I don’t know about you guys, but I don’t (honestly don’t want to) think it’s necessary to spend hundreds of dollars on eye shadows, blushes, and brushes.

I am a typical girl when it comes to make up … I love makeup, but why should I spend so much money on them.

If you have sensitive skin or hard to match skin or allergies and etc I understand sticking with expensive brands (because you have had great experience with them), but if you are like me then accessory makeup should be easy on the wallet.

I do, however, spend good money on foundation because it does go on your full face.  Here are my reason why I have specific brand:

1.  I have hard to match skin undertone.  I don’t have fully olive undertone, but rather it’s in between olive and yellow undertone to it.

2.  MAC foundation I use does not make me break out.  I did try drug store foundations like Revlon Photoready and Colorstay, L’Oreal True Match, CoverGirl Trublend and Almay Pure Blends, but I am sticking with MAC foundation for now.

I did also use Bareminerals and Everyday minerals as well in the past.

Moreover, I have also used Clinique and Lancome foundations, but I kept on breaking out and didn’t have the FULL coverage as I wanted to so it’s not how much money you spend on foundations … it’s all about how it works on your face.   If $3 bottle of foundation works for you then stick with it!  I am all about what works for you rather than how much it costs!

I do still purchase drug store foundations like Revlon Photoready and Colorstay, but I use them when I am going to be home or going to the pool.  I am a type of person that feels “naked” without my makeup; so I always have makeup on!  Don’t get me wrong … I really do love Revlon foundations because it does cover my face beautifully!

With that said … let’s talk about accessory makeup.  What do I mean by accessory makeup?  I am talking about eye shadows, blushes, lip glosses, brow pencils, brushes and etc.

I am a big fan of watching YOUTUBE videos to learn new techniques or product reviews and tutorials, and cost saving beauty techniques.  However, I have noticed that most of these women use expensive eye, lip, face, and brush products.  For instance, they use MAC or Stila or Bobbi Brown or Urban Decay and etc.

In the beginning I wanted to purchase MAC or Smashbox or Stila brushes, but these little babies run between $15 to $65 a piece!  Can you believe it?  $15 brushes are simple eye shadow brushes!  Call me cheap … I am not spending that much money on them!

So … what is my alternative plan?  I started to purchase elf brushes.  I do have couple MAC brushes because my sister hand it down to me … she is not a big makeup person and she used them one time … lucky for me I took them without looking back!  I have to tell you though … they are great brushes!  It’s very soft and easy to work with when blending eye shadows!

Because I know how expensive brushes are supposed to feel I know what kind of brush I was looking for; but without paying lots of money.  I did purchase few elf brushes in the past, but these brushes had very short life … it just didn’t last long!

However, eight or so months ago I learned that HyVee grocery store started selling elf cosmetics.  Since it was only $1.00 a piece for a eyeshadow and a blending brush I decided to take it home (of course, I paid them at the register!  LOL).  Honestly, if it doesn’t work then I only lost $2.00 rather than $30.

Wow … elf cosmetic company really improved their products!  The brushes were soft and grabbing powder was really fluid!  I couldn’t believe it!

The next day I grabbed few more brushes and never looked back!  I started to purchase their blushes (which are very pigmented!  YEAH!), lip glosses, false eyelashes, and etc.

Most of the elf products are $1.00 a piece, but they do have $3.00 and up products; which are still much cheaper than other products!

With that said … I have been very happy with elf products and my face is still clean and clear!

Unless I win a big lotto, where I can spend $1,200 on a face cream or have a permanent makeup artist on staff (wouldn’t that be nice?), I am going to keep buying elf products.

Before I forget … I do have a little problem with “some” elf brushes.  I did notice that the seam (metal and the handle part) does disassemble in time, but I use super glue to put them together … so no real big problem; just little annoyance!  However, this little annoyance will not stop me from purchasing them.

Cheers!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Trying to stay youthful isn’t is.

Soon or later the gravity will takes its toll  (including your face), and everything will start drooping!  Of course, if you are a smoker, the wrinkles on your face will be much more noticeable and will increase your aging process faster.

I have tried Youthful Essence System by Susan Lucci and Provectin lotion (generic alternative to Stri-Vectin because I too cheap to spent $150 plus on tube of lotion) from Walgreens; however, I keep on seeing more wrinkles on my face!!!!!

I know these wrinkles on my face isn’t that deep … it’s more superficial wrinkles then anything else, but so some odd reason I want to look like I am in my twenties!  Yes … I am dreaming and going through my mid-life crisis here!  LOL  I will be soon facing the big  “4-0″ mark … how did I get here?

I guess I was having way too much fun (or busy family life) to really notice the big “4-0″ benchmark!

Ok … with all the jokes aside … I have accomplished many things in my life.

First and foremost, I am still married to the love of my life and not only we share our love for one another, but we respect each other — an important factor in a happy marriage.  By no mean I am an expert on this matter or have a degree in psychology … I say this purely out of my own experience.

Also, my husband and I have beautiful kids together.  Yes … they do drive us crazy and carpooling never stops, but we love them unconditionally.

I can go on-and-on about this, but this isn’t why I started writing today.

I have decided to stick with the MAC liquid foundation, but it does get pricy after a while.  So in order to use every last drop of the bottle I have decided to make my own tinted moisturizer.

No matter what you do … even if you have turn the bottle upside down for a week you wont get all the liquid makeup out of the bottle.

Instead of throwing it away, with little bit of liquid foundation still in the bottle, I usually add little bit of Oil of Olay face lotion into the bottle.  I am not talking about the expensive Olay moisturizers … I am talking about $3 – $5 oil free moisturizers.  I picked up couple of bottles few months ago when Gerbes had them on sale at a Closeout price for $1.99/bottle.  With my coupons I was able to pick them up for only $0.99 each.

You are more than welcome to use the generic bottles you can pick up at Walmart or Target or Walgreens … they have their own version of the generic Oil of Olay lotion products.

Anyhoot … once I add the lotion (because it’s oil free) into the bottle I shake like heck … make sure the lotion and the foundation are well mixed.

This semi-homemade lotion is great for summer time or when you are going to be at home.  If you are one of the lucky women with no freckles or dark spots on your face then you can use this as a foundation; however, I was  attacked by the freckle-angel … oh well.

So … on the days where I can be at home or going to the pool or working outside I use this as my “foundation.”

Happy recycling!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

OK … I have been reading and watching reviews about BeautyBlender sponge for a while now, but I just couldn’t imagine spending $20+ on a makeup sponge.

From video reviews it does look like an individual can easily apply foundations “perfectly;” but justifying spending $20 on a sponge really worth it?

Many professional makeup artists prefer using their fingers to apply makeup, a beauty technique, because you can really control the application process.  I, for one, like using my fingers because not only I don’t waste expensive liquid makeup foundation (I paid $27 plus on MAC foundation), but I have noticed I get more “flawless” look.

Of course, this is all debatable … sponge vs fingers or sponges vs makeup brush, and etc.

With that said … I was ready to purchase the BeautyBlender sponge until I saw a Youtube review.  Not only you have to take care of them (washing, disinfecting, and moisturizing), but it only lasts up to 6-months … this is IF you take care of your sponge.

I am not known for taking care of this kind of stuff … honestly, who has time?  I am lucky if I put on makeup in the morning!

Any hoot … my idea of purchasing a BeautyBlender sponge went out the door … I don’t want to waste that much money.

After further research I came across a video on Super Blender Elliptical Sponge by Ulta makeup store; honestly, I am always out for cheaper beauty products!

The reviews on this product was not that good … there were more negatives than positives.  However, the reviews were in comparison with the BeautyBlender sponge … so it is little bit biased.

With that said … since I received a coupon from Ulta company and Super Blenders were on sale for BUY 2 GET 2 FREE sale I thought I would give that a try.

I am willing to waste $5.00 vs possibly wasting $20 plus on a makeup sponge.

Let me tell you from a personal opinion that I was little bit disappointed.

Here are my pros and cons review on Super Blender Sponge.

Pros:
Inexpensive
Easy grip sponge
Available at stores (I didn’t have to order it on-line or anything)
Easily to Clean

Cons:
Really is a dense sponge
Absorbs lots of liquid foundation
No storage container so you need a make-shift sponge case to dry
Creates a “cakey” look

At first, I did notice that it was absorbing lots of liquid foundation so for a week I used my “cheaper” drug store liquid foundation until I felt that the sponge has loosened up a bit.

It did work … the sponge felt much better after using it for a week; however, it still created the “cakey” look on my face … it’s not a beauty!

I don’t know if I am psych-ing myself out or not, but I personally feel that putting the liquid foundation on with my fingers had the better result.

It has been over two weeks now and I am not totally convinced that this sponge gives the “flawless … airbrushed look,” so now I am back to using my fingers.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

CLICK HERE to get full information

It’s that time of the year where special spa packages and massage packages are abundant to consumers.

There are many different type of massages:

Swedish massage – gentle massage

Deep-tissue massage – more forceful massage to target deeper layer of muscles

Sports massage – similar to Swedish, but for active individuals.

Trigger point massage – relieve injuries and/or overuse of muscle

There are so many benefits to receivng massages which includes relieving stress, decrease anxiety, pain and stiffness of muscles, and etc.

However, you must be cautious in hiring and/or using trained massage therapist.  I shared with you yesterday the pain and tears I experienced by using a “wrong” therapist.

According to Mayo Clinic risks of massage includes, but not limited to: unexplained pain or other symptoms, internal bleeding, nerve damage, temporary paralysis, and allergic reactions to massage oils or lotions.

According to Mayo Clinic most serious problems and injuries comes from too much pressue during massage, and speak up right away if the massages don’t feel right or is painful.

Don’t be scared of possible negative effects of massages because first it is in a rare circumstances, and second there are more benefits than disadvantages!

Back to my point … since the holidays are coming more spas and massage clinics are having great deals on massage works.  So make sure to get one for your loved one because I am getting one for myself!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I love getting messages!  There is nothing more relaxing than a massage therapist rubbing out stress knots and kneading muscles.  Not only massage relieves stress, but beneficial to your general aesthetics of your body and mind.

It was about a year ago when I decided to sign myself up at a local (franchise) message clinic called Message Envy.

I was so excited that I was able to pamper myself once a month for ONLY $49 a month!  I know it’s quite steep (especially a cheap-O like myself), but I needed to decompress all my stress and anxiety.

At the time I thought one year membership wasn’t too bad and decided to enroll my mother-in-law into the same franchise clinic (only it was out-of-state).

Well … it took three months (or three sessions) to figure out the best massage therapists for my needs.  I specially shared my preferences with the desk personnel, but never got the “perfect” match.

The very first massage therapist had feather-hands because she didn’t do anything for my aching muscles, and the second therapist almost killed me because she went so deep into my muscle tissues that I was not able to move for two days.

I did inform her that it was not pleasant, but told me that it will feel better the next day.  WOW … I was in such an agony the next day that I actually cried!

By the time the third appointment came around I specially and firmly told the office manager what kind of message I was looking for.  I needed a deep tissue message without the message therapist digging into my muscle with her fingers … I needed firmly spreaded message: i.e. using entire hands and evenly spreading the pressure with an arm rather than fingers.

Well … I have find the perfect message therapist but after fourth and fifth month came around I started to reschedule my appointment because I was just too busy with everything.  I could only get the message after 6:00 pm, but by 5:00 pm I was too tired to go anywhere.

Next thing you know I racked up 6 unused messages, but since I had a contract for one year I was able to hold on to it.

By the time my contract ran out I managed to rack up 8 sessions.  The office personnel informed me that I could use two sessions at a time, but I couldn’t just lay on the table for more than 45 minutes … so that was a waste.

Thankfully, my franchise allow their customers to cease membership for another three (3) months to use up all the racked up sessions and if I decide to renew it I could do so after my 3 months-freeze was over.

Unfortunately I didn’t get to use up all my sessions, and wound up cancelling my membership at the end.

I was so mad at myself for not using my sessions … just waste of money, but I physically couldn’t get myself out of the house to get relaxed!  It sound ridiculous … I know.

With that said … here are my suggestions if you are NOT a hardcore “I need a message every month person.”

1)  Spending extra $10.00 a month on a message is better than signing ONE (or more) year contract membership.  If you do the math … in my case I wasted $392 in sessions I did not use ($49 times 8 usused sessions) … such waste of money!

2)  Rack up on message deals and specials when spas and salons have them on sale for women: i.e. Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day or X-Mas Day specials.   Better the spa the longer expiration date you will have on these message deals.  My friend’s husband actually picked out a spa package for $100 (includes body and face message) and had ONE full year to use it!  That is an awesome deal!

3)  Careful with franchises because they have to follow specific rules and guidelines even though every franchise has its own rules and restrictions … I prefer locally owned because they are much more flexible with everything.

4)  Speak up!  Let office personnel know what kind of messages you require.  Sometimes being shy does not pay off at the end … I wasted three sessions to figure that out!  I just don’t like confrontation, but speaking up politely is the key!

5)  KNOW THY SELF!  Don’t fall into a trap because of the price!  Know your schedule … know your commitment!

6)  Search for message deals!!!  There are non-holiday/occasion deals all the time!  You can pick up ONE (1) hour session for $35 or even less for a message or tanning!

Hope my suggestions help!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Staying young (via exercise) is NOT the only important concern when you start reaching your forties (or have already reached it).

Where did the time go?  What happened to me?  I never used to look like this!

I woke up one day and stared at my face the mirror in horror … when did these wrinkles happen?  When did I start getting bags under my eyes?  Why do I look like heck?

There is an old saying by Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” and I am so happy my hubby still finds me attractive.  However, I don’t want my face to show the passage of time … you know?

I used to take pride in my skin, my hair, my clothes, my shoes … when did I stop caring?

Well … it’s not I don’t care what I look like, but between working, driving kiddos to their appropriate destinations, cooking, cleaning, taking care of the pets, volunteering, and entertaining I guess I have been putting myself in the back seat a little bit.

Like many moms (and dads) out there I do get sufficient exercise (via running errands and chasing little ones down), but staying young and to achieve best aesthetics also means taking care of your skin

It is amazing how durable and awesome our skin are; thus we frequently overlook and abuse our skin.

In the past year (or so) I have been working really hard taking care of my skin.  Unfortunately, I can’t rewind time and the abuse I have put on my skin, but I am working diligently to take care of it NOW!

Like many people out there I don’t have the luxury to go to an esthetician every week to replenish my face or dermatologist to perform facial rejuvenation.

So … this is what I do at home.

In the past I used to go to bed with my makeup on, but now I complete my nightly rituals every night before heading to bed.

First and foremost … remember to wash your pillow case every week (minimum!).  Since I have to put on heavy facial creams (especially in winter) it rubs off on the pillowcase when I sleep.

OK … back to my nightly ritual.

1)  I wash my face with Dove soap and scrub it with a face loofa you can purchase at local Walmart or any drug stores.

Before I put on any lotions and creams I inspect my face of possible zits and take care it on the spot before it flames up.

2)  Once my skin is nice and clean I rub on Roc Nightly Cream … ALL OVER MY FACE.

3)  I carefully dab on under eye cream since I am starting to puff up and my under eye turns greenish/yellow … I know it looks NICE!

4)  I gentle rub on Vitamin C nightly cream … I don’t have anything fancy … I picked up a jar at Walgreens.

5)  I make sure to sleep on my back and NOT on my face.  Because of lack of elasticity (as you get older) the possible crease on your face when sleeping takes longer to get rid of.  One morning I had a long crease line across my face, and took over half a day to get rid of it.  You can do anything to get rid of it faster … it’s just matter of time until your skin evens out the line.

6)  Once a week I do a clay mask.  I don’t do any masks containing fruit acids because I get a terrible skin irritations.  Can’t remember the brand (I ran out and have to go to Walmart to pick one up) but had an sulfur smell to it but works BEAUTIFULLY!  I do my mask and then hop in shower because I smell like a rotten egg … it really makes my hubby happy!

Other than that … I try to drink lots of water, stay out of sun as much as possible, and try to get a good night sleep.

Good luck!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I honestly don’t have any special nightly regimes before going to bed, but my family and friends wonder why I don’t have wrinkles? Why my skin looks so bright? Why I don’t have acnes (blemishes and zits)? and etc.

Honestly, I don’t have perfect skin!  I do have wrinkles around my eyes and fine wrinkles on my cheeks (especially when I scrunch my face to smile), I do have occassional zits, and TRUST EM … I don’t have flawless skin!

With that said … I do get occassional “are you a grad student?” or “Excuse me miss?,” and my favorite … “You look too young to have children at that age!”

With that said … I do take care of my face to best of my abilities with daily washings and proper moisturizings.

As you all know … I am a cheap-o!  I don’t like to spend outrageous amounts of money on ANYTHING!  However, I do cough up good $20 a month on my retinol lotions.

So … as you can guess … I don’t go to get facials or purchase expensive pearl scrubs or anything like that.

I simple wash my face with Dove soap and moisturize my face with Roc Rentol night time lotion.

Funny thing, and it came as a total surprise.  I ran out of Dove Bar soap, and was too cheap to purchase one (1) bar of soap for $1.89 … hoping the price will go down, but never did.

I had at least 15 bottles of the Dove visible care soap, and thought to myself … “why not?  It’s still Dove!”

I stock up on Dove soaps and lotions when they go on sale because my kids have sensitivities to perfumes and fragrances, and they also get dried out rather frequently.

I purchased 20 bottles (5 I gave to my mom) at Walmart whileback when the store put them in the clearance aisle for $2.00 a piece.  Luckily I had my $1.00 off coupons with me so I purchased 20 of them for only $20.00!

If you are Dove brand user you know how expensive this brand can get; so purchasing that many soap made financial sense for my family.

Back to my point … since I ran out of the bar soap I decided to open up a bottle of Dove visible care and use it on my face.

It was nice and creamy and cleaned my skin beautifully.

I was little bit nervous that night thinking it might be to oily for skin, because it is meant for the body, but what was I going to do; right?

Well … it has been over a month and my skin looks so much better than before.  I don’t know if its because it has more moisturing ingredients or not, but my skin looks tighter and less dry (which is a huge problem in winter time).

So, with all that rambling … I used Dove visible care body wash on my face, and it works beautifully.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

What can I say … I am a cheap-o!

I wanted a larger curling because having big loop curls are in these days; however, I wasn’t about to hash out $40 plus to own one.

Well … after searching high and low I decided to purchase REVLON Perfect Heat Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron … that’s a mouth full!

Anyhow, I picked up the 1 1/2 inch Barrel and paid $14.99 (w/o tax).  I couldn’t find anything cheaper than this, and I didn’t want to use a Pre-used ones.

I have never bought REVLON hairstyling tools (i.e. curling iron or flat iron or hair dryer) so it was going to be a surprise … hoped it would be a good surprise.

Brought it home and couldn’t wait to use it!

The next day I decided to curl my hair and plugged in the curling iron.

Well … Well … well … It’s LOPPSIDED or TOP-HEAVY!  The “built-in” stand to keep the hot rod from touching the counter furace kept on touching.

I even tried to move the cord around to counter-balance the heavy barrel, but it was no success.

I was so frusterated and kept on worrying I was going to leave a burn mark on my bathroom counter.

Also, I personally think it doesn’t get “hot-enough” to give my thick hair good curls; but I was trying to reach the soft-curl effect so I am not to bother by this.

I had this curling iron for two days now, and used it couple of times, but I am not completely sold on this product.

I still have to mess around to counter balance the weight distrubution, and had to haul in granite table protection square to the bathroom.

I think I am going to return this product and get my money back.  It’s just not worth the worry and irritation.

Honestly, I don’t think I would recommand this product to my friends and family.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I have search high and low, through out my life, to find the perfect makeup for my face.

I used to wear mineral foundations (Barecentuals and Everyday Minerals), but they were getting too expensive.

Also, since I am getting “older” I have noticed that I could see more wrinkles around my eyes, and my cheeks when I wear mineral foundations.

My sister suggested that I should try MAC foundations, and with a huge hesitation (because of the price) I agreed with her.

Well … I love it!  It covers great and it matches my skin tone beautifully!  Also, this makeup did not make me break out or anything!  All-in-all … it was great.

UNTIL … I ran out!

I didn’t want to spend another $30 for makeup.

Fortunately, our local Walgreens had their “Buy 1 Get 1 50% OFF” sale on all REVLON PhotoReady foundations, and I had $2 OFF coupon and $5 Register Reward.

I couldn’t decide on which shade would work best, and from research I had already done at this point steered towards 006 and 008.

So … I purchased one foundation for $11.99 and received my second product for $6.00, and used my $2 & $5 Q’s; which came to total of $10.99 for two foundations!

Not too bad!!!

I have discovered that 006 is my summer foundation because I do get little dark during summer time, and 008 is my spring/winter foundation.

I was little bit confused to the color difference … I would have thought that 008 will be darker than 006, but not that case here.

I absolutely adore this makeup!

It covers so well and doesn’t make me look like I have caked on makeup!  Also, taking picture is much more fun these days!  In the past I would either look PALE or too dark!

I have used this product for more than 5 months now, and I have not had any problem thus far!

I love … love … love this makeup!

Try it out for yourself, and if it doesn’t work you can always take it back to the store for a full refund!

Happy Beauty!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I don’t know where I read it and frankly I don’t know when I read it, but I remembered a trick about getting rid of blemishes.

At my age I thought I don’t have to worry about acnes or zits or blemishes anymore (especially when I am using Retinol lotion on my face every night), but there it was … middle of my cheek … a big fat swollen ZIT!  Boy … it was painful to even touch it!

If it was a black head or something I would have pop that (I know I am not supposed to, but I have a thing about picking zits), but the zit was under many layers of skin; so popping was out of the question.

With that said … I remembered reading somewhere that you can put hydrocortisone lotion on the pimple and put a band-aid over it overnight.

Apparently, hydrocortisone works over night and keeping it covered with a band-aid makes it work faster and more efficiently.

I have a very sensitive skin so I can’t use any regular band-aids because the adhesive is too strong and leave a “burn-like” mark on my skin.  Unfortunately, I hold scars very well so the adhesive mark will be there for a long time.

So … the only band-aid I can use is the Nexcare Active Extra Cushion Bandages.  It is Latex-Free, and it actually holds very well and does not burn my skin.

Well … well … well … it worked!  I couldn’t believe it!!!!

The blemish is still there, but it is not a mountain on my cheek and it is not painful anymore!

I am out of words to describe how little things like that make me soooo happy!

I have spent tons of money, in the past, on zit ointments and washes, and even used old-wives-tales about toothpastes and etc.

Don’t wish a large zit on your face, but next time you have a blemish use this technique!

I have to get a tube just to put it on my makeup table!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Better … safer … cheaper … no pain liposuction?

Sign me up baby!!!

I have always wanted a liposuction and a tummy tuck, but I always chicken-out at the end.

I shouldn’t care how my belly looks like and should have higher self-esteem (God know that is what we are trying to teach our kids), but having kids made my belly look less then desirable.

My husband loves me the way I am and I would never blame my kids because we wanted each and every kid … they are our gifts!!!

I always had in mind, before I got pregnant with my first child, that my belly would grow and that I would still be skinny and beautiful!  Well, that changed because I ate everything and anything … if it was edible I ate it!

There are some women who look beautiful when they are pregnant (you know they just look like RIGHT), but with me it was total opposite.  I am not being modest or even exaggerate … I just looked awkward and uncomfortable.

My body just exploded and my stretch-marks had stretch-marks, and I looked like I should be carrying at least twins (which I wasn’t).

My doctor told me that I did gain excess weight and that some people have stretch-marks no matter what they do (or how much weight they gain) and other don’t … it’s all genetics!

I guess I was the unlucky ones … I started to get stretch-marks long before I start gaining weight!  Boo-hoo!!!

Anyhow, I always wanted a liposuction and have a tummy tuck because I looked like I have a butt on my belly … my youngest would say to me “mommy … you have two butts!  One in front and one in back!  That’s funny!”

I tell you … kids know exactly what to say to make you feel better!!

However, with that said, I can’t imagine going through the anesthesiology, endure pain and financial commitments to look and feel better; never-mind being out of commission for week or two for my kids!

Well, my hubby accidentally stumbled up on ZERONA.

Apparently it has received tons of great reviews and became main stream because it’s not a surgery.  It is a non-invasive body contouring treatment proven clinically and approved by the FDA.  Procedure itself has been extensively researched since 1998 to reduce fat cells and reducing up to 6 inches of your waist.

Here are other perks:

1.     Only device that does not harm fat cells (important because fat cells maintain hormones and immune systems)
2.    NO pain
3.    NO surgery
4.    NO Downtime (it’s like getting a facial)
5.    Decreases you appetite
6.    Decreases your BAD cholesterol
7.    Increase your good cholesterol

ZERONA has been seen on Rachel Ray Show, The Early Show, EXTRA, a.m.northwest, NEWS 8, and Channel 5 News.

Unlike “ONE” time deal with traditional liposuction, to receive maximum effect of ZERONA the laser sessions are divided up to six – 40 minute treatments.

While ZERONA claim people, on average, will lose around 4-6 inches off your waist some patients have lost 7-11 inches!

I can’t believe it!!!

Depending on where you live, which office you choose, and what kind of promotional deals you can find the average cost of FULL Six-session treatment will run around $2,500.

It is still quite expensive, but it is much cheaper than traditional liposuction.  With the traditional liposuction you have to count your plastic surgeon cost, anesthesiologists cost, hospital costs, pain medicines, and child care costs (not including lots of takeouts!).

In many instances, insurances will not cover plastic surgeries because it is an elective surgery; which leaves you with paying everything out of your pocket.

My hubby and I are really excited, and I am definitely going this route!  Early Christmas Gift?  Maybe?

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Things are getting tighter and tigher these days; and I am not talking about jean sizes.

In order to make ends meet, people are cutting back on visits to restaurants, grocery, electricity and gas consumption, and expensive labels – luxury things in life that we enjoy so much.

You all probably know, cost of living is simply defined as cost of maintaining a certain standard of living (or lifestyle).  If you enjoy shopping for expensive brands, living in a million (plus) dollar mansion, driving a Bentley then you better make lots of money to maintain this type of lifestyle.  However, most of us don’t live in a million dollar mansion nor drive a Bentley, but still have to pay our bills.

Unfortunately, increase in cost of living is not only designated to U.S. (it just feels like worse here because we live here and felt our pockets getting dryer by the day).  According to The Sydney Morning Herald, up to 3.7 million Australians will be unable to cope with cost of living if it increases (because of lack of savings), gas prices are rising uncontrollably in Saskatchewan (The Vancouver Sun), and Drought and food price increase are sparking fear of violence in Africa.

It seems like everything is falling apart, but we all have to be optimistic and survive this wave!  We can do it!

Before going off on tangent here … I would like to share with you things I have cut back on in order to maintain our lifestyle successfully.

I have been using much more coupons on my shopping trips, going less out to the restaurants, and staying away from malls and department stores.  My theory is that if I don’t go to the mall then I will not see things on sale; therefore, I will not spend money. 

Six months ago I decided to cut down on all of our luxury goods and services, and within few weeks I felt resentment.  The pressure of “I can’t have it” got the best of me and started to feel angry.  My husband told me that “it is OK to reward yourself with something (little things) so you don’t feel resentment.  What is the point of working so hard if you can’t treat yourself once in a while?”  Do you know what?  He was right.

I can’t believe spending $20 a week ($80/month) just for myself felt really great.  I don’t go out for lunch with my girlfriends, I don’t get my hair done (trying to grow it out), and I don’t get massages; so my entertainment costs are low.  Thus, I save up my “fun money” and buy myself something big rather than getting many knick-knacks. 

One of the guilt pleasures I enjoy the most is perfume/cologne.  I believe there is nothing in world more sensual then perfume.  I love bold, romantic and sophisticated perfumes: i.e. Chanel No. 5, Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, Donna Karan Cashmere, Chleo, and few of others (no imitation colognes and perfumes here). 

I guess I have expensive taste on perfumes (let’s blame my mother because she adores expensive perfumes) because my favorite perfumes run around $100 for a small bottle.  Yup … way too expensive! 

So in order to save some money, without resorting to using perfumes I did not enjoy, I ordered imitation colognes and perfumes through an online vendor.   I ordered an imitation Chanel No. 5, Chanel Mademoiselle, and Donna Karan Cashmere at $6.95 a piece (it’s a large bottle … can’t remember the exact measurement).

After it arrived at my house I immediately sprayed on Chanel Mademoiselle to see how close it was to the original brand.  Hmmmm … the scent was close if you smell the perfume alone, but as soon as you sniff the original brand then it was a total give away. There was a subtle differences in imitation vs the original one. 

There is no free lunch, and you get what you pay for.

I am going to save up my “fun” money and stick with the original brands.  This was an important experiment, and ladies and gents … stick with the original!  There is no such a thing as perfect-match imitation colognes and perfumes!!

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Do you have sensitive skin?

Do you have dark spots and/or have scar(s) on your face?

Have you already tried over the counter micro-abrasion products (i.e. Susan Lucci’s Youthful Essence or L’Oreal or Neutrogena) that were less than what you expected?

Are you reluctant to go see dermatologist to get professional micro-abrasion procedure done that would cost you hundreds of dollars?

Like most you of ladies (and gents) I have similar problems and concerns.  Not only these professional procedures, whether it’s micro-abrasion or chemical peels, are expensive but it’s really not that practical.

I have three dark spots (scars actually) on my face and it drove me crazy for five years.  I have best tried to cover these spots with concealers (from green to peach to lighter shade beige colors) and extra powder makeup; but unfortunately, when people look at my face they automatically think it’s age spots.

I think I can live with these so-called “age spots” on my face, but people careless add additional 5 to 10 years to my age.

I don’t know about you ladies and gents out there, but ever since I reached my thirties everything seems to be falling apart.  It just happened one day … I woke up and looked at my face and asked myself “what the heck did you do to yourself? “

I used to be vibrant, young, and didn’t have wrinkles on my face, but now I have uneven skin pigmentation, freckles to choke a leprechaun, wrinkles around my eyes and forehead, and so on.  I wish I can trade-in my body for a younger and tighter body!  A girl can dream right?

My turning point to see a dermatologist happened when a male sales associate, in the mall, pointed out my “age spots” (even though I thought I have successfully covered it up with my makeup) and said “You must be in your forties!  Why don’t you try one of our products?”  I was in utter shock when he told me that.

The disturbing thing is that not only I am not in my forties, but the spots on my face are not “age spots,” but scars from squeezing my zits too hard until layers of skin came off.  Yes I know … I have a sickness here!

Unfortunately I have my mother’s very sensitive skin – I scar very easily and I hold onto my scars for years.  I am still carrying my scars on my legs, from my teens, when I fell and scraped it – the scraped areas didn’t even bleed, but it’s dark and big – I think you know where I am getting here.

Anyhow … back to my story here.  So I finally had the courage to go see a dermatologist to see my options to get rid of these “spots” and get some advice for my skin.

The technician educated me on my options – micro-abrasion, chemical peels and bleaching creams.  The micro-abrasion and chemical peels were only practical when you buy a package bundle from them because I would save about $100 or so — (six treatments for $600).

But … and there is a but here.

You have to have “touch up” or “maintenance” session every four to six weeks to sustain the “glow” on your face.

I don’t know about you ladies, but I am not ready to have such committed “treatments” every month to maintain my thirties look.

I know I am not in my twenties and I know I will never look like I am in my twenties; and frankly I don’t want to.

There is a famous Chinese proverb “Men grow old, pearls grow yellow, there is no cure for it (HeartQuotes),” and my favorite by an unknown author “do not regret growing older.  It is a privilege denied to many (QuoteGarden).”

Don’t get me wrong here … I want to look my best for my age, but I don’t want to look or try so hard to fool people to think that I am in my twenties.

So with that said I had eliminated the micro-abrasion and chemical peel options for now, thus I went forward to using the Lustra-Ultra (Hydroquinone USP 4%) cream.

Like I have mentioned before I have been using the cream for three weeks now – one application in the morning and the second application before I go to bed; and what a difference!!!

At first my “spots” looked darker and I was really hesitant to continue with the treatment, but the technician told me that I have to use it for couple of months to see the difference.

Thank goodness I continued using it because it really lightened my spots!!!

I no longer have to cover the spots with extra cream concealers or extra powder.  One powder application and bada-boom it’s all covered up!

However, it is important to mention it to you guys, but the applied areas of the skin tend to peel – well, that’s what happened to my skin.  I didn’t really notice the peeling until I put on my powder foundation – boy, it was ugly!  So every morning I scrub my face and my face looks awesome.

I think it’s amazing and the technician was really surprised that my “dark spots” lightened up that quickly – I guess my sensitive skin did have some blessing in the end.

So ladies and gentleman … try the bleaching creams before running to your local dermatologist and spend hundreds of dollars on micro-abrasion treatments or chemical peels.

With that said … I might go take advantage of micro-abrasions in the future.  Who knows … if I win the jack pot soon I might get it done sooner than expected.

Here are some pros and cons – reviews from me and others online.

Pros:

1)    Lightens up the spots – can see the result as soon as couple of weeks

2)    An individual mentioned that it lightened up her dark patches from Melasma

3)    The bottle looks really small, but if you have small areas to take care then it’ll last you forever!   I have three dime size dark spots on my face and all I need is a small dab on very top of the q-tip.

4)    Cream is thick enough that it doesn’t run off

5)    The cream has been working very well with my existing anti-aging face lotion – ProVectin

Cons:

1)    Expensive – our local Walgreens charged me $145 (and some change); however, the company does have mail in rebate of $50

2)    Have to go see a dermatologist/physician to get the prescription

3)    There is no real generic form of this specific bleach cream – there are products that have 4% hydroquinone and sunscreen, but do not have vitamins E and c and some other stuff – So it’s not identical – that’s what my pharmacist told me.

4)    Some say it has a bad smell to it (mine doesn’t smell or I can’t smell it because I use so little on my face).

5)    Hydroquinone is under fire by the FDA

6)    There is no money back guarantee if the cream doesn’t work – on the other hand what other medicine does; right?  If my antibiotics do not work I can’t take it back to the pharmacist and ask for money back and etc.  So I think this negative pointer is flawed.

7)    Individuals with sensitive skin types should test the product before using because it can peel skin off; but I think that’s the whole purpose of it – Not sure.

With all that said … I love it because it has drastically lightened up my scars!!  I would definitely recommend to my friends and family.

Reference:

HeartQuotes: Quotes of the Heart.  http://www.heartquotes.net/age.html

QuoteGarden.  http://www.quotegarden.com/age.html

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Like most of you ladies out there I have become semi-desperate to look youthful again.

Unfortunately, I have been a sun LOVER in my younger days – SO … not only I have fine lines all over my face from the sun damage, but my face is covered with freckles (big and little ones) as well.

I have tried so many different anti-aging lotion and cream products (“reasonable” priced products), but I have YET found my “fountain of youth” product.

Provectin

While I was at my local Walgreen store I encountered a Provectin cream – copy of the famous StriVectin lotion.

If you didn’t already know this, but the discovery of StriVectin-SD was a pure “dumb luck” according to Gina Gay, Spokesperson of Klein-Becker, StriVectin-SD’s exclusive distributor.

StriVectin was formulated to diminish stretch marks, however, it works miraculously well on decreasing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

Well, I have been using Provectin lotion for three weeks now (two times a day – morning under my makeup, and night time before I go to bed), and I am quite happy with it.

My husband even told me that I had the “glow.”  The lotion brightened my skin so much that he thought I was pregnant; which I wasn’t.

Provectin has the clean smell to it (but my husband is not too crazy about the smell though), it is very light, and it hasn’t given me zits (or any other skin break outs).

However, I haven’t REALLY noticed the disappearance or decreases in fine lines on my face though – I think!

The bottom line review from me – I am happy with it and I am going to keep on using it.

I did use Dermitage (got it as a gift), BUT I was really disappointed with it – I had such bad breakouts (zits and whiteheads all over my face) – I stopped using it after three days.  AND it took me over two weeks to clear my skin!!!  I will write a review about Dermitage on another post.

Online “Export” reviews were:

Good – available in many stores (brick and mortar and online stores), no commitment from website to buy; inexpensive “treatment” product on the market.

Bad – No official manufacturer; paraben preservative present in the product; no money back guarantee (however, Walgreens do take their products back if you are not happy with it, and have the original receipt upon refund).

On the other hand, consumer reviews are rather more positive – Honestly, I take consumer reviews more seriously than the “experts” because expert reviews might biased … you know what I mean.

Pros :
1.     Clean feel
2.    Gentle and refreshing
3.    Younger looking skin
4.    Great on sensitive skin
5.    Face feels firmer
6.    Face look more radiant
7.    Evens out skin tone
8.    Easy to use

Cons:
1.     Contained paraben

All-in-all, out of five stars it was rated between 4 star to 5 stars – there were so many satisfied customers – of all the online reviews I have looked into there were no one person NOT happy with the product.

The con item came from one of the websites I looked at and he/she just paraphrased the Performance leader website review on the product regarding paraben preservative.

So there it is ladies – use it and if you are not satisfied with it just return it – it’s only $29.99.

Reference:

Buzziollions.com  Retrieved on 3/28/2009 from http://www.buzzillions.com/dz_216278_skin_essentials_provectin_plus_advanced_reviews?prRo=5#bz-model-reviewTitle

The Performance Leader: in-depth health & beauty product reviews.  Theperformanceleader.com  Retrieved on 3/28/2009 from http://www.theperformanceleader.com/provectin-review

Walgreens Product review.  Retrieved on 3/28/2009 from http://www.walgreens.com/reviews/pwr/product-reviews/Beauty-Spa/Skin-Care-Hand-Body/Skin-Firming-Products/Skin-Essentials/p/prod1401617-ProVectin-Plus-Advanced-Wrinkle-Repair-For-Fine-Lines-and-Deep-Wrinkles.html

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I can be a real SUCKER for beauty products; especially if they claim to make you look younger.

The older I am getting the more desperate I am becoming.

In the Economist magazine “Medieval noblewomen swallowed arsenic and dabbed on bats’ blood to improve their complexions; 18th-century Americans prized the warm urine of young boys to erase their freckles … The pain has not stopped the passion  from creating a $160 billion-a-year global industry … and … Americans spend more each year on beauty than they do on education (The beauty business).”

I am not that desperate to put urine on my face, but I would probably save lots of money by just getting a cosmetic and plastic surgery once rather than spending my money on different beauty products every few weeks or so – it’s just trial and error thing.

I have used and tried many products, by word of mouth by my friends or neighbors or beauty consultants and etc., but I really didn’t see significant difference to continue using the product – I haven’t said “wow, I found youth in a bottle” yet.

Yes, there are many products I am happy with, but in not in LOVE with.

Alright, back to the beauty stuff …

I have tried Susan Lucci’s Youthful Essence — basically, it a microdermabrasion home-kit skin care like Neutrogena and Lorel’s, but bit more expensive.

First of all, Youthful Essence is delivered to you automatically to your home every 90 days, but the funds are withdrawn from your checking account or credit card every month – amount of $35 (including shipping/handling charge).

I was really excited to use it for the first two weeks (honestly, my face felt like a baby’s butt on the first day), but I didn’t see any real difference in two weeks of usage.

My darkened skin (from scars) areas didn’t lighten up or “disappeared,” my wrinkles didn’t smooth away or diminished the look of wrinkles, and etc.

Susan Lucci claimed in the “Youthful Essence website “Polish away the years … you’re going to love the results!”  Youthful Essence

Well, not so much Lucci!

It’s really easy to fall for her advertisements and video comments because she looks so dang good – she hasn’t changed at all!  Of course, being really desperate doesn’t allow you to make rational choices either!

Basically all the pros and cons are similar all across the board –

Pros:
1)    Money back guarantee from official website
2)    Skin feels softer and smoother
3)    Disappearance of fine lines

Cons:
1)    Resurfacing cream crystals are hard to wash off
2)    Price
3)    Smell is not that great
4)    Have to join the club
5)    Can irritate real sensitive skin
6)    Complicated application procedure (use it every day for 3-5 days in a row, skip a week, and every day new facial areas are washed only)
7)    Some discoloration may occur
8)    Poor customer service – many claimed to have difficult time returning their products
9)    After returning it successfully some found additional charges from youthfulessence company – which took additional weeks to clear out

Even though there are more cons than pros here there are more number of people who are happy with the product than disappointed – average rating of 3 stars out of 5.

My wonderful husband told me after I returned Lucci’s products, with tremendous disappointments, that Lucci gets the best of the best: i.e. personal trainers, weekly/monthly salons and spas, professional beauty treatments, and she doesn’t have to chase after three kids, driving the kids to different activities, cleaning up the house, cooking for the family, and etc.

After he assured me how beautiful I was I started to think “dang, he is right!”

She doesn’t have to all the things we have to do, and if I had less stress and all the money in the world to “take care of myself” than I would look real good to!

The beauty business.  The Economist.  May 22, 2003.  Retrieved from http://www.economist.com/printedition/displaystory.cfm?story_id=1795852 on February 26, 2009.

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After having three kids, my body doesn’t look and feel the same way as it used to be.

Oh, I Wish!

Before the kids, I was in size 8, I had six-packs, my thighs didn’t rub against each other, and definitely did not have excess belly skin – I used to wear two piece bathing suits!

 I wouldn’t trade any of my children to get my body back; however, I want to feel sexy and young again. 

I have done extensive research on body enhancement surgeries and procedures, but I am still torn between getting a tummy tuck or take advantage of Thermage procedure.

Most of you already know what’s involved in tummy tucks, but you might not know about Thermage.

Thermage

Before we get into the juicy part here is my problem.

I do have belly issues (after pregnancies), but it isn’t that BAD (but bad enough to wear a tummy control underwear).

I have three children so I don’t want to be bed-ridden for weeks to recover from the procedure, but I want to see the results and have the results for a long time.

Okay … my problems are on the table; so we’ll discuss both procedures.

With a tummy tuck and a liposuction the cosmetic and pastic surgeon removes excess skin to give you a tighter, flatter, and firmer belly (often times they also fix your abdominal muscles by stitching it back to its original position).

Another major benefit of TT is removing stretched mark skin (and flabby skin) when the surgeon pulls down your upper abdominal skin before stitching you back – I am not going to get into details since most of you are already aware of the procedure.

On the other hand, there are many side effects or cons of TT. 

For instance, it is a major surgery (and an expensive surgery – average cost $6,200), you need to find a qualified doctors (you have seen or heard horror stories of women getting butchered by some surgeons), there will be a serious scarring, and the procedures involves lengthy recovery time.

Now … let’s talk about Thermage.

Thermage is a non-invasive procedure using capacitive radiofrequency (RF) technology to stimulate existing collagen to promote new collagen to grow (up to six months following a single treatment), and average cost of this procedure is about $3,200.

The procedure takes about couple of hours to complete, and involves deep but brief heating sensation on your skin. 

Patient Receiving Thermage

The procedure is FDA cleared for non-invasive treatment (most patients return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure), and the results can last for years (depending on your skin condition and natural aging process).

It sounds all honky dory (and I was really excited about the procedure), but out of 132 reviews in realself.com 37% say it was worth it, and 63% said it was not worth it.

Generally, people said it can hurt as heck, and either didn’t see the result (within couple of months or so) or the results didn’t last long enough.

In some instances, the results were so minimal that they were told they might need to come in for another procedure/treatment – some patients come in every year to get the treatment done (so, the cost will accumulate eventually). 

All-in-all, 63% of the women said to save your money, and it was a waste of money! 

Patient education is important; so, what shall I do … what shall I do?

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Are you in thirties (early or later), and can’t find a great facial lotion and cream?

Lotions you have tried in the past are either too greasy or not greasy enough to moisturize your face?

Garnier Skin Renew

Try Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Sun Damage Daily Moisture Lotion.

I bought the lotion with little to no expectation that it’ll help my skin, but it totally surprised me.  My uneven skin tone is evening out, and I have not gotten any zits from it.

I am in my thirties and my face is not “old” enough to use anti-aging lotions, but “too old” to use cheap over the counter lotions.

I have tried all different kinds of lotions – over the seas products (from my cousin), catalogue lotions (Arbonne – NutriMin C RE9), cosmetic department lotions (Clinique), and other cheaper lotions at Wal–Mart (Aveeno, Oil of Olay, and Neutrogena).

First and foremost, Arbonne NutriMin C TR 9 lotions are too expensive – I think spent over $150 for the set, and I was really disappointed at the end.

I was first impressed, in the beginning, when I used the lotion that tightens up your face.  However, after a week of use I no longer felt my skin tightening up anymore.

Also, I wound up getting whole bunch of zits (under skin zits); which were very painful and irritating.  My face got so bad that I wound up seeing my dermatologist, and he told me that my face skin was not mature enough to use anti-aging products.

This also went same with Oil of Olay Regenerist product line – I stopped using it after two weeks.  The company said money back and satisfaction guarantee, but I was not about to go through paper work process to my $50 back.

Clinique lotions were nice, but it was not greasy enough to use at winter time (during the winter months my face literally peels because I have different skin types on my face).

Aveeno and Neutrogena products were nice, but I was not totally impressed with it.  Granted I only spent $10 for a bottle of lotion, my uneven skin did not tone down all that much.

If you are willing to spent $12 I would recommend Garnier product – just try it.

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Do you have extra $100 plus to buy yourself a flat iron? 

Flat Iron

Well, I don’t know about you guys, but between providing for three kids, mortgage payment, utility and car payments, insurances, and other financial commitments made every month I don’t think I have money left to get my hair done.

Alright, you are right – it’s not that BAD, but $100 for a flat iron?  Come on!  The economy is not that great, and my husband works very hard for his pay check (like most of you guys)!

I have a hairstylist friend, and her professtional advice on the flat iron was the Chi Flat Iron – they are supposedly the best flat iron she has ever used.

She did offered me to get the flat iron at her cost, but it’s still $80 (without taxes of course) – sorry, I haven’t won the lotto yet.

So, I thought I was going to be clever and buy one on internet – sometimes I amaze myself. 

The cheapest one I found (online stores) were running around $79; it was the older model  and didn’t include sales tax or shipping and handling fees.

Then I checked out ebay store figuring maybe I’ll find a decent one at cheaper cost – you never know about an auction site!

Of course, ebay did have “little” better price, but it was still over $70; even with free shipping and handling.
I was really bummed out, and went to WalMart to buy something for my hair. 

I was torn between the Conair and Remington, and the price differences were only $5 more for Conair.  I do have Conair curling iron at home, and I had it for over seven years – it never gave me headache and I can always count on it.

However, I went with Remington Wet and Dry flat iron, and it is AWESOME!  I have very heavy and straight hair, but it works beautifully on my hair. 

I spent only $24, including sales tax, and I really can’t complain – I LOVE IT.

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I have dealt with acne, on my face, for a LONG time, and it seems like it’s never ending.  However, I have to be grateful that my acne condition is not severe by any means, but enough to drive me NUTS. 

Acne is described as “plugged pres, pimples, and even deeper lumps that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms.*”

I have different types of acne on my face: i.e. whiteheads, blackheads, and papules, so I have tried many different products Click Here!.  

If you are not familiar with the types of acne here are some information (What’s That Zit?):

1) Whiteheads happen when the pore is completely blocked; so the bump is formed with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells (three amigos).
2) Blackheads happen when the pore is partially blocked so the three amigos partially drain on to the surface of skin.
3) Papules happen when the zit is inflamed, tender and red with no head – it’s quite painful to the touch.

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I have tried many different types and brands of beauty products; from liquid to powder to Clinique to Maybelline (including Dermablend).  Honestly — I have a very temperamental skin. 

For instance, my face gets very oily during summer times and dry-peely skin during cold seasons.  In addition to that I have white heads, blotchy red spots on my face, brown spots (due to compulsion to pick zits until I bleed and create scars), sensitive to different lotions (especially to Oil of Olay and lotions including fruit acids), severe freckles, and yellow undertone.

I know what you are thinking – “she is messed up!”  Trust me, I don’t blame you!!

Liquid makeup does have better coverage; however, I break out if I don’t wash my face within six hours.

I really liked Dermablend Cream cosmetics because of superior coverage, but the makeup breaks down on my face even if I use the loose setting powder.  I know this product is designed to cover Vitiligo, birthmarks, Rosacea and other pigmentation disorders, but I liked the flawless look.

My husband likes me wear makeup, but not to that extent – he jokes around “did you put the makeup on with a shovel?”  I know he sounds very insensitive, but he gives me honest answers.  Seriously, I would be mortified if I go out of the house and people make fun of me or talks behind my back – you know?

Anyhow, after many unsuccessful and expensive trials to find makeup I decided to try Bare minerals/Bare Escentual private label product.  I love how easy and quick it is  – brush brush all done.  Personally speaking there are two downsides to this product: 1) it doesn’t have total coverage like the infomercial claimed, 2) it is rather expensive. 

I have read and heard people say it lasts them over three months, but I go through them every month and a half so.  Thus, for me it gets quite expensive; so I tried Maybelline powder and Everyday Mineral. 

Price points were great, but it does not have the glow to it.  It covers fine, but I kind of expected more from it – but you get what you pay.

After many months of trial I am now back to bare minerals.  I guess it’s not as “pure” as everyday mineral, but I am happy with it.

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