Monday, April 25, 2016

SPRING PRODUCT FINDS

(Image from www.6iee.com)
Springtime is all about change and renewal.  Following are some of my latest spring product finds I tested, that would be perfect additions to your routine.  Each one of these products delivers results, while reviving, restoring, and nourishing your skin as you transition from winter into spring; they’re also gentle and effective.  With regular use, your skin will become the season’s best accessory…enjoy! 

~ At-Home Spa Experience ~

(Image from www.wholeliving.com)
Your at-home spa experience should begin with a dry brushing of your body, which helps to prep your skin for exfoliation; next, take a warm shower and thoroughly exfoliate; towel dry, leaving the skin slightly damp; then, apply a moisturizer, such as a dry oil; lastly, don’t forget to pamper your hands by applying a rich hand cream to hands, paying extra attention to the cuticles.  After your routine, wrap yourself in a comfy robe, make a soothing cup of tea or tisane, and relax!  The following Decléor products are perfect for your at-home spa experience.

Decléor 1000 Grain Body Exfoliator, Aroma Nutrition Satin Softening Dry Oil, and Hand Cream 1000 Grain Body Exfoliator was a gentle, yet highly effective all-natural exfoliator that was non-irritating, and left the skin with an improved and consistent silky texture; skin was revitalized and noticeably softer.  Key ingredients include Grapefruit Essential Oil, Argan Shells, Orange Peel, Sugar Grains, Grape, Pineapple, and Passion Fruit Acids.  The fresh and subtle aroma of Grapefruit was also calming to the senses.  Aroma Nutrition Satin Softening Dry Oil is intensely hydrating Dry Oil that can be used on body, face, and hair.  I used it as a body oil to drench my parched, flaky skin.  I was amazed at how my skin was transformed; it was incredibly smooth, silky, and luminous; the handy spray released just the right amount of the precious oil; it was quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any greasy or tacky residue; hydration levels remained throughout the day; another benefit of this luxuriant oil was that my skin felt like it had been wrapped in a comforting blanket that soothed my dry and irritated skin.  Key ingredients include Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Rosehip Oil, Vitamin E, Orange Peel Oil, Carrot Root Extract, Avocado Oil, Gardenia Flower, Camellia Seed Oil, Rosa Damascena Oil, and Frankincense Oil.  The subtle aromas of this exceptional oil were fresh and calming.  The Hand Cream was the perfect moisturizer for hands that were showing signs of aging.  Not only did this Hand Cream hydrate exceptionally well, but also with regular use, it has an accumulative affect of toning and brightening the skin.  Key ingredients include White Meadowfoam Oil, Shea Butter, Allantoin, Magnolia Essential Oil, and Coconut Plant Oil.  The subtle aroma of Magnolia was great for the senses!  http://www.decleorusa.com
~ One can easily create an at-home spa day using these products, which restore, revitalize, and rehydrate parched and thirsty skin; skin texture was improved and levels of hydration were maintained throughout the day. 

~ For Face, Body, and Hands ~


Better Skin Mirakle Cream ~ This was an ideal moisturizer for my finicky and reactive skin, which had dry patches, and an uneven texture.  Mirakle Cream has a rich and dense texture, which was quickly absorbed, without leaving any greasy or tacky residue; the product has a neutral aroma. With continued use, I noticed that my skin’s texture became more even, the dry patches dissipated, the occasional redness disappeared, and the fine lines and wrinkles became minimized; hydration levels were maintained throughout the day.  Overall, my skin looked healthier and brighter.  Key ingredients include Beeswax, Coconut Oil, Sea Buckthorn, Cocoa Butter, Aloe, Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, and AlgaeMirakle Cream is free of gluten, paraben, surfactants, and fragrance.  Be sure to check the website to see all of the many benefits of Mirakle Creamhttp://thebetterskinco.com

Egyptian Magic ~ This was the perfect nighttime balm to drench my skin before going to sleep.  Because of its rich concentrated formula, a very small amount, warmed up in the palms and then applied to the face and neck, was all I needed for thorough coverage of the face and neck; any excess I applied to my cuticles.  While sleeping, my skin soaked up the balm, and the following morning, my skin was beautifully hydrated.  Fine lines and wrinkles were diminished and my overall texture was silky smooth.  While I did find the initial aroma of the product peculiar, it quickly dissipated.  Key ingredients include Olive Oil, Beeswax, Honey, Bee Pollen, Propolis, and Royal Jelly.  Egyptian Magic is free of parabens, additives, GMOs, and added preservatives.  Be sure to check the website to see all of the many benefits of Egyptian Magichttp://egyptianmagic.com


L’Occitane en Provence ~ Lavender Hand Cream and Pivoine Flora Hand Cream (Peony) ~ These Hand Creams have rich formulations that drenched my dry skin, especially my dry and cracked cuticles, with long lasting moisture.  Both products were quickly absorbed, without leaving any greasy or tacky residue; the subtle aromas were also a nice reminder of the freshness of the new season.  Key ingredients for the Lavender Hand Cream include Glycerin, Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Lavender Oil, Rosemary Seed Extract, Coconut Oil, and Vitamin E.  Key ingredients for the Pivoine Flora Hand Cream include Glycerin, Shea Butter, Peony Extract, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Vitamin E.  The one-ounce travel size is perfect as a take-with.  http://usa.loccitane.com

~ Fragrance and Maquillage ~

Aromaflage, Fragrance With Function ~ Aromaflage Wild and Aromaflage are the first fragrances I’ve come across that are formulated to add subtle scent, but also repel insects.  With the warmer months approaching, along with a host of annoying pesky flying insects, these are must-have accessories.  The Aromaflage Wild fragrance is a natural blend of cardamom, cedarwood, and spruce essential oils, plus Vitamin E and denatured alcohol.  The fragrance naturally repels insects, and is also free of Deet, chemicals, and parabens. Overall, I found the fragrance to be a fresh green scent with a subtle hint of sweet.  The Aromaflage fragrance is a natural blend of citrus fruit, cedarwood and silken vanilla essential oils, plus Vitamin E, and denatured alcohol.  The fragrance naturally repels insects, and is also free of Deet, chemicals, and parabens.  Overall, I found the fragrance to be sweet with a subtle citrus note.  Either blend would be ideal for day or evening, since neither fragrance is intense or cloying.  http://www.aromaflage.com


Smashbox Cream and Matte Lipsticks ~ The colors of spring are always fresh, subtle, and muted, and these Cream and Matte Lipstick colors I didn’t disappoint.  Each one added a beautiful hint of color to my lips, which brightened my entire face. Cream colors included Panorama Pink (a mauve tone), Nude Beach (a neutral coral tone), and Tabloid (a lilac tone).  Matte colors included Pinch Me (a coral tone) and Safe Word (a toffee tone).  The Cream formulas went on easily, while I had to add a bit of clear gloss on the lips first before adding the Matte formulas.  Key ingredients in the Lipsticks included hydrating Vitamin E, Chamomile Flower Oil, and Castor Seed Oil.  Be sure to check the website for the full range of these beautiful lipsticks.  http://www.smashbox.com


Westmore Beauty Eye Effects Red Carpet Lashes Mascara ~ I have very puny eyelashes and about the only thing that accentuates them is black mascara.  Over the years, I’ve tried many different brands and most I’ve been disappointed with the results; I’ve even tried those lash lengthening serums, liners, and mascaras, and have also been disappointed, especially since the serums and liners take a very long time to produce results, and then the upkeep is costly.  I was amazed at how well this product worked.  All I had to do was apply two coats and the length of my lashes more than doubled and were actually curled; the latter point is remarkable, since I have virtually no curl to my lashes.  The patented double brush curls, equally distributes product, and lengthens and separates the hairs all at the same time, and there’s no clumping, or flaking.  Best mascara I’ve ever used.  https://www.westmorebeauty.com


~ Waxing Nostalgic ~
(Image from www.drugstore.com)
Jergens Face Cream and Hand Lotion ~ Growing up, both my mom and aunt regularly used these two products as part of their daily beauty regimen.  Most women relied on these two tried and true beauty products that were also affordable.  Both my mom aunt had very soft faces and hands.  I recently purchased these two items as a reminder of those years.  And, one whiff of their aromas immediately transported me back to those days.  The Face Cream container, including its label, hasn’t changed, however, I understand the product might be phased out in the U.S. Market.  The Face Cream was also used as a “cleanser”.  And although the container design has changed, the Hand Lotion is still available in the original Cherry Almond scent.  It’s nice when some things don’t change!  http://www.jergens.com/default.aspx

~ In Closing ~

(Image from www.littlepocketguide.com)
Each new season presents so many opportunities for change and renewal.  Finding what works for you might take a bit of time, but in the end, it’ll be well worth the effort.  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 on her authored work.  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.  In addition to her blogs, her social media outreach also includes Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  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”.  Please note that the “Comment Section” has been disabled.  For additional information, you can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as indicated, or as represented by the specific brand.)

Monday, April 11, 2016

SPRING WONDERS OF JANE IREDALE


(Image from www.wallpaperup.com)

IREDALE MINERAL COSMETICS ~ BEAUTY WITH BRILLIANCE

Since 1994, skincare professionals, makeup artists, dermatologists, plastic surgeons, celebrities, and general consumers alike have revered this eponymous brand.  The brand is regarded as THE definitive mineral makeup line that is natural, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, gentle, and beneficial for skin.  

The full range of products includes mineral makeup for eyes, brows, face, cheeks, and lips, plus application tools; a full range of treatment products for face and body, including nutritional supplements, and sunscreen; and, with the addition and expansion of this impressive line with its first skincare products, BeautyPrep, this is fast becoming a one-stop brand for all one’s treatment products, and the perfect way to prep your skin for beautiful mineral makeup.  I wouldn’t be surprised if in short order the BeautyPrep line expands into additional skincare treatment products exfoliators, serums and masks, plus a full line of complementary body care treatment products.  The possibilities are endless, and definitely pose some exciting anticipation for the devotee of this beloved brand.

I was thrilled to recently test the new skincare line, as well as the new spring color collection.  I can always count on Jane Iredale to come up with fresh new ideas that fit in perfectly with a new season.  These two collections certainly didn’t disappoint, and are perfect for transitioning from winter to spring, and even into summer.

~ BeautyPrep Skin Care ~


As I used each of these products, my mind became fixated on calming fresh aromas that made me think of warmer temps. The Face Cleanser, a Micellar water-based cleanser, quickly dissolved and lifted any accumulated gunk from my skin.  Best part of the Face Cleanser was that a simple cotton ball was all I needed to get the job done; I didn’t even have to rinse; it was a quick way to cleanse my face. Key ingredients that cleanse, nourish, and prime the skin include Cucumber Seed Extract, Cucumber Fruit Extract, Radish Root Extract, and Algae Extract.  The Face Toner followed and added another layer of refreshed skin enjoyment; I especially loved the professional push-top dispenser container where all you had to do was pump the dispenser a few times to release the Face Toner onto the cotton ball.  Key ingredients that help to refine pores, moisturize, and prime skin for makeup application include a Fruit Extract Water, Herbasome, comprised of Lemongrass, Apple, Pear, Coconut, and Carrot Water, Rosehips Fruit Extract, White Tea Extract, Orange Oil, Lavender Oil, Calendula Extract, Chamomile Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Vitamin E. The Face Moisturizer was the perfect ending to this refreshing and thorough treatment regimen.  I loved how the Face Moisturizer felt like silk as I applied it; it was quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any tacky or greasy residue; my face looked healthier and definitely brighter; fine lines and wrinkles were also diminished.  Key ingredients that help to moisturize, brighten skin, protect, and prime the skin for makeup application, include organic Rose Stem Cell Extract Water (Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Rosa Alba Fruit Extract, Rosa Centifolia Extract, and Rosehips Extract), Lemongrass Extract, Radish Root Extract, Avocado Butter, Shea Butter, Apple and Blackberry Fruit Extracts, Sunflower Seed Oil, Orange Oil, Honeysuckle Fruit Extract, Coconut, and Jojoba Seed Oil.

Neither the Face Cleanser or the Face Toner left any tacky residue; the skin not only felt refreshed, by soft to the touch; neither product was drying and my skin wasn’t left taught.  Ingredients in the Face Cleanser are 99% certified organic (Ecocert), and the Face Toner has 100% certified organic (Ecocert).
The aromas for each of the three products were delightfully fresh and clean.  Overall my skin was silky to the touch, moisturized, and looked healthy and more luminous.

~ Spring Makeup Collection ~


When it comes to spring color makeup palettes, Jane Iredale knows how to make the colors speak for the season.  Spring is a gentle and subtle season that begins softly and slowly with its promises of hope and renewal.  The colors of Spring aren’t brash or audacious…they’re quiet, subtle, muted, and natural.  This year’s collection is all about “Skin Is In” and the colors are soft, subtle, and muted…in perfect harmony with the season and a person’s natural beauty.  The color palette is flawless and made up of matte colors that complement all skin tones; they’re easy to apply, never crease or fade, and leave a hint of color that lets one’s natural beauty dominate and shine.  The Spring 2016 Collection includes PureGloss Lip Gloss (White Tea), a GreatShape Eyebrow Kit (Blonde or Brunette), a Naturally Matte Eyeshadow Kit (Buttercream, Hush, Slate Brown, Eggplant, and Fudge), and PurePressed Blush (Flawless).  

The PureGloss Lip Gloss in the season’s newest color, White Tea, has a hint of sheer color with subtle shimmer; leaves delicate lips moisturized and treated with key ingredients that include Avocado Oil, Moringa Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Vitamin E; comes with an easy glide tip applicator.  The GreatShape Eyebrow Kit is water-resistant, and is available in either Blonde or Brunette; the adorable travel-sized rose gold mirrored compact includes a dual-tip applicator, eyebrow color, and brow wax; either color is perfect for all skin tones.  The Naturally Matte Eyeshadow Kit comes in a beautiful sleek rose gold mirrored compact, complete with dual-tip applicator.  The beautiful matte eyeshadow colors include Buttercream, Hush, Slate Brown, Eggplant, and FudgeButtercream is a subtle neutral that can be used on the entire eyelid; Hush is a sheer soft pink; Slate Brown is a subtle tonal grey-brown; Eggplant is a matte rose-brown; and, Fudge is a deep chocolate.  These neutral colors can stand alone, or blended to create your own perfect seasonal look with a hint of color.  PurePressed Blush in the season’s newest color, Flawless, is a melding of peach, pink, and brown tones that gives a beautiful natural highlight for cheeks; comes in a lovely rose gold mirrored compact; can also be used as an eyeshadow for a sheer hint of color. 

For more information on BeautyPrep Skin Care, or the “Skin Is In” Spring 2016 Collection, be sure to check out the Jane Iredale social media listings (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.), or visit https://janeiredale.com

~ In Closing ~

(Image from www.paper4pc.com)

When seasons change, skincare products and one’s skincare regimen should also change; the skin is transitioning, so what worked in winter, generally won’t work in spring or summer.  The same is true when it comes to the color palette for makeup; winter’s darker colors won’t work well with spring’s softer and more muted tones.   The BeautyPrep Skin Care system is perfect for spring to summer because it’s light and fresh, and will nourish and treat the skin as the temps heat up.  The “Skin Is In” Spring 2016 Collection is also perfect for spring to summer because of its softer, subtler tones that harmonize with the new season.

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 on her authored work.  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.  In addition to her blogs, her social media outreach also includes Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  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”.  Please note that the “Comment Section” has been disabled.  For additional information, you can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as indicated, or as represented by the specific brand.)