Why is skin slightly acidic? The skin’s surface has a naturally protective film called the acid mantle, made up of sebum (free fatty acids) mixed with lactic and amino acids from sweat. The acid mantle functions as an invisible barrier, keeping good stuff like lipids and moisture in, and bad stuff like pollution and bacteria out. If the acid mantle is disrupted – if the skin’s pH level is made too alkaline or too acidic – then skin can become prone to dehydration, accelerated aging, inflammation, breakouts and other conditions.

Protect the acid mantle. Many of us use soap and water to achieve an oil-free, “squeaky clean” feeling, but because most soaps are highly alkaline, they actually neutralize the skin’s acid pH, stripping away its natural defense systems. Therefore it is important to consider the pH level of the cleansers, moisturizers and other products we use on our skin – to avoid removing protective oils and disturbing the acid mantle.

Phelityl to the rescue. Erno Lazlo’s phelityl formulas feature a unique moisturizing complex with a pH nearly identical to that of the skin – to help preserve the acid mantle and maintain optimal skin function. Some of our devotees’ favorites include:

Phelityl Pre-Cleansing Oil and Phelityl Cleansing Bar – used together, they dissolve impurities without stripping the skin. Prefer a foaming cleanser? Phelityl Cleansing Gel, suitable for all skin types, gently cleanses without drying and nourishes the skin with rich plant oils, in one simple step.

Phelityl Day Lotion SPF 15 offers weightless protective moisture while maintaining the fatty acids essential for skin function. At night, Phelityl Night Cream seals in natural moisture to plump and refresh the skin.

Erno Laszlo’s original Active Phelityl Intensive Cream offers all-purpose, 24-hour moisturizing and protection for all skin types.

Mimi also happens to be an Erno Laszlo Devotee!  Since there is such great synergy between both brands, she has chosen The Institute for her the first ever Pop-up Shop located at 382 West Broadway in New York.   A curated selection of her pieces will be available to purchase there from March 11^th - 31^st.

Her 2013 Spring Collection will also be unveiled at The Institute at her Jewelry Fashion Show on March 14^th

Last week, Mimi was kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule for an interview.

EL: How did you approach designing your iconic Piece Collection?

MS: The Piece Collection was inspired by the shape of my window when I was a child. I was always curious; looking out to see what was going on. Growing up in the jewelry business, a family passion, I learned a lot from both of my parents who I respect tremendously. Each shape signifies an important window of time; we respect the past, we live in the present, but we look toward the future.

EL: Where do your ideas evolve from?

MS: My ideas are evolved from: travels, cultures that have touched me, where I am in my life and how I am feeling. My creation needs to be authentic and genuine for me to be inspired to design beautiful jewelry; to adorn the many amazing women out there. My works are the time capsules of my life.

EL: You are launching new colors in your spring collection. What was your inspiration?

MS: It’s a good thing my timing was spot on. We can’t afford to go wrong in the fashion and luxury business.  I chose blue and green because I love colors like the Mimi So blue. These two colors are calming and easy and make me think of green grass and blue skies. Perhaps I am still holding onto the time I was vacationing in Portofino one summer.  The ZoZo Collection, now unveiling at our Pop-Up at The Institute was inspired from there.

EL: What does beauty mean to you?

MS: Beauty is very important to me because it comes from within. All people have beauty within themselves; both men and women.

EL: What do you believe fine jewelry and skincare have in common?

MS: Fine Jewelry and skincare have many commonalities. One does a fair amount of research work in both industries before selecting the diamond of your choice or the proper skincare. When you lather your body with a luxurious cream you feel like silk; hydrated. When a piece of beautiful jewelry is draped on your body sparkling at every angle it makes you feel like you are glowing.

EL: What first drew you to Erno Laszlo? What are your favorite products?  

MS: I attended The Institute launch event and discovered the private treatments. They are a nice oasis getaway if you live in the city and want to disappear for a bit and get pampered with counseling on proper skincare. Some of my favorite products are: the eye cream, Transphuse Day Serum and Phormula 3-9 Balm which I lather on and my skin drinks up! My travels are very harsh on my skin, I have flights back to back that are 15 hours and then climates range from really cold to superhot and humid! My must have is the Luminous Intensive Hand Cream  for all my heavy luggage lifting!

EL: Do you have any at home skin care tips or tricks to share?

MS: My home regimen is to always wash my face in the morning with water and remove all makeup in the evening and rinse with water again. I like to commit to using at least 3 items such as an eye cream, serum and a moisturizer. I’m a softy for great hand creams!