cruelty-free morning skincare

“Troublesome” describes my complexion. My lifestyle and internal circumstances both contribute to a bevvy of often-contradicting, stubborn skin issues. Oil and breakouts from wack hormones and excessive summer sweating. Newfound dryness and stripping from chlorine, since swimming freestyled its way into my exercise repertoire. Indents and hyperpigmentation.

Couple the concerns with the acquisition of some brands’ rather unsustainable, unattractive testing practices, and the hunt both broadens and narrows. The fewer strange chemicals used, the more botanicals, the better, in my view. I particularly avoid “fragrance/perfume/parfum/etc.” and parabens since the health implications of these are overwhelmingly disturbing. This blog has a good descriptor of why such ingredients are best shunned. All information considered, I refreshed in the past year or so my entire system of facial care, pulling out the nonsense and replacing it with gentler, safer, yet still effective ingredients.

The brands I mention here did not provide me with free product to test: I purchased and trialed everything with my own money and on my own time. Derma E happens to fit the bill for most of the necessities in my routine, but I sample other brands and maintain an open mind about my changing biology and resulting mashups in my arsenal. A writeup pertaining to my evening routine is upcoming, but for now check below for my A.M. list, in the order I use them and tips for successful application!

Note: I treat non-swim mornings differently than ones involving the pool. Consult my sidenotes for details on balancing acne control and hydration.

MORNING SKINCARE ROUTINE

1. Derma E Acne Deep Pore Cleansing Wash
2. Beautycounter #3 Balancing Facial Mist – I spritz this after midday workouts as well and use a cotton pad to wipe it off and remove skin impurities & oil.
3. Derma E Acne Blemish Control Treatment Serum
4. Derma E Ultra Hydrating Serum – I massage a tiny amount of this on swim days, after the acne serum, to combat scaliness and replenish moisture.
5. Acure Rose Argan Oil – I only use this in the daytime before swimming to act as a barrier. I splash my face with water, dry it, and massage a small squirt onto the skin before diving into the water.
6. Derma E Even Tone Brightening Day Cream SPF 15 – I pat instead of rubbing due to its thickness. Sunscreen is critical since I exercise outdoors, and is one of my utmost bits of advice when training in summertime.

What are your morning essentials? I would love to hear any tips and tricks!