Current Skincare Basics

Since coming back from America, my skin has decided to throw a little tantrum (not that I can blame it) at the change in environment and climate. I've had to completely overhaul my skincare routine in an attempt to pacify my skin as it throws all sorts of problems at me - cystic acne breakouts and increased sensitivity to name just a few. The sun and simplified skincare routine in America seemed to work wonders for my skin, but perhaps the reintroduction of my whole skincare stash proved a little too much too soon and so I've been working on a new skincare routine which is a lot simpler and more compact product-wise.

With my Origins Zero Oil cleanser on its last legs, I decided to try a new cleanser from Aesop. The Fabulous Face Cleanser is actually targeted at slightly dry, sensitive skin but its olive oil base seems to work in soothing my irritated skin, leaving it feeling baby soft without a hint of dryness or tightness that some cleansers can leave. It doesn't really foam up, which I'm not used to, but it does clean away all traces of dirt and oil. I haven't been using this for terribly long yet, but I do have high hopes for this cleanser. If anything, it looks super pretty chilling in its pharmacy style glass bottle by my sink.

Toner-wise, I've reverted back to LUSH Tea Tree Water which I strayed away from over the past few months. It's packed with tea tree and this usually is a wonder for me in sorting out troubled, blemished skin so I'm hoping it doesn't let me down this time. I spray a good 8-10 sprays on a cotton pad, swipe all over my face and get on with the rest of my routine. I have been alternating this with an exfoliating toner, but that's a whole other post in itself...

I'm trying to limit the different numbers of serums and treatments that I'm using, at least until my skin is back in check, but I've been trying out HealGel Face* for a good few weeks now and it's something that I'm thoroughly enjoying. I use this both morning and evening after toning and before moisturiser. It's essentially an anti-ageing treatment, but it also claims to help with uneven skin tone which is right up my street. It's a gel-cream consistency and sinks into my skin beautifully, leaving it feeling so soft and hydrated.

In my new simplified skincare routine, I wanted a moisturiser that wasn't too heavy or rich, but equally I need something that does pack a bit of a moisture punch now that we're getting into the colder months. Origins GinZing Moisturiser does just that. Again, it's a gel-cream consistency which my oily skin just loves. It makes for the perfect base to apply my makeup as it does sink in quickly, but I'm not totally sold on the energy boosting claims. It's still early days with this one, so I'll be sure to report back...

Of course, alongside this skincare arsenal I've been trying out spot treatments like nobody's business and I'm still struggling to find something that lives up to its claims.

What do you do when your skin throws a tantrum? Do you have any go-to products? Help me!