via Urban Outfitters
It's official— spring has sprung! Flowers are in bloom, snow has turned to rain and rowdy college students have returned from the tropics. And no matter how you spent the first days of warmth, your skin undoubtedly could use some respite from the wrath of the winter winds. Recharge your batteries by setting aside 20 minutes for yourself for spring cleaning (I promise, you have time).
A spa-like three-step treatment is just what skin needs to reset and re-hydrate so it can appear dewy and youthful. Start out by simply washing your face with a SLS-free cleanser, making sure all makeup is removed. Lately, I've been using Tatcha's Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder.
Pat dry and then apply an exfoliant— you should use something with enzymes or chemicals rather than harsh scrubbing microbeads. For natural enzymes, think pumpkin, pineapple (smells unreal) or or citrus. Leave this on for about 5 minutes and spend the last 30-60 seconds massaging the product in with a little more water. Rinse.
Following the exfoliation your skin should feel softer and appear more radiant— however, you aren't finished yet! Press a warm wash cloth to the face. While the idea that this "opens pores" is actually a myth (as skincare queen Caroline Hirons says, "Pores are not doors!"), applying heat to the face allows oil trapped in pores to soften, making it easier to escape. If you have an active blemish that has come to a head, apply gentle pressure on the sides. Repeat this 2-3 times— if oil is released, continue to apply pressure, however if nothing yields— stop.
Next, apply a clay based mask— I love charcoal based products— to damp skin and allow to harden. Clay masks absorb oil (which was just loosened with the hot towel compress), allowing skin to appear clearer. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Remove gently with a warm wash cloth and pat skin dry. Seal all of this in with a shot of moisture via a leave on hydrating mask. Apply a generous coating and wear until you leave the house— then pat off any excess and rub in as a moisturizer.
Happy pampering!
xoxo,
xoxo,
Ashley
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