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.


Friday, October 23, 2009

condition for a cure: Gatsby Salon

When it comes to raising money for breast cancer, every penny counts. It's great to hear that with so much national coverage, local businesses aren't afraid to get in on the action too. Gatsby Salon in East Green Brook, New Jersey, is one of them. On Saturday, October 24th Gatsby Salon will donate 25% of all conditioning treatments to the Susan G. Komen North Jersey Affiliate, helping to raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research programs. “At our salon, we have all been affected by breast cancer. Whether it be a loved one, a client or someone that they know, each of our stylists could tell you a story about how Breast Cancer has made an impact on their lives,” says Gayle Giacomo, owner of Gatsby Salon. “That is why it was very important for us to help the cause and, as stylists, what better way to become a part of the fight while getting our clients involved than utilizing our popular conditioning treatment as a way to raise money.” As an additional incentive for employees to get involved in the fight against breast cancer, Gatsby Salon staff are able to participate in “Denim Day” on Saturday, October 24th in which they donate $5 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for the chance to wear denim jeans to work. The 3,500 sq. ft. space offers hair cutting and coloring, nails treatments, full body waxing, threading, facials and makeup applications. It includes 16 cutting stations, a coloring suite, a retail makeup boutique, three exquisite treatment rooms, hand treatment stations and a foot treatment relaxation room that features the Sanijet pipeless pedicure system which provides the ultimate sanitary and sterilized experience. To make your appointment and contribute to the cause, call 732.752.4247 or go to www.gatsbysalon.com for more info.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

beauty for a cure: Jurlique


I love finding products that not only work but make you feel good too. I've always loved Jurlique. The Purely Age Defying Day Cream with SPF 15 was once a staple in my beauty routine. The Citrus Hand Cream has a rich, nourishing texture and blends into skin to leave it feeling super-smooth. And the Citrus Purifying Mist--another must-have--comes in an adorable, mini, square-based bottle and offers a spritz of clarifying mist that refreshes throughout the day. Plus, the scent reminds me of a childhood favorite--Love's Baby Soft Lemon (that's because it has the tangerine, mandarin and lemon in it!) The best part: Now you can get a whole collection of Jurlique products at a specially discounted price and contribute to Breast Cancer research and awareness at the same time.

In conjunction with Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (FTBC), a program of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Jurlique is joining the fight against breast cancer, raising awareness and funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Jurlique will offer an exclusive Fashion Targets Summer Fridays skincare set online at www.jurlique.com. The set includes: · Jurlique Citrus Purifying Mist · Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30 · Jurlique Citrus Silk Finishing Powder · Jurlique Citrus Hand Cream · Jurlique Purely Age Defying Day Cream, SPF 15 *Total Retail: $185. FTBC price: $138. 25% of the proceeds of the set will be donated to Fashion Targets Summer Fridays campaign. Go to www.jurlique.com and make a difference.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

beauty for a cure: LaLicious


A kiss is not just a kiss... This month, LaLicious donates 15% of their new Sugar Kiss scent purchases online to the Breast Cancer Research Fund. A blend of sugar, rose and vanilla combine in the Sugar Kiss Sugar Souffle Scrub ($34) and Body Butter ($24)--the perfect ways to satisfy cravings without the calories. They smell really sweet (think cotton candy!) and leave your skin feeling buttery soft and smooth. Go to www.LaLicious.com to place your order and help fight breast cancer at the same time. Talk about a sweet deal!

beauty for a cure: tarte


As if there isn't enough incentive to buy Tarte products any time of the year... This month, Tarte Cosmetics will offer 20% of proceeds from it's Think Pink natural collection to the Young Survival Coalition in support of women under 40 living with breast cancer. Products include the Double Dose Berry Boost & Gloss ($21), Natural Cheek Stain ($30), Lock & Roll Creaseless Cream & Powder Shadow Duo ($17), multiplEYE Natural Lash Enhancer ($65) and an adorable Pink Glo Dutch Clutch ($22). Go to www.tartecosmetics.com and take advantage of this exclusive offer while you can.

Monday, October 19, 2009

beauty for a cure: The Plaza Beauty by Warren Tricomi


I was a Warren-Tricomi fan for years--stopping by the 57th Street salon for regular cuts and blow-outs whenever needed. I have interviewed Ed Tricomi backstage at New York Fashion Week many times and it was his staff that I commissioned to do my hair and makeup for my wedding day. That's why I love the concept of The Plaza Beauty by Warren Tricomi at the Plaza Retail Collection.

This one-stop shopping spot offers a carefully curated selection of must-haves for the season. Expect products like Smashbox makeup, Aquiesse fragrances, The Different Company skin care, Tocca fragrance and candles, and more. I still rely on some of my staples from the summer to get me through Fall in style. The hydrating Kai Body Glow dry oil mist refreshes and replenishes skin. It really leaves you with a subtle glow and is scented with exotic white flowers so you can skip your usual dose of fragrance. Smashbox Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss adds a hint of color and shine (up to six hours worth!) plus SPF 15 for extra protection. Try Forever (Whispering pink), Nonstop (cool raspberry) or Endless (sheer plum--my fave!).

This month, shopping at The Plaza Beauty will not only highlight your best features on the outside, it will also showcase your inner beauty in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Buy Revitalash lash strengthening formula (shown here) and get a complimentary mascara and Pink Ribbon Cosmetic Bag (20% of proceeds will go to the cause). In addition, accessory designer Lucia Tristao, who lost her father and two aunts to the disease, designed a pink ribbon rhinestone headband to raise money for the cure which is exclusively sold at The Plaza Beauty (20% will go to Breast cancer Awareness Programs). Make your contribution at www.theplazabeauty.com.