I think this would be a good time to reveal the skincare that I’m currently using. But just keep in mind that I buy more skincare than other people, for two reasons: a) research, especially on all those ‘cult’ products; and b) knowledge — when you know more you use more.
The monsoon has been especially bad for my skin. It became oily, bumpy, and broke out around my jaw and forehead. I was determined not to visit a dermatologist and decided to heal my skin on my own. First, I decided to start double cleansing in the evenings. Because we live surrounded by so much dirt and pollution this step is essential. I used two non-drying cleansers - Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Cleansing Oil, and then the Oskia Renaissance cleansing gel. The aim is to deep clean without stripping the skin. You can use an oil and a foam, or two oils, or an oil and a balm. I have to say that the Oskia cleanser is really not worth the hype — it leaves a film behind and stings the eyes.
I’m just using it because it’s a decent second cleanser. Will I repurchase it? No.
Then, I added some acids (AHAs and BHAs). These exfoliate and unclog pores without being abrasive or irritating acne. In fact, they help dry breakouts and prevent new ones from coming. So I have two in my cabinet at the moment. There’s Pixi Glow Tonic with a measly 5% glycolic acid, which is really a wonderful toner that I use night and day. And then there is Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads Extra Strength that comes with salicylic, glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids. I use these thrice a week at night. I cut each pre-soaked pad into half (instead of using one whole pad) because it contains enough liquid, and rub all over my face. This has really helped in smoothing the texture of my skin, reducing blackheads and breakouts. Of course, with acids you have to wear sunscreen every single day.
Finally, I wanted good serums that would brighten my skin, not leave it oily, and yet heal some blemishes left behind by breakouts. So I revisited the Zelens Power D, a vitamin D serum that was lying unused in the corner of my cabinet. Vitamin D is extremely soothing and it heals scars, reduces pigmentation, irritation and inflammation. So I apply it on nights after using the Extra Strength Peel Pads. There’s also the Dr Dennis Gross Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Solution that I use on the other nights to even out my skin tone. During the day, I’m using the Serumtologie C Serum 22, which contains a whopping 22% vitamin C, 5% hyaluronic acid and 1% vitamin E. It is by far the best vitamin C serum I have used, because of the high concentration of active ingredients, in a texture that is not drying at all. It costs only $34 plus $12 for shipping to India. This combination has made my skin very clear and smooth.
Lastly, there are the masks. Because I was sent a couple and I also bought two from Cult beauty (research, remember?), I have become the queen of double masking. I like to use a stripping or clearing mask before using a hydrating one. My favourite to clear the skin is the Dior One Minute Mask, which really cleans out the pores, leaving the skin primed for mask number two.
I’ve been using Purearth’s soon-to-be-launched Mitti, a mask made with bentonite clay, raw honey and oils such as rosehip and tamanu. It never dries out, and over time, leaves your skin looking very clear. I will purchase another one of these. Then there is the super-hyped Farmacy Honey Potion, which is good, but not amazing. I will not be repurchasing it.
But more than skincare, I’m also eating very healthy. I pop a probiotic every night and eat a salad with every meal, especially with leafy greens. If I had to recommend three things out of my entire routine I would say first, go for double cleansing, secondly, get a strong peel pad or acid toner (to use thrice a week), and finally, use a vitamin C serum.
A fortnightly column to remind you about all things skin deep
