May 27th is Don't Fry Day!

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as Don’t Fry Day – May 27^th 2011 a.k.a. Today! In order to help reduce the risk of Skin Cancer, the Council’s goal is to encourage sun safety awareness by reminding everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors on Don’t Fry Day and every day. 

Another event taking place on this day is moi meeting Skin Care Expert & Celebrity Esthetician Renée Rouleau at the W Hotel in Boston for my very own skin consult! Stay tuned and in the mean time, here are some tips from the lovely Renée:

 

Sun Protection Tip #1: Be aware of daylight coming through windows.There is a belief that the only time you get sun exposure (and therefore sun damage) is when you are outside. I’m here to say that this is just not true. UV light (that damages your skin) can penetrate windows at any daylight hour. Shade your windows at home and at work!

Sun Protection Tip #2 – Apply sunscreen or sunblock to the entire face, neck and chest – GENEROUSLY.Did you know that an SPF 30 only protects the skin 4% more than an SPF 15? And as you go up in number, this percentage lowers. The real truth behind sun protection is not the SPF number, but how generously you apply it. Published medical studies have shown that most people apply 1/3 to 1/2 the recommended dose of sunblock. A little dab won’t do ya! First thing in the morning, I apply a thick coat to the face, neck, ears, tops of hands and chest (my exposed areas of skin) for an important defense against the UV rays given off from the sun. Since the skin on my face is oily and acne-prone (I’m a skin type #2 in my nine skin types), and since sunblock should be applied generously, it is so important to find one that is formulated for your skin type and won’t feel greasy or cause breakouts. I use my Daily Protection SPF 30, which gives both UVA and UVB protection and dries to a matte finish on the skin. It works amazing under my makeup since it’s so light.

Sun Protection Tip #3 – Get your car windows tinted.The side and rear car windows do not filter out any damaging UV rays, so consider tinting your car windows. I recently purchased a new car and had my car windows tinted with a special tint that is used on military planes that cuts out 95% of UV rays, yet is not very dark in color. This esthetician means business when it comes to my skin!

Sun Protection Tip #4 – Wear sun protection clothing.I know it may sound like I live my life in a dark cave–this is hardly the truth! I own a Harley Davidson and spend my free time out on the open road, plus I love running outside when the weather is nice. So to protect my skin from the damaging rays, I purchase special sun protective clothing (light jackets and shirts) to wear when I’m outdoors for long periods of time. Most shirts offer only 5 to 9 SPF whereas sun protective clothing can offer up to an SPF 58.

Sun Protection Tip #5 – Apply mineral powder throughout the day.You’ve always heard how important it is to apply sunblock every 2 hours, yet if you’ve got full makeup on, this may not be practical. Mineral powders are all the rage these days, and have a natural sunblock built in them (usually a minimum SPF 20). Keep one in your handbag and dust it on your skin throughout the day since direct sunlight, as well as the oils your skin naturally produces can degrade protection. I also dust mine on the tops of my hands since my morning application of sunblock will wash off when I wash my hands.

Bottom line: Research shows that 78% of all sun damage is from incidental exposure (the times when you think you aren’t exposed, but you are). The truth is every time daylight sees your skin (inside or out, winter or summer), you increase how rapidly your skin will age. So if you want to get really serious about lowering your risk of skin cancer and preventing premature skin aging, practice these tips. You really do have a say in the matter of how your skin will look and act when it’s older, but the choice is yours.

 

Available at www.ReneeRouleau.com

Glowology

Think of it as a summer school subject, for those who spent their hours in biology dreaming about vacation. Glowology is kind of like a science. The science of looking beautiful, revealing great skin and keeping up with Eco-Friendly status.

The only supplies needed are amazing products and skin that is seeking out nurture! Everyone gets and A+

After sampling a few goodies, it is clear that The Balm is a new staple in my life.

My knees will never quit thanking me. The Balm is enriched with organic Shea Butter and other lovely ingredients such as Lemon and Orange, Sunflower Oil, Salicylic Acid to soften rough areas and Bilberry - a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps ward off pre-mature aging. Applying is over night to feet is the perfect in-between pedicure treatment. I like applying it to my knees after the shower.

Glowology's Heavenly Honey Wash and Sugar Mama Scrub compliment each other as well. 

The wash is formulated to gently clean sensitive skin and the Scrub somehow magically exfoliates sans the feeling of sand paper that seems to be the status-quo these days.

Basically, all you need to do to pass this class is Mama Scrub you legs, shave, Balm up your knees and head to the nearest beach!

Glowology can be found at www.Glowologyskincare.com

Loreal's Showering us with Spring goodies

Common brands that provide great results are few and far between. Loreal stands alone, always raising the bar by providing luxuriously affordable-products that everyone can afford. This spring there is a delightful array of goodies to keep you looking gorgeous.

Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfection -

The first and most likely to cause an instant grin is this little jar of preparation.

It can be worn alone or under makeup, it's a base that fills lines and minimizes the appearance of pores. Soft light weight powders within the formula provide and instant mattte look.

I've used it both alone and with make up. My forehead was the test, because lately there have been some fine lines appearing that I'm not too please about. It worked wonders and filled in with out caking and lasted all day.

As far as color discrepancies are concerned, Loreal has three moisturizing formulas to keep your face all one hue! One to combat redness, one to illuminate and add warmth to light skin tones, and one that adds glow to mediums skin tone.

Age Perfection Hydra-Nurtition

Remember that forehead I mentioned? I've been slathering this on it.  This cream penetrates deeply to hydrate and moisturize, just a couple things on the list to fight aging. I enjoyed the silkiness of the cream, definitely non-gooey.

Concentrated Lash Boosting Serum and Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara

Prior to applying mascara, the serum acts as a conditioner to protect lashes. This was my favorite. We underestimate the wear and tear caused by daily application from mascara. But who wants to by-step amazing lashes? I adore the idea of conditioning first, and the mascara went on smoother as well.

Go 360 Clean

OK, so I got a kick out of these! The cleansers feature the first ever Scrublet tool, containing 500 super soft and tiny bristles. It's reusable and there a cute storage spot for it on the cleansing bottle. It's not harsh like those disposable scrub pads and yet does a much better job cleaning out pores with out looking like your cat scratched you. I like popping the Scrublet in and out of its storage place, it's such a neat idea. And it's the perfect product for traveling too!

Colorist Secrets Shine Gloss

Sure you have colored your hair on your own at some point. But have you given yourself a shine enhancement? In ten minutes an amonia-free vibrant flow of tresses can be yours! 
The claim is that it lasts up to four weeks. It's been two weeks and my shine is still pronounced! If you don't try it now, definitely try it mid summer when your hair begins to feel the effects of sun, sand, and dryness.

If you are in the market for affordable beauty enhancing this spring (and I know you are) march down to CVS or Walgreens or Walmart or your local Supermarket or....you get the picture.

Currently Craving

I can never get enough of eye creams. Loreal has taken the cue from vibrating mascaras and such to bring us Collagen Mirco-Pulse Eye. 

It gets rid of puffiness with the vibration collagen steps in to battle wrinkle/dark circles. My next trip to CVS will include this for sure.

Exuviance

 

Exuviance Brightening Bionic Eye Cream is clinically proven to combat dark circles, bags, and crows feet. What a trifecta! 

It is available at Ulta stores and  online by clicking HERE. I have not tried it yet because I'm in the midst of trying too many other products. If I do get to it soon then you will be the first to know.





A dear acquaintance of mine has been raving about it, and was shocked that I had not sampled this so called "miracle". At least that is what she calls it. So that is why it seemed worthy of a post.

Elemis Rose & Lavender Recovery Regime

A true leader in skin care, Elemis kicked it up a notch and launched the Rose & Lavender Recovery Regime last month.

Although the time has passed to snatch up the limited edition set, it's never too late to get devulge your senses and pamper your skin!

Elemis's detoxifying regimen is about an anti-oxidant treatment, a renewing exfoliator and decadent moisturizers. It is about recovering skin to your youthful origin and protecting it from future elements.

I rather enjoyed enhancing my skins vitality this week. What, with the sensual Rose Exfoliator and Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, I had those pesky fine lines put right in their place! Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules were my favorite, though. They can be used as a spot treatment or all over. For me it's all about the forehead.

The exfoliator wasn't too harsh and using the entire line has brought to light some wonderful results sans any irritation. 

GGZF's bottom line is.....results....and "is there a side effect?". The only side effect here was supple skin texture.

So girlfriends, get your Valentines Day booty down to Nordstrom to try it out.

There is still about two weeks to get that skin back into shape!

Beauty Through Balance

Our neighbors up north often take the back seat when it comes to recognition for beauty products. However Ancient Secrets, a Canadian company founded in 1995 by Sherina Jamal, is dedicated to bringing forth powerful indigenous ingredients from different parts of the world and combining them with a scientific approach to create high quality result oriented skin care. 

The on going mission includes developing and providing superior skincare and education that will support healthy living and longevity.

Their Beauty Through Balance can be found in exclusive spas across the nation AND can now make their way into your at home spa aka your bathroom. 
Each time I try products, I have a preconceived notion on what the texture will be and I was off on all three of the ones I tried. Even though I was off, they were ON the mark! 

Green Tea Seaweed Salt Glow

What I thought it was going to be like: Visions of a gooey scrub naturally entered my thoughts. Even the best scrubs have a goo factor that conflicts with the tub.

What it was: To my delightful surprise, the salt glow was not gooey. In fact it was more like a powder. What happens, is... you combine it with a little bit of water on your wet skin to form your own paste! Part of the signature line (with a seaweed base) It is created with salt crystals, natural oils, green tea and fresh Pacific Seaweed. I used on my elbows and knees to slew off that wintry dryness.

Why I loved it: My elbows and knees were definitely softer. I liked that I was able to form it into my own paste so that no residue was left on the tub for me to slip on.

Seaweed Body Butter

What I thought it was going to be like: Again I thought it was going to be gooey. I love butters but then I have the urge to wash my hands six times after I use them

What it was: Not so. Also part of the signature series,It had the power of a thick butter but instead the lighter version that still included Cocoa and Shea Butter, was combined with seaweed and green tea sans the grease!

Why I loved it: I applied it to my freshly glowing elbows and knees. It was absorbed quickly and my hands didn't feel greasy after. That's a super plus to me. And the super softness of my rough spots lead me to think this could be a new staple in my routine...Yay!!!

Acai Body Emulsion

What I thought it was going to be like: I actually thought this was going to be kind of like a gel.

What it was: Part of the new Acai Series, this Emulsion is for targeting sun damaged areas. My target was my chest and neck.

It's a light fluffy lotion with anti-aging benefits from Acai extract, vitamin C, Olivate from pure olive oil and rainforest Capuacu butter.

Why I loved it: My chest felt silky after application and it was not like a gel at all. It was more like a whipped lotion of pure bliss.

I'm really impressed by this line because it's not only essential that products work, but when the clean up is minimal or non existant.....all the better!
For more information and to purchase, Visit Beauty Through Balance.

Plump Lips and a Stuffed Turkey

Christmas mistletoe is most responsible for  smooches of the season. I say - why not get started on Thursday? You'll be kissing friends and family all day on Thanks Giving. It will be a great day to show off Erno LaszLo's TRANSpHUSE LIP pHIXATVIE. By the way, this would make a great stocking stuffer too!

This gem softens fine lines with dermaxyl peptide complex and plumps up the volume with marine filling spheres. It also contains optical diffusers to create a smooth look.

You know me and packaging...I love the tube and more importantly I love the smooth roller ball, and how not too much comes out on the roller at once.
Between this and pHORMULA 3-9, I'll be queen of the mistletoe next month!


Visit www.ernolaszlo.com for purchasing or your nearest and dearest Nordstom.

Forgotten spots

Just a quick tid bit as head into the weekend.....Most anti-aging products tell us to apply to our neck and décolletage. Few of us actually remember to do it or are too lazy. I've become better, and now that I have this product that is especially for the neck, it's easier to remember.

BeFine has a cream made especially for the neck. It contains. mushrooms, iris flower, and caffeine to firm and reduce the appearance of fine lines. I like that it's not too thick and didn't cause any blotchy spots. BeFine is available at drug stores like CVS and they don't break the bank! Visit www.befine.com for a peek at all their products!

Renee to the rescue

Lets talk about yesterday, shall we? My day hit a steady decline the moment I woke up. If any of you live in the Boston area then you know where I'm going with this. SNOW. It happened. On OcTObEr 18, mind you. Unannounced and under the meteorologist's radar, it splatted all over the damn place.

There was  also my list of things to do..... in which I did ZERO of anything on my list. It was obstacle after obstacle. I did manage to accidentally spend an obscene amount of lettuce on parking, at a place that I had not intended to go. I also managed to accidentally get charged for a spicy salmon roll and a large diet coke, even though I ordered a California roll and a small diet coke, but didn't realize it until it was too late. Aside from that, other sad stories, and the inclement weather, there WAS a happy ending.

I came home and soaked my sorrows in a very long hot bath and did some product testing. Among the attendees of my pity party were Renee Rouleau's Hawaiian Nourishing Cream. My dry skin (that was brutally attacked by the flakes) felt much better when I applied it and it absorbed quickly with out any goo left behind!

The paraben-free formula is derived from Red Marine Algae that is taken from the shores of the Hawaiian Islands (where it doesn't snow). It's high tech make up is the answer for dehydrated, aging skin that is in desperate need of moisture.

The moisture provided assists with repairing surface lines. Clinical studies have shown a substantial increase in collagen stimulation and a 20% increase in firmness in just four weeks.

Hawaiian Nourishing Cream also comes in hand to sooth redness from burns, chemical peels, and laser treatments. Other key ingredients are Ginseng Extract and Vitamins A,C, & E.

For more information on natural products that sooth, repair and protect your skin from the elements AND to purchase Renee's products, visit www.reneerouleau.com 

Now, if only Rennee Rouleau can create a product that makes me feel like I'm in Hawaii and not Snowy Boston, ahhhh.

M Lab

When sampling an entire line of products, one can get carried away for a few days. I was that one, and aside from my impulsive need to discuss M Lab's Anti-Aging cleanser last week, I really wanted to make sure this line was making a difference.

After all, sampling products is a full time profession 'round here so in order to be sure beauty treatments don't over lap, there has been some down time between reviews. The lull ends here because I'm fully fascinated with M Lab.M Lab's scientists have created a clinically proven line that some have compared it to Creme de la Mer. That's quite a comparison if I do say so myself. I was certainly impressed.

The Anti-Aging Cleanser is still my favorite with its impeccable texture, and tri-active blend of cleansing agents that clean, hydrate, soothe, and calm the skin. I'm still using it daily and love the way it aids in massaging the skin.

I wish there were a body wash that had a similar texture. If ever one surfaces, you will be informed immediately. But back to the current topic.....

Since the weather has gone down the tubes, my skin has been a little on the dry side and M Lab has improved my issue. Not so much that I'm not begging for warmer weather to come back, but enough so that I can tell you that YOU need to get your manicured hands on M Lab's products.

The other goodies I tried were the following:

Anti-Aging Toner - made up of a complex of plant extracts and mineral co-factors to promote smooth skin.

Anti-Aging Blemish Control Cleanser - Gently exfoliates and controls oil while improving skin texture.

Anti-Aging Blemish Control Treatment - Refines pores and increases skin firmness while combating wrinkles simultaneously. I recommended using it during that awful time of the month.

Anti-Aging Eye Cream - Really? Y'all know my excitement when it comes to eye cream. This one uses peptides and is M Lab-Fab!

Anti-Aging Treatment Cream -  advanced peptides and anti-oxidants provided skin firming and dermal elasticity. Also reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Anti-Aging Treatment Serum - This one restores the dermal hydration. My mom used the serum, she hearts it.

....And as a side note, serums usually work better on mature skin. Not to say that you can't use it in your twenties like moi, but a cream works fine. I like a good serum a couple times a week.

The bottom line is that my skin is firmer and well hydrated. Job well done!

M Lab is available exclusively online at www.mlabonline.com and if your in London, Harrods.

Skin Detox

Skyn Iceland

What can I say? They've been 'round the block for a while but they do have a new and improved product that is very much worth mentioning several times if need be. Anti Oxidant Calming Serum:

If your feeling like your skin is over worked and that youthfulness is slowly slipping away it could mean it's dehydrated and that leads to rapid aging.

Antioxidant Calming Serum is the answer to assist stress-induced skin damage. A bio-intensive peptide soothes away redness and irritation, while Sodium PCA provides lightweight natural hydration. Superoxide dismutase and co-enzyme Q-10, two potent, cutting edge antioxidants, stimulate normal cell function and help prevent free radical damage.

The bottom line is your skin will feel like it just drank a sparkling glass of H2O leaving you with a phenomenally refreshed feeling.

Skyn Iceland products can be purchased at Sephora or online at www.skyniceland.com

More on Lancaster

Yes it's true, I'm a tad bit obsessed with Lancaster.

Here is why: They are FanTAbUloUs!

There are some other products that are just as awesome as the spf parade from yesterday:

Carrousel Compact Powder

What it is: It's a 5-in-1 compact that holds the sun rays inside. It's one of those products that armed with a Kabuki brush should be in your purse even in the winter months.

What it does: Boosts your natural glow with a color pallet for every complexion.

I use it on my fore head and cheeks but you can use it all over your face for instant radiance.

Eye Serum

It does what all the other Eye potions do out there ONLY BETTER

365 Cellular Elixir and Microdermabrasion at home Kit

What it is: Speaking directly from Lancaster it's A silky, ultra-comfortable and lightweight serum that supports DNA protection and dermal renewal while delivering the utmost in moisture for even the most sensitive of skin. After the first application, your complexion appears instantly softer, smoother, and more luminous. After 28 days, skin recovers elasticity, fine lines fade, and wrinkles are visibly reduced.

Speaking from myself; I am seriously amazed at the results with in my forehead region and was skeptical at first but it's been only three weeks and those number 11's have almost disappeared. A little machine is used (just like at the spa) to rid the dermis of dry skin and massage the 365 elixir in to restore youthful skin. After the treatment you can follow with your daily moisture routine.

What it does: Immediately smooths the skin and after 28 days of use, fine lines are reduced and skin regains it's elasticity!

This could very well be your secret weapon against AARP membership...Lol

Once again Lancaster is available at Nordstom, Bloomingdales, and Lord and Taylor.

For the latest info on what's happening in fashion click here

24 hours in a day....

May is skin cancer awareness month! Since April had an identity crisis, we should all be diligent about our skin care and there is no better time then the present.

NIA 24 has a comprehensive line of skin care that is perfect for those that have spent summers baking in the sun. Joined with skin cancer awareness they create a lovely statement.I couldn't decide weather or not I wanted to test out NIA24 on my face or my left hand. As an avid sun addict and road warrior, my left hand looks a lot older then the rest of me. So that was the winner......lo and behold, NIA24 was also a winner. I used it for 10 days and began to see results after seven. This does not mean that we should all go frying in the sun since we think there is a cure. But it does mean that if you have damaged skin then NIA24 is 4U and that it does undo the damage. Let's just say I'll be stocking up in October. Still use the SPF!!

Antioxidants are the heart of NIA24. The patent formula including NIACIN (hence the name) works inside out to protect the skin barrier. It stimulates natural function, strengthens, and tones. Ideally it is for anyone who wants to put a halt to pre-mature aging and those with sun damage.
If you use retinols or happen to be at the age where you receive chemical peels or laser therapy then march right down to your skin care DR. and ask if they sell it. If you live in the Boston area....

Some of my go-to's are

Sheldon J. Sevinor, MD
138 St. James AVE
Boston 781-592-3632
There is also a Lynfield office

and

Advanced Laser Concepts
9 Basswood Ave
Billerica 978-663-7400

You can also purchase it online at www.dermastore.com
For more info on NIA 24 and to see before and after photos visit NIA24.com

For the latest info on what's happening in fashion click here