Biore Triple Action Astringent

Astringent seems so 1980's, doesn't it?  Regardless, this is an item I've kept in my bathroom for a couple of years now.  It's a cheap product (between $5 and $9) and has helped keep my pores small and my face clear of breakouts, simply by helping remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup.

 

I will say I'm not sure this product would be for everyone.  I am not very acne-prone, and if I break out, it's because I haven't cleansed or exfoliated correctly, or because I used a bad product.  After I cleanse my face each night, I do a quick sweep of this and the cotton pad always has extra dirt and makeup on it that didn't come off with just my cleanser.  The active ingredient is your basic 2% salicylic acid, and there is some alcohol in this.  I don't mind that, and I get a very clean, tight, tingly feeling after using it.  And what's more - I don't break out.

I'm not sure how this Biore formulation differs from the other astringents in this price point (Clean and Clear, Clearasil, etc.), but it works much better, in my experience.  A good add to your medicine cabinet if you just want a little extra clean feeling on your face.

Moisturizers with SPF - Avon, Dermalogica, Aveeno

It's a given that everyone should be using facial moisturizers with SPF in them - and luckily, there are great options at any price point.  Jen wrote last week about Avon's Anew Rejuvenate Day Cream with SPF 25 - a great option at a mid-price point of $30.  

According to a recent article from Glamour, you need to...

"Make SPF Your BFF. Ward off future skin damage (think wrinkles and sun spots) by rubbing on a broad-spectrum formula that contains Helioplex, Mexoryl or Active Photobarrier Complex—they offer the longest-acting protection—has an SPF of at least 30 (the new everyday standard) and contains antioxidants."

They suggested one I've used often before - Aveeno's Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer.  This comes in SPF 15 or 30, and the 30 is certainly recommended.  This is a great product - besides providing sun protection, it also evens skin tone and texture, doesn't cause breakouts and isn't greasy.  Price point is low, between $10 and $15 depending on where you shop.

 

Another great option would be Dermalogica's AgeSmart Dynamic Skin Recovery w/SPF 30.  I am currently using this as my daily moisturizer and have been pleased with it.  This is a higher-price option at around $60 per bottle, but provides a lot more age prevention and correction.

 

With so many solid options to protect your skin and improve it at the same time, there's really no excuse to NOT use one of them and keep your skin beautiful for years to come!

Hand Cream - Avon Moisture Therapy

Since Jen was kind enough to share an Avon facial moisturizer she loves in the previous post, I thought it fitting that I share another Avon product that really works - their Moisture Therapy Intensive Healing & Repair Hand Cream.  

 My mom actually bought a container of this for my husband - being a firefighter, he uses his hands all the time and they get cracked and dry.  But I (ahem) "borrowed" it from his cabinet and may have had a little trouble putting it back.  It's thick and creamy, and really soaks into my hands and feet.  It doesn't feel greasy or heavy after soaking in.  It's also hypoallergenic, which is important for some folks.  The smell is light, almost non-existent, and very clean.

I will admit I had to travel for work and forgot regular lotion, so I used this all over my body.  Regular body skin isn't nearly as thirsty as hands and feet, so I had to really keep rubbing it in, but it still worked.

I don't love many Avon products (sorry, Avon!), but this hand cream is great.  They offer an Oatmeal version to help relieve itch that's also highly rated.  The best part about these products?  They cost $1.99!  Definitely a good buy for those of us who are addicted to hand creams!