(optional) If heavy make-up was worn, this is my first cleanse to gently loosen up the make-up, SPF, and other facial oils. My go-to for a safe cleanse.
Most days I cleanse with Cetaphil using a gentle silicon exfoliation mit--there's something so satisfying about manual exfoliation for me so I still choose to do so.
I received this as a mini size and I am DESPERATE for a dupe because it costs nearly as much as my monthly light bill, BUT the retinol is SO effective on my stubborn blemishes and cystic acne--have been using for about 3 weeks now.
(optional) For spot treatment, I like to use a drying lotion (sulfur) or a benzoyl peroxide cream (not pictured). Sulfur is a little gentler on the skin, so I opt for this one most for my surface breakouts.
STEP
6
Eye Cream
burt's bees skin nourishment eye cream
I apply this eye cream at night as it's made with royal jelly which can sometimes feel greasy in some products but this is a whipped and much lighter consistency. So it's perfect for my dehydrated eyes to replenish at night.
This is one of my holy grail /trapped-on-a-desert-island products. It' not greasy, non-irritating, perfect for those who have dehydrated and sensitive skin, or just want to avoid comedogenic ingredients.
STEP
8
Moisturizer
hanalei lip treatment clear
I love this lip balm to restore my dry lips. It contains agave and grapeseed oil, along with kukui nut oil and shea butter. It's not an overnight lip mask and they actually have other colors to choose, but I like to use the clear one at night.
Did you find that you had a purging period with the retinol oil? I've heard this can be quite common when introducing retinol and it's one of the primary reasons I haven't started using it yet.
It sounds terrible but my acne was so bad I didn’t really notice. LOL! It’s mainly cystic acne and while I didn’t see an increase, I did see them heal faster around the 5-6th day with no new ones.
Oh man, the Luna Retinol oil sounds amazing! So so tempted to try this, but I'd also like to test out a mini size before committing, it's a hefty amount of $$$ to drop 😂
It’s not a rich or thick consistency but when applied it feels very moisturizing where you don’t need much product and does leave a bit of a shine, but I personally love the feeling.
I do because I want the retinol to get to my skin first then lock it in with the moisturizer! I don't know how accurate that is but it makes me feel better LOL!!
I've seen mixed uses as first/second. I think it depends on your skin type. If acne-prone or fussy skin like mine, using a hydrating cream cleanser is more appealing than oil-based as first cleanse, but you're right it's really a main/second cleanser. I've also seen those with oily skin say it's not "enough" as a main/second cleanser.
Oh geez...I've always wanted to try the Sunday Riley oil and you're convincing me!! Does this help with anti-aging and fine lines & wrinkles too, beyond just acne clear ups?
LOL, I'm sorry/not sorry! I can't really answer for the wrinkles because I've been so focused on my acne but the fine lines around my mouth, my complexion, and texture has improved. Some of the scarring from acne on my cheek has improved as well and retinol, in general, is a great anti-aging ingredient.