Love Thy Skin: Lush Cosmetics

A Lush Life

My recent transition to au naturale skin products inspired me to take this decision one step further: au naturale bath and body products. Meet Lush. For those of you who have not had the pleasure, please, do let me explain.

Lush products are hand-made from fresh, organic fruit and vegetables, essential oils and safe synthetics, using little or no preservative or packaging. Fabulous, right? I know. 

Here are the things I adore...

Almond and Coconut Smoothie: When you need a quick "make me feel sexy" fixer, slather on this luxuriously rich and moisturizing body wash.The almond oil is nutritious, with a high vitamin E content. It leaves my skin so silky soft, I fall in love with Lush every time I shower.

 

Glorious Mud: This body mask is made from Rhassoul, a clay that is usually in mud masks to deeply cleanse the skin. This mud can either be used on its own as a mask or as a combo with the Almond and Coconut Smoothie for exfoliation. This is perfect for all the jet setters heading to that bikini-appropriate happy place.

Dream Cream Body Lotion: THE body lotion for thirsty skin. It contains chamomile and lavender, which calm irritations, reduce redness and banish blotches. The thickness of the cream is perfect if you miss the sheen on your legs during colder and drier weather. Apply this cream after your luscious shower and I promise you won't regret reading this post!

Things I Adore: Kate Spade

Kate Spade is a designer I turn to when I find myself searching for classy everyday staple items: a pair of ballet flats, a professional tote for work, or a playful, yet sophisticated, pair of earrings.

My favorite ballet flats...

 

It must be my lucky Friday. As I walked to my desk in my fav KS flats, plopped my 50 lbs work tote on my desk, turned my laptop on and checked my inbox, I came across an email (thanks to coworker IN) with subject: friends & family: 25% off + free shipping. two days only. From: katespade.com. Kate Spade is having their friends & family sale today and tomorrow, offering 25% off your entire purchase!

 

As if I can help myself from browsing. Hehe. I immediately called for a VIH (very important huddle) with my work besties to see how we can best take advantage of this wonderful gift from Kate. 

Here are the things I adore...

The Journal Newspaper Clutch: This clutch is simply adorable, and perfect for a Sunday afternoon brunch with the gals. Inspired by The New York Times, this clutch is crafted in a paper-like fabric to resemble a rolled paper. Not only can you look fashionable for your besties during brunch, you can also look smart and beautiful on your stroll there.

Size Guide

here's the scoop: our daily dose of news inspired this new clutch, sure to be the headline of any cocktail conversation. the whimsical shape is specially crafted in a paper-like fabric to resemble a rolled paper. a magnetic snap secures the textured flap closure, keeping your essentials safely stowed and close at hand.

MORE INFO

 

 

 

Aimee Sunglasses: The perfect pair of black, over-sized glasses for year-round jet setting. Frames are bedecked with special details for a special touch of chic.

Solid Lola Dress: This classy dress is embellished with a bow trim at the waist, creating a figure-flattering silhouette for any figure. Totally Audrey Hepburn and perfect for a friendly dinner gathering. 

Sale ends tomorrow... happy shopping!

Love Thy Skin: Moisturize

Being the product junkie that I am, I have been suckered into trying any skincare line that has either 1) great packaging, 2) great marketing or 3) a shelf at Sephora. With all the recent spotlight on toxic chemicals in skincare and makeup products, I decided to toss my junkie collection and go au naturale (as much as I can) to limit the amount of toxins I'm depositing into my skin, religiously, on a day-to-day basis. 

After many hours of research, I can finally say that I have found my skincare regimen. 

Day/Night Serum: Josie Maran Organic Argan Oil

This is a staple must-have for any skincare regimen. I use it in the morning and at night during the fall/winter months as a serum, prior to my day/night cream. During the spring/summer, I tend to skip this in the morning and substitute in my Skyn Iceland serum.

This organic Argan Oil is lightweight enough to use as a daily moisturizer, and rich enough to use as a skin treatment. Because this oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it is hydrating and nourishing. 

Here's the best part, this oil is 100% pure organic Argan Oil and is formulated without all the toxins: parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, synthetic dye, petro-chemicals, and phthalates.

I'm sure most of you (especially oily/combination skin types) are slightly turned-off by the idea of slathering oil on your face. Just remember, a little goes a long way. It's absorbed quickly and will keep your skin hydrated all day. If you absolutely can't stand it during the day, then use it at night. By the time you hit your snooze button, I promise, your skin will be glowing!

Day/Night Moisturizer: Perricone MD Face Finishing Moisturizer

This is a guilty pleasure of mine since it doesn't exactly adhere to my au naturale skincare regimen. However, this is a fantastic moisturizer that is rich in corrective nutrients that helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while providing antioxidant protection. ALA, DMAE, and vitamin C ester also combine to impart a nourished, hydrated, glowing complexion--absolutely necessary for your 20  and 30 something's skin. 

I layer this on top of my serum in the morning and at bedtime. It's not greasy and feels light on your skin, but you can tell your face stays moisturized all day long!