January's Empties — Hitting Pan
- Hilary Burke
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
January felt like it had 8,391 days, not 31. And somehow, I managed to fly through products right along with it. There’s something deeply satisfying about hitting pan, especially with skincare. It feels like proof that I showed up.
After my mom died in June 2024, I made a quiet commitment to my skin and to self-care as a form of steadiness and devotion. I haven’t slowed down since.
These are the skincare products I finished during the long, cold stretch of January.
It must have been the dry winter air, because I hit pan on two under-eye favorites last month. Nothing gives your age away faster than the skin under your eyes. Between genetics (hello darker pigmentation), stress, and life doing what life does, this area requires commitment and consistency.
Quite possibly skincare’s greatest gift to under-eye darkness. This powerful serum delivers intense hydration while helping improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles using cutting-edge peptides and Hydrinity’s signature hyaluronic blend.
I love this serum so much that I always have a backup. I don’t miss a day—or a night—without it.
Restock: ✔️
Medical-grade skincare’s answer to crow’s feet, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. I’m a longtime fan of SkinBetter, and adding this targeted eye cream to both my morning and nighttime routines has made a noticeable difference.
Packed with peptides, vitamins, niacinamide, and firming actives, this cream supports the delicate eye area in a way that feels effective without being aggressive.
Restock: ✔️
If you know me, you know I am deeply committed to the pre-cleansing step at night. This balm-to-milk cleanser effortlessly removes makeup, SPF, dirt, and oil—and it smells incredible. Full spa-level vibes.
Blended with intention, its aromatherapeutic and Reiki-inspired properties ground me instantly, calming both skin and spirit. With notes of cardamom, Tulsi, and French green clay, it feels luxe and nurturing every single time.
Another product I never let myself run out of.
Restock: ✔️
Rodan + Fields REVERSE Deep Exfoliating Cleanser
This was one of the first products that introduced me to a consistent skincare routine, and I still reach for it years later. While my routine has evolved and expanded, this cleanser remains a staple.
It’s a skin-brightening salicylic acid cleanser with a creamy, hydrating texture that gently exfoliates while removing makeup, SPF, and the day’s buildup. I use it nightly—and yes, I always have a backup.
Restock: ✔️
If you don’t think oral care is part of skincare, we may need a side conversation.
The mouth is the gateway to the body, directly impacting inflammation, skin health, and the skin barrier. Poor oral hygiene can allow bacteria into the bloodstream, contributing to acne, redness, and a dull complexion.
This rinse is now a daily, non-negotiable part of my skincare routine.
Restock: ✔️
Until a few years ago, I defaulted to shaving cream simply because it’s what I knew. Enter eos (Evolution of Smooth)—and suddenly shaving became an experience.
This jelly-like oil provides a close, nourishing shave with the most delicious lingering scent. Hydrating, gentle, and sensorial—exactly how I want my body care to feel.
Next up: Vanilla Cashmere.
I’m now over six months into this daily supplement, which supports internal triggers of inflammation, stress, and hormonal shifts using proprietary blends of antioxidants, adaptogens, and micronutrients.
I love knowing I’m supporting my skin from the inside out—helping protect against UV damage, promote elasticity, regulate stress response, and encourage a calm, radiant complexion.
Restock: ✔️
If you’re not using a hypochlorous acid spray on your skin—and your teenager’s skin—what are we even doing?
I took a break from this a few months ago, and my skin let me know immediately. During a recent sensitivity flare, I reintroduced it into both my AM and PM routines, and the difference was undeniable.
My skin calmed, balance returned, and everything else in my routine began working better again. Quietly effective, barrier-supportive, and absolutely essential.
Auto-renewal: ✔️
January… respectfully, you overstayed your welcome.
You stretched long, asked a lot, and somehow emptied half my shelves in the process. I’m grateful for the routines that carried me through — and very ready for February’s shorter calendar, gentler pace, and a fresh round of products to love, test, and finish.
What skincare did you finish in January? Do tell!
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