In the long, ever-changing climate of the UK, skincare has become an indispensable part of my daily life. The damp and chilly weather, dry indoor air, fluctuating sunlight, and central heating all pose constant challenges to the skin. After years of trial and error, exploring brands large and small, I’ve gradually developed a skincare routine that truly works for me. Today, I’d like to share my skincare experience with you—from my morning and evening routines to special care practices, product selection, and recommended shopping platforms.
1. Understanding What Your Skin Truly Needs
Before choosing any product, understanding your skin type and concerns is essential. I have combination skin: oily in the T-zone but dry and sensitive on the cheeks, especially during seasonal changes. I used to over-cleanse and focus excessively on oil control, which only worsened the situation, causing enlarged pores, redness, and stinging. Eventually, I realized—what the skin needs is balance, not extremes.
Skincare is never one-size-fits-all. It must adapt to your skin type, current condition, and even the season. Below is my current skincare flow and the key points I focus on.
2. Detailed Morning and Evening Skincare Routine
1. Cleansing: Gentle Is Key
In the morning, I use CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (purchased from Amazon UK) to wake up my skin. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, with a soft foam that doesn’t strip the skin—perfect for sensitive skin and colder seasons. In the evening, I switch to The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm to remove makeup and sunscreen. It’s gentle on the eyes and doesn’t irritate.
2. Toner: Hydration and Soothing
I like toners with a repairing effect, such as Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner (bought from YesStyle). Its refreshing texture provides excellent hydration. I apply two to three layers to make my skin feel thoroughly moisturized. For me, toner mainly soothes and balances the skin’s pH level, not just hydrates.
3. Serum: The Core of Targeted Care
Here are two serums I always repurchase:
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5: A budget-friendly hydration booster, especially effective in heated indoor environments.
- La Roche-Posay B5 Serum: Great for barrier repair and reducing redness; I use it during seasonal transitions or when my skin feels unstable.
4. Moisturizer: Locking in Moisture and Protection
My current favorite is Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré (from LookFantastic). A French classic, it works as a moisturizer, primer, or emergency mask. The thick texture spreads easily, doesn’t clog pores, and leaves no greasy residue.
5. Sunscreen: A Daily Essential
Even though UK sunlight isn’t as intense as the Mediterranean, I never skip sunscreen. I use Eucerin Oil Control SPF50+ (from Amazon). It’s lightweight, non-whitening, and excellent for oily-combination skin. Sunscreen isn’t just for preventing tanning—it’s essential for anti-aging.
3. Weekly Special Skincare Plan
Besides daily care, I schedule 2–3 special treatments per week for deep cleansing, exfoliation, or intensive repair:
1. Exfoliation: Gentle Removal of Dead Skin Cells
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (available on the UK official website and Amazon) is my go-to for clearing pores. It helps reduce blackheads, acne, and congestion—especially suitable for oily or combination skin. I limit use to twice a week to avoid over-irritation.
2. Clay Mask: Purifying the Skin
I use Origins Active Charcoal Mask weekly, focusing on the T-zone. It makes my skin feel visibly cleaner. Always follow up with hydration and soothing care after any clay mask to prevent dryness or redness.
3. Emergency Repair: Seasonal or Late-Night Skin Recovery
For transition seasons, I use Avene Repair Mask or Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Mask—both available on Feelunique and Cult Beauty. They quickly calm redness, dryness, and tightness, restoring comfort to the skin.
4. Product Selection Criteria and Pairing Tips
With so many options available, here are my main criteria when choosing skincare products:
- Clearly listed ingredients with no artificial fragrance, alcohol, or acne-triggering oils.
- Reliable brand reputation with authentic reviews.
- Compatibility with my current routine—no pilling, stinging, or negative reactions.
Pairing products also takes care. For instance, avoid using acids like BHA/AHA with high-concentration vitamin C or alcohol-based products to prevent irritation. Hydrating products generally pair well with most actives, but apply them in the right order—from watery to creamy, light to rich.
5. Skincare Tools and Devices
Besides using my hands, here are some tools I often rely on:
- Silicone Cleansing Brush: I use the Foreo Luna mini 2 (from LookFantastic). It’s gentler than bristle brushes and leaves my skin clean but not tight.
- Massaging Wand or Ice Roller: Used in the morning or after masks to reduce puffiness and soothe. Chilled rollers also tighten pores and help makeup apply more smoothly.
These accessories aren’t essential but enhance the experience and outcomes of my skincare routine.
6. Seasonal Skincare Adjustments
The UK has clear seasonal variations, and I adjust my routine accordingly:
- Winter: Focus on Hydration and Repair
I use richer creams and hydrating serums, and reduce cleansing to avoid stripping the skin. - Spring: Allergy and Sensitivity Season
I switch to soothing products and avoid actives to give my skin a break during this sensitive time. - Summer: Oil Control and Sun Protection
I use lightweight moisturizers and prioritize sunscreen. I also cleanse more thoroughly in the evening. - Autumn: Recovery and Renewal
I reintroduce mild exfoliants to remove summer buildup and prep the skin for colder months with nourishing treatments.
7. Recommended Shopping Platforms and Tips
My go-to skincare shopping sites include:
- Amazon UK: Wide selection and fast shipping. Great deals on brands like The Ordinary and La Roche-Posay.
- LookFantastic: Frequent discounts, wide variety, ideal for stocking up.
- Feelunique: Clean interface, new launches often available first, with bonus gifts.
- Cult Beauty: Perfect for niche luxury brands. Beautiful packaging and reliable shipping.
When shopping, I check user reviews—especially those with photos and before/after comparisons. I also ensure the product has proper ingredient descriptions and is from a verified seller.
8. Skincare Is More Than a Ritual—It’s a Lifestyle
Over the years, I’ve come to see skincare as more than a way to “look good.” It’s a form of self-respect and gentle discipline. Taking ten minutes a day to care for my skin is a moment of quiet self-connection.
Skincare isn’t magic—it’s the result of patience and consistency. One day, you’ll look in the mirror and realize your skin is calmer, your makeup sits better, and you feel more vibrant and confident.
That feeling doesn’t come from luxury ingredients or ten-step routines. It comes from your choices, your rituals, your kindness to yourself. I hope you find your own skincare rhythm—treat your skin like a secret garden, nurture it with care, and it will bloom for you, every single day.