Spa at Home: Ole Henriksen Micro/Mini Peel System

I love going to the spa.  I love the calming atmosphere, the soothing music, even the enchanting smells.  I just love the whole experience.  Unfortunately, going to the spa can get a bit pricey, so I am always looking for ways to bring that experience home with products that I can use over and over again for the fraction of the cost of one spa treatment.

One such product I recently discovered is the Ole Henriksen Micro/Mini Peel System.  I haven’t been to the spa or an aesthetician for a facial since 2009.  I see my dermatologist regularly and I do my own facials, without extractions, at home. 

The Ole Henriksen peel is a spa-grade, three-step, indulgent process that I can complete in the comfort of my bathroom.

It gets the skin seriously smooth, as well as enhances and renews the skin texture, even after one treatment.

I purchased the introductory peel, which included:

·         Almond polish .5 oz / 15 g

·         Lemon strip .5 oz / 15 g

·         Chamomile comfort .5 oz / 15 g

·         Two natural complexion sponges

·         Measuring spoon

After putting my little guy to bed, I closed my bathroom door (a.k.a. my beauty sanctuary), put on some music and cracked open the peel.  The three step process is a little time consuming, but it allowed me time to finish a heap of September issues along the way.

To start, I cleansed my skin with Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple face wash.  I wanted to use something gentle and soothing before applying the more potent peel.

The first step was the Almond Polish, which includes almond paste, oat kernel flour, bamboo stem powder, honey and orange peel.  This step is intended to exfoliate away debris and dullness.

Using the spoon, I scooped out a small amount, transferred it to my wet hands and using light, upward, circular motions, massaged it into my damp skin for 1-2 minutes, then rinsed it off using warm water and the cool discs that expand to full size complexion sponges when wet.

 

The next step is the Lemon Strip, which firms, softens and refines pores with a blend of lactic and glycolic acid, orange and lemon extract, algae extract, licorice and Vitamin E. 

Using the spatula, I scooped out a small amount and smoothed it all over my face, neck and under the eye (careful not to get any in my actual eye or tear ducts). 

No need to massage this step in.  I left it on for 3 minutes before proceeding to the third step.  The Lemon Strip is not rinsed off.

The last step is the soothing Chamomile Comfort.  This final step moisturizes and calms the skin with chamomile flower extract, bisabolol, borage seed oil, evening primrose oil, azulene and jojoba seed oil.

It is applied directly over the Lemon Strip and left on for 15-20 minutes, then rinsed well using warm water and the complexion sponges.

After completing the Micro/Mini Peel, I massaged on a small bit of Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil, which is AH-MAY-ZING by the way, to moisturize.

My skin felt clean, nourished and decadently pampered, all without leaving the house.  This product is definitely a great way to spa at home.

The Ole Henriksen Micro/Mini Peel retails for $95 for the full size and $45 for the introductory size and is available at olehenriksen.com.  Used once a week, the full size peel yields eight to 10 treatments.

Kiki

Good to the Last Drop

Right now I am LOVING Philosophy’s Take a Deep Breath Oxygen Gel Cream Moisturizer.  In fact, I love it so much that I just painstakingly scraped the last bit from around the jar this morning and had to add this moisturizer to my Sephora shopping list immediately.

This oil-free cream is nothing short of skincare heaven.  When I use it, my skin practically hums, it’s so supple and glowing.  This stuff just sinks into your skin.  It’s very light weight and breathable and the scent is very subtle.  It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a revitalized, brightened complexion.

But it is also chock full of antioxidants for detoxifying the skin, smoothing signs of stress and combating environmental factors like sun, smog and pollution. 

I have yet to try a Philosophy product I didn’t like.  In fact, just about every Philosophy product I have tried has become a staple in my skincare arsenal and I have a feeling this moisturizer will join the ranks.

Philosophy Take a Deep Breath Gel Moisturizer ($34) is available at www.sephora.com. 

The Little Black Book by Boscia

Boscia has package the bestselling products from their black collection into a convenient travel set.  The products in their Little Black Book work together to mattify shine and minimize pores.  It is intended for all skin types.

The set includes:

·         0.5 oz Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel

·         1 oz Luminizing Black Mask

·         0.35 oz No Pores No Shine T-Zone Treatment

·         1.7 oz Detoxifying Black Cleanser

I have been using the Luminizing Black Mask for several months and this set provided me the opportunity to give some of the other products in the black collection a try. 

Unfortunately, I have been a little underwhelmed by the set as a whole regimen.  After a few weeks, only two of the products have wowed me – The Luminizing Black Mask and the Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel. 

As I said, I have been using the Luminizing Black Mask for several months and it is great at reviving a dull complexion, especially if I haven’t exfoliated in a while.  It is great for deep cleansing and unclogging pores.  It definitely absorbs all the dirt, oil and impurities that can get trapped deep in the skin.  Plus, I enjoy entertaining my son by making silly faces and distracting my husband during his serious conversations while I have it on.

It’s really easy to use.  You just slather it on, wait for it to dry and peel it off, along with dead skin, impurities and excess oil.  I usually splash my face a few times with cool water to remove any of the mask that is left behind. 

The Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel is another fave that I will probably buy in full size.  I love moisturizers that actually sink into my skin and make a difference in its overall appearance. The Black Hydration Gel does exactly that. 

  It is a cooling gel moisturizer that is ultra-lightweight.  The cooling sensation feels great on freshly cleansed skin and it is very effective for clarifying and brightening skin. 

I like to go without makeup as much as possible, especially in the summer and this moisturizer makes my skin look glowing without any subterfuge, just fresh and hydrated.  

A unique combination of artichoke leaf extract, charcoal, glycolic acid, and Vitamin C serve to improve elasticity, absorb excess oil and impurities, clarify skin and brighten skin tone.

The Detoxifying Black Cleanser is a little “meh” in my opinion.  It is nothing special from other cleansers I have used, unless I use it with my Clarisonic brush.  It is advertised as a warming gel cleanser that deeply cleanses and detoxifies the complexion.  The warming action actually happens in your hands as you lather it, not on your skin.

It is formulated to open and de-clog pores by rinsing away surface debris, impurities, and excess oil. It is also purported to refine skin texture, brighten skin clarity, and minimize the look of pores over time.

It dispenses black but lathers white.  It is a decent cleanser, but cannot compete with my other regular cleansers.

As I simply never use mattifying or pore shrinking products, I only just used the No Pores No Shine T-Zone Treatment for this review.  It is intended to reduce the appearance of pores and mattify oil.  It is great for those with oily complexions who need all day oil control and it can be worn under or over makeup.

It also instantly tightens pores and treats blackheads while helping both become less visible over time.

It goes on really smooth and provides a silky, matte finish. 

Overall, the only products that really enhanced my skincare regimen were the Luminizing Black Mask and the Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel.  

To try the Little Black Book ($48) for yourself, visit boscia.com.

Boscia is one of the world's first preservative-free, botanically-based skincare lines and as such, used NO Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Synthetic Dyes, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, GMOs or Triclosan.

Knowing When to Toss Your Makeup

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Do you have mascara that is all dried out?  Foundation that has changed color?  Funky smelling lipstick?

Well, it may be time to do a makeup purge.  

We all have that favorite lip color or eye pencil that we will use until there is barely any left.  But believe it or not, makeup does have an expiration date and knowing when to toss your products will help guard your skin from breakouts and your health from certain bacterial infections.

Here is a purge schedule on when products must go:

Mascara – the biggest breeder of germs and bacteria, mascara should be thrown out every two to three months, sooner if it begins to smell bad or has dried out.  I always follow this one to a tee.

Liquid Foundation – Liquid foundations should be tossed every 6 to 12 months.  If you notice a change in color, smell or consistency, get rid of it or risk skin breakouts and rashes.  Powder foundations can last a little longer, up to two years after opening.

Concealer – liquid concealer should be tossed after one year, powder or stick concealers up to two years.

Face Powder, Powder Blushes, Powder Highlighters and Bronzers – These items can last up to two years.

Eye Shadow – This is one that I admit I do not follow.  I love eye shadows and I like the more expensive brands, so tossing them every two years is just not happening, 5 to 6, maybe.  Some experts even say every three months because of the risk of eye infections caused by bacteria.  Cream eye shadows tend to grow bacteria quicker than powder formulas.

Eyeliner – Again, because of the closeness to the mucous membrane of the eye and the risk of eye infection, these should be tossed every three months.  Pencils will last a bit longer than liquid with regular sharpening, but if white film starts to develop on the tip they’re done for.…I buy Wet N Wild or Avon Glimmersticks eye liner so I don’t feel bad tossing these, seeing as how I never spend over $3 for my eye liners.

Lipstick and Lip Gloss – Lippie lovers can rejoice!  The risk of these products spoiling (or growing bacteria) is low since they are not water based. But, repeated exposure to the mouth area means that they should be replaced after one year or sooner if you’ve been sick.  Look out for change in smell, texture and consistency as well.

Nail Polish – nail lacquers will not go bad from bacteria, but with age they will dry out and become thick and clumpy.  If after you shake up the formula and it remains separated, it’s time to toss it!

Makeup Tools – Brushes can be quite expensive, especially high quality ones, so wanting to hold on to them for as long as possible is understandable.  With proper cleaning and storage, quality brushes can last for several years.  But if you notice a lot of fraying or shedding it may be time to shop for a new set.  

More Tips:

Bacteria are the top reason to toss makeup immediately.  If you get an eye infection or a cold sore or any other bacterial infection near your eyes or mouth, throw out all makeup that came in contact with the area and start fresh once the infection has cleared up.

Keep makeup in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity, which is breeding grounds for bacteria and can cause changes in the formula more rapidly.

To help me remember when to get rid of a makeup product, I write the date I bought the item on a label and stick it to the product.  This makes it easier to determine if something has gotten old and needs to be tossed.

I do not advise sharing makeup with anyone.  

As a personal rule, anything that I put directly from the container onto my face, I do not share or I clean all applicators and the top surface of the product with skin-friendly antibacterial wipes before and after using on someone else.

Just Say Yes: Yes to Grapefruit Correct + Repair Brightening Facial Towelettes

It’s been a little while since I’ve done a post, but real life has an inconvenient way of sidetracking a person.  Anyway, I’m back now to tell you all about my latest skincare love, Yes to Grapefruit Correct + Repair Brightening Facial Towelettes.

Grapefruit is rich in Vitamin C and Lycopene, which naturally help to even skin tone and enhance luminosity, promoting healthier, smoother and softer looking skin.

I’ve been using these pre-moistened wipes whenever I’m too tired to go through the bazillion steps of my night time beauty routine, which in this past week has been almost every night.  

I simply swipe these all over my face and neck before bed.  I even leave off  moisturizer or serum and let the fruit acids in the cloths sink into my skin.  My complexion has been really brightening up with regular use of these cloths.

I also use them for makeup removal and after working out.

The Yes to Grapefruit Correct + Repair Brightening Facial Towelettes are 98 percent natural and made with compostable, natural cloth.  They are also Paraben-Free and free of petroleum.

They retail for around $5.99 and can be found at Target, Ulta and Drugstore.com.

Lightening Up My Skincare Routine with Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizer

Hot and humid weather means perspiration...perspiration means oily skin and clogged pores...clogged pores mean acne, a combination I am actively trying to avoid this summer.  Blazing temperatures call for putting away thick, creamy moisturizers in favor of lightweight, gel moisturizers, especially us ladies with normal to oily skin.

My current favorite lightweight moisturizer is Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizer.  This moisturizer has seriously changed my summer skincare routine.  I am not big on a lot of products on my face in the summer.  I want something full of skin goodies, but lightweight enough to not have me looking a greasy mess by lunch.  This moisturizer is it!

It's for all skin types, but is specially formulated for normal to oily and acne prone skin.  In fact, it is perfect for those of you on an acne treatment program as it provides relief for the dryness that accompanies most acne products.

The Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizer is filled with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and moisture to the skin, azulene and Aloe Vera to soothe skin and antioxidants Vitamins A and E to feed skin essential nutrients.

I've been using it for several weeks and I am loving how it virtually sinks into the skin, absorbing fast and disappearing quickly.  No oily residue or shine, just perfectly dewy skin.

The only con is the smell.  It's not the best.  I liken it to Blue Magic hair grease or something, but it is bearable.  Once it dries down the scent disappears.

Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizer ($42 for 1.7 oz.) is available at www.sephora.com.

Kiki

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub: Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Sugar Scrub

Summer months provide the perfect opportunity to shed the heavy layers of clothing we wore all winter long and reveal the bare skin beneath.  After all those months hidden beneath sweaters, winter coats and boots, the skin we bare can be quite dry, scaly, bumpy and all together lackluster.

To prepare my skin for short shorts and strappy sundresses weather, I step up my body exfoliation regimen to twice or even three times a week, quickly whisking away rough, dull skin leftover from harsh winter weather and constricting winter clothing.

I usually whip up a quick body scrub in my kitchen using brown and white sugar, Sweet Almond or Grapeseed oil and several essential oils.  When I don’t have the time or the ingredients handy, my second favorite scrub is the Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Sugar Scrub. 

Currently in the rotation are:

Vanilla Verbena (Stress Relief) – a lightly soothing scent that aids in relaxation, great after a long day

Lemon Zest (Energy) – ginseng and lemon essential oils combine for a quick pick me up in a jar

Jasmine Vanilla (Sensual) – By far my favorite because it’s so sexy…headily fragranced with the sensual jasmine flower and calming vanilla

 

 

 

 

 

I first started using the Bath and Body Works scrubs several years ago and I haven’t found a scrub that comes close to how incredibly soft my skin feels after just one use of the Aromatherapy scrubs. 

I don’t even get body exfoliation treatments at the spa anymore because I can achieve the same affect at home, in the privacy of my bathroom, for a fraction of the cost.

To use, I step into the shower (with the water off), scoop out a handful of the scrub, and using circular motions, I rub it in from neck to toes and everywhere in between  – concentrating on the typical rough spots (elbows, knees, heels, etc.).  I also spend a little extra time on my décolleté, booty and the backs of my thighs and arms.

Once everything is covered in sugar and essential oils and buffed to a shine, I turn on the shower and rinse off the excess granules of sugar.  The skin softening essential oils cling to the skin even after washing, leaving behind a subtle sheen that I enhance by smoothing on a light body oil to seal in the moisture.

Your entire body will super soft and delectably smooth after just one use.  Every scrub is infused with exfoliating sugar and a special moisturizing blend of Sunflower, Safflower, Sweet Almond and Jojoba Oils and fragranced with essential oils and other natural fragrances. 

Right now, select scrubs are half off in stores during the Bath and Body Works Semi-Annual Sale, otherwise they retail for $16 each for 13 oz.  Available at Bath and Body Works stores and at www.bathandbodyworks.com.