Beauty

Jane Iredale Launches New Skincare Supplements

May 8, 2017

Last week, I had the pleasure of celebrating my 37^th birthday at a swanky Manhattan hotel.

I was beyond thrilled to start my special day on a foliage-trimmed terrace overflowing with beautiful spring blooms and sunshine gloriously beaming through the glass-enclosed ceiling.

However, the lovely setting wasn’t reserved for me, but for one of my favorite makeup brands: jane iredale.

The premier mineral-based cosmetics line hosted a super chic garden party at the gorgeous Gramercy Park Hotel to showcase its upcoming offerings including five new skincare supplements launching this summer. Each of the supplements promises to treat common skin issues such as: excess oil, aging, dryness, and acne. In addition to highlighting the new products, the event also included a Q&A with founder/CEO Jane Iredale, live demos, and a generous shopping experience for us bloggers and editors.

Being surrounded by nature in the lush space served as the perfect backdrop to launch the natural beauty products developed for a radiant, healthy glow. While I haven’t tried the supplements just yet, I did pick out a cream blush called “Charisma” that has now secured a spot in my springtime beauty routine. The sheer berry hue gives just the right amount of flush to my cheeks, ideal for spring. Plus, unlike powder blushes – a brush isn’t required, which makes for easy on-the-go application. It’s become an instant-fave.

I’ve been using jane iredale products for nearly a decade now. In fact, it was one of the very first brands I partnered with when I launched my blog ten years ago. The quality is unmatched and the range of products for us BGs is outstanding. If you’re looking for makeup that is created to enhance, not mask skin, definitely give jane iredale a try—you won’t be disappointed.

What are your favorite springtime beauty products? Have you ever tried a skincare/beauty supplement?

Unilever Fools Beauty Lovers in Epic Campaign Prank

April 20, 2017

Throughout the years, I’ve witnessed some pretty clever hair and beauty campaigns, but none quite as clever as what the folks at Unilver pulled off yesterday.

Bloggers and editors were invited to an exclusive first-look at a new hair care brand, Evaus, claiming to bring “prestige” beauty and share-worthy strands to the masses. As a BG with natural hair, I was excited to find out what this new line would offer for those of us with curls, kinks and coils.

Held at one of my favorite hotels in the city, the Crosby Street Hotel—the chic, yet quirky event space was the perfect backdrop for the sleek, minimalistic packaging. Evaus’ modern aesthetic seemed ideal for millennial consumers who seek all-things cool.

After taking a whiff from one of the bottles, I was sold! I instantly fell in love with the delightful scent of the sweet, citrusy fruits that wafted from the container. Finally pulling myself away from the display samples, I along with the rest of those in attendance were whisked to a screening room where we were shown a video—but it wasn’t what many of us were expecting.

The clip showcased several bloggers and influencers gushing over Evaus and how its products had transformed their hair. From women with pin-straight hair to cropped natural ‘dos, all were impressed with how this new line made their hair look and feel. However, as the video progressed, it was revealed that “Evaus,” wasn’t a new innovative, high-end brand. In fact, it was a brand they were all familiar with all along.

Shockingly, we learned that “Evaus” was actually SUAVE (spelled backwards)! The popular drugstore hair care brand had gone undercover to prove the incredible power of label bias. The geniuses at Unilever wanted to drive home the point that price and labels do not have to be indicative of quality. Research shows that 7 in 10 women feel that premium or higher-priced brands and products are more trustworthy than value or lower-priced brands and products, which just isn’t true.

Suave Honey Infusion Collection is available at drugstores nationwide.

I’ve personally always loved Suave as a brand (drugstore beauty/hair care shopper here!) so I am not surprised by the results the bloggers received after using the brand.

This fun and super creative campaign is one of the most memorable activations I’ve ever seen. I’m proud to say that I’m a #SuaveBeliever!

Watch the brilliant video here:

Are you a victim of judging a product’s quality by its price? Do you use Suave? If so, what’s your favorite product and why?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Hair | Leave a Comment

Dove Continues Its Celebration of ‘Real Beauty’

March 28, 2017

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of previewing Dove’s latest installment of their longstanding, “Real Beauty” campaign. To celebrate the brand’s 60th anniversary and its inspiring message, Dove unveiled a stellar showcase of stunning photographs from renowned photographer Mario Testino.

Held at Affirmation Arts, the New York City-based gallery was filled with 30 gorgeous portraits of women from countries around the world in all their wondrous glory. Testino’s breathtaking photographs captured the true essence of each woman’s real individual beauty. I loved the fact that these women were all different ages and from a wide range of backgrounds. Seeing those striking images evoked a sense of pride and an unspoken bond with all of the women in attendance. It was a powerful afternoon.

Dove is a brand that I admire and respect for their unyielding commitment to celebrating women and inspiring them to embrace their bodies and celebrate their uniqueness. Not only do they promote confidence, their products actually help women feel their best.

I don’t know about you, but when I step outside of the shower and my skin is as soft as silk, I instantly feel good. Their new Deep Moisture Foaming Body Wash does just that. It’s been my go-to for the past few weeks because it’s light and frothy, but still manages to cleanse and moisturize just like its thicker, original body wash. Plus, the pump dispenser automatically makes it a winner—no more failed attempts at squeezing out that last bit! I also love how the scent lingers on my skin after showering. If only they made a body lotion to complement these offerings. (wink)

Dove Deep Moisture Foaming Body Wash available here, $6

If you’re on the hunt for a new body wash, definitely give this new lightweight foam a try.

Below, take a look at some pics from the showcase.

Me watching and listening to outtakes from the new campaign that was displayed in a theater-style area of the gallery.

When do you feel the most beautiful? What does #RealBeauty mean to you?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 1 Comment

3 Reasons Why You Need to Add Micellar Water to Your Skincare Routine

March 13, 2017

If you’re unfamiliar with micellar water, you’re not alone. I’ve found that outside of my fellow beauty editors and bloggers, not many women are familiar with the French toiletry staple.

I remember trying it a few years ago, but it didn’t make its way into my skincare routine—until now. This time I picked up a different brand, Garnier® SKINACTIVE™ Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Makeup Remover & Cleanser. The look and feel of the bottle just screamed purity. I don’t know about you, but there’s something incredibly satisfying and promising about a product that’s completely clear and has the word “water” in its name—I was sold.

After using it daily for a couple of weeks, I noticed that my skin looked clearer, not as oily and was virtually blemish free. I’m now convinced that this “miracle” water is responsible for my newfound fresh-faced look.

Garnier® SKINACTIVE™ Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Makeup Remover & Cleanser available here, $6.99.

Here are three reasons why you need to make space for this product on your bathroom shelf or toiletry bag.

Easily removes makeup in a single swipe. I’m a huge fan of makeup removing wipes, but most dry out my skin or irritate my eyes. Simply squirt a little micellar water on a cotton pad or ball and viola, stubborn mascara and makeup dissolves and disappears effortlessly.
Works well for oily skin. Since I have super oily skin and am prone to breakouts, I’m always worried that certain formulas will clog my pores. This gentle cleanser purifies my pores and provides a bit of moisture without making it greasy.
Cleanses without overly drying. Even though I have oily skin, sometimes cleansers can strip my skin of its natural oils leaving it tight, which irritates my skin leading to breakouts.

BONUS: It also serves as an awesome makeup brush cleanser!

If you’re looking for a simple cleanser that can remove makeup (even waterproof), won’t clog pores and cleanse without irritation, give micellar water a try!

Have you ever used micellar water? If so, what’s been your experience?

Category: Beauty | 1 Comment

IT Cosmetics’ New Serum Foundation Puts Your Best Face Forward

March 4, 2017

When it comes to foundation, I’m not the biggest fan. Sure, I have my fair share of blemishes that need to be masked, but concealer has always been my coverage of choice.

That all changed when IT Cosmetics launched its new Confidence in a Compact last month. See, I’ve been obsessed with the brand’s Confidence in a Jar moisturizer for a while now. So, when I heard that they were formulating a foundation that was infused with the moisturizing serum, I had to give it a try.

I’m always stressing the importance of packaging and the vital role it plays in winning me over. Well, IT Cosmetics always delivers in that department. The chic, luxe compact is impeccably designed in a shiny silver case that conveniently holds the makeup sponge on top of the foundation. Plus, unlike most foundations, you don’t have to worry about messy drips or spills because of its sold-to-serum formula.

Confidence in a Compact™ with SPF 50+ available here, $38 (sold separately).

The scent was the second thing I noticed, it had that same fresh lemony fragrance that I loved from the moisturizer. One of the reasons why I never got into foundations was because of the heavy, cake-y, overly made up look it typically creates, but this one goes on so translucently that it’s like a second skin. The virtually weightless, anti-aging formula can be applied with the accompanying sponge or brush for full coverage. Since I’m still not big on full-face makeup, I do like to blend it with my concealer using my fingertips.

Oh and it keeps skin hydrated without making it greasy or overly shiny (I have super oily skin so I swear by mattifying primers). Available in seven complementary shades, there are four that cater specifically to melanin-rich skin.

If you’re looking for a convenient foundation to even out your skin tone, definitely get with it – get it? “It” as in IT Cosmetics!

Do you wear foundation on a daily basis or simply for special occasions?

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

The Mane Choice Founder on Growing Her Hair Care Empire

February 27, 2017

They say necessity is the mother of all creations. For Courtney Adeleye, The Mane Choice founder and CEO, that statement rings true.

Unable to find adequate products to meet her hair care needs, the Alabama-based entrepreneur took matters into her own hands—literally— and concocted various products to treat and care for her hair. Through sharing the results of her homemade mixtures, Adeleye’s videos attracted a large following and gained the trust of countless viewers.

In less than four years, The Mane Choice, which offers a wide variety of multi-cultural hair care and bath and body products is sold in several major retailers including Target, Sally Beauty, CVS and most recently Walmart. In fact, the brand made history by being the first hair vitamin to be featured in the hair aisle (they’re usually reserved for the vitamin aisle). In 2016, the company garnered over 6.5 million dollars in sales, making Adeleye a self-made multi-millionaire seemingly overnight. But we all know that it takes a lot of hard work, determination and business skills to make it to this level.

Earlier this month, I caught up with the nurse-turned-entrepreneur to talk about her rise through the hair care ranks, advice for entrepreneurs and more.

CEO/Founder of The Mane Choice, Courtney Adeleye

Below, check out our Q&A:

BGG: Describe The Mane Choice customer.
Courtney Adeleye: Here at The Mane Choice, we pride ourselves on providing premium healthy hair care products at an affordable price. Our mission is to create the best solutions for all hair care challenges and total body needs in the beauty space. Like our comprehensive approach to hair and body care, our consumers are very knowledgeable about products and look for items that can remedy multiple hair care concerns. We are just happy to be their main choice for a solution.

BGG: Was working in the beauty/haircare industry a lifelong goal?
CA: No, I didn’t have an interest in working in the beauty industry. My background is in science–nursing, specifically. As a YouTube personality, I created a video showcasing my length and shared my deep conditioner recipe, which was partially responsible for my length. I received SO MANY responses and feedback suggesting that I sell my deep conditioner. I had no intentions of doing that, but long story short, I eventually did. One order became two, three, and so on…

BGG: Did you take any supplementary business courses as a result of pursuing entrepreneurship?
CA: No, I did not formally take any business courses. However, I did my homework on the industry and took what I learned from my nursing background to get to where I am today.

BGG: Did you have mentors in the business prior to launching The Mane Choice? If so, how has their mentorship impacted your business?
CA: Other than past experiences, working closely to the owner/CEO at my former jobs and studying how other business owners conducted business, I didn’t have any mentors prior to launching mine. In my experience, my faith and family were two of the biggest impactors on my business. I have been blessed with a powerful support system and a committed team at The Mane Choice. It becomes easier when people support and buy into your vision. I am especially thankful.

BGG: What has been your biggest challenge as a business owner?
CA: I strive to commit to having a positive outlook on life and my company, and focus all of my energy on new ways to best serve The Mane Choice customers. However, doubt from others, not myself, can often try to negatively impact how you view your success and what you’re striving towards.

BGG: What advice would you give a fellow entrepreneur who suffers from self-doubt?
CA: If there is someone who feels doubted, I would tell them to be so good that they can’t ignore you! I think it’s especially important to focus on and hone your strengths and abilities. Always strive to be the best, the hardest working, and the most knowledgeable. It’s hard to ignore value. I would also remind he or she that in times where there isn’t a way that there is always the option to make one. I think the evidence of this is shown through the multitude of girl [and men] bosses around the world.

BGG:What advice do you have for women, particularly women of color, who want to pursue a career in the beauty/haircare industry?
CA: My advice would be to strive to be the best at what you do. Do your research and make sure the presentation is just as great, or better than the product or service that you offer.

BGG: Is there any significance behind “purple” being incorporated into your brand or is it simply just a design choice?
CA: We chose purple because it is a regal/royal color. Royalty is what our brand embodies. Royalty depicts the consumers we represent.

BGG: What’s the single most important thing a woman can do to promote healthy hair growth?CA: Consistency is key. Developing a healthy hair growth regimen is paramount to a successful hair growth journey. Using quality products made with quality ingredients, such as The Mane Choice, and adopting great hair care practices will get you to your goals in no time!

BGG: Outside of the hair vitamin, what’s your most popular product? Why do you think it’s a top seller?
CA: Our 3-in-1 is next in line. There’s no other product on the market like it. It’s co-wash and detangler that you can leave-in. Talk about a game changer!

BGG: What makes the Mane Choice different from similar products on the market?
CA: As many may or may not know, my husband is a physician and I am a registered nurse. Together, our backgrounds in science have helped us to formulate our products based on extensive research, for all hair types and textures by infusing each product with vitamins, Biotin, and nutrients. We have successfully developed a comprehensive array of products that can cater to a multi-cultural demographic.

BGG: Describe the most rewarding aspect of your career thus far.
CA: The most rewarding aspect of my career and leader of my company is knowing that The Mane Choice has made such and impact in the lives of others! That impact has created such a demand for our products that we’re now in over 16,000 stores.

BGG: What’s next for The Mane Choice?
CA: You’ll just have to stay tuned. Trust me!

Have you ever used The Mane Choice? If so, what is your favorite product(s) and why?

Category: Beauty, Featured, Features, Interviews | Leave a Comment

jane iredale’s New Eyeliners Are In a League of Their Own

February 1, 2017

As a teen, beautifying my peepers was all about swiping on basic eyeliner pencils from the local beauty supply store. Perfecting my lash line came with much practice: shaky hands and countless crooked strokes, but it’s a skill that I eventually mastered.

While my love for eyeliner hasn’t changed, my penchant for quality has. As a working mom on the go, I need eyeliner that stays put and offers that deep, dark hue that I crave.

Enter: jane iredale’s new Mystikol® eyeliners. Not only do these uniquely designed pots of pigmented goodness provide a rich color, they go on seamlessly. Admittedly, I’m an application pro now, but the tiny brush affixed to the top makes applying simple for even the most amateur eyeliner fans.

jane iredale Mystikol® eyeliners available here, $24 each

With a slight dip into the jar, the micro bristles are instantly covered in the powder-cream formula. With the precision and staying power of a liquid liner, it glides on effortlessly and flawlessly defines my eyes.

So far, I’ve only tried the jet black shade, but can’t wait to give the other three colors a go too. The royal purple shade will add an unexpected pop of color perfect for spring.

What’s your go-to eyeliner? Is it liquid, pencil or gel?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 1 Comment