Thursday, April 29, 2010

Arriving in Stores on Monday! Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair

Ever since Fashion Week, everyone has been waiting for Aveda's new product to hit the shelves. And it will be here on...Monday! Take a look…

Aveda introduces Damage Remedy™ Daily Hair Repair

Aveda introduces Damage Remedy™ Daily Hair Repair, a high performance, plant-powered daily leave-in treatment that instantly repairs damage and helps protect hair from heat styling.

• Clinically proven to instantly repair damage by 26%

• Detangles to protect hair from breakage and further damage

• Helps protect from heat styling

• Creates a healthy foundation for styling

• Safe for color-treated hair

Key Ingredients:
• Organically-derived quinoa protein, sustainably sourced from Peru, penetrates the hair shaft to instantly repair damaged hair

• Wheat protein helps protect hair against thermal damage during heat styling

• Soy-derived oil detangles hair to protect from breakage during combing

• Features an uplifting aroma derived from the certified organic essential oils of bergamot, mandarin, and ylang ylang.

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LA Girls - Amazing Event! Beauty Collection Grand Opening!

For all of you in the LA area, here is a fantastic event. Beauty Collection will be opening their new West Hollywood store on Saturday. This event features top beauty brand founders, makeovers, complimentary hairstyling, headshots, beauty bags and more! Check it out and get there any way you can!

Beauty Collection Celebrates Grand Opening Event For New West Hollywood Location



(A portion of sales made during the event will be matched in product donations to The Beauty Bus Foundation)

Beauty Collection, Los Angeles’ premier retailer of prestige beauty products, is pleased to announce the Grand Opening of its newest location in West Hollywood. Beauty Collection West Hollywood provides a beauty oasis featuring over 200 prestige beauty brands and 30,000 unique products.

8951 Santa Monica Boulevard at Robertson Boulevard
Saturday, May 1st from 3:00– 7:00pm


As guests tour the new store, they will have the opportunity to meet the founders of top beauty brands such as:
- Dr. Norman Leaf and Rand Rusher of
Leaf & Rusher
- Scott-Vincent Borba of
BORBA
- Dana B. Myers of Booty Parlor
- Jessica Kernochan of LaLicious
- Sara Happ of Sara Happ
- Michelle Olson of
‘Tini Beauty
- Ole Henriksen of Ole Henriksen
- Shari Creed of SweetSpot Labs

Additionally, a special “Paparazzi-Ready Event” will provide guests with:
- Complimentary hairstyling courtesy of
BLOW
- Makeovers by top artists from Smashbox, Stila, Sue Devitt and Jane Iredale
- Headshots to capture their new look

Plus:
- The first fifty guests will receive a special “door-buster” beauty bag
- Complimentary beauty bags for all guests
- Refreshments will be served

One of the founders of
The Beauty Bus Foundation will be at the event to talk about the work of the organization. The Beauty Bus Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for home-bound, terminally or chronically ill patients and their primary caregivers by providing them with in-home beauty and grooming treatments free of charge. In honor of the opening, a portion of sales made during the Beauty Collection event will be matched in product donations to The Beauty Bus Foundation

Beauty Collection opened its first store in 1997 and has locations in
Calabasas, Malibu, and West Hollywood. Beauty Collection is also available worldwide at www.beautycollection.com.
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Extra Long Awesomeness: Remington Extra-Long Ceramic Straightener

Check out the new extra long straightener from Remington. All the great Remington quality, and it's 50% longer!

Go The Distance For Speedy Style

The do-it-all modern day gal has a lot on her plate – that’s why Remington is making styling faster and easier with five inch plates (50% longer than other leading flat irons) on the NEW Extra-Long Ceramic Straightener. The style-forward iron features floating plates for a more effective glide over hair, 30 second heat up time and one hour auto-shutoff, proving that when it comes to time, size does matter.

Additional features include:

• Anti-static technology that reduces static charges responsible for unruly hair by attracting “-“ and “+” charged particles to create a balance among tresses, diminishing frizz and flyaways while boosting style control

• Thin and thick hair type settings for customizable styling

• 30 variable heat settings 410° salon high heat

• Swivel cord and travel lock

The Remington Extra-Long Ceramic Straightener is available at Target and Walmart stores for a suggested retail price of $24.99.
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Atlanta Curly Girls: Get Pretty with Urbanbella

Check it out (and RSVP for a Phyto hair and scalp analysis)!

the curly, kinky, wavy hair apothecary and salon
141 W. Wieuca Rd NE, Suite 202 A
Atlanta, GA 30342
404.255.5022
http://www.urbanbella.com/

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Instant Gratification: Origins GinZing™ Refreshing Eye Cream (review)

Didn't I just review an Origins product? (Answer: yes I did.) So why am I doing it again? Because I feel like talking about eye cream today. Because I stayed up too late, ate salty snacks, and needed de-puffing in a big way. And because Origins makes awesome, blog-worthy things.

GinZing™ Refreshing eye cream to brighten and depuff

Blurb: Like a shot of expresso for tired eyes. 86% brighter appearance. 80% reduction in puffiness. Late night? Long flight? Look tired all the time? Prepare to become one of the perky people! Nature’s clinically-proven morning-after eye cream instantly reduces dark circles. Unsightly bags and puffiness virtually disappear. And Origins proprietary complex of Caffeine from Coffee bean, Panax Ginseng, Magnolia Extract and natural optic brighteners rapidly wakes up, refreshes and restores radiance to tired eyes.

The woman at the Origins counter told me that this cream flies off the shelves. And I certainly understand why - it just plain works. Somehow the combination of good-for-you, good-for-the-planet ingredients makes my eyes look all better in the morning. Instantly. It absorbs right after applying; and I can feel a faint tingle while it goes to work. In a few minutes, the puffiness is decreased and everything looks so much prettier. There's also a faint shimmer in the cream which adds a bit of instant assistance. It's a lightweight formula; yet it keeps the eye area hydrated all day. And over the past couple of weeks, I've noticed a definite reduction in dark circles. Call me gratified!

There's never a bad time to visit the website; but it's an especially good time to snap up their Nature's Body Treat offer (a cute tote plus 3 Bath & Body Treats for $30). You may also want to browse the rest of the gift section and see about picking out something for Mothers' Day.

Happy Wednesday!
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Tuesday, April 27, 2010

I Accept: Sally Hansen Diamond Strength in "Pink Proposal"

Sadly, no one has proposed to me today; but since I'm going somewhere fun tonight, maybe I'll at least end up with a proposition or two. (Uh oh…did I just say that out loud?)

While I'm hauling my mind out of the gutter; take a look at my favorite new lovely, pristine, wide-eyed, innocent new color from Sally Hansen.

Diamond Strength No-Chip Nail Color (in "Pink Proposal")

Blurb: Micro-Diamond Formula instantly bonds to nails with a diamond-hard protective shield to help stop breaking. Instantly bonds with nails to provide a shatterproof, diamond hard protective coating that virtually ends splitting, cracking and peeling. Light-refractive diamond particles go beyond ordinary lacquer to produce a multi-dimensional faceted shine. Long-lasting color is chip-resistant, fade-resistant and waterproof. Available in 36 shiny shades. Toluene, DBP, and Formaldehyde free. Exclusive micro-diamond formula guarantees a brilliant, multi-faceted shine!

This is the lightest, loveliest, flattering frosty pink. It's fresh, delicate and just plain pretty. And right along with this fragile, dainty shade is Sally Hansen's super strong, super shiny formula that dries well and really lasts. Sweet yet Mighty!

Take a look at the website to see some of the other fab Diamond Shine shades. You may also want to take a look at the Color That Cares program to learn about and/or support the fight against leukemia. (You can even register as a bone marrow donor.) You can find Sally Hansen at your nearest drugstore, grocery store, Target, Ulta, Shopping.com, or Drugstore.com.

Happy Tuesday!
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Watch, Learn and Help: Jergens® Get the Glow Video

Check out Jergens® Get the Glow video. You'll learn about how to get a natural glow safely; and Jergens will make a $1 donation to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Pass it on and get your friends to watch too!

Watch now by clicking here.

Get “In the Glow” with Jane Krakowski, Jergens® Skincare and The Skin Cancer Foundation

Here's a friendly reminder about the safe way to get a natural-looking glow. Want sun-kissed color without the consequences? The experts at Jergens® Skincare know you don’t want to give up the glow. That’s why the Jergens® Skincare Experts have teamed up with The Skin Cancer Foundation and Jane Krakowski to remind women to get their glow the healthy way this season.

To remind sun worshippers to trade in their tanning routines for a healthy glow, the Jergens® Skincare Team and The Skin Cancer Foundation enlisted award-winning actress and singer Jane Krakowski to spread the word. In a new video, Jane is divulging how she gets beautiful, natural-looking color with Jergens® natural glow moisturizers and is encouraging everyone who views her message to pass it on to someone who needs to get “in the glow” about the smart, safe way to get gorgeous color.

Each time the video is viewed from now until August 31, 2010, Jergens® Skincare Team will make a $1 donation* to The Skin Cancer Foundation. When you remind your friends and family to glow the safe way this summer, you’ll be helping save others’ skin, too.

“Even though we all know the facts, it’s hard to resist the lure of a tan,” says Jane Krakowski. “With this video, I’m hoping to pass on that reminder to women and steer them toward a safe option like Jergens® natural glow moisturizers.”

“Given what we know about the effects of sun exposure, tanning is just not worth the risk,” says Dr. Sapna Westley, Consulting Dermatologist for Kao Brands Company. “I recommend Jergens® natural glow Daily Moisturizers as a safe, healthy alternative—the formulas offer the natural-looking color women want without the harmful side effects.”

To get a glow the healthy way this summer, try Jergens® natural glow REVITALIZING Daily Moisturizer. The newly upgraded formula delivers healthy, gradual color that lasts two times longer** with a powerful blend of antioxidants and Vitamin E. For a luminous, glowing complexion, try Jergens® natural glow HEALTHY COMPLEXION Daily Facial Moisturizer, specifically formulated for the face. Developed with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 20 protection, the dermatologist-tested, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer helps prevent premature aging and protects against future damage as it delivers natural-looking color after several applications.

*Jergens® Skincare will donate $1 per view, with a maximum donation of $20,000. Campaign runs from March 19, 2010 – August 31, 2010.

** Than the leading lotion sunless tanner

About The Skin Cancer Foundation
The Skin Cancer Foundation is committed to educating the public and medical professionals about sun safety. As leaders in the fight against skin cancer, the Foundation is the only global organization solely devoted to the prevention, detection and treatment of the world’s most common cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research. To learn more about the Foundation and its programs, visit
www.skincancer.org.
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Great Big Spectacular Lorac Sale On Hautelook.Com!

Fire up the keyboard and head over to Hautelook for the big Lorac Sale (today through Thursday morning only)! Mind-boggling!

Get Your Favorite Red Carpet Makeup Essentials
Hand-Picked From Celebrity Makeup Artist, Carol Shaw


Available for up to 80% off the Original Retail Price for a limited time only!

Sale will begin 4/27 at 8am PDT and end on 4/29 at 11am PDT

Items Include:
- Single Eye Shadows
- Lipsticks
- Lip Gloss Sets
- Palettes
- Gloss Sticks
- On Screen Duo (Cream Eye Shadow / Liner W/ Highlighter)
- Loose Metallic Eye Shadow (Glam Rocks)

Be sure to take advantage of this great offer while you can!

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Ooooh…Shiny! Bobbi Brown Treatment Lip Shine

12 new shades! Take a look...

Out of Love with Your Lipstick?
Give Us 5 Minutes. We’ll Find Your New Crush.


Bobbi’s Treatment Lip Shine SPF 15 is a lightweight, soft shine lipstick that doubles as a rejuvenating treatment. It instantly comforts dry, chapped lips and provides long-term moisturization with natural Cocoa and Shea Butters, Jojoba, Apricot Kernel and Avocado oils. Peptides, along with Vitamin C and Paracress, stimulate collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while SPF 15 helps prevent future sun damage.

The result— Lips are healthier, smoother, softer and protected.

Available in 12 NEW shades from Bobbi Brown counters and
www.bobbibrown.com.

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Tuscan Style: Villa Di Borghese

Look at the yummy pampering products from Borghese. If you want to take a closer look, visit them at www.borghese.com. And don't forget to check out the great gift sets for Mothers' Day!


Monday, April 26, 2010

Green-Eyed (Beauty) Monster (quick review/redux)

My weekend was wonderful! I feel renewed!

And, oh my goodness today is hectic!

I had actually planned to spotlight these items last week (what with it being Earth Week and all); but I got sidetracked by other ideas and items. So while it's still Spring, still Earth Month, and I'm still feeling renewed; I thought I'd share a few of my favorite green eye-tems (uh oh, cracked myself up again).

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

To keep the delicate skin around your eyes soft and pretty. This is a wonderful, soothing hydrating eye treatment (and yes, it's green).

Almay Intense i-Color Mascara (in "Black Emerald")

This is more of a greenish-black. But I wanted to include something from the mascara category. Almay has a great formula; and for those of you who are sensitive, it's nice to have something other than plain old black.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (in "Mildew")

This is one of their new colors. It's a lovely forest green with gold flecks. My other UD green favorites are "Covet" (peacock green), and "Stash" (er…Oregano).

LASplash Glitter Eyeliner (in "Kryptonite")

I couldn't find a solo image, but it's the one in the middle. “Kryptonite” is a deep, forest green (almost black) with flecks of green glitter. They also make a gorgeous Lid Splash.

Stila Smudge Pot (in "Jade")

This olive green with glints of gold looks amazing as both a liner and a cream shadow. And the creamy, long-lasting formula is one of the best.

Dior 5 Color Palette (in "Mystic Jade")

I got one of these last year and used it all the time. There's a pale green, a deep olive, and an irridiscent brownish green complemented by a peach and a blue shadow. It's absolutely amazing for spring.

Stila Eye Shadow Pans (In "Cha Cha")

A delicate, pale, seafoam green. Looks great with my dark brown eyes; but I think this is another universally flattering color.

This idea isn't entirely off the wall and frivolous. Green is actually a very flattering and versatile shade, and it's perfect for spring.

Must...rush...Happy Monday!
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Friday, April 23, 2010

Hair Care Friday (and much more!): Melvita Organic Argan Oil (review)

My horoscope this week was especially awesome (thank you, Free Will Astrology!). In addition to Rob Breszny's stellar upbeat writing, I got four "affirmations" to keep me on track for a while. My two favorites were #1 and #4:

#1 I am cultivating Relaxed Alertness, because that will make me receptive to high-quality clues about how to proceed.

#4 I am practicing Serene Debauchery, because if I'm not manically obsessed with looking for opportunities to cut loose, those opportunities will present themselves to me with grace and frequency.


Ooooh! How cool is that – relaxed alertness and serene debauchery? Do I really need anything else? (Answer: probably, but who cares.)

Horoscopes are one of my favorite guilty pleasures. My dearest friend and I send them to each other every week. Maybe I should say that superstition in general is a guilty pleasure of mine. Not only do I read horoscopes, but I also knock on wood and "unjinx" things.* What makes a pleasure "guilty?" Hmmm…I think it's when your rational brain, your upbringing, and/or your mom tell you it's something you shouldn't like; but you like it anyway. You really, really like it! Other guilty pleasures scheduled for the weekend (that I can tell you about) include: pizza, pepsi (with both caffeine and sugar), blowing off singing practice, going online too much, and spending Sunday in my pajamas watching as much TV as I want.

Anyhoo…since I'm indulging in guilty pleasures, I should probably talk about at least one non-guilty one. Howzabout a little something from Melvita Organic Cosmetics?

Argan Oil

Blurb: A true regenerator, Argan oil is often used as a moisturizer for dry skin and as a smoother in damaged hair. A real ‘beauty secret’ for Berber women, the oil is made from un-roasted argan kernels; it is also traditionally used for massaging joints and for nail and hair care. Processing is done through an Aunarha women's co-operative in Essaouira. Melvita complies with all ethical criteria for fair trade: fair prices when purchasing raw materials, preservation of biodeversity in the environment, as well as responsible farming. Melvita guarantee: First cold-pressed organic oil. Colorant and preservative-free.

Besides making lovely things, Melvita also makes a commitment to natural products (no paraffin, silicone, PEG, PPG, parabens, formaldehyde, synthetic fragrances/colors, diethyl phthalate, etc.). Their certified organic products are made to exceed ECOCERT France standards; and their commitment to excellence includes extensive and methodical testing to ensure the very best quality.

I thought the Argan Oil made a wonderful moisturizer (especially for delicate areas like the neck and décolletage). It absorbed quickly, felt wonderful and lasted. But I fell in crazy freaky love with this as a hair treatment! A few drops and my curly hair suddenly became shiny and manageable. My hair was downright - dare I say it? - compliant. I can't wait to see how this works with a blowout or my flatiron. (Or as a softener on my elbows and heels.)

I've only had the bottle since Wednesday; but I have plans. Right along with my plans to receive "high quality clues about how to proceed" (refer to affirmation #1).

For more non-guilty pleasures, take a look at the website and browse all the fine products (both the skincare and the amazing organic honeys). You can also send a Take Good Care of Nature E-Card or visit the Do Your Share area to become a member of one of their online communities.

* An example of "unjinxing": I have a lovely coffee/lunch planned for tomorrow. I've been waiting impatiently and want everything to be wonderful. But now I'm worried that my expectations are too high. What to do? Unjinxing to the rescue! All I have to do is say things like, "The lunch will go horribly - there will be awkward silences and/or bitter disagreements." Or, "Wild dogs will chase me through the parking lot." Or, the always popular, "Storms will rage, war will break out, life as we know will cease to exist and I will be several minutes late." See? Easy peasy.

Goodbye for now – I wish us all a terrible Friday and a perfectly hideous weekend!
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Earth Day Offer from DuWop – 30% Off Pure Venom

Here's another offer in honor of Earth Day. From now through Thursday, you can try DuWop's all natural, vegan, 90% organic, 100% recyclable version of Pure Venom and save 30%. (Enter code: EARTH at checkout.)

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30% Vincent Longo Friends & Family Discount!

It isn't in honor of Earth Day, but you can still celebrate April Beauty (just call it Earth Month in your head) with a fab discount from Vincent Longo. (Use promocode: VFLIRT.)


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Thursday, April 22, 2010

Earth Day Combinations: Origins Checks and Balances™ Frothy Face Wash (review and free offer alert!)

Warning: I'm feeling all wordy again today. I'm having dual impulses: one part of me wants to sit quietly and let life unfold; and the other part wants to describe it in excruciating detail. (Don't panic, I won't. At least not here.)

I've always been fascinated by duality - two seemingly opposite things existing side by side. Sometimes it creates terrible stress and conflict; but often the contradictions complement each other, and create something harmonious and magical. (Remember…I'm an opera singer. They force us to think that way.)

I could go on all day about the dual forces that shape our lives; but I'll use Earth Day as an example (since it actually applies to my blog). Here I am writing about Earth-friendliness and natural products; yet my haircolor comes from a bottle (okay, several bottles). And in honor of Earth Day, my eyelids are a shade of olive green that no human was ever born with. But somehow it all kind of works. My brain can hold on to sweeping ideas about sustainability, renewal, stewardship and reverence for the Earth and its creatures; while at the very same time, I can take absolute delight in a few small tubes and jars that make me feel beautiful and vibrant.

And if you happen to be waiting for a far-reaching, cheesy tie-in today; you have come to the right place. Because in addition to all of the high falutin' ying/yang forces and concepts, there's the in-your-face (literally) reality of…combination skin. Mine. And quite possibly yours. Here to make sense of things: Origins

Checks and Balances™ Frothy face wash

Blurb: When it comes to faces with dry and oily places, it takes a clever cleanser to balance the two. This gentle, frothy face wash carefully does both jobs without canceling each other out. Broad Leaf Kelp Extract discourages excess oil production, while Wheat Protein balances and protects dry prone zones. And Tourmaline actually makes water wetter to more easily disperse dirt and sebum down the drain. There’s also aromatic Bergamot, Spearmint and Lavender to add pleasure to the process. Skin feels comfortably refreshed after cleansing, never tight, pulled or parched.

I am never disappointed when I try anything from Origins. Not only are they kind to the earth and its inhabitants, they're extremely kind to my skin. The woman at the Origins counter told me I would love this Face Wash, and she was right. It cleans extremely well, feels wonderful while I'm using it, and leaves my face feeling smooth, soft, and calm. The dry parts get soothed and the oily parts are clean and fresh. I could see this being fabulous for any skin type, but it's a godsend for combination complexions.

Right now, the website is the place to be. Because today only, you can get this cleanser for free with your $30 online order (Enter code: CHECKS). Or for something different, you could enter code: "APW" and receive A Perfect World Cleanser instead. You can also get free standard shipping with a purchase of $50 or more.

Origins promotes Earth-friendliness throughout the year. Here are two more ways to participate right now:

- Sustain the Planet (purchase A Perfect World moisturizer between 4/18 and 4/30 and Origins will plant a tree on your behalf.

- Learn about the Return to Origins Recycling Program.

Happy Earth Day Everyone!
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Find Your Water Footprint: Aveda Water Footprint Calculator/Quiz

Aveda has a great quiz on Facebook that calculates your Water Footprint. I just took it! It turns out that I use about half the water of the average person. Not bad, but the quiz showed me a few places where I can do a little better.

Not only will you learn something, but completing the quiz sends $1 to help fund clean water projects. Read and do...

Create Ripples – Aveda Earth Month

At Aveda the month of April is designated as Earth Month, and since starting this event in 1999, with the help of our guests and network of salons, we have raised more than $14 million for grassroots organizations that protect biodiversity and address environmental issues around the world. For the past three years we’ve concentrated on the issue of water – raising funds and awareness for equal rights and access. Did you know that 1 in 7 people globally (that’s nearly 1 billion people) do not have access to clean water on a daily basis?

To help consumers learn of their impact on global/local water issues, follow this link (
http://bit.ly/WaterFootprintCalculator) to the water foot print calculator created for Earth Month. The calculator provides great tips on conserving water and is quite an eye-opener for many! Not to mention that for every completed calculator, Aveda will donate $1 (up to $500k) to our global partner, Global Greengrants Fund, to help fund clean water projects.
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Amazing Discount: Tarte Celebrates Earth Day with 30% Off!

Earth-friendly Tarte is celebrating with a whole lot of people-friendly promotions! From today through Sunday, use the code "EARTHDAY" and receive 30% off sitewide! You can also receive a free tote set with any purchase of $60 or more! (And shipping is free on orders $40 and over.)

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One Day Only: Beauty Ticket Earth Day VIP Discount

In honor of Earth Day, www.beautyticket.com is offering an awesome discount. Use the code "EARTHDAY15" and take an extra 15% of of everything!


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Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Softening Me Up: Ec~Oooh~Chic (review)

Since my entry yesterday was a tad…er…long, I'm going to balance things out with something a little more concise today. (There's also a whole lot of beauty news.) And I'm posting earlier than usual because today is long and busy. I have a feeling that by late afternoon, stringing a couple of sentences together will be more than I can manage. I knew that this week might be a bit draining, so I'm making it a point to pamper myself in the evenings as much as possible. Last night (in the spirit of pro-active pampering), I checked out a couple of fine items from Ec~Oooh~Chic (by Ooohlala of Beverly Hills).

Organic Shea Butter and White Tea Shave Cream

Blurb: This shea butter rich formula is full of highly effective certified organic soothers, moisturizers and anti-oxidants such as aloe, sunflower oil, white and green teas, lavender, sweet almond and comfrey to help skin defend itself while staying soft and bump free. Ideal for shaving both feminine legs and manly faces. Fragrance free.

Tangerine & Ginger Sugar Scrub

Blurb: Made with natural cane sugar, honey and a selection of the finest essential oils this scrub provides a gentle yet effective treatment for dull skin. Natural cane sugar stimulates circulation working with honey and essential oils to revive soften and smooth. Makes a great at home spa treatment for removing dead skin cells and leaving skin feeling and looking renewed.

Thanks to these two items, my skin is like buttah today! For starters, the Shave Cream is gorgeous. It's actually more of a rich mousse than a cream; and what I love about that is that it doesn't run or disappear. I slathered it on both legs it stayed right where it was until I shaved it off. I got a very close shave and super soft, soothed skin afterwards.

The Sugar Scrub is thoroughly fabulous. Thoroughly. For one thing it smells heavenly – a bright, tart/sweet tangerine with a little zing of ginger. It's refreshing, but not overpowering. It has a lovely consistency (invigoratingly scrubby instead of scratchy); and after I rinsed, my skin was baby bottom soft. Depending on the weather, you might even skip using a body lotion afterwards. This is one of the best scrubs I've ever tried!

Ordering from the website is a whole lot of pretty fun. You can also get free shipping (in the USA) with the purchase of any two items. Aaaand…there are a couple of nice discounts (use code "WWD" to get 10% off the Shave Cream, and "OS" to get 10% off of the Papaya Pumpkin Enzyme Mask).
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NEW From Urban Decay! Limited Edition Fragrance Oil: Revolver

Really?

Omigodomigodomigodomigod! A new limited edition fragrance oil called…Revolver. Starting April 27, it will be available exclusively on their website (http://www.urbandecay.com/) while supplies last. Check it out while I swoon…










Be Good/Smell Gorgeous: Strange Invisible Perfumes

I know I haven't been doing a whole lot of Earth Month features this year; but I'm glad I have a chance to direct your attention to the amazing fragrances of Strange Invisible Perfumes. They're committed to beautiful fragrances and a beautiful planet. Read on…

Earth Month 2010: Vibrantly Green With Strange Invisible Perfumes

An exclusively natural, botanical perfume house, Strange Invisible Perfumes is sincerely committed to environmental consciousness, green business practices, and product purity.

• 100% certified organic grape alcohol is used as the base for all Strange Invisible Perfumes.

• Organic, wildcrafted, biodynamic and sustainable raw materials are sourced for all fragrances (local ingredients whenever available).

• Essences are usually wildcrafted or organic. Essences cultivated by small pioneering farmers who cannot afford organic certification are also embraced.

• All eau de parfum cartons are printed on FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) certified paper, manufactured using biofuel with pulp from sustainably managed forests.

Strange Invisible Perfumes’ latest launches include:

• Essence of IX – A limited edition pure perfume
- Inspired by Colgin Cellars in Napa Valley and the famed IX Estate
- Notes of white sage, rose, black currant, California lavender, French oak and wild honey

• Peloponnesian: Strange Invisible Perfumes’ first eau de parfum designed expressly for men
- A refreshing fragrance built with the ancient perfumes of the Greek peninsula
- Notes of hydro-distilled orange and lime, cypress, orange flower, mountain sage honey, and botanical musk

The Strange Invisible Perfumes boutique also stocks premium, non-toxic products from a variety of eco-friendly brands including, but not limited to:

• Talulah Moonflower Gentle Cleansing Balm is imbued with naturopathic extracts, whole food nutrients and rare floral essences. Talulah's natural, holistic products are handcrafted from scratch using artisanal, slow process methods and fresh organic ingredients.

• Amala Hydrating Cream Cleanser hydrates dry skin while gently removing makeup and impurities. All Amala ingredients are grown organically and sustainably in their native habitats to ensure peak potency.

• Saipua Clove Geranium Soap is a spicy, warm rendition of geranium with clove, cinnamon and black pepper essential oils. All Saipua soaps are carefully crafted in small batches using food-grade vegetable oils, butters, herbs and extracts.

The Strange Invisible Perfumes collection is carried at their flagship perfumery in Venice along with products by other like-minded brands.

Strange Invisible Perfumes
1138 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, CA 90291
(310) 314-1505
www.siperfumes.com
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LORAC – Hollywood Insider Collection

Take a look at the latest glamorous set from LORAC – the Hollywood Insider Collection (available exclusively at Sephora for Beauty Insiders only)…

Lorac’s Hollywood Insider Collection
Available Exclusively At Sephora To Beauty Insider Members Only


The new Collection contains this season’s must-have beauty essentials hand-picked from Celebrity Makeup Artist, Carol Shaw. The limited-edition set features five full-sized products for ONLY $39.50 (with a $142 value!) and includes:

- Perfectly Lit Oil-Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight (warm beige)
- Baked Matte Satin Blush in Hollywood (bronzed rose)
- Bronzed Bombshell Eye Shadow Trio in Sand/Serenity/ Bronze
- Special Effects Conditioning Primer/Defining & Lengthening Mascara
- Couture Shine Liquid Lipstick in Vintage (light neutral beige)

Don’t miss out on your all-access pass to Red Carpet beauty! Be sure to scoop it up while supplies last - it’s only available at Sephora now and sephora.com (starting 4/20) until May 12th!
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Origins' First Annual Free Concert: It Rocked

I wish I could have been there, but by all accounts it was awesome. Take a look…

Origins Rocked Earth Month with First Annual Free Concert
Featuring Grammy Award-Winner Macy Gray, Juliette Lewis, Ryan Star and Jon McLaughlin


Monday night, Origins invited fans in the tri-state area to the first annual Origins Rocks Earth Month concert to celebrate Earth Month and to further the brand’s programs for sustaining the planet. The free concert, held at Webster Hall New York City, featured headliner Macy Gray and emerging artists Ryan Star, whose single “Breathe” is currently charting, and Jon McLaughlin. Origins chose to partner with the Grammy award-winning artist as her new single, “Beauty in the World,” truly captures the sentiment of Earth Month.

Juliette Lewis, one of Hollywood's most talented and versatile actors, emceed the event. A long-time fan of Origins and its responsible approach to creating a sustainable business practice, Juliette rocked out to each of the performers throughout the night.

In honor of its Return to Origins Recycling Program, Origins offered two free tickets to consumers who brought at least one empty cosmetic package, regardless of brand, to select Origins retail stores in the tri-state area. Origins will be submitting all of the collected empty packaging to be recycled or responsibly converted to energy. Additionally, Origins will be planting a tree on behalf of each of the 600+ concert attendees to help further its Global Plant-A-Tree Program, which will add to the already impressive tally of nearly 24,000 trees planted since the program’s inception.
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Mothers' Day Gifts from Estée Lauder

Take a look at the gorgeous gift ideas from Estée Lauder. Available at Estée Lauder counters nationwide and at http://www.esteelauder.com/.








Weatherproof Beauty (yes, you heard me)

I just got cool info about something fun. It seems that Jergens skincare, John Frieda and The Weather Channel have created a partnership just in time for the warm weather! Take a peek...

Weatherproof Your Beauty Regimen!

Ever desired a cheat sheet for weathering bad hair days and dry skin? The Weather Channel (TWC), John Frieda and Jergens Skincare have you covered with a Daily Beauty Forecast, available online at
www.weather.com/beauty. Developed to help you plan your hair and beauty regimen based on the forecast, the tool includes frizz and skin alerts designed to keep bad hair days and dry skin at bay.

The Daily Beauty Forecast works by predicting the likelihood for frizzy hair, dry skin and more. Based on the forecast, John Frieda and Jergens Skincare provide expert product recommendations to bring out the best in your hair and skin no matter what the weather.

Users can choose how to access daily and hourly beauty forecasts, via online, mobile devices or on their desktop. Hair and skin alerts based on weather can also be sent directly via email or text message for beauty advice on the go.

Available just in time for spring rains and summer heat, the beauty forecast is online at
www.weather.com/beauty, on www.weather.com from mobile devices, and on The Weather Channel desktop application.
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Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Expose Yourself! Schick Quattro for Women (review)

If you've been reading this blog (or just pretending to read it), you may have noticed that I mentioned some great conversations I've had lately. I'm so grateful I live in a time when technology makes it easy to keep in touch with people. Millions of years ago, when I first moved out "on my own;" I went to San Francisco which was about 400 miles away from friends and family. This was pre-internet/pre-email/pre-long distance-calling-plan; so we mainly kept in touch by writing letters. And, this just in: 19-year-olds are not the most consistent letter-writers. I'm amazed we managed to stay in touch at all.

Nowadays it's pretty easy. Quick emails, texts, chatting and that most fabulous thing of all: cell phone plans with unlimited minutes that let you call anywhere in the U.S. This still amazes me. I no longer have to wait until after 5pm to make a "toll call." And I can talk for-freaking-ever.

My grandmother did not like this turn of events. She thought email seemed impersonal; and she didn't like people casually picking up the phone instead of writing a nice letter. I also liked letters (I still have most of them); and I liked being able to plan my thoughts and carefully word my responses to what other people said. It allowed me to express myself, but still keep some distance. That's not really the case nowadays (when you're "live"). And I also think it's probably for the best. It turns out that all this "cold," "impersonal" technology has actually opened the door to more authenticity and intimacy in my life. I'm a little more "exposed" these days, and I think I'm better off for it.

So that was a pretty long road to today's beauty item, wasn't it? Well, I'm feeling the whole communication thing big time; and it's spilling over into beauty junkie-dom. You don't need me to tell you that things happen in the Springtime.

But, back to something more blog-worthy. In addition to people exposing their thoughts and feelings, Spring also brings a different kind of exposure. Skin. And shouldn't everyone get to see your newly exposed skin looking all smooth and pretty? (Answer: yes, they should). Let's see how the folks at Schick can help us out with that…

Quattro for Women

Blurb: A high performance razor! New Handle, More comfortable Hold. Long Lasting Smoothness so you could skip a day or two! Enriched with Aloe & Duo-Vitamin Complex™ Conditioning Strips. Compact Pivoting Head to follow all your contours. 4 Ultra-Thin Blades for a close, smooth shave. Sleek Handle for precise control. Softer rubber, better grip. Includes convenient Shower Hanger.

Since my intro was so freaking long; I'll make my review nice and short. It works good. Real good. There's not a whole lot to say about a razor when it does what it's supposed to. And this one absolutely does. It gives me a fabulous, close, comfortable shave. And no nicks or cuts (even when I don't have my contact lenses in). The moisturizing bar helps the blade glide along and the handle has a nice grip. All this closeness and comfort applies to the bikini area as well. What more do you need? (Answer: shave cream, but that's tomorrow's review).

The website has information about all the Quattro for Women products. For purchasing purposes, though, I suggest your local drugstore or a site like Drugstore.com.

Happy Tuesday!
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Monday, April 19, 2010

Girl in Need of Tub Space: Ulta 3-in-1 Buttercream Cupcake Shower Smoothie (review)

Happy Monday everyone! I had a pretty spectacular weekend - most of it spent with other people. There was hanging out, girls' lunch, general goofing off, browsing beauty aisles, dinner with friends, and a couple of amazing eye-opening conversations. I also got a ton of stuff done. The next two weeks are busy, so I made sure to get a lot of little tasks out of the way and run all my errands so that when I come home at night, I can just relax. Part of that relaxing will include some seriously pampering tub time to help me get in my good head space. Enter something yummy from Ulta.

3-in-1 Shower Smoothie (in "Buttercream Cupcake")

Blurb: ULTA Shower Smoothie is an ultra-rich cleanser that can be used as a bubble bath, shampoo or body wash. Creamy, rich Shower Smoothie gently cleanses. Use in the shower as a foaming body wash. Pour into the tub for a sumptuous bubble bath or work into a wonderful lather to shampoo your hair sparkling clean. Gentle enough to use everyday.

For those of you having a hectic, busy Monday, here is the short version: Yummmmmmmmm!

Now for the rest of you who have nothing to do but peruse beauty blogs…

In keeping with my New Year's Resolution, I'm making it a point to spend more of my blog "research" dollars on items that are excellent and reasonably priced. This Smoothie from Ulta qualifies on both counts. First…it smells amazing (like rich, buttercream frosting). Second…it smells amazing. Third…it smells amazing, makes your bathroom smell amazing, and the scent quickly fades to socially acceptable levels. It also lathers well (a little goes a long way) and moisturizes. I didn't think it worked all that well as a shampoo; but as a body wash or bubble bath, it's fabulous.

If you check out the Ulta website, you'll notice that it comes in no fewer than 12 fragrances! You can also check out the offer for a free tote with a $30 men's or women's fragrance purchase (or browse the sale items).

Happy Monday!
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Friday, April 16, 2010

Hair Care Friday: Earthly Delight Conditioner (review)

Welcome to another Friday featuring hair and hair care. For some reason, I was talking about hair a lot yesterday. I had a conversation with a co-worker about hair lengths and hair cuts, then later on in the evening I was on the phone with someone talking about long hair vs. short hair. As a result of all that, I decided I wanted to try growing my hair long again.

I used to wear it really long (down to my waist when wet) and then I got tired of all the upkeep. But when I asked my hairstylist to cut it off, he would always talk me out of it. After I moved to the east coast (2001), I was sitting in my living room watching "Fashion Emergency" (remember that show?); and suddenly decided that I wanted my hair cut right now. So I got a pair of scissors, flipped my hair forward and cut a straight line across (luckily curly hair hides a lot of mistakes). Ever since then, my hair has been somewhere between short and shoulder length.

So now that the decision is made, I'm going to see how I feel about long hair after almost 9 years. One of the things I do remember is the importance of a great conditioner. Oh wait! I just happen to know of one!

Earthly Delight Hair Conditioner

Permission to use this photo is courtesy of Danielle at Black Strands. Many Thanks, Danielle!

I tried this conditioner because an employee at Whole Foods raved about it. Since her hair looked pretty fabulous, I took her word for it and bought a bottle. Thank you, Whole Foods employee! This is a fabulous, fabulous conditioner! I didn't notice much difference on the first two days, but by the third day my hair was much softer, and felt gorgeous. I couldn't believe how much better it looked and behaved.

When I started looking for information on the web, I found recommendations on websites for long hair and curly hair. I'm not surprised. The bottle says "for all hair types," but I know that long and/or curly hair tends to need a lot of extra TLC. In addition to the fabulous softening and detangling, this conditioner also smells downright delicious (kind of a spicy coconut fragrance). I've also used a small amount as a leave-in and really liked the results.

I'm planning on trying the shampoo next, but I need to finish up what I have. I wish I could direct you to a website, but I haven't been able to find one. The only place I've seen it for sale is in Whole Foods and online at a site called Willner Chemists. If any of you happen to know where else it can be found, let me know and I'll post.

Have a great weekend, everyone!
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Shopping Section – Smarter.com

I just added another link to my shopping section: Smarter.com. Since I only feature sites/products I love (sponsored or not); I needed to check out the site first. About 2 hours later, I decided this was a mighty awesome site.

It's comparison shopping for just about anything you can think of. I spent all my time in the Cosmetics & Makeup section (big surprise there); but there's also fashion, furniture, magazines and tons more. The site is well organized, easy to use and has things like seasonal bargains and…coupons.

Click.
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Shopping Section – Proactiv

Now that the opera chaos has died down again, I'm fixing up a few things here in blogland. One of the things I'm working on is adding to my "Shopping" section (top right hand corner).

I just put up a sponsored link to the proactiv website; but I also couldn't resist adding my own two cents. I tried proactiv a few years back and got great results - it absolutely worked. Another great thing about this line is that it's really comprehensive. In addition to acne treatments, there are also cleansers, toners, moisturizers, mattifiers, etc all geared toward sensitive break-out prone people. If you happen to be burdened with less than flawless skin, I suggest you take a look.
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Thursday, April 15, 2010

Tax-Free Thursday (I wish): Too Faced Natural Eye Kit (review)

I'm just pretending it isn't tax day for a moment. Tax day is annoying. Especially because my local township (which is tiny) has a very un-tiny, tedious tax form! Bleh! It's all very…taxing (I'm deeply sorry for that one…heh heh). Anyway, this year's brief tax distraction is brought to you by Too Faced Cosmetics.

Natural Eye Kit

Blurb: The Natural Eye Kit contains everything you need to create the pretty, soft, and slightly sexy "natural eyes" you've seen on super models and celebrities and have always wanted to perfect for yourself. The three easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction cards lead you through every fun step to insure a professional looking application every time!

If anything could take my mind off of all those silly, boring forms, this palette can. I love it! Just love it! It's not my usual thing at all – I tend to run to the shiny new colors. But this is an excellent collection of beautiful, neutral shades that range from the pale & subtle to the dark & dramatic. There are nine colors (both shimmery and matte) in sets of three (Day, Classic and Fashion). Even though they're divided up, they all work really well together. I played with these at my makeup table and got an amazing variety of looks. And the packaging is sturdy, compact, and excellent for your bag or desk drawer (not to mention adorable). The kit even includes three how-to cards. Too cool!

If you browse the website, you'll notice that Too Faced carries a lot of really fun palettes and kits. For the newest offerings, take a look at the Launch Pad section, or find their Facebook page and become a fan. Too Faced is also found at Sephora, Ulta, and beauty.com.

Sigh…back to my taxes!
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