skin care Tag Archives

I’m an adult-why am I still breaking out? Vichy Normaderm, help me please!

*I was sent these products for review-my thoughts are my own! Please be wary when reading blogger reviews-it is NOT a requirement to disclose whether one has received a product for review or not in Canada, but it IS good manners and ethics 🙂 *

 

I thought I was through with breakouts after I hit 30.  Fast Forward to my 40’s-Yeah, wrong.  Granted, I do get breakouts less frequently….but they still come.  When they DO come, I feel that they are more ‘severe’ than they were when I was young.  It’s a different type of breakout too. Different breakout, different approach yields different (and better) results.

Normaderm by Vichy is not a brand spanking new line.  It’s the first time I’ve used it though.  So far, I’m pretty happy! My face feels fresh, clean -and NOT tight or itchy!  WIN!IMG_3751

Deep cleansing purifying gel

Details:

Normaderm Deep Cleansing Gel with Salicylic Acid, Totarol, a new purifying ingredient, and Eperuline to regulate inflammations. Cleanses and unblocks pores deep down and immediately soothes skin. Ingredient Innovation: Together Salicylic Acid 0.5% + Totarol, a new purifying active ingredient, limit the proliferation of propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne, and thus prevent the formation of imperfections. Eperuline, a new soothing ingredient of natural origin, helps regulate inflammations. Glycyrrhizinate Acid soothes skin and helps reduce redness. In a lightly scented refreshing gel. Results: Double purifying and anti-irritant action. Dermatological Standards: Allergy tested. Soap free. Tested on sensitive skin under Dermatological control. Non-comedogenic.

How to use:

Use twice daily. Wet face, work product into a lather; massage onto face avoiding the eyes. Rinse well.

My thoughts:

Love this!  I liken the fragrance in this product to a shampoo that I used to use in the 80’s called Aquamarine (which according to one of my YouTube subscribers, you can find in Dollarama-cool!).  This product lathers well and rinses off easily.

 

Purifying pore-tighetning lotion

Details:

The intensive formula ensures clear skin with salicylic acid concentrated at 0.5%. Totarol, a new purifying ingredient , inhibits the proliferation of propionibacterium acnes, which are the bacteria responsible for acne. Eperuline, a new soothing ingredient of natural origin, regulates inflammation.  Impurities are eliminated, and the appearance of pores are reduced for a more even skin surface and a matte effect.

How to use:

Using a cotton pad, cover the entire complexion with a thin layer one to three times daily. If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day.

My thoughts:

Well, I was ‘Toner-challenged’ until recently.  I was using toner once a day (at night) maybe 3 times a week.  Um yeah, how about I’m supposed to be using it the morning AND at night and every other day.  Because I’m mid-breakout, I’m doing well with the 2x daily.  Should I experience dryness, I will use the toner once daily in the evening.

Hydrating acne-care Salicyclic Acid lotion

Details:

This lightweight, oil-free lotion is clinically proven to clear skin of acne imperfections in 7 days. In just 1 week of application, clinical results show significant reduction in inflammatory lesions by 20.10%, and reaching to a 63.92% reduction by the 4th week.

How to use:

Cleanse the skin thoroughly before applying product. Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer, one to three times daily. Because too much drying of the skin may occour, start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two or three more times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor. If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce appication to once a day or every other day.

My thoughts:

I’ve been using this in the evening.  Can’t say I hate it or love it yet, but I WILL say that I enjoy waking up to my blemishes shrinking significantly during the night.

 

I have high hopes and good vibes about the Normaderm line-and I’m going to continue using it! If you have oily skin and experience breakouts as an adult (I’d say 25+ years old types), give this a shot.

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#beautyunited Olay fresh effects Acne control scrub-another weapon in my adult acne battle!

*I was sent these products for review-my thoughts are my own! Please be wary when reading blogger reviews-it is NOT a requirement to disclose whether one has received a product for review or not in Canada, but it IS good manners and ethics 🙂 *

Ah the continuing saga of adult acne & breakouts!  I’m still going through it-even in my 40’s-something I thought I would never say! In addition to changing up my cleanser, toner, and treatment lotion, I’ve also added a scrub to the mix.  In this case, it’s the Olay Fresh Effects Acne Control Scrub.

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I’ve used Fresh Effects products before, despite being out of their ‘preferred age range’-apparently this product line is suited for the 20-somethings.  But I have been known to bend the rules and scoff at society (*gasp, no not YOU Meredith*), so I thought this would be a perfect addition to my ‘oily skin’ routine. I was also curious as to whether this product had any similarities to my beloved ‘Out of this swirled’ fresh effects scrub.

Details:

Olay Fresh Effects Acne Control Scrub Salicylic Acid Acne and Blackhead Clearing Exfoliant with mandarin orange and green tea essence is formulated with salicylic acid. It penetrates pores to eliminate most blemishes and blackheads. The exfoliating microbeads then exfoliate to clear dead skin cells that can clog pores.  Exfoliating microbeads clear up most blemishes and blackheads.

Usage:

Apparently this product CAN be used daily, even twice daily.  However, I’m using it 2-3 times a week. It does remind me of the ‘Out of this Swirled’ but I liken it to the Clean & Clear morning burst line.  You’ll see why after I show you this photo:

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Looks the same as Clean & Clear doesn’ it?  Anyway I adore this scrub and am glad to have it to use.  The exfoliating particles truly are MICRO-beads so my fear of scrubbing my skin off is gone.  The scent is pleasant and the scrub rinses off clean.

I recommend you give this a try-it’s a great product to have in your shower or on your counter top.  I use it 2-3 times a week-and when my skin is acting out, I use it everyday!  It really does work!

New products from Vichy! Idealia Eye contour and Idealia BB cream!

 

*I was sent these products for review-my thoughts are my own! Please be wary when reading blogger reviews-it is NOT a requirement to disclose whether one has received a product for review or not in Canada, but it IS good manners and ethics 🙂 *

 I’ve raved about the Idealia serum way back when….and for good reason! It’s amazing! So check out these new products from Vichy (well one is the serum 🙂 ).

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Idealia Eyes

-Corrects dark circles

-Smooths fine lines

-Reduces shadows

This product is a ‘hybrid’ product for the eye area.  The eye contour idealizer merges both eye care and make up (read: it’s tinted) with technology using ‘Double Correction’-both optical and biological.   It is a fast absorbed, light texture that is rich and hydrating with no oily residue.

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Idealia BB cream

-Illuminates

-Evens the complexion

-Moisturizes

-Smooths fine lines

-Refines skin texture

-Protects

This BB cream is formulated with  pink corrective mineral pigments to instantly extinguish the grey tone.  This conceals imperfections, evens and illuminates the complexion, and erases blemishes.  This product is enriched with Kombucha, which is an active ingredient that reduces grey tones in the complexion.

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Idealia serum

Paraben-free

-Fragrance free

-Allergy tested

-Formulated for sensitive skin

-Dermatologist tested

Refines skin texture, visibly reduces the appearance of pores, and illuminates complexion for more youthful-looking skin.
Featuring Vichy’s first behavioral molecule association, LR2412 + LHA. Inspired by the skin’s natural rejuvenation process, LR2412 accelerates skin’s repair and boosts its resistance to external aggressors. Micro-exfoliating LHA helps to stimulate renewal and reduce the appearance of surface pigmentation.

 

I’ve already had great results with the Vichy Idealia Serum, so I envision even better results with the Eye contour and BB cream!

 

Vichy Normaderm Night Detox-another weapon in my adult acne battle!

*I was sent these products for review-my thoughts are my own! Please be wary when reading blogger reviews-it is NOT a requirement to disclose whether one has received a product for review or not in Canada, but it IS good manners and ethics 🙂 *

If you’ve read my recent posts or watched me on YouTube (shameless plug), you’ll know I’ve been struggling with breakouts.  Yes, at MY AGE!!! WTH?

I want to share with you a product that I’m actually enjoying and that I feel is really contributing to my success in working with my oily skin (not against it).

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Details:

Those with oily, blemish prone skin (ME) suffer from an over production of sebum during the night. By morning, the skin can feel dirty and dull with additional blemishes. New Normaderm Night Detox targets the skin overnight by helping to control the production of sebum while purifying the skin.

Upon awakening:

  • Sebum production is controlled
  • Imperfections appear reduced
  • Pores tightened
  • Radiant complexion
  • Even skin texture
  • Skin feels clean & fres

Powerful formula yet kind to the skin. The texture is light and non greasy leaving the skin with a clean fresh sensation.

How to use:

Apply nightly to clean, dry skin. Avoid the eye contour area.

My thoughts:

I’ve been using this for 2 solid weeks (at the time of posting) and I love it!  When I wake up, my skin isn’t a complete grease pit and my blemishes DO look smaller or like they are going away.  Exactly what I want.  This product is fragranced but not heavily. It applies easily and it isn’t drying.

 

oh farleyco, oh farleyco, how I do adore thy ecotools…..

*I received these products for review*

You can have all the high end products you want……and they can sit in their pretty little boxes in your cute little IKEA storage units and plastic drawers.  As you stare at them lovingly (maybe pet them every now and again, but okay let’s not get THAT weird), remember one thing:

They won’t look awesome on your face without the right tools to get them on your face.

EcoTools & Real Techniques have come out with some *new* brushes/sponges/blenders that you need to check out.

skinperfectingbrush

I’m in love with this little gem right here-its called the Eco Tools Skin Perfecting Brush…and how interesting that it is a SUPER DUPE-R for my Dior brush, but not anywhere near the price.  It’s ideal for applying BB creams and blends them right into the skin. This product features an angled edge to easily apply product to ‘hard to reach areas of the face’ like the corners of the eye and the nose.  It is made with cruelty free bristles, has a recycled aluminum ferrule, and a sleek bamboo base.

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I also love the Pure Complexion Facial Sponge-this is a version of the konjac sponge and I have one of those and LOVED IT.  This sponge gets into your pores for a ‘better’ clean and is made of natural vegetable fibers. It softens when wet. I use it with a foaming cleanser.

These 2 tools have found their way into my regular rotation and I will happily use and repurchase them.  That’s the other BIG thing I love  about EcoTools, the price.  FYI, the Skin Perfection brush retails for $9.99 CAD and the Facial sponge is $11.99 CAD.  Not too shabby.

Find EcoTools:

at these local retailers (in Canada):

  • London Drugs
  • Select Brunet
  • Select Lawtons Drugs
  • Select Pharmasave
  • Select Uniprix
  • I’ve seen EcoTools in Walmart but have not yet seen these products there-I’ll keep checking though!

on the web

on facebook

on twitter

Drugstore products that are hitting it out of the park!

Anyone else loving the new products out from the drugstore besides me? I feel like drugstore brands have really stepped up to the plate and brought their A game.  I find myself reaching for more drugstore products than high end lately…..which I’m surprised about.  My wallet is thanking me though!

Let me know if you’ve tried any of my current favorites in the comments below. I’d love to hear your experiences with them.

 

Does Vichy lift-activ retinol HA advanced concentrate plump you up?

*I have received this product for review.  I like to state this at the beginning of the post out of respect for my readers.*

Is it just me or are there a LOT of wrinkle filler products coming out now? Or maybe it’s just that I know that I need them and THAT’s why I’m noticing them more?   Either way I’ve seen a few….this is only one of the ‘few’.  Take a look at what the website says about this product a.k.a. ‘product claims’

vichy lift activ

New generation daily wrinkle-filler treatment. The highest concentration* of Retinol. Meet our ultimate 1-2 Punch before going to extremes. Clinically tested double action Advanced Concentrate with Pure Retinol x2** + LR2412. 1. Visibly fills deep wrinkles. 2. Plumps and smoothes skin for younger looking facial expressions. This lightweight, fast-absorbing retinol serum has a velvety finish with proven efficacy on deep wrinkles.

After 10 years of research and 20 molecules screened, Vichy identifies an internationally patented pioneer technology: NEW LR2412. Combined with Pure Retinol in our highest concentration, in addition to Hyaluronic Acid, in a hydrating formula that acts on the appearance of wrinkles by helping to plump the skin and visibly fill the look of even deep lines.

I have been using Vichy Lift-activ HA advanced concentrate for about 3 weeks now.  I’m just going to give you the lowdown on it right here and right now.

If you’ve seen me on YouTube or read my blog for some time, then you will know my stance about topical products and their limits.  If you’re a new reader or subscriber, welcome!  Basically, anything you put on your face (be it cream, gel, liquid) can only do SO much.  This product is no different.  However, let me tell you what it will do.

What this product CAN do:

-Help prolong your next trip for fillers/Botox

-Temporarily diminish the appearance of fine lines

-Help improve the appearance of your skin’s texture

-Provide a temporary ‘plumping effect’ and provide hydration to applied area (when used daily)

 

What this product can NOT do:

-This product is not a substitute for dermal fillers or Botox

-Will NOT give you long lasting results like dermal fillers or Botox

 

This product absorbs quickly, and is paraben free!!!

(on a side note, it has a light fragrance-most Vichy products do)

*Also please note! If you are using a retinol product, the instructions state to not use this product in combination!*

I love using this product with my  Vichy Idealia serum.I think they complement each other quite nicely (this product is applied on top of the serum).  I do find that since Vichy products contain high concentrations of ‘effective ingredients’ such as retinol and Hyaluronic Acid (which is an ingredient in dermal fillers and is naturally made by the body. It’s a sugar), that they do produce more visible results than a product that costs less.  While the product is limited because it IS topical, if you have a great skin care routine and stay on top of your facials/microderms/peels, you will probably find this product quite helpful.  My skin feels ‘better’ when I apply this product with the serum.  My skin looks and feels refreshed.  No one is specifically stopping me to exclaim “Oh my you look so young” or anything like that but if my age comes up in conversation, people are surprised when I tell them!

I’ve read some other reviews from bloggers who did experience breakouts when using this product so despite it being for sensitive skin, you may want to try a sample first….and some people are just sensitive to retinol products overall.

This product retails for $49.50CAD so I urge you to read up on it before your purchase.

Find Vichy:

on the web

on facebook

on twitter

What do you use to plump up? Tell me in the comments below!!

Off topic, I am just itching to get to the Vichy spa….yes, I certainly am.

AR 35 treatment from Dermalogica-reveal your best looking skin!

*I am in the process of editing 2 photos for this post…stay tuned and sorry for any inconvenience*

It’s been awhile since I’ve experienced a treatment with Dermalogica.  I was excited to try out the new AR 35 treatment and it was SO GOOD that I need to tell you about it. Keep reading!

AR35 stands for Active Resurface 35 and Dermalogica states that ‘this is not a cookie cutter treatment.’  And I would have to agree…..AR35 is an advanced 45 minute resurfacing treatment that utilizes a synergy of the most active ingredients available in today’s skin care arena.

A 45 minute advanced skin exfoliation treatment with a focus on professional use only Exfoliant Accelerator 35.
• Includes customizable options
• Key benefits of Active Resurface 35:
-Visible results after one treatment
-Minimal redness/side effects post treatment
-Targets a range of skincare concerns
-Customization
-45min ideal for time sensitive clients

key ingredients include:

There’s a reason that this treatment is professional use only and you will feel that as you go through the treatment.  There is a definitely tingling and some heat (oh yeah it’s working!).  The skin therapist will determine the level of activity after a consultation and having a look at your skin. There are 3 treatment levels:

• Power Active
• Intensive Active
• Ultimate Active

After my treatment, my skin therapist (Amanda) applied an oatmeal mask to help soothe my skin. Post treatment, no intense cardio, steam rooms or saunas and you MUST use an SPF!  Thankfully, I use the SPF daily and don’t plan on using steam/sauna anytime soon.

Amanda also had a post treatment discussion with me and sent me home with some products that I promised I would use faithfully. Let’s just say I have a new ‘plan’ in terms of exfoliation and care of my skin…….

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My skin looks and feels divine.  It feels like my skin is in my 20’s again, it’s bright, soft, smooth and taut…..I haven’t experienced that in the longest time. I didn’t leave the treatment oily or greasy (which was a huge plus because I had some other appointments that day) and my face felt incredibly clean.  I’m looking forward to having this done again, perhaps in the later part of January.  It was totally worth it…..and if you have 45 minutes and want your ‘best’ skin, find a spa/salon near you that offers this treatment!

Review! Marcelle CC cream

BB, now CC! Yes it’s true-Marcelle has come out with a CC cream.  I picked this up at  my local Rexall and have used it several times.

From the box:

Infused with pure 24k gold, CC cream is a lightweight texture tinted cream that diminishes the appearance of dark spots and skin tone imperfections that can be caused by sun exposure or the aging of skin.

CC cream can replace these products from your daily routine:

Powerful moisturizer: helps protect skin from dryness and improve its appearance.

Tinted corrector: corrects skin imperfections and evens out skin tone.

Make up Base: helps hold your make-up all day.

Sunscreen: protects skin from UVA and UVB rays.

May be worn alone, or after your day cream, and/or before your usual foundation for more coverage.

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Nice box and packaging-with a pump delivery system. The CC cream itself is a tad thicker than foundation but not ‘heavy’ if that makes any sense.  Here it is on my hand:

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This is a smooth cream that applies well to skin. I used it with a primer.  Coverage is light to medium. I used a pressed powder compact with SPF to add more coverage to my t-zone where I have hyperpigmentation.  The cream has a light fragrance but nothing heavy and it doesn’t stick around.  Here’s how it looks when blended.

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Overall I do like this product quite a bit.  It provides a decent amount of coverage and feels light on the skin.  Time will tell if my dark spots diminish over time but I’m not holding my breath and not concerned about it.  This product earns a thumbs up from me and I suggest you go pick it up or at least try it at your local drugstore!

Find Marcelle:

on the web

on twitter

on facebook