Make Over Your Makeup Bag at Sephora

Make over your makeup bag this spring…only at Sephora!

Spring has arrived…and so has spring beauty. Spring cleaning means out with the old, in with the new – new beauty that is! Get a fresh new look and give yourself a makeover with the hottest and the latest. From color palettes to skincare essentials, Sephora has it all. Stop by to have one of their friendly specialists give you a consultation that will have you springing towards the right direction.

I made a visit to my local Sephora recently and got some good stuff. Here are some other ideas to revive your look for less with the season’s freshest finds:

Sephora ColorPlay Palette ($22 a $120 value!) The color star of spring! Save big with an all-in-one ensemble featuring 36 shadows, 12 glosses, 3 blushes and 1 bronzer, spring beauty never looked so pretty.

Sephora PURE Palette ($36) – Get gorgeous…naturally! This green makeup palette features six eye-mazing shadows and a blush in a chic eco-friendly case.

Marc Jacobs Splash - Cucumber ($68) – Beauty-full scents are in full bloom! This crisp, cool fragrance of cucumber will leave you feeling clean and rejuvenated.

Korres Materia Herba Moisturizing Cream Oily to Combination Skin ($15) – Let your flawless skin flourish with this all-natural lightweight moisturizer that helps control oil while regulating skin hydration.

Urban Decay Pocket Rocket Lip Gloss ($19) – Turn heads, literally! This highly pigmented gloss releases pheromones with each application to enhance mood and attraction!

Josie Maran Earth Day Essentials Green-On-The-Go Kit ($48 a $98 value!) – Give your makeup a healthy jumpstart with this all-natural kit packed with a lip gloss, mascara, eyeliner, blush and organic argan oil for glowing skin!

When Worlds Collide...

I have an older sister. Growing up, I was the girly-girl younger one, and my older sister was more the tom boy. She has always been a huge fan of Star Wars, Star Trek, and almost all things Sci-Fi. Me? Yeah, not so much. I was forced to attend a Star Trek convention with my sister and saw all sorts of people dressed up like Klingons and other non-humans. It was bizarre. I appreciated the strangeness of it all even though I am not a fan.

Well, I saw this article from the Seattle Times and chuckled to myself. It looks like the world of Star Trek and the beauty world (the perfume world, specifically) have collided together. There must be a warp in the space-time continuum.

For your reading pleasure, I give you information about the upcoming Star Trek line of fine fragrances:

"Star Trek" fragrances boldly go where no cologne has gone before
By John Lendman, Chicago Tribune

The world of fragrance is about to boldly go where few have ventured before: the Trekosphere.

Hoping to profit from the May 8 release of J.J. Abrams' new Star Trek film, chronicling the beginnings of Captain James T. Kirk and the USS Enterprise, Maryland-based Genki Wear will release three Star Trek-themed scents on April 24.

John McGonigle, president of Genki, said the two men's colognes and one women's perfume will retail for about $30.

Soon, Trekkies will be able to channel their inner Starfleet commander — or inner William Shatner — with "Tiberius," based on Kirk's character. The scent which carries the tag line "Boldly Go," is described by Genki Wear as having a "warm vanilla, white musk and sandalwood" base.

For those living like the next workday could be their last, there's "Red Shirt." This cologne, with the tag line, "Because tomorrow may never come," is in honor of the unnamed Enterprise officers who don't typically survive past the TV show's first scene. It's described as having a "leather and gray musk" aroma.

But it's the "Pon Farr" perfume that may require a double take. That's right, it's for the ladies. Perhaps a great gift for mom for letting you crash in the basement for 50-some-odd years? Maybe not. It actually refers to the Vulcan mating ritual which occurs every seven years. So maybe this one's only for special occasions?

John Tenuto, merchandise editor of TrekMovie.com, the largest independent Star Trek news site, said fans have responded positively to the fragrances.

But some Trekkies still have doubts.

"I predict incredibly stinky Trek conventions in the near future," one online comment said.

Others simply made fun of the idea: "No Worf scent? You know, peaty, with a hint of lilac."

Stimulating the Economy

Maybe it's the bad economy, maybe I've been in a funk....whatever, but I haven't been shopping as much as normal. Now, that is not a bad thing, but I realized that I hadn't taken a trip to Sephora in quite some time.

Well, this weekend I made my first visit to Sephora this year and spent lots of time (and money) wandering around, checking out all the lovely goodies. I'm sure I'll be blogging about some of these things later, but here's what spent my money on this weekend:

• Benefit's Girls Night In Kit: a fun zipper bag containing a lipstick, two cream eye shadows, a makeup brush, and cute mannequin magnets, $48.
• Dior Iconic Look Diva to Go Kit: this comes with a nice case, a tube of mascara, and a small-sized high shine lipstick, $27.
• Cargo blu-ray High Definition Lip Gloss: this has something called "Timestrip" technology that I'll be telling you about soon, $24.
• Clean Shower Fresh: a rollerball of perfume to go, $22.
• Sephora Brand Slim Pink Atomizer: what I originally came in for! Add your favorite perfume and viola, you have an instant travel-size of your favorite scent, $10.
• Fekkai Dry Shampoo: since I spent so much money, I got a free trial of this product. I've been dying to try it for ages now, and I've mentioned it a few times on my site...now I get my chance without spending any money. Nice!

Like I said, I'm going to blog these items in no time. I forgot how fun it can be to get a black and white Sephora bag filled with new goodies to try out!

Beauty Product of the Week: Tone Enhancing Ribbons

What is it? Olay's Body Wash Plus Tone Enhancing Ribbons "is the only body wash with an actual ribbon of mineral shimmer. It helps transform skin to the rich, lustrous tone it deserves. It contains tiny interference pigments which help to diffuse light, giving skin the appearance of a more even, radiant sheen. The cleansing ribbon and moisturizing mineral ribbon interact to provide a luxurious shower experience that results in hydrated skin and a beautiful, soft sheen without sacrificing lather." Available wherever Olay products are sold for $3.99 to $5.99, depending on size.

What did you think? I usually use soap in the shower. Yes, I know...it does make my skin dry, but I'm all about convenience. That said, I've been using Olay's Tone Enhancing Ribbons body wash for a few weeks now and my skin does feel much softer. The lather is comforting and scented with a slightly vanilla perfume. It makes me feel both clean and my skin nourished. With soap, I always feel clean but over-scrubbed! Once dried off, my skin has a subtle shimmer from the body wash without having that tacky glittered look. And my skin maintains a softness and pleasant scent out of the shower.

Final verdict? Overall, this is a very nice product, especially if you are a fan of body wash. If only I could use a body wash without having to get a shower puff, I'd be all set. Still, this body wash does everything it says it will: it makes my skin feel good and look good thanks to the subtle shimmer it provides.

New Goodies at HSN!

They're baaaack! The girls of Home Shopping Network's Faces of Beautiful You series are back at it with two new episode. And as always, they're featuring some pretty nifty products at great prices. Swing over to their website to and check out these featured products:

M. ASAM TINTED DAYCREAM
I love a good multi-tasking product. In the morning, I don't always have time to apply foundation, so this product is a huge time saver. This tinted moisturizing day cream is super quick to apply. It provides just enough moisture without being greasy, and the slight tint of the cream evens out skin tone in a snap. The day cream is lightweight and contains healthy ingredients like grape seed oil and Vitamin C. It also smells nice! Cost: $24.95.

EARTH TO SKIN CARE SUPREME EXTREME FOOT KIT
It's almost time for us to bare our feet now that the weather is (hopefully) warming up. I don't know about the rest of you, but after the winter we've had, my feet are in need of some TLC. This kit includes all sorts of fun products to make my feet sandal ready like: peppermint foot powder, cracked heel renewal, exfoliating scrub paste, and foot soak pearls. Cost: $24.95.

M. ASAM CLASSIC BEAUTY NAIL SET
Now that you've tended to your feet, don't forget to care for your hard working hands! This popular kit contains some amazing products like an easy to use cuticle care pen, a hand scrub that makes your hands feel velvety smooth, and a nourishing, non-greasy hand cream among other goodies. Cost: $29.95.

Don't forget: you can get a Faces of Beautiful You widget at their website or become a fan over on their Facebook page.

Vintage Beauty Deals!

Hi All!

I am just getting back from a blissful weekend at the beach. I'll be back soon with beauty news and reviews...I have lots to dish about!...but until I get my suitcase unpacked and my head back from the waves, here's something to check out if you're wanting to add some products to your makeup collection. Too Faced products are high quality, they're beautifully packaged, lots of fun, and they don't test on animals. This is a win-win!

Head over to their website to check out these vintage deals! (I'm a huge fan of the Naughty or Nice Set!!!)

Beauty Product of the Week: Lip Shimmer

What is it? Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer is described as, "A kiss of color and pearlized shine perk up our world famous 100% natural lip balm, while natural ingredients like vitamin E and coconut and sunflower oils moisturize and soothe your lips. Choose from 11 yummy, all natural shades: Champagne, Raisin, Merlot, Rhubarb, Watermelon, Nutmeg, Fig, Cocoa, Toffee, Guava and Papaya." Get it from drugstore.com or other drugstores for about $5.00 a tube.

What did you think? Lip Shimmer should be a perfect product. Burt's Bees regular old lip balm is both ubiquitous and cult-worthy. Everyone has at least one tube at their ready, and for good reason: it makes lips feel protected and refreshed thanks to the hint of mint. I adore tinted lip balms because it's a great multi-tasker...it provides color and protection and goes on fast. It's not fussy--which I appreciate.

For some reason, though, I don't LOVE love Lip Shimmer. I'm not exactly sure why. When it goes on it feels a little thick. The color is a bit too shimmery/metallic-y. The tube is a weird size--it's much smaller than that normal Burt's Bees, and I find my tube gets gunked up easily.

Final verdict? Sadly, I think there are better tinted lip balms on the market. I really like Burt's Bees product as a rule, but I think their Lip Shimmer is only so-so. If you're brand loyal, give it a try. If not, go pick up a tube of Alba Terra Tints instead!

Crest Whitestrips Winners!

Congrats to Claudia and Ela! You are my Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal winners! Woo-hoo! Be on the lookout for an email from me soon! To the rest of you...there's always next time.

Don't Forget to Enter!

Don't forget! I'm giving away two sets of the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal to two lucky readers. I've been using these new whitestrips and they rock! You really can wear them while living life....you can talk normally and even drink water without fearing that the whitening strips will fall off. And the best part? Peeling these babies off your teeth once time is up. It's like a peel-off mask for your teeth.

Be sure to enter by midnight Pacific time tonight (Tuesday, March 17th). And entering is a snap...just leave a comment on this post.

Good luck!

Irish Eyes are Smiling with Too Faced!

Today is St. Patty's Day! Don't forget to wear your green today. But why reserve green--one of the prettiest colors out there--for today only? Add some green to your daily eye beauty routine with these fun products from Too Faced:

Starry Eyed Liquid Liner in Obsessed Fan, $17.50: Dare to create bold, dynamic eye looks that defy the ordinary with this glittery, daring liner. It contains sparkling micro-glitter that adds impact and gives you an edge. The liner is long lasting, but also gentle since it contains soothing ingredients like peach, carrot, and cucumber extracts.

Galaxy Glam Eyeshadow in Moonbeam, $19.50: Like metallic meteors from outer space throwing sparks of light across the night sky, Galaxy Glam leaps into hyper drive to deliver star-worthy eyeshadow looks. Futuristic Italian opalescent-pigments are baked into each black domed shadow for intensity and blend together to produce a unique multi-dimensional smoky eye, light-speed ahead of any mere earthly cosmetic product. They give an innovative new twist to the classic smoky eye.

Foiled Liner in Metallic Mermaid, $16.50: The intense, silky application with moisturizing and moisture-locking ingredients make for a line that shines like platinum! The color is highly reflective and will give you luscious lids! Completely smudge-proof, the color won't transfer and stays put where you apply it.

Too Faced products are great quality and they're very cute and very fun. Give these a try for St. Patrick's Day...or any time!

St. Patty's Day Inspiration at Sephora!

Tomorrow is March 17th, St. Patrick's Day. That means that everyone in America is all of a sudden Irish. We'll be downing green beer, pinching people not wearing green, and maybe, just maybe, eating a plate of corn beef, cabbage, and boiled potatoes.

If you're looking for less obvious St. Patty's day wear, head over to Sephora! You can strike gold without digging too far into your pot of gold by stopping at Sephora for beauty-full budget-friendly essentials. Why not celebrate this day looking gorgeous and turning everyone green with envy? Score a charming look with these fabulous finds

• Kat Von D for Sephora Autograph Liner in Brass Knuckles ($16) – Paint the perfect Kat-eye with this sparkling gold liquid eyeliner.
• CK Tempting Glimmer Sheer Crème Eyeshadow in Tropical Green ($18) – A green-saturated cream eyeshadow that offers high-shine and an ultra-smooth finish.
  
• Laura Geller Lip Gloss ($16) – A gloss packed with pink and gold-flecked glimmer for luscious leprechaun lips.
  
• Sephora by OPI Nail Colour in Charge It! ($9) – This polish will have your nails glowing all day long.
• Laura Geller Line & Define in Olive ($22) – Save big with this color-coordinated liner and mascara in one.
  
• Sephora Moroccan Sunrise Pot of Gold Loose Bronzer ($22) – Add a golden glow to your pretty cheeks with this loose bronzing powder.
  
• Sephora Professionnel Platinum Bronzer Brush #48 ($35) – For a flawless finish, don’t forget the perfect bronzer brush to leave skin with an even, airbrushed complexion.

Crest Whitestrips Giveaway!

Yesterday I mentioned that I am going to whiten my teeth using brand new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal kit. Well now you can try these whitestrips out right along with me!

The good people at Crest are giving away two Crest Whitestips Advanced Seal kits to two lucky Kiss and Make-up readers. All you need to do is leave a comment on this entry by next Tuesday, March 17th. Be sure that I have a way to contact you. Winners will be drawn at random and will be announced on Wednesday, March 18th.

Good luck!

Product Preview: Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal

I haven't whitened my teeth in ages and they're looking a little...well...dingy. I normal dread whitening my teeth. The drugstore whitening strips often slip off--especially on my bottom teeth--and it's a hassle to find the time to sit, do nothing, and wait for the flimsy strips to do their job.

Crest has a new whitening product on the market, one that promises to be easier to use. It's called Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. According to Crest, these new strips allow for a secure fit to your teeth, allowing you to talk and even drink water while whitening. Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal because it doesn’t interfere with daily routines, allowing us to whiten anytime, anywhere.

Hmmm....This sounds promising!

I have a package of these strips and will start my whitening cycle tonight. I'll report back soon to let you know how it's going!

If you're interested in trying this one out for yourself, click here for more info. Be sure to let me know what you think!

Ask Lydia: Festival/Camping Makeup

Lydia,

I was wondering if you had any recommendations for how to stay pretty while camping. I just bought my tickets for the Sasquatch Music Festival, where I'll be forced to stay in a tent/not shower/feel gross for a few days. Any suggestions?

Thanks!
Simone

Hi Simone!

First, have fun at Sasquatch! I live near Seattle and have thought about going over to the Gorge to check out Sasquatch, but the prospect of being outside, camping...with all those people, sort of turns me off. I am not a camper. camping for me means staying in a B&B with a shared bathroom.

Anyway, if I were going to a multi-day music festival...or if I were actually camping...there are a few things I would take with me in order to keep looking cute. You don't want to be bogged down with products, but you do want to take care of your skin and use products that will do double duty. For me, my makeup essentials are good looking skin, a quick coat of black mascara, and a hint of color on my lips. When camping or at a festival, you don't want to do your full face, so leave your eyeliner, eye shadow, blush, concealer, etc. at home.

Here's my must have list of your situation--if anyone has anything to add, please leave a comment!

TO KEEP CLEAN:

• Boots Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes...or something similar. These wipes are great. They don't require any water or rinsing, and they make your skin feel perfectly clean. These are available from Target, but there are many other brands out there. They're a great way to wash your face with minimal effort (and no running water!)
• Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo: You can use this on days when you don't have time to wash, or when you don't have access to water or a blow dryer. It will make your hair feel and smell good, even if you're hanging out in the elements.

TO KEEP PROTECTED:

• MD Skincare Powerful Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Pads: these are awesome! Sure, this is an expensive product ($42!), but they're easy to apply and even easier to pack. Plus they provide a high level of sun protection, and that's essential at outdoor festivals or when camping.
• Some sorty of bug spray. Many people swear by Avon's Skin So Soft, but I use the ultra-toxic stuff that contains DEET, like Deep Woods Off. Use what you like, but be sure to take something with you!
  

TO STAY CUTE:

• Alba Terra Tints Natural Tinted Lip Balm, SPF 18...or something similar. These tinted lip balms will refresh your lips with their minty scent/flavor, and they'll give your lips protection from the sun...all while adding moisture and color to your lips. I love double duty products, and this is one of my favorites!
• Any sort of tinted moisturizer containing SPF, like Olay Complete Plus Ultra-Rich Tinted Moisturizer. Again, this is a double duty product--your skin will get much needed moisture, and you'll quickly even out your skin tone.
• Your favorite waterproof mascara (I like Great Lash by Maybelline). Mascara will give your eyes just enough pop with minimal time. Go for a waterproof product so it won't smudge...and don't worry about getting it off--the Boots 4 in 1 wipe can handle it!

There you go, Simone! Don't forget to stay hydrated and be sure to wear your sunglasses. Have fun watching Animal Collective, NIN, and Jane's Addiction at the Gorge!

Beauty Product of the Week: Lash Stiletto

What is it? Maybelline's Lash Stiletto mascara is "the only mascara that does for lashes what stilettos do for legs. The Grip & Extend brush grasps each lash and coats from every angle. Elastic formula stretches lashes for provocative length Pro-Vitamin B-5 formula conditions and smoothes for black-patent shine. Contact lens safe and Ophthalmologist tested. For Best Results: Sweep Grip and Extend Brush upwards from root to tip to grasp each lash and coat from every angle to achieve extreme length and shine. Continue building lashes until you reach your desired look. Do not let dry between coats. Repeat for lower lash line." Available at drugstores/big box stores for about $7.50.

What did you think? I've said it before and I'll say it again: mascara is one of the most important beauty products out there...and I think I've tried almost every kind on the market.

Lash Stiletto has a longer wand than most mascaras. The tapered design lets me get at all the lashes--the little ones in the corners and the longer ones along the outside. The mascara does not make my lashes clump together, but it does provide a great deal of length. My lashes don't appear thicker, but they do look darker and longer, which makes my eye color pop and the shape better defined.

Final verdict? Once again, Maybelline has produced a very decent mascara. I like the longer brush and the final look I get from Lash Stiletto. Not a bad edition to the Maybelline family of products.

Try It....You'll Like It!

I've been testing out an awesome skin care product for the past week+, and I must say: I am liking the results so far.

So what is it? It's Lumene's Vitamin C+ Energizing Cocktail Intensive Care, a serum that contains products like Arctic Cloudberry and cranberry seed oil. Cloudberry...ah...I love the name of that ingredient! Cloudberry! It sounds like some sort of magical Elvin-Viking fruit. I'd love to eat something called a Cloudberry!

Anyway...according to the product description, Lumene's Vitamin C+ Energizing Cocktail Intensive Care provides optimal care from nature against the first signs of aging. A quick shake and small pump of this serum not only instantly delivers softer and smoother skin, but it keeps skin flexible and prevents the formation of wrinkles. Highly effective and antioxidant cranberry seed oil combats the first signs of aging while cloudberry infuses a power-pack of Vitamin C. Smooth some over skin any time of day to feel energized and ready to glow!

What I like is that this product goes on underneath my normal moisturizer. I've been using it both morning and night, and my skin feels smoother and more velvety because of it. It provides a great deal of radiance without shine, and a better overall texture. Not bad...especially for $21.99 (available at CVS). I wholly recommend adding this to your normal skin care routine!

Moroccan Spring at Sephora!

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am more than ready for Spring to hurry up and get here. As I get older, I find that I like Winter, cold, and snow less and less!

Our friends over at Sephora have Spring on their mind and are about to introduce their new Moroccan Sunrise Collection for the new season. Infused with striking hues and elegant designs, this colorful collection will get you gorgeous just in time for spring!

Enter a pink paradise without breaking the bank. Check out these adorable and affordable Moroccan must-haves:

Moroccan Sunrise Lip Gloss ($15) - Highly pigmented and super shiny gloss that can be worn alone or layered with lipstick and liner for an intense glow.

Moroccan Sunrise Bronzer ($22) – A shimmering loose powder bronzer that delivers the perfect exotic tint.

Moroccan Sunrise Palette ($32) – This palette of five shadows can be blended together or worn separately, and will take you from day to night.
Moroccan Sunrise 5 Piece Brush Set ($42) – A lavish gold pouch for a pretty price, this five-piece brush set has everything you need to create beauty-full eyes.

Moroccan Sunrise Round Compact Mirror ($18) – For fashionistas on the go, this round compact includes a regular mirror and a magnifying mirror.

Moroccan Sunrise Pocket Brush Set ($18) – Travel with style with this set of five essential pocket-sized brushes – all a jet-setter needs to apply gorgeous makeup en route!

Moroccan Sunrise Atomizer ($10) – A Moroccan-inspired, travel-size, refillable perfume atomizer that lets you carry your favorite fragrance with you wherever you go.

Moroccan Sunrise Nail File Pack ($6) - A beautiful but practical three-piece fashion nail file kit that boasts artwork on the exterior inspired by the gates of Morocco.

Moroccan Sunrise Pencil Case ($18) – Decked out with gold embroidery and trim, this unique pencil case accommodates anything from brushes to lipsticks.

Moroccan Sunrise Cosmetic Bag ($22) – This wide bag brings glamour to your everyday beauty routine in four dazzling hues: fuschia, tangerine, white and gold.

Moroccan Sunrise 3 in 1 Bag ($42) – The perfect travel companion for the beauty on a budget, this short-handled tote unzips to reveal three smaller, removable compartments.

Moroccan Sunrise Hanging Travel Bag ($50) – A hanging bag that stores, organizes and protects your cosmetics and toiletries with ease and panache.

These products are so pretty!! I can't wait to head over to Sephora to check them out!

Beauty Flash: Mark your beauty calendar, it’s time to get gorgeous – naturally! Sephora is pleased to announce a special Beauty Insider event on Saturday, March 21st at all Sephora store locations. Get the inside scoop on natural and organic beauty and pick up your free set of fabulous product samples!

The Horror on Faces of Beautiful You

As I mentioned last week, HSN is highlighting two new products in it's latest Faces of Beautiful You webisode. In Episode 6, the girls freak themselves out by watching scary movies, and then tackle scary skin care issues with two featured products:

ICE ELEMENTS 2-MINUTE MIRACLE EXFOLIATING GEL
Available for $19.95, this gel dramatically renews the look and feel of your skin. The non-granular exfoliating gel offers exclusive technology that lets you see a visible difference in just one use. You'll enjoy an intensive, deep cleansing beauty treatment with soothing botanical extracts.

I tried it, and my skin felt softer and more evenly textured. The gel is a funny shade of purple and almost looks like hair gel, which is initially off-putting. But it is easy to use and doesn't include any harsh grains. At first I was skeptical that a gel could properly exfoliate my skin, but I was pleasantly surprised with the results.
M. ASAM PEEL OFF MASK
Also available for $19.95, this mask is imported from Germany and will cleanse your complexion and indulge your senses. Formulated with grape seed oil, this aromatic mask helps leave your skin feeling silky smooth and supple.

Peel off masks are, admittedly, not my favorite skin care product. They always take too forever to dry and they get caught in the hair around my scalp line. However, this product did make my skin feel refreshed once I peeled it off. It has a very fresh scent and it left my face feeling tighter....not bad. It does take some time to dry, but it peels off better than most masks I've used. If you like peel offs, you'll love this one!

Head over to HSN to check these products out. And don't forget: you can save on shipping, but you have to act fast!