Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Give and Get: LORAC Box Office Hit Full Face Palette (review)

I’m in shock. In about 70 minutes it will be December. How on earth did that happen? Wasn’t I just finishing up my Halloween costume?

Of course the extremely cool thing about December (besides the weather...ha!) is the gorgeous, fabulous array of holiday collections and awesome pallettes. Check out this one from LORAC and ULTA.

Box Office Hit Full Face Palette

Blurb: An ULTA exclusive! Critics are buzzing about LORAC's Box Office Hit! Create backstage beauty and take center stage with an attention-getting full face collection for eyes, cheeks, and lips. A $210 value. This luxurious Cabernet Croc Palette contains everything you need to create soft, natural looks for day-and sexy, smoky party looks for night: 12 eye shadows, 2 eyeliners, 1 blush, 1 bronzer and 8 lip colors. You are sure to be a Box Office Hit with LORAC!

This ULTA exclusive is part of LORAC’s Holiday 2010 Collection. It’s extremely giftable (and keepable). The packaging is excellent, practical and absolutely lovely. The croc case opens to reveal a really nice collection of colors. I especially loved the shadows (of course) – 12 shades that range from fresh and subtle to dark and smoky. The two pencil liners were very good, and I also loved the lip colors (housed under a genius see-through flap). The bronzer and the pink blush complete the palette very nicely.

What I also loved about this palette is that it snaps securely shut - keeping everything housed in an elegant, and extremely portable little case. It fits easily in most bags and would be perfect for holiday travel (no gels or liquids to get the TSA all agitated).

This palette is only avaible at Ulta. Visit the website if you want to know more. You may also want to check out the Special Offers section and take advantage of free shipping on all orders of $25 or more (use code: 512213). You can also visit the LORAC website to see more of the Holiday offerings.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Monday, November 29, 2010

New Week, New Stuff: Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lift Age-Correcting Eye Creme (review)

Well it looks like the weekend is actually over. I spent a hectic Black Friday scoring deals at the mall; and I just don’t have it in me to participate in Cyber Monday. I’m going to let the other bloggers tell you about all the amazing online bargains; and I’m just going to stick to my review. But it’s a fabulous review. Cuz it’s Estée Lauder.

Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lift Age-Correcting Eye Creme

Blurb: Now experience our most dramatic age-correcting results ever around your eyes. The look is strikingly younger and more lifted. Enviably radiant. Astonishingly beautiful and full of life. It's a singular achievement in visible age correction: an ultra-luxurious, all-powerful creme with our ultimate repair technologies and intense hydrators. Lifting, firming, perfecting your skin's appearance like never before. Our multi-patented Life Re-Newing Molecules™ combine proprietary, rare and precious extracts plus some of the most scientifically advanced technology. All brilliantly intertwined to help repair, recharge, and restore skin's energized, radiant appearance.

This is an absolutely gorgeous eye cream! It feels velvety soft, absorbs quickly and moisturizes extremely well throughout the day. Now that the air outside is cold and dry, and the air inside is warm and dry; I really notice the difference. This cream doesn’t feel heavy at all; but at the end of the day, my eye area still feels and looks hydrated and supple. Love this!

Visit the website to learn about the entire Re-Nutriv line. And while you’re there, be sure to take a nice long look at this year’s stunning Glamour is Golden Makeup Set. ($55 with any fragrance purchase - worth over $340.00).

Estée Lauder is also sold in fine department stores.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Friday, November 26, 2010

Hair Care (aka “Black”) Friday: TRESemmé Naturals Lightweight Mousse and Finishing Spray (review)

Well my travels and holiday “stuff” are finally done. At least for now. I had an awesome Thanksgiving and I hope you all did too.

Today I’m gearing up for a day at…the mall. Yes, I’m actually going to brave the black Friday crowds, lines, food courts and parking lots. Mainly because I’m on a pretty strict budget this year, so I need to take advantage of as many amazing deals as I can.

So…in the spirit of value and quality. Today’s hair care Friday is all about TRESemmé.

Lightweight Mousse

Blurb: TRESemmé's new lightweight mousse is formulated with organic Sweet Orange extract, to help you get long-lasting hold with natural benefits for healthier, stronger hair.

Finishing Spray

Blurb: You don’t have to sacrifice beautiful style when choosing a natural hair care line. Formulated with USDA certified organic ingredients: aloe vera, sweet orange, and avocado. These products with naturally derived polymers will leave your hair healthier, shinier, stronger, and looking naturally gorgeous. Our unique lightweight spray formula, with organic extracts, keeps your style in place all day.

Two words: Great stuff.

Really. I used the Finishing Spray to tame and smooth my hair after a blowout. It left my hair smooth and shiny without any stiffness; and everything stayed in place in the dry air without any flyaways or frizz. The Mousse was also excellent. It really is lightweight. I airdried my hair, and got some gorgeous tousled waves! A little dab also worked very well as a curl definer. My hair had volume, but wasn’t stiff or sticky.

I was really impressed with both of these products and now I’m curious about the other items in their “Naturals” line. I like that they feature organic ingredients; and I love that they work. Oh…and they smell wonderful.

Visit the website and check out the Awards and Offers section. There’s also a really fun Backstage page. TRESemmé can be found in grocery stores, drug stores and places like Drugstore.com and Sally Beauty.

Off to the mall…wish me luck!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving!

I know I’ve been MIA during the last week and a half. I’d hoped to post on Monday; but there was just too much traveling (and holiday preparing). Things got pretty backed up.

So instead of frantically trying to write a review, I’m just going to wish you all a happy, healthy, loving and safe Thanksgiving. I’m feeling very grateful for the people in my life and the wonderful blessings that the year has brought. I hope each of you gets at least one moment to experience gratitude for someone or something that has enriched or awakened your life.

Peace and see you on Friday!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Gone Fishing (not really)

I'm just gone vacationing. I'm going to be travelling all week visiting family and friends in upstate New York (before everything gets socked in for the winter).


I'll be back on Monday with some fun pre-Thanksgiving beauty, but until then have a wonderful week and weekend!


Monday, November 15, 2010

Monday Magnificence: Lancôme Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner (another rave review)

It’s mighty close to midnight (and therefore almost Tuesday), so I’m going to get right to the review part. Today’s (tonight’s) super fabulous eye-tem is from Lancôme.

Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner

Blurb: Emphasize your eyes with this easy-to-handle, liquid pen featuring a uniquely shaped foam tip that lets you line, shape and define eyes to create any look you like. Rich, deep, luminous pigments offer the most intense, dramatic color. Glides on smoothly without scratching, tugging or skipping and lasts all day.

The short version: I love love love love this liner! Why didn’t I try it earlier?

Long version: Well I didn’t try it earlier because I have waaaay too many liners already. But I was scouring the mall for a specific shade (a deep burgundy/magenta) and the saleslady at the Lancôme counter suggested I try their Artliner in “Plum Glimmer.” I was worried it would be too purple, but I gave it a try. I was right – it was too purple for what I was looking for. But the brush and formula were amazing!

So I bought one. And I love it. And now I want them all.

It’s a liquid liner with a “pen” applicator. However, this pen is incredibly soft and flexible – which means you get pen precision with the smooth velvety lines of a brush. A cat’s eye is a piece of cake, and so is a tiny thin line right up against the lash line. The pigment is highly saturated and lasts all day. Another A++ (that's two in a row)!

Check out all the colors on the website. Be sure to browse the What's New section, and maybe even take advantage of their special offer (4-piece deluxe sample collection and free shipping with any $45 purchase with code: ANOV). You can also find Lancôme at nice department stores and Sephora.

(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Friday, November 12, 2010

Hair Care Friday: NEW Samy Fat Foam Hair Color (rave review)

Wow…it’s finally Friday. It seems like last weekend was about a million years ago; and I am soooo happy that a brand new weekend has arrived. Speaking of brand new…I’m even happier to feature today’s new exceptional hair care product. From Samy.

Fat Foam Hair Color

Blurb: Even Coverage From Roots to Ends! No-mistake hand application provides even distribution, especially to those hard-to-reach areas such as the back of the head. No dry spots, it’s so simple. 100% Gray Coverage! Long lasting, rich color that covers gray completely with less application time. Conditions & Shines! Formulated with soy protein to leave your hair looking smooth, healthy, shiny and youthful. Less Mess! Non-drip whipped foam means the color wraps every strand, stays in place, and won’t drip.

Hair color is a very personal thing. I color my hair at home; and it takes a lot to get me to stray from my “usual.” But I just may have found a new “usual.” This product is that good.

From start to finish, Fat Foam worked better than any at-home color I’ve ever used. I poured color powder and a liquid into a large, plastic cup with a domed lid. I closed the lid and shook for about a minute, and the mixture turned into a foam. Then I used my (gloved) hands to apply the foam to my hair. It was amazingly easy. The foam turns to liquid on contact, and I completely covered every single bit of hair in just under 8 minutes. I’ve never gotten it done that quickly.

The processing time was 40 minutes (I have dark hair with lots of gray), so I used a shower cap to cover everything and prevent any drips. The package contains packets of both shampoo and conditioner; so I rinsed then washed and conditioned. The shampoo made excellent lather and rinsed easily. The conditioner was rich; and after I rinsed, my hair was soft and tangle-free.

The results were thoroughly fabulous. I used “Medium Reddish Brown” (a lovely, deep auburn). My hair was soft and shiny, the color was even, and the grey coverage was superior to anything I’ve ever tried. I was completely wowed. It’s been over a week since I colored, and there has been almost no fading – which is amazing with reds. The color isn’t identical to the one I’ve been mixing myself for the past few years; but it’s pretty close. And I’m so impressed with the formula that I’m thinking of switching to Samy for good. A++!

You can check out the other colors on the website – and even order directly (there’s free shipping with any purchase over $50). There’s also a where to buy page if you want to browse the colors in person.

Happy Friday Everyone!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Your Thursday Face: Urban Decay De-Slick in a Tube (review)

Yikes. Is it really only Thursday? There’s something about a time change week that just throws everything off kilter. I was wondering why I’d been feeling “off” all week (and why it seemed like everyone else was too). Then I remembered…time change. All of our biological clocks are being fooled around with, and they’re not happy about it. Luckily the week is almost over and soon everything will feel “normal” again.

In the meantime, there are facial products to be featured. Let’s make today about Urban Decay.

De-Slick in a Tube Mattifying Gel

Blurb: It's time to take control of your oil and put your matte face forward. Our lightweight gel performs anywhere, anytime: dab it on all day for touch-ups without ruining your perfectly applied makeup. It's completely color-neutral, so it works great on naked skin, under foundation, or over makeup. Formulated to help tighten pores for a youthful, shine-free finish. De-Slick even works to keep skin matte under hot studio lights and in the muggiest of heat (so you know this addicting formula provides fierce absorbing action.)

I got a deluxe sample of this a while back, and gave it a try last week. Very impressive! So impressive that I’m planning to go out and get a whole tube. It works. I love that.



I used a tiny bit (really…you don’t need much) and got instant mattification. My skin stayed oil-free throughout the morning and most of the afternoon. And when I got a little oiliness around 5pm; I dabbed a bit more on, and the shine disappeared. No blotting, no reapplying makeup or anything. Awesome.

Visit the website for more details. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the gift sets and the new items. Urban Decay is also sold at Sephora, Ulta, and beauty.com.

For any of you needing an “oasis” of calm while your biological clocks are scrambling to figure out what time it is; here’s a fine musical moment from one of my favorite movies…





(ftc disclosure: received as sample with purchase)

Thursday Things: Phyto Friends and Family Sale Starts on Monday!

Yay! Start making your hair care must-have list – Phyto’s annual F&F sale is November 15-17. You’ll receive 30%-40% off Phyto products when you visit http://sale.phyto-usa.com/.


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Thursday Things: Giving Back - Amazing Gift Sets from FACE Stockholm and Same Sky

This is one of the most beautiful gift ideas I’ve seen this season. FACE Stockholm has partnered with Same Sky to offer these limited edition sets. Truly wonderful…

A Gift That GIVES from FACE Stockholm and Same Sky

Just in time for the holiday season, FACE Stockholm and Same Sky present a limited edition holiday gift set featuring signature hand blown glass-beaded bracelets made by women artisans in Rwanda and beauty products.

Available Saturday, November 6, 2010 at exclusively FACE Stockholm.

Same Sky is a trade-not-aid jewelry initiative aimed at empowering women worldwide and exemplifies the growing ethical shopping trend. Same Sky's glass-beaded bracelets are hand-crocheted by HIV-positive women artisans who survived the Rwandan genocide of 1994, and are working to overcome the traumatic aftereffects of rape and unimaginable violence. Same Sky's women artisans are taught a marketable skill and earn a wage that is 15-times higher than found in Sub-Saharan Africa – giving them a hand-up instead of a handout. 100% of all net-profits from the sale of Same Sky bracelets go directly to training and hiring more women artisans and expanding into other regions.

FACE Stockholm-Same Sky Holiday Gift Sets can be purchased from November 6, 2010 at all FACE Stockholm stores in New York, online at
www.facestockholm.com or by calling (888) 334-FACE.

Each FACE Stockholm-Same Sky Holiday Gift Set sold helps lift one more life out of poverty and is truly a gift that gives back.

Same Sky bracelets are made of hand blown glass beads, (165-180, depending on size). Each bracelet is crocheted by hand on a complimentary colored, non-stretch cord. Sizes include Small (fits wrists 6.0" – 7.0") and Medium (fits wrists 7.0" - 8.0").
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Thursday Things: Holiday 2010 Limited Edition Silver Travel Set from Killian Perfumes

Here’s an amazing travel set from an amazing fragrance company…Killian

Holiday 2010 Limited Edition
Silver travel set

After the success of last year gold limited edition, KILIAN brings us yet another reason to take our fragrance with us everywhere we go with a limited edition travel spray…this time in stunning silver!

One side has KILIAN’s signature Achilles shield motif, crafted with black enamel in an artisanal manner, creating an antique look and feel. The other side has an ultra glossy silver finish, reminding us of the modernity of everything KILIAN touches.

Going back to KILIAN’s brand philosophy of being “eco‐luxe”, the silver travel spray is refillable, so it’s meant to be used for a lifetime. It is sold as a set with four .25oz vials of Kilian Parfum, for a total of 1oz of fragrance. This limited edition set will be available in five scents from KILIAN’s “L’Oeuvre Noire” collection:

LOVE ~ don’t be shy
LOVE AND TEARS ~ surrender
LIASONS DANGEREUSES ~ typical me
STRAIGHT TO HEAVEN ~ white cristal
BACK TO BLACK ~ aphrodisiac

It will also be available in one scent from KILIAN’s “Arabian Nights” collection, ROSE OUD.

This precious addition to the Kilian collection will only be available during the Holiday 2010 season.
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Thursday Things: GoodSkin Labs

Check out all of the great skin care suggestions for the holiday season from GoodSkin Labs…

Save Yourself From Holiday Stress with GoodSkin Labs

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Thursday Things: Silhouette Eyewear’s “What to Eye Wear”

Check it out! Makeup artist, Joanna Schlip, has joined up with Silhouette Eyewear for a series of video makeovers called “What to Eye Wear.” Watch the transformations…


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Thursday Things: Kat Burki Now Has Jewelry!

Really gorgeous jewelry! Ooooh….

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Thursday Things: Get Mistletoe-Ready with Cake Beauty Gloss Trio

Now we’re talking! Check out the new kiss-inducing holiday gloss trio from Cake Beauty…

Sealed With A Holiday Kiss
Introducing NEW limited edition merry kiss-mass™ lip gloss trio

KISS in the holiday season with a delightfully packaged trio of delectably flavored lip gloss. Finding the perfect pink for your pout is easy as Cake. Each merry kiss-mass™ lip gloss will nourish and hydrate lips giving you a hint of color and loads of shine. Blended with natural emollients and infused with antioxidants this gloss will leave your lips smooth, sparkling and merry-kissable all season long. Add a little or a lot of shine to your kisser. Indulge.

Each lip gloss is infused with natural emollients, rosemary oil and pomegranate extract.

merry kiss-mass™ Pink Snowflake - sheer pink loaded with pink sparkle
merry kiss-mass™ Sugar Plum creamy, high shine plum pink
merry kiss-mass™ Mistletoe Berry - sheer bright berry with gold glimmer

Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, triclosan, gmo

The merry kiss-mass™ lip gloss trio retails for $22. Each merry kiss-mass™ lip gloss is also sold individually ($10 each).

Cake Beauty is an indulgent bath, body and hair care line with multi-purpose product offerings that are infused with natural, raw ingredients, the cornerstone of Cake's success. All Cake products are 100% paraben free formulas that are 90-95% naturally based.

Available: Cakebeauty.com & Urbanoutfitters.com
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Thursday Things: Strange Invisible Perfumes is Now at Anthropologie

Another place to find the fabulousness that is SIP. Inhale…

Strange Invisible Perfumes Launches at Anthropologie

Strange Invisible Perfumes is thrilled to announce their launch at Anthropologie!
The addition of the line is part of Anthropologie’s endeavor to expand their beauty offerings, their aim being to offer shoppers the absolute best in beauty, skincare and fragrance.

Strange Invisible Perfumes is a completely botanical fragrance house serving the reality, not the dream, of precious ingredients and luxury craftsmanship. Perfumer, Alexandra Balahoutis skillfully exacts the chemistry between botanical essences and compelling narratives. Her collection of strange, invisible perfumes has ended the battle of natural versus luxurious.

Anthropologie is thrilled to offer customers a certified organic collection of eaux de parfum, culled from a library of botanical, biodynamic and hydro-distilled ingredients. “There aren’t too many organic perfumes in the market and it’s even harder to find organic perfumes as exquisitely blended and sophisticated as Strange Invisible Perfumes,” says Melissa Green, Anthropologie Buyer for Beauty, Garden and Home Fragrance. “I love the brand’s ‘no synthetics’ approach to perfumery and how Alexandra hydro-distills the essences herself.”

“I am delighted that our fragrances have been embraced by a platform as savvy and discerning as Anthropologie. Their vision of beauty and fragrance is quite inspired. They truly understand the craft of perfumery and that is a very rare and refreshing thing.”
- Alexandra Balahoutis, Perfumer

About Anthropologie: Anthropologie’s beauty offering was founded as a source for the latest in fragrance, bath and body, lip balms and other novelty items. Our buyers are constantly searching for niche, hard-to-find lines handcrafted by small, independent perfumers, chemists, soap and candle makers located around the world, from Brooklyn to Australia.

We also cultivate exclusive partnerships with well-known brands that complement our aesthetic. Our fragrance offerings in particular have resonated with our customers, featuring the scents of boutique perfumers such as Royal Apothic and DS & Durga to high-end cult classics like Annick Goutal and Susanne Lang.

About Strange Invisible Perfumes: Strange Invisible Perfumes blend certified organic, wildcrafted, biodynamic, and hydro-distilled essences with genuine inspiration and compelling narratives. Each perfume is a layered composition crafted with pure botanical essences and 100% certified organic, beverage-grade grape alcohol. All are designed, hand-blended, and bottled within the botanical fragrance house in Venice, California. An in-house master distiller heads the laboratory, customizing distillation projects locally and all over the world. By producing essences and sourcing the rest directly from trustworthy distillers, Strange Invisible Perfumes relies on firsthand knowledge, not paperwork, in matters of quality control.
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Thursday Things: Lierac Paris To The Rescue for Winter Skin

Check out Lierac Paris’ top 5 ideas for saving Winter skin…

Lierac Paris’ Top 5 Winter Skin Saviors
5 Steps to Revitalized and Hydrated Winter Skin

In the midst of all the glitz and glam of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget to give your skin a little – though much needed – extra attention. Lierac Paris recommends integrating these five signature skincare products into your daily routine to keep skin hydrated and rejuvenated all winter-long.

Step 1: Prep and smooth

Because the cold strips the skin of all its moisture and causes uneven tone and dryness, a gentle exfoliating cream is needed to smooth skin texture and prepare the skin for hydration. Micro-Abrasion Exfoliating Smoothing Cream ($38) contains a 25% concentration of aluminum oxide crystals for in-depth exfoliation and to stimulate micro-circulation and cell regeneration, while 3% urea improves hydration and comfort.

Step 2: Hydrate and protect

It’s not only important to rehydrate the skin, but also protect it from the harsh cold and wind. Hydra-Chrono Extreme Balm ($50) is a luxurious balm enriched with 5% protective glycerin and a 10% moisturizing complex including apricot and safflower oil to provide a specific response to the needs of dehydrated skin. The Aqua-Pump® technology works to help restore the skin deep-down and reactivate its natural hydration process. After just one hour, hydration is clinically proven to increase by 47%, and by an additional 39% after 3 hours.*

* Clinical study conducted on female subjects aged from 26 to 58 years (average 39 years)

Step 3: Don’t forget the eyes!

It is also important to hydrate the eye contour area, especially during the winter when environmental stresses weaken this already delicate area. Diopticrème Anti-Wrinkle Eye Contour Cream ($34) is an intense wrinkle repair cream that utilizes the synergistic action of botanical extracts to promote cell renewal, increasing overall skin firmness and elasticity. The alchemilla-ivy-horsetail plant synergy restores skin elasticity while calendula calms inflammation, hydrates and stimulates healing for a 93% improvement in crow’s feet wrinkles.*

* Clinical study conducted on women aged 42 to 64 years who used this product morning and night for 6 weeks.

Step 4: Rehydrate all over

Just because the rest of the body is bundled in layers of clothing doesn’t mean it isn’t affected too! The cold seeps through and depletes the skin of its nutritive and moisturizing elements, leaving it rough, dull and flaky. Specially formulated for ultra-dry, cracked skin and for the treatment of keratosis pilaris, Hydrofilia Super Body Cream ($36) contains a potent moisturizing and lipid-replenishing complex for immediate comfort and reinforced hydration. Enriched with lactic acid and urea, this luxurious cream helps diminish flakiness and skin tightness, reducing scaly and flaky skin by 98%.* Hypoallergenic.

* Self-assessment by female volunteers aged between 21 and 60 with very dry and Keratotic skin.

Step 5: Regenerate and correct damage

Nighttime is the best time to give your skin a break and let it recover from the day’s stresses. Cohérence Age-Defense Firming Night Cream ($64) lifts, firms and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles while you sleep. Cohérence Night is formulated with patented ASC III Collagen Accelerating Vectors and magnesium to stimulate the natural synthesis of Collagen III which helps hydrate the skin by reducing natural moisture loss. Skin is lifted and firmed, and skin elasticity increases by 35%*. The complexion appears repaired, renewed and perfectly hydrated.

* Clinical study conducted on women aged 45-55 who applied the ASC III ingredient to their skin for a period of 27 days.

Lierac Paris products are available at European Skincare Centers in select CVS/pharmacy and Duane Reade locations or online at
www.lierac-usa.com, www.beauty.com and www.skinstore.com. 877-5LIERAC
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Thursday Things: Holiday Fragrances from American Beauty and Daisy Fuentes

Check out the great offerings from two of Kohl’s excellent beauty lines…

Happy Holidays from American Beauty and Daisy Fuentes Fragrance!

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Thursday Things: Easy Beauty from Schick and Skintimate

I am in total favor of streamlining the basics during the holiday season. Check out some easy ways to breeze through part of your beauty routine…

Low Maintenance Beauty with Schick and Skintimate

Are you a low maintenance beauty belle who wants a no-frills beauty routine? With Schick and Skintimate, you can have a silky smooth shave that’ll help you get out of the door and start your day in no time!

You don’t even need shaving cream with the Schick Intuition Plus razor—just water! It’s the first and only razor that lathers, shaves and moisturizes in one easy step leaving your skin noticeably softer. It has 4 blades, surrounded by a skin moisturizing solid enriched with shea butter, aloe and Vitamin E to replenish your skin’s natural moisture. The Schick Intuition Plus is the ultimate beauty accessory for multi-tasking women on-the-go: getting ready in the morning, touching up after the gym, or prepping for a date! Average retail price is $9.29.

If you’re devoted to the traditional razor and shaving cream pairing, Schick Quattro for Women Disposable razors and Skintimate Signature Scents are just as great for a fast and easy shave. The Schick Quattro for Women Disposable razors have four-blades with two conditioning strips on each cartridge. Simply use them and toss when done! Available in two varieties—Ultra Smooth and Sensitive—for an average retail price of $7.39 for a pack of three.
Skintimate® Signature Scents™ Moisturizing Shave Gels come in six enticing fragrances that have 11 moisturizers, vitamins and an antioxidant to replenish your skin’s natural moisture. Each foams into a rich lather that protects against nicks and cuts, while leaving skin smooth and moisturized. A little bit goes a long way—just a small amount creates enough lather for your entire shave. Average retail price is $2.79.
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Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Mid-Week Manicure: Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish Fall 2010 Collection (review)

Today was rough. This morning was frustrating and complicated; and by the end of the day I was pretty wound up. So...out comes the manicure kit.

One of the things I do to relieve stress is polish my nails. Taking the time to remove old polish and carefully apply a new color is very soothing. And waiting for my nails to dry forces me to sit still and relax. And afterwards…pretty hands. Today’s pretty hands are from Sally Hansen.

Complete Salon Manicure

Blurb: All 5 Steps of a Manicure in 1 Bottle. Salon Manicure Made Simple! All 5 Steps of a Salon Manicure in 1 Bottle: Base Coat, Strengthener, Growth Treatment, Color, Top Coat. With Patented Vita-Care Technology for advanced wear, more shine, and nourishing care. 42 Salon-Inspired Shades. Toluene, DBP, and Formaldehyde free. With Vita-Care Technology for advanced wear, more shine, and nourishing care.

This is easily one of the best formulas I’ve come across. It goes on smoothly, is opaque, covers perfectly in 2 coats, and has a hard glossy finish. I followed directions, skipped the base and top coats, and was really impressed at how well it performed. It wore extremely well (no nicks or chips for 3 days, and no serious chipping for 5 days). It came off easily (even the dark colors), and didn’t stain at all. The packaging is also fabulous. The bottle shape fits well in the hand, the brush is excellent, and the rubber band around the cap makes for an easy, non-slip grip. This is superior quality at an unbeatable price.

And the colors in this collection are spectacular! I have 9 of them, and I’m having a blast trying them all out. I wore “Perfect Match” (a deep, sophisticated red) to a weekend getaway, I layered “Golden Ticket” (gold glitter) over “Sequin Scandal” (deep green/black with gold flecks) on Halloween, and I’ve been wearing “Trouble Maker” (a rich, smoky purple) most of the week. Tonight I swiped on “Starry Starry Flight” (an icy silver glitter); and it’s gorgeous, glamorous and super flattering.

Check out the website to browse the other colors, and look at the where to buy section for a listing of grocery stores and drugstores where Sally Hansen is sold.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Clearing Things Up: Clearasil Ultra Overnight Lotion (review)

I’m spending this week getting a lot of things cleared up so that I have an uncluttered path to the holidays. Lots of paperwork, de-cluttering and general tidying up are taking place.

And in the spirit of making things all clear and easy, I’m going to feature a fine new product from Clearasil.

NEW Ultra Overnight Lotion

Blurb: Clinically tested to help visibly reduce redness and pimple size overnight and give visibly clearer skin. Reduces redness, pimple size overnight. Prevents the formation of new pimples. This quick absorbing all over face lotion has a clinically tested salicylic acid based formula that gets to work instantly. It works continuously through the night when your skin is actively in the process of cell regeneration and renewal to help visibly reduce redness and size of existing pimples overnight. It also helps prevent the formation of new pimples.

This a great combination of lotion and acne treatment/prevention. I tried it during a mini-breakout and was very impressed with the results. It went on smoothly, absorbed quickly, and felt very nice on my skin. In the morning, my skin felt balanced. What mattered most was its effect on my mini-breakout. I used a spot treatment where needed; but my jawline had a lot of small bumps that were red and threatening to turn into big bumps. After two nights of using the lotion, the redness was completely gone and the little bumps had almost disappeared. I am definitely keeping this on hand from now on!

The website has info on all of the new Overnight products. You can also check out the customized skin care section and sign up for special offers. Clearasil is sold in grocery stores, drug stores and sites like drugstore.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Color of Monday: The Jewelry Box Palette from Tarte (review)

Since today was cold and rainy; I thought a giant splash of color might liven things up. Here’s some beautiful beauty sunshine from Tarte (by way of Sephora).

Holiday 2010: The Jewelry Box

Blurb: An exclusive, limited-edition palette packed with 32 new eyeshadows, eight lip glosses, a mineral bronzer, a new shimmering powder, five deluxe long-wearing eyeliners, and a detachable necklace. This versatile palette is a veritable treasure trove packed with new and limited-edition products and shades along with such Tarte bestsellers as a full-size of Park Avenue Princess Mineral Powder Bronzer. As an added bonus, this festive jewelry box comes with its own "off the chain" gilded trinket, guaranteed to be your go-to accessory for holiday parties and year-round.

This set is exclusive to Sephora, and I was ogling it forever before taking one home. It’s one of the best sets of the season.

To begin with, it’s an amazing value. It contains 32 full-sized shadows (16 each of shimmering and matte), 8 glosses, a full-sized mineral bronzer, a highlighting powder, 5 liners and cute gold and black necklace. They’re all housed in a gorgeous, well made, quilted gold box.

I loved the lip and cheek products. The glosses are pretty, and the Park Avenue Princess Bronzer is outstanding. I also thought the eyeliners were excellent. But the real stars of this palette are the shadows.

These are wonderful, excellent-quality Tarte shadows in 32 fabulous chic colors. This is an eye shadow lover’s dream! There are soft pastels, lovely neutrals, metalics, deep smoky shades, and intense jewel tones. The variety is dizzying. Not only are they fabulous shadows, but they also do double duty as liners when applied with a wet brush. The possibilities are endless. This is more of a collection than a palette. It’s truly extraordinary!

This can only be purchased at Sephora; but I suggest visiting the Tarte website if you get a chance and reading up on their skinvigorating ingredients and learning a bit more about their commitment to Green Beauty.

And check out this video (all about the Jewelry Box)…



(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Hair Care Friday (on Sunday…ooops): shu shu sleek from Shu Uemura Art of Hair (review)

Ooops. It seems like Hair Care Friday is happening on Sunday this week. (Sorry.) I wish I could blame it on the time change; but that only just happened a few hours ago. Instead of blogging, I spent a lot of time having buckets of girl talk. I also did laundry and we watched post-girl-talk “Talladega Nights.” I am beginning to believe that girl talk and Will Farrell movies are quite possibly the most effective cures for just about anything.

Of course, none of this has anything to do with hair care. What does have to with hair care are the three fabulous items I’ve been trying out. From shu uemura.

shu shu sleek Collection for Coarse and Unruly Hair

Blurb: Debuted in exclusive, high-end salons, this at-home ritual is a collection of smoothing formulas for coarse and unruly hair, enriched with black cumin oil, to replicate the aspect and touch of precious japanese shusu on hair. Provides deep nourishment and disciplines the hair fiber with a fluid touch.

Smoothing Shampoo

Smoothing Conditioner

Smoothing Treatment

This collection is awesome. I love dedicated collections, and this one works extremely well. Both the shampoo and the conditioner are rich and creamy; yet there’s no heaviness or oiliness. Together, they thoroughly cleaned, de-tangled and conditioned. The first time I used them; I let my hair air dry just to see what would happen; and I was very impressed with how well-behaved my curly hair was. It was smooth, soft and there were no fly-aways.

Of course, these products are for taming hair and making it sleek. So the next time, I used the shampoo and conditioner, then finished with the smoothing treatment. I LOVED this Treatment. It has the same richness (and wonderful fragrance) as the other two products; and after I rinsed it out my hair was like silk. When I blew it out, my hair was shiny, smooth and obedient. I also tried it as a leave-in (when I wore my hair back); and it performed fabulously.

You can read more about this collection (and some of the amazing ingredients) on the website. I also suggest visiting the lovely Ceremonies page, and browsing the salon locator.

And just in case you're in need of a boost after your weekend; here’s some silliness from Talladega Nights. (I wanted to post the dinner scene, but it’s a little too much for Sunday morning).

Enjoy today and the week ahead!






(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Your Thursday Face: FACE Stockholm Mineral Powder Foundation with SPF15 (review)

This Thursday night, I’m being Little Miss Multitasker. While testing out one product (stellar so far btw); I’m writing about another one.

And the one I happen to be writing about is from one of my favorite companies: FACE Stockholm.

Mineral Powder Foundation (SPF15)

Blurb: Get your glow on anytime, anywhere with our easy to use, on-the-go, round mirror compact! Our innovative, Mineral Foundation Powder with SPF 15 provides a natural, non-irritating alternative that is hypoallergenic, paraben and fragrance free and includes the added benefits of antioxidant and ultraviolet protection with Dermat Complex to significantly reduce shine. This silky, soft mineral-based foundation glides on effortlessly, to create a healthy, glowing, flawless complexion without any mess. Formulated to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines while creating a natural matte finish, it does double duty as a translucent powder - or a buildable coverage foundation. The lightweight, breathable powder easily adjusts from polished sheer to rich, more opaque coverage with the use of a brush or sponge. Enhanced with Vitamins A, C & E to condition and Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide for natural, chemical-free sun protection, it is appropriate for all skin types.

I’ve had a beauty crush on this brand ever since I started visiting their store at the Time Warner Center in Manhattan. Just browsing all of the little treats is a lovely pampering experience. And their products are soooooo nice.

This foundation is no exception. I couldn't wait to try it and I was not disappointed. I used it every which way and was thrilled every time. As a translucent finishing powder, it's wonderful. I used a brush and got a lovely, sheer finish that set my makeup perfectly.

I also tried it as a foundation and loved the results. I got great coverage with a sponge...and even better application and coverage with a puff (I happened to have one laying around). When I used it as a foundation, I got sheer/medium coverage. I also got excellent (really excellent!) pore minimization, and my skin tone looked almost perfectly even. The finish is matte, but still leaves a bit of natural-looking glow. I got a very polished, yet fresh look (and SPF to boot)!

Check out the website. There are 7 shades to choose from (not to mention the stunning array of glosses, lipsticks, liners, treatments, shadows and...yum...eyeliners). The Magic section is mighty cool too. If you can, though, try to visit one of their stores and enjoy the fabulousness in person.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Getting Over the Hump: Spotless Acne Spot Treatment from Sprunk-Jansen (review)

Since today is “hump” day, I though I’d feature something to make a certain type of “hump” go away faster. You know…the kind that shows up on your skin from time to time. Here to help with the humps (and bumps) is something wonderful from Sprunk-Jansen.

Spotless Acne Spot Treatment

Blurb: Clears your complexion. Spotless cream clears up blemishes gently. And by keeping your pores clean and clear, it helps to prevent new blemishes forming. Fast but gentle - we've combined three traditional blemish reducing herbs - Soap Wort, Inula Leaves and Lemon. This effective combination eases redness, reduces acne bacteria and oil production without drying or irritating. Spotless not only soothes instantly and absorbs impurities in the skin, it also clears away blemishes throughout the day and night.

Sprunk-Jansen’s philosophy is to pair the effectiveness of herbal remedies with modern advances. They’re developing a range of herbal products designed to work in harmony with modern medicine – giving us the best of both worlds. Luckily, their vision of healthier herbal-based alternatives has resulted in a stellar spot treatment. I love this stuff!

All of my heavy-duty Halloween stress (and super heavy genie makeup) resulted in a very unsightly surprise on Sunday afternoon. I woke up from a nap and found myself with a mini-breakout. So out came the Spotless. First I put some on and rubbed it in. Then I dabbed an extra bit on the terrible bump and left it on until the next morning.

Monday morning I was thrilled! It had shrunk almost entirely, and there was no redness or peeling. I used the treatment again on Monday night; and by Tuesday morning all signs of my little “situation” were gone. Fabulous!

Take a look at their gorgeous website. You can shop online or use the retail locator if you want to browse in person. You can also sign up to receive the newsletter. Sprunk-Jansen products are available through HealthSuperstore.com, Amazon and at The Vitamin Shoppe.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Gold from Down Under: Dunache Gold Mineral Exfoliating Mask from rare earth minerals (review)

Happy Tuesday everyone! I had a crazy day, and I’m looking forward to a nice quiet evening (yay)! But before I step away from the computer; there is blogging to do. About something mighty cool. From rare earth minerals.

Dunache Gold - Mineral Exfoliating Mask

Blurb: Deeply Cleanses, Tones, Detoxifies and Exfoliates your skin. Our unique Mineral Exfoliating Mask is an Essential once a week treatment for your Skin. Consisting of Kaolinite, Exceptionally high concentrations of Potassium and Sodium, Natural Silica Microspheres and Trace Elements. The Natural Filtration by the regions Mineral Springs, over millions of years, is the single unique factor that makes our Mineral Clay amazingly pure and high in Mineral Concentration. This all in one product is suitable for both Facials and Body Treatments and is sold in its natural powder form. Safe and Effective for all Skin types. Smoothes Fine Lines. Tightens and Firms Pores. Draws out Toxins deep within the Skin. Highly recommended for those with Acne and Problem Skin.

This is an awesome company that has dedicated themselves to providing natural products (100% Australian made and owned) that are ph neutral, effective, made with pure water and free of chemical agents or re-agents. Nice. They also make wonderful products. Extra nice.

The mask comes in powder form. I mixed it with water to form a paste, worked it onto my skin and let it dry (about 10 minutes). Afterwards I rubbed the dry mask into my skin a little bit and rinsed. It was kind of fun, and the mask felt very pleasant while it was on.

I only tried a small sample, so I don’t know what the long term effects are; but I can say that in the short term my skin looked and felt fabulous! It was soft, smooth, balanced and incredibly clean. My pores looked smaller and my face had a lovely glow. I tried it in the evening before bed, and found myself wishing I had used it in the morning or before going out – my skin looked that good afterwards. Extra super bonus nice!

Rare Earth Minerals products are only available through their website. Visit the site, read about the various minerals in their products, and check out the testimonials.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Monday, November 1, 2010

Monday Word of Mouth: PCA Skin Peptide Lip Therapy (review)

My horoscope this week suggested that instead of trying to fix others; I should “fix, refine and recalibrate” my own self. Isn’t that great advice? (Answer: yes, it is.) Did I heed that advice? (Answer: no, I most certainly did not.)

I thought I was doing a pretty good job of “staying in my own yard”…until I found myself apologizing for interrupting and jumping to conclusions (instead of just listening). Then I also remembered how I spent a great deal of my weekend fussing and worrying about whether or not other people were having a good time. Oh yeah…I also gave out a whole lot of advice that no one asked for. Sheesh.

I still have a few days left in the week; but so far I’ve earned a D+ for horoscope.

Luckily, my loved ones love me back (and are hopefully only mildly annoyed with me). And more importantly; I got to spend the weekend having a great time with people I care deeply about. It was an amazing weekend (complete with sparkly, home-made genie costume). And eventually, I’ll learn to think before I speak.

So in honor of me learning to button my lip a little more often; I’m featuring a fine lip product today. From PCA Skin.

Peptide Lip Therapy

Blurb: This scientifically advanced formula helps plump lips while improving overall lip health and appearance. It enhances barrier protection to shield lips from damaging free radicals, helps rebuild the collagen matrix for increased strength and resiliency, and boosts moisture retention and accumulation for maximum hydration. Apply to lips twice daily to protect against environmental damage, improve hydration and dramatically minimize lip lines. With daily use, Peptide Lip Therapy will reduce peeling and promote smoother, fuller lips.

Now that the dry, chilly weather is here, lips get drier a whole lot more easily. I’m a big fan of anything that relieves dryness; and I’m an even bigger fan of something that protects my lips from being tackled in the first place.

This item just won Prevention Magazine's Best Treatment Award for best lip treatment. I’m not surprised at all. It’s wonderful. I used it twice a day, and my lips were noticeably softer after a week. It also feels heavenly, has a nice minty scent, and really kept my lips soothed, smooth and protected. My lipstick also went on more easily, and the peppermint gave a bit of plumping. Awesome!

You can read more about it (and about the award) on the website. You can also check out some of the other Advanced Treatment products. And make sure to visit the awesome Skin Education section. PCA's products and treatments are available through select clinical practices throughout the United States and in 60 countries worldwide. (I also found it at Dermstore and Beauty Bridge.)

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)