Summer days may be waning with vacations, picnicking, barbecuing and
other outdoor activities dramatically tapering off, nearly a month remains in
the season. While summer’s last hurrah
is gaining momentum, reminders like heat, humidity and blazing sun are still
holding fast, despite the calendar.
Regardless of what the calendar may indicate, it’s important to
remember that no matter the season or time of year, environmental and
climatological aspects do wreak havoc on your skin and one must be vigilant in taking
care of their skin by using an age and season appropriate skincare regimen with
products that protect and hydrate the skin; it’s also important to continue
using products that contain an SPF, since sun damage never takes a holiday. Following are my latest product reviews of
products that are suitable for the end of summer, but also transition nicely
into fall.
Amarté Cosmetics Wonder Cream ~
This is a beautiful moisturizer that is ideal for an anti-aging skincare
regimen; it’s also great for sensitive skin.
I enjoyed the dense and rich texture that went on effortlessly; it
absorbed quickly without leaving any greasy or tacky residue. My skin looked brighter and more even in
tone; the texture was refined and fine lines and wrinkles were visibly
diminished. Hydration levels were
maintained throughout the day. Key
ingredients include pearl powder, caviar extract, mushroom extract, propolis,
Vitamin A and E, acacia collagen, argan oil, nutmeg and clove extract, eucalyptus
leaf extract and grapefruit seed extract; aroma is a fresh and subtle citrus. http://www.amartecosmetics.com/
emerginC scientific organics In Lips We Trust Super Antioxidant Lip
Balm and Coconut-Argan Body Oil ~ 
The emerginC line of cosmeceutical skincare products is well
established in the industry. Expanding
their line of products to meet growing demands from discerning clients,
scientific organics was introduced to meet that need of customers who wanted
products that were 100% natural, paraben-free and synthetic fragrance-free that
were results driven; each product contains a minimum of 70% organic ingredients
and includes antioxidant plant and marine extracts, vitamins and plant stem
cells. I loved the In Lips We Trust product because it not only protected my lips, but
it drenched the delicate tissue with ingredients like sweet almond oil, shea
butter, coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, orange oil, Vitamin E and CoQ10. This was a great Lip Balm to use throughout the day, and was non-greasy and went on
easily without pulling the delicate tissue.
I also loved the Coconut-Argan Body Oil.
This spray oil is more like a dry oil, quickly absorbed and
non-greasy. My thirsty skin was left
super hydrated throughout the day. Key
ingredients include sunflower seed oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil,
jojoba seed oil, olive fruit oil, apricot kernel oil, Vitamin E and A,
eucalyptus leaf oil, clove leaf oil, bergamot fruit oil and orange peel
oil. With such an extraordinary mix of
oils, the product’s aroma was delicious.
For every product sold from either its original line or the scientific organics line, the company will
plant a tree; this initiative is part of the non-profit Plant-It 2020 program. In addition
to this ongoing eco-commitment, emerginC
has its own initiative, “emerginCeeds ~
Be the Face of Change. Plant Your Planet”; for every scientific organics product purchased, customers receive a packet
of certified organic, non-GMO mixed lettuce or arugula seeds. http://www.emerginc.com/scientific-organics.aspx
The emerginC line of cosmeceutical skincare products is well
established in the industry. Expanding
their line of products to meet growing demands from discerning clients,
scientific organics was introduced to meet that need of customers who wanted
products that were 100% natural, paraben-free and synthetic fragrance-free that
were results driven; each product contains a minimum of 70% organic ingredients
and includes antioxidant plant and marine extracts, vitamins and plant stem
cells. I loved the In Lips We Trust product because it not only protected my lips, but
it drenched the delicate tissue with ingredients like sweet almond oil, shea
butter, coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, orange oil, Vitamin E and CoQ10. This was a great Lip Balm to use throughout the day, and was non-greasy and went on
easily without pulling the delicate tissue.
I also loved the Coconut-Argan Body Oil.
This spray oil is more like a dry oil, quickly absorbed and
non-greasy. My thirsty skin was left
super hydrated throughout the day. Key
ingredients include sunflower seed oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil,
jojoba seed oil, olive fruit oil, apricot kernel oil, Vitamin E and A,
eucalyptus leaf oil, clove leaf oil, bergamot fruit oil and orange peel
oil. With such an extraordinary mix of
oils, the product’s aroma was delicious.
For every product sold from either its original line or the scientific organics line, the company will
plant a tree; this initiative is part of the non-profit Plant-It 2020 program. In addition
to this ongoing eco-commitment, emerginC
has its own initiative, “emerginCeeds ~
Be the Face of Change. Plant Your Planet”; for every scientific organics product purchased, customers receive a packet
of certified organic, non-GMO mixed lettuce or arugula seeds. http://www.emerginc.com/scientific-organics.aspx
LightStim for Wrinkles and Collagen Peptide Serum ~ As we age,
our body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin diminishes, which results in
fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin, which may not immediately be
noticeable. Over the years, skincare
technology has advanced and with those advancements has come 
development of at-home
devices that have been FDA cleared and approved, which benefit aging skin by
accumulatively stimulating circulation and cell regeneration. LightStim
for Wrinkles is one of those devices whose technology is based on a series
of therapeutic LED lights; the LED lights are in different colors, which
correspond to varying wave-lengths that treat targeted areas on the face; the
lights are amber, deep red and light red, plus infrared; the latter aren’t visible
to the human eye. The regular use of
this device will gradually improve the skin’s ability to show visible signs of
improvement in the diminishment of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the
production of collagen and elastin. I
enjoyed the large surface area on the unit’s head and found it easier to treat
more surface area during my treatment. During
the short time I’ve been using the unit, I’ve noticed a softening of the
wrinkles on the outer part of my forehead and those in the middle, including
the “elevens”, the area in between my eyebrows.
The Collagen Peptide Serum was
the perfect companion treatment product.
This is a multi-function Serum
that helps to improve the overall skintone; it pairs nicely while with the LightStim for Wrinkles device. Benefits of the Serum include targeting wrinkles and fine lines, firming and
oxygenating the skin and hydrating the skin; the hydration levels of skin were
maintained throughout the day; this product was quickly absorbed, didn’t leave
any residue and was non-irritating. LightStim also manufactures LightStim for Acne and LightStim for Pain. The LightStim
for Wrinkles is also available at Ulta
Stores. http://www.lightstim.com/ http://www.ulta.com
development of at-home
devices that have been FDA cleared and approved, which benefit aging skin by
accumulatively stimulating circulation and cell regeneration. LightStim
for Wrinkles is one of those devices whose technology is based on a series
of therapeutic LED lights; the LED lights are in different colors, which
correspond to varying wave-lengths that treat targeted areas on the face; the
lights are amber, deep red and light red, plus infrared; the latter aren’t visible
to the human eye. The regular use of
this device will gradually improve the skin’s ability to show visible signs of
improvement in the diminishment of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the
production of collagen and elastin. I
enjoyed the large surface area on the unit’s head and found it easier to treat
more surface area during my treatment. During
the short time I’ve been using the unit, I’ve noticed a softening of the
wrinkles on the outer part of my forehead and those in the middle, including
the “elevens”, the area in between my eyebrows.
The Collagen Peptide Serum was
the perfect companion treatment product.
This is a multi-function Serum
that helps to improve the overall skintone; it pairs nicely while with the LightStim for Wrinkles device. Benefits of the Serum include targeting wrinkles and fine lines, firming and
oxygenating the skin and hydrating the skin; the hydration levels of skin were
maintained throughout the day; this product was quickly absorbed, didn’t leave
any residue and was non-irritating. LightStim also manufactures LightStim for Acne and LightStim for Pain. The LightStim
for Wrinkles is also available at Ulta
Stores. http://www.lightstim.com/ http://www.ulta.com
Lollipops Paris Natural Cosmetics Mademoiselle Absinthe BB Cream, Lipstick,
Lip Gloss, Eye Shadow, Mascara and Nail Lacquer ~ This popular makeup
line from Paris, is making strong inroads throughout the world and will officially
launch in the states this fall. All of
their products are formulated without the use of lanolin, parabens or preservatives. What I also enjoyed about these products was
that they were geared 
towards the young, girly and flirty type, yet were very
complimentary to my fair skin (and maturity).
The products arrived in an adorable reusable coffret that was girly and
sweet. The BB Cream had a subtle tint to it which evened out my skintone and
improved its appearance; I didn’t need to add any powder to hold the Cream; it lasted throughout the day
without fading without drying or becoming chalky. The Lipstick was a sheer glossy red, Suzy Kiss, which drenched my lips with moisture and brilliant
color. The Lip Gloss in Pearly Pink
gave my lips a real pop of color and brightness; it also drenched my lips with
hydration. The Eye Shadow was a beautiful pinky-taupe, Shell Pink, which also had a subtle hint of glitter; the color went
on easily to give a shimmering hint of color, or could be applied more heavily
to achieve a sultry smoky effect; the color didn’t fade or crease throughout
the day. The Mascara was a raven Black;
the brush separated and lifted lashes, giving a very dramatic appearance;
lashes were noticeably lengthened. I
didn’t get around to using the Nail
Lacquer, which was in a very deep Dark
Red with tinges of purple; the color is gorgeous. http://www.lollipopsmakeup.fr/en/about-us.html
towards the young, girly and flirty type, yet were very
complimentary to my fair skin (and maturity).
The products arrived in an adorable reusable coffret that was girly and
sweet. The BB Cream had a subtle tint to it which evened out my skintone and
improved its appearance; I didn’t need to add any powder to hold the Cream; it lasted throughout the day
without fading without drying or becoming chalky. The Lipstick was a sheer glossy red, Suzy Kiss, which drenched my lips with moisture and brilliant
color. The Lip Gloss in Pearly Pink
gave my lips a real pop of color and brightness; it also drenched my lips with
hydration. The Eye Shadow was a beautiful pinky-taupe, Shell Pink, which also had a subtle hint of glitter; the color went
on easily to give a shimmering hint of color, or could be applied more heavily
to achieve a sultry smoky effect; the color didn’t fade or crease throughout
the day. The Mascara was a raven Black;
the brush separated and lifted lashes, giving a very dramatic appearance;
lashes were noticeably lengthened. I
didn’t get around to using the Nail
Lacquer, which was in a very deep Dark
Red with tinges of purple; the color is gorgeous. http://www.lollipopsmakeup.fr/en/about-us.html
Vine Vera Resveratrol Age Defying Eye Serum ~ In my article, “The Haute Face of Summer”, I reviewed
the Vine Vera Resveratrol Firming Eye
Complex, which was impressive. I
also found the Age Defying Eye Serum
to be impressive. The Serum kept the delicate under eye tissue
hydrated and visibly diminished fine lines; the product was gentle, non-greasy
and didn’t irritate; it was also quickly absorbed and felt cooling as it was
applied. Hydration levels were
maintained throughout the day. Key
ingredients include resveratrol, green tea extract, Vitamin C, aloe leaf
extract, wheat protein, ginkgo biloba leaf extract, and calendula flower
extract. http://www.vinevera.com/
Walleroo Hat Company ~ Catalina Hat Design ~ I’ve always loved
wearing hats, no matter the season, but especially during the summer. Wearing them has been a minor fashion
statement, but also a practical must.
I’ve primarily worn hats to protect my fair skin from getting sunburned
on the face and ears. The Walleroo Hat Company offers a number of
beautifully designed hats that are 
fashionable by also sun safe! Not only is this design beautifully fashioned,
but its fibers are also UPF
(Ultraviolet Protection Factor) 50+ rated.
The Skin Cancer Foundation
recommends that a hat have at least a UPF rating of 30 or higher in order to
provide maximum sun protection from UV rays penetrating the hat’s fabric. The UPF 50+ rating protects the delicate skin
from the sun’s piercing and harsh UV rays by 97.5%. My Catalina
Hat Design is made of natural raffia straw and has an adjustable inner band
for looser or tighter fittings; it’s also pliable enough to be rolled for
storage in baggage without damaging any of the fibers. Wearing my Catalina Hat Design while
taking my walks definitely provided ample protection for my head, face and ears
against any sunburn. Walleroo Hat Company donates 1% of their
annual profits to skin cancer research, education and prevention in the U.S. in
support of their commitment to sun protection.
http://www.wallaroohats.com/
fashionable by also sun safe! Not only is this design beautifully fashioned,
but its fibers are also UPF
(Ultraviolet Protection Factor) 50+ rated.
The Skin Cancer Foundation
recommends that a hat have at least a UPF rating of 30 or higher in order to
provide maximum sun protection from UV rays penetrating the hat’s fabric. The UPF 50+ rating protects the delicate skin
from the sun’s piercing and harsh UV rays by 97.5%. My Catalina
Hat Design is made of natural raffia straw and has an adjustable inner band
for looser or tighter fittings; it’s also pliable enough to be rolled for
storage in baggage without damaging any of the fibers. Wearing my Catalina Hat Design while
taking my walks definitely provided ample protection for my head, face and ears
against any sunburn. Walleroo Hat Company donates 1% of their
annual profits to skin cancer research, education and prevention in the U.S. in
support of their commitment to sun protection.
http://www.wallaroohats.com/
~ ISPA
Member Gift Picks ~
The International SPA Association member spas have a few of their own
product picks they recommend for gift giving anytime of the year. Following are some of their top gift picks.
Ambre Blends Skin Tonic
Set includes Ambre Blends Roll-on Essence and Skin Tonic. Ba6 Botanicals, LLC Moringa Facial Oil is formulated with
nourishing moringa, olive and avocado oils to immerse the skin in antioxidants,
vitamins and powerful essential fatty acids.
Bloq UV 24/7 has elongated
sleeves and a functional pocket and blocks 98% of the sun’s rays. The fabric
has moisture wicking and dries quickly, cooling you off when wet with sweat or
water. Epicuren Discovery Tahitian Vanilla After Bath Moisturizer replenishes
and hydrates dry skin, leaving the body feeling hydrated, soft and silky. Erbaviva Hand Cream combines the antioxidant benefits of rosemary extract
and the skin rejuvenating, anti-aging properties of commiphora mukul for soft,
beautiful hands. Hylunia Hydrating Neroli Mist gently infuses moisture
into skin and offers hydration that helps skin appear younger and fresher. Makes Scents Natural Spa Line Organic Mocha Mint Cappuccino Body Scrub
is a 100% organic scrub with the tantalizing scents of rich dark chocolate,
refreshing peppermint and invigorating coffee that will indulge the senses of
those on your gift-giving list. Performance
Health Biofreeze 360° Spray
works from any angle and is the perfect gift for anyone experiencing aches and
pains. Phytomer Corporation Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream is
formulated with detoxifying microalgae that eliminates free radicals, toxins
and pollutants that disrupt the proper functioning of cells. Sothys USA Inc. Secrets de Sothys Luxury Gift Set is a luxurious box that
includes Secrets de Sothys Global
Anti-Age De-stressing Care and Serum.
SpaRitual Illuminate Lacquer Duo with Fair Trade Bag is a holiday must-have
gift set that includes two luminous lacquers, Intention, a red shimmer color, and Intuition, a purple shimmer color, paired with a custom-designed
fair trade bag made with 100% abaca plant fibers grown in the Philippines. Spiller U.S. Sanvita Gift Box is a specially packaged set of Dr. Spiller’s green tea-based product
line including containers of Sanvita
Cream, Sanvita Gel and Sanvita Mask, excellent for all skin types. Sprayology Party Relief is the perfect holiday accessory that prevents and relieves
hangovers naturally. Universal Companies ESS Aromatherapy Roll-Ons offer essential
oils in a convenient roll-on and are available in seven blends that always
produce aromatherapeutic benefits. http://www.experienceispa.com
All of these products are a great way to keep your summer memories close, while beginning to think about transitioning
into fall. In coming editions, I’ll be
sharing with you tips, news and product reviews all geared towards fall. So, stay tuned!
That’s it for this edition. Until the next one, remember to take care of
yourself and those you love.
By Terry Herman
Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the
industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management,
operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she
authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two
copyright registrations. Consumer and trade publications have also
interviewed her as an expert. She also
conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of
creating an at-home spa, interior design, stress and time management. Her work has been published extensively in
print and online in both consumer and trade publications. In addition to
writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management
consultant and motivational speaker. She
currently serves on EXPERIENCE
| PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is
comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and
spa. She also served as a Group Manager
for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.
You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.
ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
(Introductory image from www.pictureperfectmeals.com. All other photo credits as represented by the
specific brand.)
N.B. Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my
Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web
links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded
images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized.
