Face Archives - Pretty Beautiful by Sara

The worlds first AI-POWERED ASSISTIVE MAKEUP DEVICE

1 February 2023

The world’s first handheld computerized makeup applicator designed for users with limited hand and arm mobility to make beauty accessible for all.

The world’s first handheld computerized makeup applicator designed for users with limited hand and arm mobility to make beauty accessible for all has been released by Lancome.

Since 2009, Lancôme has been empowering women with the most personalized solution powered by next-generation beauty tech. As part of its mission to use tech for good and make beauty accessible for all, Lancôme continues to set the pace of innovation with HAPTA: a new assistive prototype to enable makeup to become a self-fulfilling experience for everyone.

“For years, Lancôme has sought to provide every woman with beauty solutions adapted to their needs. Beauty tech has enabled us to fulfill this mission in an even more powerful way, revolutionizing the way we develop beauty products and services and enabling greater personalization” said Françoise Lehmann, Lancôme Global Brand President. “With HAPTA we are going one step further by making beauty more accessible to use, because everyone should have equal access to it.”

An estimated 50 million people globally live with limited fine motor skills. This makes some daily gestures, like applying makeup, challenging. Under development by L’Oréal scientists and engineers, HAPTA is a handheld ultra-precise smart make-up applicator for users with limited hand and arm mobility, offering them the ability to steadily apply lipstick at home. HAPTA will incorporate technology originally created by Verily to stabilize and level utensils to give people with limited hand and arm mobility the ability to eat with confidence and independence.

HAPTA – from the new latin haptic meaning “science of touch” – is an unprecedented device designed to empower those with hand and arm-motion impairments so that makeup application becomes intuitive and enjoyable beyond disability.

“With Lancôme Beauty Tech and advanced technological devices we provide personalized diagnosis and push the boundaries of product performance. Today, we want to go further by offering a holistic approach to beauty. HAPTA’s revolutionary technology has the power to help many people to use and apply beauty products to make them feel confident and self-fulfilled. This innovation is a first step for Lancôme towards beauty for all.” – Paul Tartrat, Lancôme Innovation & Beauty Tech Director

Discover HAPTA, your ultimate ally that levels your motions.

Accessibility starts here.

OUR 1^ST AI-POWERED ASSISTIVE MAKEUP DEVICE

A CONCENTRATE OF TECH IN A SMART DEVICE

As Lancôme’s first motion-stabilizing makeup device, HAPTA works with your every move, to help overcome hand-motion challenges, so that applying lipstick or mascara becomes simple. With its adaptive strap and innovative “self-levelling” technology, it allows for more precise application and better sensoriality.

Easy by duty: Featuring self-levelling technology embedded with real-time sensors for a full range of motion and steady application. As a result, the device level as your arm twists and bends, reacting intuitively to your every movement. HAPTA combines motors and gears to provide 360 degrees of rotation and up to 70 degrees of flexion, enabling hand and wrist motricity to be compensated without effort and distinguishing unwanted hand tremors from intended movements of the hand.

Tech by essence: A self-levelling hinge system uses electronic motion-stabilizing technology to constantly adjust the device’s position in real time, every second. 2 internal motors and 9-axis accelerometers allow for self-stabilizing motion control based on user’s hand orientation while keeping the device stable.

Inclusive by design: The easy-grip device has been specifically designed for those with hand-motion-related conditions, to maximize comfort during use. With its ergonomic, lightweight (115g) and easy to handle design, it is now easier to hold the device and place the lipstick correctly, in order to enjoy a precise application.

Unveiled for the first time this week at the Consumer Electronics Show 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada for the application of lipstick, HAPTA will later be enhanced with new robotic features to also works for mascara application, two of the most common forms of self-expression through beauty. It will then be further extended to other beauty products, to move us closer to our mission to make beauty more accessible and enjoyable for all.

THE SCIENCE OF TOUCH – MAKING MAKEUP ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL

Bringing the science of touch to women everywhere, HAPTA is designed for those with hand-motion disorders, arthritis, Huntington’s Disease, and following stroke-related motion challenges.

The motion-stabilizing device harnesses the power of technology to assist those who have difficulty raising their arms due to limited mobility or back issues, and people with limited grip strength who struggle with precise application. It also helps anyone with limited wrist mobility who may find it difficult to get a comfortable angle when applying lipstick or mascara, as well as those experiencing tremors and a lack of sensation in the hands.

As a Beauty Tech premiere, HAPTA makes the expression of beauty more accessible, more achievable, and easier than ever before.

HAPTA.

Tech For Good, Beauty for all.

Face Product Skin

Does your skin need Vitamin C or Vitamin A or both in your skincare routine?

9 March 2022

Does you skin really need vitamins? Does your skin need Vitamin C or A or both in your skincare routine? Let’s talk about two of the most common and powerful skincare ingredients: vitamin C and vitamin A (more commonly known as retinol). Here’s why these two vitamins deserve a place in your routine.

Skincare Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C it is so versatile which makes it one my favourite skincare ingredients. It brightens and gives your skin instant radiance. Not only does vitamin C protect against damaging free radicals, it also helps to lighten and break up pigmentation you might already have. It also helps prevents sun spots from forming and increasing overall radiance. Vitamin C also helps to diminish existing fine lines and wrinkles, while protecting against future damage making it a great anti-ager too.

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 30% €7.50

For a budget-friendly vitamin C formula, try The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 30% In Silicone €7.50

If you’re new to using the ingredient on your skin, It is potent stuff, so you only need a few drops for each application. It’s best to start out with a low concentration and work your way up as your skin grows more accustomed to the ingredient.

I am now using Ultraceuticals Ultra C Firming Serum €78.50. It is on the expensive side but I noticed results after a few days of using it and my skin looked much more radiant and brighter.

Another good serum is La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum €38.00. It is particularly good for sensitive skin types. Always start with a low % and you can go all the way up to 20 percent, which will work more quickly to brighten and improve skin pigmentation.

Skincare Benefits of Vitamin A

Retinol (a derivative of vitamin A) is another well-regarded skincare ingredient – particularly when it comes to anti-ageing. It helps increase cellular turnover which stimulates your body’s production of new skin cells.

Retinol can also come in many different forms and strengths. Similarly, to vitamin C, vitamin A is also great for controlling breakouts and fading unwanted pigmentation.

If you’re completely new to vitamin A, I recommend building up a tolerance as retinol comes in varying different strengths.

Cerave Skin Renewing Retinol Serum €39.99 is a nice budget option that works well for sensitive skin. It combines retinol with ceramides for skin protection, antioxidant-rich licorice, and calming nicianamide. Its low concentration of retinol (0.3 percent) will also help minimize the side effects. Cerave also have a great option for post-acne and open pores Resurfacing Retinol Serum €37.95 Beautyshop.ie.

I have been using the Image Ageless Total Retinol A Cream €89.00. Millie’s. Expensive but I decided to invest in my skin to help fight ageing and it has been worth it.

How to use Vitamin c and Vitamin A (Retinol) in your routine

Vitamin C and vitamin A should be an important part of any well-rounded skincare routine. I recommend using vitamin C during the day to protect skin from UVA/UVB and pollution when you are out and about and then use your retinol serum in the evening combined with a soothing moisturiser at night.

Regardless of your skin type, it is always best to build up a tolerance to retinol. Try mixing a low concentration retinol with your usual moisturiser three times a week and gradually increasing. This will stop any redness or overly dry patches. Vitamin A can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so wearing an SPF every day is essential.

Does your skin need Vitamin C or Vitamin A or both in your skincare routine?

Have a look at this blog post on how to layer skincare products.https://prettybeautifulbysara.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=536&action=edit

Face Product Skin

Tips to give yourself the best at-home facial

5 September 2021

black woman with towel applying cream on face

Facials are one of the most relaxing and luxurious things that you can do for yourself. Right now, many of us need to take care of ourselves and destress more than ever. A facial means doing something more than your daily routine. Ideally, you can aim to do a facial once a week at home.

If you can’t go to the spa, you can bring the spa to you by creating some relaxing ambience at home. This may seem like a small step but erasing as much stress as possible to unwind will make your facial that much better. If you have time take a bath with Epsom salts, adding a few drops of lavender essential oil with intensify the relaxation benefits. If you don’t have time for a bath and light one of your favourite candles.

Cleanse your skin well

You need to start with a clean canvas. Any makeup or product left on your skin will result in a less effective facial. To make sure your skin is as clean as possible before you start the facial process, give double cleansing a try.

Cleanse with an oil-based cleanser first. The oil-based cleanser will remove makeup, products, and sebum, while a water based cleanser will clear your skin of any grime like dirt or sweat, leaving you with squeaky-clean skin ready for next steps. If you don’t have an oil-based cleanser, just cleanse twice with your normal cleanser.

Exfoliate to smooth and brighten

Exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells and reveal radiant skin. I would recommend using an enzyme or chemical exfoliator instead of a physical exfoliator (like a scrub). Scrubs can leave little micro-tears on the face. Micro-tears are little tiny scratches, which can get irritated and lead to breakouts and inflammation.

I highly recommend Paula’s choice when it comes to chemical exfoliants. The brand’s Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA is an incredibly powerful exfoliant that works to reveal more radiant, younger-looking skin after just one use! It is a leave on exfoliant for normal to dry skin and the BHA (beta hydroxy acid) with salicylic acid helps to reduce breakouts, blackheads and redness while hydrating your complexion. So, ideal for oilier skin.

Mask
A facial wouldn’t feel right without some kind of face mask. You can pick whatever mask you want to use based on your skin’s needs. For an oily, acne skin you will be looking for a mask with detoxifying ingredients that will help clean out your pores, since your pores will be open after exfoliating (think a clay mask or a charcoal mask). For a drier, more sensitive skin opt for a hydrating mask with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Serum
Serums are different to moisturizers as they deliver powerful ingredients directly into the skin. They target specific skin concerns. There are lots of them out there, so choosing wisely is always a challenge. A great one to opt for if you are finding it a challenge is Skingredients Skin Protein Vitamin A + C Serum – basically everything you need in one tub.
Skingredients Skin Protein is a vitamin A + C serum that revamps, re-educates and restores the skin for glowing, smooth, tight and plump skin. It’s an active formula of with two forms of vitamin A, two forms of vitamin C and vitamin E, good fats and tea extracts alongside a massive serving of potent antioxidants and a powerful, clinically-proven pro-collagen peptide. This AM + PM serum supports and balances your skin while protecting it from the environmental stressors that can cause it to age prematurely.

Face Featured Posts Product Skin

NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE DRY OIL Review

29 May 2021

Why do people love Nuxe oil so much? It’s simple; Huile Prodigieuse has gained its cult-favourite status because it’s one of the most multi-purpose moisturisers you’ll ever use.

I love everything about it!

What is Nuxe dry oil?

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse multi-purpose oil is a face, body and hair oil that repairs, protects and hydrates, but without a greasy or sticky feel. With an at least 95.5% natural origin formula and ingredient line-up of vitamin E extracts and fatty acids, this oil is one big antioxidant. It’s one of the most luxurious ways to fight against free radicals like pollution and cigarette smoke. Not to mention, re-boot, and revive your skin after UV exposure.

Free from preservatives, mineral oils and silicones, Huile Prodigieuse nourishes inside and out, giving your face, hair and body the supermodel glow you’ve always dreamed of. Intrigued?

This NUXE oil is made from 7 natural oils of the highest quality, including a precious new botanical oil – Tsubaki Oil from the Camellia plant, a Japanese beauty secret. Tsubaki Oil is rich in Omega 9 and Phytosterols, which has anti-ageing properties and nourishes and heals the skin. Argan Oil is renowned for its restorative effects, while Hazelnut Oil and Borage Seed Oil soothe and smooth the skin. It also has 2 forms of Vitamin E, an anti-oxidant to help combat damaging free radicals and provide anti-pollution protection. As well as moisturising, softening and smoothing skin on face and body, this dry oil even helps to reduce the colour of stretch marks. It also softens and repairs hair, giving it a beautiful healthy shine. Suitable for all skin and hair types. Most importantly it is Paraben-free, Mineral Oil-free, Silicone-free.

The Original Dry Oil

What does the Nuxe dry oil smell like?

Huile Prodigieuse smells like summer. Notes of white flowers and vanilla give this oil a creamy floral aroma that feels warm and cosy.

How to use Nuxe dry oil?

For face: There are many ways to use the Huile Prodigieuse oil on the face. The most common way is to apply Huile Prodigieuse in place of your daily moisturiser. It’s the best beard oil! Other uses include mixing it with your foundation to create a dewy finish, or if you have oily skin, use this oil overnight to help rebalance sebum production.

For body: To get the most out of your Huile Prodigieuse Oil, apply all over damp skin. Although it’s a dry oil, wait a minute or two before getting dressed.

For hair: Huile Prodigieuse is incredible at repairing split ends, breakage and making your hair smell incredible. To use this oil to combat frizz, apply a small amount into your hands and work through your hair from the bottom upwards. You can also use this oil as a hot oil treatment too. Start by placing the glass bottle in warm water, wash your hair, then when damp, comb through the oil from lengths to ends and place your hair in a warm towel twist for 10 minutes and rinse.

The Shimmering Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or Multi-Purpose Golden Dry Oil

Shimmer body oils are having a moment, but, Nuxe was way ahead of the game with Huile Prodigieuse Or. This oil has a golden tint and a grown-up glitter finish that strikes the perfect balance between statement and chic; it’s an essential ‘occasion-wear’ face and body oil – I never go without it when going bare-legged.

Call this a liquid re-toucher, OR’s subtle tint lightly airbrushes the appearance of your body and limbs with mini shimmering mineral particles, but fear not, the finish is subtle; the more you layer, the more of a statement you can create.

What does the Nuxe shimmer dry oil smell like?

Huile Prodigieuse Or smells the same as the original dry oil. The only difference with this formula is its subtle shimmer and golden tint.

How to use Nuxe shimmer dry oil?

For face: Or is very versatile. Create a glowy day cream by mixing this in with your moisturiser, or squirt a few drops into your foundation to make more of a dewy finish – this works particularly well during summer. I also like dabbing any excess where I would apply my highlighter.

For body: The application method for OR is very similar to that of the original. Focus on using this oil on areas that you want to enhance, such as the centre of your legs, decolletage and arms. Make sure you wait a while before getting dressed to avoid its glittery contents transferring onto clothes.

For hair: This shimmering oil adds a mirror-like shine to hair while repairing any damaged areas over time. One for a night out rather than a pampering mask – brunettes will love it!

The Floral Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Florale Multi-Purpose Dry Oil

The newest member of the pack is Huile Prodigieuse Florale, and it’s completely different to everything else in the Huxe Prodigieuse line-up. It comes in a pink botttle, but its musky-floral scent is the most significant change to take note of. Rest assured, it’s made from 96.9% natural origin ingredients, and the moisturising formula you know and love still feels same. The floral dry oil has a citruses smell from grapefruit as you first spray Florale, but as the oil blends into the skin, creamy florals start to prevail. Finally drying down with warm wafts of smooth white musk.

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Beauty Trends That Are Going To Be Huge In 2021

27 March 2021

Like most things, beauty has been in a weird place these past months. It the early days of the pandemic, our homes became our office, day care, and beauty salon. We will have another few months of mask wearing so it’s no surprise that eyeliner is going to become more popular. Also, expect to see more curtain bangs and fringes and retro nails. So, in the spirit of looking forward, I’ve rounded up five of the biggest beauty trends to get excited about for 2021.

SKINMALISM

Skinmalism is all about embracing your natural skin and super-minimal makeup. It makes sense, since many of us are wearing less makeup and spending more time on skin care than ever before. Social media searches for ‘natural makeup’ and ‘fresh skin’ are up on last year.

2 BANGSand Fringes

Fringes have also made a comeback and we’ll see more curtain bangs but with more texture and less length.

woman wearing white shirt — Photo by Mateo Almendares on Pexels.com

3 UNCOMPLICATED EMBELLISHMENTS

The simplified approach to everyday styling is going nowhere fast. Messy buns, ponytails have been the focus this year and we’ll see a continuation of the casual styles in 2021. For 2021, expect to see those laid back looks accentuated with accessories like crystal bobby pins and extra-large scrunchies. Clips of every kind are trending now, expect them to get more elaborate as the year goes on.

4 ‘80S EYESHADOW

We’re traveling back to the ‘80s for its bold, eye-catching colours. Think, royal blue, bright yellow and even rich black. This is the chance to try those the over-the-top colours in your palette that have always caught your eye.

alluring woman with bright makeup against ribbed wall — Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

5 Coloured Liner

Lots of coloured liner and unexpected takes on classic eyeliner will dominate 2021. If you want to ease into the trend, stick with a classic cat eye, but swap black for a bold colour.

Face Product Skin

3 of the Best Sunscreens (SPF) for your Face

18 June 2020

Best Sunscreens 2017, According to Health's Editors | Health.com

You will have heard it a million times before: wearing a face SPF every day is key to healthy skin. I wish I knew the full effects that the sun had on my skin years ago so I could reverse back time and I would have used SPF on my face from age 16. A good sunscreen blocks the harmful effects of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, which wreak havoc on the health of our skin and its cells, leading to decreased collagen and elasticity, fine lines, pigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer if an SPF is not used. In the past, SPFs have been sticky and greasy, quick to clog pores, and prone to leaving dark skins ashy. The good news is that now, thanks to much-improved formulas and innovative technology, there are plenty of facial sunscreens that protect your skin while also being a pleasure to use.

3 of the best SPF’s for your skin

Kiehls

Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Defense SPF 50 €41.00

Doubling up as both a moisturiser and an SPF 50 sunscreen, Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Defense is an industry favourite, perfect for those with sensitive skin thanks to its oil-free, fragrance-free formula. It doesn’t leave a chalky residue either, making it a good choice for darker skin tones.

La Roche Posay

La Roche-Posay Anthelios AC Anti-Shine Matte Fluid SPF 30 €19.50

If you suffer from blemishes, you may find that sun protection leaves your skin feeling greasy and prone to breakouts. La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios AC Anti-Shine Matte Fluid is specifically designed for people with those concerns, offering a non-comedogenic, feather-light formula with a velvet finish alongside SPF 30 protection.

Image Prevention + matte €47.50

I am currently using this SPF and loving it. It is available in matte which is oil-free for oily, acne skins or the regular prevention + for all other skin types. It’s a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen that delivers high sun protection. It doubles as a protective primer to create a healthy glow before makeup application. It smells amazing.