New Clarins counter in Bloomingdales, New York

I was notified via email about this great event. As I'm on the West Coast, I can't attend (my private jet is in for maintenance, naturally), but I hope you New Yorkers and/or visiting guests can see what's blooming and partake in the fun ;)

From the email: Clarins invites New Yorkers to “Sow the Seeds of Great Skin” as we unveil our new counter, a botanical oasis full of lush foliage and spectacular floral displays, and celebrate the new beauty floor at Bloomingdale’s 59th street. True to Clarins’ botanical heritage, the plants and flowers used to create the celebratory environment represent natural ingredients used in Clarins products including Sunflowers, Coriander, Lavender, Basil and Rosemary. Customers will also receive a packet of sunflower seeds as a gift, providing Clarins women the chance to leave their own personal imprint on the environment.

From October 15-25, explore the new world of Clarins and experience a series of special beauty events including complimentary Skin Time Facial Treatments, exclusive classes, and beauty parties. Guest speakers include Clarins worldwide skin care expert Rose Marie Castano, who was personally trained by Clarins founder, Jacques Courtin-Clarins. Aline Hebert, VP of Clarins Education, will also provide skin care tips, techniques and quick fixes using Clarins “must-have” products.

Clarins Event Calendar:
10/15 – Kick Off Beauty Party
10/16 – Beauty Party
10/17 – Beauty Party
10/18 – Superior Skin Care Secrets Master Class: hosted by Joseph Favilla
10/19 – Meet the Expert: Rose Marie Castano
10/20 – Meet the Expert: Rose Marie Castano
10/21 – Studio Master Class: hosted by Rose Marie Castano
10/22 – Meet the Expert: Aline Hebert
10/24 – Halloween Beauty Party: Get into the trick-or-treat mood
10/25 – Halloween Beauty Party

Attendees are asked to RSVP to events via the Clarins Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/Clarins, which will also provide a full schedule as well as up-to-date information and developing news. You can also follow Clarins on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ClarinsNews.

More luscious offerings from Soaptopia

Rave Review // RareMinerals Renew & Reveal Facial Cleanser

My best friend handed the RareMinerals Renew & Reveal Facial Cleanser off to me last weekend, saying that it didn't work for her. I'm not sure what that meant, but I gladly accepted it. (How could I resist?!) RareMinerals is a branch of the Bare Escentuals / bare Minerals company that offers skincare products. I'm a bare Minerals foundation user, and I like it very much, so I'm pleased to say that I highly recommend the RareMinerals facial cleanser (cost: $26).

From the site: Paraben-free, water-activated powder formula that gently cleanses, exfoliates and nourishes skin, leaving skin purified and baby-soft. Our exclusive, 100% pure RareMinerals Complex gently exfoliates the skin to promote skin cell renewal and also nourishes the skin with healthy antioxidants and soothing botanical extracts. Contains no drying detergents, no harsh abrasives nor other skin-irritating chemicals. It releases the maximum potency of the key ingredients each time you cleanse, revealing fresher, smoother and more radiant skin.

I'm impressed with this washing powder. I've never used a cleanser like this. For the past 5 days, I've used it day and night, and it's wonderful on my sensitive skin. The exfoliating power is mild, so there's no irritation. The level of scrub you get depends on how much water, or how little, you combine the powder with. It cleanses well and leaves my skin smooth and soft. I don't wear mascara or eye shadows, so I'm not sure how it tackles eye make-up, but it washes off my foundation just fine. This is the second exfoliating product I've used that I love - and my skin loves even more. The other was the Origins Modern Friction dermabrasion, which is actually rougher than the washing powder, but just as non-irritating. If you like 2-in-1 products, check out the RareMinerals cleanser.

Rave Review // Alba Botanica

I was in Whole Foods recently and noticed a branch of new Alba products: Rainforest. I've used the Alba hair conditioners in the past, but rarely their skin care products (their Hibiscus Facial Toner was too strong for my fair skin). All the same, I thought I'd give them another shot. I'm impressed so far. I purchased the Lush Facial Creme (moisturizer) and the CUPUAÇU Deep Hydration Body Wash.

From the website:
Lush Facial Creme - Brazil Nut Oil helps prevents dryness, and leaves skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. Andiroba Oil helps soothe and heal skin. Myristic acid contributes to the acceleration of healing of damaged skin. Rich in extract of Tiger Nut, this luscious facial cream enhances resilience and delivers the deep-moisturizing benefits of Brazil Nut and Andiroba Oils to help strengthen and rejuvenate skin. Deeply moisturizes. Size: 1.5 oz. Price: $22.95.

CUPUAÇU Deep Hydration Body Wash

Gently cleanses and supremely moisturizes. Cupuaçu butter is a rich emollient that delivers deep hydration and helps restore softness and elasticity. This gentle body wash deeply hydrates with a nutrient-dense blend of Rainforest ingredients including emollient-rich Cupuaçu Butter for soft and smooth skin. Gently cleanses and supremely moisturizes. Perfect for all skin types, especially dry or sensitive. Size: 8 oz. Price: $9.95.

Both products sound enticing, right? I'm happy to say both are great. The Lush Facial Creme is definitely suited for dry skin to very dry skin types; it's a rich creme that moisturizers very well. No irritation. The Body Wash didn't quite live up to the hype - I found it no more moisturizing than many other moisture infusing body washes. That being said, it really does have a Rainforest-y (read: tropical) scent that is pleasing and a nice lather that rinses off clean.

Vitamin C vs. Sensitive Skin

I've received three comments now on Avalon Organics Vitamin C Cleansing Gel for my March 22, 2008 review on Avalon Organics Lavendar Cleanser & Toner. I had an issue with the lavendar based products, and all three commenters had bad reactions to the vitamin C cleanser.

I'm linking this page from the American Academy of Dermatology, which features a great list of facts and advice on how to care for sensitive skin by Dermatologist Leslie Baumann. I highly recommend everyone takes a look. Note this line, especially: "Dr. Baumann advised that skin care products containing vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) should be avoided, as they are acidic and can cause stinging."

Free shipping thru Aug. 17 at Soaptopia, groovy discounts galore

It's nearly been a year since I reviewed Soaptopia's 50/50 Body Balm (which I raved about) but I was just notified that Soaptopia is offering free online shipping this weekend, Friday, August 14 – Monday, August 17 in honor the Woodstock 40th anniversary weekend. Enter in the coupon code FREEISGOOD when placing your order. Groovy, dude!

Also, Soaptopia is launching three new soap flavors: Purple Haze (Lavender and Patchouli), Vet it Be (Vetiver and Grapefruit), and Love Thyme All the Time (Thyme). Plus, select "hippie inspired" soaps are on sale. Check out Soaptopia today for tons of "junk free" bath & body products, and candles!

Rave Review // Dr. Murad's Soothing Gel Cleanser

Another goodie I was fortunate to receive from my sister. I've used Dr. Murad's Soothing Gel Cleanser in the past, and am reminded by why I enjoyed using it. 6.75 oz. Cost: $25.

From the site: This patented gel reduces irritation and redness by washing away impurities as it conditions skin to alleviate tightness, stinging and sensitivity. Goji Berry Extract provides antioxidant protection Moisture-rich beads soften rough, dry skin.

What's great is that a little goes a long way; a pearl sized amount is fine because with a little water, this product lathers really well. Apply on damp skin and massage your face; add a touch of water, create lather and continue washing if you're like me and genuinely enjoy cleansing your face (or is that OCD?); rinse away the lather to reveal a smooth, clean face. It's not squeaky-clean for my dry skin, which I love, but still rinses away without leaving residue. It doesn't irritate at all, and is indeed soothing. I use this cleanser in the morning along with cool water; very refreshing and effective in the AM.

Rave Review // Caudalie Moisturzing Cream

I've never used the luscious, elegant Caudalie brand before, but am pleased to have tried it; I was fortunate enough to purchase this product at a discount. The Moisturzing Cream is part of Caudalie's Energizing Regimen, which promotes anti-oxidants. (Regular price: $40.00 for 1.3 oz.)

The moisturizing cream feels rich on the skin and is pleasantly fragrant. Made without parabens or other harmful ingredients, it's ideal for sensitive skin. Ingredients include: grape-seed polyphenols, grape-seed oil and olive extract, plant glycerine, coriander, sweet lime, lemon, guaiac wood, sweet orange, vetiver, sandalwood and lavandin. It's soothing and helps skin emit a glow. It's appropriate for very dry skin, perferably during wintertime; it's far too thick for oily skin and hot summer weather, where I feel it can become shiny by the end of the day.

Solid Review // Dr. Murad's Moisture Silk Eye Gel

I'm approaching 27 y/o this year, and I think applying a quality eye cream day and night will be mandatory from now on. It's amazing how dark circles and/or puffiness beneath the eye really gives one's age away, not to mention how unattractive it is. I watch what I eat (especially salty foods, which causes puffiness in the skin) and try to get enough sleep, but of course, I'm not always successful in these areas - and some days, it really shows.

I received a couple of Dr. Murad products recently as a gift from my sister, and it's been wonderful to use them. My favorite product has been Dr. Murad's Moisture Silk Eye Gel, from his Vitalic line (0.5 oz. $49.50).

Description from the site: Lightweight cream-gel smoothes and hydrates providing a silky finish. Algae Extract, Allantoin and Caffeine fight under eye puffiness to help revive tired eyes while Chamomile Extract calms, soothes and moisturizes. Light refractors minimize dark circles. Pomegranate Extract protects against free radical damage.

I apply the eye gel night and day, and there is an obvious reduction in puffiness post application within an hour's time. The product is cooling upon contact and silky to the touch. I use a generous amount at night, and it causes no irritation to my eyes. A half-pump to one full pump on your middle finger offers enough product; despite the limited quantity, the product should last for months. I don't see dramatic results regarding diminishing the dark circles, but I can only hope that the product is working, possibly on a long-term use basis.

On that note, here's a site I just found, with some tips to brighten up your eyes: http://www.herdaily.com/fashion/4187/helping-get-rid-of-dark-circles-and.html

Rave Review // Ahava Moisturizing Shower Cream

Products with Dead Sea content in them intrigue me, and always seem so high-end. Exoticness aside, I'm over the moon about Ahava's Moisturizing Shower Cream, from their Dermud line (6.8 oz. $18.00). It's created specifically for sensitive, dry skin; no parabens or sodium lauryl sulfate were used.

From the Ahava website: This soap-free formulation lathers generously over your body for a gentle, deep cleaning shower experience. Its unique combination of Dead Sea Mud and Mineral Skin Osmoter™ interacts with your skin’s natural moisturizing factor to facilitate a significant reduction of dryness and itchiness, as it softly rejuvenates and soothes.

This is the first body wash I've ever used that actually lathers so creamily you'd think you were bathing with bubbly lotion - it feels that moisturizing on the body while in the shower. The fragrance is pleasantly subtle. Post shower, skin feels smooth, soft, moisturized. There's nothing irritating about this product; reacts beautifully with my delicate skin.

Rave Review // Origins Modern Friction dermabrasion

This is a find, especially for those of us with delicate skin. Someone gave me a sample of Origins Modern Friction, and I didn't think much of it until I gave it a test run. I was hooked, and I immediately hit Target (available at an Origins location or Origins online, too) to pick up a full-size (4 oz., $37.00) jar. It's appropriate for all skins types, but to find a "buffing paste" that doesn't irritate my sensitive facial skin is amazing.

From the website: Sand-blasting skin with coarse, chemical crystals? How painfully passé. Here’s age-smoothing exfoliation without irritation. Skin-refining Rice Starch, cushioned in cream, shows real affinity for rapidly removing sluggish cells, uneven patches and signs of skin damage and discolorations. Lemon Oil kick starts the process of illumination. Another age-sweeping action: skin-menacing molecules are mopped up. All while Aloe keeps skin calm and comfy. There’s no ouch, extra steps or other complications. No redness or flaking follows. The before-and-afters are amazing. Signs of fine lines and size of pores appear to shrink in size. Skin looks perfectly polished, smooth and luminous. And the perk-me-up aromas of Bergamot and Peppermint help you look on the bright side.

I have combined the product with my facial cleanser and used it at night for a complete clean, but it can be used alone anytime. Like they claim, there's no blotchy redness or dried out spots left afterward - only extremely smooth, glowing skin that actually stays smooth for days following. I use it once, maybe twice a week. A little goes a long way. Lightly dampen your skin, scrub gently, then rinse. I don't wear make-up much of the time, and keeping my skin at its best is a high priority for me since I bare all to the public. I nearly hesistated due to the cost, but it's been worth it!

No pain, no fuss teeth whitening strips

I picked up the Target Whitening Dissolving Strips (cost: $16.99, 56 strips vs. Listerine Whitening Quick Dissolving Strips, $26.99) because I was in the market for whitening strips once again, which I haven’t used in some time. Compared to gels and trays, or strips that you have to peel off by hand, I prefer the dissolving strips – what a great idea!

The Target Dissolving Strips claims to reduce 3 shades in 7 week (optimal whitening in 14 days). I’ve used the strips once a day for 10 days so far (not consecutively though), and can honestly say I see a difference. (Note that I never had extremely stained teeth in the first place, but I can definitely see a reduction in color on my bottom teeth.)

You apply the strips to your lower and upper teeth. In 10 minutes, they’ve dissolved and your mouth smells of ‘Refreshing Mint.’ You can spit all the leftover goo out (or swallow; it’s safe to do so), rinse well and go. I spit, brush my teeth fully to achieve complete clean, and go. I have experienced no sensitivity at all with these strips. Regardless of whether you purchase the name brand or generic version, this is a great beauty buy for a great price.

Solid Review // Comodynes Facial Towelettes

I discovered Comodynes facial towelettes for sensitive/dry skin at Trader Joe's (they can also be purchased directly from the Comodynes website). They run between $4-5 for 20 towelettes. I prefer liquid cleansers, but I wanted to give pre-moistened towelettes a try. They're handy for removing make-up at the end of the day without a lot of fuss and perfect for travel; even your boyfriend might actually get into the routine of washing his face with products like this (one can only hope!). I love the ease of a cleanser and toner in one product. Not only do these towelettes actually moisturize my dry skin, rather than leave me uncomfortably squeaky clean and flaky, the act of gently scrubbing my face acts as an exfoliator, helping to rid my skin of roughness/dead skin/clogged pores. Ingredients include oats and aloe vera, and no alcohol.

My little issue with these towelettes is that they don't lather much at all. Of course, they still do the job, but I think a little more lather might help. It doesn't do a bad job at removing mascara, but it takes a little effort. Overall, an affordable, convenient buy.

Sustainable Youth Technologies: Discounted!

I created a post on April 4 about the 'green' brand, Sustainable Youth Technologies, and their three powerhouse beauty products. Special to Sensitive Solutions readers, here's a discount code for 10% OFF when you order any of their items individually: Intro10sensitivesolutions. (Discount code not applicable for the kit of three products.)

Happy shopping & stay beautiful!

Solid Review // Caress Evenly Gorgeous Body Wash

Disclaimer: I was mailed a full-size Caress Evenly Gorgeous body wash to test and review, free of charge.

I love body washes, and when the Caress Evenly Gorgeous body wash arrived in the mail, I was thrilled. Plus, it's an exfoliating body wash to boot. The best part about this product is the scent; it's rich and sweet smelling, much like two of their ingredients - burnt brown sugar and karite (shea) butter - and in some cases, lingers pleasantly on the body post shower. Exfoliating products can be harsh, but I'm pleased to say that this body wash was gentle on my skin and left it smooth. My only gripe is that, on my dry skin anyway, it wasn't really moisturizing. While in the shower, the product lathered well and felt great, but my dry skin felt lacking in much-needed moisture afterward. The ingredients weren't something I was too keen on - not much in the way of natural - but still a nice product, and long-lasting too; a little goes a long way. Prices vary, 18 oz. (Last I checked, Wal-Mart had the best price.)

Now for the fun stuff: Check out Caress for interactive features, videos, the rundown on the latest Caress products and the opportunity to win a trip to New York for Fashion Week with Carson Kressley!

Rave Review // Sustainable Youth Technologies

Disclaimer: I was emailed and asked if I was interested in testing out three Sustainable Youth Technologies products; a serum, cream and supplement. I agreed and was mailed the three products to sample free of charge.

Here are descriptions of each product from the Sustainable Youth site:
Immune Performance Revitalizing Serum: A weightless, topical treatment containing the immune-stimulating, patent-pending blend Alasta that absorbs instantly to rejuvenate skin’s radiance and glow as it helps improve skin’s elasticity and firmness for the appearance of younger-looking skin. Contains organic tea extracts and essential oils that help rejuvenate the skin and invigorate the senses.

Immune Performance Elasticity Cream: A lightweight, daily moisturizer containing the immune-stimulating, patent-pending blend Alasta that soothes and hydrates as it helps restore skin’s elasticity and firmness for the appearance of thicker, plumper skin.
Contains organic and natural oils, extracts and essential oils that condition, moisturize and soothe the skin and invigorate the senses.

Immune Performance Elastifirm Supplement: An all-natural, vegan formula containing the immune-stimulating, patent-pending blend Alasta developed to sustain youth and beauty from the inside out. A 30-day supply of 60 capsules is packaged in a compact, recyclable bottle.

For one week, I used the Revitalizing Serum and could immediately feel how the product would tighten my skin; it was especially effective for the under-eye area, which tends to be puffy for me. I wanted to use the product solo, but it's not moisturizing at all, so I had to pair it with a moisturizer both day and night. I honestly noticed that my skin looked brighter and somewhat more even in tone. I appreciated the all natural ingredients and oils, the latter of which you could smell. The product was never irritating to my skin. I'm working my way through the Elastifirm Supplements, but hard to tell if they're making a difference just yet. With the exception of one pimple, my skin has been make-up free for the past few weeks and my skin is rosy and perfectly clear; possibly due to the supplements? I'll follow up with a more substantial review on this one product in a few weeks.

The only drawback to these products is the high price tag. The serum and cream come in 1 oz. containers and run $80/each. (Note: Right now, both the serum and cream are on sale for $65; the supplement is on sale for $55; the trio costs $150).

I offered both products to my mother (50 y/o) to test and see if she, as a female with dry/sensitive/mature skin, would experience any dramatic results.

Review from my mother:
After using the serum and the cream for 2-3 weeks I did notice that my skin tone seems to be firmer and my laugh lines less pronounced. Initially, I broke out in three places on my forehead (I rarely break out) due to the Elasticity Cream, but my skin had stabilized within a few days and there have been no break outs. I really like the Elasticity Cream because of its strong moisturizing qualities; it lasts all day. I like the products and would recommend them to anyone who has sensitive skin and wants to improve their skin tone.

Overall, if I had the funds to splurge, I would. Using all three products together probably pack a powerful punch for one's skin not just because of their "green" properties but because they actually work.

Rave Review // Shikai Shower Gels

Shikai shower gels aren't the most luxurious shower gels, but that's not to say these aren't wonderful to use either. They lather up beautifully (a little goes a long way here!), so a 12 oz. ounce bottle of body wash lasts for quite some time. They're very affordable, ranging in price from $4-8.99 (found at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, drugstore.com).

From the Shikai site: "These are not your typical shower gels. They were actually created to moisturize dry sensitive skin ... while you bathe! Our formulas contain pure colloidal oatmeal which soothes skin and leaves rough, chafed areas smooth and soft. And they smell sooo good!"

Ingredients for French Vanilla scent (ingredients don't vary much; sans parfume in fragrance-free): purified water (aqua), aloe barbadensis gel*, TEA lauryl sulfate, cocoamide DEA, laurethsulfosuccinate, cocoamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, colloidal oatmeal (avena sativa)*, guar powder, salt (sodium chloride), citric acid, diazolidinyl urea, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexyl glycerin, natural fragrance (parfum).

They do have great scents (seven scents, one fragrance-free) though they don't linger on the skin post bathing. While in the shower, these gels leave the skin super soft and smooth. I wish it kept my skin moisturized more following my showers, but you're not left dry and flaky either; lotion is optional. I love that they don't irritate my skin whatsoever. Shikai is one of my favorite shower gel brands now. I've used the French Vanilla and the Apricot Rose scented body washes; am looking forward to trying more scents.

Solid Review // Clinique & Estee Lauder

3-6-09 Update: For me personally, these products work best coupled with other products if you need more "oomph." For example, the Clinique Moisture Surge paired with Aveda's All Sensitive Moisturizer offers a perfect, velvet feeling to the face and lots of moisture without the shininess.

Disclaimer: I didn't pay a dime for these two products. They were being given away due to a lawsuit against Nordstroms and Macy's.

I'm pleased with both these products, but would I pay for them voluntarily? No. That being said, there's nothing terrible at all about Clinique's Moisture Surge moisturizer or Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair serum - except for the prices. Moisture Surge, 2.5 oz., $46.50. Advanced Night Repair, 1 oz., $85.00. Obviously, these are big brands, but a woman on a budget, like myself, can't afford such luxury that's not completely out of this world.

Clinique Moisture Surge: This is a fragrance-free oil-free gel for the face. It goes on smoothly, making your skin feel like velvet. It's great for my sensitive skin; it calms it down beautifully. It absorbs quickly, giving a matte look that allows for the perfect canvas for make-up; I love that I never get shiny over the course of the day when I wear this. Unfortunately, despite claiming to be ultra hydrating, I don't feel it lives up to its own hype; it doesn't feel as moisturizing as I would prefer, especially during the winter. Now, for summer, I think this would be a great product for someone with dry skin, like myself. This is probably a better product for normal and/or oily-skinned people year-round.

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair: No irritation with this light serum. It claims to help repair the appearance of any damage, age and environmental factors. It sinks into the skin quickly and hydrates well enough. At my age (26) it's tough to say I can see myself looking younger, but I'm sure it's helping all the same. Using this product in conjunction with the Moisture Surge offers a double dose of healing and hydration.

Overall, both very nice products, effective but not overwhelmingly so for the cost.

Solid Review // Aubrey Organics Rose Mosqueta Moisturizer

3.6.09 Update: Another product that's flawless when paired with another. When I use this product with Jojoba oil (or, probably, any oil), it sinks right into the skin, smooth as silk, jam-packing my skin with moisture, giving it a glow.

I really like the Aubrey Organics Rose Mosqueta Rose Hip Moisturizing Cream (4 oz. for $16.28). I picked this up at Whole Foods when I was searching for a hydrating facial moisturizer. It delivered in full and without any irritating side-effects at all. In fact, this rich cream not only moisturizes all day and night, it calms my skin immediately! I'm truly impressed by how this product has helped to improve my complextion. Also, the rose scent is beautiful and rich, and I enjoy being able to smell this product on my face post application. Ingredients are: Coconut Fatty Acid Cream Base, Organic Aloe Vera, Horsetail Extract, Coltsfoot Extract, Coneflower Extract, Organic Rosa Mosqueta® Rose Hip Seed Oil, Calendula Oil, St. John's Wort Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Aubrey's Preservative (Citrus Seed Extract, Vitamins A, C and E), Nettle Extract, Bitter Almond Oil.

My complaints are extremely mild. First, the texture is very thick and paste-like, and you have to take the time to massage it fully into your skin or else there's bound to be leftover cream on the surface of your skin. Secondly, I've found that it's not great for daytime use because of the abundant oils which causes my face to be shiny by mid-day. So, I just use it as a night cream, which is just fine. All in all, it's a must-have for dry to very dry skin, especially during the winter.

Sensitivity to Desert Essence Facial Toner

Toners have always been hit & miss with my sensitive skin. I appreciate the extra moisture they provide, as well as the ability to remove any last traces of make-up after washing my face. But, a good toner is tough to find, and my latest purchase is no exception. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend the Aloe Vera Complexion Toner & Refresher from Desert Essence, which I picked up at Whole Foods. I thought it was a winner: It's non-alcoholic, moisturizing, removes impurities and full of natural ingredients. But, at least one of the ingredients was too strong for my skin, causing my skin to flush rosy and get hot. It didn't make me break out in any way, but the heated sensation it caused was a red flag.

I used the product over the course of a week, and sometimes the irritation wasn't so bad. But, regardless, a product appropriate for my skin wouldn't cause any kind of uncomfortable feeling. I've posted reviews of a couple other toners that caused this exact reaction to my face (Alba and Avalon Organics brands), and I'm disappointed that this is the third toner that hasn't meshed well with my skin. Those with normal or acne-prone skin, especially, would probably fare well instead.