What Is It With My Hair?!?!

Timing is everything.  Seriously.  Take my hair for example.  I don't know what exactly it is about it, but when I reeeally need some damage control (thank you multiple process bleaching followed by a razor cut), I can't seem to locate the fix.  When my hair seems to be back on track and looking fairly snazzy, I have hair repair product falling into my lap.  Go figure.  

A few weeks ago, I received a complimentary Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair through my Vogue Influencers Network to take out for a test drive.  A few of you may remember another hair repair product that I tested out about a year ago through Sephora and Vogue (and if you don't, you can hop back in time to it by clicking right here), and if you recall (or re-read), you'll also notice that I was initially at a loss for what the product actually did and/or didn't do.  Why?  Probably because my hair was already looking and feeling pretty good at that point.  Of course, since that trial I have encountered some big 'ole nasty.


The good news?  After using that previous product in conjunction with my Aveda Color Conserve shampoo and conditioner on some seriously fried fringe, it works magic on crunchy bleached hair, and frayed split ends.  The slightly bad news?  Because my hair was already being propped up by a different repair product (and I couldn't just not use anything for any period of time with the knowledge that I could not feasibly wear a hat 24/7), I had a little difficulty in seeing any drastic change for the better in my mop after using the Aveda Daily Hair Repair.  Back to good news?  I also didn't see any change for the worse after switching to the Aveda Daily Hair Repair.  Yay for everyone who has to see my hair on a daily basis! I am also happy to report that it didn't leave my hair sticky, oily, or weighed down - just soft and smooth.  Oh, and even more good news?  It costs less in my market than the other product I was using.     


I'm a little sad that I don't have any before or after pictures worth sharing with you, but what I can share with you are Aveda's bragging rights about the product.  Aveda’s Damage Remedy™ Daily Hair Repair is 97% naturally derived (from plants and non-petroleum minerals), instantly repairs damage by 26% (after 1 application of Daily Hair Repair in a clinical tensile test), and helps protect from heat styling. With the plant power of Damage Remedy™ Daily Hair Repair, it’s your daily dose for healthy-looking hair.  After using it myself, I can't speak in percentages, but I don't see anything that doesn't support the claim.  Plus, it smells like all of the other Aveda products -- fantastic.


Speaking of other products, have a look at the whole damage remedy line just queueing up for the next hair disaster.

The gentle daily shampoo helps repair damage with quinoa protein, while nurturing with rich coconut and babassu-lending new life to hair. 

The daily conditioning formula with quinoa protein helps repair and re-moisturize damaged hair - infusing it anew with healthy movement, silkiness and shine. 

The intensive weekly treatment deeply penetrates to help repair, seal and smooth even the most damaged hair. 

The Damage Remedy™ Daily Hair Repair helps protect from heat styling with wheat protein and detangles with soy oil. 

The kit uses the power of pure plant oils and quinoa protein, so it restores health, silkiness and shine. 

Think you might be ready to try some out for yourself?  Hop on over to Aveda.com, and check out all of their offerings for your whatever hair needs you might have right now.

If you like what you see, join in!  Just click the 'Join This Site' button at the top right of the homepage to keep up with Vogue fashion exclusives, new product launches, events, beauty reviews and more.  See it first, hear it first, know it first.

Heads Up: Free Aveda Damage Remedy Is On The Way!

 

Just in time for warm weather and all of the damaged hair that comes with it (pool, beach, hairbands that cause nasty breakage), my friends as the Vogue Influencer Network are hooking me up with a complimentary Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair.  Even better news?  They're also throwing in a 3-piece Damage Remedy sample pack to share with one other lucky follower out there.  I mean, who doesn't already love Aveda and their super-smelling, naturally derived products??  The only thing better than giving your hair this royal treatment is getting it for free!!


So watch for for my upcoming posts to find out more on how you can secure yourself some free Aveda Damage Remedy product, and in the meantime, why don't you get a leg up on your chance at free stuff by clicking that 'join the site' button to the right if you haven't already.  You know you, and your hair, really want to!

If you like what you see, join in!  Just click the 'Join This Site' button at the top right of the homepage to keep up with Vogue fashion exclusives, new product launches, events, beauty reviews, freebies and more.  See it first, hear it first, know it first.

Get Gorgeous this Holiday with a Gift List from QVC

Well folks, it's Cyber Monday, and after making it through all of the plates of turkey and hoards of aggro black Friday shoppers you can now just sit back, relax, and hardly have to lift a finger to get everything you need to fulfill your holiday gift list this year.  Whether you need some help in the giving department for one of those 'hard to buy for' ladies on your list, or if you're feeling a little lost when it comes to the receiving department and have no idea what to include on your own wish list as requested from a special someone; Vogue Influencers has brought in some help from QVC's Lisa Robertson.  Lisa has put together a list of her top holiday gift picks that allow you to participate in all of the joy without all of the craziness - most coming in at less than $100.  So what are you waiting for?  Scroll on down and start your clicking, or head on over to QVC.com.  Happy shopping!

1. Mally 10-piece Deluxe Automatic Waterproof Liner Collection

Mally Beauty Evercolor Automatic Waterproof Eyeliners have a long-wearing formula that contains nourishing and conditioning ingredients. For a really cool trick, line the top lash line with the Onyx, then line that line with a colored pencil. It's a subtle peep of color.

2. bareMinerals Box of Gems 20-piece Color Collection

A 20-piece collection of stunning eye and lip shades. Experience the ultimate in luxury with 10 new eye colors and 10 high-shine lip glosses that will drizzle lips in pure color. Tip: For a jewel-toned look, pair Gem and Glow eye colors--and deepen and smoke out even more with the Twinkle shade.

3. Judith Ripka Sterling Hematite Doublet Ring

A rich, deep, cushion-cut synthetic blue quartz doublet rests above a section of hematite in this mesmerizing ring. A sterling silver twisted-rope border accents the gemstone, while four heart-shaped prongs sparkle with a Diamonique® simulated diamond in the center of each.

4. Melania Madison Avenue Bold Case Bracelet Watch

As glamorous and show-stopping as New York City itself. Clear, round crystals on the connecting links of this bracelet watch are sure to attract attention, while the bold face with its mother-of-pearl dial is a classic finishing touch.

5. Nadri Micro Pave' Criss Cross Hinged Bangle Bracelet

Eternally elegant. With four bands crafted into a crisscross design and encrusted with micro-pave-style round, clear crystals on the front, this highly polished silvertone bracelet is sure to create a lasting look.

6. Dennis Basso Button Front Ruffle Collar Coat with Rosette Detail

Everything's coming up rosettes. This gorgeous fully lined, button-front coat will warm up your outlook. Ruffle details, in-seam pockets, and a cloth rosette on the collar help this stunning outerwear piece rise to the top.

7. ISAACMIZRAHILIVE! 2 Ply Cashmere V-Neck Boyfriend Cardi

Wear this boyfriend cardigan over a simple tee paired with your favorite jeans, and accessorize it with anything from a scarf to an extra-long necklace.

8. Michael Dawkins Sterling Signature Pod Small Earrings 

Small in size, but big on stylish impact, these free-form pod earrings are ideal for every day wear and special occasions. The earrings have a seamless silhouette.

If you like what you see, let me know!  Just click the 'Join This Site' button at the top right of the homepage to keep up with Vogue fashion exclusives, new product launches, events, beauty reviews and more.  Know it first, see it first, hear it first.

All Dolled Up: Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash Mascara

All 'dolled up' for this promo pic.  Slightly creepy, no?

Who doesn't love trying out a new mascara?  It can be just enough of a change to satisfy that quest for a little something different without a whole lot of commitment.  If you really go to extremes (think big fake lashes, metallics, or even white) then it can really change your entire look.  If you ask me, a person's lashes can say a lot about their personality too -- natural, sophisticated, va-va-voom, etc.


Me personally, I typically prefer the most dramatic, 'ka-pow' type lash that I can get without looking like I'm ready for a drag show.  For this reason, I was pretty excited about getting to sample the new Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash mascara through the Vogue Influencers Network.  Lancome has long been known for their mascaras, and this one is supposed to give you that much desired, fake perfect, long, fanned, curled, wide-eyed effect without actually being fake.  Though I currently have a favorite go-to mascara that I am thrilled with, I figured that this one could give it a run for it's money if anything could.  So, let's take a look at the outcome, shall we?  

For comparison, here is the 'before' shot; sans mascara (or any other eye makeup for that matter).

And now, the 'after' shot.  Several coats top and bottom.  Not bad, eh?

Here's a look from a different angle.  Anywhere near looking like a doll?

And now the entire look with mascara, liner, and shadow - hopefully not quite as creepy as the ad above.

What do you think?  Am I ready to take my place in the mascara ad with those lashes?  I will say I was a bit surprised by the results myself, as I wasn't expecting such a noticeable difference.  I should also say that this is not a mascara that goes on boldly, but one that offers a buildable application in order to arrive at your desired intensity.  Of course, with multiple coats, comes the higher likelihood of smudging, or hitting your lid with the wand, so I would say this is not necessarily for the first-time user.  I also had no flaking or noticeable smudging with wear throughout the day.


 Now that you've seen the outcome, read about the application, and are ready to go out and buy yourself a new tube of eyelashes I should remind you that everyone's eyelashes are different, and you can only work what you've got the best you can.  If you don't have much in the eyelash department to work with in the first place, then this may not be the mascara for you.  Likewise, if you prefer a more natural look, then by all means take heed.  If you're into big, bold eye fringe like me though, then maybe you'll want to give this new Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash mascara a try.


You can pick up your tube at a Lancome counter near you, or by clicking here to visit Lancome online. 

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If you like what you see, let me know!  Why not click the 'Join This Site' button at the top right of the homepage to keep up with all of my upcoming product reviews and more?

Clarisonic Challenge, Week 4

Dear Clarisonic Plus,


THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!  Not only have you improved my complexion by making it feel cleaner and fresher, you have somehow seemed to turn back the clock making it look healthier and younger with an improved texture, tone AND clarity.  Here I always thought it was moisture creams and drinking jugs of water that made all the difference, but you have proven that a daily exfoliation and deep clean go hand in hand with my hydration and moisturizer.  
No longer do I need to splurge on an expensive facial for my complexion to look and feel great, or to spend a little time pampering myself.  Now I have it all right at my fingertips! What more could I ask for?  Oh, I don't know, maybe the Opal Sonic Infusion System?  I think so!


Your new friend forever,


b-

Clarisonic Challenge Catch-Up: Weeks 1 & 2

So, I know I promised to fill you in on why I was doing so much cleaning in my last post, but first, I really need to catch up on my Clarisonic Challenge progress.  I mean, technically, the Clarisonic does fall under the cleaning category as well, right?


I believe the last time I posted about my Clarisonic Challenge progress, I was still having a little bit of user error on my end; you know, just getting used to the feel of things and how the Clarisonic Plus Cleansing System fit best in my regular cleansing routine.  (If you missed it, you can catch up here).  Well, I am SO glad I got over that, because the Clarisonic Plus is AMAZING!!  It has completely changed my perception of a clean face.  My 'problem' areas (on the sides of my nose and my recently irritable chin) have also seemed to take notice and straightened up far more significantly than I expected.  In a nutshell, the overall texture and tone of my complexion has improved in my opinion, and I'm relying a little less on foundation and concealer which has been a real gift in all of the recent heat.  Enough about what I think though; here, have a look for yourself!

Just after my first use of the Clarisonic Plus Cleansing System

After one week of using the Clarisonic Plus Cleansing System

I know the lighting is a little different from shot one to shot two, but check out the chin!  That is with absolutely NO makeup on (scary, I know), and I have not 'edited' anything out of the photo.  Pretty cool, huh?  What those pictures don't necessarily show is how much smoother really clean looks and feels - any flakiness is buffed away, and there's nothing but smooth, fresh, glowing skin.  

Now, wanna see week two results?  Thought so.

After two weeks of using the Clarisonic Plus Cleansing System

I know, right?  How much better does that chin look?!?  Still needs some concealer, but waaay less than I was having to use.  

Curious about how it performs in the shower now?  I have to admit that I'm not quite as sold on it for body, but part of that may have to do with my neverending ability to forget to grab it from the sink counter to take it with me to the shower.  Since the first thing I thought of when I found out you could use this gadget in the shower (after getting out all of the inappropriate jokes) was 'maybe it will help my awful speckly upper arms', I figured that would be my primary test area.  I wasn't expecting any miracles after this long of living with them, and unfortunately, I didn't exactly get one, BUT I do think they have improved a little at least.  You can check out the results below if you promise you won't shrink back in disgust.

Before Clarisonic

After Clarisonic

  
Not sure if you can really even tell a difference from the pictures, but I think they do feel a little smoother.  I'm sure this would be even more evident in photos if I could remember to bring the brush to the shower with me more often.  Oh, and I also LOVE using the Clarisonic on my back and shoulders, but that just seemed too difficult to photograph properly.


So there you have it.  In a nutshell, I don't ever want to go back to 'normal' facial cleansing at all.  I truly enjoy the feeling and results of the product waaay too much to turn back now (and the cleansers supplied with the starter kit are fab too).  I think if I could change one thing about the cleansing system at this point, it would probably be just to have an extra one devoted solely to my shower area so I could stop having to jump back out to grab it from the sink.  I'm sure some of you think I should just work on my memory, but then what fun would that be?!?

Clarisonic Challenge Kick-Off and a Coupon Code for 20% Off

After taking a minute to get all of the giggles out of my system from my initial Clarisonic post the other day, I couldn't wait to give this new gadget a try.  I mean, who wouldn't be just a bit curious as to what the results were going to be with a corporate product description that reads like it might be found in an adults only section?!?  Well, now I know why they might be pushing that comparison, because after trying it just once, this thing seems like it might be capable of doing some pretty awesome things ... FOR YOUR COMPLEXION.  

The Clarisonic Plus, which I received through the Vogue Influencers Network, comes packaged with a facial attachment, body attachment, universal charger, three different cleansers (specific to different skin types), and a body scrub.  It also comes with a very descriptive instruction manual that specifies where and how to use everything. 

It does not, however, come with a third hand which might have been helpful with my first usage attempt.  Needless to say, it was not the most graceful process I've ever had, but I was also dealing with some other variables including not having my contact lenses in at the time.  (Note: If you wear glasses/contacts, please read the instructions and do a 'dry run' first until you know what the heck it is you're doing, also have all items you'll need located so you don't end up running around blindly with a soap trail behind you).


Once I had navigated through things a little better, and was actually able to get a feel for how the process was supposed to flow going forward, I had time to inspect my face again, and was almost taken aback by the initial results.  This cleansing tool seems to be the equivalent of a basic facial from what I can tell - really.  First of all, my face felt so clean, and was so smooth just from that one (turbulent) use, and any of the flakiness that I usually seem to have on the sides of my nose were gone.  Seriously, the closest thing I can compare it to was the last facial I had a a spa (before they put all of the serums and stuff on).  I obviously don't look 10 years younger now, and still need my 'can't live without it' concealer/brightener, but I'm really looking forward to putting this face & body brush to the test to (all giggles aside) see what it can really do.


I've already started taking pictures, so watch out for before and after shots over the next few weeks.  Wouldn't it be great to actually see an improvement?  I know I would LOVE to look and feel like I've had a facial every day.  Oh, and if you're interested, it's still not too late to take the 'Clarisonic Challenge' right along with me.  You can get 20% off all Clarisonic products at http://www.clarisonic.com by using coupon code "VogMag" on orders of $149 or more (effective 7/14/11 - 7/29/11, 11:59PDT).


Ciao for now!  

Clarisonic Cleansing System: For All of the Dirty Girls (and Boys) Out There. Plus a Coupon Code for 20% Off!

Oh Vogue Influencer Network, how lovely you are .... I think.  Always ahead of the curve with the latest and greatest in beauty, fashion, exclusive events, and ... vibrating body cleansers?!?!?  Yep, that's right.  My current task is to try out the Clarisonic Plus Skin Cleansing System, or as they call it, "Take the Clarisonic Challenge", and experience the "sonic difference."  Have you ever heard of this new gadget (and are you drawing the same parallels I am?), because I don't recall hearing anything about a new battery charged body brush that isn't sold to anyone under 18; and to be honest, I'm not really sure whether I should be slightly frightened, or consider it my new best friend.  Either way, the box showed up on my doorstep today, and I suppose I am going to be trying it over the next few weeks, so I can ... er, share my experiences with you while trying not to put quotes around everything that comes across like a double entendre.  


So far, I have read that this targeted cleaning pistol (hehe) is supposed to use sonic technology - I assume this means electricity/power - to "gently, yet thoroughly, cleanse 6X better than using your hands alone" (tee hee).  By removing more dirt, oil and makeup, creams and serums are able to work more effectively.    


Oh, and to make sure everyone's needs are covered, there are 3 different varieties available:  


1. The Clarisonic PLUS (which I will be trying out) -- With three speeds and a body mode, the PLUS is ideal for cleansing the face and areas of the body needing extra attention (tee hee hee). 



2.  The Clarisonic Mia Mini -- Available in a variety of colors, Mia pairs powerful sonic cleansing benefits with a single-speed, compact design. 




3. The Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System -- A palm-sized device, Opal uses a micro-massage motion to infuse serum more thoroughly than manual application for younger looking eyes. (Oh right, eyes. Yes, that's exactly where I thought that was going).


Any questions?  Good, then I'll just be keeping you posted on my results.


Now that I've gotten through that, the other important thing I have to tell you is that you can try these products our for yourself!  For a limited time, you can save 20% on all Clarisonic products at: http://www.clarisonic.com by using coupon code "VogMag" on orders of $149 or more.  (Offer is effective 7/14/11 through 7/24/11 11:50PDT).  So, why leave all the fun to me?  Go grab one for yourself and create a"sonic experience" of your own!     

A Vogue Influencer Network Hookup Just For You

You've heard it first, seen it first, and gotten the lowdown first from the Vogue Influencer Network right here from me, and now it's your turn.  If you've wondered how you too could become a Vogue Influencer, here is your chance!  Just click here to take a questionnaire to see if you'll be picked to be the next to know about and share just-launched fashion and beauty collections, industry events, and exclusive product samples.  Good luck!

Hump Day Giveaway!! Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Sugar Scrub

I don't know about you, but I am already fed up with this week, and have been feeling stressed out for about the past month.  In an attempt to keep my outlook rosy, and not be a Debbie-Downer I've been seeking solace in the little things and have found myself again having a crush on my newest Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Stress Relief Sugar Scrub.  You may remember that this lovely tub of scrub made my 'Favorite Five' January post for its moisturizing, exfoliating, fragrant goodness.  At that point I had tried the Lavender Vanilla and was moving on to the Vanilla Verbena.  Today I opened my new jar of Tranquil Mint (as the label says, for 'mental fatigue'), and truly loved the short shower break from the chaos outside.  I'm hoping next time to try the Eucalyptus Spearmint, but they were seriously backordered when I visited the store -- guess that means it's definitely one to try, huh?

While I'm waiting on the Eucalyptus Spearmint to come in though, I'm quite happy with my Tranquil Mint.  So happy that I thought about how I'd like to help reduce someone else's stress out there, and figured I would spread the love and do my very first giveaway!  If you leave a comment telling me what your biggest stressor is right now, and which scent you would use to combat it (you can view the available scents by clicking HERE), you're name will go into the running to receive a free Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy Body Scrub of your selected scent.  The giveaway is open until 12pm EST 4/22/11, so don't delay.  I will be contacting the winner on Friday 4/22.  Oh, and if you're not already a 'Follower' be sure to click the button at the right to keep up with any future giveaways!
  
Good luck!!

 

Abracadabra! Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Resurfacer With Dragon's Blood

So really what is there to say about a product that has 'Dragon's Blood' as one of the primary active ingredients?  I mean, it's almost kind of a put-off to try using something on your body once you hear that it has any kind of blood in it, and the 'laser-free' description used to reassure you that this is a gentle serum is all but lost by conjuring up all sorts of images of fire-breathing dragons.  That brings us, of course, to the automatic leap of questioning the validity of  the product's claims, as you pause to realize that not only is there blood, but it's the blood of a mythical creature.  Right off the bat, we are faced with a product that seemingly calls to mind images of all sorts of unpleasantness - bloody dragons breathing fire on your skin to achieve imaginary results.  Right, so all I could do was assume that Peter Thomas Roth must have known a dragon-fighting wizard who shared a potion with him that was going to improve my skin - why ever else would wizards spend all of that time conjuring, if not to allow one access to the fountain of youth?!?

In my opinion, it's really difficult to provide true feedback on what a product does or doesn't do unless you have been using it for a month or more (or you have a horrible unfortunate reaction to it).  Because I didn't have the luxury of a lengthy turnaround time to provide you with my results, when I received my full-sized sample of the Laser-Free Resurfacer, compliments of Sephora through the Vogue Influencers Network, I decided that I would not only try this on my face, but would also do a trial on my hands so I would be able to examine my skin up close for anything that might look like a change.

The first thing you notice about this product is it's deep shade of red.  I'm told by the description, that this is from the Dragon's Blood, which in this case is actually a red resin that is derived from certain plants and not the life force behind the imaginary, scaled, fire-breathing beast that we have all grown so fond.

Once the serum is massaged in, the red color seems to blend right in to the skin, and if anything just adds the slightest hint of a sheer healthy tone.  There is also a mild fruit-like aroma to the serum that may or may not bother some, which seems to fade after a minute or two.  Aside from that, application was business as usual - no stinging, burning, or otherwise fantastical wizard-like abracadabra.

After using this for a little over two weeks, I certainly haven't turned into a toad, but I unfortunately don't have any results to share with you that I could capture on camera.  With the naked eye, I can tell you that  I am able to see a slight difference between my two hands, which is a little surprising as I had zero expectations given the short turnaround for usage.  The hand that I have been treating with the Resurfacer does appear to be more even-toned, holding moisture a LOT better, and seems less crepey.  I've also noticed that my pores do appear visibly smaller on the treated hand as well.

All in all, I would have to say to say to all of the wizards out there still trying to concoct a 'fountain of youth' potion that they are still in business when it boils down to finding something to provide the instant gratification for a youthful appearance (short of surgical procedures or a miracle).  If you're looking for something that does seem to provide subtle improvement over a period of time, and still sounds pretty cool too, then this little bottle of magic might just be for you.

Beauty and the Beach: Couture Color Pequi Oil Hair Treatment

Ahhhh ... the warm sunshine, the gentle breeze, the sound of the surf, and the light scent of coconut wafting to meet you as you breathe deep to take it all in.  Maybe I've been a little 'vacation challenged' the past few, but that was my first impression of the 'Couture Color Pequi Oil Hair Treatment' sample bottle I received from the Sephora Hot Now List (courtesy of the Vogue Influencer Network) before even using it on my hair.  I'm assuming it was the Pequi fruit that I was smelling and not coconuts.  Though on second thought, maybe not - does anyone out there know what a Pequi fruit smells like?  At any rate whatever I am actually smelling comes across as coconut-y, which always makes me think of sunblock or tanning oil and a beach.  A private tropical beach ... with white sand, crystal clear water, and les garcons bringing me fruity drinks ... while a I relax the day away under a large umbrella with a mysterious floppy hat and large sunglasses on.  Oh, those were the days (just humor me here a little bit and let me have my dramatic moment of longing, thank you).

Anyway, I digress.  I suppose the one thing to keep in mind about this tropical smelling hair oil, is that it is not a styling product, but is in fact, a hair TREATMENT (as in, what you probably think I need to look into after going on and on above about far away beaches).  Though I read the label on the bottle and everything on the box it came in, I think somewhere in the back of my mind I was still expecting a styling product, and because of this, was initially a little lost as to what affect it was supposed to have had on my hair after the first use.  After grappling with this problem for a few, I then realized the real deal and noticed what it actually does for my hair instead of what it wasn't doing.

I have been using one of those hair serums that smooths, seals, and makes all things shiny, but also has a tendency to work as a light styling aid as well (which I think is where I was drawing the comparison).  As far as I can tell, this old standby basically works as a 'hair band-aid' by covering up all of the damage instead of correcting it.  It also has a very specific usage amount that you must not go over if you don't want to look like a scraggly wet greased cat.  That said, the second thing I noticed about the Pequi Oil Treatment, was that it was super lightweight - I actually used it before shampoo, after shampoo, and before styling with no heavy greasy weighed-down outcome.  (As a side note, I tend to have fine, thick hair with a natural wave to it that I usually wash every other day.  I can push it one day longer if I need to, though it does start to get a little oily for me on that 3rd day).  Also, as advertised my mop was nice and soft and had a smooth healthy shine to it.  Though I still do feel the need for a touch of a finishing product out of habit, I don't know that I necessarily need one for my daytime style since my hair seems smooth without feeling greasy, soft, and with no visible split ends.  I also haven't noticed any product build-up at all to this point, which can be a problem with other oils or serums used for shine.  I'm interested to see how my 'naked' hair may or may not improve with continued use.

Overall, I think once I readjusted my expectations of what the product was supposed to do as a treatment and not as a styling tool, I am really enjoying the results.  It's also nice to know that my hair is being protected by the alcohol-free formula with antioxidants, Vitamins A&E, and proteins.  After the drying effects of the mid-atlantic winter, I'm sure my hair probably appreciates the pampering.  Actually, I'm sure after the torture we all put our hair through, there are a lot of reasons our locks could use a little extra pampering.  Do you know when I really think this would be perfect time to use though?  After a day at the beach ... a private tropical beach ... with white sand, crystal clear water, and les garcons bringing you fruity drinks.  Sigh.

Josie Maran Argan Matchmaker Serum Foundation: One Shade Fits Most

Have you ever gotten a "One Size Fits All" t-shirt, and wondered how it could fit you, AND fit everyone else in the world that is a completely different shape and size than you?    Somehow, when you try it on though, it looks great on you.  And then when your friend tries in on, it looks great on him or her as well.  And then, there's that one person that, well ... it just doesn't look as great on.  Well, I believe I was that one person with this foundation.

I really wanted to like this.  Besides the fact that it just sounds space-age cool, after questing years for a foundation that is an exact match to my ghostly pallor (I usually wear a .5 foundation on a scale or 1-10 and sometimes that is too dark), I truly wanted the self-adjusting feature to work for me.  When I received my sample bottle from Sephora (through the Vogue Influencer Network), I was so anxious to see if I had finally found the answer to all of my foundation problems that I promptly washed my face and with baited breathe, gave it a go.

This is what happened.

Yikes, right?  Yeah, not so good.  I'm not sure whether the foundation color, my skin tone, or the triple chin I had to create in order to get this picture is the most frightening.  Needless to say, I could not even wear this around for a day just to get a feel for the wearability of the product.  Kind of sad, but not super surprising.  I suppose that's why I find myself back using same cosmetic brand for my foundation year after year.

As it turns out, just when you thought this little review couldn't possibly have a happy ending though, it really does.  Knowing full well that I am in the minority when it comes to luck with foundation (after years in the industry and tests of multiple brands and shades, I found maybe 2 or 3 foundations that were actually passable for me to wear in the daylight), I decided I needed to find a few more faces to try it out in order to get a more accurate review, and asked two lovely ladies at Salon 604 to give it a try and report back.  Their results not only sounded better, they looked better too (thank goodness)!

Here is the report back from the salon trials.

   The color matched my skin tone perfectly! It was cool how it went on white, and then changed to    match my complexion, though I wonder if it was just coincidence that it matched or if it actually does what it says! The argan oil makes it feel luxurious and very moisturizing, but I have oily skin so after about an hour my face felt pretty greasy. The coverage was a little light and sheer for me as I usually like something heavier.  I have a feeling someone who prefers a lighter foundation and tends to have slightly drier skin will like it a lot.

 LOVED the foundation!  My skin looked radiant! I loved the moisture in the foundation, and the coverage was perfect.  Wearing it again today!

So, in summary it seems that if you prefer a sheer coverage, tend toward the drier side, and are not the color of paste then you might have just discovered your new foundation! 

Hourglass Aura Sheer Cheek Stain: Way to Glow!

Just got my latest free sample product from the Sephora Hot Now list courtesy of the Vogue Network, and I love it!  Seriously, this new Aura blush from Hourglass makes me happy.  I received the 'Petal' shade (a peachy pink, though it also comes in a plum shade and more blue-pink shade too), and am now totally ready to rock this spring's pretty blush trend.  It makes you look great in seconds flat, is portable, and is so super versatile that it makes me wonder why I didn't know about this until now.

The formula, which is termed a 'stain', is a fabulously lightweight sheer gel/cream hybrid with a gorgeous sheen to it.  Besides this shade itself being a wonderful wake-up for winter skin, the sheen imparts what looks like a wonderfully natural glow.  Depending on how much you apply, it can go from a sheer wash of color for day to a more intense, dramatic hue for evening and beyond.

There's not much to explain in the way of application because it's as easy as twisting the bottom a few clicks and then smoothing on this great gel/cream "stain" that appears on the fabric applicator - a huge change for me instead of using a powder blush with a separate brush.

Once on,  you can blend down the edges with your fingertips a little if you need to, but if you're using a light application you probably don't even need to do that.  On top of the simple, one-step application to your cheeks, you can use this on your lids and also dab some on your lips for a subtle healthy glow on those days you don't have time to (or don't want to) make much fuss over your makeup.  Below, is an example of how using the cheek stain for an all-over color wash works.  (Keep in mind that my uber-fair complexion usually looks completely washed out without any outside help).

Light application on cheeks & eyelids

Heavier application on cheeks, lips & eyelids

This complete look was accomplished in almost no time flat using only a little foundation, the Hourglass Aura Cheek Stain in 'Petal', Buxom Smoky Eye Stick in 'Black Pistol' (still rockin it!), and some mascara.  Pretty cool for a natural look, no?  I don't know about you, but I'll take anything that helps me out this much in a matter of seconds.