Beauty Product of the Week: Bust Lift

What is it? Lierac Bust Lift Cream Modelage "contains hazelnut oligopeptides to help restructure the bust’s shape with a collagen boosting action, while Japanese mandarin orange extract reduces and prevents the appearance of brown spots. The décolleté feels tighter and smoother." Available online and at CVS for $45 (there is also a spray that does a similar job).

What did you think? I don't have brown splotches on my chest (yet!), but I am prone to having pink blotchy skin (sexy!). The skin on my decolletage is also prone to dryness, so using a cream daily can only improve things.

The cream is pink and smells lotion-y. Crappy description I know, but it does smell like a high-end skin cream. It absorbs well into my skin and the whole application process is pleasurable (it's a twice daily booby rub, so what's not to like!?).

My skin is still a bit blotchy, but it feels better. The texture seems smoother, more even. I am not entirely sure if the skin is any firmer yet, but it's not any worse than when I started.

The final verdict? Not bad. I am only into week 2 of my 4 week trial, but so far, so good. Regardless if it's this cream or something else, I think adding a twice daily decolletage cream is going to be part of my new beauty regime.

The Thrill Is Gone...

It happens to the best of us, but lately I've noticed that a few of my favorite beauty products--my old faithfuls--have let me down a bit. Here are my top three "I'm not feeling it anymore" products:

1. Great Lash by Maybelline. Say it ain't so! Once my favorite inexpensive mascara on the market, Great Lash seems sorta ho-hum to me now. I am not exactly sure what's happened, but the last time I cracked open a tube, it seemed too clumpy and a bit, well, cheap. I've been a big fan of Great Lash for years and I do plan to give them a chance at redemption, but for now, I'm going to find something else.
   
   
2. Lip Venom by DuWop. I was a Lip Venom addict, especially when it first came out. I liked the cinnamon-y bite of the lip plumper, and I also liked the way it made my lips shine. Now? It seems like Lip Venom has lost it's bite. It seems to fade away too quickly in my opinion. Plus I was really unimpressed with their Lip Venom V, the plumper with color that tied in with Twilight.
   
   
3. Bare Minerals by Bare Essentials. I am not sure why, but I have fallen out of love with this mineral foundation. Maybe they've saturated the market too much? Maybe I'm just ready for a change? Whatever the case may be, I'm going to search for something new once my current foundation is used up.

So sorry formerly loved beauty products. It's not you...it's me. Except, maybe it IS you. Ugh. I guess time moves on, things change, and what was awesome 4 years ago doesn't quite cut it today.

Have you been let down by a much loved beauty product? Leave me a comment and tell me about it!

And...don't forget to become a fan of Kiss and Makeup on Facebook!

Psst....Degree is Getting Ready for Spring

Spring is just around the corner. Hell, here in the normally gray and rainy Seattle area, Spring seems to have already come. Last week (when I was off of work on Mid-Winter Break), it was super sunny and in the mid-50s every day, so much so that my allergies went bananas with all the budding plants and rising pollen rates.

Anyway, with Spring just around the corner, the folks over at Degree are getting ready to celebrate the beauty of the outdoors by joining forces with nature to launch new Degree Women Natureffects products. I'll have more information soon!

What Were You Doing When You Were 15?

I don't know about the rest of you, but when I was 15, my biggest ambitions in life were getting through high school in one piece, having decent friends, and maybe, just maybe, landing myself a super cute boyfriend. My teen years were not my best.

Anyway, I mention this because I recently received some samples of skin care products made by a 15 year old. Geesh, I'm feeling old. Teenager Ava Anderson has launched the first line of skin care and cosmetics in which every ingredient in every product scores ZERO on the Cosmetics Database toxicity scale.

Anderson became concerned with all the potentially hazardous products found in everyday skin care and cosmetics products and decided to do something about it. With her the help of her parents, she's launched Ava Anderson Non-Toxic Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer, Exfoliator, Lip Scrub and Eye Makeup Remover Pads. Each is formulated with truly safe ingredients, they provide gentle cleansing, moisturizing, conditioning, nourishing and protection for every day healthy skin.
I've been trying out several of these products and they're very good. I expected them to be very sugary and sweet smelling since they were made by a teenager, but I was pleasantly surprised to find them fresh and clean scented. The face wash is nice--it rivals my favorite Purity Made Simple in providing a gentle, thorough cleansing. The eye makeup remover pads get the job done, and the lip scrub is minty and invigorating.

Pretty impressive stuff from a 15 year old!

If you're interested in checking out the Ava Anderson Non-Toxic line, head over to her website.

Shear Genius Episode 3 Recap

Time for another recap of Bravo's latest season of Shear Genius!

I keep saying it, but it still remains true: Camila Alves is not the best host. Far from it. Ok...moving on.

So, for the Short Cut challenge the contestants had to use hair extensions on men to give their male hair models a more rockin look. Honestly? Hair extensions on men? Blech. I like (no....I love!) long-haired men, but men wearing hair extensions seems a little sad (I'm looking at YOU, John Travolta!)

Anyway: Matthew got first pick and Amy got last. Unfortunately for Amy, not only did her client have a difficult head of hair to work with, he also had a difficult personality. Faatemah also struggled, having never worked with men’s hair. The British guy who thinks he's awesome but kinda sucks (Adee) had food poisoning and barfed in the middle of the competition (I guess he's also opposed to men wearing hair extensions). This granted him a reprieve from judging. Matthew and Janine, on the other hand, delivered clever transformations, which landed them the top two spots respectively, and garnered Matthew a very important edge for the Elimination Challenge.

For the Elimination Challenge, the contestants were whisked away to the country for their first cover shoot. Within the “Romance Novel Cover Style” challenge was another obstacle – they would have to work in teams of two. Matthew’s earlier winning advantage was then revealed: he was able to work solo if he chose and was granted the power of coupling up the other stylists and matching them with their models.

Matthew quickly chose to team up with Janine and picked Brig, who tried to sabotage his work the previous week, to work solo. Brig's the girl with the yellow hair and big bows. She's a weird one. She's an obvious attention-whore, but there's something awkward about her that reminds me of Muriel Hislop from Muriel's Wedding. And if you haven't seen Muriel's Wedding, Netflix it immediately. It's an awesome movie.

In the end, Brig wowed the judges with her ability to rise to the occasion. Matthew and Janine had the edge, however, by delivering great color, two romantic and cohesive hairstyles and impressive extensions. On the bottom of the pack sat Adee and Faatemah. This fact did not sit well with Adee, who proceeded to throw a minor tantrum during the judging (he's such an annoying baby).

In the end, however, it was Faatemah’s lack of vision and focus that sent her packing. I think the judges screwed up--Adee needs to go...and soon.

The winning look

Before

After

Get the winning look from Kevin Mancuso
Who says romance is dead? Turn up the heat with a tousled, voluminous style that’s sure to melt his heart.

• Use body boosting products, like Nexxus Dualiste Color Protection + Volume Shampoo and Conditioner, to help add volume.
  
• Apply a curl enhancing mousse, like Nexxus Gorgeous Curls, onto damp hair, then blow-dry using a large round brush. \
• While hair is still warm, set one-inch sections into large Velcro rollers.
  
• Once hair is cool, remove rollers and tousle.
  
• Prevent frizz and flyaways by running a dime size amount of NEW Nexxus Sleek Finish over hair with your fingers.
  

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook (click here – http://www.facebook.com/nexxus ). Tune in to see Nexxus on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. EST on BRAVO.

I'm Baaack!

I had a wonderful week away from work, technology, and responsibility. Now I'm getting back into the swing of things and will have a full week of beauty blogging ahead of me, so stay tuned!

Also: I've finally bit the bullet and have started a facebook page for my blog. Click here to become a fan on facebook and tell all your beauty-loving friends. I'll update the facebook page with beauty quickies. Maybe I'll even have a facebook-only giveaway in the near future.

Need to Shop? Go to HauteLook!

Awhile back, I mentioned a few online sale sites that have incredible deals. One place I may not have mentioned is one of my favorites: HauteLook.

You can get shopping by going to this link and signing up. I visit HauteLook daily and have even made a purchase or two (I got an amazing pair of earrings for a steal). Along with clothing, they often sell beauty products, stuff for your house, and jewelry on their site. Today, they're having a sale on Laura Mercier products.

Like I said, click here, sign up, and get shopping. They feature some killer products at amazing prices. It's the perfect place to get a gift for your friends, family, or yourself!

Shear Genius, Episode 2

Time for another Shear Genius recap!

So the second episode aired on Wednesday and I must admit, I am still not wild about the new host. Through no fault of her own, she's going to be compared to former host Jaclyn Smith and the comparison doesn't pan out in her favor. The new host (Camila Alves) just doesn't have the charm, the warmth, or the polish of Jaclyn. *Sigh.*

I'm also still getting used to the contestants, though in a week or two I'm sure I'll find people to root for. It takes so time to get used to people and learn to like them (or hate them!)
So for the second episode, the contestants gathered to learn their short cut challenge but were surprised to learn that Giacomo wanted to go home to be with his family. Ok, fine. You're not cut out for this type of thing, so adios Giacomo!

For the shortcut challenge, “Color, Repair & Style,” Kim Vo produced 10 “blondorexic” clients, whose tresses were in dire need of repair. I must say that as a girl with platinum blonde hair, I as a bit annoyed with the challenge. Platinum blonde can be done in a way that keep the hair healthy. Not everyone with platinum locks is "blondorexic" and not every blonde has to change to darker color to look better. Whatevs.
During model selection, Matthew and Brig (the yellow-haired girl who wears unfortunate gold lame bathing suits, and huge bows) were last to pick from heads of over-processed and unnatural locks. Brig, holder of the last pick, managed to trick Matthew into thinking that she wanted the challenge of reviving the most damaged hair of all. Matthew took the bait and the client, much to Brig’s satisfaction. In the end, however, Brig underestimated Matthew’s color talent, and his total transformation of his client garnered him the shortcut win and an edge at the elimination challenge. (Cue evil laugh.) Adee, April and Brian, whose model had to endure bleach in her eye and an unfinished style, made up the bottom three.

For the elimination challenge, the contestants headed to the famed Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where their challenge was to create

a style for a server that was inspired by a single dish from the Dakota Restaurant’s new menu. Back at the Nexxus Salon, the stylists went in many different directions, from literal translations of their dish featuring props and color, to more subdued offerings. In the end, the judges rewarded Jon for his polished take on seared scallops, while Arzo’s aimless vision of Tuna Tatake fell flat and prompted her elimination. The challenge was a bit odd, but the winning look was lovely and I can't complain with Arzo's tuna-haired flop ending up as the big loser.

Before

After

This week’s “how to get the look”

Have fun with your hair by taking inspiration from things outside the norm, like an artistically sculpted appetizer. For a yummy style like last night’s winning look, try adding a bright accessory to an ordinary up-do. With this look, you are sure to be the dish du jour.

• Shampoo and condition with hydrating products, such as Nexxus Therappe and Nexxus Humectress.
  
• To create supple texture, apply a mousse, like Nexxus Gorgeous Curls, onto damp hair, then blow-dry, paying special attention to smooth the top section of hair.
  
• Once dry, pull hair back into high ponytail and curl random sections with a small barrel iron.
  
• Use bobbi pins to secure individual curls around the ponytail into an artful up-do.
  
• Help prevent flyaways and maintain the style with a light misting of hairspray, like Nexxus Comb Thru.
• Finish the look by pinning an elegant accessory, such as a flower, to one side of the up-do, or several flowers in between the curls.

Don't forget to tune into Bravo at 10:00 pm on Wednesday night to check out the next Shear Genius!

About This Week...

This is going to be a crazy week for me. I have tons of stuff to share with you, but I also have the week off of work with my husband (it's also my bday in a few days), so my posts may be few and far between. I'll try to get a few posts ready, but things should get back to normal sometime next week.

Hang tight! In the meantime, you can always check out my older posts (I've been writing this blog since 2006, so there's plenty to ready!) or send me an email if you have any questions or topic suggestions (asklydia@hotmail.com).

Thanks!

Valentine's Day Deals for You (and you hair!)

Here's a quick deal for today: If you need/want to get new hair brushes, you can get a great deal over at Brush Love. Between now and Monday, you can get 50% off of everything (except the Mason Pearson brand of products) by entering the code "luv50" at checkout.

I've reviewed Brush Love products in the past--they're very good quality and are very affordable, so I encourage you to get shopping. Remember: The deal ends on the 15th.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Men in Makeup

Here's a silly video for you this Friday. It's a tutorial on how men should (or should not!) wear makeup. Doesn't it suck that men get to go through life without worrying about makeup and skin care products? I guess I shouldn't complain too much--buying and using makeup is fun after all.

So, enjoy this video. Though I must say that I'd love to see a video on how RuPaul's Drag Race drag queens make their transformation from male to female. Those men can really work makeup magic!

Non-Fattening Chocolate for Valentine's Day

Wow--Valentine's Day is Sunday. I don't know about the rest of you, but 2010 seems to be flying by. Valentine's Day is insanely commercialized and it's kind of a silly holiday, but if you're looking for something sweet, skip the chocolates and check out these chocolate-inspired beauty products:
Body Deli's Dark Chocolate Truffle Botanical Butter Scrub, $32
Made of extra fine dead sea salts and certified organic raw cacao beans and organic cocoa butter, this scrub polishes skin and leaves a delicious aroma. Pure, all-natural therapeutic essential oils are used to impart the healing essence of true aromatherapy on the skin. The Body Deli recommends using the scrub on wet skin 2-3 times per week to achieve the best results. The Body Deli products are made of fresh, natural ingredients and packaged in recyclable containers. All products contain an expiration date to showcase when they lose their max. potency.

Sephora Espresso Chocolate Collection, $10-$16
Bath and body products lightly scented with a rich espresso chocolate fragrance. This tantalizing scent blends energizing espresso with indulgent chocolate for a downright addictive result. Each product contains deeply hydrating ingredients, such as Aloe Vera and Jojoba, for delectably soft skin.

Dylan's Candy Bar Chocolate Cupcake Collection, $16-$22
Savor the flavor of celebration with something downright sinful and delicious. You can't miss the most crave-worthy cupcake treats! Dylan's Candy Bar Chocolate Cupcake Collection is chock full of decadent delight.

How Safe Are Your Cosmetics?

I don't watch Dr. Oz, mostly because I really, really, really dislike Oprah and all things Orpah (including Dr. Oz). Anyway, apparently on a recent Dr. Oz show, he was talking about how unsafe cosmetics are.

Here are my thoughts on the subject:

1. This whole thing gives me a headache. I intellectually know that I should care deeply about this. I understand that I should be very concerned with the amount of chemicals and toxins in beauty products, but for some reason, I just don't think about it. I should care, yet I don't lose any sleep over it. What's up with that?
2. Daytime TV always seems to hype up the dangers in common, everyday things to get ratings. Does Dr. Oz really care about chemicals and toxins in our cosmetic products? Maybe, but I bet he cares more about having women tune in to watch what deadly products are lying around our homes. TV is the land of shock-journalism, so you have to calm down a bit after watching segments about deadly products.
3. If you are concerned about what's in your cosmetics, you should go to the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetic Database to check out what you're putting on your skin. They analyze ingredients and provide a great deal of information about your favorite products.

The bottom line: you need to be an informed consumer. Yes, there are probably some ingredients you should avoid. And yes, some products may be harmful. But you also need to balance out common sense. Only take risks you're comfortable with, but don't go through life being afraid.

So tell me: do you worry about this topic? Let me know what you do to educate yourself.

Sephora's Winning Lineup!

The Super Bowl may have come and gone, but Sephora still has top beauty brands’ MVP and Rookie must-haves. Proven all-stars show off in the MVP category – but don’t let the rookies fool you. They have some cool new moves that will make you want to change your game plan.

Sephora’s 2010 MVP Roster:

• Dior DiorShow Mascara ($24) – A cult-classic that leaves lashes thick, long and curled, making it Sephora’s MVP – most valuable product, that is!
• Philosophy Hope In A Jar ($38) – No games played here, this long-loved moisturizer provides soft, healthy and glowing results.
• NARS Blush in Orgasm ($25) – A five-year-long Sephora winner, this beauty editors’ favorite is a universally flattering shade of pinky-peach.
  
• Kinerase Intensive Eye Cream ($62) – A “lineman” of wrinkle fighting cream that works to minimize flaws and maximize the tone and texture around your eye area.
  
• Marc Jacobs Daisy Gift Set ($84 Value, $65) – This set has the spirit of a playful innocence with its fresh and feminine kick. Perfect for the tomboy in you.

Sephora’s 2010 Rookie Lineup:

• Dior DiorShow Extase Mascara ($28) – Plump up your lashes, inside and out! With built-in treatment benefits and twisted wand layers for strong, high-impact lashes, it’s hard to believe this mascara is new to the game!
  
• Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($55) – New to the team, but packing a punch, this age-fighting hydrator will balance, nourish and soften your skin.
  
• NARS Orgasm Illuminator ($29) – Joining the NARS Orgasm family in a must have, an illuminator! Get an instantly refreshed, radiant and glowing look with a new twist of the brand’s most beloved shade.
  
• Kinerase Restructure Firming Eye Cream ($55) – A rookie formula with the results of a seasoned veteran, this revolutionary elastin-strengthening, firming hydrator will lift and smooth!
  
• Marc Jacobs Lola Gift Set ($70, $107 Value!) – Treat yourself to this trophy-worthy trio! With a spray, lotion and gel, your skin will smell sweet and sexy.

Need a Makeover? Get Thee to Sephora!

Tired of the short days and long, cold weather? Revive and revamp your look with Sephora’s trend-setting beauty. From accessories designer Tarina Tarantino’s sparkling new line-up, to Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries’ second fragrance, Santa Barbara, you’ll find something to spice up your mid-winter lull! Rejuvenate yourself with these fresh and fun favorites:

• Tarina Tarantino Pearl Glow Primer ($36) – Get glowing again! Made with pearl powder and light-reflecting pigments, this makeup base leaves your skin looking healthy and radiant.
• Tarina Tarantino Fleur De Lash Mascara ($19) – Create full-volume lashes with this superior mascara formula, infused with Vitamin E and Shea Butter.
• Tarina Tarantino Conditioning Lip Sheen ($22) – A lightweight, vitamin-enriched lipstick creates a gorgeous satin finish while moisturizing your lips in one easy swipe. Available in 12 shades.
• Tarina Tarantino Eye Dream Hypershadow ($19) – Sweep this finely milled powder over lids for a high pigment payoff. Available in 24 shades.
• Tarina Tarantino Fuchsia Revolution Brush Set ($69) – Inspired by Tarina Tarantino’s signature hair color, this set of five professional-quality brushes are perfect for effortless makeup applications.
• Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Shimmer Dust ($39) – Sprinkle this shimmer dust on skin for a light, sparkly glow, or use it on your hair for a playful touch.
• Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries Santa Barbara ($55) – Inspired by Leslie’s travels, escape to blue-skied Santa Barbara, with a scent that captures the true essence of the sea.
• Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries Santa Barbara Roller Ball ($16) – Create your own fragrant memories with this travel size scent that glides on effortlessly and lasts for hours.

Shear Genius, Episode 1

The first episode of the new season of Shear Genius started up on Bravo last week, and wow! I've forgotten how crazy this show is. When you watch it, you have to remind yourself that the point of this show is not to display how the contestants can style hair nicely for everyday wear. No. The point of this show is hair as art; stylists as creator. And that's ok with me.

The new season means a whole new cast of characters and, sadly, a new host. Jacquelyn Smith, the former host, has been replaced by Camila Alves. Now, Camila might be a great model and a very nice person, but she is no Jacquelyn Smith. Her hosting skills leave much to be desired. Hopefully she'll get better, but in the first episode, she seemed stiff and didn't do a great job with reading her lines. Oh well. Also new this season is the addition of Jonathan Antin as a judge. Jonathan is a nut, but he's fun to watch.

The new cast is chock-full of drama queens and over the top personalities. One contestant skated around in rollerskates and a gold bathing suit that left very little to the imaginaiton. Really? Ok...

So, the 12 contestants didn't have long to size each other up before their first Shortcut Challenge: Punk To Polish. Arzo drew first pick while Amy, the British ex-pat, was saddled with last choice, a head full of heavy, black dreadlocks. After two hours, Amy emerged victorious, transforming a mess of hair into a sleek and sophisticated asymmetrical bob. Faatemah, Brian and Janine made up the bottom three.

Ahead of the first elimination challenge, the stylists were thrilled to learn that their mentor for the season was stylist to the stars Orlando Pita. Orlando and Camila revealed that the elimination challenge would head to the runway for swimsuit client L*Space. The catch: the models would only wear bottoms, leaving the stylists to cover their chests with creative hair designs. In the end, Amy went from top to bottom alongside Adee and Joey, whose lack of vision and execution lead to this being his final cut. Janine, fittingly, went from bottom to top with her ‘sea nymph’ hairstyle, which won her immunity from elimination for the next episode.

The challenges were a bit crazy, but the judging seemed solid. Both the Amy and Janine deserved their wins. I liked the Short Cut challenge a lot--it was interesting to see how the stylists would take a woman with bright pink hair and transform them into respectable, more conservative versions of themselves in a very short period of time.

Winning look: Before

Winning look: After

While I doubt you're going to try to cover your ta-ta's with hair before instead of wearing a proper top, here are tips on how to get the winning look:

You can make the winning look into an everyday style by still creating fun volume. Try recreating the same silhouette without going over the top, for a style that is both modern and wearable.

• Shampoo and condition with products that will provide extra body, such as Nexxus Diametress and Nexxus Sublime Volume.
  
• For added lift, mist a volume boosting spray gel, like NEW Nexxus Lavish Body, onto damp hair, then turn head upside down and blow-dry.
  
• Once dry, flip head back over and smooth out bangs.
  
• To create a flowing texture, try curling one-inch sections of hair at the root using a medium barrel iron.
  
• For added texture, also try teasing random sections of hair at the root using a small-toothed comb. Work from the bottom up to minimize tangles and knots.
  
• To help hold the volume and style, lightly misting with a strong-hold hairspray, like Nexxus Maxximum.
  

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook. And be sure to tune in to Bravo every Wednesday at 10 to check out the show!

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Apparently the Super Bowl is this weekend. I say apparently because I don't really care about football. In fact, I don't think I've ever watched a football game in its entirety and I know for certain that I have never in my life watched the Super Bowl. It's just not my thing.

However, many of you will be parked in front of the TV this weekend, watching football and commercials, and eating. And to help you get your grub on without gaining unwanted pounds, I have a post full of hints for eating well during the big game over at my food blog, Deliciousness of Yum. Click here to check it out!

I'll be back Monday with plenty of makeup news.

Beauty in the Stars, Part 4

Astrology week wraps up today. TODAY: CAPRICORN, AQUARIUS, PISCES

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
You're a no-nonsense type of girl and there's more to you than meets the eye. You like to have a strict routine, even when it comes to the beauty world. You no doubt schedule your hair appointments 6 weeks in advance, and are never late to your 6:15 yoga class. To accentuate the lighter side of your personality, try shimmery, even pastel colors.

Famous, fabulous Capricorn: Kate Moss, Dolly Parton, Mary J. Blige

Aquarius (January 19-February 18)
Finally! We're on to the best sign of the zodiac (in my biased opinion!). Aquarius girls are smart and unconventional and have a love for the avant garde. Try any trend that interests you or, better yet, start your own! Just don't forget to embrace your girly side from time to time.

Famous, fabulous Aquarius: Oprah, Jennifer Aniston, Christina Ricci (and ME!)

Pisces (February 19-March 20)
You're dreamy and romantic and a little starry-eyed at times. You show your compassion in your eyes, so let yourself be creative and try out new looks that emphasize your sensibilities. Also be sure to treat yourself to regular pedicures and a little reflexology from time to time.

Famous, fabulous Pisces: Cindy Crawford, Drew Barrymore, Eva Longoria

Great Deal, Just for You!

Great news! The folks over at Michael Todd are offering a 20% discount to my readers!

In appreciation, for the rest of this month (Feb), my readers will receive 20% discount off of all purchases made. Just enter the coupon/promo code "Lydia" at checkout to receive the discount.

Michael Todd offers some killer products, including the new anti-aging cream, KNU. Head over to their website and get shopping!

Beauty in the Stars, Part 3

Astrology week continues! TODAY: LIBRA, SCORPIO, SAGITTARIUS

Libra (September 23-October 22)
Balance is your thing, and your beautiful exterior is balanced by your elegant nature. Your fair face is your focus, especially your enchanting eyes. If you want to spend on products, invest in high quality eye shadows, liners and mascaras to enhance your best feature.

Famous, fabulous Libra: Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, Naomi Watts

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Ooh, Scorpio--the most sensual sign of the zodiac! There's something mysterious, intoxicating, and smoldering about you. The best beauty tip the stars can offer is to keep active. Working up a sweat is good for the complexion, after all. With your natural glow, all you need is a quick coat of mascara and a swipe of lipgloss. Let your inner passion shine through!

Famous, fabulous Scorpio: Julia Roberts, Parker Posey, Winona Ryder

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Sags like to make bold statements, so don't be boring with your look. Go over the top and try new things, just be sure you're standing out for all the right reasons. Your sign is represented by a horse, wild and free. And like that horse, your hair is essential to your look. Keep it healthy, keep it shiny, and have fun with it.

Famous, fabulous Sagittarius: Scarlett Johannson, Trya Banks, Christina Aguilera

TOMORROW: CAPRICORN, AQUARIUS, PISCES

Shear Genius Previews!

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am hooked on Bravo and their ultra-addictive reality shows. Returning tomorrow (Wednesday, February 3rd) is the hair styling competition show Shear Genius. For their third season, Shear Genius is getting some personnel changes--and I for one am looking forward to Jonathan Anton!

In the premiere episode, the twelve stylists arrive in Los Angeles where for their first challenge, the stylists must give unruly punk rockers a more polished look. The competition gets even more edgy during the elimination round when the contestants collaborate with a hot new swimwear company to create sophisticated styles for a risqué fashion show. Which contestant will be the first to stand out and which will be sent home packing their scissors?

Check out these previews to get yourself ready for a new season!



Meet the mentor



Check out the first challenge

Beauty in the Stars, Part 2

Astrology week continues! TODAY: CANCER, LEO, VIRGO

Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Cancer girl, yours is a sign of love and comfort, so it's no surprise that your sign also rules the chest and stomach. Whether yours are real or real expensive, your cleavage is your best asset. Make sure you take care of the skin in your decollete region. Use a good quality anti-aging moisturizer regularly and be sure to use sun protection on your chest to avoid age-spots or wrinkling.

Famous, fabulous Cancer: Pamela Anderson, Lindsey Lohan, Liv Tyler
Leo (July 23-August 22)
Like the lion that represents your sign, your mane is your trademark. Be sure to pamper your hair with the best products and tools you can afford. Find a stylist you like and trust and keep a healthy relationship with him/her. Your dazzling smile is your second best feature, so keep your teeth whitened and invest in classic red lipstick.

Famous, fabulous Leo: Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry

Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Virgo is the sign of the virgin, so you have a purity to you like no other sign. But while you seem innocent, you're fierce and keenly intelligent. You like perfection and demand the best. Take time to learn proper makeup application and how to best enhance your face. Take your time, but don't get too bogged down--remember, perfection is impossible no matter how much you may desire it!

Famous, fabulous Virgo: Beyonce Knowles, Jada Pinkett Smith, Nicole Richie

TOMORROW: LIBRA, SCORPIO, SAGITTARIUS

Beauty in the Stars, Part 1

Even though many of us laugh off astrology, we still check our horoscope for the day and wonder if we do certain things because we're a certain sign. Well, this week, I thought it would be fun to apply the zodiac to beauty tips. I'll focus on three signs a day for the next four days. Leave any thoughts in the comment section, but remember: this is just for fun!

TODAY: ARIES, TAURUS, GEMINI

Aries (March 21-April 19)
Aries gals are on the go and very sporty chic. Your sign rules the head, so focus on an amazing hair cut that perfectly frames your face but that also works well for your wash and wear lifestyle. Keep your makeup simple with just a bit of mascara and lipgloss. You're an unfussy beauty.

Famous, fabulous Aries: Kate Hudson, Reese Witherspoon, Fergie

Taurus (April 20-May 20)
You're earthy and voluptuous and like sensual things, especially a good meal. You might have killer curves and a glowing complexion, so be sure to accentuate your positives. Keep your skin beautiful with good quality skin care products and be sure to use sun protection daily. And don't forget to pay attention to your neck, chest and hands. For makeup, all you need is the perfect lipstick or gloss to highlight your lovely mouth.

Famous, fabulous Taurus: Uma Thurman, Penelope Cruz, Cate Blanchett

Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Gemini gals are lovely on the outside, but also have a lot to offer in the brains department. You can be quirky and unpredictable and you like to try out different looks on a regular basis. Your focus is on your arms and shoulders. Keep yourself buff and ready for your favorite sleeveless dress by pumping the iron. Also, invest in regular manicures so you look polished no matter what you're doing.

Famous, fabulous Gemini: Heidi Klum, Angelina Jolie, Natalie Portman

TOMORROW: CANCER, LEO, VIRGO