“I’ve always loved indulging in skincare, because the state of one’s skin makes a strong first impression. After living in Tokyo for two years and being surrounded by women who are beauty fanatics (with the skin to show for it), my routine has now grown to comprise at least 12 steps for day, and another 13 for night. With it, there’s no need for makeup base or foundation. Trust me – and don’t call me crazy.”
A cleanser that balances and controls sebum, so my combination skin won’t become too oily throughout the day.
Tones and gets rid of surface dead skin cells for a more radiant complexion.
See: Why a toner isn’t just another step in your skincare routine.
An essence-in-lotion that immediately nourishes skin, making it look plumper and bouncier.
Lactic acid and yeast gently exfoliate and repair skin damage for a smoother complexion.
Day products should have instant results, and this creamy serum immediately hydrates and brightens.
Micro-beads hide dark circles and freshen up the eye area.
Replenishes moisture and prevents overproduction of sebum due to dehydration.
Can’t live without this and its healing and strengthening properties – especially key since all the products I test at work can cause irritation and sensitivity.
Extremely hydrating yet so light, it feels like I’ve got nothing on.
Sunscreen is a must, and the ones I use always have a minimum protection level of SPF50 and PA++++.
See: Sunscreens that double up as moisturisers, colour correctors & serums
A protective treatment that strengthens and prevents lash breakage.
Tinted oils treat my puckers, while lending a natural rosiness.
A makeup remover that effectively gets rid of all traces of stubborn sunscreen.
Double cleansing not only removes makeup, but also pollution, oil and other impurities built up throughout the day.
I apply a different facial mask every night to give my complexion an extra boost.
I’ve discovered that using this anti-acne wash post-mask keeps breakouts away.
See: 3 reasons why Dr Georgia Lee loves the Ultherapy facial treatment
This multifunctional softener clarifies, hydrates and brightens skin.
Find out how the Synactif range detoxes your skin to improve complexion.
It tightens skin, boosts firmness and reduces the appearance of pores.
An ultra gentle nightly peel to refine skin, leaving it smoother, softer and more luminous in the AM.
Lightens pigmentation and evens skin tone after about four weeks.
Said to “trick” skin into thinking it’s had sufficient rest – great for night owls like me.
See: Dior’s top makeup artist recommends the best beauty products to use for a night out
Yes, I’m obsessed with the Japanese practice of double moisturising, especially when skin loses moisture more easily at night.
Besides toning, firming and softening the look of fine lines, this creates a shield over skin to protect and prevent moisture loss.
A do-it-all that works on sagging, dark circles, puffiness and free radical damage.
Two coats of this acts like a leave-on mask for lips, healing and softening them overnight.
An adapted version first appeared in Female’s September 2016 issue.
Like this? Check out our beauty editor’s tips on getting glowing skin fast, why a transversal serum should be part of your skincare routine, and the best foundations for flawless skin.