Getting Even

Over the last year, I’ve been actively trying to find different skin care products that will help even my skin tone and lighten my acne scars. I’ve gone through dozens of serums (in addition to all the cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and masks) and these are the ones that are currently working for me. I use 2 in the morning and 2 at night before I apply my moisturizer. Check ‘em out...

These are my winners. 

This one from Klurskin (Ultra Bright Hyaluronic + Vitamin C Serum) is actually one of my first serums ever. It's perfect for everyday--I use this one in the morning after/on top of my Glossier one, but before my moisturizer. This really lightened my dark marks on my forehead and cheeks.

This Glossier Super Glow serum is super lightweight--has the same texture as water. I use this one in the morning after I cleanse, but before my Klurskin serum. Sometimes I use this at night as well. I noticed it dramatically lightened slight dark circles under my eyes. 

I bought this 111 SKIN Celestial Black Diamond contour gel/serum from Space NK and I initially got it because the salesperson said I had frown lines and that this would help, but it also helps even skin tone because of the retinol and other things in it and depuffs my eyes. I keep the applicator in the fridge, so that I can apply it to depuff my eyes. It was super expensive, but it honestly makes my face look and feel like a dream. I use it at night before I put on the Darphin face oil. 

This is more of a face oil, but I still consider it a serum. This Darphin Niaouli Aromatic Care oil is sooooo soothing. I put it on at night after the 111 SKIN serum. It feels and smells really good. I noticed it actually cleared up my skin while keeping it moisturized. It has a slight tingling/menthol-ish feeling too, which I love. 

Even though black don't crack, I still feel like I needed something more to keep my skin as vibrant as it was in my early 20s (as I approach my 30s). I think my regimen is working. My skin is getting clearer and more even-toned as I age and I think it's with great help of the wonderful skincare products I keep stumbling upon. I encourage everyone to really get in the habit of good skincare--you'll thank yourself 10 years from now.

"Misting"

So I’m literally a sucker for face sprays and this is the season where they are really needed. I’ve tried soooo many over the last year and the ones below are in my current rotation. I love "misting" myself as I like to say. They’re a quick way to not only keep your face hydrated, but they literally give a little pick-me-up during the day—they smell good, are energizing, and feel great. In the spring/summer months, I like to keep them really light and cooling. In the fall/winter, I like them to be super hydrating and soothing. Take a look at the ones I’m currently using and loving…

Caudalie Grape Water is great because it’s 100% all natural and is super light yet very hydrating. It’s perfect for sensitive skin as well and it can really cool you off in the summer and hydrated—I honestly use this all year round. The way it sprays out is very gentle too, which is nice. This brand also makes another face spray that’s even better for summer because it’s super cooling and sets makeup-I love their Beauty Elixir as well.

CocoKind Organic Rosewater Facial Toner is awesome because you can use it as a toner as well (spraying on a cotton ball then applying to face). I use this as a face spray throughout the day. It’s made of pure organic rose water and that’s it, which is wonderful. It’s smells really good and feels great. The best part is that I found it at Marshall’s for $7. This one is definitely a steal especially for the price.

The Mist by La Mer is obviously luxurious. It leaves a dewy glow to your skin and feels refreshing. However, don’t get it in your mouth when you spray because it doesn’t taste good.

Folie Apothecary Palo Santo & Peru Balsam All Purpose Mist is one of my absolute favorites. The label rubbed off because I’ve carried this around for months every single day in my tote bag or purse. The best part about this spray is that you can use it over everything from your face to your linens. It helps fade dark marks to improve and even my skin tone, which is what I always look for in skincare products and it smells awesome! I often spray it in my home and at  my desk at work. This one really provides moisture and a mood uplift.

Boscia White Charcoal Mattifying Makeup Setting Spray is great for keeping oiliness/shine under control. It can be used over or under makeup or just on bare skin. I really like using it for when I wear makeup because it keeps my face matte. I tried it without makeup too and it does keep the shine away, but I have to pat it in or it will leave white powdery specks. It feels good on my skin though and definitely helps with keeping the shine to a minimum.