3 products my skin is loving from Belif, Trinny London and Ole Henriksen!

A change in weather means a change to my skin care - cold temperatures start to dry out my skin so it's time to break out more moisturizing products and here are 3 that will be in my winter rotation for sure:

Belif Moisturizing Bomb Toner - 200ml - $40.50 - a milky-textured toner that feels like a toner and serum in one with ultra-nourishing benefits thanks to a combination of: napiers moisture formula - reduces oils and provides moisture; comfrey leaf - an ultra-moisturizing herb that heals and soothes dryness; and a hydro-cream complex that contains nature-derived oil, shea butter and ceramide for moisture and to nourish the skin's barrier.

This is a truly cool product! It's like a super thin serum - and you can layer it. (I am already thinking about how great it will be for hot summer days when I would normally skip the moisturizer because even the lightest gel-cream seems like too much, but this would be perfect!)

If you are dry and like/need a thicker moisturizer follow it with Belif The True Cream- Moisturizing Bomb.

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca.

Trinny London Bounce Back Intense Peptide Moisturiser - 50ml - $88, 50ml refill - $70 - powered by a high-tech, 4-peptides complex that works to increase skin elasticity and firmness while visibly reducing the look of wrinkles along with hyaluronic acid - offers 24-hour moisture and restores plumpness to the skin while squalane and oat lipids help repair the skin barrier. our high-performing formulation visibly smooths wrinkles and brings vibrancy back to your complexion - for skin that feels plump, bouncy and full of life. 

It packs a really nice and lasting moisturizing punch without being too thick: if I use something too heavy my skin will let me know by breaking out in tiny red bumps and I am bump free with this one; or not thick enough: which is when my skin will feel tight and dry - this formula is Goldilocks approved - just right!

Available online at https://trinnylondon.com/ca/products/bounce-back.

Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment - 12ml - $30 - An advanced lip treatment with skin-supporting peptides and kokum butter that instantly hydrates and improves elasticity; smooths, brightens and revives dull lips; reduces the look of fine lip lines and quickly, visibly plumps for fuller looking lips in just one week.

It adds a lot of moisture and a little bit of shine so not recommended to wear under lipstick but is great if you are looking for a more natural day look or as an overnight treatment (it's replaced my Laneige Sleeping Mask). My very favourite thing about it though is the smell - it also comes in Lingonberry Jam option but as far as I'm concerned you can't beat the Original which is Citrus Sunshine and to me smells exactly like an orange creamsicle - yummy!

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with...Belif Aqua Bomb PHA Exfoliating Toner Pads!

Exfoliate, soothe and hydrate all in one clever little pad with...

 

Belif Aqua Bomb PHA Exfoliating Toner Pads - 150ml (70 pads) - $32 - diminish dry, flaky patches to reveal brighter and smoother skin with a formula of 2% polyhydroxy acid - smooths and exfoliates dead skin; bakuchiol - nature's retinol for the skin for fine lines; hyaluronic acid - to hydrate; and centella asiatica - to soothe.

The pads are double sided: the embossed side helps slough away dead skin cells and excess oil while the smooth side offers gentle skin refinement and hydration. 

 

Nothing feels better on your tired skin after a long day and of course the jar container means they are super portable - so take them everywhere! Just keep in mind if you have sensitive skin that you might have to work up to daily use, try using them just a few times a week at first until your skin adjusts.

Available now at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Collection!

The Face Shop is helping you fight the ravages of cold weather on your skin with moisturizing skin care containing eco-friendly mineral-enriched, gently exfoliating rice extract and rice bran, from pristine Yeoju in South Korea, and ceramide to help skin retain moisture. 

 

Available in the collection:

Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Toner - 150ml - $12 - gently balances and moisturizes dry skin with a toner that feels like an essence and provides superb moisture to the face. 

 

Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Emulsion - 150ml - $12 - a water-based lotion with a milky, non-sticky texture and a semi-liquid consistency that replenishes moisture instantly and gets even more moisturizing as the time passes. 

 

Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Cream - 50ml - $13 - helps give skin a visibly translucent and healthy glow while gently moisturizing dry skin.

 

The products are all non-irritating and contain the key ingredients of rice extract and rice bran oil - to help moisturize and nourish skin while gently exfoliating; and nano ceramide water –- to help naturally accelerate the absorption of moisture and strengthen the moisture barrier to prevent moisture loss - and are free from 4 potentially harmful additives: paraben, tar, mineral oil and talc.

 

Mix and match them in whatever way works for your skin - extra dry skin will love the cream layered of the emulsion for an extra boost of moisture!

 

Available at The Face Shop stores across Canada and online at avon.ca.

 

- Lisamarie -

Shoppers Drug Mart glowing skin must haves from Dr Roebuck's, Versed and No7!

Dr Roebuck's No Worries Hydrating Face Moisturizer - 50ml - $60 - a silicone-free, non-comedogenic daily moisturizer formulated with: hyaluronic acid - an anti-aging active that smooths and plumps skin, helping to retain moisture and aid in decreasing the appearance of fine lines; macadamia oil - an essential fatty acid that works to heal, nourish and hydrate the skin; and rosehip oil - a vitamin and antioxidant rich skin protectant. 

 

Part of The Thoughtful Choices at Shoppers Drug Mart lineup, curated to help make it easier for you to shop consciously for products that are cruelty-free as well as paraben, phthalate, SLS/SLES, formaldehyde, BPA and aluminum salts-free; and mindful of our planet.

Versed Weekend Glow Brightening Solution - 120ml - $24.99 - a powerful brightening toner for dark spots and post-acne marks. With an exfoliating formula that includes a four-acid complex of lactic, glycolic, azelaic, and kojic acid; along with bearberry extract and vitamin C to deliver a glowier complexion without any of the tingle. Also part of the The Thoughtful Choices at Shoppers Drug Mart lineup.

No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream - 50ml - $29 - a multi-tasking night cream that targets the three key signs of aging: reducing wrinkles; firming skin; and evening skin tone - while sleeping, nourishing and restoring skin's moisture overnight. In just 2 weeks, wrinkles are reduced, skin appears lifted and firmed, while the unique lightening complex helps to fade stubborn pigmentation and dark spots for a more even skin tone. After 3 weeks, you will awaken to rested, more radiant and healthy-looking skin.  

 

All available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Follow your Bliss to amazing skin!

Bliss holds a special place in my heart - a zillion years ago when Sephora first opened their first Canadian store in Toronto my very first purchase was a pair of Bliss Glamour Gloves (I still have them!) and I continued to buy and love their products ever since - well almost ever since... some years ago the products became harder to come by here - but no longer - Bliss has arrived in Canada and you can now find it at Shoppers Drug Mart!

 

Now that I can Bliss to my heart's content I've been on a mission to try everything out and see what I like best and have come up a top 3 fave list:

 

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum - 130ml - $19.99 - a game-changing treatment, clinically proven to deliver clear, calm skin in 14 days by combining the benefits of a toner with all the joys of a serum to purify pores, tone skin and deliver concentrated ingredients for ultimate clarity without over-drying or irritating skin. Powered a proprietary CLARITY 5 COMPLEX containing BHA (salicylic acid), witch hazel water, niacinamide, zinc PCA & cica. Masking has been giving me some issues that I thought were behind me in my non-teenage years - and this has sorted things right out and so quickly too without giving me the dry patches that I usually suffer from when I use stronger ingredients - yea!

 

Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Collagen Protecting Serum - 30ml - $32.99 - this collagen-protecting and brightening serum boosts brightness and elasticity in one use with a high concentration of the most effective, non-irritating form of clinical-grade vitamin C plus tri-peptide to brighten, diminish the look of dark spots and visibly firm skin. I am super-obsessed with vitamin C these days and love that this one comes in serum form that absorbs quickly making it easy to layer and with none of weird smells that some vitamin C products have!

 

Bliss Incredi-peel 10% Glycolic Acid Spa-Strength Resurfacing Peel - 15 facial treatments - $29.99 -with a spa-strength formula that gradually releases the 10% glycolic acid formula overnight to target fine lines, discoloration and imperfections for smoother, brighter skin by morning. Also great for travel (if we can ever do that again) thanks to the convenient, single-step, no-rinse peel pads that are individually packaged.

 

Bliss also goes above and beyond to ensure its products are clean and safe. The brand uses only ethically-sourced, high-quality ingredients and has thoughtfully formulated its products to be 90% vegan and 100% clean, cruelty-free and blissfully free from the bad stuff including parabens, phthalates, SLS and SLES. I also appreciate how accessible the line is to everyone - nothing will set you back more then $32.99!

 

Go to your favourite Shoppers Drug Mart store across Canada or online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca to try my favourites or discover your own!

 

- Lisamarie -

Stop that summer shine with Garnier SkinActive Mattifying Cleanser and Toner!

Garnier SkinActive Mattifying Cleanser - 200ml - $10.99 - deeply cleanses and mattifies skin with a 96% naturally derived formula including green tea extract while reducing the appearance of pores and rinses clean without any pore-clogging residue. And for complete mattifying, follow it with:

Garnier SkinActive Mattifying Toner - 200ml - $10.99 - removes the last traces of makeup, pollutants and dirt to tone for perfectly purified skin

Both products feature a 100% vegan formula with no nasties: no parabens, no silicones and no dyes - making them suitable even for sensitive skin.

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Embryolisse Eau de Beaute Rosamelis!

Embryolisse Eau de Beauté Rosamélis - 200ml - $22 - the paraben-free formula contains four natural origin flower waters: rose, orange blossom, cornflower and hamamelis to purify and tone the skin after cleansing leaving it feeling so soft and comfortable skin with a tighter texture and fresh glow.

Use it as a toner and apply in the morning and evening with a cotton pad after cleansing or these days it is amazing as a refreshing mist (especially if you store it in the fridge) and it also makes a great  makeup fixing mist!

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

- Lisamarie -

Get moisture that's the bomb... Belif Aqua Bomb that is!

A change in seasons means all kinds of new and wonderful skincare problems: dryness, pores, dullness and uneven texture to name just a few - wouldn't it be nice if there was an easy way to deal with them?

But wait, there is:

Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner - 200ml - $37 - a lightweight, water based toner that provides a refreshing splash of hydration to help nurture skin for a healthy-looking glow.

The hydrating formula includes:
honeysuckle - to soothe and calm the skin;
baobab - locks in moisture and prevents water loss; and
sodium hyaluronate - helps keep skin hydrated.

 and dries to a satisfying satin finish for a smoother, softer and healthier-looking complexion.

If your skin is oily you might find  the toner adds enough moisture on it's own - other skin types will probably want another layer so the toner pairs well with - for combination skin: The True Cream Aqua Bomb - 50ml - $50 - a weightless gel-cream that cools and refreshes skin while providing an explosion of intense hydration; or for dry skin: The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb - 50ml - $50 - a cushiony cream that provides dull, flaky skin with an explosion of comforting moisture, leaving it feeling supple, smooth, and deeply nourished. I also noticed a discovery kit with a bunch of travel sized products for $30 if you want to try them out first without committing to full sizes!

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... The Case Full Of Seoul - The Best Of Korean Skincare!

The Case Full Of Seoul - The Best Of Korean Skincare - $159.99 - makes it easy to discover all that K-Beauty has to offer with 8 skin-changing products - best when used together, each product has a purpose to target different skin concerns that work to unveil a flawless complexion.

This is a great way to introduce yourself to K-Beauty if you aren't already a fan. If you aren't familiar with the concept, Korean skincare is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, rather than a one-off treatment it's where the secret to beautiful skin is knowing that it doesn’t happen overnight, but is rather a commitment to a daily routine that will deliver long-lasting results.

The set includes:

9 Wishes Rice Foaming Cleanser -  a micro-ground rice powder textured formula that
works to gently exfoliate away dead skin while cleansing away make-up and other impurities to
leave the skin bright and full of hydration thanks to its nutrient-rich rice water ingredients.

MayCoop Raw Sauce Mini - a toner and emulsion in one that intensely hydrates and revitalizes dull skin using ingredients that mimic molecules in human skin, such as maple tress sap, to help retain extra-high absorbency.

URANG True Rose Repair Essence - with a jelly-like texture containing organic Bulgarian rose water and rose essential oil for a cooling effect to calm down redness and re-energize sensitive skin.

Tov Camellia Wrinkle-Free Eye Solution - fills in fine lines and wrinkles in the delicate eye area with a formula of shea butter and macadamia nut oil.

MayCoop Raw Moisturizer - formulated with maple tree sap for the ultimate hydration experience, in a soothing complex that uses an oil/water balance to allow skin tissue to work as a barrier, absorber and regenerator.

Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer - with a velvety smooth texture that creates a long-lasting, smooth canvas for flawless makeup application and contains a unique sebum catching powder that controls oil-production to keep skin from appearing greasy as well as minimizing the look of pores, wrinkles and uneven skin.

URANG Vitamin Oil Serum - hydrates and nourishes the skin with rosehip and jojoba oils that  penetrate deeply and provide a brightening effect while repairing the skin hiding discoloration and reducing fine lines.

I Woke Up Like This All-In-One Concentrate Treatment Mask - a tightly-woven microfibre fabric sheet mask with pearl powder, vitamin C and niacinamide to boost hydration that adheres perfectly to the skin for deep penetration of ingredients to provide a brightening effect and even out skin tone.

Along with the products are four different shorter beauty plans to accommodate every aspect of one’s lifestyle:

‘The Morning Glory’ plan for a quick everyday skincare routine to brighten up your day;

‘The Sleeping Beauty’ plan is to unveil the secret of the “I woke up like this” feeling.

the ‘Get Ready with Me’ plan is for whenever and wherever as skincare is the new makeup; and

the ‘Spa Sunday’ plan for when you want to be extra and Spa-ice things up!

Each plan is easy to follow with a step-by-step how-to no matter what your skincare needs might be that day or if you simply don’t have time for the full eight steps.

Available now at Costco stores across Canada (no Costco membership needed) and online at costco.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Glow with a toner from StriVectin Ole Henriksen and Fresh!

Looking to replace your skin's lost glow? These are all great choices - just remember, as with all radiance products, be sure and wear sunscreen every day or you will undo all your hard work!

StriVectin Advanced Glow Tri-Phase Daily Glow Toner - 148ml - $43 - with a blend of skin transforming acids and nourishing botanical extracts that come together in a three-phase formula containing hyaluronic acid - to deeply hydrate; lactic acid - a gentle AHA; mandelic acid - helps refine pores; rice amino acid - deeply moisturizes to help counter irritation; licorice root extract - soothes skin and enhances luminosity; squalane oil - nourishes and replenishes skin; Aloe Leaf & Calendula Flower Extracts - to soothe dry, fatigued skin; NIA-114 - strengthens the skin barrier and supercharges the performance of other ingredients - together they smooth, hydrate and brighten for a radiant, lit-from-within glow.

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

Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner - 190ml - $34 - with a supercharged formula containing high-potency AHAs (glycolic and lactic acids) - to even skin tone and texture and help reduce the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles in as little as 7 days; witch hazel water - to help brighten and refine skin; and lemon, sugar cane, licorice root, chamomile, and sandalwood extracts - help soothe and condition skin. Best of all is the addictive lemon sugar scent and the invigorating  tingle which always helps me believe a product is working!

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

Fresh Peony Brightening Moisturizing Facial Toner - 198ml - $81 - with a silky, soothing, cushiony, fast-absorbing texture that brightens, improves skin’s clarity and provides up to 24 hours of moisture for soft, luminous skin powered by Fresh’s brightening complex - to help even the appearance of skin tone and hyaluronic acid - which helps to attract and retain moisture for a smooth, supple, youthful-looking complexion.

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Spray your way to rose hydration with Korres, Kosmea and Fresh!

Korres H2 Rose Hydrating Face Mist - 100ml - $44 - an invigorating mist made with 97.5% natural ingredients including: rose water combined with hyaluronic acid and Imperata cylindrica extract to instantly moisturize to relieve thirsty skin;  aloe vera and orange blossom flower water - to hydrate, refresh, tone and minimize the appearance of pores with every spray. Use throughout the day to refresh skin and as a setting spray for longer makeup wear and a youthful-looking, glowing complexion. As an added bonus, it contains no silicones and smells (really) amazing without any synthetic fragrances added.

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

Kosmea Hydrating Rosewater Mist - 150ml - $34.99 - a cooling facial spray made from delicately distilled rose petals that revitalizes and rehydrates tired skin for an invigorated feeling. As well, it quenches dry skin when traveling, nourishes skin that's parched from heat, perks up skin during a busy day and is even great for setting makeup!

Available at well.ca.

Fresh Rose Floral Toner - 250ml - $49 - a soothing, cooling, alcohol-free toner and makeup setting spray that delivers hydration with a heavenly scent. With a gentle formula containing pure rosewater, revered since antiquity for its calming and balancing benefits. It moisturizes for 24-hours, adds a healthy, dewy look as well as making a great refresher for skin throughout the day.

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Clear up your skin for the new year with Beautycounter Countercontrol!

Beautycounter introduces Countercontrol - a powerful new regimen that regulates oil and clears skin up without dryness or irritation!

The formula features SkinBalance Complex of wintergreen and rosebay willow to help reduce blemishes while promoting healthy-looking skin that looks clearer and less red.

Available in the collection:

Clear Pore Cleanser - 150ml - $34 - a daily exfoliating cleanser for oily and blemish-prone skin that effectively removes oil, makeup and other impurities without stripping  skin of moisture. The formula, featuring SkinBalance Complex and aloe vera, helps purify pores and soothe while jojoba beads gently slough away dead skin cells. Infused with an energizing citrus scent, it leaves your complexion feeling refreshed and balanced, not dry or irritated.

Instant Matte Toner - 150ml - $36 - alcohol-free mattifying toner for oily and blemish-prone skin removes residual impurities, controls excess oil, and minimizes the appearance of pores. The formula, with our SkinBalance Complex, helps purify skin while preserving ideal moisture levels for a refreshed, comfortable complexion.

All Over Acne Treatment - 30ml - $49 - clears existing blemishes and helps prevent future breakouts while promoting healthy-looking skin..

Matte Effect Gel Cream - 50ml - $49 - Control oil for up to eight hours* with this innovative cream-to-gel formula for oily and blemish prone skin. Featuring our signature SkinBalance Complex of wintergreen and rosebay willow, this non-greasy hydrator improves skin’s texture without silicone and other ingredients that can clog pores. Oil-free.

SOS Acne Spot Treatment - 15ml - $30 - Save skin from blemish emergencies.This fast-acting formula with maximum strength salicylic acid penetrates pores to reduce blemishes and clear skin. Featuring our SkinBalance Complex, this invisible gel treats breakouts without over-drying for a clearer, healthy-looking complexion. In an independent consumer study of twice daily use, blemish size, redness, and irritation was significantly reduced in just three days**

Available online and through independent consultants - check out www.beautycounter.com for more info.

- Lisamarie -

Treat skin the bright way with the Arbonne RE9 Advanced Brightening Collection!

Winter weather have you skin looking dull and lackluster? It's easy to brighten up with the new Arbonne RE9 Advanced Brightening Collection!

Made up of six new skincare products formulated with Arbonne’s proprietary SakuraBright Complex containing dermatologist-recognized brightening ingredients that help improve skin’s glow and luminosity and minimize the look of dark spots:

RE9 Advanced Brightening Cleansing Foam - 90ml - $56 - a pearlescent cleanser that suds just enough to gently remove makeup, dirt and impurities, without stripping skin of essential hydration to leave it feeling clean and refreshed. The formula contains cherry blossom extract - promotes the appearance of skin radiance with hydration; birch leaf extract - hydrates to help promote luminescent, flawless-looking skin; licorice root extract - hydrates, leaving skin with a vibrant, healthy-looking, natural glow; cucumber, watercress, and red clover extracts - to moisturize to soothe the skin.

RE9 Advanced Brightening Toner - 90ml - $49 - a dual-purpose alcohol-free toner and softening lotion that provides gentle exfoliation to finish the cleansing routine while prepping skin for the next step and leave it looking fresh and glowing. The formula contains cherry blossom extract - promotes the appearance of skin radiance with hydration; birch leaf extract -  hydrates to help promote luminescent, flawless-looking skin; licorice root extract - hydrates, leaving skin with a vibrant, healthy-looking, natural glow; prickly pear flower extract - acts as an exfoliant, helping to reveal more luminous-looking skin while improving skin smoothness and tone; and cucumber, watercress, and red clover extracts - to moisturize to soothe the skin.

RE9 Advanced Brightening Serum - 30ml - $85 -   a lightweight, hydrating, concentrated serum  that targets the appearance of dark spots and uneven pigmentation, giving skin a brighter appearance. The formula contains SakuraBright Complex - delivers essential nourishment to target the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone; cherry blossom extract - promotes the appearance of skin radiance with hydration; ascorbyl glucoside - a stabilized form of vitamin C that brightens to help temporarily diminish the appearance of dark spots, improve the appearance of skin tone and revitalize the look of skin’s radiance; licorice root extract -  hydrates, leaving skin with a vibrant, healthy-looking, natural glow; and cucumber, watercress, red clover extracts - to moisturize to soothe the skin; and beet root extract - delivers hydration to the skin.

RE9 Advanced Brightening Protective Lotion SPF 15 - 50ml - $85 - with a lightweight, hydrating texture that easily absorbs into skin to deliver lasting hydration without greasiness to improve skin’s overall appearance and broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen for UVA/UVB protection to reduce the risk of sun damage and early skin aging. The formula contains zinc oxide - a non-nano, mineral sunscreen agent that offers broad spectrum SPF protection; Japanese pagoda tree flower extract - a botanical with antioxidant properties that helps improve skin’s moisture barrier to help dull, tired-looking skin look refreshed and glowing; stabilized vitamin C -  helps support collagen through moisturization to improve the look of skin texture and tone; and olive squalane - containing omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to replenish the skin’s natural lipid barrier to support moisturization for smooth, healthy-looking skin.

RE9 Advanced Brightening Night Cream - 50ml - $112 - an ultra-hydrating cream that works overnight to deliver soft, supple skin by replenishing moisture and providing essential nourishment while sleeping to wake up to brighter, glowing skin. The formula contains SakuraBright Complex - delivers essential nourishment to maximize the skin’s natural reparative cycle and reduce the look of fine lines while you sleep; cherry blossom extract -  promotes the appearance of skin radiance with hydration; ascorbyl glucoside - a stabilized form of vitamin C that brightens to help temporarily diminish the appearance of dark spots, improve the appearance of skin tone and revitalize the look of skin’s radiance; birch leaf extract - hydrates to help promote luminescent, flawless-looking skin; licorice root extract - hydrates, leaving skin with a vibrant, healthy-looking, natural glow; and cucumber, watercress, and red clover extracts - to moisturize to soothe skin.

RE9 Advanced Brightening Eye Cream - 15g - $79 - with a fast acting formula that locks in moisture and help reduce the look of fine lines, puffiness and dark circles while brightening the look of skin around the eyes. The formula contains SakuraBright Complex - helps the delicate skin around the eyes look brighter and more youthful;  cherry blossom extract - promotes the appearance of skin radiance with hydration; birch leaf extract -  hydrates to help promote luminescent, flawless-looking skin; licorice root extract - hydrates, leaving skin with a vibrant, healthy-looking, natural glow; stabilized vitamin C - helps improves the appearance of skin tone and helps revitalize the look of skin’s radiance with hydration; caffeine -  reduces the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, helping to restore the appearance of youthful radiance through hydration; and olive squalane - containing omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to replenish the skin’s natural lipid barrier to support moisturization for smooth, healthy-looking skin.

The whole line (other then the Protective Lotion and Eye Cream) are lightly fragranced with a sparkling rose scent derived from natural botanicals and essential oils.

Best of all, if you are looking to score the whole collection, you can buy it all for a special price of $419!

Available now from your Arbonne rep - you can locate a consultant or shop online at www.arbonne.ca.

- 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 -

New Year, new glow with Pixi Glow Tonic!

Rough night, season or even year? Perk your skin up and help it get it's glow back with:

Pixi Glow Tonic - 100ml - $20 - an instant glow enhancer with an alcohol free formula that contains 5% glycolic acid to exfoliate, brighten and smooth skin while aloe vera, ginseng and botanical extracts work together to nourish and treat

Pixi Glow Tonic To-Go - 60 pads - $22 -  Everything you love about the Glow Tonic in travel-friendly, pre-soaked pads to tone, brighten, hydrate and gently exfoliate for clean renewed skin on the go. 

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie - 

For Beloved One Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Collection

Any skin type with a yen for brighter skin need look no further then the latest and greatest collection from For Beloved One - Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key - containing dual-brightening mechanisms Lumiskin and Wonderlight that work together to reverse dull, uneven skin and  encourage skin-darkening enzymes to remain in hibernation for brighter skin that looks clear and healthy.

With 5 products in the collection that each contain exclusively-formulated brightening ingredients that treat and encourage healthy and brilliant skin:

Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Toner - 200ml - $52.99 - accelerates metabolism, softens skin and brings ultimate luminosity to skin by stopping the cycle of dark spots and hyperpigmentation while helping remove dead skin cells and accelerate skin metabolism for softer skin while also enhancing its barrier function.

Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Lotion - 50ml - $45.99 - contains botanical extracts to strengthen skin, inhibit dark spots, prevent pigmentation and encourage brightness to improve dull and dark skin for a brighter more even complexion. It also contains olive leaf extract Eurol BT to provide skin repair throughout the day and vitamin B3 to prevent the appearance of dullness in the skin.

Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Bio-Cellulose Mask - 3 masks - $62.99 - lovely, thick sheet masks that induct active ingredients deep within the skin for a rapid brightening effect including Matrixyl 3000 that penetrates deep into the skin generating collagen and elastin for plump, bright skin.

Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Essence - 30ml - $79.99 - immediately brightens skin to stop the cycle of dark spot generation and restore brilliance to its appearance while the Multifruit BSC in the formula also penetrates deep within the skin to fade spots for a flawless and clear appearance.

Melasleep Brightening Lumi's Key Jelly - 50ml - $69.99 - stops hyperpigmentation, prevents the generation of dark spots and unveils brightness with Dermawhite WF which releases into the skin overnight - also contains rosa alba extract to calm and soothe fatigued skin and white wine extract to keep skin vibrant and moisturized.

Available now at T&T stores across Canada and online at YesStyle.ca.

- Lisamarie -

You're 3 steps closer to clear skin with Neutrogena, Life Brand and NeoStrata!

In these hot summer months breakouts can be even more of a problem which is why you need a good acne treatment regime - to be really effective, it should involve several steps including the removal of excess oil from the skin, the unblocking of clogged pores and treatment of the bacteria associated with acne - there's a delicate balance though of doing all of that without drying out the skin - so here's are a few trios that will help clear you up the right way:

Neutrogena Rapid Clean Stubborn Acne Solution Kit - $29.99 - a 3-step regimen to actively and effectively fight size, redness and number of acne breakouts for visible results in just 4-hours. The set includes:  

Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser - 125ml - a refreshing facial cleanser that lathers into a rich, creamy foam that quickly dissolves pore clogging dirt, makeup and oil without over drying  for skin that feels clean and fresh and appears shine-free for hours.

Rapid Clear  Stubborn Acne Daily Leave-On Mask - 56ml - with a gel formula that vanishes instantly into skin, allowing acne medicine to absorb deep down, killing acne-causing bacteria and keeps working all day to fight both current breakouts and the acne forming under the surface of the  skin. When used daily, it helps keep breakouts away to control stubborn acne, all without over-drying skin. Unlike traditional masks, this is not a wash off - instead, it stays on the skin, allowing the acne medicine to work hard hour after hour. It also dries clear so it can be used under moisturizer or makeup. 

Moisture Oil-Free Sensitive Skin Lotion - 120ml - a lightweight, water-based, alcohol-free  moisturizer that vanishes into skin providing gentle yet effective moisturization for even the most sensitive skin without leaving it greasy or shiny.

Available now at drug, grocery and mass retailers across Canada.

Life Brand Clear Action Active Anti-Acne Treatment Kit - $19.99 - a 3-step acne system that targets the root causes of acne: oil production, bacteria and dead skin cell build-up.

Step 1: Renewal Cleanser - 118ml - gently removes dirt, oil and dead skin cells, while preventing and killing acne bacteria to leave skin without over-drying it.

Step 2: Revitalizing Toner - 118ml - cleans, conditions, and rejuvenates skin with an alcohol-free formula containing witch hazel, aloe vera and chamomile to restore skin's natural balance. 

Step 3: Repairing Treatment - 59ml - with benzoyl peroxide that fights acne and penetrates pores to control acne pimples - treating active breakouts and preventing future ones.

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

NeoStrata Acne Clear Clarifying Gel Cleanser - 200ml - $24.50 - with 2% salicylic acid, it deep cleanses and penetrates pores to wash away bacteria, oil and impurities, unclog pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, dry and help clear up acne pimples, while soothing skin.

NeoStrata Acne Clear Clarifying Solution - 200ml - $29.50 - highly concentrated in glycolic acid and salicylic acid to unclog pores, dry and help clear up acne pimples to leave skin even more exfoliated and clear.

NeoStrata Glycolic Renewal 10% Smoothing Lotion - 50ml - $42 - the perfect daily oil-free moisturizing lotion for combination to oily skin that features 10% glycolic acid to hydrate and  exfoliate the dead cells on skin’s surface while maximizing skin renewal - to help reveal a smoother, even, more radiant and visibly younger looking skin.

Available at drugstores across Canada.

Also keep in mind that acne treatments can make the skin sensitive so make sure you don't forget the sunscreen - go for  a non-comedogenic one with full-spectrum UVA and UVB of at least SPF 30 - like this one:


Avon Sun + Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 40 - 88ml - $9.99 - a lightweight lotion with an oil-free formula that absorbs quickly and is water-resistant for 80 minutes.

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

- Lisamarie -

Take Control of your oiliness and pores with Ole Henriksen!

Ole Henriksen Control was created to help achieve a true mind/skin balance,  by controlling oil and refining pores without stripping the skin. Addressing two of the top five skincare concerns – oiliness and pores – Balance effectively reduces shine, minimizes pores, and evens skin texture for a matte, healthier-looking complexion.

Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser - 147ml - $30 - reduces excess oil and deeply cleanses pores. Formulated with Green Fusion Complex and neem seed oil, its deep cleansing action helps unclog and purify pores without stripping skin, while the invigorating eucalyptus scent awakens the senses. Powerful AHAs - glycolic and lactic acids - help loosen and lift dead skin cells that can cause pore-clogging build-up. Instantly, the complexion is refreshed and balanced with a healthy-looking glow.

Balancing Force Oil Control Toner - 193ml - $32 - effectively removes excess oil and refines pores, while refreshing with an energizing eucalyptus-peppermint scent without stripping skin. Formulated with Green Fusion Complex, a powerful blend of both BHA and AHAs - salicylic, glycolic and lactic acids along with neem seed oil, its gentle clarifying action helps unclog, purify, and minimize the appearance of pores for a complexion that is instantly fresh and invigorated with a matte, healthy-looking glow.

Counter Balance Oil Control Hydrator - 50ml - $42 - with a lightweight, mattifying formula  powered by Green Fusion Complex, a proprietary blend of potent active botanicals with natural antiseptic properties - combined with neem seed oil and powerful AHAs, it helps keep pores clear and skin matte all day long while maintaining optimal hydration and a healthy balance. This formula also significantly improves the wear of foundation for up to eight hours, making makeup meltdown a thing of the past. The complexion is soft, smooth, and refreshed with a healthy-looking, matte glow.

Available now at Sephora and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

For Beloved One Advanced Anti-Aging Squalene Skincare Collection

For Beloved One launches a new collection of skincare that combats aging, stressed and sleep-deprived skin and helps fight the signs of water loss, fine lines, dullness and loss of firmness thanks to a ceramide squalene formula that will have you looking in the mirror at dramatically younger looking skin!

Available in the collection:

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Toner - 150ml - $54.99 - a moisturizing toner that replenishes nutrients with squalane and ceramide II while enhancing the skin's defense ability along with hyaluronic acid serves as a deep moisturizer and pacifeel, a natural soothing extract from the Mirabilis jalapa plant, stabilizes, soothes and repairs.

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Lotion - 50ml - $54.99 - firms and nourishes skin with ceramide and squalane to combat fine lines while restoring elasticity and plumpness along with shea butter for it's anti-oxidant factors and vitamins to provide a rejuvenating flow of youthful energy.

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Bio-Cellulose Mask - 3 masks - $62.99 - infused with ceramide and squalene to replenish skin nutrition lost with age along with matrixyl 3000 to penetrate the dermis to restore firmness and plumpness from the inside out.

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Serum - 30ml - $90 - helps repair fatigued skin with lifting technology found in red tourmaline for skin that appears firm, elastic and plump.

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Eye Cream - 15ml - $67.99 - deeply nourishes and defends against aging skin around the eyes with ceramide and squalene to enhance skin's defense mechanism, while eyeliss firms skin and red tourmaline promotes microcirculation for skin that looks brighter and revitalized.

Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Moisturizing Cream - 32ml - $99 - a rich cream that provides skin with concentrated energy, making it a great night treatment. Contains ceramide - to smooth skin's outermost layer while also enhancing its self-defense abilities for an ageless, youthful look; squalane - to provide additional nourishment for a supple and firm appearance; red tourmaline - to activate microcirculation for elastic and nourished skin; and vitamin E and natural oat kernel extract - repair damage and regenerate skin for a flawless and luminous complexion.

Available now at T&T stores across Canada and online at YesStyle.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Enhance your skin care with Beautycounter + !

Beautycounter + offers three collections of targeted treatments formulated with safer ingredients to enhance your daily skin care regimen according to skin type:

1 Brightening Collection - perfect for all skin types, especially those concerned with dull skin and uneven tone, it's infused with a multi-source, antioxidant rich vitamin C complex to reawaken dull skin, reduce the appearance of age spots and boost radiance for a brighter complexion.

2 Plumping Collection - perfect for all skin types, especially those concerned with dryness, loss of elasticity and fine lines, it's formulated with powerful peony and jasmine essences to restore, plump, firm and improve elasticity in moisture-repleted skin.

3 Balancing Collection - $160 - perfect for all skin types, especially those concerned with clarity, calming and balancing, it's infused with activated charcoal and ylang ylang to absorb excess oil and gently refine oily, uneven skin for a smooth, polished appearance.

Each 3-piece collection includes a facial mask, oil and mist that can also be purchased separately:

Facial Mask - 60ml - $55 - formulated with kaolin clay and without any artificial colourants or synthetic fragrances, they clean deeply, brighten, tighten skin and gently draw out impurities - use 2 to 3 times weekly after cleansing.

No matter what set you decide to go with, it's a great idea to pick up an extra mask or two from the other collections - nobody's skin is the same all over and there's no reason you have to put the same mask on all over - I like to use the Balancing mask on my t-zone, Plumping mask on my neck and the Brightening mask everywhere else!

Facial Mist - 47ml - $43 - instantly prep skin, set makeup and provide refreshing hydration throughout the day with an active-infused, alcohol, silicone and sulfate free formula - use on bare skin after cleansing and/or over makeup to set.

Facial Oil - 20ml - $79 - formulated with a proprietary blend of seven lightweight and silky smooth pure oils free of synthetic or mineral oils to provide intense hydration to even the most delicate of skin - use nightly before applying moisturizer.
And if you like to take your products on the go - Beautycounter + Mini Spa Sets are also available for $110 a set.

Available online and through independent consultants - check out www.beautycounter.com for more info.

- Lisamarie -