The AM Routine

You may have to experiment a bit to find the routine that's just right for you - but once you pin it down - stick to it. It can sometimes take a while to see results, but if you're consistant you'll see them sooner. So without further ado, here is my morning routine:

1. Cleanse

Most mornings I use the Fresh Soy Cleanser, it's silky and gentle but it works. I also exfoliate a few mornings a week (about three), I use the Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash  by Philosophy. When choosing an exfoliant be careful not to pick one too rough - if the grains are too jagged it can irritate rather than smooth. Also, if your skin is really dry (and if you wash your face every night) then you can even just rinse your face with water a few mornings a week instead of using cleanser.

2. Tone

I love the Caudalie Beauty Elixer - it's like a mini spa moment.

3. Treat

I recently discovered Hyaluronic Acid - it's able to hold more water than any other natural substance, and it's like a glass of water for your face. I use it in a gel and it also increases absorption of any other serums you may use. Next I use a peptide serum, Philosophy Miracle Worker  is really nice and Olay also carries some good options. I follow the peptides with a vitamin C serum, I especially like Kiehls' Line Reducing Concentrate and Ole Henriksen Truth Serum . Vitamin C is great for preventing and treating fine lines as well as protecting your skin from pollution.

Tip: When applying serums go thinest to thickest so that they can be absorbed on top of one another. Your order may differ from mine.  

4. Eye Creams

Yes, you need an eye cream. The skin around your eyes is much more fragile than on the rest of your face and needs special attention. Kiehls Cryste Marine Firming Eye Treatment is very nice as is Philosophy's.

5. Self Tanners

If you are going to use a self tanner on your face, this is the time, after your serums and before your moisturizer. Kiehls makes a great one, as does Clarins .

6. Moisturize & Protect

Now that you are firmed and tanned and smoothed - top it all off with a moisturizer that contains SPF. Use one that is as heavy or as lightweight as your skin needs. I have been plesantly suprised by the Sephora Collection Age Defy Moisture Cream SPF 15 (they also have a great eye roller), as well as by this Clinique option.

This all might sound like a lot, but after a few mornings it becomes routine and really only takes about 5 minutes to get though. If you have the time, giving you face a mini massage in the mornings is another way to boost collagen and circulation plus it can be a nice treat.

Tip: When you apply your face creams remember to use an upward motion, just don't pull your skin down - gravity does that enough as it is. :-) Also, don't forget about your neck and décolletage, treat them as you do your face.

Phew, next Tuesday I'll go through the night time routine and add a note about some of my favorite masks here and there. Happy primping!