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Author: Margit Rüdiger

CultureAndCream Author from Munich To travel during my profession as a beauty journalist was never enough for my. Also my six month on a world trip didn't do it. It always attracts me to other cities, foreign countries, on roadtrips and places I don't know yet. But I am not only interested in "culture" and "cream", I am also fascinated by people who have stories to tell .  Such unique experiences I want to share with you.

Spring Skincare: Time For A Change

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Skincare is not a routine that is set in stone. Depending on the season, readjustments and adjustments are necessary. After all, we change the tires on our car after the frosty months and swap a T-shirt for a turtleneck. It all goes without saying. No discussion. But what about our skin? Skincare should adapt to the season. With the change from winter to spring, the skin is exposed to less cold and dry air, but higher humidity and more sun. While we used to pamper it with layers of rich creams, serums and oils during the cold season, now more lightness is required. You may now be saying that the jar of expensive winter cream is still half full. I can’t just throw it out now. You should at least do that when applying it to your face. If we continue to stick to our winter rituals, the skin will literally get short of breath under the thick layers of skin care when the outside temperatures warm up and the humidity rises. “The oily products would clog the pores and lead to heat build-up. This causes redness and, in the worst case, inflammation,” says Dr. Timm Golüke, dermatologist in Munich. Nevertheless, winter cream doesn’t have to go in the bin. My tip: I use it on my décolleté and also on my shins, which are prone to dryness. Luxury, I know. But before the product sits open in the jar until next winter and is then unusable… Skincare in spring: UV protection SPF50 In spring, it is best to replace the richer moisturizer or oil-based serum with a hyaluronic acid, water or aloe vera-based texture. Now the skin can store more moisture on its own and needs less support in this respect. And such a light serum still has all the nutrients the cells need. It is also absorbed more quickly, which is an advantage during the day. In addition, New York dermatologist Dermatologin Dr. Patricia Wexler strongly advises a high light filter: “While a moisturizer with SPF 30 is sufficient in winter, it should be at least SPF 50 now, apart from lotion and make-up.” Dermatologists have long agreed that, regardless of the weather and temperature, all parts of the body that are exposed to light need UV protection – on a daily basis. Unfortunately, the reality is different. Especially people who live in northern regions or have rarely spent the winter outdoors tend to forget sun protection in spring.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Anti-glycation sun care “ Sunleÿa” by Sisley

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Anti-glycation is a whole new approach to sun protection. Sisley sun care has been one of my favorites when it comes to protecting my facial skin since the very beginning. It offers optimal protection against sunburn, light-induced skin ageing caused by free radicals and has an antioxidant effect. The fine and silky texture of the cream is so light that it is barely noticeable. But now Sisley has played another trump card. The new Sunleÿa sun care in the two variations SPF 30 and SPF 50+ has an improved formula that also works against glycation. This saccharification of the elastic fibers leads to a stiffening of the skin. It loses elasticity and firmness. The complexion loses its radiance, wrinkles and fine lines can appear prematurely. The skin itself has hardly any means at its disposal to counteract glycation. Previously, it was possible to prevent glycation of the fibers in skin care. However, the process could not be reversed. Once glycation, always glycation! However, the Sisley research team has succeeded in investigating the mechanism of this stiffening process in more detail and developing a formula that intervenes at the exact moment when the damage caused by sunlight would occur in the skin. Anti-glykation with the G+ formula Nevertheless, glycation inevitably occurs with some proteins. A second corrective measure was therefore required. This is provided by the innovative G+ complex, which triggers a deglycation process. It contains a red algae extract with a preventive and corrective dual action that helps the skin regain its tone and elasticity. A biosaccharide solution improves elasticity and moisture, while adenosine acts against wrinkles. Added to this is a plant-based hydroxytyrosol, which combats oxidative stress in the skin and protects it from premature ageing. An edelweiss extract promotes moisturization, and an extract of Japanese lily of the valley supports the skin’s barrier function while promoting a long-lasting tan to support the physical barrier. Vitamin B3 allows less melanin to reach the skin’s surface. This results in an even tan and fewer pigmentation spots. A biomimetic approach Another new feature is the filter complex with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It can be distributed particularly evenly on the skin to ensure extensive protection. The biomimetic approach reinforces and supports the skin’s natural defenses. This is because our skin has natural defense, repair and protection mechanisms. When exposed to UV radiation, a physical and antioxidant skin barrier is spontaneously activated. The new Sunleÿa formula reinforces these two barriers for even more protection against UV rays.… weiterlesen

48 Hours In Rome

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Rome, the eternal city, is always worth a trip. Even if it’s a short trip for two days, as in my case. My starting point this time was a special kind of hotel, right on the Piazza di Spagna. A place from which you can reach many sights and the city’s most popular shopping routes on foot. The Spanish Steps in Rome are one of the most photographed hotspots in the city. You won’t even see it deserted in the pouring rain. My hotel for 48 hours, on the other hand, is an insider tip. The address is also the name: PiazzaDiSpagna9 – Luxury Suites & Art Gallery. PiazzaDiSpagna9 – Living between works of art On the third floor of the orange-colored palazzo from the 14th century, you live among contemporary art and ultra-modern design. Each of the objects and selected pieces of furniture can be purchased and delivered directly to your home if your bank account allows. The small hotel is a true Eldorado for design and art lovers. The house, or rather floor, in Piazza di Spagna is family-run. It was designed by the famous Italian interior designer Stefania Grippo. However, you will search in vain for a restaurant and breakfast room. Art has priority here. For relaxation, however, there is a cozy and luxurious spa with a whirlpool, massages and even a small hammam. The eclectic lounge area, a common room for temporary residents, offers a breathtaking view of the Piazza di Spagna with the Fontana della Barcaccia (Barcaccia Fountain) and the Spanish Steps. Emanuele, the concierge at PiazzaDiSpagna9, is available to assist his guests from 8 am to 8 pm. And also by mobile phone. If there are any questions about the best place to have breakfast (two houses on the left) or dinner, he always has the right address for your requirements. Over the roofs of Rome The six rooms and suites, mostly hidden behind golden doors, have names such as Joy, Breath and Whisper. Mine is called Aria and actually has a small, airy balcony overlooking a typical Italian backyard. It would be nice to be able to have breakfast here in the sunshine. I can hear singers practicing their octaves from the outbuilding. Below me, next to a stone fountain, a sign reading “Carpe Diem” swings in the wind. And that’s what I do. I pick the day. I start with a typical Italian breakfast two houses down.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: “Compact Bronzing Powder” from That’s Me Organic

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For me, bronzing powder is a vacation on the cheeks! Especially after the cold, pale winter months, my skin can really do with a freshness boost. It’s also a healthy alternative to the sun, which is often quite powerful even in spring. The perfect shade If you want to use bronzing powder, it is important to find the right shade for your skin. The best tip is to try out the color – on the back of your hand. This allows you to see how it blends with your skin. To avoid an unnatural look, it is important that the bronzer is not too dark. For a harmonious result, it should be a maximum of two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Bio-Bronzing powder For fans of natural cosmetics, the new sun collection from That’s Me Organic with the mineral bronzing powder made from corn starch is the ideal solution to give your complexion a summery glow. The vegan “Compact Bronzing Powder” gives a beautiful, natural tan with a slight glow without any shine. It has a slightly mattifying effect and can be used in a variety of ways – as a bronzer, eye shadow, eyebrow powder, blush, for contouring and even to conceal grey hairline if the color matches. The bronzing powder contains mineral pigments, plant-based ingredients and other ingredients of natural origin. It is free from chemicals and animal testing and is also Natrue organic certified. It comes in a powder case with mirror, which is packed in a high-quality folding and storage box. How to apply bronzer correctly There are many ways to apply a bronzing powder. For a natural finish, apply it to the face, neck and décolleté and blend it in gently. To visually emphasize facial features, apply it where the sun’s rays would hit the skin – i.e. on the highest point of the cheekbones, on the forehead, the bridge of the nose and the chin. If you want even more highlights, dab a touch of bronzing powder on the eyelids. This is how important the perfect bronzer brush is You should never skimp on the right brush to achieve a beautiful bronzer result. Kabuki brushes are particularly suitable because the round, bushy brush hairs are less flexible and also harder than normal brushes. They therefore pick up the right amount of powder and release it evenly onto the skin. If you prefer a longer handle, choose a special bronzing brush that is large and fluffy so as not to absorb too much of the color.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: New serum “Neo-Serum Concentré Revitalisant” from Payot

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Every woman should use a serum. It is essential for a balanced skincare routine because a serum delivers highly concentrated active ingredients and focuses on specific skin concerns, while the cream that follows ensures that these active ingredients are locked in. The secret of the serum: hand-picked ginkgo leaves The new revitalizing serum takes care of restoring the vitality that the skin loses over time due to stress, fatigue and environmental toxins. To bring the skin back into balance, Payot uses several potent active ingredient experts. First and foremost, a patented substance extracted from Ginkgo biloba leaves. Only the young green leaves are harvested by hand on French farms. They reactivate the immune system and restore the skin’s ability to eliminate senescent cells and reduce the release of harmful factors from these cells. Senescent cells are cells that no longer divide but have not died. They accumulate in the skin with age, which can lead to chronic inflammation and exhaustion of the stem cells. A proven trio of active ingredients Other active ingredients in the new serum include a proven trio of hyaluronic acid, which intensively plumps up the skin and helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The peptide pro-collagen is known for its targeted collagen-boosting and restoring effect. It stimulates the production of collagen fibers at the fibroblast level. Last but not least, niacinamide, a powerful vitamin, inhibits the transfer of melanosomes to keratinocytes. This evens out the skin tone and prevents the appearance of new pigmentation spots. My serum test The “Neo-Serum Concentré Revitalisant” impressed me at first glance with its look and feel. The elegant, green bottle with its satin-finished, intense green pipette cap has a pharmacy touch and is reminiscent of the company founder Dr. Nadia Payot in the 1920s. The color also reflects the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree. The bottle comes in a sturdy, reusable box made of 100 percent recycled paper in dark green. When I apply it, the first thing I notice is the delicate fragrance of the slightly milky liquid. It was developed with the help of neuroscience. Together with the biomimetic texture of the serum, it combines to create a unique, relaxing sensory experience. The pipette dispenses the exact amount of product I need for my face and neck. I apply it morning and evening before my usual skincare cream. My skin immediately feels soft and well cared for.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Hand cream stick “Intense Hand Balm” from Queen of Green

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A hand cream in stick form is something different. But can it also deliver what “Queen of Green” promises? It is supposed to provide intensive care, smooth the skin and even reduce pigmentation spots. It is undisputed that the hand cream and all other products in the “green” collection are plastic-free and vegan. All sticks are packaged in cardboard sleeves instead of plastic. “Plastic used to be a very innovative, great material – in the 1970s. However, in terms of climate protection and climate change, we now need more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives,” says ‘Queen of Green’ founder Julia Schauer. Stick made from certified cardboard The sturdy sleeves in their collection are therefore made from FSC-certified cardboard, which is not only 100% plastic-free, but also 100% biodegradable. This means that the cardboard completely decomposes in compost after around six weeks. The outside of the sticks are printed in a modern floral design using environmentally friendly soy ink. The surface has a silky-matt feel thanks to the fine layer of corn starch with which it is coated. “If you already love my shell, my inner values will really blow you away.” Queen of Green Hand cream in a practical stick It does feel a little strange at first to run a stick over the back of your hand instead of squeezing cream out of a tube. But the contents are really convincing. The texture is pleasantly creamy and spreads easily. It also exudes a naturally delicate fragrance. It covers the skin like a protective glove and nourishes it with jojoba oil and calendula. Brown algae extract smoothes the skin and has an antioxidant effect, while hyaluronic acid visually plumps up the skin. Tropical pracaxi oil is also said to reduce pigmentation spots. Hand cream stick „Ageless Alice Intensiver Handbalsam“ from Queen of Green, 40 grams, 19.95 euros The names are the program The products in the “Queen of Green” collection all have promising names. The hand cream stick, for example, is called “Ageless Alice”. “Helpfull Helena” is a stick for rough areas of the body, while the lip balms are called ‘Rosy Rosalie’ (tinted balm) and ‘Caring Caroline’ (intense lip balm). For the night, there is “Sleepy Sophie”. Anyone wondering what a lip night cream is good for? It provides particularly intensive care and regenerates. Small wrinkles are visually plumped up with natural hyaluronic acid and – incidentally – “Sleepy Sophie” also has a pleasantly soothing lavender scent.… weiterlesen

Knee Pain Is A Common Problem

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Knee pain is a common ailment. This is demonstrated not least by the constantly rising number of knee operations every year. However, Caroline Skuhr, knee expert in orthopaedics at the Marianowicz Center in Munich, explains that in many cases such operations are not at all advisable and how knee pain occurs in the first place. Knee pain can have many causes. Triggers can be Acute accident-related injuries such as bone fractures, capsule injuries, injuries to the ligaments, menisci and cartilage. Today, orthopaedists have very effective conservative treatment methods at their disposal that did not exist a few years ago. Knee pain can be treated effectively “20 years ago, knee problems often meant the end of a career for professional athletes,” says the expert. Things are different today, as treatment has now been revolutionized. First of all, however, the layperson should distinguish whether pain arises spontaneously, for example due to an accident or a recent overload, or whether it intensifies over a longer period of time and at some point simply remains. “In the case of a simple overload, e.g. as an inexperienced hiker, it helps to elevate the knee, cool it or apply a curd compress,” explains Caroline Skuhr. “After an accident, however, a doctor should always be consulted to be on the safe side, especially if there is severe swelling or instability when walking.” The reason: it must be ruled out that the finely tuned mechanics in the knee have been impaired. A knee functions through the interaction of the lower and upper thigh bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, kneecap and in between – as a kind of shock absorber – the menisci. “No two knees are the same,” explains the experienced orthopaedist, ”the statics of each knee are individual, which is why complaints and injuries are very difficult to generalize.” Bioregenerative processes: Nature’s toolbox The good news is: “Basically, knee pain can be treated much better today than just a few years ago” says Skuhr. Bioregenerative procedures in particular, which make it possible to get inflammation in the knee under control, make the difference. Bioregenerative procedures such as autologous blood or stem cell therapy use components of the blood or other endogenous tissue structures to specifically initiate and support healing processes when injected directly into the knee. “They are now often part of any multimodal treatment and are a real game changer in the treatment of knee complaints,” Caroline Skuhr is certain.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Refillable Lip Balm in 4 colors from Typology

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Lip balm is indispensable for me, especially in the colder months. This is because the skin on the lips is particularly sensitive and susceptible to moisture loss and roughness. Due to its low natural ceramide content, the skin barrier in this area of the face is also significantly weaker. Lip care in a sustainable packaging The Lip Balm from Typology can counteract these weak points. It moisturizes the lips for 24 hours and strengthens the skin barrier with ceramides. Hyaluronic acid binds water molecules in the skin and thus achieves a subtle plumping effect. It also helps to smooth dryness lines. Camellia oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids. It nourishes and repairs the lips and supports the preservation of collagen. For the first time, Typology has opted for refillable packaging in its sustainable design. This environmentally friendly solution reduces waste without sacrificing quality packaging. The lip balm comes in a pretty, white cardboard box. Lip Balm with and without color The Lip Balm is available in three delicate shades and an uncolored version. The colorless version “Natural Shine” provides a subtle, glossy finish. “Powder pink” enhances the natural pink tone of the lips. “Rosewood Rosé” is a warm shade for everyday wear, and the cool violet of ‘Plum Violet’ provides a more intense finish. “Tinted lip care tends to be less moisturizing than pure lip care. Our formula combines color and protection to intensely nourish lips and enhance their natural beauty,” says Dr. Victoire Prost, Pharmacist and Product Manager at Typology. Minimalist and versatile The Lip Balm not only ensures smooth and visibly fuller lips, but can also be used on the cheeks as a blush substitute. The opacity of the product can be increased depending on how often you apply it. True to Typology’s credo, 98 percent of the ingredients are of natural origin and the product is vegan. No unnecessary additives are used. Typology is certified by PETA and B-Corp – a sign of ethical and environmentally conscious business practices. „Replenishing Lip Balm” from Typology, US$ 39,90, Refill US$ 29,90 Need more lip care? If you need a little more care, Typology’s lip oil is ideal. It contains squalane, jojoba oil and vitamin E to give the lips a soft color and suppleness. However, you should not expect an intensive coloration of the lips from the seven shades. The tinted oil offers light coverage thanks to its texture.… weiterlesen

My Laser Lift With The Fotona 4D

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Laser lifting with the Fotona 4D is an innovative method that combines the latest laser technologies to tighten the skin from the inside and outside. The aim is to reduce wrinkles and improve facial contours. And it’s painless too. This made me so curious that I wanted to try it out for myself.. During my consultation with Dr. Stefan Duve from the MVZ Haut- und Laserzentrum an der Oper in Munich, I learn the most important cornerstones of laser lift with the Fotona 4D. What is the aim of the Fotona laser lift? Dr. Duve: As with many of these devices that are now on the market, the aim is to tighten the connective tissue. The advantage of the Fotona 4D is that it can be used from the outside and inside using two different laser systems. One is an erbium Yag and the other a neodymium Yag. Ultimately, it is a tightening of weakening connective tissue with the aim of producing new collagen and elastic connective tissue. Do both laser systems always work simultaneously? No. There are a total of four modes for the laser lift that can be set. And the more of these four functions you combine, the better the result. The Fotona has four phases that specifically stimulate the different skin layers: “Smooth” is used in the oral cavity to stimulate the collagen in the cheek area. This leads to tightening from the inside out. “Piano” creates an extensive warming of the skin, which tightens the tissue and promotes the formation of new collagen. “Frac3” targets deeper layers of the skin to reduce minor imperfections such as pigmentation spots or acne scars, and the “SupErficial” mode gently removes the top layer of skin to smooth the skin and create a fresh complexion. However, the fourth mode with the Erbium Yag from the outside is associated with a slight burning of the skin, a kind of deeper peeling. It is therefore often omitted if the treatment is carried out in spring or summer. When does the firming effect occur? As with all these, let’s say, tightening methods, only after several weeks. So you don’t actually see the end result for two to three months. Are there any side effects with the laser lift? You only have to reckon with side effects if you use the fourth mode with the Super-Erbium. This causes crust formation and you have to be careful with the sun.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Foundation stick “On-the-Glow Base” and much more from Pixi

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Foundation stick sounds practical, and I love uncomplicated beauty tools. The Pixi On-The-Glow Base Foundation Moisturizing Stick is easy to hold in its handy, spring-green case and fits into any bag/purse for a quick touch-up on the go. It is ideal for a feather-light and flawless finish. The skin-flattering pigments with their moisturizing ingredients adapt perfectly to your own skin tone and give your complexion a silky glow. After all, that’s what Pixi Beauty is famous for! Nourishing foundation stick In addition, ceramides and antioxidants from sea buckthorn and fruit extracts provide intensive skin care. I use the foundation stick for a subtle glow on the cheeks, bridge of the nose and forehead. First apply day care, then the foundation. You can easily blend it out with your fingertips. I prefer to work it in with a brush that is not too thin. If necessary, you can also use the texture for full coverage. The foundation stick is available in 17 different shades, which can also be mixed together to achieve the perfect skin tone. They have “delicious” names such as: Porcelain, Fair, Cream, Vanilla, Nude, Beige, Warm, Honey, Tan, Nutmeg, Chai, Cinnamon, Caramel, Mocha, Mahogany, Chestnut, Espresso and Cocoa. “On-The-Glow Base” foundation stick from Pixi, $20 More products for the Pixi Glow In addition to the phenomenal foundation stick, the new make-up collection from Pixi also includes two lip products that I’m really excited about. The Pixi “LipTone” is available in six colors. It is a pH-reactive gloss that intensifies and optimizes the natural lip color at the same time. The secret behind it: The pigmented gloss adapts to the skin’s individual pH value and therefore enhances the lip color. The gloss also contains many nourishing ingredients such as rosehip seed oil, shea butter and mango butter. Tangerine extract gives the moisturizing vegan wax-based gloss a pleasant freshness. It makes the lips supple and gives them a beautiful shine. “LipTone” from Pixi, in six colors, $8 Easy-to-use marker-pen for the lips The Pixi “LipBlush” actually feels like a easy-to-use marker-pen in the hand. Its tapered tip allows precise application of the water-based lip color – whether as a complete lip make-up or just as a liner for flawless contours. Thanks to the long-lasting pigments, the intense color stays on the lips all day without drying them out and still has a feather-light texture. This is ensured by moisturizing ingredients. At the same time, the lips are well cared for thanks to vitamin E.… weiterlesen