beauty in real life...

scents i'm loving...

2009-11-24T13:30:00.001-05:00

In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon ($34)

The bottle just screams display me don't you think?
What has me going is how long the scent lasts and how fabulous it smells.
Totally not overpowering at all.
I'm not a perfume expert, but I can definitely catch the gorgeous florals and the warmth from the amber woods.
Makes this just about right for fall and winter.

Kenzo Power Cologne ($68)

All I can say is holy cats my husband smells AMAZING when he wears this.
It's just the perfect scent for a man.
Not too strong. Not too light.
Just perfect.
What you want your guy to smell like.
A woody citrus-it contains notes like verbena, bergamot, cardamom and even black pepper too.
Whatever it is, it equals hubba-hubba.
Seriously.

Burberry The Beat Eau de Parfum ($49.19 at fragrancenet.com)

This is one of those pow kinda scents that really gets you right off the bat.
Definitely not for the faint of heart.
This is for the person who wants to be noticed.
But in a majorly fab way.
It's considered a woody floral with notes of bergamot, cardamom, pink pepper, mandarin, ceylon tea, iris, white musk, vetiver, and cedar.
I noticed the pepper and musk immediately.
So a little dab did it for me.
Great for the nubby knits of winter.

editor's note: samples of all were provided for by the respective representative for each brand.

lancome friends and family discount

2009-11-24T11:17:00.000-05:00

Honestly...now you have no excuse to get a head start on your shopping.

Use it at lancome-usa.com.

kiehl's friends and family discount

2009-11-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Just a little something to get you started on your holiday shopping.

You'll thank me later.

sally hershberger on hsn

2009-11-23T23:27:00.002-05:00

Tune in to HSN and hsn.com to see Sally Hershberger in all her hair fantasticalness.

Hey...give me a break.

It's almost 11:30pm, I'm getting a little punchy here, and I can make up words if I want to.

Make sure you check her out on HSN November 24, 2009 at 8am, 11am, 3pm and 8pm EST.

She'll be featuring a ton of products including her latest addition, Luxe Layers Protective Blow Out Gel ($18)...an HSN exclusive.

Hershberger's hair care line is one of the few that I've been really really curious to try, but have yet to make the time to check it out.

I'm curious to hear from you guys.

Have you ever tried it?

giveaway with functionalab!

2009-11-23T15:46:00.001-05:00

Ugh...what another dreary, cold and rainy day here in Virginia.

Blah.

In case you're feeling the major blahs right now...like me...here's a little something to pick you up.

A really cool giveaway!

Here's what's up for grabs...

Health  Drops  from  Functionalab  are  concentrated,  water‐soluble  supplement  drops formulated  for  quick  absorption  into  the  body. 

There are four different types of drops and each serves a unique purpose...

• Focus 
Helps  maintain  the  normal  brain  functions  that  lead  to  mental  alertness,  clarity  and 
memory

• Immune
Helps  support  the  body’s  natural  immune  system. 

• Detox
A  collection  of  phyto nutrients that  help  support  the  body’s  natural  detoxification  systems. 

• Antiox
Delivers the polyphenol content equivalent to 15 cups of green tea per serving. 

A more comprehensive description of each, as well as images of the bottles can be seen here.

You can buy them at Henri Bendel and online at functionalab.com.

Okay...moving on to the fun stuff.

One winner will receive a 60 day supply health drops and you'll get your choice of the four types available!

How's that for fab?

Here's the part though where you really really have to pay attention. This giveaway is going to be a little bit different than the others...this time you need to do a little bit of work.

First you need to become a fan of Functionalab on Facebook. It's quick and easy and you can do it by clicking here.

Then you have to come back to Beauty in Real Life and leave a comment for this post. Just tell me what drops you're a "fan" of by Functionalab and leave me your name.

So, basically, it'll look like this...

I'm a fan of the Immune drops by Functionalab!

Harriet

That's it!

A little bit of clicking for a truly great prize!

You have from now until Thursday, December 3rd to become a fan of Functionalab and to come back here and tell me what drops you are a fan of. I will randomly select one winner December 3rd at 11pm EST. The winners will be announced the next day, Friday, December 4th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until December 3rd at 11:00 PM EST to enter..so get to work!

*Please Read This: If you fail to become a fan of Functionalab and include and all information requested, I will disqualify your entry. One winner, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Funtionalab. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm EST on Thursday, December 3rd.

because it's not just about beauty...

2009-11-21T16:21:00.003-05:00

It's all about the food in my house.

That's due to my Italian heritage and the fact that I love to cook.

The only issue I ever have though, involves my son....little l.

He has got to be the world's most pickiest eater.

Seriously.

Getting him to eat a veggie is like trying to get me to not eat a whole pint of Haagen-Dazs in one sitting...impossible.

Well, when this popped up into my inbox, all I could think of was genius and does this rep know me or something?

I am going to keep the writing in its entirety so you can see where I'm going here...

Having trouble getting your kids to eat certain foods? Need kid-friendly recipes for the holidays? Annabel Karmel has your back!

I mean...really...is there a hidden camera in my house?

Annabel Karmel, a mother of three, is an international bestselling author of 15 books on nutrition and cooking for babies and toddlers, as well as a familiar face on British television. She has appeared on tons of TV programs, including the Today Show, The CBS Early Show and The View.

Annabel offers hundreds of new and easy recipes for specific age groups and her books are the perfect guide for parents who want to help their young ones down the road to a healthy and nutritious lifestyle.

Uh...yes...me please. Little l's nutrition tends to consist of cereal, chicken fingers, pb and j, and the occasional random hidden veggie. Oh and those chewable Flintstone vitamins...he's all about them.

All kids love anything with marshmallows (honestly that is so true...little l could eat a whole bag if given the chance), so spice up Turkey Day this year with Fluffy Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes.

If you’re picky eater won’t touch turkey (he's actually not too bad with any poultry...but these would be awesome for another dinner or lunch some other time), try these cool Chicken Dippers.

Both recipies were taken from the book The Complete Party Planner by Annabel Karmel.

Honestly?

I AM BUYING THIS BOOK TOMORROW!!!!!!!

I even found it online for under $12 at amazon.com. Click here to take you there.

Also, be sure to check out Annabel’s website (annabelkarmel.com) for more info and some other fun recipes.

editor's note: i did not receive a copy of this book for review...just the email from a rep with the attached recipes. but i totally want the book and will be getting it. trust me on that.

elizabeth grant beautiful colors finishing touch

2009-11-20T10:33:00.000-05:00

To say that this has become my new favorite product is an understatement.

It's a makeup primer, but that's just the beginning.

Using it underneath my foundation, it manages to make everything last longer and imparts a delicious glow to my skin.

I also use less product.

The fact of which totally works for me and (retrospectively) Big L who finances most of my beauty purchases.

Okay...all. Sheesh.

As with most of EG's products, this also contains Torricelumn™ a fabulous moisturizing compound....so it makes my skin feel hydrated too.

If that's not enough for you, check this out, it's said to be a favorite of Jessica Biel. Tell me her skin doesn't always look divine.

Find yours at elizabethgrant.com.

hair tips and tricks from the butterfly studio salon

2009-11-19T16:14:00.000-05:00

Ever wish you could have a fabulous stylist on call that could give you the tips and tricks that can make your mane look fab?

Well, that's why I'm here honey.

The amazing stylists over at NYC's Butterfly Studio Salon have decided to share some of their hair wisdom with you...tips you could definitely use to get you through the cold months ahead.

So without further delay here you go!

Brushing your hair 100 times a day will not make your hair grow faster, it simply stimulates the scalp but it will cause breakage. To help your hair grow faster, simply massage the scalp for five minutes at a time. This will also stimulate the blood flow and will NOT cause breakage –Kattia Solano

First, apply a volumizing product on damp hair. Then flip your hair over and dry it upside down, which is the key to creating volume at the roots. At first, it will look a bit out of control, but you can set the hair with Velcro rollers or smooth out with a curling iron. If you use a roller set, blow dry with heat for a few minutes and then finish with cool air. Remove rollers and brush or run your fingers through hair. If you use a curling iron, then you can set the curls in place by spraying 2 inch sections with hairspray and curling. –Kattia Solano

If you have hairspray buildup: first shampoo hair then create a paste with baking soda and water. Work the paste into hair, comb through and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse and condition for optimum results. - Nicole Descoteaux

If you have oily buildup: add a 1/2 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid, such as Palmolive or Dawn, to your shampoo. - Dana Vuljevic

You're welcome!

To make an appointment, or to find out more about the salon, visit butterflystudiosalon.com.

nail color du jour...perfect formula pink gel coat

2009-11-19T13:25:00.001-05:00

Actually this should be titled "What's Been on my Nails for the Last Couple of Weeks" if we really want to get technical here.

I've been wearing Perfect Formula Pink Gel Coat ($29) for the past two weeks and I'm totally impressed. It brightens my nails, shines them up like crazy, and makes them feel insanely tougher then they've been recently.

Hence the longer length.

The gorgeous little sheer pink tint it delivers had me at hello.

You can wear it alone, or under and on top of your regular color.

It's a definite splurge, but worth it in my opinion.

Find it at qvc.com and perfectformulas.com.

editor's note: this review includes a product provided to me by a rep from the company. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

beauty buy of the week...lorac smoky eye collection

2009-11-19T08:37:00.002-05:00

QVC is just the way to get your makeup fix these days.

Where else can you find such a crazy assortment of beauty delights, have them shipped to you, and have a 30 day money back guarantee?

This new collection from LORAC is exclusive to QVC.com.

Packed with essentials including 3 Eye Shadows in just the right shades (Dream, Joy and Beige), Front of the Line Liquid Liner, Special Effects Mascara and 3 Brushes for mistake-proof application, this set has all you need to create that coveted smoky eye look that Carol loves to create on her A-list celeb clients.

All packed inside this fab Croc Case.

The price is even more fabulous...$32.50.

Pretty much a no-brainer if you ask me.

what i'm loving now...

2009-11-18T09:30:00.004-05:00

La Mer the Radiant Concealer SPF 25 ($65)

Yes, it's a tad on the splurge-y side, but boy does it work.
It conceals under eye circles like a dream and does not crease...a problem with most.
Comes in a sweet white leather pouch and has it's own brush, so that just ups the luxury factor by ten.
Love it for the way it makes me look as if I actually got the required eight hours of sleep.

Clinique Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream ($17.50)

What you need in your bag, on your bedside table, and in your medicine cabinet.
A rich cream that instantly moisturizes your hands and softens your cuticles.
Lasts through washings, yet absorbs quickly.
Positively perfect for the cold and colder months ahead.

Bobbi Brown Extreme Party Mascara ($22)

The last "extreme party" I went to took place in the nineties and involved a heavily liquer-marinated watermelon.
I'm pretty sure it also involved a really interesting game of quarters...but I digress.
What makes this product so phenomenal is that fact that you can apply, reapply, and then apply again without it getting all caked up and gross looking.
The most amazing thing?
Throughout it all, my lashes stayed flexible and soft with out-to-there length and volume.
Loves it.

and finally...

Three Carats Limited-Edition Mini Cheek Stain Set ($25)

I'm just gonna state the obvious and say how RIDICULOUSLY adorable these three minis are.

And the added little bling?

Too fun.

All contain the same antioxidants like their larger counterparts, their compact size giving them that use-me-and-then-pop-me-into-your-bag-to-apply-as-needed-honey vibe.

The trio of hues?

- Brilliant...shimmering champagne

- Princess...shimmering rose

- Cushion...shimmering deep apricot

I love Cushion for the great color pop it imparts and Brilliant as a highlighter. Princess works great for when I'm feeling a pinky cheek.

Would these not make a fabulous stocking stuffer for your bestie?

Just a thought.

editor's note: this review includes a products provided to me by reps from the respective companies. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

hercut

2009-11-17T09:30:00.003-05:00

Choosing products based on your haircut?

Ridiculous, you might say.

Do they work?

Most definitely.

All you have to do is choose your Shampoo (normal to oily, normal to dry, dry) and Conditioner (light, medium, deep), then it's a matter of choosing your haircut type for your styling aid...called Catalyst:

The Bob

Long Layers

The Shag

The Blunt

The Pixie

Pretty much every style is based on one of these five, so you can easily choose the one that works.

Because my hair is chin length...as you can see in my brand spankin new photo under the "About Me" section...I tried The Bob Catalyst ($28) along with the Normal to Oily Shampoo ($22) and Light Conditioner ($22).

They all worked together like the perfect team.

The shampoo and conditioner left my hair clean and hydrated. Plus the intoxicatingly clean scent that remained after rinsing, lasted throughout the day. Every time my hair would swish around by my nose, I'd catch a whiff.

The Bob Catalyst uses something called a tumbling polymer, that's actually designed to give your hair forward flowing movement.

The unique combo of the cream and the clear gel-like product (in one pump-topped bottle) worked wonders to leave my hair straighter and not static-y. It also made for a totally easy blow dry that lasted throughout the day.

Lurve that.

Find yours at hercut.com.

editor's note: this review includes a product provided to me by a rep from the company. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

cold weather skin care tips

2009-11-16T09:30:00.002-05:00

Here's some skin care transitioning tips for you, courtesy of Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Debra Luftman and Dove AP/Deodorant.

Enjoy!

· Golden Rule. Just because summer is over, doesn’t mean applying SPF should end too. My cardinal rule is that sun block should be applied every day, not just when you are headed to the beach. Keep SPF next to your toothpaste so you remember to apply after brushing or switch to a moisturizer that contains UVA or UVB protection. This level of protection is important because many all-day moisturizers advertise SPF protection, but one in five offers little protection from harmful UVA rays and break down well before the day's end, leaving your skin unprotected.

· Half Dry. When the air conditioner turns off and the radiators turn on your skin will notice. This will cause its water content to condense and then evaporate, ultimately drying skin out. To help combat dryness, try this trick once you get out of the shower – don’t completely dry off. Leave some water on your skin and then apply moisturizer. The moisturizer binds the water and allows more water to be absorbed, keeping skin moisturized. Also, try not to use hot water, instead wash with lukewarm water. Hot water draws water out of your skin that is in place to keep it moisturized.

· Lip Trifecta. Once the temperature drops, so can the moisturization in your lips. To help prevent dry and cracked lips, look for a lip balm that targets dryness in three ways with antioxidants, SPF, and moisturizers. All three ingredients will work to exfoliate and moisturize lips. I always recommend a product like NeoStrata Lip Conditioner SPF 15 which has alpha and beta hydroxyl moisturizers and vitamins to help take off the dead, dry skin that causes chapped lips.

· Food for thought. Fall foods like apples, pumpkins and squash all provide Vitamin C, which is highly beneficial for skin. It decreases the appearance of wrinkles, provides daily fiber which prevents skin inflammation, and is a potent antioxidant. Also, the skin of an apple contains powerful antioxidants – it alone provides two to six times the antioxidant activity than the apple flesh alone.

And finally...

· Strength and Beauty. Fall and winter wardrobes usually mean thicker fabrics and layers which can mean heavy sweating as temperatures change from outdoor to indoor. To help fight sweat, I suggest my patients apply a clinical strength deodorant like Dove Clinical Protection Visibly Smooth before bed. Research shows that your circadian rhythm is lower at night. As a result, the body’s sweating mechanism slows down allowing skin to be more receptive to absorbing Dove Clinical Protection and giving it time to build a strong level of 24-hour wetness and odor protection while keeping you stubble free for longer.

found...the perfect black flat...bp. revel flat

2009-11-15T09:30:00.001-05:00

It took me a while to find the perfect flat shoe.

Why?

Well, one of the reasons is my foot is a tad on the large side...that's mainly due to some seriously flat feet (don't get jealous now).

The other is that they're narrow as all get out (you're positively green with envy...right?).

So that basically means that my foot tends to look friggin GINORMOUS in anything I tend to try on.

These, though, are spot on.

I actually bought these in pewter...the one they had in black was a tad gluey in spots...and will be getting these in black asap.

They feel comfy on and fit like a dream, due to the elastic on the sides of the shoe...this causes the shoe to not sit flat, it does that funky curvy thingy when they're not on.

I should note that they tend to run about a 1/2 a size small, so try your true size and 1/2 size up just to be sure.

The flats work with my wardrobe staple (jeans) and would definitely hit the mark with dressy work pants as well.

Plus they're under $60 ($59.95 to be exact) so your wallet will thank you.

Find yours at nordstrom.com.

limited edition creme de corps holiday collection

2009-11-14T09:30:00.006-05:00

As if the cream itself isn't amazing enough, Kiehl's has teamed up with renowned New York Artist KAWS to design a colorful graphic label for the holiday season.

Loving the hands and the primary bursts of color.

100% of the net profits from each bottle sold...in the US...will support RxArt (a non-profit national organization, committed to fostering artistic expression and awareness through the challenging, yet rewarding task of engaging young patients through contemporary art in pediatric hospitals).

If that doesn't make you want to go out right now and grab a bottle, try this on for size...the original Creme de Corps body cream is enriched with skin-nurturing ingredients such as Jojoba Butter, Shea Butter, and Sweet Almond Oil.

In a nutshell it's a gorgeously rich skin cream that can hydrate even my wintery-dry skin.

A bottle will always find a home on my dresser.

There also isn't any real scent going on either, so guys and girls can both enjoy the benefits. I've totally got Big L hooked too!

Grab a bottle today for only $26.50 (8.4 oz), $44.50 (16.9 oz. w/ Pump) and $70.00 (1 liter).

Find yours at kiehls.com.

and the winner of the maybelline prize pack is...

2009-11-13T18:24:00.002-05:00

I am so on tonight because I am ready to announce the winner of the Maybelline prize pack!

And it's not even Saturday, as per my usual timing.

How's that for fabulous?

Anywho, the winner of the Maybelline prize pack that includes...a Maybelline compact mirror, full-sized samples of Great Lash BIG and other fabulous Maybelline NY products is...Linda May!

Congrats Linda, you’ll definitely be putting your freshest fall face forward with this $75 prize!

Be on the lookout for a confirmation email from me to arrive soon.

For those of you who didn't win, stay tuned for a new giveaway announcement next week!

If you can't wait until then...head on over to my good friend Paula over at Older Girl Beauty. She is having a giveaway celebrating her 1 year in the beauty blogging biz. Let me tell you ladies, it's a giveaway that's as fantabulous as her blog...the retail value is $300! So hurry on over!

estee lauder advanced night repair synchronized recovery complex

2009-11-13T16:51:00.002-05:00

This is one of the reasons why I'm able to look presentable come morning.

Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex ($47.50-$74.50) is truly a miracle worker, as far as I'm concerned.

I'll just apply the serum at night, after washing and before moisturizer, then it's all hello-glowy-skin come morning.

And that's just the best thing ever.

Because, trust me, I need all the help I can get.

I mean...really...with our new baby and a really really over-active toddler, I'm lucky to get one minute of peace, let alone a full nights sleep.

Just saying.

Find yours at esteelauder.com.

editor's note: this review includes a product provided to me by a rep from the company. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

some tips for your tips...courtesy of skyy hadley

2009-11-13T12:21:00.000-05:00

Where does the time go?

I mean...really...WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?

It seems like it was just summer and I was sweating my makeup off and now it's almost winter.

WINTER!!!

Anyway...Skyy Hadley, owner of As “U” Wish Nail Spa (that's her in the pic, is she not simply gorgeous?), is here to give us some tips for keeping our skin, and especially our hands, healthy!

Read on...

Gloves and mittens can sometimes tear at our nails. If your nail splits, cracks or tears on the edge, drop a small amount of nail glue on the nail where it is damaged and then lay a tiny piece of facial tissue over the nail glue. Let the nail glue dry and gently buff to smooth. The benefit of using tissue rather than fabric is that when the tissue dries over the glue, it will become clear. If you use a fabric, like silk, you will see the individual stitches in fabric.

If you get a hang nail, resist the temptation to pull. Take a nail clipper and gently clip the hangnail at the root. Spray the entire nail with an astringent, to prevent germs and bacteria from infecting the nail.

Here's a great DIY treatment...

If you can’t make it into the salon to be pampered, you can make your own moisturizing treatment for your hands and feet that will counteract the drying effects of the cooler temperatures.

Take one cup of regular oatmeal and ½ cup of regular milk and heat up over the stove. Stir until cooked, add sugar to thicken the mixture, and then let cool a bit. When the mix is thickened, apply to hands and feet. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. The oatmeal soothes dry, itchy skin, and the milk acts as an exfoliant to help get rid of dry and dead skin cells. Finish off with pure shea butter as a moisturizer or a product that contains shea butter.

Thanks Skyy!

If you're ever in the area, stop in to Skyy's gorgeous Hoboken, NJ salon for some fabulous treatments.

Check out the menu of services at asuwishnailspa.com.

nars limited edition 15x15 book launches tonight!

2009-11-12T12:10:00.001-05:00

If you're a NARS fanatic, you will have to wait no longer.

In celebration of 15 years of iconic beauty and François Nars, the limited-edition 15X15 book (only 1,500 copies are available of the $80 book fyi), individual portraits from the book, and photographic interpretations taken by the participants, will be available for purchase on the 15X15 Online Gallery.

The countdown starts now...there is literally a clock that is counting down the hours, minutes, and seconds on the site... and the sale will begin tonight at 8pm EST through December 12, 2009.

100% of the proceeds from the project will be distributed among the 15 charities chosen by the participating celebrities...Amber Valetta, Carla Gugino, Daphne Guinness, Isabella Rossellini, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Marc Jacobs, and Naomi Campbell...just to name a few.

You can even become a fan of the NARS 15X15 Project on Facebook and pick up some exclusive details leading up to the launch.

How fab is that?

Just remember to head on over to the 15X15project.com today!

this just in...new u by ungaro color collection for avon

2009-11-11T12:00:00.001-05:00

Just got this email the other day and I had to share ASAP!

Behold the debut of the new U by Ungaro Color Collection for Avon.

Yes...I said Avon.

More of the deliciousness follows....

Yes, I will try to find out the colors used on the above model. Gorgeous.

Here's more...

I'm in love with those lippie shades...especially the nude-ish one.

Available now for $10-$20 through your Avon rep or avon.com. Although I did not see it yet on the site, it should be there soon...keep checking back.

what i'm loving...bobbi brown glitter lip balm palette

2009-11-11T09:30:00.004-05:00

This palette ($40) has taken up permanent residency in my makeup bag.

While the colors aren't dark...basically very sheer versions of the colors you see above...they definitely deposit enough shine and sparkle.

Don't let the word "sparkle" scare you though, it doesn't look disco-ballery, but it can definitely pack a glittery punch if you add too much. If that's not your thing, use enough to make your lips moist (they are balms after all) or layer a little over one of your fave lippies. Another thing to do is to just touch a dab in the center of your bottom lip for a nice pow effect.

I myself love a little shimmer in the morning, noon, and night though...so it works for me.

Something to check out either way.

Find yours at bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

editor's note: this review includes a product provided to me by a rep from the company. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

nars holiday 2009 limited edition gifts

2009-11-10T14:47:00.000-05:00

Just in time for some gorgeous gifting, NARS has come out with their 15th Anniversary Palettes ($75 each).

Everlasting Love contains intense eye hues to create the perfect smoky eye, as well as Orgasm Blush and The Multiple in South Beach. Can you imagine the looks you'll create honey?

Then there's this one...

Wild at Heart, which puts the emphasis on bold lips as opposed to eyes. Although, honestly, you could still create a fierce eye with this selection as well. It also comes with the Orgasm Blush/South Beach Multiple duo.

Love. Love. Love them.

As if that's not enough get you going...behold NARS The Multiple Coffret ($40).

Adorable little mini multiples that are only sold at Sephora stores and at sephora.com. With the limited edition trio, you'll get a mini Orgasm (the infamous peachy shade loved the world over), South Beach (the shimmery apricot that is a fab bronzer too), and Copacabana (a pearly sheen that will give leave you glowy).

Snatch them all before they're gone...as each one is a limited edition.

Find the palettes at narscosmetics.com and sephora.com.

beauty buys under $10 - rembrandt whitening mouthwash with flouride

2009-11-10T10:37:00.002-05:00

One of the few mouthwashes out there that manages to freshen your breath and brighten your smile at the same time.

Plus the bottle is just the thing you would't mind guests seeing when they open up your medicine cabinet.

You so know they do that...right?

Priced under $10, I found it online at drugstore.com for $5.99, it's friendly on the wallet too.

I love it for the taste and the non-mouth-burning clean that it delivers with each use.

Find yours at rembrandt.com.

editor's note: this review includes a product provided to me by a rep from the company. the links provided are not affiliate links...meaning they are links but I am making no money from them...trust me on that.

rodial a-list cleanser

2009-11-09T08:43:00.002-05:00

With the steadily dropping temperature, comes the annoying moisture-depleting air.

When you add indoor heating to the mix, that equals a total hydration zapper.

One thing you can do...besides arming yourself with some richer day lotion or cream...is to switch your summertime cleanser with one more suited for fall and winter.

A fabulous one to try?

Rodial A-List Cleanser ($59).

It's a balm cleanser that removes makeup and dirt, without stripping the essential oils from your skin.

Over time it's said to help reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation, as well as brighten things up.

Thank goodness I can't vouch for the "reducing of age spots" part because I don't have any....yet (and hopefully NEVER).

What I can say is that it removes every trace of makeup and makes my skin feel refreshed, hydrated, and glowy.

Results that totally work for me.

Find yours at beauty.com.

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bobbi brown chrome collection

2009-11-08T10:16:00.002-05:00

Honestly, everytime I think that I'm ahead of the game and have everything that I need from Bobbi Brown, out she comes with something else. The result of which leaves me swooning and reaching for my credit card.

Bobbi's new Chrome Collection is divine and going on my wish list as things I ~~love~~ ~~want~~ NEED in my life right now.

Behold...

For starters, here's the Chrome Palette ($75) her cool, contemporary take on holiday beauty. It features icy shimmering accents for eyes and lips, plus it ingeniously folds out.

Everything you need is included to create countless party-read looks: 10 eye shadows, 4 lip shades, a Mini Eye Shadow Brush and a Mini Lip Brush.

Chrome lips are another trend Bobbi loves for the holiday season. She's introducing three new limited edition products for lips: Port Lip Color ($22), Chrome Metallic Lip Color ($22) and Plum Pearl Metallic Lip Color ($22).

The collection also includes Bobbi’s holiday Chrome Mini Brush Set ($55) the perfect present for the beauty-junkie in your life (or yourself!). The set, which comes in a chrome zip-around case features a Mini Face Blender, her new Mini Angle Eye Shadow Brush and a Mini Eye Liner brush.

You can check it out in the video below which intros the collection. It's uber short...like blink-and-you-miss-it short...but still fun none-the-less.

Find yours at bobbibrowncosmetics.com.