L’Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Smooth Souffle Makeup

I am so lazy when matching colors.  So I shy away from drugstore brands.  I still haven’t figured out the right shade for the hot, new Maybelline FIT.  But I did happen to find the right shade in this Souffle and I was smitten with the texture.  I thought it would be perfect to use with the L’Oreal Magic Perfecting Base, previously and positively reviewed.  While the color worked well with my Fair-Medium skin, there was a greyish cast to my face.  There wasn’t the luminosity I have enjoyed with so many other products.  For a matte look, this could work, but cheek color would have to be employed.

Bobbi Brown Rich Color Gloss

I have always trended towards a more neutral lip and gloss only, never lipstick.  This winter I wanted to go out on a limb.  This product is perfect for those wanting to make their first foray into a strong lip.  It is advertised as having the coverage of a lipstick, the  shine of a gloss, and feel of a balm. The scent is not as strong as many other Bobbi Brown products, but there is a slight mint vanilla which is very pleasant.  I am currently using Pink Buff, but wouldn’t hesitate to come back for more colors as I up the drama.  These glosses don’t have the wear of a lipstick, but with the feel of a balm and nice scent, I don’t mind an occasional re-application.

  • Dusty Rose (pink mauve)
  • Naked (nude beige)
  • Pink Buff (nude pink)
  • Pink Raspberry (bright rose)
  • Ruby Red (bright red)

Dermatologist Visit

I know this is hard to believe, but I think sometimes I get carried away with products (haha). I sauntered into my dermatologist appointment yesterday, prideful of all the bells and whistles in my skin care routine.  But she reminded me that simple is sometimes better.  I never have been drawn to the medicinal, fragrance-free skin care.  But that is what the doctor ordered.  I know am paired down to Cetaphil, a retinoid, CeraVe lotion – and of course LOTS of SPF.  I know it will work beautifully but part of me will miss my fragrant routine.  Will report back with results.

Lazy Girl’s Evening Routine

I feel like I am living vicariously through all of you at New York Fashion week, so I thought I would share my short-cut evening routine.  Wish I could say I practice it every now and then, but sometimes it is more often than not. First, Pond’s Wet Cleansing Towelettes, Evening Soothe with Chamomile & White Tea.  They really do smell wonderful and calming while managing to get rid of the daily dirt and makeup.  Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM, which is moisturizing and still a treatment (reviewed below).  Lastly,  Garnier Anti-Dark Circle Eye Roller.  They also have an anti-puff variety, but I am blessed with those genetic dark circles so the one in the gold packaging is my pick.  And, you are done.  Not the most rigorous nighttime routine, but it will get you by in an pinch.

Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM

One of my new year’s resolutions was to finally start using anti-aging products…and use them religiously.  But I love trying new products (clearly) so integrating one product, long term, in my routine is tough.  The trials of a beauty junkie.  But this Retinol Fusion PM made the cut.  My skin didn’t do well with prescription retinol products (think red, dry and peeling).  So I was a little nervous using a product with retinol in it.  The serum did not agitate my skin at all.  In fact, it was soothing and moisturizing.  I do think I have seen collagen improvement. A bonus is that it also has vitamin C & E. I know these products are an investment, but so far, it has been a good one for me.

Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronzing Powder

Okay, I am shy about blush.  With my fair skin, it just seems like it was so obvious and artificial on me.  So I had been opting for a one-tone finish on my face.  That was until Celia at the Bobbi Brown counter got a hold of me.  When I saw the compact, I thought “wow, that looks pink, but I really like the name ‘Antigua’”. So I let her have her way with my cheeks.  This came out as illuminating, duh, but authentic.  It was sheer but gave emphasis on my cheekbones.  It was easy to use and after I learned that I didn’t need loads of the product on my brush, I have become proficient.  I love it so much, it goes with me everywhere now.

Available colors: Antigua (light pink – below), Maui (pink coral), Bali Brown (gold), Aruba (light gold), Bahama (deep gold), Barbados (warm deep gold).