Beauty Buffet, a beauty blog serving up delicious beauty treats daily

Legs Luxuriate

2008-02-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

Everyday is spa-delicious. Our legs bask in a luxurious culmination of blueberries and mint. The unusual concoction smells of a sweet but minty cool sensation. Between the organic antioxidant, anthocyanidins, found in blueberries, and refreshingly invigorating mint oil, our legs have never looked more vibrant and baby smooth.

But, we love Blueberry Mint for the velvety silky way it leaves our legs feeling. Quite frankly, our legs look 10 years younger and we attribute this to any unbelievable shave cream turned soothing spa in a bottle.

For $32, it’s the perfect treat for anyone obsessed with the appearance and feel of their legs. This is our latest beauty secret. For anyone looking to retain invigorate the legs into a healthy, flawless and ageless look, Whish even soothes sore achy leg muscles.

100% Natural

2008-02-04T17:45:00.000-08:00

A moment on the lips doesn’t have to mean a lifetime on the hips with healthy balanced nutrition for your sexiest feature. A gentle infusion of the freshest, purest minerals on the earth, this nourishing blend of exotic oils, natural waxes, and plant extracts create the long wearing and long lasting formula. Each Bare Escentuals 100% Natural Lipcolor, $15 contains no artificial dyes and uses only natural minerals as colorants with no chemical preservatives, artificial ingredients or irritants. The oh so smooth moisturizing formula has superior color payoff, glides easily onto lips, and is long wearing with a light scent of natural, calming lavender oil. Jojoba, Macadamia and Coconut Oil treat and heal dry lips as you wear, with vitamin E and Barley Lipids protecting and improving the overall condition of the lips. We love: Parfait, a rosy neutral brown that looks great on all skin tones.

Rock On

2008-02-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

Make like a Rock Star with pure powder metallic eyeshadow in eye capturing hues of copper, gold and pearl guaranteed to add spot stealing color to any party make up. Ultra pigmented for a long lasting color play, the cutesy little packaging adds another aspect of unique to the lush Lorac Cosmetics latest and is fast becoming a cult cosmetic product that really does rock. Watch out for this exclusive line as it’s hitting Hollywood hard and attracting a bevy of beautiful, A list celebrity wearers clamoring for the Glam Rocks, $16 precious metals.

Bye-Bye Blackhead, Hello Taut Skin

2008-01-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

It’s the type of skin artillery that make-up artists deploy on the celebrity face palette. Joey New York Instant Chemistry Quick Blackhead Dissolver Gel, $25 refines an age defying and healing therapy. For the face with enlarged pores and blackheads, this face treat contains Marine Collagen that helps the skin drink a Prozymex HBT enzyme exposing youthful skin.

This fast acting gel treatment works miraculously. With its multi-functional purposes, Joey New York Instant Chemistry Quick Blackhead Dissolver Gel goes well beyond alleviating blackheads and tightening up oversized pores. As it heals and minimizes acne breakouts, it even manages to ease the appearances of wrinkles. This skin enhancement completes the daily beauty regimen.

A Fresh Breeze

2008-01-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

A simply must have product for every girly girl who wants to keep that morning showered scent all day no matter how hot things get. Principessa Bianco Breeze Hair and Body Powder, $22 can be sprinkled from tresses to tootsies, absorbing excess oil whilst leaving the soft scent of violet leaves, rose petal and neroli on the skin as it soothes and freshens. The talc free powder means you really will be able to get away with not washing your hair every day with scalp soaking powers and extracts of chamomile, calendula and Aloe that will leave your hair and body clean, calm and soft on the outside no matter how you’re feeling on the inside!

Big Bold Hair in 5

2008-01-29T19:30:00.000-08:00

Glamorous hair goes bold and vivacious. How do celebrities like Jessica Simpson achieve the big and beautiful locks? B More, $15 building spray by Benniefactor takes tresses to new volumizing heights:

Use a dryer that has a diffuser attachment
When hair is almost dry, apply gel or other styling product from the roots to the ends of the hair.
Using a round brush, lift hair from the roots as close as possible while pulling hair in a vertical styling motion. Continue drying hair.
Next, take the brush dry, and spritz until b more until its worked through each layer of hair.
For a final firming hold, spray another round of be more and be more daring.

Something Fishy

2008-01-28T18:31:00.000-08:00

Hot on the heels of their awarding winning Men’s Range, London’s Soho coolest salon Fish have launched something for the girls. Angel Fish is a funky range of seven must have care and styling products that are the answer to ultra sexy hair anytime day or night. No other range offers this kind of extreme heat shield with an advanced formula that improves the smoothness of the hair, reduces friction and protects the strength of the hair shaft. With UV Filters, Panthenol and Glycerin you can be good to your hair whatever you get up to on your night out! We especially love the Puffer Fish Volumising Root Spray approx $20.

Hard To Get

2008-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone wondered how Gwyneth Paltrow kept those glistening locks through pregnancy, a hectic schedule and living in London Smog? The answer is the cult Japanese brand, Molto Bene B: Oce Hair Care. A bit of a mouthful but worth it for the headful of vibrant, hydrated locks you will get from using these lovelies. Silk proteins and amino acids shampoo, treat and repair for even the most damaged, dull disaster hair. Hard to get, easy to love. The range starts at $16 and goes up to $64.00 but in our opinion is worth every yen…sorry dollar.

Let It Snow

2008-01-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Snow. Wind. Cold. A brand new idea for smooth, silky skin for all of our cold-weather gal pals. Product Body's new complexion balm, Ski Bomb, $18, slips under makeup to help smooth the complexion. Enriched with shea, cocoa, macadamia and sal butters to moisturize, as well as beeswax for protection and a healthy dose of vitamin E, fragrance-free Ski Bomb can also be worn alone on bare skin. It's indispensable and in demand when tempetures drop to protect your skin from harsh weather conditions so that you can do whatever you want this winter.

Do you know a mama-to-be? Gift something from Joanna's new line, Mama Bomb. Specially formulated to nourish, protect, and soothe the fragile skin of babies and the delicate skin of mothers.

Camouflaging Darkness to Light

2008-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

For us brunettes gone blonde, it’s not always easy timing the next salon appointment with “new growth.” Most of know us it takes about three weeks for dark roots to break scalp ground. And yet, us busy girls try to stretch those visits too far apart? So, what’s a bottled-blonde to do between touch-ups?

N-A-T-U-R-I-A.

For just $21, this hair-coloring product is a blonde’s best lifesaver. Last month, as the Christmas holiday crept upon our life, there was no time to schedule time with Jerry (our colorist). So, we had bought Natural for one of those rainy days when a salon appointment is out of the question. And Rene Furterer Naturia Dry Shampoo, filled in our darkness with light in three easy steps:

· Spritz 6-10 inches away from dark roots,

· Massage into the head Let dry for 10-15 minutes

· Gently brush tresses, blend into other hair color and voila

Sudsy Hand Candy

2008-01-22T19:34:00.000-08:00

When panache is an important aspect of your life, it’s only inevitable that hand washing would be an indulgent experience. That’s why Daub and Bauble fits the hygiene order. Hands can almost feel its moisturizing ingredients: a blend of vitamin E, aloe vera and vegetable glycerin.

Fragrances are potent but not too overbearing. Scents are bold yet not too ostentatious to alienate the wearer. Tried the Sirocco, dubbed the Italian’s popular table fruit, it smells of sweet oranges spiked with cloves balanced to a subtle perfection. But that’s not all.

The soft Hand Soap, $9 comes in three decorative designs. They are actually limited editions presented in an eco-friendly bottle. It’s the type of hand candy that goes well beyond washing and moisturizing, trancending into something intoxicatingly delicious.

Daily Special

2008-01-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

Feed your face literally with the with yummy, indulgent sweet and savory skin treats from Befine Food Skincare. Create a recipe for skin success with products such as Pore Refining Scrub, $21 with Coconut and Jojoba to instantly tighten and clean pores or their Gentle Cleanser, $16 with Avena Sativa Oat Bran Extract to remove the every day with just a hint of mint. Befine have come up with the fact that the same foods that are good for you to eat are good for your skin and who are we to argue as we reach for Night Cream , $20 with Cocoa Caffeine to keep your skin working even when you are sleeping. Now guys, I think its time to work on something with white chocolate in it ……

Have Soap, Will Travel

2008-01-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday! Buy this soap and it will travel. The smell of lemongrass mingled in a rich minty scent evokes sensations of tingling refreshment. It’s how we started our day, this morning. While all hotels carry their brand of soap and shampoos, we like to carry our own. That’s why Danielle and Company is our favorite traveling companion. In case, you’re confused, Danielle and Company makes soap, our favorite soap. We prefer the Lemongrass and Peppermint Scent, $8 because it helps transition to focus for the long day ahead.

And for other naturalists, this soap comes in other fragrances and contains a 100% natural vegetable base of:

· Coconut Oil
· Palm Oil
· Castor Oil
· Safflower Oil
· Shea Butter
· Glycerin
· Purified Water
· Sodium Hydroxide (Lye)
· Sorbitol Sorbitan Oleate
· Soybean Protein

Exclusively available at http://www.danielleandcompany.com/shop/

Wash it Without Water

2008-01-02T16:08:00.000-08:00

Flat-ironed hair achieves a rapid refreshing with Ojon Rub-out Dry Cleanser. Our hair is slightly wavy so preserving thermal treatment helps minimize that amount of heat and stress applied to our tresses. So finding this easy way to clean and refresh our hair saves so much time. Now, it’s also ideal for a business trip, workout or just between washings. And, it even works on any hair types as it:

Clears impurities

Removes toxins

Eliminates excess oil

Erases product build-up

While some may think that $24 is a bit much, considering the convenience and that only takes a minute amount of Ojon Rub-out Dry Cleanser, it’s well worth the price.

Blackest Black

2007-12-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

Emmy-nominated actress Jenna Fischer, best known for playing the character of receptionist Pam Beesley in The Office (2005) is also known for her beautiful eyes. Jenna gets glam with Vanity Mark, the line created by makeup artist to the stars, Brett Freedman. His stand-out product, Lash Masacara is said to be to be the thickest, blackest mascara on earth, $16. The clump=free formula dries quickly, making it perfect for both on set and off set days.

An Original

2007-12-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Now onto NYE, Have you decided on a look? If not there's still time to go glam with MAC's newest collection Originals. Launched this week to much fan-fare, Originals have a lust for life that can never be squelched! Some classics can’t be improved upon – from Carol Channing to Björk to Blondie, Bowie, and every glam rocker and tightrope walker in-between. This season M·A·C pays tribute to all the high flyers, in the shades, shadows and styles that have stayed with them for all these years, and some of the late-greats they discontinued all too soon. It’s a throwback to the future. Originals are now and forever.

Are You A M·A·C Original? If so, compete with the movers and shakers in the makeup world in a MAC's contest to launch their new limited edition collection The Originals. The contest is a celebration of one’s individuality and originality—qualities intrinsic to the M·A·C brand. Launching nationally through the M·A·C website (http://www.maccosmetics.com/), the contest will also run regionally in 6 key cities across the United States: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Houston.

How to Enter?
To enter the “Are You A M·A·C Original?” contest on a national level, consumers can visit http://www.maccosmetics.com/ beginning December 26th to submit a picture of themselves wearing their favorite M·A·C products, along with 50 words on what makes them a M·A·C Original. The winner will be determined by votes online. The winner will receive a $1,000 M·A·C gift card and the complete Originals collection. Good Luck!

Lipstick
Rozz Revival Watermelon reddish pink (lustre)
Chintz on Chintz Sheer mid-tone yellow brown (lustre)
Utter Pervette Soft pastel pink (lustre)
Back to Del Rio Deep brown red (lustre)
Nouveau-Frou Beigey grey pink with white pearl (lustre)
Retrofluid Sheer dirty deep plum with gold and red pearl
Supersequin Plummy pink with silver pearl (lustre)
Twig-Twig Neutral brown plum (lustre)
Sandy B Light shell pink
Russian Red Intense bluish-red
Suggested Retail Price $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Lip Glass
Full on Lust Neutral brown pink (cream)
Avarice Mid-tone yellow red with soft red pearl (cream)
Real Desire Deep plum with red plum
Nico Now Mid-tone grey purple with multicoloured pearl (cream)
C-Thru Soft peached-beige with shimmer (cream)
Suggested Retail Price $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Small Eye Shadow

Daisychain Soft yellow beige with soft white pearl (satin)
Ochre Style Mid-tone yellow brown with gold (frost)
A Little Folie Mid-tone red brown (matte)
Memorabilia Dirty purple (matte)
Clue Mid-tone dirty grey with silver (matte)
Alum Mid-tone blue grey with soft blue pearl (frost)Charred Deep steelgrey with silver pearl

Pigment
Kitschmas Light airy shimmering pink/mauve pearl (frost)
Violet Vivid bright violet-purple (frost)
Melon Soft bright golden peach (frost)
Golden Olive High frosted green gold (frost)
Steel Blue Rich deep turquoise green-blue shone with
small pearl particle (pearl)
Suggested Retail Price $19.50 U.S./$23.50 CDN

Glitter
Reflects Blackened Red Sparkling burgundy
Reflects Very Pink Sparkling fuchsia pink
Reflects Transparent Teal Sparkling white with turquoise
Reflects Antique Gold Sparkling taupe
Suggested Retail Price $16.50 U.S./$20.00 CDN

Eye Pencil
Ebony Soft black
Coffee Muted brown
Indigo Muted greenish-blue
Suggested Retail Price $12.50 U.S./$15.00 CDN

Mascara X
Black Black
Suggested Retail Price $12.50 U.S./$15.00 CDN

Fresh'n Up

2007-12-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Get fresh this festive holiday with the heady scent of spruce and clean pine fragrances in a special soy candle designed to fill your home with seasonal scents. Hand poured soy candles are great to give or get with 50 hours of zero soot and toxin burning time, packaged with the usual kitschy home grown Sweet Grass Farm style. Emitting a strong burning scent that will fill your home wherever placed, the Pure Soy Wax Candles, $16 burn much longer than paraffin and are a renewable resource, so you can be good to the planet and your friends this Christmas!

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night." Wishing you and your a very Merry holiday.

Skin Defense Without a Knife

2007-12-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

There’s no need to opt for Botox, Fraxel or Affirm. There’s ample time to defer the injections, laser treatments and other nifty nip and tuck procedures. Age Defence is to the rescue. Synonymous with its brand name, “nude skin care,” this is the moisturizer of all moisturizers.

How it works?
It not only hydrates the skin but also detoxifies, all the while acting as the skin’s best defense. Age Defence works in-sync with the body’s biology. During the day, antioxidants (green tea, ginger turmeric) prevent free radicals from aging or oxidative stress. At night, the emollient’s probiotic nutrients stimulate CoQ10 production for the immune system and promote cell renewal for rejuvenation.

Is it natural?
With more than a dozen pure herbs and extracts, finally there’s a moisturizer that is abundant in organic ingredients and free of chemicals. For instance, Age Defence does not contain any sulfate, of parabens, or phthalates.

What to expect?

For $100, there’s no need to inject, cut are insert. Simply expect to squash aging and preserve a youthful appearance.

Where to buy it?

Nudeskincare.com or Barneys New York.

Antiquitease

2007-12-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Need a last minute gift? Head on over to the MAC counter to lap up the luxury and old fashioned decadence of the new Antiquitease range from those marvels at Mac this holiday season. The season's metallic trend is hot here too.

Rich hues and baroque blended shades of bronze, silver and gilded gold veneers combine in this shimmering range of glass-like finishes and subtle sheens. From simmering lipstick to tinted lipglass and mineralized eyshadows, the antiquitease range will have you reaching for your silk stockings and lace gloves as Mac flirts with style and fashion of another time. The Royal Assets set features six eye shadows in cool, warm, smoky or metallic shades for $36. Curiousitease, a set of five pigments and glitters in a choice of warm or cool shades. The artists at MAC are also taking appointments for New Year makeovers.

We Love: the Heirlooms brush set (choose from eye, face or basic brushes) comes packaged in a tweed clutch with a hint of metallic sparkle — snazzy enough to carry during a night on the town. Pick one up for yourself and one for a last minute gift. $48.

Magic Moves

2007-12-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

Keep your hair on literally with Magic Move Hair Wax, $24.95 for crispy free hair days. The secret of many a Hollywood hairdresser the magically texturising non greasy pomade adds oomph without oil and can put the hold back in the most flaccid of follicles without hardening or harming hair. Available in three fast sculpting formulas for smoothness, shine and volume the Magic Move Wax is a worthy product addition to his and hers bathroom cabinets that allows you to screw with your hair several times a day for changing looks – purchase with care, may cause addiction to mirrors and shiny surfaces due to constant hair style admiring.

Lavish His Face

2007-12-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

There are three products to turn him onto. Since, most men are not about girlie hygiene products, Jaime Earl Groom products cover the basics: shave, shower, and shampoo. The line runs the gamut. Starting with an ultra soothing Groom Shave Gel, $26 made of organic aloe juice, the shaving cream brings new meaning to lather.

He’ll love this face treat because there’s no redness involved. Naturally formulated with meadow-foam, cranberry, and known for its anti-inflammatory properties, Jaime Earl Groom Pre-Shave Oil, $20 reduces skin irritation.

For the dude with sensitive skin, it’s so gentle but effective, it works on skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. And then, there’s the Groom Face Conditioner, $32. Applied right after a good shave, organic elements like aloe juice, black willowbark, and jojoba oil—make up this refreshing face conditioner. While it does not leave a tacky residue, this face drink is lightly textured to rapidly penetrate the skin.

Get Long, Voluminous Lashes

2007-12-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

For added volume and incredible length. Applying Blinc’s Lash Primer, $15 as a base coat before Blinc Mascara, $24 will ensure your most breathtaking, fabulous lashes yet! Vitamin enriched conditioning and healing agents fortify lashes to increase resistance to breakage.

Blinc is the original mascara invented to form tiny water-resistant ‘tubes’ around your lashes, rather than painting them like conventional mascaras. The tubes surround your lashes to amplify their volume and length, giving you full, amazing looking lashes that will last day and night! Blinc Mascara binds to the lashes so it can’t smudge, run, clump or flake, yet all it takes is the combination of warm water and gentle pressure for the tubes to effortlessly slide off your lashes without leaving any tint or residue.

Lip Service

2007-12-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

Your lips do all the talking, even when you’re not saying a word. To help you get your point across, Jane Iredale has created a collection of spectacular lip colors that don’t just look remarkable, they actually condition and protect. Formulated with soothing pomegranate and grape seed extracts, these exciting shades also contain naturally plumping mint and ginger. So when you really want to be heard, you can still whisper… although we love Kate, a true blue red that's perfect for holiday season. PureMoist Lipcolors, $19 contain no synthetic dyes, and are conditioning and moisturizing with a sun protection factor of SPF 18.

Zia Naturals

2007-12-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Zia Natural Face Powder, a mineral-based makeup that delivers oil-free coverage, is a new entry in the naturals arena, and an example of the growing popularity of mineral cosmetics. Zia has launched a line that is free of talc, mineral oil, and artificial colors, which is said to provide light coverage to even skin tones and minimize the appearance of fine lines and imperfections. According to the company, mineral pigments diffuse light to soften fine lines and surface imperfections; cornstarch and natural clay control surface oil and shine; and a refillable compact helps reduce waste. Natural is clearly a growing niche in the color cosmetics market.

Zia Naturals Foundation, $16 enhances and protects skin with mineral-based pigments that provide oil-free natural-looking coverage. Antioxidants and lavender help calm skin and defend against damage. Finding a perfect match shouldn't be a problem since it's available in ten shades. The line is predominately sold via health food stores like Whole Foods and Wild Oats as well as online at http://www.zianatural.com/.

Curly-Qs Coiffed to Perfection

2007-12-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

Everyday is an organically good hair day with Alterna's new organic formulations infused with hemp for luscious locks. Infused with certified organic botanicals and color hold, ty=hese sulfate free products will stregthen your hair and protect it from color fade and UVA/UVB damage. The tree varities, Repair Shampoo, Shine SHampoo and Straight Shampoo follow the success of organic varieties working with or against wavy and curly tresses. Alterna's Hemp Seed Straightening Balm, $13 keeps hair bone straight. It even eliminates frizzes when applied to unruly areas.

But, curls and waves don’t have to go straight either. Alterna's Hemp Seed Texturizing Glaze, $16.50 helps waves achieve texture enhancement. The patented, formulated ultra-hydrating hemp seed oil is a nutrient rich activating enzymetherapy that conditions every follicle, makes curls easy to manage, while never compromising their body or bounce.

Handi-Self-Care

2007-12-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

If your favorite nail spa is booked and your nails are a mess, ten minutes is all it takes for a quick, pre-party nail fix.

Wash hands and remove old nail polish.

File nails using an emery board with fine grains.

Soak fingertips for five minutes in sudsy water.

Push back cuticles.

Buff a gentle sweeping pattern to smooth out rough ridges and then wipe with a cotton swab saturated in nail polish remover.

Polish with a basecoat, let dry for three minutes. Repeat with two coats of nail lacquer.

Repair any smudges with a orangewood stick dipped in nail polish remover.

Our picks for this season’s hottest nail colors:
Lippmann Collection Nail Color, Rehab, $15
OPI Nail Lacquer, Russian Navy, $7.50
Zoya Nail Polish, Indigo, $8

Why You'll Love Them: Deep blues, like vampy reds, look classic on nails, but their sophisticated, earthy character softens them, making navy, we think, almost as wearable as baby pink or beige. Take a walk on the dark side, which shade will you choose?

A Flush in a Rush

2007-12-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

Get up and glow this chilly season with Smashbox, O Glow, $26 which will have you turning heads as your cheeks are turning a natural blush. Containing a yummy Goji- Berry C Complex to create a microcirculatory effect your skin will turn from pale to pretty with just one slick of the handy stick.

Bursting with essential skin anti oxidants treats such as Pomegranate seeds, marine plankton and the beauty guru’s favorite Vitamin C the clear gel reacts instantly when applied to skin to mimic your natural rosy blush that will last all day. Working on the lightest to the darkest of skins, O Glow dabbed with fingertips and blended over cheekbones is a make up bag essential for every rainy, wintery day of the week.

Triplemint Foot Crème

2007-12-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

For all you Manolo wearing aficionados party season is once again upon us which means its time to bare you soles and tout a pair of tootsies that any self deserving Carrie Bradshaw follower would be proud of. Develop a foot fetish for the fabulous Cake, Cake Walk Triplemint Foot Crème, $16 with lovely jubbly moisturizing avocado and mango and a kick of fresh spearmint and peppermint that will keep you dancing till dawn. Heavenly when massaged into rough tired feet, ten times better when massaged by someone else – so put your feet up, relax and let someone else do the fancy footwork for pedi perfect pinkies every day.

Rene Furterer Tonucia

2007-12-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

I've been a fan of Rene Furterer for years. I love the unique, hard-to-pronounce ingredients and quirky green packaging. I agree with the idea, no two heads are alike. Which is why each Rene Furterer hair product is based on the proven theory that hair problems are caused by different scalp conditions. If your hair deserves magnificent care, take a look at the new Tonucia Toning and Densifying Masque, $40. It's an intense conditioner that strengthens fine hair as it fattens stands.

Hand Held

2007-12-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

Do job interviews, blind dates or high-powered introductions give you a case of sweaty palms? Us too. Now there is no need to worry that someone with be victimized by a clammy handed grip. MoistureAbsorb, $30 by By142 is a handy-dandy moisturizer that elminiates wetness, thanks to its propietary key ingredients, Poly-pore 200 which absorbs 1110 times its weight in moisture. We even put a bit on the soles of our feet and our Malanhos remainsed remarkably slip free. Its loaded with antibacterials agents with a faint, fresh scent.

Hint of Tint

2007-12-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

Benetint, $28 by San Francisco’s infamous Benefit give your lips and cheeks a rosy glow. It is kiss-proof, water-proof and entirely goof-proof making it the best lip and cheek tint we've ever tried. So if you're looking for a provocative glow, yet not willing to sacrifice your innocence, try this. Simply apply three small stripes of the rose-colored liquid across your cheek, blend in a circular motion with a sponge. Tip, skip the fingertips since the concentrated color tends to stain. When applying to your lips, apply with a q-tip. There, now you are ready to kiss that gorgeous guy of yours under the mistletoe.

Skin Defense

2007-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hydration is the main ingredient to youthful skin. Right in time for the extremities of winter, blistery temperatures call for these defensive skin tactics:

Hydrate Hydrate
Consuming six to eight glasses of water helps maintain suppleness.

Go Green
Opt for plant-based foods deep in greens: broccoli, spinach and kale because are abundant in vitamins and nutrients that prevent the skin from oxidizing.

Moisturize from the Outside – In
Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate, $28 is the ultimate skin nightcap. When applied before bedtime, it nourishes the skin with moisture -- from the outside in.

Sleep for 8
And just after you dab a few drops of Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate, $68 replenish the skin’s cells with eight hours of shuteye.

The 12-year-old line recently inaugurated a store on Duke of York Square, just off the fashionable King's Road in London. Lucky brits!

Nouveau Candle Glow

2007-12-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Move over vanilla, exotic fruit and other fresh scents. A nouveau, luxe candle steals the spotlight. Not an ordinary glowing votive, Barbara Barry Home collection intricately indulges the sense of smell. Developed with fragrance whiz, Laura Slatkin's private label company, Candela Group, the line sparked our sense of smell. For a subtly intoxicating mood, the interior designer mixed the aromas of amber, moss with ylang ylang as Oriental Woods suggests. A concoction of rare red mangrove bark, maple, and other herbal blends defines the Twigs’ aromatic scent. This masculine smooth fragrance is reminiscent of a man but androgynous and available for anyone.

A Sensational Body

2007-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Q: How do celebrities like Carmen Elektra attain a sensual glow from head to toe?

It’s all in the tanning lotion, bronzer or the “skin perfector.” Legs, arms and other body parts turn into a velvety smooth glow with Per-fekt Body Perfection Gel, $48. This skin emollient glides on with ease, and dries rapidly, streak-free. Instantaneously, the body is transformed into a sexy, sun-kissed radiance.

The body not only gets a beauty makeover, it also tones the skin. Per-fekt Body Perfection Gel is the first body emollient with Hyaluronic Filling Spheres, formulated to hydrate the skin, and enhance elasticity.

The Face Choice Awards

2007-12-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

When it comes to putting your best face forward, it’s all in the foundation. A flawless look that renders impeccable coverage tops the list of requirements. The idea behind foundation is creating an illusion of natural perfection. Foundations without preservatives are ideal for people with rosacea, sensitive, or acne prone skin. For instance, Bare Escentuals Weightless Foundation, $25 offers excellent coverage for blemished skin. It even contains built-in sunscreen protection and comes in 12 shades to match any complexion. What more could us girls with sensitve skin ask for?

No Tangles Here!

2007-12-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Stressed out tresses will appreciate some serious soothing and smoothing from Hamadi Shea Spray, $18 for the hair. A recent Oprah favorite, the spray is an organic luxury lifesaver for split ends and frizzy flyaways (hell-o winter) with kelp and avocado to keep your hair fighting fit. Pure essential oils of Clary Sage, Rosewood and Ylang Ylang provide shine and strength whether blow drying or as a quick fix for dry hair with protective Shea butter to dull away and shine today. Biodegradable with no artificial ingredients, colours or perfumes will ensure you can protect both hair and planet with Hamadi Shea Spray.

Sweet Treat

2007-12-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

A hint of sugary sweetness, but with a bit of depth and mystery, Hand Candy introduced Hard Candy Fragrance, $55. Formulated with notes of pink peppercorn and white tea, rounded out with the essence of rose and jasmine, and just when you reach it’s caramely sweetness, sultry vanilla and cashmere musk offer the right balance of playful and sexy!

Swirling around the unique vanity-worthy bottle are gorgeous black graphics of flowers, berries, branches, and curls. A unique jewel-cut pincushion tops the bottle in bright hot pink or green, and will sparkle when the light shines through it -or when your friends are admiring it! Making , Hard Candy fragrance the perfect gift for all your fashion fragrance forward gal pals.

Sunshine Daydream

2007-12-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

Does your current polish wear away at the edges of your cuticles causing the pre-manicure appearance within days of getting your nails done? Are you ready to go to war with this phenomenon that makes the trip to the manicurist seem like it was for nothing? Defeat this issue by swipping on a dab of Creative Nail Design, Solar Oil, $9 after a trip to the spa. Aside from making your hands smell sweet and delicious, it will keep your nails looking pretty and hydrated days longer than if you had never used it at all.

Brighten Your Holiday

2007-12-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

The girls over at Zents sent over the most beautifully fragrant boxed candle, we have ever seen. From their limited edition holiday candle collection comes three spa-grade scents in Home for the Holidays, City Sidewalks and our personal favorite, Winter Wonderland. Designed with your health in mind, these Holiday Candles, $38 are made with 100% natural soy and vegetable waxes and all-cotton wicks. Anyone on your holday list- from teachers to stylists will apprecite a gift infused with cheerful nostalgia, invoking thoughts of many joyful memories to come.

Home for the Holidays surrounds you with warmth and goodwill… delicious aromas of cinnamon, clove and sandalwood waft from freshly tied pomanders destined for the homes of friends. Steamy wisps of mulled cider dance in the kitchen. Laughing around the crackling fire, the spirit of the season fills every heart.

Winter Wonderland takes your breath away with its brilliant beauty… an enchanting sleigh ride under a canopy of majestic evergreens and bright stars leaves you spellbound. Snuggling in a warm wool blanket, mesmerized by the crystalline sparkle of the moonlit snow, the world is like a dazzling dream.

City Sidewalks bustle with cheer and exuberance… awe-filled shoppers excitedly crowd around spectacular sights. Luscious fruit-filled cakes sweeten the air as ice skaters clasp mitten-covered hands. Berries adorn festive windowsills, while inside bubbling champagne glasses are raised to toast new and old friends.

Think Zinc

2007-11-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

Relastin puts you on the fast track to fabulous skin in no time. It puts your body’s very own skin cells to work in order to promote the formation of elastin. The Zinc firming complex penetrates deep within your skin to restore that elasticity that skin loses as it ages. But what’s so fantastic about this little miracle in a jar? It doesn’t just make your skin look firmer, it also diminishes fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging that the years cruelly place upon your face. ASealing the deal, Relastin Skin Revitalizer, $69 locks in moisture and restores skin’s brightness. Those factors alone make this a fantastic product worth trying.

Organic Face Time

2007-11-29T10:00:00.000-08:00

The tantalizing fresh aroma of John’s Masters Organic Rose Foaming Face Wash, $19 gives face time new meaning. This organic facial cleanser is naturally formulated with the world’s finest botanicals that work to enhance the skin’s suppleness and water retention. The ultimate foaming face wash for any skin type including sensitive ones, it doubles as an eye makeup remover. Mild and safe enough for a baby, John’s Masters Organic Rose Foaming Face Wash is so pure that the essential rose oil is steamed distilled, assuring absolute cell rejuvenation.

Smooth As Silk

2007-11-28T10:00:00.001-08:00

If you want smooth lipstick that gives a silky finish, Benefit Silky Finish Lipstick, $16 is the lipstick for you. Not only will your lips feel soft, but they'll look incredibly sexy. The unique adjustable coverage color allows you to wear as much or as little as you want. If you prefer sheer color, smooth the slanted tube over your lips once or go glam, by smoothing on more for a deeper hue.

Choose from three unique looks: Lana offers light neutral shades, Gabbi presents medium neutral shades, and Betty proposes deep neutral shades. Our favorite, My Treat, a rose with pop that looks great on all skintones. Packaged in a one-of-a-kind custom lipstick case, it's the ultimate status symbol that's so fabulously sexy, you'll want one in every shade.

Carmindy of What Not To Wear features her favorite Benefit recommendations in her 5 Minute Face routine. Beauty Buffet subscribers who purchase any of the products from the 5 Minute quick and easy makeup guide, will get a FREE High Beam by using the promo code CARMINDY at check out.

Sarah Michelle Would Be Proud

2007-11-27T10:00:00.000-08:00

Anatomicals have come up with yet another fun and fabulous product to have you dying to try and wanting to give. A perfect pick me up or present for the chick that has everything, Anatomicals, Puffy the Eye Mask Slayer, $6 is a cooling gel based mask that will have party peepers open, up and ready to go in no time. Simply pop in the fridge and allow to cool for a quick 30 minutes the eye bag slayers will begin to vanquish the nightmare of baggy eyes and leave eyes looking refreshed, revitalized and definitely more vamp than vampire. Available online for delivery worldwide.

Gold Rush

2007-11-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

Jane Iredale’s Gold Mine, $58 palette contains six colors that you’re going to find extremely wearable, as well as capitivating. The colors shimmer in shades of gold, silver, pink, bronze, lilac and our persoanl favorite, champagne. These loose powders actually contain authentic 24-Karat food-grade gold, making the safe for anywhere on your body. The possibilites are endless; mix silver with a little hair gel for all-out dazzling hairdo, put bronze in your favorite body lotion for sun-kissed glow or add winter wonderland dazzle to your eyes with lilac on your lids. Wherever you desire some shimmer, go for it because Jane Iredale’s Gold Dust, $12 gives you the perfect option to gild your skin in the most elegant glow this holiday season.

Beauty With Benefits

2007-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Former high level fashion executive at Donna Karan and a prominent equestrian, Marie Regan created Piaffe makeup to share her mothers beaty secret, horse chestnut. This remarkable extract naturally stimulates circulation in the skin, which accounts for many a-lister with natural flushed cheeks and glowing faces.

We've found their Perfect Cake Eyeliner, $20 will stay put day or night. If that impresses you, try Piaffe’s Silk Shimmer, $22 these eye shadows actually look like little bottles of nail polish, but contain holographic pigments made of minerals. One sweep creates a slight shimmer of reflective pigments that reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Not limited to eye shadows and eyeliner, Piaffe also makes a complete range of cosmetics and skincare to help you look fantastic.

Skin Food For the Starving

2007-11-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Feed your face for a flawless finish Smashbox Style with their revolutionary High Definition Healthy Foundation, $38. Packed with a multitude of skin loving goodies such as cell energizing Ribose for skin renewal and Vitamin C to fight those free radical robbers, Smashbox High Definition healthy Foundation will create a flawless finish as it moisturizes and firms throughout the day. Skin loves sun protection so spoil it a with UVA/UVB SPF15 sun factor to further fight the wrinkles and lave skin refreshed and revitalized. Slick on with their Smashbox must have make-up artist foundation brush #13 and get ready for a flawless skin inside and out.

Cream of the Crop

2007-11-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Shu Uemuras know that makeup shouldn’t be bad for your skin, but should benefit it since you wear it every single day. Shu Uemura’s Nobara Cream Foundation, $27 provides you with adjustable coverage and gives skin a stunning satin powder finish. It's water resistant for days you find yourself stuck in the rain or poolside and is suitable for all skin types. Commonly used in the film industry, it's the only thing we'd trust for a perfect, natural-looking (yet better) complexion in photos. Available in array in an array of different shades to match your particular skin tone, it's not too late to look your best in holiday photos. Smile and say "Shu Uemura".

Stay a While Longer

2007-11-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Prepare yourself for marathon shopping black Friday, holiday season late nights into early mornings and round the clock non stop wear with Prescriptives Here to Stay 24 Hour Mascara, $19.50. It has the competition licked for staying power. Each individual lash is lifted, primed and plumped for delicate drama without clumping in a smudge resistant formula. Combine with your favorite Prescriptives mascara to make it completely girlie movie tears and water resistant in two eye opening shades of luscious black and subtle brown. Here To Stay Mascara is for girls who demand gorgeous, glamorous, defined lashes with long lasting color both day and night.

Goodnight, Dry Hair

2007-11-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

The trick to manageable silky healthy hair is in a revitalizing hair product: Ted Gibson, Goodnight Replenish Hair Serum, $200. Yes, two hundred dollars and so worth it.

Why it’s a necessity: 100 % pure silky, shiny healthy hair

Why It Works: Damaged devitalized hair finds balance and body from the nourishing ingredients of Ted Gibson Goodnight™. Extracts of Wild Orchids soothingly indulge the scalp. An infusion of wheat proteins reconstruct dry, brittle damaged split ends. Vitamins A, B and E repair, rebuild and moisturize overburdened tresses.

How its Used: Right before bedtime, fill a dropper, apply to damaged/dry hair and the scalp. Then, massage the scalp; brush through to the hair’s ends. Don’t worry about staining, Ted Gibson Goodnight immediately penetrates hair follicles. And voila, goodnight – goodbye, adieu damaged dry hair.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

2007-11-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Exclusive to Sephora, the No!No! Thermal Hair Remover, $250 is a revolutionary new concept in hair removal, suitable for all hair types and skin colors. The old saying no pain, no gain simply doesn't apply here. There's no pain, you don't have to wait for hair to grow long in order to remove it, and there is no skin irritation like in-grown hairs, red pimples, or rashes to cover up. Although not a miracle cure for unwanted hair, you can think of this baby as more of a reduction method to help keep embarrassing esthetician appointments to a minimum. Like any professional hair treatment, it takes time and dedication to achieve your desired results. The same holds true for the revolutionary no!no! hair removal system; with all the right moves, stubble-free, super smooth skin will be yours.

What do you think? Have you tried it?

For a limited time, Beaty Buffet subscribers can get free shipping on any Sephora purchase over $50 by entering FIFTY at checkout.

Mouthful Of Temptation

2007-11-19T10:51:00.000-08:00

Every woman wants kissable lips. What better way to entice your partner than by tasting like a delicious chocolate truffle? Colorscience Box of Chocolates, $150 houses six, delectable candy-coated lip glazes that can worn worn individually or layered over Lip Polish, $17.50 for your own custom color. The box includes sweet sensations in; Suga' Baby a toasty cinnamon shade for sexy spice, Gum Drop, a touch of coral with a trace of not so innocent peach, Jelly Bean, a perfect shade of ripe and ready apricot, Chocolate Covered Cherry, no description needed, Taffy, a fresh, perfectly natural pink and Cotton Candy, bright raspberry frost with a silver shine. Packaged in a gold foil box, the luxury glosses are infused with delicious chocolate extract and a hint of mint for hours on the lips and not a moment on the hips.

Pimple Point-and-Shoot

2007-11-17T00:24:00.000-08:00

Zeno Pro, Acne Clearing Device, $185 is a tad bit expensive, but it’s cheaper than a trip to the dermatologist's offie. This sweet pink little hand-held, battery-powered medical device, cleared by the FDA, is used to treat mild to moderate inflammatory acne pimples. Simply touch it to each blemish 2 ½ minutes and wait with baited breath in anticipation. Yes, 2 ½ minutes is a bit of an aggravation, but wow, it really works. Despite a little warmth and some redness that lasts at the most -ten minutes. You are not going to be disappointed. Simply repeat the process in 12 hours, go to bed and viola, you'll awaken blemish free. Well, not quite, but just two to three treatment cycles of 2 1/2 minutes spread over 12 to 24 hours can help shorten a pimple's life cycle. Blemish free skin is now that simple.

Of Beauty

2007-11-16T11:30:00.000-08:00

MAC's latest limited edition, Of Beauty, proves that beauty has its form- and its mediums. A play on light and dimension, this collection boasts tow new beauties; Beauty Powder/Loose and , Studio Lights, both coordinated with the creamy soft highlights of color. Beauty has found a new form, radiant and sculpturesque with MAC's Of Beauty collection. On counter, November 15, 2007 at all M·A·C locations or 1.800.387.6707.

Beauty Powder/Loose Profile
A light sheer loose sumptuously pearlescent powder in soft colours with precious/unusual reflective qualities for a glamorous shimmering effect, highlighting and blushing. Gives a wash of colour and luminous shimmer to eyes and cheeks. Provides a sheer coverage with a lightweight feel. Limited edition. Suggested Retail Price: $21.00 U.S./$25.00 CDN

Dancing Light Creamy gold with white gold reflect
Drizzlegold Fleshy beige with copper and gold reflect
Natural Flare Peachy champagne with white and gold reflect
Sunspill Coral Peach with white and gold reflect
Tenderdusk Soft pink with red and gold reflect
Soft Flame Rich plum with reddish copper reflect

Studio Lights
A softly tinted, sheer, reflective, semi-fluid colour used on the under-eye area to help brighten the look of dark circles. Can also be used to highlight and contour key areas of the face. Limited edition. Suggested Retail Price: $14.50 U.S./$17.50 CDN

Skin Lure Soft creamy beige
Ideal Pink Palest pinkish beige
Smoothspice Caramel
Frangipan Pale golden yellow
Sand Soft peachy beige

183 Flat Buffer Brush
flat-faced buffer brush ideal for applying, distributing and blending powders flawlessly over the face. Limited edition. Suggested Retail Price: $40.00 U.S

188, Small Duo Fiber Face Brush
A flat-topped, full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of any formula colour – fluid, cream, powder or pigment. Ideal for creating soft layers or adding textures. Made from a soft blend of goat. Suggested Retail Price: $34.00 U.S

222 Tapered Blendng Brush
Applying, contouring or highlighting powder-based products such as eye shadow, powder, or Pigment. Soft round "brush" tapers into a tip. Of natural fibres. Suggested Retail Price: $28.00

Count Me In

2007-11-15T22:41:00.000-08:00

It's 12:59AM and I can't sleep so I thought I'd rattle off a quickie. Get your mind out of the gutter. What's on my mind? Weight. After spending a week beachside in Mexico with la familia, I hoped and prayed that no one would ask me when I was due. Yes, I had a baby --um, a year ago; and hello, what the hell is wrong with me, if I still have a good 40+ pounds to lose? OK, I'm fat. There, I said it. O-U-T-L-O-U-D! Tomorrow I'm going to start working out. No excuses- even if I only get 10 minutes a day- at least it's a start. Thank you to Shannon over at A Girl's Gotta Spa, who inspired me when she posted about the Body Wrap.

In the Brush

2007-11-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

Brushes, combs and other styling utensils contribute their share of split-ends. Depending on the texture of your hair, different brushes work with certain hair types. Hybrid bristles brushes work smart on normal or even thick short hair. Thick to coarse hair calls for a nylon bristle brush. Because they apply excessive stress to the hair, wooden and metal combs are a no-no. As for a brush for all discerning hair types, the Mason Pearson, Popular Mixture, $135 keeps those split ends at bay. Budget hairistas can enjoy the same benfits, sans the price with Sonia Kaushka's, Bristle Hair Brush, $14.99. I recently purchased two, one for each of my girls "princess" brushes (story to follow) and dare I say, these are a very, very close second. If you are thinking about getting one, hurry, the website is already sold out, but your local Target store may still have one or two lingering.

Strange Obsession

2007-11-15T15:03:00.000-08:00

Naturally, mango, basil, jasmine and a botanical musk are a unique obsession. For me, it was an inevitable addiction. As a perfume oil aficionado and an adorer of mild, docile fragrances, Tropical Vial, $185 by Strange Invisible Perfume was an obvious extension of my reserved but eccentric personality. But for some, it’s a summer scent. My husband calls the eau de parfum exotic and has an unusual fixation with it. I, often catch him smelling my clothes, rummaging through my medicine cabinet looking for the vial or gently stroking my neck with his nose for a whiff, of his strange obsession.

Good Enough To Eat

2007-10-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

An eternal favorite of fabulous sexy songstresses such as Kylie Minogue, Gwen Stefani and Fergie, British made and worldwide available Jelly Pong Pong have served up another edible treat for bath time babes. Introducing Soap Popsicles, $10 by Jelly Pong Pong in lip smacking flavors of Neapolitan, Lolli-Choc and our personal favorite the Love Stick, the popsicles come complete with ice cream sticks, delicious bow detailing and a bite mark to show how deliciously irresistible they are. Concocted from kosher glycerin and saponified oils, the popsicles will cleanse, moisturize and melt away stress and are a perfect gift of a sweetie for your….well, sweetie!

Fake It To Make It This Party Season

2007-10-31T11:31:00.001-07:00

From the surfing shores of Australia comes Sugarbaby, an ultra trendy range that is ready and available now in the US and Canada. Summer may be gone but it doesn’t mean your tan has taken a vacation. Oh la la this tan in a can makes you look like you stepped off the plane from a tropical holiday! It smells fantastic too and SugarBaby has some how managed to do the impossible – no smelly fake tan smell! The color is golden, it really doesn’t streak but do as the instructions say and give the can a really, really good shake before you commence your tanning regime. Golden Glamour, $18 is this winter’s party season must have product for sure!

Fashion Week Mayhem

2007-09-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

Please excuse our absence- we've been in full Fashion Week frenzy mode. You can keep up with the hottest beauty trends from concept to creation this season; MAC Cosmetics has partnered with WWD.com to launch an exclusive beauty site during Fashion Week. This sub-site will provide daily beauty tips and trends on top runway shows from New York, London, Paris and Milan. Each featured show will have the runway shot, the Key Makeup Artist's inspiration, and detailed information about M.A.C products used backstage. Log-on and check it out. The site will also be active for 45 days after Fashion Week ends, as a continued reference.

Suds Above the Rest

2007-08-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

If you don't have a bubble room or apothecary in your neck of the woods, head on over to Etsy.com, where you'll find a bevy of wonderful, handmade soaps. The selection is great and the prices are even better! Here are our three favorites...

You Stink Soap has a wonderful colorful confections of Large Fragrance Bars from Asian Plum, a blend of plum, orchid, daffodil, jasmine, musk and vanilla to French Vanilla Pear, the perfect match of french vanilla and sweet, ripe pear with a tiny touch of tartness- not too sweet or over scented.

Bath Life is devoted to soap doesn't contain synthetic ingredients. Believe us, your skin can tell the difference. We love, CloudBreak, the heady scents of summer sun and ocean waves. A fresh, crisp beachy fragrance that makes us want to pick up a good book, kick back and relax. And at three bucks for two ounces who can't afford to go on this vacation?

Head over to Mad City Sue. Priced at $4 a bar, you can afford to try a few. Go for the Rosemary Mint cold-pressed soap, it's TDF. Swirls of purple and teal float in a cocoa butter base and blended with peppermint and spearmint essential oils and a subtle touch of rosemary and creamy vanilla. For us, this bar is the perfect way to kick-star our early mornings. Although we heard her Whipped Sugar Scrubs are equally divine, they were temporarily on summer hiatus. They'll be back when the temperatures start to cool, so check back in a few weeks.

Soappy Love

2007-08-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

Soappy Love creates something for everyone - from your little mudpie making neighbors to your fashionista girlfriend. Every item is wrapped and ready to give or display in your home. Of course, they're not just nice to look at. They lather up like crazy, smell delicious, and leave your skin feeling clean and pampered.

Just in time for Halloween, the Candy Corn Soapsicle, $10 smells like real candy corn candy. Guaranteed to make any ghost giggle, get one soon before they disappear.

Demo Soap

2007-08-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Located in Toronto, Canada Demo Soap features a bevy of unique, handmade glycerin soaps from traditional herbal scents like lavender and rose to my personal favorites, the 'fun gifts'. Packaged in cute take-out boxes, the Mint Chocolate Truffles, $12 look so authetentic one might be persuaded to take a tiny bite -just to make sure it's actually soap. Ditto for the Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, $12. The Rainbow Cupcake, $6 is a sweet-smelling, colorful creation that brought an instant smile to our face.

Bigss and Featherbelle

2007-08-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

We love, love the bright, cheery packaging at Bigss and Featherbelle. The girls graciously sent over a collection of their soaps. The fresh and witty aromas are a sensory kalideoscope in the Mini Bar, $22. We popped the top and the room exploded with a confetti of fragrances. The box contains eight mini sampler soaps from the moisturizing Goodie Bar made with cocoa butter, goat's milk and vitamin e which left our skin silky smooth (no need for lotion) to the refreshing Polar Bar made with brisk peppermint and petit grain that severed as an instant wake-up call -even if it was only 5:30 am. This box is guaranteed to brighten your morning and get your day off to a wildly adventurous start.

Good, Clean Fun

2007-08-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

A good bar of soap is among life's simple pleasures. Please friends, family and guests with fragrant, eye-candy soaps that delight the senses. This week we're featuring our favorite luxuriously unique, artisan designed soaps.

Put a little Zen in your shower, some 'Om' in your tub with Nancy Funk's beautifully hand crafted collection. Her meditating Buddha, $7 will give new meaning to your morning bathing ritual. Isn't cleanliness next to godliness? Her Red Lotus Spice Sumo Soap, $7 will not only put a smile on your face, but is sure to kick start your work week. Wrapped in a corn husk, the Tamale, Chili Pepper, and Salsa Soaps, $10, look so authentic; you'll have to keep them out of the kitchen. Beautifully photographed, Hapaculture stocks a array of clear-cut winners.

Peaches & Cream

2007-08-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

Wading through an e-mail in-box flooded with press releases, we noticed that one of them looked personal, so we quickly double-clicked it. It was Tarte's new Peaches & Cream, $35, a *limited-edition*, velvety confection mineral foundation. Available in four oil-free shades from fair to tan, the SPF 20 foundation is chock full of skinvigoratins ingredients like vitamins, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, and lysine to help protect skin. Our complexion looks bright and clear- we're up for seconds.

The Heat Is On

2007-08-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

The temperature’s still sweltering here in Chicago, but if you are in parts of the country that are cooling off and miss the summer warmth, feel the heat with Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermafoliant, $42. This enzyme-powered body polish warms on contact while to smooths skin with anyhydous lactose granules and conditions with vitamins A, C and E. Also doubles as a results-driven mask to reduce the visibility of blackheads. I'm happy, I *hate* extractions.

Lychee Cocktail

2007-08-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

Skingenic's Regenerating Moisturizer, $110 derives its effectiveness from a combination of rare and exotic antioxidants. Idebenone, the most powerful anti-oxidant available today is renowned for combating overexposed and aging skin. When combined with other antioxidants, such as green tea, kelp and fresh lychee fruit, this crème provides rich moisture that combats dry skin.

Skingenic utilizes divine natural elements native to the Southeast Asian region, such as the lychee fruit. Found exclusively in Skingenic, the lychee fruit is rich in anti-oxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and other age-defying elements. Skingenic extracts the essential essences from the fresh fruit and infuses it into moisture rich products. The Lychee Complex is found solely in Skingenic products and aids in delivering essential nutrients to the skin which improves the health, vitality and overall appearance of the complexion. The result? Firm, healthy skin. A 2007 Healthy Beauty Awards Winner, Self Magazine and we can see why.

Ruby Tuesday

2007-08-21T06:31:00.000-07:00

German brand, Just Good For You, swirls extremely rare and one of the most valuable precious gemstones in nature, the ruby, into pure luxury for your body and soul. The new skin care line, Pearls-Rubies-Roses is formulated with actual freshwater pearls, rubies, jasper, jojoba, almond oil and the alluring fragrance of freshly cut wild roses and rosewood.

Since ancient times rubies have been known as one of the most beautiful and precious stones. To dream of rubies is to dream of success in business, money, and love. The sparkle and luminescence of rubies is said to be created by an inextinguishable fire in the heart of the stone.

We heart: Ruby Body Peeling, $89. Despite the ominous name, we couldn't wait to try this decadent body polish. Formulated to get your skin silky smooth and ready to bare all, this tantalizing scrub delivered a luxurious silky-smooth skin sensation. Keeping an open mind while focusing on sloughing away negative thought patterns and sadness, we emerged from the shower surprisingly light-hearted with a smile on our face. Coming soon to NYC's Henri Bendel.

Alchemically Correct

2007-08-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

Talulah, is what beauty ought to be: natural. Free of parabens, phthalates, synthetics and petroleum, the pure, simple and healthy skincare line is jam-packed with organic botanicals and pure plant extracts. Packaged in stark, apothecary style packaging, the line exudes a down-home, rustic appeal. With so many delectable products to poor over, it was hard to single out a front-runner. After careful selection, we chose two: Vanilla Bean Cleanser and Wild Lime Hair Treatment.

Vanilla Bean Cleanser, $20 is a succulent vanilla bean infusion of organic sugar swirled in a lathering cleanser that's gentle enough for everyday use. One whiff is pure vanilla and lavender bliss, instantly relaxing our whirling mind. Perfect for our combination skin, it's designed to cleanse, clarify and smooth uneven complexions, leaving our lackluster skin fresh and glowing after one use.

Wild Lime Hair Treatment is a lightweight, fast-absorbing treatment for the hair is made with essential oils of thyme, lavender, oatstraw and comfrey to stimulate natural oil production and hydrate fine, fragile strands. Infused with a refreshly tart scent (hence the name) in a rich, lime green base of exotic oils, antioxidants, and vitamins Wild Lime Hair Treatment, $18 is ideal for giving hair loads of shine and softness.

Sudzz FX

2007-08-18T08:04:00.001-07:00

I'm usually wash-and-wear, but an impromptu get together last night with a bunch of girlfriends had me reaching for the hairspray. Instead of my standard, Sebastian Shaper, I grabbed a bottle of the new LockUp, $17 by Suddz FX. This non-aerosol, tropical coconut scented hair spray is light on resins, but surprisingly strong on hold. This hairspray added soft definition, controlled my fly-aways and added subtle shine and control, all without the stiffness and stickiness commonly associated with other hair sprays. It's perfect for the big hair trend for fall; texture. According to Fashion Tribes, sleek, chic and low-maintenance are the buzz surrounding the season’s hottest locks. Just aim and spray.

Bling It On

2007-08-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

If you’re the kind of girl that likes to have something that no one else has, read on. Originally titled, Bling It On, our recent post morphed into All That Sparkles after glitter twinkled in abundance.

The original theme, *bling* was revived after coming across a bedazzling beauty which deserves to be flaunted in it own right. Covered in your choice of -nineteen- swarowski colored crystals from aquamarine to tanzinite (our fav: rose), the Whish Crystal Body Brush, Full $180 or Demi, $105 is handmade in England especially for a woman’s shaving needs. This sparkling gem transforms Whish, Shave Crave, $32 into a rich, lush cream while gently exfoliating your skin. (I've getting -lots- of raves for the pomegranate). The result is a miraculously close and perefect shave. Bling it on, this one-of-a-kind accessory is sure to brighten up any bathroom.

All That Sparkles

2007-08-16T06:49:00.000-07:00

Hard Candy, Bling Bling, $16 is unlike any other loose glitter product we’ve ever seen. Pretty pots of glitter with a plus: sizzling sparkle that comes with a base to keep it in place. Each of the five shades come in ingenius stacking pots containing one shade of glitter and two shades of base. Try nude, to create an invisible base or black, to create an unforgettable dazzling smoky eye.

The overflowing bling at Make Up For Ever is justification to let your creativity go w-i-l-d! Dazzle your face and body with sparkles, mulitcolored star confetti and our favorite, tiny jewels. Strauss, $25 are glue-on multi-colored crystals that add an abundance of drama and sparkle to any look.

Although the glue is not included (complete PIA), try Urban Apothecary's, Stuck Up Adhesive, $14. It's also great on sluggish straps and plunging necklines, Stuck Up works wonders with all that sparkles, glitters and glows. Or opt for their ranbowilicious line of glitter, Glitterazzi. Professional make-up artists use them and abuse them during fashion shows. For a sparkling veil over the face, body and hair, the $10 (and currently buy-one-get-one-free) shaker-top pots pack plenty of perfectly sized, fine sparklers in a mind boggling array of 24 marvelous, colorful shades. This is a great alternative to MAC's high-level Glitter, $16.50 which is currently only available in a single, solitary lonely shade of Reflects Blue.

MAC Smoke Signals

2007-08-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Seductive drama is in the air, especially with glamour riche having such a big influence on autumns trends. Smoky eyes are erotic, feminine and incredibly sexy envision sitting in a club, listening to great music, with smoke all around you and the intrigue and glamour that it evokes. No matter how intense the color, a smoky eye will always be soft and velvety. The key to the perfect smoky eye is to blend incredibly well. What you're aiming for is a controlled smudge. "There is definitely a smoky eye going on that is forever a classic, paired with a wonderful kind of neutral, fleshy mouth.”, says James Gager, Senior Vice President Creative Director at MAC. There is no smoke without fire.

Lipstick
Brew Creamy beige (lustre)
Barely Lit Pink sand with gold pearl (lustre)
Sparks Can Fly Creamy rose (frost)
Mellow Flame Warm coral pink with red pearl (lustre)
Burnin’ Rich wine (amplified)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Lipglass
Illicit Creamy neutral pink (cream)
Soft & Slow Soft rose with gold pearl (cream)
Bare Truth Warm caramel
Bizaarish Burgundy with pearl (frost)

Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Eye Shadow X4
Gentle Fume Eyes: 4
Rondelle Light silver with white pearl (matte)
Carbon (R) Intense black (matte)
Gentle Fume Cool midtone grey with silver sparkle (velvet)
Waft Deep blue grey (matte)

Smoking Eyes: 4
Next to Nothing Creamy white with pink pearl (frost)
Smoking Black with gold (velvet)
Showstopper Light muted grey (matte)
Satin Taupe Taupe brown with silvery bronze shimmer (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $36.00 U.S./$43.00 CDN

Kohl Power
An eye pencil clenched in black wood and specially formulated with carbon black (read the blackest black). The formula provides a full and intense opaque coverage combined with duo-chrome pearl to give a dramatic look. It can be easily blended or smudged to create a variety of powerful looks.
Orpheus Intense black with gold pearl (frost)
Raven Intense black with red pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $13.50 U.S./$16.00 CDN

Powder Blush
Ablaze Deep dirty coraly rose
Emote Grey brown (matte)
Suggested Retail Price: $17.50 U.S./$21.00 CDN

Pigment
Silver Fog Metallic midtone dirty silver
Smoke Signal Rusty deep maroon
Dark Soul Charcoal black smoked with gold
Suggested Retail Price: $19.50 U.S./$23.50 CDN

Nail Lacquer
Wildfire Black with red pearl (cream)
Nocturnelle Rich black (cream)
Suggested Retail Price: $10.00 U.S./$12.00 CDN

Smoke Signals is available beginning August 23, 2007 at all MAC locations and maccosmetics.com

MAC Blue Storm

2007-08-15T07:42:00.001-07:00

A sky full of mystery and intrigue, a turbulent condition is brewing on the horizion. MAC's latest release, Blue Storm, decended directly from the atmosphere. Breathtakingly brilliant shades of blue give way to enchanting shades of overcast grey which form a cloudly mist as the skies finally give way.

Lipglass
Lightning White silver sparkle (frost)
Lull Pink lilac (frost)
Atmospheric Rich grape with red and gold pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Eyeshadow
Blue Storm Cool royal blue with blue and silver pearl (frost)
Stormwatch Deep teal (matte)
Thunder Rich blue with purple pearl (frost)
Cumulus Creamy grey with silver pearl (frost)
Cloudburst Black with blue pearl (velvet)

Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S./$16.50 CDN

Kohl Power
Feline Rich black (frost)
Mystery Rich black with green and teal pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $13.50 U.S./$16.00 CDN

Zoom Lash
Zoomblack (R) Rich Black
Suggested Retail Price: $11.00 U.S./$13.00 CDN

Nail Lacquer
Whirlwind Metallic royal blue with green, blue and purple pearl (frost)
Rainy Day Metallic gunmetal grey with lilac pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $10.00 U.S./$12.00 CDN

Blue Storm is available beginning August 23, 2007 at all MAC locations and maccosmetics.com

Trend: Supernatural

2007-08-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Bare faced beauty is always a hit on the runways and this season is no different. Sephora reports, beauty has a supernatural flair this season. The look in fact, is so widespread, that companies such as Urban Apothecary incorporated the trend permanently into their array of mineral makeup products, aptly named Supernatural years ago. The result: a line-up of unshakable best sellers. The guise: neutral shades to accent facial structure, brows are penciled, cheeks are dramatized and lids are monotone.

Glow Getter

2007-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Working nine to five, but you want to look like you've actually been to the beach this summer. For an instant, but subtle 'tan', try a multi-hued powder.

Laura Gellar's Bronze-N-Brighten, $28. puts away the pale and bring out a beautiful bloom with our magically transforming powder. This oil-free silken powder is fortified with skin supporting antioxidants and light-reflecting, wrinkle-hiding, minerals so you look divine sans the damage. Burnish your whole face, or use just a little to look lit from within.

Drink Your Way to Perfect Skin

2007-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

In today's health and wellness conscious world, beverages and skin care are being increasingly linked. A new trend in upscale markets, Sephora, the perfumery chain, owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton will unveil a new, in-store concept featuring nutritional supplements and drinks. Sephora in France plans to offer up a consulting nutritionist who will create beauty regimens combining nutritional supplements and drinks as well as skin care for a total health program. If it works, the good-for-you concept could roll into America, too. The Sephora department consists of a healthy beauty bar stocking 10 brands of nutritional supplements and drinks. The lineup includes Fushi, Dr. Perricone and Dr. Murad, plus the house brand called 24H Slimming Program.

Leading the pack is a line of 'drink your way to perfect skin' beverages from Borba. At the core of the eponymous line are a half-dozen zero-calorie waters, rendered murky with pulverized vitamins, extracts and other ingredients designed to improve your complexion. When Borba launched last spring, Fred Segal Beauty sold more than 3,000 bottles in two weeks. Sephora stores often run out of the sweets, Jelli and Gummi Boosters. Expensive? 14 8-ounce bottles cost $35; a bag of 275 jellybeans is $25. Yes, but Borba is convinced that their clientel doesn't have a problem spending on new technologies and premium products, as long they see that it's effective.

They might be onto something... Not far behind, Coca-Cola and L'Oreal are working on a beauty elixir called Lumae to improve the skin. Whole Foods has been merchandising beauty and supplements side by side for many years. Another new concept is Danone's Essensis, vitamin-rich yogurt positioned as an oral beauty supplement. Mmm, now if only I could get my Botox in my morning latte. Starbucks are you listening? Make mine a Grande, proto!

Fall Makeup Trends

2007-08-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Crowns abound, while highly defined and lined eyes clearly are center stage as we head into fall.

Christian Dior beauties, Flavia De Oliveira and Anna Chyzh winked the catwalk with retro lined lids, dramatically contrasting pale skin with matte, metallic luminoisty.

The graceful, Valerya Melnik sasayed in Elie Saab with ultra matte nude lips and skin paired with glam kohl-colored liner and unmbigious grey shadow.

Kinga Rajzak for Christian Dior -captured the season's biggest trends in eyes of etherieal blue, a violet flush and healthy, stained lips. Style mavens take note, we are going to be seeing lots of violet blush.

I'm forecasting vast violet flush for Fall. When paired with rose stained lips and smokey eyes, this is a fresh take on color that everyone can enjoy. Dont agree with me? Annieytown of Blogdorf Goodman, presented the beauty trends from Christian Dior's Fall 2007 Couture Collection and concurs. Keep an eye on how these makeup trends continue to translate from runway to reality.

Lining your eyes doesn't have to be a 'cat'astrophea. e-How's fashion and style expert, Audie Metcalf has a step by step on how to create a flawless Cat-Eye.

Daily Indulgence Pumpkin Conditioner

2007-08-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Beauty products are increasingly moving away from artificial ingredients and turning to nature. Sexy Hair Concepts has released the latest addition to their Healthy Sexy Hair with a fresh harvest from the pumpkin patch. Daily Indulgence Pumpkin Conditioner, $16 features a natural enzymatic action that renews, rehydrates; and adds shine to all hair types, including natural to chemically treated hair. The conditioner is packed with pumpkin enzymes and moisturizing fatty acids packed with panthenol to combat oxidative and free-radical damage. Plus vitamins A, C and E to promote healing, stimulate circulation and provide nourishment to the hair while protecting tresses from environmental stressors.

If you can't get enough of the delicious scent, try Sexy Hair Bath and Body. Not only is the line fragranced with the scrumptious smell of spicy pumpkin, it's also packed with pumpkin nutrients that provide moisture balance, replenishment and protection. Pumpkin is also a naturally rich source of antioxidants that help decrease oxidation and fight free radical stress. It also includes natural UV protectors and Vitamins A, C and E.

Treat yourself to a feast of the senses, while giving your body a healthy treat, with Sexy Hair Bath and Body!

Alison Raffaele

2007-08-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

Alison Raffaele products are enriched with vitamins A, C, and E, plus green tea to help protect and regenerate the skin; aloe, to calm and soothe; and seaweed extract, to firm the skin. Created by founder and director, Alison Raffaele, who was Bobbi Brown's first National Makeup Artist and International Trainer, Raffaele created her own cosmetics line, Skin in 2000, and the collection has blossomed.

We Love: The Tinted Moisturizer, $35, a protective, firming, oil-free moisturizer, with mineral based SPF 15. Available in five yellow-based shades, including Natural, which is colorless on all skin tones, and may be used alone or under makeup; Light, for fair complexions; Light Medium, for fair to medium complexions; Medium, for medium to medium golden complexions; and Dark, for deep golden to deep golden brown complexions.

The products, which contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are said to provide a natural, physical barrier against UVA/UVB rays; with an SPF 15. The mineral-based sunscreen system is contained in a tinted moisturizer that is not tacky, doesn;t smell, and, according to the company, unlike some titanium and zinc-based sunscreens, does not turn white or ashy on even the deepest skin tones.

I NUOVI Launch

2007-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I NUOVI, Asia's favorite fashionable makeup line favored by industry professionals and stars such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Cherlize Theron and Renee Zellweger, has officially entered the North American Market.

The product line contains an plethora of cosmetics including the best selling Studiolash, an advanced 3D polymer mascara, $21 and Colours, $16 a rainbow of pigments that serve as both shadows and blushers. Each product is fragrance-free, contains no animal derivatives and never gets tested on animals.

Shopping fever is definitely in the air! So join in the fun and help I NUOVI celebrate their launch - and indulge in some much-needed shopping therapy. Only for a limited period, from today to the end of August, I NUOVI is offering Beauty Buffet Subscribers a luxurious 4-pc Gift Set which includes a limited edition Boogie Bag in pink and 3 sizzling Nailglass shades in Goldfinger, Walnut and Topaz with any $100 purchase at http://www.inuovi.com/.

Shimmering Defense

2007-08-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Answer a quick questionnaire and the Redken Hair Recommender will help you get luscious locks. Their newest product, UV Rescue, Shimmering Defense, $9 is perfect for summer. The shiny, mica-infused shield helps protect hair from color degradation and the drying effects of sun, sea and pool. Now you can defend and replenish sun-stressed hair with glamour, radiant shine. Simply apply to damp or dry hair and leave-in. Hair is renewed, re-energized and shimmers with dimensional shine.

MAC in 3D

2007-08-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Introducing the new MAC in 3D collection. It's already online and scheduled to hit MAC counters today. Most stores have the entire range displayed already and some (like mine) are even sold out of a few shades (Wondershine, Synched Up, Optical, Apex, Energy)- bummer!

Lip gloss fans everywhere will enter a new dimension in lip gloss. The new smoothing cellophane 3D Glass, $14 lipgloss has immediate super shiny, long lasting finish. The gloss has a comfortable lightweight balmy feel, a sort of gel infused with aloe and vitamins A,C & E which helps soothe and moisturize lips. A unique combination of Xirona pearls and extreme glass shine gives lips a three dimensional look. The images do not capture how glossy and iridescent these glosses are- brilliant!

Racy: Sheer cherry red with pink and red pearl
IN 3D: Sheer peachy pink with blue pearl
Optical: Warm caramel brown with pink pearl
Synched Up: Creamy tan with pink and white pearl
Energy: Sheer baby pink with white and pink pearl
Algorithm: Sheer dusty rose with light pink pearl
Touchpoint: Sheer blue mid-tone pink with blue pearl
Lightswitch: Sheer metallic pink with white pearl
Backlit: Soft white gold with yellow and white pearl
Wondershine: Warm tangerine with gold and red pearl
Apex: Sheer orange with green pearl
Boundless: Intense pinky red with soft blue pearl

Lipglass Pencil, $13.50 is a sheer lip pencil specially formulated to be used with M·A·C lipgloss and lipstick for a superior glossy effect to the lips. This innovative texture was developed using specially formulated filming polymers for adherence, superior wearability and luminosity. I have to admit, this is one of the first lip pencils that did not fizzle away after an hour. The sheer formula does not interfere with the look, texture or application of lipgloss, it just enhances the look. If you are looking for a naturally defined lip, this pencil offers luminous transparency and a hint of pigment for a super glossy, non-feathering effect in a myrid of shades.

Red Stroke: Sheer cherry red
Pink Edge: Sheer soft mid-tone pink with white pearl
Fuchsia Lining: Sheer pink berry
Brickmate: Rich bronze brown with gold pearl
Part Nude: Sheer dirty plum-brown
Neutralzone: Warm caramel with gold pearl
Coral Craze: Sheer mid-tone orange
Plum Mate: Sheer plum
Rosebound: Sheer soft neutral pink with gold pearl

Skin Food

2007-08-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you need to cool off without taking it all off. Cooling Pearl Spray from Skin Food, a cosmetics brand that uses food like black sesame, rice and cucmber to create delicious and effective recipes for your face and body

Cooling Pearl Spray, $12 is a unique, sheer coverage body spray that imparts a soothing, cooling sensation on contact (thanks to an infusion of cucumber and aloe extracts), coupled with a sexy sheen. The molten metal-like metallic shades will rock your world! Metallic pigments in silver or golod spray on easily for long-wearing, sexy, sheer color that steals the spotlight.

Skin Tight

2007-07-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Quickly alleviate ingrown lumps and bumps with Flawless Bump Fighter, $22.50 by Whish. The seriously smoothing solution (read no sting) of hydroxy acids and antioxidant actives, solves any cosmetic problem related to hair removal. Men can use it on their face, neck and back of the head while women find it useful on legs, bikini line, underarms and anywhere else hair removal causes those ugly bumps and ingrown hairs. Now you can hit the beach at your bare-able best.

Ready, Wet, Go!

2007-07-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

WET, Water Embodied Therapy spa-quality products will cleanse, soften, replenish and moisturize your skin. The collection combines soothing nutrients like vitamin E, aloe vera and mood-shifting lavender oil, which help de-stress your body and mind.

Caffeine Fix

2007-07-20T04:04:00.000-07:00

If you are in need of a caffeine pick-me-up, skip the coffee shop and give your body a rush with Body Coffee. Serving up decadently scented, skin-smoothing products Stephka Profitt, the brains behind the brand, uses actual coffee in every one of her creations; from the energizing Body Oil, $22 to the hydrating Body Balm, $12. My personal favorite is the invigorating Body Polish, $35, in which coffee granules are blended with peppermint, spearmint, rosemary and orange oils into a delicious body scrub. Especially good as a wake-up call for drowsy mornings, this decadent blend provides an invigorating massage while you breathe in the intoxicating scent.

Some experts contend that the coffee bean has a litany of benefits – including improved circulation and cell turnover. Did you realize coffee is also known as a free radical scavenger, a gentle exfolliant, an effective astringent and a UVA/UVB protector as well as a great cleanser? Me either! I can tell you, your skin will glow with renewed radiance. Forget about the tall, double shot, no-foam lattes and get your caffeine fix with Body Coffee.

Get Cheeky

2007-07-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

If matte powder blushes feel heavy or look too made-up for summertime, opt for a gel or creme blush. The deeper the pigment, the less you'll have to use. Just blend a tiny bit on the apples of your cheeks with fingertips.

My Favorites:
Stila, Color Push Ups, $24. The oil-free, sheer gel formula is great for summer and gives cheeks a barely-there flush.

100% Pure, Fruit Pigment Lip & Cheek Stain, $15. These natural, pigment rich color stains perform double duty as a lip stain and cheek blush. Shades are easy to blend and leave a beautiful, dewy sheen.

Nature Goes Hi-Tech

2007-07-18T12:55:00.000-07:00

Nature goes hi-tech! Our favorite, high power, luxury green products of the future are all chockfull of organic active ingredients and free of petrochemicals. These lines take a preventative approach rather than a "turn back the clock" approach. The easy-to-use products work synergistically, to give your skin everything it needs, and absolutely nothing it doesn't. Simply proving you don't need a fancy box to be naturally beautiful.

Toting the tag, clean, bio active skincare, Ren delivers good-for-you ingredients that get results. Guerande Salt Exfoliating Body Balm, $37 is a gently exfoliating body balm which removes dead cells and will leave your skin moisturized, renewed and glowing. It contains mineral rich Guerande Sea Salt and a moisturising and toning blend of Olive, Basil and Peppermint Oils.

Founded in 1851 in New York City, Kiehl's remains true to its founder's philosophy, blending the best of botanicals and technology for a unique, remarkably effective line. Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, $24.00 is a creamy blend of vitamin A, fatty acids and avocado oil that gently moisturizes the delicate eye area. The unique, concentrated texture won't migrate into your eyes either.

Leaf & Rusher skincare products combine botanical and marine extracts with the newest and most scientifically advanced pharmaceuticals from laboratories across the globe to deliver maximum results. Active Serum, $115 is Leaf & Rusher's signature product specially formulated to dramatically improve the skin's tone, texture and firmness. A light, velvety serum, it contains stable of Vitamin A (a retinol) and Vitamin C, both of which become active when they contact the moisture and enzymes in the skin to visibly reduce lines and discoloration, encouraging firmer skin.

Discover Spa Cinq Mondes, a selection of the best aromatherapy, beauty, and massage treatments inspired by five great ancestral cultures. Inspried by a beauty ritual from Bali, Indonesia, Elixir Precieux Eclat, $65 is radiance for the skin. A powerful concentrate of 100% vegetable oils, rich in essential fatty acids, Omega 3 and Omega 6. This unique association of candlenut oil and papaya oil is used for beautiful skin.

Malin + Goetz, the New York apothecary and lab simplifies skin and hair care for even the most sensitive skin. Mojito Soap Set, $30 like all of their products, this pairing is a symbolic balance between natural and technological ingredients. The iconic graphic packaging makes everything a wonderful gift.

The experience of pregnancy is like no other. Basq, set out to create effective and beautiful skin care that addresses the unique skin care needs during pregnancy. Hallaleyah! Ease the extra fatigue that pregnancy brings with Soothing Foot Relief, $19.50. This cooling, revitalizing lotion—the perfect relief for tired, aching feet. A revitalizing blend of green tea, eucalyptus, cucumber, aloe vera, and menthol helps alleviate swelling and aching. The refreshing lavender scent offers up a slight tingling that imparts a cooling sensation.

These candles have three self trimming wicks and offer 60 hours of delicious burning time. Think.......what can you do in 60 hours? Select the menu, uncork a bottle, cook a romantic dinner, bathe, change and look devine every night for a month and this candle will still be burning up way more than the room. Beautifully outrageous is the only way to describe all these scents. Must inhale to be believe. Burn's Fresh Green Apple Candle, $35 is reminiscent of reading a very long book in a swaying hammock. A relaxing blend of Verbena Leaf, Pippin Apple, Starfruit, Fuji Apple, & Apple Blossom.

DuWop Summer Collection

2007-07-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

DuWop’s Summer 2007 Beauty Collection, Feed Your Face, offers an enticing menu of fresh, uplifting color and texture for the eyes, cheeks, lips, and face. The delectable assortment features products packed with skin enhancing ingredients that nourish as they beautify.

Inspired by the balance of well-being and beauty, the Feed Your Face Collection includes formulas of the highest quality and ingredients with wholesome properties.

Duets
The fresh, color-coordinated shadows can be used wet or dry. The soothing, harmonious shades were inspired by the relaxing properties of tea. While I'd love to brighten my eyes up a bit with the likes of the preppy spring pink and baby leaf green Delilah, my daily dose of Macchiato creates the perfect smoky eye that's sweet enough for the daytime and rich enough for night. $22.

Realipsticks
Yet another take on the classic lipstick. Named after four Hollywood beauties, these full coverage hues are packed with the most modern ingredients and natural sun protection. Simply a lipstick with a new name. $18.

Blushbooster
A blush that boosts the color of your cheeks while nourishing the skin with antioxidants. Four powder shades that can be worn alone or layered. $22.

Smoothset
Launching with only three shades, Smoothset is a luxurious powder perfectly paired with a soothing, pore minimizing face balm. One handy compact minimizes pores, smoothes the complexion and eliminates shine and discoloration. What more could a girl want? $32.

Elixrstix
My favorite of the bunch, I love the cheerful, yet not too spunky shades. While a tad bit expensive for my taste, the gloss provides gorgeous, sheer color while stimulating the senses with delicious tonics for healthy, beautiful lips. El.ix.ir's are delicious fruit and herb beverages formulated according to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (notion of wellness and preventative care). Mmmm, it can't hurt to try , right?

It seems Feed Your Face has everything you need to capture gorgeous radiance using modern products with a wholesome twist.

Quick Tan Towelettes

2007-07-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Like a mini-vacation all in a little packet. Pretend you're on a tropical island, wipe on the sun with your neatly packaged towelette and come out with a natural bronzed body. They say doing it in the buff is the best way! Get your glow on, with just one towelette, your entire body can look flawlessly tanned without the harrmful effects from the sun. And yes, some bodies (like mine post-pregnancy) take ahem, two towelettes.

TanTowel Plus Self Tanning Towelette, $24.00 10 pack. These wipes have all of the same benefits as the original, TanTowel and contain these added ingredients: DHA- a self-tanning agent, Transcutol CG, a solvant for DHA penetration and Erythrulose, a color accelerator for a faster, deeper and darker natural look.

Aloha! Forget the messy self tanning creams and sprays! With one swipe of the Comodynes, Self Tanning towelettes, $15 you will see a gradual deepening in approximately two hours. Larger and thicker than most, these remind me of diaper wipes.

Already a well known beauty craze throughout Europe, Bronze-Age the Self Tanning Towels, $15 are luxuriously convenient sunless tanning towelettes. Although I have not tried these myself, many readers swear by the perfect all natural looking, sun-kissed tan in minutes. No mess guaranteed, simply wipe dress and go! Superior sunless tanning has never been easier.

One of the golden rules of self-tanning is to exfoliate thoroughly to remove dead skin cells before application. Failure to do so could result in an uneven tan that fades fast. Whoops, you goofed! If you've been there, done that, I highly recommend Modelco's Tan Remover, $14.00. This concentrated exfoliating formula consists of fine micro-salt particles that dissolve the self-tan when massaged in a circular motion into the skin. A body scrub with benefits, Tan Remover contains the nourishing extracts of vitamin e that moisturises the hands and body, leaving your skin silky smooth and hydrated. And of course, it is colored in sexy ModelCo pink!

In Memoriam Meri Kay Carpenter

2007-07-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

I wanted to dedicate my post today to my wonderful mother-in-law, Meri Kay Carpenter. Sadly, she passed away on Tuesday, July 10, 2007. As you may (or may not) know from my post on July 2 regarding Couture for Cancer, Meri was recently diagnosed with a progressive from of esophageal cancer. She passed away from a complication of this disease. She was an amazing woman who will be forever missed, but will always remain in my heart. Love you, Meri! I want to thank everyone for all of your kind words and prayers. I'll leave you guys with a pictures of her with grandchildren, Brooklyn and Haileigh (my daughters) who were the light of her life,; and one of her favorite sayings: "We are all one winged angels, and it is only together we can fly.”

Grandma Meri & Haileigh, July 8, 2007

Grandma & Brooklyn, May 19, 2007

MAC: Flashtronic

2007-07-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

One last MAC post for awhile, I promise! Launching this fall, MAC melds minerals with illuminating, soft yet electric shades to fashion Flashtronic.

Slow-baked to perfection, the six shimmering, multi-hued, limited edition eye shadows and light-infused SkinFinish are perfect accents for Fall’s warm, natural palette. Dash. Flash. Flare. Polish your pucker with four, new impeccable shades of high-reflective Lipglass. The look: reflective shimmer.

Available September 27, 2007 at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.387.6707 and http://www.maccosmetics.com/

Lipglass, $14.00

Perfectly Pink Creamy mid-tone pink (cream)
Flashtronic Caramel bronze with subtle gold pearl (cream)
Young Spark Neutral pink with subtle gold pearl (cream)
Electro-Lush Creamy blue pink (cream)

Mineralize Eye Shadow, $14.00

By Jupiter Light taupe with beige and deep brown veining (frost)
Tectonic Yellow gold with lime green, warm brown and black veining (frost)
Ether Deep aqua with silver, black and gold veining (frost)
Mercurial Yellow gold with lilac and chestnut veining (frost)
Lovestone Raspberry with wine and copper veining (frost)
Quarry Sky blue with olive, coral and beige veining (frost)

Mineralize Skinfinish, $24.50

Northern Light Mid-tone pink with rust and grey brown veining
Gold Spill Pink peach with warm brown and cream pearl
Global Glow Mid-tone brown with gold pearl

Tunu Elastik Hairspray

2007-07-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

The rare, protein-rich, Tunu rubber extract in Ojon Tunu Elastik Felible Finishing Hairspray adds luscious body, moveable bounce and touable hold to lifeless hair. Tunu's flexible isoprene polymer chains enhance elasticity. It's exclusive to QVC and is apparently sold out.

However, it is available in the Ojon 5-pc. Restore, Hydrate & Hold Hair Ritual Kit, $120 on sale for $60. This kit contains rare, wildcrafted natural ingredients from the remote tropical rain forests of Central America and the Amazon that have been hidden for centuries. All products are enriched with 100% pure Ojon oil. Otherwise, check out eBay for individual 9oz bottles.

MAC: Novel Twist + Rush Metal

2007-07-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

Two new collections transition M•A•C fans into summers end. The lustred shades, finished in fashionable matte shine style, glow early Fall on eyes, cheeks, and lips. Novel Twist and Rush Metal are scheduled to hit the counters, July 19 and July 20, 2007 respectively.

Novel Twist; swirls, bends, loops and in the spirit and design of menswear stripped fabric. A stark contrast from the linear dynamic classics, this stylishly coordinated line flaunts the decorative skills of haute couture. Popping up on supermodel notables, from Linda, Naomi, and Amber to Gisele, the colors are ravishing in a wayward twist of dimensional, hand-embroidered threads.

The lip compacts, $22.50 sport a rich trio of colors in shades of pink or plum, while the coordinatiing compacts for the eyes highlight five shades in a choice of warm and cool. The Novel Twist brush set includes five popular makeup brushes and is a must-have for a mere $48.00. Pack everything into the chic, textured 3x3x3 cubes for understated style. This limited edition collection sends the imagination for a loop with luxurious, extravagantly realized palettes.

Novel Twist Lipglass, $14.00

Springly Freshwater oyster pink (frost)
Gadabout Mid-tone yellow pink with white pearl (frost)
Spree Pink Champagned Taupe (cream)
Wander Sheer Chocolate Brown (cream)

Novel Twist Paint Pots, $14.00
This innovative formula feels like a cream shadow and lasts for hours with no creasing, caking, or transfer. Its skin-like adhesion allows formula to build seamless coverage without heaviness or caking. A new combination of waxes allows superior blendability and spreadability. This new formula is easy to apply, blend and mix with M•A•C shadows and liners. Superior color vibrancy & intensity. I can't wait to try these and am hoping they won't dry out too quickly...

Stray Grey Grey mauve (cream)
Pinterly Nude beige (cream)
Delft Deep teal with gold pearl (frost)
Stringalong Warm mid-tone brown (cream)
Artifact Dark burgundy with red pearl (frost)
Indianwood Metallic antique bronze (frost)

Novel Twist Powder Blush, $17.50

Whim Bluish soiree pink (satin)
Out of Bounds Neutral mid-tone brown (satin)

Novel Twist Beauty Powder, $22.00

Softdew Neutral brown rose
Sun Twist Warm peach

The alchemy of gold is transformed and then manipulated by M·A·C artistry into the next wave of metallic glam. Eight limited edition pigments and four lipsticks radiate the power, glory and versatility of this precious metal. Each shade is expertly finished to reflect the dynamic, gold tinged trace-color. A phenomenal sight to behold, feel the rush with Rush Metal.

Rush Metal Lipstick, $14.00

Thrills Rosy copper with gold pearl (frost)
Frenzy Soft muted pinky-peach beige with golden shimmer (frost)
Soft Lust Tan with white pearl (lustre)
Fast Lane Mauve with silver pearl (lustre)

Rush Metal Pigment, $19.50

Rushmetal Rich copper sparkle
Revved-up Icy rose with reflects
Gold Mode Tan gold
Mauvement Cool taupe with gold pearl
Off The Radar Warm orange with gold sparkle
Copperized Olive green with gold pearl
Quick frost Creamy white with soft green pearl
Cocomotion Dirty gold with olive undertone and gold sparkle (my personal fav)

Police Rock Wrigley

2007-07-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late post today! My dH surprised me with tickets (15th row, center none-the-less) to the The Police concert last night. Billed as one of the biggest acts to hit the summer tour circuit, the newly reunited Police marked the second set of their two sold-out concerts at Wrigley Field on a beautifully warm Friday night in Chicago.

Looking down from the VIP bleaches behind the stage, lead singer Sting, looking remarkably fit at age 55. The rock star himself smiling from below, blew us a kiss before heading on stage to rock Wrigley. Sting still possess a vigorously strong voice that meshes well with Stewart Copeland's percussions and Andy Summers' rhythmic beats over the 20-song show featuring almost all their classic hits, including my top three: "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic," a reggae-infused "Don't Stand So Close To Me" and a stretched-out jam version of "Roxanne." Police fans undoubtedly were pleased by a reunion some 23 years in the making. Thanks for a great night dH, just like old times! One that I'm not sure you, me and all three members of the band will ever again get to experience.

Stay tuned for new MAC launches posting this weekend...

Beauty 911

2007-07-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

My color treated hair is becoming brittle. What can you recommend to combat this?

PureOlogy NanoWorks Restorative Hair Treatment, $50 fortfies color-treated hair from the inside out. Complete with chamomile, soy proteins and avocado lipds, this deep treatment strengthens hair and maintains vibrant color. Moisturizing avocado butter and pistaschio butter combined with Nano Technology offers ultimate penetration of active ingredients for 3X strengthening performance. Anti-Aging Complex restores hair to its youthful condition. AntiFadeComplex provides the ultimate in color protection.

Yu-Be

2007-07-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream, Japan's best selling medicated, vitamin-enriched skin cream for generations, is nearing its 50th birthday, and is no longer a Japanese "secret." The brand is selling out in new retail locations as consumers around the world discover why Yu-Be has been trusted by generations of Japanese families.

Indie etailer, Beautyofasite began selling Yu-Be exclusively in the US in 2004, where it has continued to generate significant sales. Yu-Be's heritage, as well as its unique and effective formula, has also made it a hit down-under. Australia's chic Mecca Cosmetica just started stocking Yu-Be. Their customers have embraced the simple concept of one skincare product, for the whole body and the entire family. Perhaps the demand for high-quality Japanese products is greatest in France, which sets the trends for Europe and internationally.

According to Matthew Graham, CMO, Yu-Be. "The initial success that Yu-Be is experiencing internationally confirms that our expansion strategy is well founded. Generations of Japanese families have used it to moisturize, heal and treat all their skin needs. Early indicators suggest that the rest of the world is eager to take advantage of what used to be Japan's soft skin secret."

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream, $15, Japan's soft skin secret, is the number one selling, medicated, vitamin-enriched skin cream in Japan. If you get a chance, try it. The slightly medicinal scent may throw you for a loop at first, but it dissipates quickly. The ointment turned cream quickly seeps into skin, leaving nothing but soft, moisturized skin. It's perfect for summer feet since Yu-Be really soothes and heals severely dry, cracked heels.

I'll Try Anything Once

2007-07-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

Double post today. I couldn't sleep last night after chatting with my friend Shannon who blogs for A Girl's Gotta Spa -highly recommended. Shannon has a distinguished, down-to-earth writing style and as a mom of four boys, newborn included, I'm in awe of her multi-tasking abilities.

After chatting about how many samples we receive, try once and store away (we couldn’t actually toss anything), what’s a girl to do? Yes, our friends and family revel in all the freebies, but one can only use so much. Ladies, what can we do with the samples? We’ve slathered the foundation, smeared the gloss and rubbed the bronzer, once, maybe a few times at best. Ideas anyone?

Oh, and BTW, if you missed the MAC chat with Eve and her personal makeup artist, JJ, you can check out the transcript here.

Couture for Cancer

2007-07-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

A cause that's close to my heart, Couture for Cancer, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that donates custom made, non-surgical hair replacement systems completely free of charge, to any person suffering hair loss due to cancer and chemotherapy treatments.

Their mission is to assist cancer patients during this difficult time in their life by boosting their self-confidence and personal outlook after the devastating loss of their hair. Through both private and public donations, combined with the proceeds from the sale of their clothing line and haute pink Iron Out Cancer tourmaline, ceramic-ionic flat iron that sells for $160, they are having an enormous, direct impact on people living with cancer, nationwide.

Salon Owner & Visionary, Mario Mazza is the brains and braun behind Couture for Cancer. His mission: change the outlooks of those who suffer from hair loss due to chemotherapy. Mario has been a colorist for celebrities and high-powered professionals for the past five years at his salon, MazzaRock, in Jupiter, Florida. His intense passion and creativity inspired him to create Couture for Cancer. You rock, Mario!

Stay turned, my mother-in-law, Meri a breast cancer survivor was recently diagnossed with stage 4 esophageal cancer. She just submitted an application, so hopefully we'll be off to visit Mario soon. Check back for before and after shots.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit http://www.coutureforcancer.org/ .