Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...and those of us holding the mascara wand.

After two decades of covering the beauty industry, I've come to learn what makes it so alluring. Finding the perfect shade of makeup to match your skin tone, adding a swipe of eyeliner to give your tired eyes a lift, discovering an innovative new product line, or indulging in a totally luxurious spa treatment. My experiences have been documented in magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide. I've tested newly formulated products in the lab, explored hair removal options, shopped for lipstick, added shine to my hair and succumbed to massage marathons--all in the name of beauty. I've written press releases, hosted makeover events and co-authored a Do-It-Yourself Beauty book (Alloy). On this blog, I write about products and services that I come across every day as well as those that have been provided by publicists or the companies that make them. Either way, I write what I think. I hope to share some of my insights--and bring you the latest, greatest beauty news right here. Join me in the quest to find all things pretty.


Wednesday, July 14, 2010

look like the balm


Need a touch of color but can't get to the beach? Smooth on Balm Shelter Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 18 ($25). It improves tone and texture so your skin looks smooth. Plus, it's tinted for an added dose of color and has spf 18 to protect you from the sun's harmful rays. I wore it yesterday and it really helped minimize fine lines--you know, the ones you really want to hide! As far as the tint goes, the challenge is in finding a shade to match your skin tone. It comes in light, lightweight and medium. I tried light/medium which seemed at little too light at first but blended in perfectly. A definite must-have for your summer makeup bag. See more at
www.thebalm.com.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

tell thymes


Thymes wants to hear from you! For a limited time only, tell Thymes what you think about their Kimono Rose Collection and receive a complimentary 2oz Kimono Rose Body Lotion! This deal is good while supplies last or until July 14th. Check the company's Facebook page for details on how to receive your free body lotion.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Thymes/95464368860?ref=search&v=wall

Monday, July 12, 2010

spa at home


I love getting spa treatments...but I also love feeling like I've just been to a spa. Aside from walking out the door feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, I love the way I smell! All those intoxicating scents mingle in the air and on my skin, keeping me calm as I head home. The Vanda Orchid Body Balm ($60) from June Jacobs Spa Collection is one of my favorite spa scents--thanks to the delicate bouquet of orchid extract it embodies in its luxurious formula. And while it smells heavenly, it also really works to moisturize my skin. Shea butter with nourishing oils of squalane, jojoba and sunflower seed soften, protect and replenish lost moisture, a blend of white, red and green tea extracts combined with goji berry, pomegranate and grapeseed extracts help to neutralize free radicals, protect the skin from environmental toxins and combat the visible signs of premature aging. Truthfully, though, I don't have to know how the formula is concocted. All I know is that it leaves my skin soft and smooth, adding hydration where I need it most. A must-have for summer, get this and other amazing June Jacobs products at
www.junejacobs.com.