Morning Skin Routine

Skin care is very important to me. I don't splurge on make-up but I don't mind spending on high quality skin care products.

For reference, I have sensitive, oily skin; prone to cystic acne (only during that time of the month) and whiteheads around my nose and chin.

My morning routine consists of 6 steps:

1. Cleanser - I love Paula's Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser.  This acne face wash gently removes excess oil, dead skin cells, and makeup without leaving a trace. Use it day and night to curb breakouts without dryness (my skin doesn't feel tight after I use this - which is a good sign).  This is suitable for all skin types.  And in my experience, the only facial wash that has significantly reduced my oiliness. I've had this bottle since November but I'm not even close to finishing it.  You only need a small amount for the entire face.  So the price (PhP 820) is really sulit. Bought this from a PC reseller but also available on Lazada.
2. Toner - I have tried Paula's Choice Toners but found them too drying for my skin (because I already use the cleanser).  So I went back to using my derma's Erythromycin Solution.  This, combined with the PC Cleanser, prevents cystic/hormonal acne.  Bonus: my derma's toner is more cost-effective (only PhP 580.00 and lasts me a month with 2x daily applications).
3. Anti-Aging Serum - Currently using Oz Naturals Vitamin C Serum.  I purchased this on Amazon but you can buy this from a local seller - Us Beauty Outlet for PhP 1,750.  I have tried the Obagi Professional 15% Vitamin C serum - which was the bomb - but too expensive for me to repurchase so I decided to try this.  I apply 5 drops on my face and neck. It feels so light on the skin but honestly not sure if it's doing anything special because my skin feels and looks the same. Unlike the Obagi where I had really noticeable results. So I'm so-so with this one.
4. Exfoliant - I use Paula's Choice 2% BHA Gel.  This is my 2nd bottle.  The first one lasted me and my husband (yes he uses it too!) almost 6 months.  This exfoliant removes old skin cells both on the skin’s surface and inside pores using 2% salicylic acid so if you're prone to breakouts, do try this.  I forgot how much I paid for this but considering how long it lasts, it's really worth the money.
5. Skin Lightening Treatment - I use my derma's 6% Bleaching Cream because when I get cystic acne, it leaves a mark even if I don't pick on it.  My skin is that sensitive.  This really helps lighten marks and just gives you an all over glow.  I only dot a very small amount on my face and neck so this jar lasts months.  I think this was less than PhP 1,000.
6. Sunblock - I love the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock with SPF 50.  This doesn't feel greasy at all but it does sting if you apply close to your eyes so be gentle. This is a little over PhP 500. This one I apply generously even when I'm indoors because UV rays can penetrate through your windows so better safe than sorry.

Well that's my morning skin routine.  I'm curious to know what products you use so leave a comment below and share what you love (or hate!).  

If you don't have a skin care routine yet, click here for tips on how to put together a skin care routine.