Belle Belle Beauty

Dry Winter Skin

This winter has been brutal on my skin. I have been constantly itchy and flaky and I am sitting here just praying for a warm spring rainstorm. I purchased humidifiers for my apartment and have the diffuser constantly running. I even have surrendered to sleeping at 65 degrees to avoid running the heat.

I was determined for some relief and I think I have found a duo that can fight the dry. First, I brought out my trusty Salux Nylon Japanese Beauty Skin Bath Cloth – super strange but it works so well. It is this really long (35 inches), rough, thin towel that suds up like a dream. It is softer than a loofah, but still textured for exfoliating entire body. Perfect for reaching my neck and back too. I use it with Neutrogena Rainbath Refreshing Shower And Bath Gel but am on the prowl for a more moisturizing body wash – let me know if you have suggestions!

The real kicker is a find by Dad – he discovered it at his favorite hunting ground, Wal-Mart (lol). Gold Bond Medicated Body Lotion Extra Strength is my new favorite thing. The smell is insanely refreshing thanks to menthol which fights itch. Dimethicone is a skin protectant and aloe soothes. Emulsifying wax makes this thick and nourishing, but somehow it melts into skin without being sticky.

It is still a constant battle, but thanks to these (affordable) gems, I am finally feeling better. Take that, Winter!

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!

HOURGLASS Ambient Light Correcting Primer

I think Hourglass has established itself as a luxury brand that is here to stay at this point. And what I love about it (and attribute its success to) is the natural and luminous finishes and luxurious feel. I have tried most of their products, but what I keep coming back to is face color. Right now, I am hooked on the HOURGLASS Ambient Light Correcting Primer.

This primer can be worn under foundation or alone. Its main purpose is to blur and perfect while adding a glow. The light-correcting pigments neutralize and brighten my skin. Since I run a little red, this is perfect for me. The formula is oil-free and weightless. It soaks into my skin without looking greasy. I love the smaller sized tube for travel. And you’ll only need a pea-sized amount. I apply with my fingers. Lately, I have applied MAC Studio Face & Body Foundation on top of this primer for a very natural look. Hourglass products are 100 percent cruelty-free. Available at Sephora.

PHYTO PHYTOJOBA Intense Hydrating Brilliance Mask

Hello! Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. I had a busy work schedule over the holidays but got away to Florida to see my mom this past weekend and it was glorious. Everyone was apologizing for how cold it was (50s and 60s) and I was like “this is glorious!”. Hahaha!! Tulsa has been literally freezing. I have a ton of health and beauty tips from mom to share – I am making the potassium broth she introduced to me right now. Sounds weird but it is delicious – just google it.

One little treasure mom shared her thoughts on with me was the PHYTO PHYTOJOBA Intense Hydrating Brilliance Mask. I can’t find this anywhere but Amazon so it might be discontinued, so if it sounds appealing, snap it up while you can. Mom’s hair is dry so she is always looking for something to infuse moisture and this does it big time. The mask is aromatic and contains jojoba oil. The formula melts into hair for nourishing hydration while angelica root and orange essential oil add shine. Right before a walk one morning, mom slathered some on and let it “marinate” while we sweat a little bit. Perfect way to use it in my book.

Available at Amazon.

Shopbop Sale Alert

I know we are all a little shopped out after the holidays, but it just so happens that this is a perfect time of year to pick up some winter basics at Shopbop. The sale items are additional 25% off with JOY25 through December 28th.

Some of my favorite things on my wish list:

Jade Roller Massager

I am kicking myself because I stumbled on this find during some late night surfing and cannot for the life of me figure out what beauty blogger buddy came across this gem. (If it was you, please let me know! – I really really want to give credit where due). I immediately hit purchase for myself and some friends. I am all about a beauty device, especially at budget friendly prices.

This jade roller is super smooth and used to massage your face, neck and forehead. The smaller roller on the other end works well on the nose and under eyes. This action promotes blood circulation, reducing puffiness and wrinkling. Not to mention, I love how pampering if feels. I use with any lotion for extra hydration.

Available on Amazon.