'My name is Lis Eriksson [@liseriksson] and I'm originally from Sweden, but have been living and working in London for the past 16 years. I run a fashion wholesale and PR agency called Sewn Agency that specializes in introducing new brands and designers to the UK. I also recently started a streetwear-inspired womenswear label called This Is Welcome. Running two businesses tends to keep me quite busy, but I really enjoy it all, even the days it drives me a bit mad.
I had practically zero skin issues until a few years ago. But in my late 20s to early 30s, all of a sudden I broke out in what I suppose people would call hormonal adult acne. Then it got worse—I was randomly breaking out in rashes from deodorants, shampoos, you name it. Even products I had been using for ages didn't suit me anymore. Skin's always been a priority for—I grew up watching my mom get facials every month—but I wasn't prepared for such a radical change in what products I needed. With some avid Googling, I eventually found some simple stuff that works and keeps my skin calm and fairly happy—even when things get a bit hectic with too much travel and work.
In the morning, I use Algenist Gentle Rejuvenating Cleanser with my Clarisonic in the shower—it works better than any facial scrub I've tried. Then if I have any spots, I use Malin + Goetz Acne Treatment Daytime and a natural simple serum like Nuxe Nuxellence Jeunesse. If I feel dehydrated, I'll use Malin + Goetz Vitamin E Face Moisturizer. I find salicylic acid to be the only thing that works but isn't too abrasive. It really heals while treating any unwanted breakouts.
Then at night, my secret is the double cleanse. It sounds laborious, but if you live around lots of pollution and wear any degree of makeup, it's worth a try. First I use a baby wipe all over my face—it helps you get more out of both your 'fancy' cleanser and whatever creams you put on after. Then I'll use Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Cleansing Oil because it's a really good oil-based cleanser that rinses off really easily.I don't use a toner, so instead, I'll revert to my mom's old trick of splashing my face with cold water to close the pores. It's almost like you give yourself a mini facial.
If I'm not too tired, I put Eve Lom's Rescue Mask on any bad patches of skin and a rehydrating mask on the rest of my face. Then I'll use Malin + Goetz's Acne Treatment Nighttime if I have any particular nasties. Otherwise salicylic gel where needed and Perricone MD High Potency Evening Repair for nighttime. On my eyes, I particularly like Kiehl's Creamy Avocado Eye Treatment—it's affordable, does the job, and doesn't smudge everywhere, which is important if you wear contact lenses. For acne scarring, there's this silicone based gel that doesn't make you brake out called Dermatix. It's actually for stretch marks or normal scarring but it really really works.
For makeup, I currently use Nars Pro-Prime Pore-Refining Primer. I try to use as little foundation as possible and only cover areas that need covering. Vichy Dermablend is great for matte coverage and Becca Ultimate Coverage Complexion Crème for something a bit more dewy. I find that I don't need to use concealer with either of these, which is a bonus. Then I use YSL Touche Éclat under my eyes and Becca's Mineral Blush in Flowerchild every day. I highlight with Becca Shimmering Skin Protector on my cheekbones and under the brows. My lip color is usually Lipstick Queen Oxymoron with Clinique Superbalm on top. I think I have these superbalms in every shade—I'm addicted. Recently, I discovered Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara. I like the thin brush wand and it stays on all day, but comes off easily. There's no need to rub the delicate skin around your eyes when removing. Brow gel is better for my eyebrows than a pen. You can get cheaper pharmacy ones, but I currently use Eyeko.
My hair I keep super simple. I have quite fine hair—but lots of it—so I need a bit of volume. I use R+Co. Dallas Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner, then light Moroccan oil when it's wet, twist it up in a bun, let it air dry for a bit, and then let it out and brush it through.
I counteract looking like I'm wearing as little makeup as possible with my nails. I always have some kind of crazy nail art patterns done at Creative Nails on Kingsland Road in my area. It's hard to find good and affordable nail bars in London, but this is one of them.
If I try anything new, I won't just buy the whole bottle, but will ask for a sample or a small pot at Space NK or whatever store I'm in. You will save yourself a fortune and your skin a lot of agony—so always, always ask.”
—as told to ITG
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