Skincare: The Ultimate No-Nonsense Guide by Caroline Hirons landed on my desk a month ago. Released earlier this year, the book is divided into five chapters that tackle what seems like the most Googled beauty questions. I tore through it immediately. Every other day, I find myself going over a certain page or using it to cross-check a new buzzword I see on my explore page.

Caroline Hirons gained her know-how from years of working at makeup counters (Space NK, Chantecaille, Liz Earle, and Clarins) and studying at Steiner Beauty School in Central London. She started her blog in 2010. Before influencers hunted down the formula to virality, Caroline gained the trust of 120 million followers for her straightforward advice.

Today, her YouTube channel enjoys a 250,000+ follower count. On the other hand, she has 530,000+ followers on Instagram who are treated to her IG Live sessions.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CGAqKmkpTJi/

I picked up the book from my shelf again to prepare for the wash of makeup and skincare sales coming. Something like the Watsons Card Grand Members Sale from October 15 to 18 will be one of the many upcoming opportunities to hoard what we need.

Let’s heed the wise words from Caroline, taken from the two chapters (“A Good Skincare Routine” and “Your Kit”) in her book that deal with skincare products. The items mentioned are my recommendations based on Caroline’s advice.

On cleansing: “Using a foaming cleanser on dry, parched, dehydrated skin is akin to skin torture and is a skincare crime of the highest order.”

Editor’s pick: Pixi by Petra Rose Cream Cleanser

On removing your makeup: “Think of all the old Hollywood movie stars and the footage of them removing their face with grease. It works.”

Editor’s pick: Yadah Green Tea Pure Cleansing Balm

On the multi-use abilities of facial mists: “If in doubt, SPRITZ.”

Editor’s Pick: BLK Skin-Hydrating Ultra-Fine Mist – Wondermelon

On the right order in which to apply your skincare: “Unless that is your everyday outfit of choice, I suggest you wear actual clothes (moisturizer) underneath your raincoat (SPF).”

Editor’s Pick: Neutrogena Skin Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer

On serums: “A serum is a product designed to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients directly into your skin… And if you’re going to spend money anywhere in your routine, it’s best spent here.”

Editor’s pick: Avène Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum

On the importance of eye products: “Applying your eye product last is like wearing your knickers over your trousers.”

Editor’s pick: Pond’s Age Miracle Eye Cream

On sunscreen: “If you want proper protection from the sun, you need to use a broad-spectrum sun protectant cream—a dedicated product that’s sole purpose is to protect your skin from the damage the sun does to it.”

Editor’s pick: VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Face & Body Shield 60

These words are a snippet of what Caroline writes. Skincare: The Ultimate No-Nonsense Guide also talks about various skin conditions, routines for different scenarios, and a glossary of beauty brands highlighting what Caroline likes (and dislikes) about them. You may avail of it via FullyBooked.