Educate me please?

[GrumpyOldBiddy2]

OK, so I have read a couple of these threads about skin products and am totally befuddled by them.

I don't understand half the words you are saying. But. I am in my early 40s, never had the slightest interest in style and beauty but starting to think it might be worth making an effort. So. What would you advise? Key issues...
Fairly normal skin, no spots etc to speak of.
Olive skin but dark circles under eyes (currently wear concealer but nothing else on skin - don't like the feel of make up)
I think I might have big pores, but I feel a bit silly saying that as maybe they're not.
I think I look younger than I am, often mistaken for early 30s (and on a good day, late 20s)
Want my skin to be 'brighter'

My friend gave me some bright red lipstick the other day, turns out that I love it and it looks fab with a little bit of mascara and flicky eyeliner.
My hair is dyed bright red.

Like the idea of these peels, serums, fancy moisturisers etc but no idea where to start. Don't want to spend a fortune so no more than £10-15 per big product.
I used to love aromatherapy stuff.

So, what to you think? Any suggestions for products / routines or am I a lost cause????

[GrumpyOldBiddy2]

Anyone?

[Greengardenpixie]

Well, i am 47. I have combination skin though. Normal on the cheeks, a bit oilier on the forehead, chin. I kind of dip in and out of skincare. In the morning i just use a facial wash then apply boots no 7 protect and perfect serum with a moisturiser over the top with a high spf. In the evening i cleanse my skin with a cream cleanser and face cloth, then i put some kind of serum [ anti-ageing] on. I have liquid gold with glycolic acid that i use. I dont use a moisturiser at night as it makes me break out. Not sure if thats any help to you!!!

[almondcakes]

Acid tone: www.bravuralondon.com/tone/problem-acne/purifying-calendulatoner.html

[almondcakes]

Cleanse: www.bravuralondon.com/cleanse/problem-acne/volcanic-mud-cleanser-100ml.html

[midnightvelvetPart2]

I'm 39 and stick to a basic cleanse tone moisturise twice a day. I have serum, facial oil and a face mask that I intended to use weekly but it doesn't happen

Liz Earle hot cloth cleanser in the evening
Micellar water in the morning
Clinique toner
Clinique moisturiser in the morning
Olay one in the evening.

I know the Clinique are more than what you want to pay but if you get a trial set of the 3 step system it's about £20

[GrumpyOldBiddy2]

Oh thank you! My sister tells me off for not using night cream so I'm glad it's not compulsory

I really like the look of the stuff on those links,

[GrumpyOldBiddy2]

What's Micellar water? It sounds magical this is why I don't ask people in shops, because I'd buy whatever they told me to if it sounded impressive