Category: skin-care

Jet Set Favorites from around the Globe on FOX23’s Tulsa Live

Summer is the time for those dream trips, often abroad. Even if we don’t have one planned, we might be daydreaming about being on a beach in Greece or strolling the Parisian avenues. Without leaving our vanities, we can bring the exotic into our lives via beauty. So many of the international beauty staples have withstood the test of time, making them a must-have. This morning on Tulsa Live (formally Great Day Green Country), I shared some of my favorites to transport me to travel hotspots:

I can’t help but start off with my favorite destination, France. And what is more French than Caudalie, a skin care line built upon the benefits of Grape-seed Polyphenols, the most powerful anti-oxidants in the plant world. Caudalie Polyphenol c15 Overnight Detox Oil is one of the newest from the brand and is also made in France. The team has coupled the anti-oxidants with stabilized Vitamin C to block free-radicals. The dry oil soaks in and regenerates skin while you sleep. Plus, the smell will lull you to snoozeville with Carrot, Lavender, and White Sandalwood ($52).

Another dream location I hope to visit one day is the Dead Sea, a natural phenomenon I have always been fascinated with. No wonder I love AHAVA, a collection that utilizes minerals found in the Dead Sea in every single product. AHAVA Natural Dead Sea Mud transports that special mineral-rich mud right to your shower. The mud is harvested from the banks where clay is packed with an ultra-high concentration of minerals that can foster healthy looking skin. Excess oil, dead skin and toxins are whisked away while the mud stimulates circulation and improves skin tone. And calling all athletes and workaholics: this mud treatment can also help with stress and muscle aches. Just dirty up and spread all over your body, leave on for 15 minutes and rinse ($15).

Asia is still on my bucket list (if you don’t count my couple days in the part of Turkey that lies on the continent). My cousin has a passion for Japan and I think it has rubbed off on me. After all, Japan lays claim one of the great skin care cultures. One reason could be the availability of Wakame, a seaweed that grows along the coast of Japan and is often said to be the reason why Japanese women have youthful skin even into old age. H2O Plus Face Oasis CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA +++ contains a wakame compound that offers tons of anti-aging properties including a natural sunscreen and protection against the loss of Hyaluronic Acid. While CC creams generally have heavier coverage in my experience, this version is sheer to medium coverage and can brighten skin without being heavy. Bonus points for the inclusion of chemical free sunscreen ($35). Note: this line flies under the radar but is fabulous for relatively affordable skin care.

And we couldn’t round up this virtual world tour without a couple of stops in Africa. It seems that African ingredients are having somewhat of a moment in the beauty industry. First up is the super-popular Argan Oil from the Argan Tree of Morocco. I know we all have seen it on shelves, but what exactly is Argan Oil? The Berber people of Morocco discovered the culinary, cosmetics and medicinal benefits of Argan Oil. Unroasted Argan Oil is traditionally used as a treatment for skin diseases. In cosmetics, Argan Oil is advocated as moisturizing oil, working against flaky skin as well as nourishing and fortifying the hair. L’Oreal harnessed Argan’s nourishing benefits to heal dull, dry and damaged hair with Oleo Therapy. The Oleo Therapy collection is sulfate-free and contain six flower oils to provide nutrition and hydration to strands ($6.99 – 12.99).

Lastly, let’s head South to South Africa for another oil that has been part of beauty rituals for centuries. Marula fruit fates back as far as 10,000 BC. No wonder since its miracle oil can protect skin in severe climates. Marula Oil is packed with antioxidants and omega-9 fatty acids which can fight free radicals, prevent water loss and improve elasticity. Erno Laszlo Phormula 3-9 Cream is a nutritional supplement that packs a hydration punch and works as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Expect renewed skin and a more youthful appearance. I love this cream after a ski day or a pool afternoon. It even calms my red flush after a run and can be used on the face and body ($265).

// Shop The Post //

map image here

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.

NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device

I am always game to try out skin care devices. But I do admit I approach them with a bit of skepticism (the exception, of course, is my beloved Clarisonic). But I have found another device that I am totally sold on. It all started with this post on Into The Gloss. Designer Cedella Marley shares why she loves NuFace:

“NuFACE … is this little gadget that basically sends currents into your skin. At first I thought it was BS. You have to use it for years and years and years, and it actually lifts the skin. It really does it! I do the eyebrows, around the neckline, the laughing jowls, and the cheekbones.”

The NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device has been in my rotation for a month or so and I can already see how the gentle stimulation can improve appearance. The smaller version is perfect for beginners and I actually love it for travel. The device is clinically tested to improve contour, skin tone and wrinkles just by using 5 minutes a day. And it is FCA-cleared.

Are you in the market for a little lift? We are talking opening eyes, contouring the jawline and lifting eyebrows. Sign me up. The way the NuFACE improves skin is with microcurrent technology, often used in spas and medical offices. Microcurrent has been shown to stimulate ATP production, which drives the creation of key structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin. It can also energize facial muscles just like exercise, amping up the lifted appearance. The low-level current has zero pain and can provide immediate and cumulative effects. After just one treatment, my skin looked more radiant and plump. Microcurrent treatments are often even referred to as a “5 minute facial-lift”.

Using this little gem is easy breezy. Apply a NuFACE primer, included with the device. Follow directions by gliding the NuFACE over jowls, forehead and neck. Each glide is five seconds and each area requires three glides. The device will shut off automatically when your treatment is completed. Also included is a power adapter, manual and one-year warranty.

Founder, Carol Cole, was a pioneer in micro-currents using them beginning in 1985. She is a true beliver in beauty from the inside out, focusing on under and within the skin. In 2005, she launched NuFACE providing an at-home device that delivers micro-currents. The NuFACE has been recognized by top beauty and fashion editors from Vogue, InStyle, Elle, Self, Shape, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, and Redbook magazines. With its FDA clearance, you can’t beat NuFACE for proven at-home skin care treatment for lifting and improved tone – perfect for spa nights or just vegging on the couch!

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Favorite Masks For Radiance

I’m in the midst of another hyper-pigmentation treatment and have been using some pretty hefty stuff to battle the sun damage that has returned with the summer months. While I am loving the results (more on that in a couple weeks), I have noticed that all the strong ingredients can leave my skin a little dull. And there is nothing worst than dull summer skin.

Good thing I had my beauty closet to raid. I’ve been rotating two hydrating and radiance-boosting masks over the past couple of weeks and found two winners – depending on your skin type. The first I like for drier or more mature skin. The second is great for normal to oily skin.

First up, Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Radiance-Boosting Mask is luxe and rich. The gummy texture sounds like a mess but it is surprisingly soothing. Technically a gel, this mask was designed to be used before makeup application. Shhh… don’t tell… I have been using it in the evenings before bed. Auto Pilot Radiance-Boosting Mask smooths skin and adds softness while blurring lines with Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E.

The first thing I notice is this gormound, cozy smell that I can’t quite put my finger on. The gel applies evenly all over the face and doesn’t budge. After 20 minutes, my skin has a velvet soft feel and my skin looks more even and glow-y. While you can tissue this off, I felt a little weighed down and went ahead and rinsed with water. While the product is technically for all skin types, I think those who are looking for a moisture/nourishment boost will be happier with this mask.

For those looking for something a little more “deep” and/or “active”, check out June Jacobs Spa Collection Radiant Refining Brightening Masque. This often overlooked line of skin care uses plants and extracts to revive stressed skin. How’s this for a little fruit cocktail?: bearberry, mulberry, licorice, lemon peel extracts and gigawhite nourishes and clears skin. Meanwhile, lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide rejuvinate. And white, red and green tea extracts, goji berry, pomegranate and grapeseed extracts protect skin from the environment by neutralizing free radicals.

This milky cream goes on smooth and dives deep into skin. I get just a slight tingling but my skin isn’t left looking red. I can’t really detect a strong scent. And skin is immediately left more even and glowing. I apply with my fingers and keep on for around five minutes. Then rinse and pat dry.

New Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing Brush in Neons

Years ago, when the Clarisonic first launched, I purchased a Clarisonic PLUS Face & Body Cleansing in Pink. It has been a trusty friend (and a true asset to my skin care routine). But I was getting a little tired of baby pink – I am not really a girly girl. And the larger size made it difficult to travel with. Plus, I literally never used the body functionality.

In the nick of time, a new Clarisonic arrived in my hot little hands and I love this one even more than the first! Clarisonic Mia has two awesome new shades this summer – the vibrant Electric Pink and limited-edition Electric Blue. This smaller, one-speed edition is exactly what I need in a more compact version. I have the blue shade and its cheerful boldness is perfect in my neutral bathroom.

Those new to Clarisonic: this face brush cleanses the face six times better than hands alone using sonic technology. A little tip for those who found a Clarisonic previously abrasive: make sure you just gently press the head against the surface of your skin. The sonic action will do the work for you. You don’t need to press into the skin hard. The gentle motion is perfect for all skin types and you can use any regular cleanser. I love a foaming variety (I’m currently using mine with this men’s cleanser).

So why is the Clarisonic better than more affordable versions? Those cheaper devices usually spin. The Mia oscillates back and forth at a sonic frequency that produces over 300 movements per second, which gently works with skin’s natural elasticity to extract impurities from skin and pores. Clinical results have shown reduced appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles, and improved skin tone. I know it sounds like a huge investment, but given I have been using mine over the last several years, several time a week, and my skin has never looked better… it is a no brainer. Also, it is a huge hit with men – even my dad is an addict (find the men’s version here).

HUM: Beauty Starts From Within

We know that beauty starts with good health and nutrition. Besides picking up fruits, veggies and healthy protein, we can also use supplements to solve loads of beauty hiccups.

California-based HUM is a cutting edge line that will have skin looking better (not to mention putting a little pep in our step). The entire line of eleven supplements are gluten-free, contain no GMOs, or artificial ingredients and recently hit shelves at Sephora.

“Killer Nails” contains high potency vegan biotin to strengthen both hair and nails. “Here Comes The Sun” provides crucial vitamin D3 that can help improve mood. “Daily Cleanse” is a plant-based formula designed to clear skin and body of toxins that can be vital to those battling acne.

You can design your own HUM Nutrition “cocktail” to make sure you are getting all the goodies to help solve your particular beauty issue or assuage any particular beauty concerns like aging, clearing skin and fighting fatigue.

I’d be remiss to not mention a little fashion PSA side note…. make sure to pick up some goodies at Shopbop‘s latest sale – an extra 25% of all sale items.

June Is Acne Awareness Month on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

One of the most common skin concerns is acne and June happens to be Acne Awareness Month. Just under the wire, I am on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country tomorrow to share my picks for curing the dreaded clogged pores and pimples.

It is hard not to think about acne without bring up the premier acne fighting brand, Proactiv. The newest from the brand is X Out, a one-step Wash-In Treatment that infuses pores with bacteria fighting 8.5% benzoyl peroxide. Smooth beads exfoliate dead skin cells and a complex helps moisturize skin.

You regulars know that I am a huge fan of beauty from the inside out. New to Sephora, Hum Nutrition offers an array of supplements to fight all sorts of skin concerns. Daily Cleanse helps clear skin and the body from toxins. Detoxifying herbs and organic chlorella can help improve your complexion. And it is also gluten-free, contains no GMOs, and is sustainably sourced.

Bioré has long been a blemish fighting favorite brand. The newest trio has been a surprisingly awesome addition to my skin care routine. While I don’t have a ton of acne, these products have helped clear up my clogged pores on my nose that have plagued me since this spring. Bioré Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser is a refreshing and cooling salicylic acid acne treatment that clears skin of dirt and oil. Bioré Blemish Fighting Astringent also contains salicylic acid and tones and clears pores. Are you a scrub fan? Bioré Acne Clearing Scrub really goes after deep dirt and oil for the quickest fix. The minty citrus scrub is gentle enough to use every day and actually can be used to proactively prevent new blemishes.

One of my favorite super-powered skin care lines, SkinCeuticals, offers Blemish + Age Defense designed for those who might not be in the traditional acne prone teen years. By using 2% dioic acid with an alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid, it specifically targets and prevents adult acne. It can help with hyperpigmentation and fine lines as well.

image here