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)

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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

Well this is me, with freshly cut bangs and I dyed my once black hair RED! You can’t tell to much about the color here but trust me it’s red or at least it use to be. Which is why I pose the question, how does one sustain the vibrant salon fresh red hue when you are not naturally a red head?

I was actually trying to refrain from showering my tresses for fear of the veritable blood bath that would appear on my towel after every shower. Shoot, the color would even leave slight smear stains on my pillows! Problem is I think the rich mahogany color does wonders for my pale skin. Brings out what little color I have in my cheeks! But lordy, the maintenance is proving impossible. It’s only week 2 and I already feel that the hair color has morphed into a reddish brown at the roots.

Does any of this stuff work?

Anyone try the Redken Color Extend Hair Care line? Does it help?

Other tips people have told me are:

- Stay out of the SUN! Apparently the sun warps the color of any dye job and strips the color faster. Well I do this anyway because of my fair skin, but one of my favorite parts of dying my hair a different shade is seeing it glow in sunlight, so I find this news dis-heartening. Who wants to hide in the dark with freshly dyed hair?

- Upgrade your water! Additives (such as chlorine) that make tap water safe can also strip dye. Try new shower heads designed to remove color-dulling agents. Try iWater Shower Purification System ($50) or Jonathan Beauty Water Shower Purification System ($95, Sephora).

- Shampoo Less and Condition More! Apparently shampooing hair strips the color faster and leaves your cuticles open, thus making the strands rougher and less shiny. The conditioner locks in color by sealing the cuticles and making your locks shinier. Shiny hair reflects color better. The only probably I have with this advice is I have very fine hair and if I skip shampooing my hair gets greasy really fast. But I shall try my best to modify my showering regime to test out this theory.

Well wish me luck, and please if you have heard of a product or a method that helps maintain red hair color by all means SHARE!

Yesssss!! I just received the much talked about Stimulus Tax Refund, and I feel it is my civic duty to boost the economy and spend every last cent. Sure, I could use the money to pay off a nice chunk of a credit card or do the responsible thing and stick it in my dwindling savings account but you and I both know that I shall re-circulate that six hundred dollars back into our American economy.So let’s get to the crux of the matter, what to spend it on?

1. Korean Spas & Massages

Well I was recently introduced to the hidden realm of the Korean spas by my friend Kyung. Once you get over the blatant nudity and hard core “full body loofah” scrub it’s actually an awesome deal and every time I leave my whole body feels like butter. I recommend the: Olympic Spa in Los Angeles Read reviews on Yelp so you are prepared for the “culture shock” but it’s a definite “must do” if you have never gone.

2. Cosmetics & Makeup

I have been wanting to buy a gold eyeshadow of some sort. Not sure what brand yet, but gold eyeshadow. Anyone have any recommendations?

3. Sunglasses in Vision Care

I have been browsing this pair of Dita Sunglasses called “Xanadu” from ShopBop.com. I like the style and color, I like over sized frames and colors that are not common. These sunglasses cost $350.00! For that price I hope they instantly transform me into this model, but I have to admit designer sunglasses is my shopping weakness.

So far that’s what I plan on spending my Tax Refund on … what are you going to buy with your six hundred dollars?

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”

I just don’t get it, what is so fabulous about Claire Danes? She seduced Billy Crudup from Mary Lousie Parker while she was pregnant and now she is the new face for GUCCI jewelry!! What am I missing? What pray tell is so alluring about this woman? I liked her in “My So-Called Life” but that’s about it, since then she kind of rubs me the wrong way. I happen to think that Mary Louise Parker is much more alluring and attractive..

Well heres what the folks at Gucci say:

“Claire Danes is a modern icon. For me she is one of the most interesting young actresses on the international scene,” Gucci creative director Frida Giannini told fashionweekdaily.com. “She is very natural, fresh, and has a carefree attitude which can also be seen in the roles she has chosen. Claire’s sensual, confident beauty and her passionate, independent and strong character embodies today’s Gucci woman.”

Hmmm, I am still not convinced, but whatever. If the necklace she is sporting above is Gucci, well I hate to break it to you Miss Frida Giannini but she does NOT make me want to buy it. Sorry for ya!

(Source: CelebrityBrands.net)

Right in time for summer, you can add free beauty samples of Neutrogena Natural Radiance Bronzer to your spring/summer makeup collection.

The Neutrogena Natural Radiance Bronzer is unique healthy skin blend collection that features a palette of multiple sheer shades that blend together to flatter almost any skin-tone with a natural sun-kissed hue. The Neutrogena formula also includes multi-vitamins and a botanical conditioner to soften and refine your skin that is non-comedogenic (aka will not clog your pores), fragrance-free and hypo-allergenic.

Click here to get your FREE Sample: Neutrogena Natural Radiance Bronzer

(Source: MyBeautyMatch.com)

Well I am literally the color of snow, so let’s just say I am not a super HUGE fan of the beach. However I do super love beach hair, but I read and know for a fact that it is not healthy for your hair to be roughly combed when it’s wet! You should do so gently and with a wide toothed comb, thus I present to you the Babyliss Shower Combs!

BaByliss’s new shower comb is created with specially rounded teeth to make it really gentle on those snarls and helpd reduce breakages as well… finish reading Kiss and Makeup Blog! 

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?

This is how Mac Cosmetics describes the new Mac Skinsheen: Legs…bronzed to distraction. Seductive and cruise-worthy. A sprayable lightweight gel that unlike your fancy, never drifts. Brushes lightly and flawlessly over the skin…undetectable. For the ultimate secret application and smoothest sheen, try the 179 Body Buffer Brush. Skinsheen Leg Spray applies like a soft mousse to provide a quick, highly blendable application of colour to legs, arms, shoulders and decolletage.

Hmmm, wonder if it makes your legs ghostly pale like mine are and this model in the photos are?

Finish reading the full article at Talking Makeup Blog!

Well yet again, my year is chalk full of friends tying the knot! Let me tell you it never ceases to shock me the things that can and do go wrong. I am not trying to scare you but when I came across this article about how to create the ultimate “Wedding Day Survival Kit” well I felt it was my womanly duty to spread the word to you lovelies.

See how to create your own Wedding Day Survival Kit at The Beauty Addict Blogspot!

OK HELLO!! Had to say it Joan Collins is looking fierce!! No joke, this lady is 78 years old guys! 78!! What the hell? Umm…whatever magic kool-aide she is slurping she needs to share the wealth. Plus the diva is dating a guy that is 30 years her junior. Nice, now that’s aging gracefully…

Finish reading about Joan Collins and all her gloriousness at MyBeautyMatch Blog!

Meanwhile in the land of Smarter Beauty here is a quick RECAP:

We are all trying to find the magic formula to get rid of these bloody tiger tears in our skin, also known as stretch marks! But before you shell out the dough, let’s discuss what works? Does StriVectin SD work? Read more by clicking the link or image.

In honor of Earth Day I chose to highlight some Organic Cosmetic choices! Check out hemp lipstick, vegan lip gloss and organic hair color kit! I dunno whether to smoke it, eat it or wear it! (click on image or link to read full post)

I share yet another one of my many crazy secrets! Mainly my OCD habits and how they effect my life and work flow. Lucky for me my friend Valentina introduced me to the wonder that is “Gloves in a Bottle” … read full post by clicking image or link.

That’s all Folks!

Michelle

So I have undiagnosed OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) I am not kidding, ask any of my co-workers! I literally have this routine in the morning when I will notice if anyone has touched my desk and will spend the following 5-10 minutes adjusting and re-adjusting my stuff. It drives my peers nuts.

Second to that is my fixation with washing my hands, I can imagine thousands of little germies just hunkering down and making condos on my fingers. (I’m warped right?)

The unfortunate side effect of all this hand washing is that my hands get super dry and cracked. Depending on my mood and level of dryness I have an assortment of lotions in my desk drawer to suit my mood.

My friend Valentina recently told me about Gloves in a Bottle lotion and gave me a bottle as a gift.

Turns out the stuff is pretty cool, here is what I like about it:

• it’s not sticky
• it really does moisturize my hands without feeling greasy as other lotions that moisturize do
• non -scented - so it doesn’t compete with my lovely natural scent (aka my current fave perfume dujour)
• they have this whole scientific formula that basically boils down to bonding with your outer layer of skin, locking moisture in thus preventing dry cracked hands and nail beds
• plus it doesn’t wash off when you wash your hands so for someone like me, its a dream

It works, if your like me and can’t stop washing your hands every few hours or you just like to keep you hands moisturized, give it a shot.

Retails for $12.95 for 8oz of Gloves in a Bottle

That’s the bottle up there next to “Sammy” the Samurai salt fish dispenser on my desk. What? I like salt on stuff?

To purchase or check out Gloves in a Bottle, click here.