The Beauty of Life: November 2007

Showing newest 52 of 57 posts from November 2007. Show older posts

Showing newest 52 of 57 posts from November 2007. Show older posts

Friday, November 30, 2007

Holiday Gifts: Lancome Juicy Tubes Holiday Gift Set

Sparkly, shimmery, glossy lips? You'd be hard-pressed to find a woman who wouldn't appreciate some lipglosses that help her achieve that effect. And one of the best glosses around has got to be Lancome Juicy Tubes.

This beauty chick has been in love with them for years -- Miracle was her very first one, and continues to be among the items always carried in her purse! So this holiday season, Lancome is definitely at the top of my holiday wish list with the Juicy Tubes Holiday Gift Set. I really can't imagine something better than eight -- count them, eight! -- Juicy Tubes all in one pretty gift box. Ranging from the barely there to the daring, the shades include:

Pure
Fruity Pop
Hallucination
Pink Horizon
Miracle
Magic Spell
Hot Date
the limited-edition Cherry on Top

The whole set is available for $37.50 on Lancome's website. Math isn't my strong suit, but I'd say that definitely qualifies as a bargain since one is $17.50! Hopefully all beauty chicks will find this under the tree come Christmas morning.

Holiday Gifts: CARGO GlossyGreetings Cards

It's that time again -- time to find all of your friends' addresses and send out holiday cards. This beauty chick is always on the lookout for ones that are unique -- and this year I think I hit the jackpot with CARGO GlossyGreetings Cards. Each card has the cutest image of a woman laden down with shopping bags on the front. And the present on top? It's a present for your holiday card recipient -- a little button of rich, moisturizing, shimmering, rosy-hued lip gloss in brand favorite Machu Picchu! Each set of five cards is $10 on Sephora.com -- a total bargain, if you ask me. And as if that weren't enough, 100 percent of the proceeds from the purchase of each set will be donated to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. So you're doing good for a world of people with every card you send. And isn't that what the holiday season is all about?

Holiday Gifts: Sephora Girls Secret Box

At heart, this beauty chick will always be a twelve-year-old girl longing for the palettes and beauty cases at the drugstore around Christmas. That's why I am absolutely in love with the Sephora Girls line -- it's fun, it's cute and it's designed for girls just starting to wear and appreciate makeup. And this holiday season, I will definitely be asking for the Sephora Girls Secret Box, a two-tiered keepsake box which is positively loaded with absolutely adorable beauty goodies.

The top tier opens to reveal a built-in mirror shaped like a heart, a sparkly mini nail polish, two lollipop lipglosses, multipurpose makeup base and a ponytail holder. As if that weren't enough, the bottom tier contains a comb and brush set on a glittery pink keychain!

And the best news of all? It's only $24 on Sephora.com! The twelve-year-old inside of me is positively bursting with glee.

Creative Collaboration: NARS and J. Mendel

Beauty and fashion go together like peanut butter and jelly. So it's always great to see a collaboration between a beauty brand and a fashion house -- especially when it's two heavy hitters like NARS and J. Mendel!

Long a fan of both the brand behind bestseller Orgasm and the gorgeous clothing made by the luxury furrier, this beauty chick was ecstatic to discover the new NARS for J. Mendel Fall 2007 Collection Lip Palette. Each shade held within the tiny case is rich, sophisticated and elegant, exactly pinpointing the feel of each J. Mendel collection.

The top row contains three Lip Lacquers in Chica Boom (rich plum), Chastity (shimmery lavender) and Galactica (sparkling clear). The bottom row features three beautiful Lipsticks in Dolce Vita (matte rose), Scarlet Empress (deep berry) and Viridiana (rich mauve).

At $65 on Beauty.com, it's a fraction of what it would cost to buy one of J. Mendel's luxe furs. Now that's worth looking into.

Holiday Gifts: Jo Malone Bath Oil Collection

Looking for that little something special to really let your friends and family know you care? Induce the feel of luxury into your loved ones' lives this season with Jo Malone. While there are many gift offerings from this beauty chick's favorite luxury parfumeur, the one at the top of my list is definitely the Bath Oil Collection.

Six miniature bottles of gorgeous, heady scents -- including Orange Blossom, Grapefruit, Pomegranate Noir, Lime Basil & Mandarin, Amber & Lavender and Blue Agava & Cacao -- are absolutely perfect for bathtime. Available for $72 on Jo Malone's website, it might seem a bit steep -- but aren't your friends and family worth it? And they are each placed within Jo Malone's signature black and white box so elegantly and invitingly, you'll be dying to keep them for yourself!

It's unfortunate that you'll have to give them away -- so you should probably make sure to request this on your gift list as well.

Delectable Desserts: Soap Silly Cupcake Bubble Bath

Banana cream! Wild blueberry! Chocolate! Iced gingerbread! No, I'm not describing desserts. I'm actually describing the flavors of Cupcake Bubble Bath offered by adorable company Soap Silly!

These mouth-watering treats are so realistic-looking, you'll have to work hard not to eat each and every one! And while they retail for $6.50 a pop, I'm going to bet you can't just order one. So why not do yourself a favor and splurge on the Bubble Bath Cupcake Gift Set? For only $28, you'll get not one but four scrumptious indulgences of your choosing, all wrapped up in a pretty pink box!

Dessert without the calories? Sign this beauty chick up immediately!

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S

Fergie says it best, don't you think? Who doesn't want to be glamorous? Luckily, beauty mecca Sephora is here to help. How, may you ask? Why, by spending a measly $50 on their website, my darlings! And if you're like me, you can find plenty of goodies to get you up to $50 in no time flat. Simply add $50 of merch to your shopping bag, enter code GLAMBAG at checkout, and you'll receive a gorgeous metallic silver clutch jam-packed with 11 free samples! And we're not talking just any samples, either -- try goods by Dior, Kenzo, Aquolina, Cosmedicine, Philosophy, Ojon, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Stila, and Sephora of course! And as an added bonus, if you spend $75 you'll get not only this fabulous clutch but free shipping as well! So what are you waiting for? Get G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S!

Beauteous Beauty Deal

My long love affair with Bath & Body Works notwithstanding (I even worked a retail stint for them in college, just so I could stock up every week on tons of deliciously delectable shower gels and perfumes), the brand really is going in a new, different, even better direction than before. With the introduction of tons of various brands on the site and in the stores, from the high-end like Frederic Fekkai and Patricia Wexler M.D. to the ever-so-girly Goldie and AmericanGirl, there's something for everyone! And now we can all get it at a fraction of the price -- at least for the next few days. Now through December 2, just enter code VELVET10 at checkout to receive $10 off your purchase of $30 or more! All the Plumeria Shower Gel and Cucumber Melon Body Lotion I could want? I bet I'll beat you to ordering!

Beauty Deals: Yankee Candle Mania

Attention all candle lovers! Famed candle company Yankee Candle Co. is offering up a discount on all its goodies all December long! Simply click on this link and print the accompanying ad to save $10 on your purchase of $25 or more. (You can also use promo code XSL16 if you prefer to shop online.) Choose from goodies like the yummy Christmas Cookie Holiday Housewarmer Candle Gift Set ($34.99 for a 22oz. jar candle and four votives!), huge jar candles in delectable scents like Apricot, Cherry Lemonade, Frosted Pumpkin and Hot Buttered Rum ($22.99 each for a huge 22oz. candle that burns for hours and hours!), and oh so much more. But you'd better hurry, because this offer expires on December 29!

Oh-So-Blissful Event!

Attention all NYC beauty chicks who love Bliss (and who doesn't?) -- the SoHo location (568 Broadway, 2nd Floor) is going to be your favorite place ever next week. Specifically on Tuesday, December 4 from 6-8pm, you can stop by for the Bliss Spaahhh-liday Shopping Event. Not only is the spot offering discounts on all Bliss and Remède products -- 10 percent off $100, 15 percent off $125 and 20 percent off everything over $150 -- but the spa's limited-edition holiday treatments are up for grabs during a raffle! Enter to win a Santa Paws Manicure and Mistle Toes Pedicure, which each include paraffin dips, hot cream massages, free hot cider and even a bottle of Essie nail polish to take home! And of course no Bliss event would be complete without free treats -- so stop by to snack on cheese, veggies, brownies and champagne. And the best part of all? This event is free! All you have to do is email rsvpsoho@blissmail.com to get on the list. See you at the brownie table!

Thursday, November 29, 2007

A Healthy Diet for Your Lips: Neutrogena Lip Nutrition

Ultra-rich. Super-moisturizing. Uber-smooth. All words you'd love to hear describing your lips. Unfortunately, winter tends to ravage our pouts, leaving them chapped, dry and flaky. Until now! Neutrogena's Lip Nutrition lip balm offers up tons of relief, suppleness and moisture guaranteed to banish ugly chapping forever!

Each little tub is created with tons of botanical extracts and emollients that leave lips feeling velvety soft. This beauty chick's favorite is definitely Berry Smooth Balm, whose subtle berry hue is accented by smoothing Jojoba beads -- making it not only pretty to look at but perfect for a gorgeous pucker! And as if that weren't enough, cranberry extract and sesame oil both condition and moisturize drier-than-dry lips.

Intrigued? Well, why wouldn't you be? Get one for yourself on Drugstore.com -- it's only $7.59! How can you lose?

Forward March: Ole Henriksen Hands Forward SPF 15

Okay, this whole 60 degrees one day, 30 degrees the next thing has got to stop. My hands just can't take it much longer! But luckily I discovered Ole Henriksen's Hands Forward SPF 15 lotion recently.

Formulated with wonderful, smoothing, softening shea butter -- which might as well have been the ancient gods' ambrosia, for all its amazing properties -- it makes skin visibly suppler in just one application. And with the addition of sunscreen, you'll be protected against harmful UV rays with every use!

You can see for yourself on Ole Henriksen's website -- each bottle is only $28. It will leave hands a bit greasy, but isn't that a small price to pay for unchapped, uncracked skin?

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Black and White: Stila Blanc and Noire Palettes

While refusing to see shades of gray can be a person's downfall, sometimes it's exactly what the beauty doctor ordered. Case in point: Stila's new, limited-edition Blanc and Noire palettes.

The palettes themselves are absolutely, undeniably gorgeous -- felt tops are festooned with sweeping flowers and vines that evoke a romantic, boudoir sensibility. Once opened, each reveals three eyeshadows (base, crease and liner), as well as one cheek color.

Blanc contains shadows in shimmering golden beige, sparkling copper and gold-flecked espresso and a rosy cheek color, while Noire offers shadows in glimmering pale pink, glittering blue-gray and glistening charcoal and a mauve cheek color. Whichever you choose, you're sure to be the belle of the ball.

But act fast, as they won't be available for long! Each is available on Stila's website for $32. What do you know -- sometimes things really are just black and white.

"Shea" It Isn't So: Frederic Fekkai Shea Butter Hair Mask

How to restore shine, smoothness and life to otherwise lusterless locks? Masks are the key. And for a long time now, this beauty chick has kept her favorite product to herself, worrying that it would fly off the shelves before she had a chance to restock! But the time has come to let you in on the secret. What is this wonder of wonders? Frederic Fekkai's Shea Butter Hair Mask!

The slender tube contains some of the creamiest, richest, most moisturizing treatments around. Formulated with shea butter -- good for softening everything from knobbly knees to scaly elbows -- this conditioning mask is aided by the addition of macadamia nut oil to really pull out all the stops. And the longer you leave it on, the softer and more gorgeous your tresses will look and feel! (This beauty chick recommends applying at the beginning of your shower and leaving it on for at least 20 minutes.)

And if you can beat me to the punch, it can be yours for only $22.50 on Sephora's website. Trust me -- your hair will thank you.

Eight Days a Week: CVS 24.7 Skincare

Drugstore brands? I'm all for them. Now, don't get me wrong -- I love me some Dior, Chanel, Frederic Fekkai and all the rest. But there's something to be said for those brands you can only find at CVS, Duane Reade and Walgreen's. The exclusivity factor definitely plays a part in my love for them! And the latest on my list? 24.7, the new skincare brand offered only at CVS stores.

The packaging itself was enough to peak my interest -- the white and clear bottles and tubes emblazoned with the logo in big, vibrant red letters just scream "TRY ME!" And with prices ranging from around $16-$40, how can you not? This beauty chick's favorite product from the line is definitely the Instant Plump Volumizing Lip Shine ($19.99), which you can use all day long to keep your lips looking like they were just injected with collagen. (No one has to know the truth!) Other greats include the Targeted Wrinkle Treatment ($39.99) and the Purifying Facial Scrub ($15.99).

All products from the line are meant to be used all day and night -- hence the kitschy name -- so whether you're a night owl or daytripper, here's your chance to shine!

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Holiday Gifts: Philosophy Cranberry Memory Set

Cranberry. There might not be a more enticing scent around the holidays! Philosophy feels the same way -- hence the Cranberry Memory Set, a limited-edition boxed set of two absolutely delicious products perfect for bathtime. Love Philosophy's trademark 3-in-1s? You're in luck -- this time around you get it with the lovely aroma of cranberry. Skin in need of some TLC? Bring it on with a bottle of body lotion! And since each is a hefty 8oz., you'll be welcoming in the gorgeous scent of cranberry all season long. But this beauty chick's favorite part? It's gotta be the packaging. The bottles are held within an absolutely adorable red box, emblazoned with memories like "an old photograph that calls your name" and "the smell of your mother's perfume from years ago" -- and smack dab in the middle are two sweet-faced, beaming kids in red snowsuits. While you might have a problem giving this set to someone else instead of keeping it all to yourself, the amazing $25 price tag on Philosophy's website certainly doesn't hurt. Now all that's missing is my mom's cranberry sauce.

Spray On: Origins Silkening Body Spritz

A spray-on lotion that's 95% certified organic? What a novel concept! And who better to present it than Origins, purveyors of lots and lots of fantastic organic products? This beauty chick sure can't think of a better partnership.

I was pleasantly surprised by how great the new Silkening Body Spritz made my skin look and feel -- once sprayed out of the bottle, it left my skin so silky and smooth it felt almost velvety to the touch! And it's positively loaded with great organic elements guaranteed to condition and sleekify all your extremities. Organic sunflower oil adds suppleness, while organic soy lecithin increases hydration. And the scent, oh the scent! A blend of clove, rose, lavender, patchouli and red thyme essential oils gives it an oriental aroma with just the subtlest hint of musk.

So what are you waiting for? Welcome the ways of the future with this amazing product. At only $25 on the Origins website, how can you go wrong?

Holiday Gifts: Fruits & Passion Fruity Foaming Bath Collection

Trimming the tree is oh-so-fun, wouldn't you agree? Fruits & Passion sure would -- which is why this year, they've created the most adorable pack of ornament-shaped bubble baths this side of the North Pole. The Fruity Foaming Bath Collection contains seven foaming baths, presented in a plastic canister and tied with a pretty silk ribbon.

Each 2oz. bottle has a totally yummy scent, too -- like delicious Pure Pear, tart Very Lemon, citrusy Grapefruit-Guava and sweet Fieldberries. The best news of all? It's only $24 and available on the Fruits & Passion website.

Now your only problem will be deciding whether to hang these on the tree or wrap the set and leave it underneath for someone to find come Christmas!

Warning: Tons of Gift Giving Ideas Ahead!

The holiday season is in full swing, and you know what that means -- gifts galore! Lots of this beauty chick's posts in the coming weeks will offer up ideas for everything from palettes to bath salts, lotions to candles and everything in between. So sit back, relax and enjoy the myriad items presented for you to give everyone on your list!

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow beauty junkies! Posting may be sporadic over the next few days, as this beauty chick will be drowning in turkey and cranberry sauce -- but I'll do my best to keep you up to date on the finest products out there. Have a wonderful holiday!

Make Way for Royalty: Principessa Bella Candelina Travel Candle

You've always known you were a princess. Isn't it time to let everyone else in on the secret? First step: Purchase the absolutely adorable Bella Candelina Travel Candle by Principessa.

The company's miniature version of their Bella Candela Candle, the tiny pink tin exudes an aura of true Victorian romance when emblazoned with a sweeping black floral motif. Once opened, the mix of cake and flowers gives off such a heady, intoxicating aroma. And since it's hand-poured from VegeSoy wax with an all-natural wick, you'll be doing good for the environment as well as for yourself!

Available for only $8 on Principessa's website, it's great for taking on trips to otherwise lonely and dark hotels, or for just burning on your vanity. Before you know it, everyone will know what a princess you are.

Glamour Girl: Creative Nail Design Pulse

Head-to-toe glitter might be a little much. But a little bit of sparkle never hurt anyone! And luckily, mega-nail brand Creative Nail Design has gotten in on the action with their latest sparkly shade, Pulse.

The deep fuchsia hue is accented by an absolute abundance of glitter in all colors of the rainbow, from glimmering gold and shimmering silver to glistening green and iridescent ivory. The result is a twinkling, blazing shade that looks absolutely amazing for a big night out. With only one coat, your nails go instantly from drab to fab! This shade is just perfect for those god-awful work holiday parties you can't get out of -- at least your nails will give you something to smile about all night.

And the greatest gift of all? It's only $6 and available at goindulge.com. So what are you waiting for? Shine on!

That's The Bomb: LUSH Sex Bomb!

Is there anything better in this world than bubble baths? This beauty chick thinks not. And what better way to unwind after a long, hard day at the office than by dropping one of LUSH Cosmetics' signature bath bombs into the tub? Each one is more amazing than the next, in all the vibrant shades of the rainbow and giving off gorgeous aromas. But the one that really gets pulses racing is -- what else? -- the Sex Bomb! Infused with jasmine, sage and ylang ylang, this best-seller is sensuous, sexy and simply sensational. So why not drop one or six of these pretty pink-and-purple balls into the bath and really get your bathtime started. So why not get well on your way by clicking on the link below?

Too Faced and GoSmile and Sundari, Oh My!

One-stop shopping for a self-professed beauty junkie? Makeup.com has it. Where else can you find everything from Lola Cosmetics and Cargo to Hamadi and Jaqua? When I recently stumbled upon this gem of a site, I was immediately taken in by the beautiful bounty arrayed before me. On the homepage alone, you can find the absolutely adorable Best Friend Makeup Palette by Sugar Cosmetics (a tri-fold palette with tons of glittering eyeshadows and lipglosses to keep you -- or your best friend -- busy for hours), the Maple Treatment Starter Kit by B. Kamins (five cleansers, masks and creams guaranteed to give you glowing, bright skin), and theBalmshell by theBalm (a vibrant, reusable tin with two Plump Your Pucker Tinted Glosses and the brand's awesome Stainiac cheek and lip stain!). And even better? With the link below, you'll get free shipping on all orders over $40! Sephora might just have some competition from this beauty chick.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Facing Facts: Facial at Shizuka New York

Do you want to be pampered? I'm not really sure whose answer to that question would be no. Ever on the quest for the spa that cares, that goes the extra mile, that really puts your needs first, this beauty chick recently entered the haven that is Shizuka New York.

Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of tourists around Rockefeller Center, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Luckily, a relaxing and tranquil environment awaited me. I was immediately greeted and led to the changing rooms and locker area, where I was given the cutest-ever flowered kimono in its own matching bag! After changing and relaxing for a few minutes in the lounge (complete with plenty of oversized armchairs, tasty orange-flavored water and tons of good magazines to keep me busy), I met with Shizuka Bernstein herself for my Signature Micro Facial ($160 for 80 minutes).

First, however, Shizuka asked me some questions about my daily skincare regimen so that she would know how to proceed. Once she started, I knew I was in the hands of a master -- she massaged and scrubbed with the best of them! The treatment included an absolutely yummy-scented pumpkin peel to make my skin glow, and of course put me in the mood for Thanksgiving and pumpkin pie! The most notable part of the facial, however, was the absolutely painless extractions. While extractions have never been too painful for this beauty chick, they've never exactly been a walk in the park, either! But with Shizuka's expert touch, I seriously didn't feel a thing. And when she proceeded to give me an upper body, hand and foot massage, I thought I would float right up into the clouds.

I was left with bright, supple, smooth skin and the wish that I could go to Shizuka for this kind of treatment every day. And all this and more can be yours if you just call and make an appointment. Trust me, you'll be left feeling more than satisfied.

Sensationally Supple Skin: Malin + Goetz Vitamin b5 Body Moisturizer

Finding the right lotion can be tricky. There are so many out there that are deceptively enticing, only to become greasy, watery and intensely cloying upon application. Not so with my new favorite product from cult beauty brand Malin + Goetz: the Vitamin b5 Body Moisturizer.

Formulated with everything from delightful bergamot extract and absorbent fatty acids to nourishing shea butter and soothing honey, it's surprisingly refreshing. The non-drying cream makes hands visibly softer and smoother instantly -- and the subtle medicinal aroma is strangely comforting. And since it's free of all oils and residues, your skin will look and feel amazing.

The good news? It can be yours for only $36 on Malin + Goetz's website. The great news? Your skin will be noticeably softer and smoother in no time flat. Seems like a win-win!

Brush It Off: Goody Add Shine Jojoba Oil Infused Hairbrush

A hairbrush that makes hair shiny and cuts down on frizz, all without the use of a hairdryer? Too good to be true, I thought when I first picked up the Goody Add Shine Jojoba Oil Infused Hairbrush.

This beauty chick's hair has got at least a touch of frizz and out-of-controlness to it even on its most perfect days, so I knew testing it and getting good results would be a challenge. As I began to run it through my hair, however, I was immediately put at ease by the massaging feeling it gave as it brushed against my scalp.

The bristles are flexible and easily glide through strands. And imagine my shock and surprise when I looked at my tresses -- dry and fairly unmanageable on this particular day -- and found them to be sleeker, shinier and healthier-looking! How is this accomplished, I wondered? Why, through the Jojoba Oil inside the brush. It conditions, it moisturizes, it locks in shine. I swear it works!

And it's only $11.99 (check Goody's website for store info). I guess I'm saying goodbye to bad hair days and hello to the new, shinier me!

Bronze Beauty: Sephora Enchanted Eye Palette in Bronze

If you're like me, you're completely fascinated by makeup palettes. The sheer abundance of choices within each one -- brown eyeshadow or blue? red lipstick or purple? blusher or bronzer? -- especially when combined with the pretty packaging and the cuter-than-cute brushes is enough to make this beauty chick scream with glee! Size truly doesn't matter, either -- I could go for a palette with a hundred different shades or be happy with eight. And Sephora must have heard my call, because their latest and greatest -- the Enchanted Eye Palette in Bronze seems like it was made especially for me!

It contains eight absolutely gorgeous shades of brown, green and gray, all which seem to complement each other perfectly and would look good on truly any skin tone! Choose from Chrome 01 (pearly white), Pearl 03 (sparkling lime green), Strass 03 (shimmering gold), Pearl 08 (sparkling champagne), Mat 02 (matte grey), Strass 04 (glimmering olive), Strass 05 (glittering bronze) or Kiss From... (sparkle-tinged chocolate).

All are held within a simply stunning gold palette with an intricate floral design splashed across the cover. And at only $26 on Sephora.com, it seems the "eyes" would have it.

Multi-Tasker: Dior Creme De Gloss

Lipstick or lipgloss? That seems to be the question on, well, every woman's lips these days. Do you prefer a matte, creamy formula? Or one that's lighter, shinier, glossier? Luckily, Dior has heard the calling and created a new formula that's completely revolutionary -- a lipstick and a lipgloss in one! Creme de Gloss has the feel of a rich, creamy lipstick in the body of a shimmery, shiny gloss -- so your lips don't feel thick or sticky but completely luscious and soft. And with eight shades to choose from, there's bound to be one for everyone, whether you prefer a deep, sultry pucker or a barely-there pout. Pretty pinks such as Creamy Almond and Creamy Gold, ravishing reds like Rouge Nectar and beautiful browns like Beige Elixir and Creamy Chestnut abound. Each is only $24.50 and available at Sephora.com. So why not let your lips be ahead of their time?

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Unmask Your Beauty: Zia Natural Skincare Pumpkin Exfoliating Mask

If you're like me, you're thinking about one thing this time of year -- pumpkin pie. But why eat piece after piece and feel the pounds packing on when you can get your pumpkin fix with absolutely no calories to work off? Pumpkin definitely seems to be all the rage these days when it comes to beauty products, and Zia Natural Skincare has gotten in on the action with their Pumpkin Exfoliating Mask.

It packs a huge punch with tons of skin-nourishing ingredients like pineapple, carrot juice and of course pumpkin puree, all of which help to decongest pores and get rid of those nasty dead skin cells. But that's not all -- Vitamins A and E brighten and restore dark and pigmented skin, while frankincense essential oil regenerates cells. How can you go wrong? Trust me -- you can't.

After applying this delectably-scented mask for only ten minutes, this beauty chick's face was noticeably brighter, smoother and glowier. And the pores on my nose -- always a huge problem, especially with the smog and dirt in the city -- were actually reduced and less clogged! This is definitely a product to try.

If you want to just test it out first, check out the trial size on Zia Natural Skincare's website -- it's only $4.95. But if you want to throw all your cares to the wind and go all out, you can get a whopping 1.2 oz from Drugstore.com for $24.59. Whichever you choose, your skin is sure to thank you -- and your hips will, too (since you won't be eating that fourth slice of pie). Bon appetit!

Work Out The Kinks

Absolutely heavenly. Oh-so-relaxing. Soothing beyond all measure. What mythological fantasy might this beauty chick be speaking of? None other than the Muscle Meltdown Massage at Oasis Day Spa.

This spa had intrigued me for quite some time -- the least of which because they actually have an outpost at JFK for weary travelers! I finally decided to take the plunge and make an appointment, and I must say the spa did not disappoint. I chose the One Park Avenue location, and from the moment I entered was completely comfortable and relaxed in my surroundings. The reception area was quite lovely, and the locker room and dimly lit lounge each had so many amenities it was astounding!

My massage therapist, Lisanne, collected me shortly after I had been seated in the lounge, and led me to a nicely sized treatment room that was lit by candles and had soft music playing. She warned me before starting that this massage causes people to sweat pretty profusely, since hot packs are placed all over your body throughout the treatment -- and said that if at any time I was feeling too warm, to definitely say something because I would just get hotter! But luckily, I never once felt too warm -- I really did feel comfortable throughout the entire treatment. Lisanne was a wonderful masseuse, working out all my kinks and knots with the utmost of ease and care. And the hot packs, which were strategically placed across my back and legs, really did remove tension and pain from the afflicted areas.

Intrigued? Well, you should book your massage with Lisanne or one of the other skilled masseuses at Oasis Day Spa before too much time goes by! You can even book your treatment online through the spa's website. The Muscle Meltdown Massage is $120 for 60 minutes or $155 for 90 minutes -- if I were you, I'd go for the full 90. Why not take in all the relaxation you can?

Choco-Rific with Philip B. Chocolate Milk Body Wash

It's creamy, it's heavenly and it smells like chocolate. Willy Wonka would certainly be clambering to get ahold of Philip B.'s latest creation -- Chocolate Milk Body Wash!

Snap open the cap, and within one whiff you're wishing you could just drink the whole bottle. (But don't, because unfortunately it would not do a body good.) But if you can't drink it, at least your whole body can take on the intoxicating aroma. This tasty treat takes me back to my childhood, when I would sit at my grandparents' kitchen table with a tall glass of milk so chocolatey it was almost black, smacking my lips with every delicious sip. But if possible, Philip B.'s concoction is even better! Because with infusions of cocoa butter, oat protein, aloe and wheat amino acids, it moisturizes, it cleans, it soothes and it satisfies.

At only $32 on Beauty.com or $36 on SkinStore.com, you'll be chocolated out in no time. So drink up -- or at least let your skin do the drinking.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Skincare Deals Galore

Okay, really. These beauty deals must end sometime, right? But thankfully not today -- because spalook.com is getting in on the action with tons and tons of free stuff and goodies to give their loyal customers. On the homepage are not one, not two, but three amazing deals on some of your favorite skincare brands! This beauty chick's fave? Spend $125 and you'll get a $30 gift card to use on a future purchase -- simply enter code NEWLOOK at checkout. Maybe you're totally in love with Jurlique -- buy any Jurlique product, just one, and you'll receive five free samples! Or are you feeling like just spending $99 on your order today? No worries, there's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for you too -- a six-piece set of Kneipp products awaits when you enter code KBundle at checkout! All of these offers are good for a limited time only, so you'd best head to spalook.com ASAP and start stocking up. Happy shopping!

Very Important Person

Who doesn't want the red carpet rolled out for them? Raise your hand if you've ever dreamed of riding around town in a limo, sipping champagne and eating caviar while looking at all the jealous passerby. That's what I thought. Well, you may not be able to take your VIP status to that level with Jaqua's VIP program, but you will definitely get some sweet perks out of the deal. Be the first to hear about exciting new products ... become privy to all sorts of special offers and exclusive, members-only deals ... create a wish list with all your must-have body butters and shower syrups ... and so much more! You can even download Jaqua-friendly e-postcards and wallpapers for your computer. But my favorite part of being a Jaqua VIP is definitely the Sinfully Rich Rewards Program, earning me Jaqua Dollars toward free gifts! Now that's what I call being a VIP.

Totally Poppin': Benefit Powder Pop

Sometimes a girl just needs more than one powder to choose from. Maybe you feel like going for barely-there flush. Or perhaps you want sunkissed, glowing skin with just a hint of color. Quite possibly you really want to play up your cheekbones with some not-so-subtle contouring. But isn't it time-consuming -- and heavy on the makeup case -- to carry around so many different shades all the time? Cue Benefit's Powder Pop! -- a totally cute, totally stashable version of their three popular powder colors (Dandelion, Hoola and Dallas). Cute packaging? Check. Easy to use? Double check. Gorgeous, natural shades? Triple check. This palette will only be available for a limited time, however, so you'd best head to Benefit's website immediately and get yours (it's only $30 for all three shades!) before they're all gone.

Ring In The Fun

The free beauty goodies just keep on coming! Seriously, this beauty chick can't take much more before she just dies of excitement. And the latest on the list of giveaways? Beauty mecca Sephora is offering up an absolutely gorgeous cocktail ring with a shimmery pink gloss on the inside. What to do to get in on the glossy action? Simply spend $50 (so easy, with brands like Frederic Fekkai, Philosophy and Marc Jacobs at the ready), and enter code RING at checkout. It'll be the easiest $50 you've ever spent. Trust me.

Shoutout For a Fellow Beauty Blogger!

I recently discovered a link to this very blog on a fellow beauty blogger's page, Jolie in NYC. Just a quick thank you for the kind words and link back to yours truly's blog! Be sure to check out her site as well, lots of great beauty tips and tricks!

Friday, November 16, 2007

A Little of This, A Little of That

Jane Iredale. Conair. Complimentary spa treatments. Free cocktails. For one day only, you'll be able to find all this and more in one spot -- The Beauty Sample Sale, sponsored by Pretty City and NewYorkBeauty.com. Dying to try the latest Revlon nail polishes? Interested in speaking with someone from the American Laser Centers about that pesky unwanted hair? You can do it all here! Simply head to The Beauty Sample Sale's website and snap up your ticket for $25. But you'd better think fast, because these will definitely be gone before you know it!

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Beauty Deals: Bargains Galore at Stila!

It seems like every beauty brand is drastically reducing prices just in time for the holidays. And Stila -- creator of this beauty chick's all-time favorite product, Lip Glaze -- is no exception. Products are practically being given away at the Virtual Warehouse Sale, the prices are so good. Don't believe me? Every item is under $24! Snap up winners like Vintage Lip Glaze ($8) in sparkly hues, the sweet-smelling Jade Blossom Body Wash ($5), and the absolutely gorgeous Eye Shadow Trio in Mazatlan ($9.60). Or go glam with the Shimmer Fantasy kit ($24), which includes everything from four shades of all-over shimmer to one shade of all-over shimmer powder and a rectractable brush! But you'd better hurry, because items are selling out faster than you can say "Stila is the best brand ever!" And this beauty chick is definitely going to beat you to the punch.

Feeling Pouty with the Shutdown of Pout

Bad news in the world of beauty, fellow beauty chicks. Super-cute and fun brand Pout is closing its doors in January. This beauty chick is devastated -- the adorable Eye Shadow Duos with pretty pink bows are a special favorite. But while this is definitely a low blow to the beauty industry and especially admirers of this brand, there is a silver lining. Until the brand closes, the UK website is offering all products at 50 percent off! Goods are going fast, so be sure to stock up on everything from Eyeslick and Pout Plump lip gloss to Bustier (a shimmering souffle cream that promises to lift up your decollete!). Just head to Pout's website -- neverminding the outrageous conversion rate or $27.99 shipping, because soon all these products will be gone, gone, gone! Goodbye, Pout -- there will certainly be a pout on my face for awhile.

Spa Deals Galore

November and December are this beauty chick's favorite months of the year. But not because of Thanksgiving and Christmas (though those are great) -- but because of the amazing abundance of sample sales, spa steals, uber-discounts at all my favorite retailers and more! And this November, Spa-nyc.com is getting in on the action by offering up treatments at 50 percent off all over the city! Choose from great deals like the Microdermabrasion Facial Treatment at Faina European Day Spa (normally $215, now only $107), the Hot Stone Massage at Red & White Spa (usually $120, now $60), manicures and pedicures at Delluva Vinotherapy Day Spa (now only $15 and $20, respectively) and everything at Spa Chinois, plus so much more! So just head to the site, check out all the deals and go crazy pampering and treating yourself all over town. Hey, you'll need it after shopping till you drop at all those sample sales!

Over 500 Hits in Two Days! Thank You!

Just a quick thank you to all my readers ... The Beauty of Life has gotten over 500 hits in just two days! Whether you're a new reader or have been following along for awhile, this beauty chick thanks you -- and hopes you'll keep coming back for more!

Stay beautiful,
Jamie

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Simply Super: Meet Josie Maran

Want to look like a supermodel? It might be easier than you think. For all you Manhattanites: this Thursday, stop by Barneys New York anytime from 1-6pm and get the chance to not only check out the latest collection from Josie Maran Cosmetics but actually meet Josie! She'll be on hand to give makeup tips and preview her gorgeous Holiday collection, entitled Gold Dust. All items are 100 percent organic -- even a makeup bag she's created is made of silk and hemp, while mascara is crafted with jojoba oil, beeswax and argan oil. Intrigued? To attend, simply email xruperto@barneys.com or call 212-833-2316. And get a preview of the collection on the Josie Maran Cosmetics website -- you'll shimmer like a real star.

Beauty Deals: Bliss Free Gift With Purchase

Vanilla + Bergamot. Lemon + Sage. Body Butter. Soapy Sap. Never heard of any of these? While this would usually be a crime, I'll forgive you just this once -- because for a limited time, Bliss is offering first-time customers a free gift with purchase! Just head to Blissworld.com (using this link) and you'll get one of their best products free! -- well, in this beauty chick's opinion, anyway. So head there now and get a free Lemon + Sage Body Butter when you add just one measly little item to your cart! Now that's what I call gifted.

Monday, November 12, 2007

I Do Believe In Fairies: Goldie Tinker Bell Collection

Sometimes I really am just a teenager at heart. Case in point: the new Tinker Bell collection for Goldie. I'm not sure when my fascination with Tink started -- as a child, I actually remember disliking her intensely -- but in the last few years, I've gone so far as to buy a Tinker Bell sweatshirt at Disneyland and use any adorable product the little green fairy has graced. And now Goldie has gone so far as to create an entire collection around her, making my life that much more exciting!

My absolute favorite offering has got to be the Tinker Bell Shimmer Bath & Shower Bubbles. Within the adorable round green bottle lies a shimmering, glittering green gel, scented with flowers and accented with none other than a picture of Tink herself on the front. But the offerings also include Tinker Bell Shimmer Powder Box (a gold star-shaped box with a lovely, fluffy powder puff), Tinker Bell Tootles & Treasures Nail Color in Nursery (a faint, pink-tinged clear color that's topped off by a sparkling green jewel), and the absolutely adorable Tinker Bell Shimmer Powder Wand, which will make you feel like the princessy fairy you know you are!

All are available for under $25 on the Bath and Body Works website. So what are you waiting for? Flick your wings and snap up a few before it's too late!

Ravishing Darling, Simply Ravishing

With all the lipglosses, lipsticks, lip pencils and the like out there, how can we ever find the one to call our own? Every time this beauty chick thinks she's found it, another one comes along to lay its claim. And the most recent? Kitten Vixen Put Your Lips Together Lip Gloss in Ravishing Ruby.

It makes your lips look instantly kissable and supple, while the barely-there crimson hue is soft and sweet with just a hint of sexiness. But just how is this amazing feat accomplished? With organic oils like macadamia seed, aloe leaf and apricot kernel added of course!

Becoming both a kitten and a vixen at the same time -- it can only happen if you head to Kitten Vixen's website and plunk down the $16. This beauty chick sure is going to give it a try.

Great Site Alert: Macy's

Okay, who knew that there was such an amazing offering of beauty products stashed up the sleeve of Macy's.com? This beauty chick sure didn't, until she was recently looking for product inspiration and found it here. Such a multitude of fragrances, lotions, lipglosses and all the rest abound at this absolute gem of a site! I'm absolutely loving the current landing page, with everything from holiday gift set offerings to peeks at the latest goods from top beauty brands like Estee Lauder and Chanel. And the unique links down the left-hand side, including Award Winning Beauty (check out products that won CEW and Allure Beauty Awards). And the brands, oh, the brands! From Calvin Klein fragrances and Lancome Definicils Mascara to M.A.C, Shiseido and oh so much more, I've been swooning all day! I'll definitely be adding this one to my Favorites.

Discounts Are a Beauty Chick's Best Friend

Marilyn Monroe might have had diamonds. But beauty chicks have got, well, beauty products. And what better way to buy them than with a discount, right? Thankfully, Blue Q -- purveyor of tongue-in-cheek products by super-cute lines like Miso Pretty and Dirty Girl -- agrees. Now through November 24, you can get 20 percent off your entire order on the Blue Q website! Just enter promo code BQFF07 at checkout. Time to stock up on everything from Dirty Girl Ginger Soy Lip Balm to Cute As Hell Body Mist!

Friday, November 9, 2007

It's a Bumpy Road: Bliss Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peeling Pads

Always a bit skeptical of products that claim to eradicate painful ingrowns, I admit I felt a touch of trepidation when opening Bliss Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peeling Pads.

A circular pad -- which looks much like Oxy's acne-removal pads from those awful 80's commercials -- that will really make sure I have no ingrowns or stubbly red bumps? You've gotta be kidding.

But imagine my shock and surprise when I discovered that they actually work! After a recent bikini wax, this beauty chick religiously swept an alpha-and-beta hydroxy-soaked pad a day across the unmentionable area, right after stepping out of the shower. And believe me when I say I had not one ingrown or awful red bump as the hair began to grow back! Even better, there's no irritation caused from the pads, since they're formulated with green tea and oat extract for a soothing, calming feel.

Don't believe me? Pick up a tub for yourself on Bliss's website. $38 may seem a bit much now, but just think about how you'll feel if you don't try these the next time a part of you heads to Brazil.

Always Coca-Cola: Bonne Bell Smackers Coca-Cola Collection Bag

You know what this beauty chick's biggest pet peeve is? Ordering a Coke at a restaurant and being told, "We don't have Coke, is Pepsi okay?" As the comedian Gary Gulman says, "No! Pepsi NOT okay!" Bonne Bell is definitely on board with this theory, as evidenced by their latest and greatest Smackers invention -- the Smackers Coca-Cola Collection Bag!

Six tasty and delicious flavors await inside an absolutely adorable red plastic bag bedecked with gray fizzes and bubbles. The classics are here, of course -- Cherry Coke, Barq's Root Beer and Black Cherry Vanilla Coke. But three delicious surprises are in store as well, all from the Fanta family -- Strawberry, Grape and Orange! Not that I needed another reason to get on board with Smackers -- they're already in my handbag, my makeup bag, and strewn across my vanity and desk in every color and flavor imaginable -- but at only $6.99 on Beauty.com for this entire set, how could I pass it up?

More to the point, how could you? Just think -- all the fun, and none of the calories. Mmmm.

Split Personality: Too Faced Good Girl/Bad Girl Palette

Sometimes we're good. Sometimes we're bad. And usually we're forced to wear the same makeup no matter which side of our personality we're exhibiting on any particular day. Until Too Faced came along and invented the Good Girl/Bad Girl Palette, that is.

Falling right in line with this beauty chick's aforementioned love of makeup palettes, this whimsical wonder offers up a host of options guaranteed to bring out the best -- or worst -- in you. Feeling coy and sweet? Better stick with the pink "Good Girl" side, emblazoned with a Marilyn Monroe-esque image and opening to reveal sparkling shades of taupe, beige and peach. Would you rather be naughty than nice? Time for the black "Bad Girl" side, printed with a Rita Hayworth-like image and containing glittering berries and grays.

Each side contains three lipglosses and three eyeshadows, while below lie two brushes -- all accessible by handle grosgrain ribbon pull-tabs. My, Too Faced certainly thinks of everything, don't they? If only they could predict which personality of yours will come out each day. I guess they'll have to settle for you snapping up the $29.50 gem on the Too Faced website and leave you to figure out the rest!

Heading to the Emerald City with Dior Eye Show

Okay, who doesn't have a certain fondness for Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman and all the rest? I can't even count how many times I've seen The Wizard of Oz. Maybe that's where my fascination with green eyeshadows started! And it's continued to lead me toward finding the newest, the best, the brightest eye makeup around. And what's currently on my list? Dior's Dior Eye Show in sultry Queen of the Green.

The miniature crystal tub alone is fascinating, complete with a gleaming "CD"-engraved silver top. But once unscrewed, the tub reveals an enticingly wonderful deep green hue (see the swatch on the right) that just begs to be swept across the eyelid and taken out for a night on the town! The delectable creamy formula glides on smoothly and cleanly, and the texture feels almost like whipped butter! With a subtle gray tinge, this shade is ultra-flattering on everyone from redheads to blondes and everything in between!

At only $30 and available on sephora.com, methinks I just discovered the easiest way to reach the Emerald City.

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