Since Skin + Me launched in 2020, we’ve been obsessed with delivering an accessible way for everyone to tackle their skin goals once and for all, with powerful personalised solutions that really work.

Stories from our smart, loyal community of subscribers is what we live for. So, this January we want to shine a light on the inspiring journey of some of our customers who are celebrating great personal progress, just like you, with our #PositivePersonalProgress campaign. 

Next in our series, we chat to Cipriana, who’s been on her Skin + Me Journey since November 2020. Cipriana knows a thing or two about hyperpigmentation, getting through acne, purging and treats her skin like a bank account, by investing wisely. Searching for some sound skincare advice? You’ve come to the right place.

Skin + Me: Hi Cipriana! We know from your video – and your beautifully curated instagram that you’ve always taken an interest in looking after your skin. You note yourself that ‘your skin will only be as good as your skincare routine.’ How long did it take you to work out what was best for your skin and switch to Skin + Me?

Cipriana: Yes, that is absolutely right because in the past I used a product for a few weeks or even days. I’d see results and then  ‘relax’ by becoming inconsistent with my day and night routine. Obviously the acne would come back because I wasn’t following up. Honestly, it took me years to understand that and a lot of self-discipline. I found Skin + Me via Instagram from a content creator @skinacidtrip, who was showing her results monthly and it got me intrigued.

Skin + Me: Were you always an advocate for simple, science-led skincare or have trends tempted you along the way?

Cipriana: I’m always for simple skincare, straight-forward products and a straight-forward routine. I’m not just putting the word out there for people with acne, but for the everyday consumer with ‘normal’ skin too. I tend not to jump on a bandwagon, as I haven’t had good experiences on following trends! I usually just stick to what my skin likes.

Skin + Me: Tell us more about treating your combined focus of reducing hyperpigmentation and acne at the same time? 

Cipriana: Having a multitasking product is bliss! Especially after a full, busy day. For me, a three-step routine always wins – Cleanse, treat, moisturise.

Skin + Me: Purging was a challenge for you and you returned to using your Daily Doser when you felt ready. We often overlook the psychological effect the health of our skin can have on our day-to-day life. What made you feel ready to start again and how did you feel when positive results followed after three months?

Cipriana:  Purging can make you feel like another product may be failing you again, the disappointment of looking at your skin is huge and the mental pressure is just next level.  Even though I could’ve been on the search for another solution again when that happened to me, I took a step back and analysed what I was doing wrong instead of blaming the treatment. I realised that I was compromising my skin with other products instead of letting the Daily Doser do its job. I switched to focus on using gentler cleansers, hydrating with occlusive moisturisers and protecting my skin daily with SPF. That’s when I felt comfortable introducing the Daily Doser back into my routine, and saw results.

Skin + Me: You’ve addressed tackling acne in the proactive sense on your own social media channels, championing great skincare over filters. You talk about putting skin first, before makeup. What does that authentic skin confidence mean to you and how can it help others?

Cipriana: I come from a family of six girls, I’m the youngest and was the only one with acne. Seeing my sisters with clear skin made me cover mine with makeup constantly. After learning to be more consistent with my routine and wellbeing, I feel that sharing the process of achieving healthy skin with others is important. 

Now, I enjoy wearing makeup for occasions like parties or going out. Previously, I was wearing makeup because I wasn’t confident. I’d wear it even if I was just going to the shops for five minutes or just staying at home. 

My aim is to help people enjoy their journey, because being sad and frustrated never did anyone any favours. The more you learn and enjoy the journey, the more positive results will come of it.

Skin + Me: You take time to drink good tea, own a beautiful cat and compare facial massage to ‘yoga for the skin.’ Do you have any other calming or feel-good tips (skincare or otherwise!) you share here?

Cipriana:  Ha ha! Besides creating skincare content and my cat? It’s true I like yoga, I’ve compared it with a face massage because they are both relaxing and therapeutic.

I try to meditate five minutes before bed after my skincare routine. I like to dance (not great moves), cook (but I’m not a baker at all) and herbal teas are my go-to as I don’t drink coffee.

I’m a massive plant lover. I have a greenhouse and every year we grow our own veggies of choice. I read skincare books from Jennifer Rocks, Caroline Hirons and Liz Earle. I  like to go for a run listening to music when it’s not too dark outside, at least twenty minutes when I can.

Skin + Me: When it comes to products and skincare treatments you’ve talked about patience and consistency. I think we sometimes forget progress doesn’t always follow in a straight line but we get there in the end. Is recognising this – or anything else – the key to #positivepersonalprogress for you?

Cipriana: Yes absolutely, patience and consistency helped me see progress – #positivepersonalprogress is like winning the skincare lottery.

 More #positivepersonalprogress

Thanks to Cipriana for being part of our campaign, check out more on our social channels and stay locked for more uplifting #positivepersonalprogress stories here throughout the month.

New to Skin + Me? Click here to start your healthier, happier skin consultation.

On your Skin + Me journey? Learn more about our Invite a Friend Charity initiative here