Skin Care
Jacqueline Solivan
Like most things, my skin changed during my first pregnancy thanks to hormones, and lo and behold it changed again postpartum (thanks again hormones!). If I’m being honest, I probably can’t blame it on hormones alone…my sleep, exercise, stress and diet surely played a role too. Once I had enough energy to tackle what became of my face I went to Sephora and splurged on all the “best” makeup to cover up my tired, dull, and acne filled face. This concept was great in theory except for the fact that I didn’t have the first clue on how to really apply makeup — and applying makeup onto a not-so-healthy skin, well, it actually looks worse in my opinion. (Not to mention the waste of money, and the amount of time that it takes to cover up…as a new mom time is of the essence). After a few weeks of failed attempts and, honestly, just feeling worse, I decided to stop trying to cover it up and instead put the work in to fix it…this was the best beauty decision I have made and now 4 years later I’m pregnant with my second child and my skin is actually GLOWING!!
Disclosure: I’m no beauty expert. Just a busy mom with limited time who wants to feel her best!
Here’s what I did:
I returned all of that makeup. I wasn’t going to cover up anymore and swapped it for skincare: cleanser, toner, facial oil, moisturizer, and sunscreen (tinted in my case, because momma wanted a jump start at the glow).
Invested in a facial. After a few subpar experiences I finally did my homework and invested it in an amazing facial to jump start my journey. First off, that was nearly two hours of alone time in a peaceful setting (money already well spent). I also learned about my specific skin type and how to care for it.
Started my routine! Like the facial experience, my skincare routine became sacred time for me, 5-10 minutes of uninterrupted me time!! Washing my face, the occasional steam and mask, face oils, moisturizer…THERAPY!!!
Drink water! Increasing my water intake significantly helped in the clearing and brightening of my skin.
I started this routine about two years after my first child was born, and 2 years later I am still committed to it. Not only is it great for my skin but it’s great for my mind: glowing skin and clear mind -- even if for a few minutes a day.
Here’s my current “Mama Glow” lineup:
Cleanser - Drunk Elephant No. 9 Jelly Cleanser & Versed Day Dissolving Cleansing Balm (oh did I not mention I double cleanse?? Ok, I try to double cleanse but some days I’m tired and only get to one)
Toner - Dickinson’s Witch Hazel (which apparently is a natural toner)
Facial Oils - I am not shy when it comes to facial oils! I use them all!! My favorites right now, which I use all together:
Summer Friday’s - Vitamin C
Ordinary - Virgin Marula Oil
Drunk Elephant - Bronzi (this is my “makeup” - a little of this and I look like a sun-kissed goddess)
Moisturizer - Drunk Elephant Protini
Sunscreen - SuperGoop! If you’re going to use makeup, Unseen is the way to go. If you’re not applying makeup I love Glow Screen (in case you haven’t noticed I’m all about the glow!)
There are a ton of products on the market these days that are “pregnancy safe” and “non toxic”. But like everything else when you’re pregnant, or breastfeeding, do your homework and/or talk to your clinician if you have any questions about what you can and cannot put on your skin. With that being said, GLOW ON MAMA! Enjoy those few minutes of time while you work on that glowing skin!
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