Coming Soon: Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil

I had a chance this weekend to try a sample of Sisley's new Black Rose Precious Face Oil. My first impression was one of love. It is luxurious in every aspect if its being: fragrance, feel, absorption, and hydration.

Here is what Sisley has to say about it...

Nourishing and anti-aging dry oil with a delightful floral fragrance. Visibly smoothes wrinkles and fine lines. Revitalizes the skin and brightens the complexion. Can be used alone or as a base for daily care to prepare the skin for optimal benefits. Suitable for normal to dry or very dry skin, as well as sensitive skin.

This is clearly a follow-on to the wildly successful Black Rose Cream Mask, which I adore. Now, breaking ground, this is the first time Sisley is using an oil based product as a facial skin-care product. I can predict it's going to be a mega-launch when it arrives on U.S. shores.

I do not yet know the price. Stay tuned. I want a case of it, so I hope it's affordable.

Photo courtesy of luxuryactivist.com

Sisley Phyto Lip Twist Tinted Balm

Sisley's new Phyto Lip Twist Tinted Balms ($50) are colored like a lipstick and shiny like a gloss. They are applied with a single "twist" (if necessary) and leave the lips supple, moisturized, visibly smoothed, and plumped thanks to their cocktail of plant-based active ingredients. I purchased two at Neiman Marcus.

• Their ultra-sensory smooth glide-on texture reinvents lipstick (perhaps an exaggeration).
• Their luminous, easy-to-wear shades match any occasion, offering colors from virtual nude to intense.
• They are fun and practical - the new XXL pencil does not need a sharpener.

With Sisley's favorite new zebra print cases, these new lip colors are snazzy and modern. I was instantly drawn to them. I forced myself to select only two. They are pricey, so I figured $100 (for two) was all I could justify. I'd sure love to be on Sisley's blogger list!

The pink on the left in my photo above is shade #2, and the coral is #3. It took me all of two seconds to select them - and then hold myself back from falling in love with more shades. I was not going to do an Hourglass repeat!

Sisley says to apply them just like a lipstick, and that works nicely. The tip is the perfect size for outlining and coloring the lips in a single stroke. Apply a single coat for a sheen of glossy color, or layer for a stronger, stunning flash of color. The choice is yours. They apply like a dream and feel fabulous on the lips. Sisley always packs its color with good-for-you ingredients.

I took swatch photos in full, mid-day sun. I think you will like the colors you see. Unlike some tinted balms, they have color you can see. Number 2 is shown at the top of my arm, with #3 below. Aren't they exquisite shades? Incidentally, I don't know why my photo below shows goosebumps on my arm. It was pretty nice outside when I took these photos.

There are six colors, all of which have names on the Neiman Marcus Web site. My Phyto Lip Twists only have numbers on them. The names are Nude, Baby, Peach, Pink, Berry, and Cherry. There isn't one I wouldn't want to wear.

You can find Sisley's new lip colors at all Sisley counters and online. Need help? Call Vicki Hamilton at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

Despite the high-end price, I'd highly recommend you give these a look-see. I'll bet you come home with one (or more).

Photo at top courtesy of Sisley Paris; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Favorites: Facial Masks from Chantecaille, Sisley, Natura Bissé, and RéVive

I'm a firm believer in masks. They treat the skin, feel good, and relax me. I will try almost any mask, although my favorites are those that hydrate my skin, even my skin tone, exfoliate, and/or infuse my skin with ingredients that will continue to work after I remove the mask.

I have a few favorite masks - the ones to which I turn regularly. Today, I'll name them. Please remember, I have dry, somewhat sensitive skin. If your skin is oily, the masks I use will not be the best ones for you. Fortunately, there are masks for every skin type - and some masks are suitable for all skin types.

Chantecaille's Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask ($79), shown at the top of this feature, is the one I use most often - simply because I treat it like a night cream, not a mask. I do not remove it. Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask soothes, brightens, and hydrates dry, irritated skin and is especially indicated for over-exposure to the elements. Jasmine is extremely effective in promoting cellular turnover without the potential irritation of acids.

The bulb from a special breed of lily oxygenates and purifies the skin, increasing microcirculation, reducing redness, and noticeably lightening dull complexions. Chamomile helps calms inflammation. Vitamin B5 aids in the repair of damaged tissue. Saccharides work to soften dry skin and contribute long-term moisture. Macadamia oil, rich in nutrients, is highly nourishing and moisturizing. Seaweed helps regulate sebum production for smooth, clear skin. Jasmine aligns the spiritual and physical for a sense of security in the body, a deeply centered and joyous feeling. Rose soothes and uplifts, helping to open the heart and promote a sense of well-being. Geranium has wonderful balancing properties, promotes healing, and stimulates the lymphatic system.

I apply this mask generously, then I leave it on my skin and go to bed. Most of it absorbs quickly. It does its work overnight, and when I awaken, my skin looks moisturized and refreshed. I love it.

Sisley's Black Rose Cream Mask ($158) is another favorite. I have to admit that I love every one of Sisley's masks, and I frequently use them all (not at the same time). This one is my favorite. I even love the color of the tube.

Black Rose Cream Mask is the first Sisley mask enriched with anti-aging ingredients. A soothing mask rich in trace elements, vitamins, and plant extracts, it works instantly on the signs of aging and fatigue to restore vitality to the skin.

Smoothing and Plumping Actions
 
Extract of black rose will offer an instant tensor effect, smoothing with antioxidant properties.
Three anti-aging ingredients contribute to smoothing and plumping.

• Extract of alkekengi calyx, which has anti-collagenase and anti-free radical action;
• Extract of padina pavonica to stimulate the synthesis of GAGs;
• Vitamin E acetate to reinforce the skin's natural defenses.

Revitalizing Actions

• Extract of red vine leaf to tone skin and improve radiance
• Extract of chlorella to stimulate superoxide dismutase activity, which protects skin from free radicals
• Essential oil of geranium to stimulate the skin

Soothing and Softening Actions

• Extract of great mullein (new active ingredient) to fight free radicals and soothe the skin
• Shea butter, which protects, moisturizes, and soothes
• Pro-vitamin B5 to soften and moisturize
• Essential oils of rose and magnolia, also for soothing

Nourishing, Moisturizing, and Repairing Actions

• Vegetable glycerine to moisturize
• Phytosqualene, with emollient and moisturizing properties
• Shea butter to nourish and repair

Sisley's Black Rose Cream Mask was an instant hit on introduction. Its one I will never be without.

Natura Bissé's Tolerance Enzyme Peel ($150) is a perfect mask for those with sensitive skin. I have used it since its introduction, and I'm totally smitten. This enzymatic peel for delicate skin must have been made for me - and possibly you?

Tolerance Enzyme Peel is an exceptionally effective and gentle exfoliator that was developed "based on cutting-edge cosmetic engineering with a blend of ingredients that emit ultra-soft vibrations and provide a multi-sensory experience."

Tolerance Enzyme Peel gently pampers the skin with a non-aggressive (granule-free) micro-exfoliation of the most damaged layers of the skin, revealing an even, smooth, soft, and luminous appearance. Ideal for all skin types, especially the most sensitive and delicate skins, Tolerance Enzyme Peel is formulated with prickly pear (opuntia ficus) and papaya (carica papaya) extracts that exfoliate and renew the skin from within by stimulating a natural self-exfoliating process. The peel also includes a botanical extract of chamomile that soothes, decongests, and maintains the skin’s natural pH balance and a sugar extract from bio-fermented zea mays, along with other derma-soothing and moisturizing ingredients that will help you maintain a porcelain complexion. It does this without without causing any inflammation, redness, or feelings of discomfort. I can attest, through use, that it's ideal for the most sensitive and delicate skins. It was designed to work for all skin types.

I was afraid to try Tolerance Enzyme Peel at first. It contains salicylic acid, an ingredient that burns my skin on contact more often than not. I chatted for a long time with Natura Bissé's National Director of Sales when she was at Neiman Marcus. She assured me that my skin wouldn't react to Tolerance Enzyme Peel, and she gave me samples to try (and later sent more). She was absolutely, totally, 100% correct. Not only did it not irritate my sensitive skin, it improved it. What's totally amazing is that it "does its thing" in only a few minutes, which will leave anyone who says exfoliation is too much trouble at a loss for words.

Here are the benefits, according to Natura Bissé.

• Non-aggressive exfoliation
• Upon application to skin, the gel texture adheres to the epidermis and perfectly lifts off the dead cells
• Allows for exfoliation in the more delicate areas of the face (eye contour and lip area)
• Your skin is left smooth and velvety; its texture is visibly refined
• Deep sensation of well-being; your face breathes and glows with a natural radiance
• Ideal treatment to alternate with Natura Bissé's fabulous Glyco Extreme Peel during the resting periods
• Does not cause photosensitivity, but using sunscreen during the treatment (an SPF 30 at a minimum) is recommended

The experience of using Tolerance Enzyme Peel is extremely pleasant. Apply it with average thickness all over your face (and neck if you wish). Massage the product with ascending circular movements until the texture liquefies on the skin. That takes about a minute or less. Once the peel liquifies, you can wash it off, but you really should continue to gently massage your face for a short time, ensuring you dislodge any dead skin cells and dissolve impurities. Natura Bissé recommends that you then perform gentle friction maneuvers using the tips of the fingers, area by area, and always holding the skin. You don't have to perform that step (in my opinion); a gentle massage wherever you applied the product works just fine. Remove the excess product with a sponge moistened with warm water - or just wash it off as I do. It's easy to use, fast, effective - and best of all, gentle.

How does my skin look after I use Tolerance Enzyme Peel? Smooth, even-toned, pore-free, and glowing. It leaves me with a healthy, rosy glow (not red), a glow that I don't have naturally. My skin feels smooth and clean, without any dryness that might be caused by stripping the skin's moisture. How perfect could it be?

RéVive Glycolic Renewal Peel ($295) was inspired by Dr. Gregory Brown's clinical work and the scientific heritage of the  brand. This high-performance, professional peel system for at-home use requires no downtime and produces no lingering redness. This advanced, easy-to-use, two-step, skin-transforming system reveals skin that looks younger, smoother, brighter, more even-toned and overall healthier – immediately and in the future.

The peel set comes with a jar of 30 Professional Cleaning Pads and a bottle of Professional Renewal Gel. There is glycolic acid in both, but at different concentrations. You are supposed to use the complete system one to two times per week at night. I think the instruction to use it at night is aimed at letting your skin rest and renew.

For Step 1, you use the Glycolic Renewal Peel Professional Cleansing Pad by gently sweeping it in circular motions across freshly cleansed skin to prepare the skin for Step 2 of the system. This is a refreshing step.

For Step 2, you squeeze a generous, quarter-sized amount of Professional Renewal Gel into the palm of your hand, and, using your fingertips, gently apply a liberal amount of the gel to your face. Leave it on for up to five minutes and then rinse it off with water. It may tingle a little bit during that five minutes. That tells me the peel is working, but if you feel the tingle is uncomfortable, wash it off at four minutes. It's as easy as that.

Follow with RéVive serum and moisturizer - or your favorite nighttime serum and moisturizer. I would not recommend using a serum or moisturizer with retinol immediately after the peel. RéVive recommends that you use an SPF moisturizer during the day for sun protection and to preserve results from the Glycolic Renewal Peel Professional System. You might also want to consider using the peel on your chest, shoulders, and the backs of your hands to achieve the same smoothing, exfoliating benefits. The glycolic acid in the peel is tempered by moisturizing and treatment ingredients, such as glycerin, pentylene glycol (humectant), arginine, and camellia oleifera leaf extract.

As always, Dr. Brown has created a perfectly crafted product for me - and I suspect his millions of other devotees. Each time I have used the peel, I have been thrilled with the results, which are immediate. My skin feels smooth (you get the imagery) and fresh to the touch, and I can see the results in the mirror. My skin tone is evened, and my skin glows the way healthy skin should. This peel works (unlike other new ones I've tried in the last year). It's pricey, but on a per-use basis, it's much less expensive than going for a peel at a spa, dermatologist's, or clinic.

I could write all night because there are many worthy masks. These are the ones I use most frequently, but they are not the only ones I use. I decide which mask to use based on what I think my skin needs, whether it be hydration, soothing, or exfoliation. I hope you will find one you like. It just takes trial and sometimes error.

 Photos courtesy of the brands mentioned here

Sisley L'Orchidée Rose Blush Highlighter from the City Muse Collection for Fall 2013

Like a melting pot buzzing with energy and creativity, the city is a bubbling whirlpool of effervescence. From Paris to New York, from London to Milan, the Sisley woman is decidedly urban this autumn. Her world spans major international capital cities, where businesswomen flourish. Pounding the streets of the grand boulevards or flitting between high-society dinner parties, she exudes androgynous elegance with the added twist of ultra-feminine makeup.

Perhaps not my lifestyle, but...
In the fall, our complexions lighten; summer’s sun-kissed looks fade away to leave a transparent, hopefully luminous, and pinkish complexion. This fall, color takes center stage. Sisley's L'Orchidée Rose Blush Highlighter ($108) is the perfect complement to dramatic eyes and intense lips. It will not compete with them. You have seen the minimal cheek color for fall. This one, composed of three shades, which can be blended in infinite variations to illuminate the complexion, is perfect.

L’Orchidée Rose colors and enhances the complexion with an easy-to-apply and endlessly adjustable luminous veil. Its trio of ultra-luminous shades is specially designed to beautify and sculpt the face: three soft, slightly pearly shades that refract the light and offer a gorgeous glow.

L'Orchidée Rose adds a subtle pink sheen that will brighten up your winter complexion like a breath of fresh air for the face - light due to the airy and silky formula with micronized pigments and extracts of hydrating white lily. The color is a beautiful, pure pink - perfect for me.

I took swatch photos this past weekend - after I purchased L'Orchidée Rose. I swatched at the top of my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator and below with a blush brush. I think the color is marvelous. It has life without "in your face" shimmer.

You can see in the photo directly above that the gleaming finish is beautiful and natural. I can use it as a blush; others may find it a perfect highlighter. No matter what your skin tone, you can find a way to beautify your face with this gorgeous color.

Sisley’s City Muse makeup collection is now arriving at 95 luxury retailers nationwide, including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and select locations of Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's. There are other pieces in the collection that I was not able to purchase. You really need to see the whole display. It's gorgeous.

Photo at top courtesy of Sisley; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sisley Phyto-Ombre Glow Metallic Eye Shadow from the City Muse Collection for Fall 2013

Sisley's new, unique Phyto-Ombre Glow ($52) eye shadows (I'll bet they will serve beautifully as highlighters too) caught my eyes the moment I saw them a few weeks ago. Silver Glow, Pearl Glow, Gold Glow, and Amber Glow all went on my to-buy list, and I was able to purchase them Saturday. They had arrived at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie on Friday. The ultra-soft, exceptionally fine illuminating eye shadows are designed to give the benefits of a powder, cream, and molded formula in one instantly blending gel system.

Phyto-Ombre Glow is a next-generation eye shadow that captures and diffuses light in a captivating pearlescent halo. It has a cutting-edge technology, unrivaled formula with a host of benefits.

Extremely light and comfortable to wear, this shadow adheres better to the eyelid and is lighter than your typical powder - and more velvety than a cream. Invisible, and with an incomparable glide-on application, this subtle shadow works into your skin effortlessly with no risk of overdoing it. It layers perfectly.

Mother of pearl is in the formula to catch the light from every angle and deliver breathtaking radiance to the eyes. Breakthrough color control with its talc-free, residue-free formula offers ultra-luminescent and thoroughly pure color with a translucent finish. These shadows can be worked in infinite ways for many looks, from intense metallic to subtle shimmer.

Here is a photo of all my new treasures. From left to right, they are Silver Glow, Pearl Glow, Gold Glow, and Amber Glow. You can see that the surface of each is waved - just a little extra to make them especially beautiful in their compacts.

What can I tell you about their formula? Here us what Sisley says.

• Talc-free, residue-free formula for ultra-luminescent and thoroughly pure color with a translucent finish 
• An unprecedented percentage of mother of pearl to catch the light from every angle and deliver radiance to the eyes
• To be worked in infinite ways, for a versatile make-up result: light and natural through to more intense, more metallic, bold looks
• Enriched in green tea leaf, white lily petal extracts, and camellia oil, it softens and respects the skin of the eyelids

I took swatch photos in full sun after swatching with a sponge-tipped applicator. I swatched in the same order above, from Silver Glow at the top of my arm to Amber Glow at the bottom.

The colors are all gorgeous to my eyes. How would I ever have selected just one? They adhere to my lid beautifully, and they gleam with a sophisticated brilliance. Do I have a favorite shade? Not really, but I love the way the champagne Pearl Glow looks on me.

Sisley's trainer told me they were best applied with our fingertips. Sisley's Web site recommends use of the sponge-tipped applicator that comes with each compact or fingertips for application. Take your pick.

This is the part where I drool. You really must try these new eye shadows. Finally, you should be able to find them at your favorite Sisley counter. My online search found them available at Nordstrom's Web site.  Need help? Call Vicki Hamilton at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

Photo at top courtesy of Sisley; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sunday This and That - Featuring Le Métier de Beauté, Chanel, and More

I was so excited that Le Métier de Beauté's Carnaby Street had arrived - until I wasn't. Only the tester arrived at Neiman Marcus, so I couldn't purchase it. I did get a photo of "the real thing." Now, you can see that the colors are gorgeous, and the bottom shade is blue, not teal. I am hoping that the for-sale product arrives this week (a regional rep told me it "probably" would).

I started off Saturday with a nice, intimate blogger event hosted by Kara Manos of Politics of Pretty.  Kara, dressed in a trendy outfit that only the beautiful and young can wear, calls herself obsessed with beauty products. She showed us her favorite new products - all sold at Neiman Marcus, the co-sponsor, of course. Among her favorites? Giorgio Armani's new Rouge Ecstasy, Diorshow mascara, Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Colour SPF 15, and Guerlain's Météorites. As we watched, we ate finger food and drank mimosas. Nice way to start the day!

After the show, I went downstairs to pick up my Beauty Event purchases, then I got in my car and went to Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie - and hung out for three hours! During that time, I got a look at new Chanel Rouge Allure lipsticks. You know how photos of photos taken indoors can be dark and dingy. I figure they are better than nothing.

Chanel's luminous Collection Moiré has been arriving in pieces. Gabrielle Chanel is said to have loved silk moiré fabric for its changing glints in different lighting. This new collection mirrors the fabric's luminous finish. This time, the for-sale Rouge Allure lipsticks had arrived without the testers. The Le Vernis shades in the collection had also arrived, but the Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss, lip definers, and Aqua Crayons had not. We looked at the for-sale colors but it was hard to judge them since we couldn't test them. My first impression is that the colors are saturated.

I'm more excited about Chanel's Nuit Infini de Chanel Collection for Holiday 2013. I'm sure you have seen photos of it on European blogs. Designed to capture the endless mystery of an exciting night, Ombres Matelassé ($80) will be the star of the show. With beiges and bronze, the shadows should be gorgeous. This palette will be available in October.

At long last, Chantecaille's new Cheek Crèmes have arrived. They are now sold without a compact, the refillable Pebble Compact, so the overall initial price, color insert and compact, has increased. That didn't stop me from buying both shades. I'm not sure where I'll find the compacts, since they already sold out at Neiman Marcus. I really don't want to wait for them to restock, so I will check the company's Web site. I have photos of the new shades and will show you tomorrow.

For those of you who were frustrated by your inability to find Sisley's gorgeous new color collection, it arrived at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie on Friday. I have swatch photos and will show you early this week.

Recommended Sources
Le Métier de Beauté: Michael Reinhardt or Chae Edwards at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236.
Chanel: Nicki Hashemi can be reached at the same extensions, (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236.
Sisley: Vicki Hamilton at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.
Chantecaille: Jeannine Barnes at (202) 966-9700, extension 2289.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sisley's New Abundance of Colorful Riches for Fall 2013: City Muse

Last week, I had an opportunity to see Sisley-Paris' new color story for fall: City Muse. I was totally smitten and can't wait for the new collection to arrive at counters. I think we can expect to see the stunning colors arrive this month - hopefully in time for Neiman Marcus' Beauty Event.

Most of my photos (with the exception of the one directly above) were taken indoors at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie. There are many new colors you will want to check out.

The unique Phyto-Ombre Glow eye shadows (I'll bet they will serve beautifully as highlighters too) caught my eyes immediately. Silver Glow, Pearl Glow, Gold Glow, and Amber Glow all went on my to-buy list. I didn't get a price, but I think it's between $40 and $50 each.

Mother of pearl is in the formula to catch the light from every angle and deliver breathtaking radiance to the eyes. Breakthrough color control with its talc-free, residue-free formula offers ultra-luminescent and thoroughly pure color with a translucent finish. These shadows can be worked in infinite ways for many looks, from intense metallic to subtle shimmer.

I learned that these cream-to-powder shadows are meant to be applied with our fingers. I tried it in the store, and my fingers applied them perfectly. I spent the rest of the evening lopsided, wearing Silver Glow on one eye and Gold Glow on another.

L'Orchidée Rose is much like the Palette Orchidée Highlighter Blush with White Lily ($108) that was introduced in Spring-Summer 2012. It's much lighter in color, though. While you can't see that in my dark photo above, if you enlarge the photos at the top of this feature, you'll see. It's drop-dead gorgeous.

I'm assuming it brings to the forefront the same qualities as its predecessor. Freshness and warmth blend together for a luminous, translucent, and gorgeous finish. L'Orchidée Rose combines the latest technological advances in makeup with Sisley's skin-care expertise. It's feather-light, silky, blendable texture adheres perfectly to the skin, thanks to a complex of esters, mother of pearl, and silicone that ensure a perfect second-skin appearance and buildable coverage. The powder will enhance luminosity and add softness to the skin.

Incredibly lightweight, the L'Orchidée Rose powder has a special coating to provide translucency and light. The colors will remain pure and radiant with wear, thanks to micronized pigments. Extract of white lily provides a moisturizing and emollient effect to leave the skin velvety smooth, enhance the complexion, and provide skin-care benefits.

The three powder eye shadows you see in the photos above are re-promotes - great colors for fall: Midnight Blue, Black Diamond, and Ultraviolet. There are two lip glosses in the collection: #8, Pink, and #9, Plum. They are priced at $55.

I wasn't expecting a blockbuster color collection from Sisley for fall. Now, I'm counting the days until I can purchase the colors. I want all four of the Phyto-Ombre Glow eye shadows and L'Orchidée Rose - at the very least. There is also new Sisley skin care I mentioned recently. I'm giving my samples a workout and will let you know what I think. Early results are excellent.

Look for this beautiful collection soon at Sisley counters. I'm saving up.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sisley Paris Botanical D-Tox Detoxifying Night Treatment

Sisley has introduced a new detoxifying night treatment, Botanical D-Tox ($240), a one-month treatment that works while you sleep. Our sleeping time is said to be the most favorable time for cellular regeneration, necessary to combat the signs of aging. That's why you use Botanical D-Tox at night.

The predecessor product (Sero-Botanique) to Botanical D-Tox was extremely effective, but it had a strong odor - natural, but strongly "medicinal." The odor turned me off. I love natural fragrances, but it was just too strong for my nose. Who wants to go to bed feeling assaulted? (Sorry, Sisley!) This new product has a refreshing, natural botanical fragrance, due, no doubt, to the lavender, rosemary, and sage. The scent relaxes me.

Botanical D-Tox is highly concentrated in plant extracts. It intervenes globally at three major levels of the skin's detoxification chain. It performs its magic with a long list of main components, some of which were tested ex vivo and some in vitro.

• Peptidic rice extract (a new Sisley ingredient) promotes the detoxification of cells by stimulating the elimination of damaged proteins.
• Einkorn wheat extract combats the oxidative stress that accelerates the aging of our skin.
• Ginkgo biloba extract promotes cutaneous micro-circulation.
• Rosemary extract stimulates and tones.
• Hop extract revitalizes the skin.
• Sage and rosemary essential oils purify and help the skin regain its optimal tone.
• Matricaria chamomile flower extract softens and smoothes.
• Marjoram essential oil calms the skin.
• Lavender essential oil possesses balancing properties (and its fragrance puts me in the mood to sleep).
• Vegetable glycerine moisturizes.
• Shea butter nourishes.
• Sunflower oil loosens dead skin cells and surface "gunk"

Sisley calls Botanical D-Tox a "shock treatment" for your skin. That sounds a bit dramatic.  What is really does is remove the toxins from your skin, purifying it, and stimulate your skin's natural defenses against oxidative stress.

This fluid, fresh, non-oily emulsion is designed to be used as a one-month treatment by applying it after cleansing before bed time to the face, neck, and chest area on its own or under your usual night cream. It's moisturizing enough that you don't need to cover it with moisturizer, but you can if your skin is very dry.

Who is it for?
Botanical D-Tox was created for everyone who needs an intensive anti-aging treatment. If you feel your complexion has dulled or you have noticed accentuated lines or stress in your face, you will love this one-month luxurious treatment. It will restore your good looks.

I have extremely sensitive skin. I've used it with no side effect - only fabulous results for one week (Sisley representatives gave me enough samples for a week). I noticed an improvement in my skin after the first night of use. It's also said to be suitable for those with oily skin because it's non-comedogenic.

The treatment is ideal for city dwellers, who are exposed to more air pollution than those who live in rural areas. It's particularly useful for night owls, who tend to neglect their skin and sleep time.

What results can you expect?
From the very first days of use, you skin should be more beautiful, and your expression lines (don't we all prefer to call them that?) will be relaxed. Your skin should be energized and better prepared to benefit from your usual daily skin care.

How often should you use it? 
It's a pricey treatment (although no pricier than other luxury treatments from lines like La Mer). If you are going to invest in it, how long should your investment last? One bottle will take care of your one-month treatment, and you may have some product left. That will depend on how heavily you apply the emulsion. I found that I needed very little to cover my entire face and neck - and that's unusual because my face slurps products. My Sisley representatives recommend that you consider repeating the one-month treatment every three to six months, depending on how you feel your skin looks. It's up to you.

You can find this wonder-product at all Sisley counters. If you have questions or want help, call Loula Ayoub at Tysons at (703) 761-1600, extension 3230, or Vicki Hamilton at Mazza Gallerie at (202) 966-9700, extension 2288. They would be happy to help you - they are good people.

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Sisley Phyto-Blush Éclat

Sisley's Phyto-Blush Éclat ($88) has made its new debut in a snazzy zebra-striped case. I couldn't resist, even though the new blushes are the same as the old ones, with one new shade added along with the amazing case. This is the kind of blusher you wouldn't mind pulling out in public. You could use its own brush that rests in the palette.

I have to show you the case. I don't usually dwell on cases, particularly when they are the same as every other like case in a brand (e.g., all eye shadow quad compacts). In this case, the look is noteworthy. Is it classy, or what?

Sisley Phyto-Blush Éclat is "radiance revealed, in a single sweep. Its high-tech texture reveals and beautifies the complexion, while leaving the skin soft and comfortable.

Ultra-fine, unctuous and silky, for a light, astonishing translucent and long-lasting makeup result."

Sisley's wonderful blushes adapt to all skin tones and looks, from the most natural to the most sophisticated. I'm living proof. I tried all the new shades, and there wasn't a single one I couldn't wear! That's impressive. Of course, it made for a terrible decision-making process. Would I purchase one, two, or even more?

I got rational and choose one to start: Pinky Rose (#4). I took swatch photos in full sunlight, applying the blush heavily at the top of my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator and fairly heavily below with a brush.

Pinky Rose is a natural for me, and I love it. That said, I still want Pink Berry and Peach and... I think the Sisley gals were amused by my indecision.

This is a gorgeous blush. Yes, it's a bit pricey. Sisley color usually is. You always get some nice skin-care ingredients with Sisley color, so that's how I justify it. Here are the key active ingredients in Phyto-Blush Éclat.

• Woodmallow extract: moisturizes and softens
• Linden extract: softens, soothes
• Corn: nourishes, increases hydration
• Gardenia extract: softens, moisturizes
• Ginkgo biloba extract: boosts surface microcirculation, fights free radicals 
• Rosehip extract: tones

This blush applies beautifully - sheerly, but with buildable color. It makes me look perky. I am almost sure that a second shade is in my immediate future - probably the plummy Pink Berry. I wish my bathroom were larger. I could display them all!

I purchased my Sisley Phyto-Blush Éclat at Neiman Marcus. You can find it at any Sisley counter.

Update: I forgot I had this photo, taken in terrible store lighting, of the new blush display. Ta da!

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

New: Sisley Phyto Lip Gloss

Sisley has all new Phyto Lip Glosses ($55) - shinier, more lustrous, and so fabulous you will need more than one. I did. When Alfredo Lizardi, makeup artist extraordinaire, was at Neiman Marcus recently, the testers (shown above) has arrived, but not the product for sale. They finally showed up, and I made my first purchase of these gorgeous glosses. They are pricey. Let's get that out of the way. Fortunately, they are large.

Alfredo had selected #05, Bois de Rose, for me (shown above at left). Together we choose #07, Brun (shown at right). Both are gorgeous - pigmented, shiny, and with a superb feel. Sisley's Phyto Lip Glosses are said to be more comfortable than a classic gloss and more shiny than a lipstick. Yep.

How do they merit the price? Sisley’s skin-care expertise is translated into a color product that's enriched with active ingredients. Sisley calls it "treatment makeup."

• A real treatment formula that moisturizes, softens, and smoothes lips
• A nourishing formula that protects, soothes, and repairs from external aggressions

Now, for the part you can see and feel...

• Unparalleled shine with optimal light refraction for a plumped-up effect
• Moisturized, smoothed, and plumped lips every day
• Sensory, practically imperceptible on lips and non-sticky
• Leaves a veil characterized by comfort and subtle fineness, for a cocooning effect
• Delicately scented with refreshing mint and tea leaf notes

These glosses have superb color. Take a look at my swatch photos, which were taken in full sun. I absolutely love glosses I can wear as both lipstick and lip gloss. These fit the bill.

I remember rushing to get these photos. I'm sorry my application wasn't perfectly even. Even without perfect application, you should be able to see the remarkable color they provide. Bois de Rose is a perfect rose shade. I'd call it rosewood on my lips. The Brun shade leans mauve, with its heavy dose of rose in the cool brown base. Gorgeous!

Is there anything not to love about these new glosses? Not in my opinion! I'll be going back for more shades.

I know many of you care about ingredients. I do too. Fortunately, Sisley lists the key therapeutic ingredients of Phyto Lip Glosses on its Web site.

• Extrait de padina pavonica: boosts the synthesis of GAGs and hyaluronic acid, source of hydration, for a natural plumping effect
• Shea butter: nourishes, soothes, repairs, softens
• Kokum butter: nourishes, protects, repairs
• Sunflower oil: nourishes, softens, revitalizes
• Rapeseed oila: brings lipids, protects
• Vitamin E: protects

Want to see Sisley's Phyto Lip Gloss? Just drop by any Sisley counter. I purchased mine at Neiman Marcus. You can find them online at this Sisley link.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sunday This and That - Plus Fun with Sisley's Alfredo Lizardi

I am heartbroken. I learned this morning that our panda cub at the National Zoo had died. I think I cried for an hour, and I spontaneously cried all day.

We were all so excited by the birth of Mei Xiang's cub last weekend. All week, zookeepers told he the cub and his mother showed signs of health and well-being. Suddenly, NBC Washington announced on Facebook that the baby had died. "Panda keepers and volunteers heard a distress vocalization from the mother, Mei Xiang, at 9:17 a.m. and notified the veterinarian staff immediately," the statement read, in part. "The panda cam was turned off and the staff were able to safely retrieve the cub for an evaluation at 10:22 a.m. Veterinarians immediately performed CPR and other life-saving measures but the cub did not respond."

DC is going to be in mourning. It's a very sad day - for us and for the world of panda lovers. You may think we are consumed by politics here, but I assure you that panda was more important to us than any politician.

It seems incongruous to jump from such sad thoughts to happy ones, but I'm going to do it - partly to keep from descending into total depression. I feel like one of my own died.

The adorable, delightful, and talented Sisley makeup artist Alfredo Lizardi applied my makeup Friday evening. I went over to Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria after work and had a blast. He is so much fun!

I'm always wary of makeup artists. More often than not, I go straight home after a session and wash my face. Not this time! I wished I had had somewhere to go Friday night. When Alfredo finished, I thought I looked good. He asked me about the kind of look I wanted, and we decided on natural, but with pizazz. He entertained me as he worked. Here you can see were were both smiling about something as Simone took our photo. We may have been laughing about the prior photo, which I was sure made me look like an eagle (not in a majestic way).

Alfredo used all Sisley products on me, including a new clump-free mascara that I will show you this week. It's a new formulation, and it comes in black, brown, and blue. He used black on me, but when I found out from my Sisley friends it came in blue, I pulled out my charge card for the second time that night.

The two eye shadows he selected for me are gorgeous. Sorbet (#2) and Stardust (#7) came home with me. They are both shimmering (how did he know I prefer shimmer?). Sorbet is a light, natural peach shade, and Stardust is a green-silver hybrid. Like grey greens? Stardust will make you enormously happy. Of course, I had to get photos of them today.

Alfredo selected a lip gloss for me. Sisley has a collection of new ones. They are shown in the photo below. He choose Rosewood, with my hearty consensus. Then we found out the tester unit had arrived, but not the for-sale products. Darn! I was ready to buy Rosewood and another (#5 and #7) - for a start.

The nice thing about these fabulous glosses is that they are extremely saturated and offer a shimmering finish. I may end up with five, or six, or whatever. They meet all my criteria for a great gloss.

Sisley has also repackaged its blushes, giving them a zebra theme. This in-store photo is not color-true. They are much prettier. Once they arrive, I'll buy a few and feature them.

Here we are when Alfredo finished. That's as close a photo as I'll ever show. Once you're two years out from qualifying for Medicare, you do not relish close-up photos. Isn't he a doll? After my makeup had been perfected, we took off and played with perfume. He mentioned to me that he liked the new Tom Ford Noir, and I wanted to share with him a few other Tom Fords I thought he might like. Loula was so sweet. She got samples of Noir, the new Ombre de Hyacinth (which he loved), and others so that we could send Alfredo home as happy as I was.

If you ever get a chance to jump in his chair, do it! He has the right touch.

Speaking of my favorite makeup artists, Tim Quinn from Giorgio Armani Beauty will be at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria on Saturday, October 13. If you are a DC-area local, you might want to call to make an appointment. I'll take care of my favorite sales associate there and ask you to call Loula Ayoub at (703) 761-1600, extension 3230, to make an appointment with Tim. Loula is one of the the most successful sales associates at the store (if not the most), and there's a great reason for her success. She is a consistent paragon of customer service.

The Saks Fifth Avenue beauty event starts this week on Thursday. The totes look pretty, so I've pre-ordered. I have purchased enough to get the two I want (blue and green). I use them to carry my laptop and/or iPad - and often food - to work. If you need help, give Loyd Cassler or Georgia Marmaras a call at Chanel at (240) 497-5363 or (240) 497-5301. They asked me to convey their gratitude to those of you who called to order the Blue Illusion de Chanel Collection.

In closing, I love my new striped three-quarter sleeve tee. It was a birthday present from a friend. I want more of them! Wouldn't navy and red stripes look nice? Or solids.

Photo at top courtesy of the National Zoo; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Heat Relief: Sisley Paris Eau Florale - Floral Spray Mist

Last week, when I had no power, I wanted little more than my power and Internet connection back. The heat wave has been record-breaking. It was too hot to wear makeup or worry about my hair. I did enjoy one product, Sisley's Eau Florale (Botanical Floral Spray Mist) ($98). I emptied my container and had to replace it yesterday.

Spray this fine, floral-scented mist on your face, and you'll cool down as the tiny beads of this alcohol-free orange blossom, rose, cornflower, and witch hazel waters provide an instant feeling of cooling - and hydration - as they air-dry. You can spray it on a bare face or over makeup to set your look. Either way, you'll find it a luxurious treat.

I love the mist. It's precisely calibrated to come out of the nozzle as a light mist, not a stream or heavy spray. It could not be more perfect. I wouldn't want to be without Eau Florale - especially in the summer!

When I stopped by Neiman Marcus at Tysons Galleria yesterday to visit with my Sisley friends, I came home with a cooling eye mask. Turns out Sisley counters were treating their customers really well. Glad I went!

Later this month, the Sisley Paris counter at Neiman Marcus at Tysons Galleria is having a special event with national trainer Anita Bahramy (I adore her and can't wait to see her again). It's on a Saturday, and a training session will be held off the floor before special, personalized one-on-one's are provided. If you've ever wondered about this fabulous line - skin care, makeup, and fragrance, and you are local to DC, it would be a great time to go. Just call the Sisley counter at (703) 761-1600, extension 3230, to make an appointment.

If you want to treat yourself in this heat, try Eau Florale. The feeling and fragrance are worth the price.

Photo courtesy of Sisley

Sisley Hydrating Long Lasting Lipstick for Spring 2012

The highly anticipated new shades of Sisley's Hydrating Long Lasting Lipstick ($55) for Spring 2012 arrived. We knew they were coming. I had hoped to see them with the rest of the Tropical Orchid Look for Spring 2012, including the amazingly gorgeous Palette Orchidée Highlighter Blush. Maybe the staggered introductions give us a reason to keep checking back with Sisley!

The collection was inspired by the soft yet exuberant colors of Southeast Asian landscapes,combining warm and cool colors for a vibrant chiaroscuro effect. The four new shades of Hydrating Long Lasting Lipstick bring the number of color options in the line to 25.

This soft, finely textured lipstick is a comfortable, full-coverage lipstick that offers protective, moisturizing benefits to the lips. It feels great on the lips, while offering:

• flawless, long lasting hold;
• full coverage thanks to a glide-on, satiny texture that does not bleed or settle into lines; and
• clean, precise definition with a unique beveled, spiral form of bullet.

Sisley recommends that you start your application by defining the lip contour using a matching shade of lip liner. I don't bother. For more voluptuous lips, apply a touch of lip gloss over the lipstick. I do bother - not for the moisture, but for the shine. The wonderful active ingredients of Hydrating Long Lasting Lipstick include calendula to soften and vitamins C and E, antioxidants to protect against free radicals.

The new shades are Rose Fushia (L32 - can any makeup company spell this word correctly?), Rose Cashmere (L32), Rouge Passion (L33), and Rose Petunia (L34). You can see little color squares at this Neiman Marcus link. I tried all four and settled quickly on Rose Cashmere. I loved the warmth of the pink. The two other new rose shades are very bright, and the rouge red shade is way too dark for me.

You can see how pretty the shade looks in full sun - a warm pink that reflects light nicely. It is not this shiny in the shade or indoors. I really like this color, and I think it coordinates beautifully with Palette Orchidée.

Here's another full-sun photo directly above. On my lips, the shade is a warm coral-pink. It looks much less pink and much warmer than it appears in these photos. That's one reason I selected Rose Cashmere. I wanted to broaden my color wardrobe.

What do I improve it? I add a lip gloss. I like shine, and Hydrating Long Lasting Lipstick, designed to last on your lips, is fairly devoid of shine. No problem there; I have at least four lip glosses with me any time I leave the house.

Next time you swing by your local Sisley counter, ask to see the new shades. Although they are pricey, like the La Prairie lip colors, they are beautiful.

Photo at top courtesy of Sisley Paris; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sisley Palette Orchidée for Spring Summer 2012

It's here - the one we've eagerly anticipated for months! I wasted no time in picking up Sisley's beautiful new Palette Orchidée Highlighter Blush with White Lily ($108) for Spring-Summer 2012. It's every bit as gorgeous as we expected.

Palette Orchidée is the centerpiece of Sisley's Tropical Orchid Collection. Isn't it heavenly? For the first time, Sisley is showcasing the emblematic orchid, which adorns all of its products, in a trio of luminous and subtly pearly sun-kissed shades in Palette Orchidée. The highlighting blush with white lily sculpts the face and illuminates the complexion - so perfectly it's remarkable.

In the gleaming silver compact, also stamped with Sisley's iconic orchid, there are three pink-peach shades sculpted in a petal design. Coral pink is interlaced with a delicate silky light brown and sprinkled with gold and pink "dust." Freshness and warmth blend together for a luminous, translucent, and gorgeous finish.

The Palette Orchidée combines the latest technological advances in makeup with Sisley's skin-care expertise. It's feather-light, silky, blendable texture adheres perfectly to the skin, thanks to a complex of esters, mother of pearl, and silicone that ensure a perfect second-skin appearance and buildable coverage. The powder will enhance luminosity and add softness to the skin.

Incredibly lightweight, the Palette Orchidée powder has a special coating to provide translucency and light. The colors will remain pure and radiant with wear, thanks to micronized pigments. Extract of white lily provides a moisturizing and emollient effect to leave the skin velvety smooth, enhance the complexion, and provide skin-care benefits.

As the sun started to make its appearance after a cloudy morning, I dashed outside to get a few photos for you. I understand that each store is receiving limited quantifies of Palette Orchidée, so if you want one, you need to act fast. I'd want one. After seeing it, holding it, and using it, I'm giddy.

I swatched across all the shades, although the shades in the palette are large enough to use on their own. Pick your shade, pink, peach, or golden taupe, the individual shades are glorious. I applied both swatches heavily. I used a sponge-tipped applicator at the top of my arm and a dense blush brush below.

Look at the color! It's got sass and verve. It glows without any glitter ball effect. It warms the skin for spring and summer with a color that's perfect for most of us - a blend of all of the upcoming season's trendiest colors.

One of my swatch photos shows me more pink, and one shows more peach. One photo shows more shimmer than the other. That's the nature of Palette Orchidée, I've observed. It adapts to the surroundings (and I suspect your skin tone) to make you bright and gorgeous. Pink or peach, I'm super-impressed. This palette has it all: glorious, radiant color; an elegant design, and skin-care ingredients that do double duty. Some makeup makes me hyperventilate. Palette Orchidée has that effect.

Palette Orchidée arrived at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria yesterday. If you don't have a Sisley counter near you, give Loula Ayoub a call at (703) 761-1600, extension 3230, at Tysons. You can still get the Beauty Event tote too.

Next up, I want to try Sisley's new Phyto-Blanc Intense Lightening Serum. Unfortunately (for me), I may have to wait a few months while my bank account recovers from Beauty Event.

Photo at top courtesy of Sisley; other photos by Best Things in Beauty