Tag: Skin Care

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.

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.

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).

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.

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“Summer-ize” Your Makeup Routine On FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

There are so many factors that play into changing up our makeup routine as the months warm up. Depending on where you live, humidity can play a huge factor. And to an even greater degree, lifestyle changes. We spend our summer evenings wearing breezy maxi dresses and a messy bun. This calls for a tone down in makeup (with some glowy and bronzy wattage).

Personally, I like switching to a more subtle eye and using a few more liquid formulations. My favorite of these liquid gems actually come from a brand new line from Perricone MD that I am wild about. Launched just this month, Perricone MD No Makeup Skincare restores skin’s health, protects from environmental factors and uses pigments to enhance facial architecture. This makeup doesn’t cake on coverage but adds radiance. My favorite of the bunch is the new No Foundation Foundation Serum which just subtly adds pigment with a suede finish and nourishing formula. No Mascara Mascara contains anti-aging lash treatment. And No Lipstick Lipstick not only smells amazing but adds a natural color with SPF 15.

If you are anything like me, you’ll log some serious pool time (with lots of SPF of course). Some days, we proceed immediately to a BBQ dinner or casual Mexican fare straight from the pool. To add just a bit of glam, I love the newest of lip formulas – Lip Crayons. Boots No. 7 Lip Crayons not only offer a budget price point but also a conditioning shine. I love Berry to compliment post-pool sun-kissed tan.

I can’t really think of a summer color collection that does glowy bronze better than NARS. A new launch coupled with a newly discovered classic is now a permanent staple in my rotation. First, I admit to being a Laguna devotee. But I was gently coaxed to try the slightly slightly deeper and more golden Casino and I am smitten. There is something about the formula that is so authentically bronzed that I can quickly sweep over my cheekbones, temples and nose and hit the road. And talk about a launch with a splash from their summer ‘Adult Swim’ collection: Hot Sand Illuminator is a limited edition peach champagne liquid that provides a shimmery blush. I also love to use it on brow bones and if you are feeling indulgent, add a dab to your decolletage.

Who said dark polish is only for cooler months. This summer, change things up with inky digits but swap out vampy blacks and browns for navys like Essie’s After School Boy Blazer or a deep purple like Sally Hansen Vanity Flare. If you are a diehard light shade buff, opt for a classic white (my current choice is Deborah Lippmann in Amazing Grace).

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Clear Skin Detox Diet

I’ve been a big believer in beauty from the inside out over the last year and a half. Even more so lately, I’ve been paying more attention to how foods affect the way my skin looks (not to mention the way they make me feel). That’s not to say I am giving up my beloved wine, cheese and bread any time soon. But on yesterday’s trip to Whole Foods, I loaded up on papaya, berries, greens, basil, yogurt and honey. And I have Clear Skin Detox Diet to thank for the inspiration.

This straightforward, well-written book is actually a joy to read. Clear Skin Detox Diet covers nutrition plans, recipes and recommendations of foods for specific skin issues. I was thrilled to get advice for skin ailments like acne, premature aging, eczema, and more. Needless to say, I will be shooting for half an avocado a day from now on. And when that nasty pimple appears… garlic to the rescue with its powerful antibacterial properties. Just alone, author Lauren Talbot’s “Build a Better Salad” page is now one of my kitchen staples.

Also, I have to mention this shopping list was also amazingly influential in changing the way I shop for groceries.

Now for the good news! I have one extra copy to give away to one lucky reader. Enter using the widget below. Open to US readers.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

image via into the gloss