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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: „Miracle Blur“ from Trinny London

Miracle Blur is a true miracle weapon for filling small wrinkles and lips. What woman wouldn’t want this when her skin shows small signs of fatigue. The cream visually smoothes the skin by filling and covering all imperfections as well as enlarged pores and minor acne scars. As it has a translucent formula, i.e. has no color of its own, it blends seamlessly with the skin’s natural tone. Also ideal for on the go. What does blur actually mean? A blur means something like “soft-focus effect”. These products work like a kind of Photoshop. In cosmetics, this refers to products, usually blur creams or blur primers, which visually smooth the skin and minimize imperfections such as pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Special ingredients or textures are used to “blur” the skin’s surface and create a flawless, natural finish. The finest, delicately covering powder particles or special polymers are used for optical smoothing. They reflect the light so that lines and wrinkles are less visible. The mattifying effect is achieved by substances that absorb excess sebum and create a shine-free complexion. How to use Miracle Blur Take a pea-sized amount of Miracle Blur and warm the product between your fingers or, if you prefer, on the back of your hand. You can apply the creamy texture before or after foundation. Before applying make-up, work it into the skin until the pores have been blurred and an even complexion has been created. Also suitable for the lip area to prevent color from settling in the lip lines. When applying over make-up, gently sweep Miracle Blur over the foundation to smooth out fine lines.„Miracle Blur” from Trinny London, 4 g, 34 Euro “Face finish” for mattifying Miracle Blur is not the only miracle weapon from the Trinny London collection. Face Finish is a mattifying balm that instantly creates a flawless complexion without the unsightly residue of powder. The balm mattifies and conceals fine lines and imperfections at the same time. What makes Face Finish different from Miracle Blur? Miracle Blur visually softens and conceals wrinkles, fine lines, large pores and acne scars, while Face Finish reduces oily shine and provides a matte finish. Pores and wrinkles are concealed thanks to transparent microspheres. Skin-improving silicones are included for the mattifying effect How to apply Face Finish Face Finish can be applied to the skin like a primer before using make-up. Alternatively, you can use it over make-up to give your complexion a mattifying finish.… weiterlesen

A Strokes Could Often Be Avoided

Stroke is a widespread disease that affects many people in Germany. Every day, more than 550 people suffer a stroke and one in five of those affected die in the first few weeks as a result. Many strokes could be avoided with appropriate prevention. A stroke changes a person’s life from one moment to the next – and that of their loved ones too! Even those who survive such an attack often have to contend with severe limitations such as paralysis on one side, speech or sensory disorders or a significant reduction in overall performance. One year after a stroke, 60 percent of those affected are still dependent on support, therapy, aids or care. Arteriosclerosis is the silent architect of stroke Dr. Josef Haus, neurologist in the orthopaedics department at the Marianowicz Center – Time for Health, is certain that the number of more than 63,000 people who die every year as a result of a stroke could be significantly reduced by early medical countermeasures. A medical analysis of the individual risk of arteriosclerosis, for example as part of a neurological check-up, could prevent a great deal of suffering. “Arteriosclerosis is the silent architect of stroke. It develops unnoticed and can cause considerable damage. Targeted preventive measures can better protect the blood vessels and intervene before they become blocked,” explains Dr. Josef Haus, MD. It is fatal that changes in the blood vessels are often noticed too late or not at all by those affected. Deposits in the blood vessels As a result, deposits in blood vessels can increase unnoticed, turning the lives of those affected into a silent dance on a powder keg. This is because there is a possibility that a deposit will come loose and block a blood vessel in the brain, or that an existing constriction will narrow further and eventually close completely. In the event of a stroke, this can lead to the irreversible death of nerve cells due to insufficient blood supply. Anyone who has ever tried to suck up a scoop of ice cream in a milkshake with a straw can imagine what a blocked artery does: nothing can get through! Dr. Haus explains that age is not the only factor influencing the elasticity of the arteries. There are also individual lifestyle risks such as smoking or obesity. If the family history shows that blood relatives have already had a stroke or heart attack, caution is also advised.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Active medical ingredient cosmetics from Von Lupin

Active medical ingredient cosmetics are not new territory for me. I have been using products from Doktor-Brands for years. What made me curious about the Von Lupin skincare system was the beauty code, which assigns the perfect skincare combination to every skin need. Because the credo of the two founders Susann Klein und Stephanie von Lupin, both experts in cosmetics and active ingredients respectively, is: “Every skin is as unique as a fingerprint.” Active ingredient cosmetics with a smart number system The two beauty experts have therefore developed a code that can be used to put together a personal care system. How does it work? Each product has a combination of numbers and letters and is marked with one of six colors. The numbers stand for the sequence of care steps in which the products are to be used, the letters mark the individual products within a care step. The colors in turn stand for the care category. This makes it easy to identify products that belong together. This not only makes the daily beauty routine easier, but also makes it easier to reorder products. At the heart of the active medical ingredient cosmetics is the deep-acting Basic Care, which can be individually enriched with various concentrates. The special feature of the two basic care products is their multi-layered liposomes, which help to channel active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin. At the same time, they increase the skin’s ability to absorb subsequent care products. You can choose from Basic Care Ceramid, which supports the skin barrier with liposomes and ceramides. The Basic High Active anti-ageing basic care contains micropeptides to support collagen and hyaluronic acid production. A total of eleven concentrates are available to combine with the basic care. With such an overabundance of active ingredient compositions and the countless possible combinations, it’s clear that users (the products are unisex) will struggle to find their way around on their own. There is a personal code for this active medical ingredient cosmetics . It is generated based on the individual skin type and condition. It is generated by one of the Von Lupin beauticians in the more than 401 institutes in Germany. The products are also available from the specialist beautician and via the associated online store. My beauty schedule My personal beauty code for these active medical ingredient cosmetics was also determined using a questionnaire. It asked about the condition of my skin, for example how my complexion looks immediately after cleansing.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Peeling for day and night

Peeling is part of every skincare routine, as nothing can cleanse the skin more deeply at home. This type of facial cleansing gently removes dead cells from the skin so that the complexion looks fresh and vital again. Peelings are now available for use during the day and also with an overnight effect. I have tried one of each of these deep cleansing products. Peeling for the day: „Tri Active Glow Peel“ from Royal Fern Skincare The skin-refining facial peel from Munich dermatologist Dr. Timm Golüke is based on a triple-action formula for maximum results. He says: ‘”I developed the Tri Active Glow Peel to provide a professional peeling effect at home.” It combines three types of exfoliation: chemical, enzymatic and mechanical. The chemical peel is based on a potent blend of 12 percent AHA and PHA. It penetrates deeply to loosen dead skin cells, refine the texture and promote cell regeneration. The enzymatic peeling with fermented radish root enzymes gently dissolves impurities and leaves the skin looking clear and refreshed. The third is a mechanical peeling. Using ultra-fine bamboo powder, it polishes the complexion and ensures an instantly silky-smooth finish. Peeling with triple power I use the scrub once or twice a week and apply the pleasantly creamy texture to my face, neck and décolleté, avoiding the eye area of course. After about three minutes, I start massaging in circular motions with damp hands, then rinse the scrub off thoroughly with lukewarm water. The acids in the “Tri Active Glow Peel” immediately make my skin look fresher and more even. With regular use, the glycolic acid helps to lighten dark spots and inhibits pigmentation. Tartaric acid, a natural AHA, also contributes to a brighter complexion and promotes cell regeneration. It also helps to balance the skin’s pH value and improves moisture retention. It also has antioxidant properties. Gluconolactones belong to the group of PHAs (polyhydroxy acids). Due to its molecular size, the acid can penetrate less deeply into the skin. Compared to other acids, it is gentler and therefore also suitable for sensitive skin to smooth the surface and remove dead cells. As acids are known to increase UV sensitivity, I make sure I spend less time in the sun. Sun protection is of course a must for me every day. „Tri Active Glow Peel“ von Royal Fern Skincare, 100ml , 95 Euro Peeling for the night: „63 Overnight Peeling Lotion“ from Maria Galland The overnight product is ideal for those who want to make less effort when cleansing their face.… weiterlesen

Natural Skincare Products – The Dirty Secret Of Clean Beauty

The demand for natural care products has increased in today’s environmentally conscious and health-oriented world, reflecting a broader societal shift towards sustainability and personal wellbeing. Consumers are increasingly opting for natural and organic skincare products to minimize exposure to synthetic chemicals. However, clean beauty is not always what it says on the tin. Natural skincare products are becoming increasingly popular. A survey by The Benchmarking Company found that 68% of consumers use some form of natural and organic product in their beauty routine. And they are demanding transparency on ingredients in skincare, wellness and nutrition. This is not just a passing trend, but a significant movement towards naturalism and transparency. However, the definition of “natural” varies widely between consumers and organizations, making consumer choice more complex. Psychological and social factors significantly influence consumer behavior as emotions, personal identity and social influences play crucial roles. Understanding these factors is essential for companies operating in the highly competitive wellness industry. The reality behind “natural” labels In the beauty industry, the term “natural” has become a popular but often misleading marketing tool. Despite its widespread use, the term “natural” is not precisely regulated, allowing companies to use the term without a standardized definition. This regulatory gap means that products labeled as natural may still contain synthetic chemicals that pose health risks. Synthetic fragrance components, for example, are sometimes indistinguishable from natural ones, further blurring the line between natural and synthetic. Natural ingredients are not inherently safe; for example, some natural substances such as poison ivy can be harmful. Products labeled as “natural” may still contain chemical additives that cause skin irritation or allergic reactions over time. The misconception that ‘natural’ is synonymous with non-toxic is widespread and often leads to consumer confusion and unintentional exposure to harmful substances. Health effects when choosing skincare products In the quest for beauty, consumers often overlook the potential health risks associated with conventional skincare products. The clean beauty movement is highlighting these concerns and urging consumers to be more critical of their personal care products. Harmful ingredients masked by scientific terminology can have a negative impact on skin health and overall well-being. Fragrances, for example, whether synthetic or natural, contain compounds that can irritate sensitive skin and lead to various skin problems. The self-regulated nature of the cosmetics industry allows for the use of synthetic ingredients that can pose significant health risks, including links to cancer and reproductive problems.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Eyebrow Power from Artdeco

Eyebrows are often referred to as the frame of the face. And rightly so. Because when shaped to suit the type, they emphasize the eyes and open up the gaze. Last but not least, they intensify the wearer’s expression and presence. Perfectly styled eyebrows can be a real power statement. The new “Power to brows & lashes” collection from Artdeco offers all the tools you need. Eyebrow trends But first to the trends. Brows are also subject to fashion trends because they play a decisive role in our appearance. In addition to the current trend of voluminous, defined eyebrows à la Cara Delevingne, thin eyebrows are also back as a tribute to the early 2000s. You can even see them “topless” on the catwalk from time to time. This means that the hairs are bleached to such an extent that they disappear completely. Very bold and in most cases not very suitable for everyday wear. Pay attention to the shape of your face When deciding on a brow styling, you should not ignore your individual face shape. How do you recognize it? It’s simple: stand in front of the mirror, take your hair out of your face and take a good look at yourself: A round face shape is best suited to wider eyebrows with an angled arch. This makes the face appear narrower. If the shape is more angular, the eyebrow shape should be fairly flat to achieve an optical shortening effect on the face. Rounded brows harmonize with a heart-shaped face, creating a soft, harmonious overall look. On an oval face, straight, defined brows with a slightly curved arch draw more attention to the eyes. As a general rule, the more prominent the facial features, the rounder the eyebrows. The softer the face, the more angular the eyebrows can be. Measure the proportions The next step is to adjust the proportions of the eyebrows to the desired shape. The best measuring tool for this is a brush or pencil. Position your “tool” so that one end touches the wing of the nose and the other the inner corner of the eye. This point indicates the beginning of the eyebrow. In the second step, position the brush or pencil so that it touches the wing of the nose with one end and the outer corner of the eye with the other. This point marks the end of the eyebrow. Finally, place the tool on the wing of the nose so that it connects with the pupil like a line.… weiterlesen

Courage Is The Beginning Of Everything

What does female leadership mean in a time that calls for change? If Stefanie Brings has her way: everything. As an executive coach, speaker and author of the book “Die Führungskraft der Zukunft” , she redefines leadership – not as a competition for numbers, but as a resonance space for impact, meaning and authenticity. Courage is needed. In a world in which the image of “good leadership” is slowly but surely changing, Brings hits a nerve. After all, leadership styles are still often characterized by male characteristics – assertiveness, control, performance. But what if leadership could also mean: listening, feeling, connecting? “When you have decided where you think action needs to be taken, have the courage to stand up and get involved.” – Eleanor Roosevelt The momentum of success – when internal leadership becomes external impact In her book, Stefanie Brings describes the so-called “success momentum” – a model that understands leadership as a dynamic cycle: from inner clarity to external impact. The starting point is personal values, visions and an inner attitude that follows meaning rather than pressure. Only on this basis can communication skills, decisiveness and leadership competence develop. The result is not just productivity, but magnetic attraction – to talent, to markets, to the future. Female leadership: strength beyond stereotypes Science confirms what Brings experiences in her practice: women lead differently – often more empathetic, more communicative, more transformational. Studies show that female managers tend to share responsibility, communicate on an equal footing and act more ethically. The result: more resilient teams, greater employee loyalty, more sustainable decisions. However, the path to leadership is often still a labyrinth – characterized by biased structures that offer little room for innovation. This is precisely why it is essential to make visible female role models who hav Profession and vocation – between vision and everyday life What makes Brings special is that she not only provides women with tools, but also strengthens their self-image. Many of her clients struggle with the question of whether intuition, emotionality and questions of meaning have a place in the business world. Her answer: they must. Because this is precisely where a new form of leadership begins, one that does not sacrifice performance, but anchors it – in people, not in the system. The momentum of success is more than a method – it is permission. For women to develop their very own leadership energy. And for companies to realign themselves: away from the need to control and towards cultural development, the creation of meaning and the development of potential.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: A flawless complexion with Anastasia Beverly Hills

A flawless complexion – every woman dreams of it. Hopeless with my skin, some will think. But that’s not true. With the right techniques and products, it’s really easy. I opted for the make-up line from Anastasia Beverly Hills for my “flawless complexion” test. She is best known for her eyebrow products, Her new matte blurring foundation with medium to full coverage is ideal even for skin types that sometimes look oily or greasy. A flawless complexion is achieved in three steps. Step 1: Foundation I use the “Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Matte Foundation” for this. As my complexion is prone to dry areas, I moisturize it sufficiently before applying the foundation. I take one or two pumps of the foundation and apply it from the center of the face outwards. I prefer to use a foundation brush for this, which I use in circular motions on the skin to achieve a seamless finish. If you need more coverage, build up the color by dabbing until the desired coverage is achieved. This moisturizing, velvety-matte foundation with hyaluronic acid lasts up to 12 hours. It is waterproof and conceals pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Thanks to Precision Blur Technology, its “blurring” finish acts like a soft focus. Bixa Orellana is the substance that helps to blur pores and imperfections. Phytoglycogen also ensures a youthful, radiant appearance. „Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Matte Foundation”, 1.18 Fl. Oz. | 35 ml, $46.00 Step 2: Brightening I use a concealer such as “Magic Touch” by Anastasia Beverly Hills to brighten and conceal dark circles, blemishes or discoloration. Ideally, the shade should be one or two shades lighter than the foundation. It is available in 25 colors, so everyone can find their perfect shade. To brighten dark circles, I choose a shade with a peach undertone. If you want to conceal skin imperfections, choose a color that comes closest to your natural complexion. A shade with a golden undertone is suitable for neutralizing redness. I apply the concealer with the applicator in two to three dots directly under the eyes. I also use a brush to blend it in and then tap in the creamy texture with my fingertips and a little pressure. The Magic Touch Concealer moisturizes the delicate eye area and provides a smooth, crease-free and comfortable feel without settling into fine lines. The amino acid-coated pigments ensure immediate adhesion and flexible blendability. Plant-based glycerine is included for sufficient moisture.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Body care “Ritual Douceur” by Payot

Body care is coming into focus right now, when legs are once again exposed to the (sun)light. Neglect from the winter is now becoming apparent. The skin is pale, the tissue less toned and firm. Payot offers a body care trio consisting of serum, cream and oil to counteract this. My legs need the complete package, so I tried all three. Moisturizing serum “Sérum Lacté Réhydratant” is a serum enriched with hyaluronic acid with a milky texture. It is therefore important to shake the product well before use to ensure even distribution and perfect diffusion of the formula. In addition to hyaluronic acid, which hydrates, plumps and smoothes the skin, it contains acacia extract. This forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, protecting it from external aggressors and preventing the loss of moisture over a period of 12 hours. The body serum can be used on its own or after your usual body care routine in the morning. It can also be sprayed on as express care at any time of day. It settles on the skin in a light musky mist and immediately provides a relaxing moment of well-being. “Sérum Lacté Réhydratant” by Payot, 100 ml, 59 euros Rejuvenating body cream Does the tissue lack firmness? Or do irregularities appear on the skin? “Baume Corps Lissant Jeunesse” is based on a high proportion of anti-ageing active ingredients that have a proven rejuvenating and firming effect. This includes Bakuchiol, an alternative to retinol of natural origin. It is suitable for sensitive skin and is effective against wrinkles, dark spots and inflammation. Quartz microcrystals rebalance energies and improve the skin’s appearance. This balm with a melting texture and musky notes is applied in the morning and/or evening. The areas that lack firmness should be treated particularly intensively. The formula exfoliates and smoothes the skin to eliminate imperfections. “Baume Corps Lissant Jeunesse” by Payot, 200ml, 55 euros Toning massage oil The toning “Huile Corps Tonifiante” is enriched with various plant extracts such as rosemary, mint and geranium. It improves the elasticity of the skin and reduces stretch marks and cellulite. This is why the product is also recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The aromatic fragrance is remarkably pleasant and immediately makes you feel completely relaxed. The product has been specially developed for massage. Therefore, apply to the body in the morning and/or evening and massage in with circular upward movements, concentrating particularly on the critical areas.… weiterlesen

The Vicious Cycle Of Tourism

Tourism has two sides. One good and one bad. On the positive side, there are the personal experiences you gain from traveling and the economic benefits for the places you visit. However, travel can also diminish its own appeal when the influx of visitors erodes the cultural and environmental appeal that originally attracted you. In this article, we shed light on this paradox and show possible solutions to the “vicious cycle” that are already being implemented in some countries. Tourism provides opportunities for cultural exchange, economic benefits and environmental awareness and attracts travelers to a wide variety of destinations. Its economic impact is significant, as spending on accommodation, food and entertainment boosts local economies and job creation. Sustainable travelling also emphasizes environmentally friendly travel and community empowerment. Ethical tourism promotes social justice and cultural preservation by ensuring that local communities benefit and their heritage is protected. Cultural tourism allows travelers to engage with local traditions and create a shared experience. However, the rapid growth of tourism also brings with it negative impacts such as environmental degradation and cultural loss. Environmental and cultural impacts The general willingness to travel contributes around 8 percent of global carbon emissions and puts pressure on ecosystems and resources. Uncontrolled growth leads to habitat destruction and pollution. Culturally, mass tourism carries the risk of diluting authentic local traditions, leading to social tensions and resource conflicts. Overtourism, where visitor numbers overwhelm destinations, poses a serious challenge. Iconic places such as Venice and Dubrovnik are facing overcrowding and cultural damage, necessitating visitor management measures. The hotel industry is also struggling with limited stakeholder cooperation and government support. Case studies: lessons and innovations Venice’s 35 million annual tourists strain infrastructure and threaten cultural integrity. The influx of visitors to Machu Picchu in Peru poses a challenge to conservation efforts and requires controlled access. The media presence of Dubrovnik in southern Croatia on the Adriatic Sea also leads to overcrowding and requires careful planning. In contrast, New Orleans relies on regenerative tourism that prioritizes cultural and ecological preservation, while Chile’s model of sustainable travel concepts integrates environmentally friendly practices and local participation. Travelling is an economic driver, but it also comes at a cost. Overtourism puts a strain on resources and reduces the attractiveness of destinations. Sustainable concepts seeks a balance by managing the number of tourists and preserving cultural and environmental values. Some regions are implementing regulations to curb excessive visitor numbers and protect long-term viability.… weiterlesen