Dr Murad Energizing Pomagranate Cleanser

I'm finally back after so long with a product review: the Murad Energizing Pomegranate Cleanser.

Usually I'm more of a drugstore skincare kind of girl. Having tried most brands I decided it was finally time to invest in a decent facial wash.
Drugstore gel washes have always left my skin tight, dull and dry (and yes - I've tried every brand from St. Ives and Neutrogena to Clean & Clear and L'oreal). Cream cleansers leave my skin feeling a bit icky like there is a film or product left behind.
So usually I end up washing my face less so as not to strip my skin of essential moisture and oils.


My skin type:
I'm in my mid twenties and used to suffer from acne as a teen. Luckily, now I only suffer from the occasional breakout and oily/combination skin. But I was definitely longing for that "glowy" and healthy skin look- sans make-up.


Enter the Murad Energizing Pomegranate Cleanser, and helloooooo: you cleanse and tone in one step.

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Product info: ($26 for 5.1 fl Oz)
This dual-action foam cleanses and exfoliates with AHAs to leave skin clear, soft and smooth, while Energizing Pomegranate Complex™ infuses skin with a healthy glow.

Additional features and ingredients:
•Witch Hazel removes excess oil without stripping skin of its natural moisture (good bye harsh acne fighters!)
•Tones and tightens pores

The verdict:
As soon as I tried this face wash I noticed the difference compared to all other gel and cream cleansers I've used in the past. One pump is enough to leave your skin feeling soft and cleansed. But bear in mind, just like all other cleansers, this won't be enough to remove foundations and make-up, so I use my Pond's make-up remover before. However this cleanser does work great on removing natural oils, dirt and any other breakout causing skin impurities. It feels so light you could easily use this in the morning and at night.
The smell is also pleasantly fresh and fruity!

Is the higher price justified? Absolutely! I can honestly say I'm sold on Murad products. Even though I'm a budget beauty lover and rarely venture outside the drugstore, I feel like it's ok to spend a bit more if I can notice a difference.
You could aksi rationalize the price by the fact that you only need one pump of this product to wash your entire face and it will last you a few months. The bottle is quite large and and you won't need a separate toner-this really came in handy when I took this on vacation with me. Just fabulous!

What's your favorite facial cleanser and have you tried this one?

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Skincare Routine And Tips For Clear Skin!

I skipped this months September Favorites, because I just felt like doing an updated skincare routine (which is ALSO a review of new favorites products I've been using) because I'm really ecstatic about the fact that I am barely ever breaking anymore. For once I feel like it's smooth sailing for me and my skin.
Age: 24 years
My skin-type: oily/acne prone
Wear make-up: everyday


Without further a do:

1. Clean & Clear : I recently ran out of my old cream cleanser which was by Noxema and utterly useless (I'm not even kidding), and hoping for the best I picked up this brand. "Hmm... she has oily skin and uses a cream cleanser?" you ask. Though exfoliating had been helping to keep my skin clear and remove  make-up, I didn't want to be TOO harsh and age my skin with daily over-exfoliating or by using drying face washes. That's why I like cream cleansers, because they're recommended for dry skin and thus leave skin soft and not tight.
I remember using this cream cleanser in my teens, when I'd find myself rummaging around at the drugstore hoping to find a miracle product to banish my breakouts. It didn't help dry up my pimples back then, but now that my acne is much more under control I fully appreciate what this cleanser has to offer.
It's thick, white and comes out looking like a paste, but as soon as it mixes with water it's ready to do it's job.

So in summary:
*gives a minty,tingly scent and feel to skin.
*removes most make-up (even my Revlon Colorstay foundation which is hard to remove)
*lathers up nicely even though it's a cream cleanser
*budget friendly: only $6

I do use my Pond's Cold Cream after to remove any left behind traces of make-up (since I use Revlon Colorstay which doesn't come off easy).

2. Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Toner : This toner is just Ah-mayh-zing. It's not your regular toner, because it's also meant to fade away post-acne scars! Sure I do have a few stubborn scars here and there which won't entirely go away, but I feel like this has really helped even out most of them.

PRO's:
*available at drugstores/Walmart
*only $7
*really helps fades post acne scars
*helps with preventing acne and deep clean pores to remove dirt/make-up traces

CON's:
*may be drying
*alcohol smell is noticeable and feels strong due to that

3. The Body Shop face brush ($4) : I bought this brush 2 years ago but didn't use it for long. After I saw Sephora had come out with their own version I remembered about it. Now, I wouldn't say this is THE softest brush but when used gently I feel this brush + my cream cleanser do a good job of removing make-up without being harsh.
I try not to use it every day, only at night when removing make-up and when I really feel I need it.

TIP: I'll alternate this brush and use an exfoliating scrub instead (by Garnier Fructise). I like mixing my exfoliating scrubs with my cream cleanser to create a gentle scrub that can be used everyday. All you need is one drop of your scrub and a dime size of your regular face wash.




TIP : don't let oil sit on your face. This may sound silly, but I didn't realize till recently that on days I wasn't wearing make-up, THIS was giving me break-outs. When you're not wearing make-up, chances are there's no powder or other product there to soak up oil being produced by skin. This leads to oil and dead skin cells clogging up pores and usually causing whiteheads and pimples.
So now when I'm at home and not wearing make-up I make sure to rinse my face with water every few hours. And if you're at school or anywhere, make sure to blot your face with tissue or special blotting papers.

4. Moisturize : I've been using Oil of Olay's Total Effects moisturizer, to restore moisture and counteract any drying effects of toner. I don't use this over, just around my laugh lines, eyes, and forehead. And even though it's a rich cream, it doesn't break out my oily skin.
You can use any moisturizer that works for you though, just make sure you're face isn't getting too oily (see point 6 again).


5. Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Gel : I use Neutrogena or Clean & Clear for those occasional whiteheads or pimples that pop up. And I use it under make-up so the gel can do it's job during the day too and dry up any spots. Then I use some at night again for emergency treatment.

This is just what's been working for me and what I do to keep my skin clear while freely wearing make-up on a daily basis. If you have any questions don't hesitate to shoot me a message and feel free to add your own tips.:)

Acne scars?

For those of you who suffer from past acne marks, you know those annoying dark spots which get left behind, so if you're looking for a solution definitely try The Alpha Hydrox 12% Glycolic Souffle she recommends.

First of all, The Alpha Hydrox Soffle has 12% Alpa Hydroxy Acid (which may be a bit strong for some, so you might want to use only 2-3 times a week). I read somewhere that Alpha Hydroxy in percentages of 4%-10% isn't effective for inhibiting melanin production and therefor will NOT lighten skin discolorations. Luckily the soufflé has a 12% of AHA. It also has a PH of 4.

Now, about 4 years ago before my acne cleared up, my pimples were gone but the dark marks remained.
After I tried pretty much any products available I went to the drug store and bought this: the results where amazing. I would wash my face; put the Alpha Hydrox Souffle on, let it set for about 5 minutes, and then put my moisturizer (which included sunscreen of course). After about a month, most of the marks on my face had lightened to the point where they were hardly visible, plus my skin glowed. I'm in no way being payed to endorse this product, but I definitely recommend it. It's available for only $15.99 in drugstores.

Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Blemish Fade Lotion Review

While vacationing in London - and shopping - I picked up quite a few beauty products. One of them was The Body Shop: Tea Tree Oil Blemish Fade Night Lotion.

What it claims:

A lightweight, soothing gel crème that sinks into the skin to help
improve the appearance of blemish-damaged skin, equalise oiliness and replenish
moisture while you sleep.

• Community Trade Tea Tree Oil from Bunjum Aboriginal Cooperative in Australia - Has natural antibacterial properties.
• Tamanu Oil - Sooths and helps improve the appearance of
  blemished skin. Is extracted from the nuts of the Polynesian
  tree.
• Glycerin - An effective moisturiser.

My skin:
I used to have acne but thanks to Proactive, the problem lessened ALOT most of my scars faded away fast. But since I do still break out ocassionaly with a zit or two, my skin can always use any help it can get.

My review:
Surprised that I really loved this! I don't know if it was the cool London weather, or the lotion itself, but for once in my life I had clear skin- without having to do much! I felt like shouting it from the roof tops (;if you've been struggeling to achieve clear skin for years/decades, you know what I mean.) Tea tree oil is has anti-bacterial properties so it would make sense that this stopped my break outs.

Before bed I wash my face and use a toner. Then slather a few dots of this all over my face.
In the morning I also wake up with soft and glowy skin. It smells a bit minty and herbal, but it doesn't bother me.

Overall I wouldn't say this is really intended to clear up break outs. It just helps with scarring and preventing future break outs.

Shrink That Pimple By Tomorrow!

Yes folks.. that age old question "how do I get rid of this pimple in 1 day?"
I can finally say that I think I have the answer. I love trying out products - beauty and make-up, but especially those claiming to fight acne. You name it, I've probably tried it (mostly during my teen years). But even though I'm in my 20's and have it under control, I still get the occasional pimple.

Clean n Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment ($6.50) claims that "100% of people showed clearer skin in just 1 day!" Too good to be true? I put it to the test on this one zit which refused to shrivel up and die and... it worked! I'm never going back to any other acne-on-the-spot treatment until this one fails me of course (or unless an even better one comes out:p).

This miracle in a tube contains 2% Salylic Acid and won't over dry skin. Within 8 hours it reduces pimple redness, size and swelling. And what's even more baffling is that it's so cheap too. Definatly one of my new fave beauty products.

Side note: after trying this spot treatment I took a look online and saw Clean n Clear also has a whole 3 step kit available. (Check out my other post about 3 step kits "say bye bye to acne for good"). For those of you looking for an alternative to, let's say Proactive, this one seems perfect, and only costs $18.

Drink your way to clear skin. (No! I'm not talking H2o)

Here is a yummy treat which will also give wonderfull results. Multi tasking:)! A friend of mine told me she tried it and she ended up with such clean, glowing and clear skin. It's called a Creamy Mango Smoothie.

Ingredients:
1 mango
1 bannana
wedge of fresh coconut
1 orange (freshly squeezed)


Instructions:
Blend the mango, banana and coconut. Add the orange juice, mix well and serve. That and use a good acne face wash/regime.

Also: Drinking hot water and half of a freshly squeezed lemon first thing in the morning before eating is a really good way to boost the metabolism and clear your pallette.

How To Get Bacne Free

If you suffer from occasional body acne break outs you're not the only one. I occasionally get em too and envy those who have perfect skin.

After searching for various products (Clean & Clear was one of them) which never really seem to work I think I found a better solution: NEW! St. Ives Clear Pore Body Wash.

You can get it for only...
/drum roll
a few bucks!! ($4.00).

On the front of the bottle, St. Ives claims that “this oil-free formula clarifies pores to keep skin fresh and clear ”... “pores all over your body can get clogged with dirt and oils. St. Ives Clear Pore Body Wash with tea tree is naturally effective and 100% oil-free, so it keeps skin fresh and clear from head to toe.”

Tea Tree is a pure oil that is primarily found in Australia. It's widely known to have antibacterial properties and is recognized as an antiseptic by the FDA. It also used as a topical agent for the skin for minor cuts, rashes, stings, & blemishes. Tea tree oil is very similar to benzoyl peroxide, but doesn’t leave the skin as dry.

I was am also so pleased with the nice refresing scent of it since so many other products which contain tee trea don't smell as nice. It also foams up so well to boot and my skin is left feeling soft. So far it's been keeping my acne in check and I use it on my face too if I'm in a hurry and in the shower.
Sooo.. I definatly will be buying this again and I recommend it to any of you who wanto to keep your skin clear.

If you have more severe acne look into Neutrogenas Rapid Clear treatment pads. I tried em and it worked really well too.

Acne Fighting Egg Mask

Most home remedies and tips will prevent future pimples from forming which is great. But if you want to try and clear up existing acne and dry up existing blemishes, for oily skin try an egg white mask. It's also extremely cheap and who doesn't love that right? (costs about $0.25-$1.00).

Use it as an extra along with any other acne regimen you are using.

Crack an egg and seperate the yolk and the white... Then beat the egg wite. Use a cotton pad to dip into the egg and apply generously to face or any area. Leave on for 15-20 minutes.

Your face will feel tight while the mask is on. Wash it off and your skin will immediately feel soft and rejuvenated. The mixture should stay good for 2-3 days.

Like I said in another post, don't use this every day! Your skin does get immune to it and you don't want that happening until your acne clears up.

The only con of this mask is the smell, but I think you will get over it pretty quick.

Click here for reviews from hundreds of other users of this method.

Also: want to get rid of blackheads?? Your perfect choice for a face mask is adding a few drops of lemon juice to the egg white. Just keep in mind (for dry skin) that these 2 ingredients do have a drying effect. Lemon contains natural astringents.

Say Bye Bye To Acne - For Good

As someone who has suffered in the past from acne I will provide you with some vital tried and tested tips.

***CLEANSE your skin***

It's really, extremely important to wash your face twice a day- morning and night- with a gentle, oil and frangrance free cleanser. Don't wash your face with the same body soap while in the shower as it will dry out your skin and clog your pores causing more pimples.

As you know there are 4 skin types: oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin.
I have oily/acne prone skin, so I always use a cleaner with either: benzoil peroxide or salicylic acid.
I also use a very gentle scrub (rounded mini beads which are not grainy and will hurt your skin.. I mean I know it's called a scrub but your not trying to scrub your skin OFF.) Scrubbing too hard will irritate and dry out skin making the pimples and pores redder as well.

I also use a toner because of my oily face. I used to use an astringent (from Clearasil, Clean & Clear, etc. I've tried em all) but found them way too drying.

My tip: Believe it or not.. Before bed I have started using witch hazel (my fave: HUMPHREYS Maravilla Witch Hazel available at most drugstores for a few bucks) on my face. I was extremely skeptical about using it when someone told me about this.

All you do after washing your face is: rub a cottonball drenched with witch hazel over your entire face and let dry. It acts as an astringent and helps eliminate impurities and will help dry the skin (so it is only to be used on oily skin really) and shrink the pimples.

Applying it before bed is the best idea. As you sleep your body goes through a lot of things: you're skin, metabolism and other organs are all restoring and naturally repairing. It is also noticable that if you do your beauty regimens at night, you will wake up pretty pleased after a good nights sleep.

***TREAT your pimples***

Apply an acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid over your entire face, not just where you have whiteheads and pimples. It takes pimples about 2 weeks to show up, so by applying to your whole face you stop future breakouts from forming.

If you wear make up, apply an oil free moisturizer with SPF of at least 15 (higher is better!) in it and then apply all your make up. At night I do the same. I also apply some moisturizing eye cream under my eyes.

Actually I used the Proactive system for about 4 years. It's only recently that I stopped (since I started using Witch Hazel). But the Proactive system helped break my break-out cycle and reduced my acne remarkably, I can't complain. It takes 2 weeks to clear your skin up though, it's not some overnight miracle as some people claim.

***CONCEAL your pimples***

If I have a pimple I use some foundation over my moisturizer and and make up powder. I apply the foundation with my fingers or with a small make up brush/sponge onto and around the blemish. Use your clean fingertip to wipe away excess concealer around the blemish and, if necessary, apply another coat of concealer. Then brush powder (I use a big make up brush) on top of the concealer.


*Extra tips/home remedies:
-Apparently Visine (eye drops for red eyes) helps calm down red blemishes. Also ice cubes/cold compress.

-Keep your bed linens clean: dead skin, oil, cosmetics, hair products and dirt on bedsheets will be picked up by your skin while you sleep and will clog pores. -Keep your hands away from your face or other affected areas. They contain oil, dirt and bacteria that promote acne. Wash your hands often.

-A high-fiber diet of whole grain breads and cereals, bran, legumes (beans, lentils and split peas) and lots of fruits and vegetables is a good way to minimize eating the wrong foods. Often skin problems are rapidly improved when more fiber is added to the diet. Reduce your consumption of junk food and limit your total fat intake to no more than 20% of calories. Cut out hydrogenated oils. It helps give you a healthy digestive system and it's also believed that diets high in refined carbs promote acne.

-(!) It is very tempting to pop whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Whiteheads are clogged pores below the outer layer of skin and should not be squeezed. By following the program outlined above, the whiteheads will disappear in a few weeks. Pimples may be squeezed when they are infected and have yellow pus if the proper procedures are followed---> Apply a warm compress to the area for a few minutes to open the pores, then squeeze with a clean tissue until all the pus runs out. This will allow the pimple to heal properly. Using fingernails will promote scarring and may be covered with bacteria that will enter the area and cause inflammation making your pimples worse. Lol, If I have a pimple I just stay far away from mirrors whenever I can for a few days till it dries up.:/

-Egg white mask: Clean your skin thoroughly and apply egg white with a cotton swab. Let it sit for 15 minutes. The egg white tightens pores and helps dry out your pimples. Don't do this every day though. Try it at the most twice a week since your skin will eventually just become immune to it.

-And of course: Never ever(!) sleep in make up. Drink your H20/water.

-Try to not wear makeup when you aren't leaving the house or are doing something like going to the beach or exercising; makeup may cover up bad skin, but I am convinced that it also makes it worse.