May 23, 2013 at 4:39 PM (Beauty, Night Cream)
Tags: Clear Skin, dark spots, night cream, Patricia Wexler, Vitamin C, wrinkles
First off, I’d like to apologize for my absence! I have been so very busy at work, I haven’t had much free time for blogging. I have a boatload of products I’ve been loving lately that will eventually make it to BATB, but can only take one at a time, so lets’ get back into it!
A velvety, thick, non greasy formula, Intensive Night Reversal and Repair Cream is a great boost to aid in night time skin replenishment. The 3.4oz. jar lasted me FOREVER. I do however, prefer a pump due to the unavoidable effects of oxidation on creams. When exposed and not in an airtight container, certain ingredients can loose their efficacy. Also I am very aware of using clean fingers to dip into creams, but not everyone is so as diligent. Anyway! I was very happy with the results I achieved and saw a significant difference in my skin clarity on the mornings I woke up after using this treatment.
Night creams are an excellent way to incorporate active ingredients and free radical fighting antioxidants into your routine. While we sleep, our skin self repairs. When given a boost with these actives, certain conditions (wrinkles, discoloration, etc.) can be addressed specifically and results seen as quickly as the next morning. I personally felt my complexion was brighter and more even.
Patricia Wexler M.D. Dermatology Intensive Night Reversal and Repair Cream is sold through Bath & Body Works and is currently on sale for $45.00 (retail $70) on their website here
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April 4, 2013 at 3:20 PM (Beauty, Toner)
Tags: aveda, Cruelty Free, food grade, Intelligent Nutrients, makeup setter, mist, Organic, refresher, skin care, Toner, Vegan
Moko is strict about carrying only natural beauty lines and the owner is dedicated to checking and double checking ingredient lists. When we received our shipment of Intelligent Nutrients, I knew it was worth trying. Their mist comes in a travel friendly .67 ounce spray bottle, perfect for your bag. The scent is earthy, comprised of a unique collection of seed oils including black cumin, pumpkin and red raspberry, all certified organic. Luckily, this mist also comes in a 1.7 ounce size for home use, or in my case, overuse.
Used as a toner (after cleanser) this mist will restore pH levels washing strips away and readies skin for optimal serum absorption. This product can also be used throughout the day to refresh. The extensive list of all natural ingredients are easily absorbed into the skin and will not disturb makeup. Not bias to skin types and/or conditions, anyone with any issue (or the lucky ones without) can use this with no irritation or reaction. The light scent doesn’t linger and isn’t offensive or synthetic. For all you Aveda lovers, this line was created by the same man, Horst Rechelbacher and is even more natural and skin loving. In fact, Intelligent Nutrients boasts its ingredients are food grade, meaning the products are edible! After telling this to some friends, I can report that although they can be eaten, it does not mean they are tasty.
I really like the interesting scent and was happy with the fact that the spray pump actually worked! It’s always a bummer when you need to discard a product because of faulty packaging. The spray came out evenly until the bottle was nearly empty. I feel like I tended to overdo it a bit since I love the scent so much. I’m sure 4 to 5 sprays would be sufficient as opposed to my 7 to 9. I am a firm believer that toners are a necessary step in a healthy skin regimen. Many people tend to think of “astringent” when they hear “toner”, this is not the case. Astringents are filled with drying ingredients, such as witch hazel, alcohol and salicylic acid and are best for acne prone and oily skin. Toners are more gentle and can even provide hydrating benefits, which is true for the anti-aging mist.
Gluten and cruelty free, USDA certified organic and vegan, anti-aging mist is $18 and sold here.
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March 29, 2013 at 4:33 PM (Beauty, Cleanser)
Tags: Acne, Cleanser, Clear Skin, cystic acne, Non Drying, Somme Institute
It took me a very long time to use up every bit of my Nourishing Cleanser by Somme Institute. Although a cream cleanser, being in a pump bottle made it easier for me not to go overboard and use excessive amounts at once. The non sticky, milky consistency spread nicely although it does not foam at all. Somme Institute is known for their patented Molecular Dispersion Technology (MDT5) that is present in all their products. This delivery system aids in the penetration of vitamins and proteins into the skin. These ingredients improve skin clarity, tone, and overall health. Also, since it is a cleanser, it dislodges dirt and oils in pores, without drying.
I’d recommend this cleanser to someone with sensitive and acne prone skin. I was introduced to it myself when I was battling cystic acne. Most products for broken out skin contain ingredients that kill bacteria, in turn stripping natural oils from the skin leaving it dry, flaky and irritated. Using a cleanser with moisturizing ingredients can maintain proper pH levels without having to use an additional moisturizer. This isn’t always necessary, but in some cases, over compensating with heavy creams or even a lighter lotion can exacerbate affected areas and cause more issues.
I will admit, I personally feel a foaming wash tends to leave a more believable feeling of cleansed skin, even though I know this isn’t true! There is just something about lathering up that feels right. I gave my Nourishing Cleanser a shot though, and was pleasantly surprised with my results. Like I stated earlier, using an abundance of harsh products for acne can make it worse. Replacing just one of these products with something more gentle can do wonders for a complexion that is being ravaged of it’s moisture mantle.
Somme Institute’s Nourishing Cleanser is $40 and can be purchased here.
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March 8, 2013 at 3:55 PM (Beauty, Eye Treatments)
Tags: Ageless Derma, crows feet, Dark Circles, eye cream, Retinol, Vitamin K
Although I am considered “young” to some, I have been using eye cream for over ten years. Being on a routine facial regimen since I was a teenager has left me rewarded with the occasional “You look so young!” or even getting carded at 21+ events (rarely, but it happens!) I believe a lot of this has to do with the care I give to my eye area. The skin under our eyes is thin, and gets thinner with age, so it should be cared for differently than the thicker layers of our face. Since this skin is so delicate, it also shows flaws much faster (i.e. wrinkles, crows’ feet, puffiness)
When I learned about Ageless Derma, I was impressed with their research and clinical studies. The Retinol and Vitamin K Eye Cream is full of active ingredients that target and correct aging symptoms, but also naturally help to strengthen and protect skin from future damage. Retinol is considered one of the top anti-aging ingredients in skin care due to its potency and results in treating a wide variety of skin care concerns. Used in this safe, small and controlled dosage, retinol encourages rapid cell turnover (exfoliation) without irritating the skin. This lessens the appearance of line around the eyes, and reveals a brighter, more even toned layer. Vitamin K aids in blood coagulation and clotting throughout the body. Dark areas under the eye can be caused by blood vessel leaks that result in pooling. An extra shot of Vitamin K directly on the affected spots helps to stop additional seepage and combats the bruised looking effect. With regular, diligent application twice a day, users will notice a positive change in the texture and tone.
Proper technique in eye cream application is also extremely important. Pulling and tugging can break the fragile collagen bonds and leave you looking even older. Using only a pea size amount (usually between a half pump and pump) dab and pat the formula from the outer to the inner corner of the orbital bone. The stimulation from the patting increases circulation and absorption. Being a results oriented, high end product with active ingredients, a little goes a long way.
The eye area is one of the most expressive parts of the face, so it is inevitably going to age faster. Taking just a few minutes a day using a potent, high quality cream like Ageless Derma’s can keep you bright eyed at any age.
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February 15, 2013 at 6:06 PM (Beauty, Foundation, Primer)
Tags: Blotchy, Brush, Conceal, Dry Skin, Foundation, Frugal, Healthy, makeup, moisturizer, Neutrogena, Pores, Prestige, Primer, Skin, Smoothing, SPF, Too Faced
Working in many high end salons and spas, I sometimes get into conversations with clients about the products they use. More frequently than I’d like when I ask “What is your current regimen?”, my clients look down to their feet and in a shy and meek tone reply “Olay” or “Cetaphil” or whatever brand is readily available in local pharmacies. Being the practical and understanding Esthetician I am, I realize not every one A.) Has the budget for some products recommended to them and B.) Doesn’t believe/care if these products are better for their skin. As much as I’d love for each of my clients to follow a strict (yet simple) regimen, I know it’s just not gonna happen. This being said, I am a firm believer in “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” You’ve been using Olay moisturizer and it’s been just enough to keep your complexion evenly hydrated? Great! Cetaphil cleanses your skin gently and keeps sensitivities at bay? Awesome! Over the years, I’ve worked for many lines which use marketing techniques in their classes/seminars/workshops that, of course, make sense. Obviously I need to use (Brand xy here) and only (Brand xy) and the regimen will not be complete if I don’t include (Brand xy) serum and eye cream or SPF…Yes, great marketing, a bit of brainwashing, but not at all true. Being the beauty junkie I am, I try a little bit of everything. Below is an example of how I’ve found my happy medium between fancy and frugal.
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup ($12.49) was really all I could ask for in a makeup for the price. A medium coverage liquid with a broad spectrum SPF 20 that feels light on the skin. This paired up with Too Faced Primed & Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer ($30) can make a big difference in how long your makeup stays on and the consistency you’re left with at the end of the day. More common than not, you will feel the need to slather on lower grade cosmetics, since the pigments aren’t as rich or formula isn’t as lasting, etc. In this case, using the makeup with a high end primer helps you use less and see better staying power. Primer is applied first, with the foundation brush, and fills in pores so your color won’t settle into them. This gives the skin a satin-y finish and barrier to keep makeup above the skin, discouraging coverage loss and blotchy spots. In conclusion, your makeup will last longer throughout the day AND throughout the weeks – A perfect example of how all brands, no matter what price point, packaging, ingredients or retail outlet, can work together in harmony.
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January 18, 2013 at 3:38 PM (Beauty, Cleanser, Exfoliant)
Tags: Cleansing, Dry Skin, Foaming, L'Oreal, Scrublet, Sensitive, Winter
Winter makes me sad.
It’s not only because of the extended periods of darkness and the exclusion of cute wardrobe (sweaters are nice, but I miss my dresses!) but the gloomy, misbehaving state my skin falls into. Sensitivities are prominent in these grueling months of dry heat and arctic air here in Pennsylvania. The use of a gentle, milky cleanser has inched my skin away from the edge of complete chaos. L’Oreal’s Go 360° Clean Deep Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin includes a little buffer they call a “Scrublet” to wash with. This handy tool encourages skin sloughing to help shed away the dead stuff, and aids in a deeper clean to clogged pores without over drying or stripping. Delicate enough to use twice daily, this high foaming formula is a good addition to a sudsy shower during a snowstorm, and throughout the year if necessary.
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January 10, 2013 at 8:18 PM (Beauty, Toner)
Tags: Astara, Brightening, dull skin, natural, pH, skincare, tone, witch hazel
We all know we need to tone our bodies, but the face too? Absolutely! After cleansing, the natural pH is stripped from the skin. Toning restores this level which in turn preps the skin for the next steps (serums and/or moisturizer) Please understand that toner does always equal an alcohol ridden tonic that makes your face feel parched. Many toners are sans alcohol, and actually deliver many powerful ingredients into the skin. Astara’s AHA Nutrient Toning Essence happens to be one of those enriched concoctions. Abundant in witch hazel and lactic acid, this rose scented treat gently levels pH and lifts remnant dirt and oils cleansers may leave behind. Now that your skin is perfectly prepped, you can continue your regimen with the knowledge that your products are working to their fullest potential!
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December 19, 2012 at 7:43 PM (Beauty, Body Scrub)
Tags: Body Polish, body scrub, cellulite, circulation, Cruelty Free, Dry Skin, Fake Bake, flakiness, Paraben free, Review, Scrub, stretch marks
Dull, flaky; lifeless…
Three words you don’t want be described as. A good way to stay unassociated with the blah’s is to:
A. Make sure chatting topics aren’t always about your cats.
B. Resist the urge to nest in the comfy dent you have created in your couch on Saturday nights.
C. Polish yourself twice weekly with a gritty scrub.
Social life strategies aside, a good scrubbin’ a couple times a week will boost circulation, reduce the appearance of stretch marks and/or cellulite; and of course, leave you lustrous and vibrant. Maybe a good buff can help your relationships after all!
Fake Bake Passion Fruit Body Polish is just the grit you need. Formulated free of parabens and jagged salt crystals, this candy scented treatment will swiftly dislodge that drab and dreary layer of skin that has overstayed its welcome. Have no fear applying to dry skin; the spherical jojoba beads buff without scratching and scraping, leaving you tear and tear free! Beauty isn’t always pain. After you have buffed yourself to a flushed hue, hop in the shower and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Rinsing will reveal skin reminiscent of your younger years. Before sun damage, collagen loss, being called “ma’am”…The years we take for granted.
As the busy bee I am, I take such comfort in my beauty routines and believe the ritual can be very therapeutic. So light a candle, attempt to twist yourself into that yoga pose your friend brags she can do, then scrub down. Your body and mind will show its’ gratitude.
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December 8, 2012 at 10:36 AM (Beauty, Neck Cream)
Tags: anti-aging, neck cream, ReVive, sagging, SPF, sun exposure, wrinkles
The throat area is a sorely overlooked and under-treated area in the battle against aging. All the hard work we do keeping our faces dewy and smooth won’t matter if lurking below is an unsightly neck! Revive’s Fermitif is a luxurious, rich, rose-scented treatment that takes care of the less delicate but equally important area underneath the chin. Nourishing moisturizers such as Sunflower seed oil and Aloe juice keep skin soft and supple. Hydration is key since it makes skin appear plumper and less wrinkled. Creams should also be put on in upward strokes to combat gravitational pull. Fermitif is also formulated with EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) that stimulates cell regrowth. This ingredient is present in many different systems of the human body, and can be found in plasma and platelets. A must have ingredient to protect against extrinsic aging is of course, an SPF (sun protective factor). The SPF 15 found in this cream protects the neck (also the décolletage, or chest area if visible) by filtering 92% of UVB rays and quells skin from burning 15 times longer than without protection. Recommended twice daily, I used my Fermitif only in the mornings. I felt using it at night was a waste of SPF, and would prefer a product specifically for nighttime use. It is refreshing to see a line target this area. When you think about it, our throats and upper chest are exposed to the elements daily, and rarely protected.
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November 21, 2012 at 1:21 PM (Beauty, Primer)
Tags: All day, Complexion, makeup, NYX, Oily, Primer, Review
THE RUNDOWN
Having an oily complexion can make foundation look uneven and blotchy. Unfortunately for me and many others, this is an annoying reality. Primers create a thin veil on the skin which fills in lines and scarring caused by acne, and absorbs makeup ruining sebum. Primers are a great way the get the most out of your foundation and/or concealer. Formulas aren’t as readily absorbed by the skin, keeping your look fresh and reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
THE RESULT
I wasn’t sure this was the primer for me. The consistency varied from what I am used to. It was more of a lotion and not as thick as primers I’ve used in the past. To my surprise, it worked very well and kept my makeup in place for most of the day. Remember with primer, a little goes a long way and applying by patting into the skin is best. You can even use a foundation brush or sponge for a more even application.
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