Complexion Complex

I often get compliments on my complexion. That and my hair are the two biggest I receive. (That is, when I actually do something with my hair.) I have honestly had family (immediate & extended) mention frequently how "perfect" it is and how I "got so lucky." People I don't know, whether it be patients or people I pass in public, often rave about it, too. I am always taken aback by these compliments, because to me, it's unexpected and it's the skin I'm used to.

So, I thought I'd share my "secrets".

Obviously the first is that I was born with this skin. It was a gift from God with my parents' genes mixing perfectly.

Secondly, I avoid the sun like the plague! I have fair skin, so I burn easily. (Literally, if I'm in the sun for more than about 15 minutes, I get sun poisoning!) I am freckled, so it's obvious that I've spent some time in the sun when I was younger, but not now. (I played soccer for about 12 years, so I couldn't really avoid the sun then.)

If I know I'm going to be outside, I slather on high SPF face sunscreen. I also use a moisturizer (on occasion) with SPF in it.

Next, I love my products and always have. From the time I was a preteen until I was about 21, I washed at least daily with an exfoliating salicylic acid wash (such as Clean & Clear). I also used an astringent daily. These were done at separate times (one in the am, one in the pm). At that time I also moisturizer daily.

When I got a little older (around 21/22), I started using different products. I switched to a mineral makeup with SPF in it. I also started using "fancier" products. First it was Philosophy. At first it was just their simple face wash, which is very mild. I then added to that their Microdelivery Peel, which is a Vitamin-based peel. I did this once to twice a month. At about 23 I switched to Clinique's 1-2-3 line (liquid facial soap, astringent, moisturizer). This was something I would usually do daily and on occasion (based on ick-factor), twice daily. I also switched from Philosophy's Micrdelivery Peel to their Oxygen Mask. This is a milder monthly peel. At 26, I still do that Oxygen Mask, but have switched to Origin products. I love that they are more natural and also smell beautiful. I use their daily face wash with a soft round manual brush. Then I have a exfoliator that I do every other day. Also, I still use my mineral makeup (BareMinerals).

I did switch products a lot, but more for personal reasons, not because the products didn't work anymore. I feel that skin changes and skin needs change as we age, so it's best to adjust based on that. I am a huge Origins fan right now because it's affordable, fairly natural, and very mild.

My complexion is good, sure. But it doesn't come easy. I just hope it stays good as I age. I hope that all this attention will mean smoother/very gradual aging.




Questions? Ask. Ideas? Mention. I love to share my opinion.