99 Products

Nivea Goodbye Cellulite Challenge!!

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:30:00 -0500

About a month ago I got the opportunity to try out Nivea’s One Month Goodbye Cellulite Program and I am here to tell you all about the results. When I received the program I was a little nervous about it. I have tried firming creams, and cellulite reducers and I have had minimal to no luck with them. Wishful thinking does not produce results, so I went in to this test full of both hope and skepticism.

The program consists of three separate but conjoined products that work together to reduce the appearance of cellulite in 4 weeks. It includes the Good-bye Cellulite Gel cream, and the NIVEA body Good-bye Cellulite Capsules. I wanted to attempt to take the capsules, but honestly, I just can’t take any old pill because my skin is hyper-sensitive and anything is liable to set it off. So I left that part of the program to my dear friend Erica. I decided to go straight for the NIVEA body Good-bye Cellulite Patches. This is something that I can totally handle. They instructed that 2 to 3 times a week I should adhere the patches to the portions of my skin that had cellulite. I admit that after a winter of pretty much not working out at all, I went a little overboard. I had those patches everywhere. I looked like a big band-aid but I happily went to bed with my cellulite patches on hoping for the best.

Here is a breakdown of the progress:

Patches - Me

Week 1

No change

Week 2

Small difference

Got stuck to bedsheets

Reduced the amount of patches

Week 3

Smoother Appearance

Brave enough to entertain wearing shorts

Week 4

Dramatic difference

Bought shorts for the first time in 5 years and didn’t cry

Wore them last weekend

Cream & Pills - Erica

Week 1

No change

Week 2

Small change stopped taking pills, felt they upset her stomach

Week 3

Smoother Appearance

Not dramatic though

Week 4

Liked the firmness

Thought perhaps the pills & cream worked harder together.

Overall Results For Both Products

The results are overall very positive for something that can be purchased over the counter. We would both recommend giving them a shot as we would definitely use them again.

BEAUTY DUTY LINKS - 6/17/2008

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:57:00 -0500

It is my DUTY to tell you about these happening posts from around the web in beauty this week...

A Touch of Blusher looks at YSL's fall 2008 makeup collection.

All About the Pretty is really enjoying her new Soap & Paper Factory Fig Soap.

Beautiful Makeup Search asked some beauty blogger friends' what their three must-have Summer products are - check out their suggestions!

KRiSTOPHER gets her skin as smooth as a 12-year-old Eastern Euro model’s butt, with MD Skincare

Preview Prescriptives Fall 2008 collection DARING at Makeup Bag.

Makeup Moxie is buzzing over the new Lancome Oscillation Mascara.

Product Girl is loving Essie's new Neon collection, it's full of eye popping color.

SugarShock Beauty is loving Zooey Deschanel's on-trend yet vaguely retro look.

Rice To The Rescue??? We Will See About That!

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:38:00 -0500

So I am sure you have all heard me cry about the fact that many eons ago I was in love with Rice Bran Body Scrub from The Body Shop. I even gave it a sad send off in my Gone But Not Forgotten catagory. I havent ever been able to find anything remotely close to this product in years. That was until about a month ago, when I was reading a beauty review in my local paper about a product called Rice to the Rescue, I had to investigate!

Of course I am thinking that this is just wayyyy too good to be true and there is no way in the world that someone heard my prayers and re-incarnated my beloved scrub. I went out to find it the very same day at Bath and Body Works.

Rice to the Rescue is a part of their True Blue Spa line which I like and have used in many different product forms. I am a believer in their "Look Ma New Hands" which I keep in my purse faithfully. It gently moisturizes without being greasy and it absorbs completely. They also have my favorite vacation/travel body wash and lotion called "Tahiti Sweetie" and "Be More Pacific".

So it was described as a rice pudding body polish, which I think is an accurate discription. Not quite as hard working as my old scrub, but it produces virtually the same results. Super soft-non greashy skin, great moisture and a heavenly scent. Sure, its softer and requires a little more work in the elbow grease department, but it does the trick.

I am just happy to have a product that is similar to my dear old friend. In addition, Bath & Body Works is having a massive sale so when you buy any TWO products from True Blue line, you can get TWO free! But you better hurry, the sale ends Sunday June 22.

Explosive Discovery

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:16:00 -0500

So last week I made my monthly pilgrimage to the MAC store to get my all time favorite foundation Studio Tech. I took my friend Erica and of course we were looking at all the great new summer products that MAC has to offer, when I noticed this little tub of black goo. I couldn't figure out what the stuff was at first, so I sent Erica over to inspect.

She opened the jar and seemed intrigued. A minute later she returned and said that it was a Volcanic Ash Exfoliant. Now I have tried plenty of exfoliants, and plenty of products that contain volcanic ash, but never the two combined.

My gracious MAC associate came over and demonstrated its powers on the back of my hand. A little water, a little exfoliant and a quick gentle rub or two. I was concerned at first because I have sensitive skin and though I love some of the dermabrasion properties of exfoliants, some can just be way too harsh.

The product started sort of gritty but vanished into a sort of smooth mud like consistency. Once I removed the remaining product, I was left with buttery baby soft skin and at that moment I was a believer. It was fabulous. Of course I bought a jar and it is amazing trust me when I tell you. I did a little research and found out that its a blend of natural Volcanic Ash with fine sugar crystals from the islands of Vanuatu.

The MakeupGirl and I were discussing it this weekend and she was telling me her experience with the Volcanic Ash Exfoliant and how soft it had made her elbows. Basically neither of us could say enough about how great this product is. Its just one of the fabulous products in MAC's new Future Earth line, which also includes Prep&Prime microfine lip refinisher and Charged Water hydrating mist.

Its just in time for summer and perfect to instantly soften your skin. I don't know how long it will be around so I am going to purchase another jar ASAP. Join me wont you.

Go Nude

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 20:09:00 -0600

So MAC has a few new collections that I have been toying with over the last few weeks. The first is their new N collection which is N for nude. I have always tried to wear makeup without looking like I was completely made up. I love a great nude lip and even more a great flawless finish face without adding too much color. You can still stop traffic without going all out, and with this collection you'll do just that.

I spent a little time getting to know the N collection of lip sticks, lip glasses, liners and shadows by having the most trusted critics I know test them out. Of course I mean my girlfriends and my family members, because let me tell you these ladies know their stuff and wont have their heads turned by just any old cosmetic. While my mother and her sisters were excited about the prospect of creating soft beautiful looks with neutral natural colors, my friends were instantly skeptical. They were looking for that pop and wow factor that shine and color give you especially here in the dead of winter. No one wanted to look any more washed out than the complections that winter had already given them. They were to say the least, not amused.

I was persistent though, and I tried to impart the beauty that could be achieved by simply accenting ones own natural tones and colors. The great thing about this line is that its not just nude. It isn't made to wash you out, it incorporates tons of shine and understated color to give you the fresh faced beauty we all crave.

Take for instance the instant love of 3N lipglass. Everyone and I do mean everyone of every skin tone that I tested this on was instantly in love. Darker tones were given a subtle coffee creme gloss with a hint of rose. Lighter skin tones love how beautifully natural it made their lips look, like a beautiful soft stained rose.

The paint pots as always were an instant hit, and Quite Natural was the fave of the group. There are five great lipsticks and everyone found their perfect shade easily. The shadows of course were the biggest hit, my personal favorite which I have worn almost every single day since I got it is Rich Flesh. Just a hint of color, which I wear during the day as my primary eye color and at night to add a soft dramatic accent.

MAC has thought of everything with this line, and not just from a color standpoint. They also introduced the N Collection for face, which includes beautiful new natural Mineralize Skinfinishes. Gorgeous matte, translucent color which goes on soft and is great for touching up or giving you that fabulous neutral glow.

I know I always say you have to try this stuff but I am serious about this. I absolutely love it. I don't know how long its going to be around, so of course I have stocked up, but so should you. Go by the MAC store, give it a try and don't be afraid to go nude, your natural beauty will thank you.

Moisture Maximum

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 20:24:00 -0600

Oh I am so sorry for being missing in action for so long! I was without internet access for what seemed like an eternity. But you folks dont want to hear about that do you? No, you want to hear all about the wonderful goodies that I have been trying and using and loving over the past few months right?

Well first, let me tell you that its been so extra cold here on the east coast, and without a few wonderful products I possibly wouldnt have made it this far. Everyone knows that its important to moisturize, but that isnt just for your lovely faces. I have had my share of moisturizers for face and body over the years but very few have been able to effectivly do the job. Either they are way too heavy and wind up breaking me out, or they are too thin and I feel dry and cracked before I can get out of the house. We all know that well moisturized skin can keep foundation flawless and perfect for hours so let me tell you about a few that I love in several different price ranges.

First, for my oil-free and sensitive skin ladies who are prone to breakouts I highly reccomend Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15. Its what I have used for years and it has SPF 15 which we all need whether its summer or winter to protect our skin. It hydrates and absorbs clean, without clogging pores and causing any winter skin trauma. You can purchase it from your favorite drugstore or Drugstore.com for $10.99.

Also, for a great low cost alternative, you should also try out ProActive Solution Oil Free Moisture. Its a very light weight soft and clean formula that coupled with the Proactive family of products will keep away those pesky blemishes that we always worry about. My skin is always soft and healthy feeling when I use it and my makeup goes on perfectly over it. Its never oily and never sticky feeling. You can purchase it from Proactiv's website or even in the mall. They now have kiosks everywhere but prices may vary of course. You can also purchase it directly from QVC for $27.00.

On the higher end of the scale is MAC's new MoistureLush cream. Talk about lush, this silky smooth hydrating cream creates an amazing barrier against the elements. Its not heavy or thick but it feels amazing and softens skin all day long. It primes, hydrates and in combination with Mousturelush eyecream, lifts, firms and rejuvinates. You can use them day or night for wonderfully soft and beautiful skin. You can get both now at your local MAC store or online. MAC Moisturelush Cream retails for $30.00 and MoistureLush Eye Cream retails for $$28.50.

Last but certianly not least is Elizabeth Arden's new Prevage anti aging night cream which not only hydrates but its night-time formula with has a time released blend of high performance moisturizers to infuse skin and boost skin's repair process. This stuff is absolutly on the high end of the moisturizer scale at $125.00 retail, but I know that some of you wont bat an eyelash at the price. I was very plesantly surprised by the results that I achieved in two weeks of use. I havent had great luck with night creams and have in the past tried to avoid using them to to how greasy and heavy some of them have been, but this one is very light and I didnt wake up itchy, flaky or broken out. I do have to alert you to the fact that this is a cream you need to do an allergy test on, so please do so like the package suggests. You can buy Prevage on Elizabeth Arden's website or at your Elizabeth Arden counter.

Stay soft, stay pretty and always moisturize!

Holiday Cheer - 2007 Collections

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 18:18:00 -0600

So you know its that time of year right? You also know because you have been peeking around in your favorite stores that the holiday goodies are out, and what in the world would the holidays be without MAC's Holiday Collections???

Okay so we all know how much I love MAC products because I consistently blog about them here, but I have been buying MAC's holiday collections for years both for myself and for my closest friends. The holidays are my favorite time of year and I just adore giving gifts. This year MAC has outdone themselves with a sleek and stylish collection of fabulous holiday delights. I have to say that the packaging this year goes so far above and beyond beautiful. Each set, compact, and clutch is so beautifully crafted. Any lady would love to receive these attractive gift sets.

The first collection is Finery. The Finery line of stylish little cream colored woven clutches include four gorgeous lip sets in Plum, Coral, Tan and Pink. Each set includes two Lipsticks, and a Lipglass in a complementary shade. Each set is fun and compact which is great for quick touch ups and the bag is so extra cute.

The second collection is Curiositease. This collection is filled with great mini color sets. Just perfect for the girl that has everything. There are Warm and Cool Lipglass and Lustreglass sets as well as a set of Plushglass colors and 5 Softsparkle Pencils. There are also two pigment sets in Warm and Cool colors. They are all exquisitely packed in beautiful cylinder just pretty enough to display on your vanity.

Another great set is the Heirlooms Brush set. There are three medium clutch bags filled with MAC's to die for brush collections. There is a Face Brush set that includes 4 professional face brushes, an Eye Brush set with 5 great eye brushes and a Basic Brush set filled with 5 fab brushes. Did I mention how much I love these little clutches? Its bad enough I love the colors and collections so much, but now I want to purchase them all for myself and my friends.

These are just three of the great Holiday Collections that MAC has to offer and since I know your days to the Holiday are counting down, I wanted to give you some ideas. Tomorrow we can discuss the other three great Holiday Collections from MAC. Viva Glamorous Lips, Royal Assets and the very extravagant Antiquitease. I am going to get you through your holiday's with great gifts for your friends and maybe a special thing for you to take home too. Hey its the Holiday's don't you deserve something great also? I think so.

Beauty Duty: December 4, 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 06:39:00 -0600

A Touch of Blusher gets Dior (for Free) with a...... Find out what!

Beautiful Makeup Search is giving away The House of Miracles Set from Philosophy to five lucky readers. Click on over to enter and hopefully be one of the five lucky ones!

KRiSTOPHER gets you VIP access to online, one-day-only sample sales.

Ellen from Lipstick, Powder 'n Paint adores the Royal Assets Collection from MAC, and is sure you will too!

Makeup Bag shows us a sneak peak of the Guerlain Spring 2008 Color Collection.

Lotion Before Lingerie: Makeup Moxie slips into Body Silk by Bond No. 9.

Product Girl is interviewing celebrity makeup artist Billy B. Want to ask him a question? Find out how.

TheMakeupGirl gives you her hot beauty gifts for under $25.

WE LOVE BEAUTY wants you to VOTE for Look of the Month: November!

Aid Your Nails

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:30:00 -0600

I know I typically dont post very much about nail care, but I do actually care about it and think that its a part of everyday beauty. I however decided that for my best friend's wedding back in August that I would get acrylic tips. What a royal mistake for my poor little nails. They were so thin and brittle after I removed the acrylic nails, and I feared they would never get back to their original beauty.

I decided that I would try out some new products for my nails because I couldnt even get nailpolish to stay on them after the acrylic debacle. I started using Nail-aid nail products to try to get them back to their old selves.

I used their Grow Tougher formula for think weak nails for several weeks and noticed a considerable change in the way my nails looked and felt. Though I still had to grow out the weaker areas it helped to keep the nails that I did have strong enough to withstand my daily duties.

I also tried out the Clear Liquid Bandage for broken nail repair. Think of it like a thin brush on glue that dries quickly and never needs buffing. That was actually wonderful, especially since it seemed like every time they would grow a little I would get a break in the corner.

They also have a great Cuticle Cure that softens dry cracked cuticles and you know that this time of year its imperitave that you keep those cuticles smooth. The weather change usually ruins my nailbeds but this year I can confidently use my Cuticle Cure to keep them beautiful.

All of nail-aid's formulas are Formaldehyde and Tolune free which I think is wonderful and they provide a 100% guarantee on every product they make. I figure that you can't possibly go wrong with that.

So now that winter is officially here, my nails are beautiful strong and protected. Each product is only $6.50 and they offer seven great formulas and free shipping on their website. Check it out for yourself, your nails will thank you.

Beauty Duty: November 6, 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 08:36:00 -0600

A Touch of Blusher on Mascaras: You Mean That's NOT Real?

Beautiful Makeup Search shares what she loves about MAC's Viva Glamorous palettes.

GlamBlush: Lindsay Lohan loves living life as a blonde. We’re just calling her Goldilocks.

Kristopher wants you to wrap yourself up as your own Kwanzannukah gift, with these bowed Christian Louboutin shoes.

Lipstick Powder-n-Paint loves Benefit Cosmetics Here are some of the newest additions.

You're going to want to add this NARS lipgloss to your Christmas list! Come check it out over at Make Her Up.

There's hair issues over at Makeup Bag...

Want to try Mario Bandescu's skincare products? Product Girl tells you how.

TheMakeupGirl's November contest has her giving away a full set of Billy B's fantastic makeup brushes!

WE LOVE BEAUTY.COM and Celebrity Makeup Artist Paul Starr, show you how to get Mariah Carey's look from Glamour Magazine.

Wedding Day Bliss

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 09:00:00 -0500

My best girlfriend got married at the end of August, and of course she hired my sis The Makeup Girl to do the makeup for the bridal party. I know I have been promising this post for a while, but wedding photos were slow coming. You know quality photos take time! Its been a long time since I was in a wedding, and let me tell you that I had almost forgotten how crazy the set up for a wedding can be.

First, I have to say that without the considerable talent of The Makeup Girl, we would have all been in hot water. We had an issue at the salon the previous evening that caused us to get home at 4am the day of the wedding. Needless to say we were all pretty worn out, and none of us had the beautiful glow of a bride or her bridal party.

The Makeup Girl is amazing at making your true beauty shine through (even if you have only had 3 hours of sleep) and at her disposal were some tools that I now simply can not live without. Remember when I told you how much I loved two of MAC's new lines? Painterly and MAC in 3D? Well they were a godsend for this beautiful wedding, and let me show you why.

The greatest test of makeup is how long it can last without reapplication. Since there were 7 faces to do, and 5 of those needed to be as uniform as possible, she went with MAC's Studio Stick foundation applied with a brush only in the areas where we needed it, the skin looked flawless and not cakey. She finished with Loose Blot Powder. On the eyes she used Rubenesque Paint Pot which looks great on just about everyone (I know it looked great on all of us and we are all different shades!), Honeylust all over the entire lid, Folie shadow in the crease, Powerpoint waterproof liner in Stubborn Brown on the upper and lower lash line which she blended like crazy and made it have a smokey type look. Then on to the cheeks, She used MAC's Powder Blush, the lighter skinned girls got Coppertone, while the darker ones got Raizin. On the lips she used a stain first then followed with MAC's Pencil Liner's. There were so many different shades of us that she ended up using many different shades among them are Spice, BBQ, Cork & Chestnut. All of us got the same shade of MAC Lipstick a lovely Bronze shade called Shag. Finished with 3D Lipglass in Energy. Just look at the results.

MAC's Painterly Paint Pots have been added to this years product line, so you can get your very own in store or online, but MAC's 3D Lipglass is limited edition, and you know you have to have that so don't wait okay. Its bad enough I made you all wait almost 3 months for this post but when I say I am going to show you real results I mean just that.

Elegant Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 07:30:00 -0500

So I've been told that the newest fall trend isn't the shine we all seemed to covet this summer. The latest look is all about matte finish cosmetics, and of course you know who has that whole trend on lock.

MAC's new Matte2 and Mattene lines are a great way to get into the fall flawlessly. Matte2, which is a combination of high intensity pigments and matte textures brings out the beauty in fall eyes with colors that beautifully pair with those cool weather fashions.

There are 16 crease free flat texture shades to love (several of which incorporate fall's "IT" shade purple) and range from the brightest of berries in Post Haste to the richest of Aqua's in Clarity.

I know folks are afraid of color, but there is no reason to shy away from these beautiful shades. My new loves are Copperplate which is a muted mid-tone grey. This one goes so well with my collection of beautiful grey sweaters and skirts. I get a ton of compliments on it. I also love the silky smooth tone of Handwritten, which is a rich chocolate brown. This was a perfect match for my beautiful camel sweater coat and wide-leg chocolate brown pants. Flourishing, which is a rich moss green is the greatest for a hint of color that works well with my fall khaki's and sweaters.

In addition there are 5 great new Liquidlast Liners that are perfect to pair with the Matte2 eye colors. They are all waiting for you right at the MAC counter and of course online and you know you have the best fall outfit just waiting for that right pop of color that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Now ladies, I ask you what are fabulous eyes without a flattering lip color? You wouldn't leave your house half dressed so why leave with just the Matte2 line? Mattene is the perfect match for that great fall eye color. I was instantly in love with its new sleek and slim design. I love all things vintage, and these instantly reminded me of the 1940's glamour.

Of course I was immediately partial to Classic Dame, which I think is the perfect shade of red. I was so excited to test this one out with a great menswear inspired suit and spike heel oxford pumps. Not only is the color amazing but its long lasting and I didn't find myself having to re-apply. Its flawless matte finish lasted for hours without feathering and my lips were soft and supple.

I also love Flattering, which lives up to its name in a beige pink and Cafe Matte which I can pair with almost any look for a beautiful finished lip. They are super wearable and moisturizing. 16 great Mattene shades await you at MAC so please don't wait. Fall is here and these colors wont last.

Beauty Duty: October 30, 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 12:48:00 -0500

A Touch of blusher asks, "Why are anti-aging products getting more expensive?"

See why Beautiful Makeup Search is in love with Bobbi Brown's new palette system.

Kristopher explains why a Louis Vuitton bum bag puts you in a classic position. Lewd wink.

Lipstick, Powder ‘n Paint says Fashion, Fragrance and now Face... Calvin Klein has it all.

Makeup Bag shows us Seven Reds in Seven Days.

Product Girl plays with false lashes for the first time... and loves it.

TheMakeupGirl Shows us how to wear MAC pigment in her Face of The Day Series

WE LOVE BEAUTY's Exclusive Giveaway: Smashbox Limited-Edition Photo Finish Lipstick for IOC

Beauty Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 14:36:00 -0500

This weekend a few of my friends came to town for one of my best buddies birthday. Its always a great time when we get together and especially when we have something to celebrate. We truly eat, drink and be merry when we visit, but the one thing that we always do is trade beauty rituals. These ladies are all different, with different tastes in cosmetics, fragrance and styles but there is one thing we can all agree on, and that's Sephora.

When last we were all together we spent so much time in Sephora I thought they might actually put us all out of there. They didn't, but we were everywhere in that store. Jae was all over the fragrance section, Lucy was having a ball with the lip glosses. Pep and I spent an unreasonable amount of time checking out the mascara and eye shadows, and Dot was enjoying everything in the bath and body section. We all left with full bags and big smiles.

This weekend they all came over to spend some quality time with me and my mom but it wasn't long before we started digging in our bags and checking out what was new and hot for fall. I had the opportunity to let the girls give two new fragrances a test run. The new men's and women's Diesel Fuel For Life fragrances.

I believe that perfume can be so different on the skin than it is in the bottle, and while some fragrances really come to life on some, they can really fall flat on others. We started with the women's scent which comes in a beautiful oval shaped bottle with a unique crocheted cover. Its girly without being over the top, and everyone agreed it was a very cool marketing technique.

Diesel Fuel For Life por femme is a very light fragrance that bears a slightly oriental introduction with a more fragrant citrus top note. This of course was right up Jae's alley. She took to the scent immediately and it was a definite match for her body chemistry. We agreed that while it was clearly a citrus scent, it reminded us slightly of Clinique's Happy but a little more complex. Not quite as sweet but definitely as wearable.

We also tried out the men's fragrance which also has a great package. Its covered in a ultra masculine distressed leather pouch. We were all really feeling how they chose to present both fragrances. Now, I know that may sound strange to some of you, but I love to test out men's fragrance not just for the special man in my life but for myself. The girls all agreed that Diesel por homme was an amazing scent.

Deep and sensual without being strong or overpowering. In fact, one of my favorite men's fragrances that works so well as a woman's perfume is Prada por homme. Its beautiful, and I still cant figure out why it is so much more floral than the women's Prada fragrance. I wont be wearing Diesel por homme, but it is a great scent for men.

I would highly recommend testing them both out. I know that citrus fragrances aren't for everyone but its worth going to check out. The men's fragrance seemed wonderful for just about any guy, but you know that body chemistry rule applies to men too.

Of course you can go visit our favorite fragrance outpost to sample both. Sephora has them online if you are sure you want to just snatch them up, and of course in the store because you might want to buy some other stuff while you are there of course.

Beauty Duty: October 2, 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 08:33:00 -0500

Here are the best posts in beauty over the past week...

A Touch of Blusher: First Look at the NEW Calvin Klein Beauty Line

African Pride is launching a new herbal relaxer and has offered free giveaways to 25 OBE readers!

Beautiful Makeup Search explores the latest from MAC, including Plush Lash and an entire collection of lashes.

Make Her Up asks, "With all of the recent drama, will anyone be buying Britney Spears latest fragrance??"

Kristopher plays "Hyde or Seek" at a party with her boy.

Lipstick, Powder 'n Paint asks why does Courteney Cox love Kinerase?

StyleDash has Top Secrets from Beauty Buyer Robin Coe Hutshing

TheMakeupGirl’s latest contest is here…Calling All Philosophy Girls!!

Demi, Reese, Jessica, Heidi...vote for look of the month at We Love Beauty

Cool Weather and Beautiful Colors

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:00:00 -0500

So as fall approaches I find myself tasked with changing over my cosmetics from Summer to Fall. I am actually very excited about this because I am just dying to try out some of the hot new fall colors. Of course my favorite company is one step ahead with their new fall collections.

The first is Blue Storm, containing the most beautiful deep blues, grays and shimmering silvers. Each color more complementary than the last ushers in fall with cool elegance. There are three new Tinted Lipglasses to choose from, two of which incorporate fall's new "it" color purple.

There are also five great new shadows that I adore. Ladies do not be afraid to incorporate blue shadows into your look. This isn't 1980 and you aren't trying to match your eyes with your acid washed denim. Its all about the blending, highlighting and sheer beauty of working a great fall shadow.

Also there are two new eye pencils in Feline, a chrome pearl black that glides on easy and soft and Mystery, a luxurious teal with a pearl finish and two new nail lacquers in Whirlwind and Rainy Day.

The other must have collection for fall is Smoke Signals. I was in my MAC store the other day and saw what a hit this collection has become. This year's new eyeshadow quads are extraordinary. They have managed to incorporate the beautiful smokey tones, and rich colors of fall into two stand out pallets. The first, Gentle Fume works four cool tones in subtle grays and blues, while Smoking Eyes incorporates fall's warm glow with beautiful neutrals.

There are 5 new Lipsticks in warm coral's, creamy neutrals, with stunning pearl finishes. They are guaranteed to be fabulous for fall as well as the four new Lipglasses in complementary tones. These you can wear with your favorite Smoke Signal Lipstick or with a liner. I am partial to Bare Truth with a Cork pencil and its creamy Carmel finish is just perfect for a great day look.

There are several other items in the collection that are definitely worth a look. Two great powder blushes, and two new powder eye pencils that I had to wrestle away from my best friend. There are three new pigments, but of course my favorite is the aubergine influenced Smoke Signal which goes so well with my pretty new knit dress and two new nail lacquers that I immediately tried out. Wild Fire which is a gorgeous deep plummy black and Nocturnelle, a high gloss deep black polish that falls right in line with fall. I love a great dark nail color as the weather gets cooler.

Of course you know I am going to tell you that these collections are only going to stick around for a little while. So go fill your fall makeup bag fast.

You can find both collections online or at your favorite MAC store or counter.

What are you waiting for? Fall is here honey, don't you dare wait.

Beauty Duty: September 25, 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:54:00 -0500

It is my Beauty Duty to keep you informed...here are last weeks picks for the best on the web...

A Touch of Blusher takes a first look at YSL Holiday 2007 Collection...

Style Dash says these new razors are blades of (un) glory...

GlamBlush has a candid chat with P. Diddy about his newest scent for women Unforgivable...

Kristopher's a working girl when her nightie for day time doesn't get the job done...

Lipstick Powder & Paint is all about the boys with the art of shaving...

See a preview of Chanel's holiday collection at MakeupBag...

WE LOVE BEAUTY.COM Giveaway: 100 pieces of BENEFIT Her Glossiness lip gloss.

Beauty Biology

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 11:30:00 -0500

Okay Ladies, so you know every once in a while I give you the scoop on something extra fab with a extra high price tag. Today would be that day. You know I am all about giving you the real deal on things you can afford, and I know some of you ladies are doing extra big things on your day jobs, so perhaps its just little old me that cant afford certain products.

I was given the opportunity to test out a facial serum a few weeks ago that is made from marine enzymes from the coastal shores of Iceland. I know, I scratched my head too, but give me a moment to clarify. Dr. Bragi, a professor of Biochemistry at the University of Iceland developed this patented age management marine enzyme serum to combat the signs of aging.

Just a small amount daily helps to smooth and refine skins surface cells. It moisturizes and removes dull surface cells while helping to relieve inflammation and irritations. I am always so nervous about skin serums because I have such sensitive skin, but I had no trouble using the Marine Enzyme serum. It was very gentle to my skin and I didn't break out from it at all. Apparently its both artificial additive and chemical free and non-greasy which is always where I seem to have the most problems with skin products.

According to Dr. Bragi's website the enzyme is found in the depths of the ocean where temperatures are extremely low, so it becomes super-active when warmed by body heat, making its able to penetrate deep into skin. I did find that after a week my skin was noticeably smoother and softer. I don't know about its wrinkle reduction ability, as I don't have any wrinkles yet, but I am sure if I did they would be greatly reduced....I hope.

So, now you are thinking about where you might be able to get this wonderful serum. Well first, let me point out that its great, but I suggest requesting a sample of it from Dr. Bragi's website before you go plunk down your money. You can purchase the Marine Enzyme at Bliss.com for $240. Now, I couldn't tell from either website just how much serum you get for your money, as they didn't give a quantity in ounces, but perhaps I just overlooked it.

If you want to do a little more reading on Dr. Bragi or his Marine Enzyme you can check it out here. http://www.drbragi.com/

Enjoy!

Real Beauty At The Emmy's

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 12:30:00 -0500

Last night the Emmy's were on and as Award shows go, they were entertaining. Every year I tune in to catch the red carpet, and see what the stars are wearing. From the jewels to the gowns everyone is perfectly coiffed...well almost everyone, but that's not important. I am always interested in who's hair and makeup is flawless, but this year I was particularly interested in one person.

I got word about two weeks ago that the super talented and naturally gorgeous Ali Larter from Heroes had teamed up with Dove and their Campaign for Real Beauty and was going to do her own hair for the 59th Annual Primetime Emmy® Awards this year using Dove Hair Care products. I have to tell you that when I heard about it I was a little nervous for her, but seeing as how I know first hand that Dove has great hair products, I figured she couldn't go wrong. Not only did she want to take a stand for "real beauty" but she chose Dove to help her convey that message to the public.

In an interview with Dove about her upcoming appearance on the Emmy's, Ali said "There is a lot of work that goes into Hollywood hair and I want women to know that it is unrealistic for every day." "I am going to go out on a limb by doing my own hair for the Emmys without any stylists. I am going to use Dove Hair Care products for five days, get my hair in great shape and I am going to rock the red carpet. I am doing all of this to help women realize the potential of their own hair and feel more confident every day."

What a great positive message for women and girls everywhere, and what a glowing endorsement for Dove Hair Care. So, last night I tuned in to the red carpet to see just what would come of Ali's promise. Of course she looked amazing. Her hair was beautiful, healthy and shiny and wow that dress! She didn't try to make it difficult, or super intricate. She just went with a beautiful sleek look that accentuated her beauty. I looked this morning and she was listed on many of the Emmy's "Best Dressed" lists and I wasn't surprised, see for yourself.

This is a list of the Dove products that helped Ali produce her show stopping tresses for the red carpet.

Advanced Color Care Shampoo for Lightened or Highlighted Hair
Advanced Color Care Conditioner for Lightened or Highlighted Hair
Advanced Color Care Luminizing Mist for Lightened or Highlighted Hair
Body & Lift Volumizing Mousse
Smooth & Soft Anti-Frizz Finishing Cream
Flexible Hold Hairspray (Aerosol)

All of these Dove products are available to every woman whether you are creating a red carpet look of your own, or you just want beautiful shiny hair. I love that Dove is so affordable too so that I don't spend my entire paycheck trying to get cute. Of course I've said it before but I am a huge fan of Dove products because they are simple and effective, and of course you know I love anything that makes my life easier.

Also, check out http://www.doveloveyourhair.com.Dove is running an online ad contest. Just upload a photo of yourself and answer a few questions about hair. You'll create your own print ad that might be selected to run in Hearst magazines this fall. Just think, you could be the face of "real beauty" too. Enjoy!

The MAC Backstory

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:15:00 -0500

I know you hear me talk about MAC products a lot, and of course today's post is no exception. I have to give you a little background to appreciate why I spend so much time going on and on about MAC.

There was a time in the mid ninety's when you dear blogger buddy Avin wore no makeup. I know its hard to believe but I was seriously cosmetically challenged. Not because I didn't think that cosmetics were beautiful, it was simply because I could never seem to find the right shade to compliment my skin tone. I spent previous years with drugstore foundations that were too goopy, too cakey and either too orange or pink to pass as beautiful healthy skin. It wasn't until 2001 when I decided to try again.

One day, completely on a whim, I was drawn over to the MAC counter. I had a fabulous party to attend, and not a stitch of makeup to make my look come alive. I had toyed with the idea of purchasing products from MAC, but I must admit that I was just plain intimidated by the idea of another too pink or too orange shade. I guess I lingered a little too long because one of the artists Evelyn came over and asked if I needed help. I didn't want to explain my predicament, and I also didn't want to leave looking like a drag queen. She was so unbelievably nice, and so helpful that not only did I find the right shade, but I found makeup again. Since then, Evelyn has been my ultimate go to MAC artist, and whenever I want to try out a new line, or just ask a question she has been there.

My purse now overflows with MAC cosmetics of all types. I am devoted to their brushes and there has never been a foundation or powder that matches as flawlessly or completely as the ones I use from MAC. Its a love affair honestly, and I am hopelessly devoted. So when you see me reviewing something from MAC, please know that its from the heart and if I feel like one of their products isn't super fabulous then you will know it. If I wouldn't use it, I sure wouldn't tell you to go out and spend your cash on it.

With that said, look for an amazing write up on the new MAC In 3D and Painterly collections this week. I actually had the opportunity to test them both out on probably the toughest endurance challenge of all...my best friend's wedding. We are talking 4 bridesmaids, 1 skeptical matron of honor, a hostess, the mother and the bride herself. 8 hours of photos, hugs, kisses, tears, speeches, dinner, drinks, chapels and dancing. I will make you a believer and I have the photos to prove it.

Fresh And Flirty

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:07:00 -0500

I am all about convenience these days since I always seem to be on the go. I am one of those strange folks that has difficulty leaving the house without my "face" on, so you just might see me digging through my purse for any number of cosmetics. The ones I seem to have the most trouble locating are my shadows. I hate digging around trying to find my brush and god forbid I want to use more than one color on the go. It seems I can never locate what I need when I need it.

That is exactly why I am telling you about Flirt! and their new limited edition Vanessa Manillo Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow Palette. Now, you've heard me sing the praises of Flirt! Cosmetics before. I use their Squeeze Me Super Shiny Lip Gloss all the time. I love that they are just so compact and on the go. That's part of the reason I love the Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow Palettes too. It is so convenient, compact and beautiful I just couldn't resist. The shadows come in a four color palette that is tucked neatly into a sleek black slide out case. Inside is a fold out mirror and a wand for easy application. The wand has a brush on one side and a eyeshadow sponge on the other so that no matter how you want to apply, you've got it covered.

There are two soft color palettes, Party Purple and Chic Bronze. I tried out Party Purple last week for a night out with the girls and I loved how smokey and beautiful my eyes were. Of course I marched right up to Kohl's last weekend and purchased the other palette, which I have been wearing for a subtle work look all this week. I love that I can use them for a great dramatic look or a soft day time glow. I also love the price at $15 (by the way its on sale at kohls.com for $13.50) because I don't hurt my wallet looking cute.

You can find both of these Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow Palettes at your local Kohl's department store or online at Kohls.com. Remember they are Limited Edition so they wont be around for long, and they are a great way to get noticed.

Gold Rush

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 10:15:00 -0500

The MAC Rushmetal collection is versitle, beautiful and rich with the shimmer and shine of liquid metal. Featuring 4 new lipsticks and 8 new pigments, the opportunities to create bold eye-catching looks are endless.

MAC Rushmetal Pigments are bold and beautiful loose powders in liquid metal colors. The great thing about pigments is how versitile they are. Use alone with an eye shader for fabulous bold eye colors or work along cheekbones for a great highlighting accent. Rushmetal Pigments come in Rushmetal, Revved-Up, Gold Mode, Mauvement, Off The Radar, Copperized, Quick Frost and Cocomotion. I am in love with Cocomotion of course, and its been serving as a fabulous frosty accent to my old stand by eye shadow in Mystery.

The Rushmetal lipsticks are daring without being over-done. Each of the four shades shimmer and provide endless shine. The colors, Thrills, Frenzy, Soft Lust and Fast Lane are silky and leave lips soft and beautiful. My personal favorites are Frenzy a peachy-beige with a golden shimmer and Soft Lust a frosted tan with white pearl.

Enjoy Rushmetal while you can because just like Flashtronic, they will both be gone soon to make way for great fall pallets.

Beauty In A Flash

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 10:59:00 -0500

There are things that I like, and there are things that I love. Let me tell you about something I love. MAC Flashtronic. The entire line is designed to create a beautiful glow that illuminates and shines, giving you accents of spun gold.

MAC's Mineralize Skinfinish is one of the best products I have used. It creates such a subtle glow without being cakey or false looking. It highlights and beautifully and goes on soft. I love the way they have combined several different colors to make one beautiful wearable finish. Flashtronic features three of these new colors. Northern Light, a mid-tone pink, Gold Spill a peach pink with warm brown and cream pearl and Global Glow, a mid-tone brown with gold pearl. I have officially replaced my summer bronzer with Global Glow. I love how so little goes so far. It is the perfect accent that creates a sun-kissed glow without becoming heavy, too sparkly or orange and false looking. Use the number 134 Large powder brush for flawless application.

The Flashtronic collection also includes MAC's new Mineralize Eyeshadows, which are similar in texture to their Skinfinish, but create a fabulous four-shade eye color that lasts all day. There are six great shades to choose from. By Jupiter (which is my favorite) a mixture of taupe, beige and deep brown, Tectonic - Yellow gold, lime green, black and brown. Ether - Aqua, silver, black and gold. Mercurial - Yellow gold, lilac, and chestnut. Lovestone - Raspberry, wine and copper and Quarry (my mothers favorite) skyblue, olive, coral and beige. Each shadow produces a distinctly unique and amazingly wearable beautiful frost finish. Paired with the number 227 Large fluff brush, these colors go on smooth and bright.

In addition to Flashtronic's Mineralize Skinfinish and Eyshadows are four new Lipglasses designed to compliment and contrast with a reflective shine and amazing color. Perfectly pink, Flashtronic - Carmel bronze and gold pearl, Young Spark - neutral pink with gold pearl, and Electro-Lush - Creamy blue pink. I am a devoted fan of the Flashtronic Lipglass which I can play up with a cork liner, or smooth on for a shiny lip stain look.

Flashtronic is available now at MAC stores, online or MAC counters in high end department stores. Its limited edition, so if you want it, you've got to go get it now.

Light Bright

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 11:00:00 -0500

I had the opportunity to test Rimmel London's new Light Beam Lip Gloss. If you dont know already, Rimmel has figured out how to incorporate a tiny beam of light into the cap of their beautiful lip glosses which takes all the guess work out of dim or dark environment application. The light beam is perfectly situated, so it illuminates your lips in even the darkest place.

I of course am guilty of trying to apply my lipgloss in the car at night. My boyfriend hates this of course, because I have to turn on the overhead light. Driving with the overhead light is never fun, so on our last evening out, I decided to test out the Light Beam Lip Gloss. I pressed the button on the cap, and started applying. The boyfriend, who is typically not interested in anything beauty related, commented that it was a very smart idea. I would bet it was because he didnt have to endure the blinding overhead light. He wasnt blinded and my lips were flawless which means everyone wins.

So you are thinking, well that's just great but how will I know where I am putting the gloss? Not to worry, there is a tiny lip mirror on the side of the lipgloss (which I personally think is a must have for all lip products) so that you can see how to apply it perfectly.

You know how much I love beauty products that make life just a little easier. Also, because Rimmel Light Beam Lip Gloss comes in six fabulously sheer shades, you'll have no problem picking one (or more) that you love. In the Mix is a pale pink, After Hours a beautiful cherry red, Spotlight a shimmery pale purple, In the Limelight a soft gold, Disco Ball which is clear with silver shimmer and Strobe Light a metallic silver.

Each shade goes on smooth and silky without the sticky texture some glosses leave behind. I also didnt have to apply it very often, (even though I wanted to play with the light and the mirror) and it smelled and tasted great.

Its a steal at $10.99 and you can pick it up at your local ULTA on line or in the store.

Foot Therapy 101

noreply@blogger.com (Avin) — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 09:59:00 -0500

Maybe you ladies have time to go to the nail shop and get a cute little Mani and Pedi every week. If so, I envy you terribly and if not then have I got a product line for you.

Lamisilk has a new line of products just for those ladies who can’t always have a weekly pedicure. You want cute feet, especially during the summer months so you can wear all of the sexy sandals and strappy footwear your little heart desires without worrying about dry rough heels and toes. Lets not sugar coat it ladies, if you neglect those toes you will pay later.

I am sad to admit that last week I was about a week off from my pedicure visit, but instead of panicking I reached for my Lamisilk 3 Step Intensive Foot therapy. The trio consists of cleanser, moisturizer and a protectant. Also, thanks to Glam I also have a great Essie nail polish and the perfect pocket sized file to complete the look.

I started with the Lamisilk Cleanse Exfoliating Scrub, which smelled strangely like my old Rice Bran Body Scrub that I used to love so dearly. It gently scrubs to remove dead skin while softening. Some of the exfoliants I have used for feet have left them dryer than when I started. Not the Lamisilk Cleanse, this stuff is wonderful.

I followed up with Lamisilk Hydrate, which has such a smooth creamy consistency without being greasy. I love for my feet to be soft and smooth, but I don’t need to slide around on them like I am wearing my own personal ice rink. The formula absorbs quickly and kept my heels and toes happy all day.

So I finished off my happy toes with a few coats of Essie nail polish in a bright red. I love bold colors for summer and this was just the perfect shade. Let me tell you I got so many complements on the color. I am sure I would have gotten a few on my soft beautiful feet but I am not the type that enjoys random people touching my tootsies.

That night I smoothed on Lamisilk Protect which is their overnight moisturizing seal. That stuff is amazing. You know the old trick with the socks and the moisturizer that we all learned back in our sleep over days? Well this takes the goopy mess and the hot socks out of the equation. Just put it on before bed and wake up with beautifully smooth feet.

So, now you know what to do about those neglected feet. Don’t wait around counting your pennies, go over to Lamisilk’s website and download some great coupons so that you can have your very own home pedicure with Lamisilk’s Intensive Foot Therapy.

You can buy Lamisilk Intensive Foot Therapy at drugstore.com and local retailers.