fortyflirtyfabulous

Prep and Moisturize For Soft Skin This Fall and Winter

I am already getting dry patches on my skin and it’s only the first of November! Sigh…it is time to really take care of my skin.

I was sent the products below for my honest review. They are:

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub ($4.99 USD) — Discover the swiss secrets for smooth, radiant skin. St. Ives fresh skin invigorating apricot scrub captures these secrets in its deep cleansing formula with 100% natural exfoliates that gently remove dull, dead skin cells to instantly reveal smooth, radiant skin.

What I think: I’ve always loved St. Ives. I’m not surprised that I am enjoying this scrub. The scent so good! Fresh and fruity. And the scrub leaves my face so soft. I exfoliate 2 or 3 times a week and this is gentle enough for my routine.

Avaialble at mass market retailers near you.

Orico London Streetwise Hydrating Make-Up Remover Face and Eyes ($25 USD) — Gently remove all traces of make-up, the days build up of dirt, impurities and pollutants with new Streetwise Hydrating Make-Up Remover for Face and Eyes. With this organic make-up remover, skin is left soothed, conditioned and revitalized with all-natural plant oils and rejuvenated with tangerine and orange oils that de-congest and increase circulation.

What I think: Loving this! This is now my go-to eye makeup remover. It is gentle on my eyes, but takes off all traces of stubborn eye liner and mascara. I have been using it every night.

Available at www.oricolondon.com

Sente Dermal Repair Cream ($169.95 (1.7 oz) or $79.95 (.5 oz)) —

Sente uses a patented blend of ingredients including Heparan Sulfate (HS), a naturally occurring complex of a sugar plus a protein (glycoprotein). This fresh and advanced scientific approach to beauty delivers benefits unlike any cream on the market:

Heals skin faster following common dermatological procedures including IPL, lasers, chemical peels, skin tightening and injectables
Diminishes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles. Enjoy smoother and younger looking skin
Hypoallergenic formulation penetrates quickly, leaving no greasy residue or fragrance – perfect under makeup
Restores and enhances skin’s intrinsic ability to heal itself (sunburns, scarring)
Soothes redness and irritation
Normalizes skin tone and restore radiance
Delivers profound hydration with daily use
Safe for use on even the most sensitive skin types

What I think: This is medical grade skincare that is gentle on the skin. My skin gets more sensitive as I grow older, so gentle skincare is a must. I have only been using it for a few days, but I can see the redness fading and my skin is very soft with use. I will keep using for younger-looking skin!

http://www.sentelabs.com

Mama Mio Love Your Life Lines ($48 USD) — This age-defying, light–reflecting cream works to smooth out and diminish existing lines and wrinkles, helping with deep level repair whilst protecting against new lines forming.

What I think: This is very light and is a great day cream. I haven’t seen evidence of my wrinkles diminishing yet (after a few weeks use in the morning), but it makes my skin bright and soft.

Mama Mio Love Your Life Lines can be purchased at www.mamamio.com.

Maijan Moroccan Argan Oil with Grapeseed & Essential Oils

Maijan Moroccan Argan Oil with Grapeseed and Essential Oils ($49.95, sale price $25 USD) — Maijan Pure Moroccan Argan Oil infused with Grapeseed Oil and Essential Oils is the perfect solution for healthy hair and skin. This miracle golden Organic Argan Oil helps soothe and soften both dry and frizzy hair and trouble skin. Maijan’s secret blend of the Organic Argan Oil infused with Grapeseed and essential oils gives your hair and skin a sense of pure luxury like none other.

What I think: I love argan oil for my skin and my hair. Its a product that you can safely use all over for instant hydration. It also smells great! It’s a perfect, natural product.

Learn more at www.maijan.com.

Yes to Grapefruit Naturally Smooth Lip Balm ($2.99 USD) — This lip gloss has a mix of moisturizing Aloe, Cocoa, and Shea Butter deliver intense hydration and moisturization This flavor is a delicious grapefruit treat to wake you and your gorgeous lips up. Consumers preferred this sleek, oval shape, because it fits easily everywhere, and applies nicely around lips.

What I think: I really love how soft this is on my lips. It keeps them moisturized and smelling great, although I can’t detect a taste. It also comes in Blueberry and Pomegranate SPF 15.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Have you tried any of these products? What skin care are you using now? Leave me a comment, I would love to know!

Get Gorgeous Hair This Fall!

It can be difficult to keep hair soft and shiny during the colder months. It is important to use the right products to manage dry hair and keep it looking great!

I was sent the following products to review with my honest opinion. Try one or two to help your hair this fall:

Good Earth Beauty Pumpkin Chai Restorative Shampoo

Shampoo Pumpkin Chai Restorative ($15 USD 8 oz) — A Good Earth Beauty Exclusive! A moisturizing, restorative shampoo scented like pumpkin with a hint of spice. Warm, cozy and delightful. A perfect marriage of fresh pumpkin with creamy, milky chai.

What I think: This smells delicious! My daughters and I are really enjoying the scent of this and the matching conditioner. Not only does it smell amazing (and the hair keeps the scent all day), it leaves my hair clean and soft!

Available at www.goodearthbeauty.com.

Zotos AGEbeautiful Anti-Aging Demi Permanent Liqui-Creme Haircolor Clear ($5.99 USD) –a colorless demi-permanent shine glaze that adds a brilliant glossiness, amplifies smoothness, and improves hair’s manageability.

What I think: This is a great product to add shine back into the hair! It’s easy to use and leaves hair soft and shiny without changing the color.

Available at www.sallybeauty.com

Maijan Moroccan Argan Oil Leave-In Hair Serum ($49.95 on sale for $25 USD, 3.4 fl oz) — Maijan Moroccan Argan Oil Leave-In Hair Serum with Grapeseed Oil and Essential Oils is a leave-in hair serum which naturally infuses you hair with Omega-6, antioxidants, and Vitamin E. Your hair instantly absorbs the serum resulting in incredible shine, softness, bounce, and UV protection. This amazing serum instantly eliminates frizz! That is amazing.

What I think: This is a great everyday serum. I put it in my hair washing while it is still damp and it helps keep away the frizzies and leaves my hair soft and shiny. It is a light, non-greasy oil. And it has a fresh, herbal scent.

Learn more at www.maijanbeauty.com

Cricket Amped Up Tease Brush Fushia ($4.29, $2.69 on sale now) — A Cricket Amped Up Tease Brush works great to increase volume on all hair types. Great for updo styling and increasing volume on all hair types.

Boar. Nylon mixed multi-level bristles enable you to create various degrees of volume and style easily. A unique bristle pattern and texture minimizes damage, breakage, frizz and split ends. Hair is left smooth and shiny.

An ergonomic handle provides maximum comfort as well as being heat and chemical resistant. Specially designed sectioning tip allows for separation and texture variation.

What I think: I don’t usually tease my hair, but I really like this brush. It teases well, or you can use it as a detangler. Very affordable!

Available at http://www.sallybeauty.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-SA-Site/default/Search-Show?q=Amped+up

Mixed Chicks Spring Bands ($3 USD) — Mixed Chicks introduces their very own tangle-free spring bands that are perfect for all types of hair; never pulling out any strands and leaving hair kink/tangle-free. No more worrying about damaging your locks with extra tight constraints. Go from updos to loose, flowy locks without dents or lumps using these new spring bands! Whether you have straight, natural, or super curly tresses, the hair ties will slip out effortlessly without damaging or breaking your hair. Easy to put in or take out, these spring bands are great for gym workouts, quick errands or evening outings. Color coordinate your favorite look with any one of the spring bands and be a trendsetter with this stylish new hair product.

What I think: These work very well in all types of hair. I have wavy hair, but I know that they will work well in curly hair, too. They are available in Clear Light Yellow, Clear Light Pink, Clear Aqua Blue, Clear Amber, and Clear Black.

Available on www.mixedchicks.net.

Enjoy!

Bath Time, Part 2

Yes, more awesome bath (or shower, if you like those) products!

Set the mood with some great colored lights, then try a new body wash, scrub, lotion or fragrance. I believe that relaxing with fabulous products and scents is rejuvenating!

Lets start by setting the mood with lighting. Mood-lites ($2.98 to $6.99 at Lowe’s Home Improvement stores nationwide) come in various colors to help with moods.

“Mood-lites represent Mood-Factory’s first line of products which are based on the sense of sight, and specifically, in regards to how colors affect how we feel,” said the Chicago-based Kathryn Goetzke, President, Mood-Factory. “We initially launched an incandescent line in 2004, and in 2012 launched a 2nd generation including flood, porch, and compact fluorescent (CFL) Mood-lites. The colors were developed using a number of color expert research, and applying their general concepts to lighting.”

What I think: I have been trying the red Passion and green Renewal Mood-Lites, please let us know and we can ship them out. The renewal is perfect for a bath! Other uplifting hues you might want in the Mood-lites line include: Happiness (yellow); Energy (Orange); Serenity (Light Blue); Sassy (Pink); Creativity (Purple) and Tranquility (Deep Blue).

A body scrub is so important for keeping skin soft at bath time. Tree Hut Almond and Honey Shea Sugar Body Scrub ($17.94 for 18 oz at www.amazon.com) — Experience an intense exfoliation with Tree Hut Sugar Scrub with the rich, sweet scent of Almond and Honey. Natural sweet Almond oil and real Honey condition damaged and neglected skin that has become unhealthy over time.

This gentle sugar scrub is infused with certified organic Shea butter, real Honey and an array of natural oils, including Evening Primrose, sweet Almond, Avocado, Macadamia Seed and Orange Oil. The real sugar grains and Almond bits will softly buff away dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth all day.

What I think: This smells FANTASTIC — seriously! Yummy! I love that it exfoliates and moisturizes at the same time. This is a really gorgeous product.

Savannah Bee Honey Body Wash ($10 for 8oz) Bathe your skin with an everyday golden elixir! Honey is a nourishing, gentle cleanser that naturally exfoliates your skin. Savannah Bee Honey Body Wash is the perfect addition to your skin care ritual.

Savannah Bee Honey Body Wash is available in three fabulous scents, Wild Blackberry, Lemongrass Spearmint, and Tupelo Honey. All three of these amazing body washes contain royal jelly, propolis, and honey to soften, nourish, and repair your skin.

The honey based body washes are very gentle and perfect for the entire family! Savannah Bee Honey Body Washes are formulated from 100% all natural ingredients, contain no parabens or petroleum, and are never tested on animals.

What I think: This is a new company that I have recently discovered and I am loving the products, as well as the very pretty packaging.

The body washes are thick (like honey) and soften the skin while cleansing. Plus, they leave a soft scent on the skin.

Available at www.savannahbee.com

Thymes Fig Leaf and Cassis Body Lotion ($33 USD) — A daily moisturizer sparkling with the sun-ripened fragrance of Fig Leaf & Cassis. Verdant fig leaf entwines with sweet cassis, reviving mandarin oil, juniper berry and purifying cypress. Formulated with skin-supportive shea butter, nourishing squalane, humectant glycerin and protective vitamin E.

Fragrance Notes: Fig leaf, cassis, mandarin, juniper berry and cypress.

What I think: This classic Thymes scent is fresh and light. The lotion is great for after a bath, it keeps skin very soft.

Available http://www.thymes.com

You can finish your bath by using an allover SPF like COOLA’s Classic Body SPF 30 Plumeria Moisturizer ($32 USD) — Nourish and shield your skin from the sun and environment with this antioxidant-infused, SPF 30 sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Free radical fighting organic Rose Hip delivers essential Fatty Acids, Minerals and Vitamin C. Organic Evening Primrose and Linseed Oils, rich in Omegas-3 and 6 calms, tones, hydrates and reduces redness. Patented Oleosome Technology, derived from eco-certified organic Safflower and rich in moisturizing Vitamin E, enhances sun protection and helps time-release actives, resulting in 75% less actives! Organic Shea Butter, high in Vitamins A and F smoothes, softens and balances skin. The phyto-protector Plankton Extract stimulates, organic Cucumber Extract calms and a light Plumeria scent keeps you fresh. Crafted with 70% Certified Organic inactive ingredients.

What I think: If you love a tropical floral scent, this sunscreen/moisturizer is for you. It isn’t too strong, though. SPF is so important all year round.

www.coolasuncare.com

Cologne is the perfect final step to keep feeling and smelling fresh after a bath or shower. L’Occitane Lavender Eau De Cologne ($52 for 10.1 fl. oz) — Brightened by the radiant freshness of citrus fruits, the Lavender Eau de Cologne has a light, breezy scent, underlined by a woody, musky base with a captivating trail.

This vibrant Cologne is a celebration of summer that captures the sunshine and brightness of Haute-Provence.

Top Notes: Lavender P.D.O., Bergamot, Peach
Middle Notes: Freesia, Marigold
Base Notes: Benzoin, Musk

What I think: I love this lavender fragrance. It is so light and does not have a soapy scent that some lavender scents do. It is very fresh and soft.

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com

Or if you like a sweeter scent, try the Healthy Fragrance Vanilla Blackberry ($58 for 1.7 fl oz) — Seductively Sweet. Seduce the sense with this provocative blend of ripe blackberry, juicy raspberry, velvet iris, and warm Madagascar vanilla. Crafted by master natural perfumers, this sexy fragrance is mouthwatering and irresistible.

What I think: This scent is addictive, it is sweet, but not too sweet and is also a bit sexy. Very nice!

Available at www.lavanila.com

Enjoy!

Fun Last Minute Halloween Costume Idea — Dress as Flo!

For the last few years, Flo, the perky Progressive Insurance clerk has been one of the most popular homemade Halloween costumes. This year, fans can replicate America’s favorite commercial character with her Official Progressive Flo Costume on Progressive.com for $39.99, which includes:

– Flo’s white embroidered Progressive apron

– I ♥ Insurance button

– Official “Flo” tricked-out name tag

– Flo style wig

– Satin blue headband

– Progressive Insurance “prop” box

You can also make a DIY costume by checking out the website at http://www.progressive.com/dresslikeflo/.

Here are some accessories that you can use to achieve the look:

· Perky wig or hairstyle

· Navy headband

· MAC Lady Bug lipstick

· White polo shirt

· I ♥ Insurance button

· Tricked-out name tag

· Watch with thin brown band

· White apron with Progressive logo

· White pants

· Navy Chuck Taylor All Star shoes

To help wannabe Flos emulate that perfect hair, makeup, and spunky style, check out this video by celebrity make-up artist and YouTube superstar, Kandee Johnson. If you’d like to take your Flo to the next level, celeb makeup artist Promise Phan has provided a video tutorial on creating a Zombie, Unicorn, and Alien Flo.

I received a sample of the costume for my honest opinion, and it’s really cute! The wig is a little crazy, so I would use my own hair, it’s a lot like Flo’s. But the headband, apron and pins are very fun! Great costume idea!

Enjoy and Happy Halloween!

Beauty.com and Jane Mayle Makeup Bag Collaboration

Beauty.com Debuts The Ava Bag in Tigermilk Print as Gift with Purchase This Holiday Season. Complimentary with Beauty.com purchases of $100 or more, the designer bag is available only while supplies last.

The ultra-feminine Ava Bag makes for the perfect gift this season. Three zippered compartments allow for easy storage of your favorite beauty products while one plasticized section is great for holding liquids or other delicate items. A row of tool holders will keep brushes and applicators in great condition making this a stylish and practical gift for beauty fans.

“I wanted to make a cosmetics case that had a feeling of 40s and 50s glamour about it, something that could have been glimpsed in the dressing room of a screen siren from Hollywood or Italian film,” says designer Jane Mayle. “It’s important, especially around the holidays, that the bag speaks to the fun of dressing up, to red lips and gorgeous nails – the height of femininity. I put the signature Tigermilk print on a fabric that would give the bag a certain plushness and topped it off with the black grosgrain handles and ties – this case is ready for action!”

Each Ava Bag comes filled with 12 prestige beauty samples in both deluxe sample and full sizes. The bag and its contents have an approximate combined retail value of more than $130.

1. BY TERRY® Fluid Foundation

2. NUXE® Huile Prodigieuse®

3. Origins® GinZing® Refreshing Eye Cream

4. h2o+™ Aquafirm®+ Micro-Collagen Moisturizer

5. bareMinerals® Marvelous Moxie® Lip Gloss in Rebel

6. ARCONA® Magic White Ice®

7. POPBeauty® Pop Crayon

8. Deborah Lippmann® Ecofile

9. Boots Cleanser

10. Boots Night Lotion

11. IT Cosmetics® Bye Bye Under Eye®

12. Nick Chavez® Conditioner

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

About Beauty.com® – The World of Beauty Online® Beauty.com, Inc., a division of drugstore.com, inc. is a leading online destination for prestige beauty products. The web store provides a highly personalized shopping experience and offers more than 350 brands from widely recognized to niche, hard-to-find products.

About Jane Mayle — Born in London, England, Jane Mayle moved to the United States as a child. Upon graduating from Columbia University with a degree in Literature, Jane co-founded the store and label Phare in the Spring of 1998. In the Fall of 1999, Jane ventured out on her own to start Mayle. The whimsy, irreverence and romantic femininity of the collection found fans among women who appreciated individualistic style and over the years, the clothing line evolved to include collections of much coveted handbags, belts and shoes and was sold in over 60 specialty boutiques around the world. Jane’s “magpie aesthetic”, a synthesis of ideas old and new, foreign and familiar, garnered her critical attention as well. In 2005, Mayle was named a finalist for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award. Jane shuttered the Mayle store and brand in 2009 in order to explore opportunities in the wider world of design beyond fashion and now works as a free-lance consultant. A collection of Mayle accessories can be found seasonally at Club Monaco stores nationwide.

Enjoy!

Get Your Nails Halloween Ready With China Glaze Monsters Ball!

This October, you’re invited to celebrate with the ghosts and ghouls at the darkly decadent Monsters Ball, hosted by China Glaze®. Attended by spooky sparkles and tantalizing textures, you’re sure to have a hauntingly good time with this limited edition six-piece collection shrouded in mystery and dripping with lavish color.

Dance the night away in six colors and finishes perfect for All Hallows Eve (from left to right in photo, starting with top row):

• Fang-Tastic: Mysteriously mixed up green, blue and magenta glitter

• Bump In The Night: Hair-raising black texture

• Ghoulish Glow: Glow-in-the-Dark top coat

• Boo-Gie Down: Multi-sized orange, black and white glitter

• Howl You Doin’: Shadowy purple glitter

• Bat My Eyes: Ominous gold glitter

Ideal for creating holiday manicures that are a true work of art, the China Glaze® Monsters Ball display features artwork by renowned artist Abigail Larson, best known for her illustrations inspired by the various things that go bump in the night.

China Glaze® Monsters Ball is available in October 2013 at fine salons and beauty supply stores.

China Glaze® is free of DBP, toluene, and added formaldehyde.

China Glaze® nail lacquers are available through salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide. For more information, please visit www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze on Facebook (@ChinaGlaze), Twitter (@ChinaGlazeOfficial), Instagram (@ChinaGlazeOfficial), Pinterest (pinterest.com/chinaglaze) and YouTube (youtube.com/chinaglazeofficial).

Help Your Skin Glow This Fall With Products by Hada Labo Tokyo, Taut, Amarte and Intraceuticals

When the weather gets colder, it is so important to really take care of the skin before it becomes dry and dull.

There aer so many different types of products that you can use to help the skin glow. I have been sent the products below to review for my honest opinion. These products run the gamut from cleansers, moisturizers, eye gels, masks and even a collagen drink.

Use one or combine them for perfect, glowing skin!

Intraceuticals Opulence Brightening Cleanser ($49 1.69 fl. oz. USD) A gently foaming cleanser to thoroughly cleanse, lift away impurities and leave skin soft, clean and bright.

What I think: This cleanser is very gentle on the skin. Lots of cleansers leave my sensitive skin red, but this does not. It also doesn’t dry my skin out after use.

Purchase at www.intraceuticals.com/us/products

Amarte Wonder Cream ($79 2.7 fl. oz) — A refined skin treatment used to restore and nourish precious, delicate skin. Retinol and nutrient-rich, the advanced Korean formula therapeutically and gently diminishes freckles and sunspots, reduces lines and wrinkles and lovingly exfoliates for a supple, translucent complexion. Formulated with unique ingredients like caviar extract, pearl powder, and mushroom emollient, Wonder Cream revitalizes the skin with minerals and protects against external factors such as UV rays, irritation, and environmental toxins.

What I think: I like to use this moisturizer at night after a serum. It is a great overnight treatment. It can also be used in the day time before SPF. This is very gentle on the skin and really makes skin look bright.

Available at www.amarteskincare.com

Hada Lado Tokyo Protecting Day Lotion SPF 18 — Hada Labo Tokyo Protecting Day Lotion SPF 18

Hada Labo Tokyo Protecting Day Lotion SPF 18 ($17.99 USD 1.7 fl. oz) —
Combines broad spectrum sunscreen with Super Hyaluronic Acid™ to replenish moisture and protect skin against the harmful effects of sun exposure. Helps strengthen skin’s resistance to signs of premature aging. Gentle formula leaves skin feeling comfortable, smooth and protected.

What I think: This is an excellent day moisturizer. It has sunscreen built in, eliminating a step in your skin care routine. Asian skincare is hot right now, and this one is very affordable!

Learn more at and purchase at www.ulta.com

Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Contour Eye Gel ($125 USD) An ultra concentrated gel hydrator with double the concentration of hyaluronic acid, specifically formulated for the delicate eye area. Ultimate hydration and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles.

What I think: I usually use eye creams, so this gel is a nice change of pace. It instantly cools and hydrates my eye area. After use for a few days, I noticed that the skin under my eyes looked smoother and a lot less puffy. I am hoping with use over time, it will help with my dark circles.

Available at www.intraceuticals.com/us/products

Taut Collagen Mask ($50 for 5 masks) — LAC Taut Collagen Mask is a luxurious, high-intensity facial mask that helps revitalize skin. Achieving a smooth, moist and radiant complexion has never been easier.

Manufactured in Japan, this mask is specifically formulated to target sagging, dehydrated and dull-looking skin. With a unique blend of hydrolyzed collagen, squalene, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, this intensive mask penetrates deeply into the skin to tone, hydrate and brighten the complexion.

What I think: This is a very hydrating mask. I put it on a day that I wasn’t wearing makeup and it left my skin soft, but a little sticky at first. It took about an hour for the serum on the mask to really sink in. I suggest use at night.

Available for purchase at www.renewalliance.com/store.

Taut Premium Collagen Replenishment Formula ($110 for 8 bottles) –Unique and powerful liquid collagen beauty formula from Japan to improve skin elasticity, firmness and hydration. Each 1.7 fl oz contains the highest concentration – 13 grams – RDS* (Rapid Delivery System) premium Type(I) hydrolyzed marine collagen infused with anti-aging ingredients to restore your skin’s natural radiance and help reduce the signs of aging.

What I think: I have recently taken my first bottle of this. I took it at night and have been directed to take one a night for 8 nights. The taste is a pleasant orange flavor. If I do see results from this in a few weeks, I will report back. This is also supposed to help with health and growth of hair and nails!

Available for purchase at www.renewalliance.com/store.

Enjoy!

Bath Time! Fab Products by Laura Mercier, Nyakio, H2O+, 800razors.com, Sure Deodorant and Jergens

I am definitely a bath person. I know that showers are faster, but I love long, hot bath. It totally relaxes me. Are you a bath or shower person? Leave a comment and let me know, and know what your favorite bath or shower products are!

Here are some of my current favorites, sent to me for my honest review:

Laura Mercier Honey Bath ($40 USD) — This decadent, foaming honey moisture body bath leaves skin feeling clean, fresh and supple. Available in five delectable fragrances: Almond Coconut Milk, Crème Brûlée, Ambre Vanillé, Crème de Pistache and Fresh Fig.

What I think: I have this in Fresh Fig. It smells fantastic and gives lots of foamy bubbles. And the jar is so cute! This is well worth the splurge. I want to try all of the scents.

Available: www.lauramercier.com

Nyakio Kenyan Coffee Body Scrub ($55 USD) — This scrub blends naturally energizing and exfoliating Kenyan Coffee with Sugar to remove dull skin while providing antioxidant benefits. With Mongongo Nut Oil, Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, Grape Seed Oil and Avocado Oil, this unique fusion leaves all skin moisturized, smooth and soft.

What I think: This is a wonderful scrub! I used it on the back of one hand and had to do the other right away to make them even — the first one was visibly smoother! And the scent is vaguely coffee-ish, but it’s not too strong.

Purcashe at HSN, HSN.com and www.nyakio.com

H2O Plus Spa Sea Lotus Body Wash ($17 USD) — This exhilarating body wash renews the skin and deeply nourishes with essential vitamins and minerals. Sea sourced water lotus and bamboo extract provide long-term moisture and stimulate the regeneration of healthy skin while mineral-rich brown and red algae blend are combined with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and nourish the skin. Skin is left lightly scented with the refreshing aquatic floral scent. Try it in a morning shower for an invigorating awakening.

What I think: I love H2O+’s scents — and this new sea lotus fragrance is no exception. It is a great spa scent, with a little bit of floral scent added. It also comes in a body scrub ($20 SUD) and a lotion ($21 USD) so you can layer the scent.

Price: $17, Available at Ulta, Ulta.com and H2OPlus.com

We gals take our beauty routines very seriously. Let’s face it, there is always a new product, trend, or regimen we “need” to try. It’s time to simplify our a.m. routines and make them as painless as possible. First step: take the “ouch” out of hair removal. One thing we can all agree on- waxing is one form hair removal that is painful in more ways then one!

To help take the sting out of hair removal, I’d like to introduce you to 800razors.com, the burn-free razor company, as they share Five Expressive Reasons Why Not to Wax:

1) Yikes! — Waxing at a salon is ridiculously expensive, costing anywhere from $45 – $100 per leg. Not to mention that doesn’t even cover the bikini area, armpits and other body parts we don’t want to share with our hair!! Oh, and home waxing kits? We won’t even go there!

2) Ouch! — Waxing hurts like heck! Having scorching hot wax dripped on your skin to later be yanked out by the roots isn’t an ideal spa day experience. Imagine the ensuing pain that comes with ripping a bandage off… now multiply that by at least 5.

3) Yuck! — While getting a full leg or armpit wax removes unwanted hair, it often results in bumps, ingrown hairs, rashes, and even pimples. Have sensitive skin? The hot wax can cause unwanted irritation that will leave you with legs you’ll cover up instead of show off.

4) Nasty! — No one knows how sanitary the salon wax actually is (or the actual salon for that matter!). With waxing, there is always risk of a bacterial infection, skin infection, or even a disease since it strips away the body’s natural protective layer that prevents bacteria from penetrating the skin.

5) Dang it! — Last minute beach trip or spontaneous first date will never fly since you need at least 3-4 weeks of hair growth for the wax to adhere. So if you have last minute plans, you’d be out of luck!

So if you’re joining the thousands of women who are saying “heck no” to waxing, what is the simplest, softest, smoothest solution? 800razors.com, the burn-free razor company that offers the “Burn-Free Guarantee” – no skin burn, wallet burn, or American job-loss burn!

What I think: I have tested their 5-Blade Women’s Razor. This is a great razor! It has a lubricating strip all around and a soapbar at the bottom. The 5 blades gives a very smooth shave and it is easy to change the heads.

Learn more and purchase at www.800razors.com.

In the 1980s Sure Anti-perspirant/Deodorant ran one of the most memorable advertising campaigns with the slogan, “Raise your hand if you’re Sure.” Today, the brand is offering women even more confidence to go about their day. They recently revealed a new look and introduced two new conditioning solids –Vitamin Infusion and Pure Essence.

The new conditioning solids offer a pH-balanced invisible formula that provides lasting odor and wetness protection while working to reduce irritation and smooth rough patches. The unscented Vitamin Infusion formula conditions and repairs skin with Vitamins A and E, while the Pure Essence variety features a light fragrance and soothing aloe extracts.

Sure products are available nationwide at major drug stores and retail for around $2.99 each. Available varieties include Unscented, Regular Scent, Fresh Scent, Powder Scent, Vitamin Infusion and Pure Essence.

What I think: I have been given the new scents, Vitamin Infusion and Pure Essence. I really like the soft scent of Pure Essence. I use a stronger deodorant, but I gave these to my teenage daughters and they love them! They keep them dry all day.

Learn more at www.suredeodorant.com.

Shea Butter Deep Conditioning Moisturizer by Jergens ($8.99 for the large 16.8 oz) — Blended with pure African shea butter, this rich mix of vital nutrients
instantly relieves dryness, replenishes depleted moisture and enhances the
performance of skin’s own moisture barrier.

What I think — this is so moisturizing on my dry, fall skin! My legs have been so dry since the weather turned cold. This keeps them soft all day long!

http://www.jergens.com/radiance

Enjoy your you time!

Great Products To Show Your Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

There are so many great products out for 2013 Breast Cancer Awareness Month! I have compiled a small list of products that are fab in their own right, but coupled with this worthy cause, are better — and pinker — this month!

You can’t go wrong with any of these:

Marc Jacobs Daisy Hot Pink Edition ($79, 1.7 FL OZ) — $3 from each sale up to $50,000 will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

The notes of this pretty fragrance are:

Strawberry, Violet Leaves, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Gardenia, Violet Petals, Jasmine Petals, Musk, Vanilla, White Woods.

Available now at retailers nationwide.

ck one shine lipstick breast cancer awareness limited edition ($16 USD) — This moisturizing lipstick is a fun, bright pink. $1 from each sale will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Available at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com

Sensai’s Total Lip Treatment ($68) helps promote collagen synthesis around the lip area. The luxurious balm works to repair rough, chapped lips while minimizing the appearance of fine lines. Lips are left feeling smooth and moisturized.

This October, Sensai by Kanebo will donate 15% of their Total Lip Treatment sales to The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer®.

Available at Bergdorf Goodman.

Mally Best Days Kit — Mally Your Brightest Days Are Ahead Kit

As a mother, daughter, and woman, Mally Roncal, Celebrity Makeup Artist and President / Founder of Mally Beauty has been personally touched by breast cancer. To stand with other women who hold this cause close to their hearts, Mally is offering an uplifting seven piece collection, the Brightest Days Are Ahead Kit.

With each purchase, a donation will be made to the Fashion Footwear Charitable Foundation’s breast cancer fundraising efforts (FFCF). FFCF leads the industry’s fundraising efforts for innovative breast cancer research and provides grants to the nation’s most distinguished breast cancer research hospitals and foundations.

Housed in a beautiful tote that reads “your best days are ahead” the Brightest Days Are Ahead Kit holds:

§ NEW Perfect Skin Illuminating Refiner with a brush and sponge

§ Perfect Prep Under Eye Brightener in Lighter

§ NEW Luxury Lipstick in Pilar Pink

§ Evercolor Shadow Stick in Empowering Lilac

§ Evercolor Starlight Eyeliner in Fearless Brown

§ Mally Inspirational Bag: To remind you, wherever you are, that “Your Best Days are Ahead”

The Mally Beauty Brightest Days Ahead Limited-Edition Kit retails for $59.98 (MSRP: $140.00) during the month of October.

Breast Cancer Awareness Wet Brush ($14 USD) To commemorate their commitment to the fight against Breast Cancer, JDB proudly introduces the limited edition version of their best-selling detangler, The 2013 Breast Cancer Awareness Wet Brush.

This brush not only combats tangles, but also helps support the battle against Breast Cancer. Take comfort in knowing that every purchase goes towards supporting lifesaving research, providing valuable services to breast cancer sufferers, and creating awareness around this surmountable obstacle.

Dedicated to supporting charities, JDB’s unwavering commitment to various Breast Cancer Awareness programs shows the company’s continued pledge to help bring hope into the lives of so many people.

25% of JDB’s total profits will go towards Breast Cancer research.

Availability: TheWetBrush.com

This October Julep will release “Edith” ($14 USD) created in honor of the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation. The nail color is a pretty cherry blossom pink crème with holographic glitter.

Available at www.julep.com

Enjoy the month and giving for a great cause!

Gorgeous New Lip Glosses Help Protect Your Pout

Deep, matte lip colors abound this season. But I have to be honest, I usually wear light color lip glosses all year round. I like that it goes with every outfit and makeup look and lighter colors make lips look fuller.

Here are some of my new favorites that not only look great on, but have good for you ingredients:

Savannah Bee Beeswax Lip Gloss ($7 USD). Beeswax naturally hydrates and protects for softer, healthier lips. Choose from these colorful and intoxicating bouquets: Mint Blossom, Wild Blackberry, and Tupelo Honey.

Savannah Bee Beeswax Lip Gloss contains no parabens, no petroleum derived ingredients, and is never tested on animals. It is made from all natural ingredients and is gluten-free.

Available at www.savannahbee.com

Pacifica Enlightened Lip Gloss in Opal ($12 USD) Supernatural shine, super smooth and non-sticky with nourishing hydration and long-lasting natural color. Our Enlightened Gloss Nourishing Mineral Lip Shine is infused with coconut and antioxidants to help support superior lip health. This gloss is for anyone who wants to hydrate their lips and add gorgeous sheer color with a glossy shine. As with all of our products, these are 100% vegan & cruelty free. Formulated without carmine, FD&C color, talc, phthalates, parabens, sorbital and petroleum.

Opal is an opalescent pale peach/ pink. Just enough pale color. Pairs perfectly with smoky eyes.

Learn more at www.pacificaperfume.com

beautyADDICTS Lip ADDICTION ($17 USD) — This creamy, high-shine lip gloss provides intense, opulent color while nourishing lips with vitamins and plumping lips with peptides. Lip Addiction lets you choose from 10 must-have shades to feed your addiction for the perfect, painted pout.

Purchase at www.beautyaddicts.com.

Enjoy!