Spring Beauty Buys

I think we can all agree that it was a particularly brutal winter – and that it’s finally looking like spring! While I still have to get through finals (just two more weeks!) before I can really start enjoying it, I’ve been making a serious effort to get my skin back in shape for spring and summer.

For me, this means exfoliating (I use my Clarisonic every night), moisturizing (Dr. Dennis Gross for face, Amlactin for body), toning and treating acne (loving all Mario Badescu products lately), and using serums to boost brightness and get rid of any dark spots that accumulated over the past few months (cold weather crazy stress = skin disaster). Perricone MD’s Vitamin C Ester serum has been an absolute necessity… the ultra-brightening properties together with anti-agers have seriously brought my skin back to life. I use it every morning (and would also recommend their Blue Plasma for evenings), then try to keep it simple with tinted moisturizer, a bit of blush, winged eyeliner, natural nails, and a great lip balm.

Mario Badescu drying cream / Perricone MD serum / NARS blush / Dior nail glow
Mario Badescu toner / Hourglass eyeliner / Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer
Murad lightening gel / Dr. Dennis Gross moisturizer / Fresh Sugar lip treatment
Amlactin body lotion / St. Tropez self tan bronzing lotion

In the DC area? Mark your calendars for this Saturday, April 26th from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Shops at Wisconsin Place (5310 Western Avenue, Chevy Chase, Maryland) are hosting an Earth Day Celebration on the outdoor patio to benefit the locally based non-profit organization, EarthShare. In addition to local food offerings, live entertainment, and raffles, a Josie Maran rep will be on hand to launch the new Josie Maran Model Citizen collection and provide beauty consultations! If you’re looking for more recommendations, they are sure to have them!