Beauty Ritual: Face

When I was in high school and college, I was often complimented for my "porcelain doll" complexion. I rarely got breakouts (usually just during that "time of the month") and my only complaint was that it took me forever to tan -- first I had to burn, and then I would only get that perfect golden goddess glow after the lobster red shell peeled off.

Then I hit 30 and all of a sudden I had acne. Me, the so-called "porcelain doll," with acne?! Well, I was fit to be tied. My old standby, Noxzema, wasn't helping, and I was desperate to find a way to clear my skin.

Three years later, I have finally found the perfect cocktail of products for my face. Some of them are tried and true items, while others are recent finds. I recommend them all very highly.
I've become a huge fan of Philosophy's products, particularly this face wash. It's gentle enough not to irritate my skin, but strong enough to get rid of dirt and makeup. (Why do I suddenly feel as if I've stepped into a deodorant commercial?)

2. Pangea Organics Nigerian Ginger, Sweet Lavender & Thyme Facial Cream
This is the best moisturizer I've tried for my face. It provides just enough moisture for my combination skin and allows my makeup to glide on seamlessly. 

3. Pangea Organics Italian Red mandarin with Rose Lipcare 0.25 oz
ChapStick should be afraid of this lip moisturizer. Very afraid. 

4. Philosophy Hope In A Tube Eye & Lip Cream 0.5 oz 
Another great product from Philosophy -- I mostly use it around my eyes to ward off wrinkles and puffiness. Because a little preventive care is necessary for us gals, especially if you're in your 30s like me (sob). 

5. Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage
Speaking of puffiness, this product is the best cure for puffy eyes. Whether your eyes are puffy due to lack of sleep, allergies, or a random sobfest after watcing that Hallmarks commercial again, this will get you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed again. (Okay, maybe not so much bushy-tailed. Because that would be weird.) 

6. SAMPAR Prodigal Pen
When "that time of the month" hits and I'm sporting a zit (or five), this helps zap them. I swear since I started using this product, my zits are starting to heal faster. I've even used it on the boyf (much to his bemusement). 

7. Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System 
I kept reading rave reviews of this product, both in magazines and on websites like Sephora. I decided to bite the bullet in January, thinking I could always return it if it didn't work for me (Sephora has a ridiculously awesome return-policy). It's now been two months since I started using my Mia on a daily basis and my skin has improved drastically. I am getting fewer and fewer breakouts and my skin feels tighter, healthier. I use this every night in the shower with the Purity face wash. I recommend getting the Mia Cleansing System because it's a.) cheaper and b.) more portable than the original Clarisonic, which makes it especially great for trips.

What products do you use on your face? Let me know in the comments!

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4 comment(s):

{andthisiswhatshesaid} said...

GOod to know, I haven't ever tried any of those!

Claire Kiefer said...

I LOVE these posts you've been doing about hair & face products! I'm sooooo interested in which products other people are using and loving. I've been very curious about the Clarisonic but have been apprehensive about spending the money . . . I might be convinced if you told me it was exfoliating too. :) My two biggest problems are dry skin (flaking!) and uneven tone.

I've tried a billion moisturizers, and although I like Benefit's Dear John, I haven't found one I'm 100% loyal to, so maybe I'll give yours a try!

Thanks! xo

Unknown said...

I've been slowly making the transition over to philosophy products and I love it!

Unknown said...

Hi Ana! Its alicia - great post! Very very helpful. I've been searching for a skin-care regime to follow, and this has been quite helpful! totally looking forward to using the clarisonic. Keep up the great work!