This 4-Piece Skincare Essentials Set Is a (Worthy) Splurge for Beginners
When it comes to kicking off a skincare routine, it's tough to know what will be effective for you.
While some people (myself, for example) can pretty much apply anything to their face without a major freakout, other people's skin can go crazy over the application of even a light toner. That's why I always suggest starting with just the essentials, and looking into less aggressive ingredients until you know what reacts well with your skin.
Regardless of how many products I use regularly, I'm always on the hunt for anything that enhances moisture, so when a rep for Dr. Trevor Cates' The Spa Dr. line reached out about reviewing her four-part daily essentials kit, I immediately said "yes." I was, in particular, looking for a new face oil at the time (I go through face oil quicker than any other product)—and it just so happened Dr. Cates' line includes a product called Glow Boost (perfect!).
The Products
The daily essentials kit comes in four parts: Gentle Cleanser, Antioxidant Serum, Enriched Moisturizer and Glow Boost. The cost for the full kit is $199, and each product is non-toxic. The kit is said to last approximately 30-45 days, depending on usage. If you want to test a five-day sample kit, you can purchase at cost of shipping HERE for $29.99.
Gentle Cleanser
Made primarily with argan, almond, coconut and sunflower oils, the Gentle Cleanser is activated by water to remove makeup and impurities from the skin. In addition to a light cleansing, it replaces lost lipids and restores your skin's natural pH. It's naturally scented with organic virgin white coconut. If you want to purchase a full size of just the cleanser, you can do so HERE for $39.99.
Antioxidant Serum
This water and oil-based product contains natural ingredients said to instantly hydrate and nourish the skin, and combat aging, environmental stress and inflammation. The light, noninvasive fragrance comes from a blend of organic essential oils. The product comes in an airless pump, so you get the right amount without having to dip your fingers in a jar (which can contaminate skin care products). If you want to purchase a full size of just the serum, you can do so HERE for $69.99.
Enriched Moisturizer
This water, oil and tea-based solution is said to naturally restore your skin, protect against oxidative damage and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It protects skin against dryness and aging, and renews skin for a softer, clearer complexion. If you want to purchase a full size of just the moisturizer, you can do so HERE for $59.99.
Glow Boost
The coveted face oil of the kit hydrates with a blend of natural organic plant oils (including cranberry, pomegranate and raspberry seed). These contain high amounts of fatty acids, powerful antioxidants and some Vitamin E and CoQ10 to ensure skin is fully enhanced. It helps smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The brand calls this product "liquid gold" because of its "powerful effects on promoting the youthful appearance of skin." Coming in a much tinier bottle than the aforementioned products in the kit, it may seem overpriced, but the company assures this item is well worth it. If you want to purchase a full size of just the glow boost, you can do so HERE for $79.99.
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The Experience
I'll begin by saying that I wear quite a bit of makeup on a typical day, so I generally steer clear from gentle cleansers. I opt for cleansers that I can depend on to remove my makeup, as well as clean my skin. That said, because I had The Spa Dr.'s product in front of me, I gave it a whirl. I applied three pumps to my face and rubbed for a minute with warm water. After rinsing, I tried applying a nightly serum, but it felt weird and I could tell my makeup wasn't fully off. I then went in for another round of cleansing (but this time with the 3-in-1 cleanser that I typically use), and I felt good as new. Going off of that experience, I, personally wouldn't use The Spa Dr. cleanser at night, but I think this is a great morning product, because you don't want to go too rough or frequent with the washes.
When it comes to the serum and moisturizer, it's recommended to add a couple drops of the Glow Boost to each before application. It adds an extra dab of moisture, and, well, glow—and I'm here for it! The serum, moisturizer and Glow Boost are lightweight. They definitely give me the added hydration I'm craving, but without feeling like I'm wearing a mask.
That said, based on my experimentation, I've really gotten the maximized effect by adding a layer of Bold & Bare's brand new Bare Elixir underneath the Antioxidant Serum. This product is also lightweight and simply enhances the hydration effect. To top it all off at the end of my routine, I apply a few pumps of Mizz Bloom's Nourish Organic Face Oil. It comes with much more product than the Glow Boost, so if you want added glow, without using up all of the Boost, tack on Mizz Bloom's product, and you'll end up with that lasting shine you crave. I attended two weddings last weekend, and using the combo of all products listed in this article, I've gotta say, my skin looked amazing!
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Bottom Line
With the exception of the cleanser, I'd use all of The Spa Dr.'s products regularly. They're lightweight, they don't irritate my skin, and they give me an added glow. As far as long-term benefits go, like with any new skincare product, it usually takes at least a few weeks to a month to see major changes in the skin. But for day-to-day wear, this kit is something I'd absolutely advise for people just getting into skincare. These ingredients aren't harsh, and the kit is recommended for all skin types.
While the price of the kit is indeed a bit steep, it does include all the beginner's basics generally recommended by dermatologists—and, most importantly, the ingredients are safe and known to be beneficial to the skin. I also really like that you can purchase a trial kit for just the cost of shipping. I recommend initially going that route to see how your skin takes to the products, and to decide if you want to prolong their use.
Lastly, I really like that the products are numbered, making it so much easier to determine which to use when. Even experienced skincare product users like myself get confused from time to time. This really helps—as do the details listed on the back of each bottle.
Are skincare terms overwhelming you? Click HERE for the most important words to know, and what they mean!