For over a year, I used the same skincare products day in and day out. Then, suddenly one day, it hit me: I’ve been stuck in a rut. The products that had become beloved staples on my sink counter weren’t bad, but they weren’t really doing anything beneficial for my skin type (sensitive and oily). So, in the spirit of Ohlolly’s third birthday, I resolved to change up my routine in three ways - here's what I learned!

Go Clean

More than ever today, we consumers are educating ourselves on the ingredients in our skincare products. This is fantastic because it means we’re investing in our skin’s future, taking the time to understand what helps it and what hurts it. Hand-in-hand with this has come the demand for organic or natural products, AKA clean K-beauty. And let me tell you, these products do not disappoint.

JKosmmune

JKosmmune is a cruelty-free brand that totes safe, natural ingredients. The brand’s Enzyme Cleansing Powder is a true game changer. First off, since it’s a powder and not a liquid, it’s perfect for travel. But more importantly, my face felt incredibly soft and clean after just one use, without the dryness that so many other cleansers leave behind. Paired with the JKosmmune Lotion for Normal to Oily Skin, my skin both looks and feels incredible.

Urang

Urang, a cruelty-free and organic brand, has an aptly named Travel Kit that I was curious to use on an upcoming trip. And wow, every day with that kit felt like a spa day. From the nourishing cleansers to the rose water essence, my skin felt soothed and hydrated even on the 10-hour flight. Not one of the six kit products irritated my stubborn skin, effectively making me a lifelong fan.

Sioris

And last, but certainly not least, Sioris. There is something to be said for the miracle of multi-tasking products. They cut down on time, cost, and yes, that valuable sink space. And that’s exactly what the Sioris Time is Running Out Mist has done for me. Hailed as a toner, serum, and mist, there is no easier product in my routine. I spritz it on when I wake up in the morning. I spritz it on right after my shower. I spritz it on at 3 o'clock when my skin is in need of a pick-me-up. If you get my drift, I spritz it on whenever, wherever, and the genius is that there is no wrong way to use it.  

Peel Away Your Problems

I’ve always been skeptical when it comes to exfoliation methods for sensitive skin. Specifically, peel-based exfoliators. Even hearing the word peel makes me quiver with fear. But I didn’t know what I was missing out on until I tried the Pyunkang Yul Peeling Gel. It’s gentle, fragrance-free, and a pure miracle worker. Why? Because as you massage the gel onto your skin, you can actually feel (and see) it working. Dead skin cells are whisked away in a matter of seconds, leaving your resulting skin glowing. No redness, no itchiness. With a payoff this satisfying, it’s a borderline addictive product. Note: Newest stock of this product comes in an all-white tube.

Embrace the Cushion

I’ve been fascinated by cushion foundations for quite some time, but never ventured to give them a try. Now was finally my chance, and I lunged for the Heimish Artless Perfect Cushion SPF50+ PA+++. Cushion foundations, as the name implies, come with two parts: a cushion and a foundation. The cushion is similar to the famed beautyblender, used to dab in the foundation without ever getting your fingertips messy. All you do is dip the cushion in the foundation, then apply to your face. It’s as simple as that. The Heimish product left me with a very smooth, medium coverage finish, and to top it all off, the most glowy skin of my life. Never before have I gotten so many compliments on how dewy my skin looks. Needless to say, I’ve been hooked on the cushion ever since!

Updating my routine was a seriously eye-opening journey. I learned about an up-and-coming area of K-beauty (all-natural!), overcame a personal fear (peels!), and tried a new makeup application method (the cushion!) - all of which made my skin feel brighter and simply healthier.

What new products will you try in 2019?

Words & photos by Alexis_Strobin 💕