Before I burst your bubble making you think perfect skin is just a secret away, it’s important to know that while there are so many cutting-edge skin care products and natural ingredients out there, not one thing works for every person. But with time and consistency with home remedies, you can achieve the skin you’ll be proud of. Read on for 6 ways to get glowing skin with very little effort.

1. Aim for Drinking at Least 91 Ounces of Water a Day

I get it: You’re probably tired of hearing about this one. But if you’re looking for a no-fail home remedy for glowing skin, then this is it. Water is the easiest and most essential, so of course, it’s first on my list.

Did you know your skin is an organ? And the largest one at that. Drinking enough water is vital to healthy, glowing, and clear skin.

According to the Mayo Clinic, women should be drinking around 11 1/2 cups a day. Drinking water helps your body flush out toxins which, in turn, improves your complexion for a healthy natural glow.

I personally have found keeping a pitcher of water in the fridge helps me drink more because I love cold water. Sometimes I’ll even add a little freshly squeezed lemon juice.

There are several tips you can do to “trick” yourself into drinking enough water. Whether that’s setting reminders on your phone, having a water bottle that tracks your intake, infusing water with herbs and fruit, carrying around a gallon water bottle, or adding Pique electrolyte packets to keep your water from tasting boring (while also providing you with extra benefits).

There are 16 cups in a gallon of water so if you want to go above and above, keep a gallon of cold water in your fridge, and every time you need to refill your water bottle, refill it from there. Experiment until you find a system that makes you want to drink a lot of water. That’s all that matters!

The Hype: 4.9/5 “Definitely recommend this one to you if you’re looking for a cute, useful, and quality drink dispenser. Even if you’re not going to have people over for a while, it’s still so much fun to use on your own or with your family!”

2. Fill Your Body With Superfoods

After staying hydrated, having a healthy diet is the second most important thing. Your diet controls so much of your life, beauty, and health. We already know all the benefits of water but what about the benefits of what we fuel our bodies with?

The best way to ensure you will have glowing skin is to eat a wide variety of superfoods. Superfoods are foods that have very high nutritional density. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some examples include berries, leafy greens, salmon, green tea, beets, dark chocolate (it also has anti-inflammatory properties), and spirulina, just to name a few.

Eating superfoods will help neutralize the free radicals in our bodies. Claudia Fajardo-Lira, Ph.D. and Professor of Food Science and Nutrition at California State University-Northridge, states that free radicals are substances that occur naturally in our bodies but attack the fats, protein, and the DNA in our cells, which can cause different types of diseases and accelerate the aging process.

That sentence alone has me wanting to stick with more natural ingredients! Superfoods will help neutralize free radicals that can be found in cigarette smoke, air pollution, fried food, and some processed meats.

So what can you eat? In addition to the superfoods I briefly mentioned above, you will want to eat foods with healthy fats and fatty acids. My absolute favorite healthy fat is avocado. You can do so much with it and it just tastes so good.

You can serve it with eggs, toast, tacos, BLT and of course, make infamous guacamole. I sometimes sprinkle flaky sea salt on my avocados and just eat them as a snack. Other examples of healthy fats include eggs, nuts, chia seeds, full-fat yogurt, and extra virgin olive oil.

We still want you to live life and will having a hot dog every once in a while harm you? No, it will not, but those foods shouldn’t be the majority of your diet. Superfoods, healthy fats and fatty acids should be.

I think everyone should watch “The Game Changers” on Netflix. “The Game Changers” is about how our bodies are made for plant-based diets as well as a look into the journey of how we ended up where we are today. When I watched it, it really opened my eyes and made me aware of what I was eating and how our bodies process certain foods. 

And of course, we can’t talk about glowing skin without talking about Vitamin C. According to the Mayo Clinic, Vitamin C is a nutrient needed to form blood vessels, cartilage, muscle, and keep collagen production going.

Our bodies don’t produce Vitamin C so it has to come through our diet or in a supplement form. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, brussel sprouts, broccoli, and spinach. 

The great thing about eating healthy, besides getting all the essential nutrients your body needs to survive, is that it won’t take a long time to see results and you could potentially start seeing your glowing skin in as little as a week!

WebMD says a healthy diet is one way to optimize great blood flow and blood circulation. Not only will your skin look better but you will feel better.

The Hype: 4.3/5 “I’ve been taking these for almost 10 days now and my skin is GLOWING!”

Related: 13 Tips to a Healthy Lifestyle

3. Moisturize With Coconut Oil

There was a time when coconut oil was extremely popular and people were using it for literally everything. The hype has since worn down but it’s still a great moisturizer for some skin types.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, I would steer clear but if your skin type is drier, then game on! Coconut oil is great to apply all over your body when it’s still damp from the shower because it sits on top of your skin trapping all the moisture in.

There are a lot of questions if coconut oil and olive oil are interchangeable for helping with dry skin and the answer is no. A study done by the National Library of Medicine showed that over a four-week period, patients who moisturized with coconut oil had less dry skin than those who moisturized with olive oil. 

Olive oil has some great uses but being subbed for a lotion is not one of them. However, vitamin e and avocado oils are both great natural facial moisturizers with fatty acids that can fade scars and make your skin glow too.

They Hype: 4.6/5 “I am extremely PLEASED with my product! It has IMPROVED my face unbelievably!”

Related: I Live in Africa and These Are the Beauty Secrets We Swear By

4. Exfoliate Two to Three Times a Week

Exfoliation is essential for healthy-looking and glowing skin. Our skin is constantly forming new cells as the skin cells on our body are dying and exfoliating is a way we can speed that process along and help our body remove dead skin cells.

You can exfoliate in two ways: physical or chemical. For home remedy purposes, we are going to focus on physical exfoliation. Physical exfoliation is done through scrubs while chemical exfoliation use products that contain enzymes.

Thankfully, home exfoliation is easy. All you need are a few gentle ingredients- and some are already in your pantry! Add oatmeal and baking soda with a little honey to create a paste. You can apply it as a face mask and if you have visible dry flakes, then watch those dead cells and dull skin disappear. 

Or if you have a coarse salt at home, like Himalayan or sea salt, mix it with some coconut oil, honey, or olive oil to gently whisk away your dead skin cells.

As with all home remedies, it’s always a good idea to test out a small patch first to make sure you will not have an allergic reaction. And remember, although home remedies work, they do take time.

The Hype: 4.3/5 “Babyyyyyyyyy this stuff is Pure Gold! The scent, the feel the way it immediately moisturized my skin in the shower, I’m in love. Get this scrub! Your skin will thank you”

5. Apply Aloe Vera

Aloe vera to the rescue! Growing up I had an aloe vera plant in my backyard and it was one of the best things. I love to bake and cook, but sometimes I would burn myself. All I had to do was run outside and use the aloe vera to soothe my burn.

Along with kitchen burns, aloe vera can help soothe sunburns too. (While aloe vera can help soothe sunburns, it can’t prevent them so sunscreen is still a must to protect against the UV rays that cause skin cancer.)

Aloe vera has vitamins and antioxidants that are good for your skin. Not only can applying aloe vera on your skin help burns heal faster, hydrate your skin, and prevent the start of wrinkles and fine lines, but it naturally makes your skin glowy and supple.

The Hype: 4.6/5 “It absorbs easily and has a perfect consistency! The quality of the product truly reflects that it is organic, and sulfate, and paraben-free. I also like how it is Manuka honey infused with tea tree oil, both of which are natural and great for hydration. This aloe vera gel is definitely the best bang for your buck.”

6. Stick to Your Skincare Routine (While Also Adding Natural Ingredients)

“Consistency breeds success.” I heard that one time and it really changed my life. You will never see results if you are constantly starting and stopping something. Finding skincare products that work for you and your skin conditions are game changers and sticking to your skincare routine is what’s really going to get your results and your desired glowing skin.

Science has developed some cutting-edge ingredients and there are numerous products out there for every skin concern: dark spots, under-eye dark circles, redness, sun damage, you name it. But consider implementing natural ingredients into your skincare routine as well.

Rose water, rich in vitamin c, will help soothe and calm the skin. Rose water is made by steaming rose petals in water so this is something easily done at home. When making your rosewater elixir, you can also add essential oils like lavender to calm the skin and make it glow. However, if you just wanted to buy something, you can.

Sephora is great about giving out samples so you can try them before you spend the big bucks. Test all new products on small areas before slathering them all over your face. 

The Hype: 4.6/5 “I love this rose water, my skin looks radiant it is a bottle with magic water for the face…my face the spots faded and it is not needed buy expensive creams when we can obtain better benefits also smells very good. I recommend 100%”

Taking care of your skin and body will pay off for many years to come. You don’t always need every influencer’s beauty secrets to have glowing skin; there are many cost-effective ways to care for your skin at home that require very little time.

For even more tips on how to improve your skin with little time and effort, check out 5 Benefits of Facial Steaming and How It Can Give You Glowing Skin!

The post If You’re Looking for “Beauty Secrets”, Try These 6 No-Fail Home Remedies for Glowing Skin Instead appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can be caused by pregnancy, growth spurts, rapid weight gain, or even from building muscle in the gym. The sudden skin change causes the collagen and elastin (which holds your skin together) to tear. When your skin returns to its normal state (i.e stops growing), it is no longer supported by the same collagen and elastin. As your skin is healing from the tear, stretch marks are formed.

Stretch marks aren’t just caused by weight gain or weight loss either. In addition to the reasons mentioned above, there are medical conditions that cause stretch marks: Marfan syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome.

According to Penn Medicine, Marfan syndrome is an inherited disorder that affects connective tissues. People with Marfan syndrome often develop stretch marks because the tissue in their skin is weakened and the skin is not as elastic as it should be.

Cushing’s syndrome happens when you have an excess of the hormone cortisol. Though the American Association of Neurological Surgeons states this disease is rare, purple stretch marks, among other things, are symptoms of Cushing’s.

What Do the Colors of Your Stretch Marks Mean?

When stretch marks first appear they can be purple, pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown depending on your skin color. This is because there is a higher presence of blood vessels under the newly torn skin.

All of these colors just mean you have new stretch marks and this is the best time to start treating them. Over time, if not treated, they will fade to white mature stretch marks that slowly sink beneath the surface of the skin.

How To Make Purple Stretch Marks Fade

Here are some options you have to help make your purple stretch marks fade, from DIY to treatments done by a medical provider. Just remember, there are no quick-fix treatment options to permanently remove stretch marks and the AAD states that home treatments have very little effect on mature stretch marks. At best, you can help with the appearance of stretch marks with consistent treatment over time.

With that being said, here are the options you have!

1. Retinoid Creams

Retinol and Tretinoin are two types of retinoid creams that have been proven to make stretch marks less noticeable when applied early.

Retinol boosts the elastin and collagen production to help produce new skin. Retinols can take on the form of topical creams and can be purchased in many over-the-counter products while tretinoin is only available by prescription.

Using a type of retinoid cream (in the form of topical treatments) will be the best affordable “fix” you are going to find outside of laser therapy.

Hyaluronic acid, while not a retinoid, can help with appearances as well if applied as soon as you see a stretch mark forming. The moisture that hyaluronic acid offers can hydrate and plump your skin, potentially making a stretch mark less noticeable.

The Hype: 4.3/5 “This is definitely a body lotion that deserves more hype than it’s getting! I have only used this for a few days now and can honestly say it’s also outperforming high-end!”

2. Laser Treatments

ICON 1540 is the only FDA-approved laser treatment for the appearance of stretch marks. Studies done by the National Library of Medicine show at the week one follow-up, 38% of subjects showed 25-75% improvement in their stretch marks. And the six-week follow-up showed an even higher percentage of improvement.

The ICON 1540 can be performed on any skin tone with white or purple stretch marks. Patients will start seeing significant results from laser therapy at three months but can take up to six months to achieve maximum results.

Though this is a treatment that may actually work, it does come with its drawbacks. One treatment could cost you anywhere from $2,000-$3,800 with multiple sessions required.

Though laser treatments may not be for everyone, there are some home remedies that may potentially help prove the appearance.

3. Apply Self-Tanner

Lying in a tanning bed or outside in the sun will not help you get rid of your stretch marks. Not only can this be bad for your skin, but it will just make them more noticeable because stretch marks do not tan.

However, applying self-tanner does have the ability to blur imperfections. This remedy is just temporary, but it’s a quick and easy way to give yourself a self-esteem boost. Self-tanner is an excellent option to hide your stretch marks!

The Hype: 4.3/5 “This self-tanner is AMAZING! It works incredibly well, and FAST! Which is amazing because you are able to quickly see spots missed. It leaves a natural color and can be built up over a couple of days.”

Related: 6 Best Facial Treatments for Large Pores That Will Reduce Their Appearance

4. Keep Your Skin Soothed and Moisturized

Keeping your skin supple and moisturized can potentially help prevent stretch marks (though it’s genetics in the end) and improve the appearance of existing ones.

From improving stretch marks to fading hyperpigmentation left over from acne, there are some natural ingredients that are recommended again and again. These are cocoa butter, aloe vera, olive oil, vitamin e, and almond oil.

It’s best to massage the treatments onto your affected areas. This will help make sure the treatment will actually touch the stretch marks and it might make it more effective too. 

And of course, you need to be diligent in applying the products. You will never see results if you sporadically apply with no consistency. Even though results will take a while, you have more of a chance if you are consistently applying the treatment.

Though none of those are supported by any current research to get rid of stretch marks, they won’t harm you. Plus, they do have many other benefits for keeping your skin smooth, even, and glowy!

The Hype: 4.3/5 “This stuff is magic in a bottle, just try it!”

5. Exfoliate Your Skin

A chemical or physical exfoliation gives you benefits that will leave your skin smoother and softer over time. Plus, removing dry skin and dead skin cells can make your retinol products even more effective when applied.

To get a physical exfoliation, try dry brushing. And to chemically exfoliate, look for products with glycolic acid.

The Hype: 4.4/5 “This product has greatly improved the texture of my skin. Have been using it to improve even my skin tone on my arms and legs. It moisturizes very well.”

6. Apply Silicone Patches

Many dermatologists recommend silicone for the treatment of scars and stretch marks. And for an “apply and forget it approach”, consider using silicone patches. The National Library of Medicine states that a silicone patch can increase hydration and make marks softer and flatter.

If consistently applied for months, you may notice an improvement in new and old stretch marks.

The Hype: 4.3/5 “I bought these for old stretch marks. They do stay in place really well. I know they won’t completely erase the stretch marks but it does seem like they have lightened them overall.”

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), stretch marks are a type of scar and scars are permanent. You can do treatments that will fade them over time, but you will never fully get rid of them. And while nothing will fully remove your stretch marks, you can use these tips to help them fade.

And always remember, stretch marks are 100% normal. But if you are having a hard time accepting them, I would suggest contacting your dermatologist to see what options they have available for you.

Thankfully, there’s one treatment you can do for glowing skin that’s way easier than you think. You just need two things: heat and clean water. Up Next: 5 Benefits of Facial Steaming and How It Can Give You Glowing Skin

The post How To Make Purple Stretch Marks Fade appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

1. Helps Products Absorb Into the Skin

Product absorption is one of the most universally well-known benefits. Facial steaming causes your pores to open which then allows your skincare products to be better absorbed into your skin.

When skincare products are better absorbed, they become more effective. Steaming helps increase the penetration of active ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C. You will see the best results if these are applied immediately after steaming.

The Hype: 4.1/5 “This is one of those things you don’t know you need until you start using it. Now I steam at least 4-5 times a week and it has taken my skincare to the next level. I love this!”

2. Hydrates the Skin

Moisture and hydration are often thrown around together but they are actually quite different. Skin lacking moisture needs oil. Moisturizers and a good skincare routine can easily take care of this.

Skin lacking hydration needs water. Using a facial steamer is a great way to add water back to your face. All skin types (even oily skin!) need hydration. As an added bonus, your skin will look plump and have a nice glow to it. 

The Hype: 4.5/5 35k+ reviews “This Nano Steamer does exactly what it’s supposed to do! It’s almost like having a mini sauna at home.”

3. Helps Unclog Pores

Facial steaming loosens dead skin cells, bacteria, and other impurities that cause clogged pores. I believe steam is one of the best ways to prep your skin for blackhead removal. It’s gentle but very effective.

The steam will help soften your skin which will allow extractions to be much easier. Steaming your face will help bring pimples to the surface so you can extract them safely.

The Hype: 4.5/5 “You will be able to see significantly clearer and brighter skin the next day when you wake up. Definitely a 5 stars product.”

4. Helps With Circulation

The experts pretty much all agree that using a facial steamer will help with circulation. The steam helps open pores and increase perspiration. This in turn dilates your blood vessels which cause blood circulation.

The increased blood flow during a steam facial promotes collagen production and elastin production. This results in firmer, youthful-looking skin.

The Hype: 4.6/5 “I have been using this facial steamer every day since I purchased it (for a week) and I already notice a big difference in my facial complexion. I am very satisfied with this purchase and recommended it to anyone.”

5. It’s Fun!

Lastly, doing facial steaming at home is like having a spa experience. It allows you to unplug and unwind for a little bit. You can play soothing music, have some essential oils going in a diffuser, and just relax. You don’t even need to spend a ton of money on a fancy steamer if you don’t want to; there are plenty of DIY ways to achieve the same result.

The Hype: 4.6/5 “Never thought I needed a facial steamer and it has changed my skincare routine. Every woman needs one to have a spa day at home.”

How To Steam Your Face

All methods, whether they are DIY or not, will start with dry and clean skin. One DIY method is to get a clean towel wet with hot (but not too hot) water and lay the hot towel over your face until it turns cold. A good rule to go by is if your towel is too hot to touch then it’s too hot for your face.

Another DIY method is to fill a bowl with moderately hot water and stick your face over it. You will want to cover your whole head with a clean towel so none of the steam escapes. Make sure your face is not too close to the hot steam so you don’t get burned.

If you decide to go the route of a facial steamer machine, then here are a few tips to keep in mind:

When filling your steamer, you will want to use warm (not hot) water. While some people may prefer distilled water over tap water, there is no data supporting that one is better than the other.

Steaming for too long can cause some serious burns. A good rule of thumb is to start with ten minutes for your first time. How do you feel? How does your face look? If you feel great, stick with the 10 minutes.

If you are noticing irritation or feel overly hot, then I would cut back on your time. When steaming, evaluate what is a safe distance for you where you can still feel the steam but are not getting burned.

As far as frequency, you can usually steam about two to three times a week. If you have dry skin, I would recommend starting one to two times a week.

While these five benefits can make a big impact on the quality of your skin, unfortunately, not every skin type should be using a face steamer.

If you are prone to redness or have rosacea, I would not recommend steaming as the steam will just bring more redness to your face-which is the exact opposite effect you want. Proceed with caution if you have super sensitive skin. The steam could cause inflammatory skin conditions to flare up.

There are just so many facial steamer benefits and it allows me to create my own home facial. Needless to say, facial steaming was a great addition to my skincare routine.

Now that you know how to make your skin glow via facial steaming, you may be wondering what to do with your brows to get your best look. Check out Threading vs Waxing Eyebrows-I’ve Done Both and This Is What I Like Better!

The post 5 Benefits of Facial Steaming and How It Can Give You Glowing Skin appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

And though pores are a part of our body, it’s only natural if you want to reduce their large appearance. To know the best treatment and best facial for large pores, first, it’s helpful to know what pores are.

What Are Pores?

A pore is the opening of a hair follicle. The sebaceous glands produce sebum which is a lubricating oil within the hair follicles. Sebum is important because it protects and moisturizes the skin.

What Causes Pores To Get Enlarged?

Pores are normal to have, but they can get enlarged when they are filled with dirt, debris, oil, and dead skin cells. Your pores also become enlarged when excess sebum is produced and they lose their structural support.

Collagen is that structural support and she kinda runs the show around here. If collagen is slacking, we are all feeling it. Collagen loss happens from natural aging and sun damage.

You can get collagen through foods like fish and broth, but most people are not getting enough in their daily diet. To supplement, you can try out the cult-favorite collagen powder by Vital Proteins.

The Hype: 4.6/5 177k+ reviews

So now that we know parts of social media aren’t real and we all have pores, how can we make our larger pores less visible?

1. Use Sunscreen

Sun damage leads to the wearing down of collagen, which will make your pores look bigger. This is not good news, because you basically need the collagen production line working nonstop.

Though it’s not so much a facial treatment as it is facial care, be proactive in wearing sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy outside. If you plan to spend a large amount of time in the sun, such as on vacation, take extra precautions such as wearing a hat when you lay out.

Colorscience says, “Without the use of sunscreen, unstable molecules known as free radicals penetrate deep into your cells and damage their ability to repair themselves.”

2. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are great for helping to reduce pore size when dirt and debris are the causes. Peels can promote cell turnover and remove the debris, dead skin cells, and blackheads that make you have the appearance of large pores.

The nice thing about chemical peels is you don’t need to have a professional do them. Many different beauty brands offer their own products that are actually very effective.

Since so many different skincare brands offer chemical peels, you are able to customize the acid and strength for your skin. 

For an effective peel, you want to look for peels that have the active ingredients of beta hydroxy acid and alpha hydroxy acids.

Glycolic acid is typically great for people with dry skin and salicylic acid peels are perfect for those who have acne-prone skin.

Other great ingredients to look for are lactic acid and hyaluronic acid. At-home chemical peels are some of the best ways to get treatments done for cheaper than you would pay in-office.

The Hype: 4.6/5, 92% would recommend, less than $10!

3. Microneedling

Microneedling is a medical cosmetic treatment that uses fine needles to puncture the skin, causing a controlled injury. This “injury” then tells your skin to produce more collagen to heal itself. The end result is a clearer complexion.

In addition to helping reduce the appearance of large pores, microneedling can also help with skin concerns such as acne scars, fine lines, and dark spots.

This is one area I would advise to never DIY. Save this one for the professionals and in the meantime, treat your skin with an alpha beta peel.

The Hype: 4.5/5 “This product is literally insane. You always spend money and time trying out different products that end in disappointment but this one is different. After two uses my skin is changed for the better. Clear and glowy. I literally can’t believe it.”

Related: 11 Beauty Products We’re Simply Obsessed With at MCO

4. Laser Treatments

There are a ton of different laser treatments that will help reduce the size of your pores. Certain treatments have varying lengths of recovery time, so keep that in mind. These treatments are usually not one and done, so be prepared to go into the office a couple of times to get full results.

Since this has the potential to alter your face, I would strongly encourage you to do your research and find a great laser-trained esthetician, nurse, or surgeon (depending on the severity of the laser) to work with.

For a more affordable approach you can do at home, LED light masks are very popular these days. LED light masks are full face masks that light up and target certain skin concerns.

These masks are a nice extra for your skincare routine but at the same time, they don’t have the same strength as lasers. On the plus side, they don’t have the recovery time that lasers require either. 

The Hype: 4.4/5 “This mask has absolutely saved my life! I’m not kidding. I was on the edge of insanity and battling major depression because of my face. I’ve had a skin condition for 6 years that multiple doctors have been unable to diagnose. Huge open sores that weep and won’t heal. But literally IN JUST 5 DAYS THIS MASK HEALED IT ALL, WITH NO NEW SPOTS AND THE SKIN AROUND IT FELT SOFT AND SUPPLE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 6 YEARS!!!!”

5. Don’t Skip Your Skincare Routine

Though everyone should have a consistent skincare routine, this tip is more for my oily skin girls. I’m sure in the summer you always seem to have a bunch of excess oil on your face. My skin type is combination-oily so I’m right there with you. Sometimes I wonder if I should go into oil production.

We need to be extra diligent about washing and moisturizing our faces. The last thing we need is to lose our structural support. We don’t need to give our pores any reason to become larger.

The Hype: 4.6/5 97% would recommend.

6. Use a Retinol (And Then Throw Away Your Magnifying Mirror)

Dermatologists recommend a retinol cream for optimal skin clarity in general, but it can also do wonders for your pore size. Retinol cream increases cell turnover, acting as an exfoliation for your skin that will leave pores smoother and smaller over time.

The Hype: 4.8/5. 99% would recommend

Okay, once you’ve got the right facial treatment and product to try out, it’s time to get rid of your magnifying mirror. I believe these mirrors, along with social media, have the power to make you feel bad about yourself. With the exception of your partner, no one is standing that close to you and looking at your face. I don’t believe you should be either.

Unlike the social media filters, these mirrors just show you every single flaw. You can only improve the appearance of your pores. You can never get rid of them.

Every single human has the appearance of pores and looking at them up close in a mirror is not going to bring productive thoughts.

With the right products and treatments, improving the appearance of large pores can happen. Use these 6 tips to get you started.

And if you’re struggling with damaged hair, then we have 5 more ideas that will help you undo that damage!

Up Next: Is Your Hair Damaged? Here Are 5 Ways To Get It Back on Track and Healthy Again

The post 6 Best Facial Treatments for Large Pores That Will Reduce Their Appearance appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

When I moved from my hometown to a bigger city, the first thing I did was find an eyebrow stylist. She did a great job and I stuck with her for years. One day I went to get them done and her whole shop was gone. Gone, like it never existed. Vanished into thin air. I was shocked.

Who was going to do my brows? Would I ever find someone as good as her?

Fast forward, I was sharing my experience with my friend and she suggested I go to her eyebrow lady. The only kicker was that her lady threaded eyebrows instead of waxing them, and waxing is all I’d ever known.

But I made my first threading appointment and after that one appointment, I instantly knew which one I preferred. Read on to discover the differences between threading and waxing eyebrows to see which one is right for you- and the one that I prefer after trying both.

WAXING

First off, what is eyebrow waxing?

Waxing is one of the most popular methods for hair removal. Waxing is very mainstream, so mainstream, in fact, some people even wax their own eyebrows. You literally can get any part of your body waxed.

It’s the process of using melted warm wax, never hot wax, to adhere to the eyebrow hairs and strip them out very quickly, along with all their roots.

Basically, your brow artist will put warm wax on a small wooden spatula and apply it to your eyebrow in the direction of hair growth.

They will place a paper strip on your eyebrow, smooth it out, and pull in the opposite direction of hair growth to remove your hair.

There are two different types of wax: hard wax and soft wax. Hard wax is often considered less painful and doesn’t use strips to have the wax removed.

Soft wax does use paper strips and it adheres well to micro tiny hairs and fine hairs. You will usually experience soft wax in salons.

While waxing can be less painful than threading, there are some downsides. Waxing might cause redness to your skin, possible allergic reactions, and breakouts on sensitive skin types.

Also, waxing would not be the best option for people who just had chemical peels or retinal treatments done. 

Related: 11 Beauty Products We’re Simply Obsessed With at MCO

THREADING

First off, what is threading?

Threading is an ancient hair removal technique that originated in the Middle East and Asia. They have been using this hair removal method for centuries and though threading is not as common in America, it’s still an excellent option.

Eyebrow threading uses a clean piece of thread to remove eyebrow hairs. The process uses two fingers to separate the hairs and then uses the clean thread to trap the individual hairs and pull them out from the hair follicles.

My Experience With Threading Vs Waxing Eyebrows

After my first threading appointment, I soon realized I would never be getting my eyebrows waxed again.

What officially converted me from waxing is when I saw how threading gave my brow such a precise shape.

The more I looked at my brows and thought about threading, the more I realized I should have been threading all along.

I like thick brows and while I got good results from waxing, threading really shapes the brow in a way waxing cannot. At this point, I’m just cleaning up my eyebrows when I go in for my appointment.

Using a thread allows you to remove the tiniest hairs, stray hairs, or even just a single hair without taking other hairs with it.

With threading, you are able to get such an exact finish. I have found that threading takes less time than waxing too.

And since there are no chemicals, this is a good option for all skin types – especially delicate skin. It’s rare to have side effects with threading.

Sure, threading can be more painful but there is no residual pain and I have found no redness either.

A downside to threading is that while you can wax your own eyebrows, you can’t thread your own brows. 

And since threading is done with a piece of thread it is not recommended you use this technique anywhere else but your face.

Both waxing and threading have pros and cons and can yield fantastic results when done by a professional. Threading is my personal preference, but now that you have an overview of each, the final decision all comes down to your personal choice!

Having groomed brows is just one makeup-free way you can transform the shape of your face and how you feel about yourself.

For other ways to look prettier without makeup, check out How To Make Yourself Prettier Without Makeup : 6 Transformative Ways That Are Easier Than You Think!

The post Threading vs Waxing Eyebrows-I’ve Done Both and This Is What I Like Better appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

I grew up in a city called Blantyre, and I was raised in a middle-class family. I have three siblings- a sister and two brothers.

When I was little, I loved getting my hair braided by my late aunt (picking the colorful beads was my favorite part!). And when I would visit my grandmother’s house, I liked following her into her garden to see what natural beauty ingredients she was going to use.

Fast forward to 2022, and I am still influenced by the beauty routines I witnessed when I was four. If you are curious about some of the beauty secrets I swear by, keep scrolling.

But before you learn about the beauty secrets, here are some facts about Malawi:

1. Main language: Chichewa
2. Formerly called: Nyasa Land (named by David Livingstone, a British Physician)
3. Former British Colony: 1891- July 6, 1964
4. Geological facts: Mulanje Mountain is the highest peak in Southern Africa. Lake Malawi is the sixth deepest lake in the world.
5. Ten major tribes: Chewa, Nyanja, Lomwe, Yao, Tumbuka, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, and the Lambya/Nyiha. (I am half Lomwe and Tumbuka).

Our Traditional Beauty Ingredients That Transform Our Skin

1. Nsansi – Castor Oil

Every beauty enthusiast is aware of castor oil. However, in Malawi, we call it “nsansi”. This vegetable oil was used in the early 1900s as a natural moisturizer by my great-grandmother and grandmother. Using this was the only way they could keep their skin hydrated because the country had no access to factory-made lotions.

To extract the castor oil, my grandmother would pick the seeds and crush them in a mphika (a clay pot). It was later on boiled to preserve the oil.

Since the fatty acids found in nsansi act as humectants, they helped to retain moisture by stopping water loss. This was essential to villagers as they were prone to dry skin due to long hours in the sun.

Castor oil was also slathered in their natural hair to make it soft and manageable!

2. Mdlomo – Soapy Plants

Bar soaps, shampoos, and shower gels did not exist in Malawi before the British arrived. My grandparents grew up using mdlomo (soapy plants) to bathe. They picked the leaves and crushed them into a paste. When the paste was put in water, it turned into a foamy solution.

The soap was perfect for delicate skin as it was non-irritating. Plus, it left their skin moisturized because it had non-drying properties.

3. Nthedza – Groundnuts

My grandmother always gets compliments from strangers about how soft and supple her skin looks – and the reason behind this is that she eats a lot of groundnuts.

Groundnuts are a staple in my family for anti-aging purposes. As some of you might know, most skin care brands use groundnuts in their anti-aging products. They are rich in Vitamin C, so it helps to keep the skin young by maintaining its elasticity. And, thanks to Vitamin E, fine lines and wrinkles are treated.

Some people use groundnuts in face masks; however, in Malawi, we eat them (but it is partially cooked before we snack on them). My grandmother grinds the groundnuts and puts them on Makala (charcoal) at low heat until they turn gold.

4. Bwemba – Tamarind

The Tamarind fruit grows in India, but it is also found in Africa.

My mom ate it a lot when growing up and still does. I, on the other hand, was not a fan of this fruit when I was little. I preferred candy over fruits but as I grew up, I started to prefer it over sugary treats.

The sweet and sour taste is delicious, and I love that it has so many health benefits for the skin. It is great if you want to prevent the formation of free radicals and dark-spot-free skin.

5. Malambe – Baobab

When my grandmother was growing up, she suffered from acne. So her way of dealing with it was with the oil from Baobab seeds. The oil contains anti-inflammatory ingredients like linoleic acid and omega 3-fatty acids that help with swelling and irritation.

She also uses it as an anti-aging ingredient. Because it has antioxidants, the baobab oil helps to preserve her collagen. It helps to keep her skin strong and glowy.

6. Masuku – Sugar Plum

We have a masuku tree (sugar plum tree) at our house, and my mother picks the fruit and makes juice. I am not a fan of the fruit because it’s very sweet and watery – but it has a lot of health benefits for younger-looking skin.

It is rich in vitamin C, which helps to improve the appearance of dull skin. Also, the fruit comes with Vitamin E and this helps to shield the skin from sun damage. Vitamin E also fights off free radicals to boost cell growth.

7. Siponji – Natural Sponge

Even though loofahs from the stores now exist in Malawi, my family prefers to use natural sponges to exfoliate. They are also popular around the country. It is impossible not to see vendors selling them in town.

I love that they are affordable, durable, and leave the skin very smooth.

8. Magalagadeya – Granadilla

Granadilla is more than a quick snack to have on a hot afternoon. It is great for minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. This strikingly beautiful fruit contains Vitamin C and A which are perfect for retaining moisture to make the skin look youthful.

My grandmother has two granadilla trees in her garden. When they are in season she eats them during tea time.

9. Chinagwa — Casava

Casava skin is often used in my family as a disposable face towel because the peels act as a good face exfoliator.

When I gently rub it on my face for a few minutes, my textured skin improves. Plus, my pores get unclogged.

The Western Skincare Products We Like

When Malawi became a British colony and Indian business people settled in the country, western products like lotions and soaps started to pour in. This included:

Hamam Soap

Hamama soap is an all-time favorite product for my grandmother. It is packed with natural ingredients like aloe vera, neem, and tulsi which help to effectively remove skin impurities.

Ponds Facial Creams

In Malawi, women love Ponds, especially the Mattifying Day Cream. It became popular in the 80s and is still used today. This highly-loved product is used to give the face a smooth, matte finish.

The beauty secrets Malawians swear by are easy and organic ingredients that you will love adding to your beauty routine.

To elevate your beauty regimen even more, check out these five anti-aging products.

Up next: 5 Best Anti-Aging Skincare Products to Restore Your Youthful Glow

The post I Live in Africa and These Are the Beauty Secrets We Swear By appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

1. Radiate Confidence

Some of you just sighed in disappointment and dropped your shoulders a little as you read that word. You clicked on this article looking for things to buy and here comes that ten-letter word again. I get it.

I remember one time very clearly when I was in a bathroom asking my sister a question about being pretty and she told me I only needed one thing. As she was hyping this thing up I was getting more and more excited. All my problems were about to be solved (hahaha).

Mentally, I was rearranging my budget to buy this product even though I had no idea what it was or how much it cost. Finally, I asked, “What is it?!?!”

With a smile on her face, she said, “Confidence.” Just imagine my disappointment.

So, I reallllly understand if you feel deflated. The older I get the more I realize how true it is though. People, in general, are attracted to confidence.

Along with confidence, having a happy demeanor makes you more attractive as well. A woman walking around with a smile on her face is more attractive than a woman walking around with a permanent frown. Also, happier people are just more fun to be around.

2. Invest in Quality Skincare

In my personal opinion, the better your skin the less makeup you need (or even want). Figure out your skin type and invest in quality products. Price doesn’t always equal quality but more times than not, you get what you pay for. Especially in skincare.

Good skincare costs money. YouTube is a great resource full of beauty influencers with your skin type and great tips on how to manage it. Dry skin? Oily skin? Combination? Sensitive skin? They have tested a bunch of skincare products so they will have tried and true favorites.

Engaging with the proper skincare routine will even help you reduce the appearance of under-eye dark circles and dark spots, something I’m sure you’ve used makeup to cover up in the past.

I love my daily beauty routine of applying my skincare at night. It’s a way to help me wind down for the day and get ready for bed. Even just starting off with simply washing your face and applying moisturizer on a daily basis will add to your natural, glowing beauty.

You will see results if you take good care of your skin and are diligent with your skincare routine. I promise. 

3. Take the Time to Do Your Hair

This is another area that might seem small but makes a big difference. Never underestimate how doing your hair can make you look good.

Think about watching someone do a presentation at work. They have on a killer outfit, with a smile a mile wide, and their face has a healthy glow from their morning moisturizer.

And then your eyes come to a screeching halt when you get to the hair. It’s in a haphazard ponytail with loose ends sticking out everywhere, looking like they just rolled out of bed and forgot to do it. Probably not the best look.

On the flip side, imagine that same scenario, and instead of a messy ponytail (and not in a cute way), their hair is nicely done. You honestly probably didn’t even notice they weren’t wearing makeup. This example just shows the power of how paying attention to your overall look is a great way to make yourself look prettier without makeup.

Again, YouTube is a great resource for watching people with similar hair textures and patterns style their hair. Also, never underestimate the power of a pretty headband.

4. Put together a Nice Outfit

When getting dressed and putting on an outfit that makes you feel good, you are more likely to do your hair and maybe apply some moisturizer. It’s all a domino effect at the end of the day (or morning I should say).

We all have certain outfits that we feel like a million dollars in. Our confidence is the highest in these outfits and we want as many people to see us as possible. Just me? Okay. I challenge you to identify what makes those clothes so special and curate a wardrobe full of clothes just like that. Imagine wearing a look every day that makes you want to kill it.

Related: 8 Easy Outfit Combinations You Already Have in Your Wardrobe

5. Don’t Underestimate Mascara, Lip Gloss, and Accessories

I know the title says no makeup but hear me out-I don’t even consider mascara and lip gloss makeup as much as I consider them necessities.

If there is one thing you have time for, that’s applying mascara and lip gloss. To be honest, sometimes (a lot of the time) this is my whole makeup routine.

Both can be applied while waiting for your coffee to brew or sitting at red lights. Lip gloss or lip balm can literally be applied as you are walking into work.

Applying mascara and lip gloss makes it look like you put in effort when in reality you spent less than one minute.

When it comes to accessories, having a simple necklace around your neck is a great way to upgrade any outfit. Bracelets and simple rings are another great way to elevate an outfit. Bonus points if you pick accessories that complement your skin tone (silver for cool-toned skin and gold for warm).

These small steps are an easy way to add appeal to your look.

6. Cultivate a Healthy Lifestyle

I’m not going to talk too much about having a healthy diet on here because I believe if you have a healthy lifestyle then the diet naturally follows. The one thing I will say is, in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables being good for your body, they are also helping your skin look good.

I would include drinking water in this category as well. Did you know we as females are supposed to be drinking about 11 1/2 cups of water every single day? Are you drinking enough water?

Drinking water has amazing benefits for your skin. It helps with the appearance of fine lines, contributes to clear skin, is good for your immune system, and quenches your thirst on a hot day.

It’s always a good thing to get your body moving every day too. Go for a walk on your lunch break, take your dog for a walk, or go for a walk yourself around the block after work. You can squeeze physical activity in anywhere – parking farther away from the store and taking the steps instead of the elevator are just two examples.

Lastly, they don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing. Not only does your body get a chance to recover but so does your skin while you are getting a good night’s sleep.

I would say after confidence having a healthy lifestyle is the most important thing. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is great for the entire body. It leads to better health, healthy skin, and being comfortable in your own skin. Having a healthy lifestyle, getting adequate water and enough sleep just lets all your natural beauty shine through.

Related: 13 Tips to a Healthy Lifestyle

Now that you have these 6 steps, which one are you going to work on first? As Georges St-Pierre once said, “If you look good, you feel good and if you feel good, you do good”. And we could all use a little more good in the world. And besides, why wouldn’t you want to show off the best version of yourself?

In order to present the best version of yourself to the world, you have to be your best version. And the best way to do that is to have healthy habits. Keep reading for 7 Life-Changing Healthy Habits to Adopt!

The post How To Make Yourself Prettier Without Makeup : 6 Transformative Ways That Are Easier Than You Think appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

Best Ingredients in Eye Creams for Your 30s

1) Antioxidants: This is one of the best ingredients you need in your eye cream when you turn 30. Antioxidants help prevent free-radical damage from UV rays to slow down early signs of aging.

2) Green tea extract: A good eye cream should contain green tea extract. It acts like botox – it tightens the eye-area skin.

3) Cucumber extract: Placing cucumbers on eye bags has proven to be an effective way of reducing puff eyes. This is why it is an essential ingredient in a gel eye cream.

4) Hyaluronic acid: I am sure you remember reading about this miracle ingredient in our previous skincare articles. It locks in moisture and will help you retain plump skin. So if you are worried about getting crow’s feet around the corners of your eyes, this ingredient will help prevent that.

5) Retinol: This is the key if you are looking for an eye cream that increases collagen production and cell turnover.

6) Caffeine: We all know how a good cup of coffee keeps us alert throughout the day. Now imagine that for your eyes! There is a good reason they add caffeine to eye cream. It helps slow down the aging process by making your eye area more awake and well-rested.

7) Active ingredients: The right eye cream should contain peptides and vitamin E. These active ingredients are essential for making the delicate eye area look firmer.

Trying to navigate which eye cream has these ingredients can be a mission. So to make your search easy, we have found you the best eye cream for fine lines in your 30s. In fact, we have eight more of the best eye creams that will deal with any eye wrinkles. Browse through the list below to find eye products to add to your skincare routine.

1. Peace Out – Retinol Eye Stick

Get ready to say, “peace out!” to the appearance of dark circles and fine lines with this retinol eye stick. It is perfect for all skin types. So whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this eye stick will work for you. It is made with encapsulated retinol to soften fine lines and wrinkles while minimizing the look of dark circles.

It also includes a power peptide complex to make the eyelid look firmer. Plus, the vegan squalene and astaxanthin prevent dehydration which helps your under eyes look bright and glowy.

If you have skin concerns like a very sensitive under the eye, you should start out by using it once a week to allow your fragile skin to adjust to the retinol.

At such an affordable price point, it’s hard not to get it.

What people love about this product: “I was starting to notice fine lines around my eyes and was previously only using a moisturizing eye serum. I switched to this, and I love it! The lines have disappeared. I absolutely ADORE the applicator. The product is a medium consistency balm that sinks into the skin nicely. I haven’t noticed any irritation from the retinol, and I also find it very moisturizing.“

2. Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening And Depuffing Eye Contour Cream

There are many eye creams on the market that claim to minimize visible signs of aging but don’t give the best results. The good news is that this one works!

It is the perfect eye cream for fighting tired-looking eyes. This highly-rated cream is packed with caffeine which instantly reduces the appearance of dark circles and eye puffiness. It’s also crafted with Acmella Oleracea extract to smooth the look of expression lines around the eye area.

You don’t need to spend $3000 on eyelift surgery. Thanks to the horse chestnut extract, this eye cream provides a lifted look to the eye area.

What people love about this product: “Honestly, I see instant coverage of dark circles (and I have them PRETTY bad at baseline). The results have been pretty amazing. I am seeing some long-term improvements in my dark circles and eye wrinkles.”

3. Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream

You have most likely seen the Summer Friday Jet lag mask on many Instagram flat lays. Well, this cult-favorite skincare brand has other great products. And this eye cream is one that you need in your skincare rotation.

It contains vitamin c which brightens the under-eye skin and gives you antioxidant benefits. The formula also has a visibly firming peptide that reduces the look of wrinkles and fine lines. And for an energized look, this beautifully packaged eye cream contains caffeine that depuffs eyebags.

What people love about this product: “Basically, this is a perfect eye cream. I love a good thick, rich eye cream, and this one fits the bill. It’s not too heavy, and it’s not greasy at all. I also love the tint and shimmer! It helps to blur or even out dark circles and fine lines. Just a tiny bit of camouflage to help your tired eyes out.“

4. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream, White

Arm yourself against crow’s feet and premature aging with this retinol night eye cream. It boasts mineral hydration, which makes the undereye look radiant and healthy.

This one is also packed with enhanced retinol to minimize the appearance of fine lines. It is the best eye cream for fine lines in your 30s, especially if you are on the hunt for one under $50.

What people love about this product: “I’ve started noticing wrinkles and spent the whole of 2020 trying out different creams to combat them. I have spent a lot of money thinking expensive ones will be more effective, and it turns out that is not correct. This is the first one that made any difference at all, honestly. There is a noticeable difference after using it daily, even after the first week. I recommend it, and I will purchase it again. Very pleased.“

5. Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream

It is called a “smart clinical repair” for a good reason. This highly-rated eye cream has CL1870 Peptide Complex that fights the looks of wrinkles by boosting your natural collagen. And with the help of hyaluronic acid, it helps to target dry lines to give you supple and smooth skin.

To help you retain your youthful skin in your 30s, this eye cream is formulated with Sigesbeckia Orientalis extract to maintain your skin’s natural-looking density.

What people love about this product: “I love love this eye cream! It does not irritate my eye, and I have very sensitive eyes! Since I started using it, I wake up with dewy skin under my eyes, no more night wrinkles!!! The best eye cream I have used so far! I have dry skin, and I live in a hot climate, but I wake up every morning with perfectly moisturized under-eye skin! I also use it in the morning! Please keep this formula! It is the best eye cream I have used from Clinique so far, and I am a lifelong Clinique user!“

Related post: BB cream VS Tinted Moisturizer | Which is Better?

6. Dermalogica Awaken Peptide Eye Gel

Awaken your under-eyes with Dermalogica’s eye gel. It boasts a long list of ingredients to keep your under eyes looking as youthful as possible.

The soothing rosemary leaf extract reduces the appearance of puffy eyes. To achieve luminous skin, the subterranean Seed Extract smooths the skin texture.

What people love about this product: “I love this product! It’s a clear light gel that glides into the skin. A little goes a long way, and it never shows up on my skin. My under eyes feel refreshed and tighter shortly after using the eye gel! My new favorite under-eye gel feels so great.“

7. PLANTSCRIPTION Anti-Aging Power Eye Cream

This eye cream is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin. It has a super hydrating formula that instantly absorbs into your skin to give you wrinkle-free under eyes.

For the best results, dab the cream around your delicate eye area in the morning and nighttime. After continued use, you will start to notice fine lines disappear.

What people love about this product: “I have been using it for about a month, and I absolutely love it!! I have tried so many eye creams that never do what they say they do; however, this does. I put it on in the morning, and my makeup looks so good over this. It is so hydrating around my eyes. I have even noticed my fine lines look plumper, which is fantastic! I also love the packaging and how easy it is to pump out the perfect amount of product.“

8. Elizabeth Arden ADVANCED Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Eye Serum

Okay, I know what you are thinking — $67 on eye cream sounds crazy. But this last pick is one of the best eye creams for fine lines in your 30s. It has a lightweight formula that gives the delicate eye area a youthful restoring boost. The eye cream also helps lift the look of the eye contour and minimizes the appearance of sagging skin.

This non-greasy serum enhances the skin’s natural hydration and makes your skin softer and smoother.

What people love about this product: “It is a very special and very “serum” for the eye area, lightweight, and feels great once you apply it. This serum does help with tiny imperfections, lines, tired-looking skin. It provides consistency to the entire look of the complexion.“

Plump and hydrated under eyes is not the only way to look youthful. Creating classic eyeshadow looks also helps. And the best to do this is by picking the right eyeshadow brushes.

Up next: 8 Perfect Eyeshadow Brushes for Beginners

The post 8 Best Eye Creams for Fine Lines in Your 30s appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

As many women start to develop mature skin, they want to find the best anti-aging skincare products to restore their youthful glow. If you are reading this post, we can assume that you are on the hunt to minimize the appearance of fine lines and age spots. That’s where we come in! To help your quest, we have listed 10 of the best anti-aging skincare products that can show you visible results.

Key Ingredients To Look For in the Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Products

But before you browse through this list, here are key ingredients that top dermatologists say you should look for in anti-aging products.

A) Hyaluronic Acid: As you start to age, collagen production reduces, and you get loose and dry skin. Enter hyaluronic acid! This ingredient helps to increase elastin production to smooth wrinkles. It also makes the skin look (and feel) moisturized.

B) Antioxidants: Vitamin C is a good antioxidant that protects your skin from environmental stressors like damaging free radicals.

C) Retinols: Retinol is without a doubt an important thing that will create new collagen. It is a derivative of vitamin A. It is a must-have ingredient in skincare products.

D) Niacinamide: This is one of the best natural ingredients in skincare products. It’s a form of vitamin b3 that retains your skin’s moisture. And the result? Smooth fine lines and the skin looks more hydrated. Niacinamide also speeds up cell turnover to brighten up your skin tone and even discoloration.

E) Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: If your anti-aging skincare products do not give you sun protection, you might have to replace them. Using SPF is an effective anti-aging ingredient. Using it is the best way to slow down the aging process.

Now it is time to find the best anti aging skincare products to add to your skincare routine.

1. Powerful-Strength Vitamin C Serum

The best defense against aging skin? Kiehl’s vitamin C serum. I know what you might be thinking, “all that money for a vitamin C serum?” I agree. The price tag is quite expensive, but the results are worth it. 883 reviewers are certainly big fans of this product. They gave this pick a near-perfect 4.5-star rating, and I am not surprised why.

This vitamin C serum contains hyaluronic acid to reduce visible signs of fine lines. It is packed with vitamin C to penetrate your skin for up to six days so you can have peace of mind knowing that your skin is being protected against free radicals. The other good news is that it is formulated for all skin types.

You can use this serum in your skin care routine on a daily basis. Apply it twice — once in the morning and at night for the best results.

What people love about this product: “I am 48 and have started to see crinkling lines on my neck, as well as a deepening of the lines on my forehead, especially that irritating little line between my brows. I started using this product just two weeks ago. I am thrilled with my skin for the first time in years. The wrinkles on my neck seem to have disappeared, and the line between my brows is noticeably lessened. I am amazed. I have already started recommending Kiehl’s products to my friends.“

2. Olay Regenerist Cream

If you are noticing that your skin is getting super wrinkly and dry, meet your match! This anti-wrinkle cream by Olay is different from other wrinkle creams that may have previously disappointed you. It has active ingredients like Vitamin b3 that not only help boost skin cell turnover but also exfoliate to remove dead skin cells.

This anti-aging cream is also infused with amino peptides and hyaluronic acid to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For the best results, use it at the very last step of your skincare regimen.

What people love about this product: “I am 73-years-old. Many people my age will say that “nothing helps getting rid of wrinkles. I have tried everything.” That statement has also been mine. My wrinkles are on both sides of my chin and are very deep, and also above my lips. I have been using the Retinol 24 serum at night and Regenerest micro during the day, for 18 days religiously. This morning I looked in the mirror and saw that something had changed. My sagging cheeks are lifting, and my deep scars are getting lighter.“

Related post: 8 Best Foundations for Aging Skin Over 50

3. Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask

Just because you can’t wash your face in the fountain of youth doesn’t mean there isn’t another way to look youthful. You can use facemasks instead! They are great at minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, and this one from Tacha does the trick.

It is infused with antioxidants that help to restore your youthful glow and reduce dark spots. This beautifully packaged mask is also packed with anti-aging Japanese superfoods. It works well on different skin types such as dry, sensitive, and oily skin.

The mild fruit AHA derived from a number of anti-aging fruits does a good job at supporting skin cell turnover. It does this by removing the debris and dead skin cells. And the result? Smooth skin.

What people love about this product: “This is one of the few masks where I notice a difference after using it. My skin looks really glowy and visibly bright and youthful. I haven’t bought a whole ton of brightening masks But I took a chance on this one because I saw some influencers review it.“

4. Clarins Paris Total Eye Lift Anti-Aging Eye Cream

Get ready to flaunt a new refreshed and rejuvenated look with Clarin’s eye cream! You might recognize this cult-favorite product. It is considered a holy grail eye cream for skincare enthusiasts.

It is packed with guarana extract and caffeine to reduce puffiness. Additionally, the albizia extract and horse chestnut-derived escin are formulated to minimize the look of dark circles.

Did you know that it’s not only for the eyes? That’s right! Thanks to harungana extract and cassie flower wax, it will help to visibly tighten and smooth wrinkles all over your face.

What people love about this product: “I loved the texture of this eye cream. It is lightweight, creamy, and supple. You only need a tiny bit of the product because of its consistency. The cream is absorbed quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue. It adds delicate radiance and instantly blurs my fine lines. This product leaves under the eye area replenished and looking rested.“

5. Smoothing Primer Serum SPF 30

Sunscreen is one of the best anti-aging products you can add to your skincare routine. Too much sun exposure causes sun damage, which leads to wrinkles and dark spots. But we have good news! According to clinical research, applying sunscreen can be a single contributor to an improvement in anti-aging.

This is why you need this smoothing SPF primer for daily use. It helps to prevent premature aging and it contains antioxidants like green tea extract to blur wrinkles.

What people love about this product: “I don’t even use this as a primer, I don’t wear any foundation or much make-up. But at 52 and living at the beach — sunscreen is so needed. However, I HATE most all sunscreen for the face. It feels so heavy and like my skin can’t breathe. I had a “chat” with a very helpful PC customer service rep who suggested this, and I can’t rave about it enough. Not greasy, not stinky, not heavy. Just a light, silky potion that feels wonderful. I use the Resist line, and this is now my finishing touch!“

With a lot of anti-aging products on the market, it can be difficult to find the right one that will give you a youthful radiance. Luckily for you, this list of the top five best anti-aging products will save you from hours of scrolling online.

To ensure that you get the best natural-looking skin, you need to either choose a BB cream or a tinted moisturizer.

Up next: BB cream VS Tinted Moisturizer | Which is Better?

The post 5 Best Anti-Aging Skincare Products to Restore Your Youthful Glow appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.

So, why not end (or start) your day off with a revitalizing soak-in? These three bath recipes will take your bath time from boring to a spa-like experience. From tub teas to Himalayan and Coconut milk baths, scroll on to get refreshed, rejuvenated, and relaxed.

Bath Tea Recipe

To make your tub time more blissful, opt for a bath tea. As the name suggests, bath teas are tea sachets dunked in a warm bath. They are a sure way of finding calm and inner peace, while also delivering silky, smooth skin.

If you’re ready to become a DIY Queen, and make a bath tea from scratch, follow the instructions below:

How to make a bath tea

Supplies:

Tea sachets

Besides the fact that the tea sachets will make your bath time look aesthetically pleasing and fancy, they will hold all your ingredients with ease. Plus, you don’t have to worry about messing up your tub with herbs and salts.

Eco-Fil Disposable Tea Filter Bags for Loose Tea

Lavender flowers

If you want to turn your bath time into a 5-star spa-like experience, lavender will help add a touch of glamour to your bath. Not to mention the gentle and heavenly scents can treat a variety of conditions like anxiety, restlessness, and sadness.

Lavender Flowers for Tea

Colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is the perfect ingredient for self-care purposes. It works well for soothing, softening, and boosting moisture in the skin. It may be a splurge sometimes but it is worth every penny, particularly if you have eczema flare-ups, itchy skin, or rashes.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Bath with Natural Colloidal Oatmeal

Epsom salt

This is not your ordinary table salt, but rather a compound of pure magnesium and sulfate. It is a great ingredient for detoxing the body. So, if you are experiencing inflammation, sore muscles, or you just need to flush out the toxins – Epsom salts will absorb in your skin and reduce any of those issues.

Amazon Brand – Solimo Epsom Salt Soak (Pack of 3)

Directions

Time for the exciting part!

1. Use a spoon to fill each tea sachet with lavender flowers, Epsom salt, and colloidal oatmeal. Once you’re done adding those lovely ingredients, pull the sachet’s drawstring closed as tight as possible, to ensure that the contents don’t escape the bag and clog your bathtub.

2. When you’re ready to use it and pamper yourself, add the bath tea to warm water for five minutes before hopping in.
   
3. After you are done treating yourself to a nourishing bath, remove the teabag before you drain your bathwater. You can either throw it in the trash or use it as compost for your home garden.

Himalayan and Coconut Milk Bath

A good Himalayan and coconut milk bath provide a perfect element of escapism — a moment of self-care to take your mind off any stress-inducing thoughts.

Taking this soothing bath soak is also the best way to achieve baby soft and sweet-scented skin.

Creating a lavish Himalayan and coconut milk bath may sound complicated, but it’s actually easy. So, if you’re ready to achieve soft and supple skin. Scroll on to learn the recipe:

Supplies:

Mason Jars

Mason jars are handy for storing any leftover ingredients for your next relaxing ath. Plus, just picture how pretty it will look perched next to your bathtub.

Ball Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [6 Pack] With mason jar lids and Bands

Himalayan Sea Salt

Dealing with redness or skin irritation? Look no further than Himalayan Sea salt. It’s not just used to spice food. This salt can be added to a bath as well! It helps treat eczema and psoriasis.

Viva Doria Himalayan Pink Sea Salt

Rose Flowers

Dried rose petals will make you feel like you’re taking a flower bath in Bali, but a fancy rose petal bath isn’t just about the aesthetic. It soothes irritated skin, brightens your complexion, and tightens your pores for flawless-looking skin.

Related post: The French Girl Beauty Guide for Effortlessly Beautiful Skin

Dry Rose Petals, Red and Fragrant

Mint

If you love mint tea, you’re going to enjoy sprinkling dried mint leaves in your cleansing baths. On top of making your bathroom smell amazing – Mints are used for a multitude of ailments like improving cold symptoms, alleviating allergies, etc.

USimplySeason Mint (Dried Cut & Sifted, 4 Ounce)

Coconut Milk

If you can’t seem to deal with dry skin, the best way to moisturize and hydrate your skin is with coconut milk.

Organic Coconut Milk – 13.5oz – Good & Gather

Ingredients:

½ Cup of Himalayan Sea Salt or Epsom Salt
¼ Cup of Rose Flowers (Fresh or Dried Petals) Or 3 drops of Rose Oil
¼ Cup of Mint (Fresh or dried sprigs)
½ Cup of Coconut Milk

Directions:

1. Create a tranquil experience by adding a relaxing ambiance in your bathroom with candles, music, and incense.
2. Add all the ingredients in a bowl and toss gently to combine. When it is well mixed, transfer it in a mason jar to store. Keep the jar in a cool dark place and use it within two months.
3. Fill up your tub with a handful of the mixture. and allow it to dissolve in hot water before you hop in the bath.
4. Enjoy your lavish bath and soak in all the detoxifying minerals.

Lavender Epsom Detox Bath Recipe

Taking a lavender Epsom detox bath will take your bathtime from basic to blissful.

This specific detox mixture is popularly used to soothe and calm the mind. Plus, the Epsom salt makes this bath recipe rich in minerals that can do everything from detoxifying the skin to soothing sore muscles. So, when you need to treat both your body and mind, a lavender Epsom detox bath will help soak the bad vibes away.

Ahead, you’ll find a quick and easy Lavender and Epsom Detox Bath recipe:

Ingredients

20 Oz Epsom Salt

1 Tbs Lavender

2 ML (about 40 drops) Vetiver essential oils

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Epsom salt.
2. Add the Vetiver essential oils. Use your hands to thoroughly mix in.
3. Add the dried lavender and mix in thoroughly.
4. Transfer the finished mixture to mason jars. Store it in a cool dark place.
5. Once you’re ready for some tub time, add a large handful to hot bath water.
6. Sit back and enjoy your luxurious bath.

There is nothing more peaceful than sitting in a hot bath. But instead of just sitting in plain hot water, try using one of these three ritual baths to unwind and destress. It’s the best way to feel cool, calm, and collected.

Now that you have chosen the right bath recipes, it’s time to transform your bathroom into a spa with this affordable bathroom makeover idea!

Up Next: Classy Master Bathroom Makeover Reveal

The post These DIY Bath Recipes Will Take Your Bath From Basic to Blissful appeared first on MY CHIC OBSESSION.