MASKNE SKINCARE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Review by Deborah Ferguson
As we enter a new phase of Covid-19: despite the abundance of vaccinations available to all ages, it would be naïve of me to say
“I no longer need to wear a mask.” I’ve tried a stellar list of skincare over the last 12 months to curb my maskne. Some of my latest finds aren’t exclusive to maskne, but I highly recommend for sensitive skin that is easily irritated with or without a mask. My skin easily reacts to heavy, over fragranced skincare. Here’s my new hit list of must haves that minimized my breakouts while they hydrated and soothed my skin.
SUMMER FRIDAYS
OVERTIME MASK
This clarifying mask is formulated for dull and congested skin. This vegan, non paraben vitamin-packed pumpkin and apricot seed exfoliator mask, gently remove dead skin cells for an overall luminous effect. When trying this mask, I applied after washing my face with the Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser. Its texture was lotion-like, and easy to apply to the skin. I massaged into my skin for about 60 seconds , I could feel the small tingling effect of the exfoliating beads. I left it on my face for 10-15 mins, after rinsing off my skin was glowing, pores were a bit smaller, and my skin irritations minimized and ready for step 3: the Jet Lag Mask.
BUY HERE: WWW.SUMMERFRIDAYS.COM
JET LAG MASK
This mask has a cult-like reputation. I was skeptical as the branding focused on young skin under 30. Much to my surprise after trying it, my cynical view of this product was forgotten. I can honestly say after applying a medium to thick layer over my entire face, including my eye area I was surprised how well it absorbed into my skin. I applied before bed, and I woke up to velvety, moisturized, less irritated skin. It removed the stigma surrounding face masks; it has become a multi-use product in my skincare regime; overnight moisturizer, as well as a skin primer to use before makeup. An amazing side note: I did not breakout, which I often do from moisturizing masks. I have yet to try it on a long flight, as the key ingredients: Chestnut Extract, Vitamin C & Niacinamide are meant to renew and nourish while traveling in skin-challenging conditions.
BUY HERE: WWW.SUMMERFRIDAYS.COM
LA SOLUTION 10 DE CHANEL
SENSITIVE SKIN CREAM
CHANEL skincare is often naturally fragranced; however this breakthrough cream is not and is comprised of 10 ingredients. Formulated specifically for sensitive skin by NY dermatologist Dr. Amy Wechsler, I tried it as a base layer before I applied my sunscreen. I was amazed by the light, non-oily texture as it disappeared into my skin. The overall effect gave my skin a more even, smooth texture. I tried it on a hot day while in Palm Springs under my PPE mask, and to my surprise there was no residual leftover buildup like other creams I’ve tried. I hope that CHANEL will continue to produce more skincare products within this range as the formula is as close to pure and simple as any cream could hope for while delivering the full CHANEL luxury experience.
BUY HERE: WWW.CHANEL.COM
Naturium RetinOl Cream 2.5%
RETINOL CREAM
Naturium launched their brand in early 2020 as an affordable, natural skincare line. I prefer to try products with a high concentration of natural ingredients, which Naturium fits nicely in that category. The Retinol cream was a stand out product yielding a soothing and healing effect . A much needed product for my Maskne irritations.
Step 1: I used their Mixed Greens Nutrient-Rich Gel Cleanser, a PH-balanced, gentle formula. It removed makeup, and the daily oil build-up my skin creates while wearing a PPE mask. Note: I didn’t need a lot for the powerful superfood blend of green tea, aloe vera and kakdu plum to foam up and rinse away my skins impurities.
Step 2: I applied the all-in-one skin perfecting Retinol moisturizer. Its complex advanced formula that includes 2.5% of micro encapsulated retinol and bakuchiol (a natural Retinol alternative) delivered results that were both hydrating, minimized my fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
BUY HERE: WWW.NATURIUM.COM
African Botanics Pure Marula Oil
PURE MARULA OIL
Marula oil is known as one of the most antioxidant-rich natural oils; it’s a single-origin, luxury face oil, 100% cold pressed, responsibly sourced in South Africa. Its unparalleled natural anti-aging and anti inflammatory properties also repair damaged skin and reduce irritation. The highly concentrated lightweight formula absorbed instantly into my skin with minimal residue. The healing properties of this face oil produced immediate results; my skin was noticeably plumper, nourished, glowing and it minimized my maskne skin irritations. It’s an ideal moisturizer for sensitive skin as it’s the richest plant source of Omega 9 which ensures the quick absorption, reduces skin pores as well as boosts your skin collagen. It can be used alone as an overnight skin repair treatment or under your daily sunscreen and makeup. Formulated without silicones, allergens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, PEGS, or SLSs. A vegan, cruelty free, 100% Fair trade product.
BUY HERE: WWW.AFRICANBOTANICS.COM
Creative Direction & Review
DEBORAH FERGUSON
Photography
SESSE LIND
Web layout
VICTORIA SMITH
*Reviews are non sponsored*