Knowing when to splurge and when to save is an essential part of curating a beauty collection. Topof- the-line products might give you sticker shock, but you have to assess the risk-benefit ratio: Does a costly cream or conditioner last longer because you use less? And are the results of some splurge so superior that you can’t recreate them with anything else? Here is my quick guide to a few of the best splurge-worthy items.
[beauty sleep]
Iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Pillowcase
Who says an anti-aging treatment has to come in the form of a cream or serum? Iluminage’s Skin Rejuvenating Pillowcase requires little more than a good night’s sleep. The pillowcase is coated in copper oxide, releasing the active ingredient onto the face and triggering the skin’s moisture layers and its natural self-renewal system. Fine lines and wrinkles are improved without worrying about running out of night cream. Machine-washable.
>>neimanmarcus.com, $60
[bye-bye tired eye]
Sisley Paris Phyto Cernes Eclat Eye Concealer
Get serious about under-eye coverage with Sisley Paris’ Phyto Cernes Éclat Eye Concealer. Packed with natural active ingredients like soy, carrot and ginkgo biloba, the tinted concealer works to cover up dark circles, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize puffiness. Don’t be intimidated by its dark hue; gently blend with the metal tip and watch as the concealer lightens and evenly adjusts to your natural skin tone.
>>Nordstrom, $104
[crème de la crème]
Chanel Sublimage L’Essence
Moisture is everything when it comes to preserving a youthful glow, so why be stingy with your daily moisturizer? This serum uses Golden Champa Polyfractioned Active or PFA, derived from a flower in the Himalayas. Purified to its most potent state, the floral essence is said to combat signs of aging while keeping skin free of toxins. A little goes a long way, which helps extend this luxury cream.
>>Neiman Marcus, $425
[back to basics]
Kai Deodorant
Kai Fragrance has taken deodorant to the next level with a fragrant yet efficient deodorant. The translucent base is packed with vitamin E, chamomile, plant extracts and skin-conditioning sugars to control moisture and keep you dry. And the signature gardenia-based fragrance will keep you smelling so good, you may reconsider wearing perfume.
>>Vie Boutique, $26
[sonic youth]
Clarisonic PLUS
Clarisonic PLUS will change your face-washing routine in just the click of a button. Offering three speeds, the hand-held device cleanses efficiently and effectively. It’s a pore reducer, skin tightener, vitamin absorber and makeup remover all in one. Just put your favorite cleanser on the brush, pick your speed and let it work its magic. Your skin will not only brighten but be restored to a youthful, healthy state.
>>Fine department stores, $225
Photo by Bill Barrett
