PM skincare routine

i couldn't wait to share my PM skincare routine with y'all to complement my recent post on the AM skincare routine! the PM is a little more intense than the AM because it's the time of day where your face will be bare and clean while you get that beauty sleep on! this may seem overwhelming, but i actually look forward to all of this -- i encourage you to start a PM skincare routine that you look forward to! 

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01 | cleanse

dermalogica precleanse ($38 USD for 5.1 oz.) -- start your routine by taking all your makeup off with a cleansing oil. most of the time, these are to be used on a dry face before you do anything else. this gives the Clarisonic (next step) a clean canvas to work with which yields better results. i highly recommend this no matter how little makeup you wear. however, it doesn't come in the best packaging, so i fill mine in an empty Caudalie SOS serum container that has a pump. unsure? try the travel size

dermalogica special cleansing gel ($36 USD for 8.4 oz., pictured is the travel size $10.50 USD for 1.7 oz.) -- this was also mentioned in the AM skincare routine since i wash my face twice a day. in the PM i use the cleansing gel with my beloved, HG (holy grail) can-never-live-without Clarisonic mia. as i mentioned in my Clarisonic mia review, this brush works best in the shower and this cleanser lathers very well, isn't drying like foam cleansers, and fragrance free. 

02 | exfoliate

AMORE PACIFIC treatment enzyme peel ($60 USD for 2.5 oz.) -- this is one of the first powder exfoliators i've used and i love it. the only problem is that it's not really convenient to use. by this i mean that the powder is activated with water. therefore, if you leave this bottle in a place where there is moisture (aka: bathroom), it will clump up. this is a very gentle exfoliator and you only need a tiny amount. this bottle has lasted me almost two years and we're still going. i use this about 3x a week, activate it with water and leave it on my face and neck for about 30 seconds. TATCHA also makes a unique range of rice powder exfoliants in: soothing, classic, gentle, and deep. i have tried the classic powder and it also works great, very similar to AMORE PACIFIC without the signature AMORE PACIFIC perfume-y smell.

03 | tone

SK-II facial treatment clear lotion ($70 USD for 5 oz.) and SK-II facial treatment essence ($105 USD for 2.5 oz.) -- this duo goes hand in hand. if you are going to use one do it right and use the other. see my review on my SK-II regimen. this is also HG status in my life. if you are hesitant, i recommend purchasing the SK-II starter kit ($105 USD, valued at $130 USD) which will also give you the opportunity to try the mask as well!

04 | moisturize

Caudalie SOS vinosource thirst quenching serum ($49 USD for 1 oz.) -- i've used this for sooo many years now, and it's so good that i use it twice a day, AM and PM. 

TATCHA deep brightening serum ($185 USD for 1.7 oz / TATCHA also ships free to TX) -- this is the most expensive moisturizer i have ever used in my life. (gulp!) if you read this blog you know how much i love TATCHA products. not only are all the products outstanding, the brand, people, and company's philosophy really give it extra points in my books. i tried this serum in the TATCHA ritual discovery kit ($59 USD for four RE-FILLABLE travel size products, valued at $99 USD) and fell in love. every morning i honestly feel like my skin is more luminous and bright. however, there is one downside (besides price!!), i can't see how much is left in this pretty white bottle. therefore... i have legitimate fears that one day i will push down on the pump and nothing will come out. #thehorror

Kiehl's midnight recovery concentrate ($46 USD for 1 oz.) -- a few years ago the thought of putting oil on or anywhere near my face was out of the question. who would do that and WHY?!?! skincare has changed since and putting oil on your face is actually very accepted/encouraged these days. so i jumped on the bandwagon with this, my first oil moisturizer. it is supposed to, "regenerate, repair, and replenish skin for smoother, healthier skin." it also has the same scent as the midnight recovery eye cream, but nothing overpowering. i mainly use this for my neck. can't forget the neck!

05 | prevent

Kiehl's midnight recovery eye cream ($36 USD for 0.5 oz.) -- this was one of the first eye creams i started using religiously the past few years. you should've seen my reaction the day i actually finished ONE whole tube! it will take you forever so for the price, this is really worth it since all you need is the TINIEST amount. tip: apply using the tips of your ring fingers, i've read this is the softest finger and the best to use for applying treatments to the delicate under eye area. this is a thicker eye treatment than my AM Skinceuticals AOX eye gel ($92 USD for 15 ml) and works great as a PM treatment. it is supposed to, "diminish the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and reduce puffiness." again, with all eye treatments, you will not see the results immediately. i think that is part of the reason why people quit. remember, it's a preventative measure and the time to start is now, not when you start noticing the wrinkles or bags! 

Cle De Peau Beaute lip serum ($95 USD for 15 ml) -- i recently splurged on this. after researching, it was the pot-less application that sold me, not to mention that it is by Cle De Peau Beaute. it's supposed to hydrate, shape, and minimize the appearance of lines/wrinkles. i've used this for a few weeks now and wow, when i wake up in the morning my lips aren't even dying for lip balm! again, you only need the tiniest amount so this will last me a long time. #purchasejustified

in summary,

  • use a cleansing oil to give your Clarisonic a clean canvas to work with
  • exfoliate
  • moisturize your neck down to your clavicles!
  • use an eye treatment, apply using tips of the ring fingers
  • be consistent

what are some PM products you can't live without?

the time for a good skincare routine is NOW!,
JD

current lemmings -- august beauty

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01 | Tom Ford skin illuminating powder duo in moonlight (face focus collection, August 2015) -- one of the latest releases from Tom Ford beauty. this is a limited edition duo of highlighters used to, "capture the most flattering types of natural light on the skin" in a gel/powder formula (similar to Hourglass ambient powders). i haven't seen it in person, but the images are so pretty to look at! this is LE (limited edition), so if you are eyeing it, i do recommend that you purchase one now as most LE TF beauty products sell out reallyyy fast! great reviews and swatches on @temptalia, @TheBeautyLookbook, and @TheSundayGirl.
02 | Clarisonic alpha fit cleansing system for men -- not that this is something i'm lemming for myself... but i was SOOO happy when i saw this release a few weeks ago!!! (this is a great indication on how much i love skincare... when i get excited over skin products for men...) this is long overdue, but props to Clarisonic in making a brush for men. i like how the handle (or lack of) is designed for a man's use. in my opinion, men will be more inclined to use it and clean their face the right way! PS: it's never to early to start christmas shopping. just sayin'!
03 | Giorgio Armani luminous silk compact -- GA makes some amazing foundation, so i've heard. the luminous silk is one of their top sellers in fluid form, but this is the most recent release in powder form! 
04 | CHANEL stylo yeux waterproof long lasting eyeliner in pomme de pin (fall 2015 collection) -- finally!!! a black/brown eyeliner by CHANEL. PS: CHANEL beauty fall 2015 is stunning. 
05 | CHANEL les 4 ombres multi-effect quadra eyeshadow in 254 tisse d'automne (fall 2015 collection) -- this palette screams FALL with hues of green, peach, and brown. what a beautiful combo. my BFF purchased this, it is so pretty on her. i find myself drifting towards their counter lately just to look at it! if only i had time for eyeshadow. 
06 | deborah lippman nail color in it's raining men -- i have yet to try this brand! i've seen this color worn and it's so classy, the perfect fire engine red. 
07 | SK-II mid-day essence pitera spray -- misting has become... a thing lately. i can't rave enough about pitera, but wouldn't this would be a great pick me up? also travel size friendly at 1.7 oz. #mistyoself. 
08 | Hourglass ambient lighting powder in dim light (travel size) -- i have a thing... okay, maybe a slight obsession with anything travel size... and honestly, i know i am not the only one. (don't get me started on the travel size isle at Target.) this miniature is the cutest thing ever! not to mention, Hourglass powders are one of the best around. 

Nordstrom anniversary sale

have you heard? the Nordstrom anniversary sale is going on!

in my opinion, this is a unique sale because you are buying items at a discount to wear for the upcoming season. with other sales, this is usually not the case. after this sale is over, everything goes back to regular price. and suddenly, you might regret not making that purchase while it was on sale! don't let it happen to you! Nordstrom is very strategic as it only grants early access to this sale to their cardholders--online and in-store. this is GENIUS. makes you wanna sign up for their credit card before all the goodies are gone! as the early access comes to an end, i have gathered my picks based on what is left from the sale. 

tips on shopping the sale:

  • if you are debating it, get it now while it is at a discount then decide later. my BFF always tells me "buy now, decide later." LOL. 
  • unsure of size while trying to buy online? buy both. then return the other. 
  • shop smart. don't buy it JUST BECAUSE IT IS ON SALE! 

who | Nordstrom
what | major discounts off fall items and always FREE shipping on Nordstrom.com!
when | 07/09/15 - 07/16/15 (early access for Nordstrom cardholders); 07/17/15 - 08/02/15 (for everyone else)
whereshop.nordstrom.com or in store

my picks for the LADIES:

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01 | Rebecca Minkoff chevron quilted love crossbody bag in port -- wow, this bag is gorgeous. it screams fall. (and my name...hmm.. somehow it is making it's way to my house... not sure how that happened... lol.) i love the fact that is very similar to a CHANEL boy bag--from the chevron leather to the gold chain. this is a must. also available in a clutch in this beautiful blush/latte color.
02 | Clarisonic Mia 2 cleansing system -- i've already raved enough about the Clarisonic in my review here. this is a great time to pick one up if i haven't already convinced you to! in addition, the pack of brush heads are also on sale here
03 | Steve Madden staarz ankle fringe sandal in taupe suede -- now this isn't normally my style, but it's good to branch out and try new things. i really like the taupe suede and the fringe.. oh, the fringe!
04 | Paige skyline skinny jeans -- mid-rise skinny jeans? yes please. 
05 | Zella live in-out of bounds leggings in black -- a spin on regular black workout tights with mesh cut-outs. too bad it is already sold out in my size! 
06 | Kendra Scott hazel stud earrings in gold & iridescent slate -- i am a total stud girl. studs over anything dangly any day. also love the rose gold & navy.
07 | Marc by Marc Jacobs take your marc hobo in bright tangelo -- this color is great to wear year around. it's similar to my Foley + Corinna that i get a ton of compliments on styled here.

my picks for the GUYS:

01 | Cole Haan cambridge wingtip dress shoes in british tan leather -- wingtips are a MUST for men. a well dressed man will always have a pair of wingtips. this color is excellent for formal and casual wear.
02 | Nike fly 2.0 dri fit knit training shorts -- Nike makes some nice dri fit material, these have pockets too!
03 | North Face apex bionic softshell jacket -- available in a variety of colors. also windproof and waterproof. i can see this as a good gift that will come in handy.
04 | Anthony Logistics face saver kit -- great brand of skincare for guys. not many guys take care of their skin and what better way to do so with a starter kit?!
05 | Skagen hald multifunction mesh strap watch in silver & grey (Nordstrom exclusive) -- wow. this watch. i love wearing men's watches. especially my dad's watches. this Skagen is beautiful, the neutral against silver and the blue dial is icing on cake. 
06 | Ted Baker London cotton pocket square in green -- we've talked about pocket squares and i am liking the subtle print on this one with the hint of green. i can see this going with many different colored suits. 

beauty.com friends & family -- fall 2014

if you haven't shopped on Beauty.com, you are missing out! this is one of the sites i visit to purchase beauty products TAX-FREE! i repeat, TAX-FREE! i am always a fan of saving a couple bucks here and there. their friends & family sale just started today. details below:

who | Beauty.com
what | 20% off on any Beauty.com purchases. exclusions listed on beauty.com 
when | 11/04/14 - 11/07/14 (online)
where | beauty.com
how to get the discount | there is no promo code. the discount is link based. soo... 1) create an account on beauty.com first or 2) use the retailmenot.com link. the discount will automatically appear in your basket. note: the discount will not show for the items that are temporarily out of stock. 

beauty.com has some brands that you cannot find at your typical Sephora or department stores. a few highlighted brands: BY TERRY, Eve Lom, jouer, Kevyn Aucoin, Lipstick Queen, NUXE, and TEMPTU

my picks:

01 | Clarisonic Mia 1 sonic cleansing system in white or pink, or the Mia 2 -- if you haven't already, check out my clarisonic mia review. this is a brush you must invest in! if you do anything for your skin, let this be it. now is the only time you will be able to purchase this brush at a discount and tax-free (great combo!), so i highly recommend that you jump on it! UPDATE: it looks like the Mia 1 is already temporarily out of stock :( however, have no fear, the Mia 2 is still available.

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02 | Clarisonic replacement brush heads in sensitive -- stock up on the brushes you already use, or try some new ones. 
03 | Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. thirst quenching serum -- this is holy grail stuff right here in terms of hydrating. a staple i will never stray away from. 
04 | Kevyn Aucoin the sculpting powder in medium -- this is a great universal contouring powder, i love the finish and color. 
05 | NARS audacious lipsticks -- temporarily out of stock but hopefully they will be back soon. there is a shade for everyone in this collection. i love packaging on these. it is not the typical rubber NARS packaging, so it does not attract dirt. and it has a MAGNETIC closure, which i thought was super cool. my friend bought one recently and i'm jealous! 

clarisonic mia review

goodness this is a large picture of my face... yikes.. i hesitated to share it. but here it is. by no means do i think my skin is perfect, because it is not. i spend a lot of time taking care of it and this is what it looks like in all photos on this blog. no foundation, no photoshoppin'. just plain ol me. 

behold. my best friend. the Clarisonic Mia facial sonic cleansing brush. (try saying that three times fast!)

soon, it will be your best friend too... if you don't already own one.

from the Clarisonic website:
"Cleansing is the essential first step in a healthy skin care ritual. The patented Clarisonic Sonic Cleansing Brush uses a sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to deeply cleanse the skin far more effectively, yet more gently, than traditional superficial cleansing or simple rotating brushes. The result is noticeably smoother, more radiant skin." 

in my own words:
a few years ago, i hesitated to buy this brush. i didn't want to spend so much money on a face brush?! what was i thinking?!?! what a small price to pay for good skin. fast forward six years later and i am a total convert. i tell all my friends about it, their friends, and... basically anyone who will listen to me. i've convinced them to use it, their friends, their moms, and even guys! you would think i'm a clarisonic rep the way i talk about it. (hrmm.. ponders.) there are many lines from Clarisonic, originally i purchased the Clarisonic Pro. it had multiple settings, speeds etc.. it was too fancy for me. i didn't use all the features that it offered and the downside was that it was not easy to travel with. the charger was also a bulky stand. so, i went and bought myself a Mia 1 (they didn't have Mia 2 back then). i've been so happy with the single setting. it also comes in sooo many pretty colors. the brush itself is much smaller than the Pro and the charger is magnetic and tiny! Clarisonic.com has a good comparison between all the systems they sell. it looks like they are up to a Mia 3 now!

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how to use:
i use this brush once a day with a cleanser that has a good lather to it. i use the Dermalogica special cleansing gel. with your hands, lather the cleanser onto your face, wet the brush with water and whatever is left on your hands, turn it on and move the brush in a slow circular motion on the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin... etc.. i even do my neck. the brush will beep when the cycle is complete. turn it off, clean off the excess foam, and dry it off until the next use. i do not store my Clarisonic in the shower, but in a cool dry place like my sink. 

if you wear foundation/makeup:
i suggest removing all traces of foundation/makeup before using the Clarisonic via a cleansing oil or regular makeup remover. this gives the Clarisonic a clean canvas to work with which yields better results. 

replacement brush heads:
the only thing you need to do after buying the device is to replace the brush head every three months. you can keep it longer, but i found that when keeping it longer, the bristles would start to break down and therefore wouldn't clean my face as well. what's great about Clarisonic is that you can buy replacement brush heads that fit your skin type/needs. the replacement brush heads come in: radiance, sensitive, normal, deep pore, and acne. i use sensitive. they recently came out with a luxe line of brush heads for real sensitive skin or delicate targeted areas. the luxe brush heads come in: cashmere, and satin precision. the replacement brush heads also have a protective cap. i never use it, unless i'm traveling with it. 

here comes the analogy:
if you are wondering why you should invest in this brush... here's my analogy--how does a manual toothbrush clean compared to an electronic one? (insert long pause.) there is no comparison. you simply cannot compare cleaning your face with your hands versus a brush... okay, point made. and plus, the brush is doing all the work for you!! you just have to use it.

side note:
i also use a Sonicare toothbrush... twice a day and the results are breathtaking. (literally.) i'm never going back to manual brushing again!

recap:
this brush will change your life. well, at least your skin's game. and yes, your skin does have game. once you start using it you will wonder how/why you went so long without it.. trust me. when i first started using this brush i made a mistake and stopped using it because i felt like it wasn't doing anything. biggest mistake ever. good skin starts with a clean canvas, and this brush will get you just that. if you suffer from breakouts or have acne, this will help clear it up. if you think you have dull skin, this will make it radiant. remember, miracles do not happen overnight. the key here is to be persistent. 

purchasing:
if you are unsure, purchase the cheapest system. the Mia 1. if you want something fancier take a look at the Clarisonic system comparison mentioned above to determine which one is right for you. i'm also here to help you save a few more bucks by purchasing it tax-free (i can only speak for us Texans!) from Beauty.com (currently, they do not sell the Mia 3 yet).
Mia 1 - $99 (one speed)
Mia 2 - $149 (two speeds)
Mia 3 - $199 (three speeds, and larger)

join me and...
SAY NO TO MANUAL CLEANING!