Stella McCartney and skinCARE

CARE by Stella McCartney, inspired by her personal philosophies, is a line of luxury skincare made with 100% certified, organic active ingredients. While many products in the marketplace throw the word "organic" around like a hot tamale, CARE by Stella McCartney is formulated under the rigorous standards of ECOCERT - an international organic certification mark.

CARE by Stella McCartney's nine products (two cleansers, one toner, three elixirs and two moisturizers) contain NO petrochemicals, silicones, chemical preservatives, endangered plant species and genetically-modified or animal-derived ingredients.

Both cleansers remove makeup and impurities. The Purifying Milk Cleanser, geared for normal to dry or sensitive skin, also soothes and comforts your skin. The Purifying Foaming Cleanser is better for those with combination or normal to oily skin.

The Toning Floral Water, meant to be used between cleansing and moisturizing, will tone, soothe and assist your moisturizer.

The three elixirs, think of these as serums, are designed to meet skin specific needs and compliment the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Lotion/Cream. The Nourishing Elixir helps to firm and revitalize your skin. The Radiance & Youth Elixir stimulates and energizes lackluster skin. The Soothing & Calming Elixir gently soothes and comforts skin that needs a little TLC.

I tried all three elixirs and the texture is different for each. The Nourishing Elixir has the consistency of a lightweight face oil, the Radiance Elixir is a quick drying gel and the Soothing & Calming Elixir is a lightweight lotion.

Both facial moisturizers hydrate and protect your skin. You're supposed to choose either fluid or cream depending on what texture you prefer. I tried the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Cream; it's a lighter weight cream, not thick and heavy at all.

There are couple of things to consider if you're thinking of purchasing any of the CARE by Stella McCartney products. Since CARE by Stella McCartney is made with organic raw materials that are not refined or chemically modified; no two batches will be the same. When you go to replenish an item, the new one may have a variation in color or aroma level. And if you have known skin allergies, pay close attention to the ingredient list. All essential oils (there's quite a few) are listed on the product label so you can avoid any ingredients that cause you irritation.

Best way to try the line? Pick up the Discovery Set. You get a 5ml trial size of each of the three elixirs and the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Cream. CARE by Stella McCartney is available at select Sephora stores and sephora.com.