So, obviously after turning 30, my skin decided to throw a pimple party. Although at least I am better equipped to deal with it now, as opposed to my teens where harsh cleansers, scrubs and ointments were the order of the day, drying my skin into oblivion and doing more harm than good. So, today let me share the My Skin is Throwing a Tantrum Edit with you.

Starting with skincare, I find less is more, and the gentler the better. Anything that is too harsh and drying kicks skin into oil-producing overdrive, which lands us back at square one.

The Noreva Universal Micellar Cleansing Lotion is super gentle. It removes makeup and cleanses well, and I have been using it as my second cleansing step since it leaves my skin feeling nourished. I love that it can be used as a normal cleanser and rinsed off, or as a micellar product and wiped over skin with a cotton pad to remove dirt and makeup without a rinse.

When I was sent the *Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel, I knew it was just what I needed! Not only does this product clear active breakouts, but it also prevents clogged pores and future breakouts, without drying the skin! I have been using this every night, on clean skin, and my clogged pores have decreased and I currently have zero pimples. I was pleasantly surprised that my skin has not dried out using this without any other product every night. Since my skin is currently under control, I am going to try using this every second night and see how it goes. Speaking about Dermalogica, have you entered the giveaway yet?

The second treatment product I have been using is the Lierac Exfoliating, Purifying and Clarifying Mask. It is a clay mask that tingles on application and leaves my skin feeling purified, refined and cleansed but not dry. It can be rinsed off with water or rubbed off in circular movements, and thanks to its micro-granules rubbing adds that extra bit of exfoliation. I wouldn’t recommend physical exfoliation if you have active acne though (rather use a chemical exfoliator), but for clogged pores it is amazing!

A surprising product was the *Vichy Normaderm Skin Balance Moisturising & Oil Controller Aqua Gel. When I saw Normaderm and Gel I thought, Nope, too drying! But then I tried it, and there was no dry tight feeling in fact it was pretty hydrating. I have been using this daily, and it smells amazing and feels so light, fresh and comfortable on the skin.

We all know the importance of sun protection. But when my skin is throwing a tantrum, the last thing I want to do is put on a rich spf product. That’s where the *Vichy Ideal Soleil Mattifying Corrective Care SPF30 has come in. This new product is meant to target blemishes, pores and shine. I’m not sure about all of that, but anti-shine definitely! I have been using this daily over the Aqua Gel and my skin is left matte but not flat, with a great base for makeup. The only thing about this product is that it dries matte really quick, so it can pill if you rub it in. Rather pat it in as you would a makeup primer.

Moving onto makeup, hydration is key to avoid the dreaded cakey look, and the less layers of makeup the better.

The Laura Geller Spackle Treatment Even Tone Makeup Primer is a perfect peach gold that helps to extend the wear time of makeup while color-correcting the appearance of skin discoloration.  It has a subtle illuminating soft-focus effect to blur imperfections while adding radiance. It is meant to be skincare-infused to help even the skin tone, enhance clarity and diminish the appearance of dark spots for a flawless complexion. I don’t know whether or not this is true, but I love the hint of illumination it adds and it doesn’t hurt to try, right?

In my opinion the worst makeup mistake with troublesome skin is too much coverage. Instead of concealing, the layers and layers of cakey makeup ends up drawing attention to the problem. Which is why I like the Milani Conceal + Perfect 2 in 1 Foundation + Concealer in Sand Beige. It is quite a full coverage foundation and disguises most imperfections without looking too heavy, so I don’t need to still use concealer, except for under my eyes.

Most shimmery makeup products tend to emphasise skin imperfections, which is certainly not what I want when my skin is not in the best state. So, I have been reaching for the NYX High Definition Blush in Amber, which has a matte finish. This gives my cheeks a lovely healthy flush without drawing attention to pores or skin issues. I think it is a pretty universal shade too. Although it is matte it doesn’t look dry or powdery but has good pigmentation.

When my skin is not great, the art of distraction is sometimes the best option. Which brings me to the Colourpop Ultra Satin Liquid Lipstick in Brooklyn. It is bright without being too overwhelming, but still offers that distraction. If everyone is looking at your stunning lipstick shade that means they are not looking at your skin! 🙂

The Beauty Fix Radiant Makeup Finish (now Me & Youth) is one of the best smelling mists I have tried! I like to use this to prep my skin after cleansing and before applying makeup as well as after makeup application for a plump radiant finish. This helps to hydrate the skin and remove that terrible cakey finish. The only issue I have is that it makes my eyes water, and sometimes big water drops land on my face instead of a fine mist.

What products do you use when your skin throws a tantrum? Are we friends on Twitter yet?

*Press Sample