April Favorites :: Skincare

I already posted my April makeup favorites, and now it is time for my April Skincare favorites. I love my current routine, and would have loved to put them all on this list, but I decided to post the ones that I am super obsessed with, rather then the whole routine. If you want to learn my whole routine I have a recent post on that! ONWARD!

April Skincare Favorites

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Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Firming Serum- It normally takes a good 4-6 weeks for me to see a difference when I switch serums/treatments. But this one I saw just after about 2. My skin felt firm, and definitely hydrated.

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Secret Key Snow White Cleansing Foam- I love this as my morning cleanser. I bought it on a whim and I am so glad I did. have such a nice lather, leaves my skin feeling squeaky clean, and I notice that I have a much brighter complexion.

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Tosowoong Platinum Miracle Skin Tightening Pack– I am OBSESSED!!!!!!!!! I reviewed this, I bought it, I use it. I LOVE it! Has to be the best mask I use hands down!

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La Mer Creme de La Mer- This is practically holy grail status. I have used this in the past but at the time I was much younger and I don’t think my skin needed it as much. Fast forward over a decade and I decided to give it another go. Immediate results. I can definitely tell when I don’t use this. My skin hasn’t felt this healthy, or looked better EVER! Now I know it is pricey, good LOOOOOORRRRRDDDD is it pricey. But it has worked so well for me. So I will probably have this as a permanent part of my nighttime skincare routine from now on. A jar does go a long way though. With the current rate I am going through this I probably won’t need to rebuy another at until November or December.

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Tatcha Pure Camellia Cleansing Oil- This is fast becoming my favorite oil cleanser. Leave my face feeling really clean and gets off all my stubborn makeup!

I didn’t include items I have been using over and over again like my Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel, my Innisfree Jeju Pore cleansing Foam, or my SK-II Essence, but those are always in my favorite loves list! ❤

Honorable Mentions

  • La Mer- The Cleansing Gel
  • Sea Tree Moisture Mist
  • sk-II Facial Treatment Lotion
  • Corsx Power Blackhead Liquid

 

Hope you liked my favorites! ❤

New Skincare Routine for Spring/Summer

I think I finally got the perfect routine of skincare down. I haven’t seen my skin improve so fast in such a long time. I haven’t had as much irritation lately. my pores are getting so small (areas were they were prominent are completely gone, just smooth flawless skin) and it feels so happy, healthy and hydrated! So here is an updated routine.This is my current skincare routine (with list of products).

Again,I change or try new things every few months, so I will probably be updating this blog with what I have tried and what works and what didn’t. However I am loving this routine so this may stay the same through summer.

My Skin

I have a very pale complexion, with combination sensitive skin. I also suffered from enlarged pores. I have lived in South Florida my entire life, and would wear sunscreen everyday on my arms and neck but not my face. As such I had some sun damage, and some issue with a nice texture on my skin. At 30 (I’m going to be 32 in a few months) I decided it was time to put on my big girl pants and start really taking care of myself. Diet, exercise, and SKINCARE!

I don’t like under-exxagerating how bad my skin was, because truly whats the point- I had bad skin. Breakouts, pores, flaking. All because I didn’t take proper care of it. It was MY FAULT. So when I owned up to that (rather then blame genetics) I started to see a VAST improvement.

After trying new products, and really refining my regimen  I can say that my skin hasn’t felt this healthy, or looked this good ever! I have been doing this routine for about 3 weeks now.

My Routine

Morning

  • Oil Cleanser – Clean It Zero From Banila Co. This is a great first cleanse in the morning. Sometimes I do not do a double cleanse in the morning, but if I wake up and my face is extra greasy then I do this. I can say I usually do a double cleanse in the morning. at least 5 times a week.
  • Foaming Cleanser –Secret Key Snow White Foaming Cleanser. I love this in the morning,. my complexion looks brighter and my face feels great.
  • Toner –SK-II Facial Treatment Lotion
  • Exfoliate – Cure Natural Aqua Gel (twice a week, I love this) or Freeman’s Charcoal Sugar Scrub (this one is ok, just using it up right now since I don’t like to waste product)
  • Essence – SK-II Facial Treatment Essence- Put a small amount in my hands and gently pat into my face. I let it absorb completely before moving on, BHA Blackhead Power Liquid by Cosrx – I put a fair amount on a cotton pad and dab in on my entire nose and chin. I wait for the SK-II to absorb before I move onto the other.
  • Serums –Tatcha Firming Serum, Then Red Tea Antioxidant Serum from Ole Henriksen
  • Eye Cream –SK-II Eye Cream, this one has been one of the better ones I tried. Although I am still a fan of the ETUDE House Moistfull collagen one.
  • Cream- Perricone MD Cold Plasma, this is a dream product. It smells horrible but it makes my skin look amazing.
  • Moisturizer – Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream by Tatcha.
  • I also apply Nature Republics Aloe Vera Gel all over my body and chest and neck area.

Evening/nighttime

  • Oil Cleanser – Tatcha Camellia Cleansing Oil. This leaves my face clean, and takes off all my makeup and gunk from the day.
  • Foaming Cleanser –USUALLY Jeju Clay Pore Cleanser from Innisfree, which is my holy grail cleanser. But If I wore a very heavy face of makeup I use La Mers The Cleansing Gel, which is amazing, and during hormonal breakouts I use Tatcha’s Rice Enzyme Cleanser. I found a big difference when I catered my cleansers to certain times of the month, and different instances as well.
  • Toner –Benton BHA Aloe Vera Toner
  • Exfoliate – Cure Natural Aqua Gel (twice a week, I love this) or Freeman’s Charcoal Sugar Scrub (this one is ok, just using it up right now since I don’t like to waste product) I used to just exfoliate at night but I was still getting clogged pores. Now that I do it twice I have seen a huge difference in the amount of blackheads I get
  • Mask– Either a foaming mask, clay mask or sheet mask
  • If I am using a sheet mask I skip this step/ If its a wash off, peeling or clay after I rinse it off then I will wipe my face off with the Green Tea cleansing water from Innisfree
  • Tone Again- SK-II Facial Treatment Lotion
  • Essence – SK-II Facial Treatment Essence- Put a small amount in my hands and gently pat into my face.
  • Serums –Tatcha Firming Serum, Then Red Tea Antioxidant Serum from Ole Henriksen
  • Eye Cream –SK-II Eye Cream
  • Cream– Perricone MD Cold Plasma, this is a dream product. It smells horrible but it makes my skin look amazing.
  • Moisturizer – If my skin is irritated at all I will use Tatchas Indigo Soothing Triple recovery Cream. If my skin isn’t irritated I use Creme de La Mer from La Mer
  • I also apply Nature Republics Aloe Vera Gel all over my body and chest and neck area.

 

I CAN SAY THIS. I used to dread cleaning my face a few years ago and now its one of the favorite parts of my day. And I get to do it twice!! I really look forward to it.

Again I have seen the biggest improvement in my skins overall health and appearance since I have switched up my routine. I do know a few of these items are very pricey. So if I had to only recommend one or two to add I would definitely say add the Sk-II essence and lotion, or just the essence. I think essences are one of the most important things in any solid skin care routine.

Haul :: Sephora April VIB Sale

I usually do 2 major orders for makeup and skincare a year, and they coincide with Sephora’s VIB sales (20% in November 15% in April). This year was a little tame for me since I bought a lot of products from other websites and stores (Neiman Marcus, Ulta, Saks, and various websites for my Korean and Japanese skincare and makeup items).

For the pictures I only have most of the items, not all. Because for some reason Sephora decided to ship my items in 3 different shipments (they have NEVER done that before so strange).

Here we go!!!!!

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The Goods

pictured

  • SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion
  • SK-II Facial Essence Treatment- I got the new limited edition bottle, so pretty!
  • Chosungah 22 Dual Lip Tint & Gloss in Cashmere (I did a review earlier)
  • Chosungah 22 Dual Lip Tint & Gloss in Velvet
  • Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist – I bought the travel size previously and FELL IN LOVE so I got a full size too!
  • Tatcha Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream
  • Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35
  • Make Up Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation
  • Touch in Sol Style Neon Super Proof Gel Liner in Burning Sunset
  • Yves Saint Laurent Couture Palette in Color 3

Not pictured

  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Wedge Sloping Powder Brush (Kusabi)
  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Large Teardrop Pointed Powder Brush (Otsubu)
  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Fan Cheek Brush (Ougi)Lancome Miracle CC Cushion – Color Correcting Primer in Purple
  • Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer
  • Sephora Collection Solid Clean: Solid Brush Cleaner

I have a picture of the first 2 brushes, and the YSL palette.

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The boxes are really nice

I have wanted to try Hakuho-do brushes, and I have been intrigued by these for awhile. I am not expecting the works of a real Hakuho-do, but I like that they partnered with Sephora for these brushes, and guess what… they are SYNTHETIC! I had mixed feelings about that but I read and watched some reviews so I figured I would buy a few.

Also it was buy one get one free! They are limited edition so if anyone is interested I would go grab one or two before they are gone!

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Sloping Powder

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Large Teardrop Brush

And this amazing YSL Palette!

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I really love that range of colors. Its really flattering for my brown eyes!

I also tried the Lancome cushion primer in the store, I was super impressed. I am looking forward to using that as well!

Anyway super duper excited for these! ❤

 

Skincare Tips :: Improve your Routine with an Essence

So when I jumpstarted my skincare routine I spent a lot of time looking into what products would be worth adding (in matter of time and money spent) and what might be overkill. I remember learning about essences and thought that it might not be important, so I skipped it for a few months. I got an essence to try as a deluxe sample and decided to give it a whirl, and oh buy was my mind changed! Now it is an integral part of my skincare routine, and I kinda kick myself for thinking it wasn’t important.

What is an Essence?

An essence is a concentrated treatment that is usually liquid or gel (can be in other forms but rarely)  that works to help revitalize complexion, decrease/minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and helps with uneven skin tones. They work really well because they address the issues on a cellular level.

When do I add it into my routine?

I would recommend applying your essence after your toner and before your serums, or moisturizer. I have heard some people add it before their toner, but I use it after my toner.

Should I see a difference right away?

That depends on you and your skin, and what essence you are using. Generally Id say you should see real results within 28 days (when you have newer skin) but for all the essences I have used I have seen results in as little as 3-4 days.

 

I love essences, I am practically obsessed with them. Its one of the skincare products I have no problem dropping huge bucks on. I love and adore my SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. But by no means do you have to spend a fortune on them. I listed below some popular essenses and links to where to buy them. I recommend giving them a shot!

  • Missha Time Revolution Essence – Available at certain beauty websites, and Amazon!
  • SK-II Facial Treatment EssenceSephora
  • Hera Cell EssenceKoreaDepart.com
  • Innisfree Soybean Energy EssenceAmazon

There are so many other essences out there, give them a shot! If you have a favorite, comment below. I’d love to check out different ones! ❤

 

My Current Skincare Routine

This is my current Skincare routine (with list of products) I change or try new things every few months, so I will probably be updating this blog with what I have tried and what works and what didn’t.

My Skin

I have a very pale complexion, with combination sensitive skin. I also suffered from enlarged pores. I have lived in South Florida my entire life, and would wear sunscreen everyday on my arms and neck but not my face. As such I had some sun damage, and some issue with a nice texture on my skin. At 30 (I’m going to be 32 in a few months) I decided it was time to put on my big girl pants and start really taking care of myself. Diet, exercise, and SKINCARE!

After almost 2 years my skin looks a bazillion times better. My pores are considerably smaller and cleaner. My complexion is more even, my creases are diminishing and the smoothness of my skin is vast improved. Its very soft now, which is so nice.

I don’t like under-exagerating how bad my skin was, because truly whats the point- I had bad skin. Breakouts, pores, flaking. All because I didn’t take proper care of it. It was MY FAULT. So when I owned up to that (rather then blame genetics) I started to see a VAST improvement.

My Routine

 

  1. Oil Cleanser – Clean It Zero From Banila Co. After removing makeup from my face if there is any there I put a small amount on my face and massage for 20-30 seconds then gently rinse off.
  2. Foaming Cleanser –Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam from Innisfree. I lather this on and then very gently use a pore brush to lather the last bit.
  3. Toner –Aloe BHA Skin Toner by Benton. I use a cotton swab and gently swipe across my face, I like this one because it is very soothing.
  4. Exfoliate –  Cure Natural Aqua Gel (twice a week, I love this) or Freeman’s Charcoal Sugar Scrub (this one is ok, just using it up right now since I don’t like to waste product)
  5. Essence – SK-II Facial Treatment Essence- Put a small amount in my hands and gently pat into my face. I let it absorb completely before moving on
  6. Essence –BHA Blackhead Power Liquid by Cosrx – I put a fair amount on a cotton pad and dab in on my entire nose and chin.
  7. Mask -(I only do this twice a week. Either a sheet mask, Lindsay makes an AMAZING Pull away charcoal mask, or the Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask by Elizavecca)
  8. Brightening Oil – Wild Rose Vitamin C Active Brightening Oil by Korres – Alittle goes a long way. I just take the dropper and put 3 drops in my hands and gently apply to face and neck
  9. Serums –ULTIMUNE Power Infusing Concentratefrom Shiseido (I use this first) Then Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster by Ole Henrikson, For the Ole Henriksen serum I do like the results of it, however it makes my face EXTREMELY red right after application and it stays red for 15 minutes, so I don’t think I will be rebuying. I am looking for another serum that has vitamin C thats a bit gentler. I think Etude House or Innisfree has one.
  10. Eye Cream –Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream by Etude house – I gently pat this under my eye and gently apply it to my lids
  11. Moisturizer –Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ from Clinique. Gently put a small amount on my face and neck
  12. OK if it is the morning I will use a BB cream + primer and do make up and skip this last step
  13. Night Cream – Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream by Tatcha. Its a Japanese brand, and they have amazing products, however they get a bit pricey. I might look for something else to see if it compares, if not I will get this again. I do adore this.
  14. I also apply Nature Republics Aloe Vera Gel all over my body and chest and neck area.

It took me several months to really get into this routine. I used to just wash-tone-moisturize at night so going from that to this twice a day  was something I had to do slowly. I recommend adding in 1-2 steps every 2-3 weeks. First I would add essence and eye cream, then night creams, and then serums. This will let you get used to the routine, and will let you see how each product improves your skin. I realized that a good essence and night cream are what really worked for me. Rather then get some super expensive serums. But for other people may be the other way around.

I CAN SAY THIS. I used to dread cleaning my face a few years ago and now its one of the favorite parts of my day. And I get to do it twice!! I really look forward to it.

My absolute FAVORITES from this list are Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam,Aloe BHA Skin Toner,Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream and Nature Republics Aloe Vera Gel, and the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence.

As for products I hated my old moisturizer I just changed. I used to use Oil of Olay anti Aging, but I switched to the one with an additional spf 30. Sounds good right? WRONG. It broke out my entire face after only one application UGH so I switched to another moisturizer and stopped using that one for now. The Clinique Moisturizer isn;t the best as far as moisturizers (for my skin) go. But it is much better then the Oil of Olay stuff I was using. I NEVER throw away products. I usually suck it up and use them unless I get a super bad reaction. So thats what I had to do with the Oil of Olay One. Also Truth Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster give me great results but right after application it makes my face EXTREMELY RED, and little tender. So I still use it for the results but I will not be rebuying it. So sad 😦

Also although I have nothing bad to say about BHA Blackhead Power Liquid, I don’t see much of a change or results. my pores are alittle better. I may or may not rebuy this! WE will see what happens after I use the entire bottle.

Thank you all for reading, comment below if you have any questions!