It is that time of year – definitely my favorite online shopping time of the year! It is friends and family at Shopbop – where I pick up most of my work (and play) clothes. Starting today at 7AM ET, use code FAMILY25 to get 25% off storewide. Offer lasts through October 16th. Here are some of my favorite picks:
I drank the Clarisonic kool-aid years ago and the devices have been a part of my routine ever since. I’ve used the Plus, Mia and Pedi, all with stellar results. But regular readers here know my biggest beef is hyper-pigmentation and a general lack of radiance. So the newest Clarisonic really had me pumped. After releasing earlier this year, I finally got my paws on the newest system and I can say I am a total convert and this is my top choice from the Clarisonic family.
Sonic Radiance comes with a device and brightening formulas just in the nick of time to erase our summer skin sins and achieving a winter glow. The system includes the newest Aria – one I hadn’t tried. While I can’t tell a huge difference, I like the technologically-advanced charger and lighter weight.
The brush head is new as well – a Radiance Brush Head – full of dense but soft filaments that doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. Note: remember not to push the brush against the skin but allow it to lightly touch skin, loosening debris and preventing redness. The pearl pink is a little less shocking than the traditional pink Plus model and it is feminine without being over the top.
I’ve always enjoyed the cleansers that come with the Clarisonic devices but I really love the included products in this version including a morning cleanser, a nighttime peel wash, and a brightening serum (Clarisonic’s first-ever leave-on treatment.) All three products and the device work together to improve acne spots, blotchiness and sun damage. I’ve been using the products and device day and night for two weeks and see imrpovement, particularly with darkness on my cheeks.
The cleansers are foamy and work well against the residue of the day. I do like removing makeup beforehand with a wipe – my favorite these days is this one. That way, makeup doesn’t transfer to the brush head and the products can really work to improve the look of skin.
The Skin Illuminating Cleanser is designed for the AM and gently cleanses and exfoliates skin. The Skin Renewing Peel Wash, my favorite, is creamier and foamier designed for use at night. Then the real gem: the new Brightening Activator Serum can be used morning and night. The combo of treatments allows for potent action and visible results but while still nourishing skin.
Kit includes: Clarisonic Aria, Universal Voltage Charger, Radiance Brush Head, 6 oz Skin Illuminating Cleanser, 6 oz Sin Renewing Peel Wash, Brightening Activator Serum. Products can be purchased individually as well. Or without the device and just the brush head.
Available at Nordstrom and Sephora
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
A little over a year ago I was introduced to Shiseido’s foundations. It was the beginning of a love-affair. I love the weightless nature and considerable amount of coverage. Add in the fact that the foundations look natural and luminous and you can understand why I love Shiseido Sheer & Perfect Foundation.
The newest foundation from Shiseido, Shiseido Future Solution LX Total Radiance Foundation, is a slightly heavier version that actually comes in a tub. It was designed as part of the Future Solution LX skincare which recently hit shelves – although I haven’t yet had the chance to try it.
I’m one to be drawn towards luminous finishes, so this radiant foundation is my perfect texture. The formula adds vibrance and lifting making it well-suited for more mature skin. And bonus points for the SPF 20 that is plenty of protection during office days in the winter months.
I like scooping out a dime size and using the beauty blender sponge to apply. I also have been mixing it with this NARS luminator for an uber-radiant finish. I skip the powder and embrace a “lit within” look.
Available at Saks and made in USA.
And on a fashion note: Happy Columbus Day Weekend, my little shoppers! For those of us who have to work Monday or those of you who will be online shopping from the comfort of your bed… some sales for you to peruse this Columbus Day Weekend:
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
I feel like I am sounding like a broken record. But this time of year allows for my ultimate indulgence in my favorite, spicy scents like amber. Not only am I wearing a version as a fragrance, but I am also stocking my shower with these cozy scents.
H2O Plus has been a favorite for a while. Their marine-inspired collections are subtly scented and hydrate my dry skin. The Spa Sea Amber Collection is no different. Vanilla and citrus mix well to be both soothing and warm. The formulas actually contain Sea Amber found along the Baltic seashores, upping the nourishing factor.
I’ve been testing out the body care trio: Body Wash, Skin Smoother and Body Lotion. The wash cleanses without tightening skin. And my redness-prone skin is left calm. The Skin Smoother is amazingly hydrating with sweet almond and macadamia oils. And the sea salts exfoliate dry, autumn skin leaving a radiance. Last, the lotion contains H2O Plus’ Hydrating Marine Blend and Cocoa butter that adds moisture but doesn’t leave skin greasy.
My skin has a very subtle scent – it isn’t cloying or overly sweet. To boost the effect, use all three products used together.
Available at Ulta and H2OPlus.com
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
I expected to find loads of praise for the Dr. Jart+ Blackhead Master Patch on the Sephora website. But I, at best, found mixed reviews. Which frankly baffled me. I have been a huge fan of pores strips like those from Biore, so I was stoked to try out the Dr. Jart version. And it was like a luxe, improved version.
I found the dual pack of strips easy to use and not only effective but with substantially noticeable immediate effects. Regular visitors know I have combo-to-dry skin, but I have been experiencing congestion lately around my nose. This is likely because of a heavier moisturizer I have introduced into the rotation in anticipation of drier and colder weather.
What surprised me right off the bat was that the pouch contained two strips. The first is designed to be applied to a wet nose – I used a facial spray to prep the skin. After 10 minutes, I removed the strip to find clean pores and a bunch of satisfying residue on the cloth.
Then I applied the moistened patch which soothed and hydrated my skin. After another 10 minutes, I removed the wet strip and massaged the remaining serum into skin. Then I proceeded with nighttime moisturizer. The serum left my skin radiant and tightened.
So why is this treatment better than the drugstore variety? I found the dry strip removed more debris. And the wet treatment was a welcome additional step. Ingredients like coral powder, sage, and tea tree extract work hard to immediately improve the look of skin.
Not to mention the whole process was so incredibly satisfying. Available at Sephora.
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
Looking for a fall fragrance that is sophisticated and subtle but still cozy and romantic? Don’t miss Byredo Gypsy Water. I have been swooning over the brand since first discovering Byredo here and still cherish the travel size. But this newest addition to my collection is not only full-sized but earthy and sultry – perfect without being over the top.
This Swedish fragrance-maker was inspired by the myths surrounding the Romany lifestyle – something I myself have always been a little fascinated by. Fresh soil, forests and campfires will come to mind. And while I am not a champion outdoors-man, I do love the connotation of crisp fall weather in my scents this time of year.
Top notes include bergamot, lemon, pepper and juniper berries but the last thing I find is anything terribly floral. At first sniff, I get quite a bit of lemon which is delightful first thing in the AM. The incense and pine needles come through next on me. And the finish dries down to the gourmand I love with vanilla and amber.
Some fall and winter scents can be cloying and heavy. This one is light and confident but still cozy and warm. Byredo once again delivers the ultimate in luxury.
Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program. I consult for Neiman Marcus which is affiliated with the Neiman Marcus Group, but as always, opinions are my own.
