Hello everyone! If you are familiar with my blog then you might know that I am constantly experimenting with acne treatments. And I have recently come across a few that have worked wonders for my skin, and decided to share them with you in hopes that they might work for you as well.
The first product is one that I have been using for about a year and a half now and I have found that it works really well for minimizing breakouts over night and keeping my skin soft. This product is the Cuticura ointment. This is really similar to Neosporin except the active ingredient in this is phenol. Which is very commonly used in a cosmetic procedure to rid the skin of acne scars and wrinkles. This works (for me) in a matter of a few hours to really reduce my breakouts. You can get this off of the Cuticura website for about $8.00 plus shipping and handling. I'd really suggest this product to anyone who struggles with acne, and is looking for a new product to use. I also use the soap which I really like for getting my face squeaky clean in the shower.
The next one is actually a DIY and super simple to use. All you need for this is a tomato. Simply cut off the top, rub the juice on your skin and let it sit for about 10 minutes or so. Then rinse, my skin always feels soft, and I notice my skin looking clearer within half an hour after this. Careful if you have super sensitive skin, because this can make you really red.
Honey has been used as an anti-bacterial for thousands of years, the Egyptians actually used it on open wounds to prevent infection. It's still used today, little fun fact, raw honey has recently been shown to cure antibiotic resistant MRSA. How awesome is that! It's also very moisturizing. So anyway, there is a new fad that has closely followed oil cleansing. The most important thing for this method is that you get organic raw honey, grocery store brands tend to have non skin friendly ingredients in them. Once you have this, simply massage this on your dry mostly clean face for about a minute, you can also let it sit, then wash it off. Honey comes off very easily, no scrubbing necessary. When I use this I've noticed that my skin feels soft and moisturized and yet somehow less oily.
And last but not least, baking soda masks. This method is simple, jut mix however much baking soda you need and some water so that it makes a thick paste,and apply this to your face, let it sit for 10 minutes then rinse. Your skin will look a little red, but that'll fade quickly.
I hope this helped you all :)
-Caitlin
December 20, 2012
June 7, 2012
Acne and Foundation.
So let's say you have acne, and whether it be mild or severe you find your having a really hard time getting rid of it. You've tried everything and you just can't beat it. So you've resolved to just covering it up as much as possible. Well, have ever considered that it might be your foundation that is causing a majority of your skin problems? What many people don't know is that alot of foundations have pore clogging properties that can damage your skin and cause it to break out. So before you pick out the cheapest foundation in CVS (or any other store) because you don't want to spend tons of money, take a look at some of these tips.
Ingredients: Really do your research on common foundation additives. I highly suggest the book "Don't go to the make-up counter without me." I was only able to read the first few chapters (Nook sample) but even those were incredibly helpful. It helped me to understand very common, yet highly agitating and damaging, additives in all types of cosmetics, and skin care products. Also if you are trying many different types or brands of foundations try comparing the ingredients of each formula; especially if you find that one is working better than another. I know that it can be tedious looking at the long and painfully tiny print of the ingredients list, but it can really help you to avoid certain things in the future. For instance, lets say your using Bare Minerals and you find that when you use it you often develop some form of skin irritation. In this case I would say that you are probably having an allergic reaction to the Bismuth Oxychloride in this particular foundation. Having this in mind, you would be well advised to keep away from foundations with this in it. I know that it may seem like a large task, but in the end it will be well worth it. Because healthy skin means that you won't have to use as much foundation.
Forms of Foundation: There are so many types of foundations and cover ups. The most common being liquid, followed by mineral, powder, cream, mousse, tinted moisturizers, and BB creams. If your having trouble deciding what kind of foundation to use, the first thing you should take into consideration is your skin type. For instance, I used to think that I had oily skin, I only recently realized that I actually have combination to oily skin. If your skin type is similar to this, than you can use pretty much any type of foundation. If your skin is dry, then I would suggest a moisturizing foundation, tinted moisturizer, or BB cream. And for those of you who have true oily skin, I would suggest staying within the mineral to powder range, as these will help keep the oil at bay. For combination skin, I would really encourage you to experiment with all different kinds of foundations to see which works best for you. A little side note; If you have dry, normal, or combination skin that tends to have acne, scars, or general unevenness, I would really, really suggest a BB (blemish/beblesh balm) Most of them have all the coverage of a foundation, and are very beneficial to the skin (for more information see my post on BB creams)
In Conclusion: Remember everyone's skin is different and what works for other people with your skin type may not work for you. Play around, do some research, find what works for you and what makes you feel confident. Good luck :)
Ingredients: Really do your research on common foundation additives. I highly suggest the book "Don't go to the make-up counter without me." I was only able to read the first few chapters (Nook sample) but even those were incredibly helpful. It helped me to understand very common, yet highly agitating and damaging, additives in all types of cosmetics, and skin care products. Also if you are trying many different types or brands of foundations try comparing the ingredients of each formula; especially if you find that one is working better than another. I know that it can be tedious looking at the long and painfully tiny print of the ingredients list, but it can really help you to avoid certain things in the future. For instance, lets say your using Bare Minerals and you find that when you use it you often develop some form of skin irritation. In this case I would say that you are probably having an allergic reaction to the Bismuth Oxychloride in this particular foundation. Having this in mind, you would be well advised to keep away from foundations with this in it. I know that it may seem like a large task, but in the end it will be well worth it. Because healthy skin means that you won't have to use as much foundation.
Forms of Foundation: There are so many types of foundations and cover ups. The most common being liquid, followed by mineral, powder, cream, mousse, tinted moisturizers, and BB creams. If your having trouble deciding what kind of foundation to use, the first thing you should take into consideration is your skin type. For instance, I used to think that I had oily skin, I only recently realized that I actually have combination to oily skin. If your skin type is similar to this, than you can use pretty much any type of foundation. If your skin is dry, then I would suggest a moisturizing foundation, tinted moisturizer, or BB cream. And for those of you who have true oily skin, I would suggest staying within the mineral to powder range, as these will help keep the oil at bay. For combination skin, I would really encourage you to experiment with all different kinds of foundations to see which works best for you. A little side note; If you have dry, normal, or combination skin that tends to have acne, scars, or general unevenness, I would really, really suggest a BB (blemish/beblesh balm) Most of them have all the coverage of a foundation, and are very beneficial to the skin (for more information see my post on BB creams)
In Conclusion: Remember everyone's skin is different and what works for other people with your skin type may not work for you. Play around, do some research, find what works for you and what makes you feel confident. Good luck :)
June 6, 2012
BB Creams!!
I recently discovered an amazing product. I mean truly amazing. Not only is it good for your skin but it also gives fantastic coverage. This product is BB cream.
What are they? BB cream is short for blemish or beblesh balm (same thing) this product originated in Germany when the plastic surgeon Dr.Christine Schrammek designed it for laser surgery patients to protect and give light coverage to the areas that had been operated upon. Introduced to South Korea and japan in the 80's it was soon dubbed "the secret of Korean actresses" and has been taking the beauty world by storm ever since.
What do they do? BB creams are a novelty product, which lightens skin tone by healing visible wrinkles and blemishes with excellent skin cover ability, and prevent skin aging through effective whitening and anti wrinkle properties.
Brands? Many popular makeup brands have tried to make a BB cream, mainly Estee Lauder, Garnier, Clinique and Too Faced. Though I'm not sure if these are true BB creams or foundations mascarading under the label. Some of the most popular brands that make true BB creams are; Missha, Skin 79, Etudde House, Lioele, Skin Food, and The Face Shop.
Who's it for? Depending on which one you get they can be either really moisturizing or just normal. I would definitely say if you have true oily skin then you should set it with a powder. Personally I set my t-zone and that keeps the oil at bay throughout the entire day. If you have dry or normal skin then you have a little more room to play. However I've heard that a few can bring out the dry patches in your skin. Personally I have one right in between my eyebrows (it's so annoying!!) but as long as I put a little moisturizer on before, it's not noticeable.
My suggestions; My current favorite BB cream (and the only one I've tried thus far) is the Missha M perfect cover BB cream. I love this product! It has really helped to improve my skin and , gives beautiful coverage, and looks and feels like my own skin. When you pump it out it seems like it would be really thick, but it's not. The consistency is quite creamy. The finish is the awesome part. I would describe it as a satin finish; not quite matte but it has no shimmer. The over all effect is really, really natural. Two big pluses for me are; you can apply it with your fingers (it actually looks better this way) and, it has SPF 42. Which makes it great for quick application. Also I've found that if you do 1 or 2 more layers over the first one, it can double as a concealer. A big claim for BB creams are the whitening properties. I've found these claims to be true, since I've started using mine I've noticed a big difference in the visibility of my scars. They are a lot lighter and much less noticeable. Also my acne has been much less aggressive since I've started using this.
In conclusion: BB creams are a brilliant product. I would highly suggest trying one. Remember to do your research before buying though, just to make sure you get the right one for you.
For more information and refferances:
I found this video very helpful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v9H1xI1GyM
I got my BB cream from the ebay seller rubyruby76. She is great, good prices and she got my order from South Korea to North Carolina in I think about 2 weeks, and she gives free economy shipping. How awesome is that?
What are they? BB cream is short for blemish or beblesh balm (same thing) this product originated in Germany when the plastic surgeon Dr.Christine Schrammek designed it for laser surgery patients to protect and give light coverage to the areas that had been operated upon. Introduced to South Korea and japan in the 80's it was soon dubbed "the secret of Korean actresses" and has been taking the beauty world by storm ever since.
What do they do? BB creams are a novelty product, which lightens skin tone by healing visible wrinkles and blemishes with excellent skin cover ability, and prevent skin aging through effective whitening and anti wrinkle properties.
Who's it for? Depending on which one you get they can be either really moisturizing or just normal. I would definitely say if you have true oily skin then you should set it with a powder. Personally I set my t-zone and that keeps the oil at bay throughout the entire day. If you have dry or normal skin then you have a little more room to play. However I've heard that a few can bring out the dry patches in your skin. Personally I have one right in between my eyebrows (it's so annoying!!) but as long as I put a little moisturizer on before, it's not noticeable.
My suggestions; My current favorite BB cream (and the only one I've tried thus far) is the Missha M perfect cover BB cream. I love this product! It has really helped to improve my skin and , gives beautiful coverage, and looks and feels like my own skin. When you pump it out it seems like it would be really thick, but it's not. The consistency is quite creamy. The finish is the awesome part. I would describe it as a satin finish; not quite matte but it has no shimmer. The over all effect is really, really natural. Two big pluses for me are; you can apply it with your fingers (it actually looks better this way) and, it has SPF 42. Which makes it great for quick application. Also I've found that if you do 1 or 2 more layers over the first one, it can double as a concealer. A big claim for BB creams are the whitening properties. I've found these claims to be true, since I've started using mine I've noticed a big difference in the visibility of my scars. They are a lot lighter and much less noticeable. Also my acne has been much less aggressive since I've started using this.
In conclusion: BB creams are a brilliant product. I would highly suggest trying one. Remember to do your research before buying though, just to make sure you get the right one for you.
For more information and refferances:
I found this video very helpful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v9H1xI1GyM
I got my BB cream from the ebay seller rubyruby76. She is great, good prices and she got my order from South Korea to North Carolina in I think about 2 weeks, and she gives free economy shipping. How awesome is that?
June 1, 2012
Update
Hello! Just a few quick updates, sorry I haven't posted in so long. I've been working on several very in depth posts, which I will put up in the next few weeks. Also, I'd really love to know if there is anything in particular that you would like to know about or want me to review. Please comment if you do. Okay, that is all for now.
Thanks a zil,
Caitlin.
Thanks a zil,
Caitlin.
May 21, 2012
Review: MAC's Luster Drops in Sunrush.
I finally got MAC's luster drops. I've been wanting this product for months and was finally able to afford it a few days ago. And in short, it.is.amazing! It has so many uses and is just plain beautiful. It gives your skin a gorgeous sun kissed glow and looks lovely dabbed on your cheekbones,mixed in with your foundation/tinted moisturizer or used as a normal highlighter. It is a bronzey gold with small gold flecks. I think it'll suit most any skin tones beautifully. It hasn't broken me out either so that's a plus. This product is an absolute must for any collection! There is one other color in this product, pink rebel, it reminds me a lot of Benefits "High Beam", I didn't like this color at all really, far to frosty. This product retails for around $18.00 to $20.00 dollars, And it comes with .60 ounces. I know that doesn't seem like a lot, but a little goes a long way.
In conclusion: Absolutely brilliant. Buy it if you can.
In conclusion: Absolutely brilliant. Buy it if you can.
April 23, 2012
How to: Red Eyeshadow
So, as you may know, I adore red eye shadows. Unfortunately, this color has gotten a bad rep, because it makes some people look "sick". However, I have found that the only reason for this is using the wrong shade of red, and improper application. As with many colors, red has a plethora of different hues. Cherry, copper, and deep brick are just a few examples of the range. If you are ready to boldly go where you may not have gone before, here are a few steps/tips, so you can look ravishing in red.
Step 1: Find your skin undertone. To do this just look at the veins on your wrist. Blue is cool, green is warm, and if you can't really see them, then you're probably neutral.
Step 2: Once you know your undertone, find a red eye shadow accordingly.(This trick also works for red lipstick). If you are unsure where to start, try asking at a make-up counter and they should be able to point you in the right direction.
Quick Tip 1: I've found that people with cooler skin tones look best in darker, more coppery reds. Where as warmer tones look better in more vibrant reds. Neutrals can go either way. The rules are not universal however, choose whichever looks best on you.
Step 3: Once you've found your red eye shadow, its time to experiment! You can come up with your own look, or even try one you found on YouTube or Google.
Quick Tip 2: Red eye shadow can make other redness on your face stand out, so make sure that you try to cancel out as much of the redness as you can. (Look for tips soon!)
Quick Tip 3: It is one of the rules of thumb in makeup that you should not wear red lipstick with red eye- shadow. I agree with this rule to a degree, I do think that a red lipstick would be a little too much for day wear. However, a sheer red lip gloss can look quite nice. I've found NYX supershine lip gloss in "Spicy" looks really good.
Step 1: Find your skin undertone. To do this just look at the veins on your wrist. Blue is cool, green is warm, and if you can't really see them, then you're probably neutral.
Step 2: Once you know your undertone, find a red eye shadow accordingly.(This trick also works for red lipstick). If you are unsure where to start, try asking at a make-up counter and they should be able to point you in the right direction.
Quick Tip 1: I've found that people with cooler skin tones look best in darker, more coppery reds. Where as warmer tones look better in more vibrant reds. Neutrals can go either way. The rules are not universal however, choose whichever looks best on you.
Step 3: Once you've found your red eye shadow, its time to experiment! You can come up with your own look, or even try one you found on YouTube or Google.
Quick Tip 2: Red eye shadow can make other redness on your face stand out, so make sure that you try to cancel out as much of the redness as you can. (Look for tips soon!)
Quick Tip 3: It is one of the rules of thumb in makeup that you should not wear red lipstick with red eye- shadow. I agree with this rule to a degree, I do think that a red lipstick would be a little too much for day wear. However, a sheer red lip gloss can look quite nice. I've found NYX supershine lip gloss in "Spicy" looks really good.
How I wear reds.
1. Using the Color Me Glow palette #2, I take the lighter of the two reds and apply it all over my lids.
2. Next I take the darker red and apply it in my crease, and just a little above it.
3.Then I take a fluffy brush, and fade out the two colors to give it a slightly smokey effect.
4. As a highlight for my inner corner, I use the yellow color in the palette on the inner corner of my eye. It's okay to go slightly over the red.
5. Then I take the yellow color, put it on the inner half of my lower lashline, and then use the red very lightly on the other half.
6. Finally, I used the Avon eye brightening stick in Pink Dust on my brow bone, (This is very similar to the Benefits Eye Bright)
7. I occasionally tight line my upper water line, for a slightly darker look.
Note: I apologize for the lack of pictures, my computer is not letting me load any at the moment =(
March 25, 2012
Quick At Home Remedies for Acne.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to spend a lot of money for a good acne treatment. In fact, some of the best can be found in your kitchen! The first one has been a tried and true favorite of mine, and that is...Apple cider vinegar. There are 2 common methods for this: Using it as a toner (at night so you don't smell funny), or (brace yourselves) drinking it. Now hear me out, there are way more pros than cons with this method. If you get true apple cider vinegar (I use Spectrum's) then it will contain Mother of Vinegar. This has amazing benefits for your over all health. It can increase you metabolism, balance high cholesterol, and help with both sinus and bladder infections. It's also great for you girl (or guys) out there with oily skin and hair. This is a simple and inexpensive method, and it works wonders. Yes, I have done several hair washes with it during the times when my hair was at its oiliest. Followed by shampooing of course. (Smell again)
The next method is a little messy. A turmeric face mask; I will warn you that it may give your skin a slight orange tint for a few hours (not my personal experience). You'll need two ingredients: Greek yogurt, it has a thicker consistency than normal yogurt, and turmeric. All you need to do is mix the two in a bowl (about 1 teaspoon or so of turmeric and a big spoon full of yogurt)and apply it to your face (always test it on a discreet part of your face first , just to make sure you won't end up looking like Snookie XD) let it sit for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. I've only tried this a few times, but both times it gave my skin a healthy glow, and improved the texture. This is also great for fighting free radicals, which cause aging in the skin.
The last one is an exfoliator. This is one of my personal favorites. You will need: green tea bags, sugar, and lemon juice. Again you can tweak this depending on your personal preference. Start by brewing the tea in 3 oz. of water, you want it to be strong. While it is steeping, mix 6-7 tsp. sugar and a small amount of lemon juice (1/4 to 1/2 a tsp. should do it) in a bowl. Once your tea has cooled, mix it in until you get a slightly runny but still grainy consistency. Now, with clean fingers apply this to your face, and scrub. I scrub for 1-2 min. You know your own skin, use your own judgement on timing. Then rinse off with warm water. Use the left over green tea as a toner (waste not, want not!). You can also blot the tea bags under your eyes to help with dark circles. Apply a moisturizer and you're done! :) This makes my skin feel a lot softer, and just gives it an over all healthy look. Just a side note: I occasionally have to do this twice just to get all the dead skin off, if you have to do this, make sure you wait a day in between so as not to irritate the skin.
If you have any questions or requests please leave comment.
-Caitlin
The next method is a little messy. A turmeric face mask; I will warn you that it may give your skin a slight orange tint for a few hours (not my personal experience). You'll need two ingredients: Greek yogurt, it has a thicker consistency than normal yogurt, and turmeric. All you need to do is mix the two in a bowl (about 1 teaspoon or so of turmeric and a big spoon full of yogurt)and apply it to your face (always test it on a discreet part of your face first , just to make sure you won't end up looking like Snookie XD) let it sit for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. I've only tried this a few times, but both times it gave my skin a healthy glow, and improved the texture. This is also great for fighting free radicals, which cause aging in the skin.
The last one is an exfoliator. This is one of my personal favorites. You will need: green tea bags, sugar, and lemon juice. Again you can tweak this depending on your personal preference. Start by brewing the tea in 3 oz. of water, you want it to be strong. While it is steeping, mix 6-7 tsp. sugar and a small amount of lemon juice (1/4 to 1/2 a tsp. should do it) in a bowl. Once your tea has cooled, mix it in until you get a slightly runny but still grainy consistency. Now, with clean fingers apply this to your face, and scrub. I scrub for 1-2 min. You know your own skin, use your own judgement on timing. Then rinse off with warm water. Use the left over green tea as a toner (waste not, want not!). You can also blot the tea bags under your eyes to help with dark circles. Apply a moisturizer and you're done! :) This makes my skin feel a lot softer, and just gives it an over all healthy look. Just a side note: I occasionally have to do this twice just to get all the dead skin off, if you have to do this, make sure you wait a day in between so as not to irritate the skin.
If you have any questions or requests please leave comment.
-Caitlin
March 19, 2012
Dollar Store Dupe's.
About a year ago I fell absolutely in love with Urban Decay's "Gash" eye shadow. I had seen it many times on musician, Gerard Way and loved the rusty red color. After finding out the name and brand I quickly went to their website, only to find that they no longer sold it. I checked other websites (Amazon, e-bay, etc...) but still couldn't find it. Disappointed, I gave up the search. Then a few nights ago I began to look for a dupe; the two most popular results being, NYX's "Rust", and MAC's "Cranberry". I looked at swatches of the eye shadows, and decided that NYX's was a bit closer to "Gash" than "Cranberry". A few minutes later when I was digging through some of my old makeup, I stumbled across an old pallet. When I picked it up, I noticed it had 2 red colors. To my surprise one of them was the exact same color as "Gash". Ecstatic I looked up the website for the company on the label, and located the palette on their website. It is called the "Color Me Glow" palette, and it comes in 8 different color variations. I have option number 2. And the price of this palette? $1.49! It is an amazing price for a great product. It has very good pigmentation,staying power, and great consistency(not chalky at all) also the company is cruelty free. I highly recommend these palettes.
Note: the darker red (middle row, far right) is the dupe. It also looks good if you mix the two red colors.
Links:
http://www.profusioncosmetics.com/colour-me-glow-12-shadow-palette-p-156.html
March 17, 2012
L.A Minerals review.
Let me start by saying this, L.A Minerals "Valley Girl" foundation is by far the best foundation I have ever used. It's just an amazing brand. Not only is it affordable, but it also lives up to its description. It really is made from 100% pure minerals. It is talc free, non comedogenic, non irritating, and long lasting. Also they do not test on animals (yay!). Their other products are fantastic as well. They have 3 foundation formulas. The first is "Hollywood", this formula is designed for those with dry/normal skin types, it has light reflecting properties, and has medium to full coverage. "NoHo glow" ( North Hollywood) is very similar to "Hollywood", although this formula is for those with "dull/lifeless" skin, it is made to give (as made evident by the name) a glowing effect. Their 3rd formula is "Valley Girl", this is made for people with oily, acneic, or scarred skin. I can personally vouch for this one by saying that it has worked wonders for my skin. It has full coverage, and has actually helped my skin clear up. This formula has a matte finish, and does pretty well at keeping oil at bay. One of the awesome things about this foundation is that it can be made into a liquid-like foundation, or even a tinted moisturizer by simply mixing it with a moisturizer. This is how I personally wear it . Two added bonuses for this foundation: It is such a light formula that you don't feel like you have on foundation, and 2, it does not turn orange. I had this problem with all the foundations that I used before this, and was thrilled to find that this one did not. All in all I give this product 5 out of 5. I highly recommend this brand.
To learn more visit there website
Note: I was not paid in any way to do this, all of these are my honest opinions.
March 15, 2012
Wisdom from Shel Silverstein.
“Listen to the mustn'ts, child. Listen to the don'ts. Listen to the shouldn'ts, the impossibles, the won'ts. Listen to the never haves, then listen close to me... Anything can happen, child. Anything can be.”
― Shel Silverstein
― Shel Silverstein
Hello!
My journey started with acne. Oh how I HATED it! 11 years old with a face full of acne. Not just pimples, but these little red dots, thousands of them. And the worst part, they just wouldn't go away! I tried everything, from drugstore brands, to Proactive, to prescription grade "cures", but none of them worked (not for long anyway) My skin had a tendency to build up an immunity to everything. Not only was my acne like a giant blinking sign all over my face, but it was also a constant reminder every time I looked in the mirror, a reminder that screamed, "You're hideous!" After years looking for a solution I finally found one...makeup! At the age of 14 my parents permitted me use of what I then saw as the ultimate solution for my curse. The one flaw with this, it only made it worse! Tired of my plight, my makeup quickly got darker and heavier, as my hatred for my acne turned in to deep self loathing. It became my way to say to the world, "Back off, and don't look at me!!" Thankfully I had a network of people who encouraged me to not let the acne define who I was. Continuing my search, I turned to YouTube and Google. I began researching different kinds of foundations and products which could help my skin heal. Along the way I discovered a passion for finding makeup with ingredients that would both cover and repair my skin, and helping other girls who suffered from the same things that I did. I would spend hours perfecting looks, and realized healthy skin IS beautiful skin, even with a little acne :). Over the next 2 years I found the products which slowly but surely allowed my skin, and self confidence to heal. Now I'm taking my knowledge from my 5 year journey, and writing it here for whomever may benefit from it.
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