I'm Back!!

After taking a long break from Blogging, I'm back!! So much has happened: I went to Hawaii then moved in with M, laboured, delivered, and life changed in so many ways. It's daunting to even think about describing the day Baby was born, a diagnosis of Down Syndrome, the emotions, the pain, the anxiety, a most incredible love. After almost 2 years, I'm still fragile and not ready... But I think if I start light, start writing again, it'll come out slowly.

In the spirit of starting light, let's talk beauty! Though I've changed a lot after becoming a mom, I'm still pretty fancy when it comes to skin care. My current beauty regimen, inspired by the 10 step Korean skin care routine, goes something like this:

Step 1: Cleanse
I'm not really picky when it comes to washing my face, just as long as the product I'm using is not soap. I'm currently alternating between Yves Rocher's Serum Vegetal (with anti-wrinkle action from the Ice Plant!) and Kiel's* Ultra Facial Cleanser.

Step 2: Toner
Essential step for restoring skin's PH balance after washing with water. I use Physiodermie's Stabilizing Lotion. Alcohol free, soothing, and skin is ready to absorb!

Step 3: Essence 
This is where things get exciting! Considered the most important step in Korean beauty, the essence applies a like a serum but feels as light as a toner. Thanks to its Betula-Alba juice, Forever Bright Birch from HolikaHolika makes my skin smooth and clear like promised.

Step 4: Antioxidant Protection
Skin Medica's Vitamin C+E Complex isn't part of the Korean regimen but something I've recently discovered. A bit pricey but it's supposed to fight free radicals, promote cell renewal and increase collagen!

Step 5: Moisturizer
Prime Youth Snail Emulsion is another HolikaHolika Korean product that I love!! It contains ginseng, Canadian Willowherb and 45% snail slime (what snails produce to selfheal and is supposed to help with dullness, scars, and wrinkles). It's light, hydrating and no, it's not slimy.

Step 6: Eye Cream
I use Creme Prodigieuse by Nuxe. With Blue Everlasting Flower Extract is supposed to have anti-aging and anti-puffiness properties... It smells great too!

Step 7: Night Cream
Cremorlab's Smooth Pudding is the best night cream I have ever tried! It's full of vitamins and special Korean ingredients to help fight the signs of aging and the puddingy texture does not disappoint!

With my daily spritz of Caudalie's Beauty Elixir, and the occasional exfoliation, I'm pretty darn close to 10 steps!! It seems like a lot of work but it's mostly a lot of money... It's worth it though! My skin is bright and dewy and yes, I am that superficial. 

*Not buying any new Kiel's products after finding out that they test on animals.