the mind of beauty

Golden Globes + Roots

2012-01-16T19:40:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but notice all of the rooty blondes at The Globes yesterday.

Am I sensing a trend here?

They seem to be only highlighted blondes with no base, but not so far as to be ombre'.

Check it out...

Btw I love Reese's beachy waves!

Adir Abergel for Frederic Fekkai used a one inch barrel curling iron, slightly fingerwaving sections, teased the crown and then sprayed in Fekkai's coiff oceanique tousled wave spray for texture. Obviously there are some pop-in extensions going on there too :)

{Waterfall Braid}

2011-11-29T10:31:00.000-08:00

A cute holiday hair idea is the waterfall braid. It looks difficult but is actually a french braid and instead of threading through the bottom piece of hair, you leave it out and grab from underneath.

Here is a great how-to video and some pretty ideas :)

Creme de Corps

2011-10-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

I've been searching for a great creamy body moisturizer that is not greasy and and lasts all day.

I decided to pop into the 14th St. Kiehl's a couple doors down from my salon in the Meatpacking District and picked up a big bottle of the iconic Creme de Corps ($10-$72).

It's my new fave!

{Eyebrows}

2011-10-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about eyebrows. This should be really easy for me to explain by way of photos....

YES

Your eyebrows should never look like a tadpole or a box with a tail. Never take out the arch and make a corner. Look in the mirror and if your brows don't look like the "yes" brows, see a professional!!!

Brows can change the look of your entire face. This is important!

"I Wear My Sunglasses at Night..."

2011-10-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Do you wear your sunglasses indoors or at night?

The answer should be NO.

...Unless you want to look like an idiot.

There is no need to wear your sunglasses all the time. They are designed to protect your eyes from the SUN.

xoxo

{How to buy makeup}

2011-09-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

Buying makeup can be an intimidating experience whether you're at Sephora or the cosmetics counter at Nordstrom or Bloomy's.

Here are some tips to ensure you get what you want and don't overspend!

Know what you need ahead of time. Keep a list in your smartphone.

Decide how much you want to spend and do a little online research on pricing to see if all the items you need fit into your budget.

If buying a foundation, make sure you have as little makeup or self-tanner on as possible so that the artist can truly match you- unless you have a constant tan.

Never buy a foundation too dark. It's better to go too light and then use more bronzer. Dark foundation makes you look dirty.

Never go to the cosmetics section when it's super busy or during an event. You won't get personalized service.

Makeup never goes on sale- they just give free gifts. These are usually sample size items you can get anytime. Of course, if you were planning on spending that amount anyway, the free gift is a bonus.

If you're in the market for a whole new look, it's best to make an appt. to get your makeup fully done with a makeup artist. That way they can choose all the right colors that work on your skin and you can see exactly how it will look.

Don't get your makeup done at Sephora. The staff is not professionally trained or licensed to do makeup. Sephora is for the shopper who knows exactly the color she needs and wants it fast.

Always tell the person you are buying the makeup from how much you want to spend. That way they aren't pushy on selling.

Best counters for foundation and concealer:

Laura Mercier

Giorgio Armani

La Prarie

Best counters for blush and eyeshadow:

Nars

Bobbi Brown

Chanel

Best counters for illuminating products:

YSL

Dior

Best counters for lipstick and glosses:

Chanel

Chantecaille

Best counters for mascara:

Lancome

Chanel

YSL

It's also important to use high quality tools to apply your makeup. Bobbi Brown has great brushes!

{Curly Girly}

2011-09-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

Curly/ Wavy Hair

Use a moisture masque in place of conditioner twice a week. Curls love moisture!

Only comb your hair in the shower with a wide tooth comb while your conditioner is still in

Part it and rinse

Towel scrunch your hair to dry

Use a serum through the mid shaft to ends

Use a curl cream if you have super curly hair and a light mousse designed for waves if you have wavy hair

Towel scrunch and twist sections away from your face as it's drying

Add more serum in the ends to polish

DON'T

Wrap your hair up in your towel- it will disrupt your curl pattern

Comb your hair after you get out of the shower

Vigorously dry your hair with a towel- it will frizz!

Use a gel or a crunchy mousse

Curly hair products I ♥

Shu Uemura Kaze Wave $38

soft hold + soft definition

Bumble and Bumble Curl Conscious Defining Creme $28

medium hold + more definition

Barex Redefine Creme $30

Very light hold + frizz control + versatile styling creme you can also blow in

Kerastase Elixir Ultime $54

Multi-use amazing lighweight serum + smells yummy!

{Fall Nail Polish Colors 2011}

2011-09-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Deep purple, plum and lilac are the in polishes for Fall 2011.

Metallics are making a comeback for the winter.

Here are some of my fave's:

Essie "carry on" is a great deep plum purple. It's described as a deep burgundy but I think it's more of a plum.

Essie "lady like" is a lilacy mauve.

OPI "diva of geneva" is a great deep metallic purple.

OPI "the color to watch" is a metallic very light pastel lilac.

{Healthy Scalp}

2011-08-30T06:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone should be doing this at-home scalp treatment before you shampoo!

Scalp Brushing

Stimulate your hair follicles, exfoliate your scalp and hydrate your hair with your own natural oils. Get a Mason Pearson or Denman boar bristle/nylon mixture brush and brush your hair vigorously beginning at the scalp and following all the way through to the ends. Brush for 5 mins all over.

Hydrating Oil

Use Shu Uemura Essence Absolue or Phyto Universal Scalp Elixir and massage into the scalp. This will help to balance and hydrate the scalp. Leave in overnight or for 20 mins prior to shampooing.

If you are an everyday shampoo'er, you don't have to do this every time. Twice a week is great.

You'll thank me later!

Hair in the drain?

2011-08-30T06:10:00.000-07:00

Many people ask me this question and thanks "The Today Show" for reminding me to blog about it this morning!

What is the normal amount of hair to lose when shampooing or brushing your hair?

The average person loses about 150 strands of hair a day.

If you think you're losing more, there may be something internal happening. The biggest culprits are medication, recent surgery or hormonal changes. I always tell my new moms who are experiencing hair loss to keep taking those prenatals! The surge of vitamins while pregnant gives you amazing thick hair but the sudden stop after the baby is born can trigger the hair loss. Of course, most new moms experience hair loss even with the vitamins but at least you can rule it out.

{Barbie}

2011-08-25T16:58:00.001-07:00

I was obsessed with Barbie when I was little. I can't tell you how many countless hours I spent braiding her hair, changing her clothes, even giving her a bath and washing her hair with my shampoo and conditioner. My Barbie was married to Ken probably 100 times as well as multiple ninja turtles (courtesy of my little brother).

Photographer Beatrice de Guigne put together this lavish wedding for Barbie and Ken complete with bridesmaids, groomsmen, first dance and all the modern photos you would expect from a real wedding! I love it!

Courtesy of glamour.com. See more here!

{SHU UEMURA}

2011-08-18T17:48:00.000-07:00

It's important to me to not blog about products that I get paid to represent or to blog when I'm uninspired. I've just moved to New York City and life has been hectic! Hence the lapse in blogging.

But in my travels and experiences I have been given the opportunity to work with Shu Uemura hair care through one of my jobs. Shu is a luxury product line stemming from a Japanese spa-like perspective. Everything in the line smells clean and yummy!

After researching and experimenting with the line, I've picked my fave products!

.:.:.:.:.

This is one I keep going back to because of it's versatility and ability to be weightless:

Essence Absolue

A great nourishing serum that is lightweight and can be mixed with other products to loosen and make more pliable, apply as a nourishing bedtime treatment, a pre-shampoo treatment or to use as a heat protectant. It's $68 but will last you forever! Use on wet or dry hair. A cult favorite.

Depsea Foundation

Drawn 200 meters beneath the seas of Japan, this water has more nutrients and minerals than regular water. It's conditioning pH balancing and smells amazing and is a great primer for other products to lay over. $33

Satin Design

This lightweight polishing milk is great for applying to wet hair before blowdrying. It gives heat protection, humidity resistance and frizz control. It's creamy and slick and the brush glides through the hair easily. I cocktail this with essence absolue. $38

Kaze Wave

This mousse-like curl defining foam is easy to apply and makes my wavy hair dry soft, shiny and frizz free. Secret ingredient is acacia gum which is known for it's fortifying and texturing properties. No crunch! $38

Check it out here.

{Update} Jane Velez-Mitchell

2011-07-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that Jane Velez-Mitchell has somewhere somehow heard my plea to take care of her female mullet.

This is my post from last year about this issue:

http://www.courtneysbeautyblog.com/2010/10/open-letter-to-people-i-see-on-news.html

See, sometimes a little constructive criticism goes a long way.

Much better Jane! I approve :)

{Eye Cream}

2011-07-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

A great affordable eye cream I've been using lately is Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Deep Wrinkle Eye Cream. It contains Retinol (for exfoliation and fading of age spots) and Hyaluronic acid (for moisture and plumping). 95% of people see a reduction in fine lines around the eyes.

It's non-greasy and doesn't make my eye makeup smudge and really does seem to make my fine lines disappear. It use it before bed as well as in the morning over my moisturizer.

Find it at any drugstore for around $17.

Progressive Commercial

2011-07-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

I love this!

{Age Appropriate Hairstyles}

2011-06-29T11:18:00.001-07:00

I've been asked several times by my clients to blog about this subject and it is indeed relevant to those who are lost or confused about what style to wear as they are growing ~~older~~ wiser!

Let's begin with the tweens.

It's important to keep a style that's easy for them to do themselves and one that is not too layered or trendy. Dakota Fanning has a great sleek cut with subtle layering that is flattering for any face shape.

Makeup is also important here. Tweens and teens should wear soft makeup especially around the eye area to avoid looking like a raccoon. Instead of a black eyeliner, use a brown shadow and chocolate brown mascara to define the eye.

20-somethings

Let's be honest! This is the age you can wear anything! If you are a young professional, try to experiment with crazy hairstyles on the weekend.

Middle Aged Women (40-60)

First let's talk about what not to do. Side ponytails and pigtails don't automatically make you look younger.

Extensions are also a no-no.

Try to look polished, refined, and classy. The length of your hair depends on your face shape but don't go longer than your bra strap.

Sharon Stone has a great pixie/bob that looks great as an everyday style. Middle aged woman should get used to not being overly creative with hairstyling. Hair should look effortless.

Mature Women

Jamie Lee Curtis has a great naturally salt and peppered crop. Not every woman at this age needs to chop off all their hair but keeping it above the shoulder usually looks best on the average woman. If you are going to color-treat at this age, make sure you keep it touched up regularly to avoid those tell-tale gray roots.

Younger Skin

2011-06-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

I looove this! Little beauty bloggers in the making :)

{Frosted Lipstick}

2011-05-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

While flipping through the channels tonight, I came across what seemed like an endless marathon of Real Housewives.

I couldn't help but notice all the frosted pink lips.

Ladies, frost doesn't look good on anyone! It highlights all the cracks in your lips making them look dry and really doesn't look natural.

Look for a gloss instead if you want the shine. Welcome to 2011.

{Vitamin Water GLOW}

2011-05-23T18:54:00.000-07:00

Vitamin Water came out with a new "beauty water". The flavor is strawberry- guanabana (yes that is a real fruit!) and it includes vitamin c, vitamin b3, vitamin b5, vitamin b6, vitamin b12, vitamin e & a, biotin (for hair and nails), zinc and electrolytes.

It's naturally sweetened and zero calories!

Find it at your local grocery store. $2

{What kind of blowdryer are YOU using?}

2011-05-18T00:17:00.001-07:00

If you have a blowdryer that looks like this...

And your hair looks like this...

There's probably a correlation between the two.

Anything you use on a daily basis should be an investment. Most good blowdryers come with a warranty so if anything happens you can get a replacement. And the amount of money you spend on your cuts and color should be taken care of with great tools and products. Would you take your Bentley through the automated car wash at the Shell Station?

I didn't think so.

Here are my picks for best at-home blowdryers:

T3 Featherweight $139.95

Lightweight, quiet, super fast dry time, tourmaline (emits ions and infrared heat to seal in moisture and reduce frizz). Great for all hair types.

Folica.com

BaByliss Pro 2800 Super Turbo Hair Dryer $69.95

Powerful, ceramic, ionic, infrared, reduces static and frizz, 6 heat settings, 6 speed settings. Best for super thick hair.

Folica.com

SuperSolano 3500 Lite Pro Hair Dryer $119.99

Lightweight, ceramic, infrared, quiet, 2 speeds, 5 temps, polycarbonate shell to withstand impact (in case you drop it), Low EMF (electromagnetic field). Great for all hair types. (I use this exact one at work).

Folica.com

FHI Nano Salon Pro 2000 $149.95

Powerful, cermamic, ionic, tourmaline, heavy duty 1200 hour motor, low EMF. Best for thick hair types. Gets super hot!

Folica.com

Don't forget to attach your nozzle!

XOXO

CrUnCh!!!

2011-05-16T22:46:00.001-07:00

If I see one more picture of someone with spider-leggy, crunchy curls I'm gonna scream! If you are using extreme hold gel to "scrunch" your wet, straight hair into curls, you are making a huge mistake! If your hair still looks wet after drying the whole day, you are doing something wrong.

This is hideous.

Use a light hold creme, serum or mousse formulated for curly hair like Ouidad. Hair should dry soft and wavy, not crunchy or wet looking. Think Taylor Swift.

Find your combo here:

www.ouidad.com

And if you have skinny, straight hair... I'm sorry honey, curly hair isn't in the cards for you. Unless you use a curling iron.

{Tanning Bed in a Tube}

2011-05-16T21:39:00.000-07:00

While waiting for my RCK order to come, I popped on over to Sephora and found this lovely gem.

Too Faced "Tanning Bed in a Tube" has a yummy coconut vacation-ey scent and a great toasty color with a hint of glow. It is classified as a gradual self-tanner but actually doesn't really leave behind a color after you shower.

Find it at Sephora for $25

www.sephora.com

Red Carpet Kolour {RCK}

2011-04-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Denise Richards recently gave this product a shout out via twitter. She and many other celebs use this product on their legs, arms and chest for red carpet events.

It's not a self-tanner, it's a little coverage with

a glow and after it's dry it doesn't transfer on clothing.

Victoria's Secret used to have something similar to this and discontinued it!

RCK comes in 3 colors- light, medium and tan ($39.95) and can be found here:

ofracosmetics.com

Check out more info at:

redcarpetkolour.com

{Beauty on a budget}

2011-04-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know not everyone has the budget for $65 foundation or $40 lip gloss so I did a little shopping around Target and compiled some great finds for the budget savvy.

********

L'Oreal Eversleek Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner

Sulfate free, contains sunflower oil (which I love). Great alternative to expensive sulfate free shampoo's. ($6 each) And don't forget the deep conditioner to use once a week!

Sonia Kashuk Makeup Brushes and Eye Shadow Palettes

Sonia Kashuk is pro makeup artist who has worked with everyone from Oscar De La Renta to Betsey Johnson. She was creative director of cosmetics for Aveda and has written 2 books. Her line at Target is affordable but still professional department store grade.

I love her brushes and eyeshadow palettes. Brushes range from $5-$20 and palettes are around $15.

Essie Nail Color

I love Essie nail polish and am so excited to see it in Target! Of course you can probably find cheaper polish but this is professional grade polish and so readily available! ($8)

Boots No. 7

Boots in known around Europe for their cosmetics and is very affordable here in the states compared to what you would pay over there. I love their skincare. I use the microdermabrasion scrub and have heard great things about the ant-aging and sensitive line. Plus, Target usually has a Boots consultant available to tell you what you need! Prices range from $5-$25.

ELF Lip Gloss

The ELF Hypershine lip gloss is a great gloss to throw in your purse and not worry about losing! It's only 5 bucks!

Goody Hair Accessories

I always check out what's new in the hair aisle and tend to throw bobbi pins or hair ties in my cart from goody. The bobbi pins come in various colors (try to match them to your hair color) and are only $3. I also love the Goody bun spiral. Just twirl your hair into and bun and twist on the Goody Bun Spiral for a secure hold (and its hidden).

Salon Grafix Dry Shampoo

Comes in various colors to camouflage roots or invisible. Great for spraying at the roots of "next-day-hair" to absorb oil and combat that dirty hair smell. ($7-$14)

Lashfood results!

2011-04-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Before

After 4 weeks

So I guess this stuff really works! I put it on like eyeliner on my lash line every night before bed and really did notice longer lashes!

Find it at www.lashfood.com ($95)

I used the natural nano-peptide eyelash conditioner.

{Fishtail Braid}

2011-04-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

Braids seem to be sticking around for this summer. I'm seeing them everywhere!

A popular twist is the fishtail braid.

Here's a quick how to from youtube user foxylocksextensions:

New Fave Nail Color

2011-04-04T22:31:00.000-07:00

Essie Fiji.

Also worn by Emily Maynard from The Bachelor

via

possessionista.com

Find it at Target

Need a quick tan?

2011-04-03T11:32:00.001-07:00

South Seas Skincare is the best sunless tanning line I have ever used! It never smells bad (smells like cucumber melon) and has a great mahogany color rather than yellow/orange.

This Tahitian Tan Mist ($24) is like a quick airbrush tan in a can. Great for legs or touch ups after you get a real airbrush. Put a towel down in your shower and spray lightly about 10 inches away. Leave it on for at least 8 hours.

southseasskincare.com

{LHA}

2011-04-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

LHA

Skinceuticals just acquired this line from Biomedic.

It is designed for aging skin prone to breakouts. Perfect for those in their late 20's, early 30's. It clears the skin while fighting wrinkles and discoloration, killing 2 birds with one stone!

The LHA line consists of 3 parts: Cleanser($36), Toner($36), and Serum($75).

LHA stands for Lipo Hydroxy Acid. Its function is to unclog pores and provide constant cell by cell exfoliation.

The line also contains glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and aminosulfonic acid compound which exfoliates but also replenishes moisture levels.

I started using it last week and it immediately unclogged my pores and cleared my skin. Many of my coworkers use it and love it too.

For more info or to purchase, go to www.skinceuticals.com

{Grace}

2011-04-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite scents is Philosophy's "Amazing Grace".

I love the body lotion and also the perfumed body spritz. It has a light comforting fragrance that lasts all day.

I often spritz my bedding, closet and bath towels with the perfumed body spritz.

Find it at philosophy.com ($25)

{Lashfood}

2011-03-19T23:36:00.000-07:00

Just got Lashfood eyelash conditioner to try!

I'll report back in 4 weeks!

How to Give Yourself a Manicure

2011-03-13T18:55:00.000-07:00

We all know how gross those cheap chain nail salons can be. We can't always trust they are cleaning their tools correctly to get rid of fungus and diseases from other patrons.

Many people don't know how very simple it is to give yourself a proper manicure.

Here's how:

Tools:

(which you can use over and over because they

will be only used on you)

Cuticle Nipper

Cuticle Pusher

(make sure your cuticle pusher is rounded like this one, otherwise it can cut you)

Nail File Nail Buffer Cuticle softener

Steps:

Apply cuticle softener to the cuticles of one hand only and soak for 3 mins. in a bowl of warm soapy water.

Take your hand out and use the big side of your cuticle pusher to gently scrape back the cuticle off your nail bed.

Blot the excess moisture off your nail and use your nippers to clip the lifted skin from the cuticle.

Do the same steps to the other hand.

Wash your hands with soap when finished. Dry.

File and shape your nails with the nail file.

Use the buffer to gently buff the surface of each nail until smooth.

Use nail polish remover to clean the surface of the nails before you polish.

Polish:

Base Coat, Color, Top Coat

Apply one coat of the base. A base coat helps the polish adhere and smoothes the surface of the nail. Apply 2 coats of your color and finally 1 coat of the top coat. Let each layer dry for a few seconds in between.

You can find any of these tools inexpensively at amazon.com

Remember to wash your cuticle pusher and nipper in between each use.

Oscar Hair 2011

2011-02-27T23:22:00.000-08:00

These are my favorite looks from the 2011 Academy Awards that can easily be converted for the upcoming bridal season...

Natalie Portman

You can't see the back but she has her curls swept and secured on one side with a beautiful brooch

Anne Hathaway

I love Anne Hathaway's hair in the bottom photo in the cranberry dress. Loose curls sideswept with a deep side part

Mila Kunis

An ode to the vintage era with broken up finger waves and swooped bangs in the front

{MEN}

2011-02-23T20:28:00.000-08:00

Cropped, clean sides and edges are all the rage for spring.

Clippered or scissor over comb sides blended into a longer top with texture is what you need to ask your stylist for.

Clean boys! Clean!

{Meet in the Middle}

2011-02-18T19:35:00.001-08:00

What do all these pictures have in common?

Center Parts!

Do it!

{Olivina}

2011-02-16T22:39:00.000-08:00

Olivina is an amazing line from Napa Valley, California. Soaps, lotions, cremes, bubble bath, lip butter, scrubs, candles- all paraben and sulfate free with ahh-mazing scents all based around olives.

My favorites of the 5 signature fragrances are honeysuckle rose and classic olive.

I keep the Classic Olive hand creme ($18) in my car and use it several times daily and have the Honeysuckle Rose hand and body wash ($28) in my bathroom. Every time I wash my hands I'm in heaven!

I love giving Olivina as gifts too.

Find it at www.olivinanapavalley.com

WeOlive- Paso Robles

Pelican Hill Resort- Newport Coast

California

{Masque}

2011-02-16T22:15:00.000-08:00

EVERYONE needs to be using a moisturizing masque on their hair at least twice a week!

So many of my clients don't realize the importance of masques and think their daily conditioner is enough to keep their hair healthy.

*Make sure your masque doesn't contain a lot of protein, as this can make your hair brittle and cause breakage.

My favorite hydrating masque's are:

Barex Colourlife Masque $28

Contains sunflower oil, vitamin E and anti-oxidants

http://www.beautypantry.com/bacoma8.html

Kerastase Age Premium Masque $50

Contains hyaluronic acid (also used in skincare for hydration and in injectables for plumping!)

http://www.kerastase-usa.com/_en/_us/agepremium-masque_substantif.htm

Oribe Signature Moisture Masque $59

UV protection, intense hydration, watermelon and sunflower extracts, wild mango butter

www.neimanmarcus.com

Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk Foundation

2011-02-16T22:02:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with Giorgio Armani foundation! (and the primer, brush and powder) I'm on my second bottle and have waited to blog about it until I was sure I loved it!

The Lasting Silk has SPF 20, great coverage and a matte

finish. It lasts all day and goes on silky smooth. You apply using a foundation brush (G.A. has a great one).

I get compliments on my skin all the time lately and I don't have great skin! It's all in the makeup...

Make sure you use a primer and a translucent loose powder to lock it in place.

$59

Find it here

Fave Product!

2011-02-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

One of my all-time favorite products that I recently just rediscovered is Bumble and Bumble Styling Balm from their treatment line. The treatment line has been revamped and this product has been discontinued but it is available through amazon.com

It has a flexible hold with moisturizers to keep your hair hydrated and really promotes curl if you put it in wet hair and let it naturally dry (think beachy!). It's also great for blowing into the hair for a sleek style.

It's amazing!

{Product Diversion}

2011-02-05T21:13:00.000-08:00

Seeing your favorite products in the drug store, grocery store, or big box retailer?

More and more I am coming across "only sold in a professional salon" products on shelves where they shouldn't be. This is a huge problem in the haircare industry and has been in and out of the courtrooms.

How do they get there?

No one knows exactly and they can come from different sources. The products can be old and sold to the store from a failed salon or the bottles can be filled with product that looks and smells like the real thing but is cheaply made filler. It can be contaminated and make you sick. The store can also be getting it through some sort of middle man that is in fact selling the real product to the store without the company knowing.

The funny part is that most of the products sold in the store are more expensive than what you can get it for in the salon- usually by about $2-$6.

The point is: If you see a product that says "guaranteed only when sold at a professional salon" and you look around and you're not in a salon-

don't buy it!

{Primer}

2011-01-24T10:58:00.000-08:00

Before you apply your foundation and after your moisturizer, you should always use a primer.

A primer under your makeup fills large pores and fine lines and smoothes out the texture of your skin before you apply your foundation. It also helps your makeup last a little longer because it gives it something to adhere to.

I've tried lots of different ones but these are my faves:

If you have sensitive skin:

Makeup Forever HD Microperfecting Primer $32

It's light and non-creamy- perfect for skin that is prone to breakouts.

If you have normal skin:

Giorgio Armani Light Master Primer $56

It's light pink in color which makes it glowy on your skin and has a medium-light consistency.

BTW Giorgio Armani foundation is amazing too!

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Face Primer $10

Thick and creamy, also light pink in color which makes it luminous. Probably not good for everyday but for special occasions it's a great "spackle".

{Golden Globes}

2011-01-17T18:30:00.001-08:00

I couldn't help but notice all the retro hair last night for the Golden Globes!

Soft waves slightly broken up

French twists

Sleek Ponies

Seems like we're going back to the basics this year. Also, color is nicely blended without any harsh contrast in colors and soft tone on tone highlights. Nice and natural with more emphasis on makeup. Beautiful!

Bikini giveaway!

2011-01-11T23:36:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite fellow bloggers, Diana Kang has a great blog all about fashion and is giving away $75 to swimspot.com!

Click this link to check out Diana's blog:

DianaKang

And don't forget to enter to win!

Brazilian Blowout

2011-01-10T14:28:00.000-08:00

Hearing bad things about Brazilian Blowout?

Read this.

http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/news/2010/12/17/brazilian-blowout-sues-oregon-osha.html

PS: I don't use this product, I use Coppola Keratin.

{NOZZLE}

2011-01-09T12:16:00.000-08:00

Do you blowdry with or without a nozzle?

The answer should be WITH.

I come across so many people (including professional stylists!) who take off the nozzle and blowdry without it.

The nozzle is there for a reason. It gives you more control and directs airflow so you can blow the cuticle of your hair down instead of puffing it up and making it frizzy.

The outer layer of your hair is made up of the scaly layers called the cuticle. The cuticle is supposed to be sealed and lay in a downward direction.

From repeated damage or blowdrying without a nozzle, this is what it looks like blown up- which leads to frizzy unruly hair.

Put the nozzle on the end of the blowdryer and "chase" your brush with the end of the blowdryer pointing down. This will ensure your cuticle is laying down. Don't forget heat protecting products!

{TESTtube}

2011-01-05T19:50:00.000-08:00

New Beauty, an innovative beauty magazine featuring the latest products from the medical industry as well as over the counter has a way for you to test out new products quarterly!

It's called The testtube.

4 times a year, for $29.95 each, a giant test tube is mailed to you filled with the latest beauty products from haircare to anti-aging to skincare to smile products all for you to try!

The tube actually has very high quality, high priced products at the top of the beauty industry for a huge deal! (It's worth $150).

Order yours today!

http://testtube.newbeauty.com

I highly recommend the magazine as well!

3-in-1 styling method-Dry/brush/style

2011-01-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

{Blowdry Assistant}

2011-01-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

Behold... the Hot Tools Thermal Hot Air Brush

This is a great tool for people who have shoulder length hair and have a hard time round brushing with the blowdryer. The key to this contraption is to regularly rough blowdry your hair until it's about 80% dry and then section and use this tool. It's like a blowdryer/ curling iron/ round brush in one. Hot air blows out from the core and the brush is made of metal so it heats up.

I got it for my mom as a Christmas gift and she loved it. I tried it on my hair too and obviously I know how to round brush my own hair so I don't really need it. I did think it sealed my ends and prevented frizz.

Find it on Amazon for only $24.60!!

http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Thermal-Air-Brush/dp/B002TO3K5C

tip: do not use this to blowdry your hair all the way. It will break from excessive use!

Wash your Brushes!

2010-12-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a tip you ALL should know:

Wash your makeup brushes on a regular basis (once a week) to avoid product build-up, mildew, and bacteria from forming in your makeup brushes and making you break out!

Wash with warm water and a mild shampoo like baby shampoo or whatever you have in your shower. Wet the brush, pump some of the soap in your palm and make swirls with the brush to lather. Rinse and set out to dry overnight.

This is a must!

{inspiration}

2010-12-18T20:43:00.000-08:00

http://www.hershesons.com/hair_tips

{Million Lashes}

2010-12-09T22:10:00.000-08:00

One of my Christmas gifts from my fabulous client, Lauren was L'oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Macara for me to review!

My rules for perfect mascara are:

-It can't smudge under my eyes at the end of the day

-It has to be lengthening and thickening

-It can't make my lashes look "stubby" at the end of the day

I usually use Chanel Inimitable Intense but it dries up pretty quickly...

So, I tested it out and I LOVE IT! And so much cheaper than Inimitable!

($9 at your local drugstore)

TonyTail!

2010-12-06T22:55:00.000-08:00

My BFF Tash found these great little ponytails at Sephora that create the look of a hair-wrapped ponytail without the pro to do it for you!!

What a great idea!!

They come in a variety of colors from blonde to brown to black. ($9)

www.sephora.com

{ChinCHILLY}

2010-11-28T11:16:00.000-08:00

New favorite "greige".

ESSIE CHINCHILLY.

Speaking of Christina Aguilera...

2010-11-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

Girlfriend what happened to your hair!???

This is so much better...

I know she's going through a divorce but whoever her stylist is should be fired!

Have a Party on Your Nails!

2010-11-15T23:31:00.000-08:00

With Cher and Christina Aguilera's new movie Burlesque coming out, OPI came out with a whole line of polishes in the spirit of the film.

I love the chunky glitter ones either alone or over your favorite polish. I currently have on my toes hot pink polish with 2 coats of the rainbow-ey one over. It looks like a birthday cake explosion! And with my birthday coming up on the 20th, it's perfect!!

If you shouldn't be blonde, don't be.

2010-11-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

Not everyone is meant to be blonde. If you are blonde or are thinking of being blonde and not sure if you look good, go into a wig store and try on several blonde wigs. You can take the wig off if it doesn't work for you- but once you've colored it, it's hard to go back. Most people don't look good blonde.

Examples:

Scrub my Face!

2010-11-13T19:48:00.000-08:00

With all this dry weather and wind, my skin was looking a little dull and flaky. I didn't have my beauty arsenal with me as I was up in Paso Robles visiting my parents and I needed a really good facial exfoliant.

While I was at Target, I was determined to find something cure my lifeless skin. I checked out tons of different exfoliants in the skincare aisle- they were all cream-based and either apricot or some other botanical ingredient that I knew wouldn't be abrasive enough. I wanted something with a fine, sand-like texture that I could use once a week.

And there it was. Boots No. 7 Total Renewal Microdermabrasion Exfoliator. I took it out of the box and rubbed a little between my fingers and loved the texture. I rubbed some on in circular motions after washing my face and it totally did the trick. Make sure you use a heavier cream or moisturizing mask afterward as too much exfoliation can dry out your skin.

Find it at your local Target. ($15)

Dishwater blonde??

2010-11-03T16:43:00.001-07:00

It baffles me how many blondes don't know this simple trick to combat brassy, dishwatery, yellowy blonde.

The Scenario: Your hair looked fabulous for about a week after you got your highlights done but now somehow looks less light and bright. I hear it all the time.

On the color wheel, purple counteracts yellow because they

are right across from each other- you could call them opposites.

If this is your problem- get your butt over to your favorite beauty supply (they all carry various brands). Clairol Shimmer Lights (sold at Sally's) is a popular one. It doesn't really matter the brand as long as it is purple in color.

Use once a week (don't go overboard). Shampoo with your normal shampoo first and then shampoo with the purple. Leave on for 1-3 minutes (the lighter your blonde, the less time you should leave it on). Rinse and condition.

WOW...

2010-11-01T22:29:00.000-07:00

Um, excuse me, what!!!?? WOW Paul Mitchell you really outdid yourself!!

PAUL MITCHELL AWAPUHI WILD GINGER

The science:

Using keratriplex (a blend of 3 proteins derived from sheeps wool!) the product penetrates deep into the hair shaft repairing damage and reinforcing the cuticle. The result is repaired, sealed shiny, more manageable hair.

Ok, so I shampooed with Moisturizing Lather Shampoo, used the Keratin Intensive Treatment for 5 minutes and rinsed, and afterward used the styling treatment oil.

I only had to shampoo once (and I usually shampoo twice). It lathers great and you don't need much. My hair felt moisturized, slippery, smooth and the products smell amazing!! The treatment totally detangled my hair and left it shiny and smooth. The oil is alot like the consistency of Moroccan Oil but smells better. The line has the look and feeling of a very high end line- with slick black packaging and high quality ingredients- and it's sulfate free!

Usually I don't like any Paul Mitchell products but I think this is one I will keep stocked in my shower!

yummy yummy.

http://awapuhi.paulmitchell.com/

{Awapuhi}

2010-11-01T16:47:00.000-07:00

Just bought the new {highly advertised} Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger set. I will be testing out the shampoo, conditioner, treatment oil, keratin treatment, and sea spray.

Get ready!

http://awapuhi.paulmitchell.com/

An open letter to people I see on the news...

2010-10-27T21:42:00.001-07:00

Dear Jane Velez-Mitchell-

What is this? A female mullet?! WAY too many layers and not enough hair on the bottom. Please grow out some layers or cut those ends short.

Dear Colleen Williams-

Your skunk streak in your hair drives me crazy! Sometimes it's orange, sometimes it's toned beige. Sometimes there are more than one. Fire your colorist! This picture doesn't even do it justice. Just watch channel 4 at night.

Dear Meg Whitman-

Honey- please look into a keratin treatment, some bangs, some dimensional color and a new haircut. Enough said.

aahhhhhhh...

So glad I got that off my chest, it's been bugging me for a while.

{OMBRE}

2010-10-27T10:27:00.001-07:00

The latest hair color trend is Ombre. Ombre is a gradual fading of the color from the roots eventually getting lighter at the ends. I'm currently rocking it thanks to my fellow Pelican Hill stylist, Anna. Coppery, golden, warm brunette colors are so in for fall.

Happy {almost} Halloween!

2010-10-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

With Halloween quickly approaching, here are some glam beauty ideas for the finishing touches to your perfect costume!

{Lashes} Glamourous lashes look great anytime but for Halloween, try using ones that are either super thick and black or colorful with shimmery flecks. Don't forget great glue like Duo (which you can find at the drugstore). Makeup Forever has a great Halloween glam pack that comes with lashes, glitter and shadow. Find it at Sephora ($42).

http://www.sephora.com/browse/pro

duct.jhtml

?id=P273919&categoryId=B70

{Goth Lipstick} Go for a color that is a deep mahogany that is matte for a goth look that's not too goth. Stay away from black or blue or too glittery or shiny. Yves St. Laurent Belle De Rose is a great color.

http://www.yslbeautyus.com/make-up-lips-lipstick/c38_42_50/p533/rouge-pur-couture-pure-color-lipstick-spf-15/product_info.html

{Nail Art} Sephora for OPI chic print for nails. Adhesive polish that comes in chic prints that is activated by friction. Just rub it on and go! ($15) comes with 16 patches in box.

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jht

ml;jsessionid=4PSL0QGYDZJQYCV0KQRRPIQ?id=P263902&categoryId=C19281

{Hair extensions} Any good wig store or a Sally Beauty Supply carries packs of pre-clipped extensions in various colors. Most come in packs for your full head but occasionally you can find pop-pieces in crazy colors to add faux highlights. If you can't find the right color, buy blonde ones and tint with Manic Panic semi-permanant color yourself ($10). Follow directions on the jar. Dont use on your real hair as it is semi-permanant and takes about 4 weeks to wash out! Find manic panic at urban outfitters.

Manic panic also has pre-colored pop pieces for $8 at Urban Outfitters!

{Glitter} For a fairy tale look, go for subtle shimmery glitter around your upper cheekbones for a beautiful glow. Sephora glitter shimmer pots on sale for $5! Apply a primer first and press in with your fingertips.

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P250100&categoryId=B70

{BEST} Illuminator

2010-10-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

I've already posted on this before but I love it so much I feel the need to post again...

Yves St. Laurent Touche Eclat {Radiant Touch}

This amazing illuminating pen is great for under the eyes, sides of the nose and around the mouth to add some serious light to your face. It comes in a great click dispenser brush so you can apply easily. It is a MUST in my cosmetic bag. I use #2.

It's seriously sleep in a bottle.

Find it at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Neimans or whevere YSL is sold. ($40)

Plump Me Up

2010-10-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

Featured in Cosmo, Sally Hansen's PM Lip Plumper caught my eye. I got some last week at CVS ($10) and decided to try. I usually use Rosebud

Salve before bed but have been using this lately. I'm no stranger to plumping- as I've had Restalayne in my lips in the past...

The claims are that it has a collagen and a peptide complex which plumps and retinol which exfoliates.

In the last week I've noticed an exfoliating and moisturizing effect with a slight plumping when I wake up. Nothing major but I think I'll keep using until the tube runs out. Probably won't buy again.

www.sallyhansen.com

Current Favorite Polish {CHANEL}

2010-10-17T23:11:00.000-07:00

CHANEL Particuliere. Great Greyish-Beige or "greige". Been around for a while but it's my new fave, can't take it off!

WEN haircare

2010-10-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

After many people have asked me about WEN, I decided to order some myself. My friend Natasha had ordered some a few months ago and had said it made her hair greasy- but everyone has different textures so I wanted to try.

The commercials and ads are everywhere claiming that WEN helps repair damage and retains color. It also claims that it replaces the need for a deep conditioner yet includes a separate deep conditioner in the box...

You have to apply about 15 pumps of the stuff to your hair and keep adding water- more if you have thick hair- which means the bottle is going to run out fast! And at $50 every month, that gets a little pricey. You have to leave it in for the length of your shower and run it through your ends.

My hair was semi-detangled and I still used my leave-in conditioner afterward.

The first time I used it, my hair felt pretty good but was a little weighed down. I also noticed that my blonde hair looked really dingy. The pictures of the models on WEN's website also have dingy blonde hair as well as "Chaz" himself!! The second time and for the remainder of the 2 weeks I used it, my hair was pretty greasy the day after and I normally wash every other day.

The conclusion is that WEN may be good for someone with super thick african-american hair or someone with thick, dry, curly, brittle hair. Even then, someone with that thick of hair probably needs something more cleansing for their scalp to remove build-up. There is nothing revolutionary about a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner- they are all over the grocery stores and were a fad in the 90's. The hair needs to be properly cleansed before moisture is added to the ends. 2 separate processes are there for a reason.

And who is "Chaz Dean" anyway!!??

Spin Pin!

2010-09-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

As I was cruising the aisles at Target today for about 2 hours, I came across the hair accessories section. I had heard of these things before and decided to get some to try.

Goody Spin Pin ($6)

I wear my hair piled on top of my head the majority of the time when I'm not at work so these were a perfect idea!

I wound my hair on top in a bun and corkscrewed one in each side of the bun. It really holds!!!

They come in light and dark so you can match it to the color of your hair.

Great idea Goody!

{Surf Spray}

2010-09-19T23:11:00.001-07:00

This is definitely one of those products you should keep in your beauty arsenal at all times.

Bumble and Bumble's Surf Spray is not like any other. It gives you a "just out of the ocean" beachy look and adds a little grit for updo's.

I use it in my ends to add texture when my hair is dry, or

when I wear it curly for separation. I love it for when I pull my hair back into a low bun because it holds the style and makes it so my hair isn't too slippery.

Find it at any bumble and bumble salon and use wet or dry but don't go overboard!

($23)

http://www.bumbleandbumble.com/product/spp.tmpl?CATEGORY_ID=CAT72&PRODUCT_ID=221

Melasma

2010-09-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

Today, someone asked me about treatment for Melasma. Melasma is the discoloration of the skin on the face usually from taking birth control pills or from pregnancy.

I decided to ask my skincare supervisor at Pelican Hill what she thought about treatment. She firmly believes one should use a topical creme containing hydroquinone. Even though there are some articles you may find bashing the use of hydroquinone, this is the best lightening agent for the dark pigmentation.

The best one is from the Obagi line which you can find at higher end med spas and has to be prescribed by a doctor. There is also another one with 2% hydroquinone from a line called DDF. ($56)

Available at Sephora, Amazon, QVC and one thier own website: Good reviews.

http://www.ddfskincare.com/p-54-ddf-fade-gel-4trade-05-oz-15-ml.aspx

Makeup for Sensitive Skin

2010-09-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

If you're anything like me, you break out from changing the slightest element of your beauty routine.

As far as makeup goes, the experts say you should use mineral makeup because it is natural and gentle on the skin. This is true to an extent but watch out for certain brands such as Bare

Minerals.

Bare Minerals has some good blush, eye and lip colors but as far as their foundation goes (and I know from personal experience as well as other people)- breakout city.

The idea behind the line is that you use this brush to "swirl, tap, and buff" these minerals into your skin to give you a flawless, natural finish.

Minerals are essentially made from rocks which are ground up with pigment to form a powder. This particular line doesn't mill the minerals enough so that if you looked at it under a microscope you would see rough edges.

You take these rough fragments and buff them onto your skin and over time it irritates the heck out of it- thus causing excessive oil and acne.

The creator of Bare Minerals (who no longer owns the company) created a line called ColoreScience which claims to mill the minerals many more times than Bare Minerals and uses purer ingredients.

I'm not actually a fan of mineral makeup because I don't like the consistency, but what I DO love is Laura Mercier oil free tinted moisturizer ($42) and the oil free foundation ($42).

It depends on how much coverage you want- the tinted moisturizer has a sheer, buildable finish and the foundation is a little more dense. I wear the oil-free foundation in Sunny Beige which is one of the most popular colors. Laura Mercier also has a yellow base the their foundation which is generally the undertone most of us have in our skin- thus creating a more natural color.

www.lauramercier.com

www.colorescience.com

Lash Tinting

2010-09-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

I'm on my way to Hawaii in a week and lots of makeup and mascara is no bueno on the beach.

Hence, lash tinting!

Most estheticians do it and it only takes about 15 minutes. You lay on facial table and the technician will lay cotton under your eyes and apply the tint with a mascara wand. You can choose all sorts of colors from black to dark blue to chocolate brown.

Usually costs anywhere from $20-$30 and lasts a few weeks depending on the products you wash your face with.

Udo's Oil

2010-09-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

I discovered this amazing oil through one of my clients who participated in Pelican Hill Resort's Balanced Wellness program.

Celebrity trainer, Ashley Borden, who fronts the program swears by this stuff and introduced it to my client.

What it is:

A dietary supplement: a blend of essential fatty acids (the good fats) Omega 3,6, and 9. Use it instead of fish oil.

What it does:

Lubricates your skin and hair, helps you lose weight, and aids in workout recovery. Also helps with thyroid issues and joint pain. Boosts energy, strengthens immune system, improves digestion, and decreases PMS symptoms.

Take 1 tablespoon daily per 50 lbs. of body weight. KEEP REFRIGERATED!

Find it in the refrigerated vitamin section at Whole Foods, Mother's Market or any higher-end health food store. ($25)

More info:

http://udoerasmus.com/products/oil_blend_en.htm

http://www26.netrition.com/udos_choice_page.html

New Chanel

2010-09-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

Chanel has come out with a new version of Initmitable!!!

I was at the counter the other day and got so excited when I heard it's even better! And it doesn't dry out :)

It's INIMITABLE INTENSE.

($30)

Here is the description from the Chanel site:

This technologically advanced formula builds on the success of the original mascara, delivering dramatic effects with a unique brush. The result is a more intense lash look, with the same easy application. Lashes appear longer, thicker and more curled, yet each lash, even the finest, is still precisely separated – without clumping, spiking or flaking.

www.chanel.com

Hey there Raccoon!

2010-09-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

From what I know about dark circles under the eyes, they are usually caused by hyperpigmentation or something going on in your body (i.e. medication or iron deficiency).

Lightening cremes or vitamins may help but for something serious, try getting laser treatments.

IPL (or intense pulsed light) is a laser commonly used for laser hair removal, tattoo removal, and vericose veins. It can also be used for the dark circles under the eye to lighten the appearance. If it can fade a tattoo, it can fade dark circles, right!?

I've recently got some laser done on my underarms and bikini area with this and let me tell you IT WORKS WONDERS!! Imagine never having to shave again!

It stings a little, but there is no burning or blistering- thus, no down-time.

Since the economy is kinda in the hole, many places offer it for a reasonable price. The place I go is $100 per 15 minutes of laser time- which is more than enough for a few areas. of course you have to go every month or so- a total of about 5 times depending on your skin.

Make an appt. for a consultation at your local med spa- it's totally worth it!!!

I HEART LASERS!!!!!

SALT

2010-08-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

So I went to see SALT this weekend and couldn't help but notice Angelina's luscious lips and the amazing gloss they had on them! I did a little research and found out what the gloss is so we can all be Angelina's!!!

It's Chantecaille Brilliant Lip Gloss in Charm. Available at Neiman Marcus. ($28)

"Microspheres of vegetal polysaccarides plump and hydrate lips, creating soft, supple lips and an ultra shiny finish"

www.neimanmarcus.com

PS- coming soon! Learn how to do Angelina's loose side braid seen in the movie!

Eczema Fighter

2010-08-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

I've known this for a while and have been told by dermatologists this is amazing at fighting those tell-tale little bumps you get on your skin especially when it's dry out.

Rub Head and Shoulders dandruff shampoo on dry skin and leave on for a few minutes. Rinse with warm water. Repeat every day until bumps are gone!

Voila! You're Welcome.

PS Don't use this on your head. Head and Shoulders is too exfoliating for your scalp and will cause more dandruff.

Enzo Milano Tutorial

2010-08-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

Enzo Milano

2010-08-08T11:12:00.001-07:00

I love love love to use these irons for making beachy waves on my clients. I recently got the large conico iron and love to use it on myself as well. It's pretty easy to use and comes with a heat resistant glove so you don't burn yourself. Clampless curling irons ensure you won't have that barrel- curl look and comes off a little more natural.

Purchase at enzomilano.com ($130)

Best Diamond Jewelry Cleaner!

2010-08-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

Are you ready?

Windex!

Yep, you heard me right! I've been told this numerous times by jewelers and read it online as being the best jewelry cleaner there is! I've purchased so many other cleaners and noticed they all smell like Windex anyway- so why not just use the real thing?

What you do:

-Fill a small bowl with warm soapy water and soak the jewelry in it for 5 mins to remove any dirt or lotion (also scrub with an old toothbrush while it's in there)

-Rinse with warm water

-Fill the same bowl with Windex and soak for a minute

-Rinse again with warm water, dry it off and wear!

It will remove impurities and add lots of shine!

Ziba

2010-07-01T09:47:00.001-07:00

When I'm too lazy to wax my own brows, I go to Ziba Beauty.

Ziba offers threading and waxing, facials, and Mehndi (an indian ancient art of painting the body with elaborate designs using henna).

My Ziba is right across from South Coast Plaza and I see Pooja. She rocks! I get my brows threaded once every 10 days or so and it's only $11! Threading is quick and easy with no waxy mess. Check out this little clip to see what it actually is!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_94Rx7GgeE

Goodbye Dirty Hair!

2010-06-28T20:42:00.000-07:00

You really shouldn't was your hair every day. It strips the natural oils from the hair and leads to dry, brittle ends and less time between haircuts- thus, costing you more money.

If your hair tends to get a little oily between washings, try using a dry shampoo. I've tried bumble and bumble's and it leaves a waxy residue on my hair. The only great thing about that one is that they come in different colors to camouflage grey roots. The clear one leaves dark hair white.

I've also used baby powder, and the ingredients in baby powder really aren't meant for absorbing oil on the hair. It also leaves a weird build-up.

At Sephora I found THE BEST dry shampoo ever! Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo ($19). It really does what it says it will. It soaks up oil, reduces product build-up and adds volume. It has a lemon-verbena fragrance that is so refreshing and gets rid of that "dirty hair" smell.

To use: apply in vertical sections with the pointed tip and squirt a little powder out on the root only. Apply all over the hair and then turn your head upside down and shake. Use a boar-bristle brush to blend product and touch up your blowout.

www.sephora.com

Frizz Fighter

2010-06-28T13:07:00.001-07:00

I was watching the show "The Doctor's" the other day and they claimed that the majority of women complain about their frizzy hair over any other body issue.

Living Proof has spent years in the lab coming up with a new molecule called PolyfluoroEster which is much smaller than the silicone molecule.

I decided to march on over to Sephora (who carries the product) to try it for myself. I bought the straight styling creme ($24) because I have medium to thick hair. I applied root to tip on wet hair and round-brush blowdryed my hair. I didn't use anything else.

It was pretty fabulous and has a light hold. It sealed my ends and my hair didn't frizz up all day.

They also have products for wearing your hair curly as well as shampoo and conditioner and hairspray. Just choose the way you want to wear your hair and then the texture of hair you have.

I'm a fan!

www.livingproof.com

Eucerin

2010-05-24T16:18:00.001-07:00

For those of you I tan or for anyone at all:

I love this lotion. It was referred to me by a dermatologist and is great for using as a daily lotion over an airbrush tan.

Eucerin Everyday Protection SPF 15 body lotion.

http://www.eucerinus.com/products/hb_epblotion.html

It gives great light protection from the sun and provides antioxidants. Great fro sensitive skin and won't take off a spray tan. Lasts all day.

Available at Target and CVS.

Hautelook.com and Ruelala.com

2010-05-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I have never blogged about these!

Hautelook and Ruelala are both websites that offer deals from your favorite designers. Usually it is a 2-3 day sale and new designers are featured daily. You have to be referred to the website to join and they email you daily to let you know what designers are featured. The savings are usually 50-75% off!!! I've ordered my fair share of deals!

Go to www.hautelook.com

www.ruelala.com

and enter courtgoforth@gmail.com to join!

French Women Don't Get Fat

2010-05-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

I was watching the Today show a few weeks ago and came across this cute little french woman who had great fashion tips and recipes that parisian fashionistas do! She wrote a book called "French Women Don't Get Fat" and has a website of the same name.

One thing she loves is a great fragrance and suggested Hanae Mori Butterfly. I'm in love. I suggest you find your nearest Bloomingdale's or Neiman's and try it on.

New Obsession

2010-05-24T15:59:00.000-07:00

CHANEL lipgloss in Laser.

Looks freaky scary but actually not. High shine, very sheer pink. Looks great on everyone. Use alone or over your favorite gloss or lipstick.

Great for summer.

http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/Makeup-Lipgloss-GLOSS-FLUO-DE-CHANEL-88791

Mother and Daughter

2010-05-04T09:56:00.000-07:00

Moms- why are you wearing the same hairstyle as your daughter? We know you're related. I see this all too much.

Stop with the scrunchies!!

2010-05-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

Scrunchies are not chic. Please stop wearing them.

Easy styles for "skinny hair"

2010-05-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

My friend and client, Laura asked me to post some styles for those who have fine hair. Here you go!

Blow dry your hair upside down and pin back a small section and fasten with a bobbi pin. Spray some bumble and bumble surf spray in your ends for a boho look and instant fullness and texture.
Get some velcro rollers. Blow dry your hair and roll it in sections around the rollers while the hair is still hot. Let cool for 20 mins. Spray with some light hairspray before you pull them out.
Get some clip-in hair extensions and take them to your stylist to have them cut to match your hair. Section your hair and pop them in for instant fullness. Make sure you get human hair ones that are closest to your color. You can curl them and wash and condition like real hair. Surprisingly, Sally's has some good ones.
Rouched pony: Get a teasing brush (not comb). Spray some root lifter on your roots and blowdry upside down. Tease the crown of your head section by section and lightly smooth over the top so it doesn't look tangled. Get a clear pony holder and fasten a pony that is level with your eyes. Pull some pieces up in the crown area for added texture. Spray with a light spray.

Retinol

2010-05-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone should use retinol. period. Retinol is a concentrated form of vitamin A usually in a cream form you should use every other night as part of your skincare routine. It boosts collagen production, increases cell turnover, unclogs pores and fades scars, and reduces fine lines. Who doesn't have those issues? Try it, you'll thank me.

www.skinceuticals.com

Stop the Confusion! Brazilian Blowout and Keratin

2010-04-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've all heard of the Brazilian Blowout and The Keratin treatments by now. Each of them slams the other for use of formaldehyde, fumes, smell, damage, etc. They are designed to smooth the frizz out of the hair for a period of time without disrupting the curl pattern. They make it easier to style your hair, give it a glossy finish, and protects your color.

I decided to do some research on each one to find out what would be the best for my clients who are asking for it. The Brazilian Blowout is relatively new to the industry and originated in California where it is the most popular. Stylists have been using gloves, masks, and goggles while applying it because of the fumes that can irritate your eyes. They have released what they call their "Formaldehyde Free" formula but won't release their Material Safety Data sheet which describes the list of chemicals in the product. The Brazilian Blowout does slightly break the "S" bond that forms the curl in the hair and produces a straightening affect.

The Coppola Keratin Complex is a smoothing complex used worldwide and has been around longer than the Brazilian Blowout. There is a food-grade aldehyde in the formula similar to the coating they put on M&M's to make them shiny. When heated correctly, it does not turn into formaldehyde. They do release their MSDS sheet which lists no potential harsh chemicals. After physically handling the product myself, there is no unpleasant smell but when heated, my eyes felt like someone was cutting a fresh onion near me. My eyes were the only ones affected and everyone else in the room was fine. You do have to leave on this treatment for 2 to 3 days depending on the texture of the hair but results can last up to 5 months, which is longer than that of the Brazilian which claims about 3 months. Each is similar in price.

For more info. visit www.keratincomplex.com or www.brazilianblowout.com

LIPFUSION

2010-01-10T22:54:00.000-08:00

We LOVE plump, fat lips! LIPFUSION's consistency, the flavors and the colors are amazing. It tingles, but doesn't sting- it gives sort of a numbness that I love. My BFF Tash has the InFATuation ($29) and I have the shine LIPFUSION ($38). Both are great, the shine one comes in a larger tube.

Lipfusion seeks out the body's natural moisture to plump and rehydrate the molecules in the formula that absorbs into the lips. Results can last up to 48 hours.

www.lipfusion.com

Nioxin

2010-01-09T00:08:00.000-08:00

Do you have a man in your life who's worried about hair loss? Well I do! They say it is a genetic thing that comes from your mother's father. If he's bald- you'll be a baldy too.

You can try rogaine, plugs, transplants, etc. but a good place to start is with Nioxin. "skin care for the scalp". Think about it- your hair grows from your scalp, if your scalp is not healthy, why should the hair that comes out of it be healthy?

Nioxin has great kits with shampoo, conditioner, and an overnight foam treatment follicle booster that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and brings nourishment to the hair. Men also tend to forget about conditioning which is an important role in maintaining a balanced scalp.

And hey- women can use it too!

Nioxin has a great portion of thier site for assessing your scalp needs so you can find the right product to fit you.

Find Nioxin at http://www.nioxin.com/ or ask your stylist.

Favorite Lacquer Colour!

2010-01-08T23:41:00.000-08:00

One of my new favorite SpaRitual nail lacquer colours is Idyllic ($10). It's an amazing creamy nude/pink shiny bundle of goodness. Great for the "non-polished, yet polished" look.
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It's perfect on pale hands or bronzed hands and is so user-friendly. I get so many compliments on this colour- people are aways asking what it is!
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Make sure you use a base coat, 2 coats of colour and a top coatwith ANY polish to keep it lasting longer and looking like you've had a mani by a pro!
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You can find SpaRitual at The Resort at Pelican Hill or go to the website for more locations.
www.sparitual.com

YSL Touche Eclat

2009-10-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this stuff!

It's a luminizing pen that acts as a highlighter, undereye concealer and instant glow. Everyone loves this magic wand! Use it under your eyes, around your lips, under your brow and the sides of your nose after you apply your foundation and powder.

Amazing!!

Find it at any Yves St. Laurent counter or at www.sephora.com

$40

Do you have a 5 o'clock shadow in your armpits?!

2009-10-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

Well I did! I used to be an everyday pit shaver until.... I was at Target the other day browsing through the aisles throwing unnecessary things into my cart when I came across this:

Dove ultimate visibly smooth deodorant!

It has "pro-epil complex" which is basically the same stuff that I have in my brow lotion that makes the hair not grow back as fast. I bought the wild rose fragrance.

All I know is that it totally works and minimizes the appearance of that black shadow of hair that grows back day after day. It also makes the hair look a little thinner so I don't have to shave every day. It took about 2 weeks to work but I'm in love.

Find it at any drug or grocery store. $4