A Girl's Gotta Spa!

2009-05-29T10:25:00.001-04:00

Mom Get Glamorous contest winner is @trinasbabies Would love a RT to congratulate her: http://bit.ly/tcwTC

A Girl's Gotta Spa! has Moved

2008-06-25T23:33:00.005-04:00

Dear Lovely Readers,

We've moved! Hooray! While this site will still be up for eternity I sure would love to have you come over to the new place we call home: www.agirlsgottaspa.com/blog

Welcome to my new readers from Nailpro Magazine and Trendi Magazine! Please be sure to click over to my new domain!

If you subscribe via email or through a feed, please be sure to update them via my new subscribe page on my website (yes I even have a website too!)

See you there!

~Shannon

Best of the Web

2008-06-24T23:20:00.002-04:00

Couture in the City: Elliott Lucca Handbag Giveaway Valued at $300!
Hello there you fashionistas! As you know Elliott Lucca is our designer couture giveaway for the month of June! Every Friday we will feature a new handbag giveaway from this exclusive New York designer!

Makeup Minute discovers how to get the perfect brows!
Watch your brows transform with Anastasia Brow products

Moms Buzz: Twelve Ways to Delay Aging - Tips
Hello moms, how about "delaying" aging and looking as younger as possible? Real Simple Magazine, this month, has an article on 12 ways to delay aging, which we love to share with you.

Shopalicious: Bernardo Serpentine Sandal from Urban Outfitters
Nab these versatile beauties for a steal!

Stylenotes: Summer Essentials
Get ready for the summer with stylenotes’ recommendations on products that will keep you looking glam – with or without a tan.

Summer is Here!
Reasons to love the season: check out this fabulous list of summertime favorites....

Tags: Beauty Blog

Monday's Cut: David Beckham Shows His "Stuff" For Armani

2008-06-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

I'm sure I am not the only girl who is jealous that Victoria Beckham has the hottest husband on the planet. But if I can't have David Beckham (and neither can you, sorry) then we can at least drool a little over his large, poster size...ad for Armani hanging from Macy's in San Francisco. I hear it overlooks a 6,000 seat amphitheater--how much do you want to bet women will be finding an excuse to have lunch at that amphitheater each day? I know I would.

Check it out for yourself on NY Mag's The Cut.

Up to 60% off at NYC Spas & Salons Through Lifebooker

2008-06-22T16:30:00.000-04:00

With the economy as it is, New Yorkers are feeling the pinch. They might not spend a third of their paycheck at the pump, but having to fill up on two franks and a papaya shake is giving locals plenty of reason to complain about gas.

See, I can't even afford anything but cheap jokes-- but what Lifebooker can offer you, NYC, is some relief. There are exclusive deals for what remains of June. Just click on the links below to find a treatment that fits your budget and schedule.

60% off All Services at Gotham Aesthetics (UWS)

50% off All Spa Services at Rose Alcido (Flatiron/Gramercy)

50% off All Services at the Stuart Hirsch Salon (Soho)

50% off Facials & Eyelash Tinting at Janis Chakler (UWS)

50% off All Services with David at Gina-Le (Chelsea)

40% off Waxing Services at Tribeca Beauty Spa (Tribeca)

40% off All Spa Treatments at Okeanos Spa Banya (UES)

40% off Waxing Services at Gita Gabriel Salon & Spa (UES)

Also check out their homepage for all the latest Lifebooker contests, product giveaways and more.

So, show some love to your city and yourself. Your municipal body will be grateful.

Stay beautiful New York!

Tags: Beauty Blog

Review: C'watre Kanreki Wash

2008-06-22T08:30:00.001-04:00

C'watre is a very unique and interesting beauty brand. Their products revolve around using modified sea water (Odoroki) to promote healthy skin. Since I've never seen a surfer with bad skin (have you?) I figured I would give their Kanreki Wash a try.

C'watre's Kanreki Wash is a combination of Odoroki, skin moisturizers such as aloe and sweet almond oil; exfoliants Pinetree Extract and Salicylic Acid, as well as the anti-oxidant, White Tea Extract. The consistency is very thin when you smooth it over your face to wash away the day's impurities. When you rinse it off, your skin is left feeling clean and tighter--like the sensation you get when you use toner.

I've been using it for a few weeks and I have to say, it has been working very well. My skin seems to breaking out less, is less oily and just seems more balanced overall.

If you've tried it, I'd love to hear what you thought.

Spa Week~Steals & Deals

2008-06-21T21:30:00.000-04:00

Summer is here and lets be honest… isn't this season all about showing skin?! A strategically placed trip to the spa might be just what your epidermis ordered. But 'alas, we have bikini's and designer sunglasses to buy...we can't be dropping $200 on a spa treatment (or at least I can't!) Well turn that frown upside down because Spa Week Media's Steals and Deals Program offers discounts on some of the hottest spa treatments out there!

It's important to treat yourself so gather up the girls and kick off summer the right way…at the Spa! After all ladies, that bikini line isn’t gonna wax itself! Spa Week Media highlights how therapeutic spa treatments can be vital to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. So now that you know you don't have to break the bank to get a quality massage, there’s no excuse! Pamper your body with one of the many affordable treatments that Spa Week Media offers, you won't regret it and neither will your checking account!

Each month new spa specials, promotion and exclusive deals are available for the Spa Week Media faithful to take advantage of. Steals and Deals has been a part of our company since its inception, encouraging consumers to keep utilizing Spa Week Media as their #1 year-round Spa resource. Known for their signature $50 treatments during the Spa Week event, Spa Week Media takes the world of affordable spa services a step further by offering this year long program on www.spaweek.org.

Review: FitFlops

2008-06-21T16:32:00.004-04:00

Walking is a part of our daily lives. For some more than others, if they live in a big city and their feet are their mode of transportation. For those of us, with less active lives, walking is just a means of getting to point A to point B. In the summer I love to wear flip flops. I'm a girl whose feet love to be sock-free to show off a fresh pedicure, but flip flops have no arch support and tend to feel a bit uncomfortable by days end. Then I met the FitFlop and I haven't stopped telling people about it since (really, ask everyone in NEPA).

My job requires me to sit at my desk all day and I'm also a self-admitted workaholic. I can't say I've ever really allowed myself much time for exercise. Yet these amazing FitFlops not only feel like I am walking on stablized-like tempurpedic foam, but they are built in such a way that works my leg muscles as I walk. They come in great styles, so I have a great looking flip flop. I have to admit, I was so skeptical before I received them, but as soon as you put them on your feet you immediately realize they are a very different type of shoe. Function+Fashion=the right shoe for me.

It does take a day or two to get used to them. What happens is that it's almost this "rocking" type movement that they create that causes your body to force yourself to balance as you walk. Almost like being on a balance ball and how it works your core--just imagine that balance ball being in the center area of your shoe. The FitFlop works the back of your calves, your upper thighs and yes even your behind. Believe me, I feel it. Not in a painful I-just-worked-out-for-an-hour type feeling, but you can actually feel that these shoes are working your muscles.

Have I noticed my legs looking firmer? I've only been wearing them for a few weeks, so I can't say there is any definitive difference, but I can feel it working and my take on it is--I can wear flip flops as I normally would or I can wear FitFlops and put those muscles into action.

I'll stick with the FitFlops. www.thefitflop.com

Review: CLEAN Summer Eau Fraiche & Soft Refreshing Lotion

2008-06-18T21:57:00.005-04:00

Have you ever felt like you just wanted to take the sweet scents of summer and bottle it up so that you can let your mind drift back any time you want to those lazy days on the beach when the ocean air gently lingered on your sun-kissed skin? No matter the date or time of the year, you can always put your finger on the exact "fragrance" that represents summer. CLEAN has launched two new products that are the essence of just that: CLEAN Summer Eau Fraiche and CLEAN Summer Soft Refreshing Lotion.

CLEAN Summer Eau Fraiche has less alcohol than Eau de Parfum or Eau de Toilette. This unique formula contains moisturizing Aloe Leaf and Chamomile extracts. Your senses will delight in pure extracts of Italian Limoncello, Crisp Bergamont, Rose Ice, Mirabelle Plum and Lily of the Valley. It reminds me of the fragrance of the flowers that line the sand dunes along the Rhode Island shoreline.

CLEAN Summer Soft Refreshing Lotion has a consistency of a pearlized gel and will refresh your senses with invigorating peppermint, Wintergreen leaf extracts, grape seed and avocado oils (I swear I smelled some grapefruit in there too!) The fragrance comes on very strong at first, but as the hours pass, it gently softens.

It is sold exclusively at HSN as a 2.14 oz. Eau Fraiche & 2 oz. lotion set. HSN has offered limited sneak preview purchasing, otherwise this set officially launches in July and will only be available until the end of the month--so once July 1st hits, act fast and scoop it up!

*Photo Credit: HSN

Tags: Beauty Blog

Review: Aloette's Hot Soy Manicure Treatment Candle

2008-06-17T23:56:00.003-04:00

So you thought hot dripping candle wax was only for those about to engage in some...playtime. Aloette's Hot Soy Manicure Treatment Candle will quickly change your mind and have you wanting to indulge in this innovative and heavenly manicure product.

The fragrance is absolutely dreamy--an orange creamsicle, sweet and delicious. The candle burns clean with a cotton wick. It heats up the soy, orange and vanilla oil combination to which you can dip your finger into (once the flame is blown out of course!) and rub the oil over your cuticles and massage into your hands to heal cracks and dryness. The warm oil feels great on your skin, almost like a paraffin treatment.

I absolutely love this candle and keep it at my desk. The fragrance will lift your spirits and the oils will soothe your skin. Your hands will be ready for that polish in no time and you'll have people asking for the business card of your manicurist.

$29.95 www.aloette.com (in the Spa Indulgence section)

Tags: Beauty Blog

Monday's Cut: CFDA on Skinny Models

2008-06-16T08:21:00.001-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows there are two models I love love love. Chanel Iman and Coco Rocha. I was lucky to be able to be backstage when Chanel was getting her makeup done for Jason Wu (and I can even tell you how nice she is?), but sadly didn't see Coco at any of the shows I attended.

The CFDA held a panel last week on Skinny Models and Coco Rocha was a guest speaker. NY Mag's The Cut gives a snapshot look into how it all went down: Skinny Models & Coco Rocha

Photo: (c) Shannon Nelson
Tags: Beauty Blog

Review: International Orange Spa Products

2008-06-15T22:46:00.002-04:00

International Orange is a wellness spa located in San Fransico, California. Since I couldn't make it to the spa, they brought the spa to me with their shampoo, conditioner, bath salts, body wash, body oil and moisturizer.

The fragrance of their products are very unique and different from anything I have ever experienced. Very earthy with exotic smelling florals; the fragrance is very strong, but eventually softens leaving that just-from-the-spa fragrance on your skin and hair.

Restore Hair Wash has Bergamont Peel, Geranium flower and seaweed extract and Nourish Hair Cream is Jasmine Blossom, Tuberose Petal and Golden Jojoba. There really isn't much lather when washing your hair with the shampoo, something that is always hard for me to get used to. The conditioner is very hydrating, you don't need to use a lot to benefit from it. Enrich body moisturizer contains shea butter and avacado oil, both soothe your dry skin with hydration.

My favorite is the Bathe Bath Salts. The ingredients are amazingly simple--epsom salt, baking soda and sea salt with Orange Blossom, Vetiver Root and White Lotus. The water softens as does your skin. I also put a drop of the Anoint body oil in to further moisturize.

If you've been to International Orange's Spa, I'd love to hear about your experience. If you've had the opportunity to try their products, what did you think?

TotalBeauty.com's Summer Spa Sweepstakes!

2008-06-14T16:50:00.002-04:00

TotalBeauty.com is having a spa sweepstakes! By writing your own reviews of beauty products on Total Beauty, you could get a chance to win 1 of 100 prizes and be entered for the grand prize--an all inclusive spa trip to Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico. You've always wanted your chance to write a review of your favorite products or dish on the ones that are really bad, right? So why not do it and have the chance to win something in return!

Total Beauty's Fine print: Open to only legal US residents age 18+, ends August 4th.

Tags: Beauty Blog

Review: Bioelements Vitalization Body Creme

2008-06-14T09:00:00.002-04:00

You take care of your face everyday making sure to remove your makeup before bed, cleansing and toning, moisturizing--but are you paying attention to the rest of your skin in the same way? Chances are you're not and are often being reactive to dry skin instead of proactive. I'll admit, I sometimes get caught up in my hectic life and will skip applying lotion to save time. So I was happy to discover Bioelements Vitalization Rich Intensity Body Creme, which will transform your skin and no one is the wiser.

The active ingredients in this highly effective moisturizer are: 100% pure botanical oils, shea butter, red tea and beta-carotene. The texture is rich and indulgent , but glides on effortlessly and quickly absorbs going to work on those dry patches you often wear pants to hide. This is an intense moisturizer, so you won't have to wait days to see a difference in your skin. The aroma is soothing, but not overpowering. This product is great on it's own, but works even better when you've exfoliated while in the shower and immediately after getting out of your shower or bath.

Biolements Vitalization is only available at select salons and spas and comes in a variety of sizes. Would love to hear your thoughts if you've tried it.

Tags: Beauty Blog

L'Occitane Family and Friends Weekend

2008-06-13T19:06:00.002-04:00

L'Occitane is having a Family & Friends event both instore and online! Get 25% off!

For instore purchases you need a coupon with a barcode--you can email me directly and I will forward it to you.

Online purchases simply enter the code: FNF25 at checkout. www.usa.loccitane.com ends Sunday June 15th!

L'Occitane's Fine Print: For US Residents only, on full price items only, not valid at outlet stores.

Tags: Beauty Blog

Berwick Beauty's Skin Care Tips

2008-06-12T22:08:00.004-04:00

I am a big fan of Berwick Beauty and I love their Balancing Day Cream from their Coming Up Roses collection. Here are some skin care tips and expert advice straight from Angel, co-owner of Berwick Beauty:

HOW ABOUT A LITTLE SECRET TIP on how to erase those dark circles under your eyes and reduce puffiness in just seconds? Berwick Beauty expert advice: Keep your Coming Up Roses Eye Contour Gel refrigerated. The soothing coolness and natural strength of the product will instantly tighten and smooth the delicate eye area. The results are fantastic!

DID YOU KNOW that Berwick Beauty’s Nourishing Cream is an excellent source of Hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is a compound that occurs naturally in the skin and connective tissue, and its depletion (often caused by sun damage) is associated with wrinkling. Dermal fillers such as Hyaluronic acid have proved very popular with individuals looking for non-invasive anti-aging solutions that have a tangible effect. Recent studies have shown that dermal fillers help to restore the structure of sun-damaged skin due to their collagen stimulating properties.

DID YOU KNOW that Rosa Damascena (Damask Rose Oil) contains more than 300 natural compounds and is one of the most complex natural substances on earth? Damask Rose Oil is often referred to as nature’s universal healer and is proven to be highly effective at treating dry, mature and damaged skin as well as modifying the unhealthy skin sebum secretion that causes acne and the appearance of enlarged pores. All Berwick Beauty products contain Damask Rose Oil derived from organically grown, handpicked Rosa Damascena roses.

DID YOU KNOW that the first references to the health and beauty benefits of rose oil date back more than 5000 years? Many great ancient civilizations throughout Persia, Egypt, Greece and Rome placed great value on the exclusivity and aesthetics of the rose. This fascination with the rose only increased as cultures began to truly understand the complexity of the flower and the science behind its natural effect on mood and enhancing beauty.

To see all of the fantastic products Berwick Beauty has to offer, click on over to www.BerwickBeauty.com

Predicting Color Trends Since 1991

2008-06-10T21:47:00.005-04:00

The date: October 1991
Location: West Warwick High School cafeteria
Event: Rockfest

90's colors are a hot commodity in both beauty and fashion this year. And my, who is that stylish chic wearing such bold colors? Let's call this one--pulled from the vault of Shannon's high school photo's. I had a bad perm, had big hair, was wearing a shirt that was a little too low for a girl all of 17, but I was certainly rocking the color trend. I think I even bought this outfit at Rave. Isn't that store still around too?

One thing that makes me laugh when I look at this picture is not how self confident I look, nooo, but how the event was "Rockfest" and I seemed the only one appropriately dressed to rock out. Sweaters and leggings to rock? I think not.

Beauty Wishlist--If Money Was No Object, Who Would Style Your Hair?

2008-06-09T23:18:00.004-04:00

As I sit here disgusted with my hair--all 20 inches, dead ends and dried out, I secretly wish for an email to come along and offer me a fabulous makeover. Makeovers here in Northeast PA don't happen--I have yet to find a hair stylist that rocks my world, instead just super customer service with average hair cuts.

This got me thinking, if money was no object and distance no matter--who would you want giving you the best hair style of your adult life?

There are two people I have always wanted to transform my hair:

-Nick Arrojo (Because he has a great personality, is uber talented and tells it like it is.)
-David Evangelista (Because when I met him this past Feb., he was the sweetest guy ever and did an awesome job on the model's hair for Victorya Hong.)

I know I could never afford either of their services (it's like $400 for a hair cut) but a girl can dream. What about you? Who is your dream hair stylist?

Monday's Cut: Agyness Deyn's Ma Dame Commercial

2008-06-09T01:00:00.002-04:00

This past week NY Mag's blog, The Cut, posted the French commercial from Jean Paul Gaultier's newest perfume Ma Dame featuring Agyness Deyn.

Am I the only one who thinks Agyness is probably the only person in the world who can sport a hair style as short as hers and still look incredibly gorgeous?

Check out the commercial on The Cut.

Review: Corioliss Wet to Dry Flat Iron

2008-06-08T08:38:00.009-04:00

Ever since my love affair with my Conair Infiniti Nano Silver Hair Straightener, I've been dying to try a flat iron that works on wet hair. A while back (when my hair was about 6 inches shorter) my hair stylist had used one and it seemed to do a decent job. I think we all enjoy shortcuts every now and then and I know I'd love to dry my hair and flat iron it all in one shot. That's when I decided to try out the Corioliss Wet to Dry Flat Iron.

The Corioliss Wet to Dry Flat Iron has vent holes in its plates to allow steam to evaporate as you work it through your wet hair. When I plugged in this flat iron, it emitted a very strong smell that was very unpleasant. I ended up opening the window each time I used it because I didn't want the smell to travel into other areas of the house. It was almost like a burning plastic smell, although it wasn't around any plastic and nothing was burning. It heat up pretty quickly , although there is no setting to adjust to the heat you want. Base heat is 410 (f) and the highest it is said it heat up to is 430. I normally flat iron my hair on 330 F, but I wasn't sure if the higher temperature was what it took to carry your hair from wet to dry.

The first 5 sections of hair I dried sizzled and popped as it dried my hair. It dried it fairly quickly, however I noticed that my hair seemed to look much thicker than it normally does when I flat iron. After the first 5 sections, it seemed to take longer to dry my hair. I would have to go over the same section several times for it to dry, whereas at the beginning it only took once. It took about 15 minutes to dry my hair. To be fair, my hair is 20 inches long, so I knew it would take some time.

My hair definitely thickened and looked frizzy, which was the opposite look I was going for. I couldn't move my fingers through my hair freely, as they would get caught in tangles. I was pretty frustrated and ended up turning on the Conair and using it to defrizz and straighten my locks.

I got this flat iron from Misikko, a great beauty company here in PA. They do have other flat irons to choose from and usually always have a sale going on.

Have you tried this flat iron? Am I alone in having an awful time with it?

The Ultimate Social Networking Site For Spa Enthusiasts: TheSpaProject.com Launches

2008-06-05T21:21:00.004-04:00

The Spa Project has launched the first dedicated online social network designed specifically for spa lovers. A niche-market website, The Spa Project offers: a guide to the hottest spas from around the world categorized according to special interests and consumer ratings; a social network for spa-goers and spa owners to communicate with each other; trip planning tools and resources; and a Rating Reward Program.

Designed to offer targeted benefits to discerning consumers who already incorporate the spa lifestyle into their daily routine, The Spa Project enables you to also make use of the sites’ networking features – allowing you to share and come together with other members.

You can join The Spa Project network by first creating a custom profile which enables access to the site’s features and resources. Having a profile allows you to engage in a Rating Program that rewards for every spa facility you rate. Since everyone enjoys a good perk, the Program is set up in such a way that the more spas you review, the more Spa Points you receive – which can then be redeemed for luxury gifts and discounts. For those looking to plan a spa-getaway, a Spa Trip Planner is one of the other great features on the site, enabling you to book and organize your travel. Additionally, the site boasts industry-related courses on everything from skin care and beauty to wellness and nutrition.

Check it out spa fanatics! www.thespaproject.com

A Girl's Gotta Spa! Raises $2000 For Meadow Quinn

2008-06-04T20:08:00.007-04:00

My Beauty for Good fundraiser for Meadow Quinn has finally wrapped up and we accomplished our goal. $2000 was raised thanks to many donations and through the ebay auctions of beauty products. Today I had the chance to deliver that check to Meadow and I found out that they are heading to C.H.O.P. this Saturday to start their 6 weeks at the feeding clinic! So THANK YOU to all of my readers who contributed, my friends and beauty brands who pitched in and all of my fellow bloggers that posted links telling everyone about this fundraiser. I appreciate it and most importantly, Meadow and her mom & dad appreciate it.

Thank you:

Three Custom Color Specialists
Aguacate & Co.
We Love Beauty
Beauty from the Earth
Beauty Addict
Studio 747
Mythbuster Beauty
Debutaunt
Specktra.net
Bella Sugar
Product Girl
The Daily Cookie
Yummy 411
Bionic Beauty
Makeup Moxie
Girl Gloss
Beauty & Fashion Tech
Mystical Beauty Musings
Life of a Ladybug
Temptalia
Solessence
Beauty Blogging Junkie
Distressed Derma
Sugar Shock
Nadine Haobsh
Pursebuzz
and the other private people who made donations

You made the difference in the life of a child. Thank you.

5 Tips for Whiter Teeth…Instantly!

2008-06-03T21:31:00.005-04:00

From sexy summer dresses to the hottest gladiator sandals, nothing is more important to achieving an effortlessly chic summer look than a bright white smile. Celebrity Aesthetic Dentist Dr. Jonathan B. Levine whose A-list clients include Sarah Jessica Parker, Christy Brinkley and Victoria ’s Secret Model Allesandra D’Ambrosio offers these tips that will brighten your smile INSTANTLY, without expensive procedures, whitening strips or even toothpaste! (Although he created my favorite teeth whitening product--GoSmile!)

1. Whiten While you Chew

Everyone knows that red wine and coffee stain your teeth, but some foods can actually work to whiten your teeth while you eat! The following foods remove stains by exfoliating teeth before the stain molecules have the time to attach deeply to the surface. It is like a skin scrub for your smile. Foods that whiten teeth include:

Apples
Celery
Carrots
Spinach
Broccoli
Lettuce

2. Kiss the Stain Away

Some lip colors can actually make your teeth look significantly whiter (and darker!).

If you have grayish teeth:

*Avoid: Red Lipsticks with blue tones

* Try: Cool tone with a brown base. Nude pinks with an almost brownish hue are best.

If you have yellowish teeth:

* Avoid: Deep, dark shades. Bright Shades. Super shiny glosses

* Try: Pink shades that have blue undertones. Nudes

3. Go Bronze

Golden and tan skin tones (from a bottle not from harmful UVA/UVB rays of course) not only give you a more toned, healthy appearance but also make your eyes pop and your teeth look brighter! Some of the most natural looking new tanners include:

SkinCeuticals Sans Soleil - a unique self-tanning lotion that delivers an even, natural looking tan without exposure to the sun’s harmful rays. Price: $32.00 at SkinCeuticals.com

DuWop Revolotion Body - Unlike traditional bronzers, Revolotion is actually a moisturizer that contains SPF 15 sun protection along with a kiss of bronzing pigment and subtle shimmer. The streak free, easy to apply formula is meant for legs, arms, back and decollate. Anywhere you want to show off perfect, glowing skin. Price: $28, available at Sephora and www.beauty.com

(I personally love Aqua Tan!)

4. Accessorize

Try wearing shimmering white rhinestone jewelry or gleaming silver to make your teeth appear whiter. Stay away from gold, which exaggerates any yellowish tones in teeth.

5. Clothing

A bright white shirt will only accentuate less-than-white teeth. Choose an off-white or cream-colored shade instead. Reducing the contrast will result in the appearance of a brighter, whiter smile.

Have any easy teeth whitening tips? I'd love to hear them!

Review: Joico K-PAK Shampoo & Conditioner

2008-06-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

After my hair debacle with Clairol's Perfect 10, my hair was in dire need of some help--and fast because Fashion Week was only a few days away. My hair was super dried out, the color was dull and drab (and yes I just colored it!) and my hair was a frizz nightmare. That's when I remembered how much I loved my Joico K-PAK Liquid Reconstruct and decided to try the line's shampoo & conditioner.

So remember that picture I am constantly posting? You know the one in this post that you are probably sick of by now? Well that is Joico K-PAK in action. My hair was a complete mess I tell you and I honestly thought I was going to go to Fashion Week and stick out like a sore thumb from the frizz and uber dryness. Yet, Joico's K-PAK shampoo & conditioner came to my rescue by intensely moisturizing my hair, leaving it super soft and manageable. And that's what it's meant to do after all; it's designed for damage repair.

Is your hair in need of some major therapy? Joico's K-PAK may be just what you need.

Open Letter to Neutrogena Regarding Neutrogena Wave Ads

2008-05-31T10:12:00.004-04:00

Dear Neutrogena,

It really disappoints me when a great company, whose products target the teen and 20s/30s demographic of women, use sexual innuendo to sell product. I really thought we were more intelligent than that, but obviously you don't think we are.

Let's recap how you are advertising your latest product, the Neutrogena Wave, on several blogs and websites shall we?

The flash advertisement starts off showing the Wave vibrating with the words "Turn me on" next to it. Followed by several colors of Waves vibrating, which they tend to look like a hand held ...um...vibrator? Words like "deep" and "power" are used in the advertisement and in the final frame is a picture of a teenage girl holding it to her face.

If I remember correctly RejuvaWand, another skin care product whose design had the flaw of also looking similar to a sex toy, tried desperately to get people to focus on what their product does rather than market it for what it looked like....you seem to be doing the opposite. Also, Vanessa Hudgens is being used in your commercials for this? Isn't she the teen Disney star who had the nude sex pics of herself floating around? Coincidence?

Neutrogena to me has always been a company based on values and principals, especially considering your target market is young girls. So please tell me why it is now that you have chosen to go down the path of selling tongue-in-cheek sexually-based ads for Neutrogena Wave.

Most upsetting to me? You are selling these ads through a network I am a part of and I'll have no choice but to potentially have them displayed on my blogs and I'll have to apologize to any of my readers who are also offended.

Sadly disappointed,
Shannon

Redken's Tips and Tricks for Blow-Drying Like a Pro

2008-05-29T22:21:00.003-04:00

Many women pay top dollar to get an ultra-sleek salon blow-out. A great salon blow-out creates luxurious foundation for any style and adds polish to hair, which seems impossible to replicate at home. But impossible it is not! With these easy expert tips and the right products, you’ll be blow-drying like a (Redken) pro in no time!

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED:

* Wide-tooth comb to evenly disperse product and untangle hair
* Round medium-sized boar bristle brush or nylon/boar bristle combination brush to help blow-dry sections.
* Blow-dryer with an ionic feature to seal in the cuticle and lock in moisture for high sheen (not recommended for fine hair). Get one that has at least 2 heat settings: high heat for initial drying, low heat for finishing.
--Make sure your blow-dryer has sufficient voltage and a nozzle for a controlled, polished finish.
* A flat iron creates a sleeker, smoother finish and keep ends from curling under. If you choose to use a flat iron after you blow-dry, use on hair after completely dried and make sure it has ceramic plates to diffuse heat with maximum results and less damage.

EASY STEPS FOR THE PERFECT BLOW-OUT:

1) Apply a blow-dry product, like Redken satinwear 02 blow-dry lotion or straight 05 straightening balm to hair and use a wide tooth comb to evenly disperse product.

− To add volume and substance to fine hair, try thickening lotion 06 body builder.

− For maximum lift at the roots, apply guts 10 volume spray foam.

− For unruly hair, try align 12 ultra-straight balm.

2) Blast-dry hair on high heat until 80% dry, working from the scalp to the ends using fingers to disperse heat throughout the hair.

− For added volume at the roots, turn hair upside down while drying 80% using a boar’s head bristle brush.

3) Clip hair into 3 sections: 2 on the sides and 1 in the back.

4) Blow-dry each section one inch at a time using a thick, medium-sized boar bristle brush and low heat.

− Use the nozzle on your blow-dryer to keep the airflow pointed down the hair strand to prevent unwanted fly-aways that can be exacerbated from humidity.

5) For each section, start drying hair at the scalp and then move down to the mid-length of hair. When the mid-length is dry, finish the ends.

− For ultimate heat-styling protection, try spritzing Redken fabricate 03 heat-active texturizer on each section to create texture and dimension with added heat protection.

− To avoid your arms from getting tired, make sure to keep both your elbows at shoulder level, and use your wrists and lower arm to move the brush and dryer. And if you need to, take a break in between sections.

6) To finish the look, touch up each section with a flat iron (for added heat protection, re-apply fabricate 03 heat-active texturizer on each section before flat iron use).

− For additional control and frizz-free shine on your night out on the town, finish with forceful 23 super strength finishing spray to keep that blow-dried perfection all night long.

7) Before heading out, spritz on some vinyl glam 02 mega-shine spray for instant gloss and a glam finish!

To add even more movement and bounce to this already sleek blow-out, “Roll two velcro rollers in the front two sections of your hair after your blow-dry is complete,” suggests Redken session stylist, Patricia Morales. “While the rollers are in place, apply your makeup. Then, let the rollers down and you’ll have beautiful waves with extra movement and lift in the front and you’re ready to go – a trick I often do when styling Demi Moore’s hair.” (Lucky you!)

Review: Malibu Secret

2008-05-28T20:41:00.005-04:00

Malibu Secret promises to be the body's answer to anti-aging skin care. Using key ingredients typically found in facial anti-aging moisturizers, Malibu Secret's founders say this innovative formula is like a makeover in a bottle. Intrigued, I gave it a try.

If you have grown up anywhere along the shoreline, the bottle's packaging will make you nostalgic. With "I love you" etched in the sand, the label almost reminded me of the covers from the romance novels I used to sneak from my mother's bedroom. When I opened the cap I found the scent as slightly floral, but reminded me more of Banana Boat sunblock. Once smoothed over my skin, the scent is less sunblock smelling and more perfumey. That's when memories of the beaches around Jamestown, Portsmouth, Naragansett and Prudence Island came back to mind. Just before the sand dunes there were always shrubbery and flowers...Malibu Secret's scent reminds me of this.

The lotion's texture is smooth, it quickly absorbs and is non-greasy. My skin felt incredibly soft--velvet to the touch. Naturally, well hydrated skin always gives off a more youthful, vibrant appearance. I decided to scan the ingredients on the label, only to find that not only did this product contain these "key" anti-aging ingredients, but other components that I personally feel are what made my skin so well moisturized.

For one the main ingredient is shea butter followed by sunflower seed oil, glycerin and cocoa butter--humectants, lipids and emollients. These ingredients alone would leave anyone's skin looking fabulous. Malibu Secret also contains aloe, Vitamins A, C and E, as well as other butters and oils. While I understand why the company wants to position themselves as different from the other lotions out there by promoting their anti-aging ingredients, to me Malibu Secret is a significantly wonderful product simply because it contains good-for-you ingredients that will properly moisturize your skin to help you attain a healthy glow.

Bottom line--this really is a fantastic product, but I feel it is less about the facial anti-aging ingredients in a body moisturizer and more about the other great natural skin softeners this product contains. You can get it at www.malibusecret.com for $25.

*Photo Credit: Malibu Secret

Best of the Web

2008-05-28T20:25:00.003-04:00

Au Natural: Laughter Is the Best Medicine
Click here for a quick and fun pick-me-up.

Couture in the City: Today’s Couture - Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney rocks. With everything under her belt, this innovative designer went from local London hype to an international name.

Makeup Minute found a must-have product for her summer makeup bag
Check out this smudgeproof eyeliner to start your summer right!

Moms Buzz: What to Pack for a Road Trip
many may have decided to travel by car rather by air due to the rise of airfares as a result the increasing fuel prices. Here are some travel tips for the busy mom on what to pack for a road trip, especially since we pack for almost the whole family, read about what the ttravel essentials are.

Stylenotes: Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, & Jimmy Choo
We've got the skinny on the 3 chic-est shoe designers around -- Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and Jimmy Choo.

andy&bella: Tees with Tatts!
Vintage tattoo-style images screen-printed on cotton t-shirts that come with a matching removable body-tattoo!

Review: Aqua Tan Clear Self Tanning Treatment For Faces

2008-05-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

I've raved about Aqua Tan's Self Tanning Body Milk before (no orange color, no overwhelming smell) so I decided to give their Clear Self Tanning Treatment for Faces a try. The picture to the left is the light color my skin normally is and to the right is my color after two applications of Aqua Tan. Not a huge difference, but the effects is just the way I like it...a natural looking sun kissed skin tone. As you can see from the picture above--no orange look at all (let's leave that to Sunkist Ok?)

Aqua Tan's Self Tanning Treatment for Faces comes in a 1.7 oz. spray bottle. You can either spray it directly on your face and then smooth it out or you can spray into the palm of your hand and rub it over your face. I chose to spray it into my hands, as I felt like it gave me more control over knowing exactly where the solution was being smoothed over on my face. I definitely feared orange streaks or worse--missing areas and looking patchy. Since the solution is clear it is all about being diligent with ensuring you smooth it from the inside moving out to the hair line and down your neck. Aqua Tan's color doesn't show up right away, it does take about 6 hours before you notice any color change.

I'm definitely very happy with how the color has turned out on my face. If you choose to spray Aqua Tan into your palms, be sure to wash your hand thoroughly afterwards. Aqua Tan is available at www.aqua-tan.com

Review: Salt of the Earth Fizzing Bath Soak

2008-05-25T12:00:00.001-04:00

Need to soak your cares away? I am all about products that not only help my mind wander off from the stresses of my daily life, but also make my skin feel incredible. I have been loving Salt of the Earth's Fizzing Bath Soak lately. I've tried both Warm Sugar Vanilla and Mandarin Orange to indulge my senses in their confectionary fragrance and skin softening magic.

Made with grapeseed oil, which is rich in Vitamins A & E, your skin will immediately be soothed while the fizzing disperses the delicious fragrance. Warm Sugar Vanilla smelled like a combination of vanilla and cotton candy, while Mandarin Orange was sweet, slightly citrusy with a kick of spice. I was honestly surprised by it because when it comes to bath time, I don't usually like citrus, but this really didn't smell like a true orange, and I found myself really loving it.

I can't even begin to tell you how soft your skin is going to feel from soaking in this grapeseed oil wonderland. I even let my boys with eczema have the opportunity to get their own baths in this moisturizing concoction. Duncan voiced how much better his skin felt because of it.

Salt of the Earth's Fizzing Bath Soak is available as part of the Spa Pack they offer. You won't want to be without their Salt Glow or Whipped Body Creme (I have that here too! Heaven!) You can find them at www.saltsoftheearth.net

Review: L'Occitane Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream

2008-05-24T22:14:00.003-04:00

Dry skin doesn't only occur in the winter months, chlorine and salt water can dry your skin out in the summer months too. Make sure you keep your skin well hydrated as you bare those legs in your favorite sun dress this summer. Because seriously? There is nothing more gross than seeing scaly lizard legs. To prevent this fashion faux paus you might want to give L'Occitane's Shea Butter a try.

While the texture is thick it spreads on creamy and absorbs quickly into your skin leaving no greasy residue behind. I've tried other lotions that say "shea butter" on the label only to find it listed as practically the last ingredient. L'Occitane has 25% shea butter in this rich body cream, which may not sound like a lot, but compared to others on the market, this is a pretty high concentration. It also contains other moisturizing ingredients such as apricot oil, glycerin and sweet almond oil.

The product description did say it had a slight scent of jasmine and ylang ylang, but you could've fooled me into thinking this was an unscented product because I noticed no scent at all.

L'Occitane's Shea Butter is available at www.loccitane.com for $38 (7oz)

Review: Aloepure Skin Care

2008-05-23T22:16:00.006-04:00

Aloette is a skin care company I have never heard of before...but one that I hope catches on with my other skin care guru friends. Their Aloepure line is so gentle yet so powerful, you'll wonder why more people aren't raving about this beauty brand.

Restorative Enzyme Peel: When the idea was first proposed to me to try out this peel, immediate thoughts of Freeman's Cucumber Mask entered my mind. So I was surprised when I opened the jar to find a jelly-like substance that feels like you are smoothing pure aloe across your skin. It's thick yet soothing. You apply it over dry skin and rub it in a circular motion under beading appears, then you rinse it off. It's non-drying, non-abrasive and really leaves your skin feeling wonderful.

Clarifying Facial Wash: I have combination skin and I am prone to breakouts (yes even at 33). This facial wash is thick in consistency with small jojoba beads to exfoliate and unclog your pores. It has a light citrus fragrance , but nothing too overwhelming. The Clarifying Facial Wash has a alpha and beta hydroxy acid complex that really goes to work on the problem areas of your skin.

Clarifying Deep Action Toner: Puts oily skin in check. If you have normal to dry skin, you'll want to skip this product.

Clarifying Moisture Balance: My favorite moisturizer so far. Thin in texture, absorbs quickly and is non-greasy--this moisturizer really seems to balance out my skin. It's oil-free and targeted towards acne-prone skin.

I'm also using the Hot Soy Manicure Treatment--but that baby is so good, it will get a review all on its own. All products can be purchased at www.aloette.com

5 Products For More Restful Beauty Sleep

2008-05-21T21:16:00.003-04:00

Anyone here in need of some serious shut eye? I know that working as hard as I do during the day, I crash the moment I go to bed...yet there is always something on my mind that I am thinking about sometimes keeping me from going into a deep sleep.

Through trial and error I've come up with 5 products you can't live without to get the beauty rest you need to keep you looking fresh and glowing for that 9am meeting with the boss.

1--Fraiche Bath Swizzle in Lavender Fields. LOVE this fragrance that devours your senses with this incredible bath treat. So soothing, calming and relaxing--if you are not ready to meet the sandman after taking a bath with this amazing aromatherapy product, I would seriously be surprised.

2--Skin Like Butter Shea Oil Lotion in Unscented. When your skin is deeply moisturized you have less of a tendency to scratch at your skin during the night, plus your skin will thank you for shedding those ugly flakes. This lotion is non-greasy despite the name and keeps your skin hydrated.

3--Travertine Spa Linen Spray in Lavender. Just like the bath swizzle, the scent of lavender is so relaxing. Lightly mist your bed linens a few hours before climbing into bed so that the fragrance can disperse. Take slow deep breaths to take in the aromatherapy properties and let your mind drift off to less stressful thoughts.

4--Dream Essentials Sleep Mask in Solitude. This lavender scented sleep mask will whisk you away to a deeper, more restful sleep. I never realized how much my sleep mask made a difference in the way I slept until I used it. It blocks out the light 100% (even when lights from cars driving by shine in your face!), is comfortable to wear (it will take a few days to get used to it) and overall is something I cannot live without.

5--Dr. Harry Henshaw Enhanced Healing Podcast. Dr. Harry Henshaw has a free podcast on itunes where you can download his wonderfully restful music. Each song is 5 minutes long and I downloaded several to create an hour's worth of music. Dr. Henshaw uses binaural audio tones that magically subdue you. Believe me, I was a skeptic when I first listened to this music until I played it for a few nights in a row for my kids at bedtime--and they all slept through the night (for once!) Hallelujah! I gave it a try myself and haven't used any other music since.

Have you found the perfect products that help you sleep better? Share them with everyone in the comments!

Review Aguacate & Co Serum and Facial Exfoliating Creme

2008-05-18T15:34:00.006-04:00

Certified Vegan and organic skin care company, Aguacate & Co., has some incredible beauty products. I recently had the opportunity to try out both their Essential Reinvigorating Serum and Facial Exfoliating Creme.

Facial Exfoliating Creme: The creme has the texture of a light moisturizer while the jojoba beads give the feeling of a rice-based scrub. This exfoliator is gentle enough for sensitive skin while still being strong enough to exfoliate even the flakiest skin types. There is no noticeable fragrance to it and it will leave your skin soft without feeling dried out.

Essential Reinvigorating Serum: Unlike most facial serums, Aguacate & Co.'s is not greasy. It is very thin, lightweight and quickly absorbing. Made from berry extracts and vitamin salve, this serum packs a punch to free radicals.

Besides caring for your skin, Aguacate & Co. also cares about the environment and is a member of 1% For The Planet contributing at least 1% of their net revenue to an environmental charity.

See all Aguacate & Co. has to offer at www.aguacateandco.com

Skimbaco $30 Gift Certificate Contest Winner

2008-05-16T20:15:00.004-04:00

Lady(bugs) and Gents (ok, not so much), it is now time to announce the winner of the $30 gift certificate contest to Skimbaco!

With amazingly reliable and accurate (and scientific) rendering, the winner was chosen...

Gavin identified the winning commenter...

Congrats! "Mommy," we found out, writes the blog Mollywoggin and has quite the adorable daughter. Have fun spending that gift certificate!

Valery Joseph Salon Summers in the Hamptons

2008-05-15T18:57:00.003-04:00

If I was rich and could afford to stay in the Hamptons...or if someone wealthy would simply invite me to stay at their posh estate, I would surely be front and center at Valery Joseph's salon.
Socialites rejoice. The eponymous Upper East Side salon that is so in-demand it opened a second location a few blocks away from its Madison Avenue flagship location is gearing up to open their Hamptons’ location for the third summer in a row. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Hamptonites and those who “summer in the Hamptons ,” aka the salon’s clients, can continue to look the part when frolicking in the sand and sun as Valery Joseph Salon is bringing beauty to them.

The top-notch beauty team will be providing the same services that put them on the map twice in Manhattan : cuts, blow outs, color, Kerastase deep-conditioning treatments, extensions, hair relaxing and Brazilian hair straightening (without the formaldehyde).

Regular clientele include Lauren Davis, Samantha Boardman, Caroline Kennedy, Marjorie Gubelmann Raein and Bettina Zilkha, to name a few. For your convenience, the staff will also be making house calls. (Seriously!)

The salon will be open Monday through Saturday: 9 AM – 7 PM (special hours are available upon request). Valery Joseph will be available on the weekends. To schedule your appointment, please call 631-537-8967 or visit the salon at 2545 Main Street , Bridgehampton.

*Photo Credit: NY Mag

Dear Brody--Happy 1st Birthday

2008-05-14T22:30:00.006-04:00

I cannot believe it has already been a year. Brody, the joy in my life, turned 1 today. Thinking back to what a totally anxiety-ridden pregnancy I had with him, wondering if I was going to lose another baby...and yet here he is delightful, happy and the reason I smile everyday, even when his brothers are beating the crap out of each other. This baby makes my life feel a little more sane.

And his double chin makes me feel a little thinner.

Every morning when he wakes up and babbles "mama mama" over the monitor, it brings a smile to my face. The way he gets so excited when I walk into his room as he reaches up his arms for me with the biggest smile on his face. The way he puts his head in the crick of my neck and then pats me on the back...it's hard to imagine how I made it through 365 days without falling to pieces because I love this boy so much.

Big B, Fat Cake-a Cake-a, Bro-bro..whatever we call him, to me his name means love and he fills my heart beyond anything I could ever imagine.

Brody, you are the star that lights my night and brings me comfort in knowing that despite my crazy work schedule and over abundance of beauty products taking over the house...that underneath it all, I am still a mom very much in love with you.

Happy first birthday!

Love,
Mommy

Review: Dial Yogurt Body Wash

2008-05-11T22:43:00.003-04:00

Yogurt seems to be a hot commodity these days. If it's not Activia talking about "bifidus regularis" (who made that up?!) it is beauty brands dipping their hands into the yogurt craze. With good reason of course, yogurt is a fabulous protein that helps your skin with hydration. Dial, who I usually associate with bar soap and liquid hand soap, has recently come out with a yogurt body wash that you skin is sure to find yummy. Just as Head & Shoulders surprised me with their hair care rebranding, Dial also delighted me with their nourishing body wash.

I have Dial's Yogurt Body Wash in Aloe Vera, a very soft and clean fragrance. When I first squeezed the product out of the bottle onto my bath scrunchie, I was completely surprised by how great it smelled. Impressed even. It's a nice thick gel that lathers up wonderfully and covers you head to toe in it's enriching and soothing properties.

Now this body wash isn't anything out of the ordinary for a typical body wash, but it was the fact that it came from Dial that was really the more impressive part. I loved the fragrance and luxuriousness of the creamy lather and for just a little over $5, I'd say it's a nice bargain when you want a moment of grandeur.

Berwick Beauty Auction for Meadow Quinn Now Live

2008-05-09T20:38:00.003-04:00

We're entering into the final two weeks of my fund-raising efforts for Meadow Quinn. So far the ChipIn donations are at $650 (just 32% of my goal) and the auctions have been going very well. The MAC Cosmetics auction #3 is in it's final hours (go check it out and bid before it's too late) and auction #4 is now live.
Auction #4 is from Berwick Beauty. Retail value is $185 (each set) and there are 3 product sets available. The products included are from the Coming Up Roses collection. I personally own some of these products myself and I can tell you that they are really fabulous. You can get the scoop on these great products on Beauty Pro. Many thanks to Angel & Alex, owners of Berwick Beauty for donating these products for the auction!

Please consider bidding or making a donation to Meadow via ChipIn so that my fund-raising goal can be achieved.

First time here? Please read: Beauty for Good: Fundraiser for Meadow Quinn

Borghese at Bloomingdales California Spa Experience

2008-05-08T22:06:00.003-04:00

On June 12th, 13th and 14th, Borghese invites you to a Spa Experience at Borghese at Bloomingdales in California.

Borghese Spa Experience

· Luxurious facial treatments in a private setting, targeted for you and your lifestyle

· Nourishing arm and hand massages using Borghese’s illuminating and essential body basics

· Summer color application that adds a special bloom to bronzed skin or touch of beach beauty

· Free Gift with Purchase

Book your appointment early and receive an additional gift of appreciation.

Please contact the following Borghese Counters to set up your appointment:

San Diego - 619-610-6422 – June 12th

Sherman Oaks - 818-325-2306 – June 12th

San Francisco - 415-856-5462 – June 12th & 13th

Beverly Center - 310-360-2811 – June 13th

Newport - 949-729-6705 – June 14th

Century City - 310-772-2196 – June 14th

Stanford - 650-463-2006 – June 14th

Review: Fragrant Footings by Summer Soles

2008-05-08T08:05:00.008-04:00

The warm weather is here and for me that means wearing sandals and shoes without socks. Not really a big fan of socks, but hey, I live in the mountains where it gets bone-chilling cold and it leaves me no other choice than to wear them all winter long. My feet rejoice for the warmer weather, but with the warmer weather comes the thing we all fear--your feet can not smell so "fragrant" in your favorite shoes. That's where Fragrant Footings by Summer Soles steps in. (Pun intended!)

If you remember, I bought these awesome shoes from AK Anne Klein for Fashion Week and I could not wait for Spring so I could wear them out and about. I was nervous though, I didn't want to wreck them with sweaty feet or any smell. I'm not really a fan of powders and some sprays are Ok, but I really wanted an easier (and less messy) way to handle this. I received Fragrant Footings in "Kiss me til morning mint" and set about giving them a try.

As you can see, they come much bigger than your shoe. Or at least for me they did, I wear a size 7 1/2. So I trimmed them to fit my shoe. Also, this particular shoe is square toed, so that took a little adjusting.
To make the adjustment simple, I just lined it up with the back of my shoe and trimmed it to match up.
Voila! A perfect fit! But did they work? Marvelously! I've had them in my shoes for about 4 weeks now. My shoes have zero smell to them and my feet smell like mint. Fragrant Footings are insoles made with essential oils, so there is no perfumey smell. Also, the mint isn't a high powered fragrance either, it's light and isn't shouting the obvious to people around you.

Fragrant Footings by Summer Soles also sells Fragrant Foot Pads for your open toed shoes and sandals. They come 2 pair for $15 at www.SummerSoles.com

Best of the Web

2008-05-06T22:26:00.002-04:00

Couture in the City: Today’s Couture - Belts
Harness them up ladies! Yes belts are the latest trend right now. Whether you are trying to look good in the office or for an evening event. There is a way to accent your frocks. By getting some tips from our celebrity friends, we let these trend setters pave the way.

Feel Fabulous Instantly
A quick way to change your mood from blah-dee-dah to wonderful.

Makeup Minute Gives You a Chance to Win $215 Worth of Products from Prescriptives
Enter to win Prescriptives Urban Heat sweepstakes!

Moms Buzz: Mother and Daughter Bonding for Mother's Day
A few tips that can help bridge that generation gap between your daughter and yourself. Moms Buzz believes this would a great Mother's Day gift from you to yourself!

Shrimpton Couture shows us a glam outfit
From the New York City Spring Ballet Gala

Stylenotes: Mother's Day Gift Guide
We've rounded up loads of heartfelt, useful gifts that any mom would love this Mother's Day.

Suri Cruise Ladybug Shoes from Skimbaco

2008-05-05T06:17:00.001-04:00

While I love my 4 boys to the ends of this earth, it's typically when I see super cute girl stuff that I secretly wish I had a little girl too. Did you see those adorable ladybug shoes in Suri Cruise's mudroom closet on Oprah last week? They are from an awesome Colorado-based company called Skimbaco. Run by a mother and cheerleader of indie brands, Skimbaco's ladybug shoes are made by Monkey-Toes, a Denver-based company, and are handpainted to order.
If you've read my blog long enough you know that I am a big supporter of fellow mom's in business. Skimbaco's Monkey-Toes Ladybug Shoes getting a plug on Oprah is huge, so to further your interest in this fantastic company (that is not just limited to kid's stuff) I'm going to give away a $30 gift certificate to Skimbaco.

Just visit www.Skimbaco.com and then comment on this post telling me which Skimbaco product is your favorite. You'll then be entered to win--winner will be announced May 16th. U.S. residents only and please do not post multiple comments under various aliases or you will be disqualified. (Ouch, Ok that sounded mean.)

Good luck!

Hamptons Preview Party + Spa Week

2008-05-04T12:29:00.006-04:00

The 3rd Annual Hamptons Preview Party is right around the corner and Spa Week has joined in on the festivities this year! The kick off summer event is taking place Thursday, May 8th, at Prime in New York City.

Ladies will be able to enter to win a $1,000 Spa Week Gift Card, while enjoying mini spa treatments and spatinis in the Spa Week Lounge!

This year the Hamptons Preview Party has gone green and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Soles4Souls™, an organization that facilitates the donation of shoes throughout the world. Every attendee can help make a difference!

Guests will enjoy:

· An eco-friendly Fashion Show and Designer Trunk Show, featuring four hot designers and Summer Rayne Oakes the popular model and eco-activist
· Bottomless cocktails, provided by eco-friendly 360 Vodka
· Live music performed by Hot Lava, the Hamptons hottest band
· Green-friendly fabulous gift bags
· The Spa Week Lounge which will offer mini spa treatments and a $1,000 Spa Week Gift Card Giveaway
· The Silent Auction, all proceeds go to the Soles4Souls™ non-profit organization!
· The chance to mingle with the cast of The Real Housewives of New York City

Tickets for this event are LIMITED and on sale now: Advance tickets: General Admission: $95 /VIP: $150. Pay at the door: General Admission: $150 /VIP: $200. To purchase tickets online, visit www.SoireeEventsUsa.com. For more information, call 808-782-7576 or email Info@SoireeEventsUsa.com.

Origins Friends & Family Event

2008-05-04T09:43:00.003-04:00

Meadow Quinn Fundraiser Status Update

2008-05-03T11:00:00.010-04:00

Auction #2 full of MAC Cosmetics goodies ends today--retail value is $515 and as I write this post the current bid is $260. There's only a few hours left--so get your bid in!

Auction #3 with products from MAC Collections N, Curiositease, Strobe and Beauty Powder Blush is now live! Starting bid is $50.

I'm still collecting direct donations for Meadow via the ChipIn widget in my sidebar and the offer for a 1-week ad spot still stands for beauty & fashion brands who donate $100 or more. Of course if you donate any amount and have a blog or business, you will be linked in the Thank you section of my post.

Meadow still needs to raise $28,000 to go to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia--so please help me meet my goal or exceed it! I'd like to raise at least $2000.

First time here and unsure who Meadow Quinn is? Please read my original post: Beauty for Good: Fundraiser for Meadow Quinn.

Review: Oculatum Candles

2008-05-02T15:51:00.005-04:00

Up until recently, I had never heard about Oculatum candles. I never really believed that there was such a thing as "luxury candles" up until the candles arrived at my door. In the package- Paten Susan from The Vessels Collection, Vespers Holland from The Hours Collection and Flowered Syllabub from The Vintages Collection.

Paten Susan--Tulip, Marjoram and Juniper

Vespers Holland--Frankincense, Myrrh and Cedar

Flowered Syllabub--Champagne, Dianthus and Hyssop (no longer available)

All of Oculatum's candle collections come as a trio, each with a different aromatic base-one fruited, one floral and one exotic. They are all made by hand and about half way into the candle is a saying on a small piece of paper that is revealed as the wax melts away. It is a random phrase from the book Oculatum.

Oculatum's Candles are very fragrant. I love a candle that not only smells good when you open the package, but continues with that same fragrance as it burns. All of the wax is pure and free of any chemical color enhancements and the wicking is cotton. Not only do these candles delight your senses with their rich indulgence of scent, but the packaging also makes you want to display it as an accessory to your decor, as well.

Each candle is $36 at www.oculatum.com

Review: Appellation Grapeseed Hand & Nail Cream

2008-05-01T21:27:00.003-04:00

Dry, winter hands got you down? You surely want to show off that matching pedicure and manicure this spring, but who wants to see your man hands? Certainly not me (and I can guarantee your friends don't either!) If you love the smell of a full bodied wine and know the benefits of grapeseed, you'll definitely want to check out Appellation's Grapeseed Hand & Nail Cream.

This delicious smelling antioxidant spa treatment for your hands will have you booking your next trip to Napa Valley in no time. It quickly absorbs and has no greasy residue, smells incredible and effectively hydrates your cuticles and skin with the benefits of grapeseed, echinacea, pro-vitamin B5, sage, yarrow and vitamins A & E.

So bring the feminine back to your hands (please?) and give Appellation a try. Need more convincing? Check out my previous review on their bath & body products.

Grapeseed Hand & Nail Cream $24.50 at appellation.cc

Timi & Leslie Luxury Diaper Bags Trunk Show in New York

2008-05-01T13:41:00.003-04:00

Best of the Web

2008-04-29T22:57:00.002-04:00

TotSnob helps you find a Babysitter!
MommyMixer is a babysitter networking company. For those who have interviewed sitters after sitters, you know how much valuable time that eats up, with this service, you can do all of it in one afternoon!

Chic, Eco-Friendly Bags
Make a Fashion Statement and Help the Environment

Couture in the City: Enter to Win Frownies Face Lift in a Bag Giveaway
Are you ready to reduce those lines between your eyes? Then enter our Frownies Face Lift in a Bag giveaway!

Makeup Minute's Caption Contest
Give the picture the best caption and you could win a free Spinlash!

Stylenotes: Pat Field Creates Another Collection for Payless
Patricia Field, designer and stylist, once again collaborates with Payless to create a footwear and handbag collection.

San Saba Spa Adds Tequila To Your Spa Experience

2008-04-29T21:31:00.004-04:00

San Saba Spa is adding flare to its menu with a new Tequila themed package created for those wishing to add a twist to their spa experience. The Head-to-Toe Tequila Package is a new blend of infusion unique to the 5,200 square foot spa, located at Lakeway Resort and Spa in Austin, Texas. Currently the spa offers Massage & Martini's on Monday's, Facials & Frappuccino's on Tuesday's, Manicures & Mimosa's Wed. & Thurs. (Christina this is calling your name) and Pedicures & Pinot Grigio on Friday's.

The Resort is the largest on Lake Travis and offers a wonderful blend of resort facilities and amenities coupled with lakeside perks. This setting continues to instill the overall sense of hydrotherapy provided by the spa. In fact, each guest who partakes of this new packaged indulgence begins their spa experience in the relaxation room with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and balconies overlooking the lake. The tranquil effects of the water, with sweeping views and audible tones, provide the ideal beginning to the relaxation about to unfold. With sensory sight and sound at peace, fresh fruit and beverages provide a flavorful element for the palette, soon to be followed by scent and touch.

The experience continues in the treatment room with a lime and sea salt scrub – an accompaniment to the theme. The refreshing citrus awakens and rejuvenates, while the aromatherapy deep tissue massage is the perfect complement to follow. The subtle scent of sage and tequila infused oil fulfills all desires of the last two senses and leaves the guest in an exquisite state of relaxation.

After the treatments, guests can continue to unwind with a complimentary top shelf margarita with breathtaking views of the lake in any one of three dining outlets. Plan your spa day to end just before sunset for an exceptional treat.

The Head-to-Toe Tequila package will be available beginning June 1, 2008. The package retails at $210.00, including gratuity, for the 25-minute lime and sea salt scrub, followed by the 50-minute tequila and sage deep tissue massage (worm may or may not be included). Services may also be purchased individually. For additional details or to make reservations visit Lakeway Resort and Spa's website.

Ps. I was kidding about the worm just in case there were some of you who got excited about that part!

Borghese Bloomingdales 59th Street Event – May 10th

2008-04-28T21:52:00.003-04:00

All Borghese Customers are entitled to the following at their Bloomindales 59th Street Event on May 10th:

Spa Facial in a private setting
Hand and Arm massage
Spring Color application
Complimentary Tarot card reading (not sure how this really fits in)
Gift with Purchase

To book your appt, call the Borghese counter at (212) 705-2885.

5 Skincare Questions for Dermatologist, Dr. Benabio

2008-04-27T22:21:00.003-04:00

A dermatologist friend of mine, Dr. Benabio, writes an excellent blog that I think everyone should be reading--The Derm Blog. He was also recently quoted in O, the Oprah Magazine (so you know he's got to be good). I decided to get his expert opinion on some skincare questions and share them all with you.

What is the best way to treat oily/combination skin without drying out your skin?

The key is to not overdo it. Some people have skin that is so oily that it almost never gets dry and flaky. If, however, your skin has a tendency to flake, then you might be using cleansers that are too harsh or you might be over-scrubbing. I recommend starting by cleansing your face in the morning with a product meant for combination skin such as Olay Daily Facials Cleansing Cloths for Combination Skin. You can then use a toner if you wish, but I think they are often unnecessary. If you like the feel of a toner after washing, then I recommend something mild like Peter Thomas Roth's Oxygen Mist. Then apply a non-greasy sunscreen before applying your makeup. I recommend Olay Complete Defense Daily UV Moisturizer SPF 30 Sensitive Skin or Aveeno Positively Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 with Shiitake Mushroom extract. At night, wash off all your makeup with the Oil of Olay Cleansing Cloths. Apply a moisturizer for oily skin such as Skinceuticals Renew Overnight Oily Cream or Oil of Olay Regenerist.

I occasionally find that when I use products meant to control sebum, that sebum seems to be produced even more. How can I stop that awful shine in my T-zone without messing up my skin?

Believe it or not, you are lucky. Oily skin is easier to manage and often appears younger than dry, irritated skin. You just need to focus on products that will reduce your skin's natural oils. In the morning, use a cleanser for oily skin such as Neutrogena Pore Refining Cleanser. You also probably like using toners and can tolerate one like Kiehl's Tea Tree Oil Toner. The next product is the important one: Apply an oil control gel such as Ferndale Clinac O.C. Oil Control Gel before applying your sunscreen and makeup. This will prevent that oily shine from surfacing. At night, use the same cleanser. You could also try a facial scrub once a week, such as Philosophy Microdelivery peel.

Which skincare products do you recommend for: acne-prone skin, dry skin, combination skin?

For acne-prone skin use a salicylic acid cleanser such as Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. Then apply a benzoyl peroxide cream such as Oxy Balance with 5% benzoyl peroxide (5% is just as effective as 10% and is a lot less irritating).

For dry skin, use a cleansing cream like Noxzema Cleansing Cream. Never use a toner, as this will likely dry out your skin further. Then use a moisturizer like Eucerin Sensitive Facial Skin Q10 with SPF 15. You should try to moisturize one more time during the day if possible.

Which product do you feel is the most over rated and which is the best but seems under valued?

Overrated: Strivectin (the "better than Botox?" cream). It's not.

Undervalued: prescription retin-A creams like Renova.

Can you give 3 do's and don'ts for skin care?

Do: Wear a broad- spectrum sunscreen every day. Don't believe all the hype that lots of sun is good for you. See my post on tanning for much more detail.

Do: Wash your makeup off completely every night. It can lead to clogged pores, pimples, and even skin infections.

Do: Realize that women and men even in their 20's can get melanoma. Check your skin regularly and see a physician if you have a changing or concerning mole.

Don't: waste money on products that are not designed for your particular skin. Many women with dry skin waste money on toners while women with oily skin waste money on expensive moisturizers. Know what your skin needs and choose products accordingly. Also, remember that many over-the-counter skin care products are just as effective as more expensive designer products.

Don't: use a magnifying mirror and tweezers to find and pick at pimples or other minor skin blemishes. I promise you, you will only make it worse.

Don't: get medical advice or treatments, including Botox, fillers, and lasers from a non-professional. Be sure that a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is present if you are going to have any invasive cosmetic procedures performed.

Beauty for Good: Fundraiser for Meadow Quinn

2008-04-20T11:46:00.021-04:00

As a mom, it completely breaks my heart when I hear about a child in need of medical attention. It breaks my heart further when their insurance company denies to pay for that treatment. Local Northeast PA 1st grader, Meadow Quinn, needs to raise $70,000 to pay for a feeding clinic program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Knowing that I have so many unused beauty products just sitting here, I have decided to help out.

Meadow Quinn has a disease called Neurofibromatosis. She has several inoperable tumors and has been fed through a feeding tube since she was 18 months old. A feeding clinic that will require a 4 week stay will help her to learn to eat like any other 7 year old. Can you imagine knowing that there is something out there that will help your child--it is within reach--yet you don't have the money to pay for it?

Meadow mentioned on Oprah's Big Give
So far $42,000 has been raised, but I would love to bring that amount even closer to her goal. Would you like to help? Then please take a look at the ebay auctions I have set up to raise the funds. Once each auction is live, they will be linked directly to the auction page.

Auction #1: SOLD!! $495 raised!!!

MAC Cosmetics Limited Edition Products 1 Retail Value- $502
Includes products from: Fafi, Heatherette, Finery and Heirlooms

Auction ended.

Auction #2: SOLD!! $425 raised!!!

MAC Cosmetics Limited Edition Products 2 Retail Value $515
Includes products from: N Collection, Viva Glamorous, Royal Assets, Antiquitease

Auction ended

Auction #3:

MAC Cosmetics Limited Edition Products 3 Retail Value: $442
Includes products from: Curiositease, Beauty Powder Blush, Strobe, N Collection gift pack from Fashion Week

Auction begins May 3

Auction #4:

Berwick Beauty Coming Up Roses (3 individual auctions) Retail Value: $185 (each auction)
Includes Restoring Night Cream, Lightening Cream, Nourishing Cream, Contouring Eye Gel and Balancing Day Cream.
To learn more about Berwick Beauty read Beauty Pro.
Auction relisted!

Auction #5:

Beauty Gift Pack Retail Value: $473
Includes Elizabeth Arden Intervene Pause & Effect Moisture Cream, Elizabeth Arden Mediterenean Breeze 3ml EDP, Elizabeth Arden Smoky Eyes Powder Pencil, Artemis Woman Heel Smoother & Topaz Butter, Sharon Bolton Scents Luv Perfume Oil, Nars Bronzing Powder, Nars Lip Gloss/Lip Stain Duo, Nars Kabuki Artisan Brush, Lancome L.U.C.I. Photonic, Lancome Color Fever Plumper (in Ample), Lancome Courbe Virtuose Mascara (in Black) and Billy B Beauty Paint Brush Four.

Auction begins May 15

Please help me spread the word.

If you would like to make a direct donation to Meadow Quinn, you can do so via sending a check to the following location:

Wallenpaupack North Primary
c/o Becky Schaepe
158 Atlantic Avenue, Hawley, PA 18428

Whether person or business, if you make a direct donation to Meadow, please let me know and I will publicly thank you and link to your blog or business (once your donation has been confirmed by the family--please put A Girl's Gotta Spa in the memo section). (**A ChipIn Widget is also available in the sidebar for your convenience.)

Fashion & Beauty Businesses (family friendly)--If you make a direct donation to Meadow Quinn of $100 or more, I will give you free ad space for 1 week in my sidebar. Please email me for details.

Thank you for donating:

Debutaunt
Studio 747
Three Custom Color Specialists *Beauty Brand $100 donation!*
Mythbuster Beauty
Beauty Addict
Beauty from the Earth
Aguacate & Co. *Beauty Brand $100 donation!*
We Love Beauty *Beauty Brand $300 donation!*

Review: Hairagami Spring Rings

2008-04-19T13:46:00.003-04:00

Seems spring has been completely skipped over here in the Poconos and summer has stepped in. My hair is super long with no intentions to cut it and I needed some heat relief. Normally, I have no where important to go, just running errands or doing mom stuff that doesn't require me to be a glamazon, so it's normally pulled back into a ponytail on warm days. When I saw Hairagami's Spring Rings at my local CVS the other day, I thought it was the answer to some fashionable updo hair.

25 tries and hours later I was frustrated. I kept following the directions of a low ponytail, twisting my hair up my head and then using the pointed end from bottom to top and interlocking the two for a secure fit. It just wasn't happening. Either the "knots" on the Spring Rings were getting caught into my hair not allowing me to twist around my hair further (when there was much more Spring to go) or I'd get it twisted around only to let go and have my hair fall to my shoulders. No matter how hard I tried it just wouldn't hold my hair.

My hair isn't unusually thick and the length goes mid-back. There's nothing on the package that says it you have long hair that it won't work, etc. and I honestly felt like a complete hair idiot. Why couldn't I get these things to work!?

I took a break and tried again on day two, but after about 40 minutes, I gave up. It just was not meant to be. So back to my boring ponytail until I can find something to make me look like the fashionista that I am. 'Cause no one is believing that I am when I am all mommy-fied.

Have you tried these? Have they worked for you?

*Photo Credit: Hairagami

Bond No. 9 Swarovski Stars

2008-04-18T20:54:00.006-04:00

* I want this, if anything, for the gorgeous bottles.Direct from Bond--
Bond No. 9 and Swarovski, innovators in the field of perfume and cut crystal, team up to create Bond No. 9 Swarovski Stars in best-selling Bryant Park, Bleecker Street and Nuits de Noho scents. These three blinged out Bond No. 9 scents sparkle with thousands of Swarovski crystals, so tiny that they shimmer and gleam as one. Bond No. 9 Swarovski Stars Limited-Edition Collectibles will arrive in May, in the Mother’s Day nick-of-time.

And for moms on the go-- from soccer to socialite-- Bond No. 9 offers Swarovski Stars Bon Bons (pictured), a chic collection of all three scents (plus Eau de New York in white) in crystallized 6ml purse-sprays. In a word: Brilliant.

Available in May 50ml for $650; Swarovksi Stars Bon Bons Collection for $700
www.bondno9.com

Boom Boom Beauty Bar Grand Opening in New York

2008-04-16T09:57:00.007-04:00

Malynda Vigliotti (aka Boom Boom) opened Boom Boom Beauty Bar in Santa Rosa, California three years ago and now she’s taking a bite out of the Big Apple with Boom Boom Beauty Bar at 35 7th Avenue. Boom Boom, known to be quite the character, has some pretty hilarious names for her waxing, tinting and makeup applications...

Naturally there are arms, brows, chin, etc. known as "Uptown--Above the Fabulous Belt" then of course you have your typical bikini area and legs "Downtown--Below the Fabulous Belt." If we want to talk about your nether region, you can take a "Trip to Brazil" or have your "Landing Strip" or "Bermuda Triangle" taken care of. I nearly spit my coffee out when I saw that men can be taken care of with her "For the Boys--Back, Crack & Sack" option.

While Boom Boom may have a wonderful sense of humor and makes beauty fun, she is also well trained from the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in the fashion & beauty business for a long while. She also gives back and donates 1% of all services to UNICEF.

Humor and kindness in your beauty technician? It sounds like a lot of fun to me, plus this place is gorgeous!

Boom Boom Beauty Bar
35 7th Avenue (between 12th and 13th Streets)
New York, New York
212-229-BOOM
www.boomboombeautybar.com

Best of the Web

2008-04-15T22:06:00.003-04:00

Couture in the City: Kate Moss Win’s Glamour’s Top Fashion Award
Fashion icon Kate Moss was given the annual best-dressed womens’ award at the top of Glamour Magazine’s List, replacing 2007 winner Kylie Minogue who slumped to 19th this year.

Makeup Minute is loving clump free volumized lashes.
Spinlash is the newest mascara tool to help you achieve gorgeous lashes.

Moms' Buzz: Men's Trend for Spring 2008 - Keep Your Husband in Style!
Fashion is also hot for men this Spring 2008. There is always something trendy for all men's style. This Spring season, men's trend is characterized by...find out!

Stylenotes: Beauty Buzz -- The Best Mascara for Your Buck
We’ve tested dozens of mascara, to bring you the very best from volumizing, lengthening, waterproof, and more, in a price range of $1.99-$23.

Tot Snob pampers Moms with Philosophy Bath Set
Enter to win Philosophy's Thank You bath set at Tot Snob!

ReVive: Moisturizing Renewal Cream

2008-04-13T20:16:00.005-04:00

I know I am not laten with wrinkles, but I am very aware that my skin is aging. My face sags in places it never did before, fine wrinkles seem to pop up everyday and there are plenty of days I just don't want to be reminded that I am almost 34. Shortly before Fashion Week I began trying ReVive's Moisturizing Renewal Cream. I always seem the most skeptical of expensive creams ($165), but when I began getting compliment after compliment on my skin, it made me a believer.

ReVive's Moisturizing Renewal Cream is a night cream that is not as thick as it looks in the jar. It is a "dry" kind of night cream--meaning I felt no oily residue as I smoothed it over my skin. It just seemed to absorb as quickly as I applied it. The Moisturizing Renewal Cream contains glycolic acid, so while your skin is being hydrated it also utilizing this exfoliant to shed your dead, dull skin cells.

When I met David Evangelista he was flabberghasted when I mentioned my age and how many kids I had during our conversation. He genuinely asked, "Really? You Look 12! Wow, I thought you were college-age let alone in your 30's with 4 kids! Your skin looks amazing. You really look so much younger."

I know I keep posting this same picture over and over, but not only did my makeup look outstanding (thank you Lancome!) but my skin looked ridiculously fabulous too!

This is great stuff and I cannot deny it based on the results.

*Photo Credit: ReVive

Review: Aromafloria For Feet's Sake Spa Foot Butter & Scrub

2008-04-11T22:14:00.004-04:00

It's about that time of year ladies (and men). This past week here in PA the temps were near 70 and I found myself slipping on my sandals. Make sure your feet are in tip top shape by regularly exfoliating them and keeping them moisturized. Aromafloria's For Feet's Sake line should do just that.

Double Action Spa Foot Scrub: This is a thick sugar scrub for your feet that will also invigorate your senses. The organic peppermint & eucalyptus are refreshing and also feel great on your skin. This scrub really works great to soften your heals and other callouses on your feet.

Intense Repair Spa Foot Butter: There is no greater way to pamper your feet than to apply a moisturizing lotion to them after exfoliating. Aromafloria's Spa Foot Butter has aloe to soothe and essential oils and shea butter to deeply hydrate. Just like the Spa Foot Scrub, the Spa Foot Butter has organic peppermint & eucalyptus for a stimulating fragrance.

Both products are $10.50 each and available at Aromafloria.com. Have you tried them?

Review: Aqua Tan Self Tanning Body Milk

2008-04-08T21:13:00.003-04:00

Aqua Tan is the best self tanner out there.

Review over.

Because, really? This product is so great, don't waste your time reading my review--go out and get it!

Ok, if you insist on a full review, where do I begin? I honestly didn't believe the hype about this self tanner because I have yet to come across one that 1. Does not smell bad 2. Is moisturizing like a lotion and 3. Gives a truly natural "tanned" look. Yet, from the moment I opened the bottle and the light fragrance reminded me of walking into Bath & Body Works, I knew this self tanner was going to be a stand out.

Aqua Tan's Body Milk is creamy like a thin silky lotion and appears white as you disperse it into your hands. However, as you smooth it over your skin it is clear and feels (and smells) much like a lotion as well. The Body Milk is moisturizing with Shea Butter, Kukui Nut Oil, Avocado Oil, Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E. The Body Milk absorbs quickly--by the time I was done applying it to my arms and legs it was dry and I was able to put my clothes back on right away.

I didn't notice any immediate color to my skin, that came about 2 hours later and it literally looked like I had been sunbathing on the beach in Aruba. I'm very fair skinned and my skin was a gorgeous light bronze color. I was so pleased that one application really had such great results and I applied another application the following day. Just two applications lasted me about 8 days without having to apply anymore and without immediately fading.

Do make sure you wash your hands well after applying Aqua Tan, as I thought I had gotten it all off my hands until the following day when I noticed a lone bronze spot. While this self tanner is $37--don't hesitate--it is worth every penny!

I'm saving my bottle now until shorts weather so that I can show off the gorgeous color without having ever stepped out into the sun. Fabulous!

Best of the Web

2008-04-08T20:54:00.002-04:00

A Shrimpton Couture Celebrity Vintage Spot
Check out Nicole Richie looking hot in vintage jeans!

Couture in the City: Katie Holmes - A New Style Icon
Katie Holmes -the latest Mrs.Cruise - has become to the fashion and style industry quite the trend setter.

Makeup Minute doesn't need an umbrella for Lord & Berry's Raincoat Protecting Mascara
Learn about a waterproof mascara that isn't dry or clumpy!

Meditation Tips for Women on the Go
These 5 fabulous tips will bring balance to even the most hectic days.

Moms Buzz: Teaching Kids How to Give Compliments
This video that you will watch is about the importance of teaching kids how to give compliments. This may sound a bit strange at the beginning to you since it is one of the few people skills we do not usually emphasize on your kids because for some reason we do not expect kids to give compliments.

Stylenotes: Take Note -- Generra
Generra ermerged in the 1980s and has become one of the top labels for understated, chic apparel -- read on for more about the brand.

TotSnob: Twinkle Ocean Cake Kit Kids Giveaway!
To enter, give your best advice on how to keep toys neat and organized! A winner will be chosen April 11th.

All Top's Beauty Blog Category

2008-04-07T22:45:00.002-04:00

So excited that I was asked by All Top who the best beauty bloggers were. I am not going to lie--I totally said I was. ha. No surprise to those who know me and that this year is "all about me" (poke Christina). More exciting than seeing my blogs on All Top, are seeing a big group of my friends as well. Great blogs like Beauty Addict, Makeup Bag, Afrobella, The Derm Blog and many more.

Go check it out and discover many other great blogs!

Home Spa Skin Care Tips from Joyce Carboni Part Two

2008-04-01T22:46:00.002-04:00

- Looking for a quick lift? Brush on raw egg whites; they shrink as it dries leaving your face firm and soft. Let it sit on your skin for 10 minutes and rinse with water. Viola!

- Don’t just drink it! Chamomile tea is great for easing irritated, red and/or puffy skin. For the eyes, chamomile tea bags soaked in cold water will do the trick – blot with a paper towel and apply to eyes. For your skin, boil water and pour it into a spray bottle. Add a bag of chamomile tea, brew and place in fridge until cool. Then, mist on your face for easy relief. Chamomile tea can also help clear up acne.

- If your face is starting to reflect stress and fatigue, restore a super radiant glow to your skin with a mini facial. Start by washing your face with your usual cleanser; wait a minute before rinsing to make sure all dirt and oil is loosened. Next, soak a washcloth in hot water and several drops of lavender essential oil (which will soothe your skin). Gently press over your face to loosen pores, concentrating on your t-zone. Apply this facial mask to give skin a glow. Blend 1 cup of chopped pineapple (alpha-hydroxy acids lift dead skin cells and debris) and 3 tbsp. of olive oil. Apply this facial mask to give skin a glow, leave on for ten minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. Finish by massaging your face gently with a moisturizer for five minutes to help relieve tension.

- Nobody likes an unkempt bikini line. But what’s the best way to get that perfectly groomed bikini body? Shaving and plucking can fix any immediate hair removal need, but waxing is the easiest and most efficient way to achieve the perfect bikini line. To make waxing easy, you should exfoliate regularly between treatments while your hair is growing out. After waxing, you can also apply a moisturizer with soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients such as aloe, licorice extract or green tea, to combat any redness. 1% hydrocortisone cream also works wonders to relieve post-wax skin irritation.

Missed Part 1? See it here: Home Spa Skin Care Tips

Home Spa Skin Care Tips from Joyce Carboni Part One

2008-04-01T22:33:00.005-04:00

The following beauty tips from Joyce Carboni, founder and CEO of Skinsational Skin and Body Spa in San Diego, allow any woman to be beautiful on a small time and cash budget. Joyce is a licensed esthetician committed to educating men and women on how to easily care for their skin at home through her useful tips and her signature line of skin and body care products. And with over 25 years of skin and body care experience, she understands that sometimes, all you have is ten minutes and the products in your cupboard. And with the summer months just around the corner, she even unlocks the secret to keeping that unruly bikini line groomed and hair free.

- Take advantage of those extra coffee grounds! For extra smooth and firm skin, brew a pot of coffee and use the left over warm grounds in the shower as an exfoliant. The caffeine has a mildly firming effect and the grounds will softly exfoliate your skin leaving it smooth and delicious.

- Got milk? Instead of cleanser, reach for that milk! Milk of magnesia that is. Just as magnesium hydroxiate acts as an anti acid in your belly, it neutralizes oily skin.

- Need to exfoliate? Blend oatmeal, sugar or even cornmeal with a small amount of oil (vegetable or olive) and a raw egg yoke. The Vitamin A from the egg makes this a natural retinoid and is great because Vitamin A is a dominant vitamin of the skin! If you use oatmeal, it acts as a skin softener and also has amino acids, which help draw in moisture.

Just be sure to avoid any scratches or cuts; if mixed with that raw egg, you could end up with an infection or even worse, salmonella!" Joyce says.

- Have a zit? Crush aspirin and blend with water until you have a nice paste. Dilute the paste with water and apply to your zit. Aspirin has salicylic acid, the same beta hydroxy acid that is used in numerous acne products and peels – who knew!

See Part 2 with more great tips: Home Spa Skin Care Tips

Best of the Web

2008-04-01T22:08:00.003-04:00

I am the newest blogger to be added to Mom's Buzz "Best of the Web" weekly link round up. So excited to be grouped with other moms in fashion & beauty.

Makeup Minute loves Christopher Kane's Juicy Tubes World Tour!
Red Hot New York will leave you looking red hot with Christopher Kane's collaboration with Lancome for their newest Juicy Tubes.

Couture in the City: Fashion Chic and Couture - Indulge in Spring Styles this Season
Continuing in the vein of the spring season, yesterday we were keeping up with our beauty regime. Today we are focusing on our fashion and styles for spring.

Expensive strollers, face creams, and vacuums -- are these high end products worth the hype?
Is the Bugaboo worth the $800 price tag? What about La Mer cream or the Dyson? Sound off with your opinions!

Moms Buzz: "What You Owe to Your Kids" by Donald Trump
Here is an interesting article Moms Buzz found in Trump University blog written by Donald Trump himself about "What You Owe to Your Kids."

Stiletto Jungle: Louis Vuitton Montorgueil Handbag
Feel caught between a 20-something's starter LV and a 50-something's massive monogram Louis? We've found a Louis Vuitton for the rest of us.

Stylenotes: The Latest Trends in Maternity Wear
Shop the latest trends in maternity wear without having to dip into your child’s college fund. Stylenotes shows you how to get chic dresses, shoes, tops, and more at affordable prices.

WIN! - Arte Bebe Fantasy Shopping Cart
The rules are simple, choose up to $175 worth of merchandise from Arte Bebe and put the names of the merchandise in our comments. We will pick one winner at random and the winner will win everything that was listed!

Want the Body of a Ballerina?
Give your workout a twist. Try a routine that is fun, different, and guaranteed to give you grace and poise along with a knockout bod!

Review: Clairol's Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy

2008-03-30T21:48:00.008-04:00

I received Clairol's Perfect 10 by Nice 'n Easy back in December prior to its launch. Since I signed a contract to keep mum about it, I decided not to use it until I could tell you all about it. That day came shortly before I left for Fashion Week on January 31st. Unfortunately, I couldn't give this product an overwhelming good review (and I see my friend's at DeLush felt the same way). Most of my life I have used Clairol's products to color my hair, so I decided to give them the opportunity to respond to my concerns over Perfect 10.

Perfect 10 is supposed to color your hair in 10 minutes, fully cover grays and leave hair shiny and healthy looking. The kit comes with a comb you attach to the bottle to provide faster and more even coverage of the hair color.

The Bad:
* The comb applicator dripped dye everywhere. I like the idea of it and it covered a large section of hair, but it is not practical at all when it is so messy.

* The smell stung my eyes and I had to open the bathroom window.

* The shine booster and softener didn't really act like a conditioner because even after spraying detangler in my hair it looked dry and like a tangled rats nest. Ouch to all that brushing.

* Even after drying my hair it looked kind of dried out.

* I normally use Dark Brown (Sabel Cove in Clairol's Hydrience) to color my hair, but Dark Brown with Perfect 10 made my hair jet black.

The Good:
* Just using the regular root applicator worked fine, no mess.

* I like the fruity smell of the shine booster.

* Once I used my hair straightener, my hair looked amazing. (The Conair Infiniti Nano Silver Hair Straightener will change your life forever!!!)

* I got compliments all morning on my hair color and how shiny my hair was.

Marcy Cona, Clairol's Director of Color & Style's response:

Tip 1 - How to pick the right shade

· When coloring your hair, the end result is a combination of the shade you choose plus your current color. When choosing your shade make sure to look at the shade chart on the side of the box to find your current color, if your current color is not on the box, you’ve probably either gone too many shades dark or light.

· In the future, I recommend testing a strand of your hair before applying it all over. Take a small section of hair from underneath the ear area, mix a small amount of color and developer, use the applicator tip and apply - then process for 10 minutes. Rinse, blow dry and then take a look at your new hair color against your skin to get a sneak peak of the end result before applying it all over.

· If you felt the overall hair color was too dark, next time select one shade lighter to avoid getting that “too dark” look.

Tip 2 - How to best apply the color

· The Perfect 10 instructions (option B) also provides the following tip: apply the color to your roots by using the applicator tip, so you can guide and control your application. This will also help you guide the amount of product that is dispensed. After applying to the roots, replace the applicator tip with the PerfectColor Comb to apply and comb through the remaining color to the rest of the hair.

· One additional thought, when using the comb you do not need to squeeze too hard, due to the design of the bottle, and flow of the comb, the haircolor dispenses very easy and quickly!

Tip 3 - How to get soft, silky hair after coloring

· Perfect 10’s high-performance color crème works at a lower pH level (pH 9 instead of 10-11), which preserves hair’s f-layer or natural protective coating and protects hair surface quality over time.

· Be sure to use the ColorSeal Conditioning Gloss after coloring and leave in for 2 minutes or up to 10 minutes for a deep conditioning treatment. The intensive conditioner has our exclusive ColorSeal complex that seals the outer layer of the hair (called the cuticle), helping to keep hair from looking faded, dull and dry.

Have you used this product? Please share your experience in the comments.

Jamaica Opens Three Magnificient New Spas

2008-03-29T12:17:00.003-04:00

Jamaica is attracting a new generation of elite travelers looking for island-inspired pampering and luxury with the opening of three spectacular new spas: Soothe Spa at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club, Driftwood Spa at Jake’s Resort, and Fern Tree, The Spa at Half Moon. Using indigenous natural ingredients like Blue Mountain coffee, mango, ginger and allspice, these innovative venues have created a selection of unique treatments that spa aficionados will love to travel for. With the glorious landscape and exotic tropical setting, Jamaica’s exquisite spa experience is simply irresistible.

Soothe Spa at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club

Honoring the proud legacy of Jamaican hospitality and island life with a fresh flair, Soothe Spa at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club offers guests custom-designed treatments using indigenous elements from the surrounding land and sea. Situated between the lush Jamaican mountains and the ocean, this enchanting retreat presents an extensive array of services, from deep-tissue massages to exfoliating facials. A popular treatment setting is an 18th-century aqueduct that was used to irrigate the sugarcane plantations, and now creates a dramatic space for private spa treatments amid stone ruins, open to the Caribbean skies.

Jake’s Driftwood Spa

Jake’s, the exotically styled, bohemian-chic hotel on Jamaica’s South Coast, has recently opened the Driftwood Spa, named for the use of natural local elements in its architecture.

Nestled in a quiet cove overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Driftwood Spa focuses on life-enhancing rituals to reconnect the mind, body and spirit. It contains two spacious outdoor treatment rooms, offering holistic treatments that incorporate diverse Caribbean essential oils and ingredients. Guests can choose from a variety of rare treatments including: Bona Fide Blue Mountain Coffee Scrub, Mocha Rum Wrap, Exotic Ginger and Lemon Grass Scrub, and the Treasure Beach Melon Drench.

Fern Tree, The Spa at Half Moon

Fern Tree, The Spa at Half Moon, officially opened in the fall of 2007, integrating modern spa techniques with Jamaica's ancient healing remedies of native herbs, fruits and botanicals. The Spa introduces clients to a Spa Elder, who guides guests through the four phases of wellness: addressing the individual, the body, the mind and the spirit. The Spa evokes a sense of calm with many water features, including a reflection pool, koi pond, a soaking pool and a swimming pool with a romantic waterfall. On arrival, guests begin their journey with a ceremonial footbath while enjoying traditional Jamaican Bush Tea. The signature scent of Fern Tree includes a mixture of allspice, orange and ginger. This development includes six new signature beachfront spa suites adjacent to the spa, providing all the comforts found in a traditional hotel suite plus the added features and services of a personal spa.

I surely would love to end up at one of these spas in Jamaica...one day, one day! You can learn more about Jamaica at www.visitjamaica.com.

Spa Aqua: Mayan Spirit Evoked In Unparalled Luxury Experience

2008-03-27T18:49:00.004-04:00

Water surrounds and envelopes guests at Spa Aqua. Located within the Aqua Cancun hotel, Spa Aqua offers multi-sensory treatments firmly rooted in Mayan culture as well as relaxation techniques perfected in Sweden , Australia , Polynesia , Morocco and India .

Based on traditional local and global healing therapies, Spa Aqua treatments elevate the traditional spa experience to a new level of healing for the mind, body and soul. In addition to unique therapies administered in specialized pools, Spa Aqua features a variety of diverse inside and seaside treatment rooms, creating a multitude of experiences for couples and individuals alike.

Worldly Treatments Unite at Spa Aqua...

By fusing ancient Mayan massage and relaxation techniques with global influences, Spa Aqua is able to offer an array of unique new treatments. Performed by highly trained native-born therapists, Spa Aqua treatments utilize the finest imported spa products and natural ingredients. Spa Aqua’s distinctive approach transports guests to the peak of emotional harmony and balance.

Spa Aqua specializes in Watsu treatments — Japanese Shiatsu massages while floating in water. Warm water surrounds the body during this treatment, relaxing the mind and body while also blocking out extraneous sounds. As relaxation sets in, the peaceful rhythm of one’s own beating heart is all that is left to hear.

Another signature Spa Aqua treatment is Le Sieste. During this treatment, the body is submerged in water that remains a constant 97 F. At this temperature, the body reaches its maximum potential to allow the vitamin, seaweed and mineral salt infused water to treat every pore.

Spa Aqua offers Mayan and hot stone massages as well as exclusive Mexican treatments. These exceptional treatments include chocolate or avocado body wraps, coffee exfoliations and the Mayan Temazcal, also known as the traditional Mexican Sweat Bath.

Aromatherapy is an integral part of the Spa Aqua experience. It begins by immersing guests into a state of relaxation upon entering the spa as essences of mint, spearmint, eucalyptus and lavender waft through the space.

The spirit of Spa Aqua’s barefoot luxury extends throughout the facility, imbuing the space with soul- nurturing intimacy.

Aqua Fitness Center

The waterfront Aqua Cancun gym features state-of-the-art exercise technology, including cardio equipment, workout stations and free weights. Personal training sessions are available as well as expertly instructed yoga and Tai Chi classes. The adjacent Kinesis Salon offers salon and beauty services integrating natural products with modern techniques.

The website is awesome--as you put your mouse on the page, water ripples---sooo inviting. Check out Spa Aqua and lure yourself to relax.

NKOTB--A Comeback!

2008-03-26T13:52:00.003-04:00

No, not a beauty review--but seriously The Budget Fashionista just sent a link out on Twitter about New Kids on the Block reuniting. I'm sure it may be old news to some of you since like January (or not) but all I can say is that the clips on their website just brought me back to age 14 and thinking I was going to start a girl band "The Girls Next Door" and tour with the boy band. (And then eventually marry Joey McIntyre and have kids and live happily ever after). Not to mention the memory of me waiting in line for 3 hours at Warwick Mall in Rhode Island just so that NKOTB's parents could give me their autograph. Their parents, how stupid was I? Even stupider--I got in the newspaper because they took off leaving hundreds of us without a penning. (I looked sad and dejected.)

I'm just sayin.

So who's with me front row when they tour? And shhhh this is just between us, I don't need the whole interweb knowing that I am a NKOTB groupie. www.nkotb.com

Review: Travertine Spa's Petal Body Cream

2008-03-22T20:56:00.003-04:00

If you can't go to the spa to get that softer than silk feeling on your skin, then bring the spa to you. Travertine Spa may be located in California, but here in the mountains of Pennsylvania I can create my own sanctuary and bathe my skin in softness with their Petal Body Cream.

Travertine Spa's Body Cream is made from Jojoba Oil, which minimizes water loss from the skin therefore keeping it perfectly hydrated. The fragrance is "Petal" and is a light floral scent that has a sweetness to it. Just saying that it is "floral" makes it sound plain, but from bottle to skin, the scent is diverse and is inherently pretty.

The Body Cream is non-greasy and quickly absorbs into your skin, leaving it perfectly quenched. It comes in a 4oz metal container with pump, but I would love to see this in a larger size (4oz. is just not enough when it is so fabulous!)

Why not treat your skin and get it ready to look gorgeous; shorts weather is just around the corner. Available online at Travertine Spa for $24.

Review: Freeze 24/7 Freeze & Go

2008-03-22T19:34:00.004-04:00

(Before Freeze & Go)

(After Freeze & Go)

I certainly don't enjoy showcasing my big ugly forehead to the world--but here it is in all its glory. I think nothing explains a product better than before and after pictures. These images are the results of using Freeze 24/7's newest product, Freeze & Go. No photoshopping, just actual diminished fine lines and wrinkles in a matter of 10 minutes.

While my wrinkles aren't gone forever, Freeze & Go plumps the skin to diminish their appearance and brightens it. I applied it over my makeup, so you can see what a difference it made just in the tone of my skin and in absorbing any excess oil. While the product is a cream, it is non-greasy and non-oily, so it can smooth over your makeup without disturbing it.

Freeze & Go is portable and the removeable mirror reveals the top for dispensing the cream. The bottom of the pod-like package twists to give you a set amount of product with each twist. I only needed to twist it twice to get what I needed for my forehead. The first few times you use it you will notice that your skin feels a slight tightening sensation. It only lasts a few minutes and then is no longer noticeable. However, week 2 into using Freeze & Go, I didn't even notice it anymore.

I'd say it works. Have you used it?

Goodbye Grandpa

2008-03-22T12:15:00.002-04:00

Ladies, my grandpa passed away yesterday morning. Although I am terribly sad--I know he is in heaven taking care of my unborn son Aiden that we lost 2 years ago. I would write a whole diatribe about how much I loved my grandfather, but I'm not sure my heart can take it at the moment.

Just wanted to let you know that product reviews will now resume as normal. (And believe me I have a backload at least 2 months long!)

Review: KLEAN Bath & Body Soaks & Body Polish

2008-03-17T22:11:00.004-04:00

It's been a while since I've gotten some products from KLEAN Bath & Body, but I could hardly pass up a chance to try out some of their new products, as well as their newest scent.

KLEAN Soaks: I chose KLEAN's Dead Sea Soak. The ingredients are very cut & dry--Dead Sea Salt, solar salt, dendric salt, coconut oil, lavender buds (because I chose lavender as my scent) & essential oil. When you open the bottle the lavender scent whisks you off to a place of relaxation. While strong in the bottle, I found it less so once it mixed in with the water. While it wasn't as strong as I would've liked it to be, the soak was still amazing for my skin. (A Milk Soak may be next for me!)

Ginger Tea Sugar Body Polish: Just as I fell in love with KLEAN's Blue Hawaii fragrance for their sugar scrub, I think it may be possible that I am head over heels for Ginger Tea. It is a warm scent that smells sweet in a relaxing and sultry sort of way. When you breathe in the fragrance you'll smell spiced tea. I've also loved their sugar polish since way back when, but pair it with an incredible fragrance and I am in heaven.

Now I also heard that their newest fragrance, Exhale, was amazing so I got it in a small Klean Mist. This is such a clean fragrance and will not disappoint! It is a fresh citrus bouquet of bergamot, grapefruit and orange; followed by notes of cornmint, fresh ozone; and a dry down of woods and sandalwood. Must.get.more.now!

Come see all KLEAN has to offer at www.kleanbathandbody.com.

*Photo Credit: KLEAN

Quick Update on my Lack of Posting

2008-03-15T22:14:00.003-04:00

Hey ladies,

I know there have been a lack of posts here and on Makeup Minute, so I just wanted to take a sec to let you know that my grandfather was moved to hospice last Monday and it won't be long before he passes. Many of you may remember when his brain surgery went wrong back in September and he ended up on life support. I had gone to Florida to say my goodbye's and we had decided we would take him off the support--yet much to our surprise-he came out of his coma the day I got there. Since then he has lived bedridden, unable to speak, paralyzed (except for one arm) and still on life support. A week ago on Sunday I had gotten the call that his heart rate went down into the 30's and the dr.'s indicated that it was the beginning of the end.

So I have been by his side now that he is up here in Pennsylvania--although about 2.5 hours from me. Depending on the weather here on Sunday (it is supposed to snow! Stop the insanity!), I may stay home and able to write a few reviews.

Anyway, please keep my grandfather in your prayers. :( My heart is breaking.

Glam Awards & Fabbies: Voting ends soon!

2008-03-13T21:18:00.006-04:00

If you could be so kind to vote for A Girl's Gotta Spa in the following two awards, I would be so grateful!

Glam Awards (voting ends April 10th)
(See voting button in the sidebar)

Fabbies (voting ends April 30th)

Review: Elizabeth Arden Mediterranean Breeze

2008-03-07T19:11:00.005-05:00

Sitting at a table at Olives in Manhattan, I was handed 3 white litmus type strips of paper. It was Fashion Week and I remember watching the rain come down in large drops hitting scurrying New Yorkers as they tried to hail a cab. The fragrance of fresh citrus and the softness of jasmine filled my senses and, for a brief moment, had me drift off into a daydream of fluffy white clouds, a pollution-free crystal blue sky and glistening waters...

Then I came back to my senses and realized I was just eating butternut tortelli (the best ever) and taking in the newest fragrance from Elizabeth Arden--Mediterranean Breeze.

Mediterranean Breeze:

Top notes: Pink grapefruit, white nectarine, bergamont
Middle notes: Jasmine, violet, sweet almond
Base notes: Cedarwood, sandalwood, musk

As my Elizabeth Arden contact dipped each paper separately into the notes, I remember thinking that all three would make for great fragrances. Then, as they came together, I remember thinking what an amazing way that was to take it in; allowing me to piece it all together through my senses. The pink grapefruit hits you first, making you feel like you literally just sliced into the juicy pink fruit and the musk give it almost an earthy, white sand between your toes gritty feeling.

I have a 1oz sample of it here as I write this and it makes me want to pop into my Born sandals, capri's and a short sleeve shirt and bathe in the sunlight, but just as Spring is still weeks away, Mediterranean Breeze only becomes available in April. I definitely recommend putting it on your "to buy" list.

Review: Otopia Babysoft

2008-03-06T20:53:00.003-05:00

Brody enjoying a bath with Otopia's Babysoft

Otopia's Babysoft is an organic hair & body wash gentle enough for little skin (and toes, fingers-even belly buttons). The scent is that traditional "all natural" fragrance that most organics seem to come by, but a little more subdued and left Brody smelling clean and..delicious (he probably got a few extra tickles, snuggles and kisses from mom after each bath). Otopia's Babysoft is tear-free and left Brody's hair soft, as well as his skin.

Otopia has a complete line of certified organic baby products, as well as products for moms too. All Otopia products are available at Target.

Review: Solessence SheaShea*XieXie Intense Unrefined Shea Butter

2008-03-03T15:44:00.001-05:00

We're all aware of my love affair with Solessence's Cream de la Coconut Sugar Scrub, but to experience that and their Intense Unrefined Shea Butter (also in coconut)? My skin is in silky smooth heaven. These ridiculous winters in Northeast PA will drive anyone's skin mad (8 inches of snow one day---50 degrees the next, global warming anyone?), so I like to keep my more intensely moisturizing products handy until Spring decides to make its grand entrance into my world...and in the Poconos that sometimes happens in May.

SheaShea and XieXie are actually said the same way (Shea). Solessence's shea butter has double the shea; one in liquid form mixed with pure shea butter. And let me tell you--the consistency is exactly like butter. It is very thick and almost like a paste as you scoop it in your fingers, but as soon as it is applied to your skin, the warmth of your body heat softens it and it spreads quite easily.

I absolutely love this coconut scent. Staring outside at the dreary whiteness of snow covered everything--I feel like I am laying on the white sands of Sanibel Island taking in the warmth of the sun (oh to be 19 again and relive that vacation!) When I need to lift my spirits, the scent of this shea butter always seems to do the trick.

Try it out yourself (and the sugar scrub too!) at Solessence.com

Pantene Beautiful Lengths

2008-03-02T21:47:00.001-05:00

I love this video. It makes me cry every time. How about you?

Beauty Giveaway Winner is...

2008-02-29T08:58:00.002-05:00

With 74% of the vote, the winner is Julie! Congratulations Julie!

Thank you to the other finalists and everyone who sent in entries! Be sure to stay tuned for more giveaways coming soon!

Review: Shea Terra Organic's

2008-02-28T21:14:00.005-05:00

Guest post from Jessica of Sofachip.com

Routinely taking care of your skin now will help it look better in 20 years. I don't know about you, but the idea of Botox injections is not one I look upon fondly. So, let's avoid it! Let's have skin that would make Karen Walker (from Will & Grace) jealous. And since we can, let's do it for much less money, and through supporting the efforts of a company that helps people in Africa. I am pleased to share with you information and first hand experience with products from the Shea Terra Organic's line.

With a decade of research utilized, and much higher quantities of shea butter than you typically find in shea butter products, these are the haute couture of shea butters. The natural indigenous ingredients used in these products include aloe ferox, bush mango, African potato, and honeybush. These ingredients aid skin in repairing, softening, and encouraging cell renewal while breaking down the dead cells.

This is what I tried:

Indigenous Silk & Shea Butter Shower Elixir - This gives a fresh feeling, and I felt healthier using a product made with goats milk as opposed to chemicals.

Indigenous Shea Body Butter - This is ultra healing. I used this on the dry patches I have on my skin, and I swear I could hear my skin sighing in relief. I put this on my feet at night, and then put cotton socks over them. In the morning my feet felt incredibly silky.

Indigenous Silk & Shea Butter Lotion - It's creamy and smells great. You can layer this on after using the shower elixir to make a scent even longer-lasting.

Indigenous Silk & Shea Butter Dead Sea Salt Scrub - There is no oil floating on the top of these scrubs. The inside looks plump, and nothing goes to waste.

In short, I highly recommend all of these products. Whether you want to feel great for a Saturday afternoon of organizing photos (I'd have fun doing that - don't mock), or a Saturday night out on the town to have a drink (a Bellini, please) - you will enjoy using something from the Shea Terra Organic's line.

I was able to try each of the above products in a different scent, which I also want to describe for you:

Miombo Mango - This was my favorite scent. It seems like everyone complimented me on how great I smelled when I wore this. Real mango extract is used, as opposed to essential oils.

Lavender of the Khosian - This isn't a typical lavender scent. It smelled earthy but pretty.

Pink Guava Pomegranate - This smells sweet, but not cloyingly so. I really enjoyed this scent. Later knowing that the pomegranate has ellagic tannin that boosts collagen and firms and smooths cellulite - I knew this was special and women of all ages would appreciate the benefits it offers.

Vanilla Bourbon - Not what I expected from a vanilla scent. The vanilla is still sweet, but it has a deeper fragrance.

Much like women with a new engagement ring tend to do, I couldn't stop holding out my hand and looking down with admiration. The shea butter lotion and body butter made my nails look amazingly healthy and gleam.

The company is committed to giving back. The Shea Terra Organic's product lines each support unique empowerment programs in Africa. The materials used are all sustainable and help preserve the resources of Africa.

I'm highly impressed. Look for their Black Soap Elixir's which are made from organic black soap that helps with skin problems (from acne to sun damage). They also have exceptional chocolates. Buy them! I was able to try the dark chocolate, which I shared with my Dad. He literally said, "This is the best dark chocolate I've ever had."

You can purchase the products at Nordstrom or from their website: www.sheaterraorganics.com

Beauty Giveaway Entries--Your Time to Vote!

2008-02-25T21:04:00.003-05:00

Here are the top 3 entries for the Beauty Giveaway--cast your vote for the winner!

Voting ends February 28th at midnight! (Voting Closed)

Entry #1 from Julie:

One of my best friends, Jeannette, asked me to do her wedding makeup. I was so honored -- and really excited and scared. I wanted to make sure her makeup was perfect! I used UDPP on her eyes, Lancome waterproof mascara, and various golden-toned MAC eye shadows. I finished with Lancome Juicy tube on her lips with a subtle Lancome lip liner. She was gorgeous -- even the wedding photographer commented on how radiant she looked.

The wedding was outdoors in late August. It was a gorgeous sunny day, but really, really hot. Jeannette and her husband had a traditional Mexica (pronounced me-shee-ka) ceremony, which meant that the ceremony itself was followed by about an hour of really intense Aztec dancing. I was well-prepared and had my makeup bag ready, because I was certain that afterwards, she would need a touchup or potentially even a complete re-do of her makeup.

They were about 30 minutes into their dancing, when it started POURING out of nowhere! It took everyone by surprise -- big, fat, heavy late-summer thunderstorm drops. True to tradition, Jeannette and her dancers kept dancing for another hour (!!), even though they were soaked through and through.

Here's the best part -- when they finally stopped dancing, I got my makeup stuff together, and after seeing how all the other dancers' mascara had streaked down their cheeks from the rain, I expected the worst. But when Jeannette walked up, her makeup was still flawless! I swear! Her hair was dripping wet, her wedding dress was soaked, but her face still looked radiant, and her eyeliner, shadow, and mascara were still perfect. All she needed was lip gloss.

Jeannette's wedding was absolutely gorgeous. Her photos were fabulous. And I thought to myself, "Sweet Jesus. I am a makeup goddess."

Entry #2 from Trudi:

The story I'm about to describe was one of the most humiliating instances of my life and because of it I've started using only powder foundation. I was on a blind date with this guy at a fancy restaurant (btw, my friend hooked us up). Somewhere in between I decided to go adjust my makeup in the bathroom. Wrong idea. The first thing I did was take out my foundation, which was liquid by the way, and uncap it. My hand accidentally slipped, sending the cap straight to the floor. I bent down to pick up the cap and right at that moment I happened to simultaneously knock over my foundation. When I got up, cap in hand, I was shocked to see a huge brown stain on the back of my once entirely white dress. It was from the spilled liquid foundation. I tried washing it out, but that wouldn't work. In fact, it only made it look worse.

By the time I was done trying to rub out the stain about ten minutes had passed since I entered the bathroom. Then, I suddenly realized that if I stepped outside everyone would think I did a number 2 on myself because of the humongous brown stain and long amount of time I spent in the bathroom. I decided to spare myself the embarrassment, so I climbed out the bathroom window. Thankfully, no one was outside the restaurant to see my "stained" dress. The worst parts of this experience were that my date was totally hot (I never got to see him again) and that I was wearing the dress that belonged to my friend that hooked us up on the date. When I got home, I was given the task of explaining what happened to the dress to her. I ended up paying for it. Ouch. Now you can understand why I've eliminated liquid foundation from my makeup bag. This has saved me from a great deal of bad luck on dates!

Entry #3 from Ash:

When I was a kid, I wasn't popular... at all, really. I was teased, had things thrown at me, was beaten up, called names - I was so depressed that every time my mom would open my bedroom door, she'd sigh a relief that I hadn't killed myself. It was a very, very, very dark time in my life.

One day, I was cleaning out her side-table looking for the calculator, and I found a Sephora catalog. What's this? The makeup's so bright, and pretty, and colorful, and all over the place! I know it sounds ridiculous, but, it gave me a little spark of hope.

So, on my mother's next trip to Sephora, I tagged along. I was maybe 13 at this point, and the only makeup I wore was nail polish and lipbalm. I started playing with Urban Decay, because their nailpolishes seemed so unique and funky.

Eventually, I was pulled out of public school because I couldn't mentally take it anymore. However, I did start accumulating a large collection of high-end beauty products. To this day, it's therapeudic for me.

Whenever my stepdad's drinking gets out of hand and he starts calling me names, I go online and buy something. Soap or scrubs from Villainess.net, perfume, eyeliner, eyeshadow, lipgloss, face stuff from MyChelle.. Anything, really. My boyfriend only noticed how big of an impact this stuff had on me when we were in a department store and I was bouncing around like a kid in a candy store when we got near the makeup department. Before, he hadn't thought much of the insane numbers of bottles, tubes, jars, and tubs around me at all times.

So, basically, regardless of what some people think of beauty products, it saves my sanity every time I need it to - and that is why I love it.

Beauty Contests!!

2008-02-24T12:23:00.001-05:00

Don't forget to get your entry in for the Beauty Giveaway that ends tomorrow 2/25!

Also, I am giving away many products from MAC's Fafi collection! Check out Makeup Minute to see what you need to do to win it!

Victoria's Secret Beauty: Red Carpet Ready Hair

2008-02-22T18:22:00.005-05:00

As Heidi Klum and others get ready to walk to red carpet this weekend, I was able to ask Victoria's Secret's hair stylist Helena Faccenda the secret to sexy hair.

Shannon: Which hair products do you find work best to keep your hair polished and manageable, but still hold up to the elements (wind, etc.) when walking the red carpet?

Helena Faccenda: I love to start with a styling cream as the foundation for a red carpet hair style. Styling creams like the So Sexy Styling Cream add a little depth to the hair so you can mold it into shape, but they keep hair soft, shiny, and polished.

And honestly, doesn't Heidi Klum's hair look amazing? From what I hear she'll be wearing a red John Galliano gown down the red carpet to raise awareness for women's heart health. The gown will later be given away on the website mycokerewards.com.

Gavin's Story: TheraBreath Helped My Bad Breath

2008-02-21T19:50:00.004-05:00

I don't know how many of you are parents or suffer yourself from "breath issues," but it is heartbreaking when your (almost) 9 year old son comes to you deeply saddened because the kids at school are making fun of him because he has bad breath. Unfortunately, Gavin has always had sinus, adenoid, etc. issues that have wreaked havoc on his breath. Frustrated, Gavin asked me why kids at school were calling him, "onion breath" when he brushes his teeth several times a day. He was on the verge of tears, so I put an email into my co-worker at Pierce Mattie and asked for the help of Dr. Katz, owner of TheraBreath.

Dr. Katz sent Gavin his toothpaste, mouthwash, gum, ZOX mints, tongue cleaner, oral spray and sinus & nasal spray (which he has all been using religiously). He also sent his Bad Breath Bible, which honestly, really had a lot of information that is helpful going forward for helping Gavin. I see the difference in Gavin not only in his breath of course, but his attitude and new sense of self esteem. I want Gavin to do this review himself, so please continue reading.

--My name is Gavin and I'll be 9 in April. On the bus ride to school everyday, the kid who sits next to me would make fun of me and tell me that my breath smelled bad. It really hurt my feelings a lot because I brush my teeth everyday. Then on the bus ride home a different kid would always call me onion breath and all the other kids would laugh. It made me not want to talk to anyone because I was afraid I would be made fun of. I told my mom and at first she tried to give me Listerine because it says it kills bad breath germs, but all I had to do was smell it and I knew I didn't want it in my mouth. So my mom asked Dr. Katz for help. I was nervous at first because I was afraid it was going to smell bad or taste bad like the Listerine.

The toothpaste is a clear gel that doesn't have any smell to it and only has a little bit of a minty taste, but not a lot like regular toothpaste. I was really happy with the mouthwash because it didn't sting or smell bad, it's hard to say what it tastes like--but as a kid I can tell you it tastes good. I was afraid to try the Oral Spray because you have to spray it towards the back of your throat, but my mom convinced me to try it once and I liked it. After trying the toothpaste, mouthwash and Oral Spray, I knew not to be afraid of taste or smell for the rest of the TheraBreath products because I knew they would be good.

Ever since I have been using Dr. Katz's TheraBreath products the kids at school haven't made fun of me anymore. I feel a lot better because it makes me sad when kids say mean things to me. I think all kids and adults should try these products because they really work and I am so happy that Dr. Katz invented them. I now tell everyone I know all about Dr. Katz and TheraBreath so that maybe his products can help someone else. Thank you Dr. Katz for helping me!

TheraBreath is available at www.therabreath.com

Lancome Video

2008-02-19T21:48:00.002-05:00

My big video debut is here! I'd love for you to check it out on Makeup Minute: Lancome Boutique--Intro to L.U.C.I. Video

Beauty Giveaway! Win a plethora of beauty goodies!

2008-02-18T11:42:00.009-05:00

Friends, I have so many beauty products here that I don't know what to do with them. Rather than have them sit on my shelf and collect dust, I'd love to give them away. It's been a while since I had a contest, so don't you think we're about due for another one?

"Shannon's I have too much stuff I have to give it away beauty contest":

1-Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules
1-Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream
1-Elizabeth Arden Mediterranean eau de parfum 1.7oz
1-Roxy Shower Gel
1-Pattern Body Wash in Citrus
1-ABBA Pure Pomade
1-Berwick Beauty Eye Contour Gel
1-CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (travel size 1oz)
1-MAC Cosmetics Finery in Plum Lips
1-CoverGirl Outlast in Ever Red-dy Talon Rouge
1-CoverGirl TruBlend Foundation 1-Natural Ivory
1-Beth Bender Get in Line
1-Borghese Protective Moisturizer SPF 15 (travel size 1oz)
1-Billy B Beauty Eyelash Curler
1- Prescriptives Colorscope Lip Color in Rouge Social (Cream B/R)
1-Max Factor Lip Gloss in Too Much Wine
1-Timelapse Wand
1-Lancome Color Ideal Hydra Compact
1-Lancome Color Fever Plumper in Curvy
1-Lancome High Definicils

Let me be up front and tell you that I am too darn lazy to go searching for the retail cost of each product to tell you how much this giveaway is worth! But I can estimate it to be worth a few hundred dollars.

So what do you have to do to win this plethora of goodies? For one you have to live in the U.S. and second you have to send me your best beauty story--something funny, something touching, as long as it involves beauty products--send it in! Now I won't be picking the winner, but I will post the top 3 and then turn the voting over to all of my readers to choose the winner.

Contest submission dates: February 18th-25th Winner announced on February 29th.
Submit to: contest at agirlsgottaspa dot com

*All products are brand new. Mediterranean does not have the plastic wrapper, but is brand new.

Redken: Levels of Hair Color

2008-02-16T16:00:00.004-05:00

In previous years, I always used to go to a colorist to get that gray banished from my hair. Since having children and lack of time, I tend to DIM (do it myself), so it's been a while and I'm a little out of the loop on professional color.

Redken is best known for its innovative haircare and styling products. What you may not know is that nearly 50% of Redken’s business results from professional haircolor. With this high demand for Redken professional haircolor, there is a huge opportunity to understand the benefits of professional haircolor. Whether you're looking for a fashionable new look or want to take a few years off by blending away gray, Redken haircolor products, along with your colorist's expertise, will get you the results you desire and will develop your custom color formulation following your color consultation.

Redken haircolor options include the latest fashion trends – from deep brunettes and fiery reds to cool blondes. If you're gravitating toward a highly stylized look, consult with your colorist to see how to best adapt the fantasy of the runway to your individual needs. Or you may choose to add depth and dimension to your natural haircolor with highlights or lowlights. Redken haircolor is divided into three categories – demi-permanent haircolor, permanent haircolor, and lighteners.

Demi-permanent Haircolor

Demi-permanent haircolor falls between permanent and semi-permanent haircolor, and lasts between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how frequently you wash your hair.

Shades EQ Equalizing Conditioning Color Gloss

This year, Redken celebrates 20 amazing years of haircolor with Shades EQ, originally introduced as the haircolor that thinks it’s a conditioner. As the #1 long-lasting, no-lift, non-ammonia, demi-permanent haircolor in the U.S., Shades EQ has won BehingTheChair.com's Stylist Choice Award for the past seven years, and is one of the most versatile haircolor brands colorists can use – it provides healthy, shiny results, incredible conditioning with an amazing number of mixing possibilities. Shades EQ is used as a glaze, color refresher, and also color correction. Ingredients include acidic pH; no lift, non-ammonia formula; long-lasting colorants; wheat amino acids; and silicone.

Redken For Men Color Camo 10-Minute Camouflage Color

Redken For Men’s Color Camo 10-Minute Camouflage Color is a better way to fight gray, in just 10 minutes. The non-ammonia formula takes gray "undercover" as much or as little as he likes, brings out "pepper" in salt and pepper hair, ensures natural-looking, low-maintenance results and rejuvenates hair with more strength and shine. Applied at the shampoo bowl, it's a quick, discreet service, providing natural-looking results.

Permanent Haircolor (the one I normally go with)

Permanent haircolor typically lasts 3-4 months and uses dye molecules that interact with your hair's natural pigment to create a final haircolor. Permanent color won't rinse or wash out.

Shimmer One 20-Minute Shine-Infusing Color Cream

Shimmer One, Redken's ammonia-free one level lift permanent color cream gives you luminous color results in just 20 minutes. Exclusive Tri-Light Technology delivers soft, radiant haircolor in 26 shades (plus clear), locks in moisture and protection, and infuses hair with a shine so strong, it shimmers.

Color Fusion Advanced Performance Color Cream

Color Fusion is a modern, permanent color cream that delivers healthy-looking, multi-dimensional haircolor. With over 100 shades in six categories, it can be used to lighten, darken, match natural haircolor, cover gray or to create high fashion techniques. Redken's specialized Colorbond Technology heightens its signature multi-dimensional color with optimum durability, condition, and shine. Ingredients include high tenacity dyes, ceramide, cationic conditioners, and coconut oil.

Color Gels Permanent Conditioning Haircolor

Color Gels is a reliable and dynamic haircolor brand for any shade of pigmented hair and is used to brighten, darken, change or correct, or for highlighting and creative color effects. Color Gels provides exceptional gray coverage, from a few strands to high percentages of gray. Ingredients include Redken’s Select Dye System containing 100% oxidative, UV-stable, long-lasting dyes for holding power and resistance to fading.

Lighteners

Lightening (also called bleaching or decolorizing) is the process of lightening hair – creating just a few highlights, lightening selected sections of the hair, or applying to the whole head. Whether you want to illuminate just a few strands, or go from brunette to blonde, lightening requires expertise and the right products.

Blonde Icing Conditioning Cream Lightener

Experience a luxurious salon lightening treatment. The lush cream formula intensely silkens, luminizes and lifts hair to the palest shades of blonde. Ingredients include Exclusive Lumisilk Technology, Ceramide, and Cire-Gloss combined with White Beezwax and a palm oil derivative to seal in moisture, leaving hair luminous and radiant.

I hope this breakdown in color was helpful. To locate a Redken Certified Haircolorist in your area, visit www.redkencolor.com.