Skip to main content
Search Results for “make-up”

My new Life on a Thai Island

Written by Melanie RĂŒdiger on . Posted in Culture.

One immediately thinks of white beaches, turquoise sea and cocktails under coconut trees. Melanie RĂŒdiger, a German architect who has drawn to an island in the Indian Ocean for love, reports on the reality in paradise. Why did you emigrate from Germany to Thailand six years ago? That sounds like a clichĂ©, of course, because I met my future husband while on vacation. After my first Thailand trip many years ago, the longing for this country never really left me since. When I learned of an acquaintance who had settled on a small unknown island in the Andaman Sea, I took this as the starting point for a planned island hopping. However, I didn’t get far, because Koh Siboya turned out to be a little paradise, where you just could live for the day and quickly forget all other plans. Low, now my husband, worked at the only resort on the island and immediately caught my eye with his beaming smile and attentive way. We got closer. And how did it continue with the both of you? After the holiday, there were daily video calls and countless WhatsApp messages. On another visit to Thailand he proposed to me and asked if I could imagine living with him on his inherited piece of land. Professionally at that time, I had climbed one of the highest career steps as an architect and project manager. Handling another major project would have been exciting, but it no longer meant a passion. Personally, I had a long, difficult relationship behind me. In short, all of this made the decision easy for me. What does your everyday life in Thailand look like today? One of the biggest challenges for me is that there is no daily routine and I do not have any regular work. Just hanging out in the hammock wouldn’t be my thing. Usually the weather determines which activities take place – if it’s too hot, you can only work outdoors in the early morning, if it’s pouring down, you better not set foot outside the door. Unlike in the Gulf of Thailand you can only swim in the Andaman Sea in the high season, corresponding to the European winter, and on our island only at high tide. So much for the myth of a year-round beach life. Where do you live on the island? The inherited piece of land in the village of Low’s family turned out to be a rubber plantation, which we gradually cleared and cultivated. There… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Washies Faceline

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

What we’ve all learned: What we put on our face in the morning has to be removed in the evening. Because nothing harms the skin more than sending it to bed with make-up. Cleaning wipes and make-up removal products cause waste. If the skin is sensitive, it often reacts with irritation to rubbing it with a cotton pad or facial tissue. A wash pad made of 88 percent of the finest microfibres and 12 percent viscose should enable thorough cleaning – with just water. I wanted to know more about that. Fluffy and sustainable When I take the two-tone pad, mine is white and pink, out of the paper packaging, I am amazed at how soft it feels. As recommended, I moisten it with warm water to activate the effect of the special microfibres. I run the white side over my face in circular motions. The daytime dirt shows up on the washie. And the concealer, I don’t use foundation, leaves brownish marks. The skin appears to be clean. Test: Post-cleaning with a toner proves it. Now it goes to the eyes. Brow powder and normal mascara can be easily removed without rubbing too much. The next day, I raise the bar a little higher and put washies on my waterproof mascara. I press the pad on my eyes for a few seconds. Little loosens. The cleaning process only works with more intensive rubbing. However, the eye area is now slightly reddened and feels dry and tight. Here I would rather use a special eye makeup remover. After each use, the washies should be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water. I do that too. But I don’t want to use them much more than twice and they end up in the washing machine at up to 95 degrees (without fabric softener). As with the classic washcloth, I would be afraid that germs would happily multiply in the damp environment. I’d rather buy myself a weekly ration of washies. Washies Faceline Pads 3 pieces set, ca. 9,74 Euro… weiterlesen

Tested for you: medipharma cosmetics „Hyaluron Mizellen-Reinigungswasser“

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

When micellar tonics hit the market, it was a small revolution in the cleansing routine. The principle is old, soap is also based on it. You throw elongated molecules that are non-polar (water-repellent) on one side and polar (water-friendly) on the other into the polar water, then they form tiny spheres, the micelles (from Latin mica, lump). These act like a magnet by binding dirt and grease to themselves. The molecules contained in modern micellar water are patented surfactants that are particularly fat-dissolving. That is why they cleanse so effectively that you do not have to work on the skin with pressure or friction. A clear deal Indeed it is. I put the clear micellar water (only the bottle is blue!) on a cotton pad and gently run it over the face, neck and dĂ©colletĂ©. It not only smells pleasantly pure and fresh, it also feels that way. Leftovers from my concealer, mascara and brow powder collect on the pad, as do sebum and the dirt from the day. The skin feels fresh and I don’t have to rub it to feel like it’s really cleansed. Double check: Nevertheless, I take another cotton pad and go over the face a second time with the micelle cleaner. The cotton wool stays white. The skin feels clean, moisturized (pharmaceutical hyaluronic acid) and well-groomed (panthenol). Rinse off is not necessary. There is also no feeling of tension, as I know it from other facial toners, because the product does not contain any alcohol. So I can continue with the rest of the day or evening routine immediately. By the way, I have found that make-up brushes can also be perfectly cleaned with it and after applying a self-tanner I use it to clean my hands. For me, “Hyaluronic Micellar Cleansing Water” is not just 3 in 1, but 5 in 1. medicos pharma „Hyaluronic Micellar Cleansing Water“, 200 ml, ca. 11 Euro… weiterlesen

Concealer – One that Can do Everything for You

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in Cream.

For me Concealer is almost as vital in the morning as the first coffee. Slept badly? Then he conjures up the dark shadows from under the eyes. Eaten wrong? Concealer makes red spots disappear. Pimple alarm? Cover and that’s it. But it is also irreplaceable for optical cheating like fuller lips and perfect brows. What he does not forgive, however, are errors in the application. Concealer doesn’t like it when he is visible. He works under cover, so to speak. His look is a no-makeup look. If the concealer is to work invisibly on the face, the right choice of color and texture is essential. Have you got it already? Right. You can’t get by with just one concealer if the “cheating” as such is not to be seen. What you need is a lighter, not too compact version and a darker, but somewhat thicker version. The former should be a shade lighter than your own skin. But: Do not use stubbornly all year round, but always adapt to the season, i.e. the tan! Light can be used against dark circles under the eyes or for small make-up tricks, which we will get to later. A liquid texture or cream that melts gently is easier to blend and pat so thinly into the sensitive skin under the eyes that you don’t have to expect “crumbs” at some point. The face looks fresher in no time, the eyes more alert. For the rest of the face and to cover imperfections, the darker concealer can be a bit firmer, creamier and more covering. So far so good. But to find the right color, it is not enough to choose only between light and dark. If this does not harmonize with the natural undertone of the skin, you can forget it: the concealer looks ashy or stands out unattractively. Warmer skin types should use masking products with a yellow or orange undertone, while cooler skin types with shades of pink are better advised. But how do you recognize your own skin undertone? Take a look at the wrists: if the veins show through bluish / purple, the complexion is rather cool. If they look green, it is a warm undertone. But there are also neutral types that can wear all colors. Their veins shimmer blue-green. Chosen correctly, the concealer will blend seamlessly with the skin. It’s Prime(r) Time Just as a painter primes his canvas, the face must also be prepared for the “application of paint”.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: „Body Cream“ by Dr. Jetske Ultee

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

In the Netherlands, the brand has long been synonymous with high-quality skin care. Behind it is a doctor from Rotterdam, Dr. Jetske Ultee. Another doctor brand, you might say. Yes, but this medical doctor is a research doctor in cosmetic dermatology. In 2009 she started to share her knowledge on her skincare blog and in 2010 introduced her skin care and make-up line Dr. Jetske Ultee. Why did I choose something as unspectacular as a body cream to test out from your comprehensive line?Because it is finally an honest body cream that does not claim to firm up slack tissue, tighten the skin and smooth cellulite – which never works anyway. I also have to agree with Dr. Ultee, who says, “Finding a good body care product with really effective ingredients is quite difficult.“ Simply cream away dry skin And indeed, the body cream is rich, but neither greasy nor sticky. It is unscented, so it smells pleasantly neutral and does not bother you when you apply perfume over it. What I like most is that it keeps my dry skin, especially on my lower legs, smooth all day and prevents flakes from forming. This is due to a high concentration of the liquorice root extract. There is also niacinamide (vitamin B3), one of Dr. Ultees favorite substance, which is also included in her facial care. It not only protects the skin against moisture loss by strengthening the barrier function, but also against damage caused by UV radiation. I use it for the whole body and preferably after showering on the slightly damp and warm skin, because then it has the most lasting effect. And not to forget the price / performance ratio is right too! „Body Cream“ by Dr. Jetske Ultee, 500 ml, ca. 34 Euro… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Augustinus Bader „The Cream Cleansing Gel“

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

I have to admit that I am very benevolent to Professor Augustinus Bader. Not only he is one of the globally recognized leaders in stem cell biology. He is just an outstanding personality, a very humane, responsible person as I found out in an interview with him. As head of stem cell research at the University of Leipzig, he spent 30 years focused on perfecting the healing process and uncovered how to reawaken these cells, which go dormant over time due to aging or trauma. He clearly explains to me what makes many skin care products lie, “that you can’t add stem cells to your skin, you can only wake up the inactive cells in your body.” Professor Bader’s mission started with the intention to help burn victims, particularly children with traumatic injuries. In 2008, he formulated a groundbreaking wound gel that heals even third-degree burns without surgery or skin grafts. It works by carrying a set of healing signals to the site of the wound or burn, triggering the damaged skin cells and facilitating perfect healing. This gave him his idea for skin care with the patented TFC8Âź (Trigger Factor Complex) technology. His approach: what helps damaged skin can only do good skin good.In 2018, he launched a single product – „The Cream“ – with the goal to leave the skin smoother and regenerated. It was followed by “The Rich Cream” and a body cream. A complete care line should be out by the end of this year. Cleansing without feeling tense All Bader products are based on the Trigger Factor Complex (TFC8Âź). It consists of natural amino acids, high-quality vitamins and synthesized molecules that also occur in the skin. This guides important nutrients and powerful natural ingredients into the skin cells, creating an optimal environment for the body’s natural repair and regeneration processes. And because beautiful skin starts with a thorough cleansing, the first thing I decided to do was “The Cream Cleasing Gel”. What comes out of the dispenser in a good dose is a white cream-gel texture. It feels light and fresh on the skin. No fragrances are included. The smell is pleasantly natural, maybe a little „medicinal“. Emulsified with water, it does not develop foam, which I like. The eye and waterproof brow make-up can also be easily removed without burning your eyes. And most importantly, normally my skin tends to feel uncomfortable after cleaning, so I can’t apply a serum or cream quickly enough.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Artdeco „Magic Fix“

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

I am an absolute fan of lipstick. I love orange to bright red. My red lips have always been something like a trademark for me. Therefore, since Corona has been with us, it has been extremely difficult for me to do without it. But who likes smeared lipstick on the mouth and stains of paint in the protective mask if you keep it off. A daunting idea for me. But now I have found something that can help. “Magic Fix” is the name of the solution. It is a liquid that is said to make the lipstick kiss and waterproof. I really wanted to try it out and had a test sample sent to me by Artdeco. To say it in advance: The product does what it promises. Seal your lipstick! So last night I went out in the evening, it was our wedding anniversary, after a long time I put on my favorite red lipstick again. With lipliner and everything that goes with it. As recommended, I then dabbed my mouth with a paper towel and put “Magic Fix” on it. It is a vial with a transparent, aqueous solution that is applied with a brush. According to the package insert, it contains nourshing essential oils like bergamot and lavender oil, plus alcohol. So I quickly spread the fixator over the entire mouth with the small brush, going beyond the lip edge. After all, the contour pencil should also hold well and not smear. At the beginning, something tingles on the lips, that’s what the alcohol does, but it evaporates noticeably quickly. Until then, do not close your mouth, but leave it slightly open. That’s all: the lipstick is sealed in seconds, so to speak. And the look? Nothing has changed. The matte red has been preserved, which also applies to glossy pencils. Then it gets interesting. At home, I do the wipe test with my fingers over my lips. Nothing gets stuck. I put on my mask at the entrance to the restaurant. Now I’m excited. The waiter leads us to our table and I take off the mask. An inquiring look at the inside of the fabric. Absolutely nothing. It is still as pure white as before. The drinks are served. I drink from my glass. There is no imprint on the edge. Then the food comes. Only minimal traces of lipstick remain on the light gray napkin.… weiterlesen

Cosmetics also have an Expiry Date

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in living.

Last year’s sunscreen. The half-used lipstick. The cream that smells unpleasant. All cases for the trash can. As you muck out your wardrobe from time to time, you should also sort out your beauty products more often. Test the smell The basic question is: How do you know whether a product is still usable? First of all, the color. If it has changed, for example in the case of a perfume, then the product should be disposed. Another indication is the smell. As soon as you get a rancid or musty smell in your nose when you open the jar, the expiry date has passed. Even if something settles on the cream or the consistency flocculates, be sure to throw it away. The reason why cosmetics spoil is the same as with food. Germs and bacteria have a particularly easy time with moist products. Cosmetic products consist of a mixture of different oils, water, active substances and preservatives. Through skin contact such as fingers get the little “bad guys” into the product and cause it to “tip over” because the fats it contains become rancid. Look for the open cream jar symbol Icon of the expiry date Every cosmetic product has to have a kind of expiry date. The symbol is an open cream jar with a number indicating the months that the product is stable after opening. Unopened products must be stable for at least 30 months. This requires normal storage conditions, i.e. room temperature and no direct sunlight. Basically you can say that moist and very fatty products spoil faster than dry ones. A high proportion of water ensures that bacteria and microorganisms can multiply faster than in dry textures such as powder. This does not apply to cosmetics with a lot of alcohol (like perfume) because it is a good preservative. Alcohol-containing facial tonic therefore lasts up to three years, all others only two years. Natural cosmetics are often less stable for a long time because they often do without preservation. Incidentally, unless explicitly recommended, the refrigerator is not a good place to store beauty products. Emulsions, in particular, are chilled by the fact that fat and water separate, powders begin to crumble and lipsticks lose their color. To be disposed Mascara – Partially opened, but not used up. The mascara begins to crumble. How comes it? As the brush is constantly moved up and down, air gets into the tube, which dries out the texture.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Lipstick from La Beauté HermÚs

Written by Margit RĂŒdiger on . Posted in #me.

If the fairy godmother gave me a wish for a luxury item, I would commission her with a Birkin Bag. For me, the epitome of luxury. I have already given myself the little luxury – one of the new lipsticks from HermĂšs BeautĂ©. Beauty is a novelty for the traditional house. Pierre Hardy, creative director in the company and responsible for shoes, jewelry and high jewelery, designed the precious object. The journey into the world of beauty startet five years ago. This year the collection of 24 lipsticks, 10 matte and 14 silky gloss, was launched. A refined selection inspired by the mĂ©tiers silk with its infinite number of colors (75,000 shades) and leather (900 tones). Functional aesthetics The tri-color cover alone – brushed gold, black lacquer and an ivory tone – with the HermĂšs signature ex-libris engraved on the curved cap – is supple in the hand. The HermĂšs lettering is engraved in the lipstick. The cover closes with a sonorous clack. And it is an object forever that accompanies you for a long time. Because the lipstick is refillable. This time I chose the color Orange Boite 33. A summerly fresh and sunny orange. It is exactly the shade that I have been looking for for a long time. Its texture is just perfect: nice creamy and yet matt, long-lasting and yet not drying out. A successful debut for La BeautĂ© HermĂšs. I think we can look forward to the next objects. New ones are to be presented every six months. “From make-up to skin care”, says the French traditional company. My only criticism: I find the brown leather case – although it is chic like a Birkin – for about $ 1.700 a little overpriced. Even if it is made in the typical craftsmanship of the luxury house. Rouge HermĂšs lipstick, $ 68… weiterlesen

How Crisis-Proof are Lipsticks now?

Written by Margit Hiebl on . Posted in Culture.

Our author Margit Hiebl tells why she won’t be without her red statement lips, even during the current face mask requirement. She also explains why expensive lipsticks sell particularly well in times of crisis’ like now. Normally I don’t go topless. I mean, without wearing a red lipstick. Even in times of Covid-19. But now I mean, without wearing a face mask. Will this be the timeout for lipsticks? Or just, making it a luxury item for the very special moments? Because, even if all restaurants and bars will be open again – the face mask will be our main accessoiry. And believe me, it doesn’t have a very seductive effect, when taking off the mask for having dinner and your lip-make-up looks as if you already had dinner. For, as known, a lipstick is essential for a lady, especially in difficult times. The „lipstick index“ A phenomenon, which was seen the first time after the economical crisis in the twenties of the last century in the US. Whereas the industrial did nearly halve, the revenue of lipsticks and creams did rise. A similar trend was seen after the financial crisis more than ten years ago. Same pattern after 9/11. And since then the phenomenon gots a name: Whereas stock exchange courses were flying low, sales figures for lipstick did skyrocket. Leonard Lauder, at that time CEO of EstĂ©e Lauder Companies, named this kind of indicator for economical development the “lipstick index”. Little luxury Why do women buy expensive lipstick in hard times? One attempt to explain: When the disposable income goes low in times of economical stagnation and they can’t or won’t spend lots of money for high value purchases, women treat themselves with a bit luxury – e.g. a chic lipstick. In the end, according to a maxim of Holly Golightly, the little-black-dressed New Yorker partygirl from the cult movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, what counts in difficult times: „A girl can’t read that sort of thing without her lipstick“. When the going gets tough – keep going, but not without a lipstick. After all, style is everything, Diana Vreeland said, New York’s socialite and editor in chief of US-Vogue (1963-1971). It helps you getting up in the morning and going down the stairs. It’s a way of living. In a nutshell Why not wearing a kick-ass lipstick in your homeoffice, instead of wearing masks (please do this, as usual, after work or on your weekend).… weiterlesen