Gouldylox Reviews

Pantene's New Nature Fusion Bottles Are Sweet!

2012-01-27T15:01:00.000-05:00

You know I am a huge fan of Reyclebank (you do know that, don't you?) and of good deeds in general, right? So when Recyclebank told me what Pantene was up to, I knew good things were bound to happen. Pantene's new Nature Fusion bottles are made out of sugarcane and do so much more than just look pretty. It's actually really cool. Check out the video below to learn more and earn Recyclebank points! You could even be entered to win a fabulous Day of Beauty.

Philosophy Miracle Worker Really Makes A Difference

2012-01-27T08:30:00.020-05:00

Winter skin got you down? My skin is currently driving me bonkers. It's breaking out, it's dry, it's flaky, it's oily. It's basically being a hot mess, no doubt thanks to the constantly changing weather.

One thing I find that helps my skin is a serious overnight retinol treatment. It's like a mini-facial that works while you sleep. Retinol is one of the hardest working products to reduce sun damage, fine lines and improve skin clarity. Philosophy has created their Miracle Worker line to, well, perform miracles. And while that is a strong word to use, I have no doubt that if you use the Miracle Worker Retinoid Pads, you will see a difference in your skin.

What makes Philosophy's Miracle Worker Retinoid Treatment Pads different is the way they interact with your skin. Some retinol products can can make your skin red and irritable while you are using them. Philosophy has found a way to make it a comfortable and beneficial treatment for all skin types to use every day, or every other day. with minimal redness or peeling. I experienced neither, but I am what you might call "experienced" when it comes to retinols and using strong ingredients. If you start slow by using the product every other night, you shouldn't have any issues.

What impresses me most is simple. It's no secret that product efficacy goes down the second air touches the precious ingredients. These pads arrive untreated. You actually pour the retinoid treatment serum into the container with the pads when you are ready to begin using the product. This means the product is fresh and untouched, ready for use when you are.

I've been using it for about two months and have seen a dramatic difference in the clarity of my skin. We all know my melasma defies reason, so I don't expect anything short of super lasers to really make a difference there. If you are looking for radiant skin and a reduction in fine lines, this is worth considering!

If you live in Baltimore, pick these up for yourself at About Faces - it's now available at all locations! If not in Baltimore, check them out at Philosophy.com.

Sent for review.

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Mally Beauty Takes Long Wearing Red To The Next Level

2012-01-26T08:30:00.001-05:00

Mally Roncal is the Queen of gorgois makeup that lasts and lasts. It's no surprise that she developed the perfect red lip that won't dry out your pucker, fade, migrate or look anything but fresh. The Perfect Red Lip for Everyone Three Piece Kit makes it easy for even the shyest mama to feel comfortable rockin' a red lip.

This kit comes with three signature Mally Beauty pieces. A lip primer, to lock your color in place and prevent feathering and fading, a lip liner to keep it razor sharp and the long wearing, lush lipstick. This is available in two colors, Warm Red and Neutral Red. The Warm Red is a bright, pulp fiction kind of red. It's great for a really modern twist on the classic pin-up color. It's also available in a Neutral Red, which is more of a darker, traditional red that works on everyone.

I wore the Warm Red to work for a few days to check out how well this worked. Never mind the multitude of compliments I got on the bright shade, the wear was incredible! I carefully applied the primer, liner and lippie at 8:30 am. I ate breakfast an hour later, lunch at 1 and didn't touch up my lips until 3pm. And at 3pm, I didn't apply more color. I added a tiny bit of hydrating lip balm, as it was a very cold and windy day. The color still looked fresh, bright and hadn't migrated one bit. It even made my teeth look whiter. Love it!

Pick it up from Mally Beauty on QVC for $35.

Sent for review. Not tested on animals.

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Too Faced Spring 2012 Collections Are Naturally Beautiful!

2012-01-25T08:30:00.018-05:00

Spring 2012 at Too Faced is all about natural, beautiful peachy looks. From smoldering yet neutral eyes to a peaches and cream complexion to a girl-next-door pout, Too Faced is serving up one of my favorite collections of the spring!

Let's check out the three kits I couldn't resist when I saw them in person. First up is the Natural Face Natural Radiance Palette. This collection caught my eye because of the multiple textures included. It comes with a universal luminizer, brightener and concealer in neutral shades, cream and powder cheek options along with a golden-bronze veil for an overall glow. The concealer and brightener work for me and my skin tone, but if you are much more tan than I am, the concealer (and possibly brightener) may not be for you.

(Concealer, Luminizer, Brightener, Creme Blush, Blush, Bronze Veil)

The cream blush is a really pretty neutral peach shade that is truly a perfect peach. This long wearing cream shade is perfect for layering with powder and building a sculpted cheek. The luminizer is soft and pretty and the bronzer is not too dark. Plus it comes with the signature Too Faced cards, tucked away under the flap, to show you how to work what you've got.

Next up is the latest shadow palette, the Natural at Night Palette. Similar to other Too Faced Palettes, this one contains nine coordinating shadows that give you Night, Classic and Fashion looks. These shimmering shades are perfect for a slightly shimmering, smoky work eye or a pretty, but not overdone eye for a night out. While these colors will work for anyone, those with light eyes will benefit the most from these shades. Almost all of these shades contain shimmer with a little glitter (you are going to want to use Shadow Insurance with these) with the exception of Spotlight, a slightly yellowish-bone shade and Cocoa Star, a deep brown.

(Full Moon, Night Cap, Cocoa Star, Night Light, After Hours, Eclipse, Spotlight, Moon Stone, Night Fever)

Of course, you can mix and match the shades to create your own look, or use their how-to cards.

Finally, I couldn't resist the Natural Kiss Neutral Lip Collection. I'm not always the first one to jump on lip palettes, as I hate applying the color with a brush.

(Lip Shimmer, Lip Creme 1, Lip Creme 2, Lip Gloss)

But this one was so up-my-alley-peach I had to grab it. The colors wear nicely and my favorite is the Nude Cream.

(Wearing Lip Creme 2 with Lip Shimmer)

All three of these collections make for a gorgeous, long wearing face. These are all available at Sephora and Too Faced.com from $24-$39.

I purchased these. Not tested on animals.

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Save $10 On Knockout Nails With This Checkout Code!

2012-01-24T08:30:00.001-05:00

I wrote about Knockout Nails at the end of last year and deemed it the biggest game changer for nails in 2011. In case you missed it, here is a quick synopsis of what Knockout Nails are and why you need them now.

Knockout Nails is an at-home system that gives you a long lasting, strong, clear coat over your nails that protects them from breaking and peeling, while allowing you to polish and re-polish easily whenever you want. Here is how it works.

You start by cleaning the nail with Knockout Nails Cleaner and then applying a bonder to the nail. You then apply the hardener and stick your hands under the UV light for one cycle. Then apply another coat of hardener and put your hands back under the UV light. Then you clean your nails with the cleaner, to remove the stickiness. That's it. You now have a shiny, semi-rigid coat on your nails that allows you to polish and remove polish with great ease (even glitter!). And the best part? Your nails remain gloriously shiny no matter what you do to them. The shiny coat isn't affected by polish remover or even acetone, so these are almost impossible to mess up! To remove the product, you just lightly file off the clear coat and your nails are basically back to being natural.

I've found that using Knockout Nails gives me stronger nails, my polish lasts longer, and my cuticles don't fall apart because my nails aren't peeling. It's a giant win.

The Knockout Nails kit comes with the following items (including some limited time special gifts!):

Knockout Nails UV Nail Lamp
Knockout Nails Cleaner
Knockout Nails Bonder
Knockout Nails Hardener
3 Knockout Nails Files (file, smooth, and remove)
3 Orangewood Cuticle Sticks
24 Lint Free Cleaner Pads
Knockout Nails Cuticle Oil
3 Bottles of Knockout Nails 2-Minute Drying Polish
Knockout Nails Topcoat

You can use any polish you want with Knockout Nails. It doesn't have to be a special UV polish. But I do recommend sealing it with their special top coat. It keeps everything wearing long, shiny and strong! This is different from a shellac-like system because Knockout Nails remain shiny and like new no matter what. You can use any color polish you want and it isn't affected by remover or acetone.

Pick up Knockout Nails from KnockoutNails.com $89.97. For a limited time, use checkout code kongl and save $10 off of your order!

Sent for review.

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Dancing With The Stars Extensions Change Everything

2012-01-23T08:30:00.002-05:00

It's no secret I love hair extensions. My hair closet has been well documented. When I first met Loxy, he never who was going to show up for our dates; it could be someone rocking a fall ala Britney Spears or a cute geek with side knots. I love how extensions can change your entire look. It just takes a good match and a little chutzpah to serve up a new look!

Always up for a change, I recently tried the Bango Tango Bangs to see if I really wanted to make the commitment. I'm still not 100% sold, but having the option in the meantime is fun!

Even better is the new Starlights Clip-In Color Human Hair Extensions. It's so easy to completely change your look! Add highlights or low lights in less than three minutes with no commitment whatsoever. And since it's real hair, you can curl it, blow dry it, flat iron it, whatever.

(Hair without extensions.)

And it meshes with your own hair even easier. It's 18 inches long, but can be trimmed to fit with your hairstyle. Pick a color a few shades lighter or darker for subtle looks or a more dramatic color to really spice it up. Place the highlighted weft near your temples for an easy look. If you are crafty, you can trim the weft to be placed lower around your head for sexy peekaboo highlights or low lights. The possibilities are endless!

(With Starlights extensions.)

Check them out for yourself here. Not sure what color might match you? Find a salon in your area by clicking here.

Starlights sent for review. Bangs purchased my moi.

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Lipstick League: Week of 1/16/2012 - Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed!

2012-01-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

Question of the Week: – Do you have any makeup/beauty tricks for looking more awake?

Answer: Yes! Radiant Skin is the key! You can fake anything with a good luminizer some shimmery shadow and a healthy does of mascara. Try applying a radiant primer under your foundation. I am liking the brand new one from L'OREAL, Magic Lumi. As for your eyes, try adding a bit of light sheen in the corners of your eyes and along your upper lash line. Tarte has a new pencil that makes this easy-peasy, the Bright Side Double-Ended Eye Brightener is a five second way to look like you got an extra 50 winks.

Nouveau Cheap – Pssst! Want to the know the quickest and easiest way to make drugstore rewards work for you? Get 25 to 50% off your beauty purchases ASAP and stop throwing money down the drain!

Pink Sith – has completely lost it over the new NARS Eyeshadow in Lhasa from the 2012 Spring Collection!

Prime Beauty – invites you to Sunday Brunch with Jouer. Relax, enjoy some champagne, good food and of course, makeup!

Phyrra – presents a variety of lovely lipsticks and pigmented lipglosses from Morgana Cryptoria.

Vampy Varnish – highly recommends the new Kat Von D Mi Vida Loca True Romance Eyeshadow Palette.

we heart this – DERMAdoctor’s Photodynamic Therapy lotion harness the sun’s rays to create a sunlight activated laser similar to red light lasers used in doctor’s offices. What has YOUR lotion done for you lately?

Clumps of Mascara – is in love with Finger Paints’ Twisted nail polish. What’s better than a flakie?

EauMG – falls in love with a natural citrus floral perfume, LUSH 1000 Kisses Deep.

Gouldylox Reviews – can’t stop raving about three things this week.

Krasey Beauty – Read all about the new Sigma Beauty Eyeshadow palettes, see the swatches, and then decide for yourself if they are worth your time and money. K.B sure thinks they are!

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The Glasses You Voted On Have Arrived From GlassesUSA.com!

2012-01-20T08:30:00.002-05:00

Back in December, I asked for your help in selecting a pair of glasses, to order via the interwebs from GlassesUSA.com, to see if it could be done successfully. This is a daunting task for many reasons.

1. What do the glasses look like?
2. Will they fit?
3. Will the lenses stink?
4. What if there is an issue?

Thank you for voting!! On December 13th, a winning pair of prescription glasses was selected, only to find out that too many of you also ordered the same pair and they were sold out! So I chose the runner-up pair, which I also liked quite a bit.

You may remember that my original goal was to get a new pair of eyeglasses, all said, for $125. The frames and basic lenses were $88. With the promoted site code for free shipping, I could have scored these glasses on their own for $88, plus applicable tax! However, leave it to me to have optic neuritis, so I upgraded the lenses to a lighter material and chose the anti-glare, anti-scratch, UV-protected lens to keep my eyes as comfy as possible. I bought these glasses with a gift card from the company (for $100), but because of the gift card, I couldn't use any additional coupons. So my total came in at $135.97, about $11 over my goal. However, if I could have applied a coupon for free shipping, I would have saved about $9, which would make me come in very, very close to my goal. At the end of the day, I'll call it a win and give the technicality that caused the price fail a pass.

I love how my new glasses look. They actually look really similar to how they looked on my face when I tried them on virtually. Who knew it would be that easy? I love the look and the lenses seem to be performing as well as any of my other glasses. The prescription is perfect and I couldn't be happier with how they look and fit!

Which brings me to my fourth online glasses purchasing concern. What if there is an issue? I suppose because I am me (or just a really diligent reviewer), I did have a small problem with the glasses. A day or two after they arrived, I noticed a tiny lens defect was noticeable in the upper corner of my right eye. I could have lived with it, but why should I? So I contacted the company and they quickly got back to me with a solution. They offered to send me new glasses. Perfect! Since this all took place immediately after the Christmas holiday, it took a few weeks to get the glasses in my hand, but after about two and a half weeks they arrived, in perfect condition!

So here is what I learned. For the price of two pairs of jeans or one nice purse, you can get a face changing pair of stylish glasses without leaving the comfort of your computer. If you have problems reading your prescription (which I was worried about), they will do it for you. If there is an error, they will fix it. GlassesUSA.com offers all kinds of lens options, style options and guidance. Plus the coupons and prices are pretty stellar.

If you want to switch up your look from chic to geek or hipster or just need a new pair of glasses, after going through the whole process, I would wholeheartedly recommend that you buy glasses from GlassesUSA!

A $100 gift certificate was provided to me. I paid for everything else with my own nickels.

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Beauty Shorts: Redheads, Winter Skin & Brigitte Bardot in a Brush

2012-01-19T08:30:00.014-05:00

I was reading the beauty book, About Face, by Scott Barnes and couldn't help noticing one specific comment he kept suggesting for us gingers. Instead of brown or red brow powder, add a mustard color to make your brows look more natural. I know, MUSTARD? But, to his point, yellow and brown make red. And since you are mixing the yellow with your naturally brown brows, you'll get a red that suits your skin and hair. Since my brows are dishwater-bleck, I did my brows as usual, with my brownish red Trish McEvoy brow powder and then added a bit of mustard color shadow from MAC (I have no clue what it is. It's in a Z palette from a schmillionty years ago) and it looks fantastic. Who knew? Check out more tips from Scott Barnes in his book, About Face.

My skin has been looking a little on the blah side lately, and I've been reaching in my arsenal for products that can pull skin out of a funk. I'm having a hard time, as I've started breaking out a little bit as well. But breakouts aside, my skin is just lackluster. One product I raved about last year came out of the closet to kick the blahs out of face. By Nieves "C Perfect Skin" somehow does a fantastic job of giving my skin a radiance when nothing else does. I can't explain it, I just revel in the radiance. Pick it up for $35 or check out my original review here.

It's not secret I'm Thermafused, which means my hair is now pretty straight. This means, I usually reach for some kind of volumizer in the morning to help give my hair a little boost. While I don't understand how a brush can make such a difference, the John Frieda Full Volume Round Porcupine Brush is one hard working volumizer. The brush has a combination of nylon and boar bristles that distribute your scalp's natural oils, while giving your hair major oomph. There are also little bands of silicone embedded in the brush for extra shine, and tourmaline crystals to keep away the frizz. This brush almost makes my hair too big. Without any extra volumizing products. Pinky swear. I don't get it, but my hair is a different animal when I use this brush. It's like a little, magical Brigitte Bardot in a brush.

Loxy got the book from the library for me and By Nieves sent me the product last year.

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Switch Up Your Winter Wardrobe With Hats

2012-01-18T08:30:00.001-05:00

Some moments stay with you forever. For many people, it's a really special moment. For me, it's oddities related to pop culture. I'm weird that way, but you already knew that. (I really don't take baths out of a fear of sharks, so don't act so surprised.) Anyway, I'll never forget starting sixth grade after seeing the movie Sixteen Candles. In one scene, Sam Baker wears a hat to school. I remember literally being blown away and thinking, "You can wear hats? To school?" It was like someone said I could be something I never, ever thought I could be. A hat person. My BFF Buffy bought me a pink Panama Jack hat for my 13th birthday a year or so later. I loved that hat. But I looked weird wearing it.

(A poorly photoshopped rendition of my beloved hat. My mom still has it.)

Years later, when I transferred to Temple University, I distinctly remember my Mom saying that I could be anything I wanted to be. A TV producer. A writer. A hat person. You know what? I think I'm finally all three.

It's the perfect time of year to introduce yourself to your inner-hat-person at Womens-Hats.com. Especially if you are in the Midwest right now, where I'm told it's "brutally cold with the wind".* With the dry shampoos and anti-humidity sprays on the market, there is no reason to avoid a hat!

I am currently digging the Winter Cloache from Scala. It's easy to wear, packable and comes in a variety of colors! And because we are friends, get free ground shipping when you use code scalapronto! The Cloache hat is already 20% off, so pick one up before they are gone! The code expires soon, so use the code before it's too late.

*I think the person who constantly tells me how brutally cold it is should pull up their knickers and get a hat. :-)

Sent for review.

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Easy Ways To Get Golden Globe Hair at Home

2012-01-17T08:30:00.022-05:00

(source: Getty Images)

Whose hair did you love at the Globes? I adored Madonna's waves (but not her one glove and Like A Virgin necklace). Busy Phillips arrived in a bouffant updo, simply gorgeous and right on style with my current love affair with an Adele (not Snooki) bump. Claire Danes has been one of my favorites ever since she was an awkward redhead in love with Jordan Catalano, so I was thrilled to see her win and have some of the best hair of the night.

Want to get these looks for yourself? Wella is giving away loads of product that will help give you these looks, so don't miss out! Learn how to get the styles and win the product after the jump!

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Ambiance Dry Shampoo and Root Cover Is Perfect For Those of Us Who Are Normally Forgotten.

2012-01-16T11:00:00.002-05:00

I recently had my hair Thermafused a second time, which means my hair was left significantly lightened between my Thermafuse process and my hair color appointment several days later. For reasons I won't go into publicly, I needed my hair to look like its usual medium red hair color, and without any grays showing. This was a tall order, considering I needed to take my almost strawberry hair temporarily two shades darker, asap.

Like manna from heaven, I received a sample of Ambiance Dry Shampoo and Root Cover in the mail that same day. I applied the color all over my hair, at the roots and down the hair shaft and my hair was magically about two shades darker. No one could tell that my hair had been temporarily lightened and I didn't have gray roots.

(My hair in this photo is at least 2 shades lighter than it appears. You can see where I missed a little on my right temple. The roots above my bangs are perfectly covered, as is my significantly lighter hair!)

The best part? The powder didn't stray from my hair one bit. It stayed put, like an army of red soldiers, intent on holding down the color fort. It didn't come off on my pillow and still looked wonderful the next morning.

I was blown away, not only by how well it covered my gray roots, but how it colored my entire head for two entire days and nights. My only gripe is that it comes out very, very fast. You have to be very careful with this and turn your head, NOT the applicator tube when applying. If you hold the tube brush side down, the powder will run out. If you tilt your head and the brush, you can get a much more even application, without the mess.

This is a fantastic root cover and dry shampoo. If you need to extend the time between salon appointments or use a powder dry shampoo, this is definitely one to try out. However, it's only available in Red, Black and Gray. Almost like they made one for us kids who normally get left out or picked last. If you are on my team, pick up Ambiance from DryShampoo.com for $19.95.

Sent for review.

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Lipstick League: 1/9/2012

2012-01-15T09:07:00.000-05:00

Nouveau Cheap – If you’re a fan of the Wet n Wild 8-pan eyeshadow palettes, the new Black Radiance 8-pan palette in Downtown Browns is a must-see.

Pink Sith – educates you on the dangers of Severe Chanel Blush Withdrawal (SCBW) and explains how the latest Chanel Blush Horizon de Chanel saved her life

Prime Beauty – got Mega Drag Queen lashes with RevitaLash Lash Conditioner and now you can too. Head on over to Prime Beauty to see the before and after pictures and enter to win a 3-month supply of RevitaLash and a RevitaLash mascara!

Phyrra – tries out a new line of eye shadows from well-known blogger Marlena of the Makeup Geek.

Vampy Varnish – checks out the new MAC collection called MAC, Naturally.

we heart this – you’re not a color lover if you don’t have a bit of Sugarpill in your stash.

Clumps of Mascara – has a guest editor discuss infertility and wonders why more women aren’t discussing it.

EauMG – is in love with this decadent, self-indulgent vanilla by DSH Perfumes.

Krasey Beauty – shows you some brand spanking new additions to the LUSH Cosmetics line. Bathtime is funtime, in LUSH land.

Beauty Blog Link Love: It's Finally Cold!

2012-01-14T10:12:00.000-05:00

I know I am one of the only people who probably appreciate the cold, but I do. It's a perfect day to bundle up in an old comfy hoodie and stay home. I love days like this. And today, I'm being treated to a makeover nook redesign! If I wasn't so embarrassed by how crazy it looks before, I would post pictures. I'm hoping the transformation will be so amazing, I'll change my mind. In the meantime, check out what's new in Beautyland from some of my favorite bloggers!

Read about the Clarisonic Mia in this Sephora haul post over at Handmade Reviews.

Looking for that perfect peachy-pink easy to wear lipcolor? Pammy Blogs Beauty finds it with Hard Candy's World Balmination Lip Balm in Good Girl. Check out her review!

At Eyelining Obsessions Claire shares some tips for flight safe/ travel friendly makeup packing.

Jude reviews Bioderma Créaline H2O, the make-up remover used by make-up artists.

Time to make way for the new! 10 Mascaras I Am Throwing Away For The New Year by Bun Bun Makeup Tips!

The Beauty Spot finds some affordable Nails Inc Dupes. Check them out!

Addicted to Beauty feels that the Benefit Cosmetics and Diet Coke collaboration is pretty shady.

Check out FabDiva20's MAC lipgloss haul and swatch comparisons of the MAC Iris Aphel Collection Lipsticks!

Makeup Morsels finally picks up an eyeshadow brush (or two), and attempts an EOTD.

Fleurissante picks her favourite products in 2011.

Check out how Krasey Beauty rang in the New Year, face of the day included!

---

Cindy over at Prime Beauty achieved her dream of Mega Drag Queen lashes with RevitaLash Lash Conditioner and now you can too. Head on over to Prime Beauty and enter to win a 3 month supply of RevitaLash and mascara!

Enter to win a $100 ShopBop gift card on Beauty Info Zone.

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Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush: Get Yours Before They're All Gone!

2012-01-12T08:30:00.005-05:00

If you see these on a shelf, run, do not walk and pick up your favorite colors. They are going to be impossible to find. Trust me!

As one of the first decent cream-powder hybrids at the drugstore level, Maybelline's new Dream Bouncy Blushes, are going to move fast. Sure, there are other cream blushes. But these are special.

First of all, they actually feel bouncy. The name doesn't lie. The texture is actually like a sponge, but smooth and satin-y. When you apply the color, you get a burst of color that sinks into your cheeks and leaves a dewy glow. It seems to magically blur the edges and add a slight radiance to the skin. I picked up Candy Coral to try for myself, but there are ten colors to choose from!

(Candy Coral with flash. The radiance is so pretty!)

You can apply these in a few ways. With a sponge, dabbed and feathered out. With your fingers, which isn't my first choice. Or my preferred method, with a densely packed blush brush.

(Candy Coral without a flash.)

You'll need the tension on the bristles to pick up the color, but then the color will melt into your skin.

(Wearing Candy Coral)

These are going to be hard to find, and I am already hearing reports of them being sold out in advance of them officially launching. If you check them out, let me know what you think!

I bought this. I want more of them.

Subscribe and never miss a thing! Disclosure/Disclaimer Statement. Makeup, beauty, skincare reviews and more! Copyright 2009-2011, Gouldylox Reviews. All Rights Reserved.

2012 Golden Globes Hair Trends & How To Get The Look

2012-01-11T14:03:00.001-05:00

The Golden Globes are nearing, and while some are excited to see which movies and miniseries win, we're excited to see the celebs, dresses and 'dos! We talked to Wella Professionals Celebrity Hairstylist Andy LeCompte and Wella Professionals Color Ambassador Aura Friedman about their predictions on what hairstyles will make their way down the red carpet on Sunday night. They've had the pleasure of working with Golden Globe stars, including Penelope Cruz, Jennifer Lopez, Fergie, and Megan Fox. Find out who's wearing what styles and how to get the look!

Read more after the jump!

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Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation with SPF 15

2012-01-11T08:30:00.010-05:00

Tarte is one of my favorite brands and their foundations always make my skin look flawless and dewy. I can't do without their Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer in the summer. However, I need more coverage than that for most of the year, so I was delighted to learn they were releasing a full coverage foundation!

Tarte's Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Full Coverage Foundation with SPF 15 is more like a mousse than a cream, yet it comes in a tube. So I suppose officially it's whipped. It's definitely not a sheer foundation, but it's not so pigmented that you feel or look like you are wearing a mask. It's available in five traditional colors, so one should hopefully work for you! It's also waterproof and oil-free. Score!

The coverage can be applied with the brush it comes with, a densely packed, yet fluffy foundation brush. While this isn't the traditional brush associated with applying foundation, it does a fantastic job of applying an airy amount of foundation. What do I mean by airy? It's a full foundation, but the application with the brush isn't so heavy that it looks fake or caked. The brush manages to blend out edges and coverage, giving you a semi-matte fuller finish, almost like an airbrushed finish. You can also apply it with a beauty blender to achieve a slightly heavier coverage, should that be needed. You can always opt to apply with a sponge and then soften the whole look by going over it with the brush, which is my preferred method of application.

(Me in the morning)

(Me 12 hours later.)

I found that this foundation wore for a minimum of 12 hours without needing a touch up. Even my blush is still in place. I've used no powder, no nothing. I'm impressed. Really impressed! If you need a long wearing foundation, with a nice amount of smooth and natural coverage, this is definitely worth checking out!

While I'm not sure this is helpful information, my nephew-dog Walter, seemed intent on licking all of it off of my face on a recent trip to New Jersey. I would have sworn I had Peanut Butter French Toast smeared on my face instead of eating it, but I didn't. I've never gotten so many dog kisses at one time in my life.

Sent for review. Not tested on animals. Except Walter, and that was not intentional.

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Buxom True Hue Blushes + Swatches

2012-01-10T08:30:00.006-05:00

Coming this February to a Sephora near you: the new line of pressed blushes from Buxom!

Starting in a little less than two weeks, Buxom (from Bare Escentuals) will be launching eight finely milled, pressed blushes that will light up your face! I was able to get my hands on four of the colors: Luviate, Euphoria, Rendezvous, and Swept Away.

(Euphoria)

These colors are seriously pigmented and so, so smooth. Because they are so pigmented, you'll want to apply them with a fluffy blush brush, instead of a tightly packed angled brush.

(Rendezvous)

You'll want to take it slow with most of these colors to avoid overdoing it. In all honesty, this is a problem I would rather have than those dry blushes that leave no trace of color behind.

(Luviate)

I love Luviate. It reminds me of a more gentle version of Orgasm (by NARS). I love sculpting my cheeks using a combination of Euphoria, Swept Away and Luviate.

(Swept Away)

It's a fresh look that wears well. Because this is such a finely milled powder, be sure to prep your face appropriately before applying.

(Wearing Euphoria and Luviate)

As with any powders, dry skin patches will hold on to more color than other areas. Since they do pack such a pigment punch, you'll want to make sure you are well-blended!

(Rendezvous, Swept Away, Euphoria, Luviate)

Check these out from Sephora for $24 each, beginning in February.

Sent for review. Not tested on animals.

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NEOVA Attacks Photoaging with Copper Peptides

2012-01-09T08:30:00.025-05:00

Everyone seems to be hard at work, looking for the best way to undo the effect of years of sun we bathed in as kids. While I didn't use baby oil or a reflector, I definitely got my share of burns. Sun poisoning even (I'll never go to Preakness again). So if someone has something to undo the damage, especially on my nose, I'll try it.

NEOVA then, sounds like it might be just what I need. They tell us that they are the

first clinical skin care company to bring real innovation to the photo aging category by introducing Copper Peptide Complex technology products. These award-winning formulas target photodamaged skin, help to visibly repair it and revolutionize the way women care for their skin. Neova is among the first skin care brands to make the association between DNA damage and premature skin aging and provides complete, continuous and optimized correction with DNA Repair and Copper Combination Therapy skin care.

I tried three products from the line. The NEOVA Maximum Body Repair Lotion, the Total Night Therapy and the Total Day Therapy. Let's take a look at all three.

NEOVA Maximum Body Repair Lotion is a lotion that sinks in and helps repair even the most dry skin. Using Copper Peptides and DNA Repair Technology, this lotion will help diminish the signs of aging all over your body. It also helps skin stay hydrated over time.

NEOVA Total Day Therapy is a rich cream that helps diminish fine lines, reverse sun damage, create a serious moisture barrier and protect skin with an SPF of 30. This cream is intense. If you have dry skin, your skin will drink this in. A little goes a long way, so while you have to use enough to get the sun protection factor, you won't run out of it quickly.

NEOVA Total Night Therapy is also a rich cream that focuses on restoring moisture levels in the skin, while copper peptides work to diminish the signs of aging and antioxidants help repair free radical damage.

I found all of the products to be extremely hydrating. If you suffer from dry skin that looks aged due to the elements, this line may go a long way towards restoring a dewy, hydrated skin surface. My skin definitely appreciated the extra hydration, though I found it almost too hydrating to use every night. Application every other night struck the perfect balance for refreshing my winter skin.

Check it out at NextDerm.com and see if it is a good fit for you!

Product sent for review.

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Lipstick League: 1/2/2012 Post Holiday Picks

2012-01-07T07:07:00.000-05:00

Question of the Week: – What’s your favorite eyeshadow primer?

Answer: Right now, I'm still loving the Chanel Ombre D'Eau, which isn't officially a primer, but it makes for a great one!

Krasey Beauty – So, how did you ring in 2012? Krasey Beauty shows you what she wore to ring in the new year.

Pink Sith – Looking for a new job? The Pink Sith has some Interview tips to make sure you make a good first impression, talks about an app that will enhance your career networking and offers a giveaway to boot!

Phyrra – shows a little skin with Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Pure Nude & Pure Opal sparkle powders.

Prime Beauty – has a new obsession with Tarte’s Puttin’ On The Glitz Clutch and Palette. The selection, the quality, the price! One lucky reader can also benefit from her shopping addiction by winning their very own Puttin’ On The Glitz Palette!

we heart this – check out Stef’s top ten favorite products of 2011. It’s got it all – high-end, drugstore, names you know and names you should!

Beauty Junkies Unite – Take a peek at all 10 new Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes, and then run to the store to pick your favorite one(s) up! These have already sold out at two of my local drugstores!

Clumps of Mascara – had many reasons to love 2011. From The Hunger Games to goat cheese, 2011 rocked.

Gouldylox Reviews – Looking for a beauty fix that won’t break the bank, post holidays? Score one of these and feel you found a sweet treasure!

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Suave Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo Smells Divine.

2012-01-06T08:30:00.001-05:00

Suave, the best kept secret in the hair aisle, has recently jumped into the formaldehyde-free keratin-based, hair-straightening game. I'm still Thermafused, so I haven't tried it, but if you have, I would love to hear your experience!

To go with their at-home Keratin system, they have also launched a full line of products, including a Lower Sulfate Shampoo and Conditioner for virgin and colored hair, a Heat Defense Leave-In Conditioner, a Smooth & Shine Serum and a Dry Shampoo. While I can't explain why they need sulfate in the shampoo at all, I can tell you that the Dry Shampoo is the bee's knees.

First of all, like all Suave Dry Shampoos, it smells amazing, better than any other hair product I currently have in my arsenal. It also keeps my second-, third- and in a pinch, fourth-day hair looking great (or, honestly, on the fourth day, passable). It's a tricky thing for a dry shampoo to keep the winning streak alive that long, but this one seems to do it effortlessly.

It is also great to spray throughout your hair, not just on your scalp. It gives you volume, a fresh scent, takes away extra oils and costs less than almost any other dry shampoo on the market. And there is no residual whiteness. There is virtually no whiteness at all! You can spray it into a pool in your hand and there is next to no whiteness. Perfection! Check out this dry shampoo and the entire line of Suave Keratin Infusion Products here.

Have you tried their dry shampoos? Would you try their at-home straightening system or would you rather pay a few hundred at the salon and be done with it? Tell me in the comments!

I've bought enough Suave in my days to fill a truck. This particular one was sent for review.

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Keep Delicate Lashes Healthy: Talika Oil-Free Lash Conditioning Cleanser

2012-01-05T08:30:00.011-05:00

If you are one of the droves of people using a lash-enhancing serum, or you took the plunge and got lash extensions, you know that the results you get are only as good as the care you give your lashes. Especially if you have lash extensions, you know you have to be extremely careful with them, or they won't last.

Your lashes are the most vulnerable when you are removing your makeup. It's important to use a gentle cleanser that removes all of your eye makeup, while still caring for your fringe. Right now, I'm loving Talika's Oil-Free Lash Conditioning Cleanser. Silk proteins help strengthen your lashes while Cornflower Extract acts as a softener and gentle astringent. A little goes a long way and if growing your natural lashes or maintaining your lash extensions is high on your list of priorities, this is a must-have!

Pick it up for around $25 from Talika.com.

Sent for review.

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L'OREAL Infallible 24 HR Eye Shadow

2012-01-04T08:30:00.001-05:00

I recently discovered some new shadows at my Walgreens that caught my eye. One of my biggest peeves when it comes to drugstore brands is the lack of serious pigment in shadows. While it's not always an issue, it can be, and it's enough of an issue to make me stay away from a lot of drugstore shadows. However, some new shades that landed at drugstores recently have me rethinking things.

I couldn't resist picking up three of the new L'OREAL Infallible 24HR Eye Shadows. I selected Midnight Blue, Eternal Black and Perpetual Purple, the three darkest and most intense shades.

When you look at these shadows, they are different. First, they have an odd texture. It's kind of like if a powder shadow had a baby with the Buxom Stay There Shadows.

It's an interesting combination that isn't quite powder and isn't quite a cream. Each one of these hybrid products has a slightly different texture.

Where the Chanel Illusion d'Ombre Shadows have a creamy, whipped texture and the Buxom has a spongy texture, these are more of a dry but bouncy, ink-pad-like texture.

They are still creamy, but they are much drier than some of their counterparts.

The color I got from these shades packs a serious punch! The swatches are true to how they look on your eye. In these photos, I'm wearing Midnight Blue over a sheer, nude eye primer. I did blend the edge with a sheer, frosty white and added a black liner. But the blue itself is pretty amazing! I had the best luck applying these with a semi-stiff, wide, flat brush. To blend out edges, I used a stiff domed brush.

You will need a little extra oomph to move these around on the eye, especially if you use a sticky primer. Finally, you will want to move fast, as once they dry down, they become even trickier to move. My shadow wore for about 14 hours without fading or creasing. It didn't actually fade, it was just time to wash my face!

Currently, these are available in twelve shades for under $10 each. If you are looking for a long-wearing, highly pigmented shadow, these would be a great choice to check out!

MesmerEYES Mascara by Napoleon Perdis

2012-01-03T08:30:00.027-05:00

If you want lush, defined black lashes and aren't afraid to try something new, check out MesmerEYES from Napoleon Perdis. This mascara has panthenol, vitamin E and bamboo to condition your lashes. Depending on how its applied, you can get volume or length, wispy or spidery lashes. It's up to you!

(It's not a regular brush at all! It's a flat comb!)

This mascara doesn't have a traditional brush, but has instead a dual-sided paddle. I like to apply the mascara like this, to achieve a beautifully natural look:

(It has baby teeth on the top and bigger teeth on the bottom.)

1. Use the flat side of the paddle to apply the mascara to the underside of your top lashes.

2. Then use the wide-toothed side to comb through clumps and spread the mascara around the lashes.

3. Use the tiny-combed side to really finesse how the lashes look.

(No mascara, naked lashes.)

(Wearing two coats of MesmerEYES.)

(The final look.)

The final look is stunning and you can layer it to make your lashes as wow-worthy as you want. I haven't had flaking or clumping issues with this mascara. It gives good lash, as long as you are willing to experiment a little!

Check it out from Napoleon Perdis for $25.

Not tested on animals. Sent for review.

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Make Up For Ever: HD Complexion Starter Kit

2012-01-02T08:30:00.016-05:00

I often take people shopping for makeup, to help them find the products that work best for their particular skin. However, if you are new to makeup, it's expensive. To get a flawless face, before you even start to think about eyeshadow, blush and lips, you need a perfect canvas. This means a foundation, primer and setting powder, plus the tools to put it on, and that can be intimidating (and expensive) on its own.

One of my favorite combinations to share with people is Make Up For Ever's Primer, Foundation and Finishing Powder. It gives me flawless coverage that lasts all day, with minimal transfer to my glass-front smartphone. The trick is, no doubt, starting with the primer and finishing with the powder. But the foundation is pretty amazing as well. MUFE recently launched their HD Complexion Starter Kit, which contains all three items, including your perfect foundation shade. Like all MUFE products, they don't just offer Fair, Medium and Deep. They actually have twenty five shades, so one is probably perfect for you.

I know it an be intimidating to buy foundation online or even in a Sephora, so to help with that, MUFE has created an online shade finder that totally takes the guesswork out of foundation shopping. Don't believe me? Check it out here. You just pick the basic shade your skin falls under, then the next closest tone and then, voila! You have the perfect shade. This helps figure out which undertone is the correct choice for your skin. In the past, if you've selected the wrong one and oxidized strangely, it may be because the undertone was incorrect. This makes it easy.

This foundation, when used with the primer and the powder, give you a polished, semi-matte finish. Your skin will look even-toned and fresh. Since the colors match your skin so well, there are no harsh lines to worry about.

Already love Make Up For Ever? Starting today, January 2, and going through February 1, jump at the chance to be their new model in a upcoming Unretouched ad. Finalists will all appear on Facebook and the winner will get flown to NYC and will appear in the upcoming campaign! To enter, just upload your own actual photo to www.hd.makeupforeverusa.com.

Kit was sent for review. Not tested on animals.

Subscribe and never miss a thing! Disclosure/Disclaimer Statement. Makeup, beauty, skincare reviews and more! Copyright 2009-2011, Gouldylox Reviews. All Rights Reserved.