WEEKLY MUST HAVE: MAC Studio Fix Lash

If I had a dollar for every time I said I have found my new favorite mascara... I'd be a very rich girl. Well, ladies, I've done it again. Another find, another must-have. MAC Studio Fix Lash Mascara. And to think, it was just idly sitting in my drawer this entire time.

I recently did a clean out of all of my mascaras. It was time. They were getting old and clumpy and not applying properly which was frusterating the sh*t out of me. That's when I decided to look in my drawer of tricks (goodies) for a new mascara. And then I found it. MAC Studio Fix Lash.

With it's skinny plastic applicator, it gets the formula in those hard to reach places - like the inner corners of your eyes and directly on the lash line. With one application I have mega volume, clump-free and the perfect separation. The color is that dark black, almost like falsies. And it stays on all day without so much as rubbing or flecking off.

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

"Innovative, mousse-like formula gives superior definition, volume and lift by filling in sparse lashes for a dramatic effect. New moulded brush prevents clumping. Rich in pigments. Long-wearing polymers quickly coat from root to tip. Keeps lashes light, lifted, supple, and full. No clumping."

I've got to assume that this is a makeup artist favorite because the applicator really allows you to get into the lash line while the formula gives you that fake lash look. And it's SO easy to apply - how can you not go gaga over it? Perfect finish to a smokey eye. Or great to wear alone for a heavy lash effect with a bold red lip. LOVE IT!

So, if you're like me and on a constant quest for the best mascara, you must try this one! And let me know your thoughts!!! Do you adore as much as we do? 

PRICE TAG: $14.00 (I must say, very affordable for a high end mascara in these current times!)

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE: Chanel Inimitable Mascara

Oh where, oh where has this mascara been hiding?! I've discovered my newest holy grail mascara just in time for the holiday season. If you're in the market for a new mascara, pay close attention.... I'm hearting Chanel Inimitable Mascara in Black.

Let's start with the applicator - always a telltale sign of what's to come. This mascara boasts a thin plastic applicator, great for getting into those hard to reach places. The formula is outstanding. It volumizes, lengthens, curls and separates all while coating eyes with the blackest black. What I really notice when wearing this mascara is how it doesn't clump... SIGH. While my lashes are long, long, long and thick, they're also clump-free and pure batty lashes. I was noticing with my old must-have, Dior Extase, that my lashes were clumping like crazy and while the formula delivered lengthy lashes, it didn't do much in the separation department.

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

"A sophisticated formula and unique brush design combine to deliver lush, long-wearing colour so precisely that each lash, even the finest, is perfectly defined and separated. Pro-Vitamin B5 hydrates and conditions lashes to keep them supple and healthy-looking."

I've discovered my new daily must-have mascara --- what have YOU been wearing?

PRICE TAG: $30.00

REVIEW: CoverGirl Eye Lights Mascara

My friend Kaycee swears by CoverGirl's newest mascara revolution: Eye Lights, mascara suited for your eye color. Kinda genius, I must admit, so naturally, I had to try the goods.

Here's what it is:
A light-reflecting metallic mascara and a hint of tint that brings out your blues, browns, hazels and greens, with the patented no-clump brush to help define lashes. For brown eyes, CoverGirl has made an exclusive black pearl color. For blue eyes, it's black sapphire with a hint of blue, for green eyes, black ruby with a pop of purple, and for hazel eyes, you have black gold.

While Kaycee used the black ruby for her green peepers -- and yes, they did look brighter and greener -- the same exact color on my golden eyes seemed rather dreary. While the formula still lengthened my lashes, the color was a tad poopish (yes, I said poop). I decided to buy my color -- I'm somewhere between black gold and black pearl but opted for black pearl as I live for dark, full lashes, and let me tell you, black pearl turned my lashes into fierceness. My eyes looked brighter -- even a tad lighter -- while my lashes looked long and clump-free. But I must admit, my brown/ hazel peepers will be sticking to the CoverGirl Lash Blast as I'm a sucker for the real deal: black mascara.

If you're into a hint of color, this mascara is one to try.

PRICE TAG: $4.99

LINERS and LASHES from KORRES

My loves of KORRES began with their products for body, specifically Yoghurt Body Butter and Watermelon Body Scrub. With their commitment to eco-consciousness from concept to packaging, I am forever impressed by their selection. From haircare to skincare I use their products faithfully. More recently I began checking out the KORRES Color line from moisturizing lip balms and glosses to silicon-free primer. In greening my makeup one of the last things remaining were my old eyeliners. With the variety KORRES had to offer I was excited to give them a try.

I love eyeliner. But I was having trouble finding eco-friendly options I liked. The KORRES line offers 12 vibrant hues. It wasn’t actually so much a problem of finding a color I liked rather picking which one to use first. I have hazel eyes and my sister has green; we both found colors we loved in the KORRES line. I think the metallic brown is a great alternative to black and their green is a great deep color that made my eyes pop. My sister loved the cobalt blue. The pencil itself is perfect for making a sharp line but applies without pulling at the skin and the color lasts with minimal smudging (they’d also work well to create a smoky eye effect). Made using antioxidant Vitamin E to moisturize and macadamia oil which “rebalances dryness without clogging the pores or irritating the sensitive eye area” the liners are available individually for $16. KORRES offers are great value set including the black, blue black and gold for $25 (a $48 value).

This was also my chance to finally try KORRES mascara. For everyday the Provitamin B5 and Rice Bran mascara ($18) thrills me to no end because it not only nourishes lashes and creates volume but it also comes in five colors. FIVE. For those who want mascara without parabens, petrochemicals and other synthetics, you’re usually limited to black. Not always great for those with lighter hair or lashes. But KORRES offers this mascara in
black, blue black, grey green and brown. And they’ve just created a travel size in black ($8) perfect for your purse, suitcase or to give the line a try. For a more dramatic effect try the Abyssinia Oil mascara ($20). My sister loves deep, black lashes and this was perfect (it’s also available in brown, cobalt blue and plum). Made with Abyssinia oil “offering
excellent pigment for the most dramatic look,” along with Vitamin E, Provitamin B5 and bamboo extract.

Our friends at KORRES are extending their Friends & Family discount to Beauty Banter readers. Shop www.korresusa.com now through November 13th and receive 30% off! With any purchase over $25 get a deluxe sample of Age-Reversing Oak Night Cream, too. Enter promo code FAMILY at checkout. Shop for yourself or get a jump start on the holidays. xo alex.

SEEING GREEN

I never leave the house without mascara. Ever. Even to go to the gym (okay, on the occasion I go to the gym). One coat applied and I instantly feel like I got a better night’s sleep. Finding an eco-mascara has remained on my to-do list for some time. It’s not that I haven’t tried but so far I’ve haven’t liked the consistencies or found brushes awkward. And as a photographer, it has to stand up to hours behind the lens without leaving me with raccoon eyes.

I’ve been a fan of tarte cosmetics since their first cheek stain almost a decade ago and was thrilled when they created their eco-cheek collection. Recently, I decided it was time to give their new mascara a whirl. Why did I wait so long?

All tarte cosmetics are paraben, petro-chemical, phalate, sulfate and synthetic fragrance free. And tarte Lash Hugger mascara is the perfect example of eco-beauty inside and out. Even the tubes are created using recyclable and post-consumer recycled material. This eco-friendly mascara also cuts out GMOs, gluten, talc and dyes. So, what is in it? The company calls them skinvigoratingTM ingredients like carnauba and rice bran waxes, mineral pigments and olive esters. Perfect for both eco-conscious and sensitive skins.

I love the brush. It creates volume and define lashes. Though I generally choose a brown mascara for day, Lash Hugger is only available in black. But it's actually quite light and fine for am or pm. In the evening, I’d probably start with a smoky liner and add an extra coat or two. The non-waterproof formula was put to the test this week during a long photo shoot in 90 degree temps. After hours in the sun I was exhausted but not a flake or smudge.

Lash Hugger is available in stores or on the tarte website. xo a.

A Girl's Guide To.... Drugstore Mascaras

If you don't love mascara, there may be something wrong with you. No, seriously. Mascara is the gift that keeps on giving...

What makes a mascara magical?
Here are some of the issues that you, the readers, considered vital...

*Volumizing
*Lengthening
*Thickening
*Declumping/ Separating
*Color (that coats each lash)
*Wand - size, bristles and functionality

To drugstore or department store... well, the choice is yours but there are some amazing, fabulous, spectacular drugstore mascaras on the market!

For this edition of girl's guide, I've compiled a list of favorite drug store mascaras chosen by myself, you, our readers, and other fellow beauty addicts from around the web.

Naturally, this list will constantly change as new mascaras hit the market, so I'll try to post an updated version every month.

Here it is... All you'll ever need to know about drugstore mascaras!

CoverGirl Lash Blast $7.65
What THEY say: For volume - "Patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look."
What I say: I can't write this post without mentioning my coveted drugstore find, CG's Lash Blast (I know, I'm like a record on repeat). What can I say, I'm obsessed? Love the formula, LOVE the plastic wand, love how long and thick my lashes look after I apply. For more of my love-fest, click here.
What YOU Say: " It gives the best volume to my lashes than any other drugstore brand of mascara. The rubber brush is big but it delivers a blast of volume boosting formula to my lashes. It gives me big bold lashes without clumping. It's so worth the buy!" - Melissa Philipp of The Makeup Divas.
"Amazing volume - so good, you could wear it with PJs and look put together!" - Dana Mauriello

CoverGirl Lash Exact $7.30
What THEY say: Defines and Declumps - "Brush is a patented technology with bristles that are aligned and clean, so you get the Exact look you want."
What YOU say: "It has the perfect balance of length, volume and definition, without clumping, even when you get a bit lazy about wiping the brush (which I often am guilty of)," says Carleen Pruess of Beauty and Fashion Tech.

CoverGirl Volume Exact $7.99
What THEY say: Plump and Separate - "Flexible bristles with microchambers surround each lash, to plump and separate-for expressive volume."
What YOU say: "I have long lashes and a few coats of this makes them heavy and thick as well! People think I'm wearing falsies, it's that good." - Henna Singh of Canadian Beauty

Loreal Lash Out $8.50
What THEY say: Lengthening and Separating - "Patented Lengthening Formula, with an advanced protein complex goes on smoothly, dries quickly and wears all day without flaking."
What YOU say: "It delivers perfect eyelashes and it dry's fast That's key for those who don't have natural lashes that go up" - Andrea Gamble

Lumene Blueberry Curl $9.99
What THEY say: Volume - "A mascara which combines unique Finnish blueberry seed oil with the exceptional characteristics of an innovative plastic mascara brush."
What YOU say: "The brush is the best I've ever used. It's small enough to maneuver easily on the top part of your top lashes (i.e., the part that shows when you look down). The formula is incredibly moisturizing and curls my lashes nearly as well as my Shu." - Amber Katz of Beauty Blogging Junkie

Max Factor 2000 Calories Extreme Lash Plumper $11.99
What THEY say: Lash plumper - "A patented fat-inject formula and extreme Double-D brush plump every single lash so perfectly, so voluptuously"
What I say: Reminds me so much of CoverGirl Lash Blast I'd swear they've duplicated the product. Fat, bristled brush that's great for lengthening lashes, although I think that the CoverGirl version makes my lashes a tad longer. Although this formula doesn't flake or smudge - which I love.
What YOU say: "Makes lasher look longer & fuller without smudging." - Veronika G
"It gives me the volume I love, without the clumps. Just a really clean fan of pretty lashes!" - Amber of Beauty Noire

Maybelline Colossal Volum' Express $7.50
What THEY say: Plumping - "Patented MegaBrush and Collagen Formula plump lashes one by one"
What YOU say: "For an every day look, I love this mascara - it lengthens, defines, and adds volume in such a way that I've been asked more than once if I'm wearing false lashes." -Toya Smith Marshall of Life Of A Ladybug
"It makes my lashes full and lush, doesn't flake or clump and is so easy to remove" - The Beauty Girl
"The volume is...crazy sick...looks like falsies. Love it" - Eileen of Miss Whoever You Are

Maybelline Define-A-Lash $7.95
What THEY say: Volume - "This zero clump volumizing mascara creates voluptuous volume with clean definition."
What YOU say: "Volumizes, defines, lengthens... It's just amazingness in a pink bottle for less than $10!" - Michelle of Ellegance
"Amazing...seperates every lash while making them long and very full" - Katie Vaughn

Maybelline XXL Extensions $7.99
What THEY say: Lengthens - "This mascara creates up to 60% longer lashes and 11X the volume."
What YOU say: "Works great,I have average lashes and it lengthens and gives good definition
really bringing them out." - Meg Scharpf of the Glam Lounge

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free Mineral Mascara $7.99
What THEY say: Sensitive Eyes - "First ever mineral mascara specifically developed for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Mineral water-based formula conditions lashes and helps prevent breakage."
What YOU say: "It was the first on the scene with the soft rubber brush and is absolutely incredible. No flakes, no clumps, no smudgies. Plus it makes my lashes so long they bump my
glasses! I stock up on it. Its better than any high end mascara I've tried" - Jami Shopf of Bionic Beauty.

Rimmel Glam Eyes Mascara $7.49
What THEY say: Volume - "VolumFlex Brush styles lashes for sensational volume and instant separation. Supple elasto-bristles groom each lash, lacquering them from root to tip for 7 x more lash intensity."
What YOU say: "It makes my lashes an incredibly dark black that really makes them stand out, along with amazing length and extra volume! People really notice when I wear this one. The packaging is cute, too, and the rubber brush isn't obnoxiously large like some are" - Jen Bee of Bare Budget Beauty.
"I have wimpy lashes and it lengthens, fills and makes them look amazing. Doesn't flake, just GREAT stuff" - Jami Cruz

Rimmel Sexy Curves $7.00
What THEY say: Plumper, curvier lashes - "The first Triple Plump brush with 3 x the curves for 70% curlier lashes. Voluptuous brush with CurveControl technology wiggles easily through your lashes quickly coating them.."
What I say: Kate Moss sure knows what she's endorsing. This mascara is fantastic! The brush is thin and oddly shaped but it really does extend those lashes. Not bad on the flaking side of things, either. Thankfully, I didn't end my day with racoon eyes.
What YOU say: " It Separates, lengthens and curls each lash in a dark shiny black color" - Gauri Pendse of The Gloss Box

Add your favorite drugstore mascara and why in the comment section below and I will include your review in the next A Girl's Guide To.... Drugstore Mascaras post.

*And thanks to everyone who helped make this post possible -- you know who you are!

Beauty Bust: Cargo's Lash Activator

Cargo's newest mascara, Lash Activator, is sadly not worth the hooplah. No disrespect to Cargo - I happen to be a huge fan of their organic PlantLove collection (the bronzer is especially glam) - but the mascara is a major disappointment.

And I really, really wanted to love it -- it even comes equipped with a plastic-bristled brush (and you know how I heart a good plastic applicator)!

The gimmick is that Lash Activator is "proven to boost the appearance of lashes in just 30 days!" Is there a money back guarantee? No, I didn't use for the 30-day entirety, but just the one day was enough to turn my lashes into a tres tragic Adam's Family makeover.

Here's why I'm not down with the Lash Activator:

The formula is SO clumpy, even the plastic brush can't separate my glued-together lashes, nor can my trusty tweezerman lash comb. With other mascaras, I can overlook a slight mishap (for example, I still use Maybelline's Lash Stiletto even though it tends to flake - but I really dig the way it gives me spider-like lengthy lashes). With this Cargo mascara, it neither volumizes, lengthens or separates. The only thing it does really well is clump. And paint my tiny lash hairs a highly pigmented black.

Although, I'm not a fan of Lash Activator, I still have faith in Cargo.

Has anyone else tried the mascara and loved it?

10 Quick Tips For Applying Mascara

Mascara is a female rite of passage. If I was stranded on a deserted island, I'd want a tube of mascara and my trusty aquaphor. I could live happily with these 2 products.


With this in mind, I thought I'd share my top 10 favorite tips on applying mascara...

1. All mascara is NOT created equal. Try and test formulas before settling on one that is right for YOU. The must-have mascara may be a volumizing one, but your lashes may need a thickening formula. Don't be afraid to step away from the trend. Mascara is an individual preference.

2. It's all in the brush - Once you've chosen your favorite formula, you should find a brush that you love just as much... and if that brush doesn't belong to said mascara formula, don't fear. Use it anyway. There isn't a law that says you can only use the brush that belongs to the mascara it came with. **I like me a great, big 'ol plastic-bristled brush. It really gets into the lash line.**

3. Apply mascara to the bottom lashes FIRST, then the top after. This way you won't smudge top lash mascara on the lids and brow bone when trying to reach those pesky little bottom hairs.

4. For a more natural look, blondie's should try a dark brown mascara as opposed to black. It will still darken and lengthen but won't be as pigmented and startling as black. Brunettes can use too. I like it for a chill day when I'm cherishing my no-makeup look but still want a slight pop to my eyes. Try MAC's Pro Lash in Charcoal Brown. It's a good thickening formula.

5. Start from the outer corners of eyes and apply mascara inwards. I coat both the bottom and top of my lash hairs (this doesn't mean both the bottom and top lash lines, ladies.).

6. An easy way to naturally separate is to lightly blink as you are applying mascara. It gives a slight restriction to your lashes, like a vibrating mascara wand.

7. Tweezerman's lash comb is ESSENTIAL. It separates the most stubborn lashes instantly. Buy it, use it, cherish it. Clumpy lashes are only cute on Twiggy.

8. Not everyone should use mascara on the bottom lashes. And not every look requires it. For a more whimsical eye, just apply mascara to top lashes and let bottom lashes go au-naturel. Mascara on your bottom lashes can sometimes overplay and overdramatize the eye (actually making the eye appear more closed off and smaller).

9. Mascara works best if applied last, after the rest of the eye makeup is in place. This way, falling shadow will not land on your wet lashes and coat them with a thin layer of something other than mascara!

10. Gently wipe the mascara wand on a tissue or the top of the mascara bottle to remove excess formula and save your lashes from unecessary clumping.

BONUS: When removing mascara, be gentle! Your lashes are sensitive creatures. Don't rub or pull or attack. Try Vaseline for a natural, easy mascara remover. It will also nourish the eye area and it makes removal incredibly quick and easy.

Have a mascara application trick? Let us know below!

Lash Stiletto Review: Round 2

Kate, winner of the Maybelline Lash Stiletto contest, shares her review of said mascara with our readers:


"The mascara arrived very promptly, and I immediately pounced on it. I just knew I would love it, so I couldn't wait to try it, and rushed off to the bathroom to apply. Oooooh, long, spiky, stiletto-like lashes appeared before me in the mirror. It really gives a Kim Kardashian look to the eyes. I was in love.

Unfortunately, our love was not destined to last... Half an hour later, my friend was pulling me aside to wipe little flakes of mascara off of my cheek. But one little mistake can't ruin a great love affair, so I kept trying. For the last week and a half, I've been looking distinctly raccoon-y, as I stubbornly keep applying LS every morning. Oh Lash Stiletto, I wanted to love you so, but you are so flaky! A woman needs a mascara she can count on to stay with her for a good long time, not one that flakes at the first chance it gets.

Overall, I had to call a halt to our whirlwind romance, and make LS a booty call only. I will only be reaching for it on those nights when nothing else will do, and I just have to have gorgeous long spiky lashes. I'll just make sure I'm rocking a smoky eye with it, so the flakes have some camouflage.

Thank you for the opportunity to try this mascara out. I really enjoyed testing it, and felt like a scientist -- I have somewhere to report my findings!"

Click here for Beauty Banter's review.

What do you think about Maybelline's latest attempt at mascara glory?

Have YOU tried lash Stiletto?

tarte Bottoms Up PLUS Free Lash Curler

For all of you mascara-obsessed ladies, tarte has a semi-new product: the Bottoms Up Mascara, specifically designed for your lower lashes. We felt like shelling out 16 bucks for a mascara simply for your bottom lashes may be asking a bit much during this recession, but now there is an incentive to spend! Read to the bottom of the post to find out why!


Although Bottoms Up sounds like the biggest marketing gimmick in makeup history, we actually really heart this product! It's flake-free (YAY) and separates and coats every single mini lash with the perfect amount of mascara! You can now channel your inner Twiggie with grace and ease.... don't your lower lashes deserve the same TLC as the upper ones? We don't discriminate.

PRICE TAG: $16.00

TODAY, if you purchase a mascara from www.tartecosmetics.com, you'll receive a FREE eye lash curler (we're a huge fan of lights, cameras, lashes!).


Enter code: CURLER at check out for free lash curler. Available through www.tartecosmetics.com. Ends tonight!

What do YOU think? tarte's Bottoms Up is genius or gimmicky?

Review: Maybelline Lash Stiletto

Finding a great new mascara for a beauty whore is like stumbling across a great IPO for a wallstreeter. I get all giddy and excited and feel this overwhelming urge to run my mouth and tell EVERYONE about my new find... thank heavens for this site!

I like to mix up my mascara uses. Sometimes I opt for high end like Dior, othertimes I'm really into my drugstore finds like Covergirl. When hearing of Maybelline's newest mascara, I was anxious to give it a try (after all, Maybelline is a cult favorite when it comes to lashes - Great Lash Mascara, anyone?).


Maybelline's Lash Stiletto accomplishes many of the vital things that I really admire in a mascara. First, it lengthens like crazy - people actually ask me if I'm wearing falsies (this is always a positive). Second, it applies super easily without clumping or making my lashes awkwardly stick together. Third, it coats my lashes with a great, rich black (they call it "patent shine") hue. Lastly, it washes off super easily, without leaving that black "ring around the eye" effect.

Onto the negatives: Although the mascara lengthens for miles, it doesn't really volumize (I'm fine with that because whenever a mascara makes your lashes appear thicker, it also ends up creating clumps... and I loathe clumps!). If you're looking for a volumizing mascara, this is not the one for you!

Unfortunately, my biggest concern is that it has a slight tendency to flake off and land under my lower lash line. This is annoying, naturally, because you can end up looking a little racoon-esque. But I find that if I use a product like YSL's Toche Eclat after applying the mascara, it works to keep my eyes (and the black) in check. But I do wish that Maybelline would work on the product formulation so that it doesn't dry so quickly and flake off.

Despite the two negatives, I will definitely continue using Lash Stiletto -- I've even recommended it to some of my mascara-obsessed friends as a great alternative to their expensive brand choices. At $7.50 a pop, it's a recession-worthy necessity!

Holy Grail Mascara (of the Moment)

Everyone boasts about their "holy grail" mascara - the perfect blend of length, volume, separation and deep color, that evokes a "false lashes" look without the need for actual false lashes. There's no denying that the perfect mascara is a personal preference (and one that often changes with the times... and invention of new, amazing mascaras).

Well, ladies, after endlessly searching the department store and drugstore aisles, I've finally found my personal holy grail mascara (of the moment)!

Cover Girl Lash Blast - yes, it's been around for awhile but I've only just been introduced to it.

I was recently shuffling through my good friend, Nicky Hilton's, makeup counter in her bathroom when I came across the oddly shaped orange tube. I pointed to the tube and asked, "what's that" and Nicky replied that it's a great drugstore find: Cover Girl's coveted Lash Blast. I'd heard of the mascara although I had yet to try it. I thought to myself, "Hmmm - if it's good enough for Nicky's lashes, I'm sure it's good enough for mine" (Nicky's very well-versed on all things cosmetics - her bathroom counter is every beauty whore's wildest (and wettest) dream... products galore!)

So, I immediately tested the mascara on my own lashes and the results were tremendous - my lashes appeared massively long, gorgeously thick, completely separated and perfectly black! And the wand - oh that amazingly oversized, plastic wand (perfect for volumizing and declumping) - I swear that the beauty of this mascara lies within that incredible wand (and you know how much I love a good wand!). It was everything I had been searching for in a single mascara. Just look at my lashes, post Lash Blast:

Pretty, pretty long... (people keep asking me if I'm wearing false lashes... I simply respond, as if!)

Of course, I booked it to my local CVS and bought myself a tube. And the icing on the already gorgeous cake: the mascara is under $10.00! It retails for around $9.00!

If you don't own this mascara yet, I implore you to buy it asap! Your lashes will thank-you...

Turbolash Review

Estee Lauder's highly hyped vibrating mascara, Turbolash, is sold out everywhere. However, we were fortunate enough to sample the product before it went M.I.A.

It's a pretty amazing piece of technology. The entire wand vibrates from the top thanks to a specialized "motor." It reminds us of Spinlash, although the Spinlash brush revolves back and forth as opposed to the wand, and it does so quite slowly making it much more of a process to apply the mascara. Turbolash is fast. You hold the vibrating wand in your hand and apply the mascara as you would any normal one. The LashSonic Brush with micro-pulse bristles "oscillates" at 125 cycles per second. Basically, this means that your lashes are coated, volumized and separated by the "turbo brush" vibrating wand in a fraction of the time. What sets this mascara apart from Spinlash (besides the speed) is that the mascara formula is awesome - even without the vibrating wand, this is a mascara worth wearing!

It may take a minute to get used to the vibrations - but once you do, application is a piece of cake. It's even - dare we say - soothing to the hand, as the vibrating wand creates a massaging experience.

PRICE TAG: $30.00

Next up to try: Lancome's Oscillation Mascara (launching in November). Even more vibrations...

We sense a trend taking form - vibrating wands - What company dares to follow suit next?

LASH STASH by SEPHORA

The Lash Stash is a collection of Sephora's top-selling mascaras (7, to be exact), travel-size (all black), in the convenience of a single set. It's being hailed as the "sampler set." Test drive a new mascara every day of the week until you find your must-have!

We LOVE this concept... only problem.... they left out some of the BEST mascaras! Like Fresh's Supernova and Tarte's Lights, Camera, Lashes - both sold at Sephora! SIGH!

Here are the brands that you DO get in the sampler set:
Benefit A Little Bit BADgal Lash in Black
Blinc Kiss Me Mascara in Black
LORAC Publicity Stunt Lashes in Black
Smashbox Bionic Mascara in Black
Stila Multi-Effect Mascara in Black
Sephora Brand Lash Plumper in Black
Too Faced Lash Injection in Black.

We're feeling like this would make a fab gift for anyone who is mascara-obsessed!!!

PRICE TAG: $50.00 for the set of 7 sample sizes

I cannot WAIT for THIS....

Lancome's newest installment to their world-renowned mascara collection is:

Oscillation!!!

Here's what they have to say about the news:

"We just learned of some exciting mascara news from our team in Paris... This fall, we will be launching Ôscillation, a unique mascara that provides a 360-degree coat around each and every lash. The vibrating brush provides no fewer than 7,000 vibrations per minute for the perfect formula application. Ôscillation has four patents for technology and formula and was created by a team led by Jean-Louis Guéret, the designer of all Lancôme mascara brushes. The King of Mascara, Guéret has been the father of nearly 400 mascaras during his illustrious career."




We DEF will be pre-ordering Oscillation (although we're not too keen on the name... it's a strange one to pronounce!)!

High Définicils, 2008

Lancome's coveted Définicils mascara just got a make-over... And I'm LOVING it!

All throughout high school I was a major fan of the Définicils mascara (first launched in 1991), as it did justice to my lashes. But then I got bored, as I usually do with products. I wanted something new, something different. And I traveled the makeup counters at Sephora and Barneys searching for my new fave mascara. Over the years I've found many - I LOVE Prescriptives Fake Lashes and Fresh's Supernova. I also had a mild obsession with Cover Girl's Lash Exact Waterproof Mascara. And now I'm back to Lancome.



Since 1991, Lancome has introduced 3 Définicils mascaras into the family:
Définicils - The Original: Straight brush coats lashes evenly, from base to tips, for a perfectly defined and separated look.
Définicils Pro 2007: Curved brush deposits more product at the root of the lash for a fuller look.
High Définicils 2008: Soft rubber brush offers effortless glide for individually separated and lengthened look.

It's no secret that there are a few necessities to a good mascara. I like something that lengthens, darkens and doesn't clump. I also love a rubber wand that allows easy access for those hard to reach hairs.

Lancome's revamped High Définicils does ALL that! I love, love, love it!!!

Have you tried High Définicils 2008.... thoughts?

Very Voluptuous

Victoria's Secret has grown enormously since the days of padded bras and nude undies. In fact, their beauty section is so impressive, it boasts some of the largest names in the industry to date... Frederic Fekkai, Patricia Wexler M.D. skin, and Joey New York, just to name a few. To put it mildly, Victoria's Secret Beauty has become a one-stop beauty destination.

January 2008 marks another milestone for the beauty giant... the launch of Very Voluptuous, Victoria's Secrets personal products (on the heels of the Very Sexy Collection). After all, who doesn't want a bit of curves in the right spots???

What it is:

VERY VOLUPTUOUS™ Lip Plumper
Our best-selling lip plumpers that started it all… For full, incredibly sexy lips with a luscious hint of color. Innovative Marine Collagen Microspheres instantly plump and smooth, visibly
diminishing lines and wrinkles. Choose from original Bare, with self-adjusting pigments for a personalized rosy tint, or Hot Pink and Baby Pink, for tinted plumping. $18

VERY VOLUPTUOUS™ Lip Plumper Extreme
For beyond-basic, totally extreme lip plumping. A dangerously hot combination of Marine Collagen Microspheres and natural GABA instantly delivers mega volume and hydration while reducing the look of lines and wrinkles for a super-plump, sexy pout.The intensely warm, tingly sensation lets you know it’s plumping. $26



NEW! VERY VOLUPTUOUS™ Extreme Volume Mascara
For lush, unbelievably thick, eye-opening lashes. This ultimate volumizing mascara combines an extreme volume brush and conditioning formula to define and lengthen while creating ultra-voluminous, clump-free lashes in just one sweep. In Very Black. $18



NEW! VERY VOLUPTUOUS™ Ultimate Bust Plumper
For eye-popping, extreme cleavage and a smooth, dangerously voluptuous bust. Groundbreaking formula with Hyaluronic Spheres, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein and Lipids plumps and hydrates, creating beyond-sexy curves. Creamy, fast-absorbing formula tingles on contact, delivering moisture for wow-worthy, visibly sexy results. $26



We had the opportunity to test the Lip Plumper in Baby Pink (a barely-there lippie with a hint of iridescent), the Extreme Volume Mascara (plump without clumps... it delivers!) and the Ultimate Bust Plumper. The latter of the three is of most interest... the box says, "In just 2 weeks, bust and decollete feel plumped and look voluptuous, and cleavage looks sexier." Although we're not quite sure how a cream can offer such claims, we're definitely trying it for the full 2 weeks.

Say good-bye to breast growing mantras ("I must, I must, I must increase my bust...") and hello to the Ultimate Bust Plumper! If only this product were available when I was still in the throes of puberty....

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE

It's been awhile, I know... but this is an AMAZING - need to run to your nearest Sephora and buy in bulk - must-have!

I'm in mascara love... lustful, passionate, full-out love! My lashes have never looked longer, thicker, healthier and happier!

Fresh Supernova Black Magic Mascara is my new favorite! Not only does it lengthen and thicken, it conditions too! And it doesn't goop, stays on ALL day long and actually takes lashes to a new level - faux fake! The wand isn't plastic (you know how I love plastic) but it's still very functional and easy to use, reaching deep into the root of the lash for full extension. And the color, well, let's just say that it is quite possibly the perfect black - dark, rich and silky!

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I've recommended this mascara to several friends, and I even bought one for my mother! It seems to be a universal favorite... everyone's loving it just as much as I do!

Fresh Supernova DELIVERS! Who knew that Fresh manufactured products that didn't contain their signature Sugar scent...

Weekend Beauty Buys

Hair-crazed Jenny is in town (remember her? CLICK HERE to read her hysterical hair horror stories) and we spent the entire day beauty shopping!

Here's what I bought:

From Lapeer Beauty Supply in Beverly Hills (my new FAVE beauty destination):

Klorane Oat Extract Dry Shampoo - this is the very BEST dry shampoo that I have EVER used. It's from the French line, Klorane, and until today, I was unable to find it without going to Europe or ordering online! It adds volume, absorbs oil and smells so damn purrrty!

KMS Head Remedy Clarify Shampoo - This once or twice weekly shampoo removes oil and product build-up. Key to having healthy, luminous lockes!

Sebastian Professional Shine Styling Flat Iron - Ceramic coating for straight hair without the damage. (Did you know that the thinner the flat iron is, the easier it is to reach the roots and get your hair super straight??? I have a fat flat iron and needed a skinny one!)

Andrea Q's Oil-Free Eye Make-Up Remover Pads - LOVE these... pre-soaked, non oily pads that remove your eye make-up and not your eye lashes! Great for sensitive eyes (like me!)


From Sephora:

Fresh Supernova Mascara - LOVE this new find! Lengthens without lumping and clumping! I bought one for me and one for a gift! Sharing the secrets...

Korres Body Butter in Guava - I bought 3 tubes of this.... LOVE it! Gave one to Jenny, wrapped another one for a gift, and kept the last for me! Read my rave review HERE!

Lash Finder By Prescriptives...

Prescriptives Cosmetics has launched a fabulous new podcast to teach beauty enthusiasts which mascara is right for you! I reviewed their Prescriptives Here To Stay 24-Hour Longwear Mascara (CLICK HERE for post) back in September, and I've gotta say, I still love it (and use it)!

Now, they've made 4 Podcast Tutorials demonstrating how to wear 4 of their best mascaras. Not only do they tell you about the mascara, but they also tell you how to work your eye to get the best effect from said mascara!

Here's what it is:

Four “how-to” videos featuring Prescriptives’ Director of Artistry and QVC® spokesperson, Jillian Veran will help you choose the right lash look:

• 24-Hour Lashes (featuring Here To Stay 24-Hour Longear Mascara)
• Long Luxe Lashes (featuring Lash Envy Volumizing Mascara)
• Curled, Conditioned Lashes (featuring False Eyelashes Plush Mascara)
• Beyond Long Lashes (featuring Beyond long Maximum Length Mascara)

I've included the Long Luxe Lashes tutorial on this post (just kidding... blogger isn't working so well), but to view the other (and equally educational) podcasts, CLICK HERE.

I am so excited to try this mascara, you have NO idea!

Which one will you try???