Slowly Easing Over The Hump That is Wednesday: Ahava Rich Cleansing Cream (review)

Woo hoo - it’s Wednesday! More than halfway there!

The day started out with some mid-week crankiness; but luckily I had time for a fun little break. That cheered me up for the rest of the afternoon. Maybe that bodes well for the rest of the week too. Cranky beginning followed by fun and cheerful second part. I can live with that.

Okay…time to stop meandering and get to the beauty part. Here's a super fab cleanser. From AHAVA.

Rich Cleansing Cream


Blurb: A refreshing rub-on-and-rinse-off experience with 2-in-1 skin cleansing and balancing action. This mineral-rich, soft-textured cream cleanses delicately and efficiently as it clears the complexion. Makeup and dirt rinse away effortlessly and skin is left feeling soft and supple. Cleanses skin while protecting against environmental damage. Soothes and conditions skin with Aloe Vera extract.

I’ve been using this Cream for about a month, and I am loving it!

It has just about anything I could possibly want in a cleanser. It’s creamy, gentle, lathers well and removes every bit of dirt and makeup. It even removes sunscreen! It also rinses away easily and leaves my skin feeling clean, soft and balanced. And…it doesn’t cause breakouts. I appreciated all of the minerals, vitamins and botanical extracts – but what really sold me was how well it worked.

Visit the website and take a look at the rest of the Time to Clear line. Check out the bestsellers and see what's new. (Right now through Friday at midnight, you can get a free summer straw tote with any $30 order.) You can also find Ahava at drugstore.com, and HSN.

So far, this week has brought a mod Monday, and a moody Tuesday. How about a folksy Wednesday?



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

It’s A Tuesday Kind of Day: Lierac Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil (review)

Meaning…"It’s only Tuesday?"

It was so hot last night that I had to sleep on the sofa. The regular AC in my bedroom just wasn’t enough to cool things off. So I moved to the living room. The thermostat on my industrial strength living room AC no longer works – which causes a continuous, chilling, arctic blast. It’s awesome.

For all of my friends who still live in San Francisco: ”AC” stands for “Air Conditioner” - something I never owned until I moved east. San Francisco is freezing cold in July. Tonight, it’s about 87 degrees here in the Philly ‘burbs. Tonight’s temperature in San Francisco is a right and proper 52 degrees…sigh.

Anyway…everyone here has been all draggy and droopy for the last couple of days and the week seems endless. So maybe instead of being all whiny, I should talk about something nice and pretty. Perhaps something that smells good and makes my skin feel soft and smooth. Perhaps something from Lierac Paris.

Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil for Face, Body & Hair


Blurb: This luxurious polysensory oil provides 24-hour hydration that nourishes and softens the skin and hair with a combination of jasmine, camellia, gardenia and four precious botanical oils: argan, hazelnut, sweet almond, and grape seed.

Here’s another fine product for summer. I was worried that this would be too heavy for the hot weather; but it’s a perfect weight. This oil has a light consistency, and absorbs very quickly into both skin and hair. It also has a very subtle, lovely fragrance (a nice balance of earthy and floral). And the multi-use aspect is fabulous for long days when you don’t want to lug a bunch of products around with you.

By multi-use, I really mean multi-use. I patted some on my hair in the afternoon, and it tamed my midday frizz and flyaways. I also rubbed a little bit more in my hair before I went into the pool to help protect it from the chlorine. As a quick hydrator for my face, it also worked very well.

My favorite use for this, though, was as a body oil. Even though it absorbed quickly (my hands were “slip-free”); it softened for hours. It was a soothing, fragrant bath oil, and an excellent pampering after-bath moisturizer.

Browse all the fab products on the website. See what's new, check out the promotions page and use the store locator. Lierac is also available in European Skincare Centers (at select CVS/pharmacy and Duane Reade locations), Beauty.com, and Skinstore.com.

To balance out yesterday’s ramped-up mod Monday experience; here’s a thoughtful (perhaps...moody?) Tuesday kind of thing…



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Slowly Returning To Calm and Sanity: Schick® Intuition® Naturals Sensitive Care™ Razor (review)

Very slowly. Thanks to all of you who have been patient – and for all the cute notes. This summer is full of fabulous activitivies, and awesome self-discovery, and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to discover everything. Plus, people keep visiting. Which means I have to clean stuff. It turns out that cleaning also cuts way into discovery and blogging time.

I took on far too many things this summer, and it looks like I need to sit down and figure out how to shave some time off all my obligations. But today...I finally have enough peace, quiet and relative sanity to write a beauty review. And speaking of shaving (heh!), here’s something for your pretty summer legs. From Schick.

Intuition Naturals Sensitive Care


Blurb: Schick® Intuition® Naturals Sensitive Care™ razor has a Skin Conditioning Solid™ that contains 100% natural Aloe with Vitamin E, and is fragrance free and hypo-allergenic so it's gentle on your skin and helps reduce irritation. Now gentler on the environment with 100% recyclable packaging made with recycled materials!

Somehow Schick keeps managing to hit home runs with their products. I’m a huge fan of the Quattro for Women razors, and I was really eager to try this. And because of the design, I thought it would be perfect for traveling. It was!

The first bit of genius is that I don’t need to use any shaving cream. The Skin Conditioning Solid™ that surrounds the blades lathers up while shaving. I not only appreciated not having to bring along an extra bath product; but the convenience of having the shave cream already in the razor also meant I didn't have to find a spot for the shave cream in the teensy hotel shower. The Aloe and Vitamin E also did a nice job of moisturizing.

The razor has an easy-to-grip rubber handle, and a pivoting head. It also comes with a shower hanger and cap. It's unbelievably convenient and portable. Gym bag, overnight trips, long vacations – you name it.

And…I got an excellent, close shave! Awesome!

Take a look at the website. There are some other great looking products as well. Schick products are sold in grocery stores, drugstores and places like Ulta, Walgreens, CVS, duane reade, and drugstore.com.

And…since I’ve been gone MIA for so long…here’s a nice video. Some 1960’s mod angst. The video sequence is a little strange, but this version had the best sound. And it might help wake you up if you have the Monday blahs…Enjoy!



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Have a Wonderful Holiday!!

I'm still trying to get caught up on the chaos that is currently my summer (and google is still being ornery); but that doesn't mean I don't have time to wish you all a wonderful Fourth of July!



I wish you a beautiful weekend full of fun, leisure, and judicious use of sunscreen!





See you all after the holiday!

Saturday Edition: My Wish List at Zalando!

Yes – it’s actually Saturday! After getting all caught up on my reviews at the beginning of the week; utter and complete chaos ensued (and then google blogger starting acting weird). So I got all cranky, and decided to take the week off from blogging to get everything straightened out and back to “normal.”

Of course, in addition to straightening things out, I also spent way too much time on the web checking out cool sites with pretty stuff. And I found this really awesome (not to mention comprehensive), super stylish European site. It’s called…Zalando

First portion of wishlist...clothes. Like this short dress from miss sixty.

And some cool dresses from French Connection

And…more dresses

Second portion: some mighty cool…sigh!...shoes

Like these Minna Parikka heels

Or these yummy suede boots from Clark's

I’m also craving these mad fab Adidas high tops

Okay…back to business. I have family visiting this weekend, so it should be nice and relaxing. And...I’ll be back all bright eyed and ready with the prettiness!

(ftc disclosure: sponsored post)

Pretend Hair Care Friday! Salerm Hi Repair Mask (review)

Yup – it isn’t Friday either. But that doesn’t mean I would just randomly skip my weekly hair care item! Nope. It’s a few days late, but it’s here. Something from Salerm.

Hi Repair Mask

Blurb: Hair is restored from root to tip, without leaving a greasy residue. Protects against hair aging caused by chemical or natural processes. Patented molecule made up of a fast acting silk-silicon-alkali, which restructures the hair deep down.

As my hair gets longer, conditioning becomes even more important. I also color my hair, so that’s another level of conditioning need. I’m always on the lookout for new conditioning products; and lately, I’ve really been appreciating what I call “mini-masks.” They’re halfway between daily conditioner and overnight treatments. About two mornings each week; I saturate my hair, wrap it in a towel for about 3-5 minutes, then rinse.

I gave this Mask a try, and thought it did an excellent job. I didn’t even need to comb it through my hair; and when I rinsed, my hair was silky and tangle-free. I let my hair air dry, and was thrilled at how soft and shiny it was. I only needed a tiny bit of leave-in (to control fly-aways), and I was good to go. I had soft, pretty hair all day long; and by evening it still looked great.

Visit the website and take a look at the giant selection of products. There’s a what's new section, and an online catalogue that even includes salon furniture.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Happy Pretend Thursday! Olay Purely Pristine™ Body Wash, Bar Soap and Body Lotion (review)

I know…Thursday was a few days ago. I wrote my Thursday and Friday reviews last week; but then things got so hectic and crazy that I never had a chance to actually post them. I could have written “Happy Pristine Thursday” if I had been on time with my postings. But instead…last Thursday is being brought to you now. Along with some fine items from Olay.

Cleansing Body Wash and Moisturizing Body Wash

Blurb: Discover the clarifying crispness and pristine beauty of the Nordic region while you refresh and cleanse to purify your skin with this oxygen-rich lather infused with mineral crystals and seaweed extract.

Massaging Bar Soap

Blurb: Refresh and cleanse your skin with minerals crystals and seaweed extract using this body bar with a massaging design.

Body Lotion

Blurb: Discover the clarifying crispness and pristine beauty of the Nordic region while you invigorate your senses and nourish your skin with this rich moisturizing lotion infused with minerals and seaweed extract.

This line features refreshing spa-like fragrances, and soothing formulas that feel lovely and pampering. The Body Washes had a wonderful, crisp scent, cleaned well and left my skin soft and smelling pretty. The body bar had a textured side, that not only cleaned, but gave my tired muscles a gentle massage. The lotion felt soothing, softened my skin and had a slightly warmer version of the Body Wash/Bar fragrances.

I really enjoyed this line (and each of these items is somewhere in the neighborhood of $5 each). Fabulous value!

Check out the website for more information. You can also browse the new products and offers. Olay products are sold in drug stores, grocery stores, Walmart, Target and ULTA.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Mid-Week Refreshment: skyn ICELAND Arctic Face Mist (review)

My long weekend is starting to become a distant memory. It’s only Wednesday, but this week has been jam packed. I’m starting to droop. Time for a little facial (glacial) wake up call. From skyn ICELAND.

NEW Arctic Face Mist

Blurb: Has your frantic lifestyle led to a surge in stress-related hormones and histamines? If so, your skin may be irritated, exhausted and depleted of vital hydration and nutrients. You need relief and protection against future damage — and you need it fast. Our newly reformulated, dye-free Arctic Face Mist instantly helps calm and stabilize irritable, depleted skin with a cooling burst of natural mineral water, while fortifying it against the aging effects of free radicals and environmental stress. Powerful antioxidants and a daily dose of multivitamins for skin help energize and replenish for a radiant, healthy glow.

First I’m going to tell you about all the good things that are in this. Things like vitamins A, B(complex), C and E. It also contains Thiotaine (a natural antioxidant), yeast extract and cucumber water (to calm irritation and tone), and white willow bark (to prevent breakouts and skin congestion). That’s a mighty action-packed spritz!

It’s also an incredibly refreshing spritz. I deeply appreciate all the things that are good for my skin; but today I loved the minty, cooling, freshening I got when I sprayed it on. In the morning, it makes a wonderful toner, and in the afternoon, it’s a great refresher. It’s soothing, doesn’t irritate at all and has a very light, lovely scent.

I love visiting this website. There are lots of great facts about Stress and Skin, as well as cool products (like their TSA-approved detox kit). Right now you can find out how to recruit 10 friends and wiln $100. Skyn Iceland is also sold at Sephora and Saks Fifth Avenue.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

For Dad’s Day: LUSH Dirty Collection - Body Spray, Springwash Shower Gel & Shaving Cream (review)

Many many things need to get done this week. You may know something about that. In addition to my regular goings on, there’s also Father’s Day business at hand. For those of you that are still wondering what to get the Dad (or Dads) in your life; here’s a nifty collection. From LUSH.

Dirty Body Spray

Blurb: Squirt our Dirty spray over your body, day or night, for portable deodorizing when you're on the move. Dirty spray is a deep and powerful freshener any time that you feel rushed off your feet; sandalwood helps to combat unwanted odours and that famous Dirty scent of tarragon, lavender and subtle spearmint will fool even the bloodhounds. Complete your layers with the deeper levels of Dirty. Get guys to ‘can' their aerosol body sprays and start using this freshly fragranced one instead. Plus it's made with real fragrance that will last a lot longer.

Dirty Springwash Shower Gel

Blurb: Like a dip in a mountain spring. After a dirty night on the tiles, jolt yourself back to reality with our tingly spearmint shower gel. Springwash is like a dip in a mountain spring, just in time for the weather getting warmer; spearmint and menthol crystals will make your skin feel cool in a hot shower and give it a sweeter scent than peppermint. Your bits will feel fresher in no time. Mo invented this refreshing and tingly shower gel, adding sodium bicarbonate to soften the water and deodorize the skin, making it absolutely perfect for 'Dirty' guys. There's also glycerine and sea salt in the recipe to soften the skin and hair as you're washing with it.

Dirty Shaving Cream

Blurb: Chin up! Slather, shave and soothe your face with a generous helping of Dirty shaving cream. Calming oat milk, shea butter and honey are great for calming irritations and red marks on sensitive chins. No one enjoys smooching when there's a hairy, scratchy beard face to contend with! Dirty boys should use this softening shaving cream to help the razor glide over the skin and leave their chins looking sharp. Scented with lavender and sandalwood, it's another layer to the Dirty fragrance blend. Not only should the men in your life being using Dirty shaving cream for a slick, fresh face, ladies can also enjoy the feeling of silky smooth, hair free skin on their legs and under their arms with a good dollop of this softening cream.

I love this line! I love to give beauty gifts, but generally the guys aren’t always as eager to “feel pretty.” This line pretty much satisfies everyone. The packaging is straightforward, modern, and has a “no frills” look while still remaining stylish and giftable.

And the products are excellent. Now I have to admit that I was the only one who tried the Shaving Cream. I kept it all for myself, and I loved the scent. I did have an actual guy try out the Body Spray and Shower Gel, though. He thoroughly loved both of them. The peppermint/sandalwood/tarragon combo is fresh and botanical without being girly. Not only did he enjoy the Body Spray, but I enjoyed it on him. We both gave the Shower Gel a try (he showered with it, and I used it as a bubble bath). It was heavenly and refreshing. The mint was more noticeable, and I felt incredibly clean and fresh afterwards.

The website has the entire collection, and there’s also very nice Get Dirty Gift set.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Get Your Glow On: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Custom Glow™ Blush & Bronzer

Alas…my “staycation” is over. It’s back to going to specific places at specific times (and doing specific things). I actually love my job; but I really loved my long break. A friend of mine told me that when you stay home for vacation, every day becomes Saturday. He is wise. He also likes to steal plastic traffic cones – so he knows all about how to have a good time.

Today, I’m easing into the week with a couple of pretty (and fabulously priced) items. From Neutrogena.

Healthy Skin Custom Glow™ Blush & Bronzer

Blurb: Perfectly coordinated blush and bronzer duos that blend effortlessly to deliver a healthy, sun-kissed glow anytime. Patented blend of antioxidants helps enhance skin's healthy look over time Lightweight, velvety texture. Mirror and brush included. Available in 6 shade duos.

Healthy Skin Custom Glow™ Bronzer

Blurb: Get a healthy, sun-kissed glow anytime of the year. The lightweight, velvety bronzer with light reflecting pearls blends effortlessly for a naturally radiant look. Formulated with a patented blend of antioxidants, it helps enhance skin's healthy look over time. Mirror and brush included.

Ever since I reviewed a compact; I’ve had a new respect and curiosity for this line. I love the idea of effective beauty products that are good for my skin, and also reasonably priced. Both of these items have kept the respect going.

The Blush/Bronzer duo is perfect for summer. I tried the “Berry Glow” palette, and loved the sweet, pretty color of the blush. The bronzer is lovely and shimmery, complimented the blush, and worked well as both a bronzer as well as a contour color. Both are highly pigmented and have excellent staying power. The solo Bronzer is also excellent. The color goes from light to darker, so I was able to get exactly the right shade. I also used some from the darker side on my shoulders and collar area for a nice sun-kissed glow.

Check out website, and visit the special offers page. Neutrogena is sold in grocery stores, drugstores, and online at drugstore.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Sunday Edition: LUSH Retro Favorites

Check out the fab retro fab favorites that LUSH has brought back for the summer…

Ask [LUSH] And Ye Shall Receive...

Here at LUSH it’s all about innovation and keeping things fresh. This exciting modernization also means having to say goodbye to some products to make room for the new ones. But what about those loyal fans who can’t live without X, Y or Z and like to tell us so? Don’t worry we’ve got them covered with our Retro line of re-released discontinued products that are available exclusively online at www.lushusa.com. Here are just a few of the fan favorites that are making resurgence in the LUSH line-up this summer:

In the Nude Bath Melt: Get in the nude this summer! This naked bath melt is small and discreet, yet it’s rich in moisturizing cocoa butter and scented with the divine combination of almond oil, lavender oil, rose absolute and chamomile oil.

Shave The Planet Shaving Cream: The antioxidants and vitamin-rich ingredients soothe and reduce redness while repairing and softening skin. Fair trade organic shea butter and cupuacu butter condition skin as the rose absolute and bamboo infusion soothe it. Vitamin-rich pumpkinseed and cold pressed rosehip oils make for a smooth shave and calm skin. LUSH’s 100% PCR packaging make sure that as you shave you save the planet.

Milky Bar Soap: This creamy, comforting soap smells like hot milk, which is nice to wash your body with just before going to bed. Milky Bar Soap is made with nourishing soya milk (so it's vegan!) and toning sweet orange and patchouli oils. Give a chunk to all the sweet people you know for glowing, touchable skin to slip into the sheets for a good night’s rest. (Vegan)

Smitten Hand Cream: LUSH customers asked very politely (but persistently) for a lighter, daytime hand cream scented with the same deliciously mouth-watering almond fragrance as our Snowcake soap. LUSH founder and product creator extraordinaire, Mark Constantine, created Smitten in response. Smitten is a fast-acting, deliciously scented, chamomile and coconut butter hand protector enriched with wheat germ to make your hands feel soft and luxurious while smelling like delicious almond frosting.

Sunday Edition: Perfect Brows with Parissa

Check it out – mini wax strips for perfect brows!

Sunday Edition: Scented Handles from Schick Quattro for Women

How fun is this? Schick Quattro for Women has just come out with scented handles! Take a look…

A Girls’ On-The-Go Guide to “Berry” Smooth Legs!
NEW Schick® Quattro for Women® Disposable razors with Scented Handles
In #1 Skintimate® Signature Scent™ Raspberry Rain

No matter the season or where you may be, count on the NEW Schick® Quattro for Women® Disposable razors with scented handles in #1 Skintimate® Signature Scent™ Raspberry Rain™ to awaken your shave routine. See how the sensorial shaving duo keeps your skin and life berry smooth!

7:00 AM: Shower Your Senses

Perk up your shower routine with the sweet smell of raspberries from the fragrance-infused handle. Pair it with Skintimate® Signature Scents™ in Raspberry Rain™ to moisturize skin with olive butter, Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5. Whether you’re showing off legs in a summer dress or hiding them behind tights this autumn, you’ll be smooth and prepared!

Smooth tip: You know when it’s time to dispose your razor when the blades are dull!

6:00 PM: Strong, Sexy and Smooth Post-Workout

Don’t forget to pack your disposable razors and shaving cream into your gym bag for a quick and easy shave to show off those toned legs!

Smooth tip: Avoid a shower that’s too hot and repeat passes of the blade for a nick-free shave

8:00 PM: Champagne and Raspberries

Whether you’re meeting up with girlfriends or the apple of your eye, get ready in a jiffy with your disposable razors and shaving cream. Schick Quattro for Women and Skintimate leave skin so smooth that you could skip a day or two—perfect for that second date!

Smooth tip: Skintimate is designed to cling onto hair and lather—don’t use soap if you’re in hurry!

Weekend Getaway: Smooth Sailing!

If you’re packing for a weekend excursion, don’t forget to include your must-have shave essentials. After shaving, simply toss and go!

Smooth tip: Don’t hesitate to pack your disposables in your carry on—they’re TSA-approved!

If you’re a girl on-the-go, don’t forget to keep your Schick Quattro for Women Disposables fully stocked and legs Skintimate smooth so you’re ready for wherever the day may take you!

Hair Care Friday…Saturday Version: Rusk Deepshine Oil Protective Treatment (review)

Yes, this week Hair Care Friday falls on a Saturday. Mainly because I spent most of last night fiddling around with a dessert idea that just didn’t work. But I did learn two valuable lessons. First, don’t wait until the last minute to try out your new dessert idea. And second, whipped cream collapses and turns to runny goo in 90+ degree weather.

Earlier in the week I also learned that it’s a terrible idea to try out a new hair coloring product the day before an event. On the bright side, I learned how to fix said problem with the help of a fine product. From Rusk.

Deepshine Oil Protective Treatment

Blurb: A marine mineral-enriched argan oil treatment that smoothes the cuticle, eliminates frizz, and improves elasticity and hydration, leaving hair soft, silky and manageable. Deepshine Oil is perfect for all hair types. Deepshine Oil smooths the cuticle, eliminates frizz, and imparts incredible shine and condition. This lightweight, alcohol-free formula imparts brilliant shine, while advanced marine therapy infuses the hair with superior condition, renewing the natural integrity of the hair. Used as a styling or finishing product, Deepshine Oil helps seal the cuticle, prevent color fading with subsequent shampoos, and protect against damage caused by chemicals, excessive heat from thermal styling, and environmental factors.

Short version: This Treatment saved my hairdo!

I tried out a temporary color product that a friend of mine had been raving about. I was going somewhere, and I wanted to do something fun…but temporary. Well, the color was cute (and temporary), but it completely dried out my hair. I was appalled…and kind of peeved at my friend.

Luckily, I had a bottle of this Treatment that I’d been waiting to try out. It claimed to smooth the cuticle, and add lots of shine and conditioning. I gave it a try. I smoothed it in my damp hair, then gently combed it through. And…my hair was fixed. Totally and completely fixed. Instead of colored straw, I had colored hair. It was shiny, pretty and the curls came back. Whew!

Even better, my hair felt soft and pretty all night. Thank you, Rusk!

I chucked out my friend’s “suggestion,” but I’m going to keep this Treatment for use after I do my regular coloring. It says that it’s also great for use during the coloring process. I believe it!

The website has the entire Deepshine collection. You can also check out the fashion, culture, and attitude pages. Deepshine is available at leading salons (including ULTA) and online at Stylesource.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Thunderous Thursday: Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips (review)

Well the whole day wasn’t thunderous. Most of today was wretchedly, ridiculously hot. But then the heat broke thanks to a big thunderstorm. So now it’s pretty pleasant. End of weather update.

This is day #2 of my “staycation,” and it’s been mighty nice so far. Wednesday was clean and pamper day, today was relax and have fun day; and tomorrow I’m hanging out with the girls. End of staycation update.

Oh wait, isn’t it time for a review? It is! Here’s something super fun from Sally Hansen.

Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips

Blurb: Sally Knows nails are the best accessory. Now, Sally makes it easy to get a designer-inspired salon effect anytime, any place. It wears like nail polish because it IS nail polish. No dry time, so you’re ready to go.

What the blurb above doesn’t say is that these are really, really fun! It took me a couple of minutes to get the hang of applying them; but once I got it all figured out, it was incredibly easy. Simply peel off the backing, peel the polish stip away from the plastic, lay carefully on the nail, snip off the excess, and then use the orangewood stick to rub/buff it on to your nail. I also used the edges of the stick to tuck the ends under the edge of my nail. After they were all applied, I used the file (included) to file off the edges that were sticking out and any excess that got tucked under. I got a perfectly neat application on every nail.

What’s more, there was no drying time, it lasted for 8 days, and came off easily with polish remover.

And they looked fabulous! I first tried “Girl Flower” (second row, far left), and got tons of compliments. Same with my favorite, “Laced Up” (second row, far right). I got compliments from friends, co-workers, and even grocery store cashiers. I am having a blast with these!

Check out the website to see all of the great designs; then visit the where to buy section for a listing of grocery stores and drugstores where Sally Hansen is sold.

I feel like I conveyed my enthusiasm, but my explanation of how to apply wasn’t all that great; so I’m going to refer you to another blogger’s video tutorial for a little bit better demo…



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Warm Weather Is...Afoot: AHAVA Dermud Intensive Foot Cream (review)

The heat has definitely arrived! Record-breaking temperatures! Yuck.

First I want to send a shout out to all my friends at Americade who are camping (you heard me right…camping) in the heat. I wish you safe travels, plenty of shade, and big bottles of water (and/or beer).

Here at home, I’m spending the day barricaded in my air conditioned apartment and doing things like coloring my hair, cleaning, and later on giving myself a mani/pedi. One of the fine things I’ll be using to make my feet pretty is something nice from AHAVA.

Dermud Intensive Foot Cream

Blurb: This soothing cream is a real difference maker for my dry feet. It's hydrating Dead Sea mineral mud formula relieves itchiness, redness and scaling. It leaves my feet feeling remarkably soft, supple and comfortable. Aloe Vera and Shea Butter extracts soften and smooth very dry and sensitive skin. Coconut and Jojoba oils helps to lock in moisture for all day comfort. Provitamin B5 and Vitamin E protects and rejuvenates.

I like to wear as little footwear as possible (except for the occasional pair of cute high heels). I only own about 4 pair of socks because that’s how rarely my feet are covered. That means my tootsies are visible to the elements (and the general public) most of the time. Even more in the spring and summer. So I know from foot cream.

This particular Foot Cream is excellent! It’s a very thick, soothing cream; and it also absorbs very quickly. It makes my feet look softer and better immediately. My feet also feel great – even the roughest parts. What I especially love is that there’s no stickiness or greasiness - which is aweseome when I don’t feel like sliding around in my sandals.

The website is full of wonderful things for your skin. Orders over $50 ship for free, and you get free samples with each order. You can also find Ahava at drugstore.com. And…this Friday (June 10); tune into HSN (8am to 10am) to learn about the Foot Renewal Treatment Duo and Bath Salts Trio.

And now here's something kind of bikery for my motorcycle riding friends. Kind of. My sister and I were crazy about this song when we were kids. I remember singing our own version of it with our little neighbor friend. Imagine 7 and 9-year-olds singing “you’ll see the world from my Harley.” Kinda cute (and slightly alarming). This youtube version features tv clips instead of the band (I have no idea why).



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Heat Wave a' Comin! COOLA Mineral Face Matte Finish (SPF 30) & Tint (SPF 20) (rave review)

I’ve been walking around in a fog all day because our local township thought it would be a really good idea to repave the street where I live. I totally agreed with the whole repaving idea, but I did not agree with the idea of doing it in the middle of the night. Really? Yes, really. There were trucks and bright lights outside all night long.

Cheltenham Township…you do NOT rule. You don't rock either.

There. I said it.

Anyway…in other news, a gigantic heat wave is supposed to descend upon the Philadelphia area beginning tomorrow. That means there will be sunshine everywhere. Wouldn’t this be a great time to feature some awesome sun protection products? (Answer: yes, it would.) How about two lovely items from COOLA.

face spf30 matte finish cucumber natural mineral sunblock

Blurb: Say hello to your new everyday sunblock. A natural, mineral matte formula that gives you SPF 30, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection while it hydrates your skin with vitamins, antioxidants and repairing extracts like Shea Butter and Borage Seed Oil that target early signs of aging. Soothing organic Cucumber balances skin’s moisture and delivers a refreshing scent. Naturally water-resistant phyto-protectors like Plankton boost SPF protection make this the perfect beach companion. 70% Certified Organic inactives, 95% Natural.

face spf 20 tint rose natural mineral sunblock

Blurb: Feel rosy without getting too rosy with this natural mineral, sheer SPF 20 sunblock that is sure to keep your delicate facial skin even, hydrated and protected. Rose Extract soothes the skin and the senses with its natural toning and aromatherapy properties. And while combining the super antioxidant and anti-aging powers of Xylinum Black Tea and Organic Grape Seed Extract, this formula delivers lasting broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is still light enough to feel perfect under makeup everyday. 70% Certified Organic inactives, 98% Natural.

Wow! Just Wow! This is powerhouse sun protection, skincare and beauty all rolled into one. Or…two.

The matte finish sunblock is a zinc-oxide/titanium-dioxide sunscreen that also makes an excellent primer. It went on smoothly, absorbed quickly, and left no white cast. It had a very mild and pleasant cucumber scent, and felt light, hydrating and soothing. There was no heavy feeling at all. It dried to a matte finish that worked fabulously under my foundation.

I tried the tint rose sunblock both alone and layered over the cucumber sunblock, and got great results each way. The rose sunblock has a consistency somewhere between a tinted moisturizer and a light foundation. The coverage was sheer to medium and slightly buildable. It blended easily, and did an excellent job of evening out my skin tone (it also had a pretty rose scent). The finish was very fresh and natural. And again…excellent zinc oxide-based protection.

Each of these products is fabulous on its own; amd layered together they provide super effective (and pretty) sun protection, coverage and skincare. I feel like I can go anywhere this summer and look great while my skin stays in the shade. A+…and bring on the heat wave!

Take a look at the website and learn more about sun science, and a few other organic facts. There’s also a very comprehensive where to buy section. COOLA is also available at Spas, beauty centers, Dermstore and drugstore.com.

Here’s another kind of heat wave. From Martha & the Vandellas.



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Aaaaand…We’re Back! Thymes Agave Nectar Body Wash (review)

As I mentioned earlier, last week was a giant, hectic, crazed festival of stress. I had an amazing Memorial Day weekend; but then had to hit the ground running Tuesday morning. And I kept running. Then I ran some more. By the time I stopped it was the weekend again.

But once I did stop? Beauty treats to soothe my spirit. Starting with this gorgeously scented body wash. From Thymes.

Agave Nectar Body Wash

Blurb: Whether used as a shower gel or body cleanser, awaken your ability to thrive with skin-quenching lather blooming with fresh fragrance. Glycerin attracts moisture and softens skin while agave extract helps soothe. Agave Nectar is an oasis for your skin, tapping the resilience of the desert. Agave nectar, cocooned within the quenching agave plant, forms a warm, honeyed base note. Above, layers of ruby red grapefruit, delicate lemon blossom and tangy guava pulse with refreshing citrus, radiating a bright, cheerful optimism. And soothing aloe leaf and subtle crystalline musk deliver a clean, fresh finish.

After last week was over, I seriously needed some pampering, refreshment and rejuvenation; and this Body Wash was more than up to the task. I got loads of soft, bubbly lather, and my skin was clean, balanced and soft. I love citrus fragrances, and this one is a standout. It’s a heavenly balance of tart and sweet with a bit of warmth and softness. It’s an excellent pick me up. I immediately felt a whole lot better.

Check out the website, and take a look at the Complete Agave Nectar Collection. There’s also a beautiful gift section, and a handy store locator. Thymes is sold in fine independent specialty stores across the United States and Canada (and in certain international markets).

Here’s to smooth sailing this week!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Almost Back: Jessica Biel and Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara Commercial

Take a sneak preview of this commercial before it starts running in movie theatres on Monday…

Revlon’s brand ambassador Jessica Biel
Starring in “Hypnoteyzed,”
Revlon’s new commercial for their new Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara.

Biel and musician Pharrell Williams star in the 60 second film noir-inspired commercial, which was shot entirely on black and white film. In “Hypnoteyzed,” Biel draws Williams in with her plumped eyelashes and with each bat of her lashes, nearly knocks Williams off his feet. Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara conditions and plumps eyelashes by 200% with every use!

As of today, Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping mascara is available in drugstores and mass retailers nationwide, and “Hypnoteyzed” will begin running in US movie theaters on June 13.

Almost Back: Liz Earle Wins Two CEW Awards!

One of my favorite brands just won two (count em – two) CEW UK Awards! This is huge (and well deserved) – go Liz!

Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare Wins Best British Brand...And More!

Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare won two prestigious awards at this year’s Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) UK Awards ceremony. The awards are known as ‘The Oscars’ of the UK beauty industry, so to win two of these highly coveted prizes is a wonderful achievement!

In the brand’s 16th year, it was an honor to be recognized by the CEW with the Best British Brand Award.

Also, as the ‘one-for-all’ Botanical Shine Shampoo is still in its first year, we are especially excited about the Best New Haircare/Styling Product Award. This shampoo has already found a place in the hearts of many of our customers, as well as the Liz Earle team!

Even better there were three other finalists from the brand. The original and only Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser was a finalist for Best Classic Beauty Product: Prestige category, the uplifting Energising Body Lotion was a finalist in the Best New Bath and Body Product: Prestige category, while the crème de la crème for more mature skin types, Superskin Eye & Lip Treatment, was a finalist for Best New Skincare Treatment Product: Prestige category.

About the CEW AwardsCEW Awards nominations are proposed and judged by a panel of around 600 ‘beauty insiders’, including top experts and professionals who are all members of the CEW. As these awards are recognized as the beauty industry’s highest honor, winning one acknowledges a product is the very best in its category.