Bronzers & Contouring for Pale Skins | Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Golden Light & Benefit Hoola

If you’re pale like me, you’ve avoided bronzers all together, right? Even in the heart of the summer months here in Texas, I’ve never really been into the bronzey-tanned look; although, they look beautiful on others. Also, all throughout the year, I’m very conscious of protecting my skin with SPF, so it’s not like I have the natural opportunity to get any color. However, lately, I’ve been interested in contouring — although I’ve avoided that as well, since I never could trust a bronzer to be light enough to work with my pale skin. After some research and some major swatching, I’ve decided I like the Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Golden Light and the Benefit Hoola Bronzer the best for my skin tone.

For now, I’m mainly interested in contouring my nose to help it look slimmer and more defined. I haven’t quite been able to get over the fact that bronzers tend to make my FACE look muddy or dirty — and, this may be because I don’t know how to contour my face yet, LOL. But, occasionally, I do enjoy the effortless sun-kissed look that the Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Golden Light gives me when I dust it lightly on my cheeks and along my hairline. Benefit’s Hoola is excellent for contouring my nose with a slim, fluffy blending brush. It’s easy to blend and a little bit goes a long way.

Also, it’s perfect for my pale skin because it is the perfect shading color — meaning, it just creates a natural “shadow” along my nose. It truly does help to define my nose naturally, so that it doesn’t get lost on the “blank canvas” I create using foundation. Because my skin is very fair, I was afraid bronzers would be reddish or too orange on my skin. However, Benefit’s Hoola is the perfect shade of rich cocoa brown that doesn’t lean too red or too orange. It’s more beige, in my opinion. Currently, I have not experimented with this product on my face. But, in due time, I think I will since I like how it looks on my nose area. The formula is matte — which is great for contouring and it’s soft and blends well. If I accidentally apply too much, I just use my finger to wipe some off!

The Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in “Golden Light” is the lightest shade that Bobbi Brown offers. I like how in her range, there’s a bronzer for every skin tone from lightest to the darkest. The color selections help fit different skin tones, and this is helpful since most brands release one bronzing shade that is supposed to fit everyone. I prefer to use this bronzer on my face — along my cheekbones and along my hairline. Sometimes, if I feel like it, I’ll dust some on my nose and chin for the complete look.

The golden undertone is a great match for me and helps the bronzer look natural on my skin, without going overboard and looking like I smeared dirt on my face. The texture of the powder is really soft as well and that makes it just as blendable as Benefit’s Hoola. The color “Golden Light” is light and satiny in finish. It helps the skin glow, which is why it’s great for the face and not necessarily for contouring. I have in some instances used this to contour my nose and didn’t like it as much as when I used Hoola. I think this is another great option for those with pale skins.

Side by side, there’s a significant difference in undertone. While the Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder leans slightly more red, the Hoola bronzer remains brown/beige when compared to one another. Strangely, for me, the BB bronzing powder is great for overall bronzing, while Hoola is best for actual contouring. I’m thinking that the difference in undertones has a lot to do with that. I like both, but both aren’t necessary. For fair-skinned gals like me, using a fluffy brush that will pick up less amount of powder and spread it thinner is key. Also, it’s best to dust off the excess before applying it.

Benefit’s Hoola retails for $28.00 USD.
Made in USA.
Contains 0.28 oz.

Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder retails for $38.00 USD.
Made in USA.
Contains 0.28 oz.

La Roche-Posay | Physiological Cleansing Gel

After running out of my various foam cleaners, I decided to try the La Roche-Posay Physiological Cleansing Gel I came across. I’ve been dabbling in some La Roche Posay products when I come across them in person, but it hasn’t been an easy thing to do since they’re not widely available. So far, I’ve found them at select CVS locations and one Ulta location.

Previously, I reviewed the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo: Dual Action Acne Treatment and let me just say that it does WONDERS for cystic acne.

The La Roche-Posay Physiological Cleansing Gel’s “breakthrough technology” has an interesting concept – using “Poloxamer,” which is a “cleansing ingredient so mild it is used in contact lens solutions.” It is an ingredient that is the best for sensitive skin. While extremely gentle, the cleanser is still “effective [at] remov[ing] impurities while respecting skin’s natural balance.” The product “cleanses, purifies and refreshes skin, while respecting its physiological balance” and is “recommended for all skin types: sensitive skin, dry, and dehydrated skin.”

The gel texture looks and feels much like Cetaphil – very lotiony and slimy that DOES NOT produce any foam. However, there’s a slight cooling effect that feels refreshing and soothing on the skin. It’s very gentle and appears to keep my skin balanced and happy – although my skin feels cleansed, it’s not tight nor is it “un-squeaky” – if you know what I mean! The product rinses clean without dryness and irritation. My skin loves this stuff!

**Physiological pH, soap-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and safe for sensitive skins.

Key Ingredients:
Poloxamer – a mild cleanser use in contact lens solutions to cleanse even sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay thermal spring water – antioxidant, strengthens skin’s natural defenses.

200 mL
Retails for $20.95 USD.

Benefit ‘Hello Flawless!’ SPF 15

The Benefit ‘Hello Flawless!’ powder foundation is a new addition to my collection I’ve been loving. This item isn’t new by any means, and the only reason why I decided to give it a go is because a YouTuber by the name of Raeview, recommended it awhile back.

I don’t have a favorite powder foundation currently; and, for the most part, I tend to avoid powder products (unless it’s mineral) because I can’t stand that flat matte look. Other powder foundation posts I’ve written include the:

1. DiorSkin Forever Compact Flawless Perfection Fusion Wear Makeup (and I compare this with the Chanel Double Perfection Natural Matte Powder Makeup);
2. and the Chantecaille Compact Makeup Foundation;
3. and the Shiseido Sun Protection Compact Foundation;
4. and the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish – which tends to clog my pores (and I discovered this weeks after writing this corresponding post).

Previously, Chantecaille Compact Makeup Foundation was steadily in first place for me; however, I used it up so fast! To be fair, after I purchased the product, I loved it so much I used it everyday for weeks straight. And, before I knew it, I had hit pan – and, then shortly after that, it was gone – all within just a few months. I haven’t re-purchased since if you’re wondering.

I’ve heard the same thing about Benefit’s ‘Hello Flawless!’ but at least it’s half the price of the Chantecaille Compact Makeup Foundation, and it performs just as good – in my opinion! My shade ‘I Love Me’ Ivory is for fair ivory/light complexions, and is also the lightest shade in the range. I would say that this product is everything that I’ve ever wanted in a powder foundation.

Sephora describes the product as a “custom powder cover-up with SPF protection for the face.” It is “a blendable powder foundation with SPF 15 that goes on beautifully sheer and layers easily for customized coverage. Find your perfect shade and sweep it on with the accompanying brush for a sheer, natural finish; or apply with the sponge for full coverage or spot cover-up.”

The texture of this powder foundation is light and finely milled. As with all powder foundations, I dust it on with a powder brush or a kabuki brush; and, this is currently the only powder thus far that gets super powdery when I’m trying to get product onto the bristles. When applying, it feels like nothing – and, at first, I checked in the mirror to see if anything was happening – like, coverage~! Lol. Fortunately, application is easy – I dust/sweep it on and then add a few more sweeps onto my cheeks (because they tend to be pink).

The product comes with its own tools – since it’s marketed as a “dual product.” You sweep on the product with the brush for light coverage; and, you use the sponge for more/heavier coverage. For me, I like to use my own brush for the sweeping. However, the sponge is quite handy for days when you’ve got spots or other issues that need covering.

The coverage this powder foundation provides is impressive. It’s definitely buildable – depending on what tool you use – and, yet, there’s no caking or the look of flatness. I like to mist over it anyway to give my skin some extra glow, but this foundation tends to get better as the day wears on. As it mixes with the environment and your natural oils, it remains dewy and healthy throughout the day. Oil-control is quite good, but still requires blotting.

I recommend this product and it’s SO handy on lazy days when you can’t be bothered. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve saved myself from becoming annoyed in the morning by using this product – I blob on some concealer, pat it in, dust some ‘Hello Flawless!’ onto my face, add blush – and my face is done. All in about 2 minutes. :)

What are your thoughts? Intrigued?

Made in USA.
0.25 oz.
Retails for $34.00 USD.

Lancome RÉNERGIE EYE MULTIPLE ACTION Ultimate Eye Care Duo

The Lancome RÉNERGIE EYE MULTIPLE ACTION Ultimate Eye Care Duo is an item I’ve had my eye (no pun intended, hehe) on for quite some time. In the past, I reluctantly passed it up because either I was already currently trying to use up an eye cream; or, I couldn’t get myself to spend nearly $80 for an eye cream of all things.

At a massive outlet sale, I was able to snag this for just $25! What a steal! I’ve been using it for nearly 3 months and I’ve got to say that I love it – even for my young self. Because it works so well for me, I’m inclined to believe that results for those with more mature skin would be astronomical. In short, I believe that it would truly be a product that is equally effective and useful.

The RÉNERGIE EYE MULTIPLE ACTION Ultimate Eye Care Duo is an interesting dual-functioning product. In the future, when contemplating if I’d like to re-purchase, I could potentially justify purchasing it by convincing myself that my nearly $80 would be well spent because it’s two products in one. The claims are high – but, because I find that it’s truly working – I think Lancome succeeded in releasing a product that did what it was supposed to do.

According to Lancome, “youthful-looking eyes are the key to a youthful-looking face. The eye area is the most delicate part of the face, so it is the first area to show the signs of aging.” Because of this, Lancome’s innovative product is marketed as “eye care at its peak.” This “ultimate eye care system…[is] a unique combination of two treatments for six visible anti-aging actions.”

“Eyelids are visibly lifted [and] the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is virtually erased.” The “eye contour looks firmer [and] looks illuminated” while “under-eye bags are visibly deflated” and “dark circles appear faded.” The product claims to make the “eye area is visibly revitalized. In just 4 weeks, the whole face looks up to 5 years younger.”

As you can see, this dual-functioning product is an eye cream and veil in one. I wouldn’t consider it a heavy-duty concealer or even a mild concealer. Much like the YSL touche eclat, the top portion of this product, is a veil that is applied after the eye cream. Basically, the cream is designed to “lift, firm, and fight wrinkles,” while the veil is used to “fade, deflate, and illuminate.”

I appreciate the portability of this product because it’s functional and compact. The cream is a whipped texture that feels creamy but absorbs into the skin well. This is important for me – especially regarding eye creams – simply because I hate it when my eye cream sits on top of everything and slides around. To me, it probably wipes off onto my pillow and the product is wasted.

This cream, however, absorbs right in. The instructions suggests to apply the cream around the orbital bone, into the eyebrows, around the under eye area, and into the temples. That’s A LOT of product to use. So, I stick with applying it around my eye area – upper and lower – and I rub the remaining amount of product into the eyebrow area. I suspect that Lancome recommends applying generously all over for the ultimate lifting and firming effect.

I use the veil in shade 1. It’s a light, fair shade that will be suitable for those with pale skin. It’s an emollient creamy consistency that is very thin. This is NOT a concealer, so you don’t need to pack it on with a brush. I just swirl my ring finger around in it, get some product on my finger, and apply gently under the eye and into the inner corners of my eyes. Amazing, my eyes are brightened yet it’s not masked under concealer and corrector. It’s just a natural, healthy bright-eyed look.

I apply the eye cream after my morning skincare and before my sun protection. Then, I apply the veil after foundation and before powdering my t-zone.

I’m amazed by the product and am surprised that it’s all that it’s hyped up to be. It’s recommended that you use it morning and night (the veil just in the morning), but for me, I reserve it for mornings because this is so freakin’ expensive. It’s the perfect way to oomph up your eyes without going overboard. I think those who have more mature skin will benefit more than me; and, I highly recommend it. But, if you’re like me, and you’re looking to implement preventative measures – I don’t think there’s anything wrong with integrating a product like this into your routine.

Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested for safety.
$78.00 USD.

REVIEW: Sibu Buckthorn Cleanse & Detox

The Sibu Buckthorn Cleanse & Detox facial soap is something to think about if you have oil to oily-combination skin. I first heard about this brand/soap from Michele1218 on YouTube, but never purchased it online until I stumbled across it at Whole Foods. Recently, Sandra, from 15 Steps, Then a Beauty Blog, also known as ttsandra on YouTube mentioned it in her skincare routine post.

Commonly, it is known to avoid using a bar soap to wash your face because soap tends to be drying. However, it seems that various brands have continued to embrace the “facial bar soap” concept – such as Cetaphil, Neutrogena, and even Dove. For me, I tried the Sibu Buckthorn Cleanse & Detox facial soap cautiously because of these initial speculations; but, I’d have to say that I’m quite surprised with the results.

The Sibu Buckthorn Cleanse & Detox facial soap contains the brand’s signature ingredient: sea buckthorn oil. According to the website, sea buckthorn oil is “a rich source of the elusive essential fatty acid, Omega-7, an essential fatty acid vital to collagen production and healthy skin, hair and nails.” The “sea buckthorn berry fortifies itself against the elements by producing an array of powerful nutrients. With over 190 bioactive compounds, sea buckthorn is an unsurpassed source of Omegas 3, 6, and 9.”

It seems that sea buckthorn oil, much like Moroccan oil, is another popular oil that “is a natural product with 1300 years of traditional uses with the modern scientific research to back it up.” The recent trend of using natural oils to help skin and hair is one that I’m liking, because I know that it’s going to be gentle and calming – since chemicals and man-made elements won’t be present.

This facial soap claims to “awaken your skin and wash away a day of stress and pollutants with pure, simple and effective Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn.” It “lathers thick and rich to cleanse, detox, moisturize, repair, and protect skin from cell damaging free radicals.” Not only does it cleanse and condition, but the soap’s ingredients acts as a “natural astringent,” which helps all skin types feel toned and revitalized. “Sea buckthorn is known as nature’s most balanced fruit,” and is also known as the “Holy Fruit of the Himalayas.” It “has been cherished by native Tibetans for centuries for its incredible nutritive qualities.”

For me, this soap is awesome but it can be drying. I tried using it every morning, but needed to switch it to every other morning. Oil-controlling abilities is amazing; and, it keeps my skin in check during the day wonderfully. It’s so wonderful that even the next day, my skin is still balanced and behaving (hence, the every other day use of the soap). I can’t say that my skin has drastically improved, but my skin is calmed and soothed; and, in conjunction with this soap and other skincare products previously mentioned, they all seem to work well together for now. I think this soap will be super during the summer here in Texas.

Detailed Product Description:
*It is paraben-free and cruelty-free, and contains NO dairy, wheat, gluten, sodium, yeast or preservatives.
*3.5 ounce bars
*100% natural

Ingredients:
Coconut oil, palm oil, safflower oil, glycerin, purified water, oatmeal, sodium hydroxide, sea buckthorn puree, sorbitol, sorbitan oleate, fragrance orange/lemon, soybean protein, sea buckthorn leaves, titanium dioxide.

** Sibu’s sea buckthorn is sourced through fair trade agreements with local harvesters in Tibet.

** All quotes were extracted from Sibu’s website: www.sibubeauty.com.

REVIEW: Olay Fresh Effects BB Cream SPF 15 – “Fair to Light”

Although the Bobbi Brown BB Cream is currently my only favorite “Western BB cream,” I have yet to be happy with the performance of other brands – high-end AND low-end. I innocently stopped by Walgreens to get chapstick and stumbled upon Olay’s new Fresh Effects collection for the skin. I was intrigued.

While the new collection includes face wipes, a moisturizer, and other skincare necessities, I was drawn towards the Fresh Effects BB Cream (SPF 15) and purchased it. To get to the point, I hated it and it’s going to be returned. It’s not even worth keeping around for lazy days. For me, if I don’t like a product I just don’t write about it. However, since Western BB creams are all the craze right now, it’s only fair for me to tell you WHY I disliked it so much compared to my beloved Asian BB creams.

The box indicates – that this BB creams contains “no oil or PABA” and has “just the good stuff” in it. The Fresh Effects range apparently is a line catered towards those who want to “create a customized skin care that’s as expressive and vibrant as you are.” It claims to provide an airbrushed finish while giving your skin 24-hour hydration and a “splash of sheer color for a flawlessly radiant look.” Supposedly, we can say “bye bye to blotches and imperfections, and hello to instant skin-perfecting coverage.” The BB cream claims to contain 6 “skin perfecting benefits” – it “refreshes, brightens, evens skin tone, hydrates, smoothes, and protects.” Marketed as a product that is an “all-in-one solution for instantly brighter-looking, smoother-feeling, [and] even skin tone,” the claims are VERY high.

First of all, this is the only product I’ve tried that did absolutely NOTHING. In fact, I figured if I didn’t get any coverage, at least I’d get all the hydration. Fail. Second, the coverage – although the product said it would be sheer – was SO sheer that it did nothing and looked like nothing. Fail. Third, a BB cream is NOT a tinted moisturizer; just like a tinted moisturizer is NOT a foundation. Using the terms synonymously and expecting equal results from products that do different things is wrong to begin with!! Saying that the product is sheer yet it provides all this coverage is misleading – and, unfortunately, Western BB creams haven’t been able to hold up to these claims yet.

Also, the whole purpose of a BB cream is to be a multi-tasking product with lots of sun protection. That’s the whole point. Yet, this product contains only SPF 15. Again, Fail.

I chose the color “Fair to Light” and it was fine. The consistency is thick and goopy but spreads evenly despite the initial texture. There’s a lot of product in a single tube and the opening allows for a lot of product to be squeezed out at once. This product is NOT buildable so the excess product goes to waste.

The scent is a light, almost fruity scent that quickly disappears. It doesn’t bother me, although if I were keeping the product, it would help for it be unscented. When applied with a buffing brush, the product was hard to blend in. It just moved around on my face and clogged up my brush with product – which, again, is wasteful. When I used my hands, it was slightly better – but, I swear, the product transferred more onto my hands than onto my face. Again, fail.

Final results yielded nothing. Once applied onto the skin, nothing happened. Nothing was covered – the redness or blotchiness. It didn’t even minimize it; and, my face looked like I hadn’t applied anything at all! FAIL! What was supposed to be a quick application turned into an ordeal – I had to go back and apply concealer and powder over it to get the finished look I was going for. And, even then, I still wasn’t happy with the overall look. What’s upsetting is that I’m not one who needs a lot of coverage to begin and I LOVE the natural look. But even for me, this product was useless.

All in all, I wouldn’t recommend this product. You’re better off spending a little extra on something that provides results – like a real tinted moisturizer – perhaps like the Chantecaille ‘Just Skin’ Tinted Moisturizer; or, the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. If you’re on the hunt for a Western BB cream, I’d go for the Bobbi Brown BB Cream that I mentioned before. Above all else, I still prefer Asian BB creams, which are widely available on eBay and other websites that cater towards Asian products, such as http://www.imomoko.com/ I hope this was helpful to some of you. The search continues for a good, well-performing Western BB cream. Onward!

On sale at Walgreens for $12.99 USD.
2.5 fl. oz. (75 ml)
Made in USA.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream has been my new favorite daytime moisturizer. I’m not sure how this will work for me in the warmer months, but for the winter months, it’s done wonders for helping out my dehydrated normal skin.

Online – I’ve noticed mixed reviews; albeit the reviews are generally positive for this cream. Many found it too oily and others didn’t find it hydrating enough. In my opinion, that means this product may be geared towards those with normal to normal-combination skins. However, a good part of something to consider is also the climate in which you live. For me, I’m in Texas where it’s generously warm and the winters are fair. Yet, even with my fairly normal skin, it does feel dry and dehydrated in the colder months.

This cream claims to give you 24-Hour moisture. In my opinion, it does. Also, although it’s designed as a “facial CREAM,” the texture of it is really light and almost gel-ish. It’s not necessary whipped like some lightweight creams and it’s not a full-on gel either. However, for a cream, it’s incredibly light and absorbs quickly into the skin.

Other product claims according to the Kiehl’s website:
•24-hour, light-textured daily hydrator leaves skin comfortable and visibly well-balanced, particularly in harsh weather conditions.
•Unique combination of ingredients helps reduce moisture loss while drawing and absorbing moisture from the air.
•With continuous moisture replenishment throughout the day, skin is smooth and healthy-looking.

I apply this cream directly after my toner in the mornings. It absorbs quickly and I’m able to move onto my sunscreen right away, and it doesn’t seem to hinder my morning makeup routine. My foundation still applies perfectly fine and lasts well throughout the day. One thing that I have noticed is that my random dry patches are soothed and often less visible. On really good days, my dry patches are totally gone. Another thing I’ve noticed is that because my skin feels balanced – meaning, it’s no longer dehydrated – my oil production around my t-zone is less prominent. Seems weird but makes sense all at the same time. I still need to blot my face halfway through the day – but that’s just what my mid-day routine is no matter what I use or don’t use, lol.

If you’re looking for something to soothe and moisturize your skin, I’d say give this a go. I wouldn’t say that this is absolutely life-changing and you need it in your life right now; however, for seasonal purposes, this does help. As previously stated, I’m not sure how it will work for me in the summer time – although, I feel that it may be too much for the hotter months – but, this is a keeper for me!

1.7 fl.oz.
Made in USA.
Retails for $26.50

The New MAC Palette

Many of you may have noticed that MAC released their new empty palettes. As usual, I’m a little late to join in on the party, but I’m so pleased to finally have one now. I enjoy palettes because of its convenience and versatility, but the best part of these empty palettes is the ability to customize. MAC re-vamped all their palettes and they’re much better looking and function way better than the flimsy old palettes. :)

The Pro Palette (15 pan) is perfect, and is much better than the thin palette from before. This time around, the clear front allows for all your products to be visible; the casing of the palette is sturdy and thicker; and, the magnetic closure is more secure – while the old palette was one that I was afraid would crack at any moment!

While the old palette came with its own insert – and, you can pop it out if you wished – the new palette comes with an optional insert that you can buy separately. I, for one, opted to not purchase the insert – in order to fit more eyeshadows in a single palette. Another great thing about not having an insert is that you can put whatever magnetized product you wished – different brands, blushes, eyeshadows, or a mixture of everything.

Here, I’ve featured ALL of my favorite MAC shadows that are in pan form.
From left to right:
Row 1 – Soba, Mulch, Era, Sable, Tempting, Naked Lunch;
Row 2 – Phloof, Patina, Mystery, Club, Arena, Honesty;
Row 3 – Wedge, Blanc Type, Copperplate, Cork, Quarry, Sketch;
Row 4 – Black Tied, All That Glitters, Woodwinked, Brun, Shroom

Overall, I really like this palette and it’s inspired me to get more use out of my MAC shadows. Currently, on MAC’s website, they’re all sold out of the palettes, but they’re definitely worth checking out! :) What are your thoughts?

15 pan pro palette (with no insert) retails for $16.00 USD.

How-To Apply Foundation

Applying foundation is easy once you’ve developed your personal style. What’s important is that you choose a formula that works for your skin type, rather going for a chosen brand. Another thing to remember is that what you do before makeup application is just as important when it comes to how your foundation will look and how it will wear throughout the day.

At night, proper skincare is imperative – remove all traces of makeup – including eye makeup, lipstick, and of course, your base makeup. Follow up with night time skincare – it doesn’t have to elaborate, but moisturization is key for healthy looking skin. Remember that without adequate hydration, your skin will be dry and dehydrated – which makes it difficult to blend your foundation. It will also accentuate fine lines, wrinkles, flakes, and areas of dryness.

In the morning, splash your face with water that is at a comfortable temperature; or, if you’re oily-skinned, use a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil to get your face started on a clean slate. Apply toner if needed and don’t forget to moisturize and add sun protection/primer. Allow a few minutes for the products to sink into the skin. If not, it will be too slick for foundation – allowing the makeup to move around and slide – eventually, it will come off throughout the day and get patchy.

Nowadays, there’s tons of foundation formulas – liquid, cream, powder, cream to power, mineral, etc. Find one that works well with your personal skin type. Get samples of different colors and formulas and experiment with them to find which ones you like.

I found this on Pinterest and just had to share it with you. Everyone develops their own taste and technique, so do what feels right for you. But if you’re unsure, give this pictorial a go because I think it could help! Another thing to think about is the right tool to apply your foundation. Your hands are perfectly fine for liquid and cream types, but if you’re concerned about hygienic issues, use a synthetic buffing brush or flat paddle brush. In my opinion, a synthetic buffing brush is much more versatile and deposits just the right amount of color onto the skin. For mineral or powder foundation, try a kabuki brush or a dense fluffy brush to sweep on the color.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

The Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate has been added into my nighttime skincare routine. Serums are important to integrate into your regular skincare routine because it’s very potent and penetrates deep into the layers of the skin.

Layering your skincare:
Layering is important because you’re delivering different amounts and various ingredients into your skin as a form of treatment. Typically with anti-aging routines, layering skincare products is common and how you layer is just as important. Remember that as long as you’ve found products that are right for your skin and you allow each product to absorb properly, you shouldn’t have any problems with clogged pores.

After cleansing, I apply a gentle toner (although it is optional) and immediately apply this serum onto my skin. I use about 2 drops and gently massage it into my skin – making sure to get it into every nook. Then, I press my hands onto my cheeks and forehead to allow the product to absorb properly into my skin. While waiting for my skin to fully drink it up, I pluck/groom my eyebrows and apply chapstick. Then, I layer on a cream to seal in the serum and to deliver moisture and hydration (although this serum can do that without a separate cream). Serums are always applied before the cream.

Benefits of face oil:
You shouldn’t be scared of using oil for your face even if you have oily or combination skin. This light oil is considered to be a “purely potent over-night repair” because your skin and body repairs itself at night. Essentially, you’re giving your skin something to drink – literally – so that you can wake up with regenerated, smooth, plump, and restored skin. Not all face oils are created equally, so experiment around and ask for samples while you’re deciding which one is the right one for you. However, I believe in terms of OILS, the natural – the better.

Kiehl’s website describes the Midnight Recovery Concentrate as:
•Lightweight, overnight treatment.
•Regenerates, repairs, and replenishes skin for a smoother, healthier skin.
•Works with the skin’s natural nocturnal activity when skin is most receptive to repairing itself from daily aggressors to dramatically restore skin.
•99.8% naturally-derived and paraben-free.

This is perfect for the winter months when the air is much more dry. However, I plan on using this a few times a week even when the weather gets warmer. It’s just a good basic to have to keep your skin calm and hydrated. The natural oils in the serum are soothing and my skin just drinks this stuff up. I haven’t had ANY issues with it clogging my pores or breaking me out – if anything, it’s kept my skin so calm that it hasn’t erupted with anything in awhile.

I suspect this product will last me a long time because such a little bit goes a long way. I recommend it for all ages and especially those – like me – who are using preventative measures for anti-aging.

Main ingredients:
1. Evening Primrose Oil is an effective on skin barrier repair and boosting radiance.
2. Lavender Essential Oil helps soothe inflamed or irritated skin while helping reduce skin blotchiness for a more even look. Creates a brighter and more radiant look to skin.
3. A signature Kiehl’s ingredient, Squalane is a botanical lipid that is similar in molecular structure to natural skin lipids. It has an exceptional affinity to skin, and because it’s easily absorbed, Squalane helps restore skin’s natural moisture balance to keep it extra soft and supple.

1 oz.
Made in USA.
Retails for $46.00