Since I started writing for Project Vanity many years ago, I have learned to adopt a multi-step skincare regimen. There was even a point where I challenged myself to a 10-step Korean routine! And yes, I totally get the sensorial appeal of each luxurious step. But I will always have just as much appreciation for the straightforward but efficient skincare routine. Now after having tried five of Japanese brand BCL’s high-performance products, I have no doubt that they have the simplified skincare routine down pat.

When I’m super busy, my self-care tends to go out the window. It’s ironic because I know that I need it the most when I’m tired and stressed. And it does tend to show up on my skin because I neglect my skincare routine, doing very little else besides washing my face before bed. Considering that I have so much to do throughout the day, the idea of having to apply several different skincare products just does not appeal to me.

As a member of the Grease Girl Group, I have a love-hate relationship with my oily skin. Sebum production helps to keep my skin smooth so I look younger, but it’s unpleasant when my face looks greasy after a few hours! Oil control sheets and powder for touch-ups are must-haves in my makeup bag. With skin care, I tend to stay away from facial oil, and even once tried to remove moisturizer from my routine because some experts claim that moisturizer for oily skin will only make my face oilier.

I have a confession to make: last year, I started teaching myself to buy less makeup. I unfollowed a lot of cosmetic brands on social media, and stopped consuming makeup content from videos to blogs, and even newsletters. When I see a sale, I take a deep breath, close my eyes, and walk away. I still love makeup and that’s not gonna change, but I needed to stop an unhealthy shopping addiction that had me buying waaaay more than I need. What snapped me back to reality was seeing a drawer full of expired makeup that I hadn’t even used more than thrice. So this 2020, my New Year resolution is to stay committed to #ProjectPan and doing a low buy!

Layering skincare has its benefits, but how does one pull it off on super oily skin? I know - it sounds heavy, thick, and icky factoring in the humid climate and our overactive oil glands, but it is possible! The key lies in using gel-type skincare.

Unlike traditional creams, gel formulas are usually water-based and more lightweight. This allows for the product to get absorbed by the skin quickly, and doesn’t leave any sticky residue. Gel formulations aren’t just for moisturizers either - you can choose this option even for your facial cleansers, sunscreen, and masks. While you don't necessarily need to have a multiple step regimen, using gel products can make wearing skincare more comfortable for oily-skinned gals as well as those who don't like the feeling of heavy skincare. Need some recos? Here are some of our favorite gel products for different budgets!

We had potted aloe vera plants on our window sill while I was growing up. Aside from providing succulent décor, we would often use the plant itself for various skin, hair, and medicinal purposes. It was our family’s equivalent to Windex in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and hummus in You Don’t Mess with the Zohan. For us, it was the solution to burns, scratches, pimples, scars, thinning hair, and more! We would simply pluck a leaf from the plant, squeeze it on the affected area, and let it do the job.

It seems that scientists have been showing interest in this miracle plant, as well. Recent studies* have shown that aloe vera and cape aloe extracts have skin-healing and barrier-strengthening properties.