As I age, I love and appreciate gadgets more. I had always invested more into makeup during my college days, but in the past couple years, I have realized how much luxurious performance tools cut down on my prep time. Styling my hair is effortless because my arms don't get tired, and applying my foundation and false lashes becomes less of a chore and more of an adventure. In general, good tools make my life a whole lot easier. Today I will be reviewing these unsung heroes because they have vastly improved the quality of my beauty life. Details after the jump!
Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin. Show all posts
5.02.2015
TOP 5 | My Must-Have Beauty Tools
As I age, I love and appreciate gadgets more. I had always invested more into makeup during my college days, but in the past couple years, I have realized how much luxurious performance tools cut down on my prep time. Styling my hair is effortless because my arms don't get tired, and applying my foundation and false lashes becomes less of a chore and more of an adventure. In general, good tools make my life a whole lot easier. Today I will be reviewing these unsung heroes because they have vastly improved the quality of my beauty life. Details after the jump!
Labels:
beauty tools,
Beautyblender,
foreo,
hair tools,
makeup sponge,
mirror,
simplehuman,
skin,
T3 Micro,
vanity
6.13.2014
My TOP 5 Cleansers featuring TATCHA, Clarins, SK-II, Laneige, and Sulwhasoo
I have received several inquiries asking which cleansers I use, so here is a round-up review of my Top 5 picks! These are on heavy rotation, meaning I use them interchangeably depending on my mood and skin's needs.

I have been using the SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser ($70 USD) almost every day in the mornings for the past several months. I purchased my first bottle several years ago and am glad to have started using it again. I recommend applying it with very little pressure using the meat of the fingertips since this is so effective that there is no need to rub it in or tug at the skin. It leaves my skin feeling conditioned and smooth yet perfectly clean. I highly recommend it for those with acne-prone skin because it does not irritate blemishes. I adore the subtle rose scent and a little goes a long way, so each tube will last me six months or more! I recommend using a pearl-sized amount every time. The foaming effect should be light and milky, so avoid using more to amp up the bubbly lather.
My friend Leanne introduced me to the Clarins Water Comfort One-Step Cleanser ($35 USD), and I am in love! I soak a Shisiedo cotton pad with it and wipe down my face and neck. The refreshing sensation and the scent of the peach essential water in the formula wakes me right up! Now, do keep in mind that I never ever use this on my eyes or in the evening. I reserve this for mornings when I am too tired to wash my face using SK-II's cleanser.
NOTE: If this cleanser doesn't sound appealing, try the Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, which is truly the best for all skin types because it does not disturb the skin's natural moisture balance. I love the invigorating orange scent and have repurchased it multiple times over the span of four years.
My friend Leanne introduced me to the Clarins Water Comfort One-Step Cleanser ($35 USD), and I am in love! I soak a Shisiedo cotton pad with it and wipe down my face and neck. The refreshing sensation and the scent of the peach essential water in the formula wakes me right up! Now, do keep in mind that I never ever use this on my eyes or in the evening. I reserve this for mornings when I am too tired to wash my face using SK-II's cleanser.
NOTE: If this cleanser doesn't sound appealing, try the Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, which is truly the best for all skin types because it does not disturb the skin's natural moisture balance. I love the invigorating orange scent and have repurchased it multiple times over the span of four years.
Sulwhasoo is one of my must-have skin care brands. Everything I have tried thus far, I love. The Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Ginseng Exfoliating Gel ($60 USD) is technically a wash-off mask but the instructions direct you to use it like a cleanser, so I use it in the mornings twice a week. I rub it on in circular motions for two to three minutes and rinse it off. Despite hyperpigmentation and texture issues from my unfortunate bout of cystic acne last year, my skin still feels soft and supple. After using this Exfoliating Gel, however, my skin feels baby soft and also looks more plump! You can use this after washing your face at night if you prefer — as a mask like its intended use — and I actually recommend that if you have combination to oily skin.
My Holy Grail evening cleanser is the TATCHA Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil ($48 USD). It feels much more like a gel cleanser than a standard cleansing oil, so this is ideal for those who have avoided cleansing oils in fear of clogged pores. The TATCHA breaks down makeup gently and easily and does not require double cleansing. I have used Shu Uemura's cleansing oils for nearly a decade — the Ultim8 and Anti-Oxi are best — but I occasionally have to use a foaming cleanser afterward. The TATCHA, however, is very expensive. In comparison to Shu Uemura's Anti-Oxi, the TATCHA is $11 more for the same 5 ounces, so I generally reserve it for filming days when I wear the most makeup. I really love how clean yet comfortable my skin feels after use and that I do not have to follow up with a foaming cleanser. It's a splurge, but I highly recommend this!
The Laneige Multi Cleanser ($22 USD) is the newest addition to this Top 5 line-up. If you like squeaky clean skin, the Multi is made for you! Since it is touted as a makeup remover and exfoliator, I use this mostly at night as the second step to double cleanse after taking my makeup off with a Shu Uemura cleansing oil. This affordable foaming cleanser is intended for all skin types, but I believe it suits normal to oily skin best. I avoid using this when my skin is on the drier end, since my face feels a little too tight afterward. Nonetheless, I love the fresh, slightly citrus scent and how well it lathers up with a dime-sized amount.
Another cleanser that I recently started using is Koh Gen Do's Oriental Plants Facial Wash ($45 USD). This hasn't joined my current rotation, but it's an excellent creamy foaming cleanser. It feels a bit more moisturizing than SK-II's but not as drying at Laneige's.
Please do not forget that removing skin care residue as well as oil and makeup build up is essential for clear skin! I feel that many skimp out on cleansers and place very little emphasis on cleansing without realizing the long-term effects that can occur. Skin care is a commitment that does not necessarily show immediate results, so I understand why people would rather spend more on makeup and shoes or bags. Pamper your face, however, and it will help your cosmetics sit better on the skin and even last longer throughout the day! Never sleep with your makeup on, and always remove your skin care in the morning.
Bottom Line: I switch up cleansers very often, but I will and do repurchase all of these featured here!
Please do not forget that removing skin care residue as well as oil and makeup build up is essential for clear skin! I feel that many skimp out on cleansers and place very little emphasis on cleansing without realizing the long-term effects that can occur. Skin care is a commitment that does not necessarily show immediate results, so I understand why people would rather spend more on makeup and shoes or bags. Pamper your face, however, and it will help your cosmetics sit better on the skin and even last longer throughout the day! Never sleep with your makeup on, and always remove your skin care in the morning.
Bottom Line: I switch up cleansers very often, but I will and do repurchase all of these featured here!
Labels:
Clarins,
cleanser,
cleansing oil,
cleansing water,
Laneige,
Shu Uemura,
SK-II,
skin,
skin care,
Sulwhasoo,
TATCHA
4.19.2014
Prep and Prime! A Foundation Routine feat. SK-II, Sulwhasoo, By Terry + Giorgio Armani
Welcome back to The RAEviewer! So many of you have requested a skin care application demonstration that I decided to create a 'Prep and Prime' tutorial. I will review and share how to layer my SK-II skin care products and then apply my favorite foundation primer of the moment. And since I recently released my Giorgio Armani Foundation Guide, I decided to follow up with my Armani liquid foundations and powder. Whether you prefer sheer or full coverage, properly hydrating your skin and allowing products to set will yield the most flawless complexion results possible! Hope you enjoy xo
Products Used:
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Brightening Fluid
Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk in 6 and Luminous Silk in 4
Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge Concealer in Shade 1
Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk UV Powder Compact in 4
Makeup Worn:
Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk in 6 and Luminous Silk in 4
Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge Concealer in Shade 1
Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk UV Powder Compact in 4
Cle de Peau Eyebrow Pencil in 204 and Holder
Tom Ford Summer '14 Eye & Cheek Palette in Unabashed
Dolce & Gabbana The Blush in Tan
Velour Lashes in Oops Naughty Me
*Use promo code RAEVELOUR to receive 15% off your order!
Nails:
Dior Gel in Tra-la-la and Front Row [accent]
Sweater:
Vince
Labels:
By Terry,
foundation,
Foundation Routine,
Giorgio Armani,
prep and prime,
primer,
SK-II,
skin,
skin care
4.05.2014
FAVORITES: March 2014 Beauty [Makeup, Skin Care, and Brushes]
March was a long yet productive month, and as usual, was full of beauty discoveries! I did my best to include as many fresh and brand new releases as possible, but I included some classics like Armani's Luminous Silk as well as St. Tropez's tanning products for good measure. Also, I included a couple more makeup brushes at the end of the video since the reviews are so highly requested! I realize that many of you are waiting on a Hakuhodo brush guide, but I am planning to hold off until I purchase the rest of the brushes on my wish list. My SUQQU Face Brush was finally delivered from Selfridge's after a few months of sitting on the wait list, so you can look forward to seeing a feature here on the blog in April's Favorites video! If you have any other review requests, please feel free to list them in the comment section below xo
Products Reviewed:
SK-II Whitening Clear Lotion
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundations in 4 and 5.75
By Terry Ligne Blackstar Eyeliner [Review HERE]
EM Michelle Phan Scribble Eyeliner [Review HERE]
Marc Jacobs Remedy Concealer in 2 Wake-up Call
St. Tropez Tanning Mousse, Body Polish, and Tanning Mitt
*Use promo code RRST2 to receive 20% OFF your St. Tropez purchase!
*Use promo code RRST2 to receive 20% OFF your St. Tropez purchase!
Hakuhodo S103 Pointed Powder Brush
Wayne Goss 'The Face Set' Brushes
Makeup Worn:
EM Michelle Phan Concealer Palette in Light
Marc Jacobs Remedy Concealer Pen in 2 Wake Up Call
Koh Gen Do Triple Lighting Powder Foundation in OC-1
Cle de Peau Eyebrow Pencil in 204 and Holder
Kevyn Aucoin The Eyeshadow Duo in #207
By Terry Ligne Blackstar Eyeliner in Black
Giorgio Armani Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in Black
Dolce & Gabbana The Blush in Tan 22
Lancome Juicy Tube Lipgloss in Daiquiri
Velour Lashes in You Complete Me
*Use promo code RAEVELOUR to receive 15% off your purchase!
Hoodie:
Wildfox Couture I am Ocean Daydream Hoodie
Nails:
Tom Ford Lacquer in Coral Beach
Hair:
Labels:
By Terry,
concealer,
dior,
em cosmetics,
em michelle phan,
Giorgio Armani,
Hakuhodo,
liquid eyeliner,
Marc Jacobs,
mascara,
SK-II,
skin,
skin care,
St. Tropez,
Wayne Goss,
YSL
3.16.2014
Spring 2014 Fashion & Beauty Haul + Update on Fitness & Tieks!
Call me crazy, but I always wish haul videos could be longer! There is so much to show, but alas, I picked only the latest and greatest to share. For added variety, so I decided to update you on some goodies I had purchased before and have been using/wearing — such as my Tieks and Mat Lumiere foundation! I hope you find this helpful and inspires you to branch out this Spring, whether that means getting in shape for bikini season or just changing up your skin care routine! xo
Haul Products:
Nike Lunar FlyKnit Sneakers in 6
Chinese Laundry Elise Collection Accomplice Booties in 5.5
Tieks Flats in Metallic Pewter in 5
Jack by BB Dakota Caitlin Coat in XS
SK-II Facial Treatment Mask
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Marc Jacobs Remedy Concealer Pen in 2 Wake Up Call
Troy Surratt Lip Lustre in Coquette
Chanel Mat Lumiere Liquid Foundation in 20
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector SPF 25 in Pearl
Becca The One Perfecting Brush
Makeup Worn:
Chanel Mat Lumiere Liquid Foundation in 20
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard [blemishes]
Tarte Amazonian Clay Airbrush Foundation in Fair-Light Honey
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector SPF 25 in Pearl
Cle de Peau Eyebrow Pencil Cartridge in 204 and Holder
Tom Ford Bronzing Powder in TerraTom Ford Blush in Frantic Pink
Tom Ford Eye Defining Liquid Liner Pen in Deeper
Chanel Ombres Essentielle in Gri-Gri
Dior Iconic Overcurl Mascara in Black
YSL Glossy Stain in 25 Fuchsia Neo Classic
Velour Lashes in Girl You Craazy
*Use promo code RAEVELOUR to receive 15% off your purchase!
Sweater:
Wildfox Couture V-Neck Baggy Beach Jumper in XS
Nail Polish:
Givenchy Rose D'Exception
SHOP THE POST
3.05.2014
Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Brightening Fluid and Cream Reviews, Photos
2.02.2014
Evening Skin Care Routine + GIVEAWAY: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream Intense Hydration & Overnight Hydrating Masque
Winter usually results in dry and/or dehydrated skin, so today I will be sharing my little secret for banishing those unsightly flaky patches that you may be experiencing! As I age, my skin treads a fine line between normal and dry, so I must properly hydrate my skin to prevent fine lines and of course, prep the skin for best makeup application. I have been using two new lifesavers from Kiehl's that have made a huge difference in my skin's condition, and you'll have to opportunity to enter to win a pair of your own! We will be choosing 5 winners, so make sure to watch the video for all giveaway guidelines.
Note: Giveaway entries posted here will not be accepted. Please follow all rules to participate.
Skincare Used:
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream Intense Hydration [for daily use as moisturizer, AM and PM]
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque [for plump & baby soft skin, 1 or 2x per week]
Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution [for hyperpigmenation]
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate [for extra dry patches]
Makeup Worn:
Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation in 213 mixed with SUQQU Frame Fix Foundation in 003
Tom Ford Bronzing Powder in Terra
Cle de Peau Eyebrow Pencil Cartridge in 204 and Holder
Lancome Hypnose Drama Waterproof Mascara
Tom Ford Eyeliner Pen in Deeper
Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick in 103
Giorgio Armani Flash Lacquer Lipgloss in 107
Velour Lashes You Complete Me
*Use promo code RAEVELOUR to receive 15% off your purchase!
Sweater:
Wildfox Couture Baggy Beach Jumper
Nails:
SHOP THE POST
1.30.2014
Biotherm White D-Tox, Biosource, and Aquasource Skin Care Reviews + GIVEAWAY
Friday, January 31st marks the day of the 2014 Chinese New Year, and celebrations are well underway in Asia! Many Asian Americans do participate in the festivities with family gatherings and the symbolic red envelopes, but today, I turn the spotlight on skin care with Biotherm!
Biotherm is a French luxury skin care brand that incorporates active aquatic ingredients to create advanced skin care solutions. It is very popular in France, Canada, and of course, China. I had seen some of my favorite Asian Instagrammers posting photos and reviews of their Biotherm goodies last year, so I was very excited to try these products.
I will share with you 8 iconic Biotherm products, since 8 is the lucky number of the Chinese. Let's begin with the newest whitening products! White D-Tox is a gentle brightening line of skin care that fights against skin pigmentation at every step.
I will share with you 8 iconic Biotherm products, since 8 is the lucky number of the Chinese. Let's begin with the newest whitening products! White D-Tox is a gentle brightening line of skin care that fights against skin pigmentation at every step.
- The White D-Tox Clarifying Lotion ($33 USD) is a toner with a fresh, lively fragrance that will contribute to a more even-toned complexion. Skin instantly looks more radiant and feels hydrated without looking oily or greasy. I apply this to the face and neck with a cotton pad after washing my face and follow with the White D-Tox serum.
- The White D-Tox Liquid Light ($80 USD) is a 'triple illuminating' essence. This silky serum will help to create a more translucent complexion while hydrating the skin. It has a sweet floral scent that fades quickly, and it has a milky pink tint that instantly brightens. As recommended, play "piano" on your cheeks and pinch and pat the skin until it is fully absorbed, about 2 minutes.
- The Biosource Total and Instant Cleansing Micellar Water ($22 USD) does not irritate my skin or cause acne flare-ups. I am very particular with the cleansing waters I use, but this Biosource version removes makeup easily but gently. I use two damp cotton pads to remove a full face of makeup, though I still reserve my waterproof mascara for heavy duty cleansing oil. When my skin is particularly sensitive or dry, I will wash my face with cleansing water instead of a traditional face wash or cleansing foam.
- The Biosource Exfoliating Gel ($22 USD) is a cleanser ideal for everyday use on combination skin. It has a lightweight texture without leaning watery, and the mild exfoliating beads should not irritate even the most sensitive skin. It has a very refreshing scent!
- The Cleansing Shower Milk ($27 USD) is a soap-free milky formula that is ideal for very dry skin since it is enriched with ultra-nourishing agents. I love the citrus essences of this body cleanser, and the formula's moisturizing agents effectively cleanse while pampering my dry skin.
- The Aquasource Deep Hydration Replenishing Gel for Normal or Combination Skin ($39 USD) is my favorite Biotherm product. I am so glad to have discovered this because as much as I prefer fresh, cool gels to thicker creams, it has been difficult to find a gel that sufficiently hydrates. This mint-tinted, oil-free moisturizer has a dense, plush gel texture, so it is ideal for night time use. After all these years working in beauty, the Aquasource Replenishing Gel is most likely the best mid-range moisturizer for normal to combination skin that I have encountered thus far, and I look forward to using this all year round. It non-sticky and also does not contain any shimmer particles, which I absolutely love.
- The Aquasource Emergency Hydration Mask ($28 USD) is excellent for immediate relief of dry patches. I also love to use it on my hands, which are prone to extreme dryness. The creamy gel mask goes to work as soon as I massage it in. I leave it on for ten minutes and wipe off the excess with a damp cotton pad without rinsing for plump, supple skin.
- The Aquasource Biosensitive Eye Cream ($33 USD) was specifically developed to relieve redness, tightness, and tingling sensations while instantly smoothing eye features and reducing puffiness. I save my rich eye creams for my night-time routine and reach for this lighter, fluid eye cream for day use and under my makeup.
I was pleasantly surprised with my first Biotherm experience, and I highly recommend the Aquasource Deep Hydration Replenishing Gel as well as the Biosource Cleansing Water. To celebrate the 2014 Chinese New Year, BIOTHERM is offering you a discount of $20 OFF any purchase over $80 with the promo code HORSE. This code will be active until February 3rd!
Now here's an opportunity to win your favorite Biotherm product. Officially submit your entries via the Rafflecopter widget and leave us a comment to share which of the 8 products featured here intrigued you most!
GIVEAWAY [Open to US and Canadian Residents!]
a Rafflecopter giveaway
12.06.2013
Shiseido Benefique Skin Care Review + GIVEAWAY
Shiseido released a brand new skin care collection called Benefique earlier this year, and it is targeted at 20 and 30 year olds to boost skin's health and prevent signs of aging. The finest Asian botanical ingredients meets Shiseido's cutting edge science that boosts skin's inner strength, and revitalizes its outer beauty. Formulated with energizing nutrients like Tiger Lily root extract, Angelica root extract and Ginseng extract, Benefique delivers ideal solutions directly to skin. Check out the individual product reviews and enter the giveaway after the jump!
Labels:
Benefique,
cleansing oil,
giveaway,
moisturizer,
serum,
Shiseido,
skin,
skincare
11.11.2013
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Rose Gold Review, Photos, Swatches
11.04.2013
October 2013 Favorites [Hits & Misses] Featuring Guerlain, Chanel, 3LAB, EM Michelle Phan, etc.
October was a relatively relaxed beauty month. As some of you may have noticed, I was unable to post twice a week as I generally aim for. I experienced a few issues with my stomach and body aches the past couple weeks, but I am finally getting better! It feels good to film again, so I hope these favorites will be useful. Guerlain nail polish formulas are really giving my Chanel collection a run for the money, though I will always prefer Chanel's color selection. I am also loving Benefit, especially the new lip gloss I reviewed and the Gimme Brow Gel that I will use in a video later this week (please stay tuned)! I had to cut the Gimme Brow out of the video due to time constraints, but I know many of you are looking forward to a tutorial so I will feature it in action.
And if you haven't read my Best of 3LAB Review, please do check it out HERE because I think I have discovered my Holy Grail skin care brand. The products are expensive, but I have never been so pleasantly surprised by anti-aging skin care in years! Many of my readers and viewers think I still look young, but I am nearly 25 and can see slight signs of aging on my forehead. I am doing what I can to prevent the wrinkling from deepening as best as I can and reduce pigmentation/scars while I am at it! Last but not least, do check out the EM Cosmetics Waterliner eye pencils, which have incredible staying power on the waterlines. I am so thrilled with how budge-proof the metallic shades like Ro's Gold and Turquoise are!
Products Reviewed:
Guerlain Nail Polishes in 463 La Petite Robe Noire and 64 Gemma
Guerlain Gel Top Coat
Guerlain Protective Base Coat
Guerlain Holiday 2013 Ultra Violet Top Coat [Limited Edition]
Chanel Le Vernis Nail Polishes in 593 Rose Moire and 677 Rouge Rubis [Limited Editions]
Lancome DreamTone Serum in 1
3LAB Super "H" Serum
3LAB The Serum
3LAB The Perfect Cream
Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream
Lovers + Friends Soiree Peplum Black/Lace Top in XS
DailyLook Crystal Owl Ring in Gold
DailyLook Solitaire Textured Midi Ring (Size 3)
DailyLook Double Band Midi Ring (Size 3.5)
EM Michelle Phan Waterliner Eye Pencils in Emerald, Ro's Gold, and Bronze Kiss
Makeup Worn:
It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness
It Cosmetics Celebration Foundation in Neutral Medium
Shu Uemura Lightbulb Liquid Foundation in 554 Medium Sand [Asia Exclusive]
Cle de Peau Eyebrow Pencil in 204 Natural Black [Holder Not Included]
Hourglass Visionaire Eyeshadow Duo in Suede
Hourglass Visionaire Eyeshadow Duo in Suede
EM Michelle Phan Waterliner Eye Pencils in Emerald, Ro's Gold, and Bronze Kiss
Velour Lashes in Whispie Me Away [NEW]
By Terry Mascara in Moka Brown
Benefit Boxed Blush in Rockateur
Guerlain Maxi Shine Lip Gloss in 463 La Peitite Robe Noire
Hair:
Natural [No Product or Styling]
Nails:
Guerlain 463 and 64 [Both Reviewed in Video]
Top:
Lovers + Friends Soiree Peplum Black/Lace Top in XS
Hair:
Natural [No Product or Styling]
Nails:
Guerlain 463 and 64 [Both Reviewed in Video]
Top:
Lovers + Friends Soiree Peplum Black/Lace Top in XS
SHOP THE FAVORITES HERE
Labels:
3LAB,
benefit,
chanel,
em cosmetics,
em michelle phan,
fashion,
favorites,
guerlain,
Hits & Misses,
jewelry,
Lancome,
nail polish,
skin,
skincare
10.25.2013
Best of 3LAB -- PERFECT Cream, C Eye Treatment, Body Cream, Facial Wash, and BB Cream Reviews, Photos, Swatches
3LAB is superior skincare straight from the lab. I was recently introduced to this brand by my sister, who is a big fan of the Perfect BB Cream. I insisted that no BB Cream could win me over more than the Kiehl's silicone-free BB, but she proved me wrong. The more I discover about this brand, the more I am convinced that beauty insiders who tout this as the perfect anti-aging skin care are correct! There are 3LAB products for every skin care need, like reversing the sign of aging, improving the health of skin or preventing future damage. Even celebrities like Jennifer Lopez are fans of the product, so check out the individual product reviews after the jump!
Labels:
3LAB,
anti-aging,
BB cream,
Body Care,
cleanser,
eye cream,
facial wash,
night cream,
PERFECT,
skin,
skincare
8.16.2013
THE TEN: Best Anti-Aging Skincare Products
Today is all about the best products for preventing the lines and reducing the dark spots that are a dead giveaway of a mature or maturing complexion. I have been using anti-aging products for several years now, and I attribute my lack of crow's feet and wrinkles (despite a wonky sleeping schedule) due to the preventative methods I have taken.
NOTE: Many of the products below are some of the best but not necessarily the most affordable, so I recommend exploring popular options from LifeCell, Juice Beauty, or Paula's Choice if there is a budget to be respectful of.
1. OLE HENRIKSEN Truth Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster ($48 USD for 1 oz)
An antioxidant-rich brightening and nourishing serum enriched with Vitamin C, the lightweight Truth Serum absorbs quickly and easily into the skin. This serum supports natural collagen production, brightens the complexion and minimizes fine lines. I love the iconic uplifting citrus scent that is not too tart or too heavy-handed.
2. CLARINS Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate ($85 USD)
This product is a groundbreaking serum grounded in plant extracts that is recommended for all ages, all skin types, and all ethnicities. The dual chamber system combines two formulas into one serum to make the skin firmer, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, produce a more even skintone, and minimize pores. This formula delivers on all fronts and and the beautiful floral scent calms the nerves during application.
3. LA MER The Regenerating Serum ($290 USD)
This serum has one of the most exorbitant price tags ever. Believe it or not, it is entirely justified. My lovely La Mer Sales Associate generously stocked me with samples last year, which I've been using sparingly. I plan to splurge on the 1 oz bottle soon since it makes a noticeable difference in the feel of my skin. The texture is silky, gliding across the face and soothing redness as well as imperfections.
4. JENU Active Youth Eye Treatment ($52 USD)
You do need to purchase the JeNu ultrasound wand to get the most of this eye cream, but it might be an investment worth making. Techies will especially love it since this 'activated' Eye Treatment will improve the appearance of wrinkles in as few as 14 days. I saw a difference in restored skin elasticity and more importantly, refined texture of the eye contour with regular use.
5. LANCÔME Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Eye Cream ($68 USD)
A luxurious eye cream enriched with multi-tension technology to lift and firm the skin. I love the richness of the cream, but it absorbs quickly. The eye contour area feels smoother and firmer, while eye bags are deflated and dark circles are reduced. I also recommend the Rénergie Eye Multiple Action if you want an eye cream that comes stacked with a sheer concealer 'veil' that helps to brighten up the whole face. It's a very efficient, travel-friendly treatment.
6. LANCÔME Genifique Repair Crème ($100 USD)
This is one of the best night creams I have ever used. Those with dry to combination skin types will appreciate the hydration boost of this formula. Most reviews online rave about how users saw a difference in their wrinkles after a few uses. I did not have wrinkles to start with, but my complexion always looked and felt more supple and refreshed after each use.
Note: This cream contains mineral oil so it might be best to avoid this one if you know your skin reacts negatively to this particular ingredient.
7. SHISEIDO Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream ($75 USD for 1.7 oz)
Prevent the first stages of line prevention with this richly textured, ultra-hydrating formulation. I find it particularly excellent on normal to very dry skin because it is very effective at boosting skin's resilience. My grandmother swears by this Super Revitalizing Cream and prefers it to even more expensive options. This product makes a great gift for moms.
8. KATE SOMERVILLE Daily Deflector Waterlight Sunscreen ($48 USD for 1.7 oz)
This ultralight formula blends effortlessly into the skin, provides hydration, broad spectrum SPF 50+ protection, and antiaging benefits. It works well alone and under makeup. You can read the full review here, but this is a sunscreen worth trying even if you don't like SPF. Always remember that sunscreen is the best investment in preventing lines or wrinkles and discolorations.
9. DIOR DiorSnow White Reveal UV Shield Sunscreen ($58 USD for 1.3 oz)
Dior's face sunscreen will defend and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft and even. The DiorSnow range is excellent in its own right and is an ideal alternative to the Kate Somerville sunscreen for those with dry skin. I have tried both the older discontinued as well as the newly reformulated and repackaged UV Shield formulas.
These exclusively formulated pads were designed to cleanse skin, clear up blackheads, refine pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. The glycolic and beta hydroxy acids clarify the skin instantly. This formula is one of the few that combats my blackheads effectively, and the 60 dual-textured pads can be cut in half to last up to 120 uses. I use these once or twice a week as a toner (no rinsing).




























