Author: Lindsay

Chantecaille Flower Harmonizing Cream

Trying a new tool to treat my stressed skin, prone to redness. While I am not as dry as I was this winter, I have learned I tend to underestimate how hydrated my skin is. And a boost in collagen production can’t hurt either (provided by essential oils, seaweed, vitamins and flowers). Even though edelweiss flower is a natural UVA/UVB protection, I still encourage everyone to use a physical sunblock with zinc and titanium oxide. This is actually more a lotion than a cream in consistency so don’t expect a heavy layer of moisture, but a couple of layers make for soft and supple, hydrated skin. And after a couple evenings of use, I do think the redness in my face has diminished.

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

You know those long days when, around 3PM, you are in desperate need for a refresh? A portable foundation that I treat more like concealer is a handy solution. What I love about this product is its compact packaging and adjustable coverage. But this complexion-fixer requires a well moisturized canvas. If you are on the dry side, like me, make sure your skin is very well hydrated or the application will come off flaky. I also started by using a foundation brush with this stick, but I actually prefer using my fingers to spot apply where I need to eliminate redness or cover a blemish.

Chantecaille Pure Rosewater

Those Evian spray bottles from the 1980’s remind me of my grandmother. And while I am fond of the memories, I never understood what that spray did. But with my 30s came, drier and more sensitive skin and have started paying attention to anything soothing and anti-aging. I have found this line is really well suited to sensitive skin so I was happy to give this rosewater a shot. A bonus: rosewater has been proven to improve skin clarity (nothing worse than an adult pimple). I am not sure how I feel about the pedigree of the roses – wouldn’t regular roses do? The formula uses the purest petals from roses in the hills of Grasse, France during the month of May. I think the pretty packaging adds to the hefty price tag. But this spray really is refreshing. It instantly relieves angry skin and for adult acne, anything is worth a shot. ($56)

CND Shellac

Manicures have taken on a new, longer life. 14 days ago, I got my first Shellac manicure and couldn’t have been more pleased. My cheery red nails lasted a full two weeks with absolutely zero chips. Really, the only reason I took the polish off, was because my nails had grown out. Your nail beds are not damaged at all with the application and it only takes about 5 minutes to remove the polish. The system contains a Base Coat, Color Coat and Top Coat. After each layer is exposed to a UV Lamp, you can leave the salon with totally dry nails. They even do the massage after the polish! That is how absolutely dry they are. Right now the shades are varied but mostly traditional colors. I started with red, but thinking a vibrant pink to celebrate spring next.

Sulwhasoo Skin Clarifying Mask

Not much is more irresistible than a peel-off mask. Made by a Korean company, this mask is designed to purify and clarify with traditional herbs and honey. Even though it is peel off, the honey really hydrates my skin, not to mention gives a very healthy clean feel. The mask is also designed to remove the skin of dead skin cells – helpful when you are using a retinoid. I try to use this on Sunday evenings, applying to a cleansed face. It is usually dry and ready to peel off in 20 minutes. Makes your skin look good and it is really fun! ($39)

Kate Somerville® ‘ExfoliKate®’ Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

I am still on a high from my Kate Somerville® facial I had this weekend at Neiman Marcus. All the wonderful products meritted another product mention. This exfoliating treatment has achieved much acclaim, but I was afraid to try a formula that has beads. I introduced myself to the treatment with the gentle formula, which I loved. And was left with no fears trying the stronger version after I understood Kate Somerville wasn’t about to assault me with harsh granules. The fruit enzymes clarify skin by removing dead cells and eliminating bacteria (and smells fabulous). The treatment is helpful with blackheads, acne and dull skin. I can definitely see what the fuss is about. I will treasure my samples and then promptly go buy a tube. ($85)