curls for a cure: Ouidad

For years now Ouidad, the curl guru, has helped bring life to the curls of many women. Today she is giving life to women everywhere--no matter what their hair status. In 2002, Ouidad was diagnosed with breast cancer, a disease that took her mother’s life, and was fortunate enough to make a full recovery. This season marks the 5th anniversary of her charity, Curls for a Cure. Ouidad matches dollar-for-dollar any donations made to Curls for a Cure ALL YEAR ROUND to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. She hopes to raise a quarter of a million dollars and has almost reached her goal. The great news is that you don't have to make a purchase to contribute. Just make a contribution on Ouidad's website or add a donation to your shopping cart when purchasing any of Ouidad's amazing products. Try the innovative Double Detangler, a wide tooth comb designed to work its way through tangles while maintaining the wave pattern, a must for creating natural looking curls. Or treat your hair with the Climate Control Gel ($22), an alcohol-free formula that protects hair from humidity by absorbing moisture from the air to hydrate hair and prevent frizz. To learn more and donate now, visit www.ouidad.com/bcrf/curls-for-a-cure.asp.

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.

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.