Shed Happens: Time to Ditch the Post-Summer Snake Skin with La Rosee, Tree Hut and Ecotools!

That perfect summer skin glow - lovely while it lasts, but eventually the flip-flops come off, the air gets drier and suddenly your skin is less “radiant goddess” and more “why do I appear to be shedding?!” 

 

Yep, it’s that time of year when summer’s glow starts giving way to patchiness, flakes and general scaly-snake behaviour. The skin on your body naturally sheds dead cells more slowly than the skin on your face, so unless you’re actively auditioning for a reptile documentary, a little manual exfoliation can go a long way. Here are a few of my favourite ways to get that smooth, soft skin back in the game:

 

La Rosée Nourishing Body Scrub - 200g - $40

 

This is exfoliation with a side of dessert. Made with sugar and organic plant oils, this 100% natural scrub buffs away dead skin cells and impurities while nourishing your skin at the same time. The thick sugar texture leaves skin feeling wonderfully soft, smooth and comfortable, while the warm coconut-vanilla scent makes the whole experience smell suspiciously like something I should be eating. 

 

It’s also formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin and the biodegradable, vegan formula is refillable. The refill capsule saves 73% plastic compared with buying a whole new jar, so your skin gets pampered and Mother Earth gets to unclench a little. Win-win. Not to mention saving you a few bucks - the refill will only set you back $34 for 200g!

 

It’s part of the La Rosée Soft Skin Routine, which also includes the Cleansing Shower Oil - 400ml - $31 - which is refillable too, and the Nourishing Care Oil - 100ml - $46. I particularly love the oil because it can be used on your face, body and hair - basically one bottle doing the work of three while the rest of your bathroom products look on nervously...

 

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca and larosee-cosmetiques.ca.

 

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub in Raspberry Fizz - 510g - $17.59 

 

If you prefer your exfoliation to smell like a fruity cocktail rather than a skincare lab, Tree Hut has entered the chat. The Raspberry Fizz scent is a deliciously sweet mix of juicy raspberry, rose and a hint of amber, that lingers long enough to make you wonder why you bothered putting on perfume. 

 

Made with sugar, shea butter, raspberry seed oil and chia seed oil, it buffs away dull, dry skin while helping leave it feeling soft, smooth and nourished. It’s also vegan, paraben-free, sulfate-free and alcohol-free, with a no-slip formula -  because the only thing we want slipping in the shower is our dignity after attempting to shave one leg. 

 

The Raspberry Fizz is my fave but there are also tons of other scents to choose from - I’m also partial to Tangerine and Peach Sorbet - because you know, fruit - but there are some non-fruit ones too if you like that kind of thing. And if you want to turn your shower into a full-blown Tree Hut production, you can round out the routine with their Foaming Gel Body Wash - 532ml - $17.59 and Moisturizing Shave Oil - 227ml - $17.59. 

 

Available at select Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppers.ca, well.ca and amazon.ca.

 

EcoTools XL Body Buffer - $6.85 

 

Sometimes you don’t need a fancy jar of product and just need to get in there and scrub the hell out of things yourself. Enter the EcoTools XL Body Buffer. 

 

This oversized body sponge gently exfoliates and cleanses while being easy to hold thanks to its handy strap and it can also be used with your regular body wash, cleanser or body scrub. It’s also made with 57% recycled polyester, so it’s putting in a little environmental effort while you put in the elbow grease. 

 

And because apparently some parts of our bodies were designed specifically to be impossible to reach, EcoTools also makes a Bath Cloth - $4.99 - that expands up to three feet long - perfect for those “I have no idea how I’m supposed to wash that” situations. 

 

Prefer to exfoliate before you even get in the shower? Try their Dry Body Brush - $10.79 - to buff and smooth the skin before bathing. 

 

Available at select Real Canadian Superstores and No Frills stores across Canada and online at amazon.ca.

 

Summer may be over, but there is absolutely no reason your skin has to look like it spent the season living in the Sahara. A little scrubbing, a little moisture and suddenly we’re back to smooth, soft skin instead of leaving a trail of flakes behind us like a very glamorous human breadcrumb.

 

- Lisamarie - 

Scrub from head to toe with Nioxin, Dr Renaud and Soap & Glory!

Nioxin Scalp Recovery Purifying Exfoliator - 50ml - $23.99 - a biodegradable exfoliation treatment that removes scalp flakes, debris and dead skin cell build-up with NIODerma Technology - biodegradable cellulose microbeads that allow usage even on compromised skin. It helps normalize a flaky scalp and is the perfect preshampoo treatment. Pair with a System Kit for thicker, fuller-looking hair.

 

Available at salons and retailers across Canada - check out www.nioxin.com to find one near you.

Dr Renaud Satinage Gentle Facial Scrub - 60ml -  a smoothing, softening scrub with a rich, foaming cream formulation and "triple-sphere" technology for a spectacular exfoliating action inspired by microdermabrasion that removes dead skin cells and polishes the complexion to bright perfection while helping boost the penetration of pursuant products.

Available exclusively in salons and medi-spas across Canada - check out ldrenaud.com to find one near you.

Soap & Glory Scrub For Joy Body Polish - 300ml - $18 - a gently exfoliating body buffer scented with a mood-boosting blend of uplifting notes of grapefruit and exuberant rhubarb and enriched with a  multi-vitamin mix of B5, C & E along with exfoliating walnut shell powder for skin that feels softer,  healthier and happier. 

 

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Zero 100% Natural Face Scrub!

Zero 100% Natural Face Scrub - 100ml - $26.99 - a daily facial scrub suitable for all skin types that gently removes excess oil, dead skin, pore-clogging surface debris and other impurities with a naturally scented blend of plant-based oils: sacha inchi oil, sweet almond oil and coconut oil that work to nourish and soften, while finely ground apricot seeds help to smooth and brighten the complexion.

It's very gentle, not a harsh scruby-scrub and does not have the fake scent that I find is added to a lot of scrubs - it smells very clean and natural. Best of all skin feels smooth and clean after using, not dry and tight!

The scrub is part of a newly arrived to Canada natural UK. beauty line which is all 100% natural, vegan and plant-based - for your skin and sustainably packaged and full recyclable - for the planet! The scrub is my favourite item from the line which also includes:

Zero 100% Natural Day Cream - 50ml - $34.99 - deeply moisturizes and soothes skin with a formula enriched with shea butter and coconut oil to hydrate and nourish skin all day long.

Zero 100% Natural Night Cream - 50ml - $34.99 - nourishes and rejuvenates skin while you sleep with a powerful blend of naturally healing shea butter; regenerating green tea extract that restore and hydrate skin to leaving it looking fresh and well rested every morning.

Zero 100% Natural Eye Cream - 25ml - $29.99 - with a rich formula enriched with shea butter and deeply moisturizing coconut oil to hydrate and nourish the delicate skin around the eyes.

Zero 100% Natural Face Wash - 100ml - $26.99 - gently washes away all traces of makeup, excess oil, pollution particles and other daily grime with a unique blend of coconut oil sweet almond oil and sacha inchi oil to leave skin feeling refreshed,, soothed and deeply hydrated.

Zero 100% Natural Hand & Nail Cream - 50ml - $19.99 - a luxuriously rich, yet easily absorbed cream enriched with sweet almond oil, coconut oil, sacha inchi seed oil and shea butter to help heal and restore dry and hands and maintain soft skin - especially useful in these high hand washing days!

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Needful Things - Laline Body Scrub

Eliminate winter dullness and restore your body's shine with:

Laline Body Scrub - 240g - $20, 500g - $35 - in 10 scents: Musk, Coconut Verbena, Vanilla Pink Pepper, Lemongrass Verbena, Monoi, Frozen Pear, Ocean, Violet Amber, Vanilla Patchouli and my fave - Cherry Blossom - contains the perfect combination of deep cleansing from natural minerals and super nourishment thanks to avocado and grape seed oils - to get skin glowing.

Just massage gently onto wet skin in a circular motion and rinse thoroughly - follow with the Laline  Body Souffle for skin that will be left ridiculously smooth and soft!

Available at Laline stores across Canada and online at laline.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Enjoy an exotic getaway in your bathroom with Soap & Glory Call Of Fruity!

Bring paradise inside with the latest scent from Soap & Glory - Call Of Fruity - a tropical and exotic scent with notes of exotic hibiscus, juicy cantaloupe melon and cedarwood along with body-loving actives including coconut oil, coconut butter and coconut shell. Available in this tropically fabulous range:

The Way She Smoothes Softening Body Lotion - 500ml - $16 - with a refreshing and hydrating formula containing a blend of mango and coconut oils, papaya, passion fruit and algae extracts to leave skin feeling utterly soft and revitalized.

No Woman No Dry Hydrating Body Butter - 300ml - $18 - with an intensely moisturizing formula containing coconut oil, coconut butter, passion fruit, aloe extracts and vitamin E to provide a huge hit of hydration and leave skin velvet-soft.

Bubble In Paradise Refreshing Body Wash - 500ml - $16 - makes washing an energizing experience with super-refreshing ingredients including exotic-cool formula - for a cooling effect, juicy mango and mandarin extracts to leave skin feeling clean and refreshed.

Hand Food Hydrating Hand Cream - 125ml - $10 - full of super-nourishers like macadamia oil, shea butter, mashmallow extract and vitamin E for soft and hydrated hands.

And my fave from the line:

Summer Scrubbin' Cooling Body Scrub - 300ml - $18 - features an exoti-cool formula - a refreshing blend to help smooth with naturally exfoliating coconut shell and pink jojoba buffing balls to reveal fresh, glowing skin that feels totally smooth and silky!

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Lierac does a body good!

Looking to help combat the effects that a summer's worth of sun, wind, water and sand have had on your skin? Then check out:

Lierac Body-Nutri+ Anti-Dryness Body Lotion - 400ml - $35 - a lightweight, melting and non-sticky lotion for sensitive, dry skin that replenishes lipids and combats dryness while soothing skin and relieving tightness with a forula of 7% urea, safflower oil and shea butter for 48-hour hydration.

Lierac Body-Hydra+ Micropeeling Scrub - 200ml - $33 - resurfaces, smooths and evens out dry, rough, dull skin to leave it 100% renewed. Designed to facilitate massage and make it more comfortable to use thanks to a formula enriched with plant-origin, lipid-rich coco-glucoside, which provides immediate hydration, even after rinsing for skin that looks softer and plumper. It also doesn't hurt that it smells great: orange blossom, gardenia, and frangipani flower release a feminine and addictive fragrance.

Lierac Body-Hydra+ Plumping Milk - 400ml - $35 - with a fresh and ultra-lightweight active texture that forms a mesh on the surface of the epidermis for high-performance and long-lasting hydration and immediately replumped skin. The lotion has a concentrated hydra-plumping complex, which combines the actions of two hyaluronic acids: one provides immediate surface rehydration; while the other is gradually released for a deep-down, long-lasting plumping action for 48-hour rehydration - as well as being enriched with silicon and hibiscus extract, for their toning and smoothing properties.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at lierac.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... R&R Luxury Shea Sugar Scrub!

Here's a company you can feel good about - R&R Luxury is a family run business, with a vision to share 100% natural, made in Africa products with the rest of the world. The products contain no parabens, no artificial colours or mineral oils and feature the remarkable healing qualities of natural, unrefined, pure Shea Butter!

My favourite product from the line is:

R&R Luxury Shea Sugar Scrub - 300g - $25 - in Lemongrass or Lavender - with a wonderfully natural formula made up of shea butter, brown sugar, coconut oil, corn flour and either lemongrass or lavender essential oil.

Just apply to face and/or body before showering in round circular movements and then shower as usual to rinse off for skin that is smooth, clean, deeply moisturized and beautifully scented - and if your skin is sensitive, I would recommend applying to wet skin instead for a more delicate scrub!

Available online at BEAUTELLA.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Smooth skin made easy with Garnier, Mary Kay and Neutrogena!

Garnier SkinActive Deep Pore Exfoliating Scrub -150ml - $10.99 - with a 97% naturally-derived and 100% vegan formula that decongests skin - even sensitive - and mattifies with green tea and gently exfoliates to reduce the appearance of pores and leave skin smoother with a refined texture.

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

Mary Kay Botanical Effects Invigorating Scrub - 88ml - $21 - exfoliates to remove dead and dull skin, leaving pores feeling deeply cleaned with an antioxidant-packed formula containing dragon fruit extract - to help fight skin-damaging free radicals, aloe extract - for an added boost of antioxidants and natural exfoliating fruit seeds to help unclog pores to leave skin looking smoother with a well-rested radiance and healthy glow.

Available through your Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant - if you don't have one you can find one at - www.marykay.ca or 1-866-455-5454.

Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub - 119g - $10.99 -  with cooling gel formula that unclogs pores with gentle exfoliators and salicylic acid - getting rid of trapped dirt, make-up and oil that can cause breakouts while it helps to preserve skin’s essential moistue without leaving skin feeling stripped - just soft and deeply purified.

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Yes to Tomatoes and Coconut 2-in-1 Scrub & Cleanser Sticks!

Say Yes to easy, portable, multi-tasking products that cleanse and exfoliate in just one swipe:
Yes to Tomatoes Clear Skin Detoxifying Charcoal 2-In-1 Scrub & Cleanser Stick - 70g - $13.49 - formulated with charcoal powder to remove impurities and excess oil, as well as tomato extract to help leave skin naturally clear. Convenient stick formula melts into a creamy lather on wet skin, for a quick and easy detox, and deep clean and is perfect for use on-the-go!

Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Energizing Coffee 2-In-1 Scrub & Cleanser Stick - 70g - $13.49 - formulated with coffee to energize and enhance skintone and coconut for the much needed moisture that dry skin craves!
They're easy to use:

Just twist up stick from the base and apply generously onto wet skin. You’ll feel the exfoliation go into action and the formula melting on contact.

Massage with hands to create a milky lather, activating the cleansing experience. Rinse face clean with water and you're good to go!

Available now at drugstores and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Bathe your way to younger looking skin with Calgon!

Take aim at aging skin below the neck with Calgon Ageless Bath - a line of bath products infused with an exclusive Vita-Pearl technology with pearl powder, vitamin E and collagen.

Available in the collection:

For softer skin:

Nourishing Milk Bath - 766ml - $6.99 - a nutrient-enriched, nourishing and foaming milk bath that features moisturizing serum beads - you can actually see the appearance of dry lines diminish after one use - for skin that feels soft, smooth and comfortable all day.

For radiant skin:

Renewing Bath Pearls - 453g - $6.99 -. step out of the bath with a youthful glow after taking a soak in a formula that  provides luminosity and moisture to the skin - dullness is immediately brightened for skin that looks younger and fresher.

For smoother skin:

Exfoliating Mineral Scrub - 690g - $6.99 - scrubs away signs of aging as it exfoliates dry, dead skin cells leaving skin smooth and even toned.

You can use them separately but I like them all together - the bath pearls are great from brightening but they don't bubble so add the milk for softness and foam - once in the tub slather on the scrub and let the water just soak it away - it won't make the water gritty but it sure will make your skin smooth!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Three easy steps to bear-able skin with Avene, Nair and St. Tropez!

Now that the holidays are almost over, naturally your thoughts are turning to what nice warm place you are going to go on vacation - but you don't want to go anywhere without taking care of of the fish-belly white skin that has been deprived of sun for the last few months! Luckily a golden glow is quick to achieve in 3 easy steps:

First ditch the dead skin and smooth it out with:

Avene Body Gentle Scrub - 200ml - $25 - with a gentle soap-free cleansing base, rich and lavish texture that awakens the senses and a formula enriched with hydrating and lipid-replenishing agents that guarantees perfect mechanical exfoliation action thanks to the synergy between cellulose microbeads made from wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and micro-beads made from jojoba wax that also prevents skin dryness to leave skin soft, smooth and glowing.

Available at drugstores across Canada.

Not only does the scrub get rid of dead skin for a perfect self-tanning canvas, after using it is also a great time for hair removal, making it harder for ingrown hairs to happen - this one is meant for the bikini area, arms and underarms but it's also great for legs unless the hair is very coarse in which case you might need something a little stronger:

Nair Glides Away Sensitive Coconut - 93g - $11.99 -  with a unique, deodorant-like application stick that offers a quick, easy and touch-free alternative to other removers. The dye and paraben free formula is infused with 100% natural coconut oil and vitamin E to gently remove hair and leave skin smooth for up to 6 days while nourishing the skin and contains odour neutralizing technology with a comforting coconut scent so you don't stink up the bathroom!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

And now that you are prepped it's time to get sun-kissed with:

St. Tropez Gradual Tan One Minute Everyday Pre-Shower Tanning Mousse - 120ml - $28 - an easy to use mousse that you just apply to dry skin daily and shower off after just one minute for a subtle golden glow from day one - reapply daily, or leave on longer for a deeper glow. Best of all, there is no self-tan smell and no transfer, just subtle, healthy-looking, glowing skin!

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Hudson's Bay and Sephora stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Hard Candy Bath + Body 2018

Hard Candy introduces two delicious new scents in a bath and body collection that will not only have your skin looking and smelling great but leave little strain on your wallet!

Choose from:

Cherry Blossom Vibes infused with
warm cherry blossom, sweet red plum and blooming freesia

Coconut Love infused with coconut, soft peony and creamy sandalwood

With both scents being available in:

Mud To Foam Face & Body Cleanser - 240g - $6.97 - watch the mud transform into a gentle creamy foam lather on the skin while it dissolves makeup and gets rid of the day's daily pollutants to leave skin feeling refreshed, renewed and delicately scented.

Cherry Blossom Vibes Warming Shower Gel - warms the senses or Coconut Love Hydrating Creamy Body Wash -with a milky, hydrating lather - 473ml - $5.97 - invigorate the skin while delighting the senses, leaving skin feeling clean, refreshed and restored.

Cherry Blossom Vibes Salt Body Scrub or Coconut Love Hydrating Sugar Body Scrub - for added moisture - 255g - $6.97 - soothes and smooths as it buffs away rough, dry skin leaving skin feeling soft, refreshed and invigorated.

Fragrance Mist - 236ml - $6.97 - softly scents skin with a fresh, light scent.

Available now exclusively at Walmart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Better skin made easy with The Better Skin Co. Lava Magik and Mirakle Cream!

Looking for effective, multipurpose products that won't break the bank? Then here are a couple of clever ones from The Better Skin Co. that you will wonder how you ever lived without!

Better Skin Lava Magik - 60ml - $40 - a magikal multi-tasker that can be used as a daily cleanser, exfoliating scrub or revitalizing mask! Contains skin cleansing volcanic lava from France enriched with nourishing calendula, sweet orange and grapeseed oils, cucumber, parsley and chamomile for healthy radiant, more youthful looking skin.

It's a great daily cleanser if you don't have a lot of other exfoliating going on in your life - just use a tiny amount mixed with water. And/or use twice weekly as a scrub - just apply to wet skin and massage for 30 to 60 seconds paying particular attention to any dry or rough looking areas. Then once or twice a week apply a generous layer to the face and leave on for 5 to 10 minutes - when removing moisten fingertips and massage in a circular motion for additional exfoliation. I especially love it as a mask, for 10 minutes you get the additional aromatherapy benefits of the great orange scent - such a great mood lifter!

Better Skin Mirakle Cream - 60ml - $43 - an all-purpose cream that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increases radiance and luminosity, soothes dry skin and helps reduce the appearance of dark spots with an ingredient rich recipe of beautiful ingredients such as coconut oil, sea buckthorn, shea butter, cocoa butter, aloe, and soothing algae to help moisturize the skin; peptides and hyaluronic acid help skin appear smoother, more youthful and radiant.

It's a rich cream without being heavy - my combination skin found it to be a bit much in my oily areas but it feels great everywhere else - I've also had this weird dry patch on my neck from the winter that just wouldn't entirely go away but after a week of using the cream it's totally gone - this really did prove itself to be a "mirakle" cream - I also appreciate the lack of scent - there is nothing worse then an overly perfumed moisturizer!

Available now at select Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutique stores and Murale stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Unleash the force of nature on your skin with emerginC Rawceuticals!

Caryl Baker Visage has partnered with skin care brand emerginC to launch one of the first skin care lines in Canada to feature new cold pressed technology - Rawceuticals - a revolutionary range of advanced skin care that blends a wide variety of pure, active cold pressed plant extracts with naturally-derived cosmeceutical ingredients. Each product is crafted in small batches to ensure freshness and effectiveness and allows ingredients to be extracted in their purest form with no oxidation so that its vital vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes and nutrients are kept intact.

Available in the collection:

Clean - Wet/Dry Cleanser - 118ml - $60 - a unique anhydrous cleansing oil that effectively deep cleans both dirt and makeup while helping to restore skin’s moisture balance.

To use, just dispense 2-3 pumps into hands and massage onto dry skin for 30 seconds. Add a few drops of water and continue massage over skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water or use with raw cloth for more in depth cleansing. 

Contains 97% cold pressed, 95% organic Sunflower Seed Oil - rich in omega 6 & 9 to help restore natural moisture and nourish skin;
PhytoVie Defense Urban Shield Co-polymer - a biodegradable, botanical-based polymer made from brassica campestris and aleurites fordi oil co-polymer that stays on the skin longer to defend against pollution and help restore and hydrate skin; and
hemp seed oil - helps to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of pore size, balance sebum and shield against the risks of UVA and UVB sun damage by protecting skin from free radical damage; 
as well as: sesame seed oil, aloe leaf extract, argan oil, avocado oil, cinnamomum camphora wood oil and macadamia seed oil.

Boreal Tonic - Forest Bark Facial Toner - 118ml - $58.50 - a unique soothing, remineralizing face toner crafted to sooth, nourish and tone skin after cleansing. Can be used throughout the day to rehydrate skin.

Contains 70% organic and 1% cold pressed ingredients including:
borealine hydra - a mix of 4 actives obtained from red maple, black spruce, yellow birch and jack pine barks that provides stable and long-lasting hydration to the skin and helps combat signs of premature aging and improves skin’s elasticity;
Argentière icecap water - has very high levels of minerals, especially calcium and silicium that help to rejuvenate and hydrate skin; and
basil - an antibacterial and antioxidant-rich, natural source of vitamin K that clarifies the skin and reduces the appearance of inflammation;
as well as: glycerin and witch hazel water.

Blend - Black Cumin, Hemp & Kakadu Plum Pressed Defense Moisturizer - 50ml - $150 - rich and nourishing, it defends against environmental aggressions, evens skin tone and texture and fights the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, moisturizes, nourishes, soothes and fights the appearance of aging skin.

Contains 67% organic & cold pressed and 61% fair trade & virgin ingredients including:
PhytoVie Defense - a botanical-based polymer made from brassica campestris and aleurites fordi oil co-polymer (tung wood + rapeseed oil) that stays on the skin longer to defend skin against pollution and help restore and hydrate;
kakadu plum - a powerful antioxidant high in vitamin C that helps protect against free radicals and environment stressors such as extreme weather and pollution which may lead to premature aging, dryness and skin irritation;
black cumin seed oil - helps to firm, moisturize, nourish and smooth skin;
hemp seed oil - helps to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of pore size, balance sebum and shield against the risks of UVA and UVB sun damage by protecting skin from free radical damage;
chia seed extract - high in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids which helps protect and repair skin against free radical damage; and
tomato seed extract - high in vitamins A and C to help tighten pores, reduce breakouts and even skin tone.

Eye & Lip Craft - Pressed Coco-Carrot Eye & Lip Moisturizer - 15ml - $100 - a nourishing, active “pressed” moisturizer for both the eye area and lips that help soothe, combats environmental stress-es, defends against environmental aggressions, and fights the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Contains 55% organic & cold pressed and 51% fair trade & virgin ingredients including:
PhytoVie Defense - a biodegradable, botanical-based polymer made from brassica campestris and aleurites fordi oil co-polymer which stays on the skin longer to defend skin against pollution and help restore and hydrate;
fair trade virgin cocoa butter - a natural moisturizer high in fatty acids, antioxidants, and caffeine to help moisturize, protect, and repair skin against sun damage and even out skin tone;
black cumin seed oil - an antioxidant rich oil which helps to firm, moisturize, nourish, and smooth skin;
hemp seed oil - high in lineoleic acid, it helps to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of pore size, help balance sebum and shield against the risks of UVA and UVB sun damage by protecting skin from free radical damage; and
carrot seed oil - helps condition and nourish the skin, making it excellent for dryness and sensitivity;
as well as: shea butter, coconut oil, hydrolyzed quinoa, hydrolyzed rice protein and hydrolyzed amaranth protein.

Red Berry Dual Mask & Gommage - Remineralizing Raspberry, Red Maple & Avocado - 50ml - $75 - a two-in-one product that works either as a nourishing, hydrating, remineralizing mask or as a gentle clarifying and remineralizing scrub.

To use as an exfoliant - gently massage over damp skin for up to 3 minutes then remove thoroughly. Or as a mask - apply and leave on 10 minutes, until dry. After 10 minutes, rub in a circular motion in the T-zone or all over face until product crumbles off. Remove excess with warm water.

Contains 73% organic, 11.5% raw minerals including: 
cold-processed crafting borealine hydra - a mix of 4 actives obtained from red maple, black spruce, yellow birch and jack pine barks that provides stable and long-lasting hydration to the skin and helps prevent premature aging and to improve skin’s elasticity;
raspberry seed powder - a rich source of vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, K and B-6, iron, magnesium, manganese and antioxidants;
finely milled pumice - from volcanic rock that is a naturally occurring and an effective exfoliator to help remove dead skin cells and purify pores; and
kaolin - a natural clay mineral which helps re-mineralize, absorb oil and control excess sebum secretion. 

Raw Cloth - Pure, Clean, Soft Fiber Cloth - 2 cloths - $28.50 - a revolutionary, biodegradable face cloth derived from 100% wood fiber sourced from sustainably managed forests. Incredibly soft when wet, this one-of-a- kind cloth rinses 99.9% bacteria free and can be used over 1,000 times.

Drop by any Caryl Baker Visage Face Spa in Ontario or Alberta for a free 15-minute mini facial and experience the line in person or find it online at carylbakervisage.com.

- Lisamarie -

Show your glow with the Avon Skin So Soft Radiant Glow Collection!

The new Avon Skin So Soft Radiant Glow Collection offers 2 easy steps to glow:

1. Polish - Reveal a natural radiance with:

Skin Luminosity Polish - 200g - $14 - gently exfoliates to polish away dead, dulling layers with four nourishing oils and vitamin E.

2. Shine - Glisten all over with:

Illuminating Dry Oil Mist - 150ml - $14 - a unique blend of five nourishing oils that helps moisturize and add a soft all-over shimmer.

Available now from your Avon rep - 1-800-265-AVON or online at avon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Soap & Glory Smoothie Star Breakfast Scrub

Soap & Glory Smoothie Star Breakfast Scrub - 300ml - $18  - with an exfoliating blend of oat, shea butter and sugar combined with organic cupuacu bio scrubs, bananas, almond and honey extracts along with three powerful moisturizers - shea butter, glycerin and sweet almond oil to leave skin as smooth as the proverbial baby's bottom. 

Probably best to use only after breakfast though, it has a great new maple fragrance that will leave your tummy smooth and rumbling!

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Go crazy for shea with the new Mary Kay Satin Body Collection!

The new Mary Kay Satin Body Collection features velvety shea butter to protect, enrich, soften and hydrate skin and a refreshing white tea and citrus scent that's amazing to wake up to!

Revitalizing Shea Scrub - $22 - exfoliates and immediately buffs away dry skin, paving the way for suppleness.

Indulgent Shea Wash - $22 - envelops skin in rich lather that gently cleanses and leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed.

Silkening Shea Lotion - $22 -  Instantly comforts and melts into skin, providing immediate nourishment and relief for dryness.

Whipped Shea Crème - $26 - limited edition - with an ultra-rich formula that blankets skin and keeps it moisturized all day. .

Available through your Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant - if you don't have one you can locate one at - www.marykay.ca or 1-866-455-5454.

- Lisamarie -

Filorga Scrub & Mask Reoxygenating Exfoliating Mask

Filorga Scrub & Mask Reoxygenating Exfoliating Mask - 55ml - $70 - a dual action scrub and mask that exfoliates and reoxygenates in a two step process:

Step 1: new-skin revealing scrub - spread a thick layer on clean skin and massage in gently using circular movements for one minute: perlite spheres gently exfoliate skin while a new-generation enzyme sloughs off dead cells for a complete new-skin effect.

Step 2: anti-aging reoxygenating mask - when the scrub is completed, leave the product on to settle; the texture will transform into a mousse and start to bubble which means the mousse is retaining oxygen - once the bubbles disappear in about ten minutes rinse off with water to reveal skin that glows with new-found radiance, tighter looking pores and a refined and smooth texture.

Use 1-3 times a week for skin that is brighter, clearer and super-smooth!

Available now at Shoppers Drug Mart, Murale and Bloor and Yorkdale Holt Renfrew locations.

- Lisamarie -

It's good to be naked with basd body care!

The biggest piece of skin real estate you have is on your body so shouldn't you make sure the products you are using on it have your health and wellness in mind?

Introducing basd - a new Canadian line of organic, plant based cruelty and toxin free body care products that you can feel good about!

Available in the collection:

Body Wash - 450ml - $15.99 -  with a hydrating and refreshing formula that contains organic aloe vera juice to moisturize and tone the skin, calming organic green tea to feel nourished and essential oils to awaken your senses and stimulate your mind.

Body Lotion - 450ml - $24.99 - with a moisture-rich, silky-smooth and long lasting formula that contains organic virgin coconut oil and organic shea butter to soften the skin and reduce puffiness along with organic aloe vera juice and organic sunflower oil for a delicate texture and velvety skin.

Coffee Body Scrub - 180g - $19.99 - with a skin improving formula that contains organic coffee grounds to reduce puffiness, sea salt for exfoliation and organic sweet almond oil and vitamin E to hydrate and leave skin glowing and feeling healthy.

And unlike some organic products which can smell a little too "natural" for my taste, they come in 2 amazing scents: Invigorating Mint and Indulgent Creme Brulee (which smells like cookies!)

Available at select health food stores across Canada and online at basdbodycare.ca.

- Lisamarie -

The Body Shop Spa Of The World Firming Ritual

The Body Shop has added a new regime to their Spa of the World range: the Firming ritual - infused with a blend of fruit extracts from forests and vines and blended into refining textures and invigorating fragrances for an uplifting regime designed to empower skin, body and mind.

Available in the collection:

Ethiopian Green Coffee Firming Body Cream - 350ml - $36 - a silky, soft cream with the refining, firming and toning properties of caffeine from organic Ethiopian green coffee along with community trade organic olive oil from Italy that leaves skin feeling firmer and more refined with a satiny smooth finish.

French Grape Seed Refining Body Scrub - 350ml - $32 - infused with grape seed powder from France and community trade organic sugar from Paraguay to help invigorate, exfoliate and refine skin, stimulate circulation and promote even skin tone and a fresh and delicate fruity fragrance that helps awaken and revive the senses. This is my favourite product from the line, not only does it leave skin amazingly silky and smooth, it leaves it smelling amazing too!

Thai Makrut Lime Firming & Toning Body Oil - 170ml - $24 - a toning and firming oil enriched community trade marula oil from Namibia to nourish skin and infused with zingy makrut lime with a stimulating and uplifting scent.

Indian Turtle Body Massage Tool - $18 -  a sleek turtle-inspired tool, developed with community trade craftsmen in India, that gently pinches the skin to stimulate blood flow when used with a rolling massage technique to help increase skin elasticity.

Available at The Body Shop locations across Canada and online at www.thebodyshop.ca.

- Lisamarie -