SkinStore Editors
Writer and expert4 years ago
The article below was provided by Melynda Barham, one of our estheticians at SkinStore. When you talk with us, you talk with the experts in beauty and skincare products.Not going to lie, I am a recovering skincare product junkie. I say “recovering” loosely not only because I still have an abundance of beauty products in my regimen, but I also love to try new skincare products. However, age does bring wisdom. Over the years I have learned to taper my regimen to include the same key ingredients but not necessarily the same products over and over. With so many exceptional brands to choose from, it’s hard to narrow my choices down to single products.There are however a few tried and true products that I continue to use and replenish. I also like to keep some alternatives on hand to compliment my must-haves for skincare. This makes it easier to leave behind my more expensive products when traveling or when I need to get ready at the gym, and let's be real, when the expensive product doesn’t fit into my budget. My best advice for those who are conscious about the cost, is to put your money on products that make the most impact, like serums, antioxidants and retinols. When your budget allows, incorporate the addition of high-quality cleansers and toners. With all that said, some of my favorite products are very affordable, which goes to prove that effective doesn’t necessarily mean expensive.
From the Esthetician: Melynda’s Skincare Product Favorites
PCA Skin Facial Wash
This gentle lactic acid formulation effectively removes environmental impurities and makeup while leaving the skin hydrated, soothed and pH balanced. Suitable for all skin types. I love that this cleanser is not only hydrating but with the benefit of lactic acid, it also works to combat the signs of aging with continued use.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
This exfoliating cleanser gently scrubs away dead skin using ultra-fine Jojoba Beads with Alpha-Hydroxy and Beta-Hydroxy Acids to improve the appearance of skin tone and texture. This is a perfect cleanser for combating discoloration issues. I try to incorporate this cleanser into my daily regimen 3-4 times a week.
Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist
A harmonic blend of certified organic, antioxidant-rich white and red grape juices, soothing aloe vera, nutrient-rich rosehip, grapeseed oil and vitamins to hydrate and balance skin's natural moisture for a fresh complexion. This is one of my favorite toners for the winter months. Suited for all skin types, this formulation leaves skin soft and hydrated.
PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner
This formulation of vitamins, enzymes, amino acids and alpha hydroxy acids helps refine pores, remove superficial dead skin cells and provide added nutrients. This skincare product can be used by all skin types. For those who tend to be dry, I would recommend only using this once a day and then alternate with a gentle toner like the one I’ve listed above.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels
Now this is a skincare product that diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while boosting skin density and vitality. This reduces pore size and breakouts. Gently restores radiance with a calibrated blend of Alpha and Beta hydroxy acids. Soothes, conditions and moisturizes. Delivers cumulative benefits and optimal results with daily use. I love that this peel is gentle enough for daily use. It's perfect for those who shy away from more aggressive peels but still provides the same benefits over time.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
This is a powerful resurfacing treatment that acts as a ten-minute exfoliating facial to revitalize and tone. The scientifically developed skincare product delivers a specified blend of 30% Alpha Hydroxyl Acids (Glycloic, Lactic, Tartaric and Citric) as well as 2% Beta Hydroxyl Salicylic Acid. The formulation works to deeply exfoliate the surface layer of skin, unclog pores, combat blemishes and visibly improve uneven textures. This is an excellent option instead of using the daily peel. Being a stronger treatment, it should only be used once a week.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% High Strength Vitamin and Mineral Blemish Formula
This lightweight serum infuses skin with an intense dose of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), proven to minimize the appearance of blemishes and discoloration. This is a skincare product that is a definite must have in my skincare regimen. Not only does it do what is implied, but it also helps diminish the appearance of large pores.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C Serum
Boasting an antioxidant blend of 15% Pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), 1% Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol) and 0.5% Ferulic Acid, this SkinCeutical skincare product can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and photo-damage, alongside combating loss of elasticity to leave the skin firm and youthful. Every regimen should include a highly effective antioxidant. This one is my absolute favorites due to the lightweight formulation absorbing so easily into the skin. After using this product a few times, you’ll no longer wonder why it’s the best-selling Vitamin C serum on the market.
Paula's Choice Resist C15 Super Booster
This skincare product combines a blend of 15% stabilized Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), antioxidant Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, and peptides to repair visible signs of aging and stimulate collagen production for smoother, brighter and firmer skin. This is a wonderful alternative for anyone on a budget. While there are noticeable differences in absorption, this is a great choice for anyone looking to add an effective antioxidant into their regimen.
SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Hydrating Serum
The unique serum-gel texture helps smooth the appearance of skin and reduce the look of fine lines, wrinkles and even stubborn crow’s feet. The addition of 2.0% Licorice Root Extract and 0.2% Purple Rice Extract helps preserve the hyaluronic acid content in skin, and therefore offer long-lasting results. One of my favorite skincare products with HA’s because it not only gives your skin an immediate boost, but also helps your skin to increase its own levels of HA.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydration Support Formula
Synergising low, medium and high molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid, the oil-free skincare treatment penetrates into the skin's deeper layers to deliver intense, long-lasting hydration, whilst Vitamin B5 enhances effectiveness to leave the skin smooth, plump and youthful-looking. This is my favorite HA to recommend to 20 somethings. The brand is highly transparent, effective and affordable.
SkinMedica Retinol Complex
This exclusive Retinol formula is encapsulated with an antioxidant complex, enhancing skin texture and minimizing irritation. On my favorites list due to it being one of the more potent retinols available without a prescription yet causes minimal to no irritation.
SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum
Suitable for all skin types, the formulation consists of a naturally-derived growth factor along with a powerful blend of peptides and nutrients to replenish and protect. Blended together, the pair deliver unparalleled results, resulting in your complexion feeling more refined and even, with visibly reduced signs of aging and a younger looking vitality. This is an all time winner for me because it’s a one stop shop by combining both the growth factor and the peptides. There is no need to add an additional peptide serum.
SkinMedica Total Defense and Repair SPF 50
This is a rejuvenating sunscreen with an advanced antioxidant complex proven to prevent premature aging from chronic exposure to infrared. It provides comprehensive protection beyond UVA and UVB while supporting the skin's ability to restore itself. I love that this product not only offers sun protection but also helps improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturizer
This 4-in-one hydrator blends chemical-free SPF 30, tinted minerals for coverage, and antioxidant rich Grape, Aloe and Pomegranate juices for a radiant, protected, even-toned complexion. This product is a daily essential for all skin types. This skincare product is one of my all time favorite sunscreens for wearing under makeup. It goes on smooth like a primer and wears beautifully under the foundation.
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SkinStore Editors
Writer and expert
Our team of beauty experts cover everything from skincare to makeup, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the SkinStore blog, and find all your essentials in one place.
