The weekend might be half over (boo!), but there’s still plenty of time left to play in the open thread (yay!). Just grab yourself a snack, kick back and reeelax. The open thread starts now. 🙂
If you’re new to the open thread, here it is in a nutshell:
It’s kinda like our virtual living room, where we can chill and chat in the comments about anything and everything we want — makeup, relationships, work, school, TV shows, or anything else.
Everyone here is very cool, too, so feel free to reach out. The open thread lasts all day and night, so pop by whenever you can, and as often as you like.
I saved a spot for you on the couch!
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Hi, Karen! What are you doing? I am watching videos about the 20’s on youtube 🙂
Hi Marina,
I just finished running (did four miles). Now I’m doing situps and comments.
How has your weekend been? 🙂
I am sick, boo! And how are you?
Oh no! I hope you’re drinking lots of water and getting plenty of rest. Get better soon!
I’m doing pretty good. We have a long weekend here in the US, so that’s nice.
Thank you!
That’s cool. And what about your kittens? Are you getting them? 🙂
Hi everyone!
I’m getting the itch to travel and am thinking about taking a trip in October!
The possible destinations are Boston, New Orleans and Washington D.C.
For the folks who live in these areas — how is the weather during that time? And what are some fun things to do?
Well I live in the D.C. area the weather is usually just getting cool towards the begining of the month just as the week of halloween it seems to get colder. Of course there is tons to do site seeing galore i think you can get free tickets to the capital and white house still if you contact your local senator or congressmen but that may take a while 😀 But I’ve been to Boston too… I do love it there too i have family in the area the weather is usually about the same as D.C. and also tons of site seeing history stuff. 😀 New Orleans is a place i’ve yet to visit, but my cuz and a few friends have been there recently and say its a must see/visit vaca 😀 seafood gumbo anyone 😀 yum!!!
Awesome! Thanks for the info, Jen!
Now I’ve got a hankering for some gumbo…
I grew up in the DC area. October is an excellent time to visit — weather will be cool and dry, and the leaves will be changing.
Have you been to DC? If not, you have to do some of the Smithsonian museums. Natural History is my favorite. Air & Space is huge but has some great historical items. American History is a great one, as well — one of the ones I didn’t appreciate as much when I was little. The National Zoo is a good visit in the fall, as well.
Georgetown is fun for shopping, though in the years since I left they have added a lot more stuff that you can find anywhere, like Sephora and Mac. You can find some more unique stores if you venture off M Street. You can also climb the Exorcist steps in Georgetown!
National Harbor has been redeveloped and is a nice place to get lunch and walk around. Plan to do tons of walking in general; it’s the most pleasant way to see the city.
Oh! And Old Town Alexandria is a really nice place to spend a day. Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center and have lunch on the water. You don’t need a car, you can take the Metro over there.
Thanks Amber! This will totally come in handy if we go.
It’s been so long since I’ve taken a trip. Now I’m getting excited!
In D.C. The Mall is the main stripe of sight seeing starting with the Capital,the smithsonian museums, and the washington monument 😀 Amonst other famous sights 😀 I have yet to go to this museum but i hear lots of great things about The Spy Museum in D.C. 😀 It comes highly recommended by my cuz. I believe all the Smithsonian museums are free and there are two air and space museums. So yeah… there is a huge list to of things to see and do. yeah georgetown is amazing shopping as well as Pentagon Mall 😀 georgetown and adams morgan for bar hoping 😀 !!! It’s sort of a sad museum but I really liked it, meaning it was done well.
😛 oops it was the Holocost museum
I’m in DC too and would second contacting your Senator for tours — you can book capital tours online but I took some out of town friends on it and it sucked. Some intern in your Senator’s office will do a much better job. Tons of stuff to see — cool exhibits, monuments, great food, shows, etc. Almost all of it is free so you can pick and choose from exhibits without feeling like you have to spend the whole day in a single musem.
I was near Boston last year when I was back in school and it’ll be much colder there than DC in October, but not too crazy cold to be outside. Fantastic walks through the old parts of the city and conolli to die for.
I spent a lot of time in New Orleans when I lived in Florda. One of my favorite cities. Such a great vibe. Good music, great food and one of the best people watching places there is. Right now, given all the hits they’ve had with Katrina and Deepwater Horizon, I’d be inclined to throw my tourist money their way.
You really can’t go wrong with any of those three.
Hi Steph,
Okay, that’s good to know about the capital online tours… I used to work as a tour guide and dagnabbit, a sucky tour is one of my least favorite things.
Do you happen to have any restaurant recs for New Orleans? If I go there I plan on doing some serious eating.
Go to Mother’s for a debris sandwich — the best thing ever. It is the little bits that fall off the roast and the gravy.
For a more upscale dinner, you can’t miss at Cuvee, August, or Cochon. I always tried to make one nicer dinner on my work trips, per diem be damned, because there are some really great chefs in town. Plus some serious bartenders who know how to make a cocktail that enhances a meal and doesn’t numb your taste buds. Cocktails at Herbsaint are spectacular.
I like the beignets at Cafe Beignet better then Cafe du Monde — but you sorta have to go to both. Ditto a muffaletta from Central Grocery. Go for the unbelieveable Sunday brunch at Elizabeth’s (candied bacon!) or hit Bon Ton for po boys and more casual fare.
You’re awesome, Steph! All these places are on my travel wish list now.
NOM!
Food is another hobby — my staff always knew we were going to plan our meetings around the food. If you wind up coming to DC, give me a shout and give you the lay of the land here. If you wind up going to Boston and want to head across the river to Cambridge, I can point you to places there too.
I’m not a Boston person, per se, but I’m in southern New England that time of year (for school). Boston is a wonderful city, and the weather will be pretty brisk. It’s also the best time to visit.
Hi Karen!
I live in Boston, and October is usually a great time of year to be here. The weather is crisp and cool but it isn’t too cold (at least not until the end of the month).
There’s a lot to do here. The touristy stuff, such as Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market and Harvard Square, is actually pretty fun. You can walk the Freedom Trail, which takes you through 16 historic sites. We also have the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Gardner Stewart Museum; both are lovely. I also really like the New England Aquarium and the JFK Library (it is right on the water and the view is gorgeous).
We also have a lot of fun shops plus the usual chains. Newbury Street is the big shopping destination. It is near several big department stores (Neiman Marcus and Saks, among others), but it also has some smaller boutiques. If you’re looking for a good makeup stop, The Beauty Mark in Beacon Hill is adorable and has some great products.
Of course, there’s a lot of seafood here. Boston has some chains, but for the most part, the restaurants are locally owned (or are regional chains).
If you have any questions or if you need more info, please let me know!
Oooh, DC! Other people have made great suggestions, but it really depends on what you want to see. The Smithsonian Museums are all free. Personally, I’m a huge nerd, and thus I’m partial to the Natural History and the Air and Space Museums. As for art, the National Gallery (East = modern, West = pre-20th century) is hard to beat, but the Corcoran and the Phillips Collection are nice too (although not downtown, and not free). The Spy Museum is a bit pricier than most museums, but REALLY fun (and there’s some great food around there like Jaleo). As for shopping and wandering about, the Eastern Market is a fun place to walk around on a Saturday morning/afternoon. If you coordinate with your Representative in Congress, you can get a tour of the Capitol.
If you’re willing to venture a bit from downtown, getting to the top of the National Cathedral can get you some of the most beautiful views of the DC area — be sure to bring your camera. Near the National Cathedral is also the National Zoo (pandas!).
More! Here are some food recs (I’ve been thinking about food a lot thanks to Top Chef DC, lol!). Some of these places are kind of pricey, but there’s nothing insane like a $90 prix fixe or anything here :). The Washingtonian (washingtonian.com) has a list of the 100 best restaurants in the city (these are all on it). The Cheap Eats and the Dirt Cheap Eats lists are fantastic, too (especially since I certainly can’t afford to go to these places all the time).
If you love Indian food, Rasika is amazing and routinely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the entire city (the Washingtonian ranked it as #8 this year). It’s nearly impossible to get in, though, so make reservations two weeks ahead of time (maybe more like three if you want to go on a weekend). Indique Heights is another great Indian place that’s not quite as expensive, and it doesn’t usually require a reservation. Be sure to check out the appetizers. I could eat the shrimp varuval every single day.
Jaleo is the tapas restaurant of DC hot shot chef Jose Andres. If you like shrimp and garlic, order the gambas al ajillo (there’s also a great asparagus dish). He also runs Zaytinya, a Mediterranean place that I sadly haven’t had the chance to sample. I hear it’s great, though.
Black Salt has killer fish and seafood, and Et Voila has great fries and amazing mussels for a good price. My parents go to Et Voila since it’s pretty close to them all the time (and I like to tag along with them).
Zentan is a new place I’ve been dying to try out by Susur Lee. It’s Asian fusion food, and the sushi is apparently amazing.
DC is known for its Ethiopian food, too. If this strikes your fancy, Etete is where to go — and it’s pretty cheap. Faryab has amazing (and inexpensive) Afghan food. The chicken kabobs are delicious!
This is getting ridiculously long, so I’ll finish my recs with this — if you want to potentially catch a look at some Washington bigwhigs (and get some great food right by the White House), head to the Oval Room.
Hey Karen! At least it’s a long weekend!
I’m sad there’s no true blood tonight. And even sadder the season is almost over 🙁
Wait… seriously!? For some reason I thought it was on tonight. I was getting all excited about it too, boo.
What have you been up to today? Hope you’ve managed to sneak in a little fun with makeup.
Yeah I think they are skipping tonight, and the finale is next week?
My day has been a bore; I’ve only left the house to take my dog out. How about you – are you having a good weekend?
I gotta say this season is a VAST improvement over the last one! I’ve watched the last ep twice and may have to watch it again just to get TB fix.
This afternoon I did some cleaning (I’m always doing some cleaning) and went running. This morning I organized some lipglosses and fooled around with MAC Fabulous Felines while watching old eps of The Hills. Nothing too exciting!
How’s the weather out your way? Still hot?
I totally agree – I love this season!
That sounds pretty exciting to me, lol. I need to spend some time organizing my makeup soon.
So it’s nice and cooler in the mornings now, but the high is still 89/90 every day. What’s it like out your way? I can’t wait for fall weather!!!!!
All the stuff with Mary Anne last season was really annoying.
There’s one thing about this season that’s out of place for me — I don’t really buy Sam going so cray-cray within such a short amount of time. I dunno, it seems out of left field.
It’s a mix of summer and fall right now here too! In the mornings it’s overcast or foggy, but after it burns off it gets downright hot. I love it!
Yah I felt the Mary Ann thing dragged on way too long. And I agree about Sam, even if he snapped like that I wouldve thought he wouldve snapped back out of it by now. The storyline with his fam kinda annoyed me too.
I hope you get to travel soon! I love going new places!
Yeah, and what the heck is going on with him and Tara? I know they got together before but their passion-fest from last week was so random.
Another thing that confuses me: Jesus’ character. He seems to be doing things that don’t make sense, either. For such a steady guy his whole new obsession with V seems… odd.
LOL, I spend waaay too much time obsessing over TB.
I’m totally itching to go someplace new. The last time I went on trip to a new place was November of 2008. It’s overdue!
I know you just got back from San Diego, but do you have any traveling plans lined up?
I can’t figure Jesus out either!
Girl, you need a vacay! No more travel plans for me until April for a wedding. This year I went to Hilton Head, the Dominican Republic, Savannah, and SD. I am kinda tired of traveling!
Next thing you know we’ll be talking about you packing for that wedding! Who’s getting hitched? Are you gonna be in the wedding?
My cousin is getting hitched in AZ. I’m not in the wedding. I hope I get to be a bridesmaid one day!
Where did you get coconut fro yo?! I must know!!!
Oh noeesss …. I need my TB fix! 😀
I know! I’m going through withdrawal.
Ill prolly rewatch last week’s … it was pretty awesomesauce! 😀
Hey everyone!
Ahh..this week went by quickly!
I just got back home from downtown, I went shopping with my friend. None of us bought anything! haha. I usually don’t buy anything if I’m with friends, but if I’m with my family or alone, I’ll probably buy. I don’t know why..is that weird? loll
I still haven’t tried out ANY of the eyeshadows from my Naked palette..hehe. Only thing i tried was the brown Whisky eyeliner, my first time using brown! It’s actually quite nice..
I have to go now, they’re calling me!
See you later!
Hi Yiota,
Sometimes window shopping/hanging out with a friend is a treat in itself. 🙂 Is this someone you’ve known for a while?
Glad to hear you like the Whisky eyeliner! Now that you’re into browns you’ve got to try MAC Teddy and Urban Decay Bourbon next!
I’ve only known her for a year! But it was funny how we didn’t actually buy anything. We tried on a bunch of things but bought nothing.
Oohh.. I’ll have to try them then!
On a sadder note, a 15 year old girl got hit by a car near my house and died yesterday.. it’s really affected me these past 2 days. The driver wasn’t driving with a license and was speeding..he didn’t even stop though. He just went on, then turned himself in to the police 12 hours later. Speeding is not cool.. he just unfairly took the life of this young girl. I can’t even imagine the pain her parents are in, to let their daughter go to school and never to have her come back home.
Hopefully people can learn from this and stop speeding.. that’s why I’m mentioning it.
That’s really sad, Yiota. That poor family… my heart goes out to them.
New Orleans in October is pretty – kinda windy and cool but sunshine-y still! 🙂
If I go there I’m gonna eat beignets every day! 🙂
My mom and I did a long weekend there a year before Katrina, and we had gumbo and beignets every day!
Great minds think alike!
I’ll take my beignets with extra sugar, please. 🙂
Thats what I did! 😀 W/ the chickory coffee — pure heaven!
We went for a walk … and I had froyo for dinner again … LOL.
I had some for dinner the other day. What flavor did you have? I had coconut with strawberries and blueberries on top.
Theres this place here called Tasti D-Lite where you can make flavors. I had Caramel <3 … we got a large cup to split between the Hubs and I and im happy!
I actually didnt ahve any toppings … dont want anything in the way of me and my caramel. 😛
went to my two friends’ wedding today.
it’s a weird feeling knowing you’re getting older :p
It is. It hits fast too — like, one moment you guys are all carefree and b*tching about boys, and then next thing you know you’re standing next to your BFF as she says her vows.
Hi karen!
today’s a really big day for me, for today i made my very first mac purchase EVER. i woke my boyfriend up early and made him drive me all the way down to the village just to visit Nordstoms, and by extension, the only mac counter around for miles. truth be told i thought you’d be there too, there was a Fabulous Felines demonstration going on :D. I only got two things, but i didn’t want to go mac crazy my first time out. I went in like a woman on a mission with a definite wishlist i’d researched, I know its really easy to get carried away.
what was your first mac purchase, and what are your favorites?
Hi Kaelin,
Oh, how fun! What did you end up getting?
I didn’t go to the even because I was out and about yesterday and needed to just chill at home… you know how it goes.
My first MAC purchase was Paramount lipstick in the mid-90s. 🙂 I can’t even count how many tubes I went through; it was my go-to color in college.
As for my MAC faves, I’ve got a ton of ’em! Here’s a link to one of them; there’s also a list w/in the post with more recs.
https://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/mac-makeup/mac-unsung-heroes-soft-brown-eyeshadow/
I actually went in to get my very first color match and ended up getting a mineralize skinfinish natural. i’ve been having alot of health, primarily skin, trouble as of late, so i wanted something super fast and pretty so while i’m living out of a suitcase for the next few weeks i can still look cute.
i also picked up naked lunch. my friends have hyped it up SO much, i asked the sales assistant to pack one up for me before i even tried it lol.
Oh Naked Lunch is awesome! I learned that from Karen!
My first MAC purchase was a Viva Glam lipstick in the 90s… it wasnt a special collection then yet, just a regular color. I remember it being matte and bright orange.
Living out of a suitcase, huh? Will you be traveling for work or fun?
You will love Naked Lunch! It looks gorgeous as a wash over the lid with some thick cat liner. 🙂
Congratulations on the first MAC purchase! I really like their products (especially their Studio Tech foundation and the eye shadows).
haha i’m still just a high school gal, no job, which means no money for mac foundations. i’ve been thinking about getting naked lunch for ages, but now that i’m addicted to mac i think i’ll have to go back and get more.
Bought my first Chanel eyeshadow on Friday — the gorgeous Taupe Grise. It is the perfect taupey-gray-purple for me. The sort of color I could wear as a wash every day to work as a fab alternative to my standard work champagne shimmer. But– the stuff creases like nobodies business! My trusty Two-Faced primer barely made an impact. Trying it today over a MAC paint pot to see if it is any better (but I don’t love what it did to the color).
Anyone else have better luck with these shadows with other primers? Would much rather buy new primer than have to return the lovely shadow!
I love that color.
Hmm, I gotta throw in my usual chant for Urban Decay Eden. I’ve used it with that shade and had no trubs.
How is the MAC Paint Pot going?
Going pretty well, just some minor creasing. But I really don’t like how it changes the color — makes it a little murky. I’ll see if I can get a sample of Eden – I’d worried about the same color issues and glad to hear that isn’t the case. It really is a lovely color.
Have them hook you up at Sephora! The gals there are pretty good about giving out samples to try. 🙂
I’ve really liked the Bare Minerals Prime Time Eye Primer. I find that colors look best if they’re tapped on, as opposed to brushed/swept on, over it.
For stuff that creases, I do a bit of concealer over my eyelids then UDPP. Then for good measure, id add in either a MAC paint or paintpot, Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow or NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil on top of the UDPP.
Wow – that must last for days. Thanks for the tips.
For those ladies in the US, what do you have planned tommorrow for your day off?!
Studying! Ha ha… I am officially boring. 🙂 How about you?
Mine will be boring too. I have to work from home for a few hours. Then I will probably work on my thesis a bit. I need to find something fun to do afterwards as a reward! Maybe organize my makeup 🙂
NOTHIN”!!!! Maybe another walk but that would be it. We did our grilling today….
Sadly, I think I might go into the office to catch up on some work :(. However, the weather will be gorgeous, so maybe I’ll spend some time reading in the Common.
In an alternate universe I’m going to the spa for a massage and an exfoliation sesh, and then to the salon to get my roots done.
In this one I’m writing, reading and cooking soup, LOL!
I’m doing part of your alternate universe! As a reward for (almost) finishing our project (we really have another week, but I won’t have a day off that week), I am using a Daily Deal coupon for a half priced microderm facial. I’m loving all the spa deals they have on Daily Deal, Groupon, Living Social, etc. and happy I finally get to use one.
Hey everyone!
I need help.. really bad… I dont know what to do with my skin.. its a MESS. Ive never had acne before ( well only a few here and there) but lately it is getting a lot… its not like its over my entire face.. but it is enough for me to notice… Ive tried LOADS of different skin care brands.. but here in Finland I have a hard time finding the right stuff… can anyone give me some advice on what to buy 🙂
Take care everyone!
xx 🙂
Hi Anna
I don’t know what products are readily available in Finland — but are you able to get Retin-A by prescription from a dermatologist? I find using oil free products helps. Try using a facewash and moisturizer with Salicylic acid in it. Follow up with a spot treatment with Saclicylic acid in it also. In the States — lots of brand make this — Neutrogena, Clean and Clear. Also, if you can go to an aestetician (skin specialist, but not a doctor, so not as expensive as a dermatologist) — they can recommend peels (glycolic, salicylic etc) that can help acne.
Good luck!
Hey Anna,
I use Murad’s Acne line. I use their Clarifying Cleanser, Exfoliating Treatment Gel, and Acne Spot Treatment. It does not STOP breakouts (in my experience, nothing has stopped my skin from breaking out). However, it helps my acne disappear faster. As with any new skin care system, it takes about 4 weeks for you to see effects.
Good luck!
Have you recently dyed your hair? Sometimes that causes breakouts too. Especially around the forehead and cheek areas. Another thing I find also causes breakouts is when I have an odd sleep schedule (which is ALL the time, stupid insomnia). My friend tried going on a strict sleep schedule and reported back that her skin looked great without making any other changes.
Hi Anna,
I’ve noticed that as I’ve gotten older that my acne seems to be linked to my hormones.
Could you perhaps see a dermatologist? Getting some prescription stuff might be the fastest way.
THIS. My skin suddenly went crazy in my mid-20s. By the time I gave up on trying to treat it myself and went to see a dermatologist, some damage had been done and I ended up spending a lot more money than I would have if I’d just gone in the first place. I’m still trying to repair some of that damage.
Hi Karen! This question is kind of specific, but how does this Olay lotion compare to Johnson’s 24 Hour Moisturizer body lotion: https://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/product-reviews/heavy-hydration-on-the-cheap-johnsons-body-care-24-hour-moisturing-body-wash-and-lotion/
I bought the Johnson’s lotion after your rave review and I’m just about ready to buy another bottle of…something. Which do you suggest?
I’m glad you enjoyed Dreamgirls! I would have loved to see Wicked again before it left SF this weekend, but alas, there was no Oz in the cards for me.
On another note, there’s an Ulta opening near me next weekend and that’s enough reason for a makeup related purchase! What is a make up item that you would recommend I buy?
Hi Janelle,
Ya know, I like both, but I think I like this one just a touch more. It’s more moisturizing, and I like that it’s fragrance free.
Glad to hear you got the chance to visit the Bay Area! What was your favorite thing about San Francisco?
As for Ulta… hmm, if they carry NYX I’d say check out their liquid liners. Rimmel lipsticks and Cargo eyeshadow quads are great too!
Ok, I’ll try for the Olay, then!
Oh, I’m from the Bay Area! But it was Wicked’s last weekend in SF. 🙁 Though I don’t go to SF as much as I should. I’ve never walked on the Golden Gate Bridge or visited Alcatraz or done those touristy things. What are your fav SF hot spots? However, I generally do enjoy the nightlife. I used to like Fluid (even though it is in a shady locale) and Dragonbar.
OH, yea, NYX would be a great ! I don’t really see NYX in local Targets and when I do, there isn’t much selection. 🙁 And I forgot about Cargo! I’m so sad it’s not at Sephora anymore. I think I would want a blush or two from their hi-def makeup line.
Hi ladies!
I went on a haircutting adventure today… ha. I now have bangs for the first time in a while!
I’ve been absolutely drooling over the Divine Rose lip color from the Lancome fall collection ever since you posted about it, Karen. I want it SO BAD. I’m trying to decide whether or not I should splurge on a $29 lipstick, especially since I don’t typically wear the stuff. My fave used to be a color that Benefit had that apparently worked on EVERYBODY. I’ve been looking for something like it ever since they discontinued their 1st gen. lipsticks!
On the note of lipstick, what are peoples’ favorite drugstore lipsticks? I must admit that the only one I’ve really tried is the standard Revlon “Super Lustrous” lipstick… you know, black tube, gold band. Mostly because I’m not a lipstick girly, and when I’m in the mood to experiment that lipstick is usually on sale for über cheap, ha. But I’d love to hear what people love that’s a little less pricey than the High End stuff.
I like the ff drugstore lippies:
Revlon Matte – awesome color selection, non drying and pretty decent staying power.
Revlon Colorburst – super moisturizing, great colors.
Rimmel Moisture Renew – cheaper than the Revlon, really moisturizing.
I like l’oreal colour riche. Volcanic is a great shade!
Hi Shannon,
If you want to experiment w/lipstick colors you might want to check out Rimmel Moisture Renew. They’re some of the best drugstore lippies I’ve ever tried! Here’s a review I did a while back:
https://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/product-reviews/rimmel-moisture-renew-lipstick-a-6-drugstore-dream/
Is it strange I’m already planning for Sephora’s F&F sale? I’m already planning, ooh I gotta get that later when I can get it for 20% off!
Im on a perfume kick lately so probably some new scents. Im liking the new Prada one.
What’s on your Sephora wish list, guys?
Perfume! Maybe some NARs blushes. 🙂
Hi ladies! I hope you are all having a good weekend 🙂
Does anyone have suggestions for a good facial cleanser for sensitive/.oily skin? I’ve been using Benefit’s You Clean Up Nice, but I found it too drying (it has now been relegated to brush cleaning duties only). I’d also love some recommendations for a fall/winter moisturizer.
I have dry skin, but I loooove olay’s micro-sculpting cream! It’s the only moisturizer I have bought more than once!
Thanks for the recommendation! I’ve been wanting to try something from the Olay line.
I’ve tried this before and liked it too. It moisturized well and didn’t break me out.
I actually go back to good ole Clinique in the winter – I use the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel with a separate sunblock to moisturize. 🙂
For cleanser, usually Cetaphil in the winter just because it doesnt dry me out.
I’ve never tried Cetaphil, but I’ve heard a lot of good things about it, so I might have to give it a shot.
I’ve been using Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel and I really like it. I might use it for day and then use a richer cream at night (the winters here are cold and windy, so my skin needs a lot of help).
Cetaphil is pretty awesome and I always go back to it. Usually, I use it at night and Biore Ice during the day.
DDMGel is pretty good too … I always say cant go wrong w/ Clinique for skin care.. Moisture Surge is pretty good too. 🙂
I used Cetaphil in my 20s and was very happy with it! I also liked it because it didn’t dry out my skin.
Hi Terri,
I’ve been using Philosophy Purity Made Simple for a few years now and looooove it. It takes off all my makeup, doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry or tight, and doesn’t irritate my combination dry/oily skin
As for moisturizers, I’ve been using Clarins Hydraquench Cream for Normal to Dry skin and love it. It moisturizes crazy good and doesn’t break me out.
I have combo skin and swear by Cerave cleanser. It is like an amped up Cetaphil. I think it does a better job of removing makeup but still as gentle and non-drying.
@Nora, I am too! Need to get refills for my Temptu but going to wait till it’s 20% off!
@Terri, I’ve had a LARGE number of issues for my sensitive skin but my Derm finally said he wants me on Ceptaphil(sp?) and using the brand’s moisturizer Cera-Ve. I’d say give it a shot and see if it works, it’s supposed to be non-drying as a cleanser.
Cetaphil is awesome. The cleanser really cleans and doesnt dry at all. The moisturizer is pretty good too. 🙂
Something else I’ve tried beyond Cera-Ve is the First Aid Beauty Moisturizer they have been selling at Sephora.
http://sephora.com/browse/brand_hierarchy.jhtml;jsessionid=3RGMXV44V4SIKCV0KQNQQAQ?brandId=First+Aid+Beauty
I was eyeing that the last time I was at Sephora. I wants!
I would see if they can send you home with a sample, of the 2 moisturizers the stick one is thicker, so I use it on my fingers first then apply to my face (clean hands of course!) where the pump moisturizer is a little less thick but I still make sure I put it on nice and light.
Youre right! I should have asked them for samples. Ill probably do that when I go back. Thank you! 🙂
Ooh I’ve been hearing about the Temptu line, but I feel intimidated by it since I’ve only recently started getting into using make up.
For me I was sparked to buy it because it’s build-able, and since I can really only have a thin amount on my skin before I break out. I can use a thin amount of primer and then use the Temptu overall until I build up the areas that need it most.
I’d head to a Sephora near you if you can and get tested on the colors to find the one that’s right for you, I guessed wrong to start but they allowed me to swap out for the right color when I realized it was too light.
It IS a pricey purchase considering the tools out these days, but it’s easy to use, and for a makeup user like me that’s not as experienced it was not hard to work with so that’s a plus!
Thanks! Someone else recommended Cetaphil, so I’m going to pick some up the next time I’m at Walgreens.
Got another question for you, girls!
What are your weekend beauty rituals?
I just finished waxing the ‘stash, plucking the brows and now I’m gonna paint my toenails.
I’m a skittles polish person by far, so it’s normally Skittles Sat & Sunday to try new polishes and figure out of they stay or go (to a swap box with other polish lovers).
I’ll normally try to keep makeup light if at all, and give my face a rest from the work week.
Gals and I are themeing for a blue-polish week, so my toes are ready in ombre design and I’m working on the hands now!
I usually wash all of my makeup brushes on the weekend, paint my toes, and do a facial scrub or mask. I need to fit a professional manicure/pedicure in asap!
Michelle – I have very similar weekend beauty ritual!. I washed all of my brushes yesterday, and I have a Lush mask on right now.
I’ve been procrastinating on getting a pedicure, so I’m in desperate need for one.
My weekend beauty rituals: dying my hair with root touch-up (when it needs it – not every weekend of course), plucking the eyebrows, shaving my legs really well (during the week I dry shave just the lower part of my leg which I realize is a terrible habit), facial masque, and a pedicure (done at home most of the time). 🙂
Haha, dry shave… sounds like me when I was a lazy teen I used to do that… I guess someone forgot to tell me to use the shaving cream!
I’m a lazy non-teen! 🙂 I just never feel like I have enough time to shave during the week.
Oh the weekend. A girl’s work never ends!
I do the ff:
Wash makeup brushes.
Trim brows if needed.
Use a clay mask and a sheet mask.
Deep condition my hair.
Another brush-washer here. I also clean up the brows and nails. Try and deal with heels. I finally tried waxing my own lower legs and didn’t do too badly (although my floor is a bit sticky). Will definitely try it again. Also like to do a deep conditioning for my hair.
I’m starting school on Tuesday (boooo!). Does the first day of school ever get less nerve wracking? But on the plus side, I’m getting some shopping done tomorrow, even if it means I have to elbow the crowds of crazies at the mall, hahaha!
I’m having one of those weeks where I just want to hide my face in a paper bag. My skin is totally FREAKING out and no, definitely NOT in a good way. I’ve heard some good things about jojoba oil, so I’m going to try that and lay off the harsh acne cleansers… fingers crossed!
Mai-Huong – I’m a grad student, but I also teach at the university I attend, and I still get nervous on the first day of school. Hang in there – the teachers are probably more nervous than you are 🙂
Hey Mai-Huong,
In my experience, the first day of school does not get less nerve wracking. But all “first-days” cause anxiety. First day of work, first day living in a new city, etc. At least it’s just ONE day that’s the “first” that you have to worry about! 🙂
I heard that jojoba oil may break you out, so you’d have to stick with it for a few weeks to see its benefits. I tried using it a few months to minimize my face’s oil production rate, but it didn’t seem to have an effect.
Ohhhhh I forgot about deep cleaning my makeup brushes. I do that every Sunday night.
Hi Karen!!! I just started reading your blog and i LOVE it!! this is my first open thread, so i just wanted to vent
ok, soo….. my sister who is the only person in the world who really understands me, and she just moved all the way across the country and that soooo sucks!!!!!!
Next, i am gonna be 14 in 8 days ( i know i am young, dont judge 🙂 anywho, i am almost 14 and i pretty much pay for ALL my own makeup!!! ALL OF IT. its cause my mom and dad think its stupid to buy good quality makeup that is more expensive, like mac, anything at sephora, etc.. it is ridiculous girlfriend!!!!
Also, i just got the Loreal studio secret magic perfecting base and the maybelline gel liner in brown. Any thoughts? if you have them, do you like them?
Lastly, i need a new liner for my waterline. Any thoughts? i was thinking MAC’s Technokohl liner. what would u suggest??
Thanks so much! you Rock my sox girl!!!!!!
Love, Andrea
I have the Maybelline Gel liner in gray and purple (cannot remember the names) … the pigmentation can be improved but the staying power is pretty good! 🙂 I like it!
Hey Karen! I just wanted to let you know that I love your site! I recently started my own beauty/fashion blog http://www.pinkbeautybliss.com and I would love if you’d check it out! 😀
Also what are your suggestions for a concealer that isn’t drying? I have very dry skin and I’m looking for something that’s moisturizing. I was thinking of getting Bobbi Brown’s creamy concealer.
Ive used The Balm’s Time Balm for almost a year now and its pretty good. I dont fee like its drying and the coverage is excellent.
I like to swap my skin care regimen up periodically and I just changed my serum last week; now I’m sporting 2 honkin’ zits, one on either side of my nose. I really hate this because I normally go for months without ever having one. But I feel like I have to stick with it because this stuff was a) pricey and b) it may just be an initial reaction to the switch. OK, so much for complaints…on to better things. I saw “Inception” last night & really liked it. I know people & critics are very divided on this movie, but I thought it was intriguing, complex and hella creative. Have you seen it, Karen? I also have been purchasing certain drug store makeup products that are highly recommended on various beauty blogs/sites, including this one (my favorite!). Thus far, I got the Wet n’ Wild Mega Last lipstick & a bunch of Prestige Total Intensity eyeliner pencils, all of which are darn good. I really enjoy the hunt for a high-quality bargain, you know? Dinner was grilled shrimp on rice with pistachil ice cream: both yummy! Last but not least, I got a couple of the MUFE Rouge Artist Intense lipsticks (#1 & #23, both nudes, different finishes). That’s a GREAT product for a reasonable price. Have you tried them yet? Hope everyone that’s home from work tomorrow enjoys the day off. Scout and Rascal send kitteh hugs to Tabs.
Hey, Karen (and everyone). I had a busy day today. I was actually in your neck of the woods. A friend lives in Novato and wanted to go to Sephora and Target. Well, geez, twist my arm why don’t you! Since that’s the closest Sephora to me (I’m up in Sonoma County), off I went. I picked up the Tarte 10 Eyeshadow palette, a Kat Von D palette that was on sale for $10 off, and a couple of the Pacifica roll-on fragrances, Tuscan Blood Orange and Mediterranean Fig. The Fig is going to be a nice transitional fragrance as we head into fall.
Now I’m just hangin’ with my kitty, who’s apalled that I left her alone for the day, and am getting ready to do my Sunday night ritual of a microdermabrasion treatment. Later on I’ll be watching Mad Men.
Tomorrow I will probably go out for sushi lunch with a friend.
I’m finishing up watching Nascar before heading to bed 🙂
I ordered some Pacifica rollerballs too. Cannot wait to get em! 🙂
Karen, I just got back from an AMAZING meal. I ate at least five kinds of animals, and then had this chocolate torte with a huge smear of chocolate mousse.
Forget DC, NOLA, and Beantown — bring your stomach to Houston!
did you nom @ Feast? :X
Rainbow Lodge! Have you been?
yep to both. awesome food no? 🙂
i miss rainbow lodge …
It was a religious experience. We are going back next weekend!
I want to go to Feast, but I’m a little scared. 🙂
oh my … i should drag the hubs over to rainbow soon. their desserts are out of this world.
feast can be a little … intimidating. but the food is awesome. their desserts are pretty good too — sticky toffee pudding ftw! 🙂
theres a place in studemont ive been itching to try called stella sola that has what is said to be the best charcuterie plate in town. 🙂
I don’t know if you’ve heard of a company called Tokyo Milk, but I picked up a fragrance called “Honey and the Moon” today by them. It’s notes are honey, sugared voilet, jasmine and sandalwood. It’s gorgeous!
Also picked up Butter London’s “All Hail McQueen” Then I scooted over to Sally Beauty Supply and picked my first bottle of Seche Vite.
The “All Hail McQueen is really pretty, but I ended up doing my pedi with OPI Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous with the Seche as the top coat. The Seche Vite is awesome with awesome sauce! Dried my toes in record time and it’s sooooo shiny!
Just wanted to say, part of the reason I love this blog is that it’s a way to see what’s going on in the beauty blogging world at the moment. there’s so much thoughtful comments going on and with comment love feature it’s easy to see what other bloggers are posting about at the moment. There’s nice community and reader provided info in addition to the official content. Just thought i would shoot some compliments/encouragement your way as it’s always good to hear.