Fortunately for me, my job entails a lot of label scrutiny! I am fascinated by skincare ingredients and from the moment we start thinking about launching a new product, I’m anxious to check out the ingredient listing, always fascinated by relatively new ones—like Avena sativa (oat) kernel extract, which has beta-glucan to help diminish the appearance of fine lines—and oldies but goodies like tocopherol (vitamin E), which nourishes skin, and retinyl palmitate (vitamin A), which is pretty much a proven line fighter.

One of my favorite ingredients–and one that I love to talk abou–is salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is betahydroxy acid, or BHA. You’ve probably heard of BHA because it’s the counterpart to AHAs, or alphahydroxy acids. While both of these types of ingredients are important for glowing skin, what sets BHA apart is that it is lipid soluble, which means that it can actually dissolve excess sebum in pores to help keep them clear. AHAs—still key components in an age-defying skincare routine—purely exfoliate the surface of the skin.

BHA is also antiseptic and antimicrobial, other factors which, combined with its pore-purifying action, have helped to make it a go-to ingredient for fighting acne. An excellent example: The DHC Salicylic Acne Set offers our maximum-strength salicylic acid formula to banish blemishes.

But, what I really love about salicylic acid is that even if you don’t have acne, you can still benefit from incorporating it into your skincare routine. In addition to keeping your pores clear, BHA exfoliates, and when you use it regularly, it can help diminish the appearance of fine lines. I use DHC Salicylic Acne Toner on a regular basis to help clarify my pores. It’s lightweight and effortless–and I like its natural, herbal rosemary scent. Someone looking for the benefits of 2% salicylic acid could also incorporate DHC Salicylic Face Milk or DHC Salicylic Acne Wash for an effective BHA boost.

This month, DHC is sampling our entire Salicylic Acne Set in the catalog. Have you tried your free samples yet?

Moms shape our beauty routines, teaching us to brush our hair, wash our faces, protect our skin from the sun. If we’re lucky, when we’re young they buy us our first mascara, and help us choose a lipstick that actually works with our skin tone.

Just for fun, some highlights from our past Customer Spotlights.

Who is your beauty icon?

“My mother, who has skin like a baby’s bottom! She taught me to take care of my skin even at an early age. I thought it unnecessary at the time, but I appreciate it now!” DHC Customer Sayuri Shinya told us.

“My mom has always had a natural glow to her skin and hair and she is always smiling! At every age, she has inspired me to be beautiful on the inside as well as the outside,” said Roxy Anne Mueller, a DHC Customer Spotlight (and a mom!).

“My mother, my grandmother and my beautiful friends! A girls’ night out always includes conversation about our latest skin care routine,” said DHC Customer Sherri Simonsen. (Fun fact: Sherri brought her adorable mom with her to her DHC Customer Spotlight shoot!).

Beauty advice for moms

Many of our customers are moms themselves, many of whom, like Customer Spotlight Amy Wesson, are instilling good skincare habits into their children from early on. Amy shared some advice to new moms: “I think a lot of women, especially those new to motherhood, have a hard time feeling OK about taking time for themselves. Whether it is a walk alone or a night out with girlfriends, enjoy the time and let the worry go.”

I can identify with our Customer Spotlights: My mom was very diligent in passing along her beauty knowledge to me. (And now that I’m an adult, I enjoy sharing mine with her!) My own personal style, especially when it comes to makeup, is always less is more, and I’m sure that I got this from my mom. She always impressed upon me the importance of using makeup to enhance, not overpower my natural beauty. As a pre-teen, I remember buying cheap makeup from the drugstore and trying to wear it to school without her knowing, but of course—she found out! (Moms seem to have a way of doing that). Instead, she helped me choose makeup colors that flattered my skin tone instead of the colors I had selected—iridescent purples and blues—that worked against it. (Especially at age 12).

What beauty lessons did your mom teach you? If you’re a mom, what are the beauty lessons that you’re teaching your children?

Our sampling program here at DHC is generous and I’m able to get ‘to go’ sizes of everything I need for traveling. Some of my favorites are Deep Cleansing Oil, White Sunscreen, Concentrated Eye Cream and Cleansing Foam (just to name a few!). I love their compact, TSA friendly sizes, plus I can pack a variety of samples without them taking over my tiny carry-on bag. If I need a week’s supply, I bring along DHC mini’s like Deep Cleansing Oil, CoQ10 Lotion, CoQ10 Face Milk and Olive Soap. They’re perfectly sized and last up to 2 weeks.

What else is in my ‘to-go’ stash?
Lip Cream, Revitalizing Moisture Strips: Eyes and Body Cleansing Sheets. There’s nothing like getting off a plane after a red-eye and feeling like junk. Body Cleansing Sheets are perfect for an on-the-go, post-flight refresher!

OK, enough talking about it, I’ve gotta get on that packing … traveling south, y’all!

Don’t forget, going on now and while supplies last, you get a FREE DHC Beauty Train Case with the purchase of any 4 makeup products or minis!

The FDA does not have any regulations on when OTC (over the counter) skincare and cosmetic products expire. Some will have the dates printed but others will not, it’s up to the individual brand. This is not the case for OTC drug products like sunscreen or acne medications because they are regulated under FDA standards. So, if you’re wondering when to toss those, consult the bottle. Especially with sunscreen, stick to the dates so that there’s no risk of getting burned. For the rest of these products, I’ve made a quick cheat-sheet to the left.

Ever wonder what these little symbols are on our packaging? They’re the EU compliant ‘Period-after-opening’ or PAO symbol, which is a suggested time period to use the product up from the day you open it. While some preservatives last longer than others, it’s probably a good gauge for everyone to go by. The ‘m’ is ‘months’ and the number before it is how many to use it for. Keep a permanent marker in your makeup drawer and mark the bottom of the container with the date you opened it so you don’t forget.

Skincare products

Cleansers, moisturizers, toners all contain humectants to help the skin retain moisture. Jar packaging is fairly common with rich moisturizers but they breed bacteria faster than pumps because of the larger opening allowing air and your fingers to contaminate it. Be sure to use these products up quickly to avoid potential spoiling. Boosters and products that are very antioxidant-rich should be used within a few months to maximize their benefits before they oxidize. Also, don’t stock-up on antioxidant-rich products because the longer they sit on your shelf, the less effective they become. Buy them fresh and as needed.

Body products

Bar soaps, body lotions in pump bottles and hair products are some of the longest lasting products in this category. If they start to smell funny, change texture or color it’s time to pitch them. General rule is about 2 years.

Cosmetics

The makeup graveyard in the bottom of your bathroom drawer should be cleaned out seasonally. Cream and foundation products should be used in about a years time and powder-based products are good for a few years since their dry texture won’t breed bacteria. Lip/eye pencils – sharpened before each use – should last about 2-4 years. Lip products have a varying lifespan depending on how frequently you use them, so perform a smell test regularly to check for freshness. Lip gloss tends to go faster than lipstick because of it’s wet texture and it’s frequent application and after a while you can see the funk in the tube, so toss it! Mascara is is the one product in this category that needs to be replaced frequently … one you open it, use it for 3 months max so that bacteria stays away from your eye area. Typically it’s about the time you start getting massive clumping because the formula is starting to dry.

Beauty tools

Brushes, sponges and fingers can also contaminate your cosmetics and shorten their lifespan. Make sure to clean your brushes regularly (see post here), wash your sponge applicators after each use (allow to dry) and replace weekly. Wipe down metal products like tweezers and lash combs with rubbing alcohol. Also, remember to wash your hands before sticking them into any product.

Fine foods, you ask? I thought DHC was just about skincare!

DHC cares about beauty from the inside out, and we believe that extends to the foods we eat, which is why we offer DHC Fine Foods. Starting with our award-winning Núñez de Prado Extra Virgin Olive Oil–you’ve got to try our exclusive Flor de Aceite–you’ve got the basis for an amazing meal.

Of course, we’re always looking for new foods to offer to you. Remember when we visited the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco? We’re in the process of deciding which new foods pass our test to share with you.

This afternoon, I tried my hand at one of those options, a savory Indian curry. How do you feel about spices? And more importantly, what kinds of foods would you love to see from DHC?

We want to know!

PS: Trying to decide what to prepare for dinner tonight? Check out our treasure trove of archived DHC recipes. Right now, I’m a fan of Spring Vegetable Quinoa Salad (perfect for preparing after a farmers’ market run!) and Korean Barbecue Lettuce Cups. Spring–with cool cucumbers and revitalizing mint–is also a perfect time for this delightful, refreshing Cucumber Soup.

Delicious ideas for meals all weekend long!

On Monday, we went into the studio to shoot some how-to videos with stylist Adam Fleischhauer. Tia Kemp, our Video Production Specialist, Heidi Sanders, one of our Senior Graphic Designers (and Glam a la Carte’s Makeup Maven!), and yours truly, the DHC Catalog Editor, all took a turn in front of the camera as models. Patricia Bello, our Marketing Coordinator, directed!

Tia stages a shot.

Patricia stands in for lighting.

Ta-da! Three models-for-a-day take a bow. Tia, Heidi, and me show off our new styles.

Perfecting the flawless-looking face is an art and it takes practice to figure out what combination of products are right for you. Here are a few tips on how to achieve the perfect base makeup.

Moisturize & protect:

No matter what type of skin you have, it’s essential to properly prep the skin before you start your makeup. Select a lightweight moisturizer for your skin type, along with an appropriate eye cream and follow with a sunscreen product. Our new Camu Camu White Day Milk SPF 20 is an excellent 2-in-1 product for moisturizing with UV protection. Allow everything to absorb into the skin while you’re doing something else (like drying your hair) before you start your makeup.

Prime:

Priming is a great way to create a smooth surface for your makeup to glide on easily. Velvet Skin Coat is perfect for most skin types and Clarifying Pore Cover Base is excellent on the t-zone or for those with oilier skin. TIP: Velvet Skin Coat is great as an under-eye primer for those who have crepey lids.

Foundation:

I see so many people applying concealer before they put on their foundation … really, what’s the point? You’re going to knock it all off when you spread your foundation! That being said, after priming, apply a few dots of Q10 Moisture Care Liquid Foundation to the center of your face (see diagram 1). One on each side of the nose, one on the forehead and one on the chin. Work the foundation from the center of the face and up or out towards the hairline/jawline. Starting in the center and blending out will give you the most natural-looking coverage since most of our redness and blotchyness is in the center of our face. You can use a damp cosmetic sponge or your fingers to blend out the product.

Conceal:

Concealer should be used sparingly and only where you need it. On blemishes and discoloration use a dry, cake product, like our Q10 Concealer. This is best applied with the tiniest brush you can find, then pat gently with your finger and press Q10 Face Powder with the puff to set. On the under eye area, use a creamy product like our Rose Beauty Eye Zone Treatment Retouch Q10. We have very few oil glands around our eyes so using a cake concealer will only enhance the crepey skin. Apply in a v-shape (see diagram 2), pat to blend and set with Q10 Face Powder.

Powder:

Powder should be used sparingly and if you’re skin is really dry, you may not need it at all. I love to set my makeup with our Q10 Face Powder because it’s refined texture is easily blended into the skin. Apply powder only where you need it like the t-zone or around the nose. I like to leave my cheeks un-powdered for a glowy appearance.

Touch ups:

Carrying around a loose powder in your purse is a disaster waiting to happen, so bring along Q10 Moisture Care Pressed Powder in your purse for use throughout the day. If you’re skin’s oily, don’t add more powder without blotting first. Grease + powder = a slimy mess, yuck! Our hemp fiber Blotting Paper will remove excess oil and refresh your skin.

Even though I do try every product before we launch it, I have to say that it is extra exciting when new products launch. Our team receives new products so far in advance, that when you really love something and get used to using it, it can be hard to wait until it’s finally released. This is currently happening to me with some products we plan to launch in 2013—really exciting stuff!—but it also happened with some of our new products that just launched this month.

Like many of you, I have also been waiting for a lightweight moisturizer with SPF from DHC. We finally have one with new DHC Camu-Camu White Day Milk SPF 20. Not only does it moisturize with meadowfoam seed oil and protect skin from harmful rays, but it also contains camu-camu seed and fruit extracts. This little fruit is one of the most vitamin C-packed sources in the world. What this means is that it helps firm and brighten for a more illuminated complexion. Plus, it gives you an instant glow. Perfect for wearing as a primer. (For more of a brightening boost, layer new DHC Camu-Camu White Essence underneath. This silky serum features camu-camu seed and fruit extracts for brightening, while hydrating with skin-friendly jojoba oil. Read more here.)

I was also thrilled to finally be able to order the DHC Bio Cellulose Mask. It’s shaped like a paper sheet mask, but this luxury gel mask is actually made from fermented coconut water. The gel conforms to your face to deliver its hydrating, soothing serum. I’m getting on a cross-country flight this weekend, and you can bet that when I arrive at my destination, I will be using one of these masks to help rehydrate!

Have you tried any of these new DHC products yet? What do you think?

Easter’s here and whether you celebrate it or not, you’ve been subjected to store aisles full of pastel candies, eggs and everything bunny related … it put me in the spring state-of-mind and inspired this easy Easter-bonnet worthy look.

Step 1

After completing your foundation, apply the cream base from the Eye Shadow Palette EX in Enchanted Violet.

Step 2

On top of the shadow base, pat on the lightest purple all over your lid and blend up into the crease with a fluffy brush.

Step 3

Using a smaller brush, apply the same light purple under the eye and around the tear duct area.

Step 4

Using the same small brush, trace around your lash line with the darkest purple and blend out.

Step 5

Using a fluffy brush, continue to blend until the dark and the light purples create a nice gradation on your lid and under your lower lash line.

Step 6

Finish the look with Mascara Perfect Pro Double Perfection and either a pink or coral blush and lip. I used Face Color Palette in Coral Bloom and Moisture Care Liquid Lipcolor in Bali Sunset.

Don’t forget, buy any 4 DHC makeup items and while supplies last you’ll receive a DHC Beauty Train Case FREE, designed by yours truly …

Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

But what does DHC mean?

We get this question all the time.

“DHC” stands for “Daigaku Honyaku Center,” and is linked to our roots as an educational translation company founded in 1972. After our founder, Mr. Yoshiaki Yoshida, discovered an exceptional grade of olive oil, he was inspired to create Olive Virgin Oil and launched the DHC beauty enterprise in 1980.

You can read more about DHC’s history here.

And for more about us, check out our company video.

It seems like we’re on a manicure kick here and here at Glam à la Carte, so keep reading for more ideas on projecting a younger image via your own two hands.

Earlier this week, Barbara posted some great advice about prepping your hands for a perfect manicure. In addition to exfoliating and moisturizing, when you have a little extra mask or serum left over from your face, why not apply it to the backs of your hands? DHC Tourmaline Pack applied to hands will leave them feeling soft and pampered, and a few drops of DHC Wrinkle Essence or DHC Vitamin C Essence will show your paws some love.
There are also some visual tricks you can take advantage of to project a more youthful look. The color of nail polish you choose says a lot about your age. Glosses in shades of nude, pale pink, bold red and deep plum are preternaturally chic choices. These colors can make your hands look younger: Lighter shades will help visually lengthen your fingers. And warm shades of red and plum are bold, yet classic and draw attention to your nails, not your hands.

However, what about trendy shades of deep evergreen, candy-like lavender, cool blue or dove gray? As we age, we may want to keep in mind that blue-toned colors (even blue-toned reds and plums) can emphasize the veins in our hands.

And, I’d like to think that sparkling polishes can be compared to a hemline: Subtle shimmer can be like a versatile pencil skirt, giant glitter flakes can be like a celebration-worthy mini skirt.

But, these effects considered, I have to say that—especially when it comes to nail polish—I am in favor of going for the bold. Keep your nails at a modest length (no talons, please!) and you can wear anything. A manicured nail in an unusual color paired with a conservative outfit feels very modern, like a singular statement accessory. When it comes to nails, I think that “following the rules,” so to speak, and playing it safe with nudes, beiges, pinks and reds, could actually be aging. I’ve heard 30-somethings claim they stick only to “the classics,” and—while every woman has her own style—I have to say I think that’s boring. I don’t just mean the colors, but rather the willingness to put oneself into a box. The openness to risk-taking is inherently youthful, and trying a new nail polish color is a small, harmless way to invigorate ourselves. Plus, barring a 3-week gel manicure, it doesn’t last very long anyway. Blue’s not your hue? Go back to ballerina pink the following day.

What are your hands saying about you?

Our hands are exposed to the elements. Dish washing, cleaning, gardening and using tools (or using our nails as tools) to open, fix or scrape things is hard on the hands and nails.

Do something nice for your hands today. Try Facial Scrub or even the Olive Corn Body Scrub & Polish to gently exfoliate your fingers, hands and arms. This is an area we sometimes neglect and our hands are truly exposed to the elements everyday.

If you use the Facial Scrub to exfoliate follow with Q-10 Hand Cream. You could massage Olive Virgin Oil around the nail/cuticle area. Remember we also have Olive Virgin Oil Swabs, individually wrapped to be easily taken with you and used around the nail area without mess and providing luxurious olive oil in a portable form for a quick nail treat throughout your day.

If you use Olive Corn Body Scrub & Polish to gently exfoliate you will be lavishing your hands and nails with a gentle exfoliation as well as creamy hydration. So come on, pamper yourself a little today!

When you don’t have the luxury of hours to get to get ready in the morning, you need to trim the fat and get back to basics.

Step 1

Skip the primer and apply foundation only where needed. I like to put a dot on my forehead, both cheeks (close to my nose) and on my chin then blend. Keeping the foundation close to the center of your face and blending it outward gives it a more natural look and will cover any redness around your nose and mouth.

Step 2

Conceal your eyes with an easy on-the-go product like the Rose Beauty Eye Zone Treatment Retouch Q10 in buff. This multitasking concealer not only brightens the under eye area but it can also be used to conceal imperfections elsewhere on your face. Make sure to throw one in your purse for touch-ups later in the day!

Step 3

Perk up your face with a blush. Apply high on your cheekbones to give a more lifted appearance. You can see my blush demo here for more info. Face Color Palette in Cherry Blossom is a great go-to color.

Step 4

Ditch the liner and keep it simple. A neutral, sheer wash of color only takes seconds to apply but really adds dimension to your eyes. Eye Shadow Palette EX in Alluring Amber is the perfect shade that goes with everything.

Finish it off your eyes with a quick coat of Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection to widen your eyes.

Step 5

Nothing says polished like lipstick! Swipe on a color that packs a punch. Lip Color Perfect Pro Long Last in Vivid Fuchsia or Vivid Berry are great options and the formula lasts for hours!

On a serious time crunch? Pare it down to concealer, lipstick and mascara. Keep them in your purse and apply anywhere … on the train, at the tolls or while waiting in line for your morning latte.

Next, came the daunting task of prolonging my manicure. After a weekend of skiing, my nails were a little worse for the wear.

Rules of thumb

Three ways to make your manicure last

1. Choose your color wisely.

Obviously, as gorgeous as they can be, glossy reds, wines and plums will show every nick and scratch. Raise your odds of showing fewer chips by selecting a neutral or light metallic shade.

2. Buy a bottle of the nail polish so you can repair small chips.

Neutrals are a safe choice, but who can resist all of the vibrant new colors for nails? At my manicure last week, I chose an Easter Egg-purple—just because it made me happy. But, I neglected my own rule of thumb and forgot to buy a bottle. So, I was in a bit of a pickle when my mani started to look a little worn down… what’s the next step?

3. Glitter top coat.

I know that glitter is not for everyone or every occasion. If you work in a conservative environment, giant flakes of glitter on your nails probably won’t cut it. But, you could opt for a finer form of shimmer. Or, apply the glitter on Friday to help your manicure make it through the weekend!

What steps do you take to make your manicure last?

With the promise (threat?) of a late-winter/early-spring storm in the Sierras, on Saturday my boyfriend and I made a pilgrimage to Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort, a cross-country ski paradise that claims to be the largest in North America. For two days we explored the trails.

On the trails, it’s a good idea to carry a small pack with enough essentials to pass hours outdoors without a stop back to the lodge: Food and water, sunscreen, cell phone, trail map and a dry pair of gloves. I cannot get over how the demanding exertion of skiing makes the simplest things a treat. At one point, where the trail ended and a storm picked up, we stopped in a bare-bones warming hut. We had our own supplies, but there was a kettle and Earl Grey for the weary. With wind whipping around us, a simple paper cup of hot tea was just what I needed to summon the drive to head back out into the snow.

While we’re talking about the joy of simple things, I found that the dry conditions were prime for the enriching hydration of Olive Virgin Oil. Each day after getting off the trails, I treated my chapped skin with this pure, elegant hydration.

And I’m not the only one who loves Olive Virgin Oil in the backcountry. I was so inspired by former Customer Spotlight Irene Lindquist, who regularly braves the wild of Alaska’s backcountry, and seeks respite for her skin with our signature moisturizer. Her video will make you want to hit the trails!

The reason I loved this look was because it was so understated, polished and wearable. It’s not only a red carpet affair … Go ahead and wear it proudly to the office (like I’m doing right now).

On her eyes she wore a blend of golds and coppers with a simple cat eye and on her cheeks she wore a pinky coral with a similarly colored nude-coral lipstick. While I look nothing like her, for the sake of a demo, here’s how to get her look …

After my base makeup, I started off with Rose Beauty Eye Zone Treatment Retouch Q10 in peach to neutralize my tired eyes.

Next, I dusted Eye Shadow Moon in Sand Beige all over my eye as well as under my lower lash line.

For a slightly more dimensional look, I added Eye Shadow Moon in Sand Copper to the outer corners of my eye and stopped around halfway into my lid.

And lastly, I added Eye Shadow Moon in Sand Gold to my crease for added drama.

To finish off the eye, I used Eyeliner Perfect Pro Pencil in Black to draw the cat eye and Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection in Black on my lashes. Jessica’s wearing a nice set of false eyelashes in her look but I’m trying to keep it simple so that might be an option if you were to wear this look somewhere special!

To re-create Jessica’s cheeks and lips, I used Face Color Palette in Coral Bloom and Highlighter for my cheekbones and browbones. On my lips, I used Moisture Care Lipstick in Sweetpea.

Turns out lots of Brits agree with her. Natural Health Magazine UK announced this week DHC Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection as Winner, Best Mascara in the magazine’s 2012 Beauty Awards.

This long-lasting mascara covers each lash in little tubes that absolutely stay put until you’re ready to remove them. Only the magic combination of warm water and gentle massage will dissolve the mascara. It stays put through sad movies, intense gym workouts, rain showers—you name it!

Have you tried the “Best Mascara” yet?

I went to a seminar on Bluebirds over the weekend, not only are they beautiful with an enchanting song, but also looked at as a sign of hope. It was a lovely way to spend a morning with people having just that kind of outlook.

Then there is Spring Cleaning. This is a great time to throw out old makeup and skincare. Things you haven’t used, a color mistake or just plain bought it and didn’t like it after using. (Sometimes I ask myself what were you thinking when you picked that color?)

Now of course you could pick out something from the beautiful new shades in DHC’s Makeup Collection to add to your prior choices. How about a new blush or eye shadow? A lighter textured skincare product, or something you just haven’t tried yet but want to in DHC’s product lineup.

Remember nothing says new Spring Outfit like a great new lipstick to go with it!

Featured in the image above:
Eye Shadow Palette EX in Velvet Moss
Eye Shadow Palette EX in Blushing Dahlia
Moisture Care Lipstick in Brown Sugar
Q10 Moisture Care Pressed Powder in Light
Face Color Palette in Cherry Blossom

My thoughts still go out to the millions still affected by the tragedy. The after-effects of such grand-scale disasters never go away as quickly as the news coverage does. But if DHC Corporation is any indication of Japan as a whole, it’s clear that not only will the country bounce back, but return with greater exuberance and even better than before.

North bay views from our design office

East Bay views from the design office

My nextdesk neighbor ... That big cabinet is our newly aquired mini-bar

More of the design office ...

Our next door neighbor, the famous Transamerica Pyramid.

Lobby entrance

DHC lobby

Chinatown … from the conference room

More Chinatown

Chinatown and Nob Hill

Our giant new conference room. This table is the size of a runway ... love it!

The pièce de résistance ... our new coffee machine ... one touch bliss!

Lots of files to be filed ...

We had to build a closet to house all of our wardrobe and props. Finally, they have a home!

Lots of dishes, towels, plates and bowls to be organized ... in due time!

Have a great weekend and don’t forget to spring ahead tomorrow night!

It’s continuing to win hearts—and faces—as a beauty editor pick. Today.com featured our ultra-gentle yet effective cleanser this week in an article about their favorite nourishing oils for face, hair and body. In the round-up, it says Deep Cleansing Oil is “probably the most popular oil-based cleanser.” Click here to read the article.

Well, what are you using was the command? Deep Cleansing Oil, Q-10 Line of Products and EGF Cream. Oh, and of course Eye Peptides and Neck Peptides as well as Extra Concentrate.

Need I say more?

Extra Concentrate is a concentrated, collagen-enriched serum clinically proven to decrease the appearance of fine lines by as much as 48%. What are you waiting for?

Get your compliments by adding advanced or targeted products to your skin care regimen.

Our empty lobby ...

It was a loooonng day of packing ...

Even the wardrobe closet is ready to go ...

Goodbye noisy Sansome St!

My last post from here ... that's all folks!

It’s moving day here at DHC. We’re packed up and ready to roll on over to our swanky new office. It’s quite an upgrade for us here at corporate and with great anticipation we say goodbye for now …

Here’s a little photo tour of our old place in boxes … our nice camera is already packed so you get the low-quality phone photos instead!

At DHC, we love to hear from our customers about their stories of clear, beautiful, dare we say—radiant—skin and the transformations that they experience once they start using our products. You can read our almost 2,000 reviews of Deep Cleansing Oil here and see our lovely Customer Spotlights and their true-to-life testimonials here. Regardless of skin type, age, or how much makeup they wear, Deep Cleansing Oil holds wide appeal. I love how women in their 70s get the same results as women in their 20s.

My complexion changed for the better when I began using this cleanser, too. Deep Cleansing Oil is a different kind of product, especially to Western women. We’re taught all our lives not to put oil on our faces. For me, “oil free” was drilled into my psyche from the time I was old enough to wear makeup. We’re also taught to immediately mix our cleansers with water and lather them up before putting them on our faces. Not so with Deep Cleansing Oil: It works because you apply it with dry hands to a dry face and then add water.

My only outlying concern remaining was, “Will it make me break out?” I’ve always battled reactions from harsh chemicals, fragrances and colorants, so I’ve always been wary of new products. Prior to using Deep Cleansing Oil, I was using a very popular water-based cleanser that is regularly recommended to people with sensitive skin. I used it for years, no questions asked. My skin always looked OK.

But, I had no idea what I was missing.

When I started using Deep Cleansing Oil, I felt like I finally understood what “radiance” meant! Weird yet true: I had random strangers stopping me on the street to ask me about my complexion. My family and friends noticed, too. And, I never experienced a breakout from using it. Now, when I’m testing new products and find that my skin is a little irritated from all the change, I return to my tried-and-true DHC four-step routine—which begins with soothing, calming, purifying Deep Cleansing Oil—and return to the radiance to which I’ve become accustomed.

What’s your Deep Cleansing Oil story?

While none of the fashion at last night’s ceremony truly knocked my socks off, my star-watching wasn’t diminished and I took my usual trip down memory lane of resplendent Oscar ceremonies past. And I can’t get enough of numbered lists, so here are my top 5 favorite Academy gowns of all time:

5.       Grace Kelly, 1955

This is my only “classic Hollywood” selection (generally I love more modern fashion), but few could beat the angelic perfection that is Grace Kelly in a pale blue custom-made gown by golden age costume designer, Edith Head. The dress was ahead of its time, and obviously designed with a magnificence that assumed Kelly would win Best Actress for The Country Girl and strut that dress on stage. Brava, Edith.

4.       Kate Winslet, 2002

They say red is hard to wear on the red carpet. Good thing Kate Winslet never got that memo. Nothing says “single and loving it!” post-divorce than a hot red dress for the world to see. Winslet delivered in spades in 2002 wearing  a Ben de Lisi showstopper. My favorite parts? The curve-accentuating bodice and the cascading floral strap, which bring feminine and fierce together in one jaw-dropping gown.

3.       Nicole Kidman, 1997

Sure, everyone knows what a fashion icon Nicole Kidman is today. But back in the early to mid-90s, the Kidman I knew (via paparazzi photos, of course) wore boxy mid-calf sundresses and straw hats over her corkscrew ringlet curls. Cute, but couture it was not. That is, until the Oscars in 1997, when she stepped out in To Die For (ya get it?) chartreuse Galliano chinoiserie, complete with floral embroidery over the décolletage. I could have done without the mink hem, but otherwise, this dress signified the arrival of the fashion muse Nicole Kidman we know today.

2.       Cate Blanchett, 1999

Google it. Bing it. This dress leaves me speechless. I don’t know what to say about it other than it’s a work of art, actually makes Ms. Blanchett more perfect than she already is, and is absolutely breathtaking. I loved it so much, in fact, that it inspired a certain significant piece of indelible art I acquired the following year (another blog post for another day).

1.       Michelle Williams, 2006

So what—I can hear you asking yourselves—can be more magnificent that the Blanchett-Galliano collaboration that inspired a tattoo? A dress so perfect in every way that it still makes my spine tingle when I look at it today. And the best part? I never saw it coming. The award for best Oscar dress—ever—goes to Michelle Williams in the sunflower yellow Vera Wang in 2006. I don’t know what it is about this gown that makes me gaga. Is it the exquisite pleating, darting and ruching in all the right places? Yes, yes, and yes! I love the color and its arresting contrast to the crimson of the carpet. Williams’ styling is perfection, from the loose curls and exquisite chignon to her sunspray necklace and her perfect orange-pinky-red lipstick that I have been searching for since 2006. In the words of Rachel Zoe, Jennifer Lopez, and Guiliana Rancic: Gorge! Wow-a! Amaze-balls!

So what do you think of my selections and rankings? Whether you agree or wouldn’t be caught dead in these frocks, don’t hesitate to let me know.

On an additional beauty footnote, have you noticed that how HDTV is picking up every little detail on celebrity complexions? It’s truly unforgiving.  On the one hand, I’m left in awe of how perfect some celebrity complexions can be (Michelle Williams, Angelina Jolie and Adele, I’m talking to you). On the other, I’m comforted that some stars go through the same skin woes us regular gals do (no names here), only theirs are broadcast to millions around the world! Still, if you’re looking for that extra little flaw-concealing tube of magic, pick up some Velvet Skin Coat. It makes a galaxy of difference in photos and videos.

Another footnote … did anyone notice that Penelope Cruz was wearing our Customer Spotlight Angie Spencer’s gown? Sure looked like it anyway. ; )

And for those of you reminding me I have another list to finish, I say—how boring would the world be without suspense? Tune in…

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Deep Cleansing Oil
2. Gentle baby shampoo
3. A bowl of warm water
4. A clean towel

Step 1:

There’s hundreds of ways to clean your brushes but one of the easiest is most likely sitting on your bathroom counter: Deep Cleansing Oil. Pump it into a dry palm and swirl the brush in the oil. Similar to the way you cleanse your face, gently massage the bristles to completely remove caked-on makeup and rinse under warm water.

Step 2:

Place a small amount of gentle baby shampoo into a bowl and add warm water. Dip the bristles into the water and massage gently. Much like our ‘Double Cleanse Method’ for your skin, this rinses any residual dirt and oil off your brushes for a deep-down clean. Be careful not to immerse the entire feral (the metal part) into the water. Rinse again under warm water.

Step 3:

Reshape your brushes and lay flat on a clean towel. Never dry your brushes standing up because the water can seep back into the feral and cause the glue to break down or in some cases, rust. Leave overnight to dry and re-fluff in the morning.

Drying time may vary depending on the material and density of each brush. Natural fibers can take 12+ hours to dry but synthetic materials dry in just a few hours, so plan accordingly.

Tips:

1. Since I’m a germaphobe with my makeup, I quick-clean my brushes daily in-between the deep cleanings with Deep Cleansing Oil. My weapon of choice? Wet wipes (or baby wipes). They’re gentle enough for natural bristles but they remove surface dirt and oil in between use. Just lay one out on the counter and swirl your brush over it before placing them back into your makeup bag. It’s super fast and super easy and your makeup will stay contamination-free.

2. This method also works great with makeup wedges. Instead of pumping the product into your palm just pump it directly onto the sponge, work through and rinse. Follow steps 2–3 and you’ll be amazed at how clean it is!

“The three cheerful pink shades are easy to blend and impossible to overdo,” Allure says.

For this and the other four shades of Face Color Palette, plus a blush tip that’s quick, easy and makes a major difference, click here.

Keep reading to find out which ingredient will have you keeping the good times rolling.

We’re celebrating this Fat Tuesday by cooking up a hearty New Orleans-style gumbo and pairing it with nutritious, California-grown germinated brown rice-new from DHC. Spicy Andouille sausage mingles with plump, juicy prawns in this rich gravy, which takes well to the nutty goodness of the germinated brown rice.

Plus, germinated brown rice contains more GABA than just plain white rice. GABA, or gamma aminobutyric acid, promotes a sense of wellbeing.

To that, we say “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”