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, July 23, 2010

brush with greatness

There is no such thing as frizz free--especially in summer. There's "more controlled frizz" or "limited frizz" but frizz free? C'mon. I wasn't born yesterday. Goody's new brushes come close, though, to offering reduced frizz for your hair. I have been determined to find a great new brush every since my last one flew off the handle during use a couple of months ago! (It was wood.) Now I love my Dual Bristle Oval Round brush from the Goody Pro Achieve Collection ($2.50-$7.50). The unique oval shape provides maximum lift while ball-tipped nylon bristles on one side of the brush give you height and control and natural boar bristles on the other side deliver control and beautiful shine. After the first time I used it, three people asked if I had gotten my hair done. And if that's not reason enough to make the purchase, I don't know what is. Check out the entire Goody Pro collection at www.goody.com.

expert advice: get a great summer makeup look, from Jackie Gomez of Pur Minerals

We're so excited to learn that Pür Minerals has tapped makeup artist to the stars Jackie Gomez as the brand’s in-house makeup artist, bringing her expertise to Pür Minerals’ collection of gentle, effective, mineral-based cosmetics. Gomez has worked her magic on stars like Zoe Saldana and Beyoncé Knowles and has created endless red carpet-ready looks. Here, she offers her favorite must-haves for a great summer beauty look...

•The Under Control Mattifying Gel is this summer’s absolute must have! It not only minimizes pores, but also provides a beautiful matte finish that is especially great for t-zone and oily skin. Use it under makeup or at night as a treatment.

• 4-in-1 is the perfect product for the upcoming hot summer days. This powder foundation, concealer, SPF and finishing powder in one, also contains shea butter, which is great for hydration. Filled with natural ingredients and vitamins, the 4-in-1 not only looks great but its also fantastic for your skin. Definitely the best way to touch up and protect your skin throughout the day!

• GreatPur Intensity Eyeliner Gel is my absolute favorite eyeliner for the summer! It is smudge proof, waterproof, and truly silky - a perfect formula that is guaranteed to withstand summer heat anywhere in the world.

• Fulvic Mineral Mist is an oasis for your hair, face, and body. Filled with 70 essential vitamins and minerals, it is a perfect way to hydrate, strengthen and refresh yourself throughout the day. This mist will even help get rid of static electricity and those unruly flyaways.

• Get A Little is a great way to get that bronzy, summer glow without stepping foot in the sun. This self-tanning formula works by gradually deepening the color of your skin. Filled with aloe vera, green tea, grape seed extract and vitamins, Get A Little is guaranteed to give you a beautiful, even color in only one to three days. To achieve the best results, remember to always exfoliate before applying any self tanner.

For more amazing summer makeup products, go to www.purminerals.com.