All About The Pretty

Beauty Buzz: CHANEL Soho Limited Edition Collection

To celebrate the reopening of the CHANEL Boutique in SoHo, CHANEL Global Creative Director of Makeup Peter Philips has created a limited edition collection that echoes the spirit of SoHo. “For me, SoHo is a place where Bohemian ideals meet the toughness of the city… I love the tension and energy this creates.” says Peter Philips. 

The SOHO STORY Collection is a study in extreme contrasts, partnering feminine pinks and roses with strong, industrial metallics. From pretty cheekbones to anthracite nails, tender creams and flashes of metal simultaneously reflect and contradict each other. “I had a specific girl in mind who is both hard and soft. A girl who discovers a new city, a new life.” adds Peter Philips. “This is a very special kind of New York woman.  She is innocent, but she has a steely determination that fuels the city.” 

The collection’s SOHO DE CHANEL Exclusive Creation reflects a Pop Art influence.  Stamped with the four letters of SoHo, this silky powder comes in a delicate palette of shades and, when dusted across the face, creates a subtle, natural glow. 

• Soho de Chanel
• Quadra Eye Shadow in Stupendous
• Rouge Coco in Stunning
• Rouge Allure Laque in Stun
• Glossimer in Star
• Le Vernis in Steel
• Le Vernis in Strong    

Beauty Buzz: Lancôme's French Coquettes Fall 2010 Collection

Lancôme’s Fall 2010 color collection is bold and beautiful.  The collection, French Coquettes, captures the spirit of the modern woman at the start of the 20th century which was dreamed up by artistic director Aaron De Mey.  The collection harks to signature hallmarks of French glamour. From the opulence of the Belle Époque to the bohemian decadence of Montmartre, the collection’s palette of deep plums, shimmering charcoals and sophisticated nudes are sure to inspire.

The collection’s star products include La Rose Deco, a multi-color powder compact for subtle radiance, Ombre Magnétique, a gel-like shimmery eye shadow t and Le Vernis Nail Trio “Kissed By Paris,” a set of three mini polishes.

Beauty Buzz: Urban Decay's Tribute to NYC - One Day Only Preview Sale

This just in for my New York ladies. 

A one-day sneak-peek event offering 1,000 limited-edition Book of Shadows Volume III will be available for purchase exclusively at this store, on a first come first served basis.  Based on the demand for the last Book of Shadows (Alice in Wonderland), there is a limit of 3 per person. This coveted 16 shade palette doesn’t even launch on Urbandecay.com until after Labor Day, and will not be available in-store at Macy’s, Sephora, and Ulta, until October 1st! The palette is adorned with pop-ups of iconic NYC imagery including a taxi and the Empire state Building – and it even lights up to show the city skyline!

WHEN: Saturday, August 28th, from 1-9pm

WHERE: Sephora’s Times Square (1500 Broadway, #304, New York, NY 10036)

FREE:

The first 200 die-hard Urban Decay fans in line will receive a limited-edition Urban Decay t-shirt with their consultation.

Urban Decay’s International Make-Up Artist, Eric Jimenez, and his team of ‘A-List’ artists are offering makeovers as well as sharing tips and tricks created specifically for the NYC non-stop, glam-and-go lifestyle.

CHANEL Fall 2010 Beauty Collection

CHANEL you always do me proud with your beauty collections.

Paying tribute to her unique vision, Peter Philips, Global Creative Director of CHANEL Makeup, has created a makeup collection for Fall 2010 that brings bold emphasis to the eyes, and keeps lips soft and delicate.

Joues Contraste Powder Blush

• Pink Explosion, a luminous pink;
• Rose Temptation, a shimmering rosewood; and
• Plum Attraction, a bold glistening plum.

Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Colour

• Chalys, a delicate coral;
• Rose Dentelle, a tender pink; and
• Chintz, a soft peach

Levres Scintillantes Glossimer

• Petite Pêche, a pale peach;
• Coral Love, a bright coral shimmer;
• Rose Dilemma, a soft pink; and
• Teaser, a vivid pink.

Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eye Shadow

• Enigma, the bold new colour harmony, features a shimmering peach, deep plum and two iterations of deep smoky grey

Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch Eye Shadow

• Taupe Grisé, a chocolate grey, and
• Vert Khaki, a cool khaki green

Stylo Yeux Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner

• Cassis, a pitch-dark plum

Le Vernis Nail Colour

• Paradoxal, a dark grey-violet

DiorShow Extase Mascara

Shut the front door and adjust your screen when you read this. I was not a fan of the original DiorShow.  I repeat - I was not a fan of DiorShow.  It was something with the brush that just didn't connect with my lashes.  But, Monsieur Dior - you've done me proud mister.  The DiorShow Extase Mascara is now one of my all time favorite mascaras.  I think it's the curvy brush that coats my lashes and gives me the va-vavoom look or maybe it's the fact that I'm finally getting the 7-8 hours of sleep that I personally need for my body and overall health  Whatever it may be this mascara is giving me that loving feeling and that's a good thing.

Lanolips Lip Ointment With Colour in Apples

This summer I'm giving my nude lip a rest.  I always tend to go for the bronzy lip colors, but I have vowed to add a little more color to my lips.  Lanolips Lip Ointment in Apples is the perfect subtle red lip.  Seriously, the color reminds me of how my lips look after a Cherry Icee.  Does anyone still make the old school Icee's?  I was a pure traditionalist.  I never mixed the Coca Cola flavor with mine.  I like the straight cherry flavor. 

I have been digging into my pocketbook a little more frequently to keep applying this product.  Not because I have to.  It's because I like it so much that I want to make sure my lips aren't missing it.  Also, don't think you can't buy this product because it's from Australia.  They ship to the U.S. for a very low price from Adore Beauty.  I suggest getting two tubes.  You don't want to run out.

Smashbox Cosmetics Brow Tech to Go

I normally do nothing to my brows but brush them.  I know there are tons of brow products, but I just felt that it was another to-do in my daily beauty routine.  Then, I met Smashbox's Brow Tech to Go and now doing my brows is not such a bothersome task.  I have dark brows, but I do like them to be a tad bit lighter because I don't want to look like Morticia Adams when my makeup is done. I hope that they come out with a dark brown version so I can test that one as well. This brow product is the perfect accoutrement to my brows.  It's just enough product and the right amount of setting gel.  I will say this - go easy on the gel.  I'm the queen of too much product, but a little goes a long way.  Trust me on this.  You don't want the back story - just TRUST me.

Eve Lom TLC Cream

It's warm outside and it seems that I should not want to put a heavy cream on my face, but I'm so in love with the Eve Lom TLC Cream that I'm ignoring the heat.  This cream is saving my face because  I am lacking in my much loved 8 hours of sleep a night. It came in the Eve Lom Travel Kit and I have gone through the tube so fast that I must buy the travel kit again just to get this cream.  I don't want to travel with the jar in comes in, but if I have to I will.

I know I will be staying up late headed to The World Cup and the beauty routine must be maintained internationally. 

Have a pretty day!

12 Days of a Pretty Christmas: Stila - Day 7

By AATP Intern:

Have you tried the cult classic Stila Lip Glazes yet? No? The holidays are the perfect time to stock up on these and with the limited edition eight piece lip glaze set. This set includes four best sellers and four new shades sure to delight anyone on your shopping list.  

Equally loved by the beauty addicts everywhere are the Stila smudge pots, available in a four piece set this holiday season. The Smudge Pot Collection is a $95 value for just $32. The gorgeous purple and blue shades look out of this world and you can’t go wrong with shimmering neutrals like Kitten or basic black.  

To complete an entire Stila face pick up the Made in Your Shade Foundation wardrobe. With minis of four different foundations, a mini primer and a mini convertible color for cheeks you’re sure to find at least one product you didn’t know you couldn’t live without. I picked one of these up earlier this year and the convertible colors are just about the best thing I’ve ever seen. How did I live without them? 

In case you couldn’t decide which feature deserves a little Stila love more, they have released the Holiday Color Collection, a lip glaze, convertible color, eyeshadow and smudge pot for the low, low price of $38.  This product is in my Sephora.com shopping basket as we speak, Merry Christmas to me!

Smashbox Eyelights in Smoke Box

I apologize for not posting as frequently, but the job that pays the "beauty bills" has kept me so busy that when I get home the only thing I can do is take a bath and head to bed.  I'm looking forward to the new year when BIG changes will be happening in my life, but right now I have to keep it on the "pretty hush-hush."  One saving grace is trolling the web for products that make my life a little bit more beautiful. 

Bring in Smashbox Cosmetics.  I am diving face first into this brand and giving it a little more of my pretty attention.  I was looking for a quick smokey eye palette to carry in my purse to update my look from day-to-night.  At the rate I have been looking, my eyes need all the help they can get. I hope you are having a great start to the holiday season.

Estee Lauder Signature 5-Tone Shimmer Powder for Eyes, Cheeks, Face

Review by AATP Intern:

I, like a lot of you I'm sure, have been on a quest for the perfect shimmery pink blush for as long as I can remember. Finally that quest is over because I have found it in Estee Lauder Signature 5 Tone Shimmer Powder in Pink Shimmer for Eyes, Cheek, Face  (long name, great blush). Not only are there five individual shades that can be worn individually, but they can all be worn together for the most gorgeous pink flush. This blush is shimmery but not too glittery and could even be work appropriate no matter what your field.

You can use the individual colors on your eyes or apply them over your face lightly as a shimmery finishing powder. This powder is also available in bronze shimmer and I'm dying to try that one as well. With a product so versatile I have to wonder, how long until I need to pick up another? The best part about this product is that it isn't limited edition, but you might want to pick up a couple back ups anyway!

Sponsored Post: CoverGirl's LashBlast Length Mascara

Get Extra Long Lashes!  

COVERGIRL’s new LashBlast Length Mascara creates expertly defined, beautifully separated lashes. The long brush provides more control, plus special product reservoirs at the top of each bristle grasp even the tiniest lashes to lengthen them by up to 80%. The clump-free formula contains nylon fibers, the same material used in expensive lash extensions, to extend your lashes without flaking, smudging or smearing.  

You have to see it to believe it! Try on COVERGIRL’s new LashBlast Length Mascara in Daily Makeover’s virtual Makeover Studio now.

Estee Lauder Rose Gold Lip Gloss and Lipstick

Review by AATP Intern:

It's not everyday that you meet a lip gloss that looks just as good in the tube as it does on your lips, but I have found that with the new Estee Lauder Rose Gold Lip Gloss from the Sensuous Gold Collection. This gloss is a trio of three colors all in one tube that mix when you pull out the wand creating one fabulous shade fairly close to the color in the middle of the three. The cap to this lip gloss is rose gold and it looks elegant enough for public touch ups.

It's even more rare that a gloss in a tube so pretty could look so great on the lips. I'm a huge fan of shimmery lips and this gloss has tiny sparkles that show up on the lips making them look like a prism. The three colors swirl together to create the perfect light pink for my complexion with the sparkly look I love. This gloss feels great on the lips, is never sticky and has that terrific vanilla cupcake smell that all Estee Lauder glosses have. This lip gloss is sold out on-line but if you hurry you may still be able to get your hands on it in store.

Are you a lipstick lover? If you are then you most certainly have tried an Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick and if you haven't then what are you waiting for? I'm a girl who much prefers glosses but even I found myself looking for an excuse to don these lipsticks from the Sensuous Rose Collection. Each of the lipsticks in this collection have a hint of gold glitter on the sides but honestly I found that when you applied straight from the tube you didn't end up with many of these sparkles on your lips. That means you have the versatility of wearing this as a satin finish or applying some of the sparkles from the side of the lipstick and getting a more metallic finish, perfect for a night out. These can also be applied sheer or layered for a more saturated look.

If I had to pick my favorite lipstick from this collection it would be Pink Amethyst, a very wearable mauve pink. This color is only slightly darker than my lips and when worn sheer adds just a touch of color and sheen to my lips. Plum Amethyst comes in a close second and is a dark plummy red that would look equally great on my pale skin or someone with very deep skin.

JK Jemma Kidd Pro Finish Moisture Tint

Review by AATP Intern:

We may be going into fall, but it's still no time to be wearing foundation! Even those of us that are not blessed with flawless skin still must take a break from foundation at one time or another and that's where tinted moisturizer comes in. Different tinted moisturizers are marketed different ways, some are sold simply as having less coverage than foundation while others actually moisturize as well as providing coverage. I found JK Jemma Kid Pro Finish Moisture Tint very hydrating and it glides onto the skin so effortlessly you'd swear you were putting on your regular moisturizer.

My skin is usually pretty dry, even through the warmer months, so I'm always looking for products that are hydrating as well as serving another purpose. This tinted moisturizer not only hydrates but it contains SPF 20 for a little extra sun protection. Even though the color I tried was at least three shades too dark for my extremely fair complexion it was sheer enough that I could apply it to my cheeks for a very natural bronzer. I have tried many tinted moisturizers from Sephora and haven't found one that is as hydrating as JK Jemma Kidd Pro Finish Moisture Tint, this was far superior to anything I've tried before, for about half the price and available at your local Target.

Lumene Excellent Future Skincare Reader Reviews

Here are the reviews with no edits on the Lumene Excellent Future products.

Lynecia writes:  I just got back from a trip to Northern California and the 100 degree plus heat left my skin feeling dry and dehydrated. On the first night I washed my face and applied the serum and Deep Repairing Cream and I woke up the next morning with hydrated plump skin. When I woke up, I cleansed my face again and applied the serum under my usual day cream. For the first few days, the serum-moisturizer combo was fine; it felt as if it restored my usually dry skin to balance. But after a while, it was no match for the New York humidity, combined with the ever changing temperatures of me going in and out of air conditioned subway cars and my job. By the end of the week, it just felt heavy, and I even had a dry patch (skin stopped producing as much oil under the cream I'm guessing, if that makes sense). Currently, I feel like the serum is better for my skin and hope to go back to using the cream when the weather cools down. I'm in my 20s, and the combination may be a little advanced for my skin.

Christina writes: After using the Lumene products for the past 2 weeks I have definitely noticed an improvement in my skin.  I'm generally a combination skin with oily t-zone.  I used the skin serum morning and night after washing my face, and the cream only at night.  When I used the cream in the morning my skin was pretty oily/shiny during the day so I cut back.  Having used the products consistently for the past 2 weeks my skin has evened out and I only have to use my blotting paper once in the afternoon!  My skin is softer, more firm and I haven't had the need to use concealer for under my eyes.  Overall, I really like the Lumene line and am eager to try some of their other products.  Thanks for the chance to pamper my skin!

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Color Brushes

The mere thought of these Sephora Color-Dipped Brushes put a smile on my face. 

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Smoky Eye Brush ($18) – Equipped with a slanted eyeliner brush and a smudge dome in purple.

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Perfect Complexion Brush ($35) – With its pretty-in-pink brush fibers, this multitasking must-have features a two-in-one foundation and powder brush for a flawless finish.

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Every Day Eye Brush ($18) – Successful shading is what this brush is all about with this orange brush.

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Grab’n Go Brush ($32) – Perfect for applying all-over shadow, loose powder, and compact foundation. One brush, two sides, three effects

Sephora Collection Double-Ended Winged Brush ($18) – Use this yellow brush to draw a fine line, then apply cream or powder to your eyes.

I think it's time for a Sephora purchase.

Everyday Minerals Makeup

AATP Intern Review:

 

I have to admit that I never really got into the mineral makeup craze, but there is a first time for everything and I was completely willing to give Everyday Minerals a go and I'm glad I did.

 

The Everyday Minerals packaging leaves a little to be desired visually, but inside some clever packaging techniques more than make up for it. These shadows and blushes were still in the traditional loose powder form but the packaging was designed to better contain the products when they were not in use and therefore, save you from wasting product and making a mess.

 

The blush itself in Time Share is highly pigmented, matte and completely gorgeous on the skin.  The shadows in the Everyday Resort Palette are all very natural in color and come out matte on the lid with just a few small sparkles popping up here and there, only noticeable in the right lighting. I did find that these shadows made my sensitive eyes itch slightly when they were on for an extended period of time.

 

Overall these are great products if you're going for a more matte, natural look and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for mineral makeup that doesn't make a mess all over your makeup bag.

CoverFX: The Big Cover Up & Beauty’s Best-Kept Secret

By: Felicia C. Sullivan

On the eve of my thirty-second birthday, as I tossed back pomegranate lime seltzers and splurged on a plate of butternut squash ravioli, a violent eruption on the level of Vesuvius was taking place…on my forehead. After nearly wailing when a quick compact inspection revealed wretched little volcanoes, I grabbed a napkin, shut the compact, and resolved to take action. Determined to fix this abominable situation, I hit my local drugstore with vigor. Roving drugstore shelves, I stocked up on a litany of foundations and any product that promised, with bold language and multi-syllabic chemicals, a return to my clear complexion.

 

Suffice to say it took a year and many, many failed products, facials, and ill-advised foundations to find peace with my now clear skin, which suffers from the occasional breakout. A healthful diet, regular exercise, an efficacious skin care regimen, and the right foundation are my tools to looking fabulous, even when the summer is determined to melt the make-up right off my face. And after sampling CoverFX’s line of foundations and primers, I was convinced that their products would not only conceal my breakouts, but they’d also tame those cruel spots underneath my skin, begging for airtime. Nix your concealers, because you need to include these products in your lifestyle*:

 

• Clear Prep FX Matte Foundation Primer & Anti-Acne Treatment.  I never believed in the nonsense that was primer, but I have seen the light and reformed my wayward, smack-talking ways. Perfect for all skin types, notably my combination skin cum forehead oil manufacturing plant, this matte foundation primer not only reduce the appearance of shine and pores, it also contains acne-battling Salicylic Acid. Its gel-like consistency ensures epic glide and it immediately sets to your skin, making your foundation go on like butter to a blueberry pancake.
• CoverFX Total Coverage Cream Foundation SPF 30: Where have you been all of my LIFE? It’s rare that I encounter a foundation that sweeps across my skin rendering an airbrushed-but-you-really-don’t-have-makeup-on-really look. Revered by dermatologists and make-up artists alike, the cream foundation delivers excellent, long-lasting weightless coverage. Most importantly, this is a foundation with mileage – a little goes a long way. But if you’re not mad for cream, check out the Powder FX Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 10: which yields equally impressive results (although I prefer the dewy natural feel of the cream foundation).

*Courtesy of Amber Katz, artisan of English language reinvention.  

Tarte Cosmetics hEYE Impact Waterproof Creaseless Shadow/Liner Duo

Review by AATP Intern:

Immediately when I saw the Tarte Cosmetics hEYE Impact Waterproof Creaseless Shadow/Liner Duo I knew it was loave at first sight.  I’ve always been a fan of eye crayons because of how easy they are to apply and their portability factor. Most crème shadows slide all over the eye area and migrate to the crease, but I didn’t have that problem with this one. The color was fabulous and had great pigmentation and I was actually able to apply the liner to my inner eye, which is almost impossible with other liner pens. I know this product will be heading on vacation with me for years to come.

Koh Gen Do Foundation

Review by AATP Intern:

I recently tried Koh Gen Do's foundation and powder.  Koh Gen is a Japanese skin care company established in 1986 for an actress with sensitive skin who was on a quest to protect her skin from the conditions on the set of TV shows and movies. Koh Gen Do’s philosophy is creating skin care that’s gentle to the skin and they didn't disappoint. Their Moisture foundation feels like a luxurious cream when applied to bare skin or over makeup primer. The foundation is sweat proof in the summer and locks in moisture, excellent to wear when you’re surviving the long East Coast Winter (thankfully a long way off).

The powder was very matte mattified my skin and the soft puff made it extra wonderful to apply. These products contain no synthetic fragrance, pigment or petroleum-based mineral oil. My favorite part of this makeup is the soft skin I am left with not only while wearing it but also after removing it at night. The powder comes in a translucent shade that appears white in the container but works perfectly on my skin. The foundation is only available in three colors, all of which are fairly light, but if you happen to fit into that category you should really check it out. 

Avon SpectaColor Lipstick

What beach day would be complete without a fun toy for playtime? For a beauty addict like me that plaything is the new Avon SpectaColor Lipstick that landed in my beauty stash. This lipstick comes in a liquid form with two colors that you can customize to make the perfect shade for you and your situation, all enclosed in one chubby tube. Each SpectraColor lipstick has seven custom shades to choose from so you’ll have the perfect color for every occasion, day or night.

 

Once you’ve chosen your desired intensity press the button on the bottom and viola! a perfect portion of glossy lipstick is dispensed. The best part about this lipgloss/lipstick hybrid is the hydrating, non-sticky and long lasting formula. Enjoy your fun in the sun (or at least sneak to the window near your cubicle) and worry not about your lipstick, Avon has you covered. To locate an e-Representative, visit www.avon.com.

François Nars Personal Appearance in San Francisco

François Nars, the makeup genius himself is making a special appearance at Nordstrom San Francisco Centre signing copies of his books X-Ray and Makeup Your Mind as well as the limited-edition NARS Loves San Francisco Set. 

 

You lucky SF girls!

Here are the details:

Nordstrom San Francisco Centre

865 Market Street

San Francisco, CA

NARS Counter (415) 243-8500 ext 1098

Saturday, June 6th, 2:00-3:30pm

Bobbi Brown's Illuminating Bronze Collection

I had to check my computer screen numerous times when I saw Bobbi's Illuminating Bronze Collection.  Then I saw the collection in person.  I was hooked.  I mean the type of hooked that started planning trips to the beach, pool, and the lake just so I can use the Shimmer Brick for Body. 

It's no secret that I love Bobbi's Shimmer Brick (please bring back Brownie - please, please, please).  But when I took the brush and applied it on my arm it was as if heaven sent this shimmer love down for me. 

• Limited-edition Shimmer Brick for Body
• Limited-edition All Over Body Brush
• Illuminating Bronzing Powder
• All Over Bronzing Gel SPF 15 in Golden Sun – a gel-based bronzer

Get the Natural Glow with Josie Maran Cosmetics

By Felicia Sullivan

 

Raised in a bohemian household in Northern California, Josie Maran grew up appreciating natural, effortless beauty. At the time, makeup – heavy and mask-like – seemed anything but natural. After a decade of modeling and a multi-year Maybelline contract, in 2007 Maran sought to create a line of unfussy, wearable cosmetics with a touch of whimsy. Her line would not only be earth-friendly, but also universally flattering.  This is makeup you apply with your fingers; this is the no-makeup, makeup look. And it’s downright delicious.

Now you’ve heard Julia sing the praises of the luscious Argan Oil, termed “liquid gold” by the NYT, and highly revered by Europeans for its healing and moisturizing properties, but believe me when I say Josie Maran’s earthy line is equally fabulous. Never have I loved a whole line at first application. From the biodegradable (compacts only), recyclable, and sleek pink packaging, to the luscious palette colors, to the unbelievable glide of the lipsticks that makes you feel as if your pout is draped in silk and velvet, you will want to wear her long-wearing, lightweight, clump-free cosmetics. Below are my line covets:

Lipstick (Mysterious), $20: Although I’m having a major plum moment, it’s chic to play it down for day, especially as we embark on the warmer months when less is key, and this remarkable deep mauve/sheer wine color is simply magic. The lipstick is formulated with rich conditioners like Jojobba Seed Oil and Coconut Cream, ensuring that your lips are enveloped in comfort all day long.

Eyeshadow (Chianti), $20: To be honest, I have problems with most shadows simply for the fact that I rely on primer for effortless glide. Not with Maran’s shadows. The shades are vibrant and the glide, incredible! The reddish plum of the Chianti is so transitional, that I play it down for day with a soft lavender and rock it out full-force for evening with a hit of charcoal for major eye drama.

Crème Blush (Sunrise), $22: I have seen the glory that is crème makeup and I’m never going back to powder (save a few compacts with which I can’t seem to shake). I love how this blush gives your cheeks a wash of color that mimics your natural flush. A little dab of this flattering pink hue and I look airbrushed and glowing. Divine!

Maybelline’s Pulse Perfection Mascara: Cue the Eye Drama

By: Felicia C. Sullivan

 

For as long as I can remember Maybelline Great Lash mascara has been a cosmetic bag mainstay, simply for the fact that it consistently delivers voluminous, rock star lashes on a drugstore budget. Why do I love it? It conditions as it lengthens, it leaves my puny lashes clump-free, and since it’s paramount that I toss my mascara every three months (don’t be a glutton for pink-eye punishment), I don’t experience heart palpitations over parting with this cheap-chic cosmetic.

 

But then I discovered the miracle that is the vibrating mascara. I know what you’re thinking: have we really become this lazy? At first I was skeptical about vibrating makeup, but that was before. Before the volume. Before the long-lasting wear. Before the instant glamour. However, when the vibrating powermascara delirium faded and the sticker shock settled in, I crawled back to my ubiquitous pink and green tube.

 

And suddenly it was as of someone was blasting Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” from neighboring rooftops when I learned that come July, my beloved Maybelline will debut Pulse Perfection Mascara – the most technologically advanced mascara yet – for a budget-friendly $14.95! Pulse Perfection is the first-to-mass vibrating mascara delivers 7,000 micro-oscillations per minute. The battery-powered mascara offers a patent pending vibrating elastomer brush, which gently pulsates against lashes.  The horizontal micro-motion is designed to mimic pro makeup artist application technique (zig zag), and extend it to its maximum potential, mistake-free and effortlessly. 

 

But does it deliver? Oh, it must certainly does. With just the push of a button, my lashes went from zero to sixty in terms of volume, length, and color intensity. And unlike some of the vibrating mascaras currently on the market, which practically vibrates your hand off, with Pulse Perfection you’re in the driver’s seat, giving you coat-building control. Consider me impressed by the mascara’s smooth, luxe separation, which, pardon the pun, was pure perfection. This is bat-your-lashes delicious.

 

Now you can get captivating lashes with Maybelline’s exclusive online preview sale. For one day only on May 18^, 2009, consumers can visit Maybelline.com/pulse or a participating retailer to snag Pulse Perfection: Target.com, Walmart.com, CVS.com or Walgreens.com.

Flirt! Lash-a-delic Fast Defining Mascara

My coworker Joyce and I have talked products for the past 2 years. She's like my beauty big sister who not only informs me of what she's been buying, but she also tells me what I should be buying.  This was the case with the Flirt! Lash-a-delic Mascara.  Joyce comes to my office and tells me "have you heard about the new Flirt mascara?"  I replied, "no."  She said "look.at.my.lashes.they.are.perfection." 

So, I stood up and looked.  Her lashes had that spidery-tingly-lengthy-as well as-voluminous look.  Lash perfection was staring back at me.  I was just in Kohl's, but I was there buying Food Network serving dishes and a punch bowl for a party and didn't have time to look at the beauty products.  Last weekend I was finally able to get my hands on the mascara.  It's good. It's mighty mighty good.  Joyce was right. It pays to listen to my big beauty sister.

Sheerin O'kho First Class Flight Mask

Sheerin O'kho's First Class Flight Mask changed my life on the way to Playa.  My allergies had been acting up and I started getting small bumps on my forehead. Sheerin's products are made with natural ingredients that work with the skin. I knew I needed to get this situation in order well before I hit any beach.  I applied the mask just like the directions - a thin layer on the face for the duration of the flight. 

Right before landing I wiped it off and before I could moisturize my face it hit me: this mask was made for my face.  It provided the healing my skin needed.  I did the same thing on the return home and despite the sun, beach, and sunscreen - my skin and I arrived home fabulous.  

CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe Mascara

I always have a weekly dialog with Erika about beauty products.  Ever since we have met it's been a constant conversation of what we love.  I read her beauty site, just like so many of my beauty friends, and then I make purchases.  Erika really likes the CoverGirl LashBlast mascaras, but I always hated the wands and the excess packaging.  Erika's comments are always "get over it." 

On my weekend run to CVS, I decided to get the CoverGirl LashBlast in Black and the LashBlast Luxe in Black Cabernet.  What in the world have I been waiting on.  I wanted to slap myself when I looked in the mirror.  My lashes were so amazing. As always I want to thank my BBBFF (Beauty Blogging Best Friend Forever) for making sure that after all these months I have finally joined the masses of women who love this mascara.  I have to pick up the waterproof version for Playa del Carmen next week.  I still don't care for the packaging, but at least the LashLuxe is pink and my lashes are happy!

B. Kamins Diamond Radiance Facial at the Ritz Carlton Georgetown

It's finally spring in DC.  The cherry blossoms have peaked and we've had a weekend of pure and delicious sun and it's not in the 20s.  For me it's a time for spring detox. Some people like to do the master cleanse, juicing, or fasting.  I prefer the cleansing of a different kind.  It means time at the spa and having my skin cleaned and prepped.  This is what the B. Kamins Diamond Radiance Facial at The Ritz Carlton in Georgetown did for me. 

The facial consists of a vegetable cleanser, deep-detox micro-stimulator and other fab products, but the top products of the facial are the Diamond Radiance Cellular Matrix Fortifier SPF 15 and the Diamond Radiance Therapeutic Deep Wrinkle Concentrate. 

What does all that mean? It means this is an anti-aging facial to give off a glow just like you had around 6 months.  Literally.  I walked out the facial and did not put a stitch of makeup on. Not even when my honey decided to take me to dinner.  My skin felt like butter and my face was sparkling like a diamond.  You get the picture.  This is the perfect facial for a Mother's Day treat. 

Giorgio Armani Beauty Crema Nera Eye Compact

In 2008 Giorgio Armani Beauty introduced Crema Nera.  The revolutionary skin care cream based on the minerals found near the volcanic island of Pantelleria.  I have been waiting for an addition to this line and here it is.  When I found out that G.A. Beauty would introduce an eye cream I became like one of Pavlov's dog.  I actually hyperventilated with joy. 

The idea of eye creams are lost to some and they don't believe they work, but being on the side closer to 40, I believe they do.  Are the wrinkles coming, of course, but I know this Crema Nera Eye Cream is going to keep them at bay.  Along with a few tips from Tim Quinn -Giorgio Armani Beauty's Celebrity Makeup Artist and National Artistic Director.