Grape Escape

As the lazy days of summer come to an end, too much sun and too much ice cream have wreaked havoc on our skin, not to mention our waistlines. So, if the idea of eating a diet of grapes to cleanse and rid your skin of harmful toxins sounds great to you, then consider taking a trip to Provence where the age- old tradition is still a natural therapy practiced today. A more budget-friendly solution can be found in the newest line of grape body care products from the beauty geniuses at L’Occitane.

Infused with organic grape juice from the Domaine des Tuiles Bleus in Provence, the juice is pressed from black grapes free of pesticides, insecticides, and chemical fertilizers. The health and beauty benefits of grapes are no secret and have long been known. High in mineral content and organic acids, they promote a balancing effect on the body. Replenishing vitamins, the grapes benefit both nerve and muscle performance and protect the cardiovascular system. Grape- seed oil is rich in vitamin E and nourishes skin, as red vine leaf extract stimulates drainage.

L’Occitane has created a five-step beauty ritual beginning with the Crushed Grape Polish that uses grape seed and walnut shell particles to massage and exfoliate skin. Next up is the Grape Warming Body Wrap, which detoxifies and stimulates drainage with cypress oil, mud, and grape-seed oil. Once the polish is combined with water, a self-heating reaction warms skin and promotes microcirculation.

For cleansing, there is the Grape Shower Oil that not only smells divine, but is gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skin. Step 4 includes Grape Anti-Water Retention Gel, reduces the amount of excess water stored in tissue and eliminates toxins. Active red vine leaf and horse chestnut stimulate drainage and silicium energizes and firms skin. Perfect for frequent travelers, it reduces puffiness and water retention.

I am completely obsessed with the last step and the Grape Beauty Milk after only one try. The combination of rich shea butter and grape-seed oil was an aromatic treat and the lotion contained tiny pearlized particles to reflect light for luminosity. It left me not only feeling healthy, but with a wonderful radiant glow. I truly felt ready to show off my sexy skin all the way into fall.

L’Occitane’s Grape Body Line will be available in September at L’Occitane boutiques and usa.loccitane.com.