Make Up Beauty Tips

SculptDiva™ Contouring & Sculpting Blush with Amplifat™ in Crave

My first thought on learning Fusion Beauty had developed and launched a new cream to powder blush with the "taste" of cheek sculpting as its premise was - copy cat!  You see, as an avid fan and follower of the delicious PurpleLabNYC brand of beauty, I couldn't help but notice SculptDiva's similarity to the already released Cheek Implants Cream Blush by PurpleLab.

Well, I guess there's room at the table for more, right? I also suspect Fusion Beauty won't be the last to follow in the visionary footsteps of the Divine Ms. Karen (Robinovitz, PurpleLabNYC Creatrix), whether with sculpting, contouring blush or any of Karen's other "children," the beauty products she brings to life.

Soooooo, back to Sculptiva. It turns out there are many reasons to give this new blush a look-see.  Fusion Beauty SculptDiva Contouring & Sculpting Blush with Amplifat (more on that in a sec) is a double-duty cream-to-powder blush that endeavors to impart a youthful, flushed look while helping to perfect the skin.


This high-performance cheek color is infused with rose bud extracts to help minimize pores on cheeks, and advanced skin conditioners for a hydrating touch. A concentrated dose of AmpliFat complex plumps the skin for visibly firmer, more supple-looking cheeks in 28 days. Over time, the perfect shades claim to work to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and help to enhance the appearance of skin volume.

Ok, so what exactly is Amplifat?
It's a concentrate suspended in calcium-based microspheres that mimic the results of injectable facial fillers as an ingredient in products to promote increased density and volume in the face. Currently, Amplifat is used in FusionBeauty ColorCeuticals’ SculptDiva Contouring & Sculpting Blush and IllumiFill Line Filling Luminizer.

"We have the ability to see the potential of these raw materials and use them in creative ways to basically satisfy key consumer benefits,” shares Fusion Brands’ Roslyn Griner, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Development.  In fact, look for Fusion Beauty to expand their cosmeceutical lines in the very near future.  They're counting on celebrity representation (Kim Kardashian for one) and Sephora to help get the word out about their technological advances to the masses.


Fusion Beauty SculptDiva™ Contouring & Sculpting Blush with Amplifat™ is available in four beautiful shades (above) and retails for $29 each.  You'll find more information in-store and online at Sephora and may purchase the blush at Sephora.

Oh, you're not going to believe this one, Stila Girls.  A Stila palette of colors for $10, are you kidding?  

Stila Girl Travel Palettes! Follow the five Stila girls as they travel across the world and get five complete looks (launching each month June through December). Now, these aren't huge, they're more like the size of an index card, but each contains plenty of product for many looks of fun. As a green-eyed girl, I truly adore the colors in this one - those purples, mauves, plummy shimmers. All destined to make a green eye pop!

The first of the series is Road to Radiance Across the USA inspired by Kylie's road trip across the US!

• 
  
  Snow Bunny (shimmery pink-champagne)
• 
  
  Southern Belle (mauve)
• 
  
  Valley Girl (pink)
• 
  
  City Chick (alloy)

• 
  
  Hibiscus

Each palette is ONLY $10, a $65 VALUE! Collect all five (check back next month for the new palette!) Absolutely gorgeous.  I've already ordered mine. Click here to learn more about the travel palettes and Kylie's trip!

For more information or to purchase this fab little limited edition palette, visit Stila online today! There is one downer, shipping is $7.95. Whew ... come on, Stila, you gotta fix that!

Erno Laszlo is a brand I must confess I don't have much experience with. When I received word of this web exclusive limited edition set, I took the opportunity to do a little research.

What I discovered, in short, is that Erno Laszlo has been producing cutting edge innovative products since 1927. The brand is synonymous with purity, effectiveness and a personalized approach with women and men the world over. Erno Laszlo is the first dermatologist-created skincare. As a young Hungarian dermatologist, Dr. Laszlo revolutionized the skincare business. He was the first to formulate sunscreens, design water-based products for oily skin, and prescribe personalized skincare "rituals" to his clients, among other firsts.

Every Laszlo Ritual begins with Dr. Laszlo's water-wash technique, even still today. He taught that splashing the face with comfortably-hot water and using his specially designed cleansers helped to:

• deeply cleanse skin
• exfoliate dead skin cells
• flush out toxins
• strengthen, plump and soften skin
• stimulate collagen production
• and enhance the absorption of moisturizer

His clients included Hollywood's most glamorous - Greta Garbo, Ava Gardner, Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe to name a few. Dr. Laszlo's skincare regimens became highly sought after, and still are to this day. Everyone has their own Laszlo Ritual prescribed to them. You can gain your personalized ritual via Erno Laszlo online.


One thing unavoidably noticeable viewing the site is that the products are high end on the price point. One cream I saw retails for over $500 a jar. That being said, I was increasingly happy to learn that Erno Laszlo offers web-exclusive products at discounted pricing.


You'll receive both the blusher and bronzer. The blusher and the bronzer look natural when applied and blend easily with any skin tone to give your skin the most naturally-blushed, sun-kissed look. There are tips for applying on the website. It's definitely worth perusing.

We've all come to know and love NARS for their Orgasm Blush, a huge cult favorite. But their lip products are just as coveted by those in the know! Case in point, NARS's NEW! Love Set. Love Set is a limited-edition set featuring three NARS shades designed to reveal a natural, healthy glow. Yes, yes - you'll get the Orgasm blush!

Here's what's included: the best-selling blush in Orgasm, lip gloss in Pillow Talk and a velvet matte lip pencil in Sex Machine. Packed in a sleek, see-through black box. A $73 value but available at NARS online for a limited time for $49. Yum!!

For more information on the NARS Love Set and other product combination sets priced right, visit them online now. Hurry before they take 'em away!

Viva la Romance!

Who can resist the intoxication of love? Mmmm ... fall head over heals for just-bitten lips and perfectly flushed cheeks with Smashbox's prettiest pinks and reds.

(click image to enlarge for detail)

As I reviewed my 2007 list from last year, I was reminded of great products that I still use today, some of which you'll see showing up on my list again this year. Also, there are some products that I've returned to and will list as favorites for 2008 that I'd used a while back and have come to realize they are just too good not to resurrect.

You'll see some newcomers in my list of favorites, especially in the category of skincare, and these delights are definitely to be checked out for yourself! Though I continue to age, my skin has literally never looked bettter, and I owe a debt of gratitude to the companies that make the products I've been using for such wonderful results.

1. FACIAL CLEANSER

Pomega5 Pomegranate Cleansing Bar $18
A deep cleansing facial treatment for all skin types. Essential oils of myrtle and eucalyptus provide deep cleansing and disinfection, omega-rich olive oil moisturizes; pomegranate seed oil protects and balances; mini bark particles gently exfoliate; aromatherapeutic lemongrass enlivens the senses; long-lasting and lathers beautifully; can be used on face and body; naturally preservative-free; contains no synthetics, parabens or perfumes. Not tested on animals. Another thing to love about it - it lasts for-eva!
pomega5



2. FACIAL EXFOLIANT

Rodan + Fields Microdermabrasion Paste $77
Same as last year, this is still the best! R+F used to have this product in their Reverse line-up and now it's part of what they're calling their Enhancements line, but still the same great sugar and salt scrub featuring vitamins C & E in an oil-free (that part still blows me away, try it, you'll see why), deeply hydrating exfolation treatment - love it! Another product where a little goes a long way. I've had my jar for a year and there's still plenty left. Great investment.
rodanandfields



3. FACIAL MASK

Alaksa Glacial Mud Masque $34
Hands down 'The Best' mask out there. It contains the most mineral-rich and pure glacial clay in the world, sustainably harvested from the remote waters of the Copper River Delta in Alaska. The masque detoxifies, exfoliates and softens skin while more than 60 nourishing major and trace elements promote healthy skin cell regeneration. The pure mud is further enriched with a special combination of certified organic and wildcrafted botanical extracts from the Pacific Northwest including kelp, nettle, horsetail, elderflower, yarrow, cranberry, blueberry and vitamins e and b5 that are chosen for their moisturizing, skin-softening, anti-aging and immunoprotective properties. You will FEEL it working its magic just seconds after application. Both my teenage son and I adore this porduct. We've probably ordered a case since first trying it, and we'll continue to do so - it's just that good. I recommend applying with their mud masque application brush - it's wonderful!
alaskaglacialmud


4. FACIAL MOISTURIZERS

DAY - Pomega5 Revitalizing Essential Moisture $48
Rich in nourishing fatty acids and essential oils, this deliciously-fragrant cream feels soft and silky to the touch, yet absorbs immediately to leave skin with a healthy glow and renewed freshness. Pomegranate seed oil, bearberry and bilberry - natural clearing agents - work to clarify skin and protect against environmental damage; Wild Moroccan argan nourishes, softens and renews elasticity; nutrient-rich horsetail firms and revitalizes at the cellular level; contains no fillers, synthetics, parabens, or perfumes. Not tested on animals. you can really feel the firming effect of this cream - one of its many benefits. [A shame as it is now discontinued, but Pomega5 Green Tea Lotion is fabulous as well.]
pomega5

NIGHT - Pomegranate Health Anti-Aging Anti-Wrinkle Face Cream $36.95
This is a luxurious blend of the known benefits of natural Pomegranate Seed Oil, a proprietary pomegranate extract (it’s their secret!), and Amino Acids (Hexapeptides), Alpha Lipoic Acid, (Thioctic Acid) and an extract of Brown Algae (Laminaria Digitalia). These algae are superb moisturizers containing amino acids similar to those in human skin. They add Vitamins A, C and E and a careful selection of natural essential oils for a silky, luxurious cream that's gentle and quickly absorbed by your skin. They also add a wonderfully powerful amino acid, DMAE, which supports healthy skin by supporting the integrity of cell membranes It also helps block the production of certain other acid substances that lead to sagging of your skin and those dreaded wrinkles. You’ll love the way it help maintain smooth, firm and contoured skin! It's a silky, creamy blend, with a delicate citrus scent to enliven your skin and your spirit.
pomegranatehealth

5. ORGANIC LINE OF FACIAL CARE

Organic Apoteke Rejuvenating Line
Everything about this brand of skincare is superb! I've written extensively about it; you can check that out here. My favorites in this line are the Rasayana Rejuvenating Serum and the Rejuvenating Face Cream with its organic rose oil - over 4 pounds of rose petals are used to make just one 1.7 oz bottle - amazing and absolutely beautiful!
organic apoteke


6. LUXURY LINE OF FACIAL CARE

FOUND - Sarpa Wrinkle Reducing Serum $225
SARPA serum is a beneficial potion formulated with a peptide that imitates the venom of the Viper of the Temple of the Azure Cloud. SARPA is a non-greasy emulsion serum. SARPA is viscous like all venoms, due to the high concentration of active ingredients and Sodium Hyaluronate. The serum is a treatment that has a high concentration of active matter (47%). Enriched with powerful peptides and Hyaluronic Acid, it moisturises, smoothes and relaxes the skin. The firming benefits of this product are brilliant!

FOUND - Istr Global Anti-Aging Cream $195
Very enriched with active matter (33.45%) that actively combats aging, restructures, nourishes, firms, moisturizes and smoothes skin. It has an almost custard-like consistency - very unique, dense and rich in texture.

I've written about this brand, created by Eric Cosson, a self-confessed "science addict". The tale behind the brand is as romantic as the ingredients and the results. The packaging, application, concept, just about everything about this brand is luxurious! You can read more about it here. FOUND is available at Aedes.

7. FACIAL PRIMER

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer $36
I'm back to my old favorite with this one. It really is amazing in providing an almost flawless canvas upon which you can apply your foundation, whether in liquid, cream or powder form. The primer is a silky blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea. Worn alone or under foundation to increase its longevity, this best-selling primer helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores for flawless skin with a velvety-smooth finish. (NOTE: I do not like the one with Dermaxyl, the SPF; it doesn't blend well for me, it forms little clumps and granules I don't like; I stick to the original one.)
smashbox


8. FOUNDATION

Prescriptives Flawless Skin with SPF15 $39.50
Again - back to a tried and true with the selection of this foundation. I sitll enjoy my Armani LSF and my Lancome foundation, but this one gets the mark of favorite this year for its coverage, lightness of texture, blendability and longevity in wear. The groundbreaking formula with Pro-XCell Complex, works to protect against sun damage and external assaults, while simultaneously diffusing imperfections. I just think it's fabulous!
prescriptives


9. CONCEALER

Mary Kay Concealer $10
Nothing seems to compare to this for me. It was my favorite last year as well. The coverage is outstanding, even camouflaging dark circles and it blends beautifully. A little goes a long way. Of course, the price is fantastic too!
marykay


10. FACIAL POWDER

Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder $59
There's nothing else like this powder on the market. HALO is the first anti-aging powder with the science of skin care built in. It's advanced formulation of pure gold, 48 minerals, 11 amino acids and a powerful peptide deliver powerful anti-aging benefits while the patented hydration system continuously revitalizes skin for a brighter, more radiant complexion all day. HALO’s innovative built in shaver gives you the perfect amount of luminous loose powder every time with no mess. A true multi-tasker! So magnificent is it, the powder has been clinically shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles in 10 minutes. Yes ma'am, I said it, I sure did. And - another product where a little goes a long way and comes with its own kabuki brush for flawless application. It just doesn't get any better than that. Well, I guess unless it was free, but it's well worth every penny! : )
smashbox

11. EYE COSMETICS

Can't help it. I'm a creature of habit. My favorites last year are still my favorites this year. Well, at least in the categories of shadows and liners. MAC Pigments are my HG's. I also enjoy a hard to find single, Milani in Java Bean, for crease and contour (bring back your old singles, Milani, please - they're fab, why mess with what isn't broken), and I adore my Lancome Artliners. No changes.

New Mascara Fave - L'Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes $10.95
I will name a new favorite in mascara - it's THE BOMB! Yes, yes, I know, I wrote about it just recently. I tell you, this is just as good as my high end mascaras, yet even better in lengthening, and I couldn't be more pleased to have stumbled across it. Clump-free length, smudge-proof, flake-proof, longwearing hold, rinses clean with water, great for sensitive eyes even contact lens wearers (like me). Available at drugstores and mass retailers all over.

You're going to have an opportunity to try this for yourself soon. I've got a whopper of a giveaway thanks to L'Oreal Paris coming soon - be watchful you don't want to miss this!


12. BLUSH

Prescriptives Colorscope Plush Blush for Cheeks and Lips $20
I think I wear this just about every day! Even when I highlight or add other blushes for variety in color, I generally use this as a base. The weightless gel formula glides on and blends effortlessly to give skin a fresh, healthy flush in a sheer finish. Presented in a compact, portable stick for easy touch-ups anytime, anywhere. My favorite shade is Voodoo! It's a deep plummy-wine color, yet sheer on application with lovely light-reflecting pigment.
prescriptives


13. LIPSTICK

YSL Beauty Rouge Volupte' $34
Hands down - the best lipstick formulation on the market right now in my opinion - and I dare say, many others' opinions as well. Read my beauty blogging buddies' sites for renditions of why they love it (Blogdorf Goodman - Annie has it in her favorites too, KarlaSugar's TNBTTGSY -you can also see swatches of all the shades, The Daily Cookie, The Daily Obsession, Palacinka, The Makeup Divas, Temptalia). The texture of this lippie is unbelievably sensual. The cream becomes fluid with on contact with your lips and the coverage and high pigmentation is stunning. The sleek and elegant tube packaging of the product itself is collectible. You can read more about what FTLOB had to say about it here. Favorite shade? Their hot pink Rouge Volupte' #10.
yslbeauty


14. LIP GLOSS/PLUMPING GLOSS

M·A·C Plushglass $17.50
I'm a fan of pretty much all the MAC glosses in their varieties. I know this particular MAC product doesn't seem to get a whole ot of buzz, but I just love it! Not only is the formulation lovely, non-sticky, long-lasting, pleasant tasting, but the look of plumped up, more voluminous lips is actually very nice. The gloss itself is lush and multi-dimensional with a pearlized high-shine finish. Sensational in application: gives a cool-warm, vanilla buzz to the lips. Moisturizes, soothes and contains vitamin E for added environmental protection. My favorite shade is Oversexed but I really enjoy many of them.
MAC

p.s. - My absolute favorite lipgloss historically has been Pout Lip Polish in Easy Ethel - but as they don't make that anymore (only able to find it here and there), I'm going with one you can still find. ; )

15. BODY WASH/GEL

Philosophy 3-in-1's $16 - 22 (depending on where you buy them)
I've loved these washes for years. They lather up well, smell amazing, are gentle cleansers and multi-taskers. You'll always find one (or two, or many) in my shower. Favorite scents are Amazing Grace and Inner Grace. I also love both these scents in their fragrance versions; you can always count them among my favorites!
philosophy


16. BODY SCRUB/EXFOLIANT

DERMAdoctor KP Duty $44 (16 oz)
This stuff rocks! I've got backups of this so I never run out or in case they discontinue it (which always seems to happen with my best loved products). KP Duty delivers serious medi-exfoliation for deeper, more thorough results. This dual action chemical + physical exfoliator blends the best of a chemical peel and microdermabrasion into a single, easy to use treatment created by leading dermatologist Audrey Kunin, MD (the DERMAdoctor). My arms have never been smoother - it's wonderful!
dermadoctor



17. BODY MOISTURIZER/CREAM

LaVanila Body Butters $25
These all natural, organic scented body butters are divine for the skin. They absorb instantly, hydrating and softening skin with 100% pure shea and cocoa butters. They contain anti-oxidants and 30 essential vitamins and minerals and they smell amazing. The butters are rich, velvety and reach deep into the skin.. This is not a moisturizer that will simply sit on top of your skin. You'll notice the hydration here. My favorites are their original fragrances in Vanilla Grapefruit, Pure Vanilla and Vanilla Blossom. It says something about a product if you order it more than once, and these I've ordered these over and over again. Love 'em!
lavanila

18. HAIRCARE

Everday Care - Redken Real Control Shampoo and Conditioner $12-$14
This line is specifically targeted to women (although men may use it too) who have dry, dense, chemically-treated hair prone to frizz - that's me. The shampoo is a soft, lathering shampoo that provides nourishment, smoothing and repair, while gently cleansing hair. The conditioner provides intense nourishment and detangling to dense hair helping it feel moisturized, smooth and controlled with a vibrant, shiny finish. You can read more about my review of it here. redken

Specialized Care - Pureology DandruffScalpCure Shampoo and Conditioner $38
A gentle, effective approach to dandruff for color-treated hair, Pureology DandruffScalpCure is an anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner combination with a doze of 2% Pyrithione Zinc, which helps fight the scalp scaling, itching and flaking associated with dandruff as well as prevent the recurrence of dandruff-related symptoms with regular use. In a nutshell, it works and the color maintenance is fantastic - no fading here! You can read my review of this line here.
pureology

p.s. - Still love pRAWduct Flat Factor as a styling product and pRAWduct Love That Shine Drops for a finishing product (and extra shiny hair), and my pick for favorite hair dryer is definitely the T3 Featherweight - it cuts my drying time in hair and keeps my hair healthy and shiny.

19. FRAGRANCE

You'll have to forgive me with this category as I'm going to name a few. All I've loved equally as much this past year and continue to enjoy spritzing. I'm a fragrance chameleon so there's a different scent on every day, and sometimes there are many scents on throughtout the day. I can't decide - and love so many.

Harajuku Lovers in Love $25 - $45
I was so intrigued by Gwen Stefani's line of adorable, doll-themed bottles as well as the fragrances they held; each with its own identity - you can read more about that and their inspiration here. Love, my favorite of the series, is a sensuous floral concocted by Yves Cassar and Pascal Gaurin of International Flavors & Fragrances, has top notes of sparkling bergamot, pink pomelo, peach and bamboo leaf mist; a heart of watery peony, living hydroponic lace rose, jasmine sambac, nectarine blossom, creamy paperwhites and Egyptian jasmine, and a drydown of petally ylang, creamy vanilla orchid, sensual musk and blond wood.
hlfragrance

Black Amethyst EDT by Bath & Body Works $26.50
What draws me to this fragrance is that it reminds me of Chanel Chance but is much less expensive - ha! What I don't like about it is the packaging - I think BBW is revamping that and I truly hope they do. The edt bottle and packaging isn't bad, though - it's elegant and simple, much better and eye catching than the blackened tulips and cheap purple swirling on the other body products for the scent. Now, what I love about it is the sensuousness of the fragrance itself - the perfumers have seductively layered a sophisticated blend of Italian bergamot and rare camellias with exotic sandalwood and a surprising twist of vetiver resulting in a hypnotic, fine fragrance.
bath&bodyworks

Stoned $285
This seductive fragrance wow'ed me upon first whiff and renewed my love of perfume this year. Created by London jeweler Solange in collaboration with perfumer Lyn Harris, Stoned is a heady mix of sweet candy fused with the mystery of patchouli; a fresh top note of honeyed-Italian bergamot combines with classic rose; jasmine absolute fuses with labdanum, benzoin, tree moss and heliotrope – often associated with the mineral bloodstone for it’s enticing blue-purple colour to create the dark, warm heart of the fragrance; musk and vanilla bourbon create an addictive animal attraction... the jewelled scent permeates your skin and senses until you are "stoned" ... 'tis quite an experience! The bottle is as intriguing and mysetrious as the fragrance itself. You can read more about it and my review written mid-year here.
solange

20. FAVORITE NICHE BEAUTY STORES

There are a number of beauty related stores that bear mentioning in a category of favorites. These stores stand out for me as simply the best of the best - for the pleasurable shopping experience, the unique brands and products as well as organic lines they offer, their fantastic customer service and their lagniappe goodies (little something extras). In no particular order, they are:

Here's a sneak peak at BeneFit's new product CORALista!



Take a pleasure trip with CORALista, our new tropical blush for a coral flush. Sweep this warm coral pink powder onto cheeks for an instant smile. Move your brush to the beat and turn up the heat...bikini optional! $28



Shop BeneFit for more info and to see what all the blush fuss is about.

Scarlett Johansson and Eva Mendes at the launch party for their new film The Spirit. What you notice most is their flawless skin, touched up surperbly with a little peachy-apricot blush. As Beauty Counter tells us in Celebrity Looks, a winter flush is a key component of the makeup look for the season.

I love that electric blue eyeliner on Eva. The whole look blends beautifully with her gorgeous canary yellow dress. To get a more detailed (larger) image of the two, click here for Beauty Counter's pic.

source: style.com/getty images

With each DuWop Breast Cancer Awareness product purchase, receive a complimentary pink wristlet.

LIPLINGO PINK LE $32.50
DuWop introduces a limited-edition Liplingo Pink lip palette to raise awareness about breast cancer. Liplingo Pink is a sleek lip palette containing a rose lipstick and four wonderful ways to top it: a subtle gold frost, a pale pink shimmer gloss, a rich pink sherbet tone with sparkle and a pink tinged clear balm with a high shine. Both the lipstick and the glosses pack an extra punch with a potent blend of antioxidants including pomegranate and berry extracts. Liplingo Pink is housed in a sleeve bearing the names of many women who have been affected by breast cancer.

PINK SHIMMER BRICK LE $18.50
DuWop introduces a limited-edition Pink Shimmer Brick to raise awareness about breast cancer. DuWop's Pink Shimmer Brick is extremely versatile and can be dusted over bare skin for just a hint of shimmer that catches the light and brightens the complexion. The silvery pink hues in the shimmer brick can help even out the skin tone, hide imperfections, and illuminate the skin. Layer over blush for a beautiful glow or use it as the final dusting to makeup for a radiant look.DuWop's Pink Shimmer Brick is housed in a sleeve bearing the names of many women who have been affected by breast cancer.

For more information or to purchase, please visit DuWop.com.

ENERGY - BEAUTY - YOUTH

Kimiko is a gotta-try brand!

I admit it. I peruse my Bliss Spa catalog every single month for new products and brands to try. Bliss has become kind of a birthing ground for unique, high-end cosmetics and skincare brands wanting to get their products to those who know what quality in beauty is all about - you! I've been eyeing these Kimiko products for months wondering if they could be as fab as the look. They are. Here's the scoop:


Kimiko defines the next generation of beauty - breakthrough skincare united with luxurious color. Kimiko is a revolutionary line of skincare solutions built directly into cosmetics. Transcending traditional makeup, Kimiko is designed as the first color collection to instantly enhance skin while providing targeted treatments. Through the harmony of science and artistry, Kimiko is makeup with intention. Each stroke of color delivers signature trademarked ingredient complexes to help smooth, firm and rejuvenate skin. Kimiko's practice of intelligent beauty gives every application purpose for complexions that are brilliant today and youthful tomorrow. Kimiko embodies the spirit of the Japanese characters that compose its name - KI (Energy), MI (Beauty) and KO (Youth) - by giving women beauty beyond just today.

I'm all about getting skincare in my cosmetics. Recently, I told you about Kanebo Sensai's Brush Type Concealer, which I'm still loooooving by the way. Kimiko's products have a similar concept. These are luxurious products with thought, care and science behind them. I'm fast getting hooked on the brand. After months of drooling over these in my Bliss catalogs, I've finally gotten the Lifting Plush Blush and the Sheer Tint and Lip Plumper.


Lifting Puff Blush - $38
With Hydra-FirmaLift™
Helps to lift and firm skin
Convenient puff applicator

This unique lifting and enhancing blush softly brightens cheeks by adding healthy looking color while simultaneously giving your skin an uplifting treatment. This purse-friendly blush has a mirror built into the cap for perfectly easy touch-ups. Comes in shades of Golden Geisha, Plum Wine, Cherry Blossom and Sweet Lychee.

REVIEW: This product is exactly what it claims to be. I've been using gel stains and gel sticks in my blush for over a year now, so I wasn't sure I'd actually like this but was interested enough in the skincare benefit to want to try it. This product is easy to apply; you control how much you want to apply. It blends effortlessly for a soft flushed look and helps to give a brightened appearance to the face. The shade I chose was exactly what I hoped it would be in a plumy wine. Although it's described as having shimmer, this isn't the glittery too pearly looking shimmer you might expect in a highlighting type product. It's soft on the eyes. You can contour and enhance with this product just by adjusting the amount you apply. I love the little mirror on top, which makes throwing this little gem in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day a snap. A little goes a long way, so although one might swallow hard at the $38 price, you're going to have this for a very long time.

Sheer Tint and Lip Plumper - $37
Dehydrated collagen molecules re-hydrate to instantly plump and smooth lips
Berry and pomegranate extracts give color and antioxidant protection
Hydrates lips and helps increase elasticity, smoothness and production of collagen

Channel your inner vixen with this natural and effective lip enhancer! This unique tinted treatment creates sheer, buildable color with berry and pomegranate extracts that have added antioxidant protection. Hydra-FirmaLift™ helps reduce lip lines and increase overall hydration. The reverse end holds an advanced Plumper containing patented dehydrated collagen molecules that expand with the lip's natural moisture to instantly increase lip volume, reduce fine lines and give lips a fuller, smoother look. This non-irritating Plumper has a cool refreshing feel. Comes in these shades - Sparkling Berry, Sweet Plum, Pink Sake, Pomegranate, Raspberry and Golden Apricot.

REVIEW: A definite winner! I've been a devotee to LipFusion for years. Nothing else I've tried really came close to the results and likeness until I tried this product. What I love about Kimiko's plumper is that it not only plumps volume in the lip, it's a non-irritating treatment product as well. That the color end boasts ingredients of pomegranate and berry extracts makes me a very happy camper (or plumper, depending on how you want to word it). Anyway, this truly is a gorgeous product in a sleek double-sided wand. Color is sheer and buildable and I love that they've recently expanded their shade selection - the colors are really all very pretty. There's a light minty flavor here, but no fruity, icky sweetness that would offend those who prefer a more un-scented/flavored lipgloss and the texture of both the color and plumper is very nice - not at all sticky, very hydrating (lasts for hours) and lip apperance is visibly improved with the wearing (plumper, lines minimized, full and healthy looking).

For more information on Kimiko, please visit them online. For purchasing, visit Kimiko, Vivre or Blissworld online or in person at Takashimaya NYC, Studio Fred Segal.

So much to see and so little time ... well these days, so little $$ as it's all going to gasoline ... right? A tasting of what's out there, little treasures here and there, to whet our whistles. I enjoy discovering new finds I probably never would have come across in a million years if I had to pound the pavement searching in windows. Here are a few recent finds.




U.O. Crochet Eye Compact
Sleek snakeskin compact topped with delicate crochet. Inside, there are 7 shimmery shades of eye shadow a dual applicator. Exclusive to Urban Outfitters. Available in warm (shown) and cool (pinky, lavender shades) - $15



Shu Uemura Instinct Fall Mode Makeup Limited Edition Luring Powder
In this collection, complexion is the essential element for creating an alluring makeup look that radiates sensuality. Create an uplifted and luring complexion by lightly dusting this limited-edition unique pink shade over the face. MAKEUP ARTIST TIP: Apply the powder with a brush along the hairline and heightened parts of the face to add color and create a healthy glow. Available online at Shu Uemura - $38



CoverGirl Ultimate Finish Liquid Powder Makeup
The smooth, even coverage of a liquid and the camouflaging of a concealer with the beautiful finish of a powder-all in one easy step! Dermatologist tested, Fragrance and oil free, Concealer+foundation+powder. Many hades t choose from. Available at drugstores - $7



mark Pop In Color Lip Gloss
New Shades! Add a sheer splash of color to your lips with this high-shine gloss. Seven (7) shades to choose from. Available at Avon - $5



Global Goddess
Upgrade Complexion Face Primer
A beauty must for every Global Goddess. Smooth primer on alone or before makeup to create a radiant, even complexion with a silky finish. Pearlescent pigments reflect light, creating a youthful glow by smoothing fine lines. Contains nourishing vitamins A and E, antioxidants and soothing licorice to boost circulation and brighten skin tone. Available at Victoria's Secret - $35



Lollia Inspire Hand Cream
Hydrating shea butter is whipped with floral infusions of violet, rose and mimosa to create this lusciously moisturizing hand cream. Presented in a pretty floral box with a gift-ready paper sleeve. Shea butter, macadamia nut oil, avocado oil, other luscious scents also available. Anthropologie. 4.25 oz - $24




Tann Rokka Aki
Wrap yourself in the luxurious softness of Tann Rokka’s lush woody oriental edp masterpiece. Simultaneously opulent, with its rich amber and woody notes, and elegantly understated, the fragrance has the magical, elusive charm that is simply irresistible. The scent features the most alluring patchouli note. Gentle, Downy-like the softest of soft furs, the note gives Aki its wonderful warm depth and, combined with spicy and sweet sandalwood and the supple, sensual amber, it turns the fragrance into a comfort scent extraordinaire. A new cold weather favorite!
Aki notes: amber, cedarwood, patchouli, vetiver. Available at Luckyscent and Beautyhabit. 100 ml - $185





Modelco Body Meringue Bronze Glow
An all-in-one instant bronze shimmer and gradual self-tanner with skin-firming anti-cellulite benefits. Body Meringue Bronze Glow is a unique creamy foam that hydrates, protects, and leaves the skin feeling firm while offering a light buildable, natural tan. Get a gradual sunkissed glow with this innovative self-tanner. After smoothing it on, a light instant bronze appears so you can see exactly where you applied. That means no more uneven patches or blotches. Additionally, Body Meringue contains Slimfit, a special ingredient which works to leave the skin feeling firm and toned. Your tan gradually deepens and develops with in a few hours, and it contains a subtle, sexy shimmer for and added glow. Available at Sephora, Beautyhabit and other retailers. 7 oz - $38

I have a new favorite multi-tasking product!

Josie Maran's Finger Paints in Sweet is a gem. Think you can't create sophisticated makeup looks with your fingers? Think again. This pretty palette holds a complete wardrobe of multi-use makeup in shades specifically chosen to flatter every skin tone. The feather-light shimmers bring soft, glowy color to cheeks, lips or eyes. The innovative formula contains natural, organic ingredients - no fragrances or parabens. What's more, the beauty extends to the packaging: each shade comes housed in Josie's state-of-the-art biodegradable compact. 7.5g/0.26oz - $36

Ingredients Include: beeswax, jojoba oil, pomegranate seed oil, avocado oil, flax seed, olive oil, corn starch, cocoa butter and shea butter.

REVIEW: These are creamy, forgiving, lightly shimmering shades that flatter any skintone. I've used the pinky color and the peach as blush and lipstick, the copper color to contour cheekbones, both the copper and peach shades as eyeshadows and for definition on sides of forehead, and the white shade truly is unbelievable. I've used that over lipstick for depth, dimension and shimmer, underneath brow bones just under the arch as a highlight, on cheekbones as a highlighter and in corner of eyes to bring brightness and open up my eyes - just love it!

Raised in a bohemian household in Northern California, Josie Maran grew up appreciating natural, unpretentious beauty. At the time, makeup – heavy and mask-like – seemed anything but pretty to her. Josie Maran Cosmetics is a fabulous, eco-conscious brand of beauty products. Here's what Josie has to say about founding a beauty company in today's environment and being responsible:

Allure creative director Paul Cavaco chose a silk beige dress by Calvin Klein Collection for Larter, which she loved so much, she asked if she could buy it. (The people at Calvin Klein were happy to give it to her.) "It's the most comfortable thing I own," she later said. Here, hairstylist Sebastien Richard fixes her hair between shots.



Makeup artist Brigitte Reiss-Andersen gave Larter a warm glow with sheer gold and light brown eye shadow on her eyes, a soft pink blush and bronzer on her cheeks, and a shiny nude lip color. "It's sunny and pretty," says Reiss-Andersen, shown here applying a nude lip gloss.





Larter grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, a suburb of Philadelphia. She calls herself an authentic Jersey girl, which she defines as someone who's "feisty, earnest, honest and fun. To me, being a Jersey girl is more about how we look at life. No apologies," says Larter.


To get her look:

(Bikini Golden, Pose)


Lancome Color Design Eyeshadow - Blend gold and copper powder eye shadows and brush them over your eyelids, extending to just above the creases but not all the way up to the brow bones.

(Petticoat Pink)

Lancome Color Design Cream Blush - Use two fingers to dab a pink cream blush on the apples of your cheeks, and blend well.

(Rose Tempest)

Lancome Color Fever Lipstick - Apply an opaque mauve lipstick to tie the look together.


source: Allure