If you’ve ever read my beauty reviews, you know I don’t believe in miracles when it comes to anti-aging, weight-loss or skin care. But after a lifetime of having tried different products and a few years of sampling a wide array of skincare lines, here are a few that I believe in. They may not be miraculous in terms of turning back the clock, but they certainly help in giving the illusion of a more rested and glowing complexion, fuller eyelashes or a fake tan! I received samples of all the below, except for Latisse, which I paid for out of pocket and am happy that I did! I don’t do negative reviews, so when I do a round-up, it is of products I’ve actually used for a while and that I enjoyed.
FOR SMOOTH SKIN
It Cosmetics Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Radiance Illuminator claims anti-aging properties, but what I most like about it is that it instantly gives the illusion of a brighter complexion. It comes with instructions as to exactly where to apply this brilliant, cream-based illuminator so that you will look like you’ve gotten a good night’s sleep. It’s been my savior during social media conferences, when a tired face is hard to hide. I’ve even dabbed it under my eyes to fake a wide-eyed look!
It Cosmetics Serum and Anti-Aging Collagen Veil Primer not only nourishes the skin but preps it for the foundation or BB/CC Cream of your choice. I’m a big fan of It Cosmetics as their products usually do deliver what they promise. At 50, the illusion of a smooth and flawless complexion is quite enough for me. If you are younger, it will probably make you look even better!
Estee Lauder Perfectionist CPR Line Smoother is a must for any woman with fine lines. I wouldn’t apply it before going to say, the gym, as it’s not cheap, but … for anything from date night to a photo shoot, it’s on! It really does fill in those fine lines: crows’ feet, forehead lines, and the “bar-code” around your lips … It claims to create a virtual “air-brush” and it really does. Keep in mind that it’s virtual, and you’ll love it!
Laura Mercier Skin Foundation Primer is another excellent primer that’s been in my cosmetics bag for a year now! This quality brand is a must for women who are ready to invest in beauty products that work. The primer glides on, filling lines and prepping skin for foundation or tinted moisturizer. Once it’s on, everything else you apply on top of it stays on!
AERIN Bronze Portable Illuminating Powder is a great way to fake a healthy glow on the go. It won’t spill all over your purse and it instantly gives the appearance of sunkissed cheeks. The lighter tones are perfect for fall or winter, and in summer you can definitely go darker.
Repechage Hydra Medic Clear Complexion Drying Lotion is hands-down the most effective acne spot treatment ever tested! I have a tween who is already enduring the hardships of acne, and she has been successfully using it for a few months now. A dab of the lotion before bedtime and by morning, the zit is literally almost gone. I’ve used it too and it worked on my ahem, mature skin just as well. Two thumbs up!
Repechage Biolight Brightening Overnight Cream is not for the budget-conscious. But for those ready for the splurge, it does eliminate discolorations and sunspots over time. Not to mention that it has a wonderful texture and pleasant scent. The body cream is just as effective. It is costly, but then you get what you pay for with this brand.
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ALL ABOUT EYES
Latisse definitely works to make your eyelashes and even eyebrows grow back! I was initially reluctant to dish out the money for this expensive treatment, but I was extremely curious about the product. I’d sampled other more affordable options before, but they were nothing to write home about. Now, Latisse … in six weeks of nightly treatment of upper lashes and eyebrows, I don’t need an eyebrow pencil anymore, and I can bat my eyelashes again! It works. But, apparently if you discontinue use, you will go back to the way you looked before. Sigh.
Urban Decay Big Fatty Mascara coupled with the results of Latisse, is impressive! Yes, it does look like you have thick luscious lashes, that go all the way up to your eyebrows. In fact when wearing glasses, I could feel my lashes brushing up against the lens. That could be considered an inconvenience but when I’m wearing contacts this mascara is my best friend!
Estee Lauder Eye Serum Advanced Night Repair moisturizes and immediately gives the appearance of a smooth and bright eye contour. It’s great for those of us who are more impatient and want to see, rather than just feel, the benefits of a good eye product.
Dermablend Smooth Indulgence Concealer immediately covers mild flaws, bruises, broken capillaries, and undereye circles. It won’t rub off or look fake if you know how to apply it. A few months ago, my dog dragged me to the ground when he darted in front of me when we were running together. The result, skinned knees, a day before a TV appearance in which I was to wear a dress. The concealer took care of that concern.
What are the miracle products you swear by?
Lorraine C. Ladish is Editor-in-Chief of Mamiverse. You may follow her @lorrainecladish and @mamiverse
