This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at ICU (Japan) chapter.

Have you ever wondered how no one teaches you how to take care of your skin, even though most of us struggle with skin concerns at some point in our lives?

It’s not exactly something we talk over drinks or we learn in a class but we all may wonder how we could improve our skin problems.

This article is for us.

For you; who wants to learn more about skin care and what your peers use and love.

For the Spring series of this article, Akiko Bareng and Zulal Kara from ICU shared their skincare journey and current routine. (They both shared their full skincare routine with me which will be listed below.)

Woman doing skincare routine — Photo by Sora Shimazaki from Pexels

Interview with Akiko Bareng (September 22 student at ICU)

What is your skin type and when did you start to care about your skincare?

“ I have oily combination skin (more oily around the T-zone). When I was 15 to 16, I would see a dermatologist because I had pretty bad acne. I was a swimmer and the chemicals and sun damage may have affected my skin badly. I didn’t use sunscreen either.”

Why do you use the specific products you use?

“My face feels really clean after wearing makeup all day(Neutrogena Face Wash). I like to use the Clinique moisturizer before makeup so it keeps my skin moisturized throughout the day, and I like the Dior Capture Youth at night so it keeps my face moisturized while I’m sleeping. These products keep me moisturized, so I like to stick to what works for me.”

Are there any products you like to use occasionally?

“I have a special skin care day about once a week! I use face masks, eye patches, and a face roller. They help a lot with dark under eyes and moisturising your skin.”

Do you have any skin concerns?

“I don’t use intense face masks because it’s hard on my skin. But sometimes its hard to get all the debris out of your pores.”

Do you wear makeup/sunscreen?

“Yes, I wear makeup and spf everyday. It’s part of my routine and I start my day by doing my makeup.”

Do you recommend any products for Spring/Summer?

“I recommend using facial sprays to keep your face hydrated. I used to use the Evian facial spray a lot.”

Are you happy with your current skincare routine?

“Yes, I am. I would like to try out new products for blackheads in the future, if I find something. I’m interested in trying out the pore vacuum that I see in ads on instagram a lot lately!”

Skincare products in Akiko’s skincare routine

Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash : Neutrogena, Oil-Free Acne Wash, 9.1 fl oz (269 ml) – iHerb
Thayer’s Facial Toner Witch Hazel Rose Petal : Amazon.com: Thayer Witch Hazel, lavanda, 12, Default: Beauty
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion +
Dior Capture Youth Intense Rescue Serum
Rose Quartz Face Roller
Collagen Eye Masks
Face Masks

Facial spray for Spring & Summer!

Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray : Brumisateur® Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray – Evian | Sephora

Interview with Zulal Kara (September 22 Student at ICU)

Skin type & Skincare Journey

“I have extremely dry, sensitive skin. I started to extremely care about my skincare when the pandemic started so.. the end of 2019. I was introduced to ‘Skincare by Hyram’ who is a youtuber that teaches about skincare. I kind of have larger pores on my nose and used to get breakouts on my nose. I saw Hyram and he recommended products for specific skincare concerns and I followed them. And they worked!”

Why do you use the specific products you use?

“The products are made with simple ingredients for sensitive skin, and they are specific to my skin problems. Most of my products I use were recommended by Hyram and from my sister. I check amazon a lot too.”

Do you wear makeup/sunscreen?

“I wear makeup about 4-5 days a week. But I wear sunscreen EVERY SINGLE DAY.”

Do you have any skin concerns?

“I tend to break out on my nose and chin. So I use pimple patches on specific breakouts that I get occasionally”

Do you recommend any products for Spring/Summer?

“Vitamin C! I researched it, and I learned that if you apply vitamin C in the morning before spf, it helps to protect your skin and helps to brighten the skin. I’ve used vitamin C for 2~3 months now, and it does help with scars on your face. I definitely recommend the Ordinary vitamin C.”

What skincare has changed your skin?

“Double cleansing. I used to only use makeup wipes but now, I oil cleanse and double cleanse with a gel cleanser. It completely removes all the makeup from my skin now.”

Are you happy with your current skincare routine?

“Yes, I’m so happy with my current skincare routine! I’m glad I took the time to research to improve my skincare routine.”

Skincare products in Zulal’s skincare routine

Hatomugi Cleansing Oil
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Bioré Face Wash
Hatomugi Skin Conditioner
The Ordinary Vitamin CSusoension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant / The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% +HA
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
Nicew Sun Water Gel (Day)

Vitamin C for upcoming SUMMER!

The Ordinary Vitamin CSusoension 23% + HA Spheres 2% : Amazon.co.jp: The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + Ha Spheres 2% 30ml: Beauty

Applying sunscreen on hand — Photo by Moose Photos from Pexels

Summary of tips & recommendations

Trial & Error

Everyone’s skin is different, so doing your research and trying out different products will lead you to find what works best for you.

Use SPF

Sun damage can cause a lot of skin problems and by applying SPF everyday, you can avoid a lot of skin problems.

Hydrate your skin

Use toners, facial mists, and don’t use overly stripping cleansers! This will help your face to stay hydrated and moisturized.

Pair your SPF with Vitamin C

Applying vitamin C before spf may help with protecting your skin and reduce acne scars.

Enjoy Your Skincare Routine!!!

Skincare can be a very therapeutic and calming process. Have fun with it, experiment with it, be safe with it.

What products do you use in your skincare routine? What would you like to learn more about skincare?

There’s so much we could share with each other.

NOTE: If you have any serious skin problems or concerns, PLEASE consult with a dermatologist or skin care professional.

Special Thanks to Akiko Bareng and Zulal Kara for sharing their skincare journey!

What’s Your Skincare Routine? -Spring Edition