I might sound like a broken record but I always gotta preface any skincare posts with this: I’m still learning. I am by no means an expert when it comes to skincare. Everything I thought I knew went out the window when I switched over to a cleaner routine (thanks to my Hashimoto’s diagnosis).
I feel like I’m still learning something new every day but I will say, there are a few products I use routinely that I think are actually working. So, while I’m no pro, I’m always down to share my experience with you every step of the way.
The steps below are what I’m currently doing to take care of my skin. With post birth control hormonal acne and getting used to new products, it took me some trial & error but I’ve finally found a few essentials that I swear by. Of course, everyone’s skin is different so keep that in mind as you try new things!
My Morning Skincare Routine
Step 1. Cleanse
The Beautycounter Countercontrol Clear Pore Cleanser is hands-down one of the best things I could’ve done for my skin. This daily exfoliating cleanser removes oil, makeup, and other impurities without harsh surfactants that can strip skin of moisture.
Step 2. Toner
Not gonna lie, until a few months ago I had no idea what a toner was or did. But as soon as I found the Beautycounter Countercontrol Instant Matte Toner, I was hooked. This alcohol-free toner is designed to mattify skin, remove residual impurities, and minimize the appearance of pores without stripping moisture.
Step 3. Moisturize
The Beautycounter Countercontrol Matte Effect Gel Cream is such a must have. Mattify skin for up to eight hours with this cream-to-gel formula for oily and blemish-prone skin. This is a great option for those with hormonal acne or oily skin post-birth control.
My Evening Skincare Routine
Step 1. Makeup Remover
I always use a Beautycounter One-Step Makeup Remover Wipe to wipe away any makeup from the day before I start my cleansing routine. They’re clean and not overly fragrant or oily. I also keep a pack of these in my purse and my gym bag.
Step 2. Cleanse
This is the same cleanser I use in the morning. I like to keep one bottle in the shower and one bottle on our vanity. I also have been really into my scrubbing brush to really get in there after a day of exposure to dirt, oil and grease.
Step 3. Toner
Another great way to rid my skin of build up from throughout the day, this toner is going to be your best friend. Especially if you’ve worn your face mask all day!
Step 4. Mask (every few nights)
I don’t mask every night but when I do, I usually swap between two cult favorites. The first is my Beautycounter Counter+ Charcoal Facial Mask. I don’t know what it is about this stuff but it truly works wonders for my hormonal acne. This nutrient-rich kaolin clay mask with activated charcoal purifies and balances, absorbing excess oil and drawing out impurities. Salicylic and lactic acids aid in a gentle exfoliation, giving skin a smooth, polished look with a minimized appearance of pores.
Another favorite of mine is the First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Purifying Mask with Red Clay. I love a peel off mask and this one also works it’s magical wonders. This mask helps regulate excess sebum and decongest clogged pores while reducing the appearance of congestive pigmentation in problem areas where pimples previously formed and improve the skin’s texture – all a must for me as I deal with my post birth control hormonal acne.
Step 5. Moisturize
Every. Single. Night. If there is one thing I’ve learned since starting my cleaner skincare journey it’s the importance of a good moisturizer.
Step 6. Resurfacing Peel
Last up on the list is the Beautycounter Counter+ Overnight Resurfacing Peel. This is one of the brand’s best sellers and I now understand why. Featuring a proprietary multi-acid complex, this leave-on AHA/BHA peel improves skin texture and boosts clarity without irritation or over-drying. With glycolic, malic, and botanically derived lactic acid, the formula clears away dull surface cells, while arginine and essential fatty acids help soothe to reveal a brighter, healthier looking, renewed complexion.
PRO TIP: When I’m going through surge of hormonal acne, I’ll also apply an acne treatment in the evening. Right now, I’m loving the First Aid Beauty Pharma BHA Acne Spot Treatment Gel and the Beautycounter Countercontrol SOS Acne Spot Treatment.
