By Shweta Tanwar Mukherjee | Founder, Shvtas

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As a mom juggling 10 things before breakfast, I know how tempting it is to skip skincare. But trust me — five mindful minutes with the right products can transform not just your skin, but your energy for the day.

Here’s my no-fuss, clean and conscious morning skincare ritual — specially curated for oily, sensitive, and urban skin.

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Step 1: Gentle Cleanse with Tea Tree Face Wash (The Body Shop)

I begin by rinsing my face with cold water and using a pea-sized amount of The Body Shop's Tea Tree Face Wash.

• It’s clean, cruelty-free, and perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.

• Tea tree helps reduce excess sebum and keeps my pores calm and clear.

Ayurveda Tip: Splash your face with cold or copper-charged water (kept overnight) to tone and balance pitta energy.

 

Step 2: Oil-Free Moisture & Massage

Yes, even oily skin needs hydration! I follow up with a light, oil-free moisturizer (like Neutrogena Hydro Boost or Minimalist Sepicalm) and gently massage it in using upward strokes.

• This step improves circulation and lymphatic drainage.

• A quick 2-minute face massage releases morning puffiness and gives a natural glow.

Energy Tip: While massaging, take a deep breath. Set your intention for the day. It’s your 2-minute mindfulness pocket.

 

Step 3: Mild Cleanser (Optional Reset)

If I’ve worked out or sweated a lot before this routine, I sometimes double-cleanse using a mild, pH-balanced cleanser like Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser.

• Helps refresh the skin without over-stripping.

Listen to your skin. Over-washing oily skin can backfire. Twice a day is usually enough.

 Step 4: Niacinamide for Oil Control & Glow

After my skin is dry, I apply a few drops of niacinamide serum (I trust Minimalist 10% Niacinamide) to:

• Refine pores

• Reduce redness and blemishes

• Brighten dull, tired skin

Bonus: It also strengthens your skin barrier — something city moms need, thanks to pollution and stress.

 

Step 5: Sunscreen — Non-Negotiable!

No matter how rushed the morning is, I never skip sunscreen.
My current favorite? Re’equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch SPF 50.

• Lightweight

• Leaves zero white cast

• Controls oil and sweat

Modern Must + Ancient Wisdom: Ayurveda recommends shielding skin from strong sun (especially for pitta skin) — modern sunscreens just make it easier!

 

Quick Recap: My AM Routine

1. Cold splash + Tea Tree Face Wash

2. Oil-free moisturizer + 2-min massage

3. Optional: Mild Cleanser (if needed)

4. Niacinamide serum

5. Lightweight SPF 50 sunscreen

 

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Skin

Your skincare ritual can be your sacred start. Even five slow, loving minutes in the mirror can make you feel centred, radiant, and calm.

You deserve that time, mama.
Let this be your daily reminder: taking care of yourself is the first act of taking care of your family.

Tell me — what’s your go-to skincare product you can’t live without?
Let’s share our glow tips in the comments