I don’t know about you, but my skin has become increasingly dry and dull lately (I’m now 31). So, alas, I’ve had to find a skincare routine that works for my changing skin as I age.
Skincare in your 30s can be tricky, but I’ve found a killer nighttime routine that is simple, yet effective for aging skin.
Wash with a Cream Cleanser
So, first step always is to steam and wash your face at night. Depending on your skin type, you may need to adjust this, especially if you’re drier (my skin is more combination/oily, though it has gotten drier since I turned 30). However, one of the best ways to cleanse your skin is to steam in the shower so the dirt and oils in your pores can loosen. Then the key is to use a cream-based face wash, a tip my dermatologist let me in on. I love Shiseido Clarifying Cleansing Foam. This wash has a gorgeous whipped texture, so it doesn’t strip your skin of the natural oils it needs. It’s formulated with rice germ oil which leaves your skin feeling smooth and eliminates tightness caused by dry skin. (Bonus: You only need a tiny amount and it lasts forever!)
Exfoliate Gently
We’ve all heard about the dangers of exfoliating with the wrong products, like those with harsh shells or environmentally damaging beads, but I still want to emphasize the importance of exfoliating. Whether using a mild sugar-based scrub like my favorite daily scrub, Philosophy’s Microdelivery Exfoliating Facial Wash, or just using a soft washcloth or Clarisonic or Nova brush, physical exfoliation is important to clear clogged pores. You can also simply use AHA and BHA acids to exfoliate. The Donnas also love The Ordinary’s AHA BHA Solution for an at-home peel (once per week only!).
Layer Serums
I admit it: I only just learned the importance of serums after I turned 30 (for shame!). But I cannot stress enough starting with at the very least a skin balancing and vitamin C serum as early as you can. Let me introduce you to my best friend: Perricone MD’s Vitamin C Ester serum. It smells like oranges and has a milky consistency yet dries immediately and brightens dark spots overnight like some kind of David Blaine magic. It’s truly mystifying, and I’m on my third empty bottle. It lasts me about 6 months which is a steal for its higher price. If you struggle with acne and dark spots (I have an olive complexion, so I definitely do!), I promise you this will become the one product you cannot live without.
Moisturize Like It’s Your Job
Behold! The holy grail of moisturizers! Affordable, gentle, and accessible, none-other-than the Cerave Moisturizing Cream. It comes in a HUGE jar. You can get it at any drugstore. It has no scent and is amazing for all skin types (like the enchanted pants from Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, but for your skin). It eliminates shine with its creamy, non-greasy texture. It’s formulated with a key hydration ingredient: ceramides (hence the name) which lock in your skin’s moisture barrier. I use it on my entire body, face and all. Buy it in bulk and use it forever. You’re welcome.
The Eyes Are It
Ah, the eyes. That gentle delicate baby skin that wrinkles so easily. How will we protect you? Listen up! I’ve found my 3-step process:
GenTeal Tears Lubricant Eye Drops – This is a secret no one ever tells you, but you should always be moisturizing your eyes. Since I had LASIK surgery in 2018, I’ve suffered from drier eyes, and these drops are my lifesavers! They keep my eyes moisturized while also preventing me from rubbing the gentle skin around my eyes. Win-win.
Kiehl’s Creamy Avocado Eye Treatment – Among the countless eye creams I’ve tried, this one always keeps me coming back. The texture is an unmatched cream that you gently tap around the orbital bone. It’s almost tacky which is great since it doesn’t run in wrinkles or aging eyes like more oily formulas. I swear it eliminates dark circles immediately after applying – HOW? And you only need the .5 oz. jar which lasts forever.
Eye Masks – This is not a drill! I have another secret no one ever tells you: Eye masks help prevent dark circles! Here’s how: they protect the layer of skin around your eye from drier environments which eliminates puffiness caused by water-retention and rubbing of the skin. Who knew? Here’s one I love because the contoured cups don’t put pressure on my eyeballs. We also love the Lunya brand.
Don’t forget your favorite lip balm and a silk Slip® pillowcase. Get at least 8 hours of sleep and stay hydrated, and that’s it, Donnas!
Donna + Donna 