Beauty pro division

Makeup artist Ken Mendelson talks about mineral cosmetics, color trends and Jane Iredale at New York fashion week.

Seen above is Masela Lusha having her eyes adorned with minerals from Jane Iredale. Jane Iredale was one of the sponsors at the Ultimate Green Room. Jane believes "The most beautiful cosmetic you can wear is a healthy skin" Other celebrities who visited: Daphne Zuniga, Nick Gonzalez, Ashley & Courtney Peldon, Kathy Griffin, Kathy Najimy, Bahar Soomekh & Daryl Hanna. Take a walk around with Daryl Hanna and view the video below. The first interview is on Jane Iredale.

This weekend I ventured over to the Westside of Los Angeles to personally experience my first FaceMapping session at Dermalogica on Montana, one of the most respected leaders in professional skincare. I love their products (the special cleansing gel is a solid staple in my bathroom) so why wouldn’t I love their services and treatments too? If you’re a design enthusiast like I am, you’ll truly appreciate the architecture and layout of this cutting edge flagship spa. The most intriguing aspect was the futuristic décor and ambiance. Three peaceful white “pods” serve as treatment rooms for their cult-followed facials, massages, and their new line of decadent thermal body treatments.

Inside, I received my very first FaceMapping session, Dermalogica’s patented and extremely thorough skin analysis that took about five minutes. FaceMapping is based upon the division of the face into 14 zones and allowing the therapist to examine, observe and make notations pertaining to every inch of my face (even behind the ears, where shampoo, cleansers or other product may accumulate, causing unnecessary irritation!)

I received an education about my skin from a knowledgeable and certified skin care therapist. She examined my face and was eerily accurate about my lifestyle habits and gave me some insightful tips that I took home and immediately implemented. It’s been about a week now and I actually see a difference in my face. I have a clearer complexion, and my skin seems less dry. FaceMapping by Dermalogica is an ingenious concept. I believe I have found my new secret weapon for great looking skin.

If you're too busy to make an appointment at a day spa or can't spare the cost for skin care treats such as facials, read on to see how a few key organic ingredients and homemade recipes can help you become a do-it-yourself skin care specialist.

Many devoted skincare users have long celebrated organic ingredients and products as an alternative to the sometimes chemically enriched skincare products being churned out constantly. However, knowing what specific ingredients do to benefit skin care practices can help anyone concerned about whether such products would suit them and their skin type. While there are literally too many such ingredients to account for, there are a few whose roles definitely deserve to be in the spotlight.

For those who missed it, Barbies manufacturer Mattel sent The Body Shop a cease and desist order after posters featuring Ruby - a self proclaimed Anti-Barbie spokesperson started appearing in American shop windows. This banned advertisement was also forbidden to be hung up in the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway. The complaints included her “nude and nippless figure” being exposed to the public which offended people in the US and China.

Finally! Healthy makeup made especially for women like me!!

jane iredale-The Skin Care Makeup is pleased to launch GLOBAL BEAUTY, an extension of their global palette to accommodate woman of all ethnicities. From rich olive to golden brown and deep mahogany, GLOBAL BEAUTY is for women; all women. This is the first time that mineral cosmetics will be available in such a wide palette with true tones. With the help of three influential celebrity makeup artists, GLOBAL BEAUTY is the culmination of years of testing. CEO and Founder, Jane Iredale noted "This is seriously lacking from the cosmetics industry. Every woman deserves a healthy skin." Like all of jane iredale's cosmetics, GLOBAL BEAUTY will be free of preservatives, dyes and harmful fillers such as talc. It is so beneficial to the skin that plastic surgeons and dermatologists worldwide recommend it!

In honor of the launch, Pierce Mattie Public Relations is hosting a cocktail party in her honor. In a true celebration of beauty, grace and style, jane iredale's GLOBAL BEAUTY event will highlight style influences from Cleopatra to Beyonce in the event of the year! We invite you to share in this iconic celebration. To RSVP, please contact Lauren Branche or Ivy Cartagena at 212/243.1431 by October 13th.

Estee Lauder Cos. Inc. Chairman Leonard Lauder gave himself a 20 percent cut in salary in the latest fiscal year, a year in which the cosmetics company's net income fell nearly 40 percent.

Lauder, the 73-year-old chairman of the eponymous company founded by his mother in 1946, said through a spokeswoman on Friday that "the reduction was at his request and a personal decision."

His annual salary fell to $1.44 million from $1.8 million.

Lauder's bonus, as well as the bonuses of other top executives, were reduced due to the company's results.

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Pampering and healthy skin across the nation. Every woman loves a little time for rest and relaxation. According to a survey conducted by the International Spa Association spas are one of the biggest growth industries in America.

According to the results, 95 million visits are made to spas in the United States annually generating $5 billion in revenues. Spas generate more in revenue than ski resorts ($3.1 billion) and only slightly less than box office receipts ($7.5 billion).

With these kind of numbers in mind it is no wonder that Spa Week has grown into an incredible public relations event for spas around the country. With over 300 spas participating from coast to coast and all around the country, Spa Week is setting up shop in a city near you. Spa Week hits New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, D.C., Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Miami and Minnesota October 16th-22nd.

But Spa Week isn't just about facials and massages. Keeping in spirit with the desire to reach out to women across the country desiring to be pampered Jane Iredale Cosmetics is one of the sponsors of Spa Week

One lucky winner will receive Jane's Fall 2006 line. So hop to it and enter here! Just think how great your makeup will look freshly pampered skin after Spa Week!

Think you've seen it all when it comes to cosmetic surgery? Look more closely. Eyelash transplant surgery is set to become the new must-have procedure for women - and the occasional man.

About 30 to 40 hair follicles taken from the back of the head to sew on eyelids for lash transplant. Using procedures pioneered by the hair-loss industry for balding men, US surgeons are using 'plug and sew' techniques to give women long, sweeping lashes once achieved only by glued-on extensions and thick lashings of mascara.

'Eyelash transplantation does for the eyes what breast augmentation does for the figure,' said Florida-based Dr Alan Bauman, a leading proponent of eyelash transplants.

'This is a brand new procedure and it is going to explode,' Dr Bauman added, during what was billed as the world's first live eyelash surgery workshop for 40 surgeons from around the world in California.

Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) said Tuesday it will resume selling its SK-II skin care range in mainland China, following the conclusion of a government investigation that found no health risks from trace metals in the products.

Chinese regulators found that trace levels of chromium and neodymium in the cosmetic products don't pose health risk to consumers, said Charles Zhang, external relations manager for P&G Greater China.

Despite evidence to the contrary, the combination of seductive marketing and opulent packaging has convinced many consumers that expensive means "better" in the world of beauty. The truth is there are impressive skin care and makeup products at all prices. This list contains some of the best options, regardless of price. Whatever you decide to spend is up to you, but let me assure you, after evaluating and researching thousands of products, the inexpensive products listed here work as well as, if not better than, their pricey counterparts. If you can get past price as an indicator of excellence, your skin (and wallet) will be far better off because you'll make choices based on quality, not exaggerated claims. Keep in mind that wasting money isn't beautiful.

I am on the fence about this one. Having several girlfriends that recently had the procedure done and loving it is great. However my aunt, cousins, etc. in the 80's had silicone implants that leaked causing hardening of other body parts and cancer. Plastic surgeons expect breast implants filled with silicone gel to supplant those containing salt water as the most popular choice of the nearly 300,000 U.S. women a year who have their breasts surgically enlarged.

In this country, silicone-gel implants now account for only an estimated 10 percent to 15 percent of the breast augmentation market, with saline implants making up the rest.

A 14-year virtual ban on silicone-gel breast implants - now ended - had restricted their use to women taking part in research studies. With the Food and Drug Administration's lifting of that ban, surgeons expect the saline-to-silicone ratio to reverse slowly and eventually match the overwhelming edge silicone has elsewhere in the world where the two types of devices are sold side by side.

Choosing your cosmetics used to mean some pretty straightforward color selections: pink, red, maybe purple. No longer. The new world of choices involves more intense decisions: Will you choose Temptress? Vixen? Teasing Flirt? Or perhaps a bit of Tie Me to the Bedpost blush?

Sexy names are overrunning cosmetics counters, making a simple task such as buying blush seem like a trip to the curtained-off section of your local DVD rental place. Customers relish the promise and thrill inherent in the racy monikers, and beauty companies welcome the chance to call red something other than red.

"Makeup is hope in a jar. Now, if you go into any cosmetics emporium, department store or Bath and Body Works, you can find every possible hope," says Jean Godfrey-June, beauty director at Lucky magazine. "You can try on a different identity but not look different."

Even a mild name can inspire. One of Godfrey-June's favorites, MAC Juicy Pink lip gloss, has a slightly shocking name and looks shockingly pink in the tube. In reality, it only adds a bit of shimmer to her lips.

"No one knows you're wearing it. But you do," she says. "Sexy makeup is for even more modest women than closet sexy-lingerie wearers."

About 20 percent of new color cosmetics shades fell into this hot-and-heavy trend during the first half of the year, according to Karen Grant, senior beauty analyst at market research firm NPD.

"This year is when we really saw the push toward really sexy names. It was really across categories — nails to lipsticks," Grant says. "The shade name that's most likely to make you blush: 'Pussy Galore' (named for the character in "Goldfinger," one of the early James Bond movies). "I'm amazed that it could be used then, let alone now."

It's not just edgy companies like Nars (the successful Orgasm blush, launched in 1999), MAC (Velvet Teddy lipstick) or Benefit (Dr. Feelgood face balm). Traditional mainstream brands are in the game, too, including Lancome (Exotic Kiss lip gloss), Clinique (Nudey nail polish) and Chanel (Boudoir rouge).

Color names that make you smile — or, even better, blush — help add distinction to otherwise similar products.

"There are only so many colors for makeup, only so many reds and pinks — a red is a red is a red — but some of the names make them stand out," says Nina Sisselman, vice president of creative development for High Maintenance, the company with the beauty license for Playboy. "If you're in Sephora, with hundreds of choices in front of you, the name, the package and the color makes a difference."

All things being equal, including color and texture, Renata Faiman of Los Angeles would pick a lip gloss with a racy name over boring Pink No. 6. But, says the 25-year-old public-relations executive, quality matters most. "Always the color comes first, and then I look at the name and say, 'Oooh, that's so cute."'

Another plus: No long-term commitment to changing your appearance is necessary. These are, after all, products that disappear with the swipe of a cotton ball.

"Every woman has many sides of sexy," says Christine Beauchamp, CEO of Victoria's Secret Beauty. The line recently launched a collection called Very Sexy Makeup, with some compacts carrying the words "Very Sexy" inside.

Beauchamp wears Passion lip gloss, a mosaic blush called Wild Child and Sultry eye shadow. "We all love telling each other what shades we're wearing," she says. "Saying the names out loud makes you giggle, and I see customers really enjoying the shade names when they're at the makeup bar in the stores."

But as cosmetic manufacturers keep pushing for new ways to stand out, will names become too hot to handle?

Grant predicts that if companies go too far, shoppers' intrigue will turn to repulsion. Pout's Carpet Burn lipstick, a dark black-currant color, actually made the NPD staff gasp — and Grant notes she doesn't see that one around anymore. (A Pout spokeswoman says the color was discontinued in the United States, not because of the name but because or a regular turnover of colors. It is, however, still available on Pout's British Web site.)

Striptease, described as a soft nude pink lipstick (coincidence?), is one of Pout's top sellers here. The best-selling lip gloss? Pop My Bubble.

At Victoria's Secret, a team develops an entire personality for a line, complete with a script and voice, much like the early stages of scripting a movie. Once team members have a list of shade names, they "cast" them using what they think are the most appropriate colors. A deep red became Slow Burn, a nude color Wet, and gold was christened G — "G for gold, G for G-string or G for whatever else you're thinking," Beauchamp says, laughing.

The names match the brand image, she adds: sexy but not X-rated.

The Playboy brand has a different connotation. Tie Me to the Bedpost blush and Mile High mascara fit right in the overall picture for Playboy, which also named all of its eyeliners for bar-worthy pickup lines, including "Are Those Real?" As Sisselman says, "If anyone can push the bubble, Playboy can push it. We're not for Sally Homemaker next door."

But Lucky's Godfrey-June says creating a good, wearable product is still the most important thing.

"Every woman has a drawer of makeup that she doesn't wear. She buys something that's a stretch or seems wild, but if it's a color that she can't wear, she won't buy it again," Godfrey-June says. "If you look like a clown, you won't wear something called You Win a Million Dollars."

I hate to be the one to break this news but Dior is a few years late in coming out with this one, what's next another pomegranate cream? Come on marketing team at Christian Dior - I know you can do better.

With Caudalie and all of their copycats on the market and the formulas being so fabulous and well priced, why bother?

Christian Dior has joined the grape generation, that is, they have harnessed the goodness from the vine of grapes to make a new anti-aging skin care line. L’Or de Vie will be hit the market in December 2006 in top-scale department stores Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. The skin care line will be marketed especially in the USA and Asia. These premium brands will retail for over US $300 each. The skin care line manufactured from the sap of the sauvignon grape is said to have ten anti-oxidizing molecules. The product comes in two versions, a cream and a concentrated extract.

Today I was reading in Women’s Wear Daily that Estee Lauder will be launching a foundation line under its very popular skin care line Resilience Lift Extreme. The foundation will be debuting in 2007 with a marketing campaign that includes Elizabeth Hurley. While ads with Hurley could never persuade me to buy this makeup, because really now, she’s already gorgeous and doesn’t portray the typical person who would need this foundation; the ingredients and science behind the foundation alone might do the trick.

At the age of 32, I’ve definitely noticed my skin losing elasticity and firmness. Since I am not yet ready to take the plunge into plastic surgery and cannot use anything involving chemicals or hormones due to being pregnant, I look to skin care and makeup to give me a temporary fix. The cocktail in this foundation is said to consist of triterpines, tetra and hexapeptides, just as the moisturizer it is named after does. It also includes Polylift, a protein-rich flexible film, that makes skin feel tighter upon application; a lipid complex designed to restore the skin’s natural surface epidermal layer, and seigesbecka, a plant extra that helps the skin maintain its natural elastin and collagen levels. It almost sounds too good to be true and for only $29.50, it surely sounds like it should have a much higher price point.

While Estee Launder will be mainly taking the traditional approach in marketing this foundation, they will also launch an internet campaign early next year. As a makeup Blogger, I am crossing my fingers and toes that this includes marketing to Bloggers for reviews. I will feverishly raise my hand to be one of the lucky ones to try out this foundation that seems like it may be the (temporary) answer to a lot of my aging woes.

What do you think? Too good to be true or truly good?

Looking for longer lasting results to cosmetically combat wrinkles? Then look no further than the newest dermal filler on the block: Radiesse. It was announced just this week that Radiesse has received FDA approval, which means you know that a lot of research and clinical independent studies went into this product and that it can stand by its results.

Dermal fillers are substances that are injected just below the surface of the skin to fill in lines, wrinkles, and scars. Unlike face lifts that stretch the skin, fillers add volume for a more natural youthful appearance. Dermal fillers tend to provide a more natural look than a face lift and can be typically done over your lunch hour.

There are several types of dermal fillers on the market; collagen, hyaluronic based fillers and now Radiesse, which is a calcium hydroxyl apatite filler. Radiesse is made of unique calcium-based microspheres that are suspended in a natural gel that is injected into the skin through a simple, safe and minimally invasive procedure. Using this technology stimulates your skin to produce new collagen.

Of all the dermal fillers out there, Radiesse has been proven to have the longest lasting results. While most last up to a year, Radiesse can last 2 or more years, which means you require less frequent injections.

You can learn more about this new dermal filler by visiting their website www.Radiesse.com or by finding an experienced Radiesse doctor local to you.

Nudes and the pale look of lips made its way out of the trend this past Fall and were replaced by red and bold lip colors. Fall into this winter have seen many celebrities and beauty experts making a statement with color. I know that many times color is feared, most especially red, but if you find the right mix of a bold color to match your skin tone, then anyone can wear the colors of the Winter season.

My favorite celebrity to make a statement with color is Gwen Stephani. Many pale-skinned women shy away from cherry reds, but Gwen always looks glamorous, as does another pale skinned music diva, Christina Aguilera.

Spring and summer will have some reds and fuscia’s remain, but it will make the transition to peaches, corals, and browns. The matte look will be back in and glosses out, which I will sorely miss as I love shine.

As we are only weeks away from Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC, I’m already looking forward to finding out what the trend will be for this time next year. What are you predictions?

I’m certainly not a scientist, but I am pretty educated and try to always read both sides to a story. Just like when everyone screamed that mineral oil was bad for you, it eventually was proven that it was not. However, you still find many companies today touting how awful mineral oil is for your skin while offering you their version of something safer. I have yet to find a website stating that mineral oil is harmful while not trying to also sell you something in the process. I had been skeptical myself, but after some researching of my own and contacting my friends at The Beauty Brains blog (who happen to be both cosmetic chemists with 30 years experience), they insisted it was all hype and that mineral oil was indeed the best moisturizing product for your skin. So I have learned to look deeper into an issue than to be frightened by scare tactics.

Unfortunately, scare tactics are the route that Dr. Epstein of the Cancer Prevention Coalition is taking when going after Origins, an Estee Lauder company. They try pointing out that Origins cannot be taking, "A totally integrative approach to skin care ... to help your skin be as healthy as possible, (and) optimize its defenses against age accelerators" claiming that Origins uses parabens (among other ingredients) in their products. They site that parabens are known to cause “endocrine disruptive.” However, there has not yet been one study that has conclusively, 100% proven this.

Spa Towells
4 out of 5 Stars
I have to admit, when I was approached to review Spa Towells, I wondered what it would look like and if it would actually work. I received a few packages of the towells, which were pretty good size. In fact, the towells were bigger than I imagined them to be. They are 8x8, which for image purposes imagine opening up a tri-folded papertowel like those in women's restrooms...Read more.

Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment
5 out of 5 Stars
Ojon is the talk of the town these days. If you haven't seen them on QVC, then you've surely heard other beauty bloggers raving about their products. Ojon's Restorative Hair Treatment contains 100% Ojon palm nut oil from the rainforest in Central America...Read more.

Korres Wild Rose Brightening Serum
4 out of 5 Stars
I loved the very light rose scent. Not too florally or overly done. Nothing that would cause you to think it was too fragrant. The serum was tan in color and it only took 3 pumps to cover my entire face and eye area. It only pumps out a small amount at a time, so the 3 pumps really wasn't a lot of product...Read more.

Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup
4 out of 5 Stars
I have an uneven skin tone, and honestly, I don’t know too many people with the perfect complexion. I am always on the hunt for a product that will transform my blotchy skin and make it look flawless. I don’t know about you, but when it comes to liquid Foundation, I have a love hate relationship with it...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics, known for their fabulous Cheek Stains and double-ended lipgloss and BORBA, known for their all natural products and drinkable skin care, have come together for what is likely to become a trend among cosmetics companies this year. tarte Cosmetics has teamed up with BORBA to create their newest lip gloss set to launch in February called Inside Out. Inside Out is a vitamin-infused lipgloss that tarte calls a “double-duty” beauty product. It’s one that not only works on the outside of the body, but on the inside as well. The gloss works to soothe and hydrate your lips, while the nutraceutical blend delivers powerful skin care ingredients.

Scott Vincent Borba exclusively created the blend of vitamins for tarte’s Inside Out lipgloss. It is a combination of all natural ingredients from BORBA’s Clarifying, Age Defying and Replenishing lines. They include Acai & green tea extract which help strengthen capillary walls, reduce epidermal irritation and enhance skin’s clarity and radiance; Grape seed extract & Vitamin C which help accelerate production of natural elastin, protecting skin against free-radical damage & restore skin’s clarity, Vitamins A, E & K which act as antioxidants to give you that healthy glow, and Lychee extract promotes long-term skin hydration and chamomile extract soothes skin and helps to counteract redness. Inside Out comes in 3 colors; shimmery pale pink, hot pink and nude. Each gloss is 5.7oz. and is scented with pomegranate, the same scent as BORBA’s Clarifying Cotton Fibers.

Lancome is not one to let a lifestyle trend go by. As more and more companies begin to promote organic skincare lines, Lancome has decided to take it one step further by taking part in a green initiative with Carbonfund.org. The one who initiated the effort? Lancome’s own spokesmodel, Elettra Rossellini Wiedemann.

Carbonfund.org is a nonprofit organization that educates the public about the dangers of climate change and makes it easy and affordable for individuals, businesses and organizations to reduce their climate impact. Their website even has a Carbon Calculator where you can see how much CO2 you are responsible for (mine was 61.01 tons of CO2 per year--yikes). The organization gives you simple tips to reduce how much CO2 you are responsible for such as things you can do for your home, car and when traveling.

According to WWD, Lancome will participate in a climate offset program that involves a paperless press office, where pictures, releases and videos will be accessible via the Internet; retrofitting its four freestanding Lancome boutiques to reduce their carbon footprints, as well as, planting a tree for each of the first 10,000 bottles of the new Primordiale Cell Defense & Skin Perfecting Serum sold in the U.S. when it launches in June.

Tarte Cosmetics--Inside Out nutraceutical lipgloss, Sunburst Beaded Bronzing Lotion

Unilever--Dove Pro-Age (Skin care line)

Calvin Klein--Euphoria Blossom (fragrance)

Vera Wang--Truly Pink (fragrance)

Serge Lutens—Rousse (fragrance)

Smashbox--Limited Edition Tokidoki Collection (cosmetic line)

Rimmel--Underground (cosmetic line)

M-A-C Cosmetics--Raquel Welch Beauty Icon Collection, Barbie loves MAC

Guerlain--Terracotta Spray Bronzing Powder Mist

Balmain--La Mome (fragrance)

Chanel--Les Exclusifs de Chanel (fragrance) *Available at 16 select Chanel boutiques and Bergdorf Goodman.

Do you have a beauty product launching this month? Please be sure to let us know so that it can be added to this February calendar.

With a very bold question mark, that is exactly what I was thinking when I read this headline in Global Cosmetic Industry Magazine. Global Cosmetic Industry Magazine only reported on the gloss and gave no opinion either way to support the claim, however, all sorts of questions popped into my head, as I am sure it would for anyone hearing that a lip gloss has been produced and can help you lose weight. The lip gloss, Promise, is made by Omega Tech Labs and claims that it’s users and dr. have confirmed weight loss through using it.

When scouring the internet for information about this product, I found out that it came out in April of 2006. I’m not sure why I haven't heard about this product before. Maybe because if it really worked it would be all over the news? I obviously can't say for sure, since I have never actually tried this product.

Promise is made of essential oils that are indeed known to be appetite suppressants and the website says that by licking your lips these oils are delivered into your blood stream. Some things that pop out at me are the lack of directional use; how many times a day do you apply it and is there such thing as lip gloss overdose? Sounds silly, but when a lip gloss is meant as a means to lose weight, you do have to wonder. Also, the website simply states, "Many people have lost weight and keep it off." How many is "many," how much weight did they lose, how long did they keep it off, how many tubes of Promise were the norm for an average weight loss, and honestly, my questions go on and on and on. The testimonies page simply shows 3 testimonies of weight loss, two of which are quite strangely, from the same town.

I don't want to be one to put down a product I have never used, so if you have used Promise, I invite you to leave your thoughts about it in our comments.

When it comes to makeup, I think there is one product that women can't seem to live without, yet never seem satisfied with: mascara. How many of you run out to purchase the latest and greatest mascara advertised in Glamour or that you heard about on your favorite beauty blog? I started a poll on my personal beauty blog to find out which product my readers felt they couldn't live without. I did it with a feeling that the #1 response would be mascara, and so far, my intuition has proven correct.

What is this fascination with our eyelashes that we will try each and every brand of mascara on the market and pay varying amounts of money just to achieve long, lustful looking lashes? Is it because some mascara's make promises that they don't come through on? Does the brand we have satisfy us until another promises thicker, fuller, longer lashes? I know that for myself, I am indeed a mascara junkie. I've always been one, but now being a Beauty Blogger I've gained more access to acquiring more brands. My husband saw that I had 5 mascara's on the counter the other day and pondered why just one wasn't enough. My only response was that I used a particular brand based on my mood.

When was the last time the life of your lipstick came to an end and you simply planted it’s packaging in the ground only to grow something green and beautiful? Sound a little out of the ordinary? With Cargo’s new PlantLove packaging you can now beautify yourself and the earth at the same time.

Available just this month at Sephora, Cargo Cosmetics has launched PlantLove, the first ever botanical lipstick in 100% biodegradable packaging. The lipstick tube is greenhouse gas-neutral made entirely out of corn and the box is made of recycled paper and infused with plant seeds. Simply wet the box, plant it and viola, not only did you just buy a lipstick, but you began a garden as well.

Of course their always has to be more to a product than its packaging and PlantLove’s lipsticks come in a gorgeous array of colors and the lipstick is made of meadowfoam seed oil, orchid waters, shea butter and jojoba. It is petroleum and mineral oil free. Celebrities such as, Evangeline Lily, Courteney Cox and Lindsay Lohan created five of the twelve lipstick colors.

As if a botanical lipstick and a flowerbed made from its packaging wasn’t enough, $2 from every purchase of a PlantLove lipstick is donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Now there’s a beauty product that does double duty. Have you used PlantLove? Let us know what you think of it.

Lulu Beauty Creme Rouge
4.5 out of 5 Stars

The color I received was called Pinup and in its container it appeared to be a dark color. I crossed my fingers and hoped I didn’t look like a harlot when I was done applying it. As with the Lip Lustre, the color looked lovely on me. I found that it was the kind of color you could build on...Read more.

MAXwear Eyeshadow
4 out of 5 Stars

The two eyeshadows I received from Max Factor to try was their Toast to That trio and Baja Bronze. As soon as I saw them, I knew they were going to look fabulous with my hazel eyes. Toast to That is a light creamy pink color, a darker mix of plum and brown, and a soft lavender color. It’s very pretty. Baja Bronze is a cream color, a nice brownish forest green and bronze...Read more.

Jane Iredale's Liquid Minerals
5 out of 5 Stars

When I received my Liquid Minerals (in Warm Sienna), I stared at it curiously. The bottle said it was foundation, but any mineral foundation I have ever used has been a dry powder. So I pressed the pump to find minerals encapsulated in aloe vera gel. jane’s website says that two pumps on the back of your hand are enough to cover your entire face. She recommends using a foundation brush to apply it, but since I didn’t have one handy, I just used a sponge wedge...Read more.

Esthetic Plus Tweezers
5 out of 5 Stars

Yesterday I received my Esthetic Plus tweezers and quickly ran up to the bathroom to end the misery of my overgrown brows. Elke knew what she was talking about; these tweezers rock. I received the slanted tweezer with the non-slip grip...Read more.

All beauty mavens know that when Bobbi Brown launches a product, many times it sells out fast, as was the case with her Chocolate Palette. Below are the products that are new to her line. So if you see something you love, my advice is to scoop it up fast.

Living Beauty Palette
This is a Limited Edition makeup palette inspired by her book “Bobbi Brown Living Beauty” that recently came out on February 15th. This palette has a gorgeous array of colors for lips, cheeks and eyes that require more than a glance.

Eye Brightener
This lightweight under eye coverage gives eyes a brighter look while concealing dark circles. If you pull all nighter’s working or simply don’t get enough sleep, you can fool everyone looking like an 8 hour well rested beauty with this Eye Brightener.

Brightening Lip Gloss
These four new glosses (and who doesn’t love lip gloss?) are infused with brightening pearls giving your lips a fuller look. You can wear them alone or in combination with her Lip Colors.

Tawny Shimmer Brick & Lip Kit
Everyone always raves about Bobbi Brown’s bricks. The Tawny Shimmer brick is a mood brightening color with 4 lip colors in the palette to beat the winter blah’s while we wait for Spring to make its arrival.

Bridal Face Palette
Another Limited Edition palette by Bobbi Brown should have all brides-to-be scooping up this kit. When you want to look your best on your wedding day, why put your face into anyone else’s hands?

Exclusive Face Palette for the Pro’s
Even if you’re not a pro, this face palette will keep you busy for a long while as it contains all of the concealer and foundation shades in Bobbi’s BBU collection.

Formulated by renowned Beverly Hills dermatologist Stuart H. Kaplan, M.D., kaplanMD Skincare is a revolutionary collection of treatments specifically designed to prevent and treat all 3 types of skin aging caused by Time, Hormonal Imbalances and Environmental Damage.

Rich in patented peptides, botanical extracts, and amino acids, every kaplanMD product contains no less than 10 active ingredients. In addition, every kaplanMD product is enriched with an an exclusive Phytogenic Triactive Complex of organic Soy to firm and plump skin, Grapeseed extract to combat free-radicals, and exotic Black Cohosh to keep skin youthful and supple.

The kaplanMD collection is a potent 4-piece skin renewal system that gently cleanses, soothes, hydrates and renews your skin. Each product contains no less than 10 active ingredients specifically formulated to prevent all 3 types of skin aging, which are caused by time, hormonal imbalances, and sun damage. kaplanMD pH-balanced treatments work synergistically to deliver beautiful, more radiant skin in four easy steps.

Only kaplanMD contains 10 active ingredients in each product to combat all 3 types of skin aging in 1 concise and synergistic line! The result is healthy, radiant and glowing skin — for life.

Today when I made a trip down to my local CVS, I decided to browse through their new cosmetics section and came upon Physicians Formula’s newest products. While I decided to pick up their new Conceal Rx in soft green, I looked at their CoverToxTen50 with some skepticism. CoverToxTen50 is their new face powder that they say will reduce wrinkles by 50% in 10 minutes, by 90% in 10 hours and by day 10 one should expect to see visibly smoother skin.

I’ll preface this by saying I have not tried the product nor is this a review, but I have to wonder how a face powder can reduce wrinkles in 10 minutes. I looked through the ingredients and did some research to see if there was anything miraculous involved. I decided to go to Paula Begoun’s cosmetic ingredient listing to see if I could decipher which ingredients Physician’s Formula was claiming to be the wrinkle reducer. It is the Aminobutyric Acid that is considered the GABA technology listed on the package as a time-release formula to lessen the appearance of wrinkles. According to Paula, GABA Aminobutyric Acid is an amino acid synthesized in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter inhibitor. GABA is used in cosmetics with claims of being a wrinkle reducer and is said to relax muscles, however there are no substantiated scientific studies to back this up. As Paula notes, topical application of GABA in no way has the same effect that it would internally.

Korres Hair & Scalp Scrub
5 out of 5 Stars

Between my pregnancy hormones wreaking havoc on my skin and hair and this super cold winter weather, my scalp is so dry. This was the first time in my life that I actually had dry skin coming off my scalp into my hair. I was mortified. I tried so many deep conditioners hoping that it would resolve the issue, but unfortunately the outlook for flakeless hair was looking dim. Then I received a boxload of products from Korres, one being their Hair and Scalp Scrub, an intensive treatment with green silt and corallina oligoelements..Read More.

Love N.1 from The Soul Collection
4 out of 5 Stars

Love N.1 is a handcrafted (by Andrea herself) organic perfume available in a base of organic jojoba oil or organic grape alcohol. It is available in an eau de parfum spray, body oil and whipped body butter. The fragrance is comprised of: Cocoa Absolute, Pink Lotus, Cassia, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Tuberrose, Rose (Turkish) Vanilla and Blood Orange...Read more.

Max Factor Erase Secret Cover Up
4 out of 5 Stars

The color I tried out, was perfect for my skin color. I received Medium, which is for cool and warm tones. I fall somewhere in between. I loved that I could “erase” some of the ruddiness to my skintone and cover those red blemish scars on my chin. I also loved that the color blended with my skin, not making it obvious that I had concealer on. I’ve used concealers in the past that just looked orange, cakey and just plain obvious...Read more.

Absence by Jane Iredale
4 out of 5 Stars

Once I applied Absence prior to using my Liquid Minerals, I noticed a big difference. While Absence feels thick and balmy at first, it absorbs into your skin and becomes lightweight, just like the Liquid Minerals. I then used the Liquid Minerals over it and brushed on the Pure Pressed Powder (review to come). My face looked matte, with no shine present...Read more.

NYX Cosmetics Trio Eyeshadow
4 out of 5 Stars

When I had thought I had enough eyeshadows, I came across NYX Cosmetics. I don’t get too excited over color when I receive a product, but I received the Trio Eyeshadow in Pearl, Silver and Charcoal; colors I have never used on my eyes before...Read more.

Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Base SPF 18
5 out of 5 Stars

The PurePressed Base is a mineral concealer, foundation, powder and sunscreen all in one. I received mine in Warm Sienna, which is a warm tone. The compact comes with a puff to apply the powder, but I have been using a facial brush and this puff interchangably...Read more.

e.l.f. Eye Makeup Remover
1 out of 5 Stars

There are so many products by e.l.f. that I love. Their Hypershine Gloss, Moisture Care Lip Color, Super Glossy Lip Shine and Nail Polish Remover Pads to name a few. However, the Eye Makeup Remover is sadly not on that list of love...Read more.

Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover
2 out of 5 Stars

It basically looks very similar to the Mary Kay makeup remover I had been using previously, except that it doesn’t have the holed cap to prevent over doing it when putting some on a cotton pad. It removed my eye makeup without issue. With my previous makeup remover, I could also use it on my face, which I tried to do with this and just ended up feeling like an oil slick...Read more.

The Makeup Show is an industry trade show that promotes networking, education and hands-on workshops. Unlike other Beauty trade shows, The Makeup Show focuses soley on the cosmetic industry. Run by the Powder Group and hosted at the Metropolitan Pavilion, last year’s event was a true cosmetics industry first with such industry giants as Sam Fine and Billy B. offering their expertise and well known brands such as M.A.C., Stila, Jane Iredale Cosmetics and Face Atelier educating makeup professionals on their brands. This year’s event is sure to be just as successful with 50 brands currently on the roster, including Shu Uemera, Awake Cosmetics and Becca Cosmetics, to showcase their products and promote their new lines.

This is a pro-only trade show and you must be an industry professional to be allowed entry into The Makeup Show; proof of profession and/or fashion/stylist/cosmetic student ID will be required, tickets must be purchased in advanced. My friend Elke von Freudenberg, who is a celebrity makeup artist, attended this event last year and said that the talents and education by Billy B. alone made it worth attending. Billy B. is on the schedule to once again grace those who attend with his exceptional wealth of talent.

I had never heard of Mode Cosmetics until its owners, Cristina Samuels and Jennifer Isaac, contacted me to give them a look. Mode Cosmetics is out of New York and prides themselves on using as many natural ingredients, botanicals and essential oils as possible, including organic, kosher and biodegradable ingredients. Mode doesn’t believe in being wasteful when it comes to packaging, which is one of the ways they are able to keep the price of their products very affordable.

Not only was I impressed with the high quality ingredients listed in each product, but that both women grew up immersed in their parent’s cosmetics company and took their love for beauty onto another level to create their own brand. Both Ms. Samuels and Ms. Isaac are actively involved in designing, formulating and creating their products. While their line may not be extensive at the present time, they have many new products in the works that will be added to their line up soon. It shows their integrity in painstakingly working with a product to ensure that it delivers on its promise before launching it for purchase.

Jane Iredale PureMoist LipColour SPF 18
5 out of 5 Stars

This is lipstick my friends. Not just any lipstick, either. I’ve been wearing glosses for so long, I forgot what it was like to feel more than just pretty in a good lipstick. I received jane iredale’s PureMoist LipColour in Carmen. The color looked great, and somehow even made my lips appear fuller (are my eyes playing tricks on me?) What I loved most though, was that this lipstick was so silky smooth and never feathered...Read more.

Benefit Cosmetics Lyin Eyes
5 out of 5 Stars

It’s ok to lie sometimes, especially when it comes to your beauty secrets. This handy little pen, has now become my biggest beauty secret when I have barely had sleep and have huge dark circles under my eyes. Lyin Eyes, by Benefit Cosmetics, is a concealer that comes in only one color and goes on wet, but within seconds becomes powder dry...Read more.

NYX Tinted Lip Spa
5 out of 5 Stars

I received this little blessing a little over a week ago and have had a hard time not applying it everyday (my other lip products sometimes beg to be used). My Tinted Lip Spa came in Copacabana, which is a nice peach color. It doesn’t color your lips like gloss or lipstick, it just gives your lips a slight hint of color with a little shine while moisturizing your lips at the same time...Read more.

Max Factor Lash Perfection Volume Couture Mascara
5 out of 5 Stars

This mascara was chosen to be the exclusive mascara used at Milan’s Fashion Week, so it definitely had some expectations to live up to. This mascara uses the patent-pending iFX brush technology that the other Lash Perfection mascara’s use. Unlike the typical mascara brush, the iFX brush is like a modeled plastic comb with more space, called micro-channels, to give you more coverage without the clumps...Read more.

I don’t know about you, but I love watching America’s Next Top Model just for Jay Manuel. You also would be hard pressed to find me skipping past E! when he is a guest on any of their Red Carpet shows. Jay Manuel is also the star of the Style Network’s Style Her Famous series and has his own line of cosmetics, Manual Override. Is there anything this top sought after makeup artist can’t do?

The thing you recognize most about Jay Manuel is his talent. His work can be seen in top fashion magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar and In Style and through the faces of Tyra Banks, Iman and Jennifer Lopez. The Jay Manuel “look” is flawless, chic and distinctive. Whenever I see him, I can honestly say that he is the one guy that can pull off wearing makeup simply because he looks utterly gorgeous without a single imperfection; he just displays a clean canvas look that every woman desires for her own complexion.

Jay’s new cosmetics line is also just as innovative as his skills as a makeup artist. Manual Override doesn’t offer eye shadows, blushes or foundations to replace what you currently use, but instead he offers products to compliment and enhance the look of the various products you love and use each day. One thing that stands out among his products is the intention to ensure that these products protect your face by laying atop the skin’s surface and not settling into your fine lines for a more perfected appearance and longer wear.

Ramy Rise and Shine Plumping Lip Gloss
1 out of 5 Stars

I’m not sure what to think about this lip plumper. When I use a plumper, I expect to see immediate results. Would you agree? The website says that this plumper works without the burning and tingling effects, so I knew not to expect this. However, I’m not sure exactly how it is supposed to cause any plumping action without “irritating” your lips into puffing up...Read more.

Lumene Beauti-full Plumping Lipshine
1 out of 5 Stars

Lumene Beauti-full Plumping Lipshine was the first lip plumper I tested. I chose it to be the first because it looked more like lipstick than gloss. Plus the color, Smiling, was really pretty. What they say: 3D plumping effect: Maxi-lips ingredient helps to stimulate collagen, which makes your lips look fuller. Unique blend of light reflecting, wet shine pearls intensify the plumping effect...Read more.

Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips
2 out of 5 Stars

There was definitely high shine with this plumping gloss. I immediately began to feel that “burning” sensation everyone has been telling me about. The gloss was thin and I made sure to apply the same amount of gloss to both lips. After about 10 minutes and the burning sensation making me feel like I had puffer lips, I ran excitedly to the bathroom to get a look in the mirror. Alas, they looked exactly the same as when I applied the plumping gloss...Read more.

DuWop Venom Gloss
3 out of 5 Stars

The color I used was Wisteria, which is amazingly gorgeous and a color I have deeply fallen in love with. The gloss has a high shine that just lights up my entire face when I wear it. I began to feel the burning sensation within a minute of applying the gloss and my lips did appear to be slightly plumper than they were prior...Read more.

We're always looking for a way to make our lip color last the entire day, to make our lips look fuller without the burning and stinging of lip plumpers or how to get that great matte look. I was able to tap into the expertise of my Makeup Artist friend Elke von Freudenberg for a few tricks on just how to accomplish the above.

A way to keep lipstick on all day is to avoid lipstick all together. First, apply a "lip-friendly" colored eye shadow on dry lips with an flat eye shadow brush.

Next apply your favorite lip gloss in clear or a colored gloss to create a custom color. The eye shadow powder gives the gloss something to stick too and lasts hours longer than gloss by itself.

The Finished Lip

For a trick that works just as well in real life as it does in front of the camera, try this tip to make small lips appear fuller. Apply a concealer pencil, or concealer with a brush around the outside line of the lip and blend well. The lightness makes lips appear fuller and more prominent.

Need to change a lipstick or gloss fast? Take a Q-tip spritzed with water or toner and roll off the lipstick. Make sure you roll from the outside corners of the mouth inwards. This trick works great when lipstick color changes must be done fast.

To create the perfect lip line, take concealer on a pointed concealer brush and lightly trace around the lip after you've applied lipstick. This creates a perfect line to the lipstick and gives a sharper edge.

The matte lip is back, but with a softer feel. To create this look easily, apply a favorite lip color. Separate a Kleenex so it's 1-ply and place over the lips. With a small eye shadow or fluff brush, lightly apply a loose neutral or translucent powder through the Kleenex. The right amount of powder will go through to create a soft matte mouth without the dry look and feel.

Finished Matte Lip

Besame Cosmetics Enriched Lip Glaze
4 out of 5 Stars

My previous encounter with Besame Cosmetics Enriched Lip Glaze was a positive one; this time is no different. I was in love with their Chocolate Lip Glaze when it was just a small sample and recently I was sent Cotton Candy and Shimmer Peach...Read more.

Benefit Cosmetics Moon Beam
3.5 out of 5 Stars

Moon Beam is a highlighter that is a natural golden pink. While the site says it works best on olive, tan and darker skin tones, it made my pale complexion shimmer. I made X's at the apple of each cheek as the box recommended and then blended with my finger tips. I believe this is a product you can wear all over your face, but since I am shiny to begin with, I decided I would use other products to tone down the shine on most of my face, but leave Moon Beam on my cheeks...Read more.

Booty Parlor I'm So Sexy Lip Gloss
3 out of 5 Stars

Loved the color of both of these glosses. The pink is really subtle with such a super fabulous shine. The peppermint reminds me of candy canes. The Cinnamon Shine was red and looked great alone and I even put it over my Jane Iredale lipstick, which really gave it a whole new dimension...Read more.

Jane Iredale Cream to Powder Eyeliner
5 out of 5 Stars

I recieved her Cream to Powder Eyeliner in Black Plus, which is quite nice. It has 3 colors: Black, a greyish blue and a slate color. Application is super easy, as you don't have to wet your brush to apply them. Actually, I sometimes even use my finger to give my eyes that smokey look to them. The cream glides on smooth and quickly turns to powder...Read more.

Reviews tend to sway me when thinking about purchasing a product, most especially when it comes to a beauty product. I recently saw an ad for Blinc’s Kiss Me Mascara in the quarterly beauty magazine, New Beauty. The advertisement caught my attention when it boasted being a non-traditional mascara in that the formula actually encapsulates your lashes in tubes. Tubes? I found it intriguing and decided to take a look through the blogosphere to figure out if this was a product that really worked and the science behind it.

My first stop was at TeamSugar. When the words, “Holy grail of mascara” somehow find their way into a review, you pay attention. The TeamSugar reviewer loved this product and highly recommended it. Beauty & Fashion Tech gave it a try, and while she loved its ease of use for a contact lense wearer like herself, she wasn’t so enamored with the clumping. Best Beauty Answers loved it and proclaims boldly, “It works!” I also went to Amazon.com to check out the reviews for this product and it gets 4.5 out of 5 stars. The majority of reviews (there were 17) raved about this product, but the two things reviewers “complained” about was lack of volume and that if you weren’t quick to comb out your lashes the mascara would clump.

Of course, my last stop was at the Beauty Brains, who are a pair of cosmetic chemists that explained exactly how this product worked:

Unlike most mascaras which are made with waxes, Blinc’s Kiss Me is formulated with acrylate polymers. These polymers are similar to the ones used in hairsprays and they’re what give Kiss Me its ability to form tiny tubes.”

Over the last several months, I’ve noticed more and more beauty brands announcing that they are going on tour. Of course, what better way to capture a beauty addicts attention than to lure her in with a beauty tour. I’m sure anyone who has a favorite beauty brand or just loves all beauty products in general will admit to the fun of indulging in some pampering while socializing with others who share their same love for beauty products.

Since last year we’ve seen several beauty tours make their way across the US, most only going to major cities. Last October CoverGirl promoted their new LashExact mascara by traveling to 8 US locations and giving away the mascara for free when guests turned in their department store brand. They traveled in a hard to miss purple van to generate the buzz as they traveled.

Last month Laura Geller didn’t just hold a tour, she had a cruise. On March 25th fans of Laura Geller booked their 7-night cruise on Carnival Cruise Lines and headed to the Bahamas. While on the cruise Ms. Geller gave makeup seminars. What a great way to relax while traveling with your favorite beauty brand and learning directly from the owner herself? Beginning last month and continuing into this month the Style Network has Garnier and Maybelline hitching a ride on their tour bus as they travel the country to give makeovers and promote the charity Dress for Success. Then of course, there is the BE Fan Tour traveling the country. Bare Escentuals has a cult-like following that has made them very successful and already their upcoming tour date in Chicago is sold out.

It’s obvious that the brands listed above understand that interacting with their consumers on their home turf promotes a relationship that is incapable of being established just from making a purchase at the store. Not only will it create loyalty and a buzz, but it will get the brand’s fan’s talking and doing much of the promoting for them. A happy customer, after all, is your best advertisement.

What do you think? Are beauty tours something we will see more of this year?

Benefit Cosmetics Dr. Feelgood
3.5 out of 5 Stars

Back in December I received Benefit Cosmetics’ Dr. Feelgood. Dr. Feelgood is an invisible balm meant to matte the skin by absorbing excess oil. I tried this product by applying it two different ways; over my makeup and under my makeup. The product was much smaller than I thought it would be, however, you don’t need very much at all for coverage...Read more.

Korres Jasmin Eye Makeup Remover
5 out of 5 Stars

I think I have found the Holy Grail of makeup removers. I really hadn’t ventured on past my MK Oil-free Makeup remover and Neutrogena Oil-free makeup remover. I had given up hope that there really was a true non-greasy feeling makeup remover out there. They may be oil-free, but I hate the aloe vera “oil slick” feeling after using them. So I was sent Korres Jasmine Eye Makeup Remover and told it was oil-free. I didn’t have high hopes for it if I am being honest, but willing to to give it a shot...Read more.

theBalm Plump Your Pucker
1 out of 5 Stars

Are all lip plumpers made equal? Do they all contain this elusive “Maxi-Lip” technology? If this is the case–they need to go back to the drawing board and re-formulate. theBalm Plump your pucker was next on my list of lip plumpers to try out. Bing my Cherry is a yummy scented Cherry colored gloss that also tastes like cherry. I noticed that Plump your pucker brought on that tingly burning sensation within a few seconds of application...Read more.

NYX Cream Rouge and Powder Blush
4 out of 5 Stars

I received both NYX Cosmetic’s Cream Rouge and Powder Blush recently. The Cream Rouge came in that bright pink color shone here. I was a little nervous about using a color that looked like hot pink. However, I found that as I worked the color in and blended it with my other makeup, it seemed to appear more of a “rosy glow” type color than “I am stuck in the 80’s” type color. I didn’t really need much product at all to highlight the apples of my cheeks. I applied it using a wedge sponge because I really didn’t want bright pink fingertips...Read more.

Women’s Wear Daily had an article today that brought attention to one of the newest beauty trends going on that involves pomegranate. Last year we began to see the trend when it came to food products, but now it has made the cross over to skin care and cosmetics as well.

Studies have shown pomegranates to have powerful antioxidant properties. These properties are not only beneficial to our health when we eat the fruit or when it is an ingredient in a food product, but it is also beneficial in topical skin care. Pomegranates are said to promote the regeneration of cells in the two most important layers of healthy skin, the epidermis and dermis. One of my favorite facial moisturizers is Korres Pomegranate Balancing Moisturizer. It’s perfect for my combination skin and also the elasticity as I get older. (The scent is pretty intoxicating as well.)

One of the cosmetic lines that I use is Jane Iredale’s, which is mineral makeup with skin care benefits. Most of Jane Iredale’s products contain pomegranate extract. As Jane notes on her website:

"According to researchers from the University of Wisconsin, it’s also a promising agent against skin cancer. Researchers assessed the effect of skin application of pomegranate extract on induced skin tumors. The skin pretreated with pomegranate extract showed substantially reduced tumor incidence.”

Jane Iredale’s Pom Mist is a facial spritzer that contains pomegranate extract to keep your skin healthy and as a base to set her mineral powders. Some of her other products that contain pomegranate extract are her Matte Loose Finish Powder, Pure Gloss, eye shadows and so on. You can check out her website and type in “pomegranate extract” to pull up the complete listing of products that contain this ingredient.

The pomegranate bandwagon is definitely one trend that is advantageous to get in on. With nothing but health benefits for our skin, it’s one ingredient that I don’t mind seeing so many brands adding to their beauty products.

Tarte Cosmetics Cheek Stain
5 out of 5 Stars

Tarte sent me flush and tipsy. Flush is said to be that “just in from the cold/cozying up by the fire” type color and tipsy, well described to be the color you get when you’ve have one too many. I first looked at flush and thought, “Yikes, red and purple sort of!” I was afraid of this plumb red color. As we get deeper into the winter, my skin just seems to get paler and paler. I thought it would be too dark/bright, but I was wrong...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Inside Out Nutraceutical Lip Gloss
3 out of 5 Stars

Back in January I was sent Inside Out, which was collaborated on with tarte Cosmetics and Borba. You can click back to the press release to hear all about the benefits of this lip gloss. Have I ever used a nutraceutical lip gloss before? No. So I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I’ve also never used Borba’s products before, so again, not sure if the product would live up to its claims...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara
4 out of 5 Stars

If there is one thing I think rocks about tarte, it has got to be their packaging. This mascara comes in a purple leather top and bottom. It really makes you feel like you are about to indulge in something special. Their mascara uses the “old school” wand for application, but that was just fine by me although I am totally in love with the new modable plastic wands now on the market by other brands...Read more.

Tarte Cosmetics Mineral Powder Bronzer
4 out of 5 Stars

I received Hotel Heiress and was a little nervous that it would be too dark for my pale skin, however, it was the perfect pick me up to bring me from porcelin doll to a living and breathing person...Read more.

For those of you who absolutely adore the extremely talented Billy B., you will be as excited as I am to hear that he got the greenlight for a pilot for his own show on Bravo! Read on...

From Bravo's Press Room:

Bravo announced the development deal for "The Beauty Foundation," a potential docu-drama series following Billy Brasfield (known as Billy B. in the fashion industry), a world-renowned make-up artist leading a jet-set lifestyle tending to clients around the globe. When he isn't charging $5,000 to prepare a celebrity for a photo shoot, he's down south trying to rebuild his tiny Mississippi hometown. The clash between the high-gloss make-up artist lifestyle and the grit of restoration projects provides a fascinating look at this unique individual and the many challenges he faces moving between two different worlds.

Spring looks call for a bright, fresh face inspired by pretty pink shades that accentuate clean, healthy skin. A healthy flush with plenty of highlighting is what ruled the runway for Spring 2007. Jane Iredale epitomizes this radiant look with the new Power of Pink Collection.

The Power of Pink Collection consists of Think Pink PurePressed Triple Eye Shadow, which contains a light baby-pink base, a vivid pink shade for definition and a deep raspberry accent color. I have hazel eyes and these pink shades really made my eye color pop. The pink shades really blend so well together and are just the right highlight to an overall polished look.

Kirsten PureMoist LipColour and Cotton Candy PureGloss are also part of the collection. Kirsten, which is a berry pink color, was inspired by Kirsten Dunst of Spiderman and Marie Antoinette fame. Like all of the PureMoist LipColours, Kristen contains no chemical preservatives or synthetic dyes. The rich color comes strictly from iron oxides and carmine. It also has an SPF of 18 with edible zinc oxide. I think the PureMoist LipColours are fabulous and you can see my previous review of them here.

The Cotton Candy PureGloss is a flirty pink formulated in a base of organic vegetable oils, has a tingly mint flavor and contains grape see and pomegranate extracts to keep lips moisturized, protected and nourished. I love the scent and shimmer to this gloss, which is also perfect to add over your lipstick to give it a little more oomph.

Lastly, the Power of Pink Collection contains Jane Iredale’s Lid Primer. This Lid Primer is a lemon yellow, which is great at balancing out the redness on our eyelids that many of us contend with. The Lid Primer contains hydrated silica to control oil therefore preventing creasing with your shadow.

Jane Iredale Media Contact:
Beauty PR Division: Lauren at piercemattie dot com

Dr. Stuart Kaplan, one of the nation's leading dermatologists and the creative mind behind the skincare line KaplanMD, recently wrote an article to distinguish the difference between Botox, a muscle relaxer, and dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane. If you are not aware of the difference and how each product works, the article below is a good start to understand the difference between the two.

Botox vs. Fillers: How To Choose The Best One For You
By Stuart H. Kaplan, M.D. Beverly Hills Dermatologist

It is important to understand the difference between Botox, a muscle relaxer, and Juvederm, Restylane, Collagen, etc. which are fillers. The easiest way to visualize the difference is to think of a crease as a valley between two mountains. Botox prevents the mountains from being pushed together, and fillers fill in the valley.

Before Botox®Cosmetic

After Botox®Cosmetic

Injectable Wrinkle Fillers: The differences between fillers has to do with thickness and longevity. In general, the thicker the filler, the better it will fill creases, but the greater the chance of possible bumps. Bumps are more likely in thinner skin such as the lower eyelids, and crows feet. Zyderm (a type of Collagen), and Restylane Fine Line are the least thick and can be used around the eyes, but they are also the shortest lasting. Juvederm Ultra Plus is one of the longer lasting hyaluronic acid fillers. It can be used for deeper creases. Juvederm Ultra Plus can last between 3 and 6 months.

Fillers can also be used to improve or enhance facial structures such as:

* Filling in acne scars
* Enhancing cheek bones to make them fuller and more defined
* Enlarging lips for a fuller, softer pout
* Correcting lip deformities or asymmetry
* Non-surgical nose-job to fill in dips and valleys in the nose bridge
* Filling in hollows under the eyes that contribute to dark circles

Before Restylane Injection

After Restylane Injection

Other new trends include:

* Nipple enhancement
* Vaginal rejuvenation
* Injecting into the soles of the feet to make wearing high heeled shoes more comfortable

NYX Cosmetics is launching a new mineral compact powder in May, Black Label Compact, available in 20 shades. The new Black Label Compact is a sunscreen, powder, foundation, and concealer all in one that offers a shine free, flawless finish. It contains no chemicals or preservatives so it is perfect for sensitive and acne prone skin.

Another NYX product soon to launch is the Black Label Lipstick. This lipstick is super creamy, has a velvety texture, and is silky smooth and moisturizing. It will be available in 144 fabulous colors, which means you can have your lips covered one color a day for almost 5 months.

I'm sure the new Black Label line will be just as fabulous as NYX Cosmetic's other products, as I am an absolute fan of their high quality, yet affordable prices. NYX Cosmetics are available at Ulta, Duane Reade, Longs Drugs, beauty supply stores nationwide, and www.NYXCosmetics.com.

Here are links to some of my reviews on different NYX Cosmetic's products:

Super Volume Lip Plumper
Trio Eyeshadow
Cream Rouge & Powder Blush
Tinted Lip Spa

Media Contact:
Beauty PR Division: Maryam at piercemattie dot com

Korres Lemon Anti-Shine Gel
4 out of 5 Stars

Always on the hunt for an anti-shine product that will last for hours on end, I received Korres Lemon Anti-Shine Gel to see if it could combat my oily t-zone. I’ve been applying the anti-shine gel as part of a step by step process in my facial routine, which have made my skincare issues turn around 360 degrees. I have been exclusively been using only Korres skin care products on my face and the results have been amazing...Read more.

Kiss My Face Tinted Moisturizer
5 out of 5 Stars

I love when I get to try a product I have never tried before. It really helps to come into a review without having any preconceived notions about how it should work. 1. I’ve never used a tinted moisturizer. 2. I’ve never used Kiss My Face. So it was a double whammy with Kiss My Face’s Tinted Moisturizer in Sisal, which is for light coverage. This moisturizer has an SPF of 8 and its oil and fragrance free. LOVE the oil free part because then it means less shine to contend with for my combination skin...Read more.

Lumiere Mineral Cosmetics
4.5 out of 5 Stars

While I absolutely love every product I received, my most favorite has been the Lavender Pearl eyeshadow. Even my mother remarked on how gorgeous the color was and asked where she could get it. Lavender Pearl is a pinky lavender with an opal-like sheen. The picture on the site does not do it justice. It has an iridescent shimmer to it. This is the product I have been using to make my eyes really pop...Read more.

Kiss My Face 3 Way Color
4.5 out of 5 Stars

After trying Kiss My Face’s Tinted Moisturizer, I was intrigued to try out their 3 Way Color product. I received mine in Heather, which is a light frosted berry looking color. The 3 Way Color can be used on your lips, cheeks and eyes. Kiss My Face’s 3 Way Color has an SPF of 8 and is moisturizing with olive and mango butter. The scent is completely delicious and its a mix of pink grapefruit, pomegranate, rasberry and white grape...Read more.

Billy B., one of the most assessable and talented makeup artists in the beauty industry, is going on tour doing seminars for The Powder Group. The American Beauty Tour will feature Billy B with seminars from a pro-artist perspective. See below for complete details and be sure to be on the lookout for my Industry Experts Profiles interview with Billy B in the coming weeks on our main blog.

Summer/Fall 2007 - The Powder Group is pleased to bring you our first round-the-country tour of one of the biggest talents in the makeup industry. Please join us as we travel the land celebrating the art of makeup with the incomprable Billy B!

Billy's stellar career counts some of the most well known women in the industry as clients including Beyonce, Sharon Stone, Pink, Mary J Blige, The Dixie Chicks, Laura Linney and on.... Check out Billy's website at billybbeauty.com

The tour will include pro-driven, consumer-friendly seminars that include product talk, tips and technique, as well as the opportunity to network and share your passion for makeup artistry with your peers.

The first leg of the tour will hit Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York, Dallas, Atlanta and a special benefit event for Unlocking Hope in the great city of New Orleans.

The Powder Group is pleased to announce W Hotels and behindthechair.com as our tour partner for the Billy B event series.

Tour dates are as follows:

San Francisco July 22

Los Angeles July 29

Dallas August 19

Chicago August 26

New York City September 23

Atlanta October 7

New Orleans Date TBD

In each city, Billy B will present two seminars. Each seminar will last two and a half hours and consist of two application demonstrations, question and answer period, as well as loads of discussion with Billy. The format of each seminar will be the same, although looks demonstrated may change during each seminar.

Billy will have his new collection of billybbeauty paintbrushes available for the special purchase price of 145.00 at the events.

The seminars have been developed from the pro-artist perspective, but as always, Billy's incredible talent and dynamic personality are a fascinating experience for all attendees pro's and non-pros alike!

In each city the event times are 10:00am - 1:30pm and 2:30pm - 5:00pm

Event fee is $145.00 per seminar.

To register or for more information please call 866.876.9337 or email info@thepowdergroup.com

Urban Apothecary Super Gloss

Naturally, as a lip gloss addict, the first product from Urban Apothecary that I had to review was their Super Gloss. This super generous tube of gloss had my name written all over it when I spotted it in the box. I received both Super Nectar and Super Charming. Super Nectar is a beautiful peach color and Super Charming is light pink...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Mineral Sheer Tint

On Urban Apothecary’s website, the description for the Mineral Sheer Tint uses the word “perfect” several times. I couldn’t agree more. This multi-mineral tinted foundation goes on smooth and leaves a beautiful dewy finish. The coverage is perfect and the foundation feels feather light...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Mineral Sheer Radiance

My Mineral Sheer Radiance is in Dream, which is a pale pink in color. This is a product you apply as a finishing touch over your foundation or you can wear it alone when you have one of those “just rolled out of bed” moments and need to run out and do errands...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Got Blot & Make Under

Got Blot is a transparent powder (do not be scared that it is pure white) that is appropriate for every skin tone. The powder is lightweight and no matter how many times you need to dab it on, it won’t build up like a pancake. It contains “tea tree oil to help fight acne, aloe to soothe and calm, and vitamin E to help repair skin damage.” Read more.

Many of my readers on Makeup Minute often email me and ask if I know the name of the spray foundation Carmindy, Makeup Artist on What Not To Wear, uses on the shows fashion victims. Today in Carmindy's newsletter, she revealed the brand of this elusive product.

Carmindy uses two spray on foundations: ERA FACE Spray on Foundation by Classified Cosmetics and Sally Hansen Air Brush Makeup.

ERA FACE Spray on Foundation comes in 10 naturally sheer shades and are divided up into two color bases: yellow-beige and red-beige. On their website, each shade notes which color base it is in. There is an "Automatch" component to the Classified Cosmetics site, where you can find the best matching ERA color to your current foundation. The site states that if your foundation is not listed in their database, their makeup artists will personally research a match.

ERA FACE Spray on Foundation requires no blending, is water resistant and lightweight. It is oil-free and won't rub off on clothing. You can find ERA at various salons or you can simply order direct through their website.

Sally Hansen Air Brush Makeup is also lightweight and oil-free. It's irritant-free and hypoallergenic. It comes in 5 shades; even one called "No color." This product is available at local retail stores such as CVS and Walgreen's, and online at Cosmetic Mall and drugstore.com (see their website for a complete list.)

Have you used either of these products?

Just as AVON has been branching out of the "direct sales box" with its celebrity pairings and television ads, Mary Kay has now thrown its mascara into the ring. Mary Kay was just announced as the 2007 CMA's official beauty sponsor.

The CMA's and Mary Kay consider this a mutually beneficial relationship as the awards show can tap into Mary Kay's network of more than 700,000 beauty consultants and their customers, expanding their viewership and the Mary Kay brand will gain more exposure through the female CMA viewers nationwide. You may remember that Mary Kay had some indirect exposure on The Apprentice Season 3 through finalist Tana Goertz, who was a top beauty consultant for the company.

This is a smart move on Mary Kay's part, as it will generate buzz leading up to the CMA's and possibly for some time after the CMA's air. To maximize the potential of their sponsorship, Mary Kay has started a national consumer sweepstakes and will be advertising during the event.

NYX is launching two glitter products, Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils and Candy Glitter Liner, to add a little sparkle to your summer look.

The Candy Glitter Liner will brighten your day by adding a punch of color to your makeup routine with 18 shades including Baby Pink, Disco Queen and Tangerine. NYX Cosmetics Candy Glitter Liners are long lasting liquid liners that go on wet and dry shiny. The micro glitter infused liners are hypo-allergenic and cruelty free, making them wearable for even the most sensitive skin types. Each Candy Glitter Liner is packaged in a sleek portable tube with a fun and flirty tassel on top. Candy Glitter Liners feature a smooth tip that doesn’t tug or skip on the skin so results are impeccable. Apply onto desired body area: face, hair, chest and wherever else you want to add some colorful sparkle.

NYX Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils create a stand out party look with a sweet scent in no time. NYX Cosmetics Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils are chunky crayons of translucent color and long lasting glitter that smell as sweet as candy. The velvety smooth texture of the pencil and the long lasting, flake free formula is perfect to wear on the face and the entire body. Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils are easier to apply than traditional loose glitter due to the mess free pencil form, making them perfect to take out for a night on the town. Glitter Mania Jumbo Pencils are available in 16 funky shades including Hampton (lime green), Ceramic (baby doll pink), and Pale Shrimp (peach), which all create an alluring and fun look.

Where to get it: www.nyxcosmetics.com

Simply say, “The Beauty Bible” and everyone knows I am talking about Paula Begoun. I recently was able to interview Paula, also known for her other best sellers: Don’t Go To The Cosmetics Counter Without Me and Don’t Go Shopping For Hair Care Products Without Me. Paula Begoun is also a syndicated columnist of “Dear Paula,” a column that can be found throughout newspapers in the US and the creator and innovative force behind her product line, “Paula’s Choice.”

When you first began to challenge the cosmetics industry, were you met with much resistance by them, or did they give off the attitude that you were simply one individual who didn't pose much of a threat?
I have always found the resistance the same, some people in the industry love my work and others think I don’t know what I’m talking about. In the long run, I don’t pose much of a threat, but that’s always true for an iconoclast.

As time went on and your books became best sellers (and you--a force to be reckoned with), did you notice that the brands you were challenging for false claims began to change the wording in their advertising?
No, if anything things have gotten worse. Cosmetic companies don’t even care what the FDA does, because by the time anyone notices, the next advertising campaign or product launch replaced the previous one.

In the beginning, were you surprised by the amount of women responding to you? Are you still surprised that it continues today?
I’m always surprised how many women know my work. Selling over 2 million books is really great for the ego. What saddens me, is when I feel nothing has changed and women are still wasting lots of money on misleading advertising claims.

You said (on your website) that Paula's Choice and your challenging of the cosmetic industry began as a personal quest. Do you now feel like an advocate for all women discerning fact from fiction in product claims?
It still feels like a personal quest, I find myself wanting to know more all the time. Being an advocate for myself, and having turned that into a business is a wonderful way to earn a living.

What makes Paula's Choice products stand out among its competitors?
It depends on who the competitor is. There are some really bad products on the market and in those instances my products are stellar with state of the art ingredients, air tight packaging (to keep the beneficial ingredients stable), and elegant formulations. But there are also brilliant products out there that are truly excellent and I feel strongly my products compete beautifully (and almost always, mine are far less expensive).

Always stylish, always glam! Black Opal, a physician-created color cosmetic line, will help every woman achieve that coveted Hollywood glamorous look that is in this Fall season with its exclusive Glam Kit. With skin flattering shades and high-grade ingredients at an affordable price, Black Opal’s Glam Kit can turn any gal on a budget into Hollywood’s next sensation.

Black Opal’s Glam Kit rolls out the red carpet with four fabulous must-haves:

Black Opal’s Crème Shine Lipstick creates high drama color and shine that wears evenly and stays on all day and night. It’s formulated with soybean extract and packed with antioxidants A, C, and E to condition, protect and repair lips. Crème Shine Lipsticks come in 10 rich and vibrant shades.

The Flawless Match Foundation makes skin look radiant and practically perfect. The foundation optimizes the effects of light to help hide imperfections while using silicone beads to create a smooth even look. This light weight, oil-free, formula comes in six flattering shades that allows a woman’s natural beauty to shine through.

Black Opal’s Eyeshadow Duos come in deep rich hues that create show stopping eyes. The finely milled powders go on velvety soft and resist creasing and flaking. The Eyeshadow Duos each contain a shimmering highlighter and a darker shade perfect for contouring and lining eyes making them paparazzi ready.

The Color Fusion Mosaic Powders give skin an effortless glow and silky smooth finish. The powders are hypo allergenic and non-comedogenic. They contain vitamins that condition and protect the skin, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Alluring and charismatic, Black Opal’s Glam Kit will keep women looking like an A-lister at a D-list price. Each item is old separately.

Crème Shine Lipstick, $6.25
Flawless Match Foundation, $9.25
Eyeshadow Duos, $4.95
Color Fusion Mosaic Powders, $9.95

Copyright © 2007 Beauty Pro. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator or directly on Beauty Pro, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement.

DermStore understands ecommerce and has mastered the art of making online shopping simple and rewarding. DermStore is not merely a distributor of high-end skin care and cosmetic products, but a safe haven for beauty brands to sell their products and consumers to purchase in confidence.

DermStore began in 1999 with the vision of fulfilling the unmet need for a reputable dermatologist-backed online store, carrying only the finest cosmetic dermatology products. DermStore has evolved into the premier online retail destination for cosmetics and skin care products, with the goal of exceeding expectations of even the most demanding customers.

With more than 150 brands and over 4,000 products, DermStore has quickly become the leader in luxury cosmetics online. Some of the most popular product lines are Dermalogica, Jane Iredale, Pevonia Botanica, Phytomer, Sircuit Cosmeceuticals and Kinerase – however, the list expands as new luxury brands are added monthly.

Boots Botanics Lip Gloss

I’m beginning to see why Boots is the #1 beauty brand in the UK. Among the many products from Boots that I was sent, of course I first dove for the lip gloss in the package and immediately applied it. I received the Boots Botanics Lip Gloss in Loganberry, which is a beautiful mauve color...Read more.

Luscious Cosmetics Lip Delites

Luscious Cosmetics Lip Delites are glosses with just a hint of color to them. They contain hyralonic acid to soften your lips and a lip volumizer to plump them up to 40%. I received two Lip Delites from Luscious Cosmetics; Boca Raton and White Sands...Read more.

Rimmel Underground Light Beam After Dark

I received my Light Beam lip gloss in Spotlight. I was a little nervous at first because it is hot pink. I was on the verge of feeling disappointed that I wouldn’t really be able to use this product beyond just trying it out for review. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Spotlight is a very sheer gloss with a slight hint of color...Read more.

MAC in 3D

MAC in 3D is the newest lipglass collection available only until October 1st. It contains 12 luxurious and super glossy reflective glosses. 3D lipglass is a gel-based formula that combines reflective and chrome pearls so that you get dimension and high shine. I am all about the shine...Read more.

Copyright © 2007 Beauty Pro. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, on a site giving proper attribution back to our blog or directly on Beauty Pro, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement.

We're only into day two of Spring 2008 New York Fashion Week, but I'm already liking what I am seeing for Spring 08 beauty trends. As fast as the bold eyebrow trend swept in, it appears that it is just as quickly on its way out. Honestly? I couldn't be more thrilled. What seemed to be popular among designers and fashion magazines (as evidenced in their shows, in photo spreads and gracing red carpet celebrities) has not caught on with beauty addicts everywhere. I have yet to encounter anyone who embraced it wholeheartedly.

Softer, more natural looking eyebrows will be here for Spring 2008, once again bringing back natural beauty. Thanks to this great widget PopSugar created below, I can share Spring's fresh looks straight from the runway with you:

Urban Apothecary Mineral Sheer Radiance

My Mineral Sheer Radiance is in Dream, which is a pale pink in color. This is a product you apply as a finishing touch over your foundation or you can wear it alone when you have one of those “just rolled out of bed” moments and need to run out and do errands...Read more.

Sally Hansen Lip Inflation Tints

Sally Hansen says: * Refreshing tinted gloss enhances lips’ natural color and shape by shape while adding brilliant shine. * Peppermint “cools” and stimulates lips. * Lips become flush and plump instantly for a sexy, pouty look. * Vitamins A and E hydrate the lips. What I thought:
Beautiful pink color–looked great on me. However, my lips only plumped slightly and didn’t last very long. I was really hoping for something more substantial...Read more.

Jane Iredale Lemon Lid Primer

Jane Iredale’s Lemon Lid Primer had a creamy thick consistency to it. It applied very easily, going on smooth. Although it was thick when I swiped my finger over the jar, it did not appear thick at all once applied. The lemon color immediately muted my red eye area...Read more.

Boots No7 Blush Tint

Boots No7’s Blush Tint is a compact little tube blush and the tint of Blossom is a beautiful fleshtone pink. This color is perfectly wearable whether its to go to work or making your weekly shopping trip to the mall. Simply swipe it at the apples of your cheeks and use your finger tips to blend. It’s really that simple...Read more.

Tucked away in beautiful West Chester Pennsylvania is a boutique filled with decadently high-end beauty products (Hourglass, Fresh, Kiss Me, Becca) that has all of the locals raving. While Plain Jane is known for its intimate at-home setting (you'll feel like you are simply sharing makeup with a girlfriend) they are most known for their fabulous makeup parties. Where else can you sip champagne while choosing just the right lipstick other than your own powder room, of course.

Plain Jane offers the Powder Room party every Wednesday from 5pm-8pm. Play with color, talk to a makeup artist about your skin and ideas for a new look and get transformed as they work their magic. Sipping cocktails, gabbing with girlfriends and being pampered? This is my idea of fun.

Plain Jane has First Friday parties or better yet, you can customize a party to suit your needs. Pampering your best girlfriends with sugar scrubs, face masks, hair styling and makeup applications--we all love to be pampered, why not make it a celebration and share it with your friends?

With a few accolades to their name such as the Best of Philly Best Cosmetic Store award and two Best of the Main Line awards, Plain Jane owners Annie Moretti and Michele Robins have what it takes to make sure that you walk away from their boutique having just had an "experience" and not just another shopping day.

Coastal Scents Glossi Glazes & Concealer A

The Glossi Glaze is pretty unqiue. Their website states that it can go between being a lip gloss and a lipstick. It comes in a glass jar and it is a thick “balm” that you can apply with your lip brush or finger...Read more.

Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips

There was definitely high shine with this plumping gloss. I immediately began to feel that “burning” sensation everyone has been telling me about. The gloss was thin and I made sure to apply the same amount of gloss to both lips. After about 10 minutes and the burning sensation making me feel like I had puffer lips, I ran excitedly to the bathroom to get a look in the mirror. Alas, they looked exactly the same as when I applied the plumping gloss. I was definitely feeling the sensation like my lips were huge, yet they weren’t...Read more.

Jane Iredale Cream to Powder Eyeliner

Application is super easy, as you don’t have to wet your brush to apply them. Actually, I sometimes even use my finger to give my eyes that smokey look to them. The cream glides on smooth and quickly turns to powder. No muss, no fuss…just the way I like it...Read more.

Urban Apothecary Supernatural Mineral Powder

This powder is definitely feather light and offers a great matte look, especially in my T-zone. It gives “buildable” coverage, in that a once over will give you more of a transluscent powder look, but a second pat will give you color to match your skin tone, concealing uneveness and giving you that perfect look. I also love that this powder has a SPF of 8...Read more.

Redpoint just launched Airbrush Effects BlushWhip - part stain, part luxurious anti-aging treatment with a unique polytonal formula that universally flatters and moisturizes. Airbrush Effects BlushWhip has a unique air-like texture, with weightless skin perfecting pigments for a flawless, glowing complexion. The easy-to-blend, ultra-hydrating formula diminishes the appearance of large pores and adds much needed moisture to dry skin during the winter months.

Airbrush Effects BlushWhip can be layered to control the depth of color and because it’s long-lasting you no longer have to worry about reapplying throughout the day. It works perfectly with your own powder blush, acting as a base to increase staying power and provide a smooth surface.

How does it work? Airbrush Effects BlushWhip contains a stabilized oil-soluble form of vitamin C that enhances performance and helps hydrate skin. A patented nanotechnology delivery system enables active ingredients to penetrate the skin quickly. The powerful blend of non-irritating peptides including the Elastimide Amino Complex has been combined with moisture attracting ceramides and Myoxinol, a botanical peptide that combats wrinkles, to instantly diminish signs of aging and minimize the appearance of large pores. DermaFiber, a micronized fabric developed from cotton, fills in and diffuses the appearance of fine lines.

Airbrush Effects BlushWhip is perfect for dry skin, dull complexions and uneven skin tones. Applied to bare skin or over foundation, it is a 3-in-1 wash of color for eyelids, lips and cheeks.

To apply, simply dab a dot or two on to apples of cheeks and blend with fingertips using a gentle, circular motion. For extra depth and definition, apply additional layers until preferred color is achieved.

Get a youthful and radiant glow with Airbrush Effects BlushWhip and enjoy the added benefits of extra hydration, a smooth complexion and firmer, healthier skin.

Available at www.RedpointBeauty.com

Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me has been the beauty bible for most women (and men) for years. Now in its 7th and final edition, Paula Begoun’s most popular trustworthy source of information, has her on a global media tour and preparing her for the next transition in her career of educating the consumer from the truths and non-truths in the cosmetics industry—the launch of Beautypedia.

Beautypedia, a database of thousands of product reviews, will remain the “living version” of her best-selling book and subscribers will have access to its entire contents online. Updated on the web in real time, Beautypedia will focus on helping consumers find the best fit for their skin care and cosmetics needs. While there are other websites out there that review beauty products, the major point of difference with Beautypedia is the substantiation behind the reviews—they are backed by science and not based on personal preference. Beautypedia will also be home to informative articles and industry news.

Subscription to Beautypedia is $24.95 a year. To view Paula’s Media Tour dates visit www.cosmeticscop.com.

Beauty for Life is a new website launched by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery to educate people regarding the procedures they are considering and the surgeons who will be doing them. I had the opportunity to ask Dr. Richard A'mico MD FACS, President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons more about their goal for Beauty for Life.

Shannon: Was beauty for Life conceptualized out of the concern that many women and men aren't doing their research prior to choosing a plastic surgeon or being misinformed about a procedure?

Dr. Richard D'Amico: As consumers' cosmetic procedural options increase, so too does their confusion about which ones can best meet their needs. To get answers, many turn to the Internet first-but with so much information on the Web, they often struggle to find specific, reliable information on the most appropriate cosmetic procedures for their stage of life and beauty goals. As they search, many also do not understand the importance of consulting with a qualified plastic surgeons for personalized, expert advice. So, The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)- the world's largest association of board-certified plastic surgeons- formed Beauty for Life to help consumers make educated choices about cosmetic medicine procedures and providers. BeautyforLife.com is one of the components of our Integrated effort to educate patients about how to make safe decisions when it comes to cosmetic procedures of all types.

Shannon: How do you hope to educate them through this new website?

Dr. Richard D'Amico: To help consumers navigate the cosmetic medical landscape, four levels of cosmetic medical care are defined as well as the most common cosmetic concerns- and the most effective procedures- in each stage of life. To reach a vast new online audience we developed this dynamic website. BeautyforLife.com features a confidential, interactive quiz to match information about each visitor's age, appearance, beauty regimen, lifestyle, and body image with facts and images that reveal how they can look their best at any age. We also provide visitors with information that charts the aging process and most popular cosmetic procedures from the teen years through the 60's and beyond, not to mention a "Find-A-Surgeon" tool that allows them to search for a plastic surgeon in their area who is board certified and a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and/or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

Pierce Mattie was recently interviewed by Cosmetique News in Paris about how men's grooming products in Pakistan are beginning to become more acceptable and opening an opportunity for growth. Below you will find the original interview that took place that I believe will shed some insight into this emerging market for beauty.

Courtney, Cosmetique News: I’ve read a few reports detailing how men’s beauty products and services do well in Pakistan, as the influence of global pop culture and an existing cultural acceptance toward men ‘adorning themselves’ for special occasions like weddings make even men’s makeup products acceptable there, despite the strong influence of Islam. What can you tell me about this market?

Pierce Mattie: Pakistan is currently experiencing a rapid growth rate annually higher than most Middle Eastern countries with their economy and commerce. It currently remains as the world’s sixth largest growth rate. Their two largest areas of growth are finance and manufacturing. Previously, Pakistan’s economy was primarily an agricultural base, but over the past ten years it has increased to being a service-based country. This mostly includes wholesale and retail with an increase in marketing and public relations, both of which are image related industries. The trend is going from men in the workforce who may have worked outside mostly during the week to ones that are now indoors, at a computer, taking meetings and attending social functions for lunch and dinner. Thus, their grooming demands have increased.

In 2006 Pakistan signed the Free Trade Agreement with China to increase its bilateral trade to other markets. This has caused the workforce again to become more competitive both in their appearance and business savvy skills. The men are taking on a more global esthetic than that typically centric to Pakistan. There is a huge influence coming from East India at this time with men’s fashion and grooming that is melting Pakistani trends with an Indian Asian inspiration. I also see a huge amount of lineage between Pakistan and France. The Fashion Institute of Pakistan has an equally male staff as it does to its female counterparts, something unique to the country’s leading fashion school, thus increasing the enrollment of men in the college as well.

Courtney, Cosmetique News: In your understanding, which products/channels are the most successful, and which have the most potential for growth?

Pierce Mattie: Close to half of Pakistan’s population is Punjabi, an Indo-Aryan ethnic group from South Asia. They continue to enjoy their spicy dishes at lunch, but realize that during meetings it’s best to have a neutral aroma. There is an increase in men splashing cologne after lunch with popular notes that neutralize food smells, as well as, increasing their shower rituals to both morning and night. Their music and dance of choice is a folk music called Bhangra and it’s known for being very colorful. Currently it’s being mixed into workout videos and used similarly to the way the US Fitness industry exploded with a Miami dance called Zumba. Pakistan features several of their videos with male instructors. Famous Punjabi men include; Hrithik Roshan, who is an award-winning Bollywood actor. A partnership with him would make for a great branding opportunity for a grooming brand to align with.

We have always prided ourself for staying ahead of the trends and having the foresight to know who is on track for becoming a haute property. We've comprised a Haute List that contains brands that are haute now as well as brands you should be keeping your eye on.

Indie Fashion & Beauty Magazines:
1. Visionaire
2. Metro.Pop
3. VMAN

Foreign Beauty & Fashion Magazines:
1. Company (UK)
2. Jessica (Hong Kong)
3. Trendi (Finland)

TV Shows:
1. 90210
2. Kath & Kim
3. Gossip Girl

Women’s Apparel:
1. Topshop
2. Valentino under Alessandra Fachinetti
3. Rodarte

Men’s Apparel:
1. Pastelle
2. RMC Martin Ksohoh
3. ANAMA

Jewelry Brands:
1. John Hardy
2. Alexis Bittar
3. Trollbeads

Handbag Lines:
1. Rebecca Minkoff
2. Foley+Corinna
3. Timi & Leslie

Cosmetic Lines:
1. e.l.f.
2. Colorescience
3. Classified Cosmetics

Facing the Fall 2008 Fashion Trends 

With the non-official summer fashion cut-off finally arriving yesterday, it’s time to update your makeup routine to correspond with the new fall trends.  Naturally, I like to think my fall fashion trend picks from our Fashion Rag are also all encompassing of the hottest makeup trends this fall so I went ahead and found the best beauty looks to go with each trend.

Goth Glam:  This is not the Goth of the 90’s, so please get the hope out of your head that your dark red lipped and raccoon eye lined ways were making a comeback.  Instead, the 2008 brand of Goth calls for a simple sweep of pewter shaded shadow, a clean black lash line and a plum matte lip.  I like Duwop Gray Eyes Shadow Kit (I also LOVE their Reverse Eye Liner that will compliment the clean eye desired for this look by preventing smudging and running of the eyeliner) and Urban Decay makes a terrific lipstick in Apocalypse.

Copyright © 2008 Beauty Pro. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, on a site giving proper attribution back to our blog or directly on Beauty Pro, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement.

Facing the Fall 2008 Fashion Trends 

With the non-official summer fashion cut-off finally arriving yesterday, it’s time to update your makeup routine to correspond with the new fall trends.  Naturally, I like to think my fall fashion trend picks from our Fashion Rag are also all encompassing of the hottest makeup trends this fall so I went ahead and found the best beauty looks to go with each trend.

Goth Glam:  This is not the Goth of the 90’s, so please get the hope out of your head that your dark red lipped and raccoon eye lined ways were making a comeback.  Instead, the 2008 brand of Goth calls for a simple sweep of pewter shaded shadow, a clean black lash line and a plum matte lip.  I like Duwop Gray Eyes Shadow Kit (I also LOVE their Reverse Eye Liner that will compliment the clean eye desired for this look by preventing smudging and running of the eyeliner) and Urban Decay makes a terrific lipstick in Apocalypse.

Copyright © 2008 Beauty Pro. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, on a site giving proper attribution back to our blog or directly on Beauty Pro, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement.

CVS Could Soon Stand for "Central Vanity Station" 

A few weeks ago I ran out of my moisturizer, but had to settle for a “hold-me-over” at my local CVS since I didn’t have the time to visit Sephora.  I walked to the normal space in the front corner of the store where the beauty products were always housed, but what I found wasn’t what I was expecting.  Halogen lighting dimly peeked through the glass that replaced the ugly metal shelving and a pleasant well-dressed woman stood behind a podium and asked if I needed any help finding something.  Had I walked into the right store? This is CVS?

My positive reaction to the amped up beauty offerings was obviously one of many. According to Women’s Wear Daily, the chain just released drafts to open beauty emporiums called Beauty 360 beside their drugstores that will house what they call “department store or specialty store” skincare, fragrance, and cosmetics brands.  The store will be its own entity with a breezeway to walk from the regular CVS to the new Beauty 360.

Copyright © 2008 Beauty Pro. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, on a site giving proper attribution back to our blog or directly on Beauty Pro, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement.

CVS Could Soon Stand for "Central Vanity Station" 

A few weeks ago I ran out of my moisturizer, but had to settle for a “hold-me-over” at my local CVS since I didn’t have the time to visit Sephora.  I walked to the normal space in the front corner of the store where the beauty products were always housed, but what I found wasn’t what I was expecting.  Halogen lighting dimly peeked through the glass that replaced the ugly metal shelving and a pleasant well-dressed woman stood behind a podium and asked if I needed any help finding something.  Had I walked into the right store? This is CVS?

My positive reaction to the amped up beauty offerings was obviously one of many. According to Women’s Wear Daily, the chain just released drafts to open beauty emporiums called Beauty 360 beside their drugstores that will house what they call “department store or specialty store” skincare, fragrance, and cosmetics brands.  The store will be its own entity with a breezeway to walk from the regular CVS to the new Beauty 360.

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I caught myself thinking about this very shift in makeup artistry when I was watching the local newsteam on my brand new HDTV.  I have begun to notice the newscaster's heavy makeup with this crystal clear view. 

I caught myself thinking about this very shift in makeup artistry when I was watching the local newsteam on my brand new HDTV.  I have begun to notice the newscaster's heavy makeup with this crystal clear view. 

Celebrity Katie Price has commissioned Classified Cosmetics to produce a private label line of their world class airbrush, spray on makeup. With a successful modeling career, published memoirs and her own clothing, lingerie and hair care product lines, Katie Price continues to build her empire. With this latest addition, Price could not have chosen better.

Classified is a celebrity favorite and recognized for its revolutionary formulations and airbrush application. Classified Cosmetics are the inventors of spray on beauty products with patents globally. Classified hit the scene in 2001 launching a prestige line of patented airbrush makeup that changed the industry. The Classified Cosmetics/Katie Price product line is expected to hit stores in 2009.

*Photo Credit: StarPulse.com

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“Your lipstick has bugs in it,” a co-worker pointed out as I applied my favorite shade of red one afternoon. “What are you talking about? It’s clearly labeled vegan, hello!” I responded. “No really – look it up. It’s a known fact that the color red is commonly derived from bugs.”

What! What is this nonsense? Was I the only one who thought that something labeled vegan should be vegan? And why isn’t it common knowledge that little bugs were comprised of my favorite shade of lipstick? And so the research began…

When I think of celebrities who have the total package, one word comes to mind: Fergie. The Disney star – you know you watched KIDS Incorporated – turned international pop sensation has a rockin’ body and a face that was meant to don billboards. And while her abs are famous in their own right, it’s her lips that she’s most famous for. Get ready to put them to work Ms. Stacy.

Fergie has signed on as the new MAC Viva Glam spokeswoman, a position once held by the divine Rupaul. As such, Fergie will be promoting her new lip gloss, Viva Glam VI Special Edition, which will benefit the company’s HIV/AIDS fund. In an interview from METRO newspaper, Fergie talked about her own makeup rituals, stating, “I was completely into the chola lip line. Nowadays, I’ll do that only for the stage. I realize that my lips look beautiful naturally."

In face, these days, Fergie is known for wearing a nude lip, and there are no complaints from her millions of adoring fans. She’s Lip-alicious!

Here's some fabulous nude lipsticks and glosses:

MAC's Viva Glam IV Tinted Lipglass
Lavera Organic Lipstick No. 21 in Shell
Colorescience Lip Candy Glaze in Suga Baby

What are your favorites?

Tags: Beauty PR

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The MAC Spring/Summer 2009 exclusive limited edition collection of Hello Kitty launched today online and comes to US stores on February 12th and overseas in March 2009. This cosmetics collection is set to be a sure-fire hit even in light of a recession.

Clever and fun, the release of the Hello Kitty collection will be in right in line for Valentine’s Day. MAC is remembering the importance of timing and the newly licensed Hello Kitty line release proves just that. Since Hello Kitty is a global phenomenon that could mean major sales for MAC. Hello Kitty already has a huge following worldwide and MAC is releasing their line knowing that there will be instant collectors in association with Hello Kitty.

New York Fashion Week has ended, leaving us with a multitude of new trends to piece together. This fashion week, some trends, like dramatic, gothic lips, seemed to reflect the times. Maybe it was due to economic issues in the fashion industry, prohibiting some designers from hosting runway shows. Designers like Doo.Ri and Betsey Johnson sent their models down the runway (or took their pictures in a showroom) in graphite and blackberry-colored lips. I know it was fall fashion week, but depressed anyone?

These colors capture the drama of the runway where anything goes, but can lips this dark really be called ready-to-wear? Few would dare. So, how can you wear dark lipstick in the real world?

Having worked in a makeup studio, I've heard a lot of women lament about eyeshadow. Many had trouble putting it on in a good shape for their eye or even putting the right amount on. It is complicated. How do you know how much is enough or how much is too much? You can really only know by practice or having someone do it for you. So, what if the right amount of shadow and the shape was already done for you and you just had to apply it? That would be great right? But how? The answer is stick-on eyeshadow.

I've heard a lot about these, but never used them myself or known someone who could tell me about it. So, I decided to explore how stick-on eyeshadow works. It looks easy to apply and difficult to mess up. It would be a makeup miracle. But you know how you see infomercials for products and you ask yourself, "If this really worked wouldn't everyone would use it?" That's how I feel about stick-on eyeshadow. So, my real question is, if it's so simple, why isn't it more popular?

Beauty can be more than just glitz and glam — it is essentially the act of doing something beautifully positive.  MAC Cosmetics has mastered the art of staying gorgeous while taking a stand against a pressing issue.  Teamed up with VIVA GLAM Spokesperson and pop star Fergie, MAC recently revealed Fergie’s new VIVA GLAM VI Special Edition Lipstick and new VIVA GLAM advertising campaign in Los Angeles.  The new lipsticks are set to be available March 19th everywhere that MAC is carried.

Since it first launched in 1994, MAC's Viva Glam program has donated over $130 million to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS globally over the past 15 years. With 100% of the selling price going towards the MAC AIDS Fund, the duo hopes to bring the cosmetic company to their outstanding $150 million goal after the release of the lipsticks.  Now I’m waiting for other celebrities to step their game up in the charity department.

Dreams really do come true, as proven by Italian designer duo Dolce & Gabbana, who have finally realized their dream of launching a makeup line.  The switch from dresses to lipsticks from one of Milan’s top fashion names, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, came as challenging but smooth as they turned to the Sicilian and Mediterranean roots of their brand for range, modeled by Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson.

They also called on the help of make-up artist Pat McGrath who has worked at their shows for more than 10-years, yet the designers say they were at each and every step in the making of the range.

Gabbana described the transformation from clothing to cosmetics as a “studied and searched project more than usual,” because they had never before ventured down the road of eyeshadows and all things facial, so they had to be meticulous in sculpting their dream.

The designers brought their notoriety for their use of gold embellishments into their makeup line, packaging it with pure metal gold.  Perhaps what’s most interesting are the names given to the products which include eyeshadows named “Guilty” and “Elegance,” and lipsticks called “drama” and “devil.”  What was the inspiration behind these names?

Image via Wikipedia

Fashion week is over and the catwalk shows are always a good indication for next season's makeup trends. This summer's trends will bring softness and freshness to your look. This summer is all about strong eyes, colorful hues and pink flushed cheeks to make you look radiant all summer.

Eyes: Runway looks this past fashion week showed fun colors to experiment with such as lilac, or aqua (which Gucci sported this past fashion week), and also try some blue-rock glam that we saw at Alexander Herchocovitch. Use your imagination and combine pastel and bright colors to bring lots of personality to your look. Eyes are a big focus for this summer; wearing reds, oranges, purple, greens, bright blues and yellows to really stand out. Oranges and yellows are a little hard to pull off, but if you are a darker complexion these colors will complement you.

So many brands offer these shades, one of my favorite being MAC Cosmetics since their colors are so bold and offers such a variety of colors. Also, add some gold shimmer to your eyes to achieve a goddess feel, if you feel like it is too glitzy you should highlight the inner corners of your eyes with gold shimmer to create a subtle effect. Gold-based eye shadow is a great way to brighten up brown and hazel-colored eyes, but can also warm up other eye colors and different skin tones. A great product for this is Chanel's Fluid Iridescent Eye shadow in gold).

Next up is to store away your harsh black liquid liner, and replace it with violet eyeliner to create a softer eye that compliments every skin tone. Smokey eyes are still in, however such a dark tone is not necessary for the summer; so try to soften it up with light grays, blues, and purples to cater to the summer look.

This season, the Yves Saint Laurent woman basks in the mesmerizing beauty and exoticism of Africa. With warm and radiant contrasting colors, she is bold and beautiful and supremely glamorous.

YSL Summer Look 2009 is composed of 5 products, including 3 limited editions:

- Eye palette “Trésor d’Afrique” collector offers 5 shades: ivory, to be used as a base; turquoise, plum and navy blue for definition, and toffee to brighten the arch area and bring warmth and contrast to the eyes.

Have you ever wanted to be as fabulous as a secret agent? Well, now you can look like one. Guerlain has released a lipstick that is in a sleek, metal case that looks like it should shoot lasers, but instead, it holds a pretty lip color. Intrigued? I was too, so I investigated. I want to know: what exactly are the components of this hi-tech lipstick?

Do you know what time it is? It’s Time Zone SPF 15 time. Ever since my diagnosis a few years ago with Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer, I have been an SPF advocate. My face cream, hair gel, hand cream, lip balm and bronzer are always loaded with UV blockers. Lauder’s new wonder creme is marketed to those of us 30-55 and promises to take ten years off our face (yes they guarantee it will happen in just four weeks.) More importantly, it has good sunscreen coverage for day to day use. Can I tell you that I am now at the bottom of my jar? Yes it’s empty and I have loved it! I hope that they continue the launch of this collection and follow it up with an SPF 30, an eye cream, hand cream and lip balm (please!)

I have to give the Estee Lauder team a ton of credit for this launch; the video’s, time clock, the claims and the marketing are simply brilliant. The buzz words from this campaign: replenish, rebuild and sustain are also blatant--but unique. It’s the first skin care launch to communicate dialogue with “sustain” as a call to action with enzyme technology. The synergy of their other two key technologies with rice extract to target fatigued skin and hyaluronic acid to help with rebuilding the skin are also a great benchmark for the brand. I enjoyed how consumer friendly the website is giving consumers access to video, images and the ability to read the data.

As for using Time Zone, my suggestion is to place a quarter size on your forehead, both cheeks, chin and neck – then blend up and outward using effleurage movements. I then reduce the sheen witt a more matte look using Colorescience’s All Even Pressed Minerals. I then reapply mid-day after my workout at the gym. It's worth a try if you are looking for something new, not heavy or overly perfumed.

Kat von D of Miami Ink and her own spin-off LA Ink, may be the busiest woman on TV as of late. Currently, von D is in LA shooting the third installment of her show, LA Ink, which currently tops TLC’s ratings. She is also developing a skin care line at cosmetic chain Sephora, which is said to include tattoo concealer, and is also working on another book – likely to be a best seller! High Voltage Tattoo is a compilation of her work, trailing her start as a tattoo artist from childhood to her recent work. The book also includes information about her show, her inspirations, her shop and her personal tattoos. Covering this much ground may be one of the wisest business moves for any reality star to date.

SUNDARI, a distinct skin care brand available at some of the best spas worldwide, is being acquired by Wellness Systems LLC. In recent years SUNDARI has expanded its product range across several countries and now Wellness Systems looks to further build SUNDARI into a powerful spa brand internationally. While the terms of the acquisition seem to be under wraps, I'm sure it can only mean great things for this beauty brand. (And while I have your attention you should try their Gotu Kola and Indian Asparagus Mask--I love it!)

Smashbox Cosmetics has unveiled its summer 2009 Color Collection: Untamed. This collection aims to unleash your wild side with this safari-inspired collection for eyes, cheeks and lips which will begin rolling out this May. It is along the lines of a bronze goddess look, which we all want for this summer (or at least I do!) This new collection has four essential products to make you look exotically glamorous this summer:

L'Oreal has been developing hair and beauty products that have changed the way the world views fashion and beauty. This year L'Oreal celebrates 100 years of bringing brighter lips, longer lashes, smoother skin and shinier hair to women (and men) around the world. One hundred years in the business is a tremendous milestone, so we thought we’d venture back and deem the top five L'Oreal products of all time:

Wendy Lewis is an international insider to the world of anti-aging, skin care, beauty and cosmetic surgery. She is also the author of 10 consumer health and beauty books, including two editions of America’s Cosmetic Doctors & Dentists and her newest title, Plastic Makes Perfect; The Complete Cosmetic Beauty Guide. Her contributions to the beauty industry are vast, of which you can learn more on her website www.wlbeauty.com.

Pierce Mattie: In a recent article on Health News Digest you raved about Lumixyl. Would you say that it even works better than Tri-Luma? What do you see as the biggest difference between the two?

Wendy Lewis: Lumixyl is a newly launched peptide based skin brightening/lightening cream that will sell for around $120 US for 1 ounce pump. I love Tri-Luma, which is a prescription drug from Galderma that is modeled from Kligman's Formula and contatins 4% Hydroquinone, retinoid and a mild steroid. Lumixyl is a hydroquinone alternative, and the results of studies conducted at Stanford showed great results, and it is gentle for all skin types. Lumixyl is an OTC product sold through professional channels, whereas Triluma is an Rx and requires a prescription from an MD. I foresee that some dermatologists may put patients on a regimen that contains both of these formulations in some cases. 

Pierce Mattie: There are many aesthetic consultants in Manhattan, Palm Beach and Beverly Hills but no one who executes it as well as you. I have always said it’s your skill to really match up your clients with the right physician. What kind of research goes into your work?

Wendy Lewis: I am flattered Pierce, especially coming from someone who is a guru in the beauty biz. I take my "Knife Coach" brand very seriously and care about my clients and the recommendations I give them. I do a ton of research, attend conferences in the US and Europe, routinely interview and visit doctors in all specialties and read trade journals online so I am up to speed on all the latest developments. I have never altered from my original business model, which differs greatly from other me too "consultants" I have come across; my independence and impartiality is paramount, I treat all clients with total confidentiality, and I am not in anyone's pocket.

When I suggest a product or practitioner for a client, it comes from the heart and from my personal knowledge and expertise. I am doing more phone and webcam consultations today with private clients than face to face, both from an economical point and for convenience for the clients who are busy, active, and international. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close, and I have been at it now for over a dozen years.

Wendy Lewis is an international insider to the world of anti-aging, skin care, beauty and cosmetic surgery. She is also the author of 10 consumer health and beauty books, including two editions of America’s Cosmetic Doctors & Dentists and her newest title, Plastic Makes Perfect; The Complete Cosmetic Beauty Guide. Her contributions to the beauty industry are vast, of which you can learn more on her website www.wlbeauty.com.

Pierce Mattie: In a recent article on Health News Digest you raved about Lumixyl. Would you say that it even works better than Tri-Luma? What do you see as the biggest difference between the two?

Wendy Lewis: Lumixyl is a newly launched peptide based skin brightening/lightening cream that will sell for around $120 US for 1 ounce pump. I love Tri-Luma, which is a prescription drug from Galderma that is modeled from Kligman's Formula and contatins 4% Hydroquinone, retinoid and a mild steroid. Lumixyl is a hydroquinone alternative, and the results of studies conducted at Stanford showed great results, and it is gentle for all skin types. Lumixyl is an OTC product sold through professional channels, whereas Triluma is an Rx and requires a prescription from an MD. I foresee that some dermatologists may put patients on a regimen that contains both of these formulations in some cases. 

Pierce Mattie: There are many aesthetic consultants in Manhattan, Palm Beach and Beverly Hills but no one who executes it as well as you. I have always said it’s your skill to really match up your clients with the right physician. What kind of research goes into your work?

Wendy Lewis: I am flattered Pierce, especially coming from someone who is a guru in the beauty biz. I take my "Knife Coach" brand very seriously and care about my clients and the recommendations I give them. I do a ton of research, attend conferences in the US and Europe, routinely interview and visit doctors in all specialties and read trade journals online so I am up to speed on all the latest developments. I have never altered from my original business model, which differs greatly from other me too "consultants" I have come across; my independence and impartiality is paramount, I treat all clients with total confidentiality, and I am not in anyone's pocket.

When I suggest a product or practitioner for a client, it comes from the heart and from my personal knowledge and expertise. I am doing more phone and webcam consultations today with private clients than face to face, both from an economical point and for convenience for the clients who are busy, active, and international. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close, and I have been at it now for over a dozen years.

I have loved Brooke Shields since her first Calvin Klein ad and its makes sense that she remains the dominating spokesperson on TV during commercial breaks. I would love to get your opinion on this one – is it Brooke Shields overkill? Should celebrities limit their endorsement deals to one or two brands per year? Or should they take on whatever they can get?

Currently Brooke is running commercials for Coppertone, Latisse, Volkswagen, Colgate Total and Tupperware. Sure Brooke’s trademark is her brows – so it sort of makes sense that she would do the Latisse commercial. Being a SPF advocate for Coppertone revealing the damage the UV rays can do, again, is another good move. Especially since she recently found a precancerous spot on her face. But is the number of endorsement deals just too much? What do you think?

Photo Credit: Latisse

Borghese's publicity and social media strategies have really caught my eye lately. As a big fan of their skin care products, I wanted to get the inside scoop from their communications and publicity team on what they have been up to and what products we can expect to see this fall.

Pierce Mattie: Borghese sure has caught on to the develops of social media. You have a Facebook fan page, a twitter profile and a flickr page. How has online communication been working for the Borghese team?

Borghese: The social media has been amazing for us. We are connecting with customers from all over the US. We recently launched our Community Page; our customers are sharing stories with each other on when they first discovered Borghese, their favorite Borghese product, etc.

Pierce Mattie: I actually get announcements when to head over to Lord & Taylor for facials, has Facebook announcements like this in the past helped fill the chairs at the department store?

Borghese: It certainly has helped in the past although social media has made it easier for us. Instead of sending out invitations (whether a bounce-back card or email which may be forgotten) to our events by city and state, we are now able to just list all our events and have our customers see it all at once when they log onto their pages with reminders, a list of who else is going, notifications to their friends, etc.

Pierce Mattie: Borghese is doing something quite special because you are remaining true to your loyalty of retail but actually helping the department stores to garner more consumer demand by stimulating customers with your social media strategies, what other ways have you been exciting the shopper?

Borghese: We try to connect with our customers in different ways; a good example is the shopping event, Shecky’s Girls Night Out. We alternate between having a physical presence at this shopping event and just a gift bag presence. With the physical presence, we get to speak one on one, not just with existing customers but new customers and customers who we may have lost. Our R&D is always working on developing new products which use the latest technologies. Also, we sometimes include an invitation back to our retailers for a complimentary facial or makeover in the event gift bags.

Do you ever feel like your face is melting off under the hot sun on a summer day? Well, not your actual face, but the one you apply before you leave the confines of your house. Even with the thinnest layer of foundation or concealer on, I still get that melting popsicle feeling in the middle of the day, do you?

We have all heard of famous beauty brands such as MAC, Lancôme, and Clinique. Those have become legendary brands that we all adore. However, beauty addicts are beginning to keep their eyes on emerging beauty brands such as Vis-à-Vis Cosmetics (and in full disclosure a Pierce Mattie PR beauty client.) Theresa Rivera and Karen Kretschmann created Vis-à-Vis Cosmetics to address the needs of today’s modern woman. The cosmetic line is a posh and ultra femme brand creating innovative prestige formulas, textures and color palettes.

In this economy I have noticed an increase in spending on faux luxuries aka knock-off’s especially sunglasses this summer but Botox, come on!

I will confess amongst my peers we have all been spending a little less time in our favorite surgeon’s office. The reality is that getting facial injections in this financial slump is not a priority with the majority. For those of you who refuse to go without those wrinkle flatteners and find a surgeon who has a record breaking price do your homework and please don’t skimp.

In an ongoing effort to better understand women's beauty routines, L'Oreal, in its 100th year, commissioned an international usage survey. The research featured some unexpected findings about how women's makeup habits are adapting in response to the recession, including how women are using makeup to get ahead at work.

The Beauty Barometer survey asked 4,000 women in the U.S. and four European countries about their cosmetic products and usage. And findings revealed that while women have changed the shades they purchase to be more "natural," they won't be giving up their favorite products anytime soon. Survey highlights include:

• Nearly half of U.S. women surveyed believe wearing makeup gives them an advantage at work and makes them feel more in control
• Four out of 10 U.S. women are wearing more neutral shades and a more natural makeup style than before the recession
• The majority of women surveyed believe wearing makeup makes them feel more self confident, and even more believe that wearing makeup improves their self image (82 percent and 86 percent respectively)
  

Proving that beauty is recession-proof, nine out of 10 women in the United States and Europe reported no change in makeup usage despite the economic crisis.

Women won't compromise on their hair either - when it comes to saving money, most U.S. women surveyed (63 percent) have not cut their hair to make it less expensive to maintain.

L'Oreal has led the beauty industry for the past 100 years through a keen understanding of consumer attitudes and preferences. The brand's goal has always been to make beauty accessible to all and to develop products that meet the cultural preferences and beauty needs of women and men around the globe.

Founded in 1909 with a single hair dye product, today L'Oreal operates in more than 130 countries, boasts more than 80,000 products from 23 leading beauty brands and creates more than 7,000 new formulations each year.

Beauty.com recently announced that it has partnered with fashion designer Zero + Mario Cornejo Designs for their latest installment of prestige gift with purchase cosmetic and fashion travel sets. The Beauty.com collaboration with fashion designers is relatively new in the last year or so and one that has proven to be a success through partnerships with designers such as Lela Rose, Shoshanna and Rachel Roy. While speaking at Cosmoprof North America this year, I had the opportunity to sit in on the WWD panel in which Kathleen McNeil of Beauty.com discussed how this has really been a beneficial co-branding relationship across the board.

Where did the summer go? It's hard to believe it, but New York Fashion Week is almost here which means it's about that time to start wearing your fall makeup. And just in time to capture your attention, The Body Shop has collaborated with celebrity makeup artist, Chase Aston, to create an autumn palette of colors so gorgeous that you may be apt to just put them on display instead of wearing them!

This September 10th in celebration of Fashion's Night Out, Clinique, the number one prestige cosmetics brand in the United States, will host events at counters throughout New York's five boroughs, inviting customers to shop. All of Clinique's activities are part of this year's Fashion's Night Out efforts - created to promote retail, restore consumer confidence and celebrate fashion and beauty.

That evening from 5pm - 7pm at the Bloomingdale's 59th Street Clinique Counter, Clinique and Milly designer, Michelle Smith will co-host an exclusive cocktail party to kick-off Fashion Week and celebrate their collaboration, Milly for Clinique - a one-of-a-kind makeup bag exclusively at Bloomingdale's. Fashionistas, Fashion Week adorers and VIPs will sip pink champagne and taste chocolate covered strawberries (an ode to the cosmetics bag) while Clinique Consultants pamper them with "Milly for Clinique" makeovers featuring the must-have fall items found in the Milly for Clinique bag. Guests can admire Milly's newest fall looks on models, chat one-on-one with Michelle Smith and have the designer autograph their very own Milly for Clinique bag.

The Government of Canada is investing in new technology that will result in new products for Canadians, more jobs for the community and new markets for farmers. Radient Technologies Inc. is receiving up to $1.1 million in repayable funding to help the company introduce a new technology for extracting valuable compounds from plants.

"The Government of Canada congratulates Radient as it opens its plant in Edmonton," said MP Mike Lake (Edmonton-Mill Woods-Beaumont) on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "This is a fine example of how our Government is delivering real action and making smart investments in the agriculture industry to boost local economies, create jobs and provide farmers with new revenue sources."

Beginning November 25, MAC Cosmetics Holiday Collection, Baroque Boudoir, will become available here in the states (December internationally.) I have long anticipated this collection, as I fell very much in love with their Royal Assets colors and vintage-inspired packaging last holiday season. If you are a fan of luxurious looking packaging as much as I am, then you will adore Baroque Boudoir.

Ethical debates over the testing of cosmetics on animals has a long history, but with Europe's animal testing ban being implemented come 2013, the race has been on to find an alternative means of testing skin allergies. It has been reported that Hurel Corporation, in collaboration with cosmetics giant L'Oreal, are in the process of devloping a microchip that would be used on artificial skin cells.

The device, which will be placed on an artificial lymph node cultivated in the lab, will test cosmetic chemicals without the use of animals and mimic the same exact allergy testing typically performed on female rodents. The microchip sounds promising and should Hurel and L'Oreal get everything in working order, are said to potentially have a working prototype ready by late 2011.

While this is extremely positive news, it does make me wonder about cosmetics companies whose sole angle and marketing method has been "Cruelty-free" and "Not Tested on Animals." If testing on animals essentially becomes extinct, it will be interesting to see how they will re-brand themselves.  

Beauty PR editor favorite and cosmetic marketing guru; Trish McEvoy, founder of Trish McEvoy beauty, is a distinguished beauty expert who has long been considered a visionary in the fields of beauty, fragrance and skincare. The Trish McEvoy brand is the modern-yet-classic line including makeup, skincare, fragrance, brushes and gifts for the sophisticated woman.

Trish's focus has always been to give women the best quality products and teach them the most effective makeup application techniques. This led her to create Group Events where Trish herself provides the ultimate makeup experience. Taking place at the Trish McEvoy Studio, participants will enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres during a step-by-step Makeup Workshop conducted by Trish herself. They will take home Trish's iconic Makeup Planner system for customization and organization filled with all the makeup and tools they need for the season, combined with a memorable understanding of makeup application.

The minimum group size is thirty participants, at a rate of $350 per person. This includes a customized skincare lesson and application, onsite brow shaping, a large Makeup Planner packed with the products used in the workshop and your choice of fragrance.

Trish established her place among pioneers in the marriage of cosmetics and dermatology with the creation of one of the nation's first medi-spas and her results-oriented line of skincare. She later became the undisputed author of makeup customization, first with her patented Makeup Planner system, a cosmetics personal organizer that condenses and holds all of your makeup in an organized fashion at your fingertips, to being amongst the first to offer fragrance lovers a customizable "wardrobe" of scents. She revolutionized makeup application as one of the first on the American beauty market to provide women with quality makeup brushes at a time when they were limited to just the sponge applicators in their compacts. Trish's extensive line of skincare, color, fragrance, brushes and Makeup Planners can be found in the top specialty stores in the U.S., UK and Ireland. She strongly believes in making personal connections with her clients, which results in regular public appearances at stores where she can listen to client needs and bring their demands to fruition in the evolution of her line.

For more information on Trish McEvoy Cosmetics please visit www.TrishMcEvoy.com .

There’s something in your nail polish besides a sassy red color. And it could hurt you. Every day, were all guilty of using products that contain chemicals we know nothing about besides their long (unpronounceable) scientific name. Now authors Siobhan O'Connor and Alexandra Spunt are looking to change that. The goal of their new book, “No More Dirty Looks: How to End Your Addiction to Chemical Cosmetics (And Still Look Hot), is to keep consumers looking beautiful— and safe.

The book sprang to life when the two authors received a hair treatment they loved, until they discovered the secret ingredient was formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, is the same chemical used as an embalming agent. The two were shocked and sought out to discover what’s actually in our beauty products.

There’s something in your nail polish besides a sassy red color. And it could hurt you. Every day, were all guilty of using products that contain chemicals we know nothing about besides their long (unpronounceable) scientific name. Now authors Siobhan O'Connor and Alexandra Spunt are looking to change that. The goal of their new book, “No More Dirty Looks: How to End Your Addiction to Chemical Cosmetics (And Still Look Hot), is to keep consumers looking beautiful— and safe.

The book sprang to life when the two authors received a hair treatment they loved, until they discovered the secret ingredient was formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, is the same chemical used as an embalming agent. The two were shocked and sought out to discover what’s actually in our beauty products.