Products I Love: Skin Care #1

I have unbelievably sensitive skin. I have used many brands to control my acne and oily face (Clearasil, Clean & Clear, ProActive), all of which were okay for a while but then became extremely harsh on my skin. I’m talking rosacea, blotchy redness and chapped, tight,  dried out skin. Very uncomfortable.

So, naturally, my first post in my list of favorite products is about facial skin care. Sensitive skin and acne don’t stand a chance!

When I began having major problems with my sensitivity, it was tricky finding something to balance out the redness all over my face. Then, I found Eucerin Redness Relief.

This line is awesome! After using all three for one week, my skin had balanced out and was replenished with hydration. The cleanser is a light gel-like formula that lathers just enough, and really soothes facial breakouts. The daily moisturizer has an SPF of 15 and a green tint that offsets the red skin tone. The night cream is ultra moisturizing and cools your face. I even gave these products to my friend, who has eczema, and she loved them!

 

Next, I began using products from St. Ives for a more natural feel. Specifically, the Green Tea and Apricot Blemish Scrubs.

 

These were a wonderful choice because of their ability to clear breakouts and really smooth out the texture of my skin. They both smell great too!

 

After realizing that scrubs weren’t the best choice for an everyday cleanser, I introduced myself to Simple Skin Care, a brand for people with sensitive skin. To say I am obsessed is an understatement.

I have tried and loved multiple products: 1) I use the Smoothing Facial Scrub once or twice a week to clear my pores. 2)The Moisturizing Facial Wash is perfect for those with dry skin who need that extra added hydration. 3) There is also a Foaming Facial Wash that I would recommend to those with oilier skin, because it seemed to dry out my skin. 4) All of the facial wipe are refreshing and perfect for make-up removal(eye and face). 5) I have tried both the Hydrating Light Moisturizer and Protecting Light Moisturizer(SPF 15) and though lighter, each one smooths and moisturizes evenly. There are so many other products by this brand that I would recommend even though I have not tried them! http://www.simpleskincare.com

 

Next I want to give recognition to a brand that I do not use all of the time, but would if I weren’t so crazy about the former brand in this post 😛  Yes To is a natural, skin-type specific brand. Each product line is designated for a certain skin type. Obviously, I used the Yes To Cucumbers for my sensitive skin. The two products I used and loved were the Facial Wipes and Eye Make-Up Remover Wipes. These are the best wipes, I would even venture to say I prefer these facial wipes over the Simple Brand ones.

One last facial product that I cannot live without! Facial masks can be very stripping and harsh on sensitive skin. However, I found one that I use sparingly throughout the year. Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque clears out your clogged pores and softens facial texture. It is an extremely reasonable price for a mask that only takes 15 minutes!

 I am so excited to share my multitude of favorite brands and products! If you have any questions as to pricing or places to buy certain products feel free to send an email or comment below! YAY! Check in for my next Skin Care post where I will focus on the body!

Coconut Oil: The Moisturizer Everyone Should Be Using

At a recent meeting, I was informed of the miracle that is Coconut Oil.

Using natural products is obviously a great choice, but it is the price that deters most people, including me.

I have been a huge fan of Cocoa Butter lotion by Queen Helene, and have been using it for the past few years.

About a month ago, I decided to try out Coconut Oil. After doing some research, I learned that it is best to go with a pure version, one that says Extra Virgin or Organic on the label.

I bought a jar at Giant Eagle for around $12, from a brand called Nature’s Way.

There a lot of different kinds, so I recommend looking for the key words: Pure, Organic, Extra Virgin, Unrefined.

I am very satisfied with the results so far. When you buy a jar, the product is a solid. You can still use it this way, but here is my method: place the jar into a sink filled with warm water for 5-10 minutes until it liquifies. The reasons I prefer the liquid form are that it is easier absorbed, and I can allow it to liquify while I shower. This way it is ready to use immediately when I am finished showering.

A lot of people have written in their reviews that it is a good hair treatment as well.

Here is a link for the brand I am currently using:

http://www.naturesway.com/Products/Energy-Endurance/15659-EfaGold-Coconut-Oil.aspx

Simple as this.

I have sensitive skin, so finding the right product took a while. With acne flaring in high school and still popping up every so often, it’s been rough keeping everything in sync.

Simple Skin Care.

If you are looking for something without harsh ingredients that will soothe and smooth your skin, this is it. I started using these products last year, and instantly fell in love. 

I’ve used their scrub, towelettes, and lotion.

The scrub is exfoliating yet gentle. I use it in the shower, and on days that I don’t wash my face I use one of their Oil-Balancing Towelettes, because my face can get oily. They have 4 different kinds of facial wipes that can be used for cleansing as well as make-up removal. I use the light moisturizer for a clean, soft finish. They do have a rich moisturizer, and one with SPF as well.

My brother used my facial cleanser in the shower and ended up buying his own. He doesn’t normally use anything, but he said that because of the simplicity and non-flowery scent he liked it.

Try one of their many products, I’m sure you’ll love it! Let me know what you think!