​A few months ago, the online beauty store, Beautylish, sent me several skincare products from a brand called Good Molecules to try and review.  
 
I am so happy to be able to share with you my experience with these products. I know that skin care can at times be very expensive. I have talked about and recommended brands that can be price prohibitive. That is why I am so happy to be able to let you in on the Good Molecules brand.

​When they say a fair price, they mean it. Prices start at $6.00! By working directly with top labs, Good Molecules offers products that target a multitude of skin issues without the traditional retail markup.
 
One thing they did not skimp on is the packaging. I know for many that may not make a difference, but I’m a sucker for good packaging. For me, I feel that details matter. The droppers do not leak or drip, the bottles are beautiful, and they make it easy to travel with.
 
With that being said, these products have less of the active ingredients that skincare lines such as Drunk Elephant or Tata Harper have. I think this is a great line for those who are just starting to use skincare. It would be excellent for younger women in their teens and 20’s who are looking to begin a skincare regimen. It is also a good line for women of any age to try products for the first time.
 
I’m going to go through the items they sent me and let you know my thoughts and results. Let’s get into this review!

The Instant Cleansing Balm is the first Good Molecules product I tried. I am very much into the new cleansing balms that have appeared on the market. Since I do have incredibly sensitive skin, I am always a bit cautious of any new product that I use to remove my makeup - especially around my eyes, which can get very red and swollen. 
 
I had no adverse reaction to the Good Molecules Cleansing Balm. With ingredients like Camellia Oil and Shea Butter, it feels wonderful on the skin and removes even dark mascara and eyeliner easily. Makeup just melts off the skin and rinses away with just water. My skin was not tight or dry after using it. It just felt very clean and smooth.
 
It is a solid balm that transforms into a silky milk when mixed with water. It comes with a spatula (nice touch, thank you!) that is used to scoop out the balm and massage it into DRY skin. Just rinse with water or cleansing cloth. I use the EVE LOM muslim cloths.

Step 1: Scoop some of the balm out of the tub onto dry hands, or if it comes with an applicator like the Good Molecules does, use the product spatula and apply directly onto DRY skin. 

Step 2: Spread the balm generously covering your whole face, and you will see the makeup just melt away. 

Step 3: With a muslim cloth gently start to wipe away the day from your face. If you are wearing a full face of makeup you might want to wet the cloth first. 

Step 4: Using lukewarm water, splash your face to remove any residual product or makeup. 
 
Cleansing balms are different and might feel strange at first. It doesn't turn into a soapy texture and you don't have to use water for it to start working. Once you get used to it you'll definitely keep it in your routine. Overall, the Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm is a great product! If you have naturally dry skin I suggest using it in the morning as well since it also hydrates your skin. 

This was by far my favorite product and is great for travel, too. It came with me on my trip to St. John this year!

​If you have been following my blog, you know that one of the skincare products I constantly use is Hyaluronic Acid. I use a product containing Hyaluronic Acid every day, morning and night. 

​The reason I love it so much is that this active ingredient holds moisture in your skin. That is why it is the first product I put on my skin out of the shower in the morning and also the product that I use after washing my face at night. 
 
Now, there are Hyaluronic Acid products out there that can range in cost of up to $300 for approximately 1 oz. bottle (I’m looking at you Dr. Barbara Strum. I hate to admit it, but yes, I tried this. Was it good, yes, but I cannot by any means reconcile the cost.) Of course, the number of active ingredients varies when you are talking about these price ranges. But I have found that you can certainly find more affordable, quality products.
 
I have been using the Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum under my makeup as my first step. I like it since it is very lightweight and holds hydration. I then use a moisturizer and primer before using foundation. 

​I would recommend this item to anyone who is looking for more hydrated, glowing skin. I’ve got to say it again, the cost is incredible!

Another favorite of mine was the Rosehip Seed Oil. The only ingredient in this is 100% Chilean Rosehip Seed Oil, and it feels wonderful on the skin.

I use this Pure Rosehip Seed Oil in the evening. You only need a few drops. Warm a few drops in your hands and press into your face. Don’t be afraid of face oils - they are one of the products that do wonders for your skin! 
 
This is something that will come to St. John with me and will help hydrate and heal my skin after being in the sun. Even though I always use sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses - you can’t help but get sun on a tropical island! This will help keep my skin healthy.

I recommend this product for everyone at any age.

​First, let me specify that if you are using a serum, remember not to use multiple at the same time. This review is giving you all the different options that I tried, but only one at a time. There would be no need to use this and a hyaluronic acid serum at the same time.

​Good Molecules’ Niacinamide Serum is also a serum that can be used morning and night and is a good first product under makeup.
 
Like everything else in this line, the price is incredibly affordable and a great way to start trying this particular ingredient.

​The Good Molecules Super Peptide Serum is a serum that will target signs of aging in your skin. It is formulated with tri-peptides, which help to stimulate the production of collagen. 

Collagen is a big buzzword in skincare today. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and helps with keeping our skin firm, smooth and healthy. But like with anything else, we start to lose collagen as we age.

​How unfair is that?!
 
But I digress, this topical treatment will help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can be used in the mornings and at night. Since this is a serum, you would use this as your first step in your skincare routine. 
 
Again, I would recommend this product to those who are just starting a skincare routine and want an affordable, quality way to get started.

​This is a Moisturizer and Primer in one, used to prep your skin for makeup. Now, I am incredibly picky about my primer, so for me, this was a no-go. I don’t like to have a primer and moisturizer combined. 

​For those who rather use one product rather than applying two different products separately then this is for you. You only need a pea-sized amount of this moisturizing primer, letting it absorb into your skin before applying your makeup. 
 
There are also those people who are always looking for a silicone-free face product, so for those, this is a great buy. It is also fragrance-free, alcohol-free and mineral-oil free. 

​So that’s my review of some of the Good Molecules skincare line. Thank you to Beautylish for sending these amazing products my way! 
 
One last thing that I wanted to mention was Beautylish’s excellent customer service. I purchased a few items myself a few weeks ago that I want to take with me to St. John. I noticed that with even expedited shipping, it would not reach me in time. I sent an email to their Customer Service team, and within 20 minutes they responded that they were having my items shipped and that they would reach me in 2 days - well before I had to leave. Now that’s what I call quick, efficient service! 
 
When looking at the Good Molecules brand on Beautylish.com, I noticed that all of these items I’ve reviewed have very high ratings. These reviews come from customers who have purchased the products and used them, and we can all agree that they are worth it. 

I hope you found this post helpful! If you have questions about the Good Molecules brand, skincare, or something else? Comment your questions down below, and check out my Glowing with Mrs. Stafford Advice Column for more guidance on your skincare routine.

​If you’re in dire need of some escapism, then this is the post for you! 

With the coronavirus pandemic going on, most of us are on lock down and in a constant state of anxiety due to the flood of news reports. Since we are all doing the right thing by staying at home, let's spend some time daydreaming instead of stressing. 

Among all the chaos, we might have forgotten that March is Women’s History Month. In this post, I wanted to highlight some of my favorite luxury brands made by women. I’ll show you that some accessories can transform not only your look, but also your self-confidence. You can be in lady-boss mode to jet-setter lifestyle all with one outfit. 

Gumuchian is a luxury jewelry company that I have posted about in the past. Not just because they have magnificent jewelry, but because of everything that Gumuchian stands for.

​​Their founder and visionary, Anita Gumuchian, and her daughters Myriam and Patricia, carry on a family legacy in the jewelry industry that dates back over 100 years. 

The artistry and beauty of their jewelry is evident at first sight. The diamonds and gemstones that they use, along with their unique designs, are what makes this jewelry so incredible to look at and also so very easy to wear. Their office in Manhattan is where all their designs are developed and brought to life by master jewelers. This team of women comes together as one, making each design built to wear with comfort, while lasting a lifetime. This is what it means to be "Designed by Women for Women." 

This is why we are proud to present their pieces to you, since our blog is all about women supporting women!

​Kimberly Pucci is another successful businesswoman with a riveting background. Pucci is a worldly woman who, among other ventures, has started her own luxury handbag company. Now, her lines Kimberly Pucci Atelier and Kimberly Pucci Vault, show off her artistic sensibility and unparalleled expertise, which have found their ultimate expression. 

Her designs are influenced by her time abroad in Italy. When living in Florence, she was surrounded by art at every turn and she embraced every opportunity to learn more. Who better to learn about style and high-quality accessories from than the Italians? 

Now, with the how hard this pandemic has hit Italy, Kimberly Pucci is donating 20% of every purchase - including Gift Cards - to the Croce Rossa Italiana (Italian Red Cross) to help fund efforts to contain the virus. 

Pucci is also doing a very special offer with any purchase of $5,000 or more - you will have the chance to stay in Kimberly Pucci’s own Casa Alina, her 12th-century Tuscan villa, for a complimentary one-week stay when Italy is again open to visitors. You will enjoy the perfect blend of authentic and modern luxury in a truly memorable Tuscan experience! 

Now, this is an offer of a lifetime. Instead of daydreaming, you could actually be living it! 

With this simple black power suit and accessories that do all the talking, you will walk into any room feeling like the boss!

Want the same look? Keep reading for links to each piece. 

I call these shoes the showstopper! They are black ankle boots with a gold heel by Salvatore Ferragamo, and I found them online, lucky enough! They really add an extra special touch to an otherwise simple outfit. 

My black pants, believe it or not, are from Spanx. They are called "The Perfect Black Pant, Hi-Rise Flare" which is the most fitting name for these comfy, yet formal looking pant. 

Available in both Petite and Tall, these pants are $148. 

This gorgeous black handbag is a Kimberly Pucci and called "Contessina | Jacquard," with a starting price of $1,900.00

"When Contessina enters the room, every head turns.

​Its timeless styling looks totally unique in Jacquard weave, one of our exclusive archival 1960s patterns. Your choice of custom details makes it truly your own. Select from our palette of premium pebble leathers, brilliant hardware finishes, and trio of ever-chic sizes. The smallest Contessina is perfect for traveling light; medium holds your water bottle, phone, wallet and pashmina with room to spare; the large version accommodates business files, shoes and other desk-to-dinner needs. Contessina goes absolutely everywhere—and you'll want one for every destination."

Both my T-shirt and Blazer is from the classic Misha Nonoo. The black blazer is called the ​Florence Blazer Dress. 

"The Florence Blazer Dress is a black double-breasted blazer dress that hits mid-thigh. It features black and white contrast-edge buttons (as well as an inside button for security), pockets, and a classic lapel."

The Misha Nonoo GIRLFRIEND TEE 2.0 comes in a pack of three t-shirts with white, gray, and black for $185. 

"When a Tee is this great (and sustainably made), you want one in every color - so we made it easy. Our Girlfriend Tee 3 Pack features everyone's favorite tee shirt in colors to match every outfit."

Moonlight smooth bezel curved diamond hoop earrings in 18 karat gold
26 round brilliant diamonds, 1.60 approximate carat weight
approximately 0.875" drop
Available colors: yellow, white, rose

Moonlight smooth bezel diamond band ring in 18 karat gold
15 round brilliant diamonds, 1.00 approximate carat weight
Available colors: yellow, white, rose

The necklace and bracelet is from the "Secret Garden" Collection. 

18k Gold, SECRET GARDEN MOTIF CONVERTIBLE DIAMOND NECKLACE, is a spectacular piece of jewelry. 

Secret Garden motif convertible necklace with diamonds in 18 karat yellow gold with hidden clasps creating multiple unique ways of wear including bracelet option
112 round brilliant diamonds, 1.96 approximate carat weight
147 princess cut diamonds, 7.84 approximate carat weight
35" length

With the matching ​18k Gold, SECRET GARDEN MOTIF DIAMOND BRACELET, you'll be the envy of every lady at the meeting. 

Secret Garden motif bracelet with three diamond motifs in 18 karat gold
round brilliant diamonds, 0.88 approximate carat weight
princess cut diamonds, 0.90 approximate carat weight
Available colors: yellow, white, rose

This outfit will definitely turn a few heads as you glide into a room. With the red hot pumps and silky form-fitting animal print skirt, it's a whole new level of va-va-voom, while still leaving plenty to the imagination. 

The red pumps I'm rocking are made by M. Gemi and they are called THE ESATTO 90MM for $278. 

My sexy skirt is from Free People and it's called ​the Normani Bias Printed Skirt. It's currently sold out on Free People's website, but I was able to find it on another site here. 

The Bianca from Kimberly Pucci is a must-have! These handbags come in various colors, the one I'm wearing is the Tan with Orange accents. 

My cropped black cardigan sweater is from Free People, which is sold-out. Here is another very similar cardigan from Topshop for only $30. 

The black tank is ​called the Seamless Scoop Neck Shaping Tank from Yummie for $34. 

The Gumuchian ring on my right hand is the MOONLIGHT DIAMOND BAND RING in 18k Gold. The Gumuchian ring on my left hand is the CONTEMPORARY THREE STONE BEZEL RING.

And the stunning earrings are also part of the Secret Garden Collection, SECRET GARDEN LINKING MOTIF DROP EARRINGS.

Secret Garden linking motif diamond accented drop earrings in 18 karat gold
14 round brilliant diamonds, 0.64 approximate carat weight
approximately 1" drop
Available colors: yellow, white, rose

You'll definitely be riding in first class in this classic ensemble! This is comfort and style all wrapped up in one outfit, which is perfect for those long flights around the world.

My tan pants are from Everlane.

My handbag is another special Kimberly Pucci design that gives this outfit the little hint of flare it needs. It's called the Alina | Pebble, and the color I have in the picture above is Oro Rosa for $1,400.

"Go from casual to cocktails without missing a beat.
Shimmery, spacious and incredibly chic, Alina gathers all your work/life essentials with unequaled grace. All eyes will be on its exquisite metallic checkerboard exterior, completely handwoven in premium pebble leather and finished with matching handles that stay comfortably on your shoulder. And thanks to its fully zippered top, only you will know Alina's carrying your workout gear, book manuscript and a bottle of rosé. Also inside: a matching pebble lining and two interior pockets to secure your smartphone, keys and more."

White ​silk shirt is from Misha Nonoo, called the MARGOT BLOUSE for $235.

"This ‘70s-inspired tie-neck blouse will add a sophisticated touch of vintage appeal to your on-the-go wardrobe. Wear the blouse with a pair of sleek trousers and go big with the bow for an über-feminine look worthy of any event from a typical day at the office to girls night at the theater. Dinner and cocktails are only pair of jeans away—just untie the bow and add a pair of your favorite pumps. The flowy, luxurious fabric is prepared for the busiest of days—just like you are.  
The Margot Blouse features a shawl collar with tie and a concealed button placket with metal snap closure."

My tan Cashmere Wrap is from Salvatore Ferragamo.

 This beautiful, milky ring on my right hand is the GUMUCHIAN 18K YELLOW GOLD VANILLA ICE CREAM CONE RING​.

"'Vanilla' ice cream ring in 18 karat yellow gold with cacholong center and diamond details
vanilla cacholong center, 18.85 approximate total carat weight
92 round brilliant cut diamonds, 0.91 approximate total carat weight set in white gold
ring size 6.5"

This bling beauty on my left hand is the SECRET GARDEN OUTLINE MOTIF ILLUSION DIAMOND RING.

Secret Garden illusion motif statement ring in 18 karat gold
65 round brilliant diamonds, 1.25 approximate carat weight
Available colors: yellow, white, rose

Well ladies, that's all I have for now. Hopefully, this post gave you some distraction, if even only for a few minutes. Stay healthy and happy!