makeup loves me

review: luster white 7 toothpaste.

2012-01-31T08:11:00.000-05:00

the huge red lips on my luster white 7 toothpaste make it look like it stepped right off the rocky horror picture show set, but i have a penchant for conversation-worthy toiletries.

named for it's 7 powerful whitening agents, i think it's working - i could swear my teeth looked whiter yesterday. the formula is infused with eubiotics, powerful essential oils that promote mouth health. the minty taste is fresh, but not overpowering or alcoholic.

in sum: i like it as a toothpaste and love it as a piece of decor. $6.99 at lusteroralcarestore.com.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection and attended a movie screening for the film new year's eve sponsored by the brand.

best laser hair removal in NYC + promo code.

2012-01-30T07:56:00.001-05:00

beauties, i'm back to getting lasered at beam laser spa in hopes of being hairless by 2013! a lot has changed since the team at beam expertly removed my underarm hair in 2008 (which never grew back; to be reminded of my previous beam visits click here).

what's new with beam? beam has moved to new location (same building, bigger space) that has breath-taking views of columbus circle and a private bathroom. also, the brazilian sister owners have added, joanne, a physician's assistant to their team. joanne's background is cosmetic dermatology, so she knows her stuff. she is also super conscientious about following up with clients and get at answering any prep/after care questions.

this time around i'm getting my lower legs laser-ed. it's a much bigger area than my underarms, so it's a real endurance test, especially because the bony areas (like ankles), can be painful. however, joanne takes her time with me and allows me breaks as needed.

beauties, i want you to join me in my hairlessness, so i asked beam if they could offer a deal to my readers -- and they said yes! if you want to try beam, use this promo code: mention this site (MakeupLovesMe.com) during february 2012 to receive 6 sessions for the price of 4 on any body part! call them at 212-245-2577 to get started.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com has received gratis treatments to become familiar with this spa.

pantene nature fusion learn & earn opportunity!

2012-01-28T17:30:00.000-05:00

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com is working with RecycleBank .com to bring you this series and received a $200 gift card as part of this collaboration.

review: slim-fast 3-2-1, plus my nigel barker photo!

2012-01-27T08:32:00.003-05:00

beauties, slim-fast is the chocoholics diet. for the woman or man with a sweet tooth, and a deadline, this is the diet.

last week i met the slim-fast team of experts to get the skinny on their 3-2-1 plan and how to plan for a "wow" moment. the talent-loaded team included stylist/makeup artist joey maalouf, fashion photographer nigel barker, stylist jacqui stafford, chef robin miller and slim-fast nutritionist ali auerbach, MS, RD.

this is a diet for someone with a deadline in mind. if you have what they call a "wow" moment coming up (wedding, reunion, corporate function), listen up. the 3-2-1 diet involves one 500 calorie healthy meal/day (think: fish tacos with tons of fresh veggies), two slim-fast shakes as meal replacements, and three 100 calorie snacks (either from the slim-fast collection or of your own choosing). now, i tried slim-fast shakes 5 years ago when they were in a tin can and those shakes tasted like a tin can. the new shakes in a bottle are roughly a million times better. the creamy milk chocolate shake is my favorite, and is almost indistinguishable from my favorite beverage, a real chocolate milkshake.

after joey maalouf prepped me, nigel barker took my "wow" moment photo. the reason i'm grinning like this is meeting nigel barker was my wow moment. he was so disarmingly charming that i couldn't stop talking. also, he's much bigger in person than you might imagine watching ANTM.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection and attended the event described for possible review.

new: kiehl's ultra facial 3 step kit.

2012-01-25T08:56:00.003-05:00

kiehl's - known for their high quality, effective skincare - has introduced the 3 step ultra facial kit. kits include ultra facial cleanser, ultra facial toner and ultra facial cream; everything skin needs to get through winter.

this is the kit i would take with me to aspen, if i was ever going to such a place. i imagine it being the most soothing thing on windburned skin; it's gentle but moisture-filled. i've been using the kit on my dull, dry winter skin - and loving the results. my favorite step is the ultra facial cleanser, it's hard to find the perfect mild cleanser that removes makeup without drying the skin.

the entire 3 piece set sells for just $26(!) at kiehls' stores and www.kiehls.com. also available in an oil-free version for the acne prone. both kits are infused with squalane, kiehl's iconic ingredient; a botanical liquid that helps skin hold moisture.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection for possible review.

spring 2012 hair trend: scupted updos.

2012-01-24T08:11:00.000-05:00

photo credit: fashionologie.com

what seems like eons ago, in december i met with redken's creative consultant, guido, to discuss spring hair trends. i'm absolutely enchanted by what he calls "shape shifters", sculpted high drama updos, such as the hair seen at jean paul gaultier's spring/summer 2012 show.

if you have the perfect event for this defined and disciplined look i recommend taking bringing this pic to your salon and asking your most trusted (and talented stylist to get to work). however, if you're looking a slightly muted DIY version, here's guido's advice:

shake redken powder grip 03 mattifying hair powder into your roots for lasting volume and grip, then roll your sides back and slick hair into a neat bun. make sure to keep it high and neat! secure with bobby pins, and make sure to press all the loose pieces into place, this isn't a messy bun.

about powder grip 03 mattifying hair powder: one of redken's style connection products, it creates a matte finish that extends the life of updos and blowouts alike. recommended for all hair types. retailing for $14.50 at salons and spas.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection for possible review and attended an event to sponsored by redken.

new: essie spring 2012 collection + sally hansen nail art pen design ideas.

2012-01-23T08:01:00.000-05:00

beauties, essie's spring 2012 echos the spring trend of mixing ultra brights and soft pastels with 6 new shades.

brand founder and global creative director, essie weingarten, drew inspiration for this line from beautiful, ambitious women of action. in both fashion and finance, this woman is ready, willing, and able to strike out on her own and take a chance.

the shades from left to right:

navigate her - new growth green
a crewed interest - pretty pursuable peach
to buy or not to buy - limitless lilac shimmer
tour de finance - incandescent fuchsia futures
ole caliente - spicy scarlet fever
orange, it's obvious! - headstrong outspoken orange

available february 2012, $8 a bottle, wherever essie is sold.

below i sport to buy or not to buy, along with some designs i created with sally hansen's nail art pens. i used the white, gold, and silver shades to create simple patterns (mainly stars and strategically placed polka dots). the pens are easy to use and somewhat addictive, i can see myself collecting all 11 shades. just be mindful to seal in with clear coat after your handiwork, two of my fingers wiped clean! available for approximately $7 a pen at mass retails nationwide.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection for possible review.

review: erno laszlo hollywood collection.

2012-01-19T09:50:00.006-05:00

this is a treasure chest. erno laszlo - dermatologist to the stars of the silver screen - counted greta garbo, ava gardner, grace kelly, katherine hepburn, and marilyn monroe among his famous clientele. in celebration of these sirens, his brand has released a collection of 5 creams, inspired by the unique formulas dr. laszlo created for each starlet.

i immediately fell in love with marilyn's cream - morning rescue beauty - seduced by it's soft pink hue flecked with semi-precious gems and liquified pearls, this potion is based on the one the good doctor made for the star when she had to be on set after a long night on the town. however, greta garbo's anti aging night cream is what won my heart; so rich and luxurious that the only way to describe it is to liken it to a bedtime hug for your face.

i recommend "the collection", all 5 creams for $125, this way you can find your favorite. plus, the set could not be more esthetically pleasing; housed in black art-deco inspired jars, each formula is a soft, french, pastel shade. available presently at ernolaszlo.com and nordstrom.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection for possible review and attended a lovely event to become more familiar with the line.

new: nars spring 2012 collection.

2012-01-18T08:59:00.002-05:00

nars spring 2012 collection is 9 pieces of bold color and popping pastels. though the collection does not reference a specific inspiration, it's reminiscent of the galapagos -- that juxtaposition of exotic color with a sense of nature.

my absolute must-have from the collection is mexican rose velvet lip pencil ($24); it's namesake plant is known for its gray green or blue gray leaves with long-lasting flowers that bloom pink, red and yellow in the spring and summer. while the lip color is described as hot pink, it's a hair softer than that, bright but wearable. it's the perfect winter getaway lip, because it looks great on winter pale skin, but feels tropical. i wish i'd has this last week in DR!

i also think all shades of purple nail are having a moment this spring, and the rich metallic shade of diamond life ($17) is unique to the nars. see swatch below (i did my own mani, always a mistake).

entire collection on narscosmetics.com.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples from this collection for possible review.

new: maybelline dream bouncy blush.

2012-01-17T19:49:00.001-05:00

ever since my engagement people keep mentioning "my glow", which has been getting some behind the scenes help from maybelline's new dream bouncy blush.

as a blush connoisseur, dream bouncy blush is a coveted collectible. the little orbs have a mousse-like texture that is easy to blend with fingers. available in 10 shades, which range from soft natural shades to brighter cherry tones., my favorite "inner glow" creator is rose petal. if your fair skinned, buy this color now. the only downside? the color doesn't last all day, but the discs are compact and light enough that you can easily throw it your purse for touch-ups.

on shelves now, for a suggested retail price of $7.99.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of this product for possible review and attended an event for it's launch.

review: garnier skin renew bb cream miracle skin perfector.

2012-01-16T07:39:00.000-05:00

beauties, someone might be reading my thoughts. just as the pale of winter was dulling out my skin last week and i started dreaming of a new, radiant, tinted moisturizer, garnier skin renew bb cream miracle skin perfector came into my life.

available in two shades - light/medium and medium/dark - this "BB", or beauty balm, cream has a lighter formula than most tinted moisturizers but gives tons of luminosity, owed to it's tinted mineral pigments. while beauty balms are globally loved - german women originally used them while recovering from laser surgery and korean film stars laud it as their beauty secret - this is one of the first to hit the US mass market. what the cream lacks in coverage (i still need a concealer with it for all my trouble areas), it makes up for by working over each use to gradually brighten complexion and even tone.

on counters at mass retailers nationwide february 2012; suggested retail price $12.99.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of this product for possible review, as well as two awesome B-shaped balloons.

back from vacation (all i ever wanted)!

2012-01-15T18:43:00.004-05:00

beauties, things have been a bit of whirlwind (in the best way possible) in my the world of makeup loves me lately. i just returned from a wonderful ( and warm!, NYC, what is wrong with you?!) 4 days in the dominican republic with my new fiance. the above picture is what it looked like every, single, second.

my only complaint is, beauties, i always forget the most crucial things when i travel. i took this picture for you of the makeup i brought -- and that is for 4 days! i have 7 lip colors and 4 blushes! however, i brought almost no toiletries! i always forget how convenient my conveniences are in NYC with a duane reade on every corner and a canadian pharmacy online willing to deliver at all hours. lesson learned, next time i will back my shampoo!

but other than that, puerto plata was beautiful. i spent everyday on the beach with a pina colada in hand. now back to the real world...

review: nail inc. vitamin E oil pen.

2012-01-10T08:43:00.005-05:00

my mom is here! whenever she comes to town she gravitates towards beauty products that i've long forgotten. several months ago i received the nails inc. vitamin E oil pen, and promptly put it aside to play with something flashier.

since my mom is visiting NYC from florida her hands are dry, and since she's recently gotten into shellac nails she doesn't want anything messing with manicure. nails inc. viatmin E oil pen is her new-found must-have recommendation for fellow shellac-ers.

in her words: this pen delivers just enough oil, it isn't stingy, but it's not so much that your greasing up everything you touch for the next 5 minutes. she's smitten.

$10 at sephora.com.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of this product for possible review.

review: bobbi brown neons & nudes.

2012-01-09T10:07:00.005-05:00

i heard a rumor this past fall (from someone who works for BB) that bobbi brown was creating an all neon and nude collection for spring -- and i knew at that moment that i was about to fall in love.

the rumors proved to be very true, and bobbi brown's neons & nudees for spring 2012 is now all over the internet, and currently on shelves and at bobbibrown.com. this collection is a lot of fun, and the pieces are easy to mix and match with one another. the intended purpose is to pick eyes or lips for your neon, and make the other one your neutral. as bobbi says, "the most modern way to wear bright color is as an accent on an otherwise neutral face."

for eyes:

for lips and cheeks:

while every piece is this collection is functional, the blushes and the glosses are my the hidden gems of this collection, both are bright without stealing the spotlight and can easily be day or night pieces. nude pink plush with cosmic pink lip gloss is my daytime go to look for this week.

if the winter blues have you dying to switch up your look i suggest playing with these pieces at the bobbi counter and deciding on a few pieces to take home, they are definite mood lifters.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of these products for possible review.

review: NYX cosmetics matte lipstick.

2012-01-06T10:52:00.001-05:00

beauties, signature lips aren't so much a 2012 resolution as an ongoing life goal of mine, even before every j crew model sported a bold lip. my inner monologue states: must have awesome lips. matte lipsticks are especially useful in creating an intense, finished look. because of this obsession, NYX cosmetics matte lipstick is my new favorite thing to hoard.

my favorite thing about this product is that it comes in all of my favorite colors (see below). if i were to create a matte lipstick, these are the shades i would make (so i guess i don't have to)! my current absolute favorites are hippie chic, nude, and whipped caviar. each makes their own statement.

word of caution - because they are super matte, they show any lip imperfections, so be sure to exfoliate lips before using.

$6 (as in, practically free!) at nyxcosmetics.com.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of this products for possible review.

dry shampoo fight club (a review of three new dry shampoos).

2012-01-03T11:00:00.000-05:00

beauties - mara's resolution is to dry shampoo more, and on that note she tests out 3 newer dry shampoos on the market; read what she finds:

one of my new year's resolutions is to take better care of my hair -- and that means not washing it every day. but if you have thin hair or very fair hair like i do, you know that skipping a wash can be greasier said than done. that's why it was a holiday miracle when the solution (not one, but three dry shampoos) came into my life. but which one is "the one"? i put them to the test in this fight club for dry shampoos. here are the gory results:

best fragrance: lush no drought dry shampoo ($12.95) smells like a lemony, desserty delight.

bonus points: ok for vegan hair.

caution: it's a powder; you'll get it everywhere.

use for: your trip to burning man.

best clean: oscar blandi pronto volumizing invisible dry shampoo spray ($11-$23) offers great results, sprays on totally clear.

bonus points: 1.4 oz size slips right into your purse.

caution: by far the most expensive, ounce for ounce.

use for: your naughty overnight bag.

best side effects: suave professionals keratin infusion dry shampoo ($3.49) is volumizing and shine enhancing; extends that just-came-from-the-salon look by a day.

bonus points: part of a keratin infusion line that is an alternative to salon keratin treatment.

caution: it's $3.49... is caution really necessary?

use for: refreshing your locks in between work and going out.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received samples of the 1st and 3rd products featured.

how to: fix liquid liner (using q-tips).

2012-01-03T08:17:00.003-05:00

beauties, my blog resolution for 2012 is to create more interactive content. i hope you enjoy my first video of 2012, which focuses on one for my favorite issues, liquid liner. enjoy this video straight from my bathroom headquarters!

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received a sample of qtips and $25 AmEx gift card to get supplies for this post.

announcement!!!!

2011-12-29T11:21:00.004-05:00

beauties, i have something to tell you. on christmas eve, i got engaged to the boyfriend (you probably know him best as the guy who reviews axe products for this site)! the proposal happened on the beach near my parents home in florida. in this picture i'm telling my best friend on the phone, while my dad shoots pics like he's a member of the paparazzi.

this week has been a flurry of celebrating with friends and family, which is why i've been MIA, but i have big plans for mLm in the 2012!

i am especially excited for you, readers, to take this journey with me. i want to try out many, many makeup and hair looks for the big day (and all of the ancillary occasions), and i want your opinions on everything (but don't hurt my feelings).

here's to a wonderful 2012!!!

holiday gift idea: the bath lover.

2011-12-23T08:45:00.000-05:00

if currently panicked while hunting for an foriginal gift with a handmade flair or that special someone on your list who you may have overlooked, hit up the lush store at your local mall - bonus: many of their holiday gifts are already impeccably wrapped.

the one pictured - best wishes - contains three distinct bath enhancers, including the superstar bubble bar, a new addition to the lush line. for anyone who loves a great bath, or just needs to have some at-home spa time this winter break, this gift is a steal at $19.95.

but if this one doesn't tickle your fancy, visit the lush site for more bath-tastic ideas, there are literally dozens of pre-wrapped gifts waiting to be slipped under the tree, or menorah.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received a sample holiday gift from this brand.

holiday gift idea: last minute drugstore run!

2011-12-21T22:22:00.004-05:00

a couple of weeks ago i attended a tweet up where stylist robert verdi unveiled his holiday gift suggestions. this idea is quickly becoming my favorite last minute suggestion: verdi recommended rolling up a magazine and tying a bright covergirl lipstick, such as lip perfection in hot, to it with a ribbon. verdi described it as the perfect gift for your favorite babysitter, but i think it's a great gift for anyone who deserves a little bit of recognition this holiday season.

i love the simplicity - everything needed can be found at your local drugstore, and the total should run you around $10. yet, even though it's simple, it oozes thoughtfulness - who doesn't love the latest issue of their fav mag for holiday travel and a new lip color to try out?

click here to watch a video of all of verdi's holiday suggestions.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com attended a tweet up and received samples of holiday gifts while attending.

holiday gift idea: new mom.

2011-12-16T08:49:00.000-05:00

beauties, i am happy to say that there is a new baby in my family! the boyfriend's sister-in-law gave birth to a new baby girl last friday. welcome to the world, isabel!

if there's a new mother/baby duo on your gift list, the aveeno baby soothing relief gift set tickles my fancy. it's simple packaging is baby! plus, it's filled with all the gentle products that are perfect for a baby, but are so soothing momma ends up loving them, too.

available at mass retailers nationwide.

holiday gift idea: wine lover.

2011-12-13T15:29:00.000-05:00

is the office wino your secret santa giftee? the caudalie once upon a vine gift set is the perfect dry nod to their favorite pastime, plus it will save their winter skin.

caudalie is a french skincare company that uses wine grapes to make high end skincare. this kit contains crushed cabernet scrub, lip conditioner, hand & nail cream, and vine body butter.

$38 at caudalie-usa.com.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received a sample holiday gift from this brand.

review: lodge at woodloch.

2011-12-12T08:50:00.004-05:00

the lodge at woodloch is a destination spa in hawley, pennsylvania. it's approximately 2 hours from NYC and it's the most relaxing place on earth. i have visited the property twice - last january i went with a friend (see us snow-shoeing below) and last weekend i enjoyed woodloch with the boyfriend (was too relaxed to actually take a photo).

the lodge is a beautiful space nestled in the woods, where there is no shortage of things to do:

the classes: every hour there are at least two activities offered on the schedule including yoga, tai chi, hiking, cooking demos, and wine tastings. most classes (except wine tasting) are included in the price of stay.

the spa: is a full service spa with a la carte services offered. i adore the lodge massage, it's a traditional swedish that releases tension. the spa facilities are available to all guests and include private men's and women's steam rooms, saunas and whirl pools, fire place lounges, and the co-ed water garden. the water garden is a heavenly space with a pool, two saunas with hydro-massage waterfalls, and a scenic outdoor hot tub.

the food: is divine. it's gourmet spa food - it tastes good and leaves one feeling good. 3 meals are included in an overnight stay.

the little things i love: everyone walks around in robes and slippers. there is tea and snacks available in the afternoon. the staff is unbelievably nice and accommodating.

visit thelodgeatwoodloch.com for pricing info, which can vary by day of the week and time of the year you are planning to visit. i'm already planning my next stay -- i think i need to visit at twice a year to maintain my zen!

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received a press rate on her most recent stay at the lodge and a gratis spa treatment.

holiday gift idea: mom.

2011-12-08T08:45:00.001-05:00

fact: moms love luxe skincare.

amore pacific, founded 4 decades ago in korea, is a luscious brand filled with silky textures and in elegant packaging. asian botanicals such as green tea, ginseng, and bamboo sap infuse skin with natural active ingredients. the amore pacific rejuvenating essentials set has all the products mom loves - serum, eye gel, moisturizer and an enzyme peel. she will be looking 30 by new year's!

the set in available online at sephora.com for $150 ($188 value). the brand has many more holiday gift options at their adorable their spring street, nyc boutique. i couldn't find any links to them online,but if you are in nyc it's worth visiting their store.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com attended an event to become more familiar with this brand and received samples of some of their products.

review: aveeno eczema therapy moisturizing cream.

2011-12-07T08:38:00.004-05:00

let me start off by saying, i don't have eczema. now that we have that out the way, aveeno eczema therapy moisturizing cream is great for dry skin, eczema or not.

with the weather fluctuating between tropical and frigid (i'm not complaining, nyc, stay as hot as you want) my skin has been getting flaky and itchy. since having itchy skin is categorically gross (no one likes a person who itches themselves), i had to solve this. heavy, fragrance laden lotions are fun, and are good for adding scent, but do little to cure dry skin, so those were not an option. aveeno eczema therapy moisturing cream is quite the opposite - unscented, but great at curing dry skin. filled with active naturals like oat that sooth skin, humectants that retain moisture, and ceramides to create a barrier, this cream is clinically proven to improve skin's condition in 4 weeks. however, mine is noticeably less itchy after one use.

$8.20 at food, drug and mass merchandisers.

editor's note: in accordance with the ftc regulations, please be advised that MakeupLovesMe.com received a sample of this product for possible review.