If you're anything like me, you could use a little TLC right about now. Here's an easy DIY facial that doesn't require anything more than what's already in your pantry and bathroom cabinets. So gather a few supplies, maybe pour a glass of wine, put on some relaxing music, take a deep breath and let's do this:
Using a non-drying cleanser, gently wash your face. This is a good time to give your skin a little massage, working in circles from the center of your face to the hairline. Massage not only deeply cleans your skin, but also reduces puffiness and activates glow by stimulating circulation.
If you don't have a gentle exfoliant at home, grab some brown sugar and olive oil. Sugar works great as an exfoliant because it naturally contains glycolic acid (helps resurface skin, even skin tone, and reduce wrinkles) and sugar is considered a humectant, meaning it helps your skin retain moisture. I like brown sugar best because it's not as abrasive as granulated or raw sugar. Again, massage skin in circles, but be very gentle. If you feel like you're not scrubbing hard enough, it's probably just right. Rinse.
TIP: If I'm short on time, I like to short circuit these first 2 steps by adding the brown sugar to my cleanser in the shower.
Take your sweet time in the shower. Turn the water warmer to create more steam – but not super hot, as that will dry out your skin.
Immediately after your shower or steam, apply serum or treatment. When your skin is freshly cleansed and steamed, it's in a perfect state to accept and deeply absorb your serum.
Finally, apply a moisturizer over the top of your serum to lock in the moisture and protect the outer layers of your skin.
Stay well, friends!
Carmen Kubista
Author
founder of story skin care, wife & mom