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.

Size Matters by Essie

Size Matters by Essie is that perfect mix of vampy and classy. I love the blue undertones that make this a real blood-red. At first, I wasn’t quite to sure about the name of this polish. But today, I did walk around with a bit of swagger. So maybe size does matter after all.

Essie continues to be high quality polish with staying power and easy application. Size Matters was part of the Essie Winter 2011, so if you fancy a bottle, pick one up here now.

Stephanie Johnson Traveler

When it comes to makeup bags, there is absolutely a gold standard. And that gold standard is the Stephanie Johnson Traveler. This tidy case always works perfectly to store and access makeup easily while I am on the road. Especially important are the two snap-out mesh pouches that allow me to organize but also spread out in those luxurious hotel bathrooms (okay, they usually aren’t luxurious, but I can dream, right?).

Stephanie Johnson has has a long passion for printed fabrics and her collection is full with unique, travel inspired designs and colors. I chose Cannes with gold and ivory but I also love the palm beach turquoise. She launched her company in 2000 and quickly became a cult favorite with her compartmentalized design and chic details (such as zipper pulls made with Turkish silk knots). This is an investment piece you can build upon to make a collection as your travels pile up.

Laura Mercier Baked Eye Color Palette

The Laura Mercier Baked Eye Color Palette is a great alternative for those who like to use shadow both wet and dry. When you use them dry, they achieve a neutral wash of color. But when you use them wet, they become vibrant and playful. The included, double-ended brush includes a curved Allover Eye Color Brush (used for dry application) and more pointed Creme Eye Color Brush (used to achieve a more dramatic, wet application).

While this was part of the holiday collection, the soft colors like lilac and pink petal are perfect for a spring look. They do have some glitter to them.

  • Sienna (coffee brown)
  • Terracotta (reddish copper)
  • Ballet Pink (very pale fleshy pink)
  • Pink Petal (baby pink)
  • Lilac (pale lavender)

These aren’t super creamy shadows so if you have a heavy hand and use them dry, watch out for some glitter fall out. This doesn’t bother me as I prefer a light wash of shadow – I think the palette was designed for this type of use. Austin has had a strange winter weather (well into the 70s this week). So I have been using Pink Petal and Lilac alone as a wash all over my lid in honor of the early spring. This palette has also come in handy to tote around in my purse for a quick touch up.

I can’t believe I dropped the ball on reviewing this palette over the holiday season. But on the plus side, it is now on sale for $36 at lauramercier.com.

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:

Arcona Berry Fruit Bar

I know some people who have an issue with bar cleanser, but I am here to tell you why bar cleansers (especially this one) are fabulous. Arcona Berry Fruit Bar comes in the handy tub with a screw top. But, when I am not travelling, I leave it open because this stuff smells so darn good. When I first open the bar, I can stand it up sideways so the scent really fills the room.

Because this isn’t a liquid, instant space is freed up in that pesky, TSA-approved, plastic bag. And no need to fret about cleanser spills and accidents all over your well selected outfits.

Everything has been rough on my sensitive and dry skin this winter. This cleanser satisfies my need for something foamy but not harsh. The berry is really soothing – could be just the smell but it makes me feel better either way. Berries are high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. The white tea and vitamin E helps calm down skin irritation. I haven’t been using my Clarisonic with this, but I tried it out on my arm and they play together like champions.