• Golden's Sunrays
  • Posts
  • From Sun-damaged to skin managed: The Kbeauty products that helped heal my skin

From Sun-damaged to skin managed: The Kbeauty products that helped heal my skin

Author

Golden Jaye
February 01, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes


“What’s wrong with your face?”

Those were the words that hit me like a reality check, asked by my best guy friend who's known me since I was 18. I hadn’t seen him in 3 years and upon returning to Michigan, his raw concern echoed in a way only he could deliver, snapping me out of denial. My skin was not in a good place – darkened by hyperpigmentation from sun damage.

That moment sparked a journey: from self-realization to becoming an esthetician to heal my own skin. After hundreds spent on Proactiv kits and other skincare, visiting multiple dermatologists, and getting chemical peels from highly praised Russian estheticians, you know what turned it all around?

Korean beauty products.

Yes, that’s right. I was in Los Angeles, living in the land of K-Spas and sheet masks ( cause Ktown was and still is my spot) without a proper skincare routine or the essential shield of sunscreen. My solution was a bus ride away and there I was writing a tale of negligence, one that many of us can relate to—unaware of the long-term consequences. Instead of tapping into Kbeauty sooner, I exposed my skin to the elements without a second thought.

And now I know better.

Here I am sharing the secrets of my favorite gems that transformed my skincare game.

The Essentials: My A1 K-Beauty Routine! ( for my sun-damaged skin)


TLDR: My holy grail skincare:  

◾Moisturizer: Klairs Vitamin E mask (my hands down favorite moisturizer)

◾ Black Girl Sunscreen (still reigns supreme)

Skincare Chronicles: Nourishing My Dry/Combination Skin in Michigan

Moving back to Michigan during the fall was not only a seasonal transformation but an environmental change for me too. It was trial and error for a moment but let’s get into it. Here’s my favorite Korean skincare products, specially curated for my sun-damaged, dry/combination skin in preparation for the harsher and dryer weather.

Switching Up the Cleansing Game:

First on the list, I've bid farewell to my regular cleanser and welcomed the Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm for my morning routine. Its oil-based formula gently removes impurities while delivering a burst of nourishment to my skin. In the evening, I indulge in the Hanskin AHA Pore Cleansing Oil to effectively melt away the day's makeup and grime.

The Hydration Hype:

To combat the dryness, I've introduced the Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner into my routine. Packed with hydrating green tea goodness, it preps my skin for the layers to come. I switch between a few toners - this one, SomeByMi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Toner and my absolute favorite from day 1 - Klairs Supple Preparation Toner.

Ampoule-wise, the Multi Solution Triple V Ampoule and the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drops take center stage. These potent elixirs are my secret weapons against dullness, infusing my skin with a revitalizing energy boost.

AHA Exfoliation for Radiance:

For that extra glow, I've incorporated the Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence into my routine. This AHA exfoliant is a game-changer, helping to slough off dead skin cells and promote a brighter complexion—perfect for combating hyperpigmentation.

Moisture Lockdown:

My go-to moisturizer is the Klairs Vitamin E Mask. This gem not only hydrates but also works overnight to replenish and revitalize my skin. It's my hands-down favorite, and my skin absolutely loves it. Please, please, please pair it with the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin drops. This is a duo I use all year round.

Sunscreen Royalty:

Fall or not, sunscreen reigns supreme! The Black Girl Sunscreen continues to be my trusted companion, offering sun protection without the dreaded white cast.

My journey as a Korean skincare specialist is more than a professional pursuit; it's a personal mission. The revival of my skin serves as a testament to the transformative power of K-Beauty. These products have become the pillars of my routine, each one playing a vital role in reclaiming the glow that sun-damage tried to burn.

These skincare essentials were sourced from the wonderful Sokoglam at the time but now I have my own shop selling the exact products that helped me. While availability may vary, I encourage you to explore and find products that resonate with your skin's needs. Here's to starting a routine for glowing, happy skin!💁🏾‍♀️

P.S: Now when my friend asks, “What’s wrong with your face?” I know he’s referring to my RBF ( resting bitch face).

Unforgettably yours,

Golden Jaye, LMT | LE

Reply

or to participate.