I really wish I could embrace aging in a more graceful manner, but it’s just not working for me. In fact, I feel like I’m in a constant uphill battle with the process. I see a little brown spot or tiny red vein…and I’ll be honest…I freak out! My usual tactic is to Google the issue at hand in search of a miracle cure. Obviously, there isn’t one (regardless of what it says on the side of the box), but I have discovered a few products that I believe do help in the war against aging.
Skincare:
- I have a very strict skincare routine. I use Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash (2-in-1 cleanser and exfoliator) twice per day.
- I ALWAYS remove my makeup EVERY night. I have tried many different brands, but actually found Neutrogena Make-Up Remover to work the best.
- I also moisturize every night with CeraVe, a basic drug store moisturizer recommended by two different dermatologists (one on the East Coast and another one right here in Manhattan Beach).
- SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN. I start with a moisturizer with 30 SPF every day. If I’m going to be in the sun for more than 15 minutes, I use Aveeno 100 SPF. I also use Neutrogena Brightening Eye Perfector (SPF 25) under my eyes. So basically, the skin around my eyes gets 65-140 SPF every day. A make-up artist once told me to ONLY use your ring fingers to apply any type of lotion, concealer, or cream around your eyes. The skin is extremely delicate and using your pointer finger puts too much pressure on your beautiful peepers.
- I would love to say that after three babies, I don’t have a stretch mark on me, but seriously…that would be ridiculous. I applaud you lucky girls who got away without them….cheers to great genes and cocoa butter! However, for those of us who have a few….I recommend StriVectin SD. I really believe in this product and wish I had taken some before and after pics. It works like every other product though…you actually have to USE IT CONSISTENTLY twice a day.
Make -Up:
EYES:
- Lancôme ‘Rénergie Eye’ Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Eye Crème. My mom swears by this product. She has been using it for 20 years and she looks at least a decade younger than she really is!
- I love MAC Cosmetics! I use all of their shadows, liquid eye liner, and mascara. Their custom eye shadow palette rocks! You get to choose your favorite colors and drop them in. I also love MAC’s recycle program. Save six empty containers and bring them back to the store for a free MAC Lipstick (including lip gloss)! They reuse the plastic from the make-up containers to manufacture store display cabinets (see your local store for more details).
www.maccosmetics.com
FACE:
- I am currently using Laura Mercier Mineral Powder (15 SPF). I had been a loyal Bare Minerals user, but my dermatologist recommended trying a different line. I’m also hooked on Laura Mercier‘s Second Skin Cheek Color, Spiced Cider.
- I have also found it’s extremely important to clean your brushes. A make-up artist recently suggested that I clean them once a week with a mild dish washing detergent. I’m not quite getting a once-a-week cleaning in….not sure who actually has time for that! FYI: Don’t soak them in hot water….the glue melts, even on the best brush handles!
LIPS:
- There is something about the texture of lipstick that I just can’t stand. I actually only wear lip gloss. The best lip gloss I’ve come across is by MAC Cosmetics. My favorite colors are Oh Baby, C-Thru, Shock-o-late, and Viva Glam.
- Lancome, Sephora brand, and Neutrogena also have some great glosses.
- For those of you who like a little tingle…Victoria Secret Very Voluptuous® lip plumper is absolutely fabulous!
There you have it…my go-to beauty products! If you have a great product that you’d like to share with our readers, please leave a comment and tell us all about it.
These tips are great, Melissa. I find that the aging process is definitely creeping up on me too. This year, it's the discovery of more gray hairs on my head. Disaster! Do you have tips for that in terms of coloring?
I like your make-up options and swear by Laura Mercier too. Another good tip is all Nivea products including their eye make-up remover, astringent and face wash. Oh and I use their bodywash too – it's natural and wonderful!