Product test

These are my favourite face care products to start the day with

8.8.2022

Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson

Cleanse and care. That’s how I treat my tired face first thing in the morning. This routine used to cost me quite a lot of effort. These days, I take pleasure in it thanks to the right products. Keep reading to find out which tubs, tubes and pots are my heroes and why my skin loves them.

When it comes to skincare, I used to rely on a single superstars. A product that stood out, promised a strong performance and to which I took a shine – not considering an opening or closing act. However, the right skincare routine
should involve several components that band together for best results. Depending on the needs of your skin, this team may be made up of very different members. Today, I’d like to introduce you to my morning skincare squad I put together a few months ago. My book of reference was «Skincare: The New Edit» by skincare expert Caroline Hirons.

But what works for me might not be a perfect match for you. So the following recommendations are meant to provide you with inspiration if your skin has similar needs to mine: I’m 30, have an oily, blemish-prone T-zone and a cheek area that tends to be dry. In other words, combination skin. What’s more, my skin started breaking out more and more with stubborn pimples a few months ago. I also suddenly developed a sensitivity to certain products for the first time ever. But with my new skincare routine, I’ve regained control of my skin.

Cleansing

«Youthful Sugar Mask» by Klairs
About a year and a half ago, I first wrote about this all-rounder from by the Korean brand Klairs as part of my monthly favourites series. This product is an exfoliator, cleansing balm and mask in one. Since discovering the product, I’ve used up several jars of the «Youthful Sugar Mask» and keep on buying more. It’s also what I start my daily care routine with.

A hazelnut-size amount of the thick sugary paste will do. I spread it all over my face. If I feel like a stronger scrub, I first massage the product in without water for wetting my hands later. If I feel like a gentler scrub, I wet my hands and face first. Next up, I let the product sit while I take a quick shower. This way, I also benefit from the nourishing properties of the mask in addition to the cleansing and exfoliating effect. The all-round product contains grapefruit and raspberry, as well as shea butter and jojoba seed oil, which make my skin beautifully soft. And my make-up thanks me for this.

According to the manufacturer, suitable for every skin type.

Face masks

Klairs Youthful Glow

«Grapefruit Cleansing Balm» by Q+A
On days when my skin is dying of thirst, I like to swap the Klairs cleanser for the balm by Q+A. It also contains grapefruit, but is much richer. This balm is a silver bullet for dry skin, and I’ll definitely be reaching for it more often in winter. Apply, massage and wipe off with a damp cloth; because this water-resistant stuff can’t be washed off. The result? Well-nourished, baby-soft skin.

According to the manufacturer, suitable for every skin type.

Q+A Grapefruit Cleansing Balm (Facial cleansing wipes, 125 ml)

Face cleansers

Quantity discount

CHF11.80 per piece for 2 units CHF94.40/1l

Q+A Grapefruit Cleansing Balm

Facial cleansing wipes, 125 ml

Toner

«Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Toner» by Ren

After cleansing, I reach for my fruit acid toner by Ren. It acts as a gentle chemical exfoliator, removing dead skin cells (those that survived the initial scrub) and stimulating my collagen production on top of that. Plus, the AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) makes my skin texture smooth over time and gives it a nice glow right after use. I apply it by putting a bit of the toner on a cotton pad and run it over my face.

Caution: if you use any type of fruit acid in your skincare routine, be sure to include sunscreen (see last step of my routine), as it makes your skin even more sensitive to UV radiation.

According to the manufacturer, suitable for every skin type.

Face cleansers

Ren Ready Steady Glow

Face toner, 250 ml

Moisturiser

«120h Liquid Hydrator» by Nø Cosmetics

To give my skin the right amount of moisture, I try to avoid a conventional cream – especially in summer. Instead, I prefer to go for Liquid Hydrator by Nø Cosmetics. This liquid skincare product was created in collaboration with Leon, better known as xskincare on social media. Leon, a student of biology, takes a critical look at the beauty industry and informs his followers about the science behind the active ingredients used in skin care products. This moisture booster soothes and protects the skin with ingredients including moisture-boosting panthenol and niacinamide. Just pop some on your hand and pat it in with the flat of your hand. It’s refreshing, quickly absorbed and provides a light base for your next step.

According to the manufacturer, suitable for every skin type.

Sunscreen

Reliable sunscreen completes my routine. It’s an absolute must to prevent premature ageing of the skin and sun damage. I use it whether I leave the house or not. Find out which products I like because they also work well under my make-up:

Guide
Sunscreen I wear all year round
by Natalie Hemengül

Please note: your skin changes depending on the season and personal circumstances. That’s why it’s important to listen to your skin’s needs and modify your skincare routine accordingly from time to time.

There are over 80,000 beauty products and counting on the Galaxus website. That’s quite a range. For just that reason, I regularly share my favourites from a pool of both novelties and classics.

33 people like this article

Natalie Hemengül

Senior Editor

Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.ch

As a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.

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These are my favourite face care products to start the day with

Cleansing

Toner

Moisturiser

Sunscreen

Sunscreen I wear all year round

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