Sandra‘s Closet

Finally, Clarisonic – the US beauty obession – has hit the Swiss market. Whenever I was in the States, I had been arguing with myself if I should get this hyped skin cleansing tool or not. I never did, a huge mistake!

In April, I attended the press conference held at the HautZentrum Zürich and was truly impressed by this new technology. Coming from the creators of the Sonicare® toothbrush, Clarisonic has changed the way I cleanse my skin.

Taking off my make-up all of a sudden has become a lot of fun, like a 60 seconds daily spa treatment. The sonic frequency moves this easy-to-use device‘s soft, gentle brush back and forth at more than 300 times per second, thoroughly clearing my pores and skin surface.

Here are some of the benefits this revolutionary skincare tool delivers:
– Removes makeup six times better than traditional methods in just 60 seconds.
– Clears pores and reduces the appearance of pore size.
– Cleanses so thoroughly that skincare products absorb better.
– Creates noticeably healthier-looking skin.

One feature I adore is the Clarisonic Body Brush Head which takes sonic cleansing beyond the face to gently cleanse and exfoliate, smooth rough, dry patches, ideal for use on the décolleté, hands, arms, elbows, and feet. It firms, and smoothes the skin, delivering radiant, silky-soft results.

In Switzerland, Clarisonic is available exclusively at Marionnaud.

FACE: Clarisonic MIA 2™ Skin Cleansing System for CHF 189.00
A travel-friendly, professional-quality skincare brush with two speeds.

FACE & BODY: Clarisonic PLUS Sonic Skin Cleansing System for CHF 289.00
An enhanced Clarisonic® Plus system with a third speed along with a Body Brush Head.

Replacement Brush Head for CHF 29.00

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Clarisonic

Introducing TOM FORD’s latest fragrance innovation, the PRIVATE BLEND ATELIER D’ORIENT fragrance collection. Inspired by the sublime beauty, enigmatic sensuality and exquisite luxury of Asia, I would like to invite you to discover those four new must-haves for all fragrance junkies among you:

SHANGHAI LILY – Opulent. Tantalizing. Elegant.
Shanghai Lily is an exotic floral scent that transports the senses into a world of rare and opulent ingredients from the historic silk road. Warm spices, elegant florals, and addictive notes of vanilla and frankincense create hazy reverie of glamour and temptation.

RIVE D’AMBRE – Ornate. Compelling. Warm.
Tom Ford’s newest take on the classic eau de cologne, Rive d’Ambre seduces with precious citrus fruits, that are regarded as a talisman of good fortune in Asia, illuminated by a warm and seductive, amber background.

FLEUR DE CHINE – Dramatic. Smoldering. Seductive.
Fleur de Chine is an unequivocally romantic and haunting floral fragrance touched with a reverence for the great scents of the past. Precious Asian flowers, including Hualan flower and star magnolia, are arranged in a bouquet of rare beauty.

PLUM JAPONAIS – Delectable. Luscious. Sensual.
Plum Japonais reveals the extraordinary beauty of the Ume plum by juxtaposing it with a lush and unconventional mélange of exotic Asian ingredients. Rich and luxurious, it is a fragrance with irresistible complexity.

EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE ONLINE HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Tom Ford

Three new flankers for summer have hit the shelves, all telling the story of love, with all the excitement, intoxicating attraction and euphoric feeling of these first moments. Those magic seconds when he is the only one are captured in a bottle. New scents that the skin can no longer do without, inspired by the sensations of a first kiss, a forbidden love, love at first sight and all the other moments that accelerate your pulse.

AMOR AMOR IN A FLASH by CACHAREL

A true love potion, this luscious oriental fragrance created by Pierre Negrin, encapsulates the excitement of love at first sight.

FLORAL FRUITY

Top notes: Red apple, mandarin orange and apricot
Middle notes: Cinnamon and jasmine
Base notes: Vanilla, sandalwood and caramel

Available as Eau de Toilette for CHF 55.90 (30ml), CHF 83.50 (50ml) and CHF 114.80 (80ml).

L’AMOUR FOU Eau de Toilette by EMANUEL UNGARO

The new 2013 Eau de Toilette flanker of the 2012 launched Eau de Parfum concentration is adapted to the sunny days of the year, a softer and more romantic version of the original, designed by Véronique Nyberg.

ORIENTAL FLORAL

Top notes: Black currant, toffee apple and pink pepper
Middle notes: Violet, rose and peony petals
Base notes: Musk, orris and vanilla

Available as Eau de Toilette for CHF 59.00 (30ml), CHF 79.00 (50ml) and CHF 119.00 (100ml).

AURA BY SWAROVSKI LOVE COLLECTION

This season, Swarovski is launching a new very sensual interpretation of the original perfume Aura from 2011, created by perfumer Fabrice Pellegrin with a beautiful floral-woody-musky trail.

FLORAL WOODY MUSK

Top notes: Physalis and freesia
Middle notes: Lily and rose
Base notes: White musk and sandalwood

Available as Eau de Toilette Légère for CHF 73.00 (50ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the brands

San Francisco by OPI brings West Coast flair directly to your nails and toes for F/W 2013.

The new collection features 12 nail polishes in shades of sky and sea-colored hues of blues and gray to reds, burgundies and browns inspired by some of the city’s most iconic elements – Chinatown, the Golden Gate bridge and the Embarcadero, along with three limited edition Liquid Sand™ shades.

San Francisco by OPI includes the following 12 shades that will stay permanently:
A-Piers to Be Tan – I shore do like this chocolaty tan.
Dining al Frisco – Just feast your eyes on this fresh-air blue!
Haven’t the Foggiest – Can’t tell you why I love this misty gray…I just do!
Peace & Love & OPI – This holographic sage and eggplant is far out!
Keeping Suzi at Bay – There’s no holding back this assertive navy blue.
Incognito in Sausalito – You better keep this almost-black blue under wraps.
Lost on Lombard – Oh garn-et! I’m all turned around!
I Knead Sour-Dough – Are you bready to wear this toasty warm brown?
Muir Muir on the Wall – This trailblazing plum is the fairest of all.
In the Cable Car-Pool Lane – Good golly, Miss Trolley, this rich burgundy takes me away!
Embarca-Dare Ya! – Betcha can’t pass up this marvelous magenta.
First Date at the Golden Gate – You and me and this shimmery ruby make three.

The three limited Liquid Sand™ nail lacquers (should always be worn without top coat) are:
It’s All San Andreas’s Fault – I’d move mountains to get this textured earthy taupe!
Wharf! Wharf! Wharf! – Dog-gone it…fetch me that textured matte blue!
Alcatraz…Rocks – There’s no escaping this arresting textured gray.

My favourite shade: Alcatraz…Rocks

The collection will be available in Switzerland starting July 25, 2013 for CHF 23.90 each.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of OPI and © Sandra Bauknecht

Challenge the sun and get a sun-kissed and healthy glow with the help of those products.
(Maze bag by Maison Mollerus).

Preparation is the key:
INNEOV SUN SENSITIVITY CAPSULES 30

Used before sun exposure, this breakthrough probiotic helps to protect the skin from the harmful UV rays, as a complement to sun protection cream. It works from the inside out, consumed orally as a nutritional supplement, rather than applied topically like a lotion. In the body, it creates tiny amounts of health-promoting substances that circulate in the blood stream, activating the skin’s natural immune defenses, which consequently helps prevent sun damage.

CHF 41.00 (30 capsules)

Tan booster:
GUERLAIN TERRACOTTA SUN SERUM

This remarkable limited edition serum is your loyal ally in acquiring, deepening and prolonging a tan. Adding a few drops of this honey-coloured serum to your normal skincare product will instantly transform it into a tan booster. It stimulates the natural production of melanin and is enriched with a soothing complex to moisturize and soften the skin.

CHF 72.00 (28ml)

The best high protection sunscreen for face and body:
SHISEIDO EXPERT SUN AGING PROTECTION LOTION PLUS SPF 50+

A light non-sticky very water-resistant sun protection lotion that defends against UV rays while providing skincare benefits that protect the health and beauty of the skin. Great for the face.

CHF 58.00 (100ml)

For sensitive skin who tends to have sun allergies:
LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS XL SPF 50+ Dry Touch Gel Cream

Best for sensitive skin to skin prone to sun intolerance, commonly known as sun allergies and for extreme sunshine intensity. It helps to prevent pigment spots (pregnancy, photosensitization…). Thanks to its ultra-dry finish, it leaves no white marks and no shine. Water-resistant.

CHF 29.00 (50ml)

Not only for kids:
LANCASTER COMFORT CREAM FOR CHILDREN – Wet Skin Application SPF50

This smooth, water resistant, anti-sand & tearless cream can be applied even on wet skin, without leaving traces after spreading, and provides broad-spectrum protection. It helps preserve children skin and its DNA from the negative effects of sun rays.

CHF 55.00 (125ml)

Easiest application:
BIOTHERM BRUME SOLAIRE LACTEE SPF 30

The multi-position sun mist can be sprayed on quickly and easily in any position, even upside down. It provides intense hydration for sundried skin, leaving skin protected and softened in quick-time.

CHF 24.00 (125ml)

Sun spray:
PIZ BUIN WET SKIN Transparent Sun Spray – SPF 30

Just apply this amazing spray directly on your wet skin as soon as you get out of the water, lie back, relax, and let the warmth of the sun to dry you.

CHF 24.00 (150ml)

After sun:
CLARINS AFTER SUN MOISTURIZER ULTRA-HYDRATING

The ultimate in targeted, post-sun skin care, this moisture-rich cream delivers an intense beauty treatment every time you use it. Soothing botanical extracts nourish skin while taking the sting out of the sun.

CHF 44.90 (400ml)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht

Throw out your razor and forget about tweezing to get rid of your unwanted hair. Those products below offer professional hair removal at home and it works!

VEET – Easywax™ Electrical Roll-On and Refills

This innovative self-heating wax system comes with a roll-on applicator for salon wax results at home. Formulated with the same ingredients as the waxes used in beauty salons, it removes hair from the root at first application, and is effective on hair as short as 2mm. It works well for all skin types including sensitive. Skin remains impeccably smooth for up to 4 weeks.

The application is extremely easy, the wax rolls smoothly over the skin in an even layer and you can take off the hair easily with the strips. Afterwards my legs feel really soft. It’s definitely better than shaving, legs stay smoother for longer and you don’t have to keep worrying about it. The only disadvantage is that you need to let the hair grow in a little bit to be able to remove it.

Veet Easywax™ Electrical Roll-On – CHF 29.90
Veet Easywax™  Sensitive Refill – Legs & Arms – CHF 15.90
Veet Easywax™ Refill – Bikini & Underam – CHF 15.90

BRAUN – Silk-épil 7 SkinSpa Epilation & Sonic Exfoliation System

I love this product: A wet & dry epilator that comes with an innovative exfoliation brush. You get two beauty treatments in one device for touchably smoother and visibly more radiant skin. The epilator removes shortest, finest hairs for up to 4 weeks of smooth skin. That’s longlastingness shaving can’t match. The exfoliation brush removes dead skin cells with massaging micro-vibrations to bring out your natural skin glow. For results comparable to professional exfoliation. You will thank me forever!

Available for CHF 245.00.

DECLEOR – Aroma Epil Expert Post-Wax Double Action Gel

A great addition to your hair removal routine is this new product. The post-wax cream is specifically designed to soothe sensitive areas (eyebrows, lips, bikini line and underarms) after hair removal to ensure the skin stays smooth and soft, without irritation. Applied daily the nourishing cream works to slow down hair regrowth, with a 92% reduction in hair re-growth after 6 days, optimising your removal sessions whilst maintaining silky skin for longer. Suitable for all skin types.

Available for CHF 22.00.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

The sea holds many secrets, among them the power to retard the skin-aging process. Advanced Marine Biology by La Prarie, a marine-derived skincare line, contains superior formulas and age-fighting benefits perfect for those who seek eco-friendly products. An anti-aging complex, anti-oxidants and mega-rich sea nutrients combine to energize, protect and renew your skin. The perfect starter kit (from left to right) for a great price compared to other La Prairie collections.

ADVANCED MARINE BIOLOGY FOAMING MOUSSE CLEANSER
A gentle and conditioning cleanser that lifts away impurities without stripping skin of its natural moisture. CHF 74.00 (125ml)

ADVANCED MARINE BIOLOGY TONIC
This revitalizing triple-phase serum can play an important role in helping your skin regain its youthful tone and radiance. CHF 116.00 (150ml)

ADVANCED MARINE BIOLOGY REVITALIZING EMULSION
A multi-purpose, lightweight moisturizer for the face, neck and eye area. CHF 156.00 (50ml)

ADVANCED MARINE BIOLOGY EYE GEL
A lightweight anti-aging eye treatment that reduces puffiness and dark circles around the eye area. CHF 119.00 (15ml)

ADVANCED MARINE BIOLOGY DAY CREAM SUNSCREEN SPF 20
A moisturizing cream-gel that firms your skin, while offering high-level protection against environmental impact, including harmful sunrays. CHF 156.00 (50ml)

I love those five products and can absolutely recommend them. My skin feels refreshed, hydrated and revitalized.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of La Prarie and © Sandra Bauknecht

This week, the limited Dior Summer Mix Edition 2013 will be hitting the shelves in Switzerland. It features four Diorblush Cheek Cremes, with a new creamy, mousse-like non greasy texture that blends easily. An absolutely amazing must-have beauty product for the summer season. Along with those four blushes come four nail polishes in hot, vibrant shades to mix and match. For me, it is all about the colour combination of coral and pink as you can see above.

Pink patent-leather ankle-cuff sandals, coral patent-leather envelope clutch, both by Gucci, Sunnies 448 nail polish and Bikini 871 blush cream, both by Dior.

BLUSH CREME – CHF 49.50 each (One shot)
Bikini 871, Capri 851, Panama 651, Pareo 971

VERNIS – CHF 37.00 each (One shot)
Capeline 658, Créoles 678, Sunnies 448, Tie & Dye 858

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Dior and © Sandra Bauknecht

Introducing POLO RED, the new Ralph Lauren fragrance for men with a fiery edge and daring confidence. Inspired by the designer’s legendary luxury car collection and the resulting adrenaline rush, it captures speed and seduction in a powerful scent.

Nacho Figueras, professional polo player and face of the fragrance, says: “When I’m playing polo I need to push myself and be the first to the ball – that’s when my adrenaline rushes to its peak. Riding a horse is very much like driving a car: it’s about the race and hitting the right curves to get the most speed. Whether riding a polo horse or behind the wheel, I’m in control.”

WOODY SPICY

Top note: Red grapefruit
Middle note: Spicy red saffron
Base note: Deep red wood

In Switzerland exclusively available at Marionnaud from July 2013.
Eau de Toilette 40ml (CHF 60.00), 75ml (CHF 75.00) and 125ml (CHF 98.00)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Ralph Lauren

Let me introduce you to my latest beauty musts. It is all about roses…

1 Flora rose, iris and orange blossom scented candle by FORNASETTI
My first step of a beauty routine is the calming scent of a candle. This one I love. Its delicate aroma of white rose and jasmine, inspired by the Fornasetti gardens in Milan is divine. I like to keep the ceramic vessel to store jewelry and small trinkets.

2 Rose de Vie – Sérum Délicat, 30ml by DR. SEBAGH
Lightweight and beautifully scented, this serum is the quickest way to a fresh and youthful glow.

3 A Rose By Any Other Name Body Cleanser, 500ml by AESOP
Fragranced with Rose Damascene Flower Oil and enriched with softening botanicals, it’s the perfect shower gel that will envelop you with a feeling of well-being and help to keep you focused through even the most manic of days.

4 Baume De Rose Lip Protectant by BY TERRY
My personal daily essential. The signature formula is enriched with softening Rose Flower Essential Wax and healing Shea Butter, simply dab it on to instantly soothe and plump your lips.

LoL, Sandra