CONTEXT – Modern, Unisex, Skincare Staples

Maximizing the opportunities ushered in by the selfie phenomena, the beauty industry has created some influential hashtags across social media. Look up #TopShelfie or #bblogger on Instagram and prepare yourself for some serious product envy. Launched earlier this Fall, CONTEXT blends into the digital beauty landscape with a complete line up of skincare products, available exclusively via the brand’s e-commerce platform. Or, how to launch a range of modern staples.

Yours truly lucked out with a full on set of CONTEXT skincare (thankyouverymuch) but before sharing my thoughts after a month of playing around, here’s the 411 on this clever newcomer.

• Created by David Arbuthnot, who has held some of the biggest jobs in fashion and beauty (think Gant, Dior, Gucci, DKNY, and CK).
• Totally unisex.
• Fueled by natural botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins, and proteins.
• Aims to hydrate, smooth, and nourish.
• Free of synthetic fragrance, parabens, sulfates, and pthalates.
• Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types.
• NY based, USA made.
• Channeling affordable luxury, nothing is priced over $45.

Creamy, velvety, and non-foaming, the Daily Facial Cleanser does an excellent job removing dirt, makeup, and excess oil while keeping the skin hydrated. Recommended for use twice daily, it falls somewhere between gentle and deep cleansing, softens immediately after rinsing, and features an appealing fresh scent. Infused with a blend of skin loving oils (Jojoba, Avocado, Cucumber, and Chamomile) and plant extracts (Rosehip and Lemon), it protects and repairs with Vitamins A and E. $30 (4 oz.)

Perfect for those with oilier or congested complexions, the Micro-Derm Regenerator is a lightweight, face wash exfoliator hybrid. Mild yet effective, it uses Aluminum Oxide Crystals to remove cell buildup for a radiant, more even tone. Since I tend to reach for more potent formulas, I apply this CONTEXT solution on dry skin to boost its properties. Works like a charm. Regenerating and conditioning, it includes Macadamia, Sunflower, and Jojoba Oils as well as Vitamins A, C and E. $35 (4 oz.)

My absolute favorite, Hydrating Toner, is a multi-tasking essence step that refreshes, brightens, and refines pores after you cleanse. Loaded with tightening Witch Hazel, firming Vitamin C, Green Tea, Algae, and Japanese Knotweed Extracts, it highlights natural Tangerine and Orange Peel Oil to achieve a sparkling, zesty citrus fragrance. Alcohol free, this antioxidant rich essence preps the skin to properly absorb the serums and moisturizer that follow. $35 (6 oz.)

Because nothing is more important than protection against the sun in the race against aging, CONTEXT offers two versions of their Daily Moisturizer SPF 15: Oil Free (for combination/oily) and Intensive (for normal/dry). With a faint citrus note, the Intensive formula is enriched with soothing Aloe, moisture binding Glycerin, healing Allantoin and nourishing Marigold Extract. The Oil-Free option nourishes with Manuka Honey and Shea Butter with anti-aging perks of Green Tea Extracts and Vitamins A, C, and E. A dash of Cinnamon Extract adds a subtle mattifying effect and keeps oil production at bay. These double duty facial moisturizers deliver impressive nutrients while guarding against sun damage with broad spectrum SPF. $40 each (1.75 oz.)

Equal parts anti-aging treatment and superb hydrator, the Vitamin C All Day Eye Cream delivers remarkable results for such a lightweight. Its consistency borders on a serum, it feels cooling upon application and firms, brightens, and plumps up the delicate area around the eye something fierce. Packed with Angelica, Echinacea, Licorice, and Grape Seed Extracts, Vitamins C and E, this multi-tasking compound is especially great on those rough mornings after very little sleep. Travel friendly, the upright tube fits seamlessly into your carry on and will erase signs of fatigue or jet lag this holiday season. $35 (.5 oz.)

As a night cream connoisseur, I am saving the best for last with the richest CONTEXT formula in the range. With a unique texture that combines cream, gel, and balm properties, the Restorative Night Cream glides on and absorbs beautifully to regenerate our complexions while we sleep. Its superstar ingredient deck includes Hydrolyzed Collagen and Elastin, Squalane, Aloe Extract, and Vitamins A, C, and E to to visibly tone, smooth, and strengthen the skin by morning. It’s my go-to after using a peel or an acid serum. $45 (1.7 oz.)

Available at contextskin.com – FREE shipping on ALL orders and for a limited time, take 15% off the entire purchase with code NEW.