August Favorites!

August, you've come and gone, but I couldn't ignore the favorites I discovered and continue to love throughout the month.

First and foremost: My feet. Let's just say my heels are pretty much in bad shape all the time. Scratchy, scaly, rough heels are not attracting anyone. But using the Amope Pedi Perfect has made a huge difference. Used on dry skin, the rotating file grinds down the tough skin, leaving it smooth and ready for lotion. It's not a one and done deal, but with regular use in between pedicures, you'll be able to keep your feet looking nice and soft. It's a little pricey, but if you think about how often you'll use it, it's worth the cost. You can find it anywhere from the grocery store to the drug store to probably even drugstore.com or Ulta.

Wrinkles - be gone! I've been lucky to not have many wrinkles, and I believe it's due to the fact that I moisturize and use sunscreen daily. However, Caudalie's Anti-wrinkle Eye and Lip Cream is a crazy duo that I really love. It's a great moisturizer, and is safe for the tender skin around the eyes and the mouth. It's not greasy - it melts into skin instantly, offering moisturizing benefits and skin plumping ingredients to keep eyes and lips looking youthful. Because let's be honest, the crows feet and lip lines are a dead giveaway we're not 19 anymore! Available at Sephora.

 Last but not least, I've found a line of makeup brushes that are reasonably priced, and work really well. They're from the Drew Barrymore collection, FLOWER. I'm obsessed with the powder brush. It's soft, picks up powder easily and places it evenly on the face. I can't vouch for the longevity of the brush, but the prices are so reasonable, even if you only get 6 months to a year out of it, you're in good shape. It's definitely worth checking out. I think it's important to save where you can, so you can splurge on that one item you can't live without! The FLOWER line is available exclusively at Wal-Mart.

That's all I've got for August favorites. Let me know if there's anything else you're dying to hear about. Happy to share and love to hear your comments.

xoxo,
Brett

Celebrity Makeup Artist Shares Drugstore Must Haves

When buying makeup and skincare at the drugstore, it is ideal to know when to splurge and when to save. Believe it or not, drugstores carry “cosmetic gems” and “skincare saviors,” according to Tomy Rivero, celebrity makeup artist. Tomy shares his favorite drugstore must haves that won’t break the bank:

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eye Liner
A great long lasting eye liner with an extra thin tip for a clean and sleek application and look, with a felt tip which allows for easy application, and won't dull. Ideal for an everyday look or a dramatic cat eye for a night out.

ELF Studio Complexion Brush
Use this versatile brush with wet or dry powders or foundations. It works perfectly with any loose setting powder to create a flawless look

Neutrogena Night Calming Makeup Remover
These cleansing pads remove makeup easily and are perfect for sensitive eyes and skin.The night calming formula leaves skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Whether removing a full face of makeup or touching up a smudge, these removers are great.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer
This face lotion is great for evening skin tone and eliminating dark spots. The SPF 15 protects skin all day long. The non oily lotion leaves skin ready for any makeup application

 

What are some of your coveted drugstore finds?

Rivero’s talents have been credited on the pages of coveted magazines, feature films and television as well as collaborations with New York Fashion Week.  Rivero has worked extensively with elite models including Dorota Kollova (Prada) and Arlenis Soso (Lancome).  Highly skilled in all areas of makeup, including hi def, runway, print, red carpet and body makeup, Rivero also works with celebrity clientele including Barbara Corcoran from NBC’s hit show, Shark Tank and Peter Dinklage from Game of Thrones.

My Latest Labor of Love

I'm excited to share with you all my latest labor of love: my column in Atlanta Social Season Magazine (www.seasonmagazine.com). This spread is all about creating that shimmery sun goddess look for these long, warm days.

Also, it's important to protect your hair and skin, so they will be luminous from being healthy!

Here's a direct link to my spread online: Shimmery Summer I hope you enjoy it!

June Favorites

It's true! I'm actually compiling my June favorites on time! Are you as excited as I am? I'm pretty excited. 

First up is a new dry shampoo that I have really been enjoying - Alterna's Bamboo Style Cleanse Extend Dry Shampoo (it comes in both Lemon Sugar and Bamboo Leaf - both smell great). I love this brand of dry shampoo because it's practically translucent. Unless you go WAY overboard on it, you will not get that white cast that us dark headed beauties run into much of the time. So, that's a definitely plus. It also helps with some body, but doesn't feel unnatural as I've noticed with some other brands. You can find this baby at Sephora.

Next up - GlamGlow's Bright Mud 3-minute eye treatment. Please and thank you. Whether you've pulled an all nighter, partied too hard, had an ugly crying session -it doesn't matter. This 3 minute treatment will calm those nasty puffy under eyes and leave you feeling back to normal. And they're small enough to carry with you, in case you need an emergency treatment! Just pat on, wait 3 minutes and gently wipe off. So easy. What did I do before these? Also available at Sephora. I've always been pretty good at protecting my face from too much sun. I guess that's party of the reason that at 37 (soon to be 38), people mistake me for being much, much younger. A blessing and a curse - well, more of a blessing now.

Anyway, Skinceuticals Physical Matte SPF 50 cream is great. It helps keep your oil at bay (although, you will still sweat, gotta mention that!) and protects skin at SPF 50! Win-win!

You can wear this alone (it's slightly tinted) or under your usual makeup. Definitely something to consider this summer. Available at skinceuticals.com
 

 I'm in love with the new L'Oreal Le Matte Lipstick Pens. They have incredible pigmentation, a little moisture, a matte finish and while they may not be touted as "long wearing", I think they do pretty well in that area, too. My favorite color is the bright pink. It makes me feel
confident and sassy, and what could be wrong with that??

These are available now that it's July! I'd stock up! Check your local drugstore  or other big box store that carries cosmetics.

That's all I've got for my June favorites. I hope you enjoyed hearing what I'm loving right now, and perhaps are inspired to try one or more of these products yourself!

February Favorites

Hey everyone! It's time for February Favorites. I've got some tried and true, plus some brand new favorites for you to check out!

1. The Aveda Institute 
I love this place. You get great service from cut to color to highlights in a professional space, but performed by students either graduating in 6 months (mid-level) or 3 months (master level). The prices are unbelievable and they really listen to what you're looking to do and make the magic happen. Of course, educators check-in and make sure things are running smoothly, but I've yet to encounter a problem.I was very happy with the price and the service. Definitely recommend!

2. AdvoCare SYS Day
I love a good day cream. One that hydrates without making skin feel greasy, has ingredients that are good for the skin, and can help keep wrinkles at bay. AdvoCare's SYS Day lives up to it's name Supplement Your Skin. Get yours here.

3. Nivea's In-Shower Moisturizer
Ok, I was a little skeptical at first. I have super dry skin in the winter. Despite all my efforts to moisturize, I always ended up disappointed. But when I saw the commercial for this new product, I had to hunt it down. They have 3 versions, and I went ahead and got the one for very dry skin. After you cleanse your body, you rub this on the areas you want extra moisture (for me, arms and legs) and then rinse off, pat dry and go. It works! I could definitely tell the day of the shower, but also the next day. I love it. I think it will be great in the warmer months, too. You can find it in the lotion aisle.

That's it for now, but don't forget I'll have a great eco-beauty spread in the next issue of Atlanta Social Season - Spring issue!

Travel Lightly

Traveling can be a pain these days with so many rules to follow from the TSA. And let's not forget how many airlines charge you for checking even your first bag. How awful is it to have to check a bag at the last minute or have to throw one of your favorite products out? If you're like me, there's at least one splurge item in your beauty routine and it would hurt to have to leave it behind.


I've got some easy tips for making your travel light and hassle free.

First, I started with the Makeup Matte. It's a great holder for brushes and other things like blushes, lipsticks and shadows. It rolls up and is easily thrown into your carry on bag.

Next, is shampoo and conditioner. But Brett, you say, the hotels generally have shampoo and conditioner in the rooms. And while that's true, I would rather have my own and have enough for my long hair. So I took a small travel bottle, poured my shampoo into it and gave it a label. I didn't have another bottle for conditioner, but I had lots of samples of good conditioners that I could make good use of. (Same goes for the LA Fresh makeup remover pads in the first image.)

Foundation is an easy one, because most bottles fall within the 3-4 oz allowance for carry on. I guess I'm just taking the moment to let you know how much I love Make Up For Ever's HD Foundation. (Did you know you can go to Sephora and they can match your skin with a foundation using a scanner? Pretty awesome technology).

Again, I know they have body wash and lotion, but I like the scents I use at home. So, by pulling from my travel sizes, I can continue to smell like myself no matter where I go. (Sorry guys, but this Dark Kiss from Bath & Body Works has been discontinued. Bummer.)

I know Molton Brown makes some small sizes as well and they smell delicious and luxurious. It's all about what you're used to or comfortable with.

And of course I have to brag on my all-time favorite brand of moisturizer and serum: AHAVA. The Time to Hydrate gel moisturizer is fantastic. It hydrates just enough without leaving your face all greasy. And the Dead Sea Osmotor serum has kept my face looking wrinkle free and smooth. I adore both and they're both TSA approved to go in my carry on. YAY!

 

Last, but not least, I need a sunscreen that will pass, and Goldfaden's Sun Visor is the perfect solution. It has a non aerosol spray and it's  the perfect size. (and SPF 30)
 

Don't forget to put all your liquids into a quart-sized Ziplock bag for easy inspection! And enjoy that trip!

Clarisonic: Hot Offer For Great Skin!

Clarisonic. You've heard of it, I'm sure. But maybe you're not sure what the benefits are - I mean, let's face it, we've been cleaning our face with soap, water and washcloth for years. And that seems to be working OK, doesn't it? Yeah, I thought so, too. And then I was introduced to the Clarisonic. I was a changed woman. (and you can be, too!)

The Clarisonic is a sonic skin cleaning system that removes makeup, pollution and helps you fight the aging process. How much better is it than washing manually? Six times! That's pretty amazing.

However, what sealed the deal for me is the way my face felt after just the first use. It was clean, it was soft, and my serum and moisturizer sunk in so much faster. It was a revelation!

Now that I've been using the Clarisonic for over a month, my skin just keep getting better. Less breakouts (yes, I have adult acne, especially during THAT time of the month), less dry patches (OK maybe no dry patches anymore), which has resulted in a much nicer appearance both with and without makeup. And at 36, it's nice to be able to go without makeup and not feel like a hot mess.

You can get the Clarisonic at many retailers, but beauty.com is running a coupon to save you $15 of a $75 purchase. There are several models of Clarisonic, but I believe the $99 Mia, is great and is what I use.

If you've been on the fence about trying the Clarisonic out, now is a great way to check it out at a less expensive price.

Do you have a Clarisonic? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences with it!

Spring Break - Protect your Skin

It's finally here! Spring - and with it comes warmer temperatures and for many of you, spring break! Treat your skin with care and protect it from the damaging rays of the sun with some of the newest and best products on the market today.

Kid Friendly
I know as a kid I hated it when I had to put on sunscreen - that thick white lotion took forever to skin into my skin and I wanted to get back into the water or the sun. Kids today have so many new and wonderful options that won't put them on the sidelines for long.

These Hello Kitty sunscreen sprays are perfect for kids. They offer 30 or 50 SPF and come in fun scents like Pineapple and Kiwi - no kid will be able to resist. Even wiggle worms will be covered in no time with a few sprays that work on both dry and wet skin.
 
Face Friendly
Your pretty face needs protection, but please don't slather body sunscreens on it. Use something specifically for the face, like La Roche-Posay's Anthelios 30. It's a cooling water-lotion that will protect and refresh skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Because let's face it, a breakout is never wanted! I love this because it melts into skin almost immediately, leaving no residue behind.


A Little Bronzing
Unless you've been tanning all winter (and really, is that good for your skin?) your legs might be a little pasty for spring break. No worries. Australian Gold offers sunscreen (15-30SPF) with bronzer to protect and add a hint of color so you won't blind everyone when you step out into the sun for the first time this year. Bonus: It smells great, too.


After Sun
Mistakes happen. Did you get a little too much sun? Even if skin just feels tight and itchy, Alba Bontanica's Very Emollient After Sun Lotion will soothe, hydrate and replenish skin. Made from 85% aloe vera and no parabens, phthalates or synthetic fragrances, you can feel good about putting this on anyone in the family.

February Favorites

I've been rekindling my love with some forgotten products and here they are:

1. Clean & Clear Oil-Free Shine Control Moisturizer
This is a great light moisturizer for the day that helps keep oil slicks away. I see this becoming my daily go-to product over the next few months as it warms up. I still use a heavier moisturizer at night and my day and night serums, but this is an excellent day lotion.

2. Londontown Lakur nail color in Thames from the Eye
I've been wearing this on my toes for a while now. I love the color. It's unique and sophisticated and fun - plus it reminds me of ocean water which has been nice during the crazy weather we've been having. But, the best thing about this polish it its staying power. It really lasts! I will be looking into getting some additional colors once my obsession with this turquoise color fades.

3. Ahava Dead Sea Osmoter™Concentrate
This is my holy grail serum. I'm sure I've mentioned it before, but it bears repeating. It's amazing. So light and silky feeling, but it really helps hold moisture in my skin. I can tell if I forget to use it. It's perfect to use day and night along with your preferred day and night cream. It lasts a long time - I've been using mine for about 2 months now and have not had to replace it yet. So, while it's a bit pricey (about $60) - it's worth it because it will last you at least a couple of months, bringing the price down considerably each month.

Giveaway! Natural/Organic Skin Care

GIVEAWAY TIME!

I've got a treat for you! Since we began talking about natural and organic skin care and cosmetics products, you have shared with me that you're interested in taking a more natural approach to skin - and I couldn't agree more. While Earth month is still a ways away, we can celebrate now!

The great people from Michael Todd True Organics and Aurora DeJuliis M.D. European Medical Spa came to me with a generous offer - a giveaway of four products for one of my readers valued at approximately $150! I'm so excited to share this with you!

If you are interested in easing in to a more natural or organic line with your skin care regimen, this is a great time to try out some new products. I have tried them both and they're great. One of my favorite products is the Michael Todd Enzyme Scrub - it has a fresh citrus fragrance and works effectively without being too harsh, just like all of these products.

Here's a peek at what could be included in your prize:


The Charcoal Detox Cleanser is a detoxifying facial cleanser is particularly effective in caring for blemished and oily skin types as well as combination and normal skin. The creamy vegan cleanser is infused with Activated Charcoal to deeply clean pores of toxins and bacteria for smoother clearer skin. Activated Charcoal is an amazingly absorbent substance, widely known for its ability to effectively cleanse the skin, unclog pores, and remove deeper impurities and dead skin cells. Sulfate free "no tears" formula does not irritate eyes. $24.00

The Liposome Antioxidant Moisturizer is a soothing cream moisturizer made with organic ingredients and liposomes to transport antioxidants deep into the skin to restore and maintain healthy skin, counteract sun damage and fight premature skin aging and wrinkles. $24.00


From puffy skin to dark circles under your eyes, your skin needs to recover, rejuvenate and refresh.  Get some beauty sleep with Aurora DeJuliis, MD’s Retinol Night Crème, a unique encapsulated retinol delivery system that provides maximum release with reduced irritation typically associated with retinoids. Retinol diminishes the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and cell regeneration, which enhances skin tone and texture and reduces the appearance of discolorations, age spots, and occasional blemishes.  $59.00

Given how much we enjoy our daily dose of caffeine via a steaming-hot cup of tea, it’s only natural that we’d gravitate towards a skincare regimen with the same awakening effect.   Boasting a range of skincare benefits, Aurora DeJuliis, MD’s Chamomile Cleanser is quickly becoming a beauty bag staple.  Infused with chamomile, vitamins A and E, this gentle cleanser provides moisture absorption and retention properties as well as its antioxidant quality.  Harsh environmental conditions with pollutants or irritated skin conditions can be soothed by this rebalancing cleanser.  $35.00



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December Favorites - A List from Mimi

Mimi at 98

Yikes! I got really off track with my blog after my grandmother Mimi passed. It was a sad time for our family, as we had collectively decided Mimi would live forever. It just wasn't meant to be.

In honor of her, I will dedicate my December favorites to the things that Mimi taught me about beauty and skin care.

1. Drink Water
Yep, good ol' H2O does wonders for your skin. Keeps it hydrated, fends off wrinkles - all the things we want. How much water? Mimi always said drink 8 glasses a day.

Her skin looked great into her 90's, so how can I argue with that? There's nothing better than a dewy, fresh complexion, and hydration is the way to get there.

She would say to drink it plain,but I might need to add a squeeze of citrus juice in it. 

2. Wear SPF
Protect that delicate skin with an SPF. I cannot recall how many times Mimi would "get on me" about using sunscreen. So many times! I usually listened, but not all the time, which now I wish I had! Today it's easier than ever to include in your daily routine. Many moisturizers, foundations and other products made specifically for the face contain SPF, so it's not necessary to add an extra step.  The one I'm using now is Dr. Lewinn's BB Cream. It contains an SPF 15. If you have very fair skin, you might want to use a higher SPF.

3. Moisturize
Mimi always said she used Pond's on her skin every night before bed. While Pond's may be a little old school, her message was clear. Keep skin moisturized overnight. A night cream is a great way to do this - a night cream called a "sleeping mask" just sounds better. Good thing it works. Peter Thomas Roth's Camu Camu Sleeping Mask is packed full of Vitamin C and other nutrients to replenish your skin while you snooze. Just apply a thin layer before bedtime and rinse off in the morning. No worries, it's not greasy at all.

4. Add Some Color
Everyone looks healthier, therefore prettier in a little color. Mimi always wore jewel-toned tops and for special occasions, she'd add a bit of Revlon's Fire and Ice lipstick. It always made her look vibrant and put together. A little lipstick goes a long way. You don't have to go dramatic and choose red - any pink or peach shade you like will do. I've been enjoying the Palladio lip liner in Rockin' Red, topped with a gloss. It always gives me a little perk and polishes off my look.


I hope these tips prove useful in your life, as they were in my Mimi's and the rest of our family. Here's to the start of some great new habits and a wonderful 2014!

Meaningful Beauty

Ok let's face it, ladies. We should all be so fortunate to look like Cindy Crawford - my lord, does that woman ever age?? It just doesn't seem fair to the rest of us, does it?

Well, when a box of her line of skincare Meaningful Beauty arrived at my doorstep to review, I must confess, I sorta snubbed my nose at it at first. After all the celebrities who have smacked their name on label for this or that, I just wasn't sold.

So the poor box sat. And sat. And occasionally, I'd open it up and see what Cindy had to say about her miraculous products filled with this rare melon extract. And then I'd close it back up and go back to whatever I was using at the time.

And it's not that I have "bad" skin or "troubled" skin - but I want that "lit from within" skin. So a few nights ago, as I was taking inventory of my stock in my bathroom, deciding what to keep and what to toss, I decided to give Meaningful Beauty a try.

This is what true love feels like! I look forward to washing my face everyday now - this formula removes makeup without causing my skin to become stripped. Skin just feels clean and soft after using.
Combine that with the Créme de Serum, Skin Brightening Décolleté and Neck Treatment SPF 15 and my oh my will your skin feel amazing.  I can't speak to the anti-wrinkle effects of the line, as I don't have any wrinkles, but I will say that your skin will feel healthy and moisturized while using this line and that, I believe, is half the battle!

I did not encounter any sensitivity issues nor did I break out at all while using Meaningful Beauty - in fact, I noticed a decline in hormonal breakouts! I would definitely recommend this line to anyone looking to change up their skin care routine.