Category: Beauty

Beauty /

Epsom Salt Beauty Tips – Beach Survival Guide

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As beach season draws near, here’s an unusual idea that could prove useful: Epsom salt. Doctors say it can help treat sunburn and it also helps with summer beauty, as you’ll see in the two news releases below, which quote experts who have worked with celebrities:

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  • One quotes a celebrity skin care guru: Summer Skin Care Tips who says you should exfoliate before going out in the sun to rev up circulation, facilitating the elimination of toxins or impurities that may be trapped in the skin. In addition to detoxification, Ole Henriksen says exfoliation leaves the skin luminous, smooth and soft in texture, and it removes any excess dead skin, allowing for better absorption and easier application of sunscreen or lotion.

 

Here’s Henriksen’s recipe for an at-home dermabrasion resurfacing treatment he calls the “Shower smoothie:”

Ø  Ingredients: 4 oz. of Epsom salt, 4 oz. coffee grounds, 1 TSP eucalyptus oil and enough sesame oil to form a smooth paste.

Ø  Mix the Epsom salt and coffee grounds in a medium bowl, then add the oils and stir thoroughly until you have a smooth, but not runny paste.

Ø  Get in the shower, get wet and turn off the water. Use the entire palm of each hand to vigorously scrub your body for several minutes, from your neck to your feet.

Ø  Afterward, just rinse and glow. Your skin will feel smooth, and you’ll notice an immediate lifting and constricting of the skin.

  • The other quotes an award-winning celebrity manicurist Summer Beauty Tips who recommends bi-weekly pedicures to ease aches and pains, reduce swelling and disinfect blisters or lesions.

 

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Marsha Bialo’s suggestions:

Ø  Give your feet a comfortable place to rest by folding a bath towel and positioning it at the bottom of a bucket.

Ø  Mix half a cup of Epsom salt with some warm, soapy water to soften skin and calluses and dry out the bacteria from blisters.

Ø  Remove old polish with a cotton pad soaked with nail polish remover, cut nails straight across with clippers then file them square to remove sharp edges.

Ø  Soak for five minutes, dip a file into the water and use it to smooth your heels, the balls of your feet and the outer edges of your pinkie toes.

Ø  Add Calcium Gel Fortifier or Ridge Filling Base Coat by China Glaze followed by a bright, summery coat of polish, and then finish with Seche Vite top coat for a lasting shine.

Beauty /

Sally Hansen Special Effects for Summer Nail Collection

This summer, it’s time to get cultured—with pearls, that is. Sally Hansen introduces Pearl Crush™; a collection of eight new Special Effect polishes that give nails an eye-catching, shimmery finish. Inspired by the season’s iridescent trend, the Pearl Crush™ polishes have a unique combination of pigments that interact with layers of large, faceted glitter particles. The resulting effect: a 3D crushed pearl look that plays off light, lending a lustrous, vibrant look to summer manicures. Choose a softer tone or go dark—either way; you’ll want to wear these precious “pearls” everywhere you go!

SHADES: Oy-ster It Up!: Aw, shucks—this true white with faceted glitter catches the light beautifully, She Sells: Whether on the seashore or the city streets, this pale blush hue is pretty, pink perfection, Lady Crab: No need to pinch yourself—this dreamy hot pink really is as steamy as it gets!, Rainbow Fish: Casting off icy tones, this iridescent blue is quite the catch, Shell & Tell: The secret is out: A lovely lilac like this doesn’t come around every day, Mer-Mint: This splashy, soothing seafoam green is loaded with sea-inspired shimmer, Silver Scallop: Reflect on this modern take on metallics—a shape shifting silver that appears constantly in motion and Clam Digger: This lava-rock black stands out with flecks of phosphorescent-green glitter.

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PRICE & AVAILABILITY: This limited-edition Pearl Crush™ collection, SRP $5.99, is available beginning June 2015 at chain drugstores and mass retailers nationwide.

REATE A DAZZLING GRADATED LOOK WITH NEW SALLY HANSEN® INSTA-OMBRE™ NAIL COLOR

 

It’s official: Ombré is the look of the decade. From runways to red carpets, from highlights to home decor, a gradated wash of color is perpetually on trend. Now, Sally Hansen makes it easy to create a sparkling ombré manicure with new Insta-Ombre™ Special Effect.

Available in eight high-impact glitter shades, this clever and innovative ombre-in-a-bottle makes it easy for women to achieve the look in just three simple steps. First, apply one coat to clean, dry nails. Next, apply a second coat from mid-nail to the tip. Finally, apply a third coat to only the nail tip. Voila: A radiant, wash of ombre color at your fingertips.

As the first and last word in nail color, Sally Hansen offers eight shades to match every mood: Copper Cap: Beige that grows into a warm, copper glow, Cobalt Coat: Blue, from barely-there to intense, Layer On Lilac: A cool-toned take on purple,  Scarlet Spark: A true red that fades into a whisper, Gold Grade: Metallic glitter, from quiet to saturated, Fuchsia-Nista: A bright pink with the slightest hint of violet, Jade Fade: An enviable emerald hue, Grey-diant: A stunningly sparkled fade from light to black.

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PRICE & AVAILABILITY: This limited-edition Insta-Ombre™ collection, SRP $5.99, is available beginning June 2015 at chain drugstores and mass retailers nationwide.

SALLY HANSEN INTRODUCES BIG PEELOFF BASE COATTM

Everyone wants a manicure that looks perfect, resists smudges, and removes easily. Traditionally, it hasn’t always been easy to achieve those desired results. Now, however, Sally Hansen introduces a nail essentials to simplify and improve the at-home manicure regimen: Big Peel Off Base CoatTM .

For nail-art aficionados, glitter girls, and anyone else who lives for regular manicures, Big Peel Off Base Coat changeseverything. Nail polish remover can be harsh on nails, leaving them dry and brittle—and therefore, prone to breakage. Hard-to-remove special effects such as glitters, textures, and shimmers can damage nails further by scraping the nail surface and can be a time consuming removal process.

That all changes with the introduction of Big Peel Off Base CoatTM. This fast, convenient easy base coat makes it easy to remove glitters and other special effect polishes in a single step. Just paint on the base coat, which quickly dries to a transparent finish. Apply nail polish as usual and enjoy the manicure. When it’s time for a change, simply peel off the polish in one fluid movement. No scrubbing, soaking, or fussing—just a clean, healthy-looking nail.

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PRICE & AVAILABILITY: Sally Hansen’s new Big Peel Off Base CoatTM , SRP $5.99 each, will be available in June 2015 at chain drugstores and mass retailers nationwide.

Beauty /

The Jojoba Company Australian Jojoba Review – Must Have Product

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There are so many wonderful uses for the natural moisturizer Jojoba Oil.  This is considered to be a liquid wax that’s proven to work wonders on the hair, skin, and nails.

My first introduction to Jojoba Oil was through a routine hair appointment.  My hair is in a natural state (relaxer free) and my beautician suggested using JoJoba Oil on my scalp for nourishment.  I was excited to try this product because it’s important to understand your individual hair and follicle needs.

Jojoba Oil this is the perfect product for moms because pregnancy can often alter the skin.  For example, some women experience dryness or even worse stretch marks.  It’s suggested that you simply place a small amount in your hand (a little goes a long way) and massage into the skin.  The oil can be used on your face, legs, stomach area…basically the entire body.  It works as an all – over body moisturizer so don’t hesitate to apply as needed.

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Lastly, I am someone who has dry cuticles and nails.  My beauty regime includes adding moisture to the hands and feet.  When visiting the nail salon, my manicurist always applies two coats of olive oil to my nails.  But when I’m at home, I like to use two drops of Jojoba Oil on my cuticles before bedtime to serve as an all natural product with no chemicals.

The Jojoba Company’s 100% Natural Australian Jojoba Oil is reasonably priced and can be purchased at www.thejojobacompany.com

Additional Tips –

Visibly balances and soothes the skin

Is a great way to gently cleanse off makeup

Helps smooth lines, wrinkles, or stretch marks

100% paraffin free

Accessories /

How-To Guide: Get Dressed in 15 Minutes or Less

We have days when time is not of the essence.  We’re in a rush to get out of the door, whether it’s for a business meeting, play date, or even a trip to the grocery store.  The truth of the matter is that leaving your home (quickly) can become a second job.  It’s the reality of getting things accomplished while appearing to look pulled together.

No one wants to be that mom or girlfriend who lives in a baseball cap and sweats! Or even worse you can’t find anything to match in your wardrobe.  Trust me, I’ve been there which is the reason for this post – How To Guide:  Get Dressed in 15 Minutes or Less.

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1.  Don’t live your life without BB Cream, Mascara, Beauty Blender, and a bold shade of Lipstick.  BB Cream is a combination between Lotion, Foundation, and SPF 15 in one small tube.  This alone makes BB Cream a perfect addition to one’s makeup bag because you’re applying one product to serve three purposes.  Use your Beauty Blender to apply quickly with a whip of mascara and that red lipstick (helps to wake up the eyes after lack of sleep.)

2.  It’s great to own fifty pairs of earrings but when you’re in rush one needs a set that coordinates with anything.  Always keep a pair of studs available in diamond, pearl, silver, or gold.  Any of the various metals can coordinate quickly with your attire and help you accessorize quickly.

3.  In my case (and everyone’s different) ladies of today’s era should own a “Quick Hair” collection.  You’re probably asking, “what does that mean?”  Quick hair is a fun nickname for various hair style options.  For example, use of hair pieces, clip – in extensions, or even a hair wig can save time.  There are moments when you’re not aware of what could happen on a daily basis; owning a quality hair piece can be an investment.

4.  Nude pumps or flats are the latest go to girl’s bestfriend; they add a touch of sophistication to any attire.  This particular shade of pumps coordinates well with your skin tone and helps to elongate the legs.  They also match everything in your closet.

5.  Two words:  Spray Lotion…I often wonder, why did it take so long to create this product!  Honestly, I really don’t know how I lived my life without spray lotion.  For use, simply spray the area that needs hydration, rub in quickly, and go!

6.  Always keep a neutral tone blazer in your closet that has been dry cleaned or ironed.  One can wear a black blazer over a t shirt, blouse, dress, trousers, or with a pair of jeans.  The options are endless but the most important aspect to remember is that this item should always be hanging in your closet (not in a bag with wrinkles.)

I hope the tips that I’ve provided will help everyone get dressed in 15 minutes or less.  If you have any questions or want to share you’re own tips, please feel free to email me at kim@stylelifefashion.com

P.S.  Don’t forget your sunglasses!

Accessories /

Boulevard of Chic – Baltimore Fashion Truck Rally and Shopping Event

What’s happening this weekend near the Inner Harbor…Boulevard of Chic!  Baltimore’s fashion truck rally and shopping event will be hanging out on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at Pierce’s Park from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

I had a great time at this event (last Fall) and enjoyed the music, fashion, and art.  Don’t forget the event is open to the public; you will only need to pay for parking.

Last tip, make sure you wear stylish but comfortable shoes to ensure that you’re shopping with ease!  You may also need a large tote to carry all of your yummy items.

Visit the website for more information and don’t forget to snap photos at the step and repeat banner!  If you like this post, click here:  http://stylelifefashion.com/boulevard-of-chic-fashion-truck-rally-recap/

Beauty /

NYC New York Color Cosmetics Program Launch

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N Y C New York Color announced today the launch of a ‘Developed with New York Makeup Artists’ initiative, a program that supports the brand’s mission to deliver professional, innovative, yet budget-friendly go-to beauty essentials that have been developed with the expertise of trendy, young New York City-based fashion makeup artists. “We are thrilled to introduce this program, as it inspires confidence in New York Color’s truly efficacious and dependable products,” says Maylis Joppé, NYC New York Color Global Marketing Vice President. “The results of this initiative reinforce New York Color’s reputation as a credible, cool and trendy makeup brand at an unbeatable price”. We are proud that experienced, hands-on New York makeup artists weighed in on the development of our products to help empower the results that we deliver to women.”

The test panel was comprised of professional makeup artists based out of the New York City area, ranging in age between 25 and 35. Each makeup maestro embodies the New York Color brand culture and energy. New York Color believes in living vibrantly in color and style and creating the coolest new products in line with New York City Trends. The program kicked off with New York Color inviting this eclectic group of youthful, fashion-forward professional makeup artists, boasting experience and clientele, to evaluate New York Color products on themselves and a group of models. They were then asked to provide constructive and professional feedback on the products’ level of expert quality. The testing process was managed by the Coty Testing Institute.

The result was a beautifully crafted official “Developed With New York Makeup Artists” stamp of approval sealed on the final products reviewed by the artists. This endorsement reflects the New York Color brand’s true professional grade. The Makeup artists bring to the table rich experience in the fashion industry, backstage beauty at New York Fashion Week, advertising campaigns and television makeup application, in addition to sizable social media and blog followings. The brand believes that nothing feels more New York than New York Color and that is what these makeup artists represent.

About NYC New York Color
N.Y.C New York Color was created in 1999. Instantly redefining the US budget cosmetics category, it offers exciting innovation and great quality, packaging and shades that reflect the beating heart and energy of the city. Inspired by latest fashion weeks and NY trendsetters, N.Y.C New York Color has established itself as a favorite amongst young color lovers. Since January 2015, Demi Lovato has been supporting N.Y.C. New York Color as the face of the brand. For more information, please visit coty.com and www.newyorkcolor.com.

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My NYC New York Color Product Style:  http://www.newyorkcolor.com/us/ny-style

Beauty /

DIY Floral Hairstyles from Boston Salon Owner

Fact: nothing screams summer beauty more than flowers in the hair! So, how do you rock this look even if you’re not at a musical festival? Boston salon owner and 30-year industry veteran Mario Russo of Salon Mario Russo has provided some “hair-spiration” for ladies who would love to sport blooms, but aren’t sure of the best way. We love a good flower crown, too, but in the office…? Not so much!

 Below, please find two DIY hairstyles with just the right amount of summer fun!  Incorporate small and simple flower accessories that are perfect for any day and event.

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 Side Fishtail Braid

  1. Start with hair parted to the side. Take a front section of hair and Dutch braid hair along the hairline. Repeat with a smaller section of hair on the opposite side of your part. Tie off both braids with clear elastics.
  2. Gently pull apart each Dutch braid for added thickness and “messiness” and spritz with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to help with texture.
  3. Keeping the Dutch braids off to the sides, gather the top section of the rest of your hair (as if creating a half-up, half-down style), twist once and pin to condense hair and add volume before completing the full braid.
  4. At the nape of your neck, gather all hair to the side, with the exception of the side braids, and create a fishtail braid.
  5. Gently pull apart the braid for a full and messy look, and spritz this braid with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray.
  6. Pull the side Dutch braids back to meet the fishtail braid and pin in place. Hide the ends of your Dutch braids by tucking them under the fishtail braid at the base of your neck. Continue pinning until all braids feel secure and complete the look with a spritz of Bumble and bumble Does it all.
  7. Insert flower pins throughout the braids. Keep it simple yet elegant by adding 4-5 small flowers. No need to overdo it!

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Bohemian Braid Crown

  1. Start with hair parted in the center. Take two small sections of hair at the front and braid loosely on each side. Secure with clear elastics.
  2. Pull apart braids for added thickness and “messiness” and spritz with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to help with texture.
  3. Placing these braids to the side, gather the top section of the rest of your hair as if creating a half-up, half-down look. Split this section of hair into three parts in preparation for a third larger braid.
  4. Add the two side braids to the two outside sections of hair and begin one large braid at the back of head. Braid all the way down to the ends of hair and tie off with an elastic. Gently pull apart this braid and spray with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray.

Tip: For an even more care-free bohemian style, get rid of the elastic altogether and backcomb hair at the end of the braid while spritzing with a strong-hold hair spray. The look will stay all day!

  1. Use a 1” curling wand to loosely curl the rest of your hair.
  2. Pin side braids down to your head to keep them from sticking out, then insert your flower pins sporadically throughout the style. Once again, don’t overdo it! A few flowers go a long way.
Beauty /

ESSENCE MAGAZINE NAMES BLACK OPAL WINNER OF 2015 BEST IN BLACK BEAUTY AWARDS

Black Opal, the cosmetics and skincare line that offers limitless possibilities to enhance the diverse beauty and address the unique needs of skin color, is excited to announce that their Flawless Perfecting Concealer has been named a winner of the 2015 Essence Magazine “Best in Black Beauty Awards”.  In the May issue of Essence, on stands now, celebrity makeup artist Porsche Cooper says, “it provides excellent coverage in a wide range of warm and cool colors”.

Black Opal’s Flawless Perfecting Concealer is a hypoallergenic, full coverage crème concealer that easily blends away dark circles and other complexion imperfections. Vitamins A, C & E help protect skin while the crease-resistant formula is designed to give you natural-looking results without caking. Flawless Perfecting Concealer is available in 5 shades and has been developed for all complexions and skin types. The product can be purchased at retailers including Wal-Mart, CVS/Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, and OTC Stores nationwide, or online at www.blackopalbeauty.com ($5.25)

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About BLACK OPAL

BLACK OPAL offers limitless possibilities in cosmetics and skincare to enhance the diverse beauty and address the unique needs of skin of color. With this targeted focus, BLACK OPAL has solidified its position as the most trusted beauty brand for women of color.  BLACK OPAL is a global brand available in 30 countries worldwide.

 

BLACK OPAL products are available by visiting www.blackopalbeauty.com, Walmart, CVS/Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, and OTC Stores nationwide.