LET'S TALK SKINN-CARE

"If I could turn back time", you know the song...So let's sing it for real!  A few months ago SKINN Cosmetics reached out to me to try several of their product. In the past year, I've been fortunate enough to be introduced to many skincare lines, and I must say...SKINN has been a game-changer for my skin. I was grateful for the day the package arrived. I'm a sucker for serums and lotions and potions...so upstairs I went to wash my face to begin the SKINN test run.

Dimitri James is the Founder of Skinn Cosmetics, a line of premium skincare formulas and color cosmetics. Dimitri is passionate about skincare, his inspiration comes from his mother and his grandmother who are European-trained aestheticians and made their own skincare products from the finest natural ingredients. They instilled in him that what matters most when it comes to beauty is what’s on the inside (love them already) True beauty, his mother always taught him, comes not only from having a good heart and mind but also how a person feels about themselves. I have so much respect for Dimitri, he followed his passion, and that meant listening and understanding the need for women to feel beautiful from the inside out. There's a reason SKINN is becoming so popular amongst women today, and that's the desire behind Dimitri's vision for authentic beauty.

Love my robe from Ya Living

Love my robe from Ya Living

The Collagenesis Crème Reverse & the Translucence  Resurfacing Concentrate -I'm using this as my daily moisturizer, along with the Translucence Serum; It's lightweight, silky and quickly absorbs into your skin. It really works on those tiny fine lines, apply first thing in the morning and before bed. The moisturizer; There's no greasy feeling, and it absorbs right into your skin, leaving it smooth and even, ready to apply your base.

After several weeks of using this trio, my skin has shown a visable difference in moisture and hydration. I'm on the dry side, and this serum, eye cream, and mask helped tremendously. Apply the Hydro Vital Mask and after 15 minutes your skin will glow! Concentrated with a highly effective and innovative blend of Blue-Green Algae and Malachite Extracts which are rich in minerals, vitamins, and amino acids.

 Hydro Vital Eye Cream -  As we age, the area under the eyes can be so tricky, even we feel rested we begin to have this dry, dull and sunken-looking appearance. This delicate, yet potent blend of antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, botanical and fruit extracts has softened that area, which lightens up the dark areas. Under my eyes, the skin is thin and can begin to look dry fast. I have seen a difference after 3 weeks of using regularly.

The Hydro-Vital Serum is enriched with various forms of Hyaluronic Acid, botanical butters, oils and fruit extracts, this has evened out my skin, along with changing the texture. What a difference!

Enlightened Radiance Youth Capsules; You know what they say...Big things come in tiny packages. The capsules are fantastic for discoloration! I have age spots, and yes ladies after using these Radiance Capsules those spots are so much lighter. These capsules have brightened my complexion. Featuring a unique and extremely effective peptide derived from Pearl Protein.  

Fill Me In Volumizing Mask; Who doesn't' want a fuller look! Formulated with a potent and highly effective blend of Sesame Seeds, Hyaluronic Acid , and an encapsulated amino acid to deliver deep hydration and anti-aging benefits.  Brush this on before a night out and you'll love your look!  

Oh no the neck!  Neck Amor; Yes, I'm trying to say kind words about my neck. The neck area is so thin & delicate, this leave-on neck mask is formulated with Rice Protein to increase moisture retention, as well as a Probiotic blend made from 100% pure plant juice derived from jicama to help improve skin radiance with a redefining and smoothing effect. Don't go to bed without it.

Lipid infusion Face oil - I am crazy for this face oil!  Not only do I put it on before applying my makeup, I apply it over my face during the day to keep the glow going. Essential Omega and Lipid Infusion, a lightweight, exquisite blend of Omega 3, 6, 7 & 9, Ceramides, Vitamins D & E, a Sunflower Seed Cake, Barley and Cucumber extract blend, as well as Seabuckthorn, Cranberry, Olive, Rosemary, Dilo, Marula, and Grapeseed. For perfect glowing skin.

Beauty Sleep Botanical Oil Mist - We all know we need our beauty sleep, with this calming Lavender, Valerian, Chamomile, and Passionflower Oil, you'll instantly decompress. Spray on right before you get into bed. We all need a good nights sleep, reboot your soul with this mist.

I don't travel without my Collagenesis Stem Rejen Facial Serum (pink bottle) This is a must! Formulated with three high-performing active ingredients, Glacier Water, Snow Algae Powder and Alpine Rose. Glacier Water, an active found in the glaciers of the Swiss Alps has been preserved for thousands of years keeping its youthful properties helping to keep skin looking younger by delivering deep, long-lasting hydration. Even if you have sensitive skin, I suggest trying this.

Life is such a gift and most of us understand how important it is to take care of our mind, body and spirit and of course that includes our skin. We are living longer in today's world and we want to look how we feel. Most of us aren't even close to looking our age, and thanks to people like Dimitri from SKINN, we can find what works best for us, yes...we're all different but we are women, and we're fearless... and we don't give up!  Step out your door and feel alive, feel beautiful no matter how old you are, and look in the mirror and know You Are Beautiful. 

      "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams".                                                                                                   Elenor Roosevelt

    

 

IN THE NUDE(Z) FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND & ONE-PIECE SUITS

Memorial Day Weekend is here. Let's welcome the holiday with a few great styles for your weekend & Summer getaway plans. Coverups, one piece bathing suits and a few products to help you glow your way globetrotting along.

Use my discount code GratefulGardenia30 and save 30%

Use my discount code GratefulGardenia30 and save 30%

Nudz Beachwear Santorini Cover up works from sunrise to sunset. Get ready to revv up your shore-side style. Nudz is made right here in Los Angeles. 

This Santorini Cotton coverup works over any suit and covers all the right places. It's lightweight so if you're on-the-go... no worries when you toss it in your tote. If you're planning on traveling to Miami take a look at The One Hotel - pictured above. Lovely hotel.

With the coverup & the mini you're ready for cocktail hour and a lovely sunset.

Barefoot, sandals, or heels...it all works. 

The Angie mini dress, in solid microfiber, is fully lined at the top and has adjustable and convertible over- the-shoulder-straps, insertable pads, if you need them. It's perfect for paddle boarding, dries quickly. It has UV +50 protection, swim in it, lunch in it, shop in it. Off you go, from the beach to the street.

Angie Dress

One Piece Collection

La Petite Robe di Chiara Boni -- This one-piece is a Neiman Marcus exclusive and the ruffles are the IT trend for spring. What I love about this suit is how versatile it is.

La Petite Robe di Chiara Boni -- This one-piece is a Neiman Marcus exclusive and the ruffles are the IT trend for spring. What I love about this suit is how versatile it is.

Marysia Swim -- This Los Angeles-based brand is super popular with celebs and bloggers. Their one-piece suits are super stylish, the material does not bunch up, and they dry quickly.

Marysia Swim -- This Los Angeles-based brand is super popular with celebs and bloggers. Their one-piece suits are super stylish, the material does not bunch up, and they dry quickly.

Jets by Jessika Allen -- Playful yet sophisticated, this bathing suit comes in black, blue, and orange, and is sophisticated, yet chic. It can also double up as as bodysuit!

Jets by Jessika Allen -- Playful yet sophisticated, this bathing suit comes in black, blue, and orange, and is sophisticated, yet chic. It can also double up as as bodysuit!

I'm a big fan of ERES they hold everything in, even after lunch!

Ted Baker London Known for its feminine prints and silhouette, this suit has a vibrant print that's not only perfect for a vacation, it also offers plenty of support. 

Ted Baker London Known for its feminine prints and silhouette, this suit has a vibrant print that's not only perfect for a vacation, it also offers plenty of support. 

Kate Spade Love the retro feel of this suit! Plus, the applique and cutout add a bit of elegance and sophistication. 

Ted Baker -- Another fantastic piece by Ted Baker! Love the blue prints mixed with tropical elegance

Ted Baker -- Another fantastic piece by Ted Baker! Love the blue prints mixed with tropical elegance

 

Kiini ‘Cha Cha one-shoulder metallic-trimmed swimsuit' -- This swimwear line has reached a cult status and the suits come in solid prints with embroidered edges that take the styles to a whole new level of chicness. 

 Eres 'Cassiopee Swimsuit’ -- Love the timeless feel of this suit!

 

Eres 'Cassiopee Swimsuit’ -- Love the timeless feel of this suit!

Mara Hoffman Terry -- The stripes give it a nautical feel that's playful and very stylish. 

Mara Hoffman Terry -- The stripes give it a nautical feel that's playful and very stylish. 

Karla Colletto -- Another cutout suit that enhances all of the right curves and at the same time is very elegant. 

Karla Colletto -- Another cutout suit that enhances all of the right curves and at the same time is very elegant. 

Karla Colletto -- Another great piece that's very flattering and offers plenty of coverage.

Karla Colletto -- Another great piece that's very flattering and offers plenty of coverage.

Vitamin A Neutra -- This suit is all about the California lifestyle that is very slimming and sexy at the same time. 

Vitamin A Neutra -- This suit is all about the California lifestyle that is very slimming and sexy at the same time. 

I personally prefer a one piece suit, I swim, jump, dive, and paddleboard. Wearing a suit that doesn't need to be tugged on is my idea of a great one piece. 

Feel like glowing a little...

My go-to for that perfect amount of golden sheen.

My go-to for that perfect amount of golden sheen.

Lacréme Beauté's GOLD OIL is not only luxurious in how is shimmers on the skin, this product is also filled with very nourishing oil. From the magical baobab oil which improves skin's texture and luster, along with moisturizing oils of Jojoba. This is the perfect body oil for any occasion just adding that little bit of luxury to one's beauty regime. There is a light scent of exotic frangipani, and the minute it's applied you will be transported to those wonderful days of summer.

NAKED Urban Decay Lipgloss - Perfect natural nudes with a hint of pink & peach

Don't leave out our highlighter from Laura Gellar - easy to travel with, no brush needed.

Don't leave out our highlighter from Laura Gellar - easy to travel with, no brush needed.

Have a great holiday weekend! Go create a new adventure & be grateful for every moment.

Cressi Swim Mask - I always travel with my swim goggles, Cressi makes the best!  Swimming along in Eres

Cressi Swim Mask - I always travel with my swim goggles, Cressi makes the best!  Swimming along in Eres

Just Keep Swimming...

SHOP THE POST

Thanks for reading... Janet & Jes

Jes' Adventure at the Parker Palm Springs

A Note From Jes...

When it comes to decompressing, I am all about fun road trips. One of my favorite places to unwind and relax for a weekend is non other than Palm Springs! You can check out some of my posts about this desert oasis here, here, and here.

About two hours east of Los Angeles, this city offers pretty much everything that I 'a must' when vacationing. From great hotels with a buzzing pool scene, to delicious restaurants, and unique finds -- Palm Springs has it all going on!

I escape here as often as I can, and have made quite a few great memories. Some of my favorites involve a very special and beautiful Parker Palm Springs.

The former Gene Autry Estate is now a Jonathan Adler-designed property that boasts chic and comfy rooms, three pools, a spa that feels like a Nantucket country club, a Trina Turk boutique on the weekends, two delicious restaurants, and ample outdoor space complete with a fire pit, a giant chess board, bicycles, a lemonade stand, and games.

Upon entering the property, guests are greeted with an eclectic lobby filled with old-world rugs and modern, colorful geometric design. My favorite details include the white walls adorned with colorful lanterns, playful seating areas, and quirky art.

The rooms are worthy of a five-star snooze! Spacious, with a beautiful mid-century modern feel, and incredibly comfortable beds, the only reasons to get out are breakfast and the pools. Some of the luxe toiletries they offer include Hermes soaps and Penhaligon's shampoos and conditioners -- perfect for a night of pampering and well-deserved R&R. They also have villas perfect for group outings or a girls' weekend. 

The grounds have several gardens, including a shaded croquet court, a playful oversized chessboard and a sunny spot with hammocks where you can bask in the sunlight. Grab a cold beverage and be sure to enjoy these amenities during your stay.

If brunch is what you crave, Norma’s is the place to enjoy a delectable fare. The staff is incredibly friendly, and your meal will begin with a smoothie of the day sample. Last time I visited, I ordered their chocolate French Toast, and it's TO DIE FOR! It's so rich and decadent, but worth every bite -- call it a 'cheat day must have,' if you please! Other delicious staples include their burgers, salads, and huevos rancheros.

The hotel has three pools, two outdoors, and one in the spa - which is a must-try. The outdoor pools have, about halfway in between them, a bar called Lemonade, with delicious treats and perfectly chilled drinks for those hot desert days. Only one of these pools is kid-friendly, so plan accordingly.

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Once you set foot at the spa, you may not want to leave! They offer relaxing treatments such a hot stone massages, exfoliating body srubs, facials, waxing, and spray tanning. They even have special packages for baby moons, and other special occasions. If working out is what you desire, then their fitness center, group yoga classes, and outdoor tennis courts will do the trick. 

Before you book your adventure -- here are a few 'good to know' tidbits:

-The weekends are incredibly busy, especially during the Summer months. If possible, go on a weekday, and you will most likely have the place to yourself!

-Ask for a room upgrade: Everyone at the property is very helpful, and they will try to accommodate your requests. If available they will honor an upgrade, so don't be afraid to ask (the worst they will say is 'no')

So excited for my next Palm Springs visit, because it's going to be another one for the books! Tell Janet and I, what are some of your favorite places to escape for the weekend?

Janet and I during a fun adventure in Downtown Los Angeles in 2015. I am so grateful for the friendship we've developed over the past few years!