New Skincare - New Skin Hopes - New Arrivals Featuring MuLondon and Melvita

My epic and ever-growing skincare collection has welcomed a significant amount of new hopeful products in the past month or so. Some of these are re-purchases and essential in my beauty routine as is the case with the MuLondon Organic Skincare while others were impulse purchases and gifts from the people in my life that enable my cosmetic addiction quite regularly.

The fact that most of these new-additions are natural and organic in nature is no coincidence since I have been making a gallant effort to transition most of my personal care towards a cleaner ingredient direction. As a matter of fact this change has been translated in other areas of my life as well, in an effort to improve my health and lifestyle in general. There are a lot of things to consider and pay attention to during these alterations but at the end of the day this kind of diligence and determination will and already is proving to be worthwhile. The expression "no pain - no gain" often comes to mind!

The change of seasons can do a number on your skin if precautions and appropriate skincare isn't utilized (see here!), which coupled with over-reactive, sensitive skin types can cause all kinds of trouble for the complexion. Whenever my skin "freaks out" my natural impulse always points me in the new purchase direction, meaning that my haulage can sometimes get out of hand due to desperation alone. Seeing how this time I had a clear cut goal to natural skincare options I was forced to consider, research and think through the new candidates a little bit more, resulting in smarter and more appropriate selections.

My MuLondon purchase was a no brainer! I have fallen in love with the Organic White Chocolate Truffle Moisturizer ($25.00 for 2 oz) (see review here!) which needed to be re-purchased so I took advantage of that instance and invested in a few other skincare products I had been lusting over. I truly believe in Boris and his vision so its my personal goal to spread his genius and his products to anyone who cares to listen (or read!). 

As a huge fan of true rose scents I knew that I wanted to try the Organic Rose Collection which led me to order the MuLondon Organic Rose Foaming Face Cleanser ($27.00 for 5 oz) and the MuLondon Organic Rose, Rosehip & Rosemary Moisturizer ($20.00 for 1 oz). The moisturizer is made with 100% organic Rose otto oil, Rosehip Extract and Rosemary Antioxidant and the fragrance itself is true to its origin completely. You will not smell a more genuine rose scent anywhere else! Both the cleanser and the cream are recommended for dry, irritated and sensitive skin so in theory this should fit my needs perfectly. 

Boris was kind enough to include the MuLondon Organic Marigold, Frankincense & Myrrh Moisturizer ($15.00 for 1 oz) with my order but that particular jar was already confiscated by my mother. Not surprisingly she hasn't stopped raving about it ever since! 

My devotion to the Organic White Chocolate Truffle Moisturizer meant that ordering the MuLondon LE Organic White Chocolate Elbow, Knee & Heal Cream ($32.00 for 2 oz) was pretty much a given, especially since colder, drier weather is approaching and my dry skin will be in need of some major pampering and care very soon. Once again the scent has me intoxicated with its realness - there is absolutely nothing artificial about the White Chocolate fragrance! 

Melvita is yet another French organic skincare company that has been on my radar for a little while now so receiving the Melvita Foaming Facial Scrub ($27.00 for 2.5 oz) and Melvita Essential Oil - Soothing Care ($48.00 for 1 oz) as a birthday gift was especially delightful. The French are well known for their skincare (as evident on this blog) and Melvita is no exception to that statement. I have only used the products a few times so its too early to be specific about the yielded results however I can already tell that the Soothing Care Oil is a definite standout! Full reviews will follow once I have a chance to properly test them out for at least a few weeks.   

I first discovered the Organic Surge Skincare lineup through my love of various UK Beauty Blogs where their products receive huge rave reviews not just for their efficiency and ingredients but also for their reasonable prices as well. I was pretty bummed out to discover that they weren't available in Canada and that online orders were the only means of me getting my hands on their genius formulas. Imagine my surprise when I spotted the Organic Surge First Class Face Mask ($15.00 for 1.66 oz) at my local Winners - Homesense store. I snatched it up without even a second thought and seeing how masks are huge when it comes to my skincare routines I am very excited to see how Organic Surge Skincare compares to the masks I already have in my arsenal. 

I am very happy with all the additions to my overflowing skincare cabinet and for once I can say that my choices this time around were a little more calculated and useful this time around. The fact that its all more or less in the nature department makes me even happier :-)

Have you tried any of these products? What was you last skincare haul?

Thank you reading

XOXO

ANJA

The Mighty Five - Clay Mud Masks (You might be using them wrong!)

As a huge fan of skincare I regularly partake in skin pampering treatments and like a true addict my eyes are always open for the next, new thing to include in my already extensive beauty regiment. 

Face masks are one of my favorite skin-loving indulgences and as luck would have it, using them regularly and properly can make a world of difference when it comes to my sometimes irrational complexion. Today's beauty industry offers a mind-boggling array of treatment masks to pamper, revitalize and treat various skin problems that might be making you miserable. With a little information, research and direction you can find a great mask at any budget to deal with just about anything. The variety of formula types and ingredients used are the key to making the right choice when it comes to your specific skin type or the issue you want to tackle, meaning that taking a little time to familiarize yourself with the brand and product itself can be invaluable. 

If you have oily, acne-prone skin or just want to purify and deep clean then clay masks could be your best friends. This seemingly simple but profoundly powerful ingredient, clay, has been used for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes in many cultures for many centuries. Clay masks are excellent when it comes to removing excess oil, neutralizing impurities and toxins, tightening enlarged pores and even stimulating blood circulation. Essentially it gets rid of dead skin from the skin surface and at the same time gives you a huge radiance boost. So, no matter what your skin type is, a good clay mask is a must-have in your beauty arsenal! 

I have been using clay, mud masks for years but only recently did I learn that I have actually been using them the wrong way all this time - and even doing more harm then good to my own skin! Apparently the directions on the tube are not precise enough nor are they complete! Lovely :-(
The error of my ways was pointed out to me during a routine salon facial treatment and a little bit of dermatological research confirmed my mistake quite easily. 

What it comes down to is the fact that there are three phases of a clay mask;

1. Damp Phase - skin cells take in good-for-you treatment minerals from the mask medium

2. Dry Phase - exercises capillaries and stimulates blood flow as the mask cools and controls 

3. Final Dry Phase - skin starts to lose moisture through dehydration and may even result in irritation (dry, tight, itchy skin)

The first two phases are the beneficial steps, which is what you want to gain from the clay mask itself but the third step is one that needs to be avoided since it practically counteracts any good results you might get from the first two. The simple way to avoid the last stage is to rinse or remove the mask before it reaches the flaky, dried out state. 
When you start to see it drying (which usually means it gets lighter in color) but it still feels a bit sticky, it's time to wash it off with a damp, warm washcloth. Follow up with a light toning step to remove any residue and apply a rich, soothing moisturizer to bring moisture back in to your skin cells and seal in all the benefits from the healing mud.
Once I adjusted my clay mask pampering routine I have definitively seen more benefits and results from the masks themselves. Just that little change and a bit more vigilance on my part has made a world of difference and I am sure it will do the same for you guys as well!

In honor of this little tidbit of new skincare knowledge I wanted to start the Mighty Five series which will feature and spotlight five products from my own beauty stash that are getting the most use at the moment. What better way to start than with Clay Treatment Masks!

Bioelements Restorative Clay Natural Face Mask ($35.00 for 2.5 oz)

This is what I call a traditional, basic deep-cleansing clay mud mask. It works great for removing excess oil and toxins from the skin, improves skin texture and makes pores appear less visible. The recommended use is 2-3 times a week and the company helpfully indicates that if used at that regularity, one jar should last at least six months. Keeping that in mind I think the price is more than fair for a professional skincare product and definitively worth the initial investment. The texture of the clay is a little thicker than most masks but even as such remains easy to work with and feels cool on the skin surface. The scent is subtle, the clay feels comfortable on the skin itself, drying time is about 10 minutes and the mask is easily removed with a warm washcloth. The clay can also be used as a blemish spot treatment, yielding excellent results. The Bioelements Restorative Mask is something I use when my skin needs a very deep-cleanse or simply feels congested or oily. Its really a lovely basic, clay mask that delivers the results it promises and I would recommend it wholeheartedly!

Michael Todd True Organics Kaolin Clay Detoxifying Facial Mask ($34.00 for 3.4 oz)

As the name indicates this is a purifying, detoxifying soft clay mask with French green, white and pink Kaolin clay as the main active ingredient. The formula is a lot more gentle than some of the other typical deep cleansing masks but for me that's where the charm of this brand really is. The softer texture and milder nature means that this would be a great choice for those with more sensitive skin that usually suffer irritation from other similar masks. The biggest perk of this Michael Todd Kaolin Mask is its smoothing properties, meaning that it works amazingly well to improve skin texture and tone by detoxification and pore tightening. I love that the brand uses natural, organic ingredients in all of their products and is a great example that we don't need chemicals to treat and transform a troublesome complexion

Pure+simple Purifying French Clay Mask ($21.95 for 50 ml)

This mask is yet another example of how great natural ingredients can come together in an expert formula to deliver phenomenal and yet gentle results for all skin types. The French clay works great because of its unique ability to remove excess oil and toxins from the skin cells without over-drying or irritation that is sometimes common with other clay masks. This particular formula is ideal for individuals that are dealing with blemishes, skin congestion and dehydrated skin, which is actually a really common combination even with those who consider themselves as oily skin types. What I love about the Pure+simple Purifying French Clay Mask is that its very gentle and seems to significantly reduce the redness from my ruddy cheeks even after just one use. Seeing how the Pure+simple brand is Canadian I am a little biased in my affection for them but anyone who has either used their products or experienced one of their holistically based facial treatments is bound to be completely smitten by this environmentally conscious, natural company. 

Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Clay Mask ($49.95 for 3.06 oz)

This particular cleansing clay mask requires a little bit of DIY on your part prior to use but I think that is exactly what makes this formula unique and appealing in its own way. What you are working with is a combination of finely ground clay blended with witch hazel and extracts of natural nasturtium which creates a potent, concentrated formula that is capable of treating blemishes, blackheads and various impurities hanging around your pores. The clay particles mixed with water create a deeply cleansing medium that purifies, softens and even gently exfoliates the skin surface with each treatment. Since each mask portion is made fresh this means that you can control the texture, potency and amount used which albeit messy also elevates the facial experience to a spa-like level. Dr. Hauschka Skin Care is definitively on the pricy side however their mission and commitment to natural ingredients, well-being of the environment, fair-trade initiatives and ecologically sound methods for everything they do; is more than admirable and makes their products worth the investment.  

Marcelle Essentials Clay Mask ($14.50 for 3.7 oz)

I am a huge Marcelle fan (read my Canadian Beauty brand feature here!) and even though they are technically considered a drug-store brand I think the quality and products they offer put them in a much higher brand bracket than they are given credit for. The price point and reputation of the Essentials Clay Mask is definitively underrated especially when you consider that the performance and results the formula gives can compete with treatment masks with a much higher price tag. This does it all: absorbs oil, removes toxins due to congestion, smooths skin texture, refines pores in the T-zone and works amazingly well as a overnight spot treatment. The texture is creamy, making it easy to spread out and work with but its also thick enough to make the removal process a breeze as well. The results are almost instant and regular use makes a huge difference when it comes to radiance and healthy glow. The compliments keep coming! 

After all it did win the In Style Best Beauty Buy 2012 Award!  

Now that I shared my new found clay mask tip and my favorite picks its your turn! 

What is your most used cleansing clay mask? 

Thank you for reading! 

XOXO

ANJA

The Seasons Are Changing And So Should Your Skincare!

I love summer! I love the sunshine, the trips to the beach, barbecues, exciting outdoor festivals and lets not even talk about the exhibition parks. I turn into a 12 year old girl almost instantly.

Despite the fact that summers obviously have all kinds of attractive qualities, my notorious fickle nature starts pining for the different kind of warmth only autumn can bring and daydreaming about chestnuts and rich jewel-toned colors develops pretty quickly after that.
Lets face it, the hot muggy weather and constant "perspiration", loses its very charm quickly when it comes to a girly girl like me. By the time September rolls around I am more than ready for a change!

With the season rotation the beauty connoisseur in me gets pretty excited about making the switch to a more fall-appropriate makeup color palette, treating the whole transition process like some kind of a "lifestyle makeover" and relishing each new discovery to its fullest.
As my beauty experience evolved I began to recognize that my skincare concerns were also affected by the upcoming temperature and environmental changes which naturally progressed to a shift in those routines as well. You would be surprised just how big of a difference a few formulation changes can make when it comes to skin happiness and more importantly, the ever elusive comfort factor. 

The warmer summer temperatures called for refreshingly light and usually gel-like textures, all of which will prove to be insufficient once the cold weather comes around. Those of you with drier skin will agree with me right away but I am sure that everyone would benefit from a little richer and creamier formulas once the cold starts setting in. The go-to summer products start under-performing but luckily I already have amazing back-ups to supplement my beauty regiment well before the Canadian weather starts playing around.

Today you guys get to witness yet another glimpse in to my beauty saturated world. It can get pretty ridiculous but try to bear with me - I promise there is definitively a method to my madness! 

Cleansing Procedures 

When choosing a cleanser for the fall or winter season the thing I always look for is that wondrous combination of "creaminess" and the "gentle factor". The summer may have vied for the "cooling effect" but in the cooler weather my bigger concern and end result is always all about efficiency without any kind of stripping or over-drying. In fact all of my "wintery" picks focus on adding things in to the skin as opposed to taking things out, which is something that can be a little tricky when it comes to the cleansing step. Essentially the cleanser needs to be able to effectively but gently clean my skin and enrich & hydrate all at once. Needless to say my love affair with cleansing balms becomes even more evident around this time because their balmy formulas when it comes to the concept of cleansing hydration.
My favorite transitional cleansers are: Pai Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser ($70.00 for 6.8 oz), Suki Creamy Foaming Cleanser ($32.95 for 4 oz) and Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm ($35.00 for 3.8 oz).

Exfoliating my dry and sometimes flaky complexion is accomplished by an even more regular use of my Clarisonic Mia Cleansing System ($139.00), which coupled with my choice chemical exfoliants keeps everything smooth and in-check without over-drying and further irritation. When my skin needs happens to need a little bit extra scrubbing TLC then I reach for some substantially creamy and function targeted facial scrubs, which do the job quickly and swiftly in a manner of just a few minutes.
The most important thing about these scrubs is that they hydrate my skin without being greasy or clog-worthy!
Some of the best are: Michael Todd True Organics Tropical Fruit Enzyme Exfoliant Scrub ($18.00 for 3.4 oz), Aveda Tourmaline Charged Radiant Skin Refiner ($40.00 for 3.5 oz) and Juara Rice Facial Scrub ($29.00 for 4.75 oz).

The Toning and Treatment Step

The debate whether or not a skincare routine really needs a toner completely ended for me when I discovered the genius nature of chemical exfoliants and I really haven't looked back. Swiping a saturated cotton pad over your face takes mere seconds and the difference that short amount of time has had on my skin texture and appearance is more than amazing. For me that has solidified the toning step and I really can't imagine me ever cutting it out. The only thing that is important is choosing a formula that is gentle and low in alcohol content in order to minimize any over-stripping and drying, which is especially important during the winter months when vast amounts of time is spent in artificially heated environments.
My firm favorites still include Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner ($34.00 for 120 ml), Biologique Recherche P50 ($89.00 for 8.5 oz) and the new Korres Pomegranate Toner ($26.00 for 6.75 oz).

No skincare routine is complete without a treatment serum, which is basically souped up, targeted health supplement for your skin. The beauty of serums lies in the fact that depending on the formulation you choose you can treat any specific concern or problem your very own skin requires - nothing beats personalization when it comes to beauty routines and including one of these in yours is a sure-fire way to whatever your little heart desires.
Since I am a proud Canadian, our wonderfully cold winters and my own dry skin require highly hydrating, soothing and protective potions to help me acclimatize to the ridiculously fluctuating temperatures.
Serums that get the most play in my bathroom are: Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment ($80.00 for .81 oz), Murad Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum ($63.00 for 1 oz) and my trusty Clarins Bi-Phase HydraQuench Intensive Serum ($58.00 for 1 oz).

More and More Hydration

Keeping up with the hydration theme I am sure you can predict that my moisturization is going to be even more important during this transition phase and as the winter months get closer it will gradually intensify even more. My skin is definitively on the drier end of the spectrum but its also easily irritated and prone to clogging, which makes choosing a richer moisturizer a little trickier than usual. The formula needs to be deeply hydrating, soothing and rejuvenating but can't be filled with traditionally clog-prone ingredients such as mineral oil and the various "butter" variants.
The all stars in my skincare arsenal include: Tatcha Moisture Rich Silk Cream ($150.00 for 1.7 oz) and my new favorite MuLondon Organic White Chocolate Truffle Moisturizer ($24.00 for 2 oz). The MuLondon Skincare is probably one of the greatest discoveries of the summer for me so expect in-depth reviews very soon.

Another way I hydrate and pamper my skin pretty much year round is by including regular facial mask sessions each week and making sure to choose hydrating, luxurious formulas for maximum effect and best results. My favorite time to use them is right after a shower or hot bath on clean, warm and damp skin, leaving them to do their magic as I busy myself with body lotions, creams and rich moisturizing oils. Nothing beats beauty multi-tasking!
My new discoveries include: Rodial Dragons Blood Hyaluronic Mask ($45.00 for 50 ml), KORA Organics Hydrating Mask ($49.95 for 100 ml) and my new-found obsession Tarte Amazonian Clay Double Detox Facial System ($46.00 for the set!).

Just glancing at my blog and the over abundance of blog posts such as this one clearly illustrates the fact that I take my skincare very seriously so much as that I continuously invent reasons to talk about my over-planned regiments. With that in mind, its obvious that a lot of the products I introduce are not necessarily must-haves in a regular persons skincare routine however I can't deny the fact that all of these really do make a difference in the way my own skin looks and feels.
I firmly believe that investing in good skincare products, expensive or not, is important to every beauty queen out there - after all those beautiful fall makeup color palettes will never get to shine with their full potential is your complexion is lacking that healthy, radiant glow!

Do you change your skincare products with each season? Any favorites I need to know about?

Thank you for the reading :)

XOXO

ANJA

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and want some more Princeza Beauty Musings, please consider following me through GFC, Bloglovin, Pinterest or Twitter! Insert "happy dance" here :-)

The Princeza Guide to Bedtime Beauty

It really is no secret that I happen to be a high-maintenance girl in almost every sense of that concept. My natural "girliness" drives almost everything I do and experience throughout my day and as such I embrace it wholeheartedly and openly. The tomboy nature of my childhood has all but died out now and pink sparkly-shiny things seem to dominate my existence and my surroundings. There is nothing wrong with that, right?

This femininity naturally extends into how I approach my beauty regiments and nothing illustrates that more than my bedtime rituals. Each and every step of this routine is designed to relax, comfort and elevate the beautification process, which is something I look forward to especially on those really bad days. It might sound like I am putting way too much thought into this and over-complicating the whole experience but that is exactly the point when you are doing something you love. At least whoever goes to bed with me will be able to reap the benefits of my silky, fragranced self :-)

For better overview I have divided the bedtime beauty process in several steps so you can see just how seriously I can take this!

1. Cleanliness Is Next To Godliness 
I try to shower each night before bed for two reasons - I have a thing about being clean all the time and more importantly I value my sleep immensely so the chances of a morning shower are usually slim to none.
The scent can be very important for bedtime use so I try not to choose any "perky" or "energizing" scent combinations. A gentle, soothing and moisturizing formula is always a must so that along with the fragrance requirement can make my choice somewhat difficult.
One that hits all those points and is one of my favorites is the This Works Deep Sleep Shower Gel ($28.00 for 8.4 oz) and the Cowshed Lazy Cow Soothing Bath & Shower Gel ($25.00 for 10 oz)

2. Butter Yourself Up 
I firmly believe that smooth, silky and soft skin is one of the top attributes of our femininity. Not only does your skin feel more comfortable with proper moisturization but it can also elevate your confidence like nothing else, regardless of the given situation. Bedtime pampering gives you the perfect opportunity for this because as we all know your skin renews and rejuvenates itself best during the night so arming it with some extra emollients can only amplify that effect.
My personal collection of body lotions and rich body butters are quite extensive but the ones I reach for more often during the summer months are Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter ($42.00 for 8 oz), Barr-Co. Fine Shea Butter Lotion ($24.00 for 16 oz) and the amazing The Body Shop Divine Calm Body Butter ($20.00 for 6.75 oz).

Bedtime 1 with The Body Shop , Anthropologie, Josie Maran

3. Amplified Bedtime Skincare Routine 
I already have a very extensive night time skincare routine with serums, eye creams and heavy duty moisturizers already in place. I like to refer to this as my core regiment and the major theme here is once again regenerate and rejuvenate in order to help the skin's natural nigh-time repair cycle. The products may change but their purpose remains relatively the same.
Every few nights I try to elevate the core with some additional weapons from my bathroom cabinet that really make a difference in both my skin quality and feel.
I am talking about overnight hydration masks (Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Water-Max Sleeping Mask), resurfacing treatments (Dr. Brandt Overnight Resurfacing Serum), targeted imperfection creams (Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel) and nightime eye serums (Ole Henriksen Truth is in the Eyes Vitamin C Peel Concentrate)

4. Luxury Girly Necessities 
These steps illustrate my high-maintenance nature best. They are obviously not must-have's and most probably don't have all that many major skin or body benefits but are complete indulgences of the beauty world and as such my favorite perks of being a girl. Taking the time to add these little steps to my bedtime make a huge difference when it comes to calming, comforting and preparing me for that lovely slumber time we all need more of.
Deeply moisturizing treatment hand creams take care of the most overlooked but so important body part and only take a few minutes to apply so I really have no excuse when it comes to using them. I keep several mini tubes on my bed-stand and the ones that always stand out are the impossibly cute LUSH Tiny Hands Hand Lotion ($8.95), Compagnie de Provence Wild Rose Shea Butter Hand Cream ($5.50 for 1 oz) and Lollia Relax Shea Butter Handcreme ($25.00 for 4 oz)

Bedtime 2 with Lollia, Compagnie de Provence, LUSH

Moisturizing and nourishing lip treatments are always a must for me and the ones that I love the most (right now) are Tatcha Camellia Nourishing Lip Balm ($36.00), First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Therapy ($15.00) and the new Nivea Lip Butter in Vanilla & Macadamia Kiss ($3.99)
My eye lashes get some extra help and conditioning with the Mavala Eye-Lite Double Lash Night Treatment ($18.00) and L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum ($14.99)

Bedtime 3 with Lush, Disney, Prada Candy

5. Bonus Point Steps 
You are probably rolling your eyes by now but I promise I almost done! The finishing touches to this elaborate bedtime indulgence parade are a quick spritz of perfume (PRADA Candy), dusting powder on the sheets (LUSH Silky Underwear Dusting Powder) and maybe a pillow spray (DREAM Pillow Mist)

I think its pretty obvious at this point that I have an obvious cosmetic fetish and rest assured I am fully aware of this but I would still gladly recommend all of these products to anyone who is looking to make their bedtime routine a little more luxurious!
After all beauty products are wonderful perks of our feminine existence and we are all worthy of a little luxury :-)

I hope you enjoyed a tiny glimpse into my beauty product world

Do you have a bedtime routine? What is your favorite part?

XOXO

ANJA

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and want some more Princeza Beauty Musings, please consider following me through GFC, Bloglovin, Pinterest or Twitter! Insert "happy dance" here :-) 

Origins Masks - Drink Up Intensive Overnight and Mega Mushroom Skin Relief

Origins is a true skincare brand and not

surprisingly it was one of the pioneers that led to the inclusion of natural ingredients and essential oils to already innovative scientific formulations. 

In fact the Origins team insisted that skincare didn't need to be harsh and abrasive in order to treat skin conditions and in fact set out to prove that skin actually responds more positively when exposed to gentler, natural formulas that soothe and nurture at the same time.

It was Origins that paved the route for today's popular natural organic brands that are using the same methods today to heal skin conditions based on the same principle that Origins came up with yesterday. 

Today Origins continues to be very popular in the skincare industry, and is constantly releasing "souped up" versions of those early formulations as new technology and research becomes available. 

Naturally as a skincare connoisseur I have made it my mission to test out some of their popular picks and knowing how much I like the "supplementary" steps of my already ridiculous routine, picking out a few treatment masks seemed like the most natural choice. 
My two favorite Origins discoveries are the Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask and Dr.Weil's Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Mask. 

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask Description;

Skin depends on water for its youthful functioning. But all day long, skin loses vital moisture. And the busier you are, the more it loses. This intense moisture replacement mask with Avocado and Apricot Kernel Oil deeply and instantly quenches compromised moisture reserves and builds a reservoir for tomorrow. Japanese Seaweed repairs skin's barrier to prevent future dehydration and signs of premature aging.

The Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask is a potent, moisturizing treatment mask that harshness's the natural hydration powers of the creamy Avocado and the rich, nourishing Apricot Kernel Oil. Its probably the most famous of all Origins products and as such comes with a  long list of devoted fans, including almost every Beauty Blogger like me. 

The main function of the Drink Up mask is to hydrate deeply beneath the surface  and replenish your skin's natural moisture balance.

Another important attribute of the Drink Up Intensive Mask is the fact that its very comfortable to wear so leaving this on for longer periods of time is easily done and can even be described as pleasant to some extent. The mask scent is more than amazing - tropical fruity goodness that really should be bottled and sold as a fragrance. I know that I would purchase it in a heartbeat :-) 

Once I remove the mask with a warm facecloth I am greeted with soft, silky, smooth, plumped up and radiant complexion. I really couldn't be happier with this mask. 

Origins Mega Mushroom Skin-Relief Mask Description; 

This creamy treatment mask with Hypsizygus Ulmarius, Cordyceps and Reishi mushrooms along with Ginger, Holy Basil and Turmeric rushes to relief to challenged skin to help soothe signs of compromise. Chinese Black Bamboo Leaf Extract, celebrated for centuries as a symbol of eternal youth, helps quell and calms visible redness and reactivity.

A unique blend of marine algae and moisture-replenishing plant extracts helps revitalise and restore luminosity to stressed skin and rebuild a protective barrier to help avoid future flare-ups. to stressed skin aBasil nd rebuild a protective barrier to help avoid future flare-ups. with Hypsizygus Ulmarius, Cordyceps and Reishi mushrooms along with Ginger, Holy and Turmeric rushes to relief to challenged skin to help soothe signs of compromise. Chinese Black Bamboo Leaf Extract, celebrated for centuries as a symbol of eternal youth, helps quell and calms visible redness and reactivity.

A unique blend of marine algae and moisture-replenishing plant extracts helps revitalise and restore luminosity to stressed skin and rebuild a protective barrier to help avoid future flare-ups.

The Origins Dr. Weil  Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Mask is quite different than the Drink Up version mostly because its specifically targeted towards very sensitive, reactive skin and strives to calm, soothe and boost the radiance of even the most stressed skin. My fellow Sensitive Skin Care Members will definitively reap the most benefits from this particular formulation especially since the Mega-Mushroom Mask doesn't require rinsing and can be removed with a simple tissue thereby reducing any further irritation. It promises to soothe superficial redness, calm any random blotches on the skin surface and just makes the entire complexion feel a lot more more comfortable. 

How can we really ask for more?

These two Origin's masks, along with their other products can be purchased directly from their website, our trusty Sephora or Amazon

I hope you found this helpful :-)

Have you tried any Origin's masks? Which ones are your favorites?

XOXO

ANJA

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and want some more Princeza Beauty Musings, please consider following me through GFC, Bloglovin, Pinterest or Twitter! Insert "happy dance" here :-) 

Cult Beauty - GLAMGLOW Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask

Once again I have added yet another mask to my skincare collection and it is one that I have waited to try out for some time but knowing just how many deep cleansing, mud based masks were already in my collection I tried really hard to resist the temptation and ignore the constant raves I read during my daily beauty blog trawls.  

The Glamglow brand is relatively new to the skincare industry but the ingredient quality, instantaneous results and A-list celebrity following have made this seemingly simple mud mask in to a cult-worthy product in record time. The other factor that contributed to the brand popularity is the unique fact that this mask was actively marketed towards both the female and male demographic and in turn recognized the rising metro-sexual trends across the world. What that means is that modern men today are finally understanding that cosmetics have a place in their bathroom drawers as well and their pampering doesn't necessarily mean that they are engaging in stereotypical "feminine" behavior. 

That being said I want to make it cleat that there are no circumstances under which I would share my Glamglow! This mask really is that good and its also the only beauty product I hide from the bathroom when I am having overnight guests...Paranoid much? 

If you have read some of my other skincare posts then you already know that I don't have a lot of patience when it comes to waiting around for results and therefore I am always a huge fan of "instant gratification" when it comes to beauty and "real life" as well. 

Glamglow definitively did not disappoint and after a single use it was very clear to me how this "facial in a jar" earned such a stellar reputation and elite fan base. It worked so well that it even surpassed the results of my beloved Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask, which was twice as expensive as the Glamglow ($69.00 for 1.7 fl.oz.)

I wouldn't necessarily say that a particular supplementary skincare product (especially a pricy one) is an essential to achieving great skin health but I am very tempted to say exactly that when it comes to this Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask. 

Description;
This mud mask leaves skin noticeably radiant and glowing. It activates moisturizing collagen synthesis, provides gentle resurfacing exfoliation, and helps to leave skin smoother, brighter, and softer. While providing tighter skin texture and tighter pores, it provides a more youthful appearance and absorbs impurities without removing natural oils.

Ingredients;

Water, Montmorillonite, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Polyethylene, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Leaf Extract, Lavandula Hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Glycerin, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Diazolidinyl Urea.

The Glamglow formula is created, manufactured and perfected without any of the usual skin-offendoors - sulfates, petrochemicals, artificial dyes and fragrances. Instead they harness the power of French Sea Clay which not only absorbs impurities but also enriches the skin with essential oils and minimizes pore appearance. The presence of Volcanic Pumice Rock is said to support deep surface exfoliation, resulting in softer textured skin and temporary fine line reduction, 

The main anti-aging weapon Glamglow provides is the patent-pending TEAOXI technology, which uses the nutrition found in green tea leafs for antioxidant protection and re-balancing of your skin's natural moisture barriers. 

The texture of the Glamglow Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask initially looks like that of a conventional clay mask whose primary purpose is deep cleansing and clearing of clogged pores. The similarities end there and the Glamglow shows its true nature only once its slathered on your face and the tingling begins to build. 

A word of warning - this mask is extremely concentrated and potent, so much so that some individuals will find it unbearable and impossible to complete the full 10 minutes. The Sensitive Skin Care Members need to stay far away from the Glamglow products as the actives suspended in the mud can cause a very intense sensation and possible irritation and reactivity upon use.

Personally I normally avoid masks like this because i find them too intense with the tingling-burning sesations however once i gave it a try, meaning after only one use the results in my complexion were almost dramamtic and I realized right away that there is no going back to anything less. My skin was radiant, glowy, smooth, soft, silky and calm - all adjectives that would have been impossible to use just 10 minytes before. 

Its moments like those that make me realize just how great of a formula the Glamglow Mud really is!

At this point a repurchase is definitively in order :-)

For more information or to purchase the GLAMGLOW mask ($69.00 for 1.7 oz)  just visit their website, our trusty Sephora or Amazon. 

I hope that was helpful :-)

Have you trueed the Glamglow Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask? Do you have a favorite as well?

XOXO 

\

ANJA

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Review - Malin + Goetz Detox Mask

Despite the fact that the Malin+Goetz brand was launched in 2004 their products as well as their stores have a very old-fashioned, old-worldly apothecary look, drawing in customers with innovative skincare formulas and ideas that subsequently have us coming back for more. Their main concern and direction deals with taking care of sensitive skin types but also with creating formulas that protect all of their customer skins from the harsh environmental and pollution factors in New York City and beyond.
The old-fashioned product approach is complimented with today's busy lifestyles so their formulations are usually multi-tasking, quick and effective in order to satisfy their customer needs.

Malin+Goetz is a relatively new brand for me but their detox mask has got to be one of the most unique and interesting products I've ever had the pleasure to work with. It doesn't matter how many times I use it, its performance is always fascinating to me and I get almost giddy as I watch it do its thing in the mirror. If you ever used it then you must know exactly what I mean! Its very easy to see why this is a repeat winner of the Allure Beauty Awards in the Deep Cleansing Mask category.

If you've read my blog posts before then you know how much I appreciate a multitasking product and the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask is one of the best I have ever come across.
Its recommended for use as a face mask, deep cleanser, hydration treatment and even shaving cream. Prepare to have your mind blown!

Official Description;

An easy 5-minute foaming gel mask: Innovative, oxygenating cleansing agents replace harsh detergents and drying clays to deep-pore-cleanse, lifting dirt, oil and make-up away from the skin without irritation, while creating a physical barrier to seal hydration. Complex amino acids and natural almond extract gently and effectively purify, clarify, balance and soothe. Stable Vitamin C, antioxidants Vitamin E and Soy Protein help firm and address concerns for aging while instantly brightening complexion. Natural fragrance and color. C, antioxidants Vitamin E and Soy Protein help firm and address concerns for aging while instantly brightening complexion. Natural fragrance and color.

Key Ingredients;

Squalene, glycerin, and sodium pca moisturize and hydrate; 

Soy protein and panthenol firm; 

Green tea extract and vitamin e work as antioxidants; vitamin c smoothes lines.

The Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask is a high performance, high quality and highly effective formulation that is just so much fun to use that there are weeks I find myself slathering this on almost every second day. Its a foaming gel-type mask that in matter of minutes transforms into a tingling, delicate bubble veil that fizzes away all the dirt, grime and even makeup from your deepest pores. 

What is unique about this product is its customize-able  nature which allows you to adjust its usage based on your particular skin type. Oily skin can use a thin layer of this mask on a daily basis for deep cleansing and oil control while those "blessed" with dryer skin are recommended to apply a thicker layer to act as a night-time hydrating cleanser. Both skin types, even members of the Sensitive Skin Care Club, can use this a couple of times a week as both a deep cleansing and hydrating mask treatment. 

Once on the skin the gel begins to "fizzle" and "pop" creating this tingling-tickling sensation that remind me of alka-seltzer tablets being dropped into a glass of water. I am a big of fan of this particular phenomenon and no matter how bad my day was this little gem just makes me giggle like a little girl. I have never had a mask make me so happy before so for that reason alone the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask will always be repurchased. 

When the "fizzing" subsides, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes, the foam can be washed or wiped with a warm washcloth, leaving the skin feeling clean, soft, supple and radiant. The results really are instantaneous and I am all about instant gratification so this is a win-win for me.

I have been very impressed with the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask and would recommend it to anyone. If nothing else it will at least put a smile on your face. 

The Detox Face Mask ($40 for 4 oz) and other Malin+Goetz products can be purchased directly from their website. 

I hope this was helpful :-)

Have you tried the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask? What is your favorite face mask?

XOXO

ANJA

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Passport Beauty - NARUKO Narcissus Total Defense Night Gelly

As a certified skincare junkie there is nothing I love more than discovering a new brand or even better an innovative product that introduces me to a completely different way I can pamper my complexion. If said item comes from a part of the world that focuses on and appreciates good skin-loving ingredients, then I have obviously hit the Skincare Jackpot. 

Asia has always been ahead of the western world when it comes to caring for the skin, with most skincare trends starting exactly there. BB Creams and Sheet Masks are excellent examples of game-changing products that were used for years before making their way to North America. There is a deliberate pattern of more importance placed on treating the skin than covering everything up with heavy makeup. I love that concept because it really rings true - if your complexion is unhealthy then makeup application will be that much harder. Asian brands are on the forefront of that concept and inclusion of skin-friendly ingredients continues to spill over into their makeup products as well.

Because of my appreciation for Asian skincare and as part of the Passport Beauty series I wanted to feature a few standout products from the far east.
NARUKO Narcussus Total Defense Night Gelly is the first one and it came to me all the way from sunny Taiwan.


Description;

Naruko Narcissus Night Gelly is a new formulated night gelly works ideally as an overnight mask. Enriched with narcissus bulb extract and the patented Phytoferulin® complex provides the skin with hydration and anti-oxidants and enhances the skin's natural self-defense and self-repairing system. Overnight mask to quench skin's thirst. Wonderfully moisturized, deeply nourished and plumped, skin emerges infinitely regenerated. Leaves your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated from the surface right down to the core.

How to use;

1. Use the spoon included in the package to scoop out a small amount of the night gelly.
2. Apply the gelly with the middle and ring fingers to blend it evenly on the face.
3. Use the fingertips to gently massage and press it thoroughly. No need to rinse it with water.

Key Ingredients;

Narcissus Bulb Extract 

Patented Phytoferulin® complex 

NARUKO Narcissus Night Gelly is essentially an overnight, hydrating mask that is used to "seal" in all the treatments applied during your nighttime skincare routine. Its very similar to the Origins Overnight Drink-Up hydrating mask. I like to call this my sleeping mask.

The key ingredients Narcissus Bulb Extract and Phytoferulin combined provide deep hydration, antioxidant protection and activation of the skin's own self-defense & self-repairing systems. The next morning your skin will look brighter, plumped up, dewy and radiant. I was actually surprised at just how visible the brightening effect was on my complexion.


The texture of the Night Gelly is light like jello and feels so soothing and silky on the skin surface. I used this on a few stuffy, hot nights and it had a significant cooling effect, on top of all the other skin benefits. I suggest putting it in the fridge about 20 minutes prior to using it and the icy factor will be beyond refreshing, while the light botanical scent will help relax and soothe your thoughts away. Thats something we all need at bedtime!


I don't usually make comments about the outer packaging of my products but NARUKO deserves a special mention. This company has taken a very unique concept for the reuse & recycle movement by making the outer box transformable into a cute stationary stand. That little detail earns bonus points in my book!

My final conclusion is definitively positive and I would definitively recommend the NARUKO Narcissus Total Defense Night Gelly to everyone because I really believe in its performance. Its a joy to use in the summer and delivers an extra kick of hydration without making me feel greasy. I cant comment on its long term effects just yet but as far as instant gratification goes this is as good as it gets. The brightening results are very noticeable and that alone is an excellent reason to continue using it.


You can find NARUKO products, including the Night Gelly at SASA ($17.60) or Amazon ($22). 

Have you tried NARUKO skincare? What's your favorite nighttime mask?

XOXO

ANJA


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Review - Avene Antirougeurs Calm - Soothing Repair Mask

Masks are an integral part of my skincare routine and I really try to fit them in a couple times each week. Pampering and treating my skin comes hand in hand for me so I need to make sure my treatment mask choices are effective, smart and chock full of ingredients that are proven to deliver. 

Avene is a no-frills, no-nonsense, affordable French pharmacy brand whose products are all enriched with the healing properties of their exclusive Thermal Spring Water. Everything Avene makes is designed and suitable for use by those of us with sensitive skin issues, a fact that has made them popular with skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists all over the world. Further endorsement is ensured knowing that all Avene products are paraben-free, fragrance & color free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

My own experience with Avene has always been positive and even though choosing the right products can sometimes be a challenge I have found that a little bit of research is definitively worth the effort. Customer service "skin specialists" are very helpful and genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about all of their products so consulting them is always a breeze. 

Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask is one of their less celebrated treatments, a fact most likely due to its level of specialization and function.

The soothing repair mask is a treatment used for some of the more dramatic skin emergency incidents. Essentially this stuff is to be saved for when your skin is in dire need of comfort and healing. 

Description;

When skin experiences discomfort, pulling or heated sensations, it can be hard to calm the flare-up. The Repair Mask instantly soothes angry skin with its fresh and creamy texture, and then works deep within the skin to improve skin microcirculation with Ruscus extract. This ensures that both long-term diffuse redness and temporary redness are reduced, and the skin is moisturised and repaired.

Key Ingredients;

Avene Thermal Spring Water (54%), Saponin-Enriched Ruscus Extract (0.1%), Sucralfate (1%)

The soothing and repairing nature of the mask is pronounced most dramatically when you really make your skin mad by either environmental factors (extreme weather),biological issues (over-treating-exfoliating) or just plain negligence. Just 10 minutes of wear time will deliver calmer and comfortable skin. It really is a wonder when it comes to soothing dry patches, redness, mystery rashes and otherwise compromised, inflamed skin. The palpable cooling effect reduces any heat inflammation, stinging irritation and will actually reduce skin reactivity post treatment. I like to refer to it as an "ice-pack" for your face. 

The healing factor is so intense that the Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask is widely recommended for patients post cosmetic procedures to relieve discomfort and accelerate skin's natural repair cycle. The gentle but potent nature of the formula is proven just by that fact alone - if you can use it on inflamed, post-peel skin then using it during "normal" times should be a breeze. There is no strict regiment requirement which means that the mask is to be used as needed without worrying about over-saturation or residue build up. 

The texture of the mask is very creamy, whipped and silky so it feels exceptionally nice on your skin. I love the fact that I cant detect any greasiness at all so I can leave it on comfortable without being constantly "aware of my face". Removal is fairly easy - a moist, luke-warm facecloth does the job quickly and efficiently in just a few strokes. Adding the Avene Thermal Spring Water on top (as recommended) completes the facial experience, giving you a cool, comfortable skin to work with. 

The final conclusion is very positive and I would (and have) recommend this mask to everyone but especially those with reactive, sensitive skin. Its definitively nice to have for those skin mishaps we all have once in a while. 

Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask ($33.75) and other Avene products can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Canada or purchased online at the Skinfo Skincare Boutique here. 

Have you tried Avene products? Any favorites? 

XOXO

ANJA

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