Beauty tips from the SUPER VIXENS! Read how Eartha Kitt, Sharon Stone, Rita Hayworth and other screen goddesses have stayed beautiful through the years.

(Source: Jack & Jill blog)

Apparently when things are bad and the economy dips we turn to lipstick and lipgloss to lift our spirits! Lipstick is a good indicator of how the economy is doing, and the two are inversely related. What that means for you slow folk is when the economy dips, sales of lipstick and lipgloss go up!

Hmmm, well I found that interesting! So if you’re feeling glum go out there with your bright red lipstick and smile girls…

(Source: Beautynomics)

YouTube - Watch Link

Oh-My-Garsh!! I couldn’t believe Robin Thicke looks like Jesus as he rides his bike and jumps over stuff! Ha! Oh well, I still love his music and him. But talk about successful celebrity makeovers…

Meanwhile in the land of Smarter Beauty:

Woo-HOo!! Just got my STIMULUS TAX REFUND… now the more important question, what to spend it on? I am hankering for some new gold makeup, any suggestions?

(Read full post at: Tax Stimulus Refund - Time to spend $600)

How to keep dyed red hair from fading!? - I feebly try to maintain my freshly dyed mahogany locks. To be honest, I am losing the battle. Please HELP ME!

(Finish reading full post: Keep Red Hair from the Dreaded Fade Factor)

Editor’s Note:

Time keeps tickin’ girls, another Smarter Beauty week has come and gone, yet I haven’t aged a day!

Just wanted to say thanks for reading and commenting and sending me great ideas!

Happy Friday!
Michelle

Oh Madonna, diva of my youth how you continue to shine amazes me!

50 and Fabulous, I have no doubt that the lady works her tooshie off to stay so vibrant at the halfway mark in life but makeup surely helps too! Ha! Luckily, the makeup maven behind Madonna’s new album cover, Shuemura Artistic Director, Gina Brooke, gave us the low down on how to get Madonna’s look!

Finish reading at BeautySnob.com!

Combat Dark Circles! Dark circles can be caused by lack of sleep or fatigue, heredity, aging, smoking, hormones or sun exposure. Learn how to combat dark circles at Savvy Skin!

Meanwhile in the lovely land of Smarter Beauty…

Red Alert Ladies! Read about all the carcinogens in our everyday beauty products that major cosmetic empires like L’oreal, Proctor&Gamble, Avon and Estee Lauder are aware of but continue to use!

Read full post: Cancer Causing Beauty Products

On a lighter note, check out Hairmixer.com, its super fun to see your face on a wealth of celebrity hairstyles. Turns out my friend Nick wouldn’t look so good with Mathew McConnaughy!

Oh-My-Gosh ladies you need to check out this site: HairMixer.com!

The site has hundreds of celebrity photos where you can magically insert your own image into the face portal section. Supposedly you can use the feature to see what hairstyles look good with your coloring and face, but come on! More importantly it’s bleepin’ hilarious!

Above is ME “Michelle” with Alyssa Milano’s chest and body, oh and hairstyle! Ha!

Here I am as “Michelle Jolie” ….ahhh! It’s so nice to dream!

By the way guys can use it too! This is my friend Nick, or should I say, “Nick McConaughy!”

Here is my buddy Paul Farrell gracing the covers of LIME magazine!

Go ahead and give it a whirl ladies, feel free to send me your funniest creations and I will add them to this post!!

(send to: Michelle)

Apparently it is linked to Breast Cancer, especially if your already genetically predisposed to breast cancer in your family, like Eileen! Which is why she was so concerned. She’s not ordinarily the type to jump on the paranoia wagon.

Well it got me thinking ladies, what else are we exposed to and is there really “Cosmetic Safety” laws or is it all about the all mighty DOLLAR and profit margins. Beauty is a multi-billion dollar business after all, and whenever that much money is involved, well…

I say we take care of ourselves, because you know those money makers could care less.

Few ingredients have been assessed for long-term health impacts, but those that have—and are known or suspected to be toxic—are still allowed in cosmetics. Eight of the most problematic are:

1. MERCURY
Often listed as thimerosal on ingredient labels, mercury is a possible human carcinogen, and a human reproductive or developmental toxin.
Found in some eye drops, ointments and mascaras.
2. PLACENTA
Placenta produces progesterone, estrogen and other hormones that can interfere with the body’s normal hormone functions and can lead to serious health problems—like breast cancer—when used in cosmetics. Sometimes used in hair relaxers, moisturizers and toners.
3. LEAD ACETATE
This compound of lead is a known human reproductive and developmental toxin. Prohibited from use in cosmetics in the European Union. Found in some hair dyes and cleansers.
5. PETROCHEMICALS
These byproducts of crude oil (appearing on labels as petrolatum, mineral (oil and paraffin) may contain known or suspected human carcinogens as well as harmful breakdown products or impurities from manufacturing processes (such as 1,4-Dioxane), which are not listed on ingredient labels. Found in some hair relaxers, shampoos, anti-aging creams, mascaras, perfumes, foundations, lipsticks and lip balms.
6. PHTHALATES
These plasticizing chemicals are probable human reproductive or developmental toxins and endocrine disruptors. Two phthalates often used in cosmetics (dibutyl and diethylhexyl) have been banned in the European Union. Found in some nail polishes, fragrances and hair sprays.often used in cosmetics (dibutyl and diethylhexyl) have been banned in the European Union. Found in some nail polishes, fragrances and hair sprays.
7. HYDROQUINONE
A possible carcinogen and probable neurotoxin and skin sensitizer, hydroquinone can also cause a skin disease called ochronosis, which leaves irreversible black-blue lesions on skin. Found in some skin lightening products and moisturizers.
8. NANOPARTICLES
Extremely tiny particles which are largely untested and unlabeled in personal care products, capable of being absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Found in some eye shadows, bronzers, sunscreens and lotions.

So I don’t want you guys to become paranoid beauty shoppers but it is quite alarming to discover so many ingredients that are known carcinogens that are still allowed in beauty products. Especially since they seem to be in products that are in habitual items, that are used often like deodorant, face wash, hair dyes etc.

RED ALERT! - This is particularly alarming - two of the highest concerned cosmetics are marketed to African American women! Bad enough that products like skin lightening and hair straightening promote the Anglo-Saxon version of beauty on our Nubian sisters but turns out they are also ripe with carcinogens. Skin Deep report shows that some hair relaxers and skin lighteners contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, placenta and petroleum byproducts that are linked to cancer, reproductive and hormonal problems, and some of them sensitize the skin, which means that dangerous ingredients are more likely to penetrate into the body. Yet another reason to follow your own path of beauty, whether you continue down the Beyonce route or if you decide to go Erykah Badu.

Well here is what we can do to start…

1. Tell the Major Cosmetic Companies that we care what is in our beauty products and we want SAFE ingredients:

Get involved and read the full article from: Breast Cancer Fund “10 Ugly Truths Behind the Myth of Cosmetic Safety”

If I had a nickel for every guy I saw sporting a fedora and a pair of black Ray-Bans well I would probably have a buck fifty right now! Truth is I don’t mind the look, it’s kinda suave and a throw back to the “Sinatra Rat Pack” generation. It’s swanky.

I also attended the Kanye West Concert on Friday, now the one look I am not fully convinced about is the multi-colored Ray-Bans that the young hipsters seem to be supporting:

While promoting her new film Interview in NYC, Sienna Miller sports two major trends for summer, red frames and Ray-Ban Wayfarers! (Source: People.com)

Drew Barrymore sporting the white Ray-Ban Sunglasses …

Nicole “Miss Trendy” Richie flossin’ the classic black Ray-Ban Wayfarers …

There was literally swarms of kiddies sporting white Ray-Bans at the Kanye concert, but I think it was also due to those white sunglasses with blinds for lenses that he sports that added to the trend. I personally have nothing against the colored versions, they just look really stupid on my pudgy asian face.

More power to you if you can rock them. Myself I am more of a fan of the Classic Ray-Ban Aviators sported here:

(Source: People.com)

What do you guys think? Welcome back vintage Ray-Bans? or Horrible blast from the Past?

ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS

My first observation in regards to organic makeup products is that it seems that hippies don’t care too much for packaging. Sort of makes sense, if you go out of your way to make sure that your makeup is made of wheats and oats, I doubt you would appreciate it if the packaging was made of plastic and wasteful bi-products. Hahaha, I kid, I kid!

Well here are some interesting organic choices if you’re interested:

Hemp Organics Lipstick

Hmmm, made with hemp seed oil and organic beeswax. Made in the good ol’ USA and contains no F, D and C dyes. The lipstick is lead free and contains no petroleum, wheat or gluten.

Makes one wonder how they go about creating the color huh? Maybe it’s magic. Well regardless they offer a wide assortment of colors for you to choose from, and from their description I think the overall effect is very light and sheer. Sounds nice.

Retails for $13.99

Check out their site at Vashon Organics, click here.

I recently got a haircut and color so I found this item particularly interesting.

Simply Organic Hair Color Care Kit

Simply Organic Color Care Kit is a 4-piece Color Care Kit for those looking to protect and care for their hair and scalp after a professional color service. The kit includes a Simply Organic Moisture Rich Wash, Simply Organic Moisture Rich Rinse, Simply Organic Rejuvenating Hair & Scalp Sealer and Simply Organic Color Therapy Treatment. Everything you need to protect your color investment. (Click on link above or image to purchase)

Retails for $72.00 at Hair Care USA

Aubrey Organic Lip Gloss

This looks promising and at a price range I can deal with (turns out much like organic veggies and clean living, these organic beauty products are pretty pricey). Aubrey Organic lip gloss is 100% vegan and is made of sunflower and jojoba oil, as well as African butters to make a base that soothes and moisturizes lips.

Contains no artificial colors or synthetics of any kind. Also made with a long list of rich emollients, plus natural food-grade PABA (SPF for sun protection. (Click the image or the link to purchase)

Best part is it retails for only $5.21

Happy Earth Day!

Now get out there kick off your shoes and go hug a tree!

I have been hearing about this StriVectin SD cream for quite some time now. Reportedly it is the best selling stretch mark and anti-aging over the counter lotion available.

Well with claims like that, I can almost forgive the price tag. Almost. The only problem is I have been in this beauty business too long to fall for the advertising hype just yet, if it works then I don’t mind shelling out $63 dollars for 2 ounces of product. But given my gut to product ratio I am going to need some feedback before I invest.

On top of magically reducing stretch marks StriVectin also claims to reduce the length, depth and volume of wrinkles. Here’s a direct quote:

“StriVectin SD was originally developed to repair stretch marks but has grown in popularity as a wrinkle reducing cream and claims of being “Better than Botox.” “

To shop or purchase the StriVectin SD lotion, click here.

Well that pretty much seals the deal, if I was a cat I would be sitting here dead! My curiosity has reached it’s peak! Has anyone tried this stuff? Does it work?

Hollywood actress and fashion icon Chloë Sevigny is launching Japan’s UT, a high street collection.

The Summer 2008 collection of T-shirts are said to be designed in collaboration with iconic Australian artists Keith Harring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. If you’d like to check out the designs, just visit www.uniqlo.co.uk.

(Source: CelebrityBrands.net)

SugarShock Beauty Blog features a great post about Bumble and Bumble conquering hair fashion! To promote this big-hair-getter hairspray, Bumble’s first new product in two years, the brand created a very cool street-meets-couture website featuring the transformations of a bunch of L.A. street hipsters.

(Source: Sugar Shock Beauty Blog)

MEANWHILE…IN THE LAND OF SMARTER BEAUTY…

When guys sport makeup, are they Rockstars, Freaks, or Geeks? See what others have to say regarding the issue. See the horror for yourself and finish reading by clicking here.

*Shudders* swimwear season is right around the corner, time to mow the lawn ladies! Read about my personal experiences with the female growth patch hair removal options and what I recommend to get you nice and smooth for Summer! Share your methods with others, the more you know… the more you know!

Well back to my pale blubbery reality. It’s warming up, we are in the midst of Spring and on the cusp of SUMMER! So… time to get the ol’ bikini region funderwear friendly.

I started shaving my zone sophomore year in high school, prior to that I use to let my garden grow wild and free. Well like every other novice the only advice I had to go on was my friends. Who told me to just use a regular shaving razor and soap. Ugh!

Horrible advice, this may work for some ladies but all it got me was razor burn and stubbies. Yeck! I guess my skin was super sensitive and I don’t know if it is just me but the hair would grow back within 2 days and be really short and harsh. I really didn’t like the outcome.

My solution was to start getting waxed at my local nail salon. Which in high school became an expensive and let’s face it semi-humiliating experience. At sixteen you are pretty self conscious of your stuff, when in hindsight it was probably the prettiest it will ever be, go figure. As it were I tried some home remedies;

I tried Nad’s Hair removal kit thanks to the infomercial. Let me be the first to tell you that stuff is utterly bogus. Here is the lowdown:

• It’s messy, it’s sticky, it sucks!
• It doesn’t work and I nearly scalded myself when I applied the gel.
• Plus when left unattended the stuff morphs into this crystallized science project.
• Don’t get it!

I finally settled on Nair’s Bikini Cream and have been using it for years. What I like about it is it’s very easy to use, it leaves your area silky smooth and I swear through the years that the growth has dwindled. I have been trying to convince my best friend to use it instead of shaving, and on her last trip to Cancun she finally did and she loves it too. It’s just my personal recommendation. All you do is apply it to the desired growth, leave it on for about 5 minutes (recommended is three, I do five) and wipe hair off with a hand towel. Leaves your skin really smooth and stubble free, plus in my experience it does not grow back as quickly. Price - $5.95

Well that’s my recommendation, what do you gals use? Sharing is caring, let’s all help each other!

To be clear I realize that men who work in the industry (ie. TV, movies, music) often have to become camera ready before getting in front of the lens. However more and more of these chaps are sporting the makeup off camera and in everyday life. Which brings us to the question at hand, Makeup on Men - Rockstars, Freaks or Geeks?

Wow! To think there was a time I would lay awake at night and dream that someday I would become Mrs. Jordan Catalano!! (My So-Called Life) Now he just looks like a greasy jerk with a Marilyn Manson fetish…

First of all what exactly is Pete Wentz famous for? What does he do? Anyone?

Well regarding his excessive eyeliner use, I couldn’t tell you who or what this guy does BUT I do know every time I see him in a photo he is wearing eyeliner. I guess we all have to be known for something?…

Lastly this is my friend Welfrey who is a makeup artist for M.A.C. makeup. Now granted he is of the gay variety and I give him some slack because I feel his makeup use is an extension of his craft, however would you not die if your man wore this much makeup?!?

Am I wrong ladies? I am a very open minded gal but I just can’t get behind men wearing makeup! The occasional tweezing of the unibrow is fine, lotion and cologne is a-ok, but I draw the line at eyeliner and face powder.

I need all the bathroom counter space as it is, and by god if I have to fight a man early in the morning for bathroom beauty time, well folks there will be bloodshed is all I am saying!

What do you guys think? Makeup on Men - Rockstars, Freaks or Geeks?