My evening skincare routine
Following on from my previous post documenting my morning skincare routine, here is my slightly more elaborate night-time regimen. Even though I’m usually wrecked by the end of the day, I try, if possible, to dedicate 5 minutes to my skin before going to bed – it’s a soothing, relaxing process and it makes all the difference to my complexion the next day. (It doesn’t always happen though, I’ll be honest – some nights I’m just too tired!) The key thing is to find products that you love; I find that if I enjoy using the products then I am much more likely to stick with the routine. Otherwise, my good intentions fall by the wayside.
STEP 1 – PRE-CLEANSE
This step is the most recent addition to my skincare routine and while it might sound excessive I do feel that it adds value. The function of my pre-cleanse depends on the needs of the day: if my skin feels dry or dull, then I will use a nourishing oil such as (1) below; if my skin feels clogged then I will use a very gentle exfoliator (2); or if I’m wearing make-up, including eye make-up, I’ll use a micellar water to remove the bulk of product before doing my proper cleanse (3)(4).
- Úna Brennan Superfacialist Neroli Lift & Hydrate Facial Oil (€19.99 for 30ml)
- Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant (€46.84 for 75g)
- La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution (€15.99 for 200ml)
- Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water (€6.29 for 400ml)
STEP 2 – CLEANSE
My skin tends to be very dry so I like to use a cleansing balm. My choice below is a beauty industry favourite and it’s easy to see why; it feels very nourishing and has a beautiful texture and fragrance, but most importantly is a gentle and effective cleanser. Dab the product directly onto the face, massage well into the skin, emulsify with warm water and remove using a warm flannel. It can also be used as a face mask (leave for 10 minutes) or a balm for very dry skin e.g. elbows.
- Emma Hardie Amazing Face Natural Lift & Sculpt Moringa Cleansing Balm (€51.48 for 100ml / €70.07 for 200g)*
STEP 3 – ACID TONE
The word ‘toner’ used to be a byword for ‘strip your skin of it’s natural oil until it’s red raw’. However, toners have come on a long way in recent years, and thanks to the sound advice of skincare expert Caroline Hirons, they have become a staple part of my routine. It’s important to find an acid toner that suits your complexion. I’m lucky in that my skin rarely gets spots or congestion but it is very dehydrated and sensitive; hence, the purpose of my toner is to gently resurface the skin. I use First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, which contain a blend of lactic and glycolic acids which are extremely gentle, yet they noticeably improve both clarity and smoothness. They do not aggravate my skin in any way but can cause a mild tingle. They are suitable for everyday use but twice a week is sufficient for me. Take care though, if you are using an acid toner it is essential that you wear a high SPF every day.
- First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads (€31.46 for 60 pads)*
STEP 4 – SERUM
I don’t use an eye cream at night; instead, I jump straight to serums. (Read my morning routine for more information on my eye-cream of choice). I gravitate towards serums that contain hyaluronic acid as I find them very hydrating. I’ll have a comprehensive review of my most-used HA serums coming later in the month but my current choice is listed below. Apply the prescribed amount the the centre of the face first and blend outwards and down the neck.
- Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum (€43 for 30ml)
STEP 5 – OIL (OPTIONAL)
My skin was particularly dry this Winter so the application of a few drops of oil post-serum proved a very effective night-time treatment for my skin. I like to use rosehip oil as it is packed with omegas. Your face may feel a little greasy going to bed but the payoff is super-soft skin when you wake up. Apply 2-3 drops to your palm, rub your palms together to warm it up and then press your palms gently to the face, paying particular attention to the drier areas.
- Trilogy Rosehip Oil (19.95 for 20ml)
STEP 6 – MOISTURISER
Nearly there. My favourite moisturising cream happens to be the biggest seller at The Body Shop, which doesn’t surprise me in the least. It soothes and smooths, and feels like a warm cozy comfort blanket on my skin. I absolutely love it and probably apply way too much of it! Again, apply to the face and neck using gentle circular motions.
- The Body Shop Vitamin E Nourishing Night Cream (€16.95 for 50ml)
STEP 7 – LIP TREATMENT
Wrapping up my skincare routine for the night, I apply a good coat of Nuxe Rêve de Miel. To me it doesn’t smell particularly nice or taste particularly nice, but it is the best lip treatment I’ve ever tried and won’t be going anywhere.
- Nuxe Rêve de Miel (€11.50 for 15ml)
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*I purchase these products from FeelUnique.com; however, a word of warning, my most recent purchase was accompanied by a €15 customs and excise duties upon delivery.
All reviews on stylebycaroline.ie are based on my own personal experiences and opinions. I have not been paid to endorse any of the featured items. If you have specific skincare concerns or queries, please refer to your GP or dermatologist. All prices and links are correct at time of publication.