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Summer Skin Savers!

Skin can get too oily, blotchy from the sun or dry from sunburn during summer. So I really try to take care of my skin this time each year. Here are some amazing skin care ideas to help with your skin troubles.

BABOR CLEANSING HY-ÖL and Phytoactive Combination for Oily Skin Conditions

We’ve heard that certain things don’t mix, with oil and water being at the top of that list. In the first step toward beautiful skin, BABOR Cosmetics has a tried and true method that mixes the two perfectly. The brand successfully combines the natural cleansing power of oil and water to create a unique signature bi-phase system that ensures a mild but thorough deep-cleansing experience.

HY-ÖL ($32 USD), the brands signature product first introduced in 1955, is a gentle plant-based hydrophilic (water loving) cleansing oil formulated with pure herbal ingredients and free from preservatives. Suitable for all skin types, this cleansing oil base contains vitamin E to help trap free radicals while bisabolol calms the skin. This multi-purpose product can be used as an eye makeup remover and is meant to be paired with a Phytoactive (a water-soluble cleanser) such as the one designed for combination skin.

Phytoactive Combination ($28 USD) is the second-phase of the BABOR CLEANSING experience formulated to regulate and normalize oily and combination skin. When applied with the HY-ÖL, this herbal extract works to refine pores, regulate sebum production and calm irritation. Elderberry and witch hazel calm and soothe skin while sage and guaiazulene inhibit bacteria and inflammation.

PHASE 1: Massage three pumps of HY-ÖL onto the skin.

PHASE 2: Immediately apply two pumps of Phytoactive Combination on top and massage the two cleansers together. Add water, massage and rinse off. A wash cloth may be used, if desired.

What I think: I for one love a good cleansing oil. Some people can be afraid of using oil on the face, but it is great for all skin types (even oily). I love this system. I follow the steps above, and after a few weeks of use I find that instantly, my face is clean and refreshed without being too dry. The HY-ÖL is also wonderful by itself as an eye makeup remover! Available at www.babor.com and select spas nationwide.

Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads HiRes — Radical Skincare’s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads

Radical Skincare ‘s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads ($95 USD). Summer heat often has extreme effects on the skin, either causing dry flaky patches or nasty oily pores. Radical Skincare founders Liz and Rachel Edlich have created the Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads designed to help you remove that run-down top layer of skin, exposing soft beautiful skin. The Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads also combat summers’ effects on aging skin resulting in improved skin firmess and texture. Exclusively sold at Barneys, Radical Skincare ‘s Age Defying Exfoliating Pads are an extreme answer to and extreme problem.

What I think: This is a gentle, but effective exfoliator. I use one each night and it makes my skin glow without any irritation! This is for the person who doesn’t want a harsh exfoliator, but needs one that works! After a couple of weeks using this, my skin looks clearer and my enlarged pores look smaller! Visit www.radicalskincare.com to learn more!

Kate Somerville CytoCell P299 Oil Free Anti-Wrinkle Serum ($95 USD) — This concentrated treatment serum utilizes P299™, a scientifically advanced stem technology Polypeptide, to diminish the look of wrinkles and help fight the signs of aging by activating the natural renewal process that strengthens skin. Additional anti-aging ingredients—including Hyaluronic Acid and Marine Algae Extracts—not only even out the appearance, but also restore essential hydration. The result is a healthy-looking, radiant complexion that is unbelievably smooth.

P299™ is a scientifically proven active ingredient that helps stimulate the production of healthy skin
A blend of three advanced Peptides is designed to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles
An advanced Moisturizing Complex maintains optimal hydration levels and helps restore the skin’s natural capacity to retain moisture.
Oil-free formula is ideal for all skin types.

Results from an Independent Clinical Study include:

In just 2 weeks, 77% of women showed improved skin elasticity and firmness
In just 4 weeks, 91% of women showed a significant increase in moisture
In just 4 weeks, 77% women said their skin’s overall appearance was improved and healthier-looking
In just 4 weeks, CytoCell is proven to refine skin texture, improving the smoothness and luminosity of the skin

What I think: This is an extremely moisturizing serum, but is not heavy at all. I have been using it every night for a few weeks and really have seen a difference in my skin! The dry parts of my skin are more moisturized and my skin looks clearer and brighter. I also think it has been helping with my fine lines on my forehead. You can purchase it at www.katesomerville.com.

ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate From Avon

Avon ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate ($45 USD) — ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate,with patentedYouthGen™ Technologyis a skincare breakthrough serum that helps you look up to 10 years younger.* Genics Treatment Concentrate can be used with any skincare regimen.

Avon is the first with patentedYouthGen™ Technology– designed to stimulate the Youth Gene to help skin cells act younger.** Anew Genics Treatment Concentrate is also designed with carrot and soy extract to help stimulate a youth protein.

ANEW Genics Treatment Concentrate is formulated with 2X the YouthGen™ Technology of Genics Treatment Cream and provides the following dramatic results:

INSTANTLY:

• Skin looks and feels firmer*

• Boosts skin’s moisture by up to 165%

• Expressions lines appear softer*

IN 2 WEEKS:

• Plumps the look of wrinkles*

• Dramatically reduces the appearance of discolorations*

IN 8 WEEKS:

• Look up to 10 years younger

*Based on a consumer perception study of women 45-59. **Based on in vitro testing.

What I think: This has been my morning serum for that past couple of weeks because it is very light and soaks right in. I love the instant brightness my skin receives when I use this. My skin has been looking plumper and smoother lately, too. I also love the price of this amazing serum. I highly recommend it!

To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visitwww.avon.com.

Enjoy!

The Latina Beauty VoxBox From Influenster

I just received my second VoxBox from www.Influenster.com free to review! It is called the Latina Beauty VoxBox, and I am so excited to try all of these fab products!

I received:

VEET Ready to Use Wax Strips, Leg & Body ($9.99 USD for 40 strips)

Always Radiant Infinity Pads ($6.99 USD for 16)

NEW Bath and Body Works Shea-Enriched Signature Collection Shower Gel in Paris Amour ($5 For 3 oz and $11 for 10 oz).

NYC New York Color Liquid Lipshine in Nude York City ($2.49 USD)

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 ($7.99 for full size bottle)

Always Tampax Radiant Collection pouch with samples to give away to a friend!

I already really love the lip gloss and the shower gel! I will be doing full reviews on all of the products soon!

Visit www.influenster.com to sign up to receive VoxBox’s to review!

Laura Geller Giveaway Winner!

And the winner is…Heather Z!!!

Congrats Heather, you have won the Dream Creams Concealer and Highlighter Palette in Regular/Tan and Ombre Baked Blush in Peach Blossom (w/o the brush). I have sent you an email requesting your address.

For my other fab readers, there will be more giveaways to come! I am looking forward to receiving and sharing some wonderful fall makeup — so keep reading!

Have a great week!

Announcing a Laura Geller Cosmetics GIVEAWAY!!!

Announcing my fab Laura Geller Giveaway. I am giving away two products — the Dream Creams Concealer and Highlighter Palette in Regular/Tan and Ombre Baked Blush in Peach Blossom (w/o the brush).

Here are the descriptions of each product:

Laura Geller Dream Creams Concealer & Highlighter ($26.36 USD) — This palette features three stripes of buildable concealers that blur away dark under-eye circles, blemishes, and uneven skin tone, plus a matching crescent of highlighter to bring out your best features. The vitamin E-enriched formula is fortified with natural emollients that help provide smooth, even coverage.

Laura Geller Ombre Baked Blush with Brush ($29.75 USD with brush) — Featuring cascading strips of luscious color, Ombre Baked Blush is an ingenious palette that lets you sculpt a perfect flush. Choose any of the five stripes for an easy glow, or mix and match shades for a custom-blended blush.

To win, just leave a comment on my blog and I will randomly choose a winner on Monday August 6th.

Good Luck!

CEW and BeautyBar.com Insider’s Choice Box GIVEAWAY Winner!

CEW Insider's Choice Box — CEW Insider’s Choice Box

And the winner is…Lisa L! Congrats Lisa, I have sent you an email asking for your address so that you can receive this cool box of goodies soon!

Thanks to everyone for entering…I am about to send a post for another giveaway! Yay!

Pamper Your Hands and Feet With LCN Nail Care

In the summer, hands and feet are on display. I try to keep my nails polish — but sometimes I forget to take care of the skin around them.

LCN has some great mani-pedi products to prepare your skin for summer exposure.

LCN Urea Chapped Skin Cream ($17.90 USD) — Urea 40 % Chapped Skin Cream containing 40 % urea reduces callusses with the help of fruit acids particularly fast and effectively without leaving an oily film and is supported by calming panthenol and nourishing bees wax and anti-inflammatory sage.

Aside from its main ingredient urea, the cream also contains a special carbohydrate complex and hyaluronic acid which is why it is optimally suited for daily use for stressed and chapped skin.

LCN Bamboo Cuticle Pen ($15.90 USD) — Apply this moisturizing gel to the nail and cuticle daily to achieve strong healthy nails. Containing bamboo extract and shea butter, this is the ultimate natural health treatment for maintaining your cuticles, a key part of healthy, beautiful nails.

LCN 7in1 Wonder Nail Recovery ($11.90 USD) — This innovative top class multi function polish combines 7 properties in one: Base Coat / Top Coat / Wet Look / Quick Dry / Super Hardener / Ridgefiller / Whitener Especially for sensitive, thin and brittle nails, this LCN 7in1 Wonder Nail Recovery strengthens the nail plate and evens out surface irregularities. Like a protective shield, this viscous polish settles on top of the stressed nail and offers a means of recovery for the nail. Nails are shiny and firm and due to the whitener function brightened.Ideal to use as base coat to avoid yellowing of the nail caused by colour polishes as well as ensuring longer durability. Its ridge filling function ensures an even nail structure.For a perfect Wet Look Finish this super fast drying LCN 7in1 Wonder Nail Recovery can be used as a Top Coat sealant.

Purchase at http://store.lcnusa.com

Enjoy!

Last Day to Enter My CEW and BeautyBar.com Insider’s Choice Box GIVEAWAY!

It’s the last day to enter my Insider’s Choice Box giveaway! Leave a comment on my blog if you wish to enter, and I will choose the winner tomorrow, Monday July 30th! Here are the details:

CEW and BeautyBar.com teamed up to create The Insiders’ Choice Beauty Box, which features 11 products selected as the industry’s most innovative picks during the 18th Annual CEW Beauty Insiders’ Choice Awards.

For a limited-time only, these Insider’s Choice Beauty Boxes will be available at www.BeautyBar.com/CEW. The box is valued at $109 and is selling at a specially discounted price of $25, making it a great gift for the beauty lover in your life, a beach party hostess gift (or simply a nice treat for yourself). Also, if you buy two boxes, you’ll get one free with the promo code: BBCEW (for the first 250 customers).

The Insiders’ Choice Beauty Box contains the following products:

· L’Oréal Paris Youth Code Serum Intense

· L’Oréal Paris Voluminous False Fiber Lashes Mascara

· Heidi Klum Shine Eau De Toilette, 0.5 oz.

· StriVectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream, Travel Size

· L’Occitane Lavender Hand Cream-1 oz.

· Burt’s Bees Richly Replenishing Cocoa & Cupuaçu Butters Body Lotion

· Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm-Red Dahlia

· Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Neutralizer

· Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, Travel Size

· Dr. T’s Supergoop! All-Over Everyday UV Lotion for Face & Body – SPF 30+ – 1.6 oz. Travel Size

· Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Color Strips, Animal Instinct-16 count

I will also be announcing a Laura Geller giveway tomorrow — so stay tuned!

Good Luck!

Summertime Hair Survival!

Summer sun and humidity really dries out my hair. So I need to infuse my hair with moisture to make it look good in the heat!

The products below do just that, plus help me style it so it looks its best.

Nourish that summer-dried hair with Klorane Shampoo With Mango Butter ($18 USD, 13.4 oz) Klorane Laboratories have selected mango butter for its high content in fatty acids endowed with nourishing properties. The nourishing shampoo with mango butter from Klorane nourishes and restructures the hair shaft, closes up hair cuticles and fills in the cracks of the surface hydrolipidic film to protect it from dehydration. A nourishing care for reinforced anti hair dryness action. Hypoallergenic*.

I also have tried Klorane Conditioner With Mango Butter ($14 USD, 5.1 oz) — Mango butter has a high content in fatty acids which nourish the hair shaft and fill in the cracks of the surface hydrolipic film. A specific nourishing agent has also been included in the formula to smooth down hair scales and coat the hair to facilitate untangling. For manageable, easier-to-untangle hair in complete gentleness. Nourished and smooth, you will once again flaunt all their shine and softness. Hypoallergenic.*

What I think: First of all, this smells fantastic, like fresh mangoes. Using both products result in moisturized hair that is super soft to the touch. This system is great for every day if you have extremely dry hair — or once or twice a week for occasional deep moisturization. Learn more at www.kloraneusa.com.

White Sands Orchid Bliss Shampoo and Conditioner

White Sands is proud to announce the addition of Orchid Bliss Shampoo & Conditioner (9.5oz Shampoo, $19.50 & 9.5oz Conditioner, $20.50) to their current line of superior salon hair cleansing products. Encompassing a one of a kind concept, Orchid Bliss utilizes the anti-aging characteristics and mineral richness of the orchid flower to support color retention with a sulfate-free formula while providing strand revitalization and cuticle nutrition all in one.

Orchids, known for their moisturizing properties, fight free radicals, increase hair immunity and reduce the appearance of strand imperfections. Enhanced by the duo’s fresh citrus scent, the orchid extract contained in Orchid Bliss Shampoo & Conditioner in addition to natural ingredients like sunflower seed extract, grape seed oil, carrot seed, olive extract, apricot kernel & more restore back the moisture, shine, elasticity and softness to hair that has been damaged from chemical treatments, thermal stress and daily UV exposure. This orchid complex will instantly fill in the cracks and imperfections in each strand giving a high shine, making hair simply brilliant with UV protection in addition to effortlessly working in conjunction with other styling products to improve texture, repel moisture, while enhancing vibrant color.

What I think: This lovely system is natural and gentle and can be used daily to restore hair from colorings and styling tools — and the harsh summer elements! It has a beautiful floral scent. Learn more at www.whitesandsproducts.com.

New aveda pure abundance style-prep infuses hair with all-day weightless volume that feels naturally yours. Thickens strands with a 97% naturally-derived botanical blend, and boosts volume with a natural corn-derived polymer. Give fine, limp strands the hold they need for body that lasts all day.

Build body and volume with aveda’s pure abundance system. While naturally-derived thickeners help your hair reach its full potential, aromas of jasmine, certified organic peppermint, palmarosa and ylang ylang play to the senses.

Start with pure abundance volumizing shampoo ($16 USD) and volumizing clay conditioner ($16 USD). Prep hair for weightless volumizing with style-prep ($24 USD). Finish with hair potion™ ($24 USD) and volumizing hair spray™ ($17 USD) for texture and firm hold.

What I think: I love this whole collection. Used together, I have seen a noticeable increase in the volume of my hair. I use the style-prep by spraying on damp hair and also when my hair is dry and needs a bit of restyling. The hair potion is also a cool product in that it is a moist powder that you rub in your hand to liquify it, then run it through your hair to immediately increase the volume. Purchase at www.aveda.com

To tame frizzies, invest in double-duty Cricket Ultra Smooth Comb. Infused with a blend of Argan & Olive Oils and Keratin protein, this comb reduces frizz and makes hair soft and smooth sans styling sprays or serums.

Features of each comb are:

A blend of argan and olive oils, plus keratin protein infused plastic
Glides through hair easily
Ergonomically designed
Helps add shine and smoothness
Reduces frizz
Will not leave residue on hands

What I think: These combs are like magic. I have been wearing my hair in a ponytail, braid or bun all summer, and if it get messy, I take it out and comb it with one of these combs and it is instantly smoother! My hair is shinier and sans frizz! Awesome! Purchase at www.cricketco.com ($6.49/comb)

Crush by One 1 in Ceramic Flat Iron ($80 USD 1″, $30 USD mini ) — The Crush Flat Irons (available in 1” or as a Mini) have floating beveled plates that provide ultimate control during styling. Wide temperature ranges make them ideal for any hair type, while the dual voltage make them travel must-haves.

What I think: I really like the temperature range on this. My hair is fairly thin and I don’t need it too hot, but my daughter has insanely thick hair that needs a lot of heat. It is great that we can both use the same straightener. It also helps with summer frizzies — just use a nice heat styling product with it to prevent damage. Learn more at www.onestyiling.com

Enjoy!

It Cosmetics Today’s Special Value on QVC 7/27/12

Starting at Midnight EST on July 27, 2012, This fab kit by It Cosmetics will be QVC’s Today’s Special Value. It is called the Hello Beautiful! Vitality Anti-Aging 5 Pc Color Collection. It is a $212 value and it will be on sale for $59.94. Such a good value for some of my favorite products.

The collection contains:

New—Super-size 1 oz. Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Vitamin K & Collagen Concealer—4 shades available ($72 value)
Heavenly Luxe Dual Airbrush Concealer/Foundation Brush ($48 value)
New—Live, Love, Laugh, Vitality Anti-Aging Brightening Face Disc with Blush Stain & Drops of Light Luminizer ($38 value
Heavenly Luxe Ultra-Plush Jumbo Powder Brush ($58 value)
Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Lipstick Stain in Je Ne Sais Quoi—sheer pink ($20 value)

Bye Bye Under Eye is my absolutely favorite concealer because it covers so well. With the lovely dual brush, you can blend it all over the face as a foundation.

I received the face disc last year, and the highlighter was darker and the blush wasn’t as bright. The new disc is gorgeous. The blush and highlighter are shimmery and so brightening on the skin. The bronzer is matte so it is perfect to contour the face. And the huge brush is so soft and perfect for applying the face disc.

And I LOVE the lip flush! It looks clear in the tube, but applies a medium bright pink — so healthy-looking! But watch out in the heat. Mine melted a little in my warm bathroom.

Watch QVC starting at midnight or visit www.qvc.com to learn more and purchase.

Enjoy!

Flawless Skin — My New Summer Skin Care And Makeup Products

My skin is looking pretty great this summer. It is super hot in Kansas City right now, so my skin should be gross and oily, but the fabulous new products I have been using have made it clear, smooth and very youthful!

Freeze 24-7 Skin Glacé™ Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask ($65 USD) — Nothing beats a clean feeling, from having a tidy pantry to a neat desk. Now your skin can experience that kind of calming clean with Freeze 24-7 Skin Glace Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask, a gentle deep cleaning formula that provides maximum skin purification, detoxification and hydration. With daily use, you can effectively unclog pores, remove excess oil, make-up and impurities, leaving your skin visibly soft, supple and healthy. Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask replenishes your skin’s natural moisture balance while calming red, irritated skin. Plus, it serves as a great shaving cream for men and women.

What I think: I love the fresh scent of this cleanser and how clean it makes my skin feel after use. It can also work as a quick mask for even deeper cleansing. I just apply it, let it foam up, then rub it in and rinse. Easy, fun and my skin looks clear and soft after use! Visit www.freeze247.com to learn more and purchase!

Skinnygirl Vitamin C Face Scrub ($6.99 USD) — Wash away dull, tired skin with this invigorating face scrub that instantly makes skin feel refreshed and smooth. The combination of shea butter and cranberry cleanses away dead skin to unveil a brighter, naturally radiant you.

Key Ingredients:

Soybean Oil – Rehydrates and improves skin texture
Grape Seed Oil – Moisturizes, tightens, tones, and rejuvenates skin while protecting against collagen destruction
Cranberry Fruit Extract – Soothes skin and is a natural vitamin c source to help improve circulation
Shea Butter – Deeply hydrating moisturizer

What I think: This is an unusal scrub in that the beads melt away and what’s left is an oil, so you really need to rinse it off completely. I am used to scrubs making my skin feel super clean, and this makes it feel like it was moisturized instead. That is weird, but when I looked in the mirror after use, my skin looked amazing. Really clear and smooth. This is worth a try, but is maybe not for those with very oily skin. Learn more at http://skinnygirlfaceandbody.com.

Freeze 24-7 Eye Serum ($115 USD) — Banish crow’s feet, dark circles and puffiness associated with allergies and other environmental conditions. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles beneath and around the eye area within minutes of application by bringing oxygen and nutrients to the area. Causes a cooling, toning sensation; indicating that the serum is working.

What I think: I love this serum. It is a little pricey, but it is so good. After I apply this light serum, it instantly smooths my eye area leaving it hydrated and makes my fine lines virtually disappear! It is very cooling and refreshing on the eyes, especially great for these hot summer days. Plus, the more I use it, the better my eyes look. Awesome! Visit www.freeze247.com to learn more.

Nuance Salma Hayek Smooth Smart Skin Primer ($10.99 USD) — Smooth start. Helps diminish the appearance of pores and fine lines and enhance makeup wear. Inspired by my grandmother, my products are designed to help every woman enhance the nuances that define her individual beauty. – Salma. Smooth start skin primer. White lupin seeds & safflower seed oil help improve skin’s firmness and elasticity. Pumpkin seedcake nourishes and delivers improved radiance. Soft-light diffusion technology helps create a healthy glow. Vitamin E nourishes and protects the skin. Paraben free. Fragrance free. Made in USA.

What I think: This is a good primer if you like a bit of a glow to your skin. Skin is very smooth and ready for makeup after use. Or, just wear it alone — it’s quick and easy to apply and you’re out the door! Purchase at a CVS pharmacy near you or visit www.cvs.com.

TIGI Cosmetics Mineral Tint Moisturizer ($30 USD) Wearing foundation in soaring temperatures can be a total drag. This oil-free, water-resistant tinted moisturizer is the perfect light-weight alternative for the season. Added bonus: It’s formulated with a hint of shimmer and SPF 20 so you can get that sun-kissed glow sans the rays.

What I think: Gorgeous! And perfectly matches my currently faux-tanned skin! It almost melts into my skin, and gives me such a flawless look. This can be worn with our without primer. Smooth it over skin and go! Please visit www.tigiprofessional.com to find a local salon.

Nuance Salma Hayek Flawless Mineral Cheek Trio ($12.99 USD) Triple-milled pigments in this three-in-one conditioning blush shape, highlight and define for an extra smooth, velvety finish and endless, customized looks.

What I think: This is a beautiful compact. You can color, highlight and define cheeks and all over the face. I like to brush a little of the bronzer under my jaw and under cheekbones to define. The highlighter goes on top of my cheekbones and on my brow bone. Purchase at a CVS pharmacy near you or visit www.cvs.com.

Enjoy!