It's the Most Wonderful Time of The Year....

We hope each of you had a beautiful.flawless.holiday and got everything you wanted - whether it be lazy days lounging in your fave robe and/or pj's, to taking the hordes *we mean mall* by storm, to cashing in on some of those unbelievable deals!

As we have mentioned several times before, retail seasonal changes are the best times to update your beauty arsenal and find great cosmetic deals. If you are anything like us, you can NEVER have too many cosmetic bags and travel cases. The following great bags/sets + unbelievable post-holiday prices = absolute "MUST HAVES".

Clinique's Lash Impact Gift Set is a true "gem"! As if the cute purple cosmetic bag is not reason enough to buy it, the 4 travel sized mascaras will have you "SOLD"! Each of the mascaras will solve just about any lash dilemma: The "High Impact" Mascara volumizes and lengthens; "High Impact Curling" Mascara coaxes lashes to their most upturned look; "Lash Power" Mascara vows to keep lashes looking their best for 24 hours; while "High Definition" Lashes delivers extreme length and definition.

What is better than one gift? Two gifts in one! That is what you get when you purchase Lorac's Double Booked Full Face Collection. Celebrity make-up artist Carol Shaw (Lorac = Carol backwards) took the guesswork out of knowing what shades go best together in this two palette set - making it a cinch to create the perfect day and evening looks. The set contains 16 eyeshadows (8 cool and 8 warm respectively), 2 blushes, 2 lip glosses, 1 lip liner, 1 bronzer, 1 highlighter, 1 face mirror, and Lorac's exclusive dual-sided shadow/liner brush. This book style palette set comes in a faux crocodile case (in silver at Sephora and Black Patent Leather at Lorac.com that can be used a jewelry box or travel case.

Indulge your inner make-up artist with the Limited Edition Smashbox Eye Wish Palette. Create an endless array of "soft & simple" or "smokey eyed vixen" looks with any of the 4 cream eyeliners, 12 eyeshadows, and Photo Finish Lid Primer. Follow the step-by-step techniques in the "Eye Wish Look Book" for perfect party eyes or to find your new signature look.

Credits: Clinique Laboratories, LLC; Lorac Cosmetics, Inc.; Smashbox Cosmetics

Happy "Chrismahanukkwanzakuh"

As we wrap the last of our gifts & take out that last batch of cookies we thought would NEVER finish baking, we want to take a moment to wish you all the best this season brings!

May your "Hanukkah Harry", "St. Nick", or "Kwanzaa Prince C. Pal" deliver your beautiful heart's desire!

xoxo,

B.F.F. Make-Up Artistry

Credits: Image courtesy of snowcrystals.com

Doin' the Dash

If some of you are like us, you may still be shopping for that "perfect gift" for your loved ones or yourself. Here's a run down of some "Deals & Steals" that may make your hunt a little easier:

What better way to find the perfect addition(s) to your make-up treasure chest than to hit up beauty wonderland Sephora! With gift sets galore, we are sure you'll find the perfect gift that's too fab to part with. Don't want to deal with the hordes of last minute shoppers? No problem, check out Sephora.com - orders placed TODAY will arrive to your door by 12/24! As if this deal could not get any sweeter, you get to pick 3 Free Samples with EVERY ORDER!


Giving with a Purpose? Check out the "WISH" collection over at Smashbox.com. $1 of each purchase of a "WISH" gift set will be donated to the Children's Miracle Network, "a non-profit that grants the wish of life to millions of sick or injured kids by providing care and investing in life-saving research." The good folks at Smashbox are also offering free Jumbo Samples and Free Shipping (if you don't mind getting your gift after Christmas).

In addition to DELICIOUS holiday pallets, NARS is offering Free FedEx Shipping on all purchases of $25 or more (sooo very easy to do once you see these pallets). Want more than make-up? Be sure to check-out the heavenly scented candles and Essential Oil-Infused Therapy Soak.

Rounding out our last minute holiday "Deals & Steals" are some great finds for "Under $55" over at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. We are sure you will find that perfect "stocking stuffer" (or cosmetic bag stuffer) in the array of gloss trios, pallets, and cream shadow sets available. You have to hurray though, because the Free 2 Day Shipping offer ENDS TODAY. Running out of wrapping paper? No problem - Bobbi offers complimentary Gift Wrapping & 2 Free Samples.

Credits: Sephora USA, Inc., NARS Cosmetics, Smashbox Cosmetics, Bobbi Brown Professional Cosmetics, Inc.

Down But Not Out

Hello GGF'ers,

We SINCERELY apologize for the massive lag since our last post. Unfortunately, we were hit with a nasty case of swine flu (or H1N1 virus for our more "P.C." readers) followed by some unrelated illnesses. Additionly, some potential opportunities have arisen that (unfortunately) require a great deal of our attention and efforts.

Again, sincere apologies and we PROMISE to resume posting on a more consistent basis later this month. Please bare with us and thank you in advance for your continued support!

XOXO & Stay Well - Beautiful.Flawless.Face (B.F.F.)

Credits: Image courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Think Pink 2.0

As we previously mentioned, we will be posting more "Pink" finds that support breast cancer research and awareness this month. The following are a few that we found at one of our "wonderlands" - Sephora!

Sephora will donate $1 from your purchase of this limited-edition Super Shimmer lip gloss in "Forever Pink" to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). This sheer gloss is ..."packed with holographic shimmer and mega-watt shine".

Looking for a gloss that moisturizes, is not too sticky, and gives lips a boost? Check out Balmshell's lip gloss in "1 in 8". This sheer "milky" pink gloss is perfect for all skin tones. Balmshell's "...unique formula creates a smooth high gloss finish" that gives the "...appearance of full supple lips". Slightly "fruity vanilla" in flavor, "1 in 8" comes in Balmshell's signature story line packaging. The "1 in 8" gloss shade name was chosen to help reinforce the fact that "approximately 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer." The clever packaging symbolically illustrates that breast cancer affects different types of women. As with the Super Shimmer lip gloss in "Forever Pink", Sephora will donate $1 from the purchase of this gloss to the BCRF.

Shiny lips = Sexy. Shiny Face = Not so sexy. Keep your "shine" in check with this refillable powder brush. Made with natural hairs, this brush provides a smooth finish and works especially well with mineral powders. As if it couldn't get any better, the brush is also retractable - so you can take it on-the-go and not worry about damaging the bristles! Sephora will donate $2 from your purchase of this brush to Breast Cancer Awareness.

Credits: Sephora USA, Inc. Balmshell Inc.

Passionately Pink

Having recently battled breast cancer, beauty expert and professional make-up artist Sonia Kashuk decided to support breast cancer research by adding the following limited-edition brush sets and lash curler to her beauty collection, exclusively sold at Target. 15% of the purchase price of each item will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

The chic brush sets are available in two styles:


"Brush Up on Pink" is a 4-piece travel sized brush set that is perfect for purses. The set contains beauty arsenal essentials like a Powder brush and Eye Shadow brush.

The 6-piece "Brushed to Perfection" set not only contains "must haves" like Eye Shadow and Powder brushes but a Lash/Brow groomer (which one can never have too many of). Additionally it comes in a cute "clutch" style case.

Rounding out this collection is the "Curl for a Cause" Eyelash Curler. True to her beauty expert and professional make-up artist roots, Sonia designed this with an extra thick pad to minimize damage to lashes. This lash curler also comes with a drawstring pouch that goes perfectly with the "Brush Up on Pink" case.

Credits: Sonia Kashuk Beauty at Target; Target Corporation (via Target.com).

Think PINK

From the NFL to some of our "fave" cosmetic brands, everyone is going "Pink" this month in honor of it being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Consequently, we will be posting great finds and/or offers, like the ones below, that support this more than worthy cause.

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is offering a limited edition "Pink Ribbon" lip set that consists of a "Blush Pink Creamy Lip Color" (which was Vanity Fair's "Hot Looks Benefiting the Cure" pick) and "Pink Crystal Glitter Lip Balm". Your purchase will go towards Bobbi Brown's $35,000 donation (in North American sales) to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Additionally, you will get "Free Shipping" when purchased online via http://www.bobbiebrowncosmetics.com/ and receive a Pink Ribbon made from recycled materials.

Like Bobbi Brown, Perscriptives will put a portion of your purchase of their limited edition "Pink Ribbon Palette for Cheeks and Eyes" towards their $20,000 donation (in North American sales) to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The Palette features "four eye colors and two cheek colors" that perfectly compliment your fall look.

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc.; Prescriptives, Inc.; The Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Natural Philosophy

Thinking of going "Au Naturale'" with your skincare and beauty products? Check out Philosophy's new Supernatural collection.

Packed with lots of "natural, plant-based moisturizers, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants", the Supernatural collection is fab for your skin! Did we also mention that it is "free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, talc, sulfates, propylene glycol, pegs, and fragrance"?

As if this collection couldn't get better, it comes in shades that are flattering for all skin tones.

Credits: Philosophy Inc.

Color of Hope

Speaking of "Charity Kisses"...September is Ovarian Cancer Month. As a cause "near & dear" to us, we love that L'Oreal Paris has continued its partnership with the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and launched new products for the "Color of Hope" cosmetics collection.



Since 1997, L'Oreal proudly launches new "Color of Hope" products benefitting the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. When you purchase a "Color of Hope" product, L'Oreal will donate $1 to the OCRF and $5 when you purchase a "Color of Hope" cosmetic bag.

In decadent Fall colors, we especially love the "Petals of Promise" Wear Infinite' Eyeshadow Quad and Infallible Never Fail Lipgloss in "Hopeful Plum". Both products provide beautiful, flawless coverage for hours, in just one application!

Credits: 2009 L'Oreal Paris; Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

Charity Kisses

Speaking of "Free Gifts", as we perused the Fall fashion & beauty "bibles", we noticed that Lucky Magazine, Dior, and Lord & Taylor have all teamed up with the charity "Look Good, Feel Better". What could be better than finding a good make-up deal than supporting a good charity!

Look Good, Feel Better is "a free, non-medical, brand-neutral, national public service program created to help individuals with cancer look good, improve their self-esteem, and manage their treatment and recovery with greater confidence."

When you purchase a lipstick or lipgloss from the Dior counter at "L&T", Lucky will donate a portion of the proceeds to Look Good, Feel Better and you get a FREE (our FAVE word) mini-gloss (perfect for your on-the-go cosmetic bag).

Credits: Lucky Magazine (Conde Nast Digital); Look Good, Feel Better; Lord & Taylor; Parfums Christian Dior, Société Anonyme

"Free Gift" Fab

You may have wondered "Hey, what happend? Where'd you go?" due to the lack of new posts. The bad news? We had an unexpected emergency to deal with that required our utmost attention. The good news? "Crisis Averted" - we are back in full swing and sincerely thank you for your loyalty and patience.

On an un-GGF related note, we encourage you all (and your family members) to take your health seriously. Looking good on the outside means nothing if you look a hot mess on the inside!

During our time away, we had plenty of time to get caught up on the respective Fall fashion and beauty "bibles" that have hit the 'stands. We are VERY excited about the deliciously rich fall make-up colors and products!

One of the best ways to keep your beauty arsenal "fresh & current" is to take advantage of the "Free Gift with Purchase" specials and "Clearance" sales retailers run to move summer products out and usher fall products in. No time like the present to get your arsenal up to date!

Of the various "Free Gift with Purchase" specials, we really liked this one from Estee Lauder at Lord & Taylor:

What makes us love this set is the fact that (unlike most), you actually get to pick from select products in the : "Wrinkle Reduction" and "Prevention" product lines (respectively). This set also lets you choose from two eyeshadow pallets that contain eight (as opposed to the usual four) eyeshadows! Most "Free Gifts" simply stick you with a pre-assembled package that contains one or two products you'll actually use.

Credits: Estee Lauder, Inc., Lord & Taylor.

GGF - Red Door Style

We recently received an invite to attend an upcoming event at the newly remodeled Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa - Chevy Chase, MD and couldn't wait to share the news with you! Three words: Beauty, Fun, & Swag...need we say more!?



Event Details

Red Door Beauty Bash (click here for details and to purchase tickets)
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Elizabeth Arden Red Door
6-8pm
Tickets: $25 in advance (Swag Bag included)

The Washington Event Professionals (WEP) Meetup and Red Door Spa invite you to experience the luxury of Elizabeth Arden at their newly remodeled Chevy Chase location. Tour the facility, experience a sampling of Red Door’s Spa Services, enjoy food and beverages, watch hairstyling demonstrations, and- once you’re all dolled up- have your photo taken by professional photographer, McArthur Newell. Your image will be available for download following the event.
Complimentary services: Eye Treatments Makeup application Polish changes

Watch hairstyling demo's by Red Door's talented salon staff and enter for a chance to win a FREE Red Door Treatment! Purchase tickets in advance to get a fabulous FREE SWAG bag!

Sweet and Savory Buffet & Juice Bar courtesy of Ridgewells Catering Wine and Champagne provided by ACE Beverage Photography by McArthur Newell, II of BoldLifestyle Photography

Cupboard Rx

The quest for perfect radiant skin is never ending. Sometimes, a budget just doesn't permit a package of facials or treatments to remedy the situation, so hitting up your cupboard can provide some equally effective solutions that won't bust your budget and will nourish your skin:

Crusty 'Bows: We all have a tendency to lean on our elbows without realizing it, only to discover (usually when getting ready for a date or big event) that they look as if they have been belly crawling across a battlefield. Don't worry, lemon juice and baking soda well get those 'bows back on track. Mix baking soda and lemon juice to create a paste. Rub the paste into your elbows for a "soothing, smoothing, and exfoliating treatment". Let the paste sit for about 10 minutes then rinse. After rinsing, be sure to moisturize - we prefer either Jojoba Oil or Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula. The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a safe and effective skin-lightener and skin smoother. The baking soda acts as a gentle exfoliant. Cocoa Butter also helps lighten the discoloration all that mindless leaning left behind.

Overnight Zit Zapper: How many times has a blemish popped up just as you used the last of your blemish gel? Don't worry, dab a little traditional white toothpaste (non-whitening) "... on the offending spot, and it should be dried up by morning. The toothpaste dehydrates the pimple and absorbs the oil. This remedy works best on pimples that have come to a head. Caution: This remedy may be irritating to sensitive skin."

Image Courtesy of Free-Photo-Gallery.Org

Crusty Lips: Sun exposure can be just as harsh on lips as cold windy days. Stop chewing off that chapped, flaky skin and give lips some lovin' with a homemade lip scrub. Simply wet your index finger with water, dip it into sugar, and rub against your lips. For a moisturizing scrub, wet your finger with milk instead of water. Rinse, blot dry, and apply petroleum jelly or your "fave" lip balm (ours is Smith's Rosebud Salve). Repeat as necessary each day. For "wrinkly" lips, put a brewed caffeinated tea bag between your pouters. The caffeine helps reduce the appearance of "lip wrinkles". As with the lip scrub, be sure to moisturize after rinsing!


Credits: Readers Digest.com.

Tea To The Rescue

While we love a good cup of tea, we also love to use it for quick beauty fixes. Below are our fave uses for tea:



"Puffy Party Eyes" - Tired puffy eyes got you "feeling" that late night? Send those "bags" packing by brewing some caffeinated tea! Brew 2 tea bags (preferably black tea - gives more "pow" than grocery store green tea) for approximately 5 minutes and let them cool (or at least get warm to touch). Squeeze out excess water and apply them to your eyes while warm for a soothing warmth effect. For a "cool and refreshing" treat, put the tea bags in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes before applying to your tired eyes. Cool or warm, apply the moist tea bags to tired puffy eyes for about 15 minutes (flip them over midway through the 15 minutes if you like). Your eyes will thank you by looking good as new. The trick? Caffeine helps naturally reduce puffiness and tighten delicate under eye skin.

"Country Fried Skin" - Sun or razor burn got you feeling as if you were attacked by Killer Bees? Apply cool tea bags (following the steps above) to the affected area for instant relief. While the redness will remain, the sting will be gone in minutes. For larger surfaces, draw a warm bath, adding several tea bags in the process, then get in and soak once the bags have steeped for 5 minutes or so. Tea tannins double as minor burn soothers.

"Stinky Feet" - Have your tootsies turned stinky? Fight back by soaking your feet, at least once a week, in black or green tea (again, we prefer black tea because the average green tea is too weak to make an impact). Tannic acid found in tea acts as a natural odor neutralizer.

In addition to providing the above beauty remedies, tea is great for skin because it is full of "... antioxidants, vitamins E and C and help to fight free radicals that cause pre-mature aging."

Credits: Care2.com and Reader's Digest.com

Zap That Zit

Let's face it, "zits happen" despite our best efforts to prevent them. We have tried several "zit zappers" over the years, and love the following products because they consistently delivered fast results:



Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Gel is absolutely heaven-sent. It packs a powerful "1-2" punch on blemishes and scars because of the Salicylic and Glycolic Acids it contains. As promised, our blemishes were zapped within roughly 8 hours of applying this product (thanks to the Salicylic Acid). Our scars and hyper-pigmentation from previous blemish battles were noticeably faded within our first 4 weeks of consistent use (thanks to the Glycolic Acid). Overall, we saw our best results when applied at night as part of our nightly skincare routine. If you choose to apply it during the day, be sure to use a moisturizer with SPF to prevent any additional hypo or hyper-pigmentation (depending on your skin tone).



Origins Spot Remover® is tiny (packaging wise) but powerful. While it does not help fade scars, this product contains Salicylic Acid, which aggressively attacks blemishes "...to speed healing and reduce redness". We noticed that Origins reformulated this product to include Oregano and Clove Buds to provide a more gentle method of zapping blemishes. The original formula sometimes caused a burning sensation, especially on popped or open pimples and/or over drying/flaking because of the 10% Salicylic Acid. This new formula "...won't provoke tender skin or cause additional sensitivity."

For those who are cringing at the thought of putting an "acid" on your face, relax - Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid are the "good acids" for attacking blemishes, especially for skin of color.

While both products are not large in size (especially true of the Origins Spot Remover®), a little does go a long way. Additionally, we would like to note that these products are designed to be "spot" treatments, and not masks or all over treatments (especially true for the Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Gel because of the Glycolic Acid).

Credits: Neutrogena Corporation; Origins Natural Resources, Inc.

The 10 Minute Face

Contrary to what some may believe, it is possible to "Give Good Face" in just 10 minutes! Some of you recently requested quick and easy ways to add make-up to your daily routine. Below are 6 steps we call "The 10 Minute Face" - a daily make-up routine that even a beauty novice can expertly execute:

1) Cleanse, Tone, and Moisturize your face - toning and moisturizing are key because toning helps reduce rednesss and remove excess oil/dirt that your cleanser may not have removed; moisturizing is key for hydrating and protecting your skin (via SPF) and helping you achieve a youthful look.

2) Skip or Apply a tinted moisturizer, sheer foundation, or powder to your face.

3) Apply mascara - feel free to curl lashes first if necessary.

4) Apply eyeshadow - we recommend soft neutral shades; lightly sweep some under you lower lash line for added "pop" using a small eyeshadow brush or sponge applicator.

5) Apply blush - lightly sweep blush on cheeks, temples, and chin. Adding a touch to the temples and chin helps give warmth to the face.

6) Apply lipstick, lip pencil, and/or lip gloss - turn your lip pencil into a long-lasting lipstick by coloring the upper and lower lips; apply gloss to add a bit of shine.

That's it! You are ready for the world.

Beauty Beauty Everywhere

Hi Everyone -

We are back - we had to be away unexpectedly. In our travels, we came across a beauty wonderland in the most unlikeliest of places - CVS/pharmacy. Move over Sephora and Ulta, Beauty 360 is coming for you.

Packed with "...an edited selection of prestige and niche cosmetics, skincare and fragrance brands in a friendly environment that is simultaneously upscale and accessible." Since each store is staffed with licensed professionals, you can can also get "a unique suite of brand-specific signature services including mini-manicures, express facials, hand massages and make-up application."

GGF Secrets of the Week

1. Shampoo or a hypo-allergenic facial cleanser like Cetaphil (Normal to Oily) works great as a brush cleaner.
   
   
2. Rough brush? Give it a "conditioning treatment" using your hair conditioner. Hey, if it softens & tames your hair, why wouldn't it do the same for a make-up brush?
   
   
3. Stippling Brush = perfect blending. This brush is great for blending wet or dry make-up into the skin, giving a flawless natural finish. *Note: The firmer the brush, the more control you have when applying make-up*
   

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Waterproof' em

In heat and humidity, waterproof is the best way to go for mascara and eyeliner. Waterproof cosmetic products do not smudge or "feather", even on oily eyelids. Applying a primer to your eyelids is also a great way to prevent unwanted eyeshadow creasing and eyeliner "feathering". While there are some great lid primers on the market, one tried and true way to give lids staying power is to apply foundation and powder to them.

We recommend using a waterproof formula mascara and eyeliner (especially during the summer months) for beautiful eyes that last all day.


We use Bobbi Brown's Long Wear Gel Eyeliner to perfect summer looks and keep blushing brides beautiful on their special day. It has excellent staying power against the teariest of eyes and hottest of days. Our favorite shades are "Espresso Ink", "Black Mauve Shimmer Ink", and "Jet Ink". Apparently Elle, In Style and Allure agree because they each gave this product an award.

Not sure about trying a gel? Try New York Color's N.Y.C. Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil. The company boasted that it is "...tear-proof, sweat-proof and swim-proof...perfect for an active lifestyle." We agree (though we took a client's word for it on the swim-proof part)! These pencils provide great long-lasting color. At a price that is under $5, this is also our "Recessionista Pick".

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., N.Y.C. New York Color (Coty US, LLC)

Lashtastic

No look is ever complete without mascara. We use the following to make natural lashes look so fab that everyone wonders if they are a really good set of "falsies":

Sephora's Professional Heated Lash Curler is an absolute must have! While there is something to be said for sticking to the "tried, trusted, and true", traditional lash curlers are traditional lash destroyers. Over time, many a pair of lashes have fallen victim to the snapping and tugging out that comes with using a traditional curler. Sephora's Professional Heated Lash Curler is battery operated (comes with one) and heats up within seconds. For best results, we let ours warm up for 1-2 minutes before using it.

We recommend curling lashes before applying mascara. While many Sales Associates and curler instructions say to do so after applying mascara, doing so creates a hard to clean mess between the grooves of the heated curler. We also do not curl them afterwards because, over time, it can be damaging to lashes. The same is true for curling post-mascara with a traditional curler. If you prefer to stick with a traditional curler, we recommend using the Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler - lashes are safe with this curler because of its rounded rubber pad.


To further enhance lashes, we love to apply Shiseido The Makeup Mascara Base after curling them. This waterproof mascara primer not only conditions lashes, but enhances the effects of mascara (e.g., lengthens and thickens/volumizes) to the point it looks as if one is wearing false lashes. The only "negative" (if you can call it that) is it can be difficult to remove. We have no problems removing it with a waterproof makeup remover like Lancome's Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover.

If you don't want to curl your lashes, we recommend using a mascara that curls like Prescriptives' False Eyelashes Mascara. This mascara is truly the "total package" - it lenghtens, thickens, curls, and conditions lashes.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is any of the Max Factor, Maybelline, and Covergirl mascaras that lengthen and/or volumize lashes. We (and our clients) get great results from products in each of those cosmetic lines.

Credits: Sephora USA, Inc., Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, Shiseido Co., Ltd., Lancome-USA (L'Oreal USA S/D, Inc.), Prescriptives, Inc.

Just Blush

Yesterday we touched on adding a bit of blush to the apples of your cheeks to add a "pop" of color and give that natural "from within" glow. The best shades to use to get this effect are "Rose" (for Fair skin tones) and "Peachish Pink" and/or "Apricot" (for Medium to Darker Skin tones). This is especially true if you are going to forego any type of tinted shimmer or highlighter.

To achieve a natural glow, use a medium to large blush brush to sweep the blush across your cheeks. Starting at the apples, sweep (in one stroke) along your cheekbones. If you are afraid you might create the "80's Streak", try applying the blush in a soft circular motion instead. For added warmth, lightly sweep a little on your temples and chin. You can also apply two shades to get a more custom/ultra natural look.

When applying blush, its better to start off light. You can always add more to build the color. If you want to try applying two shades, you can do so one of two ways:

a) dip your brush in both blushes before applying, then apply more of each shade (or both shades at the same time); or

b) apply one shade followed by the other until you achieve the glow you are going for.

Blushes, like mascaras, are available in a wide range of price points. Some of the best ones can be found at your local drugstore, making it easy to play around and find the shade that is perfect for you.

Our personal faves are: Lancome Blush Subtil, NARS Blush, and Clinique Soft Pressed Powder Blusher. We like these blushes because they: are sheer yet true to color (the color on your face actually looks like the color in the compact); easy to apply (goes on like silk); and produce a long-lasting very natural glow. These blushes look great on all skin types and work well on all skin tones. Since they are sheer and go on very smoothly, it is easy to build color. The Clinique Soft Pressed Powder Blusher is especially good for those with oily skin because it actually helps control shine. This is also a great blush for those with sensitive skin.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is J.A.N.E. Blushing Cheeks. As with its high-end rivals, it is long-lasting, easy to apply, and gives a natural look.

Credits: NARS Cosmetics, Inc., Lancome-USA (L'Oreal USA S/D, Inc.), Clinique Laboratories, LLC, JANE Cosmetics (Jane & Company LLC)

After Glow

Ok get your minds out of the gutter *smiles*...we are talking about rounding out your fresh faced summer look with a "Living My Life Like It's Golden" glow. The best way to achieve (and maintain) that natural inner radiance look is to apply the same shade on your eyes, cheeks, and lips.

We like to use a sheer shimmer like Bobbi Brown's Shimmer Brick Compact (in "Bronze") on eyes and cheeks, and compliment it with a sheer shimmer lip gloss like "Rose Sugar". The Shimmer Brick's subtleness in color and shimmer perfectly highlights the brow bone; makes eyes "POP" when dusted around the inner corners of eyes; and accentuates cheekbones. To get that "from within" glow, we recommend applying rose or apricot colored blush to the apples of your cheeks.

While some of you may be cringing at the idea of putting blush on your eyes and lips, just remember, THERE ARE NO RULES IN MAKE-UP - BE ADVENTUROUS! Here are some other products we recommend using to get that "After Glow":

NARS out did themselves when they created The Multiple. We love it because it is easy to apply, multi-use, long-lasting, and gives great natural color....and did we say EASY TO APPLY? So much so that any make-up or beauty novice can apply it without looking like a "Clown School Drop-Out". We touched on the Blush and Bronzing Duo (which we also love) in yesterday's bronzer post, and were thrilled to see they now offer a Duo for The Multiple (The Multiple Duo).

So what exactly is The Multiple? It is a cream stick that gives a powder finish (a.k.a. "cream-to-powder") that can be applied to eyes, cheeks, and lips! Since it is cream-to-powder, you will definitely need to apply a sheer or clear gloss over lips to add shine and moisture. We do not recommend using The Multiple if you have oily skin or large pores. Despite giving a matte-powder finish, the cream tends to make large pores look bigger, and does not hold up well on oily skin. The Blush and Bronzing Duo, however, works well and looks great on all skin types.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is E.L.F.'s Shimmering Facial Whip. Aside from being fun and easy to use, E.L.F.'s Shimmering Facial Whip is good for all skin types. Available in a variety of colors ("Toasted" received the 2008 Allure Best of Beauty Editor's Choice Award), these little tubes are perfect for adding a hint of shimmer and glow to your eyes, cheeks, and lips. They can also be added to your lotion to get a little "body shimmer". Packed with Vitamins B, C, and E, this lightweight, non-greasy cream is long-lasting and buildable. Our only "Notes of Caution" for this product are:

a) it can give too much shimmer - so start off light and build as needed.
b) it looks better on Fair and Medium skin tones - the shimmer tended to be too much for Darker skin tones in spite of light/sparse application.
c) it has a sweet citrusy scent, but at $1 a pop, we can live with that!

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., NARS Cosmetics, Inc. Eyes.Lips.Face. (JA Cosmetics Corp.)

I'm Melting! I'm Melting! (Part 2)

Now that we've talked powder bronzers, lets talk tinted moisturizers. As with powder bronzers, tinted moisturizers provide sheer coverage - which sometimes disappoints those with acne or a good number of scars/blemishes. We recommend going the tinted moisturizer route for those who: have normal to dry or combination skin; do not need/want a product that provides medium to full coverage; and/or prefer a product that typically provides a more dewey finish.

To manage expectations (especially given the price of some of these products), we do not recommend these products for those who have a lot of scars, blemishes, or imperfections they wish to cover up because tinted moisturizers are designed to only give sheer coverage. Even if a sales person tells you it is "buildable", understand that it probably will not give you the medium to full coverage that a foundation or cream bronzer gives. Regardless of your skin type, we recommend you still use moisturizer before applying a tinted moisturizer. Just because "moisturizer" is in its name does not necessarily mean it is sufficiently hydrating - especially for those with dry skin. Also keep in mind that "Oil Free" does not mean "Oil Control"; so if you have oily skin, you will definitely need to apply a mattifying moisturizer. Here are our picks:



We see why Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 was called a "Best Beauty Buy" by Allure and InStyle magazines, as well as other online blogs and consumer reports. Not only does it have the "good stuff" (e.g., SPF 20 and "...an antioxidant vitamin complex that acts as a free radical scavenger" to protect skin) it comes in a good variety of shades (especially for those with fairer skin tones), is long-lasting, and blends easily. This formula gives a dewy finish, but an "Oil Free" formula is also available for those with oily skin, or want a matte finish.



Next up is Bobbi Brown's SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer - hey, we told you we were huge Bobbi fans. Aside from loving it for the SPF factor, we also love its "staying power" and the natural "glow" it seems to give skin. Like the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, it blends in easily and gives clients a very natural, even tone. This product is ideal for those with normal to dry skin.



For our "Recessionista Pick", we have to go with Wet n Wild again. Their Ultimate Sheer Tinted Moisturizer has SPF 15, gives a good matte finish, and surprisingly delivered on its claim to "adjust to...natural skin tone[s]". Available in four shades, we liked "Sun Kissed" the best on fairer skin clients who wanted that "sun kissed" glow. Unlike our other picks, this product is thicker in texture, resulting in a more medium finish.

Credits: Laura Mercier (Gurwitch Products, L.L.C.), Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., Wet n Wild Beauty USA (Markwins Beauty Products, Inc.).

I'm Melting! I'm Melting!

Hi Gang! We sincerely apologize for the serious gap in posts. Unfortunately, we experienced some pesky technical issues but are back up and running. *whew*

Now that we covered skin care essentials for looking ultra fab, even in the heat and humidity, lets talk summer make-up. As you have probably read (and been told countless times before), "LESS IS MORE" when it comes to looking your summer best. For those of you who are addicted to your foundation be prepared to go into "Foundation Detox". Yes, this REALLY means it is officially time to "Step Awayyy from the Foundation!" Trust us, you will be glad you did (and your pores will too)!

While tanning is a good way to to cover your skin's imperfections, bronzers are a great way to "give good face" without looking cakey, or worse - as if your face is melting. Going the bronzer route also gives you the added perk of no sun damage or premature aging (another result of overexposure to the sun). So take our hand and "step into the LIGHT" - starting with bronzers:

NARS Bronzing Powder is perfect for creating a long lasting matte finish, infusing just the right amount of shimmer with a natural non-orangey bronze glow. This easy to apply powder also "[f]ills in lines and pores for smoother looking skin" and looks great on practically all skin tones. Not sure what blush shade to use for your summer look? Don't worry, they also make these in Blush/Bronzer Duos. As if this product wasn't perfect enough already, we also love that it seems to work well for those with sensitive skin. Some of our sensitive skin ladies raved about it not breaking them out.

For those who want a little more coverage from a powder bronzer, we recommend Sue Devitt's Triple-C Weed Loose Powder. Technically not a bronzer, it comes in a variety of shades that perfectly match just about all skin tones. To use it as a bronzer, we apply shades that are 1 to no more than 3 shades darker than a client's skin tone to create that perfect natural tan. Although silky in texture and matte in finish, this powder will not leave you looking as if you just saw a ghost, or give you a case of "Chalk Face". Like the NARS Bronzing Powder, Sue Devitt's Triple C-Weed Loose Powder will not settle into fine lines, is long-lasting, and was given a thumbs up by some of our sensitive skin ladies. In addition to minimizing shine, it also works well for those with normal to dry skin. This is largely due to the "[p]roven ingredient Nylon-12 [which] ensures long-lasting wearablity and prevents creasing and cracking, remaining completely layerable." We love that it also contains "[s]oothing ingredients" such as "a seaweed sequence that contains valuable minerals, nutrients and vitamins."

Last but not least, we recommend Wet n Wild's Bronzer Compacts (yes, you read correctly) for our fellow "Recessionistas" and anyone looking for a great multi-use budget beauty find. These compacts come in a range of colors for just about all skin tones. Still can't find the perfect shade, no worries, these also make for some great blush and shadow colors. At roughly $3, what's not to like?

Credits: NARS Cosmetics, Inc., Sue Devitt, Inc., Wet n Wild Beauty USA (Markwins Beauty Products, Inc.).

Oil Slick (Part 2)

Now that we have talked cleanser (and touched a bit on toner), let's talk about the all important moisturizer. While it may seem somewhat counterintuitive to moisturize, especially in hot humid weather or if you have oily skin, it is important and a vital part of keeping that dewy, youthful look we love.



Bobbi Brown's Oil Control Lotion with SPF 15 is a perfect "10" for those with oily, normal, or combination skin. Made with both Lavender and Seaweed Extract (respectively), this product helps reduce redness and irritation (Lavender Extract), and soothe skin while absorbing excess oil - giving a matte finish (Seaweed Extract). Lightweight, non-greasy, yet hydrating in formula, it keeps skin looking velvety smooth and relatively shine-free the entire day. Not only does it provide a matte finish without that "white" or "chalky" look most of its rivals have, it also helps give a smooth finish under foundation. We also love that it contains SPF 15. A "Note of Caution" for those who are "anti-fragrance"- it has a slight one, but nothing that we found offensive.

While it does not give a matte finish like the Bobbi Brown Oil Control Lotion with SPF 15, we love Aveeno's Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15 because it is gentle, oil-free, and contains the skin soothing ingredient, Feverfew (Chamomile's cousin). Feverfew helps visibly reduce and manage redness, as well as soothe irritated skin. Like the Bobbi Brown Oil Control Lotion, we love that it contains SPF 15, and also caution that it does contain a light fragrance. Given its gentle formulation, we recommend this moisturizer for all skin types, including those with acne-prone skin.

Because "Green is the new Black", we can not leave Desert Essence's 100% Pure Certified Organic Jojoba Oil off of our list. Unlike synthetic oils, this "pure and natural plant extract" is quickly absorbed into your skin. The reason for this is its molecular structure. Plant derived oils share a molecular structure that is similar to our skin. Therefore, it can easily penetrate and moisturize your skin without an oily residue like synthetic oils (e.g., baby oil or Vaseline). Aside from being plant derived, we also love that this product is multi-purporse. It: helps cleanse and minimize pores; can be used to remove make-up; can be used all over your body; and can be used on your hair as a hot oil treatment, daily scalp moisturizer (a real treat for those with chemically treated/processed hair, dry scalp, or dandruff), and/or added to your conditioner for extra shine. With so many benefits, you are probably thinking this product is too good to be true - it isn't! We also hear from some of our clients with oily skin that it has significantly reduced oiliness. Our only "Note of Caution" is for those with acne-prone skin - you may experience a slight "ugly phase" (increase in whiteheads) upon initial use, but don't worry! Your skin will clear up and look better than ever!

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., Aveeno (Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.), Desert Essence.

Oil Slick

Summer is officially in full swing - and so is the humidity, thanks to the large amount of rain many of us have been experiencing! As a result, some of you have asked us to "dish" on ways to keep that "morning fresh" look when it is 80 degrees with 80% humidity. Step No. 1 to winning the war on oil (and dirt, exhaust, and heaven knows what else, especially if you live in a city like we do) is your cleanser. Your cleanser should deep clean without drying you out or robbing your skin of those all important natural oils it needs to look its best. Without those oils, your skin loses its soft and youthful look - which is NEVER a good look.

Here are some products that have brought us relief from the "Oil Slick" a/k/a our face on such days. In light of our "Recessionista" status, we love that one can be found at our local Target, Walmart, or drugstore for less than $15 (and with a "bonus gift" sometimes) :


Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser was the answer to our prayers - especially the "Normal to Oily" formula. Not only does it deep clean (the proof was in a relatively clean cotton ball post-toner), but leaves your skin feeling clean and residue-free without that dry/cracking feeling. In fact, it does such a good job, we have forgotten to apply moisturizer (*shhhhhh*) some days because our faces still felt "dewy" yet clean. If you have oily skin like we do, your skin will REALLY appreciate the fact that Cetaphil does not contain those "scrubbing beads" or other exfoliants that cause your already overactive sebaceous (oil) glands to act an even bigger fool.

For you acne suffers, we side with the other "Pros", "Celebs", and magazines out there who call Proactiv the "No. 1 Acne System" on the market. Quite frankly, the stuff works better than any others we have tried, and within days of using it. We also found it to be even more effective during the summer months when used with the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. Like Dawn, Cetaphil "cuts" the dirt, oil etc ... that Proactiv's cleanser seems unable to attack. When we use the two, we like to wash with Cetaphil first, then the Proactiv cleanser. The toner is great, as is the Repairing Lotion, although some with sensitive skin have complained of irritation. While we think this product is great overall, we do have a few things we do not like:

1) the "scrubbing beads" in the cleanser - see our earlier point in this post on overactive sebaceous glands.
2) the fact that your skin gets addicted to it (we call it "Face Crack") - if you skip a day (or a step for that matter) your face WILL let you know in the form of blemishes!
3) the fact that the 2.5% benzoyl peroxide can (and HAS in our case) bleached colored wash cloths!

Credits: Cetaphil (Galderma Laboratories, L.P.), Proactiv Solution (Guthy-Renker LLC)