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Picture Perfect: NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder
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For Spring 2013, NARS introduces an innovative new mineral setting powder, available in both loose and pressed formulas. Light Reflecting Setting Powder helps skin “shine through makeup,” enhancing the look of foundation and extending makeup wear – all without a trace of color.
Formulated with NARS’ exclusive “Light Reflecting Complex,” this translucent powder promises to fade fine lines, wrinkles, and pores creating visibly smooth skin. Vitamin E and glycerin help guard against dryness and provide a luminous soft matte finish. Ideal for touch-ups, regulating shine, and seamlessly setting foundation. Paraben-free. Fragrance-free. Non-Comedogenic.
This ultra-silky powder uses a form of silicone, mineral silica, to matify, blur and fill-in fine lines and pores. It feels amazing and creates super smooth skin. The finely-milled powder is stark white but leaves no chalky residue or “powdery” appearance. Infused with Photochromic Technology, Light Reflecting Setting Powder adjusts to new sources of light throughout the day. Great for flash photography, there us no reflection or flashback. It sets foundation beautifully and makes the face look luminous, smooth and just pretty.
Powerful Peptides: REN Keep Young and Beautiful Anti-Aging Eye Cream
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“Keep Young and Beautiful” with REN’s new anti-aging eye cream. REN Keep Young and Beautiful Anti-Aging Eye Cream promises to dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet and deep expression lines around the eye area.
Rich in skin-plumping peptides and moisture-boosting collagen, REN’s new eye cream contains Hexapeptide-11, a plant peptide that stimulates collagen production for firmer skin. Peptides, or mini proteins if you want to think of them that way, are active molecules that send signals to your cells. When collagen breaks down, it forms specific peptides that signal to your skin that it was damaged and needs to make new collagen. So by applying peptides topically, we can trick the skin into thinking that it has lost collagen and needs to make more.
REN Keep Young and Beautiful Anti-Aging Eye Cream is wonderful for sensitive skin, as it is free from perfume, petroleum and parabens. The lightweight formula feels incredibly moisturizing and sinks into the skin in seconds. After just three weeks of using the product I have noticed a more hydrated and smoother eye area. I will continue to use this product as I have already noticed a positive difference. I expect to see more positive changes in the near future.
Summer Travel: Beauty Essentials
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Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a long-haul to an exotic locale, there is nothing like a summer vacation. Look your best while traveling with these beauty essentials:
Oxylent Oxygenating Multivitamin Drink: The effervescent multivitamin drink is formulated with the highest quality of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and electrolytes. Perfect for travel, the convenient packets are easily transported, so you can drink it anytime, anywhere – just add water. It is great for keeping the immune system in peak condition; a low calorie choice before or after working out; a true friend to the outdoor enthusiast; an easy-to-use daily multivitamin; or a wonderful late afternoon pick-me-up at work. Oxylent not only offers a unique effervescent delivery system, but unlike most, all of the formulas are both sugar and calorie free. Oxylent’s formulas do not contain any gluten, caffeine, lactose, artificial sweeteners, flavors or colors.
Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water: This uplifting aromatherapy water instantly 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. Or keep cool in the refrigerator and spray on hot, humid days. Perfect for après beach.
Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum: This light yet powerful serum is both a moisturizer and a broad-spectrum SPF 30. It fights the signs of premature aging – think fine lines and sunspots – and prevents future photo-damage from UV rays. Built for year-round use, this serum is amazingly lightweight and comfortable. Supergoop’s unique Hydrovotin 24 complex works with the skin’s own moisture mechanisms to increase hydration levels, while vitamins E and B5 heal past damage. It absorbs both UVA rays that lead to premature aging and UVB rays that cause sunburn. The top-of-the-line “PA +++” rating means the formula meets the highest standards for sun protection. Also paraben and fragrance-free—just what the doctor ordered for sensitive skin.
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.
Dior Hydra Life BB Cream: READ FULL REVIEW: HERE
Bobbi Brown Bronzer/Blush Duo: Inspired by the look of “skin bathed in afternoon light,” this dynamic duo creates healthy-looking skin. On one side, Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronzing Powder in Bahama Brown packs a blend of sheer powder and micro pearls (for a seamlessly glowing finish all over the face). The other side boasts Bobbi Brown Shimmer Blush in Pink Peony, the perfect way to add a pop of color to the apples of cheeks. Great for travel, this duo eliminates bulk and the need for too many face products. Tip: Sweep bronzer over eyelids for instant contour.
MAC Bare Study Paint Pot: This multi-purpose paint pot is perfect for travel. Bare Study is a metallic nude/champagne cream eye shadow that can be used as a primer, eye shadow and/or highlighter. Sweep onto the eyelid before applying a powder shade to ensure longevity. For highlighting, pat product on the cheekbones, brow bone, cupid bow and décolletage for subtle illumination. The soft, light-reflecting pearl finish will brighten any area.
Kiehl’s Lip Balm SPF 15 in Hue 30G: Lip balm with SPF is a must while traveling. Lips are often neglected and can suffer the same effects of the sun just as much as any other part of the body. Kiehl’s Lip Balm SPF 15 offers protection, relief and color. Lip products like gloss, stains or lipsticks can attract the sun with their shiny finish. This formula combines a sheer wash of color with UVA and UVB protection. Hue 30G is a beautiful light golden color with peach undertones.
Blinc Mascara: I have a love/hate relationship with waterproof mascara. While most formulas do last all day, they are a pain to remove. Blinc Mascara is a “tubing” mascara. It uses a copolymer-based formula to create little tubes around each one of your lashes preventing flaking, running or smudging. The formula is waterproof, sweat-proof and won’t irritate even the most sensitive of eyes so you can wear it all day without worrying about touch-ups. At the end of the day, use a damp washcloth to gently dislodge the tubes. They’ll slide off with just a little pressure.
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray: READ FULL REVIEW: HERE
Adara Organic Virgin Coconut Oil for Body & Face: Organic and biologically pure, Adara Virgin Coconut Oil is a gorgeous multi-tasking body and hair oil. Great for travel, coconut oil solidifies when temperatures are below 76 degrees – this makes it wonderful to pack and not worry about leaking. Adara Virgin Coconut Oil is available in five scented oils and travel-size, Oriental Jasmine, Soothing Lavender, Heavenly Peach, Innocent Rose, and Refreshing Green Tea. (Favorite: Jasmine) READ MORE ABOUT THE BENEFITS & USES OF COCONUT OIL: HERE
Flo Refillable Perfume Atomizer: Packing a big glass perfume bottle can be inconvenient and cumbersome. Tote your favorite fragrance wherever you go with the Refillable Perfume Atomizer by FLO. This ingenious gadget allows you to carry your perfume in an easy-to-use, compact atomizer. The modern design enables fast and efficient refilling without a funnel – preventing any danger of spilling a single drop of your expensive perfume. Suitable for all types of perfumes, this atomizer holds up to 77 sprays. Perfect for a purse, clutch, beach bag or travel bag, never leave home without your favorite fragrance again.
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.
The Master List: SPACE.NK Event
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Last night I had the privilege of attending a wonderful event at SPACE.NK Costa Mesa hosted by local blogger and friend, Sarah Ollenberger of Juggling in Heels.
SPACE.NK is a luxury beauty retail (located inside Bloomingdales and stand-alone) filled with a well-edited selection of hard-to-find beauty products. Nicky Kinnaird, founder and the initials behind SPACE.NK, taught a master class revealing her must-have beauty products for summer. A weath of knowledge and experience, Nicky Kinnaird travels the world searching for the latest and greatest in beauty. The Master List is compiled of Nicky’s go-to products for protecting, enhancing and beautifying this summer.
THE MASTER LIST:
Eve Lom Treatment Cleanser: This cult favorite is your makeup remover, cleanser, toner, mild exfoliant, skin re-texturizer and brightener in a jar. (One of my favorites: review here)
Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads: A one-step exfoliator that evens out skin tone and minimizes pores.
Cane + Austin Retexturizing Body Pads: Glycolic treatment pads reveal a brighter, smoother body complexion while helping to rebuild collagen and firm the skin.
Ren Bio Retinoid Anti-Aging Concentrate: Retinol-like results without the irritation.
Bakel P-Lipic Serum: Deeply hydrating, skin strengthening serum that protects against free radical-damage.
Zelens Triple-Action Eye Cream: Hydrates, smoothes, lifts and minimized the appearance of dark circles.
37 Extreme Actives: The cream that does it all – eyes, face, neck… morning and evening.
Zelens 31 Complex Essential Anti-Aging Cream: Deeply hydrating antioxidant-loaded formula helps to minimize visible signs of aging.
By Terry Baume de Rose SPF15: Cult lip treatment that doubles as a cuticle cream.
NIA 24 Rapid Repigmentation Serum: Best to even out skin tone, addresses sun damage, freckles and age spots.
NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen: SPF 30, this oil-free formula contains 5%Pro-Niacin to strengthen skin and help repair sun damage. (One of my favorites-review here)
Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer: Keeps makeup fresh all day long.
By Terry Hyaluronic Eye Primer: Keeps eye makeup color true and fresh without caking or creasing all day.
By Terry Touche Veloutee: The perfect highlighting concealer brush. It instantly sweeps away any signs of fatigue, redness and minor imperfections. (One of my favorites: review here)
By Terry Terrybly Mascara: Lash growth boosting mascara.
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler: The best one out there.
Kevyn Aucoin Volumizing Mascara: Never smudges, never flakes, sweat-proof yet washes off with water.
Kevyn Aucoin Lip Glosses: On trend colors with a unique chubby applicator that mimics a makeup artist’s pinky.
Rococo Nail Apparel: Fashion-forward colors for the season: Lady Lavender (on trend lavender), T-Cup (vintage baby blue), VIP Red (the perfect red), Wild Roses (hot fuchsia pink).
Oribe Apres Beach Spray: Texturizing spray for tousled, touchable waves and sun-kissed shine.
Oribe Maximista: Maximum volume with thermal protection, gives enduring lify and hold.
Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray: Conceived and tested in Miami.
Institut Esthederm Bronz Repair Anti-Wrinkle Tanning Cream: Cult French anti-aging sunscreen for face.
Institut Esthederm Adaptasun Sea & Tropics Tanning Body Lotion: For safe tanning under extreme sun.
Life NK Japanese Wash Cloth: Unique textured cloth makes all-over body exfolliation simple.
Beautannia Brighton Bath & Shower Gel: Addictively scented paraben-free hydrating body cleanser scented with grapefruit, orris, sea moss and vetiver.
Beautannia Brighton Body Lotion: Moisturize, soften and protect the skin while polypeptides encourage firmness.
Sai-Sei Mineral Revive Body Veil: Super lightweight hydrating body veil with essential minerals from Japan’s Toyama hot springs.
David Kirsch Thermo Bubbles: Thermogenic blend of vitamins, minerals and herbs to help boost metabolism, curb your appetite and promote lean muscle mass.
David Kirsch Ultimate Detox Diet: Comprehensive detox and nutrition system that helps to jumpstart your wellness routine.
Sunday Riley Liquid Diet: Helps relieve swelling, bloating and puffiness, and smooth the appearance of cellulite.
In Peace eau de parfum: A sophisticated yet serence white floral perfume that blends freesia and pimento flower blossom with French iris and mimosa in a sunsual base of sandalwood and tonka bean. Created in partner ship with Women for Women International, 10% of proceeds benefits their sponsorship program for women survivors of war to enable them to rebuild their lives.
Increasing Awareness: Parabens
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Parabens are compounds used as preservatives in many cosmetics and beauty products. Many of these compounds are mild and safe to use on an everyday basis. However, there is one that I look-out for when purchasing cosmetics.
Methylparaben is an anti-fungal and preservative that may be found in many products including food, drugs, cosmetics and skin cream. It is used to kill unwanted bacteria, fungi and microbes that might grow in products and may be potentially harmful.
The October 3, 2006, issue of Toxicology published a study that shows when skin treated with creams that contain methylparaben were exposed to the sun’s UVB rays, the skin cells died and there was considerable oxidative stress on the skin’s tissue.
There is reason to be mindful of these chemicals but not to have an all-consuming concern. Always check the ingredients list before purchasing a product and become knowledgeable of what the ingredients are. Be observant of the products applied to skin that will be exposed to the sun. There are many products on the market that are paraben-free and I imagine more will be made available.
Glow-T Gift Guide: All-Natural
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Glow-T’s Gift Guide ends with all-natural gift ideas. Give the gift of products that support and promote a healthy lifestyle. All-natural, paraben-free, gluten-free and environmental-friendly items made from the finest ingredients.
From Red Apple Lipstick – a gluten-free, paraben-free and allergen-free lipstick that is incredibly pigmented, applies smoothly and moisturizes lips with vitamin E and Shea butter – to – fun holiday gift sets filled with all-natural products. Here are a few ideas for the green girl in your life.
Melvita ~ Rose Nectar Gift Set: $55.00
Red Apple Lipstick ~ Gluten-Free Lipstick: $17.50
LUSH ~ Happy Christmas: $44.95
Skinbotanica ~ Pure Fiji Island Bliss Gift Pack – Starfruit: $44.00
Dermstore ~ Pevonia Botanica Your Skincare Solution Safe Sun Face & Body Pack: $46.00
Tried & Tested: Laura Geller Balance & Bronze
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Laura Geller Balance & Bronze
Laura Geller Balance & Bronze is a dual compact providing foundation and bronzer in one.
The foundation is a baked formula with multiple veins of color-correcting properties. This powder provides a sheer veil of coverage that leaves skin balanced and glowing. Mineral oil and paraben-free, this foundation contains anti-aging and anti-oxidant protection.
The bronzer is also a baked formula with multiple veins of colors that provide a radiant, sun-kissed glow.
This is a great product for travel or to throw in your purse. The two items work nicely together but can also be used on their own. The Balance & Bronze is also a great item to try, if you are curious about the Laura Geller line, 2-in-1.
Glow-T & Protect: Face Sunscreen
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Living in California, I am constantly wearing, testing and trying new sunscreens. It is quite a battle sometimes, as my skin is slightly sensitive to Titanium Dioxide. I loath the “white face” residue certain sunscreens tend to leave behind and am always on the lookout for a product that is light, fresh and feels weightless.
Tocca Stella SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelette: These individually wrapped towelettes make sun-protection a cinch. Enriched with vitamins E, B5 and aloe, this sunscreen protects and moisturizes even the most sensitive skin, on-the-go.
Zinka Face Stick SPF 60: I have used Zinka products ever since I was a little girl. Although, I have matured from the hot pink color to clear, this product is still considerable. Zinka is a physical sunblock, in which it does not absorb into the skin, but sits on-top. Zinka products contain 5% zinc oxide which is a mild antimicrobial and wound healing substance. This sunscreen is too chalky and opaque for daily use but it is my go-to sunblock for an active day at the beach.
Colorscience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder Sun Protection SPF 50: This exceptional lightweight mineral powder is sheer and feels invisible on the skin. It is non-irritating with UVA and UVB sun protection. The self-dispensing powder brush makes re-applying simple and the it does not leave a “cakey” finish to the skin.
Kiehls Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+: The featherweight texture of this sunscreen feels like water on the skin. It is oil-free and extremely long-lasting broad-spectrum sunscreen. Kiehl’s Insider Tip: Layer over your moisturizer on clean skin for optimal UV protection and to help prevent skin aging.
Kate Somerville Protect SPF 55 Serum Sunscreen: This suncreen is a water-resistant serum that offers a rich does of antioxidants sans the white residue. It elegantly disappears into the skin and is intended for those with problematic skin and is Paraben-free.
Glow-T 