As I not-so-slowly climb up the age ladder, I find myself increasingly interested in skincare products that help repair and protect my skin. And lately, Murad has been my go-to because of the specialized formulas that target my skincare concerns. Specifically, I’ve been testing out the Murad Environmental Shield line because it was recommended during my facial at a local Massage Envy Spa.
Founded in 1989 by Howard Murad, M.D., the namesake brand includes 88 consumer products featuring a variety of product lines targeting specific skin concerns such as clogged pores (Pore Reform), redness and sensitivity (Redness Therapy), age and dark spots (Environmental Shield) and even a line for men (Murad Man). Naturally, having spent the majority of my life under the Arizona sun, I decided to try out their Environmental Shield products. Rich in Vitamin C, these products are designed to reinstate your youthful glow.
To start off, I tested three of the eleven products available in the Environmental Shield line.
Murad Intensive-C Radiance Peel ($49.50 for 1.7 FL. OZ.) – Touted to dramatically reverse environmental aging caused by sun, smog and stress (perfect for any city girl!), this vitamin-packed regimen is a must for your weekly beauty routine. This powerful peel packs a punch without that medicinal smell I despise in many peels. Applying once or twice a week is sufficient in achieving smoother, brighter skin reminiscent of your youthful, and less tortured, skin. While the packaging warns of a slight tingling sensation, that surprisingly was not my experience, as peels do typically irritate my skin.
Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum ($89 for 1.0 FL. OZ.) – This fast-acting serum is said to improve brightness, clarity and radiance by 60% in less than one week. How is a spa girl to resist that? Upon applying the light and airy gel, I immediately noticed the subtle citrus scent without being overwhelmed. Just a few pumps go along way, so be careful not to overdo it. Not too watery and not too thick, the gel left a fresh, clean feeling without the sticky residue I so often find in Vitamin C products. It is the perfect prelude to a nice day or night-time moisturizer.
Murad Instant Radiance Eye Cream ($68 for 0.5 FL. OZ.) – Tired, baggy eyes are a dead give away to a stressed out spa girl. While usually skeptical of products that promise the world, their claim to minimized dark circles by 30% in 15 minutes doesn’t seem too far off. With the fluffy consistency and subtle citrus aroma, this light cream appears to do the trick to brightening eyes and hiding yet another late night. I even noticed some of the darker discoloration on my eyelids subside, which is perfect for those al-natural days.
All-in-all, I am loving this vitamin-C rich product line! The light, airy texture is perfect for the desert heat while the antioxidant-rich ingredients create a powerful defense against premature wrinkles and negative environmental effects.
Try the Environmental Shield Introductory Kit. This compilation of products features a 30-day supply of Essential-C Cleanser, Acitve Radiance Serum, Essential-C Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Gel, Intensive-C Radiance Peel and Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15. At $39.95, it’s the perfect package to test-drive each product.
Murad is available locally at Massage Envy Spas or online at murad.com.
