StyleBakeryBeauty

Vaseline Aloe Fresh Moisturizing Body Gel

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:38:17 PDT

In the sweltering days of summer, it's nice to have a product that will keep your skin moisturized without being heavy. Vaseline Aloe Fresh Moisturizing Body Gel offers refreshing hydration, leaving skin feeling smooth and lightly scented. To treat our tired skin after a day at the beach, or just a day out shopping, we love to apply this for instant cooling relief. $5.99, drugstore.com

Smashbox Layer Lash Primer

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:26:27 PDT

"The invisible first coat" is how we like to describe the benefit of wearing a mascara primer. The Smashbox Layer Lash Primer packs in lash-loving ingredients to condition lashes while also helping to build a base our favorite mascara can really stick to. Apply as you would a regular mascara and immediately follow with your favorite mascara. Look-at-me lashes are yours for the wearing. $16, sephora.com

How Well Is Your Sunscreen Really Working?

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:39:15 PDT

You slather on your SPF everyday thinking you're doing what Martha Stewart would classify as "A Good Thing"; you're protecting your skin, right? Wrong. You may think your sunscreen is doing its job, but the bad news is, it might not be working as hard as you think - and could even be bad for your skin.

According to a study conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG, ewg.org), 3 out of 5 name-brand sunscreens "either don't protect skin from sun damage or contain hazardous chemicals -- or both."

It turns out the FDA doesn't require UVA filters (to block the progression of skin cancer and aging) in sunscreens, and most manufacturers have never included them, or provided little protection from them, in their formulations. The alarming fact is most sunscreens only protect from UVB, or sunburn radiation, even though a growing number of studies show that UVA rays (which penetrate the skin more deeply) are more harmful.

Hazardous chemicals, such as oxybenzone, are also not recommended to protect skin from the sun as it has been known to lead to allergic reactions, cell damage, disruption of the hormone system, and allowing for other harmful chemicals to penetrate into the skin.

Based on this EWG study, here are three popular sunscreen you may reconsider using:

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 30

While this sunscreen provides a high UVB protection factor, the UVA protection is on the moderate side. In addition, this formula contains Oxybezone as one of its main skin-protecting ingredients, thus making it a possible health hazard.

Coppertone ultraGuard Continuous Spray Sunscreen, SPF 30

The higher SPF is appealing, as is the water-resistant formulation. This too, however, has a low UVA protection factor, contains oxybenzone and fragrance ingredients that my cause skin irritation or sever allergic reactions.

Jason Naturals Cosmetics Sunbrellas: Complete Sunblock, SPF 26

Aside from its low SPF, this "natural" sunscreen contains oxybenzone and provides moderate protection from UVA and UVB radiation. On the positive side, it does contain zinc and titanium, two recommended ingredients for sun-protection.

EWG recommends the following three sunscreens based on their study:

Soleo Organics Sunscreen Organic Chemical-Free Sunscreen, SPF 30+

This water-restiant formula contains 22% zinc-oxide and highly protects from UVA and UVB rays. It moisturizes skin with grapeseed and sunflower oils, and is suitable for babies, children and adults alike. $24, futurenatural.com

Mexitan Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

No need to worry when using this highly-rated sunscreen. Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, you'll find 22.5% zinc-oxide and 6% titanium dioxide as its main ingredients. $19.95, mexitan.com

Badger Balm Sunscreen SPF 30

This sunscreen is highly recommended for providing a truly high UVA/UVB protection. You can enjoy it knowing that it also contains certified organic extra virgin olive and jojoba oil, cocoa butter, and wild African Shea butter. $15.99, amazon.com

See the entire list of sunscreens here.

By the end of the year, it will be easier to know which sunscreens give you the most protection; the FDA will be requiring an additional "star rating system" to be added to the normal SPF number on packaging. Ranking sunscreens from 1 to 4 stars, these ratings will be based on two tests that determine the effectiveness of a sunscreen's UVA protection. These tests are similar to the SPF test that is used to determine the effectiveness of UVB protection.

source and source

Suki Delicate Hydrating Oil

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:12:59 PDT

Summer is the season to show off healthy, glowing skin. We recommend Suki's Delicate Hydrating Oil to be used over your entire body after bathing or as an enriching bath oil to enhance skin's luminosity and hydration. Nourishing benefits from grapeseed, sunflower and apricot kernel oils, while extracts of chamomile, lavender and comfrey aid in soothing and calming the skin. Suitable for all skin types. $24, beautorium.com

Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color Pot

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:18:54 PDT

Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color Pot is a new blush duo that combines a creamy cheek color with a soft-focus loose cheek powder. The effect is natural and understated, yet gives skin a luminous and glowing look. We are coveting this travel-friendly pot for the mere fact that it will save space in our makeup bags while offering quick touch-ups on-the-go. Available in two shades. Limited edition. $34, nordstrom.com

Worth the Splurge: Our Favorite Luxury Products

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:53:04 PDT

We know that there is a financial crisis going on. We know that we're all on some sort of budget. We know that we should be looking for the best products that cost the least amount of money-- but we can't always do that. We have to splurge at least once and awhile. And it has been awhile! Read on to find out about our favorite products that are slightly more than budget-friendly.

La Mer The Treatment Powder Foundation SPF 15

When we found out La Mer was making a powder foundation, we could hardly contain out excitement. We know the pice tag is steep, but beautiful results always come from La Mer. As always, the brand uses their own exclusive Radiant Ferment to add visible clarity and brightness to skin, making us look, for lack of a better word, amazing. Ideal for natural, long-lasting coverage or for touch-ups over your favorite, not-so-expensive foundation. $95, saks.com

ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

If treatments at Kate Somerville's Melrose clinic are geographically inconvenient, we highly recommend investing in this exfoliating treatment. This signature formula works using the power of fruit enzymes to clarify skin, delivering visible results after just one enjoyable application. We love that it keeps our skin clear, removes the dead cells that make us look older, and lets us pamper ourselves a couple of times a week, like Hollywood royalty. Ideal for all skin types, except sensitive skin. from $85, sephora.com

Yves Saint Laurent 'Rouge Volupté' Lipstick

Looking at the packaging alone, who wouldn't want to pull this out of her purse? We love the light, dewy texture that treats our lips with nutrient-rich ingredients, while providing a vibrant color to suit our mood. The metallic tube is adorned with a very practical ring to reveal the shade house inside, and a mirror on the bottom for easy touch-ups any time of the day. $34, nordstrom.com

Chanel Soleil De Tan

We could easily get a comparable shades of this palette at a drugstore, but let's face it, this splurge-worthy item is much more affordable than the brand's handbags or any one item of clothing form the collection. This palette houses 4 gorgeous tones that we like to wear on our eyes for a more awake appearance, or on our cheeks to give our skin a "kissed by the sun" look. Blend them together or wear alone to create your own subtle luminance. Limited Edition. $65, nordstrom.com

Borghese Fango Brillante Mud

This luxurious treatment uses vitamin and mineral-rich extracts to even out skin's tone, while soothing and refining skin to help remove dead skin cells and erase the effects of environmental damage. We love that it leaves both the skin on our body and on our face nourished and hydrated, leaving us with a beautiful, radiant glow. $61, bloomingdales.com

Lancome 'Oscillation Powerbooster'

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:22:10 PDT

If you're looking for a mascara primer that will help build lush, longer-looking lashes while nourishing them at the same time, you may want to try Lancome's new Oscillation Powerbooster mascara primer. The formula creates an ideal base for lashes, while conditioners keep them nourished. We love that it defines and preps our lashes to enhance the benefits of our favorite mascara, giving our lashes the fullest result. $39, nordstrom.com

Clinique Happy-To-Go Perfume Pencils

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:13:21 PDT

When we're on the go, it's essential to have products that go right along with us. We're loving this Clinique limited-edition Happy-To-Go set. It includes three unique and oh-so travel-friendly solid perfume pencils: Clinique Happy in its own original scent, A Hint of Citrus and A Wealth of Flowers. Wear them alone or mix together to create your own happy scent. Sharpener and mini bag included. $30, sephora.com

Sephora Favorites Boxed Kits

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:56:16 PDT

Looking to discover new brands, want smaller versions of your favorite products or need to give a great gift? We are loving these new, limited-edition Sephora Favorites Boxed Kits. With 10 kits to choose from, each comes packed with best-selling goodies in deluxe sample sizes-- and all for under $40 a box.

We recommend you try them all, but the following kits are perfect for Summer:

Sephora Favorites Splashstash Waterproof Deluxe Sampler, $36. If you have any plans to hit the beach, pool or water park, this collection of 7 of Sephora's most wanted waterproof eye essentials will keep you looking fab-- bring on the H2O!

Set includes: 0.1 oz Tarte Lights Camera Splashes, 0.169 oz Too Faced Mini Lash Injection, 0.1 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Smoky Lash, 0.85 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens'Eyes Makeup Remover, 0.025 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes, 0.03 oz Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil in Electric and 0.26 oz Urban Decay Big Fatty Waterproof Mascara

Sephora Favorites The Fix-It Kit Skincare Deluxe Sampler, $40. Flawless skin is always in, and this set of 6 skin-perfecting secret weapons will bring your skin a more smooth, firm, and soft appearance.

Set includes: 0.19 oz Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask, 0.5 oz Perricone MD Ceramic Skin Smoother, 0.02 oz Cosmedicine Wrinkle Write Off, 0.24 oz Kinerase Extreme Eye Lift, 0.253 oz Dr. Brandt Pores No More and 1.06 oz Clarins High Definition Body Lift

Sephora Favorites Eau Girl Fragrance Deluxe Sampler, $40. Who says bigger is better? We find this set of 8 petite scents to be just the right size to take along on weekend get-aways, stashing in your desk drawer and even your favorite tote or clutch.

Set includes: 0.17 oz Dior Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum, 0.17 oz Bvlgari Omnia Green Jade Eau de Toilette, 0.17 oz Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette, 0.13 oz Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette, 0.3 oz Prada Infusion d'Iris Eau de Parfum, 0.13 oz Clean Eau de Parfum, 0.24 oz Ralph Lauren Ralph Eau de Toilette, 0.13 oz Givenchy Very Irresistible Givenchy Eau de Toilette

Sephora Favorites Skin Saviors Moisturizers Deluxe Sampler, $24 Don't let your skin dry out! Give it a much-needed drink with some of the most popular body moisturizers to nourish, protect, and hydrate.

Set includes: 1.69 oz Korres Guava Body Butter, 1 oz Philosophy When Hope Is Not Enough Body Lotion, 2.03 oz Fresh Sugar Lemon Body Lotion, 1.7 oz Bliss Blood Orange + White Pepper Body Butter and 2 oz Murad Body Firming Cream

Pacifica Soy Candle in Tuscan Blood Orange

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 01:00:00 PDT

Magnificently fragrant and clean-burning, Pacifica Soy Candle in Tuscan Blood Orange will add a burst of color to any room while filling it with its delicious blend of spicy blood orange, strawberry, raspberry, and mandarin scents. Every candle form Pacifica is handmade with vegetable soy wax, lead-free wicks and Pacifica's signature blends of essential and natural oils. We love burning these in the early morning when the day begins to pick up and we can enjoy its vibrant, energizing scent as the day progresses. Burn time: 100 hours. 5.5 ounces, sephora.com

Ask Us: How Do I Extract a Large Blemish?

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:00:00 PDT

Q: How can I pop a huge pimple under the skin? I was hoping you could give me some clues as to what you look out for. Please help me!

A: Any pimple, blemish or "zit" shouldn't be picked and prodded. This can cause bacteria in the skin to burst under the skin and spread the problem. When you do experience large, and sometimes painful blemishes, it is best to let nature run its course. If you do see some white pus at the surface, you may do as follows:

Apply a warm compress over the area 8-12 minutes to help encourage the pus to the surface.

When you have done this, use two cotton swabs (our favorites are Q-tips brand) to gently lift the fluid out. Do your best to place the tip of each swab "under" the pimple. The pus should come out easily without force.

If you begin to see blood or clear fluid, it's time to stop. You may see more redness around the area. Apply a cold compress to reduce this.

Apply an acne clearing product such as Neutrogena On-the-Spot Treatment ($5.99, drugstore.com) to help treat the blemish as it heals. Cleanse your face daily with a salicylic wash and exfoliate 1-2 times per week to keep breakouts at bay.

Best wishes!

VS Sexy Little Things Noir

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:00:00 PDT

Winner of the Fifi Award for Private Label Fragrance of the Year, Victoria's Secret Sexy Little Things Noir is light, playful and deliciously provocative. Appealing without being overpowering, the beautiful blend of sparkling nectarine, sultry amber and exotic orchid smells every bit as glamorous as its shapely black glass bottle, adorned with vintage accents and fabulous retro bulb atomizer spray, looks. 1.7 ounces. $39, victoriassecret.com

6 Products Under $10 to Help You Survive Summer

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 01:00:00 PDT

For us, Summer is all about weekends at the beach, getting together with friends, relaxing at the park, and simply scaling back a tight everyday schedule. Summer also brings in the heat, and you need products that will help you survive it. We've put together a list of beauty essentials, sure to keep you cool and looking your best.

Essence of Beauty Body Mist in Blue Ocean

With its blend of light scents-- that remind us of cool ocean waves and fresh air-- this body mist will keep you feeling like you're at the shore, even if you are still sitting at your desk. $5.99, cvs.com

Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat

Whether we're playing in the sand, swimming in the pool or washing dishes, we use this essential, high-gloss top coat to keep our brightly-colored manicures in tip top shape for up to two weeks. $5.49, drugstore.com

St. Ives Cellulite Shield Gel Creme

Gym visits are necessary for our overall health, but spending time outdoors is so much more fun in the Summer. To help us look our best, we recruited this powerful and hydrating creme to fight cellulite and leave our skin feeling smooth and looking more even-toned. This formula absorbs fast and includes ingredients like caffeine and citrus extracts work to energize, rejuvenate and stimulate circulation in the skin. $7.99, drugstore.com

Nivea Lip Care A Kiss Of Protection, SPF 30

This long-lasting lip balm protects lips from damaging UV rays, prevents your pout from drying out and leaves them feeling silky smooth thanks to ingredients like Jojoba oil and Shea butter. $2.49, drugstore.com

Colgate Wisp

We love this pocket-sized disposable toothbrush. It fits in our purse, beach bag or glove compartment, and is perfect for keeping our breath fresh and teeth clean on-the-go, no matter where we go. Sugar-free. $2.59, cvs.com

L'Oreal EverPure UV Protect Spray

We admit, we've been stretching time between our haircolor appointments these days, but we couldn't do it without a little help. A few sprays of this on our tresses before we finish our style not only adds moisture to our already dehydrated hair, but protects it from UV rays, thus helping our color look vibrant and healthy longer. $8.99, drugstore.com

Bliss Lemon+Sage Body Butter Lite

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 PDT

Bliss has created the ultimate lightweight moisture-giver in the new Lemon + Sage Body Butter Lite. Much like its nourishing older sister, Body Butter, the botanically-based moisturizing ingredients and antioxidant vitamins in Lite condition skin like, well...butter. It won't, however, leave you with the extra-thick-- and sometimes greasy-- finish. Body Butter Lite is perfect for creating a more dewy finish on the skin, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin weightlessly hydrated. $29, blissworld.com

Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss in Black Honey

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 01:00:00 PDT

Clinique's Black Honey Almost Lipstick is the one lipcolor we know we can gift our friends without worrying if it will "work" on them. Now the amazing gloss power of the brand's Superbalm is available in the much-loved shade. Superbalm is an ultra-moisturizing lip balm that thinks it's a gloss, contains antioxidants to protect your pout, leaving lips feeling pampered. It's one of our must-have lip products, and now that it comes in Black Honey, we love it even more. Sephora Exclusive. $13.50, sephora.com