I have a fun post for you today – packed with beauty recommendations! Not mine, but those of an expert: Skincare Health Consultant Anna Lise Jensen. Anna Lise is a fellow Davidson College graduate and is the founder of The Complexion Concierge, which offers consultations to guild clients to finding complete skin health. Anna Lise doesn’t have a product line or an incentive for you to buy anything – she simply wants to use her expertise as an esthetician with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry to help clients find the best routine and products for their own skin {read more here!}
Anna Lise approached me about a guest post and we thought it would be fun to show how one of her consultations goes. I was more than happy to be the subject : )
I wrote about my beauty routine in this post last year, and I have only slightly changed some of my products. Here are the items I am currently using that I reported to Anna Lise. Normally this is a Skype/Google Hangout, but we did questionnaire format due to my limited time as a mom.
Cleansers
Ole Henrickson Truth to go wipes
Moisture + Sunscreen
DDF Lite Moisturizing Dew (sample in my gym bag)
Dior Capture Totale Crème (at home)
Dior Capture Totale Eyes Essential (at night)
Coola Classic Face SPF 30 (sunscreen)
Make-up
Supergoop SPF 35 Daily Correct CC Cream
Covergirl Shadow in Tapestry Taupe
Covergirl’s Natureluxe Mousse mascara
I also included any skin concerns (aging, mostly), my routine (listed above) as well as my goals for skincare (simplicity) and budget (low for everything but moisture/aging products).
Within a few days Anna Lise sent me a document back, packed with information. These products are all tailored to me, although they would certainly be good options for anyone. The following is just a portion of the information she prepared for me – there was also more on make-up (she gave my makeup a thumbs up for the most part) and a few more recommendations for optional skincare products to add if I wanted more down the road. 
Hi Kath! Here is my assessment of your products and my personalized recommendations for you.
I always like to give 3-4 options for products so you have the option of research, choice and trial and error. Everybody and Every Body is different, and I want to empower you to make informed choices.
For you I aimed for SIMPLICITY. We don’t want to add too many details, but I do want you to get a bang for your buck. Also, because I know that you are health conscious—though you didn’t mention it—I cross referenced everything with PETAs approval for animal testing and leaned towards natural/organic when possible. (Products with an * are not PETA approved). Read more about PETAs standards for Beauty without Bunnies here.
A note on fragrance: Fragrance is Enemy #1 when it comes to effective skincare. However, some fragrances are less offensive than others, and at times we can get away with it. I veered towards fragrance free because it is best for overall skin health.
Always hold on to receipts and boxes, just in case. Finding a routine you like is a marathon, not a sprint. It is always smart to double-check with the store when checking out, just to make sure everyone is on the same page with return/exchange policy.
SKINCARE
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Cleanser
I know you have a personal connection, both historically and emotionally to Noxzema, so I am sad to say that I would recommend discretion with further use. The scent is made up of menthol, camphor and eucalyptus oil which are all irritants. The Alba cleanser is a fine cleanser for a drier skin type, and the fragrance in it is minimal. I would recommend caution when using around the eyes, as it could irritate. I made some suggestions of similar price-pointed Cleansers to try when you run out of the Alba cleanser, if you are interested.
Re: Cleansing Wipes, the Ole Hendrickson is a major offender of the fragrance rule, as fragrance is the first ingredient. The irritation level is so high, I would recommend something gentler. For such a high price point, I’d rather save money for fun stuff, not things that wash down the drain! There are some amazing wipes at the drugstore level (though sadly none of them are PETA approved).
Cleansers
The Body Shop Aloe Calming Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, $14.50/6.75 fl oz
The Body Shop Aloe Calming Facial Wash for Sensitive Skin, $16,/4.20 fl oz
Trader Joe’s Nourish All-in-One Facial Cleanser, $6/8.45 fl oz
Yes To Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser, $9/6 fl oz (there is a subtle fragrance that I’m sure you’ll like!)
Wipes
Olay 4-in-1 Daily Facial Cloths, Sensitive*, $7 for 33 wipes ($0.21/wipe)
Boots Expert Sensitive Cleansing and Toning Wipes* ($5 for 30 wipes, $0.17/ wipe)
Lumene Sensitive Touch Cleansing Wipes* ($3 for 10 wipes, $0.30/wipe)
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AHA/BHA Product
We will discuss what an AHA/BHA product does, but for now suffice it to say it’s important! Again, I want to make your life as easy as possible, so I am using the AHA/BHA product for your routine as a once a week treatment overnight, and working towards using more than once a week, as your skin adjusts. I am leaning towards the MD Formulations as it has both AHA and BHA.
Olay Regenerist Night Resurfacing Elixir*, $26/1.7 fl oz
Paula’s Choice Resist Weekly Resurfacing Treatment with 10% AHA, $30/2 fl oz
MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus, $50/1.7 fl oz
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Serum
All in all the most important thing for our skin in sunscreen and the second most important is antioxidants (just like in the foods we eat!). I would recommend adding a serum, but again, it would be at your discretion and time/fuss ratio.
Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum Fragrance-Free* ($24 for 1.7 fl oz)
Paula’s Choice Resist Ultra-Light Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum ($30 for 1 fl oz)
M.A.C. Prep + Prime Skin Brightening Serum* ($40 for 1 oz)
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Hydra-Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $95/1 fl oz
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Moisturizer SPF (day)
All I ask of you is wearing an SPF like it’s your job. First off, I am so glad that you introduced me to the Supergoop CC Cream, a product that with which I was unfamiliar. When I encounter a new product my first step is to double-check the ingredient deck, and this one was absolutely perfect, all until the second to last ingredient: Methylisothiazolinone (a preservative commonly used in products that rinse-away, such as cleansers or shampoos). It is safe in small amounts (second to last in an ingredient deck should be fine!), but just keep an eye out for sensitivity. It is odd that they used it in a product that lives on the skin instead of rinsing off.
We absolutely need to add a consistent moisturizer with an SPF for the day as it is the #1 best thing we can do for our skin! The DDF product in your gym bag is actually a good product, though do you find you get enough moisture from it? Personally I think for $25/oz we could do better! The user error in sunscreen is mostly not applying enough, so high price points can discourage proper use. The cheaper the better, in my opinion! So let’s get cheap and good for skin too!
Kiss My Face Face + Neck Face Factor 30 Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $13/2 fl oz ($6.50 per ounce! This is one of my personal favorites, and I use it often for outdoor runs too, since the price point is so affordable and I can really slather it on comfortably!)
Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Moisture SPF 30*, $19/1 fl oz
Kate Somerville Serum Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+, $45/2 fl oz
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Night Cream
There are a handful of moisturizers in the Dior Capture Totale line (Haute Nutrition Rich Creme, Multi-Perfection Creme and Night Ritual Intensive), all of which cost around $80+ per ounce. The fragrance in them is cause for concern, but in addition these are all packaged in jars. As a smart Davidson girl, you know that anything that is antioxidant rich (which these moisturizers claim to be) becomes oxidized any time it is exposed to oxygen. Jar packaging renders great ingredients worthless. It’s almost like driving a car off the lot—it is no longer as effective as the day you bought it. For that reason alone I would recommend a new investment in night cream.
Arbonne Calm and Gentle Daily Moisturizer, $36/4 fl oz (I consider anything without an SPF a night time moisturizer—this is a little thick, be careful of breakouts!)
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Age Erase Moisture With Mega 10 for Face, $48/1.7 fl oz
MD Formulations Moisture Defense Antioxidant Hydrating Gel, $45/1 fl oz (this is very light weight, which could be a pro or a con!)
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Eye Cream
Your body doesn’t need a “separate” eye cream, and serum is just code for lightweight eye cream. The Dior eye treatment contains a high amount of fragrance, which can cause chronic irritation. Even though you may not notice it, the skin is in mild crisis mode on a daily basis, which can damage collagen production, dryness and impair the skins ability to heal. Basically using an eye product with fragrance is spending a lot of money on a product that is worsening the skin around the eye on a long-term basis.
However, it is good to use something highly moisturizing and emollient around the eye, especially at night. I personally use a hydrating facial mask every night around my eyes. I like this option because it isn’t exorbitantly priced, though I would consider it a luxury option, because any of the above products could be used around the eye as well.
Borage Dry Skin Therapy Eye Cream, ShiKai, $16 (.5oz)
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My report also included a handful of make-up recommendations, generally some mineral options to try that are cheaper but just as good and some natural-ish mascaras. Otherwise she said my products looked good!
The next week we had a Google Hangout chat so we could meet face to face and go over any questions I had. Anna Lise explained to me what the AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) was for and answered my questions about fragrance (it’s still bad even if you don’t feel irritated –darn!)
I really appreciated Anna Lise’s honestly and experience and despite the fact that I LOVE the way Capture Total smells and feels, I’ll probably look for something different next time I’m ready to buy. I told her I was tempted to throw away/donate/sell anything I was using that she didn’t give her approval on, but she said I shouldn’t feel pressure to go out and buy all new products. This is more about gaining knowledge moving forward than a dramatic overhaul of cosmetics.
I absolutely loved this consultation and would recommend it to anyone who feels lost in the beauty industry or uncomfortable in their own skin. If you are interested in one of your own, here’s a link to The Complexion Concierge’s consultation options.
Giveaway!
Here’s a chance to win your own consultation with Anna Lise. Leave a comment with your favorite beauty product (and be sure to let me know in the Rafflecopter box), Tweet the giveaway or enter by email. Good luck!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Many thanks!
What a great service!
I am a simple girl with my beauty products. I wash my face everyday with Cetaphil.
I’ve been loving Neutrogena grapefruit acne face wash 🙂
my favorite beauty product is murad’s oil free mattifier!
Ugh. I so need something like this. My skin has changed COMPLETELY since having a baby. It is both more sensitive and I break out a lot more. I’ve never been much of a skin care routine or makeup girl, but something is obviously not working anymore that used to be fine. Across the years, Neutrogena’s oil-free, fragrance-free daily moisturizer with SPF 30 has been my preferred moisturizer (though who knows if that’s what’s causing problems now or not?!).
Jen! You should sign up for a complimentary consultation (you can access that linked here: http://www.complexionconcierge.com/#!contact/c21z4). Neutrogena has some wonderful moisturizers (and some not so great one too!). I bet there’s some small tweaks to make big results!
What a great service! Finding a skincare routine that I feel good about has been a struggle for me my entire adult life…I need this! 🙂
Carrie I’d love to help you create a routine for your lifestyle and budget! Check out my schedule for a free consultation if you’re curious to learn more!
Fun post! I love Aveda green science eye cream! Would love a consult to see how I am doing across the board.
Nicole! Wanna hear the good news or the bad news first? I’m proud of you for taking the extra time and care for your eyes, and so glad you’re loving your eye cream, but it’s not great packaging and so expensive! If you’re curious to find a more antioxidant stable and much cheaper option, let me know! Fingers crossed for the raffle!
I’ve slowly shifted my beauty regimen and now use Juice Organics products almost exclusively–they make cleansers, moisturizers, make up, and even hair care products! I highly recommend them.
I really enjoyed this. I feel strongly about not using products that include toxins so I liked that portion.
I would love to have this consultation. I am super fair skinned and have already had lots of moles removed. But I’m also a no fuss girl like you, Kath so this information is super helpful of how to get the best bang for the buck!
Kat, I hope you win a full consultation, but feel free to sign up for a complimentary 30 minute check-up if you want some quick thoughts! Moles aren’t necessarily bad, but good for you for being on top of the and getting checked out regularly! Us fair-skinned girls have to be extra careful!
I love the Neutrogena SPF moisturizer!
This was so helpful and interesting!
My favorite beauty product is my night cream by neocutis- wonder what she would say about this one!
Hi Kellie! I have never tried Neucutis, so I can’t speak from experience, but reading the ingredient deck is interesting! Lots of emulsifiers and thickeners and silicones, I imagine it has a really luxurious texture! For the most part, the ingredients are good, not great. The PSP ingredient is trademarked, which means that legally we can’t know what it is! So who knows whether that works as well as they claim. BUT the last two are possible cause for concern: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone are both preservatives that are known for causing skin irritation. It would be something to look out for. Personally, the price point seems hi to me, so if you’re curious on some more affordable recommendations, let me know! –alj
My favorite beauty product is probably any number of items from my Bobbi Brown makeup. I love everything of hers that I own!
I love dior under eye concealer!
I love Alba Even Advanced Sea Plus Renewal Night Cream – it is the best!!!
I am obsessed with Origins’ Drink Up Intensive overnight mask. I hate how dry my skin gets in the winter, and this has been a godsend. Great on dry cuticles/hands too!
I’m a big fan of Murad products. I use the cleanser and toner daily and have noticed a big difference in my skin.
What an amazing service!
My favourite product right now is Korres Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial.
Thanks, Samantha! Let me know if Aussi Belle wants to do a similar post! Love to talk about skincare down under! (that sounds kinda scandalous!) –alj
This was such a helpful post. I have a newborn at home and have been seriously slacking in my skincare. I use the Burts Bees moisturizer and I wonder if there is fragrance in it. I hope to win the consult but if not I am thinking of scheduling a skin consult with Anna Lise. Thanks for this super helpful post 🙂
Congrats on your new wonderful baby! I can’t wait to meet you and hear all about your new addition and your skin! -alj
My skincare regime is basically non-existent at the moment. I need some tips!
I don’t really have a skin care routine which is why I could really use the help. As for a favorite product I use Cetaphil cleanser but not so sure that’s the best pick for me.
Sarah, there are so many beautiful and amazing cleansers! Any of the above that I recommended for Kath would probably be a great place to start: affordable, not tested on animals, and gentle! Can’t beat that! Let me know if you’re interested in a personal consultation (fingers crossed that you win a free one!)
My favorite product (and basically the only one I use) is a Burt’s Bees cleanser. This would help me out SO MUCH with my skincare routine – I have no idea what I’m doing!
Chelsea, let’s get you some knowledge and power about skincare! Check out my site for some tips and tricks!
Tarte BB Cream is a favorite!
I love my bare minerals makeup!
Love this post. What a great service! I love, love, love One Love Organics vitamin B active moisture cleansing oil.
Acure gel cleanser.
Right now I’m loving the Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream.
I’ve been a fan of PONDS for lotion and cold cream make up remover for years! I’d love to know if that’s a good thing…
Clare, I love the feel of Ponds Cold Cream makeup remover! It always makes me feel like an old-fashioned Hollywood star! I would call this cleanser “average”–since it is so heavy it’s great for a dry skin. As long as you’re not breaking out, and as long as you’re getting the results you want, if it ain’t broke…! But if you’re curious about something else, I’d love to chat!
Sounds like such a fun and educational service. I love using Dermalogica’s Mattifer. It lasts all day and I don’t get random oil spots on my face.
I use an Alba face wash, Trader Joe’s moisturizer… and my favorite is witch hazel. It makes a great toner!
Moisturizer with sunscreen and chapstick are all I use!
This was very interesting! I’m so glad she indicated which products are cruelty-free since that is important to me and helps me know what to use/purchase. I’m going to check out a few of the items she has recommended.
Thanks!
I hope you like the products! Everybody and Every Body is different, so if you have any personal questions or concerns, feel free to reach out! -anna lise
I am so excited about this post! This type of service is exactly what i need right about now! My favorite all time product is Cetaphil! But very curious (and nervous) to hear Anna Lise’s opinion on it!
My favorite beauty product is my Arbonne eye creme and serum! I love the way these products feel on my face each day!
I really appreciated this post. There are so many choices out there, and it’s nice to have a few basic rules to follow when choosing a product. My favorite make-up/skincare product is Smashbox color correcting primer. It reduces redness, doesn’t cause breakouts, and makes my tinted moisturizer look flawless. It’s not cheap but it is worth every penny.
My daily moisturizer is an Aveeno with suncreen. I’ve tried others and always come back to it.
I like Origins moisturizer. I have extremely sensitive skin and this stuff works great!
I would love to learn some new tips!
This is perfect timing for me! With my 33rd (whaaattt?!?!) birthday approaching, I’m reconsidering my cleansing/moisturizing/make-up routine and what I need to begin doing in the future. Great post! 🙂
Happy Birthday, April! I just turned the big 33 myself! Let me know if you’re interested in your own personal consultation!
My skincare is just washing and moisturizing!
Great post! I never knew that fragrance could be such an issue! And, it was helpful to see everything laid out in one place.
Kath, this is gorgeous! I slept in after a dinner party yesterday and am so excited to wake up to this! You are beautiful, inside and out!
Thanks! I enjoyed the experience!
My favorite beauty product is my cerave face wash!
I’ve really started exfoliating with a gentle pumpkin mask and it’s been wonderful!
I am obsessed with pretty much everything that Lush makes!
I love the recommendations, gonna check some out myself! Right now I actually use a facewash from Arbonne that I love called RE9 that leaves my face so smooth!
i’m a new mom and need help simplifying my skin care! i love olay daily moisturizer with SPF.
Luelle, new moms need simple but effective! If you want a personally created routine, check out my site! I’d be happy to get you the most bang for your buck (and your time)!
I know I need an overhaul, especially since I can see my skin getting older (thanks to two little ones! 🙂
This was a great post! Very informative.
Love Purity face wash!
My favortite beauty product is the neutrogena face wash
I’ve really enjoyed the Yes To products and am currently using the grapefruit face wash and moisturizer.
This is fascinating. I often feel lost knowing what products work beyond the hype. There are SO many options :/
Jackie, you are so right! The options are really insane, and it’s almost impossible for me as a trained professional to navigate. I am very passionate about empowering women to make smart and informed choices, like we do with our foods and our bodies, about our face. It’s important to me that we make choices out of power and not out of fear or being told we’re not pretty or good enough. Let me know if there’s anything I can help demystify! Check out my website too, I love debunking beauty myths! -alj
I would absolutely love to win this!! I love Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer!
My fav skincare product is Ole Henriksen Truth Serum (need to check if her concern about your Ole product is true for this one too!)
I actually love the Supergoop 35 SPF CC cream and use it daily, love that it color corrects to your tone.
I love my eyeliner – and I never knew that fragrance was such an irritant either!
Interesting, I also frequently wonder whether I’m doing the right things. I went to an esthetician a while back, and that was helpful. I’m curious how well this type of remote consultation works since it seems like it’s so important for them to really see and get a feel for your skin.
The google hangouts really help get in that “face” time : )
Yep, Kath is right! I can actually tell a lot more than you might think. There is a value in a great estheticians (I should know, I am one!), but what I do is a lot more like a nutritionist. I want to empower you to make your own good choices. So a nutritionist doesn’t necessarily need to see your body, I need to know how you feel and react to things. Certain clients I need more specifics, so sometimes a close-up picture of an affected area is needed. I’ve definitely gotten iPhone photos emailed to me with death threats that say “if you show this to anyone…!” I promise I don’t! 🙂
What do you think of orange tinted blusher for a touch of glow.
oh no after reading this I am worried that all my products are wrong! My favorite cream right now is Kiehls Powerful Wrinkle Reducer Cream at night.
Emily! First things first, if you’re happy with your skin and what you’re doing, then we’re already more than halfway there! I started what I do because I was tired of hearing women tell me how uncomfortable they were in their own skin, and how much money they were throwing away trying to “fix” it!
I love that Kiehl’s is fragrance free, but the jar packaging isn’t my favorite… (all the good antioxidants get oxidized when you open it, so it’s like driving a car off the lot–it’s not worth as much as when you bought it!). I also don’t know why they claim it can minimize pores because there isn’t a single ingredient that can do that in this product! But if you like it, that’s the most important part!
If you’re curious about how to augment or perfect your routine, reach out! I’d love to work with you to make you feel 100% confident each and every day!
I just bought Yes to Carrots! cream facial wash and I really like it so far!
Revlon nude lipstick
My favorite beauty product is Clarins Aqua Fusion cream-gel moisturizer. It’s light and refreshing, and is great for my combination skin!
Thanks, I found this post very helpful. I too follow a very simple skincare routine and dont know the first place to start when it comes to skin repair products. But its something I want to start looking into.
Rebekah, I’m happy to help if and when you are ready to perfect a routine! Maybe we can do a similar post on your site, too! 🙂
I started using Alpha H Liquid Gold a couple times a week in January and I LOVE it (I don’t use caps lock often!) It is a toner/moisturizer with glycolic acid to help with exfoliation and I can’t believe how even my skin tone has become in the 4 months I’ve been using it. I would love to hear her opinion on this. I also like Acure Argan oil for night. Very interesting post!
Oh Whitney, you are speaking my language! I love a good glycolic and a good oil! You are already so skin savvy! I haven’t used the Alpha H, but I looked up the ingredients and the second one is rubbing alcohol, which is a huge irritant to the skin! Ouch! And $60+ for something that is largely water and rubbing alcohol, we could definitely do better! Using glycolic is a great start! Let me know if you want to hear about more options!
I really enjoyed this post. I have recently been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and one of the side effects is a disruption of my hormones. My doctor has encouraged me to switch all of my skin care products to more natural options that are free of fragrance and harmful ingredients. This post had a lot of great options for me to check out!
Lauren, I am so sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis. I just recently worked with a client who has Lupus, and finding the hormone balance can be really tricky! Contact me know if you would like some recommendations–I’d also be happy to help find some body products as well. There are lots of great and affordable options out there!
What a great service! Your skin always fabulous!! I have a question about her makeup consultation. Did she go over color choices with you? Or just review their ingredients? I always feel like I’m using the wrong colors.
We didnt discuss colors because I didn’t ask but I’m sure she would tailor it to you
I would be totally happy to discuss colors! I worked as a makeup artist first before falling more and more in love with skincare, and there are definitely colors that are universally flattering on all skin types! And fun ways to play around and try things that are maybe more daring too! I focus mostly on the “complexion related” products (foundation, concealer, powder), but I love talking about the fun stuff too!
I just found out I’m pregnant and I’m wondering how/if I should change my beauty routine for the safety of my baby. Any thoughts?
Congrats, Cristal! First: always check with your doctor, and then second: check with yourself about your own pregnancy goals! There are a lot of options out there. Maybe we can do a Complimentary Consultation to discuss some of the options! You can schedule by clicking the calendar button the Contact page of my website! -alj
I actually don’t have a favorite beauty product, mainly because I have never been confident in the products I use! I could use some serious help on how to properly care for my skin. I have been blessed with good genes, but I know I should also be using proper techniques and products to keep my skin looking great 🙂
Good genes, Brooke! You’re already winning the lottery! I would love to help you feel CONFIDENT! We always want you to put your best face forward. 😉
I am currently loving the Avon Anew products. They have really helped my skin look fresh again.
I love benefits eye cream! I am a fan! However, I would love more advice on face wash and sunscreens!
Caitlin, you by all means could check out the recommendations I gave to Kath (if you are more of a normal skin type, not too dry or too oily). And feel free to check out my website if you’re curious about a more personalized routine, tailored to your needs and your budget!
I’ve never heard of a service like this. What a truly unique business, I love it! I was happy to see the Trader Joe’s face wash on her list. I’ve thought about buying it before, but wasn’t sure. I know their hand soap has fragrance and I never checked the face wash. I’m working on it DIY face care post and this gave me inspiration to finish it up and post it soon 🙂
Hannah, as far as I know, this type of services doesn’t actually exist yet! I’m forging a new way of thinking about the industry. I really want to encourage women to be empowered to make smart choices, like we do about other areas in our lives. The beauty industry makes billions of dollars by telling us we’re not good enough and should be better… I would love to see a change in that! Let me know if you want to do a similar post on your blog, too!
Origins Night-a-Mins is a fave!
My favorite beauty product is my origins night-a-mins oil free cream. I feel like it works wonders on my face overnight! Though, since reading this post, I’ve become skeptical of my whole skincare regimen! 🙂
EOS Lip gloss. They are so fruity and don’t leave my lips sticky.
I have EOS stashed all over my house and my car! Delicious and food grade edible organic!
my favorite product at this point is my night time boscia face cream- although i have sensitive, combination skin and i don’t think the products i use are properly tailored to my skin!
I use simple Cetaphil for a daily face wash and Aveeno Positive Radiance as a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen.
My favorite beauty product is CeraVe cream. I LOVE it! It’s especially great for hands because it’s thick and hydrates well but doesn’t leave a greasy feel.
I haven’t found the best one yet, but I need a favorite eye cream! Being in my (almost) mid-40s now, I can see my eyes changing and sagging already! I would love help for daily care and the occasional dry spots.
I highly recommend the Borage eye cream, and I do believe that the eye doesn’t necessarily need an “eye cream”–just a well formatted moisturizer that isn’t filled with irritants! And sunscreen is imperative for daytime, so if you don’t have a sunscreen you can tolerate around your eyes, let me know!
I love and use both of the Olay products she recommended (the serum and night stuff). The night one made a HUGE differnece for my mom, she is in her 60s so I am using for prevention! I lvoed this post!
My favorite beauty product is my Mary Kay TimeWise Matte Liquid Foundation. It’s light enough that I don’t dread putting it in on during the summer. Also, I love that I only need the foundation, I don’t need a powder on top of it. Saves me some time since I’m pretty basic when it comes to make-up.
I would love some insight into the current products I use and suggestions to make it better!
I love Neturogena Skin Clearing Foundation.
Somewhere along the way, I missed the class on make-up and skincare. I was too busy being an athlete and a tomboy, I guess. I would love to catch up now!
Stella, I am always jealous of those girls who never had to worry about their skin until later! The first time I saw a dermatologist I was 11. I learned because I had to… 🙁 But now I want to empower you to feel great about your skin too!
My favorite skin care product is my Alba face wash!
My favorite products are from the Paula’s Choice line, including the serum that she recommended to you.
But I highly recommend purchasing through the Paula’s Choice website rather than the Amazon link that you posted because you can always find coupon codes for discounts and free shipping, or they have always have free shipping for orders over $50, and you get to choose three free samples with your order.
I do love Paula! And yes, her website is amazing! I am constantly ordering her products (the BHA body lotion keeps my back and shoulders from looking like a teenage boy’s pimply face!!!)
Great post! I would love a consultation. My favorite product is Loccataine anti aging moisturizer and the eye cream from their divine collection.
I love Clinique. And totally want to get into mineral makeup.
This is a great post! Ever since I had my son, my skin has been so much drier than it used to be, and I know I’m not taking the time to take good care of it. I’m definitely going to try out a couple of the products listed – esp the serum and night cream. Who knew fragrance could be so irritating!!
LOVE Korres Wild Rose 24-hour Moisturizer
I would love a skin consultation! I have been wanting to get some new products but haven’t had the time/energy to do the research. My favorite product is good old maybelline mascare in the pink and green tube.
Crystal, let me do the research! I love doing it, it’s like solving a puzzle. You sit back and relax and let me do the heavy lifting! 🙂
My favorite beauty product at the moment is my Nars lipstick. Having been searching for the perfect color for a long time!
Really interesting! It’s so hard to find fragrance free products and, as a vegan, I love that she tried to find PETA approved skin care!
I love IS Clinical Youth Complex!
I recently started using Bare Minerals, and I love it! I need a complete overhaul to my skin care routine. Since going off of birth control, my acne has been out of control!
Kristi–acne is so awful (trust me I lived with chronic acne for almost 12 years!). There are at least 7 known causes of acne, and a recent study showed that hormonal breakouts in women 18-35 have risen over 60% in the past generation. The majority of my clients come to me because they are sick and tired of dealing with it and need someone to hold their hand and cut through the nonsense. I’d love to help you take back the control and the power!
My favorite beauty product is my Boots Moisturizing Deep Clean Foaming Cleanser, which is sadly discontinued. I’d love some advice on what else to use, since I have been using Boots for 5+ years now!
This rosewater and glycerin spray from Whole Foods is awesome – I spritz it on my face before applying moisturizer for extra hydration!
Anna Lise was my hall counselor as a freshman at Davidson! Love that she is doing this:) What a fab woman she is!
No way! That’s so fun. What year were you?
Actually, was classmates with you and Matt:) My maiden name was Upchurch. Been reading the blog for years! Just had a baby 6 weeks ago and read each of your BERF pregnancy posts as I hit them myself! Loving all these Wildcat bloggers:)
Ahhh hi Emily!! So exciting about the baby – hope you are getting some sleep : )
Not only is Asher (Emily’s son) beautiful, but he has the most expressive face of any little baby I’ve ever seen! I think you are wonderful women (Davidson sure can pick ’em, can’t they?!). I am honored to know you both!
I use a lot of Arbonne products and have liked them but I am always open to trying something new!
Um, I love Noxema. (I feel like I shouldn’t be saying that.)
Me too!
This is awesome! Lately, I have been thinking a ton about my skincare regime (which is basically nada) and now that I am in my early thirties I think it is time to take it seriously! I REALLY hope I win! 🙂
I hope you win too! If not, though, we can always just touch base with a 30 minute complimentary consultation! Time to face the music. 🙂
This was an interesting read! She mentioned a couple face washes from The Body Shop. I’ve had a pretty good experience with their products and find if you look online they are on sale frequently. Just a tip in case you are going try any of those out!
I love bare essentials as well. It just feels so natural on my skin.
I love to use clinique espresso eye liner! Gorgeous! I hope I win!!
I love Aveeno SPF moisturizer – I’ve been using it for years, and it’s the only thing I’ve been able to keep the same as my skin has changed (age, pregnancy, postpartum, etc.).
What a neat service. I love my Almay foundation. They’ve changed the packaging 18 times in the years I’ve used it but it is a heat sports formula with am SPF.
My absolute favorite skin care produce is Alba Botanica’s AcneDote Face and Body Scrub! I have extremely sensitive skin as well as skin that is extremely prone to breakouts, so I’m constantly battling with it. I currently use Clinique for everything else but I’d love to know what other products could do the same job and were more natural (and at a lower price point!), without irritating my skin.
So informative! I love those say yes to cucumber wipes as a way to refresh my face after traveling.
Chapstick is my number one!
What a great post — so helpful and insightful.
I LOVE Philosophy’s Purity face wash !
I’m pretty simple – I love cetaphil and argon oil!
I can’t live without my Clarisonic, and I love my Bobbi Brown skincare products.
I use Yes to Cucumber cleanser and love it!
I really would love to win this consultation. I need help in choosing which products are best for my skin type- I feel like I am always choosing the wrong products for my skin. I also only wear moisturizer- I need a beauty regimen/routine!
Shannon, everyone can use a little help! Fingers crossed for you, and check out my website too, for lots of other tips and tricks!
I don’t have a favorite, I know I should have a whole regimen. I haven’t been a makeup person my whole life so I never got into the fancy washes and creams that seem to go with makeup.
I used Bare Minerals for my wedding and loved it, but sadly haven’t had it since. Need to invest in some asap….
This is a great post and a great service. Love all the natural recommendations! I have been liking the Yes to Grapefruit Eye Cream recently.
I love Clinique moisturizer
My favorite beauty product is Zoya nail polish. It lasts forever!!
What a great service! I have been pondering changing products myself due to budget and skincare concerns.
What a cool service!! I have definitely been working on changing up my skincare routine to a little bit more of an “adult” routine (what, no clean&clear?) and watching the ingredient lists. My favorite current brand is the “simple” brand, mostly because I have extremely sensitive skin and this is the only brand I’ve found so far that doesnt break me out in a rash (not even just acne – I usually get a full out skin rash!)
Stephanie, I would love to help you and your routine graduate to an adult status! Maybe we can do a similar post for your blog, too?
After reading about it on your blog, I also began using the Alba Sea Minerals cleanser and I love it! The scent is so fresh!
I really enjoyed this post, too. My favorite beauty product might by my prescription Retin-A. Keeps pimples and wrinkles at bay.
Smart lady! Prescription retinol is the #1 anti-aging topical ingredient money can buy! Keep up the good work!
Mine too 🙂
I just wanted to say YES about Trader Joe’s Nourish All-in-One Facial Cleanser. I have been using it for a few months now, and it keeps my face absolutely clear without over-drying it. It is so affordable and the best cleanser I have ever used! I will be devastated if they ever discontinue it.
Interesting and informative post–thanks!
I love coconut oil for moisturizer! The only down side is that it doesn’t have SPF naturally in it.
Leah, the antioxidants in the coconut oil do provide a minimal SPF–maybe a 2 or a 3. The math means that you can get 2 or 3 times the protection. So if it would normally take you 60 minutes to burn in the sun, an SPF of 2 will get you 120 minutes, and an SPF 10 would get you 600 minutes. So it’s a start!
anything Josie Marin!!
Love my Maybelline mascara!
I really enjoyed this! I recently turned 30 and have been really trying to work on my skin!
I’m a simple person when it comes to my routine, so any help would be greatly appreciated.
cetaphil is my favorite face cleaner.
My current favorite beauty product is Mario Badescu Vitamin C serum!
I loved seeing that an Arbonne creme was recommended. The products are all amazing–and contain NO harmful ingredients. Plus they’re formulated by the man who used to formulate for Aveda! I use all Arbonne products in my skincare routine!
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
I used Olay Suncreen on my face and really like it, but am not really attached to any products.
What a great post! One of my favorite beauty products is Jouer cream blushes!
RIght now the ONLY products I use on my skin are a Cetaphil cleanser and SPF lotion.
I am currently on Accutane for moderate, persistent adult on-set acne (ugh!) It is definitely NOT my favorite. I have two months remaining on my 8 month treatment, and I feel like something like this might help me choose products for future treatment of my skin!
Meg, I would love to help you transition out of the Accutane! I have quite a lot of adult acne clients (it’s a You-Know-What, let me tell you!), and the transition can be hard. Check out my website if you’re curious for more, and maybe even set up a complimentary 30 minute consult. I’d love to get the results you want!
Yeah, if your experience is anything like mine (and it might not be because everyone is different) my skin type is VERY different post accutane than before. It’s definitely not as dry as it was when I was taking accutane (and if you’re dealing with really, really dry skin I found aquaphor from Eucerin to be a lifesaver), but it is still MUCH dryer than than it was before. It is also interesting because my doctor said that post-accutane patients sometimes respond differently to different oral medications & topicals than they did before and that has certainly been true in my case. I know people can get so down on accutane because of the possibility of bad side effects but if I had to do it all over again I’d do it again in heartbeat.
Neat post! I have a Boots foaming cleanser that I LOVE.
So interesting to learn about scent. Im a total sucker for lavender scented products for nighttime, I wonder how “bad” they are?
Sadly, pretty bad. I love lavender too! Now I just light a candle and buy the dried bunches for my closets instead!
Though it does have antibacterial properties, lavender when oxidized becomes lineally acetate that can lead to contact dermatitis and has been shown to be a photosensitizer (makes you more susceptible to sunburn and sun damage). Linalool, another compound of lavender, can cause skin-cell death. Lastly, camphor is another known irritant. It’s hard to say “how bad is bad”–for every blog like KERF there’s someone who says “my grandfather smoked like a chimney and ate McDonalds every day and lived until 98″… But the skin care science bottom line is: pretty bad.
I have been using Josie Maran’s argan oil based daily moisturizer with SPF 47, the highest SPF I can find in a more natural product!
What a great idea! I would love to have some advice on my skin care routine. I feel like I have no idea what I need! Thank you for sharing.
Wow!! I didn’t know that a service like this existed. It is so hard for me to find products that don’t irritate my skin or to know what to use when etc. Right now I’m sticking with Clinique only because it isn’t irritating or causing redness.
Lori, as far as I know, I am the only person in the world doing this type of skincare consulting. I am so glad you like what you’re using! Let me know if you have any questions or concerns, or if things stop being favorable!
I would love to try this! Although I’m in my late 20s, I have never found a face wash that seems to work for me – preventing the occasional breakout without over drying seems to be a balance I haven’t found yet. Thanks for sharing this service!
Michaela–shockingly a lot of people don’t actually know how to wash their face! 🙂 Who knew it could be so complicated! If you’re curious, schedule a 30 minute complimentary consultation, and I’d be happy to walk you through it. Also any of the cleansers I recommended for Kath would be a great place to start!
Does coconut oil count? Also love Physician’s Formula BB Cream
My favorite product is herbal nova, a nourishing face cream.
I could really use the help! I tend to just wash my face with Neutrogena or target brand!
I use Aveeno sensitive skin foaming cleanser. I have no idea if this is a good product or not, but it doesn’t dry me out like some others do. I can use LOTS of direction in the cosmetics/skin care area!
That’s one of my favorites too. I’ve tried other things, including much more expensive products, but I keep coming back to it.
The body shop’s vitamin C serum I’ve been using every morning under my lotion for years!
I love Skinceuticals daily moisture cream
I love Smashbox Photo Finish Primer!
Thanks for this post! I’m always wondering how I better take care of my skin and simplify my make up routine!
my newest favorite product is my Tarte blush! The color is great.
I love “Yes to Carrots” moisturizer and body butter.
I use Clinique moisturizer and that’s about it! I guess I could use some help!
I love this post! I’m currently obsessed with the Yes to Carrots line, and I used the body butter daily this winter. I think as part of the same line, there is a Yes to Blueberries facial wipes that I also love. It’s all in the same aisle at Target!
I struggle with rosey cheeks and am hesitant when trying new products…for the last year I have been using Arbonne’s face wash and it seems to do the trick!
I need to get serious about a skiincare routine. I am lucky if I wash my face outside the shower. I do second the kiss my face moisturizer though!
Love bare minerals!! Also loving Say Yes to Tomatoes Acne Treatment Stick!
This is awesome – the fragrance thing is really interesting/good to know! I started using Keihl’s midnight recovery at night with my facial cream and it has done wonders for my winter skin. It’s pricy, but I’ve had it for 3 months and am not even 1/4 of the way through it, so I expect it will be a yearly purchase! May not even need it in the summer!
Sarah, are you using the oil? There’s a lot of fragrance in that product as well. Rose Flower Oil, Jasmine Extract, Rosemary Leaf Oil are all basically fancy names for fragrance. Have you ever tried plain Jojoba oil? 2 ounces is less than $10 and 4x as much product! I love having a good oil on hand!
It’s super pricey and currently out of stock at Birchbox, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE DDF’s Wrinkle Resist Plus Pore Minimizer. It’s heavenly. I also love Coola’s Matte Cucumber sunscreen for my oily face.
My favorite face wash is Trader Joe’s Nourish all in one.
I recently received a sample of Sisley black rose skin mask and I love it–definitely my favorite skin care product of the moment.
what a helpful service!
My must-have beauty product is good old Cetaphil. I use the thicker moisturizing cream (in a jar) at night and during the day on my neck and around my eyes (and then SFP moisturizer over than). I feel like it is light enough that I don’t feel like it’s on but gives a lot of great moisture!
I love Bare Minerals warmth bronzer! Gives my skin a little glow but not over the top.
Would love to try this out as at the age of 29 I still get acne and I am so sick of it. But I’m also concerned about anti-aging at the same time.
Laura, so many of my clients are in the exact same boat! I suffered from acne for 12 years. I would love to talk to you about your concerns! The good news: a lot of the treatments for acne are also treatments for aging! Woohoo! Bad news? Acne products have possibly the worst reputation for AWFUL ingredients that you should never use on your skin, and especially not when you’re breaking out! Make sure nothing you put on your face has any of the following ingredients: alcohol, menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon to name a few… And if you’re confused, let me know! This is what I do! 🙂
i love trader joe’s tea tree oil face wash!
This sounds like a great giveaway. Although I must admit, I’m a little afraid to hear what she might think of my current skin routine. Eek.
PY, trust me– you can’t shock me! I’ve seen it all! But most people just need little tweaks. In the end we usually save money (and time, and worry!)
Interesting that she suggests olay! Has anyone heard of collective wellbeing?
I love my aveeno facial moisturizer- it’s lightweight and SPF 30!
I love the blue corn mask and clay mask from the Body Shop.
I love Cetaphil’s SPF 50 facial moisturizing lotion. Trader Joe’s coconut body butter is a close second.
I love facial cleansing wipes… Great for when I don’t want to fully wash my face and have to redo my eye makeup! I’m not really brand specific with the kind I use.
I love lush ultrabland as cleanser!
An interesting post! I love St. Ives Apricot Scrub for body. I’ve used it for 15 years!
I love my powder spf- it is by colorescience
Love me some Rosedud Salve for the lips 🙂
Me too! By my bedside and use it every night!
I have no favorite beauty product. It all seems like a hassle to me!
This post is so fantastic…I would definitley benefit from this service! Right now my favorite product is Organic Virgin Argan Oil from a local company, http://www.applevalleynaturalsoap.com/organic-virgin-argan-oil/. It’s lightweight and super moisturizing!
A skin consultations are a great idea! Thanks!
Arbonne products are really awesome, the calm line is especially great!
You turned me on to the Belli line of pregnancy safe products back when you were pregnant with Mason and I have stuck with them ever since. I love the cleanser, face scrub, tinted SPF, and night cream!
I’d love to win this!
Mychelle products are awesome!
I am a big fan of Clinique quickliner. It’s the only eyeliner I can consistently put on with ease!
I started using a face wash and acne treatment from The Spoiled Mama while I was pregnant, and kept on using them after my daughter was born.
This is an awesome post. I am also so interested in this kind of stuff. I have been trying to find the best skin care routine for awhile and have been trying to do research on my own. I didn’t know there were people who could do that for you! Awesome!
Emily, as far as I know, I’m the only person who is doing something like this! Forging ahead a new way of looking at the beauty industry and empowering you to make smarter choices! I would love to help you and give you the knowledge to make better decisions and feel confident about what’s coming in the years to come!
I love all my products from Bare Minerals but especially the ‘Prime Time’ makeup primer.
With sensitive, acne prone skin that is now getting into first wrinkles territory, I can totally relate to trial and error/skincare being a “marathon” not a “sprint”. And I could use all the help I can get! 🙂
As far as skincare goes, my only true loyalties lie with Cetaphil and pure organic coconut oil as a nightime moisturizer.
Isn’t acneic skin that is also wrinkling just the biggest kick in the pants!?! Are you using a BHA product? Not only great for a skin that tends towards congestion or breakouts, but also good for fine lines and wrinkles…! If we plan it well, even a sensitive skin can add it! Let me know if you’re curious to learn more!
This is totally me too Amy! Anna Lise what do you think about the Eminence line? I have yet to find something that helps with both acne and aging!
My favorite beauty product is organic coconut oil. So simple and versatile!
I would love to win this consultation! I turn 38 next month, and since 40 is now a tiny (TINY!) dot on the horizon, I would love some information on how my routine/products need to change. Also, I realized reading this that I’m probably a major offender on the fragrance thing. My current favorite skincare product is the Eight Greens Phyto Masque by Eminence. Introduced to it after getting a facial with it last summer.
Great post, super informative.
I am loving Clinique’s BB cream, otherwise I use Lancome makeup. That Bare Minerals stuff I find too orange. I have quite oily skin and prone to breakouts, I use Body Shop Tea Tree Cleanser.
Coconut oil is my favorite moisturizer and makeup remover!
I have so many favorite products. I’ve dealt with acne on and off since I was a teenager so I’ve always had to be vigilant with my skin care. Beyond the prescription products I use I love my clarisonic, aveeno cleanser, and FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask. But if I were forced to pick I really, really love PETER THOMAS ROTH Camu Camu Power C x 30™ Vitamin C Brightening Serum. It has been an especially harsh winter in Chicago and this has been great for keeping dryness & itchiness at bay.
I will also add that another really great resource I’ve used is skin type solutions. They have a free questionnaire that gives you your skin type and I’ve found their recommendations to be very helpful.
I always love the way the yellow Clinique facial moisturizer feels. I also love Dove soap for my face. Have no idea if either of those things is “good”.
Melanie, I would avoid bar soap in general because there are ingredients in the bar that make the product stay together and solidify–so even after you emulsify the product, it still will try to solidify on the skin. But if you’re liking the results you are getting, then more power to you! If you’re curious, any of the cleansers I recommended to Kath would be a great place to start!
I LOVE the Jason skincare nourishing cocoa butter cream! the best!
Awesome consultation! I own a few of those products: the Body Shop Aloe Vera facial wash, the Paula’s Choice ultralight serum and Olay Regenerist. Love them all, although my favorite is the Paula’s Choice serum – I do notice a difference in my skin!
I just ordered the serum for myself!
I have sensitive skin and can never seem to find a balance between dry and oily. It is very frustrating! However a lot of these products would be out of budget for me. And the less expensive brands, like Olay, I have had sensitivites to in the past. So basically, I am afraid to try new things! But would love some guidance! Great info about the eye cream though – good to know!
Jen, these products are a little more expensive because I was trying to choose cruelty free and more natural for Kath. Olay does make a lot of fragrance-free options, though it’s hard to read on the label. If you’re curious on a more affordable routine, please reach out! I would be happy to help!
I love Bare Minerals and have been using their products for years!
I love mascara but have stopped wearing it regularly because I always get black gunk in the corners of my eyes. It made me think about how many strange chemicals I’m exposing my eyes to. I still haven’t found a mascara that looks safer. Has anyone else found a more natural one?
I love Blinc mascara – cruelty free and no raccoon eyes EVER!
My favorite beauty product is Burt’s bees chapstick. Can’t live without it!
Great info!
I wash daily with: Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser
I love Cera Ve. Best moisturizer. I use it, my husband uses it, and we use it for our 7 month old.
I think that my favorite beauty product is Philosophy’s Purity gel cleanser- it gets all my makeup off, including my mascara!
I love all the Paula’s choice line, specifically the BHA gel. Good stuff.
Any moisturizer as I have dry skin.
I love the Clinique 3 step formula
I love my Kiehl’s face products and I would be very interested to know how they stock up in this consultation! My favourite face product is their Daily Cleanser… I probably overuse it!!
Love Bare Minerals makeup!
Amazing service! I’d love to hear feedback about my current routine!
I try to keep it simple, so I guess just mascara. I’d love a consult.
I love Paula’s choices!
This is a wonderful service!! I started using the Eminence line for acne prone skin, all natural ingredients so I hope it helps me!!! I would love a consultation!
Very informative post! Thank you both.
I also use Bare Minerals, so I am curious — can you please elaborate on her suggestions RE “mineral options to try that are cheaper but just as good”?
Here were some of the ones she recommended as alternatives to Bareminerals:
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation*, $12
Pürminerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup SPF 15, $26
Korres Wild Rose Mineral Fondation SPF 30*, $28
Trish McEvoy Even Skin Mineral Foundation SPF 15, $35
Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15*, $38
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Mineral MAkeup SPF 15*, $39
Jane Iredale Base Loose Minerals SPF 20, $29
Wow, thanks so much, Kath!!
I love Paula’s Choice Resist Barrier moisturizer with Retinol.
Thanks.
My favorite beauty product is Marula Oil. It’s so moisturizing and makes my skin look hydrated without being oily. I love it! (And also the fact that the company has a lot of fair trade practices and supports the women who harvest the nuts for it–and it’s cruelty free)
I love ole henriksen African red tea cleanser! I also use the aha night gel and eye gel too!
I love Cetaphil face moisturizer!
I love reading and learning about skincare! I am 25 and feel like I still haven’t figured it out. I still get acne but I think my problem is using too many different products; makeup removers, face wipes, wash, moisturizer, makeups. I feel like it’s been such a trial and error process trying to navigate skincare!
Hmm… does Almay eye make remover wipes count?
Otherwise… covergirl butterfly mascara!
This is so great! I’d love to know which makeup she recommended!
What a brilliant idea! I have been semi-obsessed with overhauling my skin routine lately so it’s funny that you posted this.
I found this guest post really interesting and I would love to have a consultation in order to see how the products I am using are for my health.
My favorite product is my korres facial lotion
I love my Benefit Foundation!
I seriously cant live without my neutrogena makeup remover wipes. i love them!
I have loved the Michael Todd true organic anti-aging face lift cream, but I bought it on a major sale and would be curious if it is worth the full price! Not sure I love it enough for $150!
This was helpful; I’m going to bookmark it. I’m pretty sure my skin care “routine” needs updating, but as a Mom I have limited time to shop, let alone research. Anyway, I’ve always used Olay sensitive with SPF and night of Olay.
I would LOVE to have this consultation. I use like, 7 million skin care products because I’m obsessed with trying to keep wrinkles off my face!
This is exactly the consultation I need! I had no idea someone did this, but it’s such a great idea! I’m always researching what I’m buying, but I’m no expert! I’d love to win this one!
I love the Wet ‘n Wild Mega Lash Clinical Lash Serum. It’s like a super cheap Latisse, and it WORKS. I notice a difference in the length of my eyelashes in just a couple days. It’s amazing.
What a great service she provides! It would be nice to have something so individualized!
I love The Body Shop’s Aloe Soothing Day Cream!
I love Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash – a dermatologist recommended it to me over 20 years ago and I still use it to this day!
My favs are Oil of Olay and Neutrogena skin care…Bobbi Brown makeup!
I love a good exfoliating scrub!
The only moisturizer that seems to do anything for my dry skin is DML Daily Facial Moisturizer! But I have seriously dry skin because of autoimmune thyroid issues.
I love the Say Yes to Cucumbers face wipes for in the evening!
Wow, I could really use this! My skincare routine is basically non-existant since recently having a baby… The only thing I’ve been using regularly is my Burt’s Bees mango chapstick!! I still have acne and scarring at age 30 (and have tried every product under the sun-including prescriptions…ugh.) Sounds like an amazing service!
BB cream! New discovery and I love how smooth it goes on under my makeup
What a fantastic service! After such a long and dry winter I have been really liking Vichy’s Aqualia Thermal Serum.
I don’t know that I really have a favorite, I tend to be a little lazy when it comes to skincare, but I have been liking Burts Bees cleanser for sensitive skin.
Interesting post – thanks! I plan to check out the Kiss My Face sunscreen.
…and my fave beauty product is jojoba oil.
I use cerave nighttime moisturizer – I like how it is light on my skin. I don’t like the feeling of an oily face especially at night.
Love origins face wash!
I started the clinique three step last year and my skin has never been better!!
I love the say yes to cucumbers facial lotion. it’s soothing, non-greasy and just has a very light fresh smell! i believe they have one with and one without SPF…. and i don’t like too pricey either, and you can get double coupons if you get it at target!
I would love something like this. I cannot say how many products I have tried and still cannot find something that really works for my skin. I can say I like the neutrogena oil free fragrance free moisturizer for the winter.
I don’t have a favorite beauty product though I do have a Bobbi Brown shimmer blush that I like. I found this post super interesting. I have never spent much time worrying about my skin, but as I’m getting older I have been thinking more about taking better care of it. I would love a consultation with Anna Lise!
When I was traveling in Asia, Olay facial wipes saved my life! Perfect for carry on, I washed my face in Tokyo, Seoul, Phnom Penh, and the beaches of Vietnam.
Nars bronzer i cannot live without!
My fav beauty product is organic coco oil.
I recently had my first facial and learned some interesting things re:products but its all so confusing! My skin has been more breakout prone post partum and I’m also concerned about aging and evening my skin tone. There is so much contradictory info out there and it’s really frustrating to do research, think you’ve found a good product, only to spend the money and find out later that it’s not effective!!
Sidenote – do you or Anna Lise get a comission from any of the links posted? I am OK buying through affiliate links but I just like it to be clear who/what I’m supporting. Thanks!
I do. I mentioned it at the bottom but I’m sorry if it wasn’t obvious enough.
This is fantastic! My favorite product is Jane Iredale’s mineral powder. LOVE that stuff!
Coconut oil!! I use it primarily as a makeup remover. It works especially well removing my eye makeup. I just take a small amount of oil and massage it around and then wipe clean with a dampened cotton pad. It doesn’t irritate my skin at all like the premoistened pads did and it is very cheap to use since you only need a tiny bit.
Cetaphil daily moisturizer with SPF is my new fav.
This is a great giveaway! I start each day off with Cetaphil facial cleanser.
I love my philosophy 4-in-1 powder.
Josie Maran’s Argan Oil
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm – I love how it tingles!
Cover Girl Clump Crusher mascara is my favorite. I rarely leave home without it on!
I love Burt’s Bees pomegranate lip balm – it soothes my lips even when they are cracked beyond belief!
I would love to talk to Anna Lisa about my white heads. I think it is due to product build up but I have no idea which product is causing it and I do not want to change everything! Thanks for this great give a way!
Love the original Oil of Olay face cream. If it ain’t broke…don’t fix it !
I am totally lost when it comes to good products. I see products that come with cleanser toner…are toners still something people use and are they a good product for the skin?
I love all things skincare and make up! I have been using the Aveda line, Botanical Kinetics, for years.
My favorite beauty product is obagi skin care system. Close second is my mineral powder brush clear sunscreen
Lately I love my Ann Webb pomegranate moisturizer – it is so pleasant to put on that it really helps with good habits!
Neocutis Biocream is amazing!
I am now in my 40’s and still feel like I have no clue what products to use. I still get some breakouts and also have to deal with wrinkles.
I have a mask that I love that also happens to be one of the most expensive items I have bought. I love the way it makes my skin feel/look when I use it. It’s Glamglow Super-Mud Clearing Treatment.
My current favorite is my philosophy moisturizer. I believe it’s called ray of hope.
I love Kiehls lip balm and use it every night before bed. Curious to know your opinion on eye makeup remover. I don’t use it but wonder if I should and if so what brand.
After much trial and error on my acne-prone skin, I’ve gone old school… I’m a huge fan of pond’s cold cream for moisture/makeup removal
I’m obsessed with SPF moisturizer-i wear it everyday and it is so nice to have that extra sun protection! but i’ve heard a lot recently about coconut oil and all of its uses, so i’m intrigued
What a great service. Would love to win
I have been using Bare Minerals for a few years now and I absolutely love it!
My favorite beauty product is vaseline! My grandmother has used it for ages before bed on her eyelids and lips and she has hardly any wrinkles. It’s cheap, easy, and effective!
it’s petroleum based…
buxom eyeshadows by bare minerals, for sure! And they’re all named for dog breeds- so cute!
What a fantastic post! I am more and more interested in skin are now that I am in my 30s.
I’m on a kick to find new locally available products – current favorites are from a trip to Europe – Biafine ACT and Homeoplasmine.
I actually don’t have a favorite beauty product because every single one I try makes me break out! I usually stick to Dove soap for sensitive skin and when my skin needs moisture I use Aveeno Daily Moisturizing lotion. Again…I don’t have favorites, these just don’t give me AS MUCH acne as other products. I would love to know what to use to make my acne BETTER…
I use Oil of Olay moisturizer every single day.
I LOVE your approach, thank you for talking about PETA, and more organic products and also ethical! I try to use 1 gentel cleanser with no paraben, no sulfites, and I put organic jojoba oil on my wet skin, and it’s such a good way to treat my skin a naturally as possible…
Olay face bar
i like the simple skincare line
I’ve been using bare minerals for years and love it, however my face wash/lotion needs have recent changed and I need something new badly!!! going to look into that TJ cleanser
I would love help finding a less expensive (& better for my skin!) makeup & daily sunscreen. I currently use Bobbi Brown and Aveno SPF moisturizers. One thing I probably won’t ever change? Centavo hill face wash … So gentle since I use prescription aczone & retin-a!
This is a great post- thank you!
Great post! Favorite beauty product: Burt’s bees chapstick!
Ugh me too! Love that stuff – addicting!
love my beauty oils- tarte maracuja is my favorite right now!
The product I can’t live without is Cetaphil cleanser. I have some skin issues, and this gentle cleanser is perfect for me.
I really enjoyed this post. I have tried so many things over the years to try and battle my oily, acne prone skin. It can be so confusing and potentially so expensive! I would love a consultation to try and sort some of it out.
Wow! I never pay a ton of attention to these types of posts because the products are usually really expensive and seem excessive, but this was so helpful! As an endurance athlete, It would be interesting to see the suggestions outside of the “wear sunscreen all of the time!” Thanks Kath for a great post!
Really helpful post–and so nice to learn that cheaper doesn’t mean inferior in all cases (or that more expensive is better). I learned a lot about what to look for in skin care products.
I am a fan of Burt’s Bees and Honest company. I think this service sounds great, but there also be a focus on the EWG scores of some of these products. Cosmetics can be scary and some of these suggestions don’t do well on the EWG score. The more people who pay attention to those issues the better products we will end up with!
I have just started using Paula’s Choice products so I was happy to see that she recommended a few. I have been using the Skin Balancing Sunscreen and love it so far!
This is impressive information and I found it really helpful!
i LOVE face wipes by biore, they work but i bet they are not good for me. i also really like nars lip gloss.
My favorite is a blush from bare minerals! I’d love to go more natural/environmentally friendly with my makeup and I know a lot of my stuff probably isn’t!!
I’m really liking Paula’s choice products lately!
love!!
Oh, I would love to win this and will probably consider paying for it if I don’t! What a great service. My skin has changed so much in the last year or so and I can’t seem to figure it out (beginning signs of aging, large pores, redness/dryness- where do you start?)
One thing I do love is my Origins eye cream, but now I’m wondering about the jar packaging and losing potency!
My favorite cleanser is Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser.
I really enjoyed this post. I wonder what the results of my consultation would be! I have super dry skin. There are a few products that I love, but wonder if they have negative ingredients that I need to be aware of. I use cetaphil cream for my nightly moisturizer, origins perfect world serum, and origins modern friction exfoliater.
I have continued to be a fan of Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizer.
Well, I guess this giveaway or service would be good for me because I can’t really think of a beauty product that I’m crazy about… I guess I would say Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser, but honestly it doesn’t seem to be doing its job lately, so I don’t know. Kath, thanks for blogging about The Complexion Concierge, it sounds like a great resource!!!
This is a great service! I love Neutrogena and Dermalogica products.
Thanks for the giveaway and informative post!
I’m a big fan of Cetaphil cleansers and moisturizers!
My problem is that I do not know what to use or buy so I do nothing so I have no favorite anything! Yikes!!
What a great service! I usually use benefit cosmetics but now wonder if they’re any good…
I so need this. My skin sucks ever since I stopped breastfeeding my second baby and went back on birth control. I usually love neutrogena but I’m breaking out all the time now. Plus someone definitely needs to help me understand the cc/bb trend.
I love products from LUSH Cosmetics, especially their shampoos and conditioners!
good chapstick goes a long way!
I was using Rodan + Fields and recently became a consultant! I love everything about it – what do you LOVE & maybe dislike in their line and why? Thanks!
I love all of Cliniques products-especially their exfoliate. Too harsh for faces but amazing for great looking legs!
I use Bare Minerals powder and it does a great job of keeping my skin clear. I recently started using Bobbi Brown corrector for skin discoloration and under eye color..so far so good!
I love my bare minerals!
I’ve recently fallen in love with lush’s Enzymion’s moisturizer, but the fact that it comes in a jar has me worried now! : /
I want this!
I would so love a consult! I’m vegan so I try to used PETA approved products, but I’m not sure that what I’m getting is always the most effective. And I need it to be cheap, and I have sensitive skin. I could really use her help.
My fave product right now is Korres Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial. It’s a little pricey for a small jar but it does such a great job at reducing my occasional rosacea and while I’m asleep.
I really don’t have a favorite except maybe Olay foaming facial cleanser. I usually get what I have a coupon for. I know not the best thing to do.
I’m still messing around with products to see what I love and don’t but one of my favorites is the body shop vit e spf moisturizer
This would be awesome! I struggle with acne-prone skin and have found the only thing that works for me is benzoyl peroxide and would love to find something that is less harsh but still works well. 🙂
As far as favorite beauty product, I love Bare Minerals make-up. It’s so light and it never feels like I’m wearing anything at all!
I do use an expensive face cream but I have no clue if it’s the best for my skin type. All I know is that it doesn’t cause my sensitive skin to breakout which is good enough for me. I would love to learn more!
I love Bare Minerals! I’ve been using it for years and will never go back to liquid foundation.
Love Clinique…
My favorite beauty product is probably Burt’s Bees lip balm (love the original & the grapefruit)! I would love to do a consultation with her – she had some fascinating stuff to tell you & I could reallllllly use some skincare help. I have combination skin & a little acne (although wayyyy less than my teen years) & have never really got into a good routine with skincare because I don’t even know where to start.
I love the entire line of Algenist products and use their firming serum, eye cream, and firming cream every night. Have noticed a real difference!
At age 46, any moisturizer that keeps my face from feeling parched is most welcome. My favorite is Clinique Repairwear Intensive Night Cream Very Dry Skin Formula.
Atopalm MLE cream.
I love Boscia moisturizers.
What a great post and such a cool service! I’m in my mid 50’s and 2 products I can’t live without are Aveeno calming facial wash and Olay Regenerist serum. I can’t use anything scented due to allergies so I guess I am one step ahead of the game there! I would love to know what other products I should be using at my age.
Thanks so much for the sunscreen reminder. I live in Florida and rarely use it! I don’t spend a lot of time outside but I know that it’s dangerous to go without it since you get sun damage driving, etc. I am going to start using it immediately.
I am a Philosophy girl. But I would love an individualized consultation. Sounds like fun.
Right now my Glycolix 20% brightening facial pads. I am trying to lighten up some spots!
I would never give up noxema! I’m also a big fan of ending your face washing with super cold water. I keep it easy and thankfully genetics has been in my favor.
This is awesome! Honestly I usually buy what’s on sale and don’t really have a routine!
I can’t wait to try some of these products! I never thought about adding a serum but will certainly look into it.
I would love to win this! I have no set beauty routine so I can’t say I have a favorite beauty product. If anything, my blistex is my staple 🙂 I need help, ha.
My favorite beauty product is my Neutrogena moisturizer! I keep it simple 🙂 and it’s probably terrible for me but i love it anyway!
I love CeraVe PM lotion as a moisturizing serum (my skin is really dry so I use this immediately after washing and then add a heavier moisturizer a few minutes later.)
I love rosehip oil for night time!
I love Bare Minerals too.
Bliss duo cleaner/face wash.
I also use Bare Minerals but am having a difficult time finding a good moisturizer for day/evening.
I wonder how PCA skin care adds up!
I am totally not a makeup wearer generally or have a skincare routine, but I loved this post and found it super interesting!
My favorite cleanser is Cetaphil, but now I am rethinking whether I should continue using it!
Love Bare minerals! I hate that I have to always rotate beauty products because it seems like they only work for 6 months and then I have to find something else!
I’ve been trying good old coconut oil on my skin and as a makeup remover. Not sure if it’s good for my skin but I love the smell!
I like Crystal brand deodorant a lot — the lilac one. 🙂
Kiehl’s moisturizer with SPF.
Would love to win! Add me to the list of late 20 somethings w/ occasional acne. Want to kick that in the butt for good! After working at a dermatologists office in college, a good SPF is my favorite product.
Kath your promotion/discussion about the BareMinerals line of makeup piqued my interest, so last year I purchased some for the first time and I absolutely love it! I’ve never been one to spend much $$ or time on skin/makeup, but I also value the health and quality of my skin so I would love to win a consultation. Fun post!
arbonne. anything arbonne.
Bare Minerals is my jam.
I so need this. I’ve been dealing with acne since my teens and I’m now 33. I thought it was supposed to go by now 🙁 I am a product junkie and this may contribute to it. This consultation sounds so helpful.
Cetaphil face wash!
Natural and cruelty-free is important to me but I wonder if I value that over products that are best for me. My favorites right now are Elta MD sunscreen, and the yes to tomatoes line, the body shop vitamin C line, and the body shop tea tree line. My absolute favorite would be my clarisonic though 🙂
Love this post! Anna Lise was a volunteer youth leader at my church while she was at Davidson so it was fun to see a familiar face. (I’m a 2011 grad) My favorite beauty product right now would have to be Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Spray. It is great for flyaways and is a dry oil so it doesn’t weight down hair. The only person I wouldn’t recommend it for would be someone with very oily hair.
st. ives apricot scrub!
Favourite product, bar none, is organic argan oil.
While I do not like to pile on lots of make-up, I am a fan of foundation/moisturizer with some sort of sun protection. Even in the dreary winter months (I’m from Ohio) the UV rays can damage our skin. My favorite beauty product is probably BB cream because it has a moisturizing effect, a tint, and SPF- it helps me keep my morning routine fast and simple.
Argan oil
I love Philosophie’s exfoliating facial wash!
I use organic coconut oil as a lip moisturizer before bed 🙂
I love Aveeno Daily Moisturizer. It has SPF and leaves my face moisturized and not oily.
I have been struggling to find the right products for my picky skin for years! I recently discovered Clinique’s redness reduction moisturizer. It seems to be doing the trick, but is awefully pricy.
Great info! These days, I’m loving Burt’s Bees Night Cream & lip stains.
recently i’ve started using coconut oil for almost everything – moisturizer, cleanser, shampoo, deodorant, etc! and i can’t wait to experiment even more with it!
My favorite beauty product is Olive Oil! It takes my makeup off beautifully and makes my skin so soft!
I love the clarisonic to wash my face, but I could definitely use some new product ideas!
I made the switch to chemical-free beauty products almost a year ago and now I use baking soda and apple cider vinegar to wash my hair. Argan oil and coconut oil are also favorite products for me!
I’ve just recently been thinking about skincare. I wash with Dove and go. I think it’s time to start using other products.
I know you’re working on it, but just wanted to say this is still the most current post I can see. Using google chrome on an android device in case that matters.
Uggg I’m sooo sorry! I can’t figure out why this is still happening! Reporting it asap
My skin’s pretty tough, but strong fragrance gets my allergies going. If you have a Costco nearby, the Olay Regenerist Serum is about double the size and the fragrance-free version. I love this serum!
Wow Kath! I’m a long time reader, first time commenter and I just wanted to tell you how much I LOVE your site. I don’t think I’m eligible to win the giveaway as I live in a different country. I know you’ve had to scale back on your posts being a busy mom and all, but I really do look forward and get so excited when I see a new post from you! It totally makes my day!! BTW I think you have beautiful skin (I have terrible acne and wrinkles and NOTHING I tried has helped). I wish my skin looked like yours!! All the best Kath!
Thanks for your comment Jenny! All the best. And since Anna Lise can video chat anywhere I’m sure overseas is OK
i need to bookmark this! loved it! thanks anyway