Author: Lindsay

Foundation Brushes

Since I largely use tinted moisturizer, I really should call these “moisturizer brushes” but either way, they are my favorite tool for blending any color on my face.  Over the years, I have tried great (and not so great) brushes and most are still in my collection – a testimony to how long these tools will last.

Armani Beauty Designer Foundation Brush

The fibers are shorter than other foundation brushes, which gives great control but can hinder blending.  I especially like the sharper end to get into the areas around my nose, under eyes and chin. The brush contains a blend of fibers which is typical for foundation brushes. The effect of this brush is a heavier coverage with ability to add precision. Overall this is a great brush that will last a long time. ($51)

Bobbi Brown Foundation Brush

The longer brush by Bobbi Brown won’t provide precise lines, but blends tinted moisturizer flawlessly.  The color almost buffs into the skin achieving Bobbi Brown’s signature “your own skin” look.  It also gives foundation a more moderate coverage.  I am sure the lighter bristles on the end have another purpose, but it provides encouragement for frequently cleaning because pigment is readily visible. ($35)

As a fan of foundation brushes, I think these two offer the best of what is out there.  If you are one who favors a heavier coverage, Armani is the way to go.  For those who like a tinted look, try Bobbi Brown.

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit

Darn genetics: I have just a touch of darkness under my eyes.  The new Creamy Concealer Kit was designed just for this problem so I had to give it a whirl.  The concealer is one of the creamier formulations I have tried, and it works well on my normal-to-dry skin.  I have tried application with both a brush and my finger and I definitely recommend the precision of a brush.  While there isn’t a lot of luminosity to the pigment, the color is very natural.  The setting powder gives powerhouse stay-ability. The formula did slightly settle into fine lines, but over all, the long-lasting wear makes it a winner. ($32)

Renée Rouleau Night Time Spot Lotion

Seems like such an insult to get acne when you are in your twenties and thirties.   I never had problem skin when I was a teenager, so I thought I was home free… think again! I have had stubborn breakouts on my chin and forehead since I was in my early twenties.  Never more than one at a time, but very annoying nonetheless.  I would just let the pimple heal itself over 5-7 days (if I could resist picking), until…. i found this.  I already admired Renée Rouleau, a fellow Texan, a great deal and wasn’t hesitant to try one of her products.  With just two nights of using this, my blemish is well on the way to healing.  The formula contains camphor-drying agent, Sulfur-antiseptic/anti-bacterial and Zinc Oxide-antiseptic/anti-bacterial. Definitely worth a couple of nights with a white dot covering that nasty zit. ($27.50)



KateSommerville in store spa treatment

Today, at my local Neiman Marcus, I was treated to a facial from the Kate Sommerville counter.  I was pleasantly surprised to find out our little Neimans in Austin had two spa rooms, so my facial was complete with a spa-like experience.  Ciena first used Clinic-to-Go Resurfacing Peel Pads, A professional-strength treatment peel designed to be used twice a week.  Although it contained Lactic Acid, my sensitive skin had no problem with the treatment.  With a months use, you gain the equivalent of full-strength peel ($48)

The other highlight was the DermalQuench, a signature Kate Somerville treatment. The skin is drenched in a hyaluronic serum and vitamins. Oxygen is then applied as the serum soaks into cells.  This was a relaxing process and the effects were noticeably visible after my facial.

She also used the CytoCell Dermal Energizing Treatment, which provides a smoother and more youthful appearance (sign me up!) through the ingredient Peptide P-199 stimulates collagen production. ($150)

 

 

 

Bare Escentuals Buxom® Lash Mascara

Mascara with long-lasting wear, no flakes and feathery fullness. What is rare about this mascara is that it delivers volume with literally no clumps. The word that came to mind as I checked the wear throughout the day was “fluffy”. The mascara delivers a really wearable look but probably isn’t the best for dramatic lashes. The shape of the brush made it slightly more difficult to get to the lashes in the corner and my lower lashes, but the lasting formula makes up for it.  The mascara also contains vitamins and antioxidants, so I believe there could be long-term benefits. ($18)

 

CHANEL Vitalumière Aqua Foundation

Second skin, easy application and ultra-fine are its buzz words. I think it lives up to the hype. After applying a thin coat, my face looked very fresh, even and brighter. An added bonus is that the formula contains mineral sunscreen, which my dermatologist recommends.  I really didn’t notice any fragrance which is what I generally prefer for foundation.  There is no moisturizing qualities and the finish is basically matte, so I would recommend a good moisturizer before application. If you are after a more dewy look, this probably isn’t for you.