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Tuesday, June 19, 2018
All about: Dermalogica BioLumin-C Serum
The antioxidant properties of vitamin C (AKA ascorbic acid) and its role in collagen synthesis make the sunny-hued little beauty a vital molecule for skin health. Dietary and topical ascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells, and some studies have even shown that vitamin C may help prevent and treat ultraviolet (UV)-induced photodamage. To break the news gently: you NEED the stuff on your face, as well as in your diet. Lucky for us there’s some clever skincare brands doing unique things with it, and formulas to suit every skin.
The latest I’ve been lucky enough to hear about it is Dermalogica’s new BioLumin-C Serum (RRP $159), which arrived on counters this week. A super stable and bioavailable, potent Vitamin C formula to help both reduce and prevent fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and loss of elasticity, its end goal is ‘giving you brighter skin from within’. So what does ‘bioavailable mean?’ you may ask? Well, many topical Vitamin C products contain unstable ingredients that lose efficacy before they're even applied to the skin, or on application. BioLumin-C Serum doesn't talk about the percentage of Vitamin C within the formula, as this doesn't mean anything if it isn't stable or bioavailable.
So how does it do its thing? Well, the high-performance serum works with skin’s own defences to brighten and firm. Advanced bio-technology – the kind of innovation we’ve come to associate with the brand - fuses ultra-stable Vitamin C and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, helping to dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Delivering more Vitamin C into skin, it aims to out perform other Vitamin C products (including those formulated at higher concentrations) due to its clever make up.
Other key ingredients in the heady mix include Vitamin C Complex for brighter, firmer skin, Lactic Acid to accelerate cell turnover, Sophora Japonica Flower Extract to help return skin to a calm state after experiencing oxidative stress, and Salvia Hispanica (AKA Chia Seed) Oil to hydrate and help quench free radicals.
Smooth this baby over a cleansed face and neck morning and night, after toning and before moisturising, and be ready to see a real change in areas like pigmentation and fine lines. I’ve been using it every second day due to my rosacea issues that seem to have reared their ugly head once again, but once that’s left the building I’ll be upping my dose for sure.
Dermalogica's super stable, bioavailable BioLumin-C Serum is available right now from authorised Dermalogica stockists and dermalogica.co.nz
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Monday, June 18, 2018
Love it: Bourjois Healthy Mix Pressed Powder
Powder is one of those beauty products that have a lot of people divided – do you really need it, and why? It’s safe to say however that not all powder is created equal, and the plethora of formulas – and price points – that are all over the marketplace means that there is plenty to choose from, no matter what your skin type.
A new addition to their super popular Healthy Mix range, Bourjois Healthy Mix Pressed Powder calls itself an “anti-fatigue powder”, which is a first for me! It claims to reveal the skin’s radiance while providing an even and matte complexion, a factor that initially made me stop and think. Does an ‘even and matte complexion’ mean it won’t work for a dry skin like mine? How wrong I could be!
Clocking in at a super reasonable RRP $36.00, it is a very clever and unique formula in that it comes enriched with Asian fruit ingredients like yuzu that help give your skin a matte and balanced finish without overloading or drying it out.
A lot of matte powders tend to give me a dull, dry-looking complexion so I usually steer clear, but this one is just so, so different. It’s also a cinch to use as it's quicker than having to shake out loose powder when you’re in a rush, which probably only requires a few more seconds, but time is of the essence in the mornings! It also means less mess in the bathroom, and the slim compact is great to travel with and pop in my handbag for touch ups on the go.
Highly recommended even if your skin is on the dry side, Bourjois Healthy Mix Pressed Powder is available right now in Vanilla, Light Beige, Dark Beige and Light Bronze.
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Friday, June 15, 2018
Beauty news: Revlon’s new Global Brand Ambassador is Mette Towley
Global beauty giant Revlon has announced that the very fierce Ms. Mette Towley, renowned dancer and performance artist, is joining the Revlon family as a new Global Brand Ambassador. Towley, known for her impressive solo performance in N.E.R.D’s "Lemon" video, is the latest amongst the iconic and bold women to represent the brand’s new Live Boldly campaign launched earlier this year.
“As we evolve Revlon’s Live Boldly campaign, we want to continue to celebrate and champion strong, talented and inspirational women,” said Silvia Galfo, Global Brand President of Revlon. “Mette’s passion is present in everything she touches and she truly embodies the Revlon woman today. We are thrilled to have her join as a new Global Brand Ambassador.”
Towley grew up in rural Minnesota before moving to Los Angeles, where for the last four years she has toured internationally as a dancer with the inimitable Pharrell Williams. She has appeared on stage with some of music’s award-winning performers and has leveraged her education and professional career to expand her role behind the camera. The super-inspiring Towley also works as a creative consultant and movement coach for artists on the rise to help them discover their path and passion. She has said that she aspires to broaden the spectrum of her expression into music and acting, and I don’t doubt that she will.
“I’m very grateful and excited to have received this opportunity to partner with Revlon, a brand that supports my passion for beauty and the arts,” said Towley. “I look forward to our partnership being a great catalyst to inspire others to embrace their individuality and live boldly.”
Towley’s first campaign will support the new Revlon Volumazing Mascara that launched in US stores in May 2018 and I’m predicting, will be as dynamic as she is.
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Thursday, June 14, 2018
All about M.A.C x Caroline Daur's Oh, Sweetie Lip Colour
It’s safe to say that M.A.C’s latest launch will give you some serious sugar cravings… Called Oh, Sweetie Lip Colour, it not only comes with names like Funfetti Cake, Sugar Cookies, Banana Muffins and Coconut Macaroon, but an accompanying mouth watering flavour to boot!
Destined to appeal to younger customers and anyone who was addicted to Lip Smackers back in the day, the line is headed up by model and influencer Caroline Daur, whose favourite flavours are reportedly Death by Chocolate and Panna Cotta. The formula is described as "whipped for mousse-like texture" and promises to serve up "funfetti-bright, frosted opaque hues for lips,". It comes in a cupcake sprinkle range of fifteen gorgeous colours, including a blue called Wild Berry Frosting and a green called Key Lime Truffle. YUM.
The patisserie-inspired line was first teased by MAC global makeup artist Dominic Skinner back in April when he used them on models during Fashion Month. He said in Instagram posts that the lip treats are both scented and flavourful - “because you want the full experience”. Who would argue with that?
My pick of shades thus far are the aforementioned Daur fave, Death By Chocolate (a beautiful burgundy), Coconut Macaroon (a very wearable Pinky Beige) and chocolate brown hued Caramel Sugar. Oh, Sweetie Lip Colour is on counter right now at all M.A.C locations – and won’t go straight to your waistline!
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Wednesday, June 13, 2018
How to: Gigi Hadid at the 2018 CFDA Awards
Earlier this month, Maybelline New York spokesmodel Gigi Hadid hit the 2018 CFDA Awards Red Carpet wearing not just eye-catching Versace, but also a Maybelline New York’s fan-favourite in the form of Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick, in Heroine.
Her footed, multicoloured Versace jumpsuit and siren red stilettos were reportedly the inspiration behind Gigi’s makeup look, with makeup artist Erin Parsons focusing on a vivid lip to perfectly match her supermodel style. The rich matte lip paired with her glowing skin was a modern take on a classic look, and lashes were defined but not overdone for an effortlessly glam effect.
To get the look using all Maybelline New York:
1. Erin began by prepping the skin with Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Prime Primer.
2. Following this, she applied the Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer over blemishes and under eyes to brighten up the area.
3. Skin was set with the Maybelline New York Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder in Light for a flawless finish.
4. To start contouring, Erin contoured and bronzed the skin all over lightly using the Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Blush Color and Highlight Kit. She highlighted the top of cheekbones, inner corners of eyes, Cupid's bow and nose using the Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Strobing Stick Illuminating Highlighter in Light Iridescent and Medium Nude Glow by combining both shades.
5. As the first step for eyes, Erin swooshed a light touch of eyeshadow onto the crease using the Maybelline New York Expert Wear Eye Shadow in Tastefully Taupe.
6. Next, Maybelline New York Eyestudio Lasting Drama Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner in Sleek Onyx was applied to the inner rim at the upper lash line for extra definition.
7. For top and bottom lashes, Erin used the Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara in Blackest Black for extra volume.
8. To feather and define brows, Erin used the Maybelline New York Brow Precise Micro Eyebrow Pencil, which is available in New Zealand come July. As a pro tip to keep the eyes looking meticulous, keep every brow hair in place using the Maybelline New York Eyestudio Brow Drama Sculpting Eyebrow Gel in Clear.
9. On lips, Erin applied the Maybelline New York Master Glaze Lip Scrub Stick first and then a touch of the new Maybelline New York Prime It Up Multi-Benefit Lip Primer to ensure that lips were smooth for lipstick application.
10. Finally, she precisely applied the Maybelline New York Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Heroine for a pop of bright colour.
Beauty destination: the new Aesop Wellington store
Today in news of Beautiful New Things, revered skin and bodycare brand Aesop has opened the doors of its inaugural Wellington signature store, which is situated within the historic Change House.
The local is a veritable Wellington landmark that bears the influence of the Art Deco era and the early skyscrapers of the Chicago and New York schools. Designed in collaboration with New Zealand practice Knight Associates, the new 88-square metre space—once occupied by law offices—makes abundant use of natural timber to create a stunning juxtaposition with the structure’s imposing 1930s exterior.
Upon entry, alabaster-painted walls offer immediate contrast to this façade, investing the space with a sense of depth and softness. The large street-facing windows, set deep into the thick masonry, allow a muted light to filter through, effecting a play between light and dark materiality; in particular, between the existing walls and the timber parquetry of the flooring.
Oiled timber wraps the point-of-sale counter and shelving, which curves gently along the rear wall. Here, a capacious sink fitted with aged brass tapware offers a place for product demonstrations; the space beyond houses the Aesop New Zealand Head Office and online retail store.
Like every immaculately presented Aesop store, clients can explore and select from a complete range of skin, hair and body care products, distinguished by botanical and laboratory-generated ingredients of the highest quality. The store’s trained consultants are able to offer advice about products best suited to individual needs, and a trip in store comes highly recommended.
The new Aesop store is at 150 Featherston Street, Wellington.
Monday, June 11, 2018
All about: Plantae skincare's ‘extra love’ for winter
When the temperature drops, it’s a good idea to bring out the big guns when it comes to skincare. And if you’ve got skin that’s on the dry side all year round, boost yourself up with some serious serums and a nourishing foundation to keep your largest organ looking and feeling as hydrated as possible.
It’s always a good idea to track down a richer, heavier cleanser when the temperature plummets, it can definitely help address the dryness that comes with the cooler air and when used correctly can make a real difference to your skin’s health and wellbeing.
With that in mind, I would like to give a shout out to Plantae’s gentle yet effective Pacific Blue Lavender Rich Cream Cleanser. I’ve used several of the New Zealand skincare company’s products in the past and have loved them, and like the rest of their collection the entirely plant based cleanser includes only the finest natural extracts packed full of phytonutrients, to deliver healthy, great skin. And although it may be filled with goodness, it is also grunty enough so that it melts away all traces of face and eye make-up, even stubborn mascara. Suitable for those with dry or damaged skin in particular, it includes a bounty of natural ingredients rich in antioxidants to rejuvenate dry, tired, or dehydrated skin and repair skin damaged by the stresses of daily life. New Zealand Pacific Blue True Lavender essential oil, Auvergne Pine Bark and Blackcurrant Leaf Complex make it smell like pure heaven, while softening Shea Butter and cold pressed Sunflower Seed Oil condition even super dry skin and help makeup and impurities melt away.
As well as this beauty, Plantae has created a new ‘Extra Love’ range, which is designed to let you know what products to select to give your skin a little bit of tender loving care when it needs it the most. In this group is their Sea Buckthorn Berry Night Cream, which is suitable for all skin types. It maximises the skin’s ‘radiance potential’, reducing the signs of damage and ageing and making skin look and feel it’s very best. Sea Buckthorn Berry Night Cream has even been scientifically shown to boost fibroblast production by an amazing 272 per cent, promoting the production of collagen and elastin production and helping with the skin’s natural repair process.
My pick from this bunch though is Plantae Rosehip Fruit and Seed Serum (above), which is a joy to use all year round. The nourishing yet non-greasy serum increases overall skin health and provides an easy to absorb source of vitamins A, B, C and E, also increasing fibroblast production by 272 per cent. Plantae believes in a holistic approach to skincare, and that when you unnecessarily break down botanical and plant extracts they lose their full potency and their true ability to treat skin to its fullest extent. Which is why this baby includes both the Rosehip fruit and the seed extract – making the formula more potently efficacious. Suited to drier skin types for use daily or those looking for an extra hydration boost once or twice weekly, it is super soothing, nourishing and just damn gorgeous to use. If you haven’t discovered it yet then I highly recommend that you do.
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Thursday, June 7, 2018
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