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BEAUTY TREATMENT

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Beauty Olympics 2008: Skincare: Face, Body & Nails

Natayle Henry

Finding the right skin regime can be a costly and tedious endeavor. With so many products to choose from (and so many convincing sales people) many women wind up spending hundreds of dollars before finding products that actually work. The products below have been put through the wringer and tested by some of the toughest critics. These are the best of the best!

Skincare (Face)

Normal Skin
Skincare three-step system: Om Aroma Luxe Face Collection (Champagne, Caviar & Truffles)
“With names like Champagne, Caviar and Truffles, you know you are getting a luxurious product. My skin has never felt and looked so good! Best of all, the line is organic!” —Eve M., Graphic Designer

Scrub: Vivité Daily Exfoliating Facial Cleanser
“Most gentle and left a silky smooth surface on my face.” —Carol Calacci, Managing Editor

Moisturizer with SPF: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30
“I love the smell and feel of this moisturizer! Not only does my skin feel supple, but it’s also protected from the sun.” —Cindy Stevenson, Marketing VP

Night Cream: Om Aroma & Co.
“LOVE this cream! There isn’t one thing I don’t like. The smell is amazing, my skin looks and feels fantastic!” —Mequilla Lewis, Makeup Artist

Mask: Exuviance by Neo Strata Rejuvinating Treatment Masque (editor’s pick)
“With an exclusive alpha and polyhydroxy acid (AHA/PHA) blend that stimulates cell renewal, you are sure to see healthier skin.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Anti-Wrinkle Treatment: VIVITÉ
“After only 3 weeks of using this, my wrinkles began to fade. This is a MUST for anyone with even a wrinkle.” —Sarah James, PR Rep

Anti-Aging: Prévage
“Prevage is the best! Hands down. I have used it for two years now and nothing works better.” —Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-in-Chief

Dry, Sensitive Skin
Cleanser: Shiseido Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam (editor’s pick)
“A creamy, rich-lathering cleanser that lifts away makeup and impurities while leaving skin smooth, balanced, and ready for further treatment.” —Sephora.com

Moisturizer: Om Aroma Créme Luxe 3

Heavy-Duty Moisturizer: Crème de la Mer
“By far the best out there for dry skin. It rejuvenates and nourishes my skin.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Mask: Astara Bio Genics Nourishing Vitamin Mask
“Felt moist and didn’t tighten my skin.” —Carol Calacci, Managing Editor

Serum: RéVive Fluid Superbe
“Worth every penny! My skin has not peeled once since using this.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Redness Reducing Moisturizer: Murad Redness Therapy—Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum
“Red face no more! Within 24 hours, I was able to see a noticeable difference. It’s soothing and therapeutic.” —Kelly M., Esthetician

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Acne Treatment System (cleanser, toner, treatment cream/lotion): SensiClear
“I can’t profess my love for SensiClear enough! It is by far the most amazing line I’ve ever put on my face! Not only did this product dry pimples on the very FIRST day of use, but it has kept my skin flawless. The compliments haven’t stopped pouring in. This is a MUST for anyone who has mild to severe acne. It’s a miracle in a bottle...well three tubes.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Anti-Aging Moisturizer: Om Aroma Luxe 1
“I’m addicted! Light moisturizer with antioxidants and vitamins to boot!” —Carmen Star, Dancer

Moisturizer with SPF: Azur SPF 40 Face & Body
“Light and gives great coverage!” —Kathleen Tisdale, Personal Shopper

Mask: Tozzi Let’s Face It Mint Clay Mask (editor’s pick)
“AMAZING! It didn’t burn, tighten or irritate my skin like most masks. My skin looked healthy and refreshed.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Spot Treatment: Dermae Skin Lighten
“The dark spots on my face have faded drastically! Love this!” —Amorette Henry, Concierge Business Owner

All Skin Types
Facial Wipes: Amora Pacifica
“This takes off every trace of makeup! Whether it’s waterproof mascara or longwear lipstick, this will take it off in one swoop!” —Christine Philip, Desginer

De-puffing eye treatments: Blue Copper 5

Runner-up: Skin Doctors Cosmeceuticals Eyetuck

At home microdermabrasions: Origins Modern Friction (editor’s pick)
Gentle for even the most sensitive skin.

Body (washes, lotions, exfoliators and treatments)

Body Wash: Diana B Maple Sugar Lyche Nut Bath Gel
“When I test a body wash in the middle of Chicago's winter and your skin winds up feeling moisturized and silky, and as if you could almost forego body lotion, I take note! It also has a nice clean fragrance. Diana B Maple Sugar Lyche Nut Bath Gel goes to the top of my list!” —Carol Calacci, Managing Editor

Runner-Up: Olay Body Wash plus Lotion Ribbons (editor’s pick)
“I religiously apply lotion after each shower, but I’ve forgotten on several occasions to apply lotion after using this body wash. My skin feels soft and moisturized every time!” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Body Scrub: Carey & Co Ingredients
“I LOVE IT!!! I would recommend to everyone!!! After using it softened my skin. The more I used it the softer my skin became. I almost cried when I ran out!” —Amorette Henry, Concierge Business Owner

Runner-up: Thom Flemming
“At first, it’s lemon zest smell was a little strong and a little too citrus-y, but after using it one morning, I realized it was the perfect thing to wake me up and get me ready for my day. The scrub has the perfect amount of scrub – not too intense, yet left my skin silky smooth. The product contains Dead Sea salt, which you know is good stuff.” —Andra Naylor, Fashion Editor

Overall Body Lotion: Fresh FarmHouse Sweet Cream Body Milk
“I feel in love with this lotion as soon as it hit my hand. The smell is sweet and inviting. It comes in an amazing corked glass cruet which looks cool on my vanity!” —Jessica Sanford, Artist

Hand Cream: Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv
“Instant soothing aid to my dry cracked hands! Not greasy yet moisturized and left a silky coat.” —Carol Calacci, Managing Editor

Anti Cellulite/Firming Treatment: Cellulite Smoother
“I have to say I was a little skeptical about this product when I first laid eyes on it—a contraption that attach to my vacuum to aid in ridding stubborn cellulite? I had considered getting expensive endermologie treatments, but figured I’d give this a shot. I was amazed when it worked! This product is a miracle! There was a noticeable difference in the appearance of cellulite after only a month of use. It’s now been two months and it keeps getting better!” —P. Henry, Caterer

Slimming/Contouring Treatment: PRESCRIBEDsolutions Body of Knowledge Slimming and Contouring Cream (editor’s pick)
“LOVE this stuff! What can I say? It works! This will be a staple of mine!” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Heavy Duty Body Cream: Eucerin
“I suffer from mild eczema and this is the only moisturizer that gives me enough moisture during the colder months.” —Anna Canton, Student

Stretch Mark Cream: StriVectin
“My body has gone through the wringer after having three children. Needless to say I’ve had a few stretch marks on my stomach. I’m amazed at the results! My stretch marks have been gradually fading — I’m so excited!” —Helen Peterson, Professional Mom

Foot Cream: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Foot Magic
“This products does what it says on the tube —it moisturizes, softens, smooths tough rough skin. It smells great. It’s great to use at night. During the day it is too rich, creamy and slippery in my shoes. The best time was at night with socks on so that the richness is absorbed into the skin. In the morning, my feet smell great and feel cool and smooth.” —Simona Kogan, Celebrity Style Editor

Foot Scrub: FarmHouse Fresh Sweet Cream Foot Scrub

Shimmer Lotion: Skin Milk Soft Shimmer Body Lotion

Sunscreen (lightweight): Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55

Heavy Duty Sunscreen: Aveeno Active Naturals Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion SPF 55
“I liked the moist feel on my skin. Didn’t feel grainy like high spf products often do, and has a nice citrusy summer fragrance.” —Carol Calacci, Managing Editor

Self Tanner for face: Estée Lauder Face Towelettes
“What a perfect invention! I don’t have to worry about getting a messy cream everywhere or missing areas on my face with these. I get even, consistent coverage that doesn’t come out orangey.” —Jennifer Humphrey, Interior Designer

Self Tanner for Body: Solerra Sunless Tanning Mitt & Sunless Tanning Lotion
“The color is amazing. It's the only product I've tried that actually looks like a real suntan. The mitts provide even coverage and the lotion is great for in-between maintenance. I will never use anything else!” —Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-in-Chief

Hair Removal: No! No!
“This is a God-sent! I’ve been paying for expensive laser hair removal for about two years now. It’s a pain (sometimes literally) to get to the appointments, numb your treated area at least an hour in advance and deal with the possible side effect of burning. I don’t have to worry about that with the No! No! It does practically the same thing but in the comforts of my own home without the inconvenience, pain and price of going to the spa.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

New Body Care Line: Sonya Dakar Body
“I couldn’t stop touching my skin after using this set. The scents were invigorating and my skin felt soft supple and hydrated.” —Simone Hemmings, Stylist

Nails

Nail Polish: OPI Nic’s Sticks
“You have to love OPI Nic’s Sticks. Genius! Great for on the fly nail polish needs and instant touch-ups. Also, the polish goes on well. A little thin, but not gloppy. I also appreciate that it dries in a minute!” —Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-in-Chief

Cuticle Moisturizer: OPI Avoplex Cuticle Oil To Go
“I take this everywhere in order to revive my dry cuticles.” —Simone Hemmings, Stylist

Nail Strengthener: Nailtiques Formula No. 2
“My nails consistently break. I’ve tried several products in the past and it’s been to no avail. This is the first product that has truly done everything it said it would.” —Jasmine Thomas, Sales Associate

Top Coat: Barielle Ultra Speed Dry Manicure Extender (editor’s pick)
“I’ve used several top coats in my day, but nothing compares to this. This does everything it says it’s going to and then some! My nail polish stays intact for a week and the shine looks like I’ve just gotten my nails done professionally.” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Runner-up: Seche
“I have always loved Seche Top Coat. It’s the best!” —Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-in-Chief

Callus Remover: Artemis Woman Heel Smoother
“This has won two years in a row for a reason . . . it’s the best!! The Artemis Woman Heel Smoother works better than any product used in a professional spa or salon. Feet are smooth and soft. I follow it up with the Topaz Foot Butter for amazing feet!” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

Runner-up: PedEgg
“This was a close call between the Artemis Woman and the PedEgg, but I have to give credit where credits due! The PedEgg smooths feet without having to witness the disgusting dead skin falling to the floor. It has a catcher that all the shaving fall into—genius!” —Natayle Henry, Beauty Editor

SHOPPING GUIDE
Skincare (Face)
Normal Skin
Skincare three-step system: Om Aroma Luxe Face Collection (Champagne, Caviar & Truffles) $215
Scrubs: Vivité Daily Exfoliating Facial Cleanser
Moisturizer with SPF: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 - Available at drugstores nationwide.
Night Cream: Om Aroma & Co. $95
Mask: (editor’s pick) Exuviance by Neo Strata Rejuvenating Treatment Masque $17.50
Anti-Wrinkle Treatment: VIVITÉ
Anti-Aging: Prévage
Dry, Sensitive Skin
Cleanser: (editor’s pick) Shiseido Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam $28
Moisturizer: Om Aroma Créme Luxe 3 $95
Heavy-Duty Moisturizer: Crème de la Mer $125/1 oz.
Mask: Astara Bio Genics Nourishing Vitamin Mask $17.50
Serum: RéVive Fluid Superbe $400
Redness Reducing Moisturizer: Murad Redness Therapy—Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum $49.50
Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Acne Treatment System (cleanser, toner, treatment cream/lotion): SensiClear $24.40
Anti-Aging Moisturizer: Om Aroma Luxe 1 $95
Moisturizer with SPF: Azur SPF 40 Face & Body $27/4 oz.
Mask: (editor’s pick) Tozzi Let’s Face It Mint Clay Mask $29
Spot Treatment: Dermae Skin Lighten $24.95
All Skin Types
Facial Wipes: Amora Pacifica $35
De-puffing Eye Treatments: Blue Copper 5 $75
De-puffing Eye Treatments Runner-up: Skin Doctors Cosmeceuticals Eyetuck $59.95
At Home Microdermabrasions: (editor’s pick) Origins Modern Friction $59.95
Body (washes, lotions, exfoliators and treatments)
Body Wash: Diana B Maple Sugar Lychee Nut Bath Gel $30
Body Wash Runner-Up: (editor’s pick) Olay Body Wash plus Lotion Ribbons $4.99
Body Scrub: Carey & Co Ingredients $40
Body Scrub Runner-up: Thom Flemming $28
Overall Body Lotion: Fresh FarmHouse Sweet Cream Body Milk $26
Hand Cream: Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv $45
Anti Cellulite/Firming Treatment: Cellulite Smoother $149.99
Slimming/Contouring Treatment: (editor’s pick) PRESCRIBEDsolutions Body of Knowledge Slimming and Contouring Cream $135
Heavy Duty Body Cream: Eucerin $12.99 – Available at select drugstores nationwide.
Stretch Mark Cream: StriVectin $135
Foot Cream: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Foot Magic $6.60
Sunscreen (lightweight): Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55 $8.99
Foot Scrub: FarmHouse Fresh Sweet Cream Foot Scrub $26
Heavy Duty Sunscreen: Aveeno Active Naturals Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion SPF 55 $8.99
Self Tanner for Face: Estée Lauder Face Towelettes $23
Self Tanner for Body: Solerra Sunless Tanning Mitt & Sunless Tanning Lotion $79.84 for 4 month supply
Hair Removal: No! No! $250
New Body Care Line: Sonya Dakar Body $266 for entire collection (5 pieces)
Nails
Nail Polish: OPI Nic’s Stick $6.99
Cuticle Moisturizer: OPI Avoplex Cuticle Oil To Go
Nail Strengthener: Nailtiques Formula No. 2 $17.50/ .5 oz
Top Coat: (editor’s pick) Barielle Ultra Speed Dry Manicure Extender $16
Top Coat Runner-up: Seche
Callus Remover: Artemis Woman Heel Smoother $29.99
Callus Remover Runner-up: PedEgg $10

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