I KNOW WHAT BOYS LIKE!

Okay, so this is a BIG, MASSIVE beauty secret... all you sexy ladies, listen up!

I have discovered the absolute BEST scent ever... it'll make the boys swoon, I promise!

Miss Marisa is a roll on oil bottled to perfection with every sensual and desirable scent in the rainbow! It's literally a bottle of pheromones!

Miss Marisa is sweet and tropical, fresh and cool. With notes of plum blossom, cassis, fresh mint, and waterlily, you'll feel like you've been transported to a tropical island!

I've been wearing this religiously for the past six months and I kid you not, I get at least 2 compliments a day (most of the time from the guys... niceee)!

A word (or several...) from the company:

"Everyone knows someone like Miss Marisa. Pretty without working at it, smart without being a show-off. In high school, she was the girl who could hang with anybody - geeks, jocks or the popular crowd. Beloved by all and totally cool."

Finally, someone has discovered the exact ingredients needed to lure the men... no lingerie necessary! A dab of this oil and you're good to go... sexier then ever!

A Girl's Guide To.... Primers

We're starting a new section here at Beauty Banter... A Girl's Guide to... It'll be filled with need to know info on the most important beauty and health issues surrounding us girls. Basically it's a girl's guide to being beautiful - from the inside to the outside. And if you wanna print them out or read them all together, simply scroll to the right and click on the label "a girl's guide."

Today's girl's guide is all about primers!

So, why prime, you ask? Well, a primer does a number of things. It fills in lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. It also helps to create an even skin tone. It controls oil secretion and shine. And it readies the face for smooth, long lasting make-up application. It's the perfect base for make-up as it mattifies the skin for an even, luminous effect. Without a primer, make-up would seep into your pores and lines, it would "cake" and within hours, your skin would start to look shiny, like your make-up needs a pick-me-up. So, basically, a primer does just that: it primes the skin for that fake flawless look that we're all striving to attain.

Smashbox started the primer frenzy when they introduced their now infamous, Photo Finish Foundation Primer. Make-up artists went banana's over this product that literally "creates a perfect canvas for foundation application... reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores for visibly softer skin." It aided in flawless skin alone, or under make-up.

Recently, Smashbox has introduced: Photo Finish Primer Light (oil-free), Photo Finish with SPF 15 and Dermaxyl Complex ( an advanced peptide treatment that is supposed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time), Photo Finish Bronzing Foundation Primer (same as regular photo finish but with a bronze hue), Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer (Blend (counteracts discoloration), Balance (brightens dull skin) and Adjust (reduces redness), depending on your individual skin concerns), and, the newest installment, the Hybrid 2 In 1 Luminizing Primer (pictured), from the Green Room Collection. Basically, it's Artificial Light in the inner tube and Photo Finish in the outer one. And the tube is recyclable!

With all of these new primers on the market, it's hard to know exactly which one is right for you... I tend to stick with the original. There's a reason that they are attempting to duplicate it into 8 similar products- because it works!

Another product that works to even skin creating a smooth canvas for make-up application is Clinique's Pore Minimizer Instant Perfector. I first posted about this product when fellow beauty whore, Alex, reviewed British Vogue's spring/summer must haves (back in January 07). Apparently, Kate Winslet doesn't leave home without this product! And I've gotta say, I get it. Not only does this product truly produce flawless looking skin, it also de-shines, giving you a matte finish. Foundation slides right on and you're never oily! This is a must-have product for people with sensitive and/ or oily skin. It's so gentle and it really works wonders without any fear of break-outs!

I recently tried Cargo's blu_ray High Definition Oil-Free Mattifier. This primer refines pores, minimizes lines and wrinkles, and creates a flawless look to help control oil and shine throughout the day. It adds a natural glow to your skin that is perfect to wear alone or under make-up. I use it prior to foundation because I want full coverage, but if you don't need full coverage, this is a great product to use in lieu of a pressed powder as it virtually has the same qualities... sheer coverage with oil control. The company says that this product was formulated for, "use with high-definition film." Hence, you're ready for your close-up!

Another interesting product that has hit that market place is the "eye-primer." Essentially, it's the same thing as a face primer - allows for a smooth palette for make-up application, fills in lines and wrinkles, and keeps eye make-up on longer. I already doted on Fresh's Anise Wrinkle Eraser (read post HERE), but Paula Dorf also makes an Eye Primer that's pretty amazing! It's a "light-textured cream that smoothes and neutralizes the eyelid so eye color looks true and stays on." And no matter what tone your skin is, this is a neutral base that works on everyone!

So, that's the skinny on primers -- with a few of my favorites mentioned. Do you have a favorite PRIMER? Tell us and we'll include it in the post!

Also, check back periodically as I test new primers that deserve a mention in the Girl's Guide to Primers!

When To Say WEN...

Hello fellow beauty buffs…

It’s been a bit since my last post so I figured I would let you in on my absolute to die for hair prescription. I’ll admit, I’m growing out a “fun” haircut that included thick bangs and a short-ish length. Only now, in the in-between stage, I have a mullet. As they say, necessity is the mother of all invention, so I have searched to find products that will grow thick, shiny, healthy hair FAST. Here are my two “miracles”…

First off, everyone knows that Sodium Laureth Sulfate is really harsh and stripping for the hair shaft and it is, unfortunately, the number one ingredient in most shampoos. So I began my quest by looking for cleansers that didn’t contain this ingredient. What I discovered is an AMAZING product called WEN Cleansing Conditioner by Chaz Dean. Chaz is a lovely man and a renowned Celebrity hair stylist who also does tons of runway shows. He created this product because he had seen so much damage from hair dye and styling tools. This cleanser is also a conditioner and it is unlike anything I have ever tried. It doesn’t foam or sud like normal shampoos, but it still cleanses thouroughly, yet without stripping the hair of natural oils. I’m on my fourth bottle and I swear to you, it has literally changed the texture of my hair. It gives you the, “hot girl in high school hair”. I kid you not. It comes in a bunch of lovely scents that are for all different hair types so read the description to find the right one for you. I’m obsessed with the LAVENDER because it contains witch hazel. Also try the hair oil, I live for the FIG scent to use as a styling aid, for frizz, and as a night treatment. Trust me, you’ll be so happy.

I also began taking a hair growth supplement called VIVISCAL Women. It’s a nutritional vitamin that contains a bunch of women specific ingredients like Folic Acid with a North Pacific Marine extract. After just two months of twice daily use, my hair feels noticeably fuller and stronger. I am committed to a six-month regimen, at the very least.

Ok, lovvves, now you know…

Xoxo Di

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE

Nurturing your body from the inside out is key. Beauty isn't just about the aesthetic... it's also about the interior, what we don't see on a regular basis.

I'm slightly obsessed with Whole Foods. I absolutely adore their product department, and I've recently taken a liking to the juices too.

One of my favorites is G.T's Kombucha Synergy Organic & Raw juices. Basically, they are 16 oz of pure health! The packaging boasts that the drink will "rejuvenate, restore, revitalize, replenish, regenerate." And it goes wayyyyy beyond that!

"Kombucha is the Western name for sweetened tea or tisane that has been fermented by a macroscopic solid mass of microorganisms called a "kombucha colony," usually consisting principally of Acetobacter-species and yeast cultures." (source)
"The tea is cultured for 30 days during which, essential nutrients form, such as, active enzymes, viable probiotics, amino acids, antioxidants, and polyphenols."

The Kombucha in the Synergy Organic and Raw drinks supports:

• Digestion
• Metabolism
• Immune System
• Appetite Control
• Weight Control
• Liver Function
• Body Alkalinity
• Anti-Aging
• Cell Integrity
• Healthy Skin & Hair

After drinking this tea, I literally feel completely revitalized... like I've just undergone a total body cleanse! It's great for hang overs as it is packed full of electrolytes!

So, next time you're at Whole Foods, make sure to buy one of the 9 delicious flavors (I live for the Strawberry Serenity and the Cosmic Cranberry)! Your body will thank you!

Oscar Spotlight: Heidi Klum

Here's how the hair and makeup team created Heidi Klum's stunning mod look...


"Hairstylist Helena Faccenda and Victoria’s Secret make-up artist Linda Hay used Victoria’s Secret So Sexy hair products and Very Sexy Make-up to create Heidi’s look.

Helena created a soft mod updo inspired by Faye Dunaway, circa 1968 Thomas Crown Affair. To get the this updo, Helena backcombed Heidi’s roots to give the hair a little lift. Hair was smoothed over with a soft tooth brush. To finish the look, hair was tied into a couture shaped ball at the crown of her head. “To complement Heidi’s amazing couture gown, I channeled Elegant Horst’s 60's Vogue cover."

As for the makeup, Linda focused on the eyes, the absence of color and a neutral lip.
The skin was sun-kissed with a beige/bronzy look from head to toe using a mix of Bare Bronze Gleaming Self Tan Tint and Daily Glow Moisturizer to her whole body and a light sweep of Ooh La La Shimmer Powder to line her legs, arms, and shoulders. For her face, Linda used tinted moisturizer to even out her complexion and a little concealer around the eyes and nose. A light dusting of translucent powder and Goddess Bronzer to shape and contour her face.

For the eyes, Linda used Black Velvet Eye Pencil to draw a very thin line on the top lash line. Then using the 2 lighter Charcoal colors in the Satisfied Eye Very Sexy Mosaic palette, she lightly smudged the pencil and drew in the crease. Linda used the white shadow in the Mosaic palette to highlight right under the brow line and a dot at the inside corner of the eye. Underneath, she also added a thin sweep of the lightest silver to gently define the eye. Next, she applied individual lashes to the top and bottom lashes and about four or five applications of Very Voluptuous Black Mascara for supreme definition. To make the eye pop even more, she used Sparkling White Eye Pencil.

The lips were kept matte. Linda ussed Ginger Spice to line her lips and filled them with a combination of Whisper and Spontaneous to finish the look."

Oscar Spotlight: Marion Cotillard

I already doted on Marion's gorgeous Old Hollywood glam hair. Well, here's how you too can achieve it!

Frederic Fekkai's Robert Vetica tended to the tresses of winner, Marion Cotillard.



THE LOOK: A modern day Veronica Lake scooped off to the side and accented with a low side part.

THE PRODUCTS:
Fekkai's Coiff Shape and Set Mist
Fekkai's Coiff Magnifique Finishing Cream
Fekkai's Coiff Fini Sheer Hold Hairspray

Oscar Spotlight: Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner's hair was HOT! Here's how to achieve her fabulous do:

Frederic Fekkai's Adir Abergel styled presenter, Jennifer Garner's locks.



THE LOOK: To get the look, Adir started by applying from root to ends Fekkai Coiff Shape and Set Mist. Adir then parted hair for a severe side part, hiding all of Jen’s short bangs. He blow-dried small sections of the hair with a round brush and pinned each section back. Set the hair for about 10 minutes, Adir took a 1" curling iron and curled her entire head. He then sprayed some Sheer Hold hairspray by Fekkai and pinned all her hair back into a low deconstructed bun. Making sure to leave the severe side bang and a few random pieces out to frame her face.

THE PRODUCTS :
Fekkai's Coiff Shape and Set Mist
Fekkai's Coiff Fini Sheer Hold Hairspray

And The Winner Is...

Oscar 2008 came and went with a myriad of cinematic talent... some winners, sadly, more losers. But what we here at Beauty Banter really care about is...

Who Gave Best Face on the Red Carpet!

Here are the nominees (in alphabetical order):


Anne Hathaway - she looks ravishing with the red lips, dark eyes and hair pulled back into a clean and tidy pony (also loving the length of her hair - not short, yet not too long...)


Cameron Diaz - She's got that whole "beach look" thing going on... Messy hair, light make-up, subtlety. Cam's a hot chick - she always looks good, but I'm not sure if this is what one rocks to the most decadent awards ceremony in the world... maybe a hair brush is in order?


Heidi Klum - I LOVED this look! Heidi is a true glamizon, a real-life Barbie doll. Dark eyes, light lips, a posh up-do. It's a total throwback to Old Hollywood (I'm thinking she's channeling a bit of Ms. Grace Kelly...)


Jennifer Garner - I was literally stupified when I saw Jen Garner strut her stuff on the red carpet. She looks HOTTER then ever. LOVE the updo with the side-swiped bangs, the dramatic eyes with a focus on major lashes, and the light lips. Oh and I'm mildly obsessed with this hair color. This look ROCKS!

Jessica Alba - I'm digging the updo, very Grecian with the braids. Her skin glows... it always glows, but even more so here. Maybe it's a pregnancy glow... I don't know. But she looks good. Lips and eyes are pretty - simple, nothing outrageous, nothing risky. It all works.

Katherine Heigl - I feel like I've seen this look on her a dozen times before. Tight curls, light eyes, dramatic, red lips (very Marilyn Monroe). It suits her well but I'm ready for a change. And P.S. her lippy is the same exact hue as the dress... hmmm...

Keri Russel - Another decent up-do. Make-up is pretty too. It's all a little safe. Kind of blah. She looks good, it just doesn't pop! On another note, I cannot believe how SICK her body is... and she had a baby like, what, a year ago?!

Marion Cotillard - Side part, long, wavy locks... loving the hair! The French actress is super sexy and naturally beautiful. She may have won the Best Actress Award, but she's also winning best face too! Tres magnifique!


Miley Cyrus - Let's forget for one second that this teen Disney star actually presented at the Academy Awards, what is she doing with her lips? I kid you not, she struck this same pose in dozens of photos. Poor girl must want plumper lips... hey, she's rich enough... buy them! At least she wasn't trying to look too much older then her age... besides the pout, she's looking good. Hair is cute, make-up is fresh and pretty.


Penelope Cruz - If I could be reincarnated (looks-wise), I'd want to come back as the hotness that is Penelope Cruz. She is sophisticated, sexy and absolutely stunning. I love the half-up hair. It frames that gorgeous face of hers perfectly! She's a Spanish goddess, plain and simple. Muy caliente!


Renee Zelleger - Two words: All Wrong. The hair is a hot mess (the cut is horrendous) and her make-up looks like it's caked on. And her brows scare me. I don't know why, but they make her look like an alien. I'm sure she's really sweet though.

What did YOU think? Who wins best face???

Splendid Sunday Reads...

From the Splendicity community, comes this weeks best!


Viva Woman looks at how to prevent the growth of milia seeds around the eyes.

Shopalicious has hit upon the perfect handbag to pair with spring's almost-neon brights...

Makeup and Beauty Blog brings us a MAC Fafi Makeup Tutorial: A Black and Gold Smokey Eye.

Beauty and Fashion Tech tries the Ten Years Thinner Plan by Dr. Christine Lydon.

Her Accessories has gone to the birds and has the jewelry to prove it!

My Beauty Match asks, Are you using the right skin care cream or are you wasting your time and money?

Savvy Skin tells us The Truth About Beauty.

Sugar Shock tells us about a Supermodel-approved Makeup Remover.

Canadian Beauty is giving away 2 Summer Prize Packs worth $150 each!

ShopDiary discovers that Twenty8Twelve is now at Shopbop.com.

Stiletto Jungle says upgrade your tote bag collection with Marc Jacobs Standard Supply.

Beauty Bento Box attends the local launch event of the Sunsilk Life Can't Wait Campaign.

Tops 2 Bottoms experiments with a black and white sheer and lace dress by Zara.

Style Manila can't wait till HE by MANGO hits the streets of Manila.

Spa Beautifully wants to share a hip skin health spa in San Francisco with you.

Style...a work in progress reads a good book (and gets a good workout) with Vivienne Westwood's Opus...perhaps the ultimate coffee table book (in that it actually is the size and weight of your average coffee table...measuring just over 2.5 feet by 2 feet and weighing in at 55lbs).

NY Spender shares her pink safari fashion.

Get back to basics -- Temptalia tells you what MAC brushes you have to have.

Shoe Blitz loves these sexy and sophisticated Alexander McQueen striped pumps.

Have a very splendid week!

Weekend BEAUTY Reads...

Canadian Beauty tells you about Stila Cherry Crush Lip and Cheek Stain.

Angie Vargas, founder of EyeshadowCult.com tells you about her battle & road to recovery from severe cystic acne.

StyleBell uncovers The 411 on Brazilian Keratin Treatments!

Beautynomics covers the Sunsilk's Life Can't Wait Press Launch in Manila.

Bionic Beauty reviews the luxury Noevir Skin Care lineup!

Kyle reviews billybBEAUTY Brushes at Face Candy.

Find out A Touch of Blusher's current favorite toner.

Beauty and Personal Grooming tells you the benefits of using French clay as a spa product

SugarShock is coveting Rachel Bilson's Jumper premiere beauty look and tells you how to recreate Rachel's stunning makeup.

Makeup Moxie's lusting for the new Andy Warhol Union Square Perfume by Bond No. 9

Beauty Blogging Junkie discusses her favorite purple and purple-packaged products.

Discover a Mystery Beauty Powder at Musings of a Muse from the MAC Fafi Collection that you may have missed out on!

Beauty Anonymous loves " Lunch at the Delhi " from OPI India Collection.

Girl Gloss explain why Stila Lip Glaze is an all time favorite.

Manhattan's favorite socialite, Tinsley Mortimer, dishes exclusively to Beauty Banter on her must have products... and on being Dior's Beauty Ambassador!

Raging Rouge discovers a way for Aurophobics to embrace the Spring 2008 gold shadow trend.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic washes her face with oil, and she likes it!

Temptalia has a tutorial using the Fafi Eyes Quad #1!

Spoiled Pretty is convinced that Urban Decay’s main ingredient must be crack. Find out which product she finds most addictive.

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog crawls into a scent chamber to sniff Frederic Malle perfumes at Barneys New York and lives to tell the tale!

The Beauty of Life stumbles upon fantastic all-natural brand Chloe & Jane -- and has a couple products she's just dying for you to try!

All Lacquered Up gives you an exclusive preview of Zoya's summer collections: Gossip and Chit Chat

Rediscovering Mario Badescu

I LOVE to give myself at home mini-facials. You know, wash, exfoliate, steam, mask, pick (okay, fine, you're not supposed to pick but I can't help it!), moisturize... the whole nine.

So, last night as I primped for an evening of pre-Oscar events, I rediscovered an old time favorite skin care line. Mario Badescu. If you're not familiar with the line, you need to be. They make a variety of products that suit all skin types - from acne to dehydrated! And it's so easy to navigate! All of the products come tagged with C (for combination), O (for oily), S (for sensitve), D (for dry) and so on. It's important to mention that the products are very well priced too!

They make an incredible drying lotion that literally clears pimples on contact. With it's unique blend of Calamine and Salicylic Acid, the lotion heals and soothes those puss-filled pests overnight! It's actually quite famous. And it's only $17.00 and lasts forever! For more info on the Drying Lotion, click HERE.

I'm also quite obsessed with the Flower & Tonic Mask. It's meant for combination/ oily/ sensitive skin (thus it reads C, O, S). It's a purifying and calming mask with a Kaolin formula that helps to absorb dirt and oil and decongest pores, and Balsam Peru ingredient that soothes minor redness and irritation. I left the mask on until it hardened (about 20 minutes) and then rinsed with warm water. My skin was soft, smooth and glowing!!!

Next, I used the Ceramide Eye Gel. It's emerald green, gooey and absolutely divine! This is by no means your conventional eye cream! The Ceramides and nourishing Herbal Extracts help to diminish puffiness and tired eyes. The lightweight gel is incredibly soothing AND **hint** if you store it in the fridge, it's a fabulous morning pick-me-up for tired eyes! The best part is, it's only $18.00! I applied the eye gel after the mask and before my moisturizer and my eyes were instantly brighter and tighter! It was the perfect eye treatment to use prior to a night out on the town!

I'm feeling the need to try more Mario Badescu products asap as I am so happy with the results of these.

Anyone out there have a favorite? (Hair crazed Jenny raves about the seaweed cleansing lotion)... Something I MUST TRY? Let me know!

Tinsley Mortimer: Dior Beauty Ambassador

Manhattan's favorite socialite, Tinsley Mortimer, has another title to add to her impressive resume: Dior Beauty Ambassador. And after you read this exclusive interview with Tinsley, you'll know exactly why Dior chose her to speak on behalf of their coveted product line!


If you're not familiar with the New York social circuit, you may also know Tinsley from her handbag line... Samantha Thavasa by Tinsley Mortimer... or from the countless photos of Tinsley that grace the society pages of Vogue and W Magazines.



Tinsley was turning heads long before becoming New York's socialite extraordinaire. I've known Tinsley for many years now (we worked together back in the day) and she's always been a natural beauty - gorgeous blond locks, a coveted clear complexion, a sexy bod to die for, and, most importantly, she's one of the sweetest girls in all of Manhattan (and trust me, that asphalt jungle can make you mean)!



Tinsley speaks exclusively to Beauty Banter about her must-have beauty products!

DiorShow Blackout Mascara (a Beauty Banter fave!)
"This mascara is the absolute best!! I am addicted to fake eyelashes and with DiorShow Blackout you don't need any. It is the one makeup product I cannot do without. It is thick, but not clumpy, and there is no need to keep applying it throughout the night. It lasts until you use your makeup remover."

Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect in Fuchsia Poplin
"Gloss is always the finishing touch and this is a great sheer pink, perfect for spring. Be certain to reapply your gloss often so you look as fresh as you did when the evening started."

Dior Addict High Shine Glossy Lipliners
"These new lipliners are my favorite; I have never used anything like them! The finish isn't
matte but rather sheer and shiny with just enough color to subtly outline your lip. It creates a
very natural look and is almost like a gloss that lightly outlines the shape of your lip without overdoing it. You can even fill it in for a little more pigment and it has a nice smooth glossy quality to it."

Dior Sun Couture Bronzer Palette
"I actually use this as blush. The palette has three colors and, when mixed together, they create a nice dark shading effect for the cheeks. I like blush to create a shadow on your cheeks and make your face more angular. I don't like pink on the cheeks because I feel it makes my face look fuller and accentuates that fullness. The color of the bronzer is perfect to give you the right amount of definition on your face."

Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen
"I use this under my eyes to cover up dark circles. Also, it is great to cover up blemishes. The little brush applicator is great to touch up even the smallest of imperfections."

Diorissimo Eau de Parfum
"This is my new favorite scent. It is a classic and my mom used to wear it when she was young. It is so light and fresh. The scent makes me feel feminine, girly, and very me. I use it for day and night."

L'Or de Vie Eye
"This eye cream is amazing!! It is so creamy and rich but not too heavy and thick that you feel like you have to rub your skin too hard just for it to absorb. It is made from the shoots of grape vines (at Chateau d'Yquem in France!) so it has the most natural and potent form of antioxidants for your under-the-eye area which we all need!! I use it under my eyes before I go to bed every night."

L'Oreal Auction for Ovarian Cancer Research

We, here at Beauty Banter, love when companies give back... after all, true beauty is the ability to help others...

This just in...

L’Oréal Paris is continuing its tradition of honoring Hollywood’s most talented women with the L’Oréal Paris 2008 Red Carpet Compact—an exclusive gift from L’Oréal Paris to film’s leading ladies. The stunning star-inspired compact features Swarovski crystals set in 18K white gold on classic plated 18K yellow gold with a “red-carpet” ruby crystal embedded in the push-button opening.


Now L’Oréal Paris is auctioning two diamond versions of the compact made with 115 brilliant-cut Kwiat Diamonds, for a total of 3 carats of diamonds, set in platinum on yellow gold, with a ruby clasp. Valued at $4,900 the compacts are being auctioned through eBay Giving Works (www.ebay.com/lorealparis) to benefit the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF).

So, check it out by visiting www.ebay.com/lorealparis and make a bid!

(Let us know if you win!!!)

Clear Skin Is IN...

I'm a sucker for any product that promises clear skin... hey, any product that'll give the effect of clear skin.
It's tricky to find a concealer that actually provides full coverage without looking like you're trying to conceal something (i.e. cakey, crusty, color is off, etc.).

Enter DermaBlend Cover Duet Custom Corrector. The entire line is pretty amazing for covering blemishes, dark circles, sun damage... you name it! But it's this fancy two-in-one wand that has won my heart... and cleared my skin!

What it is:

Total coverage of localized skin flaws using pink and yellow pigments that you custom blend to match your skin tone. Lasts up to 16 hours; unifies skin tone and texture.

What it's for:

Visible veins on nose and cheeks
Scars
Pigment disorders around eyes and mouth (sun damage)

I use the medium duo (although you can choose from light, tan, and deep) and basically I create my exact color by blending the two sides of the wand - - - pink and yellow. Yellow combats redness while pink tones down dark circles. Covering a zit will require a different "blend" then covering, lets say, a scar. But now you can do it all with this amazingly easy and convenient double-ended applicator!!!

I'm so obsessed with this product, I've been carrying it around in my purse for daily retouches. It's definitely full coverage so you don't need to reapply very often (this is heavy duty stuff), but I feel safer knowing that I have it with me (like a crutch).

Oh yes, I am officially a DermaBlend addict!

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE

MAC's new Fafi Collection is turning make-up addicts worldwide into giddy, colorful and bold fafinettes!

I've finally had an opportunity to test a good portion of the products and I'm happy to say that I've found my new Spring blush! (insert golf claps here)

Fafi's powder blush in HIPNESS is just that, hip! Don't be fooled by the bright, almost neon color in the case. It actually blends into the skin as a gorgeous apricot hue.

For all of those devout lovers of Laura Mercier's Apricot Face Tint (read our raving review HERE), you MUST try Hipness asap. It won't disappoint. And if you have yet to use an apricot hue on your cheeks, stop procrastinating and start blushing! It's a pretty universal color that looks great on all skin tones!

SUNDAY POLL!!!

Spring, oh Spring, come hither!!!!

Sunday Beauty Reads...

Canadian Beauty gives you her thoughts on Clinique's Blended Face Powder.

EyeshadowCult.com's Angie shares her guide to clear & healthy skin, because real beauty starts with beautiful skin!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic uses her Cover Girl Outlast Lipcolor as a stain, and loves it!

Savvy Skin tells you how to Save Money While Looking Fabulous.

SugarShock finds a magical cure for winter-pasty skin: Per-fekt Body Perfection Gel.

Temptalia visits the Kryolan store and factory for some science-behind-the-beauty scenes, plus she learns all about the brand and its products!

A Touch of Blusher looks into the cult mascara in the making.

Beauty Banter gives you the truth about sunblock... what you need to know to protect your precious skin... (you'll be shocked!)

makeup loves me shares her exclusive interview with fafi, designer of the most recent MAC line!

Beauty Blogging Junkie gets advice from Ouidad herself on how to love your curls!

Beauty Anonymous is anticipating the arrival of Boots No 7 Protect & Perfect Line in the US.

Raging Rouge proudly announces she is in a Long Term Relationship... with her hair!

Beauty and Personal Grooming shares 12 beauty uses of baking soda

Glossypink finds an eyeshadow primer that is the perfect fit!

In honor of Valentine’s Day, Spoiled Pretty is showing their readers some love - by hosting FIVE GIVEAWAYS. Get on over there and enter today!

The Beauty of Life shares a truly colorful runway-to-reality look in this week's Trend-Filled Thursdays column!

If you're a lip balm addict and a chocoholic, you'll definitely want to check out Makeup Moxie's review of the new On10 lip balms.

The Muse shares her haul of MAC Fafi and gives her first impressions, reviews, and general babbles about this hot new collection from MAC!

Go backstage at Tracy Reese with All Lacquered Up and Sally Hansen.

Splendicity Weekend Beauty Reads...

From the Splendicity community, comes this weeks best in beauty, fashion, and shopping. Enjoy!

BEAUTY
A Touch of Blusher reports on the must-try look for spring 2008.
15 Minute Beauty Fanatic checks out Tarte's Ready, Set, Glow kit, which is perfect for your tropical vacation!
My Wardrobe Today gives honest reviews of some beauty products she has tried recently.
Oscar Blandi shares with CelebLOOK how he gave Faith Hill her gorgeous do for the Grammy's.
Aging Fabulous asks if anyone has tried Freeze & Go products.
Raging Rouge falls in love with the NARS Shanghai Lily Collection.
Exclusive interview with Fafi about her new MAC line at makeup loves me!

FASHION
Top Model Amy Lemons dishes on her favorite beauty products with Beauty Banter... and her catwalk beauty tips!
Haute & Bothered's Got a Sneak Peek at Jovovich Hawk for Target's Upcoming Line.
Snarkstress has been ruminating on whether Sarah Jessica Parker looks like a foot and would love to hear your uncensored take.
STYLEnosh asks, "Can you really be stylish in frigid temps?"
Style...a work in progress muses on a certain type of fashion paranoia in The (Un) touchables.
The Fashionable Kiffen dares to break a fashion rule by mixing black and deep blue.

SHOPPING
Teen Style Lounge wants you to listen to what your tee is saying and also offers another chance to view the Hottest Finds from the b5media Beauty & Style channel.
Let's Go Shopping is giving away Gift Certificate Worth $35 From Heels.com.
Wardrobe Oxygen offers some wardrobe suggestions for those who live in warm climates.
The Latest Luxe enjoys some peep-toe fun with the Gucci Newton Bootie.

MAC does it the French Way

French graffiti artist, Fafi, has teamed up with MAC Cosmetics to produce one of the most exciting collections to date. And it's finally landed at a MAC make-up counter near you!

Fafi, known for her drawings of sexy and sassy girl characters , and MAC have created a line that is so bold and innovative, you'll want the entire collection (including the limited edition Fafi figurines and make-up bags) to parade around your bathroom counter.

Personally, I'm obsessed with the packaging. The compacts and lipstick tubes boast original Fafi drawings... tres girly with a street edge, much like the pigments (bold pinks and purples with every hue in between).



MAC's Creative Director, James Gager, says this about the collaboration:
"Fafi will certainly appeal to a younger generation, but I believe the world of Fafi is one that all ages will enjoy. Everyone wants to escape into a world of fantasy and imagination, and that’s what this collection offers."

And MAC's SVP of Product Development, Jennifer Balbier, had this to about the Fafi look:
"The look is toned-down skin with heavier emphasis on eyes and a girly mouth. She’s colourful, but the texture is light... We were inspired by the look and feel of spring. That entails colours with a punch, but not raw or too bold. So you can wear a little or wear a lot."

Hmmm... I can't wait to get my hands on these products... I'm seeing loads of color in my future... just in time for Spring! Here's to the girly-girl in all of us!

To view the entire collection, CLICK HERE.
What products are you DYING to try???

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

Love is in the air!

So, sit back, enjoy a nice glass of wine, crank up some sappy love tunes, take a delicious bubble bath, light some organic soy candles... and remember, if you give love, it'll always come back!

As for me, I'll be celebrating the big day with my single friends!

LOVIN’ it up with Sweet Almond and Oranges

I’m always on the lookout for the ultimate beauty combo, one that can provide a good scent and luscious skin. My favorite, for DRY SKIN only, is a good creamy wipe, off cleanser. So I have never been so satisfied as I was to find LA FLEUR ORGANIQUE gentle cleanser with sweet almond and orange blossom. This pink cleansing lotion smells like sweet fruit and soothes away any wintery redness. This is a great segue into spring...




Another product I love, that’s a derivative of oranges, and just as healthy is the DR. OBAGI SYSTEM PROFESSIONAL -C SERUM 20%. It’s a lightweight slightly sticky solution that makes your skin glow. And glowing skin is a year round desirable.

Xoxo Di

St. Valentine... Day 3

A juicy, pink lip is a necessity, especially for the big V day. Yesterday, as I was walking down Robertson Blvd. in Los Angeles (looking for my Valentine dress, to no avail), I passed the Kiehl's store, and of course, I had to venture inside.

The chalkboard sign outside read: "Kiss Me With Kiehl's." And I thought to myself, what a great tag line!

Well, it looks like Kiehl's is offering a fabulous trio of yummy lippies exclusively for Valentine's day.

And, as a gesture to all you lovers out there, Kiehl's is introducing two new shades for the holiday.
French Rose, a subtle, sheer pink hue, and Downtown Peach, a bolder yet equally sheer golden-pink color .

The Kiss Me With Kiehl's Lip Gloss Trio comes in a plastic travel case... colors include French Rose, Downtown Peach and any other favorite that you may have (I've always gone gaga for the Berry 1851, a sheer hint of red that's both feminine and provocative). There are 8 other colors to choose from.

This Valentine's Day, shine that pucker and put it to the kissing test!

PRICE TAG: $43.50 for the trio

St. Valentine... Day 2

Exfoliation is good for the body, the soul, and the tender touch of your lover's hand. Product Body (you remember them from The Best of Scrubs Week...) has recently launched two new limited-edition scents just in time for Valentine's Day. 

Crush on You, "the ultra plush sugar shea scrubby wash" is now available in the amazingly sexy Dark Chocolate Almond Scent and Sparkling Champagne.  Both come in 4.75 oz. jars and are sold together for the stealing price of $20.00!

What better way to spend the big day than with a tub and scrub!  Some candles, relaxing music, a nice bath and that incredibly hot man... (or scratch the latter and do it on your own)!  Either way, a bath is just what your body has on the mind...

And speaking of baths, also try Molton Brown's Intoxicating Davana Blossom Foaming Bath Oil. Incredibly rich oil that foams (and feels like silk) coupled with an incredibly sexy floral scent.  

The perfect indulgence for your bathing experience... use alone or with the man of your dreams!  Either way, it's a romantic gesture that won't go unnoticed (or unappreciated)!

300ml for $67.00

W Mag Cover: March 2008

Scarlett Johansson and Natalie Portman pose to pimp out their new movie The Other Boleyn Girl (this is one of my FAVORITE books of the last couple of years... can't wait to see how they've ruined the movie... kidding). I'm really starting to adore W Magazine. For years, I had a love/ hate relationship with the fashion rag, but their recent covers are sexy and explosive!

So, how are YOU FEELING about this cover... hair, make-up, fierceness??? Tell us in the comment box!




**Magazine hits newsstands on February 26.

St. Valentine... Day 1

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we will be doing a countdown... each day until Thursday, we'll be posting products perfect for your Valentine urge to splurge (via you or that hot and sexy significant other of yours...).

So, for Day 1, we have...

Peter Thomas Roth's Lips To Die For (A Lip Facial)

Putting aside that we are obsessed with the name (die is one of my all time favorite terms... I use it as in, "no way," "shut-up," "are you kidding," "dieeeeee!"), this product actually delivers the softest, most kissable pucker in town.

A precious pout is something that we, at Beauty Banter, feel is vital (remember our Sara Happ post during Best of Scrubs Week? And long before that, guest editor Di Gaeta wrote about Too Faced Lip Injection Mask in a Fabulous Pout Part Deux). The PTR Lip Facial combines the best of ALL lip care into one convenient trio.

What it is:

Three treatments to smooth and soften lips.

How it works:

Heavenly Lemon Sugar Scrub - Sugar and glucose to rid your pout of dead skin, condition and moisturize. Apply in circular motions and rinse with warm water.
Super Smooth Lip Putty - A lip mask of sorts. Natural clay that promotes moisture and exfoliates dead skin. It feels a little goopy, but once you rinse it off, your lips are so soft and luscious, like a baby's bottom! Apply the putty and leave on for 2-3 minutes.
Pink Bombshell Lip Balm - Avocado oil, Vitamin E and shea butter nourish, hydrate and protect lips. Not to mention, this balm is SO good that it actually adds a sheen rose hue that lasts for hours (I've been using this non-stop... before bed, in the morning, through out the day, after my lip treatment... I'm loving it!). Apply as needed.

With Valentine's Day quickly approaching, what better time to get your pout pucker-ready? This is a MUST-HAVE for the lip conscious individual... Buy it today and treat away! Your lips (and that guy you have a MAJOR crush on...) will thank you!

PRICE TAG: $60.00 for the trio.

SPLENDID Saturday Reads....

From around the Splendicity community, comes this week's best in Beauty, Fashion, and Shopping.



BEAUTY
Frugal Faces: More on Makeup at The Space Between My Peers.
Beauty Secrets Revealed loves her Homemade Apricot And Papaya Face Pack For Glowing Skin.
Beauty and Fashion Tech provides skin swatches of her three favorite Stila Eyeshadows.
Temptalia has a tutorial for an easy, but totally fabulous, look for Valentine's Day!
Canadian Beauty is giving away a huge basket of John Frieda hair care products!
Viva Woman tells you how to use your face serum with your moisturizer the correct way.
Makeup and Beauty Blog has a great Shu Uemura Makeup Tutorial: Go Pastel for a Fresh Spring Eye.
myBeautyMatch has discovered that La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream now comes with Swarovski Crystals!
Savvy Skin discovers some new beauty products.

FASHION
Her Accessories is loving the new color forecast for Fall 2008, she's found yummy accessories in some of the hottest colors.
Petite Fashionista asks if you are Clueless about Petite Fashion.
NY Spender reports on Liz McClean's Fall/Winter '08.

SHOPPING
Shopalicious beckons spring weather with this to-die-for Phillip Lim jacket -- on sale!
ShopDiary discovers the recently unveiled Prada's Trembled Blossoms video.

The Truth About Sunblock!!!

Until recently, sunblock protected against UVB rays but NOT UVA rays. UVB rays cause burns while UVA rays cause wrinkles and a greater risk of skin cancer. So, you have to wonder, why would American sunscreens opt out of UVA protection?

In America, the amount of UVA protection is not quantified, however, in Europe it is. Thus, we end up with SPF protection of up to 70 yet little to no protection against the harsh and potentially deadly rays of UVA.

Mexoryl, a breakthrough ingredient creating buzz through it's ability to protect against UVA filters, is commonly used in European sunscreens but rarely used in American ones. This is due to the FDA not approving the ingredient.

However, in 2006, L'oreal, which also owns the patent to Mexoryl, was given the go ahead to use the drug in their sunscreens. From my understanding, it is only legal in SPF 20, nothing higher. If you want a higher SPF, you have to get it in Europe or Canada.

Sunscreens to buy on line with Mexoryl (La Roche has a massive arsenal of products to choose from):

La Roche Posay Anthelios Dermo-Pediatrics SPF 40 Sunscreen Spray
with Mexoryl SX and Mexoryl XL

La Roche Anthelios XL 60spf

La Roche-Posay Anthelios TINTED SPF 50+ Creme

L'oreal UV Perfect Ultimate Protection Fluid with Mexoryl XL SPF 50 (although, for some reason, I can't find this anywhere on line!)

L'oreal RevitaLift UV with Mexoryl SPF 15 (this one is the only Mexoryl sunscreen sold on the L'oreal website in the United States... I guess that 15 is better then no protection.)

I recently discovered a fabulous sunscreen for sensitive skin that not only protects against UVA and UVB rays, but it's also ultra-sheer, with dry touch technology, PERFECT for oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin types. AND you can purchase it in the states!!!

Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Sunblock with Helioplex with SPF 55 or SPF 70

What is helioplex?

Neutrogena says, "Helioplex™ technology contains two FDA approved sunscreens, Avobenzone and Oxybenzone. Avobenzone does an excellent job of blocking UV rays—especially UVA rays—but its protection against UVA rays can weaken after prolonged sun exposure. Helioplex™ technology combines Avobenzone with Oxybenzone so that Neutrogena Sun Protection products can effectively screen out UVB burning rays—and help stop UVA rays from penetrating skin's surface layers."

It's not Mexoryl, but it's a start... and definitely better then the other sun protection products on the market!

So next time you feel like baking in the sun, PLEASE remember to protect your skin from both UVB AND UVA rays!!! Sunscreen isn't effective if it's just guarding you from UVB... in fact, that's only 1/3 of the protection needed (fine for sun burns, but not for skin cancer)!

And why won't the FDA approve Mexoryl in higher SPF's??? We need to demand more (or fly to Europe to buy our sunscreens...)!

Celebs the New Super Models???

Amongst the fashion week mayhem (read the latest, up-to-date beauty news via the Beauty Blog Network by clicking HERE), I've decided to recap the latest celebrity/ beauty campaigns.

Feel free to add one if I've missed it (in the comment box below).

• Drew Barrymore for Cover Girl
• Jessica Alba for Revlon
• Sheryl Crow for Revlon
• Anne Hathaway for Lancome
• Juliette Binoche for Lancome
• Nicole Kidman for Chanel Perfume
• Diane Lane for Neutrogena
• Eva Mendes for Calvin Klein Fragrance
• Amanda Bynes for Vaseline
• Sarah Michelle Gellar for Vaseline

It seems that only cosmetic giant, Maybelline, is still using super models!

Thoughts???

Model Beauty Advice

Top model Amy Lemons has graced the pages of countless fashion mags, including the covers of Italian Vogue and American Bazaar.



You may also recognize her from her Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Tommy Hilfiger campaigns.




She's strutted her stuff on endless runways like Versace, Calvin Klein, Chloe, Ralph Lauren, and Marc Jacobs (to name a few).

Not only is Amy a super hot super model, she's also a super sweet fellow beauty whore!

In this ***exclusive*** Beauty Banter post, Amy tells us what products she can't live without (and trust me, she's used every product out there)!

Amy's Picks (click on the product to buy):

NARS Laguna as bronzer
Stila Poppy Convertible Color as lip and blush (a Beauty Banter fave)
Anastasia Brow Pencil in ash blonde
Jouer Eye Shadow in cashmere (it's a cream)
Do0wop body cream
Clinique Concealer in neutral
Loreal Featherlash Mascara in Black

Amy's Daily Mantras:

"I alway uses cream blush as that gives your face a fresh glow."
"I also use my fingers to apply my shadow as it blends better."
"I ALWAYS USES SPF ON MY FACE. LESS WRINKLES WHEN I'M OLDER!!!"

(Sarah and Amy at an event at the Chateau Marmont, circa 2006)