I'd been anticipating the January launch of Bobbi Brown Beauty-Boosting Face Masks, and despite my many trips to the BB counter in Amsterdam was left empty-handed and wondering, what's all the hype? I practically had butterflies when I saw them on display in Harrods a few weeks ago. Yes, I'm that ridiculous! Lets 'face' it, every product Bobbi Brown releases is great - you can't go wrong with this premiere cosmetic line. It's no surprise that I purchased all three masks. I would have purchased the mini's too, but they didn't have them (insert sad face).

I'm branding these masks - The Miraculous Makeover Mask Trio. Instant Detox, Radiance Boost and Skin Nourish can be used together or individually to address your specific needs. I have overdosed on all three and love the results.

The Instant Detox is my favorite. This clay-based mask is creamy, has a refreshing citrus scent and kinda cools your skin while you detox. Hawaiian Sea Salt Water and Amazonian White Clay work together to remove impurities, reduce pore size and maintain moisture. This mask will leave you feeling refreshed and super clean. The Instant Detox deep cleanse removes excess oil, tightens my skin and my complexion looks AMAZING! I use the Instant Detox in the center of my forehead, down my nose, on my cheeks and chin. At the same time, I apply the Skin Nourish around my eye area (not too close to the eye), around the edges of my nose (where it gets super dry and flaky), and around my eyebrows (they're dry from Browfood - a hair growth treatment). Combined, these masks address both my skin issues at once. This deep cleanse/nourishing treatment is my favorite facial pick-me-up.

I also use the Skin Nourish twice a week before bed. This super-moisturizing mask contains hydrating herbs Coral Grass, Salicornia, and Trehalose, Collagen producing Chlorella Extract, and Muru Muru Butter to repair your skin's natural moisture barrier. This lightweight mask is creamy, the scent is calming, and I love a mask that you can leave-on throughout the night. Apply liberally and wait two-five minutes. Then gently remove the excess product and massage the remaining onto your skin. In the morning you will have plump smooth, nourished skin.

The superfine Walnut Grain Beads in Radiance Boost, gently exfoliate your skin and improve circulation. While the Kaolin Clay reduces oil, Algae Extract and Sodium Hyaluronate moisturize your skin, and Orange Oil energizes. I have Rosacea, and very sensitive skin, so I'm not surprised that this gentle exfoliator causes my forehead, nose and cheeks to turn red. Once the redness diminishes, my skin feels super-tight (I like that), and my complexion is brighter. The orange scent is invigorating - I'm partial to citrus scents in facial care cosmetics. 

Directions: Instant Detox can be used once a week (or two if necessary). Apply, allow two-five minutes to pass and remove with warm water. Skin Nourish can be used three times a week. Apply, wait two-five minutes, gently remove access and leave the remaining product for overnight nourishing. Radiance Boost can be used once a week (or two if necessary). Apply, let it sit for two-five minutes and rinse off with warm water while gently massaging in circular motions.  

The application of these masks is quick, but the results last. I should mention that the packaging is great. The metal-like tubes are flexible and you can roll them up, allowing you to get as much product out as possible. 

Skinceuticals reigns supreme in skincare products. This dermatologist recommended brand has just about anything you need to combat every problem. I am definitely a fan and it's no surprise that I turned to Skinceuticals for a 'non-prescription' retinol treatment. Clinically diagnosed rosacea temporarily suspended my prescribed anti-aging treatments, but after years of combating this condition, I'm back at fighting the ageing process. Retinol is undoubtedly a great way to replenish your skin, combat wrinkles and revive your otherwise dull complexion - but not without side effects! I'm sure you've heard horror stories about retinol and I'm sure they're all true - I have a few of my own. In the end, it's about moderation and finding what regimen works best for your skin.

I recommend this four-step regimen twice a week to start and increase as needed. Wash your face with Skinceuticals Gentle Cleanser. Of course, it's 'gentle' on your skin, refreshing and nourishing. Then apply Skinceuticals Eye Cream to combat dark circles, puffy under eyes and protect this sensitive area from the retinol. Next, apply a pea-size amount of retinol to your entire face (avoid eye area). I suggest starting with retinol 0.5 and increasing it to 1.0 if needed. Wait 30 minutes (or more) and apply Skinceuticals Epidermal Repair. I use this product for repairing my skin after retinol, sunburns, and any severe dry skin conditions I may have - It's a must-have in my skin care regimen.

The more serious side effects of retinol are chapped skin, severe dry patches, burning and redness. While reducing these side effects, this four-step regimen will nourish your skin, allowing for healing between application and extreme nourishment from the Epidermal repair cream. Retinol will diminish wrinkles, combat discoloration and give you a more even complexion. It's a great solution to ageing skin, but use with caution and don't rush in.