Sandra‘s Closet

Let’s celebrate the 20 year anniversary of Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle. Born in the year 2000, as the result of Frédéric Malle’s mission to restore the dignity of haute parfumerie. A desire to return to the fundamentals of the craft: its authors, the perfumers, their expertise, exceptional ingredients, and an artistic approach to perfumery. Born into the world of perfume (his grandfather was the founder of Parfums Christian Dior) and with more than thirty years of experience behind him, Frédéric Malle is the world’s greatest perfumery expert. The greatest perfumers in the world have placed their confidence in him, joining forces with him in this venture, delighted at the opportunity to exercise total creative freedom, and to be able to sign their work with their own name. No marketing brief. The freedom to compose: no restriction on either quantity or quality of ingredients. Freedom from time constraints: no schedule; all that counts is the excellence of the result.

Why «Editions de Parfums»? Because Frédéric Malle works with perfumers the same way a literary editor works with his authors. Since they speak the same language and share technical expertise, Frédéric Malle is able to push perfumers to give their very best. They interact on a technical and an artistic level—no brief, no images, no following trends or targeting consumers.

Frédéric Malle’s design for the bottles.

Once finished, the perfumes are presented in a neutral flask, in elegant packaging reminiscent of the book covers of Gallimard—the most celebrated French publishing house—bearing evocative names such as Portrait of a Lady, Carnal Flower, Musc Ravageur, En Passant, Vétiver Extraordinaire, French Lover, Dans Tes Bras…. All signed by the greatest perfumers in the profession, including Dominique Ropion, Jean-Claude Ellena, Pierre Bourdon, Carlos Benaïm, Maurice Roucel and Edmond Roudnitska.

Frédéric Malle and his famous noses

For Frédéric Malle, perfumes are far more than a fashion accessory or a way to promote a brand image. Beyond ensuring the excellence of every juice, his ambition is to enable everyone to find the perfume or perfumes that perfectly suit their personality. To aid in this discovery, the advisors who staff the boutiques are Perfume Experts, qualified to give personalized consultations. Their goal is to help customers find the perfume in the collection that suits them best. Because these perfumes are all different, each one unique, they offer the greatest freedom of choice and expression for everyone, depending on their current desires, the season, their way of life, or even their next rendezvous. An invisible but powerful way to express one’s style and singularity.

Inside Frédéric Malle’s first boutique at 37 rue de Grenelle in Paris.

On June 6, 2000, Frédéric Malle opened his first Paris boutique at 37 rue de Grenelle. At a time when the self-service sale of perfumes was on the rise, Malle chose to open a boutique that would provide a luxurious setting for the perfumes he «publishes,» and to make sure to offer each visitor a personal experience. This pioneering boutique, conceived by architect Andrée Putman and Frédéric Malle, is a hybrid space combining the aesthetics and intimate comfort of a Parisian interior with the expertise of a perfume laboratory.

«Smelling columns» 

The boutiques of Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle, each with its own distinctive architecture, offer a series of interpretations of this overarching idea—at once a welcoming apartment and a perfume laboratory, where you will find the same iconic features of the house: portraits of perfumers in the style of the photos of authors found in bookstores, refrigerated cabinets in which the flasks of perfumes are kept at just the right temperature (as in a laboratory), consultation spaces, and the famous and unique «smelling columns.» A patented design by Frédéric Malle himself, the smelling columns are like olfactive mirrors, allowing one to experience the complete tableau of a perfume, its entire sillage. Each in their own way, the boutiques express their founder’s quest for aesthetics, functionality, and an avant-garde approach.
As a designer, renowned expert, and art lover, Frédéric Malle heads up the design of each boutique personally, working with carefully chosen architects.

Jakob + MacFarlane and Frédéric Malle joined forces to defy the laws of nature with a sea of floating islands, suspended in time and space inside their Paris store, 13 Rue des Francs Bourgeois.

2020 marks a historic date for the house: Twenty years of audacity and creativity. Twenty years of shifting paradigms in the exacting world of perfumery. From today, and for the rest of the year, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle will share a series of events to celebrate this anniversary.

This week marks a new step for the house with the opening of its first boutique in China, at Shanghai’s luxurious IFC Mall, as well as a counter to open soon afterwards at SKP in Beijing. These two sales outlets see the debut of a new concept, with resolutely modern architecture, redesigned «smelling columns» with enhanced functionality, and an interactive tool to help customers select their perfume. EDPFM’s powerful fusion of ideas brought together in a new experiential space, to be rolled out internationally over the coming months.

Special Instagram Live streams will take place @fredericmalle, a window into the artistic, cinematic, and cultural influences of the founder. The perfumers of Editions de Parfums will be honored and will freely share their knowledge and their thoughts in live conversations. From September, you can also flick through the Editions online, with the launch of its new digital magazine.

Returning from the summer vacation, the house will present an entirely new Limited Edition of its iconic flasks and perfumes, restyled in anniversary colors. Seven of the most popular perfumes from the collection will be presented in new flasks, their cases elegantly clad with a frieze that tells the story of twenty years of creation.

She is languid in the bath, as on a chaise longue, as though she is taking in the sun, as though taking in Bizet, a glint with water and steam, maybe with a book in her hands, surrounded by billowing clouds of foam. Alone, of course—this is a private pleasure. She sinks into the voluptuous waters: a generous measure of rose and a mixture of amber, patchouli, and sandalwood, one might think the scent was carved in her likeness. She abandons herself to it, and it to her. She loves the intimate resonance of its perfume, dream-distilled. Perhaps it is she who is scenting the waters.

And she steps out reborn from the spume, trailing the note of this suspended moment.

The newest product you shouldn’t miss is this new addition to Editions de Parfum Frédéric Malle’s bestseller created by Dominique Ropion and Frédéric Malle:

Portrait of a Lady – The Foam Bath
Available now for €110.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY

Top Note: Rose
Middle Notes: Blackcurrant, Raspberry, Clove
Base Notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Frankincense

TO SHOP LES EDITIONS de PARFUMS FREDERIC MALLE ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Les Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

A decade ago, LA MER made a promise to come together in support of the ocean. Being entirely committed to protecting marine habitats around the world in in hopes to ensure future flourishing seas for generations to come, LA MER launched the BLUE HEART OCEANS FUND to further the brand’s initiatives, which help support ocean conservation efforts around the world. This year, LA MER is funding organizations that focus on educating future generations by empowering them to become change agents in their local communities.

It is a success story. In the past 15 years, LA MER has donated over $5 million and has helped to support the protection of 16 million miles of unique marine habitats across the globe.

Each year, the luxury brand presents a new jar for its hero product, the famous and iconic Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream, that deeply soothes and moisturizes to help heal dryness and leave skin looking naturally vibrant. The packaging for the 2020 Limited Edition Blue Heart Crème de La Mer is characterized by a shimmering hand-painted watercolor drawing inspired by the rippling waves of sparkling seas. The limited edition is available now for CHF 500 (100ml). Important to know is that buying the product has no impact on the donation.

If you like to participate in the the LA MER BLUE HEART mission and I would love to encourage you to do so, post a picture on Instagram (your profile needs to be public) using both hashtags, #LaMerBlueHeart and #LaMerDonation. LA MER will donate $25 for each post, up to $550,000, to the LA MER BLUE HEART OCEANS FUND to support its youth awareness projects on ocean conservation.

In the journey to protect the living connection we all have to the ocean, we know that even small acts of participation can make a huge impact. Tomorrow is World Oceans Day – stay tuned for my post dedicated to preserving our environment.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of LA MER and © Sandra Bauknecht

For this photoshoot, «Fragrances under confinement» Jean Paul Gaultier tasked photographer Gorka Postigo, a regular collaborator with the brand, to make «at-home» content, without any outside elements in order to respect the actual confinement situation that we were currently facing.
This consisted of staging the Gaultier fragrances; Classique and Le Mâle, La Belle and Le Beau as well as Scandal in a portrayal of what makes daily life for millions of people during confinement. Hygiene, at – home work outs, home cleaning, cooking, reading in afternoon, one-on-one dinners, movie nights and social distancing security during the «essentials» going out.

I am very thankful that our lives are coming back slowly to normal… Those photos are so cute I had to share them as a wonderful memory of lockdown.

LoL, Sandra

Pictures by ©Gorka Postigo @jpgaultierofficial
#AtHomeWithGaultier #LeMale #Classique #LaBelle #LeBeau #GaultierGarden #BeScandal #JeanPaulGaultier 

Move into the light and experience the rainbow prismatic magic of OPI’s Hidden Prism Collection for Summer 2020. Paint a pastel rainbow with 12 new colors in different formulas that will leave nails radiating in the sunlight with glitter finishes, and glowing in the moonlight with shiny iridescence. In this collection, electric hues get a sun-washed finish.

Vibrant pastels in pink and purple add a dreamy gleam to fingers and toes. Poolside shades of blue and green evoke nostalgia for long summer days, and subdued, shimmery oranges and corals give a nod to hot days and warm nights.

«These 12 shades offer a modern evolution of the classic primary rainbow,» remarks OPI Co-Founder and Brand Ambassador, Suzi Weiss-Fischmann. «Unique iridescent glitters and shimmer pigments give added depth and dimension to a kaleidoscope of color.»

Six of the Hidden Prism Collection shades will be available in GelColor and Nail Lacquer (CHF 19.90) formulas, including:

Ray-diance
Prism play of hypnotic light create a glittery yellow worth flaunting.
Magic Hour
Time to unwind and enjoy this sun setting orange..
She’s a Prismaniac
Crazy over prisms and ready for a glitter manicure? THINK PINK!
Rainbows A Go Go
Pause for the perfect pick-me-up purple for anyone on the go-go!
Pigment of My Imagination
Blue Hue? Is that really you?
Gleam On!
Try this glistening green –it’s pure magic!

The collection’s other six hues will be exclusively available in Infinite Shine (CHF 24.90) formula, including:

Coral Chroma
Fling your nails into chromatic charisma with this shimmering orange.
Optical Illus-sun
Solar rays lock in warm shimmer for the perfect ‘hot’ manicure.
Your Lime to Shine
Droplets of juicy citrus create the ultimate quench for summer nails.
Prismatic Fanatic
A new cool hue designed to make summer shimmer.
Feeling Optiprismic
Violets give this prismatic purple some priority.
Rainbows in Your Fuchsia
Pink goes bold to remind us that we are all unique.

GelColor provides a salon-perfect finish with up to three-week wear, while Infinite Shine offers a high-shine finish and traditional lacquer application. Nail Lacquer features a highly-pigmented, rich formula for even application without streaking. In stores Mid June 2020.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © OPI and © Sandra Bauknecht

Only one day left to receive 30% off your order on www.bobbibrown.ch with code SANDRA30.

The promotion is valid for every item available on the website. To give you some final inspiration, have a look at the new and highly limited Summer Glow Collection that I personally adore. From a golden highlighter to himmery shadows, this collection is perfect for creating the carefree sun kissed look of the season. In my make-up tutorial I used some of the products, click here please to see the details.

Crushed-Oil Infused Gloss

Lip-quenching moisture meets super-smooth shine in this lip gloss with nutrient-rich botanical oils, now in summery shades designed to complement a sun-warmed complexion.

Sunkissed
Pink Sunset
CHF 37.00

Bronzing Duo

Create a just-back-from-vacation glow with this matte and shimmery bronzing duo, in a go-anywhere compact.

Golden Light / Antigua
Medium / Telluride
CHF 53.00

Precise Blending Brush

Get your best glow with this curved brush designed to hug the contours of your face.

CHF 57.00

Highlighting Powder

The bestselling highlighter in limited-edition Warm Gold leaves skin with a high-impact, ultra flattering sheen.

Warm Glow
CHF 69.00

Dual-ended Long-wear Cream Shadow Stick

Complimentary eye shadow shades that define and highlight eyes with shimmering pigmented colour for all day wear

Golden Pink
Golden Bronze
CHF 44.00

Have a lovely weekend!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Bobbi Brown
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored by Bobbi Brown.
#BBGirlCrush #BobbiBrownCH #BobbiBrown #BBSummerGlow

Today marks a premiere. I uploaded my first make-up tutorial on IGTV. As I didn’t want to bore you with a lengthy video, I put it on fast mode and wrote down all the details, for those who are interested, here in this post.

Great news is that you can buy all those products with a 30% discount using the code SANDRA30 at www.bobbibrown.ch. More info at the end of this blog post. I hope that you will like. Please let me know if I should do more of those tutorials.

FACE
Extra Illuminating Moisture Balm in Bare Glow
Intense Skin Serum Foundation SPF 40 in Beige
Instant Full Cover Concealer in Beige

My personal take on foundation:
Hydrate your skin very well before applying your foundation. In general, I do my skincare regime at least 20-30 minutes before starting my make-up to let the products sink in well. The Extra Illuminating Moisture Balm gives it this little extra kick of moisture right before the start and keeps you glowing the whole day long (you’ll thank me forever for this product, promised). The Intense Skin Serum Foundation SPF 40 is extremely luxurious, lightweight and easy to be applied. Personally speaking, I love to use my fingers as I find it much easier to blend the product in with the warmth of my touch. Just add a little concealer under the eyes or wherever you personally need it.

BROWS
Brow Kit in Dark
Perfectly Defined Long-Wear Brow Pencil in Rich Brown
Natural Brow Shaper & Hair Touch Up in Brunette

My personal take on brows:
When I am doing a natural make-up, I prefer filling in the brows lightly with a pencil and just add some depth with the brow powder. Use the brow gel to fix them all day long. This magical product also works to cover grey hair.

EYES
Long-Wear Eye Pencil in Jet
Essential Multicolor Eye Shadow Palette in Burnished Bronze
Smokey Eye Mascara in Black
Angle Eyeshadow Brush and Eyeshadow Brush

My personal take on eyes:
For a light eye make-up, I love to contour my eyes with an eye pencil that I blend afterwards very well with some neutral eyeshadows that I apply over it. This defines the shape of the eyes without being too bold. Blending is the key to success when it comes to eye makeup. Use the darker shade in the outer corner of the eye and the eyelid crease. Work yourself up with the lighter shades. I love to put a light shade in the inner corner of the eye for a highlighting effect.

CHEEKS
Bronzing Powder in Natural
Bronzing Powder Duo Summer Glow Collection in Golden Light / Antigua
Highlighting Powder Summer Glow Collection in Warm Glow
Bronzer Brush and Precise Blending Brush

My personal take on cheeks:
For a fast make-up, I love contouring with bronzers which is very easy and the best way to achieve this summer glow. To make your cheekbones really pop, swipe a line of Bronzing Powder from your ear to the apple of your cheek using the Bronzer Brush. Don’t forget to always tap off the excess before applying the product. I personally add it also to the edges of my forehead, close to my hairline and my nose tip. This depends on your own facial structure. You might for example also swirl in concentric circles from the base of your jaw all the way to your chin. Then add a blush, I used Antigua from the Bronzing Powder Duo. A rosy cheek makes the whole look seem natural and soft. So with the Precise Blending Brush swirl it over the apples of your cheeks, blending in small circles up to your temples. Then add some Highlighting Powder under the  outer edge of your eye. This helps banish dark circles, since it diffuses any darkness underneath your eyes and creates a soft-focus effect. A natural-looking contour requires hardcore blending. Therefore I blend everything again in the end.

LIPS
Lip Pencil in Pale Pink
Luxe Lip Color in Bare Pink
Crushed Oil Infused Gloss in Love Letter

My personal take on lips:
I always love to contour my lip completely with a light pink Lip Pencil to give it a nice shade. Then I apply Luxe Lip Color to make it last. The new Crushed Oil Infused Glosses are truly amazing, so comfortable providing your lips with hydration and shine. Perfect for those summer looks.

IF YOU PLACE YOUR ORDER BETWEEN MAY 18 – 25, 2020 WITH THE CODE SANDRA30, YOU WILL RECEIVE A 30% DISCOUNT ON EVERYTHING.

Then, grab your phone, take a selfie, and brag about your newfound bone structure and make-up skills to anyone who will listen.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored by Bobbi Brown.
#BBGirlCrush #BobbiBrownCH #BobbiBrown #BBSummerGlow

Let us dream a little of careless summer days with this new make-up collection by CHANEL. It’s the promise of an airy and dazzling warm season. The delicious caress of sunlight on skin beaded with seawater. A feeling of freedom, instilled by a sailboat gliding along the coast against the Mediterranean. Inspired by the relaxed lifestyle of the French Riviera, LES BEIGES sets sail this season with an exclusive collection: SUMMER OF GLOW.

LES BEIGES SUMMER OF GLOW shakes up summer with a powerful breeze of freedom. Luminous, it is an infusion of beloved summer light. Delectable warmth on the skin. Lightweight, inspired by the aura and free spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel, this new collection has only one goal in mind: a sun kissed healthy glow that seems revived by the great outdoors.

Lips and eyes are illuminated by warm shades with coral shimmers and energy that shines down to the fingernails in summery colors.

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW ILLUMINATING POWDER
EXCLUSIVE CREATION – LIMITED EDITION
CHF 75.00

LES BEIGES began with foundation. This season, LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW ILLUMINATING POWDER comes in two shades. Playing with shadows and light, the powder subtly intensifies the features and enhances natural beauty. Lightweight and airy, it gives the complexion a discreet glimmer, accentuated by luminous pigments with golden shimmers. To preserve this instant healthy glow, the formula is completed with hydrating and antioxidant kalanchoe extract.

It can be applied spontaneously in one stroke, at any time of day, with the help of its large mirror and half-moon brush.
Available in 2 shades: Sand – medium light or Sunset – intense

LES BEIGES SHEER HEALTHY GLOW HIGHLIGHTING FLUID
CHF 63.00

A delicately iridescent complexion enhancer, LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW HIGHLIGHTING FLUID lights up face and body with a ray of sunshine. Instantly, its formula embellishes the complexion with a subtle luminous veil for an immediate healthy glow highlighting effect. Skin radiates with vibrant freshness and sunny luminosity.

What could be more delicious than the sensation of bare skin? Like the entire LES BEIGES line, this fluid feels imperceptible. Featherweight, it instantly blends into the skin to reveal its natural radiance. For an instant retouching effect, this embellishing filter enriched with pearly particles enhances skin texture on application.

Radiant skin is also, and above all, pampered skin. This is why this embellishing highlighter
contains 69% water and a marine-origin emollient. The complexion seems lit up from within. In parallel, kalanchoe extract protects skin’s natural beauty.

Ultra-sensorial, it is applied with fingertips, dabbed on to structure the face (the top of the cheekbones, on the cheeks, the bridge of the nose and the Cupid’s bow), or as a makeup base for a natural glow. It can also be used on the décolleté and body to intensify the skin’s radiance.

Available in 2 shades: Pearly Glow – pearly ivory or Sunkissed – pearly bronze

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW BRONZING CREAM
CHF 63.00

The effects of a golden tan without the risks of prolonged sun exposure… Who could ask for more? SOLEIL TAN puts this sunbathed finish within hand’s reach. This cult product joins the LES BEIGES line and is now called HEALTHY GLOW BRONZING CREAM. Lightweight and extremely soft, this gel-cream becomes one with the skin to reveal its natural beauty. Tanned as if you spent a day in the great outdoors, the complexion dresses up in sunny radiance. Skin is delicately velvety and features are smoothed.

Surprisingly lightweight yet dense, and easy to blend, its texture embraces the skin and disappears. It contains just the right balance of natural-origin wax for melt-away application and mineral powders for a healthy glow effect. In parallel, kalanchoe extract preserves the
beauty of the complexion.

Easy to take from its generous jar, it glides on with a KABUKI brush, wherever the sun naturally touches the skin: the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Workable and easy to apply, the cream can be used to structure the facial contours (smoothed under cheekbones with circular movements) or for an allover look (dabbed on and blended in, from the middle of the face outwards).

Available in one shade: Soleil Tan Bronze Universelle – pearly bronze

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW NATURAL EYESHADOW PALETTE
CHF 78.00

A sunny healthy glow is ensured by a radiant complexion, but also fresh eyes. This is why the LES BEIGES SUMMER OF GLOW collection includes a new HEALTHY GLOW NATURAL EYESHADOW PALETTE harmony. A palette of five colors, as warm as the landscapes of the Mediterranean coast, and easy to wear and combine. With shimmering tones, each eyeshadow recalls a relaxed and radiant summer: a soft cream beige, a soft and satiny peach beige, a coral with golden and pink sparkles, a peach coral, a taupe brown… A color chart of eyeshadows inspired by gleams of sunlight and luminous sunbeams.

Whether darker or lighter, satin or matte, all five eyeshadows of the palette have a creamy, melt-away texture. Comfortable and longwear, they blend seamlessly together, gliding so easily over the skin that they can be applied with fingertips or a brush.

Multipurpose, the palette can be used as a base or eyeshadow. The eyeshadows can be used on their own or combined. It’s foolproof. The palest shade catches the light at the corner of the eyes and beneath the brows. As for the darkest shade, it can be applied as liner along the base of lower lashes or on the brows to densify them.

Available in one shade: Warm – a delicate cream beige, a soft and satiny peach beige, a coral with golden and pink sparkles, a peach coral and a taupe brown.

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW LIP BALM
CHF 48.00

The sea, the sun, the freedom of the great outdoors, nature, the Mediterranean… All of these elements, dear to Gabrielle Chanel, bring a smile to one’s face. This year, with LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW LIP BALM, lips dress up in a sheer and luminous coral.

With its creamy, melt-away texture, enriched with moringa butter and a Vitamin E derivative, this balm nourishes, protects and envelops lips in delightful comfort. Composed of emollient oils, its extreme hydrating power perfectly cares for the lips and further protects them against dryness. After the first application, lips are smooth, soft and delicately tinted with a fresh and luminous finish.

Available in one shade: Warm – a luminous coral

LES BEIGES LE VERNIS
CHF 33.00

Their colors bring to mind a sun-drenched apricot or a sugary raspberry. The two new vibrant shades of the season are little treats to help you shine down to your fingertips. In this LES BEIGES collection, LE VERNIS de CHANEL offers brilliant color that lasts for days on end. Ultra-resilient, thin and shiny, the coat of color ensures a very long-lasting and even result.

Available in 2 shades: Cruise – vibrant coral and Sailor – pink coral

In stores in the end of June 2020.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL

When you look in your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth. Your mum is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend. Sunday is Mother’s Day, time to appreciate the most amazing woman I’ll always admire, appreciate and love.

Personally speaking, I have a very deep bond with my mum. Her eyes looked after me all my life and this inspired me to today’s gifting idea. Why not surprise your mum with a great eye care product or / and a pair of sunglasses, telling her how thankful you are to have her in your life.

It was love at first sight because we have all been loving our mums the second we opened our eyes for the first time. Even if you cannot be with your mum physically like me due to the current worldwide crisis, you can still surprise her with a gift sent to her directly. Just click on the highlighted product description to be transferred to the respective shop.

LoL, Sandra

The Eye Concentrate by La Mer
My avid readers know that I am a huge a fan of this newly formulated product. With triple the Concentrated Miracle Broth™, it helps transform the delicate eye area with essential energy and healing hydration to reduce the look of dark circles, lines and wrinkles in 3 weeks. Lime tea concentrate, the antioxidant powerhouse, helps prevent future damage before it begins.
Theprocedure is top secret, rumors are they play classical music to the kelp-based elixir for three months as it ferments. No matter how they do it, the formula’s anti-aging effects are truly undeniable.

Cat-eye neon-trimmed printed tortoisehell acetate sunglasses by Fendi
For the mum, who loves everything fashion like me, those sunglasses feature both, the monogram and neon trend in one.

Eye Rescue Stick by Susanne Kaufmann
The perfect new tool for the spa-loving mum as she can apply the stick whenever she wants during the day. Stored in the fridge, it can deliver an even more intense cooling effect. The product counteracts the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, energizing tired-looking eyes caused by blue light and smoothes various visible signs of aging like first wrinkles.

Green coffee extract reduces swelling around the eyes, while jasmine and hawthorn activate the enzyme telomerase in the skin cells and unleash antioxidative properties. A highly concentrated active ingredient from baobab helps to smooth out crow’s feet and fine lines. Ectoin increases cell protection and an antioxidant from larch bark leaves the eyes with a fresh glow.

Eye Cream Line A by Susanne Kaufmann
Powered by a combination of active botanical ingredients like white lupine and elderberry extract, this brightening treatment stimulates collagen production to improve firmness while simultaneously reducing any puffy areas.

Oversized aviator-style gold-tone sunglasses by Givenchy
Those clean frames look very sophisticated.

Eye Cream by Dr. Barbara Sturm
If your mum is into a thorough medical understanding of cells and anti-aging, she will love Dr. Barbara Sturm’s beauty products. Designed to target dark circles, this ultra hydrating eye cream has been specially developed in her German lab with purslane and golden root to lift the sensitive areas around the eyes and reduce puffiness. It’s also infused with active omega lipids that help skin retain moisture. Personally speaking, I love its pudding-like consistency.

D-frame acetate sunglasses by Bottega Veneta
Those sleek shades will work for pretty much any occasion.

Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid by SISLEY PARIS
The rose is the queen of the flowers, and this fluid features black rose aqueous extract for a radiant complexion and hydrating padina pavonica. Specially formulated for everyday use on the delicate eye area, it is fitted with a soothing ceramic applicator, that with regular use, reduces puffiness and dark circles, leaving behind a luminous, youthful-looking glow.

Paris oversized cat-eye zebra-print acetate sunglasses by Balenciaga
Animal prints are always in style and worn as sunglasses in an oversized cat-eye silhouette, they add some drama to every look. 

Luminary Genius Eye Cream by Bynacht
Between the hours of 11pm and 4am our skin’s renewal rate almost doubles – with no exposure to environmental aggressors or makeup, the dermis can absorb nutritional ingredients without any interference. Perfect for targeting signs of aging and tiredness around the eyes, Bynacht’s specially formulated cream is infused with persian silk tree extract and nourishing oils that repair and hydrate while you sleep.

Air Heart cat-eye acetate and gold-tone sunglasses by Le Specs
Slightly oversized, the blacked-out lenses will complement practically all of your mum’s outfits.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands – Photo of me: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

As promised, please enjoy today’s detailed post about Déesse Pro, the original market leading LED phototherapy mask that is available at Sonja Frey Soni Cares. I know that this Hannibal Lecter-esque light-up mask looks quite funny, definitely very instagrammable. However, Alessandro Michele showed similar shapes (only as accessories) on the runway for this Gucci F/W 2019 collection so it seems to be quite fashionable.

No joking, here are the hard facts why I have become such a big fan. Light therapy provides a safe, pain-free way to achieve naturally vibrant and clearer skin. I have been using this tool for over four weeks and am truly impressed about its results. My complexion looked already brighter, tighter and smoother from the very first 10-minute use.

How does it work? The device uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) by way of medical-grade, surface-mounted, light emitting diodes (LEDs) in 4 variations to expose the skin to clinically proven 4 wavelengths of light, delivered at safe, therapeutic doses. These clinically proven treatments rejuvenate skin and improve the most problematic skin conditions.

Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Kate Perry, Madonna and US celebrity facialist Shani Darden already swear by it. Interesting to know is that NASA originally developed it for plant growth experiments on shuttle missions and later found it to have promise for wound treatment.

CHOICE OF 6 TREATMENT MODES

ANTI-AGEING – Red Light (630nm)
• Increases the production of collagen and elastin
• Help reduces fine lines
• Improves skin texture and tone
• Increases the skins natural hydration
• Stimulates circulation and lymphatics
• Revitalise the complexion
• Restores the skin radiance

PURIFYING – Blue Light (415nm)
• Improves skin clarity
• Blemish fighting action without irritation
• Helps regulate natural oil production
• Helps spot prone skin

BRIGHTENING – Green Light (520nm)
• Reduces the production of melanin
• Lightens and reduces existing pigmentation
• Improves the skin complexion
• Neutralises, balances and calms skin

POST PROCEDURE – Near Infrared Light (830nm)
• Boosts metabolism as more ATP produced
• Rejuvenates the skin
• Promotes circulation
• Promotes scar healing
• Improves loose, sagging skin
• Increases skin elasticity five-fold
• Reduces collagen loss
plus Red Light (630nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

CALMING – Green Light (520nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

ANTI-AGEING EXPRESS – Red Light (630nm)

This intensive treatment replicates salon-like facials from the comfort of your own home. You can choose for example between 10, 20 or 30 minute treatment sessions, between manual and pre-programmed options. A light protection for the eyes is delivered with the mask.

What else could you wish for while being in quarantine? Make time for yourself to practice self-care. Mood-boosting moments that offer some respite during these difficult time. During the past weeks, applying the phototherapy mask has become a fantastic and addictive ritual for me. While I am doing the treatment, I listen to meditation podcasts or sound baths to soothe my mind. I totally recommend taking part in Jasmine Hemsley’s Instagram Live sound baths every Saturday evening (@jasminehemsley). This time for myself has had such a positive effect on both my mind and my body, let alone how much my skin improved.

You will be amazed how many more positive effects this tool can give you. Please enjoy this little interview with Sonja Frey, who carries the mask in her online shop.

Light therapy is said to treat all sorts of skin conditions but it can even help with depression or sleep disorders. Could the Déesse PRO LED Mask help with this as well?
Yes, LED Light therapy of any kind is known to improve depression and sleep disorders as it improves the serotonin.

Can I use the mask also in other parts of my body such as the stomach or the knees for example for rejuvenation of the skin or to treat allergies?
Yes, the mask can be used on the body to treat other conditions i.e Acne on the back or Psoriasis on the legs etc (however, we wouldn’t recommend using Near Infrared – the lightening bolt button of the Mask – on these skin conditions).

 Can I use the mask also in combination with a facial mask under it?
The mask producer itself would always recommend to use the mask on a clean dry skin to maximise light absorption. A facial mask could be used pre or post treatment to maximise the outcome.
A lot of facial therapist do put a facial product first and then put on the mask.

What happens if the LEDs don’t work anymore, can I exchange them?
LEDs are not like normal bulbs, they do not have a«‚lifespan», it is rare for LED to just stop working. Also, the mask has a 1 year warranty from the date of original purchase.

Can I burn myself with this mask? Are there any side effects?
No, it is not possible to burn yourself with the mask, as you aren’t using UV rays. LED light therapy doesn’t cause burns compared to other anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser therapy. It may be safe for all skin colors and types as LEDs are visible light rays and there are no known side effects.

If I use the green light, can I still get a tan?
The green light does not effect tanning. Even if you have a tan already, it won’t fade away and you will still be able to tan after using it. LEDs are not used as a source of tanning, because they do not emit UV rays. However the green light will calm your melanocyte activity and break down existing melanin clusters to improve hyperpigmentation.

What is your favorite treatment mode and why?
My favorites are Mode 1 for anti-ageing and collagen boost and Mode 2 for purifying depending on my personal needs. I usually combine Mode 1 with any other procedure to get the full spectrum, from  accelerating tissue repair to reducing inflammation or pore shrinking.

Do I need the light protection for the eyes? Or can I just leave my eyes closed?
I would always recommend protecting your eyes as a precaution either with the goggles provided or damp cotton rounds. Please ensure that you keep your eyes closed at all times.

The treatments come in two intensities. For whom is the higher intensity recommended?  In case I don’t have enough time, can I get the same results with a high intensity treatment of 15 minutes than with a low intensity treatment of 30 minutes?
The intensity mode refers to near infrared, which acts as a boost for your cell energy as it is optimizing the skin. It also has great healing powers as it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to minimize skin aging. NIR does increase the heat in the skin, therefore for a sensitive skin keep the intensity on low. I would always recommend using the mask for a minimum of 15 minutes and a maximum of 30 Minutes, at least 2 times a week.

You will have to see for yourself how amazing the effects of light therapy are. This mask will help you find your inner peace through relaxation while boosting your complexion and providing you with beautiful, young-looking skin at the same time.

YOU CAN SHOP THE DÉESSE PRO PHOTOTHERAPY MASK AT SONJA FREY HERE.

LoL Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Déesse Pro and Sonja Frey Soni Cares
© Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: When you make a purchase, I am not receiving a commission. I am just a big fan of the product!

Today, I would like to introduce you to Swiss beauty entrepreneur Sonja Frey. I first met her at a wedding in Tuscany last summer and was immediately impressed by her beautiful skin and complexion. The 38-year old, who resides in Zurich, founded her online shop in 2019. Originally under the name Uniquare, she changed it this year to Sonja Frey Soni Cares.

Her catchy slogan, that plays with her nick name, «Soni Cares», stays also for her personal passion behind her brand. Over the years, the charming blonde developed a huge knowledge of everything organic and natural when it comes to skincare. After helping friends and family in finding the right products, she decided to take it to the next level with the launch of her beautiful online shop. Only health and beauty products that meet her high standard of quality, eco-friendliness, and clean ingredients are included. You will find brands of all price categories, as for her it’s not about the price tag, but the quality of each hand selected product. Great news is that Sonja ships internationally. Let us surprise you!

On your website, I read that you were a trained attorney-at-law before launching your online shop. Can you tell us a little why you decided to become an entrepreneur and what were the biggest challenges?

I still work as an attorney-at-law on an independent basis. The wish to become an entrepreneur has been in my mind for a long time. As I started to realise that toxic ingredients are used for so many  beauty products, I started to do more and more research and became very passionate about this subject. In the end I decided that I wanted to help others to easily navigate through the beauty jungle out there and find all the great products on one website. That’s how I started my shop.

What would be the best advice after becoming an entrepreneur to give to your younger self at the beginning?

Follow your dreams! It’s the best way to actually find a job or build a business which will last and be successful in the end. Only when you are really passionate about what you are doing, you will go the extra mile and people will believe in what you are doing.

Even Sonja’s dog Mimi is crazy for the GLO Precision Eye Pencil

Last year, you gave birth to your first child. How do you manage to combine both, being a businesswoman and a mother?
A very good question. I can give you the answer in 10 years:-). My baby girl is 11 months old, it does get easier. Of course it is hard to find time for everything, however as I believe in following your dreams, you can make anything happen.

How did you find the brands you are selling?

It all started with a personal passion (and addiction) to find the best brands for myself. So I started researching and researching and researching… During my travels for example, I was always checking the spas and local shops for their products, exploring their ideas about beauty, their philosophy. It is a continuing journey and really an addiction, I cannot stop looking for good brands, I am still doing so to expand my collection. I truly love all the products I am selling.

What is the common thread?

All brands work on a natural basis, are cruelty-free, non-toxic or anything similar. I am convinced that we all should reduce chemicals as much as possible in our lives, and only use them where they are really necessary. Most of the time, we forget our bathroom shelf. I was absolutely shocked once I learned about the ingredients that my former beauty products included, such as Polyethylene for example, a common component of plastics. This so-called microplastic is included in so many products, especially in facial scrubs, face wash or hands soaps among others. Besides being a primary concern for your health, those very small pieces also pollute the environment.

What is your own beauty routine?

I try to keep it simple, not too many products at once but change of routine/products from time to time:
– Morning: 1. cleaning, 2. face serum or cream depending on the season, 3. eye cream 4. sunscreen (always!)
– Evening: 1. cleaning, 2. serum/night cream or night mask, 3. eye cream

Do you have a beauty hack that you like to share with us?

Puh, I would say less is more. Don’t try to overdo it, give your skin time to breathe and use the right products, as natural as possible including some key ingredients. For example Vitamin C & A are great for the skin. I recommend the Vitamin C Treatment from NUORI and the Vitamin A Cream from SKINDESIGNLONDON, the latter will soon be available, so please stay tuned.

Sonja’s favorites

What are your favorite products on your website? Products we shouldn’t miss and why…

– Of course the Déesse Pro LED Mask, because it is the only beauty tool that replaces a treatment from a professional cosmetician.
– The Lumion Face Mist. I love it, especially at the moment, due to its antibacterial effects. It helps before an acne breakout and provides you with a clean face whenever you need it.
– The Regulatpro Hyaluron Anti Aging Drink. As we all know, beauty also comes from within. This is my daily dose of highly effective hyaluronic acid which naturally beautifies the skin, connective tissue, hair and nails.
– The Natural Perfumes from Dedcool LA. They smell fantastic and combine highest quality with natural ingredients. They are vegan, non-toxic, contain no palates, no parabens, no carcinogens and cruelty-free.
– GLO Pressed Base Powder. For me the best powder I tried so far, as your skin can breathe and it includes no harmful ingredients.
– FÎ-NE Deodorant Vetvier Geranium. Deodorants without aluminium salts are much better for your health and absolutely trendy at the moment. However, it is hard to find a good one that works and provides day-long protection. That’s why I like this one and its smell in Vetvier Geranium is divine.
– The Kokoso Coconut Oil for me and my little girl. It can be applied easily, is all natural with healing effects and can be used all over your body as often as you like. My absolute favourite coconut oil.
– If your budget is a bit higher, you will love the JK7 Golden Face Oil, it’s amazing. This beauty brand is a class of its own, very high performing and all natural. Once you have tried it, you will know what I am talking about.
But on my site, there are so many more amazing products, I could go on and on.

Do you use the Déesse PRO LED Mask on a regular base? Can you tell us a little more about this product?

The Déesse Pro LED Mask is where it all started for me. I was in the US for a few months and every cosmetic studio had a light therapy offering. I stumbled over the Déesse PRO LED Mask as it was the best one on the market and I found out that all stars and their cosmetic studios use this mask, like Shani Darden in LA for example. Of course, I needed to have it. Coming back to Switzerland, my friends were really interested to get to know this mask and as shipping to Switzerland was not possible at this time, I partnered up with the brand to do their exclusive retail here.

Ever since I got it in 2018, I use it on a very regular basis, sometimes daily, sometimes once a week, depending on my schedule. The good thing about the mask for me is, that I can also use it while watching TV. However, be careful, Déesse Masking in front of the TV is not for everyone, if you have sensitive eyes stay away from this. So what else can I say about this product. Maybe one thing, for me it was very interesting to find out that even NASA did some color studies and found out that this actually works. I still can’t believe that it is not yet popular in Switzerland. I am sure this will change.

Sonja Frey – a true pioneer when it comes to natural beauty

Sonja Frey in three words (adjectives).

Young, free and wild – haha, jokes aside: loving, intuitive, caring.

Thank you, Sonja, for sharing your beauty tips and experience with us!

As you know me, I always try things for myself to give you the best report possible. I have used the Déesse Pro LED Mask now for over 4 weeks and the results are truly amazing. I was blown away myself. Stay tuned, as I will post the detailed article about this beauty tool and light therapy in general shortly.

LoL, Sandra

Instagram @soniafrey.sonicares
Photos: © Sonja Frey