Good morning everyone, I hope this finds you well. Today’s topic piggybacks off one I shared a few weeks ago (you can click here if you missed it), where I talked about taking stock of my skin care products and makeup (a real hodgepodge) and realizing I had far more than I could ever use. I put myself on a self-imposed “embargo”—no buying anything new until I worked through what I already had.
Of course, I immediately tossed anything that was too old, but there was still plenty left. I can’t even begin to tell you how satisfying it’s been not buying a single thing and instead being mindful about using what I already own. I’ve even been sometimes even mixing skincare—layering different moisturizers with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid—and so far, so good.
The very best part? Actually finishing products. There is something so strangely gratifying about squeezing out that very last drop and I have with quite a few things that were in hiding for awhile.
Same goes for makeup. I discovered I had four or five tinted moisturizers (!), and I’ve been rotating through all of them. If I’m being honest, two performed almost equally well—and interestingly, one is a drugstore brand while the others are much more expensive. So much for having a “favorite.” though the slightly more expensive one is much more emollient. Even makeup, I have been using it all- discovered that I like a product or two that wasn’t being used and it also reconfirmed my love and devotion to several other products. And there are some skin care products, I really do love, work so well for me and that I will remain a devoted customer to.
This whole process has been eye-opening. I wouldn’t have done it had I not taken the time to fully assess what I owned. Some of you may remember I even did a big giveaway box of skincare and makeup—hearing how excited the recipient was made it all the more worthwhile. I loved getting her email, telling me how thrilled she was with the box. Nothing like delving into fun new products!
That said, walking into places like Sephora, Ulta Beauty, or even CVS Pharmacy can feel completely overwhelming—and everything has gotten so expensive. Moving forward, I’m committed to being much more thoughtful about what I buy and whether I truly need it.
Next on my list is doing a full inventory of my clothing and shoes—both categories where, if I’m being honest, I have far too much off. There are pieces I’ve held onto—beautiful designer items I paid a pretty penny for—but they no longer feel quite right, whether it’s not age-appropriate or simply not my style anymore. I’m sure many of you can relate.
At a certain point, you have to acknowledge you’ve had a good run together… but it’s time to let go and let those pieces find a new home.
This is especially true with shoes. I have so many, and if I’m being completely transparent, I’d say 70% I either rarely wear—or never. So many heels that I don’t enjoy wearing unless absolutely necessary, along with others that have simply seen better days or just aren’t that comfortable. Some shoes.I look at that heel and cant believe I ever wore them:) Comfort trumps all, I will not sacrifice my feet or comfort no matter how beautiful the shoes might be!
So, I’m planning to apply the same strategy I used with my beauty products to my wardrobe—though I know this will take much longer. My goal is that when we move back into our home (hopefully by the end of the year), I’ll be walking into closets that feel curated and intentional, not overwhelming. There’s something incredibly gratifying about opening a closet and knowing that everything in it is something you would actually wear—almost like a larger version of a capsule wardrobe.
My “embargo” on skin care/makeup will likely end in about a month, and there are a few products I’m very curious to try—I’m sharing them below because I’d love to hear if any of you have used them. They’ve all been getting consistently great reviews…
So I am curious if this whole taking stock of what I own this relatable… or just me? Always curious and enjoy hearing what you have to say!
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I look forward to seeing if you can relate to any or all of this. It is funny (and liberating) how you look at things so differently as you get older, perspective certainly changes, for the better I would argue! Thanks for stopping in, until next time….
PS We just started an AMAZING deal of the day. Salad and serving bowls as a set for $30.00 (reg $60) GREAT for summer and amazing hostess gift idea!
Skin care products need to be used consistently to be effective. You should find one brand that works well for you and stick with it for many months of not years. Personally, I have been using Jan Marini for several years and get compliments on my skin all the time. But, regardless of what brand you choose, in order for it to be really effective, you need to use it consistently.
I’ve found that the simpler the routine, the better for my skin. Also, several dermatologists have told me that many drugstore brands are as good as (or even better than) high-end department store brands. I love the Vanicream line of sensitive skin products. I use the facial cleanser and moisturizer (as well as the body wash and body lotion). I like CeraVe toner and eye cream, and I love Neutrogena’s fragrance-free facial wipes. One high-end product I continue to use is Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair. I can’t find anything else I like as much.
At age 70,~ sensitive skin, multiple skin cancers removed & wrinkles ~ things I can’t do without ~ Zein Obagi everything ~ supergoop glowscreen ~ charlotte tilbury Hollywood filter ~ clinigue moisturizing night mask ~ Clinique makup remover…. Hope this helps someone have happy face!!!
Hi Tina,
It really does feel so wonderful to purge through all your things. I just cleaned out my closet for the upcoming summer season, only keeping things that I now feel good in. No more iffy items for me. Love it, or toss it.
As far as skin care goes, my beautiful and wise dermatologist told me never to waste money on anything that goes down the drain!! Drug store gentle cleansers are perfect.
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Good morning everyone, I hope this finds you well. Today’s topic piggybacks off one I shared a few weeks ago (you can click here if you missed it), where I talked about taking stock of my skin care products and makeup (a real hodgepodge) and realizing I had far more than I could ever use. I put myself on a self-imposed “embargo”—no buying anything new until I worked through what I already had.
Of course, I immediately tossed anything that was too old, but there was still plenty left. I can’t even begin to tell you how satisfying it’s been not buying a single thing and instead being mindful about using what I already own. I’ve even been sometimes even mixing skincare—layering different moisturizers with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid—and so far, so good.
The very best part? Actually finishing products. There is something so strangely gratifying about squeezing out that very last drop and I have with quite a few things that were in hiding for awhile.
Same goes for makeup. I discovered I had four or five tinted moisturizers (!), and I’ve been rotating through all of them. If I’m being honest, two performed almost equally well—and interestingly, one is a drugstore brand while the others are much more expensive. So much for having a “favorite.” though the slightly more expensive one is much more emollient. Even makeup, I have been using it all- discovered that I like a product or two that wasn’t being used and it also reconfirmed my love and devotion to several other products. And there are some skin care products, I really do love, work so well for me and that I will remain a devoted customer to.
This whole process has been eye-opening. I wouldn’t have done it had I not taken the time to fully assess what I owned. Some of you may remember I even did a big giveaway box of skincare and makeup—hearing how excited the recipient was made it all the more worthwhile. I loved getting her email, telling me how thrilled she was with the box. Nothing like delving into fun new products!
That said, walking into places like Sephora, Ulta Beauty, or even CVS Pharmacy can feel completely overwhelming—and everything has gotten so expensive. Moving forward, I’m committed to being much more thoughtful about what I buy and whether I truly need it.
Next on my list is doing a full inventory of my clothing and shoes—both categories where, if I’m being honest, I have far too much off. There are pieces I’ve held onto—beautiful designer items I paid a pretty penny for—but they no longer feel quite right, whether it’s not age-appropriate or simply not my style anymore. I’m sure many of you can relate.
At a certain point, you have to acknowledge you’ve had a good run together… but it’s time to let go and let those pieces find a new home.
This is especially true with shoes. I have so many, and if I’m being completely transparent, I’d say 70% I either rarely wear—or never. So many heels that I don’t enjoy wearing unless absolutely necessary, along with others that have simply seen better days or just aren’t that comfortable. Some shoes.I look at that heel and cant believe I ever wore them:) Comfort trumps all, I will not sacrifice my feet or comfort no matter how beautiful the shoes might be!
So, I’m planning to apply the same strategy I used with my beauty products to my wardrobe—though I know this will take much longer. My goal is that when we move back into our home (hopefully by the end of the year), I’ll be walking into closets that feel curated and intentional, not overwhelming. There’s something incredibly gratifying about opening a closet and knowing that everything in it is something you would actually wear—almost like a larger version of a capsule wardrobe.
My “embargo” on skin care/makeup will likely end in about a month, and there are a few products I’m very curious to try—I’m sharing them below because I’d love to hear if any of you have used them. They’ve all been getting consistently great reviews…
So I am curious if this whole taking stock of what I own this relatable… or just me? Always curious and enjoy hearing what you have to say!
_____________________________________________
I look forward to seeing if you can relate to any or all of this. It is funny (and liberating) how you look at things so differently as you get older, perspective certainly changes, for the better I would argue! Thanks for stopping in, until next time….
PS We just started an AMAZING deal of the day. Salad and serving bowls as a set for $30.00 (reg $60) GREAT for summer and amazing hostess gift idea!
Click here.
I think as we get older, we learn what works and what doesn’t (in all aspects of life) and we realize that less is more!
Skin care products need to be used consistently to be effective. You should find one brand that works well for you and stick with it for many months of not years. Personally, I have been using Jan Marini for several years and get compliments on my skin all the time. But, regardless of what brand you choose, in order for it to be really effective, you need to use it consistently.
I’ve found that the simpler the routine, the better for my skin. Also, several dermatologists have told me that many drugstore brands are as good as (or even better than) high-end department store brands. I love the Vanicream line of sensitive skin products. I use the facial cleanser and moisturizer (as well as the body wash and body lotion). I like CeraVe toner and eye cream, and I love Neutrogena’s fragrance-free facial wipes. One high-end product I continue to use is Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair. I can’t find anything else I like as much.
Dr. Sturm is my favorite! I use the oil every day instead of a cream.
I think it is doing a routine regularly. Nothing works if not done consistently .That is the hardest part when it is 12:05 AM!
At age 70,~ sensitive skin, multiple skin cancers removed & wrinkles ~ things I can’t do without ~ Zein Obagi everything ~ supergoop glowscreen ~ charlotte tilbury Hollywood filter ~ clinigue moisturizing night mask ~ Clinique makup remover…. Hope this helps someone have happy face!!!
I love every pair of shoes you have…nice
Hi Tina,
It really does feel so wonderful to purge through all your things. I just cleaned out my closet for the upcoming summer season, only keeping things that I now feel good in. No more iffy items for me. Love it, or toss it.
As far as skin care goes, my beautiful and wise dermatologist told me never to waste money on anything that goes down the drain!! Drug store gentle cleansers are perfect.