Palmer's: 2 Steps to Beautiful Skin AND Giveaway

I am approached, often, from different companies asking me to try this product or that in exchange for review. The majority of the time I actually say no.  Yes, I do turn down a lot of free products.  I turn them down because my skin can be quite tempermental and does not deal well with change.

However, whenever Palmer's approaches me, I ALWAYS say yes because their products actually work....well, for that matter.

I was sent the Skin Therapy Cleansing Oil and the Skin Therapy Facial Oil, both of which have a delightful rosehip scent.  Honestly, there is something so luxurious about smelling like a rose.  Sigh, I love this scent.

I immediately gave the Cleansing Oil to my hubby, as he is NOT brand specific and was needing a new cleanser.  He has been using this for about a week, solid, and says that his skin texture has drastically improved (he is prone to dryness and this is working wonders) and his beard (yes, he uses this on his beard too) is much softer and less frizzy.  He said a downside for him is that the skin has to be dry before applying and since he does this in the shower he seems to use more product BUT aside from that, he is LOVING it.

The Facial Oil is my favorite item.  I will say that I typically use a Laneige Brightening Serum but do tend to alternate one at night and one in the morning.  The oil is fantastic because it smells super and applies very well plus you dont have to use very much to cover your face, making a bottle last a long time.  Best part of this though?  The serum works well to fade scarring and redness, leaving behind a revitilized you.  Truly, if you are on the hunt for an inexpensive serum, this one must be tried.

Now, for the fun stuff - GIVEAWAY TIME!

Palmer's is giving away 3 facial gift packs that include both a full-sized Cleansing Oil and Facil Oil.  If you are wanting to try this amazing brand, now is your time to jump on this giveaway.

Rules:  You must be a Canadian Resident and must follow my Facebook page.  If you aren't a follower yet, please click HERE and then hit "like".  After you have done that, find this blog post on the page and comment with your CURRENT FAVORITE CLEANSER.  The first 3 people to do this will win a fantastic gift pack!

Good luck and happy Monday!

   

Toner: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

No matter what your skin type or your skin care concerns, the right toner is one of the best things you can apply to your face.

I know, I know, I can hear the arguments pouring through the computer (ha) but I still stand behind my first sentence.  I say this with such conviction because I've been using the same toner for over 10 years with fantastic results AND have seen the results without using a toner.

Still my favorite toner, after all these years 

For those that aren't aware, toner is designed to refresh your skin while buffing the loose skin away, creating a super clean palette to either apply your makeup or your serums/moisturizers.  Depending on how potent of a toner you require will determine the ingredients in.  Most toners are mainly water and a glycerine type product and then, if using a stronger toner, an astringent will be added as well.  Astringents (alcohol) are added to decrease the oil production on the skin and are great for oily skin individuals.  Of course, there are other ingredients aside from these three - essential oils, specialty anti-aging products - but these 3 items are the base of any toner.

When picking the right toner, you should know these following things before shopping:
1) What type of skin do I have?
2) If I have sensitive skin, do fragrances irritate it?
3) Pricepoint
4) What benefit am I hoping for?

One of the best toners for Sensitive Skin

Most people know their skin type and, if they don't, usually can tell if they are oily, combination or prone to breakouts.  If you are prone to breakouts, your choice in toner would be different then the person who has never had a blemish before.  The issue with toners is when you have two problem areas - like sensitive skin AND are prone to breakouts.  This means you can't use a toner with a high astringent level because your sensitive skin will go crazy but you still want to kill the blemish-causing bacteria.  Apply all toners to the back of your hand FIRST before your face.  Give the toner a chance to blend in your skin and then see how it feels afterwards.  Remember, no matter what toner you buy, if your skin has a reaction return the item and try something else.

How To Apply a Toner 

I'm about to get blasted by people for saying this but I dislike gimmicky products.  By this I mean a toner that you spray on your face.  Yes, it's convenient but the idea of a toner is to scruff off the dead skin sooooo how would this work exactly?  It doesn't, at all.  About 95 % of toners should be applied with a cotton pad.  As you know, a cotton pad has two sides - one is non-grooved and should be used if you have sensitive skin OR a blemish/breakout area.  The grooved side is perfect to use on your T-zone, your nose and areas where your skin is NOT broken out or sensitive.  One of the best parts of my day is looking at that little cotton pad to see all the debris my toner removed...ha.

One of the best toners for Oily Skin

I ONLY use toner for my skin in the morning.  I use it to remove my night cream and debris from sleeping.  That's it.  If I used it anymore for my skin I'd worry about it drying out.  Remember the key to skin care is finding the routine that best works for you!

What's your favorite toner?  When do you usually apply it?

    

How To: Picking the Best Skin Care Products for Your Skin

Fresh, clean skin after my nighttime skin care routine!

Skin care products have always been important to me but in the past 6 months I've become quite the skin care snob.  I don't know if it's because I'm more concerned about anti-aging products or I'm tired of trying new things, but I have found the perfect skin care routine for me and it only took about 10 years.

The whole routine - All my skin care products used both day and night 

Before you spend your time and money searching for the perfect products, you need to ask yourself 3 questions:
1) Am I willing to commit to a routine both day and night?
2) How important is anti-aging or treatment to me?
3) What is my budget?

These are such important questions.  For me, I knew I was committed to using products both day and night, without fail.  I also knew that anti-aging was important to me, as was treating my skin.  I was also committed to spending the money AS LONG as the products worked.

Committing to a Routine 

Skin care products, especially treatment products, will not work without consistency.  If a product that you love says to use both day and night, and it's only being used at night, it won't work, period.  On that note, each person's skin is completely different.  I use my cleanser at night, only, and then use my toner only in the morning, to remove the nighttime debris.  The toner says to use twice a day but my skin would be too dry if I did that.  However, my facial oil is used twice a day.  

You know your skin and you will be able to determine what is going to work best.

My skin care treatment goodies

 Picking an Anti-Aging or Treatment Product

My favorite product, of all time, is a serum.  Seriously, I love nothing more than to put a gorgeous smelling serum over my cleansed skin.  Nothing beats that feeling of clean skin.  

Picking a treatment product can take time especially because everyone's treatment needs are different.  For myself, I always want something that's going to keep my skin glowing, erase early signs of aging and brighten my skin tone.  I use two different products for this along with my facial oil moisturizers.

When starting out with serums, visit your favorite beauty store and request samples.  This will give you an idea of what they smell like AND how they feel on your skin.  The other great thing about big department stores or beauty stores like Sephora, they will take back your tried products if you are unhappy.  Of course, if you've used the whole product they won't but if you've tried it and it doesn't work for you, return it and try something new.

My treatment serum is Nude Progenius Omega Treatment Rescue Oil and my anti-aging serum is Herbivore Botanicals Orchid Youth Preserving Facial Oil.  My moisturizer is Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light.

My favorite toner!  I've been using this for 10 years 

What Is Your Budget

It's true that some great products can really break the bank.  My rescue oil has a price point of $85 per 1 fluid ounce.  I justify this because it lasts me about 3 months and to me, it's an investment.  It keeps me skin glowing and line free.

However, not everyone wants to spend that and I can completely understand.  I have also used some fabulous over the counter serums (aka Oil of Olay, L'Oreal) for less than $15 each.  Remember to find the price point that best suits your needs AND provides you with the outcome you are looking for.

Skin care is such an important step in creating the perfect canvas for makeup.  If you don't have a skin care routine, start one!  Your skin will thank you!!

What are your favorite skin care products??

Up close and personal - No makeup and still glowing!

    

Amazing Skin Products You Can Find at Urban Outfitters

I adore finding new products that I've never heard of before.  Call it a gift but I can shop anywhere and seemingly find something beauty-related that is absolutely awesome.

I will say that Urban Outfitters sells some really great products, by cool companies, for relatively good prices.  I have found some fantastic moisturizers, salt sprays, masks and glosses that are in constant rotation on my vanity table.  Here are some of my favorite skin care items you can find at UO...

Fig and Yarrow Spring Facial Herbal Steam - This stuff is amazing!  Just add some hot water to this blend, hover over it with a towel covering your head and enjoy a deep pore cleansing.

TonyMoly Fruit Hand Cream - Not only are the cases adorable but the scents are glorious.  I can't use these at work (as we have a no-scent policy) but at home, these are my favorite.

The Gnarley Whale Beach Waves Hair Spray  - This picture is showing Mango scent BUT the Thai Coconut scent is my favorite.  This spray moisturizes your locks while giving you beachy, boho waves that every one wants for summer.

The Face Shop Smile Peeling Foot Mask - With summer just around the corner, you'll want to treat your feet to a foot mask.  This one is the bomb because it's inexpensive and your feet will be so smooth after using it.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil - This used to be my go to cleanser.  Truly, it did. I love facial oils and loved how clean my skin was after using it.  Best thing about it is you don't need to use water to remove it!  So no drying your skin out.

SkinFood Rice Mask - This mask is super moisturizing and will make your skin glow after just one use.  It's a bit thick but your skin will love you for using it!

What are your favorite products from Urban Outfitters??

    

Murad's Anti-Aging Acne Regimen Saves the Day

Murad is a skin care line that I'd heard fantastic things about and yet had never tried before.  So when I was sent some Murad products to test a few weeks ago, imagine my surprise and excitement.

Murad was founded by Howard Murad MD, a certified dermatologist, a number of years ago.  He "is widely acknowledged as one of the world's foremost authorities on skin health and his pioneering efforts include creation of the first line of doctor branded skincare." (Check out www.murad.com for additional details.)  Not only does he continue to create miracle products but still actively treats patients too.

When I received my products in the mail, I was thrilled to see the Murad Anti-Aging Acne Regimen in the box.  The great thing about this little set is that it comes with all four anti-aging products: Time Release Acne Cleanser, Acne & Wrinkle Reducer, Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20 and the Acne Spot Treatment.  Needless to say, I couldn't wait to get home and try them out.  After a bit more research, I learned that:

• Time Release Acne Cleanser (Step 1) - Super gentle, low foaming cleanser that improves skin's appearance by delivering a sustained release acne treatment and optimizing hydration to restore suppleness.
• Acne & Wrinkle Reducer (Step 2) - A soft light cream that reveals a clean, more youthful complexion by clearing congested pores and neutralizing acne-causing bacteria and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20 (Step 3) - A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that improves skin's appearance by fighting premature aging through advanced UV protection and minimizing blemishes.
• Acne Spot Treatment (Step 2, after the reducer but before moisturizer) - A light gel that promotes immediate healing of blemishes by delivering targeted acne medication and providing on the spot relief.

I have been using this line for just over two and a half weeks now and am blown away but how clear my skin looks.  PLUS, I haven't even had to use the spot treatment once.  My skin is glowing, my redness has faded and even my pimple scarring seems to be disappearing.  I am also so happy to find an acne treatment that actually promotes anti-aging.  I really think that by combining the two, (acne treatment PLUS anti-aging) Murad is ten steps ahead of the competition.

I will, without a doubt, be buying these products myself and knowing that they'll carry me through prime wrinkle years is a huge bonus.  If you have problem skin, I highly recommend this line.

Have you tried this line before?  What are your thoughts?

XO 

DIY Beauty Fridays: The Miracle of Aloe Vera

Man, does my skin ever have a fantastic relationship with aloe vera.  Because I'm so paste-y pale, all I ever do in the sun is burn.  Now don't get me wrong, I always always always wear a sunscreen to prevent this but sometimes, after swimming or being on a boat all day, you forget to reapply.  (At least I always do).  This means Allan has to bolt to a drugstore and lather me, from head to toe, in green aloe vera goo.

I don't know about you but once your skin is thoroughly covered in the gel it feels much cooler, of course, but also extremely moisturized.  Which brings me to today's topic, the skin care uses of Aloe Vera.

1. Aloe vera is an excellent eye gel and wrinkle smoother.  Apply in the morning, under your eyes, and watch your skin firm up.

2. For my girls with oily skin, alternate aloe vera gel with your moisturizer.  You'll notice that over time your skin will be less oily.  (A major perk of aloe vera)

3. For my girls with dry skin, mix aloe vera gel with your moisturizer and you'll notice a big difference in your skin's texture.

4. Use after moisturizer as a natural primer.  Honestly, I've been doing this for the past few days and it works wonders.  My skin is exceptionally smooth and noticeably softer when I have this product on.

5. Have any pimple redness or swelling?  Rub some aloe vera gel on clean skin and you'll notice that the swelling and redness will almost disappear.

Why this works?  Aloe vera has been used for medicinal purposes for many years because of it's healing abilities.  Aloe vera contains vitamin C and E, plus zinc, all of which contribute to healing.  Aloe vera is also an adaptogen which makes it very effective for all skin types.  Quick tip: Ensure you're using pure aloe vera gel or at least as close to 100% pure as possible.  (I'm using one that's 99.7% pure.)  The last thing we need is an aloe gel on our skin that's jam packed with preservatives and additives.

I've been using my aloe for the past four nights, before bed, and when I wake up my skin is so supple and soft, it's amazing.  The best part is that my HUGE bottle of aloe only cost me $6.99.  (I got mine at Rite-Aid).  I love cheap skin care!!

Have any of you ladies tried this before?  What do you think of this tip?

PS - Happy weekend to everyone and a big happy LONG weekend to all the gals from Canada....woohoo.  Allan is taking me away for the whole weekend so I'll be back posting for Tuesday....xo

Boscia Acne Skincare - A Guest Blog by Carmen

When a friend is in need of skincare advice, who else to turn to but Christina right? Well that’s what I figured, so when blemishes of gargantuan proportion started surfacing on all parts of my face over a period of about a week, I decided immediate action needed to take place and got on the pipe with the ‘Lady with the Answers’ immediately. It just so happened that she had recently picked up a test set of the basic products from the Boscia Line with a points credit she had at Sephora. (I’m sure she gets a freebee each week with the amount of product she buys haha...) Of course nothing comes free right?.....well actually she is very generous, so of course they do with her, but in this case, the payment requested for using this tester was that I blog about it of course!

I am aware that my recent skin issues are due to hormonal imbalances and changes, and that $1000 products would not necessarily fix this immediately. But I was eager to see what benefits, if any, this new skin care line would offer me. The first day I used the products I noticed the light, non-sticky, pleasant smelling texture to this product line, and instantly loved its look and feel. I received five products, and have recently purchased one more, so here are my thoughts:

Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil - My first reaction was surprise since it’s an oil [of course I had not read the title of the product, otherwise I wouldn’t have been surprised!]. Wash with oil? When I already have an oily complexion? Weird.... but I’ll try anything. The first few days I noticed that it did a bang up job of getting all my makeup off, even my eye makeup and was quite impressed that little to no residue was left behind when I did a spot check with toner and a cotton swab. Imagine my surprise when Christina asked me if I was supposed to put it on dry or not...of course I didn’t let on my ignorance to her as I had just assumed one would wet their face first as with normal products. So I went back and re-read the fine print, and sure enough, it says to put on a dry face! Wow, an incredible difference. An already great face wash just became amazing. It almost naturally heats with the friction of your fingers, and removes EVERYTHING on your face. It also leaves ones skin feeling moist and supple. Love this product!

Enlivening Amino AG Eye Treatment - A few months ago Christina put me onto an under eye stick. She told me I was looking haggard and needed some help. (This is a joke; she would never be so rude!!) So I have been faithfully using the Garnier under eye stick since and it works fabulously! However, I decided to trust that the Boscia one would be equally as good and shelved Garnier for the time being. Instead of a liquid, this is a fairly thick, but non greasy cream, that you lightly rub into the sags, bags and dark pouches under and around one’s eyes. I can’t say enough about how immediate the difference was! Even though I had been using a similar product the Bosica product has vastly reduced my bags and darkness leaving my eye zone area looking much more alive.

Oil Free Daily Hydration - I have never in my life been picky about moisturizers or even particularly aware of if they work or not. This one is on the lighter side, has good coverage with a small amount, and doesn’t leave my face greasy feeling at all. I have noticed a small amount of flaking of skin in certain areas of my face, but it could just be the nature of the fact that it’s still winter here, and the wind and colder temperatures tend to dry out certain zones anyways. All in all, this is a nice product – and one that I will continue using.

Skin Perfecting Primer - OH MY! I was in love with this the first time I used it! Thick but not greasy – amazing coverage – and I hardly have to blot the slickness off my face anymore. (This is apparently one of the benefits of using a primer). The mineral makeup I use glides over this primer with amazing ease and my makeup now never cakes or creases. I will swear by this until I die.....well, or until Christina puts me onto the next best thing. But honestly, I actually look forward to putting this on every morning. One thing to be aware of however is that if this product gets too close to your eyes it will sting and make them water. So ensure you close your eyes for a few seconds if that happens and it goes away.

Green Tea Blotting Linens - I have used blotting sheets for years, and had some I love and some I don’t love so much. These are by far my favourite for a few reasons. They are large....one sheet can do my whole face and even have some of the sheet left over. The dispensing system is like a Kleenex box where when you pull one out, another comes out behind it. This is so much better than trying to get your finger or nail behind one paper thin sheet to pull out. The paper is very organic feeling; you can tell it is made from natural materials which makes me feel great about the environment as well. It whisks the shine off my face like no other blotting paper has, and leaves no smell or residue behind.

Clear Complexion Treatment with Botanical Blast - After a few days, I realized that no matter how much I loved the products, my acne was not disappearing as fast as I wanted it to, and I needed to get a spot treatment. I went to Sephora and bought the matching one to the line (kinda pricy....I know I’m in for a hefty bill when my test kit runs out, but it will be worth it). I love the pump dispenser, and its active ingredient is Willow Bark so the scent is light and pleasant. This is an all over, or as needed treatment that can be put under makeup for day, or before bed (or both) to combat the growth of those nasty red things. To begin with, I used it morning and night, and liked how fast it dried on my skin, and how it didn’t leave a crust at all like some topical spot zit zappers do. Now that my skin is clearing, (yes, finally it is!!) I am only using it as needed at night to preserve the product for future breakouts. Since my skin scars incredibly easily, I now have some lingering redness to deal with – perhaps I need to get a green cover stick based on Christina’s love of them as read in a recent post of hers.

All in all, my Boscia testing experience has been a great one, and I have found a new product line that I plan to continue with for the foreseeable future. Christina, I hope this blog suffices as payment, and that we are now even... Any time you want me to be your guinea pig for future products, as one face can only test so much, I'm here!!!