Oh snap. Clarisonic Sale for $99!

Guys, Sephora has the Clarisonic Mia on sale for $99.00!! (While supplies last; with free shipping)

Seriously, the Clarisonic is one of the best things that has ever happened to my skin... read why HERE.

Get it as a treat to yourself...or as a Christmas gift!

Purchase:

• Clarisonic Mia Limited Time $99 Offer

Set Your Makeup & Make it Last

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray 

(the secret to long-lasting makeup)

It has just recently come to my attention how many people are unaware of this glorious product.  My friends have been using this spray for years, and I recently jumped on board and cannot believe I have been living without it for so long.

It is very lightweight spray... it does not mess up your makeup at all when you spray it on.  Just hold the bottle in front of your face (not too close... I'd say 6 or 8 inches away) and spritz in a circular motion around your face- I usually spray 3 or 4 times.

And voila- it sets your makeup... the claim is that it lasts up to 16 hours, but I cannot say that I've ever worn makeup that long.

It works especially well with powder!  I usually dust on some powder after I apply my BB Cream, and this stuff ensures that my powder stays put and even looks better.  (I hate that dry powdery look you get right after you apply powder!)

Tip:  For real staying power, make sure you use a primer as a base for your foundation, powder, or BB Cream.  One of my favorites: Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer

Shop this post:

• Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray
• Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

ph: sephora.com

Does the Rodan and Fields AMP MD Roller Really Work?

Well, I guess there's a reason that there is a waiting list for it!

I have been dying to try the Rodan and Fields AMP MD Roller and this "microneedling" ever since it came out in 2011 and was on "The Today Show" morning segment as a must-have anti-aging product for 2011.  This pre-dates my knowledge of the R+F Products, and is actually how I first heard about the products.  I thought being able to do something they do at the dermatologist or plastic surgeon's office AT HOME was absolutely revolutionary (...plus, I read Angelina Jolie used microneedling).

The AMP MD Roller was taken off the market for awhile so the FDA could approve it (or something like that) and is now finally available again.

My first question was:  Does the AMP MD Roller hurt?  

No.  Can you feel the needles?  Sort of... they are microneedles (not the size of regular needles) and you feel pressure, but it definitely does not hurt. About 10-15 minutes after use, my skin is red and tingling, which is because it is starting to repair itself and basically give you fresh, new skin (more collagen production).

What are the benefits of the AMP MD Roller and microneedling in general?

Before I used it, I searched a ton of websites to find a good explanation from a doctor that explains the principal behind microneedling... this was a great explanation from a plastic surgeon:

Microneedling is a form of Collagen Induction Therapy(CIT). The idea behind CIT is similar to that of many other non-surgical skin-tightening procedures in that it aims to create a controlled injury underneath the skin's surface, thereby inducing the body to respond through the formation of new tissue layers of elastin- and collagen fibres (neo-collagenesis) as well as new capillaries for an improved blood supply (neo-angiogenesis) in the treated area. The skin plumps and thickens in response to this stimulus, ultimately reducing the appearance of scars, and fine lines and other skin texture changes. In addition to CIT, the channels made from the micro-needles allow topical gels and creams to be absorbed more effectively through the top layer of skin.

So, basically, it injures the skin (not in a noticeable way) so that your skin forms new, fresh skin tissue. And what is really awesome is that it allows the serum and/or cream (in my case, I use both) to penetrate your skin.  

The Rodan and Fields AMP MD Microneedle Roller is designed to be used with the Redefine Regimen, especially the Night Renewing Serum. (The roller comes with a 2 month supply of the Night Renewing Serum)

What do I use with my AMP MD Roller?

To order:

• Due to the waiting list, only R+F Preferred Customers will be able to order the AMP MD Roller next month.
• However, you can sign up NOW to be a Preferred Customer to participate in this special promotion and be one of the first people to get the microneedle roller as soon as it becomes available again next month!  (Becoming a Preferred Customer will give you free shipping on your monthly orders, discounted prices for all the products, and eligible for special promotions like this.)
• Email me to join my wait list or ask any questions you may have: 
• blondeandlippy@gmail.com

UPDATE TO ORIGINAL POST:

• Although the AMP MD Roller was originally on wait list at time of release, it is now available!  Email me to order or for questions about the roller and tips on use. BlondeAndLippy@gmail.com

What is the Best Facewash Out There?

Which facewash is right for YOU?

Ok... what I have come to realize is that everyone likes something a little different when it comes to their facewash.  Some people like a foaming wash, some a creamy wash, etc...

So, I have picked out my favorites in each category.  All of these are tested, tried, and true!

1.  Obagi Foaming Gel  

A foaming wash that I truly adore.  Why? Because it takes off ALL my makeup and it's a great price for a high-end wash that will last you awhile.

2.  Rodan and Fields Daily Cleansing Mask 

A clay mask/wash that is pretty amazing.  You wet your fingers with warm water,  then massage the mask onto your DRY face (it also has a gentle exfoliator).  Let it dry for a few minutes... I then remove it with my Clarisonic (click HERE for more info on the Clarisonic Skincare Brush).  I love it because it removes impurities from your skin without being drying at all.  The fact that it doubles as a mask is great because Kaolin Clay actually draws impurities out of your pores.

3.  Vivite Daily Facial Cleanser 

If you're looking for something with chemical action, this one is for you... it contains 12% glycolic compound (due to this DO NOT use in or around your eyes!).

4.  Lancome Creme Radiance Clarifying Cleanser 

This one also removes your makeup... it is a cream wash that foams as you massage it onto your face with water.  

What do I use?  Usually a combo...  

If I have makeup on,  I use my Obagi Foaming Gel when I take my bath to take all my makeup off.  I then use my Rodan and Fields mask (avoiding my eye area) because I'm obsessed with it.   and it has really changed my skin... along with the entire R+F line that I use- click HERE for more info.

If I do not have makeup on, I use the R+F wash/mask by itself because I believe it is the most effective yet gentle facewash I have ever used on my face.  It truly makes my skin feel so smooth! (especially when used along with my Clarisonic.)

All About Acne: How to Treat Acne & The Unblemish Regimen

ACNE: You are not alone...

• 85-90% of teenagers suffer from acne for 7 years
• 30-50% of adult women suffer from acne for 20 years
• 50 million people in the United States suffer from acne

The doctors of Rodan + Fields have created Multi-Med Therapy to cure acne, post-acne marks, and to keep your skin clear and beautiful.

Although you may have heard of and used Proactiv (also created by the Rodan + Fields doctors), Unblemish was designed to treat the entire acne cycle.   It reduces redness, treats clogged pores, trapped oil, and bacterial proliferation while it fades post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation.  Best of all it includes a time-released oil-control sunscreen... we all know how important sunscreen is when it comes to aging, but sun damage can also worsen and intensify your acne marks and scars!

And if you did use Proactiv as a teen, remember that your skin changes and has different needs over time!  Unblemish is a pharmacological-grade regimen that helps stop pimples, blackheads, and post-acne dark marks from making an unwelcome appearance in your life.

Acne Treatment Sulfur Wash: 

• medicated cleanser with FDA allowed 3% Sulfur to penetrate pores
• Sulfur is the only acne medication to help reduce visible redness
• Contains Chamomile and Aloe Vera to help calm the skin

Unblemish Spot Fading Toner:

• Contains 2% Hydroquinone to lighten post acne marks
• Alcohol Free
• Salicylic Acid helps remove dead skin cells to keep pores clean
• Sea Whip and arnica calm and hydrate the skin

Unblemish Dual Intensive Acne Treatment:

• Unique dual-chamber delivery system ensures efficacy of 2.5% benzoyl peroxide into pores, helping prevent the development of NEW acne
• Chamomile and pomegranate calm visible redness and hydrate skin

Unblemish Oil Control Lotion:

• Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to defend skin from UVA/UVB damaging rays that intensify post acne marks
• Time-released oil control to help reduce clogged pores and mattify skin
• Non-comedogenic

Did you know?

Every pore has pimple potential.  Blemishes take 2-3 weeks to come to the surface, and treating only the blemish you see will not prevent the acne of tomorrow!  When your skin becomes clear, keep your acne under control by continuing the use of the Unblemish Regimen.  EVERY STEP HAS A PURPOSE AND BUILDS UPON THE LAST- this is key in every skincare regimen.  You really must practice consistency when it comes to your skincare products.  Use the entire line because they work with each other and build upon each other.

When you get your regimen, START SLOWLY... make sure you read up on the products and use them as directed.

The Rodan + Fields Doctors' tips for an emergency pimple:

Apply ice (with a napkin wrapped around it) for 10-15 minutes to reduce redness and swelling.  Cleanse with the Sulfur Wash (it will clear pores and shrink swelling) and apply Unblemish Dual Intensive Acne Treatment to help reduce inflammation.  Then, apply a thin layer of a medicated concealer to camouflage.

IF you have time and the pimple is too enormous to be seen in public, get a cortisone shot from your dermatologist.

To Purchase and Enroll as a Preferred Customer:

• Click here and receive 10% off all R+F products and free shipping on your replenishment orders!

To check out the Rodan + Fields Redefine Regimen that I use:  My Secret to Amazing Skin

As always, email me with any questions you may have- I'm always happy to help... and I absolutely LOVE when people tell me how these Rodan + Fields products have changed their skin:

blondeandlippy@gmail.com

The MACRO Exfoliator ...(My New Favorite Thing)

Professional Level, Doctor's Office Results at Home?!  I was skeptical, but....

This is 100%, hands-down the absolute best at-home beauty tool beauty ANYTHING I have ever used.  I had been thinking about trying the Rodan + Fields Macro E for a long time, and I honestly never got around to trying it until recently.  I did not want to spend the money on it, but I have never been more amazed at the results of anything skincare related. After ONE USE, I could tell a major difference in my skin.  Don't believe me? Look at the below photo!  I swear to you... the before and after were taken 5 minutes apart.
My skin had never looked so vibrant and SMOOTH.  This is definitely the path to "luminous skin."

UNRETOUCHED- My forehead (yikes!) after my first time using the Macro E

Honestly, I should have known it was going to be fabulous after I read about it in "O Magazine"... you know Oprah knows her stuff! Haha!  But really, as I am getting older I am realizing that if there is one thing I want to invest in, it's my skin!

Here are a few things I DID NOT KNOW about the Macro E until I used it:
It is intense! There is a lot of suction going on, so use with caution.  You can do the auto-setting "Doc-Smart" patent pending technology, which varies the degree and duration of the macro-exfoliation.  The screen will show you which area of the face you should be exfoliating (and the direction and amount of time you should spend there).  This is how I started, but I did have to adjust the intensity throughout the process for my first use.  I love that you can adjust the intensity because you can start out easy and work your way up.
It comes with filters, so after each use, you can actually SEE the skin cells that shed during the exfoliation.  (Gross but cool.)
You can download a "Macro E" app on your phone to track your progress and have reminders sent to you for your next use.
You can only use it once a week!

The reason these Rodan + Fields products and tools are so great is that the doctors set out to create products that closely resemble what they used in their own practices.  The Macro Exfoliator sweeps away 5 million dead skin cells in just 5 minutes.  I was seriously shocked that just one use could so drastically change my skin and fine lines.  One thing I was worried about was that my face would be beet red for a few days... but thankfully, your Macro E comes complete with "cooling gels" that soothe your skin overnight.  

"Cooling gels" that come with your Macro E

I have only used mine one time, and I cannot wait to see how my skin looks after weeks of using it!  Another thing I think it helped with was blackheads... my skin just looked so smooth and clear after that one use!  I can't imagine blackheads would even be able to build up if you are continually using this.

You should hold your skin taut while using the Macro Exfoliator.

UNRETOUCHED results from using the Redefine Regimen with the Macro Exfoliator

SHOP THE POST:

Click here to purchase the Macro Exfoliator.*

Click here to purchase the Aging Redefined Value Set that includes the Redefine Regimen AND the Macro Exfoliator. **

To save $36.00 on your Macro Exfoliator and get free shipping and discounts ALL the time on ALL your Rodan + Fields products, sign up to be a Preferred Customer.

*Please read thoroughly before purchasing, as people with certain skincare conditions are not candidates for the Macro Exfoliator.

**For more information on the Rodan + Fields skincare regimen I use: My Secret to Amazing Skin.

As always, please feel free to email me with any questions:  blondeandlippy@gmail.com

What's Your Secret? ...Featuring: Fay

Meet Fay, an uber talented (and need I say gorgeous) photographer that resides in the city of Miami.  Fay, my first ever BFF (she was born in New Orleans), is totally mesmerizing because she somehow manages to look perfect while leading her incredibly active life- whether she's at the beach, in the water, or doing a photo shoot... (or all of those things at the same time) she is always flawless.

What is your all-time favorite beauty product discovery?

Blinc "Tube" Mascara .  I usually despise mascara because it flakes off and I always end up with circles under my eyes!  But this mascara stays put... you just wash your eyes with warm water and pull it off at the end of the day.  It is awesome!

If you had ONE beauty secret to share with my readers, what would it be?


Coconut Oil! I love love love coconut oil!  It is one of the best all natural moisturizers that will not clog your pores.  The possibilities are endless... You can add a tablespoon to a bath or mix it with sugar to make a scrub. It makes a great cheekbone highlighter.  I use it as a tanner when I lay out.   I put a tablespoon in my smoothies and use it to cook- it has amazing nutritional benefits.


What are 3 beauty products you could not live without?


1. My Laura Mercier Eyebrow Pencil
2. My Radiant Antioxidant Moisturizer by Prasada Beauty

3. My Protective Illuminating Concealer by beingTRUE

What health and fitness rules do you live by?  


I drink organic smoothies every morning.  I swim in the ocean.  And instead of eating three large meals a day, I eat several small meals throughout the day.

Check out Fay’s photography:
www.FayBaldwin.com

Yours Truly & Fay circa 19eightysomething

Rodan and Fields Night Renewing Serum

Check out one of my favorite facial products in Vogue.  In case you were curious as to what they actually do, these little blue capsules "tell cells what to do... multipeptides instruct cells to increase collagen production.... increase the activity of anti-aging ingredients, reduce hyperpigmentation, and calm inflammation."

Rodan + Fields Night Renewing Serum- what you need to know:

• intense anti-wrinkle treatment (not a moisturizer)
• the peptides signal collagen production, reducing the appearance of lines
• retinol renews skin, improves skin texture, minimizes and refines pores
• actives are time-released using Microsponge technology for longer lasting results

I use this serum AFTER my Rodan and Fields facewash/mask and toner (seen in this post).  You twist and pull then apply serum directly to your face.  I let it set for a minute then apply my R+F "pm" Overnight Restorative Cream.

For my entire skincare regimen:  My Secret to Amazing Skin

To purchase:

• Night Renewing Serum
• Or sign up to be a Preferred Customer (to enjoy PC Perks) and use the entire regimen.

My Secret to Amazing Skin: Rodan + Fields

Ever since this post, I've been testing out gazillions (feels like it) of skincare products to see what I like the most.

Within the first week of using this line of products, I knew this was the answer to my skincare and anti-aging needs.  However, I wanted to use it for a little while longer and be 100% sure before I actually posted about it for my readers...

I am happy and EXCITED to say that I loved each and every thing about this line of products from Rodan + Fields.  After I posted asking for everyone's skincare secrets, my friend Kelly called me and said, "Lauren, what have you been using? You need to use Rodan and Fields!"  So, because Kelly is the mother of a 12 year old and still looks like she does (please see her GORGEOUS pictures below), I took her advice...

She could not have been more right.  We have both tried pretty much EVERY product under the sun... (from Saks, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, Earthsavers, the dermatologist, etc.) and this is by far our favorite and the most effective... and it does not irritate your skin.

Why is it so great?? Where do I begin...

First, let me say that I was incredibly hesitant to try something that wasn't really mainstream or sold conventionally.  Then, I found out Rodan and Fields was originally sold in department stores like Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, and Nordstrom.  It was actually Nordstrom's #1 skincare product in 2005 before the doctors of Rodan and Fields decided to market and sell the brand differently.

With that new info, and knowing these doctors also created Proactiv, I decided to give it a try.  I swear I could tell a difference in my skin after my first night of use.  The overnight cream and night renewing serum just did wonders on my skin.  It felt so soft and moisturized (but not greasy) the next morning.  And after just one week, I could see a major difference in the fine lines on my face.

So, I loved the product line, but I didn't know if I wanted to actually sign up to receive products every month, etc (you do not HAVE to do this).  At first, I did this because in the long run it was cheaper- then I found that it kept me from skimping on the products (i.e. not using them every day or not using enough of the product).  Knowing that I was going to do a re-order anyway made me eagerly use the products and also try some of the other R+F products (like the self tanner, Macro Exfoliator, Microdermabrasion Paste, I could go on and on!).  I have loved everything I have tried so far, and as I've said before, if I DO NOT like something, I will not recommend it to you. (more posts to come on these other products)

After doing more and more research on the company, I decided to become a consultant.  I love that I am now representing this line of skincare products that I truly love and believe in.  There are 4 different lines for different skin types, so everyone can improve their skin according to their own needs.   Not to mention, I was using the products regardless, so becoming a consultant gave me a MAJOR discount.  Mark my words, use it a few weeks and you will have better skin than you thought you ever could.

My skincare regimen consists of the REDEFINE products.  I use the Daily Cleansing Mask, Pore Minimizing Toner, Night Renewing Serum, a.m. Triple Defense Treatment Cream (with SPF 30), p.m. Overnight Restorative Cream, and the Lip Renewing Serum every single day.

Yes it may seem like a lot, but I honestly look forward to it every night.  It's my little ritual before bed.  I love that I feel like I'm doing something good for myself and pampering myself every single night (because I am... goodbye wrinkles!).

My Nightly Ritual

Night Renewing Serum: a potent, proprietary blend of peptides and retinol; patented time-release technology; it is a retinol in a form that will not irritate your skin!

Lip Renewing Serum: contains peptides and antioxidants that help lips retain moisture, smoothes lip texture, and reduces the appearance of lines in your lip... I think it has even plumped my lips!

You massage this facewash onto your skin (it's lightly exfoliating)... let it dry about 1-2 mins then wash off.  I love it because it doesn't dry out your face but still gets it really clean.

And one more thing:

Goodbye to the "product graveyard" in my bathroom closet.  I am sick and tired of using something for a few weeks and not seeing results... or for that matter, using it and seeing results like crazy- extreme peeling, redness, etc.  They say to wait and that's the process- yeah right.  Who really has the time to have a red and peeling face every so often??  It seemed like it never ended.

Unsure about which regimen is right for you?  Use the R+F Solution Tool:

• Rodan + Fields Solution Tool

To shop products now:

• Rodan + Fields Preferred Customers

If you have any questions about any of these products or want to learn more about being a part of the Rodan and Fields company, please feel free to email me:  blondeandlippy@gmail.com

Blackhead Melting Gel

Seriously, just the name of this stuff made it a must-buy for me.  So many of you have sent me questions on how to get rid of blackheads.  It's obviously a problem that everyone faces... and HATES!  While I do think my skincare routine (posting on it next week) keeps blackheads away, I want to try this stuff and have it on hand just in case.  

Whether you have blackheads are not, this is a good product for skin cell turnover... which, as you may know from this post, is super important!

From Laneige:

• Melting Gel containing Keratinase enzyme which effectively melts down dead skin cells like blackhead and easily rollable silicon melting-massager create synergy effect to melt down dead skin cells and blackheads that aare clogging trouble-prone areas of nose and he surrounding areas.
• Keratinase mostly made of Keratin which is effective in dissolving excess dead skin cells and blackhead is superior to AHA, commonly used for dissolving dead skin cells in less damaging but more effective way of melting and removing blackhead clogged poreand dead skin cells. It facilitates skin cell turn-over and changes dark and rough skin surface into smoother and brighter skin.

Purchase with FREE SHIPPING:
                                                               

The Best Highlighters ...and Highlighting & Contouring

Benefit High Beam & Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer 

Benefit High Beam & Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer are 2 of my favorite products.  High Beam, an oldy but a goody, has taken on a new meaning for me since I have learned about highlighting and contouring.  Highlighting and contouring really does wonders for your face (like making it look a lot thinner!!)... and these products give you a beautiful glow as well.

Benefit High Beam is definitely my favorite of the two; however, some people don't like it because of the pinkish tint it has.  That is why I posted the Josie Maran Illuminizer as well.  Also a great product, and has more of a bronzey color to it.

Please note that both pictured are the travel sizes, so when you click the links they will look a bit different.  

By the way, while searching these items I found a great deal on the Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer & the Josie Maran Color Stick I told you about in this post.  You can get both for $29.00:

• Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer & Color Stick Duo

FYI:  these products are for use where I have shaded in the highlight portion of the diagram... not for a diagram like this.  These products have too much sheen to be used all over the face.