Welcome to Skin + Me Stories – a series where we invite Skin + Me customers to share the good, bad and ugly bits of their personal skincare journeys so far. Today, we’re talking to Martha, better known as @marthasmoments, a Brighton-based blogger who uses her platform to share her love of skincare, style, food and travel.

Tell us about your skincare journey over the years. 

As a teenager I never had any major issues with my skin; acne was never a concern for me growing up. However when I hit my early 20s I started to experience regular breakouts which had a big effect on my confidence. I started to look into various skincare brands, spending money on products I didn’t know much about, unsure whether they would be effective for me and my skincare needs. Desperate to clear my spots, I continued to use multiple products in conjunction with one another – hoping for results. 

What mistakes have you made along the way?

This desperation led me to over complicate my skincare routine, using harsh products which in turn did nothing but irritate my skin. This was my biggest mistake, buying into products that I’d work for other people, without understanding my own personal skincare needs. 

How long have you been using Skin + Me? What’s your formula?

I have now been using Skin+Me for eight months, and will never turn back! My formula is currently 0.021% Tret, 1% Clindamycin and 4% Azelaic Acid. I love the way that my active ingredients get increased gradually, easing me into the products and not irritating my skin!

Thoughts on Skin + Me so far?

I have absolutely fallen in love with Skin+Me. They do all the hard work for you! They figure out exactly what your skin needs and gently build you up to the perfect formula for you. My skincare routine is no longer over complicated, it’s quick and easy and has completely transformed my skin. 

What are your Holy Grail products?

Cleanser: Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish 

Moisturiser: Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Cream

SPF: Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defence SPF 50

This is the perfect combination for me, alongside an oil for extra moisture – nothing too fancy, simple and honest skincare. 

What’s the number one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting to learn about skincare?

My advice would be, learn about your skin and your skin’s needs fully before buying into numerous products and over complicating your skincare routine. Strip it back! 

If you could gift a Skin + Me subscription to anyone, who would it be and why?

I would gift Skin+Me to my best friend who works in hospitality and has struggled with ‘maskne’ over the pandemic. She has gorgeous skin but is lazy with her skincare,I know she would love the ease and simplicity of Skin+Me and would clear up her mask breakouts in no time, giving her that confidence boost again!