Jill Smokler, AKA Scary Mommy
@scarymommy
Latest posts by Jill Smokler, AKA Scary Mommy (see all)
- The Disney Reveal - May 14, 2013
- Met My Match At Disney… - May 13, 2013
- Sunday’s Baltimore Sun - May 11, 2013
I have been searching my whole life for a mascara that, after 4+ hours of wear, doesn’t end up all smudged under my eyes. I’ve tried them all from the pink Maybelline one that’s always rated top on Allure’s list to the most expensive one at Sephora. Nothing has stood the test of time. My eyes tend to tear, so I’ve always tried waterproof, but is that the wrong approach? I’m stumped. So, I’m turning to you, dear readers: Got any ideas? What’s your favorite?
And, while I’m at it, I take horrific care of my skin. I use Cetaphil in the morning and at night and a lotion with SPF during the day, but that’s about it. I know I need to do more, but I just don’t want to take the time to do too much. I also don’t want to wake up in 15 years kicking myself for not doing more. Got any low-maintenance skin care tips or products you like? Or, any beauty products in general that make life better for you?
Since we’re on the topic of beauty products, I thought I’d mention a few I can’t live without. No affiliate links or disclosures or any of that bullshit, just the stuff I use and love.
Chanel lip gloss. It’s by far the best I’ve found– it stays on, it’s silky and it has no taste- good or bad. I keep trying to find another that I like as much for less, but I just can’t. I just bought the grossest one ever from Revlon that went on like a glue stick and tasted like crap, so I’m sticking with what works. My favorite Chanel colors are from the Glossimer line. Coupled with a cheap lip liner from Target, it’s all my lips need.
I often get asked what products I use in my hair. I love Ouidad, a line specially made for curly hair. Their climate control gel is awesome and they have the best deep conditioner in the world for curly hair. If you use it and stick a shower cap on and sleep in it, your life will change. Seriously. I also use Curls Rock from Bed Head Tigi. It’s got a kind of nasty Something About Mary consistency, but it takes away frizz and really curls my hair up. If I’m broke, any gel from the drugstore will do, I just have to expect a little crunch with it.
The one trick that I consistently use for my hair is using a deep conditioner as a leave in. Most leave-ins are formulated to be light and not weigh hair down, but that’s the last thing I need to worry about with my moisture-needy hair. I use about a quarter size on wet hair and it really makes a difference. Oh, and I either let it air dry or use a diffuser made for curly hair. And, I never, ever brush it. Just a wide-tooth comb when I get out of the shower.
I’ve also been using a cellulite lotion by Nivea that I really like. The cellulite ain’t going anywhere, but the lotion smells amazing and absorbs really quickly. Plus, dimples are cute, right? Or, not.
Those are all my beauty secrets. What about yours? What are you using that we should be?
{ 133 comments }
I’m not even wearing mascara today because I always end up looking like a racoon! If you find the perfect one, let me know.
–>As a fellow curly haired person, I need to try that Ouidad because I’ve never heard of it. Before I get out of the shower I blast my hair with cold water and it helps keep the frizz down even though I’m applying mousse for curly hair (Garnier) after I towel it off a bit. Then I let it air dry on my way to work.
~deb
WebSavvyMom recently posted..Wordless Wednesday – Time Out
It’s really good stuff. Expensive, but good.
I like Aveda’s Be Curly. It doesn’t make your hair crunchy and calms the frizz and smells great!
Kameron recently posted..Some Saturday Sweetness
It doesn’t get any cheaper or low tech…and while I thought it sounded absurd the first time I heard about it, I use the oil cleansing method on my face and LOVE how my skin looks and feels when I’m in my routine. I can tell immediately when I’ve dropped off as my skin is flaky and yucky again.
I use a blend that I make of castor oil and flax oil (as I tend to break out and these were referenced as oil controlling and acne defense) Google it for many sites – perhaps one day I’ll blog about my routine on my own blog! LOL
Julie recently posted..HAPPY NEW school YEAR!
I’ve never heard of that!! I did use an oil from Decleor for a while that I loved, but I can’t take the price tag now. Odd how putting oil on oily skin can be a good thing.
I know!
It does seem counter intuitive at first, but since like attracts like, the oil that you massage onto your face dissolves the excess oils and dirt and makeup from the day and then with a hot washcloth, you steam it off and your face feels amazing!
I was hooked the first time I did it! I use my ring finger finger nail to VERY lightly do circles on my face and it, along with the oil itself, exfoliates better than anything else I’ve ever used!
Julie recently posted..HAPPY NEW school YEAR!
I’m totally with Julie on this one. Your face feels AMAZING after oil cleansing. The hot washcloth thing is the best part and it’s a must. I’ve heard coconut oil works very well, but I honestly just use cold cream from any drug store. I think I use the Pond’s one. I have oily skin, too, and it doesn’t bother it at all.
Alexis recently posted..i wish things could just be easier
Oh! oh! I have a good mascara! My eyes are sensitive and other mascaras would make them teary and stinging by the end of the day, and smudgy. The one that works for me is L’oreal double extend. It’s in a red tube and has the phrase “beauty tubes” on it. It takes a little more time to apply because you have to put this white stuff on your lashes followed by a coat of black stuff, but the result is that it sort of coats your eyelashes with these little tubes that, I swear, DO NOT smudge or come off until you wipe your eyes with water and your hands or a cloth. You don’t need makeup remover, but you sort of have to wipe your eyes with water. I love this stuff!
Beth recently posted..funding the crayola machine
Is it smudge-resistant in humid climates?
My best friend has been raving about that one– the tubes freaked me out, but I’ll give it a shot!
My secret is don’t bother. I can’t remember the last time I wore makeup. I don’t have the time, or the energy LOL. I do put a dab of curl control gel in my hair just to keep it from frizzing out.
I’m sure I’ll pay for this in 20 years.
Sandra recently posted..It’s OK to grieve
After years of difficult skin issues I sucked it up and ordered a clarisonic. Yes, it is expensive, but so is buying a bunch of different products for your skin. A minute at night, a minute in the morning, and no more adult acne. I’m using dermalogica products, but I think they may be too strong with the clarisonic, so I think I’m going to switch to something gentler.
jodifur recently posted..Finding Grace
you are not crazy in buying the Clarisonic. Because I am continually buying diff brands of skincare for my acne kids and myself and it adds up. Dermalogica was ho-hum for us.
Which cleanser do you use with the clarisonic?? Very curious about their products.
Rhonda Stansberry recently posted..Kodachrome
I use dermalogica, the clean start line, it’s for teenage acne. I think it is a little too strong with Clarisonic. I’m going to switch to something gentler soon. My face is clear, but is not becoming dry.
jodifur recently posted..Finding Grace
Lately, I switched to Mario Badescu’s skincare line. For the first time in my life I began using an actual night cream as well as an eye cream. Wow, what a difference. I live in the desert (Utah) and my face is parched. Best part about the Mario Badescu products is that you go onto their site, and take a quiz about your complexion…they will send you an email asking if they can send you samples of the products that are right for your skin. DO IT! Because they literally sent me 8 samples, a complete set of products. All free. They lasted me about a week and a half. The eye cream sample Im still using. I ended up buying 5 of the products in regular size, intend to buy them all when I have the moola. I love to see a company thats not stingy about getting people to use their products.
I’m also trying out Skincerity. From a sample, I’ve yet to buy any. Its a funky leave on mask thats supposed to do all sorts of good things. So far so good. It’s a MLM company, so I know that will get some people’s panties in a bunch.
Can’t wait to read other’s fave products. I’ve been reading recommendations on beautylish.com for a few weeks. Interesting.
I always see ads for Mario Badescu, but haven’t ever tried him- I’ll take the test and see what it says!
Are u putting the mascara on ur lower lashes? Once I stopped doing that & using liner on my lower eye I stopped looking like I was punched. I focus on my upper eyes & just comb the bottom lashes.
I have been using the Mary Kay 3 in 1 cleanser. Yes, I’m a consultant, but that is the one product I would buy no matter what. I use to use Cetaphil, too, but only once a day. I now use the cleanser twice a day.
SoMo recently posted..The BIG Sesame Street Giveaway!
No, never on the lower lashes and I’m still a mess every time.
My favorite mascara is l’oreal Voluminous, it wears well, adds volume, and doesn’t smudge.
Best eye makeup ever? Johnson’s baby shampoo. I know it sounds weird, but I wash my eye makeup off with it every night and it gets every last drop.
I’m also OBSESSED with Garnier Fructis hair products. I used to be a shampoo snob, but at $2.99 a bottle, my hair looks just as good as it did with salon products.
The Mommyologist recently posted..I’m Not Annoying And I Won’t Gush- But I Do Have A Great Hubby
Really??? And it doesn’t sting? I think I have some- so good to know.
I have exact same eye issues. The ONLY mascara I can wear is Blinc. The mascara actually goes on as little tubes. Never smears. Comes off only with warm water and gentle pressure from your fingers, so you can jump in pool, cry at a movie, and not emerge looking like a racoon. Doesn’t itch or irritate eyes. Heck, I tell so many people about this product, I wish I were working for them! (but I’m not)
Blinc and Clinique Almost Makeup are my two must-haves. As far as lipstick, my eternal question is: why can we send a man to the moon but not give women a lipstick that stays on for hours, doesn’t dry out your lips or get stuck to your hair–and most of all end up on your teeth! The closest I’ve come is Revlon Colorstay MineralGlaze, but it only solves the first 2 problems I’ll have to give your Chanel a try.
I’ve never heard of Blinc- is it drugstore or department store?
Mascara: CoverGril lashblast Volume in waterproof. Love love love it.
Lipstick: I, too, have been in the forever search for lipstick that doesn’t smudge, stain, and come off just by thinking about it… and I have FINALLY found the perfect product for me… Maybelline Superstay liquid lipcolor. You put on the color first, from one end of the tube (it has an applicator, because it’s a liquid) and let that dry. Takes all of a minute. Then the other end is a solid, clear moisturizing balm that you apply over the color. I don’t know that it lasts 16-hours like it claims, but I can make it through an entire day of work, plus lunch, plus a can of coke, kissing my son and husband, and it DOESN’T budge!!
For my skin I LOVE the DHC line out of Japan!! It’s olive oil based and makes my skin look and feel amazing!!
Never heard of that, either. Gah! I have some serious money to spend.
Waterproof mascara- I wear contacts and put drops in my eyes, this is the way to go. Less smudgey- I like the one in the orange container (Lash out?) I think Drew Barrymore hawks that one. Make-up artists pretty much across the board say go cheap on mascara is pretty much all the same.
“Face Stuff”- Keihls. Hands down. I’ve tried’em all. And I have sensitive skin issues, Keihls rocks. I go with their slightly foaming face cleanser and super-rich moisturizer (it comes in SPF as well just not high enough for butt-white little o’me. For that I rock SPF 55+ and usually do Neutrogena, though my make-up artist gags when I tell her that.) They have a killer cucumber toner for sensitive skin. You can buy on line and get it shipped if you don’t have a Saks or Keihls dist. nearby. Promise you will love it. Recently the TSA guy searching my bag held up my Kehil’s bottle and said “Well obviously this is obviously medicine so it’s OK for carry-on.”
Hair- Moroccan Oil. For us wavy but not gorgeously curly girls this is fab-in-a-bottle. Even the curly girls that I know love it. Smells great.
Chanel Lipgloss? Sounds worthy of a try. Lipstick falls off of me in 3 secs or cakes on and peels off- neither very attractive. I’ve been reduced to lip pencil fill in with a swoop of gloss. This lasts maybe 10 mins.
Betsy recently posted..Thoughts from the Dump
I LOVE the Moroccan Oil! It really does work wonders!
Jackie recently posted..On cookies and frustration
Totally agree about the Moroccan Oil– I’ve used it to freshen up my hair once it’s dry and it’s awesome.
Kiehls is the best! It is easy to use, not overly expensive or complicated. And it is really great for sensitive skin. I have bad eczema on my face and it keeps things under control. And I have been preached to about the Moroccan Oil from my sister. So, I may be giving that a try too!
~Laura recently posted..Here and Gone
If you’ve already mined the offerings at Sephora, then I’m sure you’ve already tried this but I use Diorshow Iconic. It’s supposed to be used as base for yet another Dior mascara but I use it by itself and it’s great. It doesn’t go on too thick which helps prevent late afternoon raccoon eyes. The other trick is to make sure the area around the eye is dry. I started using Make Up Forever High Definition Powder a couple years ago and it has changed my life. Seriously. I put it all over my face after most of my make-up but before my mascara and lip gloss. The powder is super light but keeps everything in place. Do yourself a favor and buy the application brush that goes with it.
As far as wrinkle prevention, my dermatologist told me to use something with glycolic acid in it everyday so I started using DDF Glycolic Exfoliating Wash. I use it once a day in the shower after I wash my face. It’s very easy and it has the added benefit of keeping pimples away. And I just started using Kiehl’s Cryste Marine Firming Serum under my SPF moisturizer. It absorbs into the skin quickly and feels fantastic.
Is that too much information? I guess I feel passionate about my products:)
Ilanarose recently posted..Parental Tweet
No too much information at all– I asked for it!
Oh Scary Mommy!
You make me smile in the morning!
I war almost NO makeup, it is a once maybe twice a month thing for me. I CAN do it, just truly do not see the point anymore, lol.
I have no issue using CHEAP eyeliner, eye shadow, lip liner or blush. I refuse to skimp on cover up or foundation, because my very sensitive skin will look like I am 14 and nervous about the big dance. I prefer mineral products for these, and with all of the various one’s offered I got hooked on an affordable option, Physicians Formula Naturals, carried at various drug stores and such, price wise comparable to Revlon, but you get more uses out of it! As for mascara, like SM, I have eyes that water or I sweat for some reason every time I put make up on, the only mascara I have found that does not run is by Avon (oh yes, AVON) and is cheaper than hell! They also have awesome sales several times a year for stocking stuffers and oh shit gifts (Ya know, that I forgot a friend or relatives birthday or other gift giving event, OH SHIT!).
Hair, well that is a horse of a very different color in my world. I am a pony tail girl 28 days out of 30. I was a rather huge fan of hair color for a LONG time, and for at home color I always use L’Oreal (sp?), for longevity, vibrancy, and best of all PRICE. I love tresume shampoo and conditioner, and use Aussie 3 minute miracle twice a week and love it (consequently, I throw it on pre-shaving, rinse post shaving, and it doesn’t add time to my routine). Bed Head products are amazing and affordable, and if I can find it for the right price I LOVE Big Sexy Hair hairspray.
For body stuff, I save pennies up year round and hit up Bath and Body works annual sales, love the scents but hate full price, so when I can get 5 for $30 on body spray or soap or whatever, I snatch it up, and once again, makes for GREAT oh shit gifts.
This isn’t a product boost or name brand per say, more like an I am a cheap bastard who still enjoys nice things and on occasion likes to look and smell good, and this is how I do it on a very small budget boost.
Hope some one can use this bit of random information!
Preggers/Jeri
I adore the Bath and Body Works sales— amazing. :)
I’ve been using Aveeno lotion for my face and some under eye serum from them as well. I really like it and it’s affordable! I use them every morning but as the evening nears I tend to get to busy/tired and usually forget.
For mascara I use Maybelline’s Full & Soft Waterproof mascara and it works pretty well! I only use it on the top and it last without zombifying me!
Jackie recently posted..On cookies and frustration
Dior show mascara is very good for me.
The following products are a beauty must otherwise I would look like a cave woman:
- Kiehls Creme de Corps
- Kiehls Ultimate strenght Hand salve (the best, works wonders on my sandpaper skin)
- Estée Lauder advanced night repair serum and eye cream
For a facial cream I am currently using the new Clinique Even Better, since the pregnancies have left me with a bad case of pigmentation (it works)
The hair : Herbal Essences volume ( I have hair so flat it looks like someone ironed it)
Ugh, my hands are a mess, too. I’ve heard that about Kiehls Hand Salve, I’ll give that a shot.
I always had that problem, and then I just switched to waterproof. I never have a problm anymore. I use the Almay eye makeup removers and it takes majority of it off evey night. Good luck!
I have the WIMPIEST eyelashes in the world as well as a problem with my eye tearing, have actually had surgery for it, albeit unsuccessful. I wear Revlon Lash Blast (the orange tube), WATERPROOF, and have NEVER had it run….even after being HYSTERICALLY crying…..snot bubbles and all. I wear it in the pool, still doesn’t run. And, I just use baby oil to remove it. I am lazy and use nothing on my skin, although, at almost 42, I guess I better start! GOOD LUCK!
Really?? I figured there was no hope with tears!
I don’t take great care of my skin, but I do like the Mary Kay products. Dove discontinued it’s facial care products, which I used for years, so I’m still testing out the waters and trying to find one I really like.
As for curly hair…something that has worked WONDERS for me is the Garnier Nutrisse Curl Enhancing Cream Gel. It controls the frizz, but does not make my hair sticky/stiff. I can actually run my fingers through my hair, which, before finding the product, was impossible. The best part? It’s cheap and available pretty much everywhere.
Kmama recently posted..Week in Review- 9-11-10
I’m with you Kmama!
I love Mary Kay too- particularly the Lash Lengthening Mascara- Best I’ve ever tried!
They changed a lot of their formulas a few yrs back and it’s really made a difference!
My daily regime- M.K. cleanser, the vitamin c serum (is soooo nice!) & moisturizer.
If going some where mineral powder foundation, blush, lip liner, lipstick, and mascara~ sometimes I add eye shadow~ Make up in 10 mn or less!
Love following u on Twitter scarymama!!! :D
Oops, I meant Garnier Fructis. The Nutrisse is the skin care line. ;-)
Cheap and available are key.
My favorite mascara in the world is Estee Lauder More than Mascara. I tried it when I was in college and my life got better! : ) My eyes watered with every single thing until this. It makes my lashes look fabulous! Not that I ever look fabulous anymore… : (
http://www.esteelauder.com/product/spp.tmpl?CATEGORY_ID=CAT637&PRODUCT_ID=2068&cm_mmc=GoogleProductSearch-_-Null-_-Null-_-Null
Try it! : ) You will be hooked!
Life with Kaishon recently posted..Things that make you go Hmmmmmmmmmm
Of course you do. I’ve never tried this one, either!
I have such a hard time finding good curly hair products! I will definitely try the TIGI curls rock!
Old School/New School Mom recently posted..Mystery Baby- Reveal Yourself!
I use Artistry for cosmetics and skin care. I do sell it, but I wouldn’t if I didn’t believe in it. My grandma was a big influence in my skincare and make-up choices. She introduced me to the “good stuff” at an early age. Since my skin is so sensitive, I have to be careful which products I use. I also love Clinique. I like their mascara and foundation. I still like Mary Kay. I also love Avon lipstick.
lesa recently posted..Honestly-
Like you, I don’t wanna spend an hour washing my face morning or night. I use 4 products. OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS 7-IN-1 Anti-Aging Cleanser
OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS 7-IN-1 Moisturizer with SPF 15
OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS Eye Transforming Cream(visibly younger brigher eyes..and it works)
The last product I use, was a tip my eye Dr. gave me. To wash off eye make-up, use J&J Baby Shampoo!! No matter if your mascara is waterproof or if your wearing enough eyeshadow that you could be mistaken for an artist palette it will take it off in ONE wash and rinse and if you happen to get it in your eye it doesn’t burn!! Oh and for the those who suffer from allergies it keeps your tear ducts from clogging!
Yes, beauty products help but there are a few things you can do to prevent those fine lines & crows feet from appearing around your eyes too early.
ALWAYS pat your face dry
ALWAYS dab any product around your eye using your ring finger(that finger uses/has the least amount of pressure) and LADIES!! ALWAYS ALWAYS wear sunglasses. I never go outside without them .. rain or shine even indoors, it…irritates the hell outta my husband..lol..but if I take my sunglasses off and squint they will go back on because SQUINTING causes crows feet. I started wearing sunglasses @ 16 yrs old, I am now 38 soon to be 39 and DO NOT have any crows feet.
You are the second person to say that about the baby shampoo- such a good tip!
The best mascara out there. I buy usually only MAC products, but when it comes to mascara…AVON all the way. My mom introduced me. It stays put all day and then in the hot shower you can just pull it right off your lashes, it is the neatest thing ever. I can not live without it. The good thing, sometimes they have specials of it where you can get it for $.99! I stock up!
martini mama recently posted..Challenge Day 14
WEll I guess it would of helped if i posted the link! LOL
http://shop.avon.com/shop/product.aspx?src_page=product_list.aspx&level1_id=300&level2_id=301&pdept_id=312&dept_id=389&pf_id=30926
martini mama recently posted..Challenge Day 14
Only you could make me laugh about a lip gloss that “went on like a glue stick and tasted like crap!” I use Proactive because I’ve got acne, but I’ve got no beauty routine. It’s fun to read everyone’s suggestions.
Lynn from For Love or Funny recently posted..What is your hidden talent
I’m somewhat high-maintenance, so this post is right up my alley.
I think skin-care is the primary thing we need to focus on. Once we hit our 30′s, I believe in regular facials. Don’t go to a med spa or fancy-schmancy spa. You can find a good (and inexpensive) aesthetician from a small local spa or even a nail salon. A good aestheticism can hydrate, exfoliate, and extract your skin better than you ever can. I do this every 6 weeks.
I use a variety of skin care products. For face care, I use Murad, Primavera, GloTherapeutics, Skinceuticals, and Doctor D. Schwab. These products are not cheap, but they work very well. However, I also really like PurMinerals and it’s a bit less expensive (you can find it at Ulta). I also like the cheaper stuff for exfoliating. Exfoliating is also key and I do it every day. My favorite exfoliating product is Alba, which you can find in a lot of stores. Whatever I do, the lotion I use during the day has to have SPF in it. I also rub that SPF lotion on my hands since, other than our face, the hands get the worst sun spots. My favorite body cream at night is Ahava.
Mascara – I love PurMinerals and BareMinerals mascara. They don’t run and they’re cheaper than most department store brands.
Make-up – I exclusively wore MAC since I was 16 until recently. I still like a few of their products, but I mostly use Pur Minerals. My favorite lipgloss is also Chanel! It’s by far the best lip gloss I’ve ever owned. My color is Giggle, in case you’re wondering. It’s perfect on it’s own or combined with any lipstick color.
Hair – I have curly/frizzy hair so I get a Keratin hair treatment (kind of like a Brazilian Blowout but without the formaldehyde) every 4 months to smooth it out. Because of that, I have to use their brand of shampoo/conditioner. But I also really like Goldwell, Pureology, Kerstase. They are pricier than most but when you got frizzy and curly hair like me, you do what it takes!
-Aimee
Aimee @ Ain’t Yo Mama’s Blog recently posted..Mental Monday- Anxiety- times 30
Ohhhhhh, I am dying to try the Keratin hair treatment — I just can’t rationalize it now, but I have heard amazing things.
It is amazing and you won’t lose your curl! There are great deals for it, too. I used to see it going for $300-400 and now many salons have it for half the price.
Aimee @ Ain’t Yo Mama’s Blog recently posted..Mental Monday- Anxiety- times 30
I don’t use much. I have really sensitive skin…really, really sensitive skin. I would have a tough time finding anything I could use…but then I ran into the new Avon line for “ages” and have found something that is fabulous. It made my red blotches go away, and really makes my skin look awesome. This is the stuff I use (you can get it way cheaper on ebay!)
http://shop.avon.com/shop/product.aspx?newdept=&s=frooglesearch&c=google&otc=ANEWREJUVENATEFlashFacialRevitalizingConcentrate&bnd=&pf_id=35100&level1_id=300&level2_id=302&pdept_id=323&ym_mid=&ym_rid=
And I’m also in love with the new “make your eyes brighter” mascara from cover girl…the stuff you buy according to your eye color to brighten them up. Love it!
Christina recently posted..Blog for a cure
I just discovered Lancome’s Hypnose Drama mascara and absolutely love it. I have runny eyes too and so far it’s been great. Plus it makes you look like you have false lashes on. The results are great. It was recommended by a make-up artist friend.
I’m no good at this. I break out like I’m 14 (almost 36) and I use garnier hair products for my out of control, frizz prone hair cuz I’m cheap.
But I do know that the deal for the month of september in the cosmetic department at Walgreens is the blue tube of the L`oreal double extend beauty tube mascara. LOL
Jen recently posted..that wont workand a new baby
I use Aussie haircare shampoo/conditioner mixing it up a couple days a week with the pink Neutragena Clean line (I have scary fine hair, I mean scary fine…) My skin ticks me off. It’s uber sensitive. I actually have been going crazy because I get acne. At 33. I’d like to rewind to the teen years when my skin was freakin’ flawless! I’ve tried proactive, clearasil, neutragena, Up and Up brand soaps; everything. I finally forked over $11 for a bar of Clinique sensitive soap. Literally bar soap (made me feel like I was raiding my grandmothers cupboard. What’s next Ponds cold cream? ;) Thus far, it seems to be helping. I’m pretty sure I also have rosacea but that would require a dr visit so for now I’m just coping.
As for mascara I’ve tried all of them too. Maybeline in the pink tube was my go to forever. But it was starting to be smudgey too, even the waterproof one. Now I have Revlon something something. Still smudges. And it’s allergy season so…I usually just have to skip it these days. So there’s my rant and rave about beauty products. Off to skim the comments for suggestions…
Blogging Mama Andrea recently posted..Review- Scotch Brite Greener Clean Sponges
My hubby’s aunt (who has been a make up artist in Miami for years) developed her own cosmetics line this year. Her mascara is the best! It’s water resistant, so it doesn’t smudge or give you raccoon eyes, but it’s not water proof so it comes off easily when you do want to wash it off. The coolest thing about her products is that they have a mirror on the side so that you can apply them without needing another mirror. They also have a light in the wand so that you can see your lashes better while applying, or if you’re applying somewhere dark. Her lip glosses have the light and mirror as well. I love them b/c they have have a touch of mint to freshen your breath and they stay on very well. And I’m not even giving this plug b/c she’s in the fam, I seriously love both of these products and use them every day.
http://beautyforreal.com/
Leslie recently posted..4am
I LOVE Aveda products for skin care and hair care, but they are way pricey. If it’s not an issue, I’d definitely say to try it. Due to budget cute :-( , I’ve had to find alternative, but none I’ve really liked. Aveda is all-natural too…no nasty chemicals. Their products are plant based.
If you find a good mascara, please let me know!
-FringeGirl
the domestic fringe recently posted..Parenting 2010 Style
I’ve bought Aveda stuff on Ebay before for a discount. Worth a try :)
Dianna recently posted..Remembering the Dead-Saints and Scripture Sunday
Oh, thank you for writing this post!
One of the things that I learned this weekend: flying in an airplane will flat out destroy my skin. (of course, one could argue I was dehydrated from alcohol, but that’s off the topic) It’s Wed, and my poor skin is finally showing signs of life.
I wear very little makeup — partially because I don’t have time, plus it always seems to run (eye makeup). I’ve used Avada mascara, as well as whatever Cover Girl stuff I could pick up. Nothing really stood out as fantastic. Reading this post, I’m hesitant to try anything expensive, based on your results.
Skin — I keep it simple. Wash with Neutrogena liquid soap, apply Lubriderm moisturizer, done. I tried Tiffany’s suggestion of Philosophy’s Hope in a Jar, and it did nothing miraculous, so I didn’t buy it again.
My hair is the POLAR opposite of yours — stick straight and tending to be oily. It’s looked like crap for a while — probably the results of two pregnancies/three children back to back. I’m back to using John Frieda’s stuff that’s color based. I have nothing to offer for curly hair.
Now — next time, tackle RAZORS — which ones work best without spending a mint.
I haven’t found any women’s razors that work as well as men’s. I love the Gillette Fusion– it’s AWESOME. Oh, and cheap conditioner (like the V05 dollar stuff as shaving cream.)
i hate women’s razors! i love the gillette fusion, too.
Alexis recently posted..i wish things could just be easier
Mascara: my favorite ever is Estee Lauder More Than Mascara. I’ve tried to switch to something cheaper – Maybelline Waterproof will NOT come off of my lashes, but that’s a bad thing, as some lashes seem to come out every time I try to remove it (even with good eye makeup remover)! More Than Mascara isn’t waterproof, which makes me sad, but it still stays on well. I like Diorshow Waterproof but it somehow ends up under my eyes sometimes. I also like Benefit Bad Gal Lash in purple – for brown eyes, purple mascara makes a huge yet subtle difference. It doesn’t look like the mascara’s purple, it just looks like your eyes somehow turned hazel. It’s magic.
SKIN: Cetaphil face wash is fabulous. Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair (especially the coordinating eye cream) and Idealist are great, but I’m trying hard to find something cheaper. Aveeno moisturizer is pretty good, has a slight glow and some SPF – but it doesn’t moisturize enough for me, so I often top it off with a tiny dab of Cetaphil moisturizing cream on my cheeks (the Cetaphil cream by itself is too heavy and the lotion version, like the Aveeno, is too light). St. Ives facial scrub is easy to add to your shower routine and makes a difference – any sort of good scrub does good things, definitely add a scrub if you don’t have one. And Olay Daily Facial cloths are wonderful, I used to get tons of them at BJs but now that we’re with Costco I can never seem to find them. The part about not needing a moisturizer afterwards is bullshit though.
I agree about the clothes- I liked them enough, buy they certainly don’t do it all.
I have had SO many problems with mascara. Even if it wears well it clumps on the brush and I end up with Tammy Faye Baker eyes. I have tried: Aveda, Clinque, Revlon, Maybelline (pink bottle with green brush is supposed to be the best…not!), Lancome, Mary Kay…and all kind of sucked after a while.
BUT, I did find a light at the end of the tunnel: Neutrogena Healthy Volume. Goes on well, doesn’t clump, wears pretty much all day without smudging.
Hair – clueless. Body – still in search of the perfect body lotion. Face: Clinique’s system has been the best with an SPF moisturizer for my face.
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I don’t think I’ve ever tried any Neutrogena makeup, but seeing how you’ve tested them all, I might have to.
I don’t know if you can get body shop stuff where you are but there mascara’s are great. I suffer too with the panda look but have found these too be long lasting and really easy to use. Same for their face ranges. To be honest I just use a moisturising face cleanser and then use the night cream from their nutrigenics range.
for an added bonus none of their products are tested on animals and they are sourced from fair-trade resources. If you are at all worried about those things ;-)
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I’m a Cetaphil girl myself and for make up (when I bother) I use BareEscentuals (sp?)
But just in case you didn’t have enough to evaluate when picking out new beauty products how about I throw a wrench into this… (click at your own risk, you might wind up paralyzed and unable to buy anything ever again)
http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/
Yuliya recently posted..Oh So Random
And this will render you in a corner eating your own elbows…
Yuliya recently posted..Oh So Random
I almost gave up on mascara due to the dreaded black flakes under my eyes situation till I found “blinc”. Buy it at sephora and bat those lashes all day long.
My fav is Oil of Olay Overnight Cream. I often noticed I am less wrinkly than my counterparts at this age.
Mascara- The falsies…LOve It!
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Ooh, I love Channel Glossimer too! I wish I was better at my skin care too. I like Neutrogena line for acne and fine lines (nothing better than aging skin that still gets pimples!). And the Neutrogena night cream is great too!
I have to say, I don’t like to spend much time on make up in the am. I use the bare essentials mineral make up and it’s quick, easy and never too heavy. Love it!
Thanks for the hair product advice…I’m going to try it. I have very coarse, wavy hair that I always try to straighten into submission, I need a better way:)
Melissa (Confessions of a Dr.Mom) recently posted..Crazy Soccer Mom
I never, ever straighten my hair– I don’t have the skill or patience!
I only use sunblock on my face. Usually I have Coppertone, but I always try to pick up something with moisturizer. The advice I got from my favorite aunt was use something, anything — you will get wrinkles (only surgery will completely get rid of them), but using lotion when your young will minimize them. I also like Clean & Clear cleanser. I’m bad, though, and only wash my face in the morning in the shower. I don’t wash off the make up at night, unless I’ve gone out with my husband and used everything (powder, eye shadow/liner, mascara). But that’s only about once every six months or so.
I really love Sauve products for my hair, but I have pretty easy, cooperative hair.
Wendy recently posted..It was only in her dreams
Waterproof mascara flakes really badly. I use covergirl lashblast(the original in the orange tube). I’ve tried lots of other kinds, form drug store to high end, and none of my favorites are much better than the lashblast. I have watery eyes as well and it doesn’t end up all over, BUT I do not put it on my lower lashes…I’ve pretty much admitted defeat on the lower lashes.
I am a philosophy gal when it comes to skin care, hands down. I love their line and my skin has never looked better. I use purity, eye hope and hope in a jar. WORTH EVERY PENNY. I have used Supernatural in their foundation and primer. Right now, I am giving the Too Faced primer a shot. I can wear it with or without foundation. Hides the large pores in my nose area. I got a Too Faced mascara sample awhile back and LOVED it. It is a different type of mascara formulation that I literally NEVER HAD A SMUDGE issue. When you wash it off, it comes off like little pieces instead of a smudge. Don’t let the ‘pieces’ thing scare you, they don’t end up in your eye. I used a whole tube of it and never had that problem. The one I used was Lash Injection Pinpoint Mascara. You should check it out.
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Favorite mascara is Fiberwig that you can get from Sephora. It is not cheap, but does not smudge and comes off with warm water. I wear contacts AND have sensitive skin and no problems over the years. Also, 1 coat = natural, 2 coats = falsies. Very versatile.
My favorite lipgloss is Loreal Infallible in Barely Nude. I apply, I eat, I do not need to reapply. It’s awesome especially given how often I eat.
Just the mascara and lipgloss alone makes me not look like death warmed over. Add some tinted moisturizer with Sun block (Neutrogena Healthy Defense) and some blush (Nars Orgasm) and people ask me for autographs, thinking I must be a model or something. (Ok, not really. I am 5’2″. I can maybe model for Gymboree.)
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Ohhhh, really? Stays on when you eat? I’ve never had that happen.
L’Oreal Bare Natural mineral mascara. Only kind I’ll ever use again. It’s soft on your lashes, doesn’t smudge. I’m a huge fan of mineral makeup in general and can’t stand anything else on my face anymore.
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This is my kind of post! I’ve destroyed lines of credit in my quest for the best beauty products. I even went to school for esthetics expecting my obsession to lead me to a successful career.
As far as mascara: Too Faced Lash Injection looks fantastic. It comes off in “socks” so it doesn’t ever smudge. The downside is that it smells like chemicals and starts getting super clumpy in the tube after a week. At $20, I need more than a week out of it. I was talked into Armani Eyes to Kill by a friend who works at a makeup counter. She said it’s the last mascara I’ll ever buy… it was $30 and totally average. DiorShow is very very good. It’s $23 and I’ll tell you – CoverGirl Lashblast is almost exactly like it at $7. I buy a 3 pack at Costco for $14. Sometimes you get what you pay for. Mascara is an exception.
For skin, I alternate Origins and Shu Uemura. I also love the $3 apricot scrub from the grocery store. I use it on my face and arms.
My favorite makeup; Nars lip gloss, powder and blush. Smashbox tinted moisturizer and brow powder. Urban Decay liners and eyeshadow.
My hair sucks. I buy Tigi products, dye it black and wear extensions half the time.
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I use mostly Beauti Control products, but my favorite mascara is the CoverGirl Lash Blast. I’ve tried the purple one (length and volume, not waterproof) and the orange (volume and waterproof) and I like them both. I like the brush because it does a fantastic job of separating my eyelashes which has always been a big issue for me.
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I have to second the Clarisonic. I bought one about 6 months ago, and I use it with my Cetaphil. I can’t afford professional facials very often, but using this has TOTALLY changed my skin. My pores are smaller, I have fewer blackheads, and it’s like a 1 minute facial every morning. I will say that it’s bigger than I expected, so if I were to buy again, I would probably opt for the Mia (smaller version).
I also have issues with bleeding mascara. I’m going to have re-visit this post & read all the reco’s. I’ve tried cheap & expensive & have sort of given up. Once you’ve spent $20+ on mascara & it’s failed, it’s hard to get excited to keep doing it.
I also have to give a shout out to Laura Mercier Foundation Primer. I bought the Flawless Face kit & not only has it lasted me a year, but the primer is FANTASTIC.
Ms. Amy recently posted..Dear Stylist-
I love the idea of a 1 minute facial every morning. I must try.
For skin care I like Oil of Olay Regenerating serum. I put in on in the morning and at night. It has SPF in it so I’m covered there too.
Mommie Daze recently posted..The Vacuum Cleaner Killed the Homemaker
i use maybelline in the pink and green tube. for a million years. i’ve tried others and never ever have liked anything as much.
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Buxom Lash by Bare Escentuals – sold at Sephora. I’m a very low-maintenance gal who relies on her eyelashes to get her by and this does the trick! It’s not waterproof but I’ve never had issues with smudging.
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Mary Kay powder foundation! I love it. It’s quick, easy and covers like a *decent* foundation. Most of the time all I have time (or energy) for is a swipe of that stuff with a powder brush, a little blush and some mascara.
I’m interested to read about the skin care ideas! I’m only 26 so I am still trying to deal with peoples AND moisturize. So frustrating. I currently use Proactive but that’s 3 steps morning and night… so it ends up being one or two steps at night… 4 days out of the week.
Mandi recently posted..My Life Before and After Kids
Well I am dealing with “peoples” too but I meant to write “pimples”! Haha!!
Mandi recently posted..My Life Before and After Kids
Mandi, glad you brought up the oily skin issue! I still have T-zone issues w/ oil, especially in the summer. One thing that you need to know, oil is not moisture. So, even oily skin needs moisturizer, just one that’s specifically for oily skin. If you keep oily skin moisturized you won’t end up with enlarged pores.
I used to teach this stuff in another life.
Barbara recently posted..Somethings coming its gonna be great!
You are definitely right to think about taking care of your skin! I worked for Lancome when I was in my late 20′s and started taking care of my skin then. I was a huge devotee of their mascara for years, until it reached the price of a decent used car. I ended up using Maybelline Full and Soft and have stayed with. I can’t use waterproof anything and don’t know why, but get a bad reaction. If you dust your lower lid with powder, (could be a shadow or just translucent powder) and don’t put mascara on your lower lashes it should help.
As for skin care, I love Avon’s Anew line. It’s broken down into age groups, which I think is brilliant. You don’t need the high octane stuff I need! But, even after using Lancome for years, I love the Anew line more… and I’ve saved enough to buy a decent used car! ;-)
One last note for those who’ve given up on wearing make-up… never lose sight of what attracted your mate to you. And besides, a little tinted moisturizer and lip gloss takes seconds to apply and is good for your skin!
Barbara recently posted..Somethings coming its gonna be great!
Need my Mary Kay ultimate mascara. Every.Day! :)
Just started using Cover Girl Lash Blast Length. I have used CG Professional Remarkable for years and then they changed the brush… and I fell out of love. I am loving the new LB Length… my lashes have blond ends, so it helps me look like I actually have lashes… it stays on without me ending up looking like a raccoon and it washes off with water if that’s all you’ve got… and you won’t have to take out a second mortgage to afford it!
I have the same problem with mascara and recently my mother-in-law told me about a generic brand that they sell at Ulta – Essence. It actually really works for me and I’ve tried hundreds! With the whoppin’ $1.75 price tag – I figure it’s worth a shot.
http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod1910087#reviews
I just treated myself to a fabulous facial this morning because my skins was feeling (and looking!) like crap. I have such problem skin with redness and hormonal breakouts. I have like 2-3 weeks per cycle where my skin looks good and I can get away with brushing some mineral powder on it, but then I get 2-3 weeks of shitty skin that needs massive cover-up on my red mountain-like puss-filled zits. Pretty, right?
I find that if you get any zits, be it a few or a lot, there is this product called Lerosett that’s the best! It’s a mask that you leave on for 20 minutes then rinse off. It’s cheap, last’s a long time. All natural, too. I don’t use it enough, though, becuase I am flat out lazy.
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I just walked in the door and looked in the mirror. And after all my big talk about knowing the perfect mascara, powder, etc. above, I have a big fat black smudge under my right eye. Now how long do you suppose I was walking around with that for??
Mascara smudge— it’s the new spinach stuck in teeth.
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Ugh, don’t get me started on skin care. I’m allergic to vitamin E and aluminum. Guess what two ingredients are in almost every moisturizer, foundation, lotion, and sunscreen? Yeah. I’d found a good skincare regimen for a while, but I’m having some serious hormonal acne lately, so it’s time to change that up. I think I’ll give the oil method mentioned above a try. I will say that Aveeno baby lotion works great and doesn’t have anything I’m allergic to, as is Coppertone’s Pure & Simple kids’ sunscreen. Foundation-wise, I’m currently in love with Sephora’s pressed mineral foundation – easy and great-looking.
I’m no help with mascara, having yet to find one that doesn’t get flaky on me. Luckily, I have crazy long lashes anyway, so I normally just curl them and go.
I am new to reading your blog. So far I think it is great! I have HORRIBLE Rosacia. I searched for years for a make-up that didn’t make it worse or burn. I foudn Bare Minerals to be my all time favorite and don’t use anything else on my face. They have this stuff you apply before you put on the make-up called Skin Rever-Upper. It is fabulous! I wear it even when I don’t put on the make-up. It has even cleared up my redness a lot. You should give it a try. The mascarra they have is awesome too. I am really sensitive to all makeup but the Bare Minerals has caused me no problems at all. Just my two cents. I love reading your blog. I can relate to alot of your post. Thanks for making me smile daily.
Cetaphil for washing
Clinique yellow lotion
Lancome Defincils mascara (the bomb!)
Cover Girl pressed powder
Neutragena lip gloss . . . but this Chanel one has my ears perked
Bumble + bumble hair gloss
and, realistially, most of the time I’m rockin’ Blistex on my lips
Kristen recently posted..what does it mean to be white
Love this thread!
I’m a make-up whore, always trying something new. Standing in my bathroom, now, looking through my current faves:
*Mascara: another vote for — L’Oreal Original Voluminous (not waterproof); I can even put allergy eye drops in & not get smudges.
*Eyeliner: Clinique quick liner; put on, smudge, then it sets.
*Foundation: Whatever current mineral pressed powder foundation I’m using, and always looking for a better one (currently, BeautiControl, Clinique, and Pur Minerals).
*Concealer: Clinique “all about eyes” changed my life, and ended my raccoon eyes….
*Blush: Whatever strikes my fancy (currently Benefit ‘Dandelion’)
*Eye Shadow (see under blush — Bobbi Brown & Target)
*Lipstick/lip liner — definitely gonna try the Chanel. Now, I have a reason to go see the uber make-up people!
*Always thought I hated their products, but….
Mary Kay eye make-up remover
Mary Kay hydrating freshener (toner) #1
Mary Kay Time Wise moisturizer
(before that, it was years of using Clinique skin care)
I love all kinds of mascaras, but the ONLY one that does not rub off all racoon-like under my eyes is Clinique. I recently bought their “High Lengths” mascara, and — this has never happened before — I had a friend ask what I was doing differently to my lashes. She thought I had bought falsies. It’s that good!
Andrea recently posted..All Apologies
I have sensitive eyes but am also bad about smudging mascara. I LOVE the plump potion. Physicians formula. It’s not easy to find as not every store that Carrie pf carries this magical mascara. Ulta does and target sometimes does.
I love smash box primers and their long wear lipgloss, fantastic.
Aveeno has some great face moisturizers with SPF and anti aging stuff in them so I generally use estee lauder moisturizers and their night repair is the bomb.
I also love the alma smart shade tinted mositurizer. It comes in I think four shades, they go on white and blend with your skin tone, light coverage a nd a good natural look. Sometimes I put cargo blu Ray HD powder over it for a more finished look.
AmyBlam recently posted..Tim Gunn is NOT my insurance agent…I’m glad we cleared that up
My only beauty secret is using body loikn every day. I don’t have a favorite brand, whatever is on sale.
Also drinking tons of water. I personally don’t do this, but I’ve heard it dies wonders.
I am all over the map with beauty stuff. I worked for Clinique so still use a lot of their stuff, but it’s not necessarily my favorite.
Makeup remover: oil (i just use cold cream because it’s cheap and easy to find)
Face wash: Clinique liquid soap for oily skin
Lotion: Clinique moisturizing gel for oily skin, then Even Better moisturizer with SPF 20
Makeup: clinique concealer (bad undereye darkness), CoverGirl Lash Blast (soooo good), bronzer (my favorite is clinique in sunkissed, seriously the best shade for all skin tones, just go easy with it–but i know you have beautiful porcelain skin so you probably don’t use bronzer), and lip balm/gloss.
Favorites: cold cream, Rosebud Salve (this stuff smells awesome and is good for everything–lip balm, cuticle softener, even moisturizer for dry spots like elbows), which you can get at Sephora or drugstore.com, Clinique Superbalm–it’s more like a gloss, but it’s really moisturizing and comes in really pretty sheer colors, Nars Oragsm blush, the Body Shop body butter in Coconut (makes me feel like I’m at the beach and it’s so moisturizing.
Hair: Biosilk, Sedu flatiron (this thing is expensive but it. is. awesome. not for you, because you’re smart and wear your hair curly, but for me, it’s a godsend).
And my best beauty secret: makeupalley.com. They have reviews of EVERYTHING, and people do really comprehensive reviews. I never buy new products without looking there first.
Sorry for the novel. I’m done now.
Alexis recently posted..i wish things could just be easier
ANEW Lash-Transforming Mascara + Serum is AMAZING! I always used mascara from Origins, then I started selling Avon and I try products before I’ll tell a customer something works great. I’m overly honest about the products. I hate buying something and having it fail.
For skincare try one of the ANEW regimens. They are easy and affordable. They are listed by your age and/or what skincare problems you are working on. I use the ANEW Rejuvenate line. It’s great for sensitive skin too.
You really should check out Avon. They have so many good deals and if you don’t like something you can return it anytime, no questions asked.
You’ll be hooked! I know I am.
http://www.youravon.com/marneywilliams
I am madly in love with Maybelline’s Lash Stiletto mascara. I don’t use waterproof; it makes my eyelashes fall out.
That’s all I got for ya!
I’m terrible with my hair. I often just wash and go, literally. But, I love Kiehl’s Cream with Silk Groom. Makes it so soft, and if you leave it in wet hair, you get a bit of weight and no frizz.
For my face, I always think it looks best when I do very little with it. Right now, I wash with either Purpose or Cetaphil, and use DDF SPF lotion and eye cream. I scrub 3 times a week, and it looks decent. The more products I add to the mix, the worse it looks (Plus the less likely I am to stick to a fancy routine.)
For mascara, I have the same problem. I get smudges and raccoon eyes and itching. I love Maybelline Full and Soft and MAC Mascara X. The first never bothers me, but the MAC stuff does get irritating on occasion. Benefit Bad Gal is great, but does give me itchy eyes by the end of the day.
That Maybelline Great Lash is crap. I don’t know who these people are that vote for it, but it’s garbage. Possibly ice on people with awesome lashes to start, but that’s not me!
Waterproof mascara can cause your lashes to fall out, since it’s much tougher to take off.
LZ recently posted..Wednesday
I am SO not picky when it comes to make up. If it is in my make up bag, I will use it. The only exception is lipstick. I canNOT wear traditional lipstick. For the last 9 years, I’ve used some form of ColorStay lipstick (not brand-specific). I paint it on in the morning, it seals my lips, keeps them moist and colored. I look horrible with pale lips, so I love having lipstick on that doesn’t wear off in 30 minutes.
Lolli recently posted..Rolling Rewards – Budget Bootcamp 11
I try to go organic whenever possible, but mascara has a preservative in it, so that’s not possible. My favorite is Almay. It doesn’t irritate and it doesn’t run.
OMG…i am obsessed with Arbonne face products. Have been using it for about 3 years. I use their RE9 face wash, day lotion, night lotion, eye creme and serum. It sounds like a lot but it takes 2 minutes and I cannot live without it. It is expensive and my one big splurge and it lasts a long time for a small bottle. I like to think my face is very important so its totallyworth it! haha My friend Teresa became a rep after we both started using it…so i buy everything from her.
this was post heaven for me.
***loreal double extend beauty tubes changed my life. it doesn’t even feel like mascara and it never ever ever smudges. it’s a little freaky the first time you rinse it off, but totally worth it.
***huge fan of the DHC line. request a catalog online, each one comes with samples of some of their products. the clean soap is awesome, deep cleansing oil makes my face feel like a babies skin
***i used kerastase, which is awesome…but ouidad beats it hands down and is less expensive. when you buy a starter set you get these great instructions and clips that changed my crazy curly haired life
***for lipbalm lovers try buddhabalm.com my favorite flavor is the burnt sugar fig. long lasting, no nasty aftertaste at all
Rice Flower and Shea body lotion and body spray from Bath and Body works is about the only fragrance I can tolerate on my body. After having kids, my body changed and I can no longer tolerate perfume……or any strong fragrance, really.
I still haven’t found the perfect mascara. I combo two. One for fullness and one for length.
Mineral makeup. CHANGED my life. Oh how I love it. Just brush on a little powder and I’m good to go. Oh, after some bronzer, lipliner (I’ve been wearing the same color from Lancome for YEARS because I haven’t found another one I like) and lipstick. I guess I’m higher maintance than I though.
Sigh.
:)
angie recently posted..My Life’s A-Changin’
I have always been on a quest for the best mascara. What I have found is that the applicator has a lot to do with how it is applied and wears. My favorite hands down is Dior Show and if you walk into a Sephora store, the sales lady will tell you it is one of their best sellers. The brush is amazing and it even smells good. I want a mascara that I only need one coat, I think the multiple coats along with having to comb your eyelashes due to clumps is what causes a lot of flakes. I use one coat and it never clumps.
I have curly hair as well and I used to use Ouidad products. I still like them but then I found DevaCurl. There shampoo does not use detergent so it does not lather but that is what dries out your hair to begin with. They sell a small starter kit to try and I was hooked. Everything smells amazing too. Love it!
I did try the Keratin treatment and I hated it. Okay, I liked it for about 2 days. But I could not keep my curls unless there is some trick I do not know about. Therefore I had to blow dry it straight for about 3 months. With the treatment it was easy to blow it out but both my husband and myself missed my curls. I do not think it was worth the money.
After reading your posts about the Oil-cleansing method, I ran out and made my own cleanser with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Castor Oil and I love it already, so thanks!
After having skin problems in my teens and twenties and seeing a very good dermatologist and being on serious medication, I have given up on makeup. The doctor suggested the Cetaphil line of products and I’ve been using those ever since (face wash and the spf lotion in the morning and night). Lipbalm with SPF every day. I have also found that the more hydrated I am in general the better the skin, so drink lots of water!! I also pre moisturize before getting on a plane and during long car trips since the AC dries me out. I have also found that using only paraben-free, sodium laureth/laurel (detergents) products for skin and hair lets everything pH rebalance naturally after a month or so of getting used to it. I figured, if I can eat it and be ok then it can go on my skin and hair, if not the it’s a no-go.
mmm… you’re going to get a million suggestions, but what’s one more?
I hate the pink mascara from Maybelline, or Cover Girl, or whoever. It sucks, in my opinion.
I rub my eyes a lot and for some reason my mascara always runs. The ONLY one I’ve ever had that didn’t run is COver Girl Professional Waterproof Mascara. 4 bucks at Target. I’ve tried a lot, and they all promise not to clump, not to smudge, not to piss me off. So far, this is the only one that’s worked.
Also, I use Neutrogena tinted Moisturizer – Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer with a hint of color. SPF 30. That way, I can leave it on and don’t have to worry about washing it off if I don’t want to. The coverage is minimal, so if you are splotchy you might need something more, but I love to use it in the summer when my makeup always runs off while I’m sweating! I just googled and I see that Neutrogena has other tinted moisturizers that are customized for skin tones, so maybe those cover better. I dunno.
Texan Mama recently posted..Inspired
I only use Clinique for makeup or skin care. Never had a problem with ANY of their products, and I’m wearing makeup all day, most days.
Gal recently posted..Drugs or daycare
Sorry I’m late to this party – but I’ve been without Internet for DAYS (yes, it’s been horrible)! Thanks for sharing your hair products – I’m always on the lookout for good ones (esp. for the days that I don’t torture mine into submission with the flat iron). My absolute favorite MUST HAVE beauty product is the Cover Girl Outlast lipstick. I apply it in the morning and that’s it – I’m done for the day – it really does last all day.
Gigi recently posted..Where Ive Been
Thank you to the person who introduced “makeupalley.com” Yet another website for me to pore over for hours…. *sigh*
Well, funny you should ask. Because for my birthday recently I splurged a bit by dumping all of my old products and trying some new ones. I’ve used Lumene Blueberry Curl Mascara now for several days, and I love it. No globs. Not too much. Doesn’t smudge–even during allergy season! Also trying Organic Wear tinted moisturizer and loose powder by Physician’s Formula. So far so good! I’m going to try your curly hair tips. My hair is a disaster. Ugh.
Jen @ Momalom recently posted..Bedtime Nightime Not over till morning
Okay, who wrote this post and what has she done with Scary Mommy?
An eyelash curler. That’s the number one item I can’t live without.
Glamamom recently posted..EATALY NEW YORK & LIDIA BASTIANICHS RISOTTO AL BAROLO
I was abducted by beauty obsessed aliens. I’m back now. And, I am so afraid of eyelash curlers. Just can’t do it.
It will change your life. At least I know what to get your for Christmas now!
Glamamom recently posted..EATALY NEW YORK & LIDIA BASTIANICHS RISOTTO AL BAROLO
Love reading the comments! Okay:
1) L’oreal mascara (volumizer? I can’t remember – gray tube)
2) Jane Iredale mineral powder (the BEST mineral powder)
3) Love the Nars lipsticks
3) L’occitane has the best hand cream, er…hands down. Seriously. I’ve read the other comments on other hand creams BUT THIS IS THE ONE.
Can’t wait to try the Channel lipgloss and Nivea!
As another curly hair gal I completely understand the “do not brush dry curls!” When my friends ask me if I have a brush they can borrow I look at them like they are crazy and say “do you not know me at all”. Rule number 1 for curly hair is do not brush it when it’s dry unless you want a frizzy mess!
Jenni recently posted..Weekly Wednesday Weigh In
neutrogena mascara is so light, it doesn’t smudge because I think it is more of a tint which I find perfect for everyday
I have curly hair too so can relate on all levels, Frizz ease secret weapon keeps my hair in check with out the crunchy curls mousse and gel create
For skin http://www.bioceyourlife.com, Bioce is all natural,none of the bad stuff you find in today’s creams, like silk on your face.. here’s a tip don’t buy creams with SPF in it, they should be separate, it will degrade the active ingredients.
Clinique. Expensive, but totally worth it.
i love this post because i am really into makeup and hair and all things pretty and i swear i am not really that vain..
…
my mom never wore much makeup when i was growing up so my sister and i had to find the light on our own and do a lot of trial and error to figure out what routine and products truly worked…and always on a budget. for face, i currently wash with a sample tube of shisiedo white lucent wash and it is wonderful! i sometimes have acne with other washes but this one, which lathers so nicely, has been a great find. i am using the sample size since it is leftover from my mom. again..always on a budget. then i put on a lotion for the day and my favorite is aveeno spf 15. it smells good and keeps your skin dewy and soft for the whole day even if you have oily skin (i do). for makeup, i have been using bare minerals for 5 years now and i will never go back to using anything else. it is perfect for people that don’t need/want a lot of makeup and it just stays put. i use the foundation and then finish with the bronzer each day. i NEVER leave the house without that but people are always surprised when i tell them that i wear makeup everyday since it looks so natural. then i use a brown eye shadow to fill in my brows, wear a light eye shadow to brighten my eyes, line with black eyeliner, and use mayballine volume express (the best mascara i have tried). i finish with burts bees shimmer lip balm in papaya. and i do all of this everyday. but it is so fast and i am out the door in five minutes.
for hair, i used to have the FRIZZIEST hair ever that could be turned into curls with the right product. then, after my pregnancy, my hair all of a sudden smoothed out. weird. but still, i wash it every other day and the shampoo doesn’t matter. for conditioner, i use some heavy duty stuff from biolage half the time and something cheap from sauve the other days to save money. a good conditioner once or twice a week is all you need. and i don’t put anything in my hair before i style. i run a ceramic iron through all strands (or just the outside layer if i am in a rush) and for special occasions, will finish with a little bit of hairspray. and like i said before, this is good for two days.
for body, palmers cocoa butter. nuff said.
wow writing this all out makes me feel like such a high maintenance girl but it is really not that much…just helps me feel a little bit polished each day.
The real L.A. love story. recently posted..The Making of King Ch 9
I don’t like to spend a lot of time in the bathroom, so I’m doing the minimum. I like the products from L’Occitane :
– Almond Apple Cleansing, Almond Apple Toning Cider and Almond Apple Velvet Concentrate for the face
- Organic Lavender Body Lotion
For the cellulite, I use coffee grounds (really cheap, I take the coffee grounds I used to make my morning coffee…) as a scrub 2 to 3 times a week. After the scrub, the skin is softer and some dimples disappeared after 8 weeks.
I also drink a lot of water: water helps to moisturize the skin.
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