Products Category
Monday, August 16th, 2010
Are you sick and tired of looking like a different person in the morning vs. in the afternoon at work? Global warming is definitely not helping my situation. I don’t know if you are like me, but with my combination skin causes my makeup to pretty much disintegrate by lunchtime, replaced with a nice film of oil on my face. I definitely don’t like these hot summer months.
Japanese brand makeup spray
This has been the case until I recently discovered Japanese makeup ’setting sprays.’ Makeup setting sprays seal my makeup and are resistant to smudging, tears, humidity and water. I feel like they sort of ‘hold’ my foundation and eye makeup in place for at least 4 hours when I’m outdoors and at least 8 hours when I’m indoors during these hot summer months.
Easy directions
There is such a spray from Japan that not only sets my makeup but makes my skin glow. People have started complimenting me about how bright my complexion looks. What they don’t know is that my complexion is exactly the same. It is all because of the spray. This Ikemes brand also has sprays not only for normal skin but dry, and oily skin too. The only downfall is that you can only buy it in Japan right now. *sigh* Time to make new friends in Japan!
Tags: beauty, makeup, makeup spray, makeup tips, perfect skin, skin care, skincare
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Thursday, July 15th, 2010
With summer here, there is no time like NOW to begin the practice of masking to give your skin that extra ‘oomph’ of hydration and radiance that it needs with the warm weather and sunshine.
Sure, it takes a bit of an effort on your part, but if you just try it once, I guarantee that you’ll convert. You will see that an effort of just 30 minutes/ week (15-minute sessions, 2 times a week) can make ALL the difference in the world for your skin, especially if you mask on a regular basis.
Biocellulose Sheet Mask vs. Paper Sheet Mask
Any mask– mud, cream, hydrating– can revitalize your skin, but for those of you who are more limited on time (or just lazy!), I highly recommend sheet masks. Sheet masks and its usage, are all the rage in Asia, and has been a trend for many years already, but it is still a new concept in the US market. It is essentially a sheet of paper, woven cotton, or gel-masks are now created, cuz out in the shape of your face, with holes punched out for your eyes, nose and mouth. Personally, I prefer a new generation of sheet masks made with the material called ‘biocellulose’ that molds to the shape of your face, and has a much more effective delivery system.
These masks save you the messiness of mud masks, but delivers the same results. Each are one-time use, and the steps are as follows:
Step 1: Take mask out of package.
Step 2: Place mask on your face.
Step 3: Leave on for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Dispose mask– no need to wash anything off.
That’s it. Do you STILL think you don’t have time for this? Come on… it can’t get easier than this. And another reason to convert? Pamper yourself. Can you argue with that? Just think about the money (and time) you’ll save in giving yourself a mini spa session at home instead of going into a spa. Give it a try, and post us a message to let us know what you think!
TIPS: Double up the results, and mask after a quick exfoliation with a gentle gel exfoliator like Restoration Clear Gel, and you’ll see even BETTER results. Don’t know where to purchase sheet masks? Google it, or email us, I can send recommendations. Or, if you’re already a Marie Louise fan, you can also use our Creme a-VC as a mask by applying a thin layer all over your face, leaving it on for about 15-20 minutes, and then massaging the product in.
Tags: Asia, biocellulose, cream mask, exfoliate, hydrate, hydration, japan, Mask, moisture mask, moisturization, moisturize, moisturizer, mud mask, pack, pamper, paper, radiant, revitalize, skin, skin care, skincare, steam, summer, Yourself
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Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010
Yep – summer is finally here and you can’t wait to hit the pool or beach.
Here are our Summer must-haves to pack in your cute beach bag that won’t leave you looking like a hot mess (yes, pun intended):
Sunscreen: For your face, get at least one with minimum SPF30. For your body, I’m a huge fan of spray-on sunscreens since it’s so easy to apply especially on hard to reach spots like your back. Just make sure that you choose one that’s at least SPF 60 since there’s nothing worse than looking (and feeling) like a lobster. Remember to apply this at least 15-30 minutes before you head out and re-apply every 2-3hours after sweating or swimming.
Tinted Moisturizer: Skip foundation since it’ll just melt off in the sun and instead apply a tinted moisturizer that provides the same coverage and hydrates your skin at the same time. Find one that’s oil-free and offers sun protection with at least SPF 30
UV-shield Leave-in Hair Conditioner: Beach hair is sexy but post-sun strands aren’t. Wear a, leave-in conditioner with UV filters that’ll keep your locks hydrated
Lip Balm w/SPF: Like the rest of your face, your lips also need some sun protection. Find one that keeps your lift soft and hydrated and has minimum SPF 15
Blotting Paper: Great for getting rid of all the oil when you’re basking in the sun
We’d love to know what your top 3 summer beauty/skincare issues are – i.e. sun spots, dry skin, frizzy hair, etc.
Let us know and you’ll be automatically entered into our MARIE LOUISE SUMMER ESSENTIAL CONTEST for a chance to win 1 of 2 Marie Louise Cleansing Clear Gel, our dual-purpose makeup remover/facial cleanser (approximate retail value $57). Enter to win by submitting a comment below (please answer the contest question above) and make sure to leave a valid first and last name and e-mail address so we can properly contact you if you’re a winner.
Contest STARTS on Thursday, June 3rd @ 12:01am Eastern Time (“ET”) and ENDS on Monday, June 7th @ 11:59 PM ET.
No purchase necessary. One entry per person/e-mail address. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (void in Puerto Rico, Guam, and other U.S Commonwealth & Territories) who are 18 years of age at the date of entry.
Click here for complete contest rules
Tags: beach bag, blotting paper, contest, giveaway, leave-in hair conditioner, lip balm, SPF, sunscreen, tinted moisturizer
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Thursday, May 6th, 2010
The next time you’re shopping around for new makeup, beware of the samples labeled “testers’. A recent LA Times article disclosed findings from a two-year study on public makeup testers: http://www.latimes.com/features/image/la-ig-testers-20100418,0,7091657.story
When tests were done on public makeup counters in department stores, specialty stores and drugstores, they found staph, strep, and even E.Coli bacteria on makeup testers. If that doesn’t freak you out, this finding will – when they tested the makeup on Saturdays which has the most customer traffic at cosmetic counters – THE PERCENTAGE OF TAINTED MAKEUP WAS 100%.
OMG. As if you don’t have enough things to worry about like whether that self-tanner makes you look like an oompa loompa.
So how do you try out new makeup/beauty products without physically testing them? While it’s recommended that you really shouldn’t try on any publicly-tested makeup on your eyes, lips, and nose, if you still feel the need to try on that new shade of pink lipstick, here are some tips to remember:
- Make Weekday Visits: Go during the week when there are fewer customers. If you don’t currently carry one in your purse, bring an anti-bacterial hand gel or pack of wipes with you.
- Use Tester Apps: Always use plastic, disposable applicators or cotton swabs like the ones at stores like Sephora. If you’re at a department store, don’t be afraid to ask the customer service rep behind the counter.
- Use Bottled Products: Try bottled products of lotions or foundations instead of ones that are in jars or palettes so that you can squeeze or pour them directly on your hand instead of using your fingers to scoop them out.
- Scrape the Lipstick Tip: Use a disposable applicator or a tissue paper to scrape off the tip or use a tissue paper.
- Eye & Lip Pencils: Sharpen the tip using mini sharpeners.
- Use the Spray Alcohol Bottle: Use an alcohol spray bottle to lightly spray the product. Wait a few seconds for the alcohol to evaporate before testing.
- Remove Tested Makeup ASAP: Remove makeup immediately with anti-bacterial wipes or makeup remover after testing.
So if shopping for beauty/skincare products isn’t scary enough in the first place, now you’ve got some real grossness to deal with.
We all like gifts with purchases but some freebies are better left at the cosmetic counter.
Tags: anti-bacterial, applicator, bacteria, beauty, cosmetics, department store, drugstore, e-coli, makeup, makeup tester, public, skincare, staph, strep, test, tester
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Tuesday, April 20th, 2010
Castor Oil.
What do you think of? I (wrongfully) think of cars. Petroleum. Thick, dark, gunky stuff. Intuitively to me, castor oil and skin care shouldn’t even be said in the same sentence. But oh oh oh it SHOULD…..
Several clients had brought to my attention that our products contain castor oil. Some clients worried, some clients ecstatic. Turns out the clients who were ecstatic knows their stuff! For those who are a bit lost by now, here’s a thing or two you might want to know about castor oil… for the sake of your skin.
- Hydration Sensation. Castor Oil hydrates incredibly well, even compared to other emollients! Researching a bit, it turns out that this is due to castor oil’s (light) molecular weight; as a result it penetrates into the skin, deeper.
- Acne—Be Gone! Aside from its incredible hydrating properties, Castor Oil also has a myriad of other benefits—including good news for those who suffer from minor or major acne! The Ricinoleic Acid in the ingredient works to inhibit bacteria and other viruses, and its light molecular weight = deeper penetration = more effective treatment.
- Top Anti-Aging Contender. Also related to its great penetration properties, castor oil is a much more effective ingredient to fight aging effects. Whether you want to battle fine lines or wrinkles, around the eyes, mouth, or forehead—take a second look. You’ll also find that Castor Oil can be found in many anti-aging products.
- No more scars. Penetrating deep into your skin is not only good for efficacy, but castor oil also has the ability to help soften and remove both external and internal scars.
- Bat those lashes. My cousin actually told me about the greatness of Castor Oil to ‘fluff’ eyelashes, and researching it a bit, it turns out it’s true! Using Castor Oil on lashes actually prevents thinning, and encourages growth! Those who’ve shaved away eyebrows—think about what it can do for your brows.
- Lighten up and glow. Castor Oil has also shown evidence to help diminish and ultimately remove age spots (liver warts)!
I’ve just listed a few of the many many benefits of Castor Oil, especially those related to skin care. Take a look around, and you’ll see that there are studies that show that Castor Oil ALSO helps with: skin infections, stretch marks, hair loss, keeps hair shiny and soft, removes thick calluses and corns, moles and warts, backaches, insomnia, menstrual cramps, relief from foot pain—the list is endless.
Don’t believe me? All you need to do to see what I’m talking about is type “castor oil”… wikipedia it…google it! Castor Oil it.
Note: Want to see some products that contain castor oil as one of its ingredients? Check out MLC’s Moistraiser a-VC, Crème a-VC, and Vital Nanoemulsion a-VC.
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Tuesday, April 13th, 2010
Packaging of eye patch from Biore (front view)
If steam heated eye masks are not your thing and you prefer something cooler for your eyes, then I think I might just have the right product for you. These individual packaged gel like eye patches from Biore, a large cosmetics company in Japan, offers a great alternative.
Instructions on the back of the eye patch packaging is self explanatory. The picture tells you where to place your eye patches.
I normally put these eye patches under my eyes like shown on the packaging (see picture) after I put on my eye cream at night. Then I sleep with it on for 6-8 hours and I really see a difference in the morning. Somehow the coolness of the eye patches make my eyes look smoother and hydrated in the morning. It maximizes the absorption of my eye cream too.
The top side is felt material and the bottom side is gel material.
It’s a shame that Biore only sells this product in Japan. I went on their website, www.biore.com and could not find this product except on their Japanese website. I wish these Japanese companies would share more of their beauty secrets and products with the rest of the world. I really love the coolness of the gel patch under my eyes and how great I look the next day!
Tags: Asia, asian, attractive, beautiful eyes, beauty secrets, beauty tool, beneficial, cosmetics, effective, eye, eye mask, eye patches, eyes, instrument, japan, Japanese, maximize, new products, oily, popular, prevention, skin, skin care, skincare, technology, tips, wrinkle free, wrinkle free eyes, young, young looking eyes
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Thursday, March 25th, 2010
I don’t know if you are like me but I’ve been having a hard time going to bed before midnight these days. My dark circles are becoming more apparent and my eyes look puffy and often dehydrated in the morning. Therefore, I was so happy to discover these STEAM HEATED EYE MASKS on my recent trip to Tokyo.
Steam Heated Eye Masks come in a box of 5
These Steam Heated Eye Masks come in unscented and lavender scent. I bought the lavender scent to try.
Individual packaging makes it good for traveling.
According to the packaging, I could use this eye mask any time from sleeping to taking a break or traveling. It is suppose to relax your tired eyes. It should have the effects of having a steam sauna on your eyes. Sounds amazing, right?
Directions on the back of the package.
This eye mask is very easy to use. See the pictures below for demonstration.
Lavender Scented Eye Masks
Pooh Bear demonstrating the eye masks.
Side view of the mask. The ear loops are very comfortable and should fit any face shape and size.
The two purple squares warm up once it is exposed to air, but not too hot and at a very comfortable temperature. The steam is released slowly so that I could actually feel it on my eyes and the lavender scent is so soothing and calming. I tried this eye masks right before going to bed and after applying my eye cream. The scent and the heat made me really sleepy and I fell asleep within a few minutes.
Conclusion: The skin around my eyes looked refreshed and hydrated the next day. I’m definitely buying some more when I go back to Japan again.
Tags: Asia, asian, beauty, beauty products, beauty tool, beneficial, effective, eye mask, eye masks, eyes, hydrated, hydration, japan, Japanese, learning, looking young, maximize, moisturizer, new eye masks, new products, popular, puffy eyes, skin, skin care, skincare, sparkle, steam eye masks, tips, tired eyes, tokyo, tool, wrinkle free eyes
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Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010
On my most recent trip to Tokyo, I noticed these delightful BLACK Q-tips everywhere. I love how they have both a smooth end and a spiral end. Black seems to be the “IN” color for a lot of items including blotting tissues, toilet paper, facial masks, shampoo, toothbrush, and even their chopping boards.
Black Q-tips
Notice how they are individually packed, so I can carry them everywhere with me to retouch my makeup or on a weekend getaway. The spiral end is perfect for combing through my eyelashes and smoothing out the clumps of mascara.
Individually packed
Here’s a close up:
Normal and Spiral Ends
If anyone is interested in trying this, you can buy it online here for only USD 2.99.
Tags: Asia, asian, beauty, beauty products, beauty tool, instrument, japan, Japanese, new products, new tools, prevention, skin, skin care, tips, tool
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Monday, January 4th, 2010
Make a New Year’s resolution you can keep: wash your face at night. This one change can make a HUGE DIFFERENCE in how your skin looks and feels every day.
Every day living takes a toll on skin… Makeup, oil and dirt from our fingers, even dust and smog settle on the skin, creating a really disgusting stew of yuck. Sure we wash our face at least once, hopefully twice a day, but how do you know you’re really getting skin clean? Another reason why you want clean skin is that it allows for deeper product penetration, which means you’re more likely to get the result you want in the first place.
Here are a few simple tips:
Oil is good. To get skin really clean, use an oil-based cleanser -like Marie Louise Cleansing Clear Gel – before a regular cleanser. Make-up is oil-based, and only an oil-based cleanser can safely remove it.
Double up. Double cleansing is the only way to make sure skin is truly clean. After washing with Cleansing Clear Gel, use a mild cleanser like Marie Louise Washing Foam to remove any residual dirt and debris.
Take a time out. It takes two full minutes of massaging skin in circular motion with your fingertips to fully cleanse your face and neck. Want to know how long two minutes is? Sing the “Happy Birthday” song at four times in a row.
Wash twice a day. It is important to cleanse in the morning also because we sweat when we sleep at night.
Choose wisely. Understand what your true skin conditions are to help you make a better decision about the cleansers you should use. An esthetician is the best person to consult.
Tags: beauty tool, clean skin, cleansing, effective, esthetician, flawless skin, good skin, huge difference in skin, ingredients, mild cleanser, moisturizer, new products, new year, new year's resolution, oil, oily, popular, prevention, skin, skin advice, skin care, skincare, sparkle, tips
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Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
The best way to rejuvenate skin, according to my boss- a 50 something year-old woman, who barely looks a day over 35 – is exfoliation. Her skin is plump, bright, glowing, with very little lines. Not an ounce of flake!
I asked her what her secret was…. Good genes? Foreign products made in silence by monks? Nope: “I scrub my face like crazy with a loofah every morning under the hot shower. Scrubbing dead skin away is the key!”
So I tried it. The results? Well, lets just say I didn’t feel like going out that night. Not all of us have thick skin! But it got me thinking: there’s got to be a better way to shed the dead skin cells that are clogging my pores. And that’s when my desperate search to properly exfoliate my skin started!
Remember that whole at-home-microdermabrasion-craze? Sure, massaging my skin with pea-size beads made out of walnuts shells and ingredients I could not pronounce exfoliated dead skin. In fact, it exfoliated most of my skin away, leaving it blotchy, red and sensitized. NOT what I was looking for. Neither were all the scrubs, peels, serums and magic washcloths that followed: the chemicals in most of the products only managed to assault my skin, causing it to flare-up!
Little did I know that over-exfoliating, just like hard water, weather and pollution, is actually harmful to your skin. So what’s a girl to do?
Please meet Marie Louise’s Restoration Clear Gel. First of all and most important, this exfoliating gel is actually hydrating and nourishing, thanks to ingredients such as desalted deep sea water, glycerin and algae extracts, known to help the skin retain moisture. It literally melts as your skin absorbs it, dry grains gently (and that’s the key word one should look for in all products) lifting away impurities and dead skin. Once they have ceased to appear and have been rinsed off with warm water you are left with a bright and pure complexion. Since it’s gentle enough, you can use it more often; this regular regimen will allow your skin to absorb all the benefits your moisturizers, masks and serums have to offer, thus making them more effective! It will also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles- after all, it’s no secret that the cleaner your skin is, the younger and healthier it looks!
Just remember: you shouldn’t need sandpaper to get results!
Tags: Asia, asian, attractive, beauty products, beauty tool, beneficial, cosmetics, effective, ingredients, japan, learning, maximize, new, new products, new tools, oil, oily, oily skin in the afternoon, popular, prevention, Santa Monica Daily, serum, shine, shiny skin, skin, skin care, skincare, sparkle, sunscreen, technology, tips, tool
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