From steroids and laser treatments to Accutane, Lita Cunningham, like many of us, could not stop the “vicious cycle” of excess oil, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation. “I really wanted to learn why– whether it was five dollars or 500 dollars– nothing was really working,” she tells ESSENCE. “I was trying to find products that were potent yet gentle to treat temperamental skin types.” Because of this market gap, Cunningham launched LALAIS yesterday.
Exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman and lalais.com, LALAIS is the first luxury skincare and wellness brand geared towards oily and combination skin types specifically. “Bergdorf Goodman partnered with us because we’re creating a new category,” Cunningham explains of the rare opportunity. The launch is kicking off with 4 core products: The Perfecting Serum, Retinol Renewal, Skin Perfecting Complex supplements, and a Blotting Compact.
Cunningham opted for these items, instead of launching a full skin care regimen, because she wanted to start off with more targeted, harder-to-find solutions for this skin type. Additionally, as she explains, “you don’t need 10 products to have beautiful skin,” she says. “I wanted each product to be able to stand on its own.” As for when to use these two bespoke, much-needed serums? Nighttime is best. “I think your nighttime routine is the most important in really treating and addressing your concerns.”
Key ingredients like their proprietary Oil Control Complex (OCC3)™, in the The Perfecting Serum, works with potent peptides to reveal the radiant skin hiding under oil. The Retinol Renewal uses the same complex, but enriched with vitamin C and anti-aging ingredients to rejuvenate your complexion and balance your skin. Her attention to ingredient details stems from her mother’s battle with breast cancer. During this time, they took measures to clear out their refrigerator and only purchase clean foods. “This same approach is applied to the products I create.”
Meanwhile, the Blotting Compact allows for instant oil control, not just at night, but throughout the day. The compact can easily be slipped into your bag for a quick blot without affecting your makeup. The ultra-hygienic compact is also touchless, so you can combat your oiliness without transferring bacteria to your skin. To tie everything together are the oil-targeting daily supplements– The Skin Perfecting Complex. Enriched with antioxidants, you can take two daily to balance and add vitality to your skin.
For Cunningham, “it’s been a dream to have this sort of recognition from Bergdorf Goodman as their exclusive partner this month.” And even after this big win, Cunningham is excited for what’s to come. “We’d like to expand because, as I’ve traveled the world, people have asked me, ‘what do you do for your skin?’” she says. “I think there’s a huge opportunity for the brand to grow, but it starts at home.”
