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.
I often get asked from skin care beginners: “How do I get started?”. I usually give my speech on retinol and SPF. But now I have found a serum that will understand the unique needs of the user’s skin. And I am can enthusiastically recommend it to just about anyone.
The Clinique Smart Custom-Repair Serum is about as straightforward as you can get. The custom repair works on visible concerns and even damage you can’t see – anything from skin tone, fine lines, hyper-pigmentation and dullness. It detects what needs work on your own particular complexion and works to correct it.
Double supreme bonus for being able to use it day and night. So simply just add to whatever you are doing, before moisturizer/SPF and after cleansing. Suitable for all skin types, tones and ages.
Two pumps covers my entire face and neck. And the fresh spa-like scent gives a luxe feel. The silky finish works fabulously on my dry skin. But at the same time, it isn’t greasy so it is also well-suited for those with oilier skin.
Looking for a place to start? Or want to simplify your routine? Leave it to the purest, simplest of high-end skin care lines: the one and original Clinique.
Note: the Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus is in full swing now through September 21st. I will be doing a full review on the tote gift with purchase this weekend, but this is the right time to stock up!
Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.
I am a longtime fan of this brand inspired by an amazing Japanese ingredient. Learn about how I first fell hard for SK-II and the history of the brand here. Ironically, that was almost exactly two years ago. Since, the SK-II ‘Facial Treatment’ Essence has been a consistent part of my skin care routine.
The newest from the brand might just elevate itself to that status as well. Keep in mind, I am constantly testing and changing what I use for skin care. So only a few select favorites make it into the permanent category.
The new Essential Power Essence is a rich serum powered with Artichoke Extract, Siberian Ginseng Extract and Niacinamide. My dehydrated skin with hyper-pigmentation adores this formulation. The silicone-in-water emulsion is a silky, rich and translucent texture that is quickly absorbed.
While the main advantage advertised is an improvement in the appearance of pores, I find this is actually helping with sun damage and keeping my skin radiant and luminous. I have had it in the rotation for approximately a month, but I remember seeing a difference after just a couple days of use.
It is designed to be applied just after the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. I’ve played around with using it after and before my retinol, alone as a moisturizer and first after washing. I actually prefer it as a first step and use a light moisturizer after letting it absorb for a couple minutes – usually while I brush my teeth. The best part: an amazing scent that gives me just a scootch of a spa experience even in frantic mornings.
It was a little tricky using the dropper at first. Depress the dropper and dip it into the serum and then release. I use a full dropper each application which sounds a little decadent – but trust… you won’t be able to resist. That is if you have dry skin like me. Those with oilier or acne-prone skin might not like the rich and silicone-based formula.
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.
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 Oilis 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 Mudtransports 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).
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.
Is it an oil, serum or moisturizer? Frankly, after three weeks of testing… I am not quite sure it isn’t all three. Chia has been on my mind (I’m striving to incorporate refrigerator oatmeal into my routine). Chia Seeds, a key ingredient of refrigerator oatmeal, are a valuable source of Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for radiant, protected skin. So it makes perfect sense that this might work directly applied on the face.
Because chia has five fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients, it nourishes and heals dry skin. But you don’t have any of that nasty greasiness. With the warmer months, I am all about the glow that hydrated healthy skin breathes. Skin is left vibrant but not shiny and this ranks upon the quickest facial oils when it comes to absorption. Not a facial oil fanatic? Try mixing it with your favorite moisturizer for a hydration boost. Or the real trick is to use a minimal amount over makeup for a dewy glow.
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.
It is no secret that I hold Asian skin care tradition in very high esteem. Some of my favorite products hail from that part of the world. No surprise that I fell head over heels with the geisha-inspired TATCHA. Geishas are known for flawless, beautiful skin. Their beauty secrets are said to be passed down through the generations by word of mouth. So when TATCHA founder, Victoria Tsai, she came across a beauty manuscript from 200 years ago detailing the geisha beauty regime she struck gold.
