Hot Off the Press: HILARY RHODA NAMED NEW FACE OF ESTĒE LAUDER

hilary-rhoda.jpg

New York, NY, January 26, 2007 - Aerin Lauder, Senior Vice President, Creative Director, Estēe Lauder, today announced that the brand has signed Hilary Rhoda as a new face of Estēe Lauder. Hilary will be featured in advertising campaigns for skincare and makeup beginning August 2007.


"Hilary is one of fashion's brightest stars," said Ms. Lauder. "Her sophisticated all-American look has captivated the attention of the fashion and beauty world in a very short time. Hilary is perfect for Estēe Lauder."


Read more by clicking the following link:

Continue reading Hot Off the Press: HILARY RHODA NAMED NEW FACE OF ESTĒE LAUDER.
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Posted on January 26, 2007 1:15 PM in categories: Estee Lauder, Hot Off the Press

DeLush Love It Or Lose It: Eyelash Extensions

lashx.jpgTime for you to weigh in again!

Okay, so we've been hearing about this new all-the-rage trend among celebrities who want the glamour of thick lashes every time they leave the house but want to eliminate the chore of applying false ones constantly.

These new lash additions, which can stay on for up to 2 months, are professionally applied with a special adhesive. They are supposed to be much more comfortable and lighter in weight than traditional false eyelashes and are put on one at a time. Application can take well over an hour and can cost anywhere up to approximately $350 for the initial visit, with touch-ups costing less and also requiring less time.

Is this something you'd consider? Have you already tried them? We want you to tell us if this is something you think is truly glam or simply ridiculous!

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Posted on January 19, 2007 1:37 PM in categories: Love It or Lose It

Product Line Feature: Parfumerie Generale

parfumeriegen2.jpgWhat They Say: "Created by chemist-turned-perfumer Pierre Guillaume, Parfumerie Generale (a play on his initials) boasts one of the most exciting perfume collections in many, many years. Unusual combinations and an unabashed, pure joy in the creation of fragrances that aren’t overly “intellectual” or too weird to wear (while still offering something utterly unique) are hallmarks of this amazing line. Full of personality and highly distinctive, every single one of the perfumes in this line bears its own strong character; there’s no fluffy, forgettable ‘filler’ perfumes here. Many of the dark fragrances are set off by something sweet; the lighter fragrances have a dash of wood or tea some other anchoring scent…always unexpected, and flat-out exciting. We know you’ll agree."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: These scents are another that I was introduced to by LuckyScent, and I'm incredibly impressed. It's true, not each particular fragrance in the line may be perfect for you, but of the 13 currently offered online I believe that most of you could find something appealing to your tastes. These last a very long time on the skin and have wonderful complexity which reveals itself to you the longer you wear the fragrances. There is a delicious richness to these scents and they linger for HOURS.

My favorite so far? Hyperessence Matale (12). When I asked my husband to give me a word to describe this scent featuring black tea, citrus, cedar leaves, musk, pepper and jasmine, he smelled it on me thought for a moment, and said "Sexy?" I told him that wasn't something fabulously descriptive to put up on DeLush. But he's a guy...I suppose that's about as detailed as he could get, so I'll take it.

Retail Price: $80 OR $3 for a sample! (at luckyscent.com - and I highly suggest that you try out some samples because they'll last you MORE than long enough to figure out if you like something or not and you won't lose a lot of money if you don't)

(Remember, DeLush does not give ratings to fragrances because each individual has unique preferences and body chemistry that affect their experience with scents. What we want to do is give you our best explanation of the fragrance from our experience and let you know about the staying power, etc. For more fragrance ideas, just go to the "Perfumes" category to see what else we've tried!)

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Posted on January 18, 2007 10:36 PM in categories: Parfumerie Generale, Perfumes

The DeLush Interview: Dermalogica On Montana's Annet King

annetKing2.jpgAnnet King, Director of Training and Development for The International Dermal Institute (IDI), is both CIDESCO and CIBTAC certified with more than 18 years of skincare industry experience. She develops the extensive IDI curriculum, oversees the training of nearly 200 instructors worldwide and is recognized globally for her training abilities, expertise and knowledge of all things skin and body related.

Originally founded in 1983 by Jane and Raymond Wurwand, the The International Dermal Institute is headquartered in Torrance, California and currently has 36 Training Centers throughout the United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. IDI serves as the foremost authority on professional skin therapy and the premier provider of post-graduate education for professional skin therapists.

Annet has been with IDI for nine years. Prior to joining IDI she was Director of Training for a skin care distribution company in Singapore; supervised the regional training for several major skin care lines, and served as Vice Principal to two CIDESCO certified schools. In addition Ms. King consulted and assisted in the development of skin care centers and spas throughout Southeast Asia.

Ms. King’s dynamic personality, paired with her extensive skin expertise, makes her one of the most in-demand guest speakers at educational events worldwide.


DeLush Asks: You have an extensive background in the skincare industry. How did you become so passionate about it?

Annet Says: It's all I've ever done! I Started when I was 14 yrs old in my friend's mother's beauty salon sweeping up hair, then went to skin and body therapy college after high school, ran a day spa, was an instructor then spa director on cruise ships, lived in Asia and was a spa consultant and then moved to the U.S 9 years ago. I loved the ability to help people improve their skin and self esteem; it's a wonderful career with many opportunities. For me it was always about teaching and travel.

DeLush Asks: What is the key ingredient(s) that you feel women need to make sure they incorporate somehow into their skincare regimens?

Annet Says: Hard to say with so much available today, and it all depends on your personal skin condition. Salicylic acid is wonderful for oily skin, Peptides for aging skin, Hylauronic acid for dehydrated skin and everyone needs to wear sunscreen!

DeLush Asks: Tell us a little about the significance of the FaceMapping process.

Annet Says: It is very important for the consumer to understand their own skin and how to care for it correctly. Receiving a thorough detailed skin analysis where their skin is mapped out inch by inch and actually felt is revolutionary in skincare. Most department stores sell you product by asking you what skin type you are and most consumers don't know or are wrong about their own skin. They will complain of being dry but they have breakouts, so really they are oily with dehydrated skin etc.

We believe at dermalogica that we are the experts; we have the training and passion and we want to educate you about your skin and share with you what you need to use and why. You end up getting much better results on your skin and saving money as you are not wasting it on the wrong products! Facemapping also allows us to customize your skin treatment on the day of your treatment, treating your skin for exactly how it is on that day versus providing you with a cookie-cutter type treatment. This way it's more individual and personalized to your needs.

DeLush Asks: What do you feel is the most innovative product from Dermalogica? Treatments?

Annet Says: There are so many! Daily Microfoliant is one of the most popular products we have. It's one of our "hero" products as it is completely revolutionary in its formula and results. This was the first powder microfoliant introduced into the market and people love the way it makes their skin feel and look. It cleanses, exfoliates and brightens in one easy step!

All of our treatments are designed based upon getting great results and providing the client with an "insane experience". We believe that the dermalogica Face Treatment is the most thorough, comprehensive, professional, result oriented skin treatment available. (We don't use the old-fashioned term 'facial'; it doesn't describe what we do at dermalogica!)

DeLush Asks: How do you personally take care of your skin?

Annet Says: I have oily skin that is also now very much in the aging category so my routine is quite interesting! I love to multi-task as much as possible to save time, and of course dermalogica is the only product I'll use on my face. I start every day by Precleansing with dermalogica's Precleanse, which helps to deep cleanse away deep oil and dead cells, I follow with Dermal Clay Cleanser which I leave on as a 2 minute mini masque (while I have shampoo in my hair) - again, great for combating oily shine and basically it's the minty skin equivalent of brushing your teeth!

When I get out of the shower, I use Daily Resurfacer as a toner/exfoliator and the little finger mitt lets me get into those congested areas around the nose and chin. I use Power Rich as my age-fighting moisturizer and don't use a separate eye product as I love this around my eyes.

My final step is Day Bright mixed into my Treatment foundation; that way I get my SPF coverage, brightening action and a little luminous glow to my make up base! Sounds like a lot but it's no more than a few minutes! I get a professional skin treatment about 3 times per year, as I'm now such a huge fan of our dermalogica microtreatments (which I like to get more frequently to take away the blackheads and lines!).

DeLush Asks: What is your favorite drugstore product?

Annet Says: I'm not ashamed to say that my make up bag has products from Chanel, Lancome, L'Oreal and Maybelline! I love Maybelline Superstay liquid lip colors and have about 20 different shades; it lasts nearly all day and isn't as drying as other long-lasting brands/ The lip balm that comes with it is nourishing and nice and glossy.

DeLush Asks: Finally, what’s one of your favorite skincare tips to share with women?

Annet Says: Seek expert advice from a dermalogica trained skin therapist and make sure you are changing up your routine to suit your skin. You can have really great-looking, healthy skin if you know how to take care of it. Too many women are running to the dermatologist and plastic surgeon for immediate quick fixes but are forgetting about the basics of good skincare.

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Thank you for taking time to answer our questions, Annet!
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About Dermalogica On Montana:

Step inside Dermalogica on Montana, Dermalogica’s award-winning corporate flagship store in Santa Monica, California, and you’ll understand that the future of skin therapy isn’t just about what happens inside the treatment room – it’s about the complete interactive skin health experience.

The modern, clean lines of the space are complimented by the smooth, peculiar-shaped treatment Pods that are seated centrally within Dermalogica on Montana (instead of being hidden down a corridor). The skin therapists don’t wear lab coats, but instead suit up in active gear that perhaps looks more appropriate for a high-intensity hike. And you’ll never just linger in a sitting area for your name to be called – feel free to play with Dermalogica products at the Product Pool while you wait!

These, along with many other touches, clearly denote that Dermalogica understands that the days of passive clients who simply want “creaming and steaming” are over. Consumers are more educated, and want a truly interactive experience that delivers results – all while feeling insanely great. And they’ll find this interactive experience at Dermalogica on Montana!

Find out more here or call 310.260.8682.

To purchase dermalogica's products, go to dermalogica.com

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Posted on January 16, 2007 4:31 PM in categories: DeLush Interviews, Expert Advice

The DeLush Interview: Dr. Jeannette Graf

Grafheadshot2.jpgChances are Dr. Graf's name sounds familiar. She is well-known for her expertise in skincare as a board certified clinical and research Dermatologist. Not only do her clients and others rely on her extensive knowledge about the science of skincare, but also her ability to blend nutrition and lifestyle counseling into an overall prescription for beauty inside and out.

We were fortunate enough to have an opportunity to ask Dr. Graf some questions that we thought our DeLush readers might be interested in recently. From sun damage to at-home products, read on for some excellent advice and information.

You can find out more about Dr. Graf here and her own line of products as well.

DeLush thanks Dr. Graf for her generous time!

DeLush Asks: Obviously one of the biggest agressors against healthy skin is the sun. At this point, what SPF do you truly recommend daily? Does this differentiate based on skin coloring or should we all take similar precautions?

Dr. Graf Says: The sun is indeed a major aggressor against all skin types. Skin does have a natural UV absorber called melanin. This pigment is found most abundantly in darker skin types. The darker the skin tone the more melanin it contains and the more widely distributed in the epidermis. I recommend wearing a daily broad spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to all of my patients regardless of skin color. During the summer months I recommend even higher SPF levels of 55 with frequent reapplication if outdoors. The differences may be based on the type of sunblock used. For example, light skin may do quite well with a titanium dioxide-containing block while the same product often leaves a bluish caste on African American skin.

Even though lighter skin is more vulnerable to the sun’s damaging rays and has a greater chance of developing skin cancer, no one is immune to skin cancer. In addition, darker skin tones are often very sun sensitive and can burn easily. Certain medications and medical conditions can also increase skin sensitivity to the sun resulting in skin which burns quickly upon exposure.

Finally, there is also a cosmetic consideration which is the tendency of darker skins to develop pigmentary changes. In African American skin which develops large pores and T-zone oil with age as well as blemishes, it is not unusual for drying acne medications to irritate the skin as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the acne blemishes. Asian, East Indian and Hispanic skin types have pigmentary changes as their number one cosmetic concern. For all of these reasons I do not differentiate based on skin color - instead, I urge all patients to take similar precautions.


DeLush Asks: What is your opinion of the surge of recent over-the-counter versions of typically dermatologist or spa-applied treatments? (microdermabrasion, peels, etc.)

Dr. Graf Says: There have been an increasing number of over-the-counter at-home treatments available such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels which, though not dermatology strength, have nonetheless provided consumers with an opportunity to perform effective treatments in the privacy of their home at a great cost savings. If a treatment sold by a reputable company is used in exactly the way it is meant to be - these treatments can provide excellent results.

The downside of all of these at-home treatments is that there is an increased risk of skin complications such as irritation - often severe - from misuse and/or overuse of these products. The common tendency of 'more must be better' can result in 'over-exfoliation' of the skin which is damaging to the skin and at its worst can be severe enough to cause scarring and pigmentary changes.

In order to safely use these very well-made and effective treatments with success, I recommend the following rules:



DeLush Asks: You talk about “mechanical aging” and how we have some control over its effects on our skin by realizing when we are frowning, furrowing our brows, squinting, etc. and attempting to eliminate those habits. I notice that my worst habit is scrunching my brows together a bit while I’m concentrating, and when I catch myself I very often try to ease up and relax that area. But I often still feel a tension in between my brows that will lead them right back into that bad position. Is there something we should do to not only stop the action but release the tension in that area as well, to decrease the chances of returning to the habit automatically? (i.e. facial massage, etc.)

Dr. Graf Says: Mechanical aging is the term used to describe wrinkles and furrows that occur over time from repetitive wrinkle forming movements such as frowning and drawing the brow together. It is very difficult to stop oneself from from these types of movements since they are so much a part of our normal expression and we often frown while we are sleeping, however, it is not impossible. If Botox treatments are not in your radar than I suggest trying a number of different methods - preferable at the same time so they overlap and have additive results.

First, find a way that you have a constant reminder that you're frowning so when you are aware of it you can consciously relax the muscle. Try wearing an adhesive patch (made for sensitive skin if possible to avoid tape irritation) which can provide enough resistance to make you aware. This can be helpful even while sleeping providing enough resistance that the muscle will relax without waking you up.

Facials and regularly performed facial massage with lymphatic drainage by a skilled aesthetician can help muscles relax and decrease habitual frowning. Also, electrical stimulation treatments performed by a skilled professional can strengthen facial muscles that counteract the frowning muscles over time. Other relaxation techniques including acupuncture treatments can be helpful.

Use a good anti-wrinkle serum or cream with ingredients designed to lessen wrinkles and use it regularly, paying close attention to treating you lines. Your treatment in addition to helping the line lessen will also provide a massage and special care and attention to the area.

Finally, the new generation of temporary wrinkle relaxers through the use of GABA inhibitors can help by lessening the frequency and strength of muscle contraction to the frown lines.


DeLush Asks: What do you feel is the best first step toward reversing sun damage?

Dr. Graf Says: The best first step toward reversing sun damage is to prevent it. The earlier you start sun prevention, the less sun damage you will cause. The daily application of a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunblock is a must for everyone - rain or shine. I also recommend wearing a mineral foundation over sunblock for enhanced UVA/UVB protection since most have an SPF of 15 - 20.

Preventing further sun damage also means that smoking cigarettes must stop since smoking increases sun damage.

Skin care to help reverse sun damage starts with retinol which is non-prescription Retin-A or the next best thing. Gently exfoliating the skin on a monthly basis can help the skin's appearance as well as allow treatment products to better penetrate the skin.

Using an anti-wrinkle product with retinol which contain anti-wrinkle peptides can be helpful in reducing the wrinkling that has accumulated and a topical anti-oxidant containing Vitamins E and C as well as green tea and other natural extracts can add more protection to the skin and enhance the action of sunblock.

Use a product to moisturize and hydrate the skin which also contains lipids for the moisture barrier. Many of these moisturizers also contain ingredients to 'brighten ' and revitalize the skin.

That's a start - finally, use a gentle pH balanced facial cleanser so as not to strip precious lipids off the skin and most of all - 'be patient and be good to yourselves."


DeLush Asks: Your skin looks absolutely lovely. It’s clear that you are a good example of proper skincare. If you don’t mind sharing, what is your personal skincare routine?

Dr. Graf Says: Thanks for the compliment. In a word, I employ everything that has been discussed and more. As part skin care junkie and part mad scientist I can tell you that life can be interesting. I am constantly trying new formulations with new ingredients and/or improved ingredients; I'm always first to try them since I have to love them in every sense before I'll continue to research them. I also use treatment products with skin respiratory factors which create energy within the skin cells making them better oxygenated and resulting in brighter skin. I use PHA's rather than AHA's as exfoliants since they are far less irritating and yield so many benefits including smooth, even-toned skin with enhanced radiance. Radiance is my goal and it is achieved by taking care of both inner and outer care. Everyone is capable of achieving radiance.


DeLush Asks: You have your own line of skincare products available on the Home Shopping Network right now. Will they soon be available through other venues?

Dr. Graf Says: Yes, my products have been available through my office and soon they will be available through my website, askdrgraf.com.


DeLush Asks: What would you consider one of the best low-budget skincare products? Luxury product?

Dr. Graf Says: That is a tough one! There are so many and it depends on what you are looking for as a benefit.

If you're on a budget:



For luxury high-end skin care:


DeLush Asks: What product from your own line are you most proud of?

Dr. Graf Says: Another tough question since I’m proud of all of them...I would have to say my Skin Deep Wrinkle products and my retinol resurfacing product as well as my retinol line.

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Posted on January 12, 2007 1:01 PM in categories: DeLush Interviews, Expert Advice

Hot Off the Press: Will You Be Near NYC this Valentine's Day?

delluvaspa.jpgINNOVATIVE SPA TO SEED INTEREST IN VINOTHERAPY AMONG NEW YORKERS

- Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa to uncork in time for Valentine’s Day -

NEW YORK – New Yorkers think they set trends, but they have been a step behind when it comes to the hottest trend in skincare: vinotherapy. New York City’s thirst for vinotherapy skincare will be quenched in early February 2007, with the opening of the first vinotherapy spa. In time for Valentine’s Day, wine lovers and spa goers will be able to indulge in decadent wine-based skincare treatments that will have them toasting to feeling fabulous.

Vinotherapy –also know as wine therapy– first found popularity in France, home to all things wine. Vinotherapy has spread across Europe to South Africa, California, and now finally to New York.

Vinotherapy spa products are made from wine extracts, grape skins, grape seeds, grape seed extracts, husks, grape seed oil and vine leaf extracts. Delivering highly effective antioxidants, vinotherapy is perfect for men or women that want to look and feel wonderful.

As the first vinotherapy spa in New York City and one of the first in the U.S., the Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa is at the forefront of this exciting new development in skincare. Delluva’s expert spa sommeliers can help relax fidgety fashionistas and busy bankers with treatments from categories such as Full-Bodied, Smooth Finish, and Tasting Menu.

A great compliment to any Valentine’s Day, the Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa is ideal for couples that are looking for fun and unique romantic activities. The spa will offer three Valentine’s Day specials that are valid for the entire month of February:

The Perfect Pairings Package: (80 minutes)
Includes a 60-minute Couples massage of your choice. You will be served complementary champagne and chocolate covered fruits and nuts at the start or end of your massage. And to continue the mood at home, your package includes a Riedel “O for Two” set of 2 stemless wine glasses and decanter, a $25 gift certificate to VinoVino, a box of Bissinger handmade chocolates and an Archipelago Botanicals candle. ($295)

The Aphrodite Package: (4 hours)
Includes a TheraVine™ Gel Wrap with full body exfoliation and a 30-minute massage. Followed by a Delluva Signature Manicure and Pedicure. A complementary light lunch and glass of wine or champagne will be served. ($275)

The Bacchus Package: (3 hours)
Includes a 90-minute massage of your choice followed by a Delluva express manicure and pedicure with buff. A complementary light lunch and glass of wine or champagne will be served. ($199)

Gift certificates for treatments are available at the Delluva Spa Boutique as are a wide array of wine-based and traditional skin and body care products, designer accessories, and gourmet food.

The Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa and Spa Boutique is located at 152 Franklin St., on the ground floor. For more information on treatments available at the Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa, readers should call 212-937-7757 or visit www.delluvaspa.com.

ABOUT DELLUVA VINOTHERAPY DAY SPA

“Delluva” (pronounced dell ooo va) comes from the Italian conjunction dell ‘uva, which means “of the grape.” Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa offers indulgent, inviting surroundings where clients experience first-class service, internationally renowned vinotherapy treatments and unexpected delights.

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Posted on January 8, 2007 6:54 AM in categories: Hot Off the Press