summer beauty: defy sun-damaged skin

the summer season is just around the corner, beauties! along with longer, brighter days also comes what we all dread ~ sun damage! so if you're looking forward to getting out and soaking up the sun, it's that much more important to make sure that you're taking care of your skin before you do any unintended harm...

i'm sure you're well aware that the more time you spend in the sun the more likely you're going to end up with damage; and this won't always show up right away {not everyone burns, after all}, but when it does, it reveals itself in the form of uneven skin tone, spots, hyperpigmentation and unwanted blemishes. thankfully, there are fabulous products to repair the damage, bring back the radiance and give skin a more even tone. here are some suggestions that can be a great help...

MD Complete Dark Spot Remover ~ {pictured, at top} this beauty serum is formulated to help fade unwanted dark spots, freckles and sun damage; evens and brightens overall skin tone giving skin a more youthful and healthy-looking complexion. mdcompleteskincare.com

Exuviance OptiLight Tone Corrector ~ a potent targeted skin tone corrector that aids in diminishing the look of dark spots; active ingredients include botanicals to treat and prevent uneven tone. NeoGlucosamine® gently exfoliates to break up pigment clusters, while retinol and vitamin C help reduce the intensity of existing spots. exuviance.com

Lumixyl Brightening System ~  this revolutionary multi-faceted approach promises to effectively treat hyperpigmentation without irritation or other side effects associated with prescription hydroquinone or retinoids; the 8 week program includes the Active-Prep Cleanser, Topical Brightening Creme, GlycoPeel 20 Rapid Exfoliating Lotion, and MoistureLock Sunscreen spf 30, which work synergistically to target existing melasma and to prevent its recurrence. lovelyskin.com

elure Advanced Brightening Lotion ~ uses mushroom-derived Melanozyme™ which is touted to safely and effectively brighten, soften, and retexturize skin. Melanozyme™ breaks down existing discoloration, without the irritation and side effects of harsh prescription drugs, working to dissolve existing pigment in as little as 4 weeks. elureskin.com

remember, while these are more than likely to give you what you're looking for, prevention is most important, so wear sunscreen daily!

product info and images courtesy of respected brand's PR

beauty review: EYES by ToGoSpa {formerly Eyedews}

EYES by ToGoSpa {formerly known as Eyedews} have been pampering my eyes for the past couple of weeks and what treat they are! these at-home, spa-inspired gel treatment pads work by stimulating circulation and production of new, youthful skin cells. 

the pads, once applied, are activated by the body's temperature and are packed with a fabulous combination of natural, high-density marine collagen, enzymes, amino acids, natural marine minerals, trace elements, proteins and vitamins. all of these ingredients have worked quite well together, and leave my eyes looking more awake and youthful ~ love! 

other benefits i've noticed: the skin around my eyes look more relaxed, calm and moisturized; they also de-puff, reduce irritation, and leave my skin well-hydrated, so the appearance of dryness surrounding my eyes has been reduced {keeping fine lines away!}...

you'll also be happy to know that EYES can be used anytime and anywhere. they're a bit slippery coming out of the package, but they stay put once they've been applied. 

what else can i say about these other than you should definitely give them a try! they come in 3 "flavors": Soothe {ice water}, Lift {green tea} and Firm {pomegranate; not pictured}…

visit togospa.com for more info! 

product featured sent to me for review consideration; pics taken by me :)

9 skin care products i'm currently loving...

with the start of a new season, it's quite understandable {and actually recommended!} to start a new routine for your skin ~ a seasonal resolution of sorts. the following list includes some of the {many} products i've been using over that past several months for this special round-up. each has wowed me in one way or another. they've proven to be amazing for getting and keeping skin looking fabulous...this season and beyond!

Zelens Z Recovery Intensive Repair Balm + PHA Bio Peel Resurfacing Pads

Dr. Marko Lens has developed a line of high-tech-meets-nature products through his Zelens line, but i have to give special love to the Resurfacing Pads and Repair Balm. the pre-soaked pads contain effective alpha and beta hydroxy acids, as well as more gentle polyhydroxy acids to exfoliate and reveal  a more refreshed, bright tone; to keep skin hydrated and treat any irritation that may occur, Repair Balm is so luxurious and soothing. the silky texture feels delicious on skin and is a fabulous treat at the end of the day.

Kiehl's Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream SPF 30

formulated with copper PCA and calcium PCA, this highly effective moisturizer/sunscreen has helped give my skin a boost. not only does it offer sun protection, but the anti-aging ingredients also aided in smoothing the texture of my skin.

January Labs "Glow and Go" Power Peel Exfoliant
i started using this last fall, and with cinnamon as its star ingredient, it was a perfect fit. i typically use this mask a couple of times a month and it's such a treat, especially when i don't have a lot of time. after 15 minutes, my skin looks and feels refreshed and, yes, glowing.

Algenist Regenerative Anti-Aging Ultra Rich Cream

highly moisturizing, this rich cream is perfect for dry, aging skin. alguronic acid combined with shea butter and vitamin C really delivers a moisture boost. this formula is a bit too rich for my skin, but i found a tiny amount worked well for me when mixed in with another moisturizer when i felt my skin was parched. i use the Ultra Rich Cream in full force on my neck, decollate and hands.

Kate Somerville Exfolikate + RetAsphere 2in1 Retinol Night Cream

the legendary ExfoliKate is a holy-grail favorite of mine and will always be on my must-use list! to get the best looking skin all i can say is you need this. another fabulous product from the skin guru is  RetAsphere ~ it's simply A-mazing! i love the creamy textured night treatment for its ability to moisturize, keep fine lines at bay and even out my skin tone, all with just a thin layer used nightly.

Derma E Evenly Radiant Serum

this treatment is a natural-product lovers' dream! ideal for oily or blemish-prone skin {or as a treatment underneath your favorite moisturizer}, this rich in antioxidants, green tea-infused, gel-textured serum hydrates, fights signs of aging and brightens skin over time with daily use.

Murad Oil-Free Broad Spectrum SPF 30

like ExfoliKate, this sunscreen is a must-have favorite. i highly recommend it because it contains antioxidant-rich pomegranate {attacks free radicals to repair existing sun damage and slow the signs of aging}, is oil-free {no breakouts here}, and leaves my skin looking great all day {the formula dries to a matte finish}. oh, and it smells good, too!



with regular use, all of these goodies will do your skin a world of good.
have favorites of your own? share in the comments!

products featured sent to me for review consideration; pics taken by me :)

Tips to Soothe Sunburned Skin

this week the temperatures have been and will be in the 80s which made think of all the hot days ahead...ugh...

while i'm not the biggest fan of summer, i know many of you are. spending too much time in the sun, however, can leave you feeling fried. while i must stress that you use sunscreen and apply regularly thruought the day, you can find quick relief when you may experience sunburn.



celebrity esthetician, Scott-Vincent Borba has given me some at-home skin recipes to share with you that will soothe your skin that are cost-effective and fast-acting. let's learn more, shall we?




to achieve instant, head-to-toe relief, take a milk bath! milk contains essential fats that help create a temporary barrier on the skin and soothe pain. to do this, fill your tub with cool water and add one gallon of milk (rich in vitamin D) plus two Alka-Seltzer tablets. the carbonation will work immediately, calming any skin irritation. add in 12-24 ice cubes, slowly-- this will allow your body to acclimate to the cool temperature.




yogurt, like milk, contains different types of fat that create a temporary protective barrier on the skin and soothe pain. to make a soothing smoothie, fill a large ziplock bag with yogurt and place in a freezer for at least thirty minutes. remove the bag from the freezer and puncture the front and back with a fork. wrap a towel around the bag and set it on the sunburned area.




sour cream offers a cooling sensation that can last longer than aloe vera (it, too, contains fatty ingredients that work to alleviate the pain and redness that comes with sunburn-- i'm noticing a pattern here...). slather a dollop of sour cream on burnt skin and cover with an ice cold wash cloth. repeat until any stinging or burning sensations dissipate.




starch found in potatoes can offer an immediate relief from overly sun-kissed skin. take two large potatoes, chop them and toss them into a blender. add a tablespoon of honey to give the mixture adhesive qualities. puree the ingredients and place them on sensitive areas of skin, you should feel instant relief. you can also use green granny apples instead of potatoes, this popular fruit contains high anti-inflammatory agents that work to reduce the redness in sunburned skin.

thanks, Scott!

these are great tips, don't you think? though, if i'm being honest, i'm hoping you won't have to use these recipes too often this summer! :)

xo

Origins Modern Friction

Origins doesn't want you to have to scrub your face with harsh, chemical crystals, so they have created Modern Friction, a rice starch cushioned in cream, to gently slough off dead skin cells, reverse damage and get rid of discolorations. lemon oil starts the process of illumination, while aloe keeps skin calm and comfy. there's no ouch, extra steps or other complications. no redness or flaking follows, and the perk-me-up aromas of bergamot and peppermint help you look on the bright side.

from the reviews online, this is definitely something i want to try! stay tuned...

find Modern Friction at your local Origins counter and online at origins.com

xo

review: Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Masque

i've been using Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Masque for the last few weeks (fyi, it comes in the latest Beautyfix kit), and while i don't usually use peel-off masks, the benefits (stimulates cell renewal, gently exfoliates, reduces fine lines and increases skin's clarity and firmness) and ingredients captured my attention.

now i am in love with the stuff!

this treatment mask is uber-pampering and oh-so refreshing. it combines a blend of alpha and polyhydroxy acids that go to work to remove dirt, excess oils and dead skin without sucking out precious moisture. antioxidants (pro-vitamins A, B5, C and E) give skin protection to fight against free radicals (you know, those pesky things that cause cells to break down, leading to pre-mature aging), and botanicals keep my skin balanced-- in a nut shell this treats my not-getting-any-younger skin fabulously and leaves it looking amazing-- you need to try it for yourself!

find Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Masque at dermstore.com

xo

review: Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate

Liz Earl Superskin Concentrate is a super-intense aromatic blend of 100% pure plant oils is a rich, restoring treat for all skin types, especially mature. contains softening argan and organic rosehip oils, soothing neroli, lavender and chamomile essential oils plus protective natural source vitamin E.

infused with many skin-loving oils that don't clog pores, Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate only helps to put your skin a more healthy state. if your skin is oily, the natural plant oils help keep it balanced, and if your skin is dry, or you have more mature skin, it really helps give an extra boost of moisture!

i love this product even though i'm not a huge fan of the smell. lavender has never been a favorite of mine, but i find that it does have a calming effect on me. this serum is to be used only at night, so it works out perfectly!

i love the results i have seen since using this! it's not something i would have picked up myself, but i am super thankful for it now that i have it! i know my skin is being nourished with amazing ingredients and the results are written all over my face!

find Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate at lizearle.com

xo

Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector

i keep reading about Clinique's new Even Better Skin Tone Corrector, and naturally i am curious:

to virtually undo the visible evidence of sun-damage, dark patches, age spots and even the inevitable darkening that follows acne scarring, this basically gives skin a clean slate, creating a brightness and clarity for all skin tones- gently.

Marie Claire magazine put this on their list of 25 products that will change your life, so how is that for buzzworthy? used twice daily on face, chest and hands results are generally seen on 4-6 weeks. when using this it is highly recommended that sunscreen be used everyday.

hopefully, i can get my hands on this soon, and give you the inside scoop on whether or not this actually works!

visit clinique.com for more information.

xo

Ojon: "The Ball"

what is better than chocolate? nothing, as far as i'm concerned, but Ojon's "The Ball", comes in a close second.

created using only natural ingredients, The Ball was inspired by a 1000 year-old central american tradition. it infuses savage cacao and pure Ojon oil to give you the ultimate good-for-your skin treatment.

i love the fact that this Ball smells like yummy chocolate, but know because of a friend's experience, that it really tastes nothing like chocolate.

so what are the benefits of The Ball?

*exfoliates and polishes- packed in The Ball are smooth bits of ojon nut shells, cacao nut paste and alula crushed leaves to gently, yet effectively, smooth away dead skin cells and refine skin's texture.

*moisturizes and calms- wildcrafted Ojon oil, cocoa seed butter, passion fruit oil and rice starch extract leave skin feeling so soft. alula extract and Swa™ oil contain natural ant-irritation properties.

*powerful antioxidants and omega fatty acids- the savage cacao blend contains the same antioxidant amount as 2,834 lbs of blueberries to fight of damaging free radicals, while Ojon oil (omega 3, 6, 9) and passion fruit oil (omega 6) helps with skin's function and structure.

*stimulates circulation- buff The Ball in a circular motion over skin creating a gentle massage thus stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel good chemicals, to help induce relaxation and a sense of well-being.


i love all of the benefits of this fabulous product! now i finally know why so many people rave about it. my skin looks so healthy and feels so smooth after only using this for the last week. i know i will continue to use it, and my skin will continue to look and feel fabulous!

yes, it's a little on the pricey side ($65), but knowing that each Ball takes 2 days to create and helps benefit the preservation of rainforests in central america , it really does put more value on it to me.


stay tuned as i will be bringing you my review of the new White Ball, releasing just in time for the holidays!

The Ball is free of artificial colors, sulfates, silicone, or preservatives and is available at Sephora, sephora.com and qvc.com

xo

product craving: Ojon Tawaka "The Ball"

Tawaka The Ball.

have you heard of it? it's the newest product from the amazing company Ojon. this is a product that, by it's description, needs to be in my shower (and yours!). this is a truly distinct product in the body treatment category.

this Ball looks like, and even smells like, a giant chocolate truffle (!!!) and is designed to be used as an exfoliator and hydrator for the skin. the powerful formula (which also includes omega fatty acids 3, 6 and 9) contains the same anti-oxidant benefits of 2,834 lbs of blueberries (i know i couldn't even eat that in a week)!

infused with savage cacao, not to mention it's formulated without artificial color, sulfates, silicone, parabens or preservatives, The Ball prepares pores for treatment by removing debris and refining surface texture. buffing it in a circular motion helps stimulate circulation, leaving skin polished and soft with a smooth satin finish and no greasy residue.

sounds amazing, right? when i have an opportunity to try this, i will be sure to tell you all about it!

find out more for yourself, visit sephora.com.

discover more Ojon products at Ojon.com

xo

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