skin care » Addicted to All Things Pretty

MAC Cosmetics Lightfully New SKin Care Collection Spring 2012

Jan 192012

M·A·C LIGHTFUL CLEANSER ($25.00 U.S./$30.00 CDN)
M·A·C LIGHTFUL SOFTENING LOTION ($30.00 U.S./$36.00 CDN)
M·A·C LIGHTFUL ESSENCE ($40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN)
M·A·C LIGHTFUL MOISTURE CREME ($40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN)

LIGHTFUL MARINE BRIGHT: A NATURAL
UPGRADE TO THE ORIGINAL LIGHTFUL, OUR UNIQUE
MARINE-BRIGHT FORMULA FEATURES THREE
SEAWEEDS HARVESTED FROM THE WORLD’S OCEANS.
NOURISH, HYDRATE, DE-OXIDIZE AND FORTIFY THE SKIN
AGAINST KEY AGGRESSORS – EXCESS MELANIN AND
FREE-RADICALS – WHILE PROGRESSIVELY SHIFTING THE
COMPLEXION TOWARD A MORE EVENLY PIGMENTED RADIANCE.
ADDING TO THIS TRIO’S POTENCY: OUR OWN SUPER-DUO
CHARGED WATER, LIGHTFUL CLEANSER, ESSENCE, MOISTURE CREME,
AND SOFTENING LOTION. YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT!

Neutrogena One Step Gentle Cleanser Pictures and Review

Jan 112012

Neutrogena One Step Gentle Cleanser

Neutrogena One Step Gentle Cleanser - Ingredients

One Step Gentle Cleanser does double-duty as a cleanser and makeup remover.

This rich, silky foaming formula combines the cleansing power of a face wash with the effectiveness of a makeup remover. The single-step approach shaves minutes off your bedtime beauty routine.

Rich, silky formula cleans skin without stripping moisture
Rinses completely clean
Dermatologist tested
Hypoallergenic

As annoying as I find it that Neutrogena has 416,733,971 facial cleansers, I’m glad I found one that I love. I’m a firm believer that a facial cleanser is supposed to be 3 things; a makeup remover (I don’t waste money on makeup remover anymore), gentle, and a great cleanser. One Step Gentle Cleanser did it all, but best of all its affordable and who doesn’t like a deal? The lather was very rich and almost cream-like. It removed all traces of my makeup, cleansed my skin with not residue or tightness, and left it baby soft. It took the same length of time to cleanse my face with this cleanser as it would had I used a baby wipe, which isn’t as quick as you make think since I wear a lot of mascara. Even though the product wasn’t difficult to remove at all, I do feel that it was the pump dispenses too much product. I could use a little less and still achieve the same results.

Availability: Mass Market Retailers and drug stores, I found this one at Target

Price: $6.49

Rating: A

Nude Skincare Cleansing Facial Oil Pictures and Review

Dec 092011

I’ve had my eyes on the Nude Skincare Cleansing Facial Oil for months. It comes highly recommended by Carm of Lipstick Fashion Mascara and I was even able to try a sample that came in a gift bag, so I was able to try it before committing to the full size. I bought the full size bottle during the Sephora V.I.B. event for 20% off. I’m not sure what went wrong because the sample was awesome; it removed makeup and cleansed my skin while providing moisture. It even removed my makeup with any issues. As with any oil cleanser I use, I did a nail test and it passed. I lightly ran my nail down my cheek and checked to see if any residue was left behind and it wasn’t.

As I had done previously with the sample packet, I applied the oil to dry skin, massaged for 1 minute, emulsified it using a small amount of water, and rinsed and used a hot towel to remove the rest of the cleanser. My skin was left with a heavy dirty residue and it didn’t feel clean. I considered a few factors; two pumps was too much product, I didn’t use enough water to emulsify the cleanser in-order for it to be completely removed, or the water wasn’t hot enough. The second time I used it I made the following changes: used one pump of product, more water to emulsify the cleanser, and warmer water during the removal process. For three nights in a row I tried this and found that the issue was that no matter was it wouldn’t emulsify which meant is would never breakdown enough to be removed completely. It seems as though I may have purchased a bad batch because it performed poorly compared to reviews I’ve read and the sample I used. I don’t have the patience to exchange it for another bottle as it would be coming from the same Sephora location but I will be exchanging it for something different all together.

INGREDIENTS: glycine soja (soybean) oil, polyglyceryl-4-oleate, squalene, tocopherol acetate, fragrance (parfum), benzyl benzoate, linalool, eugenol.

Availability: Sephora.com and NudeSkincare.com

Price: $36.00/ 3.4 fl. oz.

Rating: Inconclusive

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Pictures and Review…yes girls you need it!

Nov 282011

My Aunt Toni (a recovering beauty addict) was at the house rummaging through my bag of un-tried beauty products, when she personally pulled out the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser and requested a review. This product was probably towards the bottom of my list because I can smell the eucalyptus and it’s very reminiscent of that other cleanser that sounds like “oz-zema”. I was also have second thoughts about using a muslin cloth but then it dawned on me; I use a hot cotton face towel everyday when I wash my face so there’s no harm at all…it was all in my mind.

This cleanser is a creamy decedent whipped cream cleanser that you massage into dry skin. I used it after the shower and got fantastic results. I massaged it into my skin for 2 minutes and when removing makeup from the eyes or lips I focused on just that immediate area instead of circulating it all over my face. While testing the temperature of the hand-hot water, I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t turn into slick on my skin and rinsed well in lukewarm water. I placed the muslin cloth in hot water, rung it out, and proceeded to remove the cleanser in medium-sized circular motions. It removed easily and I didn’t feel a thick coating of moisturizer on my skin. I then finished by splashing cool water on my face (it was recommended but I wouldn’t do it in the future).

My skin was thoroughly cleansed and it was easy to see any leftover areas since I was using a white muslin cloth. Despite the product being white and the cloth being white as well, you can see a color variation when cleansing. It was gently polished and I had a nice glow and after day 2 my pores didn’t have any noticeable whiteheads even in the chin area. Keep in mind this won’t replace regular exfoliation since it’s very gentle to the skin; so it makes it perfect for all skin types, even sensitive. The cleanser has some pretty impressive ingredients and it isn’t filled with oil or junk. My skin was clean, smooth, hydrated, and my pores were tight without my skin having that tight dry feeling. The price point is wonderful; the starter kit (shown in the photo) includes a 3.3 fl. oz. bottle of cleanser with a pump and a machine washable muslin cloth (my kit came with 2 cloths but this isn’t specified on the site so I’m still waiting on confirmation. I actually gave my best friend the rest of my bottle and a cloth to prep her skin for wedding in 7 days and I’ll be placing my order online in the morning. I can’t wait for Liz Earle to take the U.S. by storm and be sold in stores like Sephora. Maybe if I put it out there it’ll happen.

Ingredients:

Availability: www.us.lizearle.com

Price: $24.50/ 3.3 fl. oz starter kit with cloth and various other sizes and ranging from $9-$114

Rating: A+

Ask Krissy: What type of chemical peel do you use?

Nov 272011

I saw you mentioned you get chemical peels. What type do you get or suggest?

-JH

Have a question for Krissy or Angelo (the stylist)? Send it here!

First consult your dermatologist about getting a chemical peel. something I can say I’ve never done because I’ve always got them done in the treatment room or did it myself at home. To select the right chemical peel you have to have a good understanding of your skin type, what issue you’re targeting, and the level (for the sake of this post I’ll rank them high, medium, and low). My first peel was with a low grade glycloic acid and it didn’t do anything. Weeks went by and I never peeled, just some redness on the first day. I’ve mentioned this before but I have tough stubborn skin. I did have good results with a lactic acid peel and it help with the overall tone of my skin (not so much with the hyperpigmenation). I used a TCA peel (I believe it was mid grade peel) and I frosted almost immediately and my skin was peeling in 1-2 days. It was far too aggressive and my skin looked great but the they weren’t as long-lasting as lactic acid. I don’t have any plans to do another peel anytime soon. I want microdermabrasion

I purchase my peels from Makeup Artists’ Choice and here’s their guide for selecting the right at-home chemical peel

How to choose the at home chemical peel that is right for you (via MakeupArtistsChoice.com):

Mandelic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid derived from the bitter almond nut. This is a gentle acid which exfoliates the skin with very little topical discomfort. Excellent for inhibiting the formation of brown spots, and hyperpigmentation. Will not cause unwanted lightening of the skin in darker skin tones. Treat acne, melasma, sun damaged skin, large pores, blackheads, wrinkles, dull, sallow skin.

Lactic acid: Derived from milk, milder than glycolic acid, and typically better for working on hyperpigmentation problems. Our formulation contains licorice extract, an effective skin lightening additive. Appropriate for dry skin or oily skin. An alpha hydroxy, this peel penetrates the epidermis-only. A great “first peel” for oily, dry, normal and sensitive skin types. The inherent properties of this peel make it ideal for clients with uneven skin tones and general hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic acid: A bit more aggressive than lactic acids, this is also an alpha hydroxy peel and will penetrate the epidermis. Glycolic acid is a good all-around acid for normal-oily skin types to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, as well as addressing the issues of acne, acne scarring, wrinkles and fine lines.

Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy): Oil soluble, thus making these acids perfect for oily/acne skin that needs deep pore cleansing and loosening of blackheads. Use this as a “first-step” when using alpha hydroxy acid peels to remove all oils from the skin, or use alone 3/4 times per week for oil/blackhead control. A beta-hydroxy, this acid penetrates the upper layers of the epidermis only. For a stronger treatment, use our 15% salicylic acid peel once a week.

TCA: Deeper peeling class of acids excellent for acne, lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, stretch marks, sun damage, lip lines, age spots and general scarring. Longer lasting results, more intensive. This peel penetrates the epidermis, into the upper layers of the dermis, thus producing a more effective peeling experience.

Jessner’s: A peel that is layered until it frosts, it contains alpha and beta hydroxies along with resorcinol. This peel is ideal for clients with cystic acne.

Non Acid Enzyme Peels: All natural enzymes safely dissolve surface skin debris and leave skin feeling soft, cleansed and refreshed. Our enzyme peels are professional strength, exactly what you would get in a very high-end salon. Use enzymes if you have sensitive skin that is non-tolerant of acid usage.

Tips for Keeping Your Décolleté Forever Young and Getting Rid of Blemishes on Your Chest

Nov 172011

If you own the Clarisonic Plus or Clarisonic Pro use the Body Brush Head with the cleansers of your choice. I told you guys the option to have the Body Brush Head would come in handy

If you don’t own it and want to save money use a gentle body brush or even a baby hair brush with your cleanser

Invest (and I’m not talking monetarily) in a good exfoliating facial cleanser; I use Alpha Hydrox Foaming Face Wash. It contains a small amount of alpha hydroxy acid to get rid of dead skin cells and enhance skin cell renewal. It can be found at most drug store for around $6. If you’re already using a facial cleanser, run it all the way down to your neck and chest area. The line of demarcation that no one wants to talk about can often be caused by using your facial cleansers in only the immediate are of your face, causing a noticeable variation of skin color.

Exfoliate once a week. Again, if you’re already exfoliating weekly run it down to the décolleté. If you’re not, grab Freeman’s Superfruits for only a few bucks.

For an intense exfoliation try Murad Intensive Resurfacing Peel (which may be too aggressive for more despite not seeing any peeling when I used it on my skin), or better yet try the Murad's Rejuvenating Lift for Neck and Décolleté.

Always moisturize at night and use sunscreen during the day

Photo

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Clarisonic

Nov 152011

Speed limitations – You can’t predict the level of aggressiveness your skin will need now or later on down the road, so don’t limit yourself. Also consider that what you may think is good with the normal setting may be just okay or even too aggressive. I have some facial cleansers that somewhat aggressive and work better with lower settings.
All models travel well…plus in the name of good skincare you’ll sacrifice a few inches. Size isn’t a huge issue. But I will admit, it’s great traveling with a friend that has a universal charger…but then again I’ve left my Clarisonic off the charger for a week and it still ran perfectly.
I went with the Clarisonic Pro and only use my 4^th setting once a month; it’s too aggressive to be used daily.
The body brush is a luxury, most of the time you’ll just use a body scrub. If you’re boo’d up maybe it’ll be great if you have your spouse use it on your back before the back rub.
Don’t be sold on the trial-sized cleansers. I personally didn’t like them, but also feel that if I’m spending that much money on a tool you should be more than happy to toss in a few samples of your cleansers, not list it in a way that makes it seem like its bargain. I’m sure stores like Sephora or Ulta will be more than willing to give.
The color options and personal engraving options for Mia, Mia 2, Normal and Plus models are cute, no doubt about it.
Look at the warranties. The Clarisonic isn’t a fly by night tool so you want something that’ll last and they range from 1-3 years.

More clarisonic…

Autumn Skin Care Routine: Treat and Repair…..Treat and Repair

Nov 142011

My routine may or may not work for you since I have oily skin, hyperpigmentation on my cheeks, and I’m blemish-prone so it’s always a battle being fought lol.

Makeup Remover

Dermalogica Eye Soothing Eye Make Up Remover, but I rarely use makeup remover since my face wash handles the removal of most of my makeup.

Facial Cleansers

DNA EGF Renewal Foaming Face Wash, gentle glycolic face wash that handles makeup removal very well without stripping my skin. *Used as my first of 2 cleansers, often used with my Clarisonic Pro

Lush Cosmetics Buche de Noel Cleanser, a gentle facial cleanser that softens, exfoliates, and adds a light veil of moisture, and of courses cleanses the skin *Used as my 2^nd cleanser but not on days that I exfoliate

Exfoliate

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intense Exfoliating Treatment, 1-2 times a week

Mask

Belle Butter Neutralizing Butter, 1-2 times a week

Treat & Repair

Murad Active Radiance Serum, people often forget that autumn comes after summer which means you have sun damage to repair. I had a great time baking in the sun but it’s time to get back to reality and stay #foreveryoung. Always remember to repair and moisturize during the autumn season. *Used day and night*

Moisturize

Lush Full of Grace Serum *morning and night

Specific Beauty Daily Hydrating Lotion with SPF 30 *during the day

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment Pictures and Review

Nov 102011

I’m the self-proclaimed queen of exfoliators; known to use everything under the sun on my blemish-prone skin…but I do have my limits and price plays a large role in my purchasing decisions. It’s hard to justify paying $85 for a 2 oz. tube for an exfoliator but after using it and thoroughly reviewing the ingredients I’m now a believer that it’s worth its weight in gold and would gladly swipe the card for a tube.

Not only did they combine micro-beads a physical exfoliation, but they’ve also added lactic acid that brightens the skin, fruit enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells, salicylic acid that kills bacteria to keep breakouts and pimples at bay, honey & aloe vera to hydrate the skin, and vitamin E to soften the skin. This exfoliator has everything! I own various exfoliators but they all only contain 1 or 2 of these ingredients so I keep them in rotation. Words can’t describe the pleasure of having everything you need in a single product. This exfoliator is very intensive and isn’t for those of you with sensitive skin. At times when I used it I could feel a tingle and after a few minutes I could tell I was ready for a cool rinse. I also noticed that I only needed to use it once a week versus 2-4 times a week. I can go on for days but I’m beyond impressed by the Kate Somerville’s brand and that they created such a wonderful product. If I have to pay up to have my skin in the best condition its been since my last chemical peel then I’d gladly pay.

The smell is spicy, I detect cinnamon (from the cinnamon oil). It isn’t annoying but it is noticeable. And I’m assuming the odd green color is from the aloe; neither issues bother me.

Tip: If you find it difficult to manipulate, run your fingers under the water to add more slip…don’t be tempted to add more product; all you need a pea-sized amount.

Availability: Sephora, Nordstrom, and www.KateSomerville.com

Price: $19/ 0.5 oz., $85/ 2 oz., $175/ $5 oz.

Rating: A+

Disclosure: This sample was in my Beautylish Beauty Social VIP Reception gift bag and not sent for review or purchased by myself.

Lush Cosmetics Bûche de Noël Limited Edition Holiday Facial Cleanser Pictures and Review

Nov 082011

Buche de Noel is French for yule log – not the kind you throw on the fire though, the kind you eat (a log-shaped cake). Although ours is full of edible ingredients too, we recommend you use it to cleanse your skin. Once you do, ‘yule’ be wishing you could wash with it all year long! Our holiday cleanser is suitable for all skin types, with gently exfoliating ground almonds, softening almond oil, and nutrient-rich seaweed. Hydrating, softening and equally important, this cleanser smells stunning!

A gently exfoliating and nutrient-rich cleanser, suitable for all skin types.

A gift for your skin, to keep it soft and fresh the whole season through.

Ground almonds polish and brighten skin tone.

Let me just begin by saying I’m already not happy about being hooked on a face cleanser that’s limited edition. I’ve used Lush Angels on Bare Skin since I started using Lush products almost 3 years ago, so trying a new holiday version of AOBS seems fitting since we’re in the holiday season. The scent of Bûche de Noël is perfect and not the typical accords of spice, berries, or pine; imagine oatmeal with butter, vanilla, and fresh cranberries. I prefer to use Bûche de Noël as my second cleanser once my makeup is removed. I found it to be a gentle exfoliating cleanser and also skin softening (assuming because of the almond oil, glycerine, and cocoa butter).

As much as I love it I have to admit that it is a bit messy. This is something I’ve come to accept because after all it is a unique product and just as with Angels on Bare Skin (for combination skin), Herbalism (for oily skin), Aqua Marina (for sensitive skin), and Dark Angels (for oily skin and breakouts), it simply comes with the territory of having great products that aren’t made for bottle and typical use. You either love it or hate it, and for most that hate it we still use it because they’re so wonderful to the skin. Make sure your face is damp, take a pea-sized chunk and make it into a paste using warm water in your hand, than massage it into the skin. Make sure you rinse thoroughly. I noticed with Bûche de Noël I often had a few tiny grounds left on my face.

Thankfully I have to pass Lush on my ride to and from work every day because during the last visit, Bûche de Noël was sold out so I was given a sample. As soon as they’re stocked again I’ll be buying a full-sized pod.