Try a New Hairstyle This Spring!

Spring is here!  It is warmer (in some places) and our daffodils are blooming, so it’s time to make fashion and beauty changes!

I’ve been sick for the past week and have been wearing my hair in a bun, but as I start to feel better, I want to try a new style and new products to change up my look!

Here are great new products and ideas to change up your look! Enjoy!

From the Lab Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724
From the Lab Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724

From the Lab Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724 ($29.95, the monthly  subscription box price) — Ditch the sudsy shampoos that contain harsh sulfates that strip hair of nutrients and protectants and revamp your locks with a unique blend of oils and patented raspberry stem cell technology. This product will take your hair to a new level of shine and softness with castor seed oil, sweet almond oil and berryflux vita.

There is no hair-type too straight or too curly to reap the benefits of this innovative shampoo! Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724 enhances thin, damaged hair by strengthening and promoting new hair growth, while curly and coarse hair is left weightless and tamed through the use of andiroba oil, an ingredient brand new to the U.S.

Once No. 724 gets into the hands of big beauty companies, this product is predicted to retail at upwards of $60 a bottle, but From the Lab is offering this revolutionary product for less than half the cost at $29.95!

Learn more at http://www.fromthelab.com

Alterna Hair Care CC Cream
Alterna Hair Care CC Cream

Alterna Hair Care CC Cream  ($25 USD) — A miracle leave-in product that delivers 10 benefits in 1 easy step, leaving hair perfectly polished. Provides complete: moisture, shine, smoothness, softness, UV protection, manageability, strength, anti-breakage, heat protection and light hold. Can be used alone or as a foundation for the layering of other styling products.

Purchase at http://www.alternahaircare.com

The New Braiding Handbook
The New Braiding Handbook

The New Braiding Handbook by Abby Smith ($12.95 USD for paperback) a full-color guide that will help you master the trendiest twists, fishtails and updos.

Hair braiding is getting hotter by the day, and the evolution of styles has grown just as rapidly. The New Braiding Handbook offers you an impressive array of easy-to-re-create, beautiful, and versatile looks that are as appropriate for elegant formal events as they are practical for casual, everyday wear. With step-by-step photos and detailed instructions for creating trendy knots, chic twists, and playful plaits, The New Braiding Handbook teaches imaginative and intricate hair styling like you’ve never seen before. Fifty looks to choose from guarantee a braid for every occasion (or no occasion at all). Along with amazing styles and easy-to-follow tutorials, there are also tons of tips for eliminating split ends, bulking up limp locks, growing out a short ’do, and getting a full, healthy, shiny head of hair straight from the pages of a magazine.

Available on http://www.amazon.com

Conair Adjust a Curl Rollers
Conair Adjust a Curl Rollers

Get soft natural looking waves with Conair AdjustaCurl ($7.99 USD).  These self gripping rollers can adjust to any size to achieve the optimum lose wave or tightest curl in minutes!

Conair’s adjust a curl is like no other roller you’ve ever had before and it’s the last roller you’ll ever have to buy. Adjust a curl lets you create any size curls, lift and volume with one roller. It starts out flat and rolls to the size you want, quickly and easily. Create volume in minutes or add bouncy curls. Roll into a root volumizer to add volume to straight styles, or roll into standard round rollers to create classic curls and waves or slightly curvy styles. With tourmaline’s ionic technology to reduce static electricity, the end result is shiny, silky beautiful hair. And the flat design stacks to store for ultimate portability. Adjust a curl travel with you without taking up valuable luggage space and don’t need electricity. Simple and easy to use beauty technology for your best look. Contains 4 adjust a curl rollers.

Purchase at mass market retailers or http://www.amazon.com

Scunci Effortless Beauty Headwraps
Scunci Effortless Beauty Headwraps

Scunci Effortless Beauty Headwraps  ($4.19 USD) — A thick classic headband can give any style the extra something it’s missing.  Add pizzazz to a bun with a colorful one, or look polished with classic gray, black or white.  Add a colorful pattern for spring! Scunci Effortless Beauty Headwraps make this look possible!

Available at Walmart and other mass market retailers.

How are you wearing your hair these days?  Leave a comment and let me know!

 

Emilie M. and e.l.f. Cosmetics Spring 2014 Collaboration

“Beauty and fashion go hand in hand and we’re excited to partner with E.L.F. Cosmetics on this really exciting campaign that puts our two brands together and offers a lot of wonderful prizes to both of our audiences,” said Solomon Hedaya, Founder of Emilie M.

Emilie M. recently announced that it will be running a spring giveaway with e.l.f. cosmetics. The program will offer five grand prizes (1 per day) of an Emilie M. Essentials Box ($165), Emilie M. handbag of choice (up to $100), e.l.f. gift set ($75-$100) and $50 e.l.f. gift card. (The total value of this prize is more than $400.) The contest also will offer 50 second-place prizes (10 per day) of a $25 e.l.f. gift card and a $25 Emilie M. gift card. The contest will be active from April 14-18. To enter please visit either www.eyeslipsface.com or www.emiliemshop.com for details.

Investment pieces without the investment, the entire Emilie M. line of handbags is classic in design—featuring timeless silhouettes, soft and rich animal-friendly materials and multi-organizational function for under $90. Top trends in the collection for holiday 2013 include colored exotic skins, two-tone colorblocking and structured purse shapes made attainable for the everyday woman. To find out more about the Emilie M. collection for Spring  2014, please go to www.emiliemshop.com.
e.l.f. cosmetics is the premier retail source for all makeup and beauty needs. It’s products offer affordable and high quality design to enhance natural radiance. e.l.f. offers an entire line of luscious lip glosses, with various shades and styles to choose from, as well as intensive hydrating lipstick for long-lasting color and shine. Its natural mineral makeup supports healthier glowing skin, without parabens, preservatives or chemical dyes.
I’m a big fan of e.l.f. cosmetics because they are great quality at such an affordable price.  And, I am hoping to review an Emilie M. handbag soon, they are really stylish and affordable.  Have you tried either of these brands?  Leave a comment and let me know!

Spring Beauty — From the Inside Out!

I just realized that more of my skin will be showing in short sleeves and short pants soon — not to mention swimsuits!  Time to get ready for spring and summer by eating and drinking healthier and taking care of our skin.

Below are some great ideas of products that can help you look and feel your best as the days get longer and warmer!

Stur flavor enhancer
Stur flavor enhancer

We have all heard the importance of drinking water and why it’s good for us. For some – drinking water has become more of a chore than a natural instinct and many find water to be boring or do not enjoy the taste. Stur, a liquid water enhancer, is the newest and most delicious way to hit those 8 glasses of water a day. It is an all-natural product that is made with Stevia and 100% Vitamin C and comes in a variety of flavors such as Only Orange Mango, Freshly Fruit Punch, Simply Strawberry Watermelon, and Purely Pomegranate Cranberry.

Learn more at http://www.sturdrinks.com and you can purchase them for Amazon.

The Beauty Detox Foods
The Beauty Detox Foods

The Beauty Detox Foods Book by Kimberly Snyder —  Dreading pulling that bikini out of the depths of your closet? Try incorporating a few easy recipes from Kimberly Snyder’s The Beauty Detox Foods. This book will help give step by step instruction on how to better your health in a natural way – recipes include everything from her famous Glowing Green Smoothie to her favorite dinner entrée.

Learn more at http://www.kimberlysnyder.net

 

The polar vortex is gone and spring break season has officially sprung! To make sure you enjoy your fun in the sun, check out the newest products from Hawaiian Tropic® that will keep skin protected and feeling luxurious.  These smell and feel fantastic:

  • Hawaiian Tropic® Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen ($8.99 USD), their first sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection UVA and UVB protection, softens and leaves skin with a radiant shine.
  • Hawaiian Tropic® SPF 30 Dry Oil Clear Spray Sunscreen ($8.99 USD), contains indulgent oils and vitamins that will keep skin ultra-soft and moisturized while offering moderate protection in an easy-to-use format.
  • Hawaiian Tropic® Silk Hydration SPF 30 Face Lotion Sunscreen ($8.99 USD), a facial sunscreen which provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and contains hydrating ribbons that provide 12 hours of skin moisturization, without clogging pores.

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you!

Don’t forget to take care of your skin this spring.  Try some of these great skincare items that will help your skin to look fabulous:

Prep your skin to get glowing with Radical Skincare’s Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads ($75 USD) – while these pads are ideal for sweeping away dull winter skin on your face, they can also be used all over, like on dry elbows and knees. They’re a great multitasker for achieving spring smoothness.  Purchase at http://www.radicalskincare.com.

Brighten skin with Burt’s Bees Even Tone Brightening Cream ($20 USD) to get a glowing complexion. Enriched with Daisy Extract, this moisturizer should be a staple in your beauty cabinet. Keep it around for post-summer too, to combat dark spots. Purchase at http://www.burtsbees.com.

— Infused with African Kola Nut, Trichilia Oil, Chamomile Oil, and the Miracle Oil, Marula, to help revitalize and hydrate the eye area. While providing superb antioxidant benefits and helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, this unique multi-tasking fusion also soothes, tones and helps restore, nourish and protect the eye area.  Purchase at http://www.nyakio.com/store/.

I hope I gave you some great product ideas for getting ready for the warmer weather ahead.  Enjoy!

Glam Up Your Everyday Look!

Smoky eyes, flawless skin and sexy lips (and sparkly nails!) are still going strong this Spring.  I love this look and have been wearing a stronger eye lately and black eye liner.

There are many gorgeous products in all price ranges to achieve the perfect Spring look.  Below are products that I were sent for my honest review.

A smoky eye is always popular!  The above products from Physician’s Formula is an affordable way to get a great smoky eye!  The products are:

Sexy Booster™ Va Va Voom Volume Mascara ($9.95 USD) — 24 Hour Wear. Voluptuous Volume. luscious Length. Gorgeous Curves. Sexy-Boosting Formula. High-Performance Wear. Va Va Voom Volume Brush. This gives really great separation and volume!

Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Shadow & Liner Nude Collection – ($11.95 USD) — Modern and versatile palettes for a new twist on classic nude shades. Neutral, metallic shades create a nude look that is soft & sultry. Wet & Dry application for two finishes: wet for dramatic, intense color with ultra long-lasting wear. Transforms shadow into a liner. Dry for a softer result. Available in 4 palettes, the one above is Smoky Nude Eyes.

Sexy Booster™ Ooh La La Sexy Eyes Trio ($12.95 USD) — Up to 24 Hour Wear. Perfect Threesome for Sexy Eyes. Sexy-Boosting Formula. – Create a Sexy Eye: 1. Apply Felt-Tip Eyeliner to upper lid starting from the inner corner and extend to the outer corner to make a winged, cat eye. Gently shake before use. Do not store pen tip-side down. 2. Apply Kohl Kajal Eyeliner in the upper and lower eye rim for dramatic definition. 3. Apply the Eyeliner Pencil on the lower lash line for softer definition.  I also like to use the Kohl alone for a subtle smoky look.

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

Ramy Perfect Brow Wand ($28 USD) —  Finally! A waterproof double duty gel pen, the Perfect Brow Wand takes eyebrow perfection to the next level by combining a universally flattering eyebrow filler and pure highlighter in one easy to use wand. The brow filler works on ANY hair color, from pale blonde, silver or red to medium brown or black. The Highlighter end is colorless and adds pure light to emphasize your arches or wake up tired eyes!

Ramy Eye Shadow ($17 USD) — combines a long wearing, light reflective formula resulting in beautiful transforming shades that blend effortlessly and last! Theses eyeshadows are the result of public demand, asking Ramy to add new powder shadows to the brand and he finally did it! Combine these gorgeous shades to play up your eyes for Maximum Impact!  I have Lucky Penny, a gorgeous deep copper.  This can be used for a modern smoky eye or as a liner.

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

Hard Candy Sheer Envy Shine Free Primer ($8 USD) —  A lightweight, shine reducing formula that prevents oil buildup while creating a smooth surface for even makeup application.  Fab primer at an affordable price!

Hard Candy Ombre Lipstick ($6 USD) — Effortlessly achieve an instant gradation effect for ombre lips with one sweep! Two complementary shades in one lipstick now makes it easier than ever to add definition and fullness to lips. Sweep on the lipstick to your upper lips as the darker shade faces up, and sweep onto your lower lips as the darker shade faces down and Voilà!  I have this in a light nude/pink combo called Faithful.  Gorgeous and really fun!

Available at Walmart stores.

Butter London the Cut Up Collection
Butter London the Cut Up Collection

Butter London the Cut Up Collection ($15 Each) — Three different glitter topcoats.  The shades are:

Anorak: Black, white and silver chunky glitter overcoat suspended in a clear base

Dust-Up: Gold, silver and bronze chunky & fine glitter overcoat suspended in a clear base

Titchy: Multi-colour chunky and fine glitter overcoat suspended in a clear base

Available at butterlondon.com

Prep Your Skin For The Warmer Months Ahead!

Is your skin looking good for Spring?  Is it ready for lighter, brighter makeup, self-tanners and the lot?  Time to use great products with healthy ingredients to get your skin in shape!

I have been testing the products below and love what they are doing for my skin!

Cle de Peau Makeup Remover Sheets
Cle de Peau Makeup Remover Sheets

Cle de Peau Makeup Remover Sheets ($38 USD) — Effectively lifts away hard-to-remove eye makeup while pampering delicate eye area skin with the feeling of a luxurious silk.

What I think: These are the fanciest makeup wipes I have ever used.  I love the soft scent and the fact that they remove my waterproof eye makeup without irritating my skin or eyes.  LOVE!

Available at www.barneys.com and www.neimanmarcus.com

Pixi Glow Tonic
Pixi Glow Tonic

Pixi Glow Tonic ($29 USD) — Exfoliating facial glow tonic. It helps tone, firm and tighten the skin. It removes dead skin cells for healthier looking skin. For normal to dry, aging and sensitive skin. Alcohol free.

What I think: First of all, this smells amazing!  It is a light floral and so good.  After application, my skin is firmer and feels really soft.  I like using it morning and night and love that it’s alcohol free.

www.pixibeauty.com

Algenist Algae Brightening Mask
Algenist Algae Brightening Mask

Algenist Algae Brightening Mask ($59 USD) — The Algae Brightening Mask is a skincare powerhouse that harnesses the power of Algae to instantly smooth and brighten skin. This luxurious mask combines six different sources of algae with Alguronic Acid, Algenist’s patented ingredient which helps rejuvenate the skin for a more youthful appearance.  After use, skin feels clean and detoxified with a boosted radiance, tone and texture. Within just 10 days of use those pesky pores are refined and fine lines appear softened.

What I think: I have used this mask once, and really like the results.  My skin was firmer and my pores look reduced.  I am going to try it a few more times and hope to get even better results!

Available at www.algenist.com, QVC, Sephora and Sephora.com

illuMask™ Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask
illuMask™ Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask

illuMask™ Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask ($30 USD) — The illuMask™ Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask uses gentle red and infrared light wavelengths and uniformly distributes the light over the entire face for a short 15 minutes a day. Containing 30 treatments in one convenient, lightweight mask, the Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask is an ultra-affordable step in your skincare routine that delivers clinically proven results. Safe for all skin types and tones, the gentle treatment does not emit any damaging UV rays. Clinical results showed illuMask™ Anti-Aging Phototherapy Mask to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in as little as two weeks.

What I think:  I have tried this once and have a hard time leaving it on my face for 15 minutes, I can’t see out of it and there is a fairly bright light.  I didn’t see any results so I will try it again a few times to see if it helps my wrinkles.

Where to buy: February 2014 at Walmart, Ulta, Target, Walgreens, or via www.illuMask.com

beautyblender® Royal
beautyblender® Royal

 

Beautyblender® Royal ($19.95 USD)– A makeup sponge applicator in royal purple, the it color of 2014. Beautyblender® is the first ergonomically designed non-disposable sponge applicator that allows you to flawlessly apply your makeup. It’s designed to be cleaned with its partner blendercleanser®—making it super eco-friendly. It comes with an instructional pamphlet so you can quickly master your application technique.

When wet, beautyblender doubles in size and becomes even softer, returning to its original size when it air dries. Its package can serve as a pedestal for drying it on your vanity. Not only is the smaller end the best applicator for concealer under the eyes and around the nose, but it’s also ideal for achieving dramatic results with your eye shadow. Feel free to use the beautyblender with all types of makeup, including loose powder and mineral cosmetics.

What I think:  I love the beautyblender.  It is a perfect way to apply primers, bb creams, concealers, foundations…anything you use!  I like to use mine dry, but many love to use it wet to soften the look of foundation.  Any way you use it, your skin looks flawless and you can layer on your color cosmetics.

Www.sephora.com Beautyblender Royal retails for $19.95 at Sephora stores nationwide and Sephora.com

Korres Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Primer
Korres Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Primer

Korres Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Primer ($30 USD) –is a skin-perfecting and silicone-free face primer enriched with ultra nourishing Greek yogurt for the smoothest makeup application and long-lasting wear. Paraben and Sulfate free, this primer helps makeup stay put longer by smoothing the surface of the skin.

Recommended for all skin types and ideal for sensitive skin, this incredibly nourishing primer is powered by a Greek yogurt concentrate with two and a half times the protein of regular yogurt. This super-protein is blended into a breathable gel texture that glides onto skin leaving a dewy finish, leaving skin with a perfectly soft, even canvas for the smoothest makeup application and long-lasting wear.

What I think:  This is a very creamy primer, very different the normal silicone primer.  It does smooth my skin and allow foundation to be applied very smoothly.  I like that this is paraben and sulfate-free.

Purchase at www.sephora.com

 

What new products are you loving for your skin?

Fragrances And Bath Products to Transition to Spring

Spring is almost here!  Time to put heavy fragrances away and to take care of your skin!

Below are some great fragrance and bath products that will get you ready for spring.  Exotic fragrances, a soothing bath soak, shaving oil and mango bath products will update your beauty cabinets for the new, warmer season ahead!

Lavanila Vanilla Coconut
Lavanila Vanilla Coconut

Lavanila Vanilla Coconut ($58 1.7 oz) — This exotic blend of young coconut, Tahitian tiare flower, and warm Madagascar vanilla is created by master natural perfumers who use only the finest pure essential oils. Carefree and tropical, escape to the island of healthy delights.

What I think: This scent makes me think of summer and warm, tropical breezes.  I love Lavanila, because the fragrances are natural and they smell fantastic!

Available at www.lavanila.com

Beyonce Rise Perfume
Beyonce Rise Perfume

RISE Beyoncé ($44.00 1.7 fl. oz.) To create this exciting new scent Beyoncé partnered with Loc Dong, a perfumer at IFF, to design a melodic mélange of accords that leave a lasting impression. RISE is a rich and intoxicating luminous floral with beautiful top notes of Italian Bergamot, Golden Apricot and Iced Basil Sorbet; Luscious middle notes of Gold Symphony Orchid, Freesia Blossom and Natural Jasmine Sambac and sensual bottom notes that include Autumn Woods Accord, Cashmere Musk and Vetiver Extract.

Gold is also featured prominently in the RISE bottle designed by Ken Hirst. The gold juice is encased in a tall, elegant glass bottle that emulates the trajectory of Beyoncé’s ability, and will, to rise above it all.

What I think — loving this new one by Beyoncé.  This is fresh and floral, perfect for spring and the hot summer months.

Available at mass market retailers.

 

güd by Burt’s Bees Mango Moonbreeze Collection
güd by Burt’s Bees Mango Moonbreeze Collection

güd by Burt’s Bees Mango Moonbreeze Collection ($6.99 each product) –Think tropical island getaway on a moonlit starry night. This amazing new collection is available in shampoo, conditioner, body lotion and body wash. Infused with all natural ingredients including lemon, bergamot, and plum, these products will help you fight dry hair and skin from head to toe with a burst of much-needed moisture.

What I think: I am a big mango fan, so these products were right up my alley!  I love coordinating products, hair and bath that use the same fragrance.  And these are natural and so good for my skin and hair!  Affordable, too.

Available at Target stores and Target.com

Mio Liquid Yoga
Mio Liquid Yoga

Mio Liquid Yoga ($40): A perfect-milky moisturizing blend of essential oils, mineral salts (including EPSOM salts!) and therapeutic herbs. Liquid Yoga is your personal masseuse in a bottle; helping with muscle fatigue, relaxing tight, stressed shoulders and soothing tired, achy bodies whilst detoxifying and re-energizing. Non-foaming, SLS free.

What I think: Have you been working out?  Or just working (job, being a mom, etc…)?  This soak makes sore muscles feel so much better!  It has a nice herbal scent and totally relaxes me.  I highly recommend this product if you love baths like I do!

Purchase at mioskincare.com/shop-mio/liquid-yoga

Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women
Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women

Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women ($6.99 USD) — Packaged in a tiny bullet-shaped container, one 15ml bottle yields up to a month of shaves! Just four to five drops per leg enables women to get a close, smooth shave without nicks, cuts or razor burn. Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women is formulated with a proprietary blend of organic essential oils such as Lavender, Tea Tree and Rosemary, which help to create a lubricating barrier between the skin and the razor, providing more glide for a truly comfortable shave.

What I think:  I think this is such a unique idea, a shaving oil.  It works well, after you get use to not having foam or a cream.  Make sure that you use enough, because it is a thin oil.

Somersets Shaving Oils for Women are available online at www.somersetsusa.com and www.drugstore.com as well as select food/drug stores nationwide.

Enjoy the new season!

Is Your Hair Ready For Spring?

I have been wearing my hair in buns and ponytails so much lately.  It’s so easy to do in the dark, cold, winter days.

But we had a beautiful day today!  It was 72 degrees in Kansas City.  I didn’t even wear a coat.  The nice weather makes me want to change-up my whole look, including my dry, dull hair.  I need some help, and the following products are awesome for making my winter hair look fresh!

TRESemmé 7 Day Keratin Smooth Collection
TRESemmé 7 Day Keratin Smooth Collection

TRESemmé 7 DAY KERATIN SMOOTH SYSTEM — Enjoy salon-gorgeous, frizz-resistant hair that lasts!  Introducing NEW TRESemmé 7 Day Keratin Smooth, a non-damaging hair care system that helps create smooth, frizz-free styles, that last for up to 7 days*!  Made with the revolutionary Thermal Technology, combined with conditioning and strengthening polymers, TRESemmé 7 Day Keratin Smooth is the brand’s first heat-activated smoothing treatment that works with the heat of your flat iron to transform unruly hair and lock in your style between washes. Reap the benefits, which include post-wash durability, smoothness, humidity resistance and convenient re-styling between washes.

What I think — I have tried the system once.  I followed the directions, which is basically wash, condition, use the treatment, blow dry then straighten hair.  My hair usually gets so frizzy when I blow dry (I usually air dry).  This helped a little bit, but I want to try it again to see if I really notice a difference.  The system is affordable, which is a plus.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Philip B. Maui Wowie Volumizing & Thickening Beach Mist
Philip B. Maui Wowie Volumizing & Thickening Beach Mist

Philip B. Maui Wowie Volumizing & Thickening Beach Mist ($22 USD)This must-have mist is a lightweight styling product that infuses your hair with body and brings out its natural wave. Maui Wowie keeps your hair looking fresh, effortless, and sophisticated, especially when the weather turns sticky.  Perfect for all your spring break travel!

What I think:  LOVE this spray!  This light spray with a lovely light scent is perfect for everyday use.  I use it after I shower.  I like to air dry my hair and this helps give my slightly wavy hair lots of beachy waves.  if I spray on damp hair and put in a bun, when my hair dries, it looks very glamorous.  And spraying it on dry hair refreshes my waves.

Available at www.Philipb.com

John Frieda Volume Curls 1 1/2” Curling Iron
John Frieda Volume Curls 1 1/2” Curling Iron

John Frieda Volume Curls 1 1/2” Curling Iron ($32.99 USD) – This curling iron is engineered with Titanium Ceramic Technology and Advanced Ionic Conditioning to seal in moisture and reduce frizz. With 11 digital heat settings offering high heat up to 400°F/205°C, it’s easy to select a safe heat level for your hair type. Designed for quick, easy styling, the Volume Curls curling iron banishes dull, heat damaged locks and ushers in soft, gorgeous hair.

What I think: This is great for curls or soft waves.  And the technology makes my hair so shiny and polished, this is a great tool to use every day.

Where to find it: Ulta, www.ulta.com, CVS, Best Buy and Target

UMBERTO Beverly Hills Dry Texture Spray
UMBERTO Beverly Hills Dry Texture Spray

UMBERTO Beverly Hills Dry Texture Spray ($12.99 USD) —   This unique texture spray can be used on dry hair allowing for maximum volume and style.  Use the Dry Texture on short or long hair for that “just stepped out of the salon” look.

What I think:  This finishing spray creates texture in hair and holds your style.  I like it to create a piecey look.

Purchase at Target and www.target.com

What are you using in your hair for the spring?

 

Punch Up Your Lip Color This Spring

I love changing my lip color a bit with the seasons.  Spring makes me think of softer and brighter colors.  I won’t go too bright, but I do love a good coral, pink and peach!

Below are some lip colors that I have been testing.  All are different but really pretty and will get you ready for Spring!

NYC New York Color Smooch Proof 16HR Lip Stain
NYC New York Color Smooch Proof 16HR Lip Stain

NYC New York Color lets you smooch away without smooching away your lip color with the Smooch Proof 16HR Lip Stain ($4.99 USD). This longwearing lip stain stays put for hours, so you can kiss to your heart’s content.

This lightweight, transfer-proof stain delivers irresistibly smooth, vivid lip color all day long. With its precise felt tipped pen applicator system, lining lips and filling them in requires one easy step for lust-worthy lips that won’t budge.

What I think:  This is a very affordable way to wear the new lip stains markers that are out now.  I have been loving Orange on the Go.  It’s a light, wearable orange that when I wear it alone, it looks like I’ve been eating a pop sickle, or I can put a shimmery gloss over it for a really fresh look.

Available in 13 smooch proof shades at drugstores nationwide

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balms
Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balms
Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balms ($7 USD) For just a hint of color and a whole lot of conditioning. The Botanical  Waxes in these softly tinted balms will take your lips to lovely in one  pretty swipe. They come in a range of 9 naturally flattering shades, 4  of which are new! Blush Orchid, Caramel Daisy, Petunia and Sweet Violet.
What I think:  LOVE!  I have been wearing this every day in Petunia, a nude pink.  It is so easy to swipe on and it looks more polished than a clear lip balm.  And it is so moisturizing!
Available at mass market retailers and http://www.burtsbees.com
Jane Iredale Puremoist Lipstick
Jane Iredale Puremoist Lipstick
Jane Iredale Puremoist Lipstick ($25 USD) — Vivid pigments blend with nourishing natural oils and superfruit extracts for petal‐soft lips that feel, look and taste amazing.Ripe, juicy colors saturate the lips with 24 versatile shades that dress the lips with high‐impact color and sumptuous depth. The continuously creamy, rich and smooth formula glides on easily for long‐lasting color. The sleek tube is designed for easy and precise application.

What I think:  The color I have been testing is Rikki.  It is described as a bubble gum pink, but I think it’s more of a pretty rose.  This is perfect when I want to go one step further than a colored balm.  It is sheer, but so pretty! Perfect for work and the weekend because it lasts a few hours before needing to reapply!

shop.janeiredale.com

Face Stockholm Lipstick in Toffee
Face Stockholm Lipstick in Toffee

Face Stockholm Lipstick in Toffee ($22 USD) — Available in three formulas — traditional Creams for a rich creamy coverage, classic Mattes for color-saturation with no shine and subtle Veils for a sheer wash of moisturizing color.

What I think:  Toffee is a cream and it goes on smooth and covers really well.  This color is so perfect for spring.  It is soft, but does give a pretty pop of coral.

 

Are you trying a new lip color this spring?  What are you loving?

March 10th Only! QVC Today’s Special Value — IT Cosmetics CC Your Way to Beauty Skin!

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This collection, which will be offered on QVC® as the Today’s Special Value® Monday, March 10, 2014, features several must-have IT Cosmetics® products to help you discover your most beautiful self this spring! QVC features one item each day as a Today’s Special Value, which is offered at an exceptionally low price that is valid from midnight until 2:59 AM ET the following day, while supplies last.

The collection includes CC+™ Lip Serum Hydrating Anti-Aging Color Correcting Crème Gloss, Tightline™ Waterproof Mascara Primer, Supersize Your Skin But Better CC+™ Cream with SPF 50+, and Heavenly Luxe® Plush Paddle Foundation Brush. Products developed with plastic surgeons and infused with amazing ingredients, it’s truly a multi-tasking miracle!

First, start your routine off right with Your Skin But Better CC+ ™ Cream with SPF 50+. Using the Heavenly Luxe™ Plush Paddle Foundation Brush, apply a smooth, even layer to clean skin or on top of moisturizer. This CC Cream combines several products in one step, including SPF 50+ UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum, Physical Only, Non-Chemical Sunscreen.  This is the SUPERSIZE Your Skin But Better CC+ ™ Cream with SPF 50+; at 2.53 FL oz, it more than twice the size of the original CC+ Cream!  Be sure to blend this multi-tasking cream all over the face, neck and décolleté to provide the look of an even, hydrating, luminous finish.

Next, prep and prime the eyelashes with a waterproof mascara primer that lasts 12 hours! Lightly and gently press the Tightline™ Waterproof Mascara Primer wand along the root of the lash line to fill in the gaps between the lashes to achieve the look of full volume and definition. Move along the entire upper lash line for a beautiful and natural liner effect for lashes that appear longer and fuller.

Lastly, finish off your look with hydrating vitality! Glide ultra-conditioning CC+™ Lip Serum Hydrating Anti-Aging Color Correcting Crème Gloss in the Love shade over the lips for instant color correction and a lip tone that appears even. It can be worn day or night for improved hydration and a pretty flush of color that lasts!

The IT Cosmetics® CC Your Way to Beautiful Skin four-piece Collection will be a Today’s Special Value on QVC. It will be offered at the exceptionally low price of $58.98, while supplies last, for ONE DAY ONLY on QVC, the QVC apps and www.QVC.com on March 10, 2014 from midnight to 2:59 AM ET the following day.

About IT Cosmetics®: IT, which stands for Innovative Technology, is all about High Performance, Skin Loving, Problem Solutions! Founder Jamie Kern, who suffers from Rosacea, Sparse Brows, Hyperpigmentation and problematic-skin works hand-in-hand with a team of plastic surgeons to create innovative, high performance products laser focused on solving women’s beauty problems.

What I think:  I really love this brand and think this would be a great kit to get.  It’s great value for fantastic products!

Have you tried It Cosmetics?  What products do you love from the brand?

 

Beauty.com and SUNO Makeup Tote Gift With Purchase

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Beauty.com is stepping into spring with the Dégradé Daisy Make Up Tote from the creative forces behind SUNO. The product-filled tote is available exclusively on Beauty.com for shoppers who spend more than $100 at the prestige beauty retailer.  Available while supplies last, the Dégradé Daisy Make Up Tote can be found at http://www.Beauty.com/SunoBag

“We love this printed makeup up bag for travel,” says SUNO designers Erin Beatty and Max Osterweis.  “It’s a stylish way to hold your beauty necessities!”  The daisy-clad tote has a handle on the side and a zipper all the way across the top for secure storage.  A small pocket on the outside is ideal for placing a small mirror.

 

The limited edition Dégradé Daisy Make Up Tote comes filled with 13 prestige beauty samples in both deluxe sample and full sizes.  The bag and its contents have an approximate combined retail value of more than $120.

  1. Urban Decay Glide-On Lip Pencil, Naked
  2. GlamGlow Brightmud Eye Treatment
  3. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid
  4. Origins GinZing Brightening Mascara To Lengthen & Lift, Black
  5. CSI HairDo Clip-in Hair Strip
  6. Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Wash
  7. Peter Thomas Roth Mega Rich Body Lotion
  8. Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet
  9. Butter LONDON Nail File
  10. Nuxe Nuxellence Fluid
  11. H2O+ Total Source Cleanser
  12. Nick Chavez Color Saver Shampoo
  13. bareminerals Ready Bronzer, Skinny Dip
  14. An offer for you from the Beauty.com site

These beauty.com gift with purchases are such a great way to try great beauty brand and to get a designer makeup bag, too!

Enjoy!