▶ 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.
Blog Archives
Fantastic Flat: Splendid Newberry Flat
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Soft, supple suede and cushiony sole, makes Splendid’s Newberry Flat one of my new favorite finds. Available in a multitude of bright colors and everyday neutrals, it is hard to choose just one.
My first purchase, Sand (pictured), pairs well with everything and works well with my work wardrobe. However, I am already contemplating a next purchase in Punch (bright red) and, of course, Black.
This simple ballet flat looks delicate and girly. The suede is so soft I was afraid they would loose structure quickly. However, I am pleasantly surprised that they are holding up so well after very long work weeks.
Finding a simple, comfortable flat is not as easy as it looks. These fulfill all your basic everyday needs, wrapped up in a simple and elegant design. Try them – let me know what you think.
Simply Amazing: Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream
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Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream is a lightweight, moisturizing formula that creates soft styles for a natural feel. It conditions, hydrates, fights frizz, adds definition, creates soft hold, tames fly-aways and refreshes day-old styles… Simply Amazing.
Ideal for overprocessed and dry hair, Hydrating Styling Cream can be used on both wet and dry hair. As thick and nourishing as it feels – it does not weigh the hair down, nor does it feel sticky or greasy. Hair is left incrediably soft and managable and 100% hydrated.
Like all Moroccanoil products, Hydrating Styling Cream smells incrediable and is perfect for the hot summer months. Using antioxidant-loaded Argan oil, Hydrating Styling Cream will protect hair from humidity and heat. Preserve summer hair with Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream.
Pint-Sized Palette: Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette
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Launching in the US tomorrow, November 29th, is the Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette. This pint-sized palette features five matte shades and one demi-matte shade. Four of the six shades are new and exclusive to this palette.
Perfect for travel or on-the-go, this palette can fit in your wallet or purse. It contains six full-sized eyeshadows, which include: Venus (soft, off-white demi-matte), Foxy (very light yellow/beige matte), Walk of Shame (very light pinky nude matte), Naked 2 (rosy taupe matte), Faint (warm, dusty brown matte), and Crave (deepest, darkest brown/black matte).
Urban Decay’s matte eyeshadows are some of the best I have used. They are in no way chalky, powdery or dry but super silky, finely-milled and pigmented. They are also long-lasting and true-to-color.
Starting on November 29th the Naked Basics Palette will be available at Urban Decay, Sephora, Ulta and select Macy’s. If you love neutrals and nudes to create a subtle and dramatic definition, then you will love the Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette.
Spot On: Polka Dots
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Perk up a drab wardrobe with some polka-dots. The playful pattern is flirty, retro, whimsical and befitting at any age.
The classic style has evolved from Minnie Mouse to runways and red-carpets. It’s a style for all seasons, simply because it exudes an undeniably youthful flair, and yet remains an incredibly timeless option for women of all ages. Since the pattern is not restricted to one size, these pieces can be bold and vibrant or soft and subtle. The design adds texture to any ensemble and can be worn in a dramatic or casual fashion. Mix and match with other quirky patterns and prints for a bit of drama or use as the focal piece for casual style. Embrace the spotty trend this season and seasons to come with polka dots.
Spotted… a few of my favorite pieces:
JCrew ~ Polka Dot Dress: $198.00
Madewell ~ Dotted Chambray Boyshirt: $72.00
Madewell ~ Calf Hair Polka Dot Belt: $48.00
Mango ~ TOUCH Polka-Dot Wool Foulard: $69.99
JCrew ~ Polka-Dot Cashmere Sweater: $268.00
Comme des Garçons ~ Polka-Dot Leather Coin Purse: $155.00
Miu Miu ~ Sandali Polka Dot Cotton Sandals: $495.00
Open Ceremony ~ Shirley Polka Dot Haircalf Booties: $506.00
Paige Denim ~ Verdugo Ultra Skinny (selection of colors): $189.00
ModCloth ~ Dash of Dots Tights: $14.99
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.
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.)
Drugstore’s Finest: CeraVe
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Recommended by dermatologists everywhere, the CeraVe line of skincare products are all non-irritating, non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Better yet, they are all available at a drugstore near you.
The CeraVe line was created in conjunction with dermatologists and was intended for use in the treatment of dry skin and other conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea and atopic dermatitis. CeraVe is the first brand to contain essential ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids that healthy skin needs. CeraVe uses a patented “multivescular emulsion” or MVE® system that was only available through prescription not long ago. This system consists of a controlled and steady release of various ingredients over time allowing skin to be hydrated longer and more efficiently with one application. The daily regimen of cleansers and moisturizers helps repair, replenish and protect the skin’s barrier to leave it looking and feeling soft, clean and healthy.
The CeraVe line of skincare products are drugstore’s finest. Here is a review of the first few products I have tried and tested:
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser: Gentle yet powerful, this cleanser removes makeup, dirt and oil like a champ. It leaves the face feeling soft and clean, not stripped or dry. It contains the brand’s signature ceramides and hyaluronic acid – two ingredients that help lock in moisture so your skin will never feel tight or dry.
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM SPF 30: A great daytime moisturizer that feels light on the skin but wards off UVA/UVB rays with it’s standout broad-spectrum sunscreen. It keeps skin hydrated and restores the skin’s barrier with Niacinaminde (vitamin B3) making it less vulnerable to the elements.
CeraVe SA Renewing Lotion: This body lotion does it all – exfoliates, smoothes and softens. Skin can only be truly hydrated when the top layer of dead skin cells are removed. This allows moisturizing ingredients to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. The Renewing Lotion does all of this for you. Formulated with both salicylic acid (used for epidermal exfoliation) and ammonium lactate (a mild exfoliant and humectant) this lotion gently removes dry, scaly skin. While, vitamin D, glycerin, ceramides and hyaluronic acid smooths, firms and hydrates the skin.
CeraVe, in my opinion, is the best affordable line of skincare products. All of the products are gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, non-irritating and readily available at mass retailers and drugstores nationwide.
Classic Wedge: STEVEN by Steve Madden Banndo
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STEVEN by Steven Madden Banndo is the perfect wedge to have in your collection. This shoe will pair perfectly with any color, pattern or style it is coupled with. The sandy suede texture has a soft, comfortable feel while the lightweight synthetic wedge adds support.
Pair these shoes with Spring florals and pastels. They are the perfect height for flared denim as well as a flattering shape for cropped. Available in leather or suede, black or tan, this classic wedge will wear perfectly all spring and summer long.
Spring Palette: Laura Mercier Lingerie Eye & Cheek Palette
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The limited-edition Laura Mercier Lingerie Eye & Cheek Palette is the perfect vehicle to transition into Spring. This warm, neutral palette features six eye colors and two cheek colors that effectively create a multitude of different looks.
The eyeshadows are extremely soft, pigmented and include all finishes: Luster, Sateen, Matte. The blushes appear a bit shocking but apply quite sheer. The formula is buildable and can be used separately or blended together to create a beautiful peachy-pink glow.
This is a great palette to add to anyone’s collection. Perfect for brides, travel or simply everyday, the warm tones will complement any skintone.
Included:
Eye Color: Buff Pearl (Luster), Tawny Apricot (Sateen), Rich Cocoa (Matte), Pale Pink (Matte), African Violet (Luster), Black Plum (Matte) Cheek Color: Rose Desire, French Peach
Back to Basics: Layering Favorites
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Layering articles of clothing is not only practical but stylish. The art of layering will create insulation to keep you warm but will also lay the foundation for a very versatile wardrobe.
Start with your favorite basics. When shopping for basics, buy for comfort and quality. This will ensure getting the most wear out of the article of clothing. Then… buy in quantity. If you love a particular piece – purchase in different colors, patterns or styles.
For instance, H&M tanks and camis are great – they are cheap, come in an array of colors/patterns and are made long in length. It is quite difficult to find a good tank, long enough to cover the bum when wearing leggings or tights. These tanks will also layer beautifully under just about anything, without any added bulk.
Old Navy is another great place to find layering basics. I love the light-weight v-necks and crew-necks. They are soft, comfortable, inexpensive and come in great basic colors. I wear them everywhere from the gym to work. On their own, accessorized with a great scarf or layered under a sequin/leather/boyfriend blazer to create a textured-casual look.
When it comes to quality, Splendid and KAIN Label, are unbeatable. They both provide silk blend basics that are extraordinarily comfortable and styles that are continuously on trend each season. These are the best basic pieces to collect each season, that will last a lifetime.
What are your favorite basics?
Favorite Flat: Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin
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Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin
My winter flip-flop is currently the Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin. Purchased after the holidays, I have yet to take them off.
These exceptionally comfortable flats are made of soft, rich suede with fringe and braided detail. The finely crafted rubber sole provides traction and stability.
Casual and carefree, these moccasins can be coupled with everything from skinny jeans to sweats, cut-off shorts to mini skirts.
These rustic moccasin can be worn year-round. Paired with a sundress or shorts, the Minnetonka Moccasins will create a free-spirited style.
Holy Grail: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps
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Kiehls Creme de Corps
Kiehl’s was founded as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village over 150 years ago. Their products are made with the finest ingredients in unique formulations to assure high quality skincare products. Currently a subsidiary of French cosmetics giant L’Oreal, Kiehl’s can be found in department and flagship stores worldwide.
Creme de Corps body lotion is the brand’s best-selling product. Kiehl’s produces over 1,000,000 ounces of Creme de Corps each year. Used incessantly on models backstage to create glowing skin, this body lotion leaves skin soft, smooth and beautifully moisturized. The ultra-rich formula glides on seamlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft – not greasy. The unscented body lotion is formulated with rich butters, oils and beta carotene to provide all-day hydration.
By far, the best body lotion I have ever used. No matter how many products I try and test, Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is what I reach for the most.
Tip: Purchase Kiehl’s products at flagship stores, if possible. These stores are known for their generous sample supply. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Boot Week: Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot
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Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot
Boot Week continues with the wearable wedge boot.
The Eldora Suede Wedge Boot from Vera Wang Lavender Label has a wedge heel to give you a sturdier stance when standing out in the crowd. The classic suede silhouette features a full-length exposed zipper on the inner lining. The chocolate brown suede is incredibly soft and couples beautifully with fall and winter colors.
The wedge boot offers stylish poise. Providing comfort and stability, this is a great boot to have in bad weather or running around town. Wear these boots over your tightest denim, add a chunky knit sweater and floppy hat and you are all set.
With this wearable wedge from Vera Wang Lavender Label, standing tall is a little easier.
Boot Week: Vince Camuto Braden Boot
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Vince Camuto Braden
Boot Week continues with the stacked heel.
The Braden Boot from Vince Camuto is a round toe boot with a western-style twist. The over-the-knee silhouette allows you to wear it as slouchy as desired. The pull-on style will pair nicely with any skinny denim or legging. The suede is soft and buttery and this taupe color will agree with everything in your closet.
Currently on sale, the price-point is fantastic. Available in leather or suede and in different colors, the Braden Boot from Vince Camuto is all it’s stacked up to be.
Denim Expedition: Seven For All Mankind
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California Coast Classic Straight Leg Jeans
Shopping for jeans is an exhausting experience. Hauling 15 pairs of denim into the dressing room, hoping that at least one is the perfect fit, style and color.
Seven For All Mankind Classic Straight Leg in California Coast is my current blue ribbon-winner. Wanting to test-drive a new style and vear away from the skinny jean, I went looking for a pair of jeans I could live-in. Don’t get me wrong I do love the skinny, however, sometimes I want jeans to look like jeans and not second skin.
The Classic Straight Leg is exactly that…classic. Form-fitting in all the right areas to accentuate the body, but leaves room for comfort, detail and style. These jeans are soft and comfortable and have an amazing stretch. The dark inky-blue wash is my favorite for everyday jeans, polished and perfectly worn-in.
Stylish Snood: AllSaints Yossi Snood Hood
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AllSaints Yossi Snood Hood
A Snood (also known as infinity scarf) is a tubular neck scarf that resembles a close-fitting hood worn over head. Popular in the 1940s, women used them to keep their long hair out of the way.
This versatile scarf-hood hybrid is both stylish and practical. It can be worn around shoulders or propped-up over head and will not only keep you warm but protect hair and face from weather conditions.
The Yossi Snood Hood by AllSaints is simple and chic. It is soft and comfy with cable knit detailing. Also available in black and cream, the Yossi Snood Hood is a must-have accessory for Fall.
Get Naked! Urban Decay Naked Palette
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Urban Decay Naked Palette
Everyday makeup couldn’t be easier with Urban Decay’s Naked Palette. Great for back to school, this palette contains every shade needed for neutral makeup looks.
This palette arrived for Fall 2010 and flew off the shelves. Now available as a staple in Urban Decay’s collection, the Naked Palette can be found wherever the brand is sold.
Urban Decay Naked Palette contains twelve shades, ten with shimmer or glitter and two matte. The two matte shades, Naked (beige-brown) and Buck (dark beige-brown) are two of the best shadows I have ever used. They can perform as eyeshadow, contour or even to fill-in light to medium colored brows.
Each of the twelve shades are soft, buttery and richly pigmented. Shades range from delicate champagnes and warm golds to rich chocolates and dark charcoals. The colors are universally flattering and can can be used on all skintones.
Included with the palette is a mini Urban Decay Primer Potion and a pro-quality “Good Karma” eyeshadow brush. This is an essential palette to have in your collection. With twelve beautiful neutral shades to choose from there are hundreds of looks that can be created.
Magnificent Monoi: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask
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Carol's Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask
Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Mask is hands down the best smelling hair product I have ever used.
After the long summer, a deep nourishing hair treatment is needed to rescue damaged dull hair. Sun, salt and wind can take a toll on both hair and scalp.
Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Mask is a decadent hair treatment. It contains Monoi Oil that deeply nourishes, Bamboo Water to strengthen and Hydrolyzed Silk to fortify hair against future damage.
I use this mask out of the shower on clean hair and sleep in it. It smells of jasmine and monoi that is incredibly invigorating. The next morning my hair is not greasy or weighed down. Hair becomes extremely soft, shiny, fragrant and manageable.
Healthy Hair: Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet
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Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet Treatment
External elements of summer render hair dry and damaged. To avoid this try using a deep conditioning treatment weekly to rebalance the moisture of dry hair.
Shu Uemura Art of Hair is one of the best haircare lines out there. Inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony, the Art of Hair beauty ceremony delivers a highly precise and uniquely customized treatment, targeting problem areas. The products feel extremely luxurious and indulgent. After just one use, you will see a significant difference in your hair’s texture and health.
Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet Nourishing Treatment for Dry Hair is a deep conditioning mask that creates smooth velvety hair texture. Hair feels soft and smooth and split ends are noticeably sealed. Instantly, hair feels more healthy, vibrant and shiny.
Tried & Tested: Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque
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Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque
Dermalogica Multivitamin Recovery Masque is a great remedy for dull, tired or irritated skin. The concentrated formula of vitamins, antioxidants and botanical extracts leave the skin glowing and healthy.
The formula consists of Vitamins A, C, E, F and Pro-Vitamin B5 which help repair and restore. Beta Glucan, a biological defense modifier, soothes irritated skin and enhances moisture barrier properties. Nutrient-rich Algae Extract moisurizes and softens skin and Licorice, Comfrey and Burdock soothe skin and decrease sensitivity.
When you rinse this masque off the face, you are instantly left with a fresh glow and healthy-looking skin. The face feels soft and smooth, free from irritation and redness.
This is the perfect treatment to use after a late night or when the skin needs a good pick-me-up. It brings the skin back to life and replenishes all the missing vitamins and nutrients.
Glow-T 