BellaSugar

Back to Basics: The Best Zit Zappers

BellaSugar — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 07:00:24 -0700

I've never been one to have consistently gorgeous, glowy skin. It's always either a little bit dry, kind-of blotchy and almost always oily on the nose. Oh, and around that time of the month, you can bank on being able to play a fierce game of connect-the-dots. Having been a connoisseur of spot treatments since puberty, these are three of my go-to products that help pacify my pimples without causing dry patches or added aggravation. Which is your all-time favorite topical zit zapper?

Clearasil Tinted Acne Treatment Cream ($5.79) can be found at most drugstores. It doesn't sting or make you teary-eyed from the strong scent when you have to apply it to your face. The best part about using the tinted version is that it really helps cover up the red without having to pile on potentially bacteria-infested concealer.

Origins Spot Remover ($10) is a minty-smelling, transparent spot treatment gel that contains salicylic acid to dry out sebum and help kill old and new bacteria. It tingles just a touch upon contact, but it's nothing you can't handle. It stays clear and won't dry to an embarrassing flaky finish. Also, the tiny bottle is sure to last you through all twelve bouts of PMS per year, since all you need is a super-small amount.

For one more tried-and-true spot treatment that's slightly pricier, read more.

YonKa Juvenil Purifying Concentrate for Problem Skin ($37.95) is the product I use when my skin is red and irritated all over. I use it if I have excessive swelling and sensitivity since it's so calming and gentle. It contains five essential oils that ward off bacteria, heal, sooth and restore your skin to a calm and balanced state. Also, it has a heavenly botanical smell and doesn't sting in the slightest.

Oh Man: His and Hers Beauty Products

BellaSugar — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 10:05:24 -0700

So now that you are officially Mr. and Mrs, that probably means that you are living together for the first time (wink, wink). Okay, so even if you were living in sin, you're now sharing everything-including the small amount of space in the bathroom (remember the 50/50 rule, gals)! So although he may not understand the extent to which you primp, a great way to save some room on your side of the medicine cabinet is to fill up his side with products you love, too. Check out a few of my personal favorite products that work for both men and women.

This nail polish called Essie Cosmetics Man-e-Cure ($16) is a clear matte polish that looks extremely natural. Guys don't want to look like they've put much effort into their appearance, but oftentimes they do care about looking well groomed, neat and professional.

For two more products for the newlyweds to share read more

Clearasil Tinted Acne Treatment Cream ($5.79) may not be as fancy as some of your other more girly spot treatments but it's a great product that works on blemishes, whiteheads and oily areas.

The color is tinted ever so slightly, which I've learned that guys love because it blends right into the color of your skin and it acts doubly as a concealer to diminish the look of red marks.

Alterna Hemp Seed Sheer Pomade ($16.75) is another great product for the both of you. And as long as it doesn't smell too perfumey or floral, your guy will go for it. This particular pomade is lightweight and is great for smoothing, texturizing and providing 'touchable' results-nothing too sticky or firm.

Actually, anything like a pomade or a hair wax will also do the trick. And don't forget that there are a slew of other products out there guys will be happy to share with you too such as lip balm, body wash and SPF. Enjoy!

Bella Brand: Aveda Outer Peace

BellaSugar — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 13:00:50 -0800

Launched earlier this year, Aveda's latest skin care collection is called Outer Peace. This four-step skin care line uses modern Ayurvedic botanicals to achieve balanced, clear skin. Some key ingredients in these products include salicylic acid, the anti-irritant saw palmetto, ambla (a popular Ayurvedic berry that helps heal) and a blend of organic essential oils such as lemon, tea tree and rose geranium.

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For a detailed list of each of the products and their prices, read more

STEP 1: Outer Peace Foaming Cleanser ($24) is a mild cleanser. Use morning and night.
STEP 2: Outer Peace Anti Blemish Relief Pads ($30) are gentle exfoliating pads. Think of them like a grown-up version of Clearasil pads. While they similarly provide a post-cleansing punch to blackheads, they don't sting. Plus, they smell slightly woodsy and fresh.
STEP 3: Outer Peace Spot Relief ($28) is a spot treatment that can be dabbed on pimples.
STEP 4: Outer Peace Anti Blemish Relief Lotion ($38) is a lightweight lotion that helps to clear blemishes, control oil and minimize the appearance of pores.