SUMMER'S REMAINING DAYS

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

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

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

 

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/

~ 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.

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(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.