Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skin care. Show all posts
How Important is Daily Sunscreen?

How Important is Daily Sunscreen?


I bet when the sun is out and the temperature is warm, you always remember to wear sunscreen, right? But did you know that you should be wearing sunscreen Every. Single. Day? This is especially important if you have rosacea, are taking medications that cause sun sensitivity, or if you are serious about your anti-aging program.

yellow and pink flowers with the words "How Important is Daily Sunscreen" superimposed

(This post is sponsored by Lexli. It may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)


yellow rectangle that says "what you need to know about UVA & UVB"

You've probably heard about UVA and UVB rays, but do you know what they are and what they do? They are ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun and they both damage skin, but in different ways. UVB rays cause sunburn and damage the skin's outer layers. The strength of these rays varies by season, location, and time of day. But keep in mind that even when it snows, you can get a sunburn because the UVB rays bounce off reflective surfaces (like snow and ice) and hit the skin twice. These rays do not penetrate glass well.

UVA rays aren't as intense as UVB rays, but they make up about 95% of UV radiation and they have the same intensity no matter the season or time. They are able to penetrate clouds and glass, so we get a lot more exposure. They also penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB, so they significantly contribute to aging.


yellow rectangle that says "why you need to wear sunscreen every day"

Just in case you skipped over that last paragraph, let me tell you again. UVA rays make up 95% of UV radiation and they have the same intensity no matter the season or time. They are able to penetrate clouds and glass - and they penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB. So we get a lot more exposure and they significantly contribute to aging. This is why it's important to wear sunscreen on a daily basis instead of just when you're outside in sunny weather.

Avoiding sunburn and decreasing your chances of developing skin cancer as well as slowing the aging process are good enough reasons to wear daily sunscreen, for sure. But there are other reasons it's important. If you have rosacea like me, then it's very likely that sun exposure worsens the condition. What may be a temporary flush can eventually become permanent redness. If exposure to sun is one of your triggers (meaning it causes the condition to flare up), it's important to recognize that and practice daily sun safety.

If you're taking medications that cause sun sensitivity your skin will be much more sensitive to UV rays and without protection, you can damage your skin in just minutes. You're going to want to protect your skin by wearing a daily sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15-30.

If you're spending hundreds or thousands of dollars a year on anti-aging products and/or procedures and not wearing daily sunscreen, you are throwing your money away. The sun is the major cause of premature aging. Taking a few minutes to apply sunscreen not only saves your skin, but it also saves your money!


yellow rectangle that says "how I practice sun safety - every day"

I have been practicing sun safety for almost 30 years. I do not ever try to get a tan (unless it's a sunless tan), and I wear sunscreen. If I'm at the beach, it's not during the hottest part of the day, and I'm always under an umbrella and/or wearing a hat, and wearing sunscreen with at least 50 SPF. I use a sunscreen on my face every day of the year. I wear it whether I'm leaving the house or not. But - I was often negligent about using sunscreen daily on my body. I always used it when I was going to be outside, but I just couldn't find one that I was willing to use everyday.

It's not because I didn't want to - it was because I couldn't find one I liked well enough to use every day. I had favorites for my face and for the beach, but for daily use I didn't want to feel greasy or smell like sunscreen. My nose is super sensitive and I can detect the faintest hint of that sunscreen smell. I tried moisturizers that contained SPF, but I still didn't like them and would stop using them after awhile. When Lexli offered to send me some of their Sunscreen Spray, I agreed to try it, but I'll be honest - from past experience with sunscreens, I didn't hold out much hope of continuing to use it on a daily basis, let alone actually liking it.

I was wrong.

bottle of Lexli sunscreen spray lying on yellow and pink flowers

I have used it everyday all summer. It's just part of my routine now. It has a great spray pump, it's easy to smooth out, and it absorbs quickly and completely. My skin only feels soft and smooth after applying - never greasy or tacky. The fragrance is very light and dissipates within a few minutes. I never get whiffs of it later on, and I never smell that "sunscreen" smell.

It has SPF 15, which is enough for me on most days. I don't get a lot of sun exposure on a daily basis, so this is enough to keep me safe while wandering around the house, going out to the mailbox or running quick errands. If I plan to be outside longer, I would use something with more SPF. If it came in SPF 30, I would snap it right up! (Note: Lexli does make a moisturizer with 30 SPF, but it also contains glycolic acid, which my skin does not tolerate well. But it's an option if you can use glycolic acid!)

bottle of Lexli sunscreen spray sitting in front of yellow & pink flowers

This is a chemical sunscreen and contains botanical fragrance extracts. I prefer mineral sunscreen for my face, so I'm only using this one on my body. My skin is sensitive to some fragrances, but this product has not caused any issues so far. I really, really like it.

It also doesn't affect my sunless tan. I've had some greasy sunscreens shorten the life of my faux tan and others have actually made the tan rub right off my skin. But I can apply (and reapply) the Lexli Sunscreen Spray without any issues at all. I definitely recommend it!


yellow rectangle that says "where to find more information"

Interested in the products I use on my face? Check out My Top 5 Favorite Sunscreens and My Morning Anti-aging Skincare Routine. Want to learn more about my sunless tanning routine? Check out my Sunless Tanning Series. To read more about rosacea, my Five Important Things I've Learned About Rosacea, Aloe Vera and Rosacea, and 5 Summer Beauty Tips for Sensitive Skin & Rosacea posts will provide more information.

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Kim
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5 Summer Beauty Tips for Sensitive Skin & Rosacea

5 Summer Beauty Tips for Sensitive Skin & Rosacea


Summer is here, and with warmer temperatures comes sweating - and with sweating comes beauty products melting right off your face. Am I right?

When it's hot out, I need as little on my skin as possible. For someone with "normal" skin, beauty routine changes are no big deal. But for people with rosacea and/or sensitive skin (me!), even a small change can bring on all sorts of trouble. Today I'm going to offer you five tips that work for me and hopefully they will help you avert a skin disaster!

(If you're interested in reading more about my rosacea diagnosis/journey, be sure to check out Five Important Things I've Learned About Rosacea.)

photo of flowers with an overlay that says "5 Summer Beauty Tips for Sensitive Skin and Rosacea"

(This post is sponsored by Lexli. It may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)





A light gel-based product can absorb quickly and completely, keeping your skin hydrated without feeling too heavy in the heat. When looking for these types of products you just want to be sure that there are no ingredients that can be drying, like alcohol. One of my favorites is the Moisture Intensifier Serum by Lexli.

Lexli Moisture Intensifier erum sitting in front of yellow and orange flowers

This one is especially great if you have rosacea or sensitive skin, because like all Lexli products, it has a base of soothing aloe vera. It also contains allantoin and panthenol for hydration, arnica to reduce inflammation, and glycosaminoglycans to help improve the structure of the skin. (Read my post about Aloe Vera and Rosacea.)



If your skin is very dry, or if you feel like you want a little more hydration at night, a lightweight oil-free moisturizer could be just the thing. It could be used alone or over the Moisture Intensifier Serum. I want my moisturizer to absorb well and not leave my skin feeling too tacky .

bottle of lotion sitting in front of yellow and orange flowers

Simply Hydration is a great choice. It does contain botanical fragrance extracts, so just be aware if you have a sensitivity to those. A fragrance-free option is CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion (the "PM" just means there is no sunscreen in it).



I would love to use a tinted moisturizer, but my skintone is uneven from the rosacea and most tinted moisturizers don't offer enough coverage. I know there are a ton of you out there who can relate to the struggle!

two bottle of liquid foundation makeup sitting in front of yellow and orange flowers

During the summer, I switch to a lightweight foundation, especially for daytime. I absolutely hate being out in hot weather and feeling like my foundation is sitting on my skin like a big blob of grease, or even worse - that my face is sliding off! I've been using Tarte's Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation (available in 30 shades) and CYO Lifeproof Long-Lasting Foundation (available in 14 shades). Both are lightweight with buildable coverage. I would say an initial application gives light coverage and you can build it to a medium coverage. For me, both work best without a primer and when applied with a makeup sponge.



Setting powders can make or break your look. The trick is to find one that helps smooth and set your look without making it look caked on. I've tried a ton, but my favorites are e.l.f. HD Loose Face Powder, IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Airbrush Powder, and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Skin Perfecting Micro Powder.

jar of powder sitting in front of yellow and orange flowers

I dip my Kat Von D Lock-It Setting Powder Brush into the powder, tap off the excess, and lightly dust over my face, concentrating on my T-zone where my makeup tends to wear off.

For under my eyes, I use either the e.l.f. Undereye Setting Powder or the Bye Bye Pores.



Can I just say how much I love setting sprays/facial spritzes? I don't ever want to be without my favorite aloe-based face toner - Tone & Balance. When I say toner, I'm not talking about a product that you wipe over the skin to remove any traces of makeup. This toner is non-irritating and you spritz it on after cleansing to calm and soothe the skin. I like that it gives me a nice base for all of my other skincare essentials. In warmer weather, I also like to use it as a refreshing mid-day mist. Spritz it on and stand in front of a fan for a minute - instant heat relief! Plus, it's the only spray I can use under my summer foundation that doesn't cause it to deteriorate quickly.

bottle of toner sitting in front of yellow and orange flowers

If I want a product to strictly use as a setting spray, I reach for MAC's Prep + Prime Fix+ (love the summer scents!) or Skindanavia Makeup Finishing Spray.


And those are my top five tips for creating a summer beauty routine that works well for sensitive skin/rosacea. I hope they help you keep your skin looking it's best!

pinnable image of flowers and several skincare products
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Kim
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OTC Treatment for Rosacea Symptoms: Prosacea®

OTC Treatment for Rosacea Symptoms: Prosacea®



This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Prosacea. All opinions are 100% mine.

Rosacea is a struggle. Even if your symptom flares are infrequent, they're still frustrating. No one wants to go to bed with clear skin and wake up with tiny pimples and/or red bumps. I'm sure that those of you who also suffer with rosacea can relate!

Overall, I'm happy with my skincare routine as a preventative measure, but I needed something to help heal my symptoms once they occur. At 57, I'm aggressively using anti-aging products, trying to look the best I can for my age, and rosacea symptoms don't fit in with that plan!

tube of Prosacea medicated rosacea gel lying on a wooden surface next to the product box

It's been about 11 months since my rosacea diagnosis and the most frustrating part is when a flare leaves me with raised red bumps (similar to a clogged pore). Those usually take weeks to go away and sometimes they leave behind a red mark in the form of a telangiectasia (AKA broken capillary or spider vein). Hello, massive amounts of concealer.

My most recent flare was just after we returned from Florida (probably the shock of leaving 80 degree weather and coming back to 30 degree weather). I had several tiny pimples that would pop up in different places on my face overnight and one of the larger red bumps that looks like a clogged pore. I started using Prosacea® right away and it only took 2-3 days to stop the pimples. The red bump took about 2 weeks, but that's a huge improvement over the amount of time it usually takes to heal.

before and after photo of facial cheek with rosacea flare treated with Prosacea medicated gel

In the photo above, the left side is before using Prosacea. You can see several broken capillaries and the red bump. The photo on the right is after using Prosacea for 2 weeks. You can see several broken capillaries (only laser treatment will get rid of those) and a faint pink mark where the red bump has healed. I attempted to take the photos in the same place with the same light, and they are not retouched - only resized.

tube of Prosacea gel lying on a wooden surface with the cap off

Prosacea is an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for rosacea symptoms and I picked it up at my local Walgreens. It's a clear, fragrance-free (thank you!) water-based gel that contains homeopathic sulphur 1X which is known to heal the tiny pimples and red bumps that occur with rosacea. It also contains soothing aloe vera.

close-up of Prosacea gel

After gently cleansing my face, I apply my lightweight water-based serums first, then a small amount of the Prosacea to the areas I need to treat. A little goes a long way, and it absorbs quickly and completely. I like to wait about 15 minutes to give it a chance to start working before applying any other products.

It's been so easy to add Prosacea to my routine! It works well with my other skincare products and makeup. For the first 2-3 of days, I only used it once daily since it can cause dryness. When I didn't notice any dryness, I increased my usage to twice daily which is where it seems to work best for me. I'm hoping that with continued use I will have less flares - and that when they do occur, they will be of shorter duration.

tube of Prosacea gel standing on a wooden surface with the product box in the background

If you have rosacea symptoms (redness, pimples, red bumps, etc) and are interested in giving Prosacea a try, you can find it locally (in the First Aid aisle) as well as online. You can find a list of stores that carry it at Prosacea.com. If you use the Ibotta app, you can get $2 back on a Prosacea purchase.

I'd love to know if you give it a try and how well it works for you! Just leave a comment here or connect with me on Instagram!











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Kim
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Rejuvenate Your Skin with Nurysh Lyft 2.0 (and a discount code!!)

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Nurysh Lyft 2.0 (and a discount code!!)


Anyone out there wishing their skin looked better? I see you, girl! We all have our own definition of "looking our best" and for me, it means looking as good as I can for my current age. I’m not trying to look 30, but I want to be my best version of 57.

I tried Botox around ten years ago, but I wasn’t impressed with my results at that time. I may give it another shot in the future, but let’s face it (pun intended) - whether it's cost, upkeep, or results - it’s not for everyone. I have an arsenal of skin care serums and creams that have improved the look of my skin, but I'd like to turn it up a notch. Who’s with me?

Box containing the Nurysh LYFT 2.0 Skin Rejuvenation Device and all of it's accessories

(Thank you to Nurysh for sponsoring this post. The opinions in this post are based on my experience with the product and are 100% my own.)

One thing I hadn’t tried was a home facial toning/rejuvenation device like the LYFT 2.0 by Nurysh. I was aware of science behind the device, so I was really excited to test it out. How it works (in basic terms): LYFT focuses four low power beams deep into the dermis. The revolutionary and patented BIOWAVE technology stimulates dermal activity (tightening of collagen fibers and increasing new collagen production). The skin becomes firmer and more supple, and fine lines and wrinkles are reduced.

Lid of the LYFT 2.o Skin Rejuvenation Device box listing the benefits it offers.

Some of the benefits that may be seen with regular use:
  • reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
  • improvement of skin tone and texture
  • tightened skin
  • balance of uneven pigmentation and redness
  • reduction in puffiness
  • minimization of pore size and breakouts
  • reduced appearance of scars

The device comes in a sturdy box, and includes a protective cap, charging/storage stand, charging cord/adapter, eye protection goggles, a few cotton pads for cleaning the probe, and an instruction booklet.

The LYFT 2.0 Skin Rejuvenation Device sitting in it's storage stand on a table with the charging cord and protective eye goggles nearby.

One of my favorite features is that you can customize the treatments to best suit your skin needs. There are single functions: Cleanse, Deep Cleanse, Nutrition, Nutrition Plus, Anti-Aging, Anti-Acne, and Face Lifting - all of which can be used on their own. But I’m a multi-tasking girl and I prefer to get the most bang for my buck, so I like the multi-function treatments. (*my favorites)

  • Deep Cleanse + Face Lifting
  • Nutrition + Face Lifting
  • Nutrition Plus + Face Lifting
  • Nutrition Plus + Anti-Aging
  • Anti-Aging + Face Lifting
  • Anti-Acne + Face Lifting
  • Nutrition Plus + Anti-Aging + Face Lifting*
  • Nutrition Plus + Anti-Acne + Face Lifting* 

Close-up of the LYFT 2.0 Skin Rejuvenation Device lying on a table.

It’s so easy to use! You just power it on, chose your treatment(s), and slowly move it around your face. You wear the goggles for any treatments involving the LED lights (anti-aging, anti-acne). Most treatments last 5-10 minutes making it easy to incorporate into your skincare routine. If you're a visual learner, there’s a short instructional video that explains how to use the device.

I have a few problem areas that I focused on: nasolabial folds (marionette lines), jawline, and the front of my neck. The front of my neck is an on-going battle because not only has it lost firmness and elasticity due to aging, but I had two cervical spine surgeries where they used a frontal approach. Those surgeries left me with two horizontal scars (thoughtfully placed in the creases of my neck), and loosened skin.

I've been using the LYFT daily for the past three and a half weeks - which is the minimum amount of time needed to see results. Below are my before and after photos - even I was surprised to see the difference! I took the before and after photos in the same place with the same lighting - and I attempted to recreate the same position/pose. The photos have not been retouched other than trying to even out the lighting.

These photos show my "marionette lines" and you can also see a bit of the "orange peel" texture on my chin as well as the pores on my cheek. The depth of the lines has definitely decreased and the texture of the skin on my cheeks looks smoother (pores less prominent).

Before and after photos of nasolabial folds after using LYFT 2.0 for 3.5 weeks.

The photos below show the front of my neck. You can see the two scars as well as the loose skin and crepe-y texture. In the after photo there is a marked improvement in not just the texture, but the skin is visibly tightened!

Before and after photos of front of neck - after using the LYFT 2.0 device for 3.5 weeks.

Another benefit I've noticed is that my foundation seem to go on more easily, looks smoother and stays in place a bit better. A couple of weeks ago, we were at the Tampa Zoo from 10:30am to 1:30pm in 80+degree weather. It was very hot and humid - my face was damp and "glowing" (with perspiration!). When I got to our car, I expected to see my makeup pretty much ruined - but I was shocked to see that it looked the same as it did when I applied it that morning! I used all of the same products that I normally use so the only difference was that I had been using the LYFT device.

A reminder: Be sure you've removed the protective cap before starting a treatment. The cap is clear, so it's easy to forget it's there - especially when you do your treatments at night when you're tired. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.) Yes, I've done a complete 10 minute treatment with the cap on. More than once. I think I'm going to put a brightly-colored sticker on the cap so it doesn't happen again. It would be nice if the cap wasn't clear - maybe a bright color as a visual reminder to remove it before starting your treatment.

DISCOUNT CODE: Now let's talk cost. The kit I described above is priced at $159.95 AND Nurysh has been kind enough to offer a code for my readers to receive 20% off - bringing the cost down to $127.96! Just enter 20KAPROMO at checkout to receive the discount!

I'm thrilled with my results and can't wait to see if improvements will continue over time.

Infographic showing before and after photos and the Nurysh LYFT 2.0 Skin Rejuvenation Device

If you decide to give the Nurysh LYFT 2.0 a try, I'd love to hear about your results. Post a comment here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat! And don't forget - you can also follow Nurysh on TwitterFacebook and Instagram to see more about their products!

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Kim
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I love the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser from La Roche-Posay!

I love the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser from La Roche-Posay!


Have you read my latest morning and evening anti-aging skin care routines? If you have, then you know that one of the cleansers I've been using for the past several months is from La Roche-Posay. I want/need a cleanser that doesn't dry out my skin, clog my pores, cause breakouts, or irritate my sensitivities.

bottle of Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, blue washcloth, and grey konjac sponge sitting on a wooden surface

(This post may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)

Their Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser has quickly become one of my favorite cleansers of all time. I just really love the way it makes my skin feel! It's so gentle and my skin feels soft and hydrated.

close-up of Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser on a grey konjac sponge, with a blue washcloth in the background

It's similar to CeraVe's Hydrating Facial Cleanser in that it contains ceramides and is a no-foam cleanser (and also in price). However, the Toleriane Cleanser has a creamier consistency and leaves my skin feeling softer and smoother than the CeraVe cleanser.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau (La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water), Glycerin, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polysorbate 60, Ceramide NP, Niacinamide, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Betaine, Disodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Panthenol, T-Butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol

bottle of Toleriane Hydrating Gentle cleanser on a floral background

Another thing I really like about this cleanser is that it is fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, soap-free, and sulfate-free - making it perfect for my sensitive skin.

I dampen my face and apply one pump of the cleanser to my entire face and decollete using my hands. Then I leave it on my face for 2-3 minutes before rinsing away with a soft cloth and warm water. I use this cleanser every morning, and occasionally in the evening. If I use it in the evening, I always remove my makeup first.

bottle of Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, grey konjac sponge, and blue washcloth on a wooden surface

Since using it, I've had less dryness from the tretinoin, no breakouts or clogged pores, and it doesn't aggravate my rosacea. I'm so pleased with it that when I need more moisturizer, I plan to try the Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. I think it's similar to the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizer that I like, so I want to see how they compare.

pinnable image of Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser on a floral background

Have you tried the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser? What's your favorite cleanser for sensitive skin?

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Kim
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Aloe Vera and Rosacea

Aloe Vera and Rosacea


How many of you keep an aloe plant in your kitchen? Or use aloe vera gel on a sunburn? It stops the sting almost immediately, right? Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory healing properties, is hydrating and absorbs well. So it's not surprising that it's found in many skin care products.

aloe vera plant with an overlay that says "aloe vera and rosacea"

(This post is sponsored by Lexli. It may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)

You may remember that earlier this year, I posted about being diagnosed with rosacea (subtype 2). This presented me with a whole new set of skin care concerns - as if being over-50 with sensitive, breakout-prone skin wasn't enough! After several months of only using skin care products approved by my dermatologist, I was apprehensive about reintroducing products and/or trying new ones. I've always been conscious of ingredients, but now I'm even more so because I don't want any flare-ups.

Aloe vera seemed like not only a "safe" ingredient for me but also one that could provide some much needed benefits to my skin.

bottle of Lexli aloe-based Tone and Balance Facial Toner sitting on a red chair

If you've seen my past skin care routines, then you know that I had been using a witch hazel toner after cleansing. It was one of the products I had to stop using with the rosacea flare-up, and I was concerned about adding it back into my routine. I considered just not using a toner at all, but I do like one, especially when I feel it's providing a benefit to my skin. Then I discovered Lexli Tone & Balance Aloe Vera Face Toner.

Lexli skin care products have a base of pharmaceutical-grade aloe vera. Pharmaceutical-grade aloe is 99.9% pure aloe, while cosmetic-grade aloe may only be 70% aloe. The toner also has silk amino acids (penetrates upper layer of skin and hydrates), soluble collagen (humectant), allantoin (skin protectant), and vitamin B5 (increases elasticity and regeneration, lessens scarring) - all of which are beneficial to skin. Unfortunately, it also contains fragrance. I would have preferred that it not have any added fragrance, but since it was listed as the last ingredient, I was hopeful that there wouldn't be a problem.

back label of a bottle of Lexli toner, showing directions for use and ingredient list

The ingredient list on the bottle (in photo above) shows the key ingredients. The complete ingredient list can be found on the Lexli website:
Organic, Pharmaceutical-Grade Aloe Vera, Purified Water, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate-20, Sorbitol, Silk Amino Acids, Soluble Collagen, Allantoin, Vitamin B5, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance

For the past two months, I've been spritzing it on my face and décolleté both morning and evening, right after cleansing. It is a clear liquid, and comes in a clear spray (pump) bottle. There is an herbal scent (it reminds me of a man's aftershave/cologne), but it dissipates quickly.

Right before I had back surgery in early July, I had a rosacea flare-up that left me with several hard red bumps on my cheeks. I think the stress from back pain and the upcoming surgery was the trigger. It usually takes 6-8 weeks for these types of bumps to go away completely. This time, I consistently used the Lexli toner twice daily, and within 2-3 weeks the bumps were gone. I credit the toner because it was the only different product in my routine.

Five different Lexli skincare products lying on a wooden table
Lexli products

The toner is offered in 3 sizes: 1 oz. travel size priced at $5.99, 4 oz. for $17.50, and 16 oz. for $65. I have the 4 oz. size, and after about two months of using it twice daily, there is still 2 oz. left.

I'm so pleased with the results that I've decided that I am definitely making this part of my skin care routine from now on. If you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or are just looking for a nice hydrating toner, I would recommend giving the Lexli Tone & Balance Aloe Vera Face Toner a try.

Be sure to check out my other posts about rosacea:
OTC Treatment for Rosacea Symptoms: Prosacea
Five Important Things I've Learned About Rosacea

pinnable infographic with a picture of an aloe vera plant an a pink and white heading that says "aloe vera and rosacea"

Do you use a toner? Which one works well for you?

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Kim
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My Evening Anti-Aging Skincare Routine - August 2018

My Evening Anti-Aging Skincare Routine - August 2018


Recently, I shared my updated morning skincare routine, and today, I'm sharing my updated evening anti-aging skincare routine.

If you haven't read my updated morning routine yet, let me tell you a little about my recent skincare issues. (If you have already read that post, you can just skip to below the first photo.) In March 2018, my dermatologist gave me a diagnosis of rosacea, subtype 2. (If you want to read more about that, check out my post: Five Important Things I've Learned About Rosacea or All About My Skin.) That meant I had to stop my skincare routine except for a prescription cleanser, First Aid Beauty Anti-Redness Serum, and CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion - until the rosacea was controlled. I suffered some anxiety when I realized I wasn't going to be able to use my anti-aging products - being most upset about losing all of the progress I had made with tretinoin.

Infographic showing a pink flower with a text overlay saying "P.M. anti-aging skincare routine for younger-looking skin"

(This post may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)

1) I've always been a two-step gal, so if I have makeup on in the evening, I remove that before I cleanse my face. If I'm wearing a full face of makeup, I use Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water for waterproof makeup (the blue cap) and an exfoliating cotton pad to remove it. If I only have on tinted moisturizer, I will use a makeup removing towelette like Garnier SkinActive Micellar Remover Wipes (pink) or Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes.

Three different sizes of Pure & Pretty Clarifying Cleanser sitting on a wooden table with purple flowers behind them
Pure & Pretty Clarifying Cleanser from I Feel Pretty Products

2) Cleansing is next, and I switch up my cleansers in the evening. Every third night I use the prescription sulfacetamide face wash prescribed by my dermatologist. That's the "schedule" that allows it to work without drying out my skin too much. On the other nights, I have three cleansers I choose from: Pure & Pretty Clarifying Cleanser, Acure Sensitive Facial Cleanser (now called Seriously Soothing Cleansing Cream), or the La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser. I apply with a konjac sponge, and remove with a soft washcloth and warm water.

3) While my skin is still slightly damp, I spritz Lexli Tone & Balance Aloe Vera Face Toner over my face, neck, and décolleté. This is a new product for me, and I like it a lot. I feel like it has helped keep the rosacea calm, and it doesn't dry out my skin. (There will be a review coming soon!)

Bottle of The Ordinary's Argireline 10% Solution sitting on a wooden table with the product box in the background
Argireline 10% Solution from The Ordinary

4) Next I apply the Argireline 10% Solution from The Ordinary. As in the morning, I don't really measure this, I just drop some on my fingertip and apply to my forehead, the lines between my eyes (near the bridge of my nose), crow's feet, and nasolabial folds.

4a) Every third night, I apply tretinoin to my face, neck, and décolleté. I'm moving very slowly with this, keeping an eye out for any irritation/rosacea flare-ups. After about 6-8 weeks at this schedule (which is soon), I will increase to every second night.

A bottle of Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum from The Ordinary sitting on a wooden table with the product box in the background
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% from The Ordinary

5) After about 30 minutes, I apply Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum from The Ordinary. I use about 5-6 drops, applied with damp hands to my face, neck, and décolleté.

A bottle of Lexli A-Firm-Ative Anti-Aging Peptide Serum lying on a wooden table
A-Firm-Ative Anti-Aging Peptide Serum from Lexli Skincare

6) Now I apply Lexli A-Firm-Ative Anti-Aging Peptide Serum. I place two pumps of serum into damp palms and apply to my face, neck, and décolleté. Other options would be The Ordinary's plain Buffet Serum or their Matrixyl 10% + HA.

I usually start my evening skincare routine fairly early in the evening - several hours before I go to bed. I take advantage of this and apply more than one moisturizer.

Two different sized bottles of Pretty Pearlfection Cream sitting on a wooden table with purple flowers in the background.
Pretty Pearlfection Cream from I Feel Pretty Products

7) The first moisturizer I apply is the Pretty Pearlfection Cream. I use a pea-sized amount with damp hands to my face, neck, and décolleté. I've been using this product for many years, and not only does it moisturize, but it also keeps breakouts at bay. When I do get a breakout, it definitely shortens the healing time.

8) Next I spot treat any red areas with First Aid Beauty Anti-Redness Serum. This contains colloidal sulfur, which is great for rosacea. If you don't have rosacea or other redness, you wouldn't need this product.

Bottle (and box) of CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion sitting on a blue-patterned surface with a wooden wall behind
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

9) After an hour or so, I apply CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. I use about two pumps and apply to my face, neck, and décolleté. This is another long-time product for me. I love that it is lightweight, but yet provides a good amount of hydration.

clear jar of white cream sitting on a wooden table with a silver lid nearby
Revital-Eyes Rejuvenating Cream from Lexli Skincare

10) Just as in the morning, I apply Lexli Revital-Eyes Rejuvenating Cream under my eyes at night. I don't think it's always necessary to have a special product for the undereye area, but I seem to need a little extra "something" for moisture. If I don't use the Rejuvenating Cream, I apply watermelon or rosehip seed oil.

11) Right before I go to bed I apply the last moisturizer - Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream (I prefer the fragrance-free). I can definitely still feel this on my skin in the morning, so it's great at hydration as well as plumping fine lines.

Tube (and product box) of Clinique's Pep-Start Pout Restoring Night Mask lying on a wooden table
Clinique Pep-Start Pout Restoring Night Mask

12) And let's not forget the lips! I use two products on my lips to help with plumping as well as keeping them hydrated. The first is GrandeLIPS Hydrating Lip Plumper (in clear). I usually apply that one near the beginning of my skincare routine to give it a chance to absorb. Then right before I go to bed, I apply Clinique Pep-Start Pout Restoring Night Mask. It's so hydrating it lasts until morning!

The Lexli products I mentioned are new to my routine, and they are formulated with a base of pharmaceutical-grade aloe vera for it's anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties as well as it's ability to penetrate the skin. So they're great for someone with sensitive skin or rosacea. I'll be doing a review soon!

Infographic showing a pink flower with a text overlay saying "P.M. anti-aging skincare routine for younger-looking skin"

Subscribers/members will have access to a printable version of my complete a.m. and p.m. skincare routines (including suggestions for alternate products) in the members-only section of the blog. If you're not a member and would like to be, you can sign up here.

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Kim
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Hyaluronic Acid: Is it part of your skincare routine?

Hyaluronic Acid: Is it part of your skincare routine?


There are many actives in my anti-aging routine, but sometimes, I have the need to just use a serum that will provide hydration - like when I have a rosacea flare, if my skin is particularly sensitive, or even if I just want a boost of moisture.

One product that is perfect for this is the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary.

A bottle of Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from the Ordinary lying on a table with the box beside it

(This post may contain affiliate links which were added to make it easier for you to find the items. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). You are free to use the links or not - if you do, I thank you!)

You guys know that I'm a big fan of The Ordinary's products because they provide quality ingredients at an affordable price. Many of their products that I use contain hyaluronic acid in addition to other good things for my skin. Their Hyaluronic Acid + B5 product is no different.

Most hyaluronic acid (HA) used in skincare products is a high-molecular weight HA that is too large to actually penetrate the skin. It works by sitting on the surface of the skin and drawing moisture from within the skin to make the surface feel hydrated. The Ordinary's product uses low-, medium-, and high-molecular weight HA and a HA crosspolymer, so it offers hydration at multiple levels. Vitamin B5 in the serum also increases surface hydration.

A photo of the side of the product box showing the ingredients for Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Panthenol, Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract, Glycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.

The HA serum comes packaged in a frosted clear glass one ounce bottle with a dropper cap. The serum itself is clear, and of a serum-like consistency. It's easy to apply, and absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling slightly tacky.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary shown in the dropper as a clear serum

When I apply the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, I use about 5 drops, applied with damp hands to a damp face. I don't typically use it on a daily basis, and when I do use it, it's only with one or two other products at night, so I've never had an issue with pilling.  I used to use it on the nights I did derma-rolling, but I don't derma-roll since my rosacea diagnosis. The only reason I don't use it on a regular basis is that I use other products that contain HA.

A photo of the side of the box with instructions for using Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary

I think it's a fabulous product that would be especially good for someone who wants either minimal actives added to their routine or wants to increase the amount of HA for their skin. It is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free, nut-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.

A pinnable image of the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary with the bottle lying on a table next to the product box and a text box above that says "Product Review: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 - The Ordinary"

Is hyaluronic acid part of your skincare routine?

Don't forget - you can shop my favorite products here! My own shop - I Feel Pretty Products is also now connected to the blog.

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Kim
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