LookGirl beautifies

Wedding belles

2008-03-26T07:15:00.001-07:00

LOVE YOUR LOOK: I know I obsess a little too much about Benefit's products, but the company is constantly coming out with great new additions to the line and improving upon steadfast favorites. Good lead up to introducing the new limited edition colors for their wedding season '08 collection, Love Your Look. The lipsticks I could take or leave, but I just love the new subtle shimmer hues of the creaseless cream shadows — they are just perfect for spring, and for that natural, timeless look you want for a wedding. I think I am going to go out and get Bunny Hop, I'm a natural Lana.

Pretty in pink

2008-03-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad the bold shades for fall/winter nails are breaking free and making room for sweet, delicate shades for spring/summer. I just love Summer Love from Calvin Klein's brand new line — a barely-there pink with a silver finish. Perfecto. And at only $10, it's a great deal.

Other good buys?
» Several companies are doing a pen applicator for this season, but I think Sally Hansen is the winner with this great fast-drying product available in several colors — my favorite is Sheer Pink. And you just can't beat the price, especially since I really think you aren't sacrificing quality on this one.

» OPI's new India collection is rich with color, but back to the basics in a lot of ways. While Black Cherry Chutney is fantastic, it's too dark for spring. I really like ElePhantastic Pink, not only for its name, but its carnation hue (the flower gets a bad rap!).

Nourish-Mint deal

2008-03-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

Check out the deal of the day from Aveda (via my e-mail):

The blow out obsession

2008-03-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, Look Girl fashion sent me a link to a New York Times article about the new trend of forgoing washing your hair and just getting a blow out once a week. I knew about the trend a little and that a lot of New York gals are doing it, but, well, eww. Really? My hair's greasy (at least up front) after just two days. Anyway, in the past few days I feel like I have been bombarded with products, e-mails and advertisements along these same lines of extending your blow out. Watching my secret love, wedding shows, on Style Network, there were ads linking to their Web site for tips on this trend and endorsing Ted Gibson's Hair Sheet to absorb the oil. Sephora sent me an e-mail with staff picks, including a vote for Oscar Blandi's Pronto Dry Shampoo Spray saying, "I can't live without Pronto! I'm a city girl who is too busy and lazy to wash my hair but once a week." I even got an e-mail from the Sunday Source editors at The Washington Post saying that you should "keep your paws off your head" and backing Bumble & Bumble’s spray-on Hair Powder. They also suggested that "budget-minded ladies can try shaking a bit of baby powder along roots. Either way, don’t forget to blend." I've tried that trick in the past, as well as Bumble & Bumble's product, but it doesn't really work, at least not for me. I'll be honest, I'm still not sold on the not washing your hair kick; how busy/lazy can you really be? What about you, dear readers?

Dual sided

2008-03-10T14:48:00.001-07:00

I've been trying to clear out the clutter and craziness that is my bathroom at home, trying to give away loads of samples and products I've received and use up all those half-empty bottle. Well, after finishing my Aveda Outer Peace cleanser last week (the line is just ehh, but the foaming cleanser is pretty good), I decided to open the biggest container of cleanser I had, one that was taking up some serious real estate in the drawer. RoC Daily Microdermabrasion Cleansing Disks was something I'd been holding onto for a while because I wasn't quite sure of the "dual sided pads." Well, I'm sure of them now; I love them and the way they leave my skin silky smooth. What it is, is a little disk-like pouch that you (1) slip your three middle fingers into, (2) starting with the exfoliating side, wet it and then circle it around your face for a moment, (3) then dampen the cleanser/moisturizing side and do the same, (4) rinse. Easy.

Say goodbye raccoon eyes

2008-03-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

Some good makeup tips from the editors at Martha Stewart Wedding, of all places:

According to Martha Stewart Weddings beauty director Elizabeth Graves, undereye circles are the number one complaint women have when it comes to their complexions. ... But before you start reaching for the spackle, listen to Elizabeth: She says the biggest mistake we make is overcorrecting — leading to the unfortunate half-moon look. You want to use a shade of concealer that's barely one shade lighter than your natural complexion and an even lighter hand. In fact, you should start by using a brush to apply a bit of foundation to the problem area. If darkness is still visible, then brush on a thin (careful now!) layer of creamy, opaque concealer like Laura Mercier Secret Concealer or Bobbi Brown Eye Brightener. (The latter actually reflects light, further camouflaging pesky circles.) ...

Well Beauty

2008-03-06T11:40:00.000-08:00

Just as an FYI: Tomorrow, select Nordstrom stores and online at nordstrom.com will launch their "Well Beauty" cosmetics boutiques with eco-friendly skincare products from brands like Korres, Juice Beauty Organics, Pangea Organics and CARE by Stella McCartney. Recyclable packaging is a given, some can even be planted to grow flowers.

Goodies giveaway

2008-03-05T14:43:00.000-08:00

For all of those coming to LookGirl stays stylish's Project Runway finale party tonight, I have cleaned out all of my cabinets and am bringing bag loads (yes, you heard that right, bags, plural) of beauty products for all your delight. Enjoy!

P.S. Yes, that's a picture of Giorgio Armani!

Bubble & Lo

2008-02-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

Famed NYC makeup artists Virginia Meyers and Laura Nadeau, who specialize in doing up faces for the big day (aka your wedding), have created a Web site filled with videos and tips on how to do what they do in your own home. Plus, they are really good about answering readers' questions and their blog has loads of photos from past events they have done to give you inspiration and they tell you how they did it! It's a good site to check out if you have a special event coming up, or if you just need to refresh your day-to-day routine.

Spring cleaning

2008-02-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

CALMING AROMAS: Forego the facial at the spa and save a little money by trying this home treat:
Put on a kettle of water and wash your face while the water comes to a boil. Put a tablespoon each of lavender and rosemary into a large bowl, and add a few drops of peppermint oil and a chamomile tea bag. Pour the hot water into the bowl and cover with a towel for 3-4 minutes. After steeping, hold your face over the bowl, no closer than six inches above, and use the towel as a tent over your head so you create a mini sauna. Let the steam hit you for about five minutes, and then apply your favorite mask. Wash off and follow with moisturizer, eye cream and lip balm. The steam will open your pores, allowing the mask to do its work more effectively. Now take that $100 you saved and buy a massage, those are harder to recreate on your own.

The new naturals

2008-02-27T08:27:00.001-08:00

I finally got a chance to read through the Spring '08 TIME Style & Design supplement this morning on my commute into work and, like I am with many articles in the mainstream media, was disappointed that the articles (namely the beauty ones) were of "hot trends" that started a couple years ago. The two pieces, one on the pros and cons of organic products and a shorter one on the benefits açaí berries (not on the Web), were trends that I wrote about two years ago. I have gone to the Natural Products Expo East for the past four years, so maybe I have an advantage, but why wasn't TIME there, too? Anyway, here are some summaries:

• A Closer Look At Labels by Alice Park

... If you've finally discovered the creamiest cleanser or the perfect shade of lip gloss, does it really matter that it isn't made with renewable, eco-friendly ingredients? Well, as it turns out, it does—to more and more consumers. ... Globally, sales of natural and organic cosmetics reached an estimated $7 billion last year. .... Some of that growth will be driven by brands already known for their reliance on botanicals and natural ingredients that are now turning to organics. Aveda's founder is developing a new line of head-to-toe organic products under the Intelligent Nutrients label, while Kiehl's will soon market its first product with a certified organic ingredient, argan oil, sourced from Morocco and coveted for its rich moisturizing effects. ... But there are currently no mandated government standards defining organic when it comes to cosmetics. ... [Also], the National Organic Program is a marketing program, not a safety rating, so earning the USDA's organic seal does not necessarily mean a potion won't cause an allergic reaction or a flare-up of dermatitis. ... The USDA label, however, requires that only 95% of the ingredients in an organic product be organically grown. ... Components such as vitamin E as a stabilizer and citric acid to balance pH, neither of which can be found or produced in a completely organic form yet. Products with less than 95% of organic ingredients can still claim to be organic ... but they are no longer eligible for USDA certification. If products contain from 70% to 94.9% of organic elements ... their labels can claim that they are made with organic materials. ... If you are choosing organic products because you believe that [they] are better for your skin and body, you may want to consider this: "Any benefits are sure to be incremental at best." ... In fact, many natural and organic ingredients come in oil form, and there are people who cannot tolerate these oils regardless of how "pure" they are. ... Because they are made with natural ingredients and essential oils as preservatives, organic cosmetics generally have half the shelf life ...

• Amazonian Wonder by Betsy Kroll

Açaí berries, packed full of antioxidants, may be the secret to perfect skin. ... Antioxidants, commonly found in fruits and vegetables, are the body's defense against free radicals–reactive chemicals that are needed to destroy viruses and bacteria but can be harmful to healthy cells. Fast-acting radicals are the hardest to scavenge, and ... in tests, açaí proved better at it that nearly any other fruit. "The palm tree that has the açaí berries is the canopy [in the Amazon forests]. It's berries are strongly exposed to ultraviolet radiation and have had to develop chemical strategies to deal with it." Which makes them an invaluable resource for skin health. ... Fresh's Sugar Açaí Age-Delay Body Cream, along with Borba's Age Defying Skincare line, is among the first beauty products to harness the berry's benefits ...

Other top picks

2008-02-26T09:52:00.000-08:00

As promised in my Top 10 post, I have some other favorites that I used constantly that simply didn't fall into the categories, and I wanted to share some of them with you, my wonderful readers:

#1 polish

Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear ($3-$5) — Of all the expensive nail polishes on the market, I have never found one that dries as quickly and stays on so long without chipping as this one. I don't love this particular color (that's what I get for snagging images off the Web), but they do have a really wide range of hues to choose from and I have several of them. For $3, why not? I used the Black Out shade all of last winter when everyone else was spending $19 on Chanel and having to touch up every couple of days.

Refreshing scent

Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne ($50 for 1 oz or $95 for 3.4 oz) — This has been my signature scent since it was released probably about two years ago, maybe longer. I have bottles of it at home, work, everywhere and can't even remember the last time I used anything else, or even liked anything else I sampled. The scent is so delicate and not at all too sweet with nectars of peach, plum and blackcurrant with the added richness of honey, amazing.

Toothpick alternative

Crest Glide Dee p Clean Floss To Go ($3-$4.50) — These little packets of individual-use floss are so itty bitty and discrete that I carry them everywhere. I often find myself in the bathroom of a restaurant flossing after a meal, but who would know the difference — except my date if I had a big piece of spinach stuck between my bicuspids. The floss never shreds and is flavored Cool Mint, to make that delicious garlic stench go away.

Whiter smile, fresher breath

Go Smile Touch Up Mini On-The-Go Smile Refresher ($8) — After a cup of joe, there is nothing better. Same with red wine, cigarettes, berries. These little sticks, again very discrete, remove any stains food or drink may leave behind, they whiten and shine teeth, and they make your breath yummy to boot.

Skin perfecter/deshiner

Nurturing Force T-Zone H elp Oil Control ($10-$14) — These are by far the best blotters I've ever come across, and I've tried many. I discovered them a year and a half ago at the Natural Products Expo, as they are all natural, and I haven't used anything else since. How they get 29-plus feet of paper into that tiny roll baffles me, but I just love that you can tear off as little or lot as you need.

Color Fever

2008-02-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

SHEER RASP: Be the first on your block to pucker up with Lancome's newest addition to its Pout-a-Porter collection. Color Fever Shine Pixel Pink ($25), worn by all the models during designer Thakoon's spring 2008 fashion show, was the creation of makeup artist Gucci Westman.

Haircare, fierce

2008-02-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

Thank you Rachel Ray! This morning my favorite chic product tester, Lara, let me know about the horrid new Marc Jacob's shirts for skin cancer awareness with, of course, naked celebs on them. But more importantly, she let me know about two great new beauty products on the market:

Warren Tricomi's new mini Chi-like hot iron ($90) is so adorable. At 6 inches, it heats up to 400 degrees in less than 3 minutes making it perfect for an after-work touch-up before cocktails or a wonderful travel accessory. Also, because of how thin it is, it's great for short hair — I'm sure Christian will be looking into it, it's fierce!
Amazing hair stylist to the stars, Sally Hershberger, who charges like $600 for a cut and basically invented the shag, just released a totally affordable line of haircare products. Available at Walgreens of all places, none of the items are more than $20 and Lara was just raving about them. I can't wait to run out and try them, I just need to figure out where the closest Walgreens is... The cool thing about her Web site, too, is that there are instructional videos on how to use the various products. For years I've been trying to master that salon look at home, maybe this is it.

Top 10 picks

2008-02-21T08:55:00.000-08:00

So, the March 2008 Domino magazine (you know, the home decor rag done by the folks at Lucky) was about green decorating and living an eco-friendly lifestyle and it was the lamest thing I've ever had the chance to peruse. Thankfully, I myself was eco-friendly in that I "recycled" it by taking it from my gym, thus saving paper and my wallet, and someone else from wasting 15 minutes. The ideas were truly uninspiring and many were not at all new concepts. The decor and homes they chose to feature were mediocre at best and nothing I haven't seen before. Lame. Anyway, so you're asking yourself why this post is on a beauty blog, right? Well, for the home decor publication, they had a "nesting" article that featured the "Perfect 10" beauty products, done by their beauty editor. Why does a HOME magazine have a beauty editor? It was so amazingly out of place, and it showed since most of the picks were pretty lame. Beauty choices are in large part personal preference due to skin tone, sensitivity and composition. But regardless, an Avon product has absolutely no place ever on a top 10 anything — and I have tried a lot of them in my tenure as a beauty editor. You can see the layout for yourself at right, and click on it to view larger, but I have a feeling you'll be as disappointed as I. So, I decided that I was going to do my own top 10 list of products that actually work — and don't make your lips stick together because the "#1 lip gloss" Lancome Juicy Jelly is so gooey. I'm skipping hair care and nails, as well as perfume and other "accessories" that I may touch on in a different post. This is more to line up with Domino's categories. Also, although I sample products from all price ranges because, well, I get free samples, I find that most of my favorites are the middle-of-the-road choices anyway; none of these will break the bank. So, in no particular order:

Everyday cream

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion ($23 for 125 ml pump bottle) — There are lots of great moisturizers I've used over the years, but the best is still the first one I ever tried, and probably the first for most gals (free gift with purchase!). The little yellow bottle is a staple for my beauty bag and its contents go on incredibly light and smooth, and just melt into skin. RUNNER-UP: CARE by Stella McCartney 5 Benefits Moisturising Cream ($76) — This quite-pricey lotion is worth it for anyone with very sensitive skin, or a sensitive heart, as this is completely organic with no petrochemicals or silicones, and isn't tested on animals. There is a very light scent, which is surprising at first, but the satiny texture absorbs into skin and you almost radiate with moisture.

Rough-skin rx

Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub ($25) — Made with real delicious fruits, the itty-bitty seeds very gently exfoliate, but the true trick is to leave it on your skin for three minutes or so, and then wipe it off with a washcloth. You will never feel your skin any softer. Plus it smells good enough to eat.

Silky touch

Benefit Dr. Feelgood ($27) — Miracle product! That's all I need to say, except if you don't know what it is. The colorless, weightless balm goes on smooth to fill in any fine lines, large pores or wrinkles for a silky touch and matte, flawless skin. I've never seen anything else quite like it.

Flawless face base

Chanel Mat Lumiere Lon g Lastin g Soft Make up SPF 15 ($52) — This is by far the most expensive item on this list, but it will last just as long if not longer than the rest. This silky foundation goes on smoothly and covers your whole shana punim (pretty face, for those without Yiddish knowledge) and neck with just two little pumps. There are 12 shades to match any skintone and the formula actually absorbs oil to keep your face shine free all day long. RUNNER-UP: Benefit You Rebel and You Rebel Lite ($28) — I mentioned this product in a post recently and really just can't express how great it is for a light summer makeup application or for a light-weight base year-round.

Powdered up

Benefit Georgia ($28) — Peach may not seem to go with every skintone, but somehow this light, translucent powder matches most. It is light, refreshing, soaks up any oil on your face and best of all, it smells just like a light, fresh peach. Yum.

Rosey glow

Smashbox O-GLOW Intuitive Cheek Color ($26) — This amazing, light-weight gel goes onto cheeks and the goji berries react to your skin's chemistry, creating a great, natural rosey complexion that stays on all day. Plus, it is preservative and fragrance free, and like everything from Smashbox, is cruelty free. RUNNER-UP: Benefit Dallas ($28) — This blush and bronzer in one can be perfect for any skintone (if fair gals don't load up the brush) and really is just a sheer brush of color that looks like you just came in from outside.

#1 lip gloss

Bigelow Mentha Lip Tint #1138 ($5) — I love any of the Mentha line — which gives lips a luscious sheen, a healthy dose of vitamins and smells divine (and kind of curbs appetite?) — but this particular tint of theirs is my favorite for it's barely-there red hue. RUNNER-UP: Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil ($3) — This hydrating natural balm leaves lips kissably soft with delicious-tasting antioxidants and just a hint of color.

Easy shadow

Maybelline New York Dream Mousse Shadow ($5) — Light as a feather and perfect for a very quick application, any of the shades, if used lightly, are perfect highlight shades (I used lilac because I have hazel eyes) that you smooth under your brow line and on the inside of your eye. They are also great as primers for a full eye to do. RUNNER-UP: Stila Smoky Eye Palette ($40) — Ever wonder how to get that perfectly flawless smoky eye yourself at home? This palette is the best way to start. They compact literally talks you through the five-step process with tips on what brushes to use and how to personalize the look. And the colors are neutral and work on any skintone with any wardrobe.

Ultimate lash curler

S hu Uemura Mini Eyelash Curler ($17) — The only thing I agreed with the Domino beauty editor on is the shear-genius design, though this mini version is just as good as the big one, which is simply amazing at curling, but just a little smaller to fit in your makeup bag.

Best brushes

Aveda Flax Sticks ($11-$32) — Everyone has their favorite brushes, these are mine. The eco-friendly flax seed handles have just enough texture to give traction — there's nothing worse than a fine brush slipping while you're applying lip liner — and the non-animal bristles are luxuriously soft. My favorite by far is #12 Fine Eye Liner Brush since I love powder liner for a softer daytime look, but it is perfect to use for the entire eye and the soft hair is great for blending the different shades along my lid.

Beauty Awards they are

2008-02-21T08:54:00.001-08:00

These have been a couple of easy updates today just by checking my e-mail! Benefit, simply one of my favorite beauty companies of all time, in their signature style, sent this amazingly fun post to my inbox this morning. (Though their's had links to each of the products.) I have to admit, most of these products rank up there as my all-time favorites from any brand — and check back later today for a top 10 posting inspired by a recent magazine article that shouldn't have been. (Long story, but you'll see later...)

A Bliss-full world

2008-02-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

Thanks goes out to Daily Candy for letting me know:

SAVE
Bliss Sale
What: Stock up on scrumptious lotions and potions while they are up to 80 percent off (thru Feb. 24).
Why: It’s sheer bliss.
Where: Online at blissworld.com.

Ready, Set, Shoot

2008-02-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

CARGO's new blu_ray Collection was designed to fulfill the need makeup artists have for filming in high definition. So, basically, it gives the most seamless coverage of almost anything on the market. It minimizes fine lines and pores, but while surprisingly giving a pretty natural look and not making your face feel stiff and caked, like much heavy-duty makeup does.

blu_ray High Definition Mattifier ($24):

Vitamin E: A powerful free radical-fighting antioxidant that moisturizes and repairs minor damage on the surface of the skin.
Vitamin A: An antioxidant that balances and conditions the skin.

blu_ray Pressed Powder ($30):

Photochromatic Pigments: Adjust with ambient lighting so that the complexion looks natural yet perfected.
Optical Blurring Pigments: Create an optical blurring effect for a softer looking complexion.

blu_ray Blush/Highlighter ($27):

Photochromatic Pigments: Adjust with ambient lighting so that the complexion looks natural yet perfected.
Optical Blurring Pigments: Create an optical blurring effect for a softer looking complexion.

blu_ray Mascara ($20):

Panthenol: Contains nourishing and strengthening properties.
Keratin: Strengthens the natural structure of the lash by providing moisture and nourishment.

blu_ray Gloss ($29):

Hyaluronic Acid Spheres: Penetrate the skin and soak up water that your skin naturally looses, causing the spheres to swell and immediately plump your lips.
Amino Acid Peptide Chain: Promote the production of both collagen and elastin while strengthening the essential structure of the skin tissue and regenerating the skin cells to produce a softer and younger looking skintone.
Pearl Pigments: Creates the illusion of fuller, smoother lips.
Vitamin E: An effective antioxidant that helps to fight the damaging effects of free-radicals while nourishing and healing the skin.

Drink your lips

2008-02-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

After tarte and BORBA hooked up last year, I have been waiting for a take two. Well, tarte's new gloss for spring does just that — it combines yummy taste with awesome health benefits (yeah, in a gloss!) — but that there are other new lip products that just make you want to drink up:

tarte Double Dose ($21) — This high-shine gloss with added infused "superfruit" nutrients is perfect for spring with tart colors and mouth-watering flavors: Acai Boost (raspberry pink), Acerola Rush (golden peach), Go Go Goji (pink blush) and Pomegranate Punch (sheer red).
Philosophy Gelato collection ($10) — This new line of high-gloss lip plumpers is simply scrumptious — it's like walking into an Italian cafe but with an admittedly summer twist. Flavors include You Are My Sunshine Lemonade, Let Go Let Love Lime and Gratitude Pomegranate, amonst others. I don't know if I could say it better, mainly because I don't really know what these ingredients are... "Rich in tocotrienol, tocopherol, and sun-flower seed oil, it provides immediate hydration benefits while encouraging a plumped effect by using atelocollagen, a naturally derived ingredient from the sea."
Too Face FUZE Slenderize Guilt Free Lip Gloss ($18.50) — "Always on the lips, never on the hips!" What a slogan. Infused with delicious fruit flavors of FUZE Slenderize beverages — Dragonfruit Lime, Blueberry Raspberry etc. — these glosses have the same ingredients as the drinks that are supposed to be appetite curbing and energy boasting, and they make lips look amazingly juicy.
on10 ($9-$10, or trio tin for $16) — This new line of lipwear is good for your lips with healthy, all natural and organic ingredients to nourish, but is scrumptious with flavors like Hershey's milk chocolate, Dr. Pepper and Schweppes Sparkling Pink Grapefruit. These may make you want to smack your lips, but these ain't no Lipsmackers! They are packaged in really cute tins decorated with vintage signage. Too cute.

You're not alone

2008-02-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

Think you're alone in trying to hide all your beauty products every time you have guests over? Think again. According to a recent Real Simple Being Beautiful Study, based on women 25-54, they have an average of 34 products tucked into their medicine cabinets, wicker baskets, Lucite trays, Tupperware containers, bathroom caddies ... oh the list goes on forever where I even try to hide mine! Here are the full results of what the women surveyed said they had:

I know I have a lot more of some things and a lot less of others, but it's interesting nonetheless. And now you know, you are not alone!

Drumroll please: Valentine's 2008 picks

2008-02-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

I am not choosing "makeup" or fragrance here because it is all personal preference and you know what works best on you. (Check out this sexy little makeover Stila did for V-day.) But I am picking all-new items that, um, enhance your natural beauty for a more vavavoom you on the big night. Click here to see my picks last year, including lip scrub for a softer kiss, skin-clarifying chocolate bars and all sorts of massage oils. Also, don't forget to enter our Valentine's Day giveaway by Friday night in order to get your own sexy pout.

KISSABLE LIPS
• Smashbox O-GLOSS ($22) — Just like the company's popular blusher, this clear gel goes on lips and senses your skin's chemistry, transforming it to your own shade of pink. It may just pick up on the sense that there's chemistry about to happen! Plus, it's infused with all sorts of antioxidants to make lips kissably soft.
• DuWop Prime Venom ($20) — It's DuWop's famous lip plumper (one of the originals on the market, and one of the very few that actually work) made to coat lips in a soft formula that moisturizes and smooths, but remains matte — perfect for a base coat to add your red stain on top of. Pucker up those pouty lips.

SEXY EYES

• Bourjois Paris Volume Clubbing Mascara ($17) — This long-lasting (up to 10 hours!) mascara is made with vinyl to stay put and not flake. It is sweat proof, tear proof and friction proof, making it perfect for a long night in the bedroom — and you wont wake up in the morning with raccoon eyes.
• Cargo TexasLash Mascara ($20) — The Texas-sized brush coats lashes for Texas-sized volume and length. I'm not exactly sure what the "elastic polymer formulation" is they speak of, but I know it stops the mascara from flaking, smudging or running for a long night out.
• Sue Devitt Eye Int ensifier Kit ($42) — These three double-ended pencils/smudgers easily transform your eyes into a smoky, sensuous gaze. A must-have for everyday, let along Valentine's.

FRESH FACE
• Benefit Justine Case ($30) — A mini four-pack of Benefit's flawless face fixers that will fit in any purse for bathroom touch-ups: Some Kind-a Gorgeous for a flawless complexion; Benetint for rosy lips and cheeks; California Kissin' for a bright smile and minty breath; and Eyecon for fading dark circles.
• Philosophy The Urgent Care Kit ($45) — A compilation of Philosophy's must-have skincare cures that instantaneously fixes blotchy skin and reduces breakouts and redness. This is a great product to use a day or two ahead of a big event in order to clear up skin on the dime.

TOUCHABLE SKIN
• Origins Modern Friction for the Body ($34) — This is the best new rejuvenating skin buffer on the market. In three easy steps with just one simple product, you get amazingly silky soft skin with reduced wrinkles and spotting — and the scent is just simply divine.
• LAVANILA Laboratories The Healthy Body Butter ($25) — So, I know I said I wasn't going to put fragrance on here, but I just couldn't help myself when I came across this body butter. I just love the scents from LAVANILA, they are so light and pure and refreshing, which is more than I can say for most 'nilla fumes. These butters are just that, as they literally melt into your skin with 100 percent pure Shea and cocoa butters plus loads of antioxidants and vitamins. Nothing's sexier than silky skin.
• Jaqua Pink Champagne Hand Cream ($8) — I questioned even putting this on the list since there thousands of hand creams on the market and the only reason I love this one is the scent, which I prefaced the article by saying is personal preference, but... It's a great price and I can make some sort of joke about wearing what you drink, or something along those lines.

SET THE MOOD
• Kiki De Montparnasse Lavender Massage Candle ($48) — I don't even have anything to say beyond the Web site's description (so sexy!): Light the all-natural massage candle to ignite sensual touch. Burn the candle until partly liquid then slowly pour the warm wax — infused with nurturing soy, hemp, and Vitamin E — onto your lover's body. At the touch of skin, it becomes an intense, moisturizing massage oil. Hot enough to arouse the senses, but not too hot to hurt.

Valentine's Day giveaways

2008-02-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

While doing a bit of research for my Valentine's Day beauty picks (which I'll put up shortly), I rediscovered my favorite perfect-for-seduction beauty brand, Dianne Brill. Her products all come in cute packaging covered in lace and ribbon, and have wonderful lingerie names. How could you get better than that for Feb. 14? Plus, in each of her lipsticks, Ms. Brill dishes out some advise for a personal playful seduction tip. Anyway, the reason I am going on about all of this is that I am giving away one Dianne Brill lipstick and one lipgloss just in time for V-day. The "lip lingerie" up for grabs is Velvet Corset stick and Bullet Bra gloss. They are both just to die for and totally sensuous. TO ENTER: Just write a comment to this post giving me and our readers your favorite beauty secret (and an e-mail address or some way I can contact you), and I'll pick a winner at random by midnight Friday, Feb. 8. No rules or qualifications or anything, that simple.

Hooray for spring cleaning

2008-02-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

It's getting to be that time of year: spring cleaning. And we certainly don't mean to go home and clean out your front-hall closet; we mean that we're beyond excited that companies are cleaning out theirs! Check out Curtain Call, cruelty-free Smashbox's 25 percent to 50 percent off sale on their fall/winter collections, in which I picked up their limited edition pink highlighter for $18 instead of $24, and a Studio Seamless Liquid Foundation for $25 instead of $34. I also highly recommend the Eye Shadow Trio for $21, their amazing honey-scented lip gels for $9 and the Maxi Eyes Lash + Glue Kit for $9, which I have used and love. This is a great time to check out products that you were wondering about but didn't want to spend the big bucks, or to stock up on your favorites before they are gone forever. Oh, and another way you save: they have free U.S. shipping.

Top eight for '08

2008-02-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

With all the spring makeup hitting shelves this week, I wanted to showcase my favorite eyeshadow palettes of the season. Now some people love palettes, some don't, for a variety of reasons, namely that many include a color or two you may never touch. (Prime example: this one!) I think they are great because in a good compact, the family of hues compliment each other and offer a overall lid shade, a liner shade, a crease shade, a below-the-brow shade etc. to make a complete look that is effortless. So, without further ado, here are LookGirl's favorite palettes for spring 2008:

Laura Mercier Violet Eye Colour Quad in Shy Violet ($38) — The Wild Violet (center above) can be a tad too dark for everyday wear in the spring, but Shy offers a more all-around palette: deep eggplant for the liner, maroon shimmer for the crease, mauve for the lower lid and pale ivory pink for the highlight. Perfect.
Dior 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow in Spring Bouquet ($52) — You get five incredible shades for your big bucks, making it worthwhile. The quartet (second from left, above) is soft and subtle, made just for spring eyes, and can be worn by any skintone. Not the best reason, but it's just pretty.
Guerlain 'Fleur de Feu' Eyeshadow Palette in No. 400 ($57) — I don't think I can describe it better than Guerlain did: "This elegant limited-edition black gold compact, designed by Hervé Van Der Straeten, opens to reveal a fabulous pop-art-like floral bouquet. The slightly psychedelic ash grey and pink floral design represents an extraordinary South African flower that was ravaged by fire: the symbol of nature's triumph and the ideal metaphor for casting off winter gloom." (That's the first image above, if you hadn't already guessed.)
Smashbox Green Room Eye Shadow Quad in Blossom ($32) — Similar to the colors in Laura Mercier's new compact, this offers an all-around eye grouping but has slightly lighter, peachier hues that add much more sparkle. Not the right colors for everyone, but the bonus of this set is that with each purchase, a Moringa tree will be planted in a developing country by Trees for the Future.
Givenchy Accessor'Eyes Powder & Cream Eyeshadow Quartet in Black Denim ($49.50) — The boldest of our choices (fourth from the left, above), the Givenchy compact is also the only one that combines different textures, three to be exact, to multiply the effects. This is definitely a nighttime look, but the great peach tin with flecks of purple could translate into a more universal daytime shade.
Trish McEvoy 'Power of Makeup' Page - Resort ($65) — So this is our little cheat since it is more than just an eyeshadow palette, containing lip color, blush and bronzer. But the four shadows on this "page" are a perfect example of highlight, lid, crease and liner combos — and they are four shades that can work year-round, with any color eyes, any outfit, day or night.
Sephora Colorful Story Palette ($35) — The best value here with 16 of Sephora's best-selling hues, but this could be both a fashion-disaster and money-waster if not used properly. With more than a dozen colors, it is not always inherent which shades compliment each other, and which ones compliment you and your skintone. The reason we do like this set, however, is that Sephora did a good job at clarifying which shades are matte, pearl etc. and also, the way the set is organized, if you just use a row at a time, you are relatively safe.
Stila Eye Shadow Quad in Marrakesh ($38) — These universally flattering shades of rose, gold and bronze have loads of shimmer for a night out or daytime party, but they are a little too orangy to move up on the list.

The lite stuff

2008-02-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

How excited was I when I saw that Benefit was introducing a lighter shade of my favorite-for-summer SPF 15 tinted moisturizer, You Rebel. The only reason the product was my summer face and not year-round, was that my fair skin couldn't handle the strong tint in non-sunny months. For $28 this product will last for months and stays on your skin all day without any oil or sticky feeling — only freshness. Don't be a rebel, wear it!

A new warming sensation

2008-02-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

Want to know the secret as to why salon massages and pedis are so soothing and relaxing — beyond the fact it's done by professionals, of course — it's because the lotion and/or oils they rub in are warm, opening pores and letting them sink into your sore muscles. You can easily create that gentle heat at home to help penetrate dry, tired skin. First, find a small microwave-safe bowl. Put just a tiny bit of your lotion in the container and microwave it for 10 seconds. If all goes well, your lotion should be warm but not hot, and still intact. If the oils separate, use a smaller container, less time or a different moisturizer. Apply it to your skin and enjoy the sensation. ADDED BONUS: This is the perfect time of the year for this simple trick, and not only because skin is extra dry because of the cold outside, but because you can practice on your significant other for a romantic night at home.

Be your most sensuous self

2008-02-01T12:06:00.001-08:00

EXAMINING LAST YEAR'S V-DAY PICKS: These two pages appeared leading up to Valentine's Day 2007 in The Examiner newspaper. Most, if not all, of the products should still be available to purchase. (Click on them to make them large enough to read.) I will also be giving you some new V-day picks in the next few days in order to be the most sensuous you come Feb. 14.

A trip to the mall

2008-01-31T11:12:00.000-08:00

After a week's worth of Lean Cuisines at my desk, I decided today I need to get out. Somehow I ended up at the mall across from work (surprisingly, that doesn't happen a lot). Walking past Ann Taylor, I noticed they have new bodycare and fragrance lines (just like NY&Co), which happened to disappointed me. The only scent that wasn't Bath & Body Works-worthy was Silver Tea Citrus Flower, and that was only OK. This inspired me, however, and I decided to check out some other stores. Really, for someone who writes about beauty daily, I rarely end up in mall beauty shops. I first entered Douglas because, truthfully, I'd never been inside and the larger-than-life posters of Heidi Klum were enticing. I was completely underwhelmed by the mix of higher-end lines and drugstore finds. The sales help was nonexistent and the makeup stations looked like a hurricane had hit. I am willing to keep in mind that it could just be this particular store, but really the only redeeming factor was that they had several brands I like in one place, and there isn't a Sephora or Ulta within miles. Next was The Body Shop, which I was a regular at in the '90s but hadn't stepped foot inside since (mainly because just walking by the store gives me hives). I took a deep breath, walked in, and was completely underwhelmed. I knew they started carrying makeup a year or so ago, but never checked out the collection because I'd heard it wasn't worth it — true. I did happen to like the makeup brushes, however, which are all natural, unlike many on the market in that price range. The new Japanese Cherry Blossom scent is also nice, and mellower than BBW's cherry blossom scent introduced last spring. But beyond that, it was mainly the same stuff from 10 years ago — including my favorite from years past, Hemp Hand Protector, which still had that same Mother Earth smell. Next door was L'Occitane, which, thankfully, was not too nauseatingly strong-scented. Most of the products bore me, however; I do like most of their Provence-inspired packaging. They do have a new shea butter skincare line that I may try one of these days. The face moisturizer was very light and silky to the touch, and barely had a scent. Last, I hit up Origins before realizing I'd been gone an hour and was beginning to smell like a department store fragrance counter. Origins actually happens to carry some of my favorite products (like this and this and this), so I was happy to end here. Nothing really seemed new, but they are having a sale on some of their best sellers, many in new, limited edition sizes. Well, back to work.

What blue's for you?

2008-01-31T08:47:00.000-08:00

Following the craze that Black Satin spawned in the fall, Blue Satin is the "it" color of winter/spring for Chanel and any self-respecting woman (ha!). Well, since it's already sold out most places (try Nordstrom stores, the Web site doesn't have it), many may opt for the just-available stateside offering by Dior, Blue Poison, since both are just $19. Which is better? It's a tossup. Chanel has a bit of a shimmer and Dior is just shiny, but that's preference. They are both quality polishes that stay put and dry semi-quickly. Either way you end up going, they'll sell out fast, so head to the mall (eh!).

The devil wears purfume

2008-01-31T08:15:00.000-08:00

This month is the culmination of a three-year launch of Prada's 10-scent exclusive boutique collection. The final three scents, made from pure perfume oils, will join the seven already on shelves (which had mixed reviews over their lifespan). They are all fairly traditional scents, sold in modestly packaged bottles (reminiscent of my fav scent), and sell for $150 each. The devil's reaching far into my pockets here. I am not sure if I am excited for this, or not. Anyway, the new additions are Opoponax, Benjoin and Myhhre:

No.8 Opoponax contains notes of bergamot opoponax, cistus, santal and amber — warm, sensual and refreshing.
No.9 Benjoin comes from the bitter orange tree and mixed with sweet t, vanilla and musk — the earthiest and heaviest scent of the bunch.
No.10 Myrrhe is made from a citrus, bergamot, cedrat, lavender, myrrh and patchouli blend — light, feminine and crisp.

Zesty delicious

2008-01-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

We're still reeling over the fact clementine season passed so quickly. To bring back that sweet, tangy scent to your kitchen — and your hands, just like post-peeling — try out this fantastic new hand soap and lotion from Crate and Barrel ($9.95). Plus, the bottle is just so country chic.

Tarte's in my heart

2008-01-28T14:00:00.001-08:00

In the spirit of "bonnie & clyde," "daisy & gatsby" and even "lois & clark," Tarte has just come up with a fun and funky gift for that special bride. Design your own delectable duo of shades for a bride-to-be — or it could go the other way, and be the perfect favor for the bride's maids. Since you're able to choose from any of Tarte's dozen plus hues, this double-ended gloss is a double bonus: you can customize the colors to the bride's wedding colors and you can also personalize it with the bride's and groom's names. The best part is that when you place your order in quantities of 25 or more, you get a bulk discount of 40–50% off.

Fashion. Fragrance. And now, Face.

2008-01-28T09:52:00.000-08:00

NEW MAKEUP TAKES YOU INTO SPRING: Introducing (or really, reintroducing) ck Calvin Klein beauty, now available online at Sephora, which has some exclusive shades. The company is billing it as "an innovative fusion of fashion and beauty, the collection reflects a wardrobe, with signature elements enhanced by accessories and trends." That all seems a tad dramatic, but whether runway black cashmere translates into a smudge of eye liner, I think the line is a fantastic way to transition from the striking looks of winter into the softer hues of spring. Only one of the seven eyeshadow duos I wouldn't brush on, the others are all teamed well to complement each other; and the collection includes both pencil and liquid pen eyeliners, which can be rare. (Check out the Sea Pearl pencil, the LookGirls love it for spring.) As an added bonus for our wallets, the line is surprisingly well priced — $22 for the shadows and $15 for the liner.

Fit to a tea

2008-01-26T10:26:00.000-08:00

Beauty starts from the inside out, so the Republic of Tea's line of Be Well Red Teas help you achieve everything from a healthy glow to a good night's sleep to reduced PMS/bloating. Try the Get Gorgeous tea, which promotes clear skin with antioxidants derived from its blend of chamomile and hibiscus, among other flavors. Cheers to a clearer complexion.

Wash and go

2008-01-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

Just like the shampoo at haircuts, one of the best things about getting a facial is the facial massage that accompanies it. But you can recreate that to an extent each morning when washing you face. Take your time while washing, and use your fingers to gently press your brow bones and eye sockets, making sure to stop at your temples. Then wash in a circular fashion, using your second joint to achieve more pressure, making sure to really feel the benefits of this facial wake-up. Don't forget your earlobes, they need love too!

Head over heels

2008-01-26T09:51:00.000-08:00

The best thing about getting your hair done is the shampoo. If done right, the shampoo turns into a scalp massage, which is relaxing and invigorating at the same time. Take a few minutes at the end of your day for this relaxing move, which recreates the salon experience (without the shampoo!)

Rub a few drops of Aveda's Blue Oil Balancing Concentrate ($12.50) into your scalp and kneel on a towel or yoga mag. Bend over so the crown of your head is on the floor, and place your hands on either side of your head so that they help to support the weight. Come up to your knees and slowly, carefully roll back and forth on the crown of your head, making small circles or whatever feels comfortable. Enjoy, you're giving yourself a head massage! The blue oil may tingle as it has peppermint oil in it. Lie down flat on your back for a few minutes afterward to let the feeling sink in.

Hair today, beautiful tomorrow

2008-01-26T07:25:00.000-08:00

The price of Ted Gibson Goodnite Hair Repair Serum — a cool 200 whoppers — is shudder-worthy, no doubt, but this hair serum is worth the money if you're in the mood for indulgence. The singular smell is reminiscent of a garden on a summer night, and the serum truly works, leaving hair lustrous and shiny.

Sponge worthy

2008-01-26T07:16:00.000-08:00

Sea sponges, like the ones sold in this shop in Mykonos, Greece, are renowned for their antibacterial properties, and very popular with those in search of the ultimate bath. Sponges are animals, not plants, and are far superior to their synthetic counterparts. Natural sponges may cost more, but they'll last longer, won't absorb odors and are incredibly soft. Since you're spending more on your sponge, save on your shower gel with Whole Foods' grapefruit-scented bath gel for $1.99. Nothing smells better, and nothing costs less. So suds up!