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Lifestyle

Agency Skincare Review- Custom Skincare Made For Your Specific Needs

Posted on June 30, 2021

Agency Skincare Review- Custom Skincare Made For Your Specific Needs

I have gotten to a place where I’m feeling confident in my skin. However, I have a few trouble areas and concerns that even after trying a heap of different products, are still bothersome to me. AGENCY is totally different than anything I’ve ever tried. I’m blown away with the process and the products.

AGENCY is personalized, research-backed skincare made for you by a licensed provider. All from your home. No in-person appointments needed. I know. Crazy, right?! I was very impressed.

HOW IT WORKS:

Step 1: Share your skincare/anti-aging goals and your specific wants and concerns with your provider. You also send over pictures of your skin so your provider can have a comprehensive understanding of your needs.

Step 2: Your custom Future Formula and/or Dark Spot Formula is created and delivered to your doorstep.

Step 3: You begin implementing the products into your skincare routine. Your skincare provider then checks in to ask how you are doing and can adjust your products over time as needed. Refills will ship directly to your doorstep every two months.

WHAT I LOVED ABOUT IT:

I loved that I was able to implement products to help my specific needs into my current routine. I chatted with my provider about the products I was already using to make sure everything would work together seamlessly.

When I was pregnant with Wilder I developed a dark spot on my chin that really bothers me. I’ve tried over a dozen products over the last couple years and nothing has seemed to fade the spot. Trying products that don’t work feels like such a waste of money and is frustrating. I loved this dark spot treatment that was made just for me. After three years it is finally lightening up! My Dark Spot Formula has been so great for hyperpigmentation and dark spots on my skin.

The products had a very luxurious consistency. The texture was super creamy.

THINGS TO NOTE:

Products are vegan and cruelty-free.
They will tell you specific instructions on when/how to use your products.
Your name and all of the ingredients are on the bottle!

WHAT IS IN IT:

All products will have varying ingredients based on your needs. I added pictures of the backs of my bottles as an example.

Future Formula: Contains 4 active ingredients along with aloe and vitamin E.

My Future Formula includes:
*exact formulation will vary from person to person!

Tretinoin *prescription-strength
Gold-standard prescription retinoid derived from vitamin A
NOT a retinol (which is available over-the-counter)—tretinoin is a prescription-only ingredient!
Helps boost cell turnover and treat fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots

Tranexamic Acid
Has anti-inflammatory properties
Helps fade dark spots such as melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Niacinamide
An industry-favorite topical form of Vitamin B
Helps improve elasticity and soften fine lines

ProVitamin B
Helps lock in moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier
Helps heal skin with its regenerative properties

Dark Spot Formula: 4 active ingredients and vitamin E.

My Dark Spot Formula includes:
*exact formulation will vary from person to person!

Azelaic acid
Helps treat multiple skin concerns at once
Helps fade dark spots, reduce redness, and improve skin texture

Kojic acid
A natural antioxidant derived from fungi
Helps fade and prevent discoloration such as sun spots and melasma

Resveratrol
An antioxidant that helps repair damage, fade dark spots, and boost collagen production

Green tea extract
Rich in antioxidants
Helps hydrate the skin, soothe inflammation, and fade dark spots

HOW CAN I TRY?

I’ve truly never found anything quite so unique on the market and I’d love for you to get to experience AGENCY as well!

They have given me a custom sign up link for you to try your first month of custom skincare. Your first month is free! You only pay $4.95 for shipping. Click HERE to get started with AGENCY.

** Thank you to AGENCY for sponsoring this post and providing the products for me to try and give my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I will never share anything I don’t truly use and LOVE! **

Lifestyle

My Honest Review Of Rodan + Fields SOOTHE Regimen Skincare

Posted on March 24, 2021

My Honest Review Of Rodan + Fields SOOTHE Regimen Skincare

Thank you to Rodan + Fields for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rodan + Fields launched their SOOTHE Regimen, which is a 4-step skincare routine that is specifically designed for sensitive, red, dry, irritated skin and uncomfortable skin. The goal is to calm those issues and refresh your skin for a better night’s rest.

The line is formulated to improve dry and irritated skin by replenishing moisture. The ingredients used are soothing, like colloidal oatmeal and proprietary RFp2 Peptides, or seven essential ceramides that work to strengthen the moisture-barrier and also help address visible flare-ups for clearer skin.

I have been suffering with severely dry skin that causes me to scratch at it like crazy. It’s extremely uncomfortable, but also it has caused it to be very sensitive to many products that had previously worked for my skin.

Rodan + Fields sent me their SOOTHE Regimen since it is formulated to help with these issues for my honest review.

It’s important to me to find products that are sulfate-free. These are soap-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and also dermatologist tested.

My Review Of The 4-Step Soothe Regimen for Sensitive Skin –

Step 1: SOOTHE Calming Gel Cleanser

My First Thoughts: It’s a non-foaming cleanser and I like that it does not have a strong scent. It was very gentle, but it was able to remove my makeup well. The formula is rich and it feels calming while applying. My skin felt notably softer after using the cleanser.

Product Info: The cleanser is formulated to cleanse skin without stripping the skin’s barrier which helps to calm and alleviate any discomfort. Made with glycerin to strengthen skin’s moisture barrier without disrupting pH. Also made with Bisabolol to calm dry skin and reduce redness.

Price: $45. You can find the SOOTHE Calming Gel Cleanser HERE.

Step 2: SOOTHE Sensitive Skin Treatment

My First Thoughts: After starting this lotion, I noticed a difference in my skin’s visible redness. It really helped protect my skin against the dry weather. When applying I’d also feel a soothing relief against the itchiness I was experiencing.

Product Info: Protects against after exposure to UV, pollution & everyday stressors. The skin treatment is derived from Cherimoya fruit extract, Allantoin (OTC 0.5%), Dimethicone (OTC 2%), Dual-Licorice Technology, Proprietary RFp2 Peptide Complex.

Price: $90. You can find the SOOTHE Sensitive Skin Treatment HERE.

Step 3: SOOTHE Moisturizing Rescue Cream

My First Thoughts: This was like a big “drink of water” for my skin… extra hydrating! With my extreme dry skin this was my favorite product from the line. It’s a cream product that is very rich and nourishing. It goes on very smoothly. Other rich, creamy hydrators I tried didn’t wear well under makeup. I was impressed that this was very smooth and wore well under my normal makeup routine.

Product Info: Seals in hydration and defends against sensitivity, environmental aggressors + irritants. Works to temporarily relieve itching, blotchiness, etc. Clinically tested on sensitive skin. Fragrance free + non- comedogenic. Made with 7 Essential Ceramides and Colloidal Oatmeal (1% OTC ).

Price: $60. You can find the SOOTHE Moisturizing Rescue Cream HERE.

Step 4: Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

My First Thoughts: I firmly believe the best thing you can do for your skin is adamantly wear SPF EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Cloudy day = sunscreen and a sunny day = sunscreen. I started this practice two years ago and have stuck to it ever since.

This was a very lightweight formula which makes it great for daily use. I can wear this in combination with my other skincare products and makeup without getting clogged pores or irritated skin. It’s totally fragrance free. It feels calming while applying.

Product Info: Protects skin from UVA/UVB rays and everyday environmental aggressors. Non- comedogenic and clinically tested on sensitive skin. Made from 100% Mineral- Based Sunscreen Actives, Artichoke Leaf Extract and patented RF3 Antioxidant Complex.

Price: $40. You can find Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 HERE.

How To Use The 4-Step Regimen:

** Use the SOOTHE Regimen twice daily in the AM + PM and avoid your eye area. **

Step 1: Cleanser – SOOTHE Calming Gel Cleanser (AM + PM)
1. Wet skin with lukewarm water.
2. Massage cleanser evenly onto face for 30-60 seconds.
3. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
Step 2: Treatment – SOOTHE Sensitive Skin Treatment (AM + PM)
1. Apply a thin layer evenly over face.
2. Do not rinse off.

Step 3: Moisturizer – SOOTHE Moisturizing Rescue Cream (AM + PM)
1. Apply a thin layer over face.

Step 4 AM: Moisturizer with Sunscreen – SOOTHE Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (AM)
1. Shake bottle well.
2. Apply a thin layer over your face and neck. Reapply every 2-3 hours when exposed to sun and after towel drying, swimming or sweating.

I wanted to share some clinical results that were given to me from Rodan + Fields.

CLINICAL RESULTS:*

Results After 4 Weeks:
*76% had less visible blotchiness
Results After 8 Weeks:
*30% better on visible redness
*4X better at evening skin tone/blotchiness appearance
*100% had less visible dryness
*94% had smoother skin
*Now calms dry, itchy skin for better sleep
*Strengthens skins barrier
*78% of subjects with eczema agreed they had less bothersome itchiness
*82% noticed more even-looking skin texture
*79% noticed skin feels balanced and less sensitive
*71% agreed skin looks calmer and more relaxed

*Based on an 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study. Results may vary depending on multiple factors: age, gender, skin type and condition, concomitant products used, health history, location, lifestyle and diet.

OVERALL THOUGHTS & OPINIONS:

I was very impressed with the way that it was able to calm my dry and irritated skin. After trying a variety of other products, I’ve never felt the kind of relief that I felt from the SOOTHE Regimen. At night, I have not been waking up due to uncomfortably itchy skin. That has been the biggest relief of all! The products are totally fragrance-free. My favorite product of the collection is the moisturizer because of it’s deep hydration.

Just wanted to note that I did still use other skincare products for different concerns in addition to this 4-step regimen.

After trying these products for review, I will continue to implement them into my skincare routine in addition to a few of my other tried and true favorites.

If you’d like to try any of these products they are available through Rodan + Fields Independent Consultants or HERE at rodanandfields.com

Lifestyle

Microneedling With PRP (AKA Vampire Facial) Review

Posted on October 21, 2020

Microneedling With PRP (AKA Vampire Facial) Review

First of all, if you are located in Nashville or Atlanta, Skinpharm is a must stop for your skincare needs! They evaluated my skin and chose a treatment plan and product regime that has completely transformed my skin. Thanks to Madeline at Skinpharm for breaking down all my many questions so I could share with ya’ll! They are all so knowledgable and I highly recommend a consultation with them to see what is best for your personal needs.

What It Is:

First, they will take your blood and “spin” it or remove the plasma from the red blood cells.
The plasma or “liquid gold” is then needled down into the skin. The blood drawn is a very small amount. I felt no effects from this.

What It Does:

PRP contains proteins and growth factors that help the skin repair itself. It promotes collagen and elastin production.

What Are The Benefits:

For me, I wanted to target some old acne scars. It also helps with evening out skin texture, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkeles, sun damage and more. The glow afterwards is unbeatable!

Does It Hurt?

The ladies at Skinpharm numbed my face, so while I felt the vibrations of the fine needles, there was no pain associated with the vibrations.

Misconception Of The “Vampire” Term:

So the term “Vampire facial” was conned because of the blood used in addition to the microneedling. However, no red blood is ever on your face…. you aren’t “bloody” at all. Only the plasma is used in the procedure.

I have gotten this done twice and will continue to get this procedure done quarterly. You see best results this way. It has transformed the hyperpigmentation of my skin, really made a difference in some old acne scarring and truly gives me a GLOW!

For me, I had zero side effects and little to no “down time.” However, make sure to talk to your practitioner about possible risks and make sure this is the right treatment plan for you.

Also, if you want to check out Skinpharm’s products I wanted to share a few of my favorites. I have gotten so many of my friends and families on these products and they are GAME CHANGERS. These are a few of my holy grail beauty products:

Glow Factor- Great for brightening. Packed with pure Vitamin C and E, antioxidants, and 0.5% ferulic acid.

Youth Serum- Number 1 favorite beauty product of all time! Tackling everything from dullness to firmness, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, redness, texture, and dryness. Like a big gulp of water for your skin. So hydrating!

100% Mineral Tinted SPF– If you are new to skincare and need to know where to start. START HERE> SPF is the best thing you can do to protect your skin. Their is a tint to this one and I use it for everyday as my foundation. It has the best glow and natural look.

Lifestyle

Best Beauty Finds On Sephora Sale

Posted on April 19, 2020

Best Beauty Finds On Sephora Sale.

It’s that time of year for the Sephora Beauty Insider Sale You can save anywhere from 10%-20% off of beauty must haves.

I’ve rounded my tried and true beauty favorites that are all a part of the sale. While we are all home it’s a great time to give yourself a little TLC with your skincare routine!

Best Beauty Finds On Sephora Sale-

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask- This has been my favorite mask lately. Leaves my skin feeling SO soft. I loved this one so much I purchased the rest of their line of products!

Summer Fridays Lip Balm– Absolute best lip balm for extra dry lips. It is a small sized bottle for the price, it’s just so good.

Coco Rose Body Polish- This will leave your skin feeling insanely soft and feels luxurious. It’s an excellent exfoliator.

Coconut Milk Bath Soak– One of my favorite ways to “self-care”. This makes a great gift as well.

Water Drench Eye Patches– These are the BEST to help with puffy and tired eyes. This combined with an ice roller is the dream team combination. They were the first thing I added to cart because they sell out frequently.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Liner– My everyday “nude lip” go to. I typically just wear this with the summer friday’s mentioned above lip balm. “Iconic nude” is my go to shade. When I want a little something extra I’ll add the lipgloss in shade “pillowtalk.”

Kerastase Purple Shampoo– Blondes.. you need this. It keeps the brassiness out and REALLY works.

Laniege Lip Mask- You sleep in this lip mask for super soft lips. It’s $20 so I love giving this as a little gift to friends.

Uncategorized

Best Nightly Skincare Routine

Posted on August 1, 2018

Best Nightly Skincare Routine

Skincare is the most important beauty regime for me. As I age, I realize that taking good care of your skin is SO important. If I could only go back to college age me and make sure I took all my makeup off after a night out… cringe worthy now.

Don’t get me wrong I love makeup, but good skin makes you glow from within. There isn’t much time for makeup these days, but I MAKE time each night for skincare. It seems like a lot, but I can complete this routine in about 10 minutes.

A few months ago, I reviewed a different moisturizer for a week each for six months. (You can find that HERE. )

After that experiment I was even more motivated to find the best possible skincare routine for hydrated and younger looking skin. I jumped on Instastories and asked for recommendations, and tried SO many of them.

Dr.Biesman is an amazing doctor here in Nashville that has previously done my Botox. (Along with so many celebrities!) His office recommended SkinMedica products, and I have LOVED them. The biggest difference in my skin started after implementing them into my daily/nightly routine.

BEST NIGHTLY SKINCARE ROUTINE

I start with removing my makeup. The simple makeup remover wipes are a drugstore/Target find and work great! For times when I had a lot of eye makeup I will use First Aid Beauty’s Micellar Makeup Melter. It is gently and not too greasy.

After removing all the makeup thoroughly, I use the Korres Greek Yoghurt Cleanser. You can keep this in the shower as well to incorporate into your shower routine. It has a great lather to it that isn’t too “soapy”, but leaves my face feeling so fresh and clean.

About two or three times a week I partner the cleansing with the Clarisonic. I was so late on the Clarisonic train, but I totally see why everyone loves it. Allure has a “best of beauty” awards and this is always on it. It helps to even out your skin, with firmness and with fine lines and wrinkles.

Anytime my lips are dry or flaky I will add Tarte’s Pout Prep Lip Exfoliant into the routine. I just add it on my lips and exfoliate and remove with a cool washcloth.

After fully cleansing my skin I move on to correcting. The TNS essential serum is the product I believe has given my skin the biggest difference in tone and texture. It contains antioxidants, peptides, and other age defying ingredients. It lightens age spots and helps foster the skins ability for cell renewal. It’s the product that gives me the most “radiance.” I know this one is on the pricier side, but I HIGHLY recommend.

Since my skin is typically dry and lacking moisture I double up a bit in this department. I start with SkinMedica’s Dermal Repair Cream It’s a really thick moisturizer so I like to do this one at night. It’s a bit too thick to wear under makeup for my daytime routine, but perfect at night. This one is blended with hyaluronic acid so it locks in that moisture.

Then I put on the most magic of creams, Charlotte Tilbury’s Night Cream. It’s thick and I wake up with the softest skin you could possibly imagine!! SO. DANG. GOOD.

The last step is Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate. This facial oil restores your skin while you sleep. It has lavender, squalane and evening primrose.

This has been the best nightly skincare routine I’ve found to date! I’m sure I will be switching it up and adding in products as I find great new ones, but it’s working so well for me currently!

I know it can be overwhelming when it comes to skincare. It is important to layer your products in the proper order. If you don’t it can cause some serious breakout and waste the product.

You can copy this to your phone if it helps!

Proper Order of Nightly Skincare Routine

1. Makeup Remover
2. Cleanser
3. Toner (I left this one out of the post, because I am still trying to find the perfect one. Lately I’ve been using Tarte’s Knockout Tingling Treatment. IT IS STRONG.)
4. Treatment Products
5.Night Cream
6. Eye Cream (Charlotte Tilbury’s is GREAT! You can find it HERE. )
7. Moisturizers
8. Facial Oil

Also, I will do masks or scrubs at night on occasion. I recently discovered the BEST. MASK. EVER. La Mer’s The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask. It has a full ounce of the treatment lotion in each mask. It’s so luxurious feeling and hydrating. It feels like you received a high end facial when you pull the mask off. If you are traveling or have a big event I would HIGHLY recommend using one of these. SO DANG GOOD!