Showing posts with label REN. Show all posts
Showing posts with label REN. Show all posts

6/2/15

3 Body Oils I'm Loving Right Now

I have quite an affinity for body oils, as I do face oils, cleansing oils - I just love oils in general! I find them to be incredibly moisturizing and many help me with the tone and appearance of my skin. Here are three that I've been testing and my thoughts on each:

1. Indie Lee Sweet Almond Massage Oil - In the evening, I like to apply my body products right out of the shower and really massage them in to the skin. Because of this, I use all my heavier creams and oils at night because I will take the extra time to rub them in. This Indie Lee Massage Oil is actually designed for a massage, and has the perfect amount of slip to it that allows it to glide over the skin. Many times I am so busy at night that I don't want to take the extra 5-7 minutes to work it into the skin, but after doing it a few times I saw such great results that I made the time. My skin felt better, stayed moisturized longer and the massage helped reduce any leg or ankle swelling I tend to suffer from during the warmer weather.
2. REN Moroccan Rose Gold Glow Perfect Dry Oil - I am already a huge fan of the REN Moroccan Rose Body Oil and am already on my second bottle. I was skeptical if I would love this as much, but the weightless texture and silky feel of the oil won me over. It probably also helped that summer is almost here and a thinner oil appeals to me a bit more. However when I sprayed this on my legs before running out the door one morning, I noticed the amazing glow it gave them. Since it is no longer tights season (there is no greater feeling), this has been in regular rotation when wearing shorts or a skirt. It gives my legs that added healthy sheen without looking greasy. 

3. Darphin The Revitalizing Oil - It's very rare that I can use a body oil for my face, but this Revitalizing Oil from Darphin is perfect for either. I have taken to using it on the body and then even taking the remaining bit on my hands and running it on the ends of my hair. I can't remember the last time I had a product that worked on my face, body  and hair, so I have already put this aside for an upcoming business trip as I find multi-purpose products to be traveling lifesavers.
*pr samples included

Have you entered my Tom Ford Summer 2015 Cheek and Eye Palette giveaway?! Enter here.

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7/11/14

Morning Skincare Routine Update

It's been quite a while since I did a morning skincare routine post, and a lot has changed so I felt it was time for an updated one. When it comes to my morning regimen, my makeup may vary from day to day, but I tend to keep the same skincare routine for a long time. Any new products I am testing out typically are tested in my evening routine because I can't afford to have any issues during the day. The last thing I need is to have an allergic reaction or irritation from a product and have to get out the door to head to work. No thank you. So once I settle on a combination of products I like, I leave it there until I finish them up (or something else is good enough to catch my eye). Here is a look at my current morning skincare routine:

1. Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser - Sooo many mixed reviews on this product, and after using it I can understand why. The first time I applied it, I used 3-4 pumps and was left with the driest most uncomfortable skin imaginable. After reading some tips online, I amended my application to only one pump as recommended and it performed much better. Yup, "they" were right. The cleanser helps to make my skin feel fresh, clean and balanced each morning which is just what I need to wake me up. This is one of those times when I am glad I listened to the Internet.

2. REN Clarifying Toning Lotion - If I am not using my First Aid Beauty Blemish Patrol Pads during a breakout, I use this REN clarifying toning lotion after cleansing. I prefer to use an exfoliating toner for both my morning and evening routine and then follow it up with a hydrating mist (this one is a favorite) or balancing lotion/essence (alternating between this one and this one right now). The glycolic acid and salicilin in this toning lotion helps to remove any dead skin cells and purify congested skin, preparing my skin for the rest of the treatments.

3. Clarins Double Serum - I feel that you truly can't call yourself a skincare lover until you have added this cult classic to your routine. Every time I have posted it on Instagram, the first thing everyone says is how much they love this serum. The bottle houses two different formulas that dispense simultaneously when you press the pump which is one of the coolest features of this serum. The fact that the ingredients are designed to help reactivate skin's functions, reduce wrinkles, even skin tone and firm skin is just an added bonus. And for me this serum wears beautifully under makeup, and feels amazing on the skin. One pump is enough to cover my entire face and my skin immediately looks smoother. I feel this is the one serum that any age or skin type can use and should add to their routine.

4. REN T-Zone Balancing Day Fluid - Most moisturizers are too heavy or end up contributing to my mid day shine disaster. I have been on the hunt for a balancing or slightly mattifying face lotion that worked for my skin, and I found one just in time for the humidity and heat. This REN lotion absorbs instantly without any tackiness, and acts as the perfect base to apply my makeup or sunscreen. It gives my skin a natural matte finish and wears just as well in the cold weather as it does in the heat. Typically I follow it up with a sunscreen, and here is a prior post that I wrote featuring the ones I'm wearing this summer under my makeup.*please note the name for this product has changed and it is now the Clarimatte T-Zone Balancing Gel Cream*

5. Bakel Cool Eyes - I have a lot of trouble sleeping as well as the issue of waking up with intensely dry eyes so I need an eye cream that immediately helps soothe and hydrate. This has been my go-to eye cream for the past few months and I am loving it. For more details, check out the full review I did on this eye cream a few weeks ago.

What is your current skincare routine? Tell me in the comments below!



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5/23/14

Summer Skin Prep

 photo fc5e6f43-f8f8-46fd-b033-fb9eeb80b5c0.jpg Though my skin turns into nothing short of alligator hide during the winter season, I don't take as many steps necessary to keep it hydrated as I do during the spring/summer. Probably because my arms and legs are hidden under 15,000 layers in the colder months, which can make me lazy. But all bets are off in the warmer months since limbs are exposed every day and a sundress with scaly legs or ashy elbows is never a cute look. My summer skin prep has already begun and I have a few new products I am using this year mixed with a classic staple that never leaves my shower.

1. Dove Sensitive Skin Nourishing Body Wash - Probably one of the longest relationships I've ever had is with this body wash. I actually can't remember a time when I have not used it - it's that good. Many different body washes have tried to infiltrate my shower, but none have lasted. That's because this one is gentle yet effective, unscented and incredibly nourishing on the skin. Oddly enough, this was recommended to me by my gynecologist because it was safe enough to be used anywhere on the body (even on one's lady parts - yes, I said lady parts), and would not irritate. I am not consistent with most skincare and makeup that I use because I love to try new things, but this is one product that I will never stray from. We are in it for the long haul.

2. Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Sugar Scrub* - "It's a body scrub, and it exfoliates. The end." - is what I thought I would say after using this scrub. Boy was I in for a surprise. I actually said "Wow" after my first use, and consider it one of the best scrubs I have ever used. The texture is incredibly thick, almost like honey which makes it a bit more of a challenge to rub in, but as the product is massaged in, it warms up and begins to turn into a liquid. Sugar is more healing than salt so my skin always feels nourished and soothed after. Oh, and it smells like creme brulee. YUM, now I want a cupcake. 

3. REN Moroccan Rose Otto Body Oil - If the immediate absorption doesn't lure you in, then the scent will. I find that when using this I rarely need perfume, and the delicate rose scent is pleasant without being overpowering. I use this in the morning because it dries quickly and allows me to get dressed almost immediately. No residue is left and my skin feels incredible. 

4. Tatcha Indigo Soothing Silk Body Butter - While the REN body oil is perfect for day time, I tend to like something a bit more rich at night. I have seen this Tatcha body cream all over Instagram and I just had to try for myself. And now I know why everyone is loving it - it is pure decadence, yet extremely effective. Designed for all skin types, especially sensitive and those with eczema, rosacea or dermatitis, this helps to immediately soothe my skin, and any skin irritation is immediately calmed. This will definitely stay with me into the winter season.

5. Lancer The Method: Body Nourish* - I had a chance recently to attend a fall launch preview at Bergdorf Goodman and this one from Dr. Lancer was quite unique. It is a body cream containing glycolic acid which helps to exfoliate the skin. I use this once or twice a week in conjunction with my Laura Mercier body scrub and find that the combination of the two have helped keep my skin smoother than it has ever been. An added benefit that I found once I began using this body cream was how even toned my skin began to look especially on my arms, chest and back. While I have always loved using glycolic acid on my face, I never truly made the connection that I would have the same results if used on the rest of my body. Duh, clearly not my brightest moment. Keep your eyes peeled for fall when this launches - it is worth a try!
* press sample



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5/7/14

Glowing Skin Giveaway!

ANOTHER GIVEAWAY?? Yes, my friends. YES! I felt that with summer around the corner, what better way to welcome it than with a glowing skin giveaway. Here are three of the products I use regularly that are absolutely vital to helping me achieve healthy radiant skin. I have raved about each in prior blog posts, the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil here, the REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask here, and the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads here. And now one lucky reader will win all 3!! Here's how to enter:

1.  Follow me on Twitter @alittlebitetc.
2.  For a second entry, like A Little Bit etc on Facebook.
3.  Leave a comment below this post letting me know what your current favorite "glow getting" product is that you use. Please be sure to include you twitter handle for reference. 
4.  The winner must have a valid email address to be contacted.  
5.  The contest ends May 21st and the winner will be announced on my blog on May 22nd, so be sure to check back.
Items featured have been graciously provided by each brand. Giveaway open to US residents only, and the winner will be selected at random.  Lost, damaged or stolen prize items cannot be replaced. Good Luck!
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THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

3/21/14

Cult Classic Products That Are Worth The Hype

popular beauty products
Most beauty articles and blog posts I read are often about the newest beauty product or the next collection, overlooking the already popular cult classics from the brand.  So I decided to do a post of my own featuring products in my stash that have achieved cult classic status and live up to the hype.  

1. Bobbi Brown Gel Liner - I have the shade caviar ink, which is less dark than black with a touch of purple.  It goes with everything basically.  And while I was always a powder-with-an-angled-brush fan, this has 100% converted me.  Truly smudge proof, easy to apply, and one pot may actually last me my entire lifetime. 
2. Seche Vite Top Coat c/o - I go the salon weekly to get a manicure and well, their basic Essie top coat wasn't cutting it.  So I decided to bring my own Seche Vite top coat to see if my manicure lasted longer, and voila!  It did.  Now I use nothing else.
3. By Terry Rose de Baume c/o - This is the 10th anniversary edition, which makes it even more fabulous and cult classic worthy.  Use it on the lips, use it on your cuticles, heck I have even used it on my face with stubborn dry patches.  It's a moisturizing cure all. 
4. Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage c/o - I opened this for the first time and was sure I had the wrong shade.  Just look at that white/yellow shade, next to a super orange-y peach - yowza! But I felt that a gazillion good reviews can't be wrong, so I gave it a shot.  Welp, that's all she wrote folks.  It is glorious.  I mix the two colors together to get a perfect shade for under the eyes and while it feels quite thick, it does not cake up, dry out during the day or settle into fine lines.  How have I lived this long without it?? 
5. Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish - I have spoken about this before on the blog, so many of you should know my feelings already.  Cleanser from heaven.  The rich texture feels great on my skin, and when used with the included muslin cloth, my skin is left feeling soft, exfoliated and radiant.  Dull and lackluster skin need not apply.
6. REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask c/o - A mask of all masks.  A glow of all glows.   I use it once a week and I swear it is making me younger.  Pores appear smaller (they can't actually shrink remember? They can just appear so), breakouts stay away and my skin tone looks more even immediately after each use.  Get it and thank me later. 
7. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream c/o - I know this is a relatively new brand, but this product quickly shot to the top of many people's favorites list.  I have oily skin and was hesitant it would be too rich - nope. Not at all.  A little goes a long way for me, but nothing banishes dry skin and post acne flakiness like this cream.  And there have been a few days recently when this winter weather left my face raw and red (Mother Nature, that b*tch), and this was the only product that could soothe it.  Ahhhhhhhh. 
8. NARS Laguna Bronzer - Yes I know it is housed in a duo in the above pic, but let's just focus on the bottom bronzy shade - otherwise known as Laguna.  This is not only a cult classic, I feel this bronzer has become an institution.  Laguna for life is many people's motto.  And I can understand why - not too brown, not too orange, not too shimmery, not too matte.  It's falls perfectly in the middle of everything.  The Goldilocks of bronzers if you will.
9. MAC Lipstick in Lady Danger - Though many people may call on numerous other colors from MAC as a cult classic, I still feel this is one of those shades that is always recognized when worn.  A matte texture, an opaque coverage, and a vibrant color pay off that will never have you go unnoticed.  This color is the real deal - red orange at it's best.  And I have seen almost every skin tone wear it and look good.  Expect people still to be talking about this color 50 years from now.

What are some of your favorite cult classics that I didn't include? Or better yet, what cult classics do I need to try next?

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2/28/14

A Bit Obsessed: February 2014 Favorites

It's baaaaack!!!  I skipped my monthly favorites for January because I was testing so many different things but I am back with some great picks for February.  These posts are truly one of my favorite (no pun intended, har har) to read from other bloggers, so I really enjoy doing them myself.  2014 has a lot to live up to beauty wise, because I found some pretty amazing things during my beauty exploration in 2013.  But so far, the year is starting off strong with my favorite finds - so I am feeling hopeful.  Here are my favorites from the past two months:

1. Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Magic and Tapage - Magic was a limited edition color exclusive to Chanel.com and Macy's, but it was a beauty.  A gorgeous deep navy that was just the perfect shade of blue (see swatch here).  Tapage was from the Spring 2014 Collection and if this color does not perk up your mood just by looking at it, then nothing will.  A bright red/coral that is perfect to wear both in the winter, when your nails need a bit of life, and the spring/summer when it's taboo not to have bright nails (see swatch here).
2. Sunday Riley Good Genes - Yup, I fell victim to all the hype surrounding this product.  And thank goodness I did, because I adore it.  I wear this as a serum under my night time moisturizer and even upon first application, it made my skin glow.  It's designed to be a brightening, multitasking and radiance treatment and it delivers on every promise - immediately at that.  Plump, supple, radiant, and glowing is the only way to describe my skin the next morning - otherwise know as perfect skin.  I now understand why people freak out when they run out of this stuff - I dispense it like it's liquid gold, never sparing even a drop.
3. Glam Glow Supermud Clearing Treatment - Well isn't this just a month of cult classic favorites, right? I bought this during the same haul as my Good Genes, and yup I loved it too.  It really does clean out pores like no other treatment, and has a slight exfoliating effect as well, so after my skin is always smooth and beautiful.  This did come in a set with the Youthmud Tinglexfoliate treatment mask, and while my skin is nowhere near sensitive, it was a tad too harsh for my skin to take.  But the Supermud original is the jam and worth every penny.
4. REN Bio-Retinoid Anti-Aging Cream (c/o) - I dedicated an entire blog post to this product as it was my first experience with Retinol, and it was life changing.  I have seen products help with my breakouts before, but nothing quite like this cream - it had profound results on how smooth, clear and even my skin looked.  You can read the entire post here.  In the meantime, snag a sample of this if you can, you won't be disappointed.  
5. Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation - What is a favorites post on this blog without Hourglass, amiright? Once again, they knocked it out of the park again with this product.  It is a liquid/cream/mousse like foundation that goes on flawlessly, and does a great job of keeping me matte throughout the day.  I always still need to touch up with powder (I am that oily) but this foundation has some serious staying power, lasting all day for me. My Hourglass love affair continues.
6. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz and Brow Powder Duo (c/o) - If there was any brow product that could steer me away from my Hourglass Brow Tool, it would be ones from the brow queen herself, Anastasia.  Both of these have made me cheat on my holy grail Hourglass, and with such great results, I can't say I feel bad.  The Brow Wiz pencil gives a much more exact and bolder look for when I am wearing a bit more makeup, while the Powder duo is a bit more natural for more subtle days.  With the powder duo, the ability to mix two colors makes it even more of a perfect fit for my hair color.  But application and colors aside, the staying power on these products is ridiculous - they last ALL. DAY. LONG.  This summer humidity better get ready for my brows.
7. Nude Perfect Cleansing Oil (c/o) - Never met a cleansing oil I didn't love (ok maybe a few, but I block those out), and this Nude oil is no exception.  It's extremely gentle and not as thick as other cleansing oils, making it easier to use when removing even the most stubborn makeup.  Sometimes when the cleansing oils are too thick, it takes more work than it's worth to wash my face - no thank you. 
8. Tom Ford Lip Color in Pink Dusk - This was one of my first experiences with Tom Ford lip colors, and of course I fell in love.  *watches wallet contents empty* It's a full coverage lipstick, which I love with an extremely creamy texture.  The only caveat with this color is that  my lips need to be exfoliated properly or it won't apply evenly.  This made me a bit hesitant at the beginning when using it, but the color was just so darn pretty and opaque that I settled for the fact that it would be a bit more high maintenance.  The beauty end justified the fussy means.

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2/3/14

Adding Retinol To My Skincare Routine

Ok I have a confession - I am a beauty blogger, enthralled by all things skincare, makeup, etc, but I was never quite clear on Retinol, which is a pure form of Vitamin A.  What it was, what it did, why I should use it.  The truth is while I care very much about maintaining clear skin, I typically saw Retinol as a product that was designed for treating intense anti-aging concerns.  While I definitely want to keep myself looking as young as possible for as long as possible, I tend to gravitate towards products that help me deal with my adult acne and keep my skin hydrated as I find hydrated skin is beautiful skin. 

Then Ren sent me this Bio-Retinoid Anti-Aging Cream to try and there it was - Retinol staring me directly in the face, coaxing me to try it.  And since I am a HUGE fan of the Ren brand, I had to give it a real go.  Before I did however, I wanted to understand a bit more about this magical ingredient.  So I did some research and was pleasantly surprised to see that in fact it does a lot more than simply help address anti-aging concerns.  It is also designed to help unclog pores through exfoliation of dead skin cells, thus leading to fewer breakouts and clearer skin!  Ding! Ding! Ding! So I dove right in, face first.  I was aware that Retinol can cause some dryness/irritation/flaking in certain people so I added to my routine twice a week at first.  And after 2 weeks, I had no issues so I increased to 3-4/x a week and I have to say, I have been so impressed by the results.

My first observation was the even toned skin and secondly was the fewer breakouts - holy moly! So because I am a doubting cynic, I did a test and took myself off it for a 2 week period and I did in fact notice a slight increase in blemishes - cue the shock and awe.  Some other noteworthy benefits of Retinol are it's ability to boost collagen which reduces the appearance of fine lines and to stimulate cell turnover which helps even out discoloration and smooth skin.  Frankly, I saw it all - and my skin has continuously looked better and better.  Now there is that myth that using Retinol can make you more sun sensitive but after some research, I have found that is not the case.  The actual ingredient is sensitive to sun so it should be applied at night but the effects on your skin's sun sensitivity is no different than if you used a basic scrub.  This has been my first prolonged experience with Retinol and I have to say, I am hooked - with this particular cream inching its way up my cannot-live-without list.  What has been your experience with Retinol?

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1/3/14

Beauty Bits: Acne Fighting Products

 photo Acneproducts.jpg Acne and breakouts are something that I have struggled with since I was a teenager.  On the spectrum, I know my case is rather mild, but my skin can really act up when it wants to.  Over the years, my breakouts have now limited themselves to my chin and jaw area which I know primarily hormonal, but it doesn't make it any more fun to deal with. Taking better care of my skin over the past few years has dramatically helped reduce my breakouts, however I have isolated a few certain products I have come across along the way that stand out from the rest in helping me keep my skin in check.  Mario Badescu products have been some of the best I have ever used in maintaining my clear skin, but there have been a few others that I have come across recently that were quite exceptional and needed to be added to this list.  Here is a look at some of my favorite acne fighting products: 

1. Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion - This toner can be quite strong so I recommend using sparingly, but it is great at disinfecting the skin and helping to reduce bacteria.  I apply after I have cleansed and before I begin applying any serums or moisturizers.  I made the mistake of letting this run out without a back up, and my skin freaked out.  Lesson learned.
2. Dermalogica Precleanse Wipes - I am quite the facial wipe connoisseur, and while most seem to do a suitable job, these stood out immediately to me.  Much like their Precleanse product, these wipes help to break out oil, makeup, dirt and grime so easily allowing for a more thorough cleanse after.  I find that half the battle in fighting acne is to properly cleanse the skin and remove all the yucky stuff (technical term) that contributes to clogging pores and irritating the skin.
3. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion - Yes, it pained me just to turn this bottle on its side for the picture since they give you strict instructions NOT to ever shake the bottle.  Leave the contents upright and simply dab a q-tip into the sediment at the bottom and dab on the blemish.  I typically use this only on whiteheads (ugh, I know - it's even gross to say) to help shrink and reduce the inflammation.  It's pretty powerful stuff so just a dab will do ya.
4. Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion - Included in my 2013 Beauty Favorites, I am never without this product.  If I travel, this is the first thing I throw in my bag.  Technically designed to treat cystic acne (which I often suffer from), this is best applied at night to help soothe the skin and reduce the breakout.  Now I will stress that often (any of) these products take time to heal a blemish (or blemishes - plural, ugh) so patience is a must but the process moves a lot faster with these in my arsenal.  But a little tip from me to you when using this gem, I often apply it under my makeup to help the blemish heal during the day and find that it works wonders. 
5. Mario Badescu Drying Cream - This product is new to me, but I instantly fell in love.  And while I go rogue and use the Buffering Lotion under my makeup occasionally, this is actually designed to help conceal, treat blemishes and be worn under makeup.  Great at drying up small under the surface bumps and blemishes, I am not sure how I ever lived without it before.  Seriously, the more you know.....
6. Mario Badescu Silver Powder - What the heck is this stuff? - my thoughts the first time I used it.  I read the instructions and it said to dab a wet cotton ball into the dry powder mixture and apply to any areas with blackheads.  But all skepticism went away when I removed the powder after 10 minutes (use a cotton pad soaked in toner), and my pores looked squeaky clean!  The powder is designed to help unclog (again, gross I know, but the truth) congested pores and absorb any excess oil.  But a slight word of caution, if you walk by an open window or fan with this stuff on your face, be prepared for a dust storm. 
7. REN Invisible Pores Detox Mask - While most of these products help to address the blemishes themselves, this mask is great because it treats my entire face.  It helps to purify the skin, remove dirt and impurities and I love the way my skin feels after.  Some pore-cleansing masks can leave my skin dry, tight and uncomfortable, but this is just the opposite.  Once I remove, my skin looks smoother, softer and most importantly still feels hydrated. 

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12/2/13

Beauty Bits: Cleansing Oils And Balms And Why I Love Them

  If you have been reading my blog for a while now, you are familiar with my undying love appreciation for cleansing oils.  I find them to be one of the most effective ways to remove my makeup, deep cleanse and keep my skin looking the best it can.  Surprisingly however, I have never mentioned cleansing balms on my blog and how wonderful they can be for any and all skin types.  So I felt it was time to join forces in a post and feature both cleansing oils and cleansing balms and rave about them both.  Being super (super) oily, I initially feared both of these mediums for the obvious reasons - oil and balm on my face? Are you crazy? But that fear quickly turned into adoration after using them and seeing first hand how great my skin began to look.  With both cleansing oils and balms, they cut through makeup effortlessly and leave my skin less oily afterwards then other cleansers.  Why is that?  The reason I have found is because when oil is removed/stripped from the face, it stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil thus creating a vicious cycle.  Here is a look at some great cleansing oil and balm options:

1. Boscia Makeup/Breakup Cleansing Oil - Still new to the Boscia brand, I have tried a few of their products and they continuously amaze me each time.  This cleansing oil is both affordable and is a pleasure to use as I barely have to do any work when removing my makeup.  It's cuts right throw all my makeup layers in a second and even waterproof mascara doesn't stand a chance with this oil.
2. Tatcha Cleansing Oil (c/o) - Good ol' Tatcha - still one of my favorite brands of all time.  Their enzyme powder is my holy grail and I became a fan of their cleansing oil upon first use.  Especially when my skin is feeling a bit irritated or sensitive, I find this cleanser to give me a deep, thorough cleanse while still treating my skin with kid gloves, and leaving it soothed and soft.
3. REN Purity Cleansing Balm (c/o) - A product that both cleanses and conditions the skin in one? Yes please.  This cleansing balm easily removes makeup, especially when used with the muslin cloth included.  This is one that I often travel with because when I am away from home my skin needs something to help cleanse but keep it balanced and this always does the trick.
4. Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm (c/o)- I am quickly becoming a fan of this UK organic brand, and I can add this cult classic to my list of favorites from NYR.  Saying this product is multi-purpose is an understatement since it can be used as a cleanser, exfoliant or rich moisturizer, and is incredibly gentle.  Dry, chapped, winter skin has met it's match in this product. 
5. Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm - As still one of the strongest skincare brands in the market, Clinique will always be great for basic, effective skincare staples.  And this cleansing balm is no exception.  What applies as a thick balm, quickly dissolves into a silky, rich oil that removes makeup in a pinch, leaving skin feeling smooth and soft.  Makeup residue need not apply.

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7/30/12

Beauty Bits: Checking Off My List


Making lists Checking things off on a list is one of the great joys of life.  Feeling a sense of accomplishment for completing a task that was important enough to write down - giving yourself the proverbial "gold star" for stellar organization and follow through.  Now imagine if that list was comprised of all beauty items? Swoon.  I regularly keep a running list of items recommended to me, read about or mentioned in a magazine that I must try.  And this past weekend, in the spirit of Olympic goal achievement, I crossed off a bunch of beauty bits that I have been stalking for weeks.  Weather was no deterrent as it was raining buckets on Saturday, I was on a mission.  To. Cross. Things. Off.  And here is what I bought and perhaps some insight as to why (like reason is necessary):

1. Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil - How many times do I need to profess my love for cleansing oils before I am given a lifetime supply?  What does a girl have to do to be with oil for life?  I have talked about the awesomeness that is cleansing oil before, so I was simply expanding my horizons by trying a new one.
2. REN Rosa Centifolia Facial Cleansing Gel - I needed a new morning face wash and the people have been a'talkin bout REN.  Free of all those long words that you learned read about in chemistry, it plays on the more natural team so I thought I would ease into the line with a cleanser.  Stay tuned.
3. OLE Henrickson Truth To Go Wipes - As a precursor to my full makeup unspackling, I like to use a makeup wipe to start the cleansing process.  These were mentioned in a magazine article about what is in each editor's bag when they vacation.  The magazine name escapes me but obviously the product did not. 
4. Lancome Hypnose Drama - embarrassing. humiliating. unacceptable.  I have never tried any of the revered and often dubbed "holy-grail" Lancome mascaras. Any of them. Feel free to judge me. 
5. NARS Velvet Gloss Pencil in Happy Days - I don't like lipgloss. There I said it.  It obviously appeals to my female-beauty addict-lover of sparkly things side, but truth be told - my hair gets stuck in it. ALWAYS.  Maybe I just have extra fly-away hair (a whole other list is forming), or don't know how to hold my head correctly, but I just don't understand how anyone with hair longer than your ears, wears gloss.  That being said, I am really drawn to products that mimic the reflective nature of a gloss but carry less tackiness.  And I love stick lip products -- so I bought a glossy like pencil. Duh.
6. Sally Hansen Gem Crush - Because I need another nail polish. That's why.
7. Revlon Color Stay Brow Enhancer - Again from a recommendation, this time a beauty blogger (Opinion Nothing - read her blog -it's awesome) - I'm such a push-over. It's a tinted waxy stick that claims to color in your brow, while holding them in place.  Double duty. I like it.
8. Rimmel Match Perfection Concealer - I needed a new concealer because I knew Monday was coming and I would be facing disgruntled under-eye bags.  This product was actually not on my list (rogue shopper), but I enjoy concealers with a brush and all good things are spoken of Rimmel.  So I bought it.  I have no self-control, the rain made me do it.

Stay tuned to hear if any of these rock my world.  And while you are tuned, check out my new videos on Viddy and follow along.  You can watch me record quick snippets of my life and then listen to my voice.  I don't have an accent, it's OK.  But what's not OK, is all the blank spots now on my "lists" that will need to be filled with more recommendations.  Tweet me (@alittlebitetc) or comment below with products that I must try.

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