Winter Skin Woes: Kate Somerville IllumiKate CC Cream

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Does your skin get dull and lifeless with the change in weather? If so, illuminate with IllumiKate – Kate Somerville’s new CC Cream. This multifunctional tinted complexion correcting cream instantly minimizes the look of imperfections with buildable coverage. Broad spectrum SPF 50+ protects skin from the sun’s harmful rays while known brightening agents Arbutin, Licorice Extract and Natural Amino Acids help improve and even out skin tone for more luminous, younger-looking skin over time.

• Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50+ / PA+++ sun protection
• Albatin, Licorice Extract, and naturally occurring Arbutin help to brighten the appearance of discoloration
• Moisturizing Sodium Hyaluronate minimizes water loss and improves the appearance of skin
• Chicory Root Extract helps to improve the integrity of the skin’s natural barrier function

IllumiKate is a little thicker than your everyday face lotion and is extremely moisturizing. It blends well and offers light coverage with minimal build-ability. The dewy, “luminous” finish truly wakes-up the skin and provides  healthy, fresh looking skin. There are  five shades of IllumiKate, ranging from Extra Fair to Medium, so this product might not work on deeper skin tones.

If your winter skin needs an instant pick-me-up, try Kate Somerville IllumiKate CC Cream.

The Double-Cleanse Method: Dermalogica

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Double Cleanse to help relieve skin dullness, congestion and more.

The International Dermal Institute, the brains behind skin care line Dermalogica, conducted a research study that found most women only spend approximately 20 seconds washing their face. Unfortunately, even with the strongest of cleansers, a single cleanse cannot effectively penetrate and remove the dirt, oil, makeup, debris, sun-screen and pollutants left on the skin. In the long run your skin will start to look dull and be more prone to congestion and breakouts. Thus, the Dermalogica Double Cleanse was born.

The first step of the Dermalogica Double Cleanse is PreCleanse. PreCleanse is formulated with plant-based oils that melt the layers of oil-based debris on your skin because the oil molecules bond to each other, unlike the water molecules in your usual cleanser. These oils then emulsify when you add water, encapsulating and removing the trapped debris, thus allowing the second step of the cleanse to penetrate even further than before. PreCleanse is the best oil-based cleanser I have tried. Extremely gentle yet amazingly effective.

The second step of the Dermalogica Double Cleanse is the Special Cleansing Gel (or any recommended Dermalogica cleanser). The Special Cleansing Gel is a gentle, soap-free, foaming gel cleanser that removes impurities without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. Calming Balm Mint and Lavender extracts soothe the skin, while natural Quillaja Saponaria gently foams away toxins and debris for a super-clean surface. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors.

With all of these new products on the markets, such as primers, BB Creams, fillers and long-lasting cosmetics – the Double Cleanse Method is the only way to get your skin clean. These products are filled with silicons and oils that a single cleanse cannot penetrate. Try this method and I am sure you will never go back.

Performing the Dermalogica Double Cleanse:

1. Remove eye and lip make-up by dispensing PreCleanse onto damp cotton.
2. Shake a generous amount of PreCleanse into dry hands and spread between the palms.
3. Sweep PreCleanse across neck, cheeks and forehead. Begin the step-by-step Dermalogica Professional Cleansing Technique listed below.

a. Starting at the neck, spread PreCleanse across the face by using light, upward circles with fingertips.
b. Continue by circling chin and cheeks, paying special attention to areas of congestion.
c. Use one fingertip on both sides of the nostril, then circle around the side and top of the nose.
d. Come between the eyebrows and continue circles over forehead, making sure to include the hairline.
e. Wet hands and massage over PreCleanse to create a light, milky emulsion.

4. Remove with the dampened cleansing cloth to gently exfoliate for ultra-clean, super smooth skin!
5. Commence second cleanse with recommended Dermalogica Cleanser.

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.

 

Holy Grail: Laura Mercier Tone Perfecting Eye Gel Creme

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Do you suffer from dark circles and/or puffy eyes? Welcome to the 80th percentile of planet Earth.

Most people think dark circles are a telltale sign of tiredness, or the unsightly evidence involving one too many margaritas. That is true to a certain extent, as fatigue makes skin dull, and drinking alcohol dehydrates and thins the skin. But the most likely culprit causing chronic dark circles, dermatologists say, is excess pigmentation in the skin and dilated blood vessels that sit close to the thin under-eye skin. Unfortunately, both of these perpetrators are hereditary and are just sitting there bathing in your gene pool.

Aside from surgery there are few options that can really penetrate pigment cells. But there are options to brighten and tighten the eye area, constricting blood vessels to minimize darkness and tissue swelling.

Laura Mercier Tone Perfecting Eye Gel Creme is just the relief you need to brighten and perfect the eye area. The lightweight gel reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, giving the eye area a visibly brighter, more awakened look.

Tone Perfecting Eye Gel Creme is formulated with Oligopeptide-68, a peptide that is said to inhibit tyrosinase activity, melanin synthesis, and decrease the proteins involved in the pigmentation process. It also contains Ash Tree Bark extract, know to help the appearance of puffiness and Sodium Hyaluronate to smooth the skin.

According to Jeffrey Tasker, International Makeup Artist for Laura Mercier, Laura hired a doctor to formulate this eye cream for her own use. It worked so well, she decided to share it to the world by including it in her skin care line.

This is my holy grail daytime eye cream for one simple reason – effects are immediate. When I wake up with puffy, tired eyes I go directly to my refrigerator (where I keep my eye cream) and apply. The cold, soothing gel absorbs quickly into the skin and feels incredibly nourishing. Instantly my sleepy, puffy eyes are brighter and refreshed. Long term, this product promises to improve the tone and texture of the skin. I have not used long enough to notice these results, however, I believe I soon will.

Questions about Laura Mercier? 

Contact:

Christina D. Torres

Business Manager

Cosmetics, Laura Mercier

T: 949/610-1420

E: christina.d.torres@nordstrom.com

Four Favorites: Face Oil

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There is often a misconception about the use of oil on the face. I believe that the term “oil-free” has brainwashed us to reject these magnificent moisturizers. Face oils can be more effective at hydrating the skin than a cream or gel-based moisturizer. Oil is able to sink to the surface of the skin and penetrate two of the five layers of the epidermal, producing quicker results. They nourish the skin, adding powerful vitamins and antioxidants, and help balance the skin’s natural oil production.

The best face oils are all-natural products made from pure oils and other plant-based ingredients. If a product combines oil with synthetic fillers, it looses it’s effectiveness. Here are my four favorites:

Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil: Formulated with an aromatic blend of 11 essential oils, this opulent oil relies on flowers and botanicals for their calming and illuminating properties. A staple of many top pros and makeup artists, this oil can be used to take makeup off, to moisturize and as a massage oil (expensive massage oil?). Add a couple drops to foundation to create a dewy finish or pat on the cheekbones and undereyes for a beautiful, fresh glow. Just a few drops will make your skin look radiant. Use as an alternate or supplement to your moisturizer and apply whenever your face needs a pick-me-up.

Creator, Linda Rodin spent over a year mixing oils in her bathroom (in a coffee cup) to make the elixir to satisfy all her beauty needs. She does not promise miracles–she is neither a chemist nor a scientist. She is interested in simple, natural products that work.  In her own words, “the product makes skin look more alive”. 

Decléor Aromessence Neroli Essential Serum: Full Blog Post Review HERE.

SUTI Nourish Organic Face Oil for Night: A potent blend of 15 plant and flower extracts that strengthen the skin and promotes the regrowth of skin cells while you sleep. Formulated with Avocado, Sesame, Patchouli and Bergamot to heal, replenish and plump-up dehydrated skin; Macadamia and Geranium to balance the production of sebum (the skin’s natural oil production) for healthy moisture retention; Argan Oil to calm irritated, inflamed and blemished skin and Apricot Kernel to help promote dermal elasticity. This combination is intensively “nourish”-ing, luxurious, and smells of fragrant jasmine. Skin looks glowing, bright and plump in the morning, like you’ve just had a wonderful night’s sleep.

SUTI is created by two sister-in-laws Suzannah and Tina (the “Su” and “Ti”). SUTI is a small, impeccably crafted line from the UK that uses only sustainably sourced, organically grown ingredients, hand-blended into the finest and gentlest of facial oils, balms and tonics.

Alpha-H Age Delay Facial Oil: A preventative and corrective solution formulated with nine of nature’s finest oils: Apricot Oil for it’s protection and softening properties; Rose Hip Oil to repair and strengthen: Wheat Germ to nourish; Calendula to regenerate; Carrot Oil to improve skin texture and miximize moisture levels; Frankincense for it’s firming and toning benefits; German Chamomile to soothe; Lavender to heal; Patchouli to aid in repairing cells and balance the skin. This facial oil is a synergistic mix that works to slow the aging process by protecting the skin against free radical damage, repair cell damage and sun damage. Deeply hydrates and firms the skin for instant, noticeable results. Your skin will drink this oil up and immediately feel soothed and nourished.

Australia’s leading professional salon treatment brand, Alpha-H pioneered the use of fruit acids in skin care nearly 20 years ago. Their cult cosmeceutical formulas are endorsed by a global following of clinicians, make-up artists and beauty writers and are relied upon by thousands of therapists worldwide for their fast and visible results on signs of ageing, sun damage, sensitivity and acne.

Skin Rehab: Exuviance Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10)

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Get glowing, healthy-looking skin instantly with one swipe of Exuviance Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10). This one-step, daily peel gently exfoliates the skin delivering a powerful dose of protective antioxidants to help prevent visible signs of aging.

The Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10) is formulated with 10% Citric Acid (antioxidant found in citrus fruits) to exfoliate dead skin cells, neutralize free radicals, and help prep skin for moisturizer and serum absorption. With no rinsing or recovery time required, the result is impossibly smooth skin with improved texture and tone.

Exuviance Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10) is an amazing rehab for the skin. Gentle enough for everyday use, this peel provides the instant gratification of glowing skin after every use.

The product comes with a  jar containing 36 pads (+1 test pad), and a bottle of solution. When ready to start the regime, pour the solution over the pads and let it soak in. Then begin to use one pad over the face (can also be used on hands, neck and chest) each morning, or as tolerated. Skincare and makeup can be applied immediately after. There is no rinsing, waiting period, stinging, drying or flaking.

In a clinical study, 100% of participants reported healthier looking skin, smoother texture and a more even tone after just one use.

“The skin is constantly shedding and renewing itself. Failure of old cells to slough off leads to a dull, more aged appearance to the skin. This peel is an innovative way to incorporate gentle exfoliation and antioxidant protection into your daily routine with one easy swipe. It’s formulated by the dermatologists who created the original glycolic peel, and utilizes 10% Citric Acid to scavenge damaging free radicals brought on by environmental exposure and help prevent future signs of aging. I recommend using it between office visits to help refine skin texture, smooth fine lines, even skin discoloration, and help diminish the appearance of acne scars and environmental damage.” -Dr. Julie K. Karen, a board certified dermatologist who currently practices at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of NY.

What are AHAs – Alpha-Hydroxyacids?

AHAs are a group of naturally ocurring acids, many of which are found in fruits (hence “fruit-acids”). AHAs are used to help improve a variety of skin disorders including xerosis (dry skin), acne, ichthyosis, seborrheic keratoses and psoriasis. They also improve pigmentary disorders and symptoms of photo-aging; such as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, skin laxity and dullness.

AHAs penetrate the dead surface cells of the skin, loosening the molecular bonds that attach them to the underlying tissues. The loose cells slough off, exposing newer skin.

The following are the 5 major types of alpha-hydroxy acids found in skincare products and their sources:

• glycolic acid – sugar cane
• lactic acid – milk
• malic acid – apples and pears
• citric acid – oranges and lemons
• tartaric acid – grapes

About Citric Acid:

Citric acid is a substance that is found naturally in citrus fruits. It is a powerful antioxidant that can improve the health of skin cells. It stimulates collagen production, fights and protects from free radicals, has skin lightening properties, reduces fine lines and wrinkles and improves the appearance of scars.

Summer Must-Have: Facial Mists

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Stay cool this summer with a tantalizing facial mist. A Summer must-have, these sprays will instantly boost your spirits and skin. Throw one in your handbag, beach-bag and/or travel-bag for a quick pick-me-up. Here are my five favorites:

TIP: Always refrigerate facial mists for extra freshness and stimulation.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir is great for those wanting a quick radiance boost. Part-toner/part-serum, this potion contains a mix of essential oils that will tighten pores and awaken the skin. Mist onto face anytime your skin feels dull and in need of a little hydration. Great for travel.

Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water is an uplifting aromatherapy water that refreshes and hydrates the skin. Made from the bitter orange blossom, this facial spray soothes and hydrates the skin. The moment your face feels tight, one spritz will instantly hydrate and refresh the skin. Use as a toner after cleansing the face or as a body spray after showering. Perfect for après beach.

Chantiecaille Pure Rosewater ~ See full review HERE.

Avène Thermal Spring Water is a mineral-rich water, great for softening and soothing sensitive skin. Gentle and effective on irritated, sunburned and post surgery/procedure skin. This calming solution provides antioxidant protection that leaves a soothing barrier on the skin. It creates a dewy, healthy finish on the skin. Essential for sensitive skin.

Suti Peppermint Water is a cooling burst of refreshing hydration. Known as the “wake-up” water, this facial spray stimulates the senses as well as the skin. Made with organic peppermint leaves this facial spray relieves redness, inflammation and is famous for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. It instantly energizes and replenishes the skin creating a healthy glow. A beach-bag must-have.

Healthy Skin from Within: Nordic Naturals Complete Omega – 3.6.9

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There are a million reasons to take an omega-3 supplement everyday. One of the many is that EFAs or essential fatty acids control a large number of cellular processes in the body that directly relate to the health of your skin, hair and nails. Before I get to that, let’s look at the numerous benefits of fish oil.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are considered “essential fats” because they are required for optimal health but cannot be produced by the body. EFAs can be found in fish, flaxseeds, walnuts and canola. Fish oil supplies the most beneficial omega-3s, which are: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Eating actual fish (mostly oily, cold water fish like salmon, tuna, herring and sardines) is the best food source of EPA and DHA, but due to concerns about toxins such as mercury, a fish oil supplement is the safest source.

OMEGA-3:  EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

*Healthy heart and body*

• Maintains a healthy heart and circulatory system
• Enhances joint flexibility and movement
• Promotes healthy immune function
• Supports optimal metabolism and body composition
• Promotes balanced blood sugar levels
• Supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response

OMEGA-3:  DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

*Healthy mood, mind and memory*

• Supports learning and memory
• Promotes positive mood and well-being
• Supports and protects the brain, eyes, nervous and immune systems
• Essential for the proper development of infants and children
• Recommended by physicians for pregnant and lactating women

OMEGA-6:  GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)

*Healthy skin, hair and hormones*

• Nourishes hair and skin
• Supports healthy joints
• Enhances Hormonal Balance
• Maintains optimal body fat metabolism
• Supports positive mood
• Supports a regular menstrual cycle

OMEGA-9:  OA (Oleic Acid)

*Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels*

• Naturally occurs in fish oil
• A “good for you: omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid
• Supports healthy blood vessel function
• Promotes healthy cell membrane structure

Healthy Skin from Within:

Our skin cells need plenty of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Without these, our skin can become dry, dull, prone to premature aging and even inflamed. There are two key essential fatty acids that your skin and hair will love. Since your body doesn’t manufacture them, they must be sourced through food and/or supplements.

Omega-3s in fish oil have been shown to:

• Keep the skin hydrated thus helping to prevent dry skin and other skin conditions
• Help soothe scaly, rough skin by reducing unnecessary inflammation
• Improve blood flow and support the elasticity of red blood cells thereby providing more oxygen to nourish the skin
• Encourage the production of strong collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis making skin look younger by reducing wrinkling and sagging

GLA is an Omega-6 fatty acid that occurs naturally in evening primrose and borage oils and has shown to:

• Relieve dry skin
• Reduce hair loss
• Provide relief for eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Your skin is the largest organ in the body and allows approximately 60% of “what goes on it, to go inside it”. Anything that increases the body’s ability to maintain integrity in our highly polluted world is a plus for your beauty routine.

Nordic Naturals is the leading manufacturer of fish oil in the United States. They are committed to delivering the world’s safest, most effective omega oils. The Complete Omega – 3.6.9 is an omega-rich blend that contains all the needed ingredients to support heart health, brain function, positive mood, healthy joints, as well as healthy hair, skin and nails. It has a fresh lemon taste that ensures no fishy smell, taste or aftertaste and all research is based on third-party test results – resulting in an honest and pure product. You will not find a better fish oil than Nordic Naturals.

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.

▶ 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.

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.)

Sun-Kissed Favorites: Bronzing Powders

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Bronzing Powders. The most purchased item in my collection. Used to create the illusion of sun-kissed skin without lying in the sun. Not only are they easy to apply, but they conceal, even-out skintone and create a more toned/sculpted appearance.

Bronzing powders should be placed strategically on the areas that would be naturally “kissed” by the sun: the forehead, bridge of nose, tops of cheeks, and chin. Take what’s left on the brush and blend onto the neck and décolleté so there is no line of demarcation. Bronzer should be transluscent. The brush that you use will make a big difference in your application: denser, shorter hairs will pick up more pigment than looser, longer hairs. (Favorite: Bobby Brown Bronzer Brush).

Over-applying or picking the wrong shade will result in looking like Snookie. Everyone can wear bronzer, fair or dark skin, it’s just about knowing which shade works best for you. When picking out a bronzer, go about two shades deeper than your natural coloring, or choose a shade that is close to the color your skin naturally turns in the sun. Stay away from products that are frosted or have orange undertones, they will look artificial.

Matte and semi-matte bronzers ONLY! Matte bronzers look more natural than glitter or frosted products. Especially for contouring purposes, matte products are a must. (How-To Contour: Here) A small about of sheen/glow is okay, however, apply with a light hand. If you want the shimmer or highlight, add separately with a highlighting product.

FAVORITES:

Disclosure: I am constantly changing bronzers, daily. I have yet to find the “holy grail”, but will continue to search high and low. The favorites I have chosen are the products I reach for the most and believe to be universally flattering.

Laura Geller Bronze-n-Brighten: This is a great product for correction purposes. The multi-colored, baked layers provide redness relief and an even skintone. The “bronzing” layers add a lasting glow to the skin.

Bobby Brown Bronzing Powder: The universal bronzer. Available in seven shades for a wide range of complexions, this bronzer will suit anyone. The long-lasting formula is extremely smooth and silky and applies seamlessly.

Guerlain ‘Terracotta-Four Seasons’ Bronzer: Guerlain is considered to be the “ultimate bronzing authority”. With many great products to choose from, the Terracotta-Four Seasons can be used all year long. The idea is to blend the four colors together in different variations to reach your desired color for every season.

Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Faux Tan & Warmth All-Over Face Color: Both of these powders are my most reached for bronzers. Quick and easy, these bronzing powders bring “life” to the skin. Use separately to create healthy-looking skin in seconds. Mix them together for a radiant “sun-goddess” look.

Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Moisturizing Bronzing Powder: When my skin is looking a bit dull or flat, this is the bronzer I use. It produces a nice glow on the skin and the color is very subtle. This is the most natural looking bronzing powder I have used.

Honorable Mentions:

NARS Laguna: I have a love/hate relationship with this bronzer. Sometimes it looks amazing and other times it just looks dirty.

Too Faced Caribbean in a Compact in Sun Bunny: Great color, too much shimmer. This is a great product to use on chest/legs and décolleté.

QUESTION?

What are your favorite bronzing powders?

Floral Water: Chantecaille Rosewater

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Chantecaille Rosewater

Rosewater is a by-product made when producing rose oil. It is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A and has antioxidants that help transform dull, tired skin to radiant, glowing skin.

Rose is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties. It is excellent for maintaining hydrated skin and combats pre-mature aging. Rose water helps to balance the pH of the skin, controlling both dry and oily skin and can also soothe many types of dermatitis.

Chantecaille Rosewater contains 100% of the Rose de Mai, an antique rose named after the month of May, when it blooms. It is harvested by hand and distilled in the purest artesian well water to produce this healing, moisturizing and uplifting spray.

Continuing my love of French skincare, it is said that Rosewater has been used in the beauty ritual of French women for centuries. It can also be used in many different ways: to enhance skincare, as a make-up setting spray, body fragrance, linen spray, hair-freshener…

Chantecaille Rosewater is a wonderful treat for both the skin and the senses.

 

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.

Holy Grail Product: Giorgio Armani Master Corrector

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Giorgio Armani Master Corrector

Taming dark under-eye circles can be tricky –  it is a combination of heredity and genetics. The skin below the eyes is very thin and delicate. Veining and excess pigmentation in the skin appears more prominently, and darkness manifests. The easiest way to conceal this problem is to correct.

The Master Corrector by Giorgio Armani is a corrective concealer designed for specific complexion concerns. It is available in two color-balancing shades specific to under-eye area; #1 Pink (refreshes dull skin and diminishes yellow pigmentation) and #2 Orange (neutralizes any blue, purple and brown tones as well as freckles, dark spots and hyper-pigmentation).

The Master Corrector in #2 Orange effectively neutralizes all under-eye discoloration. The color is not a true orange, more of a beige/peach/salmon color. It blends seamlessly and the staying power of this corrector is exceptional. This shade will work on any skin-tone, and can be applied under concealer for additional coverage.

Banish dark circles easily and effectively with Giorgio Armani Master Corrector.

Smoke & Mirrors: MAC Cream Colour Base

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MAC Cream Colour Base Pearl

Subtle shimmer is flattering on any skin tone. Possibly the easiest way to cheat the look of healthy dewy skin is to add a bit of glow to the skin.

MAC Cream Colour Bases are easy to use and come in an array of beautiful colors. The texture is silky and smooth and apply with ease and grace. Pearl is my shade of choice when skin is looking a bit dull. This icy champagne color reflects light and creates a luminescent glow to the skin. Apply to cheekbones, bridge of the nose and cupids bow to manufacture a dewy-looking complexion.

MAC Cream Colour Bases can also be used on eyes and lips. Apply as an eyeshadow base to intensify any color layered on top or use alone for a more natural look, just make sure to set with powder. First rule of applying makeup is alway apply liquid, gel or cream product before powder to set and keep makeup from slipping. 

Makeup is all about smoke and mirrors, find the areas you would like to hide or emphasize and fake it.