Welcome to You Look Moist, a column in which Man Repeller asks cool people with glowing visages how they achieved their supreme hydration (amongst other things). Today’s installment features New York-based photographer Sarai Garcia.
How would you describe your skin?
I have combination skin that doesn’t scar easily. I often have to curb my urge to try out all the wonderful facial oils out there because when I do it throws off my balance of oil and dryness.
How would you describe your skincare approach in general?
My skincare is very minimal and low-maintenance. Whenever I try to add in extra steps, it messes with my skin and makes me break out.
Which skincare products are integral to your routine for achieving your ideal, glowing, well-moisturized complexion, and how/when do you use each of them?
I start my day with Be Transcendent Skin Cleanser for normal to dry skin. I’ll lather it for the length of whatever song I’m enjoying at the moment. Then I follow up with the SuperGoop Daily Moisturizer.
At the end of my day I wash my face with Alaffia Liquid African Black Soap with Tea Tree & Eucalyptus and then moisturize with Trader Joe’s Rose Facial Oil and Supreme Hydrating Eye Cream.
View this post on Instagram
What about makeup products?
I live for drugstore makeup! I try to keep my makeup simple and I prefer minimal coverage. I use Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream as my foundation. It’s light and lasts me most of the day. For concealer, I love LA Girl HD Pro Concealer. I’ve been using LA Girl since high school and it’s never let me down. Milani Baked Blush is my favorite blush because of its shimmer, which gives me a nice glow. Some days I even put a little on my eyelids for an extra pop. Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara is my go-to mascara because my lashes don’t go stiff no matter how much I pile on. It’s good for daily use.
What’s the cheapest product you use regularly and love?
Black Radiance Lip Gloss! It’s high shine and makes me feel unstoppable for the price of $3.
Is there anything you try to avoid, skincare- or makeup-wise?
I avoid cream makeup–blush cream, contour cream, etc.–because it starts to feel so heavy and gross throughout the day, and my skin pays for it. I definitely prefer powder products.
Any next-level tips, tricks, or services that you swear by to help you look “lit from within”?
Okay, I don’t want to be that person, but I swear after I became vegetarian my skin has so much more life–it could just be because I’m more hydrated, though. Also, SLEEP! It’s so important and the number of hours you’re getting is reflected in how your skin looks.
What’s your go-to product or trick for fixing a skin disaster?
Every now and then I have hormonal breakouts and my savior is Differin Acne Treatment. I apply it to the affected area and within 1-3 days I am back!
What’s something you wish your teenage self knew about taking care of your skin?
Daily sunscreen is essential!! Teenage me only wore it out at the beach or during other outdoor activities instead of as part of my daily routine.
Feature Images via Sarai Garcia.
