So…what is the Monday Poll?
Excellent question! It isn’t, contrary to its name, an actual poll, like with little clicky buttons. It’s just a list of five more or less random questions I’ve been posting on this blog every Monday morning for the past quadrillion years (since 2007). I love reading your answers, and it helps me get my week off to a good start. ?
The Skin Care Edition!
1. What’s your skin type?
Combo. Dry on my cheeks and around my mouth, and oily on my nose and forehead. Acne prone errrrrrrywhere (UGH), but especially around my mouth and chin, and on my forehead.
2. Your latest skin care love?
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream. It’s moisturizing, layers beautifully on top of other products and underneath makeup. SO GOOD!
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
A bottle of Biologique Recherche P50 1970 Toner. I used it a while back, and when I look at pics of my skin from that time, I think it was more even-toned. Anywho, I have a pigmentation blob on my cheek that I think is getting darker, so I’m saving up for a big ol’ bottle.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
Hmm… Honestly, when I was a kid! Sh*t hit the fan when I hit 10, and I started breaking out.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Wow, I just did the math, and I realized that I’ve been using Kate Somerville Anti-Bac Clearing Lotion for nearly seven years!
6. What’s your skin tone?
I’m a medium tan, and my undertones lean warm, although they’re *not* overly warm, if that makes any sense. I’m definitely not neutral or cool, but I’ve noticed in some instances warm shades look jarring and cooler tones look better. I think it also depends on what season it is. During the fall and winter my skin seems to be less warm.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
When my skin starts acting fussy it’s usually one, or a combo, of the following: lack of sleep, not drinking enough water, or stress. Also, I’ve definitely noticed that there’s a sweet spot with the Kate Somerville Anti Bac. If I use anything less than two pumps, my skin breaks out.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Obvs, lots of sleep and drinking enough water, lower stress levels, and benzoyl peroxide, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve also noticed that what I eat plays a big role, too. When I eat more vegetables and unprocessed foods, I swear my pores look less intense, my overall skin texture is smoother, and it it just seems overall more glowy and healthy. I do try to eat as much healthy stuff as I can, but ya know…I’m not crazy strict about it or anything. Sometimes you just really gotta have a chocolate chip cookie!
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Soooo, I currently don’t do fillers or anything (as evidenced by my deepening smile lines!), but I haven’t ruled it out for the future. If someone offered the future version of me a way to do filler that wasn’t overly obvious, I *might* give it a go.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. Here are the questions to copy/paste with your answers in a comment. Talk to ya soon.
1. What’s your skin type?
2. Your latest skin care love?
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
6. What’s your skin tone?
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
P.P.S. Hope you’re having a nice day so far. ?
Rachel Runyan says
1. What’s your skin type? Oily. So, so oily.
2. Your latest skin care love? Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Serum. It keeps my dehydrated nose from peeling, and helped get my menopausal skin back to normal. It was really an ever-changing mess during the last few years of perimenopause.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? Nothing at the moment.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Prior to turning 13. Puberty did me wrong.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Paula’s choice. I switched to them a few years ago.
6. What’s your skin tone? Pale with neutral undertones
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Stress, hormones, and too much caffeiene
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Keeping up with my skincare routine, any product with coconut water in it, Vitamin C serum, drinking enough water.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? I’d wait about 5 years, but a minor eyelift. I don’t have bagginess underneath my eyes, but my hoods are starting to get worse.
Karen says
Puberty was so rude, LOL! Hormonal changes in general have been so, so rude. My last big one was in my 30s, and the chin acne was ROUGH.
Maxine says
1. What’s your skin type?
Normal with weather induced drier cheeks in the winter or an oilier t-zone in the summer
2. Your latest skin care love?
Lotion P50 PIGM 400
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
A new bottle of Amore Pacifica’s Vintage Extract Essence, I love it, but it’s $145 for 4oz.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
birth to 35, having kids definitely changed my skin, but I have zero regrets.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Sunscreens in general, been using them since I was a teen.
6. What’s your skin tone?
Medium-olive in the summer, light-olive in the winter
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Alcohol, too much sugar, and trying to many products a once
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
a healthy mental state & diet with generous sunscreen & a good moisturizer
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? Under-eye fillers or lazers to remove stubborn dark spots
Karen says
Maxine, I was thinking of trying Lotion P50 PIGM 400. Have you ever used the P50 1970? I’m debating between the two.
Maxine says
Yes, the P50 1970 was the first one I used & the one where I saw the biggest difference in the overall appearance of my skin. The 400 works well with Skinceutical’s Hyperpigmentation serum at subtly fading old & deep dark spots. However, I’ll probably go back to the 1970 after this bottle. The reduction of hyperpigmentation from the P40o doesn’t out weigh the overall improved appearance with using the 1970. I hope you & your family are doing well, take care.
Karen says
Thanks, Maxine. This really helps! It’s always so tempting to try something new, but I think I’ll end up with the P50 1970 since I know it works.
Kim says
Hello!!! I hope things are going well in sunny CA with you and the fam! <3
1. What’s your skin type? Combo with an oily t zone and dry cheeks.
2. Your latest skin care love? I've been on a retinol kick for about a year. I dropped back to the .5% but 1% just dried me out and made me crepey.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? To stop having to wear a mask all day. My face looks like a constellation with pimples where my mask touches my face and a rash where it rubs under my chin. Brutal on my skin!
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Definitely, like you, when I was under 11.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Probably CeraVe moisturizer.
6. What’s your skin tone? Just shy of medium; I always thought I was ghostly white but the best foundations for me have been medium-light.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Besides the mask? HAHA! I'm a burner and sun isn't my friend. I also find that I have to wash/moisturize before and after working out or it'll be trouble.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Usually exfoliating as long as I'm not too dry from the sun or retinol.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? Blepharoplasty, hands down. I would love to have my droopy lids lifted. I know it's not expensive compared to a lot of cosmetic surgery but it's still spendy. If I knew I was going to get a great result, I think I'd whip out the checkbook, though!
Karen says
I got the rash under my chin, too, girl! I feel you.
JENNIFER R OSBORN says
1. What’s your skin type? You’ll have to ask my skin. Seriously though, dry, aging, an occasional break out.
2. Your latest skin care love? Philosophy Hope in a Jar moisturizer. Been using it since my late 20’s–that’s over 20 years now. It works and I love the smell.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? I’ve been out of Kate Somerville’s Exolikate for a while now. I need to get another tube. Adore it.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? When I was little.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Hope in a Jar. 22 or 23 years is a hella long time to use the same moisturizer.
6. What’s your skin tone? Pale face white chick with a lot of ruddiness.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Not drinking enough water or a stretch of eating too much crap.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Really an apple a day and a big green salad a day and I’m at optimal skin appearance–along with plenty of water of course. And cleansing and moisturizing before bed.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? No skin care procedures for me no matter who is paying!
Karen says
I gotta say the salads make a difference. I’ve been craving them lately and definitely notice a difference when I’m getting enough veg in my system!
Suzanne C says
1. What’s your skin type?
Sensitive! Not bad on either the oily or dry side, but so sensitive.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner. (Fun fact: cucumbers have the same PH as the skin on your face.) This toner is soothing, not drying or burning.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
I don’t really have anything. I’ve been taking an extremely low-maintenance approach towards skincare lately and it’s been paying off nicely.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
Like you said, when I was a kid. After hormones hit, forget it.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
All things First Aid Beauty.
6. What’s your skin tone?
The many shades of Porcelain, lol. ?
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Stress, hormonal imbalances, and too-harsh skincare products.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Hydration and a consistent skincare regimen.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
I don’t really know what’s out there. Maybe something to reduce the redness that has cropped up on my cheeks and won’t go away. Or I might consider treatment for dark spots down the road; that’s a problem my mom has.
Karen says
So much YESSSSS to First Aid Beauty. I just started using the Sleeping Cream; have you tried it? It’s very lush.
Suzanne C says
I haven’t tried it yet. I’m still alternating nights of SR Luna oil & Good Genes with Neutrogena Hydroboost gel-cream?, while using the regular FAB moisturizer during the day. It’s crazy good to wear under makeup, so hydrating, but it soaks right in and doesn’t make my foundation slide.
Karen says
Might be something to try if your skin ever goes bonkers with dryness. It’s just as nice as the daytime moisturizer!
Tatiana says
1. What’s your skin type? Dry. Mild to moderate rosacea. Used to be oily so I have huge pores.
2. Your latest skin care love? Don’t really have one.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? Nothing
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? When I was pregnant with Dear Daughter. Makes no sense. Every other woman has skin issues w pregnancy. Me, I had the best hair, skin and nails of my life. Sigh.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Clinique Moisture Surge.
6. What’s your skin tone? Fair with a neutral undertone. Except when my rosacea flares then I’m definitely pink to red.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? The sun. Lack of sleep. Junk food particularly sugar. Not drinking enough water.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Healthy diet with less meat and lots of veggies. Treating it gently, no exfoliants, acids, etc.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? Nothing really. I’m afraid to have anything done to my skin since it’s so darn sensitive.
Karen says
Dang, I remember my pregnancy hair. It was AH-MAY-ZING. Le sigh…
Christine says
1. What’s your skin type?
Dry. Used to be NYC-style pizza-oily absolutely not kidding.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Serums; currently using Hylamide SubQ Skin (one of the Deciem companies — The Ordinary, etc.)
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (a/k/a “chickenblood”). I ran out and placed an order recently from Deciem (I order directly instead of from Sephora) but for some reason did not add this to my order! Durrh….
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
Before MASKS but since I’ve moved to Hawaii. The moist tropical air and lots of non-SPF sunshine first thing in the morning + salt water (esp. since no tourists have been mucking it up with their spray-on SPF lately) has been great. We are the opposite, Karen. I had THE WORST skin of my life until I turned 40. Constant oiliness and acne.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Nivea lotion. And apparently the cream is a dupe for La Mer.
6. What’s your skin tone?
Medium yellow surface tone, olive underlying tone. I consider myself a “warm & delicate” if I’m going by Merriam Style’s Artistic License system.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Dryness. Lactic acid. Masks. Sugar/refined carbohydrates.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Moisture, hydration, high-fat/protein in the diet.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Microneedling! I just purchased a .3mm dermaroller and I’m loving it! Would love to have slightly longer needles done by a pro.
I’m liking the skin care-centric theme of today’s poll! Have a great Monday, everyone. 😉
Jaclyn Levy says
Thanks for the dupe suggestion!
Christine says
Jaclyn, I’m sure results may vary but it’s worth an inexpensive try (lots of opinions on the YT). You could always use the rest for body if it doesn’t work out for face. 😉
Karen says
Back in my 20s and early 30s day I had uber-oily skin like you. I was shocked, SHOCKED, when mine started going dry!
Christine says
Same! If someone had told me I WOULDN’T need Shiseido oil blotters for the rest of my life I would have laughed heartily.
Karen says
Those were my jam back in the day. I can’t believe I used to be all about “oil control” and lightweight gel moisturizers. Now I’m like NOOOOOO!
Chelsea says
1. What’s your skin type?
Sensitive, chronically dehydrated
2. Your latest skin care love?
Cheryl Lee MD True Lipids Ceramide+ cream – long name but my skin loves it.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
Going to a derm – I’m never sure if what’s going on with my face is rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, or a combination. Also need a mole check.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
Childhood through 18 I had good skin!
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Bioderma Sensibio H2O for maybe 8 years?
6. What’s your skin tone?
Fair, neutral skin tone, freckly
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Harsh products, too many products, exfoliation, sun, heat, trying new things
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Gentle cleansing, simple routine, moisturizer, sunscreen
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Lasers for broken capillaries in a heartbeat
Karen says
Bioderma Sinsibio is great stuff! I need to get another bottle!
Jaclyn Levy says
Such an interesting line of questions, I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s answers!
1. What’s your skin type? I don’t know?
2. Your latest skin care love? I discovered last year that Differin gel is sold OTC! I had no idea! I think using it has made a huge difference.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? Basically everything from CeraVe. I don’t know where to start though so I just stare at the products then walk away confused without buying anything. Finding a really good night cream to put on for nights I’m not using Differin would be awesome.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? The last couple of years including now. At the very least I’m now more confident than I used to be. I haven’t worn foundation in forever because i haven’t felt the need. I feel pretty lucky to be where I’m at at 36 years old! Wearing sun screen every day since I was 20 is really starting to pay off. I feel like I have more youthful looking skin than my counterparts. My claim to fame is last year when I had a makeup appt at Ulta and the beauty consultant took a cotton ball to wipe off my foundation…but I wasn’t wearing any! She thought I was. Big ego boost.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? I’ve worn Neutrogena sunscreen nearly daily since college!
6. What’s your skin tone? Olive-toned, like a less regal JLO or Princess Jasmine. 😀
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Stress.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Water and not being stressed out.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? Probably a regular facial! I had one once from a friend who was attending beauty school so it was really cheap. It would be fun to go all out though!
Karen says
I love that story of the makeup artist trying to remove your “foundation.” AHH, SO GOOD!!!
Keni Lynn says
1. What’s your skin type? It has been combination most of my life but lately has been dry and sensitive.
2. Your latest skin care love? Skinceuticals CE Ferulic Serum, Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, and Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight —- I’m getting a good result from this, but it is kind of a love/hate thing because the rumors are true – the CE Ferulic smells like hot dog water. I bit the bullet and just bought it even though it’s the most expensive skin care product I have ever purchased.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? The makeup from Sisley Paris apparently includes skin care in all of its makeup, so I’m going to say Sisley Paris Les Phyto-Ombrés Eyeshadow and Sisley Paris Sisleÿa Le Teint Anti-Aging Foundation. I already have a blush and concealer from this brand and love them.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Probably when I was 10. I have never liked my skin.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
6. What’s your skin tone? Fair/light
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Waxing
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Exfoliaters
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? This is super boring – Microdermabrasion
Karen says
The Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is the real deal. I used to use it a few years back, but now it’s a little out of my budget. I would love to find an affordable dupe eventually!
Susan C. says
1. What’s your skin type?
Combination skin, though the dry parts are getting more dry as the years pass. My forehead seems to be in its own little zone.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Hempz Pomegranate Herbal Body Moisturizer.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
I’m looking for a good, inexpensive exfoliant.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
When I was in my mid-30s.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser, and Banana Boat Sport Performance Lip Balm SPF50. Love that stuff.
6. What’s your skin tone?
Fair with cool undertones. As a kid I had freckles, now the freckles have faded but I have some age spots (ugh) and ruddy cheeks.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Coffee and caffeine. It breaks me out around the mouth and chin area. Not a good look.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Plenty of water, plenty of exercise, plenty of sleep.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Maybe IPL for sun damage, if it works on my skin tone.
Karen says
The Neutrogena cleansers are legit. I’ve used Fresh Foaming and liked it; my fave, though, is Ultra Gentle!
Erica says
1. What’s your skin type? Oily
2. Your latest skin care love? Still Cera Ve Cleanser for oily skin
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? Farmacy Cleansing Balm
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Right now. Not bad when most cannot believe my age!
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Cera Ve Cleanser
6. What’s your skin tone? Light. Neutral. About MAC NC 20
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Alcohol Denat/SD Alcohol/Grain alcohols. Fragrance synthetic or natural. Most “natural” essential oils are fragrance and not good for your skin. Also anything too heavy or emollient. They clog my pores and give me milia
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Salicylic Acid at a 1% or 2% at least
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? A chemical peel if it would help acne scarring
Karen says
I’ve heard that chemical peels can be very effective. I’d like to try one too, eventually.
Jennifer Baird says
1. What’s your skin type?
Oily! So much oil! and acne, the older I am getting the worse breakouts I seem to have.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Olehenriksen balancing face oil control toner, Cest moi clarifying clay facial mask and bakuchiol reface pads (retinol alternative)
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
A miracle for my adult acne to go away and never ever come back!!
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
When I was 13yrs old in 1992 and I really wish I had not taken that for granted lol
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Kate Somerville Eradikate Daily foaming Cleanser for almost 2 years and Clinique clarifying lotion 3 for 3 years.
6. What’s your skin tone?
You know that’s a good question. I know in makeup I need a neutral foundation due to all the redness around my cheeks and nose. I am a redhead and I have very fair skin. I think I have a peachy undertone but I am not entirely sure.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
not drinking enough water, not watching the foods I eat, lack of sleep and stress
Oh! I learned the hard way don’t wear makeup under your mask, just don’t! That was bad. I not only broke out all around my lower face, but I also got a rash.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Plenty of water, taking my supplements, sleep, and avoiding certain foods that I know trigger acne breakouts.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
I have not done any of that yet and I used to say that wasn’t for me. However, now that I am 42 and I am still struggling with this adult acne, (and scars from all the breakouts) if someone gave me the money or I won the lottery I might be more open to something lol.
Cha says
1. What’s your skin type?
Combo- dry and normal. Dry in the winter between the brows, forehead and under eye areas. But since Ive used hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and this ultrasonic skin spatula I have not have dry patches as much.
2. Your latest skin care love? Tula probiotic products.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
LED face mask therapy.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
When I was pregnant. Oh that glow.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Josie Maran Argan Oil. I just keep coming back to it.
6. What’s your skin tone?
Medium tan with yellow undertones.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Lack of sleep.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Ample sleep like REM type and vegetable juice.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Everything in the menu at Belo Med and/or Aivee Skin Care Clinic in Manila. Even skin tone, glass skin type. Not so much the whitening because Im proud of my color.
Hi there Karen! Thank you for mentioning McNear Beach. Brought the hubs and the toddler there and we had a great time esp the little one. XO
Karen says
Hi Cha,
So glad you enjoyed it! Did you guys get in the water?
Cha says
Hello! My baby and I did! It was really nice. Next on the list is the Marin French Cheese Co.
Karen says
Awesome! Be sure to bring your fishing poll when you go to Marin French Cheese. Oh, and if your little likes to splash, I’ve seen kids actually go into the pond (!) to play with buckets and whatnot.
Cha says
Eeeeek! This made me excited. Im sure the little girl will be squealing with delight when we get there. She loves her beachcombing bucket so this should be so much fun for her.
Thank you so much!
Karen says
You’re welcome. There’s really no sandy beach area which transitions to the pond — last time I was there, it was grass, then mud, then water. Maybe bring extra towels and water to clean her off. There’s also a restroom (which I’ve never used, but the rest of the place is well kept up, so I’m assuming it’s clean).
Jae says
1. What’s your skin type?
Normal but sensitive. Definitely drier in the winter months
2. Your latest skin care love?
Swanicoco Fermentation Peptine Eye Care. My eye area has become so much more sensitive that I’ve been hesitant to use new products, but this one doesn’t irritate or dry my under eye area and has yielded noticeable results. I’ve been using it since March and am almost out so will be repurchasing for sure!
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
NOID Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
My skin was really happy in my 20s despite the hard party weekends and late night studying and again in my early 30s. In this new decade however, everything is wonky and I feel like it’s back to my unstable teenage skin.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
My Mizon aha/bha toner that’s been gentle yet effective on my skin. It’s been a staple in my routine for the last 6 years.
6. What’s your skin tone?
A light/honey tan with a yellow undertone. I can get to a nice medium to deep tan during the summer months being outdoors a lot but I don’t see that happening this summer.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Definitely stress and hormones. I’ve also noticed that not keeping a balanced diet and constant exercise wreaks havoc on my overall balance so I’ve been trying to maintain both while still indulging my sweet tooth.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Lots of water, fruit & veggie intake plus quality sleep. The area of sleep is what I’ve been able to ramp up for the past few months when the SIP was heavily enforced and my body is thankful for it.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
I would be open to a pro chem peel and laser therapy on my face but it’s been so sensitive the past few years that I’m scared that any of that would do more harm than good. If my skin is less sensitive as I move into the next decade, I may look into some anti aging procedures.
Rebecca says
Hey Karen – instead of the P50 you might consider Moon Juice Beauty Shroom Acid Exfoliating Potion. I’ve used both and they are very similar in application, feel, effectiveness, and results. I actually prefer the Moon Juice – the phenol in the P50 irritates my eyes and its strong smell can be hard to tolerate – and I don’t mind that it is way less expensive.
I’m with you on the Anti Bac. I can’t explain why it’s the only benzoyl peroxide treatment that doesn’t dry out my skin, even though it’s a higher concentration (5% vs. 2.5%) than others I have tried. A tiny amount spreads easily, sinks right in, and doesn’t mess up whatever you put on top.
For pigment blobs, you might try Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum. I get brown discoloration on my upper lip and cheeks from sun exposure and it’s the fastest and best product I’ve tried to get rid of it – really the only OTC product that has ever worked for my “sunstache”. It’s pricey but they do sell a small bottle for trying it out.
Karen says
Thanks, Rebecca. The Murad product just happens to be on sale at Ulta right now. I might just pick it up!
Eileen says
1. What’s your skin type? Bone dry, mature, with mild, but well-controlled, rosacea. Actually, as I’ve aged, the rosacea has become less and less of a problem.
2. Your latest skin care love? Tatcha’s Violet-C Brightening Serum. It has three types of stabalized C (20%) and glycolic acid (10%)
.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? I have everything I need or want so I don’t have a wish list.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? I believe it was when I was in my twenties and odd to say, I believe my skin is in excellent condition now despite being in my seventies. I think it goes to show that since skin is constantly renewing itself, you’re never too old to take good care of it.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Jack Black Protein Boosting Serum has been part of my daily routine forever and a day!
6. What’s your skin tone? I’m quite light with subtle peach undertones.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Stress and lack of sleep.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Sticking to my skin care routine and getting adequate sleep.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? I wouldn’t mind having my jaw line tightened up a bit.
Efrain says
Hey there!
1. What’s your skin type?
Combination my T-zone leans only, my cheeks dry and around my mouth super dry; also, it ‘s reactive I can’t use many actives like retinoids daily (even the Caroline’s Hirons flannel method is too much for me).
2. Your latest skin care love?
I think Kiehl’s vit C serum, I swear my skin was glowing; when it is on my budget I’ll buy it.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
Well, I’ve just ordered one, but Hada Labo hyaluronic acid lotions. They seem to be what my skin needs now.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
I think that after using tretinoin and having two peelings; but I was also 17 so everything look even better.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
LRP Toleriane cream cleanser, I’ve gone through around five or six bottles of it, so around two years. I panicked when it wasn’t available in Amazon.
6. What’s your skin tone?
Medium/medium-tan with olive/peachy undertones, I learned that foundations with olive tones suit me better, but a peachy one works well too.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Alcohol, sugar and not cleansing properly.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Following a good skincare routine and drinking water.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
If money wasn’t a problem I’d go without thinking for a laser procedure to reduce the appearance of the acne scars on my cheeks and the dark spots.
Thank you for your beautiful message on my last Instagram’s post.
Karen says
You’re very welcome! You looked so happy in your pic. It made me happy too!
Efrain says
Well, it was the red lipstick magic. I still get impressed of how much it changes your face.
But yes, thank you for being a friend.
Ewa says
1. What’s your skin type?
Sensitive, combination.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Dermalogica Invisible spf30
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
Allies of Skin Bright Future Sleeping Facial
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
When I was a teenager, before the rosacea kicked in.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Tatcha Deep Cleanse
6. What’s your skin tone?
Light medium, warm\golden undertones
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Exfoliants
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Drinking enough water, being gentle with cleansing
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
Laser to rid of broken capillaries in my cheeks
Danielle says
1. What’s your skin type? Combo sensitive acne prone
2. Your latest skin care love? Aveda liquid exfoliant
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? Valmont Face mask (Too expensive)
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Up until age 16
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? CeraVe and acne cream from the Derm
6. What’s your skin tone? Fair to light
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Hormones, heat
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Exercising, facials
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? My skin is sensitive so that stuff makes me nervous, but something to get rid of under eye circles. Makeup doesn’t hide them!
Liv says
1. What’s your skin type?
Combo and way sensitive.. too much moisture and it’s zit city, too little and I start to get dry patches on my cheeks
2. Your latest skin care love?
Kiehl’s calendula cleanser!! It really makes my skin feel clean without being squeaky
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
A quality vitamin c serum, I’m saving up for a good one! Recommendations are definitely welcome
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
Believe it or not, high school! I didn’t have any acne until after I turned 18, and neither has any other woman in my fam.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Classsssic aquaphor. Lip balm, eye cream, even a highlight or flyaway tamer in a pinch!
6. What’s your skin tone?
Fair, neutral toned but tans surprisingly easily
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Stress, wearing foundation too often, and dairy
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Being consistent with my skincare!! And staying hydrated
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it?
One of those vampire facials >:) I can’t help but be a little drawn to it just because of the spook factor (although glowy clear skin isn’t a bad benefit too)
Kate & Bree says
1. What’s your skin type?
Extremely sensitive, combination skin that is still acne prone.
2. Your latest skin care love?
Lumene Nordic-C Glow Boost Essence Serum (I just call it Nordic C.) Moisturizing, lightweight and I haven’t had any overly dry or overly oily patches since I started using it. It’s magic, I swear.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list?
A professional facial. I’ve always wanted one.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life?
I’m with you Karen. My skin as a child was glorious. Age 11 and pimples happened. Life was never the same.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest?
Probably Differin. I’ve used it since it first came out actually. I use it more as maintenance now. It’s the only retinoid I can use.
6. What’s your skin tone?
As a friend once aptly put it: “Too pale and cool-toned for most makeup brands.” Hilariously, a decade later…this still holds true. I am still too pale and cool-toned for the vast majority of makeup brands. Those that DO have my color all have foundations that have silicone in them. – flails – The curses.
7. What brings out the worst in your skin?
Silicones (particularly dimithicone), (bad) stress, hormones, really crappy processed food, strong sulfates, harsh soaps, and wacky weather. Oh, and lupus flares.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin?
Clean (no hormones, antibiotics, free range, etc etc etc) meat and food, lots of water, time with the horses (aka exercise), being at the beach, gentle and more natural skin products.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? Lasers! I have some acne scars I’d love to be free from.
Syahidah says
1. Dry all over, sensitive and prone to redness around the nose and cheeks, hormonal acne-prone around my chin.
2. Bioeffect EGF serum.
3. BR P50 lotion and their Masque Vivant.
4. At 19 years old, when I fell in love for the first time.
5. Osmosis Rescue serum.
6. Multicolor because I’m a woman of color. I go between light to medium to tan depending on how much sun I get.
7. Ongoing stress, hormones, really crappy processed food, harsh, drying products.
8. Clean food (no meat), lots of water, exercise, sun (with SPF protection), gentle, supportive skincare that works long-term.
9. I’m still dealing with some fallout from an ill-advised IPL session so I’m good on that front.
Jennifer Emmett says
Skipped this yesterday, I was like skin, meh…But today I caught myself examining my face in the rear view mirror in the Home Depot parking lot and decided to come back.
1. What’s your skin type? Dry to normal.
2. Your latest skin care love? SuperGoop gel sunscreen.
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? As of today I’d like to visit a dermatologist.
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? Probably when I was a kid.
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? Derma E moisturizer for a few years.
6. What’s your skin tone? NC per MAC
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? Drinking booze
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? Not messing with it too much.
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? That dermatologist visit!
ericca says
1. What’s your skin type? normal to dry
2. Your latest skin care love? the ordinary alpha arbutin
3. Something skin care related that’s currently on your wish list? kiehl’s avocado mask
4. When did you have the best skin of your life? believe it or not , when i was in my late teens early twenties
5. What skin care products have you been using the longest? i would have to say the ordinary
6. What’s your skin tone? dark
7. What brings out the worst in your skin? me picking at it.
8. What things bring out the best in your skin? water and a stable routine
9. An expensive skin care procedure you’d be willing to try if you didn’t have to pay for it? since skin its over your entire body, i would like something to remove whatever scar or bruise
Karen says
Hi Ericca,
All the gals here on MBB rave about The Ordinary so now I have a working wish list. What is it about the Alpha Arbutin that you like?