Beauty Buzz | OLEHENRIKSEN Skincare

OLEHENRICKSON is has been the spa of choice of celebrities for years and now you can take home the experience and the results of this cult favorite spa with the namesake skincare line. I have the pleasure of trying almost all of the latest skincare products as a fashion editor and consultant so I know exactly what to look for and which lines actually deliver what they say they will. After using OLEHENRICKSON products for the past four weeks I can confidentially say that this is the one line I will go back to. Here are some of my favorite products from the line.

Dry/Sensitive Skin Starter Kit
I really love this kit not only because all of the products work together seamlessly to give your skin a beautiful glow but also because the products come conveniently packaged in travel size which is very important for me because I'm always on the go. I use the apricot cleanser, cucumber toner, nurture me face cream and the insulator SPF daily and in that order. Then every 2 days I incorporate the new beginnings scrub and blueberry enzyme mask. My skin has been very distraught due to the summer heat which not only makes my skin oily and clogged but a breeding ground for blemishes. After using this kit I have not had a breakout and many of my previous blemishes are disappearing. For more information click here.

Walnut Complexion Scrub
The Walnut Complexion Scrub is a fabulous scrub! I am big on exfoliation so I am obsessed with scrubs and try as many possible. This scrub in particular is very grainy but not coarse ad also lathers when you add water. Your skin will feel refreshed, renewed and revived. For more information click here.

Copyright ©2010 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Velixa | Fashion's Coveted Anti-aging Skin Care Line

I recently came across Velixa, the coveted high-end anti-aging skin care line sought after by the super elite and fashion models. The line currently offers Age Defense for Day, a light whipped day lotion, and Youth Replenish for Night, a decadent moisturizing night cream for overnight renewal. Both products are made from the most luxurious and scientifically proven ingredients that work effectively to tighten and illuminate your skin right after application. With daily use, the whipped day lotion and night cream are proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and signs of aging.

This instantaneous effect of illuminated, firm skin, coupled with the proven, long lasting anti-aging results (that start to appear within seven days of using Velixa), have made it a must have for models in New York, Paris and Milan. Makeup artists are known to apply Velixa before photo shoots and runway shows to make skin taut and radiant, resulting in flawless pictures.

I use both Velixa day lotion and night cream daily. The day lotion makes a great base for makeup while protecting and rejuvenating my skin during the daytime. I have incorporated the decadent night cream into my nighttime beauty regimen and I wake up with refreshed, glowing and firm skin. Both products are truly irreplaceable. It used to be that the Velixa line was only available in exclusive salons and spas. However, they are now available to women around the globe via Velixa.com. Like their motto says, “Live now. Age later.”

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Iraya skincare

I don't particularly have oversensitive skin but I am a picky shopper where cosmetics or suchlike are concerned. So when Grazia magazine India sent me a hamper from Iraya skincare, I was apprehensive.

Iraya is the perfect merge of Indian ancient knowledge and French expertise. Iraya also satisfies my eco needs. It's products are not tested on animals, they only use pure, naturally-derived ingredients, and they adhere to ayurvedic formulae.What more could a environment friendly girl ask for?

They have 4 broad categories- skin care, face care, body care and special care.

My standout favorites from the skincare category were the Indian jasmine day scream and the aloe vera protective gel.

Face care too had some excellent products but I especially adored the saffron elixir face balm and the wheatgerm facial massage cream. I am, thankfully, blessed with acne-free skin but a friend has dutifully informed me that the 8 Spices Acne Mantra works wonders for the acne-inflicted. Also, grab the root and bark eye cream after that late night out to look your best the next day.

Body care involved me obsessing over the sea kelp reviving body wash (doesn't that sound incredibly exotic?), the fantastic sandalwood hydrating body milk and the unbelievable wild flower nourishing body lotion which seriously relaxed me after a long, hard day.

Finally, special care had 2 great products- the nourishing head massage oil (I'm Indian and understand and embrace the importance of using oil to condition your hair once a month) and the toning and strengthening body balm which seriously saved me before a huge event (I was nearly exhausted to death).

Now, it took me the longest time to figure out what products to buy to suit my skin so if you're similarly deluded where skin is concerned, go ahead and check out their skin chart. It has all the info you'll need whether you have dry mature skin, normal to dry skin (ahem, me), normal to oily skin (for the zits-prone), and oily skin.

You can buy these gorgeous products here. Take it from me, you most definitely, will not regret it.

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Beauty Buzz | Babor's New Eco Line Baborganic

Babor is known for cutting edge skincare technology combined with the best nature has to offer. The new line, Baborganic is made from pure ingredients and formulated to relax and renew all of your senses. Here are our favorite products from the new line. Click here for more info.

Most of us suffer from dark circles and puffy under eyes. Blame our cosmopolitan lifestyle. Barborganic's revitalizing eye cream will help reduce bags, dark circles and keep wrinkles at bay. Remember when applying eye cream use only a pea size amount on your index finger and apply around, not directly on the eye.

Exfoliation plays a major role in keeping skin healthy. Barborganic offers two scrubs, one for body and one for face. The Refining Body Salt Oil Peeling is a great scrub for your body that not only sloughs off dead skin cells but also moisterizes with essential oils. The Crystal Face Scrub with white lentil extract leaves skin brighter and smoother.

We saved the best for last. Barborganic's De-stressing Fluid is by far one of the best skincare concentrates. After you cleanse pop a vile of of the De-stressing Fluid on a cotton ball and apply all over face and neck. You will instantly feel relaxed and all signs of irritation including redness will disappear. Use this product every time you need to stepback and just relax.

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Anokha Skin Care Fit For A Goddess

Coming from an Indian background I learned at an early age that some of the most luxurious, effective and exotic skincare ingredients come from nature. We love coat our hair with amla oils, mask our faces in homemade masks of crushed turmeric and yogurt and exfoliate head to toe with coconut skins. These traditions have been passed down through thousands of years and still prove to be as effective for us as they were for our gorgeous ancestors. Now you can enjoy the exuberance of Indian skincare in your own home with Anokha Skincare. A new skincare line that combines ancient Indian remedies with modern skincare for a revolutionary line of products that delivers results. I love to wake up every morning to my Anokha Almond Milk Cleanser which revives and refreshes. Surprisingly this rich cleanser takes of every bit of makeup without striping my skin of it's natural moisture. I follow up with the Anokha's lush Lotus Flower Rose Water Toner which soothes any redness. Once a week I like to treat myself to the Red Sandalwood and Neem Clarifying Masque which also contains turmeric. It leaves my skin brighter and thoroughly cleansed. This is one line that I will always have in my beauty regimen. See the entire collection of Anokha skincare products here.

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

The Zeno Mini: An Affordable Way to Banish Acne

Since I use makeup as wearable art, I like to fancy my skin as a canvas. Flawless skin is impossible to come by, so I try to make due with a highly calculated, medically advanced skincare regimen. However, once and awhile, there is always that stubborn pimple that magically appears at an inconvenient moment (be it a first date, or an important day at work).

That's when my Zeno comes to the rescue as a zit zapping miracle! The older models of the Zeno range around $160, which sounds steep during a recession, but at $89 the Zeno Mini is the perfect price for budget fashionistas.

This lightweight, handheld beauty device is clinically proven to make 90 percent of blemishes disappear within a 24 hour time period. FDA approved, it treats a single zit by using ClearPoint technology that uses heat to target the bacteria. Most blemishes can be treated within two to three treatments, but it is best to target the zit at an early stage using one treatment. The device is safe to use and requires no extra cleaning.

Unlike the older models of the Zeno, the Zeno Mini runs on two AAA Batteries, and the tip should be replaced after 45 uses.

My favorite part? It's portable! I've always been a girl-on-the-go and now I don't leave home without my Zeno Mini!

To find which Zeno product works best with your lifestyle, see MyZeno for more information.

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Clinique Must Haves

Clinique is one of my favorite affordable skincare lines. The products are well formulated and feel very clean and for lack of a better word, clinical. I've been introduced to some products I've never tried before from the line and I just had to share them with you. Here are some of my new favorites.I love Clinique's take the day off makeup remover because it really does take off every little bit of eye makeup and lipstick leaving your eyes fresh and bright and your lips ready for a great lip treatment before bed. One full size bottle lasts for two or three months and I use cotton pads rather than cotton balls with this product. I also stock up on mini sizes at Sephora and they're fantastic for travel.
I used to have dark spots from past blemishes and nothing worked for them until i discovered Dr.Miracles three step acne system and Clinique's Turnaround Radiance Peel Once-A-Week System. I use the two systems side by side and they have drastically changed the appearance of my skin and have visibly reduced my dark spots. The system is extremely simple to use you simply take the little jar filled with a potent toner like serum which you apply with a cotton ball or pad to your face. I like to use the excess on my neck and decolletage. The system breaks down dead skin cells which make your skin appear dull and also evens out your skintone drastically.

Beauty Basics, Tips For Gorgeous Hands

You can tell many things about a woman by looking at the state of her hands. Hands play a huge part in your overall look and if you have been neglecting them, it's really time to take notice. The best way to keep your hands looking flawless is to get a weekly manicure at a salon like my favorite, Dashing Diva . Or DIY by buying a manicure kit and a selection of nail polishes from the best nail polish companies, Essie and OPI. Don't forget to pick up a base coat and top coat

I've recently started using this great Rejuvenating Hand Cream by Become Beauty. I love it because it has some amazing ingredients like orange oil and peppermint that are clinically proven to improve the appearance of your hands. I also adore how fast it's absorbed and also pleased that the formula is non-greasy. I recommend slathering it on at night and then secure with cotton gloves to wake up with supple beautiful hands. Then apply it religiously during the day. Get your tube of Become Rejuvenating cream here.

The New Beauty Must Have :The Clarisonic Skin Brush

The Clarisonic has joined my new Must Have Beauty List which includes the likes of Dior Show Mascara, Philosophy Hope in a Jar and T3 dry shampoo to name a few. The Clarisonic, developed by the creators of the Sonicare toothbrush, is an innovative face brush that cleans the skin's surface incredibly well to help your skin absorb your (pricey) skincare products much more deeply. After just a few days of using the Clarisonic you will see a difference in the appearance of your skin. If you have acne the Clarisonic will clean your pores thoroughly to reduce oil and to also allow your salicylic creams to absorb much better into your skin leading the products to be more effective. If you suffer from wrinkles or aging skin the Clarisonic will gently exfoliate the top layer of your skin leaving you with a youthful glow. The Clarisonic Is also great for men especially before a close shave. I was impressed by how nonabrasive the Clarisonic felt on my skin and was even more impressed by how clean it left my skin. Many of my gal pals also use the Clarisonic and rave about how amazing their skin has become after use, it's one of those things you won't be able to be without. You can purchase the Clarisonic at Sephora.

Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector

I've been using Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector for the past 3 weeks and I am raving about this product. If you have olive to dark skin you know how annoying dark spots from past blemishes can be. Instead of covering up your flaws with loads of foundation and concealer treat them with Clinique's Even Better Skin Tone Corrector and watch them vanish forever. Simply cleanse your face with a mild face wash, I recommend the Purity cleanser by philosophy and then apply the skin tone corrector before you go bed. You can also use it during the day but don't forget your sunscreen. Sun exposure can make your dark spots even darker. Remember, beauty starts with great skin. Visit Clinique today and get ready to become absolutely flawless.

Clear Skin Made Easy With Clinique

My search for an easy skincare regimen for beautiful skin is over. Thanks to Clinique's three step acne solutions system, skincare has become affordable, effective and most of all simple. The system is composed of three products which you use three times a day that are gentle yet very effective. You will see an improvement within a few days. Here's how it works:

Step 1: Cleanse with the cleansing foam. The cleansing foam is so gentle but lathers up so well leaving your skin feeling clean but not raw. It's similar to the purity foam by philosophy.


Step 2: Tone with the clarifying lotion. You'll need to shake the bottle vigorously to dissolve the sediments into the solvent. You apply the clarifying lotion using a cotton ball and it removes all excess dirt and oil that the cleanser didn't pick up leaving no chance for bacteria to attack your skin all day or night. It also improves your skin tone and exfoliates dead skin from the surface allowing the next step, the clearing moisturizer to work its magic more effectively.

Step 3: Moisturize with the clearing moisturizer. I adore how hydrating this moisturizer is. It soothes your skin and leaves your skin fresh.


This regimen is to be followed two times a day. This system is perfect for males and females with all types of skin types, and I recommend it even if you do not suffer from acne. It's best to prevent it before it happens. You never know when your skin will breakout so it's best to be prepared. If you don't suffer from acne and use this system rest assured your skin will be soft, clear and beautiful. Remember no matter how great your skin is it's important to remove a days worth of makeup and pollution, exfoliate dead skin and also to moisturize, everything this system includes. On the other hand no matter how bad your skin is there is hope and it can be repaired. This system is a great start. Get it here.

This Is Clean, This Is Natural - Suki Skincare

It can be hard to find effective, high quality products in the vast sea of the new breed of organic skin care products. Most claim to do such and such but fail to deliver their promises. Believe me I've been through many. So I was especially pleased when I found Suki, a new skin care line by Suki Kramer that utilizes the best natural ingredients for 100% pure and natural products. Minimally processed and bio-dynamic, Suki is one of the few product lines to not use fragrances, dyes or any synthetics of any kind.
If you want to go natural, I suggest starting with the most important part of your beauty, your skin. Start your morning off with the Suki foaming exfoliating lemongrass cleanser. It smells delicious and leave your skin bright and smooth. Then use the clarifying toner to pick up and residue and also to help tone uneven skin. Finish off with the Suki intensive brightening cream and then of course an oil free sunscreen of your choice after that. Your skin will be free of toxins and petrochemicals you'll actually feel your skin breath. Suki is pure, natural and most of all, all you. Get natural with Suki today.

Beautiful & Lush Skin Courtesy of AMBI

No matter what you wear, rich, moisturized skin is a must. If you're a woman of color like myself, you need a little extra TLC. I trust AMBI to keep me well moisturized. AMBI skincare is formulated especially for women of color and delivers smooth even skin. I've been a fan of AMBI for the past 3 years and love the way my skin stays moisturized for hours. AMBI products have also helped my skin stay even and silky smooth. I currently use the AMBI Body soft and even line.

I use the AMBI fade cream every night as recommended by my derma. If you have dark skin you know how annoying hyper-pigmentation can be. This cream helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots, and it works. Cosmetics guru, Shalini Vadhera suggests you wear sunscreen during the day to help protect hyper-pigmented skin from harmful rays that can make them even darker.

I also love love love the stretch mark diminishing oil. It's great for reducing the look of stretch marks. The key to getting great skin is staying hydrated. AMBI will take care of the outside hydration but make sure you drink lots of water. Water is nature's beauty secret and you should take advantage of it. Find AMBI products at your local drugstore.

Le Mystere Skin

You probably associate Le Mystere with lingerie but darlings get ready to associate the alluring company with high-tech skincare. I was having a horrid time keeping my skin hydrated with the drying winter weather in NY, so I was especially delighted when I heard about the launch of Le Mystere Skin products that promise to nourish and cure. It's been two weeks since I began using the Moisturizing Day Dream in the mornings (sinks in fast so I'm able to apply my make-up right after application) and the Active Nourishing Night Cream at night. The line contains this new ingredient that the beauty industry is going crazy over called Colostrum, milk that's secreted by mammals during late pregnancy and a few days after birth. It's said to have curative powers and the perfect balance of nature's goodness. We can all use some of that. Le Mystere Skin is available at Bloomy's. Mind you they have a full skincare line so make sure you check out the whole collection and enjoy a totally new and refreshing skin care regime courtesy of Le Mystere.

My Beauty Secret, Bobbi Brown

Contributed by Anupama Robin

A flawless face is a beauty must have for any season. When you have a clear, smooth complexion, it lays the perfect foundation for more color and fun. So, to create this smooth canvas, I recommend using my favorite makeup line: Bobbi Brown.

My Bobbi Brown Essentials
1. Oil-free even finish compact foundation
2. Corrector
3. Creamy concealer
4. Sheer finish pressed powder

I follow this regimen to achieve a flawless complexion:

1. First, cleanse your face with a salicylic acid or glycolic acid based cleanser like Murad Acne Cleanser or Olay Salicylic Acid Cleanser (available at drugstores). Then, use (my all time favorite scrub), Become Face Smoothing Gel. This is the best scrub I have used. Massaging this soothing scrub over your face for 2 minutes makes your skin so smooth and makes it appear brighter. Makeup slides on better after scrubbing your face with this beauty essential. A must have in every diva’s shower.

2. Then use a water-based serum to prep and soothe skin. An effective one is Olay Regenerating Serum.
3. After that, use a sunscreen based moisturizer. Again, Olay is a great skincare line that’s effective and affordable.

4. Next, starting at your cheeks apply the foundation with the sponge that is included. Apply in a downward motion to smooth down any facial hairs. Apply down to your neck for a uniform appearance of skin tone.

5. Next, apply the Corrector, under your eyes using your middle or index finger. You can also purchase a brush at the counter. But I have found that the free fingers you already have are just as effective ;) . Don’t rub, just tap and spread slowly and with a slight touch.

6. You can also cover up any brown spots or (yikes) pimples, with this same Corrector. Just spot over any blemishes.

7. Next, use the Creamy Concealer to top over the corrector in the same manner mentioned in Step 5.

8. Check to make sure you blend, blend, blend for a smooth look.

9. Next, slightly apply the pressed powder with the applicator that is included. Just press lightly over foundation and concealer. Start with under your eyes, cheeks, forehead, and finally down your neck. Then take a make-up brush to lightly brush off excess powder.

10. Finally, apply a hydrating water spray. Hold the spray away from your face and mist for one press. This will make your makeup appear fresh and natural. One affordable try is the Dream Mist Hydrating Water Spray (Available at drugstores). You can also use this spray throughout the day to refresh your skin and yourself!

As for what shade to buy, it’s best to go to the Bobbi Brown counter directly to get the perfect shade for your skin tone, but there is also help on the website. Follow the above steps, and people will always notice you not your makeup. You will achieve a clear and even tone complexion. But of course good skincare is a must. More on that next time. -A.R.

Fake a Clear Complexion

I started using this Origins concealer a few months ago and I love it. You use it to cover pimples, red spots, brown spots, scars, etc. It goes on full coverage, and is almost waterproof, but it does come off easily when you wash your face. It covers better than any other concealer I've tried in the past. It is almost "tacky" in texture when it is nearly dry, but it blends well. Foundation blends smoothly over or under it. I like to put a dab of concealer on any problem spot, or under my eyes to cover dark circles. Then, I use either my middle or ring finger to lightly "dab" it over and over, around the problem area to smooth it out evenly to the contours of my face. The key is to keep the problem spot covered with the product. Don't rub off the product by rubbing too harshly with your fingers or application sponges.

The Launch of Kaia House

Kaia (meaning "pure" in Scandinavian and "skin" in Hindi) House has teamed up with Amazon.Com's web store and launched it's online store which houses approximately 20 brands that specialize in beauty products made organically and naturally (i.e. Ole Henricksen, Juice Beauty, and Hamadi). Their blog strives to educate people on the benefits of using such beauty products made organically and naturally and explains the difference between products made with natural minerals and products made with organic minerals.

Editor's Pick:

Juice Beauty Exfoliating Cleanser, $22.00