Guten Morgen

My favorite part about traveling in Europe is the pharmacies, or apotheke in this case. I visited my brother in Germany for Christmas and stopped into literally every single one I walked by. The Germany apotheke have a few different brands that the other pharmacies through Europe don’t have, specifically Germany brands Dr Hauschka and Weleda. Since it was cold AF I decided to grab both brands cult products and give see how they held up in the freezing weather.

Not sure how I’ve never tried Dr Hauschka, I’ve been wanting to get my hands on some forever. It’s half the US price in Germany and they sell sample sizes, so I grabbed their top selling Rose Day Cream to try during the day. The texture is super rich, which I love but can only use during winter months due to having combo skin and large pores. Enriched with extracts Rose Petals and Rose Hips, Shea Butter, Rose Wax, Avocado Oil, Marshmallow, and St Johns Wart, this natural moisturizer deeply hydrated while soothing irritation and calming redness, making it perfect for cold winter weather. The texture is hella thick, so you only need to use a little, I cut it with a few drops of Biossance Squalane +Vitamin C Rose Oil to make it spread. My skin felt hydrated all day and definitely protected from the cold winds and nasty winter weather that I was definitely not use to.

For my night cream I grabbed the Weleda Skin Food. I had already ordered one of these off Amazon and have been using it on my hands but I keep forgetting to throw it in my travel back (twice now...). The packaging says it’s for hands, elbows, dry patches, but I love to use it as a night cream when I’m really dry and flakey (after a few too many nights of retinol?). One of its main ingredients is Lanolin, an emollient from sheeps wool that is one of the best skin protectors. A slew of natural oils and waxes make this thick cream feel and smell like happiness and dreams. I wouldn’t recommend using this every night as it is pretty dense, but on those occasional nights where you need intense hydration, give it a go.

All in all I loved both of those.  Even though my skin was dry from the elements, my skin is combination, so regardless of how dry I feel, my pores are still large and can get clogged from heavier creams.If you are combo and want to try them, avoid using them on the nose, center of the forehead, or areas where you frequently get large pores.I used the Sephora Collection Charcoal Nose Strip after using these and it did the trick for cleaning them out.

Space NK Sale

   

When I first started in cosmetics, they never went on sale, like ever.  With a change in the industry, consumers shopping differently and so many brands available, everyone can have the opportunity to buy luxury beauty products, you just have to know to buy.  Space NK is doing their annual clean out sale with mark downs up to 50% off.  You should check out all their offerings because they have a ton of amazing brands on sale in Haircare, Makeup, and Skincare.  Here are a few of my favorites on sale

Caudalie Premier Cru La Creme $79 down from $158 - In my top 5 favorite beauty products, this is my go to moisturizer when I am over trying new things and just want my skin to look good.I’ve been using it this winter and as always, my skins been looking phenomenal.If you haven’t tried it, how’s the time to grab one.

Caudalie Premier Cru Eye Cream  $49 down from $99 - Similar to the face cream this is also a favorite eye cream of mine.  Fine lines, dark circles, dryness, all taken care of in this kick ass eye cream.

African Botanic Neroli Infused Marula Oil $70 down from $140 - If you want supple hydrated skin, give this a try.I used it mixed with my face and body creams for 6 month (a couple years ago) and was completely obsessed.Easily absorbs for hydration and radiance.Definitely one of my favorite oils I’ve tried. 

Bakel Thio-C Serum $98 down from $196 - Even with the discount this ones a bit expensive, but I did try this a few years back and loved how much of a glow it gave my skin.The vials contain Vitamin C powder you mix into the vial and to use within 3 days while it remains active.I like to use my Vitamin C during the day, but this can be used AM and PM.You will definitely see a glow quickly with this active combination of Vitamin C + Glutathione. 

Natura Bisse Inhibit Tensolift $365 down from $730 -Now at the price of a car payment instead of a mortgage payment, you can try Inhibit Tensolift.Natura Bisse is, in my opinion, one of the best skincare brands on the market.This serum is designed to have a similar effect to injectables by relaxing facial contractions giving a smoother look to the skin.It’s pretty much the skincare product everyone wants, it just comes at a price.I honestly can’t believe they actually let it go on sale, Natura Bisse is one bougie prestige brand (I’m not mad about it though) 

There are a lot of other amazing brands and products on sale like Dr Dennis Gross, Revive, and Kevin Aucoin.  Head on over to Space NK and see what you can find.  Let me know what you get!

Icelandic Relief

Out of all the types skincare products, the one I am most particular about is my eye cream.  Why?  They either work or they don't, there's no real in between.  Let's talk about eyes, they are the first to show signs of aging because they have the thinnest skin on the face, so you see all that stagnant blood underneath; they're constantly moving, all blinking and shit, creating fine lines, plus smiling moves the thin skin on the sides creating crows feet.  Oh you had a rough night sleep?  You drank too much? Basically your eyes are just going to say a big "fuck you, we're gonna make you look old".  Now Botox will help with crows feet and filler will help with dark circles and fine lines, but when you're forking $4k+ a year just to get your eyes looking less than dead, you search for other options.

Over the years I've found a handful of eye creams that have made a real difference, most over $100, so I was beyond thrilled when I tried the $45 Icelandic Relief Eye Cream from Skyn Iceland.  I'm obsessed with their Hydra Cool Firming Eye Gels (they adhere to your skin so you can move around instead of laying still for 15min) so when Skyn Iceland had a special that included an eye cream I figured I'd give it a try.  Now I have a long ass queue of products in my closet of happiness, so thissat right in the back for a few months.  I typically use an eye serum then a cream over top, sometimes a different cream for am and pm.  I had 3 products I was using for about a month when my eyes said "bro, chill out" and started looking all kinds of irritated and old, I turned to my closet and looked for the most natural formula I could find.  I tossed all my other eye products to the side and just used the Icelandic Relief Eye Cream.  Immediately my eyes felt hydrated and less irritated. Within a week my eyes started looking brighter, and continued to look better and better.  I only needed the smallest pea size amount of this oddly textured cream, which feels like a fluffy cottage cheese.  I tried bringing back in a 2nd eye cream/serum but this was working so good alone, I continued to use it am and pm until the sad day that it ran out. 

Key Ingredients:

Saponaria Pumila: A plant that survived the Ice Age, it contains stem cells that that stimulate eye regeneration helping smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while reducing puffiness.
White Lily, Pfaffia, and Marapuama: Improve microcirculation, lock in moisture and help diminish pesky dark circles.
Rice Peptides: Help destroy the enzyme that breaks down collagen.

If you want a bomb eye cream, no matter your budget, definitely give the Icelandic Relief Eye Cream a go.($3.50 off with code MAGICLINKS350)  I hope you're pleasantly surprised like I was.

My other favorites, in the order I found them over the years and what they helped me with.

La Mer Eye Concentrate $205- dark circle

Natura Bisse Diamond Extreme Eye Lift $210- dark circles, lid lift, hydration

Caudalie Premier Cru $99- hydration, dark circles, fine lines

PerriconeMD Acyl-Glutathione Eye Lid Serum $120- lid lift, skin tightening, fine lines

C.E.O.

I've been a huge fan of Sunday Riley since I first tried her products and with my recent obsession with Vitamin C (I've tried like 6 different Vitamin C serums in the past year) I HAD to get my hands on the C.E.O. range.  I've been using it for over 2 months and have loved the results.

C.E.O. C + E antiOxidant Protect + Repair Moisturizer $65- It's call C.E.O. because it contains Vitamin C 5% (in the very stable, oil soluble form of THD Ascorbate) to brighten dark spots, prevent skin aging, boost collagen, and give anti-oxidant protection.  Exopolysaccharides - Comes from French Polynesian, these protect the skin from micropollution particles. Lastly is has Lime Pearl Extract for its AHA exfoliating benefits and Bisabolol derived from Chamomile to calm and smooth skin.  I love a cream with some texture to it, I started using this when it wasn't quite hot out and it made the perfect day cream, hydrating but not too heavy, as it got to humid and hot summer days I switched to using it at night and something lighter during the day.  Great all skin type cream, but oily skin may prefer it in the winter or evenings.

It's rare that I have a serum last longer than the face cream I start at the same time, but I'm still using C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum $85 and the cream is empty (I do tend to over use products and bring them all the way down to my chest).  The Serum contains the same Vitamin C at the C.E.O. Cream, only they use it at 15% for even more brightening action.  A Phytosterol Complex from soybeans helps reduce redness and skin sensitivity, making this a great Vitamin C for sensitive skin.  Saccharide Isomerate Extract helps with pore size, skin texture, and reinforces skins moisture barrier.  It also contains Glycolic Acid to mildly exfoliate and boost cellular turnover.  I found it interesting the Glycolic Acid also keeps the Ph of the formula balanced to stabilize the high percent of Vitamin C.  One pump goes a long way, which I loved because I normally kill a serum in 2 months or less.

After using these 2 products my skin definitely looks brighter, my pores have been non-existant, I've been in the sun quite a bit (with SPF) so I haven't seen my dark spots fade a lot, but I've been really happy with the results I have seen.  If you're looking for a glow, to even out your skin tone, and prevent future damage, definitely give the C.E.O. line a try. Available exclusively at Sephora and Sephora.com

Crème de la Monk

I worked for Lancôme when I was 18 years old and discovered the original Absolue Night Cream (which has been reformulated many times since), which was super dense, intoxicatingly fragrant, and made my face look like magic the in morning. Despite my combo/oily/large pore prone skin, I have an obsession with really thick face creams. Something about the rich texture that makes my skin look and feel so plump, unfortunately if I use them too many days in a row I break out. Fortunately I travel a ton and airplanes are dry as hell. For the past year I've been living off some La Mer samples I happened upon as my in flight cream. Even though I know it has mineral oil and whatever else questionable ingredients, I love it. As I was packing for NYC and saw my empty La Mer sample, I remembered I had the Fresh Crème Ancienne hanging out in my fridge! I haven't used this cream in years, but like the original La Mer it has a rich texture that feels like you could cut it with a knife and spread it on some toast. As I'm coming to the end of my 5 hour flight (which took off at 6:45am) I'm feeling exhausted, restless, sleep deprived, and my skin feels so hydrated, like the nasty recycled airplane air hasn't had any effect on it at all.

Crème Ancienne has one of those cosmetic stories that though it may be all hype and just a story, it has me sold. Based on the formula for the original face cream, Crème Ancienne is hand made by monks in a monastery. Like seriously? A monk makes this cream, I wanna know what kind of monastery this is and how do I sign up to hang out there for a week and slather this stuff on my face all day. I mean do these monks look super young? Whatever, they probably don't even use it. It contains hydrating ingredients Meadowfoam Seed Oil rich in fatty acids to nourish skin, Vitamin E for free radical protection, Chamomile Wax to decrease dry patches and soften skin, and Rosewater to soothe.

Fresh also makes some amazing claims for dry skin: Moisturizing for 28 hour, anti-oxidative benefits for 24 hours, Immediate smoothing of wrinkles, and 97% of users felt it moisturized and prevented dry skin while 90% noticed a nourishing effect.

While the ingredients aren't super advanced or really geared towards firming, lifting, or brightening, Crème Ancienne makes for one hell of a night cream or travel cream due to the protective barrier is creates on the skin. If you have dry skin or are on a plane frequently, I highly recommend you try Crème Ancienne. The cream starts at $145 for 1oz, but you use so little that this cream will last you for awhile.

Pre:Empt

For the past 3 months I've been using the PerriconeMD Pre:Empt Series Exfoliating Pore Refiner, Skin Perfecting Serum, and Oil-Free Hydrating Cream. The Pre:Empt Series is focused around the Nrf2 Antioxidant Support Complex that is found at different concentrations throughout the range.  PerriconeMD makes some of my favorite skincare products (Acyl-Glutathione Eye Lid Serm, Thio:Plex, Face Finishing Moisturizer to name a few) but the Pre:Empt Series wasn't what I expected.  The line is designed for those experiencing the first signs of aging, a category I fall into, and maybe it's because I'm use to much stronger skincare products that I didn't love it.  Here are my thoughts anyway...

Exfoliating Pore Refiner - As a person with large pores always getting clogged I just knew I would love this.  It was actually my second time going through a bottle, and I remembered why I didn't like it the first time.  I didn't feel it exfoliated my skin, tightened my pores, or even controlled oil.  The texture felt fine, it just felt inactive to me.  At $60 I think there are better options out there.

Skin Perfecting Serum - I always use a Vitamin C product as part of my am routine, I hoped this would be amazing as it is Perricone, but I felt let down.  Lightweight quick absorbing texture, but it didn't hydrate at all, I always felt a needed another serum over top.  It also didn't give the same glow the PerriconeMD Vitamin C Ester Serum does, and at $90?  I think it'll skip it next time.

Oil-Free Hydrating Cream - With the weather getting a bit warmer I thought an oil-free but hydrating moisturizer would be great, but this just wasn't enough for me.  I used quite a generous amount and always added oil to it (Milk Makeup Sunshine Oil). It's $75, skip this and go straight to their Face Finishing Moisturizer, it's $6 less, more active and you use so little it'll last you twice as long.

In closing, if you're around 25 with combo/oily skin and have the money to spend, this would be a great start to your anti-aging routine.  If you're over 30, have already been using anti aging, skip the Pre:Empt and go for something a little stronger.

Products available at Sephora.com and PerriconeMD.com

Bon Anniversaire Botox!

10 years I got Botox done for the first time by the phenomenal Dr Lisa Ginn in DC.  She made me look how I had always dreamed, frozen. Over the years as the appearance I wanted changed, Dr Ginn gave me a more natural effect and to this day no one has made me look and feel better.

Showing off my non-expression the first time I had Botox with my girl Any

I started doing Botox at such a young age to prevent getting older.  If you can't make the expression, you can't get the wrinkle, right?  I mean, I know I'm right.  Besides the preventative measures, it gives you the look of 8 hours of rest no matter how much sleep you've gotten, it's fucking magic.  Just to clarify, Botox gets rid of wrinkles, but it doesn't make your skin pretty.  You still need good skincare, otherwise you'll have crap looking skin with no lines.  It does not look good.  You need to do both.

Thousands of injections later, I'm on to a new chapter in my quest for youth.  I discovered Good Skin in Brentwood through a friend of my brothers.  This Anti-Aging Clinic is exactly what I'm looking for for right now.  Dr Lisa Goodman has worked with some of the best dermatologist and plastic surgeons.  Always looking to better her skills, she sought after the newest techniques, which brought her to Paris, where she still continues to go to learn the newest and most advanced methods. 

Did you know, Europe usually receives new injectables way before the US?  This gives them much more time to develop techniques.

I'm going to try and summarize this as best I can (Definitely see Dr Goodman, her explanation had me sold before she could finish).  At Good Skin, they create a Tailored Treatment Plan to address current signs of aging and prevent future ones.  Dr Goodman gives you a prioritized list of services that can help you achieve a natural youthful appearance.  I looked at her clients before and after photos, and holy shit, men and women looked like better versions of themselves, not like that had been completely overhauled.  Her techniques strengthen the skin so that you don't need tons of Botox, your face will have movement, it will look fresh.  She does treatments over time that build on each other to treat and prevent, so over time your treatments may change, you may need less of them, or different treatments each visit. 

As I happened upon another birthday last week, my eyes have been my biggest concern lately: crows feet when I smile and my brows naturally arch really high (drives me nuts).  Dr Goodman recommended some Botox to drop my brow, but strengthen my inner brow so my brows look straighter and more masculine.  Botox and filler on men can give a very feminine appearance, Dr Goodman addresses this with customized techniques to give a more masculine look.  Since I smile with my eyes, Botox around the lower part of the eyes can give a very plastic smile (I've had it, didn't hate it).  So to help smooth out my under eyes, she injects Juvederm VoBella through a cannula (check my Instagram video).  It felt weird as fuck, but I was so into it.  It's a flexible needle that goes under the muscle of your cheek to safely put filler under the eyes. (I chose no numbing, but you can definitely get it). Immediately I looked fresher, no bruising (some may, but I typically don't bruise from filler).  I can't wait for the Botox to kick in to see the full results!

My Tailored Plan has another treatment to help with my under eyes in the future, but what I'm really excited about is the lift for my jaw line, to sculpt my jaw and to prevent neck sagging.  I saw her before and after on one man and was about to max out a credit card to get it done right then.

Moral of the story, if you're scared about getting Botox and filler because of pain or an unnatural look, there are so many options out there, just do your research!  

Dr Lisa Ginn SKINN @ LRG in DC (she also gave me the best lips I've ever had, and I've been to a certain Kardashian Dr)

Dr Lisa Goodman @ Good Skin Brentwood 

I guess I really like doctors names Lisa...

MultiMasking

I've been putting off​ microneedling and my skin is starting to look meh, so I decided I needed a night of multi masking.

1. ​Milk Makeup Urban Defense Mask to cleanse and take off the makeup I off the makeup I had been playing with.

2. Mixed Sunday Riley Good Genes lactic acid treatment with Apivita Green Clay Mask for some deep cleaning and exfoliation.  ​

3. Removed that with Tatcha's Rice Enzyme cleanser for even more exfoliation​

4. ​ Ended my masking with the Skyn Iceland Firming Face Gel and Firming Eye Gels, obsessed with these, but forgot I ran out of the ones for forehead

5. As the last in my nighttime treatment I used some of the last bit of my Cle de Peau La Crème, I'm gonna miss it... :(

Products available at MilkMakeup.com​, Sephora, Apivita, Tatcha Skyn Iceland, Cle de Peau

I C, I C

The night of my micro-needling treatment, I starting the PerriconeMD Thio:Plex Intensive 2 Step Brightening System. This 2 Step treatment is designed to brighten skin, reduce hyper pigmentation, and lift and tighten the skin using potent active ingredients. Step 1 uses the "Thio Antioxidant" (Glutathione) a detoxifying and repairing agent.Step 2 uses high levels of a fat soluble Vitamin C, which does ya know, everything, brighten, lighten, and tighten.

Usage of this isn't exactly clear in the instructions, it says at night to do Step 1, wait till it's absorbed, then apply Step 2, wait 20 minutes, rinse off, then reapply to targeted areas.  After speaking with reps from the brand I was told to do this 10 nights on, 10 nights off.  The website says to use it for an 8 week period.  My review is based on the 10 nights I used it.

Perricone's consumer studies reported nearly 100% of users saying their skin was brighter, smoother, tighter, more youthful, and that it improved the dullness of their skin.  Here's what I saw...

Holy shit yes!  After a few nights of use my skin was GLOWING.  I passed on the '20 minutes and rinse" and just left it on, following with my night cream and tretinoin.  Mind you, I did just do micro-needling, an AHA peel, and was using tretinoin every night, yet my face didn't peel like it normally does.  My down time was reduced and my skin was back to its glowing ways and then some.  In just the 10 nights I noticed my concern areas (dark spots around my eyes) looking brighter, less dark. Pores were tight, skin was smooth and bright.  When I stopped my 10 nights my skin did start to look a little less bright, so I plan on starting back up and using it every night for the 8 recommended weeks to see what kind of results I get.  If you are sensitive to smell, be warned, Step 1 does smell like absolute sadness (think a fish market on a hot day), and while it does linger, the results more than make up for the smell.

If you're looking for an intensive brightening boost to your routine, consider trying Thio:Plex $145, you won't be disappointed!

Space NK Sale

London based beauty boutique Space NK is having a huge sale on some top brands, if you wanna stock up, nows the time. Here are a few of my favorites on sale.

Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm $32 down from $65 - This is an eye cream I've used multiple times and always loved.  Rich texture really hydrates and smoothed out fine lines.  Great for AM/PM use.

Algenist Overnight Restorative Cream $45 down from $90 - Another rich cream, smooths, firms, and lifts skin overnight.  My skin always looked amazing after this one.

Caudalie Premier Cru Riche $79 down from $158 - If you have dry skin, this is the answer.  I swear by the lighter weight version, but if your skin can handle intense, you neeeeeed this one.

Darphin Organic Orange Blossom $40 down from $80 - Darphin is always a favorite brand of mine, amazing aromatic products with that make you feel like you're at the spa.  I'm using the 8 Flower oil at night and so damn good.

Lots of other Algenist, Caudalie, Kevyn Aucoin, and Darphin (Prédermine and Stimuskin smell like happiness) products on sale, head on over to SpaceNK.com and check it out.

Micro-needling

9/25 Session Update

Since I love to switch out what products I use, here's what I used on my most recent micro needling session.  

1. I prepped my skin by scrubbing with the Dr Lancer Polish, this is hands down the BEST granular scrub you'll ever you.
2. Numb 520 to numb before needling. One other super exciting thing I found was a double use for my silicone mask, I use it to keep sheet masks in place, but it also holds down the plastic wrap over my numbing cream, which ALWAYS falls off. 
3. You can get a micro needling pen similar to mine off Amazon, or you can go through the hassle of ordering off Alibaba.com (though it takes a bit of back and forth)
4. Amore Pacific's new Vintage Single Extract Essence & Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Serum to prep and give glide to the pen.  Also my skin has been dry as shit, so that Resveratrol Lift Serum is packed with Hyaluronic Acid to plump skin.
5. My skin has been pretty good lately, so I don't want to do an intense treatment after this session.  I'm using the Caudalie Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Essence as a first step its mild Glycolic exfoliating benefits.
6. I'm jumping back on the Perricone Thio:Plex, this did wonders after my last micro needling session, so I think its time for round 2.  Its also gone down to $89!  I pray its not being discontinued cause this is my JAM
7. Topping my treatment with SkinMedica TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream to calm my skin
8. Can't forget my current 2 eye products, the Biossance Squalene + Peptide Eye Gel and Youth To The People Age Prevention Superfood Eye Cream, both have been treating my eyes good and not giving me an adverse reaction (my eyes have been all kinds of sensitive lately...)
9. Ending with some retinol.  I haven't been using retinoids much this summer due to so much time spent in the sun, so I'm keeping it easy and using my go to A313 to intensify my entire treatment.  Always a favorite!

-

I've always thought face tattoos aren't the best investment, but microneedling or mesotherapy, has been my obsession for the past year.  By request from everyone I know, here's the what, why, and how to's on my current favorite anti-aging treatment.

Let me preface this post by saying, I am not a licensed esthetician, dermatologist, or even a nurse.  I'm just an beauty industry veteran with a passion for staying young and willing to do whatever it takes.  All the information provided is based on my research and educated opinion, so take caution with this procedure

What is microneedling?  It's the process of puncturing the skin with a tattoo gun-like device at 0.1mm-2.5mm.  This is beneficial in 2 ways. 1. These punctures act like an irrigation system on the skin, creating pore-like holes that active skincare ingredients can penetrate deeper through, allowing them to treat the deeper layers of the skin where that they can't normally reach.  2.  These punctures are small injuries (that don't scar) so your body goes into repair mode, boosting collagen and plumping the skin, similar to how a laser works, just a different aggressor.  People see reduced acne scars, smoother texture, fine lines and wrinkles plumped out, and promote hair growth (I'm always sure to hit my eyebrows and hairline)

Microneedling vs Dermaroller - Microneedling goes straight down into the skin creating holes parallel to your pores, the creates less visible damage and is easy to heal. Dermarollers go in at an angle and can damage the skin.  Dermarollers are also difficult to sanitize, Microneedling uses 1 time use disposable needles.

How to use.

1. I like to make sure there's no dead skin that can get in the way of the needles, so a gentle scrub or clay mask work great to make the skin smooth. I also use retinol products every day leading up to and at least 5 days after the procedure, this makes sure skin is its smoothest.
2. This isn't the most pleasant feeling, it's like a tattoo all over your face. For anything over 0.5mm, I recommend numbing with lidocaine prior to treatment.  I use the LMK 4% lidocaine which can be purchased OTC at your local pharmacy.  Price ranges $30-$65 for a tube.  (I also just purchased Numb 520 from Amazon, it's way cheaper and 5% lidocaine and it works great) Applying a medium layer all over the face and cover with plastic wrap for 20-30min. You want the face VERY numb, especially the forehead, with the bone just beneath it, that part hurts the worst.
3. After you've rinsed that off (please remember you can't feel your face, the product is probably off, it just feels weird) I clean the skin off with alcohol, you don't want any bacteria on the skin prior that could get into the holes.
4. I like to put a treatment on the skin, depending on your concern, 1 to get the first boost into the openings 2 to give a slip to the gun to make the pen glide easier.  I usually use a hyaluronic acid serum and/or Vitamin C serum
5. Now you're ready for the fun part.  Choose a needle , either 9, 12, or 36 prong.  Only do the 36 needle if you're ready to have a very red face for a few days.  Your pen should have a range from .25mm-2.0mm or 2.5mm.  You can go as high as 2.5mm on the face (forehead, cheeks, temples, chin, jaw, neck) .25-.5mm on the eyes and nose (be careful, men who have thicker skin can usually handle .5mm, women may .25mm especially on the nose) and .25mm on the lips.  I do not recommend needling the eye lids.  The deeper you go, the better the results you will have, but also the longer the down time.  If you start bleeding, you're doing it right.  My forehead will typically bleed at 2.0-2.5mm, if you find you're not bleeding, especially on the cheeks, try holding the skin taut.  You can do the 2.0-2.5 every 8 weeks, 1.0mm every 4 weeks, and .25-.5mm every 2 weeks.  I like to do the intense treatment every 8 weeks, and do the .25-.5mm at the 4 week mark before a mask, aha peel, and retinol.  Gliding the pen over the skin can be a little difficult at high lengths, so a stamping method may be needed, especially on the forehead, you don't want to feel the skin pull.
6. Your face will be red and may be a bit bloody, take toner on a cotton pad and clean up the skin.  Follow with your active treatment - Vitamin C for brightening, Hyaluronic Acid to plump and hydrate, and/or Peptides for firming.  You may also chose to do a sheet mask and/or mild AHA peel, which will go super deep, so be ready for your skin to start peeling after a few days.
7. Always follow your treatment with retinol, it just works.  Your skin will be red and irritated for 2-5 days but after that you get this "holy shit" glow that makes all that pain worth it

I've seen med spas charge from $500-$1000 per session for microneedling, doing it at home is way more cost effective, but please use caution! I don't want anyone stabbing their eyeball with a 2.5mm needle or getting an infection from reusing needles.

Where to buy

There are a lot of microneedling pens on the market, I have one similar to this one, but there are plenty out there.  Just be sure to get one that has a rechargeable battery, no body wants to deal with a cord.  Be sure to also get needles from the same manufacturer to make sure they fit your gun.  Please, never reuse needles, that's gross.

Prep Serums
I like something with a nice slip so the pen can easily glide.  Lately I've been using my essence, Dr Ci Labo VC100 Essence, it has amino acids, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and a nice slip that lasts, making it easy to glide the pen over your skin.

After Treatments

- Brightening
If your main concern is brightening, stick with a Vitamin C serum over after your treatment, as of lately, my favorite has been the Skin Medica Vitamin C + E Complex $58, I didn't love the silicone texture at first, but the results make it worth it.  For added brightening, use the Dr. Jart Brightening Solutions Mask $9 right after needling, before your serums, that mask kicks ass.

- Hyaluronic Acid
If your main concern is hydration and plumping out fine lines, go with a Hyaluronic Acid treatment.  I'm loving the Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift $95 and Dr Perricone Hyalo Plasma $135.  Boost up with a hydrating sheet mask directly after your treatment, I love the SK-II Facial Treatment Sheet Masks $17, $95, or $135, they kinda do everything and just make you look perfect.

- Peptides

One of my absolute favorite serums is the Skin Medica TNS Essential Serum $150-281 depending on where you buy it.  It's dual pumps contain "Human Fibroblast Conditioned Media" on one side (allegedly baby foreskin stem cells) and a bunch of antioxidants and peptides on the other.  If you can afford this Serum, it's definitely one of the ultimate anti-aging products, I ❤️❤️❤️ it.

- AHA Peels

Korres Wild Rose Petal Peel is an amazing 2 step peel that exfoliates and brightens with AHAs and Vitamin C.  I've used this one the most after my microneedling treatments and as a weekly treatment, its one of my all time favorites.

- Retinol

Minimum 5 days prior to and 5 days after microneedling, you should be using a retinol.  If you have sensitive skin, yes you will peel a ton and have dry irritated skin, but isn't it worth it for the results after?  If you have a Rx tretinoid, use that, if not, these are a few of the retinols I use.

Skin Medica has 3 strengths in their Retinol Complex - .25 for sensitive skin, .5 for more tolerant skin, 1.0 for those of us who use everything on the face and have no problems.  This is one of my favorite you can buy without a prescription.

A313 $33 is still probably my favorite, even more so than prescription.  I love the thick texture of this French Vitamin A cream, and usually apply it as the last step in my PM routine, it always gives great results, especially for the low price point.

After my treatment tomorrow night I will be trying out the Dr Perricone Thio-Plex Intensive 2 Step Brightening System $145 which is an all over mask and overnight spot treatment to brighten the skin.  I've been meaning to try it and what better time than the new year! For my eyes I'm gonna to use the new Murad Eye Lift Firming Treatment, I got some samples as Sephora 100 point perks and I've loved the results!

Out Of This World

Lately my pores have been total assholes, just getting all kinds of clogged.I have combination skin, even though it's drier over here on the West coast, it still acts like combination skin when it comes to types of products I can use.My philosophy has always been strip off what I don't want with my cleanser and toner and then add in all the stuff I want with the many layers of products I use, but lately the heavier products I've been using have just been clogging my pores so much.I've very picky when it comes to cleansers and toners, I know within a few days if I will like them of not, there has only been 1 cleanser (Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Soap) and 2 toners (Belief Eucalyptus Herbal Extract Toner and Erno Laszlo Light Controlling Lotion) that I've purchased multiple times.

Enter Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip and Martian Mattifying Melting Water-Gel Toner, within 2 weeks my pores shrunk back down without drying my skin at all.  I've used Ceramic Slip twice before and really liked it, despite it not lathering, (which takes a little while to get use to) it leaves your skin feeling so soft and clean. It's active ingredients are:

- French Green Clay removes impurities and tightens pores while infusing minerals into the skin
- Vitamin C also helps to tighten pores, brighten skin, and stimulate collagen production
- Black Pepper stimulates circulation, leaving the skin looking revived

The new Martian Mattifying Melting Water-Gel Toner contains:

- Bentonite Clay which clarifies and tightens pores
- Manuka (a favorite ingredient of mine), which is closely related to the Tea Tree plant, is antibacterial and just kills anything bad
- Mashmallow to soothe and calm, probably why this Toner is so non irritating
- Cucumber, Green Tea, and Witch Hazel to tone and tighten.

As always, I apply my toner with the Shiseido Cotton Pads, you use so much less product and they are so soft!

I've also been using my Clarisonic Mia2 once a day, I bought their Alpha Fit Men's Brush Head and it's really helped by getting through my scruff to clean my skin that was starting to look a bit rough.

These have helped me to keep my winter routine of heavy creams going, to which I'm very happy, cause the Cle de Peau La Creme is working wonders on my face!

Flaky Face

I've been using tretinoids every night for the past few month, plus chemical peels, and microneedling, my skin was just starting to flake everywhere and nothing was helping.  I've been between night creams since finishing my Clarins Multi Active Night Cream, and using just ialuset hyaluronic cream and facial oils.  I happened upon a former favorite, Elemental Herbology Facial Soufflé Overnight Cream $84 that the amazing girls from Mecca Australia gifted me a few years back.  The dense, balm like texture, and intoxicating smell make this cream an all around amazing experience.  It doesn't feel like it fully absorbs, it lays like a protective barrier on your skin through the night so you want up with super supple hydrated skin.  Within 3 nights, my flaking was gone, and I was even mixing my tretinoid gel into it.  I'm so sad I only had about 2 weeks left of cream to use, but my skin is looking a hell of a lot better.

Sephora VIB Discount Time!

Chances are, If you're a Sephora shopper, this is your favorite time of year.  Sephora is offering 20% off for their VIB Rouge and VIBs this weekend and next.  This is the best time to stock up on all your favorites, try out new ones, and get those splurge items you've been holding off on.  Here are my must haves for this Bi Annual event!

Colour
If you haven't tried Milk Makeup yet, I'm gonna need you to jump on the band wagon and try out this easy to use brand (that I just happen to work for).

Sunshine Skin Tint $42 > $33.60 - Click-Roll-Blend. This is the easiest foundation you will ever use. Enriched with nourishing Avocado and Grape Seed Oil, this preservative free foundation gives coverage that looks like skin and wears all day.  Great for Dry to Oily skins who want to look fresh and natural.  I wear it in Honey.

Matte Bronzer $24 > $19.20 - I hate being white and this natural looking bronzer lets me live the lie of being bronzed during these winter months of heavy retinol usage.  Milk Melt Technology melts at the temperature of your skin blending in seconds. 

Concealer $24 > $19.20 - Since I don't like looking like I'm wearing makeup, and rarely sleep more than 5 hours a night, this gem is a life saver, and by gem I mean it has diamond powder in it!  What better way to brighten your eyes??  Arnica helps treat the dark circles, and Milk Melt Technology gets that concealer to blend super easy without creasing

Skin Care
So many great products I've been using lately, sorry I haven't had the time to post about them, I've been hella busy, but these some some products you just need to try.

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser $40 > $32 - I've been using this every night for about a month.  You massageinto dry skin then add water and massage some more.  It never lathers, but once rinsed, your skin is left exfoliated and smooth.  Great as a daily exfoliator.

Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift $95 > $76 - My skin has been so dehydrated from traveling, I'm obsessed with this hyaluronic acid rich spray.  Plumps fine lines and gives the skin so much moisture while still being weightless.  A must have during winter months.

Jurlique Nutri-Define Eye Contour Balm $90 > $72 - I just started using a deluxe sample size of this rich eye balm and I'm so in love.  The texture is so creamy, yet it absorbs into the skin leaving it feeling super plump and hydrated.  Might be my new favorite eye cream cause my tired eyes are looking real good y'all.

Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream $158 > $128.40 - Always a favorite of mine, this moisturizer does it all.  Hydrates, lifts, brightens, fills wrinkles, does taxes, cooks dinner.  I mean, if you haven't tried it, definitely give it a go!

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil $105 > $84 - Night time retinoid oil hydrates, brightens, smooths, calms, reduces pores, minimizes fine lines, everything you want from a retinal product without any irritation.  If you've been wanting to try a retinal but are scared of the side effects, Luna Oil is the for for you.

Hair Care
I hate washing my hair because day 1 always looks like a cheap cotton ball.  These are the products I've found to get my hair looking perfectly messy.

Rahua Voluminous Shampoo $34 > $27.20 - Rahua Voluminous Conditioner $34 > $27.20 - I had a sample packette of these that I fell in love with, then purchased the mini size to make sure, and yep, its my new favorite shampoo and conditioner.  My hair normally looks so frizzy after washing, this duo gives my hair volume, softness, and texture.  Plus the conditioner doubles as a styling creme!

Milk Sunshine Oil $38 > $30.40 - Since I like my hair to look lived in, I like a little oil in it to give that dirty look.  Sunshine Oil is also great on the face and body.  I mix it with the Reverie Rake $36 > $28.80 to give texture, hold, and an amazing earthy smell.

Milk Natural Dry Shampoo $14 > $11.20 - Since I try and only wash my hair every 4-5 days, this dry shampoo really helps me go the distance.  Cotton Fibers + Rice Starch absorb oil, leaving you feeling clean, no white residue, no texture, and a soft White Tea Scent.  I literally cannot live with out this.

Splurge
You're getting 20% off, so why not buy yourself something fancy!

Iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask $35 > $28 - I just got my 3rd one of these cause I keep leaving them in my hotel rooms!  This eye mask is infused with copper to help minimize fine lines.  Whether that works or not I don't know, but it does comfortably block out all light letting me get the best nights rest.

Clarisonic Smart Profile $299 > $239.20 - The ultimate cleansing system with attachments for face, body, and feet, you'll be cleansed and smoothed from head to toe.  If you've never used a Clarisonic, this is the only one you'll need to buy!

A Multi Active Lifestyle

A few months ago I posted that I receive the whole line of the recently reformulated Clarins Multi Active line.  Since I had used the line years ago (like over 10) and was now the target age for the product, I was very excited to try it again with the update.  So here's the low down...

True to Clarins form, the formulas are full of unique botanical ingredients. Organic Teasel minimizes fine lines caused by a stressful lifestyle, Myrothamnus fights the effects of daytime stress minimizing fine lines and boosting radiance and Organic California Poppy helps absorb the harmful effects of late nights and interrupted sleep.  They make the Day version in 4 formulas, Normal to Combination, All Skin Types, Dry Skin, and an All Skin Type + SPF 20 and the Night version in 2 formulas, Normal to Combination and Normal to Dry.  I started with the day for All Skin Types and night for Normal to Dry because I love a rich texture at night.  Now I have combo skin, and as much as I love a rich texture, it's warm out, my skin didn't need all the extra hydration and l was waking up with a little bit of clogged pores, so I switched to the Normal/Combo night cream and that solved that problem.  I continued to use these 2 for almost 4 months.  I did use the Normal/Combo day cream a few times during hot and humid days and while traveling to humid climates, it was the perfect lightweight gel texture for those days, but I really loved the texture of the All Skin Type cream for the dry LA weather.

Clarins has texture down, they know what will work for each skin type, so stick with what they recommend.  My skin felt comfortable and hydrated, but never heavy, every day I wore the creams.  My skin was always glowing, looking fresh, never a clogged pore (except when I tried the cream too rich for my skin).  During my time using these I also decided to give my skin a break from Botox.  I've been getting so many compliments on my skin even though I have facial expressions again. I remember in my very first Clarins training, my fabulous trainer Christy said the night cream will give 8 hours of sleep no matter how few hours I sleep you get.  Every morning I woke up looking like I got a full 8 hours of sleep (my average is an unhealthy 5-6), I almost didn't even want to wash my face in the morning for fear that glow would wash away!

Chances are, if you're in the 25-35 age range, when first signs of aging start, you're stressed the fuck out, not sleeping, and wondering why your skin isn't looking how it did 10 years ago.  The Clarins Multi Active line is a going to work great for you.  It protects from free radical damage while smoothing out those first fine line, so pretty much pausing aging and keeping you looking your best.  The night cream is my favorite of the 2 products just because of how amazing I look in the mornings, but the use of both of them together, you really can't go wrong! At $53 for the day and $56 for the night, they're an affordable luxury you can't afford to miss out on.  Which formula is your favorite??

A Mask A Day...

​My favorite part of my skincare routine is masking. It's fun, gives instant results, and makes a very forgiving selfie. When I heard L'Oreal was making 3 new clay based masks, I said oh hell yeah, sign me up! I mean, at $13 each, buying all 3 is still cheaper than any of my other masks. I tested them all out for you and have been pleasantly surprised.

As soon as I saw they were out, I checked out the ingredients online and was so happy to see they didn't have titanium dioxide. TD is the most widely used mineral sunscreen, and is also used to make skincare products have a white colour. When used in masks it doesn't do a damn thing except act as a cheap filler. As much as I love my inexpensive Korean brands, so many of them use it, probably why I haven't found a Korean clay mask I love.

Purify & Mattify Treatment Mask - Designed to unclog pores and keep this shine free, this green mask contain 3 clays to draw out impurities and eucalyptus to soothe skin.  Out of the 3 masks this was my least favorite.  Did I notice a big different? No. Will I try it again? Definitely, but it will have to go back to the end of my mask queue.

Detox & Brightening Mask - After reading the ingredients on all the masks, this mask contains the highest concentrate of the 3 clays.  Charcoal gives this mask it's jet black colour and pulls out dirt and impurities leaving skin super smooth.  This is my favorite of the 3 masks, my face looked super bright and felt hella fresh, my pores were noticeably clearer.  I think I only left it on for 10min, next time I'll leave it on for 15-20.  Great to use before a night out or to recover from a long night out.

Exfoliate & Refining Treatment Mask - Again we have the 3 clays, Kaolin, Moroccan Lava Clay, and Montmorillonite plus Red Algae to refine.  This mask has more of a grit to it than the other masks, provided by Apricot Seed Powder.  After its dried on the skin 10-15min, splash the face with water and massage to get extra exfoliation.  A great alternative to traditional scrubs, who doesn't love a multi-tasker??

For drugstore masks, even compared to high end masks, these are definitely great products, a total win for L'Oreal.  I'm hoping that they do well and L'Oreal continues to grow their masking category, I'll be the first in line to grab the next ones.  Which is your favorite?

A Fresh Face

When you're good at something you should probably stick with it.  Fresh has found their specialty and its definitely masking, they have captured a huge audience with their collection of face masks for all ages and skin concerns.  While typing this, I'm enjoying their latest Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy Boosting Face Mask.  It holds a huge cocktail of vitamins and fruit extracts containing AHAs to gently exfoliate the skin and leave it brighter and fresher.  Their clinical trials boast everything from refined texture, improved luminosity, and more of a glow with continued use.  I've immediately noticed smoother skin and I definitely have a glow.  Great for a quick fix before going out or as a part of your weekly masking regime.  Fresh Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy Boosting Face Mask $62

I own 4 more of the total 8 Fresh masks, my all time favorite being the Crème Ancienne Ultimate Nourishing Honey Mask.  I've talked about it before and I'll talk about it again, if you have dry skin, you need to treat yourself to this mask.  Yeah its got a hefty price tag ($140) but after one use you'll be hooked.  Containing one of my favorite ingredients Honey, which is a humectant, bringing and sealing moisture into the skin, this mask gives ALL the moisture you could need.  Echinacea improves skin resilience, Meadowfoam Seed Oil and Seabuckhorn Oil provide moisture and omegas, and Vitamin E gives antioxidant protection.  This is my go to mask in dry winter months or after a long week of traveling.  Fresh Crème Ancienne Ultimate Nourishing Honey Mask $140

Always one with clogged pores, I've been loving the Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask lately.  I did it with my best friend a few months ago and woke up in the morning and he was doing it again he liked it so much!  The key ingredient in Fresh's oily skin line is the Umbrian Clay, high in minerals, it works to balance, purify, and clarify the skin.  I like it to help maintain clear pores and spot treat blemishes. Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask $62

The Fresh Rose Face Mask is one I love to use when traveling.  its quick, easy, no mess, and gives a nice refreshing burst of moisture to the skin.  Containing rose water to sooth, aloe and cucumber to calm and cool, and antioxidant rich green tea to brighten and protect.  Great quick fix mask, and can be used every day.  I like to throw it on after the shower while I'm ironing right before bed. Fresh Rose Face Mask $62

Lastly is the Fresh Sugar Face Polish, this was the first Fresh mask I ever tried.  It contains Brown Sugar which is scrubbed in, but it's also a humectant use to seal in moisture, so as it melts into the skin it hydrates.  Wild Strawberry's and Vitamin C are thrown in to brighten the skin and Plum and Grapeseed oil hydrate and nourish.  I rarely leave this one on for the recommended time, but will do it in the shower for a few minutes while I wash and condition my hair.  Fresh Sugar Face Polish $62

One of the things I love most about the Fresh masks is none of them take more than 5-10 minutes, so they're easy to fit into any part of your day for a quick fix with great results.  Which mask are you going to start with?

Skincare from Down Under

I'm obsessed with anything Australian, like extremely obsessed.  Kylie Minogue, for starters, is my music idol, Aussies have the best accents, hottest guys, the best coffee you'll ever have, and create some amazing skincare.  Jurlique is one of the strongest brands out of Australian.  Pioneers in natural skincare technology, Jurlique started in the 1980s, moving the Australia from Germany, due to their pure lands ideal for starting a farm.  To this day, they still grow the majority of the ingredients use din their products.  I've always been a fan and now's a great time to try some of my favorites since they're doing 30% off for their 31st birthday! Just use code "CHEERS" at checkout

Rosewater Balancing Mist $35 down to $24.50 - This is probably Jurliques most well known product.  It has the most amazing rose scent, refreshes and hydrates skin, and has antioxidant properties.  Can be used to tone after cleansing or to hydrate throughout the day.

Sun Specialist SPF40 High Protection Cream $38 down to $26.6 - I went through a tube of this over the winter and fell in love after the first application.  It has a rich texture that goes on weightless and smells nothing like sunscreen, it have very earthy herbal scents that's hella refreshing.  It has broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection and antioxidant protection.  It can be used for beach wear, but I really like it on the daily.

Skin Balancing Face Oil $50 down to $35 - I just added this to my routine about a week ago and like it so far.  Rose Hips, Avocado, and Macadamia oils plus Shea Butter make this oil deeply hydrating and and help with tone and texture.

Herbal Recovery Advanced Eye Serum $48 down to $33.6 - I've been using this for about a month now, it's a super lightweight serum that helps reduce the look of fatigue around the eyes (and let me tell you, I'm regularly fatigued).  Great for use under makeup.

Rose Hand Cream $25 down to $17.50 - Put it all over my body!!!  This rich hand cream hydrates, smells like magic, and leaves lasting softness.  Definitely one of my favorite hand creams (and I need more, perfect timing Jurlique!)  Also Available in Lavender, Jasmine, Citrus, and a limited edition Rose Hand Cream Handpicked with roses from their 2016 harvest.

Rose Love Balm $10 down to $7 - This is the perfect pocket balm.  I always need something to throw on my lips, cuticles, and hands throughout the day, but so many of those kinds of multi taskers don't come in pocket friendly sizes.  This is one of my go to's (and I'll be ordering one of these as well...)

Audacity

I recently finished my second bottle of the Odacité Wild Carrot serum and first bottle of the Green Tea-Lemongrass.  I'm always skeptical of all natural brands as so many of them have proven ineffective, especially on my Teflon tough-product resistant skin (I mean chemical peels rarely even make me peel).  Odacité (a French play on the word Audacity) was created by a cancer survivor who wanted to cut toxins out of her life but didn't want to sacrifice performance in her skincare.  This is a story I feel I've heard 100 times and have still been let down by the products.  I was so pleasantly surprised when I tried these oils. Within just a few days of use my skin glowing, radiant, and super smooth.  Here's the details

Vital Glow - Wild Carrot Serum Concentrate $55 - Just 2 ingredients, Wild Carrot oil from a small French village and non-GMO Vitamin E.  Wild Carrot is rich in Vitamins A, C, and E, they pack a strong punch to fight wrinkles and smooth out the skin.  Just mix 2-3 drops with your face cream.

Radiant Effect - Green Tea + Lemongrass Serum Concentrate $39 - 3 clean ingredients in here, Green Tea seed oil, non-GMO Vitamin E, and Lemongrass oil.  Green Tea is rich in free radical fighting antioxidants and Lemongrass is detoxifying and uplifting.  These work together to give the skin a beautiful luminosity, I was so surprised how glowy my skin got, I started to ration this oil for special occasions, but really, at $39 it's a steal.

These are the only products I've tried from the line, but methinks I need to invest in a few more! Definitely give them a try to give your current skincare routine a boost!

Perricone Sale

One of my all time favorite eye serums is on sale as well as a bunch of other Perricone amazing products!  I'm about to start my 3rd bottle of PerricneMD Acyl-Glutathione Eye Lid Serum, its been one of the only eye products I've seen quick results with.  I haven't had the serum for about 2 months and I've noticed my eyes look much more tired since Its left my routine, even after getting Botox recently.  The Acyl-Glutathione Serum had key ingredients DMAE to firm and tone (I just bought some DMAE pills to take as part of my supplement routine) and Acyl-Glutathione which helps with fine lines, creases, and skin vitality.  Consumer tests show great improvements in most all eye care concerns, including dark circles, redness, tightness & firmness, and eye lids looking smoother.  Its definitely one of my favorites, and at $70 vs the normal $120, its a must have! (Also in a set with their Firming Eye Cream I've yet to try, but only $109 vs $192)

A few other Perricone Items on sale that I love
Face Finishing Moisturizer $50 down from $75.  This moisturizer can be used day and night for healthy glowing skin.  Great for all skin types, all ages, and definitely a great start if you're looking to step up your skin care game.

Blue Plasma Cleansing Treatent $30 down from $45.  Apply to cotton pad and sweep onto the skin to gentle cleanse, exfoliate, and reveal a brighter complexion.  Removes makeup but I like to use after cleansing as an exfoliating toner.

Intensive Pore Minimizer $40 down from $60.  If large pores are your concern, this toner helps to keep them in check.  Use after cleansing to keep oily skin matte all day.