Tolu Agoro is the Brand Ambassador for Cantu Beauty and 2019 Curl Awards winner. Not only does she have fabulous hair but she also has amazing skin. She took time out to tell us about her skincare journey.
I first came across skincare products when I was in University. During this period I became really conscious of my skin, as I was in the process of finding and understanding myself and wanted to know what was best for my overall health and beauty as an independent person. Prior to this, I honestly just used the skincare products that everyone in my household used.
My skincare influences were mainly my friends who wore makeup frequently. I personally didn’t start wearing makeup until I was aged 21, and even then it was only for special occasions. I always admired how clear and smooth my friends’ skin appeared – it was gorgeous and dewy – and I never understood their need for makeup. However, I soon realised that having great skin was the gateway to flawless makeup. I diligently followed their skin routines and trialled some of the products they used. In terms of my body care. I loved anything with cocoa butter in it for skin moisturisers - I used the Palmer’s brand, which became my staple product.
As a teen, my entry into skincare products was via Clearasil, I used to buy their Exfoliator, Face Wash and I’d use the skin pads when necessary. I’ve been using a glycerin with Rose Water Toner since my teens until now. There was a period when I experienced a really bad skin breakout, and when I spoke to a skin consultant at Boots they recommended a dry skin kit from Clinique. It worked a treat and my skin repaired very well, so I continued with the range and eventually switched to a different formula once my skin settled down.
Over the years I have learnt that my skin is resilient, as I have really put it through quite harsh changes. However, when it is cared for it will react to products favourably. I’ve also learned that the state of my skin is often a clear indication of how good or bad my diet has been - when I’m hydrated and eating nutritious foods, my skin works well with products.
My skincare regime has evolved since my teens, as I am a lot more patient and attentive to my skin. I have also now separated my facial skin routine to my body’s. The products I use for my face are the ones with minimal ingredients that I can pronounce and research. I start my facial skin care routine with a Jade Roller by Lush, which smells divine! Next, I tone with glycerin & rose water, which moisturises and gives me a lovely dewy glow. For my body I make my own shea butter mix or use Dream Cream by Lush for the winter. During the summer I use organic coconut oil from an uncle’s farm in Nigeria.
The skincare products I use now are Glycerin & Rose Water from Boots, Aloe Vera Gel from Aloe Pura, Skin Butter from Lush. I also use Glossier’s Super Bounce Serum and Superdrug’s B.Hydrated Hualuronic Acid.
