On a recent episode of my favorite guilty pleasure, What Not to Wear, makeup artist Carmindy recommended sugar as a daily facial scrub. Yes, the kind often used to stabilize rocky tables. So, I decided to try it out and compare it to some other facial scrubs – one drug store brand and one higher-end scrub. Let the games begin!
C&H Pure Cane Sugar
Price: Cheap
Trial: First up is sugar. This is the brand we have for coffee, etc. so I went with that. On the show, she just added a little bit of water to make it into more of a paste and voila! I used about half of a packet for my whole face and I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised. It was grittier than I realized, which I prefer – a scrub should scrub in my opinion. It left my skin incredibly soft and fresh feeling. The only downside for me is that it’s totally fragrance free, but if you get a little in your mouth it certainly doesn’t taste like a normal scrub or face wash.
St. Ives Apricot Scrub
Price: Typically $4-$5
Trial: Although I do appreciate the new packaging, I’m not a huge fan of this scrub. I actually prefer it as a body scrub. It does the trick and leaves skin feeling pretty smooth, but it’s missing that “wow” factor for me.
C.O. Bigelow Brown Sugar Crystal Face Polish
Price: $19.50
Trial: This scrub has the best scent by far, which I think is partially because of the strawberry seeds (0.03%). I would recommend it if you have dry skin as it has a thicker consistency and can also be used as a mask. The exfoliants/granules are not always perfectly round though and can feel a bit sharp on the face, but it’s very soothing overall.
Now, drumroll please…the winner is…sugar! I was a little shocked by my decision since I’m usually drawn towards fancy packaging, but for the price and results, I don’t think it can be beat. So go ahead and ask your neighbor for a cup – just don’t tell them what it’s for. 
Strolling along South Park in San Francisco one day on my lunch break, I ducked into a small coffee shop for a quick breather before heading into Jeremy’s on the corner to check out any new goodies they have in stock. I got my coffee, walked over to add some sugar, and then my hand hit a stack of those post cards that are left randomly all over the place. Normally, I’d just walk away, but this one was so pretty, antique floral looking, with pink roses and blue lace background. All it said was ‘
ent. She has taken her readers on a ride of world fashion while giving us a glimpse of her life, her move from San Francisco to Germany, her long hair, her short hair and her flirtation with bangs. I sometimes forget that I am in Tech and show up to events inspired by what she wears and designers she features. But, I am after all, a Girl in Tech, and if I show up at an event in my fabulous frocks, the techies shouldn’t be surprised and I know Jennie would be proud (if she knew who I was! 
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