My oh my! Shear Genius was a disaster all the way around this week. It was a week when we learned that "America loves a shapely woman" (according to Charlie) and then heard a confusing analogy about a midget wearing flats from Kim Vo. I've done some thinking about it and Kim Vo reminds me of Michael York in Logan's Run (this revelation is especially appropriate since Farrah Faucet and her hair were featured in both Logan's Run and this week's Shear Genius challenge).
But I digress. On to the recap!
SHORT CUT CHALLENGE
It was the rainbow of fruit flavors short cut challenge. The stylists had to add bold, vibrant colors to their clients' hair. People ended up with super red hair, streaks of yellow, and all sorts of craziness. This challenge reminded me of my high school/college days. I have always been very blonde, and for a time there I was dying my goldilocks all sorts of wacky colors. Manic Panic was my best friend. I once put a shock of pink through the front of my hair, hoping it would wash out after a week. Six months later, I still had that ultra-pink streak. It was annoying.
The stylists had a generous four hours to do their cut and color. The winner would have immunity in the coming elimination challenge and would play a "special role" in that challenge. There was some minor drama and plenty of cattiness. Nekisa found new ways to blame the world for her failures, and Paulo committed the cardinal sin of ignoring the sage advice of Master Vo.
Charlie won with this equestrian-inspired look:
Though Nekisa came in almost last, Paulo took the loser seat with this non-blue do:
ELIMINATION CHALLENGE
After a hyped up bitch session between Charlie and Nekisa back at home, the stylists returned to the salon for the Charlie's Angels Challenge. As the short cut winner, Charlie would not be competing in this round. Instead he paired up the remaining six stylists who had to give three women updated looks inspired by the three original Charlie's Angels characters. He also wandered around, supposedly offering assistants to all three teams.
Here's the problem with this challenge: no one remembers Charlie's Angels that well. It ran from 1976 to 1981. I am 32 years old and have a vague memory of the show. I did, however, have a favorite angel: Chris, played by Cheryl Ladd. So...it's my theory that the stylists are too young to really remember the show, and if they were old enough to remember Charlie's Angels, they were probably so coked-out that that entire time period is just a giant blur of big hair and polyester. Need proof of my claim? Just watch Kate Jackson's hand at judging this week. When asked what she thought of the styles, she said she had no thoughts in her head. Yikes.
For whatever reason, the elimination challenge was a disaster. Everyone's look sucked. Everyone went in the same, tired direction. The judges complained about wanting a more modern, updated look, saying that they see Jacquelyn Smith's hair every day...and her hair is what they were going for. Um....ok. What kind of challenge was this exactly?
After a severe tongue lashing from the judges, the contestants were told that they all sucked so badly that no one would be the night's winner. The bottom two came down to Glenn and (surprise, surprise) Nekisa. Nekisa was, inexplicably, spared from elimination yet again. The look of shock and disgust on the other contestants' faces was priceless. They all seemed disgusted and dismayed that Glenn was packing her scissors and going home. I think Charlie's earlier statement needs revision: the Shear Genius judges love a shapely woman. Any American watching the show probably rolled their eyes and cursed their TVs in disbelief.
Anyway....it was a weird night in Shear Genius land. And I've decided: I do like Paulo (or is it Paolo? I see it spelled differently all over the place!). However, now that I said that, I fully expect Paulo to be sent home next week. Just watch: Nekisa will end up winning this whole damn thing. Ugh.
On an unrelated note, don't forget to enter my Lush giveaway! Click here for the details.
Shear Genius Recap: Fallen Angels
Adventures of a Makeup Junkie: Do Makeup and Outdoor Activities Mix?
I'm flying to BC next Tuesday (my first trip on a plane since before I was prego!) and I'm VERY excited! We'll be visiting my mother-in-law in what's referred to as the beautiful "Sunshine Coast". There will be lots to do including kayaking, canoing, hiking, and mountain biking. For the most part, I'd probably say I'm 85 % city girl and 15 %
outdoor-camping-roughing-it kind of girl. I much rather prefer stilettos over hiking boots and consider going without mascara as "roughing it". Sounds high maintenance, but I'm really not - I swear! I just like to look put-together in every situation. And although canoing is not my first choice of fun, I'm very open to new experiences.
As a child, my family wasn't really the camping type. The last time I did anything camping related, I was in grade school. Don't get me wrong - we won't be sleeping in tents or anything but in a beautifully renovated home just off the water. But cute flats or wedge sandals just won't cut it. Since I'm fairly new to the whole kayaking-hiking-canoing thing, I'm a little unsure if wearing makeup is a faux pas. This is my question to you - would you wear makeup while doing outdoor activities?
Here are the products I'm thinking about rockin' while canoing along the coast:
CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Blasting Water-proof Mascara in Very Black: After rave reviews of the original formula, I was very bummed that my lashes went limp instead of lush and full. But I decided to give the water-proof version a try on recommendation of Arianne (thanks girl!). Well, I think my lashes have found a new love! I was fully committed to L'Oreal's Voluminous Waterproof mascara but I have moved on. I LOVE the results my lashes get - voluminous, super-long, lush non-smearing lashes! Mascara always manages to make you look polished without over-doing it with lots of shadow.
Tarte Cheek Stain in Tipsy and Flush: I know I'll probably get a natural flush from all the physical activity but a little help doesn't hurt right? I love Tarte's cheek stains because they give you a natural flush and stay put. Tipsy is a nice sheer coral-peach and Flush is a sheer berry. I like to have choices so I'll bring both. :)
Juice Beauty Lip Trio: SPF 15 Tinted Lip Moisturizers: I think when you're working out it's important to not look done up. These tinted lip balms are the perfect choice especially for outdoor activities. These lippies give you sun protection, moisture, and a natural tint of colour that goes on like a lip stain. My favourite is Delightful, a deep berry shade that makes your lips looks like you've been getting some serious snogging action.
So, would it be too much to also add a bit of YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch under the eyes, Cargo's blu_ray High Definition Mattifier for an even complexion without adding foundation and to double as a mattifier, and my Benefit Hoola Bronzer for a matte sun-kissed glow? I would love to hear what you think and if there's anything else you'd recommend please let me know!
Don't Forget to Enter!
In honor of my 2nd blog anniversary and to ring in year 3, I'm having a little giveaway!
Click here to enter for your chance to win a Wild Child gift set from Lush. This yummy set contains Chocolate Whipstick lip balm, Happy Hippy shower gel, Rock Star soap and a Flosty Gritter bubble bar. Fun stuff!
Good luck!
Beauty Product of the Week: Tassi
What is it? The Tassi "is a unique solution for keeping your hair out of your face. Use while washing your face, doing facials, or applying makeup. Easy to use! Unlike a head band or clips, Tassi gently hold your hair without flattening or denting it." Available in 12 colors for $14.99. Check out the website for ordering information and retail locations.
What did you think? I have bangs. Bangs are a royal pain when I need to put on makeup or wash my face. The rest of my hair goes easily into a ponytail, but my bangs need to be clipped down or dealt with in some fashion to get them out of my way. It's annoying.
The Tassi looks like a messed up pair of terrycloth underwear. But don't let that fool you! It actually goes on your head. You put your head through the middle of the Tassi, letting it rest on your neck. Then you pull the Tassi over your face, skinny side up...wide side in the back. After that, you just tuck your hair into the back of the Tassi and viola! Ready to go!
The Tassi held my hair up off the back of my neck while keeping my bangs out of my face and out of the way. It did just what it said it would. And when I was done with my face washing, I just pulled the Tassi off, shook out my hair, and was able to style my locks quickly. Sometimes, using clips and elastics would leave funny bumps or ridges in my hair...not so with the Tassi!
The final verdict? This is a keeper! What an easy way to keep the hair out of your face without destroying your 'do. This would be a great stocking stuffer for Christmas, or just a great anytime gift for your favorite girly-girl. One final thought: because this is terrycloth, you can just toss it in the washing machine if it gets dirty. It can't get any easier!
Beauty Review: Pop Beauty Lip Lust
Pop Beauty, known for its wild and fun but wearable colours has sizzled up the summer with lip loving lip tints called Lip Lust ($13 USD)! If you love the idea of a tinted lip balm in a lipstick form then Pop Beauty's Lip Lust has you covered with four fun shades: Naughty Red (sheer strawberry red), Dewy Toffee (light peachy-nude), Flirty Fuchsia (sheer pink fuchsia), and Petal Pink (sheer pale pink).
I've been wearing Flirty Fuchsia. I love any fuchsia lip colour. The lip tint goes on sheer but has a really great colour payoff. Apply one layer and you get a nice hint of colour. Apply it again for a lip popping effect. It really is moisturizing and feels like I'm not wearing anything. Lip Lust also contains lip plumping properties to fill in lines and plump the lips. I love the cute compact case it comes in. Perfect for little purses. I also read that it is infused with natural food flavourings for a yummy taste but I don't experience this. In fact, my only complaint would be the taste. Do you remember your first cheap lipstick like Wet 'n Wild you bought? The waxy flavour reminded me of when I was a little girl. I don't know if maybe I received a dud but I prefer either no flavour or a yummy flavour. All in all, when I'm in a rush and want a bit of colour to hydrate my lips this isn't a bad choice to swipe on.
Have you tried Lip Lust? Love it? Hate it?
www.sephora.com
My Three Sunblocks
If you've read my blog for any length of time, you no doubt know that I am not a sun worshiper. Hell, when it comes to the sun and my skin tone, I am downright vampiric! I am extremely fair skinned, have blonde hair and blue eyes...add to that an irrational fear of skin cancer, and you'll understand why I don't go running out to tanning beds. And why I am, most likely, Vitamin D deficient.
Anyway...being a heliophobe (the Lydia term for a super pale goth girl), I wear sunblock every day of my life. I thought I'd share my favorite sunblocks that I've been using this summer.
Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 15: $11.00 (approx); available at drugstores
Why I like it: This provides sun coverage and moisturizing all in one cream. It is a bit thick, but it goes on easily. Plus it has almost no scent so it won't interfere with perfumes or other fragrances. I put it on when I get out of the shower and can breath a bit easier knowing that I have at least some protection for the day.
What I'd change: Not much--maybe just increase the SPF to 30 or higher.
Best for: Limited sun exposure; everyday use (don't use on your face--it's too greasy!)
MD Skincare Powerful Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Pads: $42; available at Sephora and department stores
Why I like it: These are so convenient and are a snap to use. They're like moist towelettes that provide a nice layer of sun protection. They're so simple to use I can even get my hubby to use them without too much complaint.
What I'd change: The price. Convenience never comes cheap.
Best for: Stashing in your bag for use when you didn't expect to be in the sun.
Skin Effects by Dr. Jeffery Dover Sun Effects SPF 45 Active Sunscreen Continuous Spray: $12.99; available at CVS
Why I like it: It sprays on quickly, providing coverage without getting your hands all gunked up with lotion. It smells good and feels cool on the skin...a nice bonus in the summer!
What I'd change: I'd cut down the drying time just a bit, but it's so easy to use that I'll forgive it.
Best for: A day at the beach! I used this on my recent vacation and maintained my ultra-white complexion.
No matter what you use, be sure to use an SPF product daily. The sun does all sorts of wonderful things, but I, for one, am paranoid about a potential burn.
Now I'm a Believer!
I mentioned last week that I was trying out a product called Blo & Go. I said I would give the product a test run and then share my thoughts with you. Well...I'm ready to give you my assessment!
Let me start this review by admitting a certain degree of skepticism on my part about this tool. At first blush, I dismissed it as another product I didn't need, an "As Seen On TV" solution to a problem I didn't know existed.
Then I gave it a try.
Here's a tiny bit of an actual conversation between my mother and myself:
MOM: Your hair looks nice today.
ME: Thanks.
MOM: I like it when you use your flat iron to straighten it out.
ME: Oh, I didn't use my flat iron today....I just blew it dry.
MOM: Really? It's so straight and shiny...it looks like you really took your time with it.
ME: Nope. I dried it using that Blo&Go thing I'm testing for my blog.
That conversation pretty much sums up my experience with the Blo&Go. It's amazing! All my jaded skepticism vanished with the results I got. But let me back up a bit and give you a more in depth review.
The Blo&Go is easy to set up. Sure, I had my husband do it for me, but I watched him do it and it seemed easy enough. The Blo&Go suctions to a flat, non-porous surface (I am using the mirror in my bathroom) and holds itself very securely. You strap in your hairdryer with a bungee cord, tilt and position the neck of the Blo&Go as needed, and you're good to go...and blow! (Sorry.) I was concerned that the Blo&Go wouldn't reach far enough out, since I have to attach it to my mirror and it needs to span my vanity. The neck is plenty long and stretching out over the bathroom counter was no problem.
The Blo&Go is easy to use. You just turn on your dryer, stand underneath, and brush and syle your hair as you dry it. Having both hands free is a huge help. It allowed me to really brush my hair, making it more silky and shiny and giving it a better finished look.
It seems like the Blo&Go cut down on my overall drying time. Because it is suspended over my head, the top of my head and the back/bottom layers dried faster. Plus I don't have to flat iron my hair anymore...unless I really, really want to (and who wants to spend more time and energy on their hair? Not I!).
I can see why the Blo&Go sells out when it's featured on HSN. It does an amazing job. If it can make MY hair look good, there's hope for the rest of you. Yes, this may seem like a weird product, but I'm telling you...it has made a difference for me. Who knew?
Beauty Review: CAUDALIE Skincare
Out of all the products I have tried from the CAUDALIE line, I love each and every one of them. Here are a few of my faves: (just so you know my skin is pretty dry, occasionally oily on my nose, but for the most part dry)
For those days when you are super tired (which means everyday for most of us), the CAUDALIE Cleansing Water ($15-$29) removes impurities in seconds. Just soak a cotton pad and wipe your face until the cotton pad is clean, no need to rinse. This is a great makeup remover, cleanser and toner all in one.
The CAUDALIE Gentle Cleanser ($32.50) is a milk cleanser that can be tissued or rinsed off. I like the look of my skin after I use this because it looks extra hydrated and feels super soft. I prefer to use this only at night so it can hydrate my skin while I sleep.
The CAUDALIE Instant Foaming Cleanser ($13-$32.50) is really, really nice. The foam is airy and works right into the skin giving you a nice squeaky clean feeling. It works for all skin types but I think it's probably best for normal to combo.
The CAUDALIE Beauty Elixir ($19-$62.50) is one of the many products I’m hooked on. It sets makeup, refreshes, hydrates, tones, adds radiance and is basically the perfect wake-me-upper. A few friends say it smells like medicine, but I love the smell, it reminds me of a cozy, relaxing day at the spa.
Last but not least, the one moisturizer I will shrivel up and cry without, the CAUDALIE VINOSOURCE Anti-wrinkle Nourishing Cream ($61). It is so amazing and does wonders for dry skin - no more flaking, no more uncomfortable tightness, no more bland looking skin. I have tried many, many, many moisturizers and this is one that I cannot live without. Only thing, it's a bit pricey but my justification is: what's the point of having nice makeup when you don't have great skin, right? In my books, it's worth every penny.
Has anyone tried the CAUDALIE line? What do you think?
Now all I need is a nice glass of wine :)
Brand Overview: Pur Minerals
A couple of years ago, when I started out my blog, I made the switch from using liquid foundation to using mineral makeup. Like most beauty consumers, my transformation into a minerals user came via Bare Escentuals. While BE is the reigning champ on the mineral makeup world, there are plenty of mineral based cosmetics out there that can give BE a run for its money.
I recently started testing out Pur Minerals. All through July, I have used products from their Pur-fect Starter Kit. For $35, this kit contains the following:
- 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup: The cornerstone of Pur Minerals, this one-minute mineral makeup miracle is your mineral foundation, powder, concealer and SPF protection all in one neat makeup compact. Completely free of oil, alcohol, talc, fragrances, preservatives and chemical dyes, this mineral foundation is actually good for your skin!
- Mineral Glow: A touch of sun in a makeup compact, this mineral powder will impart a natural, sun-kissed glow to your skin.
- Universal Marble Powder in Pink: Give your skin back that rosy glow you were born with. Universal Marble Powder corrects, brightens and imparts antioxidants into the skin. This multi-purpose mineral makeup can be worn on your eyes, lips and cheeks.
- The Chisel Makeup Brush: The magic behind the mineral makeup look! The only makeup brush to use for application of your 4-in-1 Mineral Makeup, it provides maximum coverage and an amazingly smooth finish.
WHAT I LIKE:
- The price. At just $35, the Pur Minerals starter kit is a deal, especially when you compare it to BE's starter kit that will set you back $60.
- The convenience. The 4-in-1 makeup is a huge time saver. I get a completely covered face in one quick step. There is no need for extra concealer or "setting" my makeup with a finishing powder.
- The lack of mess. I've mentioned before that mineral makeup can be a little messy, what with all the loose powder flying around. The Pur Minerals products seem much less sloppy. They way they are made and packaged makes it easy for me to toss the pots of product into my makeup bag without worrying that I am going to have a wasteful mess getting in my way.
- The look. The products in the Pur Minerals starter kit are excellent and give me a great look for my casual, everyday life.
- The brush. Maybe it's just me, but the brush that came with the kit could use some improvement. I had a lot of excess hairs come off the brush and onto my skin. I switched over to a Kabuki-style brush I have in my makeup bag and found that I had better coverage and no stray bristles.
As a BE user, I was pleasantly surprised by Pur Minerals. If you want to get on the mineral makeup bandwagon but are uneasy about spending a ton of money, give Pur Minerals a try. They offer very good products with excellent value. You can't go wrong!
Here's to Year 3!
Today is Kiss-and-Makeup's birthday! On July 27, 2006 I started my blog. I had no clue I'd still be writing it two years later or how much I would learn from it. It's been a fun couple of years and I don't think I'll be slowing down any time soon.
So...to toast the start of year 3, I thought I'd celebrate with a giveaway. All you need to do to enter is leave me a comment on this entry. Tell me what you like about this site or what you want to see more of. Get your entry in by midnight (Pacific Time) on Monday, August 4th. A winner will be selected at random and announced on August 5th.
The prize? A Wild Child gift set from Lush containing Chocolate Whipstick lip balm, Happy Hippy shower gel, Rock Star soap and a Flosty Gritter bubble bar. Yum!
Good luck!
Wigging Out on Shear Genius
Time for the weekly recap of Bravo's Shear Genius. I must say I'm liking the whole Project Runway at 9:00 pm and Shear Genius at 10:00 pm scheduling. It means I only have to devote 2 hours a week to "must see" TV.
So...here's the skinny on all the drama from this week.
SHORT CUT CHALLENGE
The contestants headed to the beach to trim some surfer dudes in the short cut challenge. No big deal, right? Wrong! The stylists had no access to fresh water, thus no hair washing, and they had no blow dryers. They had to give their surfer a more sophisticated look that did not require a lot of extra fussing. Some stylists seemed confused about cutting men's hair.
Oscar Blandi was the special guest judge for the challenge. As a side note, Blandi's Trattamento D'Alternanza Exfoliating Treatment for hair was the very first Beauty Product of the Week here at Kiss-and-Makeup! It seemed like Oscar hated everyone's cutting job. Charlie's look was too conservative, Daniel's cut was too scary, Glenn gave her model a woman's cut which made her surfer dude look like a lady. In the end, Glenn lost the challenge while Nicole rightfully won with an appropriate cut that flattered her beach bum.
Here's the losing short cut look (Glenn):
And the winning short cut look (Nicole):
ELIMINATION CHALLENGE
It was a "very special episode" of Shear Genius this week as the contestants' challenge was to cut and style wigs for people suffering from Alopecia. Many of the contestants became very emotional during the experience and really wanted to give their clients something new, something flattering, something fun. Nicole and Paolo came out on top--they connected best with their clients and weren't afraid to push the limits to finish their looks. Paolo ultimately won but did not get immunity for the next challenge.
The bottom three were Gail, Nekisa (suprise, surprise!), and Charlie. Nekisa...a woman who's lasted this long because she looks good on camera and is an egomaniacal drama queen...gave her model a box, unflattering Peg Bundy cut; Charlie's look was too heavy and too boring; Gail's style aged her client. In the end, Gail went home, the victim of not having as strong a personality as the other two challenge losers.
Here's the winning look from Paolo. Click here to learn how to get this look:
And here's Gail's losing 'do:
RANDOM THOUGHTS
The contestants are really being thinned out and, like I said last week, I have yet to pick a favorite...a person to root for. For some weird reason, I like Paolo. Maybe it's the tattoos? I just don't know.
I was slightly happy to see that Season 1 mega-bitch, Tabitha, will be starring in a show that is reminiscent of Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares. She'll be going to salons and telling them, in her gentle, delicate way, what needs to be done to make them better. We in America like bossy people with accents coming in and showing establishments how to be better!
Beauty Deals: Tarte Lovers Save 40% Off Everything!
Tarte lovers hurry now before sale ends! 40% off everything while supplies last! Visit www.tartecosmetics.com to make your purchase! Enter code: FF08 at check out. My faves: Cheek Stains and Double Dose Gloss! Time to stock up!
Visual Fix: High Fashion Meets Retro '80s
I can just picture Tyra Banks from America’s Next Top Model saying to her models “don’t let that sexy, naked man out shine you!” I love the high fashion mixed with retro ‘80s - the pop of colour really works. Her frizz-less, ultra bouncy curls and flawless makeup bring the whole look together. Love it!
Shear Genius: Get the Winning Look
Come back tomorrow (Friday) morning for a recap of this week's episode of Shear Genius!
If you watched the show last night, you saw the stylists work on wigs for clients with Alopecia. Paolo was the winner of the challenge and his look is above.
Here are tips on how to get this winning look from Roy Teeluck at Nexxus:
When choosing a wig, make sure you choose a style that fits your personality. It’s important to remember that styling a wig is a “one time cut,” so go for a look that you can wear every day, and can also take from day to night.
- For additional lift, dampen the wig and add a volumizing root lifter, such as Nexxus Root Exxtend.
- Divide the wig into sections and blow-dry using a large, round brush to add body and volume.
- After blow drying, use a styling lotion like Nexxus VersaStyler to separate the layers and emphasize texture.
- To help set your style and maintain volume, spray entire head with a flexible, bodifying hairspray, such as Nexxus 360° Volume.
Concealer 101
I recently received an email from a reader who wanted to know more about concealer. It was when I read her question that I realized that, apart from this entry, I have not talked a whole lot about concealer.
Why? Because I never use the stuff. As much as I love makeup, I don't like taking extra steps or using extra products if it is not absolutely necessary. To cover my many flaws, I just stick with foundation. If my dark circles or huge blemishes can't be hidden with my normal makeup routine, then so be it. I'm not what you would call a perfectionist!
However, there are plenty of people who use concealer on a regular basis. This entry will be an overview on why to use it, how to use it, and other tips. If you are a concealer user and you want to add your thoughts on the subject, by all means, leave a comment!
WHY SHOULD I USE CONCEALER?
Concealer does just what it says: it conceals imperfections. Unlike foundation that balances out skin tone all over the face. concealer is best used in specific places. If foundation is like a broad brush, concealer is the fine, more detailed tool. Concealer is best used to cover up dark under eye circles, to make pimples or blackheads less noticeable, or as a primer for eyeshadow.
HOW SHOULD I USE CONCEALER?
Because concealer is for finer details, it should only be used in those pinpointed spots. Do not use concealer for all over color. Apply concealer lightly, using either a concealer brush or your fingertips. The more gentle your touch, the better. Just dot the concealer over the area needing coverage, gently blotting the product into the skin to thoroughly blend it. If you don't blend concealer correctly, or if you use too much, you can end up with a cakey look that will only draw more attention to your problem area. Not what you want!
OTHER INFO
- For information about colored concealers, click here for an earlier entry I wrote on the subject.
- If you don't want to buy a separate concealer, you can try just using your normal foundation and a concealer brush to add more product to your trouble area
- If you're a concealer user, please leave a comment with your tips and let me know the name/maker of your favorite concealer!
Beauty Review: Summer Beauty Essentials for Fun in the Sun
In a perfect world we would be able to do whatever we wanted to our skin and hair no matter what the weather. Then what would my life be without beauty products??? I started noticing last year that my skin was becoming really sensitive to products with an SPF. It started out with face and body moisturizers and then I noticed some tinted moisturizers were making me react. My face would get red, itchy, and bumpy. I had a few rashes on my arms that turned into blisters last summer from a Neutrogena tan enhancing moisturizer with an SPF 20. After I stopped using it, my rashes disappeared (thank god!). I've been weary about using products with an SPF, up until now. (If you experience allergic reactions from SPF check out Savvy Skin's article on Burning Skin Care Ingredients.)
I know I'm committing a beauty offense, but I just started using sun protection on my face a couple of weeks ago! I've tested a few SPF moisturizers and tinted moisturizers this summer and I've finally found a winner with L'Occitane en provence Sunscreen Veil High Protection SPF 30 Face/Eye ($30 CAD)! This is part of a new sun care line fully made in Brazil. Made from a 100% mineral sunscreens and Brazilian organic vegetable oil from the palm-tree Buriti, which is incredibly concentrated in the anti-oxidant beta-carotene. It is light-weight and has a velvet matte finish. In the most humid weather, I don't even feel it on my skin. A little goes along way - you only need 1 pump. It goes on white but once massaged into the skin the colour disappears (be sure to apply before makeup). I love the compact bottle because you take it anywhere and reapply as needed. I'm glad my skin is getting some much needed sun protection without the burning itchy rash!
My skin doesn't usually burn. On Canada Day we were out the whole day in the beating hot sun without an SPF on my body. The next day to my surprise, I experienced my first burn on my neck and chest. It wasn't painful, but annoyingly itchy and hot. Thanks to L'Occitane After-Sun Balm Lotion ($26 CAD), the burn did not last long. It has a nice light scent and instantly cools and soothes the skin. It's non-greasy and doesn't clog the pores. Can be used on both face and body. This after-sun lotion is formulated with organic vegetable butter of Cupuacu, an ingredient that intensely hydrates and regenerates the skin after sun exposure. Tip: For a more cooling effect, place in the refrigerator. 
The drugstore is usually my resource for hair care. It's rare for me to spend a lot on hair products even with all the rave reviews of the higher end brands. Ojon's 5 Piece Shine & Protect Hair Ritual Kit ($50 USD) is making me sing another tune. This rescue kit contains Restorative Hair Treatment, Shine and Protect Shampoo, Shine and Protect Conditioner, Shine and Protect Glossing Mist, and Leave-in Glossing Cream. It is the ultimate protection against thermal styling, the sun and environmental damage. I love the Leave-in treatment and the Glossing Mist! My hair is healthier, shinier, and less frizzy. A definite must for beautiful hair any time of the year!
Have you tried these summer beauty essentials? Love it? Hate it? Happy shopping!
L'Occitane en Provence
http://ca.loccitane.com
Ojon products available at Sephora
www.sephora.com
Beauty Icon: Indian Goddess Aishwarya Rai
.jpg)
Aishwarya, winner of Miss World '94, has graced her presence in many Bollywood films and has recently entered the Hollywood industry with roles in Bride and Prejudice and the upcoming Pink Panther 2. Her signature bluish-green eyes draw you in and make you want to know more – all I have to say is stunning!
As one of the faces of L’Oreal, Ash had the chance to create a unique L’Oreal Lipstick shade, Aishwarya’s Beige, it's subtle and soft and works with most complextions (available at most retailers). She was also named Top 100 in the 2004 edition of Times Magazine.
Her look comes effortlessly- in lavish saris adorned with embroidery and jewels, flowing gowns or fitted jeans with a cute tee - Aishwarya has the confidence and ability to make any room come to life. With thousands of images of her, it was hard to choose just a few, but these are by far my fave and manage to show every side of this Indian Goddess.
Double Duty!
I'm a lip product junkie. On any given day, I typically have at least 4 tubes of lipstick or lipgloss floating around in my purse. It's rare if I have actual cash in my wallet and I can never seem to find my cell phone, but when it comes to fishing out a tube of lip color from my always cluttered purse, I can find it like a magnet finds metal. The last time I stopped and paid attention to my lipstick hording ways, I was equally amused and disgusted to find that I had squirreled away just under two dozen lip products in my bag. Yikes!
Well, for all the lip obsessed out there (myself included), there's a thoughtfully packaged lip product that gives you two for one: Senna Cosmetic's Lip Sync. For $24, you get both a lipgloss and a lipstick in the same shade (another plus! I can't tell you how many times I found the perfect lipstick shade but wished that it came in a gloss...or the other way around!) in a double-stacked tube. The packaging on this product really is inventive. I think I used the word "clever" to describe it to one of my family members.
Right now, Senna is only offering three shades: A La Mode--a rosy peach; Paris Pink--a true, soft pink; and Stunning--an earthy shade with hints of coral. You can either wear the lipstick or gloss alone, or layer them up for a completely new look. Both the gloss and the stick have a pleasant cookie (what they call biscotti) flavor. I hope they add new colors for the upcoming Fall and Winter seasons! I love the innovative packaging and the fact that you are getting two products for the price of one. Both my wallet AND my handbag approve!
Well THIS Sounds Fishy!
I saw this on the Internet the other day, and now my local news station ran a syndicated story about it.
Apparently, there is a salon in Virginia that uses fish...carp, to be exact...to remove callouses and other hard/scaly skin from your feet. Don't believe me? Click here for the story.
What do you think about this? Would you be willing to plop your tootsies in a tub full of fish at your next pedi? I think it's kinda yucky. It reminds me of the old times when doctors would use leeches for bloodletting to cure what ails you. I just don't think I want to go there. But I guess I can't knock it til I try it, right?
Makeup Junkie Nominated for a Brillante Award!
Woohoo! Makeup Junkie has been nominated for a Brillante Award! We're so touched to be nominated by the ever-fabulous Jamie from The Beauty of Life! I am equally a fan of Jamie and her blog so thank you!
Here are the Premio Award rules:
1) When received, you may post the premio to your blog.
2) Link to the blogger you received it from.
3) Give it to 7 blogs
4) Link to those 7 blogs
5) Leave those 7 bloggers a comment about receiving the brilliant premio.
My nominations go to:
The Beauty of Life: I know if Jamie and I lived close to each other we'd be the best of buds! I love reading her blog because you can feel her excitement and love for a product through her words. Her site is always updated featuring a consistent theme everyday so you know you're getting fresh, new content. She's got an impeccable writing style full of personality. Jamie's blog is seriously one of the few blogs I read when I get a free moment. Love her!
Lipstick, Powder, 'n Paint: Ellen is just fabulous! Her blog always features the latest beauty launches and excellent beauty reviews. I'm also loving the layout of her new site! If you've ever met Ellen then you know she's just a blast to talk with. I love getting together with her having cocktails and gabbing about beauty. She's a smart business women and hilarious! It's no wonder her site is so popular!
Temptalia: I've always been a fan of Christine's blog. She always has the 411 on the latest MAC products and does gorgeous makeup tutorials. I love how she engages her readers by doing polls and getting readers to send in their own makeup tutorials.
Specktra Beauty News: Also another top source for MAC product launches, Janice and her team have got it goin' on! I love seeing the promo pics and colour swatches - they know how to get you hooked! But they don't just feature MAC but other top brands I love.
Musings of a Muse: A Blog of Musings from a Cosmetic Whore: Isabella has got a great sense of humour as you can tell from her blog title. I love her in-depth reviews, experiences and product images. She's one muse that doesn't shy away from bold colour and shimmer and that's what I love!
The Beauty Ideal: How can I not love The Beauty Ideal when it's brought to you by the fabulous members of The Beauty Blog Network? I love reading all the monthly features and think Elke is pretty awesome for including us members in it!
Makeup2Beauty: Agostina is a celebrity makeup artist who's work I admire. Her site always feature's fantastic "How-To's" on everything from choosing the right colours for your skin tone to achieving plump lips.
Thanks again to Jamie from The Beauty of Life for this awesome nomination!
Makeup Obsession: Cargo blu_ray Collection
With the zillions of beauty products out there, I still manage to get obsessed over products. Some obsessions are fleeting but others quickly become staples in my makeup stash. Back in January when Cargo's blu_ray collection launched, I was intrigued but very skeptical. You can read about it here. Then in February at a Sephora grand opening I got to play around with it but only on my hand. The powder looked chalky, the blush didn't show, and the gloss quad seemed like any other gloss. I concluded that it was just a lot of hype.
It is rare that I'll gush about a product after I've already written it off. Well now I'm obsessed with the entire blu_ray collection! I've been using it on myself, on Ali for ChickChat TV, and on a few brides and the results are flawless. The hi-def collection is designed to make you look flawless in any light, from your office to the bright summer light. The line was created for makeup artists working in television and film where every flaw is magnified and heavy coverage would be too noticeable. Blu_ray gives you natural, flawless coverage for everyday wear using Photochromatic pigments (automatically colour corrects makeup to be consistent in any lighting) and optical blurring (fills in lines and wrinkles, reflects light to camouflage imperfections without glitter or shine). 
Cargo blu_ray High Definition Mattifier ($24 USD): This has become my makeup primer of choice. This oil-free mattifier refines pores, minimizes fine lines, and mattifies the skin! Sometimes this is all I need (besides my under eye concealer) when I leave the house. My skin looks so flawless and feels so smooth after I apply it. The texture feels like silicone so the makeup just glides on. I've tried many primers that claim to mattify the skin but this is the only one that truly does. My Smashbox Photo Finish Primer is pretty good but I do find at the end of the day my nose ends up shiny. Cargo's HD mattifier keeps my skin shine-free and my makeup on all day. You can also use this in place of a translucent setting powder - just apply over your makeup for a shine-free finish! Less products to use at home and on set!
Cargo blu_ray Pressed Powder ($30 USD): When I introduce this powder to clients I jokingly brag about how it's HD. They "ooohhh" and "awww" and laugh it off but when they see the results they really "ohhh" and "awww". The first time I had tried it, I patted the powder onto my hand with my finger. The neutral beige powder looked chalky on my skin tone and I decided it wasn't worth all the hype. Now that I've had the chance to really work with it using my lovely brushes, the results are just gorgeous. Every time I wear it, my skin looks like it's been photoshopped! The skin looks soft and youthful thanks to the optical blurring and the Photochromatic pigments make you look flawless when photographed in natural light or flash. It also colour corrects redness without applying heavy correctors. If you want a radiant, natural finish without shine or shimmer this powder is it!
Cargo blu_ray Blush/Highlighter and HD Blush in Peach ($28 USD): The original universally flattering pinky-peach shade is a blush and highlighter in one. The velvelty formula is oil-free and contains the same properties as the pressed powder giving you the same flawless, radiant effect. I love using this shade on brides because it gives the "blushing bride" effect.
Beauty scoop: Launching this September a new shade in Peach will join the original! This soft peach shade warms up the skin giving you a healthy glow. I especially love layering this over top of bronzer (good tip for darker skin tones). Both shades are neutral and work with any look. These two shades are all that I've been wearing lately! But I won't be giving up my other blushes just yet ;)
Cargo blu_ray Lip Gloss ($29 USD): Sometimes a gloss is a gloss and that's exactly what I thought about Cargo's HD version when it first launched. I never really gave it a fair chance since I didn't dare try it on my lips at the Sephora store. Now that I've been able to wear it on my lips and have others try it, I do see the difference compared to other glosses. Transparent pearl pigments provide an even colour payoff at any angle (just turn your head from side-to-side) and hyaluronic acid spheres and a peptide chain plump lips and smooth out lines. The quad includes a sheer plum, sheer peachy-pink, sheer rose, sheer golden beige and each can be worn on their own or mixed together for a custom colour. The texture feels like a lip balm and has a subtle minty flavour. The shades are pretty sheer so they look very natural and wearable for everyday but if you'll be taking photos or going out in the evening I'd use a lip liner to bump up the colour. I like to use the lighter shades over top of the darker ones to give the lips a nice highlight. Your lips will look great any time especially in photos or on camera. I hope they come out with another quad with some reds or bright pinks!
Beauty Scoop: Cargo blu_ray Concealer ($28 USD): This won't hit the market until this September but I got the inside scoop on this fabulous product! Water-proof, water-resistant, and wrinkle fighting, this concealer does it all! This pen style with sponge-tip applicator contains light -diffusing pigments that provide flawless coverage while looking completely natural. If you're looking for less expensive and painful alternative to Botox, this HD concealer contains Visilox which studies show is an excellent alternative. It brightens, lightens, and tightens! I'm still unsure if more shades will be launched because I find it's a little too light for the rest of my face. It's perfect for my under eye area though. For hard to cover areas, use your finger to build coverage by pressing and patting the product.
Beauty Scoop: Cargo blu_ray Polishing Cloths ($15 USD): We all know if your skin isn't up to par, your makeup just won't look right. These cloths are the ultimate skin primer, made of nano-scale fibers (thinner than human hair), exfoliate the skin's surface for gorgeous, glowing skin. Use these cloths 1-2 times a week with your favourite cleaner, scrubbing each section in a circular motion. You can literally see dirt, dry skin, black heads, and white heads slough off your face onto the cloth! It's gentle enough for sensitive skin. The bonus - these cloths are reusable! Be on the lookout come September when these cloths launch!
What's your latest beauty obsession? Have you tried Cargo's blu_ray collection? Love it? Hate it? Happy shopping!
www.cargocosmetics.com
