Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup

Haven't found the perfect foundation, but this one will do

I have used every kind of foundation there is to even out my complexion, from cheap drugstore buys, to the really pricey stuff. I started using Clinique foundations several years ago, and while they aren't perfect, they are the best I've found. I used the Even Better foundation for a couple of years and really liked it, but found out that it was not oil-free and was perhaps contributing to my already acne-prone skin. So the Clinique saleswoman suggested I try Perfectly Real. The color I use is a perfect match for my skin and it blends flawlessly. It doesn't feel or look heavy, even when you build up the coverage, and it doesn't melt off halfway through the day. With the use of a good primer, it is almost perfect. I will continue to use for the foreseeable future.

April 24, 2014

CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

This is THE Eye Cream

I've been using CeraVe washes and moisturizers for years at the recommendation of my dermatologist. For acne-prone, oily skin that is dried out due to prescription topicals, there just isn't another product line that meets the needs of my very temperamental, sensitive skin. I had been using Clinique All About Eyes for several years as my night eye cream, because while my T-zone is pretty oily, my eye skin stays pretty dry. I never liked how AAE felt under makeup, so I only used it at night, and I kept wishing i could find a good eye cream that would work day and night, without breaking me out or causing my eye makeup to slide off. Then CeraVe heard my prayers and released this Holy Grail of an eye cream. It's a keeper and a permanent part of my skin care regimen from now on.

April 24, 2014

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light

Beautiful, until it causes epic breakouts

I loved this product for two weeks. Thankfully, I bought the mini sized tube. It went on like a dream, smoothed out my lines and acne scars, and gave my foundation staying power and greater coverage. I was in love with this product. Until after two weeks I developed what I can only term as the most epic breakout of my life. I have had my acne reasonably under control for the last two years, and the primer is the only product I have added to my repertoire in the last several months. So there could be no other explanation than the primer caused this breakout. I literally had pimples covering my cheeks. I even had pimples where I never get them: around my eyes, lower jaw, and even my neck. All places I apply foundation, and thus primer. I can't say everyone will have this reaction, but be warned. I think there are just some acne-prone skins that can't tolerate that level of silicone clogging their pores. I am unfortunately one of those people.

January 26, 2011

Peter Thomas Roth AHA/BHA Acne Clearing Gel

In Love

I used this product for about six weeks. I saw about 60% clearing on my face, with 100% clearing on my forehead. I was only using it once a day, at night. Two weeks ago, I had a very bad reaction to a foundation primer that caused the worst breakout of my life (not hyperbole, it truly was the worst). I had pimples covering every surface of my skin. I increased usage to twice a day, always followed by a gentle moisturizer. While I did have a bit of itchiness and some minor peeling, after two weeks I can almost get away without wearing makeup, I should have been using this twice a day from the start. Truly the most effective product I've ever used (and I have used a lot).

January 26, 2011