Tag: toner

Biologique Recherche P50

I finally bit the bullet and ordered the legendary Biologique Recherche P50 last week. I didn’t even know what I was getting myself into, but when skin mavens like Emily Weiss rave, I pay attention. It was Jenna Lyons’ morning routine that put me over the edge.

One thing that had held me back before, was the difficulty in ordering the French brand from here in the States. But Rescue Spa was super easy and I could complete my purchase using Amazon (prime baby!).

There are actually several versions of the P50 (one for dryer skin, one for hyper-pigmentation, etc…). I opted for the original but not the P50 1970 which is banned in Europe. I figure if it isn’t available there, it has no business on my skin. But to each their own.

The serum/toner is described as a facial in a bottle, erasing fine lines, shrinking pores and balancing skin. Exfoliating ingredients like lactic acid and salicylic acid lighten dark spots and control oil production. Some experience a little tingling at first – I sure did. But that has dissipated every time I have used it since. I don’t experience any redness but I have heard some report a sort of healthy flush. I have to say I am already hooked – the intrigue and slightly odd smell have me feeling like I am part of a secret club. I will report back after a couple weeks!

Bioderma’s Micellar Water H20

Micellar Water, once a hot new beauty product here in the States, is now almost ubiquitous with loads of brands having launched their own versions. But the original is still my favorite. The French Bioderma’s Micellar Water is such a classic. And, in my book, cannot be improved upon. One bottle is sold every two seconds around the world. Models, artists and celebrities swear about it.

I use it morning and night. In the AM, it plays more of a role of a toner. At night, I use it to remove makeup and as a second step of cleansing. I love the purity, lack of scent and the fact that it doesn’t irritate my skin. The formula works to restore balance and pH level.

Available at Beautylish and Amazon.

Kleenex Cotton Soft Pads

I really try to be very low maintainance and am generally great with rolling with the punches. But every once in a while I try something that sets the bar really high and there is just no going back. That’s kind of how I feel about regular ole cotton pads now that I have experienced the Kleenex Cotton Soft Pads.

These pads are made of a micro-fine fabric making them ultra-soft. There is far less lint then any other ball or pad I have tried. And the unique texture leaves absolutely nothing behind. They are about twice the size of cotton rounds, but the shape of a curved rectangle. It is almost decadent how big they are, making them perfect for washing or removing nail polish. I use them for toner and the size is so large, I can take two passes with one pad.

If you want to up your cotton game, check out the Kleenex Soft Pads at www.kleenex.com/facialcleansing for $4.99 for an 85-pack.

Paula’s Choice ‘Skin Perfecting’ 1% BHA Lotion Exfoliant

My skin woes have been a little more intense this year. I used to singularly worry about pigmentation, but lately I have developed rosacea and some clogged pores on my forehead – not acne per se, but definitely less than clear skin. I read a round-up of best beauty items, and included this toner/exfoliant. I just had to give it a whirl – sounded like it was just the ticket for my issues.

And it really was! I use this in the AM after washing my face (my rosacea treatment is required at night). Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion Exfoliant has a lightweight lotion texture and is non-irritating. It works to exfoliate skin surface and inside the pores. BHA (beta hydroxy acid) increases collagen production and drastically smoothes the surface of the skin. It also has antibacterial properties that attack blemish-causing bacteria.

I apply on a cotton pad and then wait for a bit to apply a nourishing SPF (this is my current favorite). Made in the USA. Fragrance-free; colorant-free. Available at Nordstrom.

Kiehl’s Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion

As a teen, I savored the skin care step of Sea Breeze. There was something about that cool, ultra-clean feeling, especially on my younger, oilier skin. I thought I had outgrown that feeling (or my dry skin certainly had) until I tried Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion.

This iconic product has been around since 1964 – that certainly qualifies for “tried and true”. I picked it up to conquer some breakouts on my cheek. My dermatologist said that the clogged pores were some purging related to my new Retin-A kick.

The Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion was the perfect tonic to loosen up those pores and decongest. After a couple weeks use, my skin in clear. And I am hooked on the refreshing clean from a toner. While my skin is dry, I have no tightness or ill-effects from using this. But those with sensitive or ultra-dry skin might tread lightly.

PS – Guys, the word is that men love it as an after-shave treatment.

Available at Kiehl’s and Nordstrom.

boscia Sake Treatment Water to Hydrate and Brighten

I admit that at first blush this looks like a very very expensive toner. But after using boscia Sake Treatment Water to Hydrate and Brighten for a couple weeks, I see the light. This treatment is much more than a toner. The water actually works to improve and empower other skincare products.

After washing my face, I pump once or twice into my hands and press onto my skin. Instantly, I can feel a hydration and detect a brighter complexion. The vitamins and minerals delivered with sake work to improve tone and texture. The scent is subtly green while the formula is ultra-light.

Vitamin B3 primes skin while Sodium Hyaluronate adds hydration. Jojoba Leaf helps to prevent free radical damage while nourishing the skin. Free of preservatives, artificial fragrance, gluten, color, and ethanol alcohol. Available at Sephora.

Belle Belle Beauty