On the Wishlist!

Christmas gift to myself this year....

Urban Decay's Naked Basics Palette
http://www.sephora.com/naked-basics-palette-P376213?skuId=1458157

Very excited to try this one out!!  The Naked palettes line by Urban decay is a HUGE best seller for several reasons.  They make the most wearable colors all in one set, the array of shadows blend well together, they are rich in pigment, and one little portable case has every eyeshadow you could want for a day to night look!

That being said...I do not own a Naked palette.  Naked (1) has been around for some time and Naked2 made its debut earlier this year.  The second naked swapped out a few more basic colors from the first.  Why don't I have a Naked palette yet?  Well...because I kinda hate palettes!!  I don't like little windows of eyeshadow all in one package because typically I'm just not going to use all of them.  I usually will stick to 1 or 2 and then the rest is a waste.  And most of the time, you can get that exact shade you use more frequently in its own little pot!

However, along came Naked Basics...and that means along came my favorite types of shadows....MATTE!!!!!!  See earlier posts on where I rant and rave about how I love everything Matte!

This palette has your everyday basic shadows all in one place. For the smoky eye look, the golden taupe look, the pink look, the natural crease look, the fully awake look, and even slight concealing and setting! (Yes, I made up some of those names but I can picture in my mind what the look is, and can send pics and info if you so desire :).  Naked Basics may not translate to night if you want some shimmer, however, any well blended shade can be enhanced by a separate shimmery topping...a little frosting on top as I like to call it!

I plan to buy it soon...review to come!

 

Luxury is for Babies Too!!

Before and after the birth of my daughter...baby products have been very high on my shopping list.  And not just any product...the BEST, SAFEST, and MOST LUXURIOUS!  Considering how much time, effort, and money I put into the products I buy for myself, how can I not want the absolute best for my little one?!

We all know baby skin is super duper sensitive and so only the most natural and gentle products will do.  However, gone are the days where Johnson and Johnson ruled the market...as now you can find literally 100s and 100s of babies and kids goodies online and in stores. 

Here are some of my favorites.  There are actually many more brands that I use, but these are probably my most favorite.  I did not include a description on each of them because I love them all for basically the same things.
They are:
- Organic and/or Natural
- No: Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates
- Gentle
- No odd scents or odors
- They do what they claim to

Sunscreen
LaVanilla The Healthy Baby Block 
http://www.lavanila.com/The-Healthy-Baby-Block-SPF-40_p_64.html

Bath Wash
J.R. Watkins Baby Wash
http://www.jrwatkins.com/jrwatkins/productdetail.cfm?Store=E4C33ACF-2542-3708-4D6BFDC7F0F83A31&Group=6DBA1EAA-C3FF-9D4B-27B50DAC3218953F&Family=86DAEA1B-A5E2-0152-969B8EC38B5C7D4C&Product=FDF0D01E-B3F4-D181-40C7E187A5B8C94C&Country=Usa

Diaper Cream
Burt's Bees Baby Bee Diaper Ointment
http://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/baby-mom-diaper-care/baby-bee-diaper-ointment.html

Shampoo
Earth's Best Tear-Free Shampoo
http://www.earthsbest.com/products/product/7852200735

Lotion
LaVanilla The Healthy Baby Lotion
http://www.sephora.com/the-healthy-baby-lotion-P261605

Bug Spray (you never know)
California Baby Natural Bug Blend Bug Repellent
http://www.californiababy.com/natural-bug-blend-bug-repellent-spray-6-5-oz.html

Face/Nose Wipes
Yes to Carrots Face and Nose Wipes
http://www.yestocarrots.com/product/face--nose-wipes?product_id=4421009

Hand Sanitizer
BabyGanics The Germinator
http://www.babyganics.com/Hand_Sanitizer_250ml_The_Germinator

True Beauty!

Nothing like seeing your baby girl start to love all the same things you do!  In this case...that would be makeup!  ...Much to the hubby's dismay. ;)

The Beauty of Giving

'Tis the season to give!  And there's nothing better than doing your part (however big or small) in helping those who need it most.  Even better...shopping for and buying beauty products that then turn around and donate a portion or even all proceeds to a great charity!

If you are going to give to yourself, why not make sure it also helps out a worthy cause!  There are many, many products out there that participate in charitable profit donations...and here are some of my favorites!

MAC Viva Glam Lipstick
http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/8376/20927/New-Collections/Viva-Glam/Lips/Viva-Glam-Nicki/index.tmpl

It's a deep pink that may not suit everyone but you can blend it with other colors or glosses to suit your skin tone.  Best part - long wearing and a soft creamy consistency.  Even better part...EVERY PENNY goes to those affected and living with HIV and Aids.












Philosophy Shower for the Cure
http://www.philosophy.com/charity-shower-gel/00560700,en_US,pd.html

A light, relaxing scent that doubles as a spa-like experience in your own home!  And...ALL proceeds go to breast cancer research!












Lush Charity Pot
http://www.lushusa.com/Charity-Pot/02674,en_US,pd.html

Super duper soft body butter that will leave you moisturized for days! EVERY CENT goes to carefully selected humanitarian, environmental and animal rights charities.












Clarins Feed 10 Set
http://www.clarinsusa.com/FEED-10-Set/0012040,en_US,pd.html?start=3

I call Clarins the medicine of beauty as they make some very good "treatments" for several skin concerns.
Each purchase of $40 provides 10 school meals through the United Nations World Food Programme.  The set includes deluxe travel sizes of Beauty Flash Balm, UV Plus HP SPF 40 Day Screen, Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector (01 Rose Shimmer), Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch.










These are just a few of my newest favorites.  There are so many more out there.  Give a little, get a little!!!

VOTING for Beauty!

Election day is upon us!  It's a great time for people to come together, share their views, and make individual impact on this great country we live in!

And while it's not nearly as life-changing, voting for your favorite beauty products is super fun and super helpful to all us product junkies!!

This post is just to show some of my favorite "Best of" lists that change year to year.  They are great to check out year round when you are looking for a specific product and don't know what to try.  The confidence of beauty editors opinions and those of the general public are always a good place to start.  Even more fun, is when the lists open up voting and you get to chime in with your "bests". 

http://www.allure.com/beauty-products/readers-choice/2012/2012-readers-choice-awards#slide=1


http://www.instyle.com/instyle/best-beauty-buys/


http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/beauty-awards-2012


Always fun to know you use something everyone else loves too! 

My new favorite word is FLAWLESS!

It's a magical world that leads one to imagine perfection.  Not just any perfection...complexion perfection!  I cant think of a higher compliment than the use of the word flawless...whether it describes your face, hair, outfit, work ethic, personality...we all try to achieve flawless!!

How to achieve that flawless feeling on your skin?...that's where I come in to help!  And so does Laura Mercier.  (See prior post on how the Laura Mercier face is the best)

Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Face Polish
http://www.sephora.com/flawless-skin-face-polish-P280925

Got it as a sample and HAD to pick up a full size ASAP!  It's a total facial in a bottle.  You will never find such rich exfoliating qualities with a gentle touch.  Think St. Ives Apricot Scrub without the harshness.  It has the same type of little scrubbers but with a more silky feeling after use. 










And its not only for the ladies! My husband, who only likes face washes with micro scrubbers, and is a true St. Ives lover...couldn't get enough of this product.  It's got the perfect balance of dead skin removal properties and softness enhancers. 

Use flawless, look flawless, feel flawless!

I Scream for Cream Eyeshadow!

My new obsession...creamy eyeshadows!   I love them, love them, love them!!!  They stay on FOREVER!...or at least all day long with no need to re-apply.  You can use them as a base or primer and then add a powdery shadow, or just use them alone for the perfect amount of color that never strays from wear you applied it! 

It took me a while to accept cream eyeshadows into my makeup bag because I felt like the consistency would never quite work on the subtle eyelid look I usually wear.   But I decided to give them a try when I found some brands that had matte shades in their line.  If you've read my earlier posts...you know I love everything matte!!  And with all that matte love...the first one I tried was not matte at all.  I figured it would be a fun shade for evening with the hope that I would like the consistency enough to buy some matte ones later. 

So first I gave this one a try...

Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Cream Eyeshadow
http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-Amazonian-clay-waterproof-cream-eyeshadow

I bought seashell pink.  Its a beautiful, subtle pink with just the right amount of shimmer!  It gives the eye area a little pick-me-up that never falls back down again.  The shimmery flecks are minimal so you can wear it night or day, although I prefer to "save my shimmer" for the night.   There are 5 colors in the line (none matte), all beautiful!  They blend easily and do not crease the way powdery formulas quickly do. 










So after my love affair with creamy shadows started I also bought this...

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow
http://www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com/product/2330/8195/Makeup/Eyes/Eye-Shadows/Long-Wear-Cream-Shadow/index.tmpl

I went straight for the matte shades of which they have several.  However they are all pretty neutral colors.  I ended up buying slate.  It's a grayish color (not the one shown) that adds a light smokiness to your crease area.  I love how it goes on and will definitely buy more colors from the Bobbi Brown line!  The "colorful" shades...pinks, purples, blues...do not come in matte consistencies but are still worth your makeup budget!







And don't you just love the gorgeous little pots they come in!  Super luxurious!

Of course...I cant leave out the most important thing about applying cream shadows...THE BRUSH!!  You must have the right brush to get the product on they way it should go on.  Sorry...I know this is just more $$, but this is one brush I think really matters.  Oh heck...brushes matter for EVERYTHING!

I use....

Sephora Pro Cream Shadow Brush
http://www.sephora.com/pro-cream-shadow-brush-28-P313027?skuId=1419555

Precise application and distribution!












I would also suggest this one by Bobbi Brown which I tried in store but did not buy because I already had the Sephora one and it would have just been a waste of money.  However...loved the way it applied the creamy eyeshadow.

Bobbi Brown Cream Shadow Brush
http://www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com/product/2281/7574/Brushes-etc/Brushes-and-Tools/Eyes/Cream-Shadow-Brush/index.tmpl

A little tinier head than Sephora but both have soft bristles. 















You have to try cream shadows if you haven't already...they may not work for everyone, but please let me know if they worked for you!!

Bye Bye Black Eye!

I found it!  An eye makeup remover that ACTUALLY WORKS!  It's been around for quite some time and many a magazine and/or blogger have already raved about it.  I FINALLY gave it a try about 6 months ago...and can truly say it is better than any other I have tried.  (And I've tried many!)

Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover
http://www.sephora.com/bi-facil-double-action-eye-makeup-remover-P54477

It takes off every last little bit of your eyeliner and mascara. I promise!  It's gentle on the eye area and non-greasy.  Shake the bottle, apply onto your remover pad and then press and hold on the eye area, gently dabbing away every trace of makeup.  Remember to shake, because that's how you combine the bi-phase formula (lipid and water). 

Yes...gentle on the eyes and still works!!








In the past I've tried several drugstore brand removers, sephora brand, and origins brand.  The "better at removing" formulas are harsh to the eye (i.e Neutrogena which is powerful but makes my eye area red).  The gentle ones...like Origins...just don't do the job.  And while my main wish was to find a remover that could take off every last trace, it would be nice to find something non-irritating as well.  Everything you want in an eye-makeup remover is right here in Lancome.  Warning...it's pricey...which is why I avoided it for a while.  But the eye area is just too important!

Benefit POREfessional is Porefect!!

Pores!  Annoying "wholes" on your face that you really wish you didn't have!!  But what is a pore really?  Here's a good description from dailyglow.com:

"Typically, people with oily skin tend to have enlarged pores that secrete excess oil, or sebum. Larger pores are also more likely to get clogged with dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria. Dermatologists generally treat acne-related conditions with topical antimicrobials that help disinfect the skin, and topical retinoids to help unclog pores and prevent white- and blackheads from forming. The fact is you can’t get rid of your pores, or even shrink them, but you can cleanse and care for your skin in ways that make pores less visible. "

So basically, if you've got visible ones, you are stuck with them.  But that doesn't mean you cant try and hide them!  I recently came across this gem....and it's now gonna be a staple in my makeup bag...

Benefit The POREfessional
http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/the-porefessional

The description says lightweight and silky and that is EXACTLY how it feels.  Glides on so smooth an feels like you've got nothing on...all the while covering your pores!  I use the tiniest bit on areas where I see larger pores and just dab right on.  Its like a clear cover-up with no residue at all!  It also helps mattify and even out your skin tone.  It's so lightweight that it absorbs in seconds and you almost feel like you didn't put anything there...but behold!!! - your pores are gone!!  Well at least for the time being. :) :)
 

Sweet scents!

While I am VERY loyal to my makeup products, I change my perfumes frequently and always keep several in regular rotation.  I think I have fragrance commitment phobia.  I also have started buying in rollerball form when available because 1) its easy to use and carry around and 2) I don't have a lot left when something new peeks my interest.

Here are my current LOVES.  Some old, some new...but they may get a second buy...if something else doesn't catch my attention!  I used Sephora links so you can see reviews quickly.  Remember...everyone's own body chemistry determines how the scent smells.  So, you just gotta try it on YOU!  Here's my favs to try if you need a change!

Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire
http://www.sephora.com/la-petite-robe-noire-P375386

Light Fruity/floral.  Changes from a bold cherry licorice note to a subtle romantic and feminine scent.  And...I love that bottle!  If you just smell from the bottle, I think it's a little bit intense...but that intensity disappeared on my body turning into a very soft, sweet, lingering scent. 







Gucci Guilty
http://www.sephora.com/guilty-P273900

Okay, in all honesty...I literally bought this without even smelling it because of the name!  My career is based on guilty verdicts.  Every time the court clerk reads "Guilty" it' truly one of the best moments of my work life...again and again, every single time.  All the hard work paid off!  So I had to get Gucci Guilty and wear it everyday I'm in trial as my lucky charm!  This scenario of course doesn't apply to some of you reading...but it's powerful and its sexy...and every working woman needs a day like that!



Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb
http://www.sephora.com/flowerbomb-P255506

A not too overwhelming floral that I think leads the pack in seductive scents.  It's happy and inviting, and my husband's favorite on me!  It's for the girly girl in all of us and goes flawlessly from day to night!








Remember the best way to apply is right after a shower or bath and on your pulse points (warmest parts of body).  And no rubbing!

Pregnancy switch-outs

Having recently had a baby, means a full 9-10 months preggo plus another full year breast feeding, of having to change up my oh-so-loved beauty routine for products that are safe for your little bundle of joy.  Pregnant or not, you already know there are several products, foods, spaces...that you either cannot engage in or are cautioned about while expecting and also lactating.  One of those very important warnings comes with many of the products you might be using on your face, body, and hair.

The number one culprit (and my drug of choice) is Retinol.  (See earlier post where I rave about Murad Skin Perfecting Lotion).   Retinol is a no-no while pregnant, and its more harsh version Retin-A is completely off limits!!  Now that's my recommendation as well as that of most doctors, websites, magazines, etc.  However, for those with severe acne or other problems that require use of Retin-A you should consult your own doctor when a baby is on the way or even on the brain!  While lactating, I researched Retinol again and found that topical, over-the-counter creams are fine but you should absolutely stay away from any pills or prescription strength products.  Research also showed that topical retinol wasn't an issue during pregnancy...but I say, why take that risk?!

Another not so welcome guest at the baby table is salicylic acid.  So basically most all acne products (that actually work) are best to avoid!  Here's a good resource to show what's ok and what's not...

http://www.babycenter.com/0_safe-skin-care-during-pregnancy_1490031.bc?page=1

As far as makeup and hair products go...its the natural stuff that's best during this time. 
So that means, NO....
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan
So if you already use it...GREAT!  If not...I'd make a switch for those 1-2 years or so. 

YIKES...that was my first thought, and then I just went on and researched (like crazy) and tried different products that helped during this time.  Did they work as well...No, but they did enough to make me feel like I was caring for my skin and for my baby!  So here's a little list of products I used that were "switch-outs", meaning specifically and only for when I was pregnant.  Although some of the makeup and hair products I still use.  I linked the Sephora website on some of them so you can quickly read descriptions and reviews. 

For facial skin care...cleansers, moisturizers, etc...
BELLI
http://www.belliskincare.com/exfoliator-body-lotion-wash-benefits.html
They make products specifically for pregnant women and they are a great alternative!  Pricey...but worth it.

Fragrance...
LAVANILLA
http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=lavanilla&_requestid=195168
Several scents to choose from, a little fruity for my normal taste in perfumes, but good enough to add a scent to your body without adding harmful chemicals.  They also have a baby care line that I still use for my daughter (again...pricey, but worth it)

Lipstick...
KORRES Mango Butter Lipstick
http://www.sephora.com/mango-butter-lipstick-spf-10-P199108
Some of the best mostly neutral shades, with lots of moisturizing power and without parabens, phthalates and sulfates.

Haircare...
Basically I'd just stick with something sulfate and phthalate free.  Some good brands include
LIVING PROOF and ALTERNA
http://www.sephora.com/living-proof
http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=alterna&_requestid=197107
Check the product information section to make sure its free of the harmful stuff because not every single product in these lines is.

These are the main areas I felt required a "switch-out".  (Don't forget about ammonia-free hair dyes which many salons now carry).  I pretty much kept the rest of my makeup the same.  However...for those that really want to re-vamp it all to a more natural routine...I'd try products by TARTE, KORRES, or JOSIE MARAN.  Sorry...but I really DO NOT LIKE bareMinerals.

Hope this helps any mommys-to-be (or just put it away for the future :)!

Highlight of My Life (or Face :)

It's a tried and true old school product that has been around forever...but it never gets old and there is nothing quite like it out there.  Other brands have tried, but truly nothing comes close to it...

Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat

http://www.yslbeautyus.com/Touche-%C3%89clat/141YSL,default,pd.html

It's the highlighting pen everyone needs!  And when I say pen, it's really like a pen...there's a little clicker at the bottom that you push to dispense product onto the brush.  You can literally paint lines on your face with the brush and then blend them in with your finger.  Makeup artists have been using this for years and years...it's what brings that glow to your favorite stars!










Why do you NEED a highlighter in your makeup bag...

1. It helps hide dark circles by drawing attention to the light underneath
2. It adds radiance and brightness to your face
3. You can use the slightest bit under eyes, under brown bone, above and under lip, and wherever a little brightness would help.

Why you specifically NEED Touche Eclat...

1. There is NO OTHER highlighter that works this well
2. It will cover fine lines and any signs of fatigue
3. It's super easy to use
4. They just added more 5 shades
5. A variety of shades you never expected will work on you as long as you blend well and use it in the right places.

Some may confuse highlighter to concealer...which it kinda is.  But I think the main difference is that you usually go for a much lighter shade and its not really what I would use to cover circles, blemishes, or dark spots. Its about the brightening effect beyond your concealer. 

Read my prior post on contouring for more info on highlighters and go pick up Touche Eclat...your face will literally glow!

Life's Little Moments of Joy

When my little 19 month old daughter woke up this morning, and I went to get her, the first thing she said was "Mama...Mate-up!".  Her word for "makeup". 

Meaning she knows its what we do every morning, I put it on, and she pretends to with closed tubes and clean brushes.  

Like mommy, like daughter.........LOVE IT!

I cheated on my Mascara!

For those that know me...you know the one item I can never live without, and would force me to move out of the country if it were discontinued is....DIORSHOW!  It is the best best best mascara I have laid my lashes on!  (See earlier post). 

Well last week, after a recommendation from a friend some time ago, and because I got a sample of it...I tried another mascara and LOVED it!  I have tried many samples of mascara during my Dior love affair, but NONE ever compare.  Well...this one ladies is definitely a contender!  Note...I said contender and not a winner.  I still love Diorshow and will continue to use it forever and ever...and ever!  However my latest find (and it has been around for a year or so), while it does not deliver the drama of Diorshow that I want...does one thing everyone will love...SEPARATE, SEPARATE, SEPARATE!  That translates into defining each and every single tiny lash so that you look like you added a bunch of long feathery falsies!  And don't we all just want to walk around like we got out of bed with faux lashes (well I do!)  It lengthens literally one by one. 

Contrast Diorshow which is a more overall effect...lengthens, thickens, curls, adds major drama!  But if you are looking for something a little more subtle for daytime (and work) then I think Benefit's They're Real! Mascara is a must buy!

http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/theyre-real



Something about those little tiny bristles pulls up and coats each lash individually, creating the best wispy lash look you have ever seen!  I still love my faux lashes once in a while, but why not be able to save all that tweezer/glue/press/risk a lash on cheek FUN!, and just use They're Real, and mean it!

 

Love Laura!

On an endless search to find the perfect under eye, eyelid, and blemish concealer....I finally reached the conclusion of a beautiful face story with Laura Mercier.  All 3 areas require a different type of formula for an even toned, natural and clean look.

Under eye...has to conceal the dark circles with a shade lighter than your natural skin tone which you can blend down to match the face and cover and set with translucent powder.  Most important...it HAS to be a creamy consistency or it will 1)not blend well = raccoon eyes 2) look cakey or flaky and 3) get in between any lines (wrinkles...gasp!) you may have.

Blemish/Discolorations...drier consistency here works...because you do not want to highlight what you are trying to cover with even the slightest bit of shine

Eyelid (which means right under the brow bone, not the actual lid)...while the formula itself is up to you...this is where you go a lot lighter in shade than you think to really perk up and brighten your peepers. 

So here I am....NEVER have I ever wore foundation that just manages to even out the entire face in one, and now requiring 3 products to do the job!  After lots of trial and error with concealer I finally stopped looking when I found Laura Mercier.  I think they are absolute experts when it comes to foundations and concealers...they have figured out not only what formulas work best where but also exactly how your face will and should take to them regardless of you skin tone or problem areas.  If you are ever shopping for a new product that covers imperfections, I suggest a quick drop by at the Laura Mercier counter!  I promise you will not only find your perfectly matched shade but will also find a product that delivers what it says it will.  There is a reason they call their line "FLAWLESS FACE". 

For under eye I use...

Laura Mercier Secret Concealer
 http://www.lauramercier.com/store/shop/Concealers_Secret-Concealer_prod220006#ColorSampleLink_sku60007

Moisture rich and will not set into any lines and wrinkles.

For eyelid and discolorations I use...

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage

http://www.lauramercier.com/store/shop/Concealers_Secret-Camouflage_prod220004?currentSkuId=sku120002#ColorSampleLink_sku120004

I use the lighter shade on the lid and the darker on any discolorations.  Just got lucky on that 2-in-1!  Secret Camouflage is a best seller and top rated on most beauty sites/magazines.  It's a dry consistency so do not use under eye!  Otherwise...a flawless face awaits!

I also use Laura Mercier's Primer on my eyelids before applying shadows.  Primers are AMAZING and a must for shadow staying power and flawless (love that word!) application.  

http://www.lauramercier.com/store/shop/Primers_Foundation-Primer---Oil-Free_prod210042

Finally to set my under eye concealer I use...

Laura Mercier Pressed Setting Powder

http://www.lauramercier.com/store/shop/Powders_Pressed-Setting-Powder_prod220014

 Just the slightest, lightest touch!  It might last me forever.

I know everyone has their favorite face products...but if you are ever in the need for a new pick me up...I suggest giving Laura Mercier a visit!!  Warning...they are pricey.  But for me, this is basically how I clean up my face and try and look like I'm not wearing a thing (before I add more goodies on top:).  

And so, I gladly say....Flawless Awaits....

Neck Neglect

What's the most overlooked part of the body when it comes to slathering on all those creams and forking over major bucks for age-defying magic....THE NECK!  We continue to buy newer and better products for the face, and even for the body.  To tighten, lighten, brighten, tone, clear, etc.  But research shows that rarely, if ever, do most people do anything to protect their neck!

On a side note...I almost titled this post "Neckglected"...but the hubby said that was super lame :(

So why do we need to protect our necks...same reason as our faces and the rest of our body...EVERYTHING SAGS people!!!!  And the neck is quite prone to wrinkles and major sagging.  Most of us just don't pay enough attention to our necks because of the other parts we are usually worried about...eye wrinkles, forehead wrinkles, cellulite, under eye circles, acne, dark spots...And in our 30s...when skincare really becomes a HUGE concern, the neck is still fairly youthful looking.  When you don't really see the problem, you are less likely to try and prevent it from occurring.  I know we are all trying to prevent wrinkles we don't yet have...but do you really want to have gorgeous eyes and a dry, wrinkled neck?

Everyone reading this...if you follow through on even just this one tip...you will absolutely LOVE me at age 50.   USE your favorite face lotion, cream, moisturizer, whatever it is...on your neck too!  That's right, you do not need to buy a separate neck cream (this coming from the girl who would probably be the first to run out and buy many of the neck products available on the market??).  Yes...you can use any of the lotions you love for your face, on your neck too.  The same age-defying properties that are necessary for the face are just as good for your neck.  Actually the neck needs even more moisture, so the heavier the product the better.  For those that use a very light moisturizer because of oily skin or acne...you may actually want to invest in a separate neck cream.  

It's not even an extra step during your night routine, its just adding a little more product down to cover your neck (and why not your decolletage too...while you are there anyway).

If you read one of my earlier posts you know my magic potion is Murad Skin Perfecting Lotion...which I always use on my face and neck.

 








And for those of you who just cant help yourselves and want a separate neck cream...I would try Murad Rejuvenating Lift for Neck and Decollete, Clarins Advanced Neck Firming Cream, and/or Lancome Renergie Lift Volumetry Neck.  All 3 which I have tried in sample form...all 3 have instant moisturizing effects. 

Do you use a separate neck cream?  If so...which one?  And how do you like it?

Your lips will thank you!

I am cursed with super dry, chapped lips no matter what the climate or weather I'm in.  There are about a million lipsticks and glosses out there to choose from...and this is the one area of beauty where I must say I have no mainstays.  However there are several products I love and use every day (and when I say every day...I mean that...I use multiple products on my lips in one day, many times a day.)  There is no one product alone that quite does what I need...or I just haven't found it yet!  Which means....keep shopping :)

Here are some of my favorites (for now)...

Fresh Lip Sugar
http://www.fresh.com/skincare/agedelay/sugar-lip-treatment-SPF-15

This one is probably everyone's favorite!  Highly hydrating and no stickiness at all.  I was at lunch once with my co-workers and 4/5 girls at the table took there's out to touch up after our meals.  Fresh lip sugar also comes in several colors so that you can get that same moisturizing affect and add a little color all in one.  I like it in Honey and Sugar Plum.  And love love love the smell!!!

What I don't like...pricey, wears away fast on me, melts easily in my hot purse, and everytime I close it I think I'm smushing it. 




Nars Lip Gloss in Turkish Delight
http://www.sephora.com/lip-gloss-P2862

Some people have to have that little applicator stick...don't know why, they just do!  For that fix...I love Nars lip glosses.  I typically prefer a very natural lip color look and this shade is perfect for it.  Non-sticky and it actually stays on! These are also quite pigment rich so you get a good depth of color and yet can still have a very clean lip look.

What I don't like...I prefer a balm or SPF on my lips at all times so can't really wear it alone.




Lancome L'Absolu Rouge
http://www.lancome-usa.com/L-Absolu-Rouge/1000206,default,pd.html

For not so everyday occasions a lipstick is SO MUCH BETTER than a gloss.  They are way more rich in color and stay on much longer!  I actually prefer lipsticks to glosses any day!  This one by Lancome has a gorgeous variety of colors.  Best part...has SPF and moisturizing benefits that literally will protect your lips for hours while they look kissably soft!.  This one...I can wear alone.  But I'm lip product happy and will usually add a little balm under for extra protection and maybe even a teensy bit of nude gloss on top for a fuller lip look.  Although, another thing I love about Lancome L'Absolu Rouge is that it's an instant lip plumper without all those weird stingy chemicals.

    

What I don't like...Nothing!

And finally...when you just need a good balm for quick application, no mirror, no mess, all the benefits...

I love Burt's Bees! Use it every day...under, over, alone.

And the best trick to help lipstick stay on longer...lipliner!  No, not the dark liner look from your junior high days...a natural lip color complementing shade that acts as a barrier for your lipstick and also compliments the lipstick color itself.  This really works well for me when out at a place I cant frequently reapply.  And the old powder trick is also good for helping lipstick stay on and not feather out.  Just use the slightest bit and apply with a soft dusting brush...NOT the powder poof/sponge.  My favorite lip pencil brands...

24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil by Urban Decay

http://www.urbandecay.com/24-7-glide-on-lip-pencil/179,default,pd.html

and

Makeup Forever's Aqua Lip Pencil

http://www.makeupforever.com/products/lips/aqua-lip.html

White Eyeshadow...Don't be afraid to try it!

When you think of "white" or light pink eyeshadows you may think it's either 1) too Halloween costumey 2) too gothic looking when used against black eyeliner or 3) too lackluster in terms of adding depth to your eyes.  But I'm gonna challenge you to just try it once...and let me know what you think! 

White hue eyeshadows are actually used quite frequently on movie/TV sets because of the brightnesses they add to the eye area.  They also help to give your eyes a very clean look especially when balanced out with black liner.  The key is to use the right brush to apply it!  Never never use sponge tip brushes and I also would not use the "finger-dabbing" technique.  Any brush brand will do as long as it is very soft and specifically for "all over the eye". Notice...I did not say for the eyeLID, but for the all over eye.  The eyelid brushes pick up lots of color which is NOT what you want with white and pink shadows.  Or you can use your "crease" brush as they are always softer.  Here's my set by Smashbox...

For white shadows I use either the large one which gives a light base to eye which I can balance out with other shades in my crease and under brow bone (blend blend blend).  Or I use the second one from the left which is the crease brush as it is the softest of all of them. The third from the left is the actual lid brush which is too pigment catching.

http://www.smashbox.com/product/6012/23160/Brushes-Tools/Eyes/STUDIO-GROUPIE-BRUSH-SET/New-Limited-Edition/index.tmpl

My usual technique with a white shadow would be to lightly apply on the lid...then apply a darker shade (in the browns/purples family) on the crease and in the corners and maybe a beige shade under the brow bone. Then finish with your black eyeliner.  If you don't overdue the white/pink look it will appear like you have no eyeshadow at all but just wonderfully bright glossy eyes!

Here are my favorites...

                                                       Urban Decay in Zephyr

http://www.urbandecay.com/new-urban-decay-eyeshadows/328,default,pd.html?start=2&cgid=1_502

                                        Sephora Mono Eyeshadow in Pop the Question 64 - matte baby pink

http://www.sephora.com/colorful-mono-eyeshadow-P241801?skuId=1171974

Illamasqua in Sex - matte true white (warning: very rich pigment here)


http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1194786&productId=P241711&keyword=ILLAMASQUA%20Powder%20Eye%20Shadow%20-%20P241711&_requestid=85969




And if you prefer a creamy eyeshadow...try Nars cream eyeshadows in Pearl Beach

http://www.narscosmetics.com/color/eyes/eyeshadow/cream-eyeshadow/pearl-beach









I then use Urban Decay in Buck or Tease or Bust on the creases and corners.  I also apply a more beige shadow like MAC eye shadow in Brule under the brown bone. 

They look very different in the pictures above but all give pretty much the same effect. I would also suggest to use a pencil for eyeliner and not liquid as it will appear to harsh against the white. Finally...for a little glow lightly dab a little shimmer shadow or highlighter or cream blush. 

And remember, when I say "white" what I mean is any color in the lighter shadow family. Many pinks and purples fit in here. 

Here's a great picture for this look...

On the Wishlist!

Just got a Sephora VIB exclusive email (they should give me lifetime VIB status) on a new venture by fashion powerhouse Marchesa into the world of fragrance!  The AMAZING red carpet gowns that Marchesa consistently impresses us with is what attracted me to this new perfume!  It's gotta be a winner!  Until its in Sephora stores I cant test it, but I think the bottle alone makes me want it bad!

 http://www.sephora.com/marchesa-P375714

GORGEOUS!

However, my last few perfume purchases have all been in rollerball form.  LOVE rollerballs!  (or travel size pens).  So easy to use, take anywhere, keep it in your purse at all times.  And...the lower cost makes for the larger variety of scents I have!

Dear Marchesa...I have loved you since that Jennifer Lopez black masterpiece of a gown circa 2007 at the Golden Globes!  Please please make a rollerball version of your beautiful new fragrance!  That way...when you make more...I can buy them all!  But please include those amazing faux diamonds all over the little tube as well...thank you!

Quick-tip! Eyeliner

If you've ever flipped through the makeup tips in your favorite style magazines, you may have across the suggestion not to draw eyeliner on both your upper and lower lid. Why?  They will all tell you it ages the face.  For years I've read this tip and tried not to do it but I seem to outline my entire eye every time because I feel like I look naked without that bottom lining.  Do I look older because of it?...I hope not!  But, if literally every makeup pro says it, there must be some truth to it!

So what's my awesome tip for all you liner happy people...

You can still line both your upper and lower lid...just use a different/lighter color on the bottom!   So if you are using black on top, use a brown or subtle purple/blue on the bottom (subtle is key).  This will still give you the eye look you have always preferred but with less aging qualities and more definition contrast on top!  And...you get to go out and buy a new eyeliner...woohoo!!!

My favorite eyeliner is Makeup Forever's Aqua Eyes. It glides on easily, is smudgeable but also can give a clean line, doesn't fade away quickly, and comes in lots of high pigment colors!

http://www.makeupforever.com/products/eyes/eye-liner/aqua-eyes.html



DARK TAUPE



MAT BLACK



SOFT PLUM SHEEN

Say "Oui Oui" to Ouidad

What?!?...It's made in the USA?  Well, for a short while I thought I was using some fancy French product, but oh well...I love my country!  Ouidad touts themselves as the curl experts.  Products to tame those unruly curls and fight frizz!  I myself have wavy hair, no spiral curls, no tight ringlets, no frizzy fizzies! :)  Still...waves can appear messy and frizz can add to an unkempt look.  That's what I get if I don't blow dry and try to go with a wash-and-go style.  I was looking for a new mousse or gel which styled my waves into curls, controlled frizz, and felt like I had absolutely nothing in my hair.  I decided to try Ouidad after reading on their website that it would help create volume without weighing hair down.  Most gels/mousses/sprays I have tried in the past sell the same promise and still make for a sticky icky head of hair :(

Until I picked up this...

http://www.ouidad.com/TressFX-Curl-Styling-Gel

Ouidad Tress Effects Styling Gel.  Here's what the description says...

"Ouidad's Tress Effects Lightweight Styling Gel keeps curls soft, defined, frizz-free and super smooth without weighing them down. Its protein and vitamin B-5 packed formula leaves curls shiny, manageable, and prepared for even the most intricate special occasion style. Botanicals and collagen help smooth uplifted cuticles to prevent frizz and tame flyaways. With Tress Effects, you can achieve beautiful, salon-quality styling every time."

And that's exactly what I get every single time!!! 






There are suggested use instruction on the bottle, but here's how I use it...
- I wash my hair the night before
- I blow dry for only a few minutes the crown of my head and by flipping my hair over for the back
- While my hair is still wet/damp but not dripping...I flip all my hair into a bun at the top of my head.
(Note...I will one day post a picture of this because of the looks I get from my family, but they have all learned it's necessary for the awesomeness that befalls me the next day.  Its a bun at the highest part of your head you can put it and its done with a....SCRUNCHIE!.  Yes people, and indoor only scrunchie.  I own two for this use only.  You will never see me wear them out...Promise!  But they are much more effective on not pulling your hair and creating little kinks like regular hair ties will do.  You WILL get bouncy, natural, even curls from a scrunchie!!!)
- In the morning, I undo my bun and take a nickel size amount of Ouidad in my hands and then scrunch through my hair.  And it doesn't even feel like a scrunching but I use the word to give you the image!  It feels like no product at all!

Try Ouidad if you are in the market for a new hair tamer!  On some occasions however, you may want a stronger hold...for that I recommend a hairspray by Redken (post to come!) 

Contouring...Yes you can do it!

Sounds kinda like a painting you do on your face...and that's kinda exactly what it is!  Learning to contour is basically learning the proper brush strokes and where the color goes.  It's not an exact science but something you can work on and achieve over time based on the "palette" you have.  Contouring helps to amplify your cheek bones and give you that lean super-model like face. 

What you need to to start your own face painting project...
1. A good contouring brush
2. You favorite color blush that gives you a pinkish glow (Matte of course!)
3. A bronzer that is subtle enough to create a shadow on your face but not a sunburn!
4. A highlighter (some of these are marketed as concealer, but you wanna go much lighter than you would normally use under eyes)

What I use to contour...

1. Sephora Pro Contour Brush
http://www.sephora.com/pro-contour-brush-74-P313017

2. MAC Powder Blush in Mocha
http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/156/329/Powder-Blush/index.tmpl

3. Benefit Hoola Bronzing Powder
http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/hoola

4. YSL Touche Eclat
http://www.yslbeautyus.com/Touche-%C3%89clat/141YSL,default,pd.html

It's hard to explain how to contour without some sort of video tutorial so if you really want a visual...go to MAC's website and watch the contouring tutorial.  It's a great lesson but of course I have made my own adjustments based on day vs. night looks and what works best on me.

How I contour:

1. I highlight with touche eclat with small dabs (use ring finger to dot) just above my cheekbones or just under where I put my under-eye concealer. 
2. I then apply my bronzer with my special contour brush (don't use the benefit brush that comes with bronzer, too streaky)just under my cheek bones and up towards my temples.  I also sometimes put a little on my chin line
2. End with blush just on the apples of your cheeks...do not blend in or up with bronzer.

Basically the only visible color should be your flushed cheeks, amplified by the light on top and the shadow beneath.

Here's a great photo I found showing where exactly all these products should go...along with a little extra highlighting

I also dab my touche eclat where you see the ovals/circles, but I do not brush on my blush anywhere past the apples of my cheeks.
VERY IMPORTANT...make sure the bronzer is blended well so you do not look like you have streaky lines!  Use natural light at all times to do your makeup, especially contouring! Happy Painting!