• Weather/temperature changes

• Hormonal changes

• Lack of sleep/water

• Poor nutrition 

One of the biggest changes to my skin was actually caused by the symptoms of motherhood! Okay this might sound dramatic but when you spend so much time caring for and nurturing your children, it can be hard to provide yourself with the care you need to look and feel your best. Skincare often becomes the least of our concerns. However, motherhood should not mean that our skincare routine goes out of the window - you might just need to simplify the process and put together a routine that works around your chaotic schedule and family life. That is what I have done and my skin is looking better than ever! So I thought I would give you a quick run down of my routine.

Here’s a quick and easy skincare routine that all busy mums can follow. 

Morning: 

1. Start the morning by washing your face using a gentle cleanser to wash away any dirt or grime. Using cold water can also help tighten your pores, reducing the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines. 

2. Apply a small amount of toner and then a skincare serum that is tailored to your specific ailments or issues. For example, a vitamin C serum would be great for your a.m routine as it is great for brightening your skin. Be sure to remember an eye serum too.

3. Apply generous amounts of hydrating moisturisers, especially if you are dealing with dry skin or spending a lot of time outdoors. There are many benefits associated with applying moisturiser each day but the most important in hydration. Choose one that will keep your skin hydrated all day long as this will benefit your skin the most.

4. If it is not already included in your moisturiser, apply SPF - even when the weather isn’t the brightest. By using SPF daily, you’ll notice a change in your skin and will never go back. The sun is one of the biggest ageing factors, so this is a step you do not want to miss. Your future self will thank you!

5. Continue with your make-up routine as usual. 

During the day:

1. Set yourself the challenge of drinking more water. Not only is this great for your skin, but it will also provide you with a much-needed boost of energy and helps you set an excellent example for your children. If you find it hard to drink enough water, consider setting reminders on your phone or buying one of those fancy water bottles with timings printed on the outside.

2. Re-apply SPF when necessary, especially if you spend a lot of time outside or in the sun. This step is particularly important during the summer months when the chances of getting sunburned are much higher. 

3. Stick a bottle of facial mist in your bag, which can be used to quickly deal with any issues you face throughout the day - such as dryness, flaking skin or inflammation, but is also so refreshing too.

4. Focus on food (and drinks) that are kinder to your skin. For example, while coffee may be delicious, it’s often not the best for your skin as it can be very dehydrating. Maybe opt for a fruit infused tea instead.

Evening: 

1. Wind down in the evening by drinking a warm cup of chamomile tea. This can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and help improve your skin. This is because chamomile contains a range of antioxidants, which rejuvenate tired skin cells and tighten pores. 

2. Use pre cleanser to remove any traces of your make-up. This is important as sleeping in your makeup can increase the chances of dealing with breakouts or dryness.

3. Wash your face thoroughly using cold water. I usually go in with a second cleanse at this point to make sure all the dirt and grime from the day is gone.

4. Once a week, apply a  face mask. Not only is this a great way to practice self-care, they are also your skin's best friend - whether you use them to brighten your complexion or fight off the signs of ageing. They are a great way of packing your skin with goodness and giving them a little bit of TLC. 

5. Apply a serum. This could be a different serum from the one you use in the morning, as some are only designed to be used in the evening. For example, retinol serums (made from vitamin A) are great for dealing with acne and ageing and are best applied in the evening.

6. Apply a facial oil or moisturiser gently, ensuring that it is thoroughly massaged into your skin. Giving your skin a little extra pamper on an evening is such a nice way to get you ready and relaxed for bed. 

7. Use a silk pillowcase, which can improve your skin’s hydration and help fight off signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines. I have also found that they help with keeping my hair less frizzy!

The above steps should not take up more than ten minutes at a time, meaning that you should easily be able to find time for them within your schedule. Furthermore, you must make time in your routine that you can dedicate entirely to yourself - as self-care is never selfish! In fact, a skincare routine (and other acts of self-care) will not only improve your mood but could also have a positive effect on your mental health - making it doubly important to commit to a routine. I hope you find this helpful.

Amina xx