Share your skincare routines!

[fallmerees]

2 minutes ago, Mssg-exchange said:

 

Pixi's Glow Tonic 

I have that actually haha a small one cause it's expensive but... it's not strong enough for me. Plus it's just a toner... 😕 

[Mssg-exchange]

40 minutes ago, fallmerees said:

I have that actually haha a small one cause it's expensive but... it's not strong enough for me. Plus it's just a toner... 😕 

Stronger one will be Rodial's Vit C Glow Tonic 

[fallmerees]

9 minutes ago, Mssg-exchange said:

Stronger one will be Rodial's Vit C Glow Tonic 

damn so expensive... haha

[Benny Starter]

Try avene cleanance comedomed. 

[fallmerees]

7 minutes ago, Benny Starter said:

Try avene cleanance comedomed. 

is it a chemical exfoliant? 

[Benny Starter]

23 minutes ago, fallmerees said:

is it a chemical exfoliant? 

No it is not. But it helps subside acne or active pimples

[fallmerees]

3 hours ago, Benny Starter said:

No it is not. But it helps subside acne or active pimples

 

I see. I'm looking for a good chemical exfoliant haha

[Benny Starter]

11 hours ago, fallmerees said:

 

I see. I'm looking for a good chemical exfoliant haha

You can try Yeouth 30% glycolic acid from iherb. 

[fallmerees]

4 hours ago, Benny Starter said:

You can try Yeouth 30% glycolic acid from iherb. 

omgosh this looks interesting! I'll save up for this for my next online purchase. Thank you!  

[Ben S]

Reviving old thread ... but I only just found out

I'm also a skincare enthusiast ... I obtain most of my knowledge/info from youtube binge

 

I don't think my skin is allergic to fragrance ... but overall, I tend to try to stay away from fragrance or essential oils.

skincare don't have to be expensive, there are great ones with affordable price ... always on the hunt for sale/discounts

 

I have attached all my skincare hauls since last year ... I know it's too much, I'm sure I'll finish it within 2 years, gave away some as bday gift to friends (who are also into it)

 

the site I bought it from has different sale each time ... so, when the total shopping cart is around 100-120 USD, it's eligible for free delivery to Australia (usually there is discount code, which made it cost even less) ... explains why I buy often

 

PS: I bought 1 more haul last night (I have 10 USD point going to expire, and there is offer 1+1 currently on for few products I want/enjoy using) ... below is the breakdown

SUBTOTAL 123.00 USD

Coupon Discount - 18.45 USD

Point Used - 20.72 USD

SHIPPING COST Free Shipping

ORDER TOTAL 83 USD

 

Happy to chat about skincare anytime ... I'm not a licensed medical professional, so, won't give any advise, but I could possibly point out the youtube video where you can watch yourself as part of your research.

[Ben S]

On 2/10/2021 at 4:47 PM, fallmerees said:

Anyone knows any good The Ordinary's AHA/BHA alternatives. I know Inkey List is one of them.

The Ordinary's AHA/BHA  is always out of stock and resellers are selling them at really unreasonably high prices :S

 

I wanna try Paula's Choice but it's not within my budget 😅.

 

Having said that, anyone also knows any good chemical exfoliants? 

 

The ordinary AHA/BHA is not available in Australia

 

I manage to buy it from below UK site ... check it out and register your interest (I see sale 20% disc on all product rarely) ... check how much required for free delivery, etc

https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/

 

experience using it: no issue for my skin, use it 1x in 1-2 week, the tingle was only in the first 5-10 seconds when applying ... I actually can leave it for 30 mins and didn't see/feel bad side effects, no burning sensation, etc ... not advisable, I was just curious

result: I didn't see miracle but I will keep using it ... very affordable for a strong chemical exfoliant

 

few product that made me think "wow, this seems great" are:

# Illiyoon - Ceramide ATO cream - great for night moisturiser, not sure in hot/humid weather

# Cosrx - pure fit cica toner - felt calming as soon as applied, pricey, so, definitely only when there's 1/2 sale

# Cosrx - acne pimple master patch

[Ben S]

On 1/30/2020 at 10:05 PM, fallmerees said:

 

Ah I didn't steam it before using the patch. Usually the patches would work for me without even steaming my face. 

This zit was very angry and stubborn. It made my cheekbone look like it's protruding lol.

I did try steaming my face a few days later tho. I tried to use a needle but chickened out. Plus, it wasn't the acupuncture type haha. 

 

UGH acne suuuucks. T_T 

 

When to use pimple patch

https://skinlibrary.co.uk/blogs/librarian-edits/pimple-patches

 

Nowadays there is pimple patch with microneedle ... they're definitely not cheap ... which may work for cystic acne

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/acne-patches

 

 

I still have bad habit to pop pimple, make sure all 'poison' is out ... and deal with the dark pigmentation after

[fallmerees]

On 9/4/2021 at 5:51 AM, Ben S said:

Reviving old thread ... but I only just found out

I'm also a skincare enthusiast ... I obtain most of my knowledge/info from youtube binge

 

I don't think my skin is allergic to fragrance ... but overall, I tend to try to stay away from fragrance or essential oils.

skincare don't have to be expensive, there are great ones with affordable price ... always on the hunt for sale/discounts

 

I have attached all my skincare hauls since last year ... I know it's too much, I'm sure I'll finish it within 2 years, gave away some as bday gift to friends (who are also into it)

 

the site I bought it from has different sale each time ... so, when the total shopping cart is around 100-120 USD, it's eligible for free delivery to Australia (usually there is discount code, which made it cost even less) ... explains why I buy often

 

PS: I bought 1 more haul last night (I have 10 USD point going to expire, and there is offer 1+1 currently on for few products I want/enjoy using) ... below is the breakdown

SUBTOTAL 123.00 USD

Coupon Discount - 18.45 USD

Point Used - 20.72 USD

SHIPPING COST Free Shipping

ORDER TOTAL 83 USD

 

Happy to chat about skincare anytime ... I'm not a licensed medical professional, so, won't give any advise, but I could possibly point out the youtube video where you can watch yourself as part of your research.

 

 

Damn that's a lot of products! Haha wow. Which ones are your favorites and you would consider your holy grail? lol

 

I've tried some of the ones that you have like the COSRX ones that you have.

 

Btw, how do you find Wonder Black Rice toner? 

[fallmerees]

On 9/4/2021 at 6:09 AM, Ben S said:

 

The ordinary AHA/BHA is not available in Australia

 

I manage to buy it from below UK site ... check it out and register your interest (I see sale 20% disc on all product rarely) ... check how much required for free delivery, etc

https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/

 

experience using it: no issue for my skin, use it 1x in 1-2 week, the tingle was only in the first 5-10 seconds when applying ... I actually can leave it for 30 mins and didn't see/feel bad side effects, no burning sensation, etc ... not advisable, I was just curious

result: I didn't see miracle but I will keep using it ... very affordable for a strong chemical exfoliant

 

few product that made me think "wow, this seems great" are:

# Illiyoon - Ceramide ATO cream - great for night moisturiser, not sure in hot/humid weather

# Cosrx - pure fit cica toner - felt calming as soon as applied, pricey, so, definitely only when there's 1/2 sale

# Cosrx - acne pimple master patch

 

It's cheaper getting from the local sites here in SG for me lol

 

Anyway, do you know a good AHA/BHA products? And have you tried Paula's Choice?

[Ben S]

On 9/6/2021 at 1:38 AM, fallmerees said:

 

 

Damn that's a lot of products! Haha wow. Which ones are your favorites and you would consider your holy grail? lol

 

I've tried some of the ones that you have like the COSRX ones that you have.

 

Btw, how do you find Wonder Black Rice toner? 

 

I don't think I have a holy grail ... but with my limited experience, below are products which I think works well for me

 

# Cleanser:

- Cosrx - good morning low ph

- Real Barrier - Cream cleansing foam - this one is creamy, doesn't foam much, no issue for me

perhaps can try Cerave cleanser if easier to get

my point is to try a good one, so can experience how it should feel ... use it as a standard.

I don't use make up ... so, people is advised to use double cleanse method if they do (google it)

 

# First essences:

I have tried Missha (first essence AND artemissia) , Secret key, SKII ... SKII has that fermented smell, it may be best, but definitely pricey.

I bought Neogen (haul 9) and Benton fermentation essence (haul 😎 ... haven't tried

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0aTANcNN3Q

My thought that first essence helps other products after it to perform better ... not sure if it's gimmick, only if you can afford it.

 

# Toner:

- Cosrx - pure fit cica toner

- Benton - green tea toner

toner is not really a must have ... so, only if you see/find the need for one

- Cosrx - propolis synergy toner - I have it, haven't tried, but plenty reviews

haven't tried haruharu - black rice toner - plan to use during summer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTAYWlG8Yi4

 

# Serum / Essence / Ampoule:

- Snail mucin - Cosrx (advanced snail mucin) or Benton (snail bee high content essence) are ok ... main purpose is hydration

- propolis / honey - Cosrx (propolis light ampoule)

 

# Moisturiser

- Illiyoon - I have tried the cream and lotion, both are great ... I have gel type, plan to use for daytime in summer

for hot and humid countries, perhaps people will like something light

- cosrx - oil free moisturizing with birch sap ... tried it, I think it's ok

- rovectin - lotus water cream - have it, haven't tried, but plenty reviews

Edited September 6, 2021 by Ben S
add info

[Ben S]

On 9/6/2021 at 1:39 AM, fallmerees said:

 

It's cheaper getting from the local sites here in SG for me lol

 

Anyway, do you know a good AHA/BHA products? And have you tried Paula's Choice?

 

I would think so, but as you said, what to buy if sold out ... best to avoid non-official sites (definitely AVOID wish)

Paula's choice has great reviews - don't have it, haven't tried, think quite pricey ... don't plan buying it yet

 

AHA

- The ordinary - lactic acid 5% or 10% + HA ... lots of review, think would be good for hot and humid country

- The ordinary - glycolic acid 7% - strong, drying ... probably not the best, I use it for back acne and 'chicken skin'

 

BHA

- The ordinary - AHA BHA will cover this ... once every 1/2 weeks

or you can try Paula's choice

 

Retinoids and sunscreen

- Sunscreen is a must in Singapore - it's hot, humid, and strong sun ... best to avoid exfoliator if not going to wear sunscreen ... any sunscreen you don't feel lazy using it.

- Retinoids - the purpose is to hasten skin cell renewal - the ordinary has different strength and affordable retinols ... google for more info

 

since you have acne issue, if you can go to dermatologist ... check with them, usually they will prescribe tretinoin

consult any AHA/BHA or other actives (niacinamide, hyaluronic, etc) with derm too, since all can contribute/affect how your skin react

[Ben S]

this youtube channel has a discord channel (I just joined)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpCDPwWS6BE&t=336s

 

install discord and it could be good option for chat, or look for product review, etc

my discord ID is silver285

[bwf15]

Skin care routines are quite individual. Depends on skin types. Although we might have oily skin during 20-30s, the nature oil is good for the skin as we age. As long as they do not clog the pores, the oil becomes a nature barrier against aging dry skin.

 

We can keep good skin tone by adapting to our skin types. Keep it clean, sun block and moisturized. Find products suiting your skin types. Fragrance free whenever possible. Facial Cleanser/Foam, Scrub weekly, Mask weekly, Tone daily and Moisturize after Wash.

[Ben S]

Yep, I agree skincare differs between individuals ... that's why it's up to the person to try and find out what works for themselves and what issues they want to tackle (aging/wrinkle, hyperpigmentation, acne, rosacea, etc)

 

Some also prefer certain brand/product based on principle - vegan, cruelty free, etc

[tomcat]

used to be very noob with skincare, then overdid it (as noobs do)

but these days my routine is very simple, and approved by my dermatologist and aesthetician.

 

1. Sunscreen SPF130

There is actually a calculation based on your skin rating/burn time.

Basically with this SPF, I avoid UVA and UVB damage, I can see that I stopped aging.

 

2. Exfoliant

AHA/BHA - prefer chemical ones over physical. And I change up, not loyal to any brand.

 

3. Retinol

Also stopped aging from this - cell turnover is very fast, and my skin is more resilient.

The purging process though is not for the faint of heart.

 

4. Vitamin C

Only use UV-protected stabilised Vit C. It is also suspended, so it works as a moisturiser.

 

5. Facesoap

Any brand, but I go with the gentlest and always double cleanse.

My skin health is 27, I am easily a decade older than that. So these really help me stay at my best,

and to be honest, once i learnt the science of skincare, i stopped buying expensive brands.

Not that they are ineffective but just dont need to splurge on those when there are cheaper options.

 

Also, since I have the time and resources, I do put more emphasis now into aesthetic procedures.

So less money spent on skincare, but more on restorative treatments at clinics. 

[zephin]

On 11/15/2021 at 1:33 PM, tomcat said:

used to be very noob with skincare, then overdid it (as noobs do)

but these days my routine is very simple, and approved by my dermatologist and aesthetician.

 

1. Sunscreen SPF130

There is actually a calculation based on your skin rating/burn time.

Basically with this SPF, I avoid UVA and UVB damage, I can see that I stopped aging.

 

2. Exfoliant

AHA/BHA - prefer chemical ones over physical. And I change up, not loyal to any brand.

 

3. Retinol

Also stopped aging from this - cell turnover is very fast, and my skin is more resilient.

The purging process though is not for the faint of heart.

 

4. Vitamin C

Only use UV-protected stabilised Vit C. It is also suspended, so it works as a moisturiser.

 

5. Facesoap

Any brand, but I go with the gentlest and always double cleanse.

My skin health is 27, I am easily a decade older than that. So these really help me stay at my best,

and to be honest, once i learnt the science of skincare, i stopped buying expensive brands.

Not that they are ineffective but just dont need to splurge on those when there are cheaper options.

 

Also, since I have the time and resources, I do put more emphasis now into aesthetic procedures.

So less money spent on skincare, but more on restorative treatments at clinics. 

First time hearing spf 130 XD

 

For your exfoliator, are you using the once weekly exfoliant? Or the serum like that goes with other serums and before moisturizer + spf?

 

[tomcat]

On 11/15/2021 at 2:37 PM, zephin said:

First time hearing spf 130 XD

 

For your exfoliator, are you using the once weekly exfoliant? Or the serum like that goes with other serums and before moisturizer + spf?

 

Only 2 brands on the consumer market sell above SPF100. Neutrogena and SunPlay - both works.

The other questions...I dont quite understand. Can you kindly rephrase or clarify? Thank you..

[zephin]

On 11/15/2021 at 2:44 PM, tomcat said:

Only 2 brands on the consumer market sell above SPF100. Neutrogena and SunPlay - both works.

The other questions...I dont quite understand. Can you kindly rephrase or clarify? Thank you..

Ah, probably because i also don't understand the meaning of exfoliant. When talking about exfoliator, i only know about the typical face clay mask/scrubs that I use once a week. Is the exfoliant you are referring to something similar, but in chemical form? Or more like serums that you would layer in your skincare routine?

 

Sorry, I'm kinda noob and have only just recently heard about retinol as well.

[tomcat]

On 11/15/2021 at 2:49 PM, zephin said:

Ah, probably because i also don't understand the meaning of exfoliant. When talking about exfoliator, i only know about the typical face clay mask/scrubs that I use once a week. Is the exfoliant you are referring to something similar, but in chemical form? Or more like serums that you would layer in your skincare routine?

 

Sorry, I'm kinda noob and have only just recently heard about retinol as well.

Ohh.

Chemical exfoliants work differently, cos there is no physical agitation, just skin resurfacing. as the acids eating through the top most skin layer which is mosty dead cells. 

AHA/BHA products can be formulated in all types of products. Soap, Toner, Cream, Lotion etc- the mode of suspension usually decides the strength. So thicker it is, usually the stronger the acid - not always the case, but usually is. 

This is where it gets tricky. If you have never done chemical exfoliation, then you can't really tell if one product is too strong or not. So maybe start with an exfoliating toner, so the AHA/BHA content is less strong, while still delivering the effect.

Good chemical exfoliation should not leave your skin dry or red, but with a nice glow or flush. And it is good if after once or twice use, you can literally notice a physical difference in skin texture. it should be smoother, like got powder on it. over time, the skin should also be more refined and clear, and you can notice less pores, discoloration etc.

Exfoliation also ensures better absorption of skincare, because the top dead layer of skin is gone. Hope that helps!

[Mssg-exchange]

I'm using this and it's not bad 

[Ben S]

On 11/15/2021 at 4:33 PM, tomcat said:

1. Sunscreen SPF130

There is actually a calculation based on your skin rating/burn time.

Basically with this SPF, I avoid UVA and UVB damage, I can see that I stopped aging.

 

2. Exfoliant

AHA/BHA - prefer chemical ones over physical. And I change up, not loyal to any brand.

 

3. Retinol

Also stopped aging from this - cell turnover is very fast, and my skin is more resilient.

The purging process though is not for the faint of heart.

 

4. Vitamin C

Only use UV-protected stabilised Vit C. It is also suspended, so it works as a moisturiser.

 

5. Facesoap

Any brand, but I go with the gentlest and always double cleanse.

My skin health is 27, I am easily a decade older than that. So these really help me stay at my best,

and to be honest, once i learnt the science of skincare, i stopped buying expensive brands.

Not that they are ineffective but just dont need to splurge on those when there are cheaper options.

 

Also, since I have the time and resources, I do put more emphasis now into aesthetic procedures.

So less money spent on skincare, but more on restorative treatments at clinics. 

1. SPF130 ?  I thought common one is 30 or 50
the higher SPF, sometimes affect the product, how it feels, layers, etc (usually thicker or tacky)

I admit that I was lazy with sunscreen ... but now I found few that feels ok, and start using it (like around 10-11 AM) but lazy to re-apply, lol

 

2. Agree

depends on skin type ... there are different type of AHA / BHA

the pricey one, but has tons of positive feedback = Paula's Choice 2% BHA ... I personally haven't tried, I go for lower, lol

I'm using The ordinary lactic acid + HA , 2-3x per week, occasionally do the red liquid (30% AHA, 2% AHA)

 

3. start low (0.2%) if need be ... see how skin react ... purging often happen (not in my case, luckily)

can go to dermatologist if require stronger retinoid

 

4. Vit C is not big for me ... there's saying CoQ10 (inkey list) is also a good antioxidant, I've tried, not bad.

maybe I'll change mind in future, if I found a good Vit C

 

5. Cleanser

double cleanse may not be necessary if not wearing make up or really thick sunscreen, no issue if people do.

cleansing actually do most damage for skin barrier , so, good cleanser is must ... once you tried a good one, you'll feel the difference with bad one.

I'm using several Korean cleanser (try here and there), CosRX good morning cleanser is good, heard Haruharu black rice is good.
I'm interested to try new Cerave Oil cleanser or Cerave cream to foam ... despite name oil cleanser, it's not for 1st cleanse, it's locally accessible for me in Aus.

 

I still wear Moisturiser, to lock in and keep hydration on skin ... usually gel type for daytime, since it's' thin ... and cream thicker one for night.

sometimes sunscreen can act as one

 

note: all above is just my understanding and opinion, I'm not certified to give advise 

[Ben S]

On 11/15/2021 at 10:28 PM, Mssg-exchange said:

I'm using this and it's not bad 

 

I heard sunday riley has some good products .... but it doesn't justify for the price for me, way outside my budget, lol

[Ben S]

On 11/15/2021 at 5:49 PM, zephin said:

Ah, probably because i also don't understand the meaning of exfoliant. When talking about exfoliator, i only know about the typical face clay mask/scrubs that I use once a week. Is the exfoliant you are referring to something similar, but in chemical form? Or more like serums that you would layer in your skincare routine?

 

Sorry, I'm kinda noob and have only just recently heard about retinol as well.

there are different ways for exfoliation

# apply then wash off = mask, or scrub (avoid st ives) , or strong one (ordinary 30% aha, 2% bha) 

 

# apply and leave on = mandelic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, etc ... they differ in molecule size, smaller ones can penetrate deeper into skin ... so, go for bigger for sensitive skin, e.g mandelic acid.

above are usually in serum/liquid form, I think toner would belong in leave on as well

toner can be strong too, e.g: the ordinary glycolic toner, I use for body to treat KP (chicken skin).

 

definitely should not over exfoliate ... some people can handle using multiple exfoliator in 1 routine, only if you think you can

 

in my case, I take turn, 1 night I use retinol, other 1 night I use exfoliation.

I always have something to add hydration into my skin, e.g: snail mucin, or hyaluronic acid

then end with moisturiser and/or sunscreen

Edited November 16, 2021 by Ben S
add info

[steelwings]

Bio-VLift Face Lifting Cream

This works for me!

[tomcat]

On 11/16/2021 at 9:38 AM, Ben S said:

1. SPF130 ?  I thought common one is 30 or 50. the higher SPF, sometimes affect the product, how it feels, layers, etc (usually thicker or tacky). 

 

not really, depends on what the formulation is, whether it is lotion, cream or milk type. I go for thinnest, since it is lightest with no white cast. 

 

sun protection is your first line of defence. no point doing extreme skincare if you damage it daily. even at home, you should use esp if you sit near a window. look into the formula. higher SPF does not mean higher protection, but the amount of time needed between burn time and reapplication. 

 

i can honestly say, i dont look older than 30s. even though i am approaching 40 - thanks to diligent sunscreen. even all the rest can take away, but not my sunscreen lol. 

 

as for the actives (retinol, vit c etc) these are all spaced out aka cannot use together so my routine is really really simple. basically, 3 steps only. 

 

over time, the skin also produces its own skin barrier moisture. so once I clean up at night, in the morning I just rinse with cool water, the skin barrier is still supple with its natural oils. I protect my own oils at all cost, and it is clean, non comedogenic and customised. 

 

the body is amazing once it has reach optimisation stage. but learning what works with my body took years of deep understanding and science. if you can afford it, it also helps to have a dermatologist. they can really guide and navigate your skin health journey especially as you age. 

 

hope that helps. 

[Ben S]

On 11/16/2021 at 4:51 PM, tomcat said:

sun protection is your first line of defence. no point doing extreme skincare if you damage it daily. even at home, you should use esp if you sit near a window. look into the formula. higher SPF does not mean higher protection, but the amount of time needed between burn time and reapplication. 

 

yup, I agree

 

I started late in both skincare and sunscreen ... ah well, better late than never.

Also, adjust expectation ... skincare is not instant, so, it's a lifelong routine 

[tomcat]

On 11/17/2021 at 7:48 AM, Ben S said:

yup, I agree

 

I started late in both skincare and sunscreen ... ah well, better late than never.

Also, adjust expectation ... skincare is not instant, so, it's a lifelong routine 

sunscreen is essential, esp in Asia and sourthern hemisphere.

[yy02]

Is it just me, or anyone feels that their face is especially oily few hours after putting on sunscreen?

[sayfirst]

On 7/13/2022 at 9:57 PM, yy02 said:

Is it just me, or anyone feels that their face is especially oily few hours after putting on sunscreen?

 

I use a sunscreen bought from pharmacy stores and my face does get oily a few hours after applying (maybe it's also affected by my T-zone?).

 

In the late afternoon then I usually wipe off any oiliness coz by then the UV rays are not as strong haha.

 

Guessing a mineral vs chemical sunscreen might affect the texture as well.