Sisley Black Rose
Precious Face Oil
8/26/14

The beauty world and beauty-conscious consumers embraced and adored Sisley's Black Rose Cream Mask, so naturally their first face oil (the second product in the Black Rose line) was highly anticipated by Sisley fans around the world. With different global launch dates, I felt especially lucky to get my hands on a bottle a full month before the majority of other regions. In skincare time, that's akin to a year!

With strategically-placed beautiful yet minimal ads (teasers, really) in publications like Vogue and W, the mysterious oil was featured on popular "must have" and "favorites" pages of well respected beauty editors who'd received sample bottles ahead of the launch. The product was a huge success long before its official launch date in the U.S. alone, thanks to endless praise from highly selective beauty editors and publications revered by skincare junkies like myself. Oh, how I love a fabulous marketing campaign.

(click photo to enlarge)

Sisley is one of few ultra high-end skincare brands that can get away with product videos like this, offering little to no information about the product. It's the allure. The prestige. The brand history. Having religiously used the Black Rose Cream Mask overnight twice a week for over a year, I could hardly contain myself when I got my hands on the oil. They recommend using the oil once a day, day or night before other skincare treatments. I have chosen to use it at night, before Chantecaille's Retinol Intense, which is the night cream I've been using as of late. Wow, wow WOW! It has the same lovely rose scent as the mask, and quite literally feels hydrating and nourishing as I gently glide the oil over my face and neck with my fingertips. Six to seven drops is more than enough for my face, neck and décolletage. 

After one night I was sold on the intensive hydration and radiance this oil gives my skin. I'm no stranger to face oils, but I can't name one that comes close to providing the benefits I reap from using Sisley's first face oil. By providing the ultimate in hydration, it both smooths any fine lines and prevents new lines from forming. Why mask or put a Band-Aid on something that can both treat and prevent? My sensitive and reactive skin can easily make or break a product after one use. I'm often asked by readers if products are "lifting." This product doesn't make any lifting promises, nor do most face oils. If you're looking for a product that will help lift or tighten skin, I recommend seeking that benefit from a serum, which would be applied after this oil. Both La Mer and La Prairie have serums that do just that. I wouldn't recommend getting into that type of product just yet, for most of my readers. They are often incredibly expensive and unnecessary until skin starts to lose its elasticity as you near your late 40s or enter your 50s.

The promise: 

Immediately, lines are smoothed, the skin is intensely nourished, supple and soft. All day long, the skin is moisturized and comfortable, without a shiny effect. After 4 weeks, wrinkles and fine lines are visibly reduced. The skin regains its fullness, and is toned and revitalized. The complexion is radiant.

Active Ingredients: 

• Plum oil (rich in omega 6): strengthens the barrier function and brings comfort and suppleness to the skin
• Camelina oil (rich in omega 3 and 6): nourishes, soothes and preserves the skin's lipid balance
• Phytosqualane: nourishes, moisturizes and strengthens the skin's protective film
• Natural Tocopherols: help to combat free radicals
• Unsaponifiables of avocado: regenerate, repair, nourish, soothe
• Padina pavonica: stimulates synthesis of glycosaminoglycans
• Black Rose extract: moisturizes and softens
• Bulgarian Rose essential oil: tones
• Magnolia essential oil: soothes
• Geranium essential oil: purifies

My verdict? An instant favorite. Sisley proved the power of these ingredients with their overnight mask, and the fact that I can treat my skin to this every night is delightful. My Chantecaille Retinol Intense night cream goes on incredibly smoothly, the oil cuts down on the amount of cream I use and I awake with glowing, perfectly hydrated skin. Anyone with normal/dry or sensitive skin will benefit from this powerful oil. Another home run from Sisley!

Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil is $235 for an .84 oz bottle. 

Available at: Barneys, Neiman Marcus & Nordstrom. 

La Mer:
The Concentrate
8/12/14

Although I'd received small samples of this wonder serum over the years, I never really understood how or why I should use The Concentrate. While I've been a devout fan of the original Crème de la Mer and The Eye Balm Intense since my college years (completely my roommate's fault), this product was a complete mystery to me. The problem with La Mer products is that they're like potato chips and Chanel nail polishes – you can't have just one. I went from using the original Crème de la Mer to using The Eye Balm Intense, then The Hand Treatment, The Lip Balm, The Cleansing Foam, The Hydrating Infusion, The Mist, and so on and so forth. I won't continue my embarrassingly long list. You get the idea.

(click photo to enlarge)

I'm now knee-deep in The Concentrate, and lemme tell ya – it's true love. Sure, it was created by a scientist to help heal burns and skin wounds and all sorts of scary skin ailments. Now imagine what it does for healthy skin. That's right. We're talking flawless. Heaven for an admitted skincare perfectionist. Any teeny tiny fine lines I had? Gone. A hint of an old scar? Gone. All flaws gone! Aside from banishing any minor imperfections, my skin has never looked better. My pores are minuscule, any redness or unevenness in skintone is immediately corrected, and my skin is glowing. I would bathe in the stuff if I could. I've even taken to applying it around my eye area prior to applying either the Crème de la Mer (safe for use on the eye area, including eyelids) or under my eye cream. I also apply it on my neck and décolletage, of course. 

My verdict? Worth every penny. Whether you have scars and your skin needs TLC or simply want to use The Concentrate as an omg, endless compliment-inducing skin miracle, you can't go wrong. There's no other product like it. Is it overkill for people with great skin? Sure. But there is no shame in my game. My skin may be pretty darn flawless, but this is my secret weapon to keeping it that way– and I do enjoy the compliments. ;)

La Mer 'The Concentrate' is $425 for a 1.7 oz. bottle, & $325 for a 1 oz. bottle. 

Available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Barneys & La Mer online. 

AMOREPACIFIC
Treatment Enzyme Peel

Are you still using one of those harsh exfoliators with scrubbing beads that feel like sandpaper? Well, the word is out: it's all about enzymes. I'd tried countless exfoliating scrubs from Bliss (not a good experience) to La Prairie, and settled with what I thought was the best out there. To think I was subjecting my sensitive, generally pampered skin to such cruelty is criminal. 

Now, we know I love my Chantecaille products, and their masks are among the best I've tried. Their exfoliating solution is the Fruit and Flower Acids Mask has been my go-to exfoliator – until now. Sensitive-skinned friends, we have a winner. 

(click photo to enlarge)

Oh my. Why the heck am I just now discovering the wondrous world of AMOREPACIFIC?! My beauty guru had been lovingly nudging me to get my feet wet with this standout Korean brand, and I started with their Treatment Enzyme Peel. Peel sounds harsh, yes? Something you get done periodically at the dermatologist or your facialist, followed by three days at home with scary red face. Fortunately, this enzyme peel dissolves dead skills without any harsh ingredients or face-reddening chemicals, readying skin for serums and moisturizers. Much like Tatcha's Enzyme Powders for cleansing, the AMOREPACIFIC bottle packaging  automatically dispenses the proper amount of product (powder) into the palm of your hand, which turns into a gentle foam when mixed with water. Simply massage on your face, neck and décolletage for a minute and rinse. It's designed to be used as often as you like. No, seriously. It's that gentle. I keep it in my shower and use it 2-3 mornings a week. My skin immediately feels transformed, from the gloriously smooth texture to the lovely glow. It's simply perfection. 

My verdict? Not only am I in love with the Treatment Enzyme Peel, but I've since tried three of their other products and am head over heels. No more scrubby beads! The best new product I've tried in at least a year. 

AMOREPACIFIC Treatment Enzyme Peel is $60 for a 2.7 oz. bottle. 

Available through AMOREPACIFIC, as well as Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. 

In the Shower with Tom Ford: 
Neroli Portofino
5/18/14

I've become obsessed with all things Tom Ford as of late, from his luxurious nail lacquers, Alix bags, lipsticks, fragrances and now bath & body products. My last post featured more affordable bath and body options, so this post is all about luxury. I'd read and heard raves about TF Neroli Portofino, and decided to try the shower gel and the body oil. I've been super into skin oils as of late, from face to body. I bought the shower gel because I wanted to continue the scent throughout my routine. I don't advise mixing scents, unless they're complementary. It's also a lovely sensory experience, which I've been thoroughly enjoying.

The shower gel is pretty on par with any other high quality shower gel, and a little goes a long way on a loofah or sponge. I imagine one bottle will last 4-5 months. Neroli Portofino works for both men and women, working with our body chemistry. Now don't get me wrong – this isn't one of those cK one situations, which made every woman I know smell, well, like a dude. This is definitely gender-neutral, and reminiscent of a day at the beach –  in the Italian Riviera. What's not to love?

(click photo to enlarge)

Then there's the body oil. Oh, the oil! I like to use body oils in the summer in lieu of perfume, as I find perfumes too heavy and obtrusive in warmer weather. The oil smells heavenly from the moment you open the flip top (helping control the amount dispensed) and much like the shower gel, a little goes a long way. The body oil feels like silk as I smooth it over my skin, and is readily absorbed. My skin drinks it up and is left glowing and soft, with the sexy, sultry scent of Neroli Portofino. Notes include: bergamot, lemon, mandarin, lavender, myrtle, rosemary, orange bitter, Egyptian jasmine, neroli, orange blossom water, pittosporum, woody amber accord, ambrette seeds, angelica root. Sexy, subtle, summery. I awake every morning with the scent subtly lingering on my skin.

My verdict? I've been using this duo for about two months now, and receive compliments regularly. Of course I never say what I'm actually wearing. That would be too easy! I can't imagine going without these products or this scent this or any summer. It's highly addictive. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Shower Gel is $65 for an 8.5 oz. bottle. 
Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Body Oil is $70 for an 8.5 oz. bottle. 

Available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks. 

Bath & Body:
Dry Skin in Spring?
4/4/14

The flowers are starting to bloom, the trees are getting lush and green and...my allergies are wreaking havoc on my body! Well this is definitely a first for me. Outside of the typical runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes, I'm suddenly suffering from dry skin this Spring. The first area I noticed some dryness was on my arms, particularly my upper arms. My usual lotions and potions weren't cutting it, so I thought I'd share some successful, reasonably-priced products that relieved my dry skin.

First I switched to a natural and soothing body wash. So many shower gels and soaps can strip the skin of natural oils, which is especially problematic if you're already suffering from dry skin. I'd used Jurlique products before and consider it to be a solid natural beauty brand. Less expensive than Dr. Hauschka, they have a wide array of bath and body as well as facial products. I selected their Rose Shower Gel, and have been impressed. In case I haven't touted it enough by now, I'm a huge fan of products containing rose and believe in the healing powers of the rose. It's not just a fad or especially unique ingredient, but it is something I have been seeking out for quite some time. A little bit goes a long way on a bath sponge, and this healing and soothing shower gel leaves my skin hydrated and healthy.

(click photo to enlarge)

Kiehl's Crème de Corps body lotion has been my go-to dry skin reliever for years, but it couldn't cut the mustard this time. Their Superbly Restorative Argan Body Lotion contains Argan oil (from Morocco), which is widely used in skin and hair products for its repairative and hydrating properties. This lotion is a happy medium between a body lotion like Crème de Corps and a body oil. For those new to using body or facial oils, it's a great introduction. The rate at which my skin absorbs this lotion is astounding. My skin literally drinks this readily and it doesn't leave a messy residue or take awhile to fully absorb like some lotions can. I was sold after using this product once. My skin was instantly hydrated and healed. I happened to notice that one of the first ingredients listed is Squalane, something often found in facial skincare products.

My verdict? I don't believe in investing tons of money in body care products when there are so many fantastic, moderately-priced products available. Both products are my new go-to dry skin relievers. It's been quite awhile since I've stumbled upon such transformative bath & body products. Save the big bucks for your facial skincare. 

Jurlique Rose Shower Gel is $22 for just over 10 oz. Available at Julique online, Whole Foods and other natural stores. 

Kiehl's Superbly Restorative Argan Body Lotion is $38 for a 6.8 fl. oz. pump & $55 for a 16 fl. oz. Pump. Available in Kiehl's stores or Kiehl's online, and at retailers like Nordstrom & Neiman Marcus. 

La Prairie

Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream

2/24/14

I would be remiss not to post about this coveted, luxury eye cream after my review of La Mer's 'The Eye Balm Intense'. Since I've found myself ensconced in La Prairie over the past year, I purchased their Skin Caviar Lifting Luxuries Set, which included a full size jar of this eye cream. The packaging is gorgeous and in keeping with the Skin Caviar line with its blue glass jar, metallic cap and trim with spoon holder for the signature La Prairie embossed spoon. Lovely on any vanity tray. But what does it do?

Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream promises to solve all of our eye area woes. True to its name, it promises to help restore firmness and elasticity, deeply moisturize the eye area and reduce the look of dark circles and puffiness. That's a tall order! I find the cream to be quite rich, and have been using it solely at night. It's too rich for eye makeup, and could easily turn mascara into a hot mess. I prefer the benefits and texture of La Mer 'The Eye Balm Intense' for day use, as it's both cooling and lighter in texture. 

(click photo to enlarge)

After cleansing and toning, I start with La Prairie Essence of Skin Caviar Eye Complex, which is a fancy name for a highly-effective eye serum. Since most eye creams shouldn't be applied to eyelids, the serum is a necessity for me. A little bit goes a long way with this rich cream, which helps ease the sticker shock. Just less than 1/4 of a spoon is enough for the entire eye area, including between and above the brows and from the sides to the hairline, as well as below the eyes. I always apply eye area treatments before facial serums and creams, or they tend to pill or flake. 

I honestly didn't notice much of a difference until about three weeks after beginning the treatment, and I'm still somewhat on the fence. It's certainly hydrating, and my eye area is still dewy in the morning. Bonus points there, since moisture prevents wrinkles. I don't have puffiness (knock on wood), so I can't comment on that. As far as lifting and firming benefits, I think I'm too young to truly reap the benefits this luxury cream offers. Sure, it's delightfully hydrating and I have seen fine lines vanish. But is it worth it?

My verdict? Although it looks lovely on my vanity and hydrates my eye area through the night, I think those with deeper wrinkles and puffiness would benefit more from this cream. I imagine I'll revisit this cream in about a decade - and I'll be happily using it up - but I'm going to start using my beloved La Mer 'The Eye Balm Intense' both day and night. It's about $125 cheaper and addresses my needs at present. 

La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream is $310 for a .68 oz. jar. 

Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. 

Winter Body Care:
Kiehl's Creme de Corps Moisturizer &
Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish
1/24/14

In addition to changing my facial skincare routine for cold weather, I also change my body care products. During summer months, I use a lot of fresh citrus-scented products. Colder weather calls for a thicker, more intensive moisturizer and frequent exfoliation to keep my skin soft and hydrated. Creme de Corps is one of Kiehl's best sellers, with good reason. The rich body moisturizer is enriched with Beta-Carotene, Cocoa Butter, Sesame Oil and Squalane, which helps restore our skin's moisture balance. The cream is unscented and offered in a wide array of sizes, from travel-sized options to the 1 liter pump shown below. 

(click photo to enlarge)

The texture is thick, but smooth. While quite rich, it's readily absorbed by the skin and only takes a few minutes to fully absorb. Unlike most body butters, application is a breeze. I find most body butters to be thick and cumbersome, and often sit on top of the skin needing to be massaged in for proper absorption. This is fine for smaller areas like feet, but who wants to waste time and money on body butter everyday? Creme de Corps provides skin the moisture it craves all winter long. For those who like the idea of a body butter, Creme de Corps offers a Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter, which has a slightly sweet scent and isn't nearly as thick as a typical body butter. 

Unlike summer months, I exfoliate my skin in the shower at least 3-4 times a week. What better pairing than Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish? Honey, Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil are key to this gentle and effective body exfoliant. It leaves skin incredibly soft and primed to receive moisturizer. 

My verdict? This is a winning combination for soft, hydrated skin all winter long. With the wide array of sizes available, it's also travel and budget friendly. Thumbs up!

Creme de Corps is available in a wide array of sizes, from a 2.5 oz. bottle for $11 to a 1 liter pump (shown above) for $75. 

Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish is available in a 2.5 fl. oz. tube for $11, or an 6.8 fl. oz. tube (shown above) for $30.

Available at Kiehl's, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.