BEAUTY
BEAUTY

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

stila pearl shimmer gloss

I am loving all that is Stila lately. I have gone from a couple things that I never use to about 4 or 5 things that I can't imagine not having in my life. One of my new loves is this little gem right here on the left. It's Stila's Pearl Shimmer Gloss in South Sea Coral ($22). And yes, that is the color of it, but it goes on much lighter with a nice level of shimmer - nothing too crazy. I think they say it's a soft, shimmering peach...which is pretty much exactly how I would describe it.

There are 4 different shades of the Pearl Shimmer Gloss and all are Limited Edition, so you need to get your hands on these ASAP. One of the colors (Pearl Kitten) can only be found at Sephora, but the other 3 you can find anywhere Stila is sold. They are perfect for the new Spring/Summer colors.

As with most glosses, it doesn't last nearly as long some, but it does last longer than others (I'm looking at you Stila Lip Glaze....I still love you though). You can normally find this at stilacosmetics.com but the site is under repair and it will direct you to Sephora. You can also find Stila at Ulta.


Christine

Spring into Spring with Three Custom Color Specialists Gorgeous Lip & Cheek Stains



Adored by beauty editors, makeup artists, beauty addicts, and, well, who doesn't have love for Three Custom Color Specialist? No one I know for sure.


It’s time to banish those winter doldrums and reclaim the healthy glow that goes hand-in-hand with springtime. The Three Custom Woman, at any age, glows from within like she’s fresh off the slopes, just out of her yoga class, or after a day at the beach.


Here's how to get a healthy glow (without working out - ha). Three Custom Color Specialists Lip & Cheek Stain - their array of beautiful, wearable shades are designed for all skin tones. Better yet, these two-in-one gems are easy to apply, portable and give a dewey, long-lasting glow to lips and cheeks. These are truly richly pigmented, gorgeously textured products that take the multi-tasker to a whole new level. Retailing for $22.50 a compact and in six deliciously flattering shades, there's one to enhance every skin tone.


Shop with them now, and enjoy their Crème Concealer sample fest. This unique and versatile formulation is a favorite of makeup artists and consumers alike. Use it full coverage to conceal redness or dark circles, apply with a wet sponge to use as a foundation or blend with your favorite face cream to create the perfect tinted moisturizer. Three Custom Color invites you to request samples of up to three different shades with any online order. Just indicate which shades you would like to try in Customer Notes during checkout and get flawless!


For more information or to shop Three Custom Color Specialists, where tips, products and goodness reign, visit them online anytime.

Introducing Honoré des Prés Organic Fragrances at Spirit Beauty Lounge





Honoré des Prés is the first line of french organic scents designed by the legendary Olivia Giacobetti, nose and fragrance composer for such prestigious houses as L'Artisan Parfumeur, Diptyque, Guerlain, Frédéric Malle and Agnès B. Honoré des Prés fragrances are completely natural and certified organic by ECOCERT. They include no petrochemical products or synthetic perfumes, and are free of coloring agents and phthalates.



The descriptions of these fragrances, as well as their inner, essential quality, is reminiscent of something characteristically divine. I've long been an admirer of Olivia Giacobetti scents. These, I cannot wait to experience. A little taste for you ...



Bonte's Bloom - summery, sunny and feminine - is inspired by a dreamlike summer voyage; dressed in white muslin and wearing a vintage hat, you walk alongside sunflower fields in a warm sun-kissed afternoon and marvel at dragonflies and butterflies. Sunflowers, South Indian flowers, wild Moroccan blue chamomile, fresh citrus fruit leaves from Paraguay, sage leaves – those that the wild honeybees prefer – and a drop of white iris butter to add a touch of “vintage chic”.



Chaman’s Party - deep, woodsy and complex - is an explosive unisex fragrance with aphrodisiac properties. Inspired by a tree-house experience and total immersion in the heart of the virgin Amazon forest. Intended for those who know, be they women or men, how to breathe in the earth’s strength. Vetiver root from Haiti, sacred basil from Egypt, Wood of Life from Venezuela, dried clove flowers from Madagascar.



Honoré's Trip - a citrus explosion - saturated with citrus fruit, saturated with color, saturated with Mediterranean fruit, saturated with freshness… An explosive cocktail of pure tangerine extracts, Mediterranean oranges, all yellow and green lemons, together with spicy pepper taken from trees in the Philippine Islands.



Nu Green - light, minty and dewey - is inspired by a spring morning’s refreshing swim in a natural rock pool in the heart of nature. You sense how this beneficial water purifies and sheds the superficial. A ruffle of crumpled green mint leaves, enveloping dewy grass with Indian botanical musk, clumps of monastic medicinal tarragon and cedar wood.



Sexy Angelic - soft, gentle and sweet - this girls’ perfume reveals a girl’s secret love elixir… Inspired by a deliciously sweet experience of French marzipan candies. The pure secret of seduction used by French women to meet their Prince Charming! Described as "A fresh almond fruit caress rubbed onto weeping maidens’ cleansed skin." with a snip of hemlock flower, a touch of Angelica flower seed and a hint of freshly baked “Calisson” marzipan candy from Aix en Provence. A baby powder soft, subtly sweet, feminine scent.



All Honoré des Prés perfumes come wrapped in an amazing kraft brown accordion folded box you just have to see in person. The bottles are lovely. Each edt scent is bottled in 3.3 fl oz size. They retail for $145 a bottle are are available now at Spirit Beauty Lounge.



Monday, March 30, 2009

eyebrows 101

I've been a little fanatical about my eyebrows lately, so I found this video on youtube that features Fatima Olive giving some tips for eyebrow shaping at home. It's fast and it's simple and I love it.

Enjoy!



If you're looking for some other great brow help, or are in the market for some fabulous brow products, look no further than The Beauty Blog Network's phenomenal Elke. On her site, Elke Von Freudenberg -The Model Brow, you can find products, step-by-step tweezing guides and much much more!

Head on over and check it out!



Jennifer

Nordstrom: Ruben Toledo Beauty Gift With Purchase Event



Receive a fabulous Nordstrom-exclusive Ruben Toledo cosmetics bag filled with 13 samples from your favorite beauty brands with your $100 beauty or fragrance purchase.


Includes:
  • Origins Modern Friction™ Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion (0.17 oz.)
  • L'Occitane Almond Milk Concentrate (0.28 oz.)
  • Clarins High Definition Body Lift (0.35 oz.)
  • Laura Mercier Mini Foundation Primer - Oil-Free (0.5 oz.)
  • Smashbox 'Sheer Focus' Tinted Moisturizer in Luminous (0.17 oz.)
  • Chloé Natural Spray Eau de Parfum (0.04 oz.)
  • Bare Escentuals® RareMinerals™ Purely Nourishing Facial Moisturizer (0.06 oz.)
  • Shiseido Bio-Performance Super Refining Essence (0.14 oz.)
  • Kate Somerville™ ExfoliKate™ Intensive Exfoliating Treatment (0.16 oz.)
  • Anastasia Brow Gel - Clear (0.02 oz.)
  • philosophy 'the present' clear makeup skin perfector (0.5 oz.)
  • Leaf & Rusher Rapid Resurface (0.10 oz.)
  • Bvlgari Jasmin Noir Eau de Parfum Natural Spray (0.05 oz.)

Couldn't help but give some suggestions and items to consider to get that gorgeous bag and deluxe beauty samples - and there are some good'uns in there for sure. Brand spanking new for spring and your beauty pleasure:

click image to enlarge

Take Care of All Your Haircare Needs With a Fab Little Deal from Folica



Starting today, March 30th save 10% on purchases of all hair care products at Folica. This is the perfect time to stock up on professional hair care brands like Kerastase, Bumble & Bumble, Frederic Fekkai, and Philip B and get your mane tamed and fabulous for Spring! Folica is one of those sites that gives buyers the opportunity to read reviews of their products directly from the site. I'm appreciating that more and more these days. It's good to know what others' experiences are before investing in a product or tool.




And on Tuesday 3/31, Folica brings back their very popular SEDU20 coupon code which lets shoppers take $20 off their purchase when they buy any Sedu brand appliance. Sedu is a brand that enjoys five-star rating reviews time and time again. You can see many of those directly on the Folica website.


This is a great opportunity to purchase high quality products and tools at already discounted prices with a little extra price break. Yea! You'll also get free shipping on orders of $50 or more.

Smashbox New High Definition Concealer + Free Gift





Achieve a flawless high definition complextion with Smashbox's High Def line of complexion products. Beauty insiders and addicts alike have gone ga-ga over Smashbox High Definition Healthy FX Foundation (already a Best of Sephora nominee). Their revolutionary new High Definition Liquid Concealer is sure to be a hit as well.



The weightless concealer instantly smoothes skin and makes dark circles and imperfections virtually disappear. The good-for-your-skin formula includes cell-energizing ribose, soy, angelica extract and caffeine to reduce redness, dark circles and under eye puffiness. Soft focus pearls reflect light to minimize the appearance of fine lines and blemishes. The soft touch precision applicator provides the smoothest application for the most delicate skin areas. Provides buildable coverage with a natural finish. High Definition Liquid Concealer comes is five shades and retails for $18 a tube.





Pair the concealer with High Definition Healthy FX Foundation for a perfect complexion. Healthy FX is an oil-free, weightless formula packed with anti-aging, revitalizing, and firming ingredients that work overtime to provide cellular nutrition for skin. UVA/UVB SPF 15 offers sun protection, vitamin C fights free radicals, and new cell-energizing Ribose renews the appearance of skin. Our unique, patented bio-delivery system gives you time-released moisturization and firming benefits that last all day. Skin is refreshed and revitalized for a flawless future. Best of Sephora Award Nominee for Best Foundation. It is available in 13 fabulous shades and retails for $38.





Shop now and enjoy a Free Smashbox Travel Set, which includes Travel Photo Op Under Eye Brightener, Travel Bionic Mascara in Jet Black and a Mini Lip Enhancing Lip Gloss in the shade of Go. Click the image above to shop Smashbox and receive additional jumbo deluxe samples free with your order.

With your $65 order at Smashbox online, enter code: TRAVEL at checkout for the free gift set and free shipping as well. The offer ends 4/12/09.

WINNERS: Maybelline Lash Stiletto Giveaway


Thanks to all of you who entered our Maybelline Lash Stiletto Mascara Giveaway. Maybelline Lash Stiletto may be found at mass merchandisers and drugstores nationwide. Read more about Lash Stiletto here.

Congratulations to our winners:
Michelle
Entry # THKO5CTGAVIR
Joelle
Entry # HZJS16SU0JBW
Roslyn Martin
Entry # O0VKQHXX6S2E
Pamela Millstein
Entry # KQUUAMTBBVYU
msngangl
Entry # KVF7P441IATL

Emails have already been sent to the winners. Please reply with your mailing address and your prize will be sent to you directly.


Many thanks to Maybelline Cosmetics for bringing us such a fantastic giveaway! As always, stay tuned, many more giveaways coming soon.

Sunday, March 29, 2009

weekend reads...total beauty


Viva Woman tells you 10 things to avoid when cleansing your face.


Beauty Secrets Revealed tells you about Morning Banana Diet- Japanese Way Of Losing Weight.


The Informed Makeup Maven talks green washing and cosmetics and wants you to peek inside her spring makeup bag. Don't forget to check out her giveaway this fortnight, Rimmel recover foundation and Suki UV blotting papers!


Beauty Anonymous brings you YSL Summer 2009 Limited-edition Collection.


LA Pretty's fave new skin cream is making their skin brighter, clearer, and protecting their Pretty faces from the LA sun. And did we mention it's affordable? Find out what it is here


Frappelattes has pictures of Nicole Richie with baby bump #2! Plus, discover where you can find all-natural pregnancy products to make this pregnancy a beautiful one.


This week Average Metro Joe covers an exclusive laser treatment for hair loss that is completely safe for men and women with troublesome hair loss.


Visit The Beauty Couch to read a review of Maybelline's Lash Stiletto and to enter a drawing to win one for yourself!


The Anti Hair Slave shows you how the Instyler really works. Watch the video review to check it out on a REAL person and also learn a couple tips and tricks for super sleek hair.


Check out one of the coolest nail polish innovations Beauty Junkies Unite has seen in a long time! Incoco Dry Nail Applique kits are a hit!


Daily Dose of Coffee tries out the new Jonathan Product Dirt offering: Spray Dirt. Is it worth the hefty price tag?


Are you a Bare Escentuals or mineral makeup fan? Beauty411 tries out the new Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash Mascara!


See what Fabulous Over Forty uses for her daily and weekly skincare regimen.


Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog is holding a Manic Monday/April Fool's giveaway. Enter to win a Spa Sensuals set. BUT since the giveaway ends on April Fool's Day, Jamie and Beckie are throwing in the kitchen sink of beauty products as well. Don't be fooled. Enter now!


Boutique Flair is one of the first to test some mineral makeup and natural skin care products from the newly launched PRIIA Cosmetics!


eye4style loves the off-kilter luxury of Strange Invisible Perfumes. Check out her review of the three newest scents in the line!


More Than a Pretty Face reminds everyone that the 40% off introductory offer on Daniel Chinchilla Cosmetics line ends March 31. Take advantage of the offer now!


More Than a Pretty Face has a new giveaway: win one of two scented candles from Delirium & Co!


Indian Girl has just the lipstick for lip gloss lovers ! Also, get all your concealer questions answered by pros at Three Custom Color Specialists ! Send in your questions today !


Glossypink tells you how to get Nicole Richie's Blackbook Magazine makeup look!


The Makeup Divas reviews a few products from the new Avon Celestial 2009 Spring Collection.


The Advice Sisters Alison Blackman loves Josie Maran's Tinted MoisturizerRead the review to find out why!

Get The Look: Katie Holmes New Long Hair-by Talking Makeup!


Enter Lipgloss Break's Kitten Vixen Lipgloss Giveaway!


Hot Beauty Health loves Korres new Eco-Friendly Face Primer. Read to find out why!

Have you been looking for Cheap Strivectin? RN Guide to Skin Care found an almost identical item for a fraction of the cost.

Suzanne at Mineral Makeup Reviews reviews Mineral Hygiencis a bismuth free mineral makeup with incredible staying power.

The Beauty Blog is offering a free special report 12 ways to save money on your favorite beauty products when you sign up for The Beauty Insider, a free monthly beauty newsletter from four top rated beauty sites.

This week, Spoiled Pretty is giving away the new June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection: four products (shower gel, body balm, mist, and dry oil body spray) to keep the skin hydrated, glowing and beautiful.

Beauty Blogging Junkie shares the deets on the new Dial AntiOxidant Body Wash with Cranberry and AntiOxidant Pearls. You'll never guess what it reminds her of. Find out here.

weekend reads...beauty blog network



Beauty Anonymous
features Shiseido's Majolica Majorca Summer 2009 Collection.


A Touch of Blusher looks at YSL's Asia-exclusive collection for summer 2009.


Economy got you down? Cybelesays.com is giving about 12 boxes of beauty to help perk you up! Click here to enter.


Missed out on MAC Hello Kitty "On the Prowl" Nail Polish? Well wipe those tears. ThisThatBeauty is giving away bottles of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics "Dangerous" Nail Colour. "Dangerous" embraces the uber trendy gray nail color trend! Click here to enter.


The Makeup Divas reviews a few products from the new Avon Celestial 2009 Spring Collection.


Looking for the perfect cleanser to go with your Aminogenesis Tripeptinon? The Shades Of U dishes out a review on Aminogenesis Really, Really Clean Facial Cleanser.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

beauty deal of the week...fab gwp from lancome at nordstrom


Yes...you can get all of this (a $100 value) with your $39.50 purchase online or in store at your local Nordstrom!

With your purchase of $39.50 or more, you'll get...

Définicils High Definition Mascara in Black (0.07 oz.)
full-size Color Fever Shine Lipstick Vibrant Shine in Boiling Point (0.14 oz.)
Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow Quad in Daylight Amber Mystique, Pose and Couture (0.12 oz.)
Juicy Tubes Smoothie Ultra Shiny Lip Gloss in Pink Horizon (0.28 oz.)
Star Bronzer Poudre Söleil Bronzing Powder (0.05 oz.)
Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover (1.7 oz.)
Rénergie Microlift R.A.R.E.™ Superior Lifting Cream SPF 15 Sunscreen (0.05 oz.)

You can even upgrade your gwp if you spend $65 or more.

When you do, you'll recieve an additional two full-size Color Fever Glosses in Flushed and Inferno—for a $150 total gift value!

All packed up in a cute little bag that just screams spring.

Tell us that's not the perfect pick-me-up for the drab weather we've been having?

The only problem is that you can only get everything while supplies last. If you're ordering online, you don't need a special promo code. Just head on over to nordstrom.com, make your purchase and it'll be added automatically!

Happy shopping!


Jennifer and Christine

Friday, March 27, 2009

Plump Pouts the Natural Way




Can I use a plumper and still have a synthetic-free pout?

Yes! Since the advent of DuWop’s all-natural Lip Venom more brands have followed suit, utilizing essential oils that increase blood flow to the lips and cause slight swelling as a result. While DuWop's plumping agents include cinnamon, wintergreen, and ginger, the new Smashbox O-Plump employs ginkgo biloba leaf extract, goji berry extract, and gingermint. Yet another popular pucker-upper, Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Moisture Plump Lip Balm, is infused with licorice and soybean extracts.


Some paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalates-free enhancers rely on mimicking and replenishing natural substances found within the body to give lips a boost. For example, Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips includes all-natural ceramide—lipid molecules which help repair damaged lip tissue and enable new collagen production—and Josie Maran Plumping Lip Gloss is packed with marine collagen, a form of collagen that’s derived from sea plants.


source: elle.com

ALLURE Giveaway of Insiders' Favorites



Batman has the Batmobile, and Wonder Woman's got her lasso and cuffs—but our heroes' secret weapons are a lot more fun. Chris McMillan swears by Shu Uemura hairstyling and treatment products to tame strands. Dermatologist Patricia Wexler relies on her anti-aging line to turn back the clock. Makeup artist Pat McGrath recommends shades to make eyes look bigger, cheeks rosier, and lips fuller. And Garren loves the way Rsession Tools' Naluwaver, a dual-barrel curling iron, creates natural-looking waves. All of these goodies can be yours with the contest running through the month of March.


Click HERE to enter

kiehl's marvelous mineral mascara

Kiehl’s Since 1851, is introducing Kiehl’s Marvelous Mineral Mascara ($16.50). It comes in either black/brown or black. This just hit stores recently. And I was a little surprised to see a mascara coming out from Kiehl's and was immediately interested in checking it out. And now I have it in black. I just started using it yesterday so I am very early in the reviewing process, but so far I think I like it. It is loaded with various vitamins and other natural products to give you an unique formula that gives lashes natural looking length, volume and a rich, glossy color. Some of the key ingredients are: Acacia Senegal, Jojoba Oil, Aloe Vera, Mineral Pigments, Pro-Vitamin B (Panthenol), Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Marvelous Mineral Mascara, enriched with mineral pigments for rich color, wraps lashes in instant color and care. Combining volumizing Acacia Senegal with conditioning Jojoba Oil and Aloe Vera. Development of Kiehl’s Marvelous Mineral Mascara was in response to fervent requests from customers. This formula addresses a key customer need for natural looking lashes yet accomplished with a “lash caring” application. The safe, yet gentle formula is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Our ultra-soft brush was carefully designed to be tug-free and extra caring for lashes. And is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.


This mascara is available at Kiehl’s stores, 1-800-KIEHLS-1 and www.kiehls.com. I plan on providing a full review soon. I just want to try it out a couple more days before I commit to thumbs up or thumbs down....although I believe things are looking up.


Christine

MAC SS09 Hydraluminous Looks



MAC Spring/Summer 2009 Hydraluminous is play on light, minimal without being austere, it's texture that takes the lead above color. it's pearl highlight, abundant gloss with consideration on where it is applied - cheeks, lids, brows. The bare essentials for the look are MAC Strobe Cream, Clear Brow Set, Gloss, Coal Black Pro Lash Mascara and Bare Slimshine.



THE UNBARE LIP
Perfect the lip with a neutral lip pencil, such as Oak or Subculture, if necessary. Use Slimshine in Bare to create a soft, nude emollient lip. Finish by using 242 Shader Brush to apply Clear Lipglass over Bare for a super, high-shine effect.



LUMINOUSLY RICH
Use a firm brush, such as 252 Shader Brush, to blend Antiqued Gold Cream Colour Base over the eyelid, through the crease, up to the browbone. Follow up by blending All That Glitters Eye Shadow over Antiqued Gold to create a luminescent finish over eyes. Groom brows with Clear Brow Set for a polished effect.



BARE & GLOSSY
Groom brows with brow set in Girl Boy to add a warmth and subtle shine. Use a lash curler to open up eyes first before applying a generous coat of Coal Black Pro Lash Mascara. Finish by using 252 Shader Brush to apply a thin layer of Gloss over the eyelid for a sophisticated, but high powered shine.



GLOSS ON GLOSS
Hydrate skin with Strobe Cream for a soft luminescent sheen on skin. Use clean fingers with a neutral Blushcreme, such as Ladyblush or Uncommon, to apply a soft contour on cheeks. Apply a generous coat of Plush Glass in Ample Pink to moisturize and plump the lips, while boosting the natural rosy color as well.


For more info on MAC Hydraluminous looks and products used to create them, please visit MAC online.

Style Spotlight: Kelly Ripa in Victoria Beckham


Kelly Ripa

The Live! With Regis and Kelly co-host looked chic and sophisticated in a vibrant blue dress from Victoria Beckham Collection on the set of her latest commercial in New York City.

Ripa kept the look clean with simple accessories, including chic black pumps and dainty gold jewelry. I love the sleek, tailored look of this for spring sophistication and the slightness of the jewelry ... impeccable.

source: InStyle

Thursday, March 26, 2009

giveaway with galvanic spa


This patented, hand-held technology is responsible for an evolution in the beauty industry. It not only treats aging at the source, but provides visible results in one 8-minute session! For more than 50 years, many spa and salon professionals have used gentle galvanic currents in customized treatments to refresh and energize the skin. This treatment is now available to everyone in the comfort and convenience of their own home (and at a much more affordable price)! This Galvanic Spa package comes with a month's supply of treatment gels to use with the spa. Retail Price: $350.00

To be honest, I totally just had to go look up what galvanic was. I am not a big spa person - one massage in my whole 31 years. I loved every second of it but I digress. Here's what I learned: for more than 50 years, spa and salon professionals have used gentle galvanic currents in customized treatments to refresh and energize the skin. These treatments, through a gentle massaging action, help to focus cellular energy and enhance circulation. Apparently there is a pre-treatment with a gel that negatively charged with the Galvanic instrument and the negativity is what drives the gel into the skin, which then binds to the impurities. During the actual treatment, the gel and Galvanic instrument are then positively charged and attracts the negative impurities and draws them out of the skin. Leaving you with radiant, glowing skin....and there is your science lesson for the day.

Well, we happen to have one of these Galvanic Spa II to giveaway, complete with one month of treatment gels. All we ask of you is to head on over to this site: www.maquel.nsedreams.com and then come back here and let us know which other product you would like to see up for a giveaway. Send us an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Galvanic Spa II Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address and the product you would like to see featured in another giveaway.

We will randomly select one winner April 8th at 11m EST. The winners will be announced the next day, Thursday, April 9th.

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until April 8th at 11:00 PM EST to enter.


Good luck!!


Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks


*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name, email and mailing address to representatives for nsedreams.com for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. One winner, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by nsedreams.com. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm EST on Wednesday, April 8th.

REVIEW: Lancôme's Skincare Breakthrough of the Year - Genifique



Lancôme introduces Génifique, the first product inspired by your genes. This breakthrough formula is the result of 10 years of research and development in the area of genomics and proteomics and has received seven international patents. Génifique is an entirely new category of product and is geared toward restoring a youthful complexion.

L’Oréal Advanced Research and Lancôme Laboratories forged relationships with Saint Louis Paris University Teaching Hospital and Laval University Teaching Hospital Québec – two renowned institutions making strides in the fields of genomics and proteomics (the study of protein synthesis). They embarked on a decade of discovery, which included the study of 4,400 genes and 1,300 proteins with the most relevance to skin. This unveiled two significant findings:

1. Gene activity slows with age
Young skin is brimming with healthy proteins, but the genes that help activate them slow down with age. Lancôme was able to prove that much like a vintage Mercedes that simply can’t run as fast as it used to, older skin doesn’t produce these genes, which in turn means fewer proteins of youth.

2. Youthful skin carries a unique barcode of proteins
Just like a fingerprint identifies individuals, young skin is identified by a barcode of youth proteins. Lancôme arrived at this amazing discovery after studying the superficial layers of the skin of young women (median age 35) as well as that of older women (median age 65). Lancôme ultimately identified two proteins – CLSP and Desmogleine 1 – that are present in youthful skin. These youth proteins are associated with young skin.


A Cutting Edge Cocktail
Fueled by these discoveries, Lancôme set out to create a product that would challenge the limits of science and innovation.

Génifique contains a complex that has been shown in vitro to stimulate the expression of genes. This complex consists of a cutting-edge cocktail of ingredients: Bio-lysat, a “good” bacteria, and Phytosphingosine-SLC, a building block in skin lipids produced from yeast. This is the first time we have used these two ingredients in combination. The formula also contains HEPES, an exfoliator that helps the skin shed more uniformly, resulting in a smoother surface.


A Lancome First
Génifique is a new category of product designed to be the foundation of a modern skincare routine. It can be used by women of every age, day and night. This high-tech elixir should be used after cleansing and before applying serum or moisturizer. The cushiony texture absorbs rapidly, leaving no residue behind.

The sleek dropper bottle is the perfect delivery system. Simply pump the top to fill the dropper with the exact amount of product needed. Pump the contents of the dropper onto the palm of your hand, warm the product, then apply to your face. Suggested retail price for Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate is $78 for 1 fluid ounce.


REVIEW:
I've found a new staple product to add to my must-have skincare products! As hinted on For the Love of Beauty here and here, Génifique has given me the boost in youthful results I've been looking for. This is a lightweight concentrate quickly absorbed by the skin. It leaves a silky, soft, smooth texture and enhances radiance immediately. I've been using Génifique in combination with products from Olay's new ProX line (as my moisturizers for day and night) and I must say the youth enhancing, line reducing, pore minimizing, texture smoothing results have been fantastic! I've even seen fading of sun spots on my hands - I've never been able to find something that does that effectively and noticeably. Génifique is an odorless fluid that truly stands up to the hype and knocks its socks off. The dropper style bottle makes it sanitary and easy to dispense.

I was shopping at a beauty counter just yesterday testing fragrances and creams. I had my teenage daughter and her 15 year old friend with me. She heard me inquiring to the rep about the new DNA anti-aging skincare products out recently and asked me why I was asking the rep about it. When I answered that I'm always on the lookout for the next, best product to get rid of my forehead wrinkles and the "11" lines between my eyes, she replied, "What lines? You don't have a wrinkle on your face." She raised her eyebrows in the mirror on the counter to produce lines on her own forehead and said, "See, that's what forehead lines look like, and you don't have 'em".

I always knew I liked that friend of my daughter's best! : )


Bottom line: Génifique gives me the results I'm looking for. I couldn't be happier with what it's done for the appearance of my skin in just these two short weeks. My face is smooth, toned, and radiant looking. I love it! Visit Lancôme online or at your nearest Lancôme beauty counter to learn more about it. It's available now.


Want a chance to win a bottle of Lancôme Génifique?
Enter W magazine's Spring Beauty Fix Giveaway here.

Want to hear what Lancôme beauty editors have to say about the product?
Visit the new Lancôme Blog here.



Must note that I'm marking this "press sample" as I did initially receive a small sample to try when it first came out; however I purchased this product before writing the review and continue to purchase since the writing.

W Magazine's Spring Beauty Fix Giveaway



Enter for a chance to win these seven luxurious new products, featured in W magazine's April beauty story, "Smooth Sailing".

Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate
Narciso Rodriguez Essence
Diptyque Huile Precieuse
Guerlain Kajal Mineral kohl Eyeliner
Rodial Skinny Beach SPF15
Bond No. 9 Astor Place
Umi Fix Hairspray

Click HERE to enter.

Px: 5 Tips for Flawless Foundation Application with Jillian Vernan




Prescriptives Director of Artistry Jillian Vernan shares her tips for achieving perfect, flawless skin.

Tip 1 - Prime Your Skin
Using a primer is like wearing a slip under your dress. It smoothes everything out and hides your imperfections.
Jillian's Primer Suggestion: Px Flawless Face Primer gives your skin a silky texture so that foundation glides on easily and stays on longer, while diminishing the look of large pores, lines and wrinkles.


Tip 2 - Know Your Skin Type before Selecting a Formula
Foundations come in all forms and should be selected based on your skin type. Drier skin types should wear a moisture-based formula. Oily or acne-prone should wear an oil-controlling formula.
Jillian's Foundation Formula Suggestions: Px Flawless Skin Total Protection Makeup for drier skin types, Px Virtual Matte Oil-Controlling Makeup for oily or acne-prone skin types and any skin type will benefit from a natural, mineral-rich foundation such as Px All Skin Mineral Makeup.


Tip 3 - Choose the Right Tools
Applying foundation is really a personal preference and each method creates a different finish. For liquid foundations, using your fingers creates a sheerer look while the Foundation Brush produces a smooth, seamless finish. For powder makeup use a round buff brush for even, all-over coverage.
Jillian's Makeup Brush Suggestions: the Foundation Brush for liquid foundations, the Round Buff Brush for powder foundation.


Tip 4 - Apply Concealer OVER Foundation
Allowing concealer over foundation allows for better coverage and prevents the concealer from getting swept away. Using a full-coverage formula will instantly conceal dark circles, lines and wrinkles, while reducing puffiness and redness.
Jillian's Concealer Suggestions: Px Flawless Skin Total Protection Concealer SPF25.


Tip 5 - Set Your Look with Powder
Powder is a great way to complete your look. Keep it very light - use a fluffy powder brush to dust a lightweight formula powder across skin.
Jillian's Powder Suggestions: Px Powder Brush for application, Px Flawless Skin Total Protection Powder for a lightweight formula. You may also wish to consider their iconic Px Magic Liquid Powder to add a candlelit radiance to skin.



click image for offer

the lancome blog and a mini-makeover with sandy linter

By now, you've probably heard that Lancome has started their own blog. Called appropriately enough, The Lancôme Blog (thelancomeblog.blogspot.com) it plans to cover all the buzz about the brand...including their hottest products, news about their spokespeople and makeup artists, to what other beauty editors and bloggers are saying about them.

Readers will be able to read about the latest on Anne Hathaway, Kate Winslet, Clive Owen, Daria Werbowy, Elettra Wiedemann, Arlenis Sosa, Aaron De Mey, Sandy Linter plus other makeup artists, models and celebs.

It's written by Kerry Diamond, Lancome's very own vice president for public relations and a former beauty editor herself, other P.R. team members will be pitching in from time to time.

They're also going to be doing some really cool giveaways...and here's one that we're planning on entering ourselves...

Enter to win a mini-makeover with Sandy Linter (see pic below), the celebrity makeup artist and Lancôme Beauty at Every Age expert.



All you have to do is this, head on over to The Lancome Blog and post a question for Sandy. You're then entered in the giveaway!

It's that easy.

What could you win?

Well, one winner will get 15 minutes on the phone with Sandy during which she’ll give specific advice, tips and tricks. Then, Sandy will pick the 10 Lancôme products she thinks are perfect for that person and Lancome will have the products delivered right to the winner’s doorstep!

How cool is that?

Another great part?

The Sandy questions won’t go to waste. They’ll have Sandy answer them in a future post.

The only downfall here is that the contest ends Friday night.

So head on over to thelancomeblog.blogspot.com right now and ask away! If you win, be sure to come back here and let us know how it went!



Jennifer and Christine

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

drugstore.com and the mommy bag

If I was pregnant again or had a baby I would be all over this deal. I can't begin to tell you how many diaper bags I went through trying to find the perfect one. In the end I ended up buying larger handbags and throwing everything in there with no rhyme or reason. Off the top of my head I know there are at least 7 diaper bags/handbags I purchased. Leave it to beauty.com and drugstore.com to come up with the perfect solution. (and an eco-friendly one at that!)

Beauty.com's sister site, drugstore.com has teamed up with fashion designer and new mom, Jenni Kayne, who designed a chic, portable bag filled with eco-friendly products for mom and baby. The stylish Mommy Bag, available for a limited time exclusively at drugstore.com with a purchase of $75 or more, is a roomy canvas pouch that Jenni created as a compact yet practical alternative to a more traditional diaper bag.

Kayne, who welcomed her first child Tanner late last year, wanted to create something large enough to store products for a quick outing and small enough to stash tidily into a stroller or slouchy handbag. The washable, durable bag has elasticized pockets for bottles and snacks and offers a reliable way to keep baby travel basics separate and accessible. “When I was pregnant I was looking at diaper bags and thought there should be more options for busy new moms,” says Kayne. "Diaper bags can be so cumbersome and sometimes when you’re going out for a walk or need to run a quick errand with a baby, a giant bag doesn’t make anything easier.”

This functional, fashionable design by Jenni Kayne is one of many unique incentives for customers to save time and money by shopping on drugstore.com for their health, beauty and household products. Moms will receive the stylish Mommy Bag while taking advantage of the convenient bonus features on drugstore.com including automatic shipping and 5% back, helping them in managing a busy schedule and more time to enjoy with their children.

The Jenni Kayne Mommy Bag is valued at over $50 and comes filled with full and deluxe-sized samples for Mom and Baby, many from the drugstore.com Green and Natural store:

  • Philips Avent Silicone Orthodontic Pacifiers, 0-3 months
  • Philips Avent 4oz/125ml Bottle BPA-Free, 0-3 months
  • Burt’s Bees® Baby Bee® Buttermilk Lotion
  • Belly-bar™ Vanilla Dreams Milkshake
  • Belly-bar™ Baby Needs Chocolate Bar, Chocolate Toffee Crisp
  • Seventh Generation™ Diaper
  • California Baby® Calendula Cream
  • California Baby® Super Sensitive™ Shampoo & Bodywash
  • Earth’s Best TenderCare® Chlorine-Free Diapers & Wipes
  • Earth’s Best TenderCare® Chlorine-Free Baby Wipes Resealable Travel Pack
  • Susan Brown’s Baby™ Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer
So, if you are pregnant, have a baby or know someone who will soon, head on over to drugstore.com and pick one up!


Jennifer and Christine

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Organica Deluxe: A Little Bit of Eco-Luxury for Everyone




Wendy James and Jane Hunter created Organica Deluxe on the simple principle that they wanted a beautiful place to buy eco-friendly and organic for themselves and their friends. Recognizing that even organic companies miss the "green" when creating packages as well as the "gorgeous" (read: luxury), they wanted to share their knowledge, love and passion for gift-giving with real choices for giving organic.

"We love chocolates and wines and wanted others to know organic choices are amazing ... it is wonderful to bite into a cookie knowing it is delicious and made with the finest organic ingredients....we were tired of smelling flowers that were super-charged with pesticides...we wanted our babies to be clothed in pure organic cottons...we like companies who care about customers and put that caring into each gift package...we want to support eco-friendly artisans and farmers... we like to spoil ourselves and our friends with the extraordinary."

Oh my gosh, there is so much goodness in this place. A wide range of eco-friendly gift-giving offerings are available; from flowers, baby items, home decor, and leather journals to organic chocolate, ginger cookies and regional wines, you'll find a lovely gift for for every gift-giving occasion for yourself or someone dear in all price ranges. And every Organica Deluxe gift supports organic farmers, manufacturers and artisans around the world.



Organica Deluxe is a must-see site! For more goodness, please visit them online at OrganicaDeluxe.com ~ enjoy.

Discover La Mer's Transformative Infusions



The Infusions are La Mer's high-powered treatments that deliver transformative benefits. Each has its own area of expertise.

The Hydrating Infusion saturates the skin with hydration, smoothness and conditioning on demand. Dry complexions are replenished, feel soft and smooth to touch, awakening a healthy, resilient appearance. You can use it alone or in tandem with Creme de la Mer to boost its transformational benefits. $95

The Radiant Infusion delivers extreme radiance, clarity, pore-minimizing and tone on demand. Skin looks bright and refreshed. Pores that may have lost their integrity look tightened and refined. Use it alone or in synergy with The Lifting Face Serum to boost its remarkable brightening benefits. $95



Click the image above for more to take advantage of their offer and to learn more about La Mer's Transformational Infusion products. Or, visit them online at cremedelamer.com. The La Mer exclusive offer is available through 3/29/09.
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