Sephora’s upcoming Savings Event begins Friday, November 1st for Rouge members and November 5th for VIB and Insider members. I’m not one to chase sales which could leave me too vulnerable to overspending. Having two kids in college and saving for retirement, I’m on a tight budget. That said, I won’t pass up a bargain on items I plan to replenish anyway.
My skin has always leaned dry and since hitting menopause, my already dry skin has become extremely dry and sensitized. In fact, when I first entered menopause, seemingly overnight I experienced a reaction to my usual skincare products resulting in extreme sensitivity, flakiness and discoloration. My dermatologist recommended a pared down skin routine that consisted of fragrance free, cream cleanser and a gentle moisturizer. After almost 2 years of rebuilding my skin barrier, my skin continues to be dry and prone to flakiness, but I’ve since added a few other skincare products to my routine. Here are a few of my dry skin friendly favs (including a makeup product) that I plan to pick up at the Sephora savings event.
First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is such a must have for me that I buy the value size during the savings event. It removes makeup (after a double cleanse) without stripping and I can use around my eyes with little irritation. The rich creamy texture leaves my skin feeling soothed and relieved at the end of the day.
This hydrating toner from First Aid Beauty is another must have and was a life line when my skin was going through it! Its soothing, milky texture adds another layer of moisture and relief. I use as part of my cleansing routine at night and in the am to prep my skin for serums and moisturizers. I also top my skin with this after an occasional exfoliating treatment to soothe, calm and nip any irritation in the bud.
A hydrating serum is also a must have in my routine. I find that hyaluronic acids to be gentle and a way to attract and retain moisture my dry skin craves. The Ordinary offers a no nonsense, affordable option.
Given the price tag of Drunk Elephant’s Bora Barrier Repair Cream, I didn’t want to love this. But the rich, thick creamy texture is another item that is soothing (there’s that word again, I sense a theme) to my skin. It has been an essential part of my battle with flakiness.
Another pricey item, which is why I only purchase when I can find on sale. I’ve been intrigue with Westman Atelier products since entering my 50’s. The items I’ve tried and sampled in store seem to be dry skin friendly, have a smooth, elegant and dewy finish that appeals to my skin/makeup preferences. The Skincare Complexion Drops are no exception. The coverage is light but buildable and doesn’t settle into my fine lines. It offers a polished look without appearing overdone. The shade range is pretty decent for a luxury brand and since this is more of a skin tint, the shade matching is a little more forgiving. I have to say, that the shade match for me is pretty on point and even matches my undertones which is rare (I’m neutral to warm). I only use occasionally because of the price point. But this is very much a must have in my dry skin beauty collection.
Now that my skin barrier is on the road to recovery, I’ve been able to re-introduce a some skincare actives into my routine. The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel pads are recommended daily, however, I only use occasionally, weekly at night only and I’m sure to follow with First Aid Beauty’s hydrating toner and the Drunk Elephant moisturizer. I do find the pads to help when I see any signs of flakiness.
I hope you find this helpful. Happy shopping if you plan to partake in Sephora’s 2024 Saving Event. And share your recommendations, tips and any affordable alternatives in the comments.
Disclaimer: I’m not a skincare expert or professional. I’m only sharing favorites that have helped me during my menopausal skincare journey. Also, this post is not sponsored and I am not receiving any compensation.