fave products // cosmedix elite revive & renew boosting serum & alt-a rejuvenating moisturizer

I love clean skincare and usually gravitate towards those types of products since they jive well with sensitive skin. Not to mention they tend to be cruelty-free with no nasty ingredients. But I can’t lie and say that I sometimes don’t miss the effectiveness of medical grade skincare. Medical grade skincare tends to have a higher concentration of active ingredients in the products, and also has clinical research that backs up the claims of the reported benefits. It’s not always easy to find a brand that that is both clean and medical grade, which is why I’m thrilled to have discovered Cosmedix! All Cosmedix products exclude parabens, petrolatum, mineral oil, PEGs, sodium lauryl sulfate, hydroquinone, glycolic acid, formaldehyde donors and artificial dyes & fragrances. Not to mention they’re cruelty free as well! In addition, Cosmedix was founded by skilled aestheticians and nurse practitioners using strict formulation standards, superior innovation, and skin-loving ingredients. The higher concentration of active ingredients in their formulas really work their magic, and are even better when paired with professional treatments from their spa partners. Best of both worlds!

Cosmedix recently launched a line of Elite products, which were previously only available in spas with certified aestheticians, so I was very excited to add these high performing formulas to my routine. The Cosmedix Elite Revive & Renew Renewal Boosting Serum is an anti-aging powerhouse that works to fight the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dull, lackluster skin. Three plant-derived growth factors (think age-defying botanicals like Japanese orchid stem cell extract) deeply condition the skin, helping to rejuvenate and hydrate, while leaving you with a glowing, radiant complexion. They also help protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution, which is so clutch as well. After incorporating this serum into my routine the last several weeks, I’ve noticed my complexion looking more firm, vibrant, and healthy. Love a refreshed look, especially as we head into summer!

I’ve been following up the serum with the Cosmedix Elite Alt-A Daily Rejuvenating Moisturizer. I was excited to learn that this super hydrating but gentle moisturizer is formulated with a plant-based retinol alternative called bakuchiol. Since I’ve essentially been pregnant and/or breastfeeding for the majority of the last five years, retinol has been out of the question, which is quite the bummer! Known for it’s highly effective anti-aging benefits, retinol is a popular skincare choice for many people my age. However, it can be quite irritating for some, and since it’s also a no-no while nursing, I’ve had to search for alternatives. Bakuchiol works just like retinol does to reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles and promote a more even skin tone & texture, but without the irritation and sensitivity. Talk about packing a gentle but powerful punch! I’ve been loving the velvety smooth texture of this moisturizer, and can definitely notice my skin looking brighter and feeling much softer and more hydrated with continued use.

The Elite products don’t come cheap, but I can truly say they are worth the money. Regardless, you should check out some of the other Cosmedix Bestsellers as well- so many great products to be had (hello Harmonize Microbiome Boosting Moisturizer!). Noticeable results are what I’m after- like all of us I imagine- and I can safely say that Cosmedix delivers!

 * This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, it won’t cost you a penny more, but I’ll earn a small commission. This allows me to continue to generate content for you, and helps keep the site up and running. Thanks for your support! 


fave products // furtuna skin rituale luminoso transformation set

Furtuna Skin had been on my must-try list for quite some time now. So I was super excited to get the opportunity to try out a specially curated set, known as the Rituale Luminoso Transformation Travel Set, which includes a micellar essence, a face & eye serum, and a moisturizing face oil. For those who don’t know, all of Furtuna Skin's products originate on their own organic farm in Sicily! This set includes sweet-smelling, wild foraged botanicals designed to help transform your skin.

Furtuna believes in the fundamental pillars of skincare, and that is reflected in the dual action formulas of each of these products. First up, in pillar one, you’ll prepare skin with Acqua Serena Micellar Essence, a cleanser and toner in one that removes impurities, balances pH, and soothes for a radiantly bright complexion. Pillar two involves treating the skin with Porte Per La Vitalità Face and Eye Serum, a dual-use, supercharged treatment for the face and eye area that absorbs in a flash for an instant glowing transformation. Key hydration comes into play in pillar 3 with Due Alberi Biphase Moisturizing Oil, a two-in-one bioactive blend for plumping moisture, antioxidant protection, barrier moisture repair, and Vitamin C to help support skin’s natural collagen synthesis. These three essentials create a transformative ritual (like the name of the set implies) that leave skin luminously smooth and protected, while helping to soften fine lines and restoring the skin’s overall resilience.

Thanks to natural ingredients like olive oil and anchusa azurea, both of which are packed with vitamins and fatty acids to nourish, rejuvenate and soothe your complexion, you’ll be saying hello to glowing, luminous skin in no time. Not to mention, this set is already the perfect size for on-the-go, so you can take it with you on all your travels as well. Since Furtuna is not exactly a budget-friendly brand, it’s also a great intro set to get you acquainted with the brand, in case you’ve been interested in trying it out for yourself!

 * This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, it won’t cost you a penny more, but I’ll earn a small commission. This allows me to continue to generate content for you, and helps keep the site up and running. Thanks for your support!