My Current Morning Skincare Routine

I don't often talk routines on the blog; in fact, I can't remember the last time I shared my skincare regimen with you. However, I do think it's helpful to see how I mix and match between all the different products I review for you guys, and which ones I like enough to actually reach for on the daily.

Before we dive in, let's talk briefly about my skin: I have a sensitive combination skin type that's both acne- and dehydration-prone. My main concerns are keeping my skin clear, preventing and fighting hyperpigmentation from past breakouts and sun damage, as well as hydration and anti-aging. Hmm, is that too much to ask from a skincare routine? Maaybee. One important detail is that I'm currently 18 weeks along with our first baby, so everything I use has to be gentle and safe for pregnancy.

Now that we have this out of the way, here are the products I use every morning. I always start by cleansing my face with the NUDE Omega Cleansing Jelly (reviewed in detail here). I still like this product, but probably won't repurchase once my tube runs out - which will probably happen soon-ish - because I find the consistency just a tad too thick and difficult to spread around. I apply a dab of the jelly (cleansing balm, really) to a dry face and then remove with a warm, damp washcloth; I make sure to do several passes with the washcloth to really get everything off.

Next, I always always apply an acid toner; I'm currently rotating between the Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic (on my second bottle, review here) and the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner (click). I usually do the Pixi most days, and only reach for the Clarins about twice a week for a bit of a change. Both of these acid toners contain glycolic acid (AHA), but the Clarins has also a very low percentage of salicylic acid (BHA); some health practitioners discourage the use of salicylic acid in pregnancy, but my doctor (and other sources) thinks it's not a concern at 1% and below. If I had to choose one, I prefer the Pixi and think it's by far a better value for money, but I do enjoy my Clarins - it almost feels a bit more clarifying than the Pixi. I follow this chemical exfoliation step with a quick spritz of a hydrosol; I'm using the rock rose (Cistus) one at the moment.

I then apply a small dab of TATCHA Luminous Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum* under both eyes, luxuriating in the cooling sensation from the porcelain applicator (I also mentioned this eye cream in my March Favorites post here), followed by a thin layer of InstaNatural Advanced Formula Vitamin C Serum* (review here) all over the face. I thought I wasn't seeing any further improvement from my Vitamin C products (I was using the Paula's Choice C20 Booster* before the Insta Natural one), but I was recently looking at my face shots from last year and my freckles and hyperpigmentation spots are without a doubt much lighter and less noticeable - so thumbs up for that.

Lastly, I seal all that hydration in with a good moisturizer; I either use the Nuxe Crème Fraîche de Beauté Moisturizer Cream for Normal and Sensitive Skin* (click!) on days I'm staying indoors and/or using make-up with SPF on top, or the Paula's Choice Hydralight Daily Mineral Complex SPF 30* (reviewed here). The Nuxe is by far more nourishing and moisturizing - I don't really think Paula's Hydralight sunscreen has enough moisturizing properties even for my combination skin, but paired with a good serum, it works - and helps to keep the T-zone oilies away for longer.

There you have it - that's wasn't too complicated and wordy, am I right? Well, we still have the evening routine to go through, which is a bit less straightforward; I never said I was low maintenance ;) What do you currently use in your morning skincare routine? Any products you just can't live without?

Disclaimer: Products marked with an asterix (*) were press samples I received from the brand's PR for review consideration. I purchased all the other products myself. All links are non-affiliate. All opinions are 100% honest and unbiased, no matter if the product featured were purchased with my own money or provided free of charge. Thank you for reading!