baseline

My baseline routine right now is much simpler than it was in the past. I found that after layering on so many products in the trendy multi-digit step routines sensitized my skin, and before the rise of Konmari, I resolved to have fewer items on my countertop. Therefore, all products need to be multi-tasking and be able to address my 2 primary goals: evenness and anti-aging. 

Morning routine: 

#1: Wash 

There are only 3 facial washes that I keep in rotation, depending on how my skin is "feeling". 

Cetaphil - when it is sensitive, irritated, or dry 

Aveeno Positively Radiant - with soy for brightness 

CeraVe SA - with salicylic acid and niacinamide for tighter and clearer pores 

#2: Toner 

Biologique Recherche P50 

I use PIGM 400 because it's milder, but it is a hard-working product! And a bottle lasts a long time. Some of the star ingredients are: Lactic and malic acids for exfoliation, niacinamide for brightness and oil control, and glycerin and urea for moisture 

#3 Serum 

Kiehl's Powerful Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate 

I alternatively use a vitamin C + E serum from my dermatologist, but Kiehl's version also has a pretty high concentration at 12.5% and also has hyaluronic acid. Again, multi-tasking for bright, even, and youthful skin. 

#4 Eye cream 

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery 

When you don't look well rested, fake it til you make it. This eye cream always helps me fake it, especially since I am prone to having puffy and dark undereyes even if I get a good long night's sleep. 

#5 SPF

Estee Lauder Crescent White Brightening BB Creme 

Rain or shine. Indoors or outdoors. I am all the way SPF all day, everyday! SPF 50++++, though I still reapply, especially if outdoors. It is lightweight, not sticky (but also not matte), and gives slight evenness without making you need make up. I also enjoy having the nifty brightening balm - a pinkish highlighting product - found in the cap. 

So far I am incredibly satisfied with this morning routine! Nothing in the lineup causes me to breakout or makes my skin sensitive or irrtated, and all of them are efficient and effective.