Classic Cleansers from Clarins & Origins

I thought I had sworn off gel cleansers until these two cleansers came along...

I've been obsessed with cleansing oils, but these two cleansers from Clarins and Origins made me realize that I still enjoy a more "standard" cleanser for a fast and easy cleanse. 

Especially since some of my cleanser loves are quite pricey or just require a bit of effort, these two cleansers from Clarins and Origins certainly make my morning routine easy and much more affordable. Both come in at under $25 and leave my skin feeling clean and not dry,

I was particularly surprised by how well I got on with Origins Zero Oil Deep Pore Cleanser, which I picked out for Mr. Bunny last summer. I thought I would never get along with a gel cleanser marketed toward oily skintypes, but my dehydrated skin feels perfectly normal using this stuff. Plus, it has a light minty scent that is quite refreshing in the mornings!  

And when the Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser landed on my doorstep in a beauty swap of sorts, I was quite puzzled. How could a foaming cleanser be for dry and sensitive skin? In any event, this cream textured cleanser lathers a bit and feels just perfect for wintertime! 

What cleansers have you been using lately? I'd love to know! :) 

Winter Skin Saviors: Lush Celestial Moisturizer

I haven't explored much of Lush's skincare range, but one of my favorite things is their Celestial Facial Moisturizer. Much loved by my friends Marianna and Gummy, I was excited to finally try it these last few months. 

*PR Sample

Scented of almonds and vanilla, this cream has a lovely texture. I find it to be thick, yet somehow light when it is applied to the skin. Intended for extremely dry or sensitive skin, Celestial is very moisturizing. I found it to be just a smidgen less moisturizing than my Dr. Ci:Labo moisturizer in these extremely cold temperatures we've been having, but in the fall I found them equally as moisturizing. I'm not sure anything can beat this cold, so I'm not worried! I also really like how this layers well with face oils. 

All in all, I'm a fan of this affordable moisturizer from Lush. Have you tried it? I'd love to know! :)

Overnight Hydration Masks

I'm definitely a girl that needs a healthy dose of hydration, especially this time of year, so I thought I'd show you my picks for overnight hydration masks.

Rodial Dragon's Blood Hyaluronic Mask, $48 for 1.7oz
I received this as a belated birthday gift last summer, and I've just been in love with it. My super dehydrated skin really soaks it in, and my skin feels soft and hydrated in the morning. I love the bright cheerful packaging and the light fruity scent. And for those of you that are wondering, Dragon's Blood is a resin from a plant and not the blood of dragons. (LOL) 

Boscia Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask, $34 for 2.8oz
I purchased this in early January solely because the packaging drew me in! It is white and has a creamy texture (unlike the Rodial, which is a clear gel) and has a light floral scent. My friend Marianna finds the scent to be strong, but I find it to be quite fresh and not at all strong. 

I like both of these masks equally, though I do have to note that the Boscia is more affordable and you get more for your money too. So far, these have been my favorite hydration masks I've tried, and I think they are suitable for very dehydrated skin.

Compared to the ever popular Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask, these work significantly better for me. The Origins mask felt nice while it was on, but it really had no lasting effect on my skin. I quite liked the Korres Greek Yoghurt Sleeping Facial for a bit last summer, but I found that I did not care for the scent (if I was awake) and liked the results from the Rodial mask better.

Have you been using any hydrating masks lately? What is your favorite hydration mask? I'd love to know!

Reveal Brighter Skin with Goldfaden MD Fresh a Peel!

In December, I met the lovely Lauren from Goldfaden MD and she told me about this lovely new release from the brand, which has just launched on their site and Space NK.  As someone who didn't love the Ren Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask, I was thrilled to be able to try a new alternative.  

*PR Sample, Affiliate Link

From Space NK: 
Extended upon Dr. Goldfaden’s view on the importance of exfoliation, Fresh A Peel is a nonirritating, one-step, fruit enzyme and lactic acid peel that rivals in-office peels. Developed specifically for the customer who prefers a non-physical exfoliator and can be used even the most sensitive skin - no redness or irritation.

Put a fresh face forward with Dr. Goldfaden’s supercharged lactic acid and multi-fruit enzyme exfoliating peel. The unique combination of ingredients provides a superior rate of skin rejuvenation while reducing the appearance of fine lines, pores and skin imperfections. With continued use, skin becomes softer, smoother, firmer and more radiant.

That sounds good, doesn't it? Goldfaden MD is a line formulated around results, and I have to say that I am seeing them. I really found the pigmentation around my nose and mouth to be more even after just one or two uses, which I think is impressive.

I love that this lightly scented clear gel is just that - compared to the Ren mask, I think the scent and look of it is totally not intrusive. It tingles on the skin, and I love being able to wash it off in a few minutes. It is just perfect for those times when I don't have the time or energy to wait around and wash off a mask! 

I've been using this about once a week for about a month now, and I have not experienced any irritation or adverse reactions. It doesn't feel drying or anything either, so that makes me happy. I am totally a fan, especially since it seems to even out my skintone! Fresh a Peel is currently available at Goldfaden MD and Space NK. 

What do you think about Goldfaden MD's new Fresh a Peel? Do you have a favorite enzyme mask I should try? I'd love to know! :)