I was sent the Colgate Optic White Regimen to review from Influenster. (Check out www.influenster.com, they send out great products to try. Comment on this post if you would like an invitation to join).
The claim of these products: The collection of Colgate® Optic White® products whitens more than 3 shades* and results start in one week. With Colgate® Optic White®, the only accessory you need to look fabulous is your smile. *based on twice daily use for 4 weeks.
The products are:
Colgate® Optic White® toothpaste – Whitens more than 3 shades*, results start in one week. Try our three different flavors and see which one is best for you!
Sparkling Mint
Cool Mild Mint
Enamel White
New Optic White™ Mouthwash — the perfect complement to Colgate® Optic White® Toothpaste. Designed with a dynamic foaming action to reach hard-to-brush places, it helps whiten teeth by removing surface stains. This alcohol-free solution is available in a Sparkling Fresh Mint flavor to freshen breath while whitening teeth, and contains polyphosphates to prevent future stains.
The Optic White® Toothbrush — For optimal whitening results, use a Colgate® 360°® Optic White® Toothbrush. It helps whiten your teeth in two important ways:
Whitening cups. These soft rubber cups are designed to hold toothpaste to more effectively remove surface stains for a whiter smile.
Polishing bristles. Help whiten teeth by polishing away surface stains and clean hard-to-reach areas for a full white smile.
I have to say that my favorite item in the bunch is the toothbrush. It really gets teeth clean. I also liked the toothpaste as it cleans, whitens and freshens breath. The mouthwash was too strong for me and hurt my sensitive teeth so I only used it once.
After using the toothpaste until it ran out, I can tell you that my teeth do look whiter. I will definitely purchase the toothpaste and toothbrush again!
Still looking for something to give the men in your life for Father’s Day this year?
L’Occitan Gift Set
L’Occitan Gift Set ($65): Celebrating classic Provence and its men, indulge in the rawest French ingredients with this fragrance. For a man who never forgets his origins.
Our best-selling men’s fragrance. The provencal aromas of distilled lavender and the peppery, nutmeg scent of burnt wood are the inspiration for this rugged and mysterious range.
This set includes:
L’Occitan Shower Gel 5.1 fl.oz
L’Occitan Shaving Gel 1 fl.oz
L’Occitan After-Shave Balm 1 oz
L’Occitan Eau de Toilette 3.4 fl.oz.
Prada Amber Pour Homme Intense Gift Set
Prada Amber Pour Homme Intense Gift Set ($80 USD) — Prada Amber Pour Homme Intense reawakens the core elegance of the original Amber Pour Homme by revealing the expression of amber and infusing it with notes of bergamot, patchouli and vanilla. This gift set includes a 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray, 3.4 oz After Shave Balm and a 1.7 oz Bath & Shower Gel.
Limited Edition Birchbox Handsome and Hungry box ($48 USD) —
There’s no guy who deserves the best more than Dad. Just in time for Father’s Day, we’ve created a limited edition box that’s filled with products that are perfect for Dad’s day off. (Or any guy, for that matter.) These top-notch items will improve every item on his leisure agenda, from grooming to grilling. A $110+ value!
How it Works
This limited edition box includes items designed to optimize two crucial parts of any guy’s day: his style and his meals. Anthony Logistics for Men® Glycolic Facial Cleanser will get things off to a squeaky clean start. After Shave Balm and Oil Free Moisturizer, both by Baxter of California, will make that morning shave a pleasure. (Don’t worry, there’s a razor too—by the experts at Gillette®.) Recipe for Men’s Antiperspirant Deodorant will ensure that sweat and odor don’t get in the way of the day’s lineup, whether it includes casting a line or tossing a football, while some Lucky Tiger Natural Peppermint Lip Balm will keep chapping at bay. On the food front, there’s a vial of Sel Magique, a game-changing seasoning, and a quartet of Quirky Sliders that will vastly improve his grill game.
Gift this limited edition box to your dad or another deserving guy. Each box contains:
HANDSOME
Anthony Logistics for Men | Glycolic Facial Cleanser
Lucky Tiger | Peppermint Lip Balm
Recipe for Men | Antiperspirant Deodorant
Baxter of California | After Shave Balm
Baxter of California | Oil Free Moisturizer
Gillette | Razor
HUNGRY
Sel Magique | Sea Salt
Quirky | Sliders
Visit www.birchbox.com to order this box or to give a gift of their monthly subscription box. Men’s Gift Subscription Pricing:
$60 for 3 months
$110 for 6 months
$195 for 1 year
During summer, we show more skin so we have lots of preparing to do! From shaving, to moisturizing, to using sunscreen our skin receives a lot of prep to look good!
Here are products I have received for my honest review. They may get your skin looking it’s very best!
Schick Hydro Silk®
This spring/summer let Schick Hydro Silk help you prepare for any adventure.
This spring Schick Hydro Silk has launched a new line of disposable razors to ensure you receive the “highest performance” women’s disposable yet! The unique Schick Hydro Silk Disposables ($12.99 USD) razors deliver an experience far beyond just an incredibly close shave, and actually care for the skin by helping to replenish moisture shaving can take away.
If you are one of the 20% who prefer to only use a refillable razor, try the new Limited Edition Schick Hydro Silk Razor ($11.99 USD). In a vibrant Caribbean Green Handle, this razor features a new ventilated travel cover to protect the cartridge for when you’re on the go.
What I think: I love these razors. Most moisturizing shavers are bulky and don’t give a close shave. These do. And the shape of the razor head lets you get in close.
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ Sunscreen Clear Mist Spray ($9.99 USD) is truly indulgent sun protection in a convenient application format that provides the moisture needed to leave skin feeling hydrated and healthy. Available in SPF 15 and 30, Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ Clear Mist Spray Sunscreen provides safe and effective broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, and is endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation
What I think: I love spray sunscreen. Fast and easy to use, plus this one has Hawaiian Tropics’ signature scent that smells so fantastic!
Available at mass market retailers near you.
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ After Sun Lotion
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ After Sun Lotion ($7.99 USD) – is the first and only after sun product combining indulgent ribbons of gel and lotion infused with silk protein and shea butter to provide luxurious moisturization for a full 24 hours. Ribbons of aloe soothe and refresh the skin from the effects of the sun, while silk protein shea butter ribbons of lotion provide incredible moisturization that leaves skin feeling hydrated, healthy and radiant.
What I think: After the sun, be sure to moisturize. This one smells amazing and is made to take care of sun-ravaged skin. Also great for after sunless tanning.
Available at drugstores and mass market retailers.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil Rosehip
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil Rosehip ($9.99 USD) – NEW! Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil, Rosehip, is an advanced multi-purpose skin perfection product that can be used all over the body and face. This preservative-free, phthalate free, lightweight formula contains an exclusive blend of key ingredients formulated to help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, dry, damaged skin, uneven skin tone, aging skin and fine lines and wrinkles. Skin looks and feels instantly soft and smooth with this unique, non-greasy, non-staining formula.
What I think: Sometimes a lotion doesn’t give the kind of moisture your skin may crave. This oil is perfect for very dry skin, or skin with stretchmarks or scars. It is also great for after sun or self tanning. Remember, moisturizing the skin will make your tan (real or fake) last longer.
Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers near you.
Burt’s Bees is launching NEW Revitalizing Lip Balm with Blueberry & Dark Chocolate
Give lips an antioxidant boost with the free radical-fighting effects of new Revitalizing Lip Balm with Blueberry & Dark Chocolate. Burt’s Bees’ latest balm is packed with natural antioxidant powerhouses and natural butters and oils to renew and restore. Infused with replenishing Blueberry Seed Oil, sweet Cocoa Powder and rich Cocoa Seed Butter, the balm is an instant revitalizing lift and a decadent treat for lips. Like a superfood in a tube, the balm is a new go-to for natural nourishment and antioxidant perks.
What I think: This is not an SPF balm, it is for after sun and helping restore lips after sun damage. Plus, it smells so yummy!
Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers near you.
Cortizone 10 Poison Ivy Relief Pads
Cortizone 10 Poison Ivy Relief Pads ($8.99 for 10 SnapplicatorsTM), are formulated to provide fast relief from exposure to poison ivy, oak and sumac with a combination of aloe, botanicals and oat extract. The pads cool and soothe irritated skin on contact. Cortizone 10 Poison Ivy Relief Pads offer convenience, portability, simplicity and fast relief to intense itching, rashes and inflammation.
Cortizone 10 Poison Ivy Relief Pads Fast Facts:
● Product benefits: The strongest itch medicine without a prescription available; new single-dose SnapplicatorTM provides no-mess, no touch application that easily applies onto skin.
● How to Use: Grasp SnapplicatorTM between the thumbs and forefingers. Snap to release product through pad top. Dab medicine onto affected area and rub onto skin. Discard.
● Uses: Adults and children 2 years of age and older who have skin with symptoms associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation and rashes due to poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac.
What I think: These are so nice to have in a summer first aid kit. Especially if you are going into forests and you don’t know what type of plants are there. And they work! My daughter had some type of bites or rash on her leg the other day. This was very easy to use and helped the itch go away. And the rash cleared up in a day or two.
Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers near you.
Summer is coming! To get ready for it, I have been stocking on some fab products to protect me from the sun’s harmful rays, and to sooth my skin afterwards.
I have received so many great products for my honest review, that I’ve had to split this up into two long posts. I hope this gives you some great ideas!
Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum
Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum ($42; travel size $20) – City Sunscreen Serum is a multitasking broad spectrum SPF 30+ daily repair serum for skin exposed to the sun, both in the past and the present. This ultra-light, Broad Spectrum SPF 30+ simultaneously protects skin, moisturizes on contact and combats premature aging. with Antioxidants E and B5 to optimize skin health, promote nutrient absorption and cell renewal and HYDROVOTIN 24 to simulate the skin’s natural moisturizing factor for hydrated and moisturized skin without a rich cream or thick lotion. The perfect first step SPF primer, post cleansing.
What I think: This is the first serum with SPF I have tried. It is a very lightweight serum that soaks right into the skin. I love that it gives anti-aging skin care benefits plus the SPF of 30.
Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Waterlight ($48 USD) — This ultra-fluid, waterlight sunscreen—that blends effortlessly into skin—provides hydration, SPF50+ broad spectrum protection, and anti-aging benefits. A cutting-edge delivery system ensures that the Sunscreen stays in a reservoir on the skin’s surface, while Advanced Ingredients penetrate to restore optimal moisture levels and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50+ sun protection
Contains physical, mineral sun blocking ingredients, without any chemical sunscreens
Utilizes a unique reservoir technology that keeps sunscreen on the surface of the skin
What I think: This is a wonderful sunscreen that is so light you can use it over a heavier moisturizer if you need one. It also has great anti-aging benefits. Great if you are looking for a sunscreen to use with your normal skin care regimen.
Naturals Skincare Sheer Zinc Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 by Peter Lamas
Naturals Skincare Sheer Zinc Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 by Peter Lamas ($44 USD) -offers the ultimate sun protection, this lightweight moisturizer is packed with powerful antioxidant-rich ingredients that help nourish and protect complexion from sun damage. A synergy of active ingredients, which includes natural Mineral Sunscreen Zinc Oxide, defends against free radicals and hydrates the skin while Grape Stem Cells help increase cell turnover rate to rejuvenate skin and repair damage caused over time by harmful UV rays. Zinc Oxide creates an invisible barrier against the sun to provide broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, while photosomes help reverse UV-induced damage and help repair the skin’s DNA. Olive leaf extract—loaded with polyunsaturated acids—maintains moisture to help create a supple, more youthful-looking complexion.
What I think: I have been using this for a couple of weeks now. I love the SPF, but since it contains Zinc in it, you need to blend it well so white residue doesn’t appear on the skin. I also like to let it sink in for a few minutes before I apply my makeup.
Coming in June to PeterLamas.com.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($42 USD) – Many women prefer a light foundation when lounging by the pool or on a beach, as anything too heavy tends to melt away. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 offers sheer coverage, light moisturization and sun protection-! Toss this 3-in-1 multi-tasker in your beach bag to achieve the perfect dewy glow.
What I think: I have heard great things about this moisturizer, and I was not disappointed. This is so moisturizing that you can skip your normal moisturizer if you wish and apply it right over serum. It covers well, but is light enough to look natural.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone BB Cream (Beauty Balm Cream,$11.99 USD) is a multifunctional formula that targets discoloration and spots while providing natural pigment-perfecting coverage and SPF 15 protection from the sun. Formulated with our Tone Enhancing Complex + Mineral pigment to even skin tone, renew radiance and leave skin with a flawless finish. It:
Targets discoloration
Provides superior moisturization
Protects skin from the sun
Provides lightweight coverage to conceal imperfections
Prevents discoloration from recurring
Brightens complexion
Reduces redness
Primes skin for makeup application
Available in two shades: Fair/Light and Medium/Dark.
What I think: This is the lightest BB Cream I have used. It is very moisturizing, but the coverage isn’t for those who want full coverage. It you want to wake up in the morning and just put this on, you will look very natural and receive skin care benefits.
Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers near you.
eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm
eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Lemon Drop with SPF 15 ($3.29 USD) – Pamper your lips while you protect them from the sun with this irresistibly refreshing Broad Spectrum SPF 15 lip balm that’s bursting with natural flavor.
What I think: I love eos lip balms. These are fun and very moisturizing. They also taste great. This one is perfect for the summer since it has SPF.
For the past few summers I have been enjoying experimenting with self-tanners. I am very wary of the sun and try to wear lots of sunscreen when I go out. Plus, I am not much of a sunbather anyway.
It has taken me these few years to get self-tanning right. It is so easy for skin to become streaky or blotchy after self-tanning. But if you exfoliate the skin and slather moisturizer on your hands and feet (these places can look uneven), plus use a fab product like the ones below, self-tanners can make you look great!
I have been receiving samples of self-tanners to review for my honest opinion. Here’s what I think of the gradual self tanners and instant self-tanners I have been using.
Supergoop! ‘Gradual Self-Tanning’ Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20 ($38 USD) – Antioxidant-rich formula improves skins appearance and provides a slight lustrous summer sheen to the skin upon application. Let Supergoop help prepare you for a day in the sun with this melt into your skin, gradual self-tanning mousse also delivering globally approved SPF protection, and rich moisture in one easy step. Sensitive, dry skin is soothed and restored; Wonderful and light, green tea plus cucumber scent.
Pros: Easy to blend, very moisturizing, doesn’t stain hands, spf 20, non-streaky
Cons: funky scent, takes a few days of use to see a noticeable difference (could be a pro if you want a light tan), spendy
Jergens Natural Glow + Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen ($9.99 USD) – Spring has arrived, so it’s time to show some skin. Get natural-looking color gradually, with SPF 20. Jergens®Jergens® Natural Glow + PROTECT Daily Moisturizer SPF 20 is the only body moisturizer in the Natural Glow line with SPF protection. Try it today for A beautiful, safe, and healthy natural-looking color.
Pros: Nice scent at first, moisturizing, non-streaking, can see a bit of a difference the next day and deepens quickly with a few days of use, affordable
Cons: leaves a lingering mild chemical scent
Learn more at www.jergens.com. Available at mass market retailers near you.
tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt
tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt ($37 USD) – A revolutionary maracuja-infused face and body self tanner. Achieve a healthy faux-glow while drenching your skin in moisture. This revolutionary hybrid gel formula, infused with pure maracuja oil, delivers replenishing essential fatty acids along with skin-brightening and youth-preserving vitamin C. tarte’s proprietary PUREshield™ scent-control technology allows for a pleasant, spa-like application that smells unlike any self tanner you’ve tried before. You’ll be admiring your newly bronzed bod, your skin will feel and look firmer, brighter and smoother soaking in all of the benefits of maracuja oil.
Pros: tinted so that you can see where you apply, comes with a mitt so hands won’t stain, nice scent, imparts a deep tan color, leaves skin very soft, worth the price!
Cons: scent turns chemical and stays on skin for a day or two
Vita Liberata pHenomenal Self Tanner ($54 USD) –pHenomenal gives a longer-lasting tan – up to 4 times longer than any other tan, with a perfect, natural fade. Available in Fair, Medium and Dark.
Incorporates new technology (pHeno2) that works with unique Time Release DHA which slowly releases DHA over time to extend tan – lasts 4 times longer than any other tan.
Mousse formulation is quick-drying, light and airy to give a beautiful, natural bronze result which leaves the skin soft and moisturized.
Pros: foam is light, tinted and easy to blend, beautiful deep tan color, initial smell with application ends and there is NO scent afterwords, which I have never encountered in a self-tanner (worth the steep price!)
Somerville360® Body Self Tanning Towelettes make it easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan. Best of all, because this advanced formula works with your skin’s own proteins, it gradually darkens to an ultra-natural, complementary color every time.
Somerville360® Face Self Tanning Pads are quick and easy-to-use while preventing uneven tone and streaking, plus they won’t stain hands. Specially designed for the face, this advanced moisturizing formula contains powerful Peptide K8™ and age-defying actives, designed to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, while creating a glowing complexion in two to four hours.
Pros: Deep tan color is almost instant, easy to use – especially the face pads, leaves skin very soft
Cons: Chemical scent after tanning lasts a day or two, make sure to exfoliate and lotion up feet and hands because this can streak if not blended well
Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturizer
Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturizer ($48 USD) -Stay gorgeous, golden, and glowing with a unique formula that conditions and moisturizes skin for a longer lasting tan. A specialized Peptide and Lipid Complex hydrates skin to help maintain a sun-kissed look after using self-tanning products or sun exposure. Black Snakeroot conditions, moisturizes, and soothes skin for after-sun recovery that prevents peeling and dryness. Rich natural Oils and Butters seal in hydration, making this essential formula a great year-round moisturizer to maximize and help prolong a healthy looking tan.
Enhances the look of both natural and self tanning
Prolongs the life and beauty of a tan
Provides soothing post-sun recovery, replenishing essential lipids that condition and moisturize
Helps prevent peeling and dryness by providing continuous
This is great to use after all self-tanning products (and from sun exposure, we can’t always stay out of the sun).
Take your summer manicure out of this world with China Glaze® Hologlam, an all new 12-piece collection of shimmering holographic China Glaze® established itself as the leader in holographic nail lacquer with the 2007 OMG! China Glaze® established itself as the leader in holographic nail lacquer with the 2007 OMG!collection, one of the most popular collections in the brands’ history. Fueled by that success and back by popular demand, China Glaze® Hologlam uses reflective, holographic particles to capture light and transform nails into amazing, ever-changing visual effects. With a strong linear finish whether indoor or shining bright in the sun, China Glaze® Hologlam bends and changes, creating an illuminated three-dimensional, traveling color effect across the nail.
The China Glaze® Hologlam collection features 12 futuristic shades, including:
Get Outta My Space: powdered violet
Astro-Hot: soft, baby pink
Infra-Red: warm, magenta pink
When Stars Collide: warm maroon
Not In This Galaxy: bright, warm coral
OMG A UFO: warm, moss green
Don’t Be A Luna-Tic: turquoise aqua
Sci-Fly By: light, silver blue
Take A Trek: cool, denim blue
Strap On Your Moonboots: midnight sky blue
Galactic Gray: warm, gunmetal
Cosmic Dust: silver metal
China Glaze is free of DBP, toluene, and added formaldehyde. The China Glaze® Hologlam (collection is available in April 2013 at fine salons and beauty supply stores nationwide.
Poole and Bobby Dazzler
butter LONDON Summer Holiday Collection ($15 USD)– proves that bronze have more fun! With their Summer Holiday Collection, a lineup of six lacquers that serve up the perfect pop of colour against sun-kissed skin. Inspired by cultural elements and gilded textures, the Summer Holiday Collection includes sultry metallics in platinum, gold and rust, as well as crushed glitter in rich shades of copper and umber.
SHADES:
Bit Faker – A full coverage bronze glitter that was inspired by the tan from a can.
Sun Baker – This rust orange shimmer is named for a those slaves to sun whose skin had taken an odd and unnatural tone.
Champers – This rose gold shimmer is Brit slang for champagne; pop a bottle in the hamper for a toast on the beach-or anywhere else.
Poole – A robin’s egg blue crème inspired by this seaside resort town in high summer.
Marbs – This unique yellow-gold stunner was named for the city of Marbella on the Mediterranean.
Bobby Dazzler – Look fit and rock your fancy in this opaque silver chrome.
FACE Stockholm Optical Diffusions Holographic Nail Polish ($16 USD) -A new dimension in nail color, this special effect polish offers high impact holographic shimmer. Each shade captures the light to reveal a full spectrum of radiant, iridescent color combinations. Formaldehyde, Toluene and DBP-free.
China Glaze Texture Collection ($7.50 USD) – China Glaze® introduces Texture, a unique new lacquer that applies as a crème but dries with a 3D texture effect. Unlike traditional nail art techniques that require multiple steps, Texture only requires one step—painting the nail. Texture dries matte, but can be combined with China Glaze® Fast Forward Top Coat for a glossy effect. With a finish similar to that of a sugared rim, Texture is the perfect accessory for a beach day, night-on-the town, or special rendezvous.
Shades are: Unrefined – bright pink with textured grit In the Rough – light lime green with textured grit Itty, Bitty and Gritty – melon with textured grit Of Coarse! – bright, cobalt blue with textured grit Bump & Grind – hot pinkish-red with textured grit Toe-tally Textured – tangerine-orange with textured grit
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) and Pinterest (pinterest.com/chinaglaze).
Gabrielle and Zelda
I am a Julep Maven. That means that for 19.99 per month I receive a box of nail polish and beauty products delivered to my door! The May box had Great Gatsby Roaring 20’s style polishes. The ones to the left are Gabrielle (Smoky mulberry crème) and Zelda (Pink champagne metallic). Julep’s polishes are gorgeous and are “4-free” and do not contain formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, or DBP. The professional chip-resistant formulation is fast drying and highly pigmented. June’s theme is Sail into Summer and I will try to feature it after I review it. If you would like to become a Maven, click on:http://www.julep.com/rewardsref/index/refer/id/110583/
If you click on that link or manually enter code 8514891 at check out, I will receive a bonus to use toward future boxes. I would really appreciate that!
If there is one thing Maybelline New York knows, it’s that makeup is the perfect accessory. IT Girls are all about adding a few key pieces every season to keep their look fresh, gorgeous and on trend.Maybelline New York makes it easy this summer with six hot limited edition collections –available only for the month of May. Stylish women everywhere will be able to add a pop of color to their makeup wardrobe.
Go for the faux: Every IT Girl knows a faux glow is the only way to go, but it’s not always easy to achieve the perfect bronzed look. The limited edition Dream Sun Bronzing collection makes it a snap!
· Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Four Seasons is a unique, multi-tonal palette that creates a customized bronzed look. Choose how light or dark you want to go, or combine the shades all over for a radiant glow. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99
· Illuminate skin with the Dream Sun Bronzing Face Illuminator, a gel formula that reflects light to highlight skin and create a warm, shimmery glow. Available in one universal shade. $8.99
· Perfect for all-over bronzing, the Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Matte creates a natural sun-kissed glow in a matte finish that is ideal for the T-zone. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99
· The Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Glow offers a touch of shimmer that’s perfect for cheekbones and brow bones or to add a touch of sultriness to shoulders, collarbones and décolleté. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99
Seaso-nail Colors: Nothing says summer more than a bright manicure!Color Show Nail Lacquer will be available in 10 show-stopping new shades that will perfectly complement your summer wardrobe. The chip resistant formula will be available in:Azure Seas, Bare Escape, Canary Cool, Midnight Swim, Mint Mist, Pacific Blues, Poolside,Sandstorm, Turquoise Paradise and Urban Utopia. $3.99
Get inked: Make eyes pop with eight bold shades of Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24 HR Cream-Gel Shadow. The semi-permanent gel-cream smoothes on for vibrant, crease-resistant color that wears for 24 hours – a must for steamy summer days. Amp up your look with one of these flattering shades: Blue Paradise, Cool Crush, Icy Mint, Lavish Lavender, Precious Pearl, Seashore Frosts, Shady Shores or Waves of White. $6.99
Up the Drama:Put a spin on the smoky eye with the Eye Studio Master Drama Cream Pencil in Navy Knockout or Taupe Takeover. This eyeliner, which applies with the ease of a pencil and the intensity of a cream, allows for an incredibly bold and long-wearing line. Best of all, it’s waterproof, smudge-resistant and lasts for 24 hours. $7.99
Go light:Get soft, sexy lips with Color Sensational Color Whisper. This lightweight lipstick creates translucent, light color with a kiss of shine. Nourishing honey nectar keeps lips soft and the barely there feel makes this a summer beauty must-have. Try it in one – or all four! – of the limited edition shades: I Crave Coral,Nude Shimmer, Ravishing Pink and Sienna Sands. $7.49
Shine on:Make a statement with six gorgeous shades of Color Sensational High Shine Lip Gloss. This wax-free gloss delivers pure color for saturated look with the ultimate shine. Honey nectar nourishes lips.Coral Heat, Fuschia Sparks, Nude Compliment, Peach Glisten, Peony Sheen, and Rose Lust pack the perfect punch. $7.49
These Maybelline New York limited edition collections will be available at select mass retailers nationwide for the month of May 2013 only.
Dramatic eye makeup seems to always be in. Whether you wish to rock a smokey eye during summer nights or apply waterproof eyeliner and mascara for days at the pool or lake, having the perfect eye makeup is key.
Start of with a shimmery shadow:
essence 3D duo eyeshadow
3D duo eyeshadow ($3.49 USD) — The ultra-light yet high-coverage formula creates a cool finish with a 3D effect – from satin to metallic to shimmering. Six duo eyeshadows, each with two perfectly aligned shades, create a multi-dimensional eye look for the perfect spring look. The shades left to right are Irresistable First Love, Irresistable Mermaid Kiss, Irresistable Purr-ple, Irresistable Caramel Cream, Irresistable Chocolates, and Irresistable Smoky Eye.
essence Night Club Eyeshadow Palette
essence Night Club Eyeshadow Palette ($4.49 USD) — Party time! These two eyeshadow palettes offer ultimate glamour and are sure to fit into even the tiniest party clutch. Eight eyeshadow colors with a powdery texture and various finishing effects create expressive “night-on-the-town” eye make-up styles. Available in two color palettes with an optimized brush and sponge applicator. The palettes are Dance Til Dawn and Already Midnight.
Glam’Eyes HD Eyeshadows ($5.99 USD): Add depth with this unique 4-shade palette with multi-reflective pigments that look perfect under any light. The velvety, creamy formula blends effortlessly for up to ten hours of wear. Available in 8 shades. Above is Green Park, Also available in Purple Reign, Black Cab, English Oak, English Rose, Royal Blue, Heart of Gold, and True Union Jack.
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
ScandalEyes Eye Shadow Sticks ($4.49 each): Sweep on high impact color with a precision tip applicator that helps this ultra-soft shadow stick glide on for a shiny and luminous finish. Available in 9 shades: Gossip Green, Paranoid Purple, Guilty Grey, Whiteness White, Bulletproof Beige, Bad Girl Bronze, Tempting Turquoise, Blackmail, and Blamed Blue.
Learn more at www.rimmelondon.con and available at mass market retailers eveywhere.
MAKE Glitter Eyeshadow in Alabaster
MAKE Glitter Eyeshadow ($18 USD) Not tested on animals, cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, mineral-oil-free, oil-free. in two shades, Alabaster, a warm white with a peach undertone. Quartz: An icy white with a silver undertone.
essence stays no matter what waterproof collection
essence STAYS no matter what Collection
With a party-proof claim, these products are sure to keep you looking your best all night long!
• stays no matter what waterproof eye pencil ($1.99)
• stays no matter what 24h waterproof eyeliner pen ($3.29)
• stays no matter what 24h waterproof volume mascara ($4.99)
Available at mass market retailers near you.
Rimmel London ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
Rimmel London ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner ($4.49 USD) — Start by lining and defining eyes with shocking color that lasts. This ultra smooth and creamy formula glides on easily, and the waterproof, sweat-proof, and smudge-proof liner is even safe for sensitive eyes. Available in 10 shades: Purple, Black, Taupe, Sparkling Black, Brown Nude, Deep Blue, Turquoise, Light Blue, and Silver.
Skincare is constantly evolving and improving. I LOVE trying new products, including these breakthrough ones below that were sent to me for my honest opinion.
PCA Skin Pigment Bar – pHaze 13
PCA Skin Pigment Bar – pHaze 13 ($28 USD) — A cleansing, anti-hyperpigmentation bar for skin suffering from discoloration.
Pigment Bar is the cleansing companion in PCA’s pigment control program, designed to enhance and maintain the complexion-refining results produced by its sister products. pHaze 13 Pigment Bar helps control blemish outbreaks and discolorations as it cleanses the skin of dirt and debris. For pigment control maintenance, use two to three times weekly.
This is such an easy way to clean skin. It comes with three flat sponges that expand once wet. The jar contains a black solid (the bar). To use I wet the sponge and rub it on the bar for lather. I then wash my face with the sponge. It cleans without drying out my skin. I haven’t noticed any lightening of sun spots yet, but for a daily fash soap it works great!
Algenist Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer ($42 USD) — With an advanced formulation that combines Alguronic Acid with 7 additional active ingredients, the Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer creates a satin-soft finish for long-lasting makeup application. Delivering more than your average primer, this formula also visibly refines pores, blurs fine lines and improves skin’s texture and tone, just in time to highlight that summer glow.
Currently this is my favorite primer. It instantly evens out my skin and blurs the appearance of my pores. It also smooths my skin and prepares it for foundation or bb cream.
Available at Sephora, Sephora.com and Algenist.com
MitoQ
MitoQ ($185 USD) is considered to be the most potent antioxidant on the market to date and is proven to be 1000 times stronger than CoQ, a molecule used in many anti-aging products. MitoQ is the only topical cream that can deliver ubiquinone to mitochondria at levels shown to have an immense effect inrejuvenating the cells, encouraging the natural production of collagen and elastin and leaving skin looking radiant with a lit-from-within glow.
I have been using MitoQ for a few weeks now and noticed improvements in my skin almost instantly. My skin looks so much better. It is less blotchy, more even and I don’t see any fines lines or wrinkles around my eyes. And my skin does glow!
Orico Streetwise Oxygenating Day Cream ($42 USD) –Breathe new life into the skin. Streetwise Oxygenating Day Cream contains a clinical bioactive proven to help optimize cell respiration whilst smoothing, rejuvenating and protecting skin against daily urban pollution. This daily moisturizer with all-natural antioxidants Macadamia and Argan oil helps to reduce wrinkles, restore moisture levels, firmness and skin radiance. Fragrance free and suitable for sensitive skin.
As I get older, my skin becomes more sensitive. I love advanced anti-aging skincare like this that is also for sensitive skin. This is very moisturizing and gentle without being greasy or oily.
Summer makeup is usually bronze and shimmering and/or bright and fun. This years offerings are no different!
I love using self tanner (post to come), so in the summer I don’t cake on the makeup. So bronzer, great waterproof eye makeup and bright lips and eyes are the perfect products for an easy look.
I am so lucky to have been sent lots of fabulous makeup products for my honest opinion. I have a lot to review, and here are some great ones:
ck one summer limited edition color capsule
ck one summer limited edition explores the colorful world under the sea and transforms its
tropical hues into a vivid palette of summer shades.
the lineup includes:
ck one summer limited edition powder bronzer compact in shade 400 sandbar ($25 USD)
ck one summer limited edition long wear + shine nail color ($14 each) scented with ck one summer fragrance
in shades 500 riptide (shimmery aqua) and 610 current (bright green creme). Once dry, they smell fantastic!
ck one summer limited edition long wear cream eyeshadow tubes in shades 400 surge (bright turquoise), 500
reef (vivid green), and 720 dune (sandy beige) ($18 each).
I have been testing the nail polish in riptide and the cream eyeshadow in reef and dune. The polish is crazy-pretty and smells great after it dries. The eyeshadow in reef is a bit to bright for me, but I LOVE dune. It is bronzy summer in a tube and lasts a long time on.
You can purchase these at Ulta stores and www.ulta.com.
Summer 2013 Aqualillies for tarte limited-edition collection is so cool! Inspired by America’s most glamorous synchronized swimming group, the Aqualillies, this limited-edition collection includes seven splashproof products.
For additional information, check out the Aqualillies for tarte collaboration on tarte’s YouTube channel.
I have been testing the finishing powder, the lipstick and the eyeliners. The finishing powder is so good! Use a fluffy powder brush to buff it over foundation or bb cream. It sets your makeup and blurs the look of fine lines and pores.
The lipstick is gorgeous, but way to bright for me. I gave it to my teenage daughter and it is so pretty on her.
The eyeliners last FOREVER on. But the brush takes me a bit to get the hang of, and you only have a few minutes play until it is set and totally waterproof. Perfect for the pool!
Laura Mercier Folklore Collection — Laura Mercier’s inspiration for this collection stems from Aztec influences and fantastical rituals, colours in this collection are reminiscent of ancient symbols and artifacts, textiles and jewelry. When conceptualizing the collection, Laura envisioned the spirit of earth and fire infused into an illuminating new mosaic of colour. The products create a naturally bronzed look, with fiery shades that are perfect for day and night.
Products in the photo above are:
Crème Eye Liner ($22 USD) — An ultra-smooth, water-proof creamy eye liner that applies with the ease and smooth silky finish of a gel and the precision of a liquid liner. Smudge and transfer-resistant, this long-wearing formula goes on “foolproof” with the Laura Mercier Angled Eye Liner Brush. New colors are Canard (teal) and Cobalt (Vibrant Mid-Tone Blue).
Lip Crayon ($22 USD) A smooth lip colour that provides pure, long-wearing colour to lips in three on-trend shades for summer. With a convenient purse-friendly package, Lip Crayon never needs sharpening, making it perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go. The colors are Folklore (fuchsia), Mayan Sun (orange pink), and Burnt Clay (deep brown).
Baked Blush Bronze ($36 USD) — Laura Mercier Baked Blush Bronze is a baked powder with five complimentary shades that together provide the perfect, natural colour for cheeks and face. Each tile is hand-mixed with a unique design. The color is called Ritual and it is a warm bronze.
Illuminating Eye Colour (24 USD) — Eye colour with a multi-dimensional, luminous pearl finish with a soft, bouncy texture for excellent colour pay-off and a smooth, even application. The shades are Fire Glow (copper shimmer), Sun Glow (gold with shimmer) and Earth Glow (deep brown).
Faux Lash Mascara ($24 USD) — Give real lashes extreme volume and length for intense exaggeration and drama. The formula is extra-smooth, glossy and good-for-lashes, created with a blend of waxes and absolutely no fibers. Build rich, exaggerated lashes that are extraordinarily thick, super-shiny and conditioned. The new color is Sierra Brown.
I have been trying the eye shadows. I LOVE them. So pretty. I like to wear Sun Glow for an everyday light color and then add the Fire Glow in the crease and Earth Glow as a liner at night. So glam!
Forty, Flirty & Fabulous 