Many of us would like to use Alpha Hydroxy Acids but cannot tolerate using Gylcolic Acid (the most commonly used and considered one of the harsher forms of AHA’s).  So what do you do if you want the exfoliating and anti-aging benefits of using an AHA, but have sensitive skin?  I recently discovered a wonderful Gylcolic Acid alternative skincare line called NuCèlle.  Not only does it incorporate the use of the a gentler Mandelic acid AHA, NuCèlle has created a skincare line that responds beautifully with sensitive, dry, oily or acne prone skin.

The secret ingredient that will reveal your naturally beautiful skin is NuCèlle’s almond-based Mandelic Acid. Physicians have long recognized the powers of this anti-bacterial alpha-hydroxy to treat common skin problems such as photo-aging, irregular pigmentation, and acne. (more…)

I’ve been using the Barielle Deluxe Hand & Body Lotion after I take off my
nail polish, and after my nail polish is completely dried to help keep
my hands soft and supple. This has a soft, fruity scent that’s
definitely pleasing. It does an excellent job at keeping my hands
moisturized instead of dry after I remove my nail polish. My hands
feel very silky after using it. I think it absorbs quickly into my
skin, and it doesn’t leave my hands feeling greasy after use. Some
lotions will make my hands feel so greasy that I end up having to wash
them, which sort of defeats the purpose of using them.

I’ve been using the Yes to Carrots C is for Clean Gentle Exfoliating
Cleanser (more…)

One of the biggest perks of reviewing beauty products is that you receive many products from wonderful companies (I know… any beauty obsessed girl’s dream!).  Although, I often find myself saying, “Too many skincare products and not enough face to try them all.”  This is especially true when we review skincare because I like to test a line for at least a month before writing up my review.   Luckily I have acquired some trusted, smart beauty review partners!   I am very pleased to introduce you to this particular new beauty reviewer.  She is one of my closest personal friends, my sister Monique.

The Somme Institute promotes “the biggest industry breakthrough” since the introduction of Alpha Hydroxy Acids in the advancement of skin rejuvenation. Somme Institute developed a new technology in skin care called MDT5 (Molecular Dispersion Technology). This formula boasts free radical fighting anti-oxidants, allowing 5 highly engineered essential vitamins (A, B3/B5, C and E) to penetrate the inner skin layers with high concentrations of polypeptides that target specific skin cell receptors.  (more…)

The other day, Rachelle the fabulous author of Fashionably Foodie and contributor to the Posh Mama site asked a question about starting on Retin-A at the post, “All About Retinoids:  Considering Retin-A.”

jen,
so i turned the big 3-0 this summer and i am ready to do something. (guess i need to adopt marilyn’s “Start aging, and shut up!” mantra still.)  i live in mexico and can buy retin a and renova over the counter. soooo- how do i use them?  like moisturizer, after cleansing?  instead of moisturizer or over it?  how much do i use?  and do you know if i use it while i’m nursing? (guess i could google it.) TIA!

hope your beans are delish~
rachelle

First and foremost, the beans I made using the recipe that Rachelle posted on the Posh Mama site were delish, and my family totally stuffed themselves last night.  I served them with rice and homemade Pico De Gallo, very yum!

Lucky you to get Retin-A OTC! And I am not a Doctor, so I can give you some advice, but would strongly recommend you work with a licensed Dermatologist.  I have heard that the lowest concentration is where you should start (.025%) or possibly .05%, and you should research the topic of using retinoids while nursing.  I surmise that some will say okay, and some will say nay.  I tend to side with how young is your baby and how often do you nurse?  Retin-A is simply a concentrated form of Vitamin A and a minimal amount is absorbed into your bloodstream. (more…)

Every now and then you look in the mirror and feel like starting fresh. At times like these there’s only one thing you can turn to: Chemical peels. What, you expected me to say therapy and self discovery?

A typical Glycolic Acid facial in a spa can be a relaxing and refreshing experience, but there are a few drawbacks. The first is time. At 45 minutes to an hour plus transit time, you’re looking at a decent chunk of time every 2-6 months, depending on your skin and the exact results you wish to achieve. Second is the cost. At roughly $80 a piece, generally as a series of about 6 treatments, that’s a lot of fun money, at least for someone like me. If you choose to get a stronger peel from a doctor than you can expect to spend $150-$300 a session, though the length of time between sessions can be much longer, depending on your needs and results. The recovery from one of these procedures is also much more intense, often with flaking, redness, and oozing skin. Makes me want to run right out and get one, how about you? (more…)

Val is asking:

Does anyone else have problems with sunscreen breakouts?   I believe I have used almost every one from cheap to very expensive and all types and always end up with one bump that takes weeks to go away.

We all are aware that we need to wear a daily SPF on our face and neck to avoid the damaging effects of the sun.  Further more, we need to be hyper-vigilant about using sunscreen while using retinoids, or after using facial skincare products with BHA or AHA’s.   Even so, sometimes there are reasons one will hesitate using a facial sunscreen. 

Excuses I have made that justify not using a daily facial sunscreen: 

• the smell, many sunscreens have a chemical smell that really bothers me
• the feel, greasy and difficult to use with my existing makeup
• breakout factor, like Val, my skin’s sensitivity to some sunscreen creams can cause breakouts
• the shine, even a little bit of moisture can add to my already summer oily shiny skin
• sting my eyes,  don’t get a sunscreen close to your eyes or you’ll be teary all day long! (more…)

Unretouched before-and-after photos showing real results of non-surgical, cosmetic procedures and at-home skin treatments 

We followed a panel of women as they tried the latest non-surgical treatments to address their biggest skin concerns. See their before and after shots and determine which treatments might be worth your money and time.

See makeovers

My wonderfully witty friends Tyna and Stef developed a fabulous website named We Heart This.  A site described as, “a daily dose of refuge; a place where you can discuss all the things that make your heart pound.“  Helping us to discover incredible beauty items, music, recipes, fashion and so much more!

This week, they are announcing a fabulous Arcona Skincare Giveaway and on Friday, they are posting an interview with Mythbuster Beauty, where I answer the burning questions that have yet to be quenched!

Such as…

• Have you been a make up addict all your life? Do you remember an early make up buying experience that got you hooked?
• You’re going to a promising cocktail party and are carrying a little clutch purse. You can only carry Three Beauty Items with you.  List them.
• You can pick front row center seats to any concert at any point in time. Whom are you seeing?

One thing for certain is Mythbuster Beauty big hearts Tyna and Stef!!!  Be sure to check out the giveaway and interview.

So many new and wonderful beauty products are being released currently, and tarte cosmetics has announced some exciting additions to their line!

For the rest of February, we are very pleased to be giving away one of tarte’s complexion sets!  This set includes: 

ReCreate ($37) – anti-aging foundation with Wrinkle Rewind(TM) Technology, SPF 15 UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum

After discovering tarte’s smooth operator foundation (to read my review click here), I am beyond enthusiastic to hear of tarte’s newest clinically proven anti-aging foundation!

clean slate natural primer ($27)

This natural primer helps makeup stay in place longer while preventing creasing in fine lines and wrinkles. Unlike other primers, clean slate™ contains natural fruit and plant derived extracts to treat, protect, sooth and hydrate the skin.

the eraser ($19) – 4 in 1 natural concealer

Unlike other concealers that just cover the problem, the eraser contains skinvigorating™ ingredients that help treat and soothe irritated skin and blemishes. The eraser also doubles as an eyeshadow and lipstick base, creating a barrier that prevents against fading and creasing

Rules:  To enter this giveaway enter your name, email address in the contest machine box below.  One entry per person and the deadline is at midnight (EST) Sunday, March 1st, 2009.  One winner will be chosen and will be announced on Mythbuster Beauty, PRIZEY.Fetch, and contacted via email.  MBB will not share your email address with anyone, and only uses your email address to contact you if you are a winner.  This giveaway is open to residents of the USA and Canada only.  The winner will receive one tarte complexion set (eraser, clean slate, recreate), this complexion set has the retail value of $83.

You don’t have to spend half your paycheck on skincare products to stay wrinkle and pimple-free. That said, slathering household condiments on your face to avoid paying for the good stuff isn’t a smart idea either. We’ll show you which bargain products really work and when you should kick in some extra cash.

See products