One of my favorite things is to try new beauty and skincare products. As a Physician Assistant, I pay close attention to the ingredients and their benefits. After many trials and triumphs, I am happy to share my Best of 2020 in Skincare list! There were truly so many great skincare products this year that I loved, and it was hard to narrow it down to a top 10 or so. When creating this list, I wanted to look at common skincare categories that most people are familiar with or may use on an everyday basis. For some of the more expensive items, I provided budget-friendly alternatives. We all know 2020 has been a rough year, and I want to do my part to make life simpler. Read below for my Best of 2020 in Skincare!
Best of 2020 in Skincare
Anti-Aging Serum: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
This has reigned supreme for a few years for good reason: the formula is amazing! Vitamin C is one of the best anti-aging ingredients for your skin but it has to be stabilized appropriately to remain an active ingredient. These ingredients create the perfect mixture to help decrease fine lines and photodamage, while neutralizing free radicals that can prematurely age our skin. Dermatologists love this product. I love this product. It’s a beauty splurge but one that makes your skin radiant!
Sunscreen: La Roche Posay Anthelios Face Sunscreen SPF 50
We all know this is one of the most important aspects of skincare! True to its name, this sunscreen is ultra light and applies smoothly onto your face. It is 100% minerally based which normally equates to leaving a white sheen, however it is virtually invisible. This version has a subtle tint which makes it blend beautifully into your skin! While this is my personal favorite, you may have a different favorite and that’s ok! Wearing a broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or greater sunscreen that you enjoy wearing on an everyday basis is key.
Lip Sunscreen: Replenix Plumping Lip Treatment
I discovered this earlier in the year and I’m obsessed. Yes, this is more of a luxurious lip sunscreen and definitely not required, but I love it. Not only is it broad spectrum SPF 30, but it also has a temporary plumping effect. I like this benefit obviously because it volumizes your lips but moreso because it has me reapplying it more frequently – hence, protecting my lips more effectively. This is packed full of beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B3 and ceramides. (Side note: I would not use this if you currently have chapped lips; rather this budget-friendly lip balm has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide which is better for sensitive skin.)
Shaving Cream: Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel
With added ingredients, like oat and Vitamin E, this helps to calm down inflammation and soothe skin. I love this especially for the winter months as our skin can be extra dry and sensitive. This is also great for decreasing razor bumps, especially in the bikini area or for men’s face. Since there is no added fragrance, it’s a great option for both men and women!
Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Water
This is part of a multi-step routine I have to remove makeup at the end of the day. Moisten a cotton ball with this solution and dab it across your face. I find this does a great job removing a good portion of my sunscreen and makeup. Following this, I cleanse my face and complete the remainder of my nighttime routine. I use this daily and love the gentle formula!
Face Wash: SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel
Originally this face wash was recommended by my dermatologist, and I have grown to love it! Two key ingredients are lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) and glycolic acid. LHA is a derivative of salicylic acid and has been shown to increase dermal thickening. Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliator, which can help decrease dead skin buildup. This is great for acne prone skin! I use this at night and follow it with my topical retinoid and moisturizers. For a gentle and budget-friendly alternative, this is a great cleanser.
Body Moisturizer: Weleda Skin Food Ultra-Rich Body Creme
Just like the name implies, this is ultra-rich and ultra thick! While the standard size is only 2.5 ounces, a little bit goes a long way. Rub this on elbows, knees, hands and anywhere with dry skin! For moisturizers for those with sensitive skin or eczema, just a few I like are this, this and this. Of course, you can never go wrong with Vaseline either!
Retinoid: La Roche-Posay Effaclar and Differin
These both have the same active ingredient, adapalene. While the adapalene is traditionally for acne, this once prescription gel, now over-the-counter gel can offer anti-aging benefits as well. There are clinical trials that show improvement in sun-damaged skin cells and sunspots. Apply this at night on clean skin after your moisturizer. You can apply this to the back of your hands for sunspots, as well. Start slow, a couple times per week, as this may dry out your skin. Be sure to wear sunscreen during the day! (Side note: this is not recommended in pregnancy.)
Tanning Mitt: St. Tropez Luxe Tan Mitt
This is worth a mention, the mitt can make a big difference in limiting streaks and splotches when self-tanning. From someone who has tried every self-tanning mitt, this one is the best!! The mitt feels so soft on your skin and cleans easily with soap and water. This will be the best $7.50 investment for your faux bronze glow. Truthfully, I haven’t found a self-tanner that I 100% love, but this mousse is my current favorite to use with this mitt.
Oral Supplement: Heliocare Advanced
(It’s important to always discuss supplements with your medical provider first.) I have talked about Heliocare in the past (see old blog) because the main ingredient, Polypodium leucotomas, for its benefit of decreasing UV damage to the skin. The advanced version includes Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) which has had some research showing it can decrease the rates of new skin cancers in high risk populations while taking the supplement. This photo-protective supplement is not to be taken instead of sunscreen, but is to be used in conjunction with sunscreen and other sun-protective measures.
Hyperpigmentation: SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
Full disclosure: I have not used this product myself but have heard great things so I added it towards the end. This serum includes tranexamic acid, kojic acid and niacinaminde, all of which are beneficial for hyperpigmentation. Always use this in conjunction with sunscreen to prevent age spots and protect your skin.
And while it’s not directly a “skincare product”, I love the slip pillowcases! These are made from silk and decrease absorption of the our nighttime skincare products. The smooth fabric also decreases friction and those morning face wrinkles we can get from ordinary pillowcases. I recently stocked up and ordered this sleep set which includes is on sale!
Skinceuticals Sale! If you buy Skinceuticals products they are currently 15% off today with code SKINC15! This line is frequently sold in dermatologist’s offices because the products are created with high-quality ingredients. Below are a few of my favorite Skinceuticals products.
And for a few basic, everyday anti-aging skincare tips in a cheesy, short video:
Live your life joyfully so,
Ashley
Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Content provided on Joyfully So channels is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
