Tag Archives: acne

Product Review: April Birchbox

Hey Rosés,

For April’s Birchbox, our favorite monthly beauty sample subscription service provided products with Mother Earth’s stamp of approval. Eco friendly and non-toxic beauty and lifestyle products to celebrate Earth Week.

Let’s take a look at this compilation of natural ingredients that even includes laundry detergent!

Juice Beauty Oil-free Moisturizer

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles


 

This oil-free moisturizer is part of Juice Beauty’s Blemish Clearing Collection that uses naturally derived ingredients to combat uneven skin, blemishes and acne, even for sensitive skin and allergies. I could feel the rich difference of it being loaded with high levels of fruit juice rather than water. The moisture lasted all day without extra touch-ups for my dry skin, and my skin felt flexible without any shine.

Ingredients: Organic juices of pyrus malus (organic apple juice)*, vitis vinifera (organic white grape juice)*, punica granatum (organic pomegranate juice)*, aloe barbadensis (organic aloe leaf juice)*, organic botanical extracts of cucumis sativus (organic cucumber extract)*, taraxacum officinale (organic dandelion leaf extract)*, salvia officinalis (organic sage leaf extract)*, melissa officinalis (lemon balm leaf extract), vegetable glycerin, caprylic/capric triglyceride, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, panthenol (Vitamin B5), tocopherol (Vitamin E), algae extract, ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C), ethylhexyl (octyl) palmitate, cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl glucoside, sodium PCA, hyaluronic acid, xanthan gum, sodium hydroxide, phenethyl alcohol (sage derived), citrus aurantium (sweet orange & petitgrain) and cinnamomum camphora (ho wood) pure essential oils *certified organic by a USDA approved agency

 

Zoya TRUE Spring Collection Nail Polish in Tru

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

 

 

This metallic light grape red-toned purple is bold enough to wear year-round. The gold shimmer gives color-changing red and orange effects in the light. Zoya is a great non-toxic brand free of formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, and camphor which can easily irritate skin. With 2 coats and top coat, this color lasted 9 days before serious chipping.

Ingredients: N/A

 

Wonderstruck Taylor Swift Perfume

Champagne Rating: 3 out of 5 bottles

 

 

Similar to Taylor Swift, this is a fun, light and girly scent. It has an aura of flowers and fruit, perfect for daytime and weekend flair, but I wouldn’t recommend for evening or date night.

Ingredients: N/A

 

amika Obliphica Nourishing Mask

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

 

 

I love this deep conditioner! A creamy sensation made with natural ingredients that left my scalp clear and each hair strand fully hydrated. The Moroccan argan olil and obliphica oil nourish strands in this sulfate and paraben free formula. After using this as a deep conditioning treatment I was able to go three days without added water or product, and it kept its moisture without added frizz.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetyl alcohol, Cetearyl alcohol, Cetrimonium chloride, Panthenol, Behentrimonium chloride, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) seed oil, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene glycol, Argania spinosa kernel oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Hippophae rhamnoides (Obliphica) oil, Ascorbic acid, Citric acid

Dropps Laundry Detergent

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

 

 

These eco-friendly individual laundry detergent packs are easy to toss in the washer. The ingredients are fabric friendly, excluding the enzymes used in typical detergents that can damage colors and fabrics. They also make dye and scent free for sensitive skin.

Ingredients:
Fresh Scent
Laureth (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Polxoxyethylene Oleyl Ether (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Propylene Carbonate (Progessing Agent), Hexylene Glycol (Processing Agent), Agua (Water)
Scent + Dye Free
Laureth – 7 (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Polyoxyethylene Oleyl Ether (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Ipa (Progessing Agent), Hexylene Glycol (Processing Agent), Agua (Water)

 

What are your favorite eco-friendly products?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

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Product Review: mybody Skincare and Chemical Peel

Hey Rosés,

A few weeks ago I attended the launch party for mybody’s newest product, NECK-CESSITY at Dr. Pearlman’s. This at home anti-aging treatment works to revitalize dark spots and signs of aging specifically on your neck and décolletage. It minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and creasing, while also smoothing uneven textures and firming skin. Launched in April 2012 it is now available through select dermatologists and skincare professionals featured on the website.

 

L to R: Founders Therese Clark, David Watson, Christine Watson

mybody was founded by makeup artist Therese Clark, Harrods executive Christine Watson, and skincare pioneer David Watson (co-founder of Philosophy, so you know it’s good stuff!). They have a full collection of products that can be mixed and match to create a customized regimen to treat acne, sensitive skin and anti-aging. These hidden treasures are dispensed by skincare professionals only, but you can find authorized retailers on their website www.lovemybody.com

 

While at the party I had my first chemical peel ever! The “myProbiotic Peel” is a trademarked non-invasive chemical peel that essentially tricks the body into thinking it’s injured so it will produce natural wound healing defense peptides. As someone whose face has fallen off from many products, I was certainly hesitant, but this peel was even gentle enough for my eczema and reaction-prone skin. It did not burn, sting or leave any redness or peeling that day, or the next, or even the day after next! In fact, its nickname is “The Lunchtime Peel” because you can literally get it done in 15 minutes then go back to work, no hiding and no intensive recovery time needed.

 

Along with the myProbiotic peel and NECK-CESSITY is the full collection of paraben-free cruelty free at home treatments. Below, my review is for the sensitive skin line, which I highly recommend for all seasons, skin types and ages.

 

Step 1: Clean Routine Revitalizing Foaming Cleanser

Champagne Rating: 5 out of 5 bottles!

 

 

 

First of all, I appreciate when a large collection has clearly labeled the steps in order (and time of day) and named the products for what they actually do! This creamy cleanser serves as a makeup remover, cleanser and toner all in one, even removing eye makeup and foundation.

Step 2: Beat the Rush – Anti-Redness Treatment

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

 

 

Rosacea and acne sufferers rejoice! A hydrocortisone free (reduces risk of irritation) serum that soothes inflammation from blemishes, sunburn, and heat rash. It also reduces redness and the appearance of rosacea triggered flushing and blotchiness. This will be my go-to during summer’s unforgiving heat blasts.

 

Step 3: Safety Blanket – Gentle Hydrating Lotion

Champagne Rating: 5 out of 5 bottles!

 

 

One pump of this cross between a light cream and rich lotion will actually wrap your face in a calming blanket. It was a great layer of protection without being too heavy, and did not irritate when directly applied to my eczema. I would recommend full application at night, and a lighter pump or spot treatments for daytime use.

 

Step 4: Protect & Serve – Tinted SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

Champagne Rating: 3 out of 5 bottles

 

 

This oil-free silicone based moisturizer is lightweight and non-reactive for all skin types. The tint only comes in one color, which left a gray shadow on my face. I was able to use it as a primer but had to layer on warm-toned powder to even my skin out.

All products are distributed by physicians and skincare specialists, you can can easily locate participating partners through their physician: www.lovemybody.com/physician

 

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

 

*All images via mybody
*Ingredients not available at time of post
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Get The Look: Styled by June Series Premiere

Hey Rosés,

Welcome to the Juniverse…

 

 via Vh1

Last night, celebrity stylist and NYC-based fashion icon June Ambrose, debuted her new show on Vh1 “Styled By June.” Known for dressing A-listers like Jay-Z, Kelly Ripa and Rihanna, the “Curator of Style” is also a trendsetter in her own right, popularizing the turban and head-to-toe color blocking.

(2nd L to R) Rachel Roy, June Ambrose, Mischa Barton, and Byrdie Bell via StyleBistro

Her reality show not only highlights the celebrities she styles, but it also gives us a glimpse into the various roles a fashion stylist plays, from glam squad to therapist to cheerleader. In episode one, June’s mission is to re-brand starlet Mischa Barton (from tv show The OC) from being a paparazzi princess into a red carpet queen. As Misha is preparing to launch her new handbag line, June carefully crafts a comeback, sending her to red carpet events like the Style360 party and front row at the Naeem Khan Spring 2012 New York Fashion Week show. At the end of the episode, she not only successfully thrusts Mischa back into the spotlight, she taught us how to shop in our closets and quickly fix wardrobe malfunctions.

(L to R) Rachel, June, Eli

June’s professionalism and straight-forward persona is balanced by her dramatic assistants: socialite Rachel Heller, and the ambitious duke of one-liners Eli Wasserman… “I can be your best girlfriend or that yeast infection that doesn’t go away.” *blank stare*

The best accessory of the night was June’s amazing color spectrum of lips! Check out how to recreate her day to night looks with these allergy-friendly lip lovers:

 

Muted Brick Red Lips

Recommended: Clinique Long Last Lipstick in Red Red Red

Purchase: $15 bloomingdales.com

The Clinique brand is continuously tested for allergic reactions, and great for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Muted red lips will take you from daytime power moves to evening dance moves.

Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (castor) Seed Oil, Euphorbia Cerifra (candelilla) Wax\Candelilla cera\Cire de Candelilla, Isopropyl Palmitate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/ Hexastearate/ Hexarosinate, Octyldodecanol, Diisostearyl Adipate, Microcrystalline Wax\Cera Microcristallina\Cire Microcristalline, Ceresin, Ozokerite, Triticum Vulgare (white bran) Extract, Olea Europaea (olive) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Lecithin, Linoleic Acid, Tocopheryl Linoleate/Oleate, Octyldodecyl Myristate, Cholestrol, Glyceryl Rosinate.

 

Matte Pale Pink Lips

Recommended: Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Pink

Purchase: $23 barneys.com

For a soft daytime look go with a pastel or pale pink colored lipstick. A matte texture will tone down the shine so you don’t actually look like a Barbie doll.

Ingredients: N/A

 

Sheer Nude All Season Lips

Recommended: CoverGirl NatureLuxe Gloss Balm SPF 15 in Clay

Purchase: $5.99 drugstore.com

This moisturizing balm is from Cover Girl’s natural collection. You can apply a nude color or get a subtle hint of color while your lips are protected from the sun with SPF 15.

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate (7%)
Inactive Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor Seed) Oil (Castor), Lanolin Oil, Polybutene, Lanolin, Ozokerite, Oleyl Alcohol, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla Cera) Wax (Candelilla), Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Paraffin, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter (Cocoa), Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter (Mango), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit (Shea), Fragrance, Glyceryl Oleate, Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut), Propylparaben, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Propylene Glycol, May Contain (+/-):, Titanium Dioxide, Yellow 5 Aluminum Lake, Red 6 Lake, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride (CI 77163), Red 7 Lake, Red 27 Lake (CI 45410), Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090), Carmine (CI 75470)

 

What was your favorite look on Styled By June?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

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Beauty News: Benefit Cosmetics, Sephora Beta, New iPad

Hey Rosés,

Here is a chilled glass of beauty news and announcements…

 

Benefit Cosmetics Brings Back “Boo Boo Zap”

Benefit re-releases its best selling pimple diminisher Boo Boo Zap. This clear liquid goes on light enough to wear under make-up during the day, and is great for drying out pimples without drying out all of the skin around it. It also lessens the redness and swelling of zits, furthermore decreasing the chance of scarring. Apply this medicated treatment multiple times a day, perfect for sensitive skin, acne and uneven skin tones.

Purchase: $16 benefitcosmetics.com

Ingredients: Active Ingredients / Ingredients Actifs : 0.5% Salicylic Acid
Other Ingredients / Autres: Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Glycolic Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Bisabolol.

 

Screenshot of Sephora beta site homepage

Sephora Sends Private Preview Invites For New Beta Site

For the last few weeks, Sephora has been sending out private links to select customers for access to the new beta website. For those not in the tech world, a beta launch is essentially a preview, where a select group can test the site, provide feedback and identify any bugs before the full site is released. Without giving too much away, the new site is sleeker and has a cleaner layout. The product finder and search capabilities are more intuitive, including a new in-store inventory look up – which is clutch during new releases and holidays when you need that last eye shadow palette for your mom!

Conflicting reports say the new full site will launch in a few weeks up to later this year, so sign up for a launch announcement here.

 

 

Apple Releases The New iPad

In case you hadn’t heard, the new iPad was released in stores on Friday! Customers lined the sidewalks and camped out in front of stores to get first dibs on the enhanced features like a 10-hour battery life. This new iPad has a retina display which is great for dissecting colors in those digital editions of fashion and beauty magazines, and a 5MP iSight Camera with editing capabilities which can capture vibrant pictures at events and Fashion Week.

Purchase: starts $499 apple.com

 

What is your favorite iPad beauty or fashion app?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

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4 DIY Beauty And Body T’ings From Jamaica

Hey Rosés,

 

Last week I got an early start to spring with a long weekend in Jamaica. Whiskey Ginger surprised me with a trip to the turquoise seas and white sand beaches of Negril! While relaxing on the beach and doing my best dutty wine at night, I was inspired by all of the natural beauty around me, and determined to recreate at home.

Take a look at 4 beauty and body t’ings I found in Jamaica and how to do-it-yourself at home:

 

1. Sand Exfoliates Your Feet

After just 5 minutes of walking on the sandy beach, my feet were transformed from Jack Frost dry to baby skin smooth. Even when we got our beachside massages, the dust of sand on our bodies mixed with oil called for a great body scrub.

 

DIY: Mix baking soda with your favorite face or body wash

Baking soda a.k.a. sodium bicarbonate is a product that can be used EVERYWHERE. In addition to exfoliating your skin, it’s known for clearing acne, balancing hair’s PH and removing dandruff.

 

 

2. Waterfall Mist + Humidity = Natural Moisture

At YS Waterfalls in the jungle, atop the hidden lagoons were beautiful small and large waterfalls cascading to underground springs. The soft mist from the falls gave my skin incredible moisture and kept it hydrated even while we hiked and rode the zipline.

DIY: Mix a few drops of witch hazel with water in a spray bottle

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that is nectar to anyone with eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. It cleanses and conditions skin without removing natural oils, and can even be used to refresh existing make-up.

 

3. Beach Hair Blowout

I LOVE my naturally curly hair at the beach. The humidity kept it soft and the sun air-dried it quickly. The strong winds gave my curls volume and actually stretched them out to new lengths. Even though I usually go for a smoother curls, I liked the ruffled look adding to my “curly hair don’t care” attitude!

DIY: Volume & Length: Mix a volumizing foam with your favorite curly/straightening cream and blowdry hair upside down

Attach a comb (straight hair) or diffuser head (curly hair) to your blow dryer. Flip your head upside down, lightly pull your curls or brush through your strands in sections as you blowdry. Gravity will stretch your curls “up,” giving the effect of more volume.

 

4. Soothe Heat Rash From The Heat Blast

Not only does the intense sun cause wrinkles, it can create itchy dry sun-burned patches “heat rash.” In just 3 days, my skin went from bronzed sun goddess to skin so sunburned and bumpy it looked like braille. To combat the sun’s damage ALWAYS use sunscreen, and to soothe any after-burns or rash, try this:

DIY: Buy an aloe vera plant and apply to burns

Nature is best served…natural. Throw out your store-bought aloe gel and get a potted aloe plant. Aloe can be a soothing ointment but also drying gel, so mix it with shea butter and a little water to make a lighter lotion consistency and use this under any lotions or make up. It will comfort your burns and provide a light primer.

 

Where is your next vacation?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

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