Kate Somerville – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Summer Skin Savers — Part 1

Summer is coming! To get ready for it, I have been stocking on some fab products to protect me from the sun’s harmful rays, and to sooth my skin afterwards.

I have received so many great products for my honest review, that I’ve had to split this up into two long posts. I hope this gives you some great ideas!

Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum ($42; travel size $20) – City Sunscreen Serum is a multitasking broad spectrum SPF 30+ daily repair serum for skin exposed to the sun, both in the past and the present. This ultra-light, Broad Spectrum SPF 30+ simultaneously protects skin, moisturizes on contact and combats premature aging. with Antioxidants E and B5 to optimize skin health, promote nutrient absorption and cell renewal and HYDROVOTIN 24 to simulate the skin’s natural moisturizing factor for hydrated and moisturized skin without a rich cream or thick lotion. The perfect first step SPF primer, post cleansing.

What I think: This is the first serum with SPF I have tried. It is a very lightweight serum that soaks right into the skin. I love that it gives anti-aging skin care benefits plus the SPF of 30.

Available at www.supergoop.com.

Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Waterlight ($48 USD) — This ultra-fluid, waterlight sunscreen—that blends effortlessly into skin—provides hydration, SPF50+ broad spectrum protection, and anti-aging benefits. A cutting-edge delivery system ensures that the Sunscreen stays in a reservoir on the skin’s surface, while Advanced Ingredients penetrate to restore optimal moisture levels and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50+ sun protection
Unconventional, ultra-lightweight texture absorbs easily
Contains physical, mineral sun blocking ingredients, without any chemical sunscreens
Utilizes a unique reservoir technology that keeps sunscreen on the surface of the skin

What I think: This is a wonderful sunscreen that is so light you can use it over a heavier moisturizer if you need one. It also has great anti-aging benefits. Great if you are looking for a sunscreen to use with your normal skin care regimen.

Available at www.katesomerville.com

Naturals Skincare Sheer Zinc Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 by Peter Lamas ($44 USD) -offers the ultimate sun protection, this lightweight moisturizer is packed with powerful antioxidant-rich ingredients that help nourish and protect complexion from sun damage. A synergy of active ingredients, which includes natural Mineral Sunscreen Zinc Oxide, defends against free radicals and hydrates the skin while Grape Stem Cells help increase cell turnover rate to rejuvenate skin and repair damage caused over time by harmful UV rays. Zinc Oxide creates an invisible barrier against the sun to provide broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, while photosomes help reverse UV-induced damage and help repair the skin’s DNA. Olive leaf extract—loaded with polyunsaturated acids—maintains moisture to help create a supple, more youthful-looking complexion.

What I think: I have been using this for a couple of weeks now. I love the SPF, but since it contains Zinc in it, you need to blend it well so white residue doesn’t appear on the skin. I also like to let it sink in for a few minutes before I apply my makeup.

Coming in June to PeterLamas.com.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($42 USD) – Many women prefer a light foundation when lounging by the pool or on a beach, as anything too heavy tends to melt away. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 offers sheer coverage, light moisturization and sun protection-! Toss this 3-in-1 multi-tasker in your beach bag to achieve the perfect dewy glow.

What I think: I have heard great things about this moisturizer, and I was not disappointed. This is so moisturizing that you can skip your normal moisturizer if you wish and apply it right over serum. It covers well, but is light enough to look natural.

Available at www.lauramercier.com.

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone BB Cream (Beauty Balm Cream,$11.99 USD) is a multifunctional formula that targets discoloration and spots while providing natural pigment-perfecting coverage and SPF 15 protection from the sun. Formulated with our Tone Enhancing Complex + Mineral pigment to even skin tone, renew radiance and leave skin with a flawless finish. It:

Targets discoloration
Provides superior moisturization
Protects skin from the sun
Provides lightweight coverage to conceal imperfections
Prevents discoloration from recurring
Brightens complexion
Reduces redness
Primes skin for makeup application

Available in two shades: Fair/Light and Medium/Dark.

What I think: This is the lightest BB Cream I have used. It is very moisturizing, but the coverage isn’t for those who want full coverage. It you want to wake up in the morning and just put this on, you will look very natural and receive skin care benefits.

Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers near you.

eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Lemon Drop with SPF 15 ($3.29 USD) – Pamper your lips while you protect them from the sun with this irresistibly refreshing Broad Spectrum SPF 15 lip balm that’s bursting with natural flavor.

What I think: I love eos lip balms. These are fun and very moisturizing. They also taste great. This one is perfect for the summer since it has SPF.

Available at www.evolutionofsmooth.com and your local drugstore.

Enjoy!

Get A Safe Glow — Self-Tanner Comparison

For the past few summers I have been enjoying experimenting with self-tanners. I am very wary of the sun and try to wear lots of sunscreen when I go out. Plus, I am not much of a sunbather anyway.

It has taken me these few years to get self-tanning right. It is so easy for skin to become streaky or blotchy after self-tanning. But if you exfoliate the skin and slather moisturizer on your hands and feet (these places can look uneven), plus use a fab product like the ones below, self-tanners can make you look great!

I have been receiving samples of self-tanners to review for my honest opinion. Here’s what I think of the gradual self tanners and instant self-tanners I have been using.

Supergoop! ‘Gradual Self-Tanning’ Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20 ($38 USD) – Antioxidant-rich formula improves skins appearance and provides a slight lustrous summer sheen to the skin upon application. Let Supergoop help prepare you for a day in the sun with this melt into your skin, gradual self-tanning mousse also delivering globally approved SPF protection, and rich moisture in one easy step. Sensitive, dry skin is soothed and restored; Wonderful and light, green tea plus cucumber scent.

Pros: Easy to blend, very moisturizing, doesn’t stain hands, spf 20, non-streaky

Cons: funky scent, takes a few days of use to see a noticeable difference (could be a pro if you want a light tan), spendy

Jergens Natural Glow + Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen ($9.99 USD) – Spring has arrived, so it’s time to show some skin. Get natural-looking color gradually, with SPF 20. Jergens^®Jergens^® Natural Glow + PROTECT Daily Moisturizer SPF 20 is the only body moisturizer in the Natural Glow line with SPF protection. Try it today for A beautiful, safe, and healthy natural-looking color.

Pros: Nice scent at first, moisturizing, non-streaking, can see a bit of a difference the next day and deepens quickly with a few days of use, affordable

Cons: leaves a lingering mild chemical scent

Learn more at www.jergens.com. Available at mass market retailers near you.

tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt ($37 USD) – A revolutionary maracuja-infused face and body self tanner. Achieve a healthy faux-glow while drenching your skin in moisture. This revolutionary hybrid gel formula, infused with pure maracuja oil, delivers replenishing essential fatty acids along with skin-brightening and youth-preserving vitamin C. tarte’s proprietary PUREshield™ scent-control technology allows for a pleasant, spa-like application that smells unlike any self tanner you’ve tried before. You’ll be admiring your newly bronzed bod, your skin will feel and look firmer, brighter and smoother soaking in all of the benefits of maracuja oil.

Pros: tinted so that you can see where you apply, comes with a mitt so hands won’t stain, nice scent, imparts a deep tan color, leaves skin very soft, worth the price!

Cons: scent turns chemical and stays on skin for a day or two

Purchase at www.tartecosmetics.com and http://www.qvc.com

Vita Liberata pHenomenal Self Tanner ($54 USD) –pHenomenal gives a longer-lasting tan – up to 4 times longer than any other tan, with a perfect, natural fade. Available in Fair, Medium and Dark.

Incorporates new technology (pHeno2) that works with unique Time Release DHA which slowly releases DHA over time to extend tan – lasts 4 times longer than any other tan.

Mousse formulation is quick-drying, light and airy to give a beautiful, natural bronze result which leaves the skin soft and moisturized.

Pros: foam is light, tinted and easy to blend, beautiful deep tan color, initial smell with application ends and there is NO scent afterwords, which I have never encountered in a self-tanner (worth the steep price!)

Cons: spendy (but worth it)

Available at www.vitaliberatausa.com, Availability: Sephora/Sephora.com

Kate Somerville Glow to Go ($18 USD) —

Somerville360® Body Self Tanning Towelettes make it easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan. Best of all, because this advanced formula works with your skin’s own proteins, it gradually darkens to an ultra-natural, complementary color every time.

Somerville360® Face Self Tanning Pads are quick and easy-to-use while preventing uneven tone and streaking, plus they won’t stain hands. Specially designed for the face, this advanced moisturizing formula contains powerful Peptide K8™ and age-defying actives, designed to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, while creating a glowing complexion in two to four hours.

Kit includes:

2 Somerville360® Body Self Tanning Towelettes
2 Somerville360® Face Self Tanning Pads
Kate’s tips for a gorgeous glow

Pros: Deep tan color is almost instant, easy to use – especially the face pads, leaves skin very soft

Cons: Chemical scent after tanning lasts a day or two, make sure to exfoliate and lotion up feet and hands because this can streak if not blended well

Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturizer ($48 USD) -Stay gorgeous, golden, and glowing with a unique formula that conditions and moisturizes skin for a longer lasting tan. A specialized Peptide and Lipid Complex hydrates skin to help maintain a sun-kissed look after using self-tanning products or sun exposure. Black Snakeroot conditions, moisturizes, and soothes skin for after-sun recovery that prevents peeling and dryness. Rich natural Oils and Butters seal in hydration, making this essential formula a great year-round moisturizer to maximize and help prolong a healthy looking tan.

Enhances the look of both natural and self tanning
Prolongs the life and beauty of a tan
Provides soothing post-sun recovery, replenishing essential lipids that condition and moisturize
Helps prevent peeling and dryness by providing continuous

This is great to use after all self-tanning products (and from sun exposure, we can’t always stay out of the sun).

www.katesomerville.com, www.qvc.com

Enjoy!

Holiday Skincare Gifts To Give or to Enjoy

Skincare is a fabulous gift for the holidays. And there are so many great products for all skin types. Below are ones that I use regularly and love. They are:

Kate Somerville ($75 USD) — Reveal a restored and refreshed look with the four anti-aging favorites in the Ageless Solutions Kit, which virtually turn back time!

Gentle Daily Wash (2 Fl. Oz.) helps clarify your complexion with delicate cleansers.
ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment (0.5 Fl. Oz.) polishes skin to reveal a fresh-from-the-Clinic complexion.
CytoCell Dermal Energizing Treatment (0.5 Fl. Oz.) promotes cell repair as advanced actives work overtime to help minimize the visible signs of aging.
CytoCell Dark Circle Corrective Eye Cream (0.25 Fl. Oz.) helps to improve the look of the delicate eye area by reducing the appearance of puffiness, discoloration, and visible fine lines.

I especially love ExfoliKate. It gets rid of the dead skin and makes my face so soft! Purchase at www.katesomerville.com.

Clarisonic Aria – Candy Apple Red ($199 USD) — It’s time to think beyond the washcloth and elevate cleansing to a sonic level.

Traditional methods of cleansing don’t get your skin as clean as you’d think. Fortunately, the lead inventor of Sonicare® discovered a breakthrough in how we cleanse. Clarisonic’s patented sonic technology works with skin’s natural elasticity to gently remove the impurities traditional methods leave behind—cleansing 6X better than your hands alone. In just 60 seconds, the sonic action removes impurities from pores so creams, serums and moisturizers absorb better. And with regular daily use you’ll notice a reduction in dry patches, oily areas and blemishes. Cleaner skin is healthier skin and healthier skin is more radiant and more beautiful.

Clarisonic Aria infuses sonic cleansing with a harmonic blend of function and form. Sleek, modern, intuitive, Aria sings with 3 speeds, a real time battery life indicator, USB enabled pLink charger and a drying stand that converts to a charging station when coupled with the pLink charger.

Talk about soft and clean skin! I love my Clarisonic. It cleans my clogged pores and smooths out the dry patches. Great for all skin types and it would be a very generous gift! Purchase at www.b-glowing.com.

By Terry Baume de Rose ($59 USD) — This melt-away balm, which has become the must-have of Hollywood stars, BY TERRY’s über-cult product, is a real ultra-glamorous SOS treatment to repair, nourish, regenerate and lastingly protect the lips.

This ultra-rich product is also a precious salve to care for and strengthen the cuticles.
Its creamy and delicately rose-scented texture, which is shiny without being sticky, coats the lips in an incredibly natural glossy finish.
In an instant, the lips are lastingly smoothed, plumped up, supple and protected!

Direction to use:
– Apply BAUME DE ROSE directly to lips with fingertip.
– For greater coverage, use PRÉCISION 3 BRUSH to apply over ROUGE DÉLECTATION.

This is another luxe gift and it is perfect for dry lips. Purchase at www.b-glowing.com.

Enjoy!

Try A New Self-Tanning Product From Beauty Bar

Calling all sun worshipers – extend your summer glow into fall with products from Beauty Bar.

Skin-loving, self-tanning essentials that deliver a healthy-looking glow will extend your summer tan into next season.Achieve a stunning, luminous bronzed glow without exposing your skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays. It might sound too good to be true, but it can be done with these luxuriously formulated self-tanning products from Beauty Bar.

Dedicated to catering to a beauty-savvy, sophisticated clientele, Beauty Bar delivers the exclusive products from luxe domestic and international brands, and the chic boutique’s selection of self tanners lives up to its high standards. “As many people are aware, sun exposure leads to a greater risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other harmful photo-aging side effects,” says Beauty Bar’s Medical Director Dr. Robert T. Anolik. “That’s why if you’re looking to get tan, you should opt for safe self-tanning methods that don’t require you to bake under the sun.”

Get glowing with these self-tanning essentials from Beauty Bar that guarantee your bronzed look will last well into the fall:

Philosophy Here Comes the Sun Gradual Self Tanner for Face ($26 USD) — Here Comes the Sun Gradual Self Tanner for Face gives skin a natural-looking golden glow, while helping to improve the signs of aging. Who needs the sun when you can have a sun-inspired golden glow? This product allows you to find your perfect glow without the harmful effects of the sun. It doesn’t just give your skin a glow, it gives it skin-loving ingredients to help improve the signs of aging. This self-tanner gradually delivers color for a remarkably natural-looking golden glow, while an amino acid complex helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The oil-free, non-greasy formula absorbs easily. Use it each day to increase intensity, and find your perfect glow.

Kate Somerville Somerville 360 Tanning Towelettes ($48 USD for 8) — It’s easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. Kate Somerville Somerville360¦ Tanning Towelettes offer an incredible sun-kissed look that doesn’t require SPF. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan. Because this advanced formula works with your skin’s own proteins, it gradually darkens to an ultra-natural, complementary color every time.

Towelettes containing paraben-free self-tanning formula
Produces a uniform, natural-looking glow on the skin
Delivers a quick and even application with no streaking

Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel ($32 USD) — Get the bronzed skin you crave without the harmful effects of the sun. Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel gives an ultra-natural looking, streak-free tan within just a few hours of application. Using natural and organic ingredients, this hypo-allergenic self-tanner leaves the skin incredibly smooth with no lingering scent.

Self-tanner that delivers an ultra-natural looking tan
Streak-free with no lingering scent
Contains natural and organic ingredients including walnut oil, aloe, and vitamins A through E

Omorovicza Glam Glow ($85 USD) —

In just a few hours, Omorovicza’s Glam Glow gives the face and body a natural-looking golden glow, while hints of lemon and tangerine in this self-tanning lotion lift the spirits and precious oils replenish the skin.

Self-tanning lotion
Natural-looking golden glow
Light lemon and tangerine scent

All products are available on http://www.beautybar.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!

Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Moisture Milk Cleanser

My skin is becoming more of a problem as I age. I can get dry, so I hydrate it. But if I use a cream that it too heavy, I will breakout and my pores will look huge. A catch 22, huh.

So I have found that if I use a creamy cleanser (with my Clarisonic), and a lighter moisturizer, my face becomes clear and smooth!

I have been trying Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Moisture Milk Cleanser ($58 USD) –This rich, creamy blend of antioxidants and fruit extracts is designed to clean, hydrate, and brighten the look of the complexion. KateCeuticals™ Moisture Milk Cleanser delivers comfort to skin with a soothing blend of powerful Vitamins, Orange Blossom, and Orange Peel Extracts that leave skin feeling moisturized and fresh. This sulfate-free cleanser is so gentle that it can be rinsed or simply tissued off.

It’s main ingredients are:

Soybean Extracts help to enhance the skin’s natural barrier function in order to improve the look of firmness.
Kukui, Macadamia, and Coconut Oils are combined with a cutting-edge Lipid Blend in an effort to moisturize instantly and continue to hydrate throughout the day.
Orange Blossom and Orange Peel Extracts are combined with a special Brightening Complex in an effort to create instant illumination and radiance.

Kate Somerville’s products are so wonderful for the skin. I really love how mild this cleanser is. It doesn’t irritate at all. It is also a fab eye makeup remover. Dab it on a tissue or cotton pad and wipe off. It doesn’t irritate.

Gentle for everyday use, this cleanser has become a staple of my skincare routine.

Available exclusively at www.katesomerville.com, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. Enjoy!

Get Your Kisser Ready For Winter And The Holidays With A New Lip Product

As the air is getting colder (and much drier in Kansas City), I really need to take care of my lips. The following products exfoliate, hydrate and beautify the lips this fall and winter!

bliss fabulips sugar lip scrub ($18.00 USD) — This sweetly flavored pout-polishing scrub gently exfoliates lips to remove dead, chapped skin for a beautifully smooth finish that can actually help your lipstick last longer. Featuring finely granulated sweet sugar, almond and walnut shell, the vanilla & orange flavored formula gently exfoliates to buff away dry flakes while jojoba seed and olive oils, shea and cocoa butters, and vitamins A, C and E nourish and condition. Read our lips – it’s the simplest way to get a polished pout! Available at bliss spas, blissworld.com and Sephora.

L’Occitane Lip Balm($12): This new organic balm, made with 10% shea butter, soothes dry and chapped lips and provides gentle nourishing and protective care. This is a part of the Limited-Edition Shea Butter Collection that features packaging designed by L’OCCITANE Founder Olivier Baussan who was inspired by the traditional bogolan fabrics of Africa and the country’s indigenous flowers. Available in the below scents, the limited-edition body cream, hand cream and lip balm speak to L’Occitane’s ongoing work with the women of Burkina Faso, Africa who produce all of the Fair Trade Shea Butter used in L’Occitane products.

– Desert Rose from Morocco is known for its generous blooms and fruity, zesty aroma, which perfumes the desolate landscape.

– Hibiscus from Egypt delights the eyes with its brilliant colors — from the purest white to the most passionate red. Its sensual, sunny perfume awakens the senses.

– Cocoa Flower from the Ivory Coast has a warm, comforting scent with a delicious hint of cacao. This is the scent of the lip Balm.

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com

Quench & Correct Plumping Lip Gloss and Restorative Lip Treatment ($29.00 USD) — Need a reason to smile? This dual-ended dynamo performs double duty. Quench & Correct Plumping Gloss and Restorative Lip Treatment moisturizes and replenishes. One side, Correct Restorative Lip Treatment with Hydra8, reduces the appearance of lip lines and eliminates dryness. The other side, Quench Plumping Gloss, helps restore moisture for an instantly plumped, youthful look that’s bound to keep you beaming.

Correct Restorative Lip Treatment

Dual Peptides are designed to boost hydration and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
A special skin conditioning agent, Hydra8, is formulated to bind moisture to lips for up to eight hours.
Reduces the look of lines and cracks for a softer, smoother smile.

Quench Plumping Gloss

Naturally derived peptides help to increase lip volume, creating the perfect pout.
An intense moisture complex provides long-lasting hydration.
Creates a long-lasting shine and a rosy glow.

You can purchase this at www.katesomerville.com

Every shade in the Three Custom Color Shimmering Lights Collection ($45.00 USD) has been created in our award-winning sheer lipstick formula – highly-moisturizing with buildable color and smooth shimmer to create an eye-catching fullness! Inspired by the celestial skies and brilliant cityscapes of Asia, this wide array of sparkling and soft lipsticks is now available in a slim, convenient palette equipped with a lip brush and mirror, perfectly purse-sized for women on the go! You can purchase this at www.threecustom.com.

Merle Norman Age-Defying Lip Color in Hussy ($15.00 USD) — A smoothing lip color with an age-defying complex increases moisture retention, helping diminish the appearance of fine lines. The deep red Hussy color is available in different formulas. Visit www.merlenorman.com to learn more and purchase.

Fab New Eye Products By Kate Somerville

New eye products by Kate Somerville well keep your eyes looking young and hydrated — and one may even help your lashes appear longer!

True Lash Lash Enhancing Eye Makeup Remover ($35.00 USD) Ready for an eye-opening experience? This incredible multi-tasker not only removes makeup, it also restores the look of lashes with one simple swipe. True Lash Lash Enhancing Eye Makeup Remover gently wipes away all kinds of eye makeup – even waterproof and long-lasting formulas. Cutting-edge SymLash226™ Complex is formulated to create more voluminous lashes. In addition, luxurious botanicals help reduce the appearance of puffiness and fine lines, while nourishing extracts are designed to condition the entire eye area.

Benefits:

Advanced SymLash226™ Complex promotes keratin production, creating visibly
fuller lashes.
Powerful Sodium Hyaluronate helps hydrate and condition the entire eye
area.
Green and White Teas are designed to reduce the appearance of
puffiness.
Chamomile and Aloe Vera smooth out the appearance of fine lines to create a
refreshed, younger look.
Rosehip, Evening Primrose, and Avocado Extracts are combined in an effort to
naturally contour and firm the appearance of the eye area.

What I think: This eye-makeup remover is extremely gentle and effective. One swipe on a cotton pad, and my waterproof eye makeup disappears! The best part is that it doesn’t irritate my eyes at all! I haven’t notices if my lashes look longer, but I have only been using it for a few weeks, but I can tell that my lashes are well conditioned. Excellent product!

With KateCeuticals Multi-Active Repair Lifting and Lineless Eye Cream ($135.00 USD) the results are undeniable: fine lines and wrinkles smoothed, skin tightened and lifted, puffiness noticeably reduced, texture and tone evened out, and the appearance of dark circles dramatically diminished. Your entire eye area will be lightened and brightened with a radiant, youthful glow.

Benefits:

Cutting-edge Peptide Complex utilizes the latest advances to repair damaged cells and increase collagen production, significantly reducing the appearance of fine lines, crow’s feet, and wrinkles.
A unique Caffeine Complex instantly alleviates puffiness and firms skin.
Moisturizing Anti-Aging Actives not only provide long-lasting hydration, but also stimulate collagen production and repair the natural lipid barrier.
Color Correcting Micro-Pearls diffuse and scatter light, diminishing the appearance of fine lines, brightening the entire eye area and masking dark circles.

What I think: What a beautiful, luxury eye cream. The first thing you notice is the pearly glow and creamy consistency. I apply this all around my orbital bone — so I get lifting and brightening all around my eye. It instantly gives my eyes a smooth appearance and lightens my dark circles.

To purchase True Lash visit www.katesomerville.com and to purchase the Multi-Active Repair visit www.neimanmarcus.com. Enjoy!

I Scream For Eye Creams By AmorePacific, Boots No7 and Kate Somerville!

As an over-forty woman who tries a lot of eye cream, I know how indispensible this type of product is to make you look younger! I do not go a day without using eye cream because I will not allow lines and wrinkles around my eyes. Uh-uh. So finding the perfect eye cream is so important. Some really great new ones are:

AmorePacific Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Gel ($85.00 USD) — This lightweight eye treatment infuses the delicate eye area with intense hydration, fortifying the skin against aging. Its exclusive Radiance Eye Complex™ brightens dark circles, reduces puffiness, and protects skin against aging and fatigue. The complex includes:

-Bamboo Sap: Provides moisturization and epidermal cell regeneration.
-Hesperidin: Provides dark-circle care by improving micro-circulation in skin.
-Lotus Extract: Provides enhancement of aquaporin (celluar water-channel) expression.
-Hydrolyzed Green Tea Extract: Provides enhancement of skin protection power by anti-oxidant synthesis.

What I think: I love the light, cooling gel texture of this cream. I have noticed that it immediately plumps up the skin and smoothes away roughness. My skin looks soft and smooth and my eye circles have diminished. Visit www.amorepacific.com and www.sephora.com to learn more and purchase.

Boots No7 Protect and Perfect Eye Cream ($19.99 USD) Chase away dark shadows and puffiness and give skin a brightening boost. Created specifically for the delicate area around the eyes, this unique blend of protecting and renewing ingredients leaves skin soothed, smoothed and revitalized. With our patent pending next generation antioxidant complex, to help shield against free radical damage, plus our skin-firming pro-retinol complex containing lipo-peptides.

What I think: This cream is super-light and quickly soaks into the skin. You can apply it right before your makeup in the morning and still apply concealer if you need it. It does give the skin a little glow that really helps dark circles seem less noticeable. For a really great eye cream, it is also fairly affordable and easy to find since it is available at Target. Visit www.target.com or www.us.boots.com to learn more and purchase.

Kate Somerville CytoCell Dark Circle Corrective Eye Cream ($75.00 USD) — Revive your eyes with this ultimate eye cream that combines years of research and cutting-edge technology. Formulated with Peptide P-199, a revolutionary peptide that stimulates stem cell activity and restores the skin with new energized cells. CytoCell Dark Circle Corrective Eye Cream is clinically proven to treats all signs of aging around the delicate eye area. Claims and features are:

Reduces under eye dark circles by up to 60%*
Reduces puffiness around the eye area by up to 75%*
Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area by up to 60%*
Helps to improve radiance, skin tone, and smoothness
Free of fragrance and parabens
Tested by dermatologists & ophthalmologists

*Based upon results from a 4-week clinical study.

What I Think: This is a very luxurious cream that plumps skin and makes your eye area look smooth and so young! I have noticed that after a few weeks of use, my dark circles look so much lighter. It is also non-irritating which my sensitive eyes appreciate. Visit www.katesomerville.com to purchase this great cream!

My tip is to apply it all around the eye bone (including under the eyebrow) because most eye creams lift and firm and this helps the upper lid from drooping!

Kate Somerville Nourish Daily Moisturizer

Looking for an anti-aging moisturizer that is gentle for every day use? It is so important that skin is kept hydrated as we get older and Kate Somerville Nourish Daily Moisturizer ($65.00 USD) is a light but very moisturizing cream. This product contains:

Matrixyl™3000 & retinyl palmitate, clinically proven to rapidly diminish the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles
Encourages collagen production
Rich in antioxidants, shields skin from free-radicals
Light feel, absorbs quickly & leaves skin balanced, fresh & healthy

I have being using this moisturizer for a few weeks and I love how it feels on my skin. It leaves my face soft and not greasy at all. I also love the fresh, herbal scent that the cream imparts. I have noticed that my skin looks smoother and brighter. Plus, it does not irritate my sensitive skin.

Visit www.katesomerville.com to learn more and to purchase this and many other great products!