Quick Take: 2015 in Skincare

 

Hello beauties!,

I can not believe another year has passed by- It seems only yesterday, I was making mental 2015 New Years Resolutions (none of which I really did- whoops.) Anyway, this year will be different…. right?

Now that 2015 has passed, I feel like I should do a little reflection- not on precious family moments or personal triumphs but SKIN CARE, I mean, what else?

So here, I have made a simple list of my favorite products all regarding essential skincare caregories… enjoy!

 

S K I N    C A R E

Cleanser: Ole Henriksen
African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser ($30)

Why I like it:

Originally, I purchased this cleanser in a travel size just to test it out at Sephora. I immediately was drawn to the light smell of citrus and the frothy foam of the product. Ole Henrikson is known to make some of the most high- quality skin care items around and this cleanser is no exception. I find that the formula does a great job of cleansing the skin without stripping it, which is great for these colder months when everyone gets pesky dry patches.

Toner: Burt’s Bees Rosewater Toner ($11)

Why I like it:

This little guy I have yet to talk about in a “Monthly Favorites” post but I honestly love this affordable gem. Burt’s Bees will always hold a special place in my makeup- obsessed heart- it is just one of those all around good brands that never gets old. This product is 99% natural and is incredibly gentle on the skin. I love to use it right after cleansing with a little cotton pad. The smell is so beautiful too with a nice, subtle hint of fresh roses.

Moisturizer: Perricone MD
Face Finishing Moisturizer ($75)

Why I like it:

Everyone needs a solid moisturizer and this Perricone MD formula aids in  minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as provides antioxidant protection. Plus, this little tub is packed with essential vitamins with the powers of ALA, DMAE, and vitamin C ester. Though it is pricy, it is very, very worth it.

Night mask: Sunday Riley
Luna Sleeping Night Oil ($105)

Why I like it:

Now this is one of those products you really have to convince yourself to buy due to the hefty price tag but LET ME TELL YOU, this night oil is like liquid gold in a bottle. I got turned onto this oil by so many fellow beauty bloggers, I just had to finally try it. This LUNA oil really does everything while you sleep- it has a powerful retinol complex that reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles while “simultaneously correcting damage caused by the sun, time, and pollution.” You will wake up after the first use with noticeably clearer skin that is slightly firmer. Aesthetic wise, the packaging is perfect and the blue oil sinks in naturally onto the skin. A great buy all around.

Face mask: Origins
Clear Improvement™ Active Charcoal Mask To Clear Pores ($25)

Why I like it:

I’ve repurchased this item several times and can always rely on it to quickly detox my skin. Made with a natural charcoal base, this mask is equally gentle on the skin as it is cleansing. I have trouble with masks at times with skin irritation, and this Origins formula has never given me issues of any kind. As masks go, it is also relatively affordable.

 

Makeup Remover: Garnier Micellar Cleansing  Water  ($8.99)

Why I like it:

For a while now, I have been hearing about Micellar water- it not only removes makeup but gently cleanses as well. This Garner Micellar water has been in Europe for a while but has finally moved here to the U.S recently. I love this product because it is not as harsh as the cleansing cloths I was using prior and does a fantastic job of removing even the most stubborn makeup.

 

Hydrating Face Mist: Herbivore
Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist ($32)

Why I like it:

You know right after you cleanse your face or in the morning where you feel like your skin needs a little something to awaken it? This face mist is perfect for those who need a little skin pick-me-up. The smell is delicate and the face mist, formulated with fresh, coconut water, is incredibly hydrating.

Treatment: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17)

Why I like it:

Everyone gets those little problem spots and this medically- formulated product will help tremendously. I usually put on this product with a Qtip before bed and notice a dramatic change in the appearance of my problem spots the next day. The only thing I’ll say is that this product does sting a bit when applied, but that is simply the formula doing its job, killing harmful bacteria. This is honestly my #1 acne recommendation- I can not find anything as effective on the market.

Lotion: Soap & Glory Righteous Body Butter ($12)

Why I like it:

oooooooo my, this product is delicious. From the smell to the lux feel of the product itself, this has to be my favorite lotion yet. I love how though the lotion is rich, it sinks into the skin with ease without leaving a sticky film. Plus, the vintage inspired packaging is beauteous.

Eye Cream: Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado ($47)

Why I like it:

Hate to say it, but there is no magical product that can take away dark circles and bags completely, BUT this gem does a fair job at reducing swollen, tired eyes. This Kiehl’s formula is creamy and ultra moisturizing, formulated with natural Avocado Oil. It is non- irritating and sinks into the skin nicely. Though the tub is small, you can actually get great use out of it! I’ve had mine for about 5 months now and I still have product left.

Body Wash: Aēsop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser ($45)

Why I like it:

This natural body wash is pricy but my ultimate favorite- Aēsop is just one of those brands you must try out. The product itself smells fresh and green, packaged in a sturdy bottle. This is an ultra- invigorating wash and works with any skin type with thorough cleansing power.

Lip Mask/ Moisturizer: Bite Beauty
Smashed Agave Lip Mask ($26)

Why I like it:

Especially in the Winter months, I have a serious case of chapped lips and this Bite Beauty product is one of main lip products I have been constantly drawn to. This lip mask is formulated with lanolin, vanilla extract, natural olive fruit, and jojoba oil, creating a lovely scent while providing needed, immediate moisture for the lips. This Agave mask also has a slight rose tint, making the lips look naturally flushed and healthy. It is no wonder why this product has been on Sephora’s best seller list for the past couple months.

Well, there you have it! My little list of skin care treasures I have discovered this past year. Though I have tried thousands of other fair products, I have to say, these are the true keepers. For any requests/ questions, feel free to leave a comment down below or message me anytime.

Write to ya soon!

xx,