Burt’s bees – Page 2 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of November 17—23, 2014

It’s almost Thanksgiving! Can you believe it? Are you looking forward to turkey day? And more importantly, have you changed up your look for the fall/winter yet?

This week, I have been loving fall inspired beauty products, a great new brow gel, a nourishing facial oil, pretty new makeup and great products to keep hair in place this winter.

Burt’s Bees Pumpkin Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees Cranberry and Pomegranate Sugar Scrub

Get ready for the flavors of Thanksgiving with festive Burt’s Bees products.

Burt’s Bees Pumpkin Lip Balm ($2.99 USD) — Indulge in your cold weather cravings with this 100% natural lip balm. Burt’s Bees Pumpkin Spice Lip Balm is infused with creamy pumpkin and a touch of spice, plus naturally conditioning beeswax and beneficial nutrients, to leave your lips delicious and hydrated. Stash this lip balm tube in your purse or pocket for anytime dry lip therapy. It’s free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS. Burt’s Bees lip conditioners are available in a variety of other fun flavors. Spread on a little TLC with Burt’s Bees moisturizing lip balm.

Burt’s Bees Cranberry & Pomegranate Sugar Scrub ($10.49 USD for 8 oz) — The ultimate sugar fix. Exfoliating crystals mingle with Pomegranate Oil, Cranberry Seed, and Shea Butter to gently polish and condition your skin. Leaving it feeling healthy, smooth and beautifully glowing. It’s the sweetest kind of clean!

What I think: Both of these smell amazing! The lip balm is very moisturizing and smells like pumpkin pie, yum! And the scrub is very tangy-scented and is great for removing your dry fall/winter skin!

You can purchase both of these products at Target stores and http://www.target.com

It Cosmetics Build-A-Brow Waterproof 5-in-1 Micro-Fiber Crème Gel Stain ($29, on sale for $26.36) — Build-A-Brow Waterproof 5-in-1 Creme Gel Stain combines five different technologies that help you to create, shape, and define your eyebrows. It’s your building fibers, taming creme gel, fill-in powder, and long-wear stain all in one step! This waterproof, 24-hour-wear, budge-proof formula is housed in a glass jar with a specially designed lid.

Includes:

0.12-oz Build-A-Brow Waterproof 5-in-1 Creme Gel Stain
Heavenly Luxe Build-A-Brow Brush

What I think: I received this in Universal Taupe which is too light for me (my brows are almost black), but I tried it and it did cover well and last a very long time. I do love how blendable it is and it looks very natural on.

Available in 5 shades at http://www.qvc.com

Marula Pure Marula Facial Oil ($78 for 1.69 oz, $58 for 1 oz, $15 for .23 oz) — Specially formulated for the face and neck, premium Marula Oil is a naturally soothing treatment that provides intense hydration, protection, and rejuvenation to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for soft, radiant skin. It is suitable for all skin types and contains a high content of fatty acids, resulting in fast absorption to leave skin smooth with a matte finish. Clinically proven to contain a great deal of antioxidants and omega acids, it can be used alone as a highly effective antiaging moisturizer, added to other facial products to boost their efficacy, soothe skin after facial treatments or sunburn, or used as a perfect makeup primer. The deliciously fresh scent that stems from a one percent essential oil blend and provides a total sensory experience upon application, then dissipates so it won’t fight your fragrance.

What I think: My skin has been a bit chapped lately. This oil soothes chapped and red skin. The scent is mild and warm, very nice. I use it on my face, but it is also great for cuticles!

Purchase at http://www.sephora.com

Laura Geller Spackle Supercharged Fortified Under Make-Up Primer

Laura Geller Baked Monochromatic Blushes

Love Me Dew Moisturizing Lip Crayon

Laura Geller Spackle Supercharged Fortified Under Make-Up Primer ($30 USD) — Award-winning primer creates a flawless canvas so make-up glides on and looks freshly-applied for hours—now SUPERCHARGED with soothing botanicals and age-fighting antioxidants that help promote skin elasticity and protect from free radicals: DC Detoxdefense™ (a powerful cocktail of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and phospholipids), polyphenol-rich Wine Extract and Resveratrol, plus Aloe, Beet Root, Centella Asiatica and White Tea Extracts.

Laura Geller Baked Monochromatic Blushes ($27.50 USD) — this velvety-smooth powder is made in Italy with an amazing process that starts as a blended liquid pigment that is baked for 24 hours on a terracotta pan. Its sateen formula is paraben-free and contains the antioxidant protection of Centella Asiatica and White Tea Extracts.

Laura Geller Love Me Dew Moisturizing Lip Crayon ($16 USD) — A juicy way to love your lips! Infused with Vitamin E, Love Me Dew features an ultra-hydrating, healing formula with a luxurious balm-like texture. Shiny color wears comfortably—never dry or sticky! This convenient chubby stick never needs sharpening and is perfect for touch-ups on the go.

What I think: I have been focusing on my skin lately. The cold air makes it red and splotchy. This primer helps even my skin tone and the blush give a pretty flush after I apply foundation. I love the lip crayon in Plum Freeze for a pretty pop of color.

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

John Frieda Frizz-Ease 6 Effects Original Hair Serum

John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon

John Frieda Sleek Finish Hair Brush

Keeping the flyaways at bay is so important in the cold air. John Frieda has some extremely effective products and tools at great prices!

John Frieda Frizz Ease 6 Effects original Hair Serum (approx. $9.99 USD) –Best-in-class frizzeliminator seals the hair cuticle to smooth medium to coarse hair and repair damage.An exceptional blend of silicones instantly eliminates frizz and transforms dry, brittle hair into soft, smooth strands.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon (approx. $5.99 USD) — Versatile crème, applied to dried hair, instantly transforms puffy, parched hair into a perfectly smooth, supple, shiny finished texture.Instantly smoothes hair andcamouflagesfrizzy ends for a flawless, shiny finish. Use anytime, anywhere.

John Frieda Sleek Finish Hair Brush (approx. $19.99 USD) — The metal bristles in the cushion and the central position of the ion generator, when placed close to the scalp, increases the antistatic benefits. Ball-tipped bristles and flexible cushion base for optimal comfort. Ion emission indicator light (LED). On/off switch. Ergonomically designed handle for comfort grip. Reduces frizz and static, leaving hair shiny looking and more manageable. Ionic antistatic technology. Double-sided ion generator.

What I think: I received these items to help keep my hair looking fab through the holdiays and winter. The brush is so cool. My whole family has tried it and it makes all types of hair instantly smooth and shiny. We all love it (and it would make a great gift)

After washing my hair today, I applied the serum to my wet hair. When it dried, it was so soft and shiny! I then applied a little Secret Weapon to my dry hair to make it look even better (keep in mind that my hair is usually a dry, frizzy mess)!

These products are available at mass market retailers near you. Learn more at http://www.johnfrieda.com/en-US

What products are you loving this week?!

Holiday Beauty Gift Guides 2014 — Makeup Sets

I was at the grocery store today and someone said that we have 5 weeks until Christmas — 5 WEEKS! Crazy. So I thought I better get started on my gift guides!

Do you know a lady that would love some new makeup for Christmas? This week I have some fun makeup gift ideas.

Tarte Petite Treats 12 Days of Tarte Deluxe Collection

Petite Treats 12 Days of Tarte Deluxe Collection ($37 USD, A $122 value!) — Ulta Exclusive! Countdown 12 days of Tarte with this exclusive deluxe advent calendar featuring a Tarte surprise hidden behind every door. From Tarte’s brightest in skincare to lash, lip and cheek wardrobe staples, this 12-piece deluxe set has everything you need for any glamorous holiday adventure, plus an exclusive Tarte offer that’s too good to miss. Simply open one door each day to reveal each delightfully deluxe treasure that awaits. Plus, enjoy a surprise offer on your next Tarte purchase inside!

The exclusive deluxe collection includes:

Limited-edition LipSurgence Lip Tint in Wishful (pinky nude) (0.056 oz.)
Brazilliance Skin Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanning Face Towelette 1 Ct.
Clean Slate Poreless 12-Hour Perfecting Primer (0.25 fl. oz.)
Limited-edition Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder (0.07 oz.)
MultiplEYE Lash Enhancing Primer (0.14 fl. oz.)
Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara (0.1 fl. oz.)
Lights, Camera, Flashes Statement Mascara (0.16 fl. oz.)
Double Detox Amazonian Clay Exfoliating Facial Mask (0.1 oz.)
Maracuja Rainforest Glow Instant Waterproof Body Perfector in Park Ave Princess (0.5 oz.)
Limited-edition Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Thrilled (light pink) (0.05 oz.)
Maracuja C-Brighter Eye Treatment (0.08 oz.)
Limited-edition Maracuja Oil (0.23 fl. oz.)

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

Burt’s Bees Tint ‘n Shine ($9.99 USD) — Whether layered or worn separately, our Lip Shine and Tinted Lip Balm will give anyone on your shopping list that little extra bit of holiday polish. And it’s sure to score you some extra holiday thanks. Available in Red or Pink sets.

Burt’s Bees has lots of fabulous holiday sets including skincare, kits for baby care and pedi sets.

Available at http://www.burtsbees.com

Laura Mercier Into the Wild Lookbook Collection ($125 USD) — selected for you. Tame yourself with the book of neutrals, or go wild with the forest greens and violet pops of colour books.

Stick to the look or mix, match and unleash your exotic side. Any way you choose you will be fearlessly flawless!

SAFARI CHIC PALETTE:

5 Eye Colours (bottom right palette, clockwise from top left corner)

– Buttercream, Goldspun (Limited), Bronze Glow (Limited), Cognac and Bamboo

1 Face Highlighter – Coral Shimmer (Limited)

1 Mini Longwear Crème Eye Pencil – Espresso

JUNGLE CHIC PALETTE:

5 Eye Colours (bottom left palette, clockwise from top left corner)

– Vanilla (Limited), Granite (Limited), Asphalt (Limited), Brocade (Limited) and Black Envy (Limited)

1 Tightline Cake Eye Liner – Black Ebony

1 Mini Kohl Eye Pencil – Black Gold

1 Travel Flat Eye Liner Brush

TRIBAL CHIC PALETTE:

6 Eye Colours (top palette, clockwise from top left corner)

– Gold Leaf (Limited), African Violet, Ambre (Limited), Royal Pink (Limited), Sugarplum (Limited)

2 Second Skin Cheek Colours

– Orange Blossom and Pink Lotus

Purchase at http://www.lauramercier.com

Hard Candy Eye Essentials Collection Eye Shadow Palette Holiday Gift Set ($4.88) — Create that smokey look you desire for an evening out on coordinating shades for a natural look with the Hard Candy Eye Essentials Collection Eye Shadow Palette Holiday Gift Set. Fall in love with these purse friendly eye shadow palettes.

This set includes:

2 eye shadow palettes
2 applicators
3 make-up brushes

You can purchase this and other cute and affordable Hard Candy sets at Walmart stores and http://www.walmart.com

glō minerals Keepsake Collection Train Case ($85 USD) — Showcase your ethereal self this season with a modern palette of neutral tones paired with dramatic accents to emphasize your best features. Create endless combinations from soft to sultry and everything in between.

Kit Includes:

Liquid Ink Eyeliner- black – A semi-gloss liquid liner featuring a felt-tip applicator
Eye Shadow Quad- spellbound – Rich, complementary tones, designed to enhance every eye color
3-in-1 Color Stick- fairy dust – A shimmering rose-gold for eyes, cheeks and lips
Lipstick- glaze – The perfect mauve kissed with pink shimmer
Lash Boosting Mascara- black (mini) – Volumizing, thickening, lengthening, strengthening and conditioning
Texture Eye Brush (mini) – Ideal for creating soft layers of color

All packaged in a timeless, quilted train case perfect for travel!

Available at http://www.gloprofessional.com

I hope these ideas are helpful! It’s good to know that you can give a fun gift at any price range!

Give Good Lip With New Lipsticks, Liners and Glosses!

Wow! I have been sent lots of wonderful new lip products to try over the last few weeks. So I have tons to review today!

What I’ve noticed in the products I have received is that it seems like a more polished lip is on trend. Lipsticks definitely are in as are lip liners. And many of the glosses I have tried lately are full colored and opaque. I am usually more of a sheer lip lady, but I think I might have to go for a more dramatic look in the fall.

Some of my new favorites are:

Paul and Joe Beauté Natural Lipstick Refill in Pamplemousse

Paul and Joe Beaute Lip Liner Duo

Paul and Joe Beaute Natural Lipstick Refill ($20 USD) — This pure texture creates plump, radiant lips with beautiful color and just the right amount of intensity and shine.

Paul and Joe Beaute Lip Liner Duo ($25 USD) — Lip color is twice as nice with this all-in-one pencil, available in five pairs of natural and vivid shades, to create a custom lip color to match any look or mood. Containing smooth-feel oil, the base allows you to draw lines with a light touch while leaving a lasting impression.

What I think: I really love this lip liner duo. It comes in a lighter and darker shade and I have been using both — the lighter when I wear a sheer gloss and darker with a fuller coverage lipstick. The lipstick is gorgeous too! It is very moisturizing and has a bit of a shimmer to it. Love!

Available at http://www.b-glowing.com/paul-joe-beaute.

Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Lip Crayons ($9 on sale now for $7.20 USD on Burt’s Bees Website) — Just wanted to share the newest and most exciting news from Burt’s Bees with you – their new lip crayons. The NEW Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Lip Crayons deliver a creamy matte finish and moisture-rich wear. These Lip Crayons harness the best of nature’s beautiful color in six available shades, plus uses 100% Natural ingredients like Shea Butter, Kendi Oil and Jojoba Oil – making them an amazing addition to the Burt’s Bees lip collection!

What I think: I have been enjoying this crayon in Sedona Sands, the lightest color of the group and a pretty nude. The formula is matte, but still moisturizing. They don’t have a flavor, which is nice.

Available at http://www.burtsbees.com

Yves Rocher Sheer botanical lipstick Marron Glace ($14.00 USD) — For the first time in a lipstick, Yves Rocher Research has selected Cherry Oil for its extraordinary shine and light refraction power.

Its ultra-sensory texture melts onto the lips and enhances them with a glossy colour that gives you the coverage you want. Available in 12 shades.

What I think: So moisturizing! It is almost like wearing a creamy gloss and I think that is due to the cherry oil. Some of the shades are almost a matte crème and some have a bit of shimmer to them. And they smell really nice, too!

Available at http://www.yvesrocherusa.com in September 2014.

Mally Beauty Lip Magnifier (retails for $20, now $15 for the month of August) — combines luminous color with a creamy, ultra-fierce lip gloss. Its refreshing formula smoothes and hydrates, leaving lips feeling silky and ultra soft. Simply begin by lining your lips with the lip pencil. Once they are completely lined, begin filling in your lips for a long-wear, luscious lip color. Available in 15 different shades!

What I think: I have been using this in Soft Nude, which is a gorgeous neutral. I like it alone, or I can apply lipstick or gloss over it. It has a bit of a pleasant minty taste and is not sticky at all.

Available on http://www.mallybeauty.com

BC Color Hydra Brilliance Lipstick – Garnet ($18 USD) — Saturate lips in pure brilliance. Each creamy sweep is enriched with hydrating aquatic herbs, essential vitamins and antioxidants to lock in moisture and lavish lips in vibrant color. Color-magnifying crystals add extra brilliance to all 26 lustrous shades.

What I think: Are you looking for a fab shimmering dark red for fall? This is your lipstick! It is so moisturizing and the color is rich and so pretty! I also love that it is good for my lips!

Available at http://www.shop.beauticontrol.com

Mehron Glosstone PRO

Mehron L.I.P Liner Pencil

Mehron Glosstone PRO ($11.95 USD) — Glosstone PRO is moisturizing and non-tacky leaving the lips glossy but not greasy. This long-wearing and never-sticky formula is enriched with antioxidants of Aloe Vera and Vitamin E. Available in a clear shade to be used alone or over L.I.P Creams to add shine and additional moisture, 3 highly-pigmented matte shades and 2 sparkly shades infused with tiny light reflectors to pump up the volume creating the appearance of fuller richer lips! Glosstone PRO is packaged in a sleek modern square vial and applied with the lip applicator wand. This “shine booster” is sure to become your favorite lip gloss! SHADES: Coral Reef, Red Kiss, Pink Crush, Crystal Clear, Bubble Gum Sparkle & Golden Spark.

Mehron L.I.P Liner Pencils (9.95 USD) are the perfect complement to L.I.P Creams and GLOSSTONES by Mehron, Innovators of Extreme Beauty Makeup. The Mehron chemists have encased a long-lasting creamy makeup in a pencil that enables you to define your lips without bleeding color or feathering. L.I.P Liner Pencils are available in six vibrant accenting colors, including natural, Glacier Pink, Red, Burgundy, Mandarin and Cocoa. These dynamic rich colors will highlight the natural beauty of your lips.

What I think: Mehron makes a lot of theatrical makeup, but they also have a fab beauty line. The products are affordable and work really well. I have been using a gorgeous combo of a new shade of the liner called Sweet — a perfect match for my lip color, a pinky nude — with a Glosstone called Coral Reef. I have been wearing a lot of pink and the coral is an opaque cream that will look gorgeous as a transition color into fall. The liner helps my color from feathering or fading. Win win!

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

Beauty Products For the Warm Summer Ahead!

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

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

Eraclea Intensive Repair and Protect Serum/Vitamin C

Eraclea Daily Bamboo Exfoliant

Eraclea Pure Hydration Serum/Zinc

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

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

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

Available at http://www.eracleaskincare.com

Burt’s Bees Brightening Daily Facial Cleanser

Burt’s Bees Brightening Eye Treatment

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

The items in the collection are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Korres Natural Products may be purchased at Sephora.com

What skincare are you using as summer approaches?

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!

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 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

Hawaiian Tropic® Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen

Hawaiian Tropic® SPF 30 Dry Oil Clear Spray Sunscreen

Hawaiian Tropic® Silk Hydration SPF 30 Face Lotion Sunscreen

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!

Radical Skincare’s Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads

Burt’s Bees Even Tone Brightening Cream

Nyakio Hydrating Eye Cream with Kola Nut

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!

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 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 ($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 ($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 ($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.

Purchase at www.facestockholm.com.

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

Holiday Bath and Body Gift Guide

Yay! My first gift guide of the season! I love putting these together to give you fun holiday beauty ideas.

Below are fragrant bath and body gift ideas. Lots of ladies love to receive bath and body gifts (men too, I will be doing a men’s holiday post soon). These are great ideas for all of the ladies in your life!

This yummy cocoa collection comes in three scents — Cocoa & Orange, Cocoa & Raspberry and Cocoa & Pistachio. They all smell amazing!

Each scent can be purchased in lots of different products. It would be fun to make a gift basket for a friend as the items are affordable:

Shimmering Shower Gel ($5 USD)

Perfumed Body Lotion ($5 USD)

Hand Cream ($3.50 USD)

Nourishing Lip Balm ($3 USD)

Liquid Hand Soap ($5 USD)

Scented Candle ($9 USD)

What I think: I love all of these scents, but especially the fruity ones. They are rich and tangy. And the prices are great!

Available at http://www.yvesrocherusa.com

Laura Mercier Body & Bath Travel Quartet - Fresh Fig — Laura Mercier Body & Bath Travel Quartet – Fresh Fig

Laura Mercier Body & Bath Travel Quartet in Fresh Fig ($50 USD), inspired by the sweet, fresh, intoxicating scent of gourmande ingredients, includes the indulgent essence of fresh Celeste Figs blended with dewy fruit bouquets of Apricot Nectar and sensuous Ylang Ylang to create a rich, luxurious scent, unlike any other.

Includes:

• Crème Body Wash, 3 oz. tube

• Body Butter, 3 oz. tube

• Hand Crème, 1 oz. tube

• Eau Gourmande, 15 ml glass bottle

What I think: Fresh Fig is one of my favorite Laura Mercier scents — it’s really fresh. This is a beautiful gift set for a special friend or family member.

Available at http://www.lauramercier.com

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Take Me There Set ($18 USD) — Pacifica Take Me There Sets are the ideal gift for anyone on your list this season. Perfectly portable products that are easy to carry with fragrances that will carry you away!

Each Take Me There Set contains our beloved purse-ready 2.5oz Body Butter, .33oz Perfume Roll-on and delicious NEW Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint. As always, the gorgeous box defies gift-wrapping.

What I think — This is a really affordable gift for a teacher or maybe a work friend. Also available in Island Vanilla, Hawaiian Ruby Guava and Tuscan Blood Orange.

You can learn more and purchase at www.pacificaperfume.com.

Smith and Vandiver Petite Treats Shimmer Collection ($25 USD) — The Petite Treats collections make perfect gifts or stocking stuffers! The Shimmer collection includes one Body Polish, one Bath Pearls, one Soy Candle, one Shea Butter Leaf Soap, one Solid Parfum, and one Organza gift bag. Each collection is available in Cupcake, Nectarina, and Oh La La.

What I think: I have this set in Nectarina and it smells fresh and sweet! The variety of products for the prices makes it a great value — I especially like the soy candle and solid perfume.

Available at www.svnaturally.com.

Burt’s Bees Bee Keeper’s Winter Care Kit ($14.99 USD) — For those prone to dry, winter skin, this is ideal. Containing the Richly Replenishing Cocoa & Cupuaçu Butters Body Lotion, Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Cream, and Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm with Kokum Butter, the kit is ideal for anyone spending any amount of time outside in the cold!

What I think: Perfect gift for someone with dry skin this time of year (which is probably all of us)!

Available at www.burtsbees.com and mass market retailers

Are you giving bath and body sets for the holidays? What are your favorites, leave a comment!

Enjoy!

Get Your Skin Ready For Fall Part 2

Fall is literally just weeks away. I have been testing out many products including cleansers, anti-aging elixirs, SPF and CC creams.

I love how there are so many great price points for skin care (as shown below), you can find something that will help prepare your skin for the cooler months ahead:

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash ($5.49) –Oil-Free Acne Wash is the #1 dermatologist recommended acne-fighting cleanser. This oil-free formula gently cleanses deep down into pores for clear skin. It contains Salicylic Acid to get rid of acne you have now and help prevent future breakouts. Special skin soothers help prevent irritation and overdrying. Skin is left clean, residue-free and never oily.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes ($6 USD) — These pre-moistened towelettes will not only make your beauty routine easier but they are the perfect essential to looking good.

Throw them in your weekend bag and you will be set for your getaway. Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes ($6.00 burtsbees.com) remove makeup, cleanse and tone your skin all in one easy step. These wipes are also formulated with Cotton Extract to soften skin while cleansing.

Precision MD Celfix DNA Youth Recovery Facial Serum ($78 USD) – includes antioxidants that defend against free radicals and Hyaluronic Acid to moisturize the skin. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles -Addresses past damage and prevents future signs of aging -Great for all skin types -Contains 3 powerful enzymes for optimal efficacy -It is delivered in a light, non-greasy formula that you’ll love.

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

Osmotics Cream Extreme Intensive Repair ($75 USD) — A healthy barrier is essential to a healthy and glowing complexion. I designed this rich, nourishing moisturizer featuring Osmotics’ proprietary combination of natural lipids to moisturize and strengthen your skin’s protective barrier and virtually eliminate the underlying cause of dry skin–dramatically improving moisture retention, while alleviating dryness and irritation.

$75; osmotics.com

Coola Mineral SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint ($36 USD) — Keep the sun and environment at bay with this SPF 20 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen, a tinted, light Rose scented, Titanium Dioxide based formula (for those who are Zinc sensitive) made with 98% natural ingredients. Organic Acai Oil – high in Omegas-3/6/9, Vitamins B1/2/3, plus antioxidant Vitamins C and E – delivers a powerful defense against aging. Organic Sunflower Seed Extract promotes elasticity while organic Linseed Oil, containing Alpha-Linolenic Acids, reduces redness and irritation. The phyto-protector Plankton Extract rejuvenates, as organic Cucumber Extract calms skin.

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

Amarte Natural Finish BB Cream Light Texture ($49 USD: This finely pigmented moisturizing face tint brightens, softly conceals and protects with SPF 36, providing uniform coverage without caking or flaking for a long lasting, natural glow. In Light and Dark.

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

Lumene Time Freeze Anti-Aging CC Cream ($14.99 USD). This fabulous 6 in 1 color correcting cream is infused with Wild Arctic Lingonberry and SPF 20. It helps moisturize, cover imperfections, even skin tone and protect against signs of aging all in one. It comes in 2 shades, light and medium.

Available in local drugstores and Ulta.

Enjoy your flawless fall face!

Summer Skin Savers — Part 2

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!

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.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

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 ($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 ($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 ($8.99 for 10 Snapplicators^TM), 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 Snapplicator^TM provides no-mess, no touch application that easily applies onto skin.

● How to Use: Grasp Snapplicator^TMbetween 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.

● Product ingredients: 1% hydrocortisone (active ingredient), aloe, botanicals and oat extract (inactive ingredients).

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.

Enjoy!

GIVEAWAY! — CEW Partners with BeautyBar.com For An Awesome Beauty Box

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

This box is a great price for all of the fab products, but how about getting one for FREE! I am giving away a box for one lucky reader! Just leave a comment on my blog saying that you would like to win the Insider’s Choice Beauty Box. I will choose a winner Monday July 30th.

Good Luck!