Renovating a property is far from glamorous. If you're just embarking on a project then be prepared to be covered head to toe in dust, paint and dirt. If you're renovating through winter you'll also be most likely spending hours on end in a cold and damp environment. All of these factors combined are likely to have a huge impact on your skin's barrier so although it might not be the top of your priority list, it's important to look after it and protect it.
I've curated a narrowed down list of my go-to products that help to keep my skin clear, hydrated and moisturised. I have super sensitive, combination skin; so although all the products might not work for everyone, they are all suitable for most skin types.
In order of application:
Cleanse
Arguably the most important step in your skincare routine not only during a renovation but also on a daily basis, regardless of whether you wear makeup or not.
In the morning I like to use a gel or milk cleanser - something that will remove the products from the night before and leave my face feeling fresh. A firm favourite is the Murad Prebiotic 4-in-1 MultiCleanser, this gentle hydrating cleanser will calm and sooth irritated skin.
In the evenings I will double cleanse, first with a balm cleanser such as Clinique Take the Day Off to remove any makeup or skincare products from the morning and then with either the gel cleanser or occasionally (once/twice a week) an exfoliating cleanser such as Murad's AHA/BHA Exfoliating cleanser. I tend to avoid physical exfoliators and scrubs as they can damage the skin barrier but this contains biodegradable Jojoba beads which are gentle on the skin yet leave it feeling clean. This also contains AHA (glycolic and lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid) - putting it simply they both remove dead skin cells and decrease inflammation, AHA's on the top surface of the skin whilst BHA's are able to penetrate deeper and remove excess sebum.
Exfoliation
Whilst on the topic of exfoliation, when my skin is feeling extra sensitive I'll avoid the exfoliating cleanser and opt for Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant instead as it's gentle enough to be used daily - I recommend using this in the evenings. There is a lot of confusion around pores, despite what advertising has lead you to believe you cannot reduce the size of them, using salicylic acid however can help clear clogs (just what you need during a renovation!) to reduce the small bumps you get on the skin surface.
Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is thinner and therefore more easily damaged than the rest of your face, keep it simple whilst protecting the skin with a hydrating eye cream such as Glossier Bubblewrap.
Serum - Antioxidant
Now for the face, in the mornings I use the Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum. Vitamin C is an antioxidant which helps to repair damaged skin cells; not only this but it also helps with pigmentation and enhances skin radiance. Just what you need whilst going makeup free on site!
Serum - Hydration
Next my holy grail skincare ingredient: hyaluronic acid - A humectant that retains moisture in the skin and leaves your face feeling hydrated and plump. I use The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 morning and night.
Moisturise
Serums are more effective when locked in with a moisturiser, the La Roche-Posay Toleraine Ultra Fluid is great for sensitive skin and not only helps to hydrate the skin but the ingredient Glycerin also provides protection from skin irritants.
Facial Oil
I tend to avoid oils as they are comedogenic (block pores), however, the one I am willing to make an exception for and low on the comedogenic scale is Pai Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil. I apply this as my final step in the evenings when my skin is feeling extra sensitive. Great for eczema prone skin and rich in omegas to help protect and regenerate.
Lip Balm
Something to keep on your throughout the day and to keep reapplying is a lip balm. It's boujee but it's a favourite - the By Terry Baume de Rose Flaconnette Liquid Lip Balm will keep your lips protected whilst fighting against the dust! Go for a stick applicator as your don't want to be sticking your dirty fingers in a pot.
Hand Cream
Renovating is going to take a toll on your hands, I suffer with eczema so it was especially important I kept them moisturised and hydrated during this time. You can't go wrong with Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Hand Cream - it will restore the skin's barrier and help to protect irritated skin.
You'll be happy to hear that's the end of my daily renovation skincare routine minus the exception of masks. I try to dedicate some time every Sunday to give myself a mini facial and use a mask depending on what my skin needs; if it's lacking hydration I'll go for a sheet mask such as Garnier Moisture Bomb and if it's feeling sensitive and in need of soothing I'll use the Kiehls Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Masque.
What are your go-to products during a renovation?
*Feature Image Source: Pinterest
