I am serious about skincare. I cleanse, tone and moisturize twice a day and use dermatologist-prescribed creams. So, when I find a product that is slightly pricey, but works great on my skin, I have no qualms shelling out a few too many dollars to maintain my pimple-free complexion. These are the items I think are worth spending a pretty penny on:
1. Estée Lauder Illuminating Perfecting Primer, $32 — I've tried a lot of primers, and this is by far my best find. The formula is super-soft, goes on smooth, and after just one use, I noticed my skin was radiant and that my foundation sat evenly on my face, creating a flawless complexion. Your makeup won't be going anywhere anytime soon.
2. Boscia Luminizing Black Mask, $34 — This is my favorite mask, ever. I don't use it often because I am trying to get my $34 worth, but every time I apply it, my skin feels rejuvenated. It also shrinks the pores around my nose.
3. StriVectin-EV Get Even Spot Repair, $49 — Finally! There is a dark spot corrector that actually works. Within the first two weeks of using of this product, there was a noticeable difference in my embarrassing blemish marks. It's also gentle on sensitive skin — all you do is apply it twice a day over targeted areas after you moisturize. Within four weeks, any old and new dark spots will be almost invisible.
4. Tend Skin, $50 — Although this product is meant for razor bumps and ingrown hairs, I also use it as a toner. It fights blemishes just like it does shaving-related ailments.
5. Clarisonic Mia, $133.50 — For years, I had been skeptical about this device. I just couldn't fathom spending over $100 on a facial cleansing system. But, after a friend told me she swears by it, I decided to try it out. The Clarisonic is great for sweeping all the makeup off of your face, making your skin feel freshly-clean and smooth. It's most effective when used with the cleanser provided in the package, but I pair it with various face washes.
Dara Adeeyo is a nail polish junkie who blogs her beauty diary on Dark Berry Beauty.
