Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York

Like most girls err.... women (nothing but grownup sentiment here) I value my bathroom time. I am lucky if I make it out of the shower in thirty minutes between scrubbing, shaving, buffing, exfoliating, and other tub activities and that doesn't even include the time I am willing to commit to an actual bath.

Thus when I say that bathroom time is sacred you can see that I spend a lot of time "in prayer" on a given day. Thus when fellow blogger Sophia turned me on to her Holy Mud I had a real chuckle at just how appropro the name is for those of us that consider the bathroom a sacred space

Fresh from the Holy Land, this concentration of carefully sifted Dead Sea Mud is rich in highly absorbent minerals that draw impurities out of your skin's tissue like a magnet. Despite all of the incredible scientific advancements and the millions of dollars the cosmetic industry spends on research and development, few products have been able to cleanse the skin, remove excess oils and help people achieve a divine complexion the way an all-natural Dead Sea Mud Mask is able to do. There are roughly 6-8 professional quality facial mask treatments per jar.

Let me tell you this mud really does sucks all the nasty out and the feeling it leaves behind is nothing short of "divine." And yes I realize I am extending this metaphor a little far but come on this mud is like a little piece of heaven.

THIS JUST IN FROM THE MEDIA OASIS: Which Pore-Yanker Ad Campaign Came First?

Check out this "unholy" plagiarism of a "pore-yank-er" brand campaign. Who came up with the idea first? Oasis annalist dont know. If you do, please comment here or send us your comment via email at info @ Piercemattie com.

What is Beauty? Many great visionaries, writers, poets, philosophers, and artists have tried to express in words or in images the meaning of beauty. These thoughts are rich in the wisdom they express and they resonate with each of us differently.

Man makes holy what he believes, as he makes beautiful what he loves. -Ernest Renan

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched ... but are felt in the heart. -Helen Keller

A thing of beauty is a joy forever. -John Keats

Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart. -Khalil Gibran

Beauty is not real. Beauty only exists in perception. -Unknown

Working in the beauty industry, our attention can be so focused on making the external beautiful - skin creams, lotions, lipsticks, mascara, hair extensions, serums, masks, gels, and the list can go on and on. These are products that help us feel beautiful, improve our looks, accentuate the positive, and give us confidence.

Women frequently struggle with how to integrate their external and internal beauty, and with all of the mass market imaging and airbrushed celebrity role models, it hasn’t been easy. But the times they are a changin’ and one of the foremost trends today is beauty integration. What does this mean? It means that women are more comfortable than ever with themselves and their looks. It means that when they purchase beauty products, they want them to look, taste, sound, and smell good - and the products must feel great on both the outside and the inside. External beauty has become experiential, it has become customized, it has become inclusive, and it has become multi-dimensional.

Being that as a nation we are about to celebrate Thanksgiving, a truly national holiday, meant for everyone, also integrative and inclusive, I suggest that we be thankful for how the meaning of beauty is growing to include what makes us feel good on the inside. Internal and authentic beauty will always remain rooted in our hearts, in our spirits, and in our ability to share ourselves with others unselfishly. Happy Holidays!

• Personal Care Appliances - Global Strategic Business Report : This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Personal Care Appliances in Thousands of Units.

• Spinduggery, The Flack: Peter Himler posts about Jeff Jarvis' snarky comment insinuating PR professionals have dishonesty in their DNA. Jeff Jarvis, being the 'spin'-ster he is, should love the quote "you can’t polish a turd."

• KFC Logo Relaunch - From Space, Near Area 51: I know all of you are saying "I thought of that months ago." Ever since Google launched satellite imagery on its maps, I've wanted to pitch this idea to a client. While not the first, KFC is doing it on a grand scale; a nice publicity stunt. For those of you who know my New York address, you can see me on the roof of my apartment building with my dogs, frozen in time from space.

• Loyalty VS. Advocacy CRM Lowdown: Most companies think that their job is done when they manage to convert a regular customer into a loyal customer. They tend to forget the guy because now ‘he can take care of himself.' Wrong! Once you’ve converted a customer, your job becomes even more difficult.

• Link Karma From The Copyblogger: 21 Surefire tips for a successful blog launch, 10 things to consider when choosing a site meter, and the five W's of great content.

• Hotels offer lots of freebies during winter (just not in New York City), The Mercury News: Winter travelers can take advantage of a number of hotel deals. Properties are offering free nights, free gift cards, special rates and other perks.

• How To Stop Comment Spam Without Lifting a Finger, Tubetorial: If you're a wordpress user, you have to visit tubetorial. Quick, easy-to-understand flash video - enjoy.

• The European Newspaper Design & Concept Awards Europe‘s most innovative newspaper 2006: Look and learn. This year, Europe’s best designed newspapers come from Belgium, Norway, Finland, Portugal and Spain. 287 newspapers from 26 countries participated in the eighth European Newspaper Award.

It’s always interesting what you can learn about someone by looking in his or her medicine cabinet. We decided to run a profile on this suspect by examining the content of her cabinet. All we know is that she is a blogger.

Clumsy white female with disposition toward obsessive compulsive disorder? Looking at suspect's top shelf, I wonder if she is clumsy. All the bandages, Neosporin, and anti-septic foam make me wonder. It’s like a first aid kit ready to go to Iraq.

Suspect will appear to be glowing year round: We detected ModelCo Tan Airbrush in a Can, Neutrogena Build-a-Tan Face, and Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer. The suspect knows her stuff. It makes me wonder, does she just like a bronzed look or is she being health conscious by not soaking up the UV rays at the local tanning salon?

She works in a professional, somewhat stressful environment and has access to some of the best ingredients around. I can tell that she must have a stressful job, perhaps a frequent traveler due to the serums she uses on her face: Leontine Upset Skin Serum, Patricia Wexler MD MMPi Skin Regenerating Serum, Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Serum on row two, and Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Concentrate in row three.

Suspect works hard and plays hard. Overwhelming evidence of being a night owl (or a late night partier?) exists. See the eye depuffing products such as Benefit’s Action Eye Gel, Kiehl's Light Nourishing Eye Cream, and Kiehl's Cryste Marine Firming Eye Treatment.

It appears suspect is a trained chemist, definitely more than just a beauty addict, but also obsessed with her hair. (See OCD indicators in my report.) She has more hair products than a myopic Sasquatch: Fekkai Sheer Hold Hairspray, Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Oil, Very Irresistible Givenchy Tender Hair Mist, Chi Silk Infusion, Oscar Blandi Jasmine Oil Hair Serum, Fekkai Technician Glaze, and Neutrogena Triple Moisture Healing Shine Serum.

Detail-Oriented And Possibly From The UK. At least we know she isn’t leaving white marks behind with her Dove Ultimate Clear Antiperspirant. The Crest Whitening Expressions Lemon Ice Toothpaste tells me that Kristen likes citrus, which is a mood booster and possibly a way to wake up in the morning from late nights? I spy Crest Whitestrips also and a Crest Toothbrush, but where is her your floss? I presume suspect follows the same dental hygiene program as The House of Carters.

Unattached. The biggest thing I can tell from suspect's cabinet is that she is single. My deduction is due to the many top of the line, brand name products peeking out at us. She also spares no expense when it comes to the care of her skin and hair.

Naturally this post is all in jest, as suspect is a good friend of mine. You can tell that suspect is a little more than just “a little obsessed with makeup,” and that is why the girl is so beautiful. Continue reading this post for suspect's identity...

As I was washing my hair today I noticed that my ISO Shampoo had an expiration date on it. I thought that was unusual, as I haven't noticed any of my other shampoo's alerting me to when they would expire. I decided to look through some of my other products in my bathroom to see if any others would have expiration dates. I was surprised to find that half did and half didn't. All the products that did varied in expiration. For example, my Ojon Revitalizing Mist expires in 18 months; my Jane Iredale blush in 24 months and my Joico Silk Result in 12 months. Since I am one to horde beauty products until I have finished every last bit of them, I decided it’s best to note shelf life on your beauty products.

Sometimes there are products I get excited about and then there are the products I want to shout from the rooftops about. Some products I got to try out for review from Earth Therapeutics have me wanting to shout from the rooftops without a doubt.

Purifying Salt Scrub Detox Formula: Out of the three products, this is the one that I was most excited to try. I know the benefits of using Salt Scrub, especially those made with Dead Sea Salts. Earth Therapeutics Salt Scrub also contains organic Tea Tree Oil, which enhances cleansing and detoxification, and moisturizing essential oils. While the oils feel slick in the shower, once you get out and dry off, you feel nothing but baby soft skin. Using this once a week has given me fabulously soft skin, which has helped solved my winter-skin dilemma.

Soothing Leg Lotion: The scent of this lotion is heavenly. This lotion has Rosemary, Wild Mint and Aloe Vera. The consistency is almost like a silky shower gel. It spreads easily and absorbs nicely. It made my legs feel wonderfully soft and I loved the scent so much, that I put it on my hands before bed. I found the scent to be so relaxing, that it helped me fall to sleep.

Nail & Cuticle Care: If you are someone whose nails are brittle and whose cuticles crack easily, this is surely the nail conditioner for you. When I rubbed it on my nails and over my cuticles I could almost hear them saying, “ahhh,” in relief. The scent was a nice citrus scent, which I love. It contains Sesame Oil to moisturize, Pure Australian Tea Tree Oil to protect your nails from infection and an Organic Nutrient Matrix to nourish and deep condition your nail bed and cuticles.

Have you used any Earth Therapeutics products? Let me know what you thought in the comments.

Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that has been increasing in popularity in recent years. While many over the counter brands are now offering their products for the purpose of Microdermabrasion, it is still best to have the treatment done by a skincare professional and/or using the products developed by one.

While simply exfoliating your skin is something you should be doing on a weekly basis, Microdermabrasion is a more effective treatment to treat fine lines, crow’s feet and acne scars. It’s use of a polishing your skin with crystals to resurface your skin is a safe alternative to chemical procedures and can be successfully done on all skin types. This resurfacing of the top layer of skin removes the dead skin cells and helps with the regenerating of new skin cells. With this top layer of dead skin cells removed, application of lotions and creams are more effective at moisturizing your skin. Most treatments can be done in 30-60 minutes and do require several follow up treatments. To maintain that healthy glow, maintenance treatments should also be done.

Dermalogica on Montana offers exfoliating treatments like Microdermabrasion. As with any skin treatment you are considering, you should first be seen by a skin care professional to ensure that this is the correct treatment for you. Dermalogica offers Face Mapping in which licensed Dermalogica skin therapists analyze your skin from forehead to collarbone, identifying potential problems, unique needs, and how to treat them professionally. Face Mapping only takes 10 minutes and is free.

Take an inside look into a Skin Treatment Pod at Dermalogica on Montana (the brands flagship store):

Although Blogging has been around for years, approaching Bloggers to review or pitch your products is fairly new and growing in momentum. If you are thinking of approaching a Blogger to review your products, there is a protocol that sometimes many companies do not invest their time to understand and follow.

As a beauty Blogger, I receive many emails on a weekly basis from companies and PR firms big and small to find out if I am interested in reviewing their products on my two beauty blogs. There are some that exude professionalism both in the way they approach me through their emails, through the way the package is sent and in their follow up. Then there are the mass emails, lack of PR materials with the product, presentation of the product and lack of follow up. The difference between the two potentially means your emails go in my trash folder.

Things you should not do when you approach a Blogger:

Send out a mass email, most notably saying “Dear Bloggers” or having no greeting at all. While some newer Bloggers may respond to this, many seasoned Bloggers won’t. It is the sign of a company simply harvesting your contact information and not taking the time to personally contact you, as they want you to personally review their product. It is a two way street.

Have the expectation that the Blogger will want to review your product simply because you offered it for free. Bloggers know their readers and most will only review products that are 1. Related to their blog and 2. Something that would be of interest to their readers.

Insincerely attempt to flatter them. So many companies do it and many times I receive the same email to each of my accounts for my blogs when the company doesn’t even realize they are sending it to the same person. Bloggers can read between the lines.

We all experienced the rise of “metrosexuality” a couple years ago, marked by an emergence of hair-care, skin-care, and grooming products in the men’s market. Heterosexual men were being told that it was now ok, and expected, to want to look their best and use the types of products they saw on their girlfriend’s bathroom counter. I remember my shock when I was getting a manicure in my hometown and in walked a guy I went to High School with- I hadn’t expected to have a male customer come sit next to me, but then again, it was the trend at the time.

Above: Marco Dapper, December 2006 Most beautiful Man

All trends come to an end, though, and this year we witnessed the apparent “death of metrosexuality.” To compensate for the lack of masculinity in recent years, the new trend is "macho"- men that are proud to say their beauty routine consists of soap, water, and toothpaste only. Advertisers are catching up with the trend as well, with popular brands trying to exude masculinity in their commercials. As just one example, Miller Lite’s “Man Laws” ad campaign this year included guys at a square table discussing the code of what manly men can and cannot do.

Manufacturers have also had to take note, in that packaging has become more and more important because it is usually the consumer’s first contact with a product. If the package hints at any type of femininity, a lot of men will steer clear. On the other hand, if the packaging conveys a sense of strength and masculinity, it will be accepted by a larger amount of the male population. One of our men’s grooming clients, for example, does a great job of providing luxury grooming equipment for men without coming across as “metrosexual.” Hommage’s line of shaving sets will not only help men look and feel their best, but will also ensure an image of masculinity and tradition. Take note ladies- with Christmas and Valentine’s Day on the way, these shave sets are the perfect gift for the "manly" men in your life.

My skin and I have been at odds with each other for the longest time. I don’t necessarily have normal to oily skin, but dry to oily skin. It’s really been a quagmire to find a product that won’t further dry out the dry areas, but won’t also moisturize too much in the oily areas either.

Several weeks ago I began using Epionce’s Lytic Gel Cleanser and Purifying Lytic Toner, both are geared towards problem skin types. Both products are fragrance free and non-comedogenic. I was, of course, skeptical that this would be the product to reduce that shine, yet still keep the dry sections of my face from further damage.

Before I even get into how the product worked, I liked right away how the Lytic Gel Cleanser’s top had an open/close twist to it. This is perfect for when you have to travel and pack it away, so that it is not leaking all over your clothes. Furthermore, as a parent, it means little fingers cannot get a hold of it and pump away my precious product.

I hope everyone rang in the new year in style! Here's to some great fashion and beauty blogs to kick off the Weekend Pulse for 2007:

Fashion:

+ The Fashionator is happy big glasses are out, but nerdy glasses are surprisingly sexy.

+ Organic_Clothing explains the reason behind the high cost of organic fashion.

+ Coffee Break posts about Madonna’s new line of clothing for children that is a spin-off from her books.

Beauty:

+ Now Smell This reviews Ralph Rocks by Ralph Lauren.

+ RealSelf Blog reports on how to avoid a bad face lift.

+ Ms. New Beauty gives her latest installation of Cheap & Chic: Everything’s Coming up Roses.

It's only a few weeks into Winter, but it already feels like Spring. Here's some fabulous links from some great beauty and fashion blogs to put a little spring in your step!

Fashion:

+ Couture in the City discusses the fashion of designer Sari Gueron.

+ Debutante Clothing is thrilled that high waisted pants are making a comeback (me too, for that matter!)

+ Groove Effect takes a look at Imaginary Foundation Art and Streetwear.

Beauty:

+ Product Girl reviews Smashbox's Tokidoki Skin Tint (I'm so glad Carla is back blogging, aren't you?)

+ Beauty & Personality Grooming goes over the general rules of lipstick.

+ Fantabulous reviews Good Skin Soft Reflections Illuminating Loose Powder.

Yes, I know it's not a scoop, but I wanted to post about Clive Owen, a 41-year-old British actor, has been hired to be the latest celebrity to market products for the L'Oreal owned beauty company, Lancome. Previous celebrities that touted the brand are Uma Therman and Mena Suvari, among others. Lancome's hope is that his charming and rugged look will attract more men to feel comfortable purchasing skincare products.

"The way he has built his career so far, privileging the quality of the director rather than the high-profile nature of a role, makes us feel very confident in the fact that if he chose to accept this collaboration with Lancome, then it truly means our partnership was meant to be,"

Owen is reported to be getting $2.5 million pounds (you do the math to convert that to US$) for the advertising campaign. Owen will be appearing in ads for Lancome's new men's grooming line, called Lancome Men, which includes fragrance and anti-aging products. The ad campaign and products will launch this Spring in the US. However, you can see the products now on Lancome's international website.

If you want to read more about what's going on in the Beauty Industry, be sure to check out our Beauty PR blog.

If you watched the second two-hour premiere of 24 last night you'll know why Los Angele's is stocking up on Clarins Expertise 3P. It's a new plant-based mist that is said to shield your skin from electromagnetic waves and daily environmental pollution by reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against free radicals and increasing cellular energy. Since this product only launched this month I have yet to use it, however I did a lot of searching online to see what others have been saying about it. It appears that there is some debate over whether this is hype or a true plausible product.

While many beauty Bloggers seem thrilled with such a product coming out on the market, it seems that those in the tech world find it laughable. Engadget made a stab at it and a commenter on Yahoo Tech cited the National Toxic Encephalopathy Foundation as one who exposes the truth on Clarins. Pierce wrote about the NTEF, a client of Russ Fons PR, back in October when they issued a press release bashing Clarins.

As I get sent products to review often, one thing I have been seeing more of is shielding lotions. So the concept of a shielding mist is really not that far fetched. A few commenters on Engadget brought up a good point and one that I agree with. Shielding products appear to work in the same way sunscreen is meant to work; blocking out what is bad for your skin and letting the good pass through. Our president loves the idea and placed his order last week and made it his pick for the week. I’m not sure why the idea of a shielding mist is that hard to grasp. As we come to know what affects our skin, doctors and scientists are able to move forward in finding ways to protect it. While the FDA does not regulate the cosmetics and skin care industry, it certainly polices itself. Many companies do their own laboratory research to create products that deliver a solution to a skin care issue. I’m sure Clarins did a substantial amount of research to produce a product that delivers on its promise.

If you have tried this product, let us know what you thought of it.

Here's what some great blogs in beauty and fashion are talking about:

Fashion:

+ Bunnyshop muses about a possible Spring Trend: Gold Legging’s.

+ The Purse Blog posts a letter to Gucci regarding The Gucci Dog Backpack (it is a very amusing read!)

+ Counterfeit Chic weighs in on the controversy regarding weight and models.

Beauty:

+ 99 Products raves about Ojon’s Tawaka Ancient Tribal Rejuvenating Cream.

+ Pretty by Nature offers a tip: Stop Pulling your face.

+ Pure Spa discusses the 30 minute Migun massage.

Kiss My Face was a green beauty company before green became an in thing. Every product they sell is organic without anything artificial at all. Yet going organic certainly doesn’t mean that quality is compromised at any point or that organic means a heavy price point. Most Kiss My Face users will tell you, their products are top notch and won’t break the bank in the process.

It’s not very often that you can go to a company’s website and read the background on how things were started, and if you can find one, you certainly will not find one so personable and down to earth. When you read the story behind how Kiss My Face began and their mission and purpose of their products you can’t help but feel their humor, lightheartedness, and of course their love for our great Earth. Their story is definitely a Squash to Riches story and one I think everyone should read.

Kiss My Face sells a variety of products for your bath, body and more. The products range from hair care to soap to facial moisturizers. Since we all know that organic is not only earth friendly, but also skin friendly, more people who may have a sensitivity to ingredients in other products may find comfort here.

If you use Kiss My Face, what is your favorite product from their line?

Decleor Paris is a luxurious face, body and suncare line for both men and women. Decleor was founded by a team of aromatherapy experts who use their knowledge of active plant extracts to create a comprehensive line of products that are both preventative and on going natural skin care. Decleor is also partnered by Shiseido, known for their wonderful beauty products, and are also the 4th largest beauty group in the industry.

Essential oils have wonderful healing properties with aromatic fragrances that, depending on which oil is used or combined with another, promotes such things as well being, calm, relaxation and so on, therefore promoting balance of both body and mind.

While Decleor’s packaging makes you feel like you just bought a diamond necklace at Tiffany’s, don’t be fooled that the luxury ends there. It’s what is inside the package that is luxurious, making your skin look and feel like you just spent hours at the spa. In fact, Decleor also offers Salon and Spa treatments at select locations. Within the US, it is at Hotel Sofitel in Los Angeles where you can receive their Aroma Mosaic treatments that focuses on care of your face, body and the effects of the sun. Each focused treatment is broken down to be tailor made based on the needs of each individual.

You can find Decleor products in various cities throughout the country or locate one close to you with your zip code through their website: www.decleor-us.com

Parabens. (Que the horror music sound effect) Just say the word to anyone on the street and you will get a variety of responses. Many believe what they have heard and warn you against using any products that contain them and many just want to wait until science proves that parabens are really harmful to you, as that is not proven yet. It just seems that these days the words parabens and cancer go hand in hand without any conclusive evidence that they actually do. I like to make sure I'm not subscribing to a lobbyist who has ulterior motives for financial gain, and no I'm not a conspiracy freak, (ok maybe just a tad) I was recently told (by my therapist) that that quality is at the heart of all good journalists... a desire to dig for the real truth... or conspiracy!

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.

And another beauty, Jessica Biel, was a standout at the Golden Globes red carpet this week, not only for her rockin' body and her beautiful dress, but her skin was amazing! Now we are going to show you how she got that golden glow. Everyone from desperate moms-to-be to "dreamgirls" know that perfect skin is the key to looking good in hollywood. and when Jennifer, Marcia, Jessica biel, and even Elijah Woods want baby-smooth amazing skin, they start at Dermalogica.

Cut to Dermalogica On Montana Pod: they're doing what is called the microzone where they're zoning in on a specific area. it's about 20 minutes. this is the process that you would be doing four weeks prior to your event. what i'm doing here is a rapid result treatment. the ultrasound actually gives a deeper cleanse, and while it's giving a deeper cleanse, it's actually exfoliating. it gets down into the deeper epidermis, so it's giving a really good effect on the skin. what i'm doing is called a high frequency. it's great for any sort of blemish or acne. this is also great for oily skin. so it isn't just for actresses and actors in the business. you can be a celebrity, too. >> now that's what i call equal opportunity beauty. Watch More

NicoDerm has launched a new anti-wrinkle campaign for smokers looking to quit called “The Beauty of Quitting.” This new campaign is targeted at the other effects smoking has on you that many do not take into account. Of course cancer is serious and absolutely life threatening, however smoking has a long list of side effects that also include wreaking havoc on your skin. Pierce Mattie is very much against smoking and encourages all of his employees not smoke. In fact, he pays for those that do to go on the patch.

As an ex-smoker myself, I can tell you that there were definite things I noticed while smoking. My “smoking hand,” most especially the fingernails nearest my cigarette, were always yellow; my skin was always dry no matter how much lotion I slapped on; and my teeth looked grayish in color. I was only a smoker for 5 years, but still began to see the effects take shape in that small period of time. When switching to a new health insurance 3 years after quitting, a blood test told them that I was still a smoker. I contested it and they revealed to me that nicotine stays in your bloodstream for up to 10 years after you quit.

Karen A. Newman is Editor in Chief of Global Cosmetic Industry magazine. Global Cosmetic Industry magazine is the business and marketing magazine read by cosmetic, fragrance and personal care product manufacturers and brand owners who look to the publication for the strategies behind the industry success stories. Karen also writes GCI's blog called Beauty Union.

Where do you see cosmetic packaging trends in color cosmetics going in 2007?
One interesting trend we see is in making it easier to apply makeup. Applicators are being refined to meet a very specific purpose for everything from foundation to eyeliner. The new lipstick packaging from Cargo is a hint of what’s to come in recyclable packaging.

What popular scents are being used in fragrances for 2007?
Among recent releases, a broad range of floral and citrus scents are represented, as are musk, sandalwood and patchouli.

Which brands do you seem to get the most press releases about?
We get a lot of press releases from professional beauty brands – and mostly hair care. We hear regularly from Pureology and Thermafuse as well as Graham Webb International, ISO and Joico, but we hear from a wonderfully broad selection of marketers in every category – and we never get tired of hearing about the new things companies are doing. There’s a lot of passion in the beauty industry.

What do you think was the best product launch of 2006?
There were a few that I especially liked. The Yves Saint Laurent Perfect Touch Radiant Brush Foundation offers a built in brush, which speaks to the packaging trend question. Freeze 24/7’s Ice Shield Facial Cleanser with SPF 15 is interesting because it is the first product to commercialize a new delivery system that helps ingredients such as sunscreens bond with the skin so they can be left behind after cleansing. John Frieda’s Luminous Color Glaze puts a salon treatment into at-home use at a mass price.

Any changes taking place for GCI in 2007, editorial content, advisory board, etc.?
We introduced a new editorial advisory board at the end of 2006. This is exciting for us as it is a great group of industry professionals who are going to help us create content that is smart and spot on for our readers. The group includes: Roger Caracappa, The Estee Lauder Companies; Beth Ann Catalano, twist.new.brand.venture; Peter Gallagher, Unilever; Liz Grubow, LPK; Tina Hedges, twist.new.brand.venture; Camille McDonald, Bath & Body Works; Debbie Murtha, Macy’s Merchandising Group; Art Rich, A. Rich Development; Marc Rosen, Marc Rosen Associates; and Laura Setzfand, The Hain Celectial Group Personal Care Division. We’re really excited to be working with this stellar group!

Do you see the faux botox craze stopping?
I don’t see it stopping as long as consumers can find products that give them the temporary smoothing they are looking for.

Last year we saw many brands launching anti-wrinkle campaigns and going after the baby boomer market. Why not? After all, they were considered the largest demographic out there. However, we are only a month into 2007 and the tides are starting to change. Brands are beginning to turn their interests to the children of baby boomers and finding that they have money to spend with the potential for long-term brand loyalty.

This younger generation learned well from their mothers, I should know, my mother is 55 and I carefully paid attention to all of the brands she purchased throughout the years. I watched at how well my mother took care of her skin and in turn, I followed suit becoming a loyal customer to many brands. This is just what the beauty industry is betting on resonating throughout the 17-35 year old demographic.

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.

NYC Fashion Week is in full swing, which designer styles and makeup looks do you love so far? Here are some links from the last week around the beauty and fashion blogosphere, with a few checking in on Fashion Week.

Fashion:

+ Fashion Tribes shows off some spectacular photos with a summary of the Red Dress Collection at NYC Fashion Week.

+ Omiru: Style for All interviews Meghan Parsons, the designer behind the jack&marjorie brand.

+ Style Bites gives a review of Max Azria’s Fall 2007 Collection from NYC Fashion Week.

Beauty:

+ Beauty Hobby reviews High Performance Organics Spa Hair Conditioner and Raw Sugar Scrub.

+ Mystical Beauty’s Musings reviews Lumiere Mineral Cosmetics.

+ I am Pretty NYC gives some beauty tips on how to go gray gracefully.

Greg Cartwright has been a Massage Therapist for the past 8 years and Body Sugaring Expert for the last 4. He is accomplished in numerous massage techniques, including Shiatsu, sports and Swedish massage. Additionally, he is certified in Thai massage by the Traditional Medicinal Hospital of Thailand. Greg has been trained by top-tier cosmetology companies, such as La Prairie, Alexandria and SkinCeuticals - to use and administer their products. He achieved his Licensed Esthetician certification through The Aveda Institute.

Greg has always been a person who loves working with his hands, is service oriented and understands building relationships with his clients. Prior to starting Downtime Massage and Skincare, he was a chef at the Ritz in London, Moomba in NYC and private chef to a CEO of one of America’s best-known fashion companies.

What prompted your decision to change your career from being a chef to becoming a massage therapist and esthetician?
The food industry is brutal and there is a certain lifestyle that goes along with being in it. After 10 years and an injury in the kitchen, I was ready for a lifestyle change. At that time I was introduced to Yoga and went to a chiropractor. It was at the Chiropractor’s office that I saw massage for the first time. I love doing things for others; using my hands and making people feel better. I saw that I could achieve this through massage and that is when I decided to begin training to become a massage therapist and eventually a licensed esthetician.

L'Oreal is looking to add ayurvedic beauty products to its current skin care line up through acquisition of an Indian ayurvedic brand. Although L'Oreal hasn't identified a brand that it wishes to acquire just yet, it has been aggressively pursuing the ayurvedic market in India to tap into consumer's growing desire to use exotic beauty products. It was also reported last November that L'Oreal expressed interest in acquiring Ayusoft, ayurvedic software that they approached the CDAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) for customization and further product development of.

As I mentioned yesterday another French company, L'Artisan Parfumeur, will be launching Jatamansi next month. Jatamansi is their first venture into the skin care market and is one that is based on the Himalayan plant used in Ayurveda, an alternative medicine practiced in India. Beauty and personal care products that are ayurvedic are organic and promote healing and health without the use of synthetics or chemicals.

Erbaviva first began its organic line of products to focus on babies and with its success, developed a line for mom’s to be. As success of their products has grown, they have added Aromatherapy and Bath & Body lines that have been sold in high-end boutiques and spas. Now Erbaviva has created their USDA Certified Organic line of products called Erbaorganics and have partnered with Target to sell the brand.

In the realm of beauty where there is no FDA regulation and in an industry that relies upon policing itself, Erbaorganics gaining the USDA’s seal of Certified Organic, means that they are held up to the same quality and standards as organic food. Certified Organic means that you can be assured that there it is chemical-free and hormone-free and that it is organic-plant based. Something I can assure you many mothers think about when applying products to their new baby’s skin. Besides becoming one of the first beauty brands to be USDA certified, it is also one of the first brands to be marketed to the masses through such a retailer like Target. Mass distribution also means a lower price point for consumers and those entering the doors of Target don’t expect to pay a lot for their beauty products, yet demand quality at the same time.

The collaboration of Erbaviva LLC and Target seems to be remaining with the focus of branding that Target has made for itself over the last several years. First adding top household designers to bring a high-end look to their housewares and home decor at a fraction of the price, then adding fashion designers like Liz Lange and Isaac Mizrahi, beauty products by Sonia Kashuk and now Erbaorganics, it seems that Target is setting a standard that other mass retailers fall far behind on.

I am a big fan of Target, so the addition of a high quality totally organic product line for mothers to be like myself and my soon to be newborn son, are a wonderfully appropriate fit.

Fashion:

+ Kiss Me Stace writes a post pertaining to the alarming trend of faux fur being from domestic dogs.

+ Hip Candy snags an interview with Kathleen, America’s Next Top Model’s first elimated model.

+ What Every Woman Needs in Her Wardrobe reflects on the beauty of style that is irregular.

Beauty:

+ Now Smell This reviews Lea St. Barth a fragrance by Calypso St Barth.

+ Life of a Ladybug reviews Urban Decay’s Smoke Out eye pencil, Bobbi Brown’s Eye Brighter and blush, and Milani’s Crystal Gloss (all in one post!)

+ DeLush reviews Clinique’s All About Eyes Rich moisturizer.

Fashion:

+ Chic Inspector inspects the color trend pop that was witnessed at many of the Fall 2007 fashion week shows.

+ Lady Licorice discusses and shows you the perfect layering pieces that you can wear now throughout Spring.

+ Cuffington discusses how that Audrey Hepburn dress that sold at auction for $807,000 has turned into more than “just a dress,” but a chance for 3000 children to receive the benefit of an education in India.

Beauty:

+ Legerdenez reviews Michael Kors Island.

+ Canadian Beauty reviews MD Skincare’s All in One Tinted Moisturizer.

+ Nail Tech Secrets reviews the Dashing Diva’s Extra Virgin Collection of nail polish.

1. Always remove your makeup prior to going to bed. It’s best to use a makeup remover that is oil-free and alcohol-free. My favorite would be Korres Jasmine Eye Makeup Remover.

2. Follow a daily routine of cleansing, toning and moisturizing your face. Cleansing should be done twice a day (morning and night) and with the use of a gentle cleanser. Toning will help tighten your skin and restore your skin’s optimal Ph level, thus balancing it, prior to applying moisturizer. Maximize hydrating your skin by using a day moisturizer and a night cream. A daytime moisturizer is one that is lighter and works well under your makeup and the night cream is thicker and works hard through the night hydrating the areas you tend to see more dryness in. For this routine I switch between Korres and Epionce products.

3. Exfoliate at least once per week. Exfoliating is so important for your skin to remain vibrant and healthy. While our skin naturally sheds the dead cells, they can clog up pores and create those dry patches you find often on your skin. Exfoliating will slough off that layer of dead skin promoting optimal benefits when moisturizing. I use various exfoliators including Korres Olive Stones, Jordan Essentials Spa Polish and recently, Cosmedicine’s Medi-Morphosis.

4. Use a mask 1-2 times per week. Using a good mask will correct and detoxify your skin hydrating it and absorbing excess oil. It is especially beneficial to those who have oily and combination skin. I love cream masks and mud masks. I interchangeably use Korres Wild Rose Mask and Darshan Beauty’s Multani Facial Mud Mask.

5. Protect your face with daily sunscreen or a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. The damage that UVA and UVB rays do to your skin from repeated unprotected sun exposure may not be evident right now, but in years to come it will be something you can no longer hide. KaplanMD offers the best of both worlds with a Day Cream SPF 15. If you have a Five Things topic you think would make for an interesting post, please be sure to tell us in the comments! Find more posts like this on the Beauty Pro Division Blog.

Fashion:

+ Turlie reviews Valentino’s Fall/Winter Collection from Milan Fashion Week.

+ Fashion.Verbatim talks to Duckie Brown's Steven Cox and Daniel Silver.

+ All About Style shows you how shoes really do make the outfit.

Beauty:

+ Spa Blah Blah reviews LUSH’s Fresh Face Mask’s.

+ GirlPaint review’s Dove’s Skin Vitalizer.

+ Beauty Hobby gives you ten reasons to drink aloe vera gel.

Fashion:

+ The Bargain Queen gives a list of 10 things you must have to be stylish. (It’s pretty clever.)

+ The Jewelry Weblog discusses Black Chandelier’s Hissing Roach Brooch. My 2 cents—I’ve killed enough roaches in my time to know that I don’t want to wear a live one as jewelry.

+ Style Dash asks, “Are we slaves to fashion?”

Beauty:

+ Bois de Jasmin reviews the fragrance Annick Goutal Le Chevrefeuille.

+ Beauty Snob review’s Fresh’s Sugar Face Polish.

+ Lipstick Powder n’ Paint reviews Palm Sugar Spa products.

Fashion:

+ Style Bubble lends her thoughts on the new Kate Moss for TopShop collection.

+ Debutante Clothing brings up the issue of Fashion Copyright, which goes along with what Jason Jobson and I have been discussing on The Fashion Rag.

+ Men’s Flair helps you find a pair of sunglasses for your face shape.

Beauty:

+ Beautynomics reviews Epoch’s Blemish Treatment.

+ Beauty Banter review’s Cleo Bath & Body products.

+ A Touch of Blusher discusses Spring/Summer’s newest trend: white eyeshadow.

Fashion:

+ Style Critic gives the lowdown on A.P.O.’s Personalized-Designer Jeans.

+ No good for me shows that eco-fashion can even be a pretty wood pulp dress.

+ Fashion & Style Tips gives advice from a fashion leader. Not only is this post so true, but it is quirky and quite possibly the best post I have read all week.

Beauty:

+ Canadian Beauty reviews Philosophy’s Sweet Coconut Body Butter.

+ The Makeup Girl gives you Tools 101, a short list of must-have tools to always keep in your makeup bag.

+ Beauty Pro: Check out my review on Kiss My Face’s Tighten Up Moisturizer.

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).

Mother’s Day is only a few short weeks away and happens to be, in my opinion, a day that all mothers look forward to for the pampering, the gifts and demonstrations of love by her family. With consumer spending for Mother’s Day gifts expected to be $15.73 billion, these last few weeks before the big day are a fantastic opportunity to get your brand noticed, especially online.

According to the National Retail Federation’s 2007 Mother’s Day Consumer Actions and Intentions survey, 20% of consumers are expected to do their Mother’s Day gift shopping online, which is a 3.1% increase from last year. Although the other 80% do their gift buying offline, many still use the internet to research and look for gift ideas. While Mother’s Day shopping and gift research typically begins at the beginning of April, far more consumers make their purchase much closer to the holiday, which occurs on May 13th this year.

By utilizing the internet to spread the word about your product(s) as great gift ideas for mom, your advertising costs will be much less versus commercial and print ads and more likely to spread the word faster due to viral marketing. A few ways to utilize the web to get your products before Mother’s Day gift searchers are:

Press Releases
Advertisements on targeted websites
Advertisements on targeted blogs
Promoting them to blog owners

Online press releases are great for search engine optimization and will quickly get you picked up by the likes of Google and Yahoo when consumers do an online search. Using keywords in the title of your press release is a key factor. Key phrases to use are “Mother’s Day gifts” and “Mother’s Day gift ideas.” Some online press release services are PR NewsWire, Send2Press and PRWeb Direct. You can also use these same press releases to email to blog owners, but make sure to include links to your products (if you have an online site) and pictures as well.

Sunscreen is a must.

We all know that the most important part of our skin regimen is to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays. Since we have to use it, why not use a sunscreen that will help maintain the health of our skin while preventing future damage?

Epionce has a sunscreen that protects from the sun and maintains the healthy skin lifestyle. Suitable for ages 0 – 150!

With unique ingredients such as mint leaf, lavender and safflower extract, even the most sensitive skin will be protected without irritation.

Active Shield Lotion SPF 30+ is a light, quick-absorbing, broad-spectrum sheer lotion designed for active use to help prevent skin damage caused by UV radiation and reduce the risk of skin cancer associated with sun exposure. It has water-resistant properties that help prevent it from running off the skin during moderate outdoor activities.

For more information, please visit www.epionce.com

Active Shield Lotion SPF 30+, $38.00

One Vodka and Tonic with a twist of fine lines and wrinkles, a Cosmopolitan with a shot of cellulite reduction, and while you’re at it, bring me a Mojito Moisturizer on the rocks.

Seem a little strange? Well, believe it or not, with Borba’s Skin Balance Age Defying Aqua-Less Crystalline ($28-$100), these drinks are now available at any of the hottest clubs. Just keep a few packets of Borba in your purse or clutch and turn any of your favorite drinks into your own elixir of youth.

These liquid activated powders dissolve in water or any of your preferred beverages and after drinking twice a day for seven days, will actually improve the clarity of your skin. From moisturizing to firming, choose the regimen that meets your needs and drink your way to a better complexion. Cheers!

Simone Weil once said, “beauty always promises, but never gives anything.” It’s easy to understand what she means. After devotedly cleansing, tweezing, curling, applying, we still wake up in the morning to puffy eyes and red spots and can’t help feeling a little neglected. But before considering breaking off the relationship for good, here’s the latest on a new beauty website coming this fall from Total Beauty, maybe there’s hope for us after all.

Total Beauty Media, headed by industry vets from Procter & Gamble and Daily Candy, is launching the first beauty site for women. This comprehensive product library is also a social community so you can learn and share tips on how to achieve “a look” with products that fit certain skin types and price points.

Finally, a place where you can find solutions to perplexing beauty problems and purchase the latest products to address them.

If only other relationships could be revived this easily.

Weekends were meant for relaxing, but I was catching up on my Fashion and Beauty Blog reading to brighten your Monday. Here are some great blog posts worthy of your attention:

Fashion:

+ Chic by Nature looks at all of the colorful ways Hayden Panettiere wears Suzanne Juul’s eco-friendly knit dress.

+ Shoe Blitz posts about the comeback of Keds ever since Mischa Barton became the spokesperson.

+ Style It Less kicks off her Celebrity Bargain Stylers series with Angelina Jolie’s thrift store dress.

Beauty:

+ The Scented Life reviews DKNY Be Delicious cologne.

+ Beauty Addict reviews Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher.

+ SugarShock reviews the Napa Mist Atomizer and First Crush Lip Scrub from 29 Cosmetics summer collection.

I found this great article written in Good Housekeeping by Colette Bouchez: 5 Beauty Tips and Secrets Every Woman Should Know. It's a great article every woman should read.

Beauty Tip 1: Never Underestimate the Power of Moisturizer
Beauty Tip 2: Sunscreen Is Your Best Antiaging Product.
Beauty Tip 3: Choose Your Cleanser Wisely
Beauty Tip 4: Use the Right Tools for the Right Job
Beauty Tip 5: Update Hair and Makeup Every 2 Years

Fashion:

+ Fashion Indie is calling for an Indie-wide ban on Britney Spears for her tasteless use of a Zac Posen gown as a doggy outhouse.

+ Bag Bliss writes about Gwen Stephani filing suit against Forever 21.

+ MetroStyleMen has a post that is really quite interesting and the “fashion” displayed is really quite…well see for yourself.

Beauty:

+ The it Lists reviews Fekkai’s Beach Waves.

+ Spa Blah Blah Blog gives some beauty recipes for a cucumber mask and toner.

+ Hello Dollface reviews GapBody’s Bath & Skin Collection.

Fashion:

+ Petite Fashionista breaks down Park Ave Chic and Jet Set style in Part 4 of her “What’s Your Fashion Personality” series of posts.

+ On The Fashion Rag, I announced the Fall launch of PORTFOLIO, a fashion newsmagazine for your cell and PDA.

+ MyAirShoes.com gives a preview of Clae’s “Russell” shoes coming out this Fall.

Beauty:

+ 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic gives some great tips on caring for your manicure.

+ The Non-Blonde reviews Bobbi Brown’s Lathering Tube Soap.

+ Delush reviews Kiss My Face Rosemary & Melon Hand Soap.

Fashion:

+ The Budget Fashionista alerts us to a possible trend that is big in the UK—Jodhpurs.

+ I Like Her Style gives you Work Wear 101: The Corporate Diva.

+ Bag Bliss announces Karl Lagerfeld’s plans to launch a new handbag line.

Beauty:

+ Canadian Beauty reviews J.R. Watkins Body Oil.

+ Makeup and Beauty Blog goes backstage with MAC Cosmetics on opening night at San Francisco Fashion Week.

+ A Touch of Blusher reviews Dior’s merger of handbag and makeup palette in the Dior Diorissime Palette for Fall 2007.

Fashion:

+ Trendible is talking about Sak’s Fifth Avenue’s new 10022-Shoe, which sounds like it is right up my alley.

+ Fashion-Incubator discusses the number one mistake of new fashion designers.

+ Please Don’t Feed The Models discussed an article she read on a law school grad who gets ultra-green by building her wardrobe from clothes she finds on the streets (some of which are Designer duds). Although it doesn't sound terribly fabulous, it's actually pretty interesting the clothes she finds.

Beauty:

+ The Scented Life reviews Peace Comes From Within fragrance.

+ Bella Sugar offers a great home spa tip with a DIY recipe for a Mojito Hand Scrub.

+ We Love Beauty gives you the rundown of some pretty fabulous primers for your skin, eyes, lips and lashes.

Institut' DERMed came to fruition as a result of Founder, Lyn Ross' battle with teenage acne. While most teens battle a pimple here and there, Lyn fought acne since age 11 with her defining moment being her Senior Prom. The embarrassment and heartache she felt over her blemished skin is what lead her to her life's purpose of formulating cosmeceuticals and founding her Georgia-based company, Institut' DERMed.

Growing up in the 60's, skin care was not as advanced as it is now and Lyn's only known way to fight her acne were with Clearasil and Noxzema. It became a never ending cycle of drying out her skin and attempting to cover it up with makeup. When her acne flared up, her self -esteem would sink and it is with that understanding of the connection between emotional well-being and skin health that Lyn Ross is able to do what she does best--helping others with their skin afflictions.

Lyn Ross is licensed through the Georgia Board of Cosmetology as a Master Esthetician and has over 25 years of experience in the field of professional aesthetics. Lyn is passionate about skin care and her focus is educating physicians, nurses, and estheticians on the benefits of clinical skin health care. She lectures frequently on the latest advances in skin and body rejuvenation. She has appeared as a guest on radio and television programs addressing common concerns of skin health including acne, skin discolorations and premature aging. She has been a contributor to several professional and consumer publications, in addition to authoring chapters for textbooks. Lyn is committed to researching and innovating the latest products and therapies for healthy aging.

Lyn is "hands on" when it comes to skin care, keeping in touch with her clients so that she can learn from them and develop new products to meet their needs. Their skin health is a priority for Lyn; watching her client's spirit heal as their skin heals is infinitely rewarding and inspiring to her.

About Institut' DERMed:

Institut' DERMed encompasses three distinct services: a MediClinical Spa, an education facility and an extensive line of treatment products. The Spa combines aesthetic beauty therapies with scientific medical approaches offering unrivaled care and superior treatment results. Institut’ DERMed offers the latest in technologically advanced skin and body care and medical affiliations include distinguished and nationally recognized plastic surgeons and dermatologists who endorse DERMed treatments and recommend the extensive therapeutic options for facial and body rejuvenation. The collaborative relationship between medicine and aesthetics insures client results, comfort and satisfaction for preserving a healthy, youthful appearance and creating radiant health.

Solessence began as a small act of kindness. Growing up, founder Hillary Fry’s mother shared from her heritage the wonders and uses of botanicals and herbs for healing, pleasure and pampering through creams, soap, salves. Her father, the one with wanderlust, enjoyed tracking down hard-to-find ingredients (this was before the age of the internet), and would share his stories from travels the world over. Family projects were learning experiences where beauty and art were always combined.

When friends who had moved to harsher climates began to lament of dry skin and cracked heels, it was only natural for her to seek a solution for them. It wasn’t enough to create a product that worked – it also needed to be a sensory experience worth repeating. She began personally blending oils and ingredients from her travels around the world to create natural/organic treatments for them...and they worked.

Since Solessence’s debut, the company has grown to not only pamper friends originally surprised with the products, but their friends, and their friends, and so on. Solessence is thrilled to be a part of the Billboard Awards, to be on shelves at Whole Foods Markets, and to be discovered by and invited to People Magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful issue for People en Espanol (Los Mas Bellos), the Emmy Awards and the SAG Awards. Most recently the company was featured on TV Guide Network’s ‘The Fashion Team’ show after a Senior Vice President called to say she was a ‘big fan’ of the product and wanted to help provide more exposure.

Although the application for the company trademark was applied for in 2000, it wasn’t granted until late 2005. During the (long) wait, a website was established and Hillary began marketing. Internet sales began to trickle in. Her first brick & mortar sale was made to a small health store for $200 after a casual conversation with the beauty buyer. Her second sale a few days later was to a larger health store chain, for $5000 – people were responding positively to the luxurious feel and upscale look of this natural & organic skin care line, to the point where they were emailing and asking for her formulations. Although there was a hesitancy to invest heavily if the trademark would not be granted, in 2004 Solessence made an appearance with only the soap collection, temporary scrub labels and unmarked lotion bottles at a New York trade show. It was important to find out if there was a substantial interest in this market to even pursue. It was at this event that two pivotal things happened:

1. The Vice-President of a well known body care company raved about how nice the scrubs were and asked if we would private label for them – to the tune of 70,000 jars a month
2. Whole Foods Market sought out the booth after seeing the soap in the ‘Best of Show’ display area (“That is the best soap I have ever seen!”} and picked up the line.

Every so often, a brand comes along a publicist’s portfolio that changes their perspective on their personal beauty regime. I have been fairly loyal to my body/skincare products for many years --- with sensitive, a tad dry, and allergy-prone skin, I am always a little big apprehensive to try new products. Then came Pañpuri.

I had the beautiful box of the Organic Cream Wash Bar in Thai Jasmine sitting in my bathroom --- it smelled wonderfully even from inside, and was a lovely addition to the decor. Knowing that the ingredients were not only all natural, but also certified organic, gave me the courage to open up the hand-wrapped bar. Wow. I am so used to synthetic jasmine, that the essential oils used in the bar are overwhelmingly relaxing. My whole bathroom smells like a spa, and I start to use the creamy lather. Not only is my skin not itching me, but I don’t have that tight skin feeling from soap.

Continue reading on our Beauty Pro blog.

Karen Betts is internationally renowned for quality and standards in permanent cosmetics, founded the Nouveau Contour Training Academy in the UK and has appeared regularly on television shows across the pond such as 10 Years Younger, Extreme Makeover UK and Big Brother to name a few. She is the permanent cosmetics consultant for both the BBC and Sky TV as well as being the practitioner of choice for a host of celebrities. Karen is a visionary with amazing talent and is an influential contributor to the beauty industry.

Shannon: Can you explain permanent cosmetics to our readers?

Karen Betts: It's an advanced form of tattooing but uses different equipment and special pigments. Officially, it's permanent but the colors will fade so we recommend retouches after 18 months to 2 years. Longevity depends on many factors like skin type and exposure to UV rays.

Shannon: What prompted you to go into this field?

Karen Betts: I had a tattooist working for me and was impressed by his work and I also had a hair salon and did hairpieces for clients with Alopecia so figured this was a way I could help them whilst persuing a new career.

Shannon: Many of the enhancements you offer seem to be geared more towards those with medical issues than those who do it strictly for vanity purposes, was this a conscious decision?

Karen Betts: It's the way the industry has developed really. Eyebrows are by far the most common treatment and my clients have a lack of brows for various reasons, from over plucking in the seventies, having Alopecia or hair loss as a result of chemotherapy for instance. Medical enhancements such as nipple and areola treatments are amazing as they change the lives of people who have been through suffering and anguish.

That emerging market for beauty that you are looking for isn't necessarily found here in the U.S., but across the globe in Korea. While the beauty market is still holding ground here despite the economy, there are still fears of a recession and has American beauty retailers looking to foreign soil to plant their roots and grow. Korea's beauty industry is booming and we're all beginning to notice.

Korea is the home of many popular brands that are sold here in the U.S.; POINT, Charmzone, Enprani and Amore Pacific. Beauty is a longstanding tradition in Korea and something that is ingrained in girls since they are young. It's part of the culture, the tradition and has less to do with vanity (as it does in the states) as it is a way of life. So when I heard that one of my favorite beauty brands, Berwick Beauty, was launching their brand in Korea, I had to find out why.

Read the complete post on our Beauty PR blog Beauty Pro. 

As I watched the news this morning about Lehman Brother's filing bankruptcy, Merrill Lynch being bought, gas prices rising and devastation costs due to Hurricane Ike and our stock market looking like it's about to hit the toilet--reading a story in Cosmetics Design Europe about India's upmarket growth in the beauty industry was a welcomed positive story. With so many foreign investors coming in and taking advantage of our down economy, why not turn the tables here and take advantage of the emerging trends overseas that can be a benefit to us here in the states?

Pierce Mattie PR loves the beauty industry and actually, if you are familiar with Pierce's bio, this is where our firm got its start in Beauty PR. So keeping up to date on emerging trends and forecasting future trends is something Pierce Mattie is well known for. In fact, at the beginning of August, Pierce was interviewed by Cosmetique News in Paris regarding Pakistan being an emerging market for men's grooming products. So I wasn't at all surprised when I read the story mentioned above from Cosmetics Design Europe reporting on India's upmarket growth potential in the personal care industry.

So how can beauty brands in the states take advantage of this potential?

Who said the metrosexual trend was dead? While the word metrosexual may be a tired and worn out term, the evolution of men using cosmetics and skin care more openly definitely is not going unnoticed by many of the leading beauty brands. Over the weekend, YSL re-launched their widely popular Touche Eclat and set their eyes squarely focused on our male counterparts. Touche Eclat, typically a cosmetic staple for women, will be fragrance-free, available in only one shade and designed for all skin types. Selfridges & Co., in the UK, will be the exclusive retailer for the product. We guarantee it will become a best seller (and rather quickly!)

Men utilizing makeup as a skin enhancer is catching on and beauty brands are cashing in. It'll only be a matter of time before the man in your life has a makeup bag of his own. And why not? Diminishing those dark circles under his eyes, hiding the crow's feet and concealing blemishes shouldn't be a beauty secret only women can keep in their arsenal.

What your viewpoint? Trend or something that will continue to catch on?

*Photo Credit: Selfridges & Co; Pictured: Stuart Pilkington of Big Brother 9

Here we are again, last week we critiqued Biden and Palin and this week it’s Obama and McCain. Remember this is Pierce Mattie after all. We don’t talk politics; we talk fashion, grooming and lifestyle choices. Though they reference Reagan, JFK and Roosevelt, let’s remember – they are none of the above. Are you ready to examine?

Being a Beauty PR firm means that when you are watching the debates and the elections news, you are not only focused on what the commentators and candidates are necessarily saying, but often find yourself wondering who the person is behind their makeup. This is something Pierce Mattie picked up on when he compared Palin and Biden then McCain and Obama over the last two debates. I know I certainly wondered how the candidates were able to maintain such a matte look to their skin when under so much pressure, what about you?

Michele Probst working with Chris Matthews before the Presidential Debate at Oxford.

Michele Probst, CEO of Menaji Skincare, is one of those makeup artists working skillfully behind the scenes to make the on-air personalities look flawless and the politicians look trustworthy. Her artistry can be seen on the faces of Chris Matthews, Andrea Mitchell, Al Gore, Tom Brokaw, Howard Dean, Katie Couric and Barack Obama. Being the seasoned professional that she is, I decided to ask her if she could reveal her tips to making these hard working folks look so good on camera and even tell us the products that work so well.

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.

Is it just me or was the last payment at the cosmetic surgeon’s office for your botox injection more painful than the needle itself? As the manufacturers of Reloxin went to the FDA this week to seek final US approval (but was delayed), one wonders just how much more affordable this Euro-type of botulinum toxin will be. Experts are projecting it to be about 15% less than Allergen's Botox Cosmetic. Most of us in Manhattan pay around $650.00 (give or take a few) for a full face. That would provide us with a savings of around $97.00 with estimates in time projected to be a 3rd of the market share. With the economy the way it is, I wonder if consumers will opt for the new Botox rival due to the affordability or simply remain loyal to Botox.

So what are your thoughts on this new injectable, will you be making your appointment this summer to flatten your furrows? Let me know your thoughts.

Located on Main Street in Concord, Massachusetts, Cynthia Cosmetics & More recently opened its doors to "Bring out your inner Goddess..." I recently took the opportunity to interview Cyndi King to learn more about her and her beauty company:

Pierce Mattie: Tell us more about Cynthia Cosmetics & More.

Cyndi King: We offer authentic mineral makeup, chirally correct skin care and the art of Joan Terrell Smith in the historic Grist Mill of Concord MA. Refill, reuse, recycle is at the heart of the makeup studio philosophy located above Main Streets Market & Café tucked in with Nesting and The Muse’s Window at the top of the stairs. Cynthia Cosmetics & More offers 10% off your purchase when presented with old conventional, traditional makeup or skin care products for recycling. All of our product packaging is recyclable and many are made with the ability to re-fill and re-use the bottle, brush or container that contains the product. Proceeds from the sale of the Revitalash lash conditioner and the Clarisonic professional skin care brush system go to cancer research.

Pierce Mattie: Concord Massachusetts is known for its great literature that comes from that town. It is the biggest little place in America. Are you going to plan anything like; A Book & a Makeover? Or having any book readings at your store while consumers talk shop on lip gloss and sunscreen?

Cyndi King: Absolutely! Our local book store is independently owned; most of the historic Concord shopping district is inhabited by independent businesses. My greatest wish is that when Diane Ranger releases her biography that she does so here in Concord at Cynthia Cosmetics & More! I plan to offer a reading area focused on wellness, skin care and cosmetics education. I feature the art work of Joan Terrell Smith, a locally born, award winning artist, now living in France. More of her work will be on display during the Art Walk in Concord on Saturday, May 16th, 2009. www.joanterrellsmith.com

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.

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.

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.  

Physicians who practice the art of the faux injection are in for a rude awakening. And you know who you are! I can’t tell you how many times I hear that people today are having injections done and they don’t see any results or weakening of the facial muscles, if it’s a scam report it to the America Society of Plastic Surgeons. Take for example The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany this week who was convicted of these charges. I can’t think of a faster way to damage a thriving practice then having to spend a year in prison for going “el cheapo” on the wrinkle busting juice.

I would love to be a fly on the wall when the cosmetic surgeon is in his jail unit turns to his cellmate: “Big Daddy” and Big Daddy says; “Yo Doc - what are you in jail for?” And the doctor turns to him and says; “selling fake Botox!” Oh the torture they are going to receive in the jailhouse cafeteria.

If you are in a crunch this summer and need some tips on ways to save money with your anti-aging listen up:

#1 Buy large bottles of cleaners and lotions

#2 Skip the facial scrub and use a wash cloth

#3 Wear less makeup during the day

#4 Don’t be afraid to buy products at the drugstore, especially anti-aging performance products

#5 Wear an SPF 15 to 30 - the more you prevent the UV damage and the collagen breakdown process the less Botox you will need in the future

#6 Realize that the expensive lipstick/gloss, though fabulous will not change your life, get you married or help you land that perfect job - try to stick to under $10.00 for all lip items.

#7 If you are going to get Botox ask your doctor for an incentive value to use their services such as discounted medi-spa treatments or product samples, but avoid hunting for record breaking low prices for injectables.

#8 Do not get your cosmetics procedures done in third world countries. I could tell you horror stories for days on what I have seen come from “those” places, you pay for what you get. And yes its very tempting but don’t do it.

#9 If you can’t give up Botox, and I am not asking you to - try and stretch it out a bit, go a month longer without the injection before making your appointment.

#10 Remember it’s the insides that count too! Work on your heart and soul (which is free!) just as you would your face and body. A healthy mind is actually the best state for anti-aging in the future.

Can you really brand an adjective?

A competing PR firm recently launched a website similar to my own and chose to title their publicists "Brand Advocates." We have been doing that for close to a decade and to this day I know of no other PR firm, until now, that has done so. I know I can’t pursue this PR firm legally, as these are common words, but I will just take it as a compliment and hope that their haute trending will become more original in the future.

That is why this week when I read about Nude Skincare trying to lay claim of the term "Nude," my eyes began to roll. Can a marketer really own the term “nude?” Bryan Meehan from Greenmont Capital, who co-founded Nude Skincare with Ali Hewson, seems to think so. They are moving forward with the lawsuit against Stella McCartney for her upcoming fragrance which she has named Nude. They are claiming stake in the branding of the word nude. Now I ask you, can you own a simple adjective as such? What do you think Pierre-Auguste Renoir would think with his 1910 painting entitled; Nude? Or Bill Blass and his 1990 fragrance also entitled Nude. Bill and Pierre might not be around today to stake legal claim in these commonly used vocabulary terms, but I ask you – should cosmetic companies who have overly aggressive legal council go on a vengeance against such simple terminology?

In 1988 I picked up a bottle at the Dior counter of Fahrenheit and was addicted at first whiff. It’s one of those scents that you either love or hate, no in between. Christian Dior fragrances are doing it right this year with their public relations and cosmetic marketing as they continue to reinforce their classic fragrances.

Fahrenheit can’t be compromised and Maurice Roger’s creation back in the day makes it a true staple in any man’s wardrobe for cologne. Fast-forward 21 years later to the present and Dior has created Absolute Fahrenheit to reach the new customer but also appeal to gents like me who have such fond memories. Its notes include Violet, Myrrh, Oud and Incense. 

The results are in! The team at Pierce Mattie Public Relations has compiled their annual "What’s Hot, What’s Not" list for 2010 pertaining to all things beauty, fashion, lifestyle and media. What’s in? The stiletto heel, Jeggings, Minx Nails, diesel fuel and the use of condoms have made a major come back over the pill. And what’s out? Skinny jeans, Starbucks, Hybrid Technology and Zoloft just to name a few.

What’s IN:

Fashion –

Annabel Tollman
UNIQLO
Velcro
Navaho Prints
Stiletto Heels
Tie Clips
The Boyfriend Jacket
Jeggings

Beauty –

Blushing Nails
Bouncy hair that is air dried
neuLash & Latisse
Fresh Cut Cedarwood
Injectables
Goth inspired makeup
Violet/Carnation Scents
Minx Nails
Invisalign
Push-up Bra

Accessories –

House of Harlow
Metal Statement Necklaces
Bib necklaces
Alexander Wang handbags

Lifestyle -

How To and DIY stories
Blog stories
Brewing your own coffee
Berlin
Diesel Fuel
Condoms
Farm Weddings
Vampires
Pilates
Your real figure
Wine
Life Coach

Media -

Oxygen
Open source
Helpareporter.com
Real Housewives Washington DC
iRex
Wendy Williams
Glee
Megan Fox
Alexandra Wentworth (comedian)
David Baldacci (novelist)
Roberta Gellis (romance)
Taylor Lautner
Katie Cassidy

What’s OUT:

We recently hosted our green event designed to give insight w/ long lead glossy pitching on our client’s new releases for April 2010. Our editorial calendars illustrate that “green” will continue to stay “in” the mix for stories and editorial opportunities. Most of our brands at Pierce Mattie have either a platform of green; organic, reusable energy, sustainability or have launched a new component to their brand to fit the needs of these consumers.

Some of the media in attendance included; Real Simple, Parents, Self , American Baby, Today’s Black Woman, Blackbook, Time Out NY, Brides, Teen Vogue, Glamour, Town & Country, For the Bride, Prevention, Allure and Gotham Magazine.

Here is a peak on some of the brands the Pierce Mattie team pitched, if you are working on your stories for April 2010 and would like more detailed information on exactly what will be launched please email us.

We love to see a PR firm and client have a good laugh, especially in this new world where everyone seems to be taking everything too seriously. I always tell our team – we are pitching lipstick aren’t we, not strategizing for world peace! The coffee just about came out of my nose from laughing so hard this morning when I watched the video for AXE and read the latest pitch from Amy Nadler at Edelman w/ Heather Mitchell at Unilever.

For those of you PR pros who haven't yet seen the clip, take a look as it features Jaime Pressly playing a fictional tennis star, who is quoted in the release as saying; "I had a blast working with AXE on this video. The comedic undertones were hilarious and there were definitely a few laugh-out-loud moments on set, where I thought to myself …'only AXE.'"

To celebrate the launch of this new video and the updated Detailer, AXE held the AXECYB.com launch party, hosted by Khloe Kardashian Odom, at the Sky Lodge in Park City, UT during Sundance. Celebrities from film, television and music, including Malin Akerman, Adrien Brody, Wilmer Valderrama and Stephanie Pratt came out to the hottest party at Sundance to screen the AXE “Cleans Your Balls” video and enjoyed special performances by DJ Steve Aoki and DJ MomJeans (a.k.a. Danny Masterson).

Love & Toast is the latest addition to Margot Elena Wells’ bath and body products. This multi-talented beauty entrepreneur is the mastermind behind cult beauty brands: Lollia (bath and beauty products in ultra feminine packaging) and Tokyomilk (whimsical products with illustrations of skulls, sparrows and Marie Antoinette.)

And now, Wells has launched Love & Toast, an all natural ingredients line of hand creams, lip balms and eau de parfums products. With this new line, Love & Toast products are adorned with these truly playful designs of bright colors, simple iconography and a nod to the 80’s. These designs closely resemble Swedish cartoon illustrations. Wells describes the conceptual design of Love & Toast as being loosely based off of her interpretation of “British Pop Folk Art” lending itself to create these aesthetically pleasing effects of bright, spontaneous, whimsical, and a very “now” look.

Prestige Beauty PR: They say that women buy lipstick even in a recession. However, with this particular recession, even the beauty industry felt the economic pinch. Lipstick really did become a "luxury" item and not a necessary psychological pick-me-up that we so often see when times get tough, but are we beginning to see signs of things changing? Hopefully Estee Lauder's recent sales and profit forecast will be reflective of greater things to come across the industry.

The report shows a year of positive profits for Estee Lauder, with most of it coming from Asia (40%). We blogged 2 years ago that Asia will soon be the global leader for personal care growth. It's definitely been interesting to watch that unfold and hear reports of US brands flourishing outside our borders. Will this be the saving grace for beauty powerhouse brands while the US economy gets back on its feet?

InStyle, Lucky, More, Natural Health, Family Circle, Woodbury & Whole Living editors feature Pierce Mattie PR's client Dr. Hauschka for April 2011. If you’re working on a holistic skin care color story for spring be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

One of my favorite things to do when I'm home is pamper myself with a nice face mask. I don't know what it is about having my skin tingle for 10 minutes, nonetheless it relaxes me and it's something I look forward to. At times I find it hard to find a product that works well with my skin type without so many harsh chemicals...until now.

Herbal expert, Elaine Stavert, has two amazing books that contain a never ending list of natural beauty masks and scrubs that can be made right at home. “Beauty Masks & Scrubs” and “Beauty Oils and Butters” both contain over 30 different possible masks created from great scents, herbs and essential oils. You can also incorporate some of these oils and other natural elements and create some amazing foot and facial oils that will soothe your every ache and pain.

Stavert formed a company, Littlecote Soap Co, when she moved to a quiet farm in the country in England. Since then she has been creating and mixing amazing natural elements to formulate some great products. This is the perfect book for anyone who loves to maintain healthy skin without some of the harsh chemicals that many beauty products contain. Go head and get your copy now and pamper yourself the au naturel way.

Dr.Hauschka Skin Care is one of only twelve natural beauty brands to receive the highest rating, a 10, on Kline & Company Inc.'s natural scale.  The scale appears in their recently published report, "Natural Personal Care 2010: Global Market Analysis and Competitive Brand Assessment(1)."  

"Dr.Hauschka Skin Care has been 100% natural for over 40 years and we are proud, yet not surprised, that the brand received the highest possible rating on Kline & Company Inc.'s natural scale," said Mirran Raphaely, CEO Dr.Hauschka Skin Care, Inc.

The complete list of brands to achieve a rating of 10 in the 2010 edition, based on their ingredients:

• 100% Pure
• Ayush
• Burt's Bees
• Dr.Hauschka Skin Care
• Forest Essentials
• Green People
• Intelligent Nutrients
• Juice Organics
• Lafe's
• Primavera
• Reserva Folio
• Weleda

A phrase that was driven into my head as a young girl was, "You can't get by on looks alone." Occasionally I also heard, "You can't get ahead on your looks alone." Similar focus, just semantics really. I'm sure it's the same sentiment echoed in homes across America at one point or another and in a time when we're consistently re-enforcing substance versus image, it's very interesting that two similar books (backed by research) have come out supporting the theory that, yes, you can advance in your career, become more profitable and more successful based on looks alone.

Beauty Pays by Daniel S. Hamermesh and Erotic Capital by Catherine Hakim both explore how our society views beauty and attractiveness from a socio-economic standpoint. Hamermesh, an economics professor at the University of Texas, explores whether a universal standard for beauty exists and how it differentiates based on profession. Hamermesh also examines the commodification of dating and how physical appearance in a potential partner influences more than just the search for an attractive mate, but is based on their ability to generate higher earnings. Catherine Hakim's book, Erotic Capital, exposes that truth that sex appeal is an effective tool when looking to advance everything from your career to advertising (that part, we knew.)

Thought provoking and controversial, this topic is one that we all talk about, but has been taboo to actually admit the obvious--looks matter. Just the other week we blogged about Paul Kramer's new book Maggie Goes on a Diet, which, in a nutshell, says if you are obese you will be bullied and unhappy, but if you are thin you are liked and adored. While it's something I don't think we should be telling 6 year olds (his target demographic), he is only re-iterating what Beauty Pays and Erotic Capital are already stating: attractive is all the rage.

Be ready for your next beauty and fashion PR pitches--Wear this commanding suit if you want that raise! and Use this moisturizer and you'll successfully negotiate your next big corporate deal!

What do you think? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Whole Living Magazine featured TWO Pierce Mattie PR's clients Dr. Hauschka & Comfort Zone. If you’re working on a skin care story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty and wellness PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Whole Living Magazine featured TWO Pierce Mattie PR's clients Dr. Hauschka & Comfort Zone. If you’re working on a skin care story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty and wellness PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Whole Living Magazine featured TWO Pierce Mattie PR's clients Dr. Hauschka & Comfort Zone. If you’re working on a skin care story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty and wellness PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Pierce Mattie PR Client John Masters Organics was featured in Prevention Magazine. If you’re working on a beauty story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Pierce Mattie PR Client John Masters Organics was featured in Prevention Magazine. If you’re working on a beauty story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.