All For The Kids

The orange carpet was all a buzz this past weekend as the stars turned out for Nickelodeon's Annual Kids Choice Awards Saturday night. Miley Cyrus showed up with her peace sign in tow, Rihanna and Chris Brown once again denied that they are actually a couple and Cameron Diaz fit right in with the young crowd. Hosted by Jack Black and his many a green outfit, the most coveted prize of the night, the honor of getting slimed, went to Indiana Jones himself, Harrison Ford, as well as Pirates star Orlando Bloom.






















America Ferrera shimmers in gold






















Cameron Diaz was honored with the Wannabe Award (even better to her than winning the Big Burp Award the previous year)






















Heroes star Hayden Panettiere is just that, a hero to her many young fans






















Rihanna successfully pulling of yet another amazing outfit, look at those shoes, the hair!






















Teen heartthrobs the Jo Bros give their fans something to swoon over






















Miley Cyrus flashes the peace sign before rocking out to one of her hit songs later in the evening

The Long and The Short of It

Here's a problem that's not the easiest to solve: you currently have short or medium length hair but you want to have long, luscious locks and you want them NOW. It's always the way.

You have two options: 1) Spend some money, find a decent stylist, and have extensions added to your hair or 2) Be patient and let your hair grow.

I've never had extensions and I don't think I ever would. There's something weird about it, and they always look so...well...fake. When I think of blonde chicks with extensions, I immediately think about Britney Spears and her lifeless, mop like hair a few months back. Not a good look.

Therefore, I'd just wait for my hair to grow. I always heard that in order to get your hair to grow, you should cut it. I think the theory behind this is that damaged ends don't allow hair to grow well, so cutting away the damage will stimulate growth. It sounds good and yet a bit counter intuitive all at the same time! According to the hair experts, the best thing to do when at an in-between stage is to cut for shape only....without losing a lot of length.

When growing your hair out, you'll probably notice that the ends of your hair are dry and split easily. Since you don't want damaged hair and you don't want to cut your hair, the best thing to do is condition, condition, condition. To avoid split ends, keep your hair moisturized by using a gentle shampoo. In my experience, shampoos you buy in a salon are more gentle than the ones you buy at Target. Of course, they cost more, but you'll have to decide how much you're willing to spend for long, healthy hair. After a gentle shampooing, condition all over, paying particular care to your ends. You may want to consider a weekly deep treatment if your hair is very dry, damaged, or colored.

As your hair grows out to the desired length, you'll no doubt have to deal with awkward in-between lengths. When this happens, use hair bands to keep everything away from your face or try to pull or clip back just the top portion. This will give the rest of your hair movement and won't look so....shall we say...unpolished.

Once you get your long hair, take care of it. Be especially careful if you use a backpack or fling your purse over your shoulder. Trapping your hair under the straps of such things can cause a great deal of breakage...and this type of damage leads to frizz.

There are pros and cons with every hair length out there. But going from short to long takes patience and some care. Once you get the hair you want, though, you'll be glad you invested the time to get your new look!

Behind the Blog

I've been writing Kiss and Makeup since July 2006. Wow--a lot has happened in that time and yet it's gone by so quickly. While I write all about makeup and beauty products, I haven't ever really told you all about WHY I write this blog. It's time for a peak behind the curtain, so to speak.

WHO IS LYDIA?
Here's what I'm not: I'm not a makeup artist, I'm not an advertiser, I don't work in the cosmetics industry. I really am just your average beauty consumer. I'm in my early 30s, I live in the Seattle area (though I grew up on the east coast), I'm married, don't have any kids, and have to work full time. For my day job I work as an Admin Assistant for a teacher's union. It's not a glamorous job, but I'm paid well and I have a great deal of freedom in my job. While I love, love, love makeup, I don't consider myself overly trendy and I don't like spending tons of money for designer products when cheaper products are just as good. If you really want to know more about my non-makeup life, click here to go to my other blog.

WHY KISS-AND-MAKEUP?
I started Kiss and Makeup because I wanted an outlet to write. At the time I was also honing my inner girly-girl, and was changing my ways to take more time and care in my appearance. I have always had an interest in makeup and I wanted my blog to give me a place to focus on this interest. I never expected to have as many readers as I do now, and I'm thrilled each time I get comments on what I write or when the numbers on my Stat Counter spike.

I think of Kiss and Makeup as a way to communicate with a large group of women who are, like me, trying to put their best face forward. My sister is not a girly girl, so everything I learned about makeup I taught myself through trial and error and by reading fashion magazines. I like Kiss and Makeup to be a two way conversation. I have plenty left to learn and I also want to share the knowledge I already have. Though I first started writing for me, I now find myself writing for you...hoping what I'm saying makes sense and provides some insight and entertainment to my readers.

WHY NO ADVERTISING?
You may or may not have noticed, but I don't have any ads on my site. This is a deliberate move on my part. Yes, I could probably make some money if I included ads. Yes, I have been contacted to put ads on my blog. To me, not having ads allows me to be a bit more free in my reviews. I also don't like the way advertising looks on a blog--I think it clutters things up. You never know, one day I may get an offer I can't refuse, but until that day comes, Kiss and Makeup remains independent and free from advertising (you get enough ads in your life!).

DO YOU BUY ALL YOUR STUFF?
No, but I do buy my fair share. PR and cosmetics companies do send me products to try from time to time. There was an article in the New York Times awhile back that was very critical of beauty bloggers. This article caused an uproar in the blogging community. The Times said beauty bloggers are swag whores, and that companies love working with bloggers because they'll always give glowing reviews of the free products they receive. I don't think this is true. It certainly isn't true here at my blog. If I don't like a product, I'll say so--whether I bought it with my own money or if it was given to me.

So, there you go. That's me and my blog in a nutshell. As always, if you have any beauty questions you can email me at asklydia@hotmail.com or leave me a comment (I heart comments!).

Beauty Product of the Week: Bionic Mascara

What is it? A new formula from Smashbox, Bionic Mascara, "is the first ionic mascara. It will leave you with longer, stronger, and more voluminous lashes! The specially-engineered brush coats lashes with our revolutionary long-wearing, water-resistant formula for a dramatic full lash. Aloe, silk, and wheat protein strengthen and condition." Available only in Jet Black (rich black) for $19 exclusively at Sephora.

What did you think? I had high hopes for this one. I kept hearing about how amazing it was. Hell, when I bought it at Sephora, the salesgirl was giddy with excitement. Sadly, I think the appeal of this product is all hype.

Here's my major beef: this mascara is just way too...black. To quote my beloved Dethklok, it's "blacker than the blackest black times infinity." It's thick, it's heavy, and it's a bitch to take off. But that's not all: it goes on clumpy. You really have to know how to apply makeup with some degree of skill to make this look decent. Even then, you'll invest a lot of time combing out the clumps in your lashes.

The actual mascara wand is nothing impressive. Because this particular formula is so tarry, it's prone to gunk build up...and we all know that gunk build up on the wand does not equate to great lashes.

There is a positive with this product: if you can pull it off, it will give you extremely long lashes. Because the mascara is so darn black, it will make you lashes look fuller and your lash line more defined.

The final verdict? Meh. This mascara is best for your night look. It's a bit too heavy for day unless you're a goth kid or something. Here's a hint: if you buy this, stock up on the eye makeup remover. (See my Battle of the Eye Makeup Removers for more!) If you want to buy a mascara from Sephora, opt for LORAC Lotsa Lash.

Shameless Self Promotion

I don't have time for a proper post about beauty products today (life is just way too busy), but if you need some fresh content, head over to my other blog, Oh My God Girl. There I talk a bit more personally about life and what it is to be a woman these days. I invite you all to come join the conversation!

Tomorrow I'm back with a brand new Beauty Product of the Week!

The Hills Recap


So the hour long season premiere of the Hills on Monday left me with both a bad taste and a good taste in my mouth.

1. Mariah Carey claimed that she absolutely loves watching the Hills but I refuse to believe that she's ever even seen an episode until that night.

2. Whitney and Lauren: How DARE you not know how to pronounce "Givenchy" and you're in fashion and there's a camera in your face!

3. Once the paparazzi is caught taking pics of reality stars while the reality show is being taped, its time for a series finale. Lauren's no longer a reality star she's just a celeb.(Did anyone else catch the pap-snap as the girls were leaving Colette?)


4. Mistakes of an intern (cuz nothing that they did would go down in the "Real" world!)



A. NEVER put going to pick up your dress before getting the job done!



B. NEVER stitch a designer LOAN gown and then go to a club with it on. I gagged when I saw her preparing to do this!



C. NEVER put you beauty supplies next to your designer LOAN gown. That was actually hilarious because Whitney didn't seem to care at first.



D. So now Lauren the man gives you a loan and you hop on a Vespa?? Yeah...NEVER!!! Just NEVER!!!




5. Spencer looked like he gained the marital weight before the wedding even went down!

6.What a dream to meet a semi-hot French rock-star and take mini-tours around Paris!!?? Loved the Eiffel Tower scene

7. Seemed like Lauren got to be more hands on than Whitney but I'm super happy that Whitney is finally finding her way!


8. Kimball...I love you!

9. I'm starting to feel some kind of way about Audrina because why would you make an international call just to tell your friend that the man she likes is showing off his new girlfriend?

10. Heidi's Stepdad to Spencer : "What the heck?!!!" Spencer to the Stepdad: "Yeah I'm a complete loser and it would be a much better moment if you just hit me with that shovel."

Clearly I made that up cuz Spencer's an idiot for going all the way to CO but I love Heidi for making him feel like an idiot at the dinner table with the folks!)


All in all an awesome premiere and can't wait 'til next week! The Heidi drama-train has just left the station!!


- Crystal Hines

Lip Lust

Flipping through my monthly collection of beauty mags, I found myself frozen in the depths of desire as I stared at some runway model and her perfectly shiny lips. They had just enough color not to be dull and oh-so much shimmer. I instantly wanted whatever she was wearing.

Talk about effective advertising!

Her perfect lips forced me to read one of those silly blurbs about what color you should be wearing at the moment. And at this moment, we should all be wearing coral. This season, coral lipglosses are giving lips a fuller more lustrous look.

According to the gurus, fair skinned gals like me should wear pink based corals like Avon's Glazewear Liquid Lipcolor in Punch or Clinique's Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in Cabana Crush. Darker skinned maidens would benefit from a coral with a bit more oomph, containing brighter red or orange undertones. Try Cover Girl Outlast All-Day Lipcolor in Coral.

Damn. I think I need to get me one of these babies!

Jamie Lynn Sporting A Rock?

Jamie Lynn Spears has a new accessory to go with her growing baby bump.

She's reportedly engaged!

A source close to the family told PEOPLE that she has been showing off her flashy piece of jewelry to family and friends around Louisiana and Mississippi. "She's got an engagement ring, " the source said. "She's been showing it off, talking about it."

Her fiance is...you guessed right, 18-year-old Casey Aldridge. The two are expecting a baby sometime this summer.

- Erin Dustin

Product Preview: Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention

If you read through my list of beauty products I use on a daily basis, you'll no doubt notice that I use a fair share of Olay products. And I have done so for years. My mother always used Olay face moisturizer back when it was called Oil of Olay. Probably thanks to her influence, I trust Olay products and incorporate them into my everyday beauty routine.

Now, Olay has as bunch of new products on the market...products I'm looking forward to trying out. The first new product I'm test driving (for the benefit of the blog--it's such a tough job!) is Olay's Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention.

This kit is very cool. It contains 14 pre-filled tubes packed with peptide-B3 complex and other age-busting ingredients in a potent formula. You just apply a tube of cream to your face each night before bed and let the formula do it's thing. Easy as pie!

Olay says that after using the 14 day "intervention," skin will be lifted and wrinkles will be filled. You can use the 14-day treatment every three months or so. This kit is available anywhere Olay products are sold and costs just under $25.

I started using this treatment last night and will report back at the end of my run. I will tell you that even after one use, my skin felt softer and a tinge more firm. I have high hopes! We'll see how it goes.

A Weekend In The Life Of Pamela Anderson

"I read the news today..."

Pamela Anderson and Rick Salomon's marriage was annulled today due to fraud (they both checked the box). Anderson filed for divorce last December after only two months of marriage.

"...oh boy."

But Salomon wasn't the only ex she was dealing with this past weekend.

On a much happier note, Anderson spent Easter Sunday with Tommy Lee, the father of her two children, in Malibu.

The family spent the day at the movies and eating lunch at Geoffrey's.

- Erin Dustin

It's Finally Here!

The Hills tonight! Let the drama begin : )

4 hours, 17 minutes, 30 seconds and counting...

Here's a preview of what's to come this season for those who can't wait, especially the non-East Coast folk who have to wait a little longer...



- Erin Dustin

Fear Factor

Being a good little beauty blogger, I read my fair share of beauty and fashion mags. And every time I flip through my reading, I run across ads that try to scare me into buying a product.

Take, for example, Elizabeth Arden's Intervene Pause and Effect Moisture Cream or Lotion with SPF 15. The good folks at Elizabeth Arden sell this product by posing a question. "Want to look 30 when you're 40?" they ask, hopefully. Then they answer the question in big, red letters "Start when you're 30."

Yikes.

I'm 32.

Does this mean I can only hope to look 32 when I'm 40? Oh, I'm so confused. And I feel like I'm destined to look my age when I hit 40 because I didn't start using this Elizabeth Arden cream at age 30. Those two years are, of course, lost forever and I'll never be able to look like I'm 30 again. Hmph.

I better get my act together and buy this $55 cream so I can prevent my skin from growing older along with me.

Oh to hell with it! I take care of my skin. I use sun block, don't smoke, I moisturize, exfloiate, cleanse, and treat my skin as much as possible. Plus I still get carded when I buy booze, so I must be doing something right.

So, thank you Ms. Arden. Your scare tactics won't work on me!

Brad and Angie for President.


The happy couple should get the award for the most Philanthropic couple...ever.


People.com reported that the couple donated $8 million throughout 2006 to charities like Doctors Without Borders , the Global AIDS Alliance, the Namibia Red Cross Action Program , the Daniel Pearl Foundation, and their own foundations; the Make It Right Foundation and the Jolie Pitt Foundation.


I'm sure the monetary value of how much this couple gives and spends is much more than this. With the 100 kids the have running around plus the triplets they have on the way..$8 mil is just the tip of the iceberg. (Major exaggeration!)




- Crystal Hines

J.LO + Max + Emme = Picture Perfect


People Mag got the first interview with new mom J.Lo and her babes Max and Emme and let me tell you what...Max there definitely looks like daddy Marc Anthony.

Beauty Product of the Week: Matte Blotting Film

What is it? Here's what Sephora's website has to say about their Matte Blotting Film: "Excess oil and shininess on the nose, forehead or cheeks got you down? Sephora to the rescue. Made from a unique, absorbent, microporus film, our soft, blotting sheets instantly whisk away shine without disturbing makeup. The finish is fresh and matte - never dry. To use: Simply press a single sheet flatly onto the areas of the face where you want to tame shine. In most cases, one sheet is enough to cover the entire face. For pop-up dispensing: Open the lid and peel away the brown tape liner on the flap of the packet to expose the adhesive. Close the lid and reopen to dispense one sheet at a time." A pack of 50 sheets costs $10.

What did you think? I've been using the old toilet-seat cover oil remover trick for years, but I finally broke down and bought myself some proper oil blotting sheets during my most recent trip to Sephora. I've used other brands in the past, and I must say: they're all great! The Sephora sheets do an amazing job at pulling the excess oils away from your skin, leaving your face shine-free. They're a snap to use...just press and viola! Shine-free skin. They've become a mid-day must have--a perfect addition to the "freshening up" routine in the mid-afternoon (blot away the shine, brush the hair, apply some lipstick).

The final verdict? Love 'em. I don't care if they're from Sephora, The Body Shop, or wherever, these suckers are a must-have. Stash them in your purse and you'll be gorgeous all day long. Ok, now this is sort of gross, but it's kind of fun to see how saturated the little blue sheets get from the oils in your skin. It's nasty, but you just can't help but look! So--they'll make you shine-free and pretty AND they'll amuse you. Not a bad combo.

A Thousand Lashes...

I was getting my hair colored a few weeks ago, my hair looking very much like a baked potato all wrapped up in pieces of foil. My stylist was chatting with her colleagues while she painted on the bleach, gossiping about their girl crushes on a former salon employee. They went on and on about how gorgeous she was, my stylist commenting on this girl's eyelash extension and how great they looked.

That's when it hit me. I know nothing about eyelash extensions. I don't know anyone who has them. Honestly, the thought of getting fake lashes stuck on to my own freaks me out, so I have not been paying attention to this not-so-new beauty trend.

So...in order to educate myself and you, my fabulous Kiss-and-Makeup readers...here is my lowdown on eyelash extensions:

What is it? Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent, synthetic fibers that give you longer, thicker, natural looking lashes.

How are they applied? Lash extension specialists apply the extensions among your natural lashes one by one. It takes about an hour to get extensions put in; touch ups take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes.

How long do they last? Natural lashes fall out every 60 to 90 days, but the extensions need to be touched up once or twice a month depending on how you care for your lashes and other individual factors.

Can I wear mascara with lash extensions? It's not necessary, but it is ok to wear a water based mascara if you get this treatment done. However, you should not use eyelash curlers if you have lash extensions and you should only apply mascara from the middle up, avoiding the base.

How do I care for the lash extensions? You can't get the lashes wet for the first 24 hours after the procedure. You should avoid saunas, hot steam, getting lashes wet, rubbing your eyes, or pulling at your lashes.

How much does it cost? It depends on where you go and how many extensions you have put in, but plan to spend anywhere between $150 and $300 for the initial extension addition and around $50 for touch-ups.

Hmmm.....I think I'll pass. I'm not all that into extensions, where its hair extensions or lash extensions. I think I'll stick with mascara. Imagine how many tubes of high end mascara you can buy for that $300! Wowza!

Britney's TV Gig

First slightly-secretive weekend meetings with Mel Gibson and now an acting gig over at CBS.

Britney has been very busy lately, but in a good way I suppose.

PEOPLE has just released the first video promo of Brit in action where she plays a receptionist at a dermatologist's office in the sitcom How I Met Your Mother. Shown opposite Neil Patrick Harris in the clip, her first words are, well why don't you just see for yourself...

The 11 second clip

The episode will air March 24.

- Erin Dustin

And her name is....


Nahla Ariela Aubry


-ch

The Daily Show

Because people in my real life know I'm a "beauty blogger," I am often asked about specific products. To be fair, I am not a beauty expert, just a beauty enthusiast, and try as I might, I haven't used every product on the market. After giving my disclaimer, many will ask me what I use on a daily basis, so I thought I'd have my answers at the ready here in this handy-dandy blog entry.

These, my friends, are the products I use on a very regular (if not daily) basis (when I'm not trying out new stuff for the blog!):

BODY
  • Bar Soap: I have no loyalties when it comes to soap. I'll happily use an expensive, organic beauty from Lush one day and then go for a bar of ultra-green Irish Spring the next. I do notice that when I buy bar soap, I gravitate towards Dove. They're stuff isn't as frightening in appearance (i.e., no funky colors) and seems to not cause irritation.
  • Body Scrub/Exfoliant: Not long ago I would have said that I use any old exfoliating product out there. But after using Kiehl's Creme de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish, I can't imagine going back to my "oh-whatever" ways.
  • Deodorant: I have sensitive underarms. Bizarre, huh? The only deodorant I can use that doesn't cause me to break out is Done Unscented for Sensitive Skin. If they ever stop making this, I'll cry (or just be really stinky!).
  • Body Lotion: I don't have a fave here. I'll try just about anything, though I prefer a product that contains an SPF. Being as white as I am, I'm fearful of the sun and things like melanoma.
  • Perfume: Depending on the day, how I feel, and the time of year, I wear either no perfume or Cannabis Santal (by Fresh), Dune (Christian Dior), or Happy (Clinique).
FACE
  • Foundation/Powder: Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals and Mineral Veil are my favorite products. They feel light, they cover like crazy, they look natural, and they last forever. I used to wear Cover Girl liquid foundation, but I didn't like how messy liquid foundations can be. They also make my skin feel suffocated. I made the switch to Bare Escentuals when I started this blog and haven't looked back since.
  • Blush: In the interest of time and having a clean, unmade look, I often opt for Bare Escentuals Warmth. It adds subtle color to my cheeks and I also swipe it over my eyelids in lieu of an actual eye shadow. If I want to wear something else, I often go for Ulta's Afterglow. It's a happy shade of pink that's flattering and fun. If I'm doing a more dressy face, I'll just use whatever blush comes in the palette I'm using for a coordinated look.
  • Eye Shadow: I don't have a particular favorite here! I just try for a pretty color that's not too frosty. I'll use cheap products, expensive products...whatever. I'm not picky here.
  • Eyeliner: Again, I could care less. Sometimes I'll use Smashbox's Cream Liner, but I'll also use a cheap old Wet 'n Wild Eye Pencil in a pinch. Or, I'll just use eye shadow for liner. I'm not loyal to one item here.
  • Mascara: Oh boy. Mascara is incredibly important. I'll try just about anything (and am currently doing so for the benefit of the blog!) but if I had to pick my favorites it would be Maybelline's Great Lash for a bargain brand and Lorac's Lotsa Lash for a more spendy product.
  • Lipstick/Gloss: I will--and have--use almost anything. For a plumper: Lip Venom by DuWop. For a bit of color: Black Honey by Clinique. During the day for moisturizing: Burt's Bees (yum!) or Boots Mediterranean Grape, Olive, and Nectarine balm (also yum, but in a different way).
CLEANSERS/MOISTURIZERS
  • Cleansers: In the morning (in the shower), I use Olay's Regenerist Daily Regenerating Cleanser. It's gentle and exfoliating--perfect for the morning. At night I use Philosophy's Purity Made Simple if I have time or just go for speed and use Boots 4-in-1 Quick Thinking Wipes. I never, ever use bar soap on my face, and I try not to go to sleep with my makeup on.
  • Day Time Moisturizer: Olay Complete All Day UV Moisturizer with UV Protection. I have to have my SPF! I've been using Olay for years and it's wonderful. It does everything I could ask of a moisturizer without costing a fortune.
  • Night Moisturizer: I'm always on the search for a great, nurturing, age-defying nighttime cream, so I don't have a current fave. I'm hoping to change that soon, though, and will get back to you on this!
  • Eye Cream: Surprisingly, I don't have a favorite eye product either. I think I'm using a L'Oreal product at the moment, but I wouldn't swear to it. I like a cream-based product that provides a bit of firming/lift and that will protect against the sun and premature aging.
  • Hand Cream: I'll try anything but am really digging Caudalie's Hand and Nail Cream even though it's wicked expensive.
  • Special Treatments: I try to do a weekly microderm abrasion but I don't always remember. When I do remember, I use Olay's Microdermabrasion and Peel System. It leaves my skin so smooth and doesn't cost too much...always a plus.
So there you have it. Quite the list, eh? And I didn't even get to the hair products or mention my nail care must haves. Another post for another time, perhaps. So tell me: what are your "can't live without it" products?

Eva loves Calvin Klein Undies!!!


Eva Mendes is said to be the new face of Calvin Klein Underwear…according to WWD

She volunteered herself into rehab to deal with substance abuse and personal issues. It's been the trend that celebs go to rehab and come out with several new deals. Well the Calvin Klein deal was in the works long before Eva went to rehab. She's also going to be the spokesperson for a TBD Calvin Klein fragrance.


- Crystal Hines

The Hills at LA Fashion Week.

The Hills stars were all over LA Fashion Week.  

First Lauren with her fashion week debut last week.  The Lauren Conrad Collection seemed like she designed things straight from her closet.  Cute for her first go-round.

Then the ladies were spotted at Smashbox Studios hobnobing with Peroni beers and boys in hand.

And finally, something we all saw coming, with Whitney Port's departure from Teen Vogue, our favorite sweetheart has designed a line.  Eve & A also debut during fashion week and according to WWD it was a line for the classy party girl on the LA scene.  Whitney gets her inspiration and talent from her father who owns Swarm aka Shades of Gray. 


- Crystal Hines

Celebs + Fashion= Industry Take Over!


Celebs are branching out into new genres everyday. From Fergie designing for Kipling to Chloe Sevigny designing a line for Opening Ceremony; its a complete industry take over. Well now we can add Rachel Bilson to the list. She's collabing with DKNY Jeans for a line this fall. Dubbed Edie Rose, the line is said to consist of sportswear, denim, and only a few colorful pieces; 15 in total.

- Crystal Hines

Which Comes First?

I don't care if the chicken came before the egg (or vice versa!). What I DO care about is whether you should apply eye cream before moisturizer or moisturizer before eye cream. And apparently, I'm not the only one confused about this.

In my research around the Internet, I can definitively tell you that I have no freaking idea what we're supposed to do!

Some sites tell you to put facial moisturizer on first, followed by eye cream. The theory behind this is that you'll give the moisturizer a little longer to settle into your skin before you start with your foundation.

Others say eye cream should always be applied first since the area around your eyes is more delicate and does better absorbing the active ingredients in the eye product when the skin is still damp. Some also say that topping an eye cream or serum with lotion will actually seal in its active ingredients

I say: there seems to be no good advice in this area. I know what I do: I apply eye cream first. Why? Well, since the skin around my eyes is more sensitive, I feel like applying eye cream first, with a clean finger, (by which I mean my hands have not yet been coated in moisturizer) will keep my skin free of potential irritants that might be found in my moisturizer.

Routines are hard to break, and for me, eye cream has always come before moisturizer...right or wrong. But I wonder: does it really matter? Probably not.

What do you do? Eye cream then moisturizer or moisturizer then eye cream? Pick your side and then let the debate begin!

It's A Girl!

Well she can't stay pregnant forever...but I'm pretty sure Halle Berry won't mind.

The Oscar-winner gave birth to a baby girl on Sunday morning and "is doing great," her rep has confirmed. The father is Berry's boyfriend of two years, 32-year-old model Gabriel Aubry. This is the first child for both.

No name has been confirmed, but I wonder what type of fruit or U.S. city the little one might be named after, we'll just have to wait and see!

- Erin Dustin

Natural Beauty

I'm not a religious girl, but for some reason, Sundays are my days off. On Sundays, I reject my normal routines and allow myself to just be me...completely unaltered. Though I always shower on Sundays, I rarely wash my hair, I don't take my allergy medications, don't use body creams, swear off perfumes, and rarely if ever wear makeup.

I'm not entirely sure why I do this. As a kid my mother used to say that it was good to give your skin time to breath. I suppose this is the motivation behind my makeup-free Sundays. Sunday is also my day to lounge around the house, taking it easy, just doing this and that to get myself ready for the week ahead.

But if I do go out, my lack of makeup makes me feel scuzzy. I feel like my skin is blotchy and uneven, my hair greasy and sloppy, and that everything about my appearance says to the world that I am slumming...that I don't matter.

There are some women who can go out in the world without makeup looking great and feeling confident. I am not one of those women. I feel like I need at least a tiny bit of foundation and a coat of mascara to look presentable.

What about you? Does wearing makeup make you feel more put together? Do you feel beautiful when you don't wear makeup? And...what are your bare minimum makeup products? Leave a comment and let me know!

Paris's BFF Search

Don't worry, Paris and Nicole aren't feuding again, Paris is just realizing that her BFF may have new responsibilities at home, i.e. baby Harlow. So, with Nicole Richie technically out, Paris is looking for a new someone to keep her company.

The heiress and MTV have teamed up to create a reality show that will feature Hilton's search for a sidekick, tentatively called Paris Hilton's My New BFF.

What would it really be like as Hilton's BFF? Well according to the source herself...

"...there's nothing that's really hard," Hilton told PEOPLE at the Hollywood Hills launch party where the series was announced. "I'm going to be in my element in Los Angeles and really showing these women my life, which is completely different than
The Simple Life."

And what is Paris looking for in a BFF?

"Someone that I just trust and not someone who's going to stab me in the back - it's happened a lot in this town. Just someone who I can have fun with, someone who could be like my sister."

Sounds easy enough.


- Erin Dustin

Beauty Product of the Week: Creme de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish

What is it? According to their website, Kiehl's Creme de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish is a "luxurious, creamy formula with Shea and Jojoba Butters and Sweet Almond Oil blended with ground Luffa Fruit to exfoliate body skin without drying. With the addition of Pure Honey and Soy Milk Protein, our body polish nurtures skin, leaving it comfortably soft, smooth, and primed for moisturization." Available at Kiehl's for $27.50 for a 6.8 oz tube.

What did you think? With Winter winding down, it's time to get ready for warmer weather. One way of doing that is to wash away all those nasty dead skin cells to reinvigorate your skin. This "body polish" is just the thing to do it! I've been using this for several days now. When I rub it over my body in the shower, it feels good. It's not too harsh, but I can tell that it's doing something good to my skin. When I get out of the shower, my skin feels so smooth, so soft...so perfect. I even find myself touching my skin during the day, amazed and pleased at how smooth and moisturized it feels. When I don't use the body polish, I can tell. My skin just doesn't feel as good.

The final verdict? It may seem pricey, but I've tried plenty of other body scrubs. This one is far superior. It has a gentle scent (unlike Soap and Glory's body scrub that smells very strongly like super sweet candy), it's not a scary fake color (like Bath and Body Works bright blue spa scrub) and a little goes a long way. Kiehl's Creme de Corp Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish is worth every scent. It's gentle yet effective and provides amazing, long lasting results. Try it...you'll like it!

Everyone Wants Us To Spend Money!

Those tricky people in the world of beauty want us to spend money on their fabulous products. And to do so, they're tempting us with bonuses and discounts. Here are a few currently going on:
  • Estee Lauder Gift Time at Macy's: Through March 22nd, when you spend $26.50 or more, you'll get $65 worth of freebies, including two makeup bags, two lipsticks, eyeshadow, and more.
  • Lancome Gift Time at Bloomingdales: While supplies last. Spend $35 on any Lancome product and get a bag full of goodies like an eyeshadow quad, mascara, lip color, an eye serum, and more.
  • Too many good deals to mention at Beauty.com: Seriously! If you click here, you can see all the good stuff you can get for free if you make a qualifying purchase. My pick? I'd go for the Bliss deal.
  • Buy one get one 1/2 off at drugstore.com: Until March 21st, drugstore.com is offering BOGO-style deals. This is a great site to hit up if you need to stock up on some of your faves.
There are probably plenty of other great deals going on. Hell, I didn't even mention all the free shipping/free sample deals that are so popular on beauty websites like Sephora, Ulta, and others. If you're having a bad week, go out and get yourself a new lipstick or mascara. You don't need to spend a ton of money to get some freebies. And you never know what new products you'll discover along the way!

Ready, SET, Go!

Lancome is selling some great skincare sets right now on their website, www.lancome.com. For just $38, you can choose a set of skincare products designed to match your skin type: Beinfait Multi-Vital Set for Normal/Combination Skin, Nurtrix Royal Set for Dry Skin, or Pure Focus Set for Oily Skin.

Each set contains a cleanser, a lotion, a toner, and a skincare treatment (like a face mask or T-zone treatment) that will be gentle on your skin and leave you with a soft, clean, well nourished face. To make things even better, you also get a cute little cosmetic bag.

For less than $40 these sets are pretty good deal. You'll get a nice introduction to the Lancome line of skincare products in an easy to pack makeup bag at a price that won't break the bank. Head over to Lancome's website to pick one up for yourself, or get one to give to one of your fabulous friends. Easter and Mother's Day are both almost here, giving one of these beauties will make both you and your recipient look amazing!

The Rumors Are False


George Clooney is NOT engaged! (THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!)

I mean, I know that him and girlfriend of less than a year Sarah Larson are getting more and more serious by the day, and that she technically is the only girlfriend he has ever brought to the Oscars, blah blah blah, but still he has not made that big step just yet. (THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!)

Reports of the engagement were posted in the British version of Marie Claire, where a restaurant worker from the Italian town where Clooney's villa is located was quoted as saying that Clooney and Larson were engaged. The reports were in an article under the headline, "George Clooney to Marry?"

Clooney responded through his rep by saying that "these reports are not true."

Phew...America's (and obviously my) favorite bachelor is still, well just that, our favorite bachelor!

- Erin Dustin

Matt Damon To Be A Dad Again

Matt Damon and wife Luciana are expecting!

"They couldn't be happier," Damon's rep Jennifer Allen told PEOPLE. "They're so excited!"

The happy, expectant and glowing couple showed up to the Empire Film Awards in London on Sunday where Luciana debuted the growing baby bump.

This will be their third child.









Damon and Luciana with daughter Isabella

- Erin Dustin

What is It and Why Do I Need It? High-Def Makeup

I keep getting emails about new high-definition makeup and I wonder: does the average consumer really need such a product?

Cargo is selling the blu_ray collection--mascara, eye shadow, blush, gloss, and a mattifier, all designed to meet the unique demands of shooting people in high-def. Make Up Forever is also coming out with a line of products targeted at people who are shot in high-def on a regular basis. They're selling foundation that corrects the complexion while "improving the skin's aspects."

Huh? Skin aspects? What the heck?

Since I am just an ordinary woman and I don't appear on camera oh...ever...I'm not concerned with buying high-def makeup. However, I just bought a new high-def TV and man! The picture is amazingly sharp. I can see why newswomen and weather girls might want to have these products at their ready. I found myself hypnotized by a local newscaster's shiny blue eyeshadow the other day...an eyeshadow designed for high-def (and a talented makeup artist) would have really saved the makeup day.

For now, I say that unless you're on TV as part of your daily routine, you can probably skip the high-def makeup for now. You don't have to follow all the trends, after all. I give you permission to stick with your normal makeup!

It's On!

Watch out Scarlett Johansson, Kristin Davis is giving you a run for your money!

Not only is the Sex and the City star auctioning off a meet-and-greet to her highly-anticipated SATC movie premiere in May, but a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes will go to the winner as well!

With both of their proceeds benefiting Oxfam America, Davis's celeb auction will begin March 12, the same day that Johansson's ends, and will run through March 22.

And a little FYI to all you high bidders out there, Johansson's auction is up to $38,200!

I can't even imagine what Charlotte's will be like!

Happy Bidding!

- Erin Dustin

What Say You?

I was reading one of my many fashion and beauty mags the other day, and they were highlighting trends for the new season. One trend they were touting was white fingernail polish.

I thought about this for a bit and came to the realization that white fingernails are not for me. Even when they're done right, white nails look sickly. When done wrong, it looks like you painted your nails with White Out. I don't think it's a flattering or healthy look, especially on fair skinned people like me. I, for one, will be skipping this trend.

But what do I know? I am far from an authority on trends, but I can't see falling for white fingernails. Nude nails? Yes. French manicures? Hell no. But what do you think? Would you paint your nails white for the upcoming warmer months? Leave a comment and let me know!

Winners of the Week

Two very big shows had two very big episodes this week.

Not only did Project Runway reveal its winning designer on Wednesday, but just last night American Idol's top 12 was decided.

Christian Siriano proved that "fierceness" was just what Heidi Klum was looking for as he (emotionally) took the title of best designer of the hit-show's fourth season. Siriano, from Annapolis, MD and the youngest contestant to ever win, achieved another difficult task as well...he made the one and only Posh smile. Victoria Beckham, who joined Klum, Michael Kors and Nina Garcia on the judging panel for the final runway show, admitted that Siriano's collection was something that she would wear and in her own words said, "It was major."

Click here to check out Siriano's "fierce" collection.

In-between all those nail-biting commercial breaks, Ryan Seacrest finally revealed which singers will compete next week in American Idol's top 12 last night. Although it was sad to see the four contestants leave, it will be exciting to see how the top 12 will perform as the stakes get higher.

Idol's Top 12:

Michael Johns
Seyesha Mercado
David Archuleta (!)
Carly Smithson
David Cook
Ramiele Malubay
Jason Castro
Kristy Lee Cook
David Hernandez
Brooke White (!)
Chikezie
Amanda Overmyer

- Erin Dustin

Beauty Product of the Week: Smile Brightening Lip Treatment

What is it? Sally Hansen's Smile Brightening Lip Treatment is "the first lip gloss with the secret to instantly whiter teeth. The exclusive formula with color-correcting pigments, blue botanicals and brightening pearls creates a magical teeth whitening effect. Shiny gloss provides beautiful color and vinyl-like shine so you see an irresistibly brighter, more radiant smile. Available in 5 luminous shades, dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic. Contains Optical Brightening Pearls, Borage and Cornflower Extract to help create the effect of whiter teeth, botanicals and Vitamins A, C & E to soften and condition dry lips, and a pleasant vanilla mint flavor freshens breath." Available at drugstores for less than $7.

What did you think? I've been wearing Dazzling, a pretty pink gloss with a lot of shine and a great feel. The gloss makes my lips feel slick and sexy, and the color is very flattering. I don't know if my teeth look that much whiter, but the gloss does work well with my skin tone and does a good job of brightening up my smile.

The final verdict? I've paid a lot more for a lot less of a product. As a gloss alone, it's worth every penny since it's lightweight, easy to wear, and not too shiny. It doesn't make my lips feel overly sticky or gooped up like some glosses make me feel. The potential added benefit of whiter-looking teeth is a bonus. If you are able to find one of the five shades that works with you, I think you'll find this an easy to wear gloss suitable for every day use.

Heidi Montag's drama train...


The Hills isn't even officially back on air yet and there's already some drama. Did Spencer cheat on Heidi? That seems to be the question of the moment. The only answers we can get are from the interview in Us Weekly.

"Spencer and I have really had our ups and downs this past year," Montag tells Us. "I've definitely been betrayed by friends before, but I've never had a boyfriend do this to me."

She adds, "Spencer and I may differ on what it means to cheat."

Pratt, for his part, tells Us, "We're definitely on a roller coaster. I'm not too happy about a lot of things."



Well I'm going to draw the conclusion that once a player ALWAYS a player. Plus, he bought the engagement ring from a novelty store. Please Heidi, this is just karma getting back at you for choosing a man over your friends.

Whew... Enough venting. Tune in on March 24th for the new season!!!

Green is the New Black

Even though the evil George Bush is our current "president," it seems like Americans are really getting on the "Save the Environment" bandwagon, and that's a good thing. I've been critical of companies in the past for claiming to be environmentally friendly because they use some organic ingredients in their pricey products. But now, I am happy to report that there is a new company called ecoTOOLS that makes environmentally friendly products and adopts an earth-friendly philosophy in its business practices.

ecoTOOLS sells a line of environmentally inspired tools--everything from powder brushes to loofahs and bath mitts. All the makeup brushes have bamboo handles...and since bamboo grows quickly, the choice of materials has minimal impact on the environment. As an added bonus, the brush bristles are animal-free, made from soft, synthetic hair called taklon. The majority of quality brushes are made from animal hair, so these ecoTOOLS are an excellent alternative for all you vegetarians and vegans out there!

What's even more exciting is that the brushes won't break the bank. A lash and brow groomer costs just $2.99; the most expensive brush, a powder brush, is only $7.99. The brushes don't look cheap, and the bristles are exceptionally soft. Plus you can store your brushes in the package they come in--there is no wasted materials with these babies.

To put their money where their corporate mouth is, ecoTOOLS has joined with 1% For The Planet, an alliance of businesses committed to leveraging their resources to create a healthier planet.

ecoTOOLS are available this month at select Walgreens, Kmart, and Ulta stores, or visit www.parispresents.com for a store locator.

Start Your Spring Cleaning with Sephora

Sephora is one of the best places on earth. They have it all: perfume, makeup, skin care, and beauty tools all in one spot. While it can be crammed and somewhat confusing if you don't know what you want, Sephora remains one of my favorite stores...hands down!

Just in time for Spring, Sephora is debuting a new line of cosmetics bags. This line, a collection of go-everywhere travel bags in slick pink, green, and white striped nylon, is so cute and thoughtfully designed, that you might get into organization mode when you see them!

Swing by your local Sephora and check them out....they come in a variety of styles and each of these durable bags is covered in a slick pink, green, and white striped material. Here's a description of the entire collection:
  • Large Handle Bag: A boxy, short-handled bag that unzips to reveal three smaller, removable inner cosmetic bags plus an inner zip compartment.
  • Pencil Case: Accommodates a plethora of brushes and pencils up to 8" in length. It's also great for discreetly toting makeup essentials.
  • Triangle Bag: This roomy case opens wide to reveal a deep inner compartment for all your daily makeup and skincare essentials, plus inner and outer slide pockets for easily retrievable items.
  • Clutch Bag: With its roomy detachable interior and special slots for pencils and brushes, this cosmetic case doubles as a clutch purse.
  • Hanging Bag: Store your cosmetics and toiletries in style when you travel with this easily portable hanging case.
Bags range in price from $12 (for the pencil case) to $48 (for the hanging bag) and are available online or in stores.

Docs Do A Sing-Along

Grey's and Private Practice docs put away the stethoscopes (and drama) for the evening and brought out the mics for last Friday's charity sing-along with proceeds going toward the crew members who were affected by the recent WGA strike.

McDreamy, aka Patrick Dempsey, started the night out with a video message from Japan where he is promoting his film Enchanted. He wore dark sunglasses and sat next to an action figure of himself. Katherine Heigl looking ravishing in red once again, introduced costar (and Tony winner) Sara Ramirez from the UCLA stage. Ramirez sang "Meadowlark" and recieved a standing ovation.

Next up was T.R. Knight where he nervously joked that he hadn't done anything like this in 13 years. But not to worry, he went through with it. He sang the show tune, "Losing My Mind/You Could Drive A Person Crazy."

McSteamy, aka Eric Dane, then joined the newest Grey's cast member Brooke Smith on stage where they read fan fiction followed by Chandra Wilson who sang her rendition of "God Bless The Child."

Kate Walsh (who is set to be gracing the halls of Seattle Grace once again come April) appeared via video from Australia but her costars of Grey's spin-off Private Practice were in attendance including Paul Adelstein who covered Paul Simon's "Slip 'Slidin Away" while rocking out on the electric guitar.

After two hours of sing-along fun, Shonda Rhimes, executive producer of both ABC shows, thanked the audience for their support. "Even though we are starting production on our shows again, many crew members will never be able to make up the money lost in the strike," she said. "We love our crew and are happy to provide, if only for one night, a little Good Medicine."

Here's a video of a few of the performances of the night...



- Erin Dustin

Vote For Luke!

An avid American Idol fan?
Watching the top 8 male singers perform tonight?
Voting for Luke Menard until the very last second the phone lines are open?

If you answered yes to these three questions (which you should have) then you rock, and if not, you at least MUST MUST vote for the adorable and talented Orlando Bloom look-alike Luke Menard and help him successfully make it into Idol's top 12!

Here's a video of Luke singing Queen's "Killer Queen," during last week's '70s theme.



I wonder what he'll sing tonight?

Tune in and VOTE FOR LUKE!

- Erin Dustin

Drew's Charitable Heart

By the time yesterday's Oprah had ended, Drew Barrymore had not only expressed her feelings about her cutie of a boyfriend Justin Long, but more importantly, made the HUGE announcement that she was donating $1 million to the World Food Progamme.

Barrymore, a UN ambassador and the current Vogue cover girl, appeared on Monday's Oprah for a big give of her own during the themed show. After both her and Long were questioned about their blossoming romance by Winfrey, (we'll get to that a little later) Barrymore presented a check for $1 million dollars to the World Food Programme, which will help feed children in Africa. Barrymore, who has worked with the charity since 2005, has already made two trips to Kenya and seen for herself what a big impact she is making. "I have seen with my own eyes what a difference a simple cup of nutritious porridge can make in a child's life," the actress told Winfrey. "It helps them learn, stay healthy, and sets them on track for a bright future." Best friend Cameron Diaz even phoned in, expressing how proud she was of her donation, saying that she was "choked up."

Barrymore, like I mentioned before, also opened up about her and Long's relationship. Both "fresh" out of the shower after using the hotel shampoo, (Barrymore revealed after Winfrey asked why she smelled so good) Barrymore described Long as her best friend and the relationship as "healthy, productive, supportive and full of humor," also stating that they were having an "excellent time."

And what does Long have to say about his lady love?

"She smells good," Long told Winfrey. "She's beautiful," he said, "and funny. The most compassionate person I've ever met."

Definitely rooting for Drustin!

- Erin Dustin

Make Your Whites Whiter!

It seems like there are new whitening products on the market every few months or so...probably because so many of us want (or need!) to brighten up our smiles.

Crest has two new products hitting the stores for you to try. I have both of these and will let you know my thoughts after I use them. Here are previews, though--to wet your appetite.

Crest Whitestrips Daily Whitening Plus Tartar Protection, $39.99 for 38 applications
Coming this month to a store near you! These whitening strips need to be worn for only 5 minutes a day, and will give you both a whiter smile and tartar protection. A two for one that only takes a few minutes a day? Sounds great! Even better, the folks at Crest have heard our complaints about increased tooth sensitivity from whitening products, and they've made this system gentle enough for daily use. I'm hopeful, but will reserve judgment until after I try them out.

Crest Healthy Radiance Daily Paste and Weekly Strips
Also available this month is a kit from Crest containing a toothpaste and whitening strips. The toothpaste is meant for daily use; the strips are to be used once a week for 30 minutes. The products work together to whiten and strengthen tooth enamel, making your smile beautiful and healthy. I like the idea of having a complete system at work in my mouth, and am also keeping my hopes up for this product.

My sister has agreed to help me out with my product testing--she'll tackle the whitening strips and I'm going to try out the paste and strips. I'll report back with my findings as soon as possible!

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