I am in my early 40s and have been using Clinique products for years. It started with their toner, then their moisturizing cream, and so on. I also am a huge fan of their ad campaigns as they normally feature JUST their products, which I find refreshing among so much stimuli in many cosmetic and skincare ad campaigns. I also have sensitive skin and many years ago Clinique stood out to me as being the only hypoallergenic brand when I used to shop at Macy’s Herald Square.

Clinique introduced the Even Better franchise back in 2008 to address hyperpigmentation for women of all skin tones, and years later the need for these types of products has only grown.

Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 20 was designed to feature a multi-prong approach to address the overall uneven skin tone of all ethnicities. It is meant to prevent and reduce the appearance of excess pigments on the skin, deter new spots from forming, break-up existing dark spots into less visible particles, leave the skin looking more evenly toned and also take away and remove melanin through exfoliation. This one product has all these components within: that spells PRACTICALITY to me.

The fact that there is also SPF 20 helps to protect the skin’s barrier against the environment including the harmful UVA and UVB rays. To understand why this works, I will break down the benefits of each ingredient:

- Seaweed derived Laminaria Saccharina Extract to help regulate excess oil production

- Silica and Trimenthylol Hexyliactone Crosspolymers leave the skin velvety smooth

- Ellagic Acid and Vitamin C help reduce the appearance of dark spots

- Pyrus Malus (Apple) Extract and Cucumis (Cucumber) Extract soothe irritated skin

- Advanced Yeast Blend provides brightening results

- Sucrose/Trehalose help attract and maintain moisture levels in the skin.

I liked the small amount needed from the pump to apply over my entire face and will have to give this product at least four weeks to formulate a true opinion of its effectiveness on my dark spots; I have quite a few from the days of sun bathing (with baby oil and reflectors, yikes!) and I truly hope this product breaks them down and makes them less noticeable. Only time will tell.

Launching in April, it will be available at Clinique counters nationwide and www.clinique.com as well for $44.50.

Nicole Gordon Levine

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Using her knowledge of Native American botanicals that benefit the skin, Sunday plans to help make her client’s skin appear ageless. Her Modern Skincare line with NV-5 Ageless Complex is a proprietary blend of 5 Native American botanicals. What are they you ask? Well, I wanted to know too….

The NV-5 Ageless Complex is comprised of Blue Agave, Biofermented Aloe and Yeast Extract, Lady’s Slipper Orchid, Prickly Pear Cactus and Queen of the Night Cactus. This formula was designed to fight cellular inflammation and detoxify the skin for long lasting radiance. It’s considered “Green Technology” which means a union of botanicals and biotechnology. The brand firmly believes that ideal skincare is based on this perfect union.

The three products I samples are listed below and the outer packaging is clean, crisp and easy to read with full explanations of what the product inside are as well as precise direction for use. The “Good Genes” outer packaging reminded me of Rachel Zoe’s exude lipstick. It consists of an ecru, two piece gift box with a full color label on the outside. It was appealing to my “marketing eye”. Same goes for “Juno” Transformative Body Lipid Serum and “Skin Adrenaline” Anti-Aging Concentrate.

JUNO:

A rare, dry oil absolute that gives skin an obsession-worthy glow. A patent-pending blend of lightweight, fast absorbing oils extremely high in natural retinol, Vitamin C, Essential Amino Acids, Omega-3, 6, & 9, UV shields, and natural Anti-Inflammatory agents for luminous skin. Anti-Aging, anti-oxidant.

This dry oil formula spreads easily and is fast absorbing. I did pick up on a scent yet I am uncertain of what it is exactly. I don’t mind it though as sometimes I am sensitive to perfumes in skincare products.

$125.00 at Barney’s or by visiting either www.barneys.com or  www.sundayriley.com

GOOD GENES: 
Everyone wants the unmistakable look of having “good genes”. This treatment is formulated with key ingredients which will plump fine lines, reveal brighter, newer skin, and improve circulation, offering a smooth, vibrant complexion. Long term use will restore damaged skin, reduce hyper pigmentation and acne scars, reduce the depth and number of lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, & increase epidermal firmness and thickness.

Great to use 5 days in a row as an intensive radiance treatment or anytime you want to impress. Can be applied daily for reviving skin which is damaged by excessive UV exposure, aging, acne scars, pollution, lifestyle. I found it to add a touch of glow to my skin and started to see a difference in the texture of my skin after day three of use. My skin appeared to be more vibrant and smooth looking. Long term use is intended to reduce hyper-pigmentation, scars, the depth of number of fine lines, even out skin tome and increase your skin’s firmness and thickness.

$ 105.00 at Barneys or by visiting either www.barneys.com or www.sundayriley.com

SKIN ADRENALINE:

Instant Radiance Booster. Layers perfectly under Bionic, Cashmere SPF or Good Genes. Maximum Concentrations of Key Actives which: Rejuvenate Lackluster and Damaged Skin, Build Youthful Collagen, Accelerate Healthy Skin Growth, & Provide Skin Nutrition for Regeneration. Provides essential lipids. Hydrating, Anti-Pollution, Anti-Oxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Aging.

Leaves Skin Smooth and Glowing, Instantly. Moisturizes without petrochemicals. Can be used on all skin types as a serum or as a light moisturizer during humid months or if you have oily skin…you can use it year round. It’s lightweight and a little goes a long way. Once again, this is suitable for even oily skin and is intended to both prevent and reverse your skin’s aging process.

$ 185.00 at Barneys or by visiting either www.barneys.com or www.sundayriley.com

I can say I am officially addicted to Sunday Riley’s products and a little goes a long way if you are put off by the prices of these products. Sunday Riley avoids formulas with petrochemicals such as mineral oil, petrolatum, etc. and opts for more expensive and natural components. I sampled three, yet there is also Bionic (Anti-Aging Cream for $ 225.00), Cashmere spf 30 (Sun Defense for $ 125.00), Start Over (Active Eye Cream for $ 85.00), Disrobe ( Beyond Body Lotion for $ 65.00) and Liquid Diet (Water Weight Reducing Body Treatment for $ 105.00).

When a beauty lover such as myself cannot wait to run home to take off all of my make up so I can apply Sunday Riley’s products…you know this skincare line must be special!  So tell us, will you be looking to pick up some Sunday Riley products?  Post a comment below to let us know.

- Nicole Gordon Levine

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BeautyStat:  What is eczema?

Dr. Adam Geyer:  Eczema is a general term that describes inflamed skin, commonly used as a synonym for dermatitis.  There are, however, many causes and forms of eczema. They are all linked by the symptoms that are observed ie skin that is itchy, dry, cracked, and inflamed.

The most common forms of eczema are:

-   atopic eczema – a form that commonly start in childhood, has a genetic component, and is more frequently seen in individuals with asthma and hay fever.

-   contact eczema (contact dermatitis)- this comes in 2 forms:

1) irritant eczema  (resulting from exposure to products and environmental conditions that break down the skin barrier and cause irritation)

2) allergic eczema (resulting from contact with a substance that causes a true skin allergy in susceptible individuals – i.e. poison ivy, latex)

-   xerotic eczema – a form related to dryness of the skin, worse in winter and in sites prone to dryness, such as the lower legs, forearms/hands, and the torso.  This form is more common as we age.

BeautyStat:  What is the single most important thing I can do to make eczema better?

Dr. Adam Geyer:  The key to treating eczema, regardless of the type is to work to restore the skin barrier.  Moisturizing helps not only to hydrate the skin and prevent water loss, but also to re-establish the skin’s defense system to prevent irritants and allergens from entering the skin to create further itching and inflammation. It cannot be stated strongly enough that the most important step in treating eczema is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

BeautyStat:  How do I decide what type of product to use?

Dr. Adam Geyer:  Moisturizer selection should be adjusted according to environmental conditions and the severity of eczema.  In general, the thicker the product the better.  Lotions tend to have a higher water and may not be as emollient. Creams tend to have more of an occlusive effect – that means that not only do they add moisture to the skin, but they prevent water from evaporating and they lock-in moisture.

BeautyStat:  When is the best time to apply these products?

Dr. Adam Geyer:  Moisturizers are most effective when they are applied after a shower or bath- make sure to pat the skin dry, don’t rub it vigorously.  Leave a little bit of water on the skin and apply the product liberally, from the neck down.  A separate facial moisturizer should also be applied as the thicker products designed for the body can often clog facial pores.

BeautyStat:  What are some eczema treatment tips?

Dr. Adam Geyer: Take shorter, more temperate showers and avoid standing in the direct stream of hot water for an extended period of time as it can significantly dry your skin… even though it can initially feel good!

Get a humidifier for the bedroom at night – increasing the ambient humidity, especially during winter, can help prevent over-drying of the skin.

Pamper yourself !  It is not just folklore that stress makes eczema worse.  Many studies have confirmed the negative impact that stress can have on the skin. If someone is prone to eczema, stress can have a major impact.  Conversely, stress reduction measures have been shown to positively impact the severity of eczema.

Avoid fragrance when your skin is inflamed.  Not only could the fragrance be the potential culprit (if allergic) but you are more likely to develop future allergies to that fragrance if applied repeatedely to inflamed and cracked skin.

Finally, in terms of cleanser, make sure to use a mild, gentle cleanser and avoid over-washing.  Detergents and soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils. This wears down the skin barrier and can make eczema worse.  I am not saying don’t use a cleanser in areas that need it (groin and armpits) but make sure to minimize the amount applied, the duration of washing, and choose a hydrating, mild cleanser.

BeautyStat:  What are some product recommendations?

Dr. Adam Geyer:  Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is a favorite of mine for the body.

CeraVe Cream and cleanser are both ceramide rich products that are helpful in restoring the skin barrier and food for all skin types.

BeautyStat:  When do I know if I need to see a dermatologist?

If you have tried all of the above measures and you have skin that is persistently red, itchy, dry, or inflamed, it is a good idea to make an appointment to see a dermatologist.  In addition to reviewing your products to make sure you are using a regimen appropriate for your skin, they can decide whether you need a prescription medication (like a topical steroid), and can review your basic skin care habits to make sure that you are doing everything you can to improve your skin barrier function and let your skin heal.  Unfortunately, there is no true “cure” for eczema so it is important to realize that a good approach to skin care, more than any individual prescription or topical product, is the key to keeping your skin healthy and eczema free.

- BeautyStat editorial staff 

Dr. Adam Geyer is a board certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology. He has served as an advisor to numerous skincare companies, including Hydroderm, EmerginC, and Kiehl’s. See more info on Dr. Geyer here: AdamGeyerMD.com

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There have been several skincare product launches recently that work to tackle this problem including Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skin Tone Illuminator, and Elizabeth Arden Prevage Clarity Skin Tone Corrector. But when I heard about the new Rx For Brown Skin line, I felt I should take a closer look.

Rx For Brown Skin is as line of skincare products that address the needs of women with brown skin. Their philosophy is that brown skin is special and requires a customized care solution. They consider brown skin to range from skin tones as fair as Jennifer Lopez or Lucy Lui to as deep as Eve or Queen Latifa.  When we asked the brand founder, Dr. Susan Taylor, what the real difference is between her line and other mainstream lines on the market, her reply was that “it’s developed and tested only on women with brown skin”. So given that I’m a woman with brown skin, I was ready to test drive these products.

I began using 2 of the products in the line:  the Rx For Brown Skin Gentle Cleanser and the Naturally Flawless Advanced Botanical Brightener.

The Gentle Cleanser contains their special Bright Skin Complex which is a blend of – A blend of Soy, Pomegranate and Hyaluronic Acid. Soy to specifically target uneven skin tone. Pomegranate is a powerful antioxidant to help protect against free radicals. And, Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate skin for a softer, smoother texture as well as Green Tea to protect from environmental toxins.

I love the fact that it cleans my skin but doesn’t over-dry my skin like others that I’ve tried.  The only down side is that it did not generate a lot of lather.

Naturally Flawless Advanced Botanical Brightener claims to brighten your overall compexion, and to fade the discoloration of scars, dark spots, etc. After using it for about 4 weeks, I’m began to see some improvement.

Before Using Rx For Brown Skin

I had some acne scars on my chin before I started using the product.  And after a few weeks, I did see some fading of them.

After Using Rx For Brown Skin For A Few Weeks

Overall, I liked both products and look forward to continue using them to see if they can visibly diminish my dark spots …. for good!

The Gentle Cleanser retails for $26.95.  And the Botanical Brightener retails for $34.95. And both can be purchased on www.RxForBrownSkin.com.

So tell us, would you give the Rx For Brown skin line a try?  Post a comment below to let us know.

- Jessica Washington

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Repechage is a skincare company that specializes in harnessing the nutrients and nourishing properties of seaweed and bottling them in creams and gels that are fit for all skin types.  We did a video interview with the company founder and their cosmetic chemist here.

And just in time for the Fall/Winter season, they just launched a new facial mask.  The Repechage Biolight Brightening Miracle mask contains EcoCert Seaweeds, Willow Bark, Goto Kola, and Licorice extracts, as well as glycolic and Kojic acid designed to “target discoloration and reveal a glow that lasts.”

I was a little wary of the pale green color; I have used green masks before and they are too drying for my skin. But this had a light, fresh sent—think of a meadow on a sunny, summer day—and so I overcame my apprehension. I followed the directions and applied a thin coat (avoiding the delicate under-eye area) after I had cleansed my face. Unlike some other masks, which crackle when they dry, this one seemed to be absorbed by my skin; after ten or so minutes, I hardly saw it at all.  I washed it off and then used my regular moisturizer.  Skin felt and looked fine.  But the real surprise was in the morning. I awoke looking so pink, fresh and invigorated! Usually I am quite pale in the morning.  So this was a pleasant change.

For the record, I did not notice any difference in terms of the discoloration that had been promised.  But the “glow” was right on target and I loved the result. I plan to use this product at least once a week from now on.

This product retails for $45.00 for a 2.0oz tube. Visit www.repechage.com or call 1.800.248.SKIN(7546) for more information or to purchase.

- Yona McDonough

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We here at BeautyStat have promised to give you the chance to win the hottest new beauty products to hit the market, and we are aiming to please. So without further adieu, below are the winners of last week’s giveaways (winners chosen by random number generator).

And the winner of the (Review & Giveaway) L’Oreal Paris Launches Hydra-Nutrition Golden Balm Line for Mature, Thinning Skin is…..Lanie.  We already contacted you to let you know that you won.  Congratulations!

And the winner of the Samy’s Fat Hair ‘O’ Calories Line Delivers Fuller Hair with Big Volume: Brand Ambassador Review and GIVEAWAY (Sponsored)  is……Patricia N.  We already contacted you to let you know that you won.  Congratulations!

And the winner of the (Giveaway) The Hour is Everything: Caudalie Fleur de Vigne Fresh Fragrances

is … Angela A.  We already contacted you to let you know that you won. Congratulations!

And you must check out the winners of the our First Nail Contest (these nail designs are FAB)…. HERE.

If you did not win, don’t worry, there are more exciting giveaways and contests below:

Samy’s Twisted Styling Line Delivers Shiny, Controlled Locks For A Range of Hair Types: Brand Ambassador Review and GIVEAWAY (Sponsored)

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I’m usually skeptical of multi-purpose cleansing products (i.e., shampoo-and-conditioner-in-one, body and hair wash, etc.), but gave it a go. Its pleasant scent got the first points, making me think of tranquil ocean waters. It lathers nicely and leaves both face and body skin feeling gently cleansed. I did notice that in drier, cooler weather, it felt like it dried my combination/oily skin out. However, followed up by applications of sebamed’s Moisturizing Cream on my face and Moisturizing Body Lotion everywhere else, balance was restored. The scented moisturizers are also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, with vitamin E and chamomile extract and allantoin respectively.

I would recommend the Liquid Face & Body Wash alone for use in the warmer months since it is a little drying in cooler temperatures. I found that in the heat and humidity of summer, when my face’s oiliness is in overdrive, it is more effective for me and can be used by itself. A nice bonus of its multitasking properties is that it’s good for travel—especially to balmy tropical destinations—with one less product to pack. For the drier fall and winter months, using the moisturizers with the wash is a must.

- Michelle Kuo

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Hey Beauties!  Check out what some of our resident vloggers and BeautyStat members like yourself think about some of the latest products and trends at www.youtube.com/beautystat!

Tried out something yoursef recently and want to share?  Send us the video with wetransfer.com (free and easy!) to videoreviewer@beautystat.com and maybe we’ll post your video up there too!

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So when we received a sample of the new Ahava exfoliator, we gave it to our expert evaluator, Deanna to give it a test drive.

I was more than excited to try Ahava Dead Sea Laboratories Mud Exfoliator for all skin types.  This product prides itself on the fact that its ingredients come from the actual Dead Sea also known as the Salt Sea.  You know the body of water that is known for having healing effects on the body as well as the skin.  My feeling was if I could not go to the sea, than bring the sea to me.

I started using the product about 2 weeks ago and I was definitely happy with the texture.  I was using another exfoliator that definitely was tougher on my skin.  This had the perfect mixture of cream and salt to make my skin feel thoroughly refreshed after washing with it.    It was not abrasive at all and my skin reacted great to it.

It was very easy to get the product out.  It was a screw off top with a small hole to squeeze the product through.    Also the size was 100ml 3.4 fl. oz.  I thought this was a great amount.  Small enough to feel like it was a special product, but definitely enough to use it for at least a few months.

The smell was very fresh and mild.  I definitely feel it improved the look and radiance of my skin.

I would recommend the product.

Grade: B+

- by Deanna Perl

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How many of us have been guilty (yes, I do it too) of checking your email in the middle of the night? I’m in the same camp. But could you be doing harm to your skin and eyes, possibly causing wrinkles from squinting at a tiny screen or frowning over alarming news?

Actresses in the 1960s and 1970s, like Ms. Taylor, certainly didn’t text, tweet and frown the way the Millennials do

Smartphone-related wrinkles are the latest condition that doctors attribute to overuse of technology. Dr. Brian Glatt, a New Jersey board-certified plastic surgeon, is seeing more and more of what he calls “Blackberry Botox” patients. “Younger women are actually developing premature wrinkles from gazing at their iphones or blackberries all day,” he says.

Brian Glatt, MD

While we may not realize it, small lines can begin to form (like a furrowed brow) and frown lines along the mouth. So how can we prevent these early signs of aging?
Here are a few tips from the pros:
Take a small break:

Step away from that phone! Give your eyes a rest. Take time to relax your eyes a bit. It will help reduce eye strain and relax your facial muscles. The same is true if you stare at a computer screen all day.
Try turning the light on your screen a bit lower:

Too much light and contrast can cause you to narrow the eyes to take in the brightness. You’ll find the ability to adjust the screen in your “settings” feature.

Try enlarging that text:

If you find yourself struggling to read the small text on your Smartphone and start holding it so close you wrinkle your nose to try to read it, enlarge the text by simply going to your settings and changing the text size. The zoom function can be a fantastic thing .use it to focus in on images on your device so you can see much more clearly and avoid pulling the inner eye.
Look after your eyes:

A simple thing like just relaxing and massaging around the eyes can make a big difference in preventing those lines that starts subtly but can get deeper and more pronounced. Not only will your face be serene looking, you will feel more serene and in a much better state to deal with any inbox disasters.

- Elaine Hamilton

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