Simone's Six Things
Entering the third trimester...sharing my complete skincare routine...other tips, tricks, and thoughts!
Catching up
Happy Sunday! Hope everyone has had a restful, fulfilling, and happy weekend so far. In case you did not know, the time changed at 2AM this morning. Apparently daylight saving time always begins on the second Sunday of March, and ends on the first Sunday of November. So it will be in effect until Nov. 3, 2024, when clocks "fall back."
I guess my biggest update this week is that I entered my third trimester of pregnancy. When I was pregnant with Teddy, the third trimester felt like the home stretch. But I know better now. If you have this mindset, it can feel shocking when baby is born and you realize it is really just the start! With Teddy, I kept counting down to my due date and I find that a lot of first time moms do that as well. While it is normal to feel eager and anxious, there is NO need to put that unnecessary pressure on yourself and if anything, that anticipation will just stifle labor from starting. Stress hormones are the antithesis to oxytocin which cues contractions. Our bodies are so smart and just as grass doesn’t strain itself to grow, a baby is on his/her own timeline too. Not yours!
Between Teddy, Shop De Cru, and everything in between it is hard to find time to put my feet up, rest, and write— let alone the fact that the last three months of pregnancy can be physically uncomfortable. Most visibly, the belly gets larger and larger and in the 8th month, baby doubles in size! But there are other common things that occur— interrupted sleep, round ligament pain, heartburn, varicose veins, back pain, restless legs, braxton hicks (practice contractions)… just to name a few. Yesterday was International Women’s Day so I think it is fitting to say, women go through a lot of physical and emotional transformation and have incredible resilience.
During the third trimester, there is a major hormonal change happening too that is more or less invisible but can subconsciously be felt by your loved ones—especially your little ones. Teddy has been glued to my hip and apart from us having a very strong bond, I think it has a lot to do with oxytocin…
In the third trimester, Oxytocin rises substantially as it is released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland. Its main function is facilitating childbirth by boosting the production of prostaglandin which in turn cues those uterine contraction. Oxytocin is the love hormone and it is not exclusive to pregnant women by any means—it helps us bond with others and can be released through touch, music, and exercise.
Oxytocin, like endorphins or serotonin, is a type of hormone in your body that promotes positive feelings. Women whose labor is slow to proceed are sometimes given oxytocin (Pitocin) to speed up the process. Pitocin has become a very common induction method these days… and gosh those Pitocin induced contractions are something else. Pitocin can be necessary for pregnancies that exceed 42 weeks or for labors that are stalling/slow to progress. But at the same time, induction has become extremely normalized for low risk/uncomplicated pregnancies and I find women to be fear mongered into having them. I am no medical expert and of course this is just based on my personal experience. More on this another time…
So basically Teddy feels all that oxytocin, needs my full attention, and so I can’t come to the phone right now :)
What else? Shop De Cru had a very strong sales week and Teddy and I tried to rescue a bumble bee. The bee was drowning in the pool and we used a pool net to get her out. She did not move for about a week so we figured she was dead. On Wednesday, we went to go check on her, and she was moving! We offered her some sugar water which seemed to give her energy for a few days. Bumble bees have a very short lifespan (which I did not know) — about 4 weeks. You can tell if a bumble bee is getting old because it will get exhausted and stop flying. You may mistaken it for dead but it is likely not. Also, its hair will start to get patchy. Can you tell that I did some research? Lol. Anyways, Teddy cannot go outside without immediately going to check on his bee. I don’t think she is doing very well…her hair is patchy and she is not as energetic as she was slurping up the sugar water a few days ago. But hey! We did our best! And made her comfortable.
What’s in my cart?
The only thing in my cart this week is a restock of my skincare. As the season changes, some of my products start to run out and that’s my cue to restock. It’s the perfect timing to replenish and also assess what my skin is craving.
For years, I have shared my skincare routine with family and friends. My skincare favorites have evolved and fluctuated over the years as my skin has stabilized a lot. Also, with two pregnancies, my skin needs changed too! Throughout it all, I have stayed very loyal to Biologique Recherche. Free from fragrances and formulated in France, it is truly the real deal.
The Biologique Recherche methodology has a reputation for incredible effectiveness based on a clinical approach to beauty care using intentionally pure, concentrated, raw ingredients, as well as innovative and meticulous protocols and procedures. If you’re not feeling great about your skincare routine, I think this could be a total game changer for you.
Just a disclaimer—since BR is fragrance free, the raw smell of the ingredients can take some getting used to. I am also really into Valmont — it has been around since 1985 and is based in Switzerland. It has the most pleasant scent and cooling sensation on the skin and works really well for normal skin and anti-aging.
My skincare routine:
My priority is a quick, effective, low maintenance routine. Here is a complete routine below. I tend to skip the toner and serums if my skin is feeling stable or I am rushing:
1. Cleanser: Lait VIP 02 by Biologique Recherche
I have been using the same milky cleanser for 7 years. I love the consistency. While it really cleanses the skin, it does not leave your face feeling stripped and dry. It is gentle yet thorough and will leave your face glowing. This is a top recommendation.
2. Toner: P50V 1970 by Biologique Recherche
This is universally a cult favorite and what BR is known for. It is a magic potion in a bottle that prevents skin aging. It comes in different strengths, but the reason I am recommending this one is because it is a medium strength all-in-one toner that balances and gently exfoliates the skin. This has a mild amount of phenol which essentially freezes the skin aging process. I have not been using this while I am pregnant but if you are pregnant, you can purchase this version without the phenol in it (P50V). The French really do have the best beauty secrets.
3. Serums:
Hydrating—Amniotique Sérum Authentique
Extra dry? I do the Amniotique serum after I cleanse and tone. It is very hydrating.Reducing Pores—Dermopore Sérum Authentique
Pores are looking more pronounced or I have some visible black heads? I will put the Dermopore on my nose and chin.
Blemish Spot Treatment—Complexe Iribiol Serum Authentique
Some blemishes? To spot treat a blemish, I put a dab of the Complexe Iribiol Serum and it absolutely makes the blemish go away. I swear by it.I often skip using serums if I am keeping my routine simple and my skin is stable. BUT, if I am noticing that different areas of my face needs attention (for instance—redness, a blemish, dryness) I will use these serums according to the issue.
4. Face Cream:
The face cream you choose should be very intentional and ultimately based on two factors. First, it should be based on the season or climate that you live in. At the same time, you should be choosing a moisturizer that is suitable for how your skin is feeling at this point in time (dry, normal, or oily). I have included 4 of my favorite face creams based on different environmental factors and skin needs:
Crème Dermopurifiante: When I was working to get my skin balanced (smooth texture, even tone, no blemishes), Crème Dermopurifiante was extremely important in getting me there. It targeted my problem areas and really got me to an incredible baseline. Since I am based in GA (a warmer climate) and my skin is stable, this is not currently my daily cream as this is best for cooler/mild climates. This is the best cream for getting your skin stabilized, even, and blemish free.
Emulsion Gel Bionsensible: This cream dispenses very easily as its a pump. This makes it very easy to use, especially if you have longer nails. The cream is universal and great for combination or normal skin. The texture is smooth, it is not too heavy, and it really works year round. This has no smell whereas other BR products tend to smell more organic or even a little bit stinky as they are fragrance fee.
Creme Grand Millesime: This is often what they use if you go get a BR facial. This brightens the skin a lot and gives it that glowy look. It is more so the consistency of Dermopurifiante and has a more organic smell. I typically use this before I apply makeup if I have a night out because it is the perfect base/primer.
Creme Masque Vernix: This was inspired by the protective layer on baby at birth, reconditions, and gives "second birth" to the epidermis. Ideal for deficient and/or stressed skin this will give you that soft baby skin result! You can use this as a 1-hour mask treatment, but I love to use this as an overnight cream (no need to wash off). You will wake up with baby skin! I kid you not…
5. Eye Cream: V-Line Lifting Eye Cream
This is such a splurge. This tiny bottle is $270 but a little goes a long way since you just use it around your eyes. I have tried different eye creams over the years, and I absolutely see the most results with this one. It really does reduce fine lines and crows feet at the corners of the eyes. It also plumps underneath the eye just subtly and it makes me look much less tired.
6. Finishing Serum: Fluide VIP 02
When you get a Biologique Recherche facial, this is the finishing serum that they put at the end that gives you that “I just had a rejuvenating facial” look. Your skin will glow like you’ve never seen before. This is great to use at the very end of your routine. This is a nice to have not a must have. I would also put this in the splurge category.
Removing Makeup
Icy Falls by Valmont: From Switzerland, this is favorite product to remove makeup. It comes in a big round jar and has this incredible consistency, scent, and cooling sensation. To use, massage a small amount of product onto the face and rinse with lukewarm water or a damp cloth. Avoid the eyes. I love how quick and easy this is since a big priority for me is being low maintenance and efficient with my skincare. It does not dry out your face and works to strip the makeup, purify, and hydrate.
Eau Micellaire Biosensible: This is perfect if you prefer to take your makeup off with Micellaire Water. I also use this micellaire water if I am feeling really tired and just want to clean my face quickly, skip cleansing and moisturizing, and just go to bed. It is cleansing and hydrating enough that it won’t dry out your skin and is a good quick solution.
Solution Demaquillante Pour Les Yeux: To remove your eye makeup, this one by BR is super gentle and effective.
Masks
When I was trying to get my skin balanced, I used certain masks that were extremely effective. If you are going to mask, do this after the cleansing and toning. Then after you’re done masking, you would do the serums and face lotions.
Masque Vivant: This is a cult favorite but let me warn you, this is stinky! If you cabn get past that, it is sooo incredibly effective! This will balance out your skin like nothing else will. Put this all over your face or more as a spot treatment, let it dry out, wash off, and finish of with the Crème Dermopurifiante and you will see results almost instantly.
Masque VIP 02: You can combine this with Masque Vivant to make it more hydrating. That way, you won’t get that dried out feeling on your face if that bothers you. You can also put Masque VIP 02 under your eyes as a brightening mask.
Skincare roundup
All of the products I mentioned are compiled HERE.
Biologique Recherche products state exactly what their use is right on the product. So if you have other skin concerns I did not mention, you can generally navigate the site and find exactly what you need. Aida Bicaj has the complete BR and Valmont collection. Aida Bicaj is a spa in New York that specializes in BR facials.
Take the skin quiz!
Obviously these are the products that work for my skin type. If you have combination skin like me that is not prone to recurring acne and craves hydration, this routine would be suitable for you. Otherwise, I created this little quiz for you below. I have been a BR and Valmont user for so long and at this point know, and to some degree, have used a majority of their product line. I have also had a lot of BR facials over the years in different cities and know what products are cult favorites. I feel confident in making a recommendation for you. Take the skin quiz below, and I will send you a list of products I would suggest based on your skin—
Toddler Tip
This is more so of a carseat tip for mamas with long nails. It takes one to know one. If you are struggling to press the button on the carseat, I have just the hack for you! Buy this unbuckle me tool and keep it in the side door. Your nails and knuckle will thank you later.
What I am watching
It has definitely been the season of reality TV. I have been shamelessly watching The Bachelor and Love is Blind. Spoiler if you did not watch last Monday…Maria was sent home! It was getting messy between them and I felt like she was starting to play games with Joey. She also missed her opportunity to express her feelings at the end of her hometown date. Ultimately, I think Joey pulled away because reciprocation is a big priority for him. I also think their connection was rooted more in lust than a burgeoning love. I am still thinking that Kelsey A will get the final rose. They have undeniable chemistry and there seems to be something very pure between them! Her hometown date was so precious. We will know more on Monday…who do you think will end up with Joey?
This season of Love is Blind was so wild. The point of the show is to not make it about looks. Well…one of the women on the show did not really get that memo and initiates a celebrity look alike game. This set her up to say that her doppelgänger is Megan Fox. She was picked and that couple unraveled… while the woman who was not chosen informs him that he will need an inhaler as he will choke when he sees her. I still do not understand how this guy managed to get two women to be so smitten by him. The whole thing is just way too entertaining and exactly what I need after I put Teddy down for the night. I think Wednesday is the reunion on netflix.
Photo of the week
This is from one of Teddy’s favorite books — I am a Bunny by Nicholas Scarry —which at this point I can recite from memory. Whenever we get to this page, I tell Teddy that the bunny is in his crib and wearing his sleep sack. This image and the text just felt super fitting with spring approaching. The illustrations in this book are some of the most beautiful I have seen in a children’s book. It is the perfect book to give to someone for Easter. Linking it here in case you want to add it to your little one’s book stack or gift it— I am a Bunny by Nicholas Scarry.
Quote of the week
“A mistake that is repeated more than once is a decision”
Paulo Coelho
This quote really got my attention so I wanted to share it. I find that at this point in my life, I completely agree. I make an effort to learn from my mistakes, adjust, and not step on that rake twice. This quote is a good reminder that if you make the same mistake over and over again, you lose the privilege of calling it that. It becomes a conscious decision.
Parting words
Teddy will be waking up from his nap soon, so I’ve got to go! I hope you enjoyed this week’s six things! Be sure to take the Skin Quiz above and enjoy your Sunday!
