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Favorite Facial Toners

best face toners

Facial Toners are probably the skincare product I used to skip a lot. I don’t remember exactly what had gotten me to start using them diligently, it must be that I just really took my skincare rituals seriously since I’m tired of seeing zits and blemishes on my face. I’ve been hooked into Facial Toners for a couple of years now and since then, I noticed a big improvement in my skin.  We may not realize it, but toners do play an important role in skincare. I have probably experimented on a lot of Toners in the past, and still, I feel like there’s not really a lot of good Face Toners out there. However, I did find a few that seems to work for my skin. So here now are my favorite Facial Toners, a few of them have been a constant favorite for years, and also, there are some that are current favorites or new discoveries and are definitely holy grail-worthy.

 

Son & Park Beauty Water

 

One of the first and my most favorite Facial Toner of all time is the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner (5.4 oz: $76). This toner is gentle and calming to use. It doesn’t leave any residue on the skin and it’s non-drying. There’s almost no scent and it gives a refreshing feel. Its main ingredients are AHA and Pitera – which is rich in amino acids. With that being said, this toner gives a youthful glow over time, and it pretty much balances my skin tone and it also improves and evens my skin texture. My skin used to look dull and tired-looking, but after using this toner for more than 2 years now, my skin has been looking radiant. It also seemed to control my hormonal breakouts, and it brightens and heals whatever zits I have, which is amazing because it usually takes a while for my blemishes to go away. I usually use this Toner right after washing my face, and I soak a cotton pad full of it and just dab it deeply into my open pores and it preps my skin for any serum or moisturizer. It usually takes a while to see this Toner’s effect, but with time, you’ll notice the difference. As with almost all of my reviews talking about SK-II products, I definitely feel like my good skin days always happen whenever I use SK-II. My face overall just looks smooth, glowy, and my oily T-zone seems less likely so. Because of that, I also use their Facial Treatment Essence, which is also great at making my skin look its best. The only drawback with this Toner and as with most SK-II products are the prices. This is definitely a pricey toner even though its packaging is large enough to last me about 2 months. I do try to use it conservatively though as much as I can. But yeah, by now, you know that I really love SK-II products and I highly recommend them.

 

Son & Park Beauty Water Review

 

Probably the closest dupe to the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion is the Son & Park Beauty Water (11.49 oz: $30). It comes in a really large plastic square bottle and you could find it right now at Sephora. It is a K-beauty favorite and has really good reviews online. I’ve also heard about the popular K-beauty brand Missha as having a similar ingredient/toner to the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, it’s called Time Revolution Toner, but I haven’t tried it yet. Anyway, back to this Beauty Water by Son & Park. I usually purchased this Toner whenever I don’t have a budget for the SK-II one. It’s not exactly alike, but it’s similar enough. It’s also a very mild Toner with faint fruity ginger scent, kinda like the scent of the Belif True Cream Aqua Bomb. All throughout my use of this, I noticed that it’s good at removing some remaining makeup residues and it doesn’t dry my skin. It made my skintone look more even and it also feels very calming and so refreshing. I even use this as a face mist and it leaves my skin supple.

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner Review

This Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner (8.4 oz: $44) is an Allure Best of Beauty Winner 2017 and I was surprised to have fallen in love with this at first try. I thought this would be too harsh for my skin, but it’s not. This is actually so refreshing and so calming that I literally zone out every time I use this. LOL. Also, this toner’s packaging is too cute to use and is simply pretty to look at. Although I’ve heard some people say that it looks like one of those jars in their chemistry labs filled with some experimental stuff, LOL again. But anyway, this toner is definitely gentle and I can attest to this since this is pretty much alcohol-free, non-drying and this seems to moisturize a bit. For me, this has all the bells and whistles of a perfect Face Toner like removing debris and purifying the pores, as well as removing extra makeup residue left. But what I love about this is how it really helps soothe my face during breakouts. I just love using this Toner whenever I get those raging hormonal zits and it seems to calm it down, leaving my breakouts reduced in size and almost cured the next day. So, for me, this toner has a therapeutic effect which helped my skin a lot. The packaging is pretty large too, so you can use this for some time.

 

 

Next thing is the Dr. Andrew Weil For Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion (6.7 oz: $34), which is a Toner that got the clean skincare seal from Sephora and is fairly new to me. I’ve only been testing this for a couple of weeks now and who knew mushroom skincare can be so good for the skin? This is literally a very gentle toner even though the scent may not be so gentle, but it’s not bad. It has an aromatic herb-like scent which is soothing of course at least for me, but for some, it may be too much (but I doubt it). I haven’t noticed any dramatic results or improvement of this Toner on my skin yet, but what I do notice is that it never broke me out, I mean, it’s expected because it’s made of clean ingredients like reishi mushroom (anti-inflammatory) and probiotics among other things. It also seems very calming on the skin and it pretty much relieved my skin’s redness.

Dr. Andrew Weil For Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment LotionLast but not the least is the Caudalie Beauty Elixir (1-3.4 oz: $18-49). This is also a new discovery for me, but from the moment I tried this, I literally was like “Where have this toner been all my life?” Apparently, this product has a cult following and I wasn’t a follower of it? Hmmm… I don’t know what kind of sorcery is in here but I was really impressed the moment I sprayed this on my face. It literally made my face smooth and soft and my pores didn’t feel so rough at all. It actually kinda tightened it and my skin looks glowy. Furthermore, it feels soothing with its rosemary, mint, and rose scent. It also has some orange flower water. I usually use this prior to applying a serum or moisturizer during the day and also as a face mist to refresh my face during the afternoon and evening. It’s also great as a setting spray for makeup and it really evens it out, reducing any chances of cakiness. This is definitely on my holy grail list now and it’s definitely worthy of being called a beauty elixir.

 

best facial toners

Bottom line, it’s good to use Face Toners regardless of what brand you’re using or planning to use. I personally think that you shouldn’t skip on this skincare ritual since it’s very important to prep the skin after washing the face. Also, Facial Toners remove extra residues of makeup and dirt that may not have been removed by usual face cleaning, even after double cleansing. On top of that, Facial Toners are very beneficial in purifying the pores. The only downside about Toners is that they get used up a lot, so it’s always a good idea to purchase them in the largest packaging possible, even though most of them are already housed in large containers. So yeah, there goes my favorite Toners of all time, I hope it helps you in finding a favorite one as well.

 

Wishing you good skin days all of the time. Muah!

 

xx.

L.

 

 

Best Body Lotions, Creams, And Body Butters

Hey Everyone! As far as I can remember, I’ve always been a fan of body lotions, believe it or not. I know some people tend to shy away from using them because they don’t really like the feeling of the cream on their skin. I’m the opposite, as long as the lotion is non-greasy and non-sticky, it will always find a space in my home. If I’m not hoarding lipsticks or eyeliners, you will find me hoarding body lotions. Ha! Yeah, it all started when my mom used to douse me with the good ol‘ Johnson and Johnson. From then on, some things had never really changed.

 

best body lotions, best body butters, and best body creams

 

As opposed to my oily-prone face, my skin overall tends to get really dry, especially during cold seasons. I’ve suffered from dry patches, skin bumps, and itchy dry irritated skin. That’s why I always make sure that I have body lotions and foot creams on my bedside table. Speaking of foot creams, check out this review of my favorite foot moisturizers, seen HERE. Anyway, if you’re into lotions like I do, or if you’re looking for some good body creams or body moisturizers in town, here are the body lotions that got me through every Winter and early Spring. Some of them are my holy grails, while some are my recent discoveries.

 

Nivea Cherry Blossom And Jojoba Oil Infused Lotion review

 

Nivea Cherry Blossom And Jojoba Oil Infused Lotion (16.9 fl oz: $5.49) – This is probably one of the best-scented drugstore body lotions you could find. Its floral scent smells really nice and apart from its really cheap price, it’s hefty packaging is guaranteed to last a long time. I love that it comes in a pump dispenser, which makes it really easy to use. However, this isn’t like most of the Nivea body creams and lotions that I’ve tried before which are really creamy and moisturizing. This one is infused with Jojoba oil, so the consistency of this lotion is kind of thin, yet not necessarily oily. It’ll moisture your skin well for the spring or summer but you may venture into something else for the winter because this isn’t the thick and creamy type. More like a good every affordable everyday lotion.

 

Belif Body Bomba Lotion in Lemon Verbena

 

Belif Body Bomba Lotion in Lemon Verbena (8.4 oz: $26) – From the makers of the popular Aqua Bomb moisturizer and a true K-beauty favorite, comes a really nice lotion that smells exactly like what it says, a lemon and verbena blend that is both invigorating and really replenishing. This lotion doesn’t feel sticky nor too heavy. Its scent is not overpowering and its formulation gets absorbed by the skin easily. It has a rich soft feel that moisturizes the skin all throughout the day.

 

Tocca Stella Crema Da Corpo Body Lotion (9 oz: $20) – A lot of people mentioned that this particular lotion does not smell like the popular Tocca Stella Eau de Parfum. While I haven’t really sniffed the Stella Perfume to be able to compare both products, I can tell you that there’s a lot to like about this body lotion. First, it comes in a really nice vintage-looking, easy to open, unique packaging, which makes it for a great item on your vanity table or tray. Second, it has this kind of a Mediterranean scent, which will make you feel nostalgic about your previous sojourn to places like Italy or Spain. Just imagine smelling a blend of roses and mix with blood orange or mandarin while strolling under the nice warm Mediterranean sun. This lotion will set you in the mood for that. Third, this doesn’t feel too thick nor too thin, and it’s non-greasy. I believe this is a nice everyday lotion with a slightly fruity and very floral scent that will grow on you as you keep using it.

Sol de Janeiro Açaí Body Power Cream review

Sol de Janeiro Açaí Body Power Cream (2.5 oz: $20, 8.1 oz: $45) – I’m a big fan of Sol de Janeiro body creams. I’ve repurchased the Bum Bum Cream several times that right now I’m kind of taking a break from it. So I’m currently enjoying their Açai Body Power cream which is pretty much similar to the Bum Bum Cream in terms of texture and consistency. Both comes in cute packaging and both also have fine shimmers to them. The Bum Bum Cream has golden shimmers while this Açai Body Power Cream has a peachy glow. What I love about this is its fresh floral scent and its shimmers have a very summery vibe. On the other hand, the Bum Bum Cream’s scent can be too heady for some, but this Açai Body Power is just a delight to use every day. Overall, I do recommend both creams whichever scent you may prefer, because you won’t only get lasting skin hydration from them, you’ll also get that shimmering skin effect.

 

Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Lotion

 

Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion (6.5 oz: $43) – This lotion has a really nice clean non-irritating scent. A scent that is reminiscent of a lot of high-end creams, which are light and luxurious. It has a very soft and very lightweight feel but very moisturizing nonetheless. It’s the kind of lotion that you know you’re going to love the moment you apply it on the skin, and it doesn’t interfere with any perfumes or colognes. Also, it doesn’t feel greasy at all and it’ll melt into your skin easily. Moisturizing even to the driest part of your body. Overall, this makes for a great everyday lightweight body moisturizer.

 

Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm (4.1 oz: $35.00, 17 oz: $97.00) – I love love love this body cream. It’s so good and you just can’t get enough of it. It’s like you just ate a thousand fresh oranges and the scent of its skin lingers on your hands, fingers, and all over the body. It moisturizes the skin well and it leaves rough dry areas supple. It isn’t greasy and it isn’t sticky. Your skin will absorb this easily and it will smell so refreshing and invigorating. It’s so good yet it’s so pricey, but it’s well worth it. P. S. I also use this as a hand cream because I love that it has a nice not too light and not too thick texture.

 

Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Lotion (8 oz: $18) –  This is another great lightweight lotion that has a nice crisp slightly lemon scent. It a great unisex body moisturizer with a scent that disappears over time rather easily, which makes it ideal for everyday use, even to those who couldn’t stand any kind of fragrances in their skincare products. It’s quite similar to the Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion above, but this kind of feels even lighter and it’s perfect as a Summer body hydrator.

Philosophy Amazing Grace Whipped Body Crème review

Philosophy Amazing Grace Whipped Body Crème (8 oz: $35) – This body cream is not only cute with its millennial pink packaging, it also hydrates the skin well like no other. It has a whipped consistency and has a very thick rich texture that softens dark rough areas of the body. It’s so moisturizing and it’s great for calluses or any other dry irritated skin. It’s lightly scented with the popular Philosophy Amazing Grace fragrance, which is fresh, clean, and light, and it comes in a hefty tub container that you can use all throughout the Winter season and beyond. Speaking of Winter, this is a great lotion to use during the dry cold months, and you don’t really need to apply a lot of it in order to get its moisturizing effect. Just a little bit goes a long way.

 

Fresh

 

Fresh Hesperides Grapefruit Body Lotion

 

Seaberry Restorative Body Cream (6.8 oz: $27) – True to its name, this body lotion is really soothing and calming to the skin. This has a bit of a curative effect, that is because this literally calmed my skin bumps at least all throughout the day of using this. Its texture is also not too thin and not too thick and it’s very hydrating. I don’t particularly like its strong lavender scent but it’s a lotion that not only keeps the skin smooth and soft, it actually softens and hydrates the dry rough areas.

 

Sugar Lemon Body Lotion (10 oz: $23) – I’m a long time fan of this line of body lotions from Fresh, and this Sugar Lemon scent is my second most favorite. It’s a fresh sort of sweet refreshing scent that will last throughout the day and the next. It can be overpowering at times, but it’s not bad. The lotion itself is lightweight but it moisturizes well. It’s great to use every day whether you have sensitive skin or not, and the packaging is cute and decently sized.

 

Hesperides Grapefruit Body Lotion (10 oz: $23) – Of all the Fresh body lotions, this is by far my most favored scent. I have used this for as long as I can remember, together with another lotion below, and it is SO good. Using this is always a refreshing experience and I love that it’s lightweight, it goes into the skin easily, and it keeps it moisturized for the whole day and the next. The fresh grapefruit scent is so irresistible and also noticeable on your clothes the following day. I highly recommend that you give this one a try.

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

 

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter in Sweet Citrus (8 oz: $35) – Here’s my other favorite body moisturizer. One that is somewhat thick, very rich, and oh so creamy. My go-to body lotion every Winter and early Spring. This is so moisturizing it literally melts on the skin like butter, and with its Sweet Citrus scent, it’s hard to find another product that could topple this. I’ve probably tried all the different scents of this particular body butter, but I always come back to the Sweet Citrus one because it’s simply irresistibly refreshing as if you’re in a spa, and it’s never boring. I get a lot of compliments about how good I smell whenever I use this. Since this body butter is infused with Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, and Shea Butter, it’s an ideal product for people dry skin, and perfect for cold dry seasons. It’s also great as a cream to heal dry cracked heels of the feet and it’s non-sticky and non-greasy

 

Korres Body Butters

 

Korres Body Butters Yoghurt

 

Yoghurt (7.95 oz:$31) – This is my latest discovery from last Winter. I got so curious about this since I’m also a fan of Korres skincare products. I find that this body moisturizer really delivers in moisturizing dry rough skin very well. It’s really thick and is very creamy, because of that, it takes a good amount of rubbing and dabbing on the skin to get the product to spread evenly. If you don’t do that, it might just sit on top of the skin. But it’s really not a big deal since this body butter not only keeps the skin smooth and soft, it’s also not sticky nor greasy. The yoghurt scent is my most favorite because it’s light, clean, and calming.

 

Guava (7.95 oz: $31) – Smells like sweet guava. This is ideal for those like tropical scents in their body lotions. This body butter is really thick that it’s a good idea not to put a lot of it on the skin due to the richness of its consistency.

 

Best Lightweight Lotions:

.Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion

.Fresh Body Lotions

.Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Lotion

 

Best Moisturizing Body Lotions (Thick & Creamy):

.Korres Body Butters

.Philosophy Amazing Grace Whipped Body Cream

.Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

 

Best Midweight Body Lotions:

.Sol de Janeiro Açai Body Power/Bum Bum Cream

.Tocca Stella Crema Da Corpo Body Lotion

.Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm

.Belif Body Bomba

 

Best Scents:

.Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

.Fresh Hesperides Body Lotion

.Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm

 

Best Packaging:

Simple, fast and easy to use:

.Nivea Cherry Blossom and Jojoba Oil Infused Lotion

 

Unique aesthetics. (Not necessarily practical to use):

.Tocca Stella Crema Da Corpo

.Aesop Rind Concentrate

.Sol de Janeiro Açai Body Power

.Philosophy Amazing Grace Whipped Body Cream

 

Personal Favorites:

.Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

.Fresh Hesperides Grapefruit Body Lotions

.Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm

.Sol de Janeiro Açai Body Power Cream

.Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion

 

Most Affordable:

.Nivea Cherry Blossom and Jojoba Oil Infused Body Lotion

 

Best High-End Body Creams:

.Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm

.Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion

 

Have you tried these body lotions before? If yes, which ones are your favorites?