Summer Lips

Summer is rearing its sweltering head and one of the first effects it has on me is dry lips. Lately, my normal day-to-day lip balm (Maybelline Baby Lips) just doesn’t cut it anymore.

Instead of buying and trying out a new lip balm, I opted for

Dr. Kaufmann Medicated Sulfur Soap

(image from Amazon.com)

Some months ago, I started experiencing cystic acne. That was a first for me since I usually just have normal pimples, especially when it’s nearing my time of the month. If you don’t know, cystic acne is when the spot is deep under the skin, causing a large bump that’s highly uncomfortable, if not painful.

I tried my usual spot treatments (tea tree oil and VMV Red Better Spot Treatment) but they did little. I knew that it’s recommended to go to a dermatologist for cystic acne, but with my student budget, that was quite implausible. So I changed my skincare and spot treatment in an attempt to improve my face even a little. Nothing worked the way I wanted it to.

Aqua Massage Cellulose Sponge

If you have sensitive skin, you know how hard it is to find an effective daily loofah that both does its job and does not irritate your skin, That’s why my advice is to use cellulose sponges instead of the hard and rough loofah usually found in stores.

Neem Oil

If you’ve ever had scabies, you know it’s hell. You can’t sleep, you can’t show your skin, and you can’t touch people since it’s contagious. There are topical medications recommended by dermatologists, but if you want the organic route, try Neem Oil. It’s known as an all-around treatment for skin issues. Word of warning, though: it stinks like hell. As in make-you-nauseous stinks.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

If you only have a budget for one face brush, get this one. It’s the best brush I’ve tried that gives a great, no-makeup finish. It doesn’t eat the liquid foundation so there’s no wastage and

OraCare Mouthwash

This is the only mouthwash I can use without tearing up and having a fiery mouth. It’s gentle and non-abrasive but still leaves you with a fresh and clean feel.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Coralberry

I think everyone should have a go-to lipstick that just flatters her face like no other. It’s that shade that when you put on and look in the mirror, you instantly see the effects. Your face is brighter, maybe younger (if that’s the effect you’re going for), or generally more put-together. Of course, this depends on your skin color, lip color, and personality. Put on a liptick (keep hygiene in mind) and see if you like the effect.

Pond’s White Beauty Detox Spotless White Cream

I’ve mentioned in my previous post that I have a problem with dark spots after a bout of acne so I lean towards skincare that address that. One such skincare is the Pond’s Detox Spot-less White. When I use this at night, in the morning, I get a brighter, more uniform skin. It’s not so effective for spot treatment (I’ve tried), but that’s not its purpose anyway. It’s more or less an over-all face cream that evens out the skin.

Gluta-C Intense Whitening Underarm and Bikini Skin Whitening Gel

I have an issue with discoloration on my face after a bout of acne. The dark spots left by pimples are troublesome. True, they go away on their own and, thankfully, don’t leave scars, but it’s better if they disappear quicker.

VMV Red Better Flare-up Balm

I’ve mentioned the VMV Red Better Line before for my face. I also use the line for my sensitive skin which has occasional flare-ups of rashes on my body, especially during that time of the month.

VMV Essence Skin-saving Superwash

Having sensitive skin, VMV Hypoallergenics is a staple in my skincare and body care. I use their Red Better Line for my face and occasional body rashes. For my hair and scalp, I use this as my everyday shampoo.

Egyptian Magic Cream

I’ve mentioned Lucas Pawpaw Ointment in previous posts as an all-around balm. Similar to LPO is Egyptian Magic Cream. It’s touted to be a staple for Hollywood stars because of the amazing effects on the skin. Given that, I assume this could be used all over the face. I use this mostly to calm my skin (spec.my leg) after shaving.

Lucas Pawpaw Ointment

If you have to buy only one all-around balm, choose this. This ointment has saved my sensitive skin countless times from itchiness, rashes, and minor cuts. It’s what I apply when my skin is acting up because of irritants (of course, for more serious flare-ups, consult a dermatologist).

VMV Red Better Spot Corrector

This VMV Red Better Spot Corrector is saving my sanity right now. I’ve currently developed hormonal acne, cystic ones, that are just soooo uncomfortable.

On Lipsticks

I love wearing lipstick. I have to wear one; otherwise, I'd look sick and gray. My lips just aren't naturally colored.

My favorite everyday color is Revlon's Coral Berry. It's a great brightening color that flatters me very well and I make sure to always bring it in my makeup bag.

My Five-product School Face

Okay, I won’t actually show you my face but I will show you the products.

1. Belo Sun Expert SPF 40 for the Face. SPF is important, a lot of people will tell you that. Since I tend to have pigmentation from healed blemishes, wearing SPF keeps them from darkening. This one from Belo is hypoallergenic and non-greasy.

What's in My Makeup Bag?

Since my school days are long (whose isn’t?), I bring some things to freshen me up, counteract any allergies, and keep me groomed (especially since my PE is in the afternoons).

1. Sebamed moisturizing lotion. The only lotion that doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.
2. Xylitol Berry-flavored gum. I prefer mints but couldn’t find Smints, so this will do. It’s sugarless and supposedly helps against cavities. The berry flavor kinda tastes like medicine, but I like it.

Back to School 2014

The first week of school has ended (more like first two days) after a loooong break. Enrollment was pretty stressful for me. True, I finished mine in three hours, but in those three hours, I was on a roller coaster of emotion;