Monday Musings – Copper, Lapis Blue and an Outfit of the Week
Happy Monday, ladies. This week’s musings are all over the map, but then that’s to be expected for this day when I give you a peek into what’s happening in my world.
We’re having the weirdest late spring weather. One day is warm…the next has a cold breeze and gray skies, but the California poppies are out, so spring is here! Changeable weather may be normal in other areas, but the weather here is usually predictable and, frankly, quite boring because of it. I’ve taken to packing for any and every occasion for my grandson’s little league games. I was very grateful for my down parka on Saturday afternoon, but I had the sun beating directly into my eyes for over an hour and wish I’d brought a sun umbrella. We drive there in my husband’s car, so I have to think about what to bring each time. I think I’ll pack a bag and keep it ready to grab and go for the foreseeable future.
I’m a bit of a skincare and makeup nut and am constantly trying new products. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about clean and cruelty-free beauty lately. They often go hand in hand, but occasionally, it’s either one or the other. I’d prefer a product that ticks both boxes, but if forced to make a choice, I go for cruelty-free first. Which would you choose first?
Copper Peptides For Skin
In that vein, I’ve been digging back into skin care products and loving what I’m finding. I know that copper peptides are a great antioxidant for our skin. They’re naturally occurring amino acids that help stimulate collagen production, repair skin barriers, reduce fine lines, and smooth rough skin.
Copper Peptides are also reported to reduce photodamage and protect the skin from UV radiation. I bought this Biossance Serum last year and love how it absorbed into my skin, leaving no residue. I can’t say how much copper is in this product, but the color is very pale baby blue with a slight copper scent, so I know it has some in it.
After reading this government study, I decided to up my copper peptide game and get a stronger one.
This Niod serum is a water-based product that simply melts into the skin, leaving no residue on the skin. It has a stronger copper scent that’s not unpleasant. I love that Niod lists the amount in their products. This serum has 1.0% Pure Undiluted Copper Tripeptide-1 plus 1.0% Pure Undiluted Tripeptide-1 along with additional skin-supporting peptides.
I use a lot of good products on my skin, so it’s hard to decipher what’s doing what, but my skin looks great, and I’m a firm believer in the benefits of antioxidants in both skincare and the food we eat. It’s important to note that it’s best not to combine copper peptides with topical Vit C or retinoids. I apply mine on alternate nights to my Retin A and then alternate it with my Vit C in the morning.
Outfit of the week
I’ve been reaching for more color lately and am fixating on blue. This week’s outfit of the week could have all been blue, but I decided to punctuate it with some natural straw and white.
I love the fit of these Hudson jeans and just ordered a second pair. They have a nice rise, and the length means I don’t have to hem them, which is a win/win in my book. I added some rich lapis blue, a natural straw hat, and a small woven leather tote bag.
SHOP THE OUTFIT DETAILS
Shapewear
Does that word strike terror or disgust into your heart? I had a small lingerie mishap last week, which you’ll see later this week. It has me wondering what brands you wear for shapewear. Do you have a favorite brand of panties? Slip? How about shorts for wearing under a skirt to prevent leg chafing? Please share in the comments.
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
I always go for cruelty free whenever I can, and its a bonus if the product is also “clean.” If you are looking for cruelty free products, check out Cruelty Free Kitty. at http://www.crueltyfreekitty.com. The creator, Suzana Rose, has lists of products vetted to be cruelty free and also reports on those that are not, along with different price points. Cover Girl is now cruelty free and I use their clean mascara.
As for shapewear, I just discovered Maidenform’s Tame Your Tummy Shaping Brief. It smoothes, holds in without constricting and there are no pantylines. I had an experience once where I tried a shaping camisole on at Target. I was the only one in the dressing room (thankfully) and got stuck in it! I had to tell myself not to panic and imagine the headlines “Woman gets stuck in shapewear!”. I finally was able to wriggle myself out of it and have never again tried another camisole!
For skin care, I started using collagen powder about a month ago. It is good for skin, hair, nails, joints, sleep, etc. The brand I use is Vital Proteins and it dissolves very well in my morning coffee, and in hot tea or hot chocolate. I’m already seeing the results in more sound sleep, thicker hair and smoother skin! š
I love lapis blue, or any blue, so the outfit you have today is right up my alley! Gorgeous!
I often check that website. It’s a great resource. I have no idea that Cover Girl is now cruelty-free! Bravo!!
I use Megababe Thigh Rescue to stop chafing in the summer because I can’t stand wearing extra clothing when it’s hot. It was created by an American woman a few years ago and she now has some other products.
I can’t abide shapewear ; partly because it’s too tight and partly because iI can’t tolerate non-natural fabric pressed into my skin.(It makes my skin itch and when I scratch it scabs even if I don’t break the skin.). I found some mostly cotton granny panties which smooth and shape from Marks and Spencers but I only wear them for special events.
I always love to read about beauty products. I hadn’t heard about copper, but I’ll be looking into that now. I use hyaluronic acid, lots of moisturizers, and I love my oils! I need to get back to using my retinol oil, but then I have to worry about slathering on the sunblock when taking the dog out to do his business first thing in the morning. I have a BBL laser treatment scheduled for next week. It’s the second one, and I can’t wait! I invest in monthly facials and good skincare because this is the only skin I’ve got! Thanks for the information on copper
Sunscreen is so important! I never miss it
I would choose cruelty free every time. There is a great app called āCruelty Cutterā where you just scan a products bar code and it tells you. If you come across a brand that is not on there that should be they will investigate it.
Thank you!! Iāve never heard of the app but often google the PETA site to check brands.
When I saw your blog post title, I thought hmmm, yes, copper and lapis could be really beautiful together. LOL!
I don’t wear shapewear, per se, but love Jockey Skimmies (slipshorts) as a first layer under dresses or skirts. They don’t compress — they smooth. I have a large abdominal scar and can’t stand anything tight — the Skimmies are the best I’ve tried (and I’ve tried many). Comfortable, good price, long lasting, easy wash.
Iām going to have to try those.
Cold and wet in Seattle area š³ not spring yet! Want to wear my new spring purchases!
Love blues this season!
I am liking Glo facial products from my salon where i get facials. The last one she dermaplaned my face and im a fan now! Im sensitive and tolerated this well!
I am liking Soma store light shape bottems – much lighter than spanx!
I love my Honeylove Cami. It’s perfect to smooth out my lumps and bumps!
Do love the color of the azure blue top! As to suggestions of shapewear; honestly it is something I’ve never have had to fret about (due slender genetics) however now that gravity has set in I ensure I have the proper fit in a bra and it is the correct style and color for the garment I’m wearing. The same guideline applies to briefs (no panty lines s.v.p.), so I’m afraid I am not of much help. Regarding skin and makeup products it is really only now I am beginning to dabble and experiment with them. i.e. Recently investing in the Nira Precision Laser facial device and only after thirty-four days can say I see a positive difference combining it with an o*al collagen supplement (your advice) plus application of a moisturizing/collagen cream. All said; I do appreciate your input and recommendations and from my personal perspective let it be said , ‘you definitely can teach an old dog, new tricks’ ! -Brenda-
You’re so funny, Brenda. I have been very curious about the Nira. Thanks for the recommendation.
I guess I’m the unusual one, in that I wear shape wear every day and am always looking for the next best one. My favorites are Shapeez. The trick is getting the right size, but when you do they are not at all uncomfortable. I have tried Honey Love and do not care for them at all. they do not have underwires and I get a uni-boob.
You are not alone, ann. They are very popular.
Hi! Another vote for Honeylove! I really like the crossover bra, the silhouette bra and the silhouette brief. I find that I can wear this shape wear as comfortable underwear for everyday activities, not just special occasions. Itās more smoothing than shaping underwear. I also like Jockey. I use Biossance products regularly, but am interested in this copper study. Thank you for the information!
Thigh Society cooling shorts for anti-chafing and smoothing, very lightweight and comfy!!
No shapewear for me! On the rare occasions I wear a dress, I wear a pair of white knit leggings shorts. My income really limits me to drugstore brands now and for my fair skin I am using LāOreal products. I decided to buy a whole new wardrobe at the JCP sales. I found that Liz Claiborne jeans and shorts and lovely flowing tops fit me perfectly in petites. I went with shades of blue and light florals. Now I can wear clothes that are comfortable and flattering to my short curvy figure and fair colored hair and skin. Iām walking everyday now that I got my Sketchers walking shoes in wide size 7. So comfortable even with really bad arthritis and neuropathy pain in my feet. After I saw them on you I splurged. Unfortunately, the Easy Spirit shoes just donāt fit. I did splurge on sunscreen and bought the one you suggested. I also found a cute bucket hat cheap but cute on Amazon. This is for any of your ladies in your 70s like me that has a very limited budget.
Thank you for sharing, Sydney. Those sound like great pieces!
I agree. If it fits, looks good it is great. And it does not need to be āout of the parkā expensive.
What a beautiful shot of the California poppiesā¦ drew me right in to your post! Iām a gardener and wondering how to incorporate them into my garden without having them everywhereā¦ perhaps just have to keep to the larger variety of poppiesā¦ but if I had a wilder patchā¦
Regarding shape wearā¦I did have some hilarious incidents years agoā¦ you know, when you struggled to pull the piece on and then couldnāt walk normally! Or breathe!
That said, I own 2 pairs of Jockeys soft smoothersā¦ nude , stop at the mid thigh, and the waist is not at all constricting. They are so useful under dresses when I want a smooth line and less ājiggleā down there! What I find surprising is that they donāt make me hot at all. Like gold for me , so Iāve had for ages as I take care washing, and although seldom worn, they do get used on occasion. Other brands tried are just not as comfortableā¦ and a waste of money.
I like your outfit choices. I love wearing blue, especially in the warmer months, but have turned to the blues that suit my āsoft Autumnā palette. If I do wear darker bluesā¦towards navyā¦I have to play with a scarf near my face to soften up the look. No problemā¦ I have many scarves! But, not white around my faceā¦ I have learned that cream is much better for me.
I’m shocked at the shapewear I used to shoehorn myself into. They were torture devices and no fun.
I wear Thigh Society shorties under my dresses- mostly for thigh rubbing but they also have a “cooling” version that I feel really wicks sweat away. They come in different lengths, thickness and colors.
I’ve never heard of them. Thanks for thew recommendation. I love the idea of cooling!
Good morning!
I am always on the lookout for new skin care products. Thank you for attaching the interesting government study regarding copper peptides. I am sold and will be purchasing the Niod copper serum.
I love it. Be careful not to spill it! I did on my first bottle š©
I do wear slip shorts or bike shorts under summer dresses, but not just for thigh protection. A student told me about an up-skirt photographer, so that’s why.
Oh wow! I never thought about that.
My skin is so sensitive & I have rosacea so Iām always hesitant to try new products. I keep returning to Dr Weilās mushroom line in Origins & I use Elta MDās tinted sunscreen. I feel my skin needs a refresh. Maybe Iāll give the peptides a try.
I love the lapis blue top & will take a look at the Hudson jeans.
Iāve read good things about the Dr Weil line. Thanks for the recommendation.
Ugh, shapewear!! Can I vote for both terror AND disgust? I would love some tips on finding some shapewear that I would WANT to wear! Really looking forward to that post Jennifer.
I also refuse to wear torture devices but I do need things to smooth things out in certain garments.
Jennifer,I want to thank the other ladies for their suggestions and comments about shapewear. My husband said I should stop caring about what people might think of my appearance without shapewear.
I did speak to my family doctor snd I was told, at my age 72, it comes down to genetics (regarding my middle). However, I am going to check out āhoney love ā
Thanks ladies
I tried shapewear once for around my middle. I was very uncomfortable, and never wore it again. I really don’t need shapewear, as long as I buy clothes that are not too snug or fitted. I remember when my mother wore a girdle, and she eventually got rid of it. Women wore corsets before that. The things we women go through. I am at an age that comfort is a big deal.
I have several pieces of Kendra Scott, well made and affordable.
Love the color blue in the outfit today. I have several pairs of Hudson jeans and I didn’t have to hem them either, which is amazing! I’m really trying to work on skincare and it’s not too late! Enjoy the CA poppy’s š¼
Itās never too late!
Nice casual outfit. The blue blouse is a gorgeous color! GHK-cu peptide sounds like a wonder drug! I couldn’t figure out how it equates to the copper peptide supplement but plan to ask my dermatologist about it, thanks. To answer your question about cruelty free vs additives, I think that’s a false choice. With all the products out there, it’s hard to imagine that something comes down to an either-or choice between two products — and if it does, I’d not use either.
Love the blue! As for shape wear and wire free bras, Honeylove is the best I’ve found. Fit, (size 14) quality, and value, plus sexy. No grannies panties for me.
Bravo Sue!
Love lapis blue……hate shape wear and I don’t own any, but I do work out (lol).
I hate shapewear. I don’t want to feel constricted and uncomfortable. But I do wear Jockey skimmies under a dress to prevent chafing. What I like about it is it’s not shapewear, it just smoothes and keeps your thighs from rubbing together when it’s hot.
They sound perfect!
I tried on a shapewear slip once and got stuck in the darn thing! Picture a short, chubby woman wrestling with a slip in the dressing room. Decided Iād live without. Lol. I do need to work on losing a pound or two but either way, Iāve learned to live with my extra. I do absolutely despise climbing underwear though so I have some Woxer brand with a 5ā inseam and a 7ā inseam pair from Thigh Society. Pricy but worth it.
I got trapped in a dress one time and nearly dislocated a shoulder, trying to get out of it!
Happy Monday Jennifer! I’m a C serum person so have tried several all over the map – I like Mario Badescu and Biossance but veering to the MB.
I also use products with HAcid. I’m ready to try some new brands in my makeup.
BTW I like your ideas in packing a bag to keep in husbands car! Sun hat etc.
Biossance is a nice line. Iāve been using the Paulaās Choice c and itās very nice.
I love blue and wear it all the time. Mainly navy blue. I am a winter and it is one of my colors. I don’t wear shapewear. I never wear skirts or dresses. I have wide hips for my body and they just make my hips look even wider. I wear a lot of shorts and capris here in very HOT Florida. I wear shorts 10 months of the year! At home I wear cotton hipters and going out I wear Wacoal silky underwear. I have a style that is now out of production that is so comfortable that I have 15 pairs! They will last me forever because they never go in the dryer and I wash them on gentle in a lingerie bag. They were expensive but well worth the money!
I hate when they discontinue favorites!!
Our weather is crazy. We had 3 straight days of 80 degrees which is very unusual, and today snow! Love the blue outfit. Very spring weather adaptable and cute.
Good morning everybody!
I’m going to try using the copper peptide serum.
Jennifer, do you have a favorite for getting rid of the sun spots on your face?
You mentioned alternating vit c with retinol and the copper peptides……how do you know this? Does it say so on the labels. Sorry for my ignorance. I dont use many products so I’m not aware of all the do’s and don’ts.
I like the blue outfit, especially the earrings.
Have a good day.
I do a lot of reading. Also the Niod site is very informative and tells you what products conflict with others. Itās a drop down on each product. For spots, both the retin an and B c are helpful but not as much as hydroquinone.
Love the blue! I wish I could wear hats, but I just donāt care for how they look on me. Snowed in Minnesota again, so I get the ā iffinessā of packing! I just ordered your brotherās adult book. Happy Monday!
Snow?! Iāll stop complaining right now. Happy Monday.
Good morning & Happy Monday,
I like the blue outfit today, casual and yet can be worn out to dinner. Iām a fan of Kendra Scott jewelry, very affordable and can be mixed with my more expense pieces. Shapewear drives me crazy!!!, I canāt find one pair Iām comfortable wearing. Suggestion would be very welcomed.
Have a great dayš
Hopefully other ladies will have some suggestions.