CC It to Believe It

CC Creams are gaining in popularity for their light coverage and complexion enhancing ways.

CC indeed stands for "color correcting" and the creams are meant to address issues like redness or sallowness with light diffusing particles. They generally offer more coverage than a tinted moisturizer or BB Cream and often include SPF.

Time Freeze CC Anti-Age Color Correcting Cream from Lumene is an impressive 6-in-1 product:

• Foundation – a fine but well covering formula. The shades are designed to neutralize the color of red areas.
• Concealer
• Primer
• Illuminator
• Long-lasting
• SPF 20

This was my first foray into the wild world of CC Creams (it's a beauty product jungle out there), and I must say I am quite inclined to stay awhile. I never quite took to BB Creams (what's the point when I'm devoted to my foundation?), but Time Freeze offers an easy, ideal light coverage for when I'm not so inclined to get gussied up, but still do not want to scare small children or the elderly by venturing out into public make-up free. It instantly perfected my pores and overall skin tone and lasted all day.

As mentioned above, you can also use it as a primer under foundation for extra coverage and staying power—a most excellent aspect I utilized over the weekend for my big brother's wedding!

Lumene Time Freeze CC Cream is available in light, medium and dark shades. It can be found at CVS, CVS.com, Ulta, Ulta.com and Dermstore.com and retails for $14.99. 

Time to Get TAUT: Part I

Nutricosmetics.

Never heard of it?

Me neither, until I was recently introduced to the new LAC TAUT line. This innovative collection of collagen-replenishing nutricosmetics (or ingestible cosmetics) and collagen-boosting topical products promise to renew and beautify from the inside out.

There are two main components to this celeb-worthy regimen:

1) TAUT Premium Collagen Replenishment Formula
2) TAUT Collagen Mask

Sure, I was excited when I read the press release, but when my sample package arrived I realized how truly major this stuff is.

 The TAUT Collagen Mask boasts a unique and concentrated blend of anti-aging ingredients including hydrolyzed collagen, Squalene, Hyaluronic Acid and antioxidants. Key benefits include fading of fine lines, and firming and rejuvenation of skin. It feels a little slimy to take out of the package, and also a bit confusing to unfold and place on your face, but oh MAN! After using, your skin feels CRAZY soft! Like newborn baby soft! I was truly amazed.

The goods

 Pretty pouch! Whatever do your contents hold?

 Ooooh slimy skin boosting goodness!

 So you look like a monster for 10 minutes... Feels great!

The Replenishment Formula comes in a neat 8-pack box of individual glass bottles- or "shots." Featuring the highest concentration of ingestible collagen on the market- 30 grams per 1.7 oz. serving- TAUT Premium Collagen utilizes a unique hydrolysis technology to shrink the collagen molecule from the size of a basketball to the size of a peanut, which makes it small enough for the body to absorb.

Things be getting fancy up in here!

Not gonna lie, I was a little weirded out about doing a "shot." I'm more of a wine drinker truth be told. Plus, I started feeling a sort of Death Becomes Her vibe at the whole task... I'd really like to avoid a tumble down the stairs only to survive with my head on backwards.

But! All in the name of BrainyBeautys right?!

Immortality aside (I hope?), TAUT Replenishment Formula promotes the following key benefits:
Skin: improved repair, firmness, and pigmentation
Hair: restoration, growth
Nails: strengthening and improved appearance

So I cheers-ed my reflection and took it like a champ. Not bad! The real orange juice taste is definitely is a plus.

Bottoms up baby!

As it is recommended every other day (3-4 times per week), I am only three bottles and two masks in. Thus far, my usually brittle nails are wicked long and strong. Definitely love that!

To be continued...

 

TAUT Collagen Mask, $50 for a box of 5; TAUT Premium Collagen Replenishment Formula, $110 for a box of 8 1.7 oz. bottles. Products can be found at RenewAlliance.comhttp://www.renewalliance.com/

Pure BIOBLISS

Like, OMG! It's the "new anti-aging advancement in skin care!"

Hallelujah! Woot woot! Yeeeeeee-haw! Wheeeeeeee!

I mean, come on- every new anti-aging product/system/treatment/etc makes this claim. And as mentioned in previous posts, I am a, shall we say, maturing woman (what? 30 is no 19 people!) and therefore increasingly down with experimenting with the latest wrinkle preventing lotions and potions. But I am also increasingly realizing that most all include fantastic, fancy ingredients that will indeed improve the look and feel of skin long term. So when it comes down to it, you really just have to find something that you love and that you feel works for you. Perhaps that something will be BIOBLISS.

The BIOBLISS System offers a range of products in order to prepare skin and extend the anti-aging effectiveness of its treatments:

Clean: This mild and refreshing cleanser includes calming cucumber extract, Aloe Vera and skin protecting antioxidant Vitamin E. Plus, it smells awesome and left my face feeling super clean.

Srub: I had no idea this was even an exfoliating scrub until after I used it (labels?! who needs em'!?) because it was so extremely gentle. Once I read the packaging (those blasted labels again!), I discovered that it's derived from coconut, olive, macadamia nut, sunflower and avocado. Nothing abrasive about any of those!

Lock It In Serum: This was my least fave of the bunch. Personally, it smelled funny and had a weird texture. And it's specially matched to the Anti-Wrinkle Treatment Patch, of which I did not receive a sample. HARRUMPH! (But my skin did feel super soft after using it.)

Hydrate Lotion: My oh my did my face feel soft and supple after using this! La-la-la-loved! I did feel though that it is better suited to fall/winter months, as it was a bit thick for the current hot and humid Michigan climate. At $60 a pop it's an investment, but definitely a splurge-worthy pick!

To learn more about BIOBLISS, these and other products visit www.biobliss.com

This Wei to Anti-Aging!

I used to flip right through anti-aging articles and rolled my eyes at ads hawking the latest wrinkle reducers. And then I turned 30. 

This whole aging thing? Well, it's apparently real kids! 

Which isn't to say I'm a wrinkly-dinkly-complected mess. I've always worn sunscreen, moisturized and even Retin-A-ed my skin to pretty decent shape. It's just that the prospect of awakening to a suddenly fallen face seems a lot more realistic now. So Wei Correct-Zen 24-Hour Herbal Anti-Aging System is definitely a welcome addition to my daily regimen. 

The big draw to the potions are their inclusion of Gentian Root and L'obelia extract. According to Wei, the former has long been used by Chinese women to achieve their "well-known spotless porcelain look," while the latter's muscle relaxation and pain reducing properties diminish the appearance of existing fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep. 

Sounds good to me!

The Daytime Complexion Corrector has a pleasant, fresh fragrance and leaves skin feeling quite soft. Two small drawbacks though: 1) It doesn't contain SPF and 2) It created a bit of a funky texture when I applied foundation shortly after. Perhaps I didn't wait long enough for it to sink in though? 

The Overnight Wrinkle Reducer is a bit lighter in texture but also leaves skin feelin' good. 

As for whether or not these two will REALLY make a difference to my complexion remains to be seen... Ask me in five years! 

V Beaute

Evidence Eraser (cleanser)
Rub Off (exfoliator)
Undercover Agent (anti-wrinkle serum)
Lite Up (brightening treatment serum)
Buying Time (Everyday Creme)
Eye Never (eye creme)

Available as a travel friendly clutch (the It Kit) or individually.

I read about V Beaute before trying & thought "Oh great, another hedge-fund-manager/socialite using her money and connections to make people buy whatever crap she has other people making for her. Super, I love giving my money to people who don't get out of bed for under a million."
Yes, I'm slightly bitter about not being a millionaire-socialite. I would even make do without the socialite-part.

After trying the V Beaute line, however, I am impressed.
Very impressed.

Fragrance free! Paraben free! Products that work without irritating my skin!

I use the Undercover Agent before sunblock in the morning; then one of the face washes, the Light Up, the Eye Never, and finish with the Buying time at night. Tightens & brightens, makes my skin happy.

Can't argue with results-- this chick (V Beaute creator Julie Macklowe) has done the work & come up with something great. Expensive and lux, but you'll have your face for the rest of your life-- might as well treat it right.

Radical Skincare

No, really, that's the name: Radical Skincare.

I have been using the Eye Revive Creme, Youth Infusion Serum, and Restorative Moisturizer.
It is a costly system, no bones about it.
But, in this case, you are getting your money's worth!!!
All three smell light and fruity, go on smoothly, and work very well.
Since I have been using the system, I have been told that I am "all glowy," and that I have "perfect skin." No joke, and not just the once!
Oh, and the packaging for the eye cream and the serum are awesome, the pumps twist back into the bottle--easy traveling!
A very aptly named line.

P.S.: Check out the scientific explanations on their website. So good, sooo good.

Dr. Brandt Time Arrest Face Fluid

Think of visible signs of aging as a werewolf-- this is the silver bullet.

Light serum that spreads on easily, perfect first step. Absorbs quickly so you can put your sunblock on next.
Slight lavender scent, not at all overwhelming (as lavender can be).
Makes your skin feel wonderful!

MyChelle Apple Brightening System

Apple Brightening CleanserApple Brightening PeelApple Brightening Serum
Apples, not just for snacking anymore!
Use this trio to fight and correct hyper-pigmentation.
Gentle, even the peel.
It does take time, but the long-term payoff is excellent.
Substantially faded the odd parenthesis-shaped dark spots around my temples.

Will be trying the whole Age Spot / UV Recovery Regimen
Complete Regimen/UV Repair set next, it comes with an SPF 28 cream, super-hydrating cream, and an Apple Brightening Mist. I do love a Brightening Mist!
What really sold me on this was the peel, works without feeling like I'm taking off my face. If you are going to start somewhere, the peel is my recommendation.

L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Cream and Eye Balm

L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Face Cream & Eye Balm are amazing.
Thick enough to stand up to Michigan winters, but not at all greasy, even with my oily skin.
It has refined my skin, my face is happy!
The eye balm really reduced my dark circles, makes me look like I have slept.
It's a little pricey, but the you only need a little--the jars last.
Totally worth it.
And the jars themselves! Lovely cobalt glass and silver lids, so lovely.
Well done again, L'Occitane!

Wei East Firming

Okay, so China-made products have gotten a bit of a bad rep lately.
Wei East could change quite a few minds!
I've been using their Chestnut Refirming Eye Treatment, Chestnut & Black Soy Firming & Contouring Pads, & Chestnut & Black Soy Extra Firming Cream for about a month now.

I wanted to wait at least a month to make sure the results weren't some sort of allergic reaction or fluke. It's the real deal!
The first use, I looked in the mirror afterwards & thought "I have teenage skin!" Not in the acne way, just in the resilient & bouncy aspects. I want to test the products on someone in their 70's to see if the effect is as noticeable, but I hate to share!

H2O+ Sea Results Line Mender

A great winter moisturizer.

Works very well on dry skin, even skin that is wind chapped from harsh Michigan winters.

Made my face look all nice & glowy.

Improved texture & vibrancy.

I will be using this cream to make it through next winter!

Totally stopped any crepe-y-ness.

Orlane, Paris~ Un journal de 14 jours

I will be keeping a 14 day diary of my experience with 3 time fighting

products by Orlane, Paris.

Ooh la la!

Day 1: I used Orlane's First Time-Fighting Care after my before-bed face cleansing. I wasn't expecting any miracles of course, but my husband did comment "Honey, your face looks really shiny..like, good shiny!" Hey, I'll take it!!

Day 2: This morning I again used the First Time-Fighting Care cream and also took a try at the Morning Recovery Concentrate and Eye Contour serums. Neither products felt heavy nor had a bold scent.

Day 3: Today I started to see a little breakout, so I called my dermo. She recommended using the First Time-Fighting Care  cream at night only, not during the day, under make-up. A word to the wise with sensitive skin like myself!

Day 4:  I fell in love today. Orlane's Morning Recovery Concentrate is no joke!! It really gives my skin an instant, brightening, boost!

Day 5: Breakout butt has been kicked. Crisis averted.

Day 6: Call me a placebo princess, but I definitely started seeing a difference in my under-eye discoloration today! Welcome to my heart Eye Contour Serum!!

Days 7,8,9: I truly am seeing a difference in my wake-up-face, since lathering up with  the First Time-Fighting Care cream each night! I'm hooked!

Days 10-12: I stayed the weekend away and neglected to pack my Orlane products!! My skin is definitely feeling and looking a bit malnourished from only 3 days away!

Day 13: Ahhh...back to the routine. What a difference a day makes! My face feels replenished and instantly brightened.

Day 14: I must say, Merci beaucoup, Orlane, Paris!!

Arcona Booster Defense Serum and Magic White Ice

Booster Defense Serum in the a.m. and Magic White Ice in the p.m. makes for a great complexion!

I put on the Booster Defense before my sunscreen (beats down those free-radicals).

The Magic White Ice goes on after I wash my face at night, makes my face happy & healthy.

Beauty.com offers a special package-- both of the serums, a Clarisonic Mia, and a face wash!

The Clarisonic Mia is awesome-- a smaller Clarisonic brush you can take on the road, but with the same great skin-saving super powers.

Sustainable Youth Immune Performance Elasticity Cream

Immune Performance Elasticity Cream

Immune Performance Revitalizing Serum with Alasta

From Colleen:

Promises to improve skin elasticity & firmness.

Seems to be working!!!

I would buy again.

Olay Professional Pro-X Anti-aging Starter Protocol

Anti-aging Starter Protocol : Age Repair Lotion SPF 30, Eye Restoration Complex & Wrinkle Smoothing Cream.

This is a great starter kit for revitalizing your skin. Definintely using as directed on a daily basis is a must. I love the thickness and softness of each lotion. Thick, creamy & soothing to my skin. I would say that the biggest difference I noticed was around my eyes. Wrinkles, circles, and puffiness decreased. For those who are looking for a face pick-me-up without going through a procedure, I would highly recommend starting with the Pro-X Products. Olay even allows you to pick what you want to work on and put together your own regimen on their website. Go there and start rejuvenating your skin today!

Lancome RÉNERGIE MICROLIFT R.A.R.E.

Nice.

Did no harm, but I really didn't notice any change in my skin.

That's usually good enough for me, but I'd hate to pay $80.00 for 1.7 oz when I can get something from the drugstore for $10.00 that also does not interrupt the status quo.

Maybe the changes occur during the second week of use, but the sample package (free with Sephora.com order) only lasted a week.

Oh, it did have that Lancome smell. If that's something you are into, go forth & buy. I think it is a dated, old smell--the product version of mothballs.

Kinerase Brightening Anti-Aging System

Kinerase
Brightening Anti-Aging System


Recently, I noticed some dark circles under my eyes. As you may all know, there are a ton of products claiming to remove dark circles and wrinkles. I have been curious about these products, but never sure which one to try first. Luckily, Kinerase sent a Brightening Anti-Aging System to the Brainy Beautys for testing. It is a two-part system. There is a brightening serum and a more concentrated spot treatment. Upon my first trial, I felt a little burning sensation with the use of the concentrated spot treatment. The face serum went on smooth. Not too greasy and it didn't make my face break out. After about 4 days of using both the face serum and the spot treatment, I started noticing some results. Not "miracle" results, but my complexion looked a little more even, and the circles under my eyes were not as dark or puffy. After about 2 weeks of use, I would say that it did help clear up a couple of dark spots on my face and the bags under my eyes did not appear as dark as before. Overall, I think this product delivered what it promised. I would definitely recommend this product to those wanting to try an anti-aging serum, but unsure of which one to go for.

Protecting my Face!

Neutrogena® Age Shield Sunblock with Helioplex
moved to About Face!