▶ Starting at your feet, brush in small circular motions. All skin brushing movements should be focused towards the heart, this will encourage blood circulation and lymphatic flow. Apply very light pressure in areas where skin is thin to avoid broken skin, rashes, or irritation.
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Over-The-Counter Power: Avène Rétrinal + 0.1 Cream
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Recommended by dermatologists, Avène Rétrinal + 0.1 Cream is currently one of the most innovative skincare products on the market.
Available in three different strengths including 0.1% retrinal (French for retinol) which is currently the highest amount of retrinal available in an over-the-counter product. The lowest strength is 0.025%, which is where someone who has never used a retrinal product should begin. Classified as dermo-cosmetics, Avène Rétrinal Skin Care products are considered to be cutting edge skincare with a medical approach to skincare.
Avène Rétrinal + 0.1 Cream is quite effective for a couple of reasons. The product is a form of Vitamin A which through clinical studies has been proven to improve elasticity, radiance and skin texture – as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. You will get the normal side effects with any retrinal/retinol product – skin sensitivity, peeling, dry skin. But it is all well-worth the end result. Clear, glowing, firm skin.
The easy to apply product should be applied to the face and neck after cleansing. As with all anti-aging products it is imperative that broad-spectrum sunscreen be used at all times when exposed to the sun.
I have used many retinol/retrinal products, over-the-counter and prescription – this is by far the best over-the-counter product I have used.
Know Your Zones: Dermalogica Face Mapping
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Take the guesswork out of your skincare regime with Dermalogica’s Face Mapping®. This process takes no more than five to ten minutes and provides insight into your skin’s past and present, allowing the subsequent prescription of a targeted home care regime. Face Mapping® is available at authorized skin treatment centers, salons, and spas worldwide. To find one nearest you – HERE.
Developed by The International Dermal Institute, Dermalogica’s Face Mapping® is a zone-by-zone skin analysis tool which provides insight into individual skin types and skin concerns. With your very own personalized analysis and prescription, you will discover how to treat your skin with the right products and professional skin treatments.
Rather than analyzing the skin in general terms, a Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist uses Face Mapping® to divide the facial landscape into fourteen zones. Each zone is thoroughly examined inch-by-inch through touch and site, and findings are notated on a prescription sheet.
This prescription sheet serves as a customized visual guide for you, outlining on an actual facial landscape illustration where conditions including congestion, breakouts, dehydration, and/or hyper-pigmentation are present. Face Mapping® maintains an accurate record of your skin, which provides you and your Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist an objective view into the results of any professional product recommendation.
If you don’t have time to see a Professional, Dermalogica offers Speed Mapping online. In just two quick steps, the process will identify your top concerns, then provide a personalized product prescription. Get started: HERE.
This analysis is a wonderful tool for those questioning their skin type or experiencing changes to their skin. Skin changes seasonally and Face Mapping® can be a useful and detrimental tool to solving your skincare concerns. Of course, Dermalogica will prescribe their brand of products in this analysis, but the information received applies to all brands of skincare.
Dermalogica’s Face Mapping® will put you on the road towards your healthiest skin ever!
Winter Skin: Boscia Restorative Day Moisture Cream SPF 15
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Skincare 101: The skin’s moisture levels are controlled by lipids, oily substances produced by the epidermis (outer layer of skin). An epidermis that is deficient in lipids allows water to escape from the skin and evaporate, causing dryness. Chilly temperatures, cold winds, low humidity, and dry indoor heat cause water to evaporate from the skin because there is more water in your skin than in the air. Combat winter skin with nourishing and hydrating skincare.
In the winter, we need to add products to our skincare regime that protect from the harsh elements. If you are still using your normal, summertime, lightweight moisturizer, bump it up to a more emollient one. boscia Restorative Day Moisture Cream SPF 15 is an advanced cream that delivers continuous moisture to reverse dryness, help diminish the appearance of uneven skin tone and dullness, and restore luminosity and brightness. This cream additionally provides SPF 15 protection, which is essential for the prevention of future damage from harmful UVA/UVB rays and other environmental stresses.
Restorative Day Moisture Cream SPF 15 contains a highly-effective proprietary botanical formula:
- Trehalose Derivative: a plant sugar that has water-binding properties and a powerful skin-conditioning humectant that provides continuous, long-lasting skin moisture.
- Magnolia Bark Extract: brightens skin discoloration and improves skin elasticity and firmness by preventing the breakdown of collagen and elastin by UV light.
- Mulberry Extract: provides whitening and brightening effects, prevents discoloration such as age spots and improves skin dullness.
- Mallow Extract: helps reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
- Palmitoyl Penta-Peptide: promotes skin firmness, minimizes and prevents fine lines and wrinkles.
- Jojoba Leaf: botanical that prevents free radical damage, protects and nourishes.
- Willowherb: plant that provides soothing relief for skin,calms inflammation and reduces redness.
- SPF 15 UVA/UVB Sunscreen (broad spectrum sunscreen): • Octinoxate absorbs UVB radiation to prevent skin damage and sunburn. • Avobenzone (Parsol 1789) absorbs UVA radiation to prevent premature aging.
boscia Restorative Day Moisture Cream SPF 15 is by far the most hydrating daytime cream I have ever used. The gel-like consistency quickly absorbs into the skin and feels amazingly nourishing. TRUTH: If the bottle did not say “SPF 15” – I would never believe it contained sun protection. There is no trace of white residue or heavy, overwhelming texture. This cream does not make the face look shiny or slick, but healthy and glowing.
Win the battle against winter skin with boscia Restorative Day Moisture Cream SPF 15.
Moisture Surge: Clark’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask
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Fall is here. Along with the crisp mornings and turning leaves, you may have also noticed your skin feeling a little chapped and dry. When the season changes, so does your skin. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of the colder weather and ease your skin into the winter months gracefully.
Now is the time to seal in the hydration. Clarks’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask is designed to hydrate, nourish and comfort dry, aging, environmentally damaged and dehydrated complexions. Natural ingredients work together to deeply moisturize and replenish the complexion, allowing it to regain radiance and suppleness over time. With regular use, fine lines and wrinkles will be diminished and a youthful glow will take their place.
The mask hydrates and soothes skin quickly, and can be used year-round to nourish the skin and restore the natural glow. The high concentrations of algae extract, coupled with comfrey root, Jasmine Absolute, and Japanese Green Tea, make this mask a potent anti-oxidant treatment. It is thick and rich and instantly quenches the skin. It can be used as a weekly treatment or as a daily moisturizer. If used daily, only the smallest amount is needed. Skin will be noticeably plumper and hydrated.
Make a few tweaks in your seasonal skin care to ensure healthy, glowing skin all-year-round.
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ABOUT CLARK’S BOTANICALS
Some skincare lines come and go. This year’s miracle ingredient is often next year’s outdated science.Then there are those exceptional lines that not only deliver results, but are truly compelling because they are based on real human experience and a brand narrative not created by a corporate marketing team, but by a personal history.
Clark’s Botanicals was born out of tragedy when company founder Francesco Clark, who then worked at Harper’s Bazaar, suffered a crippling spinal cord injury in a swimming pool diving accident on June 1, 2002.
With his central nervous system impaired, Francesco lost the ability not only to walk, but even to sweat. This led to clogged pores and chronic breakouts. When neither over-the-counter nor prescriptive remedies worked, he turned to his father, Dr. Harold Clark, a physician trained in both traditional Western medicine and homeopathy.
Together they developed botanically-based formulas that effectively rebalanced Francesco’s skin, clearing it up entirely. Through word-of-mouth, other people discovered and fell in love with these products, and in 2005, Francesco began selling Clark’s Botanicals on his website: http://www.clarksbotanicals.com
Even as the collection grows into a full-fledged skincare system, rebalancing skin remains its overarching objective. That’s why all Clark’s Botanicals products today feature Jasmine Absolute, a precious essential oil that naturally rebalances skin. Derived from nocturnally-blooming flowers, this extract is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immuno-stimulating. It works to calm and heal a broad spectrum of skin types, from young to mature, oily to dry, and normal to sensitive.
With a passionate consumer following, Clark’s Botanicals is pleased to announce its latest move into select, prestige retail distribution with updated packaging and a launch family of thirteen paraben-free treatment products.
“Clark’s Botanicals is an organic part of me and my recovery,” says Francesco. “Everything about this line has a purpose and reason for being, from the ingredients to the packaging. It’s an expression of who I am in its purest form.”
Francesco Clark serves as a National Ambassador for the Christopher Reeve Foundation, which is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy.
A percentage of profits from the sale of Clark’s Botanicals go to The Christopher Reeve Foundation.
Q&A: Jouer National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli
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Yin and Yang, “shadow and light”, is an ancient Chinese philosophy used to describe how polar opposites or seemingly contrary forces are interconnected. Jouer Cosmetics has found this balance with two exceptional and exceptionally different products, Luminizing Moisture Tint and Matte Moisture Tint.
Jouer’s best-selling Luminizing Moisture Tint contains light-diffusing minerals that give skin a soft, healthy glow. This product is formulated with powerful antioxidants like ginseng and ginko biloba leaf extract to improve the skin and SPF 20 to protect it. Jouer’s Luminizing Moisture Tint provides the perfect amount of “glow.” Sometimes products that claim a “luminizing” or “dewy” finish, just end up making you look sweaty. This product perfects the look of healthy skin.
Allure recently gave Luminizing Moisture Tint it’s coveted “Best in Beauty” seal.
The counter part to a glowing complexion is found with Jouer’s new Matte Moisture Tint. This is the first matte-formula I have used that does not make my face flat. The lightweight formula blurs imperfections, moisturizes the skin and provides a velvety, soft focus finish – that looks amazing on the skin. Enriched with Vitamins A, C and E, this formula delivers rich antioxidants to the skin. The oil-free formula absorbs oil and reduces shine throughout the day.
As a special treat, Jouer’s National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli has provided all the answers needed on using, applying and selecting cream-based products.
Jouer National Makeup Stylist, Neil Scibelli, for Glow-T.com
Q: What are the benefits of using cream-based products?
A: Cream based products have the ability to leave a more dewy finish to the skin. A lot of cream based products have built in moisturizers, so I recommend them to women with dry skin.
Q: Can all skin-types use them?
A: Yes, all skin types can use cream based products. There are different categories of cream products, so choosing the right one for your skin type is key.
Q: How to pick the right colors for your skin tone?
A: I usually test a small amount of product on the lower jaw line area- to match the skin tone. I like matching the neck color.
Q: Should you use fingers or brushes to apply these products? If brushes…what are the best to use?
A: Fingers are a user-friendly way to apply cream products (like a tinted moisturizer), for those who are on the go. From a makeup artist standpoint, I recommend using a foundation brush for applying cream products; it creates a more even, flawless finish.
Q: How to apply?
A: I put a dime size amount on the top part of my hand, and dip into it with a foundation brush to apply. This way, you have control as to how much your picking up with your brush. You don’t want to end up with too much product directly on your face, so its a good way to build your coverage up. Apply from the center, moving the product outward.
Q: Any tips or tricks?
A: To prevent a cream product from looking streaky, I recommend patting the formula into the skin. It ensures coverage, without moving the product around too much.
Q: How to make cream-based products last?
A: You can set it with a translucent powder, to lock the product in place. This helps with setting the product, and also absorbs shine in the t-zone area.
Q: Favorite cream-based products?
A: Allure’s award winning product from Jouer Cosmetics, Luminizing Moisture Tint. For a more oily skin type, try the new Matte Moisture Tint also by Jouer. They leave the most incredible natural glow to the skin. They’re both oil-free and ideal for daily wear.
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About Neil Scibelli:
Born and raised in New York, Neil Scibelli has established himself as one of today’s leading fashion and celebrity makeup artists. Growing up alongside his grandfather, an oil painter, Neil began blending colors at the young age of five. Over the years, his passion for painting developed into a keen interest in makeup artistry.
While absorbing all of New York City’s cultural influences and style, makeup artistry was a natural calling for Neil. He studied his craft while training under world-renowned makeup companies including Yves Saint Laurent, Laura Mercier and Kevyn Aucoin. Neil has also assisted some of the industry’s top artists, such as Kate Lee and Mally Roncal.
A combination of talent, dedication and ambition allowed Neil to successfully turn his years of training into a full-time career. His work is mainly focused in fashion, television, music videos, and red-carpet appearances, with loyal celebrity clients in all genres.
Neil has keyed numerous fashion shows and presentations, including his re-occurring work with stylist Brad Goreski and the Kate Spade company. Other recent projects include his signature glamming for model/actress Molly Sims, assisting on Beyonce’s music video ‘Party’, and grooming for recording artist John Legend.
In 2008, Neil joined the Jouer Cosmetics team as a freelance makeup artist. Jouer promoted Neil to the role of National Makeup Stylist in 2011; a position he currently holds.
The Beauty Berry: Sea Buckthorn
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Known as the “beauty berry” across Europe and Asia, sea buckthorn contains over 190 bioactive compounds that restore, revitalize, and protect youthful beauty – inside and out. Available in skincare products, haircare products and healthcare products this bountiful berry has been used topically and internally for centuries.
Topically, these hardy berries help nourish skin, hair, and nails with powerful antioxidants and essential fatty acids, including the rare Omega 7. Sea buckthorn contains the highest Omega-7 content in the industry. Today scientists are touting Omega 7 primarily for it’s anti-aging benefits. It helps control free radicals, is vital for healthy collagen production and contains dozens of skin-nourishing phyto-nutrients including full spectrum Vitamin E, well known for healing and repairing skin tissue.
Internally, sea buckthorn can protect against heart disease, cancer, natural aging symptoms, liver damage, sun damage, memory loss, ulcers, menopause symptoms and more. Over 120 specific studies on sea buckthorn have shown that this little berry promotes health and vitality. Even Dr.Oz featured the sea buckthorn berry on his show as a vehicle for healthy weight loss and maintenance. From sea buckthorn’s rare abundance of some of the most powerful antioxidants to being the only plant in the world known to contain essential fatty acids 3, 6, 7 and 9 – sea buckthorn has earned it’s title as a “superfruit”.
Traditional health-related uses for the sea buckthorn berry include:
- Sustained energy levels
- Improved cellular health
- Cardiovascular support
- Healthy inflammation response
- Joint support
- Moisturizing dry and damaged skin and hair
- Improved immune health
- Decrease in wrinkles and fine lines
- Addressing exzema and rosacea symptoms
Fact: It takes approximately 10 pounds of sea buckthorn berries to product 1 pound of oil.
Here are four wonderful companies that incorporate sea buckthorn into their products:
Sibu Beauty has developed an entire system of premium health and beauty products made from wild, hand-harvested, fair-trade sea buckthorn. Products include luxurious cleansers, moisturizes, and other topical treatments as well as dietary supplements that beautify and protect from the inside-out. Each product is packed with the maximum levels of Omega 7 and the 190 other bio-active nutrients from the sea buckthorn berry to revitalize, renew, and replenish the body.
Shown: Sibu Repair & Protect All Natural Facial Cream and Sibu Sea Buckthorn Cellular Support
Weleda, named after the Celtic god of wisdom and healing, develops it’s products based on a passion for beauty, wellness and environmental respect. Weleda uses sea buckthorn in products targeted at dry, dehydrated skin. The essential fatty acids replenish vital moisture, while pro-vitamin A and vitamin E soften and protect the skin. Weleda adds sea buckthorn to it’s products to provide thirsty skin with nutrient-rich moisture and added antioxidants and vitamins.
Shown: Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Oil
Naked Organix offers concentrated, plant-based formulas to protect, repair and moisturize the face and body. Featuring some of the most effective botanical ingredients on the market, their skincare line is hand-crafted in small batches and contain only the finest quality organic, wild-crafted ingredients. Naked Organix uses sea buckthorn for it’s renowned ability to protect and revitalize dehydrated skin and help any skin type appear more youthful and radiant.
Shown: Naked Organix Sea Buckthorn Cleansing Bar and Naked Organix Sea Buckthorn Body Butter
Amika dedicates an entire line of haircare products to sea buckthorn (also known as Obliphica). The range provide deep conditioning and manageability utilizing pure obliphica oil or sea buckthorn oil. The concentrated formula feeds hair, restoring natural moisture and balance and imparting vitality and health to the follicle. The natural oil won’t weigh the hair down so dull hair becomes enriched and replenished with the it’s natural moisture.
Shown: Amika Obliphica Oil Treatment
Plump It Up!: Rodial Dragon’s Blood Sculpting Gel
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Dubbed as the “Liquid Facelift”, Dragon’s Blood Sculpting Gel by Rodial promises to plump, sculpt and lift the complexion as it sags and wrinkles with age.
Created to be the natural replacement for Restylane injections, Dragon’s Blood Sculpting Gel plumps facial hollows and ‘orbital troughs’ under and around the eyes, as well as for cheek volume and contouring of the chin, forehead and nose.
Dragon’s Blood is formulated with red sap of the sangre de drago tree that has been used for centuries by ancient cultures for dye, incense, wound-healing/first aid and antioxidant properties. The product news release states, “It works to form a second skin-like protective film on the skin. Protects against environmental damage and contains anti-inflammatory properties.”
Morning and night after cleansing, smooth on a thin layer of gel, then add your regular moisturizer on top with SPF for daytime, of course. The gel absorbs quickly into the skin and has a soft scent of florals and pink bubblegum. Within minutes, you can feel a tightening sensation on your skin. Not the tightening one might feel with very dry, parched skin, but a “sucked-in” taught feeling. I most certainly noticed a more sculpted and voluminous difference, however, more mature skin would reap the benefits of Dragon’s Blood much, much more.
Holy Grail: Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream
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Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream is my go-to, holy grail concealer. The opaque cream covers everything from acne to tattoos while still feeling lightweight and looking natural.
I initially bought this concealer years ago for the main issue of a bruise on my leg. I asked a Sephora representative what would be the best product and she immediately grabbed for Make Up For Ever. It worked amazingly, camouflaging the bruise and stayed-put all day. Assuming the product was too “hardcore” for the face it wasn’t until later I attempted to use on the face, primarily for redness around the nose and pigmentation issues. It concealed like a dream and did not feel heavy or look cakey on the skin. I now use Full Cover for everything from under-eye concealer to spot treatments. The versatile product can also be mixed with your favorite face moisturizer or sheer foundation when you do not want to wear a lot of makeup but need a bit more coverage.
What sets this product a part from the millions on the market is it’s waterproof properties. It is not going to budge once it sets and can be worn to the gym/beach/pool without it sliding off your face. Keep in mind that because of the waterproof capability, you will have to work the product fast – before it sets.
The 0.05 oz tube packs a highly pigmented punch. A little goes a long way as far as coverage and pigmentation. Full Cover is silicone-based, and formulated without any oils, so it is great for all skin types. Since silicone molecules are larger than pores, they will not settle or cake. That’s means the product is non-comedogenic, and perfect for acne-prone skin. The silicone also creates a sort of webbing, like a primer, that will not accentuate flakey patches or dry skin.
Five Favorites: Lip Treatments
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The product on everybody’s lips… Lip Treatments.
Moisturizing lip conditioners are some of my favorite products. Essential for getting rid of dry, chapped lips, these treatments care and protect all-year-round. Slather them on day/night, in-flight, in-car… anytime. My current five favorites are:
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream: Full Post Review: HERE
Homeoplasmine Cream: One of my French pharmacy favorites, this multi-purpose ointment soothes, protects and moisturizes the lips/skin. The homeopathic cream was originally created to heal the nasal passages from colds, allergies, and treat skin irritations. However, it is amazing on dry lips as it literally heals them before your eyes. I love the non-greasy consistency and the natural matte finish. Great for travel, this cream will quench jet-lagged lips/skin and the aluminum casing ensures the product will last forever. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find in the US. Sorry.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Therapy: Brings the healing power of First Aid Beauty’s best-selling Ultra Repair Cream to moisturize, nourish, and protect your lips. This long-lasting, petroleum-free and paraben-free formula will prevent dryness and heal parched lips. On its own, it has a subtle, semi-matte finish. Use this healthy lip balm under lipstick to keep lips hydrated, smooth and soft.
Eco Lips Renew Rejuvenating Lip Balm: Formulated with argan oil, vitamin E and antioxidants this lip balm aids in cell renewal and anti-aging. The organic lip conditioner improves skin texture almost immediately and the petroleum-free formula locks in moisture. The bold Orange Spice flavor is a treat on the lips and kind of addicting.
NUXE Rêve de Miel Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm: – Used by many makeup artists as a lip prep, this soothing lip conditioner soaks into lips and dries perfectly matte. The richly concentrated balm contains honey, plant oils, shea butter and grapefruit essence to help nourish, repair, soothe and protect the lips. The incredibly creamy, smooth texture glides on the lips effortlessly and smells of sweet citrus.
How To: Glowing Skin
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Glowing skin is as easy as 1./2./3. For a special occasion or just to pamper yourself try these steps to achieve glowing, healthy skin.
1. Dry Brush: Rejuvenates, invigorates and rids the skin of accumulated toxins. Brushing the skin helps unclog pores, increase it’s ability to absorb nutrients, increase circulation to the skin cells resulting in a better metabolic cellular exchange and correct problem areas like cellulite. Healthy skin needs to breathe. Rid it regularly of dry skin cells and the body will react by producing new skin cells more rapidly. Your skin will immediately loose that dry, pasty appearance and feel silky smooth.
2. Sea Salt Scrub: Sea salt, derived from evaporated seawater, is chock full of minerals and nutrients beneficial to the skin: magnesium, potassium, calcium chloride, sodium and bromide. These nutrients activate the circulatory system, nourish the skin, soothe the nerves and decrease arthritic discomfort. A good sea salt scrub can breathe new life into tired dull skin.
▶ Gently massage the salt scrub into the skin. Again, start from the feet and work towards the heart. Let the scrub rest on your skin for a few seconds to all allow all oils to absorb in the skin. If you can tolerate it, alternate between warm and cool water to really boost circulation – always ending with the cool water.
Favorite: red flower Italian Blood Orange Isla Das Rocas Revitalizing Sea Salt Scrub The fresh scent of orange blossom, grapefruit, lime and orange rind offer instant spa-esque invigoration. Key ingredients include: Salt crystals (harvested in the islands on the south atlantic coastline) unrefined and enriched with health-enhancing minerals / Sea algae, a protein and vitamin rich anti-oxidant / Aloe vera, naturally cooling, healing and moisturizing / Botanical essential oils, fresh and purely scented and certified organic oil.
3. Moisturize: Apply lotion to damp skin immedietly after bath or shower, this is when skin will retain the most moisture. All of the scrubbing done prior, will increase the ability for nutrients to absorb into the skin. Massage deeply into the skin using your favorite cream or lotion and/or my secret weapon…
Secret Weapon: Johnson’s Baby Oil Gel with Shea and Cocoa Butter Ever wonder how Victoria’s Secret models get that healthy dewy skin? This is it. The thick gel locks in moisture for hours and leaves skin soft, supple and shiny. (If the consistency is too thick for you, start with favorite lotion and then apply this product strategically to tops of shins, thighs, forearms and collerbone.)
Summer Favorites: Blush
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In the summer, bright and vibrant shades of cheek color is a surefire way to look younger and healthy. Use these products to emphasize a tan, create a youthful flush or mimic a lit-from-within complexion.
Start by choosing the right shade for your skintone. To find your go-to blush shade, pinch your cheeks and then pick a color that mimics your natural flush. This trick will ensure that you’re choosing the most flattering color for your skin tone. If you have fair skin, try a cool pink. Medium skin looks great in vibrant apricot/peachy hues, and darker skin tones look radiant in fuchsia.
Cream blush is a great way to instantly look fresh and dewy. Although it’s staying powder is not the best, especially in higher temperatures, cream blush is a nice alternative for dry skin. To ensure staying power on oily skin, first prime the skin and then set with a powder blush or translucent powder. To apply cream blush, smile and lightly focus the blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Then blend softly back and up toward the hairline. If you apply too liberally, tone down heavy application by blotting the excess color with a clean makeup sponge. Or, use a sheer, luminizing powder to diffuse excess color. The blush then looks like it came from within the skin versus sitting on top of it.
FAVORITES:
Dior Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening Blush: I am a sucker for these gimmicky products. However, this one is fantastic. The formula magically adjusts to your skin’s natural chemistry to create a universal shade. It produces an angelic pink glow that makes you look “lit-from-within.”
It Cosmetics Vitality Cheek Flush Powder Blush Stain in Peony: The most long-wearing powder blush I have tried. The waterproof formula mimics the lasting power and glow of a cheek stain with the easy application of a powder. Packed with anti-oxidants and anti aging properties, this blush gives new definition to a “healthy glow.”
Youngblood Crushed Mineral Blush in Rouge: These blushes are incredibly pigmented and easy to work with. They blend beautifully and last all-day. They feel lightweight on the skin and never settle into lines. A small amount goes a very long way, apply with a light hand for a sheer wash of color or add more for vibrant glowing skin.
Kevyn Aucoin The Pure Powder Glow in Myracle: Full Review HERE.
NARS Cream Blush in Cactus Flower: On trend for summer, this bright coral blush is beautiful on both the lips and cheeks. The velvety texture is extremely easy to blend and apply. Subtle gold shimmers hide in the coral to help create perfectly flushed, luminous skin.
BECCA Beach Tint in Guava: This is the perfect color for summertime. It resembles the act of playing in the sun a little too long. The water-resistant formula can be used on both the cheeks and lips. Produces the most natural-looking flush and smells like summer.
Urban Decay Afterglow Glide-On Cheek Tint in Quickie: A lightweight cream blush that does not pull or disrupt a base. It can be used on top of foundation, powder… anything. The formula is sheer but buildable. The staying power is not the best, but I am obsessed with this color. Quickie is a sheer bubble gum, electric, cotton candy pink. The minute it is applied, it creates instant youthfulness.
Conceal It: Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer
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bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer
Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer is a mineral-based miracle powder that can be used in many different ways.
As a concealer: This powder can be used to neutralize redness or applied directly to blemishes, brown spots, broken capillaries and other skin imperfections.
As foundation: The multi-tasking powder is finely milled to provide deeper coverage. It can be added to the foundation powder if heavier coverage is needed or to lighten or darken the exsisting color.
As an eyeshadow base: Use this powder as an eyeshadow or eyeshadow base to alliviate any oils, veining or discoloration on the eyelid.
As an under-eye concealer: This powder will mask dark circles and brighten the entire eye-area.
The multi-tasking powder is available in five shades. Free of preservatives, talc, waxes, dyes, oils and fragrances – it will not irritate skin.
In my opinion, this is one of the best concealers on the planet. It erases every imperfection flawlessly and in just one step – no setting needed. I do not use this product as an under-eye concealer, as it is a bit too drying for my skin, but it does work as a fantastic eyeshadow primer and color.
TIP: Spray concealer brush with setting spray or a little water to deepen the coverage and create a paste-like formula that applies flawlessly on dry skin.
Triple Threat: Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation
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Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation
Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation combines skin nourishing benefits, sun protection and perfect coverage, making it – The Triple Threat.
This luxurious foundation is a serious moisturizing treatment for the skin. The consistency is extremely emollient, balm-like. It feels nourishing and healing on the skin. The medium to full coverage foundation leaves skin looking fresh and dewy – healthy.
This product applies best using a foundation brush. I like to massage the product on the back of my hand to “activate” or warm-up the foundation. Once applied, skin tone is even, radiant and hydrated. Setting this foundation with powder is a must for combination to oily skin. Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation lasts all day and does not settle into fine lines and pores.
Over time, using this foundation will help to reduce visible signs of aging. Extra Repair Foundation is formulated with: Peptides to boost natural collagen levels, Carrot Extract to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles and both Shea and Muru Muru Butter to strengthen skin’s natural barrier and replenish moisture.
Finally ‘the triple threat’ would not be complete without sun protection. Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection in SPF 25 and Vitamin E to protect against free radicals.
Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation is the answer to dull winter skin – cover/nourish/protect – The Triple Threat.
Skin Soothing: Fresh Rose Face Mask
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Fresh Rose Face Mask
Dry skin is the most common result of seasonal weathering. Cold winter air lacks humidity and dries up natural oils in the skin, causing it to lose moisture and dull the complexion.
The Rose Face Mask by Fresh is an ultra-hydrating treatment that not only moisturizes, but soothes the skin. It reduces redness and calms inflammation – transforming the appearance of lackluster skin.
The Rose Face Mask contains a gentle blend of ultra-soothing ingredients. Pure rose floral water rejuvenates the senses and helps to diminish redness and uneven skintone. Cucumber extract acts as an anti-inflammatory while pure aloe-vera gel cools and refreshes the skin.
Protect your skin from winter woes this season with products that not only hydrate, but soothe and nourish the skin.
Seasonal Skincare: Clarisonic Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head
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Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head
As the seasons change, so should your skincare. Effective seasonal skincare means swapping our favorite summer formulas and replacing them with products that are better suited for the cool, dry weather that lies ahead.
When skin is dry and sensitive in the cooler months, many women believe it is better to skip exfoliation. However, this the ideal time to slough off those dead skin cells that create a dull complexion. Plus, exfoliating enhances the effects of hydrating lotions, creams and serums used.
As an advocate of the Clarisonic Cleansing Sysyem, review here, the Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head is my favorite. As gentle as the original, graduated bristle firmness and dual-action movement are used to clean out stubborn pores and hard-to-reach areas, like around the nose.
This brush head is ideal for those with oily skin or large pores, but is perfect for deep cleansing and exfoliation.
Excellent Elixir: Decléor Aromessence Neroli Essential Serum
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Aromessence Neroli Essential Serum
Decléor Aromessence Neroli Essential Serum leaves skin visably smoother, softer and glowing.
This serum of essential oils, Neroli, Sandalwood, Petitgrain, Sage, Parsley and Juniper Berry is specially formulated for the care of skin exposed to daily stress. It soothes dry skin and comforts tired skin.
Two drops of this magical elixir is all that in needed for the entire face and neck. The serum has a fine and silky texture that feels extremely luxurious. As this oil penetrates the skin, it absorbs beautifully with no oily build-up. I have truely noticed more even-toned, hydrated skin after using Decléor Aromessence Neroli Essential Serum.
The aromatherapy property of this product is an extra bonus. This product line is used in many spa treatments because of the aromatic relaxation ability of the essential oils. The Decleor Aromessence line have serums available for many skin concerns; Neroli (comforts stressed skin), Angelique (dry skin), Excellence (regenerating), Rose D’Orient (soothes sensitive skin), Ylang Ylang (combination and oily skin), Iris (anti-aging), Sculpt (firming) and Circularome (stimulating).
Supple Skin: L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate
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L'OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate
L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate is a whipped body moisturizer that smells divine and banishes dry skin. Rich in almond oil this creamy butter melts into the skin leaving it soft and supple.
The Almond Milk Concentrate uses almond proteins, enriched with vitamin E, to firm and nourish the skin. It also contains silicium, similar to collagen, to restore skin’s support tissue.
The sweet smell of almonds, brown sugar and whipped marshmallows lingers on the skin all day. If applied before bed, the delicious aroma clings to the sheets faintly.
The retro packaging of this body cream, heavy glass jar with silver-tin lid, is just one more reason to continue purchasing the Almond Milk Concentrate.
It’s Egyptian Magic!
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Eqyptian Magic
If there were such-a-thing as a miracle cream Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream would be on that list.
This all-natural, miraculous moisturizer cures just about any ailment. Use as a night moisturizer when skin is particularly dry, or on hair to mend split-ends or dry-scalp. Use on the body to treat eczema/psoriasis or as a daily lip balm or cuticle conditioner. Perfect for travel, Egyptian Magic is great for an in-flight hydrating facial or to heal a pesky sunburn.
This cult-favorite cream is wielded by many celebrities, models and… Madonna.
My favorite use for this product is a make-up remover. This non-greasy balm takes off every inch of makeup and leaves skin hydrated.
Ingredients: Olive Oil, Beeswax, Honey, Propolis, Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly.
MAGIC!
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