How To Get Smooth Skin Pre-Foundation

It's no secret that we're all after perfect skin. No matter what our age or skin type the key thing is that we all share the goal of obtaining beautifully smooth, poreless, glass skin. Whilst it seems like an impossible feat, it can be done (gradually) and is something that I've spent many months trying to conquer. My favourite part of both my skincare and makeup routine is perfecting my base and it tends to be what people praise me on the most and today I wanted to talk you through all of the steps I've been taking to achieve flawless skin without foundation - it can be done!  

Cleanse With A Tool | This is a must-have for achieving clear, even skin. In my early teens, I used a typical high-street face wash and only used my hands to remove the product but once I started using a flannel the texture of my skin dramatically improved. Even before you start using actual exfoliants you need to give the skin a gentle buff every morning and night, either with a flannel, muslin cloth or even a sponge (I love the Konjac ones!) It's such a quick and easy way to help remove impurities, dry skin and uneven texture, especially if you don't like using things like acids and scrubs!

Step Up Your Treatments | Whenever I go two-three days without using some sort of resurfacing toner/mask I instantly notice a difference in the look and feel of my skin. I lose my natural shine and I get massive patches of skin that feel like sandpaper - it ain't cute! I think most people use acids now, at least in a liquid form. This is great for beginners but if you want real long lasting effects you need to be exfoliating 3-5 times a week. I know it might sound a bit intense but most people can tolerate it, you just have to see what works for you. I like to switch between my favourites so one day I'll use something like the Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask which is great if you want an instant glow, then another day I'll use the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant* which leaves my skin feeling like a baby's bum! Or if I want something chemical I reach for my trusty DCL Multi-Action Penta Peel Pads* which are so potent and effective - they're a massive reason why my skin has been so good lately! 

Introduce A Supplement | I've definitely noticed an improvement since I started taking a supplement (both mentally and physically) and my skin definitely seems it's calmest when I'm keeping up with my intake. Now I can't tell you the best one for you as everyone is different but even simple Vitamin C/D tablets can give your skin a boost and make a bigger difference than you'd expect. I've been using the My Vitamins Be Your Best Tablets* which are multivitamins that help your immune system, energy levels, metabolism and much more! 

Stick To What You Know | Last year between August-October I was constantly chopping and changing my skincare routine pretty much every day and my skin was a lot more irritated than I realised but as soon as I streamlined it down to a handful of products it was like I had new skin! For about a month I kept to a solid routine of gentle but effective products and then I slowly started incorporating newbies and it made such a big difference to my skin's texture! I've also had no blemishes and my blackheads/congested areas have drastically reduced which is just amazing! The Huxley Gentle Cleansing Gel*, La Roche Posay Toleriane Ultra Intense Soothing Fluid and Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask have all been lifesavers! 

What are your top tips for keeping your skin smooth and radiant?

Maiya

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