Make Up Beauty Tips

Oooohhh, aahhhhh. The long awaited "Black Mask" from preservative-free skincare company Boscia is here!

Boscia's anti-aging, peel-off Luminizing Black Mask officially launched today (though I've seen it at my Sephora already ... hmmmm) and the folks behind the brand are betting this new skincare product will be a must-try, must-have item. It features high-performance active ingredients (been hearing a lot about active ingredients in skincare lately, huh), combined with pure botanicals sourced from around the world.

The Luminizing Black Mask is a powerful peel-off purifier that is said to boost skin’s clarity and radiance by minimizing hyper-pigmentation and refining pores. What sets this product apart from any other is the particular kind of peel-off delivery system. This mask adheres to the skin, forming an even, shiny, opaque black “veil.” Once the mask is completely dry, it is peeled off, stripping the dead skin and all impurities, while imparting all kinds of goodness simultaneously.

It's fine for all skin types and is rich in natural clays, minerals, extracts, vitamins and antiseptics – all infused to deliver exceptional deep-pore cleansing and exfoliation while drawing out impurities, bacteria and excess oil. In this way, it really is perfect for those women who want anti-aging benefits but also need assistance in preventing blemishes. It delivers powerful antioxidant protection to prevent future free-radical damage that results in wrinkles, dryness, and dullness.

Boscia’s new Luminizing Black Mask (2.8 fl oz.) retails for $34.00 and is available now exclusively at Sephora, sephora.com and bosciaskincare.com.

Inspired to impart her East-meets-West beauty knowledge with compassion and care, founder Linda Wang created Karuna – "Wisdom for the Skin."

KARUNA is a major evolution in the concept of beauty rituals, an innovative item-driven product line targeting specific skin concerns. Karuna launches with the latest evolution of the face mask, a no-mess, do-it-yourself facial that pampers as it treats each individual skin care needs.

Blending unique and sought-after ingredients, Karuna products combine science and nature to solve the most common skin concerns in a fresh, modern way. Karuna's highly specialized ingredients are custom-blended with care and expertise to deliver specific results through innovative delivery systems.
 
 
These are cloth treatment masks for any skin type. Plant extracts, peptides and anti-oxidants help renew, hydrate and nourish skin.  All-natural fiber cloths retain 50% more moisture than synthetic, helping pores fully dilate and drink in the paraben-free beneficial ingredients.  Available in six unique formulas: anti-aging, anti-blemish, anti-oxidant, brightening, hydrating, exfoliating. Just reading the list of botanical ingredients and extracts in these formulas is enough to seduce one to must-try these delightful skincare treats.
 
Each box contains four masks, which is a month's supply.  They retail for $28 a box and are available at b-glowing.

Envision a skincare line infused with an ingredient so special, it has the power to help an apple heal itself after being punctured. Then imagine the ingredient comes from natural, plant stem cells. Factor in that 100% of subjects experienced visible decrease in wrinkle depth in clinical studies - 100%!

Nope, we're not talking about a Retin-A or a retinol product, not talking about products boasting acai berry, and one doesn't need to visit the dermatologist to reap its benefits. What's the ingredient? The latest buzz in skincare is a rare Swiss Apple called the Uttwiler Spatlauber.  These rare apples boast an extremely long shelf life; they last four months longer than typical shriveled apples. The Swiss Apple has a self-renewal power that rejuvenates aging, saggy skin. Apple stem cells are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites that assure the longevity of skin cells.


Allow me to introduce you to Eclos!  Eclos uses the super apple to boost the production of human stem cells. It protects skin from stress, and decreases wrinkles for fresher looking skin. Eclos takes the revolutionary technology of super apple and plant-based stem cells to create younger looking skin. The application of plant cell cultures to maintain human skin stem cells is a breakthrough in anti-aging.

For the past two weeks I've been using three products from the Eclos line with fantastic results!  Truly, I've been amazed.  The three Eclos products I tested: Instant Radiance Facial Scrub, Skin Renewal Clay Mask and Cellular Activator Face Serum. 

The facial scrub with its dermabrasion properties gently but effectively exfoliates the skin leaving a glowy, healthy radiance. I noticed how smooth my skin was after the first use, but twice weekly application has also assisted my skin's overall texture. The scrub smells of a lovely aromatherapy-ish botanical scent, provided mainly I would guess by the rosemary, a highlighted ingredient that helps to restore and retain a youthful balance.  Other ingredients you'll appreciate of the scrub include ginkgo biloba (helps re-energize skin), willow bark (a natural beta hydroxy acid aids in exfoliation) both part of a PhytoPlex24 combination of plant extracts unique to Eclos, horse chestnut, gotu kola, green tea, turmeric, matricaria, cucumber, comfrey, West Indian Rosewood, vitamin E, palmarosa, cardamom, geranium and ylang-ylang.

The clay mask was an instant favorite too.  As one might expect, it helps to absorb skin impurities. The mask additionally invigorates, detoxifies and clarifies with its Kaolin Clay, Moroccan Lava Clay, anti-oxidizing green tea, rosemary and of course its Plant Stem Cell technology.  A thin layer is all that's needed to reap the effects (in fact, it's recommended).  I noticed a warming sensation the first couple of times I used the mask, which faded with additional usage.  This is typical for me, though, when using a clay or mud based mask. It's not at all irritating, though you will feel it tighten as the mask dries, generally after about 5 - 10 minutes.  What's amazing is how firm my face feels after rinsing the mask off.  My facial skin is definitely tighter, firmer (not that awful dry tightness though), to the point that I actually notice it when I wake up in the morning.  At first I wasn't sure if it was the mask or the serum providing the result (and probably long-term both work to produce the firming result), but even when not applying the serum - you know, just to do my own little test - the firmness is still there next morning. Please understand, this isn't an, "Oh, I think if I really concentrate hard enough I might just perhaps feel a little firmer in the face," kind of result; this is a, "Yes! My face is definitely firmer, even still this morning and I am amazed," kind of result.  As with the scrub, the clay mask uses the high potency plant stem cells extracted from the Swiss apple to stimulate skin stem cells, encouraging aging skin to behave like younger skin. It's enriched with the PhytoPlex24 to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and tired skin while delivering a smooth and radiant complexion. The mask's use of ginkgo biloba, turmeric & green tea's anti-inflammatory properties help slow the signs of aging, chamomile & cucumber soothe, revitalize and hydrate skin, horse chestnut and willow bark help to firm skin and enhance cell turnover and gotu kola improves skin firmness and elasticity by boosting collagen. Use of the botanical mask provides an aromasensory experience ... altogether now, deep breath in, and let it out. Again, in and out ... And once more ... in ... and out ..... now relax.

Alright, now for the serum. Love it!  Here's why. This is a light creamy-gel textured serum that once applied instantly reveals firmness and youthfulness to the skin.  You can feel it; you can see it; and it lasts.  Now this is a little funny, and shhhh please don't go telling people, but over this past week I've not been able to resist a double-task in the mirror delighting in what a noticeable difference I'm seeing in my skin.  Lines are definitely less noticeable, even forehead and those awful "11" lines between the eyebrows are diminished in appearance.  I am delighted that not only are the results visibly noticeable, I can actually feel how much better toned and resilient my skin is. Remarkable. The serum boasts many of the same ingredients as the scrub and the mask including the rosemary, turmeric, green tea, comfrey, gotu kola and more.



All Eclos products are FREE of parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragances & dyes, and petro-chemicals. (Happy Earth Month!)

The idea of using the rare super apple's plant stem cells as an anti-aging element in a skincare line is not altogether brand new. Super apple skincare lines are around and typically they are quite pricey. From Chantecaille's $260 Nano Gold Eye Cream to ReVive's $1,482 Peau Magnifique.  They're out there, but really, who can afford them? Not many. So here's the piece de resistance.  Are you ready for this?  Eclos is a drugstore brand of skincare.  Yep, that's right - drugstore!  Believe me, no one is more surprised than I to find such a fabulous, plant-based, sensory delighting, results driven, line of skincare coming from a drugstore.  The prices are going to blow your mind.

The whole range of plant-based Eclos products costs less than a single product from some of the other brands utilizing the super apple plant stem cells, and even two, three, ten times over (and then some). Eclos' range consists of Facial Cleanser Skin Prep, $14.99, Facial Scrub, $12.99, Clay Mask $12.99, Cellular Activator Face Serum $24.99, Moisture Therapy Regenerative Cream $24.99 and Restorative Eye Cream.  Check Ulta, Rite Aid, Walgreens.com and soon, CVS for this amazing line of anti-aging skincare. For more information about the brand, visit Eclos Beauty and their presence on facebook. Enjoy!

Yes, Louise, you can exfoliate without sugar, salt, particles or harsh granular scrubs.

Got a question via my little Contact Me option from my banner up top. Louise of Charlotte, NC asks, "Can you recommend a gentle product that doesn't have grains in it but still gives the face an excellent exfoliation?"

Your wish, Louise, is my command. Now I suppose I should qualify this by reminding everyone I am not a dermatologist or skincare professional; I'm just a woman who loves skincare, so you should check with a professional if you want more information about what you read here. There are many products on the market that offer chemical versus physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation generally consists of applying forms of alpha hydroxy acids and/or beta hydroxy acids. The acids help to dissolve the "glue" around the cells, ultimately shedding several layers of the epidermis. We're not talking about the potency of say battery acid, we're talking about gentle acid found, for instance, in many of the fruits we eat.

One such product I enjoy with excellent results is REN's F10 Enzymatic Smooth Radiance Facial Mask. The mask has the consistency of a sweet honeyed jam of sorts. There are no harsh granules to bother sensitive skins. Fruit enzymes provide a deep yet safe and gentle way to slough away dead cells and debris. There's no burning and no irritation. The mask is formulated to gently exfoliate and detoxify, and boosts cell renewal leaving the complexion smooth, toned and bright. Enzymes from papaya gently remove dead cells while Vitamin C from Barbados Cherry extract and essential oils of orange, mandarin, grapefruit and pineapple neutralize antioxidants and fight free radicals. In addition Arctic Blackcurrant oil rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids help to repair and soothe skin. 1.7 oz pump bottle retails for $37

Using this mask just once a week helps keep my skin in check and very smooth. I've often noticed little bumps or dry patches that have been present the day before are gone by the next morning after using the mask. The mask has a slight fruity tea-like scent to it, very natural; it's effective for all skin types. Apply generously after cleansing the skin, leave on for about 10 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Apply a moisturizer to enhance hydration and you're set to go.

For more information or to purchase this gentle, lovely facial mask, visit REN Skincare. Also available at Apothica, Skin Botanica and Sephora.

It's time for a detox!

You already know I'm a huge fan of Organic Apoteke. I'm treating myself to a detox facial with their products tomorrow night in preparation for a new year and back to work. It's amazing what a little pampering and clarifying can do not only for your skin but your state of mind. I'm ready for it!

Organic Apoteke's Detox Face Mask is a clarifying mask designed to draw out impurities. Green clay clears pores while mineral-rich Dead Sea mud soothes the skin. Organic Papaya extract exfoliates - revealing a clear, radiant complexion. As an added treat, check out Dr. Nitasha Buldeo's Weekend Detox Plan. In it, she offers suggestions and tips on getting fit, healthy, gorgeous skin and putting spring in your step.

For usage, apply a thick layer to the face and neck after cleansing avoiding your eye area. Leave on for 15-20 minutes and rinse off with warm water. OA recommends following with their Active Herbal Toner and Active Face Hydrating Gel. I enjoy their Radiance Line so I follow with those products. Their Rejuvenating Face Cream is divine.

Got a blemish? Apply a dab of Detox Face Mask as a night-time spot treatment. Excellent!

Detox Face Mask is available in a 1.7 oz jar and retails for $36.95 a jar at OA counters nationwide or online at Organic Apoteke.

The best mud masque experience of my life!

This is so much more than a spa treatment and Alaska Glacial Mud Co. is so much more than a skincare company. Based in the quiet Southcentral Alaska town of Cordova, nestled in the Prince William Sound, Alaska Glacial Mud Co. is an eco-friendly and philanthropic company contributing 10% of profits to wilderness preservation, habitat restoration, sustainable community development and environmental education.

President and founder Lauren Padawer, a biologist and dedicated activist for the environment, founded the company in 2006. She has made it her firm mission to not only provide a superior, therapeutic mud masque product, but is committed to research, development and philanthropic advocacy for the Copper River Watershed. One could spend hours just learning from Lauren and/or perusing the website, and yet they have only one product - and one is really all they need - The Glacial Facial Purifying Mineral Mud Masque. However, scrubs, polishers, toners and soaps are currently in development.

Their glacial masque contains the most mineral-rich and pure mud in the world, sustainably hand-harvested from the remote waters of the Copper River Delta in Alaska. The masque detoxifies, exfoliates, and softens while more than 60 nourishing major and trace elements promote healthy skin cell regeneration. The pure mud is further enriched with a special combination of organic and wildcrafted botanical extracts from the Pacific Northwest and vitamins that are chosen for the moisturizing, skin softening, anti-aging and immunoprotective properties.

Available in Unscented, Lavender-Peppermint and Vanilla-Lavender; a 3.5 oz glass jar yields approximately 15-20 applications - $34.




REVIEW:
I'm not one for applying products to my face with a brush. Although I have numerous foundation, concealer, powder, eyeshadow, and lip brushes, blah blah blah, I have to admit to really only using my powder brush and my eyeshadow crease brush regularly. The others sit in the makeup bag unused - it's just too much of a hassle. I apply just about everything I use on my face with my fingers - makeup and skincare.

So when I got ready to use the mud for the first time, I went back and forth trying to decide if I'd give the little application brush a try. After all, it looked like it added to the spa experience in the graphic on the brochure ... so I thought, ..."shoot - just go ahead and use it, Roxy." I did, and so glad I did! Not only does it really ease the product in spreading over facial skin and keeps fingers from getting messy, it really does conserve the amount of product you use. Well worth the extra $6 (and, currently, you get free shipping when you buy the brush with a jar of mud).

I chose the Vanilla-Lavender mud. This is a soft, invigorating product that applies easily over skin and smells lightly of vanilla and lavender. Definitely not an overwhelming scent for those of you who are scent-sensitive. You allow the mud to dry (about 15 minutes) then rinse with warm water. What I love about this product is its ability to detox the skin. I've used the masque 4-5 times over the past two weeks and I can really appreciate a healthier, fresher, even-toned appearance. I'm loving the results. There is no doubt I'll be incorporating this into my ongoing routine!


What has sold me even further on this product is its ability to aid in healing acne. My 16-year-old son has been suffering with outbreaks for about a year. We've tried ProActive as well as natural remedies trying to find the right fit, and although some results have been noticed with other products, the Glacial Facial Purifying Mud Masque has by far rendered the best results. He let me apply it the first time (and believe me, we battled with my wanting to use the brush - just to touch his face at all was like a gift bestowed by the gods). Now, he's applying the masque himself every other night, and with the brush! He loves it ... he's already requested I order another jar of the product - oh, and a brush for myself (since he's now absconded with mine).


The Glacial Facial is gentle and balanced for all skin types and is allergy-free. There are no synthetics, artificial fragrances, colors or fillers; no propylene glycol; it's paraben-free and cruelty-free; packaging is recyclable and biodegradable.

For more information and purchasing: Alaska Glacial Mud Co.

Aliza Jabès

It all started in 1957, when a Paris pharmacist with a fascination for phytotherapy and aromatherapy founded NUXE. In 1989, Aliza Jabès took over the brand wanting to revive a pioneering cosmetological concept combining nature, health and beauty. Aliza had a great foundation for this growing up. The daughter of a visionary pharmacist, she firmly believes that plants are always at the root of the greatest therapeutic and medicinal discoveries.

Although I adore NUXE products in general (read: Oh my gosh, they're fabulous), what I'd like to draw your attention to is their masks. Ooo la la ...

A highly concentrated cocktail regrouping 18 natural active principles, this smooth and creamy mask will cover your skin to softly purify it. Clay and Birchwood Extract both contribute to visibly tighten your skin while it is refreshed by the energising Grapefruit Extract. A combination of 9 Essential Oils whose natural revitalising powers will tone it as, last but not least the rich and nourishing Allatoin will appease it. Suitable for all skin types, regardless of maturity, however, it is especially recommended for oily or combination skins.

A Spa treatment for dry and tired skins. A huge relaxing bath for both face and eye contour. Baobab and Sweet Almond Oils soothe while Floral Waters (Madagascar Water Lily and Florentine Iris) are combined to treat fragile skins. Liquorice and Prickly Ash soothe your skin.

Treat your skin to this gorgeous luxury. It is a complete sensual experience bathing facial skin with creamy, soothing ingredients; delighting the olfactory senses with precious essential oils. And not too pricey for the pocketbook at $20 - $25 each.

For purchasing or more information: Nuxe.com, Beauty Habit, Beauty Exclusive, b-glowing and other online/boutique sellers.