DermaE Vitamin C and Anti-Aging Skin Care - what's good and what's not.

 *pr sample*

Hello ladies and gents! It's been a while since I last visited here. Since July 1st I am officially back to my regular job... And trust me I been super busy, hence I had to step away from the blogging world. I was active on IG tho but still its not the same.

I had few post in drafts, so I will be posting that first, unless something new comes along :) Like new launches or Christmas collection sneak peeks (can't wait for that). 

Today's post is the collab I signed up for that features one of my favorites skin care brands: DermaE. They were kind enough to sent over the Vitamin C line (my fave), but there was a small hiccup and I got the anti-aging line first and then two weeks later they sent the Vitamin C line. But since I got both and I start using Anti-Aging products as well, I just going to include it my thoughts here as well :)  

VITAMIN C LINE 

• Vitamin C Gentle Daily Cleansing  Paste - this is skin brightening, antioxidant, rich facial cleanser and mask that gently exfoliates the skin. Non-abrasive Ancient Rice and calming Golden Turmeric create multi tasking paste to help promote skin clarity and reduce appearance of uneven skin tone, reveling a radiant complexion. My thoughts: I like it, but I rather use it as a cleansing paste then mask. It have very gentle beads (Ancient Rice) that as not too harsh on the skin. The texture reminds me of a strawberry polish rather then turmeric as the paste color is more pink then yellow. It gets the job done. I like to follow up with a cleanser afterwards. I always do that I use the peeling/scrubs firstly and after I use the cleanser. 

• Vitamin C Concentrated Serum  and Vitamin C Renewing Moisturizer - I actually tired both already in the past. They are featured in my top post here on the blog. Read it here.  Both have been staple in my routine for past few years. and I am happy to have a new set. I did gifted one of these to my friend (forgot which one) and she loved it. I think it was Christmas gift and when her birthday came I had few extra products of DermaE and I gave it to her. She told me she loves this brand and the products coz it didn't broke her out and they are very gentle. So each time I have something extra I make sure to give it to :) Share the love right :)

• Vitamin C Intense Night Cream - This stabilized Vitamin C formula delivers restoring overnight moisture, reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles. Probiotics and Rooibos work harmoniously with Vitamin C to help shield and strengthen skin's natural moisture defenses. Skin will appear smoother and firmer looking. Now to be honest I have not tried this cream yet. I got the anti-aging ones as well and ... I don't know which should I try first. LOL I know first world problems.... But since I already open both above mentioned serums I might just keep this one for later :)

• Vitamin C Anti-Blemish Clarifying Bi-Phase Toner - I think this is the newest launch by DermaE. I already got one in PR few weeks ago and I started using it. I mean I take anything anti blemish. I been using it every day for like a week and half now and I love it. My skin is getting clearer and acne appears less. It is formulated with Tea Tree Oil with is known to help battle acne. What I love about this is that I can be used by teens and adults. I notice that my daughter getting breakouts here and there so this comes really handy to use by both of us. 

• Vitamin C Bright Eyes Gel Patches - YES! I love these so much! I mentioned them before here. They are so fun in the morning before all the makeup application. After I wash my face I always pop them on and get my coffee going. Take them off after 10-15 min and my under eyes are so refreshed.Over all my eye look more awake. Definitely something I recommend to all. 

ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE 

• Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser with Vitamin A and Glycolic Acid - I am a huge fan of DermaE cleansers. I believe I mention that already many times LOL. Their hydrating cleanser is my absolute fave, but this one is cutting really close. It is really gentle on the skin and it cleans away dirt with ease. Its enrich with vitamin A, Glycolic Acid and Papaya fruit extract. If you are on the look out for a new cleanser , take this one by DermaE under consideration. 
• Anti- Wrinkle Scrub -  is the second fave from this line. Again the main ingredients are vitamin A and Glycolic Acid. I do like it more then the Vitamin C past I mentioned above. Its much more "scrubby", but not harsh, so it can be used 2-3 times a week. All depends on your skin. I use it every other day and so far I am ok. I used this first and then I go with the anti wrinkle cleanser. Perfect duo :)

• Anti-Aging Regenerative Day and Night Cream - again I am going to be completely honest, I didn't open it.  As of now I have the Vitamin C serums open so I will wait until I am done with both and get into these guys. 

Everything can be found on Dermae Website ---> click here. 

So that would be it on my DermaE skin care. Just fyi this is a collab with ApexDrop so all the products were provided as a PR samples exchange for honest review. All DeramE products are available at ULTA, DermaE.com, Face Values (I saw them there today), Target. 

New in by DermaE - Winter-Spring Skin Care Routine

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Quickly wanted to stop by and share once again Dermae skin care :)

I have three products to share with you that helped me during colder weather.
These are also a perfect for Winter- Spring transition as the weather is still colder rather then warmer :) Definitely a saviors for people that struggle with dry skin.

Products were provided by DermaE in collab with ApexDrop 

* Hydrating Day Cream - this is a moisturizer I had in the past and remember loving. I had both versions day and night and they were staple in my routine, especially during winter months. As the name suggest it is hydrating cream I say deeply hydrating. It goes on smooth and sinks in the skin. It really feels good especially when your skin is really thirsty for that extra moisture. 

Ingredients :

• * Hyaluronic Acid: Known as nature’s “moisture magnet,” Hyaluronic Acid delivers intense moisture, infusing skin with healthy hydration. Hyaluronic Acid moisturizer is especially beneficial for dry skin.
• * Green Tea: This provides vital antioxidants for the skin so it looks refreshed and glowing.
• * Vitamin C-Ester: Also called ascorbyl palmitate, this form of Vitamin C can penetrate cell membranes for powerful antioxidant benefits. Vitamin C helps reduce the appearance of common signs of aging such as lines and wrinkles and discoloration, while also protecting skin from environmental damage.
• * Vitamin A: The “skin vitamin,” also known as retinyl palmitate, supports with the cell renewal process to help skin look fresh and revived.
• * Vitamin E: Lock in moisture for a softer, younger-looking complexion with the help of this potent hydrating vitamin.
• * Panthenol: ProVitamin B5 is extremely hydrating and keeps skin conditioned and healthy looking.
• * Aloe Vera: This plant-derived ingredient is soothing and healing for the skin, creating a soft and supple feeling.
• * Jojoba Seed Oil: This oil intensely moisturizes, and may also promote skin cell renewal.

* Ultra Hydrating Alkine Booster - oh men I remember wanting this when it first came out. It is really hydrating. I like to mix it with moisturizers and primers. it sinks quickly, leaves skin feeling soft and radiant. It gives a drink of hydration to dry skin. Even oily gal like myself loves this. It does not make my oily or shiny during the day. I been suing this for 2-3 weeks straight on top the primer and foundation applied really good and evenly. Skin felt plump and makeup lasted a long time. 

Enrich with :

Hyaluronic Acid delivers intense moisture, infusing skin with healthy hydration.

Alkaline Water helps to hydrate, moisturize and support the skin’s natural pH balance.

This powerful hydration booster intensely replenishes and balances skin’s natural moisture barrier, reducing the appearance of fine lines, dullness and dehydrated skin. Lay over Hydrating and Night Crème moisturizers.

* Vitamin C Bright Eyes Hydro Gel Patches - guys patches are so fun! I dunno I love them especially in the morning when I get ready. After washing my face I pop these on and make my coffee and get everything ready for my morning routine. Vitamin C line by DermaE is amaze-balls! And its is the second most popular post on my blog. (link here).  Alkine Booster and these patches are the new addition  to DermaE skin care line. So I was twice as happy to try it. If I keep them for 10-15 min under my eyes and then take them off I can tell that my skin looks a lot brighter and more awaken. 

Key ingredients : 

Allantoin: Increases skin smoothness and moisture absorption, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Caffeine: A strong antioxidant that reduces inflammation and puffiness while tightening and brightening the skin.

Vitamins C & B3: Contain anti-aging properties that target fine lines, wrinkles and dullness while helping to brighten the under-eye area

Winter Skin Care Routine with Dermae, Clarins and Willing Beauty

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The winter months can be difficult and harsh. And let me tell you NYC winter this year is no joke. For over two weeks temperatures were below 20F. 

And my oily skin become dry and rough. So mainly I focus on hydration and use a lot of hydrating products. 

Here is what I been using during last few weeks 

DermaE Hydrating Cleansing wipes ~ I got them in the mail like two weeks ago I believe. And they are the reason that the post didn't go up two weeks ago, hahaha! I figure if I like them i will include them in here and guess what!? I like them. What I like the most is the cloth itself. It is thick, soft and soaked. It removes my makeup with such an ease! I need only one wipe to clean my entire face and neck. They are what my dry skin needs at the moment. I do like the scent as well. There is a hint of cucumber scent if I am not mistaking.  Each wipe is infused with Hyaluronic Acid that helps condition, soften and smooth skin, leaving it fresh and dewy. Fortified with super fruit extracts like Grape Seed and Maqui Berry, they offer antioxidant protection while keeping skin clean and refresh. Even tho I said they take off makeup I will still no matter what wash my face with cleanser.  ($7.19 at DermaE and Target Website)

DermaE Hydrating Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid ~ one of two cleansers I been using. I love how convenient it is. Hello pump! It purifies, restores and refreshes my skin. Papaya exfoliates to regenerate the skin, while lemon grass acts as natural astringent to tone and tighten. Hyaluronic Acid binds moisture to the skin for smooth and radiant complexion. I been using it morning and night time. It cleanse very well and works great with my Michael Todd Beauty Soniclean.  It does not strip the skin and it really hydrates it. My skin feels really soft and most of all hydrate. No more itchiness!

I use it to even remove my eye makeup coz its really gentle and non irritating.  ($13.95 Dermae)

My second cleanser is Willing Beauty  Do-Over Nourishing Cleanser. I really like this one. The formula is silky and smooth. Comes out like a balm and later it foams up a bit  and beautifully not only removes left over makeup but also leaves skin hydrated. Leaves no residue and don't strip the skin. I use this one mostly night time coz it removes makeup really good. Especially on the days when I don't use wipes. Definitely a mist have for me this winter. Plus it is great for sensitive skins! ($18, here)

After all the cleansing I go with Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Bi-Phase Serum. I apply it before any moisturizer morning and night time.  A light weight, moisturizing serum designed to nourish with organic leaf of life extract to protect against dehydrating effect that damage the skin, such as sudden temperature change. I use two pumps and apply to my skin. It sinks in right away. My skin feels soft and hydrated! what else can I want? Perfect for the winter months. ($78, Clarins and other retailers like sephora etc)

Along with serum I been suing Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Cooling Gel. I love this guy! I use it all year round. I do love the light scent of it. I really addicted to it hahah ! It have a gel like consistency that sinks into my skin and leaves it hydrated!  After it settles in the skin it leaves it matte. I do like when my skin is matte but lately I need some glow. I am pretty sure I will have a lot of use of this guy during warmer months as well. So if you need boost of hydration this is your duo! Both Clarins products work amazing together. ($48, Clarins and other retailers like Sephora etc)

The last moisturizer I want to mention is DermaE Hydrating Night Creme ~ another must have for me. This is drugstore option and it is budget friendly. This one hella amazing night cream. The formula is a bit thicker and takes some time to sink into the skin. It makes my skin hydrated and soft. Again no irritation. It did calmed my redness and helped with my acne. Creme also have anti-aging properties. My skin loves it and I bet your would too. ($29.50, DermaE)

Vitamin C anti aging skin care ~ DermaE, C2CaliClean and InstaNatural

*pr sample*

Ok, so here we go another anti aging skin care post. :) coz hey better start faster then be sorry later :)

 Vitamin C is an antioxidant powerhouse with skin brightening and anti aging properties.
Did you know Vitamin C support collagen heath, which is responsible for skin firmness? It helps brighten the skin, so if you have a dark spots or uneven skin tone and sun damage, you should look into products that contain vitamin c.

One of my favorite skin brand - DermaE, launched Vitamin C boosted skin care line that includes concentrated serum, moisturizer, night cream and micellar water.
DermaE is vegan and cruelty free brand. Their skin care products contain non toxic ingredients and well environment friendly. First I heard of DermaE on Instagram.  Some bloggers I follow was lucky enough to test their skin care. I, myself love to discover and try new brands. And was lucky enough to be added to DermaE Pr list :) and here I am writing my first ever review on the blog.
I have way more products to write about in later time :)
for now lets talk about their Vitamin C anti aging skin care.

A while back I was send Concentrated Serum and Renewing Moisturizer. Both products feel good and my skin really like them. I do have acne and sensitive skin. They feel non irritating and smells great. As you can guess citrus-y kinda scent :)
First, I put on the Concentrated Serum ~ it helps brighten skin and boost collagen health, minimizing the look of wrinkles, fine lines while improving the appearance of uneven skin tone. Hylauronic acid and Vitamin C (key ingredients) work together to protect skin form environment stress, helping prevent the signs of aging. Soothing Aloe and Vitamin E deeply moisturize for a rejuvenated you. Another great ingredients are Rose Hip Oil and Green Tea, to which my skin reacts well. Overall this serum is great. It does absorb fast and didn't clog my pores.
Renewing Moisturizer ~ lightweight and radiance boosting  moisturizer, supports collagen heath, help  to improve the appearance  of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Probiotocs and Rooibos work with nonoxidizing vitamin c to shield and straighten skin natural defenses for smoother and firmer skin. Works perfect with serum. Plus it can be use day or night.
Both products work well with my sensitive skin :) Vitamin C skin care available here.

Now we took care of the skin and now time for lips :) Yes you can't forget about the lips!
Recently I got a anti aging lip balm by C2CaliClean. I'm not going to lie I never heard of them before. I was just send a box full of oranges and two lip balms :) Can't complain here :)
So give your lips what they have been craving - anti aging lip conditioner that has proven to replenish, repair and n nourish . C2CaliClean lip conditioner is packed with rich natural oils to bring back life in to the lips. It provides :
* long lasting hydration
* deep conditioning
* refreshing citrus-y mint experience

I use this lip balm night time, after scrubbing my lips I applied it and simply go to sleep. .Most days I wear lipsticks so only on the days I don't I apply it. It does feels good, I do adore the scent :)  So if you struggling with a dry lips this might be for you :)
Lip balm can be found here.

and last is a Vitamin C toner by my other favorite skin care brand InstaNatural. This is not the first time I'm mentioning InstaNatrual on my blog. i seriously love their skin care. Now that they repacked all the products I love it even more. The packing is one of the factors that makes me buy a product. It is important.
InstaNatural is a small company that started in Florida. their goal is to provide natural, effective skin care solution/Their products focus on organic and natural ingredients without using harmful parabens and other questionable ingredients.
I was lucky enough to meet with Shana, who works for InstaNatural a while back. It was nice to learn more about the brand that you really like , you know ?!
Im not gonna lie I have a bunch of InstaNatural products so at some point there will be a brand focus post, in which I can talk a bit more of each product.
Today I will focus only on Vitamin C toner, which is life! Spray on toner!  I actually like them more than regular toners. i feel like I don't waste that much of a product. The mist is really nice and there is not dripping ! The toner is boatload with herbs that have anti-acne, anti-aging, skin-lighting and skin-inflammatory benefits. Daily use will support skin protective barrier, priming it to absorb serum and moisturizer more effectively. the key ingredients :
*  MSM  ~ is essential source of sulfur and it has anti-acne, anti-aging and skin lighting and soothing properties .  It helps to reduce appearance of pores.
* Witch Hazel ~ anti-acne and anti-inflammatory agent. it contains healing active ingredients. It is good to own a Witch hazel because of all the properties.
* Lavender Oil ~ nourishes and refreshes skin, also anti-acne agent.  Lavender oil is the most used essential oil in the world.  It help to restore skin complexion, reduces acne and slows aging .
* Geranium Oil ~ nourishes and refreshes skin, Helps with acne and dark spots on the skin.
* Vitamin C ~ it is basically good for your skin. Helps with anti aging, acne, reduces fine lines, wrinkles,
Toner can be used by all skin types, however if you have really sensitive skin make a skin test before spritzing it all over your face. I have oily-acne-sensitive skin  and I find that it works really good on me. I never got a bad reaction and my skin feels amazing. Plus this stuff smells so good!
InstaNatural is sold mostly online.
I leave a link here that will take you straight to their website.

thanks for reading !
xo Monica