Skincare Roundup

Here's a quick roundup of skincare products I've been testing in the last six weeks. The theme here is Cosmetics You Can Buy at Whole Foods Market. I live about 5 minutes away from the largest Whole Foods in the state. Technically it's a walking distance, but since this is New Jersey and we do not walk anywhere. In any case, I was eager to try these and happy to subject my face to some new stuff. Here are the results:

MyChelle Pumpkin Renew Cream ($28.99): I already liked MyChelle's Pumpkin Peel because it's one of the mildest and most gentle ways to ease your skin into the world of peels. This cream is more of a runny lotion, and feels very light on my face (and it does smell like spiced pumpkin). It's no wonder the designation is for All/Combination skin types. A bit too lightweight for my winter skin, but works as an additional layer of moisture before makeup (and after I've loaded up on all the other stuff I need). If you're looking for a light hydration that absorbs right away this might be the answer.

Dr. Hauschka Regenarting Serum ($84.99): Dr. Hauschka products have countless devotees who swear by the brand's all natural and holistic care philosophy. I keep trying their stuff with no success whatsoever. This serum supposedly "firms mature skin, helping to minimize fine lines and wrinkles. Hydrating quince seed extract joins extracts of revitalizing kalanchoe and organic clover blossom honey to support the skin’s natural functions of renewal" which sounds fabulous, but the tightening I felt was of the unpleasant drying kind. One look at the ingredient list explained it all: the second ingredient right after water was alcohol. I gave it several more chances, hoping that the other ingredients would start working, but if my skin protests after every use it means a big fat NO.

Acure Organic Argan Oil  ($26.99): This was love at first use. Argan oil is really all that, and works to restore, hydrate and balance skin, nail, scalp-- just about everything. My favorite use of this is after a lactic or glycolic acid peel, as it calms any redness and makes my skin feel great. I also use it on my cuticles, elbows, feet, irritated skin-- it works everywhere. I don't know why the pump bottle is so much more expensive than the one with a  dropper (the same 1 oz amount is offered at $14.99). Still cheaper than Josie Maran and equally effective.

The products above can be purchased at your local Whole Foods as well as from various online retailers. They were sent for my consideration by PR.