Chicks, I did something really bad. I need to tell someone about it, so I am telling you. I went on a bit of a bender. A beauty bender. Inspired by our Skincare Review of the Week, I did some major replenishing and went on a skincare shopping spree. It wasn't pretty, though hopefully I will be (wink, wink)! 

I've been dealing with some weird skin issues these past few months and my regular routine isn't working, so I decided to switch it up and to do a complete overhaul and try out some new products. So, obviously, a big spree was like, totally necessary. 

Sidenote: I don't know how much science is involved in this theory I have but I swear my skin seems to acclimatize to certain brands and products and I need to change it up every few months. Anyone else find this? 

Now, I am completely in love with everything I've binged on so far (and there is a lot) and since we're all about sharing what we love over at CA, I wanted to tell you what I grabbed! 


1. Vichy Normaderm 3-In-1 Cleanser + Scrub + Mask (US$20.00): I'm loving the fact that this is a combination cleanser/scrub/mask. It really feels like I get a good deep clean.

2. Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Treatment Mask (C$15.97): I love sheet masks (an Asian import), so when a North American company jumped on the bandwagon, I jumped on with them. 

3. Live Clean Moisturizing Body Wash in Fresh Water (C$6.99): I've been trying to incorporate more organic, natural and environmentally friendly products into my beauty routine. I like that this body wash is made of 96% replenishable, renewable and sustainable plant ingredients and is paraben and sulfate free. 

4. Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate (C$48.00): I've always been afraid of using oils on my face but I just started using this and it's been a nice, light intro to face oils. It's very moisturizing and smells absolutely amazing. I love the smell as I drift off to sleep! 

5. Laneige Water Sleeping Pack (US$22.40): This one is an oldie but a goodie. I will never stop singing it's praises. I ran out the other day (gasp!) and immediately needed to replace it. 


Pure+simple Light Kapha Body Oil (C$24.95): I love using oils on my body. They seem to last longer than a regular lotion on my skin. This particular oil isn't too heavy and with mustard seed oil is anti-inflammatory. It goes on a bit mentholy but dries and settles to be quite light. 

Pure+simple Purifying Kit (C$25.00) This kit contains travel size versions of 4 products: Pure + simple Pure Skin Face Wash, Pure + simple Skin Softening Moisture Lotion (20ml), Pure + simple Purifying French Clay Mask (20ml), Pure + simple Pure Skin Face Oil (20ml). I couldn't resist the chance to test them all out. I love that it's deep cleaning and I'm so excited to try out the face oil and mask. 


1. Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar (C$5.99): A beauty DIY staple! ACV contains lactic acid, used as a peel. 

2. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (C$19.99): I've been hearing SO much about this on various beauty blogs and I finally broke down and bought a tub. It's a great price for the amount you get and it contains hyalauronic acid to help rebuild your moisture barrier. 

3. NOW Foods Bentonite Powder (C$29.99): I got a huge jug of bentonite clay powder so I can make my own masks. For the millionth time, I love a mask. 

4. Derma e Tea Tree & E Antiseptic Creme (US$11.10): Tea tree oil is one of my favourite antibacterial products but it can be quite drying. I love that it comes in this heavier cream. 


(clockwise from top left) Lush Masks in Cosmetic Warrior, Cupcake and Catastrophe Cosmetic (C$6.95, each): This was my first time using these Lush masks and I thought they were quite effective. The cupcake mask is especially great for oil control and the catastrophe cosmetic for calming down your skin. Pro Tip: Don't be three at once! They expire and you'll be left with pots of expired masks.

I also bought some books about beauty. 'Cause you gotta keep educated! 


Vogue Beauty By Juliet Cohen (C$15.64)
 
Return to Beauty: Old-World Recipes for Great Radiant Skin By Narine Nikogosian (C$19.99)

Bobbi Brown Beauty Evolution: A Guide to a Lifetime of Beauty By Bobbi Brown (C$24.56)

I'm so head over heels with everything I purchased. Everything on this list I purchased over the course of about a month, though I would like you (and my credit card company) to know that this splurge is NOT a regular occurrence! 

Now let's play show and tell! Tell me what beauty goodies you've bought recently, which are your faves and why!