Thursday, May 24, 2012

Don't Fry!!

Tomorrow marks the fourth annual “Don’t Fry Day” hosted by The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention. “Don’t Fry Day” urges everyone to use sun-safety measures in order to have a happy and healthy summer! Try using these products to keep skin safe for the sun! 

Sheer Coverage Continuous Spray Make a splash this summer with Australian Gold Sheer Coverage Continuous Spray.  This Continuous Spray makes sun protection fast and easy with a convenient spray application that combines superior sun protection and a quick dry formula. This moisturizing formula provides a natural, non-shiny smoothness and the innovative InvisiDry™ technology dries and absorbs quickly into skin. Plus, the lotion smells of coconut and banana and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for any beach day.




OBAGI Nu-Derm Sun Shield SPF 50  is formulated with 10.5% zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate to provide extensive sun protection to prevent the aging effects of UVA and UVB rays. It’s not just a top derm recommended SPF, though! With its matte formulation with micro-fine zinc oxide that applies completely sheer, it disappears into your skin for a soft, smooth feel like cashmere so you’ll be highly protected and won’t even feel a thing!  

While sun protection is a must, it’s important to keep skin hydrated after the sun as well. JASON Aloe Vera Gel delivers a unique combination of all natural ingredients to provide after sun comfort and gentle care for sensitive skin with Aloe Vera.
Stay safe this “Fry Day” and all summer long!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

What to Expect When You’re Expecting: Beauty Edition


Celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Molly Sims look beautiful during their pregnancy – but they don’t do it alone. Having unlimited access to the best experts and advice makes navigating the wide world of maternity beauty that much easier. Now you can have some help too with the below guide from the experts at P&G Beauty! It contains easy tips to manage your daily routine from haircare to skincare and everything in-between

How does pregnancy affect hair?

Pregnancy affects every woman’s hair differently. Some may notice that their hair gets thicker while others may find that it gets thinner; some experience oilier hair, while others battle dryness.

Dr. Lefkowicz, Head & Shoulders’ global dermatologist, indicates that these differences can be due to hormone changes or the stress that accompanies pregnancy. To maintain healthy hair, she recommends a well-balanced diet and making sure moms-to-be get all necessary nutrients.

What are the best ways to handle the changes happening on your scalp?

Teca Lewellyn, P&G Beauty Scientist recommends switching your shampoo to account for the changes happening. She says, “If hair tends to get dry, switch to a moisturizing shampoo, or if it becomes curly, try switching to a curls shampoo. Just pay attention to how your hair changes and work with it.”

If you find that hair becomes dry with pregnancy, swap in Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Shampoo and Conditioner  which contains almond oil to help the skin maintain moisture. This system helps to create manageable hair that is protected and ready for your daily styling routine.

What does pregnancy do to skin?

Some women won’t see any noticeable effects during their pregnancy. However, some experience several changes in the skin including dryness, itchiness, acne and stretch marks. P&G Beauty Scientist Rosemarie Osborne indicates that many of these effects will resolve at childbirth. In the meantime, find products that work with your changing skin type. For instance, keep dry legs looking silky smooth with the Venus & Olay Razor. The five blades combined with Olay Moisture Bars help lock-in moisture for less dryness and a smooth shave.

Another common issue that many pregnant women experience is chloasma, also known as the mask of pregnancy. It manifests as muddy brown patches that are typically symmetrically distributed on the face (cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, etc.). If this happens, Dr. Lefkowicz recommends careful sun avoidance and protection since UV exposure will make it worse. To help keep your facial skin looking great from pregnancy and beyond, try Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. This “super cream” helps to restore the volume and shape of the skin’s surface cells smoothing the skin and restoring elasticity.

A baby on the way means limited time to focus on my makeup routine – how can I achieve an effortless look with limited time?


To be ready at a moment’s notice – like that inevitable hospital picture with new baby and family –Celebrity Makeup Artist Jake Bailey recommends looking for products that are multi-taskers.

COVERGIRL + Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation is easy to apply and contains Olay serums that keeps the foundation from drying. You can apply a full face of liquid foundation in less than 30 seconds if you rub a dime size dollop between your palms and blend over your face and neck thoroughly the same way you would apply a lotion. These liquid foundations are perfect because they still allow some of that new mom glow to shine through.

Another time-saving tip is to do your lips and cheeks simultaneously with a sheer lipstick. Look for one just a shade brighter than your natural lip color. First apply to your lips from the tube. If you have a sheer formula there is less need for meticulous application. Just apply and smack...no mirror necessary! Then lightly dot the lipstick into the apples of both cheeks and blend in with your fingertips.

Lastly, curl your lashes and apply a rich black mascara. If you still have time, smudge a tiny bit of cream or liquid shadow into your lash line using your fingertip and voilĂ  – a beautiful, fuss-free look in a fraction of the time.

Always remember, no one expects you to look perfect. Sometimes, that new mom glow and permanent smile on your face is all you need!

Monday, May 07, 2012

REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN® Stain Dissolving Strips



Summer is almost here and I can hardly wait to don my sassy sundresses and strappy sandals!  There is nothing quite like a the thought of new summer fashions to put a smile on this girl's face.  And speaking of smiles, the fabulous folks at Rembrandt recently sent me the REMBRANDT® INTENSESTAIN® Stain Dissolving Strips to try out (and not a moment too soon since I will need a cheery bright smile to wear with all my summer ensembles!)  I've used whitening strips before, but without much luck; however, I have heard good things about the INTENSE STAIN Stain Dissolving Strips so I was anxious to give them a shot.

They are so easy to use!  Simply apply and go about your morning/evening routine!  They dissolve within about 10 minutes, then you just rinse and go. They have a light minty taste and leave your smile looking bright and feeling fresh.  The price is another pleasant surprise - a box of 56 strips is just $22.99!   I have been using them for the past two weeks and I can already see a difference, which is fabulous since the best accessory for your sassy summer wardrobe is a cheery bright smile.
REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN® Stain Dissolving Strips dissolve on your teeth in minutes to easily remove tough stains caused by coffee and wine.  Get a whiter smile in 2 weeks.  Visit www.rembrandtboutique.com to learn more or purchase REMBRANDT® products. 

REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN® Stain Dissolving Strips & REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN® toothpaste together:

REMBRANDT® INTENSE STAIN® platform uses 3x Triple Action ActiShield™ technology to:
·         Remove: helps gently remove tough stains like coffee, red wine and tea
·         Repel: works like an invisible shield to help repel future stains
·         Restore: strengthens the enamel to help prevent daily acid wear

Visit www.rembrandtboutique.com to learn more or purchase REMBRANDT® products.  


Compensation and product was provided by REMBRANDT® via Glam Media to facilitate my review. Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies is a sponsor of Glam.com. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of REMBRANDT® or Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies

Thursday, May 03, 2012

Style You Can Count On Featuring Kate Middleton



When I think of style there are a few women who immediately come to mind:  Audrey Hepburn for her classic gamine style and Grace Kelly for her regal femininity.  Jackie Kennedy Onassis for her understated glamour and  Katharine Hepburn for her fearless efforts in fashion trailblazing (enter menswear styling!) However, when I think of current fashion icons I immediately think of the ever glamorous Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, or as she is more affectionately known by the media: Kate Middleton.

Ever since she came onto the media scene back in 2003 or thereabouts she has been making fashion headlines.  Granted, her early style was very casual and collegiate, which is as it should be since she was a college student at the time!  Her style has evolved over the years, and while it is always very chic and regally charming, she does add her own personal kick to the mix with great accessories like platform skyscrapers,  fun scarves and her signature knee-high boots.

One trend that is as fave with the Duchess is the lovely look of lace.  Chic and stylish in a knee length navy lace overlay, elegant and refined in floor length lace with a plunging neckline, or flirty and feminine in a lacy mini topped with an edgy blazer, Kate can definitely rock lace!



Check out our take on the navy knee length look:

Chic and elegant floor length lace with regal accessories: 

Biker-chic lace with peplum blazer and skyhigh suede stilettos:

And while Kate's fashion style is always spot on, her beauty style is even more envied.  She often wears her shining brunette hair long, loose and curly - so effortlessly chic!  Her makeup style is simple and understated, making the most of her best features - her shining eyes and gorgeous smile.  All in all, the Duchess of Cambridge is one of my favorite style icons! 






We think its tremendous popularity is proof that the 2012 Corolla offers the ideal blend of comfort, value and safety.  In it, you'll find a surprising number of high-end features, like available Display Audio system.  It offers remarkable performance and fuel efficiency, plus an impressive list of standard safety features.   Factor in its legendary reliability, and it's even more apparent that Corolla is the smart choice.

Compensation was provided by TOYOTA via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of TOYOTA.



Tuesday, May 01, 2012

Find Your Bliss With Neutrogena Naturals!

About a week ago I received a package from the fabulous folks at Neutrogena  (one of the wonderful perks of my job!)  Inside this package was a fantastic selection of Neutrogena Naturals products all tucked into a sweet canvas tote bag:  the Eco-Friendly Bliss Bag.  I was absolutely thrilled to receive this goody bag because after spending the past two months in a surgical boot with a 6-inch pin in my foot,  I desperately needed to find my bliss!  


Inside the Eco-Friendly Bliss Bag I found the following Neutrogena Naturals products:

  • Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub
  • Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser
  • Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer
  • Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream
  • Neutrogena Naturals Lip Balm
  • Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing & Makeup Remover
  • Neutrogena Naturals Face and Body Bar




There was also a selection of other eco-friendly items including a Bobble Water Bottle, a Natural Luffa Sponge (grown right here in sunny California!), and a Crate & Barrel Organic Bamboo Tool set.  Don't you just love the fact that there are so many options out there for those of us who want to do our part to help the environment?  

I love eco-friendly products, especially those that I put on my skin!  No one wants to slather chemicals all over their sensitive skin, right? Which is why I was so excited to try this new line of products from Neutrogena.

Neutrogena set out to create a skincare line using only what was essential, nothing more, nothing less.  The products are formulated without harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.  Just what is essential to work on your skin.   Natural plant derived ingredients are used where possible and the average of the skincare line is 94% natural.  The remaining ingredients are chosen from a comprehensive array of safe and pure ingredients.


Neutrogena also lists the ingredients on the back of each of their skincare items, along with the source for the ingredient, whether it's a vegetable, coconut or bionutrient rich Willowbark. They also call out exactly what kind of packaging is used - currently 50% post consumer recycled content in the bottles and 100% recycled paper where possible.  They are also doing their best to increase the amount of recycled content used and continually searching for ways to continually improve.

Neutrogena also partners with The Nature Conservancy, working to protect natural sources of clean water for people, plants and animals, and the Forest Stewardship Council, who promotes the responsible management of the world's forests. 

I have been using all of these Neutrogena Naturals products for the past few weeks and wanted to share a few of my favorites with you:

Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer:  This light citrus-scented daily moisturizer is loaded with vitamins B, C, E and antioxidant rich omega bionutrients and is clinically proven to boost skin's defense against dullness and roughness.  I love the way it glides on so smoothly and absorbs instantly without feeling oily or heavy.  After the first week I noticed that the skin at the base of my neck and around my jawline was much smoother - these are the areas that tend to suffer from dry winter weather the most - so I am especially pleased.

Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream:  I have extremely dry skin, especially around the season changes, and I am always on the lookout for a night cream that will give my skin the protection and moisture that it needs without feeling greasy and heavy, which is exactly what  this product does!  This exquisite night cream is thick and rich, but smooths onto skin and absorbs so quickly.  No need to worry about sliding off your pillow girls! Come morning, your skin will feel nourished, enriched and pampered.  I love it!

Neutrogena Lip Balm:  I am a bit of a lip balm aficionado.  I am always on the lookout for the perfect lip balm and probably have a dozen different brands lurking around my apartment and at the bottom of various handbags.  After using the Neutrogena Lip Balm for two days I went to my local drug store and bought four more tubes!  Now I have one in my nightstand, one in my kitchen drawer, one in my car, one in my handbag and one in my desk drawer.  This lip balm glides on smoothly and is fortified with Vitamin E to protect and soothe lips. It stays on without feeling gloppy and gives my lips that little kiss of moisture that they so need in summer weather.  The only thing that would be more perfect is if it had SPF - which I am hoping the good folks at Neutrogena are working on!


Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing & Makeup Remover:  I have never been a big on makeup remover.  In fact, I have been known to use baby wipes to remove my makeup.  (I know, I know - BAD GIRL!) So I was interested to try the Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing & Makeup Remover.  Guess what?  It's fabulous!  Not only does it gently remove makeup without any harshness or abrasion, but it cleanses the skin as well, leaving it feeling clean yet hydrated.  It is especially formulated for use around the eye area, so you can gently cleanse away makeup without scrubbing and pulling at the tender skin surrounding your eyes.


All in all I am very impressed with the Neutrogena Naturals product line.  I love that they are taking it to the next level in pure natural skincare, and that they are doing their part to help the planet.  Which is something we can all do!  Whether it is recycling our plastic, glass, metal and cardboard or conserving water while showering - small steps can add up to big results!  What are you doing to go green?



NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer is a daily lotion that replenishes essential skin nutrients while providing continuous moisture throughout the day for healthier, younger-looking skin.  It contains no harsh chemical sulfates,  - parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream replenishes essential skin nutrients and is fortified with vitamins B, C, E and anti-oxidant omega bionutrients. This nourishing cream is clinically proven to boost skin’s defense against dullness and roughness, leaving it  naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking today and in the future.  It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

Compensation was provided by Neutrogena via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Neutrogena


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Join the Fight!


Mally Roncal, celebrity makeup artist and president of Mally Beauty, has one nemesis— translucent powder! It does everything it’s not supposed to—highlights lines and wrinkles, dulls your complexion and leaves you looking lackluster. That’s why she has declared a war against translucent powder and developed a life-changing alternative: Face Defender. A high-performance, completely clear antidote to old-fashioned powder, the revolutionary formula has inspired legions of women to throw away their old compacts and change the way they apply makeup forever. 


As the leader of the war on powder, Mally is issuing a battle cry, encouraging women to take a pledge to “Fight the Powder.” We invite you to join the crusade against translucent powder. Beginning early May, you can take the “Fight The Powder” pledge on Mally Beauty’s Facebook page.






And, if you are going to be in the New York City-area on Tuesday, May 8th, Mally and her “Fight the Powder” squad are encouraging women to take a stand against translucent powder by trading in their old compact for Face Defender. The event is taking place outside of Grand Central Terminal, where Mally and her beauty team will encourage commuters to participate in a makeup trade-up. The first 50 women to take the pledge will receive Mally’s Face Defender. 


What: Fight the Powder with the Mally Beauty Team


When: Tuesday, May 8, 2012: Rush Hour


6:30 am – 9:30 am


4:00 pm – 7:00 pm


*Rain Date: Tuesday, June 19, 2012






Where: Outside of Grand Central Terminal

Monday, April 16, 2012

Spring Cleaning Beauty Revamp

1.       Try multi-purpose products to save room in your closet and time in your beauty routine.
a.       COVERGIRL Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation combines the best in COVERGIRL and Olay providing luminous coverage to create youthful, radiant skin. One pump instantly covers fine lines, discolorations and wrinkles while just one bottle helps to improve skin tone over time.


2.       Multi-purpose doesn’t just mean two-in-one. Consider alternative uses for your favorites.
a.       Secret Outlast – this year’s newest product from trusted brand Secret – offers dual action odor protection, keeping your underarms dry for up to 48 hours! Designed to work in even the most hot, humid and stressful situations, this product takes you with ease from spring cleaning to the summer beaches

b.      Dropped your favorite brush on a not so clean floor? Pull out the hand sanitizer and give the brush a good dousing. Hand sanitizer is meant to evaporate fast and will disinfect your brush in the process. 

3.       Use products that work at the vanity and on-the-go

a.       Olay 2-in-1 Daily Facial Cloths deliver powerful cleansing in one easy step. These purse-sized wipes contain soap-free cleansers to remove dirt, oil and makeup while still conditioning skin with essential Olay moisture. Take these cloths to the beach for easy removal of waxy sunscreen and self-tanners on hands and skin.

4.       Use floral scents to embrace warmer weather and feel fun and fresh. Strong and spicier scents synonymous with chillier temperatures can magnify on skin in warmer weather. Instead of going for another perfume this summer, utilize a floral or tropical scented body lotion and clean, fresh smelling shampoo and conditioner. The softer fragrance will keep you feeling breezy and clean.
a.       Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner’s pink lily and Asian silk fusion scent will instantly make you feel ready for beautiful spring weather. In addition to great scent, the shampoo works to smooth hair while the conditioner moisturizes to leave hair hydrated and silky.

b.      Deep condition in the summertime while you play outdoors! When heading outdoors apply conditioner to damp hair midway through to the ends. Then Braid hair or pin it close to head. Leave it in your hair for a sunny conditioning treatment and then rinse at night for salon-worthy hair.
5.       Find a method of organization that works for you
a.       Clear, accessible bins are a great way to store makeup and skincare items so that you’re can keep track of what you have while still being efficient with space.
b.      Plastic baggies can also be a cheap and easy storage saver for smaller items and when on the go.

Tuesday, April 03, 2012

Dr. Murad’s 10 Steps to Radiance


Radiance is more than looking your best; it is feeling your best. Because the health of the whole body is reflected in the health and appearance of the skin, Howard Murad, M.D., FAAD, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at UCLA and founder of Murad, Inc recommends an Inclusive Health approach to skincare that aides the needs of the spirit, skin and body through internal care (proper nutrition and supplementation), topical care (appropriate skin care regimens and professional services) and focus on Sense of Self (managing stress and maintaining a healthy connection to yourself and your surroundings).

Dr. Murad shares his recommendations that can naturally help you and your skin look and feel more radiant than ever with a 10-step path to the new radiant you.

1.     Get More Sleep
Sleep enables the body to reverse everyday free radical damage by replenishing energy, building new cells and repairing connective tissue. Because sleep is an ideal time for cellular renewal and overall repair for the skin and other organs, poor sleep is quite apparent in the complexion.

2.     Think of Facials as a Necessity, Not a Luxury
Revitalizing skin, relaxing the mind, and improving your skin’s appearance are all benefits of a good facial. Facials feed the skin with nutrients that provide a boost to the complexion resulting in a radiant look.

3.     Begin an Exercise Routine
Take up an activity that you enjoy and will stick with. Exercising regularly nourishes the skin with oxygen while sweating flushes out toxins.

4.     You Are What You Eat
Food fuels your body and mind and when eating poor foods, it appears on your skin. Try eating foods that are rich in anti-oxidants, like pomegranates, which help fight free-radical damage. 

5.     Leave Work at Work
Make time for family, meeting up with friends, or just doing what you enjoy; your mental, physical and emotional health will improve and be reflected on your skin.

6.     Wash, Treat and Moisturize Day and Night
Your face needs TLC too! Just like your dentist says to brush in the morning and night, you should also wash your face to rid your skin and pores from the dirt, oil and free radical damage that occurs whether awake or asleep.

7.     Use SPF Everyday
Protect your skin and keep your complexion looking its best by using sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection every day to avoid damaging skin.

8.     Include Supplements In Your Diet
Take daily dietary supplements to provide your body with all the nutrients it needs to function and provide radiance to your skin.

9.     Don’t Stress!
Participating in something you’re passionate about reduces stress, promotes positive self reflection and connects people based on similar interests. Engaging in these activities each day will help fight the feelings of isolation that are growing more prevalent in today’s fast-paced society.

10.  Nurture Your Skin
Take the time a couple times a week to nurture your skin with a mask or peel, such as our new Intensive-C Radiance Peel. Look for one that has plenty of antioxidants to combat free radicals. This is a great way to maintain the skin’s health in between facial treatments and boost your weekly skincare routine.

Intensive-C® Radiance Peel is available on Murad.com and at the Murad Inclusive Health Spa®. It will be Available May 2012 at Sephora, Ulta and leading salon and spa locations nationwide. $49.50 for 1.7 FL. OZ.