Crème de la Mer
5/31/13

I've never known a skincare product more iconic and coveted than this classic face cream. "Born of the sea," the tale of scientist Max Huber's chemical experiment gone awry and subsequent burning of his face lead him to research and perfect the formula that restored his skin. Twelve years and 6,000 experiments later, the world was introduced to La Mer and its Miracle Broth. A combination of sea kelp and a mixture of "pure and simple ingredients," undergo a "biofermentation process using light and sound to transform the ingredients." Say what? All I recall is needing to get my mitts on this pricey miracle jar, stat!

My first jar was purchased using parental funds during my art school years in Bergdorf's glorious beauty basement. We're talking an entire level dedicated to beauty, my friends. It's how I like to imagine heaven, should I be granted admittance. I had my eye on the prize, and watched gleefully as the beauty consultant wrapped the lovely green box in tissue paper and placed it in a little Bergdorf bag. To my delight, she also included various samples of luxurious goodies from the La Mer line! I was also given special instructions regarding application of the cream, which was certainly a first. 

After fifteen years of purchasing this cream on my own dime, I can't imagine living without it. It's quite rich, so I use it as my night cream. While even the smallest jar is rather expensive, it lasts for about three months with nightly use. It comes with a spoon applicator to keep the jar germ-free. After cleansing, toning and serum, I put a small amount (pea size) on my fingertips using the spoon, and warm the cream between my hands to activate the Miracle Broth. I then gently pat my face and neck with the cream until absorbed. It can also be used on the delicate eye area. How great is that?! I have normal/combination skin and have never broken out or experienced any adverse reactions from this product. No matter what the climate, nightly use allows your skin to soak up the moisture and other benefits without worrying about daytime use. It's so intensive that I think twice daily use would be overkill. When I awake each morning, my skin is dewy and glowing. It's my miracle jar. 

La Mer's line has expanded greatly throughout the years, and this moisturizer is also offered in "soft cream" and lotion formulations. I've used their lotion (not worth it), lip balm (to die for) and The Eye Balm Intense. I won't touch on the eye balm in this post, because it deserves a post all its own. 

My verdict? It's not just hype. This is the real deal, and will always remain a part of my nighttime regimen. 

La Mer The Moisturizing Cream is $150/1 oz., $275/2 oz., & $1900/16.4 oz.


Available at Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, & Barneys.