Tag: Health

Hand And Nail Products From Julep Keep Hands Soft And Youthful

Unfortunately, hands are one of the easiest way to tell a person’s age.  I moisturize and apply sunscreen to my hands daily to keep them looking young. You can keep your hands smooth and youthful through fall with these hydrating products by Julep.

Julep Facial for Hands ($32.00 UAS) Potent glycolic acid combined with apricot seeds provides powerful double exfoliation that leaves your hands feeling noticeably softer and looking younger after just one use.  Naturally scented with orange oil for a refreshing aromatherapy boost with each use.   This product is perfect for anyone battling dry, dull skin, age spots and fine lines on your hands.

Julep Everyday SPF30 Hand Cream (unscented) ($28.00 USD) — was created to protect your hands from sun-damage.  Facial creams and foundation all have SPF built-in, and now your hand cream can too.  Our FDA approved Everyday SPF was specially designed to protect your hands from UVA and UVB sun-damage while promoting skin renewal and penetrating hydration.

Julep Essential Cuticle Oil ($18.00 USD) — All-natural blend of essential oils and Vitamin E hydrates and strengthens nails and cuticles. Extends the life of your manicure while leaving a glossy sheen. Use daily to soften rough cuticles and strengthen nails. The convenient roller-ball application allows you to take your Julep Essential Cuticle Oil everywhere you go.

What I think:  With regular use, these salon-quality products will help transform hands.  I like glycolic scrubs because they smooth hands two ways — with the scrubbing beads and the glycolic acid.  This really helps aging skin.  The hand cream has a great SPF and is not greasy.  My favorite products is the cuticle oil.  The little bottle is cute and portable and it smells fresh and herbal. They all work well on dry hands and nails.

Visit www.julep.com to learn more and purchase.  Enjoy!

Breakthrough Mascaras by It Cosmetics, Hourglass Cosmetics and CoverGirl

I love, love, love mascara!  Here are three amazing new ones:

It Cosmetics Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Volumizing Mascara Duo ($29.00 USD) — What is it: Developed with leading plastic surgeons, Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Treatment Mascara revolutionizes and takes the place of five products–volumizing mascara; conditioning, hydrating lash primer; lash-enhancing serum; lash tint; and a lash comb/curler! Hello Lashes offers the blackest of black color that lasts and doesn’t flake or fade. The triple-brush lengthens, curls, and separates lashes while the innovative Magic Wand lash ball detailer tip is designed to reach every last inner and outer corner lash.

What I think:  An amazing mascara that lengthens, curls and thickens lashes.  The unique feature of this mascara is the ball on the end that reaches inner and outer lashes plus when used straight up, really lengthens upper and lower lashes.  My little lashes look so long that they almost reach my eyebrows!  I also have to wait for my mascara to dry before  I put my glasses on or it smears!  Visit www.qvc.com to purchase.

Hourglass Film Noir Lash Lacquer ($28.00 USD) — An ultra-glossy, inky black top coat for lashes that creates length,
volume, and showstopping shine.  Formulated for application on top of mascara, Film Noir Lash Lacquer transitions your eyes from work day to cocktail hour, or vamps up your look for an extra kick of drama any time you desire. It features a unique brush applicator and latex-like formula that fans lashes out to sensational proportions.

Before applying, make sure there’s just enough product lightly coating the applicator brush, and wipe any excess onto the inside edge of the tube. Using the brush applicator, paint lacquer onto the bottom and top lashes in short, even strokes. Apply lacquer to the tips of the outer corners of top lashes only for a more natural look.

What I think:  At first I thought this product wouldn’t be useful — an extra step to make lashes look better?  I was skeptical. But after I “painted” the lacquer on my lashes, they were longer, shiny and super black! Perfect for a night out!  Visit www.hourglasscosmetics.com or www.sephora.com to learn more.

CoverGirl NatureLuxe Mousse Mascara ($8.49 USD) gives you stunning volume while leaving your lashes light and lifted!

The breakthrough mousse formula exchanges specific synthetic polymers with natural beeswax and tapioca to help make it 20% lighter than the most expensive mascara* Hypoallergenic. Removes easily with soap and water. Ophthalmologically tested.

What I think:  Wow!  It is difficult to find a natural mascara that gives good volume — but this one certainly does. It is also perfect for contact lens wearers.  Plus, very affordable.  Visit www.covergirl.com to learn more and purchase at mass market retailers.  Enjoy!

Kiss My Face Oral Care Value Packs

Achieving a healthy and beautiful smile doesn’t haveto come at a steep price, thanks to Kiss My Face’s oral care value packs.  Kiss My Face is now offering its naturally fresh toothpaste  in value packs.  For a beautiful smile, customers can buy two3.4 oz tubes of toothpaste for $8.99 (usually $5.99 per tube)).  Each deal is sure to keep teeth bright, happy and healthy!

Kiss My Face Whitening and Triple Action Toothpaste Value Packs Xylitol and Aloe Vera gel promote a healthy smile.  Formulas are free of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, parabens and artificial flavors and colors.

·        Whitening toothpaste contains Olive Leaf Extract, Peppermint Oil and Icelandic Moss, a natural whitening agent

·        Triple Action toothpaste contains Herbal Extract, Olive Leaf Extract and Tea Tree oil to cleanse and act as an antiseptic; it incorporates Co Q10 to promote healthy gums

The Kiss My Face Toothpaste Value Packs are available starting for $8.99 at www.KissMyFace.com.

Color Your Hair Safely With Surya Brasil Henna Cream

Surya Brasil Henna Cream ($11.99 USD) is renowned as the #1 selling semi-permanent hair coloring system in Brazil.  It comes in 15 exciting shades that will last up to seven to ten washes!

Henna Cream is touted as the safest way to color your hair and can be used on chemically treated and color treated hair. Packed with essential oils, this Henna Cream will keep your hair structure intact as it locks in moisture and leaves your hair smelling deliciously fresh!

What I think:  The first thing I noticed when I colored my hair was the scent.  It is light and herbal, but not chemical smelling AT ALL.  Seriously.  I also liked how easy it was to use.  There was no combining products — this is just one liquid that you apply with gloves that are included.  It took a little bit to get used to because it dripped a bit, but once you rub it in, it stays put.  The product also includes a plastic hair cap to use while you are waiting for the color to work.  Nice!

My results were pretty good.  The color is great.  I use dark brown which matched my natural color.  It covered well, but a few of my grays are still showing.  But, for a natural hair color, it works very well.

Availability: Whole Foods Market nationwide.  Enjoy!

As Summer Winds Down, Keep Your Skin Healthy With Natural Products From The Vitamin Shoppe

I love that you can use natural products, and get great results for your skin at the same time.  Win, win! Try one of the following products — you will love them!

Vitamin C W/Coq10 Facial Cleanser from Beauty Without Cruelty ($11.99 USD) — This wonderful softening facial cleanser contains Organic aloe vera gel, organic botanical infusion (chamomile, calendula, lavender), Co-enzyme Q10 and many other natural ingredients.  It does not contain parabens, animal ingredients and it is not tested on animals.

Kiss My Face Face Factor Spf 30 For Face and Neck ($11.99 USD) — Kiss My Face combines Oat Protein and Oat Beta Glucan, a dynamic duo of patented ingredients that reduce irritation and inflammation and fight against damaging free radicals as they moisturize your skin. This contains UVA/UVB Protection, it is water-resistant and is 100% paraben free.

Vanilla Honey Spf 15 Lip Balm by Kiss My Face ($3.29 USD) — Smooth, soothe and protect chapped lips organically with this 72% organic treatment. It works quickly to return your lips to a happy state with SPF 15 and tasty vanilla honey flavor. This product contains no animal ingredients, artificial colors, or unnecessary  chemicals and was not tested on animals.

One With Nature’s Shea Body Wash ($8.49 USD) — With a sweet and soothing scent, this ultra moisturizing body wash provides a thick, rich lather to gently cleanse the skin.  Shea butter and natural minerals, muds and salt of the Dead Sea Basin moisturize your skin and leave it feeling clean, healthy and rejuvenated.

100% Pure Cosmetics Honey Almond Body Scrub ($22.99 USD)  Juicy and invigorating body scrub smoothes away bumps and flakes for incredibly silky soft skin.  Fruit oils deeply moisturize while anti-aging vitamins and antioxidants nourish.  Fruit acids brighten gently for a healthy glow.  No harsh detergents, no synthetic chemicals, no artificial fragrances or any other toxins that can strip, irritate or dehydrate your delicate skin.  Truly, 100% Pure.

All products are available for purchase at The Vitamin Shoppe or at http://www.vitaminshoppe.com.

Need To Demolish Deep Wrinkles? Try Avon ANEW Platinum!

If you are over 60 or are experiencing advanced signs of aging, Avon has released the perfect skincare line for you — ANEW Platinum.   This line claims to help lift the skin and reduce the look of deep wrinkles.  It includes cleanser, day and night creams, a serum and an eye and lip cream.  Everything you need for your skin to look and feel better as it matures.  Here are a couple of products I tested:

ANEW PLATINUM Day Cream SPF 25 ($38.00 USD) — Claims to dramatically reduce the look of deep wrinkles and visibly reshapes the neck for a more youthful look.* Formulated with patented Paxillium Technology to help restore youthful cell shape, while Radiescent Microspheres help to immediately counteract dullness and help restore radiant skin. 92% agree it restores youthful color and radiance to skin.** In 1 day, skin of the delicate neck area looks firmed and feels lifted and supported all day. In 4 weeks, 74% agree it dramatically reduces the look of deep wrinkles and visibly reshapes neck for a more youthful look.** To use: In the morning, smooth evenly over cleansed face and neck. 1.7 fl. oz*Over a 4 week time period. **Based on women who expressed an opinion in a consumer-perception study.

ANEW PLATINUM Eye & Lip Cream ($36.00 USD) — The 1st eye & lip treatment formulated with Paxillium Technology to boost the production of Paxillin by 60% to help restore youthful cell shape. 77% saw more youthful definition in the eye & lip areas.* .5 fl. oz.

For eyes:  In 3 days, 88% agree skin around eye area looks and feels more elastic. In 2 weeks, 87% agree it smoothes the look of thin, wrinkled skin on eyelids.*

For lips: In 3 days, fills in the appearance of deep lines above and below lips.** In 2 weeks, 77% agree contour and shape of lips is visibly improved.*

Dual-tip precision applicator – rounded silvery tip helps cool and refresh eye area; flat tip evenly applies cream on and around lips.

*Based on women who expressed an opinion in a consumer-perception study. **Based on in-vitro testing on 3D reconstructed skin.

While I am not the target audience for these products, I found them soothing and extremely moisturizing.  I love that the day cream has an SPF of 25 — important for women of all ages.  The applicator for the eye and lip cream is so smart — I apply the product with the flat end and smooth it around my eyes or lips with the silver ball.

I do think that this would be a perfect — and fairly affordable — line for those over 60. Visit www.shop.avon.com to purchase.  Enjoy!

Treat Your Skin With The New Anti-Aging Powerhouse Algenist

Being FORTY (something), flirty and fabulous, I know the importance of reviewing new anti-aging skincare for my wonderful audience.  I have recently tested the new amazing biotechnical skincare line Algenist.  What does Algenist claim:

Born out of an unexpected biotechnology discovery, scientists discovered Alguronic Acid – a powerful compound responsible for regenerating and protecting the microalgae cell.  As the key ingredient in all Algenist products, Alguronic Acid boosts skin elasticity and hydration, decreases melanin (skin pigmentation) and inflamed cells, as well as protect the skin against UV-induced DNA damage.

This line currently include four skincare products.  They are:

Concentrated Reconstructing Serum ($95.00 USD) — A smooth, advanced anti-aging serum formulated with a high concentration of the revolutionary ingredient Alguronic Acid to rebuild skin firmness and elasticity while restoring skin density and elasticity. Wrinkles are minimized and skin radiance is boosted.

Regenerative Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($90.00 2 fl. oz, s135.00 4 fl. oz) — A luxurious, moisturizing and nourishing anti-aging cream formulated with the revolutionary anti-aging ingredient Alguronic Acid to nourish and restore skin moisture while rebuilding firmness and elasticity. The appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and pores is minimized. The skin is regenerated.

Regenerative Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20 ($90.00 USD) — A fast-absorbing, moisturizing, and protective anti-aging SPF cream formulated with the revolutionary anti-aging ingredient Alguronic Acid to nourish and restore skin moisture while rebuilding firmness and elasticity. The appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and pores is minimized. The skin is regenerated and protected against signs of aging caused by UVA & UVB exposure.

Complete Eye Renewal Balm ($65.00 USD) — A rich yet lightweight moisturizing and soothing balm for the eye area formulated with the revolutionary anti-aging ingredient Alguronic Acid to diminish signs of aging and fatigue, decreasing the appearance of puffiness and dark circles while tightening and firming the skin around the eyes. Fine lines and wrinkles are minimized for a comprehensive renewal of the eye area.

What I think:  I love these products!  It’s crazy that they can be so gentle going on delivers powerful anti-aging benefits!  They are fragrance-free and soothing when applied.  I have sensitive skin and Algenist products do not irritate my skin.

Since I have been using Algenist, I have noticed that my skin is smoother (pores appear smaller and fine lines are less noticeable), and it has a youthful glow.  I have only been using Algenist for a few weeks, but I will keep using it and see how my skin changes over the next month or so.

Visit www.algenist.com or www.sephora.com to learn more or purchase.  Enjoy your younger skin!

Treat Your Dry, Processed Hair To Rusk’s Deep Shine Oil Volume Shampoo and Conditioner

Summer is a hair killer.  Adding to damage from hair color and heat stylers, you get sun exposure, chlorine and/or salt in the hair and the frizz from humidity.  Yuck.

But my hair is looking pretty good now.  Why, you ask?  I am using Rusk Deepshine Oil Volume Shampoo and Conditioner ($15.00 USD Each).  These products contain the following ingredients for healthy hair:

  • Certified-Organic Moroccan Argan Oil — enhances the shine and condition of the hair.  Adds back natural moisture and softness.
  • Natural Algae Extracts — provide moisture, nourishment and deliver vitamins that help replenish hair’s natural balance.
  • Vitamin E — Protects the scalp and minimizes UV damage to the hair, promoting strength and luster.

I think that these products are wonderful for dry, damaged hair.  They really do revive super-dry hair.  My hair has been dry and frizzy and now it is soft and smooth.   The only thing is that this is probably not for people with fine or oily hair as it can weigh it down.  I really don’t see the shampoo and conditioner as volumizing hair care.  I make sure that I apply volumizing styling products after I use these for lift as well as shine.

Available September 2011 at www.stylesource.com.  Enjoy!

Great Products To Help Keep The Summer Glow Going Through Fall!

Keep your glow up with these fun summer-enhancing products.  From a great color-customized mineral foundation, to a cheek gel to some great glosses, enjoy a new easy look that will help you sail into Fall while keeping your color!

e.l.f. Mineral Personal Blend Foundation SPF 15 ($8.00 USD) — Create customized mineral based color for a perfect match, year-round! Housed in a unique quad  chamber for the perfect mix, the weightless mineral formulation blends seamlessly into skin and contains natural skin protecting SPF 15 and is 100%  mineral based with no parabens, preservatives or chemical dyes. Infused with key Vitamin E for rich antioxidants that hydrate and replenish the skin. The inner dial allows you to control the amount of product dispensed so you can create  your customized color and keep the powder closed for clean and easy use every time.

Each quad blend contains four perfectly matched shades:

  • Light:Porcelain, Fair, Light, Beige
  • Medium:Medium Beige, Golden Honey, Tan, Bronze
  • Dark: Almond, Toffee, Dark, Deep

What I think:  This is such a great idea for a summer powder.  I have the medium, and I am in between Golden Honey and Tan so I mix them together.  I use Bronze for a bronzer and I know as my (fake) tan fades, I know I will be more Medium Beige.  So I get all different looks in one product.  Genius! The only thing that I don’t care for is that there is a little shimmer in it and I like my powder matte. This is for sale at a Target store near you.

Perfekt Beauty Cheek Perfection Gel ($28.00 USD) — gives an instant lit-from-within flush to the cheeks.   The multitasking formula glides on effortlessly to instantly per-fekt and enhance the appearance of the cheeks. Smart Color Technology™ assures a perfect color  match for every skintone. This gel leaves a hint of natural color, sculpting and  highlighting the cheekbones.

What I think:  I like to use just a little bit of this gel to get a lit-from-within glow.  It comes in two shades — Blushed and Bronzed.  I have Blushed, which is a pretty red-toned blush that looks so natural on.  But you can tell it is blush, I have had many compliments on it.  Purchase at www.sephora.com or www.perfektbeauty.com.

It Cosmetics Anti-Aging Shadow Trio & “No Tug” Shadow Brush ($29.00 USD). This eye shadow trio is all about intense pigment, in a naturally pretty look. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hydrolyzed collagen; acai; green tea; and vitamins A, C, and E; and is free of ingredients that make eyes appear older. The Dual No-tug Heavenly Luxe eye shadow brush gives you airbrushed eye shadow application without tugging on your delicate eyelids.

Shades are:

  • Naturally Pretty Matte Luxe: Cashmere, a matte creme; Espresso, a matte deep brown; Earth Angel, a matte beige cashmere
  • Naturally Pretty Pearl Luxe:  Je Ne Sais Quoi, a shimmery nude pink; Espresso, a matte deep brown; Ipanema, a golden beige pearl
  • Pretty in Plum: Je Ne Sais Quoi, a shimmery nude pink; Lucky Lavender, a violet pearl; Plum Passion, a rich shimmer purple

What I think:  I have tried the Pretty in Plum palette and love the colors.  It is highly pigmented and last a long time, especially over It Cosmetics Bye Bye Lid Lines Anti-Aging Primer.  The brush is gorgeous, too.  Purchase at www.qvc.com.

It Cosmetics Anti-Aging Brightening Face Disc  w/Luxe Brush ($48.50 USD).  This palette includes a matte bronzer, luminating powder, and vitality blush. They are packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hydrolyzed collagen; acai; green tea; and vitamins A, C, and E. The Jumbo Heavenly Luxe Mega-Brush gives you airbrushed application, and makes you smile upon contact.  Anyone who needs a little “brush therapy” to smile, will love this ultra-soft, luxe Mega-Brush!

What I think:  This is the perfect all-over face palette.  The matte bronzer is fabulous for contour or a healthy color on the face.  The blush is brightening and the luminizer is perfect anywhere you need a little light on the face.  Visit www.qvc.com to learn more and purchase.

bodycology® is thrilled to introduce you to Healthy Kiss ($2.99 USD) -three delectable, lip-quenching glosses that are loaded with beneficial ingredients: Juicy Watermelon, Fresh Strawberry and Pomegranate Splash. Formulated with a healthy dose of
vitamins, extracts and oils, the product leaves lips feeling beautifully soft and moisturized. Simply squeeze and apply for subtle color, high-gloss shine and mouth-watering flavor.

What I think:  These are fun, shiny glosses that taste fantastic.  They are perfect for days that you want a hint of color and lots of shine.  You can purchase these at Walmart.

Erno Laszlo Transphuse Age Defying Mask Anti Aging Treatment

Erno Laszlo Transphuse Age Defying Mask

I notice as I move further into my forties, my skin needs extra help.  My main complaint is that I notice a general dullness in my skin plus enlarged pores.  Luckily, with my blog, I get to try many different anti-aging products.  Some help, some don’t.  I have recently found one that does!

Erno Laszlo Transphuse Age Defying Mask Anti Aging Treatment ($90.00 USD) is a luxurious approach to anti-aging designed to target fine lines and wrinkles. It also claims to saturate skin with moisture, reverse damage and rejuvenate tired, dull skin. It is formulated with a powerful concentration of Glycosaminoglycans to encourage collagen production for a plumper, more youthful complexion.

Cleanse and tone skin. Apply an even layer to face, avoiding eyes and eye brows. Leave on for 5-10 minutes or until dry. Rinse with warm water. Use weekly or as needed.

What I think:  The first time I tried this, I use as directed.  After drying my face, I looked in the mirror and wow!, my face looked smooth and glowy (not shiny) and my pores appeared so much smaller. Five years off instantly! This is easy to use and gives amazing results.

To purchase, visit www.ernolaszlo.com. Enjoy!