Crise De La Trentaine Ou Quarter Life Crisis

Coucou tout le monde, 

Ceci est mon premier post en français et ne traitant pas de beauté ou de maquillage.

Je viens de fêter mes 28 ans, de finir mon master, je n'ai pas d'emploi et je suis célibataire. Savez-vous comment je me sens ? Vide, vide d'existence. J'ai l'impression que je n'ai rien accompli dans ma vie. Est ce vraiment ma faute ? 

La société d'aujourd'hui nous mets une pression terrible pour qu'à 30 ans nous soyons diplômés, ayons le poste de nos rêves, soyons mariés et ayons des enfants. A vrai dire, cette société tellement pressante veut même qu'on atteigne tous ces buts avant 30 ans. Comme si 30 ans était le dernier délai ! Mais si nous avons pas atteint ces buts avant ce fameux délai sommes nous des loosers, des ratés de la vie ? 

Certaines personnes ont réussi à atteindre tous ces objectifs. Une amie, que j'envie terriblement, a rencontré "l'homme de sa vie" en première année de fac, s'est fiancée après sa licence, mariée après son master, a eu son premier bébé après son stage professionnel et a trouvé son job parfait après son congé maternité et tout cela avant ses 27 ans!! Waouu!! Quelle vie tellement planifiée.

Moi, voyez-vous, je suis incapable de faire des choses autant planifiées. J'ai commencé par des études en droit, au bout de quelques années j'ai constaté que cela ne me plaisait vraiment pas et que je n'avais pas envie de faire carrière dans ce domaine. Alors, j'ai changé d'orientation. Il a fallu que je recommence tout. Comme, j'ai passé une bonne partie de ma vie concentré sur mes études, je n'ai jamais eu le temps de nouer une vraie relation amoureuse. 

Aujourd'hui, je suis finalement diplômée :) Je suis fin prête à avoir une relation sérieuse et je recherche activement un emploi.  Cependant, cette foutue société m'a collé une étiquette de ratée de la vie sur le front. Depuis mes parents jusqu'à mes voisins, ils me voient tous ainsi. 

J'en ai marre de cette situation. Pourquoi cette société nous impose t elle des règles autant stupides ? Faut il vraiment avoir tout accompli dans notre vie avant nos 30 ans ? N'est il pas possible d'avoir accompli tout cela à 40 ans ou même plus ? Dans mon entourage, je vois de plus en plus de personnes qui savent ce qu'ils attendent de la vie seulement à 30 ans et des poussières et les réalisent fin de la trentaine. 

Avec les années, nos modes de vie ont changé, mais pas cette stupide société ! C'est dur d'être fraichement diplômé et de dépendre encore financièrement de nos parents. C'est déjà très pénible pour nous alors ne nous rendez pas cette situation encore plus dur en nous dénigrant, jugeant ou encore en nous faisant part de vos soit disant conseils sensé nous faire mûrir. Nous sommes mûrs, responsable  et ambitieux. Il faut juste que cette société nous donne une chance de prouver ce que nous valons.
Voilà, c'était juste mon coup de tête ! J'avais envie de crier ce que j'ai sur le coeur et internet est l'endroit idéal ou on peut s'exprimer librement tout en restant anonyme :)

DIY Moisturizing Serum - SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel - Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Aloe Vera and Vitamin B5

Hello Lovelies, 

So this post is about creating a moisturizing serum. I really like the brand SkinCeuticals. They have really good products like Retinol 0.3, Daily Moisture, C E Ferulic and mainly their Hydrating B5 Gel serum <3

Hydrating B5 Gel is one of the best serum I have ever used. Once upon a time, it used to be my favourite serum. Now it is SkinActives Collagen Serum, but it deserves another post <3

Today we are going to DIY the Hydrating B5 Gel serum. 

Let's look at the composition of this serum :

Aqua (water), glycerin, phenoxyethanol, sodium hyaluronate, calcium pantothenate, sodium benzonate, sodium PCA, disodium edta, urea, trehalose, polyquaternium-51

The first ingredient is of course water, then glycerin, conservative and solvent, hyaluronic acid, B5 vitamin, another conservative, an humectant, a chelating, another humectant and other conservatives. 

Ingredients are so simple, right?? but the price !!! Jesus!! It is so costly!! In Europe, it is 56 euros. 

I don't know you, but I cannot afford that mainly when I know that can make this serum by myself. 

If you want the pure version of this serum, here is the recipe for 30 ml serum with 1% B5 and 1% Hyaluronic acid : 

- 28 ml distilled water

- 1 ml glycerin

- 0.30 gr hyaluronic acid powder

- 0.30 gr B5 vitamin powder

- 5 drops of liquid preservative ( I use aromazone cosgard)

Mix the powders with water, then add glycerin and preservative.

If this version is not enough moisturizing then increase the B5 percentage. For 2 % it is 0.6 gr and for 3 % it is 0.9 gr.

Store this serum in the fridge and keep it for one month or maximum two.

Now can I give you my improved version of this serum ?? Please, please, please!??! Yeah?? Ok, then here is the new recipe : 

- 13.5 ml of pure rose water (anti aging)

- 13.5 ml of pure ylang ylang water (revitalizing)

- 1 ml aloe vera gel (nourishing)

- 1 ml glycerin (humectant)

- 0.30 gr hyaluronic acid powder

- 0.30 gr B5 vitamin powder

- 6 drops of liquid collagen (moisturizing, anti aging)

- 5 drops of liquid preservative

Again store this serum in the fridge (conservation max 2 months).

It is very important to add a preservative. Otherwise, you cannot keep longer this serum. Here is a list of preservatives : http://www.gardenofwisdom.com/preservatives.html

Please try this serum and let me know what you think of it. Also, please follow my blog if you want more DIY recipes.

Update

Hello my lovelies,

I am so sorry not to update my blog. First, I had my light eczema allergy and then I was sick... So I wasn't able to upload new posts.
But now I am feeling better and I will post more :)
I am going to upload new pictures, review more products (skin actives, clarins, avène) and also start doing make up looks <3 <3

Bisous

Glycolic Acid Home Peel Experience - Allergy

Hello Lovelies,

Sorry, I didn't upload pictures of my peel because I had an allergy... I developped a kind of eczema. It is very light. This reaction happens when the skin is too irritated. This time, I had a lactic peel. (instead of a glycolic one).. and I am lactose intolerant... so maybe this is the reason of my allergy. Anyway, my doctor prescribed me  an hydrocortisone cream.

Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm - Review

Hello Lovelies, 

Here I am to review another product. It is one of my all time favourite lip balm. I already told you I like Nuxe (even though I was really disappointed by their moisturizing serum). Their lip balm Reve de Miel has won many beauty awards. First, I thought it was just a hype but after trying it I am convinced :)

Source : Glowing Life 777

What they say

For Dry or Chapped Lips

NUXE Reve de Miel Baume Levres Ultra-Nourrissant Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm is a repairing, nourishing lip balm with a rich, delicious texture to restore suppleness and comfort to dry and chapped lips.

A must-have product: one is sold every 28 seconds throughout the world*! *Source: Sell-in, November 2009-October 2010.

Precious benefits for your skin:
With its formula tested in extremely cold conditions in Canada, comfort is restored to chapped lips (96%**). They are nourished (82%**), repaired (96%**) and protected (91%**). **User test carried out under dermatological supervision on 22 volunteers over 28 days in extreme climate conditions in Canada - % of volunteers who agreed with the claim.

Star active ingredients:
NUXE Reve de Miel Baume Levres Ultra-Nourrissant Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm nourishes, repairs, soothes and protects the lips with Honey, Plant Oils, Shea Butter and Grapefruit Essence.

Directions for use: In winter and summer, apply NUXE Reve de Miel Baume Levres Ultra-Nourrissant Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm to your lips and contour as often as required,


What I say

Texture : 
It's a balm then it's thick. It's easy to apply. As you can see, my jar is almost empty :(  But it just proves that I love this product :)

Smell 

It's a lemon/grapefruit smell. It is pleasant, but I prefer the smell of their body cream or their huile prodigieuse. 

Opinion

This lipbalm contains natural ingredients (but it's not an organic product) and this is one of the reason why I purchased this balm. My dry and chapped lips really like it. It nourishes, moisturizes and heals my lips without letting them glossy (which I don't like for a lipbalm).

I hate the container. It is not hygienic and not practicle. I mean, it's hard to use it during the day because you have to use your fingers... and it is not always possible to wash your hands. This is the reason why I apply this balm heavily on my lips only before going to bed. And the next morning my lips are so plumpy and soft. 

Price 

12 euros. Ok it's pricey for a lipbalm but seriously it lasts many months!! I used it almost one year. 

Would I buy it again

Oh yes!!

Glycolic Acid Home Peel Experience - Update and Pictures

Hello Lovelies, 

Tomorrow I am having my second peel. I just wanna show you my recent picture after one week. 

Picture 1 : 2 or 3 days after the peel

Source : Glowing Life 777

Picture 2 : 7-8 days after the peel 

Source : Glowing Life 777

As you can see, the pimples are killed but the scars are still here. I hope my second peel will help to diminish these scars. Please guys if you know a good cream or home remedies to fade scars let me know...

Anyway, I will update my glycolic acid peel journey soon.

SkinActives Bright I Cream - Review

Hello Lovelies,

So it's been a few weeks that I am using Skin Actives' eye cream : Bright I Cream. I must say that even if it's been only 3 weeks that I am using it, I am very satisfied by this cream. Honestly, it's one of the best eye cream that I have used so far. I had wonderful results so I am very excited to talk about this eye cream.

So without waiting, let's start the review !!

Source : Glowing Life 777

What they say : 

Let’s have a look at the actives in our Bright-I cream. Some of the actives are present in other Skin Actives products, promoting skin nutrition, (sea kelp bioferment, hyaluronic acid, natural active peptides), and synthesis and protection of protein (palmitoyl tetrapeptide) and structural polysaccharides, and cell replication (like epidermal growth factor, retinyl acetate). The delicate skin in the eye area is already thinner than in the rest of the face, and it gets thinner with age, so all of these actives will prevent further losses. Thinner skin is also why capillaries are more visible, contributing to the appearance of dark under-eye circles. Others actives have general antioxidant properties but also display specific properties that makes them especially useful for the delicate eye area.

Sea Kelp Bioferment, caffeine, retinyl acetate, hesperidin methyl chalcone, natural active peptides, Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins, Sodium Hyaluronate, chrysin, epidermal growth factor (EGF), antioxidant booster, liquid crystal, glutathione, Pal-GQPR (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide),

Retinyl acetate, a retinoid and a form of Vitamin A, will accelerate skin renewal, preventing the formation of milia and “erasing” wrinkles

Caffeine is a great active: it promotes efflux of sodium, promotes fat mobilization, has analgesic properties, antioxidant activity and more. One of my favorite aspects of caffeine is that it promotes post-replication repair of DNA, one reason why caffeine helps prevent cancer.

Chrysin activates the enzyme uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT1A1) that leads to the degradation of bilirubin, a product of breakdown of blood hemoglobin that may have been released by broken capillaries. It also suppresses histamine release, and “puffy” eyes are a very common complaint.

Lecithin is in this formulation to provide lipids your skin needs. Lecithin taken orally seems to help decrease serum cholesterol, but it does not work when injected into lipomas (a benign tumor made of adipose tissue), and it will not make your fatty thighs go thin. However, some Skin Actives clients say it works well on fat deposits under the eyes. Remember that topical application of caffeine can decrease the thickness of subcutaneous fat, so even if lecithin does not work for you, our Bright-I cream may. If you are desperate (it is always a bad idea to feel desperate when making any decision, even buying skin care), try our cellulite control cream

Hesperidin methyl chalcone is an effective antioxidant that decreases capillary fragility and permeability. This does not mean that you should feel free to rub your eyes when you are sleepy, rubbing eyes is a “no-no”.

Glutathione, a great natural antioxidant that fulfills crucial roles in our body, is always helpful, especially in polluted environments like a big city or the highway.

If you have dark under-eye circles caused by broken capillaries, it will improve them or clear them completely (the same properties will help erase bruising caused by any cause, because the actives will help clear the tell-tales signs of blood leaks).

If your dark circles are hereditary and caused by melanin pigmentation, our Bright-I cream will not help you much, but you could try our skin brightening cream. 

Usage : Use Bright I Cream once or twice daily on clean, dry skin around around the eyes and on the eye lids. 


What I say :

Texture
It is a nice creamy texture. It is light, then very easy to apply. Also, it is quickly absorbed by the skin. It can be used as a day eye cream because it doesn't make the skin greasy. But it is not enough rich for a night eye cream (this is the only minus of the cream).

Source : Glowing Life 777

Source : Glowing Life 777

Smell
Hum... it's a chemical smell, not really pleasant.

Opinion
So the composition of this cream is absolutely fantastic. It contains so many good ingredients like : hyaluronic acid (for hydratation), collagen (for hydratation and prevent wrinkles), natural active peptides (promote the production of collagen and lessen eye's expressions so prevent the formation of wrinkles), sea kelp bioferment (nourish the skin), caffeine (antioxydant and makes the skin firm), retinyl acetate (which is a retinoid then the best and proven anti wrinkle ingredient), glutathione (the best antioxydant and a skin whitenner), avocado oil (nourish the skin and is one of the best anti aging oil) and many more... I cannot count the number of ingredients and all of them are super good ingredients !!
I was looking for an effective eye cream  but at a reasonable price. A friend of mine recommended me Skin Actives' Skin Brightenning face cream. After reading some reviews and their website, I decided to pick up some of their products. This eye cream was one of these products. I purchased this cream with no expectation.
I have dark circles and wrinkles. I have these deep dark circles from my puberty and I know that the only thing that can work on me is hyaluronic acid injections... And my wrinkles... hum... I have wrinkles since ever. I mean when I was 15 I've already had wrinkles. And the strangest part is that now I have less wrinkles.. Yes truly, at 27, I have less wrinkles than at 15. But this is not (only) because of this cream, no. I am just describing my eye area.
So let me sum up, my eye contour area is dry, with dark circles and wrinkles.
It's been 3 weeks that I am using this eye cream. My eyes are more hydrated, bright, luminous and I have less wrinkles :) :) I am not telling you that all my wrinkles have disappeared. No! I have less wrinkles. My skin is more firm. My dark circles have diminished (they are not gone, this is impossible is my case). But let's say that even if I have a bad night, my eyes are bright and I look less tired. My eyelashes are thicker and longer. So overall, I have good results with this cream.
My mom also tried it. She has heavy dark circles and wrinkles. I can assure you that now she has less dark circles. She still cannot see any difference on her wrinkles, but the eye contour is more hydrated and firm.
I have taken some photos of my eye contour. In 2 months time, I think I will re review this eye cream and I can upload the photos before and after to see if  there are any differences.


Price
17.50 for 0.5 ounce. Let me tell you that this is very cheap for the quality of this cream. Just look at the ingredients !!


Would I buy it again
Yes, yes and yes. Next I will also purchase the Bright I serum for night use.

Glycolic Acid Home Peel - Precautions, Skin Care Before And After The Peel

Hi Lovelies,

Glycolic, lactic, mandelic, salicylic or even TCA are powerful acids. They exfoliate, sometimes burn, the first layer of your skin in order to stimulate skin renew. These ingredients can irritate and make your skin sensitive. So there are many precautions to take to avoid side effects and complications in peeling. 

What are the risks of a chemical peel ?

- Skin infections (if you have a peel on an irritated skin)
- Hyperpigmentation (for dark skinned people)

Never have a peel if :

- you have lymphatic system disorders

- you take oral medication againts acne (like retinoids)

- you have skin allergies 

- you are pregnant 

- you have an irritated skin (eczema, psoriasis, herpes,...)

What are the side effects ?

- Tingling

- Itching 

- Burning

- Mild pain

- Tightness

- Scaling

- Crusting

- Can worsen acne

 

Skin Care 

One week or 4 days* before the peel : 

- stop using products that contain irritating ingredients like retinoic, glycolic, lactic, kojic acids... 

- stop waxing because it makes your skin more sensitive

- do an allergy test : just apply a very timy amount of the peel on your neck, wait 2 minutes and rinse off.  Examine your skin's reaction the following days. If you notice something abnormal, then don't have a chemical peel.

* 1 week is for peels above 30 % (which I don't recommend at home) and 4 days is for peels below 30 %  

After the peel

- Moisturize your skin with an organic oil (argan, jojoba, olive,...) or a neutral cream (so it must not contain retinoic, glycolic, lactic, salicylic or even kojic acids). Dermatologists say you have to moisturize your skin up to 20 times the day after the peel... the following days, it may be 10 to 20 times a day depending on your skin's needs

- Use an antibiotic ointments like Bactroban or Polysporin. If you cannot find them, honey (especially manuka honey) is a natural antibiotic. You can have pure honey mask or you can mix a little bit of your honey to your face cream (but a little bit, otherwise your face will be sticky)

- Use a soapless cleanser

- Use a collagen or hyaluronic acid serum. It would help you skin to heal.

- Use a sunscreen everyday (at the very least spf 30 please)

- Do not pick or rub your skin !!! 

- No sauna and no jacuzzi !!!

These recommendations should be respected during 5 days after the peel (this is for peels equal or lower than 30%, for peels with higher level of % ask your dermatologist). 

Again, I am telling you having a peel at home can be risky especially if you use an inappropriate percentage of acid. Please, as I told you, make an allergy test and always start with a lower percentage of acid (15 %). If you never used glycolic acid, please start with an aha cream (8%). Let your skin get used to aha and then have a peel (but again start with a lower percentage).

But when you decice to have a peel, you do it at your own risk. I am just giving you advice and useful information.  If something went wrong I am not responsible of it.

Also make lots of researches on the internet. Please read the following links :

Source : 

http://sante-medecine.commentcamarche.net/contents/534-peeling-chez-un-dermatologue 

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/peels/chemical-peel

http://gkayskincare.com/gkay/chemical_care.html

http://www.deborahwinter.com/procedures_aftercare/superficial_peels/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3047741/

How To Apply Glycolic Acid Peel At Home

Hello Lovelies, 

First and foremost, you need to know that having glycolic acid peel is risky. You need to know that it is an acid so it may burn your skin if your skin is too sensitive or if the percentage of the peel is too high. This is the reason why I strongly recommend you to start with 15 % and never to go beyond 30 % at home. If you want to have a 40 % (and above) glycolic acid peel go to your dermatologist!!  

I am telling you again, having a glycolic acid peel is risky!! Personnally, I think it's better to start with a 8 % AHA cream. After 3 months of use, when your skin can tolerate AHA, you can have a peel.

On my blog, I am just giving you advice and usefull information.  If something goes wrong  for you, I am not responsible of it. 

Make some researches on the internet and then if you are confident enough you can have a light peel. And slowly you can increase the percentage of the peel, but never go beyond 30 % at home. But, I am telling you again, when you decice to have a peel, you do it at your own risk!! 

So here are the steps to have a glycolic acid peel at home. 

1) Prepare the peel : I know some companies sell chemical peel sets like MUAC ready to use but I recently purchased glycolic acid from Garden of Wisdom and I am going to use it. Their glycolic acid is 70 % pure. I want a 30 % peel. So I mix 1 tablespoon of glycolic acid with 1 tablespoon of water. Then I add a few more drops of water to have a 30 % peel.

2) Prepare the neutralizer : I mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 5 tablespoon of water

3) Apply the peel with a brush (from the forehead to the chin)

4) Wait 2 - 3 minutes (never wait more than 5 minutes)

5) Soak some cotton balls into the neutralizer and start to remove the peel.

6) Wash your face with a soap free cleanser

7) Moisturize well your skin (with argan oil or any good neutral moisturizer)

For practicle examples, please watch some of these videos on youtube : 

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=glycolic+acid+peel&oq=glycolic+acid+peel&gs_l=youtube.3..0l2.52.3522.0.4059.16.9.0.5.5.0.556.3511.0j2j0j2j2j3.9.0...0.0...1ac.1.11.youtube.LtqI6rI1dNk

Home Made AHA/BHA Toner - Aspirin, Lemon and Green Tea

Hi Lovelies,

I am such a DIY girl. I like to make cosmetic products <3 <3

I just uploaded some pictures with my spotty cheek. I told you I recently had glycolic acid peel. In 3 days, it has improved my cheek, but glycolic peel is not the only reason of my skin's improvement. I also start using a home made AHA/BHA toner. Usually, I don't use toner. I just use my Bioderma Cleanser with Avène Spring Water, but because of these pimples I decided to use an effective toner.

So here is the recipe of my home made toner : 

- 2 Tablespoons of Fresh Lemon Juice (natural AHA)
- 1 Tablespoon of  Fresh Orange Juice (natural AHA)

- 3 Aspirin Tablets (BHA)

- 35 ml of Green Tea (tea made with green tea bags)

- 4 drops of Grape Fruit Seed Extract (natural preservative)

This toner should be stored in the fridge and can be used only during 10 days. It is very effective on pimples. Honestly, this toner is the best that I have ever used. I am not telling that because I made this toner, but because it contains very good ingredients. Just google "Aspirin Toner" and you would see how many positive reviews are on the internet. Salicylic acid (or BHA) is very very effective for fighting against acne.

PLEASE USE A SUNSCREEN IF YOU USE THIS TONER ON MORNINGS BECAUSE LEMON AND ORANGE ARE PHOTOSENSITIZING!!

Glycolic Acid Home Peel Experience - Pictures to show you my progress

Hi Lovelies,

As I promised, I'm uploading my pictures so you can see the progress of my skin during the peel process. But I have to say that the first photo is already a cheating... Well, I did my first glycolic acid peel 3 days ago... so this is not what my skin looked like before the first peel, ok ?

In these photos, you can see my pimples but there are no scars or brown spots (due to pimples). Before my first glycolic peel, this pimple area was brown and I had more pimples... 

with flash

without flash

I am such a lazy girl so I hadn't take any pictures before the peeling... I am so sorry. But believe me, this area was terrible.. I had many pimples, brown spots and my skin was very irritated. What you can see in the pictures is a huge improvement for me. It all started with one hormonal pimple and I, I know I shouldn't have done that, picked that pimple. The second day I had 2 more pimples. The third day, 2 more again... And at the end, I had like 8 pimples on my right cheek. I was so upset because I fought so much against acne. These pimples just reminded me that terrible and painful time of my life. Actually, I panicked because I thought my acne was back. But I think these pimples just reminded me that having a good skin is a continuous battle.

See, what you see in the pictures is nothing compare to my early skin. I had such a terrible acne combined with hyperpigmentation. Thanks to AHA and Retin A, I got rid of acne. I used these products for many many years. Then I stupidly stopped using them. I thought that as the acne had gone I could stop using them.. But an acne proned skin would always be an acne proned skin. This is why it's important to continue using AHA, BHA or Retinoids products (of course the concentration should be lessen) even after acne. Then these ingredients are also very good to prevent aging signs. At 27, I think it's good to use something to prevent wrinkles. I already described you my skin's condition. My skin has special needs and I know that AHA, BHA and Retinoids are the only ingredients capable to meet my skin's needs.

Glycolic Acid Home Peel

Hi Lovelies, 

For a few days, I have been breaking out badly. It is so terrible because my cheek is full of pimples and scars :( :(  I am really really really upset...

So to deal this problem, I decided to have glycolic acid home peel. Thanks God, I recently purchased glycolic acid from garden of wisdom !!

Dermatologists recommend to have 7 glycolic acid treatments in 2-3 week intervals for best results... But I think this only for a peel below 30 %. Higher than that, it should be much longer like once every 3-4 weeks!!! 

I am going to start with 30 % because as I already told you I use regularly Retin A and AHA creams, so my skin can tolerate 30 %. But If you're a beginner start with 15 %. You need to know how your skin will react... After one month with 15 % (once every 10 days), you can try 20 % (once a week) and slowly increase the percentage depending your skin's reaction and needs.

I am going to publish a post on "how to apply glycolic acid peel at home" and upload some photos soon.

My Skincare Routine

Hello Lovelies, 

I just wanna share with you my current skincare routine.

Morning

- Bioderma Sensibio  cleanser and make up remover -  It is important to use a good cleanser on mornings if you use glycolic acid or retin a. You have to keep in mind that the aim of these products is to make your skin peel, to accelerate the renewal of your cells,... so you have to help your skin to get rid of the dead skins. I like to use this cleanser because it removes well my make up, the dirts and the dead skins without irritating my skin. I use this product for ages and I am a very big fan of it. It is a HG product.

- Avène Spring Water - I use it just to remove the cleanser and calm my skin.  Again, it is a HG product.

- SkinActives Vitamin C Serum - I have just started using this 20 % vitamin C serum. So far,  I like it.

- SkinActives Bright I cream - Same, I have just started using it. 

- Vichy Idealia day/night cream - It is a nice moisturizer. Perfect for day because it's a pinky and pearly cream making your skin glowing. I have to review this cream because I truly like it.

- Bioderma Photoderm Laser SPF 50 Sunscreen - I am completely fan of this sunscreen. It is perfect for people dealing with hyperpigmentation. Another HG product. Actually, I really like Bioderma. It is a very good brand : effective and affordable.

Night

- Bioderma Sensibio  cleanser and make up remover 

- Avene Spring Water 

- Retin A or SkinActives Brightening Cream with Arbutin or SkinActives Vitamin A Twilight Awakening Cream

- SkinActives Collagen Serum - After applying Retin A, I wait 1 hour and then I apply this serum on top.

I know that I use a lot of SkinActives products, but I cannot tell you their effectiveness because I just have started using them. A friend of mine recommanded me this brand. And I like their concept of making yourself your cream...

In 1 or 2 months, I will review these products for sure.

Nuxe Crème Fraîche de Beauté Serum - Review

Hello Lovelies, 

When you're using products containing aha, bha or retinoids it is important to moisturize well your skin. First, because these products can really dry your skin. Second, because the aim of aha, bha and retinoids is to make your skin peel in order to have a new layer of skin. So by moisturizing your skin, you will help it to peel better and to accelerate the renewal of your cells.

I tried many moisturizing creams and serums. Few of them really worked on me. So here is a review of the serum Crème Fraîche de Beauté from Nuxe. Actually, Nuxe is a very famous french brand which has won many beauty awards. Most of their products are awesome like their lip balm "rêve de miel", their face creams "crème prodigieuse" and "crème fraîche de beauté", their eye cream "contour des yeux prodigieux", their mask "masque frais hydratant"... These are very good products and you should give them a try. I can personnally recommend their lip balm, their face creams and the mask. I hadn't the opportunity to try their eye cream prodigieux, but I tried their eye cream "contour des yeux nirvanesque" which was ok (but not enough good to repurchase). 

As I was very satisfied by their face cream "crème fraîche de beauté", I wanted to try the serum from the same line. But let me say that I was very disappointed... 

source : http://www.parapharmacie-en-ligne.com/3330-4185-large/nuxe-serum-creme-fraiche-de-beaute-30ml.jpg

What they say : 

The NUXE Crème Fraiche range has been reformulated to specifically satisfy dehydrated and sensitive skin's needs.

A quenching serum for all thirsty sensitive skins.

Upon contact with the skin, NUXE Crème Fraiche 24hr Moisturizing Anti-Fatigue Concentrate Serum 'breaks' and liquefies instantaneously for a very thirst-quenching sensation of freshness paired with a silky finish. Its a daily salvation for very dry skin or skin exposed to the arid environments of airconditioned offices, for which it can be used under Creme Fraiche Moisturizing Rebalancing Emulsion.
It is also suitable for the eye contour and is also a favourite amongst men for calming razor burn. A 100% natural and botanical origin component is hydrolysed in the skin with hyaluronic acid that is able to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. A high concentration of salicornia gives a greater boost to the circulation and the distribution of water in all the layers of the epidermis. The skin is instantly soothed and quenched for 24 hours.

Directions for use:
Can be used under your usual skin care or for maximum moisturisation use under Creme Fraiche Moisturizing Emulsion. Can also be used on the eye contour

What I say

Texture

It is a creamy gel. It is quickly and easily absorbed by the skin. It lets the skin soft, glowy and very very sticky!!

Smell

Nice. It is like a deodorant smell, but it is pleasant.

Opinion

The formula of this serum is nice because it is 100 % natural. It is for sensitive and dehydrated skin. So it should be perfect for my skin... But I have to say I was very disappointed by this serum. Of course, it does what it claims : it moisturizes (but it is not enough for me). It doesn't penetrate into the skin. I mean, I feel like it just stays on top of the skin and hadn't the ability to moisturize deeply.
Also, it does ball !! So It was difficult to fix well my make up. 
Plus, the pump system didn't work... so I had to use a cream applicator spatula, but at the end I had to use my fingers which isn't hygienic. I talked with a few friends and have seen few reviews on youtube and you know what I wasn't the only girl dealing with this deffective pump...
But the good point is that my acne proned skin tolerated it because I had no break-outs, no irritation, no redness. 

So overall, this is not a serum for me. Maybe, it can be a nice serum for people with light dehydration.
I need to try Bioderma's Hydrabio.

Price

I can't remember exactly, but it is pricey for the quality of the product. 

Would I buy it again

Never!!!

Essential Oils For Acne - How To Treat Pimples Fast ?

Hello Lovelies,

There are many treatments for acne. The most effective are BHA, AHA, Retinoids (or Retin A), Adapalene (synthetic retinoid), Clindamycin (antibiotics) or Benzyl Peroxide. The problem with these ingredients is the TIME!! Often, you need to wait at least 2 weeks (antibiotics and benzyl peroxide) to see the results. With the rest of the ingredients, it takes many months... 

Now, let's say you have an occasional pimple and you have a birthday party, graduation or any celebration in 2-3 days... How can you treat the very huge pimple on your cheek??? You cannot wait 2 weeks, right?!! There is a way to treat pimples fast. It is the use of essential oils. 

Many essential oils have the ability to treat occasional pimples (and acne). Here is a list : 

- chamomille oil

- cranberry seed oil

- eucalyptus dive oil

- geranium oil

- grapefruit oil

- helichrysum oil

- lavender oil

- lemon oil

- lime oil

- mint oil

- neem oil

- palmarosa oil

- peppermint oil

- rosemarry oil

- rosewood oil

- sandalwood oil

- tea tree oil

- thyme oil

- turmeric oil

- ylang-ylang oil

I might have forgotten some... If you know some that work great on pimples and is not included in this list please comment below. 

Use: 

Please use essential oils with caution because they are very powerful!! Pregnant women should NEVER use essential oils because some are so powerful that it can cause miscarriage!!! Unless medical recommandation, do not use essential oils for breastfeeding women, babies and children under 3 years old. 

Also, you cannot use essential oils directly onto your face (except lavender and tea tree oil). You have to dilute it into an organic oil or cream. The percentage is 1% to 2 % for your face (please avoid eye area) and 1 % to 4 % for your body. 

Some essential oils cannot be used during the day because they are photosensitizing (citrus family like lemon, grapefruit, orange,...). 

Essential oils and pimples

You know a pimple is a mix of oil and bacteria. You have to kill the bacteria and lessen the oil (excess sebum) to destroy the pimple. Essential oils have antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Also, they do not only have the ability to kill the bacteria, but also can heal the skin and reduce inflammation.

Some people use essentials oils to treat acne. I think it's a good idea, but if you have a severe acne I don't think essential oils will help you... I think that they are just extremely effective on occasional pimples and on very light acne. But this is just my personnal opinion.

Coming to the occasional pimples, I use lavender and tea tree oil directly on the pimple. In just one night, it reduce the inflammation (so the size of the pimple) and in 2 days (with 3 applications per day) the pimple is killed!! If you want to treat it faster, you can apply up to 5-6 times the essential oil on the pimple. In this case, tea tree oil can be too strong and agressive. It's better to use lavender, because it can also heal and reduce scars. 

Recipes : 

For pimples or small pimples area

EO Hyssopus officinalis (Hyssop) 2 ml

EO Mentha x piperita (Peppermint) 0.5 ml

EO Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree) 6 ml

EO Lavandula latifolia spica (Lavender) 1 ml

EO Matricaria recutita (Chamomille) 0.5 ml

A few drops on the pimples or pimples area morning and evening until healing

OR

EO Eucalyptus dives 1 ml

EO Lavender 1 ml

EO Tea tree 2 ml

EO Rosemary verbenone 1 ml

A few drops on the pimples or pimple area morning and evening until healing

These two recipes are from Dominique Baudoux, a famous french pharmacist aromatologist.

For those who are interested in curing acne by using essential oils, here is one recipe : 

Organic Jojoba oil 20 ml

EO Lavender 4 drops 

EO Tea tree 4 drops

EO Geranium 4 drops

EO Palmarosa 4 drops 

Also add a few drops of vitamin E to these preparations for longer storage. 

Source :

http://www.naturalnews.com/028374_acne_essential_oils.html

http://www.jeannerose.net/articles/Anti_Bact_Acne_EO.html

http://www.aroma-zone.com/aroma/ficheteatree.asp

http://www.lessentieldejulien.com/2011/04/acne-adieu-boutons-taches-et-imperfections/

My HG products against dehydrated skin

Hi Lovelies,

Remember when I told you I have a dehydrated skin ?? Actually, I have found a solution for this problem. I use two products that are just saving my life. The first one is a mask, it is the soothing moisture mask from Avene.

source : http://www.aveneusa.com/soothing-moisture-mask

This mask is very light and non comedogenic, then perfect for my acne proned skin. Also, it is hypoallergenic and preservative free, so it's suitable for sensitive skin. It is rich of Avène thermal spring water, safflower oil and glycols. These ingredients are very good to moisture effectively your skin. I really like this mask because it deeply moisturizes and let my skin radiant, plumpy and smooth. I apply a good amount to dry face and after 10-15 min I remove the excess. This mask shouldn't be rinced. It can be used as a serum or as a night cream. 

My second HG product is Biafine which is  a medication to treat damaged skin by deeply moisturizing it. 

source : http://www.pharmashopdiscount.com/27038-11999-thickbox/pommade-biafine-emulsion-tube-186g.jpg

This medication is used to heal minor burns, sunburns, minor cuts, scrapes and ulcerations. But its healing power is so strong that some people use it on the face.
This cream eliminates damaged tissue, heals the skin and boost the level of collagen!! Such a wonderful cream right?? Also, it can be used as a mask, a serum, a cream for face, arms, legs,... everywhere you need. I apply it generously at night (never use this medication during the day or when exposing to the sun).

To finish, I wanna tell you guy that these two products have won many beauty awards in Europe, mainly in France. So I think you can give them a try if you also have a dehydrated skin like mine.

The best skin care active ingredients

A good cream should contain good active ingredients. But what are these good ingredients? The answer depends on your skin needs, but here are some popular actives in the cosmetics industry. 

Hyaluronic acid (HA) : it's a substance naturally found in the body (we have approximately 15 grams of HA). It is used in the cosmetics for :

- its moisturizing properties : HA would penetrates into the derm and boost the hydratation of the skin. It is the only ingredient capable to hold in moisture at the level of 1000 ml of water per gram of HA.

- its capacity of stimulating collagen synthesis and cell proliferation : thus it will also boost the elasticity of the skin

--> An elastic and moisturized skin looks youthful and plumpy. Unluckily, with age, the level of HA in the body will diminish causing loss of skin moisture and wrinkles. This is the reason why we should start using HA cream ( a concentration of 1% would be ideal) as soon as possible in order to prevent wrinkles.

Collagen (CO) : skin is made up mostly of collagen. Called also as the protein of youth, collagen fibers provide the sturdiness of the skin. It is responsible for the elasticity, the tonicity, the moisture of the skin and the renovation of the cells. After the age of 25, the production of CO will decrease leading to the thinning of the skin. The lack of CO is even more visible after the age of 45. The symptoms of collagen loss are : wrinkles, skin pigmentation disorders, dry skin and cellulite. Depends on your age, the concentration of CO in a cream could vary from 0.5 % to 5 %.

Peptides (P) : P are short chains of proteins. As I already said, Collagen is a protein (= long chains of amino acids strung together). When this chain is broken down, 3 to 5 amino acids are assembled to form the peptides. The creation of these peptides is a signal to the body : "we are loosing collagen"! Applying peptides directly to the skin is a way to trick it into thinking that it has lost collagen and needs to make more. Some peptides have the ability to block transmission of signals from nerves to  the facial muscles (= Botox effect). Other can deliver copper into the skin which is is an excellent healing agent. Overall, P are effective anti aging ingredients.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) : are derived from fruit and milk sugars. The most common are glycolic acid and lactic acid because they have a special ability to penetrate the skin. AHA work as an exfoliant. They remove slowly dead skins and accelerate the regrowth of new cells. Also, they stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, fight against wrinkles and hyperpigmentation,  clear acne, blackheads, whiteheads, improve skin moisture and the overall look and feel of the skin. AHA creams best work in a concentration of 8%. You can have real results after months of daily use. If you want  fast results it is also possible to have AHA, glycolic ou lactic peel.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) : also known in the cosmetics industry as salicylic acid, BHA are similar to AHA and have the same properties. The differences are that BHA are less irritating and they are oil soluble, it means they work best on oily skin because they can penetrate into the pore which contains sebum.

Vitamin C : is an antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage skin's collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals and reverses DNA damage. It means it will help to reduce wrinkles,  fine lines, hyperpigmentation, skin dullness and even out the complexion.

Tretinoid or Retinoic Acid : is the first generation of retinoids. Basically, it is Retin A. This is the star ingredient. It unclog pores, clear acne, boost collagen production, reduce fine lines, speed cell turnover, even out discoloration and smooth the skin. I will soon publish a detail post on this active ingredient.

For the french speaking people here, I recommend to read the following article on the beauty regimen of some famous dermatologist. They all use at least 2-3 actives of the upper list. 

http://www.elle.fr/Beaute/Dossiers-beaute/Soins-Visage-Corps/Cremes-piqures-ce-que-les-medecins-choisissent-pour-elles-1488138

Sources :

http://organicbeautyandskin.com/what-is-my-skin-type/benefits-of-hyaluronic-acid.html

http://www.skinmedica.com/beautytalk/collagen-the-youth-protein

http://www.aroma-zone.com/aroma/fiche_actif_Collagene-vegetal.asp

http://thedermblog.com/2008/06/23/do-peptides-in-skin-care-products-work/

http://blog.hydropeptide.com/skin-care-ingredients/peptides.html

http://dermatology.about.com/cs/skincareproducts/a/aha.htm
http://dermatology.about.com/cs/skincareproducts/a/bha.htm

http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/information/nutrition/vitamin-c-benefit-skin.htm
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/skin/vitaminC/
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/aging/retinoid-gel-and-cream-treatments
http://www.oprah.com/style/Retinoid-Skin-Creams-Why-You-Should-Use-a-Retinoid

How I got rid of my acne and my new aim

Hi Lovelies,

During my teenage, I never had one single pimple. I had whiteheads, a greasy T zone but no pimple, no acne. But at the very beginning of my twenties, I started having acne!! And I think it is worse having acne after 20 that before 20 because adult acne is hard to cure. Plus, I have an ethnic skin, it means that these f* pimples let me terrible scars. 

After some research on the internet, I found out that AHA and BHA are excellent ingredients to cure acne. I purchased pure glycolic acid and mixed it to my night creme. I first started with only 7 %. After a month, I raised at 10 %. After 2 months, I finally was able to use a 15% glycolic acid based cream.

The first 4 months were horrible. My face was breaking out, but it was a normal reaction. Actually, glycolic acid deep cleanse the skin. So pimples, whiteheads, blackheads will come out. You shouldn't panic, just wait that this "purge" finishes.

From the 6th month, I had less pimples, no more whiteheads and blackheads. My complexion was radiant. Of course, I still had scars but they were less noticeable. 

I used AHA in combination with BHA (Aspirin mask) and Retin A (Retinoid) during 4 years. Seriously, I neved had such a beautiful skin. These wonderful ingredients helped me with acne, scars, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation,... But stupidly I stopped using them. 

I don't even know the reason why I stopped using them... Well, I know, AHA creams taste sour (not that I was eating my creams, but you know it can be annoying...) and my skin became sensitive to sun.

Now after 2 years without AHA, BHA, Retin A, I decided to go back to them. There are many reasons for this decision :

- I still have some whiteheads and occasional pimples

- These pimples let me scars

- I have hyperpigmentation around my mouth and on my forehead

- At 27 I am having wrinkles

- I have a very dehydrated skin

Yes, I know I have such a terrible skin. But I am convinced that my new routine will improve my skin because before using AHA stuffs my skin was much horrible. Today I "just" have a combination skin with some occasional pimples, some scars and few hyperpigmentation. Before AHA, I had severe acne, lots of scars, hyperpigmentation on my whole face, a very dull complexion,... I really hope I can find some good photographs in order you'd be able to compare my old and my current skin. But for sure, in my next post I will upload my current pictures because I want you to see the evolution of my skin in the next 12 months.

Welcome to my blog

Hi Lovely People,

Are you desperate with your skin? Do you still have acne at 27 ? combined with hyperpigmentation ? combined with dehydration ? combined with wrinkles ? Then your skin is like mine. Isn't it a headache to find the good products to treat all of these skin problems ? YES IT IS. But don't worry together we are going to find what works the best for our skin types.

This blog will be a girly girl blog. I am going to talk about make up, skin care, fashion, my eating habits... But mainly I am going to describe you my journey to healthy, beautiful and glowing skin!!
My aim is to achieve this gorgeous skin that I am dreaming about for ages!! In 1 year from today, I WANT THAT SKIN!!! I know this is a real challenge, but I wanna try.

So Let's Get Started!!!