Buy the River: Summer skin-care products available at Annie-Em's

Winter always gets the bad rap for beating up on our skin, but actually, summer does its fair share as well. The sun's intense rays can cause premature wrinkles and, more seriously, cancers. In addition, high humidity can increase the skin's oil production, resulting in aggravation, acne and heat bumps. It is just as important to shop wisely for your skin as it is for your body. With the many options available from well-known brands and newcomers on the scene, shopping for creams and skin elixirs can even be fun.

Photo courtesy of Tokyo Milk

One store in Cape Girardeau where you can find specialty products in skin care is Annie-Em's. It is the go-to for picking up unique items that also boast high quality to match. I asked Emilie, owner of Annie-Em's, what new skincare products she has in the store this summer. She said, "I just picked up a new line called Tokyo Milk. It's a lovely line of bath and body products. The packaging is gorgeous."

Tokyo Milk is a sensory experience with edgy yet classic designs and intoxicating scents handcrafted to evoke emotion and immediate response. Tokyo Milk blends crushed essences like jasmine and vanilla to make luxe hand creams and perfumes, though that is not all they have. Emilie let me know that "We do carry their perfumes, shea butter hand cremes, lip balms and greeting cards."

Tokyo Milk

The creams are heavy and supple to provide extra moisture on those hot summer days ,and protection from freezing air-conditioned climates that can dry out the skin. The design of each product's packaging is striking enough to draw attention to the displays, but at the same time, Tokyo Milk fits right into the elegant style of Annie-Em's. With names like "Femme Fatale" and "Fate and Fortune," this line makes great gift items for a loved one or for yourself! Emilie has a shop for everything and everyone, and the service is spectacular. Stop in!

Remember, before you get on that 10-mile nature walk or go sunbathe on the deck, follow these tips:

1. Keep cool by taking tepid-temperature baths and showers.

2. Wear a cream or sunscreen with at least SPF 15.

3. Cover up bare skin with a hat, long sleeves or pants.

I thank Emilie from Annie-Em's for giving us an exclusive on what's new in her store and in designer skincare offerings in Cape. Annie-Em's is at 38 N. Main St. in Cape Girardeau.

Sheila McKinley is an independent fashion consultant working exclusively with luxury women's golf wear line Ladyb New York. After living in New York City for the better of 10 years, she has come back home to Missouri to do one of the things she does best: talk fashion. Check out her By the River blog at semissourian.com/flourish.