flawless beauty

a little Sunday inspiration...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:56:00 +0000

I realize it's been awhile since we've had a Sunday inspiration post. I was too wrapped up in gift guides...
Here are some refreshing images. To me, the owners really love the idea of being close to nature. I have to admit, taking a bath while watching a snow storm sounds like a wonderful idea!

The new year will be here soon, posts on Flawless Beauty may slow down slightly for a short time due to other commitments I have but that just means quality vs. quantity, which is always a good thing!

I am also looking for more guest bloggers. If you have something you would like to guest blog about (with relevance to previous Flawless Beauty posts), I would love to hear about it via email.

Wishing everyone a New Year full of love, happiness and beauty!
Images via Desire to Inspire.

tips for holiday stress...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 17:41:00 +0000

The peak of the holiday season has passed and may have left you in the middle of holiday stress. Last minute parties, travel, shopping and work deadlines can take a toll on the body and mind.
Here are a few products, tips and tricks to save you time and get you into the new year...
Sleep your way to glowing skin and revitalized hair.
The average female needs 9 hours of sleep a night! This is time your body needs for proper cellular repair. Use your time off this holiday to catch up on sleep, before resting, apply a hair mask or oil. Wake up with shiny hair and a healthy scalp. Try Saaf Organic enriching hair oil or Weleda Rosemary hair oil. Both wonderful products that I use regularly. If you skin is feeling tired and dull apply a facial oil or nutrient rich moisturizer, be sure to cover your whole body, not just your face!
Radiate energy.
Wake up tired eyes by applying an eyecream first thing in the morning. That is, after drinking an 8oz glass of water, your skin needs water to glow. Apply a serum made to repair and feed the skin such as The Body Deli's, Vital C Serum. Still feel like you need some extra repair? Apply a face mask while in the shower. This saves time while you wash your hair or shave your legs.
Reinvent your makeup.
Use makeup to your advantage, brighten eyes with Nvey Eco Makeup, add a hint of color with Afterglow Mineral Cosmetics. There are a handful of great natural makeup brands that have fun new products to offer. Lets not forget Korres, Tarte and Dr. Hauschka, plenty of options!

Spend this week relaxing, celebrating and reflecting!

last minute holiday gift ideas...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 18:51:00 +0000

I hope everyone enjoyed the gift guides, here are a few more things I've come across in celebration of the holidays...

Beautorium is having a special, 25% off your entire order, just enter "HOLIDAY" upon checkout.
Jurlique is offering adorable pre-packeged "staycation" gifts for 25$ each.
Nature Girl is having a buy one, get one free. Upon checkout in the comment box note the item you want to have for free. The item needs to be cheaper or the same price as the item your purchasing. Offer ends today, Monday the 15th so act immediately.

There are also so many amazing environmentally friendly gift wrapping guides that I have found through blogs this year! I think I am going to stick with the very easy and basic "magazine wrap" technique. Anyway, here are a few blogs below that give great holiday wrap and decor ideas. Enjoy!

Pia Jane Bijkerk
Fryd & DesignCreature Comforts
Love Forever

gift guide...for those who love the scent of nature.

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 02:02:00 +0000

The Green Balm by Moa, 20$ available at Luckyscent.
Patyka Shampooing Bio- Rosemary, 16$ available at Patykausa.
Strange Invisible Body Lotion-Wild Orange, 40$ available at Siperfumes.
Jurlique Tranquil Bubble Bath, 18$ available at Jurlique.
Trilogy Botanical Moisture Hair Mask, 24$ available at Beautorium. Weleda Lavender Relaxing Body Oil, 17$ available at Weleda.
100% Pure Organic Eucalyptus Seafoam Facial Cleanser, 19$ available at 100percentpure.
Tsi-La Parfum minis, 95$ (four fragrances) available at Tsilaorganics.

gift guide...for a Bohemian Beauty

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 17:34:00 +0000

Korres Lip Tint-Wild Rose, 9$ available at Sephora.
Red Flower Body Scrub, 45$ available at Apothica.
Farfalla Gemstone Oil-Joy of Life, 32$ available at Beautorium.
Zoya Nail Polish-Glimmer, 7$ available at Zoya.
Juara Tiare Jasmine Tea Body Milk, 30$ available at Apothica.
Saaf Organic Complexion Boosting Serum, 65$ available at Beautorium.
Pacifica Soap, 7$ available at Pacificaparfume.
Altru Unity Aromatic Soy Blend Candle, 55$ (proceeds support In a Perfect World Foundation) available at Gamillahboutique.

gift guide...for those who adore Paris

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 04:39:00 +0000

Mirror, Mirror Jewel Box, 38$ available at Urban Outfitters.

Mirrored Can Can girl toiletry/jewelry tray, 34$ available at Urban Outfitters.

Figs and Rouge Rambling Rose 100% Organic Balm, around 7$ available at Lovelula.
Cattier Purifying Lotion, 15$ available at Beautorium.
The Pink Room UK Parfum #1, 80$ available at Luckyscents.
The Pink Room UK Parfum Pour Toi, 125$ available at Luckyscents.
Dr. Hauschka Lipstick in #04, 21$ available at Saffronrouge.
Mor Lip Delights Balm in Cassis Noir, 15$ available at Bestowboutique .
Monyette Paris Perfume oil, 45$ available at Luckyscent.
Penhaligons Blenheim Bouquet Bath and Shower Gel, 45$ available at Shoplondons.
L'Occitane Lavender Foaming Bath, 30$ available at Loccitane.

gift guide...for the modern minimalist

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:01:00 +0000

Korres Showergels 12$, available at Sephora.
Sonia Kashuk Purse Brush Kit, 13$ available at Target.
Ren Body Balm, 37$ available at SpackNK.
Jatamansi Bath Milk, 80$ available at Barneys NYC.
Diptyque Tam dao shower Gel, 48$ available at Beautyhabit.
Nvey Eco Lip Luster in Seduce Me, 24$ available at Sephora.
Bamford Flower Therapy Oils, 50$ available at Barneys NYC.
Top Photo via Domino Magazine.

soft as a baby...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:22:00 +0000

As many of you know, I am a big fan of Weleda products. I love everything from Skinfood to Wild Rose Body Oil. My new favorite discovery is Calendula Face Cream from the Weleda Baby line. A blend of Sweet Almond oil and Beeswax leave your skin baby soft and sweetly scented. My new favorite and affordable face cream.

holiday gift guide...DIY

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 08:01:00 +0000

Bath Snowballs

The holidays are here! The theme for today's post is "do it yourself" home spa gifts. I am very big on gift giving. I love shopping and picking out things for people I care about. This year though, I am not going to buy any gifts, instead make my own. I have extra time available that I usually don't have so I am going to take advantage. I am going to focus on spending time with the people I care about instead of fighting the crowds. I also feel this is a route a lot of people are taking because of the current economic situation.
Body Scrub

The holiday issue of Martha Stewart magazine really helped me out this year, the issue is stocked full of great affordable holiday decor ideas and amazing cookie recipes. All the DIY beauty gift projects pictured are from Martha Stewart magazine. I have linked the title of each project to the website to the full instructions and labeling material.
Bath Fizzies

Short on time or not feeling so crafty this year? Next week I will post traditional gift guides with a different theme everyday!Lip Balm

facial cleansing cloths...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:01:00 +0000

In a previous post, the importance of washing your face every evening was mentioned, even if that means just swiping it with a cleansing cloth.

I've come across these bamboo facial cleansing cloths from Kaia. Unbleached, biodegradable and infused with lots of goodness for your skin. I can't wait to get my hands on these, not sure where they are available yet though. In the meantime I found some other facial cleansing cloths at Trader Joe's last night, will let you know how those work out. Cleansing cloths seem like such a great option for traveling or if you just need to freshen up after work before going out.

I hope everyone who is celebrating has a wonderful holiday tomorrow!

thermal cleansing...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:08:00 +0000

Winter has arrived in NYC with winds that leave my face dry, cold and yearning for warmth. This is usually around the time of year I switch to using oil-based cleansers and moisturizers with rich ingredients (just make sure it's not mineral oil).

I tried the Thermal Cleansing Balm by Omorovicza, a Hungarian company available at Bergdorf Goodman.This black balm claims to draw out impurities while replenishing the skin leaving it silky and glowing. This mud based cleanser is rich in minerals providing multiple benifits for the skin. My face definitely felt silky after using. The texture was thick, almost like applying a honey mask as a cleanser. If rubbing honey on your face does not sound appealing then this probably isn't the cleanser for you ;).

makeup brushes and more...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:02:00 +0000

My friend Tamar (pictured), is a wonderful makeup artist. I pulled her aside to get some great advice on caring for and choosing makeup brushes...

1. How often should makeup brushes receive a cleaning? And how often should they be replaced?

If you use a foundation brush it should be cleaned daily, there is a lot of bacteria that stays on the brush that will cause skin breakouts. If used regularly, other brushes should be cleaned once a week. Brushes can be cleaned with water and shampoo.

As far as replacing brushes, I still have brushes from ten years ago. It all depends of how well you care for and the quality of your brushes. If they are shedding too much hair or have lost shape, that would be a good sign that they need replacing.

2. Is there any special steps you should take when cleaning makeup brushes?

I like to use baby shampoo and water. Always lay flat and air dry your brushes. Never blow dry, the glue will melt.

3. How should makeup brushes be cleaned if you want to save time?

I love to use a brush cleaner. I am a makeup artist, every time I work on a new face I need to have clean brushes and I don't have time to wash and wait for them to dry so I use a brush cleaner. I have a few favorites, Mac Brush Cleaner, lightly scented, an excellent formula because it cleanses, disinfects, and conditions your brushes. I also like Shu Uemura, Brush-Off, and Bare Escentuals Well Cared For.

4.Which brushes do you think should be a part of every makeup bag? Do you have any favorite makers?

Foundations brush- I love Mac 190, and also Prescriptives.

Blush brush- Bobby Brown.

Powder brush- Mac.

Slanted eyeliner brush- Mac.

Eyebrow brush and lash curler- Shu Uemura or Tarte.

Above are all the basics that every woman and/or drag queen should have in their makeup bag! I think it's important to spend a little money and get great quality brushes because they last a long time and also blend makeup better. I really love Mac, Shu Uemura, and Kevin Aucoin brushes. On a budget? I LOVE Sonia Kashuk and Sephora brand.

5. You've worked in the beauty industry for fifteen years on a variety of faces and bodies. Have you picked up any beauty tips or secrets that you would be willing to share with Flawless Beauty readers?

I love using a lash curler, it makes such a big difference.
I like to put a highlight eyeshadow color in the inner corner of the eye. It instantly brightens things up.
Buy foundation that is your skin tone. I LOVE Awake and Armani foundation.
YSL Le Touche Eclat.
Always wash your face. It doesn't matter how late you get home. Buy some cleansing face wipes and put them next to your bed.
Preparation H wipes. I like to use these on my face sometimes, especially if I've had a late night. It brightens and de-puffs everything!

Contact Tamar for makeup or spray tanning services:

www.gothamglow.com

a little Sunday inspiration...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 08:01:00 +0000

The inspiration post for today is all about fun storage to organize with, which I think the image above captures pretty well. Similar affordable containers are probably available at Ikea or Target.

I may have posted the above image before, but I still think it's an easy and affordable way to store small necessities when your lacking cabinet space.

This is one of my favorite bathroom storage solutions. I think this sink display is beautiful and so well done. Matching the bottom platforms to the sink platform is such a nice way to keep everything uniform as well. The small art pieces are cute also. The tissue box and toothbrush holder are a good reminder to take advantage off wall space!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! Maybe you can treat yourself to a home spa day and try one of these!

Images via Elle Decor

Awake...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 15:44:00 +0000

Another skincare line I've recently discovered is a "new to me" Japanese brand that I am very eager to try out, Awake. I am trying the Clear Gel Wash for combination skin, Hydro-Force Eye Cream, and Hydro-Force Cream for the face.

Awake products seem to be a good choice for sensitive skin types. All products for the face are Mineral oil-free, hypo-allergenic, not tested on animals and fragrance-free. This of course is great for normal and dry skin as well. Will get back to you with the reviews soon!

Has anyone else tried this line? Is so what did you think?

facebook giveaway...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 08:01:00 +0000

If you are a fan of Flawless Beauty on Facebook, don't forget to log in through the weekend and leave a commet with your favorite beauty tip or product for glowing skin on the wall here for a chance to win an amazing skincare product! Not yet a fan? Become one here, (must be a Facebook member). Winner will be chosen at random.

If you are not a Facebook member I will have more exciting giveaways through Flawless Beauty Blog soon!

whipped body scrub...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:13:00 +0000

I've come across a great exfoliant for the tender skinned. Naked Body and Bath makes a whipped sea salt body scrub called The Slough Connection. What makes this product so unique the the whipped consistency. In a way it feels more like 'table salt' then large chunks of sea salt that can sometimes scratch sensitive skin. Another great bonus is this product is customizable. You can chose your fragrance, color, and scent strength! Click here for more information.

lovelula.com...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:01:00 +0000

While browsing on Facebook,I discovered a website I adore, lovelula.com. Lovelula.com is an online beauty product retailer that specializes in organic and natural skincare. Based out of the UK with international shipping.

Lovelula.com is offering a limited time Christmas promotion. Spend 75 pounds (I just realized I don't have the pound sign on my keyboard :) ) and receive a gift voucher for 15 pounds. Simply enter xmas in the discount code box upon checkout between Nov 7th and Dec 10th. Below I have posted some of my wish list items from the 100% organic section...

nude update...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 17:31:00 +0000

Previously I blogged about one of my favorite product lines, Nude Skincare. That was when they were first starting out, now about a year later, I am still loving Nude. I have been using the Cleansing Milk but will probably switch to the Cleansing Facial Oil this Winter and I still use the Facial Scrub.I noticed Barneys sells these adorable Nude Skincare gift sets. All made from recyclable materials.

Nude is pretty pricey, I was lucky enough to get all my Nude products as a gift from my very generous roommate. If you are in the mood to splurge this would be the line! The only thing I did not care for was the facial moisturizer, it seemed to "peel off" in an odd way.

potent and pure skincare...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:26:00 +0000

If you are looking for a skin serum to give soft, supple and rosy skin, iRejuvenate may what you've been searching for. Created by Forest Secrets Skincare, iRejuvenate is a two step process formulated to aid the regenerating process of your skin.

Step 1 is an anti-aging light face oil to nourish and repair the skin/eye area. Step 2 is a regenerating skin serum containing a powerful blend of hydrating and softening ingredients. To see a full list of ingredients and which are organic and fair trade click here. Available from the UK online. Dr. Barbara Olioso, founder of Forest Secrets Skincare also has a informative blog.

I love the way my skin reacts when using the serums, very soft and clear. There is something very soothing about the scent as well. My skin is not left feeling oily at all, after applying Step 2 it almost feels like applying a "dry oil". And I love the pretty packaging!

a little Sunday inspiration...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 21:53:00 +0000

A simply glamorous bathing space. This picture is from the home of interior designer Abigail Ahern. To see the rest of her amazing rooms click here.

Here is a great bathroom post via Style Files. Enjoy!

how holiday appropriate...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:36:00 +0000

One of my long-time favorites. The Pumpkin Exfoliating Mask from Zia Skincare. Great for normal, oily or sun-damaged skin. Whole Foods carries a wide range of Zia products as do most local health food stores.

nurture and calm your senses...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 23:32:00 +0000

Jurlique has a wonderful Tranquil Bath Oil formulated to nurture and calm your senses. What I love using this bath oil because it creates a light foam. The perfect balance if you don't want bubbles but something more than a few drops of essential oil.

rinse with Rosemary...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:58:00 +0000

Rosemary has to be one of my favorite herbs. It's very easy to grow indoors, adds a ton of flavor to any dish (my favorite is to add to garlic bread or any potato recipe) and it smells amazing!

Rosemary essential oil warms the body by adding a few drops to your bath or a body scrub. Rosemary is also great for adding shine to dull hair. The recipe is as follows...

4 tablespoons fresh rosemary*

2 cups water

Boil rosemary in water for 10 minutes. Strain and then let cool.

Pour one cup over damp, shampooed hair. Massage into scalp. Rinse. Repeat.
*There is also the option to add a few drops of essential rosemary oil to water instead of boiling fresh rosemary, or just add directly to your shampoo.
I would love for readers to share any other favorite uses for rosemary...

a hint of Frangipani...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 07:01:00 +0000

The scent of Frangipani which comes from the Plumeria flower is a favorite note in many perfumes and candles. Warm and delicate, often a reminder of tropical getaways.

I have been using the Frangipani shower cream from Farfalla. Which also layers perfectly with the Eau Fraiche Natural Perfume. Both products are scented lightly, not overpowering at all.

For something more concentrated try Frangipani Monoi Beauty Oil by Hei Poa. I would probably use this in the Summer months or vacationing somewhere tropical.More winter appropriate would be Lotus Blend bath salts like these by Bod. Notes of Frangipani, Manoi and Lotus.Scent your home with a luxury candle from Costes which has the scent of Mango, Teakwood and Frangipani. I love the grape burgundy color of the glass!

For more open spaces the Voluspa Japonica Reed Diffusers are always nice. Try the Capri Fig scent with notes of Sweet Rose Petal, Tart Fig and White Frangipani. I find that reed diffusers work best in a hallway with a door that is opened frequently or near a open window. Otherwise the scent can get a little overwhelming.

touchably smooth hands...

yvonnechenoa@gmail.com (Creative Archive) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 07:01:00 +0000

Here in New York the chill of Fall has finally made and appearance. Not only does this mean heavy jackets and lots of Hot Chocolate :), but also cold dry hands with rough cuticles. Unattractive as it is, I am a nail biter and the problem only worsens when the cold weather sets in. My favorite hand cream to keep my hands busy and nails away from my teeth is Burt's Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme. I love the smell of almond and this formula leaves my hands very coated, almost "oily" which I like.
Some other great options which I really want to try are infused with ginger, which could be a great cold weather pick me up. Carols Daughter offers a Lemon Ginger Mint Manicure in a Jar and Pharmacopia has a Ginger Hand Creme infused with Comfrey and Shea Butter.

Looking for SPF to keep you hands looking as fresh as your face? Try using Red Elements Daily Moisturizing Creme SPF 15 by Jason Organics. It's also a nice treat to keep a jar of hand creme at your desk, the heat in your home or office quickly zaps skin of moisture as well.