Thursday, April 29, 2010

Makeup Shelf Life

Some recommendations on when to toss common beauty products via PARADE magazine:

MAKEUP

Foundation, lipstick, cream blush and cream eye shadow
4-6 months

Gel or liquid mascara and eyeliner
3-4 months

Eyeliner, brow pencils and lip pencils
8-12 months

Lip gloss
3 months

Powder blush, eye shadow and foundations
6 months

Nail polish
8-12 months

Primers, eye firmers, barrier moisturizers and other silicone-based products
12 months

*Wash makeup brushes weekly in warm water with gel cleanser and throwing away sponge applicators on a weekly basis.

SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Creamy products like cleansers, masques and moisturizers and eye creams
4-6 months

Gel products like cleansers, masques, acne treatments and eye gels
6 months

Water based toners (*Keep in the refrigerator for added shelf life)
4-6 months

Creamy or gel scrubs and shower gels
4 months

Serums and boosters
4-6 months

Sunscreens
Expiration date is typically around two years, but its best to replace sunscreen every year.

For the entire article, click here!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Have Mercy.....

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG

Opal wedge leather sandals

$295

Sunday, April 25, 2010

New Find: Tree Hut Brazilian Nut Shea Sugar Body Scrub

If you want to pamper your skin on a budget then this body scrub is pretty good when it comes to exfoliating and moisturizing your skin . It has a pleasant scent and really left my skin smooth after using it. I first saw it Walmart then at Ulta (definitely cheaper at Walmart though). It comes in an 18 oz jar which is pretty generous in relation to the price. Looking forward to trying some of their body butters in their collection too.

Product Description: Delight your senses as you smooth your skin with this rich, exfoliating sugar body scrub. Made with delectable Brazilian nut oil and enriched with vitamin C and natural oils to soften.

Key Ingredients:

Brazil Nut Oil

Safflower Seed Oil

Evening Primrose Oil

Price: ~ $6

Tree Hut is best known for having perfected the art of using Certified Organic Shea in each product [they] make.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Max & Chloe

Really loving these. I'd rock them with a chic tunic, neutral shorts, and gladiator sandals.

{1,2}

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Would you accessorize your private part?

Yes, you read that right. Apparently it's a hot new trend. You can actually accessorize your "jewels" with crystals in the design of your choice. For those of you who need a visual - sorry you won't get any here but you can search Mr. Google for images. Apparently - vajazzling or bedazzing the vagina all started with Jennifer Love Hewitt's precious jewels. Check out the video specifically the 2:40 mark where she talks about it.

For those of you curious to see the application process check out the following link here.

So will you/would you Vejazzle?

Monday, April 19, 2010

Burt's Bees Avocado Butter Pre-Shampoo Hair Treatment

I always give myself a hair treatment prior to shampooing my hair. A pre poo is what it's referred to on the various hair forums where I've lurked for some time. Normally, I rotate my prepoo treatments amongst: amla oil, rosemary oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, the list goes on....

But, recently, I picked up Burt's Bees Avocade Butter Pre-Shampoo Hair Treamtment; which I had been eyeing for sometime. Honestly, I don't know what took me so long to buy it but I'm glad I eventually did because it is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G (in my opinion of course :) LIke I give it 5 stars, two thumbs up, and a standing ovation.

So where do I start with explaining why I love with this product?

Let's start with the main ingredients: avocado oil and olive oil. Those two oils themselves are responsible for penetrating the hair shaft and replenishing moisture to the scalp and length of hair.

Then there's rosemary, almond oil, and nettle extract that add a shine to the hair. I love rosemary oil and actually wrote about it here.

Full ingredient list: glycerin, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, avena sativa (oat) kernel protein, persea gratissima (avocado) oil, prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, lanolin, tocopherol, urtica dioica (nettle) leaf powder, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) powder, chlorophyll, fragrance

So here's how I used it: I dampened my hair with water and applied the treatment throughtout my hair.

The scent is really nice, very citrusy which I like. Then I placed a plastic cap on my head and slept with the treatment on my hair. The instructions say to leave it on for 5-20 minutes but I left mine overnight for the maximum moisture benefit.

The next morning I washed it out and my hair felt soft, and I didn't have as much shedding when detangling my hair prior to the shampoo or afterward.

This product is specifically geared to treat damaged and/or dry hair so if you've experienced any of those two like I have you may want to add this to your hair product arsenal.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

The Beauty of Science or the Science of Beauty

An interesting UK study finds persons of Mixed Race "more attractive", read it here:

ScienceDaily (Apr. 14, 2010) — In the largest study of its kind Dr Michael Lewis of Cardiff University's School of Psychology, collected a random sample of 1205 black, white, and mixed-race faces.
Each face was then rated for their perceived attractiveness to others -- with mixed-race faces, on average, being perceived as being more attractive.

Dr Lewis, who will present his findings to the British Psychological Society's annual meeting (April 14) said: "Previous, small scale, studies have suggested that people of mixed race are perceived as being more attractive than non-mixed-race people. This study was an attempt to put this to the wider test.

"A random sample of black, white, and mixed-race faces was collected and rated for their perceived attractiveness. There was a small but highly significant effect, with mixed-race faces, on average, being perceived as more attractive."

The study could also have wider implications than just attractiveness.

First established by Darwin in 1876, heterosis (or hybrid vigour) is a biological phenomenon that predicts that cross-breeding leads to offspring that are genetically fitter than their parents.

As heterosis is considered to be a universal biological effect, it is possible that humans are also subject to its influence and helps explain why mixed-race people appear more attractive.

Dr Lewis added: "The results appear to confirm that people whose genetic backgrounds are more diverse are, on average, perceived as more attractive than those whose backgrounds are less diverse. This can be taken as evidence for heterosis among human population groups.

"There is evidence, albeit anecdotal, that the impact of heterosis goes beyond just attractiveness. This comes from the observation that, although mixed-race people make up a small proportion of the population, they are over-represented at the top level of a number of meritocratic professions like acting with Halle Berry, Formula 1 racing with Lewis Hamilton; and, of course, politics with Barack Obama."

(from Science Daily)

What are your thoughts? Any mixed feelings?

Friday, April 16, 2010

Why You Should Adore Jessie

Some of you may be wondering who is Jessie and why she is to be adored. Well, allow me to introduce you to Jessie of Adore Daily. She's a talented stylist, photographer, singer, interior designer, and blogger. I had an opportunity to find out more of her creative mind, her style, her hair and more. So without further a due .... Miss Jessie

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from? What's your occupation?

I am originally from Germany, the beautiful city of Wiesbaden to be exact. Upon moving stateside I was brought up between NYC and Maryland.
Your observation is correct on all counts concerning what I do for a living, however, I have recently decided to focus on Interior Design mainly. I will continue in various Fashion endeavors... design specifically.

Your personal style and blog are to be admired, in your own words how would you describe both?

Random. Completely random, lol. They are both platforms on which I am able to display the things that interest me... and my interests are such a broad spectrum that the best way to describe it is random. Thank you so much for appreciating it.

Who are some of your inspirations when it comes to your personal style?

My Grandmother and her legacy probably play the biggest role in my personal style. She is the illustration of a strong, determined and highly creative woman. My family hails from Belize, a place that is only accessing mainstream media in recent years. Back when she was coming up there weren't commercial and social influences, yet she is known for her avant garde wardrobe creations for both her and her 5 daughters. Who she was is constant inspiration to make something out of nothing, and that being or feeling fabulous isn't dependent upon an overflowing bank account and exorbitant spending.

I also feel that by default, my style is somewhat of a merger between influences from Germany (or Europe in general) and Belize. Comfortable and easy but structural.

When it comes to style & design, have you always been a creative person?

I have always been tactile in general, and my parents have always encouraged me to bring my imagination to life... so I guess creative would be the word for that. My mother taught me to sew at an early age, and I taught myself pattern-making, so I've been making clothes for about as long as I can remember.

5 wardrobe essentials and/or accessories a woman should have in her closet.

1. The perfect pair of Levi's

2. The perfect Motorcycle jacket

3. An impeccably tailored trench

4. A Jersey wrap dress

5. A great pair statement shoes

*Bonus*

6. Gaudy Jewelry [preferably animal inspired] ;)

You have a wonderful head of hair. What are some of your staple hair products that you use to maintain your tresses?

Thank you! I get this question a lot, and the answer tends to disappoint people because my hair regimen isn't as involved as people expect. For cleansing I alternate between an Italian brand called Alter Ego and Herbal Essence (Hello Hydration and Long Term Relationship). I deep condition with Alter Ego's Garlic based conditioner. For everyday moisturizing I literally use pure olive oil or olive oil based products. When My hair is curly, I apply a leave in conditioner called Parnevu every other day.

Thoughts on budget friendly style tips.

THRIFTING! ...some call me an addict...which may be true, but the rewards are great both visually and economically (and you're technically going green). I prefer suburban, unassuming stores as opposed to the over-priced, pretentious stores often found in major cities. Keep your mind open to the possibilities that come with alterations!

Concentrate on fit as opposed to scouring for trends when shopping in general. How clothes translate of your body determine style, not labels or what is placed on the aliens we refer to as models.

Are you infatuated with Jessie yet :} for more of her check out AdoreDaily.

Coming soon....Jessie on decorating your home on a dime

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

L'Oreal Serie Nature Line

You all know or have heard of the L'Oreal brand right? It's pretty much the leading beauty company in America. After college, I wanted to work for them so badly - you have no idea. The company had a research facility in New Jersey a few towns over from where I grew up. I applied to maybe half a dozen positions or more there, forwarded my resume to someone I knew who knew someone that worked there - yeah I was so desperate. I even took a seasonal job at the Lancome makeup counter at the mall just so I could become familiar with one of their brands. I honestly didn't care in what capacity I worked for them (though my undergrad degree is in Finance) I just wanted to be a part of their empire. To make a long story short, I never ended up working for them. Sad, I know :( But, I said all that to say (LOL) I came across an ad of theirs in a magazine showcasing some of their new professional products and it rekindled the memories of how I would stalk their website, hence the aforementioned commentary. :)

Peep the new Natural products from their Professionel line:

Abondance de Cacao Shampoo: Silicone-free. 100% natural color / no artificial color.

Masque Cacao: 100% natural color / no artificial color.

Key Ingredient: cacao extract, renowned for its revitalizing properties, gives body and lightness to fine hair.

Description: These products provide a sensory experience with a delicious fragrance and texture that leaves hair soft and boosted with vitality. The caramel-based colorant provides a visual hint to the key ingredients of the range.

Expected Result:
— Hair is invigorated and full of body
— Hair is left light and soft without being weighed down

Douceur d’Huiles Shampoo: Paraben-free. Silicone-free. 100% natural color / no artificial color. 100% natural fragrance / no synthetic fragrance. Shampoo bottle is made of 100% recycled PET plastic.

Masque aux Huiles: Paraben-free. Silicone-free. 100% natural color / no artificial color. 100% natural fragrance / no synthetic fragrance.

Key Ingredient: bran oil softens and tames rebellious, unruly hair while olive oil provides deep nourishment.

Description: These products contain a perfect balance of active oils that replenish hair’s natural suppleness and shine while helping to provide discipline and smoothness.

Expected Result:

— Hair is nourished and shiny

— Hair is smooth, supple and controlled

Huile Richesse: Paraben-free. Silicone-free. 100% natural fragrance / no synthetic fragrance.

Key Ingredient: soy oil, derived from natural soy bean plants, is rich in proteins that deliver deep nourishment and softness to dry hair.

Description: An in-salon oil treatment that is applied to dry hair before shampoo, Huile Richesse restores the lipid content of the hair fiber and leaves it shiny and silky.

Expected Result:
— Hair is protected from dryness
— Hair is soft and shiny

Yep, all I need now is to stop salivating and find out where I can get my hands on these. :)

Friday, April 9, 2010

Facials at Massage Envy

So you all know from this post, that Spa Week starts next week. Hope you all have your appointments set! Speaking of spas & pampering Massage Envy, a massage therapy clinic that offers massages and membership packages is now offering facials. Yep, I'm super excited to find out about this because they are offering four types of facials by a high-end skincare brand, Murad. I've seen Murad product lines at Sephora & Ulta, and their price range is definitely up there. So, for them to partner up with Massage Envy & offer facials at $49 seems to be a big deal. The 4 types of facials that will be offered are:

-- AHA Rapid Exfoliator Anti-Aging Facial, which reveals smoother, vibrant, younger-looking skin

-- Sensitive Skin Facial, which gently repairs and balances skin that is easily irritated or sensitive

-- Environmental Shield Vitamin C Infusion Facial, which reverses signs of aging due to sunlight, smog, pollution and stress

-- Clarifying Enzyme Acne Facial, which improves skin clarity, reduces blemishes and soothes inflammation.

I've visited Massage Envy for the first time last year so I think I'll try the Acne facial in a few weeks and report back with the details.

Have you been to Massage Envy? Will you try their new facials?

Thursday, April 8, 2010

"We should cherish every moment like it’s the last"

Those are the words from Janet Jackson's new song Nothing - off the "Why Did I Get Married Too" soundtrack. I really love the simplicity of this video and I also love the lyrics. Check it out.

What do you think? Are you feeling the song/video?

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

The Beauty of Giving Back: The Sister Soldier Project

I came across an article about The Sister Soldier Project, an organization dedicated to sending hair care products to female military personnel of color and thought to myself what a great idea. Honestly, us women take our hair care very seriously. However, I never thought of the challenges that these women in the armed forces faced in trying to obtain ethnic hair products to maintain their hair.

{photo source: veteransfocus.org}

The Sister Soldiers Project was born out of the desire to send “care packages” to the brave women serving our nation, containing various ethnic personal care products so important to their quality of life, products unavailable to them through normal channels, thus giving them at least a small taste of their “normal” lives back home.

For more information about the website: www.sistersoldierproject.com

Entrepreneurs Can Change the World

For those of you (like myself) that find inspiration in words, here you go:

(via makeundermylife)

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

J/A/S/O/N TEA TREE OIL

Ever get those horrible pimples that show up at the most inopportune time? Noramlly, they are huge and appear either on your foreahead, your cheek, or somewhere totally obvious. I thought I was done with that acne phase but apparently not. I get those pesky pimples at least once a month. When I went to have my eyebrows threaded almost two weeks ago, I had about four of them on the locations I mentioned. I had tried a few things to get rid of them like, putting a dab of toothpaste on them (I was desparate) and putting a hot towel on them to shrink them. The latter actually worked better than the former. Anyway, the Indian lady that worked on my eyebrows suggested I use tea tree oil. She was kind enough to actually apply some right then and there. I guess they were a distraction for her as well. LOL. Anyway, I went to my local pharmacy and purchased the following:

J/A/S/O/N TEA TREE OIL

There are actually many benefits of using tea tree oil. But, I'm using it specifically to treat blemishes. At night, I dab a cotton swab into the bottle, then I apply it onto the pimples, and in the morning I wash my face with my normal cleanser. It works really well, I wish I had started using it sooner.

Tea Tree Oil happens to be a great anti-bacterial natural substance. When applied on acne, tea tree oil helps the immune system to kill the bacteria and consequently reduce the inflammation.

Make sure to take caution when using certain oils, this oil is one of them. As always consult with your doctor prior to using certain essential oils if you're pregnant, in doubt, or taking certain medications.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Why Did I Get Married Too

Will you see it? Have you seen it? What were your thoughts?

Friday, April 2, 2010

Deep Conditioning Treatment

I experimented with a deep conditioning mixture last week and I was quite pleased with it. I used coconut cream, honey, and a protein conditioner.

The mix was as follows:

coconut cream - approx 1/4 cup
honey - 1 tablespoon
Queen Helen's cholesterol - 2 tablespoons

There was no rhyme or reason to this mix although I have been wanting to try honey as part of a hair treatment. Honey (from what I've learned) is a humectant, which basically means it holds on to water molecules which in terms of this use results in shine as well as hair appearing softer. Aside from that honey also has antibacterial, anti fungal, and antioxidant properties - which can't hurt. ;)

The coconut cream I had in my fridge from my previous use, however there are benefits to coconut cream. If you've ever used coconut oil in your hair you know the benefits: nourished & conditioned hair, stimulates hair growth, contains light proteins to strengthen damaged hair , etc. The main difference between the cream vs the oil is the consistency. The cream tends to me a bit more viscous or solid & thicker vs the oil which is more liquid.

Lastly, Queen Helen's Cholesterol Hair Conditioning Cream - this product has been around for Lord knows how long but it's an inexpensive conditioner that can be used for its stated purpose as well as mixing other oils with.

Overall Experience - the most noticeable results after deep conditioning with this mix for about 30 min and then rinsing out was - easy to comb though hair as well as stronger hair. My hair definitely felt like it had gotten a dose of fortified vitamins and minerals. I used this treatment twice within the week.

Drawback - my mix was a bit runny. I think I used too much coconut cream. Next time I'll use less so that the mixture is more of a paste. Oh and I could taste the honey while I rinsed out my hair. I guess that's not too bad. :) This particular brand of honey by Dabur is very rich.

If you have some hair care recipes to share, do let me know. I would love to try. :)

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Eyebrow Threading

Last week I got my eyebrows threaded for the first time. Honestly, I was apprehensive at first because I thought it would be painful. I mean waxing and/or tweezing eyebrows to me is painful but I would still get it done because - well that was the only option I had at the time (or so I thought). Anyway, one of my girlfriend's eyebrows always look great and she suggested that I should just go ahead and get my brows threaded because in her opinion the hair doesn't grow back as quickly when threading is done. So, I went and got it done and to my surprise the process was very simple and virtually painless. There was no wax, no tweezers, no getting burned, no crooked eyebrows, etc. I was kind of surprised at the simplicity of it all and I'm totally happy with the results.

Here are some advantages of eyebrow threading in my opinion:

not messy
more precise shape
no burning from hot wax
little to no pain

Which method do you prefer waxing or threading? Why?

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