If you are like me, you probably have not worn any makeup in the past month either... but just because we are staying home doesn't mean we should be slacking on skincare!
I put together some of my favorite products and treatments that you can do from the comfort of your own home - all of which are clean, cruelty free, and non-toxic brands. Whether you have a Zoom conference call, virtual happy hour with friends, a FaceTime date, or if you just want to use this time to prioritize your skincare, I've got you covered.
First of all, try to keep up with a regular skincare regimen. Having some sense of normalcy will not only benefit you mentally, but you will maintain optimal skin health throughout this time. This means you should cleanse, exfoliate, tone and moisturize morning and night. [If this is new to you, don't worry - I will be going into more detail in an upcoming post ;) ]
Below I have included some of my favorite masks and skincare tools to reduce puffiness, as well as my favorite masks and exfoliants to mimic a spa-grade peel!
If your skin is feeling stressed and dry causing puffiness or increased fine lines, turn to Skyn Iceland. I first discovered Skyn Iceland because of their amazing hydro cool firming eye gels. Late nights, early mornings, travel... you name it, and these have become a staple for my skincare routine.
After looking further into the brand, I learned that they ironically target to treat skin damage caused by stress (I think we can all relate right now!) On their website you can take a skin quiz to figure out what products are best for your skin type and problem areas. I am currently loving their Hydro Cool Firming Face and Eye Gels.
The eye gels are ideal for under eye bags, circles and fine lines, while the face gels are meant for forehead wrinkles and laugh lines. For anyone who knows me personally, you know I laugh and smile a LOT, so these are a lifesaver. These are 100% vegan and free of parabens, silicones, fragrance and dye. The peptides in these gels plump, firm and tone your skin. After using these more regularly just for a couple weeks, I am already noticing a difference in my skin; there is a noticeable minimization in lines and a more toned complexion.
The best skincare tools to reduce puffiness and fine lines:
This facial sculpting tool is used along the jawline, chin, forehead and cheek to improve circulation. Rose Quartz is a crystal that helps to ease tension, so these sculpting motions relax the muscles in the face and minimize puffiness. You will notice your skin become smoother and firmer rather quickly with a regular routine! Skin Gym has detailed Gua Sha "workout" directions on their site here. (PSA: a lot of the top salons and spas in NYC have been doing Instagram Live videos for Gua Sha and other at-home facial techniques!) After cleansing, apply a facial oil or serum to your skin and then follow the motions on your face. I love to use the Youth To The People Hydrate and Glow Oil - it is loaded with natural, plant based antioxidants which contributes it's part to help brighten and firm the skin.
Jade Stone is known for purity, serenity and balance - it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for purifying properties and skin restoration for centuries. This tool helps to reduce puffiness and fine lines while rolling across the angles of your face in an upward and outward motion, massaging your favorite oil or serum into your skin. The rolling motions actually help to rid the skin of toxic build up, which is why your skin will appear brighter afterwards. There are two stones on a roller - the larger stone is for the jaw, cheeks and forehead while the smaller stone is for the eyes and mouth. Just like the Gua Sha stone, this skincare tool increases blood circulation and will give your face the lymphatic drainage massage that people have been raving about lately, all at home (for a fraction of the cost). Just cleanse and prep your skin with a facial oil of choice, mine is usually Herbivore Orchid Oil, and get rolling!
If your pores are feeling a little congested...
I try to stick to using the Herbivore Prism 20% AHA + 5% BHA Exfoliating Glow Facial weekly! When it comes to skin exfoliation, there are AHA's (alpha-hydroxy-acids) and BHA's (beta-hydroxy-acid). AHA's are derived from plant sources such as sugarcane that are water soluble, stimulate collagen and the shedding of dead skin cells, while BHA's are oil soluble acids that get down into your pores and fight bacteria.
I love this product because the blend of AHA's glycolic, lactic, tartaric and malic acids exfoliates while softening and brightening the skin. Willowbark is a BHA that is used to clarify the skin and minimize pores. Aloe Vera and Rosewater make this facial serum more versatile for various skin types since it provides natural moisture and replenishment without being too harsh.
I love the Goop Glylcolic Acid Overnight Glow Peel as an exfoliator to combat dull, dry skin. This overnight acid peel is as close to a chemical peel as you can get at home! With only clean and natural ingredients, the glycolic acid and fruit extracts from mango and banana will help you wake up with glowing skin. This product is best for those who are experienced with at-home skin treatments, and regularly getting facials. This is a quick, easy fix as you just apply it at night and wake up feeling refreshed!
Herbivore Botanicals Pink Clay Mask - This mask formula is just skin softening botanicals and clay, so it is a very gentle and natural exfoliation. The French Pink Clay used is high in Iron Oxide and Silica, which helps to rejuvenate skin. Rosehip is high in trans-retinoic acid which aids in reducing the appearance of fine lines (good ol' retinol). Chamomile Flowers are added for their naturally gentle and soothing properties, so you can relax a bit and at least pretend you are at the spa. This is the best option for those newer to skincare and at home treatments, or have sensitive skin.
Take a bath, throw in some relaxing salts, light a candle and you have your own at-home spa day!
Have you tried any of these products? Which are you most likely to try?
** I am not a dermatologist. This is how I personally take care of my skin after discussing with makeup artists and estheticians. Every body is different, therefore everyone's skincare needs are different, but this is what I have concluded from my own experiences.
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