Glossy Punch: RMS Beauty’s Lip Shine in Sacred

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RMS Beauty’s Lip Shine in Sacred is certified organic and boasts a list of natural ingredients.

Adding just the right amount of color and shine, Sacred is a punchy coral hue that instantly brightens the face.

Drenched with vitamins, antioxidants and oils, lips feel nourished and conditioned. Lightweight and balmy, RMS Beauty’s Lip Shine creates glossy, pouty lips.

Added to the cheeks, Sacred creates a healthy flush. Perfect to throw in your bag for on-the-go color options.

Superfood Election: Amazing Grass

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Change the way you eat your greens with Amazing Grass. Green SuperFood is a full spectrum of alkalizing green superfoods, antioxidant rich fruits and Acai and Maca to provide a powerful dose of whole food nutrition. Here is the kicker… they are delicious.

Amazing Grass has created three new tantalizing flavors that will make you crave your greens rather than dread them. One serving delivers more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. The three new flavors include: Pineapple Lemongrass, Citrus Ginger and Cucumber Watermelon. My favorite is Pineapple Lemongrass.

Amazing Grass Green Superfood are formulated with the highest quality of organic ingredients.

Greens: wheat grass, barley grass, alfalfa grass, spirulina, chlorella, spinach, broccoli

Berries: acai, maca, carrot, beet, raspberry, rose hips, pineapple, green tea, acerola cherry

Fibers: flax seed, apple pectin

Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics: F.O.S.(a prebiotic), L. acidophilus, protease, amylase, lipase, lactase, cellulase

With the presidential elections over, the last thing we want to do right now is vote. However, by simply voting for your favorite flavor you will automatically be entered to win a year’s supply of the winning flavor.

To enter, text the number of your favorite flavor to 95323, or visit www.amazinggrass.com/vote and select your favorite flavor.

Enjoy your greens everyday with Amazing Grass Green Superfood.

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

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.

Kate Spade Cosmetic Bag – Garance Dore Davie

Tried & Tested: Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Eye Bright

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On a quick trip to Nordstrom-Fashion Island, I came across a lovely associate at the Laura Mercier counter, Christina. She was a wealth of knowledge, introducing me to new and old Laura Mercier items. She is also a makeup artist, introducing me to new and old tricks she uses on clients and brides. Here is one she shared with me.

Laura Mercier Eye Basics is a cream-based primer that camouflages eye imperfections and enhances the durability of eye makeup. Eye Basics are available in seven skin tone shades and one unique pale blue shade called Eye Bright.

Eye Bright is a universal shade that can be used on it’s own or mixed with other Eye Basics to instantly brighten the eye area. The creme evaporates to a dry finish, and leaves behind long-lasting, semi-matte color. Water-resistant and crease-proof, it corrects imperfections and discoloration on the lid.

Formulated with soothing botanicals, vitamins and antioxidants, Eye Bright offers anti-inflammatory and healing benefits, great for those with puffy lids and tired eyes.

Blend Eye Bright on the eyelid from lash line to crease. As the product smoothes over redness, veining and other imperfections, you will notice the whites of the eyes are instantly brighter and more awake. Add shadow over top or just enjoy the brightening effect on its own.

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.

Drink Your Vitamins: Vital Earth Minerals

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The best vitamin for you is the vitamin that you will take every single day on a consistent basis. Weather in tablet or liquid form, it really does not matter which brand or type is the best – if you are not taking them.

I am a big believer of drinking my vitamins. I find I am much more consistent with a daily regime when my vitamins are in liquid form. Also, liquid vitamins are more effective because they can be assimilated immediately into the blood stream. The liquid form can also be three to five times more concentrated than vitamin pills. This more concentrated form can lead to higher therapeutic benefits and a healthier outcome.

My favorite liquid vitamins and minerals are Vital Earth Minerals. The three major advantages to all Vital Earth liquid products are high potency ingredients, 98% absorption (due to liquid form) and the addition of a unique component – Fulvic Minerals.

Fulvic, the “miracle molecule,” is rapidly becoming one of the key elements in many health and scientific breakthroughs of the 21st century. Fulvic Minerals have occurred naturally in organic plants and soils since the beginning of man-kind. It is created by microbial activity at the roots of plants. Its function is to dissolve and convert the metallic and clay based mineral molecules that are in soils into a form that is usable by plants animals and people. Once the minerals are dissolved, plants uptake, through their root system, the powerful fulvic substance that is loaded with dissolved minerals and trace elements.

Benefits of Fulvic Minerals:

• Makes all nutrients more absorbable which means you get greater benefit from all your nutrients – whatever the source.
• Transports nutrients right into the cells.
• Increases absorption of oxygen and decreases acidity.
• Changes the pattern of metabolism of carbohydrates.
• Helps rebuild and stimulate the immune system.
• Extends the time nutrients remain active.
• Increases energy.
• Is a powerful de-toxer.
• Is the most powerful natural free-radical and antioxidant known to science at this time.

Realizing that Fulvic enhances all the nutrients it comes in contact with, Vital-Earth uses it as the base for all their products.

The Super-Multi is a high-potency formula packed with a combination of vitamins, amino acids, anti-oxidants with a fulvic mineral base. Just one capful per day provides the body with over 100 nutrients. It has a passion fruit flavor that tastes great and is easy to take.

The Fulvic Mineral Complex contains the highest concentration of fulvic found on the retail market. It should be added to almost everyone’s supplement regime, especially if you are facing a health challenge, are recreational athletes (sweating minerals out of the body) or want to take extra preventive measures. It has absolutely no taste and a balanced alkaline pH of 7.0 to 7.8.

Vital-Earth has a wonderful selection of liquid vitamins and minerals. They are of the highest quality and potency. At the end of the day, it is still a matter of, hand-to-mouth, the act of taking a vitamin every day. If you are like me and tend to get lazy with capsule-form vitamins, try a liquid form – I guarantee you will stay consistent.

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.

Bikini-Ready & Healthy: Vega One

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Start your day off right with Vega One. This all-in-one nutritional shake provides the body with everything it needs to support a healthy and active lifestyle. Free from preservatives, added sugar, artificial flavors or colors, Vega One is dairy, gluten and soy free.

One serving of Vega One contains all this:

• 15g of protein (plant-based protein) / equivalent to eating 2.7 eggs.

• 1 billion CFU dairy-free probiotics / same as eating 100g of yogurt.

• 1.5g Omega 3 / providing the same per serving as 6 oz of wild salmon.

• 6g of fiber / equivalent to eating 3.2 slices of whole wheat bread.

• 3 servings of greens / same as three servings of nutrient-rich vegetables.

• 2.7 cups of antioxidants / equivalent to eating 2.7 cups of blueberries.

Additionally, one serving of Vega One delivers half of your daily intake of vital vitamins and minerals, and 1000mg of maca (rich in amino acids) and 500mg of chlorella (helps immune function).

With summer on the horizon, Vega One shakes are a great way to get bikini-ready. They are great for on-the-go meal replacements and will provide energy, metabolize fats, proteins and carbohydrates and facilitate in proper muscle function and repair. Also, daily protein shakes can help to provide a lasting feeling of fullness and limit total calorie consumption, resulting in weight-loss.

In my experience, it is quite difficult to find a protein/nutritional powder that is low in sugar and low glycemic level (measure of the effects of food on blood sugar levels). Vega One is sweetened with stevia extract and has no sugar, maltodextrin or sugar-derivitives added. On the Glycemic index it is impressively low at 19.2 – compared to popular brands that are between 30 and 45.

Available in Berry, Chocolate, Vanilla Chai (my favorite) and Natural, Vega One tastes great simply shaken with water or blended with ice. Or add a non-dairy beverage of your choice (favorite: almond milk), and all the veggies and fruits you can handle for a healthy, delicious and nutritious meal.

Favorite Shake Recipe:

• 1 serving Vega One

• 6 large strawberries

• 1 sliced banana

• 1 cup blueberries

• 2-4 kale leaves

• 1/2 cup almond milk

• 1/2 cup water

• ice

Blend & Go!

Hydration Help: Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

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Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado is a rich eye cream that nourishes and hydrates. More than just an eye cream, it truly is a treatment for the eyes.

The light green cream has a thick consistency that mimics fresh avocados. It plumps the under eye area with an intense concentration of actives; Beta Carotene, a powerful antioxidant, Shea Butter restores hydration and keeps skin protected, and Avocado Oil moisturizes and infuses skin with amino acids, vitamins, and potassium.

When applied, the composition of the rich cream magically changes to a water-soluable texture. The delicate eye area immediately drinks this up, providing a burst of hydration. Tested under Ophthalmologists, the concentrated formula will not irritate or migrate into the eyes. No trace of film or residue is left on the skin that sometimes interfere with makeup or concealer application.

Treat your eyes to a burst of moisture with Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. (Don’t forget about Kiehl’s more than generous sample gifting.)

Silicone Synopsis: Makeup Primers

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Face primers are a great way to smooth, prep and perfect the skin before applying foundation. If you have acne scars, fine lines or large pores, a makeup primer can spackle those spaces for an even coverage. However, some people can be allergic or sensitive to the main ingredient found in most makeup primers, silicone.

Silicone is a chemically derived product that sits on top of the skin to protect and keep moisture in. Any product used with that “slippery/silky” feel to it, more than likely contains some kind of silicone. To identify silicone in a product, look for Dimethicone or Methicone in the ingredient list. The general rule of thumb is that anything ending in “cone” is likely to be silicone. Opinions however, are divided as to whether silicone is indeed good or bad for the skin.

Unless you have a sensitivity to silicone and your skin reacts with break-outs or irritation, it seems quite harmless. Silicone is used in almost every product we use on the body from haircare to skincare. To immediately confirm sensitivity to silicone, notice if you breakout on your back from the hair conditioners used. Silicone is abundant in these products and can be the culprit for reoccurring back acne.

Currently, I have two favorite face primers, one silicone-based, one silicone-free. The main activities I look for in a primer are: skincare properties (I do not believe in adding another step to my daily routine – unless it is good for the skin), ability to smooth the skin and longevity.

Hourglass – Veil Mineral Primer SPF 15: This is a wonderful silicone-based primer. It applies effortlessly, smooths the skin, increases the longevity of my face makeup and gives the skin a subtly glow. It contains anti-aging benefits and restores moisture to dehydrated skin. I use this primer for “special occasions” – mostly when I am wearing a full face of makeup. I have found that mixing a small amount of this primer with your foundation produces a flawless, airbrushed-look.

Fresh – Rose Freshface Primer: This is the first silicone-free primer I have tried and now can’t live without. I use this primer on a daily basis and sometimes as my primary moisturizer. Packed with rosewater and cucumber extracts, this lightweight lotion immedietly soothes redness and evens out my skintone. It contains vitamins and botanicals that are beneficial to the skin and smells like a bouquet of roses.

I do notice a difference between the two products, in terms of skin smoothing. Silicone is currently the best ingredient for reducing the appearance of fine lines and pores. This is why the majority of  makeup primers on the market contain them. However, there are many silicone-free products on the market and I assume many more will emerge in the future.

Simple Sponge: Konjac Sponge

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Konjac Sponge

Konjac is a natural food source that has been used in Japanese cuisine for over 1500 years. Ninety seven percent of Konjac is water and three percent is a dietary fiber. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the Japanese have been using Konjac sponges as beauty treatments for centuries.

The unique net like structure of the Konjac sponge, gently massages and stimulates blood flow and new growth of skin cells.  A naturally moisture-rich plant fibre in the sponge balances the acidity of the skin and leaves it extremely clean and refreshed with no need for additional cleansers or soap.

Available in diferent ranges, according to skin type, the Konjac sponge can be infused with clays and charcoal for added benefits. Pink clay has been used for tired, devitalized skin, green clay for normal to oily skin and red clay for dry and sensitive skin. Also, available in bamboo charcoal for very oily or acne-prone skin.

To use, gently massage sponge over the face and body in a circular motion. A cleansing solution can be added, but is not necessary. If added, the smallest amount is needed as the sponge will create an immense lather. Splash with warm water to reveal squeaky clean and refreshed skin.

Each sponge lasts for around one to three months and can be found at any health-food stores. Can be used on the most delicate, sensitive skin and is even recommended for newborn babies. The Konjac sponge is simple yet effective and works on every skintype.

French Favorite: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè

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Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè is a versatile moisturizer found in almost every makeup artist’s bag-of-tricks. This cult favorite is used not only to moisturize the skin but as a makeup primer and remover.

Initially found only in parisian pharmacies, Embryolisse is now available stateside. The French skincare  brand was formulated by physicians with the philosophy to create products with the fewest ingredients possible, to avoid sensitizing the skin.

Also known as the 24-hour miracle cream, this luxurious moisturizer is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins. It calms, plumps, soothes and softens the skin creating a smooth canvas. Suitable for all skin types, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè locks in moisture all day.

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.