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.


Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Update Your Fall Beauty Routine, as seen on WPIX Morning News with Beauty/Style writer Susan Redstone


When the season changes, what to do with your beauty routine? as it does? And how much is it going to cost? Do you know when to splurge and where to save? Beauty and Style writer Susan Redstone has the scoop on Fall's newest beauty items that replenish, replace, protect and refresh -- just in time for winter.

SPLURGE on FACE: You can't put a price on great-looking skin. Skinceuticals "Emollience" Rich Brazillian sea-algae moisturizer is great for cold weather, dry skin and skin at altitude that gets dry. $59 www.skinceuticals.com

SAVE on TEETH: White is right. Rembrandt Deeply White (2hr Whitening Kit) The trend to whiten is huge! Lip colors are DARK so you need WHITE TEETH! Mouth applicators that mold under hot water make them custom fit. Just four sessions of 20 minutes gets the job done. $25 at drugstores.

SPLURGE on NAILS: Way to nail it. "Dr.'s Remedy" polish. Formaldehyde-Free colors with fungus-busting Tea Tree oil. Invented by podiatrists and finger nail doctors. Safe if pregnant, safe for kids to use. $17 www.remedynails.com

SAVE on LIPS: Lip service. "Baby Lips" Repairing and tinted lip balms with active Asian botanticals by Maybelline New York, $3.99 at drugstores.

SAVE on BODY: Rx for smooth skin. Vaseline Intensive Rescue Repairing Moisture Lotion. Not greasy, this triples moisture reserves and it's unscented. $5.99 at Drugstores.

Monday, October 31, 2011

keep this on file


Tired of your old sandpaper emory board wearing out after just a few uses? Welcome to the world of glass nail files.

I recently came across the Mont Bleu e-shop, the only place to buy genuine glass nail files. Made with the best traditions of Bohemian of Czech strained glass, and decorated with original Swarovski crystals, they are beautiful tools to keep on your vanity or in your makeup bag and, trust me, you'll wear yourself out before they wear themselves out.

I love the crystal decorated versions (shown here), which come in beautiful velvet cases and make great gifts just in time for the rapidly approaching holiday season. I am also a fan of the classic style, which comes in a variety of colors.

Mont Bleu also offers other tools and accessories to keep a girl looking and feeling pretty. Choose from a wide assortment of cosmetic mirrors, makeup brushes, hair brushes, hair pins, key rings, business card holders, letter openers, jewelry and so much more.

Visit www.design-glassware.com to place your order.


Thursday, October 27, 2011

it's a wrap

Scarves saturated the runway this fall, from Custo Barcelona's thick necklace styles to Missoni's mohair versions to Tommy Hilfiger's sportswear-inspired capes. Some other coverups that makes a style statement--and a worthy investment--this season: Fine quality scarves, wraps and shawls from ShawLux.

Made from the highest grades of cashmere, silk and wool, ShawLux represents a fusion of traditional luxury fabric, embroideries and craftsmanship from a diverse group of artists hailing from India and Kashmir.

Designer Annu Gyani founded the company by outsourcing the embellishments on her scarves to local artists for whom this work is their livelihood. The Artists practice a specialized weaving technique and embroidery form that is based on ancestral skills that are passed on from generation to generation.

In addition to the existing textiles and designs this fall marks the debut of the Digital Print arm of ShawLux; incorporating iconic landmarks, scenes from history and abstract imagery that will catch the eye of any passerby and have you looking fashionably chic.

Now you can even contribute to the race to cure breast cancer by purchasing one of these beautiful designs. ShawLux donates 30% of the purchases of its Kiss Me Lips scarf to the American Cancer Society--now that's a very good reason to go shopping.

ShawLux has already found a loyal following selling in top boutiques and department stores across the country and internationally including; Nordstrom stores nationwide, specialty boutiques across the USA, Canada, Switzerland, Japan and Germany. Prices range from $50 - $250 for the embellished scarves and capes and $125-$150.00 for the Debut Collection of Digital Prints.

Go to www.shawlux.com for more info.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

winterize your beauty routine, reported by Susan Redstone as seen on CBS Better Mornings Atlanta


Time to change your beauty routine and clear out your make up case. With seasonal trends and cooler weather fast approaching, it's time to toss out your summer colors, refresh your regime and protect your face for winter. Stylist Susan Redstone shows us how...


PREPPING FOR WINTER

1. TEETH WHITENING -- the trend to whiten is huge. Dentist whitenening costs a fortune, but this method costs only $7 a piece. No complex steps, or messy mouthguards to deal with. It will give you the confidence you need to wear winter's bold new lip colors. Rembrandt mouthwash and toothpaste, $7 each at Walgreens.


2. SPLURGE ON WINTER WEIGHT NIGHT CREAM Repair your skin with plant DNA technology, a new science trend for skin products. The high tech, doctor brand DNA EGF Renewal, www.dnaegfrenewal.com, costs $130. Save on body lotion too with Vaseline Intensive Rescue, only $4 at drugstores.


3. REPAIR LIPS WITH FLAVORED TINTED LIP BALM -- Say goodbye to chapped lips. Tinted balms protect, repair and tint lips leaving them looking and feeling gorgeous. By Maybelline New York, $4, at drugstores.


MAKE UP TRENDS

4. MATTE BOLD LIP COLORS 'Amsterdam' by NYX Cosmetics, www.nyxcosmetics.com, is a professional line for less, only $6. And it looks best when worn with a flawless face, thanks to NYX Cosmetics Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation by NYX Cosmetics, $9.50 At ULTA.


5. THE RETURN OF THE CAT EYE -- 'Walk the Line' liquid liner by Hard Candy does double duty with a lash growth serum, under $7, at Walmart. Wear it with flushed face Fox in a Box by Hard Candy (an ALLURE MAGAZINE winner), only $6, at Walmart or www.walmart.com.


6. GLITTER GLUE and GRAY FOR HALLOWEEN Try Showgirls Secret Glitter Glue (developed by Vegas showgirls to keep glitter on!) by Hard Candy, $5, and NYX 'advanced salon formula,' $6, at www.nyxcosmetics.com.


Monday, October 3, 2011

fashion week: Maybelline's fashion week retreat

One of the best things about fashion week is trying out all the great makeup out there and, better yet, having it personally applied. This way, you get all the latest and greatest application tips. At the Maybelline's Fashion Week Retreat at Robert Verdi's Luxe Lounge, my personal makeup artist gave me a choice of different looks that either played up porcelain skin, dramatic eyes and other features. Her makeup picks for me included: Fit Me! Foundation, Blush and Pressed Powder in Medium, great LAsh Mascara in Clear, Lasting Drama Gel Liner in Blackest Black and Color Sensation Lipcolor in Born With It. Armed with a customized face chart that I could follow at home and tons of great new products, I headed to my next fashion week event.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

fashion week: Remington waves

Next stop on my fashion week makeover quest: the Remington style booth. Lucky fashionistas who stopped by got a complementary Ultimate Stylist tool, designed to straighten, create tight curls, loose curls or waves so you get four looks with one simple to you styling product. I decided to try another innovative tool the brand just launched: the Remington WRAP TO WAVES—a revolutionary dual-pronged styler that makes sexy beach waves easier than ever. With no clamp to get in the way, simply wrap each strand between the two barrels and glide right through hair for an effortlessly chic style that lasts from day to play. It was a refreshing look from my typical blow dry and easy to do since you just have to wrap the strands and voila! You're ready to go. Even the most challenged hair novices can pull this one off. Pick one up at Walmart stores or get more info at www.remingtonproducts.com.

fashion week: getting around town

The best way to beat the traffic at New York Fashion Week? Hop into one of the specially designated pedicabs hired to take you from one amazing event to another. I took a pedicab from Lincoln Center to the Bing Lounge in the Mandarin Hotel. The space was a welcome retreat for fashion week attendees in need of a quick bit or a quiet place to file a story. And you could get a great latte there too. After meeting up with fellow journalists, we moved on to a slew of other great fashion week events.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

winterize your beauty regimen, reported by Susan Redstone as seen on ABC 7 chicago, WLS-TV


Want to turn your summer beauty routine into a targeted fall/winter regimen? Stylist Susan Redstone shares her favorite must-have products...

REMBRANDT "Deeply White" collection Peroxide Mouthwash and Toothpaste. It gets out surface and deep stains. WHY YOU NEED IT Deep lipsticks are in style. So, teeth whitening is huge, so are costly dentist office procedures. But, instead, this is budget friendly, no messy mouthguards. Simply swtich out your toothpaste and rinse for these ones. $7 each at WALGREENS

BABY LIPS REPAIRING LIP BALM by MAYBELLINE NEW YORK -- the first collection of treatment lip products from this line, boosted with botanical cell renewal concentrates. WHY YOU NEED IT It repairs lips so they are visibily quenched, smoother, look moisturized and not rough and it comes in clear or tinted, with SPF 20. And they're fun to wear!$3.99 at DRUGSTORES NATIONWIDE

VASELINE INTENSIVE BODY RESCUE LOTION Save on this drugstore available body lotion. WHY YOU NEED IT It's fabulously moisturzing and not expensive, fragrance free and doesn’t compete with your perfumes. Buy this must-have body lotion and splurge on the face creams instead. $2.99

DNA RENEWAL NIGHT CREAM -- by DNA EFG RENEWAL Beverly Hills Doc Ron Moy is the leading expert in plant DNA skin science.WHY YOU NEED IT This is the fastest cell renewal you can buy on the market. Plant DNA helps generate new cells fast and repair summer's sun damage. And its RICH so you only need a little. $130 www.dnaegfrenewal.com

FALL COLORS by NYX COSMETICS Don't start fall without these warm, smoky shades. MERLOT, try a deep wine colored lipstick, $6. PUMP IT UP LIP PLUMPER, it feels tingly and adds great color, $6. SMOKEY LOOK KIT, create your own looks for only $13. WHY YOU NEED THEM On trend, professional quality make up at drugstore prices. Get more value for your money. www.nyxcosmetics.com

Sunday, September 11, 2011

fashion week: the big red bus

It's hard to miss the big red bus stationed outside Lincoln Center for fashion week, waiting to makeup, polish and primp any fashionista who wants a pick-me-up during the shows. I was one of the first to get an appointment.

First, Theresa Ann, nail specialist from Red Door Spas at Woodbury Village painted my nails in the same shade bestowed upon the models behind the scenes at the Nicholas K fashion show--a silvery lavender hue.

"It looks great against any skin tone," says Theresa who was up at 4, did her own makeup on the LIRR, and was at the tents at 6 a.m. to prep models for the show.

Next, I got a complete makeover from makeup artist/image consultant Vivian Wynter, who gave me a subtly smoky eye, beautifully blended concealed skin, perfectly contoured cheeks and a glamorous nude lip.

I left the bus feeling more than ready to brave the endless days of fashion week that lay ahead.

For more info, go to reddoorspas.com.

fashion week: chic bohemian

Looking for a hair style that's sophisticated but classic? Zahir Ziani, national creative director and master hair stylist for Red Door Spas offered this look for the models at the Nicholas K show. He left the hair straight and flowing with three small textured braids extending from the nape of the neck. For some models, headscarves were used to illustrate the natural, celestial movement of the sea.

"I was inspired by the chic bohemian look," says Ziani, "and the feeling of a woman walking in a desert full of beautiful clothes." He created three side braids woven close to the scalp and left the rest of the hair sleek and smooth. Try Kerastase Elixir Ultime for a longer-lasting smooth blowout and a drop of shine, plus a touch of spray to make the look last but keep it natural.


Saturday, September 10, 2011

fashion week: mediterranean blues

Good news for all of us green-eyes girls: To accentuate the greens, blues and charcoals of the Nicholas K spring collection, Lindsay Ebbins, national makeup director for Red Door Spas created soft makeup looks featuring accents of peach, coral and cream, Cheekss are refined with bronze and gold shades (Try Nars Orgasm Blush for a pinky-peach flush with subtle highlights and accents of golden shimmer).

To get the look, Ebbins used a ceramide plumping foundation, pure finish mineral powder to create a soft ethereal feeling. For a contoured effect, he applied bronzer to lids, lower lashline (using a wet shadow brush) and cheeks and vanilla shadow below the browbone and on the inner corners. A thickening mascara on eyes created very dense lashes and really made them pop and a slick of LipFix on lips kept them completely nude and matter for a downtown chic palette.

For more info, go to reddoorspas.com.

fashion week: men in makeup

We women don't always have it easy: think childbirth, monthly pms, bad hair days. But one thing we can be grateful for is the right to wear makeup to improve and enhance our looks. I always thought it unfair that, for the most part, it isn't acceptable for men to partake in these makeup touch-ups to help boost their self confidence. Except maybe for big-time rock stars or your local hairdresser, you never see a man with a makeup brush in hand.

According to Lindsay Ebbin, National Makeup Director for Red Door Spas, times are changing. He gave the models at the Nicholas K show a classic GQ look.

"It's a great natural base for all skin types," says Ebbin. "My goal is to clean up the look, moisturize the skin and accent the eyes."

He says many men who work at computers all day long need eye cream and are looking to use concealers so they don't look tired all the time. He used a light moisturizer to hydrate skin, a natural, lightweight base to even out their skin tone, and a touch of concealer under their eyes to revive them.

Says Ebbin, "They want healthy looking skin so they can embrace their inner self."

While I'm no more ready to share my makeup brushes with my husband than he is ready to borrow them, I hope those guys who dare to try it reap the benefits.

For more info on this look, go to nicholask.com or style.com.


Thursday, September 8, 2011

FASHION WEEK SS '12





New York Fashion Week.
Let the shows begin!

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Fashion's Night Out: Warren-Tricomi and Violent Lips

Warren-Tricomi Salon at The Plaza presents an evening of fashion-forward beauty with Violent Lips. Guests will be treated to complimentary Violent Lip temporary lip tattoo application, makeup touchups and trend-setting fall hair how-tos courtesy of the Warren-Tricomi beauty experts.

I'm not one to promote violence but you've got to try these Violent Lip temporary tattoos, available at Lester's and now as part of a special event at Warren-Tricomi salon for Fashion's Night Out. They come in snakeskin (shown here), rainbow, leopard and fishnet--how can you resist? Pair that with an amazing hair style and makeup application from the Warren-Tricomi expert styling team. On the fence? I trusted them to do my wedding hair and makeup, and was thrilled!


Don't miss this exciting event and a major part of Fashion's Night Out. For more info, go to warrentricomi.com or violentlips.com.

Monday, August 8, 2011

summer makeup look, from celeb makeup artist Mally Roncal


Famous for creating gorgeous “look at me” eyes, style-maker and celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal (Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Rihanna, Mariska Hargitay are fans) brings you expert picks for sultry summer eyes – and cheeks, and lips!

Mally's advice for an easy beach-bound makeup look: Slather on the SPF everywhere! Curl your lashes and coat with waterproof mascara to avoid runaway eye makeup. Give definition to your face with a waterproof brow pencil. Peach is the new pink and that goes double for lip gloss…try Mally Beauty Lip Gloss in Be a Peach or Mally Beauty High Shine Liquid Lipstick in Summer Peach. Don’t skip concealer or you’ll look tired. Mally Beauty Cancellation Conditioning Concealer SPF 25 is the perfect summertime option.

I tried Be a Peach and love it. It's the perfect beachy shade in a super-smoothing texture. I have yet to leave home without it this summer.

Molly also recommends using VISINE® Soothing Wipes as a great product to use at the end of the day. Before you wash your face, gently remove eye makeup (even stubborn waterproof mascara!) with VISINE® Soothing Wipes. Store them in the fridge for an extra-cool, refreshing treat. They really revive tired eyes and feel refreshing after a long day outdoors. They're are also great to stash in your bag for all your summer weekend getaways.

For more info on Molly's beauty looks, go to www.visine.com.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

"step into summer" contest, enter today!


There's nothing worse than heading into summer with feet that are less than worthy of showing off. Thanks to Kiss Products, the leader in artificial nail technology, and lovemyshoes.com, you can enter the “Step into Summer” Sweepstakes and give your feet the TLC they deserve. Each winner will receive the colorful beach bag shown here, a Kiss branded beach towel, an assortment of Kiss toenail and at-home pedicure tools, plus a pair of Havaiana Sandals from lovemyshoes.com.


To Enter:

Entrants must “Like” the Kiss Nails facebook page, submit name, address & email to the contest form

Facebook fans will have 4 chances to enter on 6/21, 6/28, 7/5 & 7/12 only. One winner will be selected from each day’s entries using a third party random draw service.

To enter, visit: Facebook.com/kissnails & click on “Kiss Freebies”.

summer skin: who wears short shorts?

Tiny skirts, mini dresses and short shorts mean summer is here. But before you head outside to bare all, be sure your skin is smooth, silky and ready to show off. The Remington Smooth & Silky collection comes to the rescue with a brand new shaver that gets the job done (and, btw, looks great on your bathroom countertop).

The details: Dual foils for closer skin contact, a revolutionary hypoallergenic cutting system to combat irritation, and Curve Flex Technology – a contour following trimmer system with a protective guard that effectively trims long hairs and reduces skin irritation – makes these new shavers the bare necessities for a flawless, beach-ready body. All I know is just one shave leaves your legs looking and feeling silky smooth.

There are different options to suit your shaving style: Try the Battery-Operated Shaver ($14.99), the Rechargeable Electric Shaver ($19.99) or the Smooth-Trim Electric Shaver ($39.99). Remington products are available at Walmart and at www.remingtonproducts.com.



Tuesday, June 14, 2011

happy father's day: on the move

If the guy in your life is in and out of town, he's probably a pro at packing light. Get him the perfect gift for the Provencal Gentleman – L’Occitane Gentleman of Provence Set ($45). These luxe L’Occitane products offer a rich fragrance full of the rugged and mysterious scents of Provence. The set includes the L’Occitane Shaving Gel, After Shave Balm and Shea Milk Soap. To purchase it as a gift, go to www.loccitane.com.

Monday, June 6, 2011

expert scoop: Le Metier de Beaute luxury cosmetics


Sure, you can buy as much drugstore brand makeup as you want...but sometimes you want to splurge on something really special. Le Metier De Beaute products use advanced technology and luxurious formulations to make you look and feel beautiful. Here, International Makeup Artist Ivan Castro gives us the scoop behind the line...

Prettyisprettydoes: What's was the inspiration for Le Metier De Beaute?

Ivan Castro: "The inspiration behind Le Metier De Beaute lies in the passion which goes into crafting the most incredible cosmetics that can be formulated."

PIPD: What's something special in the line that you won't find anywhere else?

IC: "Le Metier De Beaute offers a line of professional quality, travel sized make up brushes that are PETA Approved."

PIPD: Who is the Le Metier De Beaute customer?

IC: "Le Metier De Beaute attracts women who truly care about luxury cosmetics that are not only beautiful but also life changing."

PIPD: How does new technology come into play:

IC: "Le Metier De Beaute is all about fusing high-quality skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and retinol with richly pigmented, high performing luxurious textures."

PIPD: Why are women so obsessed with luxury cosmetics?

IC: "Women are returning to luxury because they now, more than ever before, appreciate the value of a fantastic product."

PIPD: What's your favorite Le Metier De Beaute product?

IC: "My favorite product is Peau Vierge Anti-Age Tinted Moisturizing SPF17 because it instantly delivers a radiant finish and combats redness on contact."

For more info on Le Metier de Beaute products, go to www.metierbeaute.com.

Thursday, June 2, 2011

summer must-haves: don't leave home without elemental herbs

If this past holiday weekend is any indication, it's going to be a hot summer. Before you jet-set to your beach house or a rooftop party in the city, be sure to pack the Elemental Herbs line of all natural herbal-based products.

Shelter your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Elemental Herbs all natural Sunscreen Sport, a chemical-free, zinc oxide sunscreen offering broad UCA/UVB protection. It comes in a mini tube so you can throw it into your purse for sun protection anytime. Just smooth it on your skin and it sinks right in to create the protective barrier you need. Sunscreen Sport™ is available in Sport SPF 20 and Tinted SPF 22, and also comes in a children’s formula - Kids SPF 20 ($8.99 for one-ounce and $19.39 for three-ounce bottles).

Protect and nourish your lips with Elemental Herbs’ All Good Lips ($3.50). This all natural lip balm will keep your lips healthy and moisturized with organic healing herbs and 100% essential oils. It feels super smooth going on and, with an SPF of 12, offers more than 90% coverage from the sun’s harmful rays. Available in original, sweet tangerine and cool spearmint flavors, and in a non-SPF moisturizing-only formula.

Pamper yourself with All Good Goop, a skin-healing balm made from botanicals and herbs. It's the cure all for every skin condition. I keep it in my bag because you never know what skin issues may arise--a paper cut, chapped lips, a sunburn, etc. ($8.50 for one-ounce and $13.50 for two-ounce jars).


To purchase product or get more info, go to www.elementalherbs.com.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

have you heard the crazy rumor going around?


The Crazy Rumor is: There's a yummy, organic lip balm in tons of fun flavors that you have to try!


When Edie and Brian Himmel set out to create the best all natural and vegan lip balm in the world--they weren't joking! Made from the purest, natural, certified organic ingredients (no synthetics) like moisturizing organic shea butter and jojoba oil in deliciously fun flavors, Crazy Rumors lip balms ($3.49 each) make your lips feel super smooth and the scents are heavenly!


One slick on Bubble Gum will take you back to those bubble-gum-from-the-gum-machine days. Fortunately, this lip balm lasts longer than your bubble gum ever did. It comes in Berry Bubble and Mint Bubble along with the original Gumball. But there are other fun collections to try too. Look for A La Mode, Soda Pop, Candy Cane and Fresh Squeezed (includes thirst-quenching flavors like Orange Juice, Pink Grapefruit Juice, Lemonade and Limeade). There's even a Mystery Flavor that keeps you guessing!


To celebrate the warmer weather, Crazy Rumors is offering 15% off with the coupon code “FRESH". Spread the word--this offer is good until June 15th 2011. Go to www.crazyrumors.com to purchase.




Friday, May 27, 2011

look like a natural beauty


Summer is fast approaching. Whether you're frolicking at the beach or socializing downtown, you'll want to achieve a natural summer glow. Here, some tips on how to look like a natural beauty from stylist Susan Redstone, as seen today on Atlanta TV.

Prep Your Skin: Red Carpet Primer from emergenC
Red Carpet Primer ($42) from emerginC is a tinted primer that's infused with plant-based plumping micro-spheres and Vitamin C to immediately reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.You'll see almost immediate plumping of the skin surface which reduces small wrinkles within one hour – leaving skin plump, smooth and ready for the red carpet! Available at leading spas nationwide, plus www.emerginc.com.

Show Off Your DNA: Growth Factor Serum from DNA EGF Renewal
Growth Factor Serum from DNA EGF Renewal ($145) is alightweight plant-based serum that accelerates the growth of healthy skin cells so that texture is refined, pores look visibly smaller, and younger, fresher skin emerges. - The line was created by top dermatologist Dr Ron Moy, who is on the forefront of DNA technology and Growth Factors in skincare. Available via www.dnaegfrenewal.com.

Hydrate Your Lips: LypSyl Lip Balm
LypSyl lip balm ($2.99) originated in Sweden over 100 years ago, with a name derived from the Swedish to communicate the soothing and natural benefits of beeswax. Formulated from all-natural, pure Swedish beeswax, LypSyl products combine natural and therapeutic ingredients like organic Shea butter, coconut oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A, providing unsurpassed moisture and lip protection. LypSyl has a unique creamy texture and lightweight consistency that goes on smoothly and feels better on lips than other leading brands. LypSyl offers a unique patented lip balm delivery system with a sliding bee that is easy to use and helps to apply the lip balm more evenly. Try the LypSyl HoneyBerry SPF at Walgreens, CVS, Rite-Aid, Shop-Rite and Wal-Mart stores and www.drugstore.com.

Sleek Legs: Schick Quattro for Women Disposable Razor
The new Schick Quattro for Women Disposable Razor ($7) with a handle scented in Skintimate's best-selling scent, Raspberry Rain, keeps your legs smooth for that natural beauty look. The brand's multi-city "shower your senses" mobile tour will be at the Atlanta SummerFest on the weekend of June 4th so you can stop by for product giveaways, fun activities and more. Available at drugstores nationwide.

A Perfect Fit: FIT ME! from Maybelline New York
The first shade-aligned system of foundation, concealer, powder and blush, the new Fit Me! Collection features Maybelline New York’s largest range of shades to date - 18 shades of foundation and powder, 6 shades of concealer, 12 shades of blush and 3 shades of bronzer – all offering coverage that blends weightlessly and matches skin tone flawlessly. It’s a full regimen of lightweight face products tailor made for individual skin tones, featuring a technology that blends and enhances skin tone. All products go beyond basic shade matching, leaving skin the way it was meant to be –fresh, breathing, perfectly flawless and most importantly let’s YOU be YOU. Fit Me! goes beyond matching. It let’s skin breathe without clogging pores – providing a coverage that’s not opaque or dry, but perfectly fresh and natural. The formula delivers ultimate blendability, breathable skin, and True to Her color for a custom-fit effect. Fit Me! Foundation ($7.99) is a unique translucent base combined with ultra-lightweight pigments that allow the foundation to give replicate the shade on the skin and natural coverage. Also try Fit Me! Powder ($7.99), Fit Me! Concealer ($6.49) and Fit Me! Blush ($5.51) at mass market retailers nationwide.

Go Nude: Nyx Cosmetics' Nude on Nude Palette
This beautiful Nude on Nude palette ($25) contains a collection of effortless earthy hues and shades to complement and emphasize your natural beauty, all available in one sleek compact palette! There are 20 eyeshadows and 10 lip colors to choose from. This is one of Nyx’s top-sellers. This is a very popular summer gift for brides-to-be as well. For more info, go to www.nyxcosmetics.com. Talk about looking good in the nude.


Thursday, May 19, 2011

treat and conceal: it's a miracle!

Have you ever tried to use a concealer to erase dark circles, even out skin tone or hide other skin flaws, only to find that you could still see the flaws right through? Not this time. Miracle Skin Transformer's next-generation 3-in-1 Treat & Conceal concealer ($36) really does the trick. It blends right into your skin, actually erasing everything you ever wanted to hide.

The first-ever naturally derived silicone based concealer, Treat & Conceal hydrates, covers and protects with powerful treatment benefits. Designed for use on both the under eye area and the face, Treat & Conceal will correct, cover and protect all of your skin’s concerns leaving you with a flawless complexion.

The best part: You can actually see the difference. I kept walking from room to room trying to look at my skin in better light because I just couldn't believe the coverage. Available in light, light/medium and medium, see for yourself at www.miracleskintransformer.com.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

May is Melanoma Awareness Month


As melanoma is the fastest growing and most lethal form of skin cancer, it's important to know these relevant facts and be familiar with simple ways to protect yourself.

FACTS: Melanoma Research Foundation – www.melanoma.org
· Every hour of every day someone in the United States dies from melanoma
· Melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers in the United States and World Wide
· Most melanoma is curable in the early stages with an over 90% survival rate
· Most causes of melanoma are caused by exposure to UV light and sunlight.

Dr. Leonard Farber, founder of the Farber Center in NYC says to know your ABC’s. Danger signs of malignant melanomas:
A: Asymmetry (uneven shape)
B: Border (irregular or jagged)
C: Color (varied- often mixed black, brown, tan or any change in color)
D: Diameter (large size (¼ inch or 6mm, typically the size of a pencil eraser)
E: Evolving- moles that change in size, shape, color, or elevation

Carefully examine your skin once a month and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes. If melanoma runs in your family, make sure all of your family members are checked regularly by a dermatologist once or twice a year. Protect yourself from UV radiation by practicing safe sun habits:
  • Avoid the sun during the peak hours (generally 10AM - 4PM)
  • Use sunscreen daily. Sunscreen should contain elements which block both UVA and UVB rays and should have an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after sweating or swimming. Do not use a sunscreen to spend more time in the sun.
  • Wear protective clothing if you are going to be exposed to a lot of sun (or you are particularly sun sensitive). Wear a wide brimmed hat, long sleeved shirts/pants, and sunglasses.
  • Avoid tanning salons. Exposure to tanning salons increases your risk of melanoma.
More on Melanoma Month to come...stay tuned!

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

in condition


"Try it, you'll like it?" It's more like "Try it, you'll love it!" My hair has never looked or felt so good. I can't stop running my hands through it ever since I tried Wen® Cleansing Conditioner. It feels so silky soft that you feel like you should be hired to star in the commercial.

This is truly a revolutionary new concept in hair care. A 5-in-1 formula, this one product takes the place of your shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler and leave-in conditioner. It cleanses hair thoroughly but without lathering and all the harsh ingredients that may be found in ordinary shampoos—it is designed so it won't strip your hair and scalp of their natural oils. Your hair is left with sheen, moisture, manageability and better color retention.

Celebrity stylist Chaz Dean created Wen®, an industry-changing product line that is the first ever to exclude ordinary shampoo. What sets Wen® apart from the rest is its cleansing conditioner, a single-step process that cleanses and conditions the hair simultaneously.

You won't believe it till you try it--so go to www.wenhaircare.com now to place your order.