Style Chicks

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric+ Weightless Foundation

March 3, 2023 ·

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric+ Weightless Foundation is a new player in the luxury foundation market. How does it stack up to the cult classic Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation?

What We Love

This formulation covers a multitude of sins, especially on video conference! It is buildable yet very lightweight.

BEST FEATURE: Armani Beauty’s Micro-fil technology and ultra-fine pigments give coverage without looking heavy on the skin. VERY thin layers get the job done.

Natural looking full coverage with a matte finish

Features

Matte Finish
There is an SPF 25 in this formulation
Lightweight formula with medium to full Coverage
Long-lasting, up to 24 hour wear
Full range of shades

The Experience

The foundation has enough coverage that I can skip concealer, plus it has an SPF.

I absolutely love the even, smooth coverage of this foundation. It blends flawlessly into skin with a very nice slip. There is a featherweight feel but the coverage is full yet natural. And extra dab under my nose and inner under eye and I needed no concealer.

I can find a shade that is an excellent match for my skin tone which is no small feat for my oddball coloring.

There are two things that disappoint:

My skin is not oily, but the color oxidized within a few hours.
It settled into fine lines quickly, despite my skin being well-hydrated and only using a sparing application. I refreshed with lightweight moisturizer dabbed on with a Beauty Blender, but I typically don’t have to maintain a product.

Final Thoughts

This is not a clean formulation from an ingredient perspective, and it doesn’t claim to be.

However, it is still worthy of mention because it gives the appearance of very little (if any) makeup on the skin. Even those who prefer clean beauty may wish to make an exception on occasion for a completely flawless finish that still looks natural.

This matte formulation however, seems best suited towards those with oily complexions.

My skin tends to be more dry, so I personally prefer the dewy finish of the original Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation to this newer matte formulation. Both formulations use the same Micro-fil technology and ultra-fine pigment.

But when you need a matte flawless finish with the look of no visible makeup, (think photo ops) Armani Beauty Power Fabric+ is hard to beat.

Where to Shop It

Find the Armani Beauty range at Sephora and Saks Fifth Avenue

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel

January 28, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Aloe Vera is well known in folk remedy. Research shows it has a powerful biochemistry^[1] supporting many skincare and hair care uses, including collagen synthesis. But not all Aloe Vera products are free of unwanted additives. We like Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel. It is a pure Aloe Vera leaf juice free of added coloring or fragrance. It is completely unscented.

Read about the benefits of Aloe Vera and our experience with Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel.

About Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel comes from the inner leaves of the Aloe Vera plant.

You may use Aloe Vera gel for minor burns, bug bites, sunburn and scrapes. Aloe Vera plants were a staple in many Grandma’s kitchens as a go-to fix for multiple skin problems.

Aloe Vera is also a versatile natural ingredient with both hair and skin benefits. It can be applied alone, or added to a DIY skin or hair treatment.

Why Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel is Special

NO UNNECESSARY ADDITIVES

We like Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel 100% Pure & Natural Gel because it is a pure Aloe Vera leaf juice that is free of added coloring or fragrance.

A lack of excess additives, coloring, fragrance or fillers greatly reduces the chance of skin irritation or reactions.^[2]

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has no added color or fragrance. It is clear and pure

UNSCENTED

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has ZERO scent. It smells like nothing.

For those of us who desire unscented products, it is difficult to find a pure Aloe Vera product without scent. Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel has no added fragrance. We detect none of the natural allium/onion scent found in fresh aloe vera gel straight from the leaf.

ENRICHED WITH VITAMIN E

This Aloe Vera formulation also contains Tocopheryl Acetate, a stable form of VITAMIN E used in skincare. Vitamin E is anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. It also softens damaged skin to make it pliable.

RESIDUE-FREE ABSORPTION

There is no sticky residue to the Aloe. It contains carbomer, a safe texturizer that enables product absorption. There is practically no dry-down time.

MADE IN THE USA

Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel is made in the USA.

It comes in a 2-ounce travel size (1, 3 or 6 pack) and a 32 ounce size bottle. We tried the travel size 3-pack.

Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe Vera can get things done! Use it as a shaving cream, treat razor burns and bumps, and as an all around moisturizer.

Aloe Vera Benefits for Skin

Aloe Vera is a base for many clean and natural skincare products, and for good reason.

Aloe Vera feeds the skin with essential nutrients and makes skin smooth, hydrated, and soft. This skin “food” heals, hydrates, and accelerates skin cell growth.

It provides nourishment to the skin as it contains:

Vitamins A, C, B, and E, (all anti-oxidants) folic acid, and choline
minerals like collagen III-enhancing copper
8 enzymes, including Bradykinase to reduce inflammation^[3]
Amino Acids and fatty acids to hydrate the skin without oil.

Aloe Vera has an enzyme that repairs skin cells. This helps soothe and heal:

minor burns
scrapes
sunburn and excess sun exposure^[4]
razor burn
dry, flaky skin

It provides anti-inflammatory^[5] and anti-bacterial properties.

Aloe Vera contributes to collagen regeneration which is helpful in wound healing. ^[6]

Aloe Vera Benefits for Hair

Research on Aloe Vera applications within hair care includes benefits for the scalp and the hair lengths.

SCALP BENEFITS

A healthy scalp means optimal hair growth.

Aloe Vera has an enzyme that repairs dead skin cells on the scalp to help hair grow strong. This helps treat or reduce scalp conditions impacting hair growth such as:

dandruff
dry scalp
seborrheic dermatitis^[7]
psoriasis^[8]

HAIR LENGTHS

The hair length and the ends lose moisture over time. Aloe Vera feeds the hair with essential nutrients and B5 and amino acids make hair smooth, hydrated, soft, and shiny!

TIP: Aloe Vera makes a great conditioner for eyebrows! Combine Aloe with a drop of Castor or Almond Oil and brush onto eyebrows with a spoolie!

The Eden Dews Experience

We like the convenient travel size bottle size and its’ easy to use dispenser top design to keep the product fresh.

Scent: None
Color: None, clear
Consistency: It is a lightweight texture
Dry-down: non-oily, absorbs well. It is not at all tacky even during dry-down.
Residue: No chalky residue, not sticky or tacky.

RESULTS

The feel on my skin is moist and hydrated skin, not the feel of product, very natural. Notably, unlike some aloe formulations, it does not sting or burn on my sensitive skin.

I love an unscented aloe vera formulation because it absorbs better than fresh aloe and smells better than aloe vera gel fresh from the leaf!

Where to Shop It

Find Eden Dews Aloe Vera Gel on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQSRDL8R

Lightweight, thin consistency is easy to spread with no stickiness

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Have any questions or comments about Eden Dews Aloe Vera?

Email us or comment below and we will do our best to answer them!

References

Davis, Robert H. Aloe vera: A scientific approach. Vantage Press, 1997.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, January 2019 pages 1-42
Atherton P. The essential Aloe vera: The actions and the evidence. 2nd ed 1997
Byeon SW, Pelley RP, Ullrich SE, Waller TA, Bucana CD, Strickland FM. Aloe barbadensis extracts reduce the production of interleukin-10 after exposure to ultraviolet radiation. J Invest Dermatol. 1998 May;110(5):811-7. doi: 10.1046/j.1523-1747.1998.00181.x.
Hutter JA, Salmon M, Stavinoha WB, Satsangi N, Williams RF, Streeper RT, et al. Anti-inflammatory C-glucosyl chromone from Aloe barbadensis. J Nat Prod. 1996;59:541–3.
Chithra P, Sajithlal GB, Chandrakasan G. Influence of Aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats. Mol Cell Biochem. 1998 Apr;181(1-2):71-6. doi: 10.1023/a:1006813510959. PMID: 9562243.
Vardy AD, Cohen AD, Tchetov T. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Aloe vera (A. barbadensis) emulsion in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. J Derm Treatment. 1999;10:7–11.
Syed TA, Ahmad SA, Holt AH, Ahmad SH, Afzal M. Management of psoriasis with Aloe vera extract in a hydrophilic cream: A placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Trop Med Int Health. 1996;1:505–9.

ABOUT THIS POST

Waterless Beauty: Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Cream

January 18, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Cream is a fast-absorbing, waterless eye serum packed with skin-restoring organic goodness to plump and treat the delicate eye area skin. It is a small bottle with a big impact because its’ waterless formulation affords maximum absorption of the actives.

*Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Serum*

Why Waterless Beauty

Waterless Beauty refers to when a skincare product formulation does not contain water.

Water is typically the first ingredient seen on product ingredient lists, sometimes comprising more than half of the product volume. Instead of water, Waterless Beauty uses oils, ferments, butters and oil-soluble active ingredients.

There are no unnecessary fillers such as water, silicone, and alcohol in any Kat Burki product.

The KB5 Complex

Kat Burki uses their patented KB5™ formula base instead of water. Instead of actives being diluted, the pure active ingredients work at full force with KB5™.

KB5 Complex is five cold-processed extract essences. Together they create the proprietary KB5 Complex, a trademarked signature blend that replaces the water in all Kat Burki formulas. This makes highly concentrated, pure, eco-conscious formulations. And they are also remarkably effective.

Lets take a closer look at this formulation:

Key Ingredients

KB5™ Complex is made with:

ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT (ARNICA)

Gota Kola Skincare Benefits — Centella Asiatica AKA Gota Kola improves skin elasticity for firmer skin

Arnica flower is a natural anti-inflammatory. It reduces puffiness without causing dryness or dehydration around the delicate eye skin. It also decreases bruising and inflammation. Arnica promotes healing and reduces swelling.

CALENDULA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT

Calendula flower promotes the regeneration of new tissue and soothes damaged skin.

CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT (GOTU KOLA)

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) improves elasticity and reduces sagging. It boosts antioxidant activity, strengthens the skin and increases blood circulation. [1]

CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA EXTRACT (CHAMOMILE)

Chamomile is an antioxidant with potent skin-soothing action. [2] It contains Terpenoids, bisabolol and chamazulene. Chamomile Extract is excellent in a formulation with powerful actives because it contains flavones. These flavones inhibit the production of inflammation, even in deeper skin layers. [3] Meanwhile, The apigenin in Chamomile protects the skin barrier. [4].

LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA EXTRACT (LAVENDER)

Lavender Oil softens and conditions the skin. The linalyl acetate in lavender enhances cell growth.

This is combined with:

ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE (ORGANIC ALOE)

Aloe Leaf Juice has an enzyme that repairs skin cells, soothes and heals the skin. It provides nourishment to the skin as it contains Vitamins A, C, Bs, and E as well as minerals and enzymes.

This skin food heals, hydrates, and accelerates skin cell growth. It provides anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

ROSA CANINA FRUIT OIL

Organic Rosehip seed oil has amazing skin rejuvenation benefits. Rosehip Seed Oil is high in Vitamins A, C, and E. They provide nutrients, fade acne scars and promote cell turnover.

Rose Hip Seed Oil is a Vitamin C variant that is both a treatment and a hydrating ingredient. It offers the benefits of Vitamin C and Retinol serums such as lightening dark spots but without causing irritation.

Rosehip oil also has omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to soothe and moisturize eczema or dry skin. [5]

*Rosehip provides excellent skin rejuvenation*

STAY-C

Stay-C is a type of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate which is a stable form of Vitamin C. It is activated only upon absorption. Stable C is more power with less irritation than other Cs which makes it ideal for treating orbital area discoloration, photo damage and wrinkles.

NIACINAMIDE

Niacinamide is Vitamin B3. It addresses many skin issues.

Niacinamide is a very good addition to an anti-aging regimen because it promotes collagen, addresses a loss of elasticity and reduces redness. It fades acne scars and brightens the skin. [6] It reduces the inflammation of rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions [7] It inhibits melanin production in hyperpigmentation. [8]

Niacinamide reduces the impact of environmental damage because it improves skin’s barrier and Ceramide levels [9].

DMAE

Dimethylaminoethanol or DMAE, topical DMAE firms and tightens the appearance of the skin. It has short-term and long-range skin tightening effects.

VITAMIN E

Sweet Almond ingredient overview — Sweet Almond

this formula contains two kinds of vitamin E: TOCOPHERYL ACETATE and TOCOPHEROL. Vitamin E softens the skin and makes it more pliable.

PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS OIL

Sweet almond oil contains vitamins A, B, D, and E and has the ability to gently lighten dark under eye circles.

PANTHENOL (VITAMIN B-5)

Panthenol is an emollient moisturizer which soothes the skin.

Panthenol is the alcohol analog of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and is a provitamin of B5.

Panthenol is believed to promote cell regeneration. It is a humectant that fosters skin healing.

ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS EXTRACT

Rosemary Extract is soothing and helps reduce puffiness and lightens dark spots.

Rosemary Extract combats dry skin. It naturally protects skin from sun damage and free radicals.

It also has natural antiseptic properties and is a gentle exfoliant for dead skin flakes.

Rosemary Extract is soothing and helps reduce puffiness and lightens dark spots. It is stimulating and promotes better blood circulation to deliver the nutrients necessary to build collagen, elastin and to encourage scar repair.

RETINOL

Retinol is a staple in skincare, Retinol is a vitamin A derivative found in many skincare creams. It refines the skin’s texture by causing rapid cell turnover and softens wrinkles.

The Experience

Lightly tap – do not rub – this rich cream around the delicate eye area skin. Despite some powerful actives such as retinol and Vitamin C, it is luxe and soothing, so skin does not feel dry, tight or irritated.

The scent of Rosehips is pleasant but present. I prefer scentless products around the orbital area, but was lulled into making this product an exception.

The cream feel luxe yet surprisingly absorbs very well into the my skin. There is no residue left on the skin. This is a benefit of the waterless KB5 base – it enables actives to do their best work and get deep into the skin.

This makes quick work of smoothing fine lines and evening the skin tone.

Where to Shop It

Find Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Serum at KatBurki.com and Saks Fifth Ave

More Kat Burki Products We Love

The Kat Burki range is a stellar lineup! Here are some of our favorites:

Kat Burki Power Trio Radiance Oil

Kat Burki Power Trio Radiance Oil is just three powerful oils: Tamanu, Kukui Nut, and Raspberry. Together they provide a non-irritating treatment that rejuvenates the skin. Ideal for winter weather. Read our full review in the article “Raspberries to the Rescue Kat Burki Power Trio Radiance Oil“

Kat Burki Power Trio Radiance Oil contains collagen-building Red Raspberry Seed Oil, rich in ellagic acid.

KAT BURKI Micro Firming wand

References

Gohil, Kashmira J et al. “Pharmacological Review on Centella asiatica: A Potential Herbal Cure-all.” Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences vol. 72,5 (2010): 546-56. doi:10.4103/0250-474X.78519
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, January 2009, pages 404
Merfort I, Heilmann J, Hagedorn-Leweke U, Lippold BC. In vivo skin penetration studies of camomile flavones. Pharmazie. 1994;49(7):509-511.
Hou M, Sun R, Hupe M, et al. Topical apigenin improves epidermal permeability barrier homoeostasis in normal murine skin by divergent mechanisms. Exp Dermatol. 2013;22(3):210-215. doi:10.1111/exd.12102
Mitsuishi, T. , Shimoda, T. , Mitsui, Y. , Kuriyama, Y. and Kawana, S. (2004), The effects of topical application of phytonadione, retinol and vitamins C and E on infraorbital dark circles and wrinkles of the lower eyelids. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3: 73-75. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00070.x
Grajzer, Magdalena, et al. “Characteristics of rose hip (Rosa canina L.) cold-pressed oil and its oxidative stability studied by the differential scanning calorimetry method.” Food chemistry 188 (2015): 459-466.
Niren NM, Pharmacologic doses of nicotinamide in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions: a review. Cutis. 2006 Jan;77(1 Suppl):11-6.
Josefina Navarrete-Sol, “A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial of Niacinamide 4% versus Hydroquinone 4% in the Treatment of Melasma”, Clinical Study Volume 2011 |Article ID 379173
Tanno, O. , et al “Nicotinamide increases biosynthesis of ceramides as well as other stratum corneum lipids to improve the epidermal permeability barrier.” Br J Dermatol.2000 Sep;143(3):524-31.
Mitsuishi, T. , Shimoda, T. , Mitsui, Y. , Kuriyama, Y. and Kawana, S. (2004), The effects of topical application of phytonadione, retinol and vitamins C and E on infraorbital dark circles and wrinkles of the lower eyelids. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3: 73-75. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00070.x

Best Brightening Shadow: Chantecaille Eye Shade Ginger

January 17, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Chantecaille Eye Shade in Ginger looks rather underwhelming in the pan but it sings on the lid. See what is to love about this eyeshadow.

PRODUCT TYPE:

Eyeshadow

WHAT IT DOES

It appears transparent when applied wet and opaque when applied dry. It layers beautifully with no flaking or powdery appearance.

Instead of glittery looking shimmer, the non-matte shades have a lovely shifting iridescence that looks great on eyes over 30.

There is a brightening quality, similar to YSL Touche Eclat but not as pink.

It is not a overly warm or orange peach. It pairs well with shimmers, mattes, neutrals and a smokey eye.

WHAT WE LOVE

It has a finish like a finely milled powder.

Multiple layers don’t look cakey. No fallout, no chalky buildup. There is a slew of flattering shades. The formulation is free of unfriendly chemicals.

This particular shade, Ginger, is our favorite Brightening Eyeshadow.

Ginger Eyeshadow is a brightening pale peachy nude basic

We love the Chantecaille Eye Shade in Ginger as a subtle brightening base for pale skin: it adds just a hint of pink pale peach that looks like natural skin but better.

Basically what we wish our lids looked like naturally.

Where to Shop It

Find Chantecaille Eye Shades at BlueMercury, Saks and SpaceNK

Ingredient Overview: Saccharomyces Ferment

January 17, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Probiotics and Postbiotics are trending in skincare. One skincare ingredient that is gaining traction is Saccharomyces Ferment. Find out how this ingredient can level up your skincare routine, and some of our favorite products containing this yeast ferment.

What is Saccharomyces Ferment

Saccharomyces Ferment is a probiotic yeast obtained by fermentation. It is considered a postbiotic.^[1]

A moisturizing, skin- soothing, nutrient rich yeast ferment that stimulates cell renewal with amino acids and peptides. It is well tolerated even by sensitive skin types.

What is Saccharomyces Ferment in skincare

Why is Fermentation Useful?

Fermentation increases nutrient density like a skincare ingredient “power level up”.

In Saccharomyces Ferment, it adds nutrients to a formulation as it produces amino acids and peptides. Amino acids and peptides can be easily absorbed by the skin to promote collagen synthesis and nourish our skin cells.

The beta-glucan in Saccharomyces Ferment enhances its’ ability to provide a buffer for potent actives within a formulation.

It increases oxygen flow to skin cells. The better the oxygen flow and consumption, the better vital skin components such as collagen and elastin are maintained.

Saccharomyces lysate extract is believed to neutralize toxins such as trace heavy metals and pesticides. ^[2]

Products We Love Containing Saccharomyces Ferment

Saccharomyces Ferment is popular in K-Beauty skincare brands. It is also seen in some Estee Lauder, Origins, and Clinique products.

Here are a few products we recommend:

HaruHaru Wonder Honey Green Brilliant Cream

HaruHaru Wonder Honey Green Brilliant Cream is a lightweight gel texture lotion with a host of stellar ingredients which together promote collagen synthesis.

Fermented ingredients such as fermented green tea and Saccharomyces Ferment both protect the skin and rejuvenate. These ferments enable better ingredient absorption as they break down ingredient molecules into smaller molecules easier for the skin to absorb.

It is a generously-sized product with 95% natural origin ingredients, including the highly effective Camellia Japonica is also known as Japanese Camellia or tsubaki. It is the authentic Japanese Camellia seen in brands like Tatcha and SK-II.

Read our full review here

A lightweight lotion with serious benefits

Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner

This go-to toner gently brightens the skin with niacinamide, arbutin and licorce root, hydrates with and delivers a hydrating boost from its’ hyaluronic acid and Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate.

Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner review coming soon! Stay tuned!

Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist can be mistaken for an overly dramatic setting spray, when it really is a skin treatment on the go.

It contains more than a dozen treating actives that are considered the “star” ingredient all on their own. These ingredients include Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, licorice root, rice germ oil, red algae ginseng, royal jelly extract, and Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, and of course, saccharomyces ferment.

If you refresh your makeup during the day with a water spray and a Beauty Blender, Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist can really up your dewy skin game while protecting its’ exposome.

This product is most often used by skincare devotees.

Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist contains SACCHAROMYCES/RICE FERMENT FILTRATE

Summary of Saccharomyces Ferment Ingredient Overview

Saccharomyces Ferment undergoes a fermentation process that adds potency to the base ingredient. It adds nutrients to a formulation as it produces amino acids and peptides.

Ferments in general enable better ingredient absorption as they break down ingredient molecules into smaller molecules easier for the skin to absorb. It enables formulation absorption within the skin to maximize results.

Did you find this article Ingredient Overview: Saccharomyces Ferment useful? Then you may enjoy other reading other Ingredient Overviews about ingredients often used in clean beauty such as:

References

British Journal of Dermatology, May 2019, ePublication
Lukic J, Chen V, Strahinic I, et al. Probiotics or pro-healers: the role of beneficial bacteria in tissue repair. Wound Repair Regen. 2017;25(6):912-922. doi:10.1111/wrr.12607