She Strengthens

My Journey to Cleaner Skincare: A Budget-Friendly Experiment

As I reflect on the past year, I’m reminded of the importance of self-care and taking control of my own well-being. One area I’ve been focusing on is my skincare routine, which was previously non-existent. I used to think all affordable makeup was the same, but I’ve since learned that’s not the case. The truth is, many popular brands operate with questionable ethics and use harmful ingredients.

Rethinking My Approach

I’ve started to examine my purchasing decisions, beginning with my skincare. I want to use cleaner, more socially-conscious products and develop a consistent routine. Inspired by Kourtney Kardashian’s skincare routine, I decided to try a budget-friendly version. I researched brands, read reviews, and prioritized Black-owned businesses whenever possible.

My Previous Skincare Routine (or Lack Thereof)

Before quarantine, I didn’t have a skincare routine. My husband was thrilled if I removed my makeup before bed. I was afraid skincare products would clog my pores, and I was just plain lazy. When I started getting breakouts, I turned to Glossier, which was a great introduction to skincare. However, I wanted to explore cleaner options.

The Products I Used

Here’s a list of the products I used in July, along with their prices:

• Purifying Mask: Anne’s Apothecary Dead Sea facial treatment ($15)
• Lip Scrub: Homemade mix of honey, coconut oil, and raw sugar ($10)
• Face Pads: Glossier toner ($24)
• Serum: Blade + Bloom rich face serum ($18)
• Mist: Olay mist ($11)
• Face Oil: BLK + GRN face oil ($20)
• Sunscreen: Black Girl Sunscreen ($18.99)

The Results

After using these products for a month, I noticed significant improvements in my skin. The purifying mask left my skin feeling smooth, and the lip scrub made a surprising difference. The serum and sunscreen became essential steps in my routine, providing an instant glow and protecting my skin from hyperpigmentation.

What I’ll Continue Using

Here are the products I’ll repurchase and continue using:

• Purifying mask (once or twice a week)
• Lip scrub (as a nighttime step)
• Serum (a game-changer for my skin)
• Sunscreen (a daily must-have)

Final Thoughts

Taking care of my skin has been incredibly therapeutic. I encourage you to explore a routine that works for you, even if it means starting small. Remember, it’s not about breaking the bank; it’s about making conscious choices that benefit your skin and the environment.