hydration guide
The notion that moisture is not needed for those who deal with oily skin is as outdated as the belief Neutrogena’s orange acne cleanser will save our skin from blemishes (spoiler: it won’t).
If you suffer from oily skin, then you are well aware of the pitfalls and upsides of having such a complexion (we suffer less from wrinkles in our old age, remember that!) My number one commandment before I became a devout follower in my skincare religion was to steer clear of the moisturizer. The last thing I wanted was to apply creams and serums to look like an oil slick. However, years have passed and my skincare technique improved with time. It was inevitable as my face became dull AND oily. I knew something had to change. I am now proud to say I am reformed believer in dewy, hydrated skin.
Now, I am not here to tell you that you need these products to have good skin. You have to find a routine that works for you and a good start is by seeing your dermatologist on what they recommend. It’s a lot of trial and error but it’s totally worth it when you find something that works. This is what I have been using and have made my skin and wallet happy. Whether or not you’re on the oily side of life, you might find some products you would like to try/test out when your favorite moisturizer runs low.
If you were an advent follower of K-beauty when the HUGE boom hit a couple years back, then you most certainly have heard of COSRX and the wonders of snail mucin. While everyone and their grandparents know about the miracles of slimy snail secretion, it’s worth restating their magic for those suffering from blemishes and excessive oil. It moisturizes any dry areas that may be lacking some TLC. Mucin helps to heal and diminish acne scars and pigmentation that those little pimples might leave behind. It also increases skin cell turnover, so it helps with making sure your skin is bright and tight. This is a great product no matter your skin type because it’s light enough to sink into the skin. You definitely have to apply it consistently to witness any difference. Consistency is key, my glowy friends.
There is nothing better than coming home from a long day of work, slipping into some worn-in sweats and slathering on a face mask. We tend to gravitate towards clay masks to draw out impurities and keep the complexion shine-free, but there are many hydrating masks that are out there for us! While a good clay mask is essential to have in your cabinet, you also need one to moisturize your skin. It goes through a lot so why not pamper it? I personally like to use this mask after going through an intensive treatment such as the Aztec Clay Mask. It’s also great when your skin is a bit red or irritated during the warmer months. Rose helps kill bacteria since it’s antimicrobial and perfect for irritated skin. I have been using this sample from Fresh and I can say that I like it so far. I like to pop it in the fridge and use it to cool off on days where the heat has been especially unbearable. It’s a lightweight gel mask so you only need a little bit, hence why this small sample size has lasted me awhile. Another perk is the small pieces of roses in the mask, I think it adds an extra touch to any lounge attire.
Now, this moisturizer is not technically advertised for oily skin but it is ideal for colder months when skin suffers from the harsh, cold wind. Hyaluronic acid is amazing for all skin types (yes, even ours) and helps skin retain moisture. Imagine this. Our skin is a sponge and hyaluronic acid is the water. If you avoid any moisturizing products because your skin is oily, you’re setting your skin for disaster. Skin will become dry AND oily. Picture a dry sponge with oil all over. Pretty? Nope. I didn’t love the intensive cream right away because of the thickness of it. However! If you, like me, adore the glass skin makeup look then this is amazing to use as a moisturizer and base. You just need a small, pea-size amount to spread in short, upwards motions. It has a tacky residue that allows makeup to stick while giving a refreshed, hydrated appearance. Now, if you are just dipping your toe into hydrating products, maybe this isn’t the best one to jump into. For the first few months, try COSRX’s Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion. It’s the lighter cousin to the Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream and sinks into your skin immediately. I like both a lot, but I have been using the intensive cream a bit more for day and night, and I have been loving the results.
Do you have some ride-or-die hydration products that you cannot and will not live without? Let me know in the comments!