I am a huge skin care advocate! If you didn’t know, your skin is your largest organ. From age 16 until 23 I spent way too much money and time on makeup trying to “fix” my flaws. About five years ago I decided to switch that mentality and actually fix my skin concerns instead of painting over them. I reached out to an old school friend who had become a licensed esthetician. Her name is Morgan and she owns her own wonderful small business. All of the products I use can be purchased from her website: Morgan Nicole Skincare

I don’t have an amazing before and after picture to share. My skin hasn’t had a dramatic change. However, I’ve been getting compliments on my skin for years now. I haven’t felt the need to wear foundation or concealer in that time. I am more confident and happy with my how my natural skin looks.

I struggled with uneven skin texture, acne scars from college, and a dog bite scar on my lip. I still battle horrible hyperpigmentation (dark spots) from years of sun damage. While pregnant the hormones in my body created melasma on my face, also known as pregnancy mask. It doesn’t go away and worsens with pregnancy and sun exposure.

Life has been very hard on us the past few years, I firmly believe my dedication to my skincare routine is what keeps my skin looking youthful while I’ve mentally aged a decade.

My goal isn’t to prevent aging, it’s to make the transition gracefully while maintaining my self esteem.

I’ll be very transparent, I spend a good chunk of money on my skincare regimen. Morgan sells multiple lines so she can always create a regimen in your budget. But once you start using the good good products, it’s hard to go back. There are things I have to sacrifice to make it fit into our tight budget. I realized the more I spent on skincare products the less I was spending on makeup. I always fill in my brows and curl the lashes but it takes a very fancy occasion for me to apply any face makeup.

If you ask my esthetician I should be getting facials more often. But that’s another one of those things I have to sacrifice. Thankfully Morgan sells peels, enzymes and face masks that truly make a difference.

Although I love buying new skincare products having clear skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Also, buying expensive products doesn’t guarantee clear glowing skin either. Here are some “free” tips to help improve your skin:

Drink more water, hydration starts from the inside out - I drink a gallon a day
Hands away from the face - no resting, picking or popping (try two qtips to pop the monster if you can’t ignore it)
Wash your hands before washing your face
Change your pillow case at least once a week, ideally twice
Go makeup free as often as possible
Listen to your body’s cry for rest and prioritize sleep
Incorporate food from the earth into your diet - ideally minimizing junk food
Wash with a silicone sponge instead of cloth or your hands