One word - Gorgeous!
- Erin Dustin
Speaking Of Jen...
Have you seen Ms. Aniston's new ad for Smart Water?
One word - Gorgeous!
- Erin Dustin
One word - Gorgeous!
- Erin Dustin
New Couples Alert!
Jen and John?
Had some fun in the sun together recently!
Mariah and Nick?
Reportedly engaged with a recycled ring!
Oh no he didn't...
- Erin Dustin
PEOPLE's Most Beautiful
PEOPLE has just named their 100 Most Beautiful people.
And who is the lovely lady topping the list and gracing the cover?
"I was a tomboy. I had three brothers. I was the girl with the dress on that always came back in the house filthy with scrapes and bruises. But I was always very girly. I had to be able to twirl so that my underwear showed." - Kate Hudson (Love her!)
A few others that made the mag's coveted cut:
Borat's leading lady Isla Fisher
Samantha Who's Christina Applegate
Country girl Carrie Underwood
High schooler Vanessa Hudgens
One of PEOPLE's Most Beautiful couples, Eva Longoria and Tony Parker. Tony says he likes his wife "best in jeans, a T-shirt and Hugs." Eva's translation, "He means Uggs." Ha, how cute!
The cast of Gossip Girl (duh)
- Erin Dustin
And who is the lovely lady topping the list and gracing the cover?
"I was a tomboy. I had three brothers. I was the girl with the dress on that always came back in the house filthy with scrapes and bruises. But I was always very girly. I had to be able to twirl so that my underwear showed." - Kate Hudson (Love her!)
A few others that made the mag's coveted cut:
Borat's leading lady Isla Fisher
Samantha Who's Christina Applegate
Country girl Carrie Underwood
High schooler Vanessa Hudgens
One of PEOPLE's Most Beautiful couples, Eva Longoria and Tony Parker. Tony says he likes his wife "best in jeans, a T-shirt and Hugs." Eva's translation, "He means Uggs." Ha, how cute!
The cast of Gossip Girl (duh)
- Erin Dustin
Don't Forget to Enter!
In honor of my 500th blog entry here at Kiss and Makeup, I am giving away a set of ecoTOOLs makeup brushes. Click here to enter. A winner will be selected at random on May 2nd.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Look Younger With Allure
I read way too many beauty and fashion magazines. Honestly, after awhile, they all seem to blend together and I can't tell if I'm reading Allure or Glamour! However, while thumbing through Allure the other day, I noticed that they have a section on their website that gives registered users daily tips on ways to make yourself look younger.Registration is a snap and is totally free. Just go here to get yourself connected. Don't feel like signing up but still want the tips? Well...it's a good thing you came to my blog! Here are all of Allure's tips on how you can look younger in just 30 days (if you want more details, head over to Allure's site):
- Get an extra hour of sleep. God, who couldn't use that? Sleep is such a luxury!
- Wear at least an SPF 15 sunscreen daily.
- Drink more water.
- Brighten your skin with your cleanser. Check out Olay's products--they have a lot of budget-friendly multi-tasking cleansers on the market.
- Start using an antioxidant on your face in the morning. Check for a moisturizer or skin care product that contains antioxidants to get moisture and anti-aging all in one step.
- Exercise! It does wonders for your skin, your muscles, etc. Hell, just look at Madonna. She's getting up there and still looks amazing!
- Use retinols at night to fight wrinkles. Retinols don't do well when they're exposed to the sun, so a night cream containing retinols makes a lot of sense.
- Make your skin look better with foundation. Using foundation is an art-form for some, a disaster for others. If you do it right it will even you out and make your skin look great.
- Fight under eye circles with concealer. A good eye cream can't hurt either!
- Keep your skin hydrated.
- Warm up your face with blush.
- Cover your gray hairs. While you're at it, update your hair style!
- Pump up your lips. No need to go under the knife--just try Lip Venom or some other lip plumper. A little color on your lips will help make you look more youthful as well.
- Try an at-home treatment. A peel or at-home microderm kit will relax you and make your skin look great!
- Brighten your eyes. Try a blue mascara to make your eyes look bigger and brighter.
- Lighten any dark spots. Try a concealer or see a dermatologist. Dark spots are often a sign of sun damage and can really add the years to your skin.
- Get more quality sleep. Heck, I'm just happy to get 7 hours a night! Consider a new mattress or at least a mattress cover and new pillows if you wake up stiff and sore each morning.
- Depuff your eyes. Cucumber slices are popular because they're cool and help bring down the puff. Again, a good eye cream or gel is great tool to add to your age-busting arsenal.
- Add highlights to give your hair depth.
- Work on your eyebrows. Put down those tweezers and let a pro shape your brows for you!
- Don't forget to protect your neck. Be sure to wash it and moisturize it daily. Whatever goes on your face should also go on your neck!
- Get rid of crows feet. If botox isn't your thing, try an eye cream that firms and lifts.
- Whiten your teeth!
- Exfoliate the skin on your body.
- Work on giving your hair more volume. A good cut will help, as will a decent blow out.
- Get rid of redness. There are a lot of creams on the market that help tone down the red in your face or body. They work! If you have a skin issue causing the redness, see your dermatologist.
- Give your hair a break and a treatment. Hydrate it with a mask or scalp treatment to undo some of the damage from too many treatments, too much heat, etc.
- Eat more fruits and veggies!
- Give yourself an at-home facial or go see a professional.
- Paint your nails and make sure your hands look good.
31. Have more sex! I read somewhere that women who have sex and orgasms regularly are seen by others as being more youthful. It gets your blood flowing, makes you feel good, and honestly? What could it hurt?!?
Baby Mama In Real Life
Amy Poehler's gonna be a baby mama!Poehler and hubby Will Arnett announced that they are expecting!
The comedic couple are due in the fall.
Congrats!
- Erin Dustin
A Bounty of Body Lotions!
I don't know about you, but now that Winter is winding down and Spring is (slowly) coming, I need to take better care of my skin. I have plenty of rough patches and areas of dry, flaky skin. Not a good look for the coming months! To help get my skin back into shape, I've been trying out a bunch of different moisturizers.
Here are my thoughts:
NIVEA BODY NATURAL TONE
What it's supposed to do: "Enriched with naturally derived eventone complex and UVA/UVB sun-protection, it gradually evens out skin tone and helps prevent future discolorations while keeping skin soft and moisturized."
Cost/availability: about $7; available at drugstores
Thoughts: It goes on easily and absorbs quickly into my skin. It feels cool and light and has helped even out my skin tone a bit. However, I don't like the way this product smells. There's nothing offensive about it's scent...it just has a generic drugstore scent to it that keeps me from using it as much as I should.
Grade: B
SEPHORA BODY BUTTER IN RIVERA BLUE
What it's supposed to do: "This thick, luxurious moisturizer rejuvenates skin with natural shea butter and beeswax, which softens skin and prevents against moisture loss."
Cost/availability: $16 at Sephora
Thoughts: This product has a very strong, distinctive scent. I personally love the way it smells--it has a clean citrus/lavender/sandalwood scent that I really like. It comes in a big tub that you stick your hand in to get the product out--not the best design, but ok...whatever. It makes my skin feel good and smell good, but if you take away the scent, you have just an average product.
Grade: B-
OLAY BODY QUENCH MOUSSE ACTIVE HYDRATION
What it's supposed to do: "...gives you three dimensions of hydration: sheer coverage - glides easily and evenly onto skin, instant absorption - penetrates quickly beneath skin's surface, lasting hydration - continuously moisturizes throughout the day."
Cost/availability: about $7 at drugstores
Thoughts: I'm a klutz when it comes to using mousse. I can never gauge how much is enough and how much is too much. This is true of hair mousse, and it's true of this mousse-style body lotion. That said, this product feels nice and cool when it goes on. It smells a little like watermelon (which I don't particularly like). I think it takes too long for this product to dry, resulting in tacky feeling skin.
Grade: B-
CLEAN LOGIC REFRESH BODY LOTION IN REFRESH WITH NOPAL
What it's supposed to do: "Nopal plants are indigenous to Mexico and have been used for centuries to cure an array of ailments. Most notably, Nopal is known for its deep healing and anti-inflammatory properties with antioxidants that can help neutralize the harmful effects daily activities and stress can have on the skin. Nopal can even help to prevent wrinkles, balance skin tone and moisturize to keep skin looking youthful."
Cost/availability: just under $13; available at cleanlogicbodycare.com
Thoughts: This lotion doesn't have parabens or other nasty ingredients. It's spearmint scent is strong coming out of the tube, but doesn't linger--probably a good thing. I like the way this product feels--it goes on easily and feels light. I would like to keep this in the fridge so that it goes on really cool for the summer.
Grade: A
KIEHL'S CREME DE CORPS LIGHTWEIGHT BODY LOTION
What it's supposed to do: "This light-weight body lotion, a lighter version of our classic Creme de Corps body cream, moisturizes skin and leaves it soft and smooth all day long. Our "Creme de Corps Light" is ideal for normal or dry skin and is formulated with unique, skin-soothing ingredients derived from nature - Jojoba Butter, Olive Fruit Oil, and Sweet Almond Oil. The formula helps protect against damaging free radicals and further helps skin to maintain its natural moisture balance and prevents moisture loss. Absorbs quickly and instantly soothes and conditions skin for a lovely, silky feel with "dress-and-go" convenience."
Cost/availability: $21.50 at Kiehl's stores or online
Thoughts: I love this one! It's light but it really leaves my skin hydrated. Because it has almost no scent, I can use this right out of the shower and not worry about how it's scent is going to interact with my perfume (if I wear perfume!). This is a very simple product, but sometimes simple is good.
Grade: A
What's your favorite body lotion? Leave me a comment and let me know!
Here are my thoughts:
NIVEA BODY NATURAL TONEWhat it's supposed to do: "Enriched with naturally derived eventone complex and UVA/UVB sun-protection, it gradually evens out skin tone and helps prevent future discolorations while keeping skin soft and moisturized."
Cost/availability: about $7; available at drugstores
Thoughts: It goes on easily and absorbs quickly into my skin. It feels cool and light and has helped even out my skin tone a bit. However, I don't like the way this product smells. There's nothing offensive about it's scent...it just has a generic drugstore scent to it that keeps me from using it as much as I should.
Grade: B
SEPHORA BODY BUTTER IN RIVERA BLUEWhat it's supposed to do: "This thick, luxurious moisturizer rejuvenates skin with natural shea butter and beeswax, which softens skin and prevents against moisture loss."
Cost/availability: $16 at Sephora
Thoughts: This product has a very strong, distinctive scent. I personally love the way it smells--it has a clean citrus/lavender/sandalwood scent that I really like. It comes in a big tub that you stick your hand in to get the product out--not the best design, but ok...whatever. It makes my skin feel good and smell good, but if you take away the scent, you have just an average product.
Grade: B-
OLAY BODY QUENCH MOUSSE ACTIVE HYDRATIONWhat it's supposed to do: "...gives you three dimensions of hydration: sheer coverage - glides easily and evenly onto skin, instant absorption - penetrates quickly beneath skin's surface, lasting hydration - continuously moisturizes throughout the day."
Cost/availability: about $7 at drugstores
Thoughts: I'm a klutz when it comes to using mousse. I can never gauge how much is enough and how much is too much. This is true of hair mousse, and it's true of this mousse-style body lotion. That said, this product feels nice and cool when it goes on. It smells a little like watermelon (which I don't particularly like). I think it takes too long for this product to dry, resulting in tacky feeling skin.
Grade: B-
CLEAN LOGIC REFRESH BODY LOTION IN REFRESH WITH NOPALWhat it's supposed to do: "Nopal plants are indigenous to Mexico and have been used for centuries to cure an array of ailments. Most notably, Nopal is known for its deep healing and anti-inflammatory properties with antioxidants that can help neutralize the harmful effects daily activities and stress can have on the skin. Nopal can even help to prevent wrinkles, balance skin tone and moisturize to keep skin looking youthful."
Cost/availability: just under $13; available at cleanlogicbodycare.com
Thoughts: This lotion doesn't have parabens or other nasty ingredients. It's spearmint scent is strong coming out of the tube, but doesn't linger--probably a good thing. I like the way this product feels--it goes on easily and feels light. I would like to keep this in the fridge so that it goes on really cool for the summer.
Grade: A
KIEHL'S CREME DE CORPS LIGHTWEIGHT BODY LOTIONWhat it's supposed to do: "This light-weight body lotion, a lighter version of our classic Creme de Corps body cream, moisturizes skin and leaves it soft and smooth all day long. Our "Creme de Corps Light" is ideal for normal or dry skin and is formulated with unique, skin-soothing ingredients derived from nature - Jojoba Butter, Olive Fruit Oil, and Sweet Almond Oil. The formula helps protect against damaging free radicals and further helps skin to maintain its natural moisture balance and prevents moisture loss. Absorbs quickly and instantly soothes and conditions skin for a lovely, silky feel with "dress-and-go" convenience."
Cost/availability: $21.50 at Kiehl's stores or online
Thoughts: I love this one! It's light but it really leaves my skin hydrated. Because it has almost no scent, I can use this right out of the shower and not worry about how it's scent is going to interact with my perfume (if I wear perfume!). This is a very simple product, but sometimes simple is good.
Grade: A
What's your favorite body lotion? Leave me a comment and let me know!
Annie's Side Of The Story
“I'm sorry that my portrait of Miley has been misinterpreted. Miley and I looked at fashion photographs together, and we discussed the picture in that context before we shot it. The photograph is a simple, classic portrait, shot with very little makeup, and I think it is very beautiful.” - Annie Leibovitz- Erin Dustin
Miley Apologizes
Due to recent photos that have found its way across the web as well as her sudden embarrassment over her recent semi-topless photo shoot (Billy Ray and mom Tish were in attendance as well as other Miley family members/supporters) for famed photographer Annie Leibovitz, teen queen Miley Cyrus has issued this statement to PEOPLE:
"My goal in my music and my acting is always to make people happy. For Vanity Fair, I was so honored and thrilled to work with Annie [Leibovitz]. I took part in a photo shoot that was supposed to be 'artistic' and now, seeing the photographs and reading the story, I feel so embarrassed."
I don't know, but if she was going to feel this much remorse over the whole situation, maybe she shouldn't have done it in the first place, but that's just me...Becoming a star has its price.
- Erin Dustin
Introducing Georgina Sparks
Who's "G?"I think our whos, whats, wheres, and whys will (hopefully) be answered soon enough!
Gossip Girl tonight!
xoxo
- Erin Dustin
Conscious Consumer
So you're concerned about what ingredients are going into your cosmetics. You're also worried about animal testing, the over-use of packaging materials, and other environmental issues. But you still want to look good and take care of your skin. And you don't want to break the bank buying beauty products. What should you do?Here are a few hints to be a more enlightened consumer:
- Look for products that are botanical, biodegradable, and renewable. Cargo sells lipsticks that come in biodegradable boxes that have wildflower seeds in them. You get lipstick plus packaging that can sprout new life. If you can't afford Cargo's products, look for cosmetics that don't have a lot of extra packaging. The less plastic and cardboard, the better.
- Be a vegetarian beauty consumer. Sure, you may like to eat a bloody steak every now and then, but try looking for products made from plant-derived ingredients. You'll have to trust the packaging, but look for vegan beauty products since they're less likely to be filled with parabens and other nasty chemicals. Plus they'll be less likely to have had as much of a negative environmental impact than mass-produced, chemical-laden products.
- Look for companies that give back to a cause. This is becoming a more popular trend. A lot of companies are donating a part of their profit to an environmental or health cause. Sometimes it's just the proceeds from particular products that go to a cause, but the way I see it, you're planning on buy mascara anyway...why not buy a mascara that will make your lashes look great while helping save the Earth or find a cure for cancer?
- Educate yourself. If you want to know if your beauty products are tested on animals, check out PETA's consumer guide. Not sure about what ingredients you should avoid? Go to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics website. There are so many sites filled with consumer info--it just takes a few minutes of googling to become more enlightened.
- Talk back. If your favorite cosmetic company uses too much packaging or tests on animals, write them a letter expressing your concern. These companies are in business to make money, and they need to hear back from their customers. The more they hear from us, the more they may take change seriously.
A Milestone and A Giveaway!
Earth Day Week is winding down, and I just realized that this is my 500th entry at kiss-and-makeup! 500 entries? Wow--where has the time gone?In honor of my 500th entry AND in keeping with enviro-week over here at K&MU, I am giving away a set of four fabulous brushes from ecoTOOLS. I told you about these new makeup brushes awhile back, and I like them so much I want to share the love. ecoTOOLS rock! They're made out of bamboo and have synthetic bristles. Plus they're packaged in a very eco-friendly way. What's not to like?
Leave me a comment and tell me if you worry about what your beauty products are made of and why (or why not). As a bonus, tell me your about your favorite organic/natural beauty product or company. Make sure I have a way of contacting you and enter by May 1st. I'll pick and announce a winner (at random) on May 2nd. The winner will get the following:
- Two Bamboo Foundation Brushes (one big, one small)
- Bamboo Blush Brush
- Bamboo Eye Shading Brush (my fave!)
DIY The Eco-Friendly Way
In honor of Earth Day Week I am focusing on companies and products that embrace an organic philosophy. Just in time, I found this very cool site that, among other things, shows you how to make your very own organic beauty products.
You can't get much more eco-friendly than buy making your own products out of organic ingredients. For all you DIY-ers out there, check this site out! It might be fun.
Be Great to Yourself!
First off, happy Earth Day! Today is the official day when we are supposed to celebrate our home by organizing in support of environmental issues and actions. One of the easiest way to be more green is to be a more thoughtful, more purposeful consumer. This extends to being a beauty consumer as well.If you are looking for an easy way to use more organic, natural, eco-friendly products in your daily life, head over to a brand new site called Chillessence (chillessence.com). Chillessence is an online store that sells personal care products and accessories while maintaining their business and personal philosophy of dedication to a healthy life and a healthy world. Here's what they have to say about their products and their company:
- Our organic body care products are at least 70% organic.
- Our body care products are all natural. We do not add anything artificial or harmful—ever—thus ensuring safety both to you and to the earth.
- Our jewelry and accessories are a celebration of our commitment to the environment. The Chillessence jewelry collections highlight items found bountifully in nature. Our handcrafted jewelry does not exploit our resources.
- We back our claims through careful research, made available on our website and through our monthly newsletter, Greenspectives. It is not enough for us to claim that the organic and natural ingredients in our products are safe and beneficial. We prove it to you.
- We package our lotions in aluminum bottles, a highly recyclable material. When you are done, please be sure to recycle them through your community’s program.
- We do not overpackage our products. You will not find our bottles within another box at the point of sale. We use recyclable shipping materials when sending you new products by mail. Less packaging means less waste.
- We don’t just produce the best in organic body care and natural accessories for the body and home. We want to do our part in improving lives and the planet. Check our website often for new and information about going green.
- We reinvest a portion of our profits towards causes that support our passions. We are currently partnering with Co-op America, World Vision and other non-profit organizations working towards improving health and education and creating a socially just and environmentally sustainable society.
Become a member of Chillessence by entering your email address and zip code, and you'll learn about special members-only deals (like a 10% off discount for new members!). You'll also get their Greenspectives newsletter with all sorts of tips on how to live more in tune with the world around you. Chillessence makes it easy to "be great to yourself" while being great to the environment. That has to be good karma!
OMG
Gossip Girl tonight!Little J queen bee?
Part 2 of the Nate-Blair-Chuck triangle?
Dan and Serena's perfect love story continued?
Can't wait!
Oh and p.s...due to the perfect Spring NYC weather, I sat on the steps of The Met this past weekend Gossip Girl style, (while sporting a Blair Waldorf-inspired headband mind you) waiting to catch a glimpse of one of my fav. Upper East Siders, and nothing! So disappointed!- Erin Dustin
Turn in Your Toxins!
What's in YOUR nail polish? Are you afraid to learn the answer to this question? You should be! The use of toxic chemicals seems to be the norm when it comes to nail care products. It's much cheaper to use low-quality products, like Formaldehyde, Toluene, and phthalates, to produce inexpensive nail polish and remover.But as the old saying goes, you pay for what you get.
When you buy super cheap, chemical-full nail products, you may be putting your health at risk. The three chemicals I listed above can cause cancer, birth defects, respiratory problems, neurological damage, and reproductive issues just to have a few.
Now you can change your dirty ways! From now until May 15th, butter LONDON is inviting you to turn in any three nail polishes containing any of these chemicals. In return, you'll receive a free bottle of butter LONDON's "3 Free" Lacquer. Pile up your old stuff and head to butter LONDON store or fashion boutique across the country.
While you're at it, go over to www.brandhabit.com to track down boutiques that carry your favorite designers and beauty products and to get more info on the Turn In Your Toxins campaign. You can also go to www.butterlondon.com for full details and locations.
butter LONDON's "3 Free" nail lacquer contains no Formaldehyde, Toluene, or phthalates and comes in amazing colors. Plus they have neat rectangular bottles that are easier to store than the traditional nail polish bottles.
Earth Day is Every Day
Earth Day is April 22nd so in honor of the environmental movement and our wonderful planet, I am going to focus this week on organic, eco-friendly beauty.I have been critical of companies in the past who seem to just market certain products certain ways in an attempt to deem them organic or environmentally friendly. I have also stated that companies can claim that their products contain organic, natural, or botanical ingredients without being regulated by any governmental agency.
Despite my criticism, I do appreciate products that don't contain nasty chemicals, that are packaged in an environmentally friendly way, and that are made by companies that give back to environmental causes.
Being a tree-hugger doesn't mean you're doomed to a life of hairy armpits and no makeup. There are so many companies making eco-friendly products out there that it's going to be hard to mention them all. That said, I am going to highlight a few companies, products, or other environmental trends in beauty this week.
I'll start off the week with a list of nasty ingredients you don't want to see in your beauty products...and why:
PARABENS
Found in: Almost everything, used as a preservative (esp. shampoos, shave gels, moisturizers)
Why it's bad: Potentially cancer-causing--since parabens are everywhere, there is a lot of research currently going on to better examine their negative effects
MERCURY
Found in: Eye drops, deodorant, and ointments, labeled as "thimerosal"
Why it's bad: Potentially cancer-causing and toxic to the human reproductive system
LEAD ACETATE
Found in: Hair dye and cleaners
Why it's bad: Human reproductive and development toxin; currently prohibited in Europe
FORMALDEHYDE and TOLUENE
Found in: Nail polish and nail products
Why they're bad: Formaldehyde an cause allergies and irritation, currently banned in Sweden and Japan for cosmetic use; Toluene can cause you to get high if you inhale it and is potentially toxic
PETROCHEMICALS
Found in: Some hair relaxers, shampoos, mascara, perfume, foundation, lipstick and lip balm
Why it's bad: As byproducts of crude oil they can contain carcinogens
PHYHALATES
Found in: some nail polish, fragrances and hair spray
Why it's bad: Human reproductive and development toxin--also banned in Europe. This stuff is everywhere and is seriously bad, bad, bad. Be especially careful because there are tons of phyhalates in jelly style sex toys. Sounds stupid, but still...you should know this stuff.
PLACENTA
Found in: Some hair relaxers, moisturizers, and toners
Why it's bad: Can interfere with normal hormone function and can lead to serious health problems like breast cancer
For more information, please visit The Campaign For Safe Cosmetics at www.safecosmetics.org.
Be sure to come by this blog all week for info on how to reduce your risk of exposure to potentially toxic ingredients while still looking beautiful!
Guess Who
Look at that bling!Who's the lucky wearer of the oh so fabulous rock, hmmmm, I wonder...
It's...
ASHLEE SIMPSON!Pete did good!
- Erin Dustin
Happy Birthday!
Happy Bday yesterday To Victoria Beckham!She either turned 34 or 39...Some reports say the younger, some say the older, I wonder which one it is, interesting.
And a little bday shout out to cute little Suri Cruise who turns 2 today!What sort of extravagant event will be held in her honor this year...
- Erin Dustin
Catch A Peek!
TV is back!Grey's next week!
Finally, I'm in need of some Mer-Der drama pronto...
And even better, check out a sneak peek of next week's action-packed first episode back after FOREVERRRRRRRRRRR! (Seriously, I'm not exaggerating)
- Erin Dustin
Beauty Product of the Week: Kiehl's Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion
What is it? According to their website, Kiehl's Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion "is an advanced formulation that has a highly effective abrading quality on skin’s surface. This formula affords an immediate skin-smoothing effect and with regular, tri-weekly use, helps to visibly minimize discolorations and small marks on face, hands, and décolleté. Over time, the look of facial lines is reduced and skin texture is significantly smoother and clearer, while the appearance of pore size is diminished. As skin is re-texturized, our formula helps to facilitate the absorption of topical skin treatments to maximize their efficacy. This polishing cream is formulated with "diatomatious earth" – crushed microshells derived from ocean sand – as well as a powerful ingredient used by dermatologists to perform micro-dermabrasion procedures. The formula further helps to soothe skin with a blend of Willow Herb and nurturing sea algaenates." Available at Kiehl's for $40.What did you think? I am quickly falling in love with Kiehl's products. And for good reason: they are of an exceptional quality. I really think you go walk into a Kiehl's store blindfolded, grab any item, and leave with something great.
I just started using this micro-derm treatment and instantly noticed that it made my skin feel smoother. You use this product in the morning up to three times a week and it feels like you're doing something very special for your skin. The texture of the product is both smooth and gritty at the same time. It has these tiny particles that gently but effectively exfoliate and polish the skin. The texture of this product is unlike other micro-derms or exfoliants--it's much richer and way more luxurious.
The final verdict? I notice that my skin looks and feels better every time I use this product. It's easy to use, it feels amazing, and it provides results. I use this Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and I look forward to each use. Yes it's a bit spendy, but it's worth every penny. Did I mention I'm loving Kiehl's products lately?
Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment!
Okay--this should be interesting! For the next 30 days I'll be trying out the Sephora best-seller ThermaClear skin care tool. I'll be sure to report back and tell you my thoughts, but for now, here's some background.ThermaClear is a zit zapper!!
Simply put, ThermaClear works. Rather than suffering the additional effects of putting harsh products that can dry or irritate the skin, ThermaClear uses heat to treat pimples right at their source. And unlike topicals which are designed to prevent the onset of new blemishes and often take six to eight weeks to be effective, ThermaClear is designed to address pimples you already have – the ones that really matter. Best of all ThermaClear works fast - an FDA-reviewed clinical study proves that pimples treated with ThermaClear cleared up to four times faster compared to those not treated with the device. Many of our customers tell us that they typically see results in as little as 24 hours!
This best-selling skin care tool on Sephora.com has garnered the attention and praise from magazines ranging from NewBeauty, Shape, and OK! to Time, Nylon and Harper’s Bazaar. And ThermaClear was recently named “One of the Year’s Most Interesting and Useful Devices” from Beauty and Fashion Tech as well as one of 2007’s Top Ten Best Products by Meg’s Makeup.
Always Use Protection!
I'm a very fair skinned blonde with blue eyes. To say the sun is my foe is to put it mildly. Because of my coloring and background, I have to be very careful in the sun. I've never been one for tanning: I'd rather be swimming if I'm at the beach, and I can think of nothing worse than spending time and money in a tanning booth.I'm not afraid of the pain of a sunburn...I'm more concerned with things like wrinkles, premature aging, and skin cancer. I don't want to go down that road, and I don't want any of you to have to deal with the negative effects of the sun either. So...I'm telling you all: make sure you wear your sunscreen every day. Don't leave home without it.
Between now and June (while supplies last) the good folks over at Sephora are selling their Sun Safety Kit. The kit contains $85 worth of goodies but will only set you back $25. And to make things better, 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The kit contains 11 travel-sized summer skincare products.
For your $25, here's what you get: 0.05 oz Korres Natural Products Watermelon Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 30, a 0.25 oz Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Defense Moisture Lotion SPF 30, a 1 oz DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer SPF 15, a 0.35 oz Cosmedicine Medi-Matte Oil Control Lotion SPF 20, a 0.17 oz Juice Beauty Green Apple Moisturizer SPF 15, a 1 oz Murad Firming Bronzer SPF 15, a 0.08 oz Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 55 PA + + +, six single-use packs of MD Skincare Powerful Sun Protection Pads SPF 30, a 0.17 oz Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Cream Ultra Protection SPF 30, a 0.25 oz Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15, and a 0.098 oz Tarte 24/7 Lip Sheer SPF 15 in "Thursday", all in a limited-edition Sephora pouch.
Head over to Sephora to buy this kit today! Pick one up for yourself and buy one for your mom--Mother's Day IS coming up and what better way to say "I Love You" than by helping to guard her from skin cancer? Again, quantities are limited, so get shopping today!
Benji's In!
"He's the perfect example of 'don't judge a book by its cover.' He's polite, well-mannered - even calls me sir! We love him like family already. Benji doesn't drink, doesn't smoke and is a healthy vegan!" - Rick Hilton"He's changed her life - and I really think she's genuinely in love for the first time. He's so good to her and for her. We couldn't be happier for them. This has honestly become the real thing." - Kathy Hilton
- Erin Dustin
John's New Ink
Have you seen John Mayer's new tattoo, or should I say tattoos?Well if not, let me paint the picture for you. It's a whole sleeve!
Left Arm = Covered In Ink
Gasp!
I'm not quite sure about it. He just doesn't seem like the same "My Body is a Wonderland" crooner anymore. He's so edgy now.
Although the sweatshirt is hiding his new arm art, you can kinda sorta catch a sneak preview near his wrist.
- Erin Dustin
Product Preview: 24.7 Skincare
Being a west coast transplant, there are things I really miss about the east coast. One of those things is CVS Pharmacy. CVS has been launching some great cosmetic and skincare products lately, and now they're selling 24.7 Skincare products.24.7 Skincare is effective, anti-aging skincare with fast-acting, visible results. 24.7 Skincare is formulated with a proprietary and unique technology that incorporates Rapid Anti-Aging Technology, featuring GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid). When used in conjunction with other key ingredients, GABA works to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the facial area quickly, safely and effectively, with absolutely no side effects – just results. As clinical studies have shown, the Targeted Wrinkle Treatment has a 55 – 88% reduction in fine lines and wrinkles within 10 minutes of use.
I recently got my hands on several 24.7 products and am trying them out. I'm also having a few family members give the products a test drive so we can see how they work on different skin types. Here's what I'm testing:
Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, $39.99
Clinically proven to deliver a 55-88% reduction in fine lines and wrinkles within minutes of application, as well as proven to reduce pore size up to 72%, rosacea up to 60% and stretch marks up to 40%
Firming Anti-Aging Eye Serum, $29.99
Instantly cools, tones and clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffy eyes, fine lines and wrinkles
Smoothing Anti-Aging Moisturizer, $29.99
Delivers an extra boost of moisture for a fantastically supple, smooth, and splendidly vibrant complexion
Daily Purifying Facial Scrub, $15.99
Sheds away dead skin cells to reveal luminous, radiant, and naked skin with this gentle two-in-one purification treatment to detoxify and refresh the skin
Instant Plump Volumizing Lip Shine, $19.99
Instantly plumps, glosses, and moisturizes, all while enhancing natural lip color
I'll let you know my thoughts on these products in a few weeks--I like to give products time to do their thing before giving you my verdict....And Gonna Have A Baby, Maybe?
It's yet to be confirmed, but it seems that newly-engaged couple Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz may have a bun in the oven.According to US Weekly, a source close to the couple has verified that the two are expecting their first child.
She does seem to be covering her stomach area with the black clutch...hmmmm
This has been an exciting week for the two of them!
- Erin Dustin
April Showers Bring May Flowers: A Weekend In Review
Cate Blanchett welcomed her third son, Ignatius Martin, born Sunday.
Britney Spears was involved in a minor fender bender Saturday night on a L.A. freeway. No one was hurt.
Stephanie Tanner (Jodie Sweetin) gave birth to a little girl, Zoie, Saturday.
Lindsay Lohan is still partying, seen throughout the weekend at hot spots around L.A. with good friend DJ Samantha Ronson.
Heidi Montag launches Heidiwood down the runway Friday. Spencer even presented her with two dozen pink roses! And they're still not living together.
Nina Garcia is no longer with Elle magazine, which may mean she's out at Project Runway. Oh no!
Still no wedding confirmation from newlyweds Beyonce and Jay-Z, hiding her ring finger from the public at a Houston Rockets game Friday night.
- Erin Dustin
Become a Makeup Artist in Action!
Elle magazine is running a fun makeup artist contest you might be interested in. Elle has teamed up with Dior Cosmetics to give away a full page feature ad in the January 09 issue of Elle magazine. Great exposure for all you budding makeup artists!All you need to do is grab a friend and a digital camera and head to the nearest Macy's Dior counter. Makeover your friend with Dior's products, take a picture and then email it to artistinaction@elle.com. The contest ends on June 16th, so get moving!
For more details and rules go to artistinaction.elle.com.
Have fun and good luck!
