Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the countless skincare products and steps out there? You’re not alone. With the beauty industry booming and new products constantly popping up, it’s easy to get lost in the world of skincare. Today I’m sharing my personal skincare routine steps for morning and evening. If you missed part one of this series, make sure to read this post first. Then everything will make more sense.
Welcome To The World Of Skincare!
I started paying a lot more attention to skincare when I was in my 40’s. Now that I will be 54 in a few days, I feel like I have a pretty good understanding of what I need to be doing to get my less than perfect skin to look the best that it can.
This is simply what I do, and I do not claim to know everything about skincare; however, women often ask me about my skin so I like to share the skincare steps and the exact products that I use. Always check with your Dermatologist if you are unsure about a product or it’s ingredients, and I do recommend a yearly skin checkup with your doctor.
Key Ingredients In My Skincare Routine Steps:
- Retinoid : Vitamin A derivative used to treat the appearance of skin
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s): Natural acids found in foods; work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells and increase the thickness of deeper layers of skin
- Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage caused by unstable molecules such as UV and pollution
- Argireline: inhibits the formation of neurotransmitters which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; often referred to as “Botox in a bottle”.
- Moisturizers: Hyaluronic Acid, general moisturizing lotions, and castor oil
- Sunscreens
- Cleansers
- Makeup Removers
For more detail on the specifics of these ingredients, you will want to read this post first. There I also explain the differences between prescription retinoids (Tretinoin), and over the counter retinol.
What Has Changed?
Since my original skincare routine steps post, I have only slightly altered it to include a couple of things, so I will highlight those first.
Argireline Solution 10%
Argireline Solution 10% offers an advanced formula targeting dynamic forehead, “eleven eye”, and smile lines in an effective, “non-injective” way. By incorporating a high concentration of Argireline™ , this lightweight serum improves the appearance of facial areas prone to deep-set lines, resulting in smoother, more relaxed skin.
This product is a fairly recent addition to my morning skincare routine. The beauty world is all buzzing about this “botox in a bottle” topical serum for an alternative to injectable Botox. I did some research, and decided to try The Ordinary brand, because I’m familiar with their products and I trust them.
I have used Botox for several years, mainly on my forehead and occasionally around my eye area. It works beautifully….for 3 months and then it’s gone. As the price is so expensive, I decided not to get any botox and try this serum instead. I’ve been using it for about 3 months. I have not had Botox since December of 2023.
The deep lines in my forehead do seem improved. I’ve been using the Argireline in the mornings, and I’m going to start using it morning and evening since my skin is tolerating it well. I’m hoping to keep working on the fine lines around my eyes, but so far I am pleased with my results. Argireline retails for around $10 for a 30ml vial so it’s very affordable. Will I ever get Botox again? Maybe, but if I’m happy with the results with topicals I would much rather save my money!
Castor Oil
One thing I’m noticing is that keeping my skin hydrated is more and more challenging. The prescription Tretinoin that I use makes my skin even more dry, so I needed to step up my moisturizer. There are many claims going around about the numerous ailments that castor oil can help with, but I’m very skeptical of most of those claims. I do, however, love using it on my skin at night!
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid known for its moisturizing properties . You can be use it alone or with other oils as a natural alternative to store-bought moisturizers. Unlike commercial products, it contains no harmful additives and is suitable for the face and body.
This really makes a difference in my skin, and does not break my skin out; however, if you are prone to acne you might want to check with a dermatologist first as oils can worsen acne. My husband has even commented on how soft my face is. I also rub the castor oil on the backs of my hands and cuticles at night.
I recommend this brand from Amazon. Castor oil should ideally be stored in a dark glass bottle to avoid any chemicals from leaching into the oil.
Morning Skincare Routine Steps
This is the order that I apply my skincare products. I don’t think it matters that much with the serums, but I would advise the moisturizer and sunscreen be the last two products. Your moisturizer will seal everything in and the sunscreen should be applied as your last step.
Shop Morning Skincare Products
Evening Skincare Routine Steps
My favorite cleansing balm is the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm. I have tried others, but this one works the best. After this first step, you may want to do a double cleanse by following this with a gentle face cleanser. Personally, I don’t double cleanse because I like the added moisture from the cleansing balm.
I will talk about skincare devices in a bit, but this is the time I would use my Omnilux Red Light Therapy Mask...after my face is clean, but before I apply the rest of my skincare. Read more about it here.
Another application of Argireline 10% serum and my prescription retinoid only take a few minutes.
A retinoid such as Tretinoin or Retin-A is the gold standard and most clinically proven to be effective for improving skin texture; however some women can’t tolerate it. Talk to your health care provider about Tretinoin as it does come in different strengths and you can acclimate gradually for maximum benefits.
Retinaldehyde is considered the closest over-the-counter alternative to prescription tretinoin and is suitable for all skin types. It provides comparable skin renewing benefits while being less irritating, making it a suitable choice for those looking for effective yet gentle retinoid options.
Retinol is the least effective over the counter version, but is still useful if you can’t tolerate Tretinoin.
Follow up with the moisturizer of your choice. This will vary depending on your individual skincare needs. This is where I have incorporated the castor oil as my evening moisturizer. If I don’t feel that I need an oil, I usually use the Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream or the e.l.f. Holy Hyrdration.
Skincare Devices
I wrote a post about the skincare devices that I personally own and recommend. You can see it here. Like all devices, you have to be consistent and I have not been consistent with mine. My goal for 2025 is to at least use my Omnilux Red Light Therapy Mask, and My Nira. I do think there is good evidence that these can improve your skin with consistent use.
My NuFace micro current device pretty much sits unused, so I really need to take advantage of it. It gives a temporary lifted effect to the skin. My only complaint about the NuFace is that it takes a bit of time, which is why I got out of the habit of using it.
Skincare Routine Big Picture
It can be very easy to get overwhelmed with all the skincare products available and the claims that the companies make. I’m of the opinion that knowledge is power, so do your research. Learn what ingredients to look for, and how you can benefit from them.
Many high end skincare products are terribly overpriced, and are not necessarily better. Compare ingredients or just use the brands that I have recommended for you! Ultimately, you will need to cater a skincare morning and evening routine to your specific needs and concerns. Be realistic about how much time and money you are willing to spend. Consistency is so important with a skincare routine, so make sure you are implementing a plan you can stick with.
When you do see the results, you will be so glad you took the time to follow these skincare routine steps, and other women will be asking you how your skin looks so good!
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