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March 28, 2012

Kaplan MD: Scientific Innovation in Skincare

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We’ll admit, we were intimidated too. Kaplan MD Beverly Hills’ medically advanced collection combines the power of plant stem cells (rose, grape and apple) and certified organic extracts alongside Nobel Prize winning DNA Technology to really prove that it can transform skin.  The initial feelings of intimidation shifted toward infatuation as I perused the collection at the Kaplan MD Launch Event. Here’s a few of the collections that I discovered:

The Luxury Concentrate Collection is comprised of  Cellular Rejuvenating Concentrate ($295), Daily Moisture SPF 30 Concentrate ($185), Night Replenishing Concentrate ($225), and an Intensive Eye Concentrate ($135). The first product, a serum, is said to actually re-texturize the skin via one dime sized dab. This collection focuses on forcing existing skin cells to act as young cells, redefining texture. A dermatologist formulated and tested fountain of youth, anyone?

The Cleansing Collection, a cleanser and a toner (each $50), is the most important (and first) step in a skincare regimen. According to Kaplan, minimal foaming and milky cleansers are the most effective way to cleanse skin. They gently, yet effectively, remove impurities without over stripping skin of its natural oils. Kaplan also recommends always following your cleanse with a toner. Toning prepares the skin to receive all the nutrients from your treatment products. With 22 USDA Certified Organic Extracts and ginger root extract, the purifying cleanser restores skin’s natural pH. Whereas, the rich milky cleanser uses chamomile and soy to restore moisture.

The Lip 20 Treatment Collection, available in 8 shades, includes moisture therapy lip gloss and balm ($35) with SPF 20 to repair the delicate skin of the lips while enhancing natural fullness.

Saving the best bit of info for last. All of Kaplan MD’s products are paraben free, sulfate free, petrolatum free, castor oil free, Propylen Glycol free, PABA free, and mineral oil free!

Click here to shop the collection, available at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. Finally, a science we can really appreciate!

-Alana Quagliariello

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December 7, 2011

Paraben-Free; a Natural Approach to Skin Care

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There’s been a lot of questions regarding what parabens are, and why they should be avoided, so we decided to pull together some definitions and products to help to shed light on the subject. When’s the last time you looked at the ingredients in your face soap or moisturizer? Maybe it’s time to start paying attention and deciding what you want and don’t want on your body.

What are parabens? A paraben is any of a group of compounds used as preservatives in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and the food industry (dictionary.com).

What products have parabens? Shampoos, moisturizers, lipstick, foundation, concealer, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving and cleansing gels to name a few. Without parabens, bacteria would begin to develop in the product, potentially harming users.

Why should we avoid parabens? Recently, health concerns are popping up as we are being told to steer clear of paraben products. They are being linked to cancer and/or hormonal disruptions. Whether or not they are incredibly harmful remains in question, but for those who wish to err on the side of safety, we’ve found plenty of products that do not contain parabens.

1. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Lotion: A lightweight moisturizer designed to leave a balanced appearance, priced at $24.50.

2. Neutrogena Naturals is a line devoted to pure, natural skincare. Prices range from a $2.99 lip balm to a $7.49 cleanser.

3. Tarte 24.7 Natural Lip Sheer, SPF 15 gives lips a “treat-mint” with vitamin E and a breath freshening burst, all for $16. Available in 5 shades at Ulta.com.

4. bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation, $25, gives flawless coverage without any harmful substances. Made from only pure, crushed minerals, this powder feels like a cream. Check out the entire Bare Escentuals line available at Sephora.com

5. Laura Geller Sugar Free Blush and Brighten Boysenberry, $29.50 The matte finish of this blush provides a warm, natural-looking flush to the skin, while the color palette is just exquisite to look at.

The preservatives may help shelf life, but these paraben-free products are more concerned with real life. If the results are real, why not take a natural approach to skincare? To find a range of products and brands specifically paraben free and/or made mainly of natural ingredients, most beauty e-tailers now offer sections dedicated just to that classification at places like Sephora, ULTA, and Drugstore.com.

-Alana Quagliariello

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