Created by Stila owner Lynn Tilton, Stila 4.0 is part training case part media player with a docking station for your iPhone or iPod touch. Simply download make up tutorials available at www.stilabeautytube.com, then, once you’ve downloaded the tutorial, simply dock it and push play. The video will then play on your device, complete with sound. And then, once you are done, the case can also be used as a music player too. Holy Cow! I must say, this thing looks … AWESOME! I must acquire one at once!

If that wasn’t enough, you get some make up and a bunch of other goodies included as well. The Full Makeup Player Kit includes:

A beautytube DVD and instructional card

Convertible Color

Aside from the numerous tutorials that are already available, Tilton recently told Fox News to expect more tutorials featuring celebrities, guest experts and beauty bloggers in the near future as well. Also, if you like the make up included in the kit there is a continuity option (for a monthly charge, of course) from which you would receive a new set of colors and instructional DVD every 60 days.

The Stila Makeup Player retails for $69.90 and is available through www.stilacosmetics.com

Ulta is now the exclusive home of Ed Hardy hair styling tools, so if you simply must have the most fashionable of hair styling tools possible, get your fashionable fanny to the nearest Ulta right away. The line features two different one inch flat irons and two 1800 watt hair dryers each decorated with the two most famous Ed Hardy designs: the white versions have the Geisha logo and the black versions have the Love Kills logo. There is also a Geisha paddle brush (okay, it’s kinda cute) and Love Kills bobby pins, headbands and a stand alone vanity mirror.

I’ll admit there was a time when I really liked Ed Hardy, but now with douchebags like Jon Gosselin whoring the label I can’t really get too excited about this. It just seems like another spoke in the massive Ed Hardy marketing wheel. As for how the products work: ehh, for the price (expensive) I would rather spend a little more and get something that I know is actually going to last. That said, I might change my mind if there ever is a “Twilight” hair dryer. I want Bella’s hair.

When I was introduced to Cellex C Under-Eye Toning Gel I was intrigued by its unique packaging. It’s a bright blue liquid housed in a roller ball pen like the old Bonnie Bell Kissing Potion from the 80’s. Do they still make that stuff? I want some. I instantly had visions of the ball getting stuck and tugging at my delicate under eye area, but it didn’t tug at all. That said, I recommend getting the liquid started on the back of your had before you apply it to the face for the smoothest application.

Cellex C Under-Eye Toning Gel is a different solution to puffy eyes…it’s not great, but it is unique. The application is a bit strange because you have to either tilt your head back or tilt the pen at a weird angle. I recommend tilting your head back with your eyes shut and gently rolling the pen around the eye. It is applied after cleansing before moisturizer and eye cream.

The most noticeable ingredients are Eucalyptus and Peppermint and if you have sensitive eyes watch out, it’s really potent. I mean, wow. It doesn’t burn per se, but it made my eyes tear up and there was an immediate cooling, menthol sensation everywhere I applied it. I could definitely feel it working and my tired heavy eyes were suddenly shocked wide awake. It was a little alarming at first since I had no idea what to expect but once my eyes cleared up, I could see that they were slightly less puffy. There wasn’t much difference in the dark circles, but after a few minutes my eyes felt pretty good and very awake.

The good news is the more I’ve used it the less shocking it is, but I think that means that my skin is getting used to it. It reminds me of a liquid Noxzema. Did any of you use Noxzema as a teen? Noxzema would burn the first time you used it and the more you used it the less you felt it.  So, I am now saving it for mornings when I’ve had too many cocktails the night before, it feels like a ray of sunshine on those mornings.

Fortunately, the powers that be over at Leaf and Rusher have realized the error of their ways and have significantly lowered the price of their products. I can finally buy a bottle without buyer’s remorse or guilt. This cleanser is good for all skin types, and it is still a little on the pricey side, but if you have sensitive skin it’s worth the money.

Leaf and Rusher Green Tea Wash is a soap-free cleanser that gently removes dirt and impurities while leaving the skin soft and hydrated. Because it is soap-free, it won’t lather up like an ordinary cleanser, instead it rinses away clean with no residue. Enriched with green tea, antioxidants, licorice, essential amino acids, grapefruit, bois de rose, and tangerine, the scent is clean, invigorating and a perfect wake-me-up scent.

My sensitive skin really likes this cleanser, it almost glows when I use it, and the redness in my cheeks is reduced to a more even tone. It cleanses gently without stripping the skin, a big plus, and controlled my oily t-zone well. Some other noteworthy Leaf and Rusher products are the Rapid Resurface and the TX for Lips. Speaking of which, I heard through the grapevine that Brad Pitt loves the TX for Lips so much that he buys it by the case. I wonder if Angelina uses it too?

Dry Shampoos are powders sprayed into dry hair at the roots then brushed out. They are used in between regular washings and are designed to absorb oil and add volume and texture to the hair. They can give you an extra couple of days to your blowout, and can help hold updo’s in place. They also cover up any odors you hair has absorbed since your last blowout/washing.

I’ve tried numerous brands of dry shampoos over the years with some hits and many misses. So, here are a few of my favorite and not so favorite dry shampoos. Hopefully one of these works for you.

Rene Furterer Naturia Dry Shampoo

This one is my number one favorite, I just wish it was a little bit cheaper. I have a problem with really strong scents and the scent of this shampoo is light and fresh. A big plus is that the powder itself is a light flesh tone so it won’t leave a white reside in the hair. Also, it utilizes kaolin clay, silica, rice and cornstarch powders to absorb oil.

Kloraine Gentle Dry Shampoo

I really like the way this shampoo works, but I would only recommend it for people with fine or short hair because it runs out kind of fast. A thick maned maven may only get a couple of uses out of it. The scent is light and the oil absorbing Oat Milk works really well around the hairline. It might leave a slight white residue, however, that brushes out easily with a boar bristle brush.

Frederic Fekkai Au Natural Dry Shampoo

This shampoo is packaged a little differently than the rest; it is not a spray, but it is a powder in a nozzle (like a hair color bottle) so you have to be careful not to use too much. If you are an over-user of product you may want to look elsewhere, but if you are light handed this is good for brunettes. It is a white powder, but once it is massaged in it won’t leave dark hair ashy. Exclusively at Sephora.

Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder

This is one of those love ‘em or hate ‘em products. The difference in the Bumble and Bumble hair powders are that they are colored: blondish, red, brown and black, and because the powder is colored it is a lifesaver if you have roots or grays around the hairline and can’t get to the salon. The downside is that they can get extremely messy. Holding a towel over your face is a good idea if you have already done your make up.

Ojon Rub-Out Dry Cleanser To Go

Another one of those love it or hate it products primarily because of the scent. Ojon nuts are roasted to release the oil the scent of their products is very smokey and strong. Personally, I love the way it smells, like fresh ground coffee, but if you have a problem with lingering scents you may not like this one. Also, you really have to shake this one up before using or the nozzle may clog.

The “Love & Beauty” line is fairly large, consisting of shimmer powders, glitter eyeliner pencils, lip gloss, eye shadows and mascaras in varying colors. The packaging looks like what I would expect from Forever 21: cheap. But I never (well, almost never) judge a lip gloss by it’s container, so I will give it a shot. The Light Rose/Fuchsia and Cherry/Coral lip gloss duos look right up my alley.

There are also two “Love & Beauty” fragrances, “Joy” and “Rock ‘n Roll,” but I’m not expecting anything good. I do judge fragrances by their packaging and never like cheap fragrances. The cute little candle gift sets look like they will make good stocking stuffers as do the glittery toe separators and toenail clippers that are shaped like a foot.

This looks like a good line for young teens and tweens. I doubt it will make a huge splash in the cosmetics world, but with its low, low price I have no doubt it will do well all the same. I’m going to get some for my niece for Christmas, so if she destroys it as fast as she destroys every other cosmetic I’ve given her, I won’t care too much.

I’m sure you’ve caught on to the Acai Berry trend that has taken over the beauty/health industry. Whether you’re using it in your smoothies or using its extract in your skin care regimen, it’s everywhere and there’s no escaping it! But why would you want to? After all, this superfruit boasts anti-oxidant fighting powers and can help fight off skin damaging free radicals.

Kiehl’s has created a whole skin care line based on these claims:

Kiehl’s Acai Damage-Repairing Skincare collection is comprised of Performance-Proven, 100% Natural Origin Super-Antioxidant Organic Açaí Berry

This collection helps skin repair the visible effects of both physical and environmental damage, while also helping to stimulate your skin’s natural renewal process and restore its tone, texture, and elasticity, due to environmental oxidation, sun exposure and other external skin stressors

The collection instantly appealed to me because it’s Paraben — and silicone-free.  So I decided to try out the Acai Damage-Minimizing Cleanser and Acai Damage-Correcting Moisturizer.

Acai Damage-Minimizing Cleanser

The cleanser is a foam cleanser, so when you pump it, only a small amount of product is being used and turned into foam, making it last longer. It really leaves your face feeling clean and doesn’t leave a feeling of residue that heavier cleansers can. It removed all my makeup, although I should note I don’t wear mascara, but I’m guessing you’d want to use an eye makeup remover as well. The smell is really mild, but it has a nice hint of herbs and a nice mix of floral and fruity aromas that I found enjoyable.

Acai Damage-Correcting Moisturizer

The moisturizer is a bit thicker than I had expected. My skin is more on the oily side and I felt like the cleanser made my face a bit too dry, but the moisturizer afterward was the perfect balance. It has a stronger smell than the cleanser, but nothing overwhelming. There’s a nice kick of rosemary along with many other fresh scents. Even though it is a thicker cream though, it claims your pores wont clog.

Overall I think the duo is a good combination. The antioxidants and other healing properties are, probably, exactly what my skin needs heading into the winter, especially after a sun filled summer!

Boscia is the North American offshoot of Japan’s largest holistic skincare company, Fancl. All of Boscia’s products are botanically based and preservative-free utilizing Willow Herb and Jojoba Leaf in every product (except the blotting papers). Willow Bark is an anti-irritant and good for sensitive skin while the Jojoba Leaf is an antioxidant that battles all those nasty free radicals.

First, the fact that it comes in a pump is a nice touch. I did a little research and found that because Boscia is preservative-free all of the products are packaged so that your hands cannot contaminate your remaining product. Japanese regulations are so strict, in fact, that Boscia is actually packaged in a clean room to ensure your product is completely bacteria free. I have to admit I’m kinda impressed.

After a recent hair removal incident I tried the Smooth Away and it worked. However, I pressed WAY too hard, and as a result, my face was left raw, tender and more than a little red. I was all out of Aloe and worried about what my skin would look like in the morning, so I decided to give Boscia a try.

The scent of this toner is light and clean smelling, and it really seemed to calm my angry skin. There was no burning or stinging, which surprised me considering what I did to my face, and the redness did go down a bit. Further, my skin felt cool and hydrated as soon as I applied it. What I didn’t like so much, though, is that it takes a while to dry, during which there was a slight slip to my skin f, almost like a coating, that eventually went away, but … I still didn’t like it.

In the end, I’m glad I had this toner on hand and I will continue to use it if my skin is ever irritated, but not every day. I’m just too lazy. I have a feeling this toner is perfect for a sunburn though, and I will definitely get some next summer and would recommend it for any one with sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema.

So, when I came across The Body Shop’s High Shine Lip Treatment, I was excited to try the product because I like just a little hint of color with shimmer in my lip products. Here’s what they say about the product on their website:

- Pearl pigments give lips a glimmering finish.
- Provide effective hydration with an ultra-glossy, dermatologist-approved formulation that is long-lasting and non-sticky.
- Moisturizing Community Trade marula oil from Namibia helps to repair skin’s moisture barrier, leaving lips soft and supple.”

As someone who is usually on the go between meetings and appointments, when it is essential that I look professional and well-groomed, I need a lip gloss that will immediately add color and softness to my lips. Most recently, I had a video shoot and realized that I had left my makeup bag inside my apartment and was unable to stop at a drugstore to get another lipstick. All I had was this Hi-Shine lip treatment and, it turns out, that the product added just enough color to be noticeable as well as adding shine/shimmer which always looks good on-camera.

Granted if you’re going for a vixen look, this is not the product for you, but if you need a subtle colored lip gloss that adds shine and that you can wear all day, I’d check out Body Shop’s Hi-Shine Lip Treatment.

First things first, here’s a little background on Apivita. From the Apivita web site:
“Founded in 1979, APIVITA is Greece’s leading company in natural products. Niki and Nikos Koutsianas created a line of soaps and shampoos based on bee products: honey, propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen. Their first brand, Dermoline, later named Propoline, quickly grew into a market leader in Greek pharmacies offering effective natural solutions to a number of skin problems.”

The Multi-Gyn Cleanser is a wonderful alternative to harsh soaps and body washes as it is designed to keep your body chemistry balanced. It is a non-toxic, natural, preservative-free cleansing gel for the hygiene of your sensitive area. Mutli-Gyn Cleanser is safe to use during menstruation, after sexual intercourse, after swimming or hot tubs, and is especially calming to the skin if you have a dreaded yeast infection.

The scent of this wash is absolutely divine, I almost can’t describe it. It is light and clean, not at all mediciney (I know that’s not a real word). I use it as an all-over body wash on a poof to make sure the scent is all over my skin, it smells that good! It leaves your skin hydrated, supple, and PH balanced, plus the scent lasts for quite a while.

I’m so glad that skin care companies are finally realizing that a woman’s sensitive area is different than the rest of the skin on our bodies. I stock up on this stuff as my local apothecary is always running out and don’t feel guilty because it’s surprisingly affordable (around $14.00 a bottle). Some other Apivita Propoline products I like are the Body Milk for Sensitive Skin, the High Protection SPF 30 Suncreens and the First Aid Balsam.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a really unique exfoliant. I don’t know of any other product like it. It’s a rice bran based dry powder that is mixed with water in your palm before you scrub. There is also Salicylic Acid, and for fine lines and wrinkles Green Tea to promote cell renewal. What’s great about this exfoliant is that you can control the amount of granules you use every time. Whether you need a little exfoliation or a lot you can use just the right amount you need. The result is lighter, brighter skin, and when used over time, it can make pores appear smaller.

One thing to remember, do not store it in the shower, Daily Microfoliant is a dry powder and if you get water in the container you will ruin it. As long as you keep it dry it should last you a relatively long time. I also like this when I travel because if it spills it’s really easy to clean up, just brush it away. Plus, it’s not a liquid!

Clinique Superbalm Lip Treatment

I used this at my wedding and it saved my lips by keeping them smooth and hydrated all day long. It can be used as a nighttime treatment or worn throughout the day as a super shiny gloss. The consistency is a little thick, but not too bad if you are a regular lip gloss user.

Murad Energizing Pomegranate Lip Protector

This is a pink tinted lip balm with a glossy finish that tastes and smells like yummy pomegranates. Furthermore, the consistency is light and not very sticky. This one really helps with flaking and elasticity around the mouth, also pomegranates are packed with anti-oxidants so there are some anti-aging properties to this balm as well.

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15

I really like this lip treatment even though it is a little too expensive. This is more like your traditional chapstick, but it comes in a really cool container. Also, it is SPF-15 and it can give a slight plumping effect. The finish is semi-matte and can be worn under lipstick. Beware: this one melts easily in heat though. Do not leave it the car.

Smith’s Rosebud Salve

I’ve used Rosebud Salve since I was a kid and it came in that little square tin that you could never open. It comes in an easier to open tub now, but the formula is the same as it’s been for the last 100 years. Not only can you use it as a lip treatment, but it also works well on minor burns, diaper rash and on dry elbows and knees as well.

Caudalie Lip Conditioner

This balm is the lightest of the group. If you don’t like the feel of heavy balms you might like this one. It is a stick lip balm that is light enough to work under or over lipstick. This isn’t for someone with seriously dry lips however, but if you just need a little moisture this one is a good choice. Warning: this sick is white and can leave your lips looking a little pale if you over do it.

With make up and fashion trends going super dark this fall, your nail color is now becoming a crucial accessory. I have purchased more nail polish recently than any other beauty product and am currently changing polish colors on a weekly basis. I simply can’t get enough of these new fall colors!

This fall, the oval shaped nail is back. Nails are rounder this season and the classic oval shaped nail is seeing a big comeback in longer nails. The must have look this fall is natural — not ’80s claws — so make sure they are just past the tips of your fingers.

Metallic and glitter polishes are a must have for the holiday party season. Silver, Gold, Blue and Black are the most popular and can really add some drama to you hands. Glitter polishes can be used to update your old polishes by layering them or to be worn alone for a sheer but dramatic touch. Some of my favorite shades: Lippmann Collection in Don’t Tell Mama and Happy Birthday.

Matte finish polishes are also really popular and are an alternative to all of this fall’s shiny polish choices. Matte polishes look best on shorter nails and seem to chip less than their shinier counterparts. I recently picked up a bottle of OPI Suede in Russian Navy and I absolutely love it. It’s a nice dark blue that is matte but not dull. Some other great matte shades: OPI Lincoln Park After Dark and We’ll Always Have Paris.

With all the color choices available you could really be creative with your color and that’s exactly what was seen on runways this fall from multi-colored manicures, geometric shapes and even “tye-dye” looking designs. Some of the popular designs, like a two colored french manicure are easy enough to do at home, although I would probably see a pro if you want something really intricate.

So ladies, I say have fun with your nail color! I always feel good when my nails look good and I must say, recently my nails have been looking awesome.

Freeze 24/7 is not a moisturizer. The cream itself is thick and a little dry feeling. Only a truly oily skin would be able to use it without moisturizer as it also absorbs excess oil and can help decrease pore size over time.

How it works:

On clean skin, lightly pat a small amount of cream on any lines or wrinkles you want relaxed. Oily gals, make sure to dab a little on your T-zone to help with oiliness throughout the day. Make sure you use this product sparingly and let it dry in between layers. If you use too much it can get really flaky as it dries.

Within about 15 minutes you should see a pretty dramatic difference in any lines or wrinkles you have. It works best on the forehead, the  brow-bone and in the nasolabial folds, those deep laugh lines around the mouth. The results are cumulative, so the more often you use it the less you have to use it everyday. It has a really unique, but light, cooling sensation when you put it on — and I love what it does for my frown lines. For me the effects really only last about 8 hours instead of 24 like the name implies — maybe I just frown too much? — but I’ve never had a problem yet simply dabbing on a little more right over my make up.

The best way to find a retailer of Freeze 24/7 is through their website. I also recently saw it on the Home Shopping Network with a cool gift included.

The article in question, titled “Should Kate Winslet Win an Oscar for the World’s Most Irritating Actress,” was published in January alongside naked pics of Winslet. It quoted her as saying disparaging things about the effects of motherhood on her body and also accused her of lying about her own exercise regime. 

The 34-year-old actress was not in court for the verdict, but her lawyer read a statement on her behalf explaining how the story had offended her and caused her a “great deal of distress”—not only because it was “simply not true,” but also because it gave people the wrong impression about her views on the female body.

“I am delighted that the “Mail” have apologized for making false allegations about me,” said Winslet. “I was particularly upset to be accused of lying about my exercise regime and felt that I had a responsibility to request an apology in order to demonstrate my commitment to the views that I have always expressed about body issues including diet and exercise.”

She added: “I strongly believe that women should be encouraged to accept themselves as they are, so to suggest that I was lying was an unacceptable accusation of hypocrisy.”

She says she is going to donate the $40k to charity. You go, Kate!

It’s definitely nice for a man to take care of himself. Just as it is for a woman to take care of herself. Both sexes appreciate good hygiene in their partners and potential partners. But, when men start delving into anti-aging lotions, facial masks and exfoliating products, a line needs to be drawn. I think that kind of regimen is just plain vain. For those of you who have seen American Psycho, feel free to insert your own Patrick Bateman joke here. Plus, such an over-the-top beauty plan is truly emasculating. Perhaps I hold a little too tightly to antiquated gender roles, but I like my men rugged. Not overly moisturized and groomed.

I think both sexes should take a few steps back from the mirror. Most of the beauty products that are pushed on us these days are unnecessary. Beauty companies are increasingly playing to the vanities and insecurities of both men and women. I’m guilty of buying anti-aging serums and an array of scrubs and lotions that promise various benefits. But I’m increasingly aware that such an extensive regimen is excessive.

Hey guys (and girls)! We’re in a recession. Now might be the perfect time to go back to good old fashioned soap and water.

In today’s economy, more and more of us are tightening our belts and that means giving up the little things like beauty treatments. So for all of us who are tackling our brows solo, here’s a few tips on brow shaping at home.

Invest in a good pair of tweezers

A good pair of tweezers will work wonders for your brows. Personally, I like Tweezerman Slant tweezers, at around $20.00 a pair they are worth the investment and they offer free sharpening for the life of the tweezers. You just send them in and pay S&H. The only bummer is that it takes about six weeks to get them back.

How to tweeze your brows

The easiest and least painful way to tweeze is simple.

Hold the skin taut gently with one hand and tweeze with the direction of the hair growth with the other. Never jab the pointy end into your skin, you could hurt yourself and it can result in scarring. If the hair is too short to tweeze, just let it go and wait until it is longer.

Stay within your natural shape

If you have naturally straight eyebrows, there is no reason to try and create an arch when it is not there. Natural eyebrows are big this season so don’t go to nuts. Fill in any bare spots with an eyebrow pencil or brow powder before you tweeze as a guide, then use a concealer pencil to mark the hairs you want to remove so you don’t tweeze anything essential.

Trim your brows if needed

Trimming your brows can be intimidating, but with practice you will get the hang of it.

Brush your eyebrows up towards your hairline. Using eyebrow scissors, trim any long hairs extending above the natural line of the brow.  Go slow and examine your progress often. Once you are finished, brush them into shape and look for any stray long hairs. I like to trim those individually.

Tweeze right after you get out of the shower

Your pores are open and the hair is softer which makes it less painful to tweeze. I know the magazines tell you to use ice to numb the area, but that just closes your pores making tweezing more traumatic to the skin.

It’s okay to tweeze above the brows

This is another magazine staple: never tweeze the top of your brows. Well I think that is all wrong. Wrong, I tell you! If you have tweezed and trimmed and there is still a hair ruining the line of your brow, then by all means get rid of it. It is a traitor and an enemy and should be dealt with accordingly.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, a well groomed eyebrow is key to a polished, flawless look and can change your entire appearance. Do you have any home tips you would like me to share? What tweezing techniques work for you?

So I did. This balm nourishes & repairs dry, stressed hair and was also the winner of Allure Magazine’s “2007 Reader’s Choice Award”. It is also said to: “… deeply replenish hair with the basic elements needed to moisturize and restructure. It’s formula combines pure botanical extracts of Rosemary and Golden Seal with deep conditioners that rejuvenate dry, damaged hair. Hair recovers its natural shine, silkiness, softness.”

Usually this type of marketing is what every hair care brand puts in their pretty colorful bottle, but Biolage is the real deal. After I started using this product, my hair not only stopped being unruly and tangled, but it started looking healthier and softer, without adding tons of other products, too. As of now, I usually buy an inexpensive shampoo and use it in conjunction with Biolage conditioning balm, and the results are fantastic.

This product may be very goopy or thick to some of you out there, and if you fall into that category, I recommend that you only use it 3-4 times per week. Application is similar to other conditioners in that you leave it in for 1-3 minutes after shampooing your hair. Then, once you rinse it out and start to style, you’ll definitely notice the lack of tangles and how much softer your hair is to touch.

I’m a fan for life, as anything that can calm my crazy hair down will be in my shower stall forever.

With that in mind, I was recently given some samples of Desert Essence Organics Italian Red Grape Shampoo and Conditioner. I’ve been noticing the Desert Essence Organics line was popping up in more and more drugstores, but never had bought any despite its super affordable price. My cynicism in organic products (especially if they are available in a drugstore) was just too great.

First some background: Desert Essence Organics is 100% vegan, wheat-free, gluten-free and is also free of parabens, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, silicones, EDTA, glycol, and petroleum-based ingredients. Whew! Oh, and it’s also cruelty-free and biodegradable. My eco-friendly ladies, thesec products were made for you.

That said, once again, I’m glad I didn’t buy it. On the plus side, the shampoo and conditioner smelled wonderful and left my hair smelling like grape lip smackers. However, that was really the only plus. I have mega hair that I only wash twice a week, and with Desert Essence Organics I had to shampoo three times before my hair really felt clean. The conditioner was super light, did nothing to detangle my rat’s nest, and actually left my hair a little dry. I ended up using my regular conditioner instead. Now, I do think these products might be good for someone with super-fine hair or for someone who washes often, but curly haired girls, unless you hair is really fine, don’t even bother.

I’m really interested in hearing from you, though. Do you know of affordable organic skin or haircare lines that actually deliver? What are some of your favorites? Have you found an organic product that you can’t live without? Please let me know! I’m ALWAYS looking for new products I can’t live without.

Halloween Edition: Fun With Blood In Under A Minute from twirlittv on Vimeo.

I started my journey at Sally’s Beauty Supply while flipping through dozens of color swatches, giving myself major angina looking for the perfect shade. To briefly describe my hair, I have medium to long dark brown hair with more than a few annoying grays streaking right through my bangs. I didn’t want to drastically change my existing color, but all the dark browns I found had just a little too much … something. Too much red, too much ash, too much purple, well, you get the idea. Then, I started adding up what I needed, in addition to the color, and I was even more discouraged–a bowl, tint brush, gloves, developer … arrrgh! I remembered just how much work coloring your hair actually was and had a moment of hesitation, but I’m nothing if not determined, and I decided to go with my first instinct.

My first instinct was to just go to the drugstore and pick out a box color that had everything I would need. I talked myself out of it because I was more than a little embarrassed at the thought of using a generic box! I got over it quickly when I got to Rite-Aid though, and saw that, not only were they “Buy one, Get One free,” but that I had a coupon too. Hallelujah. I picked up two boxes of L’Oreal Excellence Creme Hair Color in Dark Brown 4 and followed all of the included instructions for a first time application.

I started by applying the Protective Pre-Color Serum to my ends and mixed the color while I waited the two minutes it suggested. I’m not sure if it really helped anything, but it certainly didn’t hurt to use it.

Kudos to L’Oreal for almost eliminating that awful, eye-burning ammonia smell I remember from my teenage hair coloring adventures. There is still a bit of a smell, but it was very ignorable. However, I made quite a bit of a mess of my bathroom, so I suggest protecting your floor with old towels or clothing. It was a little difficult applying it to the back of my head, so if you have long hair you may want a helper. I used both boxes because I have a lot of hair, but was still able to cover all of my roots and half of the length with one box.

I left it on for a little longer than the suggested thirty minutes because my grays are stubborn, then I got in the shower to wash it out. I was really surprised how easily it all washed out. The color I dribbled all over myself while applying. came off with only a little scrubbing (and no staining) and the water ran clean after two shampoos. I was also impressed that I wasn’t stained head to toe with how much of a mess I had made. I didn’t even have to use a special towel when I was done or leave colored drips on the floor.

The enclosed conditioner tube is nothing special. I used my own deep conditioner after washing out the color because it did leave my hair pretty tangled and feeling a little dry, but as soon as I rinsed out the conditioner it felt fine.

I’m soooooo happy with the results. My hair is now a rich, chestnut brown and my grays are eradicated, now blending in beautifully. It’s shiny and feels just as healthy as it did when I had it done professionally. I’ve washed my hair twice since coloring and it hasn’t faded and was even complimented by a lady at the grocery store. I can’t believe how excited I was to tell her it was from a box!

L’Oreal, I’m sold. I am now a drugstore hair color gal. I’ll take the mess I made (which came off the floor easily with Windex) for the money it is now saving me every 10 weeks. Total cost for two boxes of hair color on sale with a coupon: $9.85

Amen.

We are a weight obsessed world, and most women feel they can’t be comfortable in their skin, or look great unless they lose weight. Furthermore, most women don’t know how to dress for their shape and, instead, try to shove themselves into smaller sizes. Meanwhile, if they wore what fits, or a different style, they would actually look much better.

Spencer is constantly surrounded by models in her business and knows first hand what it’s like to feel the pressure to be thin. She, like so many women out there, has tried every diet in the book. Her job, however, also gives her insider knowledge on how to dress for your size, shape, and how to enhance what you already have to make you feel like a star, which she is now passing to the rest of us.

Spencer created a new list of rules to live by (I know, more rules, but these are more like tips and tricks to pick from, promise) that any woman can follow to feel confident and look great without every using the word ‘diet’.

101 Things to do Before You Diet is an informative, easy read that covers all areas of confidence and style. With tips on how to fix your fattening habits, perfecting your posture to streamline your silhouette, finding the perfect pair of black pants, how to see through vanity sizing, how to find a hairstyle that fits your face, and how to keep your hormones happy, every woman can find new ways to boost their confidence, and their assets (finding the perfect bra is also a biggie) without starving, guilt or those deprivation mood swings.

Celebrate your body, don’t punish it.

I admit that I rarely use SPF products…I like being tan, and I guess the prospect of skin cancer hasn’t scared me into changing my ways. Plus, so many of them are thick and greasy and make you break out. But after living in sunny LA for almost 3 years, I’ve started to notice these horrible things on my face…freckles! I know they’re caused by sun exposure…so maybe it’s time to surrender to the ‘ol SPF.

Murad’s Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30 is a pretty good option. It has a light, silky texture that makes your skin feel smooth instead of sticky, and you don’t get the sense that your pores are being suffocated. However, you may go through this product quickly; I felt that to achieve adequate moisture, I needed to apply a much larger amount of it than the amount of non-SPF Garnier moisturizer I normally use.

Of course, the real test of SPF products is how you look hours later. While I did look a bit shiny (and keep in mind I have combination skin), I was impressed with the results compared to other SPF products. So here’s the verdict: It’s a good lotion, but the sun protection does still make you a bit more shine-prone than non-SPF products. I also admit I did not put on the recommended Environmental Shield treatment first, so that could improve its performance, though also add to the regimen’s cost.

We need fat on our bodies- it’s necessary so we can store fat soluble vitamins, like vitamin A, D, E and K and forms of fat, like fatty acids, are one of the building blocks of the cell membranes which surround every cell in the body. The way the cell responds to hormones, participates in the supply of nutrients and disposal of waste is dependent upon the health and integrity of these cell membranes.  Fat also helps to keep your skin watertight and moist, and assists your nerves in transmission of signals. Fat is also critical for various functions regulating inflammation, blood pressure, and clotting.

Remember what happens when men try to tell us we should all look like runway models.

There are some advantages to having a surplus of body fat, or in other words, being overweight. Not obese, mind you, but being above the chart norms used to classify healthy weights. Most women are above these numbers, and are still quite healthy.

A Healthier Heart

According to the British Medical Journal, women with larger thighs have a lower risk of heart disease and early death. Women with pin-thin legs faced the greatest chance of developing heart disease. Phew- I thought they were just to fill out a great pair of jeans.

Glowing Skin

Recent studies have found that between two sisters, the one with the higher BMI was judged to have a more youthful look. A sunken face can add years, so carrying an extra few pounds will help create a more youthful appearance- plus a fuller face wrinkles less.

Live Longer than Anyone Else

A Kaiser Permanente report found that gaining a few extra pounds can add years to life, while a federal study shows that overweight people actually outlive the obese, the underweight, and people at normal weight. Extra pounds protect against conditions that lead to premature death. It’s thought that fat stores can be used to help the body stay strong during illness and aid in recovery.
Increased Fertility

A London study found underweight women were 72 percent more likely to miscarry, while those women who carried a few extra pounds proved to have the opposite effect on their pregnancy.

Stronger Bones

Extra weight on your frame can ward off osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises are the best way to ward off the disease, and carrying a few extra pounds puts constant stress on your skeleton. Osteoporosis is less common in overweight women than thin women.

From grocery stores to dry cleans, you see that going green is the way to go and organic products are becoming more and more popular, especially in the cosmetics industry.  Up until recently, if you wanted a more “natural” make up you had to shop at health food stores, the selection was limited and well let’s face it, they weren’t very exciting. Well not anymore, and Nvey Eco is the answer that all you eco-friendly fashionistas are looking for. Made in Australia, Nvey Eco offers a full line of organic cosmetics for those who want to maintain a organic lifestyle without sacrificing the glamour.

Australia has much stricter laws that the U.S. when it comes to labeling something as organic so not only are the ingredients organic, the research, development and manufacturing of the products meet the strict guidelines of the Australian government and the Organic Food Chain (Organic Food Chain Certificate Number #0464). That means that Nvey Eco is paraben free, soduim laurel sulfate free, GM free (No ingredients are derived from genetically modified crops), cruelty free, talc free and contains no petroleum based ingredients.

Okay, so now here is the BEST part, we’ve all dropped a compact or eyeshadow before and you know that if it cracks or crumbles it usually is the beginning of the end for your product. This line is different. Because it is talc and paraben free if you drop it and it cracks or crumbles all you have to do is smush it back together in the container and it will become whole again. You will never have to throw out a broken eyeshadow or compact again.

I was a little skeptical myself when I was first introduced to Nvey Eco.  Would it really last all day? Does the eyeshadow have enough pigment to show up? Does the foundation go on smoothly? Do the eyeshadows really smush back together if you throw them to the floor and step on them?  Well I can answer a delighted yes, yes, yes and YES!