First, the Metallic Shadow Duos are not only budget friendly they are packed with pigment power for an ultimate color pay-off. Typically I find a lot of drugstore makeup brands have very little pigment therefore you have to pack on the product for the color to show up. The L’Oreal HIP line has combined a winning combination of value and product. These duo packs have even taken the guesswork out of color theory by pairing up colors that are complimentary in each shadow compact. They come in five shade pairings: Gilded, Magnetic, Gunmetal, Platinum, and Sculpted and retail for just $7.00 for each set!

The HIP High Intensity Pigments Jelly Balms are equally as nice with a beautiful sheer color pay-off and a soft, dewy finish. My brides love these because this product leaves their lips conditioned and moist, they are simple to apply alone or over a lipstick shade and, most importantly, they are kissable too! The Balms are available in six sheer shades: Luscious, Savory, Succulent, Plush, Ripe, and Delectable and retail for just $9.00 each. L’Oreal, thank you for making a budget-friendly product with unbeatable quality – any makeup artist’s dream! To check out these and other L’Oreal products, visit www.lorealparis.com.

However, my jealousy wore off a little when Paul returned with some product samples. The first product I tried was 3LAB WW Eye Cream.

3LAB, a brand that claims to be harnessing “the advanced science of perfecting your skin,” and the makers of “h” serum, has developed WW Eye Cream to battle UV damage, smooth wrinkles, erase bags under the eyes, suppress melanin production in the delicate eye area, and improve skin tone and texture.

I couldn’t wait to see how 3LAB’s WW Eye Cream would work for me, but before trying it though, I had to do some research. I’ve read a lot of reviews about 3LAB WW Eye Cream. Is there really one product that works to firm your skin, stimulate circulation, and even skin tone?

3LAB was developed by a renowned dermatologist and two chemists with cutting-edge science on their side. WW Eye Cream contains 3LAB’s patented Nano-Claire GY, as well as Niacinamide and Portulaca Extract.

Nano-Claire GY, is a proprietary formula that 3LAB describes as a “bio-engineered growth hormone material” which reduces the signs of wrinkles in aging skin at the cellular level.

The next ingredient, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), “inhibits melanin production and combats UV damage and dark circles.” Combats UV damage and dark circles? Did they make this just for me?

Lastly, “Portulaca Extract, a powerful anti-inflammatory, helps to erase under eye bags and improve skin texture.” With my late nights at grad school, the thought of reducing under eye puffiness sounds like magic!

Now, if you’ve been reading, you may also know that I have very sensitive skin and a lot of allergies. I first look for strong perfumes, because this is a sure sign it will aggravate my skin. WW Eye Cream passes the sniff test (I don’t think there’s any odor whatsoever).

Also, keep in mind that trying new products may require a patch test, especially if you know your skin is sensitive. My doctor has me test in an inconspicuous spot. Check with yours before trying it in any area where your skin may be sensitive. After it passed the sniff test, I went for the patch test. No offensive odors and no allergic reactions.

This is by far the most luxurious and well, creamiest, eye cream I have ever used. I dabbed it on in small dabs around my eyes. I could hardly believe how smoothly it went over my skin. I tried it the first time before bed, and the next morning when I was getting ready, I used it again. In just days, I already see an improvement in my dark circles, and under eye puffiness. My eyes truly look brighter and younger.

With results this good, I am stretching my sample size for as long as I can!

3LAB products can be purchased online at eCosmeticWorld.com, or in stores and online at Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys.

In the past, my problematic skin has led me to purchase a vast amount of products claiming to be the absolute best, the solution to all of my skin problems. I’ve tried both drugstore brands and luxury brands, products ranging from as affordable as $5.99 to a less than affordable $59.99. I have caked my face in all kinds of outrageous extracts and substances. Once I even bought mud in a jar (yes, MUD in a jar!) – but not just any mud. It was straight out of the Dead Sea and the removal process involved a special magnet that I had to swipe across my face. Besides being not at all pleasant, my wallet and face were not impressed.

When I learned about Vichy’s Aqualia Thermal products, my interest was piqued. Vichy holds a strong and long-standing reputation and it’s high-end without being astonishingly expensive. Certainly, it’s not the most affordable in the market but I was curious enough to find out if the price was worth the results.

The first product I sampled was Vichy’s Aqualia Thermal Eyes.

Being 30 years old means 8-10 hours of sleep is a thing of the very distant past. I’m lucky if I can squeeze in 6 hours of solid sleep. Any less results in tired, puffy, dark circles under my eyes. Although I wouldn’t go as far as to say that I resemble an extra from the movie Dawn of The Dead, I’m at least halfway there!

Aqualia Thermal Eyes needs to be applied twice every day. Luckily, it comes in a compact tube that fits in my makeup kit. Not only that, it’s gentle enough to use even when I’m wearing my contacts. It has a gel-like consistency that’s cool to the touch. Vichy says that this product has natural ingredients (in addition to the Thermal Spa Water) that will help de-puff, soothe and fortify the tissues.

After two weeks of consistent use, I am thrilled to report that I have had very positive results. The darkness and puffiness have subsided. My eyes look a little more lively and a touch more youthful. And although I still don’t get more than 5-6 hours of sleep, I look as well-rested as any girl who enjoys an 8-hour long beauty sleep every night.

Next up was the Aqualia Thermal Cream 24-hour Fortifying Moisturizer.

The first thing I do when I test out a new skin product is to take a nice long whiff. Anything with a strong fragrance tends to get a big “Oh, hell no!” from my skin. For us girls with sensitive skin, we know fragrance usually means a break out, itchy skin, and/or that stingy feeling. It’s generally uncomfortable. The Aqualia Thermal Cream did have a fragrance but it was subtle, fresh and even kind of pleasant. With that, I let it pass my whiff test. But when I put it on my face and lay in bed, I immediately felt a soothing sensation. It was comfortable and cool once again but I didn’t start feeling real results until about 1 week in. With continued use, my skin feels softer, hydrated and looks brighter. The only downside? After applying, you might want to wash your hands before you start playing games on your iPhone. It took almost 5 minutes for me to wipe down my slippery phone.

These Vichy Aqualia products and others are available in participating retailers or online at: www.vichyusa.com

Is that really too much to ask?

I think I’ve tried everything. From pricey salon brands to the cheapest drug store finds. I’ve even bought some at fancy department stores. Then Fashion Week came along and our own Paul Baranda visited the Sebastian event and left with some awesome goodies.

Inside the package (a beautiful black and white bag with matching tissue paper wrapping a coordinating box) was three products. One of these three was Sebastian’s Re-Shaper Hairspray, part of the new Sebastian Form Collection for total control.

“Hmmm,” I thought. “Hairspray.”

Could it really be all it says it is on the bottle? A brushable, humidity resistant, strong hold hairspray? Humdity resistant? Is that even possible? Brushable? Without FLAKES?!

Yes, yes, yes, yes, and… YES!

With my hair down and my bangs “done” I gave it a quick spray and left for work. Even with the sunroof open, my style survived. Around 3 pm, I brushed my bangs (I tend to brush them to the side all day long). Afraid to look, I braced myself for the inevitable flakes. There were none! Amazing. Seriously.

The next text was the poofy ponytail. I have no idea what to call it, but I pull back the top of my hair. I twist it and pin it and then pull the rest back into a sleek pony. Think Gwen Stefani. The only thing is, with my bangs as short as they currently are, little pieces of hair sneak out of the poof all day long! So frustrating. Here comes Re-Shaper. My hair held up all day and even passed the sunroof test.

Paul has already said “I do” to Craft Clay and Liquid Steel; and if I could marry a hairspray, Sebastians Re-Shaper would be it.

Get these Sebastian Haircare products at your nearest salon.

• Metallic Iced Mauve eye shadow: This shade is creamy and subtle and can easily coordinate with anything in your closet.
• Cocoa Mauve Ink Long Wear gel eyeliner: Rich and precise, this liner gives the eyes a very distinctive pop. Best of all, it’s easy to apply and proven to last.
• Berry Mauve lip color – for a radiant lip shine that feels light but lasts long. Add a darker liner like Heather Beige for a sexier evening color. Simply apply with Bobbi Brown’s mini brush set and you’re ready to shine!
• For classic, rosy cheeks, the collection features Sand Pink blush.

Carry your new look in a sleek, mauve-lined case with a convenient side pocket.

The limited edition palette and other Bobbi Brown Cosmetics are available in stores or online at www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

At 19 years old, Melody Gardot was struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle in her hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The near-fatal accident left her with a shattered pelvis and extreme sensitivity to light. Doctors urged her to turn to music for therapy. Fast-forward to today and Melody Gardot, walking with a cane and sporting Burberry shades, is now signed with Universal, touring the world, and recording her second album.

When I received the phone call to work with Melody in Paris, I immediately turned to Bobbi Brown and her team to assist me with product selection for Melody. Gardot’s personal makeup style is dramatic liquid liner and smoky eyes. I felt keeping her personal style was key for her album cover and promotional materials.

Below is how I achieved her album look, focused on the eyes, step-by-step using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics that were rushed directly to my hotel in Paris:

1. Shimmering Nudes Palette:
   This limited edition palette includes a combination of Metallic and soft, pearlized Shimmer Wash Eye Shadows along with Espresso Eye Shadow for added smoke and drama.
   To achieve Melody’s smoky eyes, I started off with Nude Spice Metal Eye Shadow on the lid. After gently sweeping a highlight under the brow, I used a blend of Naked Eye Shadow and Nude Glow Metallic Eye Shadow. For contour, smoke, and drama around the eyes, I started in the outer corner of the eyes and blended through the contour of the eye with Espresso Eye Shadow.
2. Long-Wear Gel Eye Liner in Black Ink:
   Keeping Melody’s personal style was important to me so, following suit with her signature old Hollywood flare, I used Bobbi’s Long-Wear Gel Eye Liner in Black Ink to perfectly sketch a wing-tip that dramatically swooped along the top lash line.
   Stiles Makeup Tip: When the look calls for smoky, I don’t like to have harsh lines. Even though the top eye liner called for drama, I still wanted to soften it just a bit. Blending Bobbi Brown’s Espresso Eye Shadow on top of the Long-Wear Gel Eye Liner did the trick! I now had a dramatic eye look that read well for photography!
3. Metallic Eye Shadow in Rockstar:
   My favorite touch to any makeup look is a soft highlight in the inner corner of the eyes. Using Metallic Eye Shadow in Rockstar (a fitting name!) with an eye shadow brush, I started from the inner corners and dragged the shadow just below the bottom lash line stopping below the tear duct.
4. Lash Glamour Lengthening Mascara in Smoke:
   For the long shoot days out in the environment, waterproof mascara was necessary for completing this look. The Lash Glamour Lengthening Mascara in Smoke was the perfect mascara that gave Melody length and curl to her lashes completing her glamorous look.
   The products Bobbi Brown Cosmetics provided were perfect for the look Melody and I wanted to achieve for her album shoot. The look lasted more than 12 hours as we went from location to location within Paris for her photo shoot. The Long-Wear Gel Eye Liner and Lash Glamour Lengthening Mascara proved not only to be waterproof but smudge-proof as well!

Melody’s album with the shots from Paris is due to launch early next year. Check back for the final pictures from the shoot.

Until then, check out my behind-the-scenes shots from Melody Gardot’s album shoot in Paris, including makeup by me and products courtesy of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics!

Photos: Victoria Stiles & bobbibrowncosmetics.com

Make me look younger.

Now, don’t be fooled by my intro. On average, I look about 26. In fact, no one guesses any higher than 27, ever – and that is usually because they saw the photos of my niece and nephew, 5 years and 6 months respectively, on my desk and assumed they were little mini Jennifer Longs. (But I digress; I love the little people in my life.)

The moral of the story MIGHT BE that I started paying attention to the effects that sun and other environmental elements have on my skin at a relatively young age. So the first time I dipped a finger into something you might call “wrinkle cream” I was barely more than 24.

Needless to say, I was excited when Beyond Beauty Basics had the opportunity to try ZO Skin Health’s Anti-Aging products from Dr. Zein Obagi of Beverly Hills! (Woo hoo!)

My first impression of the products, based on packing and such, was just WOW. But would is pass the smell test? You sensitive skin girls may understand where I am coming from. I watch out for lotions, creams, cleansers, toners, etc., with strong fragrances because they usually mean Breakout City for me. But what little scent this product has was pleasant and I decided first to do a patch test.

After passing the patch test, I was ready to go!

Exfoliating Cleanser

I am probably what you’d call an exfoliating junkie. I’ve got everything for wrinkles, blackheads, acne (I cannot even remember the last time I even had acne!), dry skin, and the list goes on. What I have learned from all of my trials with exfoliation products is this: there is a gentle balance. You don’t want an exfoliation product that doesn’t exfoliate and you don’t want one that leaves your skin red and raw (my teen years saw a lot of these).

The exfoliator is pretty gentle, not too gentle per say, but sensitive skin girls like me appreciate it. Just scrubby enough to make your face feel nice and clean but not so scrubby that you look like you’ve had a chemical peel.

Growth Factor Serum

I am a marketer’s dream. I love anything called serum because it sounds so clinical and effective. However, some of my forays into skin care have left me wary. I want to repair the damage from the sun and environmental stressors, but um… how do I say this delicately? Oh yeah, I’M DELICATE! I don’t want to break out in the trial and error process.

I loved this as soon as I cracked open the jar. Decidedly colorless and scentless, it smoothed onto my skin like nothing else. It even left my fingertips feeling soft and beautiful. Just a tiny little bit goes a long way.

Dr. Obagi, my forehead thanks you. Those fine lines disappeared. It looks like I can skip the Botox I was going to treat myself with for my thirtieth and buy myself those Louboutins I’ve had my eye on.

Radical Night Repair

Radical repair sounds like just what I needed. Hey, I’ve been driving a convertible for ten years and I like Caribbean vacations. I don’t want to look my age and I certainly don’t want to look older. I need something that works with my lifestyle to keep me looking young. Besides, I like younger guys, too (tee hee).

Before trying, I checked Dr. Obagi’s site. It says this product addresses those deep lines, wrinkles, dark spots (sun spots, you sun-worshippers!), loss of radiance, texture and firmness. So basically, all of my problems!

This product contains a high concentration of Retinol – boasting 10 times the industry average, but in a time-release formula. It also contains Vitamins and anti-oxidants known to benefit the skin like Vitamin C and E and Coenzyme Q-10. It also contains Crithmum Maritimum, a Marine Extract that “reduces free radicals and improves cellular function while controlling sebum to restore overall skin health;” and Bisabolol, a calming botanical that reduces inflammation.

The verdict?

Those age spots (doesn’t “freckles” sound about a billion times cuter?) are disappearing. My complexion has taken on a more even tone, and is free of blemishes. The only thing to note is that my skin seems slightly paler than it has at the end of summers past, but I credit that not only to evening out my skin tone, but to the next product: the sunscreen!

Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30 (UVA/UVB Protection)

Sunscreen is my new best friend. I seriously only started using it a few years ago after I went for my first professional facial and saw all those cute “freckles” were actually age spots. Ugh.

It is so hard to pick a sunscreen for your face. It needs to work while NOT causing breakouts, drying out your skin, OR leaving a gross oily residue. Plus with sensitive skin, I am overly cautious. One day with the wrong product and I could end up looking like a hormonal teenage boy. I love Dr. Obagi’s because it goes on nice and smooth and it is slightly tinted. It’s a perfect makeup primer for all over your face. The best is, it actually works. It not only helps my makeup set perfectly but I also wore it everyday without makeup for eight days in sunny, tropical, Caribbean Turks and Caicos.

No extra “freckles,” no peeling, no dry spots.

Now that’s a vacation!

photo: Amanda Picone

If you are looking for an eye cream, those words sound like music to the ears, right? Well, you can believe them. I have seen the results for myself!

I gave a friend of mine the Intensive Wrinkle Reducer for Eyes because she had expressed that all of her lack of sleep and daily stress was beginning to show. Now, just to let you know, she is in her late thirties and is a stay-at-home-wife and mom of four children with ages ranging from 3-8. I personally always think she looks great, but we all know our own faces and when things aren’t looking so good, we go looking for help. I had just received this product at the Total Beauty Summit, and I offered to give it to her along with the Intensive Wrinkle Reducer face cream.

This was back in may, and I am happy to report, the fine lines around her eyes have softened tremendously, and her eyes look refreshed. She is so happy with the results and loves the fact that very little goes a long way.

Murad Intensive Wrinkle Reducer for Eyes is made with Dr. Murad’s latest beauty innovation, Durian Cell Reform.  This is a proprietary blend of durian and glycolic acid. Durian is an Asian super fruit and has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine. It is now featured exclusively in Murad’s Age Reform Intensives. Find out more about the entire Age Reform Intensives line at murad.com.

xo
Monique - beauty girl musings

Quinn Lipstick from Thi Cosmetics $19.00
www.thicosmetics.com

Rated 9.5 by TotalBeauty.com Editor Charli Schuler

It’s easy to see why Marco Color Anti-Frizz Leave-In Conditioner with Collagen Color Guard is hairstylist Marco Pelusi’s signature product. Just one or two pumps miraculously detangle knots and tame frizz on all hair types. …More at Total Beauty

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