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.


Monday, February 14, 2011

happy vday: kiss bliss


A kiss is just a kiss...or is it? Hopefully, you'll be doing some serious smooching this Valentine's Day so it's best to be prepared. Try these soft and sheer Tinted Lip Balms from Burt’s Bees for a hint of sheer color and a cutting edge formula that leaves your lips feeling smooth. Available in six modern, wearable shades and a sweet natural flavor, these 100% natural balms care for your lips with soft flower waxes, moisture‐rich Shea Butter and Vitamin E, leaving lips feeling smooth, healthy and totally kissable. Visit www.burtsbees.com and go ahead, pucker up.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

happy vday: three must-haves for a night of romance


Got a romantic evening in store? Fit these three beauty/fashion essentials into your vday routine and you'll be ready for romance.


#1 Show your hair some love.. with the LOVE Collection from Davines. Whether your hair demands deep conditioning or hydrating definition, the LOVE formulas nurture and care for hair in need of some TLC. Try LOVE Smoothing Shampoo ($22) for dry, frizzy hair. The prickly pear extract provides intense moisture to hair and scalp while Indian Fig Extract heals hair cuticles, leaving hair manageable. LOVE Smoothing Conditioner ($25) works to replenish both hair and scalp, restoring heat-damaged hair with Vitamin E so hair looks soft, silky and manageable. More info at www.davines.com.


#2 Get your senses in the mood with the ultra- creamy Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Sensual Black Currant Vanilla Body Lotion ($13) before you get dressed. Black Currant Absolute inspires heightened sensuality while Vanilla Absolute soothes and calms. Go to www.bathandbodyworks.com to purchase.

#3 Stilettos equal sexy...foot pain doesn't. But with the help of Foot Petal’s Rose and Rosebud Tip Toes, your night will be pain-free guaranteed. "Instantly look 10 lbs thinner and 10 yrs younger by slipping on high heels,” says certified pedorthist and creator of Foot Petals, Tina Aldatz. “ I love the look of opaque tights with patent pumps, but tights can cause toes to slide forward--Foot Petals will prevent this." Virtually invisible in all of your shoes, Tip Toes help prevent calluses from forming, protect bones and tissue, and cushion the sensitive ball-of-foot area. $6.95 at www.footpetals.com.