Foolproof mask-wearing night time skincare routine

Healthy skin is the foundation of all makeup.

COVID-19 is evolving into an endemic and mask-wearing is here to stay. While masks are essential to physically protect us from a wide array of germs, it unfortunately can lead to greater bacteria growth on our skin, resulting in more acne breakouts and comedones. A good skincare routine is key to prevent this, and we have created a foolproof night time skincare routine for most skin types that prevents breakouts and promote glowing, smooth skin.

After a long day out in Singapore’s humid weather with makeup caked under your mask, it is crucial to double cleanse your skin. We recommend going in with a gentle cleanser for the first cleanse, to wash off as much makeup and dirt as possible. Caudalie‘s Vinoclean Gentle Cleansing Almond Milk makes for a great first cleanse. With no added fragrances, it is suitable for sensitive skin and emollient enough to breakdown the makeup and oil off your skin. Following the first cleanse, the second cleanse is to ensure all dirt is removed and target particular skin concerns. If your skin leans towards the drier side, you can double cleanse with the same Caudalie almond milk cleanser. If your skin is more combination to oily, Caudalie’s Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser is a better alternative to control oil production and prevent breakouts, without compromising your skin’s natural barrier.

Toners are an important step in every skincare routine as it preps your pores for following steps ahead. We recommend a hydrating toner for all skin types, as ample skin hydration is the key to solving most skin problems such as dry skin, breakouts and more. Clarins‘ Hydra-Essentiel Mist is a great, lightweight, multi-protection hydration mist that packs a punch with each spritz. Pro-tip: use it throughout the day when you need a quick refresher and layer it up if you have drier skin!

Arguably the second-most important step of the routine after double cleansing, this is when you want to apply a more concentrated product to tackle your skin’s main concerns. As a general rule of thumb, given that mask-wearing clogs pores and create a build-up of dirt that potentially leads to acne breakouts, we’d recommend a product with a chemical exfoliant, specifically beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) which can penetrate deeper into the skin and unclog pores. Caudalie‘s Vinopure Blemish Control Infusion Serum contains the BHA salicylic acid as well as niacinamide which helps to hydrate and brighten the skin. Just a couple pumps of this serum consistently every night will prevent acne bumps and allow your skin to feel smoother and look brighter. Of course, do ensure to apply (and reapply) sufficient sunscreen every morning to maximise the effects of chemical exfoliants.

The last step of your skincare routine is to seal in all the skincare goodness you’ve slathered on from previous steps. Eau Thermale Avène‘s Hydrance Aqua-Gel Night Hydrating Sleeping Mask is a potent night time moisturiser does the trick best. With their signature Avène thermal spring water and a unique patented formula, this moisturiser locks in hydration for 24 hours while it detoxifies and soothes the skin. Do not worry about any sticky residue, as its gel-like texture prevents greasiness.