skincare basics
People come into the store all the time and are often overwhelmed by the selection. They want to purchase a few products, but they don’t want to buy everything or waste their money. Sometimes there are people who already have a lot of products, but do not necessarily have the right products. And sometimes, they are simply looking to make the switch from drugstore brands and don’t know where to start.
Shopping for beauty products is like starting a wardrobe. Several years ago I asked a good friend of mine to help me with my closet. I have always loved fashion and clothing, but I would just buy whatever I liked without any thought as to how it all worked together. I had great blouses that didn’t work with my pants or skirts, dresses that didn’t look right with any of my shoes, and on and on. I needed a plan, and a foundation of basics that my entire wardrobe could be based on.
This is also true for skincare and cosmetics. A good skincare regimen requires proper cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and sun protection. Of course the particular products will vary depending on the person (much like the little black dress and jeans will differ from person to person). Then of course, you can add in a clay mask or an antioxidant serum the same way you would add on a blazer and necklace. Generally speaking, a good foundation should certainly precede the purchase of a teal metallic eye shadow.
If you own a bunch of products and you still don’t seem to be happy with the results, then we would love for you to bring them into the store. We can look at what you have, and suggest a regime for using them. Sometimes you just have to know what works together. Other times, you need to use less. As Coco Chanel used to say, “Get dressed and then take one thing off.”
If on the other hand, you are just starting to put the basics together, we can also help with that. We can direct you to the products that are just right for your skin type, your skincare, and cosmetic objectives. It isn’t about buying a lot; it’s about buying smart. I love a silver sequin top as much as the next girl, but I am so happy I have my basic black skirt to wear it with.
- About the boutique
Located in historic Old Town Alexandria, for more than 17 years Bellacara has been Northern Virginia's preeminent boutique for high end cosmetic, skincare and haircare products. At Bellacara you will find premiere beauty products that have been carefully edited by the store’s owner, Angela Sitilides, who personally tests all the products sold in store. The boutique carries only the best product lines – Kiehl’s, Jouer, Dr. Dennis Gross, Christophe Robin, Moroccan Oil, Bumble & Bumble, Fresh, Molton Brown, Skinceuticals, Smashbox, Stila, Mario Badescu, Clarins, Dermalogica, Kevyn Aucoin, Kai, Child, St. Tropez, Smith and Cult, and many more.
1000 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.299.9652
