At Naturopathica, every ingredient counts. The New York based brand's products are packed with luxurious, high-quality, natural ingredients working in harmony with the skin's anti-aging process to restore healthier, younger looking skin.

As a fan and a loyal customer, I've never been disappointed in Naturopathica. The brand's high standards and commitment is evident in every product I've tried, including the Vitamin C15 Wrinkle Repair Serum. This potent daily serum is formulated to firm, brighten and protect the skin while helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Containing a powerful blend of 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E and Oat Beta Glucan, the serum helps correct skin tone and stimulate collagen production. Plus, Hyaluronic Acid adds essential moisture and helps calm irritation. So powerful, it's left my face looking brighter and more radiant in just a matter of days.

Featured Ingredients:

15% VITAMIN C (L-ASCORBIC ACID): Clinically proven to be the most effective form of Vitamin C, L-Ascorbic Acid actively stimulates collagen production to combat fine lines and wrinkles, provides strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and improves skin tone and texture.

VITAMIN E AND ERGOTHIONEINE: This powerful anti-oxidant duo enhances Vitamin C performance, boosts cellular energy and helps prevent elastin damage.

HYALURONIC ACID: Capable of holding up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, this bio-hydrator helps plump and enhance collagen production to quench dull, dehydrated skin.

OAT BETA GLUCAN: A powerful anti-inflammatory agent and cell immunity booster, it helps heal and guard skin against free radicals for healthier, younger-looking skin.

PROS: 
Firming and smoothing effect
Light texture and scent
Reduced appearance of fine lines
Contains powerful ingredients proven to be most effective
Easy to use
Well designed
Made in USA
Helps calm irritation

CONS: Can be pricy for many at $114

Value: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$$$$

Overall: 5/5

Our skin regenerates at night, and while that beauty sleep is crucial and makes so much difference, it's often not enough to make significant changes to our skin tone or help those dreaded dark spots disappear. Although most of us associate dark spots with aging, it's actually common for skin hyperpigmentation to result from sun damage (aka tanning), so it's important to avoid exposure to UV rays altogether. I keep reminding myself to apply that sunscreen before I step outside this summer!

All that sunshine - the main cause of dark spot formation. But don't despair - there is hope. With so many of us concerned over uneven skin tone, Vichy has stepped up to the game with yet another amazing product, the ProEVEN Night concentrate. 

ProEVEN Night's formula is concentrated with molecules, Vitamin C, and other ingredients to help treat visible dark spots and also prevent future spots from appearing. Use it every night as a night treatment and you'll start seeing results from the 1st morning. For me, it was subtle, but definitely felt like my skin was a lot smoother and lighter. 

PROS:

• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Paraben-free
• Formulated with Vichy Thermal Spa Water
• Fresh hydrating gel texture
• Can be used as a mask when applied in thick layer
• Exfoliates the skin
• Great for light skin tones

CONS:

• Takes a few weeks to see a difference
• Can be pricy at $49

Overall, Vichy ProEVEN Night is a promising product. After doing some research I've found other consumers who've seen amazing results. I will be patiently using this product for another month or so to see if I'll get even better results!

Value: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Performance: 4/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$$$

Overall: 4/5 

Would I use it again? YES!

I've been raving about Naturopathica for a few years now as they never disappoint. The brand is amazing at reinforcing our well being, and all the while living up to their word and commitment. During this winter, I've began using the Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream, a miracle worker for very dry and sensitive skin. It's "a nourishing, deeply moisturizing cream that contains anti-inflammatory Calendula Extract to soothe dry, sensitive skin and conditioning Borage Seed Oil to help soften the skin." My skin responded so well to Calendula, the main ingredient in this moisturizer, which happens to be a wound healing herb which contains properties to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.

Being all natural, with almost perfect consistency and texture, this cream feels just right. And while it may seem pricy for some, a very small amount goes a long way! It's truly amazing how great my skin feels the morning after. I can honestly say this is one of the best hydrating creams I've ever tried.

How to use: Gently smooth a pea size amount over face and neck using upward and outward movements. Apply morning and night over serum or after treatment for best results.

PROS:

• Beautifully designed
• Anti-inflammatory and soothing
• Natural scent with hints of lavender
• Soft, creamy texture
• Natural and Organic Cosmetic certified by ECOCERT Greenlife
• Contains high quality, natural ingredients
• Long lasting hydration
• Perfect for dry and sensitive skin

CONS: None!

Value: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$$$

Overall: 5/5 

Would I use it again? YES! And you have to try it too.

Our skin goes through dramatic changes as we age. These changes, like thinning skin and reduced production of collagen, alter our skin's surface appearance and create fine lines which eventually develop into deep wrinkles and folds. Sounds scary - and it can be - which is why now is a good time to correct such damaging changes.

Vichy's new Liftactiv Advanced Concentrate is a daily wrinkle corrector designed to visibly fill and smooth-out all wrinkles, even deep and vertical ones like frown and smile lines. The unique formula contains 0.2% pure Retinol, LR2412 (jasmonic molecule), hyaluronic acid, and other ingredients which give it anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. For the first time, Vichy created their highest concentration pure Retinol in most tolerant formula - you can use it daily on most skin types, including dry and sensitive.

After using Liftactiv for two weeks, I can definitely see a slight improvement in my skin's texture and can feel the anti-wrinkle power of the product as my skin becomes smoother. It's quite pleasant to use due to its lightweight texture, and unlike most Retinol based products, it's gentle on the skin.


HOW TO USE: Can be used daily in 3 ways, on clean face and neck:
1. Alone as daily moisturizer
2. Layered on top of your daily serum or under your daily moisturizer
3. As a localized treatment

PROS:

• Non comedogenic, Hypoallergenic & Paraben free formula
• Contains Vichy Thermal Spa Water which gives a soothing effect
• Gentle on the skin
• Product penetrates quickly
• Lightweight texture with lasting hydration
• Non greasy, non sticky, making it an excellent base for makeup
• Features look less tired
• Smoother skin
• With Anti-inflammatory Properties: Adenosine 0.1% 
• With 24h Hydration: - Hyaluronic Acid 0.2% - Glycerine 8%

CONS:
Can be pricy at $50-$55 in Drugstores across Canada.

Value: 4/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Effectiveness: 4/5
Packaging: 4/5
Price: $$$$
Overall: 4/5  Give it a try! 

How exciting! I have recently received even more amazing Naturopathica products since my last purchase. If you haven't heard of this company, Naturopathica designed certified Natural and Organic products for very sensitive skin. In the next few days, plus during the month of December, I will be testing out the following products:

Pear Fig Polishing Enzyme Peel: A nourishing mask that helps smooth and rejuvenate dry, devitalized skin. Formulated with hydrating Fig, smoothing Jojoba Beads and exfoliating Pear Puree for glowing, polished skin.

Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel: Formulated for dull or congested skin, this clarifying mask exfoliates with Pumpkin Enzymes to promote a clear and radiant complexion.

Sweet Cherry Enzyme Brightening Peel: An exfoliating mask that helps brighten and smooth sun-damaged skin. Sweet Cherry Puree is a vitamin-rich anti-inflammatory while Resveratrol helps brighten and even skin tone.

Vitamin C15 Wrinkle Repair Serum: A potent daily serum formulated to firm, brighten and protect the skin while helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A powerful blend of 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E and Oat Beta Glucan helps correct skin tone and stimulate collagen production. Hyaluronic Acid adds essential moisture and helps calm irritation.

Stay tuned for individual reviews of each product! Meanwhile, check out Naturopathica.com, and learn why it's a great brand: 

- Formulas use the best proven innovations in science and nature, including Peptides, Retinols, L-Ascorbic Acid, Matrixyl® synthe’6®, Glycolic Acids and Plant Stem Cells. 

- Naturopathica never use toxic or irritating ingredients such as sulfate detergents, PEGs, DEA, TEA, parabens, glycols or urea in any of their products.

- Certified Natural and Organic, the products are audited and certified by ECOCERT.

- Adding the ECOCERT seal to a Naturopathica product ensures that it has gone through a rigorous review process from ingredient sourcing and formulation, all the way through to manufacturing and packaging.

- All products are allergy tested to ensure that they are free of any ingredients that could harm sensitive skin.

- Every formula is developed to be as enjoyable as it is effective.

- Custom glass bottles are reusable and recyclable. 

- Tubes are made from 70% post-consumer recycled plastic. 

- Naturopathica partners with fair trade organizations and community farmers to source our ingredients.

- The products are never tested on animals. Naturopathica is a member of the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics and all products are Leaping Bunny-certified as cruelty-free.

- The brand is committed to supporting small, local farms in the USA—All Naturopathica products are made in the USA.

While I only had a chance to test out 5-7ml sized samples of Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Age-Renewal Cremes, it was just enough to last for a few months to notice any improvement. Being such a generous amount, these exclusive samples alone are worth $80. Yes, I know...it's pricy! The Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv collection is ultra-luxurious, claims to renew the skin for a smoother, younger looking complexion, and with a price tag of $125+ per product - so I was definitely hoping it would work. 

Re-Nutriv claims to use multi-benefit technology that helps dramatically reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Supposedly so potent, this creme improves cell survival and delivers exceptional anti-oxidant power. So pampering, it soothes and calms skin to protect its natural youthfulness. The formula, indeed, is outstanding for dry skin. The special molecules are designed to repair, recharge, and restore skin's already damaged appearance. 

Sadly, the majority of users reported online their disappointment in the creme, stating it certainly isn't worth the price, a rather shocking price at that! 

PROS:

• Great for dry skin
• Contains nutrients, extraordinary algae, and precious extracts
• Skin feels smoother
• Gives a glowing look

CONS:

• Very expensive 
• Poorly designed jar container - the constant dipping adds bacteria and deteriorates precious ingredients

Overall, after a few months of use my skin felt more supple and firm, however, both of the Re-Nutriv cremes are very expensive and in turn difficult to justify.  I believe there are many other products that can do a better job for a much lower price. Plus, there are better options even among Estee Lauder products.

Re-Nutriv Intensive Age-Renewal Creme Super Creme. Super Potent. $220 CAD

Re-Nutriv Intensive Age-Renewal Eye Creme $125 CAD

Value: 3/5
Quality: 4/5
Effectiveness: 3.5/5
Packaging: 2/5
Price: $$$$$

Overall: 3/5  Works very well for most skin types, but very expensive! $$$

Would I use it again? Probably not.

Not too long ago I've been introduced to one of SkinCeuticals best-selling products in the U.S. - Micro-Exfoliating Scrub with Biomedic Microbead technology for combination or oily skin. Having to wear makeup all day, plus, having oily skin is not ideal and certainly leads to clogged up pores. This mild, non-abrasive exfoliating gel designed for congested skin - such as mine - combines Diatomaceous Earth Microbeads (a naturally occurring, soft, chalk-like sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder) with cleansing and hydrating agents to gently, but effectively exfoliate dead skin cells. And as a result, this exfoliating process promotes healthy cell renewal without damaging or drying your skin. Evidently, my skin did not feel dried out nor flaky as it does from most exfoliators. Also, there are other ingredients including Glycerin and Aloe which moisturize and soothe the skin, which in turn helped my skin feel instantly smoother, refreshed and purified. It works!

USE: APPLY A SMALL AMOUNT OF SCRUB TO A DAMP FACE. GENTLY MASSAGE FOR A FULL MINUTE. RINSE THOROUGHLY WITH WATER.

PROS:

• The gentle microbeads thoroughly cleanse pores
• Highly rated 
• Promotes cell renewal 
• Leaves skin soft and polished 
• Optimal for congested and rough skin 
• Reasonably priced at $30-$34 - you only need a little!
• Soothing gel texture 
• Made from fossilized sea algae
• Dermatologist recommended
• Convenient tube packaging

CONS:

• Contains parabens 
• Not ideal for very sensitive skin

Value: 4/5
Quality: 4/5
Effectiveness: 4.5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$$

Overall: 4.5/5  Works very well for most skin types. I would recommend this to friends with oily/combination skin. 

Would I use it again? YES.

Note: SkinCeuticals is available through selected distribution channels via dispensing doctors, medical-spas and high-end spas across Canada. For store locator visit: www.skinceuticals.com/canada.

And once again, I'm up late at night, working away, sipping espresso, staring tirelessly at the screen of my smart phone, worrying that I won't get enough sleep, and yet fully aware of the fact that I'll look terrifying in the morning. The fatigue is written on my face and the lack of sleep is certainly taking a toll on my skin, but, thankfully there is hope! 

SkinCeuticals developed this deeply hydrating masque, enriched with Vitamin B5 to aid the skin in restoring a healthy appearance - exactly what my skin craved after a long restless day. The masque contains high concentrations of the infamous Hyaluronic Acid at 1% to replenish critical moisture levels depleted in dehydrated and stressed skin. The result is a much more radiant, healthy complexion.

I have used the Hydrating B5 masque for a few weeks now, at night, and twice a week. After cleansing and toning, I have applied a generous amount evenly across my face and neck, and allowed for it to absorb for 10-15 minutes. Because the instructions did not note if I had to wash it off, I have left it on overnight for ultimate results. In the morning, I have thoroughly rinsed off the masque...and Voila! there you have it - a much more energized, hydrated skin. 

PROS: 

• Ideal for all skin types, including eczema prone
• Plumping effect and a quick fix
• Weightless gel texture
• Quickly absorbing
• Softens the appearance of wrinkles
• Convenient tube packaging
• Can also be used on other dry areas such as hands, neck, chest, elbows, knees, and feet
• Non-oily

CONS: 
Can be pricy at $62 CAD or $54 USD

CLAIM:

Inspired by the award-winning Hydrating B5 Gel, this highly concentrated masque infuses dehydrated and stressed skin with optimal amounts of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to replenish depleted moisture levels.

• Contains high concentrations of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5
• Optimizes moisture infusion in targeted areas
• Improves skin's tissue repair function
• Leaves skin supple and smooth
• Ideal for all skin types

Value: 4/5
Quality: 4/5
Effectiveness: 4/5
Packaging: 4/5
Price: $$$

Overall: 4/5  I would definitely recommend this to friends with dry skin. 

Would I use it again? YES.

Note: SkinCeuticals is available through selected distribution channels via dispensing doctors, medical-spas and high-end spas across Canada. For store locator visit: www.skinceuticals.com/canada.

There are hundreds of various body butters, lotions, and cremes and yet it's becoming increasingly difficult to find the right one for my sensitive skin. After trying out even the most popular body butters, including those designed by body care giants such as Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works, I began looking for products without irritating ingredients and overpowering scents. And recently, I was given an opportunity to try body butters by Fruits & Passion, a master perfumer that offers scented body care products made with natural ingredients.

To be honest, I am very impressed. The packaging and branding is lovely, plus it smells naturally fresh and delicious. The formulas are effective and create an experience inspired by nature. I believe Fruits & Passion has some of the best body moisturizers in Canada, and I will definitely come back for more.

At this time, I am using the new 24H Moisturizing butter for the body in Ocean Flower and Grapefruit & Guava. The non-greasy and easily absorbing formulas are perfect for most skin types, especially the Ocean Flower formula as it has worked wonderfully for even the most sensitive, eczema prone skin. In fact, I have given it to my boyfriend in order to test it out and he loves it: "Smell good, and actually works!" If you have dry or itchy skin, or if you suffer with eczema you may give it a try. 

Grapefruit / Guava:

• Made in Canada 
• Enriched with shea butter, grape seed oil and coconut oils, plant based glycerin and 7 fruit extracts Creamy and non-greasy 
• Spreads and penetrates easily 
• Mineral Oil and Silicone free 
• Toning effect 
• Smells fresh and not overbearing 
• Lightly fragranced 
• Affordable

Ocean Flower: 

• Made in Canada 
• Enriched with shea butter, coconut oil, mineral water from Canada and a mineral complex 
• Softens and revitalizes skin 
• Mineral oil free 
• Rich, yet non oily leaves a protective film on skin 
• Delicate scent
• Easily absorbing
• Affordable
• Works on eczema prone skin

How to Use: Apply all over the body and massage in circular motion to aid absorption.
Where to buy: Visit www.fruits-passion.com

Value: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$

Overall: 5/5 

Would I use it again? YES.

After successfully completing the Aloe Replenishment Gel by Naturopathica, I have searched for other similar products, and even after sifting through numerous all-natural skincare listings on  Etsy, I have re-visited NATUROPATHICA – a breakthrough line of high performance skin care made with only the best natural and active ingredients that are proven effective, non-irritating and 100% good for the skin. 

A new era anti-aging skin serum, Vichy Idealia, transformed my skin to having more radiant, fresh complexion regardless of my stressful lifestyle, giving my skin a second chance!

At last! I've hit the pan, in other words, hit the bottom of the container of a product. And not just one or two, but oh so many containers. It's such a relief. Hitting pan is a term used by make-up users like myself. It is when a product starts to run out so that you can see the bottom of the container.

Yay! Well done. Finishing the products completely is a big accomplishment for makeup & beauty junkies like myself.

The List:

• Kiss My Face - Peaches and Creme Moisturizer 8% AHA (sadly, no longer available, except for the 4%)
• Joe Lip Stains in Tangerine and Lilac
• Prestige Peach Passion Lipstick
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
• TimeBalm Concealer in Lighter Than Light
• Xtension Plus Marcelle Mascara in Black
• Maybelline the Falsies Volum Express in Black Flared
• Lancome High Resolution Cream
• Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water
• Vichy Aqualia Thermal Cream
• Lancome Creme Radiance Cream to foam cleanser
• Missha M. BB Cream Vita SPF 20
• Lancome Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover - My favourite!
• Korres Yoghurt  Cream
• John Frieda Sheer Blonde Lightening Conditioner x2
• Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
• Bed Head TIGI Urban Antidotes Recovery 2 Shampoo
• OJON Full Detox with Soap Bark Tree Rub out dry cleansing spray
• Got2B Rocking It 4Ever Style Stay Encore Fresh Dry Shampoo
• Giovanni 2Chic Brazilian Keratin and Argan Oil Body Lotion
• Straight Sexy Hair Straightening Shampoo
• NYX HD Studio Photogenic Foundation in 01 Nude x2 - My favourite! 
• DiorSkin Nude in 010
• Lancome Bienfait SPF 30
• Nature's Gate Organics Oh What A Night Walnut Therapy - Amazing!
• Clinique Liquid Facial Soap
• NYX HD Photogenic Concealer
• Nutrigranics Smoothing Eye Cream by Body Shop
• Prada Candy Lotion + roller
• DKNY Be Delicious in Green Apple
• the Body Shop lip balms in Cranberry and Vanilla
• & tons of samples!

Long days at work, late night parties, all making it so easy for bacteria to spread from my hands to my face and the worst part it's that same bacteria that will cause blemishes, imperfections, and spots. Yuck!

So, what's the solution to avoid over-contamination? I have recently tried Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot Fast Acting anti-imperfection targeted care, a new product from Vichy Normaderm line for oily skin, minimizes the appearance of marks and treats the spot using hyaluronic acid barrier effect, salicylic acid and LHA anti-bacterial technology.

Vichy’s new Normaderm Hyaluspot, no matter the cause or scope of breakouts, can both prevent, and diminish blemishes.

The claim: "For the first time, Vichy has developed a “bandage effect” anti-spot treatment. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and LHA, the active ingredients work together to form an invisible protectant barrier, exfoliate dead skin cells, and act against bacteria to treat unwanted spots."

So, does it work? Absolutely! I have given this a month, and it is amazing.

Features:

• It’s small enough to fit into any purse or bag, making spot treatment on-the-go as easy as ever 
• It forms an invisible barrier, making it one of the more discreet spot-treatments on the market 
• Practical applicator = zero contamination. The product is designed so that you do not need to touch your face at all when applying it.

PROS: 

• Immediately soothes
• Users like its easy application and texture
• Non-drying, non-greasy, non-sticky, and invisible

CONS:

• A little bit pricy
• Contains fragrance

Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot (15 mL) is available in drugstores and pharmacies across Canada for $21.

Value: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 5/5
Price: $$$

Overall: 4.5/5 

Would I use it again? YES!

A must have for dry weather, Vichy Eau Thermale Thermal Spa Water spray is rich in 15 rare minerals, 100% pure, and paraben-free. The spray is packed with iron, potassium, calcium, manganese, silicon, copper... Vichy Thermal Spa Water soothes and protects sensitive skin against the irritations of everyday life. This product is great pick-me-up after a long day at work - I happen to use it regularly after purchasing it a few weeks ago. The verdict? I'm surprisingly impressed at how well it works.

Vichy Thermal Spa Water is a completely natural, unique ingredient recognized and used in pharmacology for its soothing, fortifying, and regenerative properties.

Vichy's Commitment:
- Hypoallergenic.
- Fragrance-free.
- No preservatives.

How to Use:
Use on perfectly cleansed skin before applying your usual skincare products.
1. Hold bottle 30 cm away from your face, then mist in a circular motion.
2. Leave on for a few seconds. Dry by gently blotting with a tissue.
Can also be used to refine makeup, and can be applied as many times as desired during the day.

Makeupalley.com Review:

• Average Rating: 4.1
• 80% would buy again
• Package Quality: 3.9
• Price: $$$

PROS

• helps calm sensitive and dehydrated skin
• contains minerals
• works perfectly as a makeup setting spray
• price is relatively cheaper compared to La Roche Posay & Avene
• convenient spray bottle

CONS

• some may not experience any changes right away

Value: 4.5/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 4/5
Price: $$

Overall: 4.5/5 

Would I use it again? YES!

In the last month or so I have hit the pan too many times. Hurray! It felt so good to finally be done with many of the products below. Such a relief, for I tend to purchase much more than I need or require. 10 mascaras? Really? But at least, I can say goodbye to DiorShow. I've used it for longer than I should have. Remember the 6 month rule? Ah, finally!

And of course, here is the very long list. Enjoy.

From choosing a moisturizing anti-aging cream to investing in laser resurfacing, follow these tips to keep your skin looking young this winter.

Cold, dry weather can wreak havoc on your skin. In fact, you might feel like your skin is aging over night as wrinkles, crow’s feet and other imperfections seem more pronounced. Fight back with a winter antiaging strategy that keeps your skin soft and supple. 

Get extra moisture

There’s no doubt about it – the winter air dries out your skin. Not only are you battling cold air outside, you’re also fighting the dry air inside that can rob skin of its natural water and oil levels. To combat the dryness, choose a creamy face wash instead of a foaming formula. Make sure you use a moisturizing face cream after washing. You may need to choose a stronger anti-aging cream to use in the winter than you do in the summer.

Protect your skin

While the lack of sunshine would suggest otherwise, sunscreen is still essential to skin protection in the winter. The sun can damage your skin – increasing wrinkles and age spots – just as badly in the winter as it can in the summer. Your daily moisturizing face cream should contain an SPF of at least 15. Apply this to your face and neck. If you are going to be exposed to the elements for long periods of time, you may need to use traditional sunblock as well. Keep in mind that the snow can reflect the sun’s rays, so daytime skiing trips and sledding adventures can make you especially prone to sunburned skin. In addition, be careful not to shower with water that is too hot. While a steaming shower seems to erase the bone chilling cold, it an also strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm showers and baths instead or you’ll end up aiding the aging process.

Exfoliate 
Exfoliating can give your skin a healthy glow. That’s because exfoliating removes dead skin cells and leaves behind an even tone. It can also help promote the growth of new cells. Choose an exfoliator with round beads. Granules should be avoided since they can scratch and irritate skin. Be careful not to exfoliate too often – once a week is optimal for best results.

Try New Treatments
The winter may also be an ideal time to try laser resurfacing. The procedure works by sending a beam of concentrated light into the skin to remove damaged cells and promote the growth of new skin cells and collagen. Laser resurfacing can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It also gives your skin a more even, tighter look. Is laser resurfacing safe? Overall, the side effects are minor and include changes in skin’s pigment, burns, scars and bacterial infections, though most users experience little to no side effects. Laser resurfacing can be done by a professional or in the privacy of your own bathroom with an at-home system. You can also check to see if the laser you’ll be using has been approved by Health Canada as a safe and effective product.

Be good to your skin this winter
Giving your skin the royal treatment all winter long will keep it looking soft and supple. The more you care for your skin, the better chance you have of keeping the signs of aging – wrinkles, crow’s feet, age spots – at bay.

Sponsored content was created and provided by Tria Beauty

I've been using Avene Thermal Spring Water for about 3-4 months before I ran out. It's refreshing during summer months, and perfect to use on cold/dry winter days. The product claims to soothe, soften, and restore skin's natural balance: "Clinically proven by over 300 studies to calm, soothe and soften the skin.  Used since 1743 in the Hydrotherapy Center to treat serious dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema." The website even offers an option to view clinical data, and offers a list of uses:

Dermatological care: Post surgery, Post procedure, Redness-prone skin / inflammation, Keratosis-prone, scaly skin Eczema / atopic dermatitis, Allergic reactions / sensitive skin / irritation,  Burning / stinging / itching / tingling Daily care: After cleansing, After shaving/after waxing,  After exercise,  During travel,  Sunburn, burns, Diaper rash,  To set makeup

One of the best uses for the Avene thermal water is definitely after exercise. I spray it a few times on my skin, and wait 2-3 minutes to air dry. It then helps my skin feel much more hydrated and fresh.

Here is a list of benefits from Avene official website:

• Calms, soothes and softens
• Rich in silicate and trace elements
• Low salt mineral content does not dry out the skin
• pH 7.5 – perfect balance of anions and cations
• Bottled directly from the source – bacteriologically pure
• Preservative-free
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

And while it may feel like simply water in a can, the tap water we use to wash our face is not all that great for us. The running water often contains skin drying chemicals and chlorine. Many of us get that tight feeling after washing our faces with regular water. Avene helps to relieve that drying effect of regular water. It's a great toner too.

PROS:

• Perfect for refreshing my face during the day
• Makes powder foundation look less powdery
• Great for toning before makeup application
• Gentle, without perfume
• Works well for sensitive and oily skin
• Hydrating
• Easy to use
• High ratings on makeupalley.com : 4.2/5

CONS:

• Would be better if it cost less

From my experience, Avene Thermal Spring Water spray definitely works, and I will repurchase it again and again. Perhaps, I will let my boyfriend try it out next as he suffers from severe eczema. 

Value: 4.5/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Performance: 5/5
Packaging: 4/5
Price: $$

Overall: 4.5/5 

Would I use it again? YES!

I’ve been regularly hitting the pan, in other words, finishing up the products. In the last few months, I have finally completed quite a few. It feels rewarding to be able to finish. Finally! I’m glad I rarely throw out beauty items into the garbage, unless of course, it’s something that absolutely has to be thrown out. Take a look at the full list:

• Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash: 4/5 - skin feels smoother
• Sexy Hair Curly Sexy Hair Shampoo: 4/5 - perfect for wavy hair
• Philosophy Holiday Lights Aglow Shampoo and Body Wash: 3/5 - smells great, but somewhat drying and pricey, although, perfect for a bubble bath
• Befine Skin Care line - provided by GlossyBox: 5/5 - excellent quality, natural, leaves skin glowing. I may purchase full size products, but it's hard to find, and their online assortment seems limited. 
• Clarks Botanicals - from Glymm bag: 4/5 - a very good resurfacing moisturizer, but very expensive at full price
• Herbaflor Organic RoseHip Oil: 4/5 - the oil is quickly absorbant, nourishing, prevents skin damage, and smoothes out wrinkles
• Lancome Bienfait Multi-Vital Moisturizing Cream: 4/5 - affordable, high quality, non-greasy cream that  is perfect for daily use - with spf 30
• Joico K-PAK Revitaluxe: 3/5 - it's OK, I didn't find it all that great.
• Cyberderm Moisturizer Samples from Glymm: 4/5 These are very potent and creamy, and seem like a good investment in the future.
• Got2B Got 2 Be 2 Sexy Voluptuous Volume Mousse: 3/5 Works well, but feels somewhat sticky
• John Frieda SheerBlonde Lightening Conditioner: 5/5 This is my favourite conditioner. It leaves my hair feeling smooth and silky, and makes the blonde highlights much brighter. 
• Naked Princess - Naked Shine Luscious Lip Gloss in Barely Nude - this was such a small sample from Glymm that I could barely notice a difference 
• Rimmel Hide the Blemish Concealer in Ivory 001: 4/5, full Review coming soon
• Principessa - Bacio Me Lip Balm: Click Here for Review
• Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner: 4/5 Great product for the price
• Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment: 5/5 Amazing!
• Macadamia Healing Oil Spray: 4/5 Amazing! full reviews to come
• Vitamine & Sea Clay Mask: 3/5 - felt like any other clay mask 
• The Body Shop Natrulift Firming Day Cream with organic pomegranate: 3.5/5 Nothing special
• Tom Ford Lavender Palm: 2/5 Smells like soap!
• Atelier Cologne Trefle Pur: 4/5 Love it!
• Olay Regenerist Moisturizer: 3/5 OK, but not great. Will not buy again.
• Social Butterfly Hair Perfume: 3/5 Convenient to have in case of emergency hair day
• CK One Eau De Toilette
• Dove Damage Therapy Burst Conditioner
• John Frieda Frizz Ease Sheet Solution Lightweight Frizz Control
• Olive Oil Replenishing Conditioner
• Sebastian Volupt Shampoo: 4.5/5 Love, love love it! This is perfect for my hair, and I don't have to wash it as often. 
• Mai Couture Foundation Papier: 3/5 I like the idea, but it needs something more
• Got2B Kinky Curling Mousse: 4/5 I love most products by Got2B. They are incredibly affordable and work very well. This one was no exception. 
• Victoria's Secret Island Waters Coconut Water & Pineapple Moisturizing Cream: 3.5/5 The scent is too strong, and I may have developed allergies. 
• Amir Argan Oil Moisturizing Conditioner: 2/5 Did absolutely nothing and it's quite pricey!