SHINE: 4-step Summer Skincare Routine

Summer 2017 has been the hottest season yet, literally. All the more reason I needed to step up my skincare routine to ensure my skin stays fresh and protected. With this, I came up with a simple 4-step skincare routine that I have been sporting this summer. Note: All products are locally available! ♥


Just to put this out there - I am not a skin specialist. What I will share with you is based on my own experience and what I have found effective for my skin. 

A little background: I have dry (to normal) and sensitive skin.

Step 1: Makeup Remover
using Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
PhP 149.00

Certainly, Micellar Water had all of us intrigued at first. It revolutionized the way of removing makeup without the use of oil-based products. What made me choose Garnier out of the dozen brands is Project Vanity's Micellar Water battle. Garnier won fair and square, which removed makeup in just three swipes, compared to four other brands that took more than eight swipes. Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water claims to remove makeup, cleanse, and soothe all in one use, all of which I find true. 

Another thing to like about is Garnier has an option for people who have sensitive skin. Two types of Micellar Water are made available depending on your skin type. One choice is the cleansing water for sensitive skin and the other with the Pure Active formula suitable for normal skin types.  

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
Available in Mercury Drug, Robinsons Selections, Watsons, etc.

Step 2: Foam Cleanser
using CathyDoll Foam Cleanser
PhP 180.00

CathyDoll is a Korean skincare brand that offers quite affordable products here in the Philippines. What I like about this 4-in-1 product is that it does the job for me. It cleanses, with the help of microbeads, without irritating my skin.  Another thing I love about this product is it whitens. After every wash, I can immediately see the subtle whitening effect that makes my skin clearer as it seems. It also claims to be a makeup remover, toner, and serum. (Although, I still use different products for removing makeup and toning.)

CathyDoll 4-in-1 Foam Cleanser
Available in Watsons, SM Megamall, etc.

Step 3: Toner
using T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel
PhP 298.00

The job of a good toner is to maintain the pH balance of our skin, which will bring out the healthy natural glow of our skin. Toner is especially advisable for oily skin for it will deeply reduce oiliness. 

However, there are certain factors to weigh in when it comes to this skincare step. Here are some guidelines: 
(1) Toners have high concentration of alcohol which can harm our delicate skin. Look for toners which are made up of natural ingredients and/or have low alcohol percentage.  
(2) Be sure to apply only a pea-sized amount onto a cotton pad to prevent damaging your skin. 
(3) Toners have high oil-reduction quality, so if you have dry skin, make sure to apply moisturizer after. 

Aaand that is why I chose T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel toner from Healthy Options. It is 100% Natural Astringent that I fully trust. Plus, this is also available in travel size for only PhP 75.00.

T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel Toner
Available in Healthy Options stores.

Step 4: Moisturizer + Sunscreen
using Celeteque Sun Care Matte Moisturizer
PhP 230.00

We're finally here in the most important step - moisturizer + sunscreen. Moisturizer is highly important since it will keep your face hydrated throughout a hot summer day. If you have oily skin, don't fret. You can still put on moisturizer with a matte finish to control shine.

As I have attended a few beauty seminars, I have found out that the biggest enemy of our skin is the sun. Daily exposure to sunlight can cause faster skin-ageing and wrinkling. Luckily, we can still combat it by putting on sunscreen everyday and making sure that we limit our time under the sun. 

I have recently discovered Celeteque's Sun Care Matte Moisturizer that is a 2-in-1 moisturizer that provides SPF 30 to my skin as well. Compared to the original moisturizer Celeteque has, Sun Care Matte Moisturizer does feel a bit heavier, but both have translucent finishes. What I love most about this is it has a dewy finish, contrary to its matte title. Some people might find it off, but personally I prefer a dewy look over a matte one any day.  

Celeteque Sun Care Matte Moisturizer
Available in Watsons stores nationwide. 

Total budget = PhP 857.00

So, this wraps up my summer routine! I hope my simple skincare guide gave you a slight idea on how you can take care of your skin without busting out your savings!

How do you take care of your skin during summer?

Care to share some tips below?