I’m always passionate about trying new skincare, but my skin doesn’t always agree with me.

The double edged sword of beauty blogging is the generous packages I’m sent of new launches, and a skin barrier that can’t tolerate much at all.

For reference, I have sensitive, adult acne prone skin that loves to scar dark and pigmented thanks to my half Middle Eastern genes.

As such, I tend to introduce slowly, and cling onto holy grails that love my skin back.

This month, I’ve included a few new holy grail picks and some newbies that have made a wonderful first impression.

I’ve also included things I can’t stop reaching for, which is always a good sign that it’ll be in my routine for a long time.

Let’s jump in!

Thayers Soak It Up 80-Hour Liquid Moisturiser

First up is the Soak It Up 80-Hour Liquid Moisturiser by Thayers. One of my favourite features of this product is the convenient pump bottle.

The texture is almost similar to snail mucin, providing a satisfying application experience, and it absorbs fully into the skin.

I’ve been using it both morning and night, and although it’s designed for normal to dry skin, my combination skin has benefited greatly from its hydrating properties.

I can’t get enough of it, and it’s quickly become a staple in my routine (I have one use left before my bottle is empty!)

SVR Cicavit+ Cream

The SVR Cicavit+ is one of those special, unicorn type formulas. Since I’ve been using a vitamin A in my routine (more on that later!), I’m extra prone to irritation.

This barrier cream is essential to my routine, particularly around the delicate eye area to prevent discomfort and transferring from my Vit A.

I’ve already gone through an entire bottle, and I now apply it both morning and night to combat any dryness or irritation- beyond that, 43% of the formula is an anti-scarring complex, amazing for getting blemishes recovering quick.

My skin feels hydrated, and the cream helps my skin feel smoother and more balanced. I use this as my last step in the PM, and in the AM my last step before SPF.

I don’t find it too thick, but I do use it as a true barrier cream, not as a moisturiser replacement.

Avene Thermal Spring Water

A longtime favourite that I’ve reintroduced into my routine is the Avene Thermal Spring Water. It’s a product that many skincare enthusiasts consider a holy grail, and I’m so glad I brought it back into my regimen.

I use it to rehydrate my skin before applying serums, and it’s been a refreshing and simple addition that I’ve been enjoying immensely.

Definitely one of those- “Gosh why did I ever stop using you?!” moments.

TBH Acne Hack Spot Treatment

The TBH Acne Hack Spot Treatment is another standout product. It’s an antibacterial treatment that specifically targets the biofilm in blemishes, helping to break up the metaphorical end of day meeting that’s going well past 5 in our pores.

For those who struggle with stubborn adult acne, I highly recommend incorporating an antibacterial product into your skincare routine.

I’ve already finished my tube of the Acne Hack Spot Treatment this week, and I’m eager to get it back in my routine.

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Niacinamide Serum

The La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum has impressed me with its ability to help prevent hyperpigmentation and dark spots, thanks to the inclusion of Melasyl paired with 10% niacinamide.

Traditionally, vitamin C was considered the best option for tackling pigmentation issues, but if you have acne-prone skin like mine, you’ll know that vitamin C can sometimes trigger breakouts.

The generous 10% niacinamide, which is one of my favourite ingredients, helps prevent pigmented blemish scarring from developing. I’m thrilled with the visible results so far.

Effaclar Duo Plus M by La Roche-Posay

I recently finished my tube of Effaclar Duo Plus M by La Roche-Posay, and I already miss it. This cream contains a ceramide that prevents melanin forming in the skin, which helps the skin maintain an even tone without lightening it.

The technology behind this product is impressive, and it’s one I will definitely repurchase.

Naked Sundays Peptide Foundation Tint Beauty Screen

When it comes to makeup, my go-to product this week has been the Naked Sundays Peptide Foundation Tint Beauty Screen.

I’m currently in the midst of a skincare trial, so I prefer to keep my makeup light and breathable.

This foundation tint is hydrating, but has a satin matte finish that isn’t glowy at all- it’s lightweight, and perfect for my acne-prone skin. I wear shade 2, and it’s been my favourite option for an everyday, no-fuss makeup look.

This is one of those products you use then you ask “How did they do that?”, because this beauty isn’t just a foundation tint, it has SPF50 from mineral filters.

Not to be relied on as your daily SPF (unless you’re using a 1/4 teaspoon) the secondary SPF benefit is wonderful, and the iron oxides in the formula can help ward off hyperpigmentation and sun spots. Win/win!

IT Cosmetics CC Plus Cream in Light & Sun Blush in “Sun Warmth”

IT Cosmetics CC Plus Cream in Light, $64 & Sun Blush in “Sun Warmth”, $44 From Adore Beauty

For full coverage days, I’ve been using the IT Cosmetics CC Plus Cream in “Light”. This product entered my routine while I was trialling their new Sun Blush in the shade “Sun Warmth”.

This blush/bronzer hybrid is 95% solid serum, which at first made me nervous because of my acne-prone skin.

However, its formula includes vitamin E, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, making it both hydrating and safe for sensitive skin. It’s been a fantastic addition to my makeup routine.

It’s been great to have IT Cosmetic picks back in my rotation. They’re the OG when it comes to skincare + makeup products.

Tower 28 Shine On Lip Jelly in “Pistachio”

A lip product I’ve recently rediscovered is the Tower 28 Shine On Lip Jelly in the shade “Pistachio”. Despite usually avoiding mauve tones due to my olive-green undertones, this particular shade has a lovely coral hue that complements my skin tone without washing me out.

It’s become a way I can enjoy a slightly more purple leaning tone and I highly recommend it for those with similar complexions.

The formula is more gel like and plush, because of that, it layers on itself very well and doesn’t get sticky. The wear down is lovely, but it doesn’t last as long as other glosses, do definitely pop this one in your handbag. This isn’t anything new if you’re a gloss wearer, though!

Holme Beauty Peach Colour Corrector

Next on my list is the Home Beauty Peach Colour Corrector in “Peach”. Unlike many thick, greasy colour correctors, this one is lightweight and doesn’t crease under the eyes.

It’s just pigmented enough to neutralise the purple tones under my eyes, and it sits beautifully under makeup. I’ve been using it daily and can’t get enough of how seamlessly it blends into my routine.

Also, not to be petty…I hate tiny little pots. It has to be the most amazing product in the world to make me unscrew a little pot- so the fact the colour corrector is in a easy to use concealer-like tube, phew! no more little pot + brush combo.

Odesse Deep Orchid Fragrance

Another daily favourite is the Deep Orchid fragrance by Odesse, which I purchased from VAMS Beauty. This beautiful scent has been my go-to perfume, and I’ve been applying it non-stop.

I’ll share the full notes below, not that means much to me, a total fragrance noob. What I can say is that it smells amazing in all the right and beautiful ways. It’s such a “safe” scent- not too far leaning in any direction.

According to vamsbeauty.com , the fragrance notes are:

• Top Notes: Tea, Patchouli, Orchid

• Heart Notes: Bergamot, Jasmine, Musk

• Base Notes: Orange Flower, Freesia, Osmanthus

Peepers Keepers Silicone Under Eye Patches

I’ve also been enjoying the Peepers Keepers Silicone Under Eye Patches. They’re a simple yet effective way to pamper myself, offering a little extra care for my under-eye area. It’s a luxurious addition to my skincare routine, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed using them.

They pair with any product you want to layer them with and honestly, you don’t even need to use a traditional eye cream- just use your favourite rich moisturiser and it’s a perfect way to visibly plump under the eyes.

Hairification Pure Growth Leave-In Growth Intensifying Spray

For hair care, the Hairification Pure Growth Leave-In Growth Intensifying Spray has been a standout. It’s packed with active ingredients that support hair growth and strengthen the hair follicle.

The lightweight, undetectable formula doesn’t make my roots oily (best applied when your hair is damp and you can spray and massage it directly on your scalp) and I’ve noticed new growth and stronger hair since incorporating it into my routine.

Side note? I think some of the mist has been fluttering down on my face, and I’m starting to look a bit like this cat fish picture below- because of this, maybe lean back when applying.

I wish I was joking- but if there’s one way to attest this product is working, it’s my new little whiskers (and baby hairs)

Naked Sundays 100% Mineral Collagen Glow Crème

The Naked Sundays 100% Mineral Collagen Glow Crème has been a saviour for my sensitive skin, especially after a minor mishap with facial hair removal (are you noticing a theme this month?!).

It provides excellent priming for long-wear makeup days. I’m so glad I’ve reintroduced it into my daily routine— It has a magical way of smoothing over the skin.

If you’re new to a 100% mineral, they’re thicker, so maybe give it a try in store at MECCA first if you’re fussy with textures. I do love her, though.

Rimmel Clear Brow Wax

I’ve also been enjoying the Rimmel Kind & Free Universal Brow Wax. This clear, non-soapy formula sets my brows perfectly without making them look crusty or white.

It’s incredibly affordable (goes 50% off often), and it’s become an essential part of my brow routine, especially when I’m a little behind on my usual grooming.

Gunk Off Cleansing Balm

Gunk Off Cleansing Balm in a Tub, $55 From VAMS Beauty & Gunk Off Cleansing Balm In a Tube, $55 from gunkoffskincare.com.au

I have to give a shout-out to the Gunk Off Cleansing Balm by Gunk Skincare. It’s my ultimate holy grail cleansing balm, and I’ve just finished another tube.

Rich and effective, it removes everything from mineral SPF to heavy makeup without irritating my sensitive skin.

It’s fragrance-free and perfect for acne-prone skin, making it my go-to balm cleanser. It comes in a tub and tube, so it depends where you like to cleanse.

It’s a wonderful way to never forget your first cleanse by leaving your tube in the shower.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

Lastly, I’ve been really impressed with the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. I was initially nervous to introduce retinol back into my routine, but this 0.3% encapsulated retinol formula has been incredibly gentle.

My skin has tolerated it well, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the smoothness and appearance of my pores.

It’s a great product for anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin looking to incorporate retinol into their skincare routine.

I also like how spreadable the texture serum is. It helps me not deposit too much product in one part of my face, which is a sure fire way to get irritation.

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