Summer is going to be here before we know it! Time stock up on essentials now so when beach/cottage weather arrives, we are well prepped. Continue reading SUMMER BEAUTY ESSENTIALS
Tag Archives: clarisonic
MY SKINCARE // SPRING 2015
Well, if you had asked me not too long ago what I had been using for skincare, the list would have been super long. Continue reading MY SKINCARE // SPRING 2015
TONER TALK // PART TWO: EXFOLIATING TONERS
Sometimes, in the skincare world, all it feels like anybody talks about is exfoliating–scrubs, brushes, toners, masks, moistruizers, serums, etc.etc. the list goes on and on.
I’m a huge fan of exfoliation, but over-exfoliation is dangerous territory. Skin can become red, raw, inflamed, and thin which makes skin more sensitive to touch and the sun.
It can be hard to restrain yourself from too much exfoliating–who doesn’t want baby smooth, soft skin every time they wash their face? Exfoliation is necessary, but we must be careful what we’re doing it with and how often.
If you are using several different treatments on your skin, i.e. serums, toners, moisturizers, retinol, acids, etc., then it is important to make sure that what you’re using doesn’t cancel out another product’s function. I, myself, am now using a doctor-prescribed retinol at nights on my face (for acne), so I need to make sure that I’m not combining retinol with glycolic acids, because glycolic will actually render the powers of retinol redundant.
As of right now, my exfoliating includes using my Clarisonic in the morning, followed by Clarins Gentle Exfolliator which contains a small amount of glycolic acid.
At night, I simply just double cleanse, apply my retinol and eye cream, wait an hour (to let the retinol sink in), then apply moisturizer. Retinol on its own will resurface the face, and can cause some flaking or peeling, so it is important to be gentle with the skin when using this ingredient. Once or twice a week I may do a scrub (Exfolikate, which yes, contains glycolic, however, I rinse off the scrub so it doesn’t matter) if my pores are feeling congested, and one night a week I might use Alpha H’s Liquid Gold.
So here we are finally. Onto the review of my two toners.
Clarins Gentle Exfoliator: This is a great introductory toner for someone who is nervous about using acids. It is so gentle, no burning or stinging, and has a lovely slightly thick feel to it. Less watery, more lotion. Lovely.
Alpha H Liquid Gold: This is a much stronger exfoliator, at about 5% of acid. I use this totally alone at nighttime. I know. So boring and plain, right? But, by excluding any extra serums or moisturizers, it allows the acid to work, uninterruptedly. Don’t worry, your face may feel slightly dry at first, but the feeling goes away. It can be used under a moisturizer, but I prefer to let it work to its full potential.
Who knows–this still may be considered as too much exfoliating for one person, but I really feel like my pores get congested easily, and this formula helps to keep breakouts at bay and my skin smooth.
As always, please remember: If you are using any products at all that contain any acids or retinol, you MUST use a sunscreen. Your skin becomes more photosensitive from these products and any anti-aging/scar or dark spot diminishing you were hoping to accomplish will be all for naught if you don’t wear a sunscreen.
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VANITY PICKS // SAM AND CAILLI BECKERMAN
Here’s what the super cute fashion queens use to get their signature look: porcelain skin, a bold cat eye and a bright lip.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS // WIN A CLARISONIC! AND THE WINNER IS…
HAPPY HOLIDAYS // WIN A CLARISONIC!
2013 has been a great year for VP, and since we’re getting into the Christmas spirit, we wanted to do something nice for all of our wonderful readers to thank you!
We have a Clarisonic Aria Sonic Cleansing System (value of $225) to give to one of you! All you need to do to enter is Like our Facebook page.
The Aria is Clarisonic’s newest cleansing brush with 3 different speeds and an adjustable T-timer. The device cleans 6 times better than with hands alone. All it takes is 60 seconds to transform your skin.
Amanda loves using her Clarisonic a few nights a week to kick the exfoliation up a notch and get a deep clean.
Good luck to you all!
Amanda & Anna
P.S. Bonus entries to those who follow us on our Twitter, Instagram (Amanda & Anna) or Pinterest accounts as well!
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT // AGING SKIN
One thing that most women want to avoid is an aging face. We’ve heard from many readers who feel clueless on what products to use, when to start using anti-aging products and most of all–how to get rid of lines.
To answer your questions, we spoke with Dr. Sheetal Sapra, Dermatologist at the Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery in Oakville. He is a leader in the field of dermatology and a pioneer of new technologies.
Just so you know: We are in no way promoting plastic surgery to you, this is just Dr. Sapra’s honest opinion about fixing lines/puffy eyes whatever (there are things that lotions and potions just can’t fix). He’s giving it to you straight. If he is mentioning those as solutions, then it’s not because you should do it, it’s just because he’s being realistic. There isn’t a magic cream out there that will fix everything. Aging happens naturally, and of course, you should be encouraged to do that exactly as it is. Let you do you! But for those of us who want a little help, we’ve got the answers for you.
What order do I put my skincare products on (i.e. serum, eye cream, moisturizer, acne products, etc.)?
It definitely depends on what products you’re using. However, the general rule-of-thumb would be to apply any active acne products first; followed by any serums you’re using. The only exception would be if you’re using a topical Vitamin C serum, in which case you’d want to use this first. Next apply your eye cream. Finish up by using a quality moisturizer with sunscreen in it. If you choose to use them separately use your moisturizer first.
How many products is too many products?
How can I reduce/get rid of the lines around my mouth and forehead?
Unfortunately these lines are typically caused by movement and cannot be easily addressed by topical skincare. However, Botox can be used effectively on the forehead to soften these lines. Treatments such as resurfacing, fillers and/or Botox can help to soften the lines around the mouth as well.
What SPF should everyone be using?
Everyone should be using at least a minimum of 15 SPF, but I will usually recommend at least a 30.
What can women do to prevent wrinkles?
The most important thing is definitely using an effective sunscreen. Even if you’ve done damage to your skin in the past, it’s never too late to start. You can prevent further damage and improve the skin’s tone and texture. I also recommend treatments such as Botox which will soften the movement and ultimately reduce and prevent future wrinkles from developing.
At what age should you start using anti-aging products?
What anti-aging ingredients are most effective?
What ingredients should we avoid (harmful/too abrasive)?
Are Botox/fillers effective/safe? Would you recommend it?
What is your opinion on facials? Should women get them? How often?
Do high end products make a difference?
What are the most common skincare mistakes mature women make?
Are there any non-invasive procedures to lift the eyelid?
The main takeaways:
-Use an SPF from birth, and always use a minimum SPF 30.
-Choose active ingredients for results (Vitamin C, Vitamin A/Retinol, AHAs, Glycolic Acid)
-Just because products are expensive, doesn’t mean they always work
-Creams and serums cannot fix everything.