My {Affordable!} Secrets for Flawless Skin

I don't want to toot my own horn here, but I often get compliments on complexion.  I can't take all the credit: I am sure genes have a lot to do with it.  But I've noticed a huge improvement in my skin since I started using and doing certain things.  I'm happy to share with you all.  I've discovered that healthy glowing skin is a combination of things: both inside and out. And it doesn't have to cost a fortune.



Outside

I do not spend a lot of money on products.  I simply do not see the need to do so, since there are so many tried and true products available on a budget. Back before I had my kids, I splurged on super pricey products and my skin wasn't nearly as nice as it is now.  Friends of mine recommended the website: The Cosmetics Cop and in particular her review site, Beautypedia.  Check this one out!  Beautypedia has a product-by-product review and really puts products, and their claims, to the test.  I don't buy anything without first checking this site.  And she even has an app for your phone!  Here are my products:



Most of these are highly recommended by Beautypedia (she gives a more neutral review of my cleanser, Cetaphil, but it works for me so I won't change it).  Anyway, my routine is this: every night I use Cetaphil cleanser on my face.  I love it.  It's very gentle. But the Cosmetics Cop is right: it isn't great at removing make-up.  So after that, I use Up and Up Magic Makeup Remover (from Target).  It's inexpensive and works great.  Then I use some witch hazel. I put it on a cotton ball and swipe all over my face. It is gentle and gets off all the make-up.  Then I round it out with Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream.  A tiny dab goes a long way.  

In the morning, I just splash some cool water on my face and use Cetaphil Day Cream with spf 15.  Done!  

Inside

I happen to think that what you put in your body makes a huge difference in how your skin looks.  I know when I've had one too many cocktails, my complexion shows it immediately.  About ten years ago, I decided to cut out all sodas entirely.  I used to have a diet coke or two each day.  I stopped this and switched to water.  That alone made a huge difference.  I still have sodas from time to time but only on the rare occasion.  I drink about two liters of water through the day.



I drink a cup of peppermint tea per day.  Every day at 2 pm ... it's like my own personal tea time.  I'm not sure if the tea has anything to do with my face, but I noticed an improvement in my glow once I added this to my day.  



And there you have it!  All of these things are either free or really inexpensive. I think the priciest item on the list is the night cream and that's only $14.  What about you? Have any skin care secrets to share?  

See you swoon,

5 comments:

  1. Love this.. my skin is always so dry and 'blah' after winter, and I've definitely been on the lookout for things that to make my skin glow and look refreshed and rejuvenated (and feel that way too!)

    Did you really notice a big difference when you stopped drinking pop? I'm trying to quit.. work has been so busy, I find myself drinking at least 2 Coke's a day nowadays! I want to quit.. this only encourages me more!

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  2. Do you feel like the witch hazel is drying? I usually use Aveeno cleanser or dove soap and sometimes I worry that I'm not getting all the makeup off. I usually do well with Aveeno products, but it's nice to have some alternatives if they stop working!

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  3. Sara - yes! I noticed the biggest difference in my skin when I gave up soda. It was really dramatic. It cleared up and just looked healthier. It is a tough thing to give up, though! That's actually why I started drinking the peppermint tea: it had a jolt to wake me up but was totally without caffeine.

    Heather - I think witch hazel is super gentle. My skin tends toward dry and I've never had a problem.

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  4. On the topic of soda, I find myself needing a diet coke at lunch time to get me through the rest of my work day. I really wish I liked green tea-I hear that is a great pick me up.

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  5. Thank you so much for posting about this site. I went and checked it out and it's awesome!! I've been struggling with acne ever since I stopped taking birth control and I'm going to try some of her recommendations. Even a prescription from the dermatologist hasn't eliminated my breakouts. I'm also going to try the peppermint tea you recommended. Good luck this weekend with your 1/2 marathon!

    Heidi

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