cosmetics – Page 6 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Perfect The Look of Your Skin With New Skincare and Foundation

Flawless skin can be achieved with great skincare to treat it and healthy makeup that also treats as it conceals blemishes.

The following are new products that I have been testing (sent to me for my honest opinion).

Looking for that effortless everyday protection? Zensation NEW Super Nourishing Cream SPF 50 ($85.00) shields, hydrates, and nourishes your complexion with intensely moisturizing botanicals and marine extracts. Scentless Camomile Extract infuses skin with moisture, and Sea Fennel Concentrate from coastal plants provides a natural skin guard. Dry skin is quenched and refreshed instantly and protected for hours. Multifunctional Salicylic Acid Ester gently exfoliates to give your skin a refined, smooth texture.

What I think: This is a luxurious cream! I have noticed that it is very hydrating, but not greasy. It is really light. I think this is a good cream for all year long.

Available at http://zensationbeaute.com/.

Algenist’s NEW Retinol Firming & Lifting Serum

The new Algenist Retinol Firming & Lifting Serum ($98 USD) is scientifically formulated to restore skin’s firmness while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin summer-ready and radiant. Alguronic Acid – Algenist’s patented ingredient extracted from Microalgae – is joined together for the first time with a superior retinol to deliver accelerated results by gently exfoliating and stimulating the skin surface to smooth texture and imperfections while reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

The results?

· Measured and visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkle length and depth

· Visible improvement in the appearance of skin firmness, tightness, tone and suppleness

· Dramatic improvements in skin smoothness and softness creating a porcelain-like complexion

· The radiance and glow of healthy looking skin

Results are noticeable in just 10 days with long term results visible in a mere 28 days.

What I think: I really like this serum. I haven’t used a lot of retinol because my skin is sensitive. I use this once a day or every other day depending on how my skin reacts to it. But, I really like the results. My skin is smoother and my fine lines are less noticeable. I am a big fan of the Algenist brand and they are always introducing innovative products like this one!

Available at: Sephora, Sephora.com and Algenist.com

Pür Minerals introduces their new CC Cream with SPF 40 ($38.00 USD). Pür’s CC protects, corrects and perfects skin’s appearance with clinically advanced, plant based ingredients. This silicone-free formula works to erase brown spots, blemishes, redness and fine lines while balancing uneven skin tone.

Pür’s CC Cream is formulated with two unique ingredients:

DERMAPUR® HP – a special complex extracted from meadowsweet that’s rich in clarifying phenolic acids.

CLARISKIN II® – a unique agent made from wheat germ that targets the look of discoloration with key antioxidants.

Available in four shades: Light, Medium, Tan, and Dark

What I think: I am always curious about BB and CC creams. I love skincare and makeup combined. But I find that the colors are off a lot of the time and they are very thick.

I like this one. I received it in light. It is too light for me now, but will be perfect for the winter time. It is not too thick. It applies nicely and covers really well. And, it is not orange-hued, which a lot of the creams are.

Pür Minerals is available at ULTA Stores nationwide, professional spas and physician offices and online via www.purminerals.com.

Laura Mercier Undercover Pot ($34 USD) – This travel-friendly pot combines steps three and four of the Flawless Face into one convenient package for touch-ups. The compact product, available in four shades, features Secret Camouflage in the left pan, Secret Concealer in the right pan and Translucent Loose Setting Powder in the bottom compartment. It’s the perfect size to pack in a travel makeup case or keep in your bag for touchups.

What I think: I really like this concealer pot. With two shades of cream and the powder, you can really customize the level of concealing that you need to do. I keep it in my purse for touch ups.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Crème Compact SPF 20 ($45.00 USD) – This innovative update to the classic Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer features a lightweight crème formula that gives skin a dewy, natural-looking flawless finish, ideal for all skin types. With SPF 20 and a hint of color, this portable compact is perfect for travel and touch ups at home, or on the go.

What I think: This is the foundation that I am using now (in the shade Bisque). It is perfect over primer and concealer. Also, you can decide how much to used for what kind of coverage you need.

Available at www.lauramercier.com and fine department stores.

Enjoy!

Maybelline Summer 2013

If there is one thing Maybelline New York knows, it’s that makeup is the perfect accessory. IT Girls are all about adding a few key pieces every season to keep their look fresh, gorgeous and on trend.Maybelline New York makes it easy this summer with six hot limited edition collections –available only for the month of May. Stylish women everywhere will be able to add a pop of color to their makeup wardrobe.

Go for the faux: Every IT Girl knows a faux glow is the only way to go, but it’s not always easy to achieve the perfect bronzed look. The limited edition Dream Sun Bronzing collection makes it a snap!

· Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Four Seasons is a unique, multi-tonal palette that creates a customized bronzed look. Choose how light or dark you want to go, or combine the shades all over for a radiant glow. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99
· Illuminate skin with the Dream Sun Bronzing Face Illuminator, a gel formula that reflects light to highlight skin and create a warm, shimmery glow. Available in one universal shade. $8.99
· Perfect for all-over bronzing, the Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Matte creates a natural sun-kissed glow in a matte finish that is ideal for the T-zone. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99
· The Dream Sun Bronzing Powder Glow offers a touch of shimmer that’s perfect for cheekbones and brow bones or to add a touch of sultriness to shoulders, collarbones and décolleté. Available in Light and Medium, $8.99

Seaso-nail Colors: Nothing says summer more than a bright manicure!Color Show Nail Lacquer will be available in 10 show-stopping new shades that will perfectly complement your summer wardrobe. The chip resistant formula will be available in:Azure Seas, Bare Escape, Canary Cool, Midnight Swim, Mint Mist, Pacific Blues, Poolside,Sandstorm, Turquoise Paradise and Urban Utopia. $3.99

Get inked: Make eyes pop with eight bold shades of Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24 HR Cream-Gel Shadow. The semi-permanent gel-cream smoothes on for vibrant, crease-resistant color that wears for 24 hours – a must for steamy summer days. Amp up your look with one of these flattering shades: Blue Paradise, Cool Crush, Icy Mint, Lavish Lavender, Precious Pearl, Seashore Frosts, Shady Shores or Waves of White. $6.99

Up the Drama:Put a spin on the smoky eye with the Eye Studio Master Drama Cream Pencil in Navy Knockout or Taupe Takeover. This eyeliner, which applies with the ease of a pencil and the intensity of a cream, allows for an incredibly bold and long-wearing line. Best of all, it’s waterproof, smudge-resistant and lasts for 24 hours. $7.99

Go light:Get soft, sexy lips with Color Sensational Color Whisper. This lightweight lipstick creates translucent, light color with a kiss of shine. Nourishing honey nectar keeps lips soft and the barely there feel makes this a summer beauty must-have. Try it in one – or all four! – of the limited edition shades: I Crave Coral,Nude Shimmer, Ravishing Pink and Sienna Sands. $7.49

Shine on:Make a statement with six gorgeous shades of Color Sensational High Shine Lip Gloss. This wax-free gloss delivers pure color for saturated look with the ultimate shine. Honey nectar nourishes lips.Coral Heat, Fuschia Sparks, Nude Compliment, Peach Glisten, Peony Sheen, and Rose Lust pack the perfect punch. $7.49

These Maybelline New York limited edition collections will be available at select mass retailers nationwide for the month of May 2013 only.

Skincare Innovations — Try Something New to Improve Your Skin

Skincare is constantly evolving and improving. I LOVE trying new products, including these breakthrough ones below that were sent to me for my honest opinion.

PCA Skin Pigment Bar – pHaze 13 ($28 USD) — A cleansing, anti-hyperpigmentation bar for skin suffering from discoloration.

Pigment Bar is the cleansing companion in PCA’s pigment control program, designed to enhance and maintain the complexion-refining results produced by its sister products. pHaze 13 Pigment Bar helps control blemish outbreaks and discolorations as it cleanses the skin of dirt and debris. For pigment control maintenance, use two to three times weekly.

This is such an easy way to clean skin. It comes with three flat sponges that expand once wet. The jar contains a black solid (the bar). To use I wet the sponge and rub it on the bar for lather. I then wash my face with the sponge. It cleans without drying out my skin. I haven’t noticed any lightening of sun spots yet, but for a daily fash soap it works great!

Purchast at www.dermstore.com.

Algenist Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer ($42 USD) — With an advanced formulation that combines Alguronic Acid with 7 additional active ingredients, the Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer creates a satin-soft finish for long-lasting makeup application. Delivering more than your average primer, this formula also visibly refines pores, blurs fine lines and improves skin’s texture and tone, just in time to highlight that summer glow.

Currently this is my favorite primer. It instantly evens out my skin and blurs the appearance of my pores. It also smooths my skin and prepares it for foundation or bb cream.

Available at Sephora, Sephora.com and Algenist.com

MitoQ ($185 USD) is considered to be the most potent antioxidant on the market to date and is proven to be 1000 times stronger than CoQ, a molecule used in many anti-aging products. MitoQ is the only topical cream that can deliver ubiquinone to mitochondria at levels shown to have an immense effect inrejuvenating the cells, encouraging the natural production of collagen and elastin and leaving skin looking radiant with a lit-from-within glow.

I have been using MitoQ for a few weeks now and noticed improvements in my skin almost instantly. My skin looks so much better. It is less blotchy, more even and I don’t see any fines lines or wrinkles around my eyes. And my skin does glow!

Available at www.mitoq.com.

Orico Streetwise Oxygenating Day Cream ($42 USD) –Breathe new life into the skin. Streetwise Oxygenating Day Cream contains a clinical bioactive proven to help optimize cell respiration whilst smoothing, rejuvenating and protecting skin against daily urban pollution. This daily moisturizer with all-natural antioxidants Macadamia and Argan oil helps to reduce wrinkles, restore moisture levels, firmness and skin radiance. Fragrance free and suitable for sensitive skin.

As I get older, my skin becomes more sensitive. I love advanced anti-aging skincare like this that is also for sensitive skin. This is very moisturizing and gentle without being greasy or oily.

Available at www.oricolondon.com.

Summer Makeup Ideas — Part 1

Summer makeup is usually bronze and shimmering and/or bright and fun. This years offerings are no different!

I love using self tanner (post to come), so in the summer I don’t cake on the makeup. So bronzer, great waterproof eye makeup and bright lips and eyes are the perfect products for an easy look.

I am so lucky to have been sent lots of fabulous makeup products for my honest opinion. I have a lot to review, and here are some great ones:

ck one summer limited edition color capsule

ck one summer limited edition explores the colorful world under the sea and transforms its
tropical hues into a vivid palette of summer shades.

the lineup includes:

ck one summer limited edition powder bronzer compact in shade 400 sandbar ($25 USD)

ck one summer limited edition long wear + shine nail color ($14 each) scented with ck one summer fragrance
in shades 500 riptide (shimmery aqua) and 610 current (bright green creme). Once dry, they smell fantastic!

ck one summer limited edition long wear cream eyeshadow tubes in shades 400 surge (bright turquoise), 500
reef (vivid green), and 720 dune (sandy beige) ($18 each).

I have been testing the nail polish in riptide and the cream eyeshadow in reef and dune. The polish is crazy-pretty and smells great after it dries. The eyeshadow in reef is a bit to bright for me, but I LOVE dune. It is bronzy summer in a tube and lasts a long time on.

You can purchase these at Ulta stores and www.ulta.com.

Summer 2013 Aqualillies for tarte limited-edition collection is so cool! Inspired by America’s most glamorous synchronized swimming group, the Aqualillies, this limited-edition collection includes seven splashproof products.

For additional information, check out the Aqualillies for tarte collaboration on tarte’s YouTube channel.

I have been testing the finishing powder, the lipstick and the eyeliners. The finishing powder is so good! Use a fluffy powder brush to buff it over foundation or bb cream. It sets your makeup and blurs the look of fine lines and pores.

The lipstick is gorgeous, but way to bright for me. I gave it to my teenage daughter and it is so pretty on her.

The eyeliners last FOREVER on. But the brush takes me a bit to get the hang of, and you only have a few minutes play until it is set and totally waterproof. Perfect for the pool!

Purchase at www.tartecosmetics.com, Ulta and Sephora stores

Laura Mercier Folklore Collection — Laura Mercier’s inspiration for this collection stems from Aztec influences and fantastical rituals, colours in this collection are reminiscent of ancient symbols and artifacts, textiles and jewelry. When conceptualizing the collection, Laura envisioned the spirit of earth and fire infused into an illuminating new mosaic of colour. The products create a naturally bronzed look, with fiery shades that are perfect for day and night.

Products in the photo above are:

Crème Eye Liner ($22 USD) — An ultra-smooth, water-proof creamy eye liner that applies with the ease and smooth silky finish of a gel and the precision of a liquid liner. Smudge and transfer-resistant, this long-wearing formula goes on “foolproof” with the Laura Mercier Angled Eye Liner Brush. New colors are Canard (teal) and Cobalt (Vibrant Mid-Tone Blue).

Lip Crayon ($22 USD) A smooth lip colour that provides pure, long-wearing colour to lips in three on-trend shades for summer. With a convenient purse-friendly package, Lip Crayon never needs sharpening, making it perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go. The colors are Folklore (fuchsia), Mayan Sun (orange pink), and Burnt Clay (deep brown).

Baked Blush Bronze ($36 USD) — Laura Mercier Baked Blush Bronze is a baked powder with five complimentary shades that together provide the perfect, natural colour for cheeks and face. Each tile is hand-mixed with a unique design. The color is called Ritual and it is a warm bronze.

Illuminating Eye Colour (24 USD) — Eye colour with a multi-dimensional, luminous pearl finish with a soft, bouncy texture for excellent colour pay-off and a smooth, even application. The shades are Fire Glow (copper shimmer), Sun Glow (gold with shimmer) and Earth Glow (deep brown).

Faux Lash Mascara ($24 USD) — Give real lashes extreme volume and length for intense exaggeration and drama. The formula is extra-smooth, glossy and good-for-lashes, created with a blend of waxes and absolutely no fibers. Build rich, exaggerated lashes that are extraordinarily thick, super-shiny and conditioned. The new color is Sierra Brown.

I have been trying the eye shadows. I LOVE them. So pretty. I like to wear Sun Glow for an everyday light color and then add the Fire Glow in the crease and Earth Glow as a liner at night. So glam!

These can be purchased at http://www.lauramercier.com.

I will be featuring more summer makeup products soon. (And may even have a fun giveaway in a few weeks!)

Enjoy!

Wantable Monthly Makeup and Jewelry Subscription Boxes

Products You May Receive in the April Makeup Wantable Box

I was recently very lucky to receive a complementary Wantable Makeup Box for my honest review.

What is Wantable? It is a new monthly makeup or jewelry subscription service. For a $40 one-time fee or $36 if you subscribe, you will receive 4 to 6 full-size premium makeup products or 4 to 5 boutique jewelry items that are valued at $80-$100.

To get started on the website (www.wantable.co), click on whether you would like a makeup or a jewelry box. Then after a few questions regarding your preferences, you can sign up to receive a box. If you decide to subscribe, you can skip a box or cancel at anytime.

The following is what you will receive in April Wantable Boxes:

Makeup Box:

4 to 6 full-size premium makeup products.
Featuring celebrity makeup artist Iris Moreau.
Each box hand-picked just for you to perfectly match your style preferences.
Expert application advice for each product.
Free shipping and free returns.
100% satisfaction guaranteed.

Jewelry Box:

4 to 5 boutique jewelry items.
Hand-selected by fashion photographer and stylist Helen Berkun.
New and unique items sourced every month.
Expert accessorizing to help you wear each piece.
Customized to your personal style preferences.
Free shipping and free returns.
100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Your box will contain on-trend and personalized product

The products I received are:

Color Club Nail Polish in Wild Cactus, emerald green ($8 USD http://www.shopcolorclub.com)

Be a Bombshell Eye Shadow in Risky Business, a shimmering golden brown ($14 http://www.beabombshellcosmetics.com)

Manna Kadar Blush in High Five, a peachy-pink ($19 USD www.mannakadarcosmetics.com)

Real Techniques 2-in-1 Kabuki Folding Brush ($10 USD http://www.realtechniques.com)

Be a Bombshell Onyx Mascara ($15 USD http://www.beabombshellcosmetics.com)

Paula Dorf Eye Liner in Chocolate, a deep brown ($20 USD www.pauladorf.com)

Plus a sample card with 29 Cosmetics skincare.

The retail total of these products is $86. I think this is a great deal for $36 – $40!

I haven’t tried most of these brands (except for Color Club) and I was so excited to try them! I love the green (Pantone color of the year) polish. It is a gorgeous color and quite edgy. The eyeshadow is a great everyday neutral. The blush is so pretty and shimmery. The brush is very cool, it unfolds so it can be used as a wider, flat brush for blush or bronzer. Close it up and it is a good kabuki powder brush. It has very soft bristles, too.

My least favorite products are the mascara, which gives a natural look (I like a more dramatic look) and the eyeliner is not very pigmented. They will be fine for a soft, natural look.

I recommend this service. Getting full-sized products is amazing and they are from some great brands. Visit www.wantable.co to sign up! Also, visit them on Facebook and Twitter on www.facebook.com/Wantableco and @Wantableco.

Enjoy!

It Cosmetics Hello Beautiful Anti-Aging 5-pc Color Collection — QVC’s Today’s Special Value

For one day only — today, March 18, 2013 — this fabulous collection is on sale at QVC!

Hello Beautiful Anti-Aging 5-piece Color Collection gives you the power to achieve an airbrushed complexion, a gorgeous vitality-filled glow that lasts all day, plus beautiful lashes!

What is in the kit, you ask? Well…

0.30-oz Celebration Foundation
0.33-fl-oz Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Mascara in Black
0.118 fl oz Tightline Full Lash Length Primer in Black–exclusive to QVC until 9/18/2013
0.24-oz Vitality Flush Color Stain Stick in Je Ne Sais Quoi, a sheer pink–exclusive to QVC until 9/18/2013
Heavenly Luxe Buffing Airbrush Foundation Brush

Celebration Foundation, a creamy full-coverage antiaging powder foundation, helps to provide a more youthful radiance, conceal imperfections, and help blur away the look of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. Tightline Full Lash Length Black Primer with skinny wand coats and primes your lashes. Clinically proven to quadruple the volume of your lashes, Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Mascara infuses your lashes with a blend of lash-enhancing and conditioning ingredients. Vitality Flush Stain Stick is a long-wear flush of naturally pretty color that doesn’t dry out your lips or skin.

How to use — With the Heavenly Luxe Buffing Airbrush Foundation Brush, swirl circles in Celebration Foundation to grab product. Buff into skin in circular motions.

Starting at the root of your lashes hold the Tightline Full Lash Length Black Primer Skinny Wand horizontally then wiggle and sweep through to the tips. For a more visible eyeliner effect, gently press the Tightline wand along the base of your lash line, filling in the gaps between your lashes. Move along the entire upper lash line for a beautiful eyeliner effect.

Starting at the base of your lashes, hold the Hello Lashes brush horizontally, then wiggle and sweep the brush up and through to the tips. Next, hold the brush vertically and push up your lashes. Finally, use the lash ball detailer to add definition and separation to your lower, inner, and outer corner lashes.

Apply Vitality Flush 4-in-1 Reviver Lip & Cheek Stain Stick to lips, cheeks, and any area you desire a beautiful sheer wash of vitality-filled color. To give your cheeks a pop of youthful color, gently pat and blend into the apples of your cheeks.
From It Cosmetics.

What I think: I recieved this kit complementary for my honest review. I like all of the products, but especially love the celebration foundation and the brush, the Tightline because it is cool and very different. The Vitality Flush is excellant on my lips, but it’s heavy get formulation is a little heavy on my cheeks. The color is gorgeous, though! And the Hello Lashes is a bit tricky to use, but give HUGE Lashes!

This set is available for one day only — March 18, 2013 until Midnight at http://qvc.co/ItCosmeticsfortyflirtyfab.

The Anti-Aging Skincare That I Have Been Using and Loving Lately!

My skin type is sensitive, combination and aging. I like to try all different types of products to perfect my skin (not an easy thing to do).

Below is a bunch of great products that I have been sent to review and that I really like. I have a lot to cover, so read on!

Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cream Cleanser ($7.99 USD) — This warming cleanser pampers skin as it whisks away buildup and oil. The powerful daily line of defense against clogged, congested pores contains Zeolite, a special mineral clay that warms on contact with water, and Salicylic acid, a powerful yet gentle ingredient that penetrates pores to help fight breakouts by dissolving clogged oil.

What I think: I do have blackheads around and on my nose. So when I first tried this I squirted a little on my Clarisonic, then scrubbed around my nose area. It really cleaned out those pores! It does heat up quite a lot (my teen daughter equated it to stepping in a hot shower), so be aware. But, it is a great pore cleaner. I suggest to use it 2-3 times a week.

Available at mass market retailers near you. Also, visit www.biore.com to learn more.

Customise your skincare. Focus your results with our NEW Intraceuticals+ Boosters ($49 USD Each). These are four powerful, targeted additives to use alone or combine with Daily Serum as revive, the first step in 3 step hyaluronic layering. The different boosters are:

Collagen + Booster — Restore, Tighten, Volume

Vitamin C+3 Booster — Smooth, Brighten, Strengthen

Antioxident + Booster — Detox, Revitalise, Balance

Vitamin A + Booster — Regenerate, Clarify, Refine

What I think: These Boosters are great either with or without being mixed with a serum. They are perfect when you have a targeted skin need. I especially love the Collagen one to tighten my skin and the Vitamin C+3 one to brighten my skin tone. Great skin treatments. Purchase at www.intraceuticals.com.

Introducing Avon Anew Clinical Pro Line Eraser with patented A-F33 (Amino-Fill 33) ($39.99 USD)—the anti-aging breakthrough of the decade! A-F33 works unlike potent anti-agers AHA, retinol, injectable collagen. The look of deep wrinkles begin to fade in just one week. 100% of women showed visible improvement in fine wrinkles in 2 weeks. Over time, 27% improvement in the appearance of fine and deep wrinkles. Designed to work with any ANEW skin care regimen to help optimize results. TO USE: In AM and PM, apply to cleansed face and neck avoiding the eye area. Follow with ANEW moisturizer.

What I think: This is a wonderful — and affordable — anti-aging serum! I love how potent it is, but also it is quite gentle and soothing. It is designed to work with ANEW skincare, but I have found it is working with all of the fab products that I have been using. I have notices that is smooths my skin and has helped even out the tone and the wrinkles around my eyes. I have tried a LOT of expensive skincare and do believe that this is as good as any of the luxury serums I have tried.

Purchase at www.shopavon.com.

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Peel ($16.99 USD). I received this free from BzzAgent to try (www.bzzagent.com to sign up!). Apply Garnier Skin Renew Clinical Dark Spot Overnight Peel every night, and leave it on all night. Your skin will absorb the lightweight formula for almost immediate results:

Overnight: See smoother, hydrated skin
In 1 week: See brighter skin
In 4 weeks: Spots and imperfections are significantly reduced

Created with Garnier’s innovative Glycolic Vitamin C Complex, the leave-on peel gently speeds exfoliation to fade spots and reveal smoother, brighter and remarkably more even-toned skin.

What I think: I like the ease of this affordable overnight peel. Just smooth on clean skin and leave on overnight. No rinsing needed. It is a little irritating on my sensitive skin, so I don’t use it every night. Just a couple of days a week. I have noticed that my spots are a little lighter and I am sure they will improve the more I use it.

Available at mass market retailers near you and learn more at www.garnier.com

Mattifying Oil Control Facial Moisturizer ($18 USD) — Lightweight moisturizer that helps control excess oil for a shine-free, matte finish while delivering skin perfecting, natural age-defense. Magnesium, Copper and Zinc stimulate skin cells’ production of energy, which encourages new cell creation for revitalized, younger-looking skin. These minerals also provide antioxidant defense against damaging free radicals.

Application of this clinically-tested, anti-wrinkle peptide promotes collagen production, which firms the skin by strengthening structural support within cells. Regular use results in visibly smoother, more supple skin. Free of gluten, parabens, SLS, phthalates, articial colors and synthetic fragrances. 100% vegetarian and never tested on animals.

What I think: I like using this moisturizer in the morning because it is oil-free and keeps my skin matte and soft all day. It also has a very nice scent. I love that it includes minerals and is actually good for my skin!

You can purchase Mineral Fusion at www.mineralfusion.com

Freeze 24/7 Arctic Lift Firming Neck Cream ($95 USD) — Get high altitude for your neck with this luxuriously rich lifting cream that instantly hydrates, tightens and firms neck and chest area. ArcticLift™ smooths away imperfections and plumps up skin for a lifted, toned and youthful appearance. Formulated with Rejuvelle, a proprietary cactus pectin with amazing water binding properties, to immediately hydrate and fill sagging neck skin. Skin’s texture is perfected and strengthened, firmed and lifted.

What I think: I have only been using this for about a week, but I love it! With the first use, my skin felt firmer and every day I use it, my neck gets a little less saggy (the joys of aging)! With regular use, this is so effective and a great product to have in my anti-aging arsenal!

Learn more and purchase at www.freeze247.com.

Getting to the root of wrinkles through an innovative and proprietary combination of high-potency natural antioxidants and medically-directed compounds, the Vitaphenol skin care line targets discerning women who are looking to avoid invasive cosmetic procedures.

“While it’s true that most women don’t enjoy the aging process, the key is to take good care of skin. Exclusive, potent and powerful Vitaphenol appeals to women who understand the power of phenomenal skin and are willing to do something about it. It’s a premium top-of-the-line brand for the type of woman who is committed to aging with beauty and who demands exceptional skin care that actually works,” said Tricia Buenvenida, VP/Brand Director at SciDerma Medical, the specialty cosmeceutical and dermatology company which holds the exclusive U.S. sub-license for the Vitaphenol skin care collection.

The formulation was created by a world-renown dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon using a mix of scientifically-advanced compounds with naturally effective anti-aging remedies in each of the products. At the heart of all the products is the Vitaphenol Complexä, a unique blend of four naturally-derived AHAs: white and green tea extracts, mangosteen, and pomegranate. When combined, they rejuvenate and protect the skin.

The Vitaphenol skincare collection consists of seven products, ranging from $45 for the Ultra Daily Gentle Cleanser and Anti-Aging Toner to $195 for the Cellustructure Rejuvenating Serum (CRS). Dermatologists have used CRS as the cornerstone of skincare for their patients. CRS features the recombinant growth factor, TGF-beta 1 (transforming growth factor), known to increase collagen synthesis, which restores the structural integrity of the skin and controls inflammation, and encourage elastin production for smooth, velvety skin.

CRS is supported by published clinical studies, with 58% of patients noticing an improvement in wrinkles, and 68% of patients noticing an improvement in skin texture after its use. The recommended Vitaphenol regimen consists of a using a 4-step/4-product system, and the product combinations differ according to dry, oily, normal, and acne-prone skin.

What I think: I have been testing the Ultra-Gentle Daily Cleanser ($45 USD), the Anti-Aging Toner ($45 USD), the Oil-Free Anti-Aging Serum ($95 USD), Cellustructure Rejuvenating Serum ($195 USD) and the Daily Fortified Moisturizer ($95 USD).

I am loving this system. Especially the very gentle cleanser, the oil free serum and the moisturizer. They are all so gentle on my skin. I have only used the Cellustructure serum a few times as it irritates my skin a bit. But the rest of the products are effective anti-aging skincare that work so well with my skin. All I really need to use is an SPF on top of the daily moisturizer and I am good to go! I am seeing younger-looking skin with this system!

Learn more and purchase at www.vitaphenol.com.

EnjoyQ

March Mascara Madness!

I have been sent some fabulous mascaras for my honest review and I am so excited to share them with you!

Flower is the new beauty line by Drew Barrymore. The brand’s philosophy is that you no longer have to spend a lot of money to get the quality cosmetics you want and deserve. Where other beauty brands spend a vast percentage of the cost of their products on ads, they do not. Drew, as an owner of the brand, takes pride in promoting Flower, which in turn allows the company to put all of their resources into the formulas and packaging, and not into advertising.

The first item I have tried from Flower is the Lash Knockout Volumizing Mascara ($6.98 USD). The claims for this mascara is it will:

Lengthen and nourish lashes with Red Seaweed for elasticity
Shiny Polymers add shine, luster and condition
Vegetal Polymers provide easy application and superb adherence for all-day wear

What I think: This is a great thickening mascara for a fab price! The brush has plush, closely placed bristles that impart a nice, thick coat of mascara. If you like volumizing mascara, this is a good one to try. Available at Walmart and Walmart.com.

L’Oreal introduces liquid extensions in a bottle, with Telescopic Shocking Extensions mascara ($8.49 USD), a new generation of lash length. In one motion lashes are separated, intensified, and look shockingly lengthened for an
intense make-up result.

What I think: This plastic bristle brush really lengthens lashes, and separates as well. If that is the look that you like, I really recommend this mascara. It is easily available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

Mineral Fusion Lengthening Mascara ($14.99 USD) This is a natural mineral mascara. Minerals apply smoothly to darken and lengthen for beautifully defined lashes. Naturally nourishes and protects to promote maximum lash health and fullness. Gentle, non-irritating formula applies easily, without clumping, flaking or smudging. Free of Gluten, Parabens, Artificial Colors, Fragrances and Talc. Never-tested on animals. Hypo-allergenic.

What I think: If you like a natural look, this will give that to you with natural ingredients. I know that some ladies don’t like huge lashes and this will give a softer look. Available at www.mineralfusion.com

NEW Mally Instant Impact Mascara takes lashes to great lengths with a six-ball applicator that distributes mascara evenly to each lash–every one of them will look longer and fuller than ever before!

What I think: This is my favorite mascara at the moment. It gives HUGE volume and length. The only thing is that the product tends to collect at the base of the last ball, so be careful when you take it out of the tube. I wipe it off with a tissue and go to town on my lashes. Great for night looks or for the ladies who like drama every day!

This is now only available in a kit at www.qvc.com called Mally 7-piece Makeup Makeover Collection for $72.50 USD. Hopefully it will be available by itself soon!

Ellis Faas Mascara ($34 USD)A creamy mascara that perfectly coats, lengthens and separates each individual lash. This mascara is ideal for creating customized looks. In one coat, it accentuates your lashes with subtlety; additional coats frame your eyes with lush, more dramatic effect.

What I think: I am loving the versatility of this mascara. One coat gives you very long and separated lashes. A couple more coats provides volume as well. Plus, it comes in a very cool bullet container.

Enjoy!

MAKE Beauty — A New For-Benefit Colour Cosmetics Line

MAKE is the first for-benefit colour cosmetics line launching on WeSeeBeauty.com – a for-benefit marketplace of ideas, stories and products that support the cooperative movement. One-third of all MAKE product sales will support the non-profit organization, the We See Beauty Foundation, dedicated to incubate and accelerate women-led, worker owned cooperatives. The foundations first project is establishing a cooperative in Brooklyn, NY called Do Good Be Beautiful, that will create and sell its own healthy cleaning and personal care products.

MAKE encourages creative self-expression and introduces a new way of interpreting and celebrating beauty. In addition to the complete range of core products, MAKE will pair two unique artists each season to create a concept collection. The first partnership pairs furniture and interiors designer Faye Toogood (who has worked with Opening Ceremony, Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen) with makeup artist Ayami Nishimura to create the New Medieval Collection.

I was sent the following products complementary for review:

MAKE Soft Focus Foundation ($32.50 USD) — Delivering flawless coverage and a velvety finish, our Soft Focus Foundation helps to correct uneven skin tones and smooth fine lines through revolutionary, light-diffusing micro-spheres. Lightweight polymers allow skin to breathe, while natural bark extract helps control shine. Ginseng, green tea extract and squalane help to provide anti-oxidant protection and hydration. Currently available in 16 shades from very light to very deep.

Usage: Apply after moisturizer and primer using sponge or brush. Blend well and let set a few minutes.

Not tested on animals, cruelty-free, vegan, fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic

What I think: This is a beautiful foundation. It is so light on the skin, but it gives great coverage. The finish is dewy, but not shiny. It wears really well, too!

MAKE Matte Finish Blush ($22.50 USD) — Look fresh as a summer rose with our luxurious Matte Finish Blush. The high-quality, jet-milled pigments provide true, long-lasting color and wear. Plus, the talc-free formula, enhanced with the anti-oxidant power of vitamins A, C and E, is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Usage: Using a blush brush, sweep blush into hollows of cheeks with a light dusting on top of cheekbones. Buildable color can be layered on for desired hue.

Not tested on animals, oil-free, talc-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic

What I think — This matte blush is available in 6 shades. The color above (which I have) is called Tutu. It really brightens my pale skin, but I think it would look great on all skin tones. I love the matte finish, but it is not cakey at all.

MAKE Satin Finish Eyeshadow ($18 USD) — Give an eyeful with our gorgeous, softly luminous Satin Finish Eyeshadow. In a variety of jet-milled pigments with fine shimmer and vitamins C and E for anti-oxidant protection. Apply dry or wet for a more dramatic finish.

Not tested on animals, paraben-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic.

What I think — This comes in 22 shades. I have Ivy, an intense forest green with an emerald undertone. It is perfect for a smoky look, in the crease or as an eyeliner. Pretty!

MAKE Silk Satin Lipstick ($18 USD) — Get lippy with our unforgettable, satin-finish lip color. Rosehip soybean and safflower oils provide lips with all day hydration, while the softly lustrous shades also soothe and nourish with chamomile extract and vitamins A, C and E. In a range of true-wear colors for every mood.

Not tested on animals, paraben-free, hypoallergenic.

What I think — The shade above is Cordoba, a medium rose with a golden pearlescent glow. It is very pretty on, but also extremely moisturizing! Available in 12 shades.

Visit http://weseebeauty.com/ to learn more and purchase.

Enjoy!

Stocking Stuffers For The Beauty Lover

Stocking stuffers are a fun way to treat the beauty-crazy girl in your life! There are so many price points that you can go with while shopping for stocking stuffers. And if you hurry, you can still get some of this shipped to your home!

A limited-edition “baby, it’s bold outside” exclusive curler and mascara set featuring tarte’s picture perfect™ eyelash curler and deluxe lights, camera, lashes!™ 4-in-1 mascara.

Product Performance: Our best-selling eyelash curler is dressed to the nines this Holiday season with an exclusive “baby, its bold outside” print silk-screened around the handles for a bold, colorful pop—making it the ultimate collector’s piece to display on your vanity. The curved angle and wide mouth suits all eye shapes without pinching or crimping. lights, camera, lashes!™ 4-in-1 mascara lengthens, curls, volumizes, and conditions for dramatic, thick and sexy lashes.

You can purchase this fun set at www.tartecosmetics.com

Jouer Sparkle & Pop ($12 for one $42 for a pack of four) — Inspired by a popular British tradition, Jouer introduces our version of a holiday cracker with Sparkle & Pop. This festive goodie is dressed in a beautiful pale pink box with sparkling gold confetti and a chic gift-tag for personalization. Jouer’s Sparkle & Pop makes the perfect stocking stuffer or holiday party favor containing five fun surprises including a special Jouer treat. Pop, open and enjoy!

FEATURES:

Party Horn Chic Cocktail Ring (*varying styles) Beauty Fortune (*varying messages) Mini Champagne Bubbles One of three Jouer Deluxe Samples: Body Butter (0.21 oz.), Essential Lip Enhancer (0.07 fl. oz.), Glisten Moisturizing Lip Gloss (0.06 fl. oz.)

This is such a fun gift! Purchase at jouercosmetics.com.

Crabtree and Evelyn Golden Fig Bubble Bath & Body Wash ($20 USD) —

Relax and rejuvenate during the busy holiday season with our Golden Fig Bubble Bath & Body Wash, which will surround you with luxuriously beautiful fragrance as it gently cleanses and moisturises for glamorously soft and supple skin.

Glycerine for added moisturising benefits
Soap-free and pH-balanced formula helps skin maintain natural moisture balance
100% naturally derived surfactant
Can be added to running water for a luxurious bubble bath
Formulated without parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, or mineral oil

Lather up in the shower or bath as the first step of your skin care ritual, and pair it with Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar for skin that is radiantly soft and beautifully scented.

Fragrance: A fragrance medley of fresh figs, grapefruit, apple, and black currents blended with cedar, sandalwood, golden amber, and musk accords.

Purchase at www.crabtree-evelyn.com.

Just in time for the holidays, TIGI is introducing the ultimate gift for every girl-on-the-go! Olympic gymnast and TIGI Spokesmodel Nastia Liukin created the perfect gift set featuring her four favorite TIGI cosmetics. Go for the gold this season and purchase Nastia’s picks at a special price ($25) at your local TIGI salon and receive a FREE cosmetics bag – a $90 value!

For local salon locations, visit www.tigi-cosmetics.com.

ELLE Cosmetics Face Primer ($30 USD) — Put your best face forward with this new lightweight and silky primer. Just a thin layer instantly preps skin for flawless makeup application and brightens complexions for an overall look that’s naturally luminous. The oil-free lotion is coupled with skin treatments and “optical effects” – light reflecting particles and soft vision powders – to help instantly smooth and even out skin tone and redness, creating the perfect base for makeup application. While you sit pretty, makeup does too.

Available exclusively at Kohl’s and Kohls.com nationwide.

Jane Cosmetics “The Friends of Jane” Lip Collection ($9.99 USD) — Give a gift that truly gives back.With every purchase of the Friends of Jane lip collection, sit pretty knowing that100% of the net proceeds support a charitable organization geared towards empowering women. Learn more about the difference each purchase makes at www.ShestheFirst.org.

These fun glosses are available at JaneCosmetics.com

LCN Mystique Burlesque Box Set ($29 USD) — This fun little box of polish includes these 4 colors:

Red Ruby – An elegant oxblood red

Emerald Green – A luxurious, velvety green

Blue Sapphire – A decadent metallic cobalt blue

Violet Amethyst – A deep, royal purple

These colors are perfect for the holidays and winter in general. They are deep and rich. Purchase at www.lcnboutique.com.

Daily Concepts Your Body Scrubber ($10 USD) is perfect for the person who loves to go to the gym (packaging allows for suctioning / hanging on walls so I don’t come in contact with… well, who knows what was there before you?)

Just the right texture for sloughing the skin, providing a bit of pampering versus one of torture for your skin / bathing regime.

Great to use if you’re in a hurry, or simply because you are environmentally conscious and trying to conserve water.

Your Body Scrubber is the perfect accompaniment for thinking and singing in the shower while the fabrics work thoroughly to keep you clean. (Plus the label indicator lets you know when Your Body Scrubber needs to be replaced.)

Texture: Regular (For all skin types)

Purchase at www.dailyconcepts.com.