With the passing of my friend Jen Bunich, I have been fortunate enough to get to know some of Jen’s wonderful friends who loved her very much. I had a lovely conversation with Kaylee who enjoys skincare and makeup as much as I do — well, probably not as obsessive as I am but enough that I thought about sharing a few skincare items that I have used and still use that I think really can make a difference.I admit that I used to be an avid tanner (tanning beds and the sun) when I was younger and although I now wear sunscreen everyday the damage to my skin has already been done. No you cannot see it yet – but in a few years it will start to rear its ugly face. I am in full denial and am trying to diminish whatever damage I have done.

My skin is very sensitive and oily. I have found over the years that I am allergic to Salicylic Acid which is found in most acne products. I can only use Benzoyl Peroxide. I am also allergic to PABA which is found in most sunscreens and tanning products. I always looks for the words “PABA Free”.

Here are some products that I have used – some great, some not so great.

**PRIMERS**

Ultra Sheer Dry SPF 30, by Neutrogena – $8.99
I wear stuff this everyday on my face. It is great and it works as a ‘base’ for my makeup. I love it.

The Present by Philosophy – $25.00
This is a clear oil control liquid. It’s a nice product. Make sure your skin is moisturized before you use it. I like to use it on my forehead before I put any makeup on.

Photo Finish by Smashbox – $36.00
This is an oil control primer. I like this much better than The Present. It’s very silky and really can make you feel as it you have flawless skin. Make sure your skin is moisturized before you use it.

Prep + Prime by MAC – $22.00
I love MAC products. I always have. The Prep + Prime has a shimmer to it that is so subtle and just beautiful when you apply it. The only draw back is that the product runs out fast. Maybe I use too much of it!

**PUFFY EYES**
One too many cocktails and a late night can lead to puffy mess. In addition to drinking lots of water, I found that elevating my pillow helped alleviate the pooling of fluid under my eyes.

Hope in a Tube by Philosophy – $33.00
I didn’t see any results. It was moisturizing though.

Depuffing Action Eye Gel by Benefit – $26.00
This stuff is great. It burns a little, better to put on skin that is moisturized. It works well.

Baggage Handler by Bliss – $28.00
Cucumber and cornflower extracts and fine line-whittling wheat proteins. I like this products, but results were not as good as the Depuffing by Benefit.

No Puffery by Origins – $20.00
This is my favorite product for depuffing. Contains Yeast Extract and it brightens and lightens dark circles and Hoelen Mushroom Extract calms surrounding skin to help keep redness from settling in. The directions say to wipe off after 10 mins, but I left on all day and let it soak in.

**EYE CREAMS**

Night A Mints by Origins – 28.50
I didn’t see great results. It was moisturizing but that’s it.

High Resolution Eye with Fibrelastine by Lancome – $52.00
This stuff if great. The company says immediately your eye area appears brighter. I didn’t really see that, but after a few weeks, I really could see a reduction in fine lines around my eyes. I’ll use this stuff forever.

Instant Chemistry Quick Lift by Joey – $45.00
I do believe this product is working. My lines on my forehead have not disappeared, but they are softer. I am not sure that I will buy more once the product is gone. You can buy it a ULTA too. I’d like to try something different.

**FACIAL MOISTURIZERS & WRINKER FIGHTERS**

Hope in a Jar by Philosophy – $38.00
This is a good moisturizer. Sometimes I think it is a little too heavy or it doesn’t soak in enough for me.

High Resolution with Fibrelastine by Lancome  - $74.00 (1.7 oz)
This is wonderful stuff. I can see a different in my skin after a few weeks. I use it morning and night. It can be pricey, I always buy it at the Lancome counter when they are having a special so you can get a whole gift set. It will last several months. Order some smaller sizes on EBay to try it out.

High Resolution with Collaster-48 by Lancome – $62.00 (1.0 oz)
This product is also wonderful. It’s called 48 hr because the company says you can see results in just 48 hours. I can see a difference. I use this around my eyes and forehead and use the Fibrelastine everywhere else (my cheeks and neck). This is a thicker formula. Order some smaller sizes on EBay to try it out.

LaMer Moisturizing Cream by LaMer – $125.00 (1 oz)
Yes, this is super pricey, but I swear it is some amazing stuff. I cannot describe it. My skin is just glowing now. My husband even loves it which makes it easier when I tell him I spent $125 on some ‘cream’. The website offers free 2nd day shipping on all orders and includes a free samples. Order some smaller sizes on EBay to try it out.

Stay tuned, I’ll post some of my other products – like lotions and masks that I use regularly.