Fall Beauty: Skincare Favorites

In the past few years, I've ramped up my skincare regime and dialed in what works for my skin type (dry/combination). While an effective skincare routine is not low maintenance, the preemptive measures in taking care of your skin is an investment. Recently, I had the fun opportunity of being a judge for the AOL.com Best of Fall Beauty Awards in the category of skincare! From the dozens of products I tested, below are my favorites:

Skincare Favorites

L-R: Nordstrom marble tray, First Aid Beauty face cleanser, Murad exfoliant,

First Aid Beauty toner pads, Josie Maran skin oil, Murad night cream, C.O. Bigelow lip balm

Best Face Wash

First Aid Beauty face cleanser - I love this cleanser! It's gentle enough to use in the morning, yet it also removes ALL my makeup. It's fragrance free, and leaves no residue on the face. My skin feels so clean after, but not to the point where it feels stripped.

Best Exfoliant

Murad exfoliant - Usually I prefer chemical exfoliants over physical exfoliants (like scrubs), because scrubbing tends to irritate my skin and only exfoliate the top layer. While this product has jojoba beads, it's so fine that it doesn't bother my skin. Plus, there are three exfoliating acids to really rid dead skin. I only use this at night once every other day after cleansing.

Best Toner

First Aid Beauty toner pads - These pads are so convenient. They're soaked in the toner, and alcohol and fragrance free. The pads have a textured side, which gives me more control in targeting my t-zone area.

Best Skin Oil

Josie Maran argan oil - My ultimate favorite is the Sunday Riley "Juno" skin oil, but that is rather pricey. This one is pure argan oil, which is nice that there's no fillers. I layer it under moisturizer at night, especially during cold and dry wintertimes.

Best Night Cream

Murad night cream - The texture of this night cream is so luxurious! It's creamy and thick, but just airy enough and not greasy. When I apply this, it feel like my skin is drinking in the moisture, and it keeps skin hydrated and supple all night.

Best Lip Balm

C.O. Bigelow lip balm - Let's not forget the lips! When it comes to products, I'm big on packaging, not only for aesthetics, but mostly for utility. I don't like dipping my fingers into products for sanitary reasons, and this applies to chapsticks as well. That being said, I like the easy and clean applicator for this lip balm, and the light mint scent is pleasant.

Shop my favorite fall skincare products:

What is your favorite skincare product right now? Let me know in the comments! I always love discovering new products.