Cue the cliché but did May fly by or what? Filled with travel, rose all day dates alfresco and lots of self-care, last month introduced a handful of impressive skin treats to my summer routine. Among the things I dread this time of year: waking up with puffy eyes, the return of a T-zone by noon, and stressing over whether something is TSA approved or not. Below is a quick round up of what kept my glow going all May long!
La Bella Figura The Clean Slate
So decadent its proper name is actually Cleansing Concentrate, this solid balm formula is the epitome of eco-luxe. The artisanal blend of plant oils and extracts (Cupuacu, Camellia, Grape, Coriander, and Orange Blossom, among others) works on wet or dry skin and requires no cloth. Lightly foaming after contact with water, it removes every trace of excess oil, makeup, and pollutants. Take your time massaging it in and embrace the texture and scent for an indulgent cleansing ritual. Be forewarned: the jar is small. Because quality over quantity. $60 follain.com
Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum EX
It took a one-on-one consult with a brand specialist to learn how to apply this cult classic properly and it has been a total game changer. The unique botanical brew of over 3,000 Korean herbs is designed to balance the skin, replenish hydration levels, and boost every single formula that follows. After you cleanse and exfoliate, apply three pumps of First Care Activating Serum to the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, inhale the gorgeous aroma, and press into skin. I was skeptical at first, but my complexion has never looked better. $84 (60ml) beautylish.com
Jurlique Rose Moisture Plus Moisturizing Lotion
Every summer, my combination skin longs for the ideal, medium weight moisturizer. The latest Jurlique launch is a dream come true. Packed with nourishing, soothing, and skin protecting ingredients (Rose, Rose Hip Oil, Turmeric Extract), the lotion comforts and hydrates for hours. Simple but not basic, it is versatile enough to work day and night as it absorbs beautifully without even a hint of shine. I rarely go through a face lotion this quickly, but I also can’t get enough of the rose fragrance. (all natural, by the way!) $44 (50ml) jurlique.com
Borghese Restorative Eye Sheet Mask
Who would think the Roman mud mask authority would also produce amazing eye masks in their luxurious line-up? Spoiler alert: these are actually Made in Korea. Larger than most, the hydrogel patches are soaked to perfection, sit perfectly under the eyes without sliding down your face, and take you from exhausted to awake in 15 minutes. Loaded with Acai, Avocado, Arnica, Caffeine, and Arnica Flower Extract as well as uber-hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, they rival the benefits any morning cup of coffee delivers after a rough night out. I never want to run out. $32 (6 pairs) neimanmarcus.com
PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45
This everyday sunscreen that won’t leave you looking ghastly pale worked overtime and outdid itself during both the Arizona heat and New York City humidity this past month. A combination of physical (9.0% Zinc Oxide) and chemical (7.5% Octinoxate) filters, the lightweight formula also features Caffeine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamin E, and a touch of Lactic Acid. Think of it as a hydrating, energizing, antioxidant loaded moisturizer that also delivers superb UV protection. Major props for the sheer application and natural finish. $44 (60ml) dermstore.com
