Blessed Are The Pure of Skin

Day 3: Shiseido Pureness Products
By Melanie Parker

There are a few ways that stress manifests itself in me physically--through my skin texture and hair loss. Both are equally alarming. I made 2009 my year to do some serious damage repair to my skin after experiencing five deaths in my family in less than a year in 2008. So, when Annie decided to do a skincare project for the 40 days of lent in 2010, I am glad that my research and experiences in trying to restore my skin can be shared. I will be focusing on readily available products that work for my aging yet acne prone skin, as well as two types laser therapy treatments I used through the recommendation of my dermatologist.

I first learned about the Shiseido Pureness line years ago and have been using it inconsistently. Whenever I begin getting cystic acne, I always go back to it. This begs the question of why I always opt for the cheap route and stray away from it after it turns my skin around. Not any more. I have learned my lesson and four of these Shiseido Pureness products are my holy grail. If you have oily or combination skin that is prone to breakouts, I recommend trying this line of products for 2 months. I think you will be very pleased with the results.

I use the Shiseido Pureness Deep Cleansing Foam every morning and evening. A little goes a long way. You really don't need more than a pea-sized amount. I like to give the cleanser time to foam up and really do its work, so I sing the alphabet song to myself while lightly massaging the cleanser in a circular motion, making sure to concentrate around my nose and on my chin where I am most prone to acne.

The Shiseido Pureness Matifying Moisturizer is the only moisturizer that I can wear under makeup and trust that it will not clog my pores or make my mineral makeup look chalky. It's especially important in my under eye/cheekbone area where my skin does actually get dry. My T-zone is oily enough that I don't really need additional moisture.

The Shiseido Pureness Balancing Softener Alcohol-Free is a refreshing fluid that leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. Although it looks like a toner, I can't really call it a toner since it isn't stripping oil or trying to balance. Instead, it works with the deep cleansing foam to clean and calm my skin. I use about 4 pumps on a cotton pad and swipe my face and chest every night. I do not use it in the morning under makeup, but if my skin was dry and flaky from the winter air, I probably would. My pores look so clean and my skin is so soft and radiant after cleanising using these two products.

After applying the softner in the evening, I use a perscription Tazorac cream on my cheeks and chin where I am trying to refine the texture of my skin. I find the Tazorac works well with the Shiseido Pureness Blemish Clearing Gel applied to active pimples. With these products, active outbreaks are very rare. I make sure to use fresh pillow cases (one day per side, then in the laundry basket they go) and hold the phone away from my chin to prevent irritation. I also try to drink 8 glasses/bottles of water per day. If I eat salty foods, I increase my water intake more to compensate.

Shiseido Pureness products are found at most department stores. There are several other products in the Pureness line that I have not had the opportunity to try. If you have, please leave a comment and let us know your results.

Disclosure: This product was purchased by the reviewer.
Graphic Credit: melanie Parker/Veronica Lake in I Married A Witch
Photo Credit: Blogdorf Goodman