11.17.2015

# Skin Care

Let's Talk Skin Care 2015



Before this week's post begins, I would like to thank all of the readers who helped make Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic a New York Times Bestseller! We came in at #4 on the bestseller's list for fashion manners and customs. Thank you readers. I am so grateful for your support.

We are long overdue for a skin care post on The Daily Connoisseur. There are many products I've been using recently that I can highly recommend and I do so in this week's video, along with a demonstration on how to use them. In this post I share some high-end luxury products as well as some drug store finds so there should be something for everyone.

Here are the skin care items I discuss in this week's video. Below, I share a link for them, along with the official description of the product as well as the official direction on how to apply (if applicable).

Be sure to watch my video for my own take on each of the products. If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog or visit my channel (and don't forget to subscribe!) www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur



Le Weekend de Chanel weekly renewing face care: A smooth, silky concentrate enhances skin renewal, with a combination of may rose water and a targeted, high-tolerance glycolic acid complex that is gradually released for ideal exfoliation and lasting hydration. Instantly, skin is softer and more luminous for the week ahead. Apply this to cleansed skin (use this instead of moisturizer) one a week on the weekend! It is recommended that you do not wear makeup the next day after applying it. I usually use this on a Friday or Sunday night.

Kensington Apothecary Rose Oil Cleanser ** If you haven’t tried Oil Cleansing, you’re in for a delicious surprise. If you’re already hooked, this is the pure, nourishing oil blend you’ve been waiting for. Dislodges and encapsulates even the most stubborn oil and grit and sweeps away clean, so your skin's natural lipid layer can go back to doing what it was designed to do. Smooth a pumpful of oil cleanser all over your face, massaging for several minutes or until all dirt is loosened. Soak a clean organic facecloth in warm water and spread over face, gently sweeping away cleanser until all traces of grime and make-up are removed. Repeat as desired.

Simple eye makeup remover and cleansing pads I love these drug store makeup removal wipes. They are handy to travel with and they remove my makeup efficiently. I've been using these for years now.

Dermal- E This ultra-hydrating day crème thoroughly moisturizes and plumps to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

and Dermal-C creme Scientifically advanced vitamin C cream for antioxidant protection, anti-UV photo-aging, and reduced appearance of fine wrinkles. Contains a full 5% USP-grade vitamin C that is stabilized, protected by a molecular membrane, and designed for optimum sustained release. Also contains magnesium, potassium, calcium and sodium ascorbates. Apply twice daily and experience many visible anti-aging benefits! Non-comedogenic and free of mineral oil.

Eminence Calendula Oil Our Calendula Oil, loaded with alpha and beta carotenoids, will enhance your skin’s natural healing systems and infuse it with antioxidants to leave your skin looking radiant and smooth. Apply a thin layer over the entire face, or apply to affected areas 1-3 times per day, or mix 1-3 drops in your hand with your favorite moisturizer and apply.

News
Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic is #4 on the New York Times Bestsellers list for fashion, manners and customs. Thank you readers!

Imperfect Women writes a lovely review of Lessons from Madame Chic here.

Ramsey Recommends writes a great review of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic and shares a recent encounter that reminded her about the power of poise.

Momzina says Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic is exactly what women need.

A Home for Elegance writes a lovely review of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic.

Pink Julep highly recommends At Home With Madame Chic.

Celebrate Magazine includes Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic in their list of books they are loving for November/ December.

Comments of the Week
MT writes:
The element that is the biggest challenge for me is composure. I like a sense of control and order, and when that sense of order is upset I tend to lash out. I yell, give backhanded comments, think mean thoughts, slam doors, or other unseemly behavior. I have gotten better with awareness and by creating quiet time in my day to relax and regroup. Requiring myself to model appropriate behavior for my children has also helped.

MT, you are not alone. Many people wrote to me saying composure was the hardest characteristic of poise to cultivate and I have to agree! But it is very satisfying to continue to try. Our children are a great motivator for this.

Gillian writes:

Hi Jennifer!
I have read alll 3 of your books in the last couple of weeks. I think they are SO on target!
You have helped me with my inner dialogue...which can get quite jumbled up and scattered during the day.
Its easy to remember your "bite size" gems of advice to get me on track and breeze through my day with
Poise while looking and acting chic in a variety of situations!

"At Home With Madame Chic" was so helpful! I make my bed EVERYDAY now.

The other books have helped me with my over stuffed wardrobe closets by narrowing the core pieces to 10
It is amazingly more simple to get dresses!

Also thanks to your style secrets I now make an extra effort to smooth the hair and apply a bit of make-up EVERY day even if I am scrambling on a deadline.

Coming hone to that neat kitchen and tidy bedroom makes me SO happy!

When I catch myself in the mirror while trying to make everyone else look good I am not horrified by
Unfinished hair and no make-up and I can continue on with more confidence.
Thank you!
And am so happy.
Gillian


Hi Gillian, I just love hearing from readers on how the Madame Chic books have impacted their lives for the better. I am very happy for you and wish you continued joy as you cultivate a beautiful life.

Question of the Week
Sanddollar53 writes:
I enjoy your books very much and can not wait to read the latest.
I am wondering what your thoughts would be on this.
You invite someone to a Holiday dinner and give a time. They ask you if you can change the time so they can go to someone else's house first. I have had this happen more than once and it just seems wrong to me. Then I think maybe this is the way folks are now. Any feedback will be helpful. Thank you


Thank you for your question. As the hostess, you have the final say on what time your dinner will be served. Of course it is important to accommodate your guests. Many young couples, for example, try to go to both sets of parents' holiday parties. Use your discernment. If this is a family member with a valid and important reason for wanting to move the dinner back a half hour or so, you can use your discernment on whether or not this is something you'd like to do. If this, however, is someone who merely wants to hop from holiday party to holiday party, you can keep your time firm and let them know they are welcome to join you when they arrive.

Artistic Recommendation

S Writes:

Jennifer, It has been fun to watch and follow your blog these years and I am working towards a chic ten item-wardrobe. I am gravitating toward dresses too these days.

I have a suggestion - if you get a chance please watch "The time in between" series on Netflix. Its about a seamstress and the dresses portrayed in the series are divine . You can see the main character wearing the same dresses tailored to fit her over the episodes.All women in the series are portrayed as strong woman, chic and beautifully dressed always.


Thank you for this recommendation. This series sounds lovely!


This week I would love to know... what skin care recommendations do you have for us? Have you tried any of the products I reviewed? Let us know in the comment section below and you could be picked as comment of the week.


**FTC Kensington Apothecary Rose Oil Cleanser is the only item that was sent to me to review. All opinions are my own.


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26 comments:

Unknown said...

I can recommend Eucerin skincare products. A pharmacist recommended them to me as one of their ranges is specifically designed for acne sufferers. It helps keep my skin under control. Without it strangers stop me and ask me if I've seen a doctor about my terrible skin - I'm not joking. Eucerin is a German company and I can get the products quite easily in the UK but I don't know whether it exports to the US.

Mommy Sonal said...

Hi Jennifer, I have never been into skin care partly due to the fact that my mother never used any skin care products. However I do not have such great skin as my mom. I have been prone to acne and have had a combination skin all my life. What products would you recommend for combination skin types? Currently I am using
Night routine:
Skinceuticals cleanser
Murad night repair cream
Maria bedescu eye repair

Day routine:
LA roche posy tolerance ultra moisturizer

Could you recommend some products for combination or oily skin types? Thanks so much

DaniL said...

I personally have very sensitive skin and I have found that using as few products as possible is best for me. Philosophy's Purity Made Simple is an excellent gentle cleanser, it will remove all non waterproof makeup easily. I follow in the morning with Clinique's Dramatically Different Day Moisturizer and at night with Rosehip Seed Oil from Mountain Rose Herbs. I exfoliate once a week (gently!) by adding a teaspoon of brown sugar into my cleanser. I use a BB cream by Estee Lauder with spf to protect my skin. And that's it. Simple but effective!

Mommy Sonal said...

Hi Jennifer, I have never been into skin care partly due to the fact that my mother never used any skin care products. However I do not have such great skin as my mom. I have been prone to acne and have had a combination skin all my life. What products would you recommend for combination skin types? Currently I am using
Night routine:
Skinceuticals cleanser
Murad night repair cream
Maria bedescu eye repair

Day routine:
LA roche posy tolerance ultra moisturizer

Could you recommend some products for combination or oily skin types? Thanks so much

Anonymous said...


Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question. It was helpful. I have a different outlook on the situation now. Thanks again.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Great video today Jennifer!
I will be off to the Chanel counter to see about getting a sample of Le Weekend.
I am currently using and loving the Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses line for sensitive skin...eye gel, serum, night time moisturizer, oil and scrub. I adore roses and LOVE the scent of these rich products.
You skin is lovely and radiant!

After reading your latest book I have decided that I need to re -read your first and second books.

Best wishes,
Leslie

Linda Kerr said...

To cleanse my skin: Bioderma Micellar Water (French, available on Amazon). Prescription retinal every-other-night (this truly works with the small lines!). SUNSCREEN, ALWAYS, even on cloudy days! Very, very important! Vitamin C Serum (many good ones at various price points). Also, Eucerin Hyaluron Filler Night Creme. Caudalie Premier Cru serum. Pricey but worth it because a little goes a long way. I am a well-preserved 62. See my Facebook page for proof. --Linda Boardman Kerr








Pammie said...

I've been using the OCM (oil cleansing method) for several years and I'll never use anything else. It is true that like attracts like - so the oil removes oil and dirt from your skin beautifully. No need for pricey products either - i use sweet almond oil from the natural foods store most of the time except when the weather is really cold and dry, and then a thicker oil such as apricot kernel works well. It can be bought in bulk. You can google OCM to read about how to do it, but it's a simple process. I make my own exfoliant product by mixing sugar with coconut oil. This can be used all over.

D said...

Jennifer, what skin type do you have? Are these products geared for a certain skin type? Thank you!

rosie said...

I had a milia on the side of the bridge of my nose. It didn't get any bigger once it had settled but it lasted for about a year. After that, it started itching one day and a few days later it went - very quickly considering how long I'd had it. I don't have a scar or mark where it was. I did try and treat it with spot cream but that didn't work (at first I did just think it was a spot). After that I just left it. I read up about it and the advice said to leave it.

In terms of skincare, I live in the UK and use No7 Beautiful Skin cleanser for normal/slightly dry skin and the night and day moisturisers from the same range. I have extremely sensitive, combination skin and am allergic to loads of products, including top end products aimed at sensitive skin. So I'm delighted to find these products that are affordable and my skin is the best it's ever been. I never exfoliate it as my skin is so sensitive - it reacts if I try.

Anonymous said...

I find that products that claim to be anti-agers, with retinol and alpha or beta hydroxy acids irritate my skin -- even the ones marketed as being gentle. A lot of moisturizers make me break out. The only moisturizer I've found so far that my skin reacts well to is Dr. Hauschka's Rose Day Cream Light (the regular one is too heavy for me). Though it's marketed as a day cream, I use it as a nighttime moisturizer, as it does not contain a sunscreen.

For breakouts, I find that tea tree oil dabbed on the pimple with a Q-tip at night dries it up overnight. I was amazed at how well this works.

I had milia develop under my eyes shortly after I started using wipes to take off my eye makeup. I figured out that since that was the only thing I was doing differently, that must have precipitated it. I stopped using wipes (I now use plain grapeseed oil, and massage it into my lashes with a fingertip, then gently wipe off with tissue) and the problem went away -- or at least lessened to the point of invisibility.

Unknown said...

Hi! I would recommend you to start use clarins lotus oil in the evening after washed your face with a gentle cleaner. In the morning just use a toner to your skin ( do not wash! ) Then a la Roche posay effaclar duo. Ir hope this help you. My skin has got so much more normal and not so oily! Jane

Vicki Zimmerman said...

Excellent recommendations and I will definitely pick up the Chanel Le Weekend this week! I'm intrigued by the oil cleanser and may give it a go, on half of my face, as a test. I have sensitive skin and when I try something new, if I get a clogged white spot, or melia, on my cheek or chin, I get so frustrated, because I then know I have to have it extracted, with a needle, by my aesthetician. I don't know why certain products do this, but that's why I can't use Olay wipes, etc. I think there may be certain ingredients that affect some of us, due to sensitivity. I have been using Lancome Bi-Facil for several years without any problems.

I'm currently using Elta MD cleanser, tinted SPF 41 moisturizer day cream and eye cream and really like these products, which were first bought in a dermatologist's office and now from DermStore or Amazon.

I would recommend having it extracted by your dermatologist. I'm one of those who obsesses with a clogged pore, melia or acne, until it's resolved. Separately, while not judging in any way, I sometimes wonder why newscasters and on-air talent don't do "maintenance" to remove large moles on their faces. It seems like a simple, cosmetic procedure, and actually a healthy one to make sure that what's growing is nothing serious. I've often wondered why I see this on camera.

Jennifer, I love your videos and what you share and I'm always ready to try something new. As you say, it's wise to give the skin a break and not let it get accustomed to the same products. Thank you.

KT1 WRITES said...

Congrats on having another bestselling book with Poise! I learned so much about manners, and treating people with respect from your books!
Thank you for the mention of Momzinga.com on your blog. You have been a big help!

awhiterockgarden said...

I can recommend Lancome Nutrix for very dry skin and Rosacea. It is expensive but worth it. I am enjoying your new book!

Maureen said...

I love skincare products, and you have led me to some excellent products over the years. I was excited to see this week's video.

I too have had millia. I had two just above my eyelids/under my eyebrows a couple of years ago. At first I thought they would just be something that would go away on their own, but to my disappointment, they stayed there for quite a while. They were present when I once went in for a facial, and when I came home, I realized that my esthetician miraculously "erased" them! So something can be done for them. I'm so sorry you're dealing with one right now; they're such a nuisance!

I do have a few recent skincare loves that I am happy to share. One is Acure's organic argan oil. I use it in the same way that you currently use calendula oil. It's liquid gold! I use it on my face as well as my hair and my cuticles. It has amazing moisturizing and restorative properties. I highly recommend it.

Acure also makes excellent makeup removing wipes that contain argan oil; they're very good.

For about a year now, I have been enjoying for a while now is Andalou Naturals' 1000 Roses CC Cream. It smells heavenly and is a fabulous multi-tasking product. It really evens your skin tone and is great for days when you don't have time to apply makeup.

Another fabulous product I've been using for a couple of years now I was originally given by my naturopathic doctor to help clear up some acne. It's from Naturally Clear, and the product is their blemish stick. It's basically a high concentration of B-vitamins and aloe vera, and I have had great success with it. Whenever I see a blemish appearing, I gently rub the stick on the spot after cleansing at night, and the next morning, the spot is usually vanished.

Congratulations on yet another greatly successful book! I thoroughly enjoyed Polish Your Poise, and it inspired me to re-read Lessons from Madame Chic and Madame Chic at Home. Thank you for continually being an inspiration.

Rose said...

Another enjoyable and informative video Jennifer, thank you. Like you I change my skin care routine and products because my skin seems to "get used to" certain products and routines, a change usually garners a good response.

I haven't had problems with those little white "bumps" for years although, when I was in my 30s (I've just turned 60), it was a constant issue around my eyes. I urge you to make sure it is milia (which is easily removed by a professional) and not xanthoma which is what I had. The xanthoma looks much the same but actually occurs because of raised cholesterol levels, my levels weren't overly high but when I reduced them the problem disappeared.

I know you usually do your own manicures, I was admiring your "french nails" in this video. I would love to know if you used only clear polish and white pencil? There may be hope for my nails yet!

Polish your poise was a delightful read, really well done Jennifer! I am now "immersing" in the first two books again as Maureen said above.

Rose said...

Jennifer I meant to thank you for yet another great music recommendation -- the San Francisco Saxophone Quartet, it is so difficult to believe those four saxophones aren't a full orchestra!

Unknown said...

For those on a lower budget, I recommend the Simple cleansing facial gel. It's very gentle and doesn't overcleanse my skin (sounds odd, I know, but I often find if I use too many products it just breaks me out).

On a complete side note, I loved the music recommendations in Polish Your Poise, which reminded me of my love of jazz. I wanted to throw in my own: Dave Brubeck. He's a jazz composer who has made a lot of beautiful jazz versions of popular songs. There are some lovely Christmas ones, which are great for this time of year, and even some old Disney songs have been redone, which I think children would enjoy.

Frances said...

Hi Jennifer! Have you tried any products in the "French Girl Organics" skincare line? I keep seeing them on Anthropologie's site and am really considering trying them.

All Things Frivalous said...

HI Jennifer as I have hypersensitive skin and have tried so many products and have reacted the only skin care regimen I trust and use is Pai skincare from the UK. Wonderful hands on expertise and advice from Pai headquarters in the UK and their blog is just a minefield of information about everything. They have the oils as well as serums rather than the cleansers and a wonderful spray that restores the acid mantle of your skin after cleansing and really at any time of the day to use. I thoroughly recommend this skincare and my skin has never looked better. No chemicals or harsh ingredients either which is a relief as i am very allergic! All the best from Australia, Catherinexx

TriDerma said...

Really marvelous product you are providing. Diabetic Bruise Defense™ Healing Cream

Jennifer Ibarrola said...

You're such an inspiration, Jennifer! It's always so refreshing to learn from your blog. :)

Much love from the Philippines

April said...

I read somewhere else that French women start dry skin brushing around the age of 12. Is this true? I've dabbled in it. It's supposed to move the lymphatic system, exfoliate and some other great stuff. Did you hear about this in France?

Also, I would love to hear more about times when Madame Chic corrected you or told you point blank something a little shocking. She reminds me in some ways of my own mother who never let me leave the house without lipstick starting at the age of 12, and would NEVER have let me leave the house without being nicely dressed. She once made me go upstairs after I'd already gotten all the way ready to wash my hair and put on my nice work clothes before we went on a 5-hour drive to my Aunt's house for Thanksgiving. I had put my hair up in a nice updo, so it wasn't like my hair was al greasy and gross. She just liked it better down. I was 19 and worked in a department store. So instead of wearing my favorite (nice) jeans and a cute top, I had to put on my black work slacks, dressy top, scarf and heels. I was so out of place. NO ONE else was dressed that way. Her reason? "Your relatives haven't seen you in so many years. Wouldn't be nice if they saw what a beautiful young woman you've grown into?" Meaning, I finally outgrew my ugly, awkward stage and everyone needed to know it.

One time, my mom and dad sat me down in college and told me that I needed to wear more makeup. At the time I wore a tinted moisturizer to even my skin tone (no acne trouble by then), mascara and lipstick and filled in my brows. Basically they were strongly suggesting wedding makeup for every day. Thanks mom and dad. I had no lack of dates or male attention. You know that Miranda Lambert song, "Mama's Broken Heart"? "It don't matter how you feel, it only matters how you look." That is Southern gospel. I was raised on it. My mom's famous advice? "You can laugh or cry, but crying ruins your makeup."

I can laugh about it because I understand they are both extremely conservative, traditional Southerners, and they have good intentions. I appreciate it in a lot of ways. I always get up, get dressed with hair, makeup, nice clothes every day. Even when I had infant triplets I did it. I didn't wear silk, but I wore khakis or nice jeans and nice knit tops. I'd shower at night so I could get ready in 15 minutes in the morning. I'm always ready to leave the house at a moments' notice or answer the door. I don't have to keep an eye on my figure because my mom does it for me. For this reason I find it highly amusing when you share those moments. I grew up with it. I'm still living it. "That lipstick makes your gums look they are bleeding." She was right. I don't have the right skin tone for muddy lipsticks. I still wore it for another month just so she wouldn't think I switched for her.

I'm really enjoying all of your content. Thanks for sharing.

Anonymous said...

Dear Jennifer & all!

I recently got hold of a supergreat skin care product I have to share! Since the product is French I thought it might interest the more? It's a super easy and THE-most effective make up remover/cleaser I have ever tried! It's a small micro fiber glove called Lapi glove to wich you only add water. Use to remove ALL sorts of make up, including mascara and eyeliner! Eco friendly and highly affordable since you wash and re-use over and over :)

I ordered it online to myself and a friend and we are equally astonished at it's efficacy! I live in Sweden so I have no idea from where the rest of you could get hold of it but a search on google or perhaps amazon might solve the mystery for you.

Here is a review/demo of it by a french blogger on Youtube: https://youtu.be/QQ2Jxcgwh0o

I agree it does look to good to be true (like a tv-shop commercial) but it is true, it really works just that amazingling well. I bought it not expecting much, but it really is amazing!

Since writing I might as well share another beauty tip of mine, also Frech :) It's the make up brand Une beauty. I would especially like to recommend their nail polishes, in particular the colour 01 wich is a nice pinkish neutral. In my opinion they are of much better quality than Essies polishes. And, the brand is eco friendly :) As well as being of superb quality and all beautiful natural colors well suited for the no-makeup-makeup-look.

Thanks for all & warm regards/Mrs Lind

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