Love, Indus

Press Sample
My skin has taken a beating this past year between wearing masks, different diet, and of course, being sick. When Love, Indus reached out to try their Amrutini Precious Potion Vital Cream, I was excited to see how it would work for me. The founder, Surbhee Grover incorporated her rich Indian heritage with the energy of her newfound New York home.

PAYOT Paris Hydra 24+ Essence

Press Sample
How's your skin doing? This has been a good time for me to try out new products to see what makes it in my ultimate daily routine and today's brand may be new to me but isn't new on the market. For nearly 100 years, PAYOT Paris has been dedicated exclusively to skincare. The founder, Nadia Payot was not only the first female doctor of her generation but also a visionary of skincare products.

Yangu Beauty Bright Eyes Cream

Press Sample
During this time of self-isolation, I've really wanted to focus on my skin. We're talking skincare here folks. Yangu Beauty had reached out with their Bright Eyes Cream which is a hydrating, anti-inflammatory eye cream.

Skinn by Dimitri James Hand Restore

Press Sample
As I've been mentioning, I'm going through a Purge, but it's not just limited to my nail polish. After my parents passed away, I realized that I was hoarding four generations of items in my house and therefore, I've been working to get down to a more manageable lifestyle. While clearing out my living room, I came across this bottle from Skinn Cosmetics by Dimitri James called Hand Restore.

Ola Mana Moisturizer

Press Sample
I'm all about finding new ways to love my skin so when Ola Hawaiian Skin Care reached out, I jumped on board. The brand is an entire Tropical Apothecary with bath & body products, hair care, a wellness line and an "after sun" care line. The Hawaiian Skin Care line contains 5 products starting with a mask, cleanser, toner and then adding a serum to the moisturizer but today I just have the Mana Moisturizer to review.

Biorè Citrus Crush Deep Cleansing Pore Strips

Press Sample
It's been years since I've tried a Biorè strip - I remember the satisfaction of peeling the strip off and seeing all the unclogged pores. And by years I mean close to 20. Biorè has been a staple in the pore strip game and now as kids are getting ready to go back to school, Biorè is there to help them free their pores.

LifeDNA Skincare

Press Sample/Affiliate Link
Back in December, a new skincare called LifeDNA reached out to me about their line that recently launched. I was interested because since I've hit 30 a few years ago, my skin has been a complete mystery to me. I thought I had oily skin but my skin is actually quite dry, needs to be exfoliated often and I "most likely" have rosacea. Yes, that was the diagnosis from a dermatologist. (And yes, I'm looking for a second opinion.)

Father's Day Gifts

Press Sample 

I am habitually late. The only thing I was on time for was my own birth, and that's only because the doctor pulled me a month early. Otherwise, I'm a lost cause.  There are some things I'll be on time for - massages... I was on time for my wedding... dessert. Anyway.
I was a bit at a loss at what to get Mr. PG for Father's Day. Being a beauty blogger, you'd think I'd have some idea. It was through blogging that I learned about a sake-infused shave cream that Mr. PG was pretty obsessed with for a year. 
When I got this fantastic package in the mail last month, I was excited to give it to him for Father's Day. Instead, however, he saw it and ran away with it. Literally.
First off, it came in a camo toiletry bag "Chapter" by Herschel Supply Company. Mr. PG is former Navy, current Navy Reserves, so if it's camo, it's his. He didn't even wait to look inside and just "Ooh mine!" Now he knows how I feel when I see polish. You can get one at Nordstrom here.
Inside was this awesome treasure trove of items. Now, yes, Father's Day was yesterday, but if you're like me either you didn't get your gift out on time OR (and I swear this isn't my fault) if you're like Amazon, you didn't mail my gift out to my father-in-law. Do you see the side eye I'm giving you? (True story, I purchased through Amazon on the 10th with 2-day shipping, and it still hasn't arrived.)
SO don't wait any longer and go search for the following items to make the father in your life feel and smell good. It's so much better than another tie.

American Crew Alternator is a styling and finishing spray that uses polymer based technology for all-day control while allowing the hair to remain flexible for styling and adjusting. The unique formulation of Alternator enables men to reshape their style and control their image. Unlike gels that can dry crunchy or tacky, Alternator is a pliable product that does not dry hard. Alternator provides a natural look with medium hold and medium shine. Suitable for everyday use and washes out easily. 3.3oz/100ml: $14.95 

American Crew Post-Shave Cooling Lotion is a dual-action formula that works as a lightweight moisturizer and calming aftershave. A blend of extracts promotes healing and healthy, balanced skin, while essential fatty acids help regulate sebum production. Active minerals inhibit inflammation and soothe the skin post-shave. Antioxidants in Post-Shave Cooling Lotion work to provide a barrier for skin against environmental stressors such as pollution and harsh winds. Post-Shave Cooling Lotion works well for all skin and beard types. Suitable for everyday use. 4.2oz/125ml: $9.95

CND Cucumber Heel Therapy is an intense, refreshing moisturizing complex to help heal and repair dry, cracked skin on heels, as well as knees, elbows and other areas prone to roughness. Thoroughly rub a dime-sized amount into the heels and other areas that are in need of intense moisture.  2.6 oz jar (US$15.50/Canada $18.80) or 15 oz jar (US $45.50/Canada $54.90)

SOLAROIL™ A “Manicure-In-A-Bottle.” A cuticle and nail oil made from an exclusive blend of four naturally light oils which penetrate the skin’s pores while sealing in valuable moisture. Massage into nail and cuticle area daily. SolarOil™ can also be applied directly to rough skin on knees, elbows and feet or poured into a hot bath for all-over body moisturizing. 1/4 oz. bottle (US $7.00/Canada $9.10) or 1/2 oz. bottle (US $11.00/Canada $14.30).

Thanks again to the lovely ladies at Rpr who helped hook me up for Father's Day. Mr PG thanks you too!

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Reviva Labs Vitamin E Oil Stick

Press Sample

Reviva Labs is a skin care company that has been in the business for over 40 years and has been working hard to produce all natural skin-care products that will leave your skin healthier and more youthful looking.  I received a gift box with several products including their Spider Vein and Rosacea Day Cream and their Tan Without Sun Face & Body Milk but what I really liked was this Vitamin E Oil Stick.

It's packaged like a tube of lipstick but don't been fooled - this isn't just for lips. In fact, I used it more for my cuticles and on a rough patch of skin on my elbow. The stick is soft being that it's a beeswax base with soy, Vitamin E and allantoin, so don't push too hard.  It also has SPF #15 sun protection as well.

The best part is the price point - $4! That's less than a tube of lipstick. It's great to stick in my purse and use in place of cuticle oil or even as lipgloss when I want softness without color.

Reviva Labs [Website | Facebook | Twitter] can be purchased online or in professional salons.

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

COOLA Classic Sport SPF 30 Unscented Spray

Press Sample

Yesterday was soap, today is sunscreen?! Skin care is actually really important, especially when you live in a place where you have triple digits daily. I've been running my a/c since JANUARY. Blah.

COOLA is a new brand to me - it's an organic line of suncare products that are supposed to withstand even the sweatiest of summer days. I received the Sport SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Spray. Being that it's only SPF 30, you need to reapply about once every 40 minutes. The cool stuff includes that 70% of this sunscreen is organic ingredients and the SPF is Broad Spectrum meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Downsides - it's not cheap. You're going to pay $32 for just 6 fl oz/180 mL. The good news is that it does apply well and being it's unscented, it's great for those with sensitive noses.

The spray immediately attaches to the skin and leaves you protected without feeling greasy or oily.

It's nice to throw into the beach bag for the day but for my daily usage, I'd need something with a higher SPF and I do prefer a cream over a spray. Sprays can be great for kids though - always on the go!

COOLA [Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest] can be found be purchased on their website or you can use their store locator for in stores or other etailer locations.

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Tweezerman Print for Spring

Press Sample

I became a Tweezerman Ambassador in April 2012 but I've been a fan of Tweezerman for over 15 years!  When I a teenager, I was allowed to wax my eyebrows, but I had to keep up between waxings and tried using some regular old tweezers from our medicine cabinet. Bad idea.  I went to Sally Beauty Supply one day and picked up a pair of Tweezerman and never looked back.  Well, I did GO back because my first pair got dropped and chipped the tip.  Since then, I've purchased several Tweezerman products but I had no idea that their line included mirrors and more!

This spring, Tweezerman came out with the Mix 'N Match Runway Prints Collection which includes the Mix 'N Match Runway Prints Unbreakable Mirrors in pink/purple and blue/green, the Mix 'N Match Runway Prints Filemates (100/180 grit) in pink or blue and the Mix 'N Match Runway Prints SoleMates in pink. The SoleMates is two expert tools that fit together for clean compact storage - the stainless steel Micro-File effortlessly removes dead skin and reduces calluses and the Finishing File buffs skin to touchably, soft smoothness.

I really like the mirror's size - it's about the size of a deck of cards.

Mix 'N Match Runway Prints Unbreakable Mirror: $12.50

Mix 'N Match Runway Prints Filemates: $5.00

Mix 'N Match Runway Prints SoleMates: $22.00

Exclusively sold at Sephora.

Additionally, Tweezerman came out with their new Striped Mini Slant Tweezers.

These tweezers are miniature versions of the Tweezerman's award winning Slant Tweezer - perfectly aligned, hand filed precision tips that grab every hair. I do with they came with a carrying case because I'm scared of chipping the tips.  It's about the length of my pointer finger. They are also exclusively sold at Sephora for $15.00.

Tweezerman [Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest | Instagram] products are sold through professional beauty suppliers as well as top cosmetic and department stores, chain drug stores, and specialty shops. 

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Epsom Salt - Inexpensive Beauty Tips

Photo Courtesy of EMA

Randomly I get press releases from time to time that may, or may not, be relevant to PolishGalore.  I've gotten pitches about the "faulty nature of the TSA" and "how to tip" and while I didn't go Bloggess on them and Wil Wheaten their pitch, it did make me laugh a bit.  However, when I got this email about Epsom salt, I giggled at first, but then I actually read it.  My family has used Epsom salt in the bathtub for years but only for sore muscles (my dad was a college football star back in the day).  I've also used some of it in my son's bath that was scented with lavender to help him sleep.  Granted, it kind of backfired on me when he decided to DRINK his bathwater... Epsom salt can help constipation - I'll leave it at that.

Anyway - here are a few quick down and not-so-dirty (hah) tips on how you can use Epsom salt in your beauty routine.  I really want to test out the first one - my face has been crazy this past month.  Please enjoy.

Some people may remember Epsom salt only as something their grandparents kept in the medicine cabinet, but many experts use Epsom salt to look and feel better (http://www.goop.com/newsletter/33/en), it leaves your skin radiant and glowing and you can find some in your local pharmacy or supermarket for just a few dollars.

You can learn more at www.facebook.com/epsomsalt or www.epsomsaltcouncil.org.

Tips include:

• Glowing skin exfoliating treatment: Mix 2 cups of Epsom Salt with 1/4 cup of petroleum jelly and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Use the mixture to gently scrub away dry skin patches.
• Microdermabrasion Facial: Mix 1/2 TSP of Epsom Salt into cleansing cream for a deep-pore cleansing. Massage on skin. Rinse with cool water. Pat dry.
• Bathtime Bliss: Add two cups of Epsom Salt to the water in a standard-sized bathtub; soak for at least 12 minutes, three times weekly. For an extra treat, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for a refreshing scent.
• Pedicure Perfection: Dissolve a half cup of Epsom Salt into two quarts of warm water. Pour the water into a container and soak your bare feet for fifteen to twenty minutes. For an extra treat, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for a refreshing scent. Massage the entire foot with Epsom Salt concentrating on the heels and ankles to remove any dry, rough spots. Then, rinse your feet off with clean tap water and dry them thoroughly.
•  Stress relieving soak: Add two cups of Epsom Salt to the water in a standard-sized bathtub; soak for at least 12 minutes, three times weekly. For an extra treat, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for a refreshing scent.

Algenist Firming & Lifting Intensive Mask

Now, I talked about the Algenist line all the way back in February (holy cow), and finally, I'm letting you know Does It Work?  I got to try the Firming & Lifting Intensive Mask, a 2.7 fl. oz tube of gel that retails for $52.  The ingredients include alguronic acid, propeptide3, jojoba, green tea & vitamin E and is supposed to restore your skin's elasticity, structure and suppleness.  Now I'm not even 30 yet, but I do have some sagging skin around my eyes and as I've gained weight, my cheeks tend to be a little more puffy but otherwise I have some pretty decent skin.


For this mask, you are to apply an even layer to clean, dry skin avoiding the eyes.  Leave on for 10 minutes and then remove using warm water.  Apply once or twice a week.


Now, considering that the system's claim is better skin in 10 days, I did not see results in 10 days of my mask, considering that's only 2 applications.  Instead, I applied once weekly for 2 months (March and April) and then let my skin breathe for a month (May).  This is a downside of testing out skin care products that I've found as a blogger... how do you accurately tell what's going on with your skin?  I'm not a dermatologist, so please note all the opinions in this review, are my own.

So as you can see above, the tube is a pretty good size for the price, and you don't need a lot to cover your face (always a good thing)!  The gel looks like coffee creamer in color and appears to be a thick gel.  I'm pleased to say it was not greasy or oily feeling.

How flattering is this yo?  So here I am with the mask applied.  Once on the skin, the gel is absolutely colorless.  You can see on my right side that I have a few blemishes and overall my skin is a bit red.  My skin has always been "a bit red" but my dermatologist couldn't determine if it was rosacea or not.  (To be honest, I'm looking for a new dermatologist as well).  Now the good about this mask is that it doesn't dry on your face like other face masks I've used, where it's dry and crusty and the mask cracks on your face.  Instead, it just dries clear and it did take a bit of rubbing to get it all off (just splashing with warm water did nothing for me).  I didn't notice any side effects or issues with my skin while using this product.  The blemishes on my face have cleared up, and have stayed cleared up even with discontinuing the product.  Now if that's a cause of the product or anything else, I don't know.  I can't tell any difference in the firmness of my skin and since it wasn't to be used on the eyes, my baggy eye lids and bags under my eyes are still there (darn).


Would I buy this again?  Because $50 is way out of my current price range, the answer is no.  I would love Algenist to come out with a smaller trial kit of all 3 items, maybe a week's worth?  This way people can test the whole system and see if it really works for them.  Only having one product gives me a bit of a disadvantage when it's the whole system that really treats your skin.  Edit:  Hah, so now they DO offer a "trial" set for $65.  Now THIS I think is worth it.


As far as masks, I love that it's a clear, odorless gel but on the other hand, it's hard to tell if you missed a spot on your skin.


Algenist Firming & Lifting Intensive Mask ($52) can be purchased at Sephora.

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Shea Terra Organics Rose Hips & Pink Clay Facial Cleansing Bar

Have you heard of Shea Terra yet?  I was first introduced to this brand last summer but am just now getting around to seriously trying the Rose Hips & Pink Clay Facial Cleansing Bar  (4.5 oz for $8.00).  You can read all about Shea Terra's Legacy here, as it's full of information including how their company helps Africans sustain their environments and families.  Here's shots of the other sides of the box.

Very good for those with sensitive skin (like myself).

I love the smell of rose!

A little more information on rose hips and pink clay.

The tops of the soap are shaped almost like a rocky plateau.


Finally here is the bar itself:

Now, on Shea Terra's website, the bar is all pink, not half pink/half brown like my bar.  I think mine may have dried out from sitting in my house for 6+ months.


So how does it work?  This bar is to be used once daily and is best used before bed.  Lather the bar in your hands and then massage the lather into your face with your fingers.  Rinse off well.  Shea Terra recommends you following it up with their Rose Water Facial Tone and a facial oil or cream but I just used the bar alone.  The lathering is good - not thick but the soap feels cooling against my skin.  It washes away clean without any heavy feeling on the skin and there is a slight rose smell that lingers.  I didn't notice any issues with irritation or any additional break outs or clogged skin which is always a plus.  Overall - I'm very pleased!


Shea Terra may be purchased on their website or by calling (+1) 877.427.6627 (M-F 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. EST). You can Like them on Facebook & follow them on Twitter.  They constantly have giveaways on their Facebook and occasionally post coupons on their Twitter page.


Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

PMD Regeneration System

Remember my review on the PMD microdermabrasion system?  Well, now I've been given the opportunity to try the PMD Regeneration System starter kit (retail $39.95 USD).  This is a 4 step system to be used in combination with the PMD microderm tool to help maximize the effectiveness of this system.


I'll be honest, microdermabrasion is a bit rough on my skin.  As I have said before on my blog, I have sensitive skin.  I decided to do a little photo documentation, so you can see what I mean.


First off, here's what you need.

Hello random swollen foot of mine!  Anyway, the microderm tool of course was provided to me earlier, but the Starter Kit has an Advanced Soothing Cleanser (60 ml), a Calming Neuro Neutralizer Toner (60 ml) and a Professional Recovery Moisturizer (15 ml).  You can apply the products with a cotton pad or your fingers.


First, you need to properly use your microderm tool on your face.  Want to see how red it leaves me? 

Lobster!  The boyfriend has been teasing me with how red my face is.  Oddly enough, I did experience more bumps during the month I used my tool (once a week).

Granted, my face has been going crazy lately with stress and dry weather, but still.  I'm only human!


So step 1 is using your microderm tool, step 2 is the cleanser.  It's a slightly thick clear serum, almost the consistency of aloe vera but without a sticky after feel, and no fragrance.


Step 3 is the toner.  It's a clear liquid that doesn't have much of a smell.  While most of it will absorb into your skin, you can wipe any excess off with a clean cloth.

The final step is the moisturizer.  This does have a fragrance to it, that isn't quite medicinal but is unlike any perfumed moisturizer I've ever tried.  It's not unpleasant, but it's not my favorite either.  It almost reminds me of dairy.


While the tool is used once a week, the products may be used both in your morning and evening routine.  The cleanser helps to remove dirt, make up, oils and other impurities.  The toner helps balance your skin's pH as well as preserve your natural oils.  The moisturizer is the awesome stuff - I could bore you with details but the part you probably want to hear is it increases Catalase stimulation over 300% and Collagen expression 164% strengthening tissue and elastins for more vibrant younger looking skin.


So, did it work?  Well you saw my before picture - here's what my skin looks like after applying.

Still red, but not as bad.  My face calmed down and definitely felt better.  Over the month, I did have less breakouts and I was complimented more on my skin than normal.  I have to get into a better habit of moisturizing, but it's great to have products formulated to my microdermabrasion system.  

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Dermelect Resilient Stem Cell Regenerating Treatment

I had posted earlier this month about the Dermelect Skin Regenerating System and was given the opportunity to review the Resilient Stem Cell Regenerating Treatment.  This is supposed to "boost epidermal regeneration while reversing damage by free radial agents.  The treatment leaves skin looking rested and supple."  You are supposed to put it on your clean face twice daily "in a gentle circular motion".  I normally forgot that part and just smoothed it into my skin.


The key ingredients in this product are Alp Rose (Plant) Stem Cell, AHA and Mushroom Extract.  The Alp Rose (Plant) Stem Cells are extracted from the Swiss Alpine Rose.  AHA is derived from fruit acids and helps exfoliate and moisture the top layers of the skin.  The mushroom extract is an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce skin irritation and can impact the appearance of fine lines and collagen production.


A little background on the Alpine Rose:  "The Alpine Rose: Defying the odds, the Swiss Alpine Rose is an anomaly that grows remarkably beautiful while being exposed to the most unfavorable of conditions: mile high altitude, extreme dryness, severe cold and an intense sun/UV index. Usually, roses are known to oxidize quickly once picked and exposed to the environment. The Alpine Rose has an amazing extended life span of up to 100 years. The key to its unlikely longevity lays chiefly in its unusually resilient stem cells."  (Information from Dermelect's website.)

Even though there is only one once of product, I found it has lasted quite well.  I used this product twice a day for two weeks and still have a considerable amount left.  It does smell like dried roses, a smell I personally love, but isn't overbearing.  The cream does dry quickly into your skin without leaving a greasy or oily film behind.  I have normal to dry skin, and having a moisturizer in my life is a must.


Did my skin look "well rested and supple"? Well it didn't look any worse.  I haven't had an issue with fine lines yet, so I didn't have a need for improvement in that area.  It did help having a moisturizer twice daily during these winter months - my skin didn't flake or peel like normal.  I also did not have any breakouts during my 2 week trial.  My skin is normally pretty much acne-free already - but it's good to know that I didn't experience any issues.


Here are some images of the box.

Dermelect Resilient Stem Cell Regenerating Treatment sells for $79.00 for 1 oz.  Dermelect is shipping this item for free.  You can also purchase the entire Skin Regenerating System for $159, also on their website.

Dermelect Cosmeceuticals products are available on their website [official website].  You can like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.

Dermelect - Skin Regenerating System

Especially with winter approaching, I'm looking for ways to keep my skin looking healthy and feeling healthy.  Please enjoy the following release from Dermelect!

The Dermelect Cosmeceuticals’ Skin Regenerating System as a gift idea for the favorite woman in your life. This is a three-step system that utilizes the revolutionary ingredient, Alpine Rose Stem Cells, to protect skin against free radicals, improve the complexion and assist with signs of aging.

Skin Regenerating System

·         Dermelect’s three-step skincare system utilizes the stem cells of the alpine rose to increase skin’s cellular turnover while protecting it from oxidative stress and harmful free-radicals.

·         Contains key ingredients of Alpine Rose, EcoSkin, Vitamin C, AHA, Mushroom and Seaweed Extracts.

·         Available for $159.00 ($208 total value) on www.dermelect.com.

·         Packaged with the signature Dermelect quilted clutch, the seasonal set includes:

Dermelect Resurface Stem Cell Reconstructing Serum protects and helps regenerate skin stem cell vitality while improving the skin barrier function and preventing and reducing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

Dermelect Resilient Stem Cell Regenerating Treatment boosts epidermal regeneration while reversing damage by free radial agents.  The treatment leaves skin looking rested and supple.

Dermelect Resurgent Stem Cell Firming Activator acts as a finishing application to reinforce stem cell protection and resurgence of youthful looking skin tissue while further preventing free radical damage.

PMD Review

So a little deviant posting today - skincare!


Ever since Groupon and Living Social have come on the scene, one deal I see constantly is the microdermabrasion treatment, normally offered anywhere from $60-$200 (and that's AFTER the deal pricing!). I really don't know much about microdermabrasion other than hearing it on beauty shows (anyone else remember when ABC's Extreme Makeover was for PEOPLE and not homes?) and sometimes seeing a listing in the newspaper.  I live in a relatively small town and the nearest place for skincare services like that are at least an hour north or two hours south of where I'm located.

Image from SkinCareRx

When I was given the opportunity to test out the PMD - Personal Microderm System from SkinCareRx, I jumped at the chance.  The price for this system is $179 and it ships same business day.  The box contains the PMD, 5 discs (2 green for coarse removal and 3 blue for light removal), the power cord, 1 facial cap, 1 body cap and a reusable filter (mine was black not white).  Also included was an instructional DVD which was about 8 minutes long and was more helpful to me than reading the included pamphlet.  I'm a very visual learner, so it was great to see someone physically sticking this on their face and pulling it across.


Let's be honest, I was super nervous when I got this thing.  All I knew is that it was a rotating disc that was going to be grinding at my skin.  The actual terms are "smoothing away dead skin cells" (and I had some of them, for real) and this wand also diminishes age spots.  I don't have any visible age spots right now (I am only 27), but it's nice to know that I could use this for that purpose later.


I followed the directions (ha, this is rare for me) and washed my face and pulled back my hair.  I decided to use the large blue disc as I was just going to try my face.  I have fat cheeks so like the DVD showed, I held my skin taunt between my fingers and went from down to up my cheek in vertical lines, never going higher than my cheekbones.  On my chin, I went from left to right, and then on my forehead I did vertical lines again.  I actually went over my whole face a second time because I wasn't sure I did it right the first time.  You have to hold the wand perpendicular to your face so it "suctions" on there.  You'll hear it if you don't have enough suction - just like a vacuum cleaner.


After I did this, I washed my face again and smoothed on the M2 Skin Recover Moisturizer ($32.50 for 1.7 fl oz) and M2 Skin Refinish ($44.50 for 1.7 fl oz) samples that were included with my PMD.  I only used a pea size amount of both and that well covered over my face.  The Moisturizer felt thick without feeling greasy but the Skin Refinish flat out BURNED for a few minutes.  It does have both mandelic and malic acid which is why my face was on fire, but it went away pretty fast.  I do have sensitive skin and to the best of my knowledge - rosacea.  I have seen a dermatologist who was really indecisive and so I never went back.  (He's not sure if I had ANYTHING - he just prescribed me $300 shampoo and left the room but that's another story).


I let my face sit for a few hours while I got some work done, and then finally touched to see if I felt a difference.  My face did feel softer, so I went to go look.  Parts of my cheeks were noticeably white instead of pink (this is awesome) and I have a scar on my left cheek that I felt was fainter (it's from the chicken pox when I was 5).


While this system is a bit expensive for me as a set-up, I already feel that it's definitely worth it.  You can buy replacement discs and filters from SkinCareRx or PMD, as well as the moisturizer and skin refinish cream, so this isn't a machine that breaks once and you're out the money completely.


I'm going to keep using my machine until it's time to buy more pads or a new filter and see how much difference it's made.  My Mom actually has a Groupon to have a microdermabrasion done this summer, so I'd like to see if her face looks about the same as mine does after hers.  Granted, every one is different but half my DNA came from her, so I'm going to do a small (but not scientific!) experiment.    


Thanks for letting me share this little skincare posting with you today!

Disclosure: The product[s] in this post was [were] provided to me by the company for consideration.  For more information, please read this post.