Maddie Lynn: Korean Skincare

Showing posts with label Korean Skincare. Show all posts

Summer Favorites Pt. 2: Hair Care, Beauty, & Skincare

Friday, September 4, 2020

While Fall is right around the corner, I wanted to make sure I shared my FAVORITE beauty products from this summer. I have discovered a lot of new brands and products that I absolutely love and that really are game changers in my routine!

Hair Care:

The Good Stuff: Volumizing & Hydrating Foam- I LOVE this stuff! I never feel like their is extra product in my hair, but yet I can feel a difference in my hairs health and texture.

The Good Stuff: No Rinse Color Hair Conditioner - Since I dye my hair I love using this to help my color last and it also smells amazing!

Dove Dry Shampoo - I have been using this same dry shampoo since college and always go back to it because it works. It doesn't have a horrible white cast and it also leaves your hair fresh.

T3 Wand - I know a lot of people use and talk about the T3 wand, and I can definitely say that it is worth the type (and the price). I love the shape of the barrel (and the fact that I can buy other sizes). My hair also lasts two days with these curls which is a double bonus! (plus, it doesn't make your hair smell fried)

Kristin Ess Detangler - This is my go to detangler because it is simple, fragrance free, and helps me feel more confident about brushing my hair without damaging it.

CALA Detangling Hair Brush - While we are on the topic of tangled hair, I recently discovered the CALA detangling brush and it is absolutely amazing! I love that it is curved and contours to my head. Honestly I think this brush is better than the Wet brushes.

Clairol 6R Light Auburn Hair Dye - This summer I have been trying out a new hair dye, and have been using the light auburn 6R shade from Clairol. I really like the natural shade of this color, but the only downside is the vibrancy in the color doesn't last as long as I would like.

Skincare:

Cerave Foaming Face Wash - This face wash is all the hype on TikTok and Youtube and it definitely should be because it is such a great product. I used to use this in High School and only just started using it again this summer. I love that it is gentle and full of great ingredients that build up your skin.

Cerave Moisturizing Cream - I always feel that my skin gets super dry with changes in the weather, so I have been living for Cerave's moisturizing cream.

Ordinary Niacinamide & Zinc Serum - This is another one of those products that has blown up on the internet, but I actually first used it about a year ago and just picked it up again this summer. I love the ingredients in it that are great for breakout prone skin.

Urban Skin RX: Clear Skin Cleansing Balm - This is quite a unique product that I have really been loving in helping keep my hormonal breakouts at bay. It has sulfur which helps with breakout prone skin, plus you can also use it as a mask.

First Aid Beauty Sunscreen - This sunscreen is awesome! I have been consistently using it this summer and even use just this (no makeup) on some days. This sunscreen is mineral based also tinted.

Beauty:

Burts Bees Peppermint Lip Balm - This is my favorite lip balm of all time! I love the refreshing feel of pepermint and it always helps keep my lips unchapped.

Glossier Stretch Concealer (G12) - I never thought I would be a glossier fan and then I tried it and they changed my mind! The stretch concealer is the main foundation I use, and just apply it to the areas I need a bit of coverage. My favorite makeup artist, Katie Jane Hughes uses this concealer all the time in her looks, and it really does work and give the best natural finish.

Glossier Cloud Paint (Dawn) - I love a good cream paint and couldn't pass up trying Glossier's cloud paint in Dawn for the perfect peachy shade, and I absolutely love it!

Florence by Mills Brow Gel (honey) - I have recently gotten into using brow gel for a more natural brow style and the Brow Gel from Florence by Mills brand at Ulta is one of the only red/auburn colors that I have found.

Have you tried any of these products?

- Madison

Skincare On A Budget

Monday, July 16, 2018

If you know me, you know I LOVE skincare! However, if you know me you also know I don't like paying full price for things or spending loads of money on something just because of it's name. I like to find more affordable options for everything from fashion to skincare (usually)!
With that, I thought I would put together a curated list of my favorite products that I use on a weekly basis that won't break the bank:) I am all about following the Korean 10 step skincare method, but I am also not about to spend a fortune on products. Thus, I have created a good routine of products that follow the 10 step Korean skincare method while still being affordable and full of healthy ingredients for your skin (these products are my staples). The even better part is that most all of these products can be found at your local Target. A few of the products like Mario Badescu are only found at Ulta, Anthropologie or Urban Outfitters, but overall if you don't have access to Target or Ulta you can find most all of them on Amazon for affordable prices.

Affordable 10 Step Korean Skincare:

Oil Cleanser (aka. your makeup remover) - This step not only removes all of your makeup, but oil cleansers actually cause your skin to produce LESS oil. To use apply to your dry face, massaging it into the skin to melt away makeup (or impurities if you are makeup free), then splash water onto your face to emulsify, rubbing it in more...then rinse off or remove with a makeup remover cloth/washcloth (my preferred method). I LOVE the Trader Joe's oil cleanser, but the Burt's Bee's is basically the same formula for a good price.
Water Based Cleanser (Gel/Foaming Face Wash) - This is what gives us the "double cleanse"! This step removes any access residue or impurities. I have been using this Cerave cleanser off and on for years after it was recommended by a dermatologist.
Toner - Toners help to add moisture back to your skin as well as reset our skins pH levels. This step can be done by either applying it to your face with your hands, spritzing, or using a cotton pad. I love using the Mario Badescu Aloe/Rose spray! It's not as over the top as some toners as it aids more with moisture and refresh, but it feel amazing on skin and is super affordable.
Essence - This is known as the heart of the Korean Skincare routine and this Essence from elf is very affordable, makes your skin feel amazing, has a light scent, and gives your skin a healthy glow. Essence is basically a toner/serum hybrid made for hydration, skin repair, and cell turnover.
Serum - This step is all about targeting specific problems (acne, wrinkles, dry skin, dullness, etc.) with concentrated ingredients! Simply tap them into your skin. I love to use the "Restore" Serum by Valjean Labs because it's a cheap dupe of the Glossier Purity serum (which I do love).
Eye Cream - Eye cream is not something I ever used to consider in my routine but I am so glad it is part of my skincare now. While there are probably cheaper options out there than the eye cream from Bliss, I personally love this one because I LOVE the philosophy and mission behind Bliss and I know it will last me awhile.
Moisturizer (or sunscreen at am) - Hydration is the KEY to getting healthy, dewy, and glowing skin so moisturizers are a definite must! I started using the "ex-glow-sion" moisturizer from Bliss and am already on my second container (that's how much I love it)! It smells so light, a bit like Lavender and makes you skin feel super moisturized and calm once I put it on. I typically use this at night before I go to bed and use a sunscreen (MISSHA's Sun Milk) in the mornings.
Exfoliator - Exfoliating isn't a "have to" (especially if you have more sensitive skin) but it is a key component of polished/clean skin. It is recommended to exfoliate twice a week. I absolutely love the St. Ive's apricot scrub! I have been using it for years and love how affordable it is and how great my skin feels when I use it (some stores even have their own brand of it like Target, and sell it for even cheaper than name brand).
Mask - Okay, so clay mask's aren't actually a step in Korean Skincare but I make them an active part of my routine at least once a week. I love to use clay masks to absorb and draw out impurities and oils.....definitely my first step when I am having a bad breakout. Ever since I discovered the Freeman "Detoxifying" clay mask it has been my favorite because it is gentle and you can actually see it working....not to mention it is a great price.
Sheet Mask - Sheet Masks are probably the backbone of Korean Skincare....that's kind of the whole reason I got started on this new skincare routine to begin with. The amazing part about them is that they provide your skin with maximum treatment properties and moisture that your skin absorbs one or twice a week. When it comes to sheet masks you really can't go wrong, but Leaders masks and Tonyholy masks are some of my favorites (Tip: check your local Ross or Marshalls for sheet masks because they always have packs of them).
EXTRA: Vitamin C Serum - This is kind of an extra step, but has definitely helped brighten my skin. You can use Vitamin C serum as your serum step, along with another serum, or use after a mask once a week.

Have you used any of these products?

What is your go to skincare products on a budget?

-Madison

Travel Skincare & What I Can't Live Without

Thursday, February 1, 2018

Travel....it can be a bit of an overload for your skin! From changing temperatures, climates, and routines, lack of sleep, food, stress, its a LOT! I travel a decent amount throughout the year, but traveling cross country, especially flying, is a whole different ballgame. On my trip to NY I realized firsthand just how VITAL a good skincare routine is while traveling, so today I am sharing my Travel Skincare favorites, because my skin would not have survived New York without it:)

Lotion

Travel can seriously dry out your skin, especially if you are in a new and dry climate. Being in New York my skin got seriously dry (especially my hand) so I made sure to use hydrating lotion every morning and evening. I got Philosophy's Fresh Winter Morning lotion for Christmas and decided to bring it along. I am so glad I did because not only does it smell fresh (like a winter morning) but it helped my skin stay hydrated.

Face wash

So every once in awhile I change up my face wash/cleanser. I know....I know.....it's probably not the best thing to change up your skincare routine all to frequently, but every few months I usually give a new face wash a try if there is one I have heard great things about:) I have been hearing soooo much about Philosophy's face wash, specifically "Purity" and I personally was intrigued by their "Microdelivery Exfoliating Face Wash." Before I went on my trip I made a quick stop into Ulta and found a travel set of these two face washes from Philosphy. Since they were travel sizes and a great price I knew it was worth it to try them out (TIP: Buy the travel sizes of things before you know if something will work for you).

Purity: LOVE this stuff and it definitely lives up to the hype! I use it to take off my excess makeup and it is so gentle. What I love about it is that it isn't overly "soapy" so its cleansing power is gentle on my skin and makes it feel refreshed. Plus, as someone who struggles with breakouts this hasn't made me skin worse or bothered my acne. I typically use this in my morning routine, and use it occasionally at night.

Microdelivery Exfoliating Face Wash: OH MY GOSH!!! Seriously fell in love with this stuff too! I love using exfoliating face washes in my routine to buff away dry skin and smooth things out. Since this is a microdelivery exfoliator the exfoliation is small and gentle and I love how soft it makes my skin feel. I used this every night in NY and it was a great way to buff away the impurities of the day.

Face Oils

If you remember me mentioning in one of my past skincare posts I started implementing a "Korean" style skincare routine, focusing on more natural products (+ a LOT of steps) that help the general "health" of my skin. With that being said, face & skin oils are two things I have seen other bloggers and beauty gurus using and have always wanted to try them. I discovered MONASTERY through an Influenster group called Palm where am lucky enough to try out new products from unique small businesses. These two oils are so amazing & I am about to tell you why below!

Botanical Brighten Serum

MONASTERY'S Neroli Black brightening serum is sooo good! I have come to realize brightening serums & oils are a staple of my skincare routine. With everything my skin goes through (breakouts and acne due to hormones and stress......not fun) I am always focused on keeping my skin healthy and bright and Neroli Black has been a dream. This is a dry oil which soaks straight into the skin to rebuild cellular walls black English walnut oil (used to brighten dull skin) and regenerating squalane oil......not only does it smell amazing but it makes your skin feel and look amazing. Needless to say this oil had to come with me to New York because after long days, cold weather, and stress travel skin needs a brightening boost.

Rose Cleansing Oil

Part of Korean Skincare is using a cleansing oil and this rose oil from MONASTERY totally sold me! Anything Rose I am all for, and this elegant oil is so luxurious on my skin. I have used this to remove makeup (works great on eye makeup), renew parched lips, and even used as a moisturizer. I love that this oil is made with over 100 Edwardian rose petals and is gentle on sensitive and parched skin which I needed in New York. My skin got super dry being in the cold climate of NY so using this for more than a cleanser was a life saver!

VII Code Oxygen Eye Cream

If you caught my blog post about my collaboration with VII Code you will know how much I LOVE this eye cream! I don't know if you are like me, but I get super exhausted when traveling! Between late night plane rides, early morning, and long days, not only was my skin feeling the brunt of travel, but my eyes showed the exhaustion :) However, with this Oxygen Eye Cream I was able to give my eyes a boost in the morning so I didn't look like a total zombie....lol! Needless to say, eye cream is a travel necessity.

Coco Rose Lip Conditioner

And so my rose obsession continues....with good reason! This stuff is magic! Not only does Herbivore's coco rose lip conditioner smell heavenly and feel amazing on my lips, but it keeps them incredibly moisturized and especially pampered. And the fact that it is coconut oil + rose makes it a must have. I received this lip conditioner through Palm in my Velvet Report Vegan Beauty Box and absolutely fell in love (apparently I have fallen in love with a lot of skincare products recently). I am constantly applying chap stick throughout the day, so this lip conditioner is a perfect way to start my morning and end my evening and it especially helped my lips stay hydrate in the dry cold of New York.

SHOP SKINCARE FAVORITES:

Skincare Beauty Favorites: Summer 2017

Monday, June 26, 2017

Happy Monday lovelies! Today I thought I would share a bit about my current beauty routine and break down some of my favorite products that I have been using.

When it comes to my beauty routine I have definitely changed it up over the years due to my skin and throughout its highs and lows. I definitely don't have perfect skin, and constantly deal with breakouts and blemishes. I have used my fair share of topical treatments, prescriptions, and different face washes, but I don't think any of those products quite compare to my current routine which has boosted the heath of my skin tremendously and helped it regain its youthful glow and keep blemishes to a minimum (can you say BONUS)! My routine right now is my own personal take on the Korean Skincare system and craze that is taking the beauty industry by storm. While I don't use all Korean skincare products, I do take into account the steps (which are the most important) and with that, I think my skin is finally able to be happy.

Cleanse

Okay, so obviously the first step in my routine is to remove my makeup and cleanse. At night time I start out removing my makeup by washing my face with coconut oil in the shower. Since the Korean skincare routine encompases oil cleansers, I opt to use coconut oil to remove makeup which works like a dream. After I remove my makeup I then move on to cleanse and use the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle foaming cleanser which is AMAZING! This cleanser is definitely true to its name when it says gentle, and that is why I love it because it isn't full of medication or harsh on my skin and always leaves it fresh and smooth. My current philosophy seems to be less is more, because in the past my skin would get overwhelmed with the many ingredients, but now it can take a break because what I use is simple. (In the morning I use the same cleanser to wash my face.)

Toners & Essence

Toners and Essence are the next vital step when it comes to the Korean Skincare routine, and this is where I actually do use two Korean products. After I cleanse my face in the morning I apply the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence which aids in hydration, repair, and brightness. And if you are wondering about the "snail mucin" in the name you would be right in assuming that it does contain 96% snail mucin which is great for skin health, and I can definitely tell the difference in my skins feel and brightness and it definitely has become more smooth as some of my scars have begun to deminish:) If I need a little extra boost I will also use Mario Badescu facial spray which everyone raves about and I now understand the hype! Not only does it smell heavenly with a light rose scent, but it is rejuvenating, and makes my skin feel extra moisturized with a boost.

In the evening however, I alternate days using Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night pads which I use as my "chemical exfoliant" in the Korean skincare step routine. However, like I said, I alternate days with these, so when I am not using them I will use COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid which works as an essence and simple topical treatment for my pores, and I have definitely seen a difference in my skin adding this to my routine.

Sunscreen & Topical

Last but not least are two products that are vital to the health and youthfulness of my skin. As a fair complexioned person I am always needing to apply sunscreen in the summer but I always forget that daily using sunscreen on my face will help protect it from harsh rays and keep it looking younger longer. Therefore, I recently started using the MISSHA all around safe block waterproof sun milk and have been loving it! Typically sunscreen leaves your face feeling oily and its application heavy, but this formula is light, airy, dries once rubbed in and smells like a flower. Plus, since it is waterproof it holds up under humidity and sweat and also any dips in the pool.

As for topical treatments, I have always used some type of topical at night to keep my blemishes to a minimum or to try and completely eradicate them. Unfortunately, due to slightly sensitive skin I would always deal with my skin drying out or flaking (because of the medication) and I hated the feeling of putting chemicals on my face. However, last semester I decided to give Curology a try after seeing it pop up on social media and the Internet, and OH MY GOSH my skin hasn't been the same since! You will definitely have to go check out Curology for yourself, but it was created to give you a personalized prescription for your face, depending on your blemishes. What I love the most, is that it isn't full of harsh chemicals, but rather focuses on the health of your skin itself which aids in healing breakouts, and I kid you not, when I wake up in the morning my skin always feels smoother :)

The only other thing I will add to my skincare routine once/twice a week is a clay mask to draw out impurities or a sheet mask (also part of Korean Skincare) to restore my skins moisture and glow.

Have you heard/tried any of these products?

Have you ever tried out the Korean Skincare routine?