Glo Minerals: Cheeks, Lips, and Skincare

Glo Minerals sent these products to me for consideration. I am in no way being compensated by the company, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. 

I've been a fan of Glo Minerals since they sent me the products featured in this post. I especially love the Moisture Tint, and wear it almost every day during the work week. I also love it during my trips to the beach for some added sun protection on top of my regular sunscreen. When I was contacted by them again to see if I wanted to test out a few more of their makeup and skincare line, I happily agreed. 

Blush in Bellini (soft rose)

Cream Glaze Crayon in Mimosa (soft peach coral)

Matte Suede Lip Crayon in Sorbet (bright fuchsia)

Cream Glaze Lip Crayon in Bloom (beautiful pink)

I have been wearing the blush in Bellini every single day for three weeks. It gives the prettiest color to my cheeks, and it really lifts the face and provides a healthy glow. It's neutral enough that I can wear it with any eye or lip color. It has a slight subtle sheen, but it's mostly matte once applied.

The lip crayons are exactly what I've been searching for. These are what I wish other brands would be formulated as, but unfortunately are not. I've wasted so much money on waxy pencils that just don't last. These actually stain the lips, so depending on how dramatic I want my lip color to be, I either draw them on for an intense dose of color, or I dab them on using my fingers to diffuse the color so it looks more natural. Either way, if there is one shade I'd recommend, it is Bloom. It's extremely wearable, but still a fun "pop". They also aren't as drying as other jumbo lip crayons I've owned (and consequently thrown away). 

Mimosa, Sorbet, Bloom

I was actually the most thrilled to try two of their skincare products from their Therapeutics line. You ladies know that I'm all about skin, and am a huge believer that it's crucial to take care of it now before it's too late. My skin isn't perfect by any means, but I have noticed a difference since using these two products, especially the serum at night. Even Nate has been using it! 

The pure hydration is a light-weight moisturizer designed for daytime. It feels like a gel, and it sinks right into the skin without any leftover greasy feeling. I may need something heavier once the weather changes, but this is perfect for California's warm climate. 

The renew serum is my absolute favorite now, and I got it just time as another oil I was using was running out. This goes on thick, and it almost has a slight sticky film that you can feel for a couple of minutes after smoothing it on. I like to concentrate on my cheeks and between my eyebrows since I have fine lines forming there. The smell is a bit off putting at first (it kind of smells like a cross between candy and medicine which is odd) but once I got past the initial scent, I actually have grown to like it. I will definitely repurchase after it's gone. It leaves my skin feeling supple and plumped. 

Eyes, cheeks, and lips by Glo Minerals (as seen on my birthday dinner)

Metallic smokey eye kit 

Blush in Bellini 

Lips in the colors Bloom mixed with Sorbet

Get a 15% discount at checkout when you use the promo code BEAUTYGIRL24. Trust me, these products are worth it. I'm eyeing more lip crayons and more skincare products.

Have you heard of or tried anything from this company? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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Beauty Chat & Keeping Things Simple

Hitting thirty has been a real eye - opener for me in terms of skincare and how I want to look and feel. If the twenties are about experimentation, then the thirties are for buckling down and getting a little more serious. I find myself craving simplicity. Gina mentions it in this post and I absolutely agree with her. Even if I find the time to take extra steps in my routine, I don't really bother. I'd rather spend those extra minutes playing with my dog or watching the news. Simple is just better, easier. I'm trying to downsize on everything, including my makeup and my wardrobe. I spent most of yesterday trying on clothes, organizing my closet, donating those pieces that just don't fit anymore, and tossing out old makeup. It was hard, because I can feel the weight I've gained over the last year but it also served as a reality check, and was cathartic as well. Small changes can make the biggest impact.


One change is that I no longer crave a matte face. My skin has matured, unfortunately. From oily to dry. I now want a dewy youthful complexion, the one I so desperately tried to hide just a few short years ago. Luckily it's pretty easy to achieve with the products shown below. I first spray fix + on my makeup sponge to get it really damp, then I pat a pump of the foundation over my face and use the dampened sponge to create a nice even glow. Once I apply the rest of my makeup (mainly blush and concealer), I spray the all-nighter for even more moisture. I no longer use a setting powder, unless I go to a special event like the weddings I attended this Spring.

I rarely talk about products I regret buying, but this has to be said. These makeup remover wipes are terrible. I really dislike them. Sorry MAC, love you. Love the scent of them, but these are a big disappointment. I don't know if I just got a bad batch but they are as dry as my skin is lately, and it takes multiple wipes and some work on my part to remove my liner, shadow, and mascara (and I don't exactly pile that on either). I'll stick to my Aveeno wipes. If they are good enough for Jennifer Aniston, they are good enough for me. 

I'm also sticking to wearing clothes that I love, and I'm going to take Gina's lead and not apologize for re-wearing certain items over and over...and over again. My Barcelona camisoles from Express, my Loft jeans, my white Topshop skirt - I want to be comfortable in my own skin, and part of that means wearing things that I love, even if there's nothing remotely new about them. It's easy to get caught up and compare yourself to others, but that doesn't get anyone anywhere. As a reader, I personally enjoy seeing how people re-work their clothes. If you wear something often, that must mean you love it, right? 

One of my favorite looks. A few days ago, I wore it exactly in the same way as I did a couple of years ago. I didn't have Nate take photos though, because I was afraid of repeating and now I realize how silly that is. 

Bottom line: Stick to what works, and most importantly, what you feel good in. Simplicity is key.

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Skin Care Stand-Outs

My skin stays fairly the same year-round, with a few exceptions. My skin in the Winter is often dry, especially around my eyes, cheeks, and nose. In the Summer, my skin is more normal but with oily areas on my forehead and chin. I think many of us can relate to this sort of combination, it's pretty common. I try not to change my routine too often because not only can it get expensive, but it can also wreak havoc on your complexion when you introduce new products that may not agree with your particular needs.

My "Winter" skin

 (fair, and a bit dry)

"Summer" skin 

(more color and dewy. Code for sweaty)

I know I've talked about skincare before, but it's been a long time since I've mentioned my stand-outs. You know, tried and true products that I swear by on a daily or weekly basis no matter what time of year it may be. Well, let's get to it then.

Cleanser:

Cetaphil

I've been using this for Lord knows how long. It's gentle enough for all skin types, and cleanses without stripping my skin of essential oils. My skin seems to be allergic to a lot of ingredients, so the more gentle, the better.

Exfoliators (face):

I rotate weekly between ExfoliKate and GlamGlow. Both deep clean my pores to get rid of any imperfections or build-up from makeup and oils. I don't break out often anymore, but my chin used to be the home of cystic acne. I think using good exfoliators on a weekly basis has made a huge difference in the overall smooth appearance of my skin. 

Exfoliator (body):

Lush Ocean Salt

I can't begin to tell you ladies what a great product this has been for me. I used it the day of my wedding on my arms and chest area and my skin glowed! I don't believe in tanning anymore, so the best way for me to get my skin radiant is to use this to expose fresh, dewy skin. It also smells like heaven. If you haven't tried Lush products, I would recommend this and the product I wrote about on Wednesday as a starting point.

Moisturizer (day):

Clinique moisturizing gel

Fun fact: I've used this since I was 19 years old. Now that I'm 30, it may be time to graduate to a more adult product, but this continues to work so well for me that I just can't bring myself to change. The gel formula is soothing, cooling, and it really does moisturize without feeling heavy. I love the canvas it creates for makeup in the morning. My husband loves it as well, and he has extremely oily skin. I think this would suit many different people. 

Moisturizer (night):

Josie Maran Argan Oil

This is what I use as my nightly moisturizer, right before I go to sleep. The best! You would think that an oil would be too heavy, or that it might lead to breakouts but it's quite the opposite. When I feel a little pimple coming on, I actually use this to spot treat it and the spot is almost gone by the next day. It absorbs rather quickly too. This stuff is a miracle in my opinion. I use it on my hair and nails too. I love multi-purpose products. 

Eye Cream:

Origins GinZing

I've grown to adore this eye cream. I was always loyal to Kiehls, and I still love that one but the origins really has the same consistency. The only real difference is that this has a pink tint to it, making it perfect for brightening the under eye area when I need help looking lively in the mornings. I'm NOT a morning person.

I hope I don't come off sounding like an infomercial! I stand behind these "stand-outs" and would bet money on them! Let me know if you've tried any of these, and what your thoughts are good or bad. 

Happy Friday!

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New In Beauty

It's hard to believe that it's been at least a couple of months since I last wrote a beauty post. After all, this is partly a beauty blog! Sorry guys, not sure why there's been a lack of makeup blabbing around here! The start of a season always has me itching to replenish my arsenal with pretty new things, so I promise to fill you in on any new discoveries. And there have been some new discoveries...

We keep it real lotion hearts

My friend Raeleen has been a makeup artist for years. She is the one who did my makeup for my wedding, as well as my gorgeous bridesmaids. She lives and breathes beauty! Well now she has started a new venture, and I couldn't be more thrilled for her as she is extremely talented, kind, and knowledgeable. She started her own Etsy shop called we keep it real, and it's centered around natural, organic beauty products that are not only good for your body, but really lovely to keep in your bathroom or vanity as well.

Raeleen was sweet enough to send over two of her organic lotion hearts for me to try out. It is love, my friends! I have sensitive, dry skin and I've always struggled with peeling, cracking, and itching. Especially my legs! Our desert climate is not conducive to nourished skin, so I'm constantly battling it. Her lotion hearts smell like lavender, and they are packed with essential oils such as coconut and cacao. As soon as I get out of the bath or shower, I place one of the cute little hearts in the palm of my hand and using circular motions, I rub it onto my arms and legs. The feeling is almost like using argan or moroccan oil, but less greasy. The moisture is immediate, and it really lasts throughout the day. I highly recommend them! They would make adorable bridesmaid gifts as well :) Her passion for natural homemade products truly shows in everything she does, so please take a look at her new Etsy.

Rose De Chloe, Chloe

If you love roses, then you need this new fragrance by Chloe. Need. It's like wearing a bouquet, and although that may be too much for some, it's sheer heaven for those of us who obsess over flowers. I do also enjoy the original scent, with all of its elegance and sophistication. It's one of those scents that you can wear happily year-round, whether in the cold or in the sun. And there's something to be said for that, right? 

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Radiant Magenta & Dim Infusion

I must admit, I knew I wanted to try at least one Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush as soon as the hype started. I own the powder version in Dim, and absolutely love the finish it gives to my complexion. These blushes are gorgeous! Buttery, smooth, and blendable, they are also quite pigmented! Much more pigmented than they appear in the pan. My favorite of the two I have is Dim Infusion. It's the prettiest peachy coral that leaves such a glow to the cheeks. It's what I have on in my last few outfit pictures. Radiant Magenta is also very pretty, but I think I need a bit of a tan to pull it off the way I envision it and to really do it justice. It's extremely bright on my pale skin now, but I'm sure come Summer, that one will become my new favorite. All shades are swirled with a corresponding ambient lighting powder, so the effect is very dewy once applied. No glitter or shimmer either, just a soft sheen that's flattering on everyone. 

I'm so happy with all of my new beauty acquisitions, and I even have some more to share in the lip department. That post will have to wait until next week. See? I'm going to be a better beauty blogger again, promise. 

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Daily Vs. Weekend & New Discoveries {Beauty}

Recently, there has been a drastic change between my daily makeup and the products I wear on the weekend. As many of you know, I work with kids that are involved in CPS. I travel to their placements and work with them directly on improving poor behaviors, teaching them coping skills, and helping them cultivate a talent, skill, or hobby in hopes that they may return to some semblance of normalcy. I spend most of the week driving. Dressed up clothes take a backseat, and my makeup is super simple Monday through Friday (unless I go out). I used to try and keep up with the makeup routine I was always comfortable with, but over the past few months, I've realized that less is more for work.

I use the Make Up For Ever HD because I find the formula very thin, almost like a tinted moisturizer. It covers some blotchy spots on my face, but it's very natural. I use MAC prep and prime highlighter under my eyes to brighten them up, some UD liner in Stash (which is an olive) on the lash line, and CG LashBlast mascara. I sweep a nude/peach matte shadow all over the lids and that's all the eye makeup I've been wearing. Some light pink cheeks, Revlon brow fantasy to cover some bare spots throughout my brows, and a dusting of powder and I'm out the door. Throughout the day, I apply a Revlon lip butter in Juicy Papaya or some old fashioned chapstick when my lips need the moisture.



My weekend makeup is definitely more fun! This is when I can play around and let my hair down so to speak. We usually have plans with friends, date nights, or we try to get out of town. We love our weekends!

I like to use my favorite foundation, Mat Velvet +, because it has amazing coverage and staying power. Once I apply it, I know it's there for the long haul. Hourglass primer also ensures a smooth, even coverage. I go to town with shadows (loving my MAC palette), although I keep them neutral because I enjoy playing up my lips with a bright color. I also find that I only reach for my bronzer and cheek highlighter during the weekend, but I'm not sure why. If you have any questions about specific products, please ask :)


Now on to my new "discoveries".

By far the best makeup remover wipes I've ever tried! That's a big statement right? How many times have I raved about Neutrogena, Ponds, etc.? Well I adored those, until I discovered these. Please try them! They are amazing. I love how saturated they are, even the very last sheet. They remove every last stitch of makeup.

I've wanted to try this body conditioner from Lush for quite some time now, but I finally went to the only Lush remotely close to me while I was on vacation last week. Now I've only used this twice, but it's SO GOOD! I used it to shave my legs and they have never felt so soft. I don't think I'll be using this in the shower daily, but definitely on the weekends when I want to feel extra special :) Did I mention it smells of roses? Gorgeous! 

Do you switch up your weekday Vs. weekend routine?

♥ Noelle

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New In: {Hair & Skin}

I am such a horrible beauty blogger. For those of you who just started reading my blog fairly recently, then you probably get the impression that I strictly blog about fashion, and that is not the case! I started Beautygirl24 almost four years ago, and with the full intention of blogging about beauty products and makeup, not fashion at all. Obviously that changed rather quickly once I delved into some amazing style blogs. I wanted to do the same! I've always thought that beauty and fashion go hand in hand. I don't think they can really be separated. I feel my best when I have on a fabulous outfit and when my lipstick looks just as great!

My beauty posts have been lacking over the past few months, and I can't quite figure out why. I guess I'm actually very content with the products I use on a daily basis, and they haven't changed too drastically since Summer. A new lip color here and there, some fun drugstore finds. But really, I don't buy as much makeup as I used to. I love my skincare routine, and I also love the products I've been using on my hair for the past year. However, I just discovered a few new things that I've incorporated into both my routines, and I have to tell you about them.

Hair:

Kenra Root Lifting Spray

Similar to a spray mousse that is used to add volume at the roots, but I love this because it doesn't feel quite as heavy once it's in my hair. I really enjoy the body it provides. I was previously using Big Sexy Hair Root Pump, and although I do still like it, I just prefer the overall feel of the Kenra. 

Paul Mitchell Hot Off The Press

The BEST heat protectant! Not only does it work well with hot irons, but it also leaves your hair super soft and shiny. It holds style very well. It's really like a heat protector and hold spray in one. If you swear by a straightener or curling iron, I think you'll love this as much as I do.

I also just purchased this curling iron by Hot Tools, highly recommended by the gorgeous Veronika. I love her hair. That soft, touseled, wavy/curl is so pretty on everyone! It reminds me of Lauren Conrad's curls. I hope to play around with it enough so that I can achieve the same look. *Fingers crossed*

Skin:

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Moisturizer Night

I have super uneven skin, and I've always wanted to try a cream that could alleviate some of the uneveness on my cheeks and chin. You're supposed to use this every night, but I alternate between this and my Josie Maran Argan Oil. So far, so good. I don't think the results have been dramatic, but I do feel that it's working. I think I need to keep at it for another month before I truly make my final verdict. 

Kate Somerville Exfolikate

I received this small tube in my Sephora All-Stars kit (which by the way was one of the best things I've ever purchased). There's a reason why so many celebs swear by her products. This exfoliating mask is serious business. I keep this tube in my shower, and apply it once a week. It stings a bit, so I only leave it on for about a minute or so. I distribute an even amount and using slow circles, gently rub it into my skin. My face glows. I definitely will repurchase once this is gone!

 Have you tried any of these products? Any recommendations for something else I should try?

I promise I will do my best to keep beauty posts coming, as long as I have something worth mentioning, good and bad!

♥ Noelle



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ElevenSkin {Review & Giveaway} ***NOW CLOSED***

A couple of months ago, maybe even longer than that, my blogger friend Andi emailed me about her friend's new skincare line called ElevenSkin. As you know, skincare is a huge subject for me these days. I remember when I was younger, I committed cardinal sins against my precious skin. I would sleep with my makeup on, I wasn't very worried about applying suncreen, and I really didn't have much of a product routine. I just didn't care.

Fast forward to last year, when I started noticing some changes. Although I don't break out on my chin as often as I used to, there is something else to take its place - little fine lines between my eyebrows, as well as some dryness on my cheeks, underneath my eyes, and around my nose. To clarify, I do have combination skin. My t-zone still gets rather oily throughout the course of the day, but my cheeks stay dry.

I was very happy with my skincare before I started using the ElevenSkin line, but am even more thrilled with these new products. If you'd like more backstory on how and why the line was created, please visit Andi's blog post. She explains it much better than I ever could!

Anyway, onto the review and giveaway!

I was sent four products: A day cream, a night serum, an eye cream, and a cleanser

Let's start with the day cream:

It's aptly named Protect, because that is exactly what it does. It contains SPF, soaks right into the skin after application, and feels very lightweight. It does vaguely smell of sunscreen, but the scent goes away after you blend it in. I alternate between using this as my daytime moisturizer and Clinique's moisturizing gel. However, now that I'll be outdoors more often, I will use Protect full-time.

The eye cream is called Smooth. This is incredible! I've never used a thicker cream underneath my eyes before. My beloved Kiehl's is much thinner than this formula. I just love the richness. I've been using it every night and have noticed a difference in how my under eye area feels. Plus, I know this will last a long time since only a tiny amount is needed.

The Hydrate serum is hands-down my favorite product from the line, and one I will repurchase the moment it's gone! This is also incredibly rich and creamy. I apply it at night to my face and neck. It made me nervous when I first tested it because I thought it would be too oily and therefore cause breakouts. Thankfully, none of these products irritated my skin. I really have noticed a major difference with this product. My skin looks and feels so much softer and more radiant. I think I was suffering from a bit of dullness due to the dry weather, but this has infused all of that lost moisture back into my face. Love it!

By the way, this and the eye cream are virtually fragrance-free. I do detect a slight scent, but it's very light.

Last but certainly not least is Refresh. This cleanser in my opinion is extremely similar to Cetaphil, my go-to cleanser. I say this because they have that same clear liquid consistency, are great for all skin types, and feel gentle when applied. This lathers a bit better than Cetaphil, and it has more of a tea scent. I'm very happy with it and so is my fiance who I catch occasionally using it ;)

Overall, I'm very grateful that I have these products in my life! I really do love the line, and I would recommend ElevenSkin to anyone with any skin type. The products are all natural and marine derived, which means no harsh chemicals that are going to strip or damage the skin.  The line is all about hydration, and it really is the key to better looking skin.

So it's giveaway time! (This will be a four piece kit like the one I have)

All you have to do to enter is:

1) Like ElevenSkin on Facebook

2) Leave me a comment that you did so with your email address in case you are the winner

This contest will run until Friday, May25th. You have a full week to enter. I will announce the winner on Monday, the 28th.

Good luck girls!

♥ Noelle

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What I've Been Reading: April

Hi ladies, happy Monday to you all. I hope you enjoyed your weekend and are having a good morning. I can't believe how quickly the month of April went by! That means it's time for monthly must-reads. April's question is: What's your best beauty tip/secret (aside from: drinking lots of water, wearing sunscreen and taking off your make-up at night).

For me, it's all about moisturizing, moisturizing, moisturizing! I think I look and feel my best when my skin is fresh and dewy. Although I use Makeup For Ever's HD Powder to set my makeup, I finish off with a good spray of Urban Decay's All Nighter or MAC Fix+. Not only does my makeup last longer throughout the day, but it also gives me a dose of hydration that leaves my face glowing. I don't like looking shiny, but I also hate looking dry. Taking good care of your skin and moisturizing every morning and evening is so important to me now that I'm in my late twenties.

Clinique Moisturizing Gel, MAC Fix+, and Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

Now for this month's must-reads:

• Beautygirl24 - Noelle has been discovering new beauty products. See what she recommends, and one product she thinks you should avoid.
• Ella Pretty - Ella's reviewing lip balms - find out which one tops her list.
• Lilly's Style - Lilly's keeping it simple.
• Pearls and Green Tea - Jiye shares her favorite make up essentials!
• Saltwater Dreams - See Andi's favorite inspirations for Spring.
• Schnelle Couture - Danielle has re-invented the traditional button-up: wearing it open and belted instantly transforms it from dressy to casual.
  
• Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette knows to add a bright color to punch up a "Casual Friday" look.

What are some of your beauty tips?
♥ Noelle

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Current Skincare Loves

Left to Right:

1. Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes in Evening Soothe. These have been my go-to makeup remover wipes for the past few months now. The quilted texture gets every trace of makeup, and the scent is relaxing for nighttime use. I've come to realize that many brands make great wipes (I still love Yes to Cucumbers and Neutrogena). However, I can always find Pond's on sale so I keep repurchasing.

2. Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover. This works wonders on heavy duty mascara, especially my Benefit "They're Real" which is known for being difficult to remove.

3. Josie Maran Argan Oil. This has been raved about from so many bloggers. This is my newest skincare addition, as I just added it to my nightly routine two weeks ago. I already love it, and can't believe how soft and supple my skin looks and feels when I get out of bed in the morning. I slather it everywhere. I concentrate on my skin, but it can also be used on cuticles, hair, and anywhere that needs a serious dose of moisture.

4. Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment With Avocado. Now that I'm in my late 20's, I notice just how sensitive the delicate skin around my eyes are.  I don't have any lines yet, but I do need moisture. This eye cream is amazing. This is my second jar, but it lasts forever. A little goes a long way. I use it not only before bed, but also in the morning underneath my concealer. If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it!

5. ROC Deep Wrinkle Night Cream. I mainly use this for preventative measures. I'm still fairly young ;) But I've said before that I do have little lines between my brows. I don't use it every night because it does irritate my skin slightly, but I try to apply a bit at least four times a week.

6. MAC Fix+. This is the travel size that came out with some collection I'm sure. I spray this on after applying my makeup, as well as right before bed. No reason why really, it just feels so refreshing and I love that scent. I didn't think it set my makeup well until I started spraying some on before using my MUFE HD powder. That does the trick, and my makeup stays on a few hours longer.

* I completely forgot to include my Cetaphil cleanser. It's gentle, it's soothing. It's perfect.

I'm always curious about skincare products, so there are a few things I want to try. I've heard some of you girls rave about Peter Thomas Roth. His correction pads are on my wishlist. I also have a friend that is sending me some goodies to test out ;)

What are your current skincare loves?

♥ Noelle

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Skin Deep

This past year, I have resolved to start taking better care of my skin. My love affair with cosmetics has taken a back seat, and now skincare has slowly become a top priority. The skin of a twenty-something is frustrating; I still get occasional breakouts, and I still have to deal with my oily t-zone. I also have noticed some lines forming between my eyes, and my skin seems to be more sensitive overall. I'm stuck between the remnants of a teen, and yet grasping with the fact that I'll be thirty in no time flat.  Oh, the best of both worlds ;)
Here are the products I'm currently using (and loving) to take good care of my skin's schizophrenic needs.

Cleansers

I use Cetaphil daily because it's so gentle. I use the generic CVS version of Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash once or twice a week, especially when my face starts feeling congested. I've used Neutrogena since I was 12, so I find it unbelievable that it still works for me now that I'm in my twenties.

Makeup Removers

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, Neutrogena Night Calming Face Wipes, Target generic version of L'oreal Makeup Remover

Moisturizers

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, Mac Fix +, Kiehls Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

Exfoliators

Philosophy Microdelivery Mini Peel Pads and Biore Pore Unclogging Scrub. I use the pads twice a week at night, the scrub once a week.

Sun Protection

CopperTone Oil Free Sunscreen, SPF 30. It doesn't clog pores and blends right in to skin so it doesn't leave a greasy residue. This stuff is amazing! Even the boy likes it.

What do you girls love to use? I hope it works well for you! The older I get, the more I realize how important our skin is. If you have any questions on any of the products I use, ask me below!

~Noelle

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Skincare Products I'm Loving!

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all celebrated with the ones you love and are having a great start to 2011. Isn't it so awkward to write the date? It's going to take me awhile to get used to!

I started this blog over a year ago to share my love of beauty products. It didn't morph into fashion as well as beauty until a few months later, when I realized that I love clothes and accessories just as much as I love lipstick and blush. But to kick off 2011, I have been wanting to share some skincare products that I am absolutely in love with. I have no problem recommending all three to each and every one of you!

First on my skincare must-have is the Kiehls Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. I first heard about this eye cream on YouTube, but I now know many other bloggers who swear by it as well. This doesn't contain any anti-aging components, none at least I am aware of. If you're interested in banishing fine lines and wrinkles, I suggest trying another product (or a dermatologist). What this product is great for is moisture. I put this on every morning before I do my undereye concealer, and it acts as the perfect base for smooth application. My undereye area has never looked brighter, or felt more supple. This retails for $25.50, but a little dab goes a long way.

Kiehl's

The second product I'm obsessed with at the moment is another popular item here on blogger: The Microdelivery Mini Peel Pads by Philosophy. These pads contain lactic acid that "help exfoliate and smooth skin." I use one at night right before bedtime when my skin has been cleansed. I am still using Cetaphil cleanser which I also recommend. Once all traces of makeup are gone, I swipe a pad across my face, concentrating on areas where I have large pores and where I am prone to breakouts. This is usually my chin, forehead, and cheeks. I have used the Philosophy pads for almost a month and I can honestly atest that they are saving my skin. My pores look and feel tighter, and I haven't had a major breakout since I started incorporating them into my routine.

Sephora

Ok, so I just received these as a gift from my best friend Katie. We celebrated NYE together and it was our chance to exchange Christmas presents. She went above and beyond what she should have (thank you!) but I am so happy she introduced me to these, purchased from Forever 21:

Click here

No joke girls, these are the nicest makeup remover wipes I've ever tried and I have tried several different brands, including Korres and MAC. They smell exactly like roses, are super moist, and remove all my eye makeup without any tugging or pulling. I am stocking up the next time I make a Forever 21 trip. Try them!

Have you already tried any of these products? Are you using something on your skin that I should look into?

♥ Noelle

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Update!

Since I got a couple requests asking me to test out the Burt's Bees Acne Spot Treatment, I wanted to let you girls know how it was working. Well, unfortunately...it wasn't, or should I say, it didn't. I think it actually made my spots worse! I think I might be allergic to the tea tree oil in it, because instead of reducing my redness, it made the redness even more noticeable. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I just didn't see any results at all, and I used it more than a few times over this past week. I'm not saying it is a horrible product. Everyone's skin is different, and even though it did nothing for MY skin, that doesn't necessarily mean that it wouldn't work wonders for someone else. So I went back to CVS today and bought this instead:

It is the Neutrogena On the Spot Acne Treatment with 2% benzoyl peroxide. Now, I don't know if benzoyl peroxide is better than salicylic acid, but I have used products containing both and they seem to work equally well on my skin. I have been using Neutrogena skin products for years now, and have always had luck with the brand. So I'm hoping this one serves me just as well. I guess i'll have to wait and see! However, the next time I go back to Ulta, I am definitely going to buy the Mario Badescu drying lotion. I have seen so many rave reviews on that particular product. The only reason I ever held off on buying it before  was that I never really broke out that often, so I figured why spend the money? I shouldn't have been so sure that my skin wouldn't act up. But for now, Neutrogena it is...

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Burts Bees: Acne Spot Treatment

I don't know if it's because of college finals or the stress of the holidays that is causing my skin to freak out, but lately my chin and nose have become riddled with spots. I have never really had too much trouble with acne, but I did break out once in a while during my teen years. Oh the joys of adolescence ;) I thought that maybe once I reached my twenties, all traces of breakouts would magically disappear. I didn't take into account how stressful my last year of college was going to be. So, let's just blame my bad skin on school these days. I don't break out that often, but when I do, it isn't pretty. I get horrible cystic bumps, almost always on my chin. I think it must have something to do with resting my hand on it during boring lectures.

So this morning before class I went to CVS and bought the Burts Bees Spot Treatment. It is a little bottle with yellowish liquid. I'm hoping for a miracle. It contains 0.75% salicylic acid, which is supposed to eliminate current acne, as well as prevent future breakouts. Here is what the package says: "This natural spot treatment is clinically proven to help reduce and improve the appearance of blemishes without irritating skin. Formulated with tea tree, calendula, yarrow, and parsley extracts to help soothe skin and reduce redness and borage extract to promote healthy skin resulting in clear and smooth skin, naturally." Well i hope so! I have never tried Burts Bees, but I have heard many wonderful things about the brand. I am going to put some of it on a few spots that I have tonight and see how and if it works. I'm sure they won't disappear overnight. But I must say I am excited to try a new product, even if it is for something as annoying as blemishes.

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So happy I was able to get my hands on...

MAC's Volcanic Ash Exfoliator! It has been sold out everywhere, along with the Thermal Mask. But I found one at Macy's and it was actually the last one left! I'm so happy with this stroke of luck. I have yet to try it out, but I plan on doing so very soon. I hate buying into all the MAC limited edition hype, but sometimes I have to give in. I think this was a wise choice. I'm still working on my project back-to-MAC so I have yet to buy any makeup because I really want to use and enjoy the products I own right now. I just figured that the VAE was a skincare purchase...which doesn't count as makeup, right?! Ha, the ways I justify my shopping habit!

Has anyone tried this? Comments appreciated!

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