This weekend has left me with what we in the industry refer to as writer’s block.
I have no idea what I mean when I say “industry”. Blog industry? Mom industry? The National Federation of Backhouse Painters Industry? The Women with Severe PMS Industry? People Who Procrastinate and Watch the Grammys Industry?
Whatever. I am struggling with the words.
So I’m pulling out a fascinating topic. Beauty products. Specifically the top ten beauty products that are currently my can’t-live-without items. This list rotates from time to time because I believe a true beauty regimen is like a shark; you have to keep moving or you will die.
Or at least have deep wrinkles and age spots.
And I don’t really know if that’s true about the sharks but I heard it one time and it made a lasting impression.
1. Oil of Olay Microdermabrasion & Peel System
I am a huge believer in microdermabrasion. It has rescued me from a vast wasteland of sun damage in the form of large freckles, otherwise known as age spots. I’ve tried other brands, but I think this one is the best.
Of course maybe it’s just because it makes my whole face heat up which gives the illusion of effectiveness.
2. Hummingbird Farms Lavender Lotion
If you ignore everything else on this list, do not ignore this. I have really dry skin and, therefore, a lotion obsession. Actually, it’s more of a passion.
After discovering this miracle in a bottle two years ago, I cannot live without it. It is literally the only thing that keeps my hands from cracking and peeling during the winter and it smells much like I imagine heaven will smell.
I am totally addicted. All other lotion is dead to me.
3. Oil of Olay Regenerist Night Cream
I decided to try this after I saw it in a magazine article that compared it to La Mer. And as much as I’d love to try La Mer, I believe that flawless skin would be pointless if I couldn’t afford to pay the light bill because no one could see me.
Anyway, this moisturizer feels so good when I put it on and, while I don’t know if I look like I’ve had a mini-face lift each morning, it has definitely diminished the size of the wrinkles in my forehead that used to greet me in the mirror at the beginning of each new day.
4. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer
This is the greatest invention ever for busy women everywhere. It’s sheer coverage, spf 20, and moisturizer with retinol all in one convenient package.
It’s genius. Sheer genius.
Neutrogena? Call me if you’d like to use that as your marketing slogan. Or maybe you already use it. Whatever.
5. Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara
I’ve talked about this before and it is a big deal that I am still committed to it after a year. Mascara monogamy has never been my strong suit.
It goes on great, lasts all day, and it’s cheap.
Let’s just say wintertime + my face = pasty white.
I will give you a small piece of advice. Don’t overdo the bronzer or you will have what I refer to as “white neck syndrome” and in photographs you could look like a big, tan, floating head hovering above a body.
Hypothetically speaking.
7. Aussie Hi-Hold Hi-Shine Hairspray
I bought this hairspray at Target a while back because I saw the purple Aussie bottle and became completely nostalgic for all the good times I had with my Aussie Sprunch Spray from 1986-1990.
Also, it was only $2.99.
As it turns out, I really like it. It has a decent amount of hold, even in humidity, and makes my hair look a little shinier than usual.
Plus, I am a total sucker for that grape smell. Hello 1987, I have missed you.
Last spring, I asked y’all for your best beauty secrets and a few different people mentioned this. Needless to say, I was completely intrigued and had to try it immediately.
I went to the drugstore and armed myself with some Stridex pads just in case things went awry and I found myself in some serious need of breakout medication.
But y’all, it totally works. I use the oil-cleansing method about 2-3 times a week and it makes my face feel so good. I highly recommend it.
Okay, so you shouldn’t be surprised that I’m ending the list at eight. I would so love to add two more things to make it an even ten, but my mind has never been more blank.
Which probably means I should add some Omega 3 Fish Oil-type thing to my beauty regimen because my brain function might need more help than my eyelashes.
I’d love to hear about any great beauty finds that you’ve recently discovered because knowledge is power and so is a good moisturizer.
Dove Summer glow…..gives that ‘sun kissed’ look, goes on evenly & smells ok too!!
Nana May’s magic hand scrub (from QLD, Australia) the BEST for ultra smooth hands, that feel so soft. ( I live in Vic, Australia & have to ship the stuff down – but it’s worth it!)
A good eye cream, not too pricey, is a good investment. I use Trilogy (brand from New Zealand)
it is so funny that you asked! i devoted one whole post to my eye lash curler complete with instructions on how to use it. it is my must have (along with the mascara obviously) i am looking for a good face wash regimen, if you have any tips, i would so love it, i never really had acne as a teen, but i woke up on my 26th birthdya and my gift to myself? acne. i have been unable to figure out why, and unable to get it to go. somethings have diminished the problem, but nothing has taken it away. sorry for your writers, block, hope it goes away because i LOVE your blog, maybe the back house has put a curse on you, you won’t be abel to finish anythign until you finish it…
OK, so I laughed out loud at the Aussie Scrunch reference…..gotta love those 80s!
You should see my wedding photos…Holy AquaNet City, Batman! (guys as well as girls)
thanks for the a great Monday morning laugh.
xox
*~Michelle~*
I’ve started using diluted apple cider vinegar instead of conditioner on my (brown) hair. My hair is softer, shinier and cheaper! And you don’t have to rinse it out — unless someone is going to “smell” you before your hair is dry! The smell is gone when the hair is dry.
I am totally up for trying the Lavender Lotion. This super dry West Texas weather (and wind) wreaks unmentionable havock on my already dry skin and I’ve spent more than enough of my life trying to find GOOD lotion! Thanks for the tips!
There’s a $5.00 off coupon on the Oil of Olay website right now for #3. I’m going to try it!
I use Mario Badescu skin care products – they are natural and very affordable and work well on my sensitive skin.
Okay, so when I read “castor oil”, I can only think of a very different use. Will you please explain the olive oil/castor oil use. Thanks!
PreperationH cream (I actually buy the Equate version) is the best eye cream you can buy. I have extremely dry skin especially around my eyes and this is the only thing that will still keep them moisturized until I wake up in the morning. And it is great for under eye puffiness.
Loreal HIP eyeshadows…They are MAC knockoffs and really are gorgeous shadows if you use your brushes carefully.. My fave duo is the blackish/gold combo. And yes, I’m too lazy to go to my bag for the correct names.
I’m willing to try the oil cleansing method, if for no other reason than this portion of the instructions from their website:
“As you’re massaging, let your mind drift off to something calming and breathe deeply. Take this time to relax and release some of the stress that your body is harboring. Sit down, breathe deeply, and take your time.”
THAT’S a beauty regime I’m sorely lacking.
Neutrogena All-In-One Facial Cleansing Wipes – LOVE ‘em. Especially, when I don’t feel like taking my make-up off, I can just wipe away as I’m walking to bed!
So do you mix the olive oil and castor oils- and what ratio, I am intriged!!Do you leave it on for awhile??? please elablorate:)
YAAAY! I hope that this list starts a trend that continues b/c I LOVE LOVE LOVE beauty products. I have a severe obsession with them, actually, and could spend a million bucks in Ulta. Don’t even get me started on my reaction to what happens at a department store or favorite spa place. I am going to order the Hummingbird Lotion, but I wanted to add some of my alltime favorite products as well:
1. Proactive – This stuff really works. I have not used it for a while (just wanted to see if I could NOT use it) and my skin is sad.
2. Eminence Rosehip Moisturizer was recommended to me by my facialist person several years ago. It is pricey at $50 for a small bottle, but it lasts for months, smells incredible, and makes your face so very soft.
3. PurMinerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup and PurMinerals Mineral Glow – I am a huge fan of the mineral makeup craze. If you buy the started kit from Ulta, you also receive the special brush to apply the makeup, which of course makes all the difference in the world.
4. Nars Blush in Orgasm – Yes, the name is somewhat inappropriate, but the blush is absolutely beautiful and can be worn summer or winter.
I have always had problem skin–oily, tends to break out, small bumps underneath the surface of my skin. You name it, I’ve got it. But this year a friend told me about a product called Obaji (you have to get it from a dermotologist) that has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. I actually love my skin now. And I actually can go without makeup sometimes, which is something I’d never have done before. It’s expensive, but if you have problem skin it is totally worth the cost.
Sadly I don’t have anything great to offer. This makes me wonder if I’m really not as cute as I think I am and had better step it up!
http://www.lazymoms.com
This is awesome. I need help.
I have been using the olive oil/castor oil mix since you wrote about it in the spring. Absolutely, love it! And I tend to have oily skin. This has cleansed and moisturized (w/o oiliness) my skin and is so inexpensive. I am gonna try the mascara. I have been a ‘great lash’ fan forever, but the last two tubes have been clumpy. Thanks for all the tips!
I have used Mary Kay products for several years….skin care and make up. I would never go back to anything else! I love it!
The biggest problem I have with the Aussie line is the grape smell. Reminds me of dimetapp and makes me ill.
Give me a cloud of ozone killing, lung coating aqua net in the locker room and we’ll talk memories of 1987!
1.) Olay Total Effects Cleanser
2.) Olay Definity Instense Hydration Cream
3.) Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
4.) Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
5.) Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer
I love Bliss products. My favorite product right now is their lemon+sage body scrub. This stuff smells sooo good and the scrub is just the right blend. The Bliss catalog is funny to read too.
Take care,
Julie
Thank you so much for this, my 38 year old face thanks you too! Oil of Olay – here I come!
Here’s a little known tip- all the makeup and “stuff” that says spf (?) has to be reapplied every 2 hours. If it is a chemical sunblock- as they are- it will wear off. But a barrier block will last. Use a zinc product under your makeup and you are set for the day. This is from my dermatologist.
I am totally gonna try that oil cleansing thing!
I can’t live without Aquafore. It’s the best thing I have found for my lips. It leaves them soft, well conditioned, a bit of shine but not like a gloss. I love it!
http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=13123&catid=10400
Will have to give these a try…oh, how I could use some HELP.
Tip: I have been addicted to for 20+ years is Rainbath by Neutrogena. Heard about it on the radio one day in Paul Harvey’s tips, and it has been a mainstay in my life ever since:) Also have my sister, step-daughter and DIL addicted:) Wonderful clean smell bath gel. A GREAT product!
Have a wonderfully blessed Monday,
Kaye
Ok first, it shocked the daylights out of me to see my name up already in the comments, and I had a moment of confusion thinking “How could I have responded when I hadn’t read this yet?” Then I saw the age and knew that nope – not me. I’m much, um, I mean, alittle bit older. So hi Dena! I’ve only met one other “us” before.
Ok, beauty regimen…I’m enduring painful chemical peels right now due to the stupidity of my youth, therefore my main can’t do without right now sunscreen. Even during the winter! I am very fair skinned and have been advised by my dermotologist to wear 30spf during the winter and 75 or higher during the summer. Didn’t even know they made it that high! Protect your skin or you’ll pay later ladies. I have pictures posted if you want proof that I’m not kidding.
Okay, I am not going to try and lure you away from your Lilac paradise, but I have been a true believer of Bath and Bodyworks Orange/Ginger collection from their aromatics, since my trip to San Antonio Siesta Fiesta. They had given little bottles at the hotel, I collected all the extras and brought them home to my two littles as their gifts..sneaky. They loved it too! Oh, they got those cheezey pink cowgirl hats with the tiara too. But back to the lotion. It is so lovely. The scent makes me breathe deeply and smile. Okay, enough. Thanks for the list.
I’m a big fan of Prescriptives. I use their “All Clean” cleanser (green gel) and their “Virtual Matte” foundation. It covers well and is really light. All their stuff is great because it’s natural and gentle on your skin. I also love the NARS blush (mentioned above), Mary Kay mascara, and C.O. Bigelow “Vitamin Mentha” tinted lip balm from Bath & Body Works.
You really should check out the Clarisonic face brush! It’s made by the same guy who invented the Sonicare toothbrush, that I can’t live without. I bought a pink one but I need to get a brush for sensitive skin. Other than that, I love it! And once you’ve scrubbed your skin, products penetrate deeper (thank God I called on derms, I learned something) so you don’t need to use as much and they work better.
As for anti-aging creams, I swear by Skinceuticals Retinol .5 Although it’s strong, be warned. It works.
La Roche-Posay is THE BEST sunscreen. I am extremely fair and I have never once gotten a sunburn while wearing this. (This is a mini-miracle.) I only wear it when I know I’m going to be outside a lot because it is a bit heavy. I wear a lighter sunscreen under my makeup most days. It’s expensive, so I order it off ebay.
http://www.laroche-posay.com/interhtml/protection-solaire.htm
Still using Aussie Scrunch spray.
I use all Mary Kay products….because I signed up to be a MK consultant so I could get great products for cheaper than I could get anything good at Stuffmart.
I’m 39, and people tell me I look 32. That could be because I have much subcutaneous layers to fill in those wrinkled spots.
I love the Aussie Instant Freeze hairspray! I need strong stuff to make my straight hair behave.
Also, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize . . .
i use a great neutrogena moisturizer for the dry skin i seem to get in conjunction with the winter months. you wouldn’t think an alabama winter could do so much harm to a face, but after finally (HOPEFULLY!) growing out of my teenage oily years, i have accepted my fate of dry skin and found something that works pretty well. they have moisturizer types for all skin types, too.
Thanks for the list! How often do you use the microdermabrasion?
I clean with Deep Cleaning Oil by DHC from Japan (www.dhccare.com); it is wonderful! Their Olive Virgin Oil is great for dry skin, and I would probably curl up and die without their Velvet Skin Coat. Mabelline Great Lash mascara is a forever favorite; always has worked better than any of the expensive stuff for me. That’s all I know.. and I may have to try out some of your great finds! We’re all in this together (though as women, it sometimes seems like we’re more “dog eat dog”..)
Oh the days of the Aussie Spruch Spray. It served its purpose well and my bangs were never the same.
Can NOT live without my BareMinerals. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them. Won’t leave home without it on my aging face. Going to definetly try the Oil of Olay system!
Also, for my hair, just go this from my stylist…something called Cationic Hydration Interlink (whatever that means) CHI for short…Silk Infusion. All I know is this, my long hair is insanely soft and shiny. You only use it once/week. Silk in a bottle.
My favorite beauty supplies?
1 – vaseline. I use it around my eyes every night at bedtime.
2 – Clinique extremely gentle makeup remover
3 – Tresemme hairspray. It has great hold.
4 – Cover Girl mascara. I’ll have to try the volume blast one but I use the regular and I agree it’s cheap which makes it great! Also, I have very sensitive eyes and this doesn’t seem to bother them.
5 – Sally Hansen Lip Plumper (Thanks Mama Beth!)
6 – My Curling Iron.
The Members Mark baby wipes that you can buy in bulk from Sam’s Club are wonderful for removing make-up. They are alcohol-free so they don’t dry-out my face.
Ever heard of “Kiss Me” mascara by Blinc? It’s fantastic! You roll it on, it doesn’t shed, flake, run, whatever, until you get warm water and WASH it off! Yup, you can even “mist up” in it and it holds. Pricey but worth it.
YuBe also just came out with a body lotion. Anyone who loves YuBe cream will run to get this.
I too love the olive oil/castor oil mix – and I have oily akin! I use it at night to remove make-up by (first removing aforementioned Blinc mascara by hand) rubbing a quarter sized “blob” onto DAMP skin and massaging thoroughly. Then I use a Mustela baby facial wipe and remove it all well. Follow with a very warm rung out washcloth and my 51 year old skin is ready for the evening moisturizing. The ingredient that moistens the Mustela wipes (Mustela PhysioBebe) is the best thing for makeup remover – hey, it’s for BABIES so is especially gentle but thorough!). Get a pump bottle of that stuff – you can even use it as a toner in a pinch! And if you have a baby (I have THREE grands that are toddlers), you can kill two birds with one product (?) – let PETA have a field day with THAT one!
And, being the mature woman with even more mature skin that I am, I am NOT without Prevage – first thing on my skin after toner both am and pm. Followed by Obagi products – my skin looks better than it did when I was 16 – honestly! Pricey stuff so I find it online and on eBay (both Prevage and Obagi) and usually save 25-60% off retail)
Last but not least, I’ve discovered jane iredale cosmetics – love their mineral LIQUID foundation followed by pressed mineral powder – ooo, la, la. Come to me BABY!
Hair-wise, nothing beats the Fredrick Fekai (sp?) cider clarifying shampoo. I cut it half and half with water and use it every single shampoo (my hair is still a bit oily) and it really base cleanses it.
Can you tell I embrace my “regiment”? It’s either than or prune city, here I come…
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
I think talking about beauty products is a nice way to get around writer’s block. I’m a makeup artist/wardrobe stylist who works in TV and print and when I find a product that works I will stick with it. I always like to hear what other people use and why they like it. Here’s a few of my absolute must-have products, personally and professionally. BTW- they’ve been mentioned already by others.
Obagi skin care system- it has an ugly adjustment phase, but if you can stick it out the results are absolutely worth it.
Bare Minerals Mineral Veil- a beautiful light-weight powder that leaves a subtle glow that’s very kind to skin with wrinkles.
Nars Blush in Orgasm- this color is beautiful on almost everyone, unless you’re dark skinned. I love to layer it under other blush colors.
MAC Prep + Prime for eyes- a great eye primer that makes eyeshadow last a long time and stay crease-free.
Maybelline the Colossal Volum’ Express- I almost named my daughter Maybelline. Not really, but I do love this mascara. It leaves big fat lashes without a lot of effort.
Thanks for sharing your favs. And good luck with that backhouse!
I love your list and I am going to give some of these products a try! One of my favorites is my Victoria’s Secret Bronzer.
It has lasted forever and does not take much to get a little bit of glow on your face. I use it right now when I desperately want a tan, it doesn’t make me look so washed out. But in the summer when I do have some sun on my face, I can leave the foundation or powder off and just use this and you’ll have the perfect sun-kissed glow on your face. It’s $18 which I think is great, seeing as how long it has lasted. I’ll go get it in a minute and give the specific name.
Ok. This may sound strange – but about 5 years ago I went to my dermatologist and he noticed my legs were dry. At that time I had been putting baby oil on my legs right after a shower (while the legs were still damp – before you dry them with a towel). He said the baby oil actually pulls our natural oils out and not to use that. He then advised my to use Vaseline. He said to rub it on right after you turn the shower off (while you are still dripping and have not dried yourself). Since you are still wet the Vaseline does not have the oily, greasy feel. After you rub it on – you just dry like normal and basically, wipe it right back off. It doesn’t leave anything on the towel if you do it while you are still wet. Anyways, I have done this now for five years and have not had a dry leg since. I also use it on my feet and elbows – it works amazingly!
I agree about the Cover Girl Last Blast but it is a little spidery on my lower lashes. I don’t need to draw any attention to the bags under my eyes. It looks like a spider on Miss Muffet’s Tuffet some days.
I am now addicted to Maybelline Stiletto for the lower lashes only – amazing brush that lets you get in there w/o making a mess (or a giant spider).
Hey Big Mama!! Since I am the product of a hair dresser and used to be one myself, I an always changing my regiments for the next best thing.
1. Halo hair care, that stuff is the bomb, its only sold at salons and is kinda pricey but I only use the best on my locks.
2. ULTA Mineral makeup, its so sheer and light, not cakey
3. St. Ives Olive Oil face wash
4. Clinique moisturizer
5. OPI nail polish
6. Sara’s Soaps n’ Such ( my church friend makes her own lotions and what nots) I love the lavender goats milk lotion
Have a fantabulous day!!!
~Molly P
I found your blog a while back and LOVE it!!
I am sooo going to be trying the oil face cleansing. I am 27 and STILL have acne, I have tried sooooo many products and they just don’t work!
I love my Mary Kay mineral powder that stuff is awesome.
Do you have any tips for dry hair? I dye my hair and use a straight iron (my Chi, I could not live without!!) and the bottom always looks dried out! Help please!!!
OK I found the Aussie 3 minute Miracle for my hair. It is 3.29 a bottle and it works!! Also, I am a fan of mixing Dept store makeup with grocery store. Very cost effective.
Cetaphil face wash. I also have dry skin and tried it on recommendation from a magazine and it totally works. I blogged about it here if you’re interested:
http://headlessfamily5.blogspot.com/2008/09/word-of-mouth-monday-face-wash.html
Amen to Cover Girl Lash Blast! I’m a loyal fan.
I love Lancome Dual Pressed Powder. Soooo smooth and silky and perfect for humid days when foundation just won’t do.
I’m 38 with the oilest skin this side of the Mississippi. I’m talkin, so much grease production you could fry chicken in it if you wanted to. Not that you would. Eeeewwwe. The ONLY powder that’s ever worked for me all day long (since 1986!) is Cornsilk’s natural matte shine control. It’s hard to find, and when I do find it, I buy it in bulk. I’m talking backdoor pickup at CVS people.
Other than that one, my two newer must haves are:
Proactiv’s Clear Zone body lotion — sleep with it on my face at night and love love love it! Moisturizing at night really does help keep down the oil during the day. After all those years of using SeaBreeze on my face cause my Grandmama told me to… who knew?
and Georigio Armani’s lip liner and eye liner. Saw it on someone in an ad (okay, it was Angelina Jolie, and her natural beauty aside, her eye and lip color was AMAZING in the picture) and decided to try it and have been hooked ever since. It is so worth it.
Because I’m worth it. (Isn’t that what L’oreal tells me?!)
Your Aussie recommendation totally took me back to my college days in FL where I used the purple aussie spray pump to scrunch my spiral permed curls… and the TX girls taught me that in heavy humidity, nothing was better for hold than your cheap can of RAVE hairspray… Your hair will never move again, and as a bonus, feels like hay. ~Crunchy hay. But my hair stayed right where I put it. (It was shellacked.)
I’m into year 3 of complete and total obsession with Kiehl’s lip balm #1. It’s got sunscreen and is the only thing I’ve found that can combat the equatorial sun.
1. to control friz and add shine: Bioloage color care shine spray. Smells wonderful
2. eyelash curler: Shu Uemura You’ll NEVER have to replace the pads.
3. Mascara: Fiberwig paint on false eyelashes!
4 acne: Proactiv hands down
5 blush: Mac color: cubic
6. lipGLOSS: CO Bigelow you get it at Bath and Body Works, super cheap and super shiny and minty
Those are my must haves.
What about frangrances?
Ooh, a subject dear to my heart, especially as 35 is now in my rear-view mirror! My favorite beauty products:
Bobbi Brown luminous moisturizing foundation
Bobbi Brown pot rouge in Blushed Rose (the perfect neutral rose blush that I think would look great on anyone)
DDF 10% glycolic tonic (fantastic for breakouts and dry skin)
Ole Henriksen Three Little Wonders skincare kit (a great brand I’ve just recently discovered)
Nars lipstick in Masai (again, one of those perfect, universally flattering shades)
Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara (I’ve tried almost every mascara from drugstore to Dior, and I still like this one best)
Look at this treasure trove of beauty products!! I have had horrible, horrible skin my whole life. Giant pores. I’m totally going to try the oil cleansing method, because I have not tried anything yet that works.
I found your blog after watching your scarf demo. Love your accent =) and your blog. A great place to find info on skin-care/beauty products is in a book by Paula Begoun, “Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me” 7th Edition, published in 2008. When ever I need to I just check it out from the library!
As always great information to have! Love the smell of Aussie too.
You are gonna love this….I’m telling you, you will love it.
Cover Girl has a new lip gloss out called “wetslicks AmazeMint”. They teamed up with Crest, or maybe Crest owns CoverGirl…who knows, who cares! You will LOVE it. They put some Crest Peppermint oil in the lip glass and when you put it on it tingles your lips. Did I mention that you’ll love it? You’ll find yourself re-applying much more than you need to…just for the tingle.
They are in a 2 pack at Walmart right now for a promotional price of $5.00. Cheap-o!
Unfortunately I was just at Walmart….BEFORE I read your list. I’ll have to go back. That’s ok though…I forgot toilet paper anyway.
L’Oreal Wrinkle Decrease Collagen Filler. The best part—Wal-Mart has a knock-off brand. I know I said the “W” word but seriously, you have to try this!
Love this stuff. I use it on my forehead and neck but you can use it all over. Miss a day and you can tell though.
Did not have much luck with the regenerist night cream you mentioned.
I am really intrigued by the oil cleansing routine. Anything that keeps reassuring me that I will be calm, has to be greatness. I think the last time I was calm was some time in 1989.
I am constantly trying new things. Right now I love:
-Sexy Hair Soy Milk Shampoo and Conditioner(they have one that smells like chocolate too)
-Softsoap Body Butter Coconut Scrub (smells like a beach and exfoliates)
-Cover Girl Tru Blend
-Olay Complete Sensitive skin moisturizer
-Olay Regenerist everything
-Purpose liquid face wash (soap free and no breakouts since I have started it 2 years ago)
-Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush lipgloss in Cherry Bomb
-B&B Works Cream body lotion in Dancing Waters (smells like spring and if you put it on your arms and neck, you need no perfume)
-Clinique Happy perfumes (Happy Heart, Happy to Be, it is all wonderful to me)
-Sonia Kashuk brushes for powder, eyes and blush (worth it)
Nars Orgasm blush (love it)
I too am a Mary Kay girl. Don’t sell it. Just buy and use it. Had terrible, awful skin ….not just acne but also sensitive….for all my adult life until I found Mary Kay skin products. I use the TimeWise cleanser and moisturizer and the oil-free foundation and blush. I have not been able to use any kind of eye makeup in several years. Allergies I guess. Any suggestions? I miss my mascara and shadow! As I have gotten older my eyebrows have gotten thinner and lighter. I used to be able to fill them in with a charcoal grey eyebrow pencil until I had to get bi-focals and there’s NO WAY I can see to do it now! So I have found Neutrogena Clean Lash Tint that I use on my brows like mascara. Works great for me. Shapes and colors them at the same time. And, Aussie….I do love my Aussie Mega hair spray! And have for many, many years now!
Loved reading your post today about your own beauty treatments. Reminds me of our Esther study. Right?
God bless,
Marilyn
Shampoo–Pureology! I use both the regular priced stuff ($26 a bottle Anti-fade complex) and the expensive ($52 a bottle Luxury Color Care) but each one lasts me a year, so how expensive is it compared to drugstore stuff? It makes my hair *so* soft and shiny! I look forward to washing my hair every day because of this stuff. Totally in love with it. Also, my hair isn’t colored, I just chose it originally because I liked the smell. Still do. Mmm!
Philosophy face wash (called Purity). It was $25 and I cringed over buying it, but it’s been almost a year and a half and I still have another 6 months worth. Makes my skin feel absolutely wonderful. I love it every. single. day. and I’ve been using it for several years now.
I’m looking forward to finding makeup favorites from this list since I don’t have any of those.
Thanks for the list!
I love-love-LOVE the Regenerist night cream. My favorite part is that it smells so good, I actually want to put it on. Well, that and because it’s way cheaper than Botox.
I’ve been using mineral makeup for about a year now and love it. I was very skeptical to try it, but am so happy I did.
Our Rock Minerals has been in business for a couple of years. I’ve ordered in person (a home party) and I order online. I rec’d my order within 5 days.
( http://www.ourrockminerals.com/home.html )
I’ve been very pleased with the product and get compliments frequently.
Check out the webiste…it’s so VERY AFFORDABLE with so many color options!
1. Couldn’t live without my Carmex lip balm. My lips chap easily, so I put it on every night before going to bed. And my lips are always kissably soft.
2. I have a cleanser that I use as an eye-makeup remover, and it’s a wonder. I think it’s Caudalie.
3. My skin is super-sensitive and will break out when in contact with anything too harsh or with a fragrance. The Aveda All-Sensitive skin cleanser is the only cleanser that I’ve found that doesn’t break me out.
4. Chi flat-iron. Enough said.
A couple of years ago, I started using Bare Minerals foundation and Philosophy skin care. They have really made a difference in my complexion. I have rosacea and need to be careful about what I use and how I use it. Every once in a while I stray and try something different, but always come back to these. They are a bit spendy, but I consider them medicinal : ) Might try the olive and castor oil thing, and maybe even the Preparation H. Hey, could save enough money to buy me a Slanket.
OK I know that I am low on the comment list, but I couldn’t help commenting on the Aussie spray…thanks I had a moment of reflection about my high school/early college days and I am sure someone somewhere was playing Rick Astley’s Never Gonna Give You Up…love the memories.
Amy
http://www.allthingsaro.blogspot.com
LOVE the Lash Blast!! I have never found a mascara that I loved, until this one. So glad you gave it a shout out!
I am so happy you did this topic. I have been having massive breakouts the past year or two and have ended up with horrible scars all over my face. I love my Bare Minerals makeup, but it’s just not enough to cover what I need to. And while you didn’t so much give any makeup tips, I am thrilled to know how to rid myself of these darn wrinkles! Aging kind sucks.
I have had troubled skin all of my life until I discovered Arbonne! I use all of the Anti-Aging line as it is great for all skin types. They also just came out with a budget-friendly line called FC5, where they take the vitamin rich cells out of 5 fruits and vegetables and put them in the products to be applied to your skin. (http://www.arbonnefc5.com)
I do sell the products because I am such a believer in their pure, safe and beneficial philosophy. It also allows me to stay at home with my 2 1/2 year old! If you’d like a free sample of the anti-aging line, head over to my blog, leave a comment under my most recent post and I will send one to you!
I did the worst thing ever — I accepted a sample of Arbonne’s anti-aging line from a friend who had recently become a distributor.
Yep, now I own the whole thing.
Dang, it’s expensive. But dang, I look years younger than I did. One of my guy friends said the other day, “Wow Lisa, you’re the only woman I know who looks younger ever year! How do you do it?” Ummm, not tellin’.
I just looked up and saw Andrea’s post. The samples are great, but it’s crack for your face. I’m not kidding. Yes, I’m now a distributor too, but only for my own discount. *evil grin*
Thanks for all the tips! I am a product junkie… I have what seems like every facial product ever made by every company in existence. My problem is getting motivated and finding the time to use them! Thanks to you, I’m heading to wash my face and slather on the creams right now!
I am a Mary Kay girl almost all the way. For as long as I can remember I have used MK foundations. After I married I actually started selling it and hence began using the entire line of cleansing and glamour products. Now 14 years later I am still using the skin care products and just changed foundation a couple years back because they changed to a formula that I just could not like. I know use LOreal True Match foundation and love it.
As for hair I use two Aussie products that I am completely in love with. They are both the Awesome Volume line. I use the shampoo and the spray gel. Love the spray gel. It gives a wonderful hold to be so light on your hair. BUT I am a faithful user of White Rain hairspray. I have used several kinds over the years and several were more expensive (which most are) but always come back to White Rain….love it.
While you’re using that oil for the face cleanser- use it for your brushes too! Every other week I get all my brushes and take a folded up paper towel with some oil on it and wipe the brushes on it….and it will make you sick what comes off of it….just be happy you’re cleaning them because its nasty- but works soooo well!
Heeeyyy BM!
I’m a product junkie.
I blogged about my beauty product picks recently here.
http://deerunschoolhouse.blogspot.com/2009/01/my-beauty-product-picks.html
Something I need to add to that list is Benefit’s Plum mascara. It’s a very deep purple (but not in a creepy oh my goodness she’s wearing purple mascara way). You can’t really tell it’s purple, but it really makes green eyes pop. Love it.
Bliss The Youth as We Know It
It’s ‘amazing’ in a jar.
And it has a cute name, too.
I just wanted to know if the PMS Industry was recruiting because I would love to join!
I just wanted to know if the PMS Industry was recruiting because I would love to join!
I am so with you on the Lash Blast, I have always used Lancome Definicils and I was short on cash, and mascara, and opted for the CG Lash Blast, and have not looked back!! Thanks for the other tips..I am gonna check them out…and a few of the ones some others have left here in the comments!
Good ol’ fashion soap and water…that’s all my regimen consists of. I wear as little make up as possible and if I’m not going out or if I don’t care who I’m with …. well then I don’t wear any! I really don’t like make up … so it’s easy for me.
I do miss the Aqua Net days though…good times…
BigMama and other blogging ladies,
Has anyone found a great acne cleansing/treatment regimine? I am 25 years old and still have bad acne at times. I’ve been looking and looking at the cleanser aisles but can’t find something that seems like it would work. I’d love any tips!
-Jessica
I’m new to your blog – been reading it for about a month – love it! Love lash blast and the smell of Aussie! My mom got me Mannatech’s Optimal Skin Care line and I love it! It doesn’t have any paraben preservatives (others w/o preservatives have to be refrigerated, but this doesn’t). It takes VERY little to make a difference, and while it’s pricey ($300 for 7 products, I’ve been using the same bottles for a year and the moisturizer is the only thing I’m about to run out of. I highly recommend it! Thanks for all your advice and tips!
My must have is Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer. It is not cheap, but my eyeshadow never creases. My eyes are very deep set and tend to make my eyelids feel a little greasy (I know there are not oil glands in your eye lides), but this stuff is awesome! With this stuff, you can buy the cheapest eyeshadow and it stays put!
Crisco. The shortening, for dry hands and feet. I use it religiously in the summertime on my heels because they will snag my sheets bceause I wear sandals and flip flops ALL the time because I’m a glutton for punishment. I can’t stand to sleep in socks or gloves, its a claustrophobia thing, so I try to smear on the crisco and wear the gloves and socks until I reach the hyperventilate stage then pull them off. I’m really enjoying reading all these ideas – has anyone else ever heard of putting Vicks VapoRub (we call it Vicks Salve – pronounced Say-ive her in Alabama) under your eyes for puffiness? That’s my worst problem at the moment and NOTHING seems to work.
I use Mary Kay skin care & cosmetics – the TimeWise anti-aging products are the best & has something for every skin issue. I’ve been a consultant for two years now and am excited to see how the company is changing & going “green”. Whichever product you use make sure you use a formulation for your skin type (norm/dry or combo/oily), use a moisturizer no matter what skin type you have & wash your face day and night. Also, only use products made for your eyes on your eye area, that skin is 1/3 the thickness of your skin so you don’t want to damage it & your ring finger is the weakest finger so the best one to apply cream. =]
That completely sounded like a different language. I wash my face with Dove and mosturize with whatever lotion is available. I wear no makeup, lipgloss or anything. I wonder if I look a ghost….
Well, the comments are lively and informative. Smell is EVERYthing to me when it’s on my face. I have discovered the ROC line of moisturizers for the face and I love them. Of course, I’m an old lady compared to you. This line is at CVS and Walgreens and is moderately priced. I don’t like the smell of Oil of Olay, though it feels nice.
Love the lash blast and the neutrogena moisterizer. But, you completely peaked my interest in the microdermabrasion kit. I went to CVS last night to get it and my experience was interesting. I posted about it today.
Thanks for the tips!
ok, I don’t use a lot of products. but i don’t get tip number 8. Help!
I’ve recently started using hydrogen peroxide as a mouth wash (DO NOT SWALLOW) to significantly whiten my teeth. Read this in a magazine. I’m an avid coffee drinker and this has made several people question what sort of dental procedure I have had to whiten my teeth. Can’t wait til I get a tan and they’ll look even better. It’s worth a try.
I’ve been looking for a new mascara, so thanks for the tip. But I have to second you on the OOO Microdermabrasion and Regenerist line. LOVE that stuff! I even went so far to get Target’s brand of night cream, with the “compare to OOO Night Creme” label…just as good,$10 less. Smell is different, but my skin feels great!
Aussie – haven’t touched the stuff since high school, but now I’m wondering how that compares to my Dove hairspray, which I love…hmmm.
My most recent favorite beauty product is BareMinerals makeup. I’ve been using it almost a year now and am completely in love. I always thought I would never use “powder” makeup because I thought it wouldn’t have very much coverage, but I was surprised to find that it has more coverage than any of the liquid makeups I used to use.
The oil cleanser sounds like something I’d like to try. How do you cleanse your face/remove your makeup when you’re not using the oil method?
Great comments and tips!
I love Carmex lip balm. It is the best and I cannot be without it. My Clairsonic is amazing! I have had mine for 2 years and it one of the best gifts my husband ever gave me! (Use it on your neck too and elbows!) You just can’t believe how wonderful it makes your skin feel and look. Bare Minerals…the best! You get amazing coverage (this has been said before but it is true). The Mineral Veil is a must!
I picked up some great tips! Thanks! But, I am still wondering about the Olive Oil/Castor Oil in # 8! We need clarification! Thanks Big Mama!
Where do you find the lotion? My hands are all cracked and bleeding and everythign I try either doesn’t work, or it irritates my skin and makes it crack more!
i’m writing all this down. i’m terrible at finding good beauty products. i wish you could pick out my jeans for me too.
What about self tanners. Every kind I’ve tried leaves a stinky after smell, then if I get hot, the smell gets worse. Any suggestions on that? The weather is getting warmer and I need some fake color!
I am an “Arbonne girl” and am a big fan of Arbonne’s self-tanner. What I really like is that it also has SPF! My favorite Arbonne suncare product is a sunscreen that gives you some artificial “tan-ness” when activated by heat or light. And, icing on the cake, all of Arbonne’s suncare products have anti-aging ingredients, too!
ps- If you’re interested in trying Arbonne’s products, feel free to email me at kgregorysc@gmail.com.
I don’t suppose you would like to write for Chic Critique 2x a month…
I am going to try #1 and #3 — I’ve heard such good things. And I’m a HUGE fan of #5.
And I am serious about Chic Critique, but I have a feeling you have your plate ful.