While something must be said for an extensive, “self-care” based skincare routine, the whole process can feel daunting. The idea of spending a large chunk of time each night on complicated and time-consuming skincare treatments seems a big ask. But there are skincare products that are ideal for these times – when you’re in a rush or can’t be bothered but still want to do right for your face. Here’s my lazy girl skincare edit.
Use a Physical Exfoliant For Visible Results
A physical exfoliant is one of my top recommendations for those who like minimal effort but visible results. Nothing offers such an instantaneous boost to the complexion as Kiehl’s Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion. It’s a highly fine-grained exfoliant that buffs off flakes or dead skin cells without feeling scratchy or irritating. If you’re feeling a bit “blah,” a quick go over with this will fake the look of a full ten-step nightly routine.
Hit the Undo Button on Your Bad Skincare Behaviour
Another amazingly quick and easy problem solver is the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask. If you’ve been neglecting your pores and allowed things to get a bit congested, this is like hitting the undo button on your bad skincare behaviour. Smear it on (the nose, chin, and forehead require more attention than the cheeks), leave it to dry, and wash it off. Pores will be noticeably cleared out and thus less visible.
A One-Step Skincare Routine
The Alpha-H Liquid Gold is an absolute godsend for evenings of exhaustion. It replaces a whole skincare routine in just one step. If you can’t face doing anything else, remove your makeup, then apply Liquid Gold over the skin on a cotton pad. It essentially works as an overnight treatment to treat any skincare ills, from dullness, to dryness, to congestion.
An Effortless Makeup Remover
Speaking of removing makeup, that can feel like the first impossible hurdle in making an effort with skincare. The Primark Microfibre Cloths are your friend. They can be used with just water to remove a full face of makeup – but add in your favourite cleanser for a rapid route to a cleansed face. They’re also inexpensive and cheerful.
Add an Oil to Your Skincare Routine
For dry skins, the Tarte Maracuja Oil is a miracle. It’s probably the most moisturising facial oil I’ve ever tried, and I’ve tried a lot. It has a thicker, balmier texture than other facial oils I’ve tried. So, it feels like it sinks into the skin and gets to work hydrating and protecting. If you put this on at night, you will look less dry by morning.
A Dry Skin Saviour
Another dry skin saviour is cult classic Weleda Skin Food. This has been in my arsenal for years, but I’ve only recently started using it on my face. It’s incredibly thick and a little greasy, but it has one of the best smells in the beauty industry and has not caused any particular pore issues. It’s also absolutely amazing under makeup, as it gives skin that sought-after, healthy, lit-from-within glow in literal seconds.
Skincare Shouldn’t Stop at the Face
Skincare shouldn’t stop at the face, though. I’ve recently been focusing on a somewhat more … private zone in preparation for the summer months. And if you, too, want to get your bikini line looking summer ready, the brand OYO has you covered. It offers a three-step routine to help treat bumps, discolouration, and ingrown hairs allowing you to feel confident swimming and sunbathing over the next few months.
