Favourite Five

 

If there was one overriding theme to the Fall/Winter runway shows in Paris, Milan, London and New York, it was glowing, healthy skin. Francois Nars took the theme to the extreme for Marc Jacobs’ spring show in New York by sending models down the catwalk with only a little moisturizer – no makeup whatsoever. Few women will follow his lead, but the nude makeup trend does begin with great skin.

These models at the Frame Denim presentation illustrate this look. Clean, moisturized and radiant complexions work well with the simple cotton and denim outfits. Melissa Gibson, a MAC Pro Artist, sums it up best when she says every great makeup look begins with good skincare.

I’ve been a big fan of philosophy skincare for years. I’ve featured it many times on Cityline and promote it whenever I can. I do think the formulas are very good and well-priced. But I understand that navigating through philosophy’s extensive skincare line can be a little intimidating considering that most of the products look the same: black print on white jars. But don’t let that dissuade you! This New York-based skin care brand offers some of the best formulas on the market today. Not only are most very gentle on skin, the majority offer multiple benefits. Company founder Cristina Carlino sums it up best when she says, “We only develop what we believe will be useful to the end consumer. In the end, excellence matters more.” And by foregoing multi-million dollar ad campaigns and celebrity models, the brand can invest those savings into the science and quality of ingredients.

 

Here is the best way to discover the philosophy brand.

 

1.     purity cleanser

It’s no coincidence that Allure magazine crowned this creamy cleanser with its 2014 Readers’ Choice Award. In fact, purity has won dozens of awards around the world for its exceptional quality. This fresh, lemon-scented formula gently cleanses, tones and melts away all face and eye makeup in one step. Better yet, it gently hydrates making it the ideal cleanser for cold, dry winters. I use it daily! You just gently massage a quarter-size amount onto a damp face and massage for 30 seconds. Rinse and pat dry. You can even use it on hair to remove any conditioner or product build-up. A truly great product.

 

2.     hope in a jar moisturizer

In 1996, Oprah declared hope in a jar one of her “favourite things” on national television. The product sold out in minutes when she stated that she uses it daily. The brand itself debuted at barney’s new york quickly becoming one of the retailer’s most popular brands. What’s great about this lightweight daily moisturizer is that is hydrates and works to improve skin texture and tone. It even packs protection against anti-oxidants. The original formula was created for doctor’s offices. Works for all skin types.

 

3.     time in a bottle daily age-defying serum

This anti-aging serum targets all major signs of skin-aging with a unique dna renewal complex and high-potency vitamin activator. It works to promote the skin’s own renewal and protection processes. Skin looks more radiant, wrinkle-free, smooth and firm after eight weeks.

 

4.     when hope is not enough omega 3 6 9 replenishing oil

This replenishing oil is a secret weapon in the fight against very dry skin. Simply massage a drop into skin after cleansing and top with a moisturizer for very dry skin. It soothes and helps bring skin back into its proper moisture balance. Essential fatty acids omega 3 and 6 and unsaturated omega 9 help to protect against environmental attack. It also helps sooth irritated skin.

 

5.     miracle worker anti-aging retinoid eye repair

Clinical studies prove that the most powerful anti-aging ingredients remain retinoids. But they can be irritating unless handled carefully. This formula offers all the benefits of Vitamin A but with less potential for irritation. It works to dramatically improve the look of wrinles and discoloration. Targeted peptides reduce under-eye bags and dark circles. The key with using eye creams is consistency and time. You have to use them daily and give them a full eight weeks to see best results. Most people give up too early before the products have had a chance to really work. This is a good eye cream!