Our fave BG with the chic black and white style — Janelle Monáe, has been named the newest face of CoverGirl! The singer, 26, joins the ranks of fellow BGs who have worked with the coveted cosmetics brand: Rihanna, Queen Latifah, Tyra Banks, and Brandy.

Known for her eclectic semi-formal fashions, the Kansas native hopes to encourage women to embrace their individuality and inner beauty.  “I believe it’s time that women truly owned their superpowers and used their beauty and strength to change the world around them,” Monáe said in a statement.

“Becoming a CoverGirl is truly an honor and a gift: it opens up a new platform for me to inspire women to feel stronger, braver and more beautiful inside and out,” she continued.

First shots of Monáe as a CoverGirl will debut in a 10-page ad in the September issue of Vogue.

Do you like Janelle Monáe’s classic black-tie style? 

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If you’re packing your bags for a end-of-summer getaway, be sure to toss in a pack of Cynthia Rowley’s for Band-Aid Beach Sport Kit bandages for those unexpected nicks. Perfect for water activities, these designer bandages aren’t intended to blend in with skin.

In fact, these bad boys boast a variety of bold, eye-catching colors and patterns that won’t peel off in the pool. 100% waterproof, they come in a clear plastic pouch that will also protect most cell phones from water-involved mishaps. Plus, there’s single-use Neosporin packets in each kit to prevent infections.

During my recent trip to D.C., these limited-edition bandages came in handy when my daughter fell and scraped her knee. I’ve also used them to cover up mosquito bites to prevent infection from excessive scratching. Whether you’re heading to a water park, beach or pool these cool bandages are a must-have for your bag because you never know when you’ll get a boo-boo!

Are you planning any end-of-summer getaways?

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When I interviewed Oprah Winfrey’s famed hairstylist, Andre Walker, a few of months ago, he told me that he gave the renowned former talk show host’s hair “a completely new look” for the makeover-themed issue of her eponymous magazine. And he was right!

Today it was revealed that Lady O is rocking an au naturel do on the September cover of “O, The Oprah Magazine.” She always has enviable locks, but this larger-than-life curly fro is simply fab.

I appreciate that she’s embraced her natural curls and felt they were worthy to be worn on the cover of a national glossy. Especially, since there aren’t many (I honestly can’t think of one!) mainstream mags where a woman of color is wearing her hair in its natural state.

Kudos to Oprah for showing us that beauty comes in all hair textures, features, and skin colors!

Do you love the Cover Girl’s curls? 

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Many of us enjoy putting on makeup to play up our best features, but taking it off is never fun. Thanks to a few handy makeup-removing wipes, the task of taking off our “faces” can be fast and easy!

Whether you need to dissolve waterproof mascara or lift away full-on foundation, these products can help you reclaim a clean and clear face.

Check out a few of my faves: 

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes should be a bathroom staple! The oil-free formula is gentle enough for everyday use and contains active naturals that leaves skin feeling fresh and balanced. I especially love that the wipes’ scent isn’t overwhelming, which is always a turn-off for me. Available here, $6.99

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My best-kept beauty secret (aside from all of my fave products) is going to be available to all of my fellow BGs! That’s right, my very own personal dermatologist, Dr. Dina Strachan, is the newest member of the CVS Pharmacy Beauty Board.

In celebration of joining the beauty advisory team,  she’ll host a live chat via Facebook tomorrow, July 26 at 12pm to 1:30pm EST. She’ll be on-hand to answer all skincare-related questions, from dandruff concerns to acne issues.

She has helped my skin through various ups and downs, including pregnancy (when my skin was at its worst!) and beyond. Her knowledge of ethnic skincare, attentiveness, and overall pleasant demeanor makes her one of the most sought after dermatologists in the New York city area.

For those who don’t live in the NYC area,  be sure to take advantage of having her expertise literally at your fingertips!

I don’t know about you, but I feel the most beautiful when my skin is clear and blemish-free! Dr. Strachan is the doctor who can help solve all of your skincare problems.

Be sure to RSVP here!

Do you have an excellent dermatologist? 

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