Skin care advice from the PEERtrainer community
This is a new, current thread, but the information on here seems to be well received by the PEERtrainer community.
Advice - skincare
I need some advice and opinions, as I don't just want to be "sold."
I got a gift certificate to a very luxury makeup store/salon, to be used to purchase makeup for my upcoming wedding. I cannot simply get my makeup done there, b/c the wedding is in another state, and I'd rather do it myself anyway. Here's the dilemma:
I went in yesterday, and the woman just about yelled at me as she was asking me about my skincare routine - I use Neutrogena Acne Wash to wash my face in the shower, and I use a foundation with SPF most days. I'm 23. She says that I need a cleaner, a moisturizer, and a toner to use every morning, as well as some sort of moisturizing mask to do once a week. In addition, she says I should be using an eye cream every night, and a lip exfoliator once a week, followed by a tissue repair cream. She sent me home with TONS of samples, and said to come back in a week and she'll help me to find the right makeup, free of cost (normally the consultation costs $75! I was not going to pay that!)
Anyway, what do I really need? I'm 23, and have nice skin - not too oily or dry, an occasional pimple, but no real problems. The lady at the store said that if I do this preventative regimen that she told me, my skin will stay nice as I age. I'm all for prevention, but really, what's necessary?
Tue. Aug 8, 2:21pm
i have found that using a toner and moisturizer really maintains my facial skin well. i started using these two kinds of products in the mid-nineties (i'm 37 now) and my skin has retained its youthfulness. i use cruelty-free products w/o any alcohol-i don't know if that is a big factor. i also not used soap of any type on my face for many, many years-just wash in my daily shower with warm water. i also do not ever use foundation or any kind of "cover-up". i re-apply my facial moisturizer about 3 times a day. i get great comments all the time about my skin. i do, however wish that i included sun screen sooner in ny routine, as now i have some visible sun damage. but now, many products contain some sort of sun screen in the moisturizer. and i use a lip balm all the time.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:32 PM
same poster...
i use a facial clay-based mask about once or twice a month.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:36 PM
I have acne prone skin and I don't use a toner. I use oxy pads after I scrub my face and moisturize and thats it. Toner is alright but not required as I've heard.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 2:45 PM
I'm 36 with normal-to-dry skin but an overall great complexion (fair Irish). I've successfully avoided getting a sunburn more than once every 3 years, and my normal 'routine' is just a creamy soap like Dove and then a not-so-fancy moisturizer like Oil of Olay or, at the moment, Roc.
I did, however, really really like the Mary Kay 3-in-1 (cleanser, mild scrub and one other function I can't remember) - I just keep forgetting to get some. I also use a random Body Shop mask once or twice a month if I feel like my skin is a little lifeless.
I can't use lipstick or most lip products because they seem to bring on a cold sore (yuck).
I bought some eye stuff from Avon but I keep forgetting to use it.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:19 PM
At 23, you don't need all those products. Keep your skin clean and use sunscreen. An eye cream probably wouldn't hurt, as long as it's not really heavy. Sounds like your salesperson is on commission. I also wouldn't make major changes in my skincare routine right before the wedding - it could lead to major breakouts (particularly if any of the products have fragrances you're not used to, or are oil-based).
You could tell the salesperson you're not comfortable changing your skincare routine right now, but would love to try something new after the wedding, but right now you're just interested in makeup for the wedding.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:35 PM
I am 35. I haven't used bar soap on my face since I was a child. My skin is more on the oily side, but can get dry when I tan in the sun or tanning bed or if I over apply acne products to get rid of a zit. I use a gentle cleanser and moisturize a few days a week. I usually apply it in the shower. I also regularly use a strawberry facial mask. I think I have very nice skin for my age and people always think I am younger than I am. In fact, I was recently carded in a bar! Also, I noticed that since I started using a foundation from one of those luxury makeup counters, my skin looks amazingly better -- with or without the foundation. I think the moisturizers and SPF in the foundation have been very beneficial for my skin. I have been using Estee Lauder for about 8-10 years now.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:45 PM
Yeah, that saleswoman is full of sh!t, really.
Cleanse and moisturize (with at least 15 SPF) and you're good to go. #1 is to take care of your skin now (sunscreen) to prevent wrinkles for when you're older. Most dermatologists will tell you that Neutrogena products are just as good as La Mer anyway.
And this advice from above:
"You could tell the salesperson you're not comfortable changing your skincare routine right now, but would love to try something new after the wedding, but right now you're just interested in makeup for the wedding"
IS FANTASTIC! Great way to handle it.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:50 PM
OP here
Thanks so much for everyone's advice!
I've been using the samples for a day now, and my skin does feel somewhat softer, but maybe greasier...?? I'll give it the full week and see if it feels/looks different to me. Really, I just want the makeup, I think. Please keep the advice coming. I go back next Monday; I'll keep you updated!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 3:53 PM
cleanser vs. facial wash
Can someone tell me, what is the difference between a "cleanser" and a "facial wash"??? am i meant to use them both at the same time, or pick between the two?
Also, has anyone tried a product (washes, cleansers, moisturizers) that claims it "gradually brightens and evens skin tone"??? Does this mean they can reduce light sunspots/freckles?
As for my skincare regimen: Currently, i use a facial wash in the mornings and evenings ("clarifying facial wash" from Earth Science, or a drugstore brand Aloe facial wash). I moisturize only in the mornings, every day, using tinted SPF 30 moisturizer by Neutrogena. If i'm going out to something special, i'll add Clinique foundation (Superfit) to even out skin tone in particular areas (bridge of nose, under eyes and under brows) and/or some loose translucent powder if it's especially hot or humid, to keep my skin dry (Cover Girl). About once a week, I use a Neutrogena exfoliating wash (chemical exfoliation).
I used to use a toner in my early 20s (I'm 27 now), but never found it made a difference. I expect it's more useful if you have oily skin or visible pores. For the past few years, I only use a toner after plucking my eyebrows, to keep away bacteria (same as using astringent).
I do wish I would moisturize in the evenings too, but have never been able to get into the habit. When I do remember, I use Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizer, since I don't need an SPF moisturizer at night and this one is totally non-greasy makes skin feel softer in the morning.
As far as lips go, I use lip balms from the body shop, or lipstick from clinique, on a day to day basis, but they don't have SPF, so I should probably find a lip balm that does...
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 4:21 PM
talk to a dermatologist about what type of skin care regimen you need-not to a salesperson! no matter how nice or knowledgeable she seems-ultimately she's there to sell something . . .and that is why "more" is better coming from her. In fact, I would not only ask a dermatologist what you need for your skin, but i would ask (especially if it's a woman derm.) her what products she uses/recommends personally.
then go get a makeup consultation by the woman at the spa, and be firm about what you "need" . . .the makeup part is the fun part, only buy from her what you are actually psyched about! keep in mind, not all makeup is created equal . . .but some are!!! kohl liner pencils-most pencil eye liners are made of the same ingredients and will have the same effect . . it's the application that is important. you don't need to spend a lot on pencil eye liner to look great! but for foundation as well as eye shadows i definitely recommend spending a little more. it's totally worth it!
good luck-and congrats on the wedding!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006, 11:06 PM
OP here
Thanks!
Actually, all my dermatologist will tell me is to make sure I wear sunblock!
Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 10:49 AM
Highly recommended
I have "The Skin Type Solution," a book by Dr. Leslie Baumann & I highly recommend it to determine the types of products to use. You do a questionairre, then get recommendations based on your results (everyone falls into a 4-letter category, based on the quiz). She also recommends specific products, based on price levels. I have sensitive, dry skin that was breaking out, getting red, etc. Since using products from the book for at least 6 months now, I rarely get a pimple & my skin hasn't reacted to anything else. Try looking at the book before you go, if possible. My guess is that you won't need any of the expensive products & could get away much cheaper!
Link
Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 11:56 AM
I think as long as you use sunscreen everyday, you're doing most of the work to prevent aging, especially since you're 23. And the person who advised you not to mess with it right before your wedding is very smart! Experiment later! I get very easily intimidated by salespeople but just remember, it'll be a little uncomfortable to turn her down, but you'll kick yourself later if you give in to the pressure. I have super acne prone skin and people are always trying to sell me miracle cures but I can only use Proactiv. I think everyone's different, and since you have something that works for you and is affordable, you might as well stick with it.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 2:59 PM
These things work for me-- drink a ton of water, wear a hat outside and sunscreen, and make sure to get the area between the boobs and the neck. Clean your house! You'd be amazed how your skin can react to allergens. Eating water rich foods helps as well, remember that your body is mostly water.
Thursday, August 10, 2006, 11:01 AM
Hi there! I am a skin therapist, so hopefully my comment will hold a bit of weight, lol.
Of course the lady wants you to buy everything, but I suggest the basics if you don't want to spend too much...
1. an appropriate cleanser for your skin type (the acne wash sounds too harsh for your skin. I would suggest a more gentle gel cleanser)
2. the other absolutes are moisturizer and sunscreen. Moisturizer is essential to keep your skin hydrated, and the other ingredients in a good line are also there to benefit your skin)
3. The sunscreen is critical. Every day, without fail. The one in your moisturizer or foundation is not enough. I would suggest at the very least an SPF 15 for everyday use, but higher if you are going to be in the sun. Reapply often!
4. Toner is nice to hydrate the skin, but you can skip this.
5. A masque is nice, but again, not critical.
6. An eyecream is important, even at your age. They can be pricey, so choose wisely.
7. A good exfoliant 2x per week would be a nice addition, but when all else fails, go with a good cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen!
I hope that helps. The best prevention from aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation (those brown sun spots) is a great sunscreen applied every day, without fail.
Oh yea, wash your face every night before going to bed!
Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:05 AM
Face wash vs. cleanser
These are in fact one in the same, just called different things for marketing purposes.
As far as products for lightening and brightening, there are ingredients that do just that, but in over the counter products (stuff you can buy at the grocery store, etc) there just isn't enough strength of these ingredients to lighten up hyperpigmentation. I strongly suggest going to see a skin care therapist who uses a line that you like, and get into a professional line, building one piece at a time.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:12 AM
Nutrimetics
I am actually a skincare consultant for an all natural product called Avalla by Nutrimetics. All of their products are made from fruits and veggies, milk and all natural supplements. I am not trying to make a sell, just offer honest advice. I've been using the product myself for over 7 years and have just recently become a consultant. They offer makeup also. Like I said, everything is all natural so there will be no clogging of your pores or anything like that. If you have any more questions, let me know.
Link
Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:21 AM
All natural does not mean hypoallergenic or safe for your skin. Olive oil is all-natural, but it would certainly clog your pores if you used it on your face.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:25 AM
actually, olive oil IS very good for one's skin and is included as a main ingredient in many effective product lines. attached is a link to "kiss my face.com" and the list of their ingredients. however, i get your point about all natural maybe doesn't mean it's the best thing to use
Friday, August 11, 2006, 9:59 AM
Well, olive oil is probably fine for some skin types, but I wouldn't put it directly on my oily face, even if it is all-natural!
Friday, August 11, 2006, 11:17 AM
Nutrimetics
Congratulations on becoming a skincare consultant for your line! Does that mean you are a licensed esthetician in your state?
Friday, August 11, 2006, 12:00 PM
WOW
I just offered some information about the line that I am personally associated with. It wasn't meant to offend anybody or get you guys to jump on me, I didn't mean any harm. NOR did I EVER say it was better then what you guys are using! I left the link to find more information on this actual product. It is a skin care line that uses NO CHEMICALS! I NEVER SAID GO SLAP SOME OLIVE OIL ON YOUR FACE. If you're happy with what you are doing, I'm happy for you! Didn't mean to stir up unnecessary drama here! Just offered an opinion as everybody else did.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:34 PM
Re: Nutrimetics
No I am not by far a licensed esthetician. I am just a consultant for the products. We go to different trainings and seminars, but I am not certified. Thanks for asking.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:37 PM
I like olive oil on my skin. Especially in the middle of winter when the air is cold and dry dry dry.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:50 PM
i always use all natural, no added chemicals skin/body/hair care products. it's true that some products work better for me than others, but all are worth trying in place of chemically-laden, animal by-product-laden products in my opinion.
i checked out the linked website. is there a page on the site that details the ingredients used in making the products?
Friday, August 11, 2006, 1:54 PM
DHC is a natural company that offers many olive oil products. Its not cheap, but I think its good quality...I like their products
Link
Friday, August 11, 2006, 2:37 PM
What you said was, "Like I said, everything is all natural so there will be no clogging of your pores or anything like that. " which is misinformation - natural products can easily clog your pores. Your products may be fantastic, but don't make false claims about them.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 2:46 PM
ooh ooh, I'm NOT the previous poster... but I totally have to vote for Nutrimetics :)
(Actually it's, Nutrimetics by Avalla- LONG story short, Nutrimetics was sold from it's creators to SaraLee- SaraLee sold it to Tupperware, however, Pam Dean,(current president of Avalla, and previous president of Nutrimetics North America while owned by SaraLee) created Avalla to purchase the North American distribution rights to Nutrimetics....)
Anyways, I'm 25, I use a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, eye cream, mud masque, moisturizing masque, and exfoliant. And I have NO wrinkles, while my best friend- a soap and water kinda girl, does. I actually got carded when I bought alcohol two days before my 25th bday- and you have to be 18 to buy where I live...
And while some natural products may clog your pores, I've never seen Nutrimetics do it. My mother has been a consultant for almost 30 years, and I've never used a product (besides perfume) on my skin that wasn't Nutrimetics- obvioulsy, I've been old enough to make my choice about that for years, and I wouldn't want anything but it on my skin.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 3:19 PM
Thanks for your honesty! I wasn't on here trying to making any false claims. That person is quite controversial for no given reason. I'm not going to defend myself to somebody who is so sarcastic. Nobody is asking you to switch your products or anything, soo sorry if you were offended. I didn't give any misinformation, what I said stands. I am talking about this particular product, not EVERYTHING NATURAL! Read it how you need to!
Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:09 PM
I don't need you to tell me what I said! The statement was "NOR did I EVER say it was better then what you guys are using" If you don't like it... GET OVER IT! What are going back and fourth with me about it for? You're not obligated to it?!
"It is a skin care line that uses NO CHEMICALS! I NEVER SAID GO SLAP SOME OLIVE OIL ON YOUR FACE." These were the statements. What are you getting so testy about it for??
Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:13 PM
Good grief...someone's awfully defensive...
Friday, August 11, 2006, 5:51 PM
You're absolutely right! I feel like I was offering innocent advice. I wasn't trying to "claim anything" or put anything else down. I feel like you're trying to smack me around with my own words and it's completely unneccessary. So you are right in saying I am defensive. My response to her post was not meant to get you all aroused and defensive about natural products.
Friday, August 11, 2006, 6:00 PM
OP here...
Thanks everyone for all of your comments! Although I'm not sure what brands to go with yet, I think I want to find a good moisturizer with a strong SPF, and also find a cleanser that I like. I haven't decided about toner. Additionally, when I find a masque that I like, I'll buy it. I also want an eye cream, b/c my heredity says that I'll have big bags there soon enough; if I can ward them off at all, I'm all for it!
Thanks again!
Saturday, August 12, 2006, 4:36 PM
About proactiv
I was recently given a facail by a girl who had just gone to a senimar given by a natural products company (cant remember the name, but they are associated with Aveda). She said at the seminar, there was a rep from Proativ who actually said it WILL age your skin and cause it to age FASTER. It takes layers of skin off while cleansing..............WOW. I had used it in the past (like 4 yrs ago) and it worked fine but im glad i didnt comtinue !
I am going to use this product she recc. (although its on back order, so i have to wait) but after 1 treatment from her, i felt the difference! WOOWHHOO, i LOVE facials! ;)
I just wanted to pass along what i heard! ;)
Saturday, August 12, 2006, 7:02 PM
I never use soap of any kind on my face since I was a kid. Now at 50 I only use oil of olay moisturizure. Never wore any kind of powders etc on my face. The only makeup I ever used was eye shadow and liner. I drink lots of water a day and wear a hat when I'm out in the awful heat. I get comments all the time about how healthy I look and how great skin I have. My sister in law wears a ton of crap on her face, she is the same age as me but you would never know it. Her face looks like she has craters in it, I tell my 26 year old daughter not to put no makeup on her face cause makeup makes you look great at the time but years down the road it will look like crap.
Sunday, August 13, 2006, 11:25 AM
eye creams + face moisturisers
Thanks to the person who cleared up my confusion about cleanser vs wash!!! I will just use them interchangeably then. I was confused because I had two products of the same brand, but your advice makes sense.
To the skin therapist who posted Fri 12:05am - great list of tips. What kind of eyecream do you recommend for those of us in our 20s? I've almost bought some on several occasions, but was told by a specialist (from Lancome) that I didn't need it at my age (27) and I'm confused as to what to buy and when to apply???? Sorry I feel like I'm asking for advice I should pay you for!!!
And re face moisturizers with spf: I have found the tinted range from Neutrogena at SPF 30 provides adequate coverage, especially since I work in a windowless office and am walking in daylight for 30 mins a day only. But maybe I'm wrong? But sunblock is too greasy to wear on my face everyday???
-powerfrau
Sunday, August 13, 2006, 12:25 PM
clinique is fantastic-moisturizer w/ spf 25 "built-in". their lip and eye treatmentsare exceptional-although a little expensive, they last a long time-i think they are pretty much in line w/ other high quality product lines-and they are cruelty-free!!
Monday, August 14, 2006, 2:52 PM
So what is a good choice for skin care products for those of us with acne prone skin? The majority of products I've tried break me out badly, but I feel like I am aging myself prematurely (I'm 30) using acne medications.
Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:04 PM
here's a link that may be helpful for those w/ acne-prone skin...
Link
Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:07 PM
aveda products are wonderful! here is a link to their acne products.
Link
Monday, August 14, 2006, 3:30 PM
OP here
For everyone who thought the sales woman was trying to rip me off (myself included) - well... I went back last night, and she did my makeup, and had me help, to figure out what colors and styles I liked. Then she took all of this time to do makeup on a piece of paper with a face drawn on it, and write down each product that she used on each part, etc. Then she gave me the piece of paper and sent me on my way. No charge. And not a question of when I was coming back, and she ddn't even ask if I wanted to buy anything today! She just told me to go home and think about it, and even suggested getting some of the items at a drugstore!
I think she's very helpful, but as a business-minded person, I'm totally confused!
Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 10:47 AM
well, if you do go back to her to purchase make-up, think about tipping her for her time & help.
(maybe she's a peertrainer member and read this thread, lol !!)
Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 10:57 AM
She may also have understood that it's a large expense to switch over to an entirely new product line all at one time. By suggesting that you get some of the items at a drugstore, she probably hopes that you'll get at least a few of the items from her and then come back for more as things run out.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006, 9:21 PM
I am 37 and look about 22, people are usually shocked when I tell them my age, I still get carded. I think most of it comes from good genes but I will tell you what my routine is. Since I was about 30 I have washed my face every night. First I use DHC product called Deep Cleansing Oil, it is the most awesome product, it washes away makeup, dirt and leaves your face baby smooth. Then I use their olive oil soap. After I dry I use Philosophy's Hope in a Jar, I love this moisturizer. Once a week I do Phyilosophy's Microdelivery Peel System. Since using this for 2 years now everyone tells me how great my skin looks. I know I sound like an infomercial but this is a great system and I love how my face feels and looks since using it. I DO NOT using toners, I notice they always dry out my face and I don't like the way my skin feels after. I never rub at my eyes. And I always sleep on satin pillow caes, why? Because satin doesn't make your skin crease like cotton, even fine high thread count cotton. My skin is smooth and flawless. Since using these 2 products I no longer have little white bumps on my face like I used to get and I kid you not people always want to touch my face. I don't use much makeup but I definitely use a spf 50 on my face followed by a light coverup and loose powder and bronzer.
The lady who attacked you at the place, don't go back to her. She soounds like she's trying to get you to buy expensive products. But if you take care of your skin and find a few good products that make your skin feel good that's all that matters. DHC products aren't sold in stores but if you wear makeup I highly recommend the cleansing oil. I love it so much I buy it as gifts for people and once they try it they are hooked. You can find it online and as far as Phyilosophy products go they are everywhere but sometimes they have better deals on line.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006, 6:08 AM
I wouldn't say that the woman attacked me - she's given me a couple hours of her time at this point, and I haven't spent a dollar!
Last night, I went to the drugstore, and bought a cleanser, toner, and SPF 15 moisturizer, all from Neutrogena. I also bought a new set of makeup brushes, and some loose powder (which I'd never had before), and some new concealer.
I plan to go back to the woman for some eye cream, and also some eye shadow and base and eyeliner that she used on me that I loved, and also the foundation that she used b/c it matched my skin really well. That should use up my gift certificate, plus some, but not totally break the bank!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006, 3:24 PM