7 daily cleansers: the natural way

had a request for some more natural options for skincare products - so let's look at some options, shall we?  (note: still researching some really fabulous lesser-known natural brands - for now, these are good options you can find at Sephora, Ulta, Macy's)

read over and tell me: if you had to pick one of these right now, which would you choose and why?

1. for most anyone: Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash, $22

I have some of this at home at all times. It's one of the best basic cleansers out there.

pros:
foams well
creamy texture works well with Clarisonic or other facial brushes
helps balance dry and oily skin
very gentle
smells lovely (bergamot, spearmint, lavender)
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
origins is committed to plant-based skincare, recycling, and earth-friendly manufacturing practices

cons:
none that I can think of


2.  also for most anyone: Ole Henricksen African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser, $30

this one is also great for everyone - it is applied in a foam texture vs. the creamy Origins texture

pros:
foams well, gentle, nourishing
contains antioxidants to protect skin, vitamin C to brighten skin
citrus-scented
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
vegan
no synthetic materials
*was named the best natural cleanser at the Natural Health Beauty Awards

cons:
no real cons. $8 more than the Origins, but not a big deal.


3. if you need cleansing AND exfoliating: REN Micro Polish Cleanser, $30

two-in-one foaming mousse to cleanse and exfoliate

pros:
the exfoliating ingredients can help with discoloration and uneven skin tone, making skin more radiant over time
exfoliating regularly also helps prevent breakouts
no parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, triclosan

cons:
I personally think REN products smell a little weird. not BAD, just weird. 
also, this is strong enough that it should only be used 2 to 3 times per week, so you'll need another gentler daily cleanser as well for those in between days.


4. if you want to really break up makeup: Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil, $30

An oil-texture cleanser can be great for dissolving/melting away makeup!

pros:
very gentle, ideal for sensitive skin
does NOT leave an oily residue, despite how it might seem - rinses away cleanly
removes even waterproof cosmetics
antioxidants & amino acids to protect skin
botanicals to soothe skin (hydrangea leaf to purify and minimize pores, geranium to improve circulation)
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
no preservatives, artificial fragrance, color, gluten, or ethanol alcohol

cons:
the only tiny con for me is that it's a two-step process - you rub the oil into your skin to dissolve makeup and dirt, then add water and it emulsifies - then you rinse.  it's an extra 10 seconds, tops, so NBD.


5. if you're lazy: Ole Henricksen Nurture Me Cleansing Cloths, $15

pros:it's a wipe, and no rinsing required.
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
recyclable materials
removes even waterproof makeup
leaves skin soft

cons:
while these are good, the clean you get isn't as good as cleansing with water, period.  but in a pinch, these are great to have around. 


6. if your skin is dry: Caudalie Gentle Cleansing Milk, $28

pros:
soft, milky texture
no rinsing required - just wipe off with cotton or cloth
leaves skin really comfortable
helps protect against free radicals
did I mention no rinsing? yeah, that's a nice option.
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
hypo-allergenic, non-comedogenic. 
suitable for sensitive skin & eyes, dermatologist & ophthalmologist tested.  

cons:
takes a few more seconds and usually two rounds of wiping with this type of cleanser to get all makeup/dirt/dead skin removed, but you're also not drying your skin out more, so possibly worth it.


7.  if you fancy - want luxury+nature: Omorovicza Cleansing Foam, $80

want to feel fancy, but still be a little more earth friendly?  this one's for you.

pros:
aerated cleansing foam
gentle and effective 
anti-aging benefits
powerful antioxidants support natural collagen and elastic production
"Omorovicza’s patented mineral delivery system ensures absorption of minerals - skin looks better over time as ingredients are more absorbed. dermatological benefits of this enhanced delivery include: the support of natural collagen and elastin, a tighter lipid matrix to lock in hydration and protect skin from micro-damage, and improved antioxidant defense against free radicals."
no parabens, sulphates, phthalates
no polyethylene glycol, petrochemicals, silicones, synthetic colors, or synthetic fragrances. 

cons:
it sounds amazing, but it's $80. maybe worth it, still.  I want it. Now.

 

I'm back - upcoming posts, and the best drugstore beauty products?

I'm baaaa---aaaaack.  and I have red hair now.

Hi, beauty lovers.

I took a (LONG) break from blogging here to focus on some other things in life, and found myself missing it.  So, here I am.

While I am no longer officially working in a beauty advisor capacity for Macy's (that period of life was lovely fun, but naturally ended as things evolved), it's still a major love and hobby.  I have amazing friends who work in the beauty industry, and they keep me well-informed, and I plan to feature some of them shortly!

So, in upcoming posts, we'll have some recommendations for primers, cleansers, hair products and more...and of course, if you have any questions, send them my way, happy to post!

In the meantime, Influenster just posted some videos on their top drugstore beauty finds under $10 - check those with links below if you're interested.

10 Best Drugstore Concealers

10 Best Drugstore Mascaras

10 Best Drugstore Foundations

I admit I haven't tried any of these products, but if you're on a budget or need to grab something quickly at the drugstore, these could be good places to start!

More to come...

xoxo
jess

Happy New Year: 15 for 2015

While I've already written about a plethora of products that I enjoyed this past year, I've been lucky enough to try quite a few others that haven't made it to the blog just yet.  Some I loved, some...not so much.  Quick thoughts on those below...here are 15 products for 2015!

1. Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation 

In a word...nope. Not for me, anyway.  This foundation was watery, looked yellow on me (either the tones are very yellow or it oxidizes weirdly), and didn't do anything for my skin.   


2. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation

In another word...still, nope. Still yellowy. This one is thicker and more long-wear, and I did like the finish better than the first, but it was still not flattering.


3. Chanel Perfection Lumiere Long-Wear Foundation

My girl at our Chanel counter (Meray) was sweet enough to do my makeup for our holiday photos, and she used this foundation.  I've tried it a couple of times now and it's pretty spot on.  My only (small) issue is that I seem to be between two colors, but that's my problem.  The foundation itself is great. Good coverage, long wear. Highly recommend. $57


4. Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner & Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad

I love Chanel's eye makeup overall.  This liner goes on smoothly and stays on, and comes in great shades.  The eye shadows come in gorgeous in-style shades with lots of pigment - they also stay on, especially with a good eye primer.  I had some people ask how to get the eyes I had on in my holiday photos..well, these are how.  Liner $32, shadow quads $61


5. Chanel Lotion Douceur Toner - Balance + Anti Pollution

Everyone knows I adore a good toner, and this one is pretty excellent.  I can wash my face at night really well, wake up in the morning and use this, and it still brings off dead skin and other buildup from products.  It doesn't feel astringent at all; it's very gentle. Definitely recommend...and the bottle is really big. $45


6. Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer

When I ran out of primer, I decided to give this one a whirl. It fills in fine lines and pores for a very smooth, perfected look, and it does help my foundation last longer.  Some other primers offer a bit more benefit, like anti-aging, sun protection, or color correction, so I can't say this is the BEST primer, but at $35, it's really affordable and worth the cost.


7. Clarisonic Brush Head Collection

I am already obsessed with the Clarisonic (refer to earlier blog post), and was excited to learn that changing the brush head type actually makes a pretty big difference.  I decided to go with the deep pore cleansing brush, and was a little skeptical about it feeling very different - and I was happily proven wrong.  Brushes are $27 to $30; they recommend changing every 3 months, but they really last at least 6 months for me. Brushes are available for sensitive skin, delicate cleansing, radiance, deep pore, and acne.


8. Estee Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup

Mixed feelings on this - great if you want a little coverage/evening, but prefer the "no makeup" look and feel.  Very sheer and fairly invisible.  I personally like a hair more coverage, but if you're into this look/feel, it's a good product. $37


9. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Powder

I have to buy powder once every 2 years (maybe), and this time around, I went with Double Wear.  Goes on smooth, doesn't dry out, stays on.  That's what most of us need from a powder compact, right?  DW is enough coverage to be worn alone if you prefer, as well...but I use only a tad for touch ups. $40


10. Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash

While I am not super picky about cleansers, I prefer not to use drugstore brands (too harsh or drying), and I like something that smells fresh, works well in hands or with the Clarisonic, and cleans everything off my face! This cleanser fits the bill, and since Origins is all natural, I feel good about using it.  It helps balance combination skin.  It's also great for men, dissolving dirt and oil without a feminine scent. $21.50


11. Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

I knew this mask had a bit of a cult following, and now I know why.  The Origins description really says it best:  When environmental toxins, dirt and debris get under your skin, its waste-filtering system gets jammed, pores get clogged, skin looks cloudy. Nature’s complexion clean-up crew gets to the bottom of skins overcast condition and clears the way for it to act its best. Activated Charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers, White China Clay absorbs environmental toxins, Lecithin dissolves impurities. Without all that “stuff” down there, skin “breathes a sigh of relief.” And...it works.  I use it once a week and have noticed a marked difference. In fact, I think I'll use it today. $25


12.  Origins Modern Friction Nature's Microdermabrasion

Another product with a big following...and I'm a fan. Again, I love the Origins info:
Here’s age-smoothing exfoliation without irritation. Skin-refining Rice Starch, cushioned in cream, shows real affinity for rapidly removing sluggish cells, uneven patches and signs of skin damage and discolorations. Lemon Oil kick starts the process of illumination. Another age-sweeping action: skin-menacing molecules are mopped up. All while Aloe keeps skin calm and comfy. There’s no ouch, extra steps or other complications. No redness or flaking follows. Signs of fine lines and size of pores appear to shrink in size. Skin looks polished, smooth and luminous. And the perk-me-up aromas of Bergamot and Peppermint help you look on the bright side. Best for all skin types.  Couldn't have said it better.  It lives in my shower now. $39.50


13. Origins High Potency Night-a-Mins 

While this night cream isn't quite as moisturizing as some heavier options, it does moisturize - but it really brightens, I notice a difference in the morning.  It's most definitely like a vitamin dose for your face. Put dullness to rest. Wake up radiant & refreshed. Now nature's famed night cream is fortified with a system of time-released resurfacers plus Vitamins C, E & H, minerals & moisture-rich replenishers. While relaxing aromas lull you to sleep, skin sloughs away dry, dead layers. Deletes dullness. 98% of those who tested it agreed-skin was renewed and refreshed in the AM. Helps the slumber deprived wake up on the bright side of the bed. $41


14.  Origins Blade Runner Energizing Shave Cream

 

For the men out there, Origins makes a cream shave that my husband has decided is pretty fantastic. It creates a friction-free shave so the razor isn't pulling the hairs and smells nice.  Also has some skin boosting ingredients...good for those men who refuse to use moisturizer, right?  (And yes, I use my husband as a test subject for men's products) $16


15. Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion

Last, but certainly not least, eye primer has become a must-have for anyone who wears eye makeup. I gave my sister some for Christmas, and these are her words to me: "You weren't kidding about that Urban Decay eye primer. I used it last night for my NYE eye makeup, and it looked like I had just put it on when I woke up this morning! Sparkly eyes first thing in the morning. And yes, I went to bed with my makeup on. It was NYE. Sue me."  That says is all, right? $20, and the small tube will last a long time. 


There we have it.  2015. Fifteen product reviews.  Any favorites here, ladies (and gents)?

J.

Clinique Favorites: November 2014

Continuing in the favorites vein, I thought I'd post a few recommended products from the Clinique line - they have some good holiday gift sets, so it may be worth considering.  Clinique is formulated to be hypo-allergenic and good for people with really sensitive skin.  I admit I don't use many of their products, as they seem to work best for very young skin...i.e. teens to early 20s.  However, I know people of all ages who seem to love it, and the price point is lower than other counter brands.

Three favorites:

1. Fresh Bloom All-over Colour: Love this stuff.  It comes in three flattering shades (pink, nude, plum tones) that go on lightly to give a sheer/subtle flush of color without being too bright.  I love some dramatic blush, but when I need some easy color, this is a go-to. $30

2. Perfectly Real Foundation. Natural finish, medium coverage, oil free, non-acnegenic. Comes in LOTS of shades.  Love the coverage and the fact that it doesn't feel heavy. $26 

3. High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara.  If you like dramatic lashes, this is definitely worth checking out - this is a thickening formula with a rubber bristle brush to separate lashes.  The effect is not quite as natural as some mascaras, but it's definitely dramatic, giving BIG lashes. $16.50

Am I missing anything you love from Clinique, folks?

Estee Lauder Favorites - November 2014

I've spent a significant amount of time helping out at our Estee Lauder counter lately, as they are making some team changes. This has allowed me time to try some current Lauder products and develop a few favorites!  If you haven't tried any, these should be on your list:

1. Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil. 12 Hour Wear, water resistant.  This liner comes in a variety of awesome shades (add a light line of color to your eyes above your normal black/brown for a great new look - rose gold or silver, maybe?), goes on easily and smoothly (you don't have to press down hard), and best of all - it lasts.  $22 each, and I highly recommend the $8 double sharpener Estee makes to keep it in A+ shape.

 

2. Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Foundation. 15-hour wear, stays on through heat, humidity, activity. Won't smudge onto clothes.  Though it IS long wear, it does not feel heavy. Medium coverage. Looks great on just about every person I've tried it on - and it comes in a lot of shades so you can get a perfect match. $37

3. Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-Aging Moisturizer. I was a little skeptical of a "smart" creme - something that adjusts to your skin as needed...but after trying it for a week, I am pretty sold. This improves multiple signs of aging - lines, wrinkles, firmness, dullness, dehydration. It's a thick creme and feels very luxurious going on, and my face is clear, firm, and radiant with use.  Recommended!  $50, $75, $90 (three sizes)

4. Sensuous Nude Perfume. It's what it sounds like - sexy. Intimate, feminine, sultry. Notes of woods, musk, bergamot, sandalwood, amber.  My hubby prefers a more fruity scent, but this one is lovely and sensual if that's what you're into! $58, $65, $90 (three sizes)

 Anyone else have favorites from Estee?

Early Summer 2014 - New Products

Through spring and early summer, I've been trying multiple new products.  A quick review of just a few:

Lush Shampoo Bar

My sister bought me one of these for my birthday, and I was really pleasantly surprised!  Lush's Shampoo Bars are preservative-free and environmentally friendly, with no harmful packaging (mine was a travel size so it came in the tin), and are made to last as long as three bottles of liquid shampoo.  They come in different formulas, but this "Squeaky Green" is made to deep cleanse scalp and hair.  It smells like tea tree oil and rosemary - very nice.  I'd definitely try the other versions of this - they make them for softening, oily hair, volume/shine, de-tangling, dandruff, thinning hair, etc.  $12

 Lancome's Rouge in Love Lipsticks

I don't wear many lipsticks - they generally feel too heavy on my lips. However, these new lip colors from Lancome are definitely cool.  They come in the very in-style bold shades, but they are a VERY lightweight matte finish, so they wear a bit more like a lip stain - and they are 6-hour wear! A light sweep of color gives me a good base shade for long wear, and I can pop a little gloss over it if I want more shine. They've been very popular at Macy's so far. $28.50

 Guerlain Lingerie De Peau - Invisible Skin Fusion Foundation

In my search for a light-weight foundation with a lovely finish, I found this on Sephora's website, with extremely high ratings. It has SPF 20, and is a light to medium coverage formula.  Goes on really smoothly.  The color is not a perfect match for me, but since I like the feel, I've been blending it with just a little foundation in another shade to add a bit of pink undertone.  Goes on well with a blending brush or a blending sponge.  At $61, it runs higher in price than some counter brands, but it's a little nicer, too.

Dirty Works Supreme Cream Body Butter

You all know about my love affair with body butters. I grabbed this one on the cheap at TJ Maxx - the brand is sold mostly overseas, but at $7, it seemed like a good buy.  It's more whipped-feeling than other body butters - more like a light cream.  It smells great (shea butter and sweet almond oil) and leaves the skin silky.  It's not a product I can grab at my local store, but I'd buy it again.  Plus...the retro packaging is a bit fun.

Murad T-Zone Pore Refining Serum

I've had this product for a couple of months and have been putting off blogging about it, because I simply can't tell if it's working or not.  I bought it at the recommendation of an aesthetician who gave me a facial.  I rarely break out, but occasionally get some trapped oil in the larger pores on my cheeks, or near my nose.  Even if they don't turn into actual breakouts, they annoy me. This serum is supposed to tighten pores, dissolve oil, and prevent excess oil production.  It doesn't smell bad, but doesn't smell good like some of my other serums.  I don't use it every night - maybe twice a week?  I will say I seem to have less trapped oil in pores, but I'm not sure if it's due to this serum.  It runs $42, and doesn't seem to hurt anything, but I'm just not certain what I can attribute to its use.

What about you, ladies?  Tried any new products this spring/summer?

Sweet Skin: C. Booth Honey & Almond Body Products

I have been a long-time lover of C. Booth's hand cream, so I am not surprised that I really love their body butter!  At $8, it's totally cheap.  Thick, smooth, creamy...but it absorbs beautifully and leaves the skin feeling terrific.  The smell is light, clean, slightly sweet, and not overpowering at all.  I'm definitely looking forward to trying their other scented body butters.  I want them now!

While the body butter is great, I wasn't so impressed with the Honey Almond Nourishing Body Wash.  Price and scent are both attractive, but the lather is weak and I didn't feel incredibly clean or moisturized after using it.

Finally, the Honey Almond Nourishing Dry Oil Mist was decent. Same low price and pleasant scent.  I love a good dry oil, but I felt like I had to use this one on top of a lotion instead of alone.  That's not a terrible thing, but I seem to only use this for an extra bit of shine instead of real nourishment.

Looking forward to trying some other C. Booth products - always a plus to find a budget-friendly brand that still gives a luxurious experience...