Hi Guys,

I remember doing one of these posts last year (link here), and when I read it back I thought, wow my skincare routine has evolved! I'm quite lucky in the fact that I have never had problematic skin. I would describe my skin as combination i.e. I can get an oily T-zone but nothing worth worrying about, other than that it is pretty normal. For some reason recently, my biggest concern has really been the fact that it has started to age. Probably due to the fact I have two kids under four, however also because once you hit your 20s, the production of elastin and collagen starts to reduce, and by your mid 20s you start to notice the affects of this. Well I did anyway. So here is my regime.

1. Cleanse

I never used to cleanse, apart from splashing water across my face. However I have tried various cleansers over the last year. Currently I am using Dermalogica and it's going well. I quite like changing and using different cleansers just to see what's out there. One of my faves was Heaven skincare's Hydro cleansing Milk (click here for my review), however as long as it's keeping your skin clean it's good. I think next I would really like to try an oil based cleanser, like the Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil, as they are said to get the dirt out of oily areas too, as water just slides over oil.

When I wear make-up, I remove this using Garnier Simply Essentials eye make-up remover and then cleanse on top.

2. Tone

This is a step in my routine that I have played around with. It's always been one of those things I only did when I could be bothered. Again I was using Garnier Simply Essentials Cleansing Lotion. However since Christmas I have been using the cult favourite Pixi Glow Tonic. It has been almost three weeks and I have noticed a change in my skin. It does have a certain glow to it and is looking more even. I don't know if this is specifically down to the glow tonic or the fact I've been taking my skincare more seriously. Either way I'm liking it. I don't like the smell though! Think ginseng, green tea.

3. Facial Serums

Dr Botanicals Advanced Light Essence Serum is my go to (see my review here). Well, that is until my two year old emptied half the bottle on the bedroom floor! *crying face*.  It doesn't leave your skin feeling drenched but just gives it this burst of freshness. Sometimes I apply this and then moisturise on top. However sometimes when I need my skin to breathe I apply this on its own. 

I occasionally apply the Balm Balm Rose Geranium Face Balm all over my face, just before bed. I received this in my My Little Box subscription. It feels grainy when you squeeze it out of the tube but when you warm it in your palms this melts into a beautiful oil. I tend to apply this last thing before bed as it gives the skin a chance to absorb all the oil. It's not something I would apply in the day as it is very greasy in texture, but perfect for those days when you skin is feeling dry.

4. Moisturise

My moisture all comes from the Lacura range at Aldi. I use their Expert Double Effect Eye Gel and their Expert Special Care Wrinkle Smoother around the eyes, as well as their Q-10 Anti-wrinkle Day Cream over the face. I would say these have made the biggest difference in my skin. I have literally noticed the crows feet around my eyes disappear over time. And the value for money in these products is just amazing. The fact that they are award winning says it all. I love the fact the day cream also has SPF 20 in it, as exposure to sun is one of the most damaging things for skin.

1. Face Masks

I love to do a face mask once a fortnight and particularly love Tony Moly ones which I pick up from TKMaxx whenever I get a chance. I also love these B Beauty Ltd ones which are just as good and a great price (see my full review here). 

2. Exfoliation

I exfoliate twice a week and just use St Ives Fresh Skin Invigorating Apricot Scrub. It might not be anything fancy but it works for me and I have used it since I was a teenager. It's important to not over-exfoliate as it can be too excessive for the skin.