Makeup Is Now Optional! By Jennifer Regan on - Updated Oct 15, 2011
I'm always on the search for great skincare products. I have combination skin, and tend to breakout a little. I don't like products that clog your pores or make your skin even shinier.
I had heard good things about Philosophy before, so when I saw that Sephora.com had a sale on their kits, I decided to try it. I chose the Make-Up Optional Kit for Congested Skin, because the description said it would minimize pores, reduce shine, and clear up trouble spots – in other words, leave your skin nice enough that you don't have to wear make-up. Sounds good to me!
The kit comes with 5 pieces, all in “travel” sizes– cleanser, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, eye cream, and a facial peel. My first thought was that this was an awful lot of steps, but I figured I bought it, so I'll use it and see how it goes. After just a few days of using the products, morning and night, I noticed a HUGE difference in my skin. My pores were smaller, I had fewer blemishes, and I didn't seem to be as shiny. I was a little worried that there wasn't an exfoliant, but the once a week peel covers that. My skin felt so soft and “new” after the peel. I have sensitive skin, and the peel wasn't hard at all.
My only complaint is the smell of the moisturizer. Instead of putting the salicylic acid (acne fighter) in the cleanser like most companies do, Philosophy put it in the moisturizer. This gives the product a bit of a chemical smell, but it's not too bad. There is a warning on the moisturizer that if your skin gets too dry, you should only use the product once a day. I haven't had any problem with that though.
I bought the kit about 3 weeks ago, and will need to replenish in about another week or so. The peel only comes 3 packets, and it's a once a week gig, so the kit is supposed to last about 3-4 weeks.
I'd highly recommend this kit to anyone who wants to clear up their skin and stop wearing make-up. I still wear powder, but I haven't had to touch foundation since I started using the kit! It may seem a bit pricey, but since I'm not spending money on foundation, I think it all evens out!!
About The Author:
Philosophy Makeup Optional Kit for Congested Skin Purchased at: Sephora Price: 78.00
Sounds like a good product .I have oily skin and have acne problem.I have used different type of products and cleansers etc.This looks like a good product and anything giving me good skin can't be overlooked for being pricy .Thanks forthe information
Wow - $78 every 3-4 weeks? Ouch! Good thing it works though.
I love Philosophy! And LJohnson should know that the larger sizes are better values, so if it works for you, go for the big ones. Also watch for specials on QVC, they often sell it there. Like I said, I LOVE Philosophy. I have dry and sensitive skin, and they have products that work for me too!
Philosophy has really changed my skin. I don't wear any facial makeup any longer. I only use the Present. And the microdermabrasion product works wonders for skin that needs a little perking up.