Skincare

What’s On My Skincare Shelf Heading into 2020

in

Written by Pepper B

A New Year is shortly approaching. Wait a NEW DECADE!!! here’s what’s making it to the new year with me as far as skincare is concerned. I do alternate skincare once in a while and this routine is making me extremely happy at the moment. My skin doesn’t look dull considering its winter the texture is great under makeup and I love how easy it is to complete my day and night routine.

See More Below! My plant LOE is making a cameo in the photo below ( yes i’m a proud plant mom )

See Products:

Daily Detox @pholkbeauty I love this cleanser because its gentle but my face feels completely clean

See Product:

T.L.C glycolic serum @drunkelephant this has been added into my routine recently. I know I needed to add something back in that keeps texture smooth and evens my skin tone and this has been a gem for me. 

This transitioned into my morning routine it’s cold and to avoid dullness. I use this in the morning after washing my face.
see product

See Product:

 This I use to remove my makeup before cleansing literally gets everything off. I also use it as a substitution for cleanser in the morning. @biodermausa:

See Product:

Let’s be honest you can’t fail with Thayers Witchhazel it is a staple in my routine and works great for both men a women ( men meaning my fiancé who has no portion control lol )

See Product:

 @bitebeauty agave lip treatment  Im a true lip balm and mask junky and I love this one specifically at night time.

See Product:

@drunkelephant protini moisturizer I absolutely love the texture. its super smooth works amazing in prepping skin for makeup!

See Products:

Just transition back to the vino active I believe the price point for premiere cru eye cream was a little pricey and geared more towards a mature skin type.

Zero Waste Skincare Brand That Is Perfect For Your Tree Hugging Bestie

in

@bufferingbetty

Captain Planet would be so proud.

A growing trend amongst Millennials consumers is shopping with more social consciousness. Rather than just buying from a brand that sells a product, they want to feel like they’re supporting a brand who stands for a cause. Loli Beauty is here for anyone looking to shop from a company that is looking to change the culture of the beauty industry by protecting our ever changing environment. Global warming is real, my loves. Loli Beauty is making their mark by producing products that are zero waste by designing packaging that is reuseable and compostable.

Meet Loli Beauty

 
 

Social conscious shopping isn’t a trend that is exclusive to the beauty industry. It seems that it is no longer enough for a brand to ‘round up to the next dollar’ to donte to a charity. It is becoming an expectation for a brand to voice, for example, stances on political issues.

 
 

Relatively recently, Nike made a bold statement when it chose to feature NFL player, Colin Kaepernick in a campaign. I haven’t ever watched a pro football game in my life; not even the one time I attended a Superbowl party. But, even I know that Kaepernick, now a household name, caused waves each time he knelt during the singing of the National Anthem to protest the police brutality of black people. By Nike featuring Kaepernick, they told its consumers that they support the athlete’s message.

 
 

Was Nike’s campaign for coin or was it in earnest, that’s an answer that will never truly be known. By Loli Beauty designing a zero waste company, they are acknowledging the validity of Global Warming: a topic that politicians themselves still dispute despite the overwhelming scientific evidence.

 
 

Of course, beauty isn’t new to voicing an opinion. There dozens of brands who express passion for ethical practices such as being cruelty free or fair trade. Beauty bloggers and consumers have rejected lines that neglect to have more inclusive shade ranges or do not feature people of color as regularly as white models. The world i changing and getting smaller. If these brands want to stay relevant and make money, they’ve got to adapt. Protecting the future of our environment is one of those causes. It’s why freshman Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has gaining popularity.

The Beauty industry thrives on consumerism. So we should do it more responsibly. According to Gary Gardner, director of research for Worldwatch, said, "[m]ost of the environmental issues we see today can be linked to consumption, As just one small example, there was a story in the newspaper just the other day saying that 37 percent of species could become extinct due to climate change, which is very directly related to consumption" (source).

Consumers spend $18 billion globally every year (source). We can do more to help the environment and Loli Beauty can help you make that important first step.

Beauty is a luxury at all price points. It isn’t an absolute necessity for me to paint my eyebrows into something other than what nature gave me, but it is part of the human condition to be just a little bit obsessed with our looks. Cosmetics go as far back as Ancient Egypt; we’ve all attempted that signature Cleopatra eyeliner. So it is unlikely that these levels of consumerism will decrease. In turn, consumers need to do more to encourage brands to reduce waste.

 
 

We can be concerned with Mercury’s retrograde’s affect on us while recognizing how our treatment of the planet where we live is affected by our behaviors. And change them.

 
 

LOLI stands for Living Organic Loving Ingredients.

Loli doesn’t just want you to have products that nourish your skin but they care about what you do with the jars once the product is finished! In a article about packaging, WWD writer, Jennifer Weil, said, “green is the fastest-growing theme for beauty packaging these days.”

“From our food-grade, glass yogurt jars that can be reused for food storage , to our certified compostable labels, bags and boxes, we are thoughtful in our choices and mindful of both the planet and people” (LOLI)

 
 

As I though Loli Beauty didn’t think through how many jars a person store without concerning people, they did shut me down! They announced via instagram it;s new refill program! Keep your original jar and order a refill of your product in a compostable pouch. Plus you’ll get 30% off. Everyone wins!

 
 

One of the features I love on their site is how Loli proudly displays the ingredients of each product.

 
 

And breaks down all the details you need to know about their products.

 
 

Let’s look at some products!!!

 
 

Pank Micellar Water

 
 

Need to know: $38, And there is a WAITLIST! What! Must be a good product right?

Avaiable at lolibeauty.com
Shop here →

Aloe Blueberry Jelly

source

Hmmm, sounds like a snack but it will actually make you the snack *sizzle sound* This moisturizer is for oily, breakout prone skin!

Need to know: $28
Avaiable at lolibeauty.com
Shop here →

 
 

Purple Corn Grains

A cleansing powder that transforms into a purifying, polishing scrub when activated with water, hydrosols or vinegars.” (source)

Need to know: $32
Available at lolibeauty.com
Shop here → 

 
 

Royal Manuka Honey

“…natural enzymes, amino acids and minerals to repair damaged tissue, dissolve dead skin cells and tighten skin. Its naturally occurring hydrogen peroxide clarifies and prevents breakouts, too. Science couldn’t have done it better.“(source)

Need to know: $18 + honey is a personal favorite of mine in terms of skincare!
Available at lolibeauty.com
Shop here →

It’s Not the Green New Deal, but I’m sure Rep. Ocasio-Cortez would support this zero waste beauty brand.

We can act now before our Earth strikes back.

This New Skin Care Ritual Will Leave You Glowing!

in

@bufferingbetty

Glow Up.

We’re all trying to keep on smiling through the rest of Winter but our skin is tight from the cold temps + heating system. We are drying out! This new line from Aveeno promises to lock in moisture and then some! Aveeno has expanded their Positively Radiant Skincare line to take your skin to a whole new glow level. Maxglow! This line includes 5 products says it will give you that dewy-model look, while actually hydrating your skin. There is even a product that is designed to enhance your makeup!

Meet Max Glow

via @aveenous on IG

MAXGLOW Infusion Drops

 

via aveeno.com

 

Most excited to try this product. I have some moisturizers that make my skin feel great but are completely lacking in the glow factor.

The Big Claim: “ Infused with soy and kiwi complex, each moisturizing drop helps even skin tone and texture without clogging your pores. Use alone or with your favorite moisturizer for a lit-from-within glow” (source)

Need to know: $23.99, mini version available at Ulta
Avaiable at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, + Walgreens
Shop here →

MAXGLOW Serum + Primer

 
 

The Big Claim: “Create a glowing, smooth canvas for makeup and brighten your skin with this multi-tasking face primer and serum.” (source)

Need to know: Shake before use! $23.99, mini version available at Ulta
Avaiable at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, + Walgreens
Shop here →

 

via giphy.com

 

MaxGlow No Mess Sleep Mask

 

via Ulta.com

 

The Big Claim: “This nighttime face mask actively works while you sleep and replenishes lost moisture, helps recover skin from damage and helps even your skin tone and texture … attracts and locks in moisture to intensely hydrate overnight, for a more radiant, dewy complexion. The hydrating sleep mask comes with a no-mess paddle applicator that allows you to keep your hands clean while applying.”

Need to know: $23.99
Available at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, + Walgreens
Shop here →

MaxGlow Micellar Gel Cleanser

 

via Ulta.com

 

The Big Claim: “cleanser works like a magnet to draw out and wash away makeup, oil, and other skin-dulling impurities. With moisture-rich soy and kiwi complex, its unique formula is designed to attract and lock in moisture, leaving skin feeling hydrated, soft, and dewy.” (source)

Need to know: $10.29
Available at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, + Walgreens
Shop here →

MaxGlow Peel Off Mask

 
 

The Big Claim: “smoothing and brightening face mask acts as a soap-free, no-rinse exfoliator that helps lift away dull, tired skin.” (source)

Need to know: $13.29, mini version available at Ulta
Available at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, + Walgreens
Shop here →

via @aveenous on IG

The Big Claim:

Need to Know:
Available at
Shop here →

Ready to Glow?

via giphy.com

Toners For Dry Skin: you might need more than one!

in

@bufferingbetty

We're just a little high maintenance in this dehydrated corner.

It's funny how just a year ago I wasn't even sure of what a toner does. More accurately, I was skeptical of toners even serving any skincare benefits and not just a scam to get beauty junkies to buy more of the industry's promises of perfection in a jar. Fast forward to Summer 2018 and your favorite squishy beauty blogger has got a few toners sitting in her cabinet. 

About my skin: 
I have normal skin that leans dry If i'm not careful. The seasons play a starring role in how my skin behaves. In the winter, my skin needs a wild amount of attention. The heat in the summer makes my skin a little oily but the extra SPF I apply to my skin can dry out certain areas like my forehead and cheeks. In the fall, my skin just -ugh, perfection!!! And in the spring, we cool. 

Having a few toners is more than me just being high maintenance. No, really! My skincare has always been responsive. I look at my skin and focus on how it feels. It tells me what it needs. 

At our last Meet Pepper B present's Beauty Hour event, we had skincare expert, Niambi, teach us about natural skincare. She is the creator of Pholk Beauty formally known as Bloomsbury Square. Niambi said, "my skincare is a conversation." It was one of the night's major takeaways.  Instead of doing the just same old routine, pay attention to what your skin is asking from you. 

Soothing and Hydrating Toner:

The Esteli Coco Rosa Hydrate Toner Mist has brought some balance to my life. Toners I had been using were too potent to use daily. I like to use this toner on days when I have exfoliated my skin because it feels gentle and hydrating. I spray it on a cotton round apply it to my face to ensure that I'm getting all of the goodness all over my skin. I don't like the smell. It's slightly rosy but has a spicy note to it. I've said in the past how I don't have a great sense of smell. If you blindfolded me and put a plate of strawberries in my face, I probably guess that the scent is coconut. It's just not in my skill set. That said, there is something that is zesty and just off about the scent. But I like how my skin feels when I use this toner, so I look past it. I also use this to remove excess oils from my skin before I use an epillator for my uninvited, unnecessary, ladystache. This product also claims to be makeup setting spray or a skin refresher but I don't agree. Lastly, a tip I picked up at #BeautyHour with Niambi was using a toner before a mask to prep the skin. This toner has come handy for that too!!

And not that it really matters, but I just love the color of the bottle. Deep, jewel tone-ish shades of green bring me so much zen. 

Retexturizing Toner:

United State Balancing Tonic by Origins has been a part of my life for almost a year and I'm ready to put a ring on it. There were spectacular changes to my skin with this product. On the corners of my jaw, below my ears, I have been getting rough textured skin. It was a build up of dead skin. I didn't want to use a physical exfoliator too often because that tends to break out my skin. This balancing tonic was able to remove the dead skin without damaging my skin. I just have to use it sparingly on my nose because it's more sensitive. I cannot use this toner after sun exposure or using a physical exfoliator because my skin just doesn't like it. This is more of a winter product while the Esteli toner I can use year round. 

Honorable Mention - The Gram or YT Made Me Buy

Social media doesn't always influence my purchases. I stalk the "new" or "just in" sections of Sephora, Ulta, and Beautylish so much that I am already a quarter of the way through a product when I see my fave vloggers hauling it. Which always prompts me to think "Yuh been sleeping, gurl!" It doesn't happen often, but when it does the product is usually -eh. Hype is just hype. I grabbed the mini version of the Mario Badescu  Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater while standing in the checkout line at Ulta. It's a trap because it was only $5 so I didn't give it too much thought. Plus, I had been wanting to get a toner with rosewater. It gives excellent hydration that doesn't last. I've been using it this summer as a quick hydrater after being in the sun or to freshen up my face after the gym so I don't have to over use my moisturizer. She's not cheap. If you want a product like that, this can fill that need but don't expect sparks to fly when you use it. 

What toners are you using?

Basic Skincare Guide: Men Summer 2018

in ,

@bufferingbetty

Clean up + Glow up

A friend asked for skin care advice focusing on the basics with extra attention paid to protection from sun exposure + and clearing blackheads.

The actual message I sent him on facebook with an apology because I don't think he knew what he was getting himself into when he asked for 'basic' skin care advice.

You: male, normal skin, late 20s, morning shower person, more likely to shop at the drugstore or stores like Target + Walmart
Job: outside most of the day
Concerns: clearing blackheads, sun protection
Skin care Knowledge:slim to none

Will not spend more than 2 minutes on skin care

Since his skin gets a lot of sun exposure, skin care is important for making sure he is comfortable with how his skin looks and feels. 

Key Skin Care Steps:

Exfoliate
Cleanse
Hydrate
Protect
Lip balm 

Brands to check out:

These brands are gentle and great for sensitive skin. Usually no harsh perfumes
-Aveeno (the positively radiant line is my favorite)
-Simple

Exfoliate:

It gets off all the dead skin and helps clear out blocked pores that have whiteheads and blackheads. Try to do it for 5-10 seconds on each part of your face: each cheek, forehead, nose + chin. Exfoliators with a sand like grit work best. Larger particles just sort of scratch your skin and will cause irritation after sun exposure. This should be done twice a week but never more than 3x a in a week. Over exfoliating your skin will cause breakouts.

Aveeno® Positively Radiant® Skin Brightening Daily Scrub
**don’t use it daily. Ignore the rules. 2x a wk! Or every 3-4 days. 

Cleanse:  

If there is one thing you do know, it's how to wash your face. If you feel like you have oily skin, use a gel cleanser. Dry skin, use a cream cleanser. If you're skin feels sort of tight + itchy after you’ve washed it, you have dry skin. Because you spend a lot of time in the sun, look for something gentle. Usually cleansing once a day is fine unless you are super sweaty or fell in the dirt. 

Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash

Hydrate:

Even if you have a hydrating cleanser, still apply even a light moisturizer. It is your new BFF. We are not teenagers anymore. When you're rounding 30, it's time to start the 'preservation process.' If you've met people who are about your age but you could've sworn they had at least a decade on you, it's because they did not hydrate. Sure, there are hereditary factors to how we age, but we all have hereditary factors. Some of us just manage them a little better. 

Aveeno® Smart Essentials™ Daily Nourishing Moisturizer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

* Tip with sunblock: SPF, while incredibly necessary, it can be drying for your skin over time. If you are using a sunblock and notice your skin is looking flaky, mix your sunblock with your moisturizer, about half and half, so you get the best of both worlds. 

Protect:

Do. Not. Neglect. This. Step. You will age like milk in the sun. Even if you don’t see a burn, you are burning your skin. Don’t forget your ears, neck, and hands. . 

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sensitive Lotion - SPF 50
I use baby stuff all the time, doesn't matter that you're grown


Lip Balm:

Again, we ain't 22 no more. Your lips will age just as fast as the skin under our eyes. Use anything without petroleum. While it feels good and does work, it also stops your skin’s natural moisture production. Only use it to heal the skin, not for daily use. 

Kiss My Face Sport Lip Balm SPF 30

Avoid:

2-in-1 products: I say this because tons of products marketed toward males have this ‘nifty’ little feature that is good for no one. If you wanted to get a cleanse + exfoliate type of product to just use daily, you would just be doing more harm than good for your skin. Since you get sun everyday + facial hair grooming (however often you do it), treat your skin as if it were sensitive even if you don't see any redness or inflammation. Separate products are better so you can balance how often you are doing each step. 

Pore strips + peeling masks: products like the Biore strips or peeling masks that remove blackheads are good in a situation if you are going to an event and want to style on the crowd with a fresh face. But overuse (daily or even weekly) will just make the pores on your face larger over time. Which will just make blackheads and whiteheads more visible. 

Foaming anything: products that foam have a lot of alcohol so it just dries out the skin overtime. I don't even understand why they're made. 

It's OK to

Ignore some directions: I’m thinking about exfoliators again because people tend to over do it. Even if a product says it is ok for daily use, it is not. It’s too much! Very harsh on your skin especially after the sun. 


You feeling fancy + want to add a night time routine? 

Cleanse - if you cleanse at night, you don't have to cleanse in the morning unless you’re like feeling kinda sweaty. 

Hydrate - same as day time

Eye cream- Again, we ain't 22 no more. You can also mix this with your SPF and wear it during the day. 

Burt's Bees® Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin

Extra Extra fancy + want to take a product with you during the day in case you feel sweaty + gross?

Cleansing wipes: 
Any micellar water cleansing wipes are great because you don't have to wash it off. Feels great to remove any sweat and dirt. Most of them are makeup removing wipes. But many people just use them after a work out. 

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Makeup Remover Wipes

Hydrate
Put some of your moisturizer in a little travel tube or jar. 

Final Touches

Hydrate + Soothe

Exactly what your skin needs after sun exposure. You can use hydrating sheet masks multiple times a week. It gives your skin instant results. They aren't lasting results but they do help and don't cause damage over prolonged use.

Tony Moly I'm Real Aloe Sheet Mask
Put this in the refridgorator for 15 minutes before use for the ultimate experice. 

Over night treatment

You got pimples that killing your vibe? These can help and are available at Ulta. If you overuse either of them, your skin will get dry and flaky. 

Mario Badescu Plastic Bottle Drying Lotion
Dont shake it. Take a q-tip and dip it in the sediment and put in on the pimple over night. Dries out the gross stuff so it heals faster

End of Day Treatment:

Not every day. An end of day treatment can be something that preps the skin for the week ahead.

Origins Travel Size Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask 
If you feel a pimple beneath the skin, this mask works to bring it out. It doesn't cause breakouts but it will bring the excess bacteria to the surface and form a pimple. It is good to use a few days before a special event to help make a pimple heal more quickly. It can be used over a specific pimple or all over the face. Use it about once a week on your nose and chin, or where ever you get blackheads and whiteheads, to clear your skin. Put a warm wet  towel over your skin for a few minutes to open up the pores then apply the mask. Once it is dry, use a warm wet towel again to remove it. 

Now GO + get shmexy

source

Tell me all about your skin care routine
 

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This Website Could Help Protect Your Skin From Another Breakout

in

You'll never have to wonder if a product is going to make your skin have a freak out again!

Shop Smart Saturday is back and ready to save your skin from a breakout. If you've got acne prone skin, this post is for you! 

Shop Smart Saturday is all about being an informed consumer. You read reviews. You track trends. And you don't buy any product without researching down a rabbit hole that makes you want to have a paleo-diet for a few weeks! It's the worst when you experience buyer's remorse on account of you not having known what you now know, ya know?

Skincare is trial and error. But there is a way to significantly reduce the 'error' part. Sure, you can go to a dermatologist and have a skin analysis to learn what ingredients put at risk of a breakout so you'll, therefore -avoid them. But we found the millennial approach -a website that does all the guesswork for you!

CosDNA is a website that analyzes a product's ingredient list. It individually ranks the harshness of an ingredient on a scale from 1-9; 9 being the worst on your skin for long-term use. 

"About Comedogenic (Acne), Irritation and Safety
The value of Comedogenic and Irritation from zero to five, the lower the better (the less chance it will happen).
Safety index from 1~9, the lower number means this ingredient is low hazard. Unlike comedogenic and irritation, Safety is a comprehensive index focus on safety on long term usage, according to harmful report from CIR, RTECS, FDA and other related information. The purpose of the index is more inclined to assess whether long-term injury of skin, cells or the human body." - CosDNA

The website is basic and looks outdated but it isn't. It's also super easy to use. There are two ways to search for problematic skincare that I find the most effective. 

The first is by using the 'Product Search' tab. I searched the Peter Thomas RothTherapeutic Sulfur Masque Acne Treatment Masque. It was in their database. Seldom do I find that the product I am looking for is not with in CosDNA's database. 

The ingredients in the product are individually listed and ranked for safety. It's that easy! Now that you know the risk, you are in control of whether or not you can manage a skin breakout this week!

The second approach is by using the 'Analyze Cosmetics' tab. This is helpful if you tried the 'Product Search' tab and weren't successful in your quest. 

This method takes a little more effort on your part. That said, it's still very easy. It's as simple as finding the ingredients list on a product page. Just copy & paste then click 'analysis.'

I copied the ingredients for the Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask from it's Sephora webpage. 

CosDNA gave a rank of the ingredients. It even found the name of the of the product I was looking up! It's a tool everyone can use!

Your skin will thank you!

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How can I get rid of dark circles? Here's An Eye Cream Worth 4 Stars

in

Written By Deanna P

 

Biossance Squalane peptide eye gel

15ML 0.50721 FL OZ Retails for $54.00

Reduces puffiness and dark circles

 

As I become more knowledgeable about health & wellness I am more in tune to what I put in or on my body.  The products on the market today are filled with ingredients that are unsafe and harmful to your skin.  I had heard of Biossance, but did not now much about the brand. As a company they believe in clean beauty and they ban 2000 harmful ingredients.  Recently the company went to Capitol Hill to lobby for higher legislative standards for ingredients that that are allowed in beauty products.   The US has a surprisingly low standard and only ban a measly 11 ingredients. Biossance commits to no harmful ingredients, sustainable packaging, and proven results.  The brand originated in a lab in 2003 by Berkeley scientists.  They make all their products using biotechnology.  Their products are safe for your skin for the environment &  do not not harm animals.  

 

"The cream has no synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates or

mineral oil.  It can be used on all skin types including sensitive skin"

 

 

The key ingredients and what the do include:

100% PLANT-DERIVED SQUALANE: Instantly hydrates and locks in essential moisture

EYESERYL & ARGIRELINE: Reduces the look of dark circles and puffiness

SWISS APPLE STEM CELL EXTRACT: Brightens the under eye area

 

Use of this product was very simple.  Gently dab on the lower and upper eye mornings & evenings.  It can also be dabbed above the brow.  I used it for a week and saw a visible improvement.  My under eye circles looked lighter and my eyes appeared brighter.   I think the product is worth the price.  I love what the brand stands for and it’s ingredients are all natural & the packaging is sustainable.   Your health is priceless & since this product promotes healthy skin and works, I am a fan. It can be purchased at Sephora.com

 

 

 

 

This Hydrating Mist Will Revive Your Skin and Your Life

in

By: Amanda V.

This spray is infused with Coconut Water, Hibiscus Flower, Rose Petals, and which hazel to hydrate, soothe, balance, reduce discoloration and firm your skin naturally. 

Face Mists have become the new thing for me. I enjoy a good refreshing spritz session in the  sweltering heat and humidity of New York City's Summer days. I must say that that I am VERY VERY picky because some face sprays can smell a bit foul (Sorry Glossier I love you so much but your soothing face mist smells like breath) and I am not here for it. I am also pretty picky with what I put on my face in general and the all natural ingredients infused in this ROSE HIBISCUS COCONUT WATER HYDRATING FACE MIST by cult beauty brand HERBIVORE reassured me that this was safe enough to give a try.

I love to use this delicately refreshing mostly as a facial toner and also as a mist to wake up and recharge my face needed. 

As a toner, this has been the most super gentle on my skin. It is ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. I spritz a cotton round and wipe all around my face and it doesn't dry out my skin. it feels super soft and firm but not uncomfortably tight and dried out, like most basic toners will leave you feeling.I love to use this before and after I apply my serum and moisturizer as well so my skin can chug all of that moisturizing goodness. After using this for a couple of weeks, consistently toning my face with it as part of my routine, I did notice the texture in my skin is MUCH smoother. This product can replace Thayer's Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner (as cool as it is, it can be a bit drying for me).

As a refreshing mist, my skin loves to drink this stuff up. On a no makeup day I will drench my face in this spray and add a serum and them my moisturizer and then spray again on top of that (I'm totally insane, I know... but have you met my parched skin? It's like the Sahara Desert) and if I'm wearing makeup and mid way through the day I feel like I need a pick me up, I just spritz this and it not only revives my entire face and life, it also leaves a natural dewy glow. I would prefer a much finer mist because it is a bit much, more of a splash and thats not what anyone wants on top of their makeup, but I just make sure not to spray too close to my face. 

I'm not sure how this would work alone for keeping your makeup completely set from budging, especially a full coverage foundation and contour. If going heavier with makeup I wouldn't go for this, I'd just stick to an actual makeup setting spray, like one from Urban Decay or NYX rather than this. 

I totally recommend this spray to anyone who needs a hydration boost, especially if you have sensitive, dry/combo skin because this stuff is incredibly soothing and gentle and leaves absolutely no irritation whatsoever. I prefer this 110% over my smelly Glossier soothing face mist, and the fact that I said I choose this over something from my holy grail brand says a lot. This mist has the most subtle rose scent, and is not overpoweringly botanical whatsoever. 

You can purchase this spray at Sephora, where the full size, 4oz bottle is $32 as well as HerbivoreBotanicals.com and Urban Outfitters where they sell the Full Size and a 2oz mini spray for half the price at $16 which will be better for a trial run before you give in to the full size. 

 

 

Note: I did read on multiple sites that the scent and color varies and for some people the scent was a bit too potent for them. For me, my bottle smelled similar to the Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish and I didn't experience and foul fragrance to my spray whatsoever. 

Have you washed your skin recently? Can your face really smell, feel, & look like fresh linen?

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Written By Deanna P

Every time I turn around there is a new brand introduced to the market.    The latest one I discovered is Skin Laundry. 

 

The brand was founded by Yen Reis.  It’s the age old story of how the founder suffered from skin issues that got more and more severe as she aged.  In Asia, she found laser light therapy helped her skin tremendously.  It was an easy treatment that was quick and effective and had no downtime.    When she moved to Los Angeles, there was nothing like it there.  She met with laser experts and in 2013 Skin Laundry was created & she opened the first store.  Now there are locations in California, NY, Arizona, London & Hong Kong.  More will be opening soon.  Along with the stores there is a whole line of products that work to compliment the laser light therapy & work well on their own.   I loved the way the brand was packaged so I was thrilled to try it. I tried the gentle foaming face wash.  It came inSIZE 6.7 oz/ 200 mL for $20.00, but I tried a 1.7 oz/50mL sample size. Besides a classy logo, the bottle states these three words; clean, calm, and soften.  This is how the product is said to leave your skin after use, like fresh linen.  The product can be used on all skin types including sensitive.   There are no Parabens, Sulfates, & PhthalatesIt can be used in the mornings & evenings.  Apply a small amount to damp skin.  Massage in to skin for 30-60 seconds & rinse with warm water.  

 

The ingredients & what they do are listed below:

-Panthenol: Acts as a humectant to attract moisture and bind water to keep skin moisturized.

-Shea Butter: Provides a soft, conditioned feel to skin.

-Cucumber Extract: Provides ultra-calming and soothing effect on skin as well as moisture-regulation to revitalize and hydrate skin.

-Chamomile Extract: Possesses gentle soothing properties that alleviate itching and irritation.

 

I really liked this product.  I had been looking for a new face wash & I think I found it.  My skin feels softer, & so clean after I washed it.  The ingredients are healthy & natural and all do something to make my skin look & feel healthy.  At $20.00, I feel the price is fair for what is currently on the market.  I would definitely recommend this brand & product.  I am even considering trying the laser light therapy.  

You can purchase this product at Sephora & the manufacturer’s website:

https://www.skinlaundry.com/product/gentle-foaming-wash/

Frank Body Glow Mask

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By: Amanda V. 

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for good skincare that has minimal, natural ingredients, which is why one of my top skincare brands is FRANK BODY. I'm already obsessed with their body Cream and Coconut body balm along with their original coffee scrubs to slough away dry flaky skin (even though it's messy AF, I don't care, they make messy seem so glam). A couple of months ago the brand released their GLOW MASK and of course me being me, ordered it the second it came out. I LOVE this stuff! It instantly brightens your entire face, making you want to be makeup free. IT'S MAGIC! 

This incredibly moisturizing formula goes on thick and creamy and is ideal for those of us who suffer from mega dry skin. (Team Forever Parched). This heavily moisturizing formula consists of a cocoa and shea butter base along with other natural oils and extracts making the treatment super moisturizing and containsa breathable water resistant barrier to lock up that moisture and your skin hydrated. It's has been so good to my super sensitive skin as well (so sensitive babes, this one is for us). Oh, and another thing... it smells absolutely delicious, like a vanilla milkshake. 

Not only does this thick, creaminess of this mask feels so good on the skin, it IS good for the skin and is free of parabens and PEGs (which diminishes your skin's natural moisture and elevates the appearance of aging aa well as leaving it susceptible to bacteria... yuck).

After cleansing in the morning, I massage a thick layer into my face and neck and I leave this in for 10 min (most likely while brushing my teeth because I multitask like a MF). After rinsing off the mask you are left feeing deeply cleansed with fresh, glowing, radiantly plumped skin (thanks to the caffeine in key ingredients like Arabica Coffee seed extract that tones and firms the skin and glowing antioxidants like Goji berry extracts) that is as smooth as a baby's bottom. 

This 2.70 oz tube is fairly priced at $21.95 with free, quick shipping at FrankBody.com and can also be found on the shelves at select Urban Outfitters stores. Go grab a tube... gorgeously ethereal, lit skin is waiting for you!!  (Vegan friends... this one is for you as well!)

Ren Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye lift

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Written by Deanna P 

I am endlessly looking for the fountain of youth.  As you age, unfortunately your skin does not stay as taut & firm as it did in your younger days.  My eyes have been one of the first things to go.  My lids are getting droopy & I do look tired more often than not.  

 

I recently got the opportunity to try Ren Clean Skincare Keep Young And Beautiful Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye Lift.  It comes in 15 mland retails for $45.00.  It can be used on all skin types every day.  RENlaunched in 2000 & hasbecome a cult favorite amongst consumers & beauty editors ( i will jump on thatbandwagon).  You can find itin department stores, pharmacies and spas in over 50 countries around the world. Ren is the Swedish word for Clean.  The concept of the company is making products with no nasty ingredients.   The three main things they focus on are Performance, Purity & Pleasure.    Performance is important to the company.  Their products go through rigorous testing & they demand proven results.  Purity in that Ren uses 100% plant & mineralbased ingredients.  They do not use anything synthetic.  They believe that when the consumer uses their product, the texture, fragrance & overall experience will make a person happy!  

Clean innovation is their overall focus!  

 

Rarely do I find a product that I put on & I feel like it immediately works.   This might have changed when I tried Ren’s Instant Shot Eye lift.  Instant was definitely TRUE.  The truth be told, I felt my eyes instantly lifted & looked better as soon as I applied it.  I have been using it for a few days & I am definitely adding it to my arsenal of products.  My eyesdefinitely looked younger & my fine lines were diminishing,  Rarely do you find something that works this well that has natural ingredients.  I appreciate natural more & more these days as some of the ingredients in some products cause more damage than they fix. I do feel the product from what I have seen so far is worth the $45.00.  There are not a lot of products that you get instant gratification & Rests Eye lift is one of them.  I rather buy one good product instead of 20 bad ones.  

 

 

 

To purchase this productat Sephora or direct from REN:

http://www.sephora.com or renskincare.com

 

Kiehl's Super Fluid Review

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Written By Deanna .P

I have known about Kiehl’s as long as I can remember.  I have seen the stores, passed the section in department stores throughout my life.    I never realized the history of Kiehl’s. Kiehl’s has been around since 1851.   It’s first store was on 3rd Ave & East 13th Street in Manhattan.  It was one small pharmacy that has grown into a national brand with more than 250 stores all over the world.   It’s parent company is Loreal.  Loreal purchased Kiehl’s in 2000.  Kiehl’s is a cosmetics brand that specializes in premium skin, hair, and body care products for men & woman.  The brand success is in part because of their simple packaging & their large male clientele.  Recently, I tried two of their products & was pretty impressed with both. Super Fluid UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ 1.7 fl. oz-50 ml MSRP $38.00

I have had skin cancer & precancerous cells on my skin so I am a fanatic when it comes to sunscreens.  I had a trip recently to Puerto Rico & bought the Kiehl’s Sunscreen with me. I liked the fact that the formula was light, non greasy & went on easy.   The product is Oil-Free, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free & Color Free. It’s also water resistant for 80 minutes & one of it’s ingredients is Vitamin E to help prevent free radical damage. The truth is in the trial & it worked wonderfully.  My face did not get burnt as it usually does no matter how much sunscreen I slather on.  I was very happy that it kept the sun away & I am going to see if they have a product similar for my whole body.  The $38.00 price was definitely worth it as this sunscreen has the best protection I have ever used.   It also comes in a 4.2 fl oz bottle for $61.00

 

The second product I tried was Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate.  This comes in 3 sizes:

1.7 fl oz for MSRP $60.00

2.5 fl oz for MSRP $79.00

3.4 fl oz for MSRP $!02.00

This is a powerful anti-wrinkle treatment with 10.5% Pure Vitamin C.  As most of you might realize as you age your skin unfortunately shows more imperfections, especially wrinkles & lines.  I for one hate it & will try practically anything noninvasive to prevent it.  This product is a customer favorite & It claims to reduce wrinkles & lines while improving the overall look of the texture, tone & radiance of the skin.  It also works to exfoliate the skin while giving it antioxidant protection.  I used this product for the last couple of weeks & do notice some improvements.  I like the texture of this serum & I feel as though it is working the minute it touches my skin.  This is a product that I will continue to use & most likely see more great results. I definitely feel it is worth the investment as a lottreatments that reduce lines & wrinklescost hundreds of dollars.  For a non invasive solution this is a great value. My experience with Kiehl’s thus far has been excellent.  I know why they have been in business for 166 years.  

For more information on Kiehl’s & to see more of their products, check out:

kiehls.com

GlamGlow Duo Cleanser & Mask Product Review

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Written by Deanna .P 

 

I wrote about a GlamGlow product that I really liked a few months ago so I was excited to receive a couple more products to review from the brand. In case you did not read my previous review here is a refresher on the origins of the brand.  The GlamGlow line was originally created by a couple in California in 2011to be used exclusively for backstage & professional useby Hollywood movie stars.

Glenn & Shannon Dellimore formulated it in their home & gave it out to some of their actor friends to try.  The products worked so well that they received a call from a top luxury brand that wanted to retail the products.  And the rest is, as they say, history!    They now have a full line of products that are sold for all of us to buy.  

 

GlamGlow Powermud Dualcleanse treatment

1/7 oz / 50gMSRP: $69.00

 

This treatment is a mud to oil treatment.   It goes on as a mud & when you cleanse it off with water it turns to oil.  This results in soft velvety skin. The directions to use are as follows.  Apply a thin even layer to skin & leave on for5 to 10 minutes allowing it to dry.  To remove, apply water & move your hands in circular motion so the mud turns to a cleansing oil.  Use one or two times per week.  The Powermud is a good product & made my skin feel smooth &  soft after treatment, but it took the full 10 minutes to dry.  I did like the fact that it turned to oil as most mud masks are so hard to get off & they feel abrasive on your skin.  This turned to oil & really worked on making my dry skin look better.

 

GlamGlow PowerCleanse Daily Dual Cleanser

 5oz/ 150g MSRP $39.00

 

This is a face cleanser with two separate pumps.  One for mud & one for oil & when combined together they form a dual cleansing foam that gets rid of makeup & dirt build up on your skin making the skin feel fresh clean & purified.  To use pump 3 to 4 pumps of each mud & oil on to hands, add water & vigorously rub together to make a foam.  Massage onto face & then rinse. The more water you add, the foamier it will become.  Make sure to avoid eye area.

 

The Dual Cleanser was great to use in the shower & is now my daily cleanser.   A couple of quick pumps & I have a facial cleanser that made my skin feel clean & terrific.  This will definitely become part of my beauty routine. Both of these products are without parabens, sulfates, & Phthalates.  Also, they can be used by both men & women.I liked both of these products, but I definitely liked the Dual Cleanser better.  I think the pricing is rather high for these products, but the product line was made for Hollywood stars so the price point makes sense.  I definitely believe these products & this line are worth trying if you have not.

 

 

You can buy the products at http://www.glamglow.com or at sephora.com

Glam Glow Supermud Clearing Treatment Review

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Written by Ada. H 

The smaller letters underneath the product name state, "Supermud Clearing Treatment". They really weren't kidding. Super poreless skin. I love everything about it.  It comes out a dark gray cream and when you rub it onto your face you're taken aback like wtf? Because in this mask is a little ingredient that looks like black flakes of I don't know what! It's awesome!  Is this what supermud looks like? I googled some of the ingredients. It could be teaoxi, volcanic pumice rock sediments, or french sea clay particles. I don't know, but these all sound like good things to me.  This mask was once available only to the Hollywood stars, but as all good things you can't keep it from the masses! We shall get our grimy hands on this and be poreless! Yeah! 

 

It smooths on your face like a creamy dream and starts to dry almost instantly! The clay mask will turn a true dark gray color once dried, but you'll be able to see darker black spots popping up all over the mask as it dries. What are those? That's the mask seeping into your pore holes to pull the crap out of your face! It's marvelous darling, oh so marvelous!  I've tried a bunch of face masks before and this is my favorite! This beats Origins' Charcoal Mask right out of the water!

Gimme gimme gimme. This comes with a hefty price tag though at $69 a pop. 

But that's the cost of cleaning out your pores, you dirty girl. Well paid and well played, Hollywood. That's the price of looking like a star, and a star you shall look.

Dr Dennis Gross Firming Peptide Milk Review

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Written by Deanna .P

I don’t know if you read my review of Dr. Dennis Gross’s product a month or so ago.  At that time I had no idea who Dr Dennis Gross was & I had never tried any of his products.  Fast forward to now & I now know & respect him & I was excited to try his firming peptide milk which is a nourishing & lifting hydration for the face, neck, & chest.  

Dr Gross is a well known & respected New York City dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology.  He became a dermatologist to the stars & decided to create a line of products that his patients could use in the comfort of their own homes. He has a host of great products for your skin & this time I tried his firming peptide milk.  It comes in 1.0 fl oz & retails for $65.00. it contains no parabens, sulfates or phthalates. The product is easy to use.  Twist the cap to reduce the appropriate dose.    Unscrew the cap & push top to release it on your fingers.  Massage cream into your face, neck & chest.  Use in the am & pm.  Can use a moisturizer after you apply it& use sunscreen in am after it is applied.  The milk nourishes skin while making your complexion look firmer.  Formulated with tetrapeptide-21, collagen amino acids, and ceramides, the ingredients in this lightweight formula, work to make your skin have a tighter & more lifted appearance.

I have used this product for about a week & so far I really like it.  It is such a light weight formula & it feels great on my face.  I have noticed a definite difference in the way my skin looks.  It is less dry & looks a lot firmer.  It also feels so much softer than it did a week ago.  I will continue to use it.I do think this product is a bit pricey, but it does help firm, lift & moisturize skin so you do not have to buy multiple products.    This makes it more worth the investment.

Some of the places it can be purchasedare at Sephora, Nordstrom’s, & directly from Dr. Dennis’s website below:

 

Boscia Black Hydration Gel Review

Written by Ada . H 

When it comes to cleanliness, there's a stigma that black = dirty. We want white linens, a bright white kitchen with white counter tops. We want white teeth, brightening skin potions. Well, you clean freaks, BLACK is the new clean.  When Lady Gaga came out with her signature eau de parfum "Fame", the liquid inside was black. I remember when I first lent that bottle to girls in the locker room, a lot of them gasped and immediately had a look of disgust on their face. I stood there unhinged, "do it," I challenged them. They ended up loving the smell. 

Don't be afraid of the new black toiletries, my friends!

Boscia's new black line for skin care is no different. It's black because of the charcoal ingredient that's been concocted into the line. It's the star ingredient. Charcoal these days have so many different properties for cleaning and skincare. It's the new IT-ingredient. (Remember when it was tea tree oil?) 

I tried Boscia's Black Hydration Gel and let me tell you I have jumped ship from a Belieber to a believer in this product. First of all, it smells like lychee. It has an exotic, faint, clean fruit smell. It's not heavy, it's just there. It's refreshing. All it requires is a thin layer spread evenly on your face day and night. I apply it underneath my makeup. 

Who shines like a greasy diamond by the end of the work day? 

Me. 

However, when I apply this hydration gel on for the day, I look great by the end of it! I'm usually running to the bathroom blotting my face with rough paper towels, or secretly tearing off those damn tissue paper toilet coverings in the stall and doing what Tyra Banks taught me to dab my face. With this, I don't have to worry about all that nonsense. It's awesome!  The gel comes out looking weird to first-timers. It literally looks like someone took clear gel and mixed charcoal into it. It's not a solid black gel, it's more like a semi translucent light black gel. Don't be scared! It melts and soaks into your skin clear. My skin looks smoother and more refined. The verdict: I am definitely incorporating this into my daily regimen for years to come - until I die a black death.

EOS Review

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I'm sure I am not the only one who has felt the shift in temperature. Now that it is officially fall it is time to reprioritize our skincare routine and make-up bag. All though EOS is an item that I use year round. During the winter time this is a my favorite because of texture. What impresses me most about this lip balm is that there is no need for consist reapplication. Make-up lovers! Liquid lipsticks are trending now, They are extremely drying especially during fall and winter season this a perfect combo underneath your liquid lips or matte lipsticks. EOS lip balms are Gluten, Paraben and Petroleum free. The Shea Butter and vitamin is what gives you that silky smooth texture. The are super small and compact and have a good shelf life. Also feel free to share it with your significant other. They don't have high shine so men can wear them too! Great one extra item to fight with my boyfriend lol. 

The best part of having a hydrating lotion with mild scent is that it doesn't interfere with your every day fragrance. Feel hydrated from head to toe using this on every part of your body especially on hands and feet during this upcoming season. Berry Blossom is probably my favorite because it can be worn alone. I feel extremely hydrated throughout the day and is extremely safe for me to wear at night to go to bed. I have extremely sensitive skin and it dermatologist tested. This may seem like something simple but I'm one who loves all my extra minutes of sleep so I need exact timing for clothes and make-up. The quick absorbing and no stick or greasy formula is ideal for a lady on the go like me. The price point is amazing for the quality. Thank me later! 

 

 See more EOS lip balm flavors on their Facebook page