Top Pick: Daily Moisturizer

Here is a review of my daily moisturizing routine...but first I need to get something off my chest.

Lets be honest here. I know for many of you it's a daily struggle to commit to your skin care regime, but in the end it's on YOU.

It's your face, your time, and ultimately your decision. Just don't come back in 20 years and say "Help! I need you to fix all my wrinkles and dark spots!!" That's when you'll end up spending way more time and money because you didn't prevent aging.

It's similar to our health care system. The focus has been on treatment and diagnosis, but now we are realizing that we can't keep up with the demand. And as a result there has been a recent scramble to start early prevention of diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

Basically my point is that investing a little bit of time and money now will prevent you from spending a lot of time and money later.

My first item is Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. Please note that there is a lotion version as well for you dry people.

The whole purpose of this product is to balance out oil and water in your skin, and allow for your other products (serums/de-agers) to go deep down into your skin. It's super affordable, $31 for 125ml, and feels lightweight and soothing when you apply. But remember, this is not enough on its own as your daytime moisturizer.
Tip: Use a little bit of this all over your face and you end up using a lot less of your moisturizers.

First impression rating: 8/10
Bang for your buck rating: 10/10
Need or want: Need
Overall rating: 7/10

The next product I apply is Clinique's Pore Refining Solutions Correcting Serum. This is an oil-free serum that actually makes your pores look smaller and gives your skin a satin/silicone look.

I really do think it's fantastic for everyone to use some kind of serum. Whether you use an anti-wrinkle, anti-dark spot, or illuminating serum, just USE one! They're a concentrated delivery system and you really do get the most bang for your buck.

This one cost $47 for 30ml and lasts about 4-5 weeks. Apply it everywhere except around the eyes. Your pores will literally look smaller.

Tip: If you have oily skin but you don't really care about your pores, use this! It will make your skin less oily and give your a matte finish.

First impression rating: 3/10
Bang for your buck rating: 5/10
Need or want: Want
Overall rating: 6.5/10

The last product is my new obsession! Estee Lauder's Daywear BB Creme SPF35. There's been so much recent buzz about BB creme and it's not just hype. Until recently it was only available in Asia, but I guess they've finally FDA approved the ingredients. And I have to say, thank god!

Where to start...Here are the specs: oil-free, SPF 35 (which is very high for a moisturizer), evens out skin tone, sheer coverage, scent free. I've been using this for 3 weeks and my skin has had some major transformations.

I used to breakout occasionally, and that has completely stopped. I used to have discoloration, and that is almost all gone. I used to wear heavy foundation, now I can leave the house with just powder.

Value is there, even though it seems pricey $45 for 30ml.

Tip: Even though it has SPF 35, all of your skin might not be protected. Think about it...some people don't put their moisturizer on every inch of their face, so wherever they don't apply, won't be protected! That's why either put this product ALL over, or use an SPF on top of this (yes another step!).

First impression rating: 5/10
Bang for your buck rating: 8/10
Need or want: Need
Overall Rating: 9/10

Radiant in winter

This winter has been especially dry and I'm still noticing the effects on my skin. I've tried to drink more water, eat skin boosting foods like avocados and almonds, but sometimes I just want that instant glow.

One product that I'm totally in love with is Lancome Eclat Miracle. This weekend I applied it over top of my moisturizer before I put on my foundation. I loved the finish so much that I didn't bother to put on as heavy as a foundation as I usually do. It gave my skin a beautiful luminosity that I haven't found from any other products.

The price is a bit high, $40 for 20ml, but if you only use it for special events and photos then it's well worth it.

A few tips: make sure you give it a good shake before squeezing any out, and try applying only on your cheekbones, temples, and ridge of your nose if you want to conserve product and make it last longer.

First impression rating: 8/10
Bang for your buck rating: 5/10
Need or want: Want
Overall rating: 7/10