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Cosmeceuticals Archives

September 15, 2006

Jane Iredale At The Emmys Ultimate Green Room

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Seen above is Masela Lusha having her eyes adorned with minerals from Jane Iredale. Jane Iredale was one of the sponsors at the Ultimate Green Room. Jane believes "The most beautiful cosmetic you can wear is a healthy skin" Other celebrities who visited: Daphne Zuniga, Nick Gonzalez, Ashley & Courtney Peldon, Kathy Griffin, Kathy Najimy, Bahar Soomekh & Daryl Hanna. Take a walk around with Daryl Hanna and view the video below. The first interview is on Jane Iredale.


October 10, 2006

Clarins Cosmetics is Going Organic

I knew the day would come when one of the top 5; Lauder, L'Oreal, etc. would jump on the organic band wagon. Clarins steps in organic cosmetics. French cosmetics maker Clarins has concluded an agreement with organic cosmetics producer Kibio for the joint development of a line of natural organic cosmetics. Under the terms of this agreement, Clarins acquires a 10% stake in Kibio SAS and subscribes to the full amount of a convertible bond issue. The total investment is EUR 3 million. The conversion of the bonds which will be possible starting in 2008 will enable Clarins to increase its shareholding in Kibio to 60%.

Kibio, created in 2005 by Pierre Cabane and Laurent Potier, has developed a line of organic products certified by Ecocert.

Currently in the initial commercial development phase, Kibio products are mainly distributed through direct sales using the method of home demonstrations. The products are also available for sale at the brand's website: www.kibio.com

October 14, 2006

Mineral Cosmetics Feed From Jane Iredale

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October 15, 2006

Jane Iredale, Exclusive Cosmetics Sponsor of Spa Week: Pampering Across The Nation

Pampering and healthy skin across the nation. Every woman loves a little time for rest and relaxation. According to a survey conducted by the International Spa Association spas are one of the biggest growth industries in America.

According to the results, 95 million visits are made to spas in the United States annually generating $5 billion in revenues. Spas generate more in revenue than ski resorts ($3.1 billion) and only slightly less than box office receipts ($7.5 billion).

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With these kind of numbers in mind it is no wonder that Spa Week has grown into an incredible public relations event for spas around the country. With over 300 spas participating from coast to coast and all around the country, Spa Week is setting up shop in a city near you. Spa Week hits New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, D.C., Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Miami and Minnesota October 16th-22nd.

But Spa Week isn't just about facials and massages. Keeping in spirit with the desire to reach out to women across the country desiring to be pampered Jane Iredale Cosmetics is one of the sponsors of Spa Week

One lucky winner will receive Jane's Fall 2006 line. So hop to it and enter here! Just think how great your makeup will look freshly pampered skin after Spa Week!

Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics Spa Week Sweepstakes


October 30, 2006

Cosmeceuticals: Science, Marketing, or a Little of Both?

Cosmeceuticals are loosely defined as products combining the benefits of a cosmetic and a pharmaceutical. The term is used by many skin-care companies, especially those sold or endorsed by dermatologists, to give the impression the products have more effective or more biologically active ingredients than just ordinary cosmetics. As more and more doctors get into selling or endorsing skin-care products, you will hear more and more about cosmeceuticals. Dr. Tina Alster is the spokesperson for Lancome; Dr. Karyn Grossman is the spokesperson for Prescriptives; Dr. Patricia Wexler's namesake products, Patricia Wexler M.D. Dermatology, launched this fall; Skin Effects by Dr. Jeffrey Dover is at CVS; Dr. Sheldon Pinnell's SkinCeuticals line has been purchased by L'Oreal; and, of course, there’s N.V. Perricone, M.D. Upping the ante in this group is Dr. Howard Sobel, who added the outrageously priced RMX Maximum—$1,000 for a 28-day supply—to his DDF skin-care line.

Despite all this medical pedigree, the term cosmeceutical is not in any way regulated or controlled, and anyone can slap that label on their products to promote them as being more "medical." Cosmeceuticals are nothing more than a marketing term with illusions of grandeur. Even the FDA says cosmeceuticals don't exist, and considers these products to be merely cosmetics with clever marketing language attached.

Continue reading "Cosmeceuticals: Science, Marketing, or a Little of Both?" »

December 27, 2006

Skin Care After 30

If you are over the age of 30, chances are that you have noticed your facial skin start to change. Women in peri-menopause and menopause start to notice the loss of elasticity and moisture in their skin, which many times requires them to change the skin care routine they had been implementing previously. I know oftentimes, my mother, grandmother and aunts ask me what products are out there to combat the signs of aging, at least on the surface level without plastic surgery.

Below is a list of the 12 skin symptoms associated with estrogen loss as complied by Dr. Stuart Kaplan, a dermatologist and creator of kaplanMD. As you go through each skin sign, see if you can relate.

1. Accelerated formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Adult acne.
3. Flushing/redness.
4. Loss of firmness.
5. Loss of elasticity.
6. Thinning, colorless or translucent skin.
7. Dull, lackluster skin,
8. Dry, dehydrated skin.
9. Uneven pigmentation.
10. Facial hair growth.
11. Photosensitivity (sensitive to sun exposure).
12. Hypersensitivity (skin is more sensitive to irritation, allergies and bruising).

Continue reading "Skin Care After 30" »

January 11, 2007

SAMPAR Winsome Body Line

I came across an interesting beauty line today by a company called SAMPAR. They are based in Paris and recently launched a new line of products called Winsome. The line is comprised of 5 products, which are meant to cleanse, contour, moisturize, protect and invigorate the body. What intrigued me most about SAMPAR is their investment in research to find natural active ingredients that can have a positive effect on the skin and go as far as looking at how their packaging can be beneficial to the product it holds.

The main component in their products is their Urban Active Complex, which contains Shea Butter, Mint Leaf and Vegetal and Milk Sugar. While I didn’t know the benefits of the last two ingredients prior to reading about them, I am well aware of how wonderful Shea Butter is for your skin. SAMPAR combines their Urban Active Complex with essential oils, biopeptides, natural vitamin C and antioxidants.

The Winsome Body line is one that offers protection from the elements such as lead, iron and chlorine found in tap water. While the Dew It Again Shower Gel, Joyous Body Milk and Lap of Luxury Sea Scrub sound divine; I am skeptical about two of the other products. Go Figure Slimming Gel claims to be able to eliminate and break down fats while preventing the appearance of new fat and the Lift Me Up Bust Cream says it can envelop the breasts with an invisible firming film for immediate enhancement. I honestly have yet to find any non-medical beauty product that can do either.

Have you tried any of the products from SAMPAR; what are your thoughts on them?

January 18, 2007

Decleor: Aroma-Skincare offering relaxation and well-being

Decleor Paris is a luxurious face, body and suncare line for both men and women. Decleor was founded by a team of aromatherapy experts who use their knowledge of active plant extracts to create a comprehensive line of products that are both preventative and on going natural skin care. Decleor is also partnered by Shiseido, known for their wonderful beauty products, and are also the 4th largest beauty group in the industry.

Essential oils have wonderful healing properties with aromatic fragrances that, depending on which oil is used or combined with another, promotes such things as well being, calm, relaxation and so on, therefore promoting balance of both body and mind.

While Decleor’s packaging makes you feel like you just bought a diamond necklace at Tiffany’s, don’t be fooled that the luxury ends there. It’s what is inside the package that is luxurious, making your skin look and feel like you just spent hours at the spa. In fact, Decleor also offers Salon and Spa treatments at select locations. Within the US, it is at Hotel Sofitel in Los Angeles where you can receive their Aroma Mosaic treatments that focuses on care of your face, body and the effects of the sun. Each focused treatment is broken down to be tailor made based on the needs of each individual.

You can find Decleor products in various cities throughout the country or locate one close to you with your zip code through their website: www.decleor-us.com

January 19, 2007

Somme Institute: Scientifically Advanced Skin Care

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Somme Institute is a cosmeceutical company that has treated the faces of leading models from such agencies as Ford, Wilhelmina and Elite. While we know that many model’s faces don’t entirely escape the photoshopping process, they still need to have gorgeous skin to make it in the industry (there are no computers there to help you on the catwalk). Somme Institute provides that gorgeous skin through its patent-pending formulation of six potent vitamins to deliver results for any skin type.

Somme Institute's MDT5, Molecular Dispersion Technology 5, was brought to life through the collaboration of leading research dermatologists and scientists rigorously testing their product and observing and tracking results using ultra-violet cameras. Ultra-violet cameras are the only way to see beneath the skin's surface and detect damage not visible to the naked eye. The MDT5 complex consists of vitamins A, C, E, D, B3 and B5, which are non-prescription yet highly effective in strength when working together.

The main purpose of their product line is to combat acne without over drying the skin. Over drying the skin makes acne worse by further clogging pores when it sends the sebaceous glands into overdrive trying to compensate for your dry skin. Other effects of the product line are reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reduce sun damage and lighten brown age spots, and improve skin’s tone, texture and clarity. While some can come to see improvement in a few days, true improvement comes over time and with daily use can shown prominent results in 4 weeks.

The 5 products in Somme Institute's line are the Nourishing Cleanser, Transport, Serum, A-Bomb and Double Defense Day Moisture SPF 30. Each product contains the MDT5 complex while also containing additional blends of ingredients unique to each product.

If you have used Somme Institute's products, I’m interested to know what you thought of them.

January 23, 2007

Sunburns: Is an end in sight?

I’m always surprised by the amount of people I encounter who soley use sunscreen in the summer months. No matter what time of year, UVA and UVB rays can cause damage to your skin if you are not well protected. Just because it is winter doesn’t mean your skin should brave the elementals, you’ll be sure to pay for it later.

UVA:
Can pass through window glass.
Is not affected by a change in altitude or weather.
Is present all day and every day of the year.
Penetrates deep into skin layers.
Are 5% of the sun's rays.
Is 20 times more abundant than UVB rays.
Affects long-term skin damage.

UVB:
Cannot pass through window glass.
Causes sunburn.
Causes tanning.
Helps the body with normal vitamin D production.
Varies with the season.
It is more intense in the summer than in the winter.
Varies with weather conditions.
Is more intense at midday than in the morning or late afternoon.
Is more intense at high altitudes and near the equator.
Are 0.5% of the sun's rays.
Is protected against by the SPF in sunscreens.
Is related to more than 90% of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Is related to cataracts.

Continue reading "Sunburns: Is an end in sight?" »

January 29, 2007

Tarte Cosmetics & BORBA: Lipgloss Meets Nutraceuticals

Tarte Cosmetics, known for their fabulous Cheek Stains and double-ended lipgloss and BORBA, known for their all natural products and drinkable skin care, have come together for what is likely to become a trend among cosmetics companies this year. tarte Cosmetics has teamed up with BORBA to create their newest lip gloss set to launch in February called Inside Out. Inside Out is a vitamin-infused lipgloss that tarte calls a “double-duty” beauty product. It’s one that not only works on the outside of the body, but on the inside as well. The gloss works to soothe and hydrate your lips, while the nutraceutical blend delivers powerful skin care ingredients.

Scott Vincent Borba exclusively created the blend of vitamins for tarte’s Inside Out lipgloss. It is a combination of all natural ingredients from BORBA’s Clarifying, Age Defying and Replenishing lines. They include Acai & green tea extract which help strengthen capillary walls, reduce epidermal irritation and enhance skin’s clarity and radiance; Grape seed extract & Vitamin C which help accelerate production of natural elastin, protecting skin against free-radical damage & restore skin’s clarity, Vitamins A, E & K which act as antioxidants to give you that healthy glow, and Lychee extract promotes long-term skin hydration and chamomile extract soothes skin and helps to counteract redness. Inside Out comes in 3 colors; shimmery pale pink, hot pink and nude. Each gloss is 5.7oz. and is scented with pomegranate, the same scent as BORBA’s Clarifying Cotton Fibers.

Continue reading "Tarte Cosmetics & BORBA: Lipgloss Meets Nutraceuticals" »

February 6, 2007

Kate Somerville Debuts on QVC

Kate Somerville, a widely respected industry leader in medi-skin care, will promote her products among her beauty industry peers such as Maureen Kelly, CEO & Founder of Tarte and Cristina Carlino, creator of Philosophy on Sunday, February 11th on QVC according to WWD. Kate Somerville’s debut comes at a time when beauty brands are beginning to see the value in promoting their lines on such networks as QVC and HSN.

Kate Somerville’s skin care products have a celebrity following like no other, it’s no wonder she has been touted on such shows as E!, Access Hollywood and Extra. Beyond her skin care products, Kate also has a Clinic on Melrose Place where her staff perform such non-invasive, non-surgical procedures such as Titan, an FDA approved treatment of lax skin of the face, neck and body (the before and after pictures are really amazing).

Bringing a more personalized approach to her products through promotion on QVC will only further Kate Somerville’s success in the skin care industry.

Have you used Kate Somerville’s products? If so, let us know what you thought.

February 8, 2007

Lose Weight With A Lip Gloss?

With a very bold question mark, that is exactly what I was thinking when I read this headline in Global Cosmetic Industry Magazine. Global Cosmetic Industry Magazine only reported on the gloss and gave no opinion either way to support the claim, however, all sorts of questions popped into my head, as I am sure it would for anyone hearing that a lip gloss has been produced and can help you lose weight. The lip gloss, Promise, is made by Omega Tech Labs and claims that it’s users and dr. have confirmed weight loss through using it.

When scouring the internet for information about this product, I found out that it came out in April of 2006. I’m not sure why I haven't heard about this product before. Maybe because if it really worked it would be all over the news? I obviously can't say for sure, since I have never actually tried this product.

Promise is made of essential oils that are indeed known to be appetite suppressants and the website says that by licking your lips these oils are delivered into your blood stream. Some things that pop out at me are the lack of directional use; how many times a day do you apply it and is there such thing as lip gloss overdose? Sounds silly, but when a lip gloss is meant as a means to lose weight, you do have to wonder. Also, the website simply states, "Many people have lost weight and keep it off." How many is "many," how much weight did they lose, how long did they keep it off, how many tubes of Promise were the norm for an average weight loss, and honestly, my questions go on and on and on. The testimonies page simply shows 3 testimonies of weight loss, two of which are quite strangely, from the same town.

I don't want to be one to put down a product I have never used, so if you have used Promise, I invite you to leave your thoughts about it in our comments.

February 19, 2007

Got problem skin? Get Epionce, Skin Problem Solved

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My skin and I have been at odds with each other for the longest time. I don’t necessarily have normal to oily skin, but dry to oily skin. It’s really been a quagmire to find a product that won’t further dry out the dry areas, but won’t also moisturize too much in the oily areas either.

Several weeks ago I began using Epionce’s Lytic Gel Cleanser and Purifying Lytic Toner, both are geared towards problem skin types. Both products are fragrance free and non-comedogenic. I was, of course, skeptical that this would be the product to reduce that shine, yet still keep the dry sections of my face from further damage.

Before I even get into how the product worked, I liked right away how the Lytic Gel Cleanser’s top had an open/close twist to it. This is perfect for when you have to travel and pack it away, so that it is not leaking all over your clothes. Furthermore, as a parent, it means little fingers cannot get a hold of it and pump away my precious product.

Continue reading "Got problem skin? Get Epionce, Skin Problem Solved" »

March 1, 2007

CoverToxTen50™ Wrinkle Therapy Face Powder

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Today when I made a trip down to my local CVS, I decided to browse through their new cosmetics section and came upon Physicians Formula’s newest products. While I decided to pick up their new Conceal Rx in soft green, I looked at their CoverToxTen50 with some skepticism. CoverToxTen50 is their new face powder that they say will reduce wrinkles by 50% in 10 minutes, by 90% in 10 hours and by day 10 one should expect to see visibly smoother skin.

I’ll preface this by saying I have not tried the product nor is this a review, but I have to wonder how a face powder can reduce wrinkles in 10 minutes. I looked through the ingredients and did some research to see if there was anything miraculous involved. I decided to go to Paula Begoun’s cosmetic ingredient listing to see if I could decipher which ingredients Physician’s Formula was claiming to be the wrinkle reducer. It is the Aminobutyric Acid that is considered the GABA technology listed on the package as a time-release formula to lessen the appearance of wrinkles. According to Paula, GABA Aminobutyric Acid is an amino acid synthesized in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter inhibitor. GABA is used in cosmetics with claims of being a wrinkle reducer and is said to relax muscles, however there are no substantiated scientific studies to back this up. As Paula notes, topical application of GABA in no way has the same effect that it would internally.

Continue reading "CoverToxTen50™ Wrinkle Therapy Face Powder" »

March 6, 2007

Lamas Beauty: Healthy Natural Ingredients That Deliver

Today while attending a webinar by Global Cosmetic Industry Magazine, Peter Lamas introduced his brand, Lamas Beauty. The topic was Beauty Goes Green and Lamas Beauty definitely fits into that category as they are 100% Vegan. However, it wasn’t only his products that caught my attention, but the fact that he was prompted into action to create them through life events. It is brands like Lamas Beauty that often catch my attention because I love hearing the passion and circumstances that made the brand possible.

Peter Lamas’ passion for organic Vegan products stems from the unfortunate circumstances that resulted in cancer striking his mother, then three close family friends (all sisters), and then his client at the time, Jackie Kennedy Onassis. After learning that certain chemicals they encountered in their lifetime may have been the culprit, Lamas set out to create beauty products that were safe and led the way creating the first line of hair care products free of parabens and sodium lauryl sulphate; several products from this same hair care line is also Certified Organic. Nearly all of his skin and body care products are paraben-free and he is currently working on converting his entire line over using new ingredients that replace parabens.

Some of the products that caught my attention are:

Continue reading "Lamas Beauty: Healthy Natural Ingredients That Deliver" »

March 12, 2007

Beauty Review Roundup: Products For Your Face

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NYX Cosmetics Trio Eyeshadow
4 out of 5 Stars

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When I had thought I had enough eyeshadows, I came across NYX Cosmetics. I don’t get too excited over color when I receive a product, but I received the Trio Eyeshadow in Pearl, Silver and Charcoal; colors I have never used on my eyes before...Read more.

Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Base SPF 18
5 out of 5 Stars

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The PurePressed Base is a mineral concealer, foundation, powder and sunscreen all in one. I received mine in Warm Sienna, which is a warm tone. The compact comes with a puff to apply the powder, but I have been using a facial brush and this puff interchangably...Read more.

e.l.f. Eye Makeup Remover
1 out of 5 Stars

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There are so many products by e.l.f. that I love. Their Hypershine Gloss, Moisture Care Lip Color, Super Glossy Lip Shine and Nail Polish Remover Pads to name a few. However, the Eye Makeup Remover is sadly not on that list of love...Read more.

Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover
2 out of 5 Stars

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It basically looks very similar to the Mary Kay makeup remover I had been using previously, except that it doesn’t have the holed cap to prevent over doing it when putting some on a cotton pad. It removed my eye makeup without issue. With my previous makeup remover, I could also use it on my face, which I tried to do with this and just ended up feeling like an oil slick...Read more.

March 15, 2007

Review: Cosmedicine Medi-Morphosis

I came across Cosmedicine’s self-adjusting exfoliator Medi-Morphosis on Sephora.com a few days ago. It sounded interesting, as I had never heard of a self-adjusting exfoliator before. I wasn’t sure what to expect, however I am one who firmly believes in exfoliating twice per week, so I figured I would give it a try.

I chose not to read the Cosmedicine website prior to using the product because I whole-heartedly wanted to go into the review without any preconceived notions or thoughts on the product. I simply opened the package and followed the directions. The product itself is slightly thick and pasty. It was quite different than any other exfoliator I have used before, which normally is an exfoliant suspended in a gel or lotion-like substance. Medi-Morphosis has crystals that appear invisible, as they are white in a white substance.

Upon smoothing it over my skin it felt a little abrasive at first, I would even go so far to say it felt a little sand paper-like. The directions say to continue massaging Medi-Morphosis until the crystals dissolve and you no longer feel the exfoliants. After about 1.5 minutes of massaging Medi-Morphosis on my face, I began to worry because I still felt the crystals, but feared I would come out of the shower to find my face red and irritated. I decided to stop massaging the product into my face and rinsed it off. My skin was definitely left with an ultra-clean feeling. I suffer from combination skin and the after effect definitely felt wonderful.

Continue reading "Review: Cosmedicine Medi-Morphosis" »

March 21, 2007

Coca Cola Looking To Enter The Drinkable Skin Care Market With Lumae

We are all quite familiar with Borba, the leader in drinkable skin care with their fabulous aqua-less crystalline and skin balancing waters that focuses on beauty from the inside out. Recently it was leaked that Danone would be launching Essensis their “beauty yogurt” to promote healthier skin in a select few European countries. Then we have Nestle and L’Oreal’s joint venture of Inneov, nutritional supplements or “beauty pills” aimed at skin and hair nutrition. It appears that NutriCosmetics will now become a niche in the beauty industry.

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It’s now being rumored that Coca Cola (with the help of L'Oreal) will also be stepping into the beauty ring with a new tea based drinkable skin care line. Snake Oil? They recently have trademarked the name “Lumae” with the intention to produce a product that will allegedly be added to their 2008 product lineup as a way for women to take better care of their skin. Lumae won’t be something you will find on your supermarket shelves, but one that will call itself home in the beauty section of your local department store like Sak’s Fifth Avenue. Considering that the product will only be coming out a year from now, the success or failure this year of the drinkable skin care niche may be a predetermining factor of whether or not their product will be a success.

Continue reading "Coca Cola Looking To Enter The Drinkable Skin Care Market With Lumae" »

April 13, 2007

Beauty Trend: Pomegranate In Skin Care

Women’s Wear Daily had an article today that brought attention to one of the newest beauty trends going on that involves pomegranate. Last year we began to see the trend when it came to food products, but now it has made the cross over to skin care and cosmetics as well.

Studies have shown pomegranates to have powerful antioxidant properties. These properties are not only beneficial to our health when we eat the fruit or when it is an ingredient in a food product, but it is also beneficial in topical skin care. Pomegranates are said to promote the regeneration of cells in the two most important layers of healthy skin, the epidermis and dermis. One of my favorite facial moisturizers is Korres Pomegranate Balancing Moisturizer. It’s perfect for my combination skin and also the elasticity as I get older. (The scent is pretty intoxicating as well.)

One of the cosmetic lines that I use is Jane Iredale’s, which is mineral makeup with skin care benefits. Most of Jane Iredale’s products contain pomegranate extract. As Jane notes on her website:

"According to researchers from the University of Wisconsin, it’s also a promising agent against skin cancer. Researchers assessed the effect of skin application of pomegranate extract on induced skin tumors. The skin pretreated with pomegranate extract showed substantially reduced tumor incidence.”

Jane Iredale’s Pom Mist is a facial spritzer that contains pomegranate extract to keep your skin healthy and as a base to set her mineral powders. Some of her other products that contain pomegranate extract are her Matte Loose Finish Powder, Pure Gloss, eye shadows and so on. You can check out her website and type in “pomegranate extract” to pull up the complete listing of products that contain this ingredient.

The pomegranate bandwagon is definitely one trend that is advantageous to get in on. With nothing but health benefits for our skin, it’s one ingredient that I don’t mind seeing so many brands adding to their beauty products.

April 16, 2007

Beauty Review Roundup: Spotlight On Tarte Cosmetics

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Tarte Cosmetics Cheek Stain
5 out of 5 Stars
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Tarte sent me flush and tipsy. Flush is said to be that “just in from the cold/cozying up by the fire” type color and tipsy, well described to be the color you get when you’ve have one too many. I first looked at flush and thought, “Yikes, red and purple sort of!” I was afraid of this plumb red color. As we get deeper into the winter, my skin just seems to get paler and paler. I thought it would be too dark/bright, but I was wrong...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Inside Out Nutraceutical Lip Gloss
3 out of 5 Stars
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Back in January I was sent Inside Out, which was collaborated on with tarte Cosmetics and Borba. You can click back to the press release to hear all about the benefits of this lip gloss. Have I ever used a nutraceutical lip gloss before? No. So I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I’ve also never used Borba’s products before, so again, not sure if the product would live up to its claims...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara
4 out of 5 Stars
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If there is one thing I think rocks about tarte, it has got to be their packaging. This mascara comes in a purple leather top and bottom. It really makes you feel like you are about to indulge in something special. Their mascara uses the “old school” wand for application, but that was just fine by me although I am totally in love with the new modable plastic wands now on the market by other brands...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Mineral Powder Bronzer
4 out of 5 Stars
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I received Hotel Heiress and was a little nervous that it would be too dark for my pale skin, however, it was the perfect pick me up to bring me from porcelin doll to a living and breathing person...Read more.


July 9, 2007

Beauty Review Roundup: Urban Apothecary Mineral Makeup

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Urban Apothecary Super Gloss
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Naturally, as a lip gloss addict, the first product from Urban Apothecary that I had to review was their Super Gloss. This super generous tube of gloss had my name written all over it when I spotted it in the box. I received both Super Nectar and Super Charming. Super Nectar is a beautiful peach color and Super Charming is light pink...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Mineral Sheer Tint
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On Urban Apothecary’s website, the description for the Mineral Sheer Tint uses the word “perfect” several times. I couldn’t agree more. This multi-mineral tinted foundation goes on smooth and leaves a beautiful dewy finish. The coverage is perfect and the foundation feels feather light...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Mineral Sheer Radiance

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My Mineral Sheer Radiance is in Dream, which is a pale pink in color. This is a product you apply as a finishing touch over your foundation or you can wear it alone when you have one of those “just rolled out of bed” moments and need to run out and do errands...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Got Blot & Make Under
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Got Blot is a transparent powder (do not be scared that it is pure white) that is appropriate for every skin tone. The powder is lightweight and no matter how many times you need to dab it on, it won’t build up like a pancake. It contains “tea tree oil to help fight acne, aloe to soothe and calm, and vitamin E to help repair skin damage.” Read more.

August 9, 2007

The Right Start For Beautiful Skin: Sircuit's Advanced Trial Set

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Start your day off right with a radiant new “aura” using Sircuit Cosmeceuticals Advanced Trial Set. Tucked into a beautiful bag, this 11pc. Collection contains all the essentials necessary to help you put your best face forward and achieve a vibrant, glowing complexion. From Jeremy Piven’s favorite Molecular Mist, to Hillary Duff’s beloved X-Trap, Sircuit has created a line of skincare not only coveted by Hollywood elite, but for men and women of all ages and skin types.

All Sircuit Cosmeceuticals products are 100% natural, paraben free and loaded with full spectrum antioxidants, vitamins, and all the nutrients necessary for healthy, beautiful skin. Designed specifically to help protect your skin's all important moisture balance and formulated with a unique 'be good to yourself' approach resulting in maximum skin protection and flawless results.

From cleansing, to hydrating, to exfoliating, the Advanced Trial Set includes everything needed to achieve fresh, visibly younger, glowing skin.

* X-Trap – Sulfate free gentle face cleanser with Shea butter.
* Molecular Mist – Intensely hydrating moisture care with Heavy Water.
* Day Care – Protective day moisturizer with Vitamin E, and Vitamin C.
* White Out – Daily under eye care with unique optical brighteners.
* Sir-Activ – Energizing Zeolite purifying scrub with cranberry extract.
* Youth Accelerator – Pumpkin pore refining mask with Vitamin A.
* Dream Weaver – Nighttime moisturizer with Epidermal Growth Factor.
* Sircuit Weapon – Vitamin C therapy for increased collagen production.
* Sircuit Addict – Firming antioxidant serum with Spin Trap.
* Liquid Crystal –Sulfate free hydrating hair bath made from arctic moss.
* Crystal Creme –Revitalizing hair conditioner enriched with Shea butter.

All Sircuit Cosmeceutical products utilize the advanced 'body friendly' Chiral Technology to separate the correct side of the active ingredient molecule and only use the side of the molecule that fits with your body’s cells. This incredible technology certainly raises the bar and proves its power by leaving the skin feeling clean, soft, balanced and pure. Try it and see for yourself.

Advanced Trial Set: $40 at www.sircuitskin.com

August 22, 2007

DermStore: The Beauty Of Luxury In Ecommerce

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DermStore understands ecommerce and has mastered the art of making online shopping simple and rewarding. DermStore is not merely a distributor of high-end skin care and cosmetic products, but a safe haven for beauty brands to sell their products and consumers to purchase in confidence.

DermStore began in 1999 with the vision of fulfilling the unmet need for a reputable dermatologist-backed online store, carrying only the finest cosmetic dermatology products. DermStore has evolved into the premier online retail destination for cosmetics and skin care products, with the goal of exceeding expectations of even the most demanding customers.

With more than 150 brands and over 4,000 products, DermStore has quickly become the leader in luxury cosmetics online. Some of the most popular product lines are Dermalogica, Jane Iredale, Pevonia Botanica, Phytomer, Sircuit Cosmeceuticals and Kinerase – however, the list expands as new luxury brands are added monthly.

Continue reading "DermStore: The Beauty Of Luxury In Ecommerce " »

September 26, 2007

New Beauty Product: Sea Allure

I came across a very interesting new product in anti-aging technology that uses a combination of Silon and sea kelp to deliver increased hydration through a skin firming patch directly applied to the wrinkles around your eyes and mouth. The product is SeaAllure and it was developed by Bio Med Sciences, a company with 20 years experience in treating wounds and scars in the burn care and plastic surgery fields. Intrigued? I know I sure am.

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The SeaAllure skin-firming patch says it is the answer to a non-invasive way to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The Silon gel on the patch provides increased hydration by reducing normal surface evaporation while holding and delivering hydrophilic nutritional molecules extracted from sea kelp to hold moisture in your skin even after the patch is removed. The increased hydration and bonding of these water-loving molecules is what firms and tightens the skin reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Mark Dillon, President of Bio Med Sciences and the creator of SeaAllure has said:

"Today's 45 year old woman doesn't really want to look twenty again; she wants to look like the best 45 year old woman she can."

This is something I completely agree with as I am at the age where a new wrinkle and line seem to appear out of no where on a daily basis. I don't want to look like I did 13 years ago, I just want to look like I have the best skin for my age now.

SeaAllure is meant to be worn at night which eliminates being yet another skin care product you have to apply to your face under your makeup during the day. Results are said to last up to one week after usage stops, but can be maintained by using SeaAllure every few days.

SeaAllure launched earlier this month, so if you have used this product, I would love to hear your thoughts on it.

You can learn more about SeaAllure or purchase their product directly by visiting them online at www.SeaAllure.com.

September 27, 2007

Star Spray: Sircuit Cosmeceuticals Molecular Mist

Sircuit Cosmeceuticals' Molecular Mist is hydrating moisture care that leaves skin feeling like it had a drink from the fountain of youth. Celebrities such as Kate Hudson, Marcia Cross, Jeremy Piven, Keith Urban and Hilary Duff have all discovered this youth enhancing miracle mist, which tends to be known as "Star Spray."

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Molecular Mist
uses “heavy water” and natural antioxidants such as Witch Hazel and Myrrh to restore skin's natural moisture barrier functions while helping to inactivate certain acne bacteria. All Sircuit Cosmeceutical formulas are specifically designed to help maintain skin's all important moisture balance resulting in maximum skin protection for a smooth, healthier look.

Molecular Mist is free of artificial colors, fragrance or preservatives and packed with these healthy nutrients:

+ Heavy Water (D2O)- This is 10% heavier than regular water so it doesn’t evaporate as quickly. It is calming, protective, and intensely hydrating.
+ Spin Trap- The most powerful antioxidant! It converts oxygen free radicals to oxygen for your respiratory cycle to be used for tissue repair.
+ Witch Hazel- An astringent with anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.
+ Myrrh- This herb has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties to help fight acne bacteria.

All Sircuit Cosmeceutical products utilize the advanced "body friendly" Chiral Technology to separate the correct side of the active ingredient molecule and only use the side of the molecule that fits with the body’s cells. This incredible technology certainly raises the bar and Molecular Mist proves its rejuvenation power by leaving skin feeling hydrated, soft, clean and calm. May be misted before or after applying make-up, or any time a little “inspiration” is needed.

October 10, 2007

RestorEyes: IQ Derma's Triple Zone Firming Eye Therapy

Restor Eyes is an intensive, anti-aging eye cream clinically proven to dramatically decrease fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles. Delectably silky, soothing, cooling with a pleasing lavender fragrance.

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* Gran-Tox is clinically proven to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by over 50% after just one ten-minute application.
* Haloxyl is a powerful, patented complex that helps prevent and diminish the appearance of dark circles.
* Dermaxyl is a patented, powerful peptide that contains Ceramide 2 and provides the latest technology in addressing the problems of deep wrinkles around the eye area.

You Have - Crow’s Feet and Wrinkles; Under-Eye Puffiness and Bags; Under-Eye Circles; Under-Eye Discoloration.

You Get - Your eyes appear younger, smoother and firmer. Reduces the appearance of dark circles and discoloration.

$85 at www.iqderma.com

December 11, 2007

SkinTensive IQ Derma Daily Face Lift Treatment

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SkinTensive is an advanced, feather-light serum utilizing some of the most cutting-edge, ingredient technologies in the marketplace today. It employs a powerful, liposome delivery system that extends both the efficacy and potency of its keynote ingredients improving the appearance of skin firmness, smoothness and structure.

GABA provides a Botox-like effect to the skin by helping relax facial wrinkles.
Marine Collagen restores elasticity and improves the structure, firmness and smoothness of the skin.
Matrixyl 3000 instantly decreases the appearance of deep wrinkles by 45%!
Hyaluronic Acid is a “moisture-magnet” that holds 1,000 times its weight resulting in a smoother, softer appearance to the skin.

You Have - Increased Dryness of Skin; Fine Lines and Wrinkles; Rough Skin Texture; Ashy, Dull-looking skin, Blotchy, Uneven Skin Tone; Loss of Firmness.
You Get - Skin that is left appearing smoothed, firmed and toned.

Find it online at www.iqderma.com

January 27, 2008

Beauty PR: Beauty Buzz- Argan Oil, The Skin Care Miracle

There's a certain oil finding its way from Morocco and into the beauty products you are using these days. What has started out as a low hum has now erupted into a full blown chatter--everyone is talking about the amazing properties of Argan Oil. Just as Ojon nuts produce the hair's elixir in the rainforest, oil from the Argan nuts have gained momentum as "Liquid Gold" for the skin.

There are two beauty brands that I am familiar with who use Argan Oil as an ingredient in their products. Kaeline Argatherapie and Solessence. Argan Oil is the heart of Kaeline's products and Solessence uses the potent oil in their skin care set. So far I have only ever used Kaeline's products with amazing results.


Some of the benefits of Argan Oil are
:

* Hydrates the skin while neutralizing free radicals.

* Reduces active blemishes and visible scars.

* Revitalizes and improves the skin's elasticity.

* Relives symptoms of eczema and psoriasis

* Reduces redness

Argan oil is also good for use in your hair and on your nails; it's even been said to help soothe rheumatism and arthritis pain. Argan Oil is virtually scentless and is not greasy as one would expect when you think of a typical oil. It's great for all skin types and will help heal acne, not cause it. Believe me, I was skeptical myself, until I tried it and haven't stopped using it since.

Have you used Argan Oil yourself? I'd love to hear how it worked for you.