So, what exactly makes the Synactif facial so special? After years of research, Clé de Peau Beauté discovered a way to strengthen our lymphatic channels – when they are in a healthy state, they help to purify skin by removing harmful substances that cause the dermis to easily wrinkle, puff and become dry. I left my treatment at Bergdorf Goodman and was literally glowing – everyone in the FashionIndie office commented on my radiant complexion. I experience no redness or breakouts following the nurturing treatment, which is always a concern for my sometimes troubled skin. The question that immediately followed was “how can I continue to get my skin in such prime condition on the daily?” The answer lies inside the beautiful box above. Page two has all the juicy details.

Maui Babe Browning Lotion: My all time favorite tanning oil is brewed by a family recipe in Hawaii. Used over SPF 30, this will give you that true brown, not orange, you crave.

Alba Botanica Coconut Dry Tanning Oil: Made with coconut oil and a substantial SPF, this all natural product protects and serves.

Clarins Sun Care Spray: With SPF 15  built in, and a non-oil base, this promises to protect from the sun and give you a natural glow.

Australian Gold Intensifier: With Colorboost(TM) maximizer made from carrot seed, banana extract and aloe, this makes and attracts color at the same time. Use over SPF 30.

No-Ad Style Dark Tanning Oil: It has an SPF 4, which is essentially nothing. But it’s non-advertising scheme keeps it cheap at around $6.50. Use over higher SPF.

Ocean Potion Xtreme Intensifier: Certainly needs SPF underneath, but it’s properties, including tea tree oil, help make you tan and hold it fast longer.

Ed Hardy Diving Dragon Spray Oil: Ed Hardy is of the GTL persuasion. But again, pairing it with an SPF will keep you looking less Jersey Shore and more like yourself, only tanner.

Bain de Soleil Orange Gelee Sunscreen: This product promises a deeper glow and a longer lasting tan. And it’s Paraben free, so you’ll at least be avoiding that kind of cancer.

Arizona Sun Tanning Oil: With an SPF of 3 and a whole host of tanning agents, this will get you brown. Again, use SPF 30 as a base so as to not burn to a crisp.

Banana Boat Protective Tanning Oil Spray: This had been a staple in my tanning ritual for many years before the time of Maui Babe. It’s got a solid SPF you can feel good about, and results that make you dark.

Disclaimer: Any oil use will attract the sun more so than just SPF alone. It can lead to more skin damage and leaves it more susceptible to the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. Sun bunnies, you’ve been warned. But we doubt this is news to you, so all we can say is tan responsibly.

There are tons of products out there tailored for sensitive skin. We have a rundown of the best below. One pointer from Dr. Schultz – exfoliation products on the market will only irritate delicate skin more. Make sure to talk to your dermatologist about an exfoliation routine that is right for you.

Protect. No matter what your skin type may be, you must always wear a sunscreen to protect yourself. BeautyRx Maximum Solar Defense Sheer Cream for Face SPF 50 is safe for all skin types, including sensitive, and is uniquely effective immediately after application. For the body, Clinique Sun SPF 30 Body Cream is gentle enough for sensitive skin and provides a high level of UVA and UVB ray defense.

Cleanse. Over-cleansing can be just as damaging to sensitive skin as not cleansing at all. The key is to wash your face twice a day, at the most, with a gentle, no-frills cleanser. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, originally formulated for dermatologists, will not strip the skin of natural oils or disturb its natural pH balance. As for the body, a milk-based cleanser is soothing on ailing skin. L’Occitane Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap in Milk is 100 percent vegetarian and gentle enough for everyday use.

Tone. According to Dr. Schultz, toners are necessary to prepare the skin for sunscreen and moisturizer. You have to be especially careful when choosing a formula because many contain alcohol, which can irritate sensitive skin. AmorePacific Treatment Toner Alcohol-Free Freshener is suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive.

Moisturize. Like a drink of water, our skin needs to be hydrated daily. Sebamed Paraben-Free Moisturizing Body Lotion was developed by dermatologists and is enriched with chamomile extract and allantoin to soothe and moisturize. For face, Jurlique Calendula Cream calms and soothes sensitive skin prone to redness.

For questions about Dr. Schultz or any of the products above, get at me on Twitter @CrystlMeatballs.

1. Lucky Brand Lazy Days Macrame Tote, $71.20 – The perfect color and texture for a day at the beach.

2. Jack Spade Leather Flask, $125 -  Just in case there’s no booze around, you can bring your own.

3. Nalgene OTF Water Bottle, $12 – Alcohol and sun WILL dehydrate you and leave your skin looking nasty. Make sure to drink plenty of water.

4. Sun & Sand Yellow Striped Straw Hat, $20 – Sun protection never looked so chic.

5. Roxy Lucille Flip Flops, $22 – Cute and functional, these beaded sandals are the perfect boho footwear.

6. Assouline American Fashion Travel, $45 – Get inspired and plan your next trip while soaking up the sun.

7. Clarins Sunscreen Soothing Cream SPF 20, $37.50 – This anti-aging, water-resistant sunscreen soothes while it protects.

8. NARS Cosmetics Multi Protect Primer SPF 30, $39 – Fortified with anti-oxidants, this primer works both on and off the beach.

9. Norma Kamali Bill Embellished Halterneck Bikini Top and High-Waisted Briefs, $450/$4oo – You will be a siren in this gorgeous vintage-inspired two-piece.

10. Converse Backstage With The Band Sunglasses, $58 – Over-sized for ultimate sun protection and fab factor.

11. CALYPSO St. Barth Kimberly Dress, $195 – The perfect frock to throw over your bikini when it’s time for lunch on the boardwalk.

12. Marimekko Unikko Pink and Red Beach Towel, $85 – You’ll never lose your place in the sand with this bright towel as your guide.

If you have any questions about the items or brands shown above, tweet at me @CrystlMeatballs.

Among the changes:

- Sunscreens must offer proportional UVA and UVB protection, and if they don’t, they have to have a warning on the label stating that “it is not shown to protect skin cancer or early aging.”

- “Sunblock,” “waterproof,” and “sweatproof” are terms non grata. Apparently, they “give consumers a false sense of protection.” Instead, “waterproof” and “sweatproof” will be labeled “water resistant.”

-SPF 100 is a lie. The FDA might limit SPFs to 50 since there’s not sufficient proof that sunscreen offers any greater amount of protection. And furthermore, “experts say these high SPFs can give consumers a false sense of security.”

So what have we learned from the FDA, kids? A. We’re all going to die. B. Sunscreen is more or less useless. And C. Consumers are easily lulled into a false sense of security/protection/safety.

Happy Summer! [Allure]

1. Wear sunscreen to protect skin and hair. This is the most important type of sun protection you can get without staying indoors. If you are going to be poolside, at the beach or even spending a day at the park, it’s good to apply these products 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. Aveeno Positively Ageless Lotion For Face SPF 70 is great for the delicate skin on your face and Coppertone Oil Free Lotion SPF 30 Sunscreen is a classic that can be used everywhere. Keep those beautiful locks free of sun damage with Ouidad Sun Shield Sun & Sport Leave-In Spray or Phyto Phytoplage L’Originale Protective Beach Spray.

2. Use an everyday moisturizer with SPF. Just because you’re not in direct sunlight all day doesn’t mean the sun’s harmful rays aren’t reaching you. Wearing a moisturizer with SPF either alone or under makeup all the time will prevent even the smallest amounts of sunlight from infiltrating your skin. DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew™ and Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 20 are both great products.

3. Leave-in conditioner will help repair hair. If you’re heading to the pool or beach, things like chlorine, salt and sun can be tough on your mane. Combing a leave-in conditioner through hair will keep damage at bay. Turn to Hamadi Organics Shea Leave In Conditioner or Skin by Monica Olsen Leave in Conditioner with Moroccan Oil, available at Duane Reade, for maximum care and protection.

4. Don’t forget about your lips! The delicate skin on your lips is in need of protection more than you know, so don’t neglect that gorgeous pucker. Wearing lip balm with SPF every day will defend lips from harmful rays and keep them moisturized. Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 and Benefit Benetint Lip Balm SPF 15 will keep your pout supple and prevent damage and dryness from the sun.

5. Don’t forget your sunglasses. Not only for the purpose of looking fabulous, a pair of good sunglasses can save both your eyes and the delicate skin around them. When out all day in the sun, make sure you have shades large enough to cover a substantial portion of your face. I’m sure you indies have your favorites, but Gucci Square-Framed Acetate Sunglasses, Victoria Beckham Round Nite Acetate Sunglasses and Yves St. Laurent Animal-Print Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses are all great options if you’re looking to buy.

6. Don’t be afraid of hat hair. Wearing a hat on long days in the sun protects both your face and hair while adding a stylish touch to your outfit. Go for something with a wide brim that provides a good amount of coverage. I’m obsessed with the Kangol Braid Siren Hat, and this Missoni Striped Woven Sunhat is a cheery, colorful option.

1. Moisturize. Dry skin flakes which means makeup will look scaly when applied to dry skin. Always start with a moisturizer, and give your skin a few minutes to absorb before starting makeup application. Apply over the entire face and neck, then concentrate on dry or problem areas with a little extra. Ole Henriksen Truth Revealed™ Super Crème SPF 15 will moisturize and protect your skin from the sun all day and leaves it with a light sheen and luminous glow.

2. Conceal. The first thing to tackle are those dark circles under your eyes. You don’t want to use foundation for this purpose because concealer needs to be just a touch lighter than your skin. Clinique Line Smoothing Concealer is light and works like a charm – a little product goes a long way for maximum coverage.

3. Apply the RIGHT color foundation. Finding a perfect match for your skin is absolutely crucial to a flawless face. Lines and streaks form when foundation is a different shade than your complexion. The best thing to do is ask for assistance. Find the girl (or guy) at the makeup counter with the clearest, most natural looking skin. They can tell you the best color for your face. If no one is around or you’re in a hurry, make sure to test a few near your jawbone to pick the best looking color for you. When applying foundation, a little goes a long way. Just use it to even-out your skin tone; caking it on blemishes makes them look more noticeable. NARS Sheer Matte Foundation controls oil and enhances, without hiding, your overall natural complexion.

4. Seal it with powder. Foundation will melt away quickly if you don’t apply this topcoat of sorts. Powder increases the staying power of foundation and smooths the appearance of your skin. Again, make sure you find the closest color match to avoid looking like you’re wearing a mask. A sheer powder for day like Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil doesn’t look too heavy. If you are going to a big event where the chance of being photographed is high, nothing looks better on camera than MAKE UP FOR EVER Duo Mat Powder Foundation. Don’t forget a great application brush like Sephora Collection Professionnel Platinum Powder Brush #50.

5. Cut glass with your cheekbones. Although foundation and powder even out the complexion and conceal blemishes, they tend to flatten the natural contours of the face. Adding a highlighter to the cheekbone, starting at the point level with the outer corner of your eye and swept in a light, upward/outward motion toward your hair line, works wonders. This gives the appearance of higher, more defined cheekbones. Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Pure Gold gives your skin a unique, reflective finish that accentuates the cheekbones.

6. Put some flush in your cheeks. A rosy cheek is a lovely cheek, or so we’ve been told since the beginning of time. Give yourself a healthy flush with a little blush on the apples. Not sure where to apply? Smile big -  the roundest part of your cheeks toward the side of your face is the target. Lightly dot on blush with a professional brush, making sure not to overdo it. Too much pink will totally cancel out all of your hard work so far. Your face will look instantly brighter with a dose of Benefit Bella Bamba. The Tokidoki Siberia Blush Brush is both adorable and perfect for application.

What are some of your makeup tips for creating a flawless face?

1. WASH YOUR FACE. I know it sounds easy, but we’ve all been to that dark place at 4:30 a.m. after a night of drinking when you just want to pass out in your warm comfy bed. Here is something I have learned the hard way – routine is everything, and you will never have nice skin if you don’t take your makeup off at the end of the day. A gentle, no-frills soap that rinses clean is your best bet. My favorite, as simple as it seems, is the Neutrogena Facial Cleansing Bar, fragrance free. I know it sounds ridiculous, but this bar actually makes me want to wash my face because it feels so clean after.

2. Exfoliate, but not too much. There are tons of medical exfoliation treatments out there like chemical peels and microdermabrasion that could damage skin in the long run and make it more difficult to regenerate cells. But it is good to remove dead skin, so an exfoliation treatment twice a week will leave skin feeling soft without overworking it. I swear by the Skin by Monica Olsen Refine Deep Penetrating Clay Cleanse and GRAM Skincare Daily Scrub.

3. Use an alcohol-free toner to balance and hydrate skin. Alcohol dehydrates our skin and bodies, so why should we rub it all over our faces? Ditch your old toner and get something soothing and non-irritating like the Borghese Effetto Immediato Spa Soothing Tonic for Sensitive Skin. Gently massage it into your skin twice a day with a cotton pad to hydrate your skin. You can also spritz it on your face throughout the day as a cool, calming refresher.

4. Moisturize your skin and protect it from the sun. The sun is our skin’s worst enemy, so it is absolutely crucial to slather on a moisturizer with SPF before you step out of your house. It’s best to use SPF 25 or higher, so Murad Essential-C Day Moisturizer SPF 30 is a good bet.

5. Take off your eye makeup before washing your face. Leaving mascara on your lashes only to flake of into your precious and delicate eyes can cause serious irritation and even infection. Again, alcohol is the enemy, so choose wisely. Sephora Collection Eye Makeup Removing Pads are hassle-free and moisturize lashes in the process.

6. Purifying masks feel great and work wonders on stressed skin. Masks can be tricky because if used too much, they can stress the skin out, making it too dry. But learning to detect when your skin needs a detoxifying treatment can move mountains. By eliminating dead skin cells and drawing out impurities, our skin has the energy to generate new cells and create a flawlessly fresh face. REN Multi Mineral Detoxifying Facial Mask keeps skin toned and decongested.

7. Eye treatments are beneficial to people of all ages. Just because you’re young and spry doesn’t mean you should neglect the most delicate skin on your face. There are hundreds of eye treatments out there to remedy everything from dark circles to wrinkles. Elizabeth Grant makes a dynamic eye treatment duo call The Socializer. Bright Lights helps to erase last night’s party: one swoop of the pen is cooling, soothing and hydrating, helping to get rid of puffiness and dark circles. Apply Late Nights before bed to look refreshed and awake in the morning, even if you’re running on four hours of sleep.

8. A good moisturizer will get you through the night. We are supposed to start the day with a tall glass of water because sleeping dehydrates the body.  Boscia Oil-Free Nightly Hydration provides weightless, 8-hour hydration for the skin while combating excess oil. Especially if you are prone to breakouts, this is an excellent cream. For ultra-dry skin, Boscia Restorative Night Moisture Cream is a great product.

Soft, flawless skin takes work, dedication and a few really great products. But once you get going with a routine, it is hard to break after seeing the results. What are your favorite skincare brands and products?

I think we’ve all pretty much figured out by now that the heat wave isn’t letting up. With August just around the corner it’s just a few short weeks before the sun gets even more intense, but not to worry. Lavanila has created some essential products to keep us cool and protected in the summer sun. Lavanila Healthy Sunscreen is  a 100% natural mineral sunscreen that offers youth-promoting antioxidants. The sunscreen is a great choice for sensitive skin, and don’t worry, you won’t catch those white streaks anywhere.

Yep, remember those leather shoes you wore in 6th grade, that are now somehow back in style, their maker now makes sunscreen! Cuz you want your sun protector made in the same factory as your rubber soles!

1. Sunscreen

FashionIndie’s Pick: Almay Smart Shade Makeup

The new Almay Smart Shade Makeup is a foundation, moisturizer, and sunscreen all in one. With a variety of shades to fit your skin tone, the product comes with SPF 15 and goes for $14.

2. Chapstick & Lipgloss

FashionIndie’s Pick: Palmer’s CoaCoa Butter Chapstick

Cocoa Butter may look like a gluestick but I can never leave the house without it. Trust me, get the chapstick and it will be an instant addiction. The Palmer’s product goes for about $4.

3. On-The-Go Razor

FashionIndie’s Pick: Diva by Shavemate

The second I saw this I was instantly fascinated. The 6-blade, $10 pack of 3 razors comes with shaving cream inside of the handle. Put one of these in your makeup case, press and shave and your good to go!

4. Anti-Friz Hair Product

FashionIndie’s Pick: Belegenza SpotLite Shine

Belegenza’s SpotLite Shine eliminates fly aways and softens your hair’s ends almost instantly. The $18 product works fast to eliminate frizz on those hot summer days.

5. Water Proof Mascara

FashionIndie’s Pick: BADGal Lash

Before you run to the beach or hop in the pool, be sure to grab BADGal Waterproof Mascara. BADGal will transform your lashes and keep them that way for just $19.

6. Pedicure Kit

FashionIndie’s Pick: Pedispa

Sometimes your just too busy to sit down for a full pedicure at the nail salon, but you need to keep up that foot care. Pedispa is an at-home pedicure kit that keeps your feet in top-knotch condition for $24.99.

7. Nail Strengthener

FashionIndie’s Pick: Sally Hansen’s Diamond Strength

If you ever get tips, sometimes your nails get in poor condition. Apply Sally Hansen’s Diamond Strength instant nail hardener for $5 to strengthen nails and keep them in healthy condition.

8. Hair Repair

FashionIndie’s Pick: Belegenza RoMANce Deep Conditioning

Often from all those trips to the beach and pool during the summer, people get dried out hair. To reverse the poor effects on your hair from your fun in the sun get RoMANce from Belegenza for a deep conditioning experience at $28.

9. Absorbing Sheets

FashionIndie’s Pick: Boscia Vanilla Blotting Linens

Boscia Vanilla Blotting Linens are perfect for those hot summer days. Unfortunately in all the heat your face gets some unwanted shine; slip the $10 sheets in your bag and you’ll be good to go!

10. Cuticle Oil

FashionIndie’s Pick: O.P.I. Avoplex

O.P.I. Avoplex nail and cuticle oil for $10 keeps your nails and cuticles from getting dried out throughout your busy week. Just apply a bit of the oil to dry cuticles or rough skin and you’ll have instant moisture.