9624192e3ccfba8b8b30b60fec72321e8a045f5b

Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts

How To Beat The Bed Rest Blues: Skincare

I know, I just couldn't stay away! Stoked that I got my new laptop adapter and now I can blog away! 

Everywhere I look, I see women in their hospital gowns, hair matted, skin pale and sallow, dark circles and puffy eyes. Granted, the majority of them just gave birth and looking hot really isn't their first priority. I'm bed ridden, but since I can still move around a bit I'm making an effort to look as "non-patient" as I can if you know what I mean. I refuse to wear a hospital gown unless I really need to and make time to fit in a skin and makeup routine. These to me are some of the things that will keep me sane and feel normal in a not-so-normal situation. 

Many of the beauty articles you're reading now are all about "How To Beat The Heat With These Products", but since my problem is being in a stuffy hospital with average air circulation, I need products that will make my skin look bright and radiant! Since the a/c is broken, we have fans blowing everywhere. To prevent my skin from looking lack-luster and dry, I've turned to a few must-have products starting with skincare!


1. Dr. Dennis Gross All In One Cleanser With Toner ($32 CAD. The Shopping Channel): Have I mentioned before that I love multi-taskers? I didn't want to pack a slew of beauty products so this cleanser was the perfect choice. It's a 3-in-1 cleanser that cleanses, tones and removes makeup even water-proof products. It contains natural Witch Hazel, Chamomile, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamins A,C, and E so it won't strip your skin. What I love most about it, is that it works for all skin types. If you have dry skin like me, you just need to massage into skin with dry hands for 10 seconds. Oilier types have to massage it in for 30 seconds. It applies really creamy, yet rinses off easily leaving my skin feeling smooth and clean.

2. Bobbi Brown Brightening Advanced Serum ($105 USD): I don't usually wear serums, but once I tried the newest star from Bobbi Brown I couldn't put it down. I seriously love the way it feels on my skin and how luminous my face looks after. It applies so silky smooth and feels super hydrating - some days I'll just apply this on my skin with no moisturizer. It's infused with Red Algae, Vitamin C Complex, and a unique blend of Grape, Mulberry, Scutellaria (soothing and anti-inflammatory properties) that even out the tone of your skin and make it look brighter. I've started noticing that since I've been using it, the tone of my skin seems brighter, texture smoother and my pores smaller. I apply this under my lotion to absorb and lock into the skin, but I think you're supposed to apply over your lotion according to the site. Either way it works lovely, but I'm still balking at the price. I believe in investing in good skin care, so if it's within my budget it's something I would definitely buy again. 

3. La Mer The Eye Concentrate ($165 USD): La Mer products are a luxury and definitely not apart of my everyday skincare regime. I was lucky enough to receive a deluxe size and thought why not spoil myself while I'm in the hospital! It's the perfect traveling size. It's a very rich cream so you only need a little at a time. With the dryness in the air right now, the skin around my eyes are loving it. I've only been using it for a little over 2 weeks so I'm not sure it's doing anything for my dark circles but they definitely look hydrated and radiant. 

4. La Mer Creme de la Mer ($135 - $1650 USD): My first experience with this luxurious cream, my skin was not in the best shape. I actually had a reaction from a medicine at the time when I started using this. You can read about it here. This time around, my skin is pretty normal despite being on the drier side but can I tell you - I don't like this cream - I LOVE this cream! Why must my skin have expensive taste?? It's just what the doctor ordered. My skin soaks it right up and after my skin looks glowing. Again, it's a deluxe size and I'm trying to savour it as much as I can but I know it will be all gone by the time I'm out of the hospital. I'm sure once that happens, my skin will need less moisture. If you can afford it, it's a fabulous cream. My skin just looks so much smoother and and more luminous.

5. La Mer The Body Creme Tube ($130 USD): Can't forget about the body! I received a deluxe size in the tube form which is so compact and portable. Again, it leaves your skin unbelievably soft and supple. I rarely have to reapply throughout the day because it's so hydrating. It doesn't leave a greasy finish like most richer creams. It has a light scent, but disappears right away. 

What's the lesson here? Use expensive skin creams while you're in the hospital and you will feel like a super star! It really is a treat especially when all I have to look forward to is laying on my bed all day. I believe if you don't take care of your outer appearance, it will start to affect the way you feel on the inside. Since I can't control when the baby will come, this is one area of my life I know I can control!

Have you tried any of these products? Do you turn to beauty products to get you out of a funk? Stay tuned for How To Beat The Bed Rest Blues: Makeup post!

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them.

, , , , |

My Spring Skin Prep Tips On The Style Glossy Canada!


It's starting to feel like Spring today! To get your skin in spring perfection check out my tips on The Style Glossy Canada! Click here to read the article.

, |

Beauty Review: Sensitive Skin? Eczema? Then You Need Diane Lai!

 

Has the cold winter weather left your skin feeling dry and itchy? Do you find every skincare product you try makes your sensitive skin irritated and blotchy? Or do you suffer from eczema? 

My son developed eczema at the age of one and ever since it's been a constant battle until now. I had tried avoiding topical steroid creams such as hydrocortisone but creams from Aveeno or Jergens Baby would irritate and burn his skin. When his skin started breaking and bleeding that's when I gave in and was prescribed Betaderm. After that, his skin started to heal but I hated the fact that I had to use a steroid cream on my lil' guy. He hadn't had much flare ups but once in a while when the weather was really dry I'd have to reach for the Betaderm. 

Enter Canadian brand, Diane Lai's, all-natural creams and lotions for sensitive skin. I was definitely skeptical because other all-natural creams I had tried on him still made his skin burn. Not anymore! It was Diane's child who has sensitive skin that inspired her to create this soothing collection. The products contain no Parabens, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, artificial fragrance, artificial colorants, Retinols, Sulfates, Petro Chemicals, or Oxybenzone.

Both Soothe and Rejuvenate contain active ingredients organic shea butter, kernel oil, cold-pressed grape seed oil a natural moisturizer rich in antioxidants.

Rejuvenate ($45 CAD): This is a daily moisturizer that helps maintain soft and healthy skin. Rejuvenate is a lipid replenishing body lotion to smooth, protect and restore the skins natural barriers to reduce dryness, irritation, and scratching. 

Can I tell you how excited I was when my son didn't complain about having irritated skin?? I use it all over from head to toe and ever since the first slather I haven't had to reach for his Betaderm! The overall texture of his skin is so much smoother. It never left a greasy finish and soaked quickly into the skin. The bottle is 100 ml and all done now but it lasted for about 2 months.Whaaa! Time to buy one!

Soothe ($34 CAD): Since my bottle of Rejuvenate is all gone, I've started using Soothe as my son's body/face lotion. This particular cream is used to soothe red, patchy, itchy flare ups. You can also use this cream to alleviate itchiness from mosquito bites and pain from sunburns. It comes in a smaller 30 ml bottle and probably would last longer if I wasn't using it daily on him as a body lotion. I'm kind of sad it's almost done but I know I'll be picking this one up as well! 
If you don't believe me, ask my son! If he can tell me I look more beautiful with makeup, he'll tell you these creams really work! And for all you prego mommies out there, this collection is also great for minimizing stretch marks and soothing itchiness from a growing belly!

The products are only available online www.dianelai.com. Hopefully stores will start carrying this line! And I hope both products will come in a bigger bottle! It may seem like a pricey lotion for your kids but aren't they worth it?? ;)

Have you tried Diane Laine's products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em? 



, , , |

Makeup Junkie Holiday Giveaway #7: Winter Skin Savers From Elizabeth Grant!

My skin is having a hard time finding its happy place right now. Patchy dry skin - not fun. Oh and the best part? Now that I'm losing my summer tan, my dark circles seem even more noticeable against my pale-ish skin. Blah.

If you're having the same skin issues as me, I hope these skincare must-haves from Elizabeth Grant will help you out!


One lucky winner will win:
  • Vitamin C Illuminating Eye Pads 6 Pack: You'll need these when you're dashing around from holiday party to party! So go ahead and be a social butterfly. These under eye illuminating pads are rich in skin brightening and smoothing vitamin C. Apply daily or weekly - depending on how many holiday parties you've attended.
  • Lubricating Body Treatment: Nothing is worse that trying to scratch an itch under layers and layers of clothes. This body cream is heavy duty, yet luxurious, containing a rich blend of aloe extract, Vitamin E, and shea butter to make skin velvety smooth. 
  • Total value of $48 CAD!

Contest Details: 
  • To win, you must follow Makeup Junkie on Facebook and Twitter: Twitter.com/makeupjunkieJDT. Leave a comment telling me what your secret weapon against dark circles is, your name, and your email address in a similar format "joy[at]makeupjunkie[dot]ca". Tweet or re-tweet with hashtag: #MakeupJunkiegiveaway. If you aren't on Twitter, just visit the Makeup Junkie page and make a comment about the giveaway! Please remember, if I haven't seen your tweet or a comment on the Makeup Junkie FB page you cannot qualify for the contest.
  • Contest runs until November 29th. Winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced by 12 pm EST.  
  • Open to Canadian residents only. 
Good luck and stay tuned for the last giveaway of the week!

http://elizabethgrant.com

, , , |

Beauty Review: Your Eyes Are Covered With CoverFX EyePrep FX!


The eyes reveal everything. They aren't just the windows to your soul. Your eyes reveal how late you were up the night before and whether it's time for some Botox. And when it comes to your makeup, it's a daily struggle figuring out how to make your morning eyeshadow look as fabulous at the end of the day.

All your eye woes have been answered! A few months ago I attended the blogger launch of CoverFX's newest star, EyePrep FX. Like its other face primers, this eye primer is a hit! This multi-tasking eye primer not only preps your skin for foundation, concealer, and eye shadow but it is also an eye cream that has anti-aging properties and is free of parabens. Those with oily lids will especially love the fact that it is silicone-free so your shadow won't budge all day. Use day and night as your eye cream and if you want to reap all the anti-aging benefits, don't layer with your traditional eye cream.

Top: Without EyePrep FX
Bottom: With EyePrep FX

Ever since I received this, I've been using it on myself and all my brides. I love that it cuts the amount of product I have to use. My bride is getting the nourishment of an eye cream all the while keeping her shadow smear/tear proof. As you can see from the swatch, the primer really enhances the pigment of the shadow making it more vibrant and rich and this shadow on its own is pretty pigmented. Once the primer is on the lid, the shadow just glides on and stays put all day.

For an eye cream/primer that does it all, paying $43 CAD doesn't seem so bad especially compared to department store eye creams. On a job, one of the makeup artists asked the model, who happens to be a skin specialist at Murale, what eye cream she recommends. Thinking she would suggest a really expensive brand, she pulled out a sample size of CoverFx EyePrep from her purse. I almost squealed and we blabbered about how much we love it! 

As for the pump feature, I find a lot of beauty brands are going this route. If you're not careful, it can sometimes dispense too much product. The trick is to pump it using small, quick pumps. This way you don't end up having to waste a glob of product. 

Have you tried CoverFX EyePrep FX? Well you should - your eyes will thank you!


, , , |

Beauty Review: Secret Beauty Weapon - Elizabeth Grant The Socializer!


My "death circles" as I so fondly refer to them as, are so dark some mornings it scares me. I am never without a good eye cream and finding a product that brightens the under-eye area is essential. Elizabeth Grant's The Socializer ($40 CAD), is being labeled as "Canada's secret beauty weapon" for de-puffing tired eyes and giving a more youthful and radiant appearance.

If you're a social butterfly and go from morning meetings to late night cocktails most days, then The Socializer was made for you in mind. It is a light-weight eye treatment with 2 click pens that keep your eyes looking hydrated, well-rested, and illuminated. 'Bright Lights' contains Mica, a mineral light diffuser that brightens and 'Late Nights' blends peptides and Ulva Lactuta to rejuvenate, repair, and awaken the eye area. Mica is generally safe for your skin, but if your skin type is extremely sensitive (severe cases) and you are normally allergic to mica, it may cause some skin irritation. It's always good to double check with your dermatologist.

It became obvious to me that I am a victim of too many late nights and sadly not from anything too exciting (unless you consider trying to get the kiddo to sleep exciting)! I didn't realize that the 'Bright Lights' pen was for the AM and 'Late Nights' was for the PM even though it is clearly stated on the instructions! I thought I had to apply 'Late Nights' first as the eye cream and then 'Bright Lights' over top to brighten. Lesson? Get more sleep!

I like the fact that the 'Bright Lights' offers instant results. I love the luminous finish and the cool, refreshed feeling it leaves around my eyes. The brightening effect also diffuses my fine lines, dark circles and as a result I end up using less concealer. As for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and 'crows feet' only time will tell - I've only been using it for less than a week but am loving it so far. I'm a big fan of the click pen feature as you don't have to dip your fingers in like most eye creams. The chic, portable packaging was made for us on-the-go gals. And at $40 a pop, you get 2 eye creams. It really is a beauty steal!

For more information on Elizabeth Grant products, visit http://elizabethgrant.com.

Have you tried this product? Love it? Hate it? Want it?

Product was sent for editorial consideration. 

, , |

Beauty Feature: Spring Forward!

The transition from winter to spring can be a bumpy flaky ride. Got skin? Then you'll want to know these skin-loving products. Sure, there are tons of pretty makeup out there but if your skin doesn't look good then nothing will. Spring forward and look healthy and radiant!


1. SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser ($60 USD): If you have normal to moderately dry skin then you'll love the velvety texture of this cleanser. My skin always feels hydrated after. The magic ingredient is Pitera, a combination of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and organic acids that work together to restore the appearance of your skin while helping the skin rejuvenate on its own. I don't mind splurging on skin care but if the price is too steep try Burt's Bees Soap Bark and Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream.

2. Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner ($43 CDN): I love using this after I cleanse the skin. My face always feels refreshed - great to use throughout the day when your skin needs a pick-me-up. Use this before you apply your moisturizer. It not only tones and smooths the skin, but allows your moisturizer to really soak in.

3. Rodial Glamtox Eye Light SPF 15 ($143.94 CDN): I know, the price is ridiculous! But I've fallen in love with this eye cream and I just might...I received the travel size and now I think I'll have to ration it! I rarely ever do reviews on eye creams but this one really works for me! Rodial is your all-natural approach to plastic surgery. Their magic ingredient is Pomegranate Ellagic Tanin that boosts collagen production and restores youthfulness. It really hydrates my eyes and my fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness are less noticeable. I just love the radiant finish.

4. Rodial Glamtox SPF 18 ($156.50 CDN): I like to apply my moisturizer after my eye cream so it can help lock in the moisture. It's safe enough for around the eyes. I'm really sad my travel size has run out. When the hubby and friends think you're wearing makeup when you're really not is proof enough for me that this skin cream is fabulous! It really brightens and plumps up the skin. I've fallen in love with it but we may have to put our relationship on hold. When money is no object, maybe but would you spend that much on a skin cream??

5. Rodial Glam Balm ($100 CDN): Thank god I still have quite a bit left in my travel size pot! This is a multi-purpose anti-aging plumping treatment for your face, lips, neck and hands. My lips don't have a problem with fullness, but I love using this as a finishing touch around the eyes. Also great on the cuticles and as an intensive night treatment for the eyes. Dot a bit on the high planes of the cheeks and you have an instant highlight!

6. Cover FX Brightening Foundation Primer and Photo-Aging Defense SPF 50 ($45 USD): My makeup doesn't hold up so well if I don't use a primer. Primers these days do more than keep your makeup on. All Cover FX primers have anti-aging benefits and improve problematic skin. I love the Brightening primer for those days when my skin looks tired and needs a perk-me-up. I find for drier skin it does a good job at hydrating. The texture goes on a little liquidy but smooths easily onto the skin. Your left with a luminous, radiant finish. The "blur" affect minimizes my imperfections and fine lines and best of all keeps my makeup looking good all day!

7. Korres Face Primer ($28 USD): If you have sensitive skin and have an allergy to silicone, then you will love Korres 99% natural silicone-free primer. My initial thought was that it wouldn't hold up as well as a primer with silicone but this one is awesome! I am in love with it! It contains Vitamin E so over time you'll notice an improved appearance in your skin. My skin always looks smooth and also has a brightening effect. It feels nice and light on the skin and glides on like a moisturizer. Your makeup at night will look as fresh as it did in the morning! 

8. Tarte Smooth Operator SPF 20 ($36 USD): When the weather gets warmer I love to switch my foundation to a tinted moisturizer with an SPF. Some tinted moisturizers don't give enough coverage but not Tarte's version. I still get optimal coverage without a heavy feeling. This all-natural tint has micro-treated mineral pigments that help diffuse fine lines and wrinkles. My skin looks luminous without looking oily, important as the weather warms up. The line has been relaunched with a new look and darker shades! I find the new tube is less messy. I'm using Agent 14, for medium complexions with yellow undertones, but I get dark in the summer so I'll have to try Agent 16, for medium dark complexions with golden undertones. 

9. Tarte Provocateur Mineral Pressed Powder SPF 8 ($30 USD): I love this mineral powder because it doesn't look like you're wearing powder. During spring and summer, skin should look fresh and not caked on with powder. It applies silky smooth and is the perfect compliment to the Smooth Operator. Your makeup is perfectly set and you still get a pretty glow. It comes packaged in a super cute in a royal purple quilted compact. I prefer using a brush but the sponge is good for quick touch-ups. The line has also added 2 new darker shades! I'm a Honey 12, for medium to dark complexions with golden undertones. 

10. Korres Lip Butter in Guava ($13 CDN): Finish off healthy skin with an all-natural lip moisturizer. When I tried Korres Lip Butter in Wild Rose, I fell in love. I decided I wanted this on my lips at all times but needed a clear one. I picked up Guava and I can't get enough! Yes, you have to dip your finger in the pot but I don't mind especially when my lips feel buttery smooth. A little goes a long way and I rarely have to reapply throughout the day (but I do anyways). The scent is also nice and light. You can also wear these on the cheeks for a dewy stain, but Guava works better as a highlighter on the cheekbones. I want the entire line - 2 down 5 to go! 

What products are apart of your skin care regime? Have you tried these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

, , , , , , , , , |

Beauty Feature: Winter Skin Savers - Facial Treatments


The other day while braving the cold waiting for the bus, I could feel the harsh wind giving my skin a few slaps. My cheeks were rouge and not in a good way. Here are some new facial treatments I cannot live without this winter!

1. Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask ($52 USD): If there is one skin care product I've fallen in love with this winter season it's this product! This frothy mask releases oxygen into your skin, leaving you instantly brighter, fresher and more youthful looking. You don't even have to wait 20 minutes or more before washing it off - all you need is 5 minutes! I love using this when my skin is looking its worse especially when I'm in a hurry. Seriously, my skin looks amazing and feels dewy soft. Flaky, sensitive skin? Then this is exactly the quick moisture fix your skin needs. Take home a little of the Bliss Spa experience with you everytime and anytime!

2. Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Treatment Lotion ($30 USD): Just like a foundation performs better with a primer, your skin care regime should begin with a product to help optimize its performance. This extremely light, hydrating lotion with Hypsizygus ulmarius, Cordyceps and Reishi mushrooms along with Ginger, Holy Basil and Turmeric quickly yet gently soothes and penetrates skin for hydration and a calmer complexion. Ever since I've started using this, I rarely have a flaky moment or sensitive flare ups. It's one skin saver your skin will happily soak up this winter season!

3. Origins Modern Fusion Skin Transforming Catalyst ($37 USD): This may have a fancy name but it really does transform the skin! A weightless serum containing a Rice Refinishing complex fused with radiance-restoring Rice Optics, dull, sallow skin will eventually disappear as will roughness, brown spots and signs of sun damage. It promises with regular use the glow, luminosity, clarity, vibrancy, and a more youthful experience will return! I've been using it for over 4 weeks now and my skin definitely looks brighter and more luminous. Even my dark spots and blemishes have lightened! It may be one too many steps in your skin care regime but after seeing the results it's worth it!

, , , , , |

Beauty Feature: Winter Skin Savers - Moisturizers

There are many beauty products I can't live without and my face moisturizer is definitely at the top of the list. When your skin is dry and patchy, your makeup just won't look right no matter how much concealer you pile on. The key to less makeup on your skin is cleansing and moisturizing your face on a daily basis. Get healthy, radiant skin this winter with these skin-saving moisturizers!

Whether you're hitting the slopes or making snow angels this winter, protect your skin with Kiehl's super-hydrating Ultra Facial Cream ($31 CAD). This light-weight moisturizer gives your skin continous water replenishment all day long. With ingredients like Anarcticine, a Glycoprotein extracted from microorganisms sourced from sea glaciers, and Imperata Cylindrica, a plant found in the Australian desert that retains water in dry conditions, this skin saver is meant to protect your skin and keep you looking soft and supple in cold temperatures. With the light texture your skin will feel comfortable, never heavy or greasy. I expected the cream to go on thick, but even without the richness like other creams I've tried, my skin stayed beautifully moisturized and flake-free all day long! Ultra Facial Cream is a definite must-have this winter, perfect for both day and night!

Do dry, sensitive skin have you singing the winter blues? Your skin will feel heavenly with LUSH Celestial Moisturizer ($21.95 CAD). This totally vegan, all natural moisturizer has a mixed blend of vanilla, almond milk and dove orchid to calm and hydrate irritated skin from city pollution or harsh weather conditions. A little goes a long way with this rich cream so use sparingly to avoid feeling greasy on the skin. This works wonders on those days when my face is sensitive, dehydrated and red. I love applying Celestial Moisturizer before I go to bed so my skin can soak in all the moisture and repair itself overnight. I wake up with a soft, smooth complexion every morning! You'll love the subtle vanilla-almond scent as well! Indeed a special treat for the skin this winter!

Bulky skin care products can make packing for those winter getaways a challenge. All you need for cleansing and moisturizing is Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè (24-Hour Miracle Cream, $25 USD). A cult classic among makeup artists everywhere, you will find this wonder cream in many makeup kits used backstage on models when washing and moisturizing the face isn't an option. I was excited to get my hands on this cream at the Canadian Makeup Show after having gone so many years without it! This rich moisturizer nourishes and repairs the skin without a heavy texture. It also leaves a soft, dewy finish and primes the skin perfectly for makeup application. You can even use it to calm irritated skin after shaving! Throw this cream in your travel bag and you're good-to-go!

The winter weather may be a special treat for oily skin types, but oily skin can get dry too. The Body Deli Flash Flood Light Facial Emulsion ($36 USD) is an oil-free light moisturizer excellent for acne/blemish treatment. It works double-time also hydrating parched skin. Salicylic acid and their proprietary blend of Silica, Sulphur, Maganezium and Copper act as a benzol peroxide alternative to help heal and clear up blemishes without drying out the skin. Your skin will be left feeling clean, fresh and blemish-free!

Have you tried these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em?

, , , , , , , |

Makeup Junkies – Take Care Of Your Skin With DDF!



The first rule in cosmetics, as a true Makeup Junkie, is having a fabulous moisturizer. There is no sense in buying good quality make-up, if the creams and lotions you apply to your skin day and night aren’t working for you.

I was fortunate enough to get into my hands DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer! This beautiful little pump bottle is a fantastic cream. DDF stands for “Doctor’s Dermatologic Formula” and smoothing this rich cream on, I knew that it was protecting my skin from the every day harmful rays of not only the sun shining down on my face, but damage I had done before. This bottle promises to help you save your skin from future discolourations that many women and men face in their older age that may lead to skin cancer and sever skin discrepancies – Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation!

So, ladies, do yourselves a favour - Save your skin before it’s too late. And don’t think that in the winter time you’re free from wearing UVA and UVB screens! Year round, if your face is outside, you should be wearing protection. End of story.

This is a daytime moisturizer, so don’t waste it by using Protect and Correct before bedtime. Apply in the morning, under your make-up.

This bottle retails at $58 (USA) at your local Sephora.

, , , , |