Beauty Deals: Save 50 Percent at Freeze 24-7!

I don't know about you, but I am seriously in love with Freeze 24-7. And now they've really hooked me, because right now you can save a whopping FIFTY PERCENT on all their products! Simply head to the Freeze 24-7 website right now, enter code THANKS at checkout and you'll get every single product for half off. I don't know about you, but I'm going to the site immediately to save on these goodies --

Freeze & Go Instant Smoother & Brightener (normally $65): It brightens and plumps, it reduces the appearance of large pores, and it softens fine lines. After reading about this miracle product on my fellow blogger Shannon's website, A Girl's Gotta Spa, I am definitely dying to check this out!

IceCream Double Scoop Intensive Anti-Aging Moisturizer (normally $105): Good-for-you ingredients like green tea and L-Carnosine help protect against aging and stress while providing nourishment and hydration. That's something I could really sink my spoon into!

IceCrystals Anti-Aging Prep & Polish (normally $65): With claims that it reduces age spots, sebum content, scar intensity and surface roughness -- in addition to decongesting acne-prone skin and improving overall brightness -- this is one scrub I'm definitely interested in trying!

Skin Glace Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask (normally $65): Rice bran and soy protein help to unclog pores, remove excess oil and make skin bright and glowy. Plus it's hypoallergenic, which makes this beauty chick think it will be good for her sensitive skin!

I'm not sure how long this promotion will last, so you'd better hurry before it's going, going, gone! Happy shopping!

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Chat With The Beauty Chick!

Are you as in love with instant messaging as this beauty chick? I have been totally addicted to chatting with my friends and family online ever since my days with AOL in the 1990s. But now things are so much better ... because I have a new chatbox on my blog, where my lovely readers (that's you!) can ask me questions and give me suggestions in real time! Check it out -- it's right underneath my email subscriptions tab on the right. Can't wait to chat with you!

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Must-Have Mondays: Frederic Fekkai Travel Faves -- Glossing

Were you born with shiny, silky tresses? Then this beauty chick is seriously jealous of you ... because unfortunately, I was not blessed with the genetic lottery when it comes to my hair! It takes a lot of work to make it sleek, shiny and Pantene-worthy. But thanks to the Glossing Collection from Frederic Fekkai, it's definitely a lot easier ... and now there's a fantastic Travel Faves set with all the products guaranteed to make my locks shine with the best of them.

Four portable versions of the Glossing line, plus a wide-toothed travel comb, are presented oh-so-elegantly in a patent leather wristlet that can double as a clutch for the night out on the town! 2 oz. sizes of Glossing Shampoo and Glossing Conditioner, a 1.5 oz. Sheer Hold Hair Spray and 1.6 oz. Glossing Cream will definitely keep your locks in line. The Glossing Cream is even formulated with olive oil to really add tons of gloss and shine to your strands.

These products are among my favorites in any size -- but I absolutely love that I can travel in style and know that my hair will look amazing! The whole set is available on Sephora's website for $40. Lustrous, silken tresses? That's definitely a must have.

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The Beauty Blog Network: The Weekend Beauty Read

It's time once again for the Weekend Beauty Read, courtesy of my fabulous fellow bloggers at the Beauty Blog Network! Check out what happened around the beauty blogosphere this week!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic reconsiders blonde hair after some great color advice from Brad Johns!

Tousled, textured hair is the top tress trend for Spring 2008! StyleBell shows you how to create Beachy Waves with your flat iron.

The Makeup Divas Beauty Blog is blown away by these ProSilk Hair Products!

Beauty Anonymous brings you Anna Sui Beach Collection for Summer 2008!

The Muse shows you the solution to eyeshadow fall out woes with a review of Shadow Shields!

SugarShock Beauty is channelling fashion muse of the moment Amy Winehouse – (in a subtle way, we promise!) – with Stila's new liquid eyeliner.

Beauty and Personal Grooming shares some DIY Antiwrinkle face masks

A Touch of Blusher can't live without this foundation.

Beauty Blogging Junkie tells you how to channel the look of your fave The Hills girl here.

Mischo Beauty shares her best tips on how to prepare for a bikini wax and what to expect!

The Daily Cookie reviews a dupe for the popular MAC 187 blush brush for a fraction of the price!

Product Girl is having her first giveaway. Enter to win a Philosophy Breakfast in Bed Shower Gel Set from now until Monday night!

Makeup Moxie reviews Cargo Blu-Ray High Definition Mascara.

Glossypink reveals her favorite eyeshadow of all time!

Just when you thought SPF 15 was safe, The Beauty Bug makes you think again, and tells you why you should up your dosage of SPF!

Spoiled Pretty hearts her T3 hair dryer. But what's the one thing she would add to it? Find out what extra would push her head over heels...

Savvy Skin realizes her skin care obsession is ruining her career!

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog shows you how to get Mariah Carey's look with MAC Heatherette Beauty Powder.

The Beauty of Life finally figures out how to banish undereye circles for good! Check out her two miracle products!

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Fake That Gorgeous Glow

I'm one of those people who's been cursed with pale skin that either burns or, well, stays pale. I guess that's good in terms of staying away from tanning and getting skin cancer ... but it means that even in the heat of summer I am as pale as a ghost! But thanks to Sundara Airbrush Tanning, I can now look like I just got back from a week in the Caribbean without ever leaving the island of Manhattan!

My favorite feature of Sundara is definitely the fact that instead of going into a booth, you have an actual person standing in front of you with a tanning gun -- so you really get customized, perfect color from head to toe. No mishaps like Ross had on Friends! (And yes, a lot of people asked me if I would come out as an "8.")

From the moment I walked in the door of the adorable venue, Natalie took excellent care of me. After filling out a form specifying the color I wanted (light) and answering some questions (Did you shave today? Exfoliate? Wear deodorant or perfume?), Natalie led me back to the changing area and instructed me to rub some of the Sundara Coconut Body Butter into my knees, elbows and heels. She also wanted me to feel comfortable, so she said underwear or a bikini was optional -- which I definitely appreciated!

Once I was ready to be sprayed, Natalie turned on the gun and went to work. I found myself performing almost ballet-like moves as she turned the spray toward me. (Luckily I had some dance training in the past!) I was impressed by her deftness, quickness and ability to reach even the toughest areas just by asking me to turn my leg or arm this way and that, ensuring a really even tan. Within 10 minutes, Natalie was finished spraying me, and then it was just time for me to stand under the fans for 10 more minutes to ensure that I was dry before dressing!

Quick, painless and absolutely the easiest sunless tanning experience I've had to date. As for the color, while I was on the light side (I didn't want to look too tan, as I thought it would look fake on my pale complexion), it looked seriously amazing. It did streak a bit as it faded, but not too noticeably -- so all in all, I'd say this was one self-tanning experience that's definitely worth it! Rates are as follows:

$75 for full body
$45 for half body
$25 for face

For more information about the treatment and available packages or specials, visit Sundara's website. Now when my friends see me, they'll think I got back from a beach vacation! I guess this is just my trusty little secret.

Not sure whether airbrush tanning is right for you? Ease into the whole sunless tanning game with Jergens Natural Glow Express. The bottle guarantees natural summer color in just three days. After only one usage, I saw a substantial increase in color! It's available in either Medium or Medium/Tan and retails for $7.99 on Walgreens.com.

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Beauty Deals: Urban Decay Spring Cleaning Sale

Are you a fan of the Ink Lip Stain, Lip Gunk and Liquid Eye Liner from Urban Decay? Well then, you're in luck -- to make room for new stuff on their website, Urban Decay is having a major sale! Over 50 items are up for grabs at a whopping 50 percent off. Head to the site right now to score fabulous goodies like these:

Ink Lip Stain (normally $17, now $8): Snap up Naked -- a sheer mocha -- in this fun pen that you literally use to draw right on your lips for a gorgeous, long-lasting stain.

Metal Eye Sheen (normally $18, now $9): Four shades of this beautiful shadow are available. My favorite is definitely Loaded, a super-pigmented metallic green.

XXX Slick Pot Gloss (normally $15, now $7): I'm so in love with these pots -- the colors inside are amazing, and the purple tassel is just such a cute finishing touch. I can't wait to get my hands on Carney (pretty rose) and Sin (the perfect shade of beige-y nude).

Poison Ring MMVI (normally $50, now $25): Jewelry and lipgloss in one great product? How can you go wrong? Plus, I'm just totally over the moon for the skull-emblazoned ring.

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Share Your Stories with Curel and Redbook and Win!

Do you have a milestone story you'd like to share with the world? Well then you're in luck -- Curel and Redbook Magazine have teamed up to bring you the aptly named Share Your Story contest! The new Curle Life's Stages collection addresses the different needs of skin during different periods of a woman's life -- pregnancy, menopause and the first signs of aging. The contest sponsored by Curel and Redbook will honor those changes by asking women to submit their most touching or humorous stories about these three stages. Even Redbook Beauty Director, Cheryl Kramer, is getting in on the act by sharing her own story in the April issue! To enter, simply log onto Curel's website between now and April 30. The three best stories (chosen by Kramer, dermatologist Dr. Diane Berson, and OB/GYN Dr. Miriam Greene) will be published on Redbook's website! The authors of the winning stories will also win a trip to New York City, where they might have the opportunity to share their stories with the media! But even if you're not one of the winners, don't despair -- every entrant will receive a sample of one of the Curel Life's Stages products. Being rewarded for your stories? Hey, that's life.

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First Look Fridays: Beckie and Jamie of Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog

Welcome to another addition of First Look Fridays! This week I am pleased to bring you the ladies behind Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog, Beckie and Jamie! I'm a huge fan of this blog and these lovely ladies ... it's a definite must-read for this beauty chick! Beckie (AKA "The Woman") is a baby boomer from South Bend, Indiana who's passionate about helping other boomers age both gracefully and stunningly, and she also wants younger women to feel confident in their own skin. Jamie (AKA "The Girl") -- love her name! -- is a fitness specialist from the boomerang generation. A current resident of Indianapolis, she graduated from Indiana University (which, coincidentally, is where this beauty chick went to school as well!), and she's passionate about helping women feel happy and healthy about themselves. Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog is a fantastic combination of product reviews, fitness tips and notes on fashion trends, all written in a conversational tone that just makes you want to keep reading! Read on for my interview with the Girl and the Woman behind this fabulous blog!

Why did you decide to start a blog?
Beckie: I couldn't find many fashion and beauty sites for women over 40. I felt like I could fill a void in that demographic.

When did you start your blog?
Beckie: October of 2007.

I love the name of your blog! How did you come up with it?
Beckie: I wanted to create a beauty blog for smart women and offer "brains on beauty" advice, whether it be the science behind a beauty product, a cheaper alternative to an expensive brand, smart fashion tips for all sizes of women, and health and wellness tips. I was hoping Jamie would come aboard as "The Girl" and offer a 20-something/boomerang perspective so that the blog would cover a larger age span. That hope turned into reality this month. Jamie, a certified personal trainer, now writes "Fitness 911" as well as covering other areas of "everything beauty."

Do you have a "day job?" What is it?
Beckie: I have been a court reporter for most of my professional life.
Jamie: I am currently a personal trainer.

What have been some of the highlights of having your blog?
Beckie: I have met so many wonderful people in connection with the blog. I had an opportunity to attend Fashion Week in New York this year and made some wonderful new friends that are involved with fashion and beauty blogs, but the most rewarding moment was an email that I received in response to a post I wrote about the fashion industry's connection to eating disorders. The girl/woman read the post and wrote the most heart-warming response that she was now rethinking her life and trying to get healthy.
Jamie: Many of my clients now read the blog and love it.

What are your top 5 beauty essentials?
Beckie: Anthelios (Mexoryl) or Neutrogena (Helioplex) sunscreen, Retin-A, sleep, exercise, and sex. Okay. I can hear some laughter on the last one, but seriously, the last three might be the most important anti-aging beauty essentials.
Jamie: I am kind of low-maintenance when I'm in the gym, so for work, Cetaphil, Herbal Essences Shampoo, lipgloss, deodorant, and moisturizing cream.

Playing with products must be fun -- but what are some things you do for fun outside of blogging?
Beckie: Traveling, reading on my own and as part of a book club, walking, yoga and Pilates, spending time with family and friends, the very haute beagle.
Jamie: My Walter chihuahua and newly adopted cat Martha, my boyfriend, exercising outside of the gym, shopping for clothes that I can't afford.

Are there any other beauty blogs you read regularly? What are some that you like and why?
Beckie: Well, of course I love your blog. In addition, I try to peruse all the blogs that are included on my "Sassy Sites" every week, as well as Coutorture and Total Beauty on a daily basis.
Jamie: FitSugar and random selections at this time. Oh, and yours, too, now that I discovered your blog.

Thanks so much to Beckie and Jamie for their lovely interview! Now be sure to head to Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog!

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Go Wild for Ralph Wild!

There's a new fragrance on the Ralph Lauren block, and its name is Ralph Wild. Introduced at the end of 2007, this scent came hot on the heels of the sultrily sexy Ralph Hot.

A base of wild strawberries and watermelon give off almost a Jolly Rancher vibe, though it's surprisingly more adult than you'd expect that sort of scent to be. But as my fellow blogger The Scented Salamander notes in her review, the fragrance dries down to an almost hairspray-like aroma (think Herbal Essences) that you might not want to actually have on your skin and clothing all day.

Perhaps it's the mix of fruity essences with cherry blossom, pink peppercorn, red rose petals, jasmine, amber, sandalwood and musk ... but even after a couple minutes of smelling it, I have to admit it became a bit cloying and sickly. Truth be told, this made me sad as I really wanted to love it wholeheartedly!

This beauty chick thinks this fragrance is perfect for a younger sister, cousin, niece, and the like ... teens will definitely go "wild" over such a sweet-smelling scent! Keeping true to the youthful spirit of the fragrance, you can even head to Ralph Wild's Facebook page and enter for a chance to win a Vespa! But you'd better hurry, as that contest ends March 30. If you're intrigued by the fragrance and want to check it out for yourself, it's available on Ralph Lauren's website for $45 (1.7 oz) or $59.50 (3.4 oz). One thing's for sure -- it will definitely drive you wild.

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Trend-Filled Thursdays: Natural and Organic Beauty

Look in any women's magazine right now, from InStyle to Allure, and you'll see one thing -- natural and organic beauty products. Everyone wants to get in on the green trend! Even beauty websites like Sephora and Beauty.com have whole sections devoted just for organic and natural beauty products. But what does it all mean? What's the difference between organic and natural, anyway? Read on for the scoop -- and some fantastic goodies along the way!

Mineral Makeup
Mineral makeup is made from natural minerals that have been crushed into silky powders. They're formulated without preservatives, oil, fragrance, talc and waxes. Even better, they're great for all skin types and work especially well for people with acne, rosacea or sensitive skin! (So this beauty chick is definitely on board.) You'll definitely want to check out the following products and brands!

bareMinerals: This brand was developed by Bare Escentuals and is composed of 100 percent minerals with no additives or irritants at all! There are tons of fantastic products to choose from in this line, all packaged cleanly and strikingly. I can't wait to get my hands on these products --
Tutorials: The Foiled Eye ($32): Comes with Night Owl Eyecolor, Disco Eyecolor and a Double-Ended Foil & Fuse Eye Brush to really make eyes sparkle.
Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish ($18): I am totally in love with the names of these lipglosses, from Bianca (golden peach) to Trixie (shimmery pink).
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear: The brand developed an entire line that's created with tons of amazing minerals like mica, boron nitride and malachite, and absolutely no talc! I definitely want to try the Eye Liner, which is developed specifically for contact lens wearers and is only $6.95!
Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics: The line is totally talc-and-paraben-free, and it even uses broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection to keep the sun's harmful rays away from your skin! The PureMoist LipColours are formulated with SPF18 and contain no synthetic dyes!

NATURAL MAKEUP AND SKINCARE
These products are plant-based and use naturally-derived ingredients. They're also made without synthetic fragrances or dyes, parabens or other chemicals. Who knew makeup could be quite so good for you? Here are some of the standouts.

Korres Natural Products: It's right in the name! I am in love with everything in this line, but the Lip Butter ($9) is my absolute favorite. It comes in four amazingly tasty hues: Guava (clear), Quince (sheer rose), Pomegranate (sheer coral) and Wild Rose (deep sheer red) and contains shea butter to really moisturize your pucker!
L'Occitane: Everything from L'Occitane gets me going, but the best is definitely the Honey & Lemon Delightful Cream ($34). It's enriched with pure honey and lemon essential oil and smells absolutely delectable.
Ole Henriksen: There are tons of amazing facial products to be had in Ole Henriksen. The cleansers and masks make skin gleam like never before! In my opinion, the Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask ($32) sounds incredible ... it calms and renews with lavender, blueberries, papaya enzyme and blackberries!

ORGANIC MAKEUP
These products are grown without pesticides, insecticides and herbicides and their production has to be certified as organic by independent organizations like EcoCert or the Soil Association. In the US, the USDA's National Organic Program handles this for personal care products. A product has to contain 100 percent organic ingredients to bear the USDA organic seal, or at least 70 percent organic ingredients to use the term "organic" on their labels. Far from being crunchy, organic makeup and skincare is really pushing the envelope! Check out what brands and products are organic -- it may shock you!

Care by Stella McCartney: Inspired by Stella McCartney's vegetarian principles, commitment to protect the environment and her personal philosophies, Care by Stella McCartney is formulated with 100 percent organic active ingredients and absolutely no petrochemicals or silicones. And while the 5 Benefits Moisturising Cream may seem a bit steep at $76, the fact that it moisturizes, nourishes, helps protect the skin from exposure to the environment and leaves skin fresh and radiant is enough for me!

Juice Beauty: The products in this brand are free of parabens, fragrance and petroleum, and their skincare products are pretty incredible. The Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturizer ($43) makes skin literally glow. And one of my all-time favorite lip balm trios, the SPF 15 Tinted Lip Moisturizers ($15), enriched with bee propolis, guava and plant oils, is by none other than this brand!

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Beauty News: Procter & Gamble Buying Frederic Fekkai

It was announced yesterday that Procter & Gamble is buying Frédéric Fekkai. This beauty chick isn't quite sure what to think about this. While I love the P&G brands, especially Pantene, I don't know whether it's a smart move on Fekkai's part to go with them. Frédéric Fekkai is such a specialized luxury brand, it just seems odd to me that it would become part of a major conglomerate whose products are mainly sold in drugstores and supermarkets. What do you think about this? Leave your thoughts in the comments!

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Wallet-Friendly Wednesdays: Boys in the Bottle Nail Polish

Now, I love Essie and OPI as much as the next girl. I can't get enough of Sugar Daddy or A-List Red. But once in awhile I like to try something new, and so I went on the hunt for a hot new nail polish brand. And what did I find? Boys in the Bottle! I stumbled upon this company's website recently and was completely blown away by their fun colors and amazing prices. We're talking seriously amazing here, folks -- each bottle is completely free! All you pay for is the shipping. So you're getting gorgeous colors for a mere fraction of what you'd pay for other brands. There are 36 shades to choose from, each one more original than the next. Here are the standouts.

Adam's Apple (a striking candy apple red)
Blue Gene (get in on the navy nails trend with this shimmery wonder!)
G.I. Joe (a sparkle-tinged olive that will make you long for the real American hero!)
Bubba Gum (a simply delicious bright pink)

So here's the breakdown on pricing. For single polish orders, you'll pay just $4.39. Each additional bottle costs just $2 extra ... so two bottles will be $6.39, three bottles will be $8.39, and so on. And if you order six bottles (which, yes, is a bit over the Wallet-Friendly Wednesdays price cap at $14.39), you'll even get a free Girl On Top! (That's their topcoat.) Intrigued? Head to the Boys in the Bottle website now to start ordering!

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Two-For Tuesdays: Bigelow Forever Lemon Caddy

I'm a huge fan of caddies that contain beauty products. Maybe it's just me hearkening back to my college days, carrying a bunch of products to and from the communal bathroom each morning, but I just really love them. And this one by C.O. Bigelow is so wonderful, I just had to feature it today in Two-For Tuesdays!

C.O. Bigelow's Lemon scent is one of my all-time favorites. It's so fresh and clean, and while it's citrusy, it refrains from being too tart. I just used up my Lemon hand wash in the bathroom and when I came across this caddy I got so excited -- because now it comes packaged with a Hand Lotion in the same fantastic scent!

The Hand Wash is created with lemon oil and extracts and a ton of Vitamin C to keep hands feeling soft and smooth ... and it gives a seriously great lather with only one pump! The accompanying Hand Lotion is formulated with lemon extract and Vitamin C to, again, keep hands super-supple ... and it even contains shea butter and kukui nut oil, which means your hands will just be silky smooth after every application!

I honestly can't say enough good things about this scent or the two products -- I've used both a ton in the past and have never been disappointed. The set is available on C.O. Bigelow's website for $22.50 -- a total steal, if you ask me!

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Bright Eyes: Thanks to Two Miracle Products!

I have unfortunately been "blessed" with dark under-eye circles. When I wake up in the morning, I look as though I've been out partying for six nights straight with a consecutive amount of three hours of sleep -- and that's when I've slept for eight hours a night! It only gets worse throughout the day ... by the time I head to bed around 11 or 12, I seriously have such dark circles that it looks like I got punched in the face and have not one, but two black eyes. I only wish I were exaggerating. But thanks to the two miracle-workers below, my eyes have almost returned to normal! (And hey, the rest is what concealer is for.) Check out the two eye creams this beauty chick just simply cannot live without.

Kiehl's Abyssine Eye Cream+
Want to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, all while defending your skin from free radical damage? Kiehl's Abyssine Eye Cream+ is the way to go. When I first opened up the jar, I have to admit I was skeptical. Could this cream really deter the look of aging while soothing my skin and making me look less tired? But the luxe, light-as-air white cream really felt amazing going on -- it's cool to the touch, and just feels so rich as it's spread on the skin. There's a light, almost buttery scent that just sinks right into the skin along with the formula, which absorbs within 10 seconds and leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth and not at all greasy. The main ingredients -- apricot kernel oil (has a high Vitamin E content to moisten and soften the skin while retaining its suppleness), corallina extract (a mineral-rich red alga that thickens and reinforces the skin's moisture barrier) and of course abyssine 657 (to soothe and protect skin) really just make skin feel incredible. Within two weeks, lines and darkness under my eyes had all but disappeared, leaving me looking healthier, more rested, and definitely happier! Kiehl's Abyssine Eye Cream+ retails for $32 on Kiehl's website.

La Mer The Eye Concentrate
Unless you live under a rock, chances are you've heard of La Mer. The cult favorite (it's rumored that Jennifer Lopez uses best-seller Creme de la Mer not just on her face but all over her body) has been churning out some of the most sought-after products in skincare for decades. But their most recent addition to the family is this beauty chick's absolute favorite. The Eye Concentrate is formulated with not one, not two, but three forms of La Mer's patented Miracle Broth -- the original, a concentrated form and a new, encapsulated form to optimize continuous release to the skin. Designed to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, lines and wrinkles, the miniature tub (it's a mere .5 oz.) packs quite a punch with the light cucumbery scent that wafts out as you unscrew the cap. As I dabbed it on under my eyes, it felt cool to the touch and left a slight sheen over the skin. In addition to the Miracle Broth, this cream contains hematite -- a naturally magnetic mineral that's known for its energies. The tub even comes with a specially engineered silver-tipped applicator that's just oh-so-chic. Within days of usage, my dark circles had basically disappeared, unbelievably staying far away even late into the evening hours! This can be yours for the not-so-bargain price of $160 on Saks.com. Yes, it's expensive -- but trust me, it's quite the worthy indulgence.

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Want to Travel the World?

Are you a world traveler ... or do you want to be? Well, if plane tickets are a little out of your budget, do the next best thing and get thee to a Lancome counter immediately! Juicy Tubes World Tour is a fantastic collection of iconic Juicy Tubes inspired by four hot fashion cities. And each tube is decorated with a chic dress pattern by London fashion designer Christopher Kane! There are nine amazing colors you can get your hands on right now:

NEUTRALS
Copacabana Coffee (shimmery brown)
Grand Cafe Creme Brulee (glittery cream)
Paris Bubbly (glistening yellow)
Peach Mochi (twinkling peach)

PINKS-BERRIES
Moulin Rose (glimmering mauve)
Tokyo Plum Blossom (gleaming purple)

REDS-CORALS
Fifth Avenue Frosting (sparkly cranberry)
Red Hot New York (dazzling crimson)
Rio Mango (shining apricot)

Each tube is available for $18. Many are still available on Lancome's website, but they're selling out fast -- so you'd better hurry! These are collectors' items that definitely will fly off the shelves!

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Tickled Pink for Tinsley Pink

Love Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect? Then you'll be super-psyched to hear the latest news about this fantastic lipgloss. Dior Beauty recently made prominent New York socialite Tinsley Mortimer a Dior Beauty Ambassador, and now they've created the first-ever product named for a brand ambassador! Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect in Tinsley Pink will mirror Mortimer's personality and style in a versatile, feminine shade of bubblegum pink with a shimmering finish and multi-dimensional reflective pigments.

Even better, a portion of proceeds from the sale of Tinsley Pink will go to one of her favorite charities, Operation Smile. (Operation Smile is a worldwide children's medical charity.) The limited-edition Tinsley Pink will be available in May for $24.50 exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue stores. Are you as excited to get your hands on this as I am?

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Must-Have Mondays: The Warm Milk and Honey Massage at Glow Skin Spa

All right, this beauty chick is doing things a bit differently for this week's edition of Must-Have Mondays! While this column is usually product-focused, I simply have to tell you about one of the best massage experiences ever ... making it the perfect candidate for Must-Have Mondays!

Last week I treated myself to a massage at Glow Skin Spa. I had been quite curious about this spa for awhile -- it has tons of fantastic reviews on Citysearch and the spa's website is just so sleek and amazing-looking. Plus, their treatments all sound fantastic! So after much deliberation, I decided on the Warm Milk and Honey Massage, which involves hot compresses soaked with almond milk and organic honey that are applied to the back and shoulders throughout the massage. I also decided to go for broke with the 90-minute version. (Seriously, I went a little broke -- it's $210!)

As I walked into the spa, I was greeted kindly by the receptionist and shown to the small but adorable waiting room. Shortly thereafter, I was picked up by Gillian, my massage therapist for the day, and led to a dim, soothing treatment room. Gillian began by asking whether I had any areas I specifically wanted her to work on (I did -- my lower back has been killing me), and made sure I didn't have any product allergies. After I laid down on the table, Gillian placed some of those delicious-smelling soaked compresses on my shoulders and went to work kneading the pain and tension out of my lower back.

She left no stone unturned, really going to town on my knots and making sure they were all, well, unknotted. The pressure was perfect -- not too light, not too heavy. As she moved to my upper back, she placed more hot compresses on my lower back and legs, and then worked her magic on my tenser-than-tense shoulders. (Sitting in an office chair for 8-10 hours a day really builds up the tension!) I literally drifted off to sleep on the table during the massage, as Gillian's strokes were utterly soothing and coma-inducing. As I woke up (I'm not sure how long I was out!), Gillian was finishing the massage.

I can honestly say this massage is a must-have. I haven't felt so relaxed or at ease in weeks! Even over a week later, I'm still so much less tense and my back is barely hurting. If you balk at the idea of spending $210 for the full 90 minutes, don't worry! There are 30-minute and 60-minute versions as well ($75 and $140, respectively). Trust me -- your body will thank you!

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The Beauty Blog Network: The Weekend Beauty Read

Curious about what my fellow bloggers from The Beauty Blog Network were talking about this week? Then it's time to check out The Weekend Beauty Read, of course!

The Makeup Divas reviews Mac Fafi Lipsticks.

The Daily Cookie brings you the scoop behind Danity Kane's Welcome to the Dollhouse album cover photoshoot. Check out her exclusive Q&A with makeup artist JJ Jacobucci!

Beauty Anonymous brings you Chanel Limited-edition Highlighting Powders Duo!

A Touch of Blusher picks the top 10 spring 2008 collections.

Mischo Beauty shares a lesson on sun damage and the importance of using sunscreen.

Temtpalia has a weekend getaway you're bound to enjoy at the Pacific Palms Resort & Spa.

Raging Rouge gets her drink on in the only way a pregnant woman can... with tarte Cheek Stain in Tipsy.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic shows you how to recreate Stila's look from Wayne Lee Fall 2008! The

Beauty of Life finds a way to keep her skin sparkling with Bliss Steep Clean!

Cybelesays checks out the latest in organic fragrances with a new favorite from Tsi~La

Stylish Opinion finds any reason, any reason at all, to try out caffeinated soap.

The Beauty Blog Network interviews new member Mischo Beauty.

Elke shares her fav drugstore beauty products.

Beauty and Personal Grooming tells you to cover your gray with touch-up sticks.

Sure you’re in love with your flat iron, but are your strands silky straight and FLAT? StyleBell shows you how to Volumize Straight Strands.

Beauty Blogging Junkie has fallen for the crazy spatula-like applicator and holographic shine of this lip gloss by Thierry Mugler.

The Muse Hauls Heatherette! Check out her first impressions on this new MAC Collection!.

Ever thought about changing your hair because someone else says you should? Mystical Beauty's Musings tells you why you shouldn't in Cutting Long Hair

Savvy Skin realizes most of her favorite skin care and beauty items are Old-School Beauty Products.

marina from makeup loves me meets the heatherette boys (pictures included!) and checks out their collaboration with MAC.

Makeup Moxie has a tragic love affair with Sue Devitt Microquatic Lash Line Enhancer

Glossypink has found the pale pink lipstick of her dreams!

Face Candy looks at the new Guerlain Terracotta goodies.

Toya tried the tarte health couture collection and she's feeling healthy, beautiful, and oh so couture!

Product Girl takes a peek at Creative Scentualization's Perfumers Palette.

Pursebuzz.com tries a new look with Heatherette Pigments, check out the video tutorial here!

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gives you swatches of Chanel's new summer makeup collection, woot!

Spoiled Pretty has found the definitive eyebrow kit. Find out what it is!

Don't miss your chance to enter All Lacquered Up's Sally Hansen Giveaway. You could be one of three winners to receive the Tracey Reese for Sally Hansen Salon line collection.

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Beauty Deals: Victoria's Secret Beauty Tote!

Don't you love gifts with purchase? This beauty chick sure does. And what's better than spending $50 on beauty products at Victoria's Secret -- not a hard thing to accomplish -- and getting not only a totally glam tote bag but 13 amazing beauty samples inside? I'm seriously in love with this deal, because the pink leather tote with zebra-print inset is super-posh, and the samples you get are just too good for words! Here's what you'll receive:

Thierry Mugler Innocent Secret
Hampton Sun Privet Bloom
Michael Kors Island Capri
Borba Firming Diamond Shimmer Contour Lotion
Booty Parlor Add Magic
Supermile Whitening Toothpaste
Clarins Radiance-Plus Self Tanning Body Lotion
Joey Correct-A-Line Face Serum
Strivectin-SD
Patricia Wexler M.D. Dermatology MMMPi-20 Skin Regenerating Serum
Very Sexy Makeup Mini Mascara
Secret Garden Collection Body Wash
Beauty Rush Lip Gloss in I Want Candy

Getting these goodies is so simple. Just spend $50 on beauty products on the Victoria's Secret website now through April 1, enter GETGLAM at checkout and voila! This will all be yours! Happy shopping!

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Let's Play Tag! (Courtesy of The Daily Cookie!)

While perusing the lovely Lilan's blog (The Daily Cookie) today, I noticed that she tagged me in her Let's Play Tag post! There are two top five posts that I now must respond to. So, here they are!

My Five Must-NOT Have Items
1) Lancome Nutrix Soothing Treatment Cream -- I am a fan of pretty much everything Lancome, but unfortunately this moisturizer made me break out almost the second I put it on my skin! Scary!
2) Benefit Galactic Shield! Concealer -- I was really excited about this product, but let me tell you -- IT DOES NOTHING. And I really, really, really wanted it to! I tried it over and over and just never saw any results.
3) Herbal Essences Dangerously Straight Shampoo and Conditioner -- Wow, was my hair greasy for days after using these. It took about a week to get all the grease out! Ick.
4) Concealer or foundation of any type -- I steer clear of these because they make me break out! Without any foundation or concealer on, I may have a couple blemishes from time to time but at least for the most part my skin stays young and fresh-looking.
5) Beauty Rehab Rose Salve -- Again, I was quite excited to try this after learning about it at the Henri Bendel Beauty Breakfast. But one swipe on my lips and I was totally turned off ... it didn't moisturize or smooth them at all and it tasted like cold cream! Umm ... gross.

My Five Biggest Makeup Crimes
1) I definitely don't floss as much as I should. I'm probably at about 4 days a week -- I don't know what happens the other 3, I guess I'm just lazy!
2) I don't always wash my makeup off before bed! Call it tiredness, call it plain laziness, sometimes my eyeliner and mascara get all over my pillowcase during the night because I just didn't feel like taking it off!
3) Lack of loyalty to massage therapists and facialists -- It's not that I don't love the people I've gone to, but I just always want to try new spas, treatments and aestheticians.
4) Sometimes I forget to put on moisturizer before bed!
5) I don't wear sunscreen often enough. And yes, I know this is terrible, especially because I walk to work and definitely have the sun beating on me every day. I know I should protect my face and hands ... again, chalk it up to pure laziness.

These were fun -- thanks to Lilan! I'm going to tag Delphine of Steeping Beauty, Kitiya of Mischo Beauty and Joy of Makeup Junkie. Have fun, ladies!

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First Look Fridays: Makeup Artist Jenna Menard

I am pleased to bring you this week's edition of First Look Fridays, featuring makeup artist Jenna Menard! Jenna graduated from Lafayette College with a degree in Psychology in 2003 and currently lives in NYC. I met this lovely gal months back at a Ralph Lauren fashion shoot and instantly was impressed by her kind demeanor, impeccably done makeup and flawless fashion sense! Jenna has worked with top photographers like Raymond Meier, Nigel Parry and Eric Ogden and has had a slew of fantastic editorial clients such as Elle, Vanity Fair and Vogue! I'm so thrilled to bring you my Q&A with Jenna.

How did you first become interested in makeup, and what led you to become a makeup artist?
My mom is a hairstylist and runs a salon from home so I grew up watching transformations being made with hairstyles. I was exposed to something very early that caught my attention and it was the power of making people feel beautiful. During high school I played around with makeup, but it never crossed my mind that I would want to do makeup as a career. I remember mixing loose powders after getting home from vacation because I felt that one color wasn't matching my skin close enough so I took matters into my own hands by mixing up just the right shade. I always enjoyed playing around with makeup and exploring what I could do different and how it could change a look. It wasn't until college when I started realizing that I, like my mother, was capable of making others feel beautiful, but instead of doing their hair I did their makeup. The summer before I graduated I had an internship at Tony&Tina Cosmetics where I worked in the office doing PR, product development or whatever they needed me to do in addition to being one of their freelance makeup artists. After doing makeup for my first event a few people from the office suggested I pursue being a makeup artists for a living because they said I had a natural “knack” and already came across as a professional make up artist. With their guidance and support I decided to go for it! I went back to school and worked on finding a internship in the industry after I graduated. While still in school I had the privilege of being introduced to famed costume designer Ann Roth and she then introduced me to Bernadette Mazur who I assisted on the set of The Stepford Wives the summer after I graduated college. After a few months of film I decided that I wanted to focus on fashion so I worked on my portfolio and started my career as a freelance makeup artist in the fashion industry. The rest is history!

Have you worked with any makeup artists that inspired you? What did they teach you?
Early on in my career but after my film internship I was lucky to work with some of the most prestigious makeup artists in the industry -- Pat McGrath, Tom Pecheux and Dick Page. After doing shows with all of these artists I then started working closer with both Tom Pecheux and Dick Page on more than just the shows. When you are able to spend time with makeup artists outside of the shows you are then exposed to so much more. In the beginning you are learning from other artists by just watching and as you develop yourself as an artist you actually then start to learn from each other. I can’t even begin to list all I have learned from these artists ... it would go on forever and ever!

What are some of the shoots and shows you've worked on that have stood out as highlights in your career?
Marc Jacobs is always my favorite show because we never know what to expect before we get there. It’s always a massive production and a great show season after season!

What are the products and brands you simply can't live without in your makeup case?
Giorgio Armani foundations
Biotherm AquaSource moisturizer
MD Skincare continuous eye hydration
Laura Mercier concealers
Cinema Secrets brush cleaner
Crealine or Darphin cleansing water
Evian Water Spray
Makeup Forever grease paint palette
Shiseido Accentuating Color Stick
Benefit Lipscriptions

What are your top 3 makeup tips?
1) Great skin will make you look fresh, healthy and awake so take care of your skin!
2) Never overdo it: don’t over-pluck your brows, don’t cover something that doesn’t need to be covered, don’t load up on the blush, know your limits and what looks best on you!
3) SMILE :)

Playing with makeup must be fun -- but what do you for fun outside of being a makeup artist?
I tend to stay very busy with work most of the time because even if I am not shooting or working with a personal client I have to invoice and keep on top of all of my office duties! I do step away from makeup when I have the opportunity to. Last month I organized a team that participated in the Colon Cancer Challenge in Central Park. Last summer I trained for and ran in the Chicago Marathon and since then running has become a hobby of mine. I am currently planning a Memorial Walk and 5k run in Doylestown for a high school friend and classmate, Colby Umbrell, who was killed in Iraq last May. I also make necklaces if I have some down time. It's pretty safe to say I keep myself busy all the time ... it's hard for me to sit idle.

Thanks so much to Jenna for participating in First Look Fridays! For more information on her and to see her fabulous portfolio, you can visit her website. Again, thanks to the fantastic Jenna Menard!

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Piercing Screams Heard Round The World

My least favorite job of all time? I pierced ears at Afterthoughts (an offshoot of Claire's) for one summer while I was in college. It was the most horrific experience I've ever had. Every time someone wanted a piercing, my hands shook uncontrollably as I marked their ears and loaded the gun. (Miraculously, they always stopped shaking when I did the actual piercing -- so the holes were always accurate!) I vowed never to get near a piercing gun again after leaving Afterthoughts ... and to stop with the piercing of my own ears, since I already had five holes.

So when I read about the Studex Personal Piercer Piercing Earrings on Lucky's beauty blog today, I was immediately terrified. Earrings that you use to pierce your ears yourself? I'm sorry, but is Sally Beauty Supply crazy?!? Supposedly these are easy to load and just head right through the earlobe with precision, ease and minimal pain. But I'm sorry, I find that hard to believe! It hurt like heck every time I got mine pierced, and I didn't have to do it myself! I can't even imagine the fear that would go into trying to shoot one of those through my ears. But if you're curious about them, you can view more info on Sally Beauty Supply's website and then head to a Sally Beauty Supply store to pick them up for yourself. What do you think of these? Must-have beauty product ... or torture device?

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Trend-Filled Thursdays: Heavily Defined Eyes

A huge trend seen on the runways for Fall 2008? Eyes that were so heavily defined, you could see them from outer space! Well, maybe that's a slight exaggeration. But in all honesty, eyes were a huge focus this season. There were romantic looks seen at Alberta Ferretti, Bill Blass and Giorgio Armani, and traffic-stopping versions on the runways at Balenciaga, Christian Dior and Monique Lhuillier. Some designers really stepped outside the box, like the winged green liner seen at Miu Miu and the dramatic cat eyes at Viktor & Rolf. Whatever the case was, it was definitely all about the eye. So this week's Trend-Filled Thursdays column is, of course, about heavily defined eyes!

THE NEW ROMANTICS
Black liner rimmed the top and bottom lashlines at many a show for Fall 2008. This was often paired with clear, glowing skin and a nude lip to really draw your focus up to the eyes. The overall effect? Pure sexiness, but with a romantic inclination that makes these looks perfect for everything from work to cocktails. This look is definitely the most wearable.
gorgeous cat eyes at Alberta Ferretti
pairing liner with lush lashes at Giorgio Armani
slightly smudged at Karl Lagerfeld

TO GET THE LOOK:
Try a liquid eyeliner to get those precise lines. NARS Liquid Eyeliner in Angel Heart ($27.50) is a gorgeously deep black.
Lips should definitely be left alone here -- or at least people should think they were! Philosophy Big Mouth in Nude ($22) will give your pout just the right amount of shine.

THE FANTASTICAL
It was all about showing off for some designers this season. Forget muted, these looks were over-the-top and not apologizing for it! While they might not transfer so well to every day life (unless you moonlight as a drag queen or are going to a Studio 54 party), who cares? Makeup is all about having fun and experimenting, and these looks took that idea to new heights!
winging it at Balenciaga
mixing it up with blues and purples at Monique Lhuillier
a total whiteout at Christian Dior

TO GET THE LOOK:
Add pizazz to your eyes with a sparkly liner, such as LORAC Eye Shadow/Liner in Midnight Sparkle ($16). Since it doubles as a shadow, you can really go all out and sparkle like a disco ball!
A glossy nude lip packs just the right amount of punch for this look -- it doesn't detract from the eyes! Try Stila Lip Glaze in Apricot ($22).

DRAMATIC IN BLACK
Taking it one step further than the romantic looks seen above, these designers decided to play up the eyes even more. Instead of keeping liner close to the lashline, it thickened and winged out. While it's a bit much to try this for the office, why not do your own interpretation on your next night out?
using a hint of shimmer at Chado Ralph Rucci
deep black rims at Givenchy
bringing it to the inner corners at Jean Paul Gaultier
bold and dramatic at Lanvin

TO GET THE LOOK:
Try Smashbox Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner in Midnight Black ($22). Rimming your eyes with this crease-resistant cream liner will really make them pop!
Give your lips and cheeks a subtle flush with Sephora Lush Flush Wine Lip & Cheek Stain ($10). It's formulated with red wine extract to give you just the subtlest hint of color.

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