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The Best Skin of Your Life Starts Here: Busting Beauty Myths So You Know What to Use and Why
Best-selling beauty author and internationally known "Cosmetics Cop" Paula Begoun and her team of beauty experts from Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me are back to give readers the facts about skin and how it needs to be treated. From acne to wrinkles and everything in between, Paula and her team reveal the truth about skin type, skin concerns, cosmetic corrective procedures, dozens of today's most pervasive cosmetic myths, and some of the most helpful, surprising makeup tips we've uncovered in our careers. Readers learn why so many products don't work as claimed, discover some of our favorite products, and learn how you can easily put together a skincare routine that gets you the best possible results without sorting through all the hype and misleading information. Readers feel as though they're getting truly helpful advice from a good friend — someone who's been there, knows what skin problems do to one's self-esteem, and is shedding some much-needed light on the often-confusing world of beauty. The best part? All of the skincare tips and recommendations in this book are based on published scientific research, so you can be confident you're making the smartest decisions for your beauty needs.
400 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2015
57 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Paula Begoun
31 books39 followersPaula Begoun is the founder and innovative force behind Paula's Choice skin care and cosmetics. She is the author of 18 self-published books, the best-selling ones are on skin care. She has a flourishing website selling her books and her cosmetics. The author has appeared on many chat shows and Paula, nor any of her team, are dermatologists or qualified in any way medically.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 5, 2021
When you walk down the skincare aisle, you quickly become overwhelmed and confused by all the choices available. There are so many cleansers, serums, lotions, and other potions each with unique ingredients and extraordinary promises to clear skin, soften lines, improve radiance, and other beautifying and age-defying claims.
Of course, all of this marketing appeals to your natural desire to look young, beautiful, and healthy. But is it just marketing designed to get you to buy or do the products actually do what they say they will do? And how do you know which products you should be using now, later, or not at all?
Skincare experts Paula Begoun, Bryan Barron, and Desiree Stordahl co-authored this book to demystify skincare ingredients and claims and help you sort out the truth about which products are effective and beneficial for your skin. If you’ve ever wondered if eye cream is really all that different from your usual facial lotion or why a particular product or ingredient does or does not work, then you’ll get an easy to understand answer based on scientific research.
The authors provide information on all facets of skincare including sun damage, acne, anti-aging, caring for different skin types, treating skin problems, and cosmetic procedures like Botox. There are chapters covering common questions and myths, professional make-up secrets, and a cosmetic ingredient dictionary. I’ve come away with a better understanding of how I should be caring for my skin, what products to seek out and which to avoid, and the limitations and possibilities of skincare products. My next trip down the skincare aisle will find me making a simpler and more confident choice as I choose the right products to help keep my skin looking healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
Of course, all of this marketing appeals to your natural desire to look young, beautiful, and healthy. But is it just marketing designed to get you to buy or do the products actually do what they say they will do? And how do you know which products you should be using now, later, or not at all?
Skincare experts Paula Begoun, Bryan Barron, and Desiree Stordahl co-authored this book to demystify skincare ingredients and claims and help you sort out the truth about which products are effective and beneficial for your skin. If you’ve ever wondered if eye cream is really all that different from your usual facial lotion or why a particular product or ingredient does or does not work, then you’ll get an easy to understand answer based on scientific research.
The authors provide information on all facets of skincare including sun damage, acne, anti-aging, caring for different skin types, treating skin problems, and cosmetic procedures like Botox. There are chapters covering common questions and myths, professional make-up secrets, and a cosmetic ingredient dictionary. I’ve come away with a better understanding of how I should be caring for my skin, what products to seek out and which to avoid, and the limitations and possibilities of skincare products. My next trip down the skincare aisle will find me making a simpler and more confident choice as I choose the right products to help keep my skin looking healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
January 3, 2016
I love Paula’s products and wish that I’d waited to get this book free with my Paula’s Choice order, rather than paying full price for it. This most recent book by Paula Begoun is very good, but not her best one. Other than a few small tips, I didn’t learn anything new really. Her two previous books pretty much say the same thing. If you order from Paula's Choice and manage to get this one free, it's worth a read. I wouldn't pay full price for it and I prefer her other books.
December 29, 2015
This is a work of literature of the highest order. Yeah, right. It's about skincare, dummies.
Full disclosure: I received it free with my skincare purchase from Paula, and I've been using her products for years. I don't always agree with some of her assessments and product reviews. She sometimes seems to contradict herself, penalizing some products with fragrance while keeping others on her "Best" list. This book could definitely be seen as loaded with self-interest. She recommends mostly her own products, but I've found come good cheapies thanks to her recommendations (Alpha Hydrox Spotlight Skin Lightener: $7.49!).
For those who might already be fans of Paula Begoun, especially those who have any of her previous books, this might be redundant and repetitive. This is the most updated version, and it does discuss some ingredients that weren't as well known when she published her other works; she also busts some myths.
She repeats herself when it comes to certain things, especially regarding sunscreen. As in "Retinol's great, but it won't do shit if you don't use sunscreen" and "Vitamin C can lighten discolorations, but all the Vitamin C in the world won't help if you don't wear sunscreen!" It's kind of annoying, but I understand that the reason it bears repeating is because people don't seem to be listening. And I'm sure there are countless individuals out there who don't wear sunscreen, then blame their other products when the "don't work".
The bottom line is that it's not much different from the info you can find on the Paula's Choice or Beautypedia website, but it's great to have this as a reference. The end of the book has an excellent glossary of common skincare ingredients, from the good to the bad and everything in between.
The best part of the book is how she explains which ingredients can help and how, as well as how different ingredients can work in synergy to improve results, which is more involved than what can be found on her site. The reason I have to give Paula credit is that all her expertise is EXHAUSTIVELY researched, as well as honest. There isn't a product in the world that can truly erase dark circles or sagging skin, and she lets you know. If you don't believe Paula, research one of the dozens of papers, articles, and studies in the bibliography. The woman knows her stuff.
Full disclosure: I received it free with my skincare purchase from Paula, and I've been using her products for years. I don't always agree with some of her assessments and product reviews. She sometimes seems to contradict herself, penalizing some products with fragrance while keeping others on her "Best" list. This book could definitely be seen as loaded with self-interest. She recommends mostly her own products, but I've found come good cheapies thanks to her recommendations (Alpha Hydrox Spotlight Skin Lightener: $7.49!).
For those who might already be fans of Paula Begoun, especially those who have any of her previous books, this might be redundant and repetitive. This is the most updated version, and it does discuss some ingredients that weren't as well known when she published her other works; she also busts some myths.
She repeats herself when it comes to certain things, especially regarding sunscreen. As in "Retinol's great, but it won't do shit if you don't use sunscreen" and "Vitamin C can lighten discolorations, but all the Vitamin C in the world won't help if you don't wear sunscreen!" It's kind of annoying, but I understand that the reason it bears repeating is because people don't seem to be listening. And I'm sure there are countless individuals out there who don't wear sunscreen, then blame their other products when the "don't work".
The bottom line is that it's not much different from the info you can find on the Paula's Choice or Beautypedia website, but it's great to have this as a reference. The end of the book has an excellent glossary of common skincare ingredients, from the good to the bad and everything in between.
The best part of the book is how she explains which ingredients can help and how, as well as how different ingredients can work in synergy to improve results, which is more involved than what can be found on her site. The reason I have to give Paula credit is that all her expertise is EXHAUSTIVELY researched, as well as honest. There isn't a product in the world that can truly erase dark circles or sagging skin, and she lets you know. If you don't believe Paula, research one of the dozens of papers, articles, and studies in the bibliography. The woman knows her stuff.
March 1, 2016
I have been a fan of 'Paula Begoun' ever since reading ,"The complete Beauty bible". I have read every book of hers since, visited her website regularly, and even brought her products. I have always been satisfied with the quality of her books. This is a good book, but it left me a little disappointed. As it is not as good as her previous books. I'll summarize an overview of what I liked, and what I didn't.
What I got from reading this, was that it was a book that tried to help people individualize a skincare plan. When it came to skincare routines this book did a remarkable job. The strategy's for skin care plans were detailed like what product textures would feel most comfortable, what formulas worked optimally, and they even had scenarios to help pinpoint certain problem areas. I particularly enjoyed their advice for layering products. As I always have difficulty with this aspect of skin care.
They tend to repeat themselves a lot which I can forgive since there are certain aspects of skin care that some people ignore(like sunscreen.)
Her other books have always discussed skin disorders. However, this book included other skin disorders for a wider audience , in addition to emerging research. Due to these factors this book went into a deeper analysis of rosacea, sebaceous hyperplasia, and keratosis pelaris (KP),skin sagging, facial scarring, body acne, milia, stys, and dry skin with acne. On the other hand, there seemed to be less new findings on psoriasis and eczema.
They offer two small sections on extracting milia and acne. This seems a little risky to me, but they do make the reader aware of that. While these sections may be helpful ,they failed to give enough information on different kind of extractors. They do show you one extractor, but one size doesn't fit all. I wish that they did go more in depth about the different kind of extractors to make people more aware on what kind of extractors can do the most for them.
They do review micro-needles, skin surgery and pre and post- surgery skin care. They have touched on each of these topics before, but there is more discussion on micro- needles.
I am always interested to see and learn new information on skin and cosmetic science, It is a part of what keeps my interest in this book alive. These book always has a discussion on these two topics.
They had discussed new acne findings, and elastin a lot at a point during this book. The good news is there are some *potential* elastin repairing ingredients, but they did not list any. There was a section on scars. Most of it was stuff they already mentioned. Personally, I wish they elaborated on exudate, the benefits of quercetin, and silicone , and their limitations. they also did a splendid job at explaining the benefits of using cortisone cream intermittently.
They reviewed certain trends in the skincare industry including: facial oils, essences, serums and toners. I liked learning about the facial oils, and boosters. However, their section on moisturizers and serums contradicted each other. A serum is usually more concentrated in antioxidants than moisturizers are, but it is still a moisturizer. In addition, I would have liked to know more about toners like how do they remove the last traces of makeup?
The dictionary was nice to look at as a reference. They updated :coconut oil, lauric acid, polythenyl beads, matrixyl 3000,hydroquinine,periscana hydropiper, comfey,
and DEA. I would have liked a mention of copper lysinate prolate, epilogium angustifolum extract, artica lappa, rosa canina, rose quartz,and salix alba extract to name a few.
The makeup section in here was hyped up. In my opinion it did not live up to its expectations. It was about ten pages long. Which is less than the makeup sections in : "Blue eyeshadow should be illegal", and "the original beauty bible." There was no mention of current trends such as: strobing,'kylie jenner' lips, clown contouring, baking or insta-brows. That's not to say that there aren't certain gems you cant glean from here though. It does focus on issues their fans asked about. It also offers some new tricks (I liked the tight lining one).
This book was simply okay. I liked it but I didn't love it. My best recommendation is to read : "The Complete Beauty Bible" , it is not as current as this book. However,it covers all the material found in here, plus more.
February 22, 2016
The author of this book really made sure to do her research and I appreciate that so very much. There were many parts that I skipped in regards to skincare because they didn't apply to me, but for the most part the information was super relevant and helpful. This is not a book to read for fun, because if it was I wouldn't have rated it 4 stars. It's not fun, it's educational; it's important. Finished it right on time too, need to buy a lot of skincare products this coming week and the recommendations in the book are super affordable and quick to access at any Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora, etc! Definitely a book I'll have to take a few peeks at every once in a while! It does get a little repetitive at times but that's only because the author really wants to emphasize the importance of doing many of the things outlined in the book such as using sunscreen SPF 30+ every day of the week, for the rest of your life.
Are you aware of how important it actually is? Probably not. Was I? Nope. Will I be buying one tomorrow? Yup. Should you read this book if you really want to learn how to properly take care of your skin? Heck yeah.
Thanks Paula!!
Are you aware of how important it actually is? Probably not. Was I? Nope. Will I be buying one tomorrow? Yup. Should you read this book if you really want to learn how to properly take care of your skin? Heck yeah.
Thanks Paula!!
January 6, 2016
I liked The Beauty Bible more, since it it goes into so much more details. This is more easily digestible version, which will probably appeal to a wider readers audience. Highly recommend nevertheless. You will get as close as possible to really understanding what and why you should put on your face.
October 12, 2017
I started reading Paula Begoun's books back in the late 80's. She convinced me that I needed to stop tanning and start wearing sunscreen daily instead of just at the beach or pool. Best advice ever! I started using her product line in 1995 and have used it almost solely ever since. Best thing I could have ever done for my skin! Use sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily, don't use products with irritating ingredients, be consistent with excellent products to see results. I am 52 and my skin doesn't look I it, all thanks to Paula!! She is my Queen/Guru of skin care!!
November 12, 2018
This book goes through the main aspects of skincare in a short, but precise way...just like this kind of books should. Not to mention that all claims are well researched.. This is the main reason I have always trusted Paula Begoun. I cannot really say I've learned many new things from this book, but that I owe to Paula that I follow for so many years already. I recommend this book to those that have a passion for skincare.
November 13, 2015
This is one of the best books I've read on skin care and beauty. It's packed with information about how skin care ingredients work and how to choose good quality skincare products. I found the chapters on antiaging skincare and caring for dry skin to be particularly helpful
September 29, 2016
A good, non-biased, informative book about how to care for your skin the best that you can according to your skin type. The book explains about what everyone's skin needs to be healthy, different skin types and how to identify what yours is. There are chapters covering each skin type with advice and knowledge specific to that skin type. They include recommendations for the types of products each skin type needs. The book is written purely based on science and research and takes no favour over one particular cosmetic company or another. The author does a good job of demystifying the cosmetic industries foreign jargon found in the ingredient lists of many products, and tells you what products are legitimately worth buying and those that are just a money-grab.
Topics covered also include anti-aging skincare, special skincare needs (e.g. Eczema), acne and problematic skin, skin myth busters, sunscreen Q&A and Botox, lasers and surgery (if you're interested in that kind of thing).The book finishes with a little bonus chapter on professional make-up secrets that have actually been supplied by professional makeup artists, along with recommendations for make-up products - I particularly like this section. There is also a glossary of the ingredients found in skin care products, rating them as "Great, fair or poor".
Overall, I really did like this read and plan on using the information from now on. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because a lot of the product recommendations in the "drug-store price" category aren't available outside of the USA.
July 3, 2016
Got this on a whim at the library. As someone who knew absolutely zero about basic skin care, I found this book extremely helpful. The writing style is pretty basic, annoying at times (extremely repetitive - I understand what the author was going for, but readers aren't complete idiots), and maybe could have used a better editor. BUT there really is a ton of useful info in this book. I really learned a lot and no longer feel completely lost when standing in the skin product aisle at Target. One of the biggest lessons - most of the stuff out there is crap. Don't buy products willy nilly - at best you are wasting your money and at worst damaging your skin. Do your research. I really appreciate Paula and her team putting this book together. It has started my journey towards healthier skin and of being more conscientious of the products I use. And I now slather myself in sunscreen everyday. Her website is great too. Love the product reviews. How did we function before the internet??
July 10, 2017
This was my first book from Begoun's collection that I have read, so I didn't quite feel the repetition many fans have complained about. That being said, as a newcomer to skincare literature, I found this book to be very informative and helpful. Although skincare is often complicated and confusing, Begoun explains to her readers skincare concepts and key ingredients in ways that don't require a degree in chemistry. Overall, I found this book to be empowering, and I can't wait to apply what I've learned!
June 17, 2016
Will shout from rooftops forever—follow Paula Begoun! The authors offer the best, thorough, non-judgmental approach to skincare out there. Makeup means nothing without a solid foundation—healthy, glowing skin. The info and guidelines presented are nothing new if you're familiar with the authors' work, but it was a great refresher featuring more up-to-date research and analyses. And lastly, WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN!
November 28, 2018
Great book! I especially love the ingredients dictionary at the back. I definitely respect and trust Paula, and have had much happier and healthier skin since following her advice and using her Paula's Choice products. I wish I'd known a lot of these things sooner!
September 4, 2021
It was a long read. Most of the information in this book can be easily found on the Internet easily these days. So if you are into skincare and follow some good derm based influencer, you would probably know 90% of the knowledge this book has. On the other hand if you are completely new to al this and need one place to get all your information, this is a good, but long way to go. This book also has a chapter that touches the topics of surgeries and other chemical procedures that I found particularly interesting since that is a beauty space I don't explore much. It is a great place to start your skincare journey as it can get quite over whelming quickly. But this book tries to provide structure to this chaos and distinguish between marketing and research backed claims.
I shall try to summarize the main points here:
- Basic Routine:
1. Use a gentle, water soluble cleanser appropriate to your skin type. Avoid soap bars. And double cleansing is optional. Lower pH is better. (Close to 5.5)
2. Toner, should have no irritants ,a liquid toner can instantly give skin a generous dose of these important substances in a way that a moisturizer can’t.
3. Exfoliant in an appropriate formula. Use AHA/BHA. BHA are specially good for acne or rosacea.
4. Serum, based on your skin concern, in a formula according to your skin type.
5a. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or more during day.
5b. Moisturizer, it is supposed to improve skin’s softness, smoothness, and ability to hold on to the vital substances.
- Everyone needs/could use the same fundamental, crucial ingredients (regardless of skin type) and these are: antioxidants, skin-repairing ingredients and cell communicating ingredients.
Skin-identical and skin-repairing ingredients are substances between skin cells that keep those cells connected (think of mortar between bricks) to help maintain skin’s barrier. There are many skin-identical ingredients, including such well-known substances as hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, and ceramides.
- Cell-communicating ingredients are substances that “communicate” with these defective cells, helping reverse the damage by helping the skin to produce healthier, younger cells.
The key players in this group are niacinamide, retinol, synthetic peptides, lecithin, and adenosine triphosphate. Skin-identical ingredients range from ceramides to lecithin, glycerin, fatty acids, polysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, sodium PCA, collagen, elastin, proteins, amino acids, cholesterol, glycosaminoglycans, triglycerides, and many more.
- ANTIOXIDANTS can prevent some of the degenerative effects in skin caused by sun exposure, and can reduce inflammation within skin. There are a wide variety of antioxidants, including different forms of vitamins A, C, and E, superoxide dismutase, beta carotene, glutathione, selenium, green tea, soy extract, grape extract, pomegranate extract, and dozens of others. It’s also critical for these antioxidants to be housed in packaging that will ensure they remain effective, which means they should not be packaged in a jar or in clear packaging because antioxidants break down in the presence of light and air.
- It is okay to layer a few products. According to her layering means supplementing your core routine with products usually referred to as specialized serums, essences, boosters, or medical treatments (over-the-counter as well as prescription), either every day or as needed.
- DIET: Sugar in the body triggers a process known as glycation, which is a chemical reaction that occurs when the sugar you eat interacts in a not-so-friendly way with your body’s lipids and proteins. This reaction forms advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which are destructive, inflammation-producing molecules that contribute to disease and increase free-radical damage, wrinkles, sagging, and, theoretically, acne.
Main offenders:
- Sugar, especially refined sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup, but any sugar (including honey and, yes, even agave nectar) causes the formation of AGEs.
- Trans-fat
- Processed or cured meats, including bacon, which contains nitrites and nitrates, which are an acute source of inflammation. Red meat, choose the leanest cuts and avoid grilling with charcoal, or cooking it until it’s dark brown or black, which increases AGEs and other harmful chemicals.
- Highly processed food.
- White flour, wheat flour.
TO EAT MORE OF:
- Green, black, and red teas.
- Deeply colored berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
- Deeply colored vegetables, especially leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, such as red cabbage.
- Red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers, and all types of hot peppers.
- Salmon and other cold-water, oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids; choose wild-caught rather than farm-raised.
- Walnuts are considered the superman of nuts, but most nuts have health benefits, so buy the nuts you like the best. Choose raw if available, as too much processing can reduce the nutrient value of nuts.
- Grape seed, walnut, rice bran, and canola oils.
- Whole grains not only supply vitamins and antioxidants, but also boost your fiber intake, which reduces inflammation.
- Spices such as basil, cardamom, cumin, curry, garlic, ginger, oregano, tamarind, and turmeric—but be sure to use them often, as spices can deteriorate quickly, losing their nutritional punch.
- Flax, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds
I shall try to summarize the main points here:
- Basic Routine:
1. Use a gentle, water soluble cleanser appropriate to your skin type. Avoid soap bars. And double cleansing is optional. Lower pH is better. (Close to 5.5)
2. Toner, should have no irritants ,a liquid toner can instantly give skin a generous dose of these important substances in a way that a moisturizer can’t.
3. Exfoliant in an appropriate formula. Use AHA/BHA. BHA are specially good for acne or rosacea.
4. Serum, based on your skin concern, in a formula according to your skin type.
5a. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or more during day.
5b. Moisturizer, it is supposed to improve skin’s softness, smoothness, and ability to hold on to the vital substances.
- Everyone needs/could use the same fundamental, crucial ingredients (regardless of skin type) and these are: antioxidants, skin-repairing ingredients and cell communicating ingredients.
Skin-identical and skin-repairing ingredients are substances between skin cells that keep those cells connected (think of mortar between bricks) to help maintain skin’s barrier. There are many skin-identical ingredients, including such well-known substances as hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, and ceramides.
- Cell-communicating ingredients are substances that “communicate” with these defective cells, helping reverse the damage by helping the skin to produce healthier, younger cells.
The key players in this group are niacinamide, retinol, synthetic peptides, lecithin, and adenosine triphosphate. Skin-identical ingredients range from ceramides to lecithin, glycerin, fatty acids, polysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, sodium PCA, collagen, elastin, proteins, amino acids, cholesterol, glycosaminoglycans, triglycerides, and many more.
- ANTIOXIDANTS can prevent some of the degenerative effects in skin caused by sun exposure, and can reduce inflammation within skin. There are a wide variety of antioxidants, including different forms of vitamins A, C, and E, superoxide dismutase, beta carotene, glutathione, selenium, green tea, soy extract, grape extract, pomegranate extract, and dozens of others. It’s also critical for these antioxidants to be housed in packaging that will ensure they remain effective, which means they should not be packaged in a jar or in clear packaging because antioxidants break down in the presence of light and air.
- It is okay to layer a few products. According to her layering means supplementing your core routine with products usually referred to as specialized serums, essences, boosters, or medical treatments (over-the-counter as well as prescription), either every day or as needed.
- DIET: Sugar in the body triggers a process known as glycation, which is a chemical reaction that occurs when the sugar you eat interacts in a not-so-friendly way with your body’s lipids and proteins. This reaction forms advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which are destructive, inflammation-producing molecules that contribute to disease and increase free-radical damage, wrinkles, sagging, and, theoretically, acne.
Main offenders:
- Sugar, especially refined sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup, but any sugar (including honey and, yes, even agave nectar) causes the formation of AGEs.
- Trans-fat
- Processed or cured meats, including bacon, which contains nitrites and nitrates, which are an acute source of inflammation. Red meat, choose the leanest cuts and avoid grilling with charcoal, or cooking it until it’s dark brown or black, which increases AGEs and other harmful chemicals.
- Highly processed food.
- White flour, wheat flour.
TO EAT MORE OF:
- Green, black, and red teas.
- Deeply colored berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
- Deeply colored vegetables, especially leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, such as red cabbage.
- Red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers, and all types of hot peppers.
- Salmon and other cold-water, oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids; choose wild-caught rather than farm-raised.
- Walnuts are considered the superman of nuts, but most nuts have health benefits, so buy the nuts you like the best. Choose raw if available, as too much processing can reduce the nutrient value of nuts.
- Grape seed, walnut, rice bran, and canola oils.
- Whole grains not only supply vitamins and antioxidants, but also boost your fiber intake, which reduces inflammation.
- Spices such as basil, cardamom, cumin, curry, garlic, ginger, oregano, tamarind, and turmeric—but be sure to use them often, as spices can deteriorate quickly, losing their nutritional punch.
- Flax, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds
December 11, 2019
Full review at: http://www.everydayiwritethebookblog....
Here’s what’s good about this book. It gives very clear instructions for exactly how to take care of your skin. This is the kind of self-help book I like – one that gives very practical guidance that you can implement as soon as you read it. I am not into self-help books about being happy or productive or relaxed, or business books about effective habits and smart leadership. But a book that tells me to use a cleanser and then a toner and then an exfoliant and then a moisturizer? Yes.
The Best Skin Of Your Life Starts Here covers how to establish a skincare routine, which essential elements should be part of that routine, how to tell what kind of skin you have, how to treat acne, how to treat other skin problems and what plastic surgery and injections can accomplish. The book can be repetitive, but that just made me learn the content faster. A few key takeaways:
The most important thing you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen! ALL THE TIME.
Vitamin C does wonders for your skin.
Consistency is key when it comes to skincare regimens.
Don’t buy products in clear glass bottles or use old products.
I learned a lot from The Best Skin Of Your Life Starts Here and have implemented a new skincare routine since I finished Chapter 2. I also totally overhauled my bathroom counter and now actually understand what I have and what it’s used for.
Here’s what’s good about this book. It gives very clear instructions for exactly how to take care of your skin. This is the kind of self-help book I like – one that gives very practical guidance that you can implement as soon as you read it. I am not into self-help books about being happy or productive or relaxed, or business books about effective habits and smart leadership. But a book that tells me to use a cleanser and then a toner and then an exfoliant and then a moisturizer? Yes.
The Best Skin Of Your Life Starts Here covers how to establish a skincare routine, which essential elements should be part of that routine, how to tell what kind of skin you have, how to treat acne, how to treat other skin problems and what plastic surgery and injections can accomplish. The book can be repetitive, but that just made me learn the content faster. A few key takeaways:
The most important thing you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen! ALL THE TIME.
Vitamin C does wonders for your skin.
Consistency is key when it comes to skincare regimens.
Don’t buy products in clear glass bottles or use old products.
I learned a lot from The Best Skin Of Your Life Starts Here and have implemented a new skincare routine since I finished Chapter 2. I also totally overhauled my bathroom counter and now actually understand what I have and what it’s used for.
January 14, 2021
When I was 14, my mom gave me Paula’s book “Don’t go to the cosmetics counter without me,” and it was my bible for years! I trust Paula’s straightforward advice and her tell-it-as-it-us approach to cosmetic marketing claims. Yes, she does promote her own products, but she also makes it clear there are equally good products out there at all price points.
I find the writing style of this book a bit “meh.” It’s repetitive - and, yes, she says that’s by design - but I feel it could have been edited significantly without losing the message.
Overall, I think it’s solid advice for anyone interested in skincare.
I find the writing style of this book a bit “meh.” It’s repetitive - and, yes, she says that’s by design - but I feel it could have been edited significantly without losing the message.
Overall, I think it’s solid advice for anyone interested in skincare.
June 2, 2023
Although you can find most of this information through searching google, watching/listening to beauty accounts on social media, and visiting a dermatologist, this book is such an excellent handy reference for all of the things! From the purpose and use of certain skincare products, the proper order of applying products during your AM and PM routine, and the best way to target specific skincare problems (to name just a few), this book was invaluable. I learned some new techniques, clarified some faulty skincare myths, and confirmed I’m on the right path to better skin. However, I would love an updated version that includes more current products since this was published in 2015.
January 21, 2018
A different perspective from my last skincare book, Skin Cleanse, which was highly focused on diet and natural products. Although there's mention of skin care being something each person needs to adjust to their own skin, I feel like the book doesn't practise this, as it gives some pretty straightforward advice without many caveats.
Nevertheless, interesting and informative part of my health and skin care journey.
Nevertheless, interesting and informative part of my health and skin care journey.
March 23, 2021
Really awesome book with sound skincare advice that makes choosing what products you should buy so simple. Many of the concepts presented match what I’ve scoured the internet to find in research. So, I know the content is good and the advice is sound, BUT I wish they included a reference list at the back of the book to legitimize the concepts presented. I also would enjoy to go look at the studies mentioned in the book.
May 27, 2020
Not that different, though updated from the version of Don’t Go to the Cosmetic Counter Without Me. Website is probably most updated place to reference.
December 14, 2020
This is a good book for anyone wanting to sort through the skin care myths and not waste money on ineffective products.
December 31, 2020
Very useful information. Breaks down how to address all.skin concerns.
February 8, 2021
Gratis ontvangen bij aankoop van gelaatsverzorging, een zeer mooie reclamefolder..
February 23, 2021
This is like the skincare bible.
June 19, 2020
BASIC SKIN CARE ROUTINE - 2apply Xday, use right texture for skin type (see below), apply to neck and chest too, and should include these products in this order:
-gentle, water-soluble cleanser (removes oil and dirt; use liquid or lotion style)
-toner (to restore important skincare ingredients; works differently from moisturizers)
-AHA or BHA exfoliant (AHA is glycolic or lactic acid, exfoliates primarily top layer & doesn't cut through oil; BHA is salicylic acid, breaks through oil that clogs pores, is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, & reduces redness, + want concentration of 1-2% and pH of 3-4. Can use both AHA and BHA at same time or alternating, and of differing concentrations. Don't apply to eyelid or along lower lash line)
-optional acne treatment (benzoyl peroxide; want 2.5-5% concentration)
-optional skin lightening treatment for brown spots
-serum (concentrated dose of ingredients, e.g., vit. C, green tea, retinol (highly recommended))
-optional eye cream (if skin under eyes needs different treatment from moisturizer)
-daytime moisturizer w/sunscreen of at least SPF 30 (only mineral-based (zinc, titanium as only active ingredient) in eye area; antioxidants in moisturizer boost sunscreen's effectiveness)
-nighttime moisturizer w/o sunscreen (moisturizers improve softness and helps skin hold on to vital substances)
TEXTURE OF PRODUCTS BASED ON SKIN TYPE:
-Combination / normal to oily skin: gels, liquids, lightweight serums, or lotions
-Normal / normal to dry skin: lotions
-Dry skin: creams
-Oily skin: liquids and gels
IMPORTANT SKINCARE INGREDIENTS (skin produces these naturally but diminish over time & due to skin damage):
-Antioxidants: prevent free-radical damage and inflammation, help skin produce healthy collagen, break down in sunlight and air, e.g., vitamins A, C (ascorbic acid), E, green tea, pomegranate extract
-Skin-Repairing/Identical Ingredients: maintain skin barrier by keeping skin cells connected, repaired, smooth, and moist (like mortar between bricks), e.g., hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
-Cell-Communicating Ingredients: communicate with defective cells, telling them to produce healthier cells, e.g., Retinol (form of vitamin A)
COSMETIC CORRECTIVE PROCEDURES (dermal fillers, Botox injections, laser resurfacing, surgery)
-for best results, do a little bit of each type of procedure spaced out over long period of time; have an ongoing plan to use over lifetime
- Overview: botox injections, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, peels, micro-needling (may help reduce appearance of scars), at-home light devices for wrinkles or acne (with no apparent risks), at-home diode lasers (for wrinkles), at-home laser hair removal.
- She explains lots of different procedures in quite a bit of depth
COSMETIC TIPS
-for dark under eye circles, use a brightening treatment during the day
-you can use all products at once; if combination of products tends to roll or ball up, might be best to allow first product to dry before applying next. Ex: allow sunscreen to set before applying makeup. However, don't apply an antioxidant-rich product at same time as benzoyl peroxide (or let bp absorb first).
-match foundation shade to skin on neck/decolletage
-apply foundation on eyelids up to brow
-smooth out face lines and large pores with a cosmetic wrinkle-filler before applying foundation
-if you wear foundation, use concealer that's only half or one shade lighter; otherwise use same color
-Under-eye concealer is not the same as spot-coverage; need a light- to medium-coverage concealer with a slightly hydrating, satin finish; for brightening, use one with a hint of luminosity
-to lift and sculpt cheeks, apply matte bronzer in hollow of cheekes, and a touch of blush on apple
-to illuminate skin, apply highlighter to cheekbones, bridge of nose, cupid's bow
-for brows: apply brow pencil between hairs for shape/fullness, follow with a brow powder to softly elongate/even out shape and/or add emphasis to arch; add brow tint/mascara
-apply eyeshadow before makeup
-if you have wrinkles, use matte-finish eyeshadows
-apply shadow darker on outer third, then gradually transition to lighter toward middle and inner corner
-once shadow done, add a dab of a lighter shade to center of eyelid
-for softer look, use lighter shade of eyeliner on lower lashes
-use waterproof mascara to hold lash curl
-use a mini fan brush to apply mascara to bottom lashes and coat tops of lashes
-apply concealer to outer corner of lips to give lips a lift
-you can use shampoo or a non lotion-type cleanser to clean brushes
-don't smile as you apply blush
-get a magnifying mirror (4x, 10x)
-get makeup done professionally once a year
-gentle, water-soluble cleanser (removes oil and dirt; use liquid or lotion style)
-toner (to restore important skincare ingredients; works differently from moisturizers)
-AHA or BHA exfoliant (AHA is glycolic or lactic acid, exfoliates primarily top layer & doesn't cut through oil; BHA is salicylic acid, breaks through oil that clogs pores, is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, & reduces redness, + want concentration of 1-2% and pH of 3-4. Can use both AHA and BHA at same time or alternating, and of differing concentrations. Don't apply to eyelid or along lower lash line)
-optional acne treatment (benzoyl peroxide; want 2.5-5% concentration)
-optional skin lightening treatment for brown spots
-serum (concentrated dose of ingredients, e.g., vit. C, green tea, retinol (highly recommended))
-optional eye cream (if skin under eyes needs different treatment from moisturizer)
-daytime moisturizer w/sunscreen of at least SPF 30 (only mineral-based (zinc, titanium as only active ingredient) in eye area; antioxidants in moisturizer boost sunscreen's effectiveness)
-nighttime moisturizer w/o sunscreen (moisturizers improve softness and helps skin hold on to vital substances)
TEXTURE OF PRODUCTS BASED ON SKIN TYPE:
-Combination / normal to oily skin: gels, liquids, lightweight serums, or lotions
-Normal / normal to dry skin: lotions
-Dry skin: creams
-Oily skin: liquids and gels
IMPORTANT SKINCARE INGREDIENTS (skin produces these naturally but diminish over time & due to skin damage):
-Antioxidants: prevent free-radical damage and inflammation, help skin produce healthy collagen, break down in sunlight and air, e.g., vitamins A, C (ascorbic acid), E, green tea, pomegranate extract
-Skin-Repairing/Identical Ingredients: maintain skin barrier by keeping skin cells connected, repaired, smooth, and moist (like mortar between bricks), e.g., hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
-Cell-Communicating Ingredients: communicate with defective cells, telling them to produce healthier cells, e.g., Retinol (form of vitamin A)
COSMETIC CORRECTIVE PROCEDURES (dermal fillers, Botox injections, laser resurfacing, surgery)
-for best results, do a little bit of each type of procedure spaced out over long period of time; have an ongoing plan to use over lifetime
- Overview: botox injections, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, peels, micro-needling (may help reduce appearance of scars), at-home light devices for wrinkles or acne (with no apparent risks), at-home diode lasers (for wrinkles), at-home laser hair removal.
- She explains lots of different procedures in quite a bit of depth
COSMETIC TIPS
-for dark under eye circles, use a brightening treatment during the day
-you can use all products at once; if combination of products tends to roll or ball up, might be best to allow first product to dry before applying next. Ex: allow sunscreen to set before applying makeup. However, don't apply an antioxidant-rich product at same time as benzoyl peroxide (or let bp absorb first).
-match foundation shade to skin on neck/decolletage
-apply foundation on eyelids up to brow
-smooth out face lines and large pores with a cosmetic wrinkle-filler before applying foundation
-if you wear foundation, use concealer that's only half or one shade lighter; otherwise use same color
-Under-eye concealer is not the same as spot-coverage; need a light- to medium-coverage concealer with a slightly hydrating, satin finish; for brightening, use one with a hint of luminosity
-to lift and sculpt cheeks, apply matte bronzer in hollow of cheekes, and a touch of blush on apple
-to illuminate skin, apply highlighter to cheekbones, bridge of nose, cupid's bow
-for brows: apply brow pencil between hairs for shape/fullness, follow with a brow powder to softly elongate/even out shape and/or add emphasis to arch; add brow tint/mascara
-apply eyeshadow before makeup
-if you have wrinkles, use matte-finish eyeshadows
-apply shadow darker on outer third, then gradually transition to lighter toward middle and inner corner
-once shadow done, add a dab of a lighter shade to center of eyelid
-for softer look, use lighter shade of eyeliner on lower lashes
-use waterproof mascara to hold lash curl
-use a mini fan brush to apply mascara to bottom lashes and coat tops of lashes
-apply concealer to outer corner of lips to give lips a lift
-you can use shampoo or a non lotion-type cleanser to clean brushes
-don't smile as you apply blush
-get a magnifying mirror (4x, 10x)
-get makeup done professionally once a year
July 23, 2022
Paula's Choice VN tặng free nên mình đọc cho vui thôi =))) không thích cũng không ghét, cơ mà chỉ thấy buồn cười mỗi lần hết một chương thì tác giả là thêm vào một list những sản phẩm của PC mà "phù hợp" với vấn đề da được đề cập trong chương đó. Nói công bằng thì tác giả xuất bản sách cũng chỉ để pr cho mỹ phẩm của mình, nên thay vì phải mua và đọc mấy cái như này (check giá bìa thấy 450k mà hú hồn), mình thấy cứ tra trên mạng đọc cho tiện, lại miễn phí và khách quan.
February 17, 2016
It's really, really repetitive and could have used an editor, but it was mostly intentional. As a longtime fan, I had a good background in the material but understand even more now. Would recommend buying a Kindle version so you can highlight and bookmark, but also because the hardcopy itself is low-quality.
July 1, 2016
If you're read another paula's book and article, you'd know what to expect and more importantly, most of her intentions.
This book doesn't have many new information rather than her web page but it comes handy to have it in printed form.
This book doesn't have many new information rather than her web page but it comes handy to have it in printed form.
February 12, 2016
Really a 3+ rating. Good book to check out of the library if you are interested in the ingredients found in cosmetics. Great cosmetic ingredient dictionary. Who knew witch hazel is bad, bad, bad?
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