Tag Archives: sensitive skin

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

Posted in Body, Face, Hair, PRODUCT REVIEWS | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Man Code: Flawless Crowns on Spencer & Devon Shaving Cream

Hey Rosés and Cognacs,

The Man Code series features topics and news in men’s grooming and lifestyle
recommended by male tastemakers

 

Ladies, forward this post to your favorite guy…this session is for the men! Some of my loyal male readers reached out asking for products and advice made specifically for their masculine needs. Since this site is dedicated to all types of unique skin, I was more than happy to strike up the conversation. To ensure the very best, I reached out to some male bloggers, editors, brand managers, and good ol’ product junkies to offer their opinions on men’s grooming.

Up first is Martin Jean of Flawless Crowns, a site dedicated to “Luxury Fit For A King.” Let’s see what he recommends for the royal gents:

Tell us about Flawless Crowns

Flawlesscrowns.com is an online gentleman’s luxury destination dedicated to celebrating the king in all of us. We cover cigars, wines & spirits, fashion, travel, and more.

Flawless Crowns speaks to the modern male who shares a goal in excellence and can appreciate quality throughout all sectors of the living the good life.

Flawlesscrowns.com showcases the products and services available from the most prestigious luxury brands around the globe, but also provides its sophisticated readership with detailed insight into a range of these subjects, which include luxury automobiles, yachts, travel, fashion, fine watches, art, wine, state-of-the-art home electronics and much more.

For connoisseurs seeking the very best that life has to offer, Flawlesscrowns.com remains the essential luxury resource.

Tell us about yourself

Martin Jean is a true gentleman of leisure who fancies unique style, cigars, wines & spirits, travel and more. He is the founder of gentleman’s lifestyle site www.FlawlessCrowns.com that caters to the tailored and well groomed.

Do you have any skin concerns or allergies?

Sensitive skin and razor bumps. Allergic to heavily artificially scented products.

What product do you recommend for men?

Spencer & Devon Shea Butter Premium Shaving Cream (Unscented)

Spencer & Devon Shaving Cream is a product that is perfect for me due to the texture and main ingredients. This unscented version has a nice body to it as when I apply it to my face, I feel the weight of it is sufficient to protect my skin but it isn’t too heavy. The main ingredient is Aloe Vera which is a natural substance that is great for your skin. Additionally the razor glide motioned with ease against this product.

Purchase Price: $27.50
Purchase Location: www.spencerdevon.com

What are your tips for a clean shave?

The best way to open up your pores is with a hot shower or hot towel. Utilize a pre-shave oil on your face that will form a protective barrier between the blade and the skin. Apply the shaving cream in a circular motion to move your facial hair around and lift it up which will help your blade be more effective. Shave downwards to lower the hair and then lather again with shaving cream and shave upwards for a closer finish. Clean your face off with cold water and use some after shave balm to hydrate your face. Smile.

 

What’s the one product you can’t live without?

Frederick Benjamin Hair Care For Men

 

Get more luxury lifestyle tips and trends from Flawless Crowns:
www.FlawlessCrowns.com
Twitter: @FlawlessCrowns
Tumblr: www.FlawlessCrowns.tumblr.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Flawless-Crowns

 

Cognacs, what are your favorite men’s grooming products?

 

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

*All images via Flawless Crowns
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Phyto Universe Hair Care Celebrates Earth Day Everyday

Hey Rosés,

Event invitation via BeautySweetSpot.com

Last night, the French all-natural botanical luxury hair care line Phyto Universe, teamed up with The Nature Conservancy and Jeannine Morris, TV host and beauty editor of BeautySweetSpot.com, to celebrate Earth Week.

The oasis and private lounges at the Phyto Salon & Spa

Held at the luxurious Phyto Universe salon and spa in midtown NYC, which resembles a tropical oasis, the event spread awareness about the Nature Conservancy’s mission for land and water protection, and showcased Phyto’s green ingredients and recyclable containers.

Products include (L) The Nature Conservancy limited-edition Phytopolléine scalp elixir, and (R) PhytoSpecific shampoo and conditioner for curls, relaxed, and frizzy hair

Although I am a fond friend of the Phyto and PhytoSpecific hair care lines, this was my first time receiving a blowout in their salon. Their collection has a product for every need and sensitivity including dry hair, ultra dry hair, frizz, color treated, and even normal healthy hair. The ingredients are derived of pure plant extracts, 100% essential oils, and contain no silicones, parabens or synthetics, perfect for sensitive skin and allergies, and incorporates sustainable ingredients.

Treated to a relaxing scalp massage with Phytopolléine elixir
Image via David Bowers

At the event, Jeannine Morris greeted me with her signature smile, and introduced me to the Nature Conservancy’s cause and a variety of Phyto products. Then I was whisked away for a pre-wash oil scalp treatment massage with Phytopolléine elixir oil that works to stabilize moisture and PH, clear build up, and also protects ends from splitting.

Ron Williams washing and conditioning my hair with the Phytolisse collection
Image via David Bowers

Celebrity hair stylist Ron Williams then took me on a hair safari into my own private cabana. He shampooed and conditioned with Phytolisse smoothing shampoo and Phytolisse mask, and sealed in moisture with the Phytodéfrisant balm and Phytolisse serum, both heat protectants. All products from the Anti-Frizz collection.

 The finished product post blowout!

Ron blow dryed my curly poof into soft flowing tresses, and then gently bumped the ends with a flat iron to polish the look. I hardly recognized myself with straight hair, and I loved how soft, light and clear it felt!

Get your hair appointment with Ron Williams today, get customized products for your hair needs, or schedule a luxurious spa appointment, tell them Alicia from Champagne Beauty sent you!

Phyto Universe Salon & Spa
715 Lexington Avenue  New York, NY 10155
(212) 308-0270
www.phytouniverse.com

How are you celebrating Earth Week?

 

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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Spring Forward: All Day Moisture For Chapped Lips

Hey Rosés,

 

The Spring Forward Series provides tips and news for seasonal allergy sufferers to stay clear and beautiful during spring allergy season.

Nothing is worse than all over chapped skin during allergy season. A few weeks ago we explored 3 ways to keep your nose moisturized after sneezing, blowing and rubbing. This week let’s examine lips. Sneezing and constant tissue use can only lead to smeared lipstick and dry lips, and if you’re like me, you are desperately looking for a way to pucker up without drying out.

Below are 3 tools to keep your lips smooth and lipstick put all day during allergy season:

 

Lush Mint Julips Lip Scrub

Purchase: $8.95 lushusa.com

Prep lips by exfoliating off dead skin with Lush Cosmetics’ handmade all natural vegan sugar scrub. Massage lips with a pea sized amount, and you can even lick it off instead of rinsing. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and the peppermint will make your lips refreshed and tingle.

Ingredients: Castor Sugar , Organic Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis) , Vanilla Extract (Vanilla planifolia) , Tagetes Oil (Tagetes minuta) , Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita) , *Limonene , Flavor

 

Revlon Colorstay Just Bitten Lipstain + Balm

Purchase: $8.99 ulta.com

Use this dual-ended lipstain and balm to apply long lasting color and nourishing translucent balm. The lipstain will last through sneezing, weezing and even coffee, without smearing or feathering. The marker can give a sheer look or increase intensity for full color, and both the stain and balm can be used alone or together.

Lip Stain Ingredients:  Water, Ascorbyl Glucoside, VP/Methacryalamide/Vinyl Imidazole Copolymer, Alcohol Denat., Fragrance, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2 Hexanediol.  May Contain: [+/-:  Red 33 (CI 17200), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Red 28 (CI 45410), Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Blue 1 (CI 42090))].
Balm Ingredients:  Octyldodecanol, Polybutene, Polyethylene, Synthetic Beeswax, Mica, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Oleate, Citric Acid, Benzoic Acid.

 

Burts Bees Tinted Lip Balm

Purchase: $7

Keep lips smooth with a hint of color with an all natural tinted lip balm. Gentle ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax are perfect for allergy-prone and sensitive lips. Great for light coverage during the day, the color is super sheer and can be worn underneath lipstick or worn alone.

Ingredients: cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, olus (vegetable oil, huile vegetale), cera alba (beeswax, cire d’abeille), olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, candelilla cera (euphorbia cerifera wax, cire de candelilla), helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, aroma (flavor)*, lanolin, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, ricinus communis (castor) seed oil, cananga odorata flower wax, jasminum officinale (jasmine) flower wax, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, tocopherol, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, glycine soja (soybean) oil, canola oil (huile de colza). May contain: alumina, CI 77891 (titanium dioxide), CI 75470 (carmine), CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (iron oxides). *natural flavor

How do you keep your lips moisturized during allergy season?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

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