p.m. routine

When the moon rises, it's time to hit the sink and start the night time ritual of removing the day's face. When you're body is at rest, products have a chance to absorb and sink deeper into the skin, so this is the time to really pack on the products. If you're afraid of layering during the day, because you also wear makeup, save the treatments for the evening. They'll be more effective anyway.


1. When I'm wearing anything waterproof (like liner or mascara), the Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover is one of the best at taking everything off. I usually soften my lashes with a bit of warm water, then pour the remover onto a cotton round and hold it on my lashes for a minute. Then I gently wipe the makeup off, without rubbing, to prevent eyelashes from falling out.

2. Ole Henriksen Nurture Me Makeup Removing Wipes are made of a soft cotton, so they're gentle on my face but also take every ounce of makeup off. Most days I just use these wipes and then follow with a cleanser.

3. Caudalie Instant Foaming Mousse Cleanser is something I could literally inhale because I love the clean cucumber scent! It's also a wonderfully pH balanced cleanser, so no toner is necessary.

4a. Dermadoctor Poetry in Lotion is a 1% retinol treatment that I only use 3x a week, so that's why I have the other serums for my "off" nights. When I use the retinol, I skip the moisturizer and eye cream and just use a bit of oil (7.) to keep my skin from drying out.

4b. Dr. Brandt Laser Perfect Serum has a lovely feel and sinks in quickly. It's jam-packed with antioxidants to keep my skin supple and healthy.

4c. When my skin gets a bit dull, Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester 15 ampoules do just the trick. Vitamin C Ester is patented by Dr. Perricone and is one of the most stable and effective Vitamin C's available. Any dark spots fade and there's an overall radiance to my skin that I'm crazy about.

5. The triple peptide formulation in Dr. Brandt Do Not Age Eye cream gives my eye area the firming and hydration that it needs after a long day of smiling.

6. Who knew I would like Greek yogurt so much that I'd put it on my face? The Greek folks at Korres did, that's who. Their Korres Advanced Nourishing Sleeping Facial contains Greek yogurt, which is a superior hydrator for the skin, and keeps my face feeling plump and soft.

7. Caudalie Premier Cru Elixir is an anti-aging oil that I use over my moisturizer for extra hydration. I've also used this oil before and really liked it, but the Elixir oil is full of anti-inflammatory prickly pear, which makes it a superb anti-aging. Plus, it smells of soft, springtime roses that just make you feel blissful.

8. Whenever I have a doosey of a pimple coming (or has arrived) I just dip a Q-tip into this little jar of pink bliss: Kate Somerville EradiKate. Although the sulfur smell is not my favorite, the results are worth it and my blemishes are leveled flat in no time.


So, what's your evening routine like? Do you have different products for day time vs. night time?

wake up call

On a regular basis, I'm asked what products I use. Sometimes people ask me because they're complimenting me. Sometimes they genuinely want to know so that I can recommend something from my routine. And sometimes I think they want to know so that they can test me. Maybe they're testing me because they know I'm an Esthetician or because I have a beauty blog, or because they know I have a terrible memory and can't remember the products I use on my face every. day. It's pathetic, really.

Anyway, here's my routine for the fall/winter/early spring seasons (I'll post my p.m. routine tomorrow). As the weather warms up, some of these products will change.

1. First Aid Beauty Cleanser is my go-to cleanser when I need to use something quick and gentle. Sometimes my face is extra sensitive (maybe from a peel or too much retinol) and this cleanser will clean my skin without drying it or adding to any irritation.

2. I alternate between the First Aid Beauty Cleanser and this one. The Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Cleanser feels like you are washing your face with a cloud. It's a creamy foam that is heaven sent for combo/dry skin...it also doesn't hurt that the soft citrus scent gently wakes me up.

3. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate is a facial in a tube. It contains enzymes, an AHA peel and also granules so it's a triple exfoliator that packs a major punch. My skin is super soft every time I use this.

4. I don't know how I've lived without Dr. Brandt Needles No More. It's a targeted serum that's only applied to the areas where Botox would go (which is only the forehead and outer crow's feet) and a dual peptide delivery system relaxes the muscle contraction and mimics the results of Botox, but without the needle. There are immediate and cumulative results and I'm just over the moon about it.

5. Shiseido Ultimune Concentrate is a pre-treatment serum that is full of antioxidant protection to keep my skin on the D-E-F-E-N-S-E all. day. long.

6. Fresh Black Tea Eye Concentrate is a lovely, hydrating (albeit rich) eye cream that moisturizes my dry eye area. It also doesn't hurt that it's loaded with anti-aging benefits.

7. I've expressed the benefits of using a hyaluronic acid serum before and Perricone MD Hyalo Plasma is the one I use to keep myself from slathering my dehydrated skin with gross stuff, like Vaseline.

8. Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Cream has a cream-gel texture that sinks in and feels great. I only wish it had an SPF, but at least I get that from my tinted moisturizer.

Ok, so what are the products you use in the morning? Do you use as many products as this?

toolin' around

Do you use a cleansing device to wash your face? I've praised the results of the Clarisonic brush before, but now that they have a new model out it seems that the market is flooded with other brands trying to elbow their way in.

Why use a cleansing tool, and not just your hands? For starters, they're going to clean your face waaaaaay better than your fingers ever could. So, once your skin is deeply cleansed every product (like a serum/moisturizer) that you put on will absorb deeper because there's no dirt, oil and residual makeup blocking the product.

Here's a quick breakdown of the 3 most popular cleansing tools, and why I rated them as such:

GOOD:
The Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush is perfect for anyone who claims to have sensitive skin and needs something gentle. It also happens to be the cheapest (coming in at $90). Using sonic movement, the white bristles on the brush head are gentle and meant for the cheeks, while the green tip is ideal for the t-zone where a deeper cleanse may be necessary. Comes with a stand that dries and charges the device.

BETTER: 
The Foreo LUNA Mini (pronounced FOR-AY-O) is the most unique because it's made up of tiny anti-bacterial silicone nubs that pulsate and gently massage the skin. It's probably the most gentle of the three devices (and moderately priced at $139), and ideal for anyone who used a cleansing device with a brush and found the bristles just too strong. Use it for 1 minute, 2x a day and be amazed at how rarely you have to charge it. This is also great for anyone who travels a lot because it's compact and you don't need any other attachments. It also comes in a multitude of fun colors.

BEST:
The Clarisonic Smart Profile, Face and Body Sonic Cleansing is where I'd personally put my money because it's intuitive and truly smart. It has 4 speeds, will clean 11x better than hands alone, comes with a face and body brush head attachment and the brush heads contain tiny microchips that communicate with the tool. For example, if you're using the device in "smart mode" the brush head will adjust the speed automatically based on where you move it on your face. So if you are using it on your cheeks, it will be more gentle than say your forehead. The tool will also let you know when you need to replace the brush heads, so you don't have to mark the calendar when you bought your last one (as if anyone does that anyway!). Really every skin type can benefit from this one, and the fact that you can use it on your body is also a BIG bonus. The only two downsides are the price: $265 (why do I always like the expensive stuff?!) and they only have one color- white. I'm sure that will change soon though since Clarisonic offers a variety of colors for their other models.


As with any of these devices, they're only meant to be used with a cleanser, so no exfoliation with these (they could be too abrasive with a scrub and cause irritation). Oh, and the two-step cleansing is still crucial with (or without) any of these devices.

Would you consider buying a cleansing tool, or do you already own one?

drink it up

1. Ren Instant Firming Beauty Shot 2. Dermadoctor Wrinkle Revenge Serum  3. Clarins Hydra Quench Bi-Serum 4. Perricone MD Hyalo Plasma   5. Peter Thomas Roth Viz 1000 Serum 

Taking care of your skin couldn't come at a better time. Most of the country is swept up in Arctic temps, which will leave your skin chapped, red, and dehydrated. Maybe you live in Arizona and are dealing with dry, desert landscapes that equally create Arctic-like havoc on your skin. Or maybe you have oily skin, which breaks out really easily, so the idea of a heavy moisturizer has you terrified. Regardless of your environment, or fears, most of us need more water in our diet, and coincidentally on our face.

That's where Hyaluronic Acid comes in. It sounds scary and potentially dangerous but it's quite the opposite. Hyaluronic Acid (aka Sodium Hyaluronate) is naturally occurring in our skin and plumps up the cells with water-like moisture leaving your skin lubricated, soft and fine lines filled in a bit (if you want a lot of filling, then you get this filler which is primarily made up of Hyaluronic Acid).

The five serums that are featured all contain high amounts of Hyaluronic Acid. A cosmetic chemist once told me that Hyaluronic Acid is a very expensive ingredient, so if you see it high on the ingredient list then that probably explains why you have sticker shock. I have personally tried 4 out of the 5 serums and can tell you that they were like a drink of water for my skin, without feeling greasy (my favorite one is the Perricone Hyalo Plasma though. It has a cushion-y texture that my skin loved and needed). Just apply the serums to clean, dry skin; let it absorb and then follow with your moisturizer (or if you're oily skin, then that is your moisturizer!).

Has your skin changed with the season too? Have you needed to change your skincare routine because of it? I'd love to hear what you're using!

Aspirational Aging

Charlotte Rampling for NARS lipsticks

I must say I've been pleasantly surprised by some beauty companies (NARS and Marc Jacobs among them) who are featuring older women for their beauty campaigns. Sure, we've seen Sharon Stone (for Dior) and Diane Keaton (for L'oreal) promote various anti-aging creams, but to have a model with visible lines and wrinkles that are featuring a lipstick or mascara, well it's just unprecedented.

Jessica Lange for Marc Jacobs Beauty

Most of the beauty advertisers use flawless-skinned young beauties that will have just the right pout for that gloss, or smooth, high cheekbones to feature their newest blush.

Yes that's shimmer (SHIMMER!!) on her lids and she's over 60. Gasp!

After working in the Beauty Industry for a decade+, I've learned a few things from various interactions I've had with women of all ages (including my mother and relatives). There truly is no such thing as anti-aging. In fact, we're all aging right now, even as you read this sentence. We can't fight time and gravity (ok, maybe a plastic surgeon can fight it for a while). And even though we all know that anything labeled "anti-aging" is one of the best marketing ploys out there, there are still ways that we can look, and feel, younger. So this is what I know:
- A colorful lipstick will brighten your face and make you feel polished, even if you have no other makeup on.
- Hair dye was invented for a reason- grey hair definitely ages you. As my Mom always said, she'll keep dying her hair until my Dad's hair goes white too. Sometimes you have to level the playing field.
- I'll never forget the laugh I shared with a client when she called the skin between her breasts the "Grand Canyon"...  in fact, this still makes me laugh. A sense of humor is invaluable.
- If your eyelids are droopy, don't worry about eye makeup and wear a bold lip instead. If your lips are thinning, wear a bright blush on the cheeks. There are still ways to enhance your features and to brighten your skin, even if it is dry and gravity has taken its toll.
- I have a client whom I love helping. She's a white-haired beautiful woman and is the epitome of grace and sophistication. Her clothes and makeup are impeccably tailored and applied, and even though she uses a cane, she walks with elegance. She also wears the most incredible jewelry, and when I once complimented her on it she said, "they're all from my husband, and it took years to get." Now that's something to look forward to!
- Movement in your face is a wonderful thing- I once worked with an older woman at a spa and she told me she liked me because I smiled with my eyes. Happy, friendly people smile with their whole face- and it should show. So when I see the "crows feet" appearing I just think about who or what made me smile that day and then I end up smiling again...


While I'll still feature the newest anti-aging ingredients or things to keep you looking and feeling younger, I just want to age as healthily as I can. I want my body to be strong, my mind to be quick, to feel love and joy every day and to stay relevant and "with it" in regards to the ever-changing society/economy/technology that we're all apart of. And if I happen to use something to lengthen my lashes or to help dark spots disappear, then it just gets better and better ;)

Lay it on thick

I don't know about you, but the minute the weather got cold, my skin drastically changed. I became instantly dry, red, flakey and sometimes itchy- not a glamorous combo. I've pretty much changed my entire skincare routine to incorporate more moisture (more on that later) and I've found a hydrating face mask is an extra boost of much-needed moisture to sooth and moisturize my skin. I've personally used all of the above masks, with the exception of the H2O+ mask (I used to work for them, like a million years ago, and their products are wonderful and I'm sure this is no different).  

1. GlamGlow ThirstyMud Hydrating Treatment is a cream-gel consistency and stays on the skin for 15-20 minutes. There's a slight cooling sensation and it leaves the skin plump and malleable. I pretty much love everything this company comes out with.


2. Sephora Collection Rose Face Mask is a gauze-like sheet mask that drapes over your face for 10+ minutes. One of the best parts of this mask is that there's no rinsing required when the mask is done- just rub in any extra serum and your skin will be super soft.


3. ~H2O+ Aqualibrium Hydrating Marine Moisture Mask uses a blend of marine botanicals to moisturize the skin, but the fact that it's oil-free will appeal to even acne skin folks who are experiencing surface dehydration but don't want to risk a breakout.


4. Fresh Rose Face Mask leaves your skin glowing, dewey and chunky. Wait, what? Ok, the mask is chunky, not your actual face. Fresh uses real rose hips and petals that are suspended in a gel, so when you apply it to your face, it's like your smearing a crushed rose all over it. It's pretty amazing.


5. Korres Nectarine Velvet Moisturizing Mask really lives up to its name. My skin actually did feel velvety soft after applying this! It's a cream mask that you slather on a thick application, and 15 minutes later most of the mask had absorbed into my skin (always a good sign).


What about your skin, does it change with the seasons? Any hydrating masks you've used and loved?

risk-free gels

Gel manicures are what fake acrylic nails were to the 90's, and both have their risks. Gel manicures are touted as lasting up to two weeks and offer chip-free high shine. High-end salon brands and cheapie drugstore kits are getting in on this gel trend. Typically you need a UV light to"cure" the gel polish, giving it the staying power it needs.

Now here's where the risk comes in to play: The UV light to cure the manicure is like sticking just the tips of your fingers in a tanning bed. No thank you! Some magazines say that you can wear sunscreen on your hands to avoid UV damage, but anyone who has ever had a manicure knows how impractical that is. I just don't see how that would work... what, just after the manicurist has massaged, buffed and cleaned your nails (making them perfect for polish) you're then going to put sunscreen all over your hands to protect from UV damage? And then the manicurist will have to then remove the sunscreen from your nails to keep them clean so the polish can have a nail bed to adhere to, therefore, the sunscreen is taken off! I'm at a loss for how this is practiced in a salon, or if people even do it. I can understand why you want to protect your skin from UV damage and skin cancer, I just don't think the process is effective.

Then there's the nail peeling. Gel nail polish remover is not fun, often requiring nails to soak, at length, in Acetone. Oftentimes scraping is involved and ultimately layers of the nail are left peeling and brittle. Sounds like deja vu? Oh that's where I've heard of this before- acrylic nails!

Some brands have come out with a safer LED light but I say skip all of that and try this new breed of gel products, no lights required!

left to right: Butter London Patent Gel Top and Tails Set// Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Top and Base Coat Duo// Nails Inc. Kensington Caviar Gel Effect Plumping Top Coat// Dior Gel Coat // Guerlain Nail Lacquer Top Coat Gel 

These gels are mostly top coats (and in some cases a base coat) and will smooth the nails, add a high gloss-factor and make your typical mani last much longer- maybe not two weeks longer, but they come off with regular nail polish remover and no sunscreen required!

The Pastel Makeup Bag

Some things just scream Spring and that for me is always PASTELS! It may have something to do with those ridiculously addictive Cadbury eggs, or that nature is somehow in on the scheme; pale-hued flowers popping up everywhere and little green grass peaks it's head out of the ground. I love it all. It's wonderful that the cosmetics industry knows how to do it right when it comes to putting your best foot forward. Smoky eyes are out. Bold, bright red lips are gonzo. It's time for the baby's; baby pink and baby blue, that is.

The Pastel Makeup Bag by cobbshillcakes

1. H&M toiletry bag // 2. YSL Babydoll mascara// 3. NYX MegaShine lipgloss// 4. Butter London nail polish // 5. Tory Burch fragrance// 6. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush// 7. Too Faced Cosmetics brush// 8.  Paul Joe eyeshadow //  9. Forever 21 hair accessory

Any pastels that you're crazy about? Pink is a no-brainer for me but mint green has been high on my list lately.

the bulk of the matter: beauty products

As I mentioned in buying bulkie baking products, sometimes it's not always worth buying the larger size if that means it'll go bad before you get a chance to use it up.

In regards to beauty products, I was pleasantly surprised that brands were mostly packaging facial beauty products in a multi-pack (the exception being the jumbo-sized body washes and shampoo's). Growing up in a large family, dominated by females, my mom bought a lot of these products to avoid running out.

If there's a certain shampoo or conditioner that you love and will use, then it's worth buying the huge size. The golden rule for buying any jumbo-sized product is this: Only buy brands that you already use and like- this is not the time to experiment because if you hate it you're stuck with like 66 oz. of it. Also, only purchase jars that are 2 oz. or under. Any time you have a jar that you're dipping your fingers in day-in-and-day-out is inviting a myriad of bacteria to take up residence. So, the less time you have the product, the more effective it will be.

sunscreens in a value-pack mean instant savings and more sun protection- this is a Summer stock-up item!

Sunscreen can be expensive, especially if you follow the rules and reapply often. It's wonderful that you can buy mulit-packs of sunscreen but there's a word of caution: only buy what you know you'll use up. Sunscreen has only a year-long shelf-life before it's not effective and if it's the end of the Summer and you're about to buy 4 more bottles with Fall fast approaching, I'd reconsider. Stock up at the beginning of the Summer, and then when the season is waning, buy individual bottles to avoid throwing away any extra's.

Do you purchase any bulk beauty products? How long has it taken you to finish something?

Pinspirational beauty

If you have any involvement with Pinterest you'll understand what I'm about to say: I love to pin pins. I love the images, the idea's, the mental planning, the hope of changing something, the organization for planning something, anything! Pinterest is wonderful and amazing and a little bit overwhelming, if I'm being honest. I've been trying to pull away lately because I've just pinned and pinned and pinned and now what do I do with all of it? Most of the time I pin with a purpose: a new recipe to try, a different way to sew curtains, an activity for toddlers...  but then I have so many pins and so many boards that it's becoming a little out of control. I recently went through my older pins and found some real gems. There are things I've intended to do/try but they've just gotten lost with the new pins coming in. Here are some of my pins that are just devoted to beauty (tomorrow I'll show you my dessert pins- it's a treasure trove of good idea's!):

~ I've heard amazing things about this mask and about the brand, Eve Lom, I just need to get my hands on it!

via

~I'm really horrible at doing my own nails because I usually dent them when they're almost dry. I've been wanting to get this nail dryer for a while now since it could help my manicure last.

via

~ I've already talked about product storage here and this has inspired me to get my makeup organized and under control. Shallow drawers would be really great for makeup. This is definitely an inspiration. 

source unknown

~ Finding the perfect bubble bath products have been on my blogging to-do list for quite some time now. This is one that I've gotta try- just try to resist that gorgeous packaging!

via

~ I think Lauren Conrad's Beauty Department is a great site and I love this contour/highlight tutorial. I hope to do one on here someday, but this is just too good not to show you. 

via

So, does this seem familiar to you as well- lot's of pinning but nothing being done with the pins? Since I'm going back to my old pins it's also helping me clear out some that I'll never do or already tried and didn't have success with. It's like Spring Cleaning for Pinterest!