Breakout Brand—Merlot Skin Care

Just when I thought wine couldn't get any better, I discovered the same grapes used in my favorite Merlot also have tremendous healing properties when used on skin. The same discovery led Wayne Beckley to make millions on his skin care line, Merlot Skin Care.

More than 10 years ago, while watching 60 Minutes, Beckley first learned about the "French Paradox," a report on the people of France who consumed diets rich in saturated fat, but who suffer virtually no heart disease. The report linked findings to the drinking of red wine.

Intrigued by this Paradox, Beckley chronicled over 70 studies each indicating a glass of red wine each day could be beneficial to one's health, warding off cancers and lowering cholesterol. Through the studies, he eventually discovered the grapes true power is their seeds. Grape seed antioxidants have been found to be 50 times more powerful than vitamin E and 25 times more powerful then vitamin C. So in 2001, Beckley launched Merlot Skin Care utilizing the power of the grape seed.

Merlot Skin Care products work to fight free radicals and protect skin against the signs of aging. Known for their high-quality formulations and tremendous value, all Merlot Skin Care products are made in the U.S. and are never tested on animals.

Because 2011 marks the 10-year anniversary for Merlot Skin Care, the brand is celebrating with new packaging and three new product launches: the 3-in-1 Blemish/Acne Treatment, Merlot Body Butter and Chin Up Neck Firming Cream.

My honest favorite happens to be Merlot's debut product from 10 years ago—Merlot Natural Grape Seed Moisturizer. Never have I used a moisturizer more cooling and immediately effective. This product will be ideal for the summer months. You can keep in your fridge for extra facial soothing and firming, particularly when you experience sunburn.

Whether ingesting Merlot or putting it on my skin, grapes and their seeds clearly have their benefits. Now Merlot not only has a permanent place in my wine cellar, but Merlot Skin Care now has a permanent place in my beauty line up—and may have a place in you beauty line up too.

Merlot Skin Care products are available at Walgreens, Ulta and www.merlotskincare.com.

Breakout Brand is contributed by HBA beauty blogger Mary Palmieri. Contact her with information about your brand at [email protected].

More in Skin Care