the little things

Because sometimes it’s the smallest things that help the most after an exhausting day...

Whether it’s after a busy day at work or a long night out, there are times when it feels impossible to go through your entire skincare routine. I’ve had plenty of nights where I’m standing in front of the bathroom sink, exhausted, and the idea of doing my usual regimen just might make me crash out.

*These makeup-removing microfiber cloths work like *magic* and they’re healthier for the skin vs. makeup wipes.*

Most nights, my routine usually starts with a thorough double cleanse. But after a tiring day, I really just want everything off in one swipe and to throw in the towel.

In college, I used to use makeup wipes (and that’s even if I chose to actually take my makeup off — don’t judge me), but it was always wasteful having to use multiple wipes and then still feeling like my skin wasn’t clean.

Eventually, I found alternatives like the MakeUp Eraser, which admittedly still suggests you do a quick cleanse of your face after using it, but IMO it feels easier than double cleansing.

This next part is optional, but if you’re dealing with a rogue breakout, acne patches are my nighttime holy grail. I’ll be honest — I mostly use them to stop myself from picking, and that goes a long way. On low effort nights, we’re just looking to make it all out of sight and out of mind.

After cleansing, I would usually go through the “core” steps of my skincare routine, applying toners, serums, etc. However, to make things simple, on nights like these, I just use moisturizer.

*I might be in my late-20s, but I legitimately only use acne patches that are “cute” because I just think we all need a little ~whimsy~ in our lives.*

This night cream is non-irritating and hydrating + it personally gives me a little *spa feel*

As far as which one, it really depends on your skin type, sensitivity, and skin concerns.

However, this moisturizer is not meant to be the same as what you would use in your usual routine. It doesn’t have to have all those powerhouse ingredients to address your different skin goals.

Since it’s not for daily use, feel free to indulge or keep your choice budget-friendly — but use one that is gentle, hydrating, and will protect and repair your skin barrier.

Honestly, everything above is really all that you *need* to do.

If it feels effortless enough, keep some lip balm bedside to ensure your lips also get some TLC.

Ideally, just pick something that absorbs quickly so it doesn’t smear all over your pillowcase or face.

A fan favorite – don’t get me wrong, the lip mask is designed for overnight use but again for simplicity sake, I just want swipe on a balm really quick.

Plus…I lose the little wand that comes with the mask sooo quickly.

You’re *technically* only supposed to keep these on for 10-20 min.

But, I’ve found that the gel/jelly ones fall off my face while I sleep (probably) within that amount of time, so it all works out…right?

If I have some at hand, I also love using under-eye patches.

For sake of honesty, I don’t really know if they’re effective at what they *claim” to do (targeting dark circles, for example).

But to me, they feel cooling and add this ever-so-slight amount of weight – like a calming signal to my body that I made it through the day and can finally rest. ~

This is just my process — some days it’s more, some days it’s less — but it’s meant to be flexible. Use what helps, skip what doesn’t, and let that be enough for now.
xx