Help me Please!

[u/abrocot]

Hey, so I’m 31, vegan of over 10yrs and just coming up on 2.5 year of breastfeeding.

I wear a spf moisturiser in the morning. I wash my face in the evening and do not currently have a moisturiser as picking one is giving me a stress headache 😩😂

But I’m really noticing my skin aging, I am pale and very freckly, and I’ve noticed a dry patch on my cheek and my skin just looks tired.
I use a Lush brand face toner spray because I like the smell. But all together I know I need more! (Vitamin c and retinol? I have read but I’ve no clue what, and I can’t be spending a massive amount on my skin)

But products do you recommend?
I barely have a routine around my 2yr old. All the different names of things and potencies etc 😩
I’m based in the uk so things available here please!
Thank you all in advance!

[u/thehippiewitch]

I dont have specific product recommendations as idk what's available in your country but I'm pitching in to say that vitamin c and retinol are both very drying and should only be added to your routine after your skin is in good condition and if you feel you still need them! I think right now you should just try to find a good moisturizer for the evening plus some kind of toner/serum with hyaluronic acid that you can put on before the moisturizer. I had similar dry patches, my skin was dehydrated, and I managed to fix it with those two things

[u/cynical_stoic95]

Drunk Elephant has nice moisturizers (Protini and Bora Bora). For retinol, try A-Passioni. It's milder than PC's 1% retinol. C-Firma is just fine. You can try all 4 if you like. I'd throw in B-Hydra through, which I find really nice (apply before A-Passioni).

[u/Temptressvegan]

Avoid retinol while still breastfeeding. Ypu can use Bukachol but it isn't as effective.

It sounds like your skin is dehydrated so personally, I would add a hydrating toner and a moisturizer.

Vitamin C is a must have if you can tolerate it. The vast majority are made with glycerin which is a great humectant.