We've all been there. Incessantly trying to calm the acne flare-ups that keep popping up one after the other all over your face. For some expert advice on how to tame your acne flare-ups, we turned to our in-house esthetician Jordanna who knows a thing or two about managing acne.
Jordanna Kavanat, Esthetician at Etiket Boutique
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We’ve all been there. Similar to a game of whack-a-mole, you’re incessantly trying to calm the acne flare-ups that keep popping up one after the other all over your face. Those flare-ups can be caused by anything from hormonal imbalances, to your diet, to the products you’re using and other lifestyle habits. While you should seek the counsel of a skincare professional if these flare-ups persist over time, there are some tips and tricks you can use to weather out the storm. We’ve asked our in-house esthetician Jordanna to share with us the tricks she’s learned over the years on how to manage acne.
JORDANNA’S 5 SIMPLE TIPS
I have lots of tips and tricks as I am acne-prone and work with many acne-prone clients.
Tip number 1: Wash your face morning and night, double-cleansing at night to help with congestion. When double-cleansing, start with an oil to help remove makeup, sunscreen and build-up from the day. I recommend Tata Harper’s Nourishing Oil Cleanser because it can also be used on its own in the morning. For sensitive skin, I recommend Pai Skincare’s Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil. The second cleanser should be to deep cleanse. Tata Harper’s Clarifying Cleanser is my favourite as it has AHAs and BHAs in it to help fight breakouts and congestion.
Tip number 2: Be consistent with your routine. Keep it simple so that your skin can process what it needs to do in regards to ingredients.
Tip number 4: Look at your lifestyle (ie. diet, exercise, sleep, stress, habits) to make positive changes on the inside that will better your outside. Most of the time, your skin is trying to tell you something.
Tip number 5: Once the pimples are there, the trick is to cover them up while they heal. For that, I use a tinted sunscreen to even out my complexion, and a concealer to spot conceal. I love Elta MD’s UV Clear Tinted SPF 46 as a base and Ilia’s True Skin Concealer for the extra coverage.
Would you like to book a virtual or in-person consultation with Jordanna, or any other of our estheticians? Contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 514.687.3886.
Although it may be difficult to accept that summer is officially coming to an end, it's time to consider what we can do to treat post-summer skin to make it glowing and healthy for the fall season ahead. Here are our top fall skin care tips for your best skin yet - healthy, hydrated, and luminous!
Although it may be difficult to accept that summer is officially coming to an end, it’s time to consider what we can do to treat post-summer skin to make it glowing and healthy for the fall season ahead.
Having a pro-active approach now will save you from that moment when you catch your reflection in the mirror and realize your skin is showing the effects of not enough sunscreen and not enough self-care over the lazy months of summer.
Here are our top fall skin care tips for your best skin yet – healthy, hydrated, and luminous!
BOOK YOUR CHANGE OF SEASON FACIAL
The first and most important step is to schedule an appointment with your esthetician for a treatment. Trust in the advice of a professional to analyze your post-summer skin, apply the appropriate treatment and make recommendations for a fall skin care regimen. All that time spent in the sun this pas summer may have yielded a few sun spots, sun damage or fine lines and wrinkles – all worthy of a once-over by a professional. We love a Brightening Hydrafacial like the Hydrafcial MD Brightening Treatment featuring the Britenol Vortez-Booster we offer in our SPA. It targets dark spots and sun-damaged areas, while encouraging collagen production and cellular renewal. We also recommend our Tata Harper Brightening Facial with Muti-Acid Peel, as it gently exfoliates the skin with natural AHAs to deliver an instantly luminous complexion.
DEEP-PORE CLEANSING
We know that you have been using a lot of sunscreen these past few months, and so you skin may be a bit overwhelmed and may look and feel dull and congested. Clear out clogged pores by applying a clay mask. This will allow you skin to better absorb the beneficial ingredients in your creams and serums. Kat Burki’s Dual Exfoliating Clay Mask is great for removing impurities and cellular debris, while providing a mild exfoliation and a boost of hydration.
THROUGH EXFOLIATION
Now that pores are clear, maintain skin by buffing away any build-up of dead skin cells that remain on the surface. Look for a gentle face polish or a night cream/lotion with AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids). This powerful ingredient will smooth away any roughness, as well as brighten the skin overnight! Environ’s Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream is a crowd-pleaser as it gently exfoliates the skin while providing a deep hydration for a radiant glow.
DARK SPOTS AND DISCOLOURATION
Vitamin A is one of the best ingredients to even out discoloration and hyper-pigmentation caused by the sun and environmental elements. Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, will help to diminish brown spots and blotchiness, while also illuminating the skin’s appearance. For beginners, we recommend SkinCeuticals’ Retinol 0.3. We recommend using it a few times a week to start. Once your skin gets used to the product, you can start using it every single night or every other night.
BRIGHTENING SERUMS
Even though your bronzed summer skin is fading, if your skin is healthy and hydrated, it should naturally radiate. Keep it nourished and radiant by applying a brightening serum in the morning and at night. Our best-selling brightening serum is SkinMedica’s Lytera. This serum minimizes the appearance of skin discoloration and dark spots. It has also been proven to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
HYDRATE AND MOISTURIZE
At this time of year, the summer sun, heat, salt water, and chlorine have taken their toll on your skin leaving it dry and dehydrated. Our natural moisture levels get depleted, which ends up leaving our skin not only feeling dry and rough but looking that way too. Moisturizers should have antioxidants and ingredients that help skin hold on to water, skin-repairing ingredients, and/or anti-inflammatory ingredients. Our clients are obsessed with Vivier’s latest launch: the GrenzCine Face Cream. It hydrates and firms the skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and increasing luminosity.
INVEST IN A ZIIP
ZIIP is an electrical facial in the palm of your hand. It uses nano currents and microcurrents to communicate with your skin cells, increasing their effectiveness, prompting them to heal, and encouraging them to make an abundance of Collagen and Elastin.
With 7 different treatments to choose from, the Pigment Treatment is designed to even skin tone by suppressing the overproduction of melanin that leads to dark spots and hyper-pigmentation. The six-minute treatment is meant to be used every other day until pigmentation improves and then once a week for maintenance after that.
MAINTAIN YOUR GLOW WITHOUT THE SUN
Summer is done but no one said we had to stop looking fabulous! Yes it’s possible to have ridiculously radiant skin without being in the sun, and yes, it can be from an all-natural formula too. The Impossible Glow from Pai Skincare is a great way to get that sunkissed glow in no time. Its all-natural and certified organic formulation give you a post-holiday glow without ever having to board a plane. Just add a few drops to your moisturizer and you’re ready to go.
If you have any questions or need help building a routine that works for you, contact us at [email protected]
A few months ago, Tata Harper launched a skincare collection designed specifically for reactive skin. This past week, Tata launched two new additions to the collection: a serum and an eye cream, thus completing the Superkind routine. If you have sensitive skin and couldn't handle Tata's original products, listen-up! This routine is for you...
A few months ago, Tata Harper launched a skincare collection designed specifically for sensitive, reactive skin. This collection included a cleanser, a moisturizer and a mask. This past week, Tata launched two new additions to the collection: a serum and an eye cream, thus completing the Superkind routine.
With the latest launch of the Bio-Barrier Serum and Eye Crème, we thought we would shine a light on the Superkind Collection and walk you through the products. If you have sensitive skin and couldn’t handle Tata’s original products, listen-up! This routine is for you…
A SUPERKIND STORY
After talking with family members and friends who struggled with sensitive skin, Tata was inspired to create all-natural formulations that would be gentle enough for sensitive skin types. There seemed to be a common denominator when talking to those who struggled with reactive skin: there were limited options on the market for their skin type. The solutions that were available were mostly synthetic and they offered very limited results. The idea was then born to create solutions that would not only act as a calming force for the skin, but also deliver real results.
It took a year of research and two years or formulating to create the Superkind Collection. This hard work led to products that are super gentle and super powerful.
SUPER GENTLE This collection excludes a comprehensive catalog of 85+ common irritants and allergens that can trigger reactive skin and further compromise a weak skin barrier.
SUPER POWERFUL Tata Harper has included a careful curation of 36 multifunctional ingredients that are able to transform reactive skin with green technology that it can tolerate.
THE ROUTINE
As with all of our recommended routines, we always encourage cleansing the skin as a first step. The Softening Cleanser from Tata Harper is non-stripping and works to gently dissolve buildup and impurities. Its formula is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and vegan. It’s also free from 85+ common allergens and irritants, as are all of the Superkind products.
Follow up the cleanser with the Bio-Barrier Serum. This all-in-one anti-aging serum, smoothes, firms, and brightens to restore a comfortable, healthy complexion. We love this serum because it offers real anti-aging results for sensitive skin types! Many anti-aging products contain active ingredients that can be irritating for reactive skin. This serum’s gentle formula acts as a calming force while still delivering real results.
Next up, eye cream! The Bio-Barrier Eye Crème helps brighten, depuff, firm and smooth the skin to diminish signs of aging and fatigue. Real anti-aging results without irritation.
Follow the eye cream up with the Fortifying Moisturizer. This ultra-silky and smoothing formula delivers a cocoon-like barrier that hydrates, fortifies, comforts, and defends reactive, stressed skin.
A few times a week, apply the Radiance Mask from the collection. We love this mask because it allows sensitive skin types to reap the benefits of a good exfoliation. This creamy, gel-like mask is infused with a delicate blend of self-neutralizing AHAs that replenish moisture and gently exfoliate to revive dull, stressed skin and reveal a healthy-looking, radiant complexion.
Need help building a skincare routine that works for you? Contact us at [email protected].
If you’re an avid Vivier customer, or new to the brand and looking to build a routine around the Face Cream, here is a routine we believe is ideal for battling signs of aging.
If you’re a fan of Vivier, the Montreal-based skincare brand, then you’re most likely familiar with their GrenzCine range. Touted as an advanced and concentrated skincare range, GrenzCine includes a serum, an eye cream, a neck cream, a body cream, and now a face cream!
This line is all about thickening the skin from the outside in and boosting collagen from the inside out. While the line has been a success with our customer’s here at Etiket, there has been a need for a moisturizer that complements the GrenzCine routine. That is where Face Cream comes in!
GrenzCine Face is an advanced and concentrated face cream that hydrates and firms the skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and increasing luminosity. It is formulated with Vivier’s innovative GrenzCine technology which combines the power of Polyamine-DAB, Vitamin C and Activ8 Complex for a multi-layer and multi-function approach to aging skin.
Consider this the perfect addition to your Vivier routine. This cream is designed to deeply nourish and restore the skin. A hydrating anti-aging cream, this moisturizer also works well for oily, acne-prone skin. Use morning and night, over serum and before retinol.
If you’re an avid Vivier consumer, or are new to the brand and looking to build a routine around the Face Cream, here is a routine we believe is ideal for battling signs of aging.
CLEANSER
Start off your routine with a clean base. An often overlooked step, cleansing is essential to a good skincare routine. In fact, if you start off with skin that isn’t clean, your products won’t penetrate as well as they would on a clean surface. In the store, we often recommend a gentle cleanser as they are suitable for most skin types. Hexam Cleanser from Vivier is ideal for all skin types. It’s a great one to reach for at night when you’re looking to get the day off your face.
TONER
An often forgotten step, a toner is great for nourishing the skin with antioxidant and hydrating properties, as well as for rebalancing the skin’s pH. The Refreshing Toner can also be used as a face mist throughout the day. On hot days like the ones we’re experiencing this week in Montreal, the Refreshing Toner is a welcomed break from the heat!
SERUM
After cleansing and toning, it’s time to apply your corrective serum. The GrenzCine serum uses Polyamine-DAB and Vitamin C to address skin concerns from the inside-out and the outside-in. It leaves skin more luminous and youthful-looking, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving elasticity. If you’re looking to address signs of aging, this is the serum for you!
MOISTURIZERS
Next up is an eye cream! One of the first places we notice signs of aging is around the eyes… and the neck and hands. GrenzCine Eye, with the same Polyamine-DAB and Vitamin C blend, is specially formulated for the skin on the eyelids and around the eyes. It helps increase the thickness and firmness of the skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and increasing moisture and luminosity.
This is where Vivier’s new launch fits in! Ideally, you would use the GrenzCine Face after your eye cream and before your sunscreen in the morning and retinol at night.
SUNSCREEN
If you haven’t been told yet, allow us to be the first ones to break the news to you: wearing sunscreen every. single. day is crucial to healthy, ageless skin. Not only can it protect you from skin cancer, but it will also protect you from early signs of aging. The Sheer SPF 30 Mineral Tinted sunscreen from Vivier is quite popular, mostly because of its light texture and subtle tint. Keep your skin protected from the sun, while providing it with an instant summer glow!
RETINOL
Another must in a skincare routine: Retinol. It is a powerful ingredient, so if your skin can take it, we highly recommend incorporating it. A vitamin A derivative, retinol increases collagen production as well as increases the rate of skin cell turnover, which is what you want as you age. This results in a more luminous, wrinkle-free and even acne-free complexion. The Retinol 1% Night Complex from Vivier is a popular one at Etiket. It’s also quite strong, which is why Vivier recommends applying it after your moisturizer.
Summer is finally here, and so is glamping season. Enjoying nature doesn't mean you have to give up the finer things in life, like a cozy place to snuggle and a crisp glass of Chardonnay. Discover a few essentials you'll need to pack to survive a getaway in the great outdoors.
Summer is finally here, and so is glamping season. What is glamping? Think of it as camping with a touch of luxe. Enjoying nature doesn’t mean you have to give up the finer things in life, like a cozy place to snuggle and a crisp glass of Chardonnay.
The finer things in life also include our beauty routines. Although glamping doesn’t necessarily rhyme with skincare and haircare routine, there are, however, a few essentials one needs to stay fresh and looking their best during a fun weekend getaway.
SKINCARE
At the end of a fun day in the sun, it’s important to get all traces of makeup, sunscreen, sweat and dirt off your face before bed. The Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil from Pai Skincare, in the 28ml size, is the perfect cleanser to bring on a weekend getaway. Pair it with the Consonant Cleansing Cloths – which are biodegradable by the way – and you’ve got yourself the ultimate double-cleansing routine!
As for your cream and sunscreen, we recommend packing the All Purpose Skin Cream from Egyptian Magic. As its name indicates, it’s an all-purpose cream, meaning you can use it for literally anything. Use it as a face and body moisturizer, after-sun lotion, hand and cuticle cream, makeup remover, eye cream, for cracked heels and elbows, and much more! When leaving for a trip, it’s best to keep luggage light. This all-purpose cream is many products in one convenient jar! As for sunscreen, we love COOLA’s Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Matte Tint for a weekend glamping trip. Its matte finish and universally-flattering tint makes it the perfect sunscreen to keep the skin looking fresh throughout the weekend. It’s also sweat and water-resistant, making it ideal for fun active days in the sun.
HAIRCARE
In order to keep your hair clean and tamed during your trip into the wild, we’ve gathered a few essentials you’ll need to pack in your overnight bag. For shampoo, we recommend you pack LoveFresh’s Shampoo Bar, as it is conveniently sized and is 100% natural and organic. This bar gently cleanses the hair and scalp without stripping it of its natural oils. It’s also biodegradable, septic safe, waterway safe, vegan, gluten-free and plastic free! You can keep your hair clean without harming the surrounding environment.
If you’re planning on a quick glamping trip, consider a dry shampoo to extend your pre-trip blowout. The Death Valley Dry Shampoo from R+CO is formulated with hydrating, strengthening and deeply nourishing ingredients that quickly add volume and body to your hair. It’s the perfect tool for a mid-trip touch-up.
Speaking of keeping hair fresh and looking fabulous, the Hydration Detangler + UV Barrier is a must for a weekend trip. Monica, one of Etiket’s in-store staff members actually recommended it, as it has become one of her staples when venturing off into the great outdoors. After spending a day in the sun, swimming in the lake or in the ocean, Monica reaches for this product to smooth her hair and fight frizz. Next-day gorgeous, moisturized hair guaranteed!
BODY
Now for the body products. First and foremost, we highly recommend COOLA’s Classic Body Sunscreen SPF 30 because it is water and sweat resistant. We also love it because it comes in a spray bottle, making it easy to cover your entire body. It’s also formulated with antioxidant and skin-nourishing ingredients that absorb quickly with no greasy feel. A great sunscreen for adults and kids!
On hot summer days like the ones we’ve been experiencing so far in Canada, deodorant is crucial. We love the ones from LoveFresh as they are offered in many different fragrances and are formulated without any harsh chemicals. They’re also offered in convenient travel sizes, making them the perfect addition to your getaway bag!
Don’t forget your toothpaste! We’re obsessed with the LEBON toothpastes because they’re all-natural. In fact, they’re formulated with organic Green Tea and organic Aloe Vera which help to naturally prevent bacterial growth, plaque formation, cavities, and to protect gums. Not only that, but they come in convenient travel sizes and an array of different delicious flavours.
Interested in finding more travel-friendly skincare, haircare and body products? Visit our website today!
Simon & Steve got together with Sahajan founder Lisa Mattam for an IGLive in which they discussed Lisa's morning skincare routine and how she incorporates Ayurveda into her daily life.
Have you heard of the Canadian beauty brand Sahajan?
Sahajan is an evidence based natural skin care brand based on the 5,000 year old science of Ayurveda. Derived from the Hindi word for “intuitive” – Sahajan brings you the evidence to follow your intuition and choose clean beauty.
Ayurveda, translated from Sanskrit, means the Science of Life. It’s a mind-body science that reminds us that we need to be in balance. Modern day stressors, the environment, and our diet get us out of balance. Ayurveda seeks to understand each person’s unique needs and turns to plant-based remedies, yoga, meditation and other practices to achieve that balance.
The founder, Lisa Mattam, is a former pharmaceutical executive, who after discovering her daughter covered in her commercial skin care products one day and worrying about the chemicals that were in those products, decided to turn to her family’s roots to develop her own Ayurvedic skin care brand. It was important to Lisa to build a brand that was about both Ayurveda and clean beauty. The all Canadian team worked with leading Ayurvedic doctors in Kerala, India to develop the products, but that wasn’t enough, Lisa wanted to prove their efficacy. All of Sahajan’s products have been through extensive regulatory reviews, clinical trials and consumer testing and are all made in Canada. Sahajan does not make any claims that aren’t backed up by science.
ETIKET X SAHAJAN
Did you catch Simon and Steve’s Instagram Live with Sahajan’s founder Lisa Mattam?
The pair talked to Lisa about her morning routine as a busy mother of two, wife and business owner. Like most of us, Lisa’s only has a few minutes to herself before she gets the kids ready for school. Although her routine had been thrown off-course with the ups and downs of Covid, it’s now back on track!
Lisa also talks about how she incorporates Ayurvedic practices into her daily life, and how good digestion and a healthy mind lead to glowing skin. For Lisa, it’s all about achieving a balance, and we couldn’t agree more!
THE ROUTINE
Lisa starts her morning routine by applying the Essential Cleansing Oil on dry skin. This natural oil cleanser will melt away even the toughest waterproof makeup; as well as dirt, oil, and residual pollutants which accumulate on your skin during the day. This cleanser will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, without drying your skin.
Next, Lisa applies the Balance Toner to her face with a cotton pad. This toner will help restore balance to your skin with the Ayurvedic blend of Moringa Oil, Rose Water, and Fruit Acids; gently exfoliating your skin with protective antioxidants that enhance luminosity and soothe skin after cleansing.
Lisa then follows up with her Radiance Face Serum. She likes to massage it into her skin using Ayurvedic massage techniques. This heavenly scented serum based in the 5000-year-old practice of Ayurveda is a delicious defense that provides a concentrated burst of powerful protection as it brightens and rejuvenates your skin.
Don’t forget the eyes! Lisa dabs a pea-sized amount of the Radiance Eye Cream around her eyes and on her eyelids. A little is all you need of this rich, clinically proven cream for glowing ageless skin. The formula is based on the 5000-year-old practice of Ayurveda and uses natural, plant-based oils to nourish, hydrate and brighten the face and neck.
Last but not least, Lisa’s desert-island product: the Nourish Face Cream. A little is all you need of this rich, clinically proven cream for glowing ageless skin. The formula is based on the 5000-year-old practice of Ayurveda and uses natural, plant-based oils to nourish, hydrate and brighten the face and neck.
As discussed in the IGLive, Lisa will usually use the Beauty Oil at night, but she’ll sometimes mix it with the Radiance Serum in her morning skincare routine, depending on her skin’s needs. Modern science shows us that oils are lipophilic, penetrating deep into the skin, trapping water and other moisturizing goodness in, being the ultimate free radical protector and keeping toxins out. This rich blend of Moringa, Hemp Seed and Frankincense Oils are brimming with over 90 nutrients and vitamins A, B, C &D to leave the skin quenched and glowing.
The new trend in the beauty industry is Skinimalism: the art of owning quality over quantity. Let's get to the bottom of this new trend, shall we?
Skincare routines can be very overwhelming. Good marketing makes us feel like we need every product under the sun to achieve the perfect complexion. However, that is not the case. A few key products, based on your skin type and concerns, can make all the difference.
My resolution this year is to own quality over quantity. That means researching more and curating my skincare routine to match my skin’s needs. Finding ingredients that work well for me and that truly make a difference in my complexion. The beauty industry is calling it skinimalism, and we’re here for it!
In short, this movement is about getting back to basics. What do we actually need? According to our aestheticians, you only need a few key products to achieve a healthy, glowing complexion that stays youthful over time. Let’s discover them together!
Gentle cleanser
A cleanser is a must in a skincare routine. We recommend opting for a gentle cleanser, no matter your skin type and concern. In fact, active cleansers can be harsh and irritating to the skin. A gentle cleanser, like Pro-Derm’s Gentle Cleanser, works for pretty much everybody. It gets the skin cleaned and prepped for your routine, without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
It remains to be seen if you need to wash your face in the morning. Some skin experts claim you do, others claim you don’t. However, one thing they all agree on is that you NEED to properly wash your skin at night. A double-cleanse is the only way to ensure the day’s grime, pollution, oil and makeup is completely washed off your face. To properly double cleanse, you should first start with an oil-based cleanser or a milk cleanser. This first step will loosen everything up on your face. For the second step, use a water-based cleanser, like a gel or a foaming face wash, to remove any excess off the skin.
Toner
Toners are the first step in targeting specific skin types or concerns. For example, if you have oily, acne-prone skin, you can incorporate an exfoliating toner into your skincare routine. AHA and BHA toners exfoliate the skin to unclog pores and increase cell turnover. If clogged pores and hyperpigmentation are some of your skin concerns, try Environ’s Alpha Hydroxy Toner or Huna’s Exfoliate Fruit Extract Toner.
On the other hand, if your skin is deeply dehydrated, especially during the winter months, try a hydrating toner, like the one from PCA Skin. Hydrating toners are a way to increase hydration before applying your moisturizer!
Treatment Serum
The serum you incorporate into your routine should reflect your skin type and needs. If you have larger pores, maybe you can use a treatment serum to address that concern. The Blemish + Age from SkinCeuticals, for example, is a great one for acne-prone skin. If you have dryer skin, maybe incorporate a Hyaluronic Acid serum like the HA Intensive Hydrating Serum from Environ.
There is a serum, however, that is known to have benefits for almost every skin type and concern: Vitamin C serum. This powerful antioxidant protects the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and is a skin brightening agent. In fact, it accelerates the production of collagen and elastin, reducing signs of hyperpigmentation and preventing premature aging. Many who use it notice an almost instant glow in their skin after incorporating it into their skincare routine. SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic is our best-selling Vitamin C Serum, as are the Vivier serums!
Moisturizer
A moisturizer is an integral part of a skincare routine. For every skin type. Morning and night. Not only should you apply it to the face, but to your neck and chest as well. The more areas you cover the better! Many prefer to use a thick moisturizer at night and a lighter one during the day, to wear under makeup. There aren’t really any rules. Whatever works best for you and your skin type.
Among people with oily skin, there is a misconception that you don’t need a moisturizer. That it will only make your skin produce more oil. I used to think this, so I get it. However, it’s actually the opposite. By hydrating your skin, you’re essentially telling your body that it doesn’t have to produce more oil. When you strip your skin of moisture, that’s when your body starts creating more oil, resulting in more breakouts! Don’t skip this step!
SPF
Arguably the most important step in a skincare routine. In fact, did you know that UV exposure is one of the main causes of skin aging? You can have the best skincare routine around, but if you’re not protecting your skin with a sunscreen, it’s all for nothing. No matter what, you should end your skincare routine with an SPF. Every day of the year, rain or shine. Discover our wide selection of sunscreens to start protecting your skin!
Need help building a skincare routine that works for you? Contact us at [email protected] or call us at (514)- 687-3886. Our beauty experts will help you find the right products for your skin type and concerns.
Have you met Paule, our medical aesthetician? She's the petite brunette with the glowing skin. Not a wrinkle, blemish or sign of pigmentation in sight. We're diving into her skincare routine to discover her secrets!
Have you met Paule, our medical aesthetician? If you’ve visited our boutique, chances are you have. She’s the petite brunette with the glowing skin. Not a wrinkle, blemish or sign of pigmentation in sight. Her skin is what many of us are trying to achieve: a healthy, bouncy, glowing complexion that you couldn’t put an age on. Therefore, it only seems natural to check out her skincare routine. Whatever she’s doing it’s working, and we want in on her secrets. Here is the full list of products Paule credits to keeping her skin looking young and radiant.
NUORI
This Danish skincare brand creates pure and 100% natural skincare products, completely free of synthetic additives that artificially prolong the shelf like of skincare formulas. Freshness ensures peak efficacy, as active ingredients are not weakened by time-related breakdown.
Nuori offers deeply hydrating and repairing products formulated with the highest quality ingredients. It’s no wonder why Paule turns to them. In fact, out of the range, Paule is currently using Nuori’s Perfecting Facial Oil and the Perfecting Body Oil. Both oils are designed to deeply nourish and balance the skin while helping diminish the visible signs of aging. They also both contain Vitamin E, which means that they offer antioxidant protection.
Formulated with a 4% glycolic acid, it works at an optimal concentration to promote cell turnover. It’s complimented by a 2% phytic acid to promote skin clarity and brightness. This overnight treatment hydrates while improving the appearance of skin texture and tone, revealing brighter, more youthful looking skin. Who doesn’t want that?
SKINMEDICA
Another giant in the skincare industry is SkinMedica. Like SkinCeuticals, their products have garnered much praise over the years. Take their Lytera 2.0 Serum. This longtime cult-favourite was formulated to address the appearance of stubborn skin discoloration. This non-prescription, non-hydroquinone, skin brightening product has not only been proven to lighten discoloration, but also to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
SkinMedica promises results in as little as 12 weeks. This product definitely has a hand in Paule’s flawless complexion!
VIVIER
This Canadian Beauty brand is all about healthy skin. Vivier has formulated a wide selection of skincare products that tackle everything from hyperpigmentation to aging skin. You may have heard of their Vitamin C serums. They are, in fact, what launched the brand back in the 90s.
Paule loves the Ultimage and Derma-V creams for their ability to hydrate, repair a deeply nourish the skin. Ultimage is an innovative dual-action complex with neuropeptides and hyaluronic acid that works to soften expression lines and wrinkles, and boost hydration for a smoother, ageless complexion.
Derma-V, on the other hand, is a skin repair and barrier cream with prebiotics and antioxidants. This product has been carefully crafted with a blend of 5 skin repairing ingredients that work with your skin to restore skin health and hydration levels while you sleep.
Need help putting together a skincare routine that works for you? Contact us at [email protected] or call us at (514) 687-3886. Our beauty experts will help you find the right products for your skin type and concerns!
Our story with Juliette begins a few years ago, when we discovered her chocolate shop on Sainte-Catherine. We wanted to learn more about how Juliette & Chocolat came about and how Juliette juggles life as a successful business owner, mother, wife and friend.
@juliettechoco
Our story with Juliette begins a few years ago, when we discovered her chocolate shop on Sainte-Catherine, just a few blocks from Etiket boutique (we’re practically neighbours!). Our love for Juliette & Chocolat grew when we learned more about the woman behind the brand.
In fact, Juliette & Chocolat was founded by a beautiful woman named… you guessed it, Juliette! All you need to do is follow her Instagram page to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how she runs her successful business with her husband and her 5 adorable kids. We wanted to learn more about how Juliette & Chocolat came about and how Juliette juggles life as a successful business owner, mother, wife and friend.
How did the idea of creating Juliette & Chocolat come to you?
I’m a foodie. Always have been, and I love to cook. Eating has always been one of my life’s greatest pleasures. I’ve always had a weakness for sweets. I can’t imagine ending a meal without a dessert, that just doesn’t make sense to me! When I go out to restaurants, I always start by asking for the dessert menu. Choosing my dessert first allows me to then choose my main course.
I got the idea of creating Juliette & Chocolat when I was at the end of my studies in Finance. At the time, I was looking for start-up ideas. Because I have such a sweet tooth, and because I wasn’t able to find any hot chocolate in Montreal like my grandmother used to make (!) the idea came to me to open a chocolate bar, similar to a coffee shop, but where one could sit and drink a hot chocolate. This idea then led to a menu filled with chocolate recipes, from hot chocolates and pastries to fondues and candies. I wanted Juliette & Chocolat to be a paradise for chocolate lovers. Finally, wanting there to be a French flare to the business, I added salty and sweet crepes to the menu.
With your own business and a family of five, how do you juggle it all and have time for yourself?
Hahahaha! I’m often asked this question. Honestly, it all comes down to being organized, while also being laid-back and taking life as it comes. Every hour of my week is organized, and I have “to-do lists” for every part of my life. I have a day planner that allows me to stay on top of everything. However, if at the end of the day, the house is a mess, the dirty dishes are still on the counter and the kids go to bed a little past their bedtime, I don’t lose sleep over it. I’d say that I also have an amazing support system in my personal and professional lives (even though the two overlap). I have friends and colleagues that are as invested in my business as I am and who want to see me succeed. I’m very blessed in that respect.
How do you start the day? What is your morning routine?
My mornings are always chaotic: imagine a house of 7 people who all went to bed late the night before! I help the kids get ready for school, make sure I have my eye makeup on … it’s a little like a race against the clock, though we do manage to eat breakfast all together. No coffee for me, I have enough energy as it is! Instead, I make a healthy, vitamin-filled smoothie for us all to drink before heading out the door!
I then drop the kids off at school. Making sure everyone gets to school on time, with their schoolbooks, lunch and PE clothes is a challenge… it’s like a little victory every morning.
What does your everyday beauty routine look like?
Morning: My routine is remarkably simple. I hydrate my skin with a cream I have on hand (I’m lucky enough to receive beauty products as gifts, so I switch them up a lot).
Night: My nighttime routine is also simple. I wash my face with cold water and a gentle cleanser. Right now I’m using the Peoni Cleanser from JB Skin Savvi. After that, I hydrate my skin with the Peoni Oil from JB Skin Savvi.
Do you do something special to take care of your skin?
Once or twice a week I will deep clean my skin with a Clarisonic brush. Besides that, I hydrate my face and body every night.
What’s the best beauty advice you’ve ever received?
Happy people are beautiful, be happy!
Who is your beauty inspiration?
Audrey Hepburn
What does your makeup routine look like?
I apply makeup everyday but I keep it simple. I apply a kohl liner that I bought at a souk in Damas when I lived there. It’s a black liner that stays put all day. I love it! After that, I apply a few layers of mascara. From time to time, I add a neutral eyeshadow and a pop of blush to the cheeks.
What beauty products can we always find in your handbag?
Hahahaha, I have more toys in my purse to keep my kids entertained than I do beauty products. I always have a lip balm (does that count?). Sometimes, I’ll have a lipstick in my purse for touch ups throughout the day.
I’m a huge fan of Angel by Thierry Mugler. It’s a sweet, candy scent and so enticing to me. I have no idea how I found it, but I can recognize it anywhere!
What do you do to unwind at the end of a busy day?
I play with my kids, I read, I cook, I watch movies with my family, I never run out of ways to unwind at the end of the day. I always find time to relax and to ground myself. It’s the key to not burning out!
Double cleansing, as the term indicates, is the process of cleansing your skin twice in order to remove any dirt, makeup and sunscreen from your skin. Keep reading to find out why you NEED to be double-cleansing in order to get the most out of your skincare routine.
Double cleansing, as the term indicates, is the process of cleansing your skin twice in order to remove any dirt, makeup and sunscreen from your skin. Why is it so important to get everything off your face? Well, if you don’t start your nighttime skincare routine with a blank canvas, every product, every ingredient that you apply on your skin, will not work to the best of its abilities because it’s blocked by whatever dirt or makeup that is left on your skin. You’re basically throwing money down the drain by not properly cleansing. Double cleansing is especially important at night since, as we all know, your skin repairs itself when you sleep. Don’t rob yourself of this crucial period!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
First cleanse
The goal of the first cleanse is to soften and break down the makeup, dirt, and sunscreen on your skin. Even on days when you don’t wear makeup, you should still double cleanse to get rid of any sunscreen on your face. Many sunscreens can be clogging for your pores, which is why you need to make sure you get it off at the end of the day.
Second cleanse
Now that you’ve loosened everything on your skin and rinsed it off, your second cleanse is meant to get rid of anything left behind. For this step, you can go in with your regular face cleanser, or one with active ingredients designed to treat a specific skin concern, such as a cleanser with AHAs and BHAS.
WHAT PRODUCTS TO LOOK FOR
For the first cleanse, it’s important to look for cleansing oils, balms or milk cleansers. These products will, when applied to dry skin, emulsify and loosen up everything on the skin. Those of you who are nervous about using an oil or balm on your skin, don’t worry! You’ll remove any trace of the first cleanse when you go in with your second, water-based cleanser. Our best-selling cleansing oil is the Light Work Cleansing Oil from Pai Skincare. As for balms, Kat Burki’s Vitamin C Nourishing Cleansing Balm is one of our favourites!
For the second cleanse, if you want an effective cleanser that is gentle on the skin, Pro-Derm’s Gentle Cleanser is a best-seller and loved by the Etiket staff. The second cleanse is also where you can use a more targeted treatment cleanser, like the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser. The choice is yours!
If you want to make the most out of your skincare routine, it’s crucial you start it off with a double-cleanse. Allow your skin to fully benefit from the products and ingredients in your skincare routine! Discover our variety of facial cleansers here!
Winter is the season for self-care. It's cold out, the air is dry and the days are short. All we want to do is stay inside with a warm cup of tea, take a bath and indulge in a lengthy beauty routine. On self-care nights, masks are a must. Discover our top 10 best-selling face masks!
Winter is the season for self-care. It’s cold out, the air is dry and the days are short. All we want to do is stay inside with a warm cup of tea, take a bath and indulge in a lengthy beauty routine. On self-care nights, masks are a must. We finally have the time, why not treat ourselves?
The thing with masks is that there are soooo many to choose from. It can sometimes be overwhelming to find the right one for your skin type and concerns. To simplify the process for you, we’ve listed 10 of our best-selling face masks. For each of them, we’re telling you what they do, who they’re good for and how you can benefit from them. Let’s discover them together!
HYDRATING FLORAL MASK
Tata Harper’s Hydrating Floral Mask is the perfect remedy for dry and dehydrated skin. In fact, this mask contains high levels of hyaluronic acid to recharge dry skin, replenish lost moisture and deliver thirst-quenching hydration. Not only that, but it smells amazing. The perfect addition to the self-care night in!
ULTRA PURIFYING CLAY MASK
Vivier’s Ultra Purifying Clay Mask is carefully crafted from red and white kaolin clay, alpha hydroxy acids and salicylic acid to draw out impurities, firm the skin and absorb excess sebum. This mask helps reveal flawless-looking skin without excess shine. If you have oily, acne-prone skin or are dealing with clogged pores, this may be the perfect mask for you.
MICRO-PEEL
The right amount of exfoliation is key to achieving a glowing complexion. In fact, an excess of dead skin cells can cause the skin to look dull. A once or twice a week exfoliating mask like the Micro-Peel Mask from Pro-Derm can be just what you need! Formulated with glycolic acid, this mask will help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of pores and reveal a fresh, glowing complexion!
ANTI-POLLUTION MASQUE
Every day, our skin is exposed to environmental toxins such as air pollution, smog, cigarette smoke, gas exhaust, among other things. This exposure can cause premature aging of the skin, acne, collagen breakdown, hyperpigmentation, and other skin conditions. For that reason, it’s important to find products that combat this damage. Environ’s Anti-Pollution Masque is formulated with Japanese charcoal and special botanicals to help absorb pollutant impurities. Your skin will feel revitalized and smooth after this treatment mask!
SUPREME MOISTURE MASK
NUORI’s highly concentrated, yet lightweight moisturizing mask is the ultimate treatment for dehydrated and distressed skin. Grape and Damask Rose waters combined with natural Hyaluronic Acid effectively restore moisture levels, while botanical Squalene and Betaine strengthen the skin’s barrier function. Anti-inflammatory chamomile extract reduces irritation and restore suppleness, while Vitamin B3 revives skin tone, improves elasticity, and prevents moisture loss.
ULTRA HYDRATING MASK
This is another great hydrating mask for dry or dehydrated skin. Vivier’s Ultra Hydrating Mask is formulated with an exclusive blend of rich vitamins and extracts. This luxurious mask helps plump the skin, diminish signs of fatigue and soften fine lines and wrinkles. Restore your skin’s natural radiance in only a few minutes!
BRIGHTENING MASK
Dealing with hyperpigmentation? Or in need of a skin boost? Sahajan’s Brightening Mask is formulated with 100% natural ingredients to increase skin’s radiance. With potent natural and amino acid rich ingredients to help balance, tone and nourish the skin and AHAs to gently exfoliate, that coveted dewy glow is yours for the taking! Suitable for all skin types.
DETOXIFYING MASK
In need of a good detox? This at-home Charcoal mask uses a blend of Japanese white charcoal, clay and the naturally-occurring mineral Magnesium Aluminum silicate to minimize the appearance of pores while absorbing excess dirt, oil and debris trapped deep in the pores. Perfect way to wash off the week and start fresh!
HYDRATING B5 MASK
A cult-favourite SkinCeuticals product for a reason! Enhanced with a unique complex containing constituents of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF), this weekly hydration treatment re-establishes the water balance critical for maintaining skin metabolic functions at optimal levels. An intensive, effective hydrating mask for every skin type!
CURTAIN CALL MASK
Brightening masks can sometimes be harsh on sensitive skin, due to their acid contents. If this is the case for you, try Pai Skincare’s Curtain Call Mask. This Rosehip fueled rescuer boosts tired skin leaving it radiant and dewy. In ten minutes your complexion is audience-ready. Formulated to glide on evenly and polish off easily with the enclosed Muslin Cloth, the buttery cream leaves skin soft and dewy. Packed with calming botanicals and entirely free from irritants, it is ideal for sensitive or reactive skin!
Valentines Day is a time to indulge in a luxurious night in by yourself or with your partner. It's been a tough year, you deserve to treat yourself with some of Etiket's most romantic products.
Let's discover our Valentine's Day must-haves!
Valentines Day is a time to indulge in a luxurious night in by yourself or with your partner. It’s been a tough year, you deserve to treat yourself with some of Etiket’s most romantic products. From enchanting perfumes, facial massage tools and body oils, to flavorful toothpastes and lip products for kissable lips, discover our Valentine’s Day must-haves to celebrate self-love or your love for your partner.
AGENT NATEUR
In the spirit of celebrating love, discover Agent Nateur’s Holi (Sex) oil. We all deserve pleasure, whether with or without a partner. This oil-based, quick-absorbing formula (think Organic Coconut and Sweet Almond oil) is Agent Nateur’s solution to the chemical-filled lubricants on the market. But Holi (Sex) is not just for your intimate area. Use it all over to hydrate the body and leave behind a lingering scent of Jasmine, Coconut, Rose, and Vanilla.
LEBON
Make it a fresh kiss this Valentine’s Day with an all-natural LeBon Toothpaste. LeBon toothpastes are formulated with ethical and natural ingredients combined with delicious and exclusively perfumed natural notes from Grasse, France. They all contain Certified Organic Aloe Vera and Green Tea to naturally help protect gums and prevent tooth decay. LEBON Toothpastes are vegan and naturally sweetened with Stevia Rebaudiana. They also have a non-ending “free of” list: cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfates, fluoride, titanium dioxide, … Stay fresh with complete peace of mind.
Parfums de Marly
Fragrance is super important when celebrating Valentine’s Day. If you’re celebrating self-love this year, fragrance is an instant confidence booster. Spray some on and enjoy a night-in for yourself. If you’re celebrating with a partner, an enticing floral smell like Delina will bring out the romantic in you. Trust us, your partner won’t be able to keep his or her hands off you…
Sara Happ
Get your lips ready for the occasion with the queen of all lip products: Sara Happ. The Pink Grapefruit Lip Scrub eliminates dry, flaky skin, leaving your lips ridiculously soft and supple. Perfect for Valentine’s Day! You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
RMS BEAUTY
Now that your lips are soft and supple from using Sara Happ’s lip scrub, apply RMS Beauty’s Tinted Daily Lip Balm for hydrated lips with a tint! Packed with all the good stuff lips crave, RMS tinted balms simultaneously pamper, protect, nourish and flood your lips with flavourless, fragrance-free, healthy hydration. Pucker up!
