I’ve always tried to be one of those women with a minimalistic skincare routine. Tried being the key word. When I first left London to go travelling around Europe, I had to be mindful of what liquids I was packing (I only have a carry on). I left a few products behind that I am starting to regret. I have noticed changes in my skin texture in just the last 2 weeks. It’s been a combination of increased sun exposure, a lack of hydration, and a change in some of the products I’ve been using. So if you feel like your skin is a little rough, textured, or dull, here are a few ingredients / products you can add to your routine to improve that uneven skin texture.
Chemical exfoliants
One product I regret leaving behind is one of my chemical exfoliants – my alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). This is an exfoliant that dissolves the surface layer of dead skin cells. In London, I got used to using an alternating combination of AHA and BHA. Both are chemical exfoliants – the difference between the two is that an AHA works on the surface on the skin, and a BHA works to clear the pores underneath. BHAs can improve skin texture by reducing blackheads, while AHAs target fine lines, sun damage, and remove build-up of dead skin. When I started incorporating both into my routine, I noticed my skin felt a lot softer and looked visibly smoother. If you are using both, just make sure that you alternate use and follow the recommended usage given.
My favourite BHA is actually willow bark – I talk about it here.
Retinoids
Retinoids are a powerful tool used to combat the ageing of the skin. They’re a derivative of vitamin A and they work to decrease inflammation, fine lines, break-outs, and unclog pores. Retinol and retinaldehyde are accessible over the counter, with the latter being the stronger of the two. I’ve used retinaldehyde for a longer time and prefer it, but those with sensitive skin might opt for a retinol. When it comes to smoothing out uneven skin texture, retinoids are great because they can stimulate collagen production and reduce the signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Using retinoids can give you visibly clearer, smoother, and softer skin. Keep retinoid use to your nightly routine and follow it with a sunscreen the following day due to increased sun sensitivity.
My favourite retinal to use can be found here!
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that improves both skin tone and texture. It can help to brighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and acne spots. This ingredient also works as a defence mechanism to prevent damage against environmental factors like the sun’s rays. Be sure to apply your vitamin C in your morning skincare routine for daily protection. Similarly to retinoids, this active ingredient causes increased sensitivity to the sun, so follow with a sunscreen after your moisturiser.
If you are looking for a recommendation for a vitamin C, I have a great one – Isntree’s C-Niacin Toning Ampoule. The main ingredient is sea buckthorn, which, like vitamin C, is rich in antioxidants, supports skin repair, and improves tone and texture of the skin. It also contains niacinamide and an ascorbic acid derivative. Along with these star ingredients, the serum glides on so nicely and sinks right in.
Hydration
Realising I had a dehydrated skin condition was so important for me. Since then, I’ve always tried to incorporate a hydrating toner / essence and a hydrating gel cream as a moisturiser. The more hydration I use, the more bouncy and supple my skin is. I definitely notice when my skin is not well hydrated. It feels dry, tight, and I start to develop more fine lines. Dehydration is different to dryness – if you’re unsure about what you are experiencing, this post may help. Focusing on giving your skin enough hydration (especially if you have a dehydrated skin condition, like me) will allow your skin texture to smooth out.
I have so many recommendations for great hydrating products. I’ve talked about two here. Another moisturiser that I have recently fallen in love with is the Torriden Dive-In Hyaluronic Acid Soothing Cream. This one is great for oily skin. As for a hydrating toner, you can’t go wrong with the Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water. I will never stop going on about this one.
Sunscreen
I am ashamed to admit that I left my sunscreen at home. And while there are no decent excuses, the sun had failed to show itself for quite some time in London and I thought I’d be safe in the rest of Europe, too. Sadly (but actually quite fortunate for me), it has been very consistently warm and sunny. I’ve had to pick up a sunscreen while I’m here, but the short time that I have lacked one, I’ve noticed a difference in my skin. Sun protection (whether chemical or mineral) is so important, and I will never travel without a sunscreen again. It’s all about prevention – preventing sun damage, premature ageing, and free radical damage. So if you’re hoping to avoid uneven skin texture, don’t be as dumb as me.
If you’re looking for a really good mineral sunscreen, I recommend the Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 by Versed. It’s only factor 35, but if you don’t want a thick, white-cast inducing mineral sunscreen, this will do the trick. It does have a slight tint, but it means that it will blend in nicely (especially for those of us with darker complexions).
Yours,
Kait x
Cover photo by Ike louie Natividad