Retrodivas Beauty

Beauty Blog Link Love for this week

meredith — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 23:08:05 +0000

Have you ever tried epilating? Well, now Rae has — and she just loves her new Emjoi Emagine!

Vote NOW on what Makeup Series you’d like to see next on Betty Girl Makeup. Poll closes Friday, August 6th @ 11:59pm.

Jellyminx shows a summery golden pink look and features a surprise guest!

Kim Porter swatches products from the MAC In The Groove Collection to show you what it looks like on NC50 skin.

Krasey Beauty has exclusive swatches of the new Make Up For Ever Lab Shine Collection.

Rachel’s been trying out new mineral makeup from Lily Lolo over at Queen of Turquoise.

Hot Beauty Health shares a list of the top 10 virtual hairstyle and makeover sites to try out a new look!

Musicalhouses makes Illamasqua’s Beg blush wearable in her latest FOTD.

Find out everything about Summer 2010 makeup trends in the Makeup4All on-line beauty magazine.

Joeybunny over at the PinkSith blog tells us what worked and what didn’t during her testing of Raw Minerals Makeup and Brushes. Did you know she’s a Team Jacob and not a Team Cullen?

Jolie Laide Girl gets all hot and bothered playing with the Urban Decay Naked Palette.

Check out what makes Guerlain’s Meteorites Perles primer so special on Beauty Addict.

Fed up of struggling to access your new makeup? Yeah… Lipglossiping is, too!

Christelle from Beauty Crazed learns that multiple X’s are not always inappropriate… sometimes they mean mascara!

I Heart Cosmetics has become totally obsessed with the Clarisonic.

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Retrodiva is giving away the brand new Sampar’s Good Weekend Kit, a new travel-friendly kit for urban skin survival.

Win an Infiniti by Conair You Curl curling iron from Audrey Dao.

There’s still time to enter the Summer Smooth Skin Giveaway at The Gloss Menagerie!

Got troublesome skin? Enter Hellcandy’s skincare giveaway for the chance to win some B-Liv products!

Do you want a new traincase? CSN stores is giving one Spiced Beauty reader a $40 gift card!

How to get rid of those pesky age spots, or how to not age gracefully

meredith — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:43:21 +0000

Remember back in the 70s and 80s when we used to bake our skin in the sun and use things like “tan amplifiers” and aluminum foil to get a darker tan? There may or may not have been baby oil involved. We really didn’t grasp the idea of sunscreen back then, outside of that greasy white stuff that some people would spread on their nose to keep it from getting red.

Well, all that tanning, ignorance, and reckless sun exposure has come back to haunt us in the form of freckles, age spots, and “sunspots.” There are ways to fight back – because we are going to fight aging every step of the way.

There are many medical treatments out there that are extremely helpful in treating age spots, including laser treatments, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. These require a commitment of both time and energy, not to mention (in many cases) large sums of cash. However, for a permanent fix, you cannot beat the effectiveness of a laser. According to Dr. Jeffery Melton, Director of Cosmetic Surgery at the University of Illinois, Chicago, the laser works by:

A laser generates and intense beam of light. This beam brings energy to a specific site, through a small hand piece connected to the laser.The laser light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin (bright red blood cells carrying oxygen) and melanin/pigment (black or brown pigment found in the skin) causing decomposition or destruction by heat of unwanted cells while leaving healthy cells intact.

Microdermabrasion at a medical spa is also an option for those with extra money to burn. During micro dermabrasion treatment, the skin is sandblasted with a jet of micro crystals which abrades off part of the melanin stuck in the spots (but not all of it). This process also stimulates collagen production, so that the skin also regains density and elasticity. It can take 6 to 12 microbrasions for smaller age spots to be entirely removed and for larger ones to fade. After the first 4 microdermabrasions, many of my age spots were gone (admittedly, these were really small) while the larger ones began to fade.

Most people, however, are interested in solving the problem at home. New products on the market can be very effective with continued use. Here are a few of our favorites:

[View with PicLens]

Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum: Nature’s answer to aging skin, Vitamin C provides firming, lightening, and toning benefits. Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum uses 7.5% Ascorbic Acid to reduce discoloration and increase the skin’s elasticity.
Clinique ‘Even Better’ Clinical Dark Spot Corrector: Dermatologist-developed to be safe and comfortable, yet in clinical trials this serum was comparable to a leading prescription ingredient in creating a more even skin tone. A verified 53% improvement in skin tone. For all ethnicities. See results starting in as little as four weeks. At twelve weeks, see a visible reduction in dark spots, age spots and traces of acne past.
OLAY Regenerist Microdermabrasion & Peel Kit: This at-home kit contains six weeks of treatments. It resurfaces skin’s texture and activates surface cell renewal. Your skin will feel soft and smooth after just two uses.
Kinerase Cream: Kinerase contains kinetin (N6-furfuryladenine) to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkle. Kinerase also improves skin texture, skin tone, and blotchiness in sun damaged skin. It gently moisturizes dry and sensitive or post-procedural skin. Scientific studies reveal that this topical cream works as well as Renova and Retin-A without the side effects. Kinerase reduces wrinkles, signs of photoaging and roughness of the skin with virtually no side effects. Safe to use with makeup or sun exposure. Kinerase contains the nature-identical plant growth factor furfuryladenine, which retards the aging of plant cells as well as in vitro human skin fibroblasts.

Bougie Aromatique will transport you through the world via scent

meredith — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 04:46:01 +0000

Robindira Unsworth, the company well known for its globally inspired jewelry collection and newly opened flagship boutique, Atelier at Robindira Unsworth, has expanded upon its lifestyle brand with the launch of their exotic hand-crafted soy candle line, Bougie Aromatique. Bougie Aromatique contains three scents including Capri, Ibiza and Marrakech. Each is a sumptuous and signature blend of soothing essential oils and notes that capture the perfect balance of the exotic and familiar. From soft fragrant white flowers, rich and robust ripened fruits, to clean, crisp green florals, these luxurious soy candles celebrate scent in the most unique and delightful way!

Capri contains essential oils of Tuberose with notes of Ylang Ylang and Hyacinth; Ibiza contains Bergamot with notes of Lily, Jasmine, and Neroli; and Marrakech has Ginger with notes of Pomegranate and Currant.

The candles retail for $45 each, with a burn time of 40-50 hours. They are available at Atelier at Robindira Unsworth and Robindira.com.

Giveaway: Sampar’s new Goodweekend Kit – Enter to win!

meredith — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 02:43:03 +0000

The Goodweekend Kit is SAMPAR’s answer for those who travel and want to keep their daily grooming ritual with SAMPAR in check. This kit is good for one or two applications for the weekend and can easily slip into a briefcase or pocket. It contains a perfect amount of each of the five Essentials products in easy to use, airless-pump containers that ensure maximum efficacy and prevent contamination. In addition, the Goodweekend Kit meets the size requirements of the TSA allowed liquids and gels that may be placed in carry-on bags during flights.

Each 5-piece set contains the following Essentials products:

Essentials:

Velvet Cleansing Milk

Suitable for all skin types, this light, silky cleanser combines the Urban Active Complex as well as lime-blossom and rosewater, both rich in tannin, to fight free radicals and leave skin feeling soft and refreshed.

Skin Quenching Mist

This alcohol free mist, rich in natural essences moisturizes, refreshes, and detoxifies the face while soothing the skin.

Equalizing Foam Peel

Equalizing Foam Peel contains a potent combination of the Urban Active Complex, essential oils and natural Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) to actively fight skin asphyxiation by gently removing dead skin cells and stimulating new cell growth. Skin is left toxin free, refreshed and revitalized.

Ultra Hydrating Fluid

A true miracle moisturizer, Ultra Hydrating Fluid strengthens the skin’s natural restructuring mechanisms, thickening the stratum corneum and reducing water loss by up to 19.5 percent after only 48 hours.

Nocturnal Lifting Mask

Contains 95 percent active ingredients, the results of the Nocturnal Lifting Mask can be seen after the first use. Skin is firmed, lines and wrinkles reduced and features become clearer. This powerful moisturizer acts throughout the night, plumping and tightening the skin, ensuring you wake up looking your best.

Want to try it out? All you need to do is enter to win!

How to get Sky Ferreira’s beach waves and volume hair style

meredith — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 01:18:59 +0000

Go-to stylist for the stars Robert Talty of the Magnet Agency worked on-set for Sky Ferreira’s new video One, turning her amazing blonde mane into an abundance of beach waves. “In the video Sky tosses her hair with every move she makes,” says Rob. “I wanted to create long-lasting volume with soft movement, while bringing out the natural texture.”

Here’s how Rob created Sky’s free-spirited, full-volume style:

I applied René Furterer Volumea Leave-In Volumizing Foam to wet hair, spreading it evenly down to the roots. Then I blew out her hair with a T3 Tourmaline Evolution Blow Dryer, which delivers high heat, but limits air flow to keep waves intact.
Once hair was almost dry, I spritzed random sections with Bumble and bumble Surf Spray to add that “day at the beach” texture. To pump up the volume, I had Sky turn her head upside down while I finished blow-drying.
Next, I used René Furterer Styling Solution Strong Hold on sections in front, blow-drying with a small Mason Pearson flat brush. For extra lift, I love the Rsessions Root Control tool, a dual-styling pressing comb perfect for redirecting hair around the face. My secret for taming any fine baby hairs: a few strokes of clear mascara.
Sky stepped in front of the cameras with a fresh new look, all about movement and non-stop volume.

Summer sun and bronzing favorites from Sephora

meredith — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:05:56 +0000

photo by evil erin on flickr

Everyone’s favorite beauty superstore is right in the midst of celebrating summer and have shared some of their best selling bronzing and sun care products with us. Have you been keeping up with your sunscreen regimen and self-tanning care?

NEW! Sephora Sun Safety Kit ($25) – Try out a bevy of summer skincare must-haves! Unprotected sun exposure is a skincare no-no. Protect your complexion with our top picks of protection, including a UV bracelet that tells you when to reapply. In addition- all proceeds from this summer essential go to the Skin Cancer Foundation, devoted to the prevention, detection and treatment of skin cancer. For more information on the Skin Cancer Foundation, visit www.skincancer.org
NEW! Peter Thomas Roth Bronze Instant Mineral SPF 30 ($35) – Turn the dial on this convenient brush applicator mixing SPF 30 protection mineral powder with SPF 30 bronzer for a youthful and radiant complexion.
Sephora Collection Harmony Trio Bronzer ($16) – Shed a little light on your look with this three shimmer shade palette. For dramatic results, buff over shoulders, and décolletage, anywhere you dare to bare.
NEW! Hourglass Illume Crème-to-Powder Bronzer Duo in Sunset ($40) – This universally flattering bronzer and illuminated cream imparts a healthy, natural golden tint, subtly defining and contouring the face.
NEW! Sephora Collection Lush Flush in Rose 03 ($12) – For a healthy pop of color apply this sheer stain to brighten up the cheekbones. Apply over tinted moisturizer for a dewy summer complexion or on clean skin for just a hint of tint. Either way, you will look naturally glowing!
St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse ($30)- This lightweight, easy-to-apply, velvety mousse dries in 60 seconds and delivers a rich-bronze tan to really give you a bronzed glow from head-to-toe.

Breaking: Kerastase Friends and Family Sale through Wednesday only

meredith — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 22:27:01 +0000

Receive 20% off any purchase of your favorite Kérastase products plus complimentary shipping on all orders. Offer ends tomorrow (Wednesday, 7/28) at midnight so be sure to take advantage while it lasts. Enter FAMILY at checkout.

Visit Kerastase for more information.

Eight of the best smokey eye tutorials on the web

meredith — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:44:09 +0000

photo by dreamglow pumpkincat 210 on Flickr

One of the most-asked questions I think most beauty bloggers get (or maybe it’s just me!) is how to do a smokey eye. The truth of the matter is that it looks dramatic and overwhelming, but it’s really not. There is a simple technique to doing it well, and I’ve rounded up some of the best tutorials on the web that you hopefully haven’t seen to help you achieve the look you’re going for.

Remember, there are many different ways to execute the smoky eye – you don’t have to go for full on black and gray smoke. Any color will work, as long as you have about three shades of that color. This goes for neutrals as well.

NARS Smokey Eye Tutorial by Accidental Beauty. A very sophisticated look using NARS products.
Smoky Eye Tutorial by Cupcakes and Cashmere: A bare-bones yet simple way to get the look.
Smokey Eye Tutorial by Mishka. Aussie makeup artist Mishka presents a gorgeous look that isn’t hard to re-create.
Dramatic Purple Smokey Eyes by MissChievous. Lovely take on the smokey eye with purple.
Black Smokey Eye Tutorial from Temptalia. This is a classic, black eye with lots of smoke.
Get the Perfect Smokey Eye by Sephora. Everyone’s favorite store has a short video with excellent tips.
One Eyeshadow Smokey Eye by ChanelBlueSatin. It can be done!
Daytime Smokey Eye Tutorial by Beauty Gala. A toned down look that is appropriate for the office.

Two new lip products from Fusion Beauty

meredith — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 01:39:37 +0000

I’ve always been a huge fan of Fusion Beauty products. I don’t know if the LipFusion truly plumps up my lips (I’d probably need a micrometer for that) but they are always beautiful, high quality lip glosses with plenty of shimmer and shine. They have recently put out two new lines of lip products that I was able to try out recently.

First was the FusionBeauty LipFusion InFatuation Liquid Shine Multi-Action Lip Fattener, a gloss with a new technology called Amplifat to increase body fat where you need it most – presumably on my lips, because I certainly don’t need it anywhere else. This highly pigmented gloss helps boost fatty acids, and is formulated without harmful parabens. It also doesn’t have any glitter, for those of us who feel strongly that glitter does not belong on our lips. FusionBeauty LipFusion InFatuation Liquid Shine Multi-Action Lip Fattener in Pucker Up:

The picture really doesn’t do it justice. I applied it directly after dinner last night and didn’t need a reapplication for four hours, which is impressive when it comes to lipgloss and I. We just don’t normally get along. It’s not heavily scented, thank goodness, and it doesn’t have a ridiculously sweet flavor. That being said, I could definitely taste SOMETHING, but it wasn’t unpleasant at all. I would certainly repurchase this product.

I also got to try the limited edition Fusion Beauty LipFusion Luxe Boudoir Collection. This formula contains tiny, dehydrated, marine collagen micro spheres that absorb instantly and seek out the body’s natural moisture. As soon as the spheres become rehydrated, they plump and hold onto the moisture they’ve collected, creating a mild “swelling” of the lip tissue. The result is fuller, smoother, perfectly plumped lips in seconds. Results can last for up to 48 hours.This special-edition collection was created in partnership with the Seven Bar Foundation ($1 of each purchase goes to the Foundation).

This formula is all about the glitter. Not huge chunks, but colorful shimmer that bring an intensity and depth to the lips that I enjoy. I like to think of these as my “night out” glosses – carry one in your purse for touchups and full lips that could possibly last throughout the night.

Here is Fusion Beauty LipFusion Luxe Boudoir Collection in Vixen:

And Fusion Beauty LipFusion Luxe Boudoir Collection in Coquette:

Since these are limited edition, if you’re interested in them you should probably purchase them sooner rather than later, as we all know what happens to limited edition products!

Strange Invisible Perfume releases two limited edition summer scents

meredith — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 17:33:39 +0000

Niche perfume house Strange Invisible Perfumes will be releasing two limited edition fragrances this summer. Both are created with temple mandarin, which is an extremely rare essence which must be custom distilled alchemically in pure silica glass. Both fragrances are supposed to evoke a sun drenched island in the summer.

Tahitian Honey (0.25 oz., $370) has notes of fresh ginger, temple mandarin, plumeria blossoms, resins, and honey, and was inspired by a summer vacation to Tahiti.

Vacances (0.25 oz., $385) is French for vacation, and has notes of temple mandarin, hemp, jasmine, cedar, black opal, black currant, and honey, and was inspired by an afternoon in the Caribbean.

Strange Invisible Perfumes is a purely botanical perfume house based in Venice, California. Perfumer Alexandra Balahoutis is a committed to fragrances with wildcrafted, biodynamic, and hydro-distilled ingredients. Strange Invisible Perfumes are available at the Strenge Invisible Perfumes boutique in Venice, CA, as well as major cities I wish I lived in such as Woodley and Bunny in Brooklyn, NY, Spa Habitat in Dallas, TX, Knows Perfume in Seattle, WA, and strangely enough, Nettie Jarvis Antiques in Bloomfield, KY. I don’t wish I lived there.

Edited for a spelling error. Oops!