Barb's Beauty Tips for Babes Over 60

Beauty Balm

2013-04-05T16:40:00.000-04:00

                                  ONE OF THE BEST NEW BEAUTY PRODUCTS

Maybe you've noticed one of the newest beauty products on the market. It actually crawled in under my radar and onto the shelves without attracting my attention. A sales person at the Body Shop first introduced me when I said I was looking for a tinted moisturizer. " Try this," She held a small tube marked BB. "It's Beauty Balm" I then recalled seeing ads for it but they had failed to pique my interest. So many products .. so little time. She must have read my mind. "Just give it try. It's a bit different from what else is out there.
I smoothed some over my face and checked the mirror. My skin had that luminous glow I'm forever in search of. Best of all it didn't look like I was wearing makeup

Beauty Balm, I think originated in Asia . It is a combination of primer, color, moisturizer and sunscreen.    It is light and impacts a nice healthy look when you chose the right shade (go lighter rather than darker). It's inexpensive. Maybelline's, which I tried next was under $10. I then moved on to Cover Girl (also good )and L'Oreal which is marketed for mature skin and is a little more moisturizing than the others. However it didn't impart as much color.

On a trip to Sephora, I found that they too had hopped on the Beauty Balm bandwagon with everyone from Benefit to Dior hawking their versions. I decided to be extravagant and try a high end balm. After taking a good look at my face the salesperson returned with a jar. This BB was a water based gel and was one of several from a line I had never heard of, Dr. Jart. The product was rather thick and not easy to apply.I was skeptical,but she was convincing and I had a train to catch so I put another $35plus tax on my credit card and took it home.   If there was a glow, I couldn't see it and the gel like texture wasn't to my liking.     Back it went no questions asked. For now I'm sticking with the drug store brands .
The balm is a great idea for those of us who like to think we really don't need foundation but look much better with it. Foundation? Me? Of course not! Just a little BB Balm.

Cheers,

Barb

2012-09-30T17:03:00.002-04:00

HOW TO GET THAT YOUTHFUL LOOK

Maybe you've noticed them too. I'm talking about women whose faces appear to have landed on the wrong bodies .The face is usually taut and unlined. It looks maybe forty or fifty but the body is a different story. It has little to do with size although a very small thin woman may look like an odd child and slack skin on the rest of the body is at odds with a smooth face. However it's posture and pace that are the real giveaways .

Too many of us ignored our mother's admonishments to stand up straight. One of my mother's favorite tips for a youthful look was to lift from the ribcage. This simple and easy to hold adjustment automatically flattens the stomach, squares the shoulders and is not a hard position to maintain.

I recently discovered that don't walk as fast as I used to. It's not that I'm unable to pick up the pace but rather that if I don't give it some concerted thought, I tend to amble along. So now I'm making a new effort to be mindful of my posture and pace, hell bent on projecting that youthful energetic look no matter what my age.

HOW TO LOOK GOOD IN YOUR UNDERWEAR

2011-10-05T12:32:00.000-04:00

Time was when those communal dressing rooms didn't intimidate me. Not that I ever had a knockout figure; no matter what my age and weight my thighs were chunky and despite all the marathons run and ballet classes taken they could best be described as flabby
However I subscribed to the no body's perfect school of thought and had little trouble disrobing until recently. While makeup, botox and other procedures may rescue our faces, there's no easy fix for an aging body. Skin loses it's firmness; it wrinkles, creases and hangs and broadcasts our real age like nothing else.    Exercise may help a bit, as will self tanner or a body stocking if you're really desperate, but none work magic Our darker skinned sisters fare better because their skin tends to be thicker.

So what's the answer ?A bit of camouflage and enhancement is in order. Devote more time and attention to your underwear purchases especially when it comes to color . Chances are few of us would appear on the beach in a white or flesh colored bathing suit.    (Again darker skinned women can take a pass on this part of the advice). Nothing makes a pale older body look worse than white or nude. Banish those colors from your underwear drawer. More flattering is black, other deep shades or even a print. Take the same amount of time shopping for underwear that you do for the rest of your wardrobe. I would usually whip my way through the lingerie department guessing at size and hoping for flattery. I made lots of mistakes.
Fit is all important and too big is as bad as too small; no droopy drawers or loose bras. Bypass the cotton or any thing else matte and look for fabric with a bit of shine and some percentage of stretch The garment should hug your contours with out squeezing. A flattering underpant style is the high cut brief. It helps flattens the stomach and lengthens the leg. An under wire bra works best for most sizes and gives good support. If your breasts are small look for a slight push up. I've found that Soma makes well fitting bras for our age group. They have wide side panels that hold in any extra flesh and are sexy too No matter what style you pick don't forget a hint of lace.
It never occurred to me to have a bra fitted but lately more and more of my friends have taken that step and have been happy with the result. And think of using self tanner (Jergens has several] . Any body, no matter what its shape, looks much better with a glow. Who says you can't look sexy after 60?

2011-06-10T14:59:00.000-04:00

My Husband the Metro-Sexual?
My husband blew in from a windy round of golf looking ruddy cheeked as Santa
"Would you have any moisturizer?" he asked. Does Poland Springs have water? It was only a matter of which to chose. I quickly produced one from Kiehl's and mentioned that they, among many other cosmetic companies are now producing skin care lines especially for men. Always at the ready for any excuse to go cosmetic shopping, I offered to pick him up some. At this point he was busy cruising the TV channels and just nodded.
A few weeks later I left a tube of Keihl's Facial Fuel Moisturizer on the bathroom counter and because I couldn't resist and secretly thought he would use it, a tube of Eye Alert also from their men's collection . He thanked me and then in a gruff voice asked, "What's this eye stuff?"I assured him it was good and would help with puffiness and undereye circles. Maybe it was my imagination but he appeared a bit taken back. I heard no more about these additions to his grooming routine until a couple of months later when he asked for replacements.

Can a man on the far side of 60 be labeled a metro-sexual? My six year old granddaughter who has never heard that word describes her grandfather as a neat and tidy man. When asked what that meant, she said . "You know he wears shirts with collars in all really pretty colors,his hair is never messy and he always smells good."

She's right. Her grandfather is always well groomed but it's more than that. You'll never catch him in shorts and a tee shirt unless he's gardening and he doesn't own a pair of jeans. His closet is more full and colorful than mine and he spends considerable time picking out the perfect tie or after shave lotion. His shoes are always polished and you'll never see him in need of a shave.
Yes, grooming and clothing are definite priorities but he does have his limits. While some men his age may resort to dying their hair or may dye or wax their chest hair in lieu of decorating it with gold chains, such sleaze is not for him. He's comfortably settled for a full head of white hair and his only jewelry is a vintage Rolex and his wedding ring. Still I do envision a future when his collection of skin care products may rival mine and why not?
Definitions of metro-sexual abound on the web and I've been browsing them to see if my husband qualifies. Most say the word refers to a young straight urban man who is concerned about his appearance, enjoys the art of decorating, and sophisticated living.
OK so he's not young but I've yet been left to decorate any living space on my own without significant input and a lot of arguing from him. And although I may carry on about them initially, his choices in general, are successful. He knows his way around the kitchen too and has a full repertoire of dishes that he enjoys making. My favorite definition of a metro sexual says that this person also makes great cocktails. No doubt about that . My husband has a stellar reputation as a maker of the perfect martini and his daughters would testify that he also whips up a powerful cosmo.
So call him neat and tidy or metro-sexual. Either way I'm glad he's mine and I'll drink to that.

Cheers, Barb

BEAT COSMETIC COMPANIES AT THEIR OWN GAME

2011-05-28T10:28:00.000-04:00

Bobbie Brown does it. So does Benefit,Nars and a host of others. What I'm talking about are those two in one products a cream formula color stick marketed to be used on lips and cheeks. I'm all for it. There's nothing like paring down the amount of cosmetics you tote around to make you feel like a natural beauty. However there's but no need to rush to Sephora to add another product to an already burgeoning collection. We already have multiple use products tumbling out of our makeup drawers and bags. It's just a matter of using a little creativity
A lipstick can easily duplicate as a blush, in fact many makeup artists have long used it as such. The trick in to have well moisturized skin at the site of application. It's also vital to blend well.
Concealer is probably your most versatile product. Nix the eyeshadow base the makeup consultants will tell you is a must; concealer applied with a brush works just as well. And here's a confession: I substitute concealer for eyeshadow itself on a regular basis. When used along with eyeliner and mascara, it gives a natural look that works well for daytime.
The possibilities for double uses are endless. When my daughter was in college she made her own tinted moisturizer be mixing a small amount of foundation with moisturizer. And speaking of moisturizer never ever discard or give it away. what wrecks havoc with your face will be heaven for your feet!
Cheers,
Barb

Put Away That Hand Lotion!

2011-05-10T11:11:00.000-04:00

As usual I wasn't paying attention as I squeezed some sunblock out of the tube. I had already generously coated my face and messaged some over my throat but my hands were still covered with the stuff.
I was trying a new one from Bath and Body Works, True Blue Spa. The first listed active ingredient is Avobenzone which is proven to protect against those dreaded UVA rays, the ones responsible for aging . At $12. for six ounces I didn't want to waste the remainder of the lotion and so rubbed it on the backs of my hands
Those hands haven't been looking so good lately despite my being more diligent about moisturizing them. I even went so far as to invest in creams and lotions just for that body part instead of using what ever I had.
About an hour later as I was typing, I glanced down at my hands. They didn't have their usual dried out, dull look. The skin even looked a bit thicker and much smoother than it had in quite awhile.
All and all it's a good purchase, a multi purpose product that's both enhancing, protecting and water-proof
Give it a try.
Cheers,
Barb

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A NEW MOISTURIZER..........

2011-03-26T14:43:00.006-04:00

A reader messaged me recently saying she was looking for a new moisturizer. She wasn't looking for a miracle transformation just something that would be well absorbed, moisturize her skin,and keep it looking its best. She also hoped the product wouldn't cost a fortune
Well she got me at the right time because I've been doing a bit of moisturizer research myself. After years of using Cliniques, Super Defence Moisturizer I decided it was time for a different one Not that I was displeased with my old choice. I liked the way it was absorbed , loved the glow in gave my skin and the way it felt. However it contained oxybenzone as one of it primary ingredients which made the red spots ever lurking just beneath the skin on my left cheek rise to the surface and become scaly. (See prior post What the Dermatologist said for the entire story) So it was farewell to Super Defence and its glow because I still believe it was the oxybenzone that supplied it
I took up my search for a replacement using my usual tactics of trying out various samples at department store cosmetic counters and Sephora Most were over $40.and not that all impressive. I'm also trying to cut down on my beauty product spending and decided to hit the mass market stores.
My sister-in-law had mentioned how much she liked Boots No7 products The line comes from Great Britain and is carried by Target After losing my self among their vast array of Boots products I purchased their Advanced Hydration Day Cream ($14.99 ) and decided to give it a try.
Bingo! It went on smoothly, had a rich creamy texture and was nicely absorbed. The best part was that it kept me skin feeling moisturized all day both with and without makeup and I didn't get that tight dry feeling mid afternoon which as been a complaint of mine with some of the other drug store moisturizers. Unlike most other mass market store lines, Boots does very little advertising which of course keeps the price down. Stay tuned . Ill be checking out other products from them.
Cheers,
Barb
PS Serums are the latest entry on the path to perfect skin. I've yet to try them but would love to hear from anyone who has

HOW TO LOOK GREAT IN A DRESS

2010-09-24T09:48:00.000-04:00

Dresses made a major resurgence a few seasons back and being a fan of one step dressing I welcomed their return. However they've been a disappointment. They look great on the rack and I grab armfuls to try on, only to find that when I do their attractiveness vanishes. They just hang and are not at all flattering. Many friends my age voice the same opinion and it got me to thinking.

Back in the nineties and late eighties, dresses were the mainstay of my wardrobe and I recall no problem with the fit. So what's different? As I stood in the dressing room fussing with a dress tugging at the hem, lifting it at the shoulder, and tying the belt in different places, I suddenly knew; it needed shoulder pads. I'm not talking those mammoth Dynasty ones here just a moderate pad that helps give a garment shape and affects the way it fits and hangs. As we grow older most of us, despite time spent at the gym and maintaining a constant weight still tend to get a bit round shouldered which can throw our bodies out of proportion. A shoulder pad can work wonders. Why do you think they never banished them from men's wear?

WHAT THE DERMOTOIGIST SAID

2010-07-20T14:31:00.001-04:00

After peering at my rough red scaly (and ugly) patches through the glass that appears attached to his eye, my dermatologist pronounced then all pre- cancerous. One was more suspicious looking than the others so he biopsied it and said that he would scrape the rest at my next appointment.
As soon as I heard pre cancerous I was ready with my question. Could the problem possibly be caused by oxybenzone? He shook his head no almost before I got the word out. I told what I had read but he reiterated that it wasn't the cause. I then told him how many products I used that contained the drug but he stuck to his guns and at that point I detected a slight note of impatience.
A few days later he called to say that the one he had deemed suspicious was not malignant but rather odd. He'd scrape it with the rest.
I've decided to use what ever products I have that contain Oxybenzone but not to buy any more containing it in the future. What about you?
Cheers,
Barb

COULD YOUR SUNSCREEN CAUSE SKIN CANCER?

2010-06-29T09:56:00.002-04:00

I'm not an alarmist and I did careful research research before I even considered writing the above headline. But if your sunscreen or sunblock contains Oxybenzone the answer to the question posed is a resounding yes.
In 2009, The Environmental Working Group, a public nonprofit health and environmental research and advocacy organization based in Washington DC, studied almost 1000 brand name sunscreens Three in five did not adequately protect skin from the sun or contained harmful chemicals Among the most harmful is Oxybenzone. It absorbs ultraviolet light but can also be absorbed through the skin. Oxybenzone is allowed in sunscreens but recent research has linked it to allergies, hormone disruption and cell damage that can lead to skin cancer. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention that did the study in 2008 showed that 97% of the American it tested were contaminated with Oxybenzone.
So why is it still in use? Unfortunately the Federal Drug and Food Administration which regulates sunscreen safety has not updated mandatory sunscreen standards in more that 30 years.
The news sent me scurrying to my stockpile of sunscreens. Sure enough there it was listed as the fifth ingredient on Coppertone Ultra Guard. Then on a whim I checked my favorite moisturizer, which I've been using regularly for the past three years, Clinique superdefense Spf 25. Oxybenzone was there too, only this time it headed the list. I also found it in Chanel Precision Hydramax active teinte.

I have four small dry red spots on my cheek. I've had them for months and no matter what I try nothing works on them . Now I'm wondering if they could be the result of Oxybenzone. I've made an appointment with my dermatologist

Stay tuned.
Cheers,
Barb

HAVE YOU TRIED OLAY'S PROFESSIONAL PRO X?

2010-06-10T14:58:00.000-04:00

It seems as if the Olay brand been around forever. I recall that for years it was represented by one product, Oil of Olay. It graced the shelves of drug store and mass marketers and was used mostly by the no nonsense beauty consumer. Those who knew they needed something to smooth on their faces but weren't too fussy, just so long as the price was right. I tried it once when I was on a fugal kick but didn't like it or its scent.
A decade or so ago they raised their profile by expanding their product line along with their advertising. Now the shelves overflow with confusing choices. There's Olay Total Effects, Olay Definity and Regenerest. Each line promises something slightly different than the others. I found the ad copy tiring to read and also had difficulty deciding whether my main problem was lack of definition, skin clarity or maybe my dysfunctional moisture barrier. Then there was the decision concerning the delivery system. Would I best be helped by a cream or a serum?
Since when did skincare get so complicated? Olay's stock really rose when Good Housekeeping declared that their Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream provided results comparable to a $3oo product. I would have invested in a jar but I was unable to find one amid all their other offerings. This is a time when a sales consultant would be helpful.
However OLAY at that point got carried away and not too long ago came out with New Olay Professional Pro X It touts a new anti-aging breakthrough that sounds familiar and guarantees younger looking skin in 28 days. The ad show a prescription like symbol and the product is said to have been developed by a team of dermatologists. Their names are listed in a full page ad in the New York Times. I guess we are to assume this latest product is similar to botox or collegen however there is a very small disclaimer saying that results are not the same as a surgical procedure.What it is, is costly at $69.00 for a starter kit of three of the line's six products.
Olay is now edging up in price toward the department store brands minus the service and advice and I can't imagine what their rationale is. I've not tried it but would be very interested to hear from anyone who has.

HELP FOR PUFFY EYES AND DARK CIRCLES

2010-06-09T11:22:00.000-04:00

I found out that even if you're had your lower lids done as I did a while back you still have to be on the alert . I thought I had been keeping close watch but one day two puffs magically appeared at the corners of my eyes. No matter what their cause;lack of sleep, allergies or too much of the grape, they called for action. The eye cream I diligently messaged them with had little effect .

That's why I was impressed when I saw a new product, Garner Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti Puff Eye Roller.I read the ingredients, looked at the$13.99 price tag but was skeptical and decided I didn't want to add it to my already burgeoning collection. Then in another store,while shopping for a new mascara, I saw the same product packaged with a free full size mascara for the same price and I couldn't resist.

Well said mascara was a bust. The wand is so pliable that there's no just snapping it back into the case. It takes a few tries before it goes in without bending. The Roller however is great. It's cool and soothing and goes on quickly dispensing a measured amount of the product. They suggest you roll it back and forth from the inner to the outer corner twice morning and night. It contains caffeine to fight the puffiness and discolorations and a form of VitaminB.I've been using it for a month now and those puffs and discolorations are things of the past.

THE SECRET TO BRIGHTER EYES

2009-04-24T12:49:00.011-04:00

Well at last I've found them. For the past few years I've been intrigued by the mention in numerous articles of ROHTO eyedrops. Top models are quoted as saying that they are the secret to their bright eyed look. The drops can be counted on to do the trick no matter how they partied the night before. Just a couple of squirts make eyes whiter and brighter.
I have sensitive eyes, the kind that tend to be red around the rim whether I've partied or not. As I've gotten older they've gotten drier and become even more sensitive. They look like my mother's. She suffered from the same problem and was a big consumer of Visine
I scoured the shelves of several drug stores looking for them to no avail. A stop at Sephora was met with a horrified "We wouldn't sell anything that you actually put in your eyes." Further research found that ROHTO eye drops were manufactured in Japan and not available in the US. I stopped looking
Then one day when I was sorting out the available eye drops at my local pharmacy there they were, a standout in an attractive oval acrylic and green container. 5$ on the counter and they were mine.
And yes they do work. My eyes feel refreshed, they look clear, the whites a blue white with nary a speck of red. "Turn around bright eyes"

Cheers,
Barb

WHAT TO TAKE TO FLORIDA

2009-04-19T10:55:00.003-04:00

I 've been on hiatus for a while but now I'm back and intend to be posting weekly.
A reader wrote to ask what tips I may have to help spiff up her look for a Florida vacation without spending a bundle.
Look no further than your nearest Target! First head for the sun care department and pick up a sunblock made for babies. It works well on our delicate skin too and you can be sure it won't sting eyes or irritate.
Next head for accessories. They have a great selection of broad brimmed straw hats that will give even more protection besides giving you a touch of elan. If you don't need prescription glasses pick up a pair of over sized sun glasses. Instant glamor with out a hint of makeup. Why do you think celebrities go for this look.?You may want to pick up one of their cloth hobo style beach bags to sling over your shoulder while you're there. They are roomy, lightweight, stylish and inexpensive.
Next stop jewelery. What you're looking for is a chunky turquoise necklace in a short to medium length. It can dress up a tee shirt, look great peeking out from the collar of a white shirt, maybe worn open with a cami underneath. It also dresses up a plain black shift. If you only buy one thing this summer this should be it. Just make sure it isn't too delicate. At our age bold jewelry looks great and makes a statement You'll be surprised at how many colors this shade can work with and how stylish you'll look,
Final stop, cosmetics. Revlon Renewist is still my favorite lipstick, It's moisturizing , gives a little gloss and stays on better thn most. Coral Fixation is a great color for those warm climates
Neutrogena has a new automatic eye pencil that goes on smoothly and lasts. Try it in pewter. It's less harsh than black and in flattering to all eye colors. If you're in a rush just underline the lower lid from the corner to the mid eye point. You'd be surprised how that can define the eye.

For mascara try CoverGirl's LASHBLAST Get the waterproof one even if you're planning on staying land locked and you won't have to worry about smudges.
That's it. Just remember to stand up straight,lift from the rib cage and smile!

GET A CONCEALER THAT REALY WORKS!

2009-02-23T15:25:00.015-05:00

My cache' of concealers is considerable. Chanel shares space with. Maybelline, CoverGirl and others. None provide that flawless look I'm seeking. I either appear washed out, have that dreaded raccoon look, or my under eye shadows are still in evidence. My skin is fair and most cosmetic advisers take one quick look and present me with their lightest shade.
Not too long ago I finally hit on the right color. Wandering through Sephora, I found a concealer that had a great consistency and good coverage.(Amazing Concealer) They were out of the light shades so on a whim, because it was one of those things that I just had to have, I tried the medium. Bingo! There was great coverage without the hint of a shadow and there was a slight touch of pink that added instant brightness. I had found that elusive FLAWLESS!

Too many of us pick a shade lighter than our foundation or skin when the answer actually is something just a bit darker that covers what we're looking to cover. I recently read that Bobbie Brown recommends brushing a bit of bronzer over the undereye area to warm it up before applying concealer. I haven't tried it but I've sworn off those the paler shades for good.
Amazing Concealer is hard to find and expensive although it does last for about a year. A less costly alternative is L'Oreal Visable Lift Eye. It's not as thick as Amazing Concealer but I've used the medium( 178 )shade with good results.

One Minute Makeup

2008-11-22T11:20:00.001-05:00

Okay I admit I may be vain but barefaced isn't my best look and it's amazing what a big difference just a little bit of makeup makes. Now I've come up with a quick way to avoid being caught with a naked face that I'd like to share with kindred souls. Just four products; I keep mine in a small see through, easy to grab makeup case and one minute of time and we're good to face the world.
1. Stick of cream concealer. ( I use Cover Girl for this purpose) apply under eyes, on eyelids and on any really noticeable discolorations. Blend.
2 A charcoal gray pencil eyeliner. (I like Maybelline's automatic pencil) Starting from the outer corner of the lower lid draw a line along the lash line stopping just after mid eye.
3. Black or dark brown mascara Apply a coat of mascara to top lashes only
4.A creamy lipstick I like Revlon Renewist in Coral Fixation it really brightens the face works well for most complexions. Then put a large dot of that same lipstick on your the outer edge of your cheekbones and blend well.
I timed this and it took me a few seconds under a minute. I'm known to be slow so you may do even better.
Cheers,
Barb

Barb's Best Lipstick Buys

2008-11-02T10:30:00.002-05:00

There's good news for those of us looking for ways to tighten our economic seatbelt. When it comes to slashing your beauty budget there's no need to look further than your drugstore or mass market retailer.(read Walmart)
In recent years the quality gap between department store brands and those of the mass marketers has narrowed considerably. Where you will find a major difference is in packaging and the the absence of the over eager and pushy beauty consultant. While it's nice to flash a fancy lipstick case or pressed powder compact it's even better to save upwards of $15. As for the beauty consultant, I've already done the leg work.
When I need a quick beauty fix I've long headed for the drug store cosmetic aisle. Those of you who follow my blog know that I've found plenty of bargains there among them two lipsticks that have my Repeat Purchase Seal Of Approval.

Revlon RenewestLipcolor is one . Its Pro-Collagen Moisture Care claims to instantly boost moisture by 80% while reducing the appearance of fine lines. It glides on, stays on longer than most and leaves your lips noticeably moist and smooth with just a hint of gloss. It also contains an SPF 0f 15 and comes in 24 shades. I love Raspberry Rush so much that I've just purchased my third tube. It's only downside is the case which is clear plastic and would never be mistaken for a high end brand. At under $9, just let your gorgeous lips speak for themselves.

Rimmel London also has a winner in their Lasting Finish Intense Wear Lipstick, The colors here, 30 of them, are more intense but they too are soft, smooth and feel good on your lips. They claim the color is locked in for up to 8 hours. I'd say a bit less but it did pass my two hour ballet class litmus test. At under $5 it's a beauty bargain! The color selection is great and the case passable!
Cheers,
Barb

HELP FOR STRESSED SKIN

2008-10-22T17:33:00.000-04:00

A while back a friend rhapsodized about the powers of a Nivea Creamy Oil (no longer in their product line) and of course I had to try it. About a half hour after rubbing it into my skin, I stood before my husband with arms and decollete smooth,glowing and craving a compliment. He reached out, touched me and quickly pulled his hand away. "What's that sticky stuff?"

That was it for me even though my dermatologist had advised that my severe dry skin would best be remedied with a combination of oil and lotion. It was also why I was a bit hesitant to try Dove's newest entry in the moisturizer market. DOVE CREAM OIL.Blame it on the chill in the air or the dryness in the house but in fall my skin yearns for more moisture. Despite fastidious use of sunblock summer's stronger rays still have a way of sneaking in and leaving their imprint on skin. Mine seems dryer and rougher and so I decided to give Dove a try.
My head still wrapped in a towel I applied it right after showering. It has a silky texture, smoother and thinner than Nivea's. By time I shook out and combed my hair it was completely absorbed and I was even able to pull on my ballet tights and leotard with out thinking they were being moisturized too! Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Cheers,
Barb

ABSOLUTE BEST BEAUTY BUY

2008-08-14T09:49:00.004-04:00

I've been spending the summer in a place that knows not of Sephora or Saks and Walmart has become the sole source of my beauty fix. I've been pleasantly surprised by the extraordinary selection and the sometimes incredible buys I've found there.
They must have some sort of arrangement with mass market cosmetic manufacturers to bundle products together and offer them as specials. Just yesterday I found my current favorite mascara, Cover Girl's Lash Blast in very black packaged with their Perfect Point Plus Self Sharpening Eye Pencil,(charcoal and Eye Enhancers Shadow in french vanilla.
All items are full sized and the package comes in different color combos.
I usually pay around $7.00 for the mascara alone! The package was $9.99.
I may just have to add Walmart to my list of cosmetic sources year round!

BEWARE THAT SPF!

2008-07-19T08:59:00.000-04:00

Why? Because it's misleading. For years I've been tracking those numbers, secretly applauding as they rose from a mere 2 on Coppertone back in the 1970's to a whopping 75 on a recent purchase of Neutorgena. I felt virtuous and smart when I purchased a host of different moisturizers over the years both for my face and body with an SPF of 15 or higher. Not only was I moisturizing my paper dry skin,I was protecting it too and saving time in the process.
Unfortunately I was wrong. SPF refers to Sun Protection Index. It's number indicates the amount of time you can stay in the sun after applying the product without burning . It protects only against the UVB rays that cause sunburn but does not protect against the UVA rays that penetrate deep into the skin and cause premature aging and skin cancer. You need what is known as a broad spectrum sunscreen, one that states that it protects against UVA andUVB rays. Most often that protection is afforded by either by trademarked combinations such as Parasol, Helioplex or Mexoryl or ingredients such as Zinc Oxcide,Avobenzone, Homosalate or Octisalate. Read those labels before you purchase.
Cheers, Barb

A SHOE WITH THE GYM BUILT-IN??

2008-07-07T18:01:00.008-04:00

FitFlops are billed as a flip flop with a gym built in. I figured it was just one more advertising ploy but the $49.00 price tag for what appeared to be a regular flipflop made me do a bit of investigating.
Manufactured in the UK the shoe was developed by biomechanists at the Centre For Human Performance at London's South Bank University. They claim the shoe improves core muscle strength, absorbs shock on feet, knees, and back along with strengthening and toning muscles in the feet, legs, stomach, and buttocks.
Well that was enough for me. Core strength is key for success in ballet and mine is still not up to speed. Those FitFlops had my name on them except that they were completely sold out at my local branch of Macy's. Want morphed in to need and so trying not to think about the gas involved,I drove to the next nearest department store where I found them although not in the silver or bronze that I had in mind.
The FitFlop contains a unique softer mid sole, engineered to recreate the gait of barefoot walking but with a built in microwobbleboard workout enhancing effect. Most important, I found them to unbelievably comfortable. After years of running and ballet my feet have been screaming for relief. I was one step away from the podiatrist's office after suffering for the past year with a self diagnosed Morton's Neuroma and the beginning of a bunion on my big toe. In search of comfort I was changing shoes on the average of five times a day. I decided to test the FitFlop by wearing them around the house at first. They felt good, so much so that I forgot to change to my sneakers when I took the dog out for a walk and didn't even realize it until after I had all but sprinted up a steep hill. After a half hour walk I didn't feel the need to kick them off when I returned home but I did read the rest of the promotional material which among other things promised increased speed of movement and a faster and more energy expending walk.
Well that explained my quick assent up the hill. My excitement over this shoe is mounting. Now if only they help strengthen my core, there may just be a double pirouette in my future! Stay tuned.
Cheers, Barb

TIPS FOR THINNING HAIR

2008-06-18T09:52:00.010-04:00

As my friend Lyn tells it she was crouched on the floor of the shower stall, naked save for reading glasses, and counting her hairs that were caught in the drain. Normal hair loss is anywhere from 50 to 100 strands per day and in the United States more than 30 million women experience some accelerated hair loss as they age.
According to Marcy Holmes,a Nurse Practitioner and certified menopause technician, hair loss in women is caused by a multitude of factors from stress, genetics and hormone imbalance to drugs, thyroid system disorder and nutritional deficiencies(especially iron or vitamin A). Hair loss caused by medical conditions or stress is often treatable and reversible. The bad news for the rest of us is that hair loss is a normal part of the aging process and heredity.
Hair is an intrinsic part of our feminine identity and it's departure, even in women who are not vain, can be traumatic. However there are a multitude of ways to cope with thinning hair aside from wigs, extensions and Rogaine.
1. Go Shorter I've been a fan of long hair ever since reading Rapunzel and for years, with just a few unhappy detours, I kept it somewhere between chin and shoulder even when that was no longer my most flattering length. However recently and reluctantly I've gone a bit shorter but not so short that I can't pull it back for ballet.
With thinning hair a short(chin length or above) cut works best but you don't want to go too short and risk looking scalped. Also very short hair tends to put more focus on your face which may not be what you want to do. Bangs either straight down or side swept can help soften the look while disguising a receding hairline
2. Layer it Short or long layers can cover a multitude of sins, but if the the hairdresser brandishes a razor, run. You want blunt cut layers that will give the illusion of thickness. And remember a good haircut is worth what ever it costs
3. Color it I know that many women are nurturing their gray locks but permanent or semi permanent color thickens the hair shaft and adds body.
4. Forget the daily shampoo. Go easy on the washing. According to WedMD, fine hair gets dirty faster and people with fine textured hair need to shampoo more frequently, even though fine hair breaks more easily. Avoid this catch 22 by using dry shampoo in between washings. The powder will also add a bit of thickness and body.
5. Use a volumizing shampoo, conditioner, and mousse.
6. Avoid putting high heat directly onto hair. Blow drying should not be a problem but flat irons and curling irons can cause damage and breakage. Also avoid volume building products containing paraffin, which is beeswax. It can build up and result in hair breakage
7. Tease - just a little. Don't think beehive or Dynasty or any of the other big hair horrors. Just gently back comb the underneath hair along the part and then smooth over with the top hair and spray very lightly. This method which I learned from my hairdresser, gives the appearance of volume and a flattering lift.
8. Flip your head upside down, give it a shake, brush it, spray lightly, let it dry for a minute and then flip it back.
9. My instant look thicker trick- Tuck your hair behind your ears and secure with a bobby pin on either side,hidden underneath. Add bold earrings and your good to go.
Cheers,
Barb

BEST SELF TANNER

2008-06-08T11:41:00.000-04:00

This year I decided to ignore the seasonal deluge of self-tanning products. I'd been a diehard user since the days of QT. back in the sixties. Being just one of the multitudes who looks better with a tan I'd sought that look with practically every product that came on the market.
Last year I found that I was spending too much time and money applying cream lotions and sprays in an effort to achieve that bronze glow. More often than not the results were streaky or artificial looking. Not to mention that tan itself was receiving a lot of bad press.
Tan has never been popular in the ballet studio where I spend a lot of time. Most dancers have skin that appears not to have seen the light of day. I decided this year to up my ballerina wattage and join them. No matter that my skin has enjoyed too many summers in the sun and so is spotted and discolored, I was still aiming for alabaster.
Then Total Beauty.Com which is just about the most comprehensive beauty site on the web sent me L'OREAL SUBLIME BRONZE PERFECT AIRBRUSH SELF-TANNING MIST. Right away it caught my attention with it's promise of ultra even no rub quick-dry application. It so happens that it arrived on the warmest day of the season, the day I had actually gotten out my shorts and was feeling a bit depressed that my legs didn't look as good as one would have expected after having spent so many hours in the ballet studio. There were all those sun spots and blue etchings and I'll spare you the rest.
I headed for the bathroom where I shaved and moisturized my legs . It is suggested that you cleanse and exfoliate using Sublime Bronze Sunless scrub but that's the sort of suggestion I usually ignore. I see it as a ploy to get you to invest in a second product. Any way I'm the sort that can't wait so I sprayed away following the directions to spray the mist slowly and continuously at arms length. I was taken back at how quickly I was able to apply it(less than five minutes and how rapidly it dried. Another five minutes and I was able to get dressed!. I couldn't wait to see how it dried but I got busy with one thing of another.
A few hours later I was surprised when I looked down and saw that my legs had indeed turned a nice golden tan and their various imperfections were much less noticeable even when I checked with my reading glasses on. The product smells very faintly of self tanner (You know the scent) but it's hands down better than any other I have ever tried. So much so that I'm seriously rethinking alabaster.
Cheers, Barb

Michelle Obama's Style Trick

2008-06-05T09:45:00.006-04:00

Michelle Obama appeared Tuesday night looking elegant and comfortable in a simple purple silk jersey dress (I'm guessing about the fabric) I don't know who her stylist is or even if she has one but it was the perfect choice for her curvaceous body. Accessorized with a wide black belt it was flattering and sexy with out being clingy.
I know from experience that a woman with an hourglass figure runs the risk of looking broad in the hips in such a dress. The only way to avoid that pitfall is simple, but not widely known. I stumbled upon the solution after spending an inordinate amount of time in front of the mirror performing all sort of contortions. The trick is to raise the waistline of the dress an inch or so above the natural waistline so that the fabric flows over the hips rather than jutting straight out, which emphasizes them. In Michelle's case the dress was belted just a bit above her natural waistline defining it.
She looked great, a woman confident in her body and in her dress. I'll be watching her wardrobe choices closely.

Worst Beauty Bargain

2008-05-13T09:28:00.012-04:00

Most Sunday mornings you'll find me and my youngest son David in Target. It's the perfect destination for us. The roomy aisles easily accommodate his wheelchair and his CCI dog, Ian. The wide array of products provide much to interest us both although I must admit my attention tends to sag when he insists we linger in the tool department more than a few minutes. He feels the same way about the makeup section, which is why I picked up what I considered an incredible bargain rather quickly.
I was checking out the Boot's07 display. I've never used their products but had heard good things about them. What caught my attention was a a full size eyeliner and mascara packaged together for $6.99. It was a no brainer. I dropped it into the almost full basket that David balances on his lap and headed for the checkout. I was already feeling that nice surge of anticipation that surfaces before trying a new product.
Boot's Amazing Eyes Pencil is the usual kind, point on one end, smudger on the other. It's described as long wearing and silky smooth. It went on smoothly without any tugging. However when I checked it out I realized it hadn't imparted much color. I applied it again pressing a bit harder and found that it did indeed tug. The mascara went on easily with out clumping and defined my lashes nicely. However in ballet class, my friend Maxine informed me I had a black smudge on my eye lid. I gave it another try the next day and this time I checked in the rear view mirror before I got out of the car for class. There it was again; a black smudge by the outer corner of my eye. Good I saved the receipt!
Cheers,
Barb