fortyflirtyfabulous

Beauty.com and Wes Gordon Collaboration

Just in time for summer vacations, Beauty.com, a division of drugstore.com, inc. introduces the exclusive Wes Gordon Triptych Travel Case as a free gift with purchase. The product-filled travel case is available starting July 8^th for customers spending more than $100 at the prestige online beauty retailer. With a chic outer design and zippered compartments for storing cosmetics, the limited edition bag makes for a perfect travel accessory this season. Shoppers can find the case at http://www.Beauty.com/WesGordon.

“This Triptych bag is versatile, sophisticated and clever,” says designer Wes Gordon. “I loved taking an inherently feminine bag and playing with masculine design elements and colors.” The square case, made of faux-suede and faux-leather paneling, opens out to reveal a burgundy polka-dot interior with two storage sections. Once beauty and travel essentials are zipped up inside, the case folds back up into a neat square, perfect for packing in a carry-on bag or suitcase.

Each Triptych Travel Case comes filled with 13 prestige beauty samples spanning skin care, beauty, personal care and fragrance. The bag and its contents have an approximate combined retail value of $130.00.

1. Lacoste Essential Sport

2. bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick – Speak Your Mind

3. Cargo Picture Perfect Lip Primer

4. Miracle Skin Transformer Vanish Instant Imperfection Corrector

5. Le Couvent des Minimes Gardener’s Hand Healer

6. Phyto Secret de Nuit Hydrating Regenerating Night Treatment

7. Jouer Mini Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Peony

8. Go SMILE Teeth Whitening Gel

9. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil

10. Origins Smarty Plants CC SPF 20 Skin Complexion Corrector, Light-Medium

11. Nuxe Masque Crème Fraiche de Beaute Soothing & Rehydrating Mask

12. Bliss grapefruit and aloe body butter

13. Crabtree & Evelyn Nail Polish (assorted shades)

14. An offer for you from the Beauty.com site

While looking to spend $100 to receive the Triptych Travel Case, customers can browse waterproof make-up, summer skin care and more on the new Beauty.com Summer Checklist page. In the Pool-Proof Color category, shoppers will find waterproof concealer from It Cosmetics, waterproof liquid eyeliner from Stila and more. For an oil-free option to soothe sun-exposed skin shoppers will find new gel moisturizers from Koh Gen Do and Bliss. With free shipping over $35, it is also a great time to stock up on SPF from best-selling brands Supergoop!, Colorscience and Peter Thomas Roth.

Shoppers looking to add some new beauty items to their routine will find Skinny Brush Mascara, Skinny Liquid Eyeliner, Brow Gel, Liquid Metal Eyeliner and more from Eyeko. The brand new Bareminerals Bareskin foundation is also available on Beauty.com in 20 different shades along with the new Bareminerals Nudes with Attitude set of lip glosses. Other new-to-store items include Gorgeous Cosmetics lipsticks, Stila’s Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadows and cheek stain from Tarte.

Beauty fans can look to Beauty.com for seasonal make-up, hair and skin care inspiration with the Advice & Trends features. On the Guest Editor pages, industry influencers share their must-have products while Trend Tutorials allow beauty enthusiasts to recreate runway looks at home. Beauty Director-at-Large Romy Soleimani shares seasonal inspiration, her new favorite products and more on the Beauty.com blog Beauty Close Up. Other Beauty.com benefits include 5% back on every purchase, the free sampling center, and a shared online shopping cart with Beauty.com’s partner site, drugstore.com.

I am loving this bag and these great samples, especially the L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil, the Crabtree & Evelyn Nail Polish, and the Le Couvent des Minimes Hand Healer. And the bag is seriously cool!

What great products from Beauty.com will you purchase to get this awesome free gift!

Product Round-Up — My Favorite Beauty Things This Week!

I have been trying so many great beauty items this week. From nail care to skincare to a fab concealer, these summer products have really helped my beauty routine in the heat.

Probelle Touch N' Grow Plus — Probelle Touch N’ Grow and Touch N’ Grow Plus

Probelle is the innovative, restorative base nail polish that uses a two-step system to cure, grow and repair nails to a healthier state. The Touch N’ Grow original formula cures and strengthens nails while the Touch N’ Grow Plus maintains healthy nails. The Touch N’ Grow Plus incorporates garlic and lime which have been proven to prevent nails from discoloration and bacteria growth caused by prolonged nail polish wear. Probelle also acts as a durable base coat to give that manicured look for less.

What I think: I have been using the Touch N’ Grow Plus for a couple of weeks now. It has helped my peeling nails and they look so much better now. Plus it gives a bit of a shine and looks very nice on.

Available at www.probelle.com.

L’Occitane Angelica Hydra Vital Gel ($38 USD) — An ultra-fresh, lightweight formula gives this moisturizing gel the power to keep skin hydrated & revitalized all day long. Its cooling texture gently soothes skin giving it a more radiant complexion, while prepping it for the day ahead.

What I think: This is the perfect hydrator for the summer! I love it especially at night after a day in the sun. And since it is so light, it works well on oily skin (mine definitely gets oilier in the summer). Plus, the scent is fresh and lovely.

usa.loccitane.com

Coast to Coast Skin Illuminating Cleansing Water ($24.99 USD) — This brightening Coast To Coast cleansing water containing Quandong and Sweet Orange, dissolves makeup and impurities from the face and eyes to purify skin cells in preparation for your day or night skincare regime. The no-rinse formula makes it the ideal travel companion for those on the go. Coast To Coast products contain natural, organic ingredients and 100% essential oils. Their products are not tested on animals, contain no artificial colors or fragrances, Parabens, Petrochemicals, Paraffin, Pthalates, Propylene Glycol, Mineral Oil, PABA or DEA.

What I think: I have been using this instead of creamier makeup remover in the evening. Not only does it work very well, it is so light and refreshing. I love that it has natural and organic ingredients.

Available at Ulta and Ulta.com.

Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal ($36 USD) — Covering up blemishes can be quite the production – first a spot treatment and moisturizer, then a primer, followed by a concealer and foundation. No woman wants to layer on the products, especially in the heat. The lightweight, multifunctional concealer, Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal features powerful hydration, treatment and protection benefits that work to evenly smooth skin and minimize the appearance pores, blemishes, pigmentation spots and fine lines. Designed for use on both the under eye and face, Treat & Conceal instantly improves skin tone, luminosity, and texture for a radiant, airbrushed look in seconds. Treat & Conceal is available in four color mineral tinted shades to adapt to virtually all skin tones: light, medium, tan and dark.

What I think: I have this in light and it is perfect for under my eyes, red patches and when I have a blemish. It really covers well and is not dry or overly sticky.

Available online via www.ulta.com and www.nordstrom.com

Fake Bake Golden Faux Glow Shimmer ($20.95 USD) — Now that summer is in full swing its time to add some shimmer to that glow! Our Fake Bake Golden Faux Glow is a washable temporary tan for face and body with no tanning actives and allows you to get your tan without the commitment! It’s the perfect way to spice up a little black dress or revive an outfit on a hot summer night!

What I think: I love this product so much and can’t stress how easy it is to use. The signature guide allows you to see exactly where it’s going & while it washes off easily in the shower, it won’t rub off on your clothes.

Available at www.FakeBake.com and retailers across the country including Ulta and Ricky’s NYC.

What new products are you loving?

Fab Beauty Products For the 4th of July and the Rest of the Summer!

Happy 4th! How are you staying prepared beauty-wise today? Are you wearing blue eyes shadow, red Lipstick, sunscreen, bug spray???

Below are some fab products that were sent to me for my honest review that will be perfect for today and the rest of the summer, as well:

Keep cool and dry with Ban Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths($3.29 USD): The first-ever in the United States on-the-go cooling cloths that leave you feeling completely refreshed, with just one wipe. What truly sets these cloths apart is the proprietary PowderSilk™ technology imported exclusively from Japan. These revolutionary cloths instantly cool on contact and leave skin feeling refreshed in an instant with a translucent, superfine powder so skin stays smooth and comfortable with no sticky residue. These are fabulous and really work!

Available at a drugstore near you.

Don’t forget your sunscreen! L’OCCITANE en Provence Angelica UV Shield SPF 40 ($38 USD) — Made with angelica from the Drôme region of France, the Angelica UV Shield SPF 40 helps protect skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Light and silky smooth in texture, this face fluid helps preserve skin’s vitality. After use, skin is moisturized and revitalized. With continued use, skin looks plumped, smoothed and radiant.

Available at http://www.usa.loccitane.com

Stay bite-free with Avon SKIN SO SOFT Bug Guard Collection($14-$16 USD):Protect your family during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are the most active with this heavy-duty insect repellent. These double-duty formulas shield delicate skin from the sun while repelling insects like mosquitoes and deer ticks. DEET-free and formulated with Vitamin E and soothing Aloe, Bug Guard effectively repels mosquitoes, deer ticks, black flies, sand flies, gnats, and more for eight hours. Available in a Pump Spray, Aerosol Spray, Towelettes, Gentle Breeze Lotion, and a Cool ‘n Fabulous Disappearing Color Lotion. My favorites are the towelettes because they are easy to pack and to use.

Purchase at http://www.avon.com

Yes to Blueberries Cleansing Facial Wipes — Yes to Blueberries Brightening Facial Towelettes

Take your stubborn waterproof makeup off while brightening your skin with Yes to Blueberries Brightening Facial Towelettes ($5.99 for 25 Wipes) — These Cleansing Facial Wipes are formulated with Blueberries and Coconut to gently cleanse, remove makeup, and moisturize skin all in one. With Lemon Peel and Apple to help brighten skin, these are a great addition to our Age Refresh collection. They leave your skin feeling clean, youthful, and glowy! Plus they smell fantastic!

Available at http://www.yestocarrots.com and Target stores.

Store all of your essentials with the Sonia Kashuk Gingham Print Duffle ($24.99 USD) — This Sonia Kashuk Gingham Print cosmetic bag can double as a purse. The bag comes with removable clear plastic pouches to keep everything neat and organized. Also available in other sizes and price points.

Shell Material: Polyester
Liner Material: Polyester
Closure Style: Zip Closure
Dimensions: 8.0 ” H x 11.5 ” W x 5.0 ” D
Care and Cleaning: Wipe Clean With a Damp Cloth

Available at Target stores and http://www.target.com

Sonia Kashuk Velvety Matte Lip Crayon in Poppy Nude

Don’t forget your red lip! Sonia Kashuk Velvety Matte Lip Crayon ($7.59 USD) — The creamy texture of Sonia Kashuk’s Velvety Matte Lip Crayon ensures an easy glide-on application that will not feel dry on the lips and instantly coats with rich, pigmented color. Poppy Nude is a red-orange shade with extra-long wear to keep your smile looking gorgeous. Contains fig aroma.

Available at Target stores and http://www.target.com

I hope you enjoy your 4th!

IT’s All About You! Your 5pc Customer Favorites — IT Cosmetics Today’s Special Value – 1 Day ONLY on QVC!

IT is truly all about YOU! IT Cosmetics® is excited to introduce a collection of 3 QVC® Customer Choice Beauty Award winning products plus two innovative new launches, for the first time ever in this Today’s Special Value^®Saturday, June 21st, 2014. Available for one day only, this limited edition IT Cosmetics set exclusive to QVC is valid from midnight ET June 21^st until 2:59 AM ET June 22^nd for an exceptionally low price ($59.96 or two easy payments of 29.98 and $169 value!), while supplies last.

IT’s All About You! 5pc Customer Favorites Collection includes:

Celebration Foundation® — This full coverage, lightweight anti-aging foundation rich in skin-loving peptides, hydrolyzed collagen, silk and more, helps you obtain a perfect, airbrushed complexion in 30 seconds!

Brow Power® UniversalBrow Pencil — the two-time QVC Customer Choice Award winner for “Best Brow Product”. This universal, long wear eyebrow pencil is infused with cutting edge, brow-enhancing ingredients that coat each hair, while adhering to the skin, making it easy to naturally transform thick or thin brows to create the look of your brows but better™. In a universally flattering shade, Brow Power® Universal Brow Pencil is customized to work with all hair colors to create a bold look for everyone! For lighter hair, apply using lighter, softer strokes and for darker hair, apply pressing hard to deposit more color. As a finishing touch, lightly brush through brows with the spooly brush to create a natural polished look.

Limited Edition Heavenly Luxe™ Dual Ended Complexion Perfection Brush — Use the NEW multifunctional 2-in-1 Heavenly Luxe™ Dual-Ended Complexion Perfection Brush to swirl circles into the foundation and buff onto skin to get flawless silky full coverage that feels like you’re wearing nothing.

CC+™ Radiance Palette (Brand new) — This palette includes three new color correcting innovations! The CC+™ Brightening Finishing Powder, CC+™ Matte Bronzer, and the CC+™ Flush Blush, each anti-aging talc-free powder includes color correcting pigments that enhance and even out the appearance of your natural skin tone, while boosting the warmth and radiance of your skin.

Waterproof Bye Bye Under Eye® Anti-Aging Concealer (Brand new) — now loaded with additional anti-aging skin loving benefits plus clinically proven for all-day 12-hr waterproof coverage. Start by warming up a pin sized amount on the back of your hand, then gently tap the concealer onto the areas that need extra coverage and blend with fingers or use the multitasking Dual Ended Complexion Perfection Brush to ensure flawless application. Infused with anti-aging technology to not only cover, but to make your skin appear younger at the same time, Bye Bye Under Eye® Waterproof stays true to its original Bye Bye Under Eye® Concealer formula, providing crease-free coverage to camouflage under eye discolorations with ease, while hydrating to ensure a beautiful well-rested appearance.

Developed with leading plastic surgeons and infused with skin-loving unique ingredients, IT’s All About You does the work for you with all of the essentials you need to look and feel your most beautiful!

Are you picking up one of these fabulous sets? I was sent one for my honest review. I have tried most of these products and love them — especially Bye Bye Undereye concealer, and now it’s waterproof! You all know I need that in humid Kansas City! The brush is the perfect applicator for that and the powder Celebration Foundation, which is so light for the summer. Brow Power is so easy to define my brows. And the new palette — love it! The shades are so pretty and the brightening finishing powder really corrects the color in my skin.

Available now at QVC and http://www.qvc.com! Enjoy!

Get Your Beauty Routine Ready For Summer, Part 3

Part 3 and the final post of my summer prep spectacular showcases awesome makeup! Looking for a foundation with SPF? Waterproof mascara? Bronzers? Bright lip color? Me too! And I found some great new picks!

In this post, I review cosmetics from Mary Kay, Ramy, FACE Stockholm, LORAC and Osmotics. Maybe you’ll find something that you love, too!

Mary Kay CC Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15

Mary Kay Brush Cleaner

Mary Kay Lash Love Waterproof Mascara

In the summer months, we all want a makeup bag that’s a little lighter product wise. When streamlining makeup bags for the warmer months, it’s okay to keep some of the powder-based products with hues that will transition nicely into the changing seasons – just keep in mind that spring and summer means brighter hues. Have some fun with color, especially when it comes to eye shadows, eyeliners and lip shades!

Mary Kay® CC Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($20 USD) — A perfect multi-tasker with eight skin benefits in just one tube. This product is light enough for summer, yet creates a gorgeous natural finish – plus, it helps protect skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Mary Kay® Lash Love® Waterproof Mascara ($15 USD) — Beat the heat and keep lashes looking gorgeous. For extra lasting power, use an eyelash primer like Mary Kay® Lash Primer. This is a great combo for the pool or beach!

Mary Kay® Brush Cleaner ($10 USD) — While updating colors for each season is important, it’s a “must” to thoroughly clean makeup brushes, especially since skin produces more oil and sweat in the warmer months. And, don’t forget to replace mascara at least four times per year.

Available at http://www.marykay.com

Ramy Face Glosses

Ramy Elixir Skin Conditioning Primer

Ramy Perfect Brow Wand

Ramy Face Glosses ($18.50 USD) — offer an all-over glow that’s designed to be worn on the eyes, cheeks or lips. The waterproof formula contains antioxidants Aloe, Wheat Germ and Vitamins A and D to pamper and protect skin. The sheer washes of color are non-creasing on eyes, ultra-hydrating on lips and super long-wearing on cheeks, plus the portable compact allows for easy on-the-go application and come in 5 perfect shades including Sugar Glow!, Face Candy!, Casual Sex!, On-the-Go Glow!, and Sunlit Glow!

Ramy Elixir Skin Conditioning Primer ($40 USD) — Formulated with cucumber and St. Johns Wort, it cools skin, reducing redness and inflammation, while safflower and apricot kernel firm skin. Plus, this cooling primer leaves skin smoothed, soothed and prepped in one easy-breezy step. ($40)

Ramy Perfect Brow Wand ($28 USD) — This dual-ended, universally flattering brow filler and highlighter boasts a waterproof gel formula for maximum staying power with a natural finish. Be sure to always brush though product for flawless wear.

Ramy products are available at Ramy.com, Amazon.com and LOOK Boutiques nationwide.

Face Stockholm Summer 2014 — Like the dark steel gray of an impending thunderstorm on a hot summer day, our look for summer is stormy and mysterious with a strong emphasis on the vivid Matte Orange lip. From the FACE Stockholm website, here is how to achieve the look:

For a clean and hydrated look for summer, start with FACE Stockholm BB Natural Beauty Balm ($38 USD). This can be applied with clean fingertips or a makeup brush (try FACE Stockholm Foundation Brush #34) for a flawless finish. For a more matte look, lightly dust with FACE Stockholm Loose Powder ($26 USD).

Using FACE Stockholm Chisel Contour Brush #5, apply FACE Stockholm Blush ($20 USD) in Sun-Kissed from the apples of the cheek to the temples.

Create a warm, smoky eye. As a base, apply Krämögonskugga in Chintz ($24 USD) all over the lid. Then, using FACE Stockholm Blender Brush #39, apply Granit Matte Shadow ($20 USD) on top, being sure to blend well. For a more dramatic look, add a sweep of Platina Matte Shadow ($20 USD) on the outer third of lid. Finally, define the lower lash line with Granit Matte Shadow using our Angular Sable Brush #13.

Use FACE Stockholm Sable Fluff Brush #12S to apply Highlighter Destiny ($25 USD) to the inner corner of the eye. Add a little dab on the cheekbones too, or anywhere else you’d like to add a little glow. Apply FACE Stockholm Luxe Lash Mascara ($32 USD) to the top and bottom lashes.

For the lips, use FACE Stockholm Medium Lip Brush #18 to apply Matte Orange Lipstick ($22 USD), with precise and clean lines. For even heavier color saturation, start with Helen Lipliner. For a dewy day look, add a dab of clear Lipgloss #1; or finish with Correct Pencil to add a soft highlight around the lip.

Available at http://www.facestockholm.com

Lorac Back to Bronze Collection ($36 USD) —

Welcome back warmth with LORAC’s Back To Bronze Collection. This perfect Beach-Ready Bag contains everything you need to look bronze and beautiful this season: A double-ended 3D Lustre/Liner in Copper/Black Cherry makes your eyes sparkle and shine; Cobra Mascara, formulated with Keratin, Vitamin E and Panthenol, instantly creates super long, faux-looking lashes; TANtalizer® Baked Bronzer (travel-size) gives you a beautiful bronze glow; Alter Ego Cream Lipstick in Girl Next Door, infused with Acai Berry, Pomegranate, Grape Seed and Vitamin C & E, coats your lips in luscious, rich color and Lip Lustre Gloss in Peach Lustre completes your sun-kissed look with luminous, high-shine. Get Back to Bronze with LORAC!

Back to Bronze Collection contains:

3D Lustre/Liner in Copper/Black Cherry
Cobra Mascara
TANtalizer® Baked Bronzer (Travel-Size)
Alter Ego Cream Lipstick in Girl Next Door
Lip Lustre Gloss in Peach Lustre
Travel Bag

Purchase at http://www.loraccosmetics.com

Osmotics Blue Copper 5 Lip and Tuck ($35 Each) — Lip and Tuck conditioning gloss plumps, restores lip contours and prevents aging to give you healthier, smoother, younger-looking lips. Hydrating hyaluronic acid particles penetrate and swell the lip tissue to add volume and plumpness.

The IT ingredient for the summer, copper, along with two powerful anti-aging peptides, helps to prevent the loss of collagen which keeps your lips and mouth area firm, tight and line-free. Nourishing macadamia nut oil soothes dry, chapped lips. Available in Natural, Cognac, Golden Nectar, and French Kiss.

Available at http://www.osmotics.com

Get Your Beauty Routine Ready For Summer, Part 2

Part two of my summer prep spectacular brings body care and hair care! Time to moisturize that parched skin and hair!

In this post, I review body skin care from NeriumFirm, SeabuckWonders, Teadora, and L’Occitane plus hair care from John Frieda and Phlip B.

NeriumFirm Body Contouring Cream ($98 USD) –NeriumFirm is formulated to reduce the appearance of cellulite and dimpling to help smooth, tighten and firm loose skin and to help restore the appearance of youthful contour, tone and texture – perfect to get beach body ready!

What I think: My body definitely needs firming and contouring so I have been using this for a few weeks now. I have noticed that my skin on my thighs seem smoother and my waist seems a little tighter — nice! I will definitely continue to use this!

Available at www.mynerium.com

Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion ($14.97 USD for 6 fl. oz.) — Intensely moisturizing, Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion rejuvenates and replenishes the skin’s natural balance, softening and nourishing for silky, touchable skin. Its high concentration of sea buckthorn oil allows for superior moisture retention while protecting the skin from signs of aging and the effects of exposure to the sun.

What I think: This is so moisturizing without being greasy at all. It also soothes my dry skin. Our air conditioner wasn’t working for the last couple of days and as I work from home, I was stuck in front of a computer in 85 degrees. Well, my skin dried out, and this made it much softer. After my shower, I smoothed this lotion on and my skin went “aaaah”! Love! The only downside is that is smells kind of like hay. Not very fragrant, but good for my skin!

Available at http://www.seabuckwonders.com.

Teadora Nourishing Body Butter ($45 for 8 oz.) — has a unique blend of Brazilian ingredients protects and helps repair your skin’s moisture barrier—to keep skin smooth and supple 24 hours a day. We use stem cells from the Argan tree—one of the oldest species on earth—to help rejuvenate your skin’s middle layer, where wrinkles start.

Teadora comes in two scents so that everyone can find a product that suits them. Rainforest at Dawn is vibrant & woodsy—yet floral—it awakens your senses and readies you for the day ahead. Rainforest at Dusk is flowery & smooth—with a hint of fruit—it soothes and revitalizes your senses after a long day.

What I think: I have been using this all over at night, especially on my dry elbows and knees, and I have found that in the morning, my skin is so much softer. Both scents are extremely woodsy. I like the Rainforest at Dusk the best. I wouldn’t call it flowery, more herbal and spicy. I don’t care for the Rainforest at Dusk because it smells a bit like soil, very foresty, though.

Available at http://www.teadorabeauty.com.

L’OCCITANE Mer & Mistral Body Milk ($20 USD, 6 fl. oz.) — This energizing gel moisturizes and refreshes the skin, leaving behind the aquatic and aromatic scent of the Mer & Mistral fragrance. Enriched with shea butter, skin is left smooth, supple and perfumed with the aromatic chord of cypress, pine and rosemary.

What I think: This is a very light gel lotion and smells fantastic, really fresh and clean. It is a unisex scent, either for women or men, and I can see why. And it’s light enough for that guy who doesn’t like greasy lotions.

Available at usa.loccitane.com.

Philip B. Katira Hair Masque ($40 for 6 oz)– a versatile rejuvenator is for all hair types. The clear-gel formula sinks right in to plump up fine, limp strands or calm and smooth course, hard-to-manage hair. Think of it as an amped-up, squeaky-clean version of a deep-conditioning treatment. A high-tech L-Amino Acid Complex infuses your hair with a perfect dose of moisture and nourishing proteins for enhanced control and elasticity. Coat clean, wet or dry hair with the masque comb it through from roots to ends evenly. Leave on until dry or overnight. Rinse well after use!

What I think: I think that this is a cool hair mask. You can leave it in as long as you like. Once you rinse it out,

Available at http://www.philipb.com.

John Frieda Styling Tools by Conair Satin Finish Flat Iron ($54.99 USD) — John Frieda Sleek Finish 1 1/2″ Flat Iron offers extra-long straightening plates with advanced ionic conditioning and true ceramic heater. Plus, it has ceramic titanium-coated plates that take only 15-seconds to heat up to 455 degrees Fahrenheit.

What I think: Love this flat iron! It works very well on my wavy hair. Plus it straightens and shines! I think this is an affordable way to really straighten hair and not damage it.

Available at beauty stores such as http://www.ulta.com

Enjoy!

Get Your Beauty Routine Ready For Summer, Part 1

I have been so lucky to receive lots of awesome skincare, hair care and makeup samples lately from so many different, fab brands to review for my honest opinion. So exciting!

The one common thread in these products is that they are a good change-up to my routine. Winter was so long this year, and spring very short that my makeup products haven’t changed much. But now that it is HOT in Kansas City (90 and humid) — I am ready to give easy, breezy summer beauty a go, while still looking and feeling put together.

For the rest of this week, I will review the products that I have been using and let you know why I love them so much. This post will include lovely skin care from Orico London, Stri-Vectin and summer-loving makeup from Gerard Cosmetics, Skindinavia and BeautyADDICTS.

Orico London Transcend Marine Radiance Serum

Orico London’s Transcend Marine Radiance Serum ($61 USD) — Instant flash of brilliance for the skin. New Transcend organic Marine Radiance Serum has been developed with four of the latest clinically proven anti-aging bioactives to help illuminate, tighten, diminish wrinkles and deeply hydrate. This New organic wonder serum packed with pure and powerful natural Marine Algae and Maca Root extracts help to visibly brighten and instantly lift for super rested and glowing results.
Transcend skin with instant radiance.

What I think: I’ve been using this serum for about a week and am really enjoying it. The serum is a pearly-pinkish opal color, very iridescent and cool. I’ve never seen a serum like it. When it is applied, it is very sheer and gives skin a faint radiance. Since it is so light, it is perfect for the summer as it can be easily layered under moisturizer and SPF.

Available at http://www.oricolondon.com

StriVectin SD Advanced Intensive Concentrate ($79 USD for 2oz) — Introducing new SD Advanced Intensive Concentrate for Wrinkles & Stretch Marks. Formulated with Collagex-CE Wrinkle Repair Complex, this hydrating moisturizer harnesses the latest advances in skincare science to target Collagen III, also known as youth collagen, for even more powerful anti-aging results.

A series of scientifically designed studies proves the following effects: • Significantly diminishes the number, length and depth of lines and wrinkles • Targets youth collagen and elastin for healthy, younger looking skin • Hydrates and visibly enhances skin texture • Strengthens the skin barrier to maximize skin performance

SD Advanced goes beyond wrinkles to help transform the look of stretch marks, too.

What I think: I have been using this cream at night-time as a treatment. It has a bit of a minty scent to it and it is a little thick, but not greasy. And boy does it work! I have noticed that my skin is so much smoother and even-toned. And my forehead wrinkles are smoother, too. Yay!

Available at http://www.strivectin.com

Gerard Cosmetics BB Plus+ Illumination Facial Crème ($36 USD) — Golden, radiant and healthy skin has always been a girl’s best summer accessory. Gerard Cosmetics by Whitening Lighting has recently introduced their newest product – the BB Plus+ Illumination Facial Crème. A twist on a traditional BB Cream, the BB Plus+ Illumination is formulated with light reflecting particles and golden shimmer to add dimension and a youthful glow to any complexion. This luminous crème is easy to blend, long lasting and comfortable to wear, even in the warm summer months.

What I think: This is a really pretty cream. I tried it on my cheekbones and my brow bone like a normal highlighter, and I liked it, but it was a bit sparkly for me to use all over my face. My 18 year-old daughter wore it all over hers and looked like a golden beach babe — oh, youth! So I gave it to her and she loves it! And I love that it has skincare benefits!

Available at www.whiteninglightning.com

Skindinavia The Makeup Primer Spray Oil Free ($35 for 4 oz, $49 for 8 oz) — anti-shine, vitamin-based primer mist absorbs excess oil while creating a smooth, lightweight canvas for flawless makeup application. Skindinavia’s breakthrough silicone-free formula is clinically proven to even out skin tone, prevent breakouts and reduce the appearance of large pores.

What I think: I love this! Just a few sprays on my face and it instantly looks even and smooth. And makeup goes on so evenly. And my makeup stays fresh looking for most of the day. I love it in the oil free version for summer, but it also comes in a regular spray.

Available at http://www.skindinavia.com.

BeautyADDICTS MineralSheerTINT SPF 20 ($32 USD) — The perfect “barely there glow” in seven natural shades. A mineral-based, oil-free, ultra-sheer tinted moisturizer with an SPF 20 to protect the skin while appearing flawless and radiant! An outstanding blend of ingredients like Ginseng Root Extract, and Vitamins A, C and E as powerful anti-oxidants. Your skin basks in sheer, gorgeous, safe color!

What I think: This is a perfect makeup base for the summer as it is sheer and has an SPF! And the fact that it has skin loving ingredients is a plus in the heat. And although the tint is sheer, it can be built up for more coverage.

www.beautyaddicts.com

Enjoy!

Father’s Day Gift Giving Guide

I know that this is a bit last minute, but I have great ideas for Father’s Day gifts! It is always so close to my birthday, that I have to take a minute to think of the men in my life and not myself for a minute! LOL!

The gifts below are perfect for any special man. From great food to sexy cologne to skincare products…there is something perfect for that guy!

Give Dad the gift of gourmet goodies! Mantry ($75) is the definitive destination for modern men looking to discover American artisan food and how to cook and entertain with it, Mantry is an engaging food lifestyle resource. With an exacting filter and relevant voice that aims to inform and inspire, Mantry delivers remarkable products, stories and food experiences today’s man can appreciate, enjoy and share.

It arrives in their signature wooden crate and with a colored menu describing all the treats inside. Visit http://www.mantry.com to order.

And…I will be receiving a Mantry to review soon! I will let you know how fabulous it is and I may even share it with my hubby!

emerginC men’s skin care — Upgrade dad’s skin care routine with advanced, cutting-edge products specifically tailored for men.

liquid gel cleanser for men – Formulated with hops, because of its antiseptic properties, and pine, for its refreshing, stimulating essential oil, this lemongrass-scented oil cleanser gently removes excess oil and dirt without over drying.

post-shave reinforcer for men – This lightweight, fresh-scented facial balm is designed to improve moisture balance, tone and texture. Made with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, sweet almond oil and olive oil, the post-shave reinforcer for men is a gentle yet effective treatment.

Now through Father’s Day receive a free liquid gel cleanser ($35 value) with the purchase of a post-shave reinforcer ($47). To redeem, simply type DAD into the customer notes section when checking out.

Available online via www.emerginc.com

Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf ($49.75 for 1.7 fl. oz on sale) — Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf is a striking fragrance with a wealth of addictive notes including chilli and saffron combined with leather, tobacco, vetiver and pink pepper. Encased in a hand grenade shaped bottle this spicy, woody and oriental scent is highly seductive and explosive.

Available at http://www.fragrancenet.com

L’Occitane Cade Eau de Toilette ($55 for 3.4 fl. oz.) — a spicy, woody fragrance that evokes the dry wood, red soil and hot stones found in the sunny Garrigue landscape of southern France. Top notes of bergamot lead to a generous heart of cedar wood and pink pepper. A base of cade wood and citrus linger on the skin throughout the day. Enriched with essential oils of cade wood and pink pepper, this eau de toilette complements all of the products in the Cade collection, emblematic of L’Occitane.

Available at usa.loccitane.com.

Beauty Products For the Warm Summer Ahead!

Hot weather does such weird things to my skin. It has been so humid in Kansas City that when I walk outside, I sweat (gross, I know) and it makes my skin oily. But exposure to the sun, even with SPF, can also leave my skin dry. So my skin needs a lot of tlc in the summer!

I was sent the following products for my hones review, and I’m glad I was because I really need them!

Eraclea Intensive Repair and Protect Serum/Vitamin C

Eraclea Daily Bamboo Exfoliant

Eraclea Pure Hydration Serum/Zinc

Eraclea products contain a new, proprietary ingredient, scientifically designed to maintain the hydration that helps retain the youthful appearance of the skin. This efficacious ingredient is the result of a half-century of research. Its earlier forms were successfully used in medical and cosmetic applications. A carefully crafted combination of hyaluronic acid sponges and hyaluronic acids of various molecular weights, called the HylaSponge®System, is the key to the Eraclea hydrating properties. Each Eraclea product features the HylaSponge®System in combination with select antioxidants, vitamins, peptides and botanicals, all chosen for their functionality within the formulations.

Pure Hydration Serum/Zinc ($80) — Perfect for stressed, irritated skin, this moisture-intensive serum draws on the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of zinc to promote healing while reducing redness. The serum delivers pure hydration to rejuvenate and replenish the skin. For optimal results, use after Intensive Repair and Protect Serum/Vitamin C.
Daily Bamboo Exfoliant ($40) This daily exfoliating micro-scrub removes impurities, oil, makeup and dead skin cells leaving the skin clean and fresh with a more youthful glow. It helps increase skin cell turnover rate and resurfaces the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, pores, age spots, discolorations and acne scars.
Intensive Repair and Protect Serum/Vitamin C ($75) — After a long day in the sun, it’s important to remember that skin needs replenishing. It works to protect against cell damage, accelerate cell renewal and improve texture.

What I think: Loving this line! The exfoliating cleanser works really well on my sensitive skin. It doesn’t irritate it at all, but it does remove dry, dead skin. Both serums are really making my skin look younger: Pure Hydration Serum/Zinc calms my red skin down in the morning and I use the Intensive Repair and Protect Serum/Vitamin C at night to repair my skin — it glows in the morning!

Available at http://www.eracleaskincare.com

Burt’s Bees Brightening Daily Facial Cleanser

Burt’s Bees Brightening Eye Treatment

A natural breakthrough in skin brightening that boasts dramatic clinical results after just four weeks. Burt’s Bees Brightening regimen is a daily arsenal of five formulas dermatologist-tested and clinically-proven to visibly brighten skin, diminish the appearance of dark spots and discoloration and even skin tone, while improving skin hydration and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The items in the collection are:

· Burt’s Bees® Brightening Daily Facial Cleanser (6oz. $9.99)

· Burt’s Bees® Brightening Refining Tonic (6 oz. $9.99)

· Burt’s Bees® Brightening Dark Spot Corrector (1 oz. $19.99)

· Burt’s Bees® Brightening Eye Treatment (.5oz $19.99)

· Burt’s Bees® Brightening Even-Tone Moisturizing Cream (6 oz. $19.99)

What I think: I have been testing the cleanser and eye treatment. The cleanser is gentle, but effectively removes my makeup in the evening and leaves my skin clean, but not dry. I also love the citrus scent. The eye treatment does seem to brighten up the dark circles. I will use a little longer and let you know if I see a noticeable difference in a month or so!

Where to buy: At leading drug, grocery and mass retailers or at www.burtsbees.com.

Korres Pomegranate Balancing Cream-Gel Moisturizer ($32 USD) — This pore-minimizing and mattifying moisturizer delivers immediate and lasting hydration while simultaneously balancing oily to combination complexions. The unique lightweight cream-gel texture is formulated with a blend of 15% pomegranate water, pomegranate extract, alpine willowherb, and contains tannins and polyphenols. These ingredients help reduce the appearance of pores and rejuvenate the look of skin while providing a matte finish. Hyaluronic and salicylic acids combine to offer an immediate moisture boost while conditioning skin for an overall smooth appearance.

What I think: Light moisturizers are so perfect in the summer! I love that this is a natural product. I like to use it at night over serum, but I also apply it sometimes in the morning with an SPF over it. I love the fresh scent and how it instantly absorbs into my skin.

Korres Natural Products may be purchased at Sephora.com

What skincare are you using as summer approaches?

Bath and Body Products To Keep You Fresh This Summer!

Did you have a great Memorial Day weekend? I did! Even though it rained a lot, I got to enjoy some sun. So I’ve decided to review some of the summer products that I have been loving.

Below are reviews of sunscreen, moisturizers and a natural deodorant. These products are perfect for this time of year.

I hope you enjoy these reviews and maybe find a great summer product you’ll love!

L’Occitane Jenipapo Body Jelly Milk ($30 USD) — With a light jelly cream texture and SPF 20, this protective body milk enriched with vegetal ingredients helps prevent sunburns while moisturizing the skin with a non-greasy protective film. Containing a jenipapo extract from the Cerrado region of Brazil, this body jelly milk leaves skin delicately fragranced with a green, fruity floral scent.

What I think: This is such a great, fragranced lotion that is so light for every day use. I love to put this on in the morning knowing that I have sun protection and great moisturization in one step. And it smells fantastic!

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com.

Korres Body Butter in White Grape ($29 USD) — This soothing body cream will transport you and your sense to the Greek island of Santorini. Smoothing and moisturizing body cream, ideal for dry elbows, heels and knees. Shea butter and Quince extract have softening, moisturizing and restructuring properties. Sunflower, Almond and Avocado oils nourishes the skin, thus restoring its elasticity and smoothness. The body butter offers a distinct, naturally sweet aroma, influenced by the volcanic soil and the sea air. Also, the scent has notes of green apple, floral, citrus and peach for the ultimate Greek Summer sensorial experience!

What I think: This is a perfect after-sun lotion. It is thick, but not greasy at all. Plus it really soothes skin after being out in the sun. It has a rich, fresh scent. Love!

Where to Purchase: HSN.com

Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Body Butter in Fresh Vanilla Lemon ($19 USD) — Fresh Vanilla Lemon: The Bright and Clean Scent. A refreshing blend of juicy lemon, watery fruits and pure vanilla softly scents skin. Instant Hydration. This super soft, all-natural body butter absorbs instantly for deeply hydrated, luxuriously soft skin. 100% pure Shea & Cocoa Butters blend with powerful antioxidants and essential oils for long-lasting hydration. With super soft scents and a non-greasy formula, prepare for the ultimate indulgence.

What I think: I love the scent of lemon, and this is so good! It has the bright lemon scent with warm vanilla notes. And it is really moisturizing. I love to keep this one at work, because the fresh scent doesn’t offend anyone.

Purchase at www.lavanila.com

Schmidt’s Deodorant ($9 USD) –By eliminating underarm odor and wetness without the use of harmful chemicals, Schmidt’s offers a no-guilt alternative to conventional brands. Free of aluminum, propylene glycol, parabens & phthalates.

What I think: I like this deodorant, it works so much better for me than I thought it might. I usually need the heavy-duty clinical strength deodorant. This keeps me dry, which is amazing, but my natural odor does start to mingle with the deodorant after a few hours. Which isn’t bad, but I don’t like to smell at all. I can see using this on the weekends when I want to take a break from the clinical deodorant.

Available at http://www.schmidtsdeodorant.com

Enjoy the start of summer!