Complexion looking like it could use a double shot of espresso? We’ve got just the fix, courtesy of a new and entirely foolproof six-step routine that delivers big on radiance using a particularly special jitter-free blend of caffeine, plus antioxidant-rich vitamin C. It could be the one for you if you’re tackling a build up of dry, dead skin cells or are dealing with a general loss of overall vibrance, (which is pretty common as the seasons shift and the thermostats crank higher around this time of year). It’s an unusual routine in the way that it can be tweaked to work for every skin type, but—as it comes—it’s especially beneficial to those with combination or oily skin.
“This routine will help deep clean pores, energize the look of skin, hydrate and plump with hyaluronic acid, and provide a high-level of vitamin C for brightness and an immediate glow,” explains Youth To The People’s Director of Education, Laura Cline. “Skin will look more radiant and healthy straight away, but the long-term benefits are even more amazing if you keep it up.” The best part is that you only need around ten minutes max, twice a day, to reap its many rewards. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.
STEP ONE: PURIFY
It all starts with a clean slate. That means working up a light lather with the Superfood Cleanser both AM and PM to prevent a buildup of excess oils and old sebum, and allowing an extra 30 seconds to delicately massage it in so it can work its magic at each shift. A warm washcloth rinse and gentle pat down to dry—and step one is complete.
STEP TWO: NO SCRUBS
Exfoliation is always a good idea—except for when it’s not. This genius two-in-one Yerba Mate Resurfacing Energy Facial contains both physical and enzymatic exfoliants to sweep away lackluster skin and reveal an instantly retextured, soft-as-butter complexion in two minutes, without scrubbing. Concentrated caffeine from yerba mate and guayusa amplify product performance, meaning that this stuff gets to work instantly and is seriously potent—so you’ll want to start out using it once a week, and gradually work up to three times maximum.
STEP THREE: SECRET SAUCE
Vitamin C is infamously volatile. It breaks down when exposed to light or air, which means that most products containing it lose effectiveness before you’ve had a chance to open them. However! Youth To The People’s new 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum avoids the same conundrum using an ultra-stable triple-C complex that doesn’t activate until it hits the skin. Similar to freshly squeezed OJ, it’s best served for breakfast.
STEP FOUR: MOISTURE WHIP
Radiators and central heating are the worst culprits when it comes to drying out winter skin. Most modern systems literally suck moisture out of the room, leading to a litany of humdrum ailments i.e. flakiness, chapping, redness etcetera. Get ahead before the temperatures truly plummet by creating a moisture barrier with this lightweight Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream. It hydrates without any residual stickiness or cloying feeling.
STEP FIVE: SEAL IT IN
Two types of moisturizer might seem excessive, but you only need a few drops of this Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil to ensure a seamless finish and boost overall brilliance. Pro tip: warm the oil in your hands before applying and firmly press into skin to stimulate circulation and increase absorption.
STEP SIX: SPF
There’s a reason so many—if not all—skincare routines end with SPF. It’s essential every day of the year, even when it’s overcast, and in the winter. It’s still a non-negotiable if you’re working from home all day or have no plans to leave the sofa. If you need a reminder on why, check out this handy primer.
Written by Elsa de Berker for Youth To the People