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.

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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. 

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."

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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. 

Sisley
Black Rose Cream Mask
8/26/13

Let's sleep on it- or with it on, in this case. I posed the question, "do you use face masks?" on Facebook a few months ago, and was shocked that so many women aren't reaping the benefits of my favorite skincare ritual. I know that time is a major factor for many people, and I'd like to share the time-saving beauty (no pun intended) of masks you can wear overnight. There are no added steps involved, since these masks are applied after cleansing and toning in lieu of a serum and a moisturizer. Sound more enticing yet?

I've had my eye on Sisley's Black Rose Cream Mask after reading an article in a July NYT Fashion & Style article about masks you can leave on overnight. It was photographed beside my beloved NARS Aqua Gel Luminous Mask, and I've been using lots of products with rose water and rose oil to calm inflammation. It basically had my name written all over it. While the Chantecaille Jasmine & Lily Healing Mask has their signature Rosewater base, it's meant to soothe and heal. This new mask by Sisley is their very first to contain anti-aging active ingredients. It brightens the complexion, revitalizes and heals, plumps up fine lines, gives the skin a surge of hydration, and makes my face absolutely radiant. And...you can SLEEP WITH IT ON! No extra time or steps involved, so no excuses! This joins the ranks of some of my all-time favorite overnight masks, shown below. 

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(clockwise from top left): Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask | NARS Aqua Gel Luminous Mask | Chantecaille Jasmine & Lily Healing Mask | Valmont Renewing Pack

I'd received a sample packet of the mask from Nordstrom, and it was enough to cover my face and neck. Given that it's Sisley and priced accordingly, this reassured me that the tube would last for at least two months with twice weekly use. Given that my skin has been inflamed and irritated as of late, I was thrilled that I had no issues which rocks since I never bother doing those patch tests. I applied the mask about an hour before heading to bed and loved the soft, creamy texture. It glided over my face and neck with ease, and was incredibly smooth and cooling. I found the light and lovely scent to be fresh and relaxing. I awoke to perfectly hydrated, luminous skin. My face had a distinct glow, and I knew it was love. Our bodies do miraculous things to heal while we sleep, making nighttime skincare both incredibly important and a good thing to do for yourself. 

The mask can be used two ways; overnight like I enjoy it, or for about 10-15 minutes for a quick boost to revitalize dull or tired skin. Ideal after a long day, before heading out for the evening. Simply apply a generous layer as you would for overnight use, but tissue (not rinse) off any remaining product. Your skin will look radiant and stay hydrated all night. And let's not forget about the anti-aging active ingredients. This is a fantastic substitute for a moisturizer on days or nights when your skin needs a pick-me-up. 

My verdict? This dual-purpose mask can revitalize the complexion and provide a surge of hydration when skin appears tired or dull. Whether you're recovering from a late night out or want to improve your skin's radiance while you sleep, Sisley has formulated their best mask yet. This mask is already a cult favorite, and is often sold out at many stores. The secret is out!

Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask is $158 for a 2.1 oz. tube. 

Available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, & Saks. 

Chantecaille Healing Mask

Chantecaille
Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask
8/5/13

I became a Chantecaille fan after falling in love with their Retinol Intense Cream. I still can't get over how incredibly gentle that cream is, and had high hopes for the rest of their line. I knew any brand who managed to make a gentle and soothing Retinol cream was capable of other skincare magic. I decided to purchase the Chantecaille Anniversary Set from Nordstrom to get a better feel for their full product range, from eye creams to serums and masks. I'd read raves about their Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask, and was thrilled that a deluxe sample was included in the set. 

From the moment I began applying the mask, my skin felt cool and instantly soothed. It has a very light and pleasant scent, with rosewater as the product's base. Directions indicate to apply a generous layer twice a week for 10-20 minutes, or leave the mask on overnight as a nighttime moisturizer. Love that! I'd only left it on for about 20 minutes the first night, but was amazed how soft and bright my skin looked the following morning. I immediately ordered a full-size jar. 

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My new mask arrived last week in Chantecaille's very zen and high-end glass jar with a heavy lid that feels like polished stone. Because I wasn't already psyched enough about this product? Wow. You know how much I appreciate good design. Coincidentally, my skin was rather angry the day of the mask's arrival; my cheeks were super flushed and hot to the touch, and I was developing my monthly pimple on my chin. I washed my face, toned with my Clarins toner (alcohol-free), and generously applied the mask to my face of fire. Within minutes, the same cooling and soothing properties took effect. I decided to leave the mask on for a full hour, and as I rinsed it off I noticed that the redness and irritation had vanished, and my skin felt soft and smooth. Even my emerging monthly pimple seemed to be retreating. For those with roseacea, Chantecaille lists this as an incredibly effective treatment for daily use. Also noted for relieving sun and windburned skin, jet-lagged skin, and pretty much any form of irritation. 

Last night I decided to use the mask as my nightly moisturizer since my skin has been so irritated lately. Allergies, medications, and any sort of imbalance can do a number on me and my poor skin. I sleep on a silk pillowcase so I don't get creases on my eye area, and because silk also helps your skin and hair retain moisture. I'm happy to report that I awoke without a sign of irritation and with outstanding hydration. I don't foresee myself being without my healing mask anytime soon. 

My verdict? This dual-purpose healing mask and calming night cream is like nothing I've ever tried in any price range. Applying a generous layer doesn't actually take long and uses much less product than I originally thought, making it last at least a month if used twice a week. Worth every penny, and then some. My skin loves this as both a mask and a calming night cream. Win/win. 

Chantecaille Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask is $79 for a 1.7 oz. jar. 

Available at Neiman Marcus, Barneys, & Bergdorf Goodman. 

Hydrating Mask

NARS Aqua Gel Luminous Mask
7/9/13

I know many women don't wear masks, and I'm hoping this easy and super hydrating mask will encourage even one woman to give it a try. I personally love masks, and experience many positive results after use - not to mention that I find them to be very relaxing and a nice way to wind down after a hectic day. I've tried enough to distinguish the good from the bad, so any mask I blog about is something I've used repeatedly. I use masks that brighten, refine pores, exfoliate, lift/firm, soothe/calm and hydrate. That's a lot to sort through! I'm happily working my way through them all and sharing my experiences. 

Now that I've finished my ode to why I love masks, I'm excited to talk about one of my new favorites. NARS has always been known for their fabulous makeup, but they recently reformulated their skincare line and relaunched it last year. Practice makes perfect, and I immediately fell in love with this intensive hydrating mask that smoothes and softens the skin while natural botanicals enhance collagen production. Youthful glow? Yes please! It's also Synthetic Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free and Gluten-Free. This is good stuff, my friends. Great for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

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The mask super simple to use and remove. For a quick burst of hydration and a dewy refreshed glow in a hurry, cleanse skin and massage a generous amount on face and neck, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 5-10 minutes. The texture is incredibly soft, smooth and soothing. Then simply tissue off remaining product (your skin will drink up most of the mask) and follow with a toner. You won't need moisturizer after this ultra hydrating treatment. My favorite way to use the mask is to massage a super generous amount on my face and neck about an hour before bedtime, and allow the mask to work its magic while I sleep. If you follow my blog regularly, you already know how strongly I feel about using the right products at night when the body is in healing mode. This product is gentle and effective, leaving your skin radiant, silky smooth and hydrated come morning. What a nice way to start the day! 

My verdict? By far the best hydrating mask I've tried, bar none. The radiance and youthful glow are welcome bonuses. I highly recommend using it overnight to reap the most benefits. But starting slowly with a 10 minute trial run will win you over as well. A must-have.

I order my NARS products directly from my NARS and beauty guru in LA via phone and email. He's the skincare god who taught me the overnight method. They offer free shipping and generous samples to boot. Here's his contact info:

Michael Duquette | Award Winning, NARS-Certified Resident Artist

Nordstrom at The Grove 

323.900.1417

Michael.Duquette@nordstrom.com

NARS Aqua Gel Luminous Mask is $39 for a 2.6 oz. bottle. 

Or order from Nordstrom online, but you won't get extra, fun NARS samples. 

Clay Masks
5/28/13

While I often have a tendency to break the bank with skincare products, some of my favorites are a total steal- often better than their expensive counterparts. I love masks, and have many for different purposes. Deep cleaning, purifying, hydrating, exfoliating, soothing, nourishing, brightening...it's astounding how many options are available. Today I'm focusing on two clay masks: Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque and Aēsop Primrose Facial Cleansing Masque. The goal? Deep pore cleansing and, hopefully, pore tightening! As I'm getting...wiser, I've noticed enlarged pores which of course has me searching for products and treatments to correct and halt this nonsense. I mainly struggle with enlarged pores on my nose and on my cheeks just adjacent to my nose. Fortunately the rest of my T-zone hasn't been plagued with enlarged pores (fingers crossed). 

Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque promises to "purify, detoxify, and minimize the appearance of large pores." The mask comes in a generous 5oz tub, and has a smooth and creamy texture that feels cool and soothing on the skin. After cleansing, I apply the mask on damp skin, avoiding my eye area. They say to apply a thin layer, but I slather it on until it's opaque which isn't difficult. The mask dries in about 10-15 minutes, after which I rinse off with warm water and a gentle, high-quality washcloth. Unlike a lot of clay masks I've tried, it's surprisingly easy to rinse off. I then finish with my normal nighttime products. I've absolutely noticed a decrease in the appearance of pores on my cheeks and nose, and am shocked by the bang for the buck with this product. I used it consistently twice a week for a month and the jar is just about half empty. 

Aēsop has been all the rage among beauty bloggers and fashion gurus, so I've slowly been getting my feet wet with their line. The Primrose Facial Cleansing Masque promises to "decongest, refresh, and hydrate, similar to the Kiehl's mask. The glass jar is rather small, and I nearly used the entire jar in three weeks. The texture is vastly different than I expected. I found it to be slightly grainy and it's fairly quick to dry, making for hurried, sloppy application. Instructions indicate leaving the mask on for 15 minutes and rinsing off with warm water. I definitely needed and used a washcloth to aid this process, as it wasn't easy. I used this mask for nearly three weeks and really didn't notice an improvement in pore size. I'll likely use it until I finish the jar, but I don't foresee myself purchasing this product again. That said, I will continue trying other Aēsop products.

My verdict? Kiehl's is the runaway winner, and a new staple in my skincare regimen. 

Kiehl's Rare Earth Cleansing Masque is $23 for 5 oz.
Aēsop Primrose Facial Cleansing Masque is $35 for 2.47 oz.

Both available at: Barneys