Tag: Skincare

Beauty /

7 Ways to “Flip the Script” on Your Skincare Regimen This Fall

While most of us look forward to the cooler autumn weather, our skin tends to suffer as it retains less moisture because of the drier air, resulting in a dull skin tone, flaking, irritation and dryness. To maintain that beautiful summer glow, it’s important to take preventative measures. One of the best ways to be proactive is to switch up your daily skincare regimen this fall!

 

Warren B. Seiler III, M.D., a board certified cosmetic laser surgeon, the executive director at the American Board of Laser Surgery and medical director at Seiler Skin Cosmetic Laser & Aesthetics Center, has developed seven highly effective ways that you can “flip the script” on your skin care regimen, and better protect your skin during the Autumn cool-down.

 

7 Ways to “Flip the Script” on Your Skincare Regimen This Fall

 

1.       Don’t neglect sunscreen: It’s easy to think you no longer need sunscreen once the summer heat subsides, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. While it is true that our skin does not have as much direct sun exposure, the UV index may still be high and we constantly receive incidental sun exposure – whether it be through our car windows or reflected from the sidewalk when walking. I cannot stress this enough – it is of the utmost importance to wear a medical-grade, broad spectrum sunscreen that contains zinc every day, all year long. Sunscreen is the best anti-aging product on the market, hands-down.

a.       TRY THIS: eltaMD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is my personal go-to sunscreen – it’s a high-quality, medical-grade daily sunscreen that contains pure ingredients, won’t clog the skin and provides the complete protection you need. An alternative option is to use Sunforgettable by Colorescience, a mineral makeup brush with broad spectrum SPF 50 for added sun protection all day long.

2.       Change up your masque: As the weather cools, consider switching from a purifying or clarifying masque to a more hydrating masque. If you are using a clay masque that hardens or cracks when it dries, stop immediately! You’re putting your skin at high risk for dehydration and the associated complications. A hydrating masque contains high levels of moisturizing oils that help to better hydrate the skin and protect it from the cool, dry air.

a.       TRY THIS: One of my favorites for this time of year is SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Masque, which infuses dehydrated and stressed skin with optimal amounts of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to replenish depleted moisture levels.

3.       Add an extra boost of hydration: Remember – drier air equals drier skin! It is crucial that you continue to rehydrate your skin during the drier fall months, and there is no better way to do so than by adding a hydrating serum underneath your moisturizer to help draw moisture further into the skin. If your skin gets particularly dry, you may need to change to a more emollient moisturizer at night to help replenish cellular lipids.

a.       TRY THIS: One of best hydrators on the market is SkinMedica’s HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator. Not only will this product help add additional moisture to your skin, but it will also – within eight weeks – teach your skin cells to produce 50 percent more hyaluronic acid (a powerful moisture-binding ingredient that keeps skin plumped, hydrated and youthful) on their own.

4.       Prevent dry and cracked lips: When it’s cold outside, it doesn’t get much worse than dry, cracked and chapped lips – a common, uncomfortable occurrence for many. Lips are particularly sensitive to environmental changes, and need to be cared for intensively during the fall and winter months. I recommend using a daily lip treatment that contains antioxidants and vitamin E to neutralize free radicals and soothe and heal the lips when they start to become dry or irritated.

a.       TRY THIS: One particularly powerful product is Antioxidant Lip Repair from SkinCeuticals, which not only helps the lips retain more moisture, but also repairs environmental damage to rejuvenate, reshape and replenish lip tissue. I use it every day without fail!

5.       Add a retinol: Many people fear using a retinol during the summer because it heightens the skin’s sensitivity to the sun; however, retinol is one of the primary pillars of an effective anti-aging regimen. Retinols work to prevent the formation of free radicals and increase collagen production, giving you a more youthful look. The truth is that you can use a retinol all year long, as long as you also use a broad-spectrum sunscreen – which you should be wearing anyway! Remember, consistency is the key – once you start, keep using it and your skin will reap the benefits.

a.       TRY THIS: The gold standard of retinol is Revision Retinol Complete, which contains the power of five antioxidants and includes a proprietary blend of botanical extracts that enhance the retinol’s effects.

6.       Fall in love with a new fall product: Hot weather can wreak havoc on our skin, and unfortunately many of us end up suffering from heat-induced skincare laziness. If your regimen took a back seat this summer, fall is the perfect time to give it the special attention it deserves with a brand new product and the best anti-aging cream.

a.       TRY THIS: One of the most impressive new products for fall is Revox™ 7 by Revision Skincare, a new serum that combines seven peptides to stimulate biological activity in the skin, and addresses lines and wrinkles caused by repetitive muscle movement. Four of the peptides are neuromodulator peptides, and relax the muscles to reduce movement on the forehead, between the eyebrows, around the eyes (“crow’s feet”), on the lips and the in nasolabial folds. The three additional peptides help repair deeper lines and wrinkles that are present in the skin at rest. As a bonus, this serum is perfect to pair with Botox® as it helps it work better and faster.  

7.       Hit the reset button: Over time, the biological processes in our skin begin to function less efficiently, resulting in the visible signs of aging. A major source of this “slowdown” is that your skin’s extracellular matrix – a collection of extracellular molecules that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding dermis cells – becomes clogged with damaged and aged proteins. When the extracellular matrix becomes clogged, the skin’s normal regenerative processes no longer perform like they did when you were younger.

a.       TRY THIS: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology™ is a brand new, peptide-rich serum that is backed by the strongest science I have ever seen in a skincare product. Not only does Alastin Restorative Skin Complex clear the extracellular matrix to help your skin’s cells communicate better, but it also stimulates collagen and elastin production, protects and grows adipose fat cells, controls inflammation, reduces oxidative stress and upregulates the growth factors that become depleted as you age. It’s the ultimate script-flipper for your skincare regimen.

 

Beauty /

Cult Favorites from Sally Hansen, Rimmel London and Jergens

I wanted to share some cult favorites from the much-adored beauty companies:  Sally Hansen, Jergens and Rimmel London.

This list of products never lose their luster, following or ability to enhance your look instantly. Sally Hansen Hard As Nails is an iconic product from the brand, one people still love, rely on and adore to keep their nails in tip-top shape. Rimmel London’s ScandalEyes Mascara is still a go-to for instant volume for your lashes and Jergens, although the product is newer, has now released it in the much adored Cherry Almond Scent that Jergens lovers have always known and loved.

Sally Hansen Hard As Nails: 

THINK Protective armor for nails.

WHAT IT IS: The original nail clinic in a bottle. Give your nails the ultimate fortifying treatment with Hard As Nails, a Sally Hansen essential developed to strengthen and support nails. Created to help prevent chipping, splitting and cracking, the multi-tasking formula can be used alone, as a base coat, or as a top coat to seal and protect your manicure. Salon-tested and dermatologist-tested, Hard As Nails provides powerful, long-lasting protection to help nails grow.

For maximum manicure staying power, use before and after applying polish to seal nail edges and create a hard, smooth, chip-resistant surface.  

HOW TO USE: Nails must be clean and free of nail enamel, oil, and cream. Apply 1-2 coats to clean dry nails. Brush around nail edges and under nail tips.

WHAT IT COSTS: $2.75

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Rimmel London ScandalEyes Mascara

THINK: Lashes so big, lush and flirty, it’s scandalous. 

WHAT IT IS: Lashes that get the rumor mill going. Don’t be surprised to find yourself at the center of a scandal with this mascara: Everyone will be whispering that your lashes must be fake when you wear Rimmel London SCANDALEYES Mascara. From the supersized brush to the collagen- and keratin-boosted formula, everything about SCANDALEYES is designed to raise eyebrows and get people talking.

Volume Flash SCANDALEYES Mascara: Get scandalous lashes that cause a stir with this ultra volume-boosting formula, developed to give even the skimpiest lashes a shaped, plumped, exaggerated finish. The secret? SCANDALEYES Mascara is made with a supersized blend featuring triple the collagen and keratin* and a flexible new MaxDensity brush that’s longer, wider, denser and 50% larger than Rimmel’s biggest brush. Instantly captures and plumps each and every lash.

Available shades: Black and Extreme Black

WHAT IT COSTS: $6.99

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Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer (NOW in the cult classic Jergens scent of Cherry Almond)

WHAT IS :  Last year, Jergens® Skincare introduced a game-changing and time-saving way to quickly and intensely hydrate wet skin at the peak moisture moment when it is most receptive to hydration. Jergens® Wet Skin™ Moisturizer is formulated to blend effortlessly to water, immediately absorbing and locking in moisture, with no sticky residue. No need to dry before you apply, and no need to wait before you dress. Glide on Jergens® Wet Skin™ Moisturizer before you step out of the shower and get 2X the moisturization in 1/2 the time.*

This fall, Jergens® Skincare brings women their breakthrough hydration shortcut in a tried and true Jergens Scent….Create a sensory experience with Jergens® Wet Skin™ Moisturizer with Original Cherry Almond Essence, delicately fragranced with the brands timeless and iconic scent.

WHAT IT COSTS: $6.99 for 10 oz.

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Beauty /

Tata Harper Skincare sponsored NYFW 2016 Show: TOME

GET THE LOOK: TOME

TATA HARPER SKINCARE

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DATE:                  Sunday, September 11th, 2016

LOCATION:      The Dock at Moynihan Station, 360 West 33rd Street between 8th and 9th Avenue

SKINCARE:       Tata Harper for Tata Harper Skincare

MAKEUP:          Diane Kendal

LOOK:                 Natural with an edge of universal and tribal (Dinka Tribe)

GET THE LOOK: SKINCARE/MAKEUP

 

Beauty /

Belli Skincare Stretchmark Minimizing Cream – Review

After having kids and experiencing life changes, we all have stretch marks.  This is a sensitive topic (for women) because it’s difficult to find a product that reduces the appearance of uneven skin and imperfections.

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As a blogger, I will admit that I’ve tested a few drugstore products.  The best advice I can share is to create a “stretchmark” regimen and be patient when seeking results.

Review:

I was asked to review the Stretchmark Minimizing Cream from Belli Skincare.  The company’s known for creating products that support pregnancy and early motherhood.  According to the site, ” while expecting their first child, the founders of Belli became very discouraged trying to find safe and effective skincare. This prompted the husband and wife team to marry their expertise, Medical Doctor and Beauty Expert, and develop the trifecta of maternity skincare – ingredient safety, effective solutions with clinically proven ingredients, and luxurious formulations with aromatherapy to provide a spa-like experience.”

After reviewing the product, I am happy to share this is an amazing cream!  The texture is light with visible appearances of hydration.  It’s stated (on the company site) that the minimizing cream has natural ingredients and helps to even out the skin tone.  It also smells nice and can be applied anytime during the day.  I have used the product for a few weeks and confident it will provide wonderful results!

The cream can be purchased online or in store at Nordstrom and Ulta.com  See more information about the product below:

Stretchmark Minimizing Cream from Belli Skincare (www.belliskincare.com), which is specially formulated to decrease the appearance of existing stretchmarks of any age, regardless of the cause? The Cream features darutoside & regisstril, ingredients shown in research studies conducted by Phybiotex Labs, Sederma Group, France, 1997 to visibly reduce the appearance of stretch mark depth by up to 72% and stretch mark length by up to 52%. SRP $49.00

Belli Stretchmark Minimizing Cream

Don’t forget to use the coupon code: “BELLI703879″ for 20% off the entire line on Belli’s website through August 31, 2016.

Beauty /

Beauty Essentials for Summer – Memorial Day

Summer is calling our names! Whether you’re vacationing on the beach, traveling back home or hanging out with your buddies, you want to look and feel your best during this unofficial kick off to summer.

La Roche

NEW La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen ($19.99/ Drugstores nationwide): Introducing Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen – advanced broad spectrum protection that is a 100% oil-free formula, offering a dry-touch texture that won’t cause breakouts. The innovatie formula contains the brand’s patented Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which is a synergistic combination of UVA/UVB filters for broad spectrum SPF 60 protection and a powerful antioxidant complex to protect against damaging free radicals that can accelerate skin aging. Additionally, it contains perlite (a naturally occurring volcanic glass that is able to absorb up to 2.5x its weight in water & oil) and silica (which has the ability to absorb significant amounts of oil) so skin is left soft, matte and protected for hours after use.

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NEW La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Daily Tone Correcting Primer ($39.99/Drugstores nationwide): Developed with dermatologists to help prevent further UVA induced damage and visibly conceal existing skin tone discolorations that can also be attributed to sensitivity. The Anthelios 50 Mineral Daily Tone Correcting Primer is formulated with Cell-OX Shield™, which provides 100% mineral broad spectrum protection and creates a soft focus effect on skin. The breakthrough formula is tinted to help those with light to medium skin tones conceal uneven skin tone issues triggered by UV exposure including visible sun damage, redness, dark spots, acne marks, melasma. The innovative optical blurring technology produces a soft-focus effect to provide skin with an even canvas. Wear this primer alone or under any type of makeup or foundation to help build coverage.

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Nature’s Gate Aqua Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen ($11.50/Whole Foods) A trusted alternative for sun protection, Nature’s Gate Sun Care is safe and gentle for the entire family. Infused with natural botanicals, Nature’s Gate Sunscreens are formulated with responsible and effective ingredients that help protect skin against UV exposure while soothing and hydrating skin. Water resistant (80 minutes). Vegan, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, Oxybenzone Free, Cruelty Free.

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Nature’s Gate Face Broad Spectrum SPF 25 Sunscreen ($11.49, Whole Foods): It is essential to have a good SPF in your beauty regimen! Infused with natural botanicals, Nature’s Gate Sunscreens are formulated with responsible and effective ingredients that help protect skin against UV exposure while soothing and hydrating skin.

Natures Gate 3

Nature’s Gate SPORT Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($11.50/Whole Foods) Vegan, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, Oxybenzone Free, Cruelty Free. Active ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%, Zinc oxide 6.9%

Bed Head Mini Ceramic

Bed Head Line Up™Electric Green Mini Ceramic Straightener ($19.99, Ulta):1/2″ Electric Green Mini Ceramic Straightener. Perfect for small touch-ups, including bangs, roots and ends.

Bed Head Overhaul

Bed Head Attitude Overhaul Mini Straightener ($19.99, Ulta: 1″ Pinkaholic Mini Ceramic Straightener. Keep your attitude in check with seriously straight, extra shiny, frizz free hair

Revlon Hair Dryer

Ergonomic design makes it easy to pack! And, no need to pack multiple tools The Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Styler is a two-in-one powerhouse that reduces styling time and delivers smooth, frizz-free results in half the time. The lightweight, ergonomic design allows you to comfortably dry and style hair using just one hand to smooth out hard to reach areas, especially the back of the head where many people struggle to get smooth results. ($49.99/Target and Ulta)

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Nature’s Gate Sunless Tanner ($10.29, WholeFoods): Get the look of a natural summer tan without exposure to the sun this winter! Nature’s Gates Sunless Tanner provides a natural looking tan while lightly hydrating and soothing skin, with a classic blend of Aloe and Olive oil.

DS Laboratories Spectral

DS Laboratories Spectral.LASH ($49.99, www.dslaboratories.com): Long, luxurious and full eyelashes proclaim youth and attractiveness for both women and men. DS Laboratories created Spectral.LASH, a cutting-edge treatment that helps lashes grow and feel fuller. It’s time to break up your long term relationship with your mascara and lash curler and open your eyes to Spectral.LASH!

DS Laboratories Keramene

DS Laboratories Keraméne ($98.99, www.dslaboratories.com): Depilation, whether it is shaving, waxing, threading or laser hair removal, is a one of the most dreaded beauty chores amongst women and men. Keraméne minimizes the frequency and severity of depilatory sessions and skin stays smoother and silkier with less hair for longer!

DS Laboratories Oligo

DS Laboratories Oligo.DX® ($38.99, www.dslaboratories.com): Physicians agree that cellulite cannot be treated by exercise and diet alone. Both do little or nothing to break up and drain the unsightly cellulite deposits trapped under the skin. DS Laboratories Oligo.DX® is a one-of-a-kind, high-tech breakthrough in skincare. With this unique gel, dimpled fat impervious to diet and exercise takes on a smoother and healthier appearance.

Sente Daily Repair

SENTÉ Daily Repair Complex SENTÉ Daily Repair Complex with SPF 30, engineered with patented HSA Technology, is the most complete age management day cream which hydrates your skin while providing UVA/UVB protection to help prevent sun damage.
Skin Health Benefits:
Smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Provide hydration for radiant, luminous skin
Decrease the appearance of aging skin
Provides UVA/UVB protection
Fast-absorbing, skin-tones, non-greasy formulation blends flawlessly into skin
Retail Price: $130.00, Available at select physician’s offices and online at www.Sentelabs.com

got2b powder

got2b POWDER’ful volumizing powder
Give limp hair a boost with the got2b POWDER’ful volumizing powder Formulated with virtually weightless micro-particles that help texturize the hair’s surface, you can achieve radical root lift on demand by shaking powder on dry strands. Results in 10 seconds flat!
$5.99; mass retailers

ULTIME Omega Repair

Schwarzkopf essence ULTIME Omega Repair11-In-1 Leave-In This 11-in-1 Leave-In, speci­fically formulated for all hair types is enriched with lavishly rich omega oil which features multi-benefits: 1. Intensive Repair*, 2. Split End Control & Prevention, 3. Easier Combing, 4. Shine & Flexibility, 5. Bounce & Vitality, 6. Rebalance Hydration Levels, 7. Non-Burdening Formula, 8. Smoothening, 9. Softness, 10. Frizz Control, 11. Blow Dry Heat Protection.
$6.97; mass retailers.

CrazySmooth Anti-Frizz

CrazySmooth® Anti-Frizz Shampoo & Conditioner
Prepare yourself to be amazed. Breakthrough smoothing, de-frizzing technology, featuring a proprietary blend of exclusive oils including Camellia Oil from Japan and Abyssinian Oil from Africa, with seaweed and shea butter, instantly eliminates unruly frizz and infuses hair with extreme smoothness, shine and super healthy condition without weighing hair down. This 100% vegan formula gently cleanses, rinsing clean for long lasting, brilliant color without the use of harsh sulfates, salts or gluten.
Moisturizes and detangles while cleansing
Eliminates frizz while infusing unsurpassed smoothness, softness and shine into hair
Unsurpassed color and heat protection
Perfect for daily use
$9.50; 2 oz sold exclusively in salons and spas nationwide.

Australian Gold Sport Spray

Australian Gold X-Treme Sport Spray Gel ($7.99; Mass drug stores and AustralianGold.com) Allows you to protect yourself while you stay active with Total Performance Formula. It’s self-adapting polymer technology helps boost SPF and improve water resistance while providing a low-shine finish on skin.

RUSK Smooth Foam

Macadamia Professional Travel Sized Style Extend Dry Shampoo ($10, Ulta.com) Extend the life of your hairstyle with a translucent dry shampoo designed to absorb oil and product build-up. Hair is left feeling clean, revived and full of body.

PCA Skin Sheer

PCA SKIN Sheer Tint SPF 45 Water-Resistant ($49; PCASKIN.com)

This Skin Cancer Foundation recommended, luxurious formulation provides water-resistant, broad spectrum protection with a tinted finish.
· Tested to protect the skin for 80 minutes in water or while sweating

· Protects against aging UVA rays and burning UVB rays

· Titanium Dioxide (6%) and Zinc Oxide (8%) provide broad spectrum UV protection by reflecting, scattering and absorbing UV rays

· Awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation
Key Ingredients:
Ubiquinone (CoEnzyme Q10) – a potent antioxidant that fights free-radical damage. This is especially useful, as UV exposure generates free radicals in the skin.
Iron Oxides – can be naturally occurring or synthesized and are commonly used
to impart natural color into topical products.
Dimethicone – a silicone that contributes to the luxurious slip and finish of this tinted SPF.

Jurlique Sun Specialist

Jurlique Sun Specialist SPF40 High Protection Cream PA+++ ($38 at Jurlique.com) This rich cream combines UVA and UVB sunscreen ingredient technology with new Superberry Complex, a fruit extract blend that delivers essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids to condition and protect the skin from the effects of environmental aggressors. Inca Inchi Oil is rich in essential fatty acids and a special blend of natural emollients and Shea Butter help to maintain optimum skin moisturization during sun exposure for skin that looks and feels protected, hydrated and smooth.

Jurlique Sun Specialist Lotion

Jurlique Sun Specialist After Sun Replenishing Moisturising Lotion ($36 at Jurlique.com) A deeply nourishing, post-sun hydrating lotion for face and body designed to help restore moisture to the skin and maintain a lasting, even tan. This creamy formula is enriched with deeply hydrating natural butters to deliver the ultimate in moisturisation to protect and condition the skin from the effects of the drying effects of sun exposure.

Jurilque Specialist Tanner

Jurlique Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner ($36 at Jurlique.com) This lightweight, non-streaky formula is designed to provide multi-benefits of a natural, golden sunless tan, protection from environmental aggressors and intense hydration. Specially formulated with Sweet Orange fruit extract to help gently produce a natural, bronzed glow, and new Superberry Complex, a fruit extract blend that delivers essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids to protect and condition the skin from the effects of environmental aggressors. With a hint of color for an instant glow and Safflower Seed Oil to deeply hydrate, skin feels smooth, soft with healthy-looking color and luminosity.

Dial

Dial Silk & Magnolia Body Wash ($4.97; Available at grocery drug and mass retailers nationwide) NEW Dial® Silk & Magnolia Body Wash helps restore your skin. Enriched with silk protein, this clean-rinsing formula provides a luxurious lather for healthy skin that feels touchably silky soft.
Enriched with Silk Protein and Magnolia Blossom

Advanced moisture-attracting formula for lasting, lightweight hydration

Clean-rinsing formula provides a luxurious lather for healthier looking skin that feels touchably silky soft.

Equitance Brightening Serum

Equitance Brightening Serum & Spot Corrector ($125 (1.0 fl. oz); available at equitance-us.com) Clinically proven to improve the appearance of discoloration and uneven skin tone. This pioneering spot-targeting serum formula zeroes in on the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark discoloration. It uses patented technology to continuously deliver our key brightening ingredient, linoleic acid. With daily use, this essential step in the Brightening regimen brings clarity, brightness and radiance to skin’s appearance.

Layrite Cement

Layrite Cement Hair Clay, SRP: $19 (4 oz.) at Layrite.com Layrite Cement Hair Clay is an incredible high hold, water-based styling clay that delivers a clean, matte finish that will last all day. The perfect balance of select polymers and waxes with the lowest oil content combine to act like cement, delivering incredible hold with a natural, low shine finish. Unlike other formulas that can weigh hair down by coating it, this formula binds individual hairs together for extreme hold. Water-soluble so it washes out easily and won’t leave build-up behind! For Women: Also perfect for keeping a ponytail or braid in place, or for taming frizz and flyaways!

RUSK Smooth Foam

NEW RUSK Smooth Foam ($18; ULTA) Extends your straight style through 5 shampoos without the long-term commitment and harsh chemicals of a straightening treatment. It helps reduce your blow-dry time by 50% and delivers long-lasting frizz-free straight hair while maintaining hair’s natural movement and style.

Turbo IONIC Dryer

The NEW Hot Tools® Turbo IONIC® Dryer is the perfect combination of quality and design. The modern dryer with a narrow, European nozzle packs an impressive airflow with quiet operation. Its PRO-MOISTURE SYSTEM™ with ION TECHNOLOGY® is supplemented with Tourmaline to deliver a hydrating “spa treatment” for your hair — while fighting frizz and locking in moisture for supremely soft, manageable hair. The contemporary dryer also includes a concentrator with a narrow opening for precise drying. The lightweight dryer is available in classic black or bright neon orange for those who crave a little color in their life. ($70.00; Ulta/Ulta.com)

Hot Tools Digital Flat Iron

Hot Tools 1” Digital Flat Iron
The Titanium plates heat up to 450°F degrees for one pass straightening. The styling iron’s Pulse Technology® delivers prompt heat-up and instant heat recovery for an uninterrupted flow of precision heat that styles quickly and effortlessly. Rounded plate edges and a Soft-Touch finish — complimented by moveable Titanium “Micro-Shine®” styling plates — combine for maximum styling versatility and unsurpassed ergonomic comfort while handling.
($69.99; Ulta.com)

Epsom Salt Soaking Solution

Dr Teal’s Epsom Salt Soaking Solution 1LB
($2.99; Target/Walmart)
Dr Teal’s Epsom Salt Soaking Solution with Lavender is now offered in a light, convenient, compact bag. It is a quick and easy way to rejuvenate your body and soothe tired, achy muscles. The single use bag is lightweight and a great way to get started with Dr Teal’s. Clear your mind and heal your body with this naturally wholesome remedy.

DR Teals Bath and Body Oils

Dr. Teal’s Bath & Body Oils ($6.99, Walmart)
Formulated with super-emollient ingredients, this luxurious treatment gives instant hydration and pampers dry skin.
The lightweight, nourishing oil goes on sheer and vanishes into skin, leaving a silky, radiant finish with the delicate fragrance. The formula also works wonders in a warm tub.
BENEFITS:
Relax & Relief with Eucalyptus Spearmint: Relaxes the body and relieves the mind. Spearmint is used as a restorative for the body while eucalyptus stimulates the senses.
Soothe & Sleep with Lavender: Formulated with lavender essence, which has soothing properties to encourage a better night’s sleep.
Soften & Condition Olive Oil: Skin is infused with moisture from hydrating ingredients: Olive Oil, Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E create this sumptuous, lightly scented formula.
Can be used directly on the skin or in the bath.
Phthalate- and paraben-free.

Infusium

Infusium 23 Repair + Renew Heat Tamer
(8oz / $5.99-$7.99; Walmart/Walgreens)
The Repair & Renew Heat Tamer includes protein-rich Keratin to fortify hair and Argan oil to prevent future damage. This formula protects your hair from superior heat and maximum breakage from temperatures of up to 450 degrees! Fortified with advanced provitamins and amino acids to guard against styling and finishing damages.

 

Beauty /

Winter Skin Beauty Products 2016

Below are great winter skin beauty products –

C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve No. 012

A favorite since the early days of C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, this product offers soothing rose extract to help ease irritation and condition the lips. The Rose Salve can also be used on your face, elbows, knees and cuticle to help condition chapped and dry skin.

Price: $5.50

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Mally Beauty H3 Lipglosses

Obtain triple the hydration and gorgois, luscious lips with this pout-perfecting gloss. Get enviable, fierce coverage with this ultra-moisturizing high-shine gloss that is formulated with antioxidants and plenty of moisture, this gloss will leave your lips full and sparkling.

Available in six shades: Shimmering Nude, Sweet Peach, Tea Rose, Perfect Nude and Orchid Berry at ULTA.com

Price: $20.00

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NUDE Skincare ProGenius Omega Treatment Rescue Oil

NUDE Skincare ProGenius Omega Treatment Rescue Oil refines and helps skin recover with natural antimicrobial and healing, protective ingredients. Bakuchiol (ba-koo-heel) from India serves as a natural alternative to retinol, helping smooth and refine skin without irritation. A trio of potent antioxidants, coleus root, rosemary and thyme extracts, are natural purifiers that clarify skin and defend against daily pollution and stress. Virgin, cold pressed, organic rose hip oil—grown in the pure soil and air of the Chilean Andes—smoothes and nourishes skin with vitamin C and omegas 3 & 6. A rich botanical complex of papaya, hibiscus, and wild carrot root extracts with vitamins A, C, E and omegas locks in essential moisture. This fast-absorbing, featherweight treatment oil is a true lifesaver for everything your skin faces each day.

Price: $68

Available: Sephora.com

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PÜR™ Eyedentity Luxe Firming Eye Cream

this eye cream helps to firm and tighten the delicate skin around your eyes, while minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Formulated with intensive hydrators and nourishing antioxidants, the cream utilizes the renewing power of lactic acid to fight age markers. A key peptide helps to prevent future damage and soothing Shea Butter conditions skin for a soft, smooth complexion.

Price: $49

Available: purminerals.com

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PÜR™ Lip Lure Hydrating Lip Lacquer

Give your lips a burst of hydrating color with this alluring lip lacquer. This unique formula features a blend of Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, and Jojoba Seed Oil, which forms a protective barrier on lips to naturally prevent water loss. This rich, creamy, full-coverage lip color offers a natural shine leaving no residue behind.

Available shades: Belle, Graceful, Fancy, Fiery, Mystic

Price: $22.00

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Mission Grove by Soap & Paper Factory. Made in small batches in the USA, the items are made from the finest oils and extracts like meadowfoam, borage seed, and jojoba and contain aromatherapy oils. Each product is free of sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates and comes stylishly wrapped in paper featuring one of Soap & Paper Factory’s unique designs, along with a chic closure made from natural bamboo.

The new collection features four core fragrances designed to refresh and restore the senses:

  • Sakura: This relaxing and restorative fragrance balances apple and citrus with sweet heliotrope for a perfectly calming combination.

  • Madagascar Vanilla: Deep, sultry notes of bourbon add an intoxicating richness to this soothing vanilla scent.

  • Fig & Honey: Refresh the body and clear the mind with this heady fragrance that combines earthy figs with sweet honey.

  • Cardamom & Coffee: Spicy and stimulating, this complex fragrance combines cardamom and coffee with geranium and sandalwood to detoxify the spirit.

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Tammy Fenders Epi-Peel.

This five-minute exfoliator, mask and peel in one instantly revitalizes the skin. For a smooth complexion, simply coat and dry your skin with the clay mask and peel it off five minutes later. Enriched with Hibiscus and Grape Seed Oils, this peel relieves irritation, promotes circulation and removes toxins from the skin. This unique holistic formula also stimulates the flow of chi, the body’s energy, to enliven the spirit and stimulate clarity, bringing vibrant and healthy skin from the inside out.

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Price: $80

Available: TammyFender.com

Beauty /

Dr. Brandt 3-D Filler Mask at Sephora

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brandt® skincare is excited to announce its collaboration with Kristofer Buckle, a celebrity makeup artist beloved by Hollywood’s A-list. To kick off­ this exciting initiative, Buckle – one of the most sought after contour experts in the business – will star in a how-to video that highlights the newest trend in beauty: contouring without makeup. A game-changing technique made possible by dr. brandt skincare’s latest innovation, needles no more™ 3-D Filler Mask, it allows you to reshape, revolumize and fill facial contours, for a more youthful look.

THE INSPIRATION: Dr. Brandt believed that the convexities and concavities of the face – and the way light reflects off them – play a major role in revealing our true age. By changing the way light bounces off the face, needles no more™ 3-D Filler Mask makes it look naturally younger and more attractive. The formula melts into skin to enhance cheekbones and create dewy highlights. It’s what the art of contouring is all about, yet works without layers of product.

THE TECHNOLOGY: A unique, skin-plumping formula inspired by the latest injectable fillers, needles no more™ 3-D Filler Mask restores lost volume and fills in wrinkles and folds for a softer, lifted, more youthful look. Packed with Adipofill’in a revolutionary plumping complex, combined with hyaluronic acid (the key ingredient in dermal fillers, which absorbs its own weight in water to pull moisture into the skin), and rejuvenating peptides, the self-sculpting blend counteracts the classic downward droop that comes with age. Use it daily for a noticeably smoother, softer, more refreshed look — or anytime you want to lend your face youthful dimension and a healthy glow.

JUST IN TIME FOR THE NEW YEAR: Filled with invaluable contouring and anti-aging tips that anyone can use, the new Kristofer Buckle/dr. brandt skincare video will premiere on youtube and at drbrandtskincare.com. Now available at drbrandtskincare. com, needles no more™ 3-D Filler Mask will launch at Sephora in January 2016.

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Beauty /

Desiree Stordahl Skincare Expert Interview and Book

Desiree Stordahl is a best-selling beauty co-author, alongside legendary skincare expert Paula Begoun, dedicated to using her years of expertise to help people solve their skincare woes, from acne to wrinkles and everything in between. Desiree’s passion for all things beauty carries over to makeup with game-changing trends, tips, and tricks for flawless skin. Whether you need to know how to treat crow’s feet or under-eye circles, Desiree is your expert.

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1. How did you get started in the beauty industry?
The only way I can explain it is fate! Growing up I had my fair share of skin struggles, and my family was on a very limited budget so I needed products that I could buy over-the-counter that would really work.
Unfortunately, nothing seemed to do the trick so I turned to makeup to at least camouflage my breakouts. I got pretty good at doing makeup on myself and others, and my passion for all things beauty carried over into my school work…I still have a report from 8th grade called “Beauty by the Buck” where I analyzed whether or not expensive cosmetic products were better formulated than their drugstore competitors.
Fast-forward to the college years, I graduated with a degree in Communication Studies and went on to work in sales and marketing. All the meanwhile my struggles with acne didn’t let up… nor did my passion for skincare and makeup fizzle out. It was my dream to somehow work in the beauty industry, but I didn’t yet know how that would play out.
One fateful day I saw an ad to work for a “Paula’s Choice Skincare and Cosmetics Company” and several interviews with the legendary Paula Begoun later I KNEW this is where I belonged. Paula took me under her wing, trained me how to interpret cosmetic studies, made me promise to never tan again or she’d fire me  (true story) and taught me why so many skincare products didn’t work like they said they would and what to do instead. Once I got my skin under control I wanted to share that same life-changing info with others, and the rest, as they say, is history! Several years and two books later, here I am.
It feels so serendipitous that everything fell into place at the right time, but really, when I reflect back it’s clear that actually my whole life had been preparing me for this role. God had my plan in motion from the get-go—I just didn’t know it!
 2. What are some of the best beauty products to have radiant skin?
Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) and alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) leave-on exfoliants are game changers. By gently getting rid of the built up layer of dead skin cells, BHA and AHA exfoliants help smooth wrinkles and reveal the radiant skin hiding under a dull complexion. And don’t let the “acid” part of their names scare you… they’re actually gentler on your skin than using a scrub!
In the realm of makeup, a good highlighter works wonders for a youthful glow. Becca Cosmetics makes some of the best luminizing products out there, and just a couple strategically placed highlights can really liven up a drab complexion.
For the days I go without makeup but want a hint of luminosity, I love the Resist Pure Radiance Skin Brightening Treatment from Paula’s Choice. It’s formulated with ingredients that fade discolorations for a more even skin tone + it contains mineral pigments that instantly revitalize and brighten the complexion.
3. Share with us the appropriate age for women to start using anti-aging products?
There isn’t a hard and fast rule, but if you want to keep your skin looking as young and healthy as possible, it pays to start using anti-aging products from the moment you earn your own money to buy them! Think of it like a healthy diet. You wouldn’t prolong eating nutritious, antioxidant-rich foods until you’re in your 40s, right? The same should go for skin. The earlier you start using products loaded with anti-aging ingredients such as antioxidants, retinol, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, etc., the better off your skin is going to be in the long run.
Above all else, start wearing sunscreen on a daily basis no matter what your age. That’s the #1 way to halt the signs of aging!
 4. What are the top 5 wrinkle creams and skin tighteners?  
It’s hard to pick the top five when there are so many great formulas out there, but here are some great wrinkle-fighting and skin-firming options based on the research behind their ingredients:
In terms of traditional “skin tighteners”, the tightening effect of many of these types of products comes from a high amount of film-forming ingredients, which make skin feel tighter temporarily, but skin “feeling” tighter is not the same as making a real change for the long run. However, with products like those mentioned above, you can create healthier, younger-looking skin, and in some cases, increase firmness.
5. In your book, you mentioned natural ingredients that are bad for the skin.  Could you share a few here?
There are many natural ingredients that are brilliant for skin, but there are also many that do much more harm than good. For instance, despite their popularity essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, and jasmine contain volatile, fragrant compounds that incite pro-aging inflammation to the skin. Citrus extracts, such as lemon, grapefruit and orange, should also be avoided due to their sensitizing/irritating effect that impairs the skin’s immune response. Other natural ingredients to watch out for include witch hazel, ylang ylang, arnica, and balm mint oil, just to name a few.
If you’ve ever used products with these kinds of ingredients and wonder why they don’t appear to be problematic for you, keep in mind that research has demonstrated that you don’t need to see or feel irritation for it to be causing damage below the surface layer of skin. They’re sneaky in that way—speeding up the signs of aging without you knowing it.
6. How can readers learn more about your expertise and wonderful book?
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Beauty /

Birchbox and Rent The Runway Launch: Black Friday Sales

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Birchbox (www.birchbox.com), a leading beauty and grooming retailer, has opened its doors in Washington, D.C. in partnership with Rent the Runway, which is revolutionizing fashion by allowing millions of women to rent designer apparel and accessories. On Friday, November 6, Birchbox launched a beauty shop in a dedicated space at Rent the Runway’s Georgetown store, allowing local customers to get a complete new look from head to toe – from on-trend outfits and accessories to the latest lipsticks and head-turning hairstyles.

The shop features the following elements to help Washingtonians prepare for special occasions and upgrade their everyday looks:

  • A Build Your Own Birchbox (BYOB) station with an exclusive new box design co-branded with Rent the Runway ($15)
  • A curated shop featuring the best hair, makeup, skincare and fragrance products, as well as holiday gift sets, from brands including Bumble and Bumble, Dr. Jart, Living Proof, Oribe, RMS Beauty, Smashbox, Stila and Sunday Riley, among others
  • Birchbox subscriptions and gift subscriptions for purchase (starting at $30)
  • Makeup services (starting at $30)
  • Special offers and events

 

“Birchbox has a large subscriber base in the DC area and our customers want to look their best, but don’t always have time to navigate the latest new products and trends. Together with Rent the Runway, we’re able to offer a one-stop-shop edited with the very best in beauty and fashion,” said Katia Beauchamp, Co-Founder and CEO of Birchbox. “It’s designed to bring delight to discovering new product by having an easy and efficient shopping experience. As we approach 2016, we’ll continue exploring meaningful opportunities to bring Birchbox to life offline.”

Customers can visit www.birchbox.com/georgetown for more information on Birchbox at Rent the Runway Georgetown, located at 3336 M Street NW. Birchbox has a flagship store in Soho, NY and plans to open additional stand-alone stores in 2016.

About Birchbox

Founded in 2010, Birchbox is a leading beauty and grooming retailer, offering an efficient, personalized way to discover and shop for new products. Birchbox redefined the online shopping experience by pairing a monthly subscription of deluxe samples – tailored to customers’ unique profiles – with inspiring editorial content to create a seamless path to purchase full-size products online. More than 800 best-in-class beauty, grooming and lifestyle brands are available on Birchbox’s e-commerce shop. In 2012, Birchbox launched Birchbox Man and expanded internationally, and in 2014, Birchbox opened its first brick-and-mortar store in Soho, New York. Today, Birchbox has more than 1 million subscribers and operates in six countries, including France, Spain, UK, Belgium and Canada. Birchbox is headquartered in New York City. To learn more, visit www.birchbox.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Snapchat.

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Black Friday

For US men and women – spend $35 on gift subscriptions and/or full-size product and get:

  • Non-Ace: 25% off with code BIGDEAL
  • Ace: 30% off with code ACESONLY
  • No limit to code usage

For CA women – spend $45 on gift subscriptions and/or full-size product and get

  • 25% off with code BIGDEAL
  • No limit to code usage

Cyber Monday

Same offer as above as above but codes are:

  • Non-Ace: PARTYON
  • Ace: ACEDIT
  • No limit to code usage
Accessories /

Soft Surroundings – Grande Opening at Westfield Annapolis Mall

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Soft Surroundings, a leading multi-channel retailer committed to providing stylish, casual clothing with a comfort fit, the latest in beauty and skincare, jewelry and accessories, and home furnishings to women of all ages, maintains its dedication to providing an extraordinary shopping experience by announcing plans to open a Maryland location, specifically at the Westfield Annapolis Mall in Annapolis, MD. “We are so excited to expand our East Coast presence with an upcoming Soft Surroundings location in Maryland,” said Sr. Vice President of Retail Stores, Danny Boddy.

“Our Westfield Annapolis Mall location will provide women throughout Anne Arundel County and beyond the opportunity to experience what we are all about. We offer beautiful apparel, luxurious bedding, curated furniture from around the world and beauty solutions – all hand chosen for today’s busy woman. Our passion for customer service and the integrity of our brand gives us the ability to share our story and hopefully make our customers’ lives a little more fulfilled and enjoyable.” The Westfield Annapolis Mall location is part of an eleven store expansion for 2015.

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The new location will not only feature the popular merchandise found in the Soft Surroundings catalogs and website, but will also offer customers a variety of unique, store-exclusive merchandise to further enhance their shopping experience. An all-day Grand Opening Event will be held at the store on Friday, November 20th. About Soft Surroundings: Headquartered in St. Louis, MO, Soft Surroundings is an upscale lifestyle brand and retailer of women’s apparel, home, and beauty products. Releasing its first catalog in 1999, Soft Surroundings has been dedicated to making women look and feel their best ever since.

Having experienced record growth in its online and catalog channels, Soft Surroundings opened its first retail location in St. Louis, MO in November of 2005, followed by additional stores in Hartford, CT; Kansas City, MO; Chicago, IL; Denver, CO; San Antonio, TX; Houston, TX; Dallas, TX; Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Atlanta, GA; Richmond, VA; Fairfax, VA; Madison, WI; Paramus, NJ; Bridgewater, NJ; Memphis, TN; Portland, OR; Seattle, WA; Cleveland, OH; Tucson, AZ; Scottsdale, AZ; and Chandler, AZ. Soft Surroundings is continuing to expand its retail division nationally to meet the needs of its many devoted customers.