Skin Savers : Splurge VS. Save

“People will stare. Make it worth their while”.  – Harry Winston

While I think we all know beauty comes from within, taking care of our skin is right up there on the list with brushing and flossing. I love trying new products, seeing what’s out there and excited about the possibility of what I might find – a new favorite mascara or the best moisturizer I’ve ever used?! You won’t know until you try..

So everything I have rounded up on this simple little list is what I think are the necessities for even the laziest skin care shopper! I never write about products I have never tried myself, so these are all products I have used and love and happily recommend to anyone whose looking for a new favorite essential product. It all depends on what you’re looking for and what you wanting to spend.

I’ll be honest, splurging on cosmetics and beauty these days are not really realistic in our household. But when I get the chance to spend a little extra on something for me (shhh, don’t tell my husband) these are just some go-to’s.

Have you tried them before? What did you think?

Are there any products in particular you’re excited to try? Let me know in the comments!

i think i’ll SPLURGE 

Cleanser

Shiseido Benefiance Extra Creamy Cleansing Foam

This soft and fluffy cleanser (good for all skin types) not only removes all makeup and impurities but it gently exfoliates with it’s little granulated beads in it’s soft mixture. Even the teeniest tiniest amount will safice and do the job which means better bang for your buck. I have combination skin – oily in my T zone/lightly dry on my cheeks, so finding the right cleanser to please both of my skin types isn’t easy. That’s why the smallest amount is perfect for me. If you are on the oilier side, you might take a little more, but you won’t be needing much more as it’s rich in texture and not overly foamy which tends to dry out skin. (It’s much more creamy then foamy)

Toner

Dior Gentle Toning Lotion

Gentle indeed! Toner is a must for me and I hate not having it, I find that extra step really helps clean any dirt missed when washing your face while making it feel refreshed and toned before you mositurize. The down fall? That tight and dry feeling that some harsh toners leave after stripping far to many natural oils from your face. This one does not and is perfectly gentle for my sensitive combination skin, (and with the price tag, it had better be) and after using such a gentle formula you will never be able to go back to the harsh stuff!

Moisturizer

Philosophy Renewed hope in a Jar

Oh Philosophy, the name says it all! Their simple yet uplifting packaging is a sweet bonus to all the good stuff inside. The brand itself is one of my faves and I was a devout fan (until the little birds flew in…) so I love all their stuff. But this moisturizer really is one of the very best. The delicate smell, light feel and perfectly mositurizing cream is worth every penny and leaves you wanting more!

Exfoliator 

First Aid Facial Radiance Pads 

The easiest way to exfoliate, swipe and swipe! It’s the easiest and still one of the best exfoliaters I’ve ever used – and I love exfoliating! The best part is they’re still gentle enough to use everyday, great for all skin types and help brighten your skin tone. Yes please!

no thanks, i’d rather SAVE

Cleanser

Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser 

I still wonder if Cerave was MADE for the busy mom because it couldn’t be more perfect and effective. It feels so light weight when washing your face without leaving your skin feeling tight and yet so clean. No strong smells or ingedients (fragrence free and all natural ingredients) it’s also non-irritating and non-comedogenic. Bonus : It’s so light and natural that I was able to use it throughout my pregnancy and while breastfeeding – I told you it was made with moms in mind – oh and they have a baby brand too! I use the Foaming cleaner for Normal to oily skin. If you are more dry you will want the Hydrating Cleanser   

 

Moisturizer

Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion 

Need I remind you of all of the above!? I didn’t think so. I love this brand’s range…and priec tag! (This mositurizer is for the day with added SPF, if you’re looking for a PM facial moisturizer, click here)

Toner

Nivea Aqua Effect Purifying Toner 

For me, Nivea is one of those brands I began using in highschool because I could afford it, and now I still use it simply because I love it. Sometimes, if it ain’t broke…you don’t need to fix it. And although I come and go and try all kinds of brands with bigger price tags, this toner is still one of my faves that I always find my way back too. If you have normal to dry skin or sensitive skin you can also try this one. However, my skin is sensitive and I have never felt dry or tight after using their purifying toner!

Exfoliator

Aveeno Positively Radiant 60 second in-shower facial

While exfoliating the dead skin cells off your body and face is important, sometimes it isn’t always easy to fit it into an already busy schedule. And just like the awesome and easy radiance pads I spoke of above – this one is easy too. You can do it in the shower!  A little amout used 2-3 times a week to keep your skin feeling soft and reducing your pores. Plus the added bonus of a little extra pampering in the shower doesn’t hurt either.

What do you guys think? Do you think I’m missing anything?

Is there a certain product your looking to add to your skin care regimen and need a recommendation or ideas? Shoot me an email, I’ll be happy to help! x

With Love,

Michelle and the minis xo