e.l.f SALE!!

50% OFF Fenix Cosmetics and Beauty Products at The Fairest!

Fenix is an innovative company dedicated to revolutionizing the skincare industry by developing the highest quality and most effective skincare line available. Fenix is led by its founder, Bill Bakho, and a team of chemists who have searched the world over to find the unique ingredients that make Fenix what it is today, “ A Foundation For Great Skin. ”

Bobbi Brown Rich and Luscious Color Gloss

I am in Love with Bobbi Brown's line of make-up and skincare (and in the summer I will most likely be blogging about their fabulous Beach Collection) but they have a new set of glosses hitting the shelves! These glosses are rich in color and perfect for the fall! I tried them and fell in love with the Nude and the Pink Buff. Bobbi Brown gloss scents used to be in a vanilla scent now it smells minty not a big fan of the mint scent. Also the sponge applicator really isn't doing it for me; but the gorgeous color makes up for all of that! The colors are long lasting and moisturizing! LOVES IT!

Available in the following shades:
Naked
Ruby Red
Pink Raspberry
Merlot
Dusty Rose
Melon
Tutu
Pink Buff

New Chanel Jade Polishes! For a Limited Time ONLY!

I have to admit, I love the rich shades of Chanel’s nail polishes. Now Chanel has introduced their Jade Nail Collection. Two more shades for me to go Goo-Goo GaGa over. However, at first glance of the Jade color I was like green really I'll give it a whirl and you know what with a sexy black outfit and those striking Jade Nails...HOT! The Green starts out streaky but just paint on 2 coats and you are good to go! The Rose looks so un-expectantly flattering! Try one! You will be pleasantly surprised!

These limited edition shades are named Jade and Jade Rose (as pictured above) and they debuted on September 10th at the Chanel Soho boutique in New York during Vogue’s Fashion Night Out.

“For the nails, Karl wanted a green shade to evoke the jade notes of the collection. I worked with our laboratories to offer him a monochromatic palette of 10 green shades. We chose the color that most resembled the green tweed skirt suit from the collection,” explains Peter Philips.

You can find the Jade Nail collection for a limited time only at Chanel Makeup Studios and Chanel boutiques for $25.00.

Stila Holiday Lip Collection

Stila Holiday Lip Gloss Collection 8 Lip Glazes for only $25.00! Plus if you order now you get a free smudge pot! Perfect time to order! 

TJ Maxx Fabulous Finds

You guys all know how I love to find a deal thus TJ Maxx is my favorite place to hunt down  name brand beauty products and today I hit the jackpot!

The brands I found today at your local TJ Maxx:

Burt Bees Radiant Gift Set: With Radiant body scrub,lotion, lip moisturizing balm and night creme all for $9.99! What a steal!

Philosophy: Hair Shampoo, Shower Gel, Bubble Bath usually $16.00 seen at TJ Maxx for $7.99!

Keratase: Anyone who has tried this product know it ranges from $100-$31. I saw the wonderful Hair Masque for only $20.00! Can you believe it! I couldn't and promptly placed it in my cart, while looking around to make sure no-one would swoop in and steal it from me.

Ken Paves: Jessica Simpson's hair stylist, TJ Maxx had the shampoo, conditioner and deep conditioning hair serum.

Barielle: Nail Polish and nail care products. They have some rich shades for fall. TJ Maxx had some of their rich colors as Well as their nail care serum, and strengthening polish!

Essie: Nail Polish for $3.99 and Nail Care Polishes!

Origins: Body Butters for $12.99! A set of 3 fabulous scents!

Urban Decay: Body Bronzers and tanners for, get this...$3.99!!!!!! Crazy!

Korres: Was too happy they had more of this. I stocked up! $5.99-$7.99

Peter Coppola: Travel Sized hair shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Spray and Serum! For $9.99


Found a Steal at your local TJ Maxx?? Comment and Let us know! 

Bombshell on A Budget: Top Tips for Beauty on a Budget

After I posted some great STEALS from TJ MAXX in my previous blog I decided to stick with the theme for today and share 5 tips for a gal on a budget.

1. USE SPARINGLY: Waste not want not is what my mom used to always say!  This is not a time to waste product and most of the time a little goes a long way. For instance wash you face first then use your eye make-up remover, you will need to use less, perhaps even using a que-tip size,  if you wash first.

2. CHOOSE MULTITASKING TOOLS: For instance some Cream blushes can also be used as lip-stick. A black shadow could be used as a black liner. Brown shadow can be used as a liner and be used to fill in your brows; 3 products in one! For instance my favorite Stila Convertibles! This versatile favorite of mines brightens cheeks and lips with creamy, translucent color. Tap onto cheeks and press onto lips. The sheer tint adds an inherent glow to the cheeks while lips bloom with fresh, radiant color.  A must-have in every Stila girl's purse as it's a quick fix to brighten any face, my favorite colors are Fuchsia and Petunia.

3.  GO MASS MERCHANDISE: Drug Store make-up and skin-care products can be used and are just as good most of the time; plus you can get coupons for most big names like Covergirl, Revlon & even Burt Bees!

4. DIY: My absolute favorite exfoliant is taking 1/2 c. of sugar and mixing it with olive oil, then rub on your skin! The Olive Oil hydrates while the sugar works as a exfoliating tool to remove dead skin in a non-abrasive way. Try this at home!!!

5. STAY SAFE: Always always always use a SPF don't skimp here. Instead try a tinted moisturizer like Stila, mentioned on our STEAL vs. SPLURGE Blog, it's a moisturizer, provides coverage and protects skin all in one! It's almost like a multitasking tool as well!

Got a Tip for Beauty on a Budget Post it here!

Avon and MaryKay: The Reinventing Geniuses!

Remember the days of AVON Calling? Or seeing numerous little ladies carrying those pink cases in the hope of driving that Pink Cadillac, or wondering who the hell is MARK? Although the core of their brand remains the same these companies have had a complete Make-over. With the introduction of Mark, improving formulations, and using the latest in skin-care techniques, Avon even has a Acne treatment system, attending those AVON and Marykay parties won't be so bad afterall.

So I know you have been invited to a few and have been dreading going...DON'T. I will give you a few pointers on what to buy that will make you happy as well as your hostess!

AVON Calling: 

1. While I don't not think there will be an over-the-counter solution to Stretch Marks this comes pretty close and makes a perfect gift for your pregnant friends; Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark smother.  The formulation uses a "TriLaser Technology" which really visibly reduces the appearance of stretch marks but even better helps prevent New ones from forming (thank goodness). The TriLaser Technology is designed to not only boost elastin in the skin but to stimulate collagen; while using, and you know this is my favorite part, Glycolic acid to smooth the surface of skin and even the tone and color of existing stretch marks. I have been using it for about 2 months and I have seen improvements in the deepness and visibility of my stretch marks. I was surprised looking forward to next summer! LOVES IT!

2. Avon's Pro-To-Go Lipstick: This product is only $5.99 at most parties and worth the buy. I love cute inventive packaging and this is one for the record books. The design lets you open, and apply and close the lipstick all with one HAND! While would never promote putting on make-up while you are driving lets be honest we all do, and this will make it easier.  Slide the button and the package opens and the lipstick appears! Apply this colorful moisturizing balm, you have no cap to remove or drop. Slide it open. Put it on. Slide it shut. Done! They come in 14 beautiful shades, I like Sweet Brown and Warm Pink.  "It is the lipstick that lets you take on the world single-handedly!" LOVES IT!  


3. I am always looking for something to replace Microdermabrasions especially now and here is another option. Avon's Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion System.  It uses the same aluminum oxide crystals used in an in-spa Microderm treatment. It's a four-level at home system, it treats dullness, enlarged pores and discoloration. Starting with Level 1, use 2–3 times a week for 2 weeks before proceeding to the next level. After completing all 4 levels (8 weeks) stop using for 2 to 3 weeks and then start over at Level 1. It's pretty serious skin-care results at Level 2 I really noticed a huge difference in the texture of my skin it was glowing.  LOVES IT! 

4.  I love Avon's Mark Line it's hip, now and the products can be seen all over the red carpet! Right now I am in love with their For goodness face Antioxidant Skin Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30. It is my day moisturizer. This formula is light-weight so your face won't feel heavy and it's oil-free. Not to mention it protects against the sun! It softens uneven skin texture and helps prevent the onset of wrinkles (never to early to start preventing), leaving skin smooth and protected. This formula is also quite yummy! "Rich in natural antioxidants and essential plant extracts of “superfruit” blueberries, “superfood” dark chocolate and Canadian willow herb, along with an anti-ozone complex to nourish, protect and comfort skin." Yummy chocolate LOVES IT! 

5. I love the Cute names for Mark products so hip so now especially these Gems of a find! Mini Mark It Hook Up Stick for lips. These were seen on the Red Carpet for the Emmys on almost every starlet. These are too good too be true!  It's a gloss in an easy-to-use lip pencil no kidding! It glides on for an easy application and provides sheer color pigment. Available in six gorgeous shades, my favorite is the Plummy Pearl! If you like these try the Mark It Up Sticks for Eyes too! You won't be disappointed it! LOVES IT! 


MaryKay:

1. MaryKay Mineral Eye Color: I must be honest and admit that I have never been a real fan of MaryKay I always found their products oily and behind the times; however my perception of them changed as they have really transformed and reformulated products! One thing I loved right away was the Mineral Eye Color, Yes Mary has mineral make-up too and her line is pretty doggone great! The Mineral Eye make-up is a long-lasting mineral-based eye color, providing fade- and crease-resistant coverage when you need it most. Mineral Eye Color is truly a multitasking makeup, available in 28 vibrant matte and shimmery pearl shades to complement all skin tones. This product blends effortlessly for quick transition from subtle to sultry looks. The inclusion of Vitamins A, C and E helps protect against wrinkle-causing free radicals. LOVES IT! 

2.   A friend of mines who sells Mary saw my write up on BareMinerals and immediately sent me the MaryKay's Mineral Powder Foundation. Well no need to hold your breath girly I Likey! The consistency is lightweight and buildable, Just like BareMinerals, allowing you to determine your own preferred coverage level and desired color impact. Mineral Powder Foundation controls shine and instantly conceals minor skin imperfections, helping to create a glamorous finish. The only thing I wish is that they came in a wider variety of colors. However, if you find your fit Lucky You! 


Tried any other these products! Lets us know! Comment! 

NEW: MAC Black Collection

Okay so perhaps those goth gals in high school really knew what was up! If you haven't been to MAC yet HURRY they are releasing some fierce stuff Like this Black Collection! Returning to the scene with this eccentric collection is the Volcanic Ash Exfoliator which is beyond Fabulous!! This collection is so Rihanna to me, it's edgy, sexy and perfect for fall. Don't worry everything in this collection isn't black but it's black based. Take a risk and get one piece of the collection even if it's just the Volcanic Ash exfoliator we won't think any less of you! Check it out!

Cremesheen Lipstick in Black Knight – creamy true black

Mattene Lipstick in Midnight Media – dense matte black

Mattene Lipstick in Night Violet – deep purple grape

I actually think the Night violet would look really sexy and strong with a smokey eye!

Sexy Glimmerglass Glosses in: Bling Black – sheer black with gold shimmer; Blackware – creamy true black; Blackfire – sheer black with pinky purply shine. I like the Blackfire especially on top of The Night violet or even on top of the Black Knight! Great combination!

  

I know you have used their MINERALIZE EYESHADOW which is like having 4 eyeshadows in one, in the Black collection they come in shades of: Blue Flame – Mineralize black with blue shimmer; Cinderfella – Mineralize black with silver pearl specks; Gilt By Association (I like this name) – Mineralize black with goldish bronzy pearl; Young Punk – Mineralize black with a pinky purply pearl

Also included are perfectly matching eye-liners for that intense look:

Greasepaint Stick in Intense Black; Eye Kohl in Smolder – Intense black; Penultimate Eye Liner in Rapidblack – true black

The Nail colors are my absolute Favorites! They are super sexy! The NAIL LACQUERs come in Seriously Hip – black with gold particles (I really like this one on); Nocturnelle – black as night black; Baby Goth Girl – black with pinky purply specks. The Baby Goth Girl is really sweet looking on the nails! I think Minx and MAC should collaborate i think if they do those Minx nails would be to die for!

I love cream shadows but also I am a BIG fan of cream blushes! They really give you that natural touch on the apple of your cheek. These two colors are very rich and sexy; and the Black Bat which is a deep burgundy with pinky shimmer can be used even in the day. Just apply a bit less. They also have Black: which is exactly what it's name says a creamy TRUE black.

Drumroll please my favorite! The Volcanic Ash Exfoliator and Masque. The exfoliator is dual-purpose foaming, cleansing and exfoliating scrub which blends "Natural Volcanic Ash with fine sugar crystals." Can you believe it! It refines and unclogs the skin, adds instant moisture: leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. Use on the face or body! The Masque is super cool, if you haven't tried this before you are in for a treat! The ash-black facial mask simultaneously deep-cleanses and treats the skin. When water is added, the mask heats up and the oils instantly lubricate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and clean. It helps keep skin moist, clean, soft, and evenly-textured. You better stock up, last year I was sorry I didn't becasue these are Limited edition, and may not be around for long!

What do you think of this collection? Would you try it? Are you into the whole black theme? Comment LET us know! 

Steal Vs. Splurge: All About LIPS!

This is my favorite one yet! If you are a product collecting Queen like me you know you can never have too many lip gloss pots and tubes in every bag and a makeup drawer full of these skittle looking containers.  I love them and trying them. Here are some great colors for the upcoming season and some old time favorites that will never die.

Steal: LIPS

1. I know you have seen these Maybelline New York Color sensational Lip color, I know you have, and you probably wondered if I should get them...the answer YES!!!  They have the most perfect and richest colors for fall. I wanted to do the whole nude with the intense eyes, you may see Kim Kardashian rocking it allot, and they have a laundry list of rich nudes to choose from. I like the Autumn Rush and Copper Charm as well as the Get Nutty.  Don't stop at the nudes, they have 48 rich bold shades ranging from Pinks, Plums, Nudes and if you are looking for a hot red lip this fall they have lots of luscious REDs! The lipsticks also have a creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar which those geniuses at Maybelline have incorporated in the formula. They also have matching liners and glosses. For longer lasting lips apply the lipstick liner first thicker in the corners, fill in with the lipstick, then top it off with a gloss for sexy lips! LOVES IT!

2. Okay you know how that "I just had a red popsicle and my lips look naturally stained" look that is in right now. You can achieve that look with  Covergirl Outlast Lip Stain. These are way different from lipstick they are a lightweight flush of color that won't come off, seriously they will NOT! They last for hours without the heavy look or feel of an ordinary lipstick. They are like chubby markers making them easy to use and easy to define your lips-just draw on color. Perk up the color for a sexy night out by adding a clear or color coordinated gloss on top! My Favorite colors are Sassy Mauve, Wild Berry Wink, and Plum Pout (LOL I like that name). LOVES IT!

3. Nivea A Kiss of Shine Red Glossy Lip Care: Some of the best things are indeed the simplest! Nivea products are known for the care and nurturing of the skin. They have taken that same concept into consideration in this gloss, just added a little bit of color! This is the tube you want in your purse to use alone or on top of your favorite lipstick to give it a little bit of a punch! The red is very subtle and I think looks gorgeous on all skin tones! This gloss really takes care of your lips too it contains natural ingredients: Shea Butter and Vitamin E. And trust me this gloss is not sticky! "NIVEA Lip Care – Kiss and Be Kissed" I Love that slogan! LOVES IT!

Splurge: LIPS

This list maybe a bit long but who cares lets have some fun!

1.  Benefit Cosmetics, Posietint Poppy-Pink Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain:  I love this line of products they are fun, innovative and multi-functional! I bought the Benetint and Benetint lip balm when they came out like years ago (10 years ago) and I loved them ever since! Now they have reinvented it with a pinky sheer-ish color. It's a liquid gel that can be used on your cheeks for a nice flushed look as well as your lips! Who wouldn't love that! "This ingenious liqui-gel formula blends easily onto lips and cheeks to give a perfect pop of long-lasting color to any complexion." How to use it you may ask? First SMILE then Brush three strokes on the apple of your cheek and blend quickly with fingertips. Do the same on your other cheek. Dot on lips & blend with fingertip. For a deeper "pop" of color, repeat. And then HELLOOOO Fabulous! Perfection! LOVES IT!

2. Are you looking for a lip balm that will provide intense hydration in a lush lemon scented tube! Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment with SPF is for you! The cutest lip balm ever and it comes in Natural and a Rose Tinted Balm.  I use the natural before I go to bed and I wake up with soft pouty lips! I use the Rose every-time my lips get dry during the day and under my lipstick. It also gives you that just-bitten flush look (I have been watching too much True Blood). SUGAR ROSÉ TINTED LIP TREATMENT SPF 15 and the orginal nourishes, softens, and protects the lips. Key Ingredients: are Sweet and tart blackcurrant oil which cushions the lips with plumping fatty acids; Antioxidant grapeseed polyphenols and vitamins A, C & E provides extra protection. Not to mention it provides essential year-round protection from damaging UV rays. This is honestly a must-have! LOVES IT!

3. Have you been to M.A.C Cosmetics lately?? I have! And guess what I found, new M.A.C. Cosmetics Dazzleglass! Talk about Dazzling!  I love them...had to stop myself from gathering up the whole collection. This Lip color dazzles with light and shine to bring an exciting dimensional pop to your lips. "Large particle pearls reflect and refract light to mimic the brilliance of quartz and opal crystal. Provides exceptional shine with a crystalline iridescence." Non-sticky, non-tacky, lightweight and moisturizing. Glides on. Wear alone, or layer over lipstick or with Lipglass for dramatic super shinny effect. It also smells so yummy with M·A·C vanilla aroma! MMMMM. LOVES IT! What are the colors about:

• Sublime Shine – light coral brown with gold pearl (FAV)
• Soft Dazzle – mid-tone peach pink with gold pearl (FAV)
• Perfectly Unordinary – bright yell ow pink with gold pearl
• My Favourite Pink – light blue pink with pearl
• Do It Up – bright blue pink with pearl
• Luscious Spark – light orange with gold pearl (FAV)
• Totally Fab – bright yellow red with pearl
• Creme Allure – bright yell ow plum with pearl
• Amorous – deep brown red with pearl

4.  YSL, Rouge Volupté Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15: This is definitely a treat for your lips, An object of every woman's desires (LOL I am not exaggerating), Rouge Volupté's luxurious outer packaging reveals a creamy lipstick that leaves your lips nourished, feeling smooth and soft, and looking glossy and irresistible. The case itself screams luxurious I had to have it! It's a elegant gold metallic case with a mirror on top. The lipstick is virtually weightless, a nutri-protective vegetal complex nourishes your lips, keeping them smooth, soft and comfortable. For something so lightweight it does stay put for hours, thanks to the glossy film that reflects the light and the colorshine complex that magnifies the color. Available in 18 shades my favorites are: Forbidden Burgundy, Sweet Honey (Nice nude looking lip topped with a matching gloss) and Provocative Pink (My real favorite especially when going out topped with a high shine gloss). And with the Allure and CEW stamp of approval you cannot go wrong! LOVES IT!

WAX ON, WAX OFF!

I absolutely love getting waxed, yes it hurts sometimes, yes it's a bit uncomfortable but it is easy, your hair grows back slower and finer; and waxing your bikini area is a absolute MUST!! To avoid unsightly razor bumps yucky! In these tough economic times spending $45-$65 for a Brazilian or Bikini wax just won't cut it. So my summer mission was to try many hair removal methods to find the quickest and easiest way to remove hair...down there! 

So first up I tried Sally Hansen Extra Strength Brazilian Bikini Waxing & Shaping Kit and while it did work...I worked too hard!! I mean you had to melt the wax then slide it on then take a strip then pull it off. No wonder they charge those prices it was way too involved and MESSY! I had strings of wax everywhere! I won't say I HATES IT because is works, I guess, but I am NOT A FAN! I also tried the Lavender kit but had the same Messy results and I ran out of strips!  


I then decided to try Sally Hansen No Heat Wax strips. Easy. Simple Right...but the hair isn't budging. I mean a few hairs came off...not sure if there was enough wax on the strips or what but talk about un-necessary pain as I had to go over a few stops. And it left more wax down than it picked-up hair. I then needed a few weeks to recuperate. HATES IT!

Next I decided to try something I had to pay up for like Bliss Waxing Kit, and while it still involved heating and was not too easy it did work very well and left my skin feeling smooth and looking nice; but still not the quick and easy solution I was looking for. Not to mention it was $45 Bucks for that I could have went to the spa.


By now I felt defeated and as I started to pick up the phone to call my waxing specialist I decided to give it one more try. And then I. Found. IT!!! 


Parissa!!! Just looking at the strips I got excited they had much more wax on the strips than Sally's did. As I rubbed the wax in my hand I could feel it immediately become soft and pliable. I applied to the skin in the direction of the hair growth and with one quick movement all the hair was gone! Nothing left behind I though beginners luck and tried another strip same thing, I have hit the quick and easy wax removal jackpot! They are available for legs/body and face/bikini sizes and come with azulene oil to clean waxed areas, soothe irritated skin and slow hair growth. 

Honestly these strips are simply amazing they don't leave anything behind no hair, no wax, no nothing. So ladies we can have it all quick and easy hair removal, red velvet cheesecake and Chinese food at all times of the night! 


I did decide to keep the Bliss Kit as there are moments when I have the time to break that out; but if I only have a few minutes i.e. I am at the pool, beach or on a date and all I have are a few minutes to get rid of those errant hairs Parissa's Quick and Easy Wax Strips will be in my travel bag, beach bag, pool bag heck I will put two strips in a purse if need be! Anytime I travel they will be by my side! LOVES IT!! 

Steal Vs. Splurge: Eye Products

Our eyes...shadows, Mascaras, liners, Brows the things we do to achieve cat eyes, smokey eyes, natural nude eyes, electric looking eyes and the list goes on. What is out there to help us along our way.

Steal: Eye Products

1. e.l.f. Cosmetics, Mineral Eyeshadow: Have you been on this website yet??? If you haven't WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN? Make-up for a dollar! Mineral Make-up for $3-5.00 UNREAL! The Unreal part is that it is good make-up. I racked up on a Mineral Make-up introductory sale they had and I went a little shadow crazy! But you can never have too much eyeshadow right?? I figured since I went Bare Minerals I needed some shadows to go with it...so shoot me. I like these alot they contain vitamins A and B which helps to hydrate your skin. They have so MANY Colors you will go a bit crazy too! I have worn them both wet and dry and mixed and matched colors. They are 100% mineral based and contain no parabens, no preservatives and no chemicals...and at this price how can anyone say no. LOVES IT! 

2. Maybeline, Colossal Volum' Express Mascara: Okay who is still using the Pink Mascara bottle with the black top??? DISCARD time to trade up! For a mass-produced mascara this really pumps and volumps (I created a new word) your lashes.  It really delivers batting worthy lashes in a single coat. The wand has an oversized brush which really grabs hold to your lashes and a thickening formula made with collagen, yes collagen. There is also a fine wax in the formula which helps to prevent clumping, while the collagen and moisturizing jojoba oil provides a quick, generous effect on the lashes. "The result? Oversized, over-the-top lashes with nine times the volume" LOVES IT!

3. Revlon Illuminance Creme Shadow: I Love creamy shadows they are easier to work with and seems to last longer. I like this palette alot they come in not just nudes they offer quartets of silky colors which I blend together or wear alone for a gorgeous glow. At less than $5 you can buy them all and mix And match and shimmer all day! LOVES IT! 

Splurge: Eye Products

When it comes to Mascaras there are three I really like in the Splurge department so I will list them all as I cannot choose! 

1. Splurge Mascaras: Sephora Atomic Volume Mascara: The Name says it all! LOVES IT the wand is different as it has brushes, but they seemingly come out of the wand which makes them a cross between a brush and comb for added length and fullness.  If you are really an innovative girl you will try this Lancome  Oscillation Mascara. Talk about the lash revolution. This is the first vibrating power mascara; but don't be scared it's not scary type vibrations it's very subtle and quiet. The vibration allows you to get a 360 wrap on every lash. "With just the push of a button, lashes look extraordinarily extended, separated and multiplied." LOVES IT!  Last but not least is Lorac Visual Effects Mascara, sounds like it will really work right...DUH it does. This mascara has an innovative four-sided contoured brush. Looks a bit like a vase. The brush is also made of a flexible plastic with bristles that follow your natural lash line, making it easy to apply to those hard-to-reach lashes. The visual effect?? EYE OPENING stand at attention lashes!  LOVES IT! 

2. Nars Cream Eyeshadows: I told you guys I love cream shadows. These are ultra-pigmented shades that are very lightweight in texture, and transparent in application. I wear them alone or layered under NARS powder eyeshadow for long-lasting wear and double intensity. Oh and It's non-creasing! My favorites are Paper Tiger (I use it as a base alot or for everyday), Corfu (has just the right amount of shimmer in it for a popping eye perfect for layering or highlighting the brow bone), and Lili Marlene which is a dusky slate with zero shimmer perfect for layering or helping to create that Jennifer Gardener gray eye or a smokey eye! LOVES IT!! 

3. Benefit Instant Brow Pencil: Although  I love the Anastasia brow pen this is definitely a favorite of mines!!!  This is a great product for a natural looking brow. The pencil end beefs up sparse skimpy looking brows while the "spoolie" brush part tames those errant hairs. LOVES IT! 

(BJG Tip: Spray a little hairspray on your brow brush to keep wayward hairs in place trust me it works!)

Steal Vs. Splurge: Moisturizers

After we remove the dead skin we need to moisturize the new healthy skin!! So out with the old and replenish and boost up the new! (Tip: apply moisturizer to slightly wet skin, face or body, for better hydration) Moisturizing and finding the right one is a female curse and life-long journey! So here is some help to make the journey a little bit easier!

Steal, Moisturizer:

1. Burt Bees Inc.: Radiance Serum: I like serums I started using them about 2 years ago while doing consulting work with a Spa. To me they seem to absorb quicker and thus delivering faster results; and it teaches you to use less product!  I Like Burt Bees because it combines science with nature and is 100% natural; and in reference to this product they promise to "Bring out skin's natural radiance by next month" I took that as a personal challenge...I loss...Burt won! good for me though and you. This clinically tested serum combines royal jelly, licorice root extract and glycerin to bring out skin’s natural radiance. These ingredients increase moisturization by 15% in only 2 weeks, while nourishing skin with 134 nutrients including vitamins A, C, D and K, minerals and 17 amino acids. In 4 weeks, you’ll notice your skin becoming more even toned. The result is more radiant beautiful looking skin, naturally. What is "Royal Jelly" I did some research for you, "Royal Jelly is made of nectar, pollen, flower parts, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients. It is a very precious, mysterious substance that honeybees produce and feed to only select young bees, which in turn become mature and fertile queen bees. The queen bee lives 40 times longer than her worker bees." 

Dang who wants to be a queen bee now! I do, a Queen Bee with Radiant skin! How to use a serum: After cleansing your skin and patting it dry (no rubbing) take a small bit of serum and gently pat and smooth around mouth, eyes and forehead. ($9-13) LOVES IT!

2.  Neutrogena Visibly Even Daily Moisturizer SPF 30: I love products with the SPF so I don't need to apply extra sunscreen (which you need to be wearing on your face and body everyday even when there is no sun out) okay off my soap box!  I like this one not only because it protects my skin against UV rays (UVA you be aging; UVB you be burning) but it really does brighten your skin and evens out skin tone. It contains "Essential Soy" which is a natural skin brightener it helps to reduce discoloration and minimize dark spots.  And the SPF helps to continue to protect your skin from future dark spots. Visit Target,CVS, And Walgreens. ($10-13) LOVES IT!

3. Olay complete All Day Moisture Lotion SPF 15: This is perfect if you have Sensitive skin! It has a SPF but I would add mines too, it's a lightweight formula thus it absorbs quickly into the skin and protects against environmental damage with Vitamin E. What it doesn't do is irritate the skin with dyes, chemicals and fragrances. Kudos Olay for thinking of us sensitive skin gals! ($7-10)LOVES IT!

Splurge, Moisturizers:

If I do splurge on something this is probably the area I splurge on the most! A girl needs to have a good moisturizer especially with the cold days sneaking up on us. 

1. Grassroots Research Labs, Pomegranate Super Anti-oxidant Cream: I stumbled upon this brand a few years ago, while visiting Kohls.  They have a few other lines such as Vitamin C (Brightening with SPF 25) and Blue Algea Firming Cream. I tried the Pomegranate because I like the fruit (smiling) and because it contained "Goji Berry" (more research on my part) but it is used as an antioxidant and anti-irritant which is perfect for my skin (don't want to annoy it); and Pomegranate is also known for being an "intensive antioxidant power."  This advanced berry-derived hydrating cream works to help protect skin against free radicals that cause the skin to visibly age. The essential oil blend from these berries works to accelerate natural cell turnover, resulting in brighter, softer and more radiant skin. ($32.50)LOVES IT!

2. Kate Somerville, Oil-Free Moisturizer: Are you seeing a trend here I must love this brand LOL..I do and as I mentioned in another blog maybe 3 other blogs I love her moisturizer! Finally and oil-free moisturizer for sensitive and combination to oily skin. I normally have dry skin except some days and months my T-zone is working over time! And when I use Kate's moisturizer it sucks everything right back into place! I usually use this only at nights. As I said before this product line really delivers results and the moisturizer is no different it improves the firmness and elasticity in your skin. "It enhances skin smoothness and reduces fine surface lines, and helps to control and absorb sebum to guarantee oil-free skin. Its innovative, airless pump packaging releases the exact amount necessary, making this product unique." That is the BEST part the packaging no wasting expensive product this Kate has thought of everything! ($65.00) LOVES IT! 

3.  Stila, Sheer Color tinted Moisturizer SPF 30, Oil Free: I knew when I was going to blog about moisturizers I wanted to include at-least on tinted one and it was hard narrowing them down as I have tried plenty: Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown,Korres, Jane Iredale the list goes on and on. So why I decided on Stila well, it really is a great moisturizer that is light weight, oil-free and it placed in the 2009 CEW Beauty awards.  Second runner up hands down Laura Mercier. 


A tinted moisturizer is perfect to have on hand 1. for those who don't really wear foundation it's an easy way to ease your way into it it's light weight and gives you an even skin tone, 2. If you truly want a great moisturizer that is Oil-free this is it; it won't leave you looking greasy at the end of the day, it naturally absorbs oil. 


Stila's is also perfect because it not only provides oil-free moisturization but also sun protection and medium coverage, whew and I thought I was multi-tasker.  Not to mention they have a wider variety of colors to chose from. This formula contains White Willow Bark which is a natural alternative to salicylic acid it's also a great skin conditioner, White willow bark has also been used to treat fevers,menstrual cramps and headaches (just some extra research I thought I would add as food for thought who says beauty can't be educational).  This tinted moisturizer also contains Amino Acids which makes the skin feel smooth and pomegranate extract (which as discussed earlier), is an antioxidant, that soothes your skin and leaves it looking radiant! ($36.00) LOVES IT! 




A couple of moisturizers that did not make the list but are super great!!! 


Clinique's Moisture Surge  I am using it now and it really gives your face some loaded hydration! Feels so good going on and a little goes A LONG way! Moderately priced. Can also use as moisture mask for intensified hydration. ($32.00)


 Origin's Make a Difference Ultra Rich Rejuvenating Cream: If you have really really dry skin this provides intense moisture. This quenches the driest skin! ($36.00)
LOVES IT!

Carol's Daughter and Disney's The Princess and The Frog Collection

Disney's The Princess and The Frog hits theaters on December 11 and I cannot wait to see this movie.  I think every woman and girl is a princess at heart and this movie will be great for boosting the self-esteem of young Black girls who now can look and see a princess that looks like them.  The cool thing is that Disney is partnering with Carol's Daughter to bring the Magical Beauty Collection how cute right, gotta love Disney! 

I grew up with a grandmother and mom who told me I was beautiful and smart almost everyday (which can account for my sometimes overally high self-esteem) and I know not every girl received that kind of encouragement and positive energy.  

If you want to order from this collection for your sister, niece, mother, daughter, or anyone who you deem a little princess sign up now! Beginning October 1, Carol's daughter will email all who signed up on the site to be notified specifically for the Princess Tiana assortment, October 2, they will notify everyone else.  I've already signed up at number 12,000 because I have a beautiful cousin and goddaughter who I would like to treat to a special Princess bubble bath!

LOVES IT!!! 

BE The First to GET NEW HOLIDAY STILA Smudge POTS!!!

I can hardly contain my excitement! Sad right but Be the first (I know I will be one of them) to get the New Holiday Smudge Pot Collection! 4 Smudge post for $32.00 they are usually $20 a pop and these colors are looking fierce!