Skincare I love + a doc to keep tabs

A skincare freak in the Google sheets

Skincare occupies a huge portion of my brain (probably the part that was meant for reverse parking). My entry point was Clean & Clear’s three step ritual and I’ve never looked back. But it’s mega confusing, especially if you have an actual skin concern. I understand the frustration of wanting something to work. I also enjoy the ritual, and will use a product just because it makes me feel nice. I try to curate a routine that ticks both of these boxes.

If you are a Rich Creme subscriber, you probably have a routine (please share your best finds in the comments section, I’ll curate them someplace) but I thought given this Substack’s infancy, it would be useful to start at the beginning, speaking to routine basics and the products I like in every category. I am linking all my suggestions in a Google doc so you can share them with friends who aren’t on this app, as well.

I’m not a qualified expert, so please do your own research. I can answer any questions you might have below, as well.

Product recommendation criteria:

• I’d pay for it

• I’d recommend my friends/mum pay for it

Building a routine —

First, some notes on building a routine. As a general rule of thumb, I think less is best. Better for your skin, the planet, your wallet and so forth .

Beginner

Cleanser

Moisturiser

Sun protection

Intermediate

Cleanser

Moisturiser

Sun protection

+ Targeted treatment tailored to your skin (it could be a serum, an exfoliant, a Retinol, or a hybrid)

Advanced

Cleanser

Moisturiser

Sun protection

+ Multiple targeted treatments tailored to your skin (it could be a serum, an exfoliant, a Retinol, or a hybrid)

+ A mist or essence

+ Masks and devices

Cleanser – you can go as high or low as you like. If there is a product to scrimp on it’s probably cleanser (it goes down the sink, after all). You might be happy with one formula and use it twice, you might like to have two cleansers — one dedicated to your first wash to remove heavier makeup and sunscreen, plus one for the second wash. Cleansing properly is what really matters.

Rules

• Cleanse for at least 30 seconds

• You should cleanse twice at night, or at the very least use a warm flannel. If you wear makeup or want to ensure you’re properly removing sunscreen etc, start with an oil-based formula

• I think morning cleansing is optional. I usually skip it, but each to their own

• If you have dry or tight skin use something milky/buttery/creamy. If you are oily or acne-prone you might prefer a non-stripping gel

My edit of the best cleansers and key stats HERE

Moisturiser — again, you can get a good moisturiser at almost any price point. One is fine, or level up with different formulas for day and night. The most important thing is to choose something that leaves your skin feeling comfortable and balanced.

My edit of the best moisturiser and key stats HERE

Sun Protection — an essential. There are so many great sunscreens these days, remember when zinc was akin to a glue stick? Not anymore. Look for broad spectrum, ideally an SPF of 50, and a texture/finish that feels good. If you prefer a minimalistic approach, get a sunscreen that’s also hydrating — it will take the place of your day moisturiser. Don’t be fooled by makeup with SPF because it won’t offer adequate protection.

My edit of the best facial sunscreens and key stats HERE

Targeted treatments — this is where things get much more nuanced, I might do a separate newsletter. But for the purpose of this, think of a treatment product as something you’re choosing specifically for your skin to create visible change. It might be an exfoliating solution, anti-pigment serum, hydrating serum, barrier-building face oil, a Retinol, firming Peptides, an antioxidant, or a combination. If you are overwhelmed, choose just one targeted product, probably a serum. You can add more as you get confident. But don’t go crazy, 2-3 is plenty.

My edit of the best ‘treatment products’ and key stats HERE

Mist or essence — Purely for hydration, that bouncy skin finish. Also great for dry or dehydrated skin as it will help you to increase moisture retention.

My edit of the best face mists + essences and key stats HERE

Masks and devices — masking is very self care, but it can also elevate skin health. The same with devices/tools. You might want an LED mask, maybe you want to Gua Sha. Maybe you are like me and addicted to those viral collagen masks. You can choose your own adventure.

My edit of the best face mists + essences and key stats HERE

Product of the week

Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Shower Oil

This is the antithesis of last week’s CHANEL shower gel but equally good. It’s a face and body cleansing oil, like 2-in-1 but for discerning people who appreciate French beauty. The smell is very background, almost unscented. It is an oil, but there’s lots of glycerin in it, so rinses completely clean (that goes for your skin and your shower). Safe for babies, safe for eczema, great for shaving, removes light makeup, you can even put it in the bath… 10/10.

Nest few weeks — perfume, more docs, profiles…

Thank you x