Mix up some summer skin perfection with Vivier, Rare Beauty, Fenty Beauty, Nivea and Real Techniques!

There was a time when summer's arrival meant a complete skincare and makeup migration. Rich moisturizers? Banished. Full-coverage foundations? Exiled until October. Everything got swapped for lighter, breezier versions. 

 

Then I had a revelation: I don't actually need new products. I just need to play cosmetic chemist! And frankly, any beauty routine that makes me feel like I'm in a lab concocting potions is automatically more fun. 

 

You're going to do some mixing. You can use the back of your hand if you're feeling adventurous, but a small saucer will make a lot less of a mess - because you could inadvertently scratch yourself with your hand covered in product... I'm not saying I did this (I did this)...

 

Step One: Moisturize and Protect

 

I still love a rich moisturizer, even in summer, and right now I'm using: 

 

Vivier Intensive Hydrating Moisturizer - 55ml - $190

 

A rich, restorative moisturizer formulated with a Ceramide-Lipid Complex, Hyaluronic Hydration Complex, Squalane, Panthenol and a Collagen Peptide Complex to replenish moisture and leave skin looking nourished and supple. 

 

A couple of pumps is my usual dose, but for this experiment, I use about half that amount. Then I add sunscreen because we are not spending all this money on skincare just to lizard ourselves in the sun.

 

Keeping it in the family, I'm using: 

 

Vivier Sheer SPF30 Mineral Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Sunscreen - 60ml - $72

 

A lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and a radiant, dewy finish. Enriched with Vitamins C and E, it hydrates and brightens while protecting skin without feeling greasy. 

 

Both are available at clinics and dermaspas across Canada - check out https://www.vivierskin.ca to find one near you or to buy directly from the website.

 

Step Two: Add some colour

 

Next, I add about half a pump of foundation. Most of it goes into my little concoction, but I keep a tiny bit off to the side of the saucer for later. 

 

My latest foundation obsession is: 

 

Rare Beauty True to Myself Natural Matte Longwear Foundation - 30ml - $52 - in 48 shades ranging from a very light Fair Neutral up to a very dark Deep Cool

 

It's one of those rare unicorn foundations that somehow manages to be breathable, long-wearing and humidity-proof while still looking like actual skin. Revolutionary, really. What's also really innovative is the bottle itself which highlights accessibility. From its ergonomic, hand-fitting curves to a custom push-button lock that eliminates the need for a cap (and the use of two hands), every detail is intentional - if you also fight every time to open an Aspirin bottle, you will appreciate someone finally making things easier for us!

 

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

 

Step Three: Bring On the Glow 

 

Because summer skin should glow, not resemble a disco ball, I add a dash of: 

 

Nivea Luminous Skin Glow Instant Glow Serum - 30ml - $41.99 

 

A lightweight glow-boosting serum featuring Niacinamide, Aloe Vera and Nivea's patented LUMINOUS630 technology to help visibly reduce dark spots, smooth skin, refine the look of pores and deliver an instant healthy-looking radiance as well as improve the look of skin over time. 

 

It adds just a touch of luminosity to make me look healthy and well-rested instead of sweaty and reflective. Think "I drink all my water and get eight hours of sleep every night" energy… even if the reality is caffeine and questionable life choices. 

 

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada. 

 

Step Four: Fake the Vacation 

 

Actual tanning? Absolutely not. Sun damage is a hard pass. 

 

Instead, I reach for bronzer. You can mix it directly into your concoction for an all-over sun-kissed effect, but I like to keep a small amount of this off to the side of my saucer as well. And because powder bronzer is feeling a little... last season, I've been loving: 

 

Fenty Beauty by Rhianna Sun Stalk'r Soufflé Bronzer - $52.50 - in 8 shades: Suga Cookie - light with neutral undertones; Biscotti - light to light medium with neutral undertones; Churro Twist - light-medium to medium with light golden neutral undertones; Maple Glaze - medium to medium-deep with neutral warm undertones; Brown Butt'r - medium to medium-deep with golden neutral undertones; Sweet Truffle - medium-deep to deep with neutral bronze undertones; Coffee Toffee - deep with warm bronze undertones; and Hot Fudge - deep with neutral bronze undertones.

 

It's a pressed mousse with this ridiculously bouncy texture that melts into the skin and gives the kind of believable warmth that says, "I spent the weekend in Tuscany," even if you've actually spent it folding laundry. 

 

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

 

Step Five: The Tools 

 

Use your fingers. Use a sponge. I won't stop you. 

 

But I'm firmly Team Brush, specifically: 

 

Real Techniques Bubble Blending Brush - $16.99

 

It has a dense, rounded shape that is basically foolproof and blends powders, creams and liquids beautifully. 

 

Available at Walmart, Jean Coutu and Real Canadian Superstore locations across Canada and online at well.ca and amazon.ca. 

 

Now comes the fun part. Swirl everything together on your saucer until you've created your own bespoke tinted foundation. It's completely customizable, uses products you already own and can be tweaked daily depending on whether your skin is thirsty, dull, cranky or all three. 

 

Once I've buffed it all over my face, I go back with a small brush and the little blob of foundation I saved to use as a concealer wherever some extra coverage is needed. Then I pick up my big brush again - which still has traces of moisturizer clinging to it - and dip into the bronzer on the saucer before applying it to my cheeks, forehead and nose.

 

The leftover moisturizer softens and diffuses the bronzer, making it melt into the skin instead of sitting on top of it. 

 

Basically, it's summer makeup for people who like to save money, shop their own stash and occasionally pretend they're cosmetic scientists mixing up a magic potion in their beauty lab. 

 

So grab a saucer, channel your inner cosmetic chemist and get mixing - your perfect summer skin formula is probably already sitting in your makeup drawer!

 

- Lisamarie - 

Fight skin dehydration with Arbonne Bio-Hydria!

The weather is changing and so are our skin care needs. Any skin type -  balanced, dry or oily - can become dehydrated. A mix of external elements such as diet, environmental factors like pollution and sun exposure, along with internal factors such as age can all play a role in sapping hydration from the skin leaving it dull and gloomy.

Arbonne Bio-Hydria to the rescue! A brand new skin care line designed to pump up dehydrated skin with refreshing hydration with a formula  featuring edulis cellular water - a powerful moisture-magnet succulent with leaves that have the super-power ability to manage and maintain water absorption, formulated to leave skin plump and super-duper moisturized; and sustainably sourced aloe vera - contains vitamins and minerals taken from the inner part of the leaf, to help moisturize and support skin’s natural ability to maintain a healthy-looking glow.

Available in the collection:

Bio-Hydria Gel Cleanser - 125ml - $24 -  lathers into a delicate foam that cushions skin as it rids the surface of makeup and impurities with gentle, plant-based surfactants for mild yet effective cleansing. Includes organic witch hazel in the formula to help moisturize, soothe, soften, tone, refresh and revitalize the skin so it’s left feeling comfortable, not tight.

Bio-Hydria Liquid Serum - 30ml - $45 -  a lightweight serum that boasts a crushed jelly texture that cools and soothes skin that while providing immediate hydration and replenishment. The formula includes organic witch hazel, cultivated in the south of France that moisturizes to soothe, soften, tone, refresh and revitalize the appearance of the skin• for a healthy-looking glow and a dewy finish.

Bio-Hydria Eye Gel - 15ml - $42 - a soothing gel that deeply hydrates and perks up tired under-eyes with pearlescent pigments that help visibly brighten the appearance of dark circles.

Bio-Hydria Gel Cream - 50ml - $40 - with a pudding-like, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly to soothe and moisturize skin leaving it feeling incredibly soft and supple for up to 48 hours. The formulas includes organic witch hazel, cultivated in the south of France which moisturizes to soothe, soften, tone, refresh and revitalize the appearance of the skin• and support skin’s natural ability to maintain a healthy-looking glow.

This is my favourite product from the line, the texture is just amazing! I have combination skin so generally everything that is super-hydrating feels way to heavy but this cream is so light but still adds so much moisture, it's amazing!

Bio-Hydria Herbal Infusion Tea - 20 x 1g - $18 - contains a caffeine-free antioxidant blend of chamomile, rosemary, and thyme that supports skincare with hydration from the insi.de out

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

- Lisamarie -

Summer skincare made easy with SkinCeuticals!

I don't know about you but I tend to get a bit lazy with my skin in the summer - my skin gets oily so I don't tend to moisturize as much - to be honest, I try to do as little as possible - so if I only use 3 things on my skin this summer, these would be a great choice:

My most important summer skincare step is sunscreen - this one is nice and light so doesn't feel like it's clogging up my pores and has a bit of a tint to even things out - especially great since I usually want to skip foundation:

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 - 30ml - $46.00 -
a sheer, tinted sunscreen fluid with 100% mineral filters to provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, while promoting natural radiance and a more even skin tone without a white cast and is water resistant for up to 40 minutes.

I don't usually bother with a moisturizer in the summer but I still want something super-light on my skin working hard to make it look better - the addition protection benefits are a big bonus:

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF - 30ml - $175.00 - a daytime vitamin C antioxidant face serum that delivers advanced environmental protection and remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours - it  neutralizes damaging free radicals, improves the appearance of discolouration to even out overall skin tone and diminishes the appearance of fine lines.

At the end of the day I want to make sure to remove all that dirt, sweat, makeup and sunscreen that my skin has accumulated:

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel - 240ml - $49.00 - an exfoliating gel cleanser that removes excess oil and makeup as it decongests pores, smoothes skin texture and brightens skin with a blend of salicylic acids to address breakouts and visible signs of aging.

Prefer a cream cleanser? Then check out SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser my absolute favourite cleanser for taking off sunscreen!

Available at SkinCeuticals dermaspas and online at SkinCeuticals.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Give your skin a lift with Lierac Lift Integral!

Whether you are reluctant to have a facelift and/or injections and seek an effective cosmetic solution or have already had a facelift and/or injections and wish to prolong the effects, there's a new line from Lierac that you will want to check out - Lierac Lift Integral!

At the heart of the lift-injection formula is mahogany extract and  purple tulip extract along with an exclusive ingredient - Hyalu-3 perfect for skin in it's 40's and 50's looking to perk up - available in the collection:

Lift Integral Superactivated Lift Serum Firmness Booster - 30ml - $110 - reinvigorates, boosts the elasticity and firmness of the skin, giving both an immediate lift upon application as well as long-term benefits - with a formula that also includes pea peptides for a tension and volumizing effect.  

Lift Integral Sculpting Lift Cream - 50ml - $100 - corrects sagging to restore a positive facial expression - with a formula that includes candolle flower oil, derived from tiare flower - for it's moisturizing properties - its various fatty acids (caprylic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid and omega-6) are essential for strengthening the skin barrier and maintaining a proper level of hydration. 

Lift Integral Restructuring Lift Cream Night - 50ml - $100 - blurs cheeks and redefines the bottom of the face to restore a positive facial expression with a formula that includes ginger for its draining and refining action.

Lift Integral Eye Lift Serum Eyes and Lids - 15ml - $75 - works on drooping eyelids, a sad appearance, bags and dark circles with a formula that includes acacia and datura for their anti-dark circle/anti-puffiness action.

And my favourite from the line:

Lift Integral Flash Lift Mask - 75ml - $80 - an express treatment that offers the perfect pick-me-up for the skin and offers a tightening effect/glow at the end of a treatment routine, before applying makeup or before an evening out to retighten and reinvigorate features instantly. With two natural biopolymers that form a resistant and flexible film with the surface of the skin for an immediate stretching and soothing sensation that also provides an excellent base for makeup.

Available now at drugstores across Canada and online at lierac.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Avon Beauty Boost Face Masks

Avon Beauty Boost Face Masks - 6 x 8g - $30 - a 7 piece boxed set that includes 6 targeted masks along with a bonus 15ml Super Booster Serum that maximizes each mask's benefits.

Masks include:

Brightening Mask Clay - glow with green tea and vitamin C
Detox Mask Clay - purify with charcoal and green clay
Soothing Mask Cream - gently calm with aloe vera
Moisturizing Mask Cream - hydrate with hyaluronic acid
Firming Mask Gel - tone with green coffee and honey
Energizing Mask Cream - revitalize with ginger and caffeine

Apply the serum first and then use your choice of mask alone or mix and match to target specific areas of the face with different masks.

My favourite is the energizing mask - the perfect way to perk up the skin after a night of tossing and turning!

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

- Lisamarie -

Phyto Phytodensia offers renewed youthfulness for hair!

Phyto has formulated a new hair care ritual specifically intended for hair losing its beauty over time, or less politely, aging hair - Phytodensia - to bring back hair that is bold, voluptuous and youthful by delivering action on the hair fiber morphology and the aging scalp.

Available in the collection:

Plumping Shampoo - 200ml - $30 - gently cleanses the hair fiber with a wonderfully light lather that diffuses its anti-aging active ingredients including vernonia, grape extract, hyaluronic acid and acacia collagen on the scalp to restore volume and youth for hair that looks more beautiful and reveals a newfound volume, full of lightness and softness.

Unlike most shampoos, which most people try to get on and off as quickly as possible, you'll want to apply this one and let it sit for a bit to give the active ingredients time to do their thing!

Fluid Plumping Mask - 175ml - $54 -  brings body and substance to hair with a formula enriched with hyaluronic acid and acacia collagen to recharge the hair fiber instantly creating body without weighting it down leaving hair revitalized, shiny and voluptuous.

Plumping Serum - 30ml - $48 - with a non-oily formula stimulates the scalp and works like a booster form the roots up to transform devitalized hair by delivering the highest concentration of vernonia and grape extracts while hyaluronic acid and acacia collagen deliver complementary replumping properties - day after day, hair becomes stronger, more resistant, with new shine and luster.

After using the system you can look forward to hair that is stronger, more radiant, more alive-looking and stronger every day!

Available at Murale stores across Canada and online at phyto-canada.ca and beautyboutique.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Cover FX Custom Blot Drops!

Cover FX Custom Blot Drops - 30ml - $52 - non-drying, oil-absorbing drops that add a mattifying effect to liquid skincare of cosmetic products including serum, moisturizer, primer and foundation or can be applied directly to your skin before or after makeup - to help you eliminate shine at any step of your beauty routine.

The formula balances the skin - specifically those that are combination, oily and acne-prone - with a complex of ingredients that control excess oil; while exfoliating salicylic acid helps keep pores clear; cucumber extract and papaya fruit help hydrate skin to keep it from feeling tight; and chamomile extract soothes and tones.

My favourite way to use it is a few times a day as a substitute for blotting papers in my oily t-zone area - unlike blotting papers, it gets rid of the shine without rubbing off my foundation!

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Solutions Kit

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Solutions Kit - $54 - with all the essentials for a complete treatment regimen for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to achieve smoother and younger looking skin including: Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Booster Serum - 15ml, Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer - 15ml, Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Eye Treatment - 7.5ml along with a sample of Stem Cellular Lifting Neck Cream.

Containing a proprietary blend of fruit stem cells infused into vitamin C and organic resveratrol-rich grapeseed for powerful age defying results in just 6 weeks - the kit is the perfect way to try the line without committing big money to full sized products!

Available now at Murale stores across Canada and online at www.murale.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Bioderma Hydrabio Serum!

Loving the summer heat but not so crazy about what it's doing to your skin? I'm with you - and since I'm not crazy about using a moisturizer this time of year because it just ends up feeling heavy on my skin - a serum is the perfect option - all the moisture without the weight. If your skin is super dry you might want to layer it under your regular moisturizer but if you're combination to oily you'll probably find a serum to be enough on it's own. Here's the one gracing my face right now:

Bioderma Hydrabio Serum - 40ml - $42.95 - with a smooth, extra-fresh texture that has an instant and lasting moisturizing effect to add 57% hydration, smooth the skin and restore radiance. The serum retrains the skin to moisturize itself by activating its natural moisturizing capacities by stimulating the production of aquaporins - water channels in the skin - and retaining the water it needs to be balanced.

Available at drugstores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Layer your way to beautiful skin with SkinCeuticals!

Some of you may be under the impression that there is no reason to worry about the sun and the damage it does to the skin - because hey, it's winter and we barely see any sun, right?! Wrong! The sun may feel weak, but the bad effects it has on the skin is still strong so don't skin on the protection both day and night with an easy routine...

Start with a dose of:

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF - 30mL - $160 - with 2% Phloretin, 10% L-ascorbic and 0.5% ferulic acid - oily, problematic or normal skin concerned with hyperpigmentation and age spots, uneven skin tone, loss of laxity or mottled skin appearance will love this broad-spectrum treatment, which protects against not only free radicals, but the range of other reactive molecules known to cause damage and DNA mutations among the integral cell types. 

In addition, it corrects existing damage by stimulating the synthesis of essential proteins and fibers and accelerating cell turnover. The result — a strengthened support structure on the inside and a more youthful, firm, radiant appearance on the outside.

Follow this up with a layer of:

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 - 50ml - $39 - provides high broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with all natural physical filters, zinc oxize and titanium dioxide - in an ultra-sheer, mattifying fluid that's suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

What makes it really interesting is that it's infused with translucent colour spheres meant to enhance your natural skin tone. And unlike most products that do this universal colour thing that always end up being too dark for us fair ones - this one actually does adjust to my shade and blend right in!

This fits right in for my love of tinted moisturizers and BB creams, neither of which ever have a SPF high enough to satisfy me. I can see this being my wonder-product on humid, sticky days when I just can't be bothered with foundation but still want to look polished - it really is so lightweight that it feels like you're wearing nothing so on hot days it won't feel like it's melting off your face!

Just remember that layering the two products together will not only protect you from the sun's rays, but also from IRA-induced free radicals which are responsible for accelerated skin aging - which your sunscreen alone won't protect you from.

And before you go to sleep you'll want some:

SkinCeuticals Resveratrol B E Antioxidant Night Concentrate - 30ml - $165 - boosts skin's internal antioxidant defense system with a trio of antioxidants: 1% Resveratrol, 0.5% Baicalin and 1% Vitamin E - to help maximize its nighttime reconstruction potential with comprehensive visible repair for accumulated damage that neutralizes age-accelerating internal free radicals; strengthens functionality to resist new damage; and promotes skin's natural repair to diminish the signs of accumulated damage so you can wake up to skin with improved firmness, smoothness and overall radiance.

SkinCeuticals is available through selected distribution channels via dispensing doctors, medical spas and high-end spas across Canada. For store locator please visit www.skinceuticals.com, or call 1-877-238-8754. 

- Lisamarie -

Repair hair with a serum from L'Oréal Professionnel, Sally Hershberger and Kerastase!

L'Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Sealing Repair Lipidium Double Serum - 30ml - $27 - a reconstructing, split end sealing blend of serum and cream for very damaged hair. With an advanced formula enriched with a lipidium complex containing a resurfacing ceramide - to replenish, lock in essential nutrients and coat hair against new aggressions.

Available at L'Oréal Professionnel salons across Canada -  find one near you at www.lorealprofessionnel.ca.

 

Sally Hershberger Hyper Hydration Spray Serum - 50ml - $12.99  -penetrates hair to deliver a weightless mist of shine and targeted conditioning. Contains Smart Keratin - to target damage and spot treat with deep conditioning and Pro-Vitamin B5 - to condition and strengthen hair while providing a weightless boost of moisture for smooth hair that has a high gloss, weightless shine with flexibility and movement.

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Kérastase Cristalliste Cristal Sculpt Dual Sculpting Serum - 30ml - $42 - with dual-action effectiveness that includes a serum to repair the hair and a gloss to make it beautifully shiny. Enriched with AHA which helps strengthen interior hair fibers, leaving hair hydrated and illuminated, with a healthy mirror like glossy glow.

 Available now  at Kérastase salons across Canada and online at kerastase.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - La Roche-Posay Substiane [+] Serum

As the years go by, you'll notice that skin loses volume and gradually becomes thinner and more fragile. Looking for some visible improvements for these issues? Then you need to check out:

La Roche-Posay Substiane [+] Serum - 30ml - $78 - fights overall loss of volume in mature and sensitive skin with a light, non-greasy gel-based formula that creates a rich, creamy, melt-in texture that easily penetrates skin to get to work quickly.

The formula combines the efforts of LR2412, a derivative of jasmonic acid which protects the skin's barrier function and Pro-Xylane which recreates skin's density deep down - together creating a brand new way to restore substance and structure to the depths of skin cells for skin that is denser, feels full to the touch and is re-plumped, radiant and comfortable.

This all sounds great so we had a few of our lovely readers test it out and tell us what they really think...

Lynn - 64 - It was very smooth to apply, with a light, pleasant fragrance. It DOES have a rich, creamy, melt-in texture that easily penetrates skin. The claim is that skin feels denser, feels full to the touch, and is re-plumped, radiant and comfortable. and I am delighted to say I agree! My skin DOES feel denser and comfortable, and I am 64 with skin that seems to be less firm to the touch, and certainly less 'dense' than it used to be. I am very happy with this product and recommend it to anyone with these issues.

Lisa - 43 - The texture of the serum was lovely, light with no discernible scent. It absorbed instantly, prepping my skin for any additional moisturizers. My skin felt extremely soft and smooth. I noted subtle improvement to the skin's tautness along my jawline and neck during the 3 week testing period. Though not specifically recommended, I even found this serum gentle enough to use under my eyes and noted this area appeared generally smoother. In addition, it acted as a great primer before any makeup application. The bottle size made it convenient for travel (and I did bring it along on a trip to San Francisco!) and the pump applicator delivered just the right amount of product

Rajbinder - 38 - I have started to notice some volume loss in my face, particularly in the cheek and naso labial fold areas.This product claims to restore substance & structure deep within the skin cells. After 2 weeks of use, I can't say I've noticed an incredible difference, however, my skin does feel more radiant & feels somewhat full to the touch. I believe with continued use I will be able to see a substantial improvement with the plumpness in my problem areas. Oh, my skin does look softer!

- Lisamarie -

Schwarzkopf Professional relaunches BC Hairtherapy for ultimate hair perfection!

Schwarzkopf Professional BC Hairtherapy was been improved and repackaged for product lines that bring hair as close to natural perfection as has ever seen before!

The secret is their new Cell Perfector technology that works on perfecting both the hair surface and hair structure. In its natural, virgin state, hair has a lipid protection layer which consists of molecules with a chain of 21 carbons. External stress, chemical treatments or use of heat styling devices harm the hair surface, eroding that modecule chain. Until now, hair care technologies could only recreate chains of up to 12 molecules, but this new technology refills gaps in the hair's surface with chains of 18 carbons - bringing your hair closer than ever to natural perfection.Simultaneously, within each strand, the technology acts to rebuild the structure of the hair with hair-identical amino-acids chains to renew the hair with strength, elasticity and shine.

There are 6 Hairtherapies to meet any hair need including: Moisture Kick - with hyaluronic acid derivate for normal to dry hair; Repair Rescue - with high concentration proteolipids for damaged hair; Color Freeze - with reactive silane for colour-treated and bleached hair; Smooth Perfect - with amino smoothener for unruly, coarse hair; Volume Boost - with silicone-free formulations for fine hair; and Time Restore - with Q10 and nutrifiller for mature hair.

As part of the relaunch, Schwarzkopf Professional has also developed 5 brand new high-performing hero products that are must-haves for your individual hair type:

Moisture Kick Beauty Balm - 125ml - $17.75 - contains hyaluronic acid derivate to provide intensive rehydration and protection from heat damage to restore hair back to beautiful at a cellular level and adds a healthy looking shine.

Smooth Perfect Smoothing Cream - 125ml - $17.75 - tames frizz for up to four days while deeply nourishing coarse and rebellious hair while offering optimum heat protection and makes hair easier to brush - brings hair under control, making if feel smooth with a healthy-looking shine.

Color Freeze Gloss Serum - 100ml - $17.75 - reduces split ends, protects hair against breakage and adds a mirror-like shine.

Repair Rescue Deep Nourishing Treatment - 200ml - $24.20 - provides in-depth nourishment and intensive repair even for extremely damaged hair, restoring natural strength at a cellular level.

Moisture Kick Treatment - 200ml - $24.20 - a rinse-out emulsion that deeply rehydrates, softens and moisturizes hair at a cellular level.

Available now at Schwarzkopf Professional Partner Salons - find one near you at: www.schwarzkopf-professional.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Skin lost its bounce? Then we need you to test drive La Roche-Posay Substiane [+] Serum!

As the years go by, you'll notice that skin loses volume and gradually becomes thinner and more fragile. Looking for some visible improvements for these issues? Then you need to check out:

La Roche-Posay Substiane [+] Serum - 30ml - $78 - fights overall loss of volume in mature and sensitive skin with a light, non-greasy gel-based formula that creates a rich, creamy, melt-in texture that easily penetrates skin to get to work quickly.

The formula combines the efforts of LR2412, a derivative of jasmonic acid which protects the skin's barrier function and Pro-Xylane which recreates skin's density deep down - together creating a brand new way to restore substance and structure to the depths of skin cells for skin that is denser, feels full to the touch and is re-plumped, radiant and comfortable.

Sound like something your skin is desperate for? Then we need you to test it out for us!

We're looking for 4 outspoken Canadian Beauty Crazed readers with mature and sensitive skin who would like to try out a 3-step La Roche-Posay skin care routine including: Physiological Foaming Water, Substiane [+] Serum and Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 60 and then tell us what you think of them!

It's easy peasy to get in on this - just leave a comment letting us know that you want to be a La Roche-Posay guinea pig and that you are willing to try the products and send back your thoughts on them back to us 2 weeks after receiving the products.

Once you leave your comment, send us an e-mail at info@beautycrazed.ca with your full name and address, if you would also include your age and any skin concerns you have that you think make you a better guinea pig then everyone else that would be helpful. You have until May 7th to enter at which time we will pick 4 readers who are enthusiastic about the trial and giving us the scoop!

- Lisamarie -

In My Shower - Shu Uemura Art Of Hair Ultimate Remedy!

If winter has done a number on your hair too then get ready for the Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ultimate Remedy collection! Inspired by nature's reed which bends but doesn't break, the line looks to strengthen the hair with two technologies: Lotus Infusion - an incredible source of flexibility, moisturizing and softening; and Ceramide - which acts as an inner cement and helps link keratine cells together and fill micro-breaches to perfect the hair shaft.

Extreme Restoration Shampoo - 300ml - $46 - gently purifies while respecting the balance of the scalp.

Extreme Restoration Conditioner - 250ml - $56 - repairs, restores and detangles in an instant.

Extreme Restoration Duo-Serum - 30ml - $56 - seals split ends, tames frizz and magnifies radiance with two unique textures: lotus infusion in the form of an oil and ceramide 2000 in a cream - that join together to penetrate the hair, instantly leaving it more solid, flexible and resistant.

Extreme Restoration Treatment - 200ml - $66 - offers in-depth repairing and nourishing with the highest dosage of ceramide (3000) ever seen in a hair treatment - to leave hair strong yet supple.

Not only is the line doing an excellent job of repairing all the cold weather damage that my hair endured this winter but it has such a lovely scent that it makes taking a shower a spa-like experience! My fave product has to be the Duo-Serum - just a pump and a half on towel dried hair and it leaves my hair smooth and shiny!

Available now at participating Shu Uemura Art of Hair salons and online at www.shuuemura.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Win a 3-step beauty routine from Yves Rocher!

100 Yves Rocher fans now have the chance to test the Yves Rocher 3-Step Beauty Routine that suits your skin type! And your chances of getting in on this are good, 20 winners will be chosen every week until April 10^th!

There are 3 Skin Care lines are available to test:

-          Hydra Vegetal

-          Sebo Vegetal

-          Nutritive Vegetal 

To be eligible just register and fill out a short questionnaire which will determine the skin care line that best suits your skin.

Check it out on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/YvesRocherCanada.

I personally love the Hydra Vegetal line, especially with the crap weather we have going on and this is which product I have been reaching for most:

Yves Rocher Hydra Vegetal Moisture Boost Concentrate - 30ml - $40 - with an ultra-fresh texture that  boosts hydration right from the very first application to revitalize skin from deep within and bring radiance to the skin. Contains an exclusive combination of saps from Canadian maple trees and blue agave plants from Mexico which act as a barrier that locks-in moisture deep within the skin and provide a natural source of immediate and deep hydration - your skin is thoroughly saturated so it receives intense continuous moisture and looks replenished and radiant!

It's the perfect layering product for cold weather to get more moisture without weighing down your skin with a heavy cream - just add a layer of this underneath your regular moisturizer day or night and you are good to cold-weather go!

Available at Yves Rocher stores across Canada, online at www.yvesrocher.ca and by phone at 1-800-361-2746.

- Lisamarie -

Reveal your skin's youthful energy with Yves Rocher Elixir 7.9!

Yves Rocher has a new collection - Elixir 7.9 that aims to smooth 1st wrinkles and signs of fatigue - and you won't have to wonder if it's working, you'll be able to see that it is:

In 1 day - skin appears re-energized
In 1 week - first wrinkles appear smoothed
In 1 month - skin appears radiant with youth

With a formula containing a combination of 7 plants with anti-aging power to boost skin's energy reserves and reactive its youth including: green rice inositol from Japan - to improve radiance and the overall look of the skin; santhorn seed extract from Asia - to improve volume, elasticity and density of the skin; aloe vera polyosides from Mexico - to strengthen the derm as well as strengthen and improve protection and hydration; tara seed extracts from Peru - to improve the skin's cohesion between the derm and the epidermis as well as fight against sagging skin; beet root extract from France - to protect against environmental stressors and dehydration as well as stimulate rehydration; aphloia extract from Madagascar - to protect against environmental stressors; and apple oligosides from France - to smooth wrinkles, boost radiance, refine skin texture and improve the global function of the skin.

Available in the collection are:

Youth Intensifier Serum - 30ml - $56 - with a fluid emulsion texture that penetrates quickly and more concentrated in active ingredients than regular skin care to make it more powerful and effective to leave skin with an incredibly smooth finish

Youth Energy Day Care - Normal to Combination Skin - 40ml - $56 - with a cream gel texture that offers the comfort of a cream combined with the light freshness of a gel.

Youth Energy Day Care - Dry Skin - 40ml - $56 - with a voluptuous, whipped cream texture that is enriched with shea butter for extra nourishment.

Youth Energy Day Care - Sensitive Skin - 30ml - $56 - with a fragrance free, fluid texture that offers the comfort of a cream as it envelops skin in a veil of ultimate softness.

Youth Energy Eye Care Roll-On - 15ml - $42 - with a gel texture that has an instant refreshing effect that revives the eye contour area upon application for eyes that are brighter, wrinkles smoothed and reduced under eye bags and dark circles.

Youth Energy Night Care - 40ml - $56 - with a creamy balm texture that envelops skin in a soft cocoon - in just 1 night skin is re-energized, moisturized with revived radiance upon wakening.

My faves are the Serum, which makes for a perfect layering product under my regular moisturizer for a concentrated dose of the anti-aging ingredients and the Eye Care Roll-On for its no-mess applicator and ability to reduce puffiness!

I also really like, and the environmentally friendly amongst you will really appreciate that there are Eco-Refills available for the Day Care for Normal to Combination and Dry skin as well as the Night Care for $49 - just pop out the old pod and replace it with the new to save money and packaging - as well as the fact that for every Elixir 7.9 product purchased, a tree will be planted as part of the Yves Rocher Foundation's Plant for the Planet operation!

Available now at Yves Rocher stores across Canada and online at www.yvesrocher.ca.

- Lisamarie -

A Honey of a collection from Crabtree & Evelyn and The Body Shop!

You many already love honey on your toast or in your tea but did you know that other then being delicious, it also has amazing moisture, curative and beautifying properties?! Here's a couple of lines you need to check out:

Crabtree & Evelyn English Honey and Peach Blossom - not only smells great, but all the products contain conditioning peach blossom extract and moisturising wild flower honey renowned for its ability to hydrate extremely dry, parched skin. Available in the collection:

Body Wash - 250ml - $20 - an intensely moisturising wash that also contains glycerine.
Body Lotion - 250ml - $22 - lightweight moisture for skin that perfectly moistursed skin.
Body Butter - 250g - $36 - formulated with shea butter and moringa oil for soft and silky smooth skin.
Hand Therapy - 25g - $8, 100g - $20 - an intensive conditioning cream that leaves hands feeling softer with each use. Contains shea butter, macadamia nut oil to moisturise and soften hands, along with myrrh to help condition cuticles and nails.
Glistening Face Serum - 50ml - $32 - apply before moisturiser for intense moisture that contains yeast extract from the blue agave leaf to hydrate.
Moisturising Cream - 50g - $32 - contains shea butter along with hydrating glycerine for ideal moisture.
All Purpose Balm - 15g - $15 - contains shea butter and skin conditioning beeswax for use on any area of skin requiring targeted deep moisturising
Lip Salve - 4.2g - $4 - formulated with soothing and conditioning beeswax, olive fruit oil, sunflower seed oil and shea butter to moisturise and condition.

Available now at Crabtree & Evelyn stores across Canada.

The Body Shop Honeymania - a fragrant collection containing Community Fair Trade rich, wild-harvested floral honey from Ethiopia- available in the collection:

Shower Gel - 250ml - $8 - leaves your body cleansed and subtly scented.
Body Butter - 200ml - $20 - delivers 24 hours of hydration that leaves skin lightly scented and feeling sensationally soft and smooth.
Body Scrub - 200ml - $20 - a rich exfoliating scrub that leaves skin feeling velvety soft and super-smooth.
Bubble Bath Melt - 300ml - $12 - sink into a honeypot of bath bubbles and enjoy an indulgent honey experience.
Eau de Toilette - 30ml - $14 - offers a burst of concentrated honey scent.
Soap - 100g - $4 - with a honeycomb design embellished with an adorable bee.
Lip Balm - 10ml - $6 - melts in straight away for kissable, moisturized lips.

 Available at The Body Shop and online at www.thebodyshop.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Dark spot correction from SkinCeuticals, Yes To Grapefruit and Luminaze!

Ready to rid yourself of the dark spots and patches currently marring your pretty little face? Here's a few products that are up to the job!

SkinCeuticals Advanced Skin Discoloration Corrector - 30ml - $104 - works on all skin ethnicities to correct and prevent unwanted pigmentation on multi-layers of the skin by exfoliating on the surface with salicylic acid; inhibiting melanin transfer at the epidermis wth hydroxyphenoxy propionic acid; blocking excess melanin production at the basal layer with ellagic acid; and strengthening dermal layers to prevent against new and reoccurring pigment with yeast extract.

Available through selected distribution channels via dispensing doctors, medical-spas and high-end spas across Canada - find one near you at www.skinceuticals.com/canada.

Yes To Grapefruit Correct & Repair Dark Spot Correcting Serum - 30ml - $20.99 - harnesses the power of highly concentrated grapefruit to even skin tone, increase luminosity and improve skin's natural radiance along with white tea - an excellent anti-inflammatory and a rich source of vitamins C & E.

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Luminzaze Catalytic Skin Tone Illuminator and Dark Spot Corrector - 30ml - $132 - this two-step treament helps visibly diminish excess pigmentation in the skin to help quickly and safely reduce the appearance of dark spots and age spots to help reveal a visibly brighter, more radiant, even skin tone.
 
Contains an enzyme harvested from a mushroom that grows on trees high in the Swiss Alps. It was noticed that the bark surrounding these mushrooms was decolourized. The same properties that were found by researchers to lighten the colour of the bark, result in helping the skin for a dramatic improvement in the appearance of dark spots from sun and aging.

Free of hydroquinone and fragrance, and is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.

Available online at eskincarestore.com.

It would be a shame to pay all this money just to have the spots and discoulouration come right back so make sure you wear a moisturizer with sunscreen - every day, even when it's cold and doesn't feel like the sun is even out! 

- Lisamarie -