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Tag Archives: Kate Somerville
04.23.2015
Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Contouring Eye Serum
04.14.2015
Kate Somerville Nourish Hydrating Firming Mist
08.20.2014
Kate Somerville RetAsphere 2-in-1 Retinol Night Cream
I’ve always been into anti-aging but, last year, when I hit 30, I REALLLLY got into anti-aging. For serious.
09.24.2013
you need this: Kate Somerville D-Scar Diminishing Serum
I don’t really consider myself to be too much of a clutz, but THIS IS AN INSTAGRAM photo after my 30th birthday. Yep. I totally stepped out of the cab the wrong way and went down HARD on the sidewalk. Not only was it scary, but I got into my apartment, looked down and said “oh my god…I just skinned my knee like a four-year-old.” Sure, it healed up after a few days but I was left with a dark scar that I still have, six months later. Awesome. I started doing some research into good scar diminishing serums and creams and decided to test out Kate Somerville D-Scar Diminishing Serum. Obviously, I love all things Kate Somerville, so I was pretty sure I’d be happy with the results of D-Scar and yes, I really am. They actually did an independent clinical study that had AMAZING results:
In 4 weeks:
- 100% of users had a significantly improved scar texture and smoothness
- 92% of users had decreased scar thickness
Sold. Basically the product uses the brand’s DS-7™, a microencapsulated Peptide essential to the skin renewal process. It’s formula encourages more normalized, smoother, softer skin. This unique “messenger” Peptide delivers a large amount of essential renewal information to cells. I’ve been using the product for about 4 weeks now, as per the clinical study, and I’ve seen REALLY good results. I still have a way to go, but things are looking good.
07.30.2013
Reader Question: do I really need toner?
Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner| Biore Blemish Treating Astringent | Kate Somerville Clarifying Treatment Toner | Mario Badescu Special Cucumber Lotion | Boscia Balancing Facial Tonic
Question:
Hey Jamie!
I have a question…what is the purpose of toner? Is it necessary? AND, after I take off my makeup (using Queen of the Quarter Life Crisis-approved Neutrogena makeup removing wipes) and wash my face, when I put the toner on should there be dirt or some kind of grey to brown on the cotton ball or does that mean that my face wash isn’t working well enough?
xo,
“E”
Answer:
Hey “E”!
That’s a great (and really common) question. My first experience with toner was when I did PR for Sea Breeze back in the day…that stuff was hard core, let me tell you, but it had a cult-like following. Here’s the story: toners are greatly misunderstood.
What are they? Toners are traditionally used to balance the skin’s pH and remove anything that your cleanser missed (hence why you see color on your cotton ball after you use it). Newer toners actually can be really hydrating and have added benefits with good-for-you ingredients, depending on the product.
Should I use one? Since there are so many different kinds, you just have to do some research to see which toner is best for your skin (my favorites are above). Some contain alcohol, which removes excess oil and helps prevent breakouts but can also dry out skin. However, most derms say that anyone with eczema or rosacea (ahem, me!) should avoid them due to sensitivity.
- If you have oily skin, look for toners with salicylic acid, sulfur, or tea tree oil
- If you have dry skin, grab ones with panthenol, hyaluronic acid, aloe, and glycerin
Good luck!
Jamie
07.09.2013
Reader Question: How do I simplify my skincare regimen?
One of the most common reader questions that I get is on the topic of simplifying your skincare regimen. What do you REALLY need to use? How often? In what order? When? These are all completely valid questions, especially given the fact that beauty brands come out with dozens of new products every year. And, here’s a secret, a lot of the “new” products are really just the same formula with a new name and new product packaging! It’s true. So here, I break down exactly what you need: a simple skincare regimen with the fewest products possible. Of course, you can always add treatments (based on your specific concerns) into your regimen but this list is the bare necessities, and a few product recommendations. I’ve included high-end brands and drugstore brands, so you can decide where you want to splurge.
MORNING (in order of use):
- Cleanse: If you have dry/sensitive skin you don’t necessarily HAVE to wash your face in the morning, but it is an option. I usually just splash some water on my face/take off last night’s eyeliner before applying my moisturizer since I have sensitive skin and don’t like to over-cleanse. Products I like:
- Moisturize/Treat: Here’s the thing, you don’t have to use a product that actually says “moisturizer” on it. In fact, I recommend that you use something that has other benefits, aside from just moisturizing your skin. For example, plenty of serums and treatment lotions contain antioxidants, peptides, hyaluronic acid, etc. that gives you an extra boost. Products I like:
- Protect: It’s ideal that your moisturizer/treatment (and even makeup!) will have some SPF in it, but they usually only have a small amount, such as SPF 15, which is NOT enough. If your moisturizer doesn’t have at least SPF 30, you should use a broad-spectrum, sunscreen that is at least SPF 30. Products I like:
EVENING (in order of use):
- Cleanse: Washing my face at night is probably one of the best feelings. It’s important to get off all your makeup and grime from the day so, even when you’re tired or drunk, try not to skip this step! Oh, and you can use the same cleanser that you use in the morning (if you do wash in the morning) OR you can use makeup removing/cleansing cloths, when you’re too tired for the full routine. Cleansing wipes I like:
- Exfoliate: Depending on how sensitive your skin is, you shouldn’t do this EVERY night- try it out and see how your skin reacts. Personally, I exfoliate once or twice a week. The point is to basically get rid of excess and dead skin cells and unclog pores. Make sure to use a product that contains alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which is one of the best ingredients to help reveal your fresh skin. Products I like:
- Moisturize/Treat: Here’s where it gets a little tricky. You CAN use your morning moisturizer/treatment OR you can use a product that’s specifically designed for night time, your choice. Make sure to also add in a serum or lotion that contains Retinol, which is a key ingredient that will keep your skin looking young, AND an eye cream. Products I like:
- RoC Retinol Correxion Sensitive Night Cream; Clinique Repairwear Intensive Night Cream
- Retinol products: the RoC product above is a great night cream with Retinol (!) OR you can use Murad Time Release Retinol Concentrate for Deep Wrinkles or Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM two to three times a week
- Eye creams: Yes to Blueberries Eye Firming Treatment; LANCOME Renergie Eye Multiple Action