Hi Michelle, can you share your skincare routine with us?
Well, I have a very basic, almost minimalistic skincare routine. I do not like using a lot of products as my skin tends to feel clogged up if I apply too many layers.
- Cleansing - I use the oil cleansing method in the morning and in the evening. In Namibia we have an incredibly dry climate, so cleansing with oil helps to keep the skin healthy and protected. Any harsh cleansing products will strip your skin’s natural protective barrier - the Be You Skincare oil cleanses gently without the harsh side-effects of chemically- based products. I first wet my face with some water. I then use 2-3 drops of oil, warmed in the palm of my hands and massage it all over my face, including the eye area. I then use a soft and moistended flannel and cleanse my face until all traces of make-up are gone. Then I gently dry my skin with a face-towel. My skin feels smooth, soft, glowing - no crackly and dry or itchy and flaky sensations - my skin absolutely loves it. I often imagine my skin exclaiming: “Why did I have to endure so much abuse over the years…..finally she is using a method that makes me feel loved and appreciated!”
- Moisturizing - During the warmer months the oil cleansing method almost seems sufficient for my skin, for me not to have to apply additional moisturizer. But most days I opt for extra moisture (and of course the exquisite rose fragrance) and apply the Be You Skincare oil all over my face and neck. I only need 2 drops of oil which I usually warm in my hands. I then place my hands over my nose to inhale the soothing rose fragrance and only then do I massage it onto my face and neck.
- Gentle Exfoliation - I do believe that our skin needs exfoliation - but it should not be harsh as this can damage the skin and can cause inflammation, irritability or even increased sensitivity and redness. I use our Gentle Exfoliating Rice Scrub twice a week - all I need is half a teaspoon, mixed with some water and then I use gentle circular motions to exfoliate my entire skin as well as my chest and the back of my hands. Our Gentle Exfoliating Rice Scrub is a natural skin lightener, so it helps to reduce age spots and blemish marks. The exfoliation stimulates blood flow and prepares my skin for the application of the oil - the result - glowing skin all day long.
Do you use any additional skincare products for your face?
Yes, in the mornings I use a very light tinted BB cream with some additional SPF. In the evenings, I don’t use any additional products.
How did your skin change when starting your Be You Skincare routine?
I have an incredibly sensitive and reactive skin and I had struggled for years and trialled 100’s of brands from the most expensive brands to just using an aqeous cream. Needless to say, nothing worked. So I finally resorted to developing my own range and my skin changed from being very oily and reactive to being a combination skin type and finally a normal skin type. I have now used the product for almost 8 years and my skin looks and feels better than ever. I love the fact that I can use a single product for almost everything - I save so much time and of course money and I get to experience this incredible, luxurious and fragrant spa and beauty treatment with every single application.
Do you use the oil only for your face?
No, I use the Be You Skincare oil all over my body, especially around my heart and tummy area. I used to struggle with nervousness and anxiety and the soothing rose oil has done wonders for me and seems to be a gentle tonic for my nerves. It has definitely also brought some balance into my hormonal system, has eased cramps, nausea, and fatigue while reducing the pain associated with menstruation and Post-Menopausal Syndrome. As I have very thick and sometimes unruly hair - I also use the oil as an intensive treatment mask or hair serum - it has made quite a difference in the manageability of my hair.
My family loves the oil too. My husband uses it to ease his sensitive skin after shaving and before applying his underarm fragrance. My daughter uses it as make-up primer, hair serum, face oil, hand oil, massage oil, bath oil, lip oil…..she just loves it, and my son uses it mostly for his skin and hair.