Ok, here we go. I am NOT a skincare professional. I offer this list with very little explanation. I don’t want to make claims that are not true. Or steer someone in the wrong direction.
These are simply the products I use every morning and evening on my own face. I have listed them in the order that I use them. (updated Feb 2023).
REMEMBER: What works for me may not work for you. Skincare is a very personal experience.
♥ Please note all opinions are 100% mine, if I do not like a product I will NOT recommend it.
FTC Disclaimer: Many of the links to products are affiliate links, which means if you use them, I may earn a small commission on your purchases. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you are struggling to find your Holy Grail sunscreen, I have an in-depth article about Sunscreen Makeup Combinations to help you.
Maggie De’s AM Skincare Routine
Cleanser:
♥ Vitamin C Serum: Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
Niacinamide Serum
Moisturizer
Facial Oil
Sunscreen
Maggie De’s PM Skincare Routine
Eye Makeup Remover
I have sensitive eyes so I am very picky about my eye makeup remover. I have tested most all of them including both drugstore and department store brands. My current favorite is L’oreal Artist Clean Artiste Waterproof and Long Wearing Eye Makeup Remover. Works great, affordable, and doesn’t burn my eyes. I don’t notice any oily residue with this one. But they do offer an oil-free version in a blue bottle if that is better for you.
Double Cleanse
Step ONE Cleansing Balm:
Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm, this is my current favorite cleansing balm. Melts better than other affordable options, takes everything off, fragrance free, doesn’t irritate my eyes, and is still affordable.
Banilla Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original – this has been my go to cleansing balm for quite a few years. I will always come back to it but I like the Good Molecule just as well. Since this is more expensive it has moved down to number 2. I see this occassionally at TJ Maxx and I aways buy it. I like the pink one best, but also enjoy the other formulas too.
Step TWO Creamy Cleanser
Step two of my double cleanse is where cleansers will strip by skin and make it feel tight. I am pickier about my step two creamy cleansers than I am about my cleansing balm. After testing over 15 creamy cleansers, here are my two favorites.
laRoche Posey TOLERIANE Hydrating Gently Facial Cleanser – I prefer this creamy cleanser to all other drugstore brands which I have tried. I think I have tried them all. This one is formulated for sensitive, dry skin and is basically the perfect creamy cleanser. At least for me.
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cleanser is my absolute favorite but it is generally too expensive for me to keep repurchasing on a regular basis. This is the most hydrating cleanser I have ever found. Not vegan. It has actual goat milk. If you see it at TJ Maxx grab it. Worth every penny.
Niacinamide Serum
RetinA for face: Tret .025% – available in USA by prescription only. No links for this one. It is prescription on in USA. I see a dermatologist for an old fashioned in-person visit for this Rx. I don’t believe a video chat is the same thing. Just my two cents.
RetinA for neck and chest: Adapaline
Night Cream: Purito Sleeping Mask
Lip Mask: elf Lip Mask or Vaseline
Occasional Products as Problem Solvers
Heal Redness and Irritation: COSRx Snail Mucin Serum
Face Shaver:
Hydroquinone for Age Spots: Pads from my MedSpa, only available in USA with a Rx.
My face at age 58
- Procedures: laser spot treatment (age spots)
- Lip Filler (Sept 2022)
- Dry Skin with texture, wrinkles, eye bags, and lots of other fun things