5 Skincare Secrets I Swear By
Yesterday, I received a compliment on my skin. I know, I know—I’m skincare obsessed and generally have great skin, right? But you might not know that in early May, right when Beautycounter shut down unexpectedly, I had a horrible rosacea flare-up.
At the exact same time my beloved Beautycounter products were no longer available, I needed to completely rethink my skincare routine. Rosacea needs a lot of TLC, and all those active ingredients in Countertime were way too much for my current situation.
So, what’s a girl to do when what used to work beautifully no longer works? Well, she has to go back to basics. Here are five skincare secrets I live by when my skin needs a little nurturing, whether it's from a rosacea flare-up, hormonal changes, skin barrier repair, or perhaps you’re just someone with sensitive skin:
1. Double Cleansing: Double cleansing is one of the most effective, yet gentle ways to clean your skin. Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without harsh rubbing, which is perfect for sensitive skin. Follow with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities and deep clean your pores. This method maintains your skin's natural moisture balance and ensures it's thoroughly prepped to absorb the benefits of your skincare products. (Right now I’m loving Crunchi’s I am Balm followed by their Gentle Facial Bar.)
2. Bakuchiol Instead of Retinol: For a gentler, and safer, alternative to retinol, I swear by bakuchiol. This plant-based ingredient offers similar benefits to retinol, such as reducing fine lines and improving skin texture, but without the irritation and sensitivity that retinol can cause. Bakuchiol is particularly great for those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, as it provides anti-aging benefits while soothing the skin. Incorporating bakuchiol into your routine can help you achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion without the risk of redness or peeling.
3. Azelaic Acid: Azelaic acid is a powerhouse ingredient that offers multiple benefits, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce redness and inflammation, making it ideal for treating rosacea and acne. Additionally, azelaic acid can help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone by inhibiting the production of melanin. Its gentle exfoliating action helps unclog pores and prevent future breakouts, leaving your skin clear and smooth without the harshness of other treatments. (Crunchi’s Daylight and Nightlight Advanced contain both bakuchiol AND azelaic acid—a total 2-for-1 win!)
4. Clean, Oil-Based Sunscreen: Using a clean, oil-based sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin while keeping it healthy and hydrated. These sunscreens are formulated without harmful chemicals, making them perfect for sensitive skin. The oil base helps to nourish and moisturize your skin, preventing dryness and irritation often caused by traditional sunscreens. Moreover, oil-based sunscreens provide a smooth application and can enhance the skin’s natural barrier, offering effective protection against UV rays while maintaining a healthy, radiant glow. (I’m using Kari Gran’s Tinted SPF in Light.)
5. Gut Health is Skin Health: Maintaining good gut health can have a significant impact on your skin's appearance and overall health. A balanced diet rich in probiotics and fiber can help support a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can reduce inflammation and promote clearer, more radiant skin. I use Ritual’s Synbiotic+, which is a 3-in-1 pre-, pro-, and post-biotic all in one, but you can also get fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, which are excellent sources of probiotics, while fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide essential fiber. By nourishing your body from the inside out, you can achieve a glowing complexion and support your skin's natural defenses.
Product List
I am the Balm Makeup Cleansing Balm (use code ADVOCATE10)
Gentle Cleansing Bar (use code ADVOCATE10)