Beauty News

Get the Perfect Red Lip Now: Skinn Hollywood Red Lip Palette

August 29, 2013

With fall right around the corner, it’s time to switch up your beauty routine!

Rocking a red lip color is a simple yet dramatic way to embrace the new season. I’ve tried countless scarlet shades, but have yet to find the perfect color that truly complements my skin tone. Not even the popular BG fave ‘Ruby Woo‘ by MAC looks good on me.

That’s why I’m excited to share with you guys a lip palette by Skinn Cosmetics that does the job. Created by professional makeup artist Dimitri James, the Hollywood Red Lip Palette includes a variety of six red shades that can be worn alone or blended into a custom crimson. With colors ranging from strawberry pink to a juicy reddish grape, you’re bound to find or create a red that’s right for you.

The only downside to this palette is that it doesn’t provide a single matte finish that’s all the rage this season. Other than that one hiccup, it’s a must-buy for fall.

Hollywood Red Lip Palette available here, $22.50

Do you have a hard time finding the perfect red lip shade? If not, what’s your favorite shade/brand?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured | 1 Comment

Hair Must-Have: Carol’s Daughter’s NEW Monoi Anti-Breakage Spray!

August 22, 2013

Since I’ll be a mom of two soon, I’ve been making it my priority to attend more beauty and style events while I still can.

Last week, I had the pleasure of spending the evening with the lovely Lisa Price, founder of Carol’s Daughter. About 15 of us writers/bloggers were treated to a fun mixology presentation (of course I couldn’t indulge!) of what I’m sure were delicious libations from mixologist Benjamin Wood at Distilled (they have some of the best wings I’ve ever had!!) here in New York.

Prior to sipping signature cocktails (mocktails for me) and noshing on scrumptious bites, Lisa told us about her newest product: Monoi Anti-Breakage Spray.

Monoi Repairing Anti-Breakage Spray available here, $24

She informed us that this particular spray sold over 700 units in a matter of minutes during one of her recent appearances on QVC, and after trying it myself I know why. The lightweight elixir comprised of a recipe that requires soaking of gardenias combined with coconut oil and wheat protein detangles hair gently and efficiently. Due to its special formula, you have to shake well in order to activate the natural ingredients. It’s an ideal leave-in conditioner because it doesn’t stop protecting and strengthening your strands.

Because I’m expecting, my hair doesn’t shed as much, but I did notice that after using it I didn’t have as much hair loss after washing. I’m excited to see how it works once my hormones go back to normal because I suffer from intense tangles and shedding.

If your hair is like most women’s while wet, this is a must-have product to tackle tangles and prevent breakage. Once again, Carol’s Daughter addresses our hair needs!

What products do you use for detangling?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Carol's Daughter, Featured | Leave a Comment

Go “Nuts” for The Body Shop’s Brazil Nut Body Care Line

August 5, 2013

I don’t know about you, but I’m quite a nutty girl!

I’ve always been a lover of a nutty ice creams, sweet treats or a simple handful of mixed nuts as a snack. Basically, anything with nuts as a main ingredient count me in. And that apparently applies to body butters and shower gels too!

The Body Shop has a new and improved line of Brazil nut-infused body care products that is ahh-mazing! Brazils are one of my favorite nuts so I was interested in seeing how they would translate into a luxe lotion or body wash. The alluring sweet and nutty scent caresses the senses like only The Body Shop products can. The soap-free shower cream soothes and cleanses the skin with a rich lather that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready for the day. The body butter soaks into skin like a richer and more moisturizing shea butter. While the 3-in-1 beautifying oil provides skin with a light sheen that isn’t too oily but keeps skin glowing and moisturized for hours! I haven’t quite figured out how it can be used for the face, but a few drops does wonders for my super dry hair. Plus, all of the products are environmentally friendly and are made with Community Fair Trade Brazil nut oil from nuts hand-harvested in Peru.

If you’re looking to take a break from the usual floral and fruity scents that most body care companies offer, opt for this nutty line of products!

Brazil Nut Body Butter available here, $20

Brazil Nut Shower Cream available here, $8

Brazil Nut Beautifying Oil available here, $14

Are you a fan of nut-infused products or do you prefer to EAT your nuts?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Caudalíe’s Premier Cru ‘The Cream’: The Skincare Product That Every Woman Should Try

February 18, 2013

Since your sweetheart probably spoiled you with chocolates and roses last week , why not treat yourself to luxe gift just because?

Forget shoes and handbags. Instead, invest in putting your best face forward by pampering your skin with, “The Cream,” the newest addition to the luxurious, all-natural anti-aging Caudalíe Premier Cru collection.

I’ve covered beauty for years and have tried countless creams and moisturizers that promise to deliver results, but none have come close to what I’ve experienced with this product.

About two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of learning about the anti-aging skincare line and received a mini-facial at the popular French brand’s spa at The Plaza Hotel here in New York. While speaking with the co-founder, Bertrande Thomas, I learned that this innovative, skin-firming cream is a result of an exclusive blend of the brand’s three signature patents at their highest concentration. In addition, it’s infused with the powerful anti-oxidant ingredient—grapeseed oil, as well as apricot butters and sesame oils to create a vibrant, renewed appearance.

The Plaza Hotel

After using it for only a little over a week, my skin has already undergone a huge transformation. For months my skin has been dry and flaky due to the cold winds, but now it’s luminous and softer than ever. I typically use drugstore brands and a few higher end moisturizers from time to time, but I have never seen instant improvements like I have with Premier Cru. My face is remarkably smooth, even-toned and simply radiant. Although, it comes with a pretty hefty price tag, it’s worth every penny!

It’s also the first luxurious skincare product that I’ve come across that’s also eco-friendly, but doesn’t compromise its exclusivity or style when it comes to packaging.

Caudalíe Premier Cru is available here; $155 (50ml)

If you’re interested in learning more about Caudalíe products and you’re in the NYC area, be sure to check out the following events:

WHAT: An exclusive Premier Cru preview event. Be one of the first to experience the ultimate in anti-aging at our new NYC boutique. Experience a free Premier Cru facial, meet the founders, enjoy a glass of wine from the family vineyard and receive samples of the new products.

WHERE: Caudalíe Boutiques at Lexington Avenue (1031 Lexington Avenue at 74th St. ) and Bleecker Street (315 Bleecker Street at Grove St.)

WHEN: Lexington – Wednesday, February 20th and Thursday, February 21st
Bleecker – Friday, February 22nd and Saturday, February 23rd

HOW: Space is limited. To register, please visit www.caudalie.com/premiercru. 21 and older only.

Again, if you’re on the market for a luxe moisturizer that actually works, definitely check out this amazing anti-anging cream!

*Full disclosure: I was given this product free of charge for review.

What’s your favorite luxe beauty product?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | Leave a Comment

BEAUTY News: Sam Fine Launches Debut Makeup Collection with Fashion Fair

February 7, 2013

Beauty buffs have been anticipating the arrival of Sam Fine’s collaboration with Fashion Fair for a while, and now the wait is finally over!

The two beauty poewrhouses have joined forces to create a luxe line of cosmetics created with us BGs in mind. What could be better: a premier celebrity makeup artist partnering with the pioneer in makeup for women of color? Well, last week I had the pleasure of attending a press event showcasing the Sam Fine for Fashion Fair collection and I’m telling you that it doesn’t get any better than this.

Recently appointed Fashion Fair’s Creative Director of Makeup, Fine brings his innovative, creative and contemporary flair to the historical brand.

Sam Fine “working his magic”on a model.

Although this is Fine’s debut makeup line, his knowledge and years of experience working with cosmetics shows. Inspired by his international travels, the incredibly rich, pigmented collection is beyond striking. I was impressed, but not surprised by the quality of the products, which include: Eight Supreme Lip Color Shades ($22; 8 shades), Two Supreme Eye Color Quads ($38) and Supreme Shine Lip Gloss ($20; one shade). For over a decade, Fine has painted some of the most famous faces in entertainment, while Fashion Fair has mastered the cosmetics business for half a century—that’s bound to be a recipe for success!

The entire collection can be purchased here; $272. Products are sold separately at Macy’s, Dillards and Lord & Taylor.

Although I experimented with various lipstick shades from the line, African Violet is my absolute favorite. The semi-matte deep plum/burgundy shade goes on effortlessly and feels weightless. It provides just a bit of shine to create a vampy look without looking greasy.

Me wearing the ‘African Violet’ lip color.

A few of my other faves (from top): Dynasty Red, Pink Parfait and Moroccan Spice

I haven’t tried the quad shadows yet, but the colors are just as vibrant as the lipsticks. If you’re on the hunt for a collection that complements women of color, these products are must-haves!

For Sam’s lip tips, check out the video below:

Are you excited about this collection? Are you a fan of Sam Fine’s work?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured, Features | 1 Comment

Vanessa Williams Expands ‘ReVitalistic’ Skincare Line

January 25, 2013

Is there anything that Vanessa Williams can’t do?

The stunning multi-talented entertainer, author and mother of four, now has her own anti-aging skincare line. Launched last year, ReVitalistic Skincare, is Williams’ latest endeavor in the cosmetics world. The former Miss America, 49, who has always been vocal about her personal struggle with skin problems, previously worked with Proactive (the popular acne-fighting formula), but is now stepping out on her own.

Designed and developed by Williams, the expanding ginger-scented collection includes premium creams, serums and moisturizers. Her latest release, Three-Piece Anti-Aging System ($68), includes the top-selling Re-Start Skin Serum, along with two new products: Re-Focus Firming Eye Serum and Re-Quench Anti-Age Defense Intensive Moisture Treatment. While there are so many celebrity skincare products on the market, Williams is confident that she has the right stuff.

“With my ReVitalistic Skincare Anti-Aging System, you are able to maintain an effortless and efficient three-step anti-aging regimen at an incredible price,” Williams says in a release. “Once you try my most basic regimen, which is effective and easy to use, you will notice how much better your skin will look and feel.”

Available at www.QVC.com

Although I haven’t tried any of her products, I’m looking forward to catching Williams on QVC tonight to learn more! Be sure to tune in to QVC’s “Friday Night Beauty” tonight 11pm (EST) if you want to buy or learn more about ReVitalistic Skincare products.

Would you check out her products?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 2 Comments

Get the Look: Beyoncé’s Makeup at the 2013 Presidential Inauguration

January 22, 2013

Beyoncé always looks stunning, but the R&B and pop superstar amped up her natural beauty for her performance of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” for the 2013 Inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Dressed in a gorgeous Emilio Pucci gown and emerald Lorraine Schwartz earrings, celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal complemented Beyoncé’s eye-catching ensemble with natural-looking makeup for the historic day.

Beyoncé and Mally Roncal

Check out Mally’s tips and tricks to recreate the look using products from her Mally Beauty makeup line:

· To first set the skin, apply my Perfect Prep Poreless Primer all over the face and my Cancellation Concealer directly underneath the eyes.

· To achieve natural-looking coverage, first, apply my Ultimate Performance Liquid Foundation. Next, add a sweep of my NEW Diamond Unpowder that will illuminate the skin followed by brushing on my Effortless Airbrush Highlighter and Blush Duo to the cheeks in order to provide a soft, radiant glow to the skin.

· To achieve a rich, smokey eye – try my Evercolor Shadow Stick in Saddle Shimmer. Apply this all over the eyelid and underneath as well. Next, select a few shades from the Mally Beauty In the Buff Palette and sweep that onto the eyelids. Finish the look by applying a small amount of my Age Rebel Shadow Stick in Chocolate Diamond on the bottom lid right under your eyelashes to open up the eye followed by using my Lightwand Eyebrightener to the inner corners to instantly brighten this area. Lastly, to achieve this bold eyeliner at-home, try using the Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Eyeliner in Midnight, layered with the Ultimate Performance Ink Eyeliner (which is exclusive to QVC.com).

· Complement this confident eye by pairing it with a mascara that will enhance the overall look – such as the Mally Beauty Volumizing Mascara and/or my NEW Instant Impact Mascara. To create glossy, Beyoncé worthy lips try my High Shine Lip Gloss in Mally’s Look or Mally’s Baby.

· And last but not least, before you leave the house, apply the Mally Beauty Face Defender to lock your makeup in place and Perfect Prep Hydrating Under Eye Brightener to make the eyes pop!

All of the products mentioned can be purchased at QVC.com and MallyBeauty.com!

Check out Beyonce’s performance below: