I have changed my skincare routine numerous times over the years, but finally after going to a new dermatology center last fall about my eczema, I was recommended a new routine. My skin has been smooth and happy ever since! Everyone’s skin is different, so before I share the products I use, let me tell you about mine: prone to eczema flare-ups particularly during cold weather, sensitive (scents are a no for me), and combination skin (drier in the winter). I used to struggle with acne and yeast (yes, on my face, it’s a very real thing) in my teens but have been fortunate to have mostly smooth skin in my 20s (I’m now 29), with an occasional small breakout due to stress.
I went to Retief Skin Center last fall (if you go, ask for Caroline!) since the eczema on my cheeks was very bothersome. My skin was red, scaly, and extremely itchy. She recommended that I go super basic and gentle with my skincare. And this change honestly saved my skin! Here is what I use:
She recommended Cetaphil’s Daily Facial Cleanser, which she herself uses! This is a perfect face wash for anyone – not just eczema sufferers. It cleans without drying, and it takes off all my make up at the end of the day – no need to scrub with a cloth (which she recommended not doing).
She also reminded me to wear sunscreen every day (we all know how important this is!) and highly suggested that I use EltaMD’s tinted sunscreen, and I was hooked instantly. It feels lovely to apply and provides a nice light coverage. It feels moisturizing without being greasy. It’s basically a dream moisturizer and sunscreen! It’s for every kind of skin.
In between washing and sunscreen, I use Avène’s XeraCalm cream, which is something that I discovered and asked the PA about. She said yes, use it! She confirmed that they are wonderful products and even sell Avène at the skin center. This cream is specifically for atopic dermatitis and what I believe cleared the eczema from my face and body. As soon as I started using it, I was amazed at how soothed and clear my skin became! In fact, after using these three products, my skin has become essentially flawless.
Additionally, I always use an eye cream. I’m not married to Olay’s Ultimate Eye Cream, and in fact, I bought it in a pinch when I traveled to Jackson Hole and forgot to pack my eye cream! Now, I’m just using it up, although I do like it and think it works pretty well. Before that, I was enjoying Bye Bye Under Eye Brightening Cream and Clinique’s All About Eyes. I haven’t necessarily found my go-to yet, so if you have an eye cream you love, let me know!
At night, as mentioned, the Cetaphil wash removes my face makeup, but for eye makeup, I am obsessed with Klorane’s. I received a sample of this stuff once and fell in love with it! Now I buy it regularly. It smells amazing and feels gentle while removing eye makeup easily. Win-win! (I haven’t verified either of these products with a dermatologist, but I like them – especially the Klorane.)
And that’s it! My routine is simple but effective, at least for me. What is your skincare routine?
P.S. More well-being tips. Plus, check out my interview with The Plug on advice for working from home!
