It's always a good habit to take some time to assess the products that we are using on ourselves, just to gauge if it's doing anything for us at all. What's the point of layering products on top of products if it's just not working. Sometimes, it happens.
That's why I believe that having these "assessments" every 6 months is a good idea to clear our cupboards and update our routines.
I got serious about my skincare/ haircare needs about three years ago, and since then I've been through about 6 of these "assessments". While I've gotten rid of some of the products that were just not working for me, there have been some that I have stayed loyal to since, so here's presenting to you what I like to call....
*drumrolls please*
Maria's FAVOURITES, FAVOURITES, FAVOURITES (x3 for that dramatic effect)
I vividly remember the first skin-care product I was introduced to and that was the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. I remember it being nothing like the soap bars I had previously been slathering on. It was gentle (no kidding), smooth and creamy. It's what the dermatologists' insist on and it is no wonder why all the bottles brand themselves with the "Dermatologist Recommended" slogan.
Pros: Super gentle and does not have any harsh, skin stripping ingredients. Available in three different sizes which is quite useful depending on our consumption needs. It leaves the face with a lotion-like feeling after using it which is very nice. You don't really need to use a lot of it, so a typical 500ml bottle could last you longer than 6 months!
Cons: I do find that it is difficult to completely get rid or make-up, especially waterproof make-up with the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. Often times, I have to go in with a second cleanser to ensure my face is super clean.
I stumbled upon this hair tonic during one of my random online window shopping episodes. Caught by its interesting blend of ingredients, such as peppermint, centella, etc, I decided to make a one-off purchase to "just give it a try" or so I thought. It turns out it wasn't just a one-off purchase and since then I've probably bought almost 8 bottles.
Pros: Has a very calming effect overall (shout out to the peppermint and centella in the formulation). Works well in making the hair more dense which is a good sign! It has a nice texture and is very easy to use.
Cons: Personally, the scent is a tad too herbal for my preference, but that's just it.
Some call it the "fountain of youth" because when it comes to reviving the skin from fine lines, dark spots, uneven texture, or just about any skin issue, retinol comes as the ultimate rescue. I have always had this opinion that retinol is an ingredient that comes in handy when our skin ages, but that was not true. While there are different brands and different concentrations out there in the market, I prefer to use the lowest concentration from The Ordinary to reduce the risk of irritation, and it comes with squalane which is another amazing ingredient for the skin. Plus it's affordable and effective (so that's great!). Remeber to wear sunscreen if you add retinol to your routine!
Pros: Powerful and dynamic ingredient. Effective in addressing various skin concerns. Affordable.
Cons: Potential irritation, so it's important to be mindful to assess which formulation your skin tolerates best.
This cleanser is amazing, because it is one of those cleansers that is so effective in getting rid of make-up, even waterproof make-up. While the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is my go-to in the mornings and as a first-wash, this particular one is my favourite when it comes to getting rid of all the make-up.
Pros: Smooth and creamy texture. Contains a good combination of ingredients. Hydrating and doesn't make your skin feel tight. Helps to breakdown all these different layers, i.e. make-up, sunscreen, etc, and cleans the face very effectively.
Cons: Has some fragrance which doesn't really bother me since it's something I wash-off, but I tend to be more mindful of products with fragrances especially the ingredients used for that purpose just to evaluate the potential of irritation.
Stayed tune for part 2 (when it happens, perhaps 6 months later).
Cheers,
M.
*Disclaimer: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post contains affiliate links, and should you make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission out of it with no additional cost to you.
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