Editor’s Note: Mina Allen, a news staff writer for The Eagle, was interviewed for this article prior to joining staff. Allen was not involved with the reporting, writing or editing of this story.
With skin care hacks trending on TikTok, many people are striving for glowing, effortlessly smooth skin. While skin care can sometimes be portrayed as inaccessible when celebrities promote the most expensive products on the market, these American University students keep it simple with their skin care routines.
Sophia Nayyar, a freshman in the School of Public Affairs, uses Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, followed by Vanicream Moisturizing Cream. These are both products created for dry skin. When spending time outdoors, she protects her skin with Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen (SPF 70).
In searching for the most effective products, Nayyar took advice from her dermatologist and did her own research on affordable products with natural, non-harmful ingredients. Because of her sensitive skin, Nayyar prefers to buy products that are free from fragrances, preservatives, dyes and sulfates. She also gravitates toward gentle products that contain sunscreen.
It’s been two years since the start of her skin care journey, and Nayyar said that her skin is noticeably clearer with fewer bumps and blemishes. She said it is also less sensitive than it has been in the past.
Her advice for others looking into skin care? Keep it simple.
“Lots of skin care products are gimmicks,” Nayyar said.
Mina Allen, a freshman in the School of Communication, follows a different regimen, depending on the day. To help with her dry skin, Allen first applies oil to her face before using any other products. She uses Bio-Oil and Kneipp Bio Oil to reduce the appearance of her acne scars. To keep her skin hydrated, she uses the Momo Puri toner and innisfree Green Tea Moisture-Balancing Cream.
Allen currently lives in Japan, where the Momo Puri brand is popular. The Momo Puri toner is a blend of peach ceramide, a type of waxy lipid molecule, and lactic acid.
Kate Happy, a freshman in the School of International Service, has a five-to-six step skin-care routine, which she does three times a week. She washes her face with CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser in the morning and at night and uses the Glossier Solution, a liquid chemical exfoliator.
The Glossier Solution contains a blend of skin care acids that get rid of dead skin cells to reveal smoother, softer skin. Since using the solution, she said her skin appears to have a softer, more natural glow.
Skin care doesn’t have to be a complex routine, nor does it have to break the bank. Sometimes all it takes is a little research for your specific skin type and a quick trip to the local drugstore.
