Beauty Blogging Junkie

Hairstyle: Isla Fisher At The Cannes Film Festival

2013-05-20T13:16:00.001-04:00

Isla Fisher looks stunning and very French-Riviera-yacht-party in a ravishing red dress and waves courtesy of Gianndrea. Here's how to get this flowing, voluminously wavy hairstyle she rocked at the Cannes Film Festival.

Begin by applying an ample amount of ECRU New York Volumizing Silk Mist throughout wet hair. After drying excess water from the hair, divide the hair into generous sections with a large round brush and mist with Sunlight Styling Spray before curling the hair onto

large Velcro rollers. Pin the rollers in place and set for 15 minutes.

Next, remove the rollers and use a Mason Pearson brush to amplify the hair’s volume. Draw a small middle part and brush hair into the desired wave position while maintaining maximum volume at the crown for a sexy feel.

Using a 1 inch curling iron, create waves by twisting sections of hair around the rod. Then apply Ecru New York Sunlight Styling Spray to hold and define the waves.

Once the entire head has been waved, brush through the hair to bring the style together. Finish the look by smoothing Ecru New York Silk Texturizing Balm throughout the entire length of the hair to bring out the shine and give hair definition. Set the look with hair spray for hold that will last all day and night.

What do you think of Isla Fisher's hairstyle here?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Makeup: Doutzen Kroes At The 'Jimmy P.: Psychotherapy Of A Plains Indian' Premiere

2013-05-20T12:39:00.000-04:00

My favorite choice for a red carpet is always a red-pink hybrid for the lips and Doutzen Kroes (wearing a Calvin Klein Collection gown designed by Francisco Costa) is wearing pretty much the Platonic ideal of that hue. Here, the model/actress rocks a retro look at the “Jimmy P.: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian” movie premiere in Cannes. Here's how to get her makeup look.

· Infallible Eye Shadow in Amber Rush, $7.95

· Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara in Black, $8.95

· Colour Riche Luminous Lipcolour in British Red , $8.95

· The Super Slim Liner by Infallible in Black, $8.95

· Brow Stylist Custom Brow Shaping Pencil in Black Brown, $8.48

What do you think of Doutzen Kroes' makeup at the Cannes Film Festival?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Makeup: Eva Longoria At The 'Le Passé' Movie Premiere

2013-05-20T12:30:00.001-04:00

At the "Le Passé” movie premiere Eva Longoria looks super-sulrty in a Zuhair Murad dress accessorized with a cat-eye, the best way I know of, how about you? Here's how she achieved the anything but passé makeup look with L’Oréal Paris products.

· Colour Riche Eye Shadow Quad in Army Brat, $7.95

· Telescopic Shocking Extensions Mascara in Blackest Black, $8.95

· True Match Super-Blendable Blush in Barely Blushing, $10.95

· Colour Caresse by Colour Riche Luminous Lipcolour in Cotton Pink, $9.99

· Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner in Black, $8.95

What do you think of Eva Longoria's look here?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Me By Lanvin Fragrance Review

2013-05-20T08:30:00.000-04:00

By Julia Casella

Samantha is right—you have to love yourself. Self -love is a pretty long road but I think it’s paved with good beauty products. Perfume being an essential element as scent is so closely tied to emotion. In her book, The Scent of Desire, Rachel Herz presents her research on smell and how it influences emotion, learning, memory, and social behavior. However, I don’t think she provides specific perfume recommendations (her bio says she consults for “the world’s foremost fragrance and flavor companies” but doesn’t say which ones) so that is where BBJ comes in.

This summer I want you to love yourself by loving Me. No I’m not being narcissistic (although you can feel free to love me) I’m talking about Lanvin’s new fragrance. A sweet blend of blueberry and rose is coupled with sensual notes of licorice and sandalwood. This perfume will make you irresistible to everyone—including yourself.

What's your favorite spring fragrance?

Follow Julia Casella on Twitter: @Julia_Casella.

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

2013 CEW Beauty Award Winners

2013-05-18T13:03:00.002-04:00

The 2013 CEW Beauty Awards winners are...

BATH AND BODY

Bath and Body Mass

Eucerin - Professional Repair Lotion Extremely Dry Skin Lotion

Bath and Body Prestige

Bliss - Fatgirlsixpack

SKINCARE

Acne Treatment

GLAMGLOW, Inc. - Super-mud Clearing Treatment

Anti-Aging Mass

Avon - Anew Clinical Pro Line Eraser Treatment A-F33

Anti-Aging Prestige

philosophy - Full of Promise Treatment Duo for Uplifting Days and Volumizing Nights

Cleanser & Scrub

Fresh, Inc. - Rose Cleansing Foam

Eye Treatment Mass

L'Oréal Paris - Revitalift Triple Power Eye Treatment

Eye Treatment Prestige

Lancôme - Génifique Eye Light-Pearl

Lip Treatment

Fresh, Inc. - Sugar Lip Treatment Advanced Therapy

Moisturizer Mass

Neutrogena Corporation - Naturals Multi-vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer

Moisturizer Prestige

Clinique - Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator

Skincare Tools

NuFACE - Trinity Skin Boosting System with Microcurrent and Red LED

Sun Product

Elizabeth Arden - Prevage Triple Defense Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 50+++

HAIR

Hair Care Product

Ojon™- Rare Blend Oil Total Hair Therapy

Hair Coloring Product

Rita Hazan New York - Foaming Color Gloss in Tones Down Brassiness

Hair Styling Product

Ojon™ - Super Sleek Restorative Blowout Perfector

MAKEUP

Eye Product Mass

Maybelline New York - The Mega Plush Mascara by Volum' Express Mascara

Eye Product Prestige

Dior Beauty - Diorshow New Look Mascara

Face Product Mass

Sonia Kashuk for Target® - Chic Luminosity Bronzer in Goddess

Face Product Prestige

Smashbox Cosmetics - Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting

Lip Product Mass

Sonia Kashuk for Target® - Satin Luxe Lip Color with SPF 16

Lip Product Prestige

Dior Beauty - Addict Extreme Lipstick

MEN'S GROOMING

Jack Black - Dry Erase® Ultra-calming Face Cream

NAIL PRODUCT

Sally Hansen - Salon Insta-gel Strips™

SCENT

Men's Scent

Viktor & Rolf- Spicebomb

Perfumer- IFF

Women's Scent Mass

Coty - Closer by Halle Berry

Perfumer- Firmenich

Women's Scent Prestige

Coty Inc. - Dot Marc Jacobs

Perfumer- Firmenich

INDIE BEAUTY AWARD

Julep™

ECO BEAUTY AWARD*

* Sponsored by Givaudan and vetted by The Natural Step

Nourish | Organic Food For Healthy Skin

QVC BEAUTY QUEST AWARD

Neydharting Moor

BEST SELLER MASS

L’Orèal Paris Colour Riche Nail

BEST SELLER PRESTIGE

Estée Lauder Perfectionist [CP+R] Wrinkle Lifting/Firming Serum

BEST SELLER FRAGRANCE

Lancôme La Vie est Belle

Did any of your favorites win?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Cannes Film Festival Makeup: Georgia May Jagger

2013-05-17T15:45:00.002-04:00

Here's a gorgeous, simple yet retro yet formal look you can easily steal for wedding season. Georgia May Jagger's look was created with Rimmel London’s beauty essentials for the Cannes Film Festival. Here, the beauty breakdown.

Gerogia’s skin was flawless, thanks to Rimmel’s 9in1 BB Cream in Light ($6.99). Her natural fresh face look was then complemented with a light summer glow on her cheekbones using Rimmel’s SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer in Sun Kiss ($7.99).

Georgia’s mesmerizing eyes were accentuated with Rimmel ScandalEyes Shadow Stick in Bad Girl Bronze complemented with Rimmel ScandalEyes Shadow Stick in Bulletproof Beige ($4.49 each) to give a subtle touch of highlight to her eyelids, and perfectly finished with a rich coat of Rimmel ScandalEyes Lycra Flex Mascara in Black ($6.99).

But the real hero to her gorgeous red carpet look was the stunning stand-out signature red Rimmel Moisture Renew Lip Colour in Red Alert ($6.79) that perfectly matched her Rimmel Lasting Finish Pro Nail Lacquer Stiletto Red ($3.99) manicure.

What do you think of Georgia May Jagger's red ravishing moment?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

6 Tips To Refresh Your Makeup Look For Summer

2013-05-17T11:21:00.002-04:00

Summer means lighter formulations, brighter colors, matte blends and long-lasting finishes. Of course, there are many options to choose from whether you want to go bright or natural this season. Here are six of my favorite recommendations for doing both.

1. CC Cream
Say goodbye to last year’s BB creams. Summer's new staple is CC cream — a lightweight color-correcting tinted moisturizer that offers sun protection and anti-aging benefits. I'd slather this stuff on pre-beach or simply with mascara and a punchy lip if I'm running late for work. Try: Olay Total Effects 7 CC Cream.

2. SPF-Infused Everything
If you just can't get your daily dose of sun protection via your moisturizer or a separate SPF, opt for a long-wearing foundation with sunscreen, like CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation, which packs a powerful punch of staying power (even in the most humid conditions) and includes SPF 20.

Tip: Apply some to a cotton ball and keep it in your purse in a plastic baggie for touch-ups throughout the day.

3. Face Sprays
A small spritzer can do wonders to refresh your look. After a particularly grueling subway situation, beach day or even a corporate meeting, a quick spritz on your skin refreshes you and livens up your makeup. Just a small travel-size spritzer filled with water is all you need. If you want to get fancy fresh about it, mix in a little neroli essence (an oil produced from the blossom of a bitter orange tree) or aloe for a soothing effect and spray away if you notice your makeup getting cakey.

Read the rest of this post over at P&G Everyday: bit.ly/13B6uY8.

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue: Behind The Scenes

2013-05-17T09:56:00.003-04:00

Well, nothing highlights just how much you need a vacation like a super-sultry behind the scenes video for a fragrance shot in Capri, now does it? I've been wanting to visit the deeply 1950s isle FOREVER since seeing it as the backdrop of Contempt and it is the set for Dolce&Gabbana's video from the new Light Blue (a classic, beautiful summer scent) campaign debuting this July. The Mediterranean love story features Italian model Bianca Balti and David Gandy, who celebrates his third Light Blue advertising campaign with this episode. The scents return to the glittering sapphire blue waters of Capri under the direction of Mario Testino. It is GORGEOUS.

You like? Tell me your thoughts in the comments.

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

5 Vital Grooming Tips For Men From Sloane Square/The Proper Man's Todd Goldenfarb

2013-05-17T08:07:00.000-04:00

My friend Todd Goldenfarb co-founded men's grooming space Sloane Square Barbers and Shoppe in Miami a few years ago, and now is launching a cheeky fun website to accompany it called The Proper Man. Hailed an online mashup for the modern man's lifestyle, the site boasts style, food, grooming tips and more. Todd's sage advice helped me many a time in college, ("Katz, you really should be wearing white tank tops and jeans. That's what the dudes are into these days.") and now he's dispensing tips to help gentlemen look their best. I hit him up to share his best shaving tricks and beard trends for the summer. Beard conditioner: It's a thing, fellas. Check it.

"1. Facial hair is in. Clooney and Cooper have made the well groomed beard very desirable these days.

2. If you do grow a beard it's important to maintain it. Either find a great barber you can visit every week or make sure you have the right equipment at home to keep it clean and detailed. The Brad Pitt out of control beard is out.

3. Just because you have facial hair it doesn't mean you don't have to keep the skin around the beard and under it in great shape. Exfoliation is key and we like the Microfine Face Scrub from Menscience

4. If you are maintaining your beard at home between visits to the barber (when in Miami, Sloane Square) it is important to soothe the skin after shaving or lining up around your beard. Dove Men + Care is a new, very affordable line that will do the trick. Try the Hydrate after shave balm, it works very well!

5. Keep your beard soft and conditioned. A beard conditioner always works well, but if you don't have one at home, a normal everyday hair condition will work just as well. Try Redken for Men's Finish Up. Smells great and works great."

What are your tips for men? Or your man? Or you, if you're one of the men gay men who reads this site?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Beauty's Own Social Network: Pampadour.com

2013-05-16T13:21:00.002-04:00

Beauty friends--are we pamping yet? Trust me, it's worth the pamp and circumstance.

Pampadour is 2 parts Pinterest, 1 part Facebook and above all, a beauty community for the makeup, skin care and hair obsessed. The site is a place to store virtually all your pretty products—those you want to buy, as well as those that have already become part of your repertoire.

That elusive foundation shade in a series of three numbers, the eyeliner named in Italian with a reference to the works of Dante? With a simple “clip,” you can easily organize them for future reference in your “cloud.” On the site, you can discover and connect to recreate the red carpet looks of major celebrity makeup artists or “pamp” (share a product on another’s page) a product to a friend you think she’ll “adour.” You can upload and tag photos and videos with products that inspire you. All products that are featured, tagged or shared on Pampadour can even be purchased by users via the brands’ websites.
Get involved at Pampadour.com. Add me as a friend and let's pamp!
Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Makeup: Carey Mulligan, Cannes Film Festival

2013-05-15T23:14:00.001-04:00

Carey Mulligan's stunning makeup look at the Cannes Film Festival was created by Georgie Eisdell for NARS Cosmetics. This gal should always rock a red lip, yes? Here's how Eisdell got the look.

“It’s a big statement for her and we wanted to keep this look as modern as possible,” said Georgie Eisdell about the NARS look she created for Carey Mulligan. “I’ve only once created a red lip with her, but I loved the idea of contrast with the pale pink dress. I felt strongly about that being the focus of the look. I knew I wanted to go bold when I saw the dress. I thought a red lip would be so striking.”

Products used:

Light Reflecting Loose Setting Powder

Jungle Red Lipstick

Jungle Red Lipliner

Sex Appeal Blush

What do you think of Carey's long straight locks and bold red lip?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Makeup: Zoe Saldana At 'Star Trek Into Darkness' LA Premiere

2013-05-15T13:12:00.001-04:00

I'm so psyched to see this movie TONIGHT at a super-secret early screening I found out about through my brother (the ultimate Trekkie) for which I booked tickets via an APP 3 months ago. I can't wait to see Chris Pine in a reprise of my favorite role of his, and of course, the lovely Zoe Saldana. At the LA premiere, she looked luminous, thanks to makeup artistVera Steimberg, who created a “chic, French-inspired” look for the “Star Trek Into Darkness” movie premiere. Here's how Steimberg got the look.

LIPS: Deep red lips provided an elegant contrast to the actress’ sheer, nude gown

· Steimberg applied Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Hollywood ($26) to Saldana’s lips. “As soon as I saw the dress, I knew we had to go with a red lip,” she stated.

EYES: Soft browns and metallic golds balanced bold lips

· First, Steimberg mixed Laura Mercier Metallic Crème Eye Colour in Gold and Burnished Copper ($23 each) and applied the combination to Saldana’s eyelids and along the bottom of the star’s lash lines.

· She then lined the inside rims of the eyes using Laura Mercier Eye Pencil in Special Brown ($20).

· Next, she applied Laura Mercier Illuminating Eye Colour in Earth Glow ($24) under Saldana’s eyes, close to her lashes.

· For added definition, Steimberg applied a combination of Laura Mercier Matte Eye Colour in Coffee Ground and Truffle ($23 each) to the outer corners of Saldana’s eyes.

· She added the final touch of glamour by applying multiple coats of Laura Mercier Faux Lash Mascara in Black ($24) to the actress’ top and bottom lashes.

FACE: Illuminated, flawless skin

· Steimberg covered minor imperfections using Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage in SC-6 ($30).

· Next, she lightly dusted Laura Mercier Mineral Illuminating Powder in Candlelight ($32) over the star’s face to create a natural glow.

· Lastly, Steimberg applied Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour in Blaze ($24) to the apples of Saldana’s cheeks to create a natural flush of color.

What do you think of Zoe Saldana's "Into the Darkness" makeup? Chic or what?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Destination: Procrastination

2013-05-15T12:52:00.000-04:00

Win products from Aveda's Smooth Infusion line
[The Luxury Spot]

Wit and sometimes questionable wisdom of Hannah Horvath for Lena Dunham's 27th birthday

[Betty Confidential]

Dina's "cast system" for going about her beauty business with a broken right wrist

[Eye4Style]

If you haven't read it already, Angelina Jolie's op-ed about her mastectomy is incredibly powerful and brave

[NY Times]

Alyssa Shelasky on creating a signature scent

[The Cut]

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Glow Moisture Review

2013-05-15T08:01:00.000-04:00

Your summer must-have? The new Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Glow Moisture.

A prescient, early glow adopter of the '80s.

Hailed a glotion by the brand (great Fictionary word, guys!), this oil-free fluid reinvigorates your Alpha Beta Glow Pad tan (I like to use it every other day, alternating with the aforementioned pads) while minimizing pores and imparting anti-aging skin care benefits. Within one to three hours of application, radiance is renewed and you look as well rested and flawless as you should every day.

The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads retail for $42 at dgskincare.com.

How are you upping your self-tanning game this season?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Unilever Sensitive Skin Twitter Party Wrap-up

2013-05-14T14:26:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all who participated in my Unilever beauty brands #mysensitiveskin Twitter party today! Here, a roundup of some of the best questions and answers throughout the hour.

@n210ss: What is the difference with SPF? Can it be higher?
The main thing is reapplication. You can use a lower SPF if you're diligent about reapplying every couple of hours.

@nicbran74 I have a few patches of skin that never seem to heal.
It could just be dry skin, but if you're in doubt, see a dermatologist.

@confrugal14m What should i do about flaky skin?
for flakes, up your exfoliation! At least 2-3 times a week. Try St. Ives Apricot Scrub!

@momochompers is it possible to become sensitive to products that are for sensitive skin?
Unfortunately, anything is possible when it comes to skin's sensitivity. If you find sensitive products are irritating, make an appointment with your dermatologist to assess the issue.

@DMThoma I have a question How often should I be washing my face is twice a day too much if my skin gets a little dried out?
I'd try washing it only at night if dryness is a problem. You can use just water in the morning or a Simple wipe!

@stephanienola20m Any suggestions to remove eye makeup?
My favorite way to remove makeup is to use Simple Eye Makeup Removing Wipes, which I wrote about today: http://ht.ly/l1EMX

@TammySigond33m What's your pic products 4 10 yr old whose exp. monthly breakouts and has excema (but not on her face).
Simple skin care is great for acne-prone skin, especially the blemish-targeting offerings and oil-free wipes. It won't irritate nor cause breakouts.

Also, during May, when you buy 2 Unilever sensitive skin products at Walgreens, you’ll receive 2,000 Balance Rewards points! Not a Balance Rewards member? Sign up for free here: bit.ly/WalgreensBalance.

Do you have sensitive skin like mine? What do you recommend to keep it looking fabulous?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

MYHABIT Swim & Sun Sale: Summer Essentials

2013-05-14T10:55:00.002-04:00

This post was created in partnership with MYHABIT

I don't know about you, but the weeks leading up to Memorial Day put me in a sartorial PANIC. Every year, it's like I've forgotten how to dress myself for warmer weather and cannot figure out what to wear. It need not be that dramatic, though: All you need are a few key updates and your summer wardrobe is set.

To wit, MYHABIT is hosting a Swim and Sun event that goes live tomorrow. For your most "summer lovin'; had me a blast" effect, the sale will feature shades, beach hats, totes, towels, face creams and more so you'll be prepared for anything the summer brings. I've put together a little list of my favorite MYHABIT offerings for you to check out.

Schutz Embellished Thong Sandal in Skin (May 15, 12PM ET)
A nude T-strap flat with a little bling will take you from beachy weddings to dates to farmer's markets. Brazilian brand Schutz does a phenomenally fly version, right?

Guerlain Terra Cotta Bronzing Powder Light (May 16, 12 PM ET)
My absolute favorite brand for believable bronzer, something you wouldn't think would be so difficult to nail. Matte, a range of shades starting at "vampire" and non-drying. Get involved.

Lanvin Women's SLN 503 Sunglasses (May 16, 12PM ET)

How cool will you look with these perched on your head at brunch or on your face sitting by the pool in a muted red bikini amid the turquoise water? The scene is a veritable photography set with these babies. Stage it with Lanvin, duh.

Charlotte Ronson Josephina Wedge in Red Stripe (May 17, 12PM ET)6, 2013: 12pm EST

Come summer, it's all about a wedge. These are comfortable, cute and even festive for a Fourth of July BBQ.

Chartex Seahorse Towel (May 17, 12PM ET)

Everyone knows seahorses are the most magical aquatic creatures save for dolphins. Everyone. Show your support of the seahorse community with this festive towel. Cute!

Theodora & Calum Zebra Infinity Scarf (May 17, 12PM ET)
A nonchalant infinity scarf keeps you warm at the movies in the summer, where the temperature ranges from ice to arctic, but also makes a summer look feel polished. This one from Theodora & Calum boasts bright colors.

Kelsi Dagger Rebecca Tote in Neon Yellow (May 17, 12PM ET) M

Neutral and neon is my favorite combo for summer and this acid yellow and nude tote from Kelsi Dagger is spot-on for summer.

What items are you looking for for summer?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Makeup: Ginnifer Goodwin At MAC Cosmetics & Vogue Dinner Honoring Prabal Gurung

2013-05-14T10:29:00.001-04:00

This is a perfect date-night makeup look. Actress Ginnifer Goodwin attended the MAC Cosmetics and Vogue-hosted dinner honoring Prabal Gurung with makeup by artist, Mai Quynh. The eyes were the focal point and Mai, mixed two different shades of purple. Here, the beauty breakdown, courtesy of Quynh.

"I started by prepping the skin with La Mer Moistuizer. Then I applied Shiseido Shimmering Cream Eye Shadow in Ice to her eyelid, from the lash line to the crease. I used YSL Ombres 5 Lumieres in 4 Lilac Sky, I mixed the dark purple and the medium purple and applied it over the cream shadow, blending it into the crease and upward. I smudged the dark purple shadow along her lower lash line as well. Then I applied two coats of Lancome Definicils Mascara in Black. I added a few individual lashes from Ardell using Duo eyelash adhesive. For her face, I applied Laura Mercier Oil Free Supreme Foundation in Sunny Beige. Then, I used Dior Skin Radiance Booster Pen in Candle Light 002 under her eyes. For blush, I applied Josie Maran Cream Blush in Sunset to the apples of her cheeks. Once her face is ready, I set the skin with Shiseido Translucent Pressed Powder. Then I brushed on Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 hour Blush in Exposed over the cream blush. For her lips, I applied Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick in 79 Plumetis."

What do you think of this look, beauties?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Buy These: Simple Eye Makeup Remover Pads

2013-05-14T08:47:00.000-04:00

The week after my Browhaus brow resurrection, my eye real estate became a veritable no-fly zone when it came to washing my face, thanks to my regularly scheduled lash extensions (thanks, Courtney Akai!) and now, my newly resurrected brows, which had to be free of skin care and makeup while healing. To quote Top Gun, the pattern was full.

During that time, I attended an event courtesy of Simple, where makeup artist Gita Bass told me about Simple Eye Makeup Remover Pads and they saved my LIFESTYLE then and are continuing to now. Why? Well, regular makeup wipes make me feel wasteful, as I only use them to remove eye makeup unless it's a particularly late night and I'm using them in lieu of washing my face. You can also roll them up into skinny little rolls and really get into the lashline to purge your lashes of liner, shadow and mascara easily. The formula removes even the most stubborn waterproof formulas without oils that can cause that vile "eye fog" we all know and do not love.

Best of all? They're less than $6 on drugstore.com. Snag some soon for summer!

What's your stance on makeup wipes? Are you a regular user?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Sending Smells Through Your Smartphone?

2013-05-13T10:58:00.000-04:00

Is it possible that I'll be able to have you be able to smell my via your smartphone? An app called Scentee and hardware from a company called ChatPerf is on it. Seen in Japan, it works by letting you load a liquid refill into the device, which is then mixed and dispersed into the air at the command of an included app. The company noted some possible uses, like sending a smell to a friend who also has the device, perking up a yoga session, helping you wake up or making a shoot 'em up video game more "interactive" with the odor of, say, gunpowder. It's still a prototype, but the company hopes to bring it to market with a variety of different scents, and launch it for iPhone or Android devices.

What do you think of potential smell-o-vision smartphones?

[Source]

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Skinterrogation: Dr. Neal Schultz On Glycolic Acid

2013-05-13T10:05:00.003-04:00

The Skinterrogation column features Q&A seshes with dermatologists, aestheticians and other major movers and shakers in the skin care industry.

Dr. Neal Schultz is one of the nicest derms in the business and I can also credit him with helping me get my skin look the best it has in YEARS. The secret? Glycolic acid and lots of it, a shocking diagnosis for this Retin-A loving reviewer. Here, I caught up with the glycolic guru about the benefits of exfoliation, whether you can combine glycolic acid with Retin-A and how to apply glycolic acid.

How can we get the best exfoliation?
To get the very best results from your chemical exfoliant, you want to use the optimal strength of the product. The optimal strength for you is the highest strength your skin will tolerate without irritation or inflammation. And you can achieve that optimal strength not by using the highest strength exfoliant right away, but instead by starting with a low strength and gradually increasing it. That's because your skin usually acclimates to the slight potential irritancy of chemical exfoliants over time. So, by starting at a low strength that won't irritate your skin and then by increasing the strength slowly, you can induce tolerance in your skin and achieve optimal exfoliation. To accomplish this you must use a chemical exfoliant that is available in a variety of strengths. That's one of the reasons I love glycolic, the gold standard of chemical exfoliants. Glycolics are available for at home use in strengths varying from one to 20%.

Can you combine glycolic acid and Retin-A?
Retin-A is not compatible with some other exfoliants because of the brittle nature of Retin-A, meaning that it's so easily broken or inactivated by other chemicals, especially acids.

Glycolic acid is sufficiently powerful to inactivate Retin-A if applied at the same time, regardless of which is applied first. You'll get the benefit of the glycolic, which isn't compromised by the brittle Retin-A, but most probably the Retin-A will be inactivated. Fortunately that does no harm to your skin; it simply cancels out the benefit of the Retin-A.

But you can use both Retin-A and glycolic acid in the same skincare regimen as long as they are applied hours apart from each other, such as Retin-A in the morning and glycolic at bedtime. That allows Retin-A to work without interference. And yes, I said Retin-A in the morning.... The increased sun sensitivity from Retin-A is cumulative and occurs after many days of use and doesn't depend on what time of the day you use it. So as always, sunscreen is a must.

How should we apply glycolic acid?
As with any active ingredient, to get its full benefit you must prep by cleansing the skin. Your cleanser and toner will synergize to remove excess oils, dirt, debris and loose dead cells. And after finishing wiping with your toner, give it half a minute to completely evaporate, or take a soft cotton ball and gently remove any excess. You're now ready to apply your glycolic! If you're using a glycolic serum or gel, apply just a few drops with your finger to each side of your face and spread them all over, avoiding the eye area. If using glycolic pads, gently wipe your entire face, always avoiding the eye area. If you have a glycolic cream, put a pea sized amount in your palm and with a finger from your other hand dab tiny bits all over your face, again avoiding your eye area and then spread it around. I recommend using glycolic at bedtime. It should be the first product applied after you cleanse and tone. With one exception: if you're using a blemish spot treatment and a glycolic in a cream vehicle, apply the spot treatment first.

Thanks, Dr. Schultz! Don't forget to check out his BeautyRX Skincare line here, chock full of glycolic acid infused items. My favorite? The Gentle Exfoliating Eye Therapy Cream, with, you guessed it, a mild dose of glycolic acid.

What's your exfoliation method of choice?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Kate Moss Is The New Face (& Body) Of St. Tropez

2013-05-11T17:01:00.002-04:00

Kate Moss is no stranger to representing beauty brands, and now the beautiful Brit has partnered with legendary self-tanning brand St. Tropez as its face. What do you think of this partnership? And hot campaign photo, right?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Three Easy Makeup Tips For Moms

2013-05-10T13:12:00.003-04:00

Moms have the most difficult job of all — it's a 24-hour gig (no sick days or weekends). These ladies are busy, busy, busy on a level to which I can barely even relate: I find it difficult to make sure I myself am taken care of at all times throughout the day.

Here, we salute these women on their selflessness and offer some makeup mastering techniques to help them look a little more glamorous in their career of caretaking.

1. Make The Most of Multitaskers
Why rock a separate moisturizer, sunscreen, foundation and concealer when you can whittle that list down to two items? Such workhorse products are the quickest, easiest route to a finished face. Look for BB creams (Olay Fresh Effects BB Cream is a multitasking dream) and eye cream/concealer combos (like CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Concealer). Both impart moisture while covering up any redness, hyperpigmentation and dark circles you'd prefer not to feature.

2. Be A Stain-iac on Your Skin

Lip and cheek stains are the equivalent of a dream personal assistant. They are ever so helpful, hanging around until the end of time and making you look good as you go about your day. Score a peach, plum or rose shade that'll look just as fabulous on your cheeks as it does on your pout. Opt for CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain in Flirty Nude (a peachy hue), Everbloom Kiss (a perfect rose) or Sassy Mauve (a plummy pink-purple hybrid).

Read the rest over at P&G Everyday: bit.ly/YKz21K.

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

The Eleventh Hour Mother's Day Gift Guide

2013-05-10T08:08:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite on-screen mothers, "Beaches'" Leona Bloom, here with C.C. Fun fact: Lainie Kazan is so good at playing ethnic mothers, she's done it several times, also notably in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."

Mother's Day is on SUNDAY, my glamberous ones. What are we GETTING for our moms? I'm still figuring out Carol's gift (#late). Last year my brother and I got her an iPhone and for her birthday we got her a Kindle. There's nothing else she needs to bring her kicking and screaming into the 21st century technology-wise, so we're at a loss! In the meantime, some beauty-related gift ideas for the last-minute among us.

TATCHA's NEW Okasan Mother's Day Gift Set ($135) This beautifully packaged set includes an Ageless Revitalizing Eye Cream and an exclusive Japanese Green Tea from Kyoto in a collectible tin.

Pixi Daylight Glow Collection ($28) A collection of sheer pink and gold hues for lips, lids and tips encased in a quilted pink bag at a very reasonable price point.

Clarisonic Radiance Revival Clarisonic Plus with Lancome Set ($225) Contains everything mom needs for smooth, flawless skin for face and body plus one of the best self-tanners in all the land. If your mom hasn't been converted to the cult of Clarisonic, she'll appreciate this inauguration.

What are you getting your mom for Mother's Day?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Throwback Thursday Hair Ad: Herbal Essences Fruit Infusions

2013-05-09T16:11:00.001-04:00

The '90s, a young Buster Bluth and Herbal Essences. Enjoy this organic experience!

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

Fictionary: Stresstival

2013-05-09T08:45:00.000-04:00

Fictionary is a column showcasing beauty-related words that don't exist, but should.

Different water can mean the difference between phenomenal hair and Vegas hair. It can also be the final nail in the coffin when it comes to my skin, causing a travel-related blemish. I've fine-tuned my travel skin care routine to a science so as to minimize the possibility of flare-ups, opting for a makeup-free flight at all times, and even a little Retin-A so I can exfoliate while I escalate to 40,000 feet. But even that can only do so much. Because travel + different water + packing + squeezing in as much work as I can before leaving = a Stresstival.

My new ammunition against it? Kiehl's Skin Rescuer, a daily hydrator designed to fight the signs of stress. It treats, calms and hydrates with chamomile extract, glycerin and shea butter, so it doesn't skimp on moisture. It limits the release of stress signals to the skin with rosa gallica extract, and protects the skin barrier from future reactions, thanks to mannose, squaline and a blend of ceramides. The result? Smooth, soft skin--and it's not just me, beauty friends. 100% of the participants in Kiehl's clinical trial showed skin improvement.

Look, be a damsel in distress anxiously awaiting "Backdraft"'s Brian
McCaffrey in all other aspects of life if you must, but save your own damn skin with Kiehl's.

Kiehl's Skin Rescuer retails for $40 at kiehl's.com. Do you experience travel-related skin issues?

Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.