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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.

Tested for you: Fermented active ingredients in “The Truth Serum” from SKŌUD

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Fermented active ingredients are not only a top beauty trend and are considered an anti-ageing booster, they are also an absolute game changer in natural cosmetics. In everyday life, we are familiar with the fermentation of foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut and cheese, but also beer and wine to make them more durable. Korean cosmetics manufacturers, who are ahead of us in many beauty areas, have been working with fermented active ingredients in skincare for a long time. The packaging then says something like “galactomyces ferment filtrate”, “bifida ferment lysate” or “saccaromyces ferment filtrate”. What are fermented active ingredients? The fermentation process is a special fermentation process in which organic substances are converted with the help of fungi and bacteria under anaerobic conditions (without oxygen). The conversion work of the microorganisms during fermentation produces many health-promoting substances such as amino acids, vitamins, lactic acids, polysaccharides and beta glucan. A fermented active ingredient also breaks down into smaller molecules and proteins, which improves its bioavailability, i.e. it can be absorbed more easily by the skin. It is also better tolerated as allergenic proteins are partially converted into non-allergenic substances. Most fermented substances also have a lower pH value and naturally ensure a longer product shelf life. Fermented active ingredients not only score with maximum bioavailability, best tolerance even for sensitive skin types and a top shelf life. The amino acids they contain have a firming effect and can promote collagen production. Vitamins act as antioxidants to protect against UV damage, one of the main causes of premature skin ageing. Support for the skin barrier SKŌUD Skin Health is committed to maintaining healthy skin – with natural, innovative ingredients at a high-performance level. Their “Truth Serum” is a holistic 360° multi-defense serum that protects the skin from harmful environmental influences such as UV radiation, blue light or fine dust with its highly concentrated and natural bioactive ingredients. It neutralizes free radicals that can cause irreversible damage to the skin, thereby perfecting the skin’s appearance. To protect the skin barrier, the serum uses biotechnologically obtained moss extract and fermented oats with their skin microbiome-strengthening properties. It also contains the specially developed active ingredient complex AERI5, which homogenizes the skin’s own microbiome and thus also strengthens the skin barrier. My test I not only like SKŌUD’s philosophy, but also the clear, no-frills presentation of the products and their formulation. The serum has a light and cooling texture that makes it suitable for all skin types.… weiterlesen

The 2024 Cruise Index

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Kreuzfahrten sind im Trend. Kein verstaubtes Image mehr, dass nur reiche Oldies sich auf den Schiffen verlustieren. Die Klientel reicht inzwischen von Jung bis Alt, von Singles bis Familien. Wenn Sie in nächster Zukunft eine Kreuzfahrt planen, dann informieren Sie sich jetzt. Kreuzfahrten bieten ein perfektes Gleichgewicht zwischen Bequemlichkeit und Entdeckungen. Sie gewähren ein stressfreies Erlebnis mit Unterkünften, Restaurants und Unterhaltungsangeboten, die sich alle bequem auf dem Schiff befinden, und ermöglichen es den Reisenden, beim Besuch der einzelnen Häfen verschiedene Kulturen und Landschaften kennenzulernen. „Mit schätzungsweise 300 Schiffen, die in diesem Jahr in See stechen, und der Weltreise von Royal Caribbean, die TikTok im Sturm erobert hat, waren Kreuzfahrten noch nie so beliebt wie heute. Die Kreuzfahrtgesellschaften bieten jetzt Reisen zu weit entfernten Zielen an, die oft günstiger sind als die steigenden Kosten für Flüge und Hotels“, erklärt Cody Candee, CEO und Gründer von Bounce. Doch welche Kreuzfahrtlinien und -ziele werden im Jahr 2024 die besten sein? Um das herauszufinden, haben die Reise-Experten von Bounce den Anteil der Aktivitäten für Paare und Familien, die Sehenswürdigkeiten und Wahrzeichen, die Restaurants, die Anzahl der Strände und das Wetter in jeder Destination untersucht. Abgecheckt in dieser Studie wurden auch die besten Kreuzfahrtlinien des Jahres mit der Anzahl der Reiserouten, die Fangemeinde in den sozialen Medien, die YouTube-Abonnenten, die Größe der Flotte jedes Anbieters Rsowie die Passagierkapazität. Zudem wurde die Anzahl der Kabinen des größten Schiffes der jeweiligen Reederei berücksichtigt. Die besten Kreuzfahrtziele Santorin, Griechenland – Bewertung: 8.13/10Als bestes Kreuzfahrtziel 2024 wird Santorin mit 8,13 von 10 Punkten bewertet. Die griechische Insel rangiert in allen Bereichen relativ weit oben – insbesondere beim Anteil romantischer Aktivitäten, der mit 1.839 pro 100.000 Einwohner den zweiten Platz belegt. Auch bei den Familienaktivitäten liegt Santorin mit 958 Angeboten pro 100.000 Einwohner an zweiter Stelle. Cartagena, Spanien – Bewertung: 7.73/10Cartagena liegt auf dem zweiten Platz. Die südspanische Stadt behauptet sich unter den ersten fünf, was die Anzahl der Strände (80) und den Anteil an Sehenswürdigkeiten und Wahrzeichen (489 pro 100.000 Einwohner) angeht. Auch bei den 168 Familienaktivitäten pro 100.000 Einwohner liegt sie unter den Top 10. Cartagena erhält als Kreuzfahrtziel 7,73 von 10 Punkten. Valletta, Malta – Bewertung: 7.55/10Den Abschluss der Top 3 bildet Valletta. Die maltesische Stadt erhält 7,75 von 10 Punkten dank ihres hohen Anteils an Sehenswürdigkeiten und Wahrzeichen (2.579 pro 100.000 Einwohner) und belegt damit den ersten Platz bei diesem Faktor. Aufgrund ihrer geringen Einwohnerzahl liegt sie auch bei der Anzahl der Restaurants mit 31.045 pro 100.000 Einwohnern an erster Stelle.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Gel mask “MAGIC CARE Watermelon Glow Mask” by M. Asam

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I always associate gel masks with refreshment. That’s why I find them an ideal product to complement my usual skincare ritual, especially in summer. With the “Water Melon Glow Mask” from M. Asam, however, I experience a surprise in two respects: First of all, the color. In the jar, the gel mask with a light glitter texture glows red like a freshly cut watermelon and also exudes a deliciously fruity fragrance. And then the feel: on the skin, it has a slightly velvety, oily effect and immediately coats the complexion with a beautiful glow. Gel mask with shimmer texture This magical formula derives its glow from the Wu-Zhu-Yu plant, which is one of the medicinal herbs used in TCM medicine. Watermelon extract moisturizes the skin from within. The product is vegan, the jar is made from compensated plastic “Plastic Net-Zero/plasticbank”. The mask fulfills a wide range of skin care needs: Pre-aging, anti-aging, wrinkles and lines, loss of elasticity. When I use it, I am rewarded with an extraordinary skin care experience. The complexion appears better supplied with blood, it looks revitalized and radiant. This was also confirmed by the test subjects (30) of a small study commissioned by M.Asam in April 2022. The answers stated: “My skin feels supple and soft” (87 percent) or “My skin appears well supplied with blood” (83 percent). For more glow during the day I used the gel mask twice a week. On a cleansed face, of course.I prefer to apply masks with a wide brush like the beautician does. This makes it easier to spread the product and the layer is evenly distributed all over the face. But you can of course also use your fingers. After about 15 minutes, I gently removed the residue with a damp cloth. I prefer to use the watermelon mask in the morning, provided I have enough time. The advantage is that my complexion then glows on its own and I don’t need another glow product. Another step saved! „MAGIC CARE Watermelon Glow Mask“ from M. Asam , 30 ml, 14,99 Euro… weiterlesen

Tested for you: New collagen series “Collagen Serum” and “Collagen Night Cream” from Doc.Berger/effect

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Collagen has become an integral part of modern skincare. But what makes this substance an IT ingredient in anti-ageing skincare? Quite clearly. As a so-called structural protein, collagen provides our skin and connective tissue with firmness and elasticity. At 30 percent, it is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is mainly produced from the amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. As is unfortunately the case with so many important substances for the skin, the production of the body’s own collagen also decreases with increasing age. The consequences are visible: the skin loses elasticity and wrinkles appear more frequently. Collagen serum with lifting effect The “Collagen Serum” was developed by the plastic surgeon Dr. Luise Berger from Munich. It is designed to intensively hydrate and visibly plump up the skin. To achieve this, she uses an innovative collagen-hyaluron complex – Desamido Collagen. This is a special form of collagen that is processed in such a way that it can be absorbed much more easily by the skin. Due to its unique structure, it can penetrate into deeper layers and develop its regenerative and firming properties there. In this way, the natural regeneration of skin cells is supported, resulting in improved elasticity and firmness. Other ingredients in the serum: a special amino acid complex (Prodew® 600), argan stem cell extract and betaine, which is known for its ability to attract and retain moisture. Argan stem cells are extracted from argan trees that grow in the dry, desert-like regions of Morocco. They are known for their robustness, which enables them to survive even in such extreme climatic conditions. The extract obtained from them is considered an innovative and highly effective active ingredient in skin care. These stem cells have the ability to increase the vitality of skin cells and extend their lifespan. My test I applied the serum consistently in the morning and evening. 2-3 drops are enough for the face and neck. It is pleasant on the skin and absorbs quickly. It is important that the skin has fully absorbed the serum before continuing with your skincare routine. I also apply the serum under my eyes to plump up my dryness lines. That works too. However, the real effects can only be assessed after six weeks of use at the earliest. Unfortunately, the Serum from Doc.Berger/effect doesn’t last that long. This is also the only thing I have to criticize about the product.… weiterlesen
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Tested for you: Cooling Duo „Kühlendes Körperspray“ + „Hyaluron Körpergel“ from Susanne Kaufmann

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A cooling duo for the body is essential in summer temperatures. In my adopted home of Italy, Tuscany, the thermometer has been reading a little under 40 degrees every day for weeks. So the cooling duo from Susanne Kaufmann was just what I needed. Cooling duo of body spray and body gel This light body spray is ideal for cooling heated skin. It provides a cooling sensation thanks to menthol and horse chestnut extract. The hydrating care formula not only refreshes our outer skin, but also our senses. The super fresh 100 percent natural fragrance consists of citronella, eucalyptus, lavender and sage oils. The spray has a perfect travel size and is therefore also ideal for on the go – to enjoy a little cool-down in between or to revitalize tired legs. From now on, I always have the cooling spray with me on long walks with my dog. I apply the spray generously all over my body in the morning and top up as needed during the day. Important: Shake the bottle well before each use and do not spray the liquid on your face. Cooling down with Hyaluron The refreshing body gel cools, soothes the skin and provides it with immediate and intensive moisture. It contains a special combination of three hyaluronic acid molecules of different sizes, which make the body look smoother and plumper in an instant, leaving it feeling soft and well cared for. Hyaluronic acid is an endogenous substance that also occurs naturally in human tissue and helps it to retain moisture. I also like to use the gel after spending time in the sun to soothe my skin and replenish its moisture stores. In addition to the hydrating hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and balloon vine extract strengthen the natural barrier function, while cooling menthol soothes when skin is tight, irritated or hot to the touch. Whenever I feel my skin could do with a moisture booster, I apply the gel before a rich body cream. Susanne Kaufmann „Kühlendes Körperspray“, 75ml, 35 Euro, “Hyaluron Körpergel“, 100 ml, 57 Euro About Susanne Kaufmann In 1994, Susanne Kaufmann took over the Hotel Post in Bezau from her mother at the age of just 23. With her spa in the hotel, she realized a vision: she wanted to create a place dedicated to holistic well-being. With her knowledge and expertise, she has designed a spa that combines traditional practices and modern treatments.… weiterlesen

Niacinamide Is Considered A Power Substance For Your Skin

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Niacinamide creams and serums are currently in the highest demand in drugstores and perfumeries and always sell out the fastest. They are experiencing an absolute run among female consumers. But men also benefit from niacinamide for enlarged pores, spots and wrinkles. Niacinamide is considered a power ingredient. From Nivea to luxury skincare brands such as Dr. Barbara Sturm, no brand today can do without it. Anyone who deals with dietary supplements is sure to have come across the substance niacin. This is vitamin B3 (the chemical name for vitamin B3 is niacin). Niacin is converted into niacinamide in the body and is therefore an important precursor of two co-enzymes of radical importance for the body’s health: NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These two co-enzymes boost the energy of cells and are involved in more than 200 vital enzymatic reactions. It has been scientifically proven that these two co-enzymes decrease with increasing age, particularly in skin tissue. This decline is linked to cell senescence. Aged skin cells secrete less collagen: Niacinamide could help to boost production again. Ageing skin damaged by sunlight can also benefit from this. Niacinamide in serums and creams In skin care, the term niacinamide or nicotinamide is used. Niacinamide is a derivative of vitamin B3, which means that it has a slightly different chemical structural formula to niacin. In the cosmetic field, the water-soluble vitamin B3 derivative is increasingly being mixed into serums or creams. It is considered a remedy for many of the most common problems that can arise from stress, but also from over-care of the skin. Niacinamide is characterized by five important benefits in skin care: It is a “cell-communicating” ingredient that helps to strengthen the building blocks of the skin barrier – ceramides and keratin. Improving the barrier makes the skin more resistant to external influences. An increased ceramide level means that moisture can be stored better. This in turn improves the texture of the skin. It looks plumper and feels softer. As the vitamin B3 derivative regulates melanin production, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tones can be reduced. The complexion looks healthier and less dull as niacinamide counteracts the glycation process that contributes to collagen breakdown. It has a kind of blurring effect: its anti-inflammatory properties not only help to reduce redness and small imperfections, it can also reduce dark circles under the eyes. The power in gredient can also reduce the size of pores and improve the appearance of blackheads.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: so wilde – colorful Band-aids from “Wild Stripes“

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Colorful band-aids are a great invention. Haven’t you often been annoyed by the boring brown ones or the white plasters that look scruffy in no time at all? With Wild Stripes, color finally comes into everyday (injury) life. It’s anything but pleasant and annoying anyway if you get a cut or graze, which unfortunately happens to me all the time. It’s usually my dog’s fault with his exuberant energy. I used to have to bring unusual colorful band-aids from America. Now they are finally available here. From now on, treating cuts and grazes need never be boring again. Thank you, Wild Stripes! Colorful band-aids – wild stripes The colorful little helpers from Wild Stripes are not only an eye-catcher, but also have all the qualities that such a product must have. They are reliable, hygienic and provide perfect, long-lasting protection for the wound. I can get by with one stripe for up to 24 hours and can carry out my everyday tasks without any problems – even with frequent contact with water. Wild Stripes are water-resistant and offer protection against dirt and bacteria. The material, a thin, flexible fabric, is extremely comfortable to wear and allows the skin to continue to “breathe” under the bandage. There is a huge selection of innovative plasters for every type and size of ailment and for every taste. Whether stylish, playful or in a wild leo print. You can match the wound protection to your outfit or mood. Nothing is left to be desired. From Classic to Finger Flexi The collection of the wild stripes, all of which are EU-compliant medical devices, comprises four categories: Classic Sensitive is available in two designs: Animal in a zebra, leo and tiger look and Fashion with a check, floral, zig-zag or paisley look. Both offer stylish protection for small wounds and are hypoallergenic and skin-friendly. The Classic Sensitive Animal plasters are water-resistant and can be worn for up to 24 hours. Kids Sensitive comforts the little ones with imaginative adventures and unicorn rides over the pain. There are two different designs to choose from: Space and Fantasy. The stripes are perfect for protecting small wounds and cuts from dirt and bacteria. They offer a super-strong hold and can still be removed completely painlessly. Waterproof Secure Rainbow are the ideal wound protection, especially in summer when you are going to the pool or beach. The plasters are 100 percent waterproof and have a particularly strong adhesive strength.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: “Sun Protection Powder” SPF 50 by Jean D’Arcel

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Sun protection powder is an extremely practical invention of the beauty industry, in my opinion. Sun protection is not an option, but a must if you want to keep your skin beautiful. After all, the sun’s UV rays are scientifically proven to be the main cause of visible signs of skin ageing and the development of hyperpigmentation and an uneven complexion. This doesn’t just apply when it’s warm outside and the sun is blazing down from the sky. Even on a gray and rainy day, the skin is exposed to damaging UV rays, which gradually make the symptoms of photoaging visible. To fully protect the skin, you should therefore use adequate sun protection every day. Sun protection powder offers several advantages By now, (almost) everyone has understood that we should apply our sun cream in the morning as part of our skincare routine. But what we often forget is the fact that the protective effect wears off over the course of the day – and needs to be refreshed. But especially if you wear make-up, this can be difficult with a product in cream form and look smudged. “The Sun Protection Powder” from Jean D’Arcel is ideal for refreshing your sun protection. It is also perfect for on the go with its integrated mirror in the lid of the clean, white box and a sponge in the bottom compartment. In addition to UV protection, it has two other beauty plus points: It mattifies and perfects the skin’s appearance. Perfect finish with two shades The sun protection powder comes in two shades: No.1, a lighter shade, and No.2, a darker version. As I never wear make-up, I use both. The soft texture with SPF 50 sun protection factor is easy to apply with the sponge and spreads evenly. I use the lighter powder to mattify for a flawless finish. I use the darker shade for contouring, which replaces blush or bronzing powder. And my skin is also well protected, as the high-tech formulation with UVA and UVB filters is effective against premature ageing and cell damage caused by light. The product is also paraben- and fragrance-free. „Sun Protection Powder“ SPF 50 from Jean D’Arcel, 9,5 g, 29,50 Euro Dermal Add-On Fluid SPF 50+ For a longer stay in the sun, additional care with a sun protection factor is recommended, also good to use as a make-up base. The very high, non-greasy add-on sun protection from the Arcelmed medical line protects the skin with SPF 50+ against all negative external influences such as UVB rays, car exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke or industrial environmental toxins.… weiterlesen

Carner Barcelona: Art And Perfumery Come Together

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Carner Barcelona conveys the modern and vibrant spirit of Barcelona with its perfumes. Sara Carner and her brother Joaquim, descendants of a long family of leather craftsmen, founded the brand in 2010. Since then, they have developed many exclusive fragrances. The latest is called “Helix” and is the fifth fragrance in the Mediterranean Collection. For “Helix”, Carner Barcelona was inspired by the work of the famous Catalan artust Riera i Aragó (Barcelona, 1954. )For the packaging, he designed a unique work of art (75.5 x 56 cm) that visually presents the essence of Helix. He says: “With a deep blue that evokes the mystery of the sea and a golden propeller that symbolizes the magic of the unknown, this piece expresses the human desire to discover new worlds.” The new Helix fragrance of Carner Barcelona with notes of bergamot, peach, cedar and a marine breeze belongs to the floral-woody family. The unisex perfume combines the gentle sea breeze of a summer’s day with sweet fruits and Mediterranean flowers. “Riera i Aragó’s work, full of color, optimism and vitality, transports me to the Mediterranean. Creating a perfume inspired by his art, especially the symbolism of his propeller, was an absolute joy,” says Sara Carner. In my interview with Sara, the Carner Barcelona founder reveals even more about herself, her work and her beloved home city of Barcelona, which is definitely worth a trip if you don’t know it yet. MR: My first fragrance of Carner Barcelona was D 600. Where does the name come from? Sara: The name stands for Diagonal nº600, which is the address of Carner Barcelona’s first studio. It is a perfume full of character and with a surprising evolution on the skin. It captures the vibrant and cosmopolitan spirit of the city. If you took me around Barcelona, which three places would you show me? Difficult question! There are so many fantastic places to visit in Barcelona. Beyond the iconic landmarks like La Pedrera, Casa Battló, Park Guell, and Sagrada Familia (which are must-visits themselves), for me, an ideal day in Barcelona starts with a serene stroll along Carretera de les Aigües, where the breathtaking vistas of Barcelona unfold beneath your feet. Walking along Paseo de Gracia is also magical! A mix of luxury stores with local businesses along one of the most beautiful streets in Barcelona. You can also find our Flagship Store there on C/Diputació with Paseo de Gracia, where you will be able to experience, in my opinion, the best of what the Mediterranean has to offer.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Mantle, the somewhat different skincare from Sweden

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Mantle, the brand new Scandinavian brand (in Germany since June of this year) has made me curious. Everything about it is different to what we journalists are used to from beauty brands, where the emphasis is always on visual perfection and pure aesthetics in presentation. The name Mantle is unusual in itself, an allusion to the skin’s protective acid mantle. The company was founded in 2020 by technology pioneer Josefin Landgård and brand expert Stina Lönnkvist. They are committed to individuality, expressiveness and ageing with grace – all through the development of clean and clinical formulations. Mantle’s multifunctional skincare contains a high proportion of biomimetic substances such as extracts from aloe vera, fermented mushrooms, fruit enzymes from mango or pomegranate and vegetable oils from oats and chia seeds. Mantle likes it weird At Mantle, individuality is also expressed in the product and mood photos. There are crushed, smeared tubes and bottles. The models make weird faces when applying the products. Mantle not only wants to change our skin, but also our view of beauty. “With Mantle, we want to change the image of beauty and encourage women to accept life and the marks it leaves on our skin. In a world obsessed with perfection and anti-ageing, we stand for individuality, personality and ageing with joy,” explains Josefin Landgård, who previously co-founded a successful technology company in the healthcare sector. For my test, I chose two products from Mantle – one for the face and one for the body. I wanted to find out whether the brand can handle both “regions”. The Smoothing Serum, the elasticity booster The pink texture in the pipette bottle is unusual for a serum; most serums are clear. The elasticity booster contains three clinically tested peptides: Argireline Peptide, Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl Synthe’6. The three work synergistically, i.e. hand in hand, to visibly plump and smooth the skin, stimulate collagen production and significantly improve elasticity. Argireline Peptide: This powerful peptide visibly plumps up wrinkles and increases the skin’s elasticity, resulting in a smoother complexion. Matrixyl 3000 reconstructs the extracellular matrix to visibly smooth wrinkles and helps reduce inflammation. Matrixyl® Synthe’ 6 boosts collagen production for even more elasticity and a smoother complexion. In addition, hyaluronic acid helps the skin to retain moisture, making it plump, elastic and supple. I apply the serum to cleansed skin in the morning and evening. The texture is soft and smooth and absorbs quickly.… weiterlesen