A challenge to you DIY'ers
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free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 2:08 am

I am a police officer and I work a beat car, just like the mail man...rain, sleet, snow...I have to respond.

Here's my dilemma and your challenge. Due to the fact I am outside all night (3pm til 11 pm, without a late arrest) in and out of the heated squad car and the station they keep 2 degrees lower than Hades then back out into the cold handling assignments, traffic stops, etc. My skin takes a beating. I have found the answer for my body. (Thankyou EDS'ers for enlightening me to oils. It's not just for cooking anymore!) It's my face. I don't care how well I moisturize before 'putting on my face'. 2 hours into my tour and my face feels and looks like I rubbed it in sand! DRY, DRY, DRY. I have tried facial mists, but the effect is very short term (though refreshing) and if I use it too much my makeup begins to wash away.

I'm not opposed to something I had to carry with me or re-apply. Just has to keep me from feeling so dry and not wash my makeup off with repeated use.

Any takers? And if more info is required, just ask. I've been working to un-do years of abusing my skin, and I'm pleased thusfar with the results. Hate going to work feelin' so good and lookin' like a paper mache doll 2 hours later.

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 2:34 am

Okay Candy (why the heck am I feeling so nervous replying to your post - is it because the challenge is a big one or that you're a police officer? I din do nothin, officer!!! Bad Grin

)

Well anyways - I would give pure shea butter a try. There is a whipped and scented version avaiable (a Nigerian friend gave me 100% pure shea butter that was so 'natural' smelling it was foul and huge amounts of essential oils had to be mixed in to make it bearable. Works brillliant, though). I think if you google up shea butter you can find a lot you can buy online.

I can't think of anything else now don't cuff me alright Laughing

.

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 6:25 am

First of all, bless you and all your brothers and sisters in blue for putting yourselves on the line and oftentimes rushing in where angels fear to tread in order to protect the rest of us – you have my utmost respect and admiration.

What kind of moisturizer are you using before applying your makeup? I’m thinking that PM is correct in recommending something like pure shea butter because it should create a physical barrier to seal in moisture to your skin and repel the drying effects of the car heater. I’m also wondering if using some type of humectant to help attract and seal in moisture to your skin.

I was actually just reading about the various solid and liquid oils in the Personal Formulator’s downloaded product catalog (check it out – lots of great info on what each ingredient is for and what it does and how to use it!), so let me go back and check that section again and let me get back to you.

One other thing: the facial spritzes that you used in the past – do you know if they contained any essential oils? I’m thinking maybe we should look into facial spritzers again, but this time incorporate EOs that specifically address dry and/or dehydrated skin....

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 6:28 am

Oops, forgot something: do you use a Vit-C serum? I’m thinking perhaps you would better benefit by using one that has glycerin as opposed to propylene glycol, because glycerin is both a humectant and protectant.

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 8:31 am

If you decide to try shea butter, you can get it at africansheabuttercompany.com. I have some. It smells divine. I have oily skin on my face and tons of other moisturizers, and don't really need the shea butter. I'd send it to you, but I've used it already.

What do you do to wash your face? Have you tried the oil cleansing method? I imagine that'd help.

Best,

TI

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 12:56 pm

You gals are awesome. I knew I could count on you for some help.

Pumpin' - hmm

m, famous last words!! Wish I had a nickle for everytime I heard that one Laughing

Shea butter is ok. Tried every brand I've encountered for my body. I'm not oily (usually) but too heavy for my face.
And don't be nervous - the police are your friends! Now just lie down and do everything the nice officer tells you to do Razz

Sorry - would have a far better effect if you were the other gender Wink

Not to dissuade anyones ideas - all are welcomed and appreciated greatly but really glad you responded Dr. Hammond Wink

1st of all I thank you. I truely enjoy my job. You mention rushing in where normal people would be running for their lives Laughing

That's what I was doing last night. All very exciting! Love the pump n rush of it all. (Great story too!)

My routine has changed since I have found this forum. For the better I may add. You have given my tips for hubbys skin in other threads (not sure if you recognized the name). Currently I do the OCM twice a day (50/50 have fiddled with the percentages find this one doesn't dry me out or make my makeup slide off). Once, prior to getting in the shower for work, then again when I get home. Totally addicted to it and ticked b/c I've never heard of it before I found this forum. Following the OCM I apply Camellia oil or Squalane oil (depending on the weather that day) then Cellcosmet <sp> Eye Contour cream (not sure it works really great for me, but LOVE the smell!!). Then moisturize with DermaButter.

The only spritzer name I can recall off hand is Evian face spray <?> again, really refreshing but once it's dried, so am I Confused

Use it too often and my makeup begins to fade off.

I just received my PSF Emergen C serum last night and tried it after cleansing etc. such a lovely shade of pink I became. Laughing

Took about 30 minutes but my skin calmed and is fine today.

Anything you come up with would be greatly appreciated - not above being a guinea pig either. And I'm not alone here, the guys will never admit it, but I know the other gals I work with have the same problem.

TI - lol - I'm not above hand me downs! My legs, elbows and hands would love it. I have been using the OCM for about 2 weeks now and love the effects. It has improved my overall complexion and to a small extent with the dryness at work. But once those winds off the lake are swirlin' and I'm creeping thru alleys or bushes not much I can seem to do. Oh - keep in mind, for safety's sake I cannot wear anything on my face area (eg:scarf) just beggin for someone to try to hang me by it! Lately, could be my partner, lol. I have my bitchy moments especially in this bitter weather.

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 2:03 pm

Hi, Candy-

Let me know if you want the shea butter, and if so, an address/P.O. Box to send it to.

Like I said, I'm oily on the face. So I wish I could suggest more products that I know would work. How about Vaseline? It might clog your pores though.

Here are a couple things I read about on the Shefinds.com blog:

A Find: Carol's Daughter Face Butter

I have been loyal to my favorite moisturizer for the past couple of years. I have really dry skin, travel a lot and as the cold weather approaches I never wanted to tempt fate with a lesser product. I was challenged, however, by my friend to try a product outside of my comfort zone and I am now adding another facial moisturizer to my must-have stash - Carol’s Daughter Face Butter With its simple product packaging and lack of anti-aging scientific ingredients that I have come to expect from new products - I wasn’t expecting significant results. But when I applied the thick moisturizer on my forehead, the butter was absorbed by my thirsty skin immediately. It felt like I was doing something nice for my face, like I was channeling the beauty equivalent of nutritious vegetables to my complexion. The reward for stepping out of my beauty box was instant radiance. This will now be my go-to product when my skin needs a little extra attention. At an unbelievable price of $8 and the easy to transport no-leaking containers, I will be stocking up on multiples and filling all my travel bags with this product. Find it at carolsdaughter.com.

Beauty Find: Digestible Skincare

Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It’s also the most visible. My skin issues are borderline traumatic and I’ll go to any lengths, including ingesting botanical concoctions claiming to cleanse and revitalize from the inside. It’s the latest, haven’t you heard? Forget Vitamin Water, this is the latest in the “You are what you drink” beverage revolution. Borba Nutraceuticals (2.50) come in six ‘flavors’ with specific benefits like age defying, replenishing, firming, and a combo clarifying/anti aging formula.

The Replenishing Skin Balance Water
is a multi-functional formulation for anyone wanting to treat dry, sensitive skin. Lychee helps to promote long-term skin hydration. Usage: shake well, twist and sip. It’s tastes a little thick for water. The flavor is reminiscent of a lychee martini without the fun of the booze buzz.

The downside is that you’ll have to ingest these drinks religiously. The recommended prescription is two bottles daily for optimal results. But Borba promises visible results in 7 days so you won’t have to wait long to find out if it’s worth it for you.

Find Borba Nutraceuticals at Nordstrom.com where you can order the beauty fluid by the case (30.00).

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 2:19 pm

I ditto Carekate's sentiment of respect and adirmation for what you do. I think you have a tough job, which woud require loads of stamina...physical, emotional, spiritual and mental. You appear to have a wonderful positive attitude with a great sense of humor, which I'm sure you need.

I have dry skin and know exactly what you mean about feeling like a paper mache doll just two hours after moisturizing! My morning routine takes some time, but not because I apply a lot of makeup. I have to take the time to saturate my skin, and give it some time to absorb....in an attempt to hydrate my face and maintain hydration for 12 hours.

This site has helped me tremendously, also. I've learned about incredible products that really do help, and I've received many comments on my skin since using these recommended products. I'm always on the lookout for something better, and always will be, but here's what is working for me now:
AM:
*Vitamin C serum--Cellular Skin Rx or Vivier have the best texture/moisturizing properties for dry skin.
*AlphaDerma CE--all over face and neck as a treatment, not a moisturizer, although it's not drying at all. My skin has handled this well, but I'm currently looking for a replacement product for ADCE.
*Eye Cream--Cellcosmet, Thalgo and PSF are fabulous.
*Dr. Hauschka Rose Cream with two or three drops of squalene or Dermalogica Hydrating Booster mixed in. I apply a moderate amount of this all over my face and neck and let it absorb thoroughly.

I believe that this combination, especially the Dr. H Rose Cream, has improved my skin's overall hydration. My face appears and feels hydrated throughout most of the day. I do keep a couple of items with me, in case that dryness does occur....
*Dr. H Rose Cream--I squeeze just a tiny bit on my finger tips and gently pat all over my face. It absorbs fairly quickly without leaving my face looking oily.
*Spritz bottle with rose water and a few drops of squalene and camillia oil. Sometimes emu oil. This helps too!
(I do apply a small amount of moisturizing foundation in the morning, just to enhance and even out my skin tone, not to cover anything up. Even if I do need to pat in some rose cream or spritz my face midday or later, it doesn't mess up my makeup.)

At night, I use OCM with 25% Virgin olive oil, 25% grapeseed oil, 25% Avocado or Sweet Almond oil and 25% castor oil. Because I don’t have oily or combo skin or problems with breakouts, I use less of the castor oil and more of the emollient oils. I also like to apply various masks....hydrating, glycolic, enzyme masks. Dr. Hauschka's Firming Mask is very hydrating and smells divine. And I do use Renova, to help fight fine lines/wrinkles, and a mild microderm abrasion product two or three times per week.

So far, this is what I know to use for dry skin. I’m always open to ideas and suggestions.

free skin care · Wed Jan 18, 2006 2:30 pm

Debra - a kindred dry spirit. Smile

Thank you for your kind words. Humor is the ONLY way to survive 12 years in the ghetto of Chicago!! I'm very lucky to have been mentored by a select few tremendous police officers throughout my career that have gotten me thru quite a few rough times. I am what you call a "sh*t magnet" - trouble and screwy situations find me!

Against my better judgement (more b/c of personality) I have just ordered ADCE. My question to you would be why are you looking for a replacement of this product?

Your post has been very helpful as I have been trying to carefully select new products for myself and I really haven't been that sure when to apply what. Really becomes quite the science experiment for me Laughing

CareKate - What do you think of Debras idea of the rose water w/oil?

free skin care · Thu Jan 19, 2006 2:17 pm

Hi Candy,
You crack me up!
So sorry for the late reply. Things have been crazy and I just haven't had a chance to log in until now.

I have found that finding and applying appropriate skin care products a little bit of art and a lot of science! Just figuring out which skin care products are best for your skin type, which actives are best for your skin needs AND skin type...that's the challenge. For my dry skin, I keep my eyes open for reviews of products where people with combo or slightly dry skin report negatively about a particular product, stating that it's too emollient or rich for their skin. That's typically the product that I want and will work for me!

I've used ADCE for rearly six months, and have noticed improvement in my skin's firmness, and a reduction of some fine lines. It may be the result of a few products that I'm using regularly, but my skin appears and feels "bouncier"---more plump. I'm getting close to finishing my 2nd bottle of ADCE, and need to make a choice of ordering another or trying something new. I've been reading up on IS Clinical....here and other sources, and it appears to be a great line, providing positive results as well. After reading a thread about negative experiences that an EDS forum member had with Jason-Beckett customer service, I'm unsure if I want to continue to use the ADCE, based on principle only. But maybe I can get over it, as long as I order the ADCE from anywhere but the JB website. I do like the texture of ADCE...a light lotion that quickly absorbs, which tends to be much more soothing to my dry skin than various serums. I have some time to make a decision.

I believe that you made a very good decision in choosing ADCE, and I'm confident that you will be happily surprised with the improvement you will notice in a few short weeks.

Good luck and please keep us posted on the results! I would love to hear your feedback.

Take care of yourself and stay away from those bad guys!!! (I work to fight bad guys in cyber crime, which is challenging, but much safer than your line of work! I couldn't do what you do.)

free skin care · Thu Jan 19, 2006 7:08 pm

Glad I can make ya giggle - I have my momentary losses of sanity, so I substitute humor to keep from looking like a total fool Wink

This whole skin care thing gets REALLY confusing. Sat at the vanity last night reading the backs of all the bottles. Hubby thought I was bonkers b/c I'm sitting there with them all lined up in front of me saying (out loud mind you) "ok, you ALL can't be the 1st applied!!!" Mad

'someone has to be 2nd or 3rd!' For cryin' out loud. My solution you ask? <I knew you would Wink

) I eenie, meenied it. Hey - figured worst would happen my face would implode and wouldn't have any more worries over order... But - it all worked out (so far).

Cool - bouncy skin. rofl

There's something you don't see everyday Laughing

As I posted above I didn't want to order for similar reasons you mention, but ordered thru EDS. I have received several samples. It's not enough as a moisturizer for me, not in this weather anyway, but as much as I didn't want to, I do like it very much. Can't wait for the bouncy skin! Won't that be fun at the gym!!

And as I said - the bad guys find me. I look for them too, but more often than not it's the other way around. Thank goodness criminals have no sense or smarts - if they did....I'd be unemployed!! Luckily, doesn't look like that will happen ANY time soon. My job isn't rocket science, but you gotta be an adreneline junkie!

Thu Jan 19, 2006 8:33 pm

Heads up, new here. Just thought I'd add my two cents (or is that sense). I SWEAR by ROC Active C. I agree with Carekate, you skin is screaming for Vitamin C. This is a miracle cream if you ask me.

free skin care · Thu Jan 19, 2006 8:35 pm

Thanks Suki - I just got mine 2 days ago, and haven't been back to work yet. That's the true test. But - can say half way thru my day my skin starts feeling tight. So - I imagine, although the C may be helping, still not quite there. But - feel free to toss a few cents in anytime, I'm totally open to suggestions.

Thu Jan 19, 2006 8:46 pm

Give it time. I swear. It is really worth the wait. You skin has to 'adjust' to any new product. IT really, really works. I've been using pure vitamin C for the past 4 years (I am 40) and my skin is better than when I was 20 (no kidding). I also take Collagen and HA suppliments so in combination, maybe that is the 'miracle recipe' - at least for me it is.

free skin care · Thu Jan 19, 2006 9:34 pm

That's what I was hoping to hear. I just got my HA/collegen pills today too. Saving them for bedtime though. Doing my PSF Pumpin mask right now. Everyone is raving about it here. Only thing I've noticed so far is the dog keeps trying to lick my face!!

free skin care · Thu Jan 26, 2006 3:00 pm

Not sure this would help, but when I start getting really dry, I sleep in a mosture mask for at least a week and wala the dryness is gone. So I was thinking, what if you slept in the shea butter or a mosture mask, just put on all ur other stuff then add the mask or the shea on last. And I could really be wrong on this, but I heard somewhere that most mosture sprays (like evian) actually dry your face in the long run unless one uses a tissue right after applying. anyone know about this?
Melissa

free skin care · Fri Jan 27, 2006 1:59 pm

i'm not sure if anyone else mentioned this but Emu oil(healthfood store)heals the skin barrier so that it doesn't get so chapped. It's a Biological Healing Oil -BHO (not a brand),for short...it works for me.

free skin care · Fri Jan 27, 2006 2:25 pm

Thank you for your suggestions. What is a moisture mask?

free skin care · Fri Jan 27, 2006 7:06 pm

Hi Candy,

If your budget can handle one more suggestion, copper peptide products work to heal the skin barrier which prevents moisture loss from the skin. I have had much better skin since incorporating CP serum by Skinbiology corp. It used to be both oily and dehydrated, and now it is darned close to being "normal." I highly recommend the CP serum or cream. You can purchase samples from Dianayvonne.com. S

free skin care · Fri Jan 27, 2006 8:58 pm

Thanks. <whimper> That would be my credit card whining again, lol. Off I go to another web site!? Gosh I LOVE this!! I'm so goofy!

Since I have been getting all these great tips/products suggestions. No one has told me which order I should applying this stuff. Ya'll think I was kidding about the eenie meenie minee moe? My Facial Prep says to go 1st, and so does my PSF 20% C and let's not forget my Camellia oil oh and my Retinol too! For cryin' out loud. HELP!

free skin care · Fri Jan 27, 2006 10:06 pm

Hi Candy8865 - I'm 53 so I've been using anti-aging products. Among them, SC Retinol (.5%) and IS Clinical Firming Complex are quite drying (I alternate these at bedtime, and for maximum effectiveness, it's suggested that retinol be used alone), but applying SC CE Ferulic during the day (Vit.C serum should be your first layer before applying anything else) always seems to offset the dryness. I'm also using emu oil around my eyes at night, and there's so much about essential oils that I 'd like to learn about and experiment with in the future. Too much, actually Rolling Eyes

The PSF Pumpkin Mask will slough off dry skin beautifully, but don't overdo it -- once a week at most. I do this late at night because skin is more vulnerable afterwards. Some nights I don't use Retinol OR Firming Complex, just emu oil to give my skin a rest from all of these exfoliators. I'm thinking about trying Decleor Neroli or Iris oil for bedtime when my emu runs out.

ADCE is a nice product. When you're dry, you may want to skip the Mineral Skin Prep beforehand, although this is the part of the JB regime that seems to tighten my skin. Again, this would be applied after your Vit.C serum.

ALSO, even though you work evenings, you're still outdoors in the afternoon -- are you using sunscreen? If not, you should (and this should be your last layer before makeup). It's the most important anti-aging thing you can do for your skin, and imperative anyway considering the exfoliating products you're trying. Since I wear makeup, I use Avene Creme (winter) and Spray (summer). This is rather emollient/oily stuff (keep that credit card handy -- these are expensive). On days when I go without makeup, I use LaRoche Posay Fluide Extreme since it's a better screen (but makeup will negate it's effectiveness). One benefit of using these sunscreens is their oiliness helps retain hydration. Spraying water alone on your skin can be ultimately drying, unless you add a little oil as carekate suggested. But I can't imagine spraying even a small amount of oil on a made-up face -- I'd think it would cause acne issues (and ruin your makeup as well).

Good luck -- I ditto everything others have said about your profession. My husband and I own urban real estate and live in downtown Cincinnati. I'm always in awe of the professionalism and composure of police I come in contact with. They've helped us many many times. Simply unbelievable. You have my sincerest respect.

free skin care · Sat Jan 28, 2006 10:38 am

M.April - Thank you for the well thought out post. Every lil bit helps.

I'm still confused about the retinol thing. I've done searches on here but find I'm more confused than before I started reading. Laughing

I can say I learned the HARD way (usually the only way I do learn Laughing

) Do NOT use Vit C serum AND retinol A together! And follow the day on day off plan with the Retinol (had a wee bit of an "incident" with mine Embarassed

...but boy oh boy is my chin and jaw smooth now!!)

I tried a sample sent to me of the PSF pumpkin mask. Really wasn't terribly impressed. Smelled great, my dog loved it! But - not for me. Although every other PSF product I've tried I love! Esp the O2 Spray.

My moisturizers and foundations have SPF. And by the time I hit the street the sun isn't much of an issue, esp this time of year the sun is setting by 4:30. Summertime I def have on my SPF, of course like everything else regarding my face/skin routine it's changing. I usually buy whatever sunscreen that's on sale. When the time comes I'll be doing a search here to find what will work best for me.
The spray I made, pretty pathetic compared to others DIY talents is working, for the meantime. I have a big order coming from the personal formulaters this week. I used my empty PSF O2 serum mister, works good for now and sets my MMU great.

Thank you for your support, It's not often we encounter citizens who appreciate what we endure.

free skin care · Sat Jan 28, 2006 12:53 pm

Candy, if you choose to start using copper peptides, remember that they need to be used at the opposite ends of the day. Vit C and copper peptides cancel eachother out (chemically). Most people use Vit C in the morning because of it's photoprotection properties, and then copper peptides at night.

free skin care · Tue Jan 31, 2006 11:00 pm

Again thanks for all the tips (and off I go again to find Copper Peptides! will the insanity never end Laughing

)

I actually purchased a facial mist from Pure Luxe (MMU - LOVE it!, but that's another post, lol) It's perfect, exactly what I've been looking for. I found the ingredients on their web site but haven't the first clue has to how to concoct this thing. Any braver than me willing to give it a go? Not being lazy, I just wouldn't even know where to start!!

Essential Moisture Spritz - purified water, aloe extract, rosehips extract, liviquat mono CP predew200, d-panthenol, dimethicone, cremophora, DMDM hydantion, olive leaf extract, rooibos extract, ginko extract, white tea extract, green tea extract, calendula, chamomile, rose red clover, elder flower, white willow bark, caprylic/capric triglyceride, jojoba oil, bergamot FCF essential oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil, citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) oil.

free skin care · Sat Feb 18, 2006 6:45 pm

Hi Candy,

I was wondering how all of your new products have been working to keep your face hydrated during the day.

I also noticed that no one has yet mentioned the phytomer hydracontinue line of products. They are marine based, very gentle, and as far as I know don't contain any actives that would interfere with your other routine products.

What is different about these products is a patented pheohydrane ingredient and they are the most hydrating products me and my hubby have ever used. He uses the hydracontinue intense moisture cream for his eczema and I adore their handcream. To make the handcream even more loaded, I mix it with H-pur hyuralonic acid from Isomers.

If you can find someone who has a money back guarantee I hope you will be able to give these a try. You can find them on EDS and also at spas. Spas carry samples.

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