The post Skincare Update – My Evening Regimen appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>Good morning, class!
I’ve recently had a few requests on Instagram to review my skincare routine. This curiosity likely stems from the fact that my skin is playing nice in 2018. For a few months I have been playing around with my skincare in a quest to find what really works for me. Today I would like to show you the products that I’ve been using in the evening to keep my skin hydrated and radiant.
I based my routine on the famed “10 Step Korean Skin Care Routine.” The ten steps are:
For my purposes, I have excluded and/or combined a few of these steps for my daily evening routine. Therefore, my regimen looks more like this:
As we get into the specifics, please remember that what works for me may not work for you. It is very important to research ingredients before putting them all over your face, especially if you are prone to allergies or sensitivities. I would love to answer your questions about any of these products, so feel free to ask-away in the comments!
Banila Co. Clean It Zero – This balm (or “sherbert” as it is advertised) comes in a plastic tub with a screw cap. Once applied, it melts into the skin and easily removes makeup. I have used a variety of cleansing balms over the years and I feel this is one of the best, especially since the price point isn’t exorbitant.
Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser – This is an important step because it removes all the makeup and oil residue completely from the skin. I like the Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser because it is gentle yet effective. I have experienced fewer blemishes since beginning to use this product. Please note that I did receive this cleanser in a giveaway but that has not influenced my opinion.
Pixi Glow Tonic – I am so grateful that Pixi sent this to me because A- it has my name on it and B- it is already one of my favorite products ever. Since the Glow Tonic contains glycolic acid (which exfoliates) I consider it to be my daily exfoliator and toner. I have seen a vast improvement in my complexion since beginning to use this product.
May Coop Raw Sauce – I am one of the many who did not know what essence is until maybe a month ago. My understanding is that an essence primes the skin to be able to better absorb products that follow. Raw Sauce is interesting because it has a base of maple tree sap which apparently the skin absorbs very readily. Who knew? I’m working through this adorable mini size that I purchased from Peach & Lily.
M-61 Hydraboost Serum 2.0 – I absolutely love this serum because it locks in moisture without feeling greasy at all. While the price may seem a bit extreme, a little goes a long way! I especially love how quickly this absorbs into the skin.
TBD – OK so I do apply eye cream every night, but I haven’t yet found my eye cream. I have been working through a variety of samples and will update you when I have more information.
M-61 Hydraboost Cream – Can you tell I’ve been to Blue Mercury a few times recently? This is the sister product to my favorite serum. The packaging says that it’s for “dry/mature skin types” but I would argue that this cream would do anyone good. It is not especially heavy or oily and certainly hasn’t caused me any breakouts.
I hope you found this quick rundown of my evening skincare routine helpful. As you know, I am constantly testing products so I will be sure to update you if I replace any of these steps. I will also be posting a morning regimen update as well as a special products (sheet masks, physical exfoliators, etc.) rundown soon. Thank you for reading!
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]]>The post VIIcode T2 Oxygen Eye Cream O3.0 appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
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Hello, class! This post about VIIcode T2 Oxygen Eye Cream (or, “the Second Oxygen Eye Cream”) is sponsored. That means that I have been compensated to discuss the product, but as always, all opinions are my own.
First I want to chat about VIIcode, a brand that’s been on my radar for some time. The story behind this skincare line is that in 1800, a Dr. Victor gifted a secret youth formula (the “VIIcode secret”) to the Empress Consort Joséphine. She found it so effective that she made Dr. Victor swear to keep this formula a secret for 100 years. Since then, this revolutionary product has been kept private within the Victor family.
It’s a cute story, right? And if it’s true, that’s awesome. But even if it’s not, we are talking about a super luxurious product. The VIIcode T2 Oxygen Eye Cream goes through a unique stone mortar extraction process which contributes to the reparative nature of the formula. According to the VIIcode website, the benefits of this formula are:
- Instantly feel moisturized and youthful.
- Minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Absorbs well with no residue.
The application of the VIIcode T2 Oxygen Eye Cream is a little different from that of other eye products. It is recommended that one use the uniquely engineered crescent activation strip to first massage the eye area to promote healing and regeneration. The same crescent strip can be used to apply the cream.
I received the 5.0mL size version of the product, which at first seems like very little. However, this product is so rich that you only need to use a tiny bit with each application. The product comes in a luxurious-feeling twist-top container. Additionally, the container and crescent activation strip fit into the included black pouch.
With the first use, I was amazed at how quickly the product absorbed. It leaves the under-eye area feeling soft and supple, a benefit that is still noticeable the next morning (I apply at night). After a week of use, I noticed that the fine lines under and around my eyes were less visible. My under-eye darkness had also faded slightly, especially towards the outer borders. I would not hesitate to say that this is one of the most effective products I’ve used to counter signs of aging.
The 5mL version of the VIIcode T2 Oxygen Eye Cream O3.0 that I am using retails for $99 USD. So you can see already that this isn’t a product that budget-conscious shopper might go after. However, if you are in need of an effective eye cream and are willing to invest in a high-end formula, this is the product for you! I sincerely believe that you will get your money’s worth out of this eye cream. You can shop VIIcode on their website and on Amazon. Also, check out the VIIcode Instagram!
And here’s some good news for you: VIIcode has graciously offered my readers a discount! Use code MM3SWND9 on Amazon for $5 off your next order (ends 8.31.2017).
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]]>The post It’s Detox Time with DERMA E appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
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When I was offered the opportunity to try out products from DERMA E’s line of activated charcoal skincare, I was so excited! I’ve fallen in love with many DERMA E products before, so I knew that I could expect a lot from anything they graciously sent me. Just want to throw in a little reminder – I’m always honest whether or not I buy a product myself or it’s sent to me! I did a little dance when I opened my package and found the DERMA E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub and Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask. Especially considering the timing (two weeks after the holidays), my skin was ready for a detox!
Let’s talk about the goods. The DERMA E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub is advertised as a “gentle exfoliant” that “lifts away pollutants and impurities, promoting a fresh and healthy radiance.” Since it’s called a daily scrub, I used it daily for a week to test it out. As suggested, I applied the scrub to my freshly washed face and used it to gently massage my skin for a minute before rinsing. The creamy scrub smells faintly medicinal, as many activated charcoal products do, but not unpleasant. It is “scrubby,” but not abrasive, and certainly gentle enough for my combination skin to use daily. And if I do say so myself, my skin is looking a bit more radiant these days! I will use this product until I finish it, at which point I will consider buying it.
The DERMA E Purifying 2 in 1 Charcoal Mask is advertised as a “deep detox” that “purges pores of toxins” while it gently exfoliates. So… I don’t know how to tell if my pores have been purged. That’s not a thing I ever learned in school. I can tell you that this is a very refreshing mask to wear, slightly tingly, and easy enough to wash off. I can also tell you that I used it twice and have had limited breakouts since that time. I would like to note that I found the mask to be a bit drying, but I would tend to expect that given the name. It was nothing that couldn’t be fixed with a nightly moisturizer!
Let me finish by reminding you that DERMA E is an incredibly ethically-minded company whose products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates,
petrolatum, mineral oil, artificial colors, gluten,
soy or GMOs. So, if you’re into that and you also feel like your skin could use a good detox, check out the DERMA E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub and Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask!
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]]>The post Farmacy Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
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Hello, class! If you’re in the midst of winter like I am, your skin might be feeling the effects of the cooler, dryer weather. So today I want to talk about my new favorite mask that is perfect for a cold day. We are talking about the Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration mask from Farmacy Beauty. As always, I must share with you that Farmacy was kind enough to gift me this product, and though they asked for nothing in return, I like it so much that I want to discuss it with you!
The Honey Potion mask, which, by the way, is available at Sephora, is supposed to hyrdate the skin and promote a younger appearance.
It features an intensely moisturizing combination of honey (a natural humectant used since ancient times), propolis (antiseptic found in beehives), and amino acid-rich royal jelly. Echinacea GreenEnvy is a unique variant of echinacea purpurea, which contains the highest known concentration of the phytochemical cichoric acid—a potent, natural antioxidant that enhances hydration and the purifying benefits of honey. The balm gently warms and transforms into a rich cream as it’s massaged into the skin for an indulgent experience.
The Honey Potion mask comes in a cute little (not really little… it’s 4.1oz. of product…) jar with a magnetic cap. This is important because the product also comes with a metal applicator that can sit on the lid when not in use. The mask itself is a thick, gooey cream that is best scooped out with the metal applicator. I like to apply it in globs to my face which I then spread with my fingers. Once you have a nice thick layer, massaging the Honey Potion into the skin creates a warming reaction. I like to let the mask sit and warm my face for about 15 minutes before rinsing it with cool water.
Now, you might be thinking – isn’t this really messy to remove? The answer is no. Because the one thing I remember from chemistry is that honey is water soluble. OK, maybe that’s not the only thing I remember, but it’s probably the most important thing I remember. Anyway, that means that water breaks honey down very easily, so the Honey Potion mask is not sticky when you try to remove it.
I’ve been using the Honey Potion mask all winter and I love the way my skin looks and feels post-application. I also just love having the mask on my face. The warming reaction is both refreshing and energizing.
Anyway, keep the Farmacy Honey Potion mask in mind if you are in the market for a new skin product! And let me know if you’ve tried it!
More from Farmacy:
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]]>The post DIY Sweet Coffee Mask appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>Good morning, class! Today we are having some fun with food – that is, we are using all edible ingredients to make a skincare coffee mask! I recommend this recipe for those with acne-prone or oily skin. I have another version for dry skin that will be coming soon!
Before we go forward, let me remind you that I have no dermatology background. Where possible, I’ve linked to websites that support my claims, though you may wish to do further research if you have specific sensitivities or allergies. I can attest to the fact that I’ve used myself as a test animal for this recipe!
We are going to call today’s mask the Sweet Coffee Mask because its main components are ground coffee and honey (yum!) This is a wonderful opportunity to use the coffee remnants in your filter or even what’s left over in your used K Cup, as I did.
Let’s talk about the ingredients and some of their benefits –
ground coffee – Caffiene, which is a diuretic, can dehydrate skin cells and make the skin appear smoother. It has been shown to help reduce puffy under-eyes and dark circles, especially (source). Additionally, the ground coffee in this recipe exfoliates when you wash your face!
honey – Honey has anti-acne properties, so any blemishes you have may appear less red and reduced in size. Honey also contains a chemical exfoliant and has moisturizing properties (source).
cocoa powder – Most importantly, it will make the mask smell fantastic! Furthermore, the fine powder can contribute to keeping your skin clear and hydrated with regular use (source).
cinnamon – Cinnamon encourages blood to come to the surface of the skin, resulting in a firmer appearance. Please note that cinnamon can be irritating, so if you have sensitive skin, just leave this out!
I’m not going to give you specific measurements, because I never measure anything. Basically, I empty the K Cup into a bowl, then add a dash of cinnamon and a scoop of cocoa powder. I top this with enough honey to form a paste.
Apply the mixture to your face, and allow it to sit for a little while – for me, it was the extent of writing this post, so about 30 minutes!
I like to remove this mask in the shower. Use a gentle hand, because the coffee will be very scrubby! Also, you can use any mixture you have left over to exfoliate your body!
While this may feel a bit more time-consuming than a store-bought mask, keep in mind that this treatment is completely edible (though you probably shouldn’t eat it) and natural. It also smells really good. Because of the exfoliation, I’d recommend using this no more than twice a week.
Thanks for reading! If you like DIY beauty like this, let me know so I can be sure to do more similar posts!
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]]>The post Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>Good morning, class! Today we are looking at a product that I was provided for free, through Brand Backer, in exchange for my honest review. More specifically, we are talking about the Exuviance Performance Peel AP25.
The Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 is a Glycolic Acid Peel that is made to be safe and easy to use at home. It contains a 25% AHA/PHA blend that includes Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid and Gluconolactone. I’m just going to assume that I’ve spelled those words correctly. Anyway…these ingredients exfoliate dead, dull surface layers and encourage the process of cell renewal to reveal healthier cells (and consequently, healthier skin!)
The Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 comes with 12 treatments, plus one test treatment. Since Exuviance recommends that the treatments be used twice weekly, this is a six week course of peels. As I mentioned, this peel is incredibly easy to use. After cleansing, you apply an “activator pad” all over your face. The worst part of this step is the smell. Luckily, the unpleasant odor does not last. You let the Activator Solution sit on your face for ten minutes (less if you feel discomfort) and then apply the Neutralizer Pad and rinse with water.
I made sure I had two weeks to work with the Exuviance Performance Peel before writing my review. I figured this would be an appropriate time frame in which I might begin to see some results. As you know, my concerns are less about fine lines and more about evenness of skin tone and smoothness of skin.
If you were going to see results, you’d see them on my cheeks. I have some discoloration from acne, so this is the perfect place to monitor.
OK, so I’m not convinced that the photos do the results justice. I honestly feel that the overall appearance of my skin is much more even and bright after using this peel for two weeks. Unfortunately, my awesome results have been marred by an incredibly unusual breakout. I do not believe that the blemishes are related to this treatment, but nonetheless, they make it hard to get a good photo! All in all, I would highly recommend this peel if you are looking for an easy-to-use treatment that yields quick results.
The Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 is available at the Exuviance website and retails for $77. So if you’re ready to take the #peelchallenge, head over!
I will be sure to do a little update once I finish the course of twelve treatments. In the meantime, please let me know your favorite skin remedies, peels and treatments in the comments!
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]]>The post DERMA E: New Packaging, Same Great Products! appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
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Hello, class! I am so honored to have been asked by DERMA E to help spread the word about their new packaging. As you probably know, DERMA E is a skincare brand devoted to healthy and ethical beauty. According to some information I received:
Since 1984, our passion for health, wellness and
environmental sustainability has grown strong.
We have high ethical standards and never
compromise on skin health and safety. Our
100% vegan, cruelty-free formulas do not
contain parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates,
petrolatum, mineral oil, artificial colors, gluten,
soy or GMOs. Now that’s honest-to-goodness
skin care.
DERMA E is rolling out a new packaging for their products, one I happen to love! Their new look features the lotus, which represents beauty and efficacy. I also feel like the new packaging is much more chic and high-end looking than the old packaging (win!)
DERMA E gifted me two products to try – one is the Hydrating Day Cream in the old packaging, and the other is the Hydrating New Cream in the new packaging. I can attest to the fact that both of these are amazing products (the day cream absorbs so quickly- it’s amazing!) However, as I’ve said already, I much prefer the new packaging and I’m excited to see their whole line with this look.
I bet you’re wondering- where can I get my hands on DERMA E? Well, let me tell you. Some of the bigger beauty stores you’ll recognize are Target, Ulta, CVS and Walgreens. But also be sure to check out the beauty aisles of Whole Foods, Sprouts and Bristol Farms. Of course, you could also head to DERMA E’s website for all of your skincare needs.
The Hydrating Day Cream and Hydrating Night Cream are quickly becoming some of my favorite products. I can’t wait to play with some more DERMA E goodies!
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]]>The post ARK Skincare appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>Hello, class! Today I’m talking about an amazing line of products that I had the privilege of testing thanks to BrandBacker. Remember that this means I received the products for free in exchange for my honest review. The brand in question is Ark Skincare. For those unfamiliar with Ark Skincare, here is a snippet of information taken from their webpage:
Beautiful skin at every age
ARK Skincare is a British skincare brand, which treats skin by age and skin concern. Created for use in our London Spa, ARK Skincare products deliver professional, salon grade results using the most innovative natural formulations. The result is a highly effective personalized skincare regime for every individual.
Why treat skin by age?
There are two main transition periods in the aging process where there is a dramatic shift in hormone production and a significant change in the way the body functions: late 20s to early 30s and late 50s to early 60s. ARK has looked at the skin externally and internally during these periods, to create three age-specific product ranges, which support skin with the optimum level of nourishment and skin-perfecting ingredients.
I was sent two products to test out- the ARK Age Defend Replenishing Moisturizer and the ARK Hydration Injection Masque.
ARK’s Age Defend Replenishing Moisturizer is formulated for those in their 30’s and 40’s and is focused on retaining moisture and diminishing signs of premature aging. It is meant to be used morning and evening and comes in a really luxurious feeling container.
I am very picky about my moisturizers, especially those meant to be worn under makeup. I was surprisingly pleased with the Age Defend Replenishing Moisturizer! It is thick but yet quickly absorbed and does not contribute to any oiliness throughout the day. I even used it over a rough patch on my cheek (a healing zit, if we want to get real) and it helped my makeup go on incredibly smoothly.
The Hydration Injection Masque is formulated for all ages, though it is meant to be worn for different amounts of time for each age bracket. For those in their 30’s and 40’s, the mask should be left on for about 10 minutes once or twice a week and then removed with a warm cloth. The Hydration Injection Masque contains ingredients that help soothe irritation, retain moisture and restore vibrancy.
Again, I am usually pretty skeptical of the grand claims of skin products. However, the ARK Hydration Injection Masque delivered. I am not lying when I say that the mornings after I used this mask my skin looked amazing. I felt like I looked refreshed (even when I slept poorly) and my skin felt so soft.
Both products I tried retail for $70 USD. This puts ARK Skincare in the “luxury” range. I think what makes them unique is their age-specific targeting, so if you are in the market for new skincare, I’d check out ARK.
I liked these products so much that I’m considering trying the other two skincare products in the 30’s-40’s range. So… if anyone from ARK Skincare happens to be reading this… let’s talk.
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]]>The post Farmacy: Perennial Picks Discovery Kit appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>The Perennial Picks Skincare Discovery Kit contains:
INVINCIBLE Root Cell Anti-Aging Serum 0.27 fl. oz | 8 ml
SLEEP TIGHT Renewing Night Treatment 0.5 fl. oz | 15 ml
RISE ‘N SHINE Daily Moisture Lock o.5 fl. oz. | 15 ml
NEW DAY Gentle Cleansing Grains | 1.4 oz. | 40 g
According to Farmacy,
A unique patent-protected variant of Echinacea Purpurea, GreenEnvy contains the highest known concentration of the phytochemical Cichoric Acid, a potent natural antioxidant which helps protect and firm the skin by inhibiting the enzymes that break down collagen. Cichoric Acid also normalizes the skin pigmentation process to promote a more evenly toned complexion.
I tried these products for a week, using the following routine:
In the morning I cleansed with water and applied the Rise ‘n’ Shine Daily Moisture Lock.
In the evening I cleansed with the New Day Gentle Cleansing Grains. I applied a small amount of the Invincible Root Cell Anti-Aging Serum and let it sink it. Then, before bed, I applied the Sleep Tight Renewing Night Treatment.
First of all, I love the packaging on these items. Everything feels clean and simple. Additionally, none of the products has an overwhelming fragrance, which is a huge thumbs-up in my book.
I tend not to like products that involving mixing a grain with water to cleanse. I typically get pieces in my eyes, which is uncomfortable to say the least. However, the New Day Gentle Cleansing Grains are finely ground enough where this was never a problem for me. This product left my skin soft and clean.
The serum and night treatment are also amazing products. I kept touching my face before bed because it just felt so soft.
My least favorite item in the Perennial Picks Discovery Kit is the Rise ‘n’ Shine Daily Moisture Lock. I prefer a product that sinks into the skin a bit quicker. I also try to use products in the morning that have SPF in them, and this has none.
Overall, this is a fantastic kit if you are looking to try out Farmacy. I will be adding some more Farmacy products to my “must try” list, including their Skin Dew setting spray and their various hydrating coconut gel masks!
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]]>The post Glossier: First Impressions appeared first on This teacher wears makeup..
]]>[contains affiliate links] Hello, class! Recently, a colleague expressed to me how much she was loving products from Glossier. In case you haven’t heard about this company, Glossier is a beauty line with an aesthetic of natural, glowing skin. While they sell many of their products individually, they also have these really cute combo packages called Phase 1 and Phase 2.
Phase 1 is Glossier’s skincare set. It includes their Milky Jelly Cleanser, Priming Moisturizer, Balm Dotcom and Perfecting Skin Tint (in your desired shade). The Glossier Phase 2 set is more makeup-oriented. It includes their Boy Brow (brow gel), Stretch Concealer and Generation G lip tint. All of the Phase 2 products have shade options.
Sadly, my shade of Skin Tint has been out-of-stock for a while now, as have all of the shades of Generation G. So trying out these kits were out of the question. Therefore, I made some à la carte selections, including some items not included in Phase 1 or Phase 2.
My newest crush is the Milky Jelly Cleanser. It is a crazy gentle cleansing gel that manages to scrub off makeup without drying the skin. I also kind of love the Soothing Face Mist. I feel super luxurious when I spray it on my face after cleansing.
The Priming Moisturizer is a fantastic combination of lotion and primer. I apply it before my makeup and it works just as well as high-end primers. The Boy Brow, which I got in the Blond shade, is a great brow gel. Since I am a pomade enthusiast, this will probably never reach “holy grail” status for me, but I do like it for more natural makeup days.
Finally, I’ve been using two flavored Balm Dotcoms – Rose and Coconut. These have become my go-to for pre-bed lip moisturizing. The coconut is positively yummy and the rose just makes me happy.
I guess my whole point here is that Glossier has products that are worth trying if you’re looking for simple and clean cosmetics.
Also, I should mention that if you are going to shop you can get 20% off by clicking right here. Just sayin’.
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