Welcome To My Drowsy Wednesday: L'Occitane En Provence Eye Balm (review and GWP tip)

Ooooh…two French companies in a row!

No, I'm not going all Francophile on you. I had actually planned to review this later on in the week; however…last night I stayed up way too late talking on the phone. It was one of those really long, satisfying conversations…which was very cool. When I hung up, I even lay in bed happily thinking about our conversation for a while. Also cool. Falling asleep after 1:30am – not very cool (but you already knew that). So to make my long story about my long conversation a bit shorter, I'll skip right to our lovely item from L'Occitane En Provence.

Immortelle Eye Balm

Blurb: An eye cream with anti-aging benefits: Reduce dark circles, puffiness and signs of tiredness around the eyes with this gentle cream. Formulated with Immortelle essential oil, this cream will soothe, moisturize, nourish and tone the delicate skin around the eyes. To apply, tap a small amount of Eye Balm on the bone around the eye twice daily.

After I peeled myself out of bed and washed my face; I dabbed a bit (just a bit) under my very puffy, red eyes. What I love most about this balm is that soothes almost instantly. My little peepers started feeling better right away. The formula has an almost gel-like consistency and absorbs very quickly. It also depuffs a little, and keeps hydrating throughout the day – even under concealer (concealer was required today).

This would be an awfully good time to visit the website (and I just put up a link in the shopping section). Right now you can get a free Delightful Hands Set with any purchase of $55 or more from the Peony collection (code: PEONY). Of course visiting your local L'Occitane boutique and trying out all the goodies is pretty fun too. You can also find their lovely products at Sephora and Beauty.com.
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Toothsome Tuesday: Elgydium Toothpaste (review)

I know…toothpaste? Yes, toothpaste. Why? Because nice white teeth will make you prettier, that's why.

And it's from France.

Elgydium Toothpaste

Blurb: Elgydium Toothpaste is specially formulated with micro-crystalline baking soda. This exclusive formula makes the baking soda efficient in even the smallest fissures in tooth enamel and eliminates the abrasive effect of traditional baking soda. Offers gentle whitening and can be used for as long as needed to give you that sparkling smile you desire. Made in France.

I know I'm taking a detour from my usual type of product, but as I was brushing my teeth in the morning, I realized that this is a beauty product I love and use all the time. I saw it in a fancy drugstore in Manhattan a while back and bought it on a whim. And it worked! My teeth gradually got whiter! And it also did an excellent job on plaque and tartar. Win/win. Now it won't replace a fast acting tooth-whitener, but it might eventually replace the need for one. My teeth not only got whiter, but they stayed that way.

This is definitely pricier than your average tube of toothpaste (about $9), but a big tube lasts a very long time. And right now you can get two for the price of one at the C.O. Bigelow website. You can also find it at Amazon, and the occasional high-end drugstore.
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Paul Mitchell and Grow Appalachia

Read about what Paul Mitchell is doing in honor of Earth Day…

Paul Mitchell Celebrates Earth Day 2010!

In honor of Earth Day 2010, Paul Mitchell will be partnering with the organization, Grow Appalachia, which helps mountain families plant and prepare healthy, organic food for themselves and their communities. Read on…

Paul Mitchell will donate $1 to Grow Appalachia for each haircut the 100 schools nationwide complete on Earth Day, April 22nd, 2010. Grow Appalachia is an organization initiated by Paul Mitchell CEO & Co-Founder, John Paul DeJoria and dedicated to helping mountain families plant a healthy future for their communities. Paul Mitchell believes in maintaining a healthy planet and healthy inhabitants. Grow Appalachia will provide families with skills and resources to grow organic, nutritious food, prepare and preserve food healthfully, empower them to share knowledge in the community, and develop local farmer’s markets to sell surplus food.
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Another Mascara Monday: FLIRT! It Curl Mascara (flirt)

Hello all – I hope you had a great weekend! Mine was a mix of social stuff, swatting out some errands, and a whole afternoon of unbelievable laziness. I even got caught up on both "Lost" and "The Office" (by the way, if you haven't seen the St. Patricks' episode of "The Office," you are in for some hilarity).

Of course, a mere two days of weekend was not nearly enough. So to ease the transition into the work week, I'm adding one more Mascara Monday installment. This one from FLIRT! Cosmetics.

It Curl Lash Curling Mascara

Blurb: Get 144% more curl and lift with this lash boosting curling mascara. Transforms lashes instantly with a unique curved brush for ooh la lashes. Colors: Bronze Belle, Bouffant Brown, and Bombshell Black

Every time I try something from FLIRT!, I'm impressed with the value and quality. This mascara is priced somewhere between drugstore and high-end department store, and the quality is excellent. I got great length and fabulous, cheeky, flirty curl! I also loved brush: wide enough to get lots on your lashes, but short enough to maneuver easily.

Another plus is that in addition to usual black and brown, there's a gorgeous bronze shade. If you have a fairer complexion and want a warmer color, Bronze Belle is perfect.

Take a look at the website. There's a lot of new stuff for spring. You can also check out the fun Experiment with Color section, and/or print out a Kohl's coupon. You can order online, or browse the beauty aisle at Kohls.

Happy Monday!
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Happy Hair Care Friday: Alterna Hemp with Organics Color Hold Repair Gloss (review)

Oh my goodness, it is finally Friday! Woo hoo! The longest week ever is over. (It wasn’t a bad week, just loooong for some reason.) Again…just felt the need to share.

A lot of really awesome hair care products have been coming my way lately, so I thought I’d spend a few Fridays discussing them here. The first Hair Care Friday item is from Alterna.

Hemp with Organics Color Hold Repair Gloss

Blurb: A hydrating finishing lotion that targets split ends and helps repair dry, damaged hair. Provides humidity resistance and a smooth, high shine finish while eliminating frizz and fly-aways. Patented Hemp Technology and Certified Organic Botanicals. Increases manageability and shine and strengthen hair to prevent damage before it happens. This enzyme based finishing product provides the perfect finish to smooth styles and tame unruly hair while reducing frizz & fly-always, without the harmful chemicals found in ordinary products. With: Color Hold®, Enyzmetherapy®, UVA/UVB Protection, Thermal Protection, Certified Organic Botanicals, Patented Hemp Technology, Biodegradable Formula, Recyclable Packaging. Without: Parabens, Gluten, Sulfates, Paraffin, Synthetic Color, DEA, TEA, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, PABA, No Animal Testing.

For the last couple of months I’ve been doing all kinds of new things to my naturally curly hair. In addition to my usual coloring; I’ve been blowing it out, flat ironing it and generally trying to find out how many different things it can do (answer: a lot). Needless to say I’m always on the look out for products that will make my hair look good, but also give it extra TLC.

This color gloss does a whole lot of good things. It provides nice, nurturing ingredients that protect my color, and make my hair happy, smoother and healthier without weighing it down. I liked using this on my curls as well as after a blowout. But it really shone (sorry) when I smoothed it on after using the flat iron. It gave my hair a soft, shiny, fly-away-free finish without activating any waves or curls.

If you’re familiar with this company, you already know that they have an enormous product selection. The website is pretty awesome (I suggest checking out the interactive Style Lounge, and Buzz sections.) Alterna can be found at Salons, and online at Beauty.com, and HairCareUSA.com.
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Don’t Wait! Urban Decay Friends & Family Sale!!!

Through April 19 – save 30% (you heard me) at Urban Decay's spectacular Friends & Family sale. Great stuff! 30% off!

Promotion Code: 1SFNF.

Go!
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Kim Kardashian to be the face of LipFusion

I should have posted this sooner, but check it out. Fusion just signed Kim Kardashian to be the face of Fusion Beauty Colorceuticals’ LipFusion franchise and new IllumiFill Line Filling Luminizer. Take a look…

Fusion Brands Inc. Signs Kim Kardashian
As The Face Of Fusion Beauty Colorceuticals’
Lipfusion Franchise And New Illumifill Line Filling Luminizer

Fusion Brands Inc., the parent company of FusionBeauty®, the international beauty brand that fuses breakthrough advances in dermatology, skincare ingredients and science with color to create multi-purpose colorceutical products that deliver immediate, virtual effects and actual long-term transformational results, has announced today that it has signed world-renowned beauty Kim Kardashian as the face of FusionBeauty Colorceuticals collection. Kardashian will represent the renowned LipFusion® franchise as well as the launch of the highly anticipated Illumifill Line Filling Luminizer™.

Her campaign with FusionBeauty will launch this spring with print advertisements in leading fashion and beauty publications as well as several in-store appearances on behalf of the brand at soon-to-be-announced locations around the United States.

“We are thrilled about this partnership,” states Caroline Pieper-Vogt, Chief Executive Officer of Fusion Brands Inc. “As a confident, passionate and driven woman, who is beautiful both inside and out, she perfectly embodies the brand and will be a source of inspiration and empowerment for all FusionBeauty women.”

“Fusion Beauty is a smart, sexy, forward-thinking company that continues to push the boundaries of the beauty industry,” says Kardashian. “I deeply admire them for their beauty innovations and commitment to philanthropy and I’m so excited to represent a brand that I have been a long time fan of.”

Kardashian first partnered with Fusion Brands this past October for the launch of their breakthrough long-term lip plumping gloss, Lipfusion Infatuation™. She hosted a hugely successful launch event at Sephora Hollywood where thousands of fans came out to have her sign the product and see her present a check on behalf of the brand to the Seven Bar Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises funds globally for microfinance institutes while creating awareness of the power and effectiveness of microfinance as a poverty alleviation tool for women.

Kim is a big fan of the LipFusion Capsule Collection because of its amazing charitable component. The "Luxe Boudoir" collection consists of four new vibrant LipFusion Color Shine glosses with shimmer effect to commemorate FusionBeauty and Seven Bar Foundation’s “Kiss Away Poverty” campaign where one dollar of every sale of LipFusion Color Shine, LipFusion Clear and LipFusion Infatuation glosses is donated to the organization to help empower women to get out of poverty through microfinance. (The “Luxe Boudoir” collection will be available at Sephora, Ulta, Dillards and other retailers nationwide retailing for $29 USD.)

About Fusion Brands Inc.: Fusion Brands Inc. is the parent company of international beauty brands FusionBeauty ColorCeuticals® and CLEAN. Founded in 2003, the company has established itself as a leader in innovative beauty by fusing breakthrough scientific technologies and ingredients with luxurious make-up, skincare, fragrance and bath & body products. These scientifically advanced products are sold in over 39 countries around the world, having gained an international following due to their effectiveness, innovation and broad consumer appeal. The FusionBeauty line-up includes LipFusion®, StimuLashFusion®, LashFusionXL®, as well as LiftFusion® and GlowFusion®. The CLEAN line of fragrances inspired by soap has expanded into a comprehensive lifestyle brand of bath, body and skincare products. For more information on Fusion Brands Inc., please visit www.fusionbrandsinc.com.
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Straight Up Thursday: Erno Laszlo BLUE Firmarine Treatment Bar (review)

Is it just me, or does it seem like Easter Sunday was about 5 years ago? Maybe it’s the weather or all the time off; but this week seems to have stretched on for-freakin-ever.

Just felt the need to share.

And now back to beauty business. I think my brain cells are melting in the heat because I seem to be at a loss for corny tie-ins. You’d think with words like “dish” and “bar” at my disposal, I could come up with something truly groan-worthy. But I can’t. You’ll just have to read a plain old straight up review today. Today’s straight up item is from Erno Laszlo.

Laszlo BLUE Firmarine Treatment Bar

Blurb: One smart soap: Laszlo Blue FIRMARINE Treatment Bar is a gentle cleansing bar that provides long term skin rejuvenation. Its unique delivery system releases ingredients gradually over time to ensure activity long after cleansing, strengthening skin’s barrier and allowing visibly firmer, smoother skin. Spirulina Maxima and Algae Extract to firm skin by helping cell renewal and improving skin’s texture. Vitamin C and E providing long lasting anti-oxidant protection. Glycerin, Soribtol and Palm Kernel to help hydration and retain moisture by binding water to the skin.

So I guess it’s good that I’m talking about a “smart soap” on a day when I’m feeling less than brainy. While I don’t think this soap is clever enough to balance your checkbook or pay your taxes; I do think that it's a pretty smart idea.

For one thing, I love the whole bar thing. I like the feel of it, I like that there’s less packaging, and I absolutely love it for travel (just cut off a piece and pack it up – it won't count as a liquid).

This cleanser is actually for skin that is dry to slightly oily; but my combination skin responded very well. I haven’t used it long enough to judge the long term effects; but I found that it did an excellent job of thoroughly cleansing my face, and leaving my skin clean, fresh and balanced. The scent is very nice too (fresh – neither masculine nor feminine).

Erno Laszlo has a stellar reputation in the skin care world. If you take a look at the website; you’ll see that their treatments address no fewer than seven skin types (from extremely dry to extremely oily). You can give yourself a free online skin analysis with the Laszlomatic (love that), or request a catalogue. Erno Laszlo can also be found at fine stores like Nordstrom, Dillard's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus.
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More Eye Liner Today: Maybelline Eye Studio™ Lasting Drama™ Gel Eyeliner (review)

Well it turns out that I did not have enough eyeliner time on Monday. Of course, the great thing about having my own blog is that I can just go on and on (and on) about things that interest me. Which happens to be eyeliner. Today. Again.

Here's one from Maybelline New York.

NEW Eye Studio™ Lasting Drama™ Gel Eyeliner (In "Plum")

Blurb: Only our oil-free formula can hold highly concentrated pigments in a clear gel base. So color is more intense and lines resist wear for 24 hours. Smudge-proof and Water-proof. The most intense line for lasting drama. Removes easily with soap and water or with Maybelline New York Expert Eyes Eye Makeup Remover Towelettes.

Besides the fabulous price (about $10), I was drawn to this liner because I went to a whole bunch of stores and they were sold out. So of course I had to get one. When I finally found a store with some in stock, I was pretty lucky to find it in a shade I don't have (Plum).

While the color isn't quite as saturated as some of the higher-end brands, it was pretty darn close. It went on easily, and there was a little bit of "smudge time" before it set. It looked great all day and came off really easily. I also liked the very subtle shimmer. And the brush that came with it was fabulous. I'm really impressed - this liner is an excellent value!

Other available colors are black, brown and grey. There's even a How-To Video. The website also has a bunch of other cool stuff. You can play with the Color Advisor, or enter a contest to win a walk-on role in a Broadway show.

Happy Wednesday!
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Glamorous! omit concealer from Julie Hewett Los Angeles

I need to admit that I'm feeling a bit less than glamorous right now. Other than my snappy haircut and blowout, there was not much beauty going on today. I spent all morning and afternoon running errands (and somehow they still aren’t all done). So I’m just going to move things along this evening and get right to the item of the day. (Item of the day brought to us by Julie Hewett Los Angeles.)

omit concealer

Blurb: created on set, this dreamy cream concealer contains arnica extract to wake-up, refresh & conceal tired, puffy eyes.

This concealer was originally only available in pencil form. It was just released in pan-form for spring. And I must say that the new packaging is dynamite. It’s a chic, flat, square little flip-top compact (with mirror) that closes securely, and is easily tucked away in your bag (or even the tiniest of jean pockets).

But packaging aside, there’s a reason this concealer is on the red carpet all the time. The formula is excellent. It goes on creamy and soft (no tugging in the eye area), then sets and stays put. What I especially love is that the coverage is buildable. If you need a little concealment, a quick one-layer swipe should do the trick. If you need a little more, let the first layer set, then add another.

Visit the website and check out a few of the other glamorous goodies. You can also visit the Which Red Are You? page as well as pick up some Red Carpet Beauty Tricks. Julie Hewett is also sold at Dermstore.com.
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Another Mascara Monday (With Bonus Eyeliner)! LASplash (review)

Hello everyone! I intended to spend a few Mondays featuring some cool mascaras; and then today I realized I was having a bit of eyeliner withdrawal. So I thought I'd just combine the two, and feature a bit of each from Splash Cosmetics.

Lash Splash Glitter Mascara (in "Abyss")

Blurb: Who doesn’t want thick, long and healthy lashes you can shed a tear or two in? Leap out of your shell and leave the ordinary to the “ordinary”. Dare to shine with all of the fun, bright and glitter colors we offer. Lash Splash Liquid Mascara thickens, lengthens, and nourishes to create astonishing lashes. Not to mention, lash splash mascara is created with a formula that is proven to be long-lasting and waterproof.

LA Splash has over 30 colors of mascara - whoa! I took the conservative road and chose “Abyss” (aka: black) because I wanted to see how the formula held up all day (and fuschia might not have gone over so well at work). I was not disappointed – the formula is great. My lashes were coated well, and I got very good lengthening. And the sparkle was super cool. Not overly glitzy, but enough to give a festive dewy shimmer to my eyes. It lasted all day and didn’t run when I dunked my head in the pool.

Glitter Eyeliner (in "Kryptonite" and "Electric")

Blurb: If only eyes could talk! What would yours say about you? All colors are smudge proof and water resistant for glamorous 12 hour wear.

There are almost 50 colors to choose from in the “glitter” category alone – yikes! When I brought them home I was not disappointed. For starters, the brush is very nice. I usually prefer a slightly shorter brush; but this one worked well (and a pair of scissors can always take care of too much length). Liquid liners (especially sparkly ones) take a steadier hand and I was glad to see that this had a bit of "adjustment time." (Meaning it took a minute or two to dry in case I needed to start over.) It went on smoothly, covered well and lasted all day. The two colors I tried were excellent. “Kryptonite” is a deep, forest green (almost black) with flecks of green glitter. It’s really beautiful and I got lots of compliments. “Electric” is a bright, beautiful awesome shade of sparkly turquoise. If you’re opting in to the turquoise trend that’s happening right; you may want to get a couple of these. Again, like the mascaras, the sparkle is just right.

I love that that both mascara and liners perform really well and are also reasonably priced (about $7 each). Which is great because they come in so many shades - so you can try out a whole slew of them without spending a fortune.

Visit the website, and take a look at more of the glittery, colorful fun. You can also find LA Splash at Cherry Culture and Ulta.

Happy Monday!
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Happy Blogiversary to Me…II! (review redux)

Yesterday was my one-year blog anniversary! I still can't believe it's been a whole year (plus one day). Another thanks to all of you for visiting (and for your nice emails yesterday).

To celebrate, I decided to spotlight a few things that really grabbed my attention during the last 12 months. Yesterday's and todays items are only a few. There just wasn't time (or room) to get to all of the standouts. But these few really have it going on!

Yesterday I featured sunscreen and makeup items. Today I'm focusing on skin care, bath & body, and hair care. I also kept the links, in case you want to read the original reviews. Enjoy!

Skin Care:

Comodynes Make-Up Remover Towelettes – Convenient, affordable and thoroughly effective!

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask – I use this every Saturday night. It removes every smidgen of everything from pores!

Olay Pro-X Eye Restoration Complex – The whole Pro-X line knocked my socks off, and the eye cream was especially fabulous

Dermalogica Oil Control Lotion – This is an excellent mattifier and shine controller, and it also contains salicylic acid to help fight breakouts

Bath & Body:

Borghese Splendide Mani Smoothing Hand Creme (SPF 8) – Besides being lovely and soothing, this hand cream even lasted through a handwashing!

Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Milk Crème – The scent of this crème is amazing! I get compliments all the time when I have it on. (It's available in hand crème, body crème, body wash and honey bath…yum.)

Trader Joe's Moisturizing Cream Shave (in Honey Mango) – Still the best shave cream I've ever tried. And the price can't be beat!

Salux Nylon Japanese Beauty Cloth – This item deserves an extra mention every chance I get. It's an inexpensive, durable, no-frills cloth that exfoliates like nothing else.

Hair Care

Remington Professional Hair Dryer – Excellent value, great design, and really easy to handle.

Privé Concept Vert Shampoo and Conditioner – I tried this because of its earth friendliness; but I keep coming back because it makes my hair soft, healthy and happy

Phyx Overnight Repair Masque – I put this on at night and woke up with new hair

I hope you've had as much fun re-visiting the last year as I have. I look forward to all the exciting, cool stuff yet to come!

Have a great weekend!
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Free Concert from Origins!

In addition to April being my blog-birthday month, it's also Earth Month. Check out all the amazing things that Origins has going on!

Origins Rocks Earth Month
FREE Concert Featuring Grammy Award-Winner Macy Gray To Benefit Origins Global Earth Initiatives

High-Performance Nature-based Skin Care Brand Furthers its Commitment to the Environment with Additional Programs for “Greening” the Planet

In celebration of Earth Month 2010 and Origins Earth Initiatives which support programs that help to sustain the planet, Origins will host its first annual Origins Rocks Earth Month Concert in NYC on April 19th. Fans are invited to the FREE star-studded concert at Webster Hall New York City located in Downtown Manhattan featuring Grammy Award-Winner Macy Gray. Origins has chosen to partner with Macy as her new single “Beauty In The World” captures the sentiment of Earth Month. The concert will also include performances by emerging artists Ryan Star and Jon McLaughlin and will be hosted by a special celebrity guest emcee.

“At Origins, we recognize the importance of environmental stewardship. Earth Month 2010 provides the perfect platform for Origins to reaffirm its commitment to giving back to Mother Nature, employing green practices and celebrating the planet,” announces Jane Lauder, General Manager/Senior Vice President, Origins. “Last year, through our Global Earth Initiative, Origins collected 7,500 pounds of empty cosmetic packaging to be recycled or responsibly converted to energy and planted nearly 24,000 trees. This year we are eager to further our green programs.”

One free concert ticket will be offered to those who bring at least one empty cosmetic package, regardless of brand, to Origins retail stores in NYC, Westchester and the Garden State Plaza Mall (no purchase necessary, while tickets last.) Ticket holders must arrive at Webster Hall New York City for first come first serve entry. Origins will collect all the packaging and recycle or responsibly convert it to energy through its Return to Origins Recycling Program.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the first annual Origins Rocks Earth Month Concert,” exclaims Macy Gray. “Origins is known for its industry-leading commitment to the people and the planet. I am proud to be partnering with a brand that aligns with my beliefs of planting trees and cleaning up the earth for future generations.”

RETURN TO ORIGINS RECYCLING PROGRAM
Earth Month 2009 marked the launch of the Origins Recycling Program, a first-of-its-kind national cosmetics recycling initiative. Origins leads the industry-wide campaign by providing customers a place to drop off their empty cosmetic packaging including bottles, tubes, jars, caps and compacts regardless of brand to any Origins retail store or department store counter. Origins will then submit the packaging to be recycled or responsibly converted to energy.

According to The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, everyday packaging accounts for approximately 1/3 of all landfill waste. In an effort to continue Origins commitment to protecting the earth and its resources, Origins decided to tackle this problem head on and launch the Return to Origins Recycling Program. As a thank you for participating, Origins offers consumers a free product sample of their choice.

“At Origins, we take great pride in the fact that our brand pioneered many of the earth-friendly manufacturing and packaging practices that have now become industry standards,” explains Lauder. “The Return to Origins Recycling Program is an example of how we can proactively promote sustainability within our communities, and we hope to encourage other brands in our industry to develop and implement similar programs.”

PLANT-A-TREE CAMPAIGN
To further its Global Plant-A-Tree Campaign, Origins will plant a tree on behalf of each concert attendee through its partners Global ReLeaf™. Did you know that just one tree provides oxygen for up to four people per day?

In 2009, Origins launched its Plant-A-Tree Campaign in partnership with American Forests’ Global ReLeaf™; an education and action program that helps individuals, agencies and corporations improve the local and global environment by planting and caring for trees. Since the launch of this successful campaign, Origins has aided reforestation projects globally by helping to plant more than 23,000 trees around the world. In addition to planting a tree for each concert attendee, from April 18th to 30th, Origins will plant a tree in honor of each customer who purchases the NEW A Perfect World™ SPF 25 Age-defense moisturizer with White Tea or current moisturizer.

EARTH-FRIENDLY SINCE 1990
Since its inception, beginning with its iconic double-tree logo, Origins commitment to the planet and people who populate it began when the brand was born in 1990. Origins believes that reducing pollution means increasing efficiency and wasting fewer resources. Thus, Origins manufactures its products using a combination of renewable resources, wind energy, earth-friendly practices. All Origins printed materials are printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks. Cartons are made from 50% Forest Stewardship Council certified paperboard and 50% post-consumer recycled fiber. These paperboards and cartons are manufactured using wind power or hydro power, both renewable energy resources. Origins manufacturing facilities have instituted Environmental Management Systems that comply with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). They are designed to improve its environmental performance and avoid or reduce adverse environmental impacts over time.

PARTNERSHIP WITH COMMUNITY ENERGY INC.
Taking this dedication one step further, Origins continues its partnership with Community Energy Inc. to purchase wind generated power to offset electricity used when manufacturing Origins products in company-owned facilities and when third parties manufacture the Origins Organics™ collection. By purchasing wind power for the retail stores, Origins will use less grid electricity and achieve a carbon dioxide deduction. And, by helping to fund the building of additional turbines with Community Energy to supply electricity to Origins manufacturing operations, Origins will achieve an additional reduction in CO2 emissions. These reductions culminate in the equivalent of 2,800 acres of pine forest which is more than three times the size of Central Park.

STORES
Origins is available at select department and specialty stores, as well as in its own free-standing retail stores and at www.ORIGINS.com

ABOUT ORIGINS
Our mission at Origins is to create high-performance natural skin care that is powered by nature and proven by science. We use potent plants, organic ingredients, and 100% natural essential oils. And our long-standing commitment to protect the planet, its resources and all those who populate it is reaffirmed by our earth and animal friendly practices, packaging and policies. Introduced in the United States in 1990, Origins launched internationally in 1991. It is currently sold in Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Kingdom.

ABOUT MACY GRAY
Macy Gray first burst onto the music scene with the massive hit single “I Try". 15,000,000 album sales later, the Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter reconnects with the essence of her creative gifts on her first album in more than 3 years entitled The Sellout, available from Concord Records on June 22nd. Sparkling melodies and personal lyrical insights dazzle throughout The Sellout, including the album's joyous first single and video "Beauty In The World." Perhaps Macy's most fully realized project, it's an authentic and confidently delivered statement from one of contemporary music’s most skillful and creative forces.

ABOUT RYAN STAR
Mark Burnett Records/Atlantic recording artist Ryan Star will be releasing his debut album "11:59" this summer, which features the hit single "Breathe," currently charting at Hot AC radio nationwide. The truly provocative companion video made its premiere on CNN.com and sees Star addressing the rising tide of unemployment in the US, performing on the streets of New York among various real people, from all walks of life, who are currently unemployed. A committed road warrior, Star is currently on tour alongside Serena Ryder.

ABOUT JON MCLAUGHLIN
Singer/songwriter/pianist Jon McLaughlin is an Island recording artist whose releases OK Now, featuring the hit single “Beating My Heart”, and Indiana have driven the Anderson, IN native to much success and acclaim over the course of his short career. Perhaps most notably, Jon was featured in the Oscar-nominated Disney film Enchanted performing the Oscar-nominated song “So Close” which he also performed live on the 80th Annual Academy Awards telecast. No stranger to the road, Jon has toured extensively on his own as well as with the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Colbie Caillat, Duffy and OneRepublic. Currently, Jon is preparing to record his third release on Island.

Origins products are formulated WITHOUT:
Parabens ● Phthalates ● Propylene Glycol ● Mineral Oil ● PABA ● Petrolatum
Paraffin ● DEA ● Animal Ingredients (except cruelty-free honey and beeswax)
Origins tests its products on volunteer panels. For more information visit: www.origins.com.
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Feelin' The Love: NEW Summer Awesomeness from Urban Decay

Be still my beating heart! There are no words. Just look at it all. Then look at it again. Then try not to be in my way as I make another mad dash to a UD counter…

It’s all about making love this summer!

From our sexy Summer of Love Shadow Palette to the cheeky guys on our NEW Pocket Rocket Lip Glosses, you just might be inspired to host a love-in!

This summer, we gave free reign to our rebellious side. (Actually, when don’t we?) We were inspired to create a psychedelic offering of colors that made us feel…well, just plain BEAUTIFUL, man.

And while we can’t give you the summer off to dance barefoot and experiment with happy pills…we can give you that lovin’ feelin’ all season with a little help from your friends.

Summer of Love Eyeshadow Palette

Summer of Love Nail Kit

New Pocket Rocket Colors

24/7 pencil in Eldorado, our new golden girl!

Urban Defense Tinted Moisturizers. 20 SFP AND Paraben Free.

Setting Sprays by Skindinavia for Urban Decay! AMAZING formulas that keep your makeup on through all those summer music festivals, sweaty subway rides and days at the beach!!!!

DeSlick in a Tube. Your favorite mattifying product, now in a gel form!
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Smooth Move, Remington: New Epilation Kit

Oh yeah! Check out the new epilation kit from Remington…

Smooth & Silky
2-In-1 Complete Epilation Kit

Remington makes hair removal a cinch in time for mini-skirt season with the new Smooth & Silky 2-in-1 Complete Epilation Kit. This easy-to-use epilator leaves skin silky smooth for up to six weeks with interchangeable full-size and precision epilator heads (for full body hair removal) and two exclusive technologies that provide a pleasant and simple hair removal method. The best part? It removes hair as short as 1/5 inch, so skin will be smooth and silky all summer long.

• new moisturizing technology infused into the rollers releases a conditioner, hydrating skin as hair is removed

• twin tweezer system doubles the chance of grabbing hairs on the first try, and along with the W shaped rollers make the experience more comfortable

Additional features include:

• body curve design for easy navigation
• two speed settings for ultimate control
• cord/cordless rechargeable operation

Available: Target locations across the U.S. and Walmart in Canada
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NEW Skincare from Estée Lauder

Take a look at the newest from Estée Lauder…

Estée Lauder introduces two NEW skincare products!
Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Cremes and Lotion & Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler

Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Cremes and Lotion:

We are excited to share with you our most hydrating moisturizers ever. Estée Lauder’s Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Crèmes and Lotion immediately replenish dehydrated skin and infuse moisture that lasts 24 hours to keep skin quenched and glowing. Overtime, skin retains and sustains its own natural moisture for a younger, healthier look. Available in four formulas, there is now a hydration solution for everyone:

- Crème for Dry Skin
- Crème for Normal/Combination Skin
- Lotion for Normal/Combination Skin
- Crème for Normal/Combination Skin with SPF 15

Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler

Estée Lauder research has found that environmental pollution, stress, even talking, frowning and laughing all cause an increase in the visible depth of lines and wrinkles and have created a innovative solution…

The Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler is the newest addition to the Perfectionist skincare line. This tiny, pen-like tube holds a concentrated treatment that instantly reduces the look of smile lines, crows feet and deep creases around the forehead, brows, and eyes and dramatically blurs the appearance of lip lines to hold back lipstick feathering for up to 8 hours.

With continued use, skin becomes firmer, lines are blurred and deep wrinkles appear less noticeable for a younger and smoother look. The Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler also features a unique precision-accurate applicator to provide gentle and controlled dispensing directly to your skin where you need it the most. And its convenient portable package is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups whenever and wherever you need it.

Ditch your Dermatologist, take a break from injections and fillers and test the new groundbreaking technology from Estée Lauder. Lines don’t lie – take the test: Apply to the deep lines and creases on the palm of your hand and watch as wrinkles disappear!

Hydrationist Maximum Moisture Crèmes and Lotion, and the Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler are available at all Estée Lauder counters nationwide and www.esteelauder.com.
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35% Off On the Xen-Tan Collection on April 8 (and a chance to win)

I'm ready for short dresses and sandals, but I don't think my ghostly-pale legs are yet. Need help too? I just got some info about a great promotion on April 8. Start reading…

Xen-Tan Premium Sunless Tan

It’s time to break out the floral miniskirts and cut out bikinis! Get your skin ready for the season where we bare it all with Xen-Tan Premium Sunless Tan. On April 8th, Xen-Tan will be offering consumers 35% off the entire line of products this one day only. And that’s not all! Become a fan on Facebook and enter to win your chance to covet one of five blinged out Perfect Bronze compacts celebs like Leighton Meister, Ashley Tisdale and Tori Spelling recently received. Contest will close May 1st, just in time for a last minute Mother’s Day gift!

For the 35% discount, visit www.Xen-Tan.com and enter code “xentansweeps” at check out.

Become a fan on Facebook here http://bit.ly/aRNrZA for your chance to win a blingin’ bronzer!

Celebs who were gifted with Xen-Tan’s Swarovski-encrusted Perfect Bronze compact:

AnnaLynne McCord Ashley Olsen Ashley Tisdale Blake Lively Britney Spears Carrie Underwood Christina Aguilera Cindy Crawford Fergi Giuliana Rancic Jessica Alba Kelly Ripa Khloe Kardashian Kourtney Kardashian Kim Kardashian Lady Gaga Leighton Meester Mary Kate Olsen Michelle Trachtenberg Nicole Richie Rachel Bilson Rachel Zoe Samantha Harris Scarlett Johansson Taylor Swift Tori Spelling Vanessa Hudgens Victoria Beckham Jessica Simpson Mariah Carey
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The Kohdo Wood Collection from Jo Malone

Wowee... check out the Kohdo Wood Collection...

Introducing The Kohdo Wood Collection

Lotus Blossom & Water Lily
Dark Amber & Ginger Lily

The World of Jo Malone™ introduces the Kohdo Wood Collection, two captivating fragrances created as a modern interpretation of Kohdo, the ancient Japanese art of incense appreciation. Two scents, each reflecting the spirit of a particular time of day, envelop the wearer in fragrant ceremony.

Welcoming the daytime, vibrant Lotus Blossom & Water Lily is designed to wake the senses and energise the soul. Beautifully sensual and calming, Dark Amber & Ginger Lily encourages a sense of tranquillity as day turns to night.

Created to inspire the senses, the Kohdo Wood Collection takes the wearer beyond the
Kohdo incense ceremony and into his or her own dawn and dusk moments.

Lotus Blossom & Water Lily

Lotus Blossom & Water Lily’s blend of mandarin, sacred lotus blossom, bamboo and aloeswood, encourages energy, inspires confidence and focuses the mind, making it the ideal scent to use during the day. Mandarin is vibrant and lively in nature. Referred to as the little heart of the sun, it is thought to shed light on the drudgeries of the everyday and encourage a sense of joy. The nature of the sacred lotus blossom is serene and spiritual, representing the dawning of a new day. Bamboo offers strength and grace, a symbol of longevity and the path towards enlightenment, while aloeswood, whose character is refined and rich, is believed to impart both mental and physical benefits to balance the mind and body.

Lotus Blossom & Water Lily can be worn alone or combined with Dark Amber & Ginger Lily to create an intoxicating scent.

Dark Amber & Ginger Lily

Dark Amber & Ginger Lily’s combination of cardamom, orchid and kyara wood is designed to cleanse the senses and encourage calmness, relaxation and positive thought, making it the perfect scent to use from early evening into the night. Originally used as a perfume in ancient times, black cardamom is aromatic and smoky in nature with an air of
unmistakably clean sensuality. The orchid, a magnificent flower, carries a universal message of beauty and wisdom. As a base for incense, kyara wood is held in the highest regard and is prized for its rarity and richness. With its deep, dark and rich nature, kyara wood has a resinous, relaxing aura, appropriate for meditation. An exotic and exquisite combination, this dark and sensual mix of ingredients embodies the essence of evening.

Dark Amber & Ginger Lily, can be worn alone or with Lotus Blossom & Water Lily to create an intoxicating scent.

Limited edition. Available April 2010 at Jo Malone Shops, www.jomalone.com, specialty stores including Bergdorf Goodman, select Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide. Available exclusively at Holt Renfrew in Canada.
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30 Is Something! Paul Mitchell Celebration

Celebrate 30 With A Paul Mitchell Stylist!

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LA Girls: More Awesomely Chic Fekkai

The last So Chic So Fekkai event will take place Friday April 9, 2010 from 9AM to 6PM. Check out the invite below…

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FLIRT! (and Tweet)

FLIRT! Cosmetics is now on Twitter!

Follow @FLIRTItGirl, a beauty and style insider at FLIRT! Cosmetics, for the latest in FLIRT! News, beauty, style and more!

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