The Skin Brightening Effectiveness Of Vitamin C Serums

March 12, 2021February 15, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGood8 Comments

Since I haven’t been wearing makeup as often during this time of staying home and mask wearing, I’ve been focusing even more on skincare. I love skincare and fully believe that the most important part of any makeup application is well taken care of healthy skin. While certain aspects of skin health are out of our control, there are certain things we can all do to improve the health and look of our skin, like daily sunscreen use, moisturizing, and always removing makeup before going to bed.

When filling out a beauty survey that asks what is my main “skin concern”, I always check the box that says dark spots/skin discoloration and dull skin. While some of these issues are from years of sun exposure while not wearing sunscreen, the usual cure for brightening skin is Vitamin C serums. I want bright skin! Over the years I have used a lot of different Vitamin C Serums, a lot! I’ve used expensive ones, inexpensive ones, and all kinds of in between priced ones too.

Let me give you a quick run down of some of the ones that I have tried recently…

Cerave Vitamin C Serum
Skincare Radha Rosehip Oil
Yes To Grapefruit Glow Boosting Daily Exfoliating Tonic
Asterwood Naturals Vitamin C
Vitamin c serum from Derma-E
Drunk Elephant C-firma day serum
*Some of the above links are affiliate links

cerave Vitamin C Serum | lookingjoligood.blog — cerave Vitamin C Serum

Cerave Vitamin C Serum 1 fl oz for $20 USD I have always had great success with the majority of the Cerave products that I have used. When it comes to Vitamin C serums this one is priced pretty middle of the road at $20, and it works well. I always thought it had a bit of a strange scent to it, but from reading other reviews and talking to others that have used it, I think that is just the way it smells. I have purchased this serum several times.

skincare rosehip oil | lookingjoligood.blog — Skincare Radha Rosehip Oil

Skincare Radha Rosehip Oil 4 fl oz for $15. This is a great price for the amount of product, $3.75 USD per ounce. Since it is an oil, it can breakdown some foundations and face products, so it definitely doesn’t work well underneath makeup. I usually used it at night as part of my overnight skincare routine. Over time it added some brightness to my skin but because of the heavy sticky feeling on my skin it is not my favorite.

Yes To Grapefruit Tonic | lookingjoligood.blog — Yes To Grapefruit Tonic

Yes To Grapefruit Glow Boosting Daily Exfoliating Tonic 4 fl oz for $15 While technically not a vitamin c serum, this tonic boasts that it will brighten the skin while making it glow. Every night when I use this tonic, it always gives my skin a bit of a tingling stinging feeling. I use this tonic every evening after I double cleanse my skin before I moisturize and put on serums. I have used about half of the bottle, so far I haven’t noticed a large enough of a difference in the texture and brightness of my skin to justify the added step in my skincare routine.

Asterwood Naturals | lookingjoligood.blog — Asterwood Naturals Vitamin C

Asterwood Naturals Vitamin C 1 fl oz for $13 I purchased these ones over and over again. They have the classic vitamin c hot dog water scent to them. While I did enjoy these serums at the time that I was consistently using them, I haven’t repurchased them in a while.

vitamin c serum from Derma-E | lookingjoligood.blog — V itamin c serum from Derma-E

Vitamin c serum from Derma-E 2 fl oz for $20 USD I started using it in May and just finished this bottle and I have already purchased another one to replace it. It has a nice light scent and doesn’t feel oily or weighty on the skin. It can be worn well under makeup and includes hyaluronic acid. I think it is a good product and I’m looking forward to continuing using it.

C-firma day serum | lookingjoligood.blog — Drunk Elephant C-firma day serum

Drunk Elephant C-firma day serum 1 fl oz for $80. I faithfully used this every single day for five months until I had used the entire bottle… I noticed some slight brightening to my skin, but overall I did not see enough of a difference to justify that high of a price point for something that I can get a similar quality product at a much lower price.

Overall, do I think that Vitamin C serums brighten the skin the way they promise…yes and no. With consistent use, I have noticed that my skin has a nice look to it. Have I noticed any lightening and brightening of sun discoloration, age spots, and dark spots?…No, not really, at least not an overwhelmingly noticeable difference that I would continue to pay large amounts of money for.

Out of all the vitamin c serums I have used which one do I recommend…drum roll please… I prefer the Vitamin c serum from Derma-E with a close second runner up Cerave Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serums can be all over the place when it comes to pricing. Just because a product costs more does not mean that it is more effective. The derma-e product is a quarter of the price of Drunk Elephant C-Firma, while twice the amount as the Skincare Radha Rosehip Oil per ounce.

The best advice I can give you when it comes to brightening the skin and decreasing premature age spots…

Use sunscreen daily to prevent sunspot and premature aging

Use Suncreen | lookingjoligood.blog — Use Sunscreen

If you like what you see here check me out on Instagram, @lookingjoligood. Generally, I mostly post pictures of food, plants, and puppies, (what can I say, I love what I love!) There are also plenty of pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. 😉

What about you? Have you used any vitamin c serums? Did you notice any difference? Did you have any sensitivities or irritations? Let me know in the comment section below.

I would love for you to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three. I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Empties

One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure…More Accurately, One Woman’s Trash is Full of Beauty Treasures

March 5, 2021February 14, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Coincidentally, it always seems as if I run out of everything at the same time! All of a sudden I end up with a bunch of empty beauty product containers on my bathroom counter. Since I write a beauty blog I am forced to save them all and take a photo of them all together and also individually so that I can tell you all about my beauty empties, you’re welcome. 😉

Empties | lookingjoligood.blog — One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure…More Accurately One Woman’s Trash is Full of Beauty Treasures

In this post I don’t plan to give an in-depth review of each of these beauty products, but instead I will do a speed review while also letting you know if I have already repurchased, or plan to repurchase each product, or if I have since found something that I like better. I have tried to link everything when possible. If you are wondering, I purchased the majority of these products at Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Ulta.

Are you ready? It’s going to be a long one! Let’s talk trash…

Skin and Co Whipped Cleansing Cream
Murad Resurgence Rapid Collagen Infusion
Colgate Whitening crystal mint
Nivea Moisture Lip Care
Aveeno positively radiant 60 second in-shower facial
Trader Joe’s Facial Toner
Aussie 3 minute miracle
Dr Teal’s Rejuvenating Eucalyptus Body Lotion
Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette
Caress body wash
Derma-E Vitamin C
Yes To Grapefruit Tonic
Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Kids Extra-Moisturizing Detangler
*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Skin and Co Whipped Cleansing Cream 3.38 FL oz $26 USD at Ulta Beauty I was so sad to finish this cleansing cream. It has a nice smooth texture and a light pleasant scent. It leaves my skin feeling clean and smooth without over drying or leaving a greasy feeling. I loved this so much that I cut it open so that I could used every single drop of the product in this tube. I have already repurchased this cleansing cream.
10/10 Recommend

Murad Resurgence | lookingjoligood.blog — Murad Resurgence Rapid Collagen Infusion

Murad Resurgence Rapid Collagen Infusion 1 oz for $79 USD. It is a light non-greasy formula with a lavender scent. I am not a fan of the scent, but it isn’t overwhelming or overpowering and doesn’t linger the way the scent of some facial products do. Murad boasts that this product will improve the look of the skin in two hours…I’m not sure why they would lie like that, but after consistent use of this product I feel like it’s made a difference in the look and feel of my skin. At $79 for 1 oz, this product is not cheap! Is it totally worth the high price… maybe, did I repurchase it, yes.
10/10 Recommend

Colgate Whitening crystal mint 4.6 oz $1 USD at Dollar Tree. I have extremely sensitive teeth, because of that I cannot use many types of toothpaste. I switch between this Colgate Whitening crystal mint toothpaste and sensodyne pronamel toothpaste (4 oz for $6 USD). I’ve been using them together for about three years and haven’t noticed any increased sensitivity to my teeth. Yes, I have already repurchased this toothpaste.
10/10 Recommend

nivea lip care | lookingjoligood.blog — nivea lip care

Nivea Moisture Lip Care 4.8 g $3.50 USD for a double pack. I’ve been using this moisture lip care for years. It is smooth in texture and is unscented. I have been repurchasing this nivea lip care for years… that is until I accidentally purchased the Vaseline Original Lip Therapy (4.8g $0.97 UDS) Vaseline one is in the same exact blue and white packaging, it is a very similar product, but I like it just a little bit more than the Nivea one.
I still 10/10 Recommend the Nivea Moisture Lip Care, but I have been repurchasing the Vaseline Original Lip Therapy instead.

Aveeno positively radiant | lookingjoligood.blog — Aveeno positively radiant

Aveeno positively radiant 60 second in-shower facial 5 oz for $8.50 UDS. I am a believer in exfoliating the skin. I’ve used all kinds of different types of exfoliants. This one is great because it leaves my face feeling smooth and looking “radiant” and fresh after I use it. It gently exfoliates my face without any sensitivity or over drying. Yes, I have already repurchased this Aveeno positively radiant 60 second in-shower facial.
10/10 Recommend

Trader Joes Facial Toner | lookingjoligood.blog — Trader Joes Facial Toner

Trader Joe’s Facial Toner 4 oz for $4 USD. This spray is hydrating and refreshing with a light not overwhelming rose scent. I use it twice a day every single day. I have repurchased this over and over again.
10/10 Recommend.

Aussie 3 minute miracle | lookingjoligood.blog — Aussie 3 minute miracle

Aussie 3 minute miracle 16 fl oz for $5.50 USD I love this stuff! It makes my hair feel so soft and smooth! It is thick and creamy. It is infused with avocado and jojoba oil which gives it a nice light fruity scent. I prefer this conditioner over many of the high-end more expensive hair conditioners that I have used. I have repurchased this over and over again.
10/10 Recommend.

Dr Teal's Body Lotion | lookingjoligood.blog — Dr Teal’s Rejuvenating Eucalyptus Body Lotion

Dr Teal’s Rejuvenating Eucalyptus Body Lotion 18 fl oz $5 UDS. Back a while ago when I was in physical therapy for my hurt arm I used to take a lot of epsom salt baths, and I feel in love with the Rejuvenating Eucalyptus scent of the bath salts. I purchased this lotion because I enjoy the light pleasant fresh and clean scent. It is a thinner consistency lotion that sinks into the skin quickly. While I don’t necessarily think it is the best lotion I have ever used when it comes to the softening of my skin, I enjoy the scent. I have already repurchased this lotion.
7/10 Recommend.

AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf by Cerave | lookingjoligood.blog — AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf by Cerave

You can read all about how I feel about this Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion by clicking HERE I have already repurchased this lotion several times. I love it, I use it every single day. I will alway be repurchasing this Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion.
10/10 Recommend.

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette | lookingjoligood.blog — John Frieda Brilliant Brunette

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette 8.3 fl oz for $12 USD. I’m getting to the point in my life where I have some gray hair but not really enough that I need to start consistently dying or coloring my hair. While I don’t necessarily think that this colour deepening conditioner has made any difference in the amount of gray hairs I have, I love the way it makes my hair feel and smell. I still have just as many gray hairs, but I have also repurchased this, I really love the scent.
1/10 recommend for colour deepening, 10/10 for scent and conditioning

Caress body wash | lookingjoligood.blog — Caress body wash

Caress body wash 18.6 fl oz for $5.30. This used to be my absolute favorite body wash…then they changes the scent and formula. I still like it, I don’t love it the way I once did. A few years ago I wrote a post all about how much I loved this Caress body wash. You can read all about it by clicking HERE. So, long story short, since I am super sensitive to scents and this one doesn’t give me headaches I have continued to repurchased it, and will continue to repurchase it.
The original scent and formula 10/10 Recommend…. the new scent and formula 6/10 Recommend

Derma-E Vitamin C | lookingjoligood.blog — Derma-E Vitamin C

You can read all about how I feel about this Vitamin c serum from Derma-E by clicking HERE In that post I shared about how I feel about vitamin C brightening serums in general and which ones I prefer the best out of all the ones that I have tried. While I do like this tonic I have not repurchased this at this time.
8/10 Recommend.

Yes To Grapefruit Tonic 4 fl oz for $15 USD As with the Derma-E Vitamin C, you can read all about how I feel about this Yes To Grapefruit Tonic by clicking HERE. I shared about how this one works as well as how I feel about vitamin C brightening serums. While I do like this tonic I have not repurchased this at this time.
6/10 Recommend.

Shea Moisture Kids Detangler | lookingjoligood.blog — Shea Moisture Kids Detangler

You can read all about how I feel about this Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Kids Extra-Moisturizing Detangler by clicking HERE I have already repurchased this detangler over and over again many many times.
10/10 Recommend.

Have you made it this far? Good for you for sticking it out😉

Like what you see here? Stop by Instagram, and visit my page @lookingjoligood. Generally, I post mostly pictures of food, plants and puppies, but there are pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. 😉

What about you? Have you used any of these products? Did you love them hate them? Did you repurchase any? Let me know in the comment section below.

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Review · Tips and Tricks

The Top Four Secrets To Keeping Your Long Hair Healthy

February 24, 2021February 25, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGood4 Comments

For the majority of my teens and twenties…and thirties… I kept my hair styled in a short above the shoulder bob. For the first time in years, I have long hair. Until recently, I had not been concerned with heat protection, special brushes, or detanglers, now keeping my hair strong and healthy is a high priority.

Here are my top four secrets I have adopted to keeping my long hair strong and healthy.

Laura | Lookingjoligood.blog — My current long hair

Protect your hair when it is most fragile
Hair is the most fragile when it is wet. Do not dry off your hair with a towel. The rough friction caused by the towel can cause fragile hair to break. Wrapping your wet hair on top of your head in a heavy towel can also put unnecessary pressure on your hair causing breaking to those fragile hairs around the hairline. Instead, I recommend using an old t-shirt to wrap your hair in. It is not only lightweight, but also surprisingly absorbent. I also recommend getting a brush specifically made for brushing wet hair. While there are several different types and brands, I recommend the one from the brand The Wet Brush.

Wet Brush | lookingjoligood.blog — The Wet Brush

2. Protect your hair from heat
Over time using heat to style your hair can cause hair damage giving the hair a dry and brittle appearance. Heat can also cause breakage and split ends, making it harder for your hair to lie flat. To get your hair back to its healthiest and shiniest, always use a heat protectant when heat styling your hair.
On the recommendation of YouTuber Jessica Braun (@jambeauty89 on IG) I purchased the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Kids Extra-Moisturizing Detangler. She has long beautiful shiny hair. While it is marketed as a kids product it has done wonders for my hair. When I use this spray I am even able to let my hair air dry without it looking frizzy or greasy. When I am heat styling my hair, it not only detangles, but also acts as a heat protectant. The detangling spray along with the Wet Brush used together are amazing at smoothing out and easily gliding through wet hair precteting it while most vulnerable!

Another heat protectant I absolutely love and recommend is the L’Oreal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Sleek It Iron Straight Heatspray $4 for 5.7oz. My hair is soft, shiny, and super smooth every time I use this spray. It claims to protect hair up to 450 degrees!

Loreal Blow Dry It Quick Dry Primer Spray | lookingjoligood.blog — L’Oreal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Sleek It Iron Straight Heatspray

3.Use a silk pillowcase and silk hair ties
If you are anything like me, you move around a lot while you are sleeping. All that friction between your skull and pillow can wreak havoc on your hair. I suggest buying a silk pillowcase. The smooth silky texture causes less friction which in turn causes less breakage. Another way damage and breakage can happen is from hair ties. I have been wearing a silk scrunchie whenever I pull my hair back, especially at night when I’m sleeping. I feel like these little silk changes have made a big difference in the health and strength of my hair. You can find the Mulberry Silk Bed Pillowcase I chose by clicking HERE. The nOir Jewelry Ombre Leopard scrunchies I have been using came in a set of three. Click HERE if you’re interested in purchasing a set for yourself.

nOir Jewelry Ombre Leopard scrunchie | lookingjoligood.blog — nOir Jewelry Ombre Leopard scrunchie

4. Stop using shampoo
The biggest change that I made… I stopped washing my hair with shampoo. I know, I know, you might not be convinced or want to try it for yourself. I still condition my hair daily when I shower, but about two years ago I stopped using shampoo. This little change has made a big difference. My hair has never been shinier, stronger, or healthier since I stopped using shampoo.

Here is a list of some of my favorite conditioners:
SheaMoisture Treatment Hair Masque for Extremely Dry Hair Manuka Honey and Yogurt
Aussie 3 minute miracle
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette
Shea Moisture Manuka Honey and Yogurt Conditioner

What about you? Do you have long hair or are you growing out your hair? Have you tried any of these methods to protect your hair? Did you notice any difference? Let me know in the comment section below.

Like what you see here, stop by Instagram and visit my page @lookingjoligood. Generally, on Instagram I post mostly pictures of food, plants and puppies, but there are pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. 😉

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Beaute Basics 3 Tone Bronzer | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com — My short hair with bangs

secrets to long healthy hair | lookingjoligood.blog — secrets to long healthy hair

Love and Life

Happy Valentine’s Day Sonnet 116 by William Shakespeare

February 14, 2021January 26, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Ever since I learned this sonnet in high school for a play I was in I’ve loved it. For some odd reason, at random times I find myself reciting it in my head. It is such a beautiful poem about the long-lasting effects of love despite the passing of time. Happy Valentine’s day from the master of love himself, William Shakespeare

Sonnet 116

BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

Let me not to the marriage of true minds
Admit impediments. Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove.
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;
It is the star to every wand’ring bark,
Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken.
Love’s not Time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle’s compass come;
Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,
But bears it out even to the edge of doom.
If this be error and upon me prov’d,
I never writ, nor no man ever lov’d.

Review

The Single Most Important Thing You NEED To Start Doing Right Away To Improve The Look and Health of Your Skin

February 13, 2021February 25, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

I wish I knew then what I know now! 🥺

I used to think that moisturizing my face would make it oily and sunscreen was only for days at the beach. 🏖️. Nope, I was incorrect about both! I have since started wearing sunscreen daily and alway moisturize my face. Ten years from now my face will be thanking me!

Daily use of sunscreen is the single most important thing you NEED to do to improve the look and health of your skin. It is as simple as that!

I have gone on a long and sometimes painful journey to find the best sunscreen for my skin. So many tested, so many failures. So many sunburns, so many breakouts. After many failures, I stumbled upon the AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf by Cerave and I fell in love.

Due to certain popular influencers in the beauty community Cerave is having a moment!

Theres’ so much hype around several of Cerave‘s products and for good reason, they are a really amazing brand that boasts about having “three essential ceramides in every product”. Recently in a previous post, I mentioned that I love and highly recommend the Cerave moisturizing cream, it is my favorite daily facial moisturizer. That’s not what I’m here to talk about today, today’s post is all about my favorite daily sunscreen that is also from Cerave.

The AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf is my go to moisturizing SPF. It’s perfect on its own and works great under makeup. This lotion is fragrance free, has a light-weight, non-greasy texture that sinks in quickly. The real winning feature is that it does not break me out the way that most spf products do. This Facial AM Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 acts as a moisturizer and sunscreen in one. One pump is enough to cover my entire face, ears and a bit of my neck. Three ounces cost around $13.

Cerave spf | lookingjoligood.blog — Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Cerave has it’s own website where you can find more products by clicking HERE. You can purchase this moist Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion at Target by clicking HERE. You can also check out Cerave on Amazon by clicking HERE or by visiting their Instagram page by clicking @cerave While you are over on Instagram, stop by and visit my @lookingjoligood account as well. Generally, I post mostly pictures of plants and puppies, but there are also pictures of makeup and beauty products as well.

Here is how Cerave boasts about it’s AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen:

“AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 30 SUNSCREEN
Non-comedogenic moisturizer with SPF
A hydrating face lotion is a key part of any morning skincare routine—and a moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF is critical for helping to protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays. For the hydrating effects of moisturizer and to restore the skin barrier, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides and a non-comedogenic formula, like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30, which won’t clog pores or cause acne flare-ups.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer is a morning skincare multitasker, featuring three essential ceramides, hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing niacinamide, plus our patented MVE Delivery Technology to supply much-needed moisture throughout the day. Offering Broad Spectrum sunscreen, our moisturizer with SPF 30 features InVisibleZinc™ Technology (microfine zinc oxide) that spreads easily and evenly without leaving a chalky residue. And because CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores, it’s ideal for all skin types.”
https://www.cerave.com/skincare/moisturizers/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-with-sunscreen

What about you? Have you used many Cerave products? Did you notice any difference in your skin? Did you have any sensitivities or irritations or did your skin feel fresh and renewed? Let me know in the comment section below.

Two other favorite sunscreens that I recommend are Coola Sport SPF 50 and Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50. Both of these are 50 spf which is a higher spf than the 30 spf of the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer. Neither of these broke out my skin, but neither performs as well underneath makeup as the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer.

Coola Sport SPF 50 | lookingjoligood.blog — Coola Sport SPF 50

Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50 | lookingjoligood.blog — Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50

*Some of the above links are affiliate links.

Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion | lookingjoligood.blog

Review

A Swipe a Day Keeps the Maskne Away : Biore Charcoal Cleansing Micellar Water

January 29, 2021January 24, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

During this time of mask wearing, keeping my skin clean and clear is harder and more important than ever! 😷

laura mask | lookingjoligood.blog — Wearing a mask is such an important preventive measure!

About five months ago, I started using this charcoal cleansing micellar water by Biore. Since consistently using this cleansing water, for the most part, I have been breakout free! It’s amazing what this cleansing water removes from my skin even after I double cleanse! 😝 I use it by wetting a cotton pad and wipe all over my face without the need for harsh rubbing, avoiding my eye area, until my skin is completely clean. There is no need to rinse it off. Personally, I use it in the evening after cleansing my face.

Biore Charcoal Cleansing Micellar Water | lookingjoligood.blog — Biore Charcoal Cleansing Micellar Water

It has a pleasant scent that’s not too overwhelming. The full 10 oz size costs around $7 USD and I get it at Walmart. The mini 2.5 fl oz version can usually be found in the travel sized section, and it costs around $3 USD.

Some of my favorite people in the world are nurses, and they’re working so so hard, hospitals are full and they are really tired! 👩‍⚕️🏥. Please stay home when possible, wash your hands thoroughly, and stay socially distant and wear a mask when out in public! We can get through this pandemic faster by working together!

You can check out biore charcoal cleansing micellar water at Walmart by clicking HERE or by visiting their Instagram page by clicking HERE.

While you are over on Instagram, stop by and visit my page as well @lookingjoligood. Generally, I post mostly pictures of plants and food, but there are occasionally pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. 😉

What about you? Have you been breaking out from wearing a mask? Have you tried using Biore charcoal cleansing micellar water ? Did you notice any difference? Did you have any sensitivities or irritations? Let me know in the comment section below.

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Here is how biore brags about its charcoal cleansing micellar water:

“We aim to show you accurate product information. Manufacturers, suppliers and others provide what you see here, and we have not verified it. See our disclaimerSpecially formulated for oily skin, it delivers an all-in-one clean, refreshed face anytime, anywhere. Makeup remover: dissolves even heavy makeup. Cleanser: removes dirt & oil from pores. Refresher: Absorbs excess oil.BiorÃ© Cleansing Micellar Water with Charcoal 10 fl oz

Ingredients: WATER, HEXYLENE, GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES, POLYSORBATE 20, DECYL GLUCOSIDE, PEG-12 LAURATE, SODIUM BENZOATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, DISODIUM EDTA, ISODODECANE, FRANGRANCE, CITRIC ACID, BENZOPHENONE-4, GREEN 5, ORANGE 4, CHARCOAL POWDER.

Instructions: How to Use: Wet a cotton pad and wipe all over the face until skin is completely clean. To remove eye makeup, hold the pad over closed eyes for a few seconds, and then just swipe away – no need for harsh rubbing. Use daily – morning, day or night. No need to rinse.“

Lifestyle

Looking To The Future With Hope

January 17, 2021March 29, 2021 LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Our children’s future can be brighter and better if we make important changes for them now.

Review · Weekly Product Highlight

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs, and Rosewater

June 24, 2017June 17, 2017 LauraJoli LookingJoliGood4 Comments

~Weekly Product Highlight~ Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs, and Rosewater~

I had heard great things about this facial spray with aloe herb and rosewater, so I was very excited to see how it worked. So many of the reviews say “this spray is life changing!” Little did I know how quickly I would become obsessed with it!

I love to try new skin care products and pamper my skin! I have normal to combo skin and get an occasional breakout here and there. This spray has been leaving my skin feeling glowy moisturized and smoothed. The nozzle gives a nice fine spray, making it possible to be used as an after makeup spray as well.

Like the name states, this spray has a light refreshing rose scent. Despite that fact that I love actual real flower roses, I’m not usually a big fan of rose scented things. This spray is an exception, I really love the scent of it! It is also available in an Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea version. I think that I am going to try that one next time. At the rate that I am using this spray, that will be very soon…

Mario Badescu facial spray | lookingjoligood.blog — I’ve had this 4 fl oz bottle for about 4 weeks.

Here is how I have been using it:
I mist onto my face, neck, or hair whenever I feel like I want to, haha.😉 It is like giving my skin a little pick-me-up either before I put my makeup on or, post-makeup application to reduce a powdery looking finish. I have been spraying my face either before or after (or both) applying my daily and nightly moisturizer. I’m telling you, I’m obsessed with this facial spray! Despite the fact that I have a small face and I could probably get away with only using two spritzes at a time, I love to really go at it and use 4 sprays at a time. 😂 I have been using it at least twice a day, sometimes as many as four times a day. Like I said, I’ve become pretty obsessed with this spray.

This spray is available in two versions and three sizes: Aloe Herbs, and Rosewater version and Aloe, Cucumber, and Green Tea version, and in 2, 4 and 8 fl oz bottles. The travel size 2 fl oz bottle is $5.00 USD, and a 4 fl oz bottle that I have now is $7.00 USD. Now that I know how much I love this product, next time I purchase it, I plan to pick up the 8 oz bottle which is $12.00 USD.

Here are the Aloe Herbs, and Rosewater spray ingredients:
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Rosa Canina Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Parfum (Fragrance), Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Citronellol, Geraniol, CI 17200 (Red 33), CI 42090 (Blue 1)

What does the Mario Badescu Website have to say about it:

Cult-favorite. Makeup artist must-have.
Revitalizes with dewy radiance.
Boosts moisture and glow.

Ideal for: All skin.

Revitalize skin with dewy radiance. Whether spritzed for a hydrating boost or mid-day pick-me-up, our cult-favorite facial spray helps revive dehydrated skin anytime, anywhere. It’s a rejuvenating mist infused with herbal and botanical extracts (like Aloe Vera, Gardenia, Rose, Bladderwrack, and Thyme) that help soothe and re-energize skin—giving it a healthy, radiant glow.

#MBSKINTIP: To give your makeup a dewy finish, spritz your favorite brush or sponge before blending in foundation or concealer. Once you’re done, mist your face as a final step to add radiance. For an extra refreshing and cooling boost, store the bottle in your refrigerator.

A refreshing, hydrating mist to use anywhere anytime. Simply formulated with fragrant herbal extracts and rosewater for a pleasant, pick me up for dehydrated, tight and uncomfortable skin. Spray your day and night creams for a boost of hydration or use it to set make-up or spray on dry hair throughout the day. Safe for all skin types. Gentle, non-irritating.”

What about you? Have you ever tried this Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs, and Rosewater? Was it love at first spray for you too? Have you tried the Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea version? If you try this spray, let me know what you think about it!

I would love for you to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all four.

Tips and Tricks

Tip Tuesday #65

May 16, 2017April 19, 2017 LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments

Here’s another tip for Tip Tuesday:

Always smooth in moisturizer in upward strokes. Pulling down on your skin can eventually lead to sagging. Gravity and time are already hard enough on us! Also, don’t forget to moisturize your neck and chest! The neck and chest area, if not properly taken care of, can be dead giveaways for your true age.

One of my favorite moisturizers is CeraVe Moisturizing cream. It has both ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Both help to draw and trap moisture into the skin.

Let me know if you try it out and what you think! If you are enjoying these tips every Tuesday you can check them all out by clicking HERE.

I would love for you to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

Beauty Subscription

Birchbox April 2017

April 26, 2017April 26, 2017 LauraJoli LookingJoliGood6 Comments

A few weeks ago I got a text message from my sister in law telling me about a great offer from Birchbox. They were giving away a Smashbox Photo Matte Eyes Travel Palette with a “new” sign up and promo code.

To be honest, I have subscribed to Birchbox in the past and didn’t love it. But I wanted the Smashbox palette, so I signed up right away and patiently waited for my box to arrive. (that’s a lie, I wasn’t patient at all…)

While each month my ipsy samples come inside a cute makeup bag, Birchbox samples are sent in a cute box. (How fitting since it is called a birchBOX.)

This month’s box has a brown paper bag look to it that says “Magic Inside” in black/deep brown script. The inside is a super cute pink and colorful floral design. While I do like getting the makeup bags, I do like the nice cute sturdy boxes that I have received from Birchbox. I have makeup stored in all the other boxes that I received way back when I used to get it every month.

Here is what I got in my April 2017 Birchbox:

If you follow me on Instagram you already saw a photo of what I got. If you don’t follow me on Instagram, you totally don’t know what you are missing. 🙃

amika Bombshell Blowout Spray

Smells great. I don’t tend to use these type of products due to the type of hair that I have. I haven’t tried it yet, and who even knows if I will try it out, it might be amazing, not really my thing though. I have a feeling that I will pass it along to someone else.

Coastal Scents Blush & Bronzer Palette

Am I just a huge baby when I get upset about these tiny little bronzer and blush samples? Is it just me that gets mad? I mean, come on! How in the world am I supposed to fit my brush in there? It’ll take me forever to get the product on my whole face. Maybe I will use it as an eyeshadow, I don’t know. I would have rather gotten either a bronzer or a blush, but two tiny ones is just pointless to me.

rms beauty™ the ultimate makeup remover wipes

Birchbox, Birchbox, Birchbox, let’s talk here for a second. Not only did you send me a tiny little blush and bronzer “palette” but you gave me three makeup wipes? No thanks!

I use coconut oil every night to remove my waterproof eye makeup. These wipes are infused with coconut oil. This should be a match made in heaven for me, right? Wrong!

They are supposed to be a quick “grab and go” wipe, but despite the fact that I use coconut oil to remove my makeup, I would never leave the oil on my face all night. I can only imagine what my pillow cases would look like in the morning!

These wipes cost $16 for 20 wipes. At that price, I am expecting something amazing! What did I get? Basically a rough paper towel with a film of coconut oil on it. The sheet was small and only somewhat oily enough to take off my face makeup, and definitely too dry to remove my waterproof eye makeup with any effectiveness. Yet despite it being too dry to remove my makeup, my hands were completely oily from the wipe.

It is a great idea, but it just didn’t work well enough at removing my eye makeup without tugging at my gentle eye area skin.

R+Co DEATH VALLEY Dry Shampoo

I feel bad that I am not more excited about getting this sample…So many people rave about how great this dry shampoo is, but I just don’t really use dry shampoo. It has a great clean manly scent. I would actually love this scent in a candle, and the packaging is super cute.

The Beauty Crop GRLPWR Liquid Lipstick Shade: Imma Bawse

If you have read many of my posts you already know that I love shiny glossy hydrating lip products. That being said, the odds were already stacked against this product. I am not a fan of liquid lipsticks at all! I don’t like anything that makes my lips feel dry.

While I found it to be VERY pigmented, it never actually dried down completely like liquid lipsticks usually do. Several hours later it was still transferring to my cup, my chin, my fingers. (not cute!) Overall it wore off mostly evenly but made such a mess that I would never feel confident wearing this lipstick out in public.

The color is actually gorgeous, but not one that I would personally wear. When my son saw me wearing it on my lips, he said “Mom! That lipstick! You are too pretty to wear that color of lipstick!” Then he closed his eyes and said he couldn’t look at me while I was wearing it. Lol, well, at least he is honest.

Also, anyone else feel as if the name of this lipstick is a complete rip off of the Smashbox liquid lipstick Bawse by Lilly Singh? I mean it is basically the same color and it is spelled exactly the same way. (BTW: She is absolutely gorgeous and hilarious.)

Speaking of Smashbox…The only reason that I resubscribed to this box…

Smashbox Photo Matte Eyes Travel Palette

I’ll be posting a complete review of this palette soon so I won’t go into the details about it here now…. You’ll have to come back in a few days to read about what I think about this palette.

Here is one thing that I really like about Birchbox…They send a card with descriptions of each sample as well as the prices of the full-size products.

Thanks, Birchbox, for the “free” palette, but sorry, because you sent me terrible samples, I already canceled my subscription… I definitely prefer more makeup samples and fewer hair and skin care samples.

What about you? Do you subscribe to Birchbox, what do you think about it? Have you gotten any decent samples? I would love to hear your opinion in the comments!

I would choose ipsy over Birchbox any day! I feel like my ipsy bags just keep getting better every month. At the same price point, Birchbox just didn’t match up. If you want to read posts about my previous ipsy bags you can do so by clicking HERE.

If you want to try out ipsy click HERE to use my referral link!

I would love for you to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all four.

Looking Joli Good

Kindness is beautiful!

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