My Favorite Cleanser of All Time

The glow is real and I am very excited to feature this as the first product profile.

In a world where we're consistently conditioned to believe that higher prices equate to superior quality, this is a phenomenal cleanser that defies all expectations. Yes, Humanrace Rice Powder cleanser is simple, but I assure you, the results are phenomenal. For thousands of years, rice powder has been revered as a skin purifier in Asian skincare traditions. This formulation boasts one of the highest quality rice powders available on the market, and surprisingly, it's offered at a reasonable price point compared to other rice-based powders. Unlike its counterparts, it delivers stunning results for the skin immediately and long-term with each use.  This formulation excels at multitasking; it brightens the skin, evens out tone, and gently exfoliates without causing microtears, thanks to its Kaolin Clay composition that beautifully draws out impurities. Moreover, the inclusion of geranium, sugar, maple, and bilberry extracts aids in gentle skin resurfacing, while snow mushroom extract ensures the skin barrier remains moisturized and intact.

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A Compelling Case For The $640 Face Cream

Sisley’s L’Intégral Anti-Age

It is outrageous how many skincare products promise to deliver the sun, the stars, and the moon to your complexion—when in reality, they are merely resting on their laurels: name brand, celebrity ambassadors, etc., with no high-quality actives or knowledge of which ingredients actually work in skincare.

As the saying goes, it can be expensive to be cheap and cheap to be expensive—so please know that when I recommend a pricey face cream, I’ve tested it (and other products like it) for weeks and I sincerely mean it’s worth every penny. 

 Sisleya’s Anti-Aging face cream is one of those products that bears a hefty tag, but more than  makes up for its cost in efficacy. This cream delivers the firmest, most glowy and even-toned skin you’ve likely seen in years—just one use will give you the glow of someone who just had the best sex of their life for hours. It’s that good. 

 I’ve been using Sisley products since my late teens, and when it comes to genius plant botanical formulations, they are on the cutting edge—with revolutionary formulations that give instant results (and even more in the long run). The Anti-Aging Integral cream harnesses the scientific power of botanicals, with the active plant power of Lady’s Mantle—a potent skin antioxidant—as well as Persian acadia, which is superb for skin regeneration. I can only assure you that unless you are a hyena with some severe acne problem, you will see beautiful results. 

You’ll find yourself cherishing every drop inside this potent jar, and taking it along on all your vacations. Added note: Please remember that for optimal results - your skincare needs to be rotated every few months.

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The Red Lipstick that Rivals My Very Chic All-time Favorite

I hate word “dupe." It’s a word that has been overused for far too long in the overmarketed beauty world. So, in this instance, I want to share a fabulous replica or a delightful counterpart if you will to my cherished Dior #999 Forever Rouge

REVLON’s Color Stay Matte Lipstick Crayon in Ruffled Feathers.

Several months ago, en route to NYC, and in a moment of sheer absentmindedness, I leave my entire makeup arsenal on the plane. Cue frantic searching in the heart of midtown for a quick fix before an important event the next day. Amidst the aisles of a drugstore, with makeup samples scattered like confetti, I found solace in the Revlon section. And there, amidst the chaos, lies a gem: the REVLON ColorStay Matte Lipstick Crayon. Let me tell you about this shade called Ruffled Feathers—it's like stumbling upon a hidden treasure that is delightfully inexpensive. A rich, deep hue with a hint of red-orange allure that rivals my beloved #999. But it's not just the color that won me over; it's the hydration and staying power that truly stole the show. With its matte finish and cleverly angled tip, it glides on effortlessly, no liner necessary.  I may forever be loyal to my #999, but Ruffled Feathers has carved out a special place in my heart—and my makeup bag. It's become my go-to for videos, photoshoots, or simply when I want that extra pop of color without the hassle of constant touch-ups. Trust me, this one doesn't disappoint.

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The Must-Have Beauty Tool You Need

Ulike Air 3 Laser Hair Removal

As an Iranian-born woman, certain characteristics define us - spirited emotion, a deep affection for family, and a penchant for saffron. However, excessive body hair? That's one thing I'm more than happy to pass on, thank you very much. I prefer smooth skin and no hair anywhere other than my head and eyebrows. As a beauty editor, I often receive questions about waxing or hair depilatory creams, which frustrates me. Not at the asker, but because more people don't incorporate a high-quality laser hair removal tool, such as my absolute favorite the Ulike Hair Removal device into their routine. It should be a universal must-have in every woman's beauty arsenal from the age of 18. I say this with sincerity, I believe if this tool had been available earlier, I could have been far more confident and perhaps lost my virginity earlier. Unlike my laser hair removal experiences in 2001, where each zap felt like medieval electric shock therapy, this tool utilizes sapphire cooling technology, making the process virtually painless. Moreover, it's safe for sensitive areas and won't leave you scarred or pigmented like those outdated laser treatments. Trust me, once you have this device in your hands, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. And did I mention you can enjoy intimacy whenever you want? Just don’t tell your husband.

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The Ultimate Face Primer

As Endorsed by the Elegance of Chic French Women Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

In 2024, we’ve yet to emulate the effortlessly chic presence that French women exude. You can call it the French Paradox, where these gorgeous French connoisseurs of style, indulge in butter, endless bottles of Chateau Margaux and afternoon delights, but I also know for a fact that so many of them rely on a beauty product I am very enamored with. Let me just say that the highly prized Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Moisturizing Face Primer is worth its weight in gold. It is that the most perfect makeup primer and it is flawless in hydration while keeping your makeup lasting well into the night.

 The makeup and skincare pros seem to agree with my sentiments as I’ve also been keen to notice is a permanent beauty staple the kits of major makeup artists worldwide - even when they're contractually bound to other brands, they still turn to this miraculous primer for flawless finish. I urge you to experience this wonderful face cream, apply it before makeup for a stunning, creamy or even as my French friends like to additionally use it also as their cleansing milk, shaving cream and after suncare lotion too.

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The Clean Beauty Body Oil That Gives Velvet Skin Instantly

OSEA Malibu’s Undaria Algae Body Oil 

In my approach to skin care, I've found that maintaining the vitality of skin below the neck is surprisingly simple with a consistent routine. It begins of course with the basics, a healthy diet rich in Vitamin E, careful sun exposure, and exercising regularly to preserve muscle tone and firmness that in turn support great firm skin.

Next, your skin needs the right amount of exfoliation. I recommend a balanced approach, steering clear of excessive daily brushing that can strip away essential oils. I found myself overwhelmed during the pandemic with the trend of daily brushing, which proved counterproductive to skin health in my opinion as it robs your skin of essential oils if done excessively. Periodically indulging in a luxurious Korean body scrub is excellent and also rejuvenates the skin, and then of course last and not least, incorporating a clean and efficacious body oil adds for moisture and nourishment is for me far superior than using a body butter or cream. I favor body oils for their superior absorption and holistic benefits compared to body lotions. I see the results on my skin and really know what gives the optimal results. Among the plethora I've experimented with, OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil stands out as my absolute favorite pick. After showering, while my skin is still slightly damp, I generously apply this delicately formulated, clean beauty oil. Its lightweight consistency effortlessly seeps into the skin, leaving behind a trail of revitalization. Enriched with White Lupin flower, this marvel of a product ensures the skin remains supple and resilient. Noteworthy is the brand’s commitment to sustainability; packaged in eco-conscious glass, this oil encapsulates the essence of nature's goodness. Embrace a moment of tranquility post-shower, reveling in the pleasure of this beloved product that has brought me immense joy, and I trust will do the same for you.

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The Best Beauty Balm For Your Skin

The Blue Cocoon by May Lindstrom

An exceptional moisturizing balm that I rely on during hot summers and harsh winters, when my skin faces extreme weather conditions. I slather it on my face every winter night after a day on the slopes or in my hotel room after a beach or boat day when my skin has has endured the inescapable scorching summer heat. This balm is my constant go-to remedy. Formulated with the highest grade of responsibly sourced Blue Tansy, one of nature's most potent antioxidant flower botanicals, it soothes, calms, and repairs my skin. The balm's decadent texture effortlessly melts into the skin, delivering nourishment without any heaviness. It bears repeating that despite protective measures we take such as hats, sunscreen, ski goggles, or face masks, harsh weather conditions, including even ocean reflections, can still leave the skin parched and in need of replenishment.

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The Best Brush For Your At-Home Blowout

Fabulous hair is paramount, right?

I firmly believe that even with the most stunning dress or flawless makeup, if your hair is not on point, your overall appearance suffers.  So, for those of you who blow your own hair out in between salon visits, you know that this at-home task requires several essential elements and tools. Naturally, every blow out aficionado knows that conditioners and heat protectants are crucial, as is the blow dryer itself. However, one often underestimated component is having a well-crafted boar bristle brush. I swear by the MB4 brush from Ibiza. It's a staple in salons worldwide and I see it everywhere from St. Tropez to San Moritz. Thanks to its superior grip—ideal for medium to long hair—and it is easy to grip cork handle, this brush is light and excellent at maneuvering, reaching all angles of the back of the hair too. Boar bristles are unmatched for hair control, and I personally feel from experience that, unless wielded by professionals, round metal brushes can sometimes risk singeing the hair. Lastly, don’t forget that tension is also instrumental to achieving smooth perfection and the grip is fab with this brush.

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The Dream Cream

Revision’s Nectifirm Fights Crepiness, Does Not Disappoint 

The neck is one of the first places on the body to show signs of aging. Why? Because our skin is thinner in this area, there is less muscle support, collagen, and fat—and frankly, more than in decades past, we are constantly glancing up and down at our phones. Sun damage is yet another problem: you don’t wear a hat for your neck, do you? And it doesn’t make sense to put on a turtleneck in spring and summer, right?

To help your neck look its firmest and softest, often acupuncture in the areas where you hold tension in your jaw can provide visible results. Sleeping on your back can also help, as well as using silk pillowcases, which can soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, along with a host of other benefits. 

Don’t forget about a key step when it comes to keeping your neck smooth: using a topical like a hydrating neck cream. I have found Revision’s Nectifirm neck cream is fantastic when it comes to firming and preventing sagging. It contains lingonberry extract (known for its potently antioxidant properties) which helps maintain elasticity. 

Side note: Once a week or before a special event, I also like to scrub my skin with a light physical exfoliant before I apply the neck cream. I find it absorbs better. (I have to point out that I typically avoid over-exfoliating, as it can weaken the skin and make it more susceptible to sun damage.) Again, it bears repeating—rotate this every few months with another neck cream product. I switch it out with SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R-Neck Repair Cream, which is also fabulous. 

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Revision’s Nectifirm Neck Cream
SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R-Neck Repair Cream

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Always Keep This Heat Protectant Spray on Hand for At-Home Blowouts

Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray

“Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels,” Kate Moss once said. But I am convinced that she never experienced the joy of a smooth, sexy, long-lasting blowout—because that to me is just as satisfying as fitting into a tight LBD. Sleek and controlled hair is a confidence booster, in my opinion—and there's nothing quite like the feeling of a professional blowout by your favorite stylist, is there?

But for those of us who don’t have the luxury of making professional salon visits after every shampoo, we've learned to be savvy and invest in exceptional products and tools. Enter the new Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray. Now, pay attention: I don't use this spray on my hair immediately after showering as a heat protectant. Instead, I reserve it for the next day, or even the day after, when my hair is dry and I'm ready to go over my blowout to keep it smooth and in place again. You can even use it with a flat iron if you want to go straighter on day two or three, as this product protects strands up to 450 degrees. The nourishing spray leaves no residue, smooths out your hair, and enhances the natural path of the original Day One blowout effortlessly, which I love. All it takes is a mere thirty seconds to two minutes to work with (along with an excellent brush and a powerful blow dryer) and voilà! You're left with a flawless finish.

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Why the $150 Prodigy Scientist-Developed Sunscreen is Worth Every Penny

“I’ve been using PAVISE Sunscreen, developed by genius scientist and entrepreneur Sophie Bai and I could not be happier.”

In the realm of skincare, there's an indispensable element you must always prioritize - sunscreen. Think about it: while you weigh the option of shelling out an extra $1k on an unscheduled Botox appointment for a fab party you just found out about or $500 on a tending rejuvenating facial, it's crucial you recognize that all in all, your daily sunscreen is your first line of defense against the factors that lead you to seek such expensive treatments in the first place. Right? I thought so. So, one should not balk at a $150 high-performance sunscreen that carries a mighty task: protecting your precious skin against wrinkles, dark spots and general sigs of ageing. I’ve been using PAVISE Sunscreen, developed by genius scientist and entrepreneur Sophie Bai and I could not be happier. In fact, other than testing new sunscreens for my vocation, I don’t see myself using anything else for the long run. This innovative mineral sunscreen uses their proprietary diamond core technology, providing comprehensive protection against UVA, UVB, and visible light. The formula is chemical-free, relying on mineral filters and enriched with potent bio-actives like Niacinamide, Tranexamic acid, and my personal favorite, the brightening plant botanical licorice root extract which beautifully evens out skin tone.

I also love the consistency and how it feels on my skin, non-greasy which is a hard task for sunscreens that deliver potent protection. Lastly, it's crucial to highlight the importance of complementing sunscreen with physical protection measures such as wearing a hat and sunglasses for added defense against harmful UV rays.

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My Morning Beauty Staple? A Probiotic Drink

I’ve spent 20 years trying scores of brands, and I’ve found nothing better than Symprove. This product is better than anything else available and comparable.

To those who got so into the celery juice, kale chips, and acai bowl crazes: I urge you to take a step back and recognize the importance of simply nourishing your gut microbiome with probiotics. Focus on strengthening our stomach health without getting swept up in fads! Today, in the year of 2024, there are a billion-plus reasons why you should take a probiotic every morning. Aside from gut health serving a paramount function for your well-being, probiotics help increase your energy levels, fortify immune function and (for the sake of our vanity) they address bloating concerns by harmonizing the gut flora. I’ve spent 20 years trying scores of brands, and I’ve found nothing better than Symprove. This product is better than anything else available and comparable. First, it’s a water-based probiotic solution, so it passes through the stomach into the lower gut without compromising any of the powerful bacteria. Symprove’s strains also produce lactate, which feeds the good bacteria in your stomach. And arguably most important: the evidence is clear in how I look and feel. When I stick to my regular diet and exercise routine, but don’t use Symprove and instead try other probiotics, I notice a decline in my energy levels, skin condition, and I experience more bloating. The proof is in the pudding. And this is a staple in my morning routine that I will never forego.

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