Monthly Archives: November 2009

Epione Beverly Hills SPF 30

EPIONE! SPF 30 FULL SPECTRUM SUN PROTECTION

Body Beautiful Body

These days, especially during the summer months I completely make every attempt to keep the sun off of my face and body. For YEARS I would spend every weekend and my two week vacations taking my lawn chair to the beach along with a good mystery and I’d sit my bikini covered buttocks down on my lawn chair which was always strategically placed IN the water, just on the edge of the lake. I always had the perfect people watching spot and would sit there for at least 8 hours a day! I would bake in the sun until I was a beautifully glazed brown! I am a good tanning candidate and it takes a lot for me to get a burn. What a gift huh? My mom, in the early days of my life was a tanner too! She had the darkest tan of anybody I ever met! When she was around, she would put on some short terry cloth shorts and a matching terry cloth halter top (much like the look of the 1940’s) and lay out in our front yard slathered in OLIVE OIL! Truth – I kid you not! It probably was the secret to her fabulous tan but man oh man, olive oil on baked-in-the-sun-skin is SO not a good smell! Gagging as I write this…Obviously I inherited the tanning gene. A few years ago I finally realized that what I was doing to my skin was STUPID and dangerous. I did use SOME sunscreen during these marathons at the beach and it usually was Coppertone #4 because I loved the smell and figured it did do a little something to protect me from the sun’s rays! It was my token acknowledgment to sunburn prevention. More times than not, after I had been in the water, I wouldn’t reapply sunscreen unless I felt something was starting to blister! I was always able to acquire a very dark tan and because of this I pretty much worked my skin into a brown frenzy which in later years resulted in sun damage and age spots. These gems are a daily reminder that I was SO STUPID to bake my body like I always did. Let me say if I could have a ‘do over’ I’d SO have never ever spent all that time frying my poor skin! Sunscreen really was about ‘amplifying’ the sun so you’d get even tanner rather than any real type of skin cancer prevention back then! People actually put iodine in their baby oil or suntan lotion to make their skin appear even darker back in my youth! Yes, even I tried the iodine thing at least once! I remember going to the drugstores and smelling each lotion and sometimes THAT was my criteria for which suntan product I’d take to the beach – if it smelled yummy I’d buy it! What’s wrong with this picture?

There is no magic cream I can put on my body that will overnight bring me back the lovely youthful porcelain skin I began with. I have to deal with what I have now because I helped create it and those spots are all over my body except for my buttocks because THAT was the only part that was constantly covered! Who hopes I am including a photo of my buttocks with this review? Every time I see a young girl with unmarred lovely white skin I want to run up and tell her how fabulous her skin is and to never start tanning! I try to put on sunscreen every time I go outdoors these days but it’s not second nature so I have to really think about slathering it on before I go out. There are SO many brands out there to chose from. Lucky for ME that Meg has sent me several lovely sun screen brands to test out! Today I’m going to give a little shout out to Epione of Beverly Hills SPF 30 Full Spectrum Sun Protection!

The SPF 30 Epione sunscreen comes in a 2.0 oz tube (not very large so a person might use it up quite quickly, unfortunately). It has a lovely creamy texture and it’s somewhat thick, so when you rub it in, you feel like you are truly getting some high quality product on your skin! If you touch the area where you put the sunscreen about five minutes later, it’s still there! You really feel like it’s making a protective barrier wherever you put it. I filled my bathtub up and got in with the sunscreen on and my floaties and pretended I was playing at the beach for an extended period of time to test it out. (This could be true – you don’t know…) I noticed that the water kind of bounced off of my skin which, again, showed me that the product was undoubtedly providing an invisible barrier from unwanted sunbeams. I also noticed that my skin feels incredibly soft wherever I put on the lotion and not tacky in any way. I was hoping for a more tropical fragrance however. But the fragrance seems to leave the area within a short span of time so my thoughts are – what is the purpose of this product – TO KEEP BAD SUNRAYS OFF OF ME! It’s not a perfume, so there you go. The next time I can even bear to be outside in the sun – it’s 95 humid degrees here today (I’m melting) – I will be conducting an actual sun rainin’ down on me experiment to see if it truly blocks the sun and I’ll report back immediately with my results on that aspect!

The Epione sunscreen was created by Dr. Simon Ourian who is the Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills. Dr. Ourian was unhappy with the quality of sun blocks offered at pharmacies & department stores so he created his own formulas which comes in very simple packaging. No bells and whistles, just a quality product. Dr. Ourian points out that sun damage destroys collagen and skin tone, causes wrinkles and discoloration and generally makes people look older! I wonder if he needs a poster child for all those things – I happen to know someone!! Dr. Ourian is currently making it possible for not only his patients but non-patients like yourself to purchase this highly coveted sun protection! He suggests you pair it up with Epione Signature Series Restoration Firm and Fade cream for optium results. I have to say, this sun protection cream is very luxurious and feels much like a high end face cream! I read that you can remove it with soap and water! WOW!!!! If you actually have to REMOVE it – that’s outstanding! That means this stuff stays on you like like duct tape sticks to your boyfriend’s favorite ripped out tennis shoes! I can’t wait to give it a real challenge! It contains SPF 30 and provides both UVB and UVA protection. It’s priced at $45.00 a tube. Speaking of duct tape, I’ll totally be hoarding this lovely creamy $45.00 sunscreen to myself and keep it duct taped to my thigh so nobody else can use it. Have I mentioned how outstanding it makes your skin feel?

What do you ladies think of Epione’s Premier SPF 30 Full Spectrum Sun Protection?

Skin by Monica Radiance Brightener

SKIN BY MONICA TRAVEL KIT FOR WOMEN

I travel all the time. So, needless to say, I am always on the lookout for amazing products that will get me through security without hassle. I refuse to sacrifice the quality and consistency of my beauty routine just because it needs to be packaged in 3 ounce bottles! Humph!

Well, all I needed to do was read the promo for SKIN by Monica’s Travel Kit for Women:

“TSA hasn’t been making it exactly easy on women when packing for a trip. To make your life easier, we have manufactured travel size versions of your favorite Skin by Monica products packaged in a clear TSA approved travel kit. Just because you’re on the go doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to spa quality products!”

See! How can you resist that?! I had to try it, and I am so glad I did. I was introduced to this line a few months ago, and have been very impressed with all of the products. All products are rich in essential oils, and organic ingredients. Right now I am loving the O2 pH balancing spray to rehydrate my skin after long flights.

The kit includes:

LUSCIOUS moisturizing shampoo
SILK moisturizing conditioner
NUDE moisture rich body lotion
DRY antiperspirant and deodorant
PERFECTION C vitamin C cream
O2 pH balancing spray
RESTORE MSM facial cleanser
toothbrush and body soap!

Signature 23 Skin Care


Signature 23 Skincare Review

There are so many great skincare products out there that it is hard to know which ones to buy. So I am telling you now- go buy Signature23. It is fabulous. I received some samples from them and have really enjoyed using them. Here is some info about the company from the site:
“Signature23, is inspired to you by Suzanne, a professional athlete and professional makeup artist. Her secret is to promote cellular energy, so your skin can perform at its best everyday. She has designed simple, practical and natural ways to get younger looking skin to help find balance and peace of mind to every lifestyle.
The Signature23 brand is respected for its high quality, natural ingredients. The last 4 years we’ve been working with a well known chemist and development team to design luxurious formulations to make a positive change in your skin.
Signature23 Skincare. Born in Manhattan Beach. A collection of lifestyle skincare products. Designed for the skin needs for men and women. Simple and dependable skincare products for busy lifestyles.”
I had the chance to sample the Vita-C Elixir, the C23 Lifestyle Day Cream, the CrystalMicroderm Exfoliating Treatment. All of the products are so great but my favorite is the exfoliating treatment. It makes my skin feel so good afterward but not to where I feel like I scrubbed my face off. All of the products feel soothing on my skin and it really feels that all the natural goodness in them is nourishing my face.

Skin Authority


Skin Authority – Go Gorgeous Kit Review & Giveaway- CLOSED

I have always been interested in trying new skin care products – especially if they are in a price range I can afford without having to go without bread and milk for the week – you know what I mean? Have you seen the prices of some of the new stuff on the market lately?!! Unreal!!

Although I don’t have major complaints about the products I’ve used in the past, I’ve never really felt like jumping up and down to tell anyone about them either. Yeah they made my skin feel good but I never really noticed any dramatic changes.

Well that was until recently, when I actually found some products that do something beyond making your skin feel soft they give you noticeable results!

I was sent a GO! Gorgeous Kit from Skin Authority to review.

The kit contains 4 personal size products (0.7fl oz each)a Daily Cleanser, Resurfacing Accelerator, a Tri-Power Peptide Hydrator and Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30. The tube size looks deceivingly small but each is enough to do a full 21 day skin care regime.

Daily Cleanser

This lightweight, fragrance free wash gently removes dirt and oil from the face and body, and loosens dead skin cells, leaving the skin refreshed, soft, and primed for daily regimen. Glycolic Acid 3%, pH 4.0.

Resurfacing Accelerator

This powerful, exfoliating gel derived from sugar cane accelerates the body’s natural cellular turnover cycle to improve rough, scarred, dry or dull skin caused by aging, acne, or sun damage. Regular use helps smooth rough texture and brightens treated areas. Glycolic Acid 15%, pH 3.69.

Tri-Power Peptide Hydrator

Advanced peptides and neuropeptides, including hexapeptide, pentapeptide-3, and oligopeptide at low pH help firm, tone, smooth, lift, and brighten the skin reducing the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles. This lightweight formulation combines intense hydration with the anti-aging benefits of peptides, vitamin A, B, C, and E to help hydrate and nourish the skin, promoting healthy cell growth. With AOX® Technology, pH 5.5.

Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 30, UVA 4-Stars

One of the first sunscreens to achieve SPF 30 and the FDA recommended 4-Star rating, this daily moisturizer protects against both UVA & UVB damage to help slow down the signs of aging and help control hyperpigmentation and skin cancer development. Powerful protection in a lightweight formula perfect as a daily, all-over moisturizer and ideal under make-up. Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 7%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 3%, Oxybenzone 6%, pH 5.50.

Here’s what the company says about the kit

“It includes our most powerful products in one, convenient, easy-to-use routine. With just a couple of steps morning and night, you will start to see results immediately. Skin will look firmer, smoother, and more hydrated. Daily use will help accelerate the body’s natural skin renewal cycle and lasting results will appear quickly.”

The kit comes with detailed, clear, easy to follow instructions and we are told that

“The kit contains everything you need to cleanse, treat, hydrate and protect your skin daily.”

“The GO! Gorgeous Kit combines exfoliants, antioxidants, peptides and sun protection to reveal younger, firmer skin immediately and continued improvement with ongoing use for a couple of weeks.”

En Pointe C serum

Éclairci C Serum
1.0 fl. oz.

A daily dose of this renewal serum will result in a luminous, healthy complexion. Dr. Rodgers’ proprietary Bio-Energy Complex promotes collagen synthesis, reduces pigmentation, and helps eliminates the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Specifically formulated to address free radical damage to the skin caused by environmental stress.

Instructions: Apply to clean skin every AM. Follow with Bravo Daytime Hydration SPF 30

Caution: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep out of reach of children.

Ookisa Hair care products


About the System:

We rated OOKISA™ as the #1 hair renewal system available today, based on its balanced blend of high-quality, natural ingredients along with verified results and the tremendous value of an act of good faith by the company.
While OOKISA™ may be considered a newcomer to the hair renewal field, it stands as a comprehensive system of cutting-edge scientific ingredients blended with remarkable natural botanicals that stimulate thicker and fuller hair with less thinning, damage and breakage. It is fast becoming a top choice of celebrity stylists because of its two remarkable blends: Hana Senzai Energy Blend and Folliactiv™. Hana Senzai Energy Blend contains Eastern botanicals, such as Water Lily, White Peony Tea and Camellia Oil to moisturize, volumize and enhance radiance. Folliactiv™ is a unique blend of vitamins, amino acids and minerals that promotes a healthy scalp to produce thicker, fuller and healthier hair follicles and strands.
The OOKISA™ system consists of 3 formulas that feature these ingredients in a 2-month supply:
  • Fortifying Shampoo (6 fl. oz./180 ml)
  • Gently yet powerfully removes impurities
  • Bestows a fresh and lively bounce

Rene Furterer Paris Tonucia


Tonucia No Rinse Fortifying And Densifying Treatment

Rene Furterer

For weakened, tired, fine, and/or limp hair. Thanks to its active foam rich in Cimentrio and Wheat micro-protein, Tonucia No Rinse Fortifying and Densifying Treatment works to restructure and densify hair, for gains in thickness without a weighing down effect. Hair regains resistance and body, as well as long-lasting density. For optimal effectiveness, combine this Tonucia foam treatment.

More About this Product

René Furterer’s Tonucia treatments are a solution to restore strength and body in weakened, tired, or fine, limp hair. René Furterer Tonucia shampoo, mask, and foam act on both the hair roots and lengths to restore resistance, body, vitality and bounce, thanks to a combination of restructuring and densifying natural active ingredients. The stimulating essential oils of Orange and Lavender tone the scalp and strengthen hair at the root. The restructuring action of Cimentrio® (an association of natural plant extracts) ensures cohesion between hair scales where the intercellular cement is deficient. Wheat micro-protein provides repairing and coating action to add body to the hair. The result is radiant, soft, thicker hair, which is protected from external aggressions. Styling is made easier through improved bounciness and hold that carries throughout the day.

Bamboo Elements intensive lightening complex


Bamboo Aesthetics

Bamboo AestheticsFrom a leader in skincare technology comes a line that is redefining natural skincare, “better than natural”. After five years of extensive research and development, Bamboo Aesthetics, Inc, announces the launch of their four integrated product lines: Bamboo Elements (skincare), Bamboo Minerals (makeup), Bamboo Zen (body and hair care) and Bamboo Aromas (aromatherapy).
Bamboo is not only a “plant” it’s a way of life
Bamboo is such a beautiful and useful plant, not to mention an ecologically friendly material. Because of all the wonderful qualities of bamboo, it is one of our “signature ingredients” in our proprietary formulation and is found in the majority of our products. Bamboo science-based skincare products are formulated for women and men of all skin types and ages. “Our goal is to help people achieve optimal skin health, vitality and wellness while being responsibly eco-conscious,” says Co-founder and CEO Jenni Chau.
The Bamboo Difference
Bamboo’s formulations combine the rarest, purest and abundantly powerful concentrations of clinically proven actives. Built from scratch, they utilize the latest in scientific, “green” and natural ingredient technologies.
* Certified Organic Ingredients
* Biodynamic Ingredients: A systematic growing practices and gentle extraction techniques to preserve the life force, or living energy of the plants and herbs. Natural based formulas with advanced technologies for sustainable skin rejuvenation.
* Earth-Natural Ingredients: Earth-harvested plant ingredients and pure standardized botanicals including extracts, essential oils and purees.
* Lab-Natural Ingredients: Amino acids, vitamins and many others are copied on a molecular level in the lab to mirror nature, then put through a stringent screening process.
* Natural alternative preservatives to parabens.
About Bamboo Aesthetics, Inc.
Bamboo Aesthetics, Inc., is a truly pure skin care company that develops natural advanced beauty innovations with a clinical impression. Founded in 2003, Bamboo Aesthetics, Inc. is the recognized leader in changing the way the world uses bamboo as the new, cutting edge alternative to chemically-derived cosmetic ingredients. Under the guidance of the founders Jenni and Phil Chau, the company is committed to keeping professionals and their clients on the forefront of skincare innovation.
Bamboo Aesthetics products are distributed through med-spas, doctors offices, aestheticians, destination and other fine spas

Hydropetide Toner


HydroPeptide Anti-Wrinkle Brigtening Toner

HydroPeptide Anti-Wrinkle Brigtening Toner

Description

HydroPeptide Tone Anti-Wrinkle Brightening Toner, the first of the HydroPeptide Collection to undergo an extreme face lift. Tone addresses 5 out of 6 necessary components of the Simply Ageless Skin Key helping you achieve and maintain youthful, healthy skin.

Glow vibrantly with this hydrating toner that treats wrinkles, prevents collagen loss, reduces pore size, and fades age spots. Skin is left feeling extra clean, healthy, hydrated and totally radiant.

Enriched with youth-enhancing Peptides & wrinkle-relaxing Neuropeptides that provide the building blocks for healthy skin. Lactic Acid & Sugar Extracts exfoliate away impurities, revealing a fresh new complexion. Licorice, Mulberry, & Bearberry fade age spots & improve radiance. Soothing Eucalyptus, Chamomile, & Bilberry purify, reduce pore size, & fight acne-causing bacteria. Hyaluronate spheres, a naturally occurring moisturizer in the skin, perfectly hydrates & locks in moisture

Ingredients

Water, Lactic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Aminomethyl Propanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavendar) Oil, Tripeptide-1, Tripeptide-10 Citrulline, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Japanese Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Creatine, Geranium Maculatum Extract, Glucosamine Sulfate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice Root) Extract, Morus Alba (Mulberry) Leaf Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi (Bearberry) Leaf Extract, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Menthyl Lactate, Allantoin, Lecithin, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Methylisothiazolinone

Azure Azure on our Forum


Origins Brighter by Nature Skin Tone Correcting Serum

Origins Brighter by Nature™ Skin Tone Correcting Serum
Origins Brighter by Nature™ Skin Tone Correcting Serum

Price: $39.50

Helps create more even skin tone and zap the appearance of dark spots. 1-oz.

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Considering costly laser resurfacing or chemical peels? Nature has an effective, yet gentle alternative*. This clinically proven plant serum with Japanese Basil Leaf, Cucumber and naturally-derived Vitamin C helps create more even skin tone and zap the appearance of dark spots. Helps prevent future spotting. There’s no scarring or scorching skin. No downtime, no hefty price tag. It’s true brightness with no regrets.
How to use: Apply A.M. and P.M. after cleansing and before your moisturizer.
*Results not equal to medical procedures.