Occasionally I like to take a brand that’s new to me and test a few of the top products in the line. This month I just had to try a brand that has created a bit of a buzz in the skin care industry lately – Avene. This French brand specializes in caring for sensitive skin and is based on healing thermal spring water. I decided to give the three top Avene products a whirl and see how they perform.

My first product is Redness Relief Soothing Cream SPF 25. While I don’t usually experience irritation from products, I do often suffer from redness and have a fair number of visible capillaries on and around my nose. I have wondered if I have rosacea although I’ve never been diagnosed. When it comes to redness, there are three important steps to take. The first step is to treat. The second is to camouflage. The third is to protect the skin and prevent further redness. The Redness Relief Soothing Cream tackles all three steps. It’s a light cream that calms redness while also strengthening blood vessels to make them less visible. The cream is tinted green to neutralize the appearance of redness. Lastly, the cream contains SPF to prevent future redness and blood vessel damage caused by the sun. I found this cream to be very effective at calming my skin. While my capillaries are still visible, they are less apparent and my fare-ups are under control. I do find the green color to be a bit noticeable if I don’t blend well so be sure to really rub it in around the nose and under the chin. If you want long-term results, continue to apply daily and expect to start seeing an improvement in about 30 days.

My second product is Eluage Cream. I can’t tell you how many women I talk to who have to be very careful when it comes to products with active ingredients. Sensitive skin seems to be an epidemic. Eluage Cream was designed to provide a superior anti-aging solution for sensitive skin. It’s very soothing and hydrating while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. I had great results with this cream and would definitely recommend it for sensitive types, particularly those that are more on the dry side. I did find it to be a tad heavy for oily skin but it helps to avoid the T-zone.

The last product I’ll review is the Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream. It’s a super healing cream for all kinds of minor skin ailments like scrapes, cuts and bug bites. I love how the cream feels on my skin. It’s very gentle and moisturizing and I do find that my skin heals faster and appears healthier. You can bet I’ll be packing this one in my travel bag.

I am always happy to be the guinea pig when it comes to new products on the market and Avene was a real pleasure to test. Avene carries many other products in addition to the three I have reviewed so stay tuned for more reviews and feedback.

The other night I was watching Confessions of a Shopoholic and it made me sit back and do some finance soul searching of my own. I realized I spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on beauty products. I don't buy $400 shoes; but I have bought some pretty darn expensive skin creams. So today I thought I'd find some of my favorite all time products that don't cost an arm and a leg and share them with all of you.

I don't even have to ponder my first choice for a fabulous yet inexpensive facial cleanser because I use it all the time and I know it's a great value. It's Gly Derm Gentle Cleanser. The glycolic acid in it will work well for dry sun damaged skin as well as oily blemished skin. So basically it may be used on any skin type. I looked at the customer ratings on SkinStore.com and Gly Derm Gentle Cleanser literally had 18 people who had rated it with the maximum of 5 stars. And it's only 18 bucks!

My pic for a great toner at a great price would have to be H2O Plus Marine Toner. I believe its about 16 bucks.

For an eye product I wanted to choose a multi-tasker because using one product is cheaper than using three. So I found one to work well on dark circles, puffiness and fine lines and wrinkles. I wanted a serum or gel so that it absorbs quickly and gives the eyes an instant lift. I chose Dermelect Line Correction Eye Gel. It retails for under 35 dollars.

For hydration I wanted another multi-tasker. I wanted it to hydrate brilliantly, incorporate effective ingredients that promote cellular turnover and be beneficial for all types of skin including sensitive. And I wanted it to also have sun protection. I went with Aveeno Positively Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF30. Again, reduced products equates to a bigger savings. And this one is priced ridiculously right at 23 dollars at SkinStore.com. As a matter of fact, Aveeno products are priced right throughout the whole line and work incredibly well.

I live at the beach and I'm always a wreck when I see Mom's and Dad's not properly safeguarding their babies from getting sunburned and other potentially ill effects that are harmful from the sun's powerful rays. I found this article so informative that I found on BabyCenter.com that I wanted to share it with all of you. It was a post contributed by PureandFree (a BabyCenter.com's member). It's a guide to keeping baby safe from the harmful effects of the sun. It's short, easy to read, written well and (in my opinion) will save a lot of children from harm if parents use it. The article is pasted below; but you should also take a look at the BabyCenterCommunity page I found it on. You will find oodles of good information on this very cool mommy and mommy-to-be website. I've also inserted the link to the guide directly below.

Neutrogena_Baby-Suncare-1-Sheet.pdf

You all know how I’ve been writing often about detoxifying our body and our skin. However, it seems that usually my focus has been on how clear and vibrant we can get our facial skin. And when I’ve referred to detoxifying our bodies I’m usually referring to internal health with focus on toxic elimination and an increased energy level. That’s great and I still promote whole -heartedly both of those objectives, however, I’ve recently found an incredible body detoxification product that is literally for the condition of our skin on the whole body.

MD Skincare has formulated Detox Duo which is for the revitalization and renewal of our skin on the rest of our body. The part we tend to forget to care for. MD Skincare Detox Duo detoxifies and beautifies the skin by reversing the damage that has occurred from environmental stressors such as pollutants and free radical damage.

In addition this treatment increases circulation, promotes lymphatic drainage, and firms and softens the skin to give it a silky radiant glow.

This is a truly delightful detox!

It seems that no matter how well we take care of our skin we still have times when our skin is out of balance. Sometimes it’s dry patches, sometimes its blemishes and sometimes its excess oil. And of the three the latter can be one of the most bothersome.

Luckily there are products to alleviate excess oil. Some of the best oil mattifyers are listed below:

Boscia Lavender Blotting Linens: These easy to use sheets are packaged to fit well in your purse and may be used on any areas of the face where oil is breaking through. The lavender infused in the sheets balance and calms the skin.

Murad Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15: This multi-tasker reduces shine on contact as well as prevents excess oil build up. It’s fragrance and paraben free and has a sunscreen factor of SPF 15.

Exuviance Matte Perfection: This light gel absorbs excess oil and minimizes the appearance of large pores. You’re left with an instant matte finish and it makes for an excellent makeup primer.

Try any of these and you will shine! But it won’t be from extra oil on your face!!

Everyone is always asking me my opinion on what I consider the best facial treatment masks on the market. My answer usually lies within my favorite masks for sun damaged dry and aging skin. What I typically forget are those of you who want a mask for oily skin and/or blemishes.

I started doing my research for those of you with these indications and came up with a mask I too love. I use it for pore cleansing and minimizing and an effective deep cleanse.

However, those of you with oily skin will think this mask is the alpha and the omega. I have never read so many rave reviews for a product before in my life. Many love it for its efficacy in overnight spot treatment. You really should try it no matter what your skin type. We all get a blemish every now and then; and as I said the cleanse is so purifying you will be sold from here on out. In fact, one of the customer ratings (title's) I read said, “I can see why this is out of stock!!!”  By the way, it’s back in stock now at SkinStore.com. Here are some other titles of reviews that I found on SkinStore.com just to give you an idea about how other users feel about it.

“O Man!”

“Excellent spot treatment”

"Greattt!”

“love it love it love it”

“Amazing”

So anyway I’m sure you’re getting the picture. The Astara Blue Flame Purification Mask is all you need to purify your skin. Two words: It’s works!!!

So today we get to explore day two of our Mojo Makeover. Number one is so simple…

1. Polish your toes, your skin and your lips. Paint your toes red! Always the best color for toenails in my opinion. When I get a professional pedicure I go with a French pedicure (pink and white) but when I do it myself I always go with red. And I’m talkin’ plain ole Ferrari or fire engine red. No other colors tinted into it. Looks fab with a tanned foot which we’ll chat about in #2. Polish your skin with June Jacobs Mandarin Polishing Beads. This will not only make your face and body radiant; it too will help with #2 on our list. And for gorgeous lips…I would keep it neutral. Plump em but keep the color natural. This mojo makeover is summer oriented so staying as natural as possible is key to looking terrific. Take a look at Colorescience Lip Polish Wand in either It’s Over or Softer Shade of Pale. Both perfect to create this au so naturel sexy summer look!
2. So this is my favorite part of my mojo makeovers. Self Tanning! Actually let me rephrase that. Self tanning with firming properties. I love, love, love Murad Firming Bronzer spf 15. I love my color and I love how my skin just seems to get more and more firm as the days go by. I actually like my thighs for the first time in a very long time. Additionally, I had forgotten how much better I look with some color.
3. Next, buy yourself a new sundress and slinky pair of sandals. I’m all about Ross, TJ Maxx, Target, Marshalls, and Nordstrom Rack. Cute, fashionable and affordable! I chose an orange and brown floral ankle length halter dress and a sassy little pair of orange patent leather sandals. The two were less than 50 bucks!
4. How are ya likin’ the new sexier you? But you’re not quite done yet. Just one more tiny thing to do to go out and conquer the world with your new attitude. Splash or spray on a really clean and exotic fragrance. Check out H2O Plus Mariel Eau de Parfum. It’s vibrant and beautiful and perfect for day or evening.

Feels pretty good to get your mojo back…doesn’t it?

Want your Mojo back? It’s so easy and so quick! Make it Happen with an easy Makeover! Here’s how to get it started:

1. If your hair is dull or you’ve been sporting the same hairstyle and cut since the last millennium it’s time to change that. Get a new haircut and get highlights or lowlights or a new color all together. If you don’t want that drastic a change then go to the beauty supply and ask for their best treatment mask. I get mine online and do them weekly. Makes my hair so soft, shiny and silky. My favorite is Klorane Intense Nutrition Repair Mask with Mango Butter because I have dry and somewhat damaged hair. However, no one would ever think I do because this product works so well. Additionally, it’s priced very well.
2. Next if you wear contact lenses consider getting colored or tinted ones. They make any eye color look brilliant. Many are made to appear very natural. If that doesn’t sound like something you want to do, well here’s plan B (as in Blinc). You can still have gorgeous eyes with a slight make-up change. Choose Blinc Kiss Me Mascara for long beautiful lashes that match the color of your eyes. Your eyes will pop and sparkle. I wear the blue with an aquamarine colored lens. Unbelievable combo! More compliments on my eyes than I’ve ever had before.
3. Consider some figure flattering undergarments. I love Victoria’s Secret Shapewear collection. Top it off with a push up bra!
4. Whiten your teeth and glamorize your lips. Even if you were to only choose one of these make-over options; this is probably the one to do. Nothing makes your face brighter than a gorgeous smile. For the most professional results from home use Dr. Michelle Copeland’s Dental Whitener Kit and her Sensational Lips Duo. I can’t think of a better name for this product, because it definitely makes your smile sensational!

So there you have your first four homework assignments. Tomorrow’s entry will be the last four. You are just 24 hours away from a brand new sexy you! Well I guess that’s if you don’t mind paying for overnight shipping if you shop online. I know I always do. It’s so worth it to me on so many (beauty) levels. One, I hate waiting for anything, two, it (shopping online) still ends up being cheaper than going to the mall and three, a lot of these professional products aren’t sold in stores. And believe me, I’ve checked that out many a time!

As I was pondering my recent series on men I got to thinking I never linked you up to a couple of articles that are perfect for boning up on skincare for men as well as the perfect shave. The whole reason I chose to write about products for men in the first place was because I had recently read these two articles on SkinCare-News.com. It is a web magazine that is written so well and has beaucoup information on skin and beauty. I read it daily. Other women jokingly refer to Cosmo as their bible; well this beauty web mag is mine!

So allow me to share with you the two articles I found so helpful when it comes to grooming for men. Even though I’ve been a skincare professional for years, I’m still not a guy so I don’t have the experience to really consult well on directions and info for men. I do fine when it comes to suggesting product and even applying product, but as far as teaching the perfect shave, well that’s just not going to happen (at least not till I grow a beard and let’s just pray that doesn’t happen either!). Hair removal for the a few stray hairs on the chin and bikini line I can do. Hair removal for the beard I can not. This is an excellent resource for any skincare and grooming questions you may have. So check out SkinCare-News for all your educational needs for beauty, grooming, and many other related categories as well. Every time I read this web magazine I feel so much more informed and motivated to learn more about this industry. Additionally, it’s a fabulous resource for tons of fresh information on acne, anti-aging, cosmetics and many other beauty treatments.

Here are the two articles related to men (I was referring to above):

Guide to Men’s Skincare

10 Steps to a Perfect Shave for Him
 
Now you guys know the products to buy and the knowledge you need to use them. Go for it Mr. GQ Man!
           

This is it boys. Better take note! You too women! Especially if you want to treat your man to great gifts that makes you as happy as he will be! The previous entry hit body and hands, grooming tools and a fabulous eye cream. So today it’s all about the great shave, incredible hair, and fragrance. Trust me…you’ll want to take a look at these kits. Nothing compliments a well groomed man with incredible skin better than a smooth, close shave and a gorgeous head of hair. Well, wait a minute. One that smells great is really close! So check these kits out!

When it comes to hair you guys tell me you like to keep it cool, stimulate the scalp and promote and maintain hair growth. Enter Billy Jealousy Hair Kit. Comes with a brilliant peppermint shampoo that is fortified with special ingredients to prevent hair loss. It also contains a conditioner that strengthens, revitalizes and hydrates for an incredible head of gorgeous hair.

Next I’m gonna recommend a kit for the world’s most ultimate shave. No more supermarket shopping when it comes to shaving! You have got to try Grooming Lounge shave products. To introduce you to it I’m going to suggest the travel sized kit. It comes with a facial wash, shave oil, shaving cream and an aftershave that even those with the most sensitive skin can use. Grooming Lounge The Greatest Shave Ever Kit is just that. The greatest shave ever! And it’s a steal at about 25 bucks.

For a gift of fragrance, treat yourself to one of the best smelling colognes I’ve ever had the pleasure to, well you know…savor! When I smelled it the first time, I practically fell in love with the man sporting it! Check out the handsomely packaged cologne and body and hair wash kit called Jack Black Signature Blue Liquid Magnetism Gift Set.

Hey gorgeous fellas...did I hook you up or what?? 

Hi guys. Well I promised you I would list some great kits for a great shave, hand and body treatments, fragrance and grooming tools. There are a number I will want to show you so there will be a second entry dedicated to these categories in the next entry.
 
For a fabulous set for body and hand treatments check out Jack Black Clean and Cool Body Basics. Comes with an all over wash (may be used on face, body and hair). A great all in one product. It also comes with a highly effective industrial strength hand healing cream, a large sized cool moisturizing body lotion, and a highly rated product known as Pit-Boss Antiperspirant and Deodorant.

For the ultimate in grooming tools you’ve got to go with Tweezerman! The professional quality kit comes with the famous Tweezerman tweezerette, safety facial scissors, a pocket nail file and deluxe stainless steel nail clippers all packaged in a sturdy case.

Lastly I’ve got to tell you about one of my favorite products for men. The number one type of question I get from men revolves around the eyes. Here are some examples: What can I do about my dark circles? What product can I buy to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes? I feel like the area around my eyes needs moisturizing but I don’t want the rest of my face to feel greasy. I want some sunscreen around my eyes but I have sensitive skin.
Well I can share with you an eye product that will address every single one of those questions and concerns. Take a look at Korres Chestnut and Ruscus Eye Cream. This incredible eye cream is formulated with the best of the best ingredients and is considered a natural product due to its concentration of quality botanicals while keeping harsh chemicals to a bare minimum.

Don't forget to read the next entry for many more great products and gifts for guys!

Today I thought it would be a good idea to give you guys a little guidance on what products to choose specific to your individual needs. I will give you plenty of top notch products for head to toe grooming. Additionally, I’m trying to hook you up not only with great products that will give you fabulous results but I’m going to lean towards kits as they make great gifts for you ladies to buy for your man and for you guys who need a little extra hand holding on regimens and steps. Additionally, kits are usually sold at a special value price which is more affordable and they are usually easier to use. They take the guess work out of how to use such as order of use and additionally you’re getting the benefits of all the individual products working synergistically. Kits are a great way to be introduced into the world of beauty, grooming and an over all sense of well being.

The best all around kit goes to Menscience Travel Kit hands down! In this kit comes a face wash, an incredible face lotion (read the reviews if you get a chance), two products for your shaving needs, deodorant, lip balm with sunscreen, an incredible daily shampoo, in a nice travel bag complete with ear plugs, and sleep mask. Guys this is the one you should try and ladies this is the gift you need to get him. Either way, he will love his new GQ look.
My favorite kit for face only is Anthony Logistics The Face Kit. Comes with three products which translate into keeping it simple which means more compliance which leads to effective results. Comes with a glycolic face wash for a smoother more clarified skin, a bi-weekly clay mask to absorb excess oil, and purge impurities and clean out those pores, and a multi purpose facial moisturizer that has anti-aging properties.

Next time we’ll delve into shaving, hands and body, fragrance and grooming tools. Again I’ll be sharing with you the best kits for each of these categories.

See ya later handsome!

Men are Babies! Just kidding! They’re just more practical when it comes to beauty! Let’s explore skincare and beauty products for men!

We will explore some great products for you in the following blog entries. I will do my very best to take all of your needs and wants you have shared with me previously to make it specific to your gender. I will also be exploring shaving needs, hair care, body products and even treatments that will potentiate your skincare desires with as little discomfort as possible. Another little note I want to share with you is even though I will probably discuss products specifically formulated for men, there are indeed many brands that are not gender specific and work brilliantly as well. One of my favorite brands for both genders would most likely be Murad products!

Oftentimes we worry about choosing a treatment mask designed specifically for our skin type. Well this makes sense, obviously, but it’s been my experience that in general anyone (i.e.: dry, oily, blemished, discolored, etc. skin types) can usually use masks indicated for a different skin type other than their own. I have dry skin but it doesn’t mean I always have to use hydrating masks. I too can use a clarifying mask (often a favorite choice for someone with oily skin) but I would just use less frequently. For instance, I may only use a clay mask once or twice a month; where as someone with oily skin may use 2 to 4 times per week. It’s good for me to deep clean like that on occasion. Even though my skin is dry; I still need an ultra deep cleanse to extract pollutants from my pores from time to time. And even if it’s a tad drying my skin will know and will potentially produce a little oil to compensate which may be more beneficial (for my dry skin) than had I not done it.

Conversely, someone with oily skin and blemishes may use hydrating masks. Again, use would typically be less frequently. However, just as my dry skin benefits from a clarifying clay mask; theirs could potentially benefit from a hydrating mask. It is often said in this business (from many skin care professionals and practitioners) that oily skinned people indeed benefit from hydration. Instead of being entirely focused on constantly removing every drop of sebum produced, try to stay balanced and hydrate. A skin that is used to being a little hyperactive when it comes to oil production will really kick into gear when it gets dried out from product and will actually over compensate producing even more oil.

Having said all of this, you should always use products as directed by your physician and as directed by manufacturer as there are always exceptions to every rule and many other variables (such as sensitivities, etc.). A treatment regimen developed by your dermatologist should be used as he or she has instructed as they know your history as well as know the pharmacodynamics of the ingredients as well as the way the products work in connection with others within the regimen.

Here's a list of some of my favorite masks:

Anti-Aging:
Jan Marini Cesta Facial Mask

Oily:
Sothy’s Absorbant Mask

Combination:
H2O Plus Sea Mineral Mud Mask

Acneic:
DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask

Dull:
Alchemie Forever Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask

Dry:
Jurlique Moisture Replenishing Mask

More Favorites:

Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Celazome Enzyme Exfoliating Masque

Juara Skincare Avocado Banana Moisture Mask

Today I had a question in my forums about why serums are special and why they are different from creams. I would imagine all of us would like to know if they’re worth adding to our daily regimen.

My best understanding of skincare treatment serum is basically this:
Serums today are usually formulated with concentrated ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and even high tech science ingredients like Marine DNA and tissue nutrients just to name a few. What makes serums different today as opposed to skincare in the past is their delivery system. These potent ingredients can’t do a thing for treatment and repair if they just sit on top of the skin. Today’s better brands have the science to get the little goodies delivered well into the skin to do their individualized specific job. When you add a good serum to your daily regimen you are essentially treating whatever your skin issue is with a target based, indication focused product. Additionally you may be potentiating the work of the regimen you already use. For instance, your day cream may already contain anti-aging ingredients (if that is your focus, but also applies to whatever your specific regimen needs are) but by applying the thinner more concentrated serum underneath your cream you’re getting a boost (sometimes exponentially in my experience) in treatment action. Absorbability is key. If it can’t get in, it can’t work. Having said that there are plenty of times when product on the surface makes sense. You wouldn’t need a scrub to go any deeper (in general) than the scaly superficial layer because you’re basically trying to exfoliate dead skin cells. But when it comes to nutrition for your skin it needs to get into do its work. By the way, for added efficacy use serums on clean and exfoliated skin. However, take sensitivity into consideration as well as use as directed by manufacturer.

So as you can see, my vote goes to the use of serums!