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Advice - skincare

I need some advice and opinions, as I don't just want to be "sold."

I got a gift certificate to a very luxury makeup store/salon, to be used to purchase makeup for my upcoming wedding. I cannot simply get my makeup done there, b/c the wedding is in another state, and I'd rather do it myself anyway. Here's the dilemma:

I went in yesterday, and the woman just about yelled at me as she was asking me about my skincare routine - I use Neutrogena Acne Wash to wash my face in the shower, and I use a foundation with SPF most days. I'm 23. She says that I need a cleaner, a moisturizer, and a toner to use every morning, as well as some sort of moisturizing mask to do once a week. In addition, she says I should be using an eye cream every night, and a lip exfoliator once a week, followed by a tissue repair cream. She sent me home with TONS of samples, and said to come back in a week and she'll help me to find the right makeup, free of cost (normally the consultation costs $75! I was not going to pay that!)

Anyway, what do I really need? I'm 23, and have nice skin - not too oily or dry, an occasional pimple, but no real problems. The lady at the store said that if I do this preventative regimen that she told me, my skin will stay nice as I age. I'm all for prevention, but really, what's necessary?


Tue. Aug 8, 2:21pm

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i have found that using a toner and moisturizer really maintains my facial skin well. i started using these two kinds of products in the mid-nineties (i'm 37 now) and my skin has retained its youthfulness. i use cruelty-free products w/o any alcohol-i don't know if that is a big factor. i also not used soap of any type on my face for many, many years-just wash in my daily shower with warm water. i also do not ever use foundation or any kind of "cover-up". i re-apply my facial moisturizer about 3 times a day. i get great comments all the time about my skin. i do, however wish that i included sun screen sooner in ny routine, as now i have some visible sun damage. but now, many products contain some sort of sun screen in the moisturizer. and i use a lip balm all the time.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:32 PM

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same poster...
i use a facial clay-based mask about once or twice a month.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:36 PM

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I have acne prone skin and I don't use a toner. I use oxy pads after I scrub my face and moisturize and thats it. Toner is alright but not required as I've heard.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:45 PM

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I'm 36 with normal-to-dry skin but an overall great complexion (fair Irish). I've successfully avoided getting a sunburn more than once every 3 years, and my normal 'routine' is just a creamy soap like Dove and then a not-so-fancy moisturizer like Oil of Olay or, at the moment, Roc.

I did, however, really really like the Mary Kay 3-in-1 (cleanser, mild scrub and one other function I can't remember) - I just keep forgetting to get some. I also use a random Body Shop mask once or twice a month if I feel like my skin is a little lifeless.

I can't use lipstick or most lip products because they seem to bring on a cold sore (yuck).

I bought some eye stuff from Avon but I keep forgetting to use it.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:19 PM

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At 23, you don't need all those products. Keep your skin clean and use sunscreen. An eye cream probably wouldn't hurt, as long as it's not really heavy. Sounds like your salesperson is on commission. I also wouldn't make major changes in my skincare routine right before the wedding - it could lead to major breakouts (particularly if any of the products have fragrances you're not used to, or are oil-based).

You could tell the salesperson you're not comfortable changing your skincare routine right now, but would love to try something new after the wedding, but right now you're just interested in makeup for the wedding.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:35 PM

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I am 35. I haven't used bar soap on my face since I was a child. My skin is more on the oily side, but can get dry when I tan in the sun or tanning bed or if I over apply acne products to get rid of a zit. I use a gentle cleanser and moisturize a few days a week. I usually apply it in the shower. I also regularly use a strawberry facial mask. I think I have very nice skin for my age and people always think I am younger than I am. In fact, I was recently carded in a bar! Also, I noticed that since I started using a foundation from one of those luxury makeup counters, my skin looks amazingly better -- with or without the foundation. I think the moisturizers and SPF in the foundation have been very beneficial for my skin. I have been using Estee Lauder for about 8-10 years now.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:45 PM

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Yeah, that saleswoman is full of sh!t, really.

Cleanse and moisturize (with at least 15 SPF) and you're good to go. #1 is to take care of your skin now (sunscreen) to prevent wrinkles for when you're older. Most dermatologists will tell you that Neutrogena products are just as good as La Mer anyway.

And this advice from above:
"You could tell the salesperson you're not comfortable changing your skincare routine right now, but would love to try something new after the wedding, but right now you're just interested in makeup for the wedding"
IS FANTASTIC! Great way to handle it.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:50 PM

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OP here

Thanks so much for everyone's advice!

I've been using the samples for a day now, and my skin does feel somewhat softer, but maybe greasier...?? I'll give it the full week and see if it feels/looks different to me. Really, I just want the makeup, I think. Please keep the advice coming. I go back next Monday; I'll keep you updated!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:53 PM

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cleanser vs. facial wash

Can someone tell me, what is the difference between a "cleanser" and a "facial wash"??? am i meant to use them both at the same time, or pick between the two?

Also, has anyone tried a product (washes, cleansers, moisturizers) that claims it "gradually brightens and evens skin tone"??? Does this mean they can reduce light sunspots/freckles?

As for my skincare regimen: Currently, i use a facial wash in the mornings and evenings ("clarifying facial wash" from Earth Science, or a drugstore brand Aloe facial wash). I moisturize only in the mornings, every day, using tinted SPF 30 moisturizer by Neutrogena. If i'm going out to something special, i'll add Clinique foundation (Superfit) to even out skin tone in particular areas (bridge of nose, under eyes and under brows) and/or some loose translucent powder if it's especially hot or humid, to keep my skin dry (Cover Girl). About once a week, I use a Neutrogena exfoliating wash (chemical exfoliation).

I used to use a toner in my early 20s (I'm 27 now), but never found it made a difference. I expect it's more useful if you have oily skin or visible pores. For the past few years, I only use a toner after plucking my eyebrows, to keep away bacteria (same as using astringent).

I do wish I would moisturize in the evenings too, but have never been able to get into the habit. When I do remember, I use Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizer, since I don't need an SPF moisturizer at night and this one is totally non-greasy makes skin feel softer in the morning.

As far as lips go, I use lip balms from the body shop, or lipstick from clinique, on a day to day basis, but they don't have SPF, so I should probably find a lip balm that does...

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 4:21 PM

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talk to a dermatologist about what type of skin care regimen you need-not to a salesperson! no matter how nice or knowledgeable she seems-ultimately she's there to sell something . . .and that is why "more" is better coming from her. In fact, I would not only ask a dermatologist what you need for your skin, but i would ask (especially if it's a woman derm.) her what products she uses/recommends personally.

then go get a makeup consultation by the woman at the spa, and be firm about what you "need" . . .the makeup part is the fun part, only buy from her what you are actually psyched about! keep in mind, not all makeup is created equal . . .but some are!!! kohl liner pencils-most pencil eye liners are made of the same ingredients and will have the same effect . . it's the application that is important. you don't need to spend a lot on pencil eye liner to look great! but for foundation as well as eye shadows i definitely recommend spending a little more. it's totally worth it!

good luck-and congrats on the wedding!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 11:06 PM

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OP here

Thanks!

Actually, all my dermatologist will tell me is to make sure I wear sunblock!

Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 10:49 AM

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Highly recommended

I have "The Skin Type Solution," a book by Dr. Leslie Baumann & I highly recommend it to determine the types of products to use. You do a questionairre, then get recommendations based on your results (everyone falls into a 4-letter category, based on the quiz). She also recommends specific products, based on price levels. I have sensitive, dry skin that was breaking out, getting red, etc. Since using products from the book for at least 6 months now, I rarely get a pimple & my skin hasn't reacted to anything else. Try looking at the book before you go, if possible. My guess is that you won't need any of the expensive products & could get away much cheaper!

Link

Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 11:56 AM

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I think as long as you use sunscreen everyday, you're doing most of the work to prevent aging, especially since you're 23. And the person who advised you not to mess with it right before your wedding is very smart! Experiment later! I get very easily intimidated by salespeople but just remember, it'll be a little uncomfortable to turn her down, but you'll kick yourself later if you give in to the pressure. I have super acne prone skin and people are always trying to sell me miracle cures but I can only use Proactiv. I think everyone's different, and since you have something that works for you and is affordable, you might as well stick with it.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 2:59 PM

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These things work for me-- drink a ton of water, wear a hat outside and sunscreen, and make sure to get the area between the boobs and the neck. Clean your house! You'd be amazed how your skin can react to allergens. Eating water rich foods helps as well, remember that your body is mostly water.

Thursday, August 10, 2006, 11:01 AM

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Hi there! I am a skin therapist, so hopefully my comment will hold a bit of weight, lol.
Of course the lady wants you to buy everything, but I suggest the basics if you don't want to spend too much...
1. an appropriate cleanser for your skin type (the acne wash sounds too harsh for your skin. I would suggest a more gentle gel cleanser)
2. the other absolutes are moisturizer and sunscreen. Moisturizer is essential to keep your skin hydrated, and the other ingredients in a good line are also there to benefit your skin)
3. The sunscreen is critical. Every day, without fail. The one in your moisturizer or foundation is not enough. I would suggest at the very least an SPF 15 for everyday use, but higher if you are going to be in the sun. Reapply often!
4. Toner is nice to hydrate the skin, but you can skip this.
5. A masque is nice, but again, not critical.
6. An eyecream is important, even at your age. They can be pricey, so choose wisely.
7. A good exfoliant 2x per week would be a nice addition, but when all else fails, go with a good cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen!
I hope that helps. The best prevention from aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation (those brown sun spots) is a great sunscreen applied every day, without fail.
Oh yea, wash your face every night before going to bed!


Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:05 AM

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Face wash vs. cleanser

These are in fact one in the same, just called different things for marketing purposes.
As far as products for lightening and brightening, there are ingredients that do just that, but in over the counter products (stuff you can buy at the grocery store, etc) there just isn't enough strength of these ingredients to lighten up hyperpigmentation. I strongly suggest going to see a skin care therapist who uses a line that you like, and get into a professional line, building one piece at a time.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:12 AM

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Nutrimetics

I am actually a skincare consultant for an all natural product called Avalla by Nutrimetics. All of their products are made from fruits and veggies, milk and all natural supplements. I am not trying to make a sell, just offer honest advice. I've been using the product myself for over 7 years and have just recently become a consultant. They offer makeup also. Like I said, everything is all natural so there will be no clogging of your pores or anything like that. If you have any more questions, let me know.

Link

Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:21 AM

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All natural does not mean hypoallergenic or safe for your skin. Olive oil is all-natural, but it would certainly clog your pores if you used it on your face.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:25 AM

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actually, olive oil IS very good for one's skin and is included as a main ingredient in many effective product lines. attached is a link to "kiss my face.com" and the list of their ingredients. however, i get your point about all natural maybe doesn't mean it's the best thing to use

Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:59 AM

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Well, olive oil is probably fine for some skin types, but I wouldn't put it directly on my oily face, even if it is all-natural!

Friday, August 11, 2006, 11:17 AM

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Nutrimetics

Congratulations on becoming a skincare consultant for your line! Does that mean you are a licensed esthetician in your state?

Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:00 PM

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WOW

I just offered some information about the line that I am personally associated with. It wasn't meant to offend anybody or get you guys to jump on me, I didn't mean any harm. NOR did I EVER say it was better then what you guys are using! I left the link to find more information on this actual product. It is a skin care line that uses NO CHEMICALS! I NEVER SAID GO SLAP SOME OLIVE OIL ON YOUR FACE. If you're happy with what you are doing, I'm happy for you! Didn't mean to stir up unnecessary drama here! Just offered an opinion as everybody else did.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:34 PM

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Re: Nutrimetics

No I am not by far a licensed esthetician. I am just a consultant for the products. We go to different trainings and seminars, but I am not certified. Thanks for asking.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:37 PM

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I like olive oil on my skin. Especially in the middle of winter when the air is cold and dry dry dry.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:50 PM

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i always use all natural, no added chemicals skin/body/hair care products. it's true that some products work better for me than others, but all are worth trying in place of chemically-laden, animal by-product-laden products in my opinion.
i checked out the linked website. is there a page on the site that details the ingredients used in making the products?

Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:54 PM

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DHC is a natural company that offers many olive oil products. Its not cheap, but I think its good quality...I like their products

Link

Friday, August 11, 2006, 2:37 PM

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What you said was, "Like I said, everything is all natural so there will be no clogging of your pores or anything like that. " which is misinformation - natural products can easily clog your pores. Your products may be fantastic, but don't make false claims about them.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 2:46 PM

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ooh ooh, I'm NOT the previous poster... but I totally have to vote for Nutrimetics :)

(Actually it's, Nutrimetics by Avalla- LONG story short, Nutrimetics was sold from it's creators to SaraLee- SaraLee sold it to Tupperware, however, Pam Dean,(current president of Avalla, and previous president of Nutrimetics North America while owned by SaraLee) created Avalla to purchase the North American distribution rights to Nutrimetics....)

Anyways, I'm 25, I use a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, eye cream, mud masque, moisturizing masque, and exfoliant. And I have NO wrinkles, while my best friend- a soap and water kinda girl, does. I actually got carded when I bought alcohol two days before my 25th bday- and you have to be 18 to buy where I live...

And while some natural products may clog your pores, I've never seen Nutrimetics do it. My mother has been a consultant for almost 30 years, and I've never used a product (besides perfume) on my skin that wasn't Nutrimetics- obvioulsy, I've been old enough to make my choice about that for years, and I wouldn't want anything but it on my skin.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 3:19 PM

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Thanks for your honesty! I wasn't on here trying to making any false claims. That person is quite controversial for no given reason. I'm not going to defend myself to somebody who is so sarcastic. Nobody is asking you to switch your products or anything, soo sorry if you were offended. I didn't give any misinformation, what I said stands. I am talking about this particular product, not EVERYTHING NATURAL! Read it how you need to!



Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:09 PM

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I don't need you to tell me what I said! The statement was "NOR did I EVER say it was better then what you guys are using" If you don't like it... GET OVER IT! What are going back and fourth with me about it for? You're not obligated to it?!
"It is a skin care line that uses NO CHEMICALS! I NEVER SAID GO SLAP SOME OLIVE OIL ON YOUR FACE." These were the statements. What are you getting so testy about it for??

Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:13 PM

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Good grief...someone's awfully defensive...

Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:51 PM

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You're absolutely right! I feel like I was offering innocent advice. I wasn't trying to "claim anything" or put anything else down. I feel like you're trying to smack me around with my own words and it's completely unneccessary. So you are right in saying I am defensive. My response to her post was not meant to get you all aroused and defensive about natural products.

Friday, August 11, 2006, 6:00 PM

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OP here...

Thanks everyone for all of your comments! Although I'm not sure what brands to go with yet, I think I want to find a good moisturizer with a strong SPF, and also find a cleanser that I like. I haven't decided about toner. Additionally, when I find a masque that I like, I'll buy it. I also want an eye cream, b/c my heredity says that I'll have big bags there soon enough; if I can ward them off at all, I'm all for it!

Thanks again!

Saturday, August 12, 2006, 4:36 PM

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About proactiv

I was recently given a facail by a girl who had just gone to a senimar given by a natural products company (cant remember the name, but they are associated with Aveda). She said at the seminar, there was a rep from Proativ who actually said it WILL age your skin and cause it to age FASTER. It takes layers of skin off while cleansing..............WOW. I had used it in the past (like 4 yrs ago) and it worked fine but im glad i didnt comtinue !
I am going to use this product she recc. (although its on back order, so i have to wait) but after 1 treatment from her, i felt the difference! WOOWHHOO, i LOVE facials! ;)
I just wanted to pass along what i heard! ;)

Saturday, August 12, 2006, 7:02 PM

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I never use soap of any kind on my face since I was a kid. Now at 50 I only use oil of olay moisturizure. Never wore any kind of powders etc on my face. The only makeup I ever used was eye shadow and liner. I drink lots of water a day and wear a hat when I'm out in the awful heat. I get comments all the time about how healthy I look and how great skin I have. My sister in law wears a ton of crap on her face, she is the same age as me but you would never know it. Her face looks like she has craters in it, I tell my 26 year old daughter not to put no makeup on her face cause makeup makes you look great at the time but years down the road it will look like crap.

Sunday, August 13, 2006, 11:25 AM

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eye creams + face moisturisers

Thanks to the person who cleared up my confusion about cleanser vs wash!!! I will just use them interchangeably then. I was confused because I had two products of the same brand, but your advice makes sense.

To the skin therapist who posted Fri 12:05am - great list of tips. What kind of eyecream do you recommend for those of us in our 20s? I've almost bought some on several occasions, but was told by a specialist (from Lancome) that I didn't need it at my age (27) and I'm confused as to what to buy and when to apply???? Sorry I feel like I'm asking for advice I should pay you for!!!

And re face moisturizers with spf: I have found the tinted range from Neutrogena at SPF 30 provides adequate coverage, especially since I work in a windowless office and am walking in daylight for 30 mins a day only. But maybe I'm wrong? But sunblock is too greasy to wear on my face everyday???

-powerfrau

Sunday, August 13, 2006, 12:25 PM

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clinique is fantastic-moisturizer w/ spf 25 "built-in". their lip and eye treatmentsare exceptional-although a little expensive, they last a long time-i think they are pretty much in line w/ other high quality product lines-and they are cruelty-free!!

Monday, August 14, 2006, 2:52 PM

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So what is a good choice for skin care products for those of us with acne prone skin? The majority of products I've tried break me out badly, but I feel like I am aging myself prematurely (I'm 30) using acne medications.

Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:04 PM

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here's a link that may be helpful for those w/ acne-prone skin...

Link

Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:07 PM

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aveda products are wonderful! here is a link to their acne products.

Link

Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:30 PM

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OP here

For everyone who thought the sales woman was trying to rip me off (myself included) - well... I went back last night, and she did my makeup, and had me help, to figure out what colors and styles I liked. Then she took all of this time to do makeup on a piece of paper with a face drawn on it, and write down each product that she used on each part, etc. Then she gave me the piece of paper and sent me on my way. No charge. And not a question of when I was coming back, and she ddn't even ask if I wanted to buy anything today! She just told me to go home and think about it, and even suggested getting some of the items at a drugstore!

I think she's very helpful, but as a business-minded person, I'm totally confused!

Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 10:47 AM

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well, if you do go back to her to purchase make-up, think about tipping her for her time & help.
(maybe she's a peertrainer member and read this thread, lol !!)

Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 10:57 AM

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She may also have understood that it's a large expense to switch over to an entirely new product line all at one time. By suggesting that you get some of the items at a drugstore, she probably hopes that you'll get at least a few of the items from her and then come back for more as things run out.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 9:21 PM

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I am 37 and look about 22, people are usually shocked when I tell them my age, I still get carded. I think most of it comes from good genes but I will tell you what my routine is. Since I was about 30 I have washed my face every night. First I use DHC product called Deep Cleansing Oil, it is the most awesome product, it washes away makeup, dirt and leaves your face baby smooth. Then I use their olive oil soap. After I dry I use Philosophy's Hope in a Jar, I love this moisturizer. Once a week I do Phyilosophy's Microdelivery Peel System. Since using this for 2 years now everyone tells me how great my skin looks. I know I sound like an infomercial but this is a great system and I love how my face feels and looks since using it. I DO NOT using toners, I notice they always dry out my face and I don't like the way my skin feels after. I never rub at my eyes. And I always sleep on satin pillow caes, why? Because satin doesn't make your skin crease like cotton, even fine high thread count cotton. My skin is smooth and flawless. Since using these 2 products I no longer have little white bumps on my face like I used to get and I kid you not people always want to touch my face. I don't use much makeup but I definitely use a spf 50 on my face followed by a light coverup and loose powder and bronzer.

The lady who attacked you at the place, don't go back to her. She soounds like she's trying to get you to buy expensive products. But if you take care of your skin and find a few good products that make your skin feel good that's all that matters. DHC products aren't sold in stores but if you wear makeup I highly recommend the cleansing oil. I love it so much I buy it as gifts for people and once they try it they are hooked. You can find it online and as far as Phyilosophy products go they are everywhere but sometimes they have better deals on line.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006, 6:08 AM

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I wouldn't say that the woman attacked me - she's given me a couple hours of her time at this point, and I haven't spent a dollar!

Last night, I went to the drugstore, and bought a cleanser, toner, and SPF 15 moisturizer, all from Neutrogena. I also bought a new set of makeup brushes, and some loose powder (which I'd never had before), and some new concealer.

I plan to go back to the woman for some eye cream, and also some eye shadow and base and eyeliner that she used on me that I loved, and also the foundation that she used b/c it matched my skin really well. That should use up my gift certificate, plus some, but not totally break the bank!

Wednesday, August 16, 2006, 3:24 PM

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She may have figured out by your initial reaction that the "hard sell" wasn't working. I don't respond well to a hard sell, either (nothing will make me walk away faster), but I do like good customer service, and will be a repeat customer if a sales rep treats me respectfully.

Thursday, August 17, 2006, 12:49 PM

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Olive Oil might be worth a try!

Link

Sunday, October 08, 2006, 10:01 AM

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skincare

Eat lots of fruits & vegetables. Take Fiber. Clean your face every morning & night. Scrub with baking soda everyday. Use a mask designed for acne-prone skin 2times a week. Exercise everyday. Drink Water. No sweets and you will be fine. Also go get facials.

Sunday, October 22, 2006, 4:18 PM

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From the Skin Therapist

Wow, I am always surprised at how passionate we can all be, but it is passion that makes for such a wonderful world.

Sunscreen: What is the time it takes for your skin to show a bit of redness if you were to go outside without any sunscreen? SPF 30 in a tinted moisturizer could be ok if you don't burn quickly. You mentioned that you walk in the daylight for t 30 minutes during the day. If you burn in 1 minute's time without any sunscreen, then it would not be enough. But if you take longer to develop redness, then you would have to take that into consideration. What you could do that would really benefit your skin (and prevent further aging) would be to put a sunscreen on under your tinted moisturizer.
I would suggest a sunscreen from whatever line you get your skincare products from. Some sunscreens can be greasy....look for ones that are designed for skin prone to breakouts. They would have the same sunscreen ingredients, but the rest of the formulation would be strong in noncomedogenic ingredients (doesn't cause comedones, a.k.a pimples).

Ok, so as far as eye cream goes: everyone could use it. I am not sure where you live, or what your lifestyle is like (weather, smog,air conditioning, altitude changes,stress,our diet, etc. all take a toll on your skin), but we could all use some help in protecting this delicate area. I would recommend trying out the eye cream of whatever product line you use now. You should be able to ask for some samples to try without any problems. As far as when to apply, ask the consultant. There are eyecreams with spf in them, and in that case you would use it during the day. If it doesn't contain spf, then chances are that it is a nighttime use. A few things to remember:

1. We all tend to use WAY too much product. What may feel like a really greasy eye cream could just be too much product.
2. Ask the skin therapist (or sales girl) the difference in the products. Most skin care lines have different products for different skin types. Even though that super creamy mask smells incredible and feels great on your hand, it would be a nightmare on more oily skin that is prone to breakouts.
3. Find a line you like and stick with it. Products within a company line are designed to work best with the other products they offer. We love to pick and choose a cleanser from here, a mask from there, and exfoliation from the other. Really, each step is designed to work with the next.
4. As far as natural products go, everything is natural. Plant, animal, and mineral. Everything from olive oil extract to tallow to mineral oil, all natural. Marketing is a wonderful thing, except when you don't understand it.
5. Sunscreen is the best way to ward off aging and sun damage. Period.
6. What you do to your face, also do to your neck and chest. Beautiful skin should not stop at the chin.
7. As a basic routine: cleanse (2xs), exfoliate, moisturize, and sunscreen.
A more in-depth routine: Cleanse(2x), exfoliate, tone, mask, moisturize, eyecream, and sunscreen.

I hope that helps a bit. Please don't hesitate to ask about skin care. Everyone has skin and should know how best to take care of it.
Best of luck!
Nicole
(Time2lose)

Monday, October 23, 2006, 1:43 AM

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Oh yeah...

One last thing. I know that I have been guilty in the past of trying every product under the sun, which probably fed my desire to become a skin therapist. We often times get jaded about products that our sisters, moms, best friends, store sales people SWEAR is the best ever. We go out, plunk down a nice chunk of hard earned money, and wait for the miracle. Then the disappointment begins.
I wouldn't say that the product is bunk, because it worked wonders for whoever recommed it to you. Geez, just look at the rest of the board. We all have our favorites, and are ready to defend it to the death. The problem is that we don't have cookie-cutter skin. We are all different, with different challenges. I'm more on the oily side, but my skin is also dehydrated. I am prone to hyperpigmentation, but would not be a good candidate for some of the laser procedures out there.
Age definitely plays a factor in our skin, as does our diet, our stress levels, air conditioning, living on the beach or in the mountains, etc. There are so many variables to look at, and many different reasons why one product is a miracle in a jar for one person, and a zit in a bottle for another. Definitely take suggestions of lines that others like and check them out.
There are so many wonderful product lines, so find one that works for you. I would definitely suggest a professional treatment to learn more about your skin. You don't have to buy the line they are pushing, but take notes on what is said about your skin. Oh yeah, don't forget the sunscreen....
Take care!
Nicole
Time2lose

Monday, October 23, 2006, 1:59 AM

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Water. You need water to get to your skin and remove impurities. Remember that your organs get first dips on water in your body, so when you are dehydrated, your skin suffers first.

Sunday, October 29, 2006, 9:02 AM

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I'm 50 and people are amazed at how great my skin looks. That wasn't always the case. As a kid growing up in Miami, I was an avid sun worshipper. As a result, I had skin caner (basal cell carcinoma) at 29. I started using a Retin_A product in ,my early 30's as a preventative. It is an off-label use, but dermatologists have suggested it to prevent a recurrance, which I have not had. My skin is smooth and wrinkle free.

In my 40's I started using a mosturizer with an SPF. I really should have started daily SPF sooner but it wasn't preached like it is now.

In additiion, I get glycolic peels (40%) about 5-6 times a year. This, in addition to the Retin-A product, helps in cellular turnover and collagen formilng.

This year I have changed my moisturizer to one with SPF and firming ability as my skin is starting to show so loss of elasticity.

As other posters have noted, al the things yo normally hear are also important; lots of water and sleep. eat well, don't smoke (that's a big one), manage s,tress, exercise, Sun exposure is important for women as a source of vitamin D but do so responsibly.

Sunday, October 29, 2006, 10:36 AM

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This is a miracle system

I have acne prone skin and the only thing that I have found that actually keeps my face looking clear and healthy is Proactiv Solutions. I have been on every acne medication in the world and this truely does work. I don't get breakouts and my skin is healthy. It is a 3 step system:

1) Renewing Cleanser gently exfoliates dead skin
cells allowing benzoyl peroxide to penetrate pores.

2) Revitalizing Toner soothes and softens skin while
removing pore-clogging impurities.

3) Repairing Lotion hydrates skin while penetrating
deep to stop acne-causing bacteria at the source.

I think that they still have the bonus of when you buy the system, you get a refining mask cream too. You have to do it religiously every day, but you will NOT regret it. I know this probably is going to sound like an ad but I NEED to TELL people about this miracle system. I have told other friends of mine about this stuff and their acne has also cleared up and their skin looks 100% better.

There is a 60day satisfaction guarantee. Which means that you can use it for at least a month and if you are not satisfied, send it back and you will get your money back.

PLEASE GET THIS PRODUCT!!!!!!!

Good luck!



Monday, October 30, 2006, 12:46 PM

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naturally derived skincare & anti-aging

I just came across this posting and I felt compelled to contribute. I have been a consultant and leader with Avalla, the exclusive North American distributor for Nutrimetics naturally-derived skincare, cosmetics and wellness products, for 8 years. Nutrimetics is the world's first naturally-derived skincare line and is the leading skincare range in Australia and New Zealand. The products have been impressing women and delivering results for nearly 50 years.

Prior to using Nutrimetics, I rarely washed my face with a Neutrogena Sensitive Skin bar soap, and I never moisturized for fear of breaking out from greasy feeling moisturizers. I now know that most moisturizers, even those sold in department stores, contain mineral oil and other petroleum-derived ingredients. I wouldn't eat those ingredients and I won't apply them to my skin, only to be absorbed into my bloodstream to clog my pores. The reason that the nicotine patch works is that those chemicals are absorbed into the bloodstream, so I choose to use the safest ingredients possible. I had decent skin, but I had the typical flakiness, occasional blemish, etc.

Within days of using Nutrimetics, I noticed a difference. I loved it enough to use it faithfully. I'm 27 now and I get compliments on my skin on a daily basis. I have learned that effective skin care begins with Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing morning and night. The right products will not strip, dehydrate skin or clog pores. Here's why they are important:

Cleanser: removes all dirt, oil, pollution, grime, sweat, makeup from the skin. Even if you live on a farm, pesticides and free radicals in the air are attacking the skin. In the am, you are cleansing away sweat, dog or husband drool, dirt, etc.

Toner: IMPORTANT--always avoid alcohol-based anything, which many toners contain, even the "good" stuff or "natural" stuff. Toner is important because wetting or washing the skin disrupts your skin's natural "acid mantle", an invisible layer of protection from bacteria and germs. Your skin is naturally a pH of 5.5, slightly acidic. Water neutralizes it and cleanser actually makes your skin more alkaline. Toner, like our Skin Fresh (citrus-based) toner, will restore the skin's natural pH balance, so that skin is calm, cool, protected and ready for moisture. Plus you always get dirt on the cotton pad, so you know it's like that final rinse cycle and you feel refreshed.

Moisturizer: While many moisturizers are composed mainly of petrochemicals and mineral oil (think: recycled car oil bleached and sold to cosmetic companies), you should opt for a moisturizer that is made up of similar ingredients as your body--water and protein. My moisturizers contain precious apricot kernel oil, shea butter, soybean protein, Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, anti-oxidants to prevent free radical damage from the environment. My moisturizers nourish the skin. Think about the difference between 100% juice versus 10% juice. We eliminate the cheap fillers that do nothing for the skin. These do not cause breakouts and they absorb quickly. My skin is supple, clear and smooth. Traditional moisturizers formed a barrier against moisture loss by coating skin like cellophane. Ours actually is like a fruit smoothie for the skin.

I definitely recommend an eye creme, morning and night. Your eyes don't produce any natural oil after the age of 12 or so, and it's important to hydrate this delicate skin--as thin as an eggshell. Eye cremes tend to seem expensive for a small tube, but remember you are using a small speck so that tube lasts me about 6 months. I don't have specific concerns like sagging or dark circles, so I opt for a daily eye hydrator featuring avocado oil and apricot kernel oil.

Weekly, I recommend a gentle scrub to polish away dead skin which will prevent blackheads, flakiness and breakouts. Ours contains no shells or plastic or glass, only ground almond meal, oatmeal and seaweed. I also like either a Hydrating Masque for dry skin types, or a Mineral Masque featuring Kaolin Clay to absorb excess oils and impurities, making pores seem smaller.

These are the essentials. I've used them since I was 19 and my skin is incredible. It feels good and delivers results therefore I am faithful with it. Read your ingredients, if the good stuff is not at the very top of the list, you are paying for fillers. Its highway robbery. Check out the FDA website for info about what's safe and what's not necessarily safe for your skin.

No, I am not an aesthetician. However, I have been studying independently for 8 years and have prepared 3 years of college reports and speeches about this topic. I have won the respect of dermatologists and aestheticians alike. I have clients who have written testimonials about our products after using lines such as Perricone and Philosophy, Clinique, Lancome, etc. For more info, visit my website. Otherwise, I hope that this information could be somewhat helpful to someone out there.

Blessings~
Emilie

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Friday, March 09, 2007, 11:29 PM

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