Beauty & Janine

Makari Discount! Exclusively for Beauty & Janine subscribers! Don't want to wait on the contest results?

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 03:36:00 +0000

Makari has extended a discount for our readers just in case you don't want to enter or wait on the contest results! Up until July 30, 2008, you will receive a 10% discount on orders of $65.00 or more. Just enter jan10 at checkout! You cannot combine this promotion with any other special offer or on the use of kits.

Love always,

Janine

Contest Details! Beauty & Janine's "Face of Makari Contest"!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 03:03:00 +0000

1. You must be a subscriber to Beauty & Janine. Why wouldn't you want to be?

2. You must submit an article of 100-200 words and a photograph expressing your skin type, skincare concerns, problems, current skincare regimen etc. Watch grammar!

3. This is your chance to shine! You must in return document your results via Beauty & Janine blog in the form of a photo journal and/or video blog TWICE weekly for two months. If you start to get use to this, which you will! You will also have the chance to be a guest or permanent editor and write about products like myself for Beauty & Janine! How fab?

4. You must be 16 years of age or older.

Deadline is July 12, 2008 and winners will be announced July 13th at 12:00am. Three winners in total will be selected. All winners will receive a FULL Makari de Suisse skincare regimen! ALL entries will receive a sample of Makari's Night Cream regardless to whether or not you are the contest winner. Testimonials will be greatly appreciated. Please forward all entries, address and contact information to janine.walker@gmail.com and please spread the word!

Makari de Suisse! Time in a Bottle? We are doing a MAJOR contest! Discounts!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:41:00 +0000

I have so many beauty products that sometimes I dream that my wallet is going to attack me in my sleep and say stop spending my money! Now that I have your attention (drum roll please!), I found time in a bottle! A miracle product! The best thing since sliced bread! Because it is my passion to bring you the best products out there with no fluff added, it was absolutely imperative that I share with you my experience starting last summer. Last Spring/Summer I had FLAWLESS skin. I have great skin to begin with but it was flawless! With that being said, I tried to repeat the same skincare regimen for this summer and I have been literally abusing my skin (and I know better) trying to get the same results. A friend of mine, whom is the director at Makari on 125th street in Harlem (His name is Romell and he is fab! Tell him I sent you.) gave me tons of samples of Makari "Night Treatment Cream" last year which is super AWESOME! I really love that stuff. So one day it hit me. This is the product that is not currently in my skincare regimen. Duh Janine! I won this writing contest on my Audrey Hepburn piece on myitthings.com and received a $200.00 gift card to amazon.com. Of course, I decided that I would spend it on the night cream. They were out of the night cream and I was so desperate that I ordered the (get this) Caviar Face cream! I'm super uber excited about this but anyways, I was a little skeptical that I wouldn't receive the same results. It dried up my period pimple in one night and brightened it dramatically in a couple of days. Those stubborn hyper-pigmentation marks are now fading and I've tried everything else! I was so insecure. I feel so much more confident about my skin now and this product changed my life. Working in beauty is tough! A lot of critics! Nonetheless, and I know this a bold statement, but this is the "Dalai Lama" of skincare. No fluff! No heavy advertising! I love it! It feels like silk is going on your skin and doesn't leave behind any funny residue. These products are a 100% natural and don’t contain hydroquinone, bleach, or chemicals. The active ingredient is called vegeclarine. I never heard of it but I know it is working wonders for my skin. Big props to the Belgium chemist and co-founder Maurice Bertrand along with Jack Aini. It seems like a lot of research went into these products. It includes ingredients such as "algae, aloe vera, caviar, citric acid, lemon, malic acid, mulberry, salicylic acid, seaweed and vitamin C." It has salicylic acid so I guess this is why it is working on my acne. Makari is made for darker skin tones, however because it doesn't have any harsh chemicals and based on testimonials from Caucasian women, it does not harm the skin and does the same wonders. You can view these testimonials on their website. It was also said to help get rid of "farmer's tan". This product worked on my brown skin at the pace I needed it to. So, when I ordered my product I had concerns that this product would not work as effectively as the night cream. I called the company and praised them and asked if it would work like the night cream. It did. So the Marketing Executive Ms. Baila Greenfeld reached out to me and said she would offer my blog readers an exclusive discount. I said better yet let's do a contest because I really want to share this product with them! She said YES! I guarantee you will love it! Please find out contest details in the following immediate post. Also, check out makari.com to read testimonials and find out more information. If you do not want to enter the contest but still want a sample, please go to makari.com to receive one. It's $0.99 for shipping and handling. EVERYONE who enters the contest will receive a sample! The winner will receive a full Makari regimen! I would love for everyone to follow up with their experience with these products.

Love always,

Janine

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Daily Regenerating Moisture Lotion

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:05:00 +0000

Hello Readers!

It's been awhile since I've gotten a chance to post because I've just been so busy with my own beautiful life so please pardon my negligence. I've missed you all. So, I've been using this Garnier moisturizer and I must say that it is absolutely extraordinary! I have tons of beauty products but I use this product on a daily basis. It has the Garnier product fragrance which I love. This makes a HUGE difference because I've been put off by excellent products because of the way it smells. It does not sit on top of your skin and it gives the skin a nice velvety texture which is my favorite. On the bottle it mentions it is an excellent make-up base and it really is. It is oil-free AND it has a SPF 15 in it so is perfect for summer. According to my research, this moisturizer is packed with vitamin C and the site mentions that instantly skin will be "smoother, softer, and energized". "In three weeks, skin is radiant, fine lines are visibly reduced, and women saw more even-tones skin." With continued use skin builds resistance against the signs of aging and reveals deeper radiance and clarity." So far, all of their claims has been true. I love that! I am urging you to give it a try. I guarantee you will love it. This product can be found at your local drugstore for about $12.99. They also have these wonderful Purifying Wet Cleansing Cloths that I adore. I've used them for just about everything. It is an excellent make-up remover. Especially, for the eyes and clean-up.

Love always,

Janine

How to Shop at Sephora!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Tue, 06 May 2008 19:29:00 +0000

1. Do greet the "cast members" politely or you may know them as make-up artist, skincare or fragrance experts. They are there to assist you.

2. Do not greet them and then ask for their opinion on something and then second guess them. This is a waste of your time as well as theirs. Instead listen to their advice. They are thoroughly trained on every product in the store and will be able to give you the best recommendation.

3. Do use mascara wands, lip wands, and tools provided at the station.

4. Do be conscious and do not use the mascara straight from the tube and then blame Sephora for the reason you got an infection. The same goes for lip products.

4. Do not double dip.

5. Do schedule an appointment for a consultation.

6. Do not expect a full make up application at peak hours or at all for that matter. You are technically allowed a limit of three products. It is not a makeover but instead a lesson. If you go early in the day around 10:00am-11:00am the artist do not usually mind. Also, please do not come in during closing hours on Friday or Saturday night and expect them to do your evening make-up and then get mad when they say no. This is just plain rude and show you have no respect for people's time.

7. Do not steal. It is tacky and there is nothing pretty about a thief.

8. Do not call over a cast member and ask them to clean up after you, get a product that is clearly in reach, or take your products to the cash wrap. Do not be lazy.

9. Do enjoy your shopping experience and take as much time as you need.

10. Do expect excellent client service and do not purchase anything with intentions to return it because you felt pressured.

11. Do have self control.

12. Do not spend your rent money.

13. Do not call the cast members ugly names like the B word. How disrespectful.

14. Cast members do not work on commission. Please do not tell them that they are just trying to get your money. They will gain nothing from you making a purchase.

Love always,

Janine

Skin Cancer is NOT Gorgeous. Sephora Makes Protection Pretty & Partners with the Skin Cancer Foundation!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 01:25:00 +0000

The Beauty Retailer Continues Its Commitment to Safe Sun with New Sun Safety Kit This May, Sephora is proud to re-partner with The Skin Cancer Foundation on their second annual Sun Safety Kit. The kit, which proved to be extremely popular last year, is back and better than ever with an arsenal of safe sun skincare, and best of all, 100% of the net proceeds will benefit The Skin Cancer Foundation. More than 1.3 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year, so this year, do your part to protect yourself while helping others.

"Just 2-3 minutes of sun exposure is enough to do damage and begin breaking down the collagen that keeps skin firm,” says Stacy Baker, editorial director at Sephora. ”Cumulative sun exposure causes more than 90 percent of non melanoma skin cancers and makes you look older. Sephora's Sun Safety Kit has a roundup of easy-to-use, travel-friendly products -- all SPF 15 or greater -- to make it fast and convenient to protect yourself from head to toe from damaging UV rays."

"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Sephora on this extremely successful awareness program,” said Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation. “The outstanding success of the Sun Safety Kit reinforces Sephora’s commitment to education on keeping skin healthy skin and making people aware of the importance of sun protection all year round.”

This year’s kit comes complete with must-have travel-sized sun essentials, plus a UV indicator card – essential for monitoring the daily UV index. Packaged in an eco-friendly, waterproof travel pouch, it is the perfect kit to pack for wherever your summertime travels might take you – and remember, always practice safe sun! Sephora’s 2008 skin guardian taskforce consists of:

Korres Natural Products Watermelon Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 30 (.05oz) – Rich in vitamins and essential amino acids, this cream protects the immune system of the skin as well as prevents photo-aging.

Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Defense Moisture Lotion SPF 30 (.25oz) – Great for all skin types, this ultra-light lotion utilizes powerful antioxidants to give extra sheer protection.

DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer SPF 15 (1oz) – The Doctor is in! Everyday protection from environmental damage with a light non-greasy feel. Cosmedicine Medi-Matte Oil Control Lotion SPF 20 (.35oz) – This lightweight lotion provides UVA/UVB protection while working to control oil and reduce shine, leaving the skin even, smooth and flawless.

Juice Beauty Green Apple Moisturizer SPF 15 (.17oz) – Nutrient rich moisturizer provides broad spectrum sun protection with anti-aging ingredients to help repair past damage.

Murad Firming Bronzer SPF 15 (1 oz) – Get that bronzed summer glow without the help of the sun. This light shimmering bronzer helps firm up the skin with cornflower and rosemary and provides broad spectrum sun protection to help prevent environmental damage.

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 55 PA + + + (.08oz) – Keep your skin protected and hydrated with this light, intensely moisturizing lotion with a powerful UVA/UVB sunscreen.

MD Skincare Powerful Sun Protection Pads SPF 30 (6 single use pads) – Pocket sized protection with powerful broad spectrum protection with no residue and quick absorption.

Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Cream Ultra Protection SPF 30 (.17oz) – Let the sun shine safely with this ultra luxurious cream that safeguards skin against long-lasting environmental stress.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15 (.25oz) – This cult favorite has been revved up with serious sun protection to not only give a flawless finish but also to help repair past damage.

Tarte 24/7 Lip Sheer SPF 15 in “Thursday” (.098oz) – Perfect your pout with this smudge proof tint that provides intense hydration with a soft natural hue; your lips only better!

The Sephora Sun Safety Kit ($25 – an $87.00 value) will be available from April through June 2008 in all Sephora U.S. stores, as well as by calling 1-877-SEPHORA or logging on to Sephora.com.

About Sephora: Sephora, the beauty authority, revolutionized the global beauty industry with its unique retail concept rooted in a powerful combination of unparalleled brand and product assortment, distinctive store design and the beauty expertise of its sales consultants. Sephora offers clients a choice of more than 200 classic and emerging beauty brands across a broad range of product categories including skincare, makeup, fragrance, bath & body, hair care, smile care and tools, as well as the company’s own private label. Sephora was founded in France in 1969 and acquired by Paris-based LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world’s leading luxury products group, in 1997. Now, celebrating their 10th Anniversary in 2008, Sephora America operates more than 180 stores in the United States and Canada, and the world’s top beauty website, Sephora.com. Sephora Europe has more than 500 stores within 12 countries and has established 30 locations in China. Thanks to Sephora’s recent partnerships with HSN, a global multi-channel retailing giant, and JCPenney, one of America’s largest department stores, the beauty authority is now accessible to more clients than ever before.

About The Skin Cancer Foundation: The first organization in the U.S committed to educating the public and medical professionals about sun safety, The Skin Cancer Foundation is still the only global organization solely devoted to the prevention, detection and treatment of skin cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research. For more information, visit www.skincancer.org, or call 1-800-SKIN-490.

Say "Yes to Carrots"!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 23:31:00 +0000

My grandmother used to make me eat steamed carrots. I always preferred them raw because I loved to hear the carrot snap! Now I only prefer them on my eyes. Yes, that is correct. I'm a 20 year old professional and a mother of one so I often lack sleep. My eyes have lost its moisture but "Yes to Carrots Eye Can C Clearly Now" eye contour cream has restored the moisture. It is water-based with carrot seed oil, carrot juice and 26 dead sea minerals and the best part is that it is inexpensive. It is only $14.99! It's also cancer free a.k.a paraben free. I doubt very highly that it will make extremely dark circles go away but it will keep your eyes hydrated and soften them. This is especially good for the summer. The scent is very refreshing but it may be why it stung a little. So if you have very sensitive eyes, this may not be the product for you. For $14.99 it doesn't hurt to give it a try. It can be purchased at Walgreen's. I also have the "Feel the C Pampering Hand and Nail Spa" that I'm going to give a try. It's priced at $16.99. I will give you guys an update. Visit yestocarrots.com to learn more.

Dee & Ricky for Marc by Marc Jacobs Must Have Spring 08' Accesory Lego Belt & Headband! I know where to get them!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 21:16:00 +0000

So, I am in the local hair salon getting my hair done right before I go to work as usual and I am flipping through Paper magazine and BAM! there are my identical cousins now known as socialites "Dee & Ricky" right there along side Teyana Taylor and other people who are shaping the world. I was like in total shock! I spent most of my childhood on the ferry going to Staten Island with my grandmother to visit "Aunt Laura", "little Laura" who is not so little anymore and whom is also a fashion designer, and bad ass Dee and Ricky. They tortured me! They were just bad for no reason. "little Laura" too. We used to play in this park that I loved. I was so proud. Strange how we all ended up in fashion. Although, I went in the salon for a clean up on my graduated bob and ended up looking like Dora the Explorer, I left happy. . . with their magazine of course. Dee, Ricky, and Laura are triplets! Way to many : ). Marc by Marc Jacobs sold the belts as a limited edition piece for a short while but now you can only get them direct from the designers themselves. If you want a belt or headband you can e-mail Dee and Ricky at deeandricky@gmail.com. They also have a website that should be finished soon. DeeandRicky.com. The belts sell for $100.00. Support them and please do not try to DIY as these other websites are promoting. That is the same as a knock off and yours will fall apart in two seconds. I promise. These make a nice gift and can be worn as they did in the show and dressed down. FIY: They also invented the Playstation belt too. Tell them their cousin Janine sent ya!

Love always,

Did anyone see the new Sephora Mother's Day 2008 catalog?

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 18:03:00 +0000

I want it all! Sephora has everything for "glamamoms". I love spring/summer because all of the cosmetic companies release new products. Marc Jacobs is coming out with a "Daisy by Marc Jacobs Vanity Case" that cost $85.00 bucks. It is limited edition and I want atleast two. The train case is white and gold leather and it's so pretty! It has two drawers, 3 trays, and two foldout pockets. It appears to be personal/medium size. It doesn't look very big from the photograph but it does look just my size. They are coming out with a set of brushes also that I'm really excited about. It's called the "Daisy by Marc Jacobs Cushy Brush Set". Personal size too. It is going to sell for $70.00. Also, limited edition. It comes with a set of 5 brushes in a zipper gold and white case that has a daisy on it. Get this, two of the brushes are made of sable hair so they didn't skimp on quality. Yaaaaaay! Marc you never let me down. Included in the limited edition collection is a Daisy by Marc Jacobs Beauty Case $50.00 which looks great for jewelry also, Pretty Pouch trio $38.00, and a Mother's Day gift set that sells for $75.00. Nars is coming out with a travel size set of Body Glow and Monoi Body Glow II for only $35.00 bucks! Each of them individually cost a pretty penny which is why I never bought it. Spring and summer is also the best time to rack up on sets like these. More bang for your buck. I'm going to get two sets of these. Too Faced is coming out with a "Decade of Glamour" limited edition kit which has all of their bestsellers to celebrate their tenth anniversary. Happy tenth Too Faced! 6 eyeshadows, Bauble Gloss, 2 Gossip Glosses, Glamour Gloss, 2 lipsticks, Sun Bunny bronzing powder, Lip Injection, Lash Injection mascara, Ooh La Rouge Blush Duo, Beauty Balm and Mini Lava gloss eyeliner for ONLY $40.00! That works for me. This is probably going to sell out quick. Get yours while you can. The catalog also features the T3 mini flat iron in pink that I keep saying I'm going to get. I'll will get it next week when I get paid. I love it. I used to use it everyday when I was working at Sephora. It didn't burn my hair and it made it super straight and it's pink! $119. Hourglass has these super uber beautiful palettes that come in personalities as I like to say. The catalog features Oasis which I say is great for going from day-to-night. Call Sephora before you go to make sure they have it because it only sells in "select stores". $75.00. They will also be releasing a new mascara, primer, and bronzer!

Beautiful Imagery: Carolina Palmgren Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:30:00 +0000

I've had the pleasure of working with Carolina on a couple of different photo shoots and she is absolutely amazing! Art director turned photographer AND ex-model, she is a true visionary. Carolina is a brunette that stands about 5'10-5'11, with an adorable accent, and a million dollar smile that will make you say yes to anything. I feel sorry for her amazing artist boyfriend. She must get him all the time. Anything goes with Carolina. When she couldn't see the 6'0 foot model through her lenses, she slipped on a pair of pumps to even things out a bit just to get the photograph. Like a true hustler, she always gets the job done. Carolina is extremely passionate about what she does. I get so turned on when watching her. I have to make sure I don't drool on set. There is so much intensity and intimacy when she is shooting. Check out some of her work at carolinapalmgrenphotography.com or carolinapalmgren.com.

Love always,

How to find the best eyeshadow!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:24:00 +0000

Simply take the eyeshadow and place it on your wrist. Then blend well into the wrist. You can also try this anywhere on your hand where there are fine lines. Compare the two eye shadows. If the eyeshadow accentuate the fine lines then this is not what we are looking for. Lorac eye shadows always pass the test with flying colors. Literally. They have the most beautiful colors. They feel silky to the touch and they won't irritate your skin like other Lorac products. I also use their oil free foundation. It's one my faves. It provides a nice EVEN coverage. If you have sensitive skin and want beautiful make-up without having to sacrifice luxury then this is the brand for you. You can also never go wrong with Urban Decay eye shadows.

Love always,

BJ

Perfume 101: Get it right for this Summer!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 22:54:00 +0000

Perfume has three notes. The top note, middle note, and base note. The top note is the initial note that lasts for about five minutes. Ever tried on a perfume and loved it but then an hour later while your sitting across from your hot date, you realize that you smell like the women at church? Blame the top note for this. The middle and base notes show up to further ruin the date about 15 minutes later which mean that you will not be getting a phone call. To avoid this try on perfume and leave it on for 15 minutes. Do not stay in the same area or store where you originally tried it on to avoid confusion. Roll or the spray the perfume on the warmest parts of your body like your neck, wrists, the back of your ear, inside the elbow, and behind your knees. Not right after shaving of course. The secret to making perfume last longer is to use it on conditioned skin. Skin should be oiled before use. Baby oil is awesome! Layer the perfume over matching body cream or body wash for a lasting effect.

Eau de Colognes: The least concentrated. Contains about 3% of perfume oil. Lasts about an hour.

Eau de Toilette: Contains 3-8% of perfume oil and lasts about two hours. Best for summer.

Eau de Parfum: Not to heavy or not to light. Just perfect. Lasts for six to 8 hours.

Parfum: Potent! I love this stuff. Perfect for a day out shopping, a date, or for evening wear. Worried about offending others? Don't pick a stinky perfume and don't spray around others. Wait fifteen minutes and then leave the house.

Want to try a new perfume and in a hurry? Go to a Perfumania or Sephora and tell them your favorite perfume. They will be able to recommend something based on the notes from your current perfume.

My favorite perfume is Hanae Mori Butterfly. FYI: I wear both Eau de Parfum and Parfum. I got hooked on it as an employee at Sephora. The rep showed it to me and now I buy it all the time!

They say:

Hanae Mori, the great lady of Japanese fashion and Parisian haute couture, introduced this fragrance in 1996 and the subtle composition of scents make it unlike any other. The fragrance is a rare blend of berries and flowers, with a distinctive tone of strawberries and almond, giving an impression of vanilla. The bottle's top is distinctly made from glass, a first for any fragrance. The top represents the beauty and delicate shape of a butterfly with folded wings.

Notes: Strawberries, Bilberries, Black Currant, Bulgarian Rose, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Sandalwood, Almond, Praline.

Style: Spontaneous. Modern. Festive.

(Source: sephora.com)

I say, when I wear this I feel absolutely IRRESISTABLE! This perfume is feminine, exotic, sexy, sweet, romantic, powerful but soft. I always get compliments when I wear this. I haven't found one person that doesn't like it. When asked what I'm wearing I always say, "this is the perfume that will make someone fall in love". My friend told me she kept sniffing her bed. I'd already left three days before.

If you do try this one and you love it, you can also try Lolita Lempicka. These all have the same woody oriental notes. I didn't love it but tons of people purchased it when I was at Sephora. Maybe I just love Hanae Mori to much or I really couldn't smell it in Sephora. I'm going to give it another shot. You can also try Calvin Klein Euphoria which I liked, Prada, Givenchy Organza, Dior Hypnotic Poison, etc. Go to sephora.com and they will give you more recommendations based on the woody oriental notes.

My next favorite is Marc Jacobs Daisy. I'm going to rock this in the summer. Obviously, the notes are floral. Hence the name "daisy". It smells fresh and the packaging is really cute. They have a solid perfume ring that sells for $30.00 which is adorable. I gave them to my friends for christmas. Enjoy! Both perfumes can be purchased at Sephora or sephora.com.

Love always,

RoC Microdermabrasion Cleansing Discs

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:48:00 +0000

These are waaaaaaaaay fun and I love them! It's dual sided. One side has crystals to sweep away your dead skin cells and a diamond side to condition the skin. The pad is really soft and they smell really good. They have little pockets that you stick your fingers into and then you scrub away. They say, "clinically shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles". It did improve my forehead fine lines. Although at 20, there isn't much improvement needed. I hope : ). It also made my skin luminous. I always try to find products that brighten the skin. It's my obsession. Does "Bright & Healthy" ring a bell? You can buy them at your local drugstore or at amazon.com for $16.30. If you have OCD like me stay away or you will rub your skin off : )

Love always,

BJ

Beautiful Skin: Brown skin needs a special prescription!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 19:44:00 +0000

If you are a person of color (African, African-American, Native American, Latin, Middle-Eastern, South Pacific or South Asian), rx for Brown Skin by Dr. Susan Taylor is for you! The line was created by Dr. Susan Taylor who also is the celebrated author of "Brown Skin". I had the chance to meet her at the Cosmetic Executive Women product demo. Dr. Taylor was nice enough to give me my own personal prescription. I was lucky enough to meet her publicist Ms. Christina Carter of Lippe Taylor (the leader in beauty public relations) who is such a sweetheart. She sent me the entire Bright & Healthy collection in addition to the Absolute Radiance Intensive Exfoliating Serum which ONLY cost $36.00. In the morning my skin felt smooth and appeared free of blemishes without feeling dry. Like the serum, everything else is relatively inexpensive which we love! I had previously tried the Bright & Even collection which was to harsh for my skin at the time. I will switch back to it in the summer months when it gets warmer. It is critical that you go to Sephora and receive a thorough skincare consultation. Sephora cast members do not work on commission and they are well trained. They will not sell you anything that you don't need. I didn't give up on the brand and I'm glad I didn't! The Bright & Healthy collection was soothing to my dry winter skin and replaced the moisture that I had lost. As with any skincare line trust your own judgement and let your skin do the talking. Adjust skincare according to your skin needs and always use a spf 15 or higher. Remember that anything above 30 is not proven to work. Also, give skincare a month and do not expect a new face when you look into the mirror. The line can be purchased at sephora.com, Sephora stores or rxforbrownskin.com. Visit brownskin.net for more tips. I love that site.

Here is some more info on the brand (Source: sephora.com)

What is Brown Skin?
Brown skin comes in many tones, from yellow or olive hues to deep chocolate brown, and is found most commonly in those of Asian, Latino, African, Middle Eastern or Mediterranean descent.

Why was Rx for Brown Skin developed?
Internationally acclaimed dermatologist Dr. Susan Taylor recognized the need for a scientifically developed skincare line to address the structural and functional differences of brown skin. The key difference is brown skin's tendency to hyper-pigment (produce dark marks) when skin is irritated or inflamed.

What is the Rx for Brown Skin Difference?
Rx for Brown Skin products are formulated without the irritating ingredients found in other skin care products—fragrance, alcohol, dye, lanolin and propylene glycol—that can lead to dark discolorations. Rx for Brown Skin regimens also contain Bright Skin Complex TM, a unique blend of hyaluronic acid, soy and pomegranate which uncovers bright and radiant brown skin.

Love always,

BJ

A Beautiful Soul: Sade Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 05:16:00 +0000

In love or out? Stressed about work? Sade is always the way to go! A timeless beauty, Sade Lovers Rock/Lover Live (DVD & CD) (2003) will put you at ease. Her real beauty is in her simplicity. Comfortable with who she is, Sade only has one costume change, dances barefoot on stage, and she leaves you no choice but to focus on her soothing vocals. She is my favorite artist of all time. Every time I hear her sing it's like the very first time. Run a bath, light some candles, turn the lights out, and then play the CD. Next, invite someone over and pop in the DVD and chill to "No Ordinary Love". I guarantee a wonderful night or you can just go to sleep. Can be purchased at amazon.com for ($11.97).

Love always,

BJ

A Beautiful Mind: Audrey Hepburn: A Woman, the Style by Leonarde Arte & Edited by Stefania Ricci, Beautiful enough for your coffee table!

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 05:13:00 +0000

Anyone that has stepped two inches towards me knows that I am a HUGE Audrey Hepburn fan. I'm obsessed! As a gift, I received the Audrey Hepburn: a Woman, the Style by Leonarde Arte & edited by Stefania Ricci. It was presented at the Powerhouse Museum in conjunction with Museo Salvatore Ferragomo & Australian Women's Weekly. It was an AMAZING exhibit celebrating her life. I would of given my life to be there. This is my most treasured possession. The person who got it for me did not get it from the museum. She purchased it from someone who collects and then resells memorabilia which he can then charge any amount for it but it is so worth it. According to the man she bought it from, there were only 30 copies published in the world. It has not been confirmed but they are extremely rare. As an Audrey Hepburn fan, sometimes I even get sick of seeing the Breakfast at Tiffany's photograph. It's has gone commercial! This book features unpublished photographs of her, has 232 pages printed on premium stock , and has all of her designer duds. It is an essential for anyone who loves Audrey Hepburn and beauty. The book can be purchased at amazon.com. Most of them in like new and good condition. They even have some new copies. Amazon does not sell the book. Only through independent sellers. Prices range from $19.04 and $138.50. Treasure it and keep the book in pristine condition just in case you become extremely broke and have to sell which I do not suggest. I'm going to pass mine on to my daughter. To learn more about the book please click HERE.

Love always,

BJ

A Beautiful Face: Hourglass Cosmetics, Can you really have your cake AND eat it too?

noreply@blogger.com (Janine the Blogger) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 05:12:00 +0000

Who ever said you can't have your cake and eat it too was lying! With Hourglass Cosmetics you most definitely can. This niche brand is for smart women who want smart make-up with the luxurious packaging to match. Hourglass Cosmetics (prestige) was created by 34 year old beauty veteran Carisa Janes. Carisa has the magic formula to bring cosmetics new life. She was the co-developer of Body & Soul cosmetics. Her AMAZING portfolio includes Urban Decay, her own company ISA Design LLC that oversees Sugar Cosmetics, and Animilia. Yes, she is a very busy woman! Animilia is her luxury new candle co. that will be launched this Spring and made up of 85% essential oils. Her speciality is her emphasis on the packaging. Leather? Yes!

Let's go over some of my favorite products!

The Brushes:

I say, as a make-up artist these are the most beautifully crafted make-up brushes I have ever seen in my entire life! I love them and will not live without them! Seven essential brushes in total and numbered so no confusion, these brushes are durable and made of Takelon so you can be germ-free. My favorite is No. 7, the finish brush ($65.00) and No. 2, the foundation/blush brush ($30.00).

The Foundation:

Veil Fluid Make-up Oil Free SPF 15 ($60.00) is one of the best foundations out there. If you are looking for a light to medium covergage, then this is for you! I've used it on mature skin and the results are amazing AND immediate! It gives the skin a beautiful and healthy glow. Made with Matrixyl, known to stimulate the production of collagen, Skin Tightener ST known to improve the skin's texture and promote younger looking skin, and silicone to immediately fill in fine lines and wrinkles. Sensitive Skin? Check! Oil and fragrance free. SPF 15 which is perfect for the Spring and Summer months. SKIN CANCER IS NOT BEAUTIFUL! You can wear it without powder IF your skin is normal. I do not recommend doing this if you have oily skin. You can apply with the No. 2 brush or because of the awesome packaging which has a dispenser, you can put it on your hand and blend into the skin which is my favorite trick! Apply a little blush and go! Think it's a little pricey? When purchasing cosmetics think about how many days you will use it. My liquid foundation last me a year. So you are only paying about 17 cents a day : )

Extreme Sheen High Shine Lip Gloss ($28.00) Imagine is sold exclusively at Sephora!

Again, a little pricey but worth it. Silicone based, this lip gloss just glides on but will not glide off. No more weird white stuff (You know what I'm talking about!). Non-sticky! I repeat non-sticky! Extreme Sheen will not crease. It still gives you that glass like effect. It has become my new favorite lip gloss. I love the color Ignite. It looks beautiful on me and most skin tones. The same with Imagine! Try Tarte FrXtion ($11). It exfoliates on one side and has a lip conditioner on the other side. Use it before applying extreme sheen. Awesome results! Extreme Sheen High Shine Lip Gloss also has 6 new colors on sephora.com. Lush, Nectar, Origami, Primal, Truth, and Verse. Sounds yummy!

Mineral Powder:

For those of you looking for something softer, try Hourglass Oxygen Foundation Powder ($48) currently comes in four shades. Numbered of course! Tired of Bare Escentuals? Is it not working for you? Oxygen powder allows your skin to breathe! Made with soybean complex to promote skin's health the results are flawless. Silky to the touch. You will keep playing with it. I promise. It has vitamin E to nourish the skin and the powder is oil free and talc free which makes you look ashy. This gives your skin a major boost! The best part is the packaging. It has mirror that swivels 360 and lies down flat for hands-free applications. Smart.

All these products can be purchased at sephora.com or hourglasscosmetics.com. If you have any questions, please e-mail me at janine.walker@gmail.com. Feedback welcome!

Love always,

BJ