A Beauty Expert Shares Her AM & PM Routines

I’ve really streamlined my routine over the past year. Today it’s simple but effective. In the morning, I alternate between a few cream cleansers. My current favourites are the Skin Rocks Cream Cleanser and the Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cleanser. Both formulas are perfect for the morning because they’re gentle and leave the skin feeling super soft. They’re also moisturising, which is brilliant after a long night's sleep (we lose the most water from our skin as we sleep). 

An essence is one of my favourite things to use in the morning. I always use it on slightly damp skin and typically reach for the REN Smooth Prep and Plump Essence. It works brilliantly to hydrate the skin and give it that juicy, plump look. Next, I go in with the Summer Fridays CC Me Serum – a fantastic antioxidant serum which protects the skin from daily aggressors like pollution and t immediately gives my skin some serious glow. 

I prefer a light, moisturising SPF – my go-to is the Beauty Pie Featherlight SPF 50. It’s a recent discovery and feels weightless on the skin. Plus, it doesn’t leave a white cast and layers brilliantly under make-up. I have oily/combination skin, so I find this is plenty during the day, but during the winter or if I feel my skin needs it, I’ll layer a separate moisturiser under my SPF. 

A morning shower is key. I recently got sent the Naturium Glow-Getter Multi Oil Body Wash which I’ve loved using as it helps nourish my skin as it cleanses – ideal for those who often skip moisturising after a shower or bath. Once I’m out, I use the Tatcha Forest Awakening Body Milk, which is beautifully lightweight and really hydrating. 

I also start the day with some form of movement. Whether that’s a walk around the park or a gym class, it really helps me to start the day feeling calm and centred. I find I’m able to deal with the stresses of life a lot better when I’ve carved out that time for myself.

My evening routine is short. I find that’s the best way for me to be consistent when I just want to get into bed. I’ll always double cleanse at night, as I’m usually wearing make-up and SPF. For my first cleanse, nothing beats the Muihood Good Chi Cleansing Balm; it makes make-up removal a breeze and it’s really softening – a little goes a long way. I apply a small amount to the skin then emulsify it with water. This is my favourite part as it turns into a creamy milk. I then remove it using a warm, damp flannel before following up with the same cleanser I use in the morning. 

The Skin Rocks Retinoid 2 serum is a game changer. I may be slightly biased because I work for the brand, but this product has become a staple in my routine. It negates the need for any other serum in my evening routine. My skin is the best it’s ever been, and it is hands down because of this. It prevents congestion and breakouts while also improving the look of my hyperpigmentation – all with zero irritation. 

At night I focus on hydration. On my non-retinoid evenings, I’ll use a hydrating serum such as the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum. This helps you wake up to radiant, smoother-looking skin over time. I finish with a small amount of the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream as it’s quite rich. I’m obsessed with the texture and the scent.

Finally, I read to wind down. I’ll always try to get through a couple of pages of whatever book I have on the go to help me switch off. To help, I’ll spritz the Feather & Down Sweet Dreams Pillow Spray as I find it super relaxing and always notice that I sleep better when I use it. 

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