Category: skin-care

Dr. Hauschka Clarifying Toner

Some beauty rules and made to be broken. So I learned when I picked up the Dr. Hauschka Clarifying Toner (for oily or blemished skin) rather than the Facial Toner (for my drier, more sensitive skin). I realized my mistake after a couple of uses, but frankly, I had already falling in love with this toner. I am not someone who insists on this cleansing step, but I love that it balances the skin and gets off all the makeup remnants.

The Clarifying Toner balances and soothes with anthyllis, calendula, nasturtium, echinacea, witch hazel and daisy extracts. It minimizes the appearance of pores and reduces redness without any irritation at all. It also makes a great aftershave for your man. Bonus: my blackheads around my nose have cleared up significantly. So, I guess my hasty grab at Whole Foods ended happily!

Natura Bisse NB Ceutical Tolerance Enzyme Peel

I frequently recommend glycolic or lactic acid to readers who want an exfolating treatment, but sometimes even gentiler lactic acid can be too much for the most sensitive of skin. So, I’ve been on the hunt for something results-oriented but that still didn’t irritate. Cue NB Tolerance Enzyme Peel. I did not experience even one tingle and my skin was left with zero redness.  Talk about fostering some serious radiance! And all while remaining exceptionally effective gentle.

I almost hate to use the word “peel” when discussing this product because it sounds so extreme. But does precisely that: “a non-aggressive (granule-free) micro-exfoliation of the most damaged layers of the skin”. The formula is hypoallergenic, alcohol and paraben-free. Enzymes remove impurities and dead skin that can lead to dullness. The formula includes:

  • prickly pear (opuntia ficus)
  • papaya (carica papaya)
  • botanical extract of chamomile that soothes, decongests, and maintains the skin’s natural pH balance
  • sugar extract from bio-fermented Zea Mays

The highlight of using this product probably was the process of massaging until texture is “modified”. I didn’t quite know what this meant before using, but as I was massaging the product info my face – probably after a minute or two – there was suddenly a liquified state that had more slip. After the transformation, the gel-like mask was easy to rinse/wipe away.

Natura Bisse is a somewhat new line to me. After the Ceutical Tolerance Enzyme Peel, I am anxious to try more of the natural skin-care line. Founders, Ricardo Fisas and wife, Maria Gloria Vergas, have been dedicated with luxury treatments featuring natural free-form amino acids for over 30 years.

Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution GIVEAWAY!


My loyal readers all know about my persistant war I am waging against brown spots. I use a prescription to some success but was thrilled to give Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution a try as an alternative. I have seen a dramatic improvement in just the couple of weeks I have used Clearly Corrective.

The Clearly Corrective is designed to address the appearances of dark spots, discolorations, acne scarring and uneven skin with the ingredient Activated C. Kiehl’s is the first to bring this ingredient to the US market. So how does this newcomer work? Activated C slows down the production and transfer of melanin, and is proven to have an anti-cluster effect on existing spots and imperfections, breaking them apart before they form. So not only does it improve dark spots but prevents more from showing up. So plan on using this everywhere (after cleansing and before moisturizer), not only where the spots currently exist.

Activated C is photo-stable and 100% active on contact (no need for any carrier molecule to help the ingredient work on skin). And it is not made with optical diffusers or pearls to mask discolorations or dark spots (hence clear formula in a clear bottle). The serum is very light weight and absorbs quickly. The very small molecular size allows Activated C penetrates deeper and faster into the skin. Don’t expect a slippery or silicon feel. Because it is a clear, lightweight serum, all skin types can use this year round. This didn’t irritate my sensitive skin in the least.

So, you know it works for me. How about those clinical tests:

  • In as little as 2 weeks, 55% of women clinically demonstrated a significant reduction in dark spot intensity.
  • In 4 weeks, 69% of women clinically demonstrated a continued reduction in dark spots intensity and 73% of women showed a significant reduction in acne scarring. Reduction in other skin discolorations was clinically evident among 69% of women.
  • In 8 weeks, 87% of women clinically demonstrated more uniform skin tone to deliver breakthrough clarity.

So, when I find something I LOVE, I want to share it with my readers. Here is your chance to win a full sized bottle. And this time around, anyone can enter!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cle de Peau Beaute UV Protection Cream SPF50

If you aren’t a SPF fanatic, I highly recommend you become one. It is the absolute only way to prevent aging and preserve even skin tone. I don’t care if you are in your early 20s or late 80s – wear it…. everyday.

There are plenty of options out there but my favorites are Aveeno Active Naturals Continous Protection Sunblock Face Lotion, SPF 100 from the drugstore and SkinCeuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF 30. But for now, I am completely hooked on the luxurious Cle de Peau Beaute UV Protection Cream SPF50. It is a pretty penny, but goes far beyond just sun block.

I love finding a luxury product that can live up to its price point. Beyond superpowered sun protection, the workhorse ingredients improve the look of my skin even before I put on makeup.

  • Hybiscus Extract from Africa that can repair damaged cells
  • Powerful Triple Antioxidant including Thiotaurin, Chestnut Rose, and Ginko Leaf Extract
  • Thyme and Turmeric Extracts prevent cell damage and wrinkles
  • Vitamin C to brighten
  • Natural Rose and Rare Orchid with grapefruit, mandarin and peach for a yummy scent

This formula is super absorbant and silky. I love the way my makeup glides over the cream. I can actually say I look forward to the SPF step in my morning skincare routine.

Need an excuse? Tomorrow is the first day of Neiman Marcus Beauty Event! With a cosmetics or fragrance purchase of $100 or more, you receive a free tote loaded with beauty samples. I’ve got my eye on the pink version.

RéVive Moisturizing Renewal Cream Supreme

I was already hooked on the uber-popular RéVive Moisture Renewal Cream, but was thrilled when I heard the buzz that they were developing a more hydrating formula. Dry skin sufferers, get excited. This stuff needs to be on your list.

RéVive was founded by plastic surgeon, Dr. Gregory Bays Brown. I am instantly intrigued when a physician plays a part in developing a product because I believe a doctor’s mentality invites more proven results. RéVive is known for their proprietary RES Technology. The patented ingredients help increase the production of healthy looking skin cells, restoring and repairing damaged skin. Oh, and there is that little bit about it winning a Nobel-prize.

What makes this different from all the other rich hydrators out there is Glycolic Acid, which gently exfoliates, retexturizes and renews skin. After weeks of diligent use, my skin appears clear and even. Dry flakes have made a quick departure. And I do believe it brings an additional glow.

The moisturizing agents in RéVive Moisturizing Renewal Cream Supreme include: Glycoshingolipids, Sodium Hyaluronate, Shea Butter, Panthenol, and Sunflower Seed Oil.

A side note to retinol users: glycolic acid does not play nice with Retin-A or other retinol containing products. Also, avoid your Vitamin C goodies. I didn’t know this while testing, so I can assure you nothing horrible will happen to you if you slip up. But it isn’t advised.

Kate Somerville Moisturizer – Which to Choose?

 

No secret that I adore Kate Somerville’s skin care line. One or more of her products often come up when I am asked for recommendations, particularly for hydration. I love the way Kate packages her moisturizers. They have an internal pump that prevents contamination and allows you to get every last drop. And results are quickly revealed.

With her range of options, sometimes picking the right type of moisturizer can get confusing. But the team over at Kate Somerville recently sent out this chart. And it is so helpful. I use both the Cyto Cell Dermal Engergizing Treatment and the Goat Milk Cream. But one (or more) of these five varieties are certain to be a match for your type.

Neiman Marucs is currently having a gift with any Kate Somerville purchase: a deluxe sample of HydraKate Line Release Face Serum. Plus, order online through Sunday, Feb. 5 and receive Free Vosges toffee & blank greeting card with your regular-priced purchase of $200 or more with the code NMLOVE.

Some of my other Kate Somerville favorites: