June 21, 2019
The Glossier eye cream that ticks all the boxes, extra antioxidant protection from Avene and the most fun in-shower exfoliation ever.
An eye cream that works without breaking the bank
I’m super-lucky that pricey skincare products are often sent my way to review. Although I’d never turn down a cream or lotion beyond my personal budget, I’m also a firm believer that it’s not always necessary to drop a lot of cash to get what your skin needs. At the top of the list of products I won’t spend a ton on is eye cream, simply because there are so many affordable options that (I believe) work just as well as their prestige counterparts.
It just so happened that I needed to replenish my eye cream stash shortly after Glossier’s Bubblewrap Eye + Lip Plumping Cream launched, so as with most other new products from this brand, I ordered one. I’ve been using it for about a month and I would definitely buy it again. I love the metal pump that delivers the perfect dose (without having to dip my fingers in a jar) and the formula is lightweight enough to absorb quickly and not cause pilling when I speed through my morning skincare routine. Once I’ve applied it around my eyes, I pat the leftover on and around my lips, which is a nice added bonus.
For the record, it contains hyaluronic acid, squalene and avocado oil for hydration plus anti-aging peptides and blueberry-derived antioxidants—and at $26 you can save some money for other things.
The piece(s) your summer skincare routine is missing
As we all know, sunscreen is a top skincare priority for summer, and hopefully you’ve stepped up your SPF game. Don’t hate me for saying this—but once your sun protection is sorted out, it’s a good idea to amp up your antioxidant arsenal as well. Although sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV rays, some products don’t do anything to shield your skin from free radicals, which can be just as damaging over time.
The French pharmacy favorite Avène is here to help with three new antioxidant-rich products that help fend off free radicals while giving your skin a radiance boost. A great option for kicking your environmental protection up a notch is the A-OXitive Antioxidant Defense Serum. Featuring powerful skincare technology that includes a super-stable vitamin C, supercharged version of vitamin E and an exclusive molecule that helps these antioxidants work even better—you also get protection for your precious collagen as well as brighter skin over time and instant soothing courtesy of Avène Thermal Spring Water.
If you’d like a bit of extra lightweight moisture along with your antioxidant protection, the A-OXitive Antioxidant Water-Cream serves up the hydration your skin is looking for, plus mother-of-pearl for an instant illuminating glow. And in the event you get a little too much sun or treat yourself to a chemical peel, IPL or another in-office treatment, the A-OXitive SOS Antioxidant Sheet Mask comes to the rescue. (I used it last week when I was in the Bahamas and it made my skin look and feel so good, especially after spending the day on the beach!)
Sunscreen and topical antioxidants are like peanut butter and jelly (minus the potential allergy threat) and once you have these two essential skincare products you should be all set for summer—but I can’t promise this will be my last skin-protection suggestion for the season.
Still need to get a Father's Day gift?
It’s hard to believe it’s already mid-June, which means it’s time to celebrate the dads in our lives. I don’t know about you, but my husband is impossible to shop for. Beyond the fact that he never actually wants anything specific, my gift-giving efforts generally result in a return about 50 percent of the time. In the past, presents that combine humor and practicality have yielded a higher success rate, and this year’s pick is Dollar Shave Club’s DadBod Gift Set.
All joking aside, this set has all of Dad’s head-to-toe skincare needs covered. He gets a razor handle, a four-pack of cartridges, shave butter, post-shave cream, hand cream, toothpaste, face/body wash, 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner, two packs of body/butt wipes and deodorant. And if you order today, it’s guaranteed to arrive by Father’s Day—and you can cross another thing off your list. (Just don’t forget to pick up a card!)
P.S. If you haven’t seen the hysterical promo for it, enjoy!
Why you need to check out Club Pilates' new Mizner location
It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with Pilates, and that I went from hardly ever working out to taking a class (or two) six days a week. I attribute this drastic change to a few factors… First, I decided that it was time to take better care of myself. Second, I put my classes in my iCal and treat them as I would a conference call or meeting—and that time is blocked out (with the exception of urgent work matters or important family obligations). But perhaps the biggest motivator is Club Pilates itself, because I actually want to go there every day. I get to see familiar faces, tune everything else out for 50 minutes and do something that makes my body feel (and look) its best!
When I found out Club Pilates was opening their second Boca location near Mizner Park, I was more than happy to help spread the word. If you’re Pilates-curious and want to see what it’s all about, mark your calendar for June 20-23, because you won’t want to miss the opening festivities!
COMPLIMENTARY INTRO CLASSES: Click here to schedule!
A weekend-long raffle that includes products and services from our opening weekend partners! Attend an intro class to be automatically entered, and you can get extra entries by bringing a friend or purchasing a Club Pilates membership.
Pop-up tastings with 3Natives, Raw Juce, The Poke Company and Barrel of Monks
Complimentary services courtesy of Dr. Lisa Huffman of Yamato Chiropractic, Fabletics, Dirty Blonde Salon, Eden Day Spa and Body20
Special offers like $0 enrollment along with 20% off unlimited memberships and 8-class packs
For more info, call 561.826.4284 or email miznerblvd@clubpilates.com.
I understand that some of you might be wondering if Pilates is right for you, or as one of my friends asked, “Will I die?” (The answer is definitely, “No, you will not die.”) So, I sat down (and did a one-on-one mini workout) with comprehensive certified Pilates instructor Lisa Berger—who happens to be one of my favorite people in the whole world and has seen my physical and mental transformation over the past 18 months. (But more on that later.)
Me: What are the main principles of Pilates?
LB: Pilates is all about controlled movement initiated from the core. By using stabilization techniques, isolating specific muscles and engaging multiple muscle groups, Pilates builds strength and flexibility safely and effectively. Pilates promotes long, lean muscles, and because the movements are more about ‘flow’ than momentum-based bursts, regular practice yields muscle definition without unwanted ‘bulk.”
“Hug a Tree.”
Me: Who is Pilates ideal for?
LB: Pilates is ideal for everybody! It’s great for young people who want to increase their strength, as well as older people who are experiencing degenerative issues because it’s a safe, controlled way of moving. Its emphasis on stability and balance can also help enhance your performance while doing other sports and activities. If you’re a golfer or tennis player, Pilates can help protect your lower back while twisting at the waist. If you’re a runner, Pilates helps strengthen your supporting leg muscles while improving your stamina and flexibility.
The chair is my favorite! (And I think it’s time to schedule a color appointment.)
Me: What if you have injuries?
LB: Pilates is safe for anyone with neck, back, shoulder, knee or any other injuries or issues because every exercise can be modified. In fact, many physical therapy clinics offer or recommend Pilates for their patients because of how safe and controlled the movements are.
Nothing feels better than a good “Bridge.” And can we discuss Lisa’s arms?
Me: What’s the biggest misconception about Pilates?
LB: One of the main misconceptions about Pilates is that it’s just for women. When I train men, they quickly realize how challenging it can be to move with control—and without the momentum associated with lifting heavy weights. Another big assumption about Pilates is that it’s not challenging. It only looks easy because the movements are slow and controlled. I equate Pilates to dance (and there are actually many parallels). Dancers make it look so graceful and beautiful, but it takes more strength than you can imagine to make it look that easy.
Every damn day!
Me: What do you say to people who may be intimidated by the Reformer?
LB: Starting any new form of exercise or stepping onto any new piece of equipment comes along with a little fear. The more you work on the Reformer, the more you understand how the different levels of tension on the springs affect your workout. Once you see the changes in your body and begin to feel more balanced, you realize there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Me: What makes Club Pilates different from other studios?
LB: Club Pilates is committed to creating a supportive environment. We’re more than friends, we’re family. We focus on encouragement—there’s no place for competition here. It’s also unique that we incorporate several types of equipment beyond the traditional Reformer while staying true to the principles of stabilization and core control. We also use the springboard, Pilates chair, TRX exercises, the Bosu ball, stretch bands, hand weights and mat work—often all in one class. As you progress through the levels, more equipment is incorporated so clients can challenge themselves in different ways.
Me: How do you recommend getting started?
LB: Just take the leap with one class and see if it’s something that you enjoy! Every exercise isn’t for everyone, but you won’t know if Pilates is for you unless you try.
Me: What changes have you seen in me since I joined Club Pilates 18 months ago?
LB: Beyond drastic improvement in your form, range of motion, core strength and stamina, I see you pushing yourself further and further. You’re fearless and believe you can accomplish anything I throw at you!
Because you deserve a sweet in-shower treat
Skincare doesn’t always have to be goal-oriented, and sometimes it’s fun to treat yourself that will just make you (and your skin) feel good. Bath and body products are the perfect way to inject a bit of whimsy into your otherwise “serious” skincare regimen, and that’s where Joon x Moon’s Exfoliating & Cleansing Sugar Cubes come in.
These single-serving squares feature sugar crystals to slough away dull, dry skin plus hydrating shea butter that might even help you skip the post-shower body moisturizer. I’m digging these because I have a thing with dipping my wet, drippy fingers into a tub of body scrub—and the scents are divine. The Grapefruit version is fantastic for a little extra get-up-and-go in the morning, while the Lavender cubes are a relaxing way to end the day. (The Blue Raspberry is a delicious treat any time of day.)
Available exclusively at Target.com, this is a wallet-friendly indulgence that should be added to your cart ASAP!