Night Time Skin Care Routine

Well folks, here it is; my very first post. This is my nightly routine for makeup removal as well as skin care. My skin is dry to combination but very very acne prone. My main issues right now are acne scars and hyper-pigmentation so this routine revolves around treating both these issues. 

Step 1: Makeup removal
The dreaded time of day when you know that waterproof mascara will be a pain to scrub off your delicate little eyes. Have no fear, my latest love in removing both eye and face makeup is none other than the much raved about Bioderma (approx. $7). Now I live in Canada, and having known about this product for ages (but it being universally unavailable here), you can imagine my rapid heart palpitations in the middle of the Shoppers Drug Mart aisle when I saw this tiny bottle. It is by far the best makeup remover I've ever owned. Totally soft, easy to use, and leaves skin feeling soft and clean. A little goes a long way with this product so just dab a few drops on a cotton pad and you're good to go.It's definitely a holy grail item. 

Step 2: Cleanse
This product is recent in my collection but has easily made its way to my favourites list. I was told it was dermatologist recommended so naturally I took a stab at it. The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (approx. $20) is great for those with sensitive skin. I've had this for about three weeks and I can already notice a slight improvement in my skin (particularly my acne scars). Although I should warn you, this does not remove makeup as it claims. Always always always remove your makeup before using this cleanser or I'd suggest cleansing maybe two or three times to get all the gunk out. A couple tips for this step: cleanse for about 60 seconds. This sounds like nothing but while washing your face, 10 seconds flies by. It is important however, because it ensures that the cleanser has completely worked into the skin. Listen to some music while you cleanse and it'll pass by in no time. Another tip: adding some epsom salt to this cleanser makes a great exfoliator as well as acne fighter. Just sprinkle a little into the palm of your hand and cleanse as usual. I try to do this once or twice a week. 

Step 3: Tone
Clinique's Clarifying Lotion (approx. $16-27) is part of their 3-step skincare recommendation. Not much to this part, just put some on a cotton pad and drag over the skin. It's very cooling and non-drying, and since I pair with a gentle cleanser the gentle exfoliation is appreciated.

Step 4: Treat
This step is optional for me. I use Sudocrem which, yes, is baby butt cream intended for rashes but I swear to you that it works. This stuff has faded my acne scars, shortened the life span of zits, evened out my skin tone and reduced redness. Apply this sparingly to problem areas and let it sink into the skin (you may look like a ghost but it's worth it). If your skin dries easily I'd suggest using this as a spot treatment only as it can be quite drying. Holy grail item. Also, the tub practically lasts forever so it's really a cost-efficient way to treat acne as well as scarring (although I can't remember it's retail price, it is a drugstore product). Note: you will smell like a baby's bottom for a minute or two.

Step 5: Moisturize
Always start with the eyes, if you're crazed enough about your undereye area to have a moisturizer dedicated to that one spot (like I am). No.7 Lifting & Firming Eye Cream (approx. $20) is the one I'm currently using. This one is pricey for my liking, but it does the job. Dot along the undereye area and pat in with your ring finger.Next up is my all over face moisturizer. It's a very underdog brand because well even I hadn't heard of it. The Bee By the Sea's Sea Buckthorn and Honey Face Cream (approx. $30) has been wondrous for me. I know, the price is up there but for skin care I'm usually willing to splurge. I'm no expert but the ingredients in this moisturizer are virtually all natural. It has a light honey scent and smooths into the skin beautifully. Applying this at night makes my skin radiant in the morning; it reduces redness and calms any zits that may have shown up while you slept. Another holy grail. 

Thanks for tuning in. Feel free to comment or send me a message with any of your personal experience with these products or any others! What are your holy grail products?

Please Note: Any prices listed are based off the individual store I bought the products and prices will vary depending on the country you live in.