Today's entry is different from what I usually share. The purpose of this post is to share the products I use and to tell you my experience in using them. I am not claiming myself to be an expert about skincare or even a beauty/makeup connoisseur.
In the past I wrote a couple of entries about body products I truly love and are still using until today. Although sometimes you will see me using a different brand. The reason why is, it seems like my skin changes every summer or winter which I find quite annoying. I would prefer using the same products all year round but my skin isn't the same 24/7. Do some of you experience the same thing?
As time goes by I learn more and more about my skin and the products I use. I feel like it's a never ending thing. I'm sure three or five years from now. My skin routine and some of the products I'm using right now will change. I've tried so many products before I found what works for my skin type. So at the present time these are the products I usually reach for on a daily basis. Some products here I've been using for over five or ten years now.
I also hope this post will urge you to get started with your skincare routine (reminding my 25+ readers out there to slowly start incorporating this routine in your life). All of this I just learned from reading beauty magazines and opinions from dermatologists and people. Some products mentioned here might not work for you depending on your needs and skin type. I am combination/oily. There are areas around my face that's oily or dry. So before buying any products, determine your needs and your skin type. This is a very important step.
When I was in high school I noticed that my face was starting to change. I started breaking out, blackheads and whiteheads started appearing on my chin and nose area. My face was oily. It was bad. I didn't want to see any people besides my family. I even remember an old lady commenting how awful my face was. I felt so humiliated.
One day my mom brought me to a dermatologist and the doctor started explaining to me that it was normal to experience break outs. I was entering puberty so my hormones were changing and that's how my body reacted. After a year of seeing my dermatologist, my face cleared up. Thank God. The medicine she prescribed worked perfectly. She also explained to me the purpose of cleansers, moisturizers and toners which I won't go into full details because I don't remember everything *sorry* and I know there are better blogs that can explain those. But I know you have an idea on what is their purpose and why we should incorporate them in our every day lives.
So this is where I started doing my own skincare routine.
Reminder: If you are experiencing hormonal cystic acne or any type of skin issues. Please consult with your dermatologist first before trying any of the products mentioned here.
The Body Shop's Tea Tree Oil (Serum for Blemishes)
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Photo Credit: TheBodyShop.com |
One of the worse things I experience when the time of the month comes are my pimples. It's something that I cannot stop from reappearing each month but I'm relieved to know I can treat it myself at home with this tiny green bottle.
I first heard The Body Shop's Tea Tree Oil from my mom. She made us try this when we were in high school. I never thought in a million years that this little bottle would be my savior in combating my blemishes. So thanks mom! :-)
Before using this product, I do my usual skincare routine - cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and this would be my last step unless I'm feeling a little extra. I put a drop of this serum onto my pimple using my fingertip or a Qtip and carry on with my day. It's so easy guys. The next day it may start to dry up depending on how big my pimple is. It will take a few days before it's completely healed. My only advise is to be patient and never be tempted to pop your pimple. It will work just let it do its own thing.
I never tried any tea tree oils besides from The Body Shop so until I find a better one. I will always use this product. I also tried their Tea Tree line for a year. I wanted to like it but it was not working for me. My face became shinier and I didn't see any amazing results so I stopped using it. But this serum guys, it's a must-have on your skincare routine. They last long, it does its job and the price is very affordable. I will always recommend this product to anybody.
Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Type 3 (for combination/oily)
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| Photo Credit: Clinique.com |
I don't understand why some people still don't include this step in their routine. I know a handful of men who uses body soap on their face like how do guys live with that?! Washing the face with an appropriate product is the key. Right guys? :') I would never ever everrrrr skip this step. Cleanser is a staple for me!
I have tried so many cleansers already and I still haven't found THE ONE until my cousin recommended Clinique's Facial Soap Type 3 to me and after I did my research. I finally bought their travel size version from Ulta. I suggest buying the set so you can also try the moisturizer and the toner. I must say out of all cleansers I've tried in the market. This one from Clinique worked really good for my skin type. This helps to get rid of excess oil without stripping away the moisture on my skin. It's gentle even when I'm breaking out.
I'm aware this is a bit pricier compared to other drugstore cleansers out there. But trust me on this guys, if you're in the hunt for a gentle cleanser for a skin type like mine. Please try this one. You won't regret trying it. Again, try this set from Ulta. So you won't feel like you've wasted so much money with one product if it didn't work out for you.
I also appreciate Clinique for categorizing their products by skin types: Type 1 for Very Dry/Dry, Type 2 for Drier Skin, Type 3 for Combination/Oily and Type 4 for Oily skin. Thanks Clinique for making our lives easier! :-P
Foreo Luna 3 (combination/oily)
Photo Credit: Foreo.com
Foreo Luna 3 is probably one of the most expensive skincare product I use. I thought about it for months before deciding to buy this device. I did my research and watched so many product reviews on YouTube. If you want to see a product review. Please click this link here.
I've had this for over a year now and I must say it's such a game changer on how I cleanse my face. I got this for a good deal. So make sure to keep your eyes peeled for their deals. Originally it was retailed for $199.99 plus taxes but I only paid $139.30 with taxes and shipping fees. It comes with a charger and a warranty for one year after registering the device on their website. I know it might still seem a lot to spend for this kind of device but I am really passionate with skincare and taking care of my skin. If I see something that will be beneficial for me in the long run. I'm all for that. I will invest on it and save money for it.
I already notice a big difference on my skin when I first started using Foreo Luna 3. My face felt more clean and rejuvenated. It also helps in exfoliating my skin to get rid of my dead skin. This device does not only cleans my face but massages it too. At the back of this device, there's another side with lines for serum application while massaging the face as well. I clean my Foreo with any gentle soap and let it air dry. The battery life is good too. I charge my Foreo for every six-seven months and I use it almost every day.
My favorite thing to do if I feel very extra and have more time. I steam my face with a damp towel while it's warm. I leave it for five-eight minutes then I scrub my face and put on a face mask. I have big pores so when I do this extra step. It takes out all my blackheads and helps to unclog my pores. It's worth it! :')
ProCIV Reusable Cotton Pads
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Photo Credit: ProCIV (Amazon.com) |
This reusable cotton pads from ProCIV is such a money saver and is also good for the environment although I won't say I live a 100% sustainable lifestyle because I still use household items that are bad for the environment but we try to lessen them.
I don't think I should write a long explanation on why I like this product. It's so direct and simple to use. But I really do appreciate them for including a laundry bag which makes it easier to throw in the washer without ruining each pads. I've been using this for three months already and I don't really have any major complains so far. It's thin so it won't fully absorb any liquid products and the pads are quite huge compared to the single-use cotton pads in the market. This is perfect for removing makeup and applying toner. I just wish they also came with a container where you can put them but I just reused my old scrub container. It works fine :-)
Thayer's Witch Hazel Facial Toner
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| Photo Credit: Thayers.com |
Even though I use other toners once in a while. I always find myself grabbing Thayer's Facial Toner in Rose Petal. I've been using this toner for two years already. This is my everyday facial toner. When my skin is not irritated or breaking out. I prefer using a gentle and alcohol-free toner. I like that it's giving me enough hydration to keep my skin healthy but not too shiny. The scent is not too strong compared to the lavender and cucumber. I also tried their mist version but I didn't see any difference between the two. This Rose Petal scent stood out from the rest in my opinion.
If I'm breaking out and want a stronger toner. I use Clinique's Type 3 toner. This product can feel a bit stingy, tight and you will feel a burning sensation while using. So please don't soak your cotton pads with this toner because it might irritate your skin. We do not want that :-)
Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
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Photo Credit : Ulta.com |
I'm currently testing out The Ordinary's Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution serum because I wanted to find a more affordable one compared to Mad Hippie but after using The Ordinary's I didn't see any results I had with Mad Hippie's Vitamin C Serum. I used Mad Hippie for two consecutive years and it gave me the results I was expecting. The acne scars disappeared, my sun spots were not that visible and my skin looked supple. My biggest issue right now is I always have new sunspots around my cheeks and eye area. Like I said this product helps to minimize them which I'm grateful for but I hope I can find a really good one to get rid of them. Even though my skin isn't 100% at its best condition, I will still use this and recommend it to anybody who wants to have an even skin tone. This is great in doing that.
I've read that Vitamin C won't reverse aging and the appearance of wrinkles/lines but it will help it to delay the signs of aging. I know I'm way too early to be worried about aging and wrinkles but I feel like it's better to start early than do it later when my skin starts to get wrinkly. Here is a link from Allure that will help you understand why using Vitamin C serum is good for the skin.
Clinique Moisture Surge |
| Photo Credit: Clinique.com |
I have a soft spot for gel-creams or any moisturizers that claims they are lightweight. I would be intrigued and will do my own research and the next thing you know I'm already testing it out.
Back in 2017 I had my first experience with Tatcha's Water Cream moisturizer. IT'S SO PERFECT AND AMAZING GUYS!!!! If only I can afford it. It would be my go-to moisturizer but guys I cannot afford to keep using Tatcha so I had to look for a product that will replace it but will still give me a healthy look without making my face so shiny. That's always been a problem with having a combination/oily skin. Most moisturizers I've used in the past threw me off.
One day my sister mentioned she's been using Clinique's Moisture Surge and she loves the product so much. I was a bit skeptical to try it because it might give me false hope and her skin is different from mine. But of course, just like I said earlier I easily fall for these things. So I checked Ulta's website and bought the travel size.
It's also my fourth month using the moisturizer and I must say it's a good-quality moisturizer. The consistency is almost the same with Tatcha. I like how it sits on my skin throughout the day. It's summer here and the temperature reaches 113F. So imagine the feeling of using a thick moisturizer on this kind of weather.... :|
What I also like about Moisture Surge is it compliments well with my sunscreen. It's not heavy and won't leave you a sticky feeling in your face during the summer. It's like your skin can breathe although I don't put too much makeup during the summer. I haven't tested it out with foundation on. Maybe I will soon and let you guys know.
This moisturizer comes in many sizes so you have better options when you feel like saving more money and please guys try this out when you can.
Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence
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Photo Credit: Sephora.com |
This is a s p l u r g e. If you guys have an extra money you can spend on skincare. It should go towards this product. To be transparent, you don't even need this product at all. But if you want to give your skin that extra treatment, might as well try Fresh's Black Kombucha Essence.
I was so hesitant to get this one because the smallest size they have already cost $32.00 for a 1.6oz which is a bit too much. But I heard so many great reviews from beauty gurus and friends. So I bought the most affordable size they have which is the 1.6oz.
On the website, the product seems to be too good to be true. I quoted this from Sephora.com,
The kombucha 8
Treatment essence with 8 proven benefits*
- Anti-pollution**
- Boosts luminosity
- Smoothes skin texture
- Preps for next steps
- Refines the look of pores
- Reduces the look of fine lines
- Improves skin’s bounce
- 24-hour hydration***
Before I started using the essence my pores were bigger and more visible than ever. There were also tiny bumps around my chin area and I saw how much dirt it took out when I used it. Even though it's an expensive product for this size. I would repurchase the Black Kombucha Essence for as long as I can. I'm all about delaying the signs of aging guys. Again... this is a splurge. You don't need it but if you want extra care on your skin. Try this one :)
Clinique Superdefense Broad Spectrum SPF 25
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Photo Credit: Clinique.com |
I still remember the day I first saw a sunspot around my eye area and I tell you guys I felt so scared and thought it was the end of the world for a good-looking skin. So I shared the news to my mom and sister about it they told me to start including sunscreen on my skincare routine. I also heard from beauty experts out there to forget everything else but never ever leave the house without a sunscreen and we must still apply sunscreen even if we're not leaving the house because UV lights are still present inside our home. Crazy, huh?
So when Clinique's Superdefense Broad Spectrum sunscreen came with my package as a sample. I immediately tried it and I'm impressed. I loved how it feels on my skin. Most sunscreens I've tried would leave a white cast on my face and it would feel very oily which I don't want at all. This is a very nice everyday sunscreen product. But if you would be out under the sun for longer hours. I would recommend using a higher SPF for the face.
I've used this tinted moisturizer by Australian Gold Botanical with SPF 50 as my everyday moisturizer when I was still working and if I didn't want to use any foundation. I use this tinted moisturizer. It blends well with my other makeup products and lasts all day. I recommend both products mentioned here for oily skin like mine.
Vaseline Lip Therapy Advanced Healing
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Photo Credit: Target.com |
Besides cleansers and moisturizers, lip balms are one of those products I easily fall for because it's a must-have, right? To keep those soft and supple lips, we must moisturize! Applying lipstick can be a pain in the butt when we have dry lips and it doesn't look attractive. It will bleed. It's painful and the food will taste like blood. We do not want that! So after trying tons and tons of lip balms since I became a fan of using makeups. I discovered that it's also important to prep our lips before applying lipsticks. And thank God I finally found my favorite lip balm. It works great by itself. It's affordable, unscented and it keeps my lips moisturized. I also use this every night before going to bed because that's the time of the day I don't eat and drink. So my lips will absorb the product really well and when I wake up the next morning. My lips is very very soft and moisturized!
Vaseline Lip Therapy Advanced Healing is almost available anywhere in stores. I got two products for the price of $2.49 :-)
St. Ives Blackhead Clearing
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Photo Credit: Target.com |
I'm aware St. Ives faced a lawsuit two years ago with their "Apricot Scrub" product for being harmful to our skin. To quote Deanna Pai from Glamour,
"... that the crushed walnut powder creates microscopic tears in your skin, exposing it to infections and irritation."
Upon reading the news, I quickly shared it to my mom and sister and asked them if they were still using the Apricot Scrub. Thank God none of them were using it at that time except for me. I've been using this product for a decade now and what would happen to my skin now if it's already damaged?!
Fortunately, according to the article the court eventually dismissed the lawsuit because there was no proof that it causes damage on our skin. So there, happily ever after! :-P I'm back to using St. Ives' products, this time I tried their Blackhead Clearing scrub. For my nose, chin and sometimes underarms just to exfoliate my skin there. It's affordable and it exfoliates my skin very well. I never tried any face scrubs products besides from St. Ives. If any of you can recommend me a good one. I will most definitely give it a try.
iWhite's Nose Pack
Photo Credit: Pinterest.com
Back in 2014 when I was still dating my husband. He would always sleep over in our house when he could and we would do skincare together and that's how I discovered iWhite's Nose Pack. After I tried this nose pack, I instantly fell in love with it. I was surprised on how much dirt it can remove around my nose area. I once saw my mom using nose strips when I was still in grade school and I never knew what it was for until I experienced these things. I even bought a box before leaving my home country and I politely asked my brother to buy me a box when he came over last December.
They last me for a good year. Although I still have many sachets here I'm also in the hunt for nose strips that are available in the country. Luckily I discovered Bioré's Charcoal Pore Strips that works well too. Just in case I run out. I know which one I will use unless I found a better one. If you have access to these products, make sure to give them a try. I'm not sure if this nose pack is also available in other Asian countries. I never heard of this brand before. So if you have any information about this brand and where to buy them here in the States. Please let me know in the comment section. Thank you!
I hope you learned something new from me or I was able to persuade you to start taking extra care of your skin. At the end of the day, no matter how our skin looks like. It's not just about having a perfect skin. It's about feeling good in our own skin and it's also about empowering each other regardless of how what we're going through as individuals.
Thank you for taking time to read my post today. I hope you're all safe and have a good day! See you on my next post :-)
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