Jurlique For Holiday

I loooooove the holidays. Presents, presents, presents. What's more fun than giving and receiving? Throughout the month, I'll be posting some of my favorite holiday gift giving ideas for my beautiful readers.

First, we have the facial: It's like the candle is for a smaller gift, the facial is a sure thing. Every woman adores a good facial and Jurlique gives great facials (buy that special someone a gift certificate for $110.00). I just had one today and I swear, I practically fell asleep. The aromatic scents, the facial massage, the cleansing oils, everything was pretty near perfect. Not to mention I left with glowing, radiant and hydrated skin. For more info on facials, contact a Jurlique store near you. P.S. The Rosewater Toner Mist ($21.00) spritzed throughout the entire facial is a must-must-must! Great stocking stuffer too!


On another note, pre packaged gift sets galore from one of my favorite biodynamic beauty companies. I am slightly obsessed with the gift boxes too. A gift within a gift. Great for showcasing a little PEACE, LOVE, JOY and ENCHANT around the house.

Here are your choices for Holiday 2009:
PEACE Lavender Fields Gift Set ($60)
Lavender Hand Cream
Lavender Hydrating Mist

LOVE Lovable Skin Gift Set ($45)
Rose Hand Cream
Love Balm

JOY Herbal Recovery Gift Set ($146)
Herbal Recovery Gel
Rosewater Balancing Mist
Herbal Recovery Eye Gel

ENCHANT Roses ($88)
Rose Hand Cream
Rose Body Lotion
Rosewater Balancing Mist

Weekly Must Have: Jurlique Love Balm

Rosebud Salve just got some competition. Jurlique recently launched their all-over Love Balm ($15.00) and it does for chaffed and chapped skin what Rosebud does for lips... and then some. This multifunctional product has over 10 uses in one tiny tin. Love Balm is genius for any area of your skin that needs an instant moisture pick-me-up. While the consistency is harder than that of Rosebud (almost like a solid perfume), Love Balm applies smooth and satiny with the faintest sheen, mega moisture and a delicious tangerine aroma. Like all of Jurlique products, it's ingredients are all-natural and free of Parabens, PEGs, artificial colors, artificial fragrances, SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), and SLES (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate).

Says the company: "The balm contains a potent anti-microbial agent called Totarol, a natural plant extract drawn sustainably from recycled fence posts constructed decades ago out of the New Zealand Totara tree. The extract possesses unique broad-spectrum, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity because Totarol is non-irritating to human skin. A soothing combination of chamomile, calendula, marshmallow, rosa gallica, daisy, echinacea, sweet violet and pansy, Jurlique’s Biodynamic Blend is mixed into a creamy, moisturizing base of natural oils including bisabolol, soybean, mango nut seed, jojoba, shea butter, sunflower seed and avocado. Beeswax, licorice root and tangerine oil lend Love Balm its exceptional texture and sweet natural flavor."

Says Mariah Carey, fan of the balm: "When Brett Ratner directed my new music video "Obsessed" he wanted my lips shiny so he gave me Jurlique's new Love Balm and I loved it!!"

Here are some of the uses for Love Balm:

• Lips – moisturize, condition, protect and soften the delicate skin of the lips
• Elbows – massage into rough areas
• Cuticles – rub in daily to hydrate dry cuticles
• Hands – use all over as an invisible protective glove
• Knees – massage in regularly for smooth, moisturized knees
• Legs – massage in to instantly hydrate skin and give a lovely sheen to bare legs
• Nose – apply over chapped areas to soothe during flu, cold, or exposure to the elements
• Feet – apply to heels to help soften dry, toughened skin
• Breathe in to uplift – whenever you need a pick-me-up, inhale the tangerine scent for an instant boost

Loving Love Balm.

BATH! Beauty

While on my quest for the most fabulous oils, I discovered some seriously savory bath treats. I now have an entirely new bathing ritual for my Sunday (everyday) bath time. Don't you just love when that happens? Discovering new products is like hitting the jackpot. Okay, slight exaggeration, but only slight.

Here are my current feel, look and smell delicious bath time treats:

Start with a bath tea. I'm loving JK Soul Salts Tub Tea in Chamomile ($21.00). It combines real chamomile tea with bath salts and comes with a tea strainer. Drop the strainer into the running bath water and your on your way to bathing bliss.


Add a few splashes of a relaxing bath oil. Try Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Night Health Bedtime Bath Oil, a finely scented blend of chamomile, lavender and mandarin essential oils. As Dr. Weil put it, the oil is a "prelude to sleep." And it makes for wonderfully smooth skin.


Use a gentle exfoliator to wash the body. I'm seriously obsessed with REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish (30 pounds; British, baby)This light, beautifully rosy scented exfoliator rubs off just the right amount of dead skin while leaving the remaining epidermis revived, healthy and glowing. Not to mention smelling like the most beautiful dozen of long stem roses.
Massage-rub a body oil onto damp skin. With the above combo, I like to use Jurlique's Rose Oil. It continues my rose/ tea experience and leaves skin so soft I feel like I'm drowning in silk.


For extra moisture, finish with a firming body lotion. The only one to use is Tracie Martyn's Shaki Skin Cream ($155.00), a blend of herbal teas (again, tea and rose scents for the senses) and antioxidants. Proven to sculpt and contour legs, thighs, tummy and arms. It smells so delish and moisturizes so well, it's almost too good to be true. Seriously.

What's your favorite bath time treat?

Jurlique for Fashion Week

With fashion week frenzy looming, it's nice to know there is some solace to be found. Jurlique will be on hand at a couple of fashion shows to bring peace and harmony into the rowdy backstage environment. We could all use a little R&R.

The all-natural, biodynamic brand will be relaxing and soothing the gorgeous girlies of fashion week 2010 with a remarkably scentual approach. A Jurlique aesthetician will be behind the scenes relaxing models with soothing hand massages using the brand’s infamous Lavender hand lotion at the VPL show (a.k.a. “Visible Panty Lines” designed by acclaimed fashion stylist Victoria Barlett, available at Blue & Cream. It was a top ten finalist for the CFDA Fashion Fund award in 2007) on Saturday. Another reason to model in my next life.

Using a diffuser, Jurlique’s Harmony essence (a serene blend of Lavender Oil, Clary Sage Oil and Geranium Leaf Oil) will waft through the air creating a blissful oasis backstage.

Jurlique will also be at the Karen Walker show (I LOVE drunky-face Karen Walker of Will and Grace - different Karen, I know) diffusing their Calming essence (a soothing blend of Geranium Leaf Oil, Rosewood Oil, and Lavender) backstage.

And then there's Phillip Lim (I'm blushing.... love him!). Jurlique will provide 150 Lavender Mists to Phillip's womenswear show (It’s Phillip’s favorite product!) and for 75 Citrus Mists for front row guests of his menswear debut.

Jurlique is SO in fashion...

You can purchase the essential oils at www.jurlique.com and give your room it's own peace-of-mind makeover. You can find a diffuser by clicking here. Just add in your favorite Jurlique oil and you're good to go.

Jurlique Rose Body Collection TRIO

Here's a need-to-own collection for all of you rose fanatics out there. My absolute favorite Rose Body Lotion is being paired with a Rose Shower Gel and a mini Rose Hand Lotion.... all thanks to the fabulously organic folks over at Jurlique!

Here's what you get:
Rose Shower Gel - 300 ml
Rose Body Care Lotion (click here to read my rave review) - 300 ml
Rose Hand Cream - 15 ml

Maybe I don't have a man to buy me a dozen long stem roses, but I do have Jurlique's Rose Body Collection. Life could be worse...

This kit is also available in Lavender scent (pictured).

P.S. Jurlique has tons of great Holiday gift sets available (a hand cream trio? I think I've died and gone to heaven!!!)... click here for the full list.

PRICE TAG: $52.00

Jurlique's Biodynamic Beauty

Last week, Jurlique launched their new Biodynamic Beauty line with a party at the home of film director Brett Ratner. Brett is an old friend of mine (he actually helped me to make my movie) and he has an AMAZING house with the fancy title, The Hillhaven Lodge (it's one of those Hollywood staples that has been around for ages and has seen the likes of many a celebrity prance through the sprawling estate - there's even a disco with a DJ booth a a swirling disco ball!).

Anyway, back to the beauty. Brett hosted the Jurlique launch and the celebs flocked in droves to enjoy an afternoon BBQ and hand and foot treatments with Jurlique's Rosewater Balancing Mist and Rose Hand Cream (obvi). Guests included Salma Hayek, Rosanna Arquette, Paris Hilton, Stevie Wonder, Oliver Stone, Tracey Edmonds, Gerard Butler, Francis Ford Coppola, Scott Caan, Jared Leto, Ileana Douglas, and Claire Forlani.

Here are some pics from the event:






I, unfortunately, had to miss the fete because I was 3,000 miles away celebrating love in NYC. However, I was able to get my hands (and eyes) on the brand new Biodynamic Eye Cream.


A word (or several...) about the eye cream:
"A high-performance, deeply hydrating cream, made with the most efficacious natural actives, providing immediate and long-term improvements to the skin around the eye area. Rich in the living energy of Euphrasia and Arnica, this intensely moisturising eye cream helps reenergise tired-looking eyes. Eyes appear brighter as dark circles begin to fade and puffiness is reduced. Lines and wrinkles are softened for a smoother eye contour. "

The cream has a surprisingly light consistency. Anyone who is a fan of Jurlique can attest to the fact that their creams tend to be on the richer/ creamier side - not this one. It's lightweight and less thick - not that this is a bad thing. It still hydrates, soothes, and moisturizes. And it does awaken tired eyes with its incredible blend of all-natural ingredients. Like all Jurlique products, it smells fresh, healthy and clean and is perfect for sensitive skin. And, a little goes a long way.

My one complaint - and I have this same issue with many of their products - is in regards to the packaging. Because of the tube, excess cream easily escapes. It seems a bit of a waste because more cream comes out then is actually needed. But other then this minor package blip, I have to say, Jurlique scores yet again! Bravo to another amazing product!

PRICE TAG: $45.00 for .05 oz

I can't wait to try out the rest of the line... have you tested any of the Biodynamic products? Have a favorite? Let us know!

Jurlique does Anti-Aging

I may be biased (considering that I am OBSESSED with every Jurlique product) but I am SO excited about Jurlique's new line, Biodynamic Beauty. They just did a really amazing webinar yesterday afternoon where they explained all about this incredible anti-aging collection (it is their first ever anti-aging line).


Here are the deets (how Gossip Girl of me, right?!):

• Beneficial results comparable to hi-tech, artificial anti-aging products – but with all natural formulations.
• Collection includes a Biodynamic Beauty Serum, Eye Cream, Night Lotion and Refining Treatment.
• Products are formulated with blends of biodynamic and organic herbs and flowers combined with potent, naturally derived ingredients to soften the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations while helping to renew and strengthen skin.
• Biodynamic Beauty creates a smooth, fresh, luminous complexion without aggravating, or altering the natural balance found within your skin cells.
• Products do NOT contain any harmful toxins including Parabens, Mineral Oils, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Synthetic Emulsifiers, Artificial Colors or Fragrances.

If you love organic, all-natural products as much as I do, then you MUST try this new line. Jurlique never disappoints (and always smells so fresh and so clean, clean)!

Monday Skin Talk

I just returned from NYC where the weather is still cold and windy, thus leaving my skin dehydrated and dry. Even with oily skin (like me), it's imperative that you moisturize. One of the biggest faux pas about oily skin is that you should dry it out... NOT TRUE... the more you dry out the skin, the more oil the skin thinks it needs to produce to counterbalance the dryness. Thus, even with oily skin, make sure to keep it hydrated. Of course, if you are prone to oiliness, it's important to find a moisturizer that is oil-free and balancing.

I have become absolutely obsessed with my dry climate skin cream.... Jurlique's Balancing Day Care Cream is heaven to the face. It doesn't over moisturize and it's great for sensitive skin. You put it on and your face literally glows - like that dewy, healthy skin look.

A word (or several...) from the company:
"A light, absorbing moisturising cream infused with the living energy of daisy, chamomile and rose, and precious plant oils to minimize the visible signs of aging. Leaves the skin with a smooth, healthy-looking glow. Ideal for maintaining balance. "

I am a huge fan of Jurlique products because they use the highest quality natural ingredients... no synthetics that just clog pores and produce "pretend" results... these products continually deliver visible, healthy skin. Over and over again. My favorite aspects of the creams is how they make your skin feel - throughout the day, skin is hydrated (never dull) and smooth (never flakey).

Sometimes I mix my Jurlique Balancing Cream with a tiny dollop of Elder Cream. The Elder Cream is a brightening moisturizer that leaves your complexion luminous. Even if I'm super tired, I put this cream on and look like I've just had eight hours of sleep (and I never cease to get a compliment about how great and hydrated my skin looks when I use it!).

Both of these moisturizers sell for $40.00.

If you still want the organic, all-natural products without the high price tag, try Weleda. Their moisturizers are just as soothing and less expensive. A comparable cream to Jurlique's Balancing Cream is Weleda's Rose Cream. It's great for balancing out normal to oily skin tones and like the Jurlique cream, it's lightweight, never oily, yet super hydrating. It retails for about $25.00.

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE

I'm completely obsessed with Jurlique products. They're soothing, all-natural, and non-abrasive. They don't irritate my sensitive skin and I always walk away from the mirror with a slight glow to my sometimes dull complexion.

I was equally as enamored (okay, fine, I was OBSESSED) when I tried Jurlique's Citrus Skin Finishing Powder (previously called "Silk Dust"). It's meant to rebalance the oils in your skin (God knows my oils could use some heavy-duty rebalancing!) - to be used on a freshly-cleansed face prior to make-up. In a way, it's kind of like a primer - evening out the skin-tone and absorbing excess oils to reduce shine and give the impression of a flawless face.

I liked all of those great perks of the product. But what I enjoyed even more was the clean and natural smell - like lemon - and the lucidness of the powder - it completely absorbs into the skin creating a natural matte complexion! I sweep a dollop over my skin - alone or under make-up - with a large powder brush.... and I have yet to be disappointed by the results!

This is a MUST-HAVE PRODUCT for people who suffer from oily skin (like moi)!

Jurlique offers two other face powders (although I haven't tried either) - Lavender to rebalance dryness and Rose to maintain balance.
PRICE TAGE: $36.00 (lasts for ages)

Jurlique + Whole Foods = Happy Face!

Just discovered that they sell one of my absolute favorite skin care lines, Jurlique, at my local Whole Foods (YAY)! Also noticed that they gave their packaging a face lift... and I'm actually liking it! Before, it used to be very basic - white bottles and tubes with blue writing. Now, it's a little more girly - still basic, but prettier.

Jurlique is known for using all-natural ingredients like plants, flowers and herbs to create the most gentle and nourishing products on the market! I call it, high-end organic (Michelle Pfeiffer is a fan and she's got damn good skin)!

Their Calendula Cream ($32.00) is an oldy but goody (I wrote about it ages ago as a weekly must-have)! Sooooo soothing and it smells au natural! Calendula is used to soothe irritated skin.... it's also great as a moisturizer for sensitive skin (like me!) as it is non-greasy yet extremely hydrating. Every beauty whore should have some calendula cream in her cosmetic's drawer (or closet)!

If Jurlique's Calendula Cream is a little too pricey, try Weleda Calendula Baby Cream (meant for babies but great for adults with sensitive skin). Also available at whole foods. I ADORE this product... I'm actually using it right now as I've run out of my Jurlique and wanted to save some cash. Again, it's non-greasy and incredibly soothing! (And it's only $9.00!)

I'm also slightly obsessed with the Jurlique Daily Exfoliation Cream ($25.00). It's a non-granular exfoliating cream, rich in oats, almonds and honey to loosen and lift away dead skin cells. Again, it's very gentle and soothing.

I want to try every single product in the line, but some of it is out of my price range so I guess I'll have to add it to my never ending beauty wish list!

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE

I'm pretty psycho when it comes to my skin (I've actually had a couple of dermatologists ask me to find medical advice elsewhere...). Ever since my mother unknowingly offered me a magnifying mirror as a young child (the kind that lights up and magnifies your pores to the size of small craters...), I've been a picker. I know, it's not a good look. But the smallest imperfection leaves me obsessive and totally insane. I don't try many different face products... in fact, up until recently, I didn't even use face cream (always eye cream, however).

But then a friend told me about Jurlique's Calendula Cream (she hyped it by saying that Michelle Pfeiffer (right) swears by the products... and hey, lets be honest here, Michelle has fab skin!) and I've been hooked. The Australian based company uses all natural, fragrance free ingredients. It's ideal for sensitive skin types (like mine). The calendula cream can be used as a face moisturizer or a cream for any chapped area of your body. It smells divine and works like a dream - never oily or greasy, always soothing and fresh leaving your skin glowing like a light bulb!
A word (or several...) from the company:
Calendula Cream is a powerful moisturiser for any skin type. Contains a high percentage of Calendula extract, which soothes and calms the skin. Calendula Cream is an excellent moisturiser for chapped or sun exposed skin.
Hey, if it's good enough for Michelle Pfeiffer, it's good enough for us!
Try it and let us know your thoughts!!!