The seasons have changed (anyone else excited about that :), and so has my skin. So I needed to change up my routine. I had been using Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleanser during the summer, but for more cool and dry weather, it was a bit too harsh. Plus my skin was looking dull and tired from all of the stress in my life. And as an aspiring dermatologist, I cannot have that. My routine is a bit more extensive and pricey than most, but it has made a difference.
Morning:
For starters, I either use the Philosophy Purity Cleanser or the Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash. The Purity Cleanser is very gentle but also effective at removing dirt, oil and makeup. The consistency is almost like a lotion, so it keeps you skin soft but does not make it greasy. The Microdelivery wash is a very basic exfoliator and is great for eczema and sensitive skin.
After cleansing, I combine Philosophy's When Hope Is Not Enough with their Vitamin C Turbo Boost. This helps protect skin from free radical attack and just makes skin look so much brighter. By itself, the serum is very moisturizing and the perfect consitency. It is not too runny nor is it too thick. Adding the powder makes it more runny, but is worth it. It does burn a little, but it has not caused any irritation.
Aftwewards, I apply a little of Hope in A Jar which has to be my favorite moisturizer. It also acts as an exfoliator and improves skin's texture over time. It does smell a little odd, but it does not linger.
And of course, sunscreen with SPF 30 =)
Evening:
I use one of the cleansers mentioned above. If I feel a pimple coming on, I will use the Neutrogena Deep Cleansing Wash.
I still use When Hope is Not Enough at night, but I do not use the Turbo C powder with it.
At night, I add Help Me, which is a retinol cream perfect for sensitive skin. I have seen a huge difference in my skin. Even though I have no wrinkles on my face, this has helped my skin's clarity. My breakouts are clearing up as are acne scars. Retinol is something you have to be very careful with, even if you do not have eczema. I have had great luck with this product, but you may not. If you live near a Sephora and want to try this, do not be afraid to ask for a sample. A less expensive alternative would be the night Retinol cream for sensitive skin by RoC.
Lastly, I apply my eye cream (RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream) which is pretty good. It is gentle, and I have noticed some reduction in pesky, tiny lines around my eyes. It is also non-drying. And then I apply my Hope In a Jar.
I also use a sulfur mask once a week and keep an acne spot treatment on hand, which I apply to my forehead, nose and chin a few times a week.
If you decide to use a retinol cream, only use it at night. And be sure to apply sunscreen in the morning as it makes you skin very sensitive to the sun. SincenI have started this new routine (about a week and a half ago) I have noticed improvement. My skin looks brighter, pimples are starting to clear up as are acne scars. Also, Philosophy has a good number of sets of their skincare products if you want to try them out and save some money. Philosophy is an awesome brand, and I have had postive experience with their products. The only issue I have had was with the Microdelivery Peel that burned my skin. But I think that happened because I used too much product.