Skip to main content

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.

Tested for you: From Instagram: Meroda Cosmetics’ “Changing Foundation” adapts to any skin tone

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . 1 Comment on Tested for you: From Instagram: Meroda Cosmetics’ “Changing Foundation” adapts to any skin tone

A changing foundation would save many women the often tedious and time-consuming search for the right shade of makeup. Innovative color technology could be the solution. It contains encapsulated pigments that adapt to the individual skin tone through the warmth and pH value of the skin. I wondered if this could work and ordered the “Changing Foundation” from Meroda Cosmetics via Instagram. I ordered the “2-in-1 Build & Conceal Brush” at the same time, because it is said that the most natural makeup results are best achieved with a brush. „Changing Foundation“ and brush from Meroda Cosmetics are delivered quickly. The packaging of both products is appealing and high-quality. The foundation in the 30ml glass bottle looks white. How will it look on my skin? I’m skeptical. First, I apply my day cream and sunscreen as usual. Then I take a small amount of the white texture from the pump dispenser and spread it from the center of my face outwards using the 2-in-1 brush. Quick color change of the “Changing Foundation” When it first touches my skin, I’m a little alarmed because the foundation is very light, almost white, on my complexion. But that changes quickly. The warmth and my skin’s natural acid mantle (pH value) activate the tiny, encapsulated micro-pigments. The color change happens as I blend it in. The pigments unfold their color and actually adapt seamlessly to my natural skin tone. Applying the foundation with a brush has the advantage that the pigments penetrate deep into the skin and no white streaks form. The effect is a naturally beautiful and flawless finish. The skin is well cared for and moisturized. This is ensured by the nourishing ingredients: glycerin attracts moisture for soft, supple skin. Sodium hyaluronate achieves deep hydration and tocopherol (vitamin E) has strong antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage by free radicals and inhibit inflammation. Second application If you want more coverage, for example to conceal any blemishes or redness, you can add a second layer of foundation. I try it out of pure interest to see what the result will be like. And I am honestly amazed—my complexion looks even, without appearing overly made-up or mask-like. Even with two layers, the makeup product feels incredibly light on the skin. Equally important: none of the color settles, even after prolonged wear. The foundation promises to last up to 16 hours. However, I haven’t tested that.… weiterlesen

Sun Protection In Winter! Is That Really Necessary?

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Sun Protection In Winter! Is That Really Necessary?

54.2 percent of Germans aged 18 to 74 do not use sunscreen in fall and winter. Almost half associate sun protection exclusively with summer, the beach, or the swimming pool. Only 17.7 percent apply sunscreen daily—despite growing awareness of UV protection. At least, those are the results of the latest IKW survey. Sun protection should really be a year-round issue. Even in winter, UV radiation is still present. Although the sun is lower in the sky and temperatures are low, its rays can still damage the skin. However, the latest representative survey conducted this winter by the market research institute Lönneker & Imdahl rheingold salon on behalf of the “Industrieverbandes Körperpflege- und Waschmittel” (IKW) shows that for many people in Germany, sun protection is still not a matter of course during the cold season. More than half of those surveyed stated that they do not use sunscreen in autumn and winter. And almost half (48 percent) consider sun protection to be less important in winter than in summer. The reason: 46.8 percent associate sun protection exclusively with summer, the beach, or the swimming pool. Growing attention, but little routine At the same time, the survey shows that general awareness of sun protection is growing. 58.8 percent of respondents say that they pay more attention to sun protection today than they did in the past—women (65.1 percent) even more so than men (52 percent). However, this knowledge is only reflected to a limited extent in everyday life. Only 17.7 percent take preventive action and use sun protection products every day when they are outdoors. There seems to be a clear gap between knowledge and behavior: although sun protection is increasingly perceived as important, it is not yet part of a fixed routine – especially in winter. This is also evident in daily skincare routines during the cold season: both women and men pay little attention to sun protection in winter. While 28.4 percent of women say they incorporate sun protection into their skincare routine in winter, the figure for men is only 21.6 percent. The difference is even more pronounced among young adults: men between the ages of 18 and 29 protect themselves even less frequently than women of the same age. It is also striking that women and men are more likely to use sunscreen only occasionally in winter, for example on skiing vacations or during longer periods outdoors. For example, 33.4 percent agree with the statement that they only use sunscreen during the cold season when they spend longer periods of time outdoors.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Sheet mask “Everything Hydrogel Mask” by Dr. Barbara Sturm

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Tested for you: Sheet mask “Everything Hydrogel Mask” by Dr. Barbara Sturm

Sheet masks aren’t really my thing. They’re too slimy on the face and often too runny. They are also known as fleece or cloth masks. These are pre-cut fabric masks made from materials such as cellulose, cotton, bamboo, or organic cellulose. They are saturated with a concentrated serum (e.g., with hyaluronic acid or collagen) and provide the skin with intensive care and moisture. Since they conform to the face, they act as an occlusive system. This has the advantage that active ingredients are transported deeper into the skin because they cannot evaporate. Despite my reservations about this product category, I decided to try Dr. Barbara Sturm’s new sheet mask, the “Everything Hydrogel Mask.” I was intrigued by the ingredients: Hydrolyzed lupine protein: This peptide-rich protein visibly firms the skin. Biofermented purslane is an anti-aging powerhouse that soothes the skin and restores its vitality. Glutathione: A powerful antioxidant that promotes a more radiant, luminous complexion. Triple hyaluronic acid promotes hydration to visibly plump and smooth the skin. Avocado polyphenols restore radiance to the complexion and achieve a more even skin tone. Vegan collagen helps to plump and moisturize the skin. Sheet mask with advanced hydrogel technology Sturm: “The mask features advanced hydrogel technology that contains highly effective active ingredients and biomimetic moisturizers to penetrate deeper layers of the skin and revitalize the complexion for a radiant, refreshed glow.” The benefits that the sheet mask is supposed to provide also sound promising: Hydrating: Moisturizes for supple, refreshed skin. Brightening: Evens out the complexion and promotes radiance for a glowing glow. Tightening: Improves firmness for a tightening effect on the skin. Smoothing: Refines the appearance of pores for a smoother, more even skin texture. Plumping: Visibly restores volume and smooths fine lines for more fullness. Soothing: Relieves discomfort and reduces redness for balanced skin. Application: surprisingly pleasant I was pleasantly surprised by the application of the sheet mask. The two-part mask is neither too wet nor too thick. It is easy to remove from the backing film. First, I place the upper half of the mask on my cleansed face, then the lower half. The mask fits perfectly to the contours without sticking out at the edges. None of the essence runs down. I even use the extra cut-out section for the mouth, because the lips also need some care. The mask feels so comfortable on my face that I could even work during the 10-minute application time.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Violet hair mask “Blonde, White & Grey Beautifying Hair Care Mask” by Hair Rituel by Sisley

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . 1 Comment on Tested for you: Violet hair mask “Blonde, White & Grey Beautifying Hair Care Mask” by Hair Rituel by Sisley

Violet is my guarantee for beautiful hair. With my silver-colored strands, I am always on the lookout for effective hair care products with the so-called anti-brass effect. This is because white-silver, gray, and bleached hair is particularly sensitive and extremely susceptible to color changes. Due to its low melanin content, it lacks a natural protective shield. That’s why external influences such as UV rays, chlorine, and environmental pollution can often lead to an undesirable problem: brass or yellow tones. Violet pigments in hair care products can prevent or reverse these yellow and orange tones and restore the hair’s original brilliance. This is because violet is a complementary color to yellow in the color wheel and can neutralize discoloration. To prevent this from happening in the first place, a delicate balance in the hair’s “chemistry” is required. Violet hair mask for blonde, white, and gray hair The Blonde, White & Grey Beautifying Haircare Mask from Hair Rituel by Sisley comes in a dark purple tube. It uses phyto-active ingredients from balsam combined with walnut shells to perfectly neutralize unwanted brassy tones in seconds. Incidentally, the phyto-active ingredients are grown and harvested exclusively for Hair Rituel by Sisley in France. Thanks to the optimized dosage of purple pigments, hair color is corrected without the risk of purple stains. But that’s not all: the mask’s formula is enriched with artichoke leaf extract to protect against new color tones, while myrtle combats environmental damage and sustainably enhances the protective effect. Protection and care The protective effect against unwanted color changes is long-lasting and noticeable after each application. This is because the mask contains a highly effective restorative complex to care for the hair. Ceramide-like molecules and baobab proteins strengthen the hair fiber to reduce breakage. This ensures that the hair is well prepared for the next color treatments at the hairdresser, such as balayage, coloring, or highlights. Shea butter, meadowfoam oil, and provitamin B5 form a protective barrier and ensure soft, supple, and shiny hair. It looks stronger and healthier. Three minutes is all it takes The violet hair care mask is quick and easy to use. It has just the right texture—not too thick and not too runny. The enveloping cream texture should be applied twice a week to washed, towel-dried hair and worked in from the roots to the tips. Massage into the scalp and leave on for three minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with water.… weiterlesen

Retiree beige? Not for me!

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Retiree beige? Not for me!

Why is it that women over 60 are often associated with non-colors such as gray and beige? Is it because we are invisible to men anyway? In my experience, that is not true at all. At least, it cannot be generalized. This opinion may apply to many German representatives of the so-called stronger sex. In southern Europe, it is quite different. In my adopted home of Italy, I often receive compliments on my appearance and style. Attraente e sexy! And that includes from women who like my look. And it has nothing to do with mouse gray and pensioner beige. I love unconventional fashion and clothes that not everyone wears.. “Beige is like a mental illness” I recently read an online comment that said: “Beige is like a mental illness that you have to fight with your mind. Beige is dying while you’re still alive.” There’s some truth to that. Non-colors like this don’t flatter your complexion or your age. They are often described as timeless, classic, and versatile. But: “Beige and gray tend to make many women look pale, and that doesn’t change even at 70,” say Beate and Jutta Ilzhöfer, the two designers behind the fashion label Ana Alcazar, known for its colorful creations. And they’re right. Anyone who thinks that gray-beige is a safe bet when it comes to fashion and embodies timeless elegance is mistaken. “Unfortunately, the opposite is true: women dressed in these colors do stand out—usually in a negative way,” confirms stylist and personal shopper Sonja Grau. If you really want to wear these colors, you should definitely add accents with bold tones, for example in the form of accessories, or freshen up the neutral colors with tops and patterns. Let’s be colorful! “The late style icon Iris Apfel stood for bright colors and eye-catching style. This should inspire other older people to be a little daring,” says fashion expert Carl Tillessen. XXL glasses, fashionable jewelry, red lipstick. Iris Apfel didn’t care at all what others thought of her or whether they might even laugh at her. We should follow her example. Who says that over-the-knee boots, trendy fashion, and long hair are obsolete after a certain age? I’ve just grown my hair back out again, simply because I like it better than the boring, run-of-the-mill bob. There’s no expiration date on fashion and style, especially “if the woman has a youthful appearance and figure,” says Grau.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Spring/Summer make-up look by Artdeco

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Tested for you: Spring/Summer make-up look by Artdeco

Artdeco always chooses special places blessed with a particular richness of color as the protagonists for its make-up collections. This time, the title is “Whispers of the Silk Road – Samarkand Treasures.” Samarkand in Uzbekistan is one of the oldest cities in the world (founded around 700 BC), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021, and an important hub on the Silk Road where cultures and civilizations met. The city is particularly famous for its Timurid architecture, including the magnificent Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. Samarkand has a long history. Among others, it was conquered by Alexander the Great, destroyed by Genghis Khan, and made the capital by Tamerlane (or Timur, Timur Lenk). This famous 14th-century Turkic-Mongol conqueror was notorious for his brutal campaigns, but also known as a patron of the arts and sciences. Applying makeup step by step Artdeco’s new makeup collection draws inspiration from the magnificent colors of Samarkand’s opulent palaces and combines them with classic shades and high-quality textures. The result is a harmonious blend of cultural depth and timeless elegance. Here’s how to achieve the look. Preparing the complexion Ideally, you should start with a primer that moisturizes and immediately smooths out wrinkles and skin imperfections. The foundation is best applied with a brush to ensure the most natural-looking result. You can also apply the foundation only where it is really needed. Apply a small amount of concealer to the areas you want to correct and blend with a concealer brush. To set the makeup, I use Artdeco’s transparent Eye Brightening Powder around the eyes to fix the concealer in place. The powder’s wake-up effect makes the eye area look fresher and more even. To set the foundation, I use the transparent, light-reflecting No Color Setting Powder N°1, which visually refines the complexion. I prefer to apply it with a powder puff, but a large brush will also do the trick. Blush (24,95 Euro) instantly gives the face a fresh look. For this, I use Blush Couture Samarkand Treasures in a mirror case with a colorful Samarkand design on the lid. I apply the soft, lighter earth tone with a blush brush to the highest point of the cheekbone and gently blend the pigments toward the temple. Then I apply the more intense shade from the base of the ear and emphasize the cheekbone toward the corner of the mouth. Finally, I use the brush to achieve a soft blend of both shades.… weiterlesen

Retinol Versus Retinal—Which Works Better For The Skin?

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Retinol Versus Retinal—Which Works Better For The Skin?

Both active ingredients belong to the retinoid group and are forms of vitamin A. Both have been used in skin care for decades and are popular for their anti-aging effects. They are particularly effective in reducing the visible signs of aging, reducing wrinkles, and tightening the skin. But which should you choose: retinol or retinal? Retinol and retinal make the skin firmer and more elastic. Due to their small molecular size, they can easily penetrate the uppermost layer of skin (epidermis) and stimulate the cells to produce more collagen and elastin. In this way, retinoids help to reduce wrinkles and visually rejuvenate the skin. The collagen-stimulating effect was scientifically investigated as early as the 1990s, as documented in a meta-study from 2006. In addition to their firming properties, retinoids also have antioxidant power. By intercepting harmful free radicals in the cells, they protect against premature skin aging. They also have a mild exfoliating component that removes dead skin cells and accelerates the cell renewal process. Not only does the complexion take on a rosy appearance, but sebum production is also reduced and the skin barrier is strengthened. What is the difference between retinol and retinal? Both forms of vitamin A can improve skin condition when used regularly. They also have in common that they do not take effect immediately, but only after they have been converted into retinoic acid. This is the most active form of vitamin A. This is also where the difference between the two substances lies: retinal is converted directly into retinoic acid, while retinol requires two synthesis steps: it is first converted into retinal and then into retinoic acid. This means that the faster conversion process allows retinal to work faster and more effectively. Conclusion: retinal is the more active retinoid. A meta-study from 2022 provides scientific confirmation of this. It states that even a comparatively low concentration of 0.05 percent retinal is sufficient to visibly improve the skin. For retinol, concentrations between 0.25 and 0.3 percent are recommended. Although retinal is more potent, it is still well tolerated by the skin. Researchers say that retinal has a favorable efficacy-tolerance ratio even at higher concentrations. With retinol, on the other hand, redness, dry patches, and itching are more common, especially at the beginning of treatment. The higher the concentration of the active ingredient, the more likely these skin reactions are to occur. Start with low concentrations Although retinal is considered to be well tolerated, this does not mean that the skin cannot react to it with irritation.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: From Instagram – “Lymphatic Body Oil” by Ilumaa Lymphatic

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Tested for you: From Instagram – “Lymphatic Body Oil” by Ilumaa Lymphatic

The Lymphatic Body Oil was recommended to me several times on Instagram. This platform in particular is flooded with beauty products that promise miracles in terms of their effectiveness. That’s why I decided to order and test a few of them from time to time. This time, I chose the “Lymphatic Body Oil” from Ilumaa Lymphatic. It promises a lymph-stimulating effect “for visibly nourished, silky-soft skin and soothing care.” First, I checked the provider’s website for information about the ingredients. The Body Oil contains plant oils that are said to stimulate the lymphatic system, as well as regenerating active ingredients: Castor oil & juniper oil stimulate lymph flow, promote blood circulation, and support the natural detoxification process. Sesame oil & bisabolol have anti-inflammatory properties, soothe the skin, and strengthen the skin’s balance. Sweet almond oil & vitamin E provide intensive care, protect the skin barrier, and have an antioxidant effect. Luxurious texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue – ideal for daily body care. Waterless formula is highly concentrated and contains no preservatives – for maximum effectiveness and bioavailability. The PR text goes on to say: The Body Oil was specially developed for daily body care and gentle activation of the lymphatic system. The balanced composition of nourishing plant oils—including sesame, almond, castor, and olive—supports microcirculation, protects the skin barrier, and provides long-lasting moisture. How the lymphatic system works So far, so good. However, the statement “The lymphatic system does not work on its own” is not entirely correct. To understand this, you need to know a little about how this “sewage system” in the human body works. The lymphatic system is a separate vascular system that transports waste products and water from our tissues. The lymph vessels absorb what the cells no longer need and excrete it via our detoxification organs, the liver and kidneys. More than five liters of lymph or lymph fluid are produced in this way every day. Unlike our blood vessel system, the lymphatic system is not driven by a central pump. However, it has its own pacemakers. These are sections of lymph vessels known as “lymphatic hearts” or lymphangions. Their smooth muscles give them a kind of suction effect, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. As soon as there is “work” to be done, the lymph vessels open, absorb the fluid, and transport it away. The lymph vessel then relaxes again. Under normal stress, the “lymphatic hearts” suck lymph fluid out of the body up to ten times per minute.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Perfectly styled lips? My 2 looks!

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Tested for you: Perfectly styled lips? My 2 looks!

There are really only two looks that I like for my lips. My absolute favorite is a matte orange-red color. It’s kind of my trademark. If I feel like wearing nude, which doesn’t suit me as well, but sometimes I just have to, I use a liner together with a lip oil. Here are the two looks and how I apply them: Orange-red mouth with a matte finish For this, I use Locked Kiss Ink 24HR Lipcolour by MAC in the shade Gutsy. I always keep several of these in stock in my drawer so that I never run out. The intense color is highly opaque and really lasts all day long, so I have to remove it in the evening. The waterproof liquid texture features special Pigment Lock technology with double-coated, ultra-refined pigments. They coat the lips with a barely noticeable, flexible, and breathable veil. The formula is so lip-friendly that it doesn’t dry them out. That’s because it’s packed with nourishing ingredients such as passion fruit oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. No bleeding. No fraying. I don’t even need a touch-up during the day. But it’s important to apply it correctly: I apply the liquid lipstick to clean lips and wait a few minutes for the formula to dry. Applying it with the slanted, tapered applicator is so easy and precise that no lip liner is needed. Then I screw the airtight cap onto the pen until I hear a click. This is the only way to protect the formula and keep the liquid lipstick fresh for a long time. Cleanse your lips in the evening To remove Locked Kiss Ink 24HR Lipcolour, I use cleansing oil or eye makeup remover. I put 1–2 pumps of it in my palm and gently spread it over my lips. Remove with a cotton pad or rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry. Locked Kiss Ink 24HR Lipcolour by MAC, 4 ml, 37 euros
 Nude lips with a glossy finish First, I outline my lips, which I have of course cleaned of any cream or balm residue and patted dry. In the past, you always drew along the natural line, but today you can go slightly above it. For me, the easiest product for overlining is Lip Contour Stain by Huda Beauty. It’s actually an innovative combination of long-lasting lipstick and liner. It’s smudge-proof, kiss-proof, and transfer-proof, and lasts for 12 hours without bleeding.… weiterlesen

Dark Tourism: Exploring The Echoes Of Tragedies

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . No Comments on Dark Tourism: Exploring The Echoes Of Tragedies

When sites of historical tragedies become tourist attractions. Dark tourism, characterized by visits to places associated with tragedy, death, and suffering, has evolved significantly in the global travel industry. It intervenes in a complex web of historical contexts marked by lasting legacies of oppression and trauma such as slavery, incarceration, xenophobia, and racially motivated violence. The line between education and exploitation is often a fine one. Dark tourism often takes place in locations that appear harmless and primarily informative at first glance. These include museums and historical sites. However, due to their connection to traumatic events in the past, they can also evoke strong emotions in sensitive individuals.. When history becomes trauma Dark tourism sites are often deliberately developed to elicit strong emotional responses. Their power lies in engaging people through historical significance and the depth of human suffering they represent. Scholars emphasize the psychological impact on visitors, with concerns about secondary traumatization as they absorb the gravity of historical events. Local communities near these sites often have personal connections to the remembered events and are eager to preserve the community’s history. Despite complex emotions, dark tourism can offer cathartic benefits and help communities interpret conflict and come to terms with their history. The appeal of dark tourism Dark tourism fascinates travelers who want to explore the darker abysses of human history and is becoming an academic interest in terms of the motivation behind such travel decisions. It invites people to reflect on the past and its impact on the present and creates a complex interplay of emotional and cognitive experiences. Emotional and cognitive engagement Emotions play a central role in dark tourism, often confronting visitors with themes such as death and suffering. These experiences contribute to personal growth and well-being, with tourists driven by curiosity and a need to understand events. The emotional intensity of dark tourism often leads to reflections on life and death, creating a unique, transformative appeal. Beyond emotions, dark tourism appeals to those seeking cognitive engagement. Learning about tragic events and observing responses to disasters are essential components. The educational aspect offers insights into different cultural and historical narratives and enriches visitors’ understanding of the worl Ethical considerations This sector of tourism offers unique experiences, but it is not without ethical dilemmas, which often revolve around profiting from tragedies and the potential exploitation of sites. Questions arise about the display of human remains and the balance between historical accuracy and visitor experience.… weiterlesen