Categories
Beauty Featured

Tata Harper: The Green-Beauty Goddess Ups Her Game for Her Namesake Skincare Line

Scouting the world, Tata Harper is always striving to improve her eponymous skincare line and beautify her loyalists to the max, naturally, with nontoxic, hyper-potent, and uncompromising ingredients.

Photo Courtesy of Tata Harper Skincare

First came the “essence,” which launched early in the new year. “Essences are supposed to be penetrating enhancers to moisturize your skin, and this formulation has 5 to 250 kilodaltons of molecular weight! That is really small, so that it can get to the deepest layers of your skin,” Tata Harper shares with much pride. “And it helps to reduce redness and even reduces darkening spots. This composition is 100 percent.” She is speaking of her beloved Hydrating Floral Essence, a true hydrating booster with dual-weight hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration but is super-lightweight with natural scents that calm your mind and spirit within seconds. Combined with nature’s goodies like rose, lavender, and neroli, hydrosols provide a smoothing effect, while the anti-oxidant floral blend helps to fight free radicals, preparing your skin for the next step in care.

Photo Courtesy of Tata Harper Skincare

That brings us to the Hydrating Floral Mask, a multi-hyaluronic treatment that has proven to improve hydration by 46 percent, even after 24 hours of application, and provide a 100 percent decrease in redness for the flushed, rosacea-prone skin type. This formulation was one-and-a-half years in the making, and it houses 2,000 kilodaltons, drenching every layer of your skin, from sub-dermis to fascial layer, to plump up the skin. “It’s like a creamy gel and has amazing redness reduction. Do a thin layer, but if you’d like to go to sleep with it at night, do a thicker layer. Moreover, to remove, don’t wash it off. Use the essence, which turns the mask into a milky texture, which you can tissue off to keep all the goodness on your skin,” Harper explains.

Comprising ingredients from 25 countries, this is indeed global technology. “Ingredients from 25 countries and 43 high-performing actives, that’s intense!” So why this mask now? “We didn’t have a mask for moisture. I think that masks, the way I see it, are medicine-cabinet items. One day you’re dull, you need a glow. Another day you’re congested and you need purification. Another day you’re blemish-full and breaking out, you need purifying. I have all that in the line, but I didn’t have one for moisture.” But the real reason Harper hadn’t made one way sooner is that she was never satisfied with the technology in existing moisturizers. But now, she says, “hydration technology in the last three years in the natural spaces has exploded. The sizes of hyaluronic acids and the options on barriers, as in how to keep things inside of your skin, have advanced so much!” 

Photo Courtesy of Tata Harper Skincare

Utilizing advanced applied science from England, Germany, and Israel, and with hyaluronic acid extracted via fermentation technology from tremella mushrooms from the Czech Republic, this reformulated magic mask, launched only a couple of months ago, has ten molecular grades of hyaluronic acid, and drenches the deepest layer of the skin. With a floral blend derived from the Australian Coastline, which addresses skin’s redness, and rich vitamins and minerals like eskolaite, squalene, and vitamin F, it has already become a classic. Topping off the lineup launching at the end of May is the Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer. Harper calls it a “weightless daily hydrator,” and that is an undeniable fact. It’s made with all of the advanced hyaluronic-acid technology mentioned earlier and has the appropriate gel-water technology powered by chia-seed water from the U.S.A. and marsh samphire from France. What’s more, it incorporates tremella-mushroom technology (which expands two times in weight in water) and even banana flower from Thailand. This powerful combination provides clinically proven redness reduction, plumping and smoothing, and protective antioxidants. Can you say, “Uncompromised power of non-toxic weightless hydration?” Naturally.

Categories
Beauty Featured

What I Learned About My Skincare Routine from Heyday

I walked by Heyday many times before I even knew what it was. I knew it had to do with beauty, but I had no idea it was an oasis from the bustling pace of the streets outside. Heyday aims to personalize skincare with customized facials and product recommendations. They have a team of over one hundred Skin Therapists that want to make facials accessible and part of New Yorkers’ everyday routine.

After talking with my esthetician about my skin goals I laid back and relaxed. Product after product smelled amazing, and I could not resist picking up a few after my treatment! Turns out, face wash and moisturizer isn’t enough. I walked out with a new, four-step skincare plan and an outline anyone can follow.

1. Cleanser

Yes, I did ask if cleanser was the same thing as face wash. It is. This Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil from One Love smells like the papaya and pineapple extracts it contains, and I’m obsessed. Heyday starts most of its facials with this product and for good reason. It’s great on its own or in a two-step cleansing process with your favorite face wash to keep blackheads away. It can even be used alone as a makeup remover, no rinsing needed. Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil & Makeup Remover, $42.

2. Exfoliant

We’ve already written about how much we love Naturopathica products, and this Oat Cleansing Facial Polish is no exception. It is a super gentle exfoliant, which I will be using on my sensitive skin twice a week, that is suited for everyday use for some people. It can also be used as a face mask. This multitasker definitely deserves a spot on your shelf! Oat Cleansing Facial Polish, $28.

3. Toner

I did not know what toner was. At all. But apparently it’s something I need! This Lavender Honey Balancing Mist helps rehydrate and rebalance your skin throughout the day. They honey acts as a natural antiseptic to clean your skin of bacteria from the subway, your hands. and even your phone. It feels refreshing and smells great, plus you can use it throughout the day for moisture and makeup enhancement. Lavender Honey Balancing Mist, $32.

4. Moisturizer

IMAGE Skincare offers an oil-free moisturizer with SPF 50 that protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Moisturizer and sunscreen are two of the most important things in your skincare routine, and this two-in-one feels great and doesn’t leave a white cast like many sunscreens do. It also serves as a great primer for your daily makeup. Prevention+ SPF 50 Daily Ultimate Protection Moisturizer, $39.

Heyday has locations in NoHo, Nomad, Tribeca, the Upper West Side, the Upper East Side, and even LA so a fabulous facial is never far away!

Categories
Beauty Featured NYC

Prep for Another Notorious New York City Summer with These Skin Care Tips

Spring is upon us, and before we know it we’ll be getting beaten into submission by the character-building NYC summer, and our skin will be at risk. Dryness, sunburn, flaking, irritation – a New York City summer can bring all of these and more if you don’t switch up your skin care regimen. Here are four quick tips to keep your skin glowing this summer:

skin care flower

1. Exfoliation

Dead skin, oil and several other unwanted compounds can pile up on our skin if we let them. To get rid of these nasty inhabitants, scrub them away with an effective exfoliator. Whether you do it yourself or get a comprehensive exfoliation treatment like the Peach Pit and Baby’s Bottom skin care treatments at Downtown New York City’s own Haven Spa, an effective exfoliation will scrub away any unpleasant top layers present on your skin to leave it soft and smooth.

2. Hydration

Dry skin can be painful, irritating and itchy, and sometimes knocking back our doctor-recommended eight glasses of water per day isn’t enough. Keep your skin moisturized to fight off dryness and irritation, and don’t be afraid of being heavy-handed when applying – your skin will thank you.

skin care sunscreen

3. Sunscreen

Just because you’re not being burnt to a crisp doesn’t mean the sun isn’t damaging your skin. Either choosing a moisturizer with a moderate SPF, or simply covering up with a layer of sunscreen before you head out will help keep the harmful effects of UV at bay.

4. Nutrition

We tend to think of our skin as something only managed with creams and treatments that are directly applied, while what we eat actually plays a huge part in our skin’s health. Take care that you’re getting enough Zinc, Vitamin A and Vitamin C this spring to get your skin ready for another New York City summer.

For more skin care tips, check out our Beauty Cabinet. 

Categories
Featured

Compact Care For Men

Each season comes with its own set of skincare woes. Winter is famously known for windy weather and frigid temperatures. Plus a confusing mix of one day’s unseasonable warmth and the next day’s snow.

The answer to this conundrum is simple. Keep your grooming kit stocked with a few key products to fix you up in no time. Whether you’re throwing them in a tote for a quick getaway, or stocking your bathroom cabinet, try choosing natural, multi-purpose products to keep it light and cover the basics. A fresh, clean smell, neat hair, a bright smile and an easy cleansing routine to keep your skin clear and moisturized.

 

Rinse, moisturize, repeat

Photo: Courtesy of Clarisonic

 

Cleanse and moisturize. There’s no way around it. No matter if it’s stress, sweat or the weather causing your skin troubles, establishing a routine of cleansing and moisturizing will go a long way. Opt for a moisturizer with SPF during the day, and you can skip the sunscreen.

 

Feeling fresh

Photo: Courtesy of bogobrush

Don’t forget to apply deodorant, and give your teeth a quick sweep—it might sound too simple, but just these two tasks will make you feel fresher in no time. Take advantage of the many natural products on the shelves—choose a deodorant without parabens to avoid irritated skin, and try out a toothpaste that uses the benefits of virgin coconut oil and bamboo powder for a brighter, natural smile.

 

Locks: locked and loaded

Photo: Courtesy of R+Co

Come wind, rain or shine, will your hair stand the test? This dry shampoo paste is one part dry shampoo, one part styling paste, and it adds texture and hold while also absorbing oil. It’s perfect to bring along or use for a lazy morning.

This story originally appeared in the 2017 Art Issue of Downtown Magazine 

Featured photo by Aranka Israni

Categories
Uncategorized

10 Products For Your Summer Beauty Bag

As temperatures creep towards the high 80s — and your make-up continues to melt off — invest in high-quality beauty products that will not only provide a fresh summer glow, but protect your skin and hair as well.

The beauty product jungle can be a challenge; should you go for a cleanser and a cream? Should you try a new choice or stick to trusted brands, guaranteed to give you good results?

We’ve done some digging and these are Downtown’s top 10 products that any beauty fanatic would be proud to have in her make-up bag.

Glossier Invisible Shield SPF 35

SPF is not an option but a necessity. Just to make sure you’re listening, we repeat, SPF is not an option. The clever people at Glossier agree and present the Invisible Shield SPF 35. The clear watergel formula will quickly absorb into your skin and is also designed to keep it clear of the city’s polluted air. It’s a win-win.


Photo courtesy of Glossier

Price: $34.00

MŪN Argan Pure Argan Oil

This is your 3-in-1; the Argan Pure Argan Oil is a softening treatment that you can use on your skin, nail cuticles and hair. Filled with vitamin E, antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids, the oil will give a much-needed boost during dry summer months. When using the the product in your hair, apply a small amount to the ends only, to avoid a ‘greasy scalp’ look.

Photo courtesy of MŪN

Price: $70.00

Savannah Bee Charcoal, Propolis and Volcanic Ash Cleanser

Activated charcoal has proven incredibly effective in removing toxins — it draws them out, which is exactly what you want in a humid city like NYC. Meanwhile, the added benefit of propolis and volcanic ash in this cleanser will gently exfoliate and hydrate and is perfect for keeping your skin clean this summer.

Photo courtesy of Savannah Bee

Price: $12.99

Urban Decay Travel Size Perversion Mascara

Perfect for mini-holidays, when you just want to bring your travel sized vanity bag. According to Urban Decay, the lash volumizing product is “so intense you might need a safe word, Perversion glides on and gets you sexy in one stroke.” Talk about making a lady blush…

Photo courtesy of  Urban Decay

Price: $10.00

SHOW Beauty Repair Treatment Mask

Pump up your locks with some quinoa protein. The Repair Treatment Mask, which also contains hydrolyzed pea, pro vitamin B5, caviar and white truffles(!), is the stuff of hair-related dreams. This luxurious treatment nourishes, strengthens and conditions dull strands and leave your hair soft and full of life.

Photo courtesy of  SHOW Beauty

Prices range depending on retailer.

Smith & Cult Illumify Starlings Highlighter

This is the second venture by the founders of Hard Candy make-up, Dineh Mohajer and Jeanne Chavez. The dynamic duo are beauty veterans with an eye for creating cosmetics that others envy; beauty with a dash of punk attitude and a dazzle of hipster. The Starlings Highlighter in Gilded Nude will become your new secret weapon.

Price:  $36.00

Laura Mercier Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation

The base to your daily beauty routine — foundation! The Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation comes in 20 different shades and has a smooth, light consistency. Containing micro-fine radiant pearl Mica to even out your skin tone, this foundation sits, fits and looks just right For best results, apply with a make-up sponge or softly dab on with your fingertips.


Photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Price: $48.00

Marc Jacobs Velvet Reality Set

Why buy one, when you can get three? The limited edition set was inspired by Marc Jacobs’ catwalk creations and includes a pop eye stick shadow in a shimmering icy grape shade, a waterproof gel eye crayon in cool blue and the velvet noir major volume mascara. If that’s not enough to win you over, the quirky make-up bag designed by British illustrator, Julie Verhoeven, will.

Photo courtesy of Marc Jacobs Beauty

Price: $49.00

Vita Liberata Ten Minute Tan

Stuck in the office all summer with no chance for a tan? And skin too fair to turn anything but a shade of pink when you finally have a moment to pop out? Self-tanning might be your knight in shining armor. This one from Vita Liberata is fast-acting and odor with vitamin C and Rosehip oil. But remember, always use a tanning mitt when applying to your skin for an even application.

Photo courtesy of Vita Liberata

Price: $39.00

Patchology Lip Renewal FlashPatch® 5 Minute Hydrogels

The trademarked lip treatment with its HydraSurge5™ Moisture System is a wonder for your lips. The product will plump, moisturize and perfect your pout, and we love this treatment. It’s easy to use, works fast and is well worth its price point.


Photo courtesy of Patchology

Price: $50.00

Categories
Beauty Fashion

5 Steps to Perfect Your Summer Makeup

PerfectMakeup.jpg

Summer is the season of sunshine, seasides and… sweat. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a comprehensive 5-step guide for you to achieve a flawless summer look that’ll last all day long!

1.Prep: You wouldn’t paint a surface without a good primer, so why would you put makeup on a bare face? Urban Decay’s B6 Vitamin-Infused Complexion Prep Spray will give your skin that all-important wake-up call, plus a glow that’ll make you even more stoked for the sun. Urban Decay has hit the bull’s-eye once again, and will no doubt send you darting towards your ideal summer look. Apply this spray after cleansing your face, and voila, you’re primed for the next step…

2. Moisturize: We all know that the sun can be the devil for dry skin, but thankfully we are on hand to introduce you to your moisturizing god, Tatcha Moisture Rich Silk Cream. The wonderful people at Tatcha have formulized a revolutionary moisturizing cream that’ll give your skin the va-va-voom it’s been lacking. For silky smooth skin, apply the cream in circular motions to the face, massaging into those pesky dry spots.

3. Conceal: Now that your skin is perfectly primed, it’s time for your makeup base. Finding a foundation that’ll match your skin tone and type and last all day can be a tiring task for anyone. We think we’ve struck gold with our fabulous find; Pro-Finish Multi-Use Powder Foundation by Makeup Forever lives up to it’s name.

4. Highlight: For glowing, bronzed, and blushed skin, use the fabulous Naked Flushed Palette from Urban Decay. This all-in-one silky bronzer, highlighter, and blush can be blended or used individually for that perfectly radiant summer look.

5. Finishing Touch: Now that your makeup looks amazing, help keep it that way with Tarte’s Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder. This silky translucent powder holds makeup in place all day long all while diffusing imperfections.

-Elizabeth Sutherland and Rachael Sprague