Beauty & the Beat
Spring Forward Beauty, Part II: I found my latest discovery — Josie MaranCosmetics — in an unexpected place — QVC
Josie Maran cosmetics' Argan Oil
Josie Maran's Argan color stick in Petal Pink
Argan Natural Volume lip gloss in Voluptuous by Josie Maran
I recently made a serendipitous beauty discovery. No, not by perusing the latest Allure magazine, but by channel surfing, of all crazy things.
It was a Friday night and I had the rare pleasure of having the house (and most importantly the TV remote) all to myself. Bored with the typical Real Housewives' and Kardashian gals' antics, I stumbled upon QVC's Friday Night Beauty program featuring Josie Maran Cosmetics.
In 2007, Josie Maran, a former supermodel, created a line of 100% natural, organic cosmetics based upon Argan oil's uber anti-oxidative properties. I was vaguely familiar with Argan oil via my positive experience with the ever-so-hydrating Moroccan Oil hair products, so an Argan oil based skincare and cosmetic line hooked me immediately. Turn up the volume!
Maran discovered Argan oil a few years ago while on a photo shoot in the south of France. During this shoot, she noticed a beautiful older woman with skin that defied her actual age by decades. Maran asked the woman to share her beauty secret and the radiant woman enthusiastically revealed that Argan oil was responsible for her glorious complexion. A few years later, motherhood inspired Maran to create her eponymous cosmetic line committed to socially and environmentally responsible products, packaging and processes. The result? Josie Maran Cosmetics, Luxury with a Conscience.
So what is Argan oil? Also known as "Moroccan Gold", it is a natural oil derrved from the Moroccan Argan tree nut. Argan oil has been used in Moroccan culture for centuries for its legendary moisturizing and nutritional benefits as this liquid gold contains the world's richest source of Vitamin E and essential fatty-acids.
Argan oil's multi-tasking properties intrigued me as Maran explained that this "all-in-one" product may be used as a facial and body moisturizer, as well as a hair conditioner, even a bath oil. Additionally this hard-working elixir reduces acne scarring, moisturizes hands, revives dehydrated nails, and is even gentle enough to be used on babies' skin.
OK, I'm sold. I have a weakness for all things Moroccan anyhow, but as it turned out, there was a philanthropic cause that forced me to dial in to QVC and order Josie's introductory Argan Oil sampler kit. Apparently the Argan nut is truly the proverbial "tough nut to crack." However, some truly industrious Moroccan women were so successful in perfecting the oil's difficult extraction process, the Moroccan government created a unique female cooperative to produce the Argan oil continuously. This co-op provides the laboring ladies with fair trade, education, steady incomes and empowerment in this traditionally male-dominated culture. You go, girls!
Days later, my Argan oil products arrive at my door via USPS. Love that postal beauty.
After using the kit's contents exclusively for several weeks, I confirm that Josie Maran's products are hands down impressive. Note that this Argan oil is imported from Morocco, but Josie's paraben-free vegan products are formulated in the USA, as well as 100% organic to boot. As described, just a few drops of the Argan Oil Moisturizer are insanely emollient from head to toe.
Surprisingly lightweight, this "Moroccan Gold" packs a powerful moisturizing punch and absorbs into my skin, hair, and nails instantly; definitely a keeper! I would even add the Argan Oil Moisturizer to my "top five items needed on a desert island." list. Josie's Argan oil joins an all-star cast including my Neutrogena SPF 70 sunscreen, DiorShow Mascara, my Sonicare toothbrush, and assorted chocolate anything.
Voilà, my Josie Maran Argan Oil introductory kit's cosmetics' cheat sheet (with product shades in parentheses):
Creamy Argan Concealer (Butter) - A quick swipe across my eyelids, under eyes and around my nose erased any redness and magically evened out my complexion. Very emollient, absorbed readily and hours later, it remained in place with no cakiness in sight!
Argan Tinted Moisturizer (Butter) - Delivered lightweight moisture, natural coverage and best of all provides necessary SPF 30 protection, so important in Texas' sunny climate. However, I found this product just a bit too thick for my needs, so I added a drop of the Argan Oil Moisturizer to concoct my own perfect consistency.
Argan Color Stick (Peony Pink)- Preciously portable and adds believable sheer color for a healthy spring glow. Added bonus: may be used as a lip balm.
Argan Lip Gloss (Authentic)- Loved this! Remarkably moisturizing lip gloss, and it naturally enhanced my lip color with just enough shine. Oh, and let's discuss the gloss's over-the-top delicious dulce de leche (caramel) essence: yummy!
I would purchase all of these products again. Josie Maran Cosmetics range from approx. $12 to $100. Currently my original Argan Oil Introductory Kit is not available. However you will find Josie's extensive product line benefitting naturally glamorous girls of all ages and a full spectrum of complexions at Sephora boutiques, or surf the web over to josiemaran.com or QVC.com.
Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. No renumeration was given in exchange for these products.
