Wifeys & Gentlemen,

As we begin to slowly say goodbye to April and embrace the warmth and renewal of spring, I thought it might be nice to offer some of my tips and tricks for maintaining pretty decent skin.

Don’t worry, I’m not going to lie and tell you that “so many people have been asking for my skincare routine”!

They haven’t. At all.😂

I always find it so funny when influencers say that.

I know that (at least for some of them) it’s likely true, but for the rest of us who’ve never received a special request for this in our lives, what’s wrong with just doing it for fun and saying so!

So no, this wasn’t requested. I’m just doing it for fun! Is that cool?

Of course, this blog is focused on relationships, but many of ya’ll know I like to throw a little lifestyle in where I can. AND, having great, healthy skin is a huge part of having a great relationship with yourself. Right?

Doing an elaborate skincare routine from time to time makes me feel beautiful, relaxed and rejuvenated.

…to my Gents, please don’t feel exempt or left out! Men need good skin too. Okay?! 😉

Disclaimer: if you have unique health issues or skin conditions that require special care, make sure you’re following the instructions of your healthcare providers. I am not a professional and my skin is by no means perfect. We do okay over here.

Drink your water! (8-12 glasses a day, please)

Water has the ability to flush out toxins from the body. While drinking water alone won’t prevent more serious skin problems from occurring, it can help add nutrients to your skin which can diminish signs of dryness, pimples, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. It keeps your skin glowing, reduces stress, and can even delay signs of aging.

If you’re not a big water drinker, try getting yourself a fun bottle (32oz or more) and committing yourself to drinking certain amounts at certain times of day.

I, for example, commit to drinking 32oz each day before I allow myself to have a meal. I then try to clear at least 1 additional 32oz bottle before the day ends (if not more).

Start small and work your way up. Even 6 cups a day is better than nothing. One tip I saw if you’re new to drinking enough water is to make sure you’re drinking 1 cup of water for every cup of other liquids you like.

Ex: 20oz soda means a 20oz water either before or after.

It can also be helpful to add things like lemon, lime, or other fruit/veggies to your water. I love a good cucumber-strawberry 🥒🍓combo, myself.

Mind your business!

I know it sounds dumb, but when you worry about yourself instead of focusing on others, you’re much less stressed! Stay in your lane and focus on doing you, being you, and loving you.

Sure, shit happens! We all run into drama or challenges that steal our focus and joy. Try to remember that your skin needs you to rise above that crap!

Don’t let anyone else’s foolishness bring you down for too long.

Studies show that people who mind their business not only have wonderful skin and hair, they live up to 5 years longer ;-).

Find a cleanser

My first step when deep cleaning my skin is to wash it. When I’m in a hurry, this can be a simple as a cleansing cloth (I love the Oil of Olay wipes but have also really enjoyed the Say Yes to Coconut ones as well).

However, on days when I am taking my time, I like to dig out my best wash and really dig in.

My go to cleanser these days comes from Fresh Beauty. It is the Soy Face Cleanser and is ideal for all skin types. I like a face wash that is gentle on the skin and this one has really changed the game for me.

I pair it with my facial cleansing brush and really massage the product into my skin. I do this for around 3-5 mins depending on how I’m feeling. Yes, this brush is pretty expensive, but totally worth the splurge if you have the extra $. If not, there are PLENTY of cheaper alternatives at Target and Amazon to try out.

Make sure you’re choosing a cleanser that matches your skin type. I have dry skin so I go for products that hydrate or work for all skin types.

I also really enjoy these Oil of Olay cleansers, which are a much cheaper alternative.

Some skin needs toning/refreshing

I don’t always use a toner but when I’m in the mood, I also try to go for something gentle and hydrating. A popular option for all skin types is rosewater and/or witch hazel.

My go-to choice for toner is the Mario Badescu line. I have used their toner and their facial sprays and I really enjoy both when I’m looking for a little extra.

I find that this is a really affordable option and available at multiple outlets (Sephora, Ulta, Target, CVS).

If you’re looking to get fancy, I once received a free sample of True Botanicals toner that I really liked. It works for oily skin but is workable for those seeking hydration (just make sure you have a good moisturizer).

It costs a pretty penny though! So be warned if you get addicted.

Eye Cream Anyone?

Eye cream is life. Period.

I used to think that it was only for women of a certain age, but now that I use it regularly, I sincerely wish I would have jumped on this train a lot sooner.

Eye cream has helped keep my eyes plump and bright. It fights off the tired bags I often get underneath and makes me look a lot more “awake”, especially without make up.

My very favorite eye cream comes from…you guessed it…Oil of Olay! I especially love their hydrating cream, but have also enjoyed this one which targets wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles.

Real talk, eye cream is an investment.

Even the good drug store brands will run you around $25-30. Remember, a little bit goes a long way and it tends to last a while.

My fancier options include: (1) dr.brandt (2)FARSALI , and (3) this organic option I found on Amazon.

I don’t really think there is much difference between the “cheap” and the “fancy” stuff (aside from maybe better ingredients). So don’t break the bank. Invest in a nice one that works for you & call it a day!

Serums, Serums Everywhere

The only serum I use on a daily basis is hyaluronic acid. This stuff is the key to everything, promoting smooth and supple skin, deep hydration, and overall healing.

There are plenty of affordable options out there, and I’ve used several so I can’t say there is one I suggest more than another.

Glossier has a lot of serums that I really enjoy in general. In addition to hyaluronic acid, they also have a great vitamin-c serum that I’d suggest for a lovely glow.

I tend to be a big fan of glow serums, especially if I plan on skipping makeup for the day. It really makes your skin pop in the summer.

This step is optional and can be saved for special occasions only.

Try not to overwhelm your face with tons of products every single day. If you’re going to use a serum daily, make sure it’s gentle and it well balanced with the rest of your products.

Moisture

I am very picky about my moisturizers and can only use a select few. My skin is pretty sensitive and I hate that sticky feeling that some face moisturizers leave me with.

I have deep love for Oil of Olay face lotions and always go back to them when I’m tired of spending money. However, my absolute favorite face lotion is from IT Cosmetics! This stuff feels SO GOOD on my face and I swear by it to anyone who will listen.

The name alone is LOVE to me: Confidence in a Cream.

Also, if you’ll recall from my gratitude list, I’ve been using coconut oil to tackle my very dry skin! This product comes from the Say Yes line! 😀

It’s very important to find your moisturizer match. Even those with oily skin can find a good face lotion to use. Be picky and be patient. Just like a lover, one day you’ll find the perfect one(s). ❤

Little Extras

1. Face masks – I only use these one or two times a week, but my favorites are the ones from Neutrogena, Target, and Sephora.
2. Exfoliator – While I avoid using harsh exfoliators like St. Ives, I understand that it works well for many. I prefer softer options, which tend to be a little more expensive. My faves are: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant & Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash.
3. Sun screen – I admit I am bad at using this but am trying to get better. You don’t need to buy a standalone sunscreen, just make sure your moisturizer has a nice amount of SPF to protect from those UV rays.
4. Face Roller – pop this baby into the fridge and gentle roll across your face. Just trust me on this one. It’s amazing.

These are just some of my tips and tricks that I like to do when I feel like my skin needs a pick me up! If you’re just starting out or feeling like it’s overwhelming, pick ONE day a week that you’re going to have 30 mins of skincare. For me? I like to do this at least 2-3 times each week. Start slow and work your way up.

*Note: this post is in NO WAY sponsored and I do not make any $ if you click on the links included. I just wanted to share some of my favorites with anyone interested! Please feel free to let me know some of your faves in the comments! I’m down to try new things…sometimes…

Until next time,

Carry on Wifeys & Gents!

Love,

Be a lamb and tell your friends…this is how you have great skin! (does that rhyme?!) 🐑🐑🐑…🐑🐑🐑…🐑🐑🐑…