Everything I use daily as a licensed esthetician
Before I dive into my routine, I wanted to share some background on why I do what I do.
After I turned 33, my skin suddenly became extremely dry. I also developed perioral dermatitis-a condition that looks like acne but typically itches and shows up around the nose and mouth. It took me six months just to figure out what was going on. 😑
Once I finally got a diagnosis, I spent another three months researching how to treat it. While there isn’t a known exact cause for perioral dermatitis, I discovered that keeping my skin consistently hydrated made a huge difference in both appearance and comfort. I’m talking hydrating cleanser(prequel), lotion and Aquaphor!
Now, as a 37-year-old licensed esthetician, here’s my current morning and night skincare routine:
🌄Morning (AM):
💠 I rinse my face with hot water and gently wipe it with a clean washcloth.
(I no longer use cleanser in the morning because my skin became too dry-it was like a sudden overnight switch. My skin went from balanced to dry, dull, and itchy, so I stopped overwashing.
💠 After rinsing, I apply a toner.
💠 Once that dries, I follow up with a vitamin C serum.
💠 After letting the serum absorb, I apply a sensitive skin moisturizer.
💠 Once that sets, I finish with either sunscreen or NYX tinted moisturizer with SPF 30.
🌃Night (PM):
💠 I start by exfoliating my lips with a lip scrub.
💠 Then I use a cleansing oil to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime.
💠 I follow with a second cleanse using my prequel cleanser (this is a double cleanse).
💠 After cleansing, I apply toner.
💠 On nights when I exfoliate (2–3 times a week), I use a liquid exfoliant, followed again by toner to rebalance my pH.
💠 Next, I apply retinol (start slowly—just 1–2 times a week if you have sensitive skin, then build up).
Tip: don’t use on the nights you exfoliate if you have sensitivity!
💠 I follow with my sensitive skin lotion, and finally, I apply a lip mask and Aquaphor on top!
⭐️Tip: change your pillow case as much as possible and avoid touching your face!
🚨I almost forgot to add that I use Red light therapy on my face and abdomen(that’s a story for another day). I do this 3 times a week. You can always get a hand-held led light like the one in the photo. Is great for killing bacteria and wrinkles(yes killing those wrinkles 😂).
✨Remember: it’s not about using the exact products I use. What matters is finding products that work for your skin.✨
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Perioral dermatitis is a common yet often misunderstood skin condition characterized by red, bumpy, and sometimes itchy patches around the mouth and nose. Although its exact cause remains unknown, factors such as over-washing, topical steroid use, and environmental irritants are thought to contribute. Managing this condition effectively involves a tailored skincare routine that restores skin barrier function and minimizes irritation. Hydration plays a critical role in both alleviating the symptoms of perioral dermatitis and preventing flare-ups. Using hydrating cleansers like gentle, non-foaming options (for example, the "prequel" cleanser mentioned) helps maintain moisture levels without stripping natural oils. Applying moisturizers specially formulated for sensitive skin contributes to barrier repair and soothing effects. Aquaphor is a popular occlusive product that seals in moisture, preventing transepidermal water loss, which is essential for dry and compromised skin. Vitamin C serums serve a dual purpose—providing antioxidant protection and brightening the skin tone while supporting collagen synthesis. Choosing formulations suitable for sensitive or compromised skin reduces the risk of irritation. Similarly, sunscreens or tinted moisturizers with SPF, such as NYX SPF 30 products, shield the skin from harmful UV rays, which can worsen skin conditions. Evening skincare routines with double cleansing improve removal of makeup, sunscreen, and grime without harsh scrubbing. Cleansing oils dissolve impurities gently, followed by a mild cleanser restoring a fresh but hydrated skin surface. The use of liquid exfoliants 2 to 3 times weekly aids in removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover; however, caution is advised for sensitive skin to avoid over-exfoliation. Retinol, introduced slowly, supports skin renewal and wrinkle reduction, but must be avoided on exfoliation nights to prevent irritation. Toners that rebalance pH after cleansing and exfoliation help maintain the skin's natural acid mantle. Additional non-chemical therapies such as red light therapy, administered three times a week, offer anti-inflammatory benefits and aid in bacteria reduction. Handheld LED devices are convenient options for home use that can complement traditional skincare regimens. Estheticians emphasize that while specific brand choices like AVEDA, OLAY, and Aquaphor are effective, personalization based on individual skin needs remains paramount. Avoiding excessive face touching and frequent pillowcase changes reduce bacterial transfer and skin irritation, further supporting skin health. Understanding underlying skin issues and adopting a consistent, gentle routine tailored to your skin type is key to managing dryness and perioral dermatitis, enhancing comfort and appearance over time.