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.


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!