3 LIP PLUMPING GLOSSES YOUR POUT NEEDS NOW

2014 was the year of the full lip- thanks to the phenomenon known as Kylie Jenner and her perfectly plump nude pout that swept the nation and the Rumor mill with heated debates about her makeup routine and possible plastic surgery.

I haven't dared to venture into lip injections and don't really plan to any time soon. I do however love a good temporary lip plumping gloss or serum and the illusion of a great overdrawn lip liner to fake an enhanced lip.

I've tested my fair share of these lip boosting formulas, and rounded up the top three choices for a mild to a major mouth popping effect:

Buxom Lip Polish

- Mild- the Buxom Lip Polishes have been my personal cult favorite glosses for almost a decade since their introduction to the market. They have a mild tingle and a great subtle plumping action that lasts about an hour while the color pigment wears longer. These come in over 40 shades and are the best for daily use.

Too Faced Lip Injection

- Medium- the Too Faced Lip Injection serum is more intense and causes a stronger heat and tingle reaction. You'll feel the blood be drawn to the lips about a minute after you've applied it and the plumping action typically lasts 1-2 hours. This option only comes in a clear formula, so you'll need to add additional color over the top. Some people do have a reaction to this formula although I never have- I would suggest grabbing a sample at Sephora before purchasing just to be sure.

City Lips

- 

Major- the City Lips gloss use a different technology to plump the pout and this one averages 3mm of growth with each use. It's really quite amazing and although it's warm and tingly- it's not quite as intense as the Too Faced option. It comes in 8 shades and is quite hydrating, but also pairs we'll with additional glosses or lipsticks. You can also apply this each night before bed and over about 30 days you'll get a semi-permanent plump that lasts as long as you keep up your regular use. Pretty neat eh?!

Kisses!

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TARGET BEAUTY: A PIXI BY PETRA MAKEUP REVIEW

Target has been KILLING IT lately in the style department. Just ask my credit card statement. Or my husband, who pays

said

credit card statement... [oops!] But seriously though, if you haven't browsed the isles of a Target store lately and seen the amazing home design, clothing and shoes, then at least stop by the makeup and skincare isles.

Target has brought on some of the best beauty lines from across the pond, and I for one, am thrilled that they are now available so readily here at my fav retailer.

Pixi by Petra

is no stranger in the beauty junkie world, but if this line is newer to you, here's a little rundown:

Pixi by Petra

was started over a decade ago by makeup artist Petra Strand in London. She's been a makeup artist for over 20 years, and I remember hearing about her products in the early days of youtube from my British cohorts who raved about them in their blogger videos. The line has a skincare element to it and the products all contain natural botanicals and healthy skin ingredients.

My Pixi collection has grown steadily over the last year, and today I've rounded up my blue ribbon picks from the collection.

Here are the must try products from Pixi by Petra

:

• Correction Concentrate- Under eye circles have met their match with this creamy peach concealer that knocks out blue shadows and veins with one swipe. It's color-theory at it's best and it doesn't settle into fine lines or melt away throughout the day.

• Glow Tonic- While this one hasn't shown up on the shelves of Target just yet, I still included it in this post because it is in my opinion the crown jewel of Pixi's line. This toner leaves skin indeed glowing as the name indicates but also hydrated and exfoliated as well. I also love the scent because it reminds me of my late grandmother's perfume- in a wonderfully nostalgic way.

• Natural Brow Duo- This multi tasking duel sided brow wizard has an automatic brow pomade pencil on one side, that has a chiseled angle applicator which is easy to use and gives great volume to the brows as well as nice color. The other end houses your setting brow gel which doesn't flake and keeps the brows in place all day and night.

• Fairy Dust- A great loose pigment eye shadow that is finely milled and easy to apply with a built in sponge applicator. I love the shimmer tones and the pigment is beautiful and lasts with out creasing. Add a primer before hand for a brighter color payoff.

• Shea Butter Lip Balm- I love these soft lip balms with a hint of tint and tons of moisture. The sheer colors are beautiful and they wear like a dream.

• Sheer Cheek Gel- The bright pigments in these gels look intimidating at first but they are quite dewey and mellow once applied to the skin. The gel texture isn't sticky at all and gives a nice bright pop of color to the cheeks that looks lit from within.

• Quick Fix Powder- Set your face for an all day matte finish with this innovative powder puff. The packaging is genius and mess free- which I love and gives you the benefits of a loose powder without the white residue all over your countertop or clothing. I don't care for the scent on this one, but the oil absorption and matte properties are top notch.

Have you tried any Pixi products? Got any favorites to share with us? Let me know in the comments down below, and thanks so much for stopping by today! And if you didn't hear about my girl

MaskCara

's new

makeup launch

, be sure you head over there to check it out. I already bought be custom palette and I can't wait to get it! 

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THE TOP BEAUTY ARTICLES OF 2014 // WHAT YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

It's hard to believe and a little sad that 2014 is drawing to an end- and yet at the same time I am always so happy for a fresh start on a new year. I was reflecting this last week while I took a short break from the blog, over the amazing year that I have had as a blogger, and what great things happened on these pages, and in real life because of my journey with beauty.

Today I wanted to compile a few of the

Top Beauty Articles 

from this blog in 2014, and share them with you once again. You may have missed a couple, or want to re-read one or two. These are the cream of the crop [if I do say so myself] as well as the posts that had the most views or comments from readers this year. I hope you'll learn something new, and

share

an article with a girlfriend who might learn something too. (shameless plug ;)

Image above is clickable, or links available below:

• 5 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO WHEN WASHING YOUR HAIR

• BOBBY PIN HAIR ART WITH OMBRE COLORED PINS

• SURPRISING CAUSES OF ACNE AND THE EASY FIXES YOU NEED TO KNOW

• HOW NOT TO GET A BAD HAIRCUT, WHAT YOUR STYLIST WON'T TELL YOU

• 3 GREAT THINGS TO DO WITH SALT SPRAY FOR HAIR

• BROW POWDER 101: FILL IN BROWS FASTER & EASIER

• CONTOUR YOUR FACE WITH SELF TANNER FOR A SLIMMING EFFECT

• MATTE LIPS YOU'LL ALWAYS LOVE & THE BEST MATTE LIPSTICKS

• MASCARA WANDS 101: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE DIFFERENT SHAPES

• THE MAGIC MAKEUP BRUSH CLEANER YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF

• 7 WAYS TO USE YOUR BEAUTY BLENDER SPONGE

Have you started reflecting and planning for next year? Let me know in the comments below- I'd love to hear about your goals for 2015! xo

MY JOURNEY WITH ACNE // AN UPDATE AND RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR HORMONAL ACNE

If you've followed my blog for a while, you may have heard me mention

my ongoing battle with acne

in the past. It still part of every day of my life- and I honestly hate sharing it with you because it is a sore spot of embarrassment and raw feelings. Being a 30 year old mother, with the zits of a 14 year old pubescent-boy, is frustrating to say the least!

I wanted to give you a quick update as to my progress (which is significant, yay!) and

hopefully encourage any readers out there that struggle with hormonal adult acne as well

. Here's a little

video

for you, and some of my current product recommendations.

Products Mentioned:

• Sonya Dakar Flash Facial

• Murad Transforming Powder

• Sheseido Ultimune Concentrate

• Image Skincare The Max Stem Cell Serum (spa locator to purchase)

Past Posts Mentioned:

• No-Picking Pledge

• Sheseido Ultimune Review

Thanks so much for reading and good luck with the rest of your Christmas planning this week! xo

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THE SECRET HAIR TOOL YOU'VE GOT TO SEE // 5 MINUTES TO MAJOR VOLUME

About 80% of women that come into my salon are looking for more volume in their hair

. That's a pretty large majority, especially in todays world where the numbers are almost never that straight forward. And I am always looking for more volume in my own hair- in fact I've written about volume on this blog more than any other topic. And while I do have some favorite products for achieving volume on the wet-side of your style, that is only half of the battle. 

Once the hair is dry, you can achieve even more volume with the use of a Volumizing Iron.  

I have used a few other irons designed for volume in the past, but the Voloom iron immediately caught my eye as being different because it uses a waffle iron pattern in the plates to create volume instead of a crimp or wave. I scooped it up ASAP so I could bring you a first look at the Voloom and I captured my first use with the iron on video for you to see down below. Check it out!

I am completely impressed with this bad-boy and can't wait to use it more to find the perfect amount of volume for me. I think it may be easy to go a little too big with this guy, so I would encourage anyone who buys it to reign in their inner 'Dolly' and find a happy medium. The waffle pattern really seems to make a big improvement in the the visual density of your hair and gives an ample cushion to the roots, which provides great volume payoff.

It also maintains the volume for 2-3 days after the initial use, so you get a lot of wear out of those extra 5 minutes in the morning on day one

. Genius!

THE BEST SELLING DETANGLING BRUSH IN THE WORLD // PLUS A GIVEAWAY

If you've ever battled with snarly hair- then you know the trauma that can ensue when your tresses and your brush go head-to-head. Personally, I've snapped a few combs in half, and had my fair share of brushes lodged in my locks so tightly that only scissors could free them from the wrath that is;

the tangle.

And while I handle the annoying chore of hair brushing just about as good as the next fellow, nothing could have prepared me for what would happen when I'd have to brush the hair of my first born daughter! My six-year old, 'P' is tender-headed to say the least, and very dramatic to boot. So our post bath time routine was loud and unpleasant for all of those within a half mile radius. When she was about three, I began my search for a brush that would ease the pain for us both- and that is when I discovered the

Tangle Teezer

.

Tangle Teezer is a lightweight brush that is designed to get rid of tangles without pulling on

the hair or causing any damage. As soon as I bought a brush for my daughter, I knew that I had to have them in my

salon

too, and I have been selling them there for the last two years as well. They fly off of our shelves, simply because they work so well. The design is simple and unassuming- in fact you might think; 'What makes them so special?'

Answer: It's the

multiple rows of flexible bristles, and the variations in their lengths- that help it to detangle the hair as you glide through the strands

. Also, the lack of a 'ball-tip' on the end of the bristle prevents pulling and stretching of the hair, so knots can't get tighter by accidental pulling. The bristles are also quite short, requiring that you work in shallow sections- again this is designed to aid in detangling and it really makes a big impact and gives better results.

Anyone can use a Tangle Teezer but they are

especially great for those people who have naturally snarly, distressed or curly hair and those who wear extensions. And they are wonderful to use in the shower to distribute your conditioners

and to distribute your styling products as well. I keep the compact size in my gym bag and purse too for quick touch ups on the go.

I really love this egg-shaped ninja brush and I think you will too. I am super excited that Tangle Teezer offered to sponsor todays giveaway. One lucky reader will get a prize pack of my favorite three brushes from the collection: the

Pink Holiday Compact

, the

Purple Salon Elite

, and the

Black Aqua Splash

. Enter by liking the

Tangle Teezer facebook page

and using the rafflecopter down below  for extra entries and good luck! xo

WINTER 2014 BEAUTY FAVORITES // HIGH END (THE STUFF YOU SHOULD SAVE UP YOUR DOUGH FOR!)

If you are anything like me, you'll happily spend money on a high end beauty product IF it proves worthy of it's price tag. And once it does prove worthy, you'll be a repeat buyer and happily spread the love and tell everyone you know it! Well, this is a video that is packed with FIVE of those

high end favorite products

. I narrowed it down to a hand full for this edition, but they are all so so good. Though your budget may be tight this time of year, these are a few goodies that I think are worth the splurge if you have a beauty ailment that these products can cure. And who knows... maybe Granny will send a Christmas check in the mail just in time for a much needed makeup haul!?!

Check out the

video

and links below to see my top picks this season, and as always- thanks so much for reading, commenting and supporting this blog!

If you missed my

Drugstore Favorites

video, you can see that

here

.

Products mentioned in video:

Mark. Touch & Glow Shimmer Cubes

Alterna Bamboo Volume Trio

Bare Minerals Blemish Remedy Foundation

Make Up For Ever Face & Body Liquid

Kerastase Carre Lissant Smoothing Sheets

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DRUGSTORE FAVORITES // WINTER 2014

Happy Cyber Monday lovlies! Thanks for taking a minute out of your day to stop by and say hello- I am sure happy you did. Today I wanted to share my

current beauty favorites for the Winter 2014 season

, and you're in luck because these goodies are all

budget friendly

and can be scooped up at the drugstore. Watch the

video

down below to see what I have been loving, and saving money on. Later this week I'll share my high end favorites, so be sure to come back for that one.

And, I'm keeping my eye on all the Cyber Monday deals- so if anything good comes along I'll be sharing it over on

facebook

and

instagram

if your interested in shopping along with me.

Products mentioned in video:

Milani Gel Powder Eye Shadows

Garnier Moisture Rescue Gel

 and

Dry Skin Gel

Coastal Scents Paris Palette

NYX Pore Filler

NYX Butter Gloss

Covergirl Lash Blast Length

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REPEAT OFFENDERS // EMPTIES WINTER 2014

Howdy lovlies! Today I am stopping by my fav Studio5 TV to dish on the bottles that always find themselves to be empty in my collection way too quickly! Some of these things you may recognize if you've been a reader of mine for a while- I just can't give up on a good thang that ain't broke. But, there are some new loves in the collection as well, that I have been buying and re-buying because they are simply good to the last drop!

Check out the video (available after 2pm MST) and the list of my repeat offenders below:

NYX Brow Cake Powder

- Super affordable brow powder that stay put all day and adds great volume to the brow hairs. Available in 4 collections too, so every gal is covered.

Philosophy Hope in Jar Foundation

- Light weight velvet finish that mimics skins texture so perfectly and is very hydrating. Works like a charm with my

Beauty Blender

and is my latest obsession in foundation! 

Wearing:

Texture Flare Dress

  |  

Tie Front Blouse

St Tropez Bronzing Mousse

- I use this year round and swear by it! It's the easiest to apply without streaks or spots, and it's green base color ensures no orangey tone to the skin. Use with the

application mitt

for best results.

Shiseido Ultimune

- Skin care concentrate that is designed to build the immunity of the skin and build its' defense to environmental stressors. It hydrates, soothes and retextures the skin on contact. See my full review

here

.

Alterna 48 Hour Sustainable Volume Spray

- GAME CHANGER for hair... my favorite volume discovery to date! 

Carol's Daughter Monoi Split End Sealer

- Seals split ends back together and leaves hair smooth instantly, and smells like heaven. Mmm, so yummy

Thanks so much for stopping by,  I have the best readers- and I am so grateful for you all! Truth.

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FACE MASKS AND WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU // MASK CLASS 101

There are about a million and one different kinds of facial masks out there in the world of beauty, and it can be overwhelming to find the one that is right for you. I compiled this little

guide to give you a rundown of the basic types of skincare masques, so that you know what is best for your type of skin. I also stopped by Studio5 TV today to have a little fun with the holiday- after all, there's no better day than Halloween to talk about masks, am I right!?!

Why use a face mask at all?

Well masks are typically power-packed with super concentrated ingredients that deliver more to your skin than daily use products. They are designed to treat, balance, and correct skin issues more thoroughly, and they are also fun to use for a relaxation session about once per week.

Clay Masks-Freeman Chocolate & Strawberry Clay Mask or Mint & Lemon Clay Mask

Clay masques are designed to remove impurities from the skin, dry up oil, and leave the skin tightened and resurfaced. They are best for oily skin or those with large pores, and can also be spot treated in trouble areas such as the nose, forehead or chin.

Sheet Mask/Fiber Masks- Renew You Fruit Enzyme Sleep Bamboo Mask

 The latest craze in skincare, has to be the introduction of the sheet mask! They have been popular in Asia for many years, but have now made it big in the US as well. The fiber sheet (often made of bamboo) is soaked in potent ingredients that are designed to hydrate or resurface the skin. The masks' cut outs for the eyes, mouth and nose- often resemble that of a 'Jason' hockey mask, but if you can stand looking silly for 20 minutes you'll love the way these masks deliver. Good for all skin types.

Fresh Food Masks- Lush Lettuce Love Fresh Mask

 Fresh ingredient masks use the vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables to nourish the skin without the use of preservatives or other chemical ingredients. Often these masks are made from things like blueberries, seaweed, honey, bananas, and oatmeal. They have a short shelf life, about two weeks, and are great for those looking for a natural remedy. Be sure you are cautious with any food allergies when using these.

Peel Off Masks- Boscia Luminizing Black Mask

 Peeling masques are designed to exfoliate the skin and remove impurities by peeling them away with the mask to be discarded. These masks are fun to use, and offer the most visual change to the skin after use. A thin coating of the product on the skin dries for about 20 minutes, then is peeled away to reveal a fresh layer of skin. I don't recommend these for people who have lots of redness, broken capillaries, or loose mature skin.

Cream/ Serum Masks- Charlotte Tilbury Multi- Miracle Balm Mask

 Cream or Serum masques are designed to rehydrate the skin, calm redness, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. They are power-packed with ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, that draws moisture from the air into the skin. These are best for normal to dry skin, and can be used often for treatment of dry patches.

Gel Masks- Peter Thomas Roth Rose Stem Cell Bio Repair Mask

 Gels are usually designed for anti-aging, and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They are great for evening out skin tone, and for moisturizing- using ingredients such as rose water or cucumber extracts. Gels can often be refrigerated as well to give a cooling and inflammation-reducing effect to the skin. They are meant for all skin types, and are also good for use on the neck area and decollate.

Hope you have a better idea of which mask is right for you. Let me know if you have a favorite mask that I should try in the comments down below. See you all next week- and have a Happy and Safe Halloween! xo

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7 WAYS TO USE YOUR BEAUTY BLENDER

Every now and then, there is a beauty tool that comes around that changes the landscape of the industry. These rare cult-favorites are usually an investment and it may take some convincing [and/or saving] before you decide to buy. If you are like me, you may have tried some of the other knock-off sponges first in hopes that you would get the same results without the heavy price tag, but alas that didn't work out in your favor. Fast forward to today- I actually own and use FOUR Beauty Blenders currently, because it really is that good and I am totally obsessed. But again, if you are like me, you want to get the most out of your purchase because after all, $20 is $20 and it doesn't grow on trees.

Here are 7 ways to use your beauty blender in your makeup routine:

*Remember your BB should always be pre-moistened with water prior to use. This changes the texture and size of the sponge, but also makes it so your products aren't absorbed into the sponge.

1- Moisturizer or Serum

The BB is ideal for applying your moisture products and the white Pure BB is designed for just that, although any of the sponges work great.

2- Primer

This is one of my favorite uses for the sponge because it presses the primer into the pores and fills them more compactly and evenly then using your finger tips. Use the small end to apply your eye lid primers as well.

3- Foundation (Liquid or Powder) & Setting Powder

The most common use for the BB is to apply foundation, and if you just use it for this one step you'll still feel as though it was worth the purchase! The bouncing action of the sponge distributed your foundation so evenly with out streaking, and mimics the natural texture of your skin. Many people don't know however, that powdered foundations are also applied beautifully with the BB too. Just dip the sponge into the minerals, tap off the excess, and bounce the sponge on the skin to distribute the formula seamlessly. Finish your whole look with a dusting of translucent setting powder too.

4- Contour & Blush (Cream or Powder)

The precision small-sided tip of the sponge is perfect to draw lines of your dark contour colors under the cheekbones, down the sides of the nose, and under the jawline. You'll be able to see exactly where the color is placed and your results will be that much better. Then flip the sponge over, and bounce the rounded side along your contour lines to blend and blur the lines. Ditto for your blush as well.

5- Concealer

Use the BB to blend concealer with minimum effort and maximum comfort. I never worry about tugging on the delicate skin around my eyes with the BB because its' texture is so forgiving. The point of the sponge is great for getting to the inner corners of your eyes, and the small folds around your nose. BB even has a new mini sponge for detailed worked, although I haven't tried it yet.

6- Eye Shadow (Cream or Powder)

You might not think about using the BB for your eye shadow, but I find it is an amazing way to apply your cream shadows and blend out your edges with powdered shadows as well. The pointed tip makes application a breeze, and you can layer and build color beautifully. The mini BB would also be great for this purpose.

7- Lips (Balms or Stains)

When applying your more liquidy lip colors like balms, glosses or stains- the BB is a welcome companion. I love it for adding a hint of tint to the lips without looking too heavy in color. It's also ideal for blending ombre or color fade lipstick looks. Apply your lip liner first, then simply dab the lip color to fill in the lines.

Are there any ways you use your Beauty Blender that I haven't tried? Let me know in the comments below- and if you haven't tried a Beauty Blender yet... I am sure you can see that I highly recommend it!

ADD THIS TO YOUR NYC MUST-DO LIST: CUSTOM LIPSTICK AT THE BITE LIP LAB

Clockwise: Pigment 'chocolates'  |  Lipstick cooling in molds  |  Flavor oils

I had a mission when I was in New York earlier this month: '

Get your booty to the Bite Lip Lab, Megan! ' I gave myself that order, however... no one was really yelling that at me! ha.

I've been a Bite fan since the first day of their arrival in the US, at Sephora stores. And I've written about some of my fav Bite products on this blog in the past, but I hadn't yet experienced their custom lip color creation process, that only happens in NY.

Lucky for me the stars aligned and I was able to create my own color while in New York. The process is seriously so cool, and it made me want to experiment creating my own lip colors at home. But, that's another story for another time.

If you are in The City anytime soon, you must make a trip to the Lip Lab for yourself- you won't regret it! I watched in awe as the ladies of Bite worked to combine colors, melt down the pigments, hand stir in the flavorings and gloss options- then carefully pour the liquid into lipstick molds. Then the molds are super-chilled to set the lipstick in the perfect shape, and lastly the mold pops off and the applicator tube slides on into position.

I went with a rich orangey-red color for Fall, and I added coconut and mint as my flavorings with a satin creme finish. I love the way it turned out, and I also love the all of Bite's products are natural, and in fact healthy enough to eat... although I don't think I'll be consuming my lipstick anytime soon.

If you won't be in New York in the near future, you can still scoop up your own Bite products at Sephora. My favs include their Matte Lip Crayons, and their Lush Lip Tint. Now's the perfect time to switch your lip color up for the new season. Thanks for stopping by today, xo

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SECRETS FROM MY GARBAGE CAN // THE PRODUCTS I USE TO THE BITTER END

You know that ONE product that you have been a relationship with longer than your husband? The one that you use on repeat, and always need a spare bottle of? Yup, those are the best kind of beauty products- the ones that you use to the bitter last drop!

I call these my EMPTIES because they always seem to be empty, and I am always looking for a refill on them

.

Check out my

Fall 2014 edition of empties

, and see what goodies I have used up recently. Maybe there will be a new discovery here, that will soon become one of your empty-loves too!

Wearing:

Scarlet Ali Dress

c/o Shabby Apple

Products mentioned in video:

Batiste Hint of Color Dry Shampoo

Philosophy Hope in a Jar Foundation

Swim Spray

Josie Maran Creamy Concealer Crayon

ESQIDO mink eyelashes

Guerlain Mascara

Kate Somerville Anti-Bac Lotion

Urban Decay De-Slick Powder

Past videos mentioned:

Best Under Eye Concealers

Contour with Fake Tanner

Thanks so much for reading, I genuinely appreciate it so much, to be a part of your lives! xo

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IS YOUR SKINS' IMMUNITY STRONG ENOUGH?

A few weeks back while on a regular shopping trip to my local Sephora, I saw a display for a new Shiseido product. The red ombré packaging is stunning & sleek and speaks to the brands' luxury eastern skincare philosophy. It's totally eye-catching!  I've spoken about my love of Shiseido on this blog before, so it's no surprise this will be a love fest too.

When Shiseido offered to send me the new product, I jumped at the chance because I had already been so intrigued while shopping. Their new formula called

Ultimune

is different than other skincare products on the market, because it's main goal, like the name implies, is to

build the immunity of the skin

-not

change

the skin itself. It's a preventative measure that helps skin to be more resistant to environmental factors that break down skins’ ability to heal. It’s a product that is a first of its’ kind, and uses the 20+ years of research that Shiseido has conducted to bring you the ultimate in luxury, but also effectiveness.

The consistency is like a thin gel serum, and the scent is my favorite of any product I am currently using. It's light floral and citrus combo is very refreshing, and it's cooling effect on the skin has made this a favorite of mine to use just out of the shower. I also love how quickly the concentrate absorbs into the skin, which helps speed up my morning routine.

If you are looking for a companion product to your current skincare regimen, this is the one to buy. It's designed to enhance the absorption power of your other products, as well as smooth the skin and give a radiant glow. It's lightweight and great for wearing under makeup, but also moisturizing enough to wear at night during sleep. I also notice a huge difference in my under eye area with this, it has really helped to smooth and moisturize the delicate skin there. Ooh it's so good!

Let me know in the comments below if your face could use a good workout session with Shiseido? Who knew our skin needs to build up it’s own immunity? Pretty cool, if you ask me. Check out

Shiseido

'

s Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate

HERE

.

xo

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*thanks to Shiseido for sponsoring this post through their partnership with POPSUGAR Select

MASCARA WANDS 101 // WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOUR NEXT PURCHASE

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Ever wondered

what the crap all of those different mascara wands are for? Why are they shaped differently, and what will the results be?

It can be more than a little confusing at times- and really overwhelming when you are strolling down the makeup isle.

Wearing:

Can't Hold Me Down Dress

c/o White Plum

Well, rest easy my friends- today I am putting you through my

Mascara Wands 101

course, and by the end of it you'll be a pro! Here is what you need to know about the different mascara wand types, and don't miss the video from Studio5 TV with more info (available after 2pm MST) and the GIVEAWAY down below. Although there are variations out there that I haven't included, these are the 7 basic types of wands and the rest all fit under one of these categories as well.

Oversized Wand- Maximum VOLUME

These full bristle wands are designed for amplified volume all around. They will thicken the lashes as well as give length and are designed to POP the eye open with their effect. These types of wands are better for advanced makeup junkies who aren't 'flinchy' with eye makeup. If you have small or deep set eyes however, this guy is not the best pick. Try

Maybelline Mega Plush

 or

Too Faced Better than Sex

(dumb name, amazing mascara)

Cone Taper Wand- Winged Out Corners

Cone shapes will help direct the lashes toward the outer corners and accentuate the cat-eye look. The bristles that are longer will distribute more product on the lashes, so those will be the ones that are elongated. This mascara is great to pair with a cat-eye liner to really finish off the total look. Try

Maybelline Lots of Lashes

 or

Lorac Pro Mascara

Curved Wand- Fanned Out Curl

Curved wands are designed to fan out the lashes from the inner corner all the way to the outer corner. The wand shape mimics the curve of the eye, so the wand is the same distance from the eye all the way across. This gives more curl to the lashes located at the two corners of your eye. Try Cover Girl

Flamed Up Mega Curl

 or

Dior Over Curl

Balled Tip- Detailed Corners

The balled tip is a favorite of mine because it allows you get very near the root at the corners to thoroughly coat the base of the lashes, without the risk of poking yourself with a sharp point. You can also turn the wand vertically and sweep the ball end across the lower lashes with lots of precision. You can use the ball tip to direct the outer corners as well, so you have the exact shape you are looking for. Try

Rimmel Scandaleyes Show Off

or

ELF 3-in-1 Mascara

Micro Wand- Tinted & Natural

The micro wand is again a huge favorite of mine because I love the simplicity of it and the natural looking results it gives. Great for your 'no-makeup' days, a micro wand will deliver a dark pigment to your lashes but won't build volume or much length. I also love that a micro wand can get all the way down to the root of your lashes (without poking your eyeball) which is so helpful if you have naturally light eye lashes like blondes and redheads often do. Oh, and it's a dream on those lower lashes too! Try

IT Cosmetics Tight Line Primer

or

Maybelline Lash Discovery

Rubber Shorty- Defined Length

If length is your primary focus, a short bristled rubber wand is the right pick for you. The formula is most evenly applied with this type of brush so you'll have less clumps and be able to build up a longer length with more coats. The short bristles also work as a comb of sorts, keeping lashes extended straight, aiding in the length yet again. Try

Wet n Wild Mega Length

or

Covergirl Lash Blast Length

Flat Comb- Separated & Dark

Definition is the name of the game with lash combs, so if you love to see a separation between every lash then this wand is the one you need. The comb pushes through the lashes and forces each one into a designated path way in the comb. The result is a very uniform lineup of lashes that are equally spaced from one another and coated in lots of pigment. Try

Napoleon Perdis MesmerEyes

or

Mirenesse Cougar Mascara 

Thanks so much for stopping by today, I hope you found this guide to mascara wands helpful! If you want to win a HUGE goody bag of my fav mascaras for yourself, be sure you enter the giveaway down below using the rafflecopter entry. The first two entries are mandatory to play, and the rest are optional but additional entries into the running. Good luck! And check out my cute dress from

White Plum

today, it's only $39 and I LOVE it! 

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

THE NEW BREED OF NAIL POLISH // WOULD YOU BUY IT?

Lately there's been talk about a new breed of nail lacquers. These aren't your run-of-the-mill drugstore polishes, or even your salon quality polishes.

These are designer, luxury lacquers that carry a hefty price tag and come in stunning little packages.

And while I'll probably bite the bullet some day, and throw down $50 for a bottle of the iconic red colored polish produced by Christian 

Lou Boutin

, for now I've found just the right amount of luxury in my new

Azature Black Diamond Lacquer

. ($18-25) 

People often ask me '

what is the difference between cheap polish and high end polish?'

, and in my experience it's two things: the consistency and the pigment. High quality Polish is thinner so it gives a smooth even coat, without being lumpy in any way. BUT even though it's thin it still has major color payoff and only needs 1-2 coats to have beautiful non-streaky results.

The Black Diamond lacquers are spot on in both categories, and I have been wearing them 24/7 since they landed on my doorstep. The red color called '

Ruby Diamond

' is so close to the Lou Boutin red, I may never need to buy it after all. And you may know that Azature is renowned for their beautiful black diamond jewelry, and true to form, each Azature polish contains a tiny black diamond in each bottle! 

Yes, they are more expensive- but they are luxury in the best way. I suggest buying a couple classics shades that you'll get years of use out of, making them investment polishes you'll love to use time and again. Plus if you bring one of these bad boys with you to your next manicure appointment, you'll feel like a million bucks to boot! 

What do you think? Would you splurge on the newest breed of nail polishes? Tell me your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure you are following along with me on

instagram

- this week I'm prepping for my trip to New York Fashion Week, and I'm sharing sneak peaks on my IG account! xo

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*Azature samples provided to the beauty snoop, all opinions are my own

BLUE RIBBON WINNERS: DERMALOGICA SKINCARE

A long time ago, in a far away place called Salt Lake City... a little girl named Megan went to beauty school. Megan didn't even know what the word 'esthetics' meant, let alone that someone could have a career in it... but thanks to Dermalogica, she fell in love with the study of skincare and the rest is history!

***

Yes, it's true! When I went to beauty school- I had never even heard the word '

esthetics

' before, and I had no idea that I would be learning about skincare as part of my cosmetology training. I was 17 after all, so I hadn't paid much attention to my skin just yet. But, my education in the spa world opened my eyes to the wonder of that part of the beauty industry, and luckily for me-

Dermalogica

was a big part of that experience.

I've continued to use and love many of the Dermalogica products that I used during my school days. After all it's one of the top skincare lines in the world, and its' products are loved by millions. I wanted to share with you my top picks from the line, maybe there is one just right for you as well!

Dynamic Skin Recovery

- This little bottle of goodness has freakin 50 SPF in it, yet it isn't thick or greasy like traditional sunscreen. It is a lightweight daily moisturizer that is geared for anti-aging and is seriously so good. Don't mess around when it comes to sunscreen. Just use it everyday and be glad you did later. It isn't cheap, but a little goes a long way- and you'll be much more likely to use a sunscreen if it is high quality and good for your skin like this one is.

Ultra Soothing Eye Serum

- I have crazy sensitive eyes! The actual eyeballs them selves (I can't walk outside without sunglasses on), plus the skin around my eyes stings with almost every product that touches it. This eye serum has never irritated my eyes, and is so lovely. I always go back to it.

Overnight Clearing Gel

- The name says it all. Put this stuff of your blemishes at night, and they'll be reduced in size by at least half in the morning. I use it religiously for my troubled skin.

Environmental Control Deodorant

- I don't know why I love this stuff SO MUCH... deodorant is not something I usually splurge on. But this has a mens cologne scent that I just can't get enough of! It's a clear gel/solid formula, and I think it is divine. [I'm a weirdo, I guess]

Multi Vitamin Power Recovery Masque

- Heaven in a Tube! I wear this Vitamin C masque for hours on end. The creamy orange masque leaves skin feeling totally refreshed and glowing, and it is so good for post peel or microdermabrasion treatments. Must have.

Cheers to great skin! Let me know if you have any Dermalogica favorites, and be sure you vote on

instagram

, to tell me which #LOOKSTHATROCK you want me to recreate from the VMA's.

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*Dynamic Recovery sample provided by Dermalogica via iFabbo

MAKEUP SPLURGE OR SAVE

Hello loves! Today is a great day on the blog- I am so happy you are here, so thank you!

I stopped by Studio5 TV today to dish on my makeup must haves, and the best part is I included two budget options in each category so you can SAVE or SPLURGE! Check out the video and then shop your picks using the links below. PLUS, one lucky reader will be scooping up a care package full of my must-haves, so be sure you enter to win using the rafflecopter entry below. There's also a BONUS VIDEO today, where I answer the question, 'Can a women over 30 wear a headband without looking like a wanna-be teenager?' Check out my answer below.

SPLURGE:

• Nude Toned Eye Palette- Urban Decay Naked Palette

• Highlighting Cheek Stick- Nars The Multiple Stick

• Peach Toned Under Eye Concealer- Bobbi Brown Corrector

• Automatic Brow Pencil-Anastasia Brow Wiz

• Translucent Finishing Powder- Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder

SAVE:

• Nude Toned Eye Palette-Maybelline The Nudes Palette

• Highlighting Cheek Stick- Sonia Kashuk Luminosity Stick

• Peach Toned Under Eye Concealer- NYX Dark Circle Concealer

• Automatic Brow Pencil- NYX Automatic Brow Pencil

• Translucent Finishing Powder- Neutrogena Shine Control Powder

Hope some of these goodies solve an issue for you! Thanks again for stopping by, don't forget the giveaway below- the first two entry options are required, the rest are optional but each one you complete adds your name into the drawing an additional time. Good luck!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

THE FRENCH-GIRL SCENTS YOU'LL LOVE FOR FALL

Illustration by

Melissa Bailey

My fascination with France started young. My favorite book of all time was Madeline, and a read it religiously as a child. I can still quote many of the brilliantly worded rhymes from the stories. And those illustrations! Don't get me started on the beautiful images found in those books, I still treasure them to this day.

When junior high came around, I chose to take French as my foreign language- much to my parents' dismay. (They thought Spanish would be much more useful in life... and they were right- I don't get much practice speaking french, but who cares!?!) I took six years of French class to be exact, but I only remember the basics, sadly. But that six years of hard work, was enough to warrant a trip to France when I was 17, and I'll never forget it! The magic of France is still with me, and I can't wait to go back.

That long tangent there, was really just to tell you about two of my newest perfume collection additions. I feel like Fall is the perfect season to change your scent, and nothing changes a mood more than fragrance. I know it's still warm outside and you are hanging on to Summer just as much as I am, but cooler weather will be here soon, plus I had to speed up my process when my 2-year-old kindly shattered my Summer perfume bottle on my bathroom floor recently. I went searching for a new fragrance and wound up with two- both French. No complaints here. 

The first, Dune by Dior

is full of warm citrus and vanilla notes and just a hint of the ocean mist. I have been wearing this in the day time, and the staying power is legendary. It's perfect for early fall when you are just starting to add layers and the nights are cooling down.

The second scent I'll be wearing this season is Lys Soleia by Guerlain. Guerlain is the ultimate beauty label in my mind, and I love everything I have ever tried from the French design house. If you haven't shopped their makeup counter before, put that on your list of must-dos. This scent from their Aqua Allegoria collection is very robust and sensual, with a spicy musk note, and a Lilly kicker. This scent lends itself beautifully to night time wear, and is quite strong so stick with only 1-2 sprays.

If you are looking for a new parfume in your life- I hope you'll check out these two! We can be smell-twins... yes, that's a real thing. I just made it up. xo

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*samples for were requested by the beauty snoop and fulfilled by fragrencenet.com 

THE MAKEUP TREND STARTED BY CLEOPATRA... OR MAYBE IT WAS ELIZABETH TAYLOR?

I am a huge fan of 

Sex & The City

! If you didn't know that- well, there ya go! What does this have to do with today's topic:

Kajal Eye Liners

?

Well, in the second [and quite horrible, really] Sex & The City movie, Carrie and the girls take a wild trip to Abu Dhabi. While out shopping, Carrie runs into her ex-fiance, and show favorite, Aidan. Prior to this run in, Carrie makes a purchase from a street vendor who is selling beautiful jeweled shoes... AND traditional Indian Kajal eyeliners. This sets the scene for a later part in the film where Carrie applies the eyeliner and then gets into lots of trouble with Aidan. We will just leave it there...

These types of eye liners date all the way back to Ancient Egypt, a la Cleopatra... but are still worn today in many Indian and Asian cultures. You've probably seen similar types of

eye kohls

produced by all the major beauty brands, but lately the more traditional kajal formulas are popping up too!

Kajals typically come in a cone-shaped applicator, and contain deep tones of natural pigment, that are laced with oils to give them a super creamy texture that is perfect for inner-eye lining. 

The liners are made for sultry looks, and they are typically worn around the entire rim of the eye with a flick on each corner. If you've been wanting to try a new take on your eye makeup routine- this is a really fun way to start. I've seen the Kajals by both

Maybelline

and

Physicians Formula

at my local stores, and no doubt more brands will be jumping in on the action soon too.

Here's a look at how I've been wearing mine. To get the perfect extended cat eye, use my super high-tech trick: fold a facial tissue in half, then again a few times until you have a nice thick folded edge. Place the folded edge at the corner of your eye on the the angle you want your cat eye to sweep. Then, simply trace your liner across the edge of the tissue, for a perfectly straight line that extends as high as you want it to! Easy as pie.

Let me know if you pick up any of these Kajal type liners and what your thoughts are. I am really liking the way they apply so smoothly, but I am still working on the best way to set them so they don't migrate as the day goes on.

xo

PS- anyone remember that music group called 'Cleopatra'?

One hit wonder...

 'comin at-cha'!

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