WINTER LUXURY SKINCARE ~ PART THREE

Nothing tests a person’s resolve to toughen it out, than a frigid winter that wreacks havoc on fragile skin.  Cold biting winds that sting, excessively dry outdoor and indoor temps, raw, chafed, and cracked skin can all spell disaster for skin’s balance and skincare regimen.  Having the right products, not only for your skin type, but also for the season, are key to effective and gentle cleansing, maintaining hydration levels, minimizing the effects of aging, and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

Today’s article features recent product lines I tested that included Decleor, ESPA, Korres Modern Greek Apothecary, and L’Occitane en Provence.  All of these products ranked very high with me for being effective, while delivering results.  Each product was an indulgent luxury and aromatherapeutic, and would be ideal additions to anyone’s “age diminishing” skincare and body care regimen. 

~ My Experiences: Products That Soothe & Restore Winter Ravaged Skin ~

Decleor Micellar Oil ~ French skincare brand Decleor has been one of my favorite brands ever since it first launched in the U.S. at the International SPA Association’s Conference (1997).  Since that time, Decleor has become a preferred brand in many luxury spas, as well as upscale retail outlets.  Micellar Oil debunks the prevailing myth that oil and water don’t mix; Decleor has perfected the technology with its formula that gently deep cleans without irritating or stripping the skin’s acid and pH levels.  Key ingredients include Cold Pressed Almond Oil and Olive Squalane.  Micellar Oil becomes transformed from an oil consistency to a creamy cleanser once water is added; this product left no residue and imparted levels of hydration without leaving any tacky or greasy residue; it was gentle and non-irritating.  For more information on this exceptional brand, visit http://www.decleorusa.com

ESPA Super Active Calm & Soothe Moisturiser, Optimal Skin ProSerum, and Super Active Calm & Soothe Mask ~ When I reviewed the Le Meridien Chicago-Oakbrook Spa Suites (December 22, 2014), my article also included my review of the ESPA Personalised Facial.  In addition to a variety of ESPA products my esthetician used throughout the facial treatment experience, the products listed were also used.  Each of these three products performed beautifully and the aromatherapeutic properties further added to the delight of using each product.  Overall, my skin appeared refreshed, calmed and revitalized, with a noticeable improvement in brightness; the texture felt refined, pores appeared diminished, as did fine lines and wrinkles; hydration levels were well maintained throughout the day.  Key ingredients include: Moisturiser ~ Squalane, Glycerin, Broccoli Seed Oil, Shea Butter, Rosa Canina Seed Oil, Candellila/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Algae Extract, Gotu Kola, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Vitamin E, Sunflower Seed Oil, Honey and Arnica Extract; ProSerum ~ Turmeric, Rose Hip and Echium Oil, White Lupin, Kalpariane Seaweed Extract, Sunflower Seed, Vitamin E and Evening Primrose Oil, Rose and Patchouli Essential Oils; and, Mask ~ Aloe Leaf, Algae, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Arnica and Honey Extract, Vitamin E, Rooibos, Rosa Canina Seed Oil, and Glycerin.  For more information on this exceptional brand, visit http://us.espaskincare.com

Korres Modern Greek Apothecary Basil Lemon Body Butter ~ I fell in love with this product the first time I used it.  It’s rich dense formulation felt luxurious and extravagant.  As soon as I began apply the Body Butter, my parched skin immediately felt soothed and comforted, while its aromatherapeutic properties also made using this product delightful.  The Body Butter was quickly absorbed, gentle, and non-irritating, even to winter-raw patches of skin; hydration levels were exceptional and the product acted like a barrier to dehydration; I also loved using it as a hand cream; my brittle dry cuticles were made soothe and supple; dry patches on some of the finger joints also disappeared.  Key ingredients include Sweet Almond Oil, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Squalane, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Vitamin E, Fig Fruit Extract, and Grape Seed Extract.  For more information on this exceptional brand, visit http://www.korresusa.com

L’Occitane en Provence Shea Butter Light Comforting Cream ~ Here’s another of my favorite product lines, especially its Shea Butter product range.  Shea butter is prized for its anti-aging qualities and its ability to hydrate and revitalize parched skin after only one use; with consistent use, the efficacy is cumulative, yielding skin that is diminishes most signs of aging.  Years ago, I used to use a product by L’Occitane that’s no longer available; the Ultra Moisturizing Cream was formulated with an eight percent concentration of Shea Butter.  Recently, L’Occitane introduced their Shea Butter Light Comforting Cream, which offered a five percent concentration of Shea Butter.  For those plagued with exceptionally dry skin, L’Occitane offers Shea Butter Ultra Rich Comforting Cream, which has an impressive twenty-five percent concentration of Shea Butter.  Even in the extremely harsh winter conditions hitting the nation, the latest iteration of these wonderful performing skincare products performs beautifully.  The rich, dense formulation glides on the skin and is absorbed immediately without leaving any tacky or greasy residue; it’s gentle and non-irritating and leaves a barrier of hydration that is like wearing a warm comforter to protect against the harsh elements.  Key ingredients include Shea Butter, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Vitamin E.  For more information on this exceptional brand, visit http://usa.loccitane.com

~ In Closing ~

Whatever the season, following are my basic guidelines for optimal skincare; each will help stave off any noticeable signs of aging…1) having an established at-home skincare regimen is key to maintaining healthy skin…2) having the right mix of treatment products is also vital, including those formulated for one’s specific skin type…3) equally as important is using products that are formulated to conform to one’s specific locale that takes into consideration the environment, climate, and geography.

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, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital 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 also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was 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.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo of Greta Garbo from wedo.co.uk.  All other photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

SKINCARE 101: FROM WILMA SCHUMANN

Skincare expert and icon Wilma Schumann shares industry insight, information, and tips to maximize your skincare regimen and approach to perfect-looking skin.  In the expanding and fascinating sea of anti-aging products, it’s absolutely an overwhelming task to know which ingredients are right. Below are some “All-Star” ingredients explained to look for when considering skincare products, as well as some helpful hints and reminders that emphasize the best in skincare for generating optimum results. 

           

~ Be In The Know ~

(Image from www.cosmeticproducts.org)

Argireline

Argireline has seriously taken the beauty world by storm in the fight against wrinkles!  This peptide works on the skin by avoiding muscle contraction to prevent the formation of lines or soften existing ones.  It is one of the latest generations in the skin care technology used in products specifically for the eyes or forehead.  You must be consistent and apply it daily to see the results you’re looking for, since besides relaxing the nerves around the area you’re treating, it’s also an excellent skin moisturizer Argireline has many advantages, such as being hypo allergenic, non-aggressive, low toxicity level, and can be used on any area of the skin.  Available in Wilma Schumann’s Moisture Intensiv Restorative Crème.                

Sphingolipids

These are long chain lipids that act as skin-repairing ingredients for deep, long-lasting moisturization and defense.  Basically they are a group of beneficial fatty acid components particularly arranged in a way that makes them constructive to the skin. They are wonderful at epidermal regeneration and restoration.  Unfortunately, substantial skin changes happen in our complexions that cause a decline in its protective and renewal capacity.   These lipids are great at communicating between the cells of a particular skin layer and also capable of cross communication between different layers.  This means they can improve the look and condition of multiple layers at the same time. Available in Wilma Schumann’s Oxygen Moisturizing Serum.           

Alpha Lipoic Acids

These are some of the most powerful antioxidants in the area of anti-aging and anti-inflammatory ingredients.  Alpha Lipoic Acids (ALA’s) are compounds that occur naturally in the body and that neutralize any injury caused by free radicals.  ALA is also soluble in both water and lipids (fats) which makes it ideal for being absorbed easily through the different skin layers as well as fighting free radicals in and out of cell membranes.  ALA’s are 400 times stronger than vitamins E and C when it comes to antioxidant strength.  Available in Wilma Schumann’s Moisture Activ Gel-Crème.

                               

DMAE

DMAE or dimethylaminoethanol is a primary alcohol and its role in skin care has gained much popularity due to its powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.  DMAE is an ancestor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that makes muscles tighten under the skin.  Thus, it can assist in keeping muscle tone as we age while preventing wrinkles.  Also, it can help maintain skin firmness as we age, helping to avoid both skin dropping and flaccidity.  Studies have found that what makes us look aged is not just wrinkles but mostly the loss in the anatomical position and the underlying face muscles.  DMAE improves skin elasticity, luminosity, and tone.  It also contributes to making face muscles elongated and relaxed for increased firmness.  Available in Wilma Schumann’s Moisture Activ Gel-Crème.

  

Hyaluronic Acid

This is one hot and popular skincare ingredient designed to plump and hydrate aging skin.  Hyaluronic Acid became very popular through the great results achieved via injectables in the form of fillers.  But it has also gained widespread fame applied topically on the skin using advanced anti-aging treatments and products.  Many people prefer to use Hyaluronic Acid in topical form because it’s less aggressive than injections, don’t require down time, and have a more natural look on the skin.  The acid also has an added benefit for long-term results because as you continue to apply it, it stimulates de production of elastin and collagen within the skin.  The more you use, the more your body produces this by itself.  The better your skin looks, the better you feel.  Available in Wilma Schumann’s Hydra-Gel Masques.

 ~ Skincare Tips & Reminders ~

(Image from www.seewhy.com)

Remove your makeup, ALWAYS ~ This has to be one of the easiest ways to avoid breakouts yet it’s one of the main offenses in skin care. When we leave our makeup on and go to bed, we’re also leaving a few other things like street pollution, cell phone bacteria, sweat, and dead skin cells. So, as tired as you are, it’s crucial that you remove all the icky stuff and do a quick wash, even if it’s all you do.

Add Serums to your routine ~ Here’s the truth about serums. If you have oily skin, an oil-free serum is all you need and can replace your moisturizer. If you have dry skin, you can add a serum before your moisturizer and having both will increase both products’ potency. Here’s why serums rule ~ they often have smaller molecules than creams and can be better absorbed by the skin.

Take your Vitamin C ~ Vitamin C can really maximize your results when it comes to anti-aging because it’s a powerful antioxidant and prevents cell damage that is exposed to free radicals and solar radiation. Another plus of this beauty vitamin is that it increases collagen synthesis, which lowers with aging. Vitamin C also helps to even out skin tone as it lightens and brightens to reveal a more radiant complexion.

Look for topical Hyaluronic Acid ~ The potent ingredient is designed to hydrate and plump the skin and when used topically there’s zero downtime needed.

Give your décolleté some TLC ~ Take care of this delicate skin that is damaged by environmental factors. It’s important to keep in mind two key words: hydration and elasticity. Since this part of the body tends to be the driest due to less oil glands, you should apply your moisturizer as soon as you step out of the shower. Also, when it comes to exfoliation, less is more for the chest area. It should also be a thicker and denser than your face cream and include SPF.

For more information on Wilma Schumann European Skincare, visit http://wilmaschumann.com

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, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital 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 also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was 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.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo credit as represented by the specific brand; all others, as captioned.)

WINTER LUXURY SKINCARE ~ PART TWO

~ CAVIAR OF SWITZERLAND ~

Nothing tests a person’s resolve to toughen it out than a frigid winter that wreacks havoc on fragile skin.  Cold biting winds that sting, excessively dry outdoor and indoor temps, raw, chafed, and cracked skin can all spell disaster for skin’s balance and skincare regimen.  Having the right products, not only for your skin type, but also for the season, are key to effective and gentle cleansing, maintaining hydration levels, minimizing the effects of aging, and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

Today’s article features a recent product line I tested.  Caviar of Switzerland ranked very high with me for being effective, while delivering exceptional results.  Each product was an indulgent luxury, and would be an ideal addition to anyone’s “age diminishing” skincare regimen, and as a former devotee and La Prairie user, Caviar of Switzerland is just as superior performing, but not as costly!

~ About the Brand ~

“ The CAVIAR OF SWITZERLAND collection contains an exclusive ingredient complex with high tech active ingredients and precious Caviar extract. The innovative age-fighting ingredients deliver nutrients essential to the health, vitality and overall appearance of your skin while offering the purity, quality and innovation that is synonymous with Switzerland...Designed to actively prevent extrinsic and intrinsic aging, the Caviar Extract intensively moisturises the skin, leaving it remineralised and regenerated. Partnered with Syn-Coll—Collagen Synthesis-Stimulating Peptide - fine lines and deep wrinkles are diminished as the skin is activated to produce new collagen.  Caviar of Switzerland’s innovative complex of active ingredients is heightened by Hyaluronic Acid, which works to preserve the skin’s volume, suppleness, elasticity and tone. SOD—Superoxide Dismutase—and Resveratrol further help to repair the skin and protect from all damaging effects of aging….”

~ My Experiences ~

When I first began my test with Caviar of Switzerland, my skin was in fairly good condition, with the exception of a few minor concerns…a few noticeable fine lines under the eye area and forehead, frown lines between my eyes on the forehead, a slightly dry patch under my chin, and a grainy appearance of my neck…yes, these are minor issues given my age!  I used the Intensive Eye Cream, Cellular Repair Serum, and 24h Regenerating Cream.  Each of these products not only performed beautifully, delivering noticeable results after only a few times of use, greatly diminishing these “concerns”, but the skin texture improved, became more firm and silky to the touch.  Hydration levels remained throughout the day and my skin looked and felt healthier, toned, and more nourished.  Skin tone was evened out and my skin appeared luminous.  Products went on effortlessly, were quickly absorbed, and left no tacky residue.  Texture of all products was rich and dense, and luxurious to the touch.  When all three products were used synchronous within my skincare regimen, my skin reacted favorably and appeared to improve with each day’s use.

Intensive Eye Cream ~ This gentle and non-irritating product provided exceptional hydration to the delicate under eye area.  One of the few eye care products I’ve been able to use on my fragile under eye tissue without any irritation, tearing, or product migration.

Cellular Repair Serum ~ This product has a silky and luxurious quality that primed my skin beautifully with revitalizing hydration; improves circulation and cellular development.

24h Regenerating Cream ~ As if the other two products weren’t star performers, this was an outstanding product; it hydrated, nourished, and revitalized the skin, while delivering vital nutrients to the skin that benefit circulation and cellular improvement.

The family of Caviar of Switzerland products definitely restored and revitalized my winter-weary skin beautifully; my skin looked healthier and felt renewed.  For additional information on these outstanding products, visit http://www.caviarofswitzerland.us

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, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital 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 also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was 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.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo of Jean Harlow from wedo.co.uk.  All other photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)