Tis The Season: Beauty Steals, Deals & Splurges!

I absolutely love this time of year!!  But it never fails that I procrastinate terribly when it comes to holiday gift shopping.  Each year I tell myself that I will not wait until the absolute LAST minute to get into the malls but every year, I fail.  lol  And it kind of sucks because I end up missing out on some really great deals.  Not to mention, that by the time I make it into the stores everything has been picked over. This year will be different, my cycle of procrastination will be broken! *fingers crossed*

So on my quest to "do better", I have been spending a lot of time web-surfing and window shopping in search of the best beauty steals, deals and splurges of this holiday season!  Here are 10 wonderful gift & stocking-stuffer ideas that I found!

Gift Ideas for Her

Yorokobi Super Orgasm Set by NARs

-This three piece limited-edition set features NARs signature shade Super Orgasm.  The set includes a Blush compact, Nail Polish and a Lip Gloss.

-This set is valued at $49 and retails for $39 at Sephora!

L'Occitane "Blockbuster" Shower Gel Collection

-This sampler set includes the following best selling shower gels (2.5 oz ea) from L'Occitane :  Lavender, Cherry Blossom, Pivoine Flora, Rose and Almond. And thrown in for good measure is the Shea Milk Ultra Rich Shower Cream for a deep and moisturing cleanse.

-Valued at $48, this set retails exclusively at Nordstroms for $34!

Little Bit of Bendel Candle Trio

-With this set, you get a trio of Henri Bendel signature candles.

-Each candle is 2.25" in height and you have a choice between the Fig, Pomergranate, and Peony trio.  Or, the Vanilla Bean, Tuberose and Lemon Verbena trio.

-Exclusive to Henri Bendel, this candle trio retails for $20!

The Starlet Limited-Edition Makeup Vanity by Tarte

-Designed, by Tarte, to be reused as a keepsake jewelry box, this limited-edition mirrored makeup vanity contains 24 eye shadows, Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess, Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Glory (shimmering peach) & Starlet (shimmering rose), Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose (soft petal pink), multiplEYE Natural Lash Enhancing Primer & Lights, Camera, Lashes! Clinically-proven Natural Mascara in Black.

-This makeup vanity is valued at $505 but retails exclusively at Sephora for $52!!

Perfumista's Perfect 10 by Bond No. 9

-This cute box set comes with 10 of Bond No. 9's most popular scents:  Andy Warhol Union Square, Bleecker Street, Bond No. 9 Signature, Chelsea Flowers, Chinatown, Eau de New York, Hamptons, Nuits de Noho, The Scent of Peace and Wall Street.

-For 10 5ml bottles, this set is available at http://www.bondno9.com/ and can be yours for $250!

Dream In Full Color Palette by Stila
-This Holiday Palette features 29 eye shadow shades, 7 blush shades, Stila's top selling smudge stick, and a 12 page step-by-step artistry look book to show you how to apply a variety of looks like a pro.
-Valued at $366, this wonderful palette retails for $39 and is available on Stila Online, Sephora, & Ulta Stores.

Gift Ideas for Him

Dolce and Gabbana The One for Men Gift Set
-This delicious fragrance dedicated to the Dolce & Gabbana man:  charismatic and seductive, elegant and sophisticated.  Dolce & Gabbana The One is for the man who never goes unnoticed.
-With this set you will get:  Eau de Toilette Spray (3.3 oz), Deodorant Stick (2.5 oz), and a signature Toiletry Bag.
-Valued at $100, this set retails for $80 at Macy's.

Kiehl's Ultimate Man Holiday Set
-This set comes with the classic Kiehl's formulas for men:  Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash (8.4 oz), Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream - White Eagle (5.0 oz), Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men (2.5 oz), "Ultimate Man" Body Scrub Soap (3.2 oz), Lip Balm #1 (0.5 oz), and Ultimate Strength Hand Salve (1.0) oz.
-This set is valued at $72 but retails at www.kiehls.com or Neiman Marcus for $50!



Kilian Straight To Heaven Eau de Parfum
-Created by Kilian Hennessy, heir to the Hennessy cognac family, this luxe fragrance is described as having a "rum scent deepened with nutmeg, Brazilian rosewook and cedar.  Inspired by rum, a life-giving alcohol blending the heat of the Carribean".....sounds Heavenly!
-Kilian is available at Saks Fifth Avenue and retails for $225 (1.7 oz).

The Art of Shaving Starter Kit
-Get "The Perfect Shave" courtesy of The Art of Shaving.  The Starter Kit includes:  Pre-Shave Oil (0.5 oz), Shaving Cream (1 oz), After-Shave Balm (0.5 oz), Trial Size Badger Shaving Brush and $25 OFF FULL SIZE KIT CARD redeemable at The Art of Shaving stores.
-This product comes in Unscented, Lemon, Lavendar, & Sandlewood and retails for $25 at The Art of Shaving stores or online, http://www.theartofshaving.com/!!


HAPPY SHOPPING!!!

XOXO

~Tiaja

Easy Tips for Choosing & Wearing Red Lipstick!

When I think of red lipstick, 4 words come to mind:  Bold, Timeless, Glamourous & Game Day!  lol  During my cheerleading days, red lips were a mandatory staple on game day....they were pretty much apart of our uniform.  In fact, we had "lip checks" before walking out of our lockeroom onto the field.  Pretty serious business, huh?  :)  And if you're are anything like me, finding the perfect shade of red can be a pretty difficult task.  I think I had a different red for each of the years that I cheered and even then, I cannot say that I ever found one that I truly loved!  Back then, it was more of a "need" than a "want".  I have always been one who tends to stick to the more natural colors.  Lately, however, this has changed!  I see more and more women wearing red lipstick and I absolutely L O V E it!  Especially when it's done correctly.

The Basics - Finding the right RED for you!

LaToya Anthony, Make-up Artist & Founder of Makeup Your Mind Hair and Makeup Professionals, says that anyone can wear the perfect red lip and the key is "choosing the right shade of red that compliments my clients complexion".  With that said...there are no real 'rules' to finding the right shade.  It's really all about what you are comfortable with and what makes you feel absolutely FABULOUS!  However, here is a suggestion you may follow when making your selection:

Simply ask yourself this question:  Do you look better in gold or silver necklaces?


MAC Russian Red


If you look better in gold, I would suggest trying a warm red lipstick. The warmer reds have orange, peach, or coral tones and generally look better with olive or yellow undertones.  Ones to try:  Iconic by Dolce & Gabbana, Jungle Red by Nars or Revlon Really Red.

If you are like me and look better in silver, you probably want to lean more towards a cool red.  Cool reds have blue tones and compliment those with pinkish or reddish undertones. Side bonus?  Blue based reds tend to make your teeth look whiter!!  Ones to try:  Sinner by Lipstick Queen, MAC Ruby Woo (which is my personal fave) or the cult classic MAC Russian Red (worn by Madonna during her Blonde Ambition Tour in the 90s).


The Application

Step 1:  Line your Lips

Unless you can find a red liner that matches your lipstick perfectly, I recommend using a neutral tone lip liner.  Otherwise, you will be left with the two-tone effect!

Step 2:  Fill in Your Lips

After lining your lips, fill them in completely using the same liner.  This will provide a nice base for you lipstick, helping it to stay on longer.  When lipstick begins to fade, you will still have the lip liner base underneath.  Anthony believes "a good liner allows definition to the lip that can really bring out your lip color of choice"!

Step 3:  Apply Your Lipstick

Whether you choose to apply straight from the tube or with a lip brush, apply your lipstick to the top and bottom lip and gently press your lips together lightly to blend.  Do not rub your lips together.  Rubbing your lips can cause the lipstick to smudge outside of the lip line.  Many Make-up Artists will suggest using a lip brush for a more controlled and precise application.

Step 4:  Blot Your Lips

Using a tissue, gently press against your lips to remove any excess lipstick.  Apply one more coat of lipstick and you're set!


Tips for Wearing Red Lipstick

*  When searching for your perfect shade, test the color directly on your lips!  Most women try out lipstick on the back of their hands which is often times a different shade than your face.

*  Avoid deep reds if you have thin lips.  They tend to make lips look smaller.

*  Apply red lipstick to a clean & exfoliated canvas. For a gentle exfoliant, try Sugar Lip Polish by Fresh.

*  Using a lip primer can be helpful if color tends to bleed into the cracks of your lips.

*  For a clean and professional looking lip line, take a small brush dipped in a small amount of concealer and trace around the outstide edge of your lip line.

*  Glossy or Matte?  Anthony says, "for the glamour girls, you can finish it off with a nice gloss or simply leave a matte lip for the pin-up girl look".  Either way, they both look great!

*  To avoid getting lipstick on your teeth, put your finger in your mouth (after applying), gently press your lips around your finger, then slowly pull your finger back out.  This will get rid of any excess color and avoid getting lipstick on your teeth!

Lastly, when wearing red lips I prefer to keep my other makeup subtle (especially for everyday red lips).  Opting to go light on my eyes, mascara, a soft blush, a well shaped brow area and dust the face with powder.  Otherwise, you may risk looking a bit clown-like and we don't want that!  ;)     

XOXO


~Tiaja

HELP......My Eyeliner Is Running!

I received the following question from one of my loyal readers, Meshelle.  She wrote:

Hey Tiaja....I truly love reading your blog page http://www.beautymarx.blogspot.com. I have bought several products you have suggested. Do you have any suggestions for eyeliners. I have been searching to find one that doesn't run by 2pm.

Thank you, Meshelle...I appreciate your support and you are not alone in your quest for an eyeliner that last.  I'm sure we have all experienced the case of the "runaway eyeliner"!  I can count the number of times that my eyeliner has expired on me.  It never fails....you think that your makeup is flawless only to look in the mirror and discover that your eyeliner has run, leaving you with the infamous raccoon-eyes!  Make up is supposed to last.  What is the point of wearing it, if you have to do a mirror check every 20-30 mins....that's no fun.  So in answer to Meshelle's question, I have found a few eyeliners that have passed the test!


Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

These pencils go on smooth, are waterproof and have a great level of pigmentation.  They are ideal for lining along your water line because this waterproof formula definitely stays put!  In fact, you will more than likely need an oil-based eye makeup remover handy to get this to come off completely (Side Note:  Meltdown Makeup Remover by Urban Decay removed this liner with no problem.).  However, aside from the "stay-put" action that this pencil delivers, the color selection is pretty much to die for!  There are currently 23 colors ranging from Lucky (brilliant deept cooper) to  Zero (matte black) to Ransom (bright iridescent purple) and they are BRILLIANT!  So whether you like to play it safe or tend to venture on the wild side, UD 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil is probably right up your alley!  Retailing for $18, you can find these eyeliners at Sephora, Ulta and of course on-line at http://www.urbandecay.com/. (Rating:  A)


NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner

The latest in the brand's eyeliner collection, this creamy liner deposits an intense level of color to the eye.  I did notice a small amount of flaking when applying but for the most part the application is fairly smooth on the skin.  And despite being smudge-proof,  it is easily removed with make-up remover.  I used an oil-free remover and it worked just fine!  The NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear liner has a twist up delivery with a built in sharpener is now available in 11 colors ranging between matte and shimmery finishes!   The colors tend to stay in the safe zone with such staple colors as Via Vento (black) however, there are a few "fun" colors like Abbey Road (Blueish-teal w/ a soft blue shimmer) and St. Marks Place (bright violet w/ a soft shimmer).  These eyeliners can be purchased for $23 at Sephora, Nordstroms and http://www.narscosmetics.com/.  (Rating:  B+)



Smashbox Limitless Eyeliner

This long wearing, waterproof liner promises to provide "bold definition for up to 8 hours".  Although it did not go on as smooth as the previous liners but once set, this liner was definitely smudge-proof and lasted for a fairly long time.  It stayed put on my lash line for hours however, I did notice that it tends to fade with time on my waterline.  But the good thing is that it did not run!  The Smashbox Limitless Eyeliner is available in 8 vibrant shades with such stand-outs as Indigo Ink (dark navy), Black Violet (deep purple) and Golden Ivy (deep green with golden pearl).  And the cap houses a unique built-in sharpener for your convenience!  This liner can be purchased at Sephora, Ulta and at http://www.smashbox.com/ for $19.  (Rating:  B)

L'Oreal HiP Chrome Eyeliner **Special Mention**

I have yet to personally use this product but have heard very good things about it hence, the 'Special Mention'.  Often compared to UD 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, I am told that these liners are pretty impressive!  They are soft and smooth, allowing for them to simply glide onto the lash line.  And in additon to its smooth texture, users raved about the color pigmentation stating that they are ammazing and very true to color.  L'Oreal HiP Chrome liners come in 4 colors each with an intense metallic finish (thus, the 'Chrome' effect), making them bright and bold!  In reference to its staying power, I am told that these liners wear well throughout the day with little or minimal smudging.  You can find the L'Oreal HiP Chrome Eyeliner at Walgreen's or your local drugstore for $8.49 (prices may vary).  They can also be purchased at Ulta or online at http://www.lorealparisusa.com/.

I hope the above reviews were beneficial in helping you to find an eyeliner that will stand the test of time!  Although my focus was mainly on eyeliner pencils, I did want to make mention that liquid and gel liners are great alternatives that generally last longer on the skin than most pencils.  It's just a matter of preference!  Also, remember that many cosmetic brands have eyeshadow primers which helps to maximize the longevity and intensity of your eye liners and shadows.

XOXO

~Tiaja

Luminizing Lotions - A Trick of the Trade & Treat for the Face!

Although Halloween has come and gone, it's never too late for a little trick-and-treating of the beauty kind.  So, I thought that I would provide my readers with a beauty trick of mine that I personally think of as a pretty awesome treat!  :)  When I first heard about illuminizing lotions, I was definitely intrigued to find out what they were all about.  I mean, realistically, the name alone should tell me ALL that I needed to know.  However, my first experience using one of these lotions was an EPIC FAIL!  I remember taking the cap off, squirting a pretty sizeable amount into the palm of my hand and rubbing the "lotion" onto my face....BIG mistake!  To my horror, I looked like a Glo-worm.  I was literally luminescent and glowing but not in a good way!  lol  And because I used such a large amount, it took about 2-3 washes for my skin to look like normal again. I had thoughts of returning the product to the store but decided not to and it sat in my bathroom for a week or two before my "A-Ha" moment!

One day while getting ready for a night-on-the-town, I came across this luminizing lotion again and decided that I would give it another try.  Only this time, I decided that a) I would use a much MUCH smaller amount and b) I would try mixing it in with my tinted moisturizer. Ooh La La.....Magnifique!  The combination of my tinted moisturizer and the luminizing lotion helped to even out and brighten my skin, while giving me that J-Lo glow (which i'm sure all of you ladies are familiar with).   I was hooked and have incorporated this technique into my beauty routine and especially when I need an added boost for lackluster skin!

I currently use Revlon Age Defying Spa Face Illuminator in Gold Light.  Not only is this product reasonable, retailing for $13.99, but it works just as good as any of the illuminators that the higher-end brands have to offer.  Equipped with a brush applicator, this product comes in 3 shades:  Pink Light, Gold Light and Bronze Light and is formulated with an SPF 18.  In addition, it is oil-free so it won't clog your pores or cause breakouts (which is always a plus)!  I am usually able to find and purchase this illuminator at Walgreens but I must say that sometimes it can be hard to find.  I truly hope that Revlon is not thinking of discontinuing this product....I would be heartbroken!

Here are some other illuminators that I have used and come highly recommended by yours truly:

Artificial Light Luminizing Lotion by Smashbox


The gorgeous shimmer of this luminizing lotion softens the way light reflects off of the skin to add radiance and help hide wrinkles and imperfections.  Caution:  Use a very tiny amount of this product or you may experience the Glo-worm effect that I spoke about!  This Smashbox Luminizing Lotion is available in Diffuse ( luminous pearl), Glow (luminous bronze) and Flash (luminous peach). (Retails for $26; http://www.smashbox.com/)


Illuminator by Nars

This light-reflecting liquid glides on to refresh and enhance the complexion, creating a shimmering incandescence. Wear it alone, or pair it with makeup to transform your skin from ordinary to extraordinary. The Nars Illuminator is available in Copacabana (glistening pearl), Laguna (brown w/ golden shimmer), Orgasm (peachy pink w/shimmer) and Super Orgasm (peachy pink w/gold glitter). (Retails for $29, http://www.narscosmetics.com/)


In addition to using these illuminators on your face, don't forget that they can also be used on your shoulders, neck & decolletage for a sexy, chic look and added glow!

XOXO

~Tiaja

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer - Sheer Genius!

During my time as a cheerleader in the NFL, the use of foundation was a staple in my "game day" make-up routine.  However, I never liked the way that foundation made me look nor was I fond of the way it felt on my face.  No matter which brand I used, they all seemed heavy on my skin and I always looked too "done up" when wearing it.  I did not mind it so much while I was dancing on the field.  I figured I was far enough away from fans for them to notice.  But I cringed at scheduled appearances and/ or meet & greets, self-conscious that people would think that I had on WAY too much makeup.  There HAD to be a better way and it came in the form of Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer.  I love love love this product!  In fact, I keep a tube in my travel bag to ensure that I will never forget it while travelling or on vacation.  ;)


Oil-Free Formula in Walnut

Lightweight Flawless Coverage is what she promised and Laura Mercier definitely delivered with her Tinted Moisturizer.  I use her Oil-Free Formula with SPF 20 and it is exactly what I wanted and what my skin needed!  It's not too heavy and provides the ideal level of coverage, leaving skin even & radiant while protecting from harmful UV rays.  I apply about a dime-size of this product all over my face, dust on some powder and i'm set!  For a more dewey look or finish, this product alone does the trick.  And the good news is that the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer comes in 9 different shades & two formulas: Regular (for normal skin) and Oil-Free (for acne prone, sensitive or oily/ combination skin), making it pretty easy to find a formula and a shade that works for you!

Still not convinced that you should use a tinted moisturizer over foundation?  Maybe this will help:

Advantages

• Light coverage, not a heavy look
• Most provide SPF protection
• A moisturizer and cosmetic all in one
• Easy and quick to apply
• Most last all day
• Available in a variety of shades to match every skin tone
• Two products in one is less expensive

Disadvantages

• Won't cover blemishes as well as foundation
• May not off enough coverage for some women
• May give a shiny appearance dependent upon the formula used

If a tinted moisturizer is what you are looking for, I HIGHLY recommend this product   After one use, my BFF was hooked....and she's not an easy sell! lol  It's with good reason that Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer has received the following accolades:

• InStyle Best Beauty Buy - Best Tinted Moisturizer  (May 2011)
• Essence Best in Black Beauty  (March 2011)
• Allure Best of Beauty (September 2010) 

Visit your nearest Laura Mercier counter and see for yourself!  Or, for more product information, go to www.lauramercier.com/.

XOXO

~Tiaja

Achieve Nail Envy with Nailtiques!

I never had problems with my nails.  They always grew in long with a natural curve and pretty strong...I definitely did not need to put acrylic on them!  But what can I say, I was young and getting your nails "done" was the "in" thing to do and so I did it.  Not to mention, I thought they looked great!  I remember my mother's friend, Pam, and her signature red acrylic-treated nails with the square-rounded edges.  They were so classy to me and I begged my mother to get my nails done.  When she finally said "Yes", I was too excited!  And that began my relationship with w/ acrylic nails and the committment of getting them refilled EVERY two weeks.

After years of wearing artificial nails, I decided one day (some years back) to go au natural.  Well if you are familiar with this process, you know that once removed your nails are left paper thin, dry, brittle and full of little ridges!  My nail tech, bless her heart,  was able to salvage the length but there was nothing she could do about how weak my nails were....I don't think I made it home without breaking at least two.  I hated the condition that they were in and that began my search for a wonder treatment to make my nails healthy again!

After searching high and low for this 'wonder' treatment, I stumbled upon Nailtiques during a visit to The Beauty Center.  Nailtiques offers a variety of products and formulas for treatment and maintenance of your nails.  My treatment of choice was the Nailtiques After Articial Treatment Kit and it worked WONDERS! This kit is formulated to treat nails that are recovering from acrylics, gels and silk wraps which was exactly what I was searching for.  So I purchased the kit and left the store feeling excited about my find and anxious to see if this product would deliver the results that I so desperately wanted.  Once home, I began my treatment I M M E D I A T E L Y! 

Nailtiques After Artifical Treatment Kit

• Kit includes:  1/4 oz. Formula A, 1/4 oz. Formula B and 1/4 oz. Cuticle & Skin Gel.
• Benefits:  Naturally rebuilds damaged nails back to a healthy condition.
• Application:  Begin treatment with Formula A. Upon completion, graduate to Formula B. Apply the Cuticle & Skin Gel sparingly and regularly to dry areas of the skin and cuticles

After 4-weeks of religiously applying these products to my nails and cuticles, I began seeing a noticeable difference.  They appeared healthier, the ridges had grown out leaving a smooth surface and they were stronger than ever!  The Nailtiques After Artificial Treatment Kit did everything it promised and much much more....I was thoroughly pleased with my results.  And knowing what I know now, I would have easily spent in excess of the $20 retail price for this kit. 

Nailtiques....my nails THANK YOU! 

Also offered in their Nail Protein Formulas are the following:

• Formula 1 - Maintenance for Healthy, Flexible Nails.
• Formula 2 - Treatment for Soft, Peeling, Bitten, Weak or Thin Nails.
• Formula 3 - Care for Naturally Hard Nails
• Formula 2Plus - Treatment for Excessive Problem Nails

Nailtiques products can be purchase on their website, http://www.nailtiques.com/, The Beauty Center, &  Walgreens (stores & on-line).

XOXO

Let There Be Light - Eye Brighteners to the Rescue!

Blue Monday by Annie Lee

In a perfect world, we would get that recommended 8 hrs of sleep each night!  But 'life' happens & instead, the barking of the neighbors dog has kept you up all night OR that fussy two year old just would not stay put OR maybe you let your BFF talk you into going out on a 'school night'. All of which may leave you feeling like the woman in the "Blue Monday" portrait to the right.  But whatever the case may be, sleep deprivation is written on your face and the tell-tale sign is in your eyes!

Have no fear....It happens to the best of us and when I need to tackle a case of the 'late nights & early mornings', I reach for one (if not all) of these 3 products:

The Bright Eyes Recovery Gel by Elemis

After dabbing a little bit of this gel under my eye and orbital bone area, there is a cooling sensation and slight tingling that lets me know that it is working. The Bright Eyes Recovery Gel by Elemis is packed w/ Blue Cornflower water which helps to tighten and calm the skin; Chamomile and Mallow which serve as an anti-inflammatory and cooling agent; and Horsetail which helps the body to absorb calcium as well as repair the skin tissue. And I must say that I notice a difference within minutes! The skin under my eye appears more plump and less sunken in, eliminating the appearance of bags.  The 'effects' of this gel usually last for hours however, feel free to reapply as needed! Retails for $66 (0.3 oz) at Nordstom.


Touche Éclat' by Yves Saint Laurent

I have been using this product for years and in my opinion, it should be a staple in make-up bags around the world! Keep in mind, I use this solely as a highlighter and not a concealer. Two clicks of this wand and a few dabs to blend it in and you are good to go...The Eclat works wonders on tired looking eyes!  It is an excellent highlighter that awakens and brightens the eye area without looking cakey and sinking into fine lines.  It is not touted, "8 hours of sleep in a magic pen" for nothing. And it now comes in 8 different shades! Retails for $40 (0.1 oz) at Sephora or anywhere YSL Beauty products are sold.


Photo Op Under Eye Brightener by Smashbox

I generally use Photo Op Under Eye Brightener by Smashbox for touch-ups throughout the day.  Simply because it's light and provides me with an instant 'pick me up' for tired looking eyes!  It contains Vitamin E, red wine extracts, peptides and marine collagen which all aid in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  And the handy brush applicator makes it easy to use....just apply and blend using your fingers and Voilà!  Photo Op retails for $19 (0.24 oz) at Smashbox online, Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom & other beauty retailers that sell Smashbox products.

After a long night or long flight, you can not go wrong with either of these products.  They do the job for me everytime!

XOXO