earth day 2011 feature: celebrating with mōksa organics

I am so honored to be celebrating Earth Day with a feature on mōksa organics.  The first thing you need to know about mōksa organics is they are so much more than soap!  Allow me to delight your senses and inform your mind.

I have to admit it's really kind of hard to find a starting point.  Founder Melanie Martin has created such a rich melange of goodness with mōksa that one wonders whether a feature about the brand should begin with the products or the philosophy and non-profits they hold dear to the heart.  Melanie exudes so much passion and energy about her company one can actually feel it warming the heart and soul through everything she seems to touch.

Melanie and Haskell, her husband, Owners/Founders of mōksa organics, sum it up this way:

"We make soap. But not just any soap. Because regular soap is plain ol' boring. We've created a clean revolution."

There's no bulk packaging, wasted materials or lists of ingredients a mile long or that contribute to environmental hazards here.  Their products contain ingredients you recognize as pure, simple, natural.  They are certified organic. They also use fair-trade whenever possible.  Melanie is quick to point out that their products never include palm oils.  Why? Commercial harvesting of palms for their oil is the leading cause of ecosystem's loss of habitat and deforestation.  mōksa organics' ingredients are chosen with the least amount of environmental impact.  Their packaging is tree free.  They use post consumer waste, recycled materials and no virgin plastics.

mōksa organics has received federally recognized certification as a carbon neutral company.  All of their offsets are used locally to purchase trees for Alachua Conservation Fund.  mōksa's mission is to be an active part of solutions for a sustainable future.  Let me reiterate, when they say they intend to play an "active" part, they mean it.  When I first contacted Melanie she was dashing off to a local Sierra Club meeting (she's a board member), where they were busily planning for a campaign launch about Bottled Water awareness.



Melanie at the lake behind her house

 Melanie couldn't have been more gracious about supplying me with information (and product) to showcase mōksa for Earth Day, a month/day she shares is her favorite.  As I've gotten to learn more about her, I can't think of anyone or any brand better to feature on Earth Day than Melanie and mōksa organics.  They are the epitome of Earth Day celebration.  And as you might expect, giving back is a huge part of what they do through mōksa. More on that in a little bit.

"Our products allow us to do what we love and it allows us to work with progressive people and groups that help minimize our (society's) impact on nature and our eco-system.  Our mission focuses on habitat preservation and conservation...soap helps us accomplish that.  That's why we call it soapy love."

Allow me to introduce you to some of mōksa's gorgeous products.  Let me set the scene for these by telling you when I opened the package of soaps, my office filled with the delicious scents of essential oils, as if it had been transformed into my own little mini spa.  The chemical reaction between us (soaps and me) had ignited.  It was destiny ... I was falling in love ... quickly.

Bohemian Forest
A blend of wintergreen and woodsy aromas for that Bohemian experience. Check out this ingredient list (and note the shortness): Organic oils of olive, coconut, soybean, castor, hemp, babassu, shea butter; blend of pure essentail oils; organic rosemary extract.

It's named after the beautiful Bohemian Forest, which has a beautiful, diverse eco-system (all mōksa soaps are named after a cool spot on the planet).  The environmental advocacy group that it's dedicated to:  Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment  (ATREE).  Based in India, ATREE does much in the field of research, outreach and conservation. Melanie says, "They are one of those hard working organizations that few people know about and they fly under the radar.  They have a huge emphasis on EDUCATION.  They need support."

Abbey Road
A blend of sweet orange, clove, vanilla and English tea blends will transport you without moving from your shower to the green fields and quaint villages of Britian. Abbey Road body bar is the perfect remedy for fighting off the blue meanies or just getting the grit of the man off your back!  No environmental significance, other than "peace and love" that is associated with the musicians that frequent Abbey Road Studios.

It's dedicated to Aaranyak, another small organization Melanie says flies under the radar and is in need of support for its wonderful contributions. Aaranyak's mission is to foster conservation of biodiversity in Northeast India through research, environmental education, capacity building and advocacy for legal and policy reform to usher a new era of ecological security.

Lavender Avignon
One small whiff of the perfectly balanced blend of lavender and vanilla and you're headed straight to France.  Sometimes you've just got to keep it pure and simple. Take a break from your daily routine, slow down, and enjoy the simplest of organic pleasures.

Named after the lavender fields in Avignon, France, this soap is dedicated to The Sierra Club: Suwannee-St. Johns Group. This is an organization very close to Melanie's heart.  Hear her passion as she elaborates here:

 "I'd like to try and explain. The Sierra Club has a very well known national name. What people don't know is that communities around the country have LOCAL chapters within the Sierra Club. This is HUGE! We (mōksa) believe in local first and foremost. Local is the base where change happens. These local chapters around the 50 states are comprised of Board Members that lobby, attend state meetings at capital headquarters, and are an environmental voice for their community with regards to city and county laws, development, preservation of state parks, etc. I proudly serve on the Executive Committee here in Florida. Our group covers 15 counties and our members have done so much to protect and preserve Florida's local and state environmental gems."

The theme Melanie most wants to convey is that Sierra Club functions as a whole because of all the hard work of thousands of local groups around the country. Local Sierra Club chapters need support. Hence, the dedication and proceed/profit dedication to the organization she hold near and dear to her heart through sales of Lavender Avignon.

But Are They Any Good?
All this looks and sounds great, right, but what of the products themselves ... are they lovely to use?
I'm not sure I can fully express in a blog post just how incredibly gorgeous these products are.  These are substantial, big bars of soap, not slivers of product.  They are 6.5 oz in weight and much more in essence.  The bars provide a rich, luxuriously creamy lather.  They all smell divine.  You know how generally you'll smell a few bars of soap on display somewhere and be able to come up with a favorite from the line?  Yeah, you can't do that with these - they're all amazing. The blends of the essential oils in each bar are spot on ... not too much of one or the other to overpower the senses.  It may sound cliche', but using these bars truly does lend the experience of washing in nature. 

I mentioned to Melanie that my face never felt cleaner than after using her soap (I tried Abbey Road first).  I had a healthy glow to my skin I haven't seen since I was in my 20's - shocking!  I hesitate to even call the bars soap as that conjures up thoughts of something drying to skin.  There is nothing in mōksa soap bars that are drying to skin.  I'm telling you, I can't wait to jump out of bed in the morning to wash my face.  When a bar of soap can do that for a mood (especially for a mood of one who is in NO way a morning person), that's saying something.

L-R: hand before body butter, mōksa organics Lavender Bergamot Body Butter, hand with body butter

Don't think mōksa's soaps are their only product worth salivating over.  I had the good fortume to also try their body butter in Lavender Bergamot. Omgosh!! The consistency is a firm yet somehow whipped texture of deliciousness.  Ya know, lab produced, synthetic, amalgamations of chemically infused products just cannot give you these same results: simple, pure, healthy.

Well, clearly you see I am completely enamored with mōksa organics and its founder, Melanie. But really, who wouldn't be?  Honest, pure, back-to-nature (literally) goodness handcrafted from a place of integrity and heart.  It's just a winning combination all around.

mōksa soaps retail for $6.50 a bar and body butters for $14 a jar.  You may also seek out their body oils, bath salts, t-shirts and totes (they are "revolutionary" he he!).  Please do yourself a favor and check out mōksa organics online; your skin and conscience will thank you!  Products by mōksa organics are also available online at nimli.com, bellafloria.com and other boutique retailers.  Enjoy! xo

REVIEW: Annmarie Organic & Natural Skin Care

When the first ingredient listed on a product label is love, you know you're in for some goodness. Annmarie Organic Skin Care doesn't disappoint. Using blends of natural oils and extracts to preserve her products, founder Annmarie Gianni stands firm on not using alcohol or chemicals in her line of pure, organic skincare. As a consumer, I appreciate that. A lot!

Frustrated with not being able to find products, even natural ones, without chemicals and harsh ingredients, Annmarie decided the only way she'd get them was to make them herself. She called upon the teachings of ancient cultures, herbalists and shamans to create products from what the earth provides us. Believing her products have innate healing energies that bring awareness and allow those who use her products to truly radiate their own natural beauty, she incorporates natural practices, ancient methodology and aromatherapy in her skincare line. In this, Annmarie Skin Care is designed to not only soothe your physical body, but also help shape your inner beauty by invigorating the soul. One need only gaze upon Gianni herself to see this inner beauty radiating outwardly. Her skin is gorgeous!

I had the opportunity to try a few of her products. True to the claim, these products are as soothing to the senses as they are the skin, and as such are a pleasure to use.




L-R: Aloe Cleanser, Ayurvedic Scrub, Neroli Toning Mist and Honey Coconut Mask

 Aloe-Herb Cleanser
This is a creamy, milky liquid in texture and appearance and smells delightfully of orange blossom. The blend of oil and extracts contains essential fatty acids, similar to those produced by the skin; it is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which help prevent and repair free radical damage. This is a very gentle cleanser (could be used with a Clarisonic for sure), and leaves skin refreshed, soft and moisturized. Key ingredients include organic aloe vera infused with lavender, calendula, hyssop, lemon balm, neem leaf, olive leaf, organic ruby grapefruit, lemon oil, green mandarin oil and extracts. I would think even the most sensitive of skins could use this without issue as it truly is just that gentle.

Ayurvedic Facial Scrub
This one took a little getting used to for me. It's very herbal and earthy in smell, which I generally enjoy, but this is a bit like using dirt on your face - yes, that earthy. The positive here is that it is loaded with fantastic ingredients: Moroccan Rhassoul Clay, fenugreek seeds, organic lavender, rosemary, lemon balm leaves, horsetail herb and more. It's a dry, powdery mixture that is mixed with either a bit of water or the Aloe-Herb Cleanser to concoct a paste, which is then gently massaged onto facial skin, neck, etc. The blend is designed to nourish and re-mineralize skin.

Neroli Toning Mist
This is a delightful toner that smells as lovely as it is effective. There are just two ingredients that make up this mist: love and pure organic neroli distillate (from orange blossoms). The mist is soothing, refreshing, and assists skin to return to balance.

Coconut Honey Mask
This is my star of the line. I looove this product. When you open the jar, is appears solid or like cold oil/wax would look. However, it is smoothe like a fine butter and blends to perfection onto the skin. It smells sweetly of coconut and honey, not too sweet, it's subtle. the product is so natural it's good enough to eat! The live enzymes nourish inside and out. It moisturizes skin like no other. I was truly impressed with the hydration and softness of my skin after the very first use. Honey is high in vitamin C, B vitamins and amino acids. It's also wonderful for dry elbows, knees and cracked heels and may be massaged in a left to soften without removing. It's a triumph in fabulous-ness!


I encourage you to learn more about Annmarie and her lovely line of organic skincare at her website.  Annmarie Organic Skin Care is available online at Renegade Health at through specialty retailers.  Most of her products retail for under $30 with the serums, oils and skincare sets available for a bit more.  Enjoy!

REVIEW: A Beautiful Life's Honey'do Shampoo & Conditioner

Are these adorable or what?

Award-winning boutique A Beautiful Life has launched a unique line of organic honey infused haircare.  Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner are sweet treats for the hair, imparting fantastic hydration, shine and manageability. 

The shampoo is sulfate and paraben free, so it doesn't lather immensely, which we all know by now is actually a good thing for hair!  It does, however, gently cleanse hair without stripping and its light formula smells subtly of tangerine - an ABL signature (their iconic All Nighter Hair Powder smells of tangerine loveliness as well).  The conditioner is thick in its honey bear bottle yet surprisingly light in texture.  It may be used as an instant conditioner or leave on a little longer for a deeply hydrating treatment.  I recommend turning the little honey bear conditioner upside down in the shower when storing as the conditioner will dispense easier.  I love how gentle these formulas are on my hair and how soft and shiny it leaves it.  As with most products I bring home that are worth their weight in gold, my daughter has "stolen" these gems for her own use. I've taken to have to hide them in my room (shhhhh!). Whatcha gonna do ...

Listen to some of the extracts in this 'poo/conditioner combo: ivy extract, rosemary extract, tangerine essential oil.  Both products are formulated with organic honey, which is what imparts moisture, shine, softness and manageability to even very dry hair.

These light formulas are a pleasure to use, sweetly sensory with their tangerine essence and a complete delight for hair.  Tony and Jennifer have hit it on the mark yet again.  Is there anything this power couple in beauty chicness can't do?

Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner retail for $16 each ($30 for the duo) and are both available exclusively through A Beautiful Life.  Check them out ... you'll be amazed at all the fun, gorgeous items this trendy boutique offers!

REVIEW: Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads

Could these clinical percentages be true? 100% increase in luminosity, 91% of panelists experienced reduced pore size, 87% noticed reduction in appearance of wrinkles and saw improvement in skin firmness, 70% saw dramatic reduction in skin discoloration and age spots! Really?

Yes, really!

I've not seen a product come along with these kinds of claims in clinicals in a long, long time.  The simple truth is, the product does what it says.  As such, it seems fitting to begin my review of Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads with the oomph of that backing - the clinical trial percentages.


CANE - as in sugar cane.
This is the source of Cane + Austin's pure, proven powerhouse ingredient: Glycolic Acid.
Known as the superstar of the AHA’s, Glycolic Acid is derived directly from sugar cane, and has the smallest molecular size (of any AHA) which enables it to work effectively both as an exfoliator and moisturizer.

Glycolic Acid goes under the damaged upper layers of skin and destroys the 'glue' which holds dead skin to the surface, removing the dead skin cells that clog pores, resulting in increased cellular turnover, a smoother more radiant complexion and overall a more youthful appearance.
Glycolic Acid yields a smoother, younger complexion, that is soft and dewey with fewer lines and wrinkles, reduced pore size, improved tone and texture and is clinically-proven to correct hyper-pigmentation and discoloration, effective in reversing sun and free-radical damage.
 
 

AUSTIN - as in Dr. Austin.
As both a dermatologist and dermatopathologist, Craig Austin, MD has set himself apart from many physicians in the field with a unique hybrid approach utilizing advanced clinical treatments, histopathology (the microscopic study of diseased tissue and cellular strcuture) with hands-on patient care.
 
With over 20 years experience, Dr. Austin is a leader in his field, sought out by both patients and physcians for his expertise and innovative approach to treatment.  His overall philosophy is founded on the premise of uncomplicated, straightforward proven practices that promote a lifetime of naturally healthy, beautiful skin.  He is an avid proponent of the use of glycolic acid to rejuvenate and correct a host of skin concerns.  Dr. Austin is Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology and Dermatopathology at two major dermatology programs in New York City: Mt. Sinai Medical School and St. Barabas Dermatology Residency Program. he has three offices in the New York area: Manhattan, Southampton and Dutchess County.
 
Ok, so we now know Dr. Austin probably knows his stuff.  (And, by the way, this isn't Dr. Austin's first foray into a skincare line; he's also the derm behind AB Skincare.) We've many times over been schooled in the goodness of glycolic acid (haven't you been reading For the Love of Beauty?). But, do the pads really live up to the hype?
 
 

L-R: Sun Spot Before and Sun Spot After 2 Weeks Use with Pads

Indeed they do!
I've been using the 10% Glycolic pads for two weeks now and am very pleased with the results. My forehead lines are less pronounced which is also a grand phenom, but I tell you, the result that has me singing Zippity Do-Da is the improvement in sun spot discoloration on my cheeks.  'Tis a funny tale (not really). I was in the car with my daughter the other day shopping for homecoming dresses, pulled down the sun visor to block the sun, got a glimpse of my cheek in the visor mirror, and, Holy Cow, saw a dime-sized sun spot on the left side of my face between my cheekbone and chin! Where the hell did that gremlin come from? And why hadn't I noticed it before?
 
It was that very night that I began using Cane + Austin Retexturizing Pads, with the specific hope of lightening that fella on my face.  It's working!  And not only is my face more even, more luminous, and less wrinkled in appearance, the texture is much improved as well - pore size minimized, skin is firmer, more plumped and youthful in appearance.  I like!
 

Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads not only contain 10% glycolic acid (the purest pharmaceutical grade available), they also include liposomal vitamins A, C, E, CoQ10 and antioxidants to protect skin from free radical damage.  This is a ONE STEP at-home treatment that exfoliates and retexturizes, while helping to rebuild collagen.  Witch Hazel helps to visibly tone and tighten skin. I noticed a slight tingle on application the first few days I used them, but nothing intolerable or irritating.  I think it is fair to say you can FEEL the power in the pads, which I believe to be a good thing!
 
I'm so impressed with these I have my son using the Cane + Austin Acne Treatment Pads now.  This version contains 5% Glycolic Acid and 2% Salicylic Acid with a powerful blend of liposomal vitamins A, C, E, CoQ10 and antiosidants to help gently exfoliate, assist in increasing cellular turnover, treat blemishes and blackheads, protect the skin from free radical damage, all while allowing skin to heal.  Those clinicals boast an impressive 100% effective result (as noted by panelists) in decreasing blemishes. We'll see how the pads work for him.
 
So where can you get them?  Cane + Austin Retexturizing Glycolic Treatment Pads and Acne Treatment Pads both retail for approximately $60 a jar (a 30 day supply) and are available at SpaceNK, Nordstrom, DERMAdoctor and Cane + Austin online.
 
 

Relic Soap Company: Divinely Created Artisan Soaps

I'm a bit of a homemade soap addict!  Give me the choice of something I can buy in a store and someone's handmade variety with goat's milk and essential oils and I'll take the latter every time.  I like the visual appeal, the aromas of homemade soaps, the feel of their usually creamy lather on my skin and just the notion that they've been made by someone's hand, tenderly, lovingly and creatively. 

I stumbled about a soap diva perusing etsy not long ago and decided I had to try this woman's soaps.  They called out to me ... haunted my dreams ... I could smell them before they even ended up in my order cart.

Allow me to introduce you to Relic Soap Company. 

Relic Soap Company is a family-owned business that specializes in creating a one of a kind natural artisan soap that nourishes the body and dazzles the senses. Their natural soaps are cruelty-free and vegetarian-friendly. Most are vegan. Each soap has a complete ingredient listing. Their soaps are NEVER tested on animals!

Each bar of soap is packaged in an American-made virgin cotton cloth bag ready for gift-giving or to scent your linens before use. One exception - their salt bars, which are phenomenal by the way, are sometimes too large for the bags and are packaged in attractive glassine bags when needed.

I had trouble deciding which to try, and so opted for Karen's "Any 4 Bars for $20" offer.  Wow! What an incredible deal!  These are nice, big bars of goodness, each having a distinct scent, feel, look, texture all their own and I'm loving every single one of them.

Here, a sampling depiction of some of the ones I ordered, but there are many more to choose from at Relic Soap Company:

FROTH SEA SALT BAR

The first in their line of sea salt bars. Relic Soap spared nothing in this bar - adding tons of spa-quality ingredients to it. The bottom blue layer is chocked full of detoxifying dead sea mud while the top blue layer contains vitamin-rich Atlantic Sea kelp to nourish your skin. While this bar sloughs off dead skin cells and polishes your body to a glow, it cleanses with conditioning coconut and olive oils and invigorates with a brisk blend of citrus, lavender, mints, and other herbs. Froth makes an excellent after-shave bar, making your legs look and feel magnificent! Their sea salt bars are an eco-friendly alternative since there's no plastic or glass packaging to recycle. 100% biodegradable and 100% natural! I'm aboslutely loving this one!
 
 

THAI LEMONGRASS

Karen blended crisp lemongrass essential oil with various citrus and earthy essential oils for a gorgeous stick-to-your-skin fragrance. To make this soap extraordinary, they layered each soap with four distinct, Indonesian-inspired ingredients. Enjoy vitamin-rich banana, smooth coconut milk, silky yet exfoliating adzuki bean and detoxifying green tea leaves. Oh my gosh, are you dying to try this yet? Yummmmmm.

LAVENDER MINT SEA SALT

Due to popular demand of their debut sea salt bar, Froth, Relic Soap expanded their line to include some of their popular conventional soap scents, and Lavender Mint was surely a favorite to many Relic Soap fans.  In this bar, they blend sweet lavender essential oil with peppermint and spearmint oils for an instant pick up. Banish the blahs while restoring your glow!

 
HIPPIE CHICK

This is the bar that first called me by name! I even waited a bit longer for the shipment so I could have a fresh batch of this soap in the order. I just couldn't wait to dive into its decadence; so as soon as my lovely package arrived, I drew the soap from its drawstring cloth bag, carried it with me to the bar whiffing its delightful aroma with every step, then took full advantage a nice long soak in the bar-created patchouli waters. Oh my gosh, it was orgasmic! 

Enough of my experience, though, here's what you can expect from Hippie Chick.  The official scent of the 60's, but better. They use aged, smooth patchouli oil for an amazingly warm aroma. Relic Soap colors this soap with mineral colorants and mica, not fake, articificial dyes. Ready to pull your hair out?  This is the bar to grab to be transcended to a place altogether peaceful. Ohm...

GARDEN SCRUB ARTISAN SOAP

"If this bar doesn't get you clean, you're not doing it right!" was proclaimed by one of their farmers market customers.

This bar may be a workhorse, yet equally lovely for its fragrance and beauty. Half a dozen various citrus oils team up with spearmint oil to degrease and refresh your skin after a hard day's work. Ground luffa, coarse ground corn meal, kaolin clay and poppy seeds offer astonishing scrub power. They add a sprinkle of vibrant blue larkspur petals to the top of each bar making this bar a gorgeous addition to anyone's soap dish.


Any wonder why I'm in love with this gem on God's green earth? Relic Soap Company bars come sweetly packaged in cloth drawstring bags and range from about 4.5 oz - 5 oz per bar. They're nice and big and long-lasting.  Each sells for around $6 or choose to buy 4 bars for $20. Visit Relic Soap Company online and be sure to "LIKE" them on their Facebook page as well!

FYI -- just a little note that Relic Soap is on vacay until 8/31, but they'll be back and ready to dole out their bars to you in no time flat! xo

Hot and Humid? Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof to the Rescue!

Living down here in the tropical (read: blistering hot and uncomfortably humid) climate of The Big Easy, it's a huge relief to find a deodorant that actually keeps one dry and fresh smelling. Yes, we're big enough to admit it; we get sticky, yucky and all perspiry just like the fellas do.  Can one have any control over that in 100+ degree weather?  Me thinks not.

I'd tried Secret Clinical Strength maybe a year or so ago and liked it very much, but I was intrigued to have gotten my hands on a Waterproof version to test over the summer.  Intrigued and pleasantly surprised, it turns out, as I find this version serves even better in the sweltering humid heat we have in New Orleans. 

Now I believe Secret actually recommends we apply this at night, however I've used it as I would any other anti-perspirant/deodorant and apply it in the morning before getting dressed.  The texture of the product is a bit "creamier" than regular solid deodorant.  It glides effortlessly on the skin.  It has been extremely effective in keeping me not only dry (a huge feat, I assure you down south) but odor-free, a blessed appreciation to be sure.

FAQ's - Secret Says:

What is Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof?
It's the latest in the Secret Clinical Strength boutique and contains an all-day formula that provides waterproof wetness protection. The advanced solid's H20Guard technology provides three layers of protection: clinically proven waterproof wetness protection, odor absorbing capsules that respond to humidity and heat, and skin soothing conditioners.

What's the difference between the Waterproof version and Secret's other Clinical Strength Deodorants?
The H20Guard's optimal level of a top-performing active ingredient that is robust and is not washed off by water (pools, rain, sweat). It has the optimal level of two ingredients that hard for water to remove yet still can be removed by typical soap or wash.  They hold to odor fighters on the skin even when skin gets wet and helps fight odor by absorbing them.

Allow me to include this little piece of goodness to those of you who want to know about removing something as strong as a clinical strength, even waterproof, deodorant from your delicate underarms while showering or bathing.  Tis a little jewel I discovered over a year ago that I still use to this day.  Clarsskin Underarm Cleanser contains chelating agents that effectively remove residue including the metallic salts, and uses no parabens, sulfates or DEA, etc. It's a "phenom" little product and I'm never without it in my shower! (read my review here for more information)

Awarded Best of Beauty by Allure, Secret's Clinical Strength products are available at mass merchandisers nationwide. You may also purchase Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof at a discounted price from drugstore.com, retailing at about $8.29 currently.

__________________________________________________

CURRENT DRUGSTORE.COM DEALS (8/21/10):

Instant Coupon: Buy 1 Gillette Venus cartridge and get a free Olay Quench Body lotion at drugstore.com. While supplies last.

Instant Coupon: Buy 1 Gillette Venus cartridge and get a free Olay Age Defying Body Wash at drugstore.com. While supplies last. 

New Customers – spend $25 at drugstore.com and get free shipping + a $50 Restaurant.com gift code! Offer ends 12.31.2010

New Customers: Receive $5 off $30 or $10 off $50 on your first non-prescription order!

REVIEW: Clarisonic Cleansing Systems

It's been a long time in the coming; yes, I know.  Thanks to b-glowing.com, old skincare diva here herself finally got hold of a Clarisonic Cleansing System.  b-glowing.com ran a contest not too long ago and I was the lucky and very appreciative winner! Yay ... good things do happen for those who wait - ok, well sometimes they do. LOL

Anyway, the point here is to share with you my experience with this award winning system.  And as you might expect, I'm blown away by the results the Clarisonic produces for my skin.  Having already put the cart before the horse, though, allow me to share with you just how the Clarisonic accomplishes the results it does.

Clarisonic developed the sonic technology proven to gently yet effectively loosen dirt and oil to clear pores. The Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth skin. In just 60 seconds a day, the micro-massage action cleans more than twice as effectively as manual cleansing.  This is why spas, dermatologists and celebrities rely on this technology for ageless skin!  Local dermatologists here in my area have taken to the radio in interviews raving about why this is a must-have item in a skincare regimen.  They use the Clarisonic in their treatment preparations with their clients in their offices and, even more telling, they use it on themselves as well!

The Benefits

• Removes 6x more makeup than manual cleansing (clinical trials performed)
• Leaves skin feeling and looking smoother
• Cleanses so well that products absorb better
• Gentle enough for twice daily use
• Helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes
• Helps reduce the appearance of visible pores

 
Visit sites via the internet and you'll find 5 star reviews pretty much across the board for the system.  It's just that good.  I admit I expected this system to perform miracles for my skin with all the hype out there.  I was afraid I might be disappointed; that I probably had unattainable expectations.
 
I have the Clarisonic Classic in Pink and it performed well past my expectations. So many things to say about it.  The ease of use is phenomenal.  Simply apply a little of your favorite non-abrasive cleanser (I'm using Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel and Philosophy Purity mainly) onto your face, press the power button on the Clarisonic brush, then let the system work its magic. You swirl the brush around your skin in circular motions. The brush signals you with a little beeping sound to alert you to move to different areas of your face - one side of face, other side of face, forehead, chin and neck ... it's truly idiot-proof.
 
Rinse your face with cool water and you'll be amazed at how fresh and clean your skin feels. I am.  I've had the system for a couple of months now and I cannot get over how improved the texture of my skin is, how smooth it is, my pores are smaller, the lines on my forehead are less pronounced and my skin just has a healthier appearance, a glow really.  I'm completely loving this system.  I can't imagine being without it now.  It's amazing how clean the skin feels after using it. The sonic action gently clarifies and revitalizes the skin without the harsh chemicals or abrasion found in some microdermabrasion treatments. The exfoliation and cleansing factors alone make this a must-have item. The long-term results received outweigh the cost investment many times over.
 
What's better my treatment serums and other products absorb much better now.  They don't sit on top my skin, they penetrate for more effective results there as well. It's wonderful!
 

More information for you

 

 

B-glowing has a vast assortment of Clarisonic Systems to choose from. They come in many colors, configurations and price ranges.  They also carry the Clarisonic cleansers, body products and replacement heads.  With their famous scarlet goodie bags filled with samples and trials of products and fantastic personalized customer service, this is a shopping experience one will savor for a long time.  Visit b-glowing for more information and to purchase your Clarisonic system today.


UPDATE: Throughout the whole month of August, receive 25% off any Clarisonic product at b-glowing.com with the code: AUG. Cheers, everyone! xo

REVIEW: Miracle Skin Transformer w/ SPF 20

A product that will hydrate, enhance, protect. That's what Miracle Skin Transformer with SPF 20 promises.  Do they deliver?  Let's check it out.

Miracle Skin Transformer is the brainchild of beauty industry pro Sarah McNamara. She has tapped into more than 15 years of experience in the corporate cosmetic and fragrance industry to bring the world the first product offered by MST Beauty New York. Over the course of her career, she has held senior-level beauty positions at Elizabeth Arden, L'Oreal, Unilever, Valentino and Fendi.  As the working mother of two young boys and an ambitious modern business woman, McNamara knows that busy, fashion-focused individuals need products that deliver instant results, without being complicated or artificial-looking or feeling.

MST Complex is a proprietary combination of natural active antioxidants, plant extracts and vitamins that hydrates, protects and enhances your skin.  This is a one-step application that instantly transforms your skin, leaving you with a smooth, radiant, airbrushed finish. Miracle Skin Transformer claims it's the first-ever, naturally derived silicone formulation with powerful protection and hydration benefits.  The formula includes an antioxidant rich hydrating base, weightless, luminous, buildable coverage and a powerful SPF 20 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

• Dermatologically tested
• Free of petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances, parabens, dyes, wax, mineral oils, and talcs
• 100% natural active ingredients
• Not tested on animals

Miracle Skin Transformer is specifically designed to improve skin's texture and pore size, evenly smooth out and help minimize the appearance of fine lines and reduce pigmentation imperfections, all with SPF 20 UVA/UVB protection.  The light, oil-free, anti-shine formulation is said to have an instant matifying effect on skin, offering buildable coverage that is ideal for daytime and nighttime high-definition looks.

MST hydrates, enhances and protexts skin with a unique combination of natural active antioxidants and vitamins. 

• Saw Palmetto Extract, derived from Saw Palmetto berries, is an all-natural, lipophilic (fat-dissolving), active ingredient that provides hydrating benefits. Rich in phytosterols, it moisturizes and soothes the skin.
• Passion Fruit is a natural ingredient derived from India. Rich in Omega 6 (fatty acids), it penetrates deeply into skin to deliver incredible nourishment, hydration and moisturization.  
• CO Enzyme Q10 helps increase elasticity and firms the skin while increasing cell renewal.  
• Vitamin K helps diminish vascular conditions such as dark circles, redness from rosacea and broken capillaries (including spider veins).  
• Vitamin A (retinyl palminate) is a skin renewal booster that energizes skin cells, kills off dead cells and produces fresh new ones, improves wrinkles associated with aging, may help promote the production of skin-building compounds, and exfoliates and renews skin. 
• Naturally Derived Silicones and Mica allow light to deflect off your skin, yielding a luminous radiance.  
• Naturally Derived Silicones give a velvety cushion to the skin, fill in fine lines and smoothe out and refine pore texture, leaving skin firmer, brighter and even-toned. Additionally, they protect skin from environmental pollution, cover pores' visibility, even out skin and provide a velvety feel.
• Mica, a mineral pigment in the form of pearls, gives skin uniformity and improves its texture and performance, resulting in a flawless finish.
• Color Minerals (iron oxides minerals) give the product a fine tinted coverage (available in four shades) that adapts to virtually all skin tones.

• Ecophysalis, a natural plant extract found in the Brazilian rainforest, acts as an environmental shield to immediately reduce the redness and inflammation associated with stress, pollution and climate extremes. EcoCert Certified (that's huge by the way!!) and excellent for environmentally sensitized skin, Ecophysalis helps prevent rosacea and repair broken capillaries, protects from photo-aging, decreases melanin synethesis (pigmentation from sun damage), delivers anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits and helps increase skin tone luminosity and provide uniformity.
• Anti-oxidant Vitamin E, encapsulated for slow release using state-of-the-art technology, is vital in protecting skin from ultra-violet light, pollution and free radicals.
• SPF 20/UVA/UVB provides broad spectrum protection in a lightweight, oil-free formulation that has been tested using FDA guidelines and regulations.

  

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

(Click photos to enlarge for better detailed viewing)

MY REVIEW:

Ok, first let me say I was extremely skeptical that this product was going to be a one-product/multi-purpose wonder.  I agreed to review the product envisioning that it may, perhaps, act as a nice primer for my medium-full coverage foundation I generally need to wear.  If it also happened to provide some hydration so that I wouldn't have to use a moisturizer or if it included the SPF so I could skip the sunscreen step, those would be extra benefits. I've used these kinds of tinted moisturizer, SPF-included, go 'head skip the primer type products before and they've never given me the finished flawless complexion I've wanted. 

So I am wow'ed! Miracle Skin Transformer not only gives me the priming, the SPF and the hydration, it gives me coverage.  I really need to re-state that, though, as I'm not sure it covers so much as, true-to-its-name, transforms my skin to even, flawless perfection. Yes, it is a miracle! I'm in my early forties, ladies and gents, and using a product, one product, that not only gives me the skincare benefit, but also covers my redness, reduces visibility of pores and fine lines, and produces a smooth, luminous, even-toned complexion is unheard of. MST has a creamy whipped texture and blends so easily. I'm squeeling with joy over this product!  I've literally cut down my morning routine, just in face product application, by probably abount 10 minutes.  That's ten extra golden minutes of sleep, coffee grabbing and kissing my babies goodbye in the morning. I not only enjoy that; I appreciate that!

Shade of TAN: before (left) after (right)

Shade of MEDIUM: before (left) after (right)

When I received the samples and saw the color of the product, how dark the tint was, I immediately thought there was no way it would work on my fair NW20 skin.  It does!  It blends so thoroughly and flawlessly that I can even make the Tan shade work on my skin - some feat.  All I need is a little concealer for the inner corners of my undereye dark circles and the Miracle Skin Transformer (no foundation, no setting powder even), and I'm set to go. This is a product that also gets better as it absorbs and blends into skin, so the benefits you see after initially applying the product get even better after 15 minutes or so go by.  It's truly amazing!

The only drawback I can find with Miracle Skin Transformer is that it is so hydrating and luminous that I do like to apply a matte lotion prior to applying the MST.  This is personal preference.  I just felt my skin was a little too dewey, if that can be construed as a complaint, for my own personal liking. I've been using REN Hydra Calm Day Cream, but you could also use Cosmedicine Medi-Matte, Clarins Hydra Matte or another of your choosing if desired.

COMPARISON PRODUCTS

Some products Miracle Skin Transformer remind me of include:

Philosophy Supernatural Poreless Flawless w/ SPF 15

MST is better in that it gives a finish that is much more natural in finish than the orange-y tint of poreless flawless; it is also smoother in application, blends better into skin and provides better luminosity.

Colorescience Wild to Mild Skin Bronzer/Line Tamer Combo

Again, I like MST better because of how natural this finish is, how well it evens my skin's tone, the blendability of the formula, and the luminosity it gives my skin.

Here's a video review if you'd like to see and hear more about Miracle Skin Transformer. The video was created by YouTube user AMommaoftwo.

MST Beauty New York is offering free sample tubes (5 ml) to those who would like to try it.  For more information on ordering your sample, visit Miracle Skin Transformer online.

Miracle Skin Transformer with SPF 20 is set to launch the first of week of August 2010 and will retail for $48 a full-size tube. I will definitely be ordering the full-size tube as this product has impressed me beyond belief. Enjoy xo