OK, now that we're past the big resolutions, I want to talk about a smaller resolution I always revive around this time of year — taking care of my skin. I tend to get a bit lax about this, so in 2014, I’m trying to invest in some products that make a big difference and don’t require a lot of effort. These are my recs:
Dr. Gross Alpha Beta Peel, available at Nordstrom or SephoraThese little two-step wipes are super easy to use, even if you’re in a hurry. You throw one on your face, do whatever for two minutes, then finish with the other. After using them daily, I’ve noticed my pores look smaller and my skin looks smoother. It’s an easy add to the morning routine.
Sisley-Paris Supremya Eyes, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
OK, this stuff is pricey — $310 for a little tube at Saks — and I was lucky enough to try it through a free sample earlier this year. You only apply it at night, and it’s supposed to help with all your eye issues, including dark circles, puffiness, lack of firmness, crow’s feet and wrinkles. I didn’t want it to work, but I must admit it’s the only eye cream that’s led me to notice a difference after only about a week of use. And, the visible difference makes me more inspired to actually use it. Plus, it’s still cheaper than Botox.
Glow by Dr. Brandt Overnight Resurfacing Cream, available at Sephora
So, one of my worst traits is not removing makeup at night and not using night cream. But, as I settle into my 30s, I’m realizing I'd better try to actually do this so I don’t have to get a facelift at 35. So, at minimum, I’m really trying to wipe my makeup off with my favorite, non-irritating or funny-smelling Basis So Refreshing Facial Cleansing Cloths, and then slap some of this overnight resurfacing serum on my face. I’ve just started to use it, so final results aren’t in, but I’ve noticed I wake up with fresh, healthy looking skin — I’m actually not afraid to leave the house without makeup — and I seem to be getting fewer breakouts, plus my foundation is going on more smoothly, leading me to believe my pores are shrinking — yeah! The product says it promotes cell turnover while you sleep, making for a healthy glow by morning, and it seems to be working!
Clarisonic or Knock-off Clarisonic or Whatever, real deal at Saks or Sephora
So, I may have purchased a knock-off Clarisonic by Pretika for $39.99 at TJ Maxx, and I’m considering getting the real thing. Let’s be honest, I don’t use it daily. But, I am trying to work it in at least twice a week. I’ve found that if my skin is particularly break-out-y and I use it andMario Badesco Glycolic Foaming Cleanser (DO NOT use this cleanser every day unless you have extremely oily skin, because it will totally dry you out) about once a week, it gives me the little extra cleanse I need to keep my skin clear.
What are your skin care or fashion-related resolutions? Leave them in the comments!
