Results tagged “skincare”

I’ll confess, I’m a bit of a BB Cream addict. Take a peek in my vanity and you’ll find no less than 6 different kinds of BB Creams. Some work better than others, but they all make it into my daily skincare routine on a regular basis. The latest to hit my arsenal is the new Revlon Photoready BB Cream skin perfector with SPF 30. Like others in this product category, it’s a lightweight multi-benefit Beauty Balm that combines skincare and makeup into one step.

I’ve been using this product every day for 2 weeks and can honestly say it’s one of the best I’ve tried. The consistency isn’t too thick, which makes it perfect for summer, and it isn’t too thin either, so it provides the perfect amount of moisturizing benefits and coverage I need. The light medium tone blends perfectly with my skin, providing virtually invisible, natural coverage. And unlike many other BB Creams which offer little or no sun protection, Revlon Photoready contains SPF 30, which is essential all year round and especially during the summer months.

One of the reasons I am such a fan of BB Creams, is that they have moisturizers and primers built into the product, something that my dry skin needs desperately. In the winter, I typically apply BB Cream on top of a daily moisturizer for added hydration, but in the warmer months, I don’t need any additional products. I simply apply the cream to damp skin to lock in moisture and to assist with even distribution. I add more product to any areas that need additional coverage, so I can often skip concealer.

Along with the BB Cream, I’m also testing out the new Revlon Lash Potion mascara. The product contains a potion “with strengthening proteins that drench lashes for volume” and a triple-groove wand that prevents clumps while lengthening lashes. I’m lucky enough to have fairly long lashes, and this mascara definitely delivers when it comes to thickening and avoiding clumps.

Both of these products have found a permanent place in my makeup kit this summer.

Revlon believes there is more than one way for women to be seen. Revlon’s heritage as a color authority and its suite of innovative products inspires women around the world to expressthemselves through beauty each and every day.

Truth be told, I haven’t been using foundation since I fell for BB cream. But if I hadn’t already switched from foundation, I would totally be ditching it for Almay’s Smart Shade CC Cream Complexion Corrector. Their CC cream provides light to medium coverage, a bit more than other CC creams on the market which is good news for those with uneven skin tone and light redness. Formulated to correct and even skin texture over time, Almay reports that 70% of users in a clinical trial had visible improvements in the clarity and texture in their skin after two weeks of use. A product that works even when you’re not wearing it? I’m in. 

Found in the fruit of the marula tree in southern African and parts of West Africa, marula oil has been used for thousands of years for moisturizing, cooking, and even as a leather treatment. Often referred to as a ‘miracle oil’, this beauty elixir is packed with omega fatty acids, Vitamin E, and antioxidants. 

We have a secret weapon. On days when our eyes are looking a little worse for wear, we reach for our tube of Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer. Why this innocent little blue tube? Well, a few important reasons:

1) It’s incredibly cooling.
2) It’s formulated with caffeine to reduce puffiness in the eye area.
3) The tube contains a thick stick which you rub into the skin—a different kind of eye treatment than any other we’ve used.
4) The formula isn’t greasy or sticky.

In short? This product really works to make your eyes look more youthful and rejuvenated. And what’s wrong with that?

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer retails for $20 at kiehls.com.

On a recent perusal of the skincare section at Sephora, one type of product kept popping up: eye gels. It seems like such an obvious skincare must-have, and yet, for some reason, we never had any in our arsenal until now! Below, the ones we recommend you check out immediately (if not sooner).

Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel
First of all, it’s blue, which we just think is fun and different. But what we really love? It’s extremely cooling (and not just the second you apply, but for a long while afterward), and it has the consistency of a cream. It’s just a bonus that it perks up our tired eyes in no time.
$38 at sephora.com

Philosophy Eyes Wide Open
This unassuming little while tube packs a major punch. It smooths and depuffs skin instantly, not to mention it has a delightful cooling quality.
$30 at beauty.com

Bliss Baggage Handler Eye Gel
We love every Bliss product just for the names alone! And this one definitely does what it says—it makes all that under-eye baggage just disappear, thanks to cucumber extract and algae extract! Especially great for long flights.
$28 at blissworld.com

Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel
The name alone makes you know it’s going to make your under-eye area look and feel its best, wouldn’t you agree? Plus, it smells like refreshing cucumbers and has an innovative pump design.
$14.99 at zappos.com

The Art of Shaving Eye Gel
The chamomile scent is utterly relaxing, which makes this perfect right before bed (why not get the under-eye bags under control while you’re getting your beauty rest, right?).
$28 at barneys.com

Peter Thomas Roth Power K Eye Rescue
Definitely the most science project-like of the bunch! This eye gel is formulated with Co-Q-10 in the appearance of caviar-like beads, which smooth into the skin upon impact and protect the eye area from aging.
$100 at sephora.com

Want to feel like you’re conducting a science experiment with your skincare … with truly “fabulous” results? Then you simply must try the Bliss Fabulous Skin-Reviving Rubberizing Mask.

We’ve long been fans of this mask, and in fact we request it every time we get a facial at any Bliss spa. Not only does it make skin glow and feel like silk, but it just feels so cool—and cooling!—upon our skin. The texture really is like rubber, which is like no other mask we’ve tried. It hardens but somehow still feels soft and pliable. Plus, it’s super easy to remove after about 15 minutes.

Intrigued? Want to know how it works in the comfort of your own home? You simply open one of the packets and dump its contents into a bowl. Fill the included measuring cup with water, pour it into the bowl and then use one of the enclosed spatulas to mix the concoction into a pale purple paste. Apply immediately and liberally to the skin, wait the aforementioned 15 minutes, and peel off. Voila! Soft, smooth skin.

We just think this mask is fun and ingenious—and it’s taking all of our willpower not to use it every single day!

The Bliss Fabulous Skin-Reviving Rubberizing Mask is $38 for a pack of 6 at sephora.com.

Looking for a serum to really make your skin look and feel its absolute best? Introducing the new First Aid Beauty Dual Repair Power Serum.

We’ve long been fans of this niche skincare line, not only for the simple yet chic packaging but for the fact that the products really and truly WORK. Every product in the line just makes skin glow. And the same is definitely true for the newest serum to hit First Aid Beauty’s product lineup.

This serum works to improve your overall skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. All three products in the line (the serum, plus a moisturizer and an eye cream) rely on a breakthrough combination of ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier and reduce skin sensitivity … which basically means your skin ends up looking incredible! Two pumps of the serum are enough to cover your entire face, which we recommend doing each morning before following with moisturizer and eye cream (either from this range or others of your own choosing, of course). You’ll be left with healthy, gorgeous skin.

And the best part? People really will think you look younger in a matter of days! We promise.

First Aid Beauty Dual Repair Power Serum retails for $48 at sephora.com.

While we normally err on the side of heavier moisturizers once winter temperatures abound, we find ourselves making an exception as of late. Why? Because gel cream moisturizers are soothing, calming AND nourishing all at once! And, while we do recommend using a heavier moisturizer at night, these five will get you through every day looking and feeling your absolute best.

Garnier Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream For Dry Skin
An absolute miracle worker—and it’s under $10! We love the pink hue of the moisturizer, but what we really love? The fact that it erases all dryness in an instant, even after a long flight.
$8.49 at drugstore.com

Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Regenerator Moisturizing Gel-Cream
Another pink option! This one smells divine and works to reduce everything from wrinkles to dullness. Definitely a miracle worker!
$68 at nordstrom.com

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief
The first gel cream we ever used … and still the one we turn to in a pinch! It’s oil-free and sinks right into skin without any greasy residue. Definitely a must have for your skincare arsenal.
$37-$49.50 at clinique.com

Philosophy Take A Deep Breath
Need to relax … or does your skin, at least? Well, then reach for this moisturizer, which diffuses oxygen to the skin for an instant pep me up.
$34 at beauty.com

Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Water-Sure Gel
This is the latest addition to our gel cream moisturizer loves. It’s cooling and refreshing, we love the fun green hue, and it doesn’t feel sticky at all upon the skin.
$38 at sephora.com

Want your skin to be soft and smooth—and looking like winter hasn’t arrived? Then you need the JUARA Avocado Banana Moisture Mask in your arsenal, stat.

Ten minutes with this mask and your skin will go from flaky and dehydrated to moisturized and nourished. We tried it this week, when our skin was really acting up—dryness, redness, the works—and immediately after removing the mask, we noticed a dramatic difference! Gone were the dry patches and the dehydration. Now our skin is so supple and smooth, we just can’t believe it!

This mask hardens slightly upon application, but not so much that your face will feel like it’s cracking. We start to feel a bit claustrophobic with masks like that, and this did nothing of the sort. It also has a wonderfully rich, whipped consistency and smells delicious.

The JUARA Avocado Banana Moisture Mask retails for $35 at juaraskincare.com.

Like most women hovering around age 40, we begin to see noticeable changes in our skin. Whether it’s fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues, loss of tone, sun damage or dry skin, it’s a fact that our skin just isn’t the same as it was when we were 20. Accordingly, it makes perfect sense that our skincare regime should evolve as we age — what works for a 20-year-old may not be enough for a 40-year-old. Here are some tips on how to tailor your skincare routine to your age.

Age 20

Sun Protection — The most important thing you can do for your skin at any age is to use sun protection. Any tanning or burning you do now will affect your skin later in life. So while a tan may make you look good for the moment, you’ll regret the sun exposure later in life, I promise you. Stick to sunless tanners and wear SPF 30 or more every single day — yes, even in the winter. Be sure to protect not only your face, but your neck, chest and hands.

Individualized Skincare — Depending on the needs of your skin, use products that address any issues you may face including acne and dry or oily skin. Cleansers, moisturizers, and acne treatments should be part of your daily routine.

Age 30

Continue to use your daily sun protection and acne products if needed. In addition, add the following:

Exfoliate & Cleanse — Choose an exfoliating cleanser or use a cleansing brush to exfoliate regularly. Be sure to use a gentle, non-drying cleanser.

Moisturizer — If you’re not already using a daytime and nighttime moisturizer, start now as skin begins to lose some of its natural moisture.

Eye Cream — Fine lines begin to form in our 30s, so begin adding an anti-aging eye cream to your morning and evening routine.

Anti-Aging Serums/Creams — It’s never too early to start tackling the aging process. Look for products that contain retinoids to improve skin’s texture and tone, and Vitamin C to fight free radicals.

Skin Brighteners — Pregnancy and sun damage can cause melasma, discoloration, or pigmentation issues, so look for a skin brightener if needed.

Age 40

Continue to use your daily sun protection and acne products or skin brighteners if needed, along with your exfoliator and gentle cleanser.

Anti-Aging Moisturizer — Women in their 40s will begin to see a loss of skin tone, increased dryness, and fine lines and/or wrinkles, so an anti-aging moisturizer is essential for day and night. Look for ingredients that build collagen (like peptides and retinoids) and retain moisture (like hyaluronic acid).

Anti-Aging Regime — In addition to moisturizers, anti-aging eye creams and serums are important.

Age 50+

Continue to use your daily sun protection, anti-aging regime, eye creams, and serums, and acne products or skin brighteners if needed, along with your exfoliator and gentle cleanser.

Moisturizers — Dry skin and sagging are our biggest concerns at this age. Avoid any products that tend to dry out skin and keep skin well hydrated day and night. A richer moisturizer and ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help.

Retinoids — Whether as a separate treatment or as an ingredient in moisturizers or serums, a retinoid like retinol will help stimulate collagen and improve skin’s tone and texture to minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

As a leader in skincare with an eye for emerging trends, Olay is bringing the first-ever mass market CC line of products to the United States {Canada} beginning in October 2012. CC, or Color & Correct, Creams have started to emerge in Asia as a new category and are designed for women who love BB Creams for their ability to provide a quick, flawless finish but are seeking skincare solutions that deliver long-term benefits.

The Olay Total Effects CC Tone Correcting UV Moisturizers fight seven signs of aging, while also providing immediate color correction with tinted formulas that include UV protection and tone correction over time. The multiple, must-have instant and long-term benefits leave skin luminous and even-toned with the reduced appearance of discolorations, fine lines and wrinkles.

We all have it. It’s just that no one likes to talk about it. What are we talking about, you may ask? Here’s the answer, plain and simple … shine. Sometimes our faces just get a little too oily or greasy, and the residue can make us look shiny in pictures (or, you know, in real life). That’s where Neutrogena Deep Clean Long-Last Shine Control Blotting Sheets come in handy.

We’ve tried many a blotting linen in our day, and these definitely rank among our favorites. We love the silky, almost rubber-like texture of each sheet—they’re so much different than all the thin paper versions we’ve tried before. And, because of the different texture, they really seem to soak up all the excess moisture on our skin instantly!

Where we’ve needed two or even three linens with other brands, one does the job more than adequately in this case. We watched all of the unsightly grease slide right off our face and onto one sheet—with more than a little excitement, if we’re being completely honest.

After using one of these sheets, our skin feels so much cleaner and more matte than before. And, the best part is, there’s no shine left in sight!

Neutrogena Deep Clean Long-Last Shine Control Blotting Sheets are $5.99 for a pack of 50 sheets at drugstore.com.

If you can only ask for one beauty gift this season (perish the thought!), make it a good one. And we’re standing behind the Ole Henriksen Celebrate The Truth Kit. This kit has every product from the Ole Henriksen line that we’re completely obsessed with. It comes with the following products:

Truth Serum Collagen Booster
Truth Creme Advanced Hydration
Truth Is In The Eyes Eye Peel Concentrate
Truth To Go Wipes

And they all come presented in a vibrant orange travel pouch!

Plus, every product in the Truth line smells absolutely fantastic. They’re formulated with Vitamin C to brighten and hydrate the skin, and they smell just like oranges! We’ve long been using every product in this kit and we can vouch for their utter amazingness.

The Ole Henriksen Celebrate The Truth Kit retails for $60 at sephora.com.

If your skin is feeling drier than the Sahara, it’s time for a cleanser that will whip it back into shape. Enter CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.

When we first started using this cleanser, our skin was in dire straits. It was dry, dehydrated, flaking in a million places … in layman’s terms, it was in really bad shape. So when our facialist recommended this cleanser to us, we were honestly willing to try anything to make the dryness disappear!

And disappear it did—in a matter of days, our skin was fresh, smooth and softer than a baby’s you know what. This cleanser really does restore moisture to the skin, making it look and feel its absolute best. Even if you’re flying a lot, not drinking enough water, whatever your deal may be … your skin doesn’t have to tell anyone anymore. Color us impressed.

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser retails for $13.49 at walgreens.com.

Summer may be over (cue the crying now), but it’s still hot, humid and sticky outside. And you know what that means? We’ll still be spending a whole lot of time on the beach or walking around outside! So, as a result, we need our trusty La Prairie Ultra Protection Stick by our side.

We love this stick because it protects anywhere you want to roll it! Lips, nose, ears, under the eyes, the eyelids, even the backs of your knees … you name it, you can rub it there! We especially love it as a lip balm, since it moisturizes and conditions the lips and lasts for hours—and, since we’re addicted to lip balm, this makes us happy!

Plus, it’s formulated with SPF 40. How great is that?

La Prairie Ultra Protection Stick retails for $70 at neimanmarcus.com.

For total luxury in your skincare routine, look no further than by Terry Gelee de Rose. Now, this moisturizer has quite the extravagant price tag—$93, to be exact. Not the least expensive one around, but definitely not the most! (Think La Mer, Estee Lauder…) And on days (or weeks, or months, or years, or … okay, you get the point) when you need a little perk-up, this moisturizer definitely does the trick.

For starters, it smells like—you guessed it—roses. The scent is heady but not cloying or overpowering, so you can still wear scented body lotion or perfume and not feel like they’re competing for attention. But the scent of this moisturizer is just so divine—you’ll be hard-pressed to find another one that smells this fantastic!

And, of course, it makes skin look dewy, glowy and otherwise perfect. The combination of three roses detoxify, soothe and enhance the skin in a gel-cream texture that’s whipped, light and fluffy. Immediately upon application, skin is hydrated and nourished, even if dryness lurks underneath.

In short? We’re in love.

by Terry Gelee de Rose retails for $93 at beauty.com.

You know those mornings when you just don’t want to get out of bed … and it’s not because you haven’t gotten a lot of sleep, but because you don’t want anyone to see the bags and puffiness under your eyes? That’s where the Simple Revitalizing Eye Roll-On comes in handy.

Recently, I’ve had a major problem sleeping, and this little tube has become my eyes’ saving grace! Gone is the puffiness, gone are the dark circles, gone are the huge bags … and the relief is instantaneous. Really, the moment I roll the cooling silver applicator under my eyes, I look well-rested and refreshed!

This is thanks to ingredients like Pro-Vitamin B5 (which softens and smooths skin), cucumber extract (which revitalizes skin), and glycerin (which hydrates and nourishes the skin). It’s a bonus that there are no harsh dyes or chemicals added. And the silver ball applicator just feels so good against the skin, especially in hot and humid temperatures!

Plus, I was already a fan of the brand’s cleansing wipes, so discovering this baby seemed like a natural evolution for my skincare routine!

Simple Revitalizing Eye Roll-On retails for $10.99 at drugstore.com.

Several months ago I found these red patches under my eyes. I have sensitive, fair skin and I blush easily, so I figured it was a reaction of sorts. After being treated like a human lab rat by a dermatologist, I still had no answers. I wasted many an hour googling and thought I had nailed it to a sensitivity to SLS (sodium laureth sulfate), so I cut all those from my regiment and those patches didn’t seem to go away. 

Strangely, I’m normally not a fan of scented lotion. I’m not even an everyday perfume wearer, but a lot of hand creams and moisturizers are scented so heavily that I feel like they overpower my fragrance, my body lotion and just my actual being. Not so with The Soap & Paper Factory Jasmine Hand Cream.

I love so many things about this hand cream. First of all, the packaging is absolutely gorgeous. I love the flowers and butterflies in vibrant colors adoring both the outer box and the actual lotion tube. They brighten up the nightstand, the coffee table, my purse … anywhere I choose to bring this hand cream, which, recently, is everywhere!

But it’s the hand cream itself that really takes the cake. It’s light, lush and non-greasy and immediately sinks into the skin. The jasmine scent is gloriously fragrant but somehow not overpowering, so it just makes my skin smell subtly floral and mysteriously sexy. Only a small amount is needed to immediately transform skin into a soft, smooth expanse, even if it’s previously been dry and cracking.

Is there anything not to love about this luxurious hand cream? My answer is certainly no.

The Soap & Paper Factory Jasmine Hand Cream retails for $18 at soapandpaperfactory.com.