I play with my skincare A LOT. I recently found a very simple routine that really produced some great results. For me that means a refined look to pores, skin clarity (this is relative of course…I’ll probably never completely get rid of my hyperpigmentation), texture improvement and shine. I have noticed ALL of them.
But how? Why; Below I’ll detail what I did two nights a week that made a BIG impact – and I’ll also detail my AM routine. I’ll be sharing the other 5 nights a week soon (definitely getting a bit more complex…).
*I will link all the products for you, but check the end of the post for any discounts I was able to arrange. I ALWAYS reach out to brands to negotiate discounts. If I can get a discount for us, I will.
The idea: pH regulation (acidification) and lipid replenishment
These essential ingredients gave my skin the ability to heal itself and look its best. I can’t believe how simple this is – both in concept and implementation!
Why should I acidify?
The acidity of the skin’s pH is important for maintaining its overall health and functionality. The skin’s pH refers to its level of acidity or alkalinity, with a pH below 7 considered acidic. The skin’s normal pH range is slightly acidic, typically ranging from 4.5 to 5.5. This mildly acidic environment is vital for several reasons. First, it helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier function, known as the acid mantle. The acid mantle acts as a protective shield against harmful microorganisms, preventing them from colonizing and multiplying in the skin. Second, acidic pH promotes the proper functioning of enzymes and proteins involved in various skin processes, including barrier repair, cell renewal, and wound healing. It also helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance and prevent excessive water loss.
In addition, a slightly acidic pH helps regulate the activity of the sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, a natural moisturizer for the skin. Disturbances in the skin’s pH balance, such as an overly alkaline environment, can lead to a variety of problems, including dryness, sensitivity, inflammation, and increased susceptibility to infection. Therefore, maintaining the acidity of the skin’s pH within the optimal range is crucial to promoting healthy, supple and balanced skin.
What are lipids and why should we replenish them?
Lipids play a key role in maintaining the health and integrity of the skin. The lipid barrier of the skin, also known as the stratum corneum, is composed of a variety of lipids such as roof tiles, cholesterol, and free fatty acids. These lipids form a protective barrier which helps prevent excessive water loss, maintaining hydration and protection from external irritants and pathogens.
Ceramides, in particular, are essential for skin barrier function as they contribute to the structural integrity and cohesion of the stratum corneum. Cholesterol helps regulate fluidity and permeability within the skin, while free fatty acids exhibit antimicrobial properties and contribute to the skin’s acidic pH. Collectively, these lipids work together to maintain the skin’s moisture balance, support its protective function, and contribute to overall skin health. Imbalances or deficiencies in these lipids can lead to dryness, irritation and disturbed skin barrier function, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal lipid levels for healthy skin.
Here’s what I use about 2 nights a week:
then following it with mine
Here’s what I use in my morning routine:
2. I watched it immediately using mine ZiiP HHello with the Golden Gel and just rinse my face when I’m done (not cleansing, just rinsing). This turns out to make a HUGE difference in the morning. The gel acts like a super-charged mask that saturates my skin. Of course the microcurrent drives the gel into the skin and contributes to skin health. I did the default Ziip program – it’s 4 minutes long and has both the micro and nano currents cycle for a full 4 minutes. I do anywhere from 4-12 minutes every morning right now. I LOVE IT. So easy and the effect on my skin is immediately apparent (hydration/shine/block).
The ZIIP HALO Microcurrent device is currently 15% off for my community – you won’t find a bigger HALO discount use code PennZIiP
To order it Zip Hello Internationally:
In the top right corner change it to your country
Use a password PENNZIIP at the checkout
Please note…I don’t wait long between this step and the next, but IF I were using a stronger acid (say P50 or some stronger glycolic) I WOULD wait a bit before putting on a peptide based moisturizer. I try to avoid hydrolysis (breaking the peptide down into its amino acids) but I don’t stress this and I don’t think you should, especially with relatively mild acids like Ordinary and/or Medik8.
4. So next is my bath mix step (hydrates/peptides) 🙂 I’m getting mine Sukoyaka Suhada Urea Essence mine too FACE OneSkin and I mix them in my palm and spread the preparation all over my face, neck and décolleté. I really like these two together!!!
You can use the code penn20 for $20 off your first purchase of ANY product from their site (face cream, hormonal health, supplements, etc.). I encourage you to sign up for their NEWSLETTER and at least familiarize yourself with all they have to offer educationally. They are a great resource, whether or not you try their facial product…The other information on this site is PRICELESS.
My BODY routine
My current body SPF is close CoCo and Eve (SPF 50), It’s light and silky – non-sticky and protects well. Just find a body SPF you like – it’s so important!!
In the past I have recommended it Aveeno Protects and Moisturizes the Body SPF 60 (and still do)
Lately I’ve been using a stick to protect the back of my hands (try it!! It’s so easy, EFFECTIVE, mess free, portable and affordable!!)
“Penn20” Save 20% Sitewide at Dermelect
‘Penn’ Save 20% on Drmtlgy
“PENNZIIP” for Ziip discount
“PENN15” Save 15% on OneSkin
“Penny15” saves 15% on Naturium
Penn10 Save 10% on Dear Lucy
Here are some resources if you want to research this concept a little more:
FTC: Some links are affiliate. This means if you use them I will earn a commission.
Penn Smith Skincare participates in the Amazon Associates program. This is an affiliate program and all Amazon links are affiliates. If you choose to use them, I will receive a commission.
Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. The content provided on this blog is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Consult a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or skin-related diagnostic or treatment options. The information in this blog should not be considered a substitute for advice from a healthcare/skin professional. Statements made about specific products on this blog are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. It is important to check labels to determine if a product is right for you. Before starting any home treatment, consult a healthcare or skin care professional to determine if it is right for you.
