Author: Margit Rüdiger

CultureAndCream Author from Munich To travel during my profession as a beauty journalist was never enough for my. Also my six month on a world trip didn't do it. It always attracts me to other cities, foreign countries, on roadtrips and places I don't know yet. But I am not only interested in "culture" and "cream", I am also fascinated by people who have stories to tell .  Such unique experiences I want to share with you.

Full of charm: Magdalener Hof in South Tyrol

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The Magdalener Hof above Bolzano is a recommendation from the heart. Because with really good hotels it’s like with a new love: You can’t get enough of them, want to tell the whole world about them and would prefer never to say goodbye. The four-star hotel in the midst of the Dolomites is just a ten-minute drive from Bolzano, the center of South Tyrol’s capital. Close enough, then, for extended shopping and sightseeing tours. And yet the Magdalener Hof is far enough out to be able to really switch off from daily routine. View of the mountains, jump into the pool And there are plenty of opportunities and locations to do so: for example, at the freshwater pool, which at 4×12 meters is large enough for you to swim your laps in peace or doze on an air mattress. For additional refreshment, the pool service provides delicious drinks from the hotel bar. Enjoy the view of the vine-covered mountains. You can also relax in the stylish lounge corner with jungle wallpaper in a wonderfully manicured garden. It is especially romantic in the evening with a sundowner in hand. Those who like to relax indoors retreat to one of the new exclusive deluxe rooms and suites in the adjacent annexe with the significant name “More Magdalener”. Its construction marked the beginning of the constant rejuvenation that the Magdalener Hof has undergone in recent years. It all started with the new annex. After its opening, the double rooms in the main house were completely renovated. The former conference room became a cool and modern gym in 2018. Food and beverage at Magdalener Hof The leafy panorama terrace is also a dream for relaxing – and for getting your fill with pleasure. Mediterranean dishes such as homemade pasta and pizza, seafood salad, tartar from South Tyrolean beef and a paella, which also has its fans outside Bolzano, ensure this. The cuisine of Magda, as friends affectionately call the Magdalener Hof, is market fresh, seasonal, mostly regional, very refined. In short: it tastes excellent! The perfect complement to the culinary fireworks comes from the hotel’s own wine cellar, which dates back to the 14th century. Italian and French classics are stored there, along with top wines typical of the country. Tip: For a nightcap, the lounge & bar in the adjacent building, which is designed in the style of the twenties, is a wonderful place!… weiterlesen

My new hip is inside me!

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It annoys me a little when I hear people who have already had an artificial hip tell me how easy it all was. They always say in unison: “I was able to walk again immediately afterwards” and “If I had known, I would have had it done much earlier. But in reality, joint replacement is not at all as simple as it is often made out to be. By the way, endoprosthesis is the technical term. I experienced this on my own leg. But probably this forgetting is a similar phenomenon as after a birth. As soon as the mother holds her baby in her arms, all the pain and strain are a thing of the past. In truth, implanting an artificial hip joint is anything but a walk in the park. It is a long journey. And I don’t mean the four hours of paralyzing waiting time. Since the early morning, I had been sitting in a waiting room in front of the television in a sterilized surgical shirt, bathrobe and blue overalls on my bare feet, freezing together with several fellow sufferers. Each of us had to wait until a nurse rolled us in a wheelchair to the operation. I am not talking about the operation as such. The endoprosthesis was hammered into my previously milled out thigh bone in 40 minutes, the only 6cm long wound on the outside closed again – sewn inside in several layers, stapled on the outside. New hip: I could not lift my leg Much worse was what came afterwards. When I woke up three hours after the anesthesia in a very nice single room, I first probed my body and tried to lift the leg with the operated hip. I couldn’t. It was as if all the muscles that I had trained myself for years through sports had suddenly disappeared from the entire leg. I couldn’t even put my foot up in bed. The previous arthritis pain in my hip was gone, but I had severe soreness and muscle pain. Every few hours I was given appropriate medication, and in between – especially at night – a painkilling injection. So for the first few days after the procedure, I lay on my back in my hospital bed like a stranded bug, unable to turn to either side. To get up I needed the help of a nurse. I could stand on the operated leg only with my yellow crutches for support.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: „3 Minutes Mask Agave“ from Urtekram

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3 Minuten – So ungeduldig wie ich bin, ist das genau die richtige Zeit, die eine Maske bei mir brauchen darf. Die 3 minutes – As impatient as I am, this is exactly the right amount of time that a mask may take with me. The Agave Face Mask by Urtekram promises a moisture boost for the complexion in this record time on. The mask like all products of the Nordic Beauty brand show five good reasons for natural cosmetics lovers to like it. Urtekram products are: vegan, made in Denmark, certified by Ecocert Cosmos Organic, 99-100% natural origin, bottled in plant-based packaging and of course not tested on animals. What Nordic Beauty does not put in the tube: silicones, parabens, microplastics and synthetic preservatives. Pioneering spirit and commitment What does Urtekram actually mean? In Danish, Urte stands for herbs. These are the herbs and plant-based ingredients used in the biodegradable products. Kram means embrace, because the brand sees itself as a loving, warm embrace of nature. This also applies to packaging: over 85 percent of organic products are filled in plant-based packaging made from sugar cane waste. This means less use of conventional plastic made from petroleum and more care for our environment. Recyclable bioplastic is a more sustainable alternative that provides hygienic and safe packaging protection, especially for liquid products, without decomposing in the shower. In the yellow bag it is clearly recognized as plastic and easily recycled. 3 minutes – transparent face mask „Agave” If you expect a mask of the same color because of the sky blue tube, you will be disappointed. The texture is transparent and thick like a gel. I apply it with my fingers on the cleansed face, but you can also use a flat, wide brush. On the skin, the mask develops a pleasant coolness. It smells fresh and of alcohol, but it soon dissipates. Thanks to agave and aloe vera, it is an absolute moisture booster. The tissue seems to really soak it up. In the shower, I wash off the mask after three minutes. Not so easy. The texture has become a bit sticky. I use a disposable glove to help me, which makes it easier to remove. But the result is impressive: The skin is intensely refreshed, feels supple and glows. Once or twice a week is worth three minutes to me. „3 Minutes Moisturizing Face Mask Agave“ by Urtekram, 75 ml, ca.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: „Phytoceutix Neck- & Décolleté Cream“ from Doctor Duve

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A special neck and décolleté cream is a hotly debated topic in cosmetics. Do you need it or not? Can’t you just use your face cream for the neck as well? You can, but you have to. Munich dermatologist Dr. Stefan Duve also knows that this is often not the case. He says: “My experience of more than 20 years shows that the neck and décolleté often get a raw deal when it comes to care and protection – yet damage here is much more difficult to repair than on the face. That’s why good sun protection and careful care are so important!“ Using the face cream also on the neck and décolleté is better than nothing. But if you want to go one step further, get a special product. That’s why Dr. Duve, in collaboration with a renowned Swiss laboratory, has expanded its Medical Skin Care line to include targeted neck and décolleté care. With its special blend of active ingredients, it provides even more intensive care for smooth and supple skin in these two often neglected zones. It contains an efficient active ingredient combination of peptides and valuable plant ingredients. Anti aging super stars First of all, there are peptides. Simply explained, they are small protein building blocks that are composed of short chains of amino acids. They are considered the new superstars in anti-aging skin care. Why? Peptides activate collagen and elastin production and thus reduce the external signs of skin aging such as wrinkles and sagging. In addition, the cream contains a secret weapon from Ayurvedic medicine: Indian frankincense (Boswellia). Due to the acid it contains, frankincense has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and provides relief from numerous skin infections. Other active plant substances, such as Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit Extract obtained from the Tara tree, regenerate the skin and at the same time protect it intensively against harmful environmental influences. The tissue structure is strengthened, the complexion looks firmer and younger. Neck cream has paid off Since I have been intensively involved with beauty from a professional point of view, I have been using special care for my neck and décolleté. Firstly, because my not exactly inexpensive face cream then lasts longer and secondly, because a product that is precisely tailored to the needs of these sensitive zones works more effectively. When I look in the mirror, I know that it was worth it: no wrinkles, no bumps, and no creases.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Hyaluronic acid concentrate „ha densimatrix“ from mesoestetic

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Hyaluronic acid (HA) in the field of skin care is not exactly a novelty. However, it is exciting when a brand like Mesoestetic launches a hyaluronic acid concentrate on the market. After all, the brand is the world market leader when it comes to medical cosmetics and cosmetic medicine. Mesoestetic belongs to Grupo Body esthetic Laboratories from Barcelona. The pharmaceutical company has been producing cosmeceuticals and cosmetic therapy devices of the highest quality for three decades. Mesoestetic founder and CEO Joan Carles Font said: “The excellence of our work, the efforts in research and innovation, and the proven efficacy of our products alone have brought us this far.” Hyaluronic acid concentrate with cushioning effect Therefore, I was particularly curious to see what is in the azure blue 30ml pipette bottle. Already the name “ha densimatrix” is program: densification of the matrix. In skin, matrix is the part of the tissue that lies between the cells and surrounds them like a mesh. The moisturizing and plumping anti-aging concentrate is intended to be active on several levels at once and provide long-lasting deep-acting hydration. Responsible for this is the Densimatrix complex, which combines hyaluronic acids of different densities (cross-linked, high, medium and low). An anti-hyaluronidase complex protects against HA degradation and blocks the effects of harmful external influences. Last but not least, the anti-aging pro-complex prevents loss of elasticity by promoting collagen and elastin synthesis. The task of the hyaluronic acid concentrate is therefore: correction of age-related skin problems such as wrinkles, expression lines, loss of elasticity and tone. Well moisturized First, I test the hyaluronic acid concentrate on the back of my hand: The texture drips ultra-light and not a bit tough from the pipette. It is also absorbed immediately and does not leave this sticky feeling as is often the case with HA serums. For me, nothing speaks against applying the product on the face. I clean my skin and dry it carefully. Then I put three drops – enough casually for face and neck – on my fingertips. On the skin I massage the product until it is completely absorbed. Goes quickly. You can hardly feel it on the skin, except that it feels well moisturized in no time. After that, I apply my cream with high UV protection as usual. But the concentrate can of course also be used under any other care product. After six weeks of daily use in the morning and evening, my skin is actually already significantly plumper.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Face Mist „Radiant Protection Mist“ from Royal Fern

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I use a facial spray all year round because it’s a good moisture booster and settles makeup. But especially in summer, I’m especially grateful to have a small bottle handy in my handbag. At the moment, I like to reach for “Radiant Protection Mist” by Royal Fern. It promises not only more glow, but also protection against environmental pollution and the Blue Light from computer and smartphone. A face mist for all occasions I have been using the new spray for quite some time in the morning over my day care, on hot days in between, on the plane or before a Zoom meeting when the complexion needs an update. It is a facemist that not only promises glow, protection and moisture for the skin, but also keeps its promise. And this is what Dr. Timm Golueke, founder of Royal Fern Anti-Aging Skincare, says. „”You can also still incorporate the face mist into your skincare routine: Used between your different skincare steps, the spray maximizes the effectiveness of your skincare products. Especially if you use products with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, they can penetrate better into the skin.“ Like the Munich dermatologist’s entire herbal skin care line, the face mist contains Royal Fern Complex. It has an antioxidant effect, reduces inflammation and contributes to overall healthy skin. Other potent active ingredients include Centella Asiatica, a powerful antioxidant and a rich source of amino acids. For protection against Blue Light provides butterfly ginger and hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin and visually reduces fine lines and wrinkles. As an additional moisturizer, polyglutamic acid lays on the upper layer of the skin, replenishes and locks in cell moisture. The skin texture appears smoother and more even. „Radiant Protection Mist“ from Royal Fern, 30 ml, 54 $ lead photo by blackday @shutterstock… weiterlesen

Tested for you: „Self Tanning Drops“ from Biodroga

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I find lightly tanned skin more beautiful than distinguished paleness – at least on me. But I just don’t like to go out in the sun with my face. That’s why I use a self-tanner in summer and winter for a delicate tint. It is part of my daily skin care routine. I find tanning drops like those from Biodroga particularly practical, because they are uncomplicated to use and can be dosed perfectly. You can apply them pure or mix them into your day care. To make sure I get an even result, I always do a gentle enzyme peel before the first application, which removes the dead skin cells from the surface. In the days that follow, I refrain from all exfoliating activities and do not use toners or creams with exfoliating agents such as salicylic, glycolic acid or retinol. After 3-4 days I peel again and reapply tanning drops. Self Tanning drops – works quite simply If I want a more intense tint for the face, I apply 2-3 the tanning drops pure to cleansed skin in the morning. Distribute evenly, allow to absorb briefly and then apply the usual care. For a rather light tint, I mix 2 to 4 drops in the morning under my care product. To do this, I put the drops on the palm of my hand, add the right amount of my day care product. I mix both with a small spatula, which I clean thoroughly each time afterwards, and distribute the mixture evenly on the cleansed skin. Smart ingredients Orange discolored skin, discolored clothing or a patchy tan – this used to happen frequently with self-tanners. You no longer have to worry about that with the new generation. The “Self Tanning Drops” contain the active ingredients erythrulose (a self-tanning agent of natural origin) and dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The two substances combine with the amino acids of the uppermost layers of the skin, which then turns brown. In addition, aloe vera moisturizes the skin, has an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. It also contains numerous vital substances. Panthenol helps to soothe the skin. Especially for sensitive skin, it has a soothing, regenerating and moisturizing effect. „Self Tanning Drops“ from Biodroga, 15ml, 24,50€… weiterlesen

Does A Gender-Neutral Lipstick Really Exist?

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Beauty brands that offer gender-neutral makeup are mushrooming. Gender freedom may make sense in other areas, but isn’t a bit excessive when it comes to makeup? The question arises, what distinguishes a lipstick for women from a lipstick for each sex? Does that make sense or is it all just marketing again? When it comes to defining gender, fine distinctions are made today. We no longer simply speak of women and men, but are cis-women and cis-men. These are those who identify as “male” or “female” with the gender recorded on their birth certificate and clearly say of themselves “I am a woman” or “I am a man.” “Cis-“, by the way, comes from Latin and in this context means, this side, within, inside, and is thus the opposite of trans-, on the other side, over, across. In addition to these cis people, there are trans male/trans man (trans man, born a woman, now a man) and trans female/trans woman (trans woman, born a man, now a woman), also gender queer/gender non-conforming (gender neutral, without gender role) and finally different identities. Cosmetics was long female occupied You have to admit that all PR campaigns and commercials released by cosmetic companies in the last decades have been female-centric. The target group clearly defined: Woman between 18 and 36 years, good income and in the background a husband (it was always a husband!), whose beauty shopping, she did at the same time. At the same time, the use of makeup is in no way traditionally female. In fact, men were the first users of cosmetics. As early as 4000 B.C., rulers and members of the nobility in ancient Egypt painted their faces with dramatic black cat’s eyes, because they used them to demonstrate their prosperity and also believed that they were closer to the gods in this way. Romans practiced manicures with pig’s blood, and the British smeared themselves with blue paint as a deterrent. From the 20th century onwards, the use of make-up was considered transgressive for men. Nevertheless, even in this period there were notable exceptions, true icons like David Bowie or Prince, who underlined their uniqueness through make-up. In 2003, the first make-up collection for men was launched. Enfant terrible Jean Paul Gaultier then launched his “Le Mâle Tout Beau Tout Propre” collection consisting of moisturizer, bronzing powder, lip gloss, nail polish, brow and eyelash care, concealer and eyeliner. Metrosexuality was the name given to this change in gender perception.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Natural lipstick from marie w.

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With natural lipsticks, I am always somewhat reluctant to buy. They usually lack color brilliance and intensity, especially with red tones. Therefore, I was curious how the new color “Rosentango” by Marie W. looks on my lips. A few more words about marie w. The founder behind is Maria Wißler. She describes herself as a quality fanatic and pioneer when it comes to plants, animals and cosmetics. 22 years of pioneering work for natural cosmetics lie behind her. After “green” studies, she founded the first mail-order natural cosmetics business. Her principles are still valid for her today: care with plant extracts, preferably from organic cultivation, free from synthetic preservatives and petroleum chemicals. Her raw materials, such as organic shea royale from Uganda or organic argan oil from Morocco, come from fair trade sources. In this way, she supports women’s projects in the respective countries. When it comes to her lipsticks, Marie Wißler is also committed to sustainable business, protection of the environment, nature and climate, and fair and social production conditions. The natural lipsticks contain only a few, but highly pure ingredients. Real gold, for example, and precious, hand-pressed organic vegetable oil from African fair trade women’s projects. The pencils are packaged in an environmentally friendly manner in sleeves made of the renewable raw materials wood and paper. The brochure is printed with mineral oil-free inks. A combination of highly pure iron oxides, as found in the earth, is used for the colors of the pencils.noxide verwendet, wie sie in der Erde vorkommen. Natural lipsticks with real gold But back to “Tangorose”. The first thing that strikes me is that the application is easy. The pencil is designed so that I do not need a contour pencil, which I usually use. So I trace the mouth contour with the pen tip and then paint the entire surface of the lips with color. I’m surprised at how intense the red tone turns out. It also feels feather-light on the lip skin and is perfectly blended with the natural tint after 1-2 minutes. The gold content in the texture gives a matte shine without being obtrusive. It also creates a pleasantly cool feeling on the lips and, together with the nourishing plant oils, acts as a moisturizer. The natural lipstick also passes the durability test with flying colors. It’s long-lasting and stays where it should be, namely on the lips. It neither settles in the lip wrinkles, nor on cups, glasses or the cheeks rather friends.… weiterlesen

Vigilius Mountain Resort: By Cable Car To The Hotel

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The Vigilius Resort in South Tyrol has a lot to offer. Not only that a time-out in the green is in vogue at the latest since the forester and nature lover Peter Wohlleben launched his book “Forest without guardians” in 2007. Strolling along spruces, larches and pines has been proven to reduce stress levels and clear the mind. The 5-star Hotel Vigilius Mountain Resort in South Tyrol is all about this sustainable lifestyle. From the pretty village of Lana near Merano, the cable car takes you up to the idyllic Vigiljoch, where the sustainable, green hotel is perched at a lofty 1,500 meters above sea level. The motto there: less is more. Guests can expect birdsong, mountain panoramas and wonderful peace and quiet – cars are only allowed to drive in the evening and only to a limited extent. A refuge above the clouds that stands for deceleration with heart. Because the spirit among the staff is familiar, the contact with the guests friendly. Aperitivo on the piazza In the evening, before dinner, guests meet for the obligatory Italian aperitivo in the Piazza, an elegant and cozy lounge area with the character of a living room and access to one of the hotel’s three panoramic terraces. Aperol Spritz, sparkling wine, non-alcoholic cocktails and wines are offered along with finger food – free of charge: the unobstructed view of the magnificent silhouette of the Dolomites. Right next door, in the library room with its ceiling-high shelves, the screen is regularly lowered to make all those guests happy with movie nights who are missing a TV in their room. Fascinating architecture At the Vigilius, nature plays the leading role. This is ensured by the unique architectural style of South Tyrolean star architect Matteo Thun. In 2003, he created the beautifully designed complex, which resembles a reclining tree, with 41 rooms and a chic spa area, where treatments such as the new 80-minute Signature Treatment with sheep’s wool followed by a full-body massage enhance the wonderful feeling of absolute relaxation. The minimalist yet homey décor of the Klimahaus-A certified design hotel is also made entirely of renewable resources such as wood, stone, clay as well as glass. Small-figure women’s sculptures and red color accents are the only standouts in the timeless building, which is also fondly referred to as an “island in the mountains”. Exquisite dining Absolutely worth mentioning: The creatively arranged food at Vigilius immediately catches your eye.… weiterlesen

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