Since becoming a mom my self-care game and beauty regimen got put on a back burner for a little while. Now that my daughter is getting a little older and more independent, I have decided to re-invest some time into myself each day to boost my mental health – and it really makes a difference to me. I feel better, walk straighter, and am more confident. I’m not talking about spending two hours in the bathroom trying to be perfect, but just spending a few moments caring for myself really helps set me up for a better day.
Here are some new trends I have tried recently (because I can’t do what I was doing in 2005 and it still look cute). Makeup and beauty have changed so much in the last few years! I began wearing makeup and doing skincare around thirteen or fourteen years of age. At 32 I realized my skin is changing and I wanted to try some more up-to-date techniques and trends. For me, skincare is the most important. I would rather spend my money on that than makeup. But to be totally honest, I like it all. So here are some things I have tried that I really like.
1. Double cleansing
At first, I thought double cleansing was unnecessary, but after trying it I don’t know if I can go back. Double cleansing involves two products, a makeup-remover balm or cleansing balm, and then a cleanser of your choice. I tend to have oily-combination skin, and all cleansing balms are mostly made up of oils. It sounds very counterintuitive to rub oil on your face but it does an amazing job of breaking down all makeup and sunscreen. The best part is that when you wash off the cleansing balm and then use your regular cleanser, it makes your skin feel so soft and hydrated, and no more pulling or scrubbing to remove waterproof mascara. I like this cleansing balm from Ulta, but there are a lot out there to try.
2. Serums
When I was younger I stuck to the basics, but now my skin could use a little extra hydration. Hyaluronic Acid is an incredible ingredient in skincare, and I would recommend incorporating this ingredient into your routine. I believe it is beneficial for all skin types, as it draws moisture from the surrounding environment into your skin, leaving it more hydrated and smooth. I have been using this product from Laneige, but it is fragranced, so I would be sure to check for fragrance when deciding what is right for you.
3. SPF
Across the skincare community, most all experts would say that SPF is the most important step in a skincare routine. From what I have learned, not protecting our skin from the sun, no matter your skin tone, is one of the biggest causes of premature aging. It’s just a good habit to get into. I want to try a powder sunscreen but haven’t purchased one yet. Lately, I have been using Supergoop Glow Screen and I really like the slight glow it gives. In fact, most days, I just wear this as my face makeup.
4. A few key makeup products
In high school and college, I thought that if I did makeup it needed to be a full face. Now I understand that less is more. I try to do some type of brow gel, blush or bronzer, and something for my lips. This is where you get to have more fun and see what type of products you like.
I am not a professional in the beauty industry, these are just my personal recommendations for anyone looking to try something new. I want to show my daughter that caring for yourself is an important part of life, and that beauty can be a fun way to express your personal style and creativity. I have enjoyed experimenting and changing my look, but the biggest benefit is the mental health benefit of knowing that I am worth the effort to look nice.
