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It’s no secret we Angelino’s prefer a “barely there” look, as we of course love to be beach ready all year round, but where to go when your in need of the service? Stript it all down and head to Stript Wax Bar! Founded in 2009 by Owner Esthetician Katherine Goldman, Karen fulfilled her vision of a boutique dedicated to the art of waxing. Stript is all about wax, waxing techniques, and creating baby smooth skin that is as painless as it can possibly be. Waxing of course is their start service, but are also quite known for their line of clinical facials and spray tanning, treatments that most certainly go hand in hand with a great wax!
AMBIENCE
With hints of lavender, crisp white and a bit of sparkle on the walls, Stript LA is the perfect mix of feminine spa meets a chic boutique environment,
IN CROWD
Best known for it’s quick and painless brazilian waxes given by the brilliant and talented Inez, you’ll find the bar has nothing but rave reviews, though waxing isn’t the only thing bringing people through the door. Stript’s revolutionary, customized 4-step facial for your freshly waxed bikini area… the Vagacial! Beginning with an antibacterial wash and followed by an anti-flammatory astringent (perfect to heal any razor burn or irritating ingrowns) and application of exfoliating gel, the service is finished with a mask of your choice. My personal favorite? the calming mask, a great way to soothe the pain after a wax. At $75 the service is certainly a splurge, but after seeing the results myself, it’s a true must have for every bikini wearing gal!
WALLET WATCH
Prices vary depending on service, “wax packs” are available as well which include a 10% savings on Stript’s most popular services, Brazilian and Brow’s.
NEED TO KNOW
Stript Wax Bar is located at: 8218 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles CA 90048. For appointments call 323-951-9517 or simply book online.
Dry skin is a condition that is partially hereditary, age or caused by medical conditions beyond our control. There are various external factors at play, like taking hot showers, using harsh soaps, shower gels and body scrubs or taking medication with harmful side effects.
I dated a man who always commented on how soft my skin was; he finally confessed that most of the women he dated had dry, parched and rough skin. This omission shocked me. Part of being a woman is having the luxury of caring for yourself, of pampering your skin with lotions and potions so that our skin stays silky to the touch.
There is something sensual in the application of a bust cream or body lotion. If you suffer from dry, irritated and parched skin never fear, there are several new body products available that will help in the fight against dry skin and the good news, they’re for all skin types.
The Favorites:
Need to keep your heels sandal ready? Not far from the list is Heel Repair Cream by Exuviance, a miracle moisturizer for your feet, it’s such an amazing product it can be used on your hands, elbows and knees. Heel Repair also helps preserve pedicures, keeping your feet pretty for weeks at a time. The Pro-Vitamin E and superior conditioning oils reduce irritation and refresh tired feet, so you can dance the night away. $38 @NeoStrata.com
A New brand we’re excited about is Retrospect, formulated with Replicine Functional Keratin, a wool derived Keratin that reverses the signs of aging skin. You’re going to love their Hand & Nail Reconstructor, it repairs the driest of hands and nails.
The scent is intoxicating; the luxurious cream melts into the skin like butter and the results are youthful looking hands. Another item on the list is their Feet, Knees & Elbows; those seem to be the toughest parts on our bodies to keep soft and supple. Skin is renewed and soft to the touch. It is clinically tested that Replicine Functional Keratin aids the skin in the production of collagen; helps reduce wrinkles and promotes healthy skin. $35/$38 @Retrospectusa.com
Love Life Skin, another favorite was created for patients who suffered from chemotherapy and radiation treatments, skin during treatments becomes dehydrated and damaged. Love Life Skin addresses inflammation and moisture loss – infused with 31 natural botanicals and antioxidants known as Recovery Elixir 31. Their Moisture Reservoir Hand Cream doesn’t disappoint and your hands aren’t just cocooned in health, but are silky soft. $65 @LoveLifeSkin.com
Immediately upon purchasing my Clarisonic the first thing I thought was, “oh my goodness, I need this for my whole body too!”. Well the beauty gods have smiled, because Clarisonic recently released a body brush head and body brush extension handle. Genius! Many women are great about exfoliating their faces, but unfortunately, they often neglect the rest of their skin. One of the secrets to youthful, glowing skin like Jennifer Lopez’s is proper exfoliation, and the Clarisonic body brush is a secret weapon.
If you’re not familiar with the Clarisonic, it has taken the beauty world by storm and is the secret to every beauty editor’s skincare regime. It’s a facial brush and sonic cleansing system that removes 6x more makeup and 2x more dirt and oil then regular facial cleansing alone. It’s a fabulous exfoliator and oh yes, it was one of Oprah’s favorite things!
The Clarisonic offers several different brush heads types for your face including sensitive, normal, delicate, deep pore and acne, but now they are including a brush designed specifically for the body. This is great news, because as much as I hate to admit it, I am guilty of using my regular Clarisonic brush on my body to exfoliate and smooth my skin. It did an ok job, but the designated body brush is ten times better, plus the extension handle makes it easy to reach my back and legs.
This Clarisonic body brush has a million body beautiful benefits! It expertly cleanses and exfoliates your skin which is important for keeping the texture soft and smooth and it helps skin to better absorb skincare products. Say goodbye to dry patches and rough elbows, and the body brush is ideal for creating a smooth canvas for the perfect self tanner application. Plus, it helps get rid of the awful bacne that sometimes occurs when wearing workout clothes. The body brush works with the Clarisonic Plus Model and make sure you replace the brush head every three months.
Through using the body brush, you’ll notice the same amazing results you see when using the facial brushes. So even though it’s almost fall, you’ll want to sport shorter hemlines, plunging necklines and sleeveless tops because after just one use, smoother, more youthful and glowing skin is revealed. Who doesn’t love that!
Tanda Clear + Gives You Light Therapy Without A Trip To The Dermatologist
Acne can be one of the toughest skin issues to deal with. It’s hard enough suffering though breakouts in high school, but it’s even more difficult once you’ve reached the working world and you have to hold meetings and entertain clients.
While there are plenty of creams and cleaners out there, one of the most popular and effective tools for clearing up breakouts is the Tanda Clear +. Think of it this way, the Tanda does for acne treatment what the Clarisonic does for face washing. The Tanda, Clarisonic and other high tech beauty devices are making waves the the beauty space since they use science to really amp up results. Just take a look at some of Tanda’sbefore and after photos and you’ll never want to go back to your old acne treatment again.
How does the Tanda Work?
We all have acne causing bacteria on our skin, and when hormonal changes cause our bodies to create excess oil that acne causing bacteria multiplies and clogs our pores. (Gross, right?). The Tanda uses blue LED light therapy, which has been clinically proven to kill that acne causing bacteria, sonic vibration and warmth to clear the pores. This combo treatment gets rid of the pimples and blemishes and actually prevents future ones.
All you need to do is apply the Tanda to the blemished area for three minutes, twice a day. This can be rather time consuming, so many Tanda users say they simply do it while watching TV or reading a magazine.
What to expect
You can see some results immediately but, give it about 2 weeks for total transformation. Aside from great results (seriously, check out the pictures here, they are amazing!), the Tanda doesn’t dry your skin like the benzoyl peroxide in most acne treatments, so you won’t end up with a dry, flakey face.
Anyone can use the Tanda, and it’s especially good if you have sensitive skin. Plus, if you have an upcoming wedding or big date, it’s a must have, since so many people swear by the almost immediate results!
You can purchase the Tanda at Nordstrom and Sephora or from the Tanda website where you can get a money back guarantee!
Who doesn’t love the way their skin looks after a facial? The smooth texture, radiance, and even tone are a necessity, so when you don’t have time to make it to the spa, you have to try the next best thing. That’s why I’m currently obsessed with this Philosophy Microdelivery Peel.
It’s a simple two step process that includes vitamin c/peptide resurfacing crystals, and a lactic/salicylic acid activating gel that basically amount to a miracle in a jar. You start with dry skin and apply the resurfacing crystals, which sort of resemble a mask; then gently massage them in a circular motion around your face ( This step is similar to using an exfoliating product on your skin). Next, apply the lactic/salicylic acid gel with your hands over your face and on top of the crystals. FYI you will feel a warming sensation similar to what you feel when you get a peel in a facial at a spa. Simply rinse your face clean after 2 or 3 minutes, and you’ll notice just how much smoother your skin is.
So let’s talk results…because they are pretty impressive. Not only does the peel exfoliate and resurface my skin, but it also takes years off, minimizing those pesky lines around my eyes and forehead and reducing my sun damage. Immediately upon using it, you’ll have incredible skin, but I really love how my skin looks the next morning. It’ so bright and radiant, like I’ve had the best night sleep. And the true test..people actually notice a difference… even my husband has commented on how good my skin looks.
I really appreciate that the Microdelivery Peel doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. I’m very selective about the professional facials I book and always choose the gentlest ones, so I love that the Philosophy peel (as with all Philosophy products) is not invasive on my skin. While this doesn’t replace my regular facials (because after all, I love a good trip to the spa), I do love using the peel on a regular basis for glowing, youthful skin. With summer here and weddings, parties, and events to attend… at $68, I definitely recommend giving it a try!
You can purchase the Philosophy Microdelivery Peel at Sephora and Nordstrom.
With high praise from InStyle Magazine, Allure Magazine, Seattle Bride, Seattle Times, Daily Candy and Lucky Magazine, the Bronze Bar is a go to spot in Seattle for professional airbrush tanning. Owner Deana Finch is a New York City trained airbrush expert and even trained under the creator of the original “sculpted tan.” It’s the perfect place to get a beautifully bronze year round, and I would defiantly recommend it to anyone getting married soon who wants a little extra glow on their wedding day.
AMBIENCE
Located in the Belltown area of downtown Seattle the salon is intimate with a private, dedicated area for the fabulous airbrush application.
EXPERIENCE
Because the Bronze Bar is professional airbrush tanning as opposed to the booths, you get a customized formula for your color, discuss your results with your sprayer and you can choose from a few different specialties. I love this since it seems to take away any fear of walking out looking overly bronzed.
I chose the Basic Bronze since I have fair skin and this application creates a natural golden color, but can be customized to be a little deeper. You can also get the Bigger Bronze if you have olive or dark skin since these give you a fabulous deep dark tan. I love the Bridal Bronze, and while I had a destination wedding, had I gotten married in Seattle last year, I would have definitely chosen this. You start with a clear solution that is applied two days in a row and can be tailored to the lines of your dress…so strapless girls can get a gorgeous decolletage or a a golden glow for a backless dress. And oh, if you haven’t been too great about hitting the gym lately and want some “instant” definition…then book the buff bronze with a sculpted application to create toned abs and arms a la Jennifer Aniston.
Just a few quick tips before you visit…make sure you shower, exfoliate and skip the deodorant, makeup and moisturizer before your appointment. Wear loose fitting, dark clothes and bring a bathing suit or you can wear a provided disposable thong or go nude if you choose. In about 15 minutes I was strategically airbrushed and my sprayer made me feel incredibly comfortable throughout the process. I loved my results …a gorgeous bronzy glow with an even application incredibly natural color. So while Seattle might be a little sparing with the sunshine, I look like I’ve been spending my days at the beach!
IN CROWD
Brides to be, Moms, girls about town and let’s be honest…plenty of ladies and gentlemen who want that golden glow in a city that is know for lots of rain!
We can’t help but be in awe of Charlize Theron’s beauty, especially while she’s been out promoting Snow White and the Huntsman. Those green eyes, flaxen hair and her incredible skin make me think twice about whether Snow White was actually the fairest of them all, or if the evil queen had nothing to worry about all along. While we might not know the answer to that question, according to People Magazine, we do know how Charlize keeps her skin looking absolutely gorgeous and radiant…she books microdermabrasion treatments.
THE EXPERIENCE
Exfoliation is an essential step in any skin care regimen and think of microdermabrasion as a “super exfoliator”. This treatment has a myriad of skin health benefits including reducing pore size, reducing discoloration, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles and increasing collagen production. Microdermabrasion uses a jetted stream of tiny rough grains that slough off the outer dead layer of skin. You can do a focused microderm treatment or you can add it to your regular facial.
The treatment is painless and non invasive and while you might be a little red afterward, you certainly go about your day. If you have sensitive skin not to worry, I have sensitive skin and I love microdermabrasion treatments since my skin always looks healthier and more radiant and feels so much smoother afterward. This treatments makes your skin flawless on it’s own and incredible looking under makeup. It’s a great addition to your skincare regime to get celebrity worthy skin!
GET YOUR FIX
I tend to be very picky about my skincare, and, as I said, I have sensitive skin, so I love the microdermabrasion treatments from Calidora. Calidora is a medispa and has incredibly experienced and knowledgable aestheticians on staff who really know their skin care. You can read my review of Calidora here.
Calidora Skin Clinics are located in downtown Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, University Village and Santa Monica, California
Like foundation, finding the perfect blush can be just as daunting of a task. So many colors, textures, brands, and types! It is understandable to see why a gal would get so frustrated. Like most products, you must investigate first in order to simplify what it is your looking for exactly. Color preference can really depend on what you are in the mood for or attracted to at that particular time, but what about texture? Is there really a difference in cream vs powder?
Powder: One can never go wrong with a powder blush…it’s classic, fresh, and works with just about every skin type. Just be sure that the pigmentation in the powder formula is high enough that the color will show through on the first application and not the 5th. Powders tend to range in type as well: shimmer, slight shimmer, or matte. I recommend sticking with a matte to slight shimmer blush if you plan to be using a highlight and shimmering bronzer on the face. As a recovering glitter addict (kidding, kind of) too much shimmer from too many products will leave you looking like a disco ball and age the skin. If you do not plan to use a highlight or shimmering bronzer, shoot for a blush with shimmer to give your cheeks an added boost.
Cream: Sure, they last long and leave a dewy finish onto the skin…but not everyone can wear a cream based blush. Normal to dry skin types are fine, but if you are oily and get shiny throughout the day….put the cream blush down and walk away, this isn’t for you ladies. I almost always come across cream blushes with shimmer included but there are matte formulas as well. Apply the same rule with layering on the shimmer….less is more!
Application Technique:
Your are going to want to locate yourself a slightly angled blush brush (the angle in the brush allows the product to set on the skin softly) and use the old “smile” and apply to the apple on your cheeks trick. Please do not run the blush all the way through your cheekbone to your ear, just the apple of the cheek. I will elaborate on a technique called “contouring” that will give you a defined and natural look, but without the harsh amount of color, in just a bit.
Naturally, with the temperature’s warming, my calendar begins to fill up with many outdoor events: Beach trips, barbecues, and early mornings on my patio are all on my radar. Yet with all of these activities and exposure to the sun, it’s easy to not consider if you are doing everything you can to prevent skin cancer and protect your body. Millions of people are negatively effected by the sun every year and the awareness must be brought up. In order to stay healthy and keep our bodies at low risk of disease and cancer, we must get educated, and with May being the official “skin cancerawareness month”, what better time than now?
Did you know daily sunscreen use cuts our risk of Melanoma in half? Studies show that it does, and it takes 5 minutes out of your day to apply the product; that isn’t too much to ask, right? Though, how can we navigate through the sea of sunscreen products to find the best one for you? Here’s some facts to help you narrow down your search, or to hopefully point you in the direction of a great product for your face and body.
Chemical vs Physical: Physical sunscreens provide a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection, which reflect or scatter UV radiation before it reaches your skin. They are especially useful for individuals with sensitive skin, as they rarely cause skin irritation. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the energy of UV radiation before it affects your skin. The majority of Chemical sunscreens only offer UVB protection and not UVA (unless it has the UVA blocking agent: Avobenzone in it), which can result in long term skin injury/cancer. I prefer to stick to a physical sunscreen with titanium dioxideor zinc oxide. For more information, Check out this great chart highlighting the main differences between the two.
Does anything over SPF 30 really work: Lets look at the facts on this one, an SPF 30 gives at least 95% protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays, yet both an SPF of 55 and 85 shows about a 99% protection rate. No sunscreen gives 100% coverage, and though that extra 4% coverage is essential, it’s mainly used as a marketing technique that many consumers get caught up in. The amount and frequency of application, as well as the kind of quality product your using, is what will contribute mainly to your protection. When shopping for a sunscreen, it’s important to note, though you are looking at the actual number rating (SPF 15, 25 etc) that rating is only based off of UVB and does not include UVA (which is more harmful!), so be sure to look for the “UVA/UVB Protection” or “Broad Spectrum” protection label on the bottle to get full protection and coverage.
When to apply: Sunscreen should be applied liberally to clean, dry skin 20 minutes before going outside. Be sure to cover every exposed part of your body and face (and don’t forget those hands!) Reapply every two hours, or more regularly if you are perspiring or involved in water activities. Keep in mind, even though spray lotions and gels are the least oily, they are also the ones that wash off easily and need to be reapplied more frequently.
Nothing says summer like a golden glow, but we all know better than to spend hours baking in the sun. This means it’s essential to wear sunscreen, and especially important to make sure your face is protected with a high SPF to prevent wrinkles and other signs of premature ageing. So how do you get that gorgeous bronzy glow without sacrificing the health of your skin? That’s where a great self-tanner comes to the rescue.
The skin on your face is far more delicate than the skin on the rest of your body, which could make you a little wary of using self tanner on your face. That’s why I always use self-tanners that are specially formulated for the face. Doing so avoids breakouts, and that dreaded “muddy” look that comes from applying too much heavy product.
Clarins Liquid Bronze Self-Tanning for Face & Decollete is one of my favorite products for adding a little color to your visage. In fact, I use it year round. It creates a natural looking tan and looks great on all skin tones, even the fairest complexions. The fragrance is sweet and doesn’t leave that dreaded post self tanner scent; plus, the formula is moisturizing, smooth, and refreshing. Just apply it with a cotton pad to ensure even converge and you’ll have healthy glowing skin in no time.
If you want an option that’s a little easier on the budget, give Jergens Natural Glow Daily FACE Moisturizer a try. It comes in formulas designed for both fair to medium, and medium to tan skin tones, and contains an SPF 20. The principle is similar to the popular Jergens Daily Moisturizer with self tanner, in that the color shows up gradually after a few applications. It’s fool proof, so you won’t end up with streaks, just radiant skin like you’ve spent a few weeks on vacation.
Everyone tells you to do it. Your mom. Your dermatologist. Your girlfriends. Baz Luhrmann. Surely all of these well-meaning folks can’t be wrong about the importance of wearing sunscreen. So why do so many women avoid it? Take your pick from the litter box of excuses: they’re too lazy, it’s too expensive, or they consider themselves immune to the dangers of harmful ultraviolet rays.
Except for the latter (c’mon, ladies – no one is immune!), there appears to be a solution on the horizon for the usual reasons people tend to avoid sunscreen: L’Oreal Sublime Sun, a new collection of body care that arrives just in time for peak sunshine seasons. The range includes the usual lotions, but what really stole my sun-loving heart wasn’t the promise of looking like J. Lo (although, you know, nice side effect), but the two most effortless products of the bunch.
The Hydra Lotion Spray ($11), available in SPF 30 and SPF 50+, earns high marks merely for being so incredibly convenient. The foolproof spray nozzle ensures perfect aim and coverage and completely mess-free application (sayonara, smelly white creams!). To boot, it boasts a non-greasy, oil-free formula that makes it ideal for most skin types – even mine, which tends to turn its figurative nose at the majority of sunscreens. This light spray sinks right into even the most parched, hydration-deprived skin and leaves it immediately saturated in moisture. That, plus its antioxidant-rich cocktail of vitamin E and white grape seed, makes it an instantly draw for summer. Also available in SPF 30 and SPF 50+, the Crystal Clear Mist ($11) offers the same benefits as the Hydra Lotion, without the extra moisturizing properties.
Both of these little miracles are also water- and sweat-resistant and oil-free, so no matter what your preference – jogging, swimming, or lazing – you’ll get all the protection you need.
No matter the season, our lips crave moisture, but we want that hydration without having to sacrifice a perfectly painted pout. Thankfully, the lipstick gods have heard our cries and have created lip products that deliver soft, hydrated lips while imparting the perfect hint of tint. If you’re still finding it difficult to maximize moisture while creating color, read on for my favorites.
You know that product that you just can’t cope to be away from? Well, for me, that product is the Sugar Lip Treatment by Fresh. I became a fan the first time that lemony-scented balm touched my lips, and it’s been the most loyal relationship since! For the perfect combination of moisture and color, try the Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment, $22.50. With meadow foam seed oil and sugar, your lips will thank you.
You can’t go wrong with Estee Lauder’s Pure Color Sensuous Rouge lip color: a moisture-rich center enveloped around a creamy, vibrantly rich color. With its mix of shea butter and fruit extracts, this lip product nourishes lips with a punch of hydration and a pop of color. Lips will look naturally more plump and full for only $28. And with 13 shades, there is a match made in heaven for everyone, and every occasion.
The delicate skin on your lips needs to be soothed and protected, and Chanel’s Rouge Coco Shine does just that, while also creating a glossy shine on those soft lips. Rouge Coco Shine comes in 20 colors from natural beige to shimmery pinks. Even the sleek packaging is luxurious. For $32.50, it’s only a small price to pay for a big effect on your lips.
Labeling anything the “best in the world” is a lofty praise indeed, but in this case there’s merit to the claim. Facialist Eve Lom, whose client list includes some of the world’s most beautiful women – think Madonna, Kate Hudson and Eva Mendes – formulated a luxurious cleanser now regarded as something of a cult favorite.
Rich in decadent ingredients, the cleanser’s intriguing blend can be traced to Lom’s farm upbringing. The concoction includes natural treatments like antiseptic clove, soothing Egyptian chamomile, toning hops and nourishing cocoa butter, which marry in perfect harmony to create a thick, herbal-scented, exceptionally effective product.
What is it about this seemingly innocuous cream cleanser that makes it so enticing? Glowing reviews and celebrity fans aside, this cleanser is a standout for one key reason: it actually works. Not only does it remove all traces of makeup in mere seconds, it also sloughs off dead skin and leaves behind a brighter, fresher complexion via the included and very gentle woven muslin cloth.
Lom’s goal was to create a cleanser that did far more than just remove makeup (including stubborn eye makeup, it should be mentioned). She also wanted to ensure that the skin was decongested and left in a healthy state each and every time. The powerful antiseptics may sound a bit alarming – do you really want to massage eucalyptus into your skin? – but well worth the risk.
In fact, the payoff is astounding.
After Lom’s cleanser works like magic, the skin is left baby soft – so supple that it almost doesn’t require moisturizer. Of course, dry types will benefit from a little extra hydration, so bear that in mind as you build your regimen.
Find Eve Lom cleanser online and at the Space NK boutique inside Bloomingdale’s at Tysons Corner.
A truly “OMG, finally!” moment occurred when news of the newest Bliss Spa treatment hit my desk. Bliss, naturally, is known for its amazing repertoire of body-beautifying, skin-soothing treatments – for the ladies. Now, though, comes the amazingly titled He-Wax series, which has finally arrived in DC. Yes, He-Wax – and, as you may have guessed, it’s for the gents. This menu of hair removal services doesn’t leave a single body part untouched, so to speak. Whether his preference is to go completely bare (and we mean everywhere) or just remove a little bit here and there, he’ll find it on the comprehensive Bliss list.
AMBIENCE
Could you imagine running into He-Man himself in a place as elegant as the spa? Sure, it may not be where you’d expect to meet your local Masters of the Universe, but Bliss Spa aims to change things a wee bit with the arrival of He-Wax. Located within the chic confines of the W Washington, DC, Bliss exudes a cool, crisp aura in a relatively quiet environment – one that is surprisingly comfortable for the “he” in your life. Throw in some funky R&B emanating from the speakers and the delish brownies and it’s a recipe for unisex success.
EXPERIENCE
In comparison to other Bliss Spas, the DC location is on the small side. For the guy who prefers to take a low-key approach to his beauty regime, this could be a welcome alternative to the usual bustling spas in the metro area. Though he may want to delay his hair-ripping experience as long as possible, eventually he’ll be led back to the treatment room. The techs at Bliss are seasoned pros who are religious about cleanliness, which means they don’t double dip or go (gasp!) glove free. Using the iconic beauty brand’s famed “painless-as-possible” method, the tech swiftly removes hair from the body part of choice – think nether regions, face, arms, legs, chest, back and stomach.
IN CROWD
It’s more of a ladies’ hot spot, but Bliss doesn’t discriminate. Expect to spot a few discerning DC fellas who don’t turn their nose as the art of proper grooming.
WALLET WATCH
A basic brief (which removes hair from the top and sides down under) is $35. A brow wax is $30. A chest wax is $55.
NEED TO KNOW
Bliss Spa W Washington, DC 515 15th St. NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 661-2416
All over town—after all—no one is safe from weather’s wrath.
TREND ALERT
It’s the unusually mild winter that has besieged the DC area this year. After the Snowmageddon event of 2010-2011, this kind of weather is more than welcome…But what does it mean for our skin? Most winters signal the return of dry air, but even given the low-key weather—this season is no different. That’s because even though temperatures may be a wee bit higher than usual, most people are still turning on their heaters at home (it’s not that warm, after all). The result? Parched skin, lips and even hair, all of which are begging for more moisture now than any other time of the year.
GET THE LOOK
Keep yourself immersed in all things hydrated with a strict, no-fuss regimen that treats you from head to toe with intense moisture. These are the products local gals dig for their fix:
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream delivers immediate moisture via its potent formula – a blend of healing colloidal oatmeal (great for itchy, eczema-prone skin), shea butter and eucalyptus oil, which soothes irritated spots. The Tysons Corner Sephora team swears by it for everything from cracked noses to chapped lips to raw hands (and it really is that good, ladies).
Jurlique Skin Balancing Face Oil is, to put it succinctly, the business. So light and beautifully scented, it absorbs into the skin almost immediately and leaves it feeling instantly softer and healthier. It even wears well beneath makeup. For extra-strength results, layer it beneath your preferred moisturizer and reap its amazing conditioning benefits.
Kérastase Elixir Ultime could well be the hair product of the moment, at least around here. The Vidal Sassoon team at Tysons Galleria gives high marks to this golden cocktail. It’s packed with healing ingredients, like shine-enhancing maize oil, nourishing Pracaxi oil, smoothing camellia oil and restorative argan oil.
Posted Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Posted Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Posted Monday, January 23, 2012
