Review: By Terry Baume de Rose

Today's review is of a product that I've mentioned in numerous videos over the last couple of years. 

However, it's one that always comes with a disclaimer and one that I have hesitated to write a review on. The reason for all this wishy-washyness (not a word) is because of the hefty price tag. I almost feel as though this has become the "Product-That-Shall-Not-be-Named", but I've delayed long enough.

The By Terry Baume de Rose is my weakness! There, I said it. It's an ultra-luxe rose-scented lip balm that makes you feel like a princess. And on top of that, it works! It's incredibly reparative and gives you full, beautifully nourished lips all winter long. I have an arsenal, and I mean ARSENAL, of rosey-balmy lip conditioners that  I've collected in an attempt to find a dupe, and NONE come close to this beauty. 

How can some one justify $60 on a lip balm you ask? Honestly I can't. I will however be repurchasing this ASAP (just finished the pot - these pictures are a bit old). Not only is this an amazing lip repair, but it's also beautiful on the lips. I found myself wearing this as my main lip product for the day when I was just looking for something comfortable and flattering. It always makes my lips plumper and healthier; and totally kissable, making it the perfect date night lip product.

This is something for the luxury lovers and beauty junkies of this world. It's not for the feint of heart when it comes to dropping $$ on cosmetics. But for those of you in the prior category that have been living under a rock and have never given this a go, I urge you to spend your well-earned money on a tiny jar of lip balm. FYI it lasts forever :)

Love, 

Claire

Review: REN F10 Smooth & Renew Mask

If you have sensitive and irritable skin, but still want to refresh and brighten your complexion, then I have the perfect mask for you. The REN F10 Smooth & Renew Mask uses bio extracts from Mexican Papayas, Barbados Cherries, & Arctic Blackcurrents to gently exfoliate without irritating the skin whatsoever. The sticky, marmalade-like mask not only feels relaxing and refreshing, but there are noticeable improvements in the texture of the skin when the mask is removed. 

There are times when a mask with acids and clays is too much for my easily irritated skin. Many times, I turn to fruit acid/extract based products like this one. I would definitely add this lovely mask to the list of products to try ifyou are interested in testing out chemical exfoliation. If you are looking to slough away that dead skin and brighten your pretty face in a gentle and effective way, you can find this natural and cruelty free product at many online retailers. A bit on the pricier end, at $37, I still find it to be well worth the investment. 

Be sure to leave your face mask recommendations in the comments below. I love the effectiveness and spa/relaxation time that at-home masking can provide. 

Top 5: Face Masks #2

Since my most watched video on my YouTube channel is my Top 5 Favorite Face Masks, and that was over a year ago, I decided it was time for round 2. Five more face masks for your viewing pleasure. As with last time, this video features a variety of masks targeting different concerns. Be sure to let me know if you have tried any of these masks in the comments below. 

I hope you enjoy the video!



Love,
Claire

Evening Skincare Routine

As a natural follow up to my morning skincare routine, I bring you my evening skincare routine. The video explains and shows you how I remove my makeup after a long day of work, cleanse, and nourish my skin. My skincare routine is very important to maintaining the health of my skin. Since my skin is so sensitive and acne-prone, if I skip even one night.morning of my routine, my skin will show it, via a break out or increased discoloration. Make sure to leave a comment telling me your favorite skincare products below! I hope you enjoy the video!

Products Mentioned:

Bobbi Brown Cleansing Oil

Elemis Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash

Mario Basdescu Glycolic Grapefruit Lotion 

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, & Rosewater

The Balm Pomegranate Restorative Facial Serum

Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturizer

Pai Rosehip Bioregenerate

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

Nuxe Reve de Miel Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm

Thanks for watching!

Claire

Morning Skincare Routine

A long awaited and much requested video, I bring you My Morning Skincare Routine. I love my skincare, there is no doubt about that, and in this video I give you mini reviews and show you how I use all my morning products. I also share a little on my philosophy behind my morning cleansing and moisturizing ritual. Do note, and proceed with caution, everyone's skin is different and may react differently to various ingredients and products. Something that works beautifully for me, can have adverse reactions on you. Thus, take advantage of samples and testers at your locals stores and counters. And always remember to patch test new skincare on a hard to see area on your neck/chin before going hog wild! Be sure to watch the video below to see how I start my day and the products that give me clear and hydrated skin! 

Make sure to stay tuned for my evening skincare routine and a third part featuring sunscreens, exfoliants, and treatments.

I hope you guys enjoyed the video and be sure to subscribe to my youtube channel and follow my blog to see more!

Thanks!

Empties: April 2014

This is a big one. Get ready for copious amounts of makeup and skincare for your empty-loving viewing pleasure!

Products Mentioned:

Julep Volumizing Mascara (Black)

Julep Lengthening Mascara (Brown)

Blinc Mascara (Black)

Maybeline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Black

Rimmel Exaggerate Lip Liner Innocent 

Liole Triple the Solution BB Cream

Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer

A! Absolute! Makeup Cleansing Tissues, Vitamin E
MAC Wipes
Sesha Skin Therapy Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Mask
Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner
Kiehl's Line Reducing Eye Brightening Concentrate
Alchimie Forever Firming Gel for Neck & Bust
Kiehl's Acne Blemish Control Daily Skin-Clearing Treatment
L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Serum
Nuxe Serum Merveillance
Lancome Eau Fraiche Douceur
Marc Jacobs Eau de Toilette
Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Deep Cleansing Hand Soap New England Autumn Bouquet (discontinued)
Softsoap Hand Soap Tuscan Fig & Plum (discontinued)
REN Neroli & Grapefruit Body Cream
Bath & Body Works Cashmere Glow Shower Gel
Carol's Daughter Monoi Repairing Conditioner
Organix (now OGX) renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Organix (now OGX) renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner
Tresemme Vitamin Enriched Heat Tamer Spray
Living Proof Flex Shaping Hairspray
Desert Essence 100% Pure Jojoba Oil

Sample/Travel Sizes

Lancome Hypnose Doll Lashes Mascara Black
Alpha-H Liquid Gold
Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Intensive Vitalizing Eye Complex
First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
Amore Pacific FUTURE RESPONSE Age Defense Cream
Tilvee Cranberry Balancing Facial Lotion
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum
Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster
Paula's Choice RESIST Ultra-Light Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water
Marc Jacobs Honey Eau de Parfum
Valentino Valentina Eau de Parfum
Lancome La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum
Kiehl's Creme de Corps
L'Occitane Amande Firming & Smoothing Milk Concentrate
Elemis Lime & Ginger Hand & Body Wash
John Masters Organica Evening Primrose Shampoo
Bumble & Bumble Thickening Shampoo
Bumble & Bumble Thickening Conditioner
Phyto Phytobaume Hydration Express Conditioner
Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream (x3)
Tresemme Tres Two Hairspray
Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque

Candles
Bath & Body Works Green Grass (discontinued)

Hope you enjoyed!
Love,
Claire

Review: Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator

Costco was definitely the last place I thought I would find beauty products that would spark my interest. Surprisingly enough, a few months ago, I ran across the Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator. I quickly pulled out my iphone and realized that it was half off! Price aside, I thoroughly enjoyed using this product (I went through it completely). 

In the mornings, after toning I would apply this thin, but yet moisturizing serum all over my face and neck and follow with other serums or directly with my moisturizer and sunscreen. Not only did it sink into the skin quickly and made me feel more hydrated, but the slight sheen/shimmer in the product gave my skin a beautiful glow that was perfect to go under makeup or barefaced. Since this product sinks into the skin so easily and doesn't feel greasy or pore-clogging at all, I would recommend this for all skin types.

Definitely browse your local bulk food supply store for this beautiful skincare bit (I also see it often at CCO's). Unfortunately, as much as I enjoy it, there are other serums I prefer and I don't think it's worth the full sale price.

Hope you enjoyed and let me know if you have ever tried any other Estee Lauder skincare in the comments below!

Love,
Claire

Review: First Aide Beauty Face Cleanser

As of late I am falling madly in love with many products from the First Aid Beauty Range. Not only are they reasonably priced for high quality products, but they contain no nasty ingredients, are safe for all skin types (including sensitive), and are incredibly effective. In the past I've only used the shaving cream, and was very impressed, but recently I've gotten my hands on some of their most basic and best selling products. Today's review is on the First Aide Beauty Face Cleanser. 

Creamy and foaming but without stripping the skin, this white cleanser has been great for my hyper-sensitive skin. The last few weeks have also proven to be intensely stressful and my skin shows it! First Aide Beauty to the rescue with this calming and fragrance-free cleanser. After makeup removal I lather this all over my face with either my hands or in combination with my Clarisonic, I feel refreshed and cleansed, without that "tight-skin feeling". I definitely recommend this delicate and lovely cleanser for anyone and everyone. If you are suffering from irritated and acne-prone skin (like me) the First Aide Beauty Face Cleanser with surely calm your woes. 

Love, 

Claire

Review: Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water

As promised, this year I'm making sure that I give credit to the stand out products that I love and recommend wholeheartedly. I have found that many a "holy grail" item has slipped through the cracks and never been put on stage to receive it's well deserved applause. Today's standing ovation goes to the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water. Compared to the famed Bioderma, along many others, I have come to the conclusion that this is the best cleansing water I have ever used.

After soaking the Shiseido Cotton Pads and holding it over my eye makeup for a few seconds, I am able to swipe away all of my makeup. Without any oily residue, no rubbing or tugging needed, my makeup comes off almost magically. It honestly feels like water, hence the name, without any burning or irritation. Two reasons why this takes the cake versus Bioderma. The first is that it is ever so slightly more effective at makeup removal and second, it is incredibly easily accessible via Sephora.com, Barneys, and even Hautelook. I recommend trying the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water for anyone interested in an easy, effective, and high quality makeup removal product. Do note that I highly discourage this to be the sole cleansing step in your routine, this is only for makeup removal, not cleansing. 

Hope you enjoyed, and let me know in the comments below if you've tried anything from Koh Gen Do!

Love, 

Claire

2013 Favorites: Skincare

2013 Favorites or not the following products below that I talk about in the video linked are all time favorites. These are the products that really stood out to me over 2013. In truth, I would have very much like to have uploaded this video when it was filmed in January, but due to life, moving, surgeries, and an inability to handle my sh*t, I bring you the second installment of my 2013 favorites today! I definitely felt as this was still relevant and quality content and I certainly hope you guys enjoy!

Products Mentioned:

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water

Lancome "Eau Fraiche Douceur" Micellar Cleansing Water

Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover

Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil

Shiseido Facial Cotton

Clarins One Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Face Polish

Origins Modern Friction

Alpha-H Liquid Gold

Kiehl's Over-Night Biological Peel

Mario Badescu Glycolic Grapefruit Cleansing Lotion

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater

Kiehl's Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner

Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Serum

Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skin Tone Illuminator

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster

NUDE Radiant Day Moisturizer

PCA Skin Clearskin

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Pai Rosehip Bioregenerate

Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Eye Cream

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Eye

Clarins UV Plus HP Multi-Protection Day Screen SPF 40
Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 34
Kiehl's Acne Blemish Control Skin-Clearing Treatment
Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask
Mario Basdescu Healing & Soothing Mask
GLAMGLOW SUPER-MUD Clearing Treatment
Skin 79 Rose Moisture Mask
KORRES Lip Butter Guava
BY TERRY Baume de Rose

Love,
Claire

Review: Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner

Recently I've been experimenting with a few Aesop skincare goodies. Over this past holiday season I bought a gift set which included a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. Today I'm reviewing the toner, a new favorite that I featured in my most recent video (see previous post). The Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner is geared towards rebalancing the skin's natural pH (which can be adversely affected during cleansing) and is suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive. 

The number one ingredient listed is aloe, known for calming and soothing red and irritated skin. I find that when my skin acts up and I'm not inclined to use an exfoliating toner (which I like to do to keep my acne at bay, and have continuous cell regeneration) I like to turn to this toner to calm my skin, and keep it healthy. The antioxidant properties are not only great for overall skin health, but are also great for anti aging. We all know anti oxidants are great for our bodies, why not include them in our skincare?

I definitely recommend this beautiful, slightly herbal and floral scented toner for all skin types. If you have been interested in trying out Aesop products, I recommend the Parsley Seed Line as a whole. Also, if you have a local Aesop store, they are great for having already prepared sample packets to try; perfect to check if you are allergic and if you like the product since it is a higher priced line. The Aesop Parsley See Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner can be found on the Aesop website here.

Hope you enjoy!

Love, 

Claire

Review: Kiehl's Over-Night Biological Peel

Peels and chemical exfoliators have become my new favorite obsession. During the winter months, as an answer to dry and flakey patches that are caused by the overuse of heaters and the bitter cold, exfoliators brighten my skin and eliminate those dull and dry patches. In addition to addressing the dullness, chemical exfoliation also helps tame breakouts and lesson blackheads (a problem I have around my chin). 

Kiehl's Over-Night Biological Peel is a gentle chemical peel that on my skin, doesn't tingle at all. So if you have always been weary of trying a chemical peel, I strongly suggest this one. The yellow, light-weight cream is applied in the evening after cleansing, and replacing all your other skincare steps. Containing Urea, a naturally existing enzyme on the surface of the skin, dissolves and loosens the outer layer of the skin. In the morning you simply cleanse normally, ensuring that any leftover peel has been washed away. After the first use you will see immediate results, and after consistent use (1-2 times a week) you'll see a noticeable difference in the texture and quality of your skin. If you've ever been interested in trying a peel, or are like me and peels are one of your favorites skincare pastimes, check out the Kiehl's Over-Night Biological Peel.

Review: Boscia Bright White Mask

Another day, another face mask review. Today's mask is a little bit different from ones before as it is a "peeling" mask. The Boscia Bright White Mask has been coined as a "Biore pore-strip for your entire face". The white tacky substance is meant to be thickly spread over your skin and as the mask dries it is supposedly pulling the impurities (aka blackheads) to the surface. Subsequently, when you peel it off, it will physically remove those blackheads from the surface of your skin. 

The first thing I noticed when squeezing the product onto my fingers was the overwhelming plastic smell. It makes you really feel like your slapping chemicals on your face, rather than a calming and relaxing treatment (which is how I typically enjoy my masking time). Also, the key with this product is to put A LOT on. On the edges of my face, where the product thinned, it was extremely difficult to remove and I ultimately had to whip out a warm, wet washcloth to scrub it away. If you do lay it on in a thick layer, the mask will indeed peel off in large pieces (I got it off in two sheets). 

Upon removal of the mask, I definitely noticed a difference in the texture and brightness of my skin, but there was just something about the whole process that made me not want to buy the full size product. I received this deluxe sample with a Sephora order and was able to get two uses out of it, so I feel like I got a good feel for the product. Unfortunately, the smell of curing plastic laminate combined with the fact that I felt like I was ripping off the first layer of my skin has resulted in a disappointing review of the Boscia Bright White Mask. I definitely recommend, without a doubt, to stay far away from this product if you dry and sensitive skin. Hope the review was helpful!

Love,

Claire

Review: Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater

Sometimes I surprise myself when it comes to writing product reviews. Many times I think to first review products that are relatively new to me and ignore the products that, for lack of a better word, are "holy grail". However, one of my goals for 2014, at least when it comes to my blog and YouTube channel, is to bring richer content to my readers/viewers. One way that I interpret that is more reviews and mention of my tried and true products. Hence, I bring you today the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater.  

Rosewater in general has become a favorite ingredient for my skin over the last couple years. Not only is it perfect for redness and irritated skin, but it also is a hydrating and refreshing ingredient for dry and dehydrated skin during these cold winter months. I have found that Mario Badescu's Rosewater blend has been one of the more staple and consistent products in my ever changing skincare routine. 

As I've mentioned a few times before, I love to layer my skincare. Meaning, using multiple serums with my moisturizers to target specific skin concerns. Lately, this has included the layering of toners as well. For example, one of my concoctions begins with an exfoliating toner (like the Mario Badescu Glycolic Grapefruit Cleansing Lotion) and then the Rosewater Facial Spray is layered over it, creating the perfect balance of exfoliation and hydration. I could not be happier with my skincare routine (video coming shortly) and much of it has to do with this beautiful and inexpensive floral essence. Not only is it an integral part of my skincare routine, but it's perfect for spritzing all over my face (even over makeup) throughout the day to rehydrate after sitting in a heated office or to tend to my windburned cheeks. This delicately scented spray definitely gets my highest praises!

Hope you enjoyed!

Love, 

Claire

Review: LUSH Brazened Honey Fresh Face Mask

Today I'm bringing you a new face mask that I have been loving from LUSH, Brazened Honey. This clay-based deep cleansing mask was perfect for my irritated and incredibly acne-ridden skin over the holidays. With all the sweets and fatty foods, my skin was reflecting all the terrible things I was putting in my body. According to the LUSH website this is an Indian Ayurvedic inspired face mask and the scent of all the spices is part of the whole experience.

I definitely recommend this mask if your skin is feeling clogged and congested. Even though Brazened Honey is geared towards oily skin, and my skin as of recently has been more on the side of combination to dry, I still loved this mask and didn't feel that it was too drying. However, if you have dry, flakey skin I do not recommend it. As you are applying the mask over your face, ground almonds physically exfoliate and while the mask dries, the kaolin clay pulls out all the impurities. 

Definitely check out Brazened Honey Fresh Face Mask if you are looking for something to combat congested skin without drying it out.
Hope you enjoyed!

Love,
Claire

Review: Caudalie VinoSource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum

Serums. A topic that I have barely scratched the surface of here on the blog. The down and dirty is that if you are serious about skincare, you are serious about serums. The products applied between toner and moisturizer can be some of the most expensive bust also some of the most beneficial steps of your skincare. Serums are your opportunity to specifically target your skin concerns of the morning/evening. All kinds, from hydrating to mattifying, serums can be your best friend. Today I am reviewing a long time favorite and the widely loved, Caudalie Vinosource  S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum.

When I first started really getting into skincare, about ten years ago, I would use one serum between toner and moisturizer. For the last couple years I've started to sandwich different products together (especially come evening) to give myself a mini facial on a regular basis.

As I begin my skincare sandwich, I always like to start off with a serum that is hydrating (this is both morning and evening). The Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum is aptly name as it feels like your giving your skin a drink of water. This lightweight formula is perfect morning and evening, layering under makeup weightlessly and sinking into the skin immediately. Currently, this bottle is sitting empty in a bag ready for my October Empties video. I have thoroughly enjoyed using this product, and my skin loved it as well. However, I find that as I'm getting older, it's just not enough hydration during the colder months. Regardless, I will continue to repurchase during the summer and will always have one of these in my stash. Definitely give this product a try if you have anywhere from oily to dry skin. Most of the time, we are all dehydrated, any many of us will produce excess sebum to overcompensate for the loss of hydration. Overall, the Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum is a great product and it really is hyped up for a good reason!

Empties: September 2013

As usual, my empties video is over 20 minutes long! Over the past month I came to the completion of more makeup items than ever before! Make sure to watch the video linked below to see mini reviews of all the products I finished up over the month of September. Many favorites went into the recycle bin, but of course there were many that I will never purchase again.

Products Mentioned:

Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Deep Cleansing Hand Soap Malibu Citrus (discontinued)*

Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Deep Cleansing Hand Soap Pacific Blue (discontinued)*

Butter London Acetone Free Lacquer Remover Sergeant Peppermint (discontinued)*

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo & Conditioner*
Kiehl's Extra Strength Conditioning Rinse for Dry or Damaged Hair*
LUSH Jasmine & Henna Fluff Eaze Hair Treatment*
Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream*
Lush Sympathy for the Skin Hand & Body Lotion*
Thymes Garden Alchemy Rosemary Sage Shower Gel
REN Guerande Salt Exfoliating Body Balm*
Origins Ginger Float Cream Bubble Bath*
Bioderma Crealine H2O Micelle Solution*
Lumene Sensitive Touch Gentle Cleansing Wipes
Chanel Lift Lumiere Firming & Smoothing Fluid Makeup SPF 15*
MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder Light*
Boscia Skin Perfecting Primer (discontinued)
Stila Lip Glaze Fantasy (discontinued)*
Maybeline Eye Studio Master Precise Ink Pen Eyeliner Black
MAC False Lashes Extreme Black*
Buxom Lash
CoverGirl LashBlast Fusion Mascara

Travel/Sample Sizes:

L'Occitane Aromachologie Soothing Shampoo*
Tresemme Moisture Rich, Vitamin E Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair
Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Heat Protect Spray
Oscar Blandi Pronto Texture & Volume Spray
Orofluido Elixer*
Shikai Borage Therapy Advanced Formula Fragrance Free
Grecian Oil Body Lotion (x4)
Kiehl's Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit Hand & Body Lotion*
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Usage Dry Oil*
Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Lotion
Origins Blade Runner Energizing Shave Cream*
Kiehl's Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish*
Evian Mineral Water Spray To Go*
Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster*
Perricone MD Blue Plasma*
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser (x2)*
Dior Instant Gentle Cleansing Oil
bareMinerals Active Cell Renewal Night Serum*
Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Cottonseed*
Bliss Triple Oxygen + C Energizing Cream*
Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+*

Lancome Bienfait Multi-Vital SPF 30 High-Potency Vitamin Enriched Daily Moisturizing Cream*

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Eye*

Lancome La Base Pro Perfecting Makeup Primer

Too Faced Shadow Insurance*

Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau de Parfum Spray*

* = I would repurchase

Hope you enjoy!

Favorites: September 2013

Today I bring you an incredibly late September Favorites. Regardless of the of the upload date, these products are all worth the attention. In the last year I've found myself being more interested and experimental with hair styling products. I continue to gravitate towards a minimalist routine and look, but I like to find that perfect combination of hairsprays, oils, and volumizers to give my hair that sexy, tousled, and effortless hair. Two high end products are worth discussion, one by Living Proof and the other, Bumble & Bumble.

In addition to some hair care finds, there are a few new additions to my skincare routine that are worth the mention. As my last review suggests, I am still loving the Mario Badescu Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion along with the accompanying face wash. Both amazing products for delicate, dry, and reddened skin (whether by couperose or rosacea). Definitely make sure to watch the video to get lengthier descriptions of all the products I was loving over the month of September!

Products Mentioned

Living Proof Flex Shaping Spray

Bumble & bumble Prep

Marc Jacobs Lola Eau de Parfum

Mario Badescu Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion

Mario Badescu Keratoplast Cream Soap

NUDE Skincare Radiant Day Moisturiser

Kiehl's Acne Blemish Control Skin-Clearing Treatment

MAC Lip Conditioner

Pixi Line Relax Serum

Pixi Tint & Conceal

Jouer Mineral Powder Blush Rose

Hope you enjoyed!

Love,
Claire

Review: Mario Badescu Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion

Toners were a part of my skincare routine that I was always indifferent about. However I have found myself over the last few years become completely addicted to trying out different ones that target various concerns. From hydration to cleansing and exfoliating, toners can be the key step in helping the penetration and effectiveness of the rest of your skincare routine. Today I bring you a new favorite from Mario Badescu focused on treating dry and irritated skin. The Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion also directly targets dilated and broken capillaries, resulting from skin conditions such as Couperose.

I suffer from Rosacea and dry skin on a good day. Most of the time I'm battling Acne, hives, milia, scars, and the list goes on. Regardless of the issue, if my skin is irritated, a few swipes of this with cotton pad post cleanse calms and soothes. A mild herbal smell accompanies the soothing sensation of this toner. If you are a fan of the Kiehl's Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner, this is very similar and both are virtually the same price. Rather than cucumber and allantoin in Kiehl's toner, Mario Badescu combines bee pollen, aloe vera, and keratoplast to combat sensitive and reddened skin while strengthening weakened capillaries. So if you have dry, sensitive skin, or broken capillaries, check out Mario Badescu's Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion. I picked mine up from Nordstrom.

Hope you enjoyed!

Love,

Claire

Empties: August 2013

Many favorites this past month hit the dust. I had to say goodbye to a luxurious and unnecessary (but oh so pampering) love, my LUSH Almond & Coconut Shower Smoothie; which I will be sure to repurchase next time I make my way to LUSH.

It's always frustrating that by the time I make it to finishing a product and talking about it in my Empties videos/posts, it's been discontinued. Unfortunately this month, two products that I really enjoyed are currently unavailable! Otherwise, I hope you find all the mini reviews helpful and interesting. Do note, that as I am a beauty product junkie, there is no judging needed for the hoards of product I pound through over the mere course of 30 days!

Products Mentioned:

Shiseido Facial Cotton*

Johnson's Baby No More Tears Shampoo Original*

Clinique Makeup Brush Cleanser
Bath & Body Works Pocketbac Sanitizing Hand Gel Cilantro Peach (discontinued)*
Studio 35 Beauty Regular Nail Polish Remover Pad*
Andrea Modlash Strip Lash - 21 Black*
LUSH Almond & Coconut Shower Smoothie*
Champneys Spa Indulgence Oriental Opulence Body Glow
Chaacoca Intense Hair Repair Treatment Mask with Argan Oil*
the Balm En Root Hairspray Flexible Hold*
Suave Kids Soft & Smooth Detangler Twirlin Swirlberry
True Blue Spa 60-Second Manicure Hand Scrub
Sephora Instant Nail Polish Remover
Butter London Acetone Free Lacquer Remover Pumpkin Warrior (discontinued)
Murad Clarifying Cleanser*
MAC Mineralize Volcanic Ash Exfoliator*
Olay Fresh Effects S'wipe Out! Refreshing Make-up Removal Cloths
Boots Botanics Organic Rosewater Toner (reformulated)
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser*
Alchemie Forever Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask*
Clarisonic Sensitive Skin Brush Head*
Naruko Raw Job's Tears Supercritical CO2 Whitening Mask*
Maybeline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer Radiant*
Maybeline Baby Lips Peppermint

Travel/Sample Sizes:

Color Sustain Color Revealing Conditioner (x2)
Phyto Phytojoba Intense Hydrating Mask for Dry Hair*
Alterna Bamboo Style Boho Waves Spray*
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray*
A! Absolute! Makeup Cleansing Tissues Cucumber*
Ole Henrikson Truth Serum Vitamin C Collagen Booster (x5)*
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate*
European Wax Center The Exfoliate
European Wax Center Slow IT Body Wash
Kahina Giving Beauty Facial Lotion
Dior Hydralife Youth Essential Concentrated Sorbet Essence*
Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream
bareMinerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener*
Jo Malone Wild Bluebell Cologne*
Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne*
Stila Lip Glaze Lights (discontinued)*

* = I would repurchase

Be sure to let me know below if you have tried any of the products mentioned in the video!

Love,
Claire