My Beauty Favorites Week of May 25-May 31, 2015

I hope you all had a great weekend!  It rained in Kansas City most of the week, but was sunny today.  We took advantage of it by going to the zoo today.  It was so nice to be outside.

Each week in my favorites round-up this summer, I will try to include some type of sunscreen.  It is important to use sunscreen all year-long, but especially during the summer when the sun can be extreme and we are outside more!

My faves this week include anti-aging sunscreen, makeup for a flawless face, floral scents and detangling combs for summer hair.

What are you loving this week?  Leave a comment and share!

Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation Ultra-Light Repair SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream (approx. $44 USD) — A moisturizing sunscreen that helps repair the skin barrier while providing protection against harmful UV rays, with an exclusive blend of skin-identical ceramides and other ingredients that help diminish the appearance of the early signs of skin aging.

Obagi Medical Professional-C SPF 30 (approx. $54 USD) — UV rays and free radicals are two of the leading causes of skin damage and signs of aging. Obagi Professional-C Sunscare Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 defends against both of these harmful factors to help keep your complexion looking youthful. The formula also contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects the complexion against free radicals. Because the formula is lightweight and elegant, it does not leave skin feeling greasy or oily like many other sun protection products.

Obagi Rosaclear Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30 (approx. $56 USD) — This highly protective mineral sunscreen provides chemical-free protection against UVA and UVB damage. Designed with a soft tint, it effectively disguises redness, blotches and rosacea-related blemishes for a healthier-looking complexion.

What I think: Obagi skincare is very effective in combating aging.  All three of the above Obagi moisturizing sunscreens not only treat skin but protect it with SPF 30, which is so important for fighting aging and skin cancer.  The Gentle Rejuvenation SPF is great for moisturizing skin, the Professional-C can help repair skin damage and the Rosaclear is a mineral sunscreen that has a soft tint to it to help with redness.

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

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting ($42 USD) — More than primer = less dark spots! Makeup meets skincare with this primer revolution. 84% of women saw significant improvement in just 4 weeks with the clinically proven formula. It instantly brightens and primes to smooth the appearance of fine lines and pores, while fading dark spots and acne marks over time.

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation ($42 USD) — The special effects of Light Filter Technology and the performance of long-wear Photoset Polymers blend together to make this powder foundation magic. Not only does it act like your favorite photo filter on your phone, but it also stays true all day.

What I think: I still wear makeup in the summer, even on hot days, but I love products that are multitaskers.  These two Smashbox products certainly are that! The primer is moisturizer and a primer and the foundation is foundation and powder in one great product.  And they do work well together.  After my SPF, I apply the primer than the foundation and my base is done! Easy and flawless, just like I like my summer!

Available at http://www.smashbox.com

Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector 2-in-1 Foundation
Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector 2-in-1 Foundation

Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector 2-in-1 Foundation ($32 USD) — With Westmore Beauty’s Coverage Perfector, every woman can now easily experience Hollywood special effects in minutes–and with one product! It’s your sheer-to-full-coverage foundation and concealer in one that magically provides skin with the appearance of a flawless, airbrushed finish. Concealing everything with comfortable long-wearing coverage, the luxuriously creamy and hydrating formula provides a unique glow, leaving your skin looking radiant, and giving you the perfect skin appearance you’d expect from Hollywood celebrities walking the red carpet.

Coverage Perfector is formulated with a unique complex that helps to provide a beautiful glow to the skin. The Tri-Effects technology works on three connected levels of technology to help provide long-wear coverage, ultra comfort, and natural-looking radiance to the skin. This “special effect” will stay with you until you remove Coverage Perfector.

What I think:  I was so excited to try this!  I haven’t been using concealer lately, because I have been trying to scale down my daily makeup routine.  This product claims to be a concealer and foundation — and it is! I start by tapping it under my eyes for concealer, then I apply it on the rest of my face with the fabulous brush that is included.  Such a great product with a really good price!

Available at http://www.qvc.com

Conair Anti-static Detangling Comb
Conair Anti-static Detangling Comb

Conair Anti-static Detangling Comb ($3.29 USD) — Anti-static comb prevents flyaway problems. Detangle without causing split ends. Evenly distribute conditioner to hair ends. Use with any hair type for volume. For wet or dry styling.

What I think: I have been using this comb on myself (and my daughters) after baths and during styling.  Leaves my hair smooth and soft!

Available at mass market retailers near you.

 

Essence of Beauty Rose Enhancement Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Escape to a vibrant and lush rose garden with top notes of bergamot and radiant orange, mid notes of strawberry, elegant rose and geranium bloom, and base notes of garden rhubarb, sunshine daisy and dewy musk.

Essence of Beauty Luscious Peony Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Pretty and playful, Luscious Peony evokes lavish floral gardens in full bloom, bursting with freshness.  Sparkling white grapefruit and bergamot blend with notes of soft rose petals, perfectly accentuated by peony, wild poppy and magnolia to create this refreshing, vibrant fragrance.

What I think:  Now that our peonies and roses are blooming, it is fun to have similar fragrances to wear that will last all year long (unlike the flowers themselves)! Both of these smell really fresh and are so affordable, and because they are body mists, they will last a long time

Purchase at http://www.cvs.com

 

My Beauty Faves Week of April 6-12, 2015

Last week went by so fast!  I went to two weddings this weekend and it was so busy.  So, I am putting out my end of week review a day late!

This week, I have been loving a random mix of items — a blurring primer, a smoky eye shadow trio, a yummy weight loss drink and a cute hair band!

Lumene Bright Now Blur Line and Pore Minimizer
Lumene Bright Now Blur Line and Pore Minimizer

Lumene Bright Now Blur Line and Pore Minimizer ($19.99 USD) — The new Lumene Bright Now Blur Line & Pore Minimizer makes skin instantly more beautiful and even-looking. Helps to control shine and optically diminishes the appearance of fine lines and pores. Skin looks and feels instantly more soft and supple. The innovative texture of the product helps the skin look flawless even longer and keeps skin matte and shine free all day long while delivering a brighter and more radiant look. Oil-Free formulation.

What I think: This is my new favorite primer! Just a little goes a long way to smooth out pores and lines and to make a great base for makeup.  I wear it everyday underneath my foundation and my skin looks great all day!

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio in Cover Shoot
Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio in Cover Shoot

Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio in Cover Shoot ($28 USD) — Our fab trios are all playfulness and color! Get rich, bold hues in just one swipe. Each includes 3 coordinated shadows-base shade, contour color and highlighter-so you’ll never wonder which shades to wear together again. You’ll even find application tips on the peel-back label.

What I think:  Hello perfect brown smoky eye! These colors are so pretty and can make either a very dramatic eye or a soft every day look.  The top two shades are shimmer and the darkest shade is a matte — you can use it as an eyeliner as well!

Learn more and purchase at http://www.smashbox.com

Celsius Flo Fusion On-the-Go in Berry
Celsius Flo Fusion On-the-Go in Berry

Celsius Flo Fusion On-the-Go in Berry — a great tasting drink for your active, healthy lifestyle. Studies show that drinking Flo Fusion™ before moderate exercise helps you burn up to 100 calories and more per serving, boosts metabolism, burns up to 93% more body fat, increases endurance and provides lasting energy to accelerate your transformation no matter what diet or training routine you are on. The great tasting Flo Fusion™ Transformation Accelerator Powder has the same benefits as the “ready to drink” Celsius and is available in Berry or Orange flavor.

What I think:  I have tried both Berry and Orange a few times before a workout.  Both flavors are good, I think I like orange better, but that’s just personal preference.  I notice that I get good workout energy with these drinks.  I don’t know if it’s helped me lose weight, but I am going to continue using them and see.

Learn more at http://www.celsius.com and purchase at http://www.amazon.com. Prices vary.

Dauphines of New York Front Row Darling
Dauphines of New York Front Row Darling

Dauphines of New York Front Row Darling Headband ($24 USD) — This glamorous, adjustable hair headband provides tailored fit, comfort, and ease of wear, allowing the creation of multiple hair looks. The timeless and design features an elegant leather centerpiece, miniature crystals on a silver base, a gunmetal link chain, and engraved hardware for the perfect accent piece to almost any outfit. The versatile design can be worn by anyone and the colors complement most hair shades. The included instruction card helps create easy-to-model hair looks.

What I think: This is so cute!  I received a sample and gave it to my daughter who is really into the boho look, and she wears it all of the time.  It is made very well and is so easy to adjust.  And she gets lots of compliments.  I also think it is perfect for women of all ages who want a fun look for a night out.

Purchase at http://www.sephora.com

What have you been loving lately?  Leave a comment and let me know!  I would love to know what my readers have been trying.

My Beauty Faves Week of January 12-18, 2015 — SkinnyStix, Emjoi, Korres, Smashbox and Lumene

It was a beautiful day in Kansas City today!  Over 50 degrees and sunny, so my family and I went to the Kansas City Zoo.  I sure got my FitBit steps in today and am feeling great! The products that I am loving this week include a drink to help give me energy, a fantastic pedi tool, a moisturizing body butter, hydrating face powder and capsules to make my skin glow.

Zantrex® SkinnyStix® Berry Fusion
Zantrex® SkinnyStix® Berry Fusion

Zantrex® SkinnyStix® Berry Fusion ($29.99 for 21 stix and bottle) — For increased energy, mood elevation, heightened stamina and improved focus, adults mix entire contents of 1 SkinnyStix packet in 16 fl. oz. of water and drink or sip as desired. For powerful appetite control and weight loss, adults mix entire contents of 1 SkinnyStix packet in 16 fl. oz. of water and drink the entire serving 15 minutes before main meals. Do not exceed 3 SkinnyStix per day. Use in conjunction with any sensible diet and exercise program. Individual results will vary. What I think:  I have started to eat better and exercise more this year, and like drinking one of these a day to help give me energy and boost my mood.  It does work for me.  But, I cannot take more than one a day, because I am a bit sensitive to caffeine.  I also make sure that I only drink half-calf or decaf coffee when I have a SkinnyStix. Available at http://www.zantrex3.com

Emjoi Micro-Pedi
Emjoi Micro-Pedi

Emjoi Micro-Pedi ($29.99 USD) — This battery-operated foot buffer is ideal for at-home pedicures and is a safe alternative to harsh, metal scrapers.  Micro-Pedi’s spinning rollers quickly and easily buff away rough, callused skin on feet to reveal supple, touchable feet.

  • Removes rough, dry and calloused skin from feet in seconds
  • Unique roller spins 360 degrees for fast results
  • Battery operated
  • Revolutionary device takes the chore out of smoothing skin on your feet.
  • Gently and effectively buffs away rough, dry and calloused skin in seconds.
  • Safer and more effective than metal scrapers and easier than a pumice stone
  • Rubberized easy grip
  • Battery operated (requires 2 x AA batteries – not included)

What I think: This works so well!  It is very easy to use, just roll it over the rough patches of your feet and in a few minutes you get soft, smooth feet!  My feet are usually so dry and rough during the winter, but they look summer ready now!

Available at CVS pharmacies and http://www.cvs.com.  Don’t for get to join CVS’s Beauty Club for rewards.  The Facebook and Twitter handle is @CVSBeautyClub

Korres Fig Body Butter
Korres Fig Body Butter

Korres Fig Body Butter ($29 USD) — beautifully scented, creamy body butters that are enriched with shea butter and quince extract to soften, moisturize, and rejuvenate the skin. Sunflower, almond, and avocado oils nourish, thus helping to improve elasticity and smoothness. Available in seven fabulous scents, Korres Body Butter deeply moisturizes and can be used all over the body. Available in Basil Lemon, Fig, Japanese Rose, Jasmine, Yoghurt, Vanilla Guava and Guava. What I think:  I love how moisturizing the Korres Body Butters are!  They come in seven scents.  I have Fig and it smells just like the fresh fruits. Available at http://www.sephora.com

Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder
Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder

Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder ($49 USD) — It’s the first anti-aging powder with the science of skin care built in! This advanced formulation of pure gold, 48 minerals, 11 amino acids and a powerful peptide delivers dynamic anti-aging benefits, while the patented hydration system continuously revitalizes skin for a brighter, more radiant complexion all day. For the perfect amount of fresh powder every time, simply twist the shaver, swirl brush into powder and apply to face. What I think:  I love this powder!  I have been using it over my foundation to set and to add extra coverage.  It applies so smoothly and melts into the skin, but does not settle in to pores or lines.  I have it in light, which is the perfect match for my skin.  I am going to try it without foundation when the weather gets warmer.  I think it will work well as a lighter foundation. Available at http://www.smashbox.com and fine beauty stores.

Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C+ Beauty Drops
Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C+ Beauty Drops

Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C+ Beauty Drops ($21.99 USD) — Arctic cloudberry seed oil combined with highly effective vitamin C and lingonberry seed oil boosts radiance and brightens the skin with a long-lasting effect. Special formula releases vitamin C slowly into the skin making its effect last longer. Suitable for all skin types. 28 capsules. For external use only. What I think: I have been using these little oil capsules at night in place of my serum.  They sink into the skin well and in the morning my skin is glowing. I’m going to keep using them every night to see if my skin continues to look younger! Learn more at http://www.lumene.com

Makeup Picks For Marsala — Pantone’s 2015 Color of the Year

Marsala — not just a type of wine, it’s Pantone’s 2015 Color of the Year! This is a gorgeous rich shade that makes a statement, but is really wearable.

Below are lip, eyes and cheek picks for this hot color!

CARGO Cosmetics Essential Lip Color ($22 USD) — A smooth, creamy and lightweight formula that offers high pigment payoff while leaving lips plump and perfectly hydrated throughout the day. Olive oil, Shea Butter and Jojoba oil provide essential moisture while plumping peptides offer instant fullness.

CARGO Cosmetics Matte Top Coat ($22 USD) — Transform your favorite satin finish lip color into a luxurious suede-like finish in one stoke. Clear, no color top coat in stick form that instantly transforms satin or shiny lip color to a matte finish.

What I think:  This lipstick is a gorgeous color!  I usually don’t wear dark lipstick, but I am loving this, especially with the matte top coat over it.  It makes it look more wearable and softer.

Available at http://www.cargocosmetics.com

 Palladio Eyeshadow Quad in Spellbound
Palladio Eyeshadow Quad in Spellbound

Palladio Eyeshadow Quad in Spellbound ($8 USD)Swipe on this shade to lids for an evening look perfect for a night out. Give an intense smoky eye or just add some color to your look with a shade that looks great on blonde, brunettes and even red heads!

What I think: This is a pretty palette that will match well with gorgeous Marsala lipsticks.  It has fairly good pigment, but needs a couple of layers.

Available at mass market retailers and www.palladiobeauty.com.

SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Shimmering Marsala Cheek Trio
SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Shimmering Marsala Cheek Trio

SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Shimmering Marsala Cheek Trio ($28 USD) — This limited-edition cheek set is a portable and perfect solution for adding a pop of color to everyday makeup and providing instant glow to cheek bones. The powders are created through a triple jet milled process that allows for intense color payoff and a velvety texture that leaves skin feeling luxurious, but never heavy. The unique blend of naturally derived oils and powders enhance the skin’s overall appearance with a sophisticated shimmer for a radiant glow without glitter.

Designed to evoke the sleek, modern lines of the iconic Pantone Chip, and newly imagined with a captivating Marsala ombre color variation, 2015’s Color of the Year Collection makes a stunning presentation. Each product features Sephora Collection’s high performance formulas for rich color payoff and luxurious feel during wear. Refined finishes like matte, cream, metallic, and lacquer allow for a fuller expression of this bold nude shade, from sheer luminosity to wildly rich pigments.

What I think:  I haven’t tried this, but I think the colors are gorgeous and look very versatile.  The lightest color would be a pretty highlighter and the darkest would contour well.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

 

Smashbox Be Legendary Long-Wear Lip Lacquer in Bordeaux
Smashbox Be Legendary Long-Wear Lip Lacquer in Bordeaux

Smashbox Be Legendary Long-Wear Lip Lacquer in Bordeaux ($24 USD) — Say hello to the next-generation of lip color, BE LEGENDARY LONG WEAR LIP LACQUER—the new boundary-pushing formula that delivers maximum high-lacquered color with major comfort—all day long.  Goes on as a lacquer, then uniquely adjusts to a stain for 8 hours of long-lasting color.

What I think:  This is another gorgeous dark Marsala shade.  It goes on easily and wears for hours.

Avaialble at http://www.smashbox.com

 

Last Minute Beauty Stocking Stuffers

Still stuffing stockings?  I am!  I have compiled a list of great stocking stuffers for the beauty conscious lady — and man — in your life! Pick your fave one, two or three and gift beautifully!

jane iredale Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow
jane iredale Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow

jane iredale Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow ($17 each) — For a festive stocking stuffer, try the smooth and luxurious Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow available in two new Limited Edition shimmering shades: Opal Silk, a shimmery opalescent white and Gold Silk, a shimmery sheer gold. This quick-drying liquid eye shadow has a smooth and luxurious formula that will not crease or smear, and helps to camouflage shadows and veins on the eyelid. The new shades can be used alone, beneath powder eye shadow for added intensity, for over powder eye shadow for a high shimmer effect.

These are so pretty!  They are shimmery, but very wearable.  I wore the gold one all over my eyelid today and it was a sheer wash of color. LOVE!

Available at http://www.janeiredale.com

L'Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats
L’Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats

L’Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats ($24, on sale on the website for $20) — A nourishing set of Shea Butter hand and foot cream – a nice surprise to hang on the tree.

My favorite hand cream and a foot cream, too?!  Awesome gift!

Available at http://www.usa.loccitane.com and fine beauty stores

VOLANTÉ Transformative Eye Crème
VOLANTÉ Transformative Eye Crème

VOLANTÉ Transformative Eye Crème ($85) — The endless holiday nights and late last-minute gift shopping never looked so good with this feather-light crème infused with peptides, clinically proven to help reduce dark circles.  Powered by the 7 VITAE Complex, this crème improves the tone, texture and brightness of the skin around the eye.

This is a great luxury cream for someone special, or for yourself!  Available at volanteskincare.com.

Burt's Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Deodorant
Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Deodorant

Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Deodorant ($8 USD) — Go ahead and strut your stuff. Made from an odor-fighting botanical, our powerful natural deodorant harnesses energizing Citrus Oils, woodsy Cyprus and Warm Fir to keep you smelling and feeling your best. Bring on the day.

My husband’s stocking is always the hardest one for me.  He is going to love this deodorant, it smells fantastic!  And the line also includes bar soap, body wash, shave cream and aftershave, and a nice gift set, too!

Available at http://www.burtsbees.com and mass market retailers near you.

Beauticontrol Moisturizing Body Bar - Juicy Pear
Beauticontrol Moisturizing Body Bar – Juicy Pear

Moisturizing Body Bar Juicy Pear ($10 or $26 for all three) — A trio of tantalizingly scented body bars are perfect for all skin types. They luxuriously wash away dirt, oil and dead skin cells, leaving skin refreshed and soft. Available in three delicious scents: Exotic Beaches, Juicy Pear and Verbena Blossom.

These smell fantastic and make great gifts for moms and sisters (and friends, etc…)

Available at http://www.beauticontrol.com

Smashbox Be Legendary Lip Gloss
Smashbox Be Legendary Lip Gloss

Smashbox Be Legendary Lip Gloss ($20 USD) — Inspired by photo gels found on set, Smashbox created this glassy gloss with a clear, hydrating base free of traditional heavy binders for a non-sticky finish. Then they infused the formula slowly with vibrant pigments using a careful mixing process for an ultra refined pigmentation in which all of the gloss ingredients are perfectly dispersed. The result is a superlight, comfortable blend that you can hardly feel, but that still leaves a bold wash of gorgeous color—just like a photo gel.

Gorgeous gloss in an array of colors for every lady!

Available at http://www.smashbox.com and luxe beauty stores nationwide.

 

Chase Away The Winter Blahs With New Makeup And Nail Shades

It Cosmetics Luxe Eyeshadow Palette

It Cosmetics Luxe Eyeshadow Palette ($38 USD) — 12 Luxe Waterproof High Performance Eyeshadows with Age Reverse and Prevent Complex packed with hydrating and skin loving ingredients. Working hand in hand with leading plastic surgeons, IT Cosmetics introduces “Anti-Aging” Luxe Eyeshadow Palette with Brush. This naturally pretty collection of 12 Waterproof and highly pigmented eye shadows are comprised of twelve separate hand-selected trio of desert island must have shades designed to bring out your eye color and sparkle! Hydrating and skin loving ingredients give you high performance color that lasts all day, plus anti-aging benefits for younger looking, naturally pretty eyes! Each ultra luxe shadow is infused with an ultra-hydrating age reverse and preventative complex including hydrolyzed collagen, green tea, acai and Vitamins A, C & E. Talc, paraben, sulfate, mineral oil, petrolatum, synthetic fragrance, and phthalate free. Hypo-allergenic and non-comedogenic.

This palette has a good mix of dramatic shades as well as shadows for every day looks. The dark shades make great eye liners as well. Purchase at http://www.itcosmetics.com

Smashbox Waterproof Shadow Liner

Smashbox Waterproof Shadow Liner ($22 USD) — Stay-put shadow and long-wearing liner in one-there’s even a built-in smudger! Give eyes soft definition wherever, whenever with this travel-friendly, mistake-proof shadow liner. The creamy, waterproof formula glides on effortlessly for lasting look possibilities.

• Totally waterproof, crease-resistant formula
• Smudge as a liner or blend as a shadow for all-over, longwearing color
• Light-reflecting pearls give high-drama color and shimmer, while emollients create a silky, creamy texture

I have been enjoying the pretty copperish brown shade Luminous Fig. It is soft and great for every day, but there are darker and brighter shades, too! Available at http://www.smashbox.com

Clark’s Botanicals Ultra Rich Lip Tints

Clark’s Botanicals Ultra Rich Lip Tints ($19 USD) — Using an intensely hydrating formula of natural moisturizers (including Shea Butter, Aloe Leaf Extract, Jojoba and Sweet Almond Oil) and Marine Collagen Microspheres that act like miniature water reservoirs, CB’s Ultra Rich Lip Tints deliver intense, long-lasting hydration. Vanilla Planifolia and Jasmine Extracts add a delectable flavor that will have you re-applying—even when you don’t need to! They are available in 6 shades: Alexandra Rose, Carlotta Pink, Madge Mauve, Rachel Red, Moore Nude, and Because I Love You.

I have Alexandra Rose. It is so pretty(maybe a great Valentine’s Day gift idea?), a fresh medium shimmery pink gloss that is also good for your lips! Available at http://www.clarksbotanicals.com

China Glaze Cirque du Soleil Worlds Away

The new China Glaze® “Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away” ($7 USD Each)inspired nail polish collection will bring to life the wonderfully exotic artistry that is presented throughout the film. The China Glaze® nail polish collection combines rich crèmes, soft shimmers and bold glitters to create 12 limited edition shades including:

• Whirled Away – Black and white collage glitter
• It’s a Trap-eze – White cream base with multi glitter
• Escaping Reality – Neon raspberry pink
• Surreal Appeal – Rich coral crème
• Def Defying – Lime green crème
• Running in Circles – Cilantro green shimmer
• Hanging in the Balance – Cerulean blue crème
• Water You Waiting For – Shimmering blue green purple
• Creative Fantasy – Grape neon
• Bend Over Backwards – Pepper red shimmer
• Igniting Love – Hot tamale red crème
• Get Carried Away – Multi-sized black and red collage glitter with black crème

I love mixing the creme’s with the glitters. The colors are fun and bright — perfect to perk up the winter blahs! Visit http://www.chinaglaze.com to learn more.

China Glaze Tranzitions

Another fun China Glaze Collection is Tranzitions. China Glaze® Tranzitions’ revolutionary new nail lacquer reacts when a clear top coat is applied,

changing the color from one shade to another for a stunning effect. Wear any of the six beautiful,
color-shifting shades alone, or allow your creativity to run wild and create intricate nail designs by
applying a top coat in specific places. Try different looks using nail art brushes, free-hand designs
or nail guides. Because each shade changes color, you get two lacquers in one, creating an
entirely new look with just one swipe.

The China Glaze® Tranzitions collection features six shades, though with the color transition, you

get 12 unique shades including:

• Split Perso-NAIL-ity – Dusty pink shifts to fuchsia
• Duplicityy – Mint green shifts to vibrant teal
• Modify Me – Periwinkle blue shifts to indigo blue
• Altered Reality – Teal blue shifts to turquoise
• Metallic Metamorphosis – Silvery grey shifts to bluish-charcoal grey
• Shape Shifter – Smokey violet shifts to dark purple

How It Works:
Step 1: Apply a base coat.
Step 2: Apply two coats of China Glaze® Tranzitions shade of choice. Allow to completely dry.
Step 3: Lastly, apply one coat of clear top coat such as China Glaze® Fast Forward and watch the color change right before your eyes.

These are very cool, but when you apply the top coat, the darker shade is a little streaky. I think it would take practice to master a perfect look, but really fun to try! Visit http://www.chinaglaze.com to learn more.

Enjoy your new look!

Smize Big With New Fall Eye Products!

Yes, I am watching the new season of America’s Next Top Model, but more importantly, my big brown eyes look fab with my new fall eye products!  My fave’s are:

Eye Majic Instant Eye Shadow ($2.49 for 2 in a box, $$5.75 for 5 $10.95 for 10) and — is the first “hold-and-press” eye shadow applicator that imparts high-pigment colors so anyone can achieve precise, flawless, eyeshadow looks in 10 seconds!

These are very easy to use.  Just press on lid, then take an eye shadow brush to blend it in around the edges.  Fun and really cool!  Currently there are 15 different kits that include matte and pearl colors options. Purchase at www.eyemajic.com.

 

Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio

Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio ($28 USD) A color-coordinated eye shadow trio. Create beautiful eyes effortlessly with Smashbox’s award-winning eye shadow trios. These perfectly coordinated hues take the guesswork out of choosing what shades to wear together.  Each trio features a base, contour, and highlight shade for mistake-proof application. Plus, three shades in one pot equal a travel-friendly necessity for the girl on the go. Peel back the shade label for easy-to-follow Get-the-Look application tips.

The palette above is called Shutterspeed.  It has been my everyday look for over a week now.  The gray with the beige colors is so pretty!  But if this isn’t the color combo for you, there are 16 to choose from! Purchase at www.smashboxcosmetics.com or www.sephora.com.

Pixi Beauty Shade Quartette

Pixi Beauty Shade Quartette ($22 USD) — A tone-on-tone wheel of coordinated shades for the ultimate natural eye.  Custom mixed formulas from satin to iridescent are super silky and give instant lustre. Suit-all shades transition easily from day to night and blend like a dream. With added coated mineral pigments to reflect the light plus good-for-you nutrients.

This is available in 3 natural palettes — Shades of Nude, Shades of Peach and Shades of Taupe (left to right in photo above).  I have the Shades of Peach which is soft and shimmery on — perfect for the current trend of pale, sheer eyeshadow.  Pare it with a strong eyeliner, lots of mascara and a stronger lip — pretty for fall!   You can purchase at Target stores or www.pixibeauty.com.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Eye & Cheek Palette

Tarte Amazonian Clay Eye & Cheek Palette ($44 USD) — A stylish mirrored clutch featuring eye and cheek essentials formulated with Tarte’s biggest beauty breakthrough: Amazonian clay.  So pretty you’ll want to take it out of your purse for frequent touch-ups, this faux-snakeskin adorned palette contains six Amazonian clay eye shadows that deliver the perfect amount of creamy matte perfection or subtle shimmer.  Also inside are two Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blushes in one original, bestselling shade and one new shade. Amazonian clay works to nourish lids, reduce surface oil, and improve overall texture for easy application and better wear.

Tarte has some of the best wearing shadows out there.  Highly pigmented and so long-lasting.  The colors in this Palette can be used for day or night — just change up the colors.  The blushes are super pretty as well, but be careful — a little goes a long way!  Available at www.sephora.com.

Smashbox Image Factory Waterproof Shadow Liner

Smashbox Waterproof Shadow Liner ($22 USD) A stay-put waterproof eye shadow and long-wearing liner in one. Give eyes soft definition wherever, whenever with this travel-friendly, mistake-proof shadow liner. The creamy waterproof formula glides on effortlessly for endless possibilities.  Smudge as a liner or blend as a shadow with included smudger for allover, longwearing color. Light-reflecting pearls give high-drama color and shimmer, while emollients create a silky, creamy texture.

I have been using this liner in Metallic Bronze.  It is so versatile and easy.  I apply the liner as a shadow and smudge it all over my lid, then line my upper and lower lids with the same pencil.  So pretty for day or night!  Purchase at www.smashboxcosmetics.com or www.sephora.com.

Face Stockholm Lash Booster

Face Stockholm Lash Booster ($34 USD) — Get noticeably longer, thicker and fuller lashes after only one day of use! This revolutionary, strengthening and lengthening mascara with Booster Complex – a blend of rich vegetable waxes and polymers – nourishes and stimulates the growth of eyelashes.

Use Lash Booster as your everyday mascara for at least 60 consecutive days and get clinically-proven, measurable results:  lashes up to 1.5 mm longer and 15% fuller!

I have been using for only a week.  I have noticed that the mascara lengthens and thickens my lashes, but it has not been long enough to notice lash growth.  If I do in a couple of months, I will let you know!  The good news is that it is not irritating my extremely sensitive eyes (lash growth products usually do!) Purchase at www.facestockholm.com.

Enjoy your beautiful eyes!

 

New Beauty.Com Gift With Purchase May 2012

This limited edition offering arrives complete with more than a dozen deluxe and full-size samples from some of the leading brands at the Beauty.com® web store* including:

1.            Smashbox® Camera Ready BB Cream, SPF 35

2.            Arcona® White Tea Purifying Cleanser

3.            NUXE™ Fondant Body Scrub

4.            Stila® Prime Pot Waterproof Eye Shadow Primer, Taffy

5.            Fekkai® Brilliant Glossing Cream

6.            tarte® rise & shine natural lip stain & lip-enhancing lipgloss – FULL SIZE

7.            DDF® Amplifying Elixir

8.            Nick Chavez® Volumizing Shampoo

9.            ~H2O+™ Spa Hand and Nail Cream

10.         Boscia® Green Tea Blotting Linens

11.         bareMinerals® Purely Nourishing Moisturizer for Combination Skin

12.         IT Cosmetics® Bye Bye Under Eye – Full Coverage Waterproof Concealer

13.         Murad® Time Release Retinol Concentrate for Deep Wrinkles

14.         Card for $5 off any future Beauty.com purchase

About Beauty.com – The World of Beauty Online®

Beauty.com, Inc. is a leading online destination for prestige beauty products. The web store provides a highly personalized shopping experience and offers more than 350 brands from widely recognized to niche, hard-to-find products.

The bag is a Lela Rose creation.  Lela Rose’s aesthetic of adding whimsy to elegance through brilliant color and hand crafted details has brought a fresh view to modern American fashion. Lela was raised in Texas and went to school in Colorado where nature, its surrounding landscapes, and the sublime colors it offers have long been an inspiration. Today, Lela continues to draw from these early influences as she designs clothes for the modern sophisticated woman who embodies a spirit of effortless elegance.

I think that this is a great collection of samples (and a really cool makeup bag).  I have been dying to try Smashbox’s BB Cream.  I may review this once I receive the sample.  Also, the Stila eye primer looks promising — I haven’t tried an eye primer in a pot before.  And a full-sized tarte lip stain — awesome!

Visit www.beauty.com to purchase.  Enjoy!

Spring Giveaway 2 Winner!!!

And the winner is…Lynn!  Congrats Lynn!  You have won the Spring makeup from Smashbox, Mirabella, Aveda and Julep.  I will be contacting you soon to get your contact info.

I will be having another giveaway in another month or two.  Stay tuned and thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway and everyone who reads my blog.  You rock!

Spring Giveaway #2

Announcing my second Spring Giveaway — a collection of products from Mirabella, Smashbox, Aveda and Julep.  These are vibrant cooler shades that will brighten your spring!

The products are:

Mirabella Colour Luxe Lip Gloss in Wink (Bright Shimmery Pink)  creates maximum shine with three-dimensional, light-reflecting shimmer. The combination of iridescent and pearlescent pearls create a star-like effect on the lips, taking Colour Luxe gloss to a new level of color purity, brightness and dimensionality. Vitamin-enriched long-lasting formula moisturizes, conditions, and provides antioxidant protection and anti-aging properties.

Smashbox Soft Lights in Shimmer (Shimmery Nude Bronze) — Get a gorgeous lit-from-within glow with this silk-like shimmering powder. The illuminating formula softens the way light reflects on your skin and wakes up your complexion for a radiant look.

Aveda Petal Essence™ Eye Color Trio in Violet Coast (lavender, gray and purple) Long-lasting, petal-smooth powder eye shadows offer crease-resistant, stay-true colors. Wear a single shade or blend several—complementary colors make it easy.

Julep Nail Color in Megan a playful and sultry Mediterranean aquamarine shimmer.

To win, leave a comment on my blog.  I will choose the winner on Friday, April 20th.  Please only residents of the United States and Canada.

Good Luck!