Skincare – Page 46 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Switch Up Your Skin Care Routine With vbeaute, Yves Rocher, SkinCeuticals and Lumene!

Over the past couple of months I have been trying some new (to me) skin care. These products are great for women who need anti-aging benefits, including wrinkle-smoothing and 0il-controling benefits.

Vbeaute was founded by Julie Macklowe — a former fashion socialite who managed a multi-million dollar hedge fund. Searching for the perfect skincare, scientists introduced Julie to the Swiss botanical stem-cells from the Alpine Rose plant, one of the Longevity Botanicals that have developed near miraculous anti-aging abilities as they’ve adapted over centuries to the harsh conditions such as cold, UV and severe dryness in the High Alps.

“My chemists were able to infuse the original recipe with 21st century bio-chemical power that makes our exclusive vComplex a breakthrough. vComplex allows healing, anti-aging and DNA protecting abilities that track with your skin’s own cellular needs. No matter your age, climate, stress level or lifestyle, v gives your skin exactly what it craves.” The vComplex is a potent Swiss cellular concentrate based on Swiss Alpine Rose Botanical Technology (ARBT), an age-antagonist that provides antioxidant protection in relation to UV damage. Age-altering ingredients. Serious skin treatments. Innovative technology that works on a cellular level. vbeauté helps correct the sins of the past and protect the skin of your future. Prevent premature aging before it has a chance to happen; put time control in your control. V is your victory over time.

The It Kit® ($165 USD) is a customizable skincare system that houses the products you need to give your skin the treatment it deserves. An elegant gunmetal clutch, the It Kit® holds your five skincare essentials, easy to take anywhere, anytime. With a patented design, the It Kit is refillable; perfect on-the-go sizes of your favorite products are available for replenishment.

Includes Undercover Agent® (anti-wrinkle protecting serum), Rub Off™ (Gentle Facial Exfoliator), Evidence Eraser® (Gentle Foaming Cleanser), Buying Time®(Everyday Creme) and Eye Never® (Nourishing Repair Eye Crème). Learn more at www.vbeaute.com.

Yves Rocher Hydra Vegetal Instant Anti-wrinkle Moisturizer ($27, $14.85 on sale) —Targeted moisturizing for wrinkle-prone areas! The Instant Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer provides deep, intense and lasting moisture and instantly smoothes wrinkles upon application

This is for Normal to Combination Skin and the formula was tested under dermatological supervision. Includes botanical-based ingredients: maple sugar extract, organic agave sap extract, betaine, witch hazel water.

I love the instant smoothness that this gives without being sticky or uncomfortable on the skin, like some other instant wrinkle smoothers. Purchase at www.yvesrocherusa.com.

Lumene Vitamin C+ Dry Skin Comfort Radiance Cocktail ($21.99 USD) — Active ingredients from cloudberry brighten the skin, improve moisture balance, and protect against the harmful effects of the environment. Highly conditioning cranberry seed oil combines with cloudberry to help nourish and vitalise even the driest skin.

I shake this up and apply it lightly on my skin at night. The next morning, my skin is radiant and not at all greasy. Purchase this at CVS stores, www.drugstore.com.

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense ($80 USD) Designed specifically for adults, this targeted, oil-free approach to treating adult acne and signs of aging uses a 1st-to-market acid blend combining 2% dioic acid with an alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid formulation designed to prevent acne, minimize hyperpigmentation and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Salicylic acid and LHA combat blemishes; glycolic and citric acids treat fine lines, wrinkles, and roughness; and dioic acid fights acne, reduces excess sebum production and prevents hyperpigmentation that can cause skin to appear prematurely aged. This highly effective, efficient treatment is ideal for acne-prone, aging skin.

NOTE: Proven as effective as the leading prescription drugs, BenzaClin & Tretinoin, in new clinical studies. Available at www.SkinCeuticals.com

Enjoy!

Summer Skin Savers!

Skin can get too oily, blotchy from the sun or dry from sunburn during summer. So I really try to take care of my skin this time each year. Here are some amazing skin care ideas to help with your skin troubles.

BABOR CLEANSING HY-ÖL and Phytoactive Combination for Oily Skin Conditions

We’ve heard that certain things don’t mix, with oil and water being at the top of that list. In the first step toward beautiful skin, BABOR Cosmetics has a tried and true method that mixes the two perfectly. The brand successfully combines the natural cleansing power of oil and water to create a unique signature bi-phase system that ensures a mild but thorough deep-cleansing experience.

HY-ÖL ($32 USD), the brands signature product first introduced in 1955, is a gentle plant-based hydrophilic (water loving) cleansing oil formulated with pure herbal ingredients and free from preservatives. Suitable for all skin types, this cleansing oil base contains vitamin E to help trap free radicals while bisabolol calms the skin. This multi-purpose product can be used as an eye makeup remover and is meant to be paired with a Phytoactive (a water-soluble cleanser) such as the one designed for combination skin.

Phytoactive Combination ($28 USD) is the second-phase of the BABOR CLEANSING experience formulated to regulate and normalize oily and combination skin. When applied with the HY-ÖL, this herbal extract works to refine pores, regulate sebum production and calm irritation. Elderberry and witch hazel calm and soothe skin while sage and guaiazulene inhibit bacteria and inflammation.

PHASE 1: Massage three pumps of HY-ÖL onto the skin.

PHASE 2: Immediately apply two pumps of Phytoactive Combination on top and massage the two cleansers together. Add water, massage and rinse off. A wash cloth may be used, if desired.

What I think: I for one love a good cleansing oil. Some people can be afraid of using oil on the face, but it is great for all skin types (even oily). I love this system. I follow the steps above, and after a few weeks of use I find that instantly, my face is clean and refreshed without being too dry. The HY-ÖL is also wonderful by itself as an eye makeup remover! Available at www.babor.com and select spas nationwide.

Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads HiRes — Radical Skincare’s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads

Radical Skincare ‘s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads ($95 USD). Summer heat often has extreme effects on the skin, either causing dry flaky patches or nasty oily pores. Radical Skincare founders Liz and Rachel Edlich have created the Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads designed to help you remove that run-down top layer of skin, exposing soft beautiful skin. The Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads also combat summers’ effects on aging skin resulting in improved skin firmess and texture. Exclusively sold at Barneys, Radical Skincare ‘s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads are an extreme answer to and extreme problem.

What I think: This is a gentle, but effective exfoliator. I use one each night and it makes my skin glow without any irritation! This is for the person who doesn’t want a harsh exfoliator, but needs one that works! After a couple of weeks using this, my skin looks clearer and my enlarged pores look smaller! Visit www.radicalskincare.com to learn more!

Kate Somerville CytoCell P299 Oil Free Anti-Wrinkle Serum ($95 USD) — This concentrated treatment serum utilizes P299™, a scientifically advanced stem technology Polypeptide, to diminish the look of wrinkles and help fight the signs of aging by activating the natural renewal process that strengthens skin. Additional anti-aging ingredients—including Hyaluronic Acid and Marine Algae Extracts—not only even out the appearance, but also restore essential hydration. The result is a healthy-looking, radiant complexion that is unbelievably smooth.

P299™ is a scientifically proven active ingredient that helps stimulate the production of healthy skin
A blend of three advanced Peptides is designed to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles
An advanced Moisturizing Complex maintains optimal hydration levels and helps restore the skin’s natural capacity to retain moisture.
Oil-free formula is ideal for all skin types.

Results from an Independent Clinical Study include:

In just 2 weeks, 77% of women showed improved skin elasticity and firmness
In just 4 weeks, 91% of women showed a significant increase in moisture
In just 4 weeks, 77% women said their skin’s overall appearance was improved and healthier-looking
In just 4 weeks, CytoCell is proven to refine skin texture, improving the smoothness and luminosity of the skin

What I think: This is an extremely moisturizing serum, but is not heavy at all. I have been using it every night for a few weeks and really have seen a difference in my skin! The dry parts of my skin are more moisturized and my skin looks clearer and brighter. I also think it has been helping with my fine lines on my forehead. You can purchase it at www.katesomerville.com.

ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate From Avon

Avon ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate ($45 USD) — ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate,with patentedYouthGen™ Technologyis a skincare breakthrough serum that helps you look up to 10 years younger.* Genics Treatment Concentrate can be used with any skincare regimen.

Avon is the first with patentedYouthGen™ Technology– designed to stimulate the Youth Gene to help skin cells act younger.** Anew Genics Treatment Concentrate is also designed with carrot and soy extract to help stimulate a youth protein.

ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate is formulated with 2X the YouthGen™ Technology of Genics Treatment Cream and provides the following dramatic results:

INSTANTLY:

• Skin looks and feels firmer*

• Boosts skin’s moisture by up to 165%

• Expressions lines appear softer*

IN 2 WEEKS:

• Plumps the look of wrinkles*

• Dramatically reduces the appearance of discolorations*

IN 8 WEEKS:

• Look up to 10 years younger

*Based on a consumer perception study of women 45-59. **Based on in vitro testing.

What I think: This has been my morning serum for that past couple of weeks because it is very light and soaks right in. I love the instant brightness my skin receives when I use this. My skin has been looking plumper and smoother lately, too. I also love the price of this amazing serum. I highly recommend it!

To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visitwww.avon.com.

Enjoy!

Flawless Skin — My New Summer Skin Care And Makeup Products

My skin is looking pretty great this summer. It is super hot in Kansas City right now, so my skin should be gross and oily, but the fabulous new products I have been using have made it clear, smooth and very youthful!

Freeze 24-7 Skin Glacé™ Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask ($65 USD) — Nothing beats a clean feeling, from having a tidy pantry to a neat desk. Now your skin can experience that kind of calming clean with Freeze 24-7 Skin Glace Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask, a gentle deep cleaning formula that provides maximum skin purification, detoxification and hydration. With daily use, you can effectively unclog pores, remove excess oil, make-up and impurities, leaving your skin visibly soft, supple and healthy. Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask replenishes your skin’s natural moisture balance while calming red, irritated skin. Plus, it serves as a great shaving cream for men and women.

What I think: I love the fresh scent of this cleanser and how clean it makes my skin feel after use. It can also work as a quick mask for even deeper cleansing. I just apply it, let it foam up, then rub it in and rinse. Easy, fun and my skin looks clear and soft after use! Visit www.freeze247.com to learn more and purchase!

Skinnygirl Vitamin C Face Scrub ($6.99 USD) — Wash away dull, tired skin with this invigorating face scrub that instantly makes skin feel refreshed and smooth. The combination of shea butter and cranberry cleanses away dead skin to unveil a brighter, naturally radiant you.

Key Ingredients:

Soybean Oil – Rehydrates and improves skin texture
Grape Seed Oil – Moisturizes, tightens, tones, and rejuvenates skin while protecting against collagen destruction
Cranberry Fruit Extract – Soothes skin and is a natural vitamin c source to help improve circulation
Shea Butter – Deeply hydrating moisturizer

What I think: This is an unusal scrub in that the beads melt away and what’s left is an oil, so you really need to rinse it off completely. I am used to scrubs making my skin feel super clean, and this makes it feel like it was moisturized instead. That is weird, but when I looked in the mirror after use, my skin looked amazing. Really clear and smooth. This is worth a try, but is maybe not for those with very oily skin. Learn more at http://skinnygirlfaceandbody.com.

Freeze 24-7 Eye Serum ($115 USD) — Banish crow’s feet, dark circles and puffiness associated with allergies and other environmental conditions. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles beneath and around the eye area within minutes of application by bringing oxygen and nutrients to the area. Causes a cooling, toning sensation; indicating that the serum is working.

What I think: I love this serum. It is a little pricey, but it is so good. After I apply this light serum, it instantly smooths my eye area leaving it hydrated and makes my fine lines virtually disappear! It is very cooling and refreshing on the eyes, especially great for these hot summer days. Plus, the more I use it, the better my eyes look. Awesome! Visit www.freeze247.com to learn more.

Nuance Salma Hayek Smooth Smart Skin Primer ($10.99 USD) — Smooth start. Helps diminish the appearance of pores and fine lines and enhance makeup wear. Inspired by my grandmother, my products are designed to help every woman enhance the nuances that define her individual beauty. – Salma. Smooth start skin primer. White lupin seeds & safflower seed oil help improve skin’s firmness and elasticity. Pumpkin seedcake nourishes and delivers improved radiance. Soft-light diffusion technology helps create a healthy glow. Vitamin E nourishes and protects the skin. Paraben free. Fragrance free. Made in USA.

What I think: This is a good primer if you like a bit of a glow to your skin. Skin is very smooth and ready for makeup after use. Or, just wear it alone — it’s quick and easy to apply and you’re out the door! Purchase at a CVS pharmacy near you or visit www.cvs.com.

TIGI Cosmetics Mineral Tint Moisturizer ($30 USD) Wearing foundation in soaring temperatures can be a total drag. This oil-free, water-resistant tinted moisturizer is the perfect light-weight alternative for the season. Added bonus: It’s formulated with a hint of shimmer and SPF 20 so you can get that sun-kissed glow sans the rays.

What I think: Gorgeous! And perfectly matches my currently faux-tanned skin! It almost melts into my skin, and gives me such a flawless look. This can be worn with our without primer. Smooth it over skin and go! Please visit www.tigiprofessional.com to find a local salon.

Nuance Salma Hayek Flawless Mineral Cheek Trio ($12.99 USD) Triple-milled pigments in this three-in-one conditioning blush shape, highlight and define for an extra smooth, velvety finish and endless, customized looks.

What I think: This is a beautiful compact. You can color, highlight and define cheeks and all over the face. I like to brush a little of the bronzer under my jaw and under cheekbones to define. The highlighter goes on top of my cheekbones and on my brow bone. Purchase at a CVS pharmacy near you or visit www.cvs.com.

Enjoy!

Review of Skincare Brand Joey New York

I have recently tried a couple of products from Joey New York. This is a brand that was around years ago and is making a return. Their products have the trendy ingredient coconut water, which is unusual in skincare. Here is the description of the brand from their website, www.joeynewyork.com:

The return of a cult favorite, updated to deliver instant results naturally. When skincare expert Joey Chancis first launched Joey New York almost two decades ago, the collection was met with rave reviews, attracting a cult following. Now Joey returns with a revamped collection, delivering the same instant results and quick fixes in a healthy new way with the help of one of nature’s most healing, soothing ingredients: Young Green Tender Coconut Water. Renowned around the globe for its hydrating, nourishing and replenishing benefits, Young Green Tender Coconut Water is the drink of choice for those in the know. Utilizing breakthrough technology, Joey New York taps the unparalleled benefits of Young Green Tender Coconut Water, formulating every product in the new range with the nutrient-packed ingredient. Rich in vitamins, minerals and protein, the tropical water is as beneficial for the skin as it is for the body, restoring a healthy youthful glow.

The products I have tried are:

Joey New York Keep It Up ($42 USD) — For a Lifted and Tightened Look. Joey, together with her team of chemists and researchers, developed a specialized blend of luxurious spa ingredients to help counteract the look of sagging skin, pores and wrinkles on the face, neck, jowls and decolleté.

Benefits:

Helps temporarily uplift and firm the appearance of skin horizontally and vertically
Helps create a youthful look and a tight yet comfortable feeling all day

Features:

Contains Coconut Water with Indian Ginseng Extract Complex plus peptides
No parabens, no phthalates, no sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates

What I think: I have applied this all over my face and neck, and in a few minutes, my face was firmed and smoothed. It did feel a little tight for me and there was a bit of a crust around the edges of my face. The second time I tried it, I used less and it worked better. I think this is a good product for a special occasion or an evening out. I don’t think I could handle the tightness every day.

Joey New York Correct-A-Line ($36 USD) — For Face and Eyes. Joey, together with her team of chemists and researchers, developed a specialized blend of luxurious spa ingredients to help your wrinkles and pores, within minutes, appear as though they disappeared.

Benefits:

Helps give face and under eye area a temporary all-over line lift
Helps give a super matte ultimate porcelain finish
Helps skin feel fresh and bright

Features:

Contains young, tender, green Coconut Water Complex for lush hydration
Perfect for all skin types
Can be worn alone or under makeup

What I think: This is skincare and primer in one product. I love the matte, velvety finish and that this gives, plus skin is so soft and touchable! I apply it under my eyes and all over my face. I like to wear it under makeup — it provides a smooth surface for my foundation and powder.

Visit www.joeynewyork.com to learn more.

Enjoy!

Get Ready For Summer!

Happy Memorial Day! This is the unofficial start of Summer. I am writing this at 5 pm in Kansas City and it is 91 degrees. My family and I went to a lake this morning to splash in the water and then my girls went swimming again this afternoon — so it is certainly time to get the hot weather beauty products out! Here are some of my faves:

Lavanila Healthy SPF Collection: Get the complete coverage you need with Lavanila’s Healthy SPF Collection. These 100% natural products are made with a new generation of mineral sunscreens for superior UVA/UVB protection. Free of harsh chemicals, synthetic sunscreens and nano-particles, all formulas are fragrance-fee and infused with a superior complex of skin-saving vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The collection includes The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 30 Body Cream, The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 Face Cream and The Healthy Lip Screen SPF 30. Price: $16 to $38 at www.lavanila.com.

Gillette Venus Embrace — $9.99 — $11.99 USD for the refillable razor, two cartridges, and a shower pod to hold the razor in the shower and $13.49 – $14.99 USD for a four-pack cartridge refills. This razor now comes with a new purple and turquoise handle and has five, yes FIVE, blades for an perfectly smooth and close shave. I love this razor! The head swivels and hugs every curve. This would be perfect for the summer when we wear way less clothes!

tarte Amazon bronze Amazonian clay & annatto body bronzer ($37 USD) — Achieve a faux glow, naturally, with the new Amazonian clay and annatto-infused body bronzer in universally flattering Amazon bronze. This is a lovely light bronzer, but it is a bit sparkly, so I suggest to use it on legs and arms — especially at night! . Directions: Using the included body puff, blend bronzer into skin making sure to pay special attention around knees, ankles and elbows. Add one coat for a subtle bronze, or 2-3 coats for deeper color. Occasionally rinse body puff with a mild antibacterial soap and let dry overnight.

Purchase at www.tartecosmetics.com and Sephora stores.

Burt’s Bees Refreshing Lip Balm with Pink Grapefruit ($3 USD) Give your lips a kiss. This juicy lip balm is made with nutritious, tropical Pink Grapefruit Seed Oil, bursting with powerful vitamins. Refresh your lips with a sweet hint of citrus.

• Nourishes with Vitamin C and E from Pink Grapefruit Seed Oil • Delicious citrus flavor • Softens and conditions lips

Available at www.burtbees.com and at mass market retailers near you.

Skinnygirl Mommy Cool Your Feet Spray ($7.89 USD) — Cool your achingly tired feet by misting them with soothing essential ingredients such as cucumber, aloe and peppermint for a revitalizing burst of freshness. Feet feel instantly refreshed and pampered!

Key Ingredients:

Aloe – Used to moisturize and soften skin
Peppermint Oil – Energizes and cools while helping to sooth common foot irritants
Cucumber Extract – Used to sooth and relieve puffiness

Available at www.skinnygirlfaceandbodystore.com

Pantene Split End Repair Keratin Protection

Pantene Normal-Thick Hair Solutions Keratin Protection Crème ($6.29 USD) is formulated to help keep hair strong to protect hair’s natural keratin structure from damage. The result is strong, healthy hair with fewer split ends.

I can tell that this works. After a few uses, my hair has looked shinier and it does appear that I have less split ends. My teenage daughter uses this on her hair that has been damaged from straighteners and blue hair dye — and it really does make her hair look healthier.

You can purchase this at mass market retailers near you.

Enjoy!

Reviews of CEW Finalists By Fresh, M.A.C. and Neutrogena plus an Ojon Giveaway!

CEW – a nonprofit professional organization with more than 4,500 executives in the beauty, cosmetics, fragrance and related industries– has recently presented its annual Insiders’ Choice Beauty Awards, the only beauty award voted on by industry experts. The Awards celebrate the most innovative products of the year, and its list of 140 finalists include some of the most popular and effective products around. You can learn more at www.cew.org.

I have received a few products from CEW for review and one cool hair product from Ojon to giveaway (see below). The products are:

Seaberry Restorative Body Cream ($28.50 USD) is an ultra-hydrating and nourishing treatment designed to calm and relieve irritation. The moisturizing formula is fortified with omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9 and seaberry oil, a powerful antioxidant that helps to restore, protect, and soften the skin. Its creamy rich texture offers a luxurious skin-soothing experience. The ingredients in this lotion are:

– Seaberry oil, also known as seabuckthorn oil, is a powerful antioxidant rich in omegas 7 & 9 that helps to restore, protect, and soften the skin.
– Cranberry seed oil is packed with omegas 3, 6 & 9 and vitamin E to help maintain the skin’s elasticity and smoothness.
– Sal seed butter, rich in omegas 6 & 9, apricot kernel seed oil, and jojoba seed oil help to hydrate and nourish.
– Sea lavender helps to soothe and calm dry skin.

What I think: This lotion is amazing! You only need one small squirt for both hands and arms. It is cooling and so silky on. This is perfect for after shaving or spending time in the sun (with sunscreen on, of course)! It has a pretty strong herbal scent, but it’s not unpleasant.

www.fresh.com and www.sephora.com

M.A.C. False Lashes ($19 USD) Fashionably false in look, but honestly real, this mascara’s key benefits of volume and curl are matched by a dramatic end look. The unique edge: the ultra-thickening formula in combo with the plush-’em-up action of its unique double-lush brush.

What I think: I have never tried a M.A.C. mascara and was excited to try this one. I have mixed feelings about this mascara. It does add length, but does not thicken unless you use a lot of coats, then it ends up clumping. It also runs very easily, and since I have allergies, it starts running shortly after I apply it. So yay on length and boo on volume and wearability.

You can learn more and purchase at M.A.C. stores and www.maccosmetics.com.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Soothing Lotion SPF 15

Neutrogena® Ultra Gentle Soothing Lotion with SPF 15 ($15.99 USD) is a gentle daily moisturizer formulated for even the most sensitive skin. It’s clinically proven to instantly soothe and calm skin, visibly reducing redness and irritation. This uniquely developed formula with Chamomile and Feverfew makes skin less sensitive after just one week by strengthening skin’s moisture barrier. Skin is left smoother, more supple, and healthier looking with daily use. Broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen protects the skin against the sun’s damaging rays. With an allergy tested fragrance uniquely developed for sensitive skin, skin is left feeling calmer, softer and smoother.

What I think: My skin becomes more sensitive the older I get. So I was happy to try this gentle daily moisturizer. It is not greasy and really soothes my red cheeks everyday I also love the SPF 15 that is in the product. I have been applying moisturizer and SPF separately and this is much more convenient and way less heavy feeling.

You may purchase at a mass market retailer near you.

Now For the Giveaway!!!

I am giving away a Ojon Color Sustain Gloss Finishing Hair Spray ($23.50 USD) Formulated with UVA/UVB sunscreens. This weightless finishing spray for color-treated hair not only keeps styles under control, it actually promotes hair’s natural shine and radiance. And it never leaves a heavy, sticky, color-dulling residue. Pure Ojon™ oil, nature’s hair-repairing golden elixir instantly preps hair to work with Tahitian Monoi so it can enhance softness and sheen. Hair looks rich, lustrous and vibrant. It’s the perfect summer or vacation hairspray for color-treated hair.

If you would like to win this, please leave a comment on my blog. I will randomly choose a winner on Monday, June 4, 2012.

Good luck! And please, only residents of the United States and Canada.

Enjoy!

Great New Beauty Brand — Nuance Salma Hayek!

Inspired by Salma Hayek’s grandmother, a cosmetologist who developed her own homemade beauty remedies, the line features some of Salma’s favorite ingredients from around the world. Perfect for your Spring beauty regimen, the NEW Nuance Salma Hayek products below are perfect for effortless beauty and year-round overnight repair.

Products pictured from left to right:

· Advanced Hydration Smooth & Firm Perfector Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen ($19.99): This lightweight gel crème’s advanced formula helps immediately fill in fine lines and wrinkles and provides SPF protection, absorbing quickly to seal in hydration and resurface skin.

· Anti-Aging Tinted Eye Brightener ($19.99): Night owls and early risers can both benefit from this quick fix and leave those sunglasses at home! This age-defying, under-eye brightener features Caffeine, Blue Agave and Haloxyl Peptide to conceal dark circles, reduce puffiness, improve elasticity, and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

· Macadamia Nut Exfoliating Body Cleansing Scrub ($8.99): This creamy, exfoliating, cleansing butter provides superior hydration while removing dirt and oil. Macadamia Nut Oil and micro-beads gently slough off dead skin cells while Shea Butter and Coconut Oil moisturize, leaving skin clean and refreshed.

· Intense Hydration Overnight Rejuvenator ($19.99): Repair skin while you sleep with this intensive treatment, which rejuvenates and nourishes dry, mature and sun-damaged skin! Anti-inflammatory Royal Jelly, Tepezcohuite and Camapu minimize signs of aging while hydrating and firming.

· Overnight Time-Release Retinol Capsules ($21.99): Restore elasticity and radiance with these technologically-advanced capsules, utilizing Retinol (pure Vitamin A) to enhance elasticity, minimize fine lines and even tone and texture. Toss these tiny, potent capsules in your travel bag for an on-the-go fix!

· Lift & Shine Volumizing Mousse ($9.99): Get your “body” noticed with this volumizer! The non-sticky formula of this lightweight mousse features polymers and humectants to add volume and shine, thickening fine, limp hair and fighting frizz.

· Style & Finish Firm Hold Hairspray ($9.99): This strong-hold hairspray is formulated with the latest technology to deliver all-day style and control with flexible hold, keeping hair styled even in heat and humidity.

Right now I am particularly loving the Overnight Time-Release Retinol Capsules and the Anti-Aging Tinted Eye Brightener. The capsules are a gel that when applied, leave skin smooth and soft. They also have a matte finish, which although not so important at night, I really love.

The eye brightener is a quick step after concealer, that brightens eyes and minimizes the look of wrinkles. Also helps with my morning puffiness!

These products are all affordable and easily accessible at your local CVS/pharmacy. Enjoy!

dr. brandt pores no more anti-aging mattifying lotion

pores no more anti-aging mattifying lotion ($60 USD 1.7 oz) — An apple a day keeps the linesaway.” This lightweight lotion formulated with apple stem cells to help delay the natural signs of aging by maintaining the longevity and activity of stem cells in the skin. Simultaneously, retinol stimulates new cell turnover and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Brandt’s multi-tasking formula provides the best of both worlds, delivering anti-aging and pore minimizing/mattifying benefits.

oil-free
helps delay the natural signs of aging by maintaining the longevity & activity of stem cells in the skin
stimulates new cell turnover, improving the appearance of lines & wrinkle
increases water reserves, limits water loss & improves lipid barrier function to balance moisture levels

What I think: I like this lotion. It is very lightweight and quickly sinks into the skin once applied. It does give a matte finish, but if I apply a lotion afterwards, that could negate the mattifying effect.

I also notice that after I apply this, my skin does look smoother and my pores appear a bit smaller. I love retinol, it is a great antidote to aging skin! But, it is also gentle and can be used up to twice a day.

You can learn more at www.drbrandtskincare.com and www.sephora.com.

Enjoy!

Nip + Fab Clean Fix Wipes

Total Beauty Has recently announced their 2012 Beauty Award Winners. The winner for editor’s choice “Best Makeup Remover” was none other than NIP + FAB Clean Fix Wipes ($5.95 USD, for 25)!

Use these cleaning wipes from Nip + Fab daily to remove dirt and other damaging substances from your face. The gentle wipes work well on all skin types, and they come in a convenient pack that seals up after you are done. Infused with ginseng, aloe + marshmallow for your soft skin cleaning fix on the go! Perfect for the car, gym, travel, or makeup bag.

What I think: These are probably the softest makeup remover wipes I have tried. They feel like real cloth. They are effective in removing all makeup and leave skin clean and soft. Awesome and affordable!

Available exclusively at Target stores nationwide and online atwww.target.com. More information about NIP + FAB and the other skin and bodycare products they carry visit http://www.nipandfab.com.

New Launches From St. Ives

I love finding affordable skincare that is readily available at mass market retailers. I have always enjoyed St. Ives Apricot Scrub, so was excited to try two new products — the Scrub-Free Exfoliating Pads and the Naturally Smooth Hand Cream.

NEW St. Ives Scrub-Free Exfoliating Pads

· First mass-market brand exfoliating pads with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

· Exfoliates to reveal smoother, younger-looking skin in just 7 days

· Formulated with 100 percent natural lactic acid

· Available at select mass retailers, drugstores and supermarkets nationwide for $4.99 (suggested retail price)

This is a gentle way to scrub your face. I think it is perfect for women who are a little older and need exfoliation, but cannot not use a harsher scrub. My skin is smooth after use. It smells great, too! Fresh and citrusy. I suggest to use it a few time a week until your skin gets use to it.

NEW St. Ives Naturally Smooth Hand Cream

· Exfoliates and improves the appearance of rough, uneven skin in just 7 days

· 100 percent natural moisturizers help it absorb quickly into skin

· Formulated with natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

· Available at Target stores nationwide for $2.99 (suggested retail price)

I am really loving this hand cream. It smells fantastically fruity and smooths hands instantly, making them look much younger! And for $2.99 — what a deal! I would suggest purchasing a bunch of these to keep in your purse, at your desk, on your nightstand. Great price and product.

Enjoy these great deals!