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. 

La Mer
The Eye Balm Intense
1/19/14

Every winter I change certain skincare products to combat dry skin. I generally reintroduce Crème de la Mer during the day, as well as The Eye Balm Intense. Although I no longer live in a cold climate, my combination skin is both sensitive and reactive, and my allergies can affect my eye area. I've been using La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream at night, but I find it too heavy for day use. Enter The Eye Balm Intense. 

La Mer offers two eye creams, both containing the famed Miracle Broth that made Crème de la Mer famous. I've used both, and this product is by far my favorite. The Eye Balm Intense contains three versions of the Miracle Broth, and promises to reduce puffiness and diminish fine lines and wrinkles, while The Eye Concentrate is billed as targeting dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles. Sounds easy enough to choose, right? Not so much. I don't have any puffiness (knock on wood) and I can get small dark circles with poor sleep and allergies, but I prefer The Eye Balm Intense. The Eye Concentrate is thinner, and my eye area doesn't feel as hydrated as it does when I use The Eye Balm Intense. "Balm" is somewhat of a misnomer, as it's technically a soft cream, and isn't so heavy that you can't wear makeup over it. It's thicker than The Eye Concentrate, but melts into skin. No problems using under-eye concealer with this product, and you'll use far less of it. 

(click photo to enlarge)

Both eye creams are applied with the silver-tipped applicator, which cools the skin and improves micro-circulation. I can't say enough good things about the cooling, metal applicator which is even more gentle than applying cream with your ring finger. While I don't have puffiness, I love the improved circulation in the eye area, which also aids in keeping dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles at bay. Those who do have puffiness will appreciate the cool metal in aiding circulation. This cream also provides a lifting effect, making skin more taut and youthful. 

The light cucumber scent is pleasant and soothing. The Eye Balm Intense maintains hydration all day long, without the need for reapplication. That said, it's also not overkill or greasy. I have used this eye cream for years, and apply Crème de la Mer over it to boost effectiveness. Crème de la Mer is one of very few moisturizers you can apply to your entire eye area, gently locking in moisture. 

My verdict? This eye cream has maintained cult status for good reason. Not only is it incredibly effective at hydrating the eye area and preventing puffiness and wrinkles, but you can also apply your concealer without concern. It's just that good. Comparable eye treatments can cost you nearly $300 or more, yet don't come close to this cult favorite.

La Mer The Eye Balm Intense is $185 for a .5 oz. jar. 

Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus & Barneys. 

Chantecaille Detox Clay Mask
1/5/14

Happy New Year! I haven't posted in quite a while, and I'm really excited about this new discovery. I've been a fan of Chantecaille for quite some time, and I can't believe I waited so long to try their clay mask. I regularly use and love their Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask and Fruit and Flower Acids Mask. 

I'd been using Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque, and had tried other clay masks like Aēsop's Primrose Facial Cleansing Masque but was disappointed. Sure, the Kiehl's mask worked well. But like most clay masks, it left my face feeling tight and would sometimes cause some redness if left on for too long. I'd avoided Chantecaille's clay mask purely because of the color - black. I knew my expensive, soft washcloths would be stained. I read review after review in global fashion and beauty publications with raves about this product. Alas, I could resist no longer.

(click photo to enlarge)

The small jar and somewhat sizable price tag concerned me at first glance. After cleansing my face, I began to apply the mask. I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly and easily it was to apply, and how far such a little amount went. It felt cooling and soothing, and didn't dry like most clay masks. It has a pleasant, spa-like scent of rosemary and other natural ingredients. I expected my face to be charcoal or black, but it actually takes on somewhat of a dark, bluish hue. I waited the instructed 10 minutes before washing it off for the first time. If you've used clay masks, you know how difficult a task it can be to remove them. This mask is completely different. Just a soft washcloth and some warm water, and the mask easily and gently washed off my skin.

About the fourth or fifth use, I realized that 30 minutes had passed and I'd forgotten to wash the mask off. Even though I exceeded the instructed time of 10 minutes, my face wasn't tight whatsoever. None of the usual hard, tight clay mask woes. I believe the honey helps keep the mask from becoming too stiff and uncomfortable. Once again, a little warm water and a soft washcloth was all it took to remove the mask. It really tightens my pores and leaves my skin soft, smooth and glowing. Because it is a purifying or detoxifying mask, any tiny underlying pimples or imperfections immediately come to the surface and are magically gone the following morning. I had certainly never experienced this level of success with any other clay mask. Having both combination and reactive/sensitive skin, this is the ideal purifying mask. Gentle and effective. 

My verdict? The best clay/purifying mask on the market. Totally worth staining one of your best washcloths for. Chantecaille did it again!

Chantecaille Detox Clay Mask with Rosemary and Honey is $78 for a 1.7oz. jar. 

Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Barneys. 

Toners: 
Why Two Can Be Better Than One
11/6/13

Toners are finally in the spotlight, and with good reason. Many women I know skip this step, because the benefits of using a toner have long been unclear and often misunderstood. I consider toner a multipurpose product, from an extension of cleansing and removal of all cleanser, dead skin cells and makeup cleansers can leave behind (especially for ladies who wear foundation), to preparing skin to best accept treatments like serums and moisturizers. Many of today's toners take it a step further, from minimizing pores to fading spots and reducing shine, offering more benefits than ever before. The New York Times took notice of a few standouts, including one I'll be talking about here.  

I've always struggled choosing just the right toner, and settled until a mere month ago. Like most people, I have combination skin. My nose and chin can be oily while the rest of my face is normal/dry, drier during cooler months. My forehead and cheeks crave moisture, while I keep blotting papers around for when my nose and chin get shiny. I've easily used over a dozen different toners since college, and none met all my skin's needs. Many were too drying or harsh (astringent toners) and would even make my cheeks bright red from irritation. Others were too gentle, and didn't clean my pores as much as I like. After years of trial and error it finally occurred to me that I shouldn't force any one toner on my skin if it didn't meet all of my needs. So I selected a toner for my normal/dry areas and another for my normal/oily areas and gave the new regimen a whirl. 

(click photo to enlarge)

Since I've been using La Prairie as my primary skincare brand, I selected two toners from their lineup of four. First up was the Cellular Refining Lotion (blue) for my normal/dry areas and my neck. This alcohol-free toner is very gentle and leaves my skin soft and refreshed, ready for serum and moisturizer both morning and night. It's very lightly fragranced, and manages to be both gentle and effective. It has a water-like consistency and is easily applied with a cotton round. I highly recommend Swisspers, which are inexpensive and gentle. From La Prairie:

• Gently tones and refreshes the skin
• Soothes the skin while it helps minimize pores
• Helps retexturize and smooth the skin
• Rinses away final traces of makeup and impurities that may remain after cleansing

Next was the new and popular Cellular Oil Control Tonic (green) for my nose and chin which tend to be on the oily side. This product has earned raves from W to the New York Times, and I was very excited to try this unique "tonic." The consistency took me by surprise, as it's somewhat gel-like yet can be applied with cotton rounds. It took a day or so to get the hang of how much to apply since it's so different from any toner I've ever used. Once I got into the swing of things, I noticed results from the very first day. I no longer reach for blotting papers several times a day, and I actually rid my chin of the pesky pimple that plagues me once a month. This toner is also alcohol-free and incredibly gentle and soothing while eliminating shine. From La Prairie:

Treats major signs of aging and imperfections while controlling excess oil and shine.

Balances oil and moisture content with smart technology.

Refines the skin’s surface, fades imperfections and evens skin tone while increasing overall luminosity.

Diffuses visible light to reduce the appearance of fine lines and imperfections.

After 21 days of continued use, shown to be as effective as 4% glycolic acid.

How cool is that?! While I'm writing about toners I'm currently using, I've learned to treat my skin's specific needs, and not force one toner or product on my entire face. This idea will work with many other brands that offer options for your skin's needs. Regardless of price, using toners that are suited for your skin's varying needs makes a tremendous difference. I plan to use a couple more reasonably-priced toners soon, as these are not only ridiculously expensive, but are packaged in huge glass bottles - not ideal for travel or clumsy people like myself. 

My verdict? I'll never use a single toner again, unless my skin changes with (gasp) age. While I love the options I've listed here, the idea will work with most brands so don't let these specific price tags scare you! Enjoy the benefits you'll reap from this small change in your regimen, and let me know your results!

La Prairie Cellular Refining Lotion is $95 for an 8.4 oz. bottle. 
La Prairie Oil Control Tonic is $135 for an 8.4 oz. bottle. 

Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks.

Foaming Cleansers
11/4/13

The evolution of cleansers isn't surprising, as consumers expect a lot from products in an over saturated market. I use foaming cleansers on a twice-daily basis, with an exfoliant (review soon) three mornings a week after cleansing. I used cleansing milks and lotions for a long time, blindly assuming they were the most gentle. That said, I never felt like they got my face and neck completely clean - and I don't even wear foundation. I relied on toner to thoroughly clean any residue or film after cleansing. Now I use toner mainly to prepare my skin for treatments like serums and moisturizers. I've compared three different foaming cleansers at varying price points to find the best. I used each cleanser for a full month to test their efficacy, and I chose three brands whose products I use, since they've already established quality and trust. 

First up was Chantecaille, and I had high expectations given how many of their products I use and love. Chantecaille's Rice and Geranium Foaming Cleanser contains rice bran for gentle exfoliation, while geranium acts as an antibacterial. Seaweed regulates sebum production while soybean, green tea and olive leaves are supposed to naturally protect the skin from free radicals. I found that it only took a dime-sized amount to create a nice foaming lather when I rubbed my hands together and applied to a wet face. It does take awhile to fully rinse off, and my skin never felt fully "rinsed." That bugs me. It has the consistency of rice pudding, and it's hard to imagine that is sufficient exfoliation on its own. During that month I also used their Fruit & Flower Acids Mask for proper exfoliation. As far as any scent, there was none to speak of even though they mention a citrus scent. Hm. 

left to right: Chantecaille, La Prairie and NARS

(click photo to enlarge)

Next up was La Prairie, aka my holy grail of skincare at present. La Prairie's Foam Cleanser is true to its name. This water-activated foam in their signature light pink hue is mousse-like in texture until combined with water. It can range from near creamy to super foamy depending on how much water you mix it with. Like Chantecaille, I only need about a dime-sized amount to reach a full lather on my wet face. What I really like about this cleanser is that it doesn't take forever to rinse off, and my skin feels clean without feeling stripped of moisture. The fragrance is quite mild and pleasant. This is strictly a foaming cleanser without an exfoliation element, as La Prairie has two different products meant solely for exfoliation post cleansing. I've found this system incredibly effective, as I prefer a deep exfoliation a few times a week rather than a light daily exfoliation. 

Last but not least was NARS Purifying Foam Cleanser. NARSskin launched last year, completely revamping the brand's skincare line. NARSskin products are grounded in simplicity and are paraben-free, gluten-free, oil-free, alcohol-free and synthetic fragrance free. This cleanser gently exfoliates with botanical exfoliating spheres, while rose and peony extracts soothe skin and reduce shine. Like Chantecaille and La Prairie, a dime-sized amount lathers up a lovely foam which has a refreshing, natural orange scent and rinses off fairly easily. Formulated to prepare the face for makeup, this is a fantastic choice for women who wear foundation. 

My verdict? I bought full-sized bottles of both La Prairie and NARS, and passed on the Chantecaille cleanser. La Prairie is my runaway favorite, in conjunction with their Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator. NARS is fantastic for travel when I want one product that does it all. Chantecaille missed the mark, but I still love many of their other products. 

La Prairie Foam Cleanser is $75 for a 4.2 oz. tube. 
NARS Purifying Foam Cleanser is $29 for a 4.9 oz. tube. 
Chantecaille Rice and Geranium Foaming Cleanser is $60 for a 2.46 oz. tube. 

All available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks. 

La Prairie
Cellular Power Infusion
10/13/13


I'm not quite sure where to start with this skincare "science kit," as I've been referring to it. My beauty bestie insisted I use this before re-entering the La Prairie universe. I began to think of it as sort of a reset button for my skin. I commenced the 28-40 day treatment with healthy skepticism. Like most La Prairie products, there's the initial sticker shock immediately followed by the gotta have it allure. I'm weak. 

Like all La Prairie products, Cellular Power Infusion (CPI) comes packaged in style. A white leather box with embossed tonal logo zips open with a metal logo pull, revealing four glass and metal bottles ensconced in a silver holder. This product manages to be both exciting and intimidating. I removed the first bottle and twisted the bottom, releasing a blue fluid suspended in a clear fluid, creating a light blue liquid fluid when shaken. Holy futuristic skincare, Batman! CPI is to be used twice daily after cleansing and toning, and before serum and moisturizer. There's serious science behind this beauty product, highlighted in this cool video. It's a skincare supplement with a lot of promises. From La Prairie:

• Revitalized, glowing skin returns, as skin’s inherent power is renewed.
• Aging signs seem to diminish as skin cells benefit from enhanced protection against external stress factors.
• Youthful, firmed, resiliency meets your touch as skin tissue is restored.
• The look and feel of younger skin is yours again.

(click photo to enlarge)

I must admit this is a fun product to use, and I looked forward to using it each day. The bottle has a dropper (concealed by the silver top) that provides the perfect amount for face and neck. I dispensed one dropper-full per palm, and gently smoothed it on my face and neck with my fingertips. I found that it took a couple of days to perfect my routine. The consistency is thin, but thick enough not to run. I began noticing results from the first use. After one day my skin felt like silk and had a natural, healthy glow. By week two my pores had seriously tightened, fine lines vanished, and my skin felt new - as though I'd had a peel, but with zero abrasion. By the end of my thirty days, I was a believer. 

But the program doesn't end after the fourth bottle of this miracle potion. CPI is used every three months, intermittently with Cellular Power Charge Night (an intensive serum with Retinol) the two months in between CPI cycles. An expensive yet addictive addition to your regimen. 

My verdict? I was hooked after day one. I tapped the last bottle to get every drop like it was liquid gold. My skin has never looked younger or healthier, which is really the heart of CPI. My skin cells have been renewed, and it shows. I won't be giving up my healthy glow and foundation-free face anytime soon. 

La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion is $475 for a 28-40 day cycle (a box of four bottles).

Available at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Nordstrom. 

Chantecaille
Retinol Hand Cream
10/11/13

A couple of years ago I saw a woman in her forties who had the hands of an 80 year old. As you can imagine, my youth and skin-obsessed self panicked. Could this happen to me?! How good was I with sunscreen on my hands? Who cares if my face looks great if my hands are all wrinkled? Our hands are constantly at work, whether they're typing away, being outdoors or driving in the sun, or dry from frequent hand washing, they sure take a beating. Sun exposure is one of our hands' worst enemies. Think wrinkles AND age spots. Yikes!

I've found a very limited selection of hand creams with SPF, which is bizarre. From Clarins to Kiehl's, many of my go-to day hand creams and lotions have been discontinued, including my beloved Clarins Age-Control Hand Lotion With SPF 15. The name said it all. Since then, I've mixed a couple drops of their UV Plus HP SPF 40 Day Screen with whatever hand cream I use if I'm going outdoors. But what else could I do to proactively prevent my hands from aging prematurely? Enter Chantecaille. 

(click photo to enlarge)

I've had great success with many Chantecaille products, including their Retinol Intense which is an incredibly gentle yet effective anti-aging night cream. Since Retinol can be drying or irritate sensitive skin, I knew I'd likely enjoy this hand cream. It has their signature Rosewater base with Rose, Vitamin C, Retinol, Japanese Mulberry Root, Lily and Bears Berry Root. They're very serious about this whole natural thing, which I know many of you will love. Edelweiss flower provides natural UVA and UVB protection, while Vitamin C (from fresh oranges, of course) protects the skin from free radicals. How cool is that?! The cream is easily distributed on hands, without the need for reapplication. I've been using this every other day since I don't want the Retinol, while gentle in this form, to dry out my nails. The scent is natural, without added perfumes which mainly leaves the scent of natural Rosewater. Not perfume to smell like rose, but actual Rosewater. It feels really good on and is absorbed fairly quickly, leaving hands soft and protected. 

My verdict? This is a fantastic preventative and restorative cream to keep hands even-toned and wrinkle-free. If you have age spots, this cream will lighten them naturally. If you don't have spots, this will prevent them. Plus natural sun protection? What's not to love?

Chantecaille Retinol Hand Cream is $75 for a 2.55 oz. tube. 

Available at Barneys.

Note: it took me forever to track down this cream, and I've spoken with Chantecaille who informed me that they actually ran out! Not to worry. They are actually in the process of producing more, and it will be available at stores like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus shortly. That said, Barney's has some stock left. I stocked up. Get on it!

La Prairie
Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask
10/8/13

It's here! After much anticipation and raves from British Vogue to European beauty bloggers, I pre-ordered this highly-coveted mask from my La Prairie guru. At long last, it arrived last week. The packaging is pure luxury of course, and consistent with the rest of the Skin Caviar Line with a cobalt blue glass jar and silver top. The jar comes with a lovely brush, attached where a spoon would normally be for eye creams, along the silver rim at the base of the jar. Everything about the packaging screams luxury. From the silver boxes to the sealed silver paper, opening a La Prairie product is like opening a present- in every sense. 

I've long sung the praises of overnight masks, which is the optimal time for skin to reap the benefits. I have night and day masks for different needs, from added luminosity and exfoliation to a surge of hydration, and I rely on them about 2-3 timed weekly. Here are La Prairie's listed benefits for the Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask:

"During the night, Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask purifies and refines the skin and thoroughly replenishes it with moisture. 

Firmness is enhanced with caviar extracts and lines are plumped. 

It's an overnight sensation giving noticeable results quickly. Your skin will greet the day with fewer visible wrinkles, a firm look, a smoother texture, and the look of a healthy glow."

(click photo to enlarge)

The application is just plain fun. Instructions indicate to apply generous dots on forehead, cheeks, and chin. Using the brush, I smoothed the mask evenly over my face using upward strokes on my forehead, outward strokes over my cheeks, and downward strokes over my nose and chin. The creamy pink mask easily smoothed over my face with the delicate brush and instantly started to melt into my skin. I've used the mask three times now, and my skin is absolutely radiant the following morning. Fine lines plump up and appear to have vanished, my cheeks and jawline appear firmed, skin feels incredibly soft and smooth and my face is absolutely glowing. 

The first two applications, I let the mask sink into my skin and headed to sleep. The third application I decided to gently smooth the mask into my skin with my fingertips, which is listed as an option on the instruction card. That's the best bet for side sleepers, and it feels really good. It actually forms a clear film, locking in moisture. An overnight mask you can  wear to sleep without shooing (or scaring) your significant other away! The mask can be used 1-3 times per week, and I foresee myself using it twice a week since I like to use other masks as well. The brush can be cleaned with brush cleansers or with gentle soap and water and air dried. When I rinse the mask off, I'm happily surprised by the amount of time I spend rinsing it completely off my skin before cleansing. Who knew how deeply and how much this invisible mask absorbs? Super cool. 

My verdict? Sure, this seems like a heck of a splurge for a mask. I'd guess I'll get about 20 uses out of one jar. Considering what facials cost, it's actually a considerable savings since I think I'll be getting half as many. This is a facial in a jar, my friends.

La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask is $300 for a 1.7 oz. jar. 

Available at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Nordstrom.