if your skin is anything like mine, it’s just as high maintenance as any boughetto fab chick. the dry winter weather means my face needs a whole new set of products. after tons of experiments, i’ve finally found the formula for keeping my skin fresh face ready all winter. the best part: each product costs less than $10!

since I’m entirely too lazy to do a full face of makeup everyday, i try to make sure my skin stays photo ready. the frigid winter conditions in NYC bring my dry skin to desert levels, causing dry patches, redness, and small cracks that lead to breakouts – not cute! thankfully the below lineup helps me battle the elements, keeping my skin smooth and hydrated.

Part 1: Cleansing. the best products for my sensitive skin are simple formulas. i use Olay Gentle Clean foaming cleanser ($4.99 at Harmon Face Values) to start my routine. it’s soap and fragrance-free, so it won’t cause irritation. then I use Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner ($6.29 at Harmon Face Values). here’s a little background on toner for those that haven’t been put on yet. toner gives your skin an extra clean by removing impurities your cleanser might not have caught. it also helps even your complexion and shrink your pores. these products don’t strip away your skin’s natural moisture and won’t leave you feeling like your face has been stretched out once it dries.

Part 2: Exfoliating. I use an exfoliating mask 1-2 times a week after washing. my mask of choice is Freeman Charcoal + Black Sugar gel mask and scrub ($4.29 at Harmon Face Values). the charcoal detoxifies the skin by drawing out impurities from dirt and pollution, which is necessary when you live in a city like New York. the black sugar works as an exfoliant, clearing away dead skin cells and exposing the smooth, beautiful skin below. this is a great mask for all skin types.

Part 3: Moisturizing. one of the best moisturizers i’ve ever used is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($3.99 at Target). it’s patented delivery technology provides hydration that penetrates multiple layers of skin, without being super thick or greasy. it can be used all over your body and is perfect if you suffer from skin conditions such as eczema. the final product I use is CVS Aftersun Aloe Vera Moisturizing Gel ($3.59 at CVS). if you thought aloe was only good in the summer you thought wrong! the gel provides a protective layer and helps prevent windburn (yes this is a real thing – my NY people know what I mean). it also contains vitamin e which helps restore damaged skin.

don’t be afraid to ditch the makeup and let your natural shine come through. try these products out for yourself and comment below!

NOTE: prices may vary.

xO kirsten 🌸