The power of the water lily
The beautiful and fragrant water lily was used in olden times as a medicinal plant; its roots used to treat many ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery while its waxy, water-repellant leaves and flowers, due to its ability to cool the surrounding water in which its grows, are used as cooling compress. Its antiseptic properties makes it perfect for use as an astringent.
Little wonder then that Shu Uemura, the Japanese makeup brand, developed a purifying/clarifying line that is its answer to combination/oily skin concerns. Called PuRenovate, it is Uemura’s ultimate solution to reduce the appearance of pores and counter excess shine, mattifying the skin’s texture to make it smoother and refined. Owing to the plant’s water retaining abilities, the line also acts as a hydrating and toning agent that gives keeps skin moisturized and refreshed. The line, consists of a Balancing Moisturizer, Intense Pore Perfecting Solution and a clarifying Lotion.
How to use: After cleansing face, apply clarifying lotion and follow up with pore perfecting solution in pearl-sized amount applied evenly on the entire face. Layer on the balancing moisturizer last. Can be applied over makeup to reduce the appearance of a shiny T-zone.
The Body Shop has its own line using water lily extracts as well. For those who enjoy fresh and floral fragrances, the Aqua Lily range consists of a perfume oil, eau de toilette (see pic), a body spray and body lotion.
Fragrance notes include a delicate and refreshing blend of fruits extracts (green apple, watermelon) and herbal extracts (dewy bamboo, tangerine, pink pepper, muguet, lily, rose, violet, reseda, cedarwood and musk). Perfect as a summer scent.
