YASOU Moisturizing Hand Cream

Days after the Fall Equinox, our weather is finally starting to cool off. Today, it is cloudy and cool at my house. It is predicted to be like this almost all week. We've gone from temperatures in the mid-90's to mid-70's, just like that.

As the weather changes, we all need to take a look at our body products and replace the moisture we lose to cool, dry air. I've started with YASOU Hand Cream ($25), which was sent to me for review. I have been using the Hand Cream for a month, and I'm impressed. Because I was originally unfamiliar with the company, I'll assume you may be too and give you a short summary YASOU.

“YASOU” (pronounced ya-su) natural skin care gets its name from a common Greek greeting meaning “to your health.” YASOU’s mission is to embrace the beauty traditions, natural ingredients, and rich culture of Greece with American technology, bringing you this luxurious natural skin-care line that makes you look and feel good.

YASOU skin care is inspired from the heart, heritage, and passion of creator Theodora Ntovas. Theodora grew up in Chicago and often traveled and lived in Greece as a child, where she spent time visiting her family and soaking up the rich Greek culture and local traditions. As an adult, Theodora felt a calling to return to the Greek village that she remembered so fondly from her childhood. That particular trip soon became a soul-searching and enlightening experience for her and changed the way she looked at the world and specifically beauty products.

While shopping a local farmer’s market, Theodora discovered the purist, most unique, organic skin-care products and was intrigued by the beautiful women who swore by them. These glorious products were made from olive oil, natural essential oils extracted from local flowers, and indigenous plants, plus organic beeswax.

Using what she learned from that small farmers market in Archia Feneos in the Peloponnese region near Corinth, Theodora educated herself in cosmetic chemistry, aromatherapy, and natural skin care solutions. Her research led her to partner with chemist/formulator Nestor Tomasi. Inspired by Greek beauty philosophy, together they developed the unique Calityl-O Complex, that became the foundation of a truly luxurious natural skin-care line. And so, YASOU was born.

This exclusive and completely natural, luxurious skin care nourishes the skin and is formulated with the highest quality natural and organic ingredients sourced from the best growers, producers, and suppliers in the United States. YASOU consists of face cream, a cellular firming and rejuvenating day cream that compliments YASOU’s anti-aging night cream with hyadisine, and the ultra hydrating body cream with essential oils and vitamin E. The ultra hydrating body cream is designed to nourish skin, help calm and relax your mind, and even help you fall asleep (I could use that). It is ideal for those special and precious “me time” moments when you want to pamper and reward your body, like having a spa experience, but at home.

YASOU Hand Cream is a vegan product made in the USA. Beautiful hands conceal our age and  sensitize our touch. We need to treat our hands with tender loving care, particularly as the weather changes and dries our skin. YASOU Vegan Hand Cream is formulated to moisturize, protect, repair, and soothe your hands. It is a natural hand cream that contains moisturizing certified organic extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, bacteria fighters, and soothing botanicals. The company's signature Calityl-O Complex nourishes all skin types. Packaged in a recyclable tube, YASOU Hand Cream protects the environment as well as your hands. In addition to its natural, certified organic, and vegan ingredients, it is gluten-free and Leaping Bunny certified. It does contain retinol, but so far I have had no adverse reactions to it.

You can use YASOU Hand Cream as many times per day as you feel you need, but the company recommends that you use it in the morning and before bed. I've been using it at bedtime because I wash my hands so frequently during the day. Charlie is not fond of scented products, but fortunately he has not objected to the natural ingredients that make the scent of YASOU Hand Cream unique. To me, it's an herbal scent.

I have copied from YASOU the long list of ingredients so that you can see how much thought the company put into the moisturizing formula. 

• Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Jojoba Oil soothes and moisturizes. Olive oil’s antioxidants form a protective barrier, trapping moisture on your skin. Jojoba oil’s vitamins, mineral, and fatty acids promote elasticity and radiance.
• Shea Butter is vitamin-rich and one of the best anti-aging moisturizers.
• Glycerin is a good re-hydrant that helps moisturize the skin without
  making it oily. It attracts moisture and holds it within the skin making skin more supple.
• Coconut Oil is a powerful moisturizer that helps restore dry or flaking skin. It helps to strengthen skin tissue more deeply and eliminates dead skin cells while absorbing quickly into your skin. Containing vitamin E, coconut oil helps delay wrinkles and can soothe skin conditions such as eczema, sunburn, and psoriasis.
• Certified Organic Aloe Vera moisturizes and hydrates the skin.
• Evening Primrose essential oil can help with age-related structural and functional changes in skin tissues such as redness, firmness, roughness, and fatigue resistance. It is also effective in relieving many symptoms of eczema.
• Lemon Extract exfoliates, brightens, and diminishes acne for smoother skin. It naturally bleaches the skin and quickens the rate in which dark spots, scars, sunspots, acne scars, and age spots fade.
• Grape Seed Extract boosts collagen development in your body. Collagen helps your skin stay firm, supple, and moisturized. It aids in the renewal of skin cells. Grape Seed Extract contains compounds called procyanidins, which bond with collagen, resulting in healthier and more elastic skin.
• Tocopherol also known as vitamin E, is an antioxidant that protects and repairs your skin. It promotes cell regeneration, creating an anti-aging effect to make your skin look and feel younger.
• Vitamin A/Retinyl Palmitate has great anti-aging, superb antioxidants, and moisturizing capabilities. It accelerates cell renewal and stimulates the fibroblast and collagen in the skin, thereby reducing wrinkles and fine lines. It helps promote softer, smoother skin.
• Mastic essential oil contains antioxidants along with antibacterial and antifungal properties. It possesses therapeutic benefits for the skin due to its soothing, softening, and healing properties. Mastic oil is used in many personal hygiene products for its antiseptic assets.
• YASOU Calityl-O Complex - The Unbeatable Combination of Nature and Science: Calityl-O is rich in important antioxidants which our skin craves. YASOU's Calityl-O Complex helps form a protective, nourishing barrier that keeps environmental damage and toxins out, while infusing and keeping the moisture of skin in, creating a perfect balance.

Natural body care starts with using the best natural and organic ingredients. YASOU Skin Care products contain no parabens, synthetic colors, or artificial fragrances. How good does it get?

Other YASOU products that might interest you include Cellular Day, Cell Renewal Night Cream, and Hydrating Body Cream - just in case the line intrigues you, but you've got a great stock of hand cream.

You can purchase the Hand Cream at YASOU's Web site, where you can also learn about the company's other products. There is a wonderful, educational section about ingredients used in YASOU products, a video, and a blog with a new feature about recognizing product ingredients. I like the Web site because it's educational and so transparent about the company and its excellent formulas. There is a store locator, but distributors are currently limited; it's easiest to buy it online.

Photos courtesy of YASOU    

Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF50 Hydrating Shield

Years ago, I started using Prevage MD, a product that is no longer on the market. I was stunned by how well it improved everything about my skin. Prevage MD was, as I understood it, the super version of regular Prevage, and who wouldn't want to use the best?

Then I was disappointed in 2009 to learn that the maker had decided to improve the formula. Unrelated story: I'll never forget a certain improvement that was made to a face cream I had used for a few years (Paula's Choice). It was for seriously dry and sensitive skin, and it worked really well. Paula decided to put retinol in it. I called the company and complained. "Don't you, the experts, know that retinol can do serious damage to sensitive skin?" The representative basically told me I was "misinformed." I guess that meant my dermatologist was misinformed about my skin too. After suffering through losing a skin treatment that had really worked for me, I was petrified when I learned that Prevage MD would be "improved," meaning replaced with regular Prevage with a lesser percentage of its active ingredient. I stopped using it. If you want to read about that story, go here.

Anyhow, Elizabeth Arden, the maker of Prevage (although not its original maker), has released a new version of Prevage that caught my eye: Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF50 Hydrating Shield ($68), a multipurpose product that really appealed to me. Before I tell you more about it, I'll share some of Elizabeth Arden's press about Prevage skin care.

Reverse the face of time, now! Scientists have proven that environmental threats are the leading cause of aging skin. Exposure to smoke, pollution, and sun can cause free radicals, leaving skin dry and uneven in tone, and increasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. That's why the scientists at Elizabeth Arden developed Prevage, the leading solution to the #1 cause of signs of aging.

These groundbreaking treatments leverage the brand’s scientific research and over a decade of leading innovation within the environmental protection category. The power of Prevage comes from Idebenone, the single most powerful antioxidant. By protecting the skin from oxidative stress, Idebenone not only shields the skin from future environmental effects, but also helps support the skin’s natural repair process and restore a youthful appearance. The look of lines, wrinkles, age spots, and sun damage are diminished as the look of firmness is improved with continuous use of Prevage.

The brand’s exclusive Idebenone Ester Technology is an advanced delivery system that fuses Idebenone with a skin compatible ester to provide a time-release reservoir of Idebenone, targeted where and when it’s most needed. This delivery system allows for a more effective and gentle use of Idebenone, even on those with sensitive skin. Idebenone has been tested under the rigorous Environmental Protection Factor TM 3 protocol, which uses a multifaceted approach to measure the power of an ingredient’s topical antioxidant performance.

EPF assesses how much protection you'll get against environmental aggressors such as stress, pollution, and smoking (God forbid) — all of which accelerate the signs of aging. When tested, Idebenone scores an EPF rating of 95 out of 100. In fact, Idebenone was proven to be more effective than the six other leading antioxidants.

The Prevage portfolio of products is large. I don't have time here to tell you about all of them, and I don't have or use all of them. I'm smitten with the newest City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF50 Hydrating Shield. I purchased mine from Nordstrom.

City Smart provides all of the wonderful features of other Prevage products, but also protects the skin with an SPF of 50. It is lightweight; you'd never know that it's so laden with sunblock.

It offers superior anti-aging technology. It’s in our DNA. Every day, in cities all over the world, the environment - from UV rays to pollution and smoke - is visibly aging your skin; in fact, 80% of all signs of skin aging are due to the environment. I'd guess genetics comes in second.

City Smart is a DNA Enzyme Complex, an anti-ollution protective agent, and an antioxidant broad spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield - all in one. It's the first-of-its-kind skin shield to combine pollution and UV protection with Arden's DNA Enzyme Complex to strengthen the skin. It provides sheer, hydrating, invisible protection to help the skin look younger, longer. Truth!

• City Smart screens out skin-dulling pollutants and 98% of UVB rays.
• It visibly improves the skin’s condition in many ways.
• Plus it's formulated with a powerful antioxidant blend to maintain optimal skin health even in the most heavily polluted environments.

Although new, it has already won a "Best Face Sunscreen 2016 award from Health.

You can find the ingredients here. Key among them are Idebenone (When compared to antioxidants in face products, Idebenone in Prevage surpasses alpha lipoic acid, kinetin, vitamin C, vitamin E, and ubiquinone in environmental protection against oxidative stress), Green Tea, Thiotaine, Ferulic Acid, and L-Carnosine, all included to neutralize free radical damage.

Enough of that scientific stuff for now. City Smart is a lovely product. It is yellow, as its predecessors were, but it does not leave the skin yellow. I could swear, though, that the pigment in the product evens out my skin tone just a tad. That's a superb "side effect." It applies easily, quickly, and evenly, and it absorbs quickly, leaving my skin look radiant and even-toned. I really can't tell it's there after I apply it. As a rule, I apply my moisturizer over it, although I believe those with oily skin will not need additional moisture. I'm just so dry!

I love the fact that my skin treatment provides a high level of sun protection, without any of the usual effects of sunscreen: tackiness, whitewash, heaviness, and other undesirable qualities. It does this through zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. If you don't react well to those physical sunblocks, this may not be the sunscreen for you.

Otherwise, I highly recommend you try it. Give it a test of a few months, and I'll bet that your skin will improve in tone, texture, hydration, and appearance. One nice thing? It's relatively inexpensive. You won't have to lay out a fortune to find out whether it works for you.

I'm excited again about Prevage. It's nice to find skin care that meets its promises. You can find Prevage City Smart and its sister products at Elizabeth Arden's Web site and Elizabeth Arden counters. There's a special promotion this week at Elizabeth Arden counters (Macy's) and the Web site. Good time to try.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Arden

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil

Not too long ago, Sephora offered a five-use sample of Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil ($105) for selection in a customer's three free samples. I was intrigued, but I saw that it contained "the next generation retinoid oil." That concerned me, given the terrible reactions I've had to retinol in the past. My dermatologist advised me to avoid it - forever.

Then, a couple of years ago, Le Métier de Beauté introduced retinol-based products that incorporated a unique, patented form of retinol encased in vitamin E to deliver the retinol into the skin and past my ultra-sensitive outer layer of skin. I could use them! It was a first. I figured that if they could do it, perhaps another company could too. Besides, my trial was free. I knew that I could withstand a day of redness if the first night went poorly.

Marketed as a next-generation retinoid oil that improves the skin's plumpness and helps fight the appearance of wrinkles, redness, and pores for visibly clearer, younger-looking skin, Luna certainly had appeal. Luna works throughout the night to deliver more visibly youthful, luminous, even-toned skin in the morning. "A trans-retinoic acid ester complex reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles, while visibly improving the signs of premature aging: fine lines, uneven texture, age spots, dryness, and dullness."

The oil contains a complex high in azulene (blue tansy, German chamomile, and cape chamomile) helps to lower the irritation associated with retinol to leave the skin calm and soothed. Cold-pressed avocado, chia (source of Omega 3), and concord grape seed oils sink in deeply for quick absorption of actives while boosting radiance. It's rich in vitamins B, C, D, E, and A and has a high sterolin content. Advanced trans-retinoid acid ester mixed with potent botanicals produce the ultimate transformative sleeping night oil. It's true!

There is a warning on the box that the first use or two may produce redness and peeling for a few days. It's temporary. I was the perfect candidate for those side effects, and I experienced nothing except mild redness on the third day of use. I skipped a night, and my face returned to normal - only better.

The effects of the ingredients?

• Helps fight the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity
• Focuses on damage caused by the sun, time, pollution, lifestyle, and stress
• Helps address the effects of skin damage with strong anti-inflammatory properties and helpful with eczema and dermatitis
• Great for plumping fine lines
• Believed to encourage a healthy inflammatory response and support the skin's ability to regulate sebum

Here are Sunday Riley's test results. I do not know their sample size.
After an independent consumer testing panel used Luna Sleeping Night Oil for four weeks...

• 100% felt the product absorbed well into the skin
• 96% of women felt their skin looked brighter and more radiant 
• 96% of women felt their skin looked healthier and revitalized
• 92% of women felt their skin tone looked more even, calmer, smoother
• 92% would recommend Luna to a family member or friend
• 88% felt their pores looked smaller
• 85% felt their fine lines and wrinkles around the forehead were visibly improved

What did I experience? In only a few days, my skin was smoother; my small pores were even smaller; and I could swear my sun spots were lighter. My skin tone was even. I looked younger. Seriously!

Needless to say, I spent the $105 and bought Luna. It is a little tricky to use. I learned from the sample pack that you apply only a few drops each evening. It's hard for me to apply only a few drops. My skin is so dry, it slurps the oil before I can get it spread evenly over my entire face. So I probably use more than Sunday Riley intended. Given the fabulous effects, I can live with that.

I apply my moisturizer over it before bed. You don't have to. I've tried it both ways, with and without moisturizer, and I've found my skin to be equally improved.

I highly recommend Luna. From my perspective, it's a revolutionary product. Have you tried it yet? It's available at Sephora. By the way, it's cruelty-free and free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalate.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

NUXE Paris Anti-Aging Roll-On Mask Nuxuriance Ultra Global Anti-Aging Re-Plumping Roll-on Mask

I absolutely love masks, so when NUXE Paris sent me a few new products to try, you can picture me reaching for the Nuxuriance Ultra Anti-Aging Roll-on Mask ($53) first. I have to admit that I was enthralled with everything in the box, especially the packaging. The dark green product boxes, holding each dark green and gold Nuxuriance product are spectacular. They look rich, luxurious, and classy. Turns out the products are too. (They even sent me a T-shirt that fits! It's cute. I was thrilled. Bloggers aren't often treated this nicely - at last I'm not.)

This NUXE Paris global anti-aging re-plumping roll-on mask with saffron and bougainvillea bi-floral cells helps smooth the skin, reshape facial contours, and enhance radiance - in one night! The first night I used it I awakened to skin that looked plumper, hydrated, rested, firm, and even-toned. I was impressed. Who was that woman in the mirror?

If you check out the ingredients at this link, you will see that the mask if filled with a garden's bounty. There is a lovely place on the NUXE Web site where you can explore the company's botanical ingredients and their beneficial effects. Please stop by to see how nature is integrated into their products. I think that's important.

I had to figure out how to use the mask, so I actually read the directions - unusual for me. You apply the mask using the "fresh effect" roll-on applicator. It feels wonderful; it cools the skin as you massage the mask into the skin. NUXE says to leave it on for 10 minutes and then remove the excess product with a cotton pad, either dry or soaked in lotion. I did that the first night I used it. Then, I figured that since the "cream" had absorbed into my skin, I'd leave it on all night. I love applying it and leaving it on. It has quickly become a habit for me. NUXE recommends you remove any excess product using the Gentle Toning Lotion before going to bed. I know; I'm a rule breaker.

To use the tube, you have to make sure to turn the applicator tip to the right, to the "ON" position (look, it's not obvious). Then use the roll-on to apply the product, working outwards from the center of your face, starting at the bottom of your face, neck, and decolleté. Remember to turn the applicator to the "OFF" position before you stow it for the night.

You can apply the mask during the day (I haven't, basically because I'm always rushing in the morning) for an immediate tensing and radiance effect: leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse off with a cotton pad soaked in toning lotion and apply your usual skin care.

I have also tried the Anti-Aging Eye & Lip Contour Nuxuriance Ultra the company sent me, and I am equally impressed. I'll tell you about it soon. In the meantime, I'd recommend that you check out the wide array of products offered by this luxury line. NUXE strives to promote sustainable development and conducts itself responsibly as a cosmetics brand by taking simple steps that are not detrimental to the environment. My kind of company! I hope it's yours too.

The NUXE Laboratory is committed to prioritizing ingredients with a natural origin and to selecting active ingredients from the plant kingdom. NUXE face products are all non-comedogenic. All NUXE products are formulated without parabens, mineral oil, and ingredients containing animal extracts. To prove the safety and effectiveness of NUXE products, all their formulas are subjected to tests carried out under dermatological supervision by external laboratories approved by the French Ministry of Research. They have collaborated on programs to build bee populations and finance the installation of an environmentally-friendly water production station in the heart of a rural village in the Kandal province of southern Cambodia. This NUXE station will ensure the village's autonomy by providing sustainable drinking water. Much like Chantecaille, one of my favorite brands, NUXE has a conscience and uses its position to improve our Earth.

You can find them at the NUXE Paris Web site and at specialty stores all over the world. Use the store locator function at this link. I do like to buy online when there are special offers. Right now, you can receive five minis with a $50 order. Temptation! Plus there are other benefits and gifts. I appreciate companies that reward my loyalty.

Update: I just saw an ad online for a 20% discount and free shipping with code FIRSTORDER.

Photo courtesy of NUXE Paris

MDSUN Intensive Eye Gel

Until I was approached by a representative of MDSUN, I had never heard of the company. Not only that, at first glance, I assumed from the company name that it was a line of sun products (ho hum). Instead, I learned quickly, it is a superb line of skin care products founded by the world-renowned cosmeceutical surgeon, Dr. George Sun, in 2001.

When Dr. Sun began developing the MDSUN line, he drew upon his extensive background as an aesthetic plastic surgeon and a biochemist. Each MDSUN product features a custom formulated base, designed with specialized ingredients that provide clinical efficacy and long-term improvement in the look and feel of skin. At the same time, MDSUN products are mild enough to for use on sensitive skin over a lifetime. MDSUN products do not require a peeling or acclimation phase in order to enhance the appearance of skin (praise the Lord!). They are safe to use pre- or post-treatment or in conjunction with surgical procedures. The line reminds me of one of my long-time favorites, RéVive developed by Dr. Gregory Brown.

MDSUN sent me two products to try, and I have been using Intensive Eye Gel ($105) for well over a month. I love it! It is a gel that acts like a cream (I'll explain below), and the dispenser allows me to pump out only the small quantity I need, avoiding waste (one of my pet peeves with luxury products).

MDSUN’s Intensive Eye Gel addresses delicate skin concerns with a unique blend of anti-aging, brightening, and hydrating ingredients, leaving the skin more firm, moisturized, and radiant. Infused with sodium hyaluronate (nature's sponge), coenzyme q10, and vitamin E - all ingredients I want in my eye cream - the gel’s formula helps to support natural collagen and elastin and softens expression lines and wrinkles, and it restores suppleness and youthfulness. Anti-fatigue agents vitamins C and K significantly reduce under-eye puffiness due to fluid retention and dark circles so that the skin looks brighter and well-rested. Precious algae and oat extracts further protect the skin against aging and environmental damage. All true! (Forgive me; I try not to use too many exclamation points, but when I get excited about a product, they slip out).

You are supposed to use Intensive Eye Gel twice/day, but I have been using it in the morning only. Still, I have realized its beneficial effects. Most impressive? I sleep on my right side, and fluid tends to build up overnight in a pocket over my right sinuses. I don't often have time to lie with frozen peas over my eyes for 20 minutes in the morning to shrink that pocket, but MDSUN does it for me within minutes. I'm impressed. It also makes my "expression lines" far less visible by plumping the thin skin around my under-eye area. I use it both under and over my eyes, and I have had absolutely no seepage into my eyes. It's a gel, but it absorbs quickly like a cream, and my makeup goes over it without any unevenness. My eye area looks hydrated all day - just like it looks when I use any of my favorite eye creams. I'm totally in love with Intensive Eye Gel.

Its key ingredients are Phytonadione (Vitamin K), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, and Algae Extract - a relatively short list, but one that's filled with excellent ingredients.

I am eager to try other products from MDSUN. They sent me a product that is laden with retinol, and I am afraid to try it (given my serious allergic reactions to retinol and my dermatologist's advice to avoid it). I just don't want to risk going to work with a burned face (although I only have a week left on this current job, so maybe I should risk it later). Here is a blurb from MDSUN's Web site on its innovative philosophy, with my comments added in parentheses. I think it's important to emphasize the company's commitment to quality and state-of-the-art beauty product manufacturing.

Innovative, Effective, Revolutionary, and Researched
With thousands of clinical experiences, we at MDSUN understand the importance of staying connected to our patients and customers to make sure their needs are met in every way possible and provide an experience that other brands cannot reproduce. Our associates are selected on the basis of their distinguished research and product development, and we choose only from the research labs that meet our stringent standards and requirements in order to create the UltrapackTM product line; carrying with its name a treatment experience that is innovative, safe, effective, and revolutionary. (Here is a little secret in the industry. Many well-known companies buy prefabricated products and pass them off as specialty care developed specifically for their customers.)

Manufacturing Specialties
We at MDSUN specialize in pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical skin care, hair care, and supplements - all incorporating Liposome technologies and Ultrapack™ ingredients. In accordance with our mission, we make it our utmost responsibility to ensure our products and manufacturers meet all GMP guidelines. Our products are certified high-quality, manufactured in the USA (many thanks!), and meet the most stringent of standards. Our professional team consists of experts from across the disciplines: doctors, chemists, pharmacists, beauty therapists, and nurses. We aim to provide the most effective and safe skin care treatments to our patients and customers. Patients and customers are our foremost concern, and in this, we provide the best treatment option whether pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, or a combination of both.

Confidence in Quality Assurance
All our materials are derived from American facilities that guarantee compliance with stringent SGS and ISO standards (if you don't know what that means, trust me, it's good). All materials come from American and European-based research facilities to ensure the product compliance to SGS and ISO standards.

• Dr. Sun requires MDSUN to be a quality brand name in the skin-care industry.
• All products follow FDA guidelines and fall under the supervision of a recognized Product Development Committee.
• Collaboration with well-established suppliers to provide Ultrapack™ ingredient, use Liposome™ technology.
• Each step of manufacturing, production, and packaging is strictly monitored to adhere to MDSUN’s professional standards.
• SGS-certified laboratories work closely with our professional staff to conduct tests and research to provide the best and most efficacious active ingredients.

Effective, Safe, and Mostly Paraben Free
MDSUN focuses on two lines of products: cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical. Our pharmaceutical line of products focuses on effectiveness, safety, research, and clinical studies. We provide products that meet our rigid safety guidelines and effectiveness standards while minimizing the pre-and-post-surgery/pre-and-post-therapy recovery times of thousands of our patients. The products in our pharmaceutical line are targeted for medical usage and are formulated from years of experience in both the research laboratory as well as with thousands of patients during clinical studies.
Our cosmeceutical line of products focuses on using the most effective, non-prescription ingredients available to provide the best possible results. By producing vitamin-based and antioxidant supplements, we using Ultrapack™ ingredient to provide the upmost care for our customers’ beauty and health. We ensure our cosmeceutical line to produce the fastest results.

I've learned a few lessons here. Don't assume anything about a company until you have learned its specialty and tried its products. The fact that it's not on the counter at Neiman Marcus and Saks may be an advantage. You can wink when your friends ask you what you've done to look so young and fresh and you tell them your secret didn't involve a surgical procedure. I always share product recommendations with my friends, and I'll definitely be sharing this one, now that I've shared it with you.

You can purchase MDSUN products - and there is a great, long list from which to choose - at the company's Web site. I intend to become a regular customer.

Photo courtesy of MDSUN

TATCHA Soothing Triple Recovery Cream

I was the lucky recipient of samples of this amazing moisturizer, and now I plan to order it. TATCHA had sent me their Indigo Smoothing Silk Body Butter, and I used up every tiny bit. There was no trace left behind in the travel jar. I loved it - and I suspect, like most, I was surprised that it didn't look blue on my skin.

Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream ($135) is formulated for sensitive skin, which basically  means it will work for everyone. This anti-aging moisturizer is rich in Indigo extract, Colloidal Oatmeal, and Sophora Japonica extract, all of which calm, comfort, and restore the skin's natural resiliency.

To my skin, this cream feels like a rich, ultra-hydrating barrier that helps my skin preserve moisture while it soothes, balancing skin tone for an even look. It is a wonderful cream for use day or night. Even though it's rich, it doesn't interfere with makeup application or wear.

TATCHA's soothing blend of botanicals calms sensitive, easily irritated skin and reverses the signs of premature aging. Formulated with 3% Colloidal Oatmeal (the highest percentage available in a product of this kind on the market), the skin is left comforted, supple, and replenished. It's so good, it was awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.

My eczema flared after my knee surgery last year (I don't really understand why, but I've heard that certain anesthesias can cause that), and I would love to have had my hands on this cream then. TATCHA says it's ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive skin showing signs of rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, or allergies - and I believe that. It's also billed as non-comedogenic, which is perfect for anyone with eczema.

I compare this very favorably with a Chantecaille cream I use - one that I love, but it costs $342! Yes, I spend that much because it works. I will happily trade out Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream for $135. They are both 50 ml.

I cannot say enough good things about TATCHA and every one of their products I've tried. Next, I'd like to get my hands on their masks. I will wait, though, and see if I still have a job in a month. You can purchase all of the Indigo product line at TATCHA's Web site. You're going to get hooked.

Photo courtesy of TATCHA

TATCHA Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate

TATCHA shipped this gift to me months ago, and I have used it ever since. As I used the last of Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate ($110), I realized I had never featured it here. I was too busy using it.

Here is what TATCHA has to say about it...
An ultra-concentrated form of our widely-loved Luminous Dewy Skin Mist, this hydrating, gel-like treatment visibly renews skin to a youthful glow in one night's use. Ideal as an overnight recovery treatment, Okinawa Red Algae and seven rich botanical extracts combine to restore hydration, refine texture, and visibly plump fine lines. A light daytime touch adds an extra-lush glow.

All true! The first night I used this concentrated serum - more like a gel than a cream or liquid - I found it to be like jelly as I used its gold scoop to remove it from the pot. You really need that scoop because it picks up the perfect amount for your face and neck. If you stick your finger in the pot, the serum concentrate doesn't want to adhere to it properly, and you either draw too much or too little out of the container. The only acceptable substitute for the scoop is a plastic scoop that you can purchase by the dozen in beauty supply stores. TATCHA's scoop is genius, and the little knot that holds it to the top of the jar (to keep it from being misplaced) in invaluable.

I use Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate almost every night after cleansing. It absorbs very quickly and leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. The miracle happens overnight, when the product goes to work. I awaken to skin that appears hydrated, plumped, and lineless. What more could we want? I call it my miracle serum. Even after a really bad day, it restores my skin overnight.

If you want to see the long collection of ingredients, pop over to the list at TATCHA. It tells us what's in this genius product and what's not. I am surprised it hasn't taken the world by storm. Use it, and you will understand why. For what I consider a remarkably low price, when compared to other luxury line's top-notch products, it's a steal.

Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate was designed for all skin types; it is non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing; and it was dermatologist tested.

TATCHA offers free shipping (and returns) and samples on its Web site. I'm a believer.

Photo courtesy of TATCHA

Le Métier de Beauté Mazza Gallerie Extravaganza - Exciting Events Designed for You

Before I tell you about all the special events and gifts with purchase (GWP), I'll describe Le Métier de Beauté's new super-star serum, Instant Lifting and Firming Face Serum ($350).

Le Métier de Beauté's clients have been eagerly awaiting the Instant Lifting and Firming Serum since it made its debut in their token of appreciation during the spring 2016 Beauty Event. The product is now on the shelf.

This lightweight firming serum will instantly lift, tighten, and firm the skin. The long-term benefit of using the product will be a literal "architectural lift" to the skin. It is a groundbreaking product that shares its key ingredients and technologies with the company's remarkable and popular Neck and Décolleté Firming Creme.

The key technologies that power the Instant Lifting and Firming Serum are many. It's quite a lineup.

• Pullulan natural polysaccharide with film forming benefits
• Idealift, fights against skin sagging, helps improve elasticity and the architecture of the skin, and stimulates elastin synthesis improving the tissue structure
• Dynalift, a natural film former that provide tightness and smoothes the skin for a youthful appearance
• Biomimetic (mimics the skin’s structure) blend of amino acids necessary to help maintain the integrity of the network of elastin and collagen
• TPM, a highly effective proprietary delivery system of various actives, to increase the potency of all ingredients
• Grape seed oil and jojoba oil to nourish and moisturize - they are non-greasy and non-irritating
• Penthanol (the provitamin of B5 because and is used in beauty products primarily as a lubricant, emollient, and moisturizer because of its ability to penetrate the skin), vitamin C ester, Vitamin E, sodium hyaluronate - offering moisturizing, antioxidant, and nourishing benefits

Use the serum on a clean face, day and/or night. Do not rub it in. Apply the serum gently to a uniform light film and let dry for few seconds before applying your moisturizer. I have tried it, following those directions. I felt an instant firming effect, and I believe I saw that firming on my skin. I will know more after a month of testing - my usual duration for testing skin-care products.

What has Le Métier de Beauté, only at Mazza Gallerie, got in store for you? This week, Friday, May 6, they will treat you to lunch at the Capital Grill if you are among those who are able to score an appointment for a master class with Ivan Castro, Lead Artist for the company. If you can't make it that day, Ivan will be in the store doing makeovers on May 7. Both events are by appointment, so if you are interested, call Michael Reinhardt or Andy Schug immediately at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

If I got this right, and I'll correct it if I didn't, Michael has a special, color GWP for anyone who pre-orders the new serum (or otherwise spends $350) for Camp Gorgeous or purchases it during this week's event. If you don't want a color gift, I hear he may negotiate to give you a skin-care treat instead.

Michael has managed to convince his own facialist, Beatrice, a popular sole practitioner, to give her area-famous facials at the store on May 14 and 21, June 16, and July 23 - all by appointment only. I hear she is amazing; I want one!

It gets really interesting in a few weeks. Michael and Andy have arranged for a licensed Botox nurse to give Botox injections to customers who order a specified amount of Le Métier de Beauté products. I don't have all the details yet, but I will update this feature within a day if the plans have been firmed up. The price in products will not be inexpensive (they were talking in the neighborhood of $1500), but with those products you would use anyhow, you will get free Botox. Intrigued?

Again, these events will only occur at Mazza Gallerie. If you are interested, call Michael Reinhardt or Andy Schug at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

As an aside, new color products are on the way. We can expect to see the first of them next month.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

TATCHA Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum

About a month ago, TATCHA sent me their new Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum ($95). I test most skin-care products for at least a month, so I am finally ready to tell you about this wonderful eye serum.

I'll start with TATCHA's own informative description. This weightless serum of Okinawa red algae, honeysuckle leaf, and caffeine offers instantly visible firming, reduced puffiness, and plumping hydration to diminish fine lines.

A cooling ceramic applicator, which you can see in TATCHA's photo immediately above, and fine dust of 23-karat gold brighten and diminish shadows under the eyes without adding shimmer. This serum was developed for all skin types. It's non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing. It was tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists before introduction.

We had a conversation about puffiness last weekend. If your puffiness is due to the shifting of fat under the skin (especially under the eyes), as so many experience with age - or as an unfortunate result of genetics, no eye serum or cream will fix it. Cosmetics cannot melt fat (yet).

However, many of us retain fluid, and that fluid leads to puffiness. This serum, with its caffeine, can act as a diuretic and reduce or eliminate fluid-filled puffiness. Have you noticed in the morning that you have a little "puff" above your sinuses on the side on which you sleep? If you are willing to spend 20 minutes resting with frozen peas over your eyes (protected by gauze, please), you can usually fix that. Who has an extra 20 minutes in the morning? I'd rather use TATCHA's Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum and spend a minute or two. Use the cooling applicator, and gently squeeze a small amount of serum from the tube onto the applicator. Give yourself a lymphatic massage under and over the eyes morning and night. Although TATCHA doesn't recommend that you massage over your eyes, I do. Just don't apply the serum too close to your lash line. The caffeine in this serum will draw that fluid out of your skin, and the manual lymphatic massage will help with the natural lymph drainage.

I have a bit of crepiness in the inside corner of my eye over the crease - another effect of aging. It annoys me beyond reason, and I'm thrilled that this serum is firming that area to correct it. That's one reason I recommend a good massage over the eyes. It has reinforced for me my "test for 30 days" routine. I saw an immediate difference, but I can also see a more permanent difference after a month's use.

What is Okinawa red algae? It's an active ingredient for skin health. It is a rich source of natural polysaccharides with a proven ability to enhance skin’s barrier function, replenish the skin’s natural water reservoir, and increase its moisture-retention capabilities. It is the pillar of TATCHA's signature, trademarked HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex. In TATCHA’s beauty book, Okinawa red algae is incorporated into rituals from washing hair to nourishing the body. Okinawa red algae has been a prized part of the local Okinawa diet for centuries and is called “treasure from the god of the sea” by the island’s residents. Want to know more? Just pop over to this link and this one. The ingredient gives Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum its wonderful hydrating and properties that will leave your skin looking relaxed, radiant, and luminous. Those pesky fine lines might just disappear.

When you use TATCHA skin care, you can be assured that every ingredient was carefully and scientifically chosen for its benefits to the skin. TATCHA guarantees its products, and their shipping is free, so you have nothing to lose - and much to gain - by trying them.

You can purchase TATCHA Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum at the TATCHA Web site. While you are there, look around. TATCHA offers many wonderful products, and they present excellent information on ingredients and their benefits.

Photo at top by Best Things in Beauty; applicator photo courtesy of TATCHA; red algae photo courtesy of photobucket.com

ARMANI PRIMA - Advanced Skin Care for Day-Long Makeup Glow

Giorgio Armani Beauty has introduced ARMANI PRIMA, its first complete skin-care line that improves skin quality and enhances makeup glow so that it lasts all day long. Born from a unique collaboration between the backstage expertise of Linda Cantello, Giorgio Armani International Makeup Artist, and Giorgio Armani Beauty laboratories, the ARMANI PRIMA Beauty routine consists of three innovative products for face, lips, and eyes. It's an out-of-the-box technical formulation approach to provide simple and efficient skin-care solutions in favor of makeup’s staying power.

• Glow-On Moisturizing Balm
• Day-Long Skin Perfector/Trouble Zones
• Eye & Lip Contour Perfector

The name ARMANI PRIMA is a nod to the oil painting technique widely used by the impressionists who worked with natural light without retouching.

No More Makeup Touch-Ups
Women unanimously complain that their makeup never has the same radiant glow as it has just after their morning beauty routine. As the day progresses, the skin quality deteriorates (loss of moisture, sebum production, enlarged pores) and is exposed to environmental aggressors. When skin is imperfect, the makeup glow doesn’t last and even smudges, losing its impact.

Now for the first time, Giorgio Armani Beauty offers an innovative, tailor-made solution to keep your complexion and makeup touch-up-free all day. ARMANI PRIMA’s revolutionary new skin-care products contain a special blend of active ingredients that maintain skin’s moisture level, regulates sebum production, and strengthens the skin barrier so that the face keeps the glow of just-applied makeup and the benefits are visible all day.

“Today, we live in a fast-paced world. Women expect immediate results. That’s what we created with ARMANI PRIMA, which is the first skincare conceived for makeup wearers.” - Linda Cantello, Giorgio Armani International Makeup Artist

Glow-On Moisturizing Balm

The Glow-On Moisturizing Balm ($110) is the cornerstone of the ARMANI PRIMA line. It was formulated to achieve glow, plump, and maximum moisture that last 24 hours. This could only be achieved by a patented formula and unique process: a surprising compact texture, hot poured at 45°C that quickly breaks into a fresh fluid that penetrates immediately. The formula is an inversed emulsion active on the internal and external skin layers. The internal phase maximizes the concentration of moisturizing and plumping active ingredients; the external phase then creates a protective barrier on skin surface, locking in moisture. This is achieved through a high concentration of hydrovance and hyaluronic acid for continuous hydration and glycerin for skin plumping. The Giorgio Armani signature glowing complexion effect is enhanced by the “Liquid Mirror” complex, which ensures a prolonged reflection of the light on the skin. Thanks to this technological breakthrough, here is what you should see.

• Immediately: Skin is deeply moisturized and plumped with heightened radiance. Perfect compatibility with foundation for an easy and fault proof makeup application.
• At the end of the day: Skin quality and moisture level is maintained. Foundation looks fresh, as if just applied.
• After four weeks: Overall skin quality is improved. More comfortable, supple, and nourished skin. Fine lines look evened out.

Day-Long Skin Perfector/Trouble Zones

Day-Long Skin Perfector/Trouble Zones ($100), is an innovative skin-care product that contains a strong concentration of “Prima Skin Complex,” an impressive active ingredient, which is lipophilic to absorb sebum and hydrophobic to repel sweat. It immediately smoothes skin and regulates the water and lipid levels on skin surface all day long.

The Skin Perfector targets the “disruption zone” of the face (i.e., eyelids, around the nose, chin, forehead, or any area prone to shine or large pores). It absorbs excess sebum delivering an instant mattifying effect on skin that lasts all day long. Thanks to a unique milky gel texture, the Skin Perfector absorbs rapidly, leaving a clean skin sensation that lasts all day. A combination of two hydrophilic ingredients provides a tightening effect and a feeling of comfort, making the product perfect for all skin
types.

• Immediately: Trouble zones are smoothed and mattified in transparency. Foundation and eye shadow are easier to apply.
• At the end of the day: Makeup glow and color are intact.
• After four weeks: Skin texture is improved and skin surface appears smoother.

Eye & Lip Contour Perfector

A skin-perfecting formula for lips and under eyes, Eye & Lip Contour Perfector ($70) is an ingenious two-in-one product that targets the lips and under-eye area. It contains buckwheat extract and haloxyl for their stimulating effects, reducing dark circles and under-eye puffiness over time. Glycerin, jojoba butter, and hydralip give intensified hydration and reduce fine lines. The effective results of this skin-care product is clearly measurable in improvements to dark circles and a toning, lifting
effect under the eyelids, as well as a significant reduction in wrinkles and fine lines around the lips. Eye & Lip Contour Perfector should not be used on the eyelids.

• Immediately: Lines and dark circles are blurred. Light reflection on the skin surface is amplified to make eyes look brighter and skin looks more luminous. Application and hold of dark circle concealer are improved. Lips and contour are smoothed, preventing lipstick from bleeding into the fine lines.
• At the end of the day: Skin feels more comfortable, supple, and nourished.
• After four weeks: Dark circles appear reduced, the outline of eyes and lips appear more defined.

All three products have an addictive scent. The Glow-on Moisturizing Balm and the Skin Perfector envelop the skin delicately with a feminine flora-aqua creation based on Armani/Privé Rose d’Alexandrie (I have that fragrance, and I love it). The soft notes of the premium fragrance line are translated into skin care, in a subtle note of Rose of May, Bergamot, and Italian Mandarin and Benzoin - all nice notes. It's a beauty routine wrapped up in gentleness.

Here are suggested application methods.

• Face: apply the Glow-On Moisturizing Balm over the entire face using circular massaging movements.
• Trouble zones: apply the Day-Long Skin Perfector/Trouble Zones on the forehead, nose, chin, eyelids, and over the upper lip, sweeping the product outwards.
• Dark circles and lips: apply the Eye & Lip Contour Perfector under the eye area and directly on and around the lips.

These new products are available at the Armani Beauty Web site now. They will appear at store counters in March. I suspect if your skin is mature, and you are using Crema Nera now, you will want to stick with it. These new products appear to me to be aimed at a demographic that doesn't need the hydrating, anti-aging power of Crema Nera.

Photos courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Know Your Ingredients: Propylene Glycol

I was stunned when I read years ago in Allure that dermatologist Doris Day was plugging propylene glycol. She remarked that it's a good humectant for sensitive skin. Today, a conversation at the makeup counter reminded me that many of you weren't reading BTiB six years ago and might find this post interesting.

Propylene glycol is a humectant. It makes the skin feel moist and soft, and it keeps your products from drying out. It's also a carrier in fragrance oils, a solvent, a de-icer used on airplanes, and an anti-freeze. It's ubiquitous. It's used in so many beauty products (cosmetics, skin care, toothpaste, deodorant, and more), you'll be amazed if you start reading labels. Unfortunately, it's bad for the environment (it depletes oxygen in surface water), and it can cause contact dermatitis when used in concentrations over 2% (and for some skin, even lower concentrations). The findings on the effects of propylene glycol have been published in respected medical journals.

The Material Safety Data Sheet for propylene glycol says it may be harmful by ingestion or skin absorption. Remember, that's at a very high concentration. Chronic exposure may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, headache, and vomiting, along with central nervous system depression. If you get it on your skin, wash with soap and water - the very premise of Dr. Day's recommendation for cleansers! Granted, full-strength, industrial propylene glycol isn't in your beauty products, but what strength is OK for daily application to your skin? We don't know.

I disagree with Paula Begoun, self-described Cosmetics Cop, on most of her product reviews. In her Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, she describes propylene glycol as harmless. Could that be because she uses propylene glycol in her products?

Why do so many beauty companies, including luxury companies, use it? It's cheap. Plain and simple - it's cheap. It's legal too. Many companies prefer to use it over better, but more expensive humectants, and they count on having uninformed customers. Chances are good that you've been using products containing propylene glycol for years. That doesn't necessarily make them good for you.

I read labels. When a product has a high concentration of propylene glycol (near the top of the ingredient list), I skip it and select something else. Remember, you can still buy cigarettes, but that doesn't make them good for you.

Photo courtesy of Dow, which believes that propylene glycol is non-irritating to skin and harmless to aquatic life. They sell it.

Le Métier de Beauté - Poised to Stun at the Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie Trend and Beauty Events

As most, if not all, of you know, Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie offers a tote bag containing samples as a GWP at its Beauty Events. If you spend $125 in Beauty from February 13 to 28, you will have a choice of a gold or orange tote. The orange one resembles the Hermès signature color. I like them both. The real treats, though, are at specific brands offering GWPs. Le Métier de Beauté at Mazza Gallerie is ready to pamper and reward you - not only at Beauty Event, but also at Trend Event. (I know, even I'm confused.)

This year, the Mazza Gallerie store also has a fashion Trend Event that will, for the first time, reward fashion purchases of $350 or more with a beauty gift. The Trend Event starts today and ends on February 17.

Two new Le Métier de Beauté skin-care products have arrived in time for both events, They are shown under the flowers above. I tried both products in the store and was impressed. Vital ET Recovery Boost Face ($250) is formulated with a potent dose of vitamin E to protect against free radicals and reduce overall redness. Vital ET Recovery Boost Face is rich and absorbs "deep into the skin" to instantly hydrate and restore, leaving skin radiant, rejuvenated, and intensely moisturized. Unlike other pore-clogging moisturizers, this oil-free moisturizer absorbs into the skin for faster results.

Vital ET Recovery Boost Body ($125) is also formulated with a vitamin E that helps to prevent free radicals from doing future damage to your skin. It rescues and restores extreme cases of dry, dehydrated skin like mine. It felt heavenly after application. With a highly concentrated topical recovery treatment, this formula is quickly absorbed to shield skin, replenish lost moisture, soften, and soothe. It is intended to be applied daily (I would use before bed) to maintain hydrated skin that looks and feels great.

If you spend $350 at Le Métier de Beauté during the Trend Event, you will receive your choice of the Brigitte Kaleidoscope (a $95 value), shown at the top of this feature, or the new Vital ET Recovery Boost Face ($250). To my knowledge, you cannot purchase Brigitte, a warm, adventurous, and alluring combination of colors that can be worn alone, or blended/layered to create a neutral smoky eye. It's really flexible. Neiman Marcus provided one for me (gratis) to swatch and show you the beautiful colors. Michael Reinhardt used it on me last week when he did my makeup, and I was smitten.

I swatched, starting at the top tier of the Kaleidoscope and moving down. The top tier is St. Tropez, a perfect neutral, lightening base. You can barely see it at the top of my arm in the photo above. I took my photos of Brigitte in full sun, and I swatched with a sponge-tipped applicator (not terribly neatly, I'm afraid - it was cold outside). Le Métier de Beauté recommends applying Séduction (the grey on the second tier) from your lash line to your natural crease. The third tier is Liberté, a gorgeous copper. You could gently press it over your entire eyelid, or apply however you like to wear copper. I'd apply it in my crease and the outer third of my lid. Deux, the fourth tier, is a medium charcoal grey. Michael applied it on me as a liner, smudged over a liquid, waterproof liner. Brigitte is one of the prettiest Kaleidoscopes I've used in months. I love it because I can wear it during the day. I don't get out much at night anymore - it's winter.

Moving on to the Beauty Event, which runs from February 13 to 28, if you spend $400 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a cosmetics bag with a brand new, full-sized lipstick called Cerise (pink) and a one-time-use sample of the company's new Red Algae Collagen Mask (not yet introduced), and a deluxe travel size of the new Instant Lifting and Firming Serum (to be launched in April, $350). If you spend $500, you will also receive a step-up gift of the Chem60 Pro-Peel (full size, $165).

Wait, there's more. On February 11 and 17, you can make an appointment for a complimentary facial with Barbara, Le Métier de Beauté's aesthetician. I was treated to her facial a few months ago, and I felt pampered. My skin looked fabulous when she finished with me. I may go back for another tomorrow.

On February 25, Hylton Lea, the Global Director of Skincare, will lead a master class. That same day, a national makeup artist from Dallas will be at the store doing makeup consultations and applications.

If you want to participate in the facial, master class, or makeup session, you should call Michael Reinhardt (or Andy) at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258, to make an appointment. Otherwise, you can stop in anytime during the events, and Michael or Andy will help you with skin care or makeup.

Have I totally confused you? Michael would be glad to help you if you don't have a Neiman Marcus near you. I really don't know if all stores are having the same events or GWPs.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Ultimate Hydrator

Any time I see a product name like "Ultimate Hydrator, Hydrate, Soothe, Calm and Repair" I get suspicious. Ultimate, of course, means the best achievable. Hydrator gives me the expectation that the product will make my skin less dry - much less dry. I told you last week that I would find out more information about this $225 product - primarily because I wanted to know what's in it that would live up to its billing.

I did, and I'm impressed. I had tried it in the store, but I put a very small amount on top of layers of product: moisturizer, foundation, blush - you get the picture. It wasn't a fair test, particularly since you are supposed to apply it right before your makeup.

Formulated to lock optimal moisture levels into the skin while delivering hydration deep below the surface to boost hydration levels, this luxuriously rich, gentle formula is safe for sensitive skin. It was designed to be comforting and to restore youthful hydration to dry skin immediately.

If you are good at reading ingredient lists, here they are. Water (Aqua), Squalan, Caprylic/Capric Triglyeride, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Cetyle Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Butyrosperum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Myristyle Myristate, Tocopheryl Phosphate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Hydroxyproline, Disodium Lauriminodipropionate Tocopheryl Phosphates, Proline, Glycine, Hyaluronic Acid, Silanetriol, Stearyl Alcohol, Ceteth-20, Acrylates Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acylate/Sodium Acryloyldimenthyl Taurate Copolymer, Carbomer, Polysorbate 60, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Phenoxyethanol. I'm sure most of you would like a bit of interpretation.

Ultimate Hydrator provides super hydration, moisturizing, plumping Botox-like effects with TPM, Le Métier de Beauté's patented delivery system that increases potency. The hydrator helps with the early signs of aging, resulting in reduced depth of wrinkles, and firmer, supple, soft, smooth, youthful looking skin.

The product includes:

• Argirelene: SNAP 25 - Botox-like activity, will help reduce the depth of wrinkles caused by contraction of muscles of facial expression
• Epidermosil: silicium and small molecular weight hyaluronic acid with synergistic benefits will enhance the epidermis thickening, collagen production, density and architecture. Will improves skin hydration and firmness.
• Shea butter, grape seed oil: emolliency for soft, smooth skin
• Vital ET, a triple dose of vitamin E for soothing and healing the skin

Ultimate Hydrator is free of parabens and perfumes. It does have a slight smell of cucumber, a masking agent, which dissipates quickly. Some people don't smell it; I do. The product was made in the United States. I like the pump dispenser.

Ultimate Hydrator has been selling swiftly. I think that's because you can actually feel it working when you apply it. It's a pleasant feeling that reassures you that the active ingredients are working. After a few days of use, your skin should appear to have fewer expression lines and be more plump and youthful.

Yes, it's pricey. It seems like all of the really good skin care is pricey these days. That's why you need to learn as much as you can about ingredients to help you judge the potential for effectiveness. Hopefully, we have been learning together over the last few years.

You can purchase Ultimate Hydrator at Neiman Marcus. I'm sure my friend Michael Reinhardt would be happy to tell you about it and have one sent to you. You can reach him starting Thursday at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 (he is enjoying his days off). I wouldn't recommend that you talk to anyone else about Ultimate Hydrator. It's new, and I'm not sure they have been trained.

As you know, it's still Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus. With a $125 purchase, you will receive a tote with samples. If you spend $400 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a full-sized Replenishing Daily Solution worth $225. That's my absolute favorite skin care from Le Métier de Beauté.

Photo courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté

Le Métier de Beauté is Pulling out All the Stops with New Products for Neiman Marcus Beauty Event

Four new Kaleidoscopes ($95 each), eight new Liquid Eye Prisms ($38) that left me drooling, five new lip pencils ($36), five new eye pencils ($36), and new skin care! All in one introduction later this week. Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus starts Thursday, September 10. I will be at the Mazza store as soon as they open. Not only will they be offering free facials, Dustin Lujan will be there with Michael and Chae. I spent two hours playing with all the new testers on Saturday and left gobsmacked.

The Kaleidoscopes have travel-related names. All have a translucent pressed powder (very much like an HD powder) on the top level, a blush immediately below, and two coordinating eye shadow shades at the bottom. See update below. The Kaleidoscope above may be called Full Stream, but it's also possible I can't read my own scrawl. I was writing on Michael's business card - around the print.

I'm sure the bus Kaleidoscope is called All Aboard. It's gorgeous - one of my two favorites. Directly below, you'll see Lift Off, the one I pre-ordered. You will note that the blush is softer than the one in All Aboard, better for my pale skin.

The fourth was in a display case, and we couldn't get it out. The photo has a yellow cast. Sorry, that was unavoidable. It's called Luxury Liner. Shown below, it appears to be one I'm going to want.

Now, to the drop-dead, I need them all Liquid Eye Prisms. It's a trend now to release liquid eye shadows - it seems like every line has them - but almost all of them are intensely colored. These aren't. They offer maximum control. They can be used as eye shadow bases or as shadows. You can build the color as you please. They are beyond gorgeous.

The new pencils are shown in the next two photos. The lip pencils have a new coral color that will be useful for many, and there's a deep red that will serve all shades of red lipstick.

The eye pencils are soft (not breakable soft) and apply like a dream. I'm smitten with the green one.

Michael drew them all on his hand. The eyes are at the top, with the lip colors below. There's also a smudge of one of the new eye shadows (drool!).

I don't know much about the new skin care yet - aside from the fact that it will hydrate and plump your skin. I'll find out more and let you know later. I do know that it costs $225 for 1.7 oz.

There will be a gift with a purchase of $400 during Beauty Event: a full-sized skin care product! My favorite too.

The two big days at Mazza will be Thursday and Saturday if you want to see Dustin there. Call and make an appointment. You know how popular he is. You can reach Michael Reinhardt at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. I think Dustin will be with the new rep at Tysons on Friday (can't confirm).

I don't ever remember a time when Le Métier de Beauté introduced so much new color at one time, and it's all gorgeous. How, with no job, am I going to acquire all these new beauties?

Update 9/10: I got the true scoop on the Kaleidoscopes today. The third shade down is either a bronzer or highlighter, not an eye shadow. On the train and plane, the shade is a bronzer. On the Luxury Liner and helicopter, it's a highlighter.

Additional information: 1) the lip liners are a new formula that is waterproof; 2) the eye liners are a new gel formula that is water resistant. Dustin Lujan supplied all of this update information.

All photos by Best Things in Beauty, taken in store

Special Event Saturday at Le Métier de Beauté, Mazza Gallerie with Hylton Lea, Global Director of Skincare

This Saturday, December 20, Hylton Lea, one of my very favorite skin care gurus, will be available to consult with you at Neiman Marcus at Mazza Gallerie. A beauty and skin-care industry veteran and authority, Hylton Lea, now Le Métier de Beauté's Global Director of Skincare, will bring his dynamic personality, enthusiasm for the brand, and unique ability to connect with individuals, to this special event with our friends at Le Métier de Beauté - just for Saturday.

Hylton has a deep understanding of the advanced science behind the Le Métier de Beauté skin care. As the Global Director of Skincare, he serves as the brand’s Skincare Ambassador and Spokesperson. Constantly in the field, he has the unique opportunity to educate and interact with Le Métier de Beauté's customers. Combining his experience with the unmatched technological capabilities of Le Métier de Beauté, a perfect match has been achieved. Le Métier de Beauté will be delivering new, never-before-seen products that will help all of us achieve real results, and Hylton will show us how.

Hylton's boundless energy and intense passion for the brand and skin care is infectious. From assisting in the development of ground-breaking, highly scientific formulations, to the execution of strategic client and brand initiatives, his unending enthusiasm and positive, upbeat client interactions are becoming integral components of the Le Métier de Beauté brand experience. Hylton was a brilliant "hire." I'm thrilled that he has joined the Le Métier de Beauté team.

Prior to joining Le Métier de Beauté, Hylton was the Senior Vice President Communications and Business Development at RéVive (where I met him) and led sales development initiatives for luxury brands, including Erno Laszlo, Bliss, and Boucheron. Additionally, he served as Cosmetics Manager at the Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills, California.

You can just drop in, but I'd suggest you make an appointment to see Hylton. I did. Call Michael Reinhardt at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. That way, you will enjoy Hylton's undivided attention. I'm excited!

Photo courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté

Chantecaille New Skin-Care and Color Products and a New Web Site Look

Chantecaille's wonderful Webmaster has revamped the Chantecaille Web site, giving it a clean new look and even more gorgeous photos than it had before. It's worth an Internet trip to check it out. I noticed that the Special Offers page was missing, but he assured me that it will return the moment there is a special offer. I felt better when I learned that I hadn't accidentally missed anything. One nice feature is the continuous offer of free shipping for orders over $99.

There are three new products I want to show you. I have all three, but I have not had sunlight after work to take photos of the luminizers. I may get those photos later today - I hope - so you won't have to wait long.

The new wonder cream is La Crème à la Rose de Mai ($210). The exquisite Rose de Mai imbues its rare and delicate scent to this very modern and moisturizing cream. An intelligent formula protects, repairs, and detoxifies the skin, leaving it radiant and clear, while new technologies help the body use its own resources by teaching it to draw energy and moisture from within.

• Rose de Mai Essence extracted from one of the world’s rarest roses, Rose de Mai essence, infuses the formula with a uniquely uplifting aroma.
• Rich in vitamin C, it also possesses powerful anti-aging properties.
• Dolicos (sweet pea stem cells) protects the cell and DNA from damage created by UV, pollution, and stress; reenergizes the essence of the cell by boosting its energy.
• Pre- and Pro-Biotic Complex protect the immune system of the skin, stimulates the skin’s primary defense barrier, and helps prevent harmful bacteria from entering.
• Wild pansy extract acts as a dual action hydration regulator and increases the skin’s internal water regulation.
• Niacinamide helps stimulate collagen synthesis, strengthens skin’s moisture barrier and inhibits the production of melanin.
• Matrixyl 3000 provides a combination of anti-aging peptides that help minimize fine lines, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and improve the skin’s elasticity and tone; it enhances cellular longevity and DNA repair.
• Raspberry stem cells offer both soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, provide long-term DNA protection, and repair while preventing collagen dehydration.
• The cream is composed with 85% natural ingredients, including a healing base of pure rosewater
• It offers an aromatherapy experience, soothing and uplifting, promiting a wonderful sense of joy.

I'm wearing this cream now, and I love everything about it. While the initial rosewater fragrance disippates quickly, the nourishing and hydrating properties stick me me all day. I'm already impressed with it.

Liquid Lumière ($39) is a brand new luminizer/illuminator that is available in two shades: rose gold (Luster) and gold (Brilliance, shown in tube below). They are both gorgeous. Fortunately, I was able to purchase both. Who could choose between gorgeous and gorgeous?

Velvety smooth and buildable, Liquid Lumière blends effortlessly to leave skin feeling hydrated and supple, while gleaming with a healthy glow.

• A luxuriously lightweight highlighting fluid that instantly illuminates skin while delivering long-term anti-aging benefits
• Micro-sized, light reflecting pigments blur imperfections to instantly brighten and even out skin tone
• Packaged for portability, the powerful complexion “pick me up” can be applied throughout the day for a boost of radiance and luminosity

Liquid Lumière leaves the prettiest, most natural, transparent gleam you can imagine. I hope it delights you as much as it thrills me. It's sophisticated, luxurious, and versatile. You can wear it anywhere on your face where you want a touch of light or brightness without glitter or a made-up look. I think it's going to be a very popular new tool in our makeup wardrobes.

I will show you swatch photos as soon as possible. In the meantime, check out these wonderful new additions to my beauty routine at Chantecaille's Web site. I have not been in a department store for two weeks, so I don't know if these products have arrived at Chantecaille's counters yet.

Update 5:00 pm: I got the Liquid Lumière photos. I will post them later this evening. They are magnificent!
Later: I am wiped out. First thing tomorrow, I promise.

Photos courtesy of Chantecaille