Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper for MAC

It looks as though MAC has two new faces to add to their glamness roster of Viva Glam star power: Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper have been tapped to become the latest faces of the MAC AID's Fund, launching tomorrow, February 25, 2010.

While controversial, albeit sometimes adrogynous (RuPaul, anyone?) celebs have been known to represent the brand throughout the years, Lady Gaga most certainly makes a statement that this beauty writer has mixed emotions about. Cyndi Lauper, on the other hand, is exactly the type of face we'd expect MAC to pull out of the wood works. Iconic, old-school, unique, yet still so notable.

"We're raising the VIVA GLAM bar this year with the voices of two incredible artists... We have one artist that hit the music industry at the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980's and another that is explosively popular with young people today," says John Dempsey, Group President, Estee Lauder Companies and Chairman, MAC AIDS Fund.

Cyndi's color is a "fabulous red" while Gaga's is a "bluish pink, great for everyday." To view the colors, click here. I'm def feeling the Cyndi red.

Both singers are excited and honored to be a part of the cause.

100% of the sale price of the lippies will go to fight HIV/AIDS. Click here for more info.

PRICE TAG: $14.00

Sustainable Beauty: Diptyque and RED

Diptyque has always been one of my favorite candle companies but they just made it to my hall of fame. It was just announced that Diptyque has joined forces with Bono's RED campaign to help provide life-saving medication for those living with HIV in Africa.

Sustainable beauty at its best. Who doesn't love a candle? Says the company, "As the international symbol for hope, a candle’s light can now be a coveted item with a positive, humane, and impactful initiative. In partnership with (RED)™, diptyque has created an exceptional limited-edition candle that helps those living with HIV in Africa obtain the medicine they need to stay alive. The candle’s soothing, spicy scents are derived from certified fair trade vanilla. At the heart of this spicy aura, diptyque chooses to feature both Indian and Madagascar vanilla along with South African rooibos.

Taking its commitment a step further, the candle’s soothing, spicy scents are derived from certified fair trade vanilla. At the heart of this spicy aura, diptyque chooses to feature both Indian and Madagascar vanilla along with South African rooibos. The Indian vanilla comes from Karnataka, Kerala and Tamidu through a fair trade alliance between Firmenich and the EARF (Eco Agri Research Foundation). This spice, coveted by all those who inhale it, is even more precious to those for whom it ensures hope, the promise of a future and the ability to meet the needs of their children."

With all of the devastation in Haiti, let us not forget about the global crisis effecting human beings around the world on a daily basis. Each one of us can make a difference. We can all find a way to help. Start here, now, and buy this candle. At $68.00, Diptyque will contribute 10% for each candle sold to The Global Fund in an effort to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Available NOW! click here.

Kiehl's For Change

Who says that beauty can't change the world? Kiehl's is proving otherwise. In honor of World AIDS day (today), the company introduces Hand Care for a Cure, a Limited Edition version of its customer favorite, Ultimate Strength Hand Salve.

Donating 100% of net profits of each product dedicated to stemming the loss of life from HIV/AIDS, this heavy-duty moisture treatment is a thick, rich formula offering all-day care and protection to hands. Featuring a blend of select ingredients that allows skin to actually draw and absorb water from the air, this hand salve forms a “glove-like’ protective barrier against moisture loss.

“Dating back to 1996, Kiehl’s has been committed to raising awareness of HIV/AIDS by partnering with reputable organizations like Magic Johnson AIDS Foundation, YouthAIDS and amfAR,” said Chris Salgardo, president, Kiehl’s USA. “In fact, since 2001, Kiehl’s has proudly raised upwards of $1,000,000 for the cause! From inception, it has been our mission to always give back to the communities in which we do business, and to do our part to be a socially responsible citizen. And, we are thrilled that we are once again able to donate to amfAR, a charity that Kiehl’s has supported for many years.”

Winter chapped skin be gone. AIDS be banished. Kiehl's is here to help. Sustainable beauty at its finest. To order, visit www.kiehls.com.

100% of net proceeds benefit amfAR. "Founded in 1985, amfAR is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research. With the freedom and flexibility to respond quickly to emerging areas of scientific promise, amfAR plays a catalytic role in accelerating the pace of HIV/AIDS research and achieving real breakthroughs."

Drugstore Find: Alba Rainforest Body Collection

Alba's newest line, the Rainforest Collection, is bathing at its finest.

While the collection spans from hair to skin, it's the body products that I am seriously hooked on. The bathing goodies come in 3 scents targeting 3 specific concerns: ACAI Antioxidant (Açaí has highly concentrated and a diverse range of antioxidants and is proving to be an excellent source of essential fatty acids), Andiroba Renewal (Andiroba Oil helps soothe and heal skin. Myristic acid contributes to the acceleration of healing of damaged skin) and Capuacu Deep Hydration (Cupuaçu butter is a rich emollient that delivers deep hydration and helps restore softness and elasticity).

The ACAI Antioxidant is my favorite. I love the idea that I am feeding my skin with a plethora of antioxidants for a healthy, radiant complexion. The wash and lotion both smell blissfully serene - part tropical, part fruity, but not overwhelmingly pungent at all. The wash lathers into cloud-like suds and soothes as it washes. The lotion (complete with a pump!) has the consistancy of Lubriderm (not watery but not shea butter thick) and absorbs completely. Cocoa butter and Brazil Nut Oil help to keep my skin smooth and hydrated throughout the day.

I was slightly disappointed that the shampoos are not sulfate-free, but I tried the Cupuacu (deep hydration) none-the-less and was content with the results (no stripping that I could tell of). The products are made with emollient-rich oils derived from some of the world's most beneficial fruits and nuts. Again, love the natural ingredient spin, but I don't think I'd rebuy the shampoo and conditioner as I'm on a major sulfate-free kick (click here for a reminder on why sulfates suck!).

As for the lotion and wash, yes, they'll be taking up permenent residence in my bathroom.

The best part of the rainforest collection is that it gives back to its namesake: the rainforest. Says Alba, "The Andiroba and Brazil Nut Oil we source from the rainforest are certified by the Rainforest Alliance to the FSC standards. They also certify our paper cartons" "Alba Botanica also supports Rainforest education and sustainability through the Amazon Center for Environmental Education and Research (ACEER)."

Affordable, sustainable beauty!

PRICE TAG: $9.95 (wash)/ $10.95 (lotion)

Eco-Friendly Money Savers!

Rachel Hayes (not to be confused with Rachel Ray) of Dailymakeover.com has just compiled a fabulous list of ways to cut costs while still remaining eco-friendly! Money is tight, but that doesn't mean we should forget about the environment!

• 1. Save water by turning it off while you are waiting for your hair conditioner or mask to sink in. This could also be a great time to do a body scrub because the water won't rinse it immediately off your body. Saves money on the water bill!
• 2. Use sea salts to exfoliate. They're inexpensive and natural. Synthetic beads may not be biodegradable and are not the kind of fish food we want our marine life consuming.
• 3. Use bar hand soap instead of liquid hand soap. Not only does it last longer (which saves money), but it also has a smaller carbon footprint because there is less packaging and plastic.
• 4. Whip up your own beauty treatments instead of buying prepackaged ones. No need to buy expensive treatments - use what's in the house! Olive oil makes a great all around moisturizer – rub it on cuticles while you’re cooking! It’s also great for dry ends of hair.
• 5. Don't be over-served! Making your products last as long as possible will reduce your overall consumption of packaging, materials, and the carbon footprint that comes along with it. Use only a dime-size of shampoo, a quarter size of conditioner, a pea size of face cream, and a shot-glass size of body lotion. And this way, you consolidate what you already have (which you would have chucked in the trash out and spent cash to buy more).

Have an eco-friendly, money saving tip? Let us know!

Look Beautiful And Fight Breast Cancer

So many companies are taking the initiative to help find a cure for breast cancer. Everyone from Oprah Winfrey to national television networks, are getting involved as breast cancer continues to take so many lives. Breastcancer.org estimates that every 3 minutes a woman is diagnosed with the disease.

BUT, we can change this!!! As we previously mentioned, October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month... which means that tons of beauty companies are offering special, limited-edition pink products and donating a portion (or all) of the proceeds to the cause. So, by buying these incredible beauty goodies, you're not only scoring on some awesome products, you're also helping the fight to end breast cancer. Looking good, doing good and feeling good!

Here are some of our favorite Breast Cancer Awareness products:

(click image to enlarge)

Sabon Pink Bath Basket - filled to the brim with Sabon's incredibly rich and sophisticated bath and body products including the BODY SCRUB and SORBET in Lavender Apple.
PRICE TAG: $90.00 (30% of basket proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation)

OPI limited-edition Pink of Hearts Nail Polish - This beautiful baby pink color is perfect for a natural nail with a a lightly bolder ballerina slippers. It's available throughout October.
PRICE TAG: $8.50 (OPI will doante $25,000 to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation)

Anastasia limited-edition WCRF Tweezers - Who doesn't need a nice pair of tweezers to pluck those unrully hairs? And Anastasia does have a reputation for making the best! These ones come with a beautiful Swarovski crystal enscripted BCA pink ribbon.
PRICE TAG: $35.00 - available exclusively at Nordstrom's for October (50% of net proceeds will benefit the Women’s Cancer Research Fund.)

Tinte Cosmetics Matchbook in Blushed Beauty - An all-inclusive palette of shadow, blush, liner and glosses (oh yeah, brushes included too!)- making make-up fun, easy and idiot proof!
PRICE TAG: $28.00 (40% of all proceeds will go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.)

Darphin Predermine Wrinkle Corrective Serum - Special pink bottle of the best-selling wrinkle serum. Quickly absorbs to visibly reduce wrinkles. Smoother and more youthful skin, cute new pink bottle? What could be bette?! Helping the cause!
PRICE TAG: $205.00 ($20.00 for every bottle sold in October will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation).

Estee Lauder Elizabeth Hurley High Gloss Lip Color Collection - 3 super glossy tubes (pearl, pink and rose) to offer gorgeous, kissable lips. Housed in a limited-edition Pink Ribbon pink case (great for storing jewelry!).
PRICE TAG: $16.00 (Estee Lauder will donate $500,000.00 to The Breast Cancer Research Fund!)

Ladies, there are SO many other great products that are offering donations to help the cause and find a cure... if you don't purchase one of these mentioned in this post, I urge you, purchase something pink.... and give back! October is almost over...

Cargo's Plantlove - The FULL Line!

You remember the eco-friendly, all-natural lippies that Cargo launched about a year ago? Celebs like Angie Harmon and Lindsay Lohan lent their name to their favorite colors... the tube is made entirely from corn (this is my favorite part) and the box is made of flower seeds... if you plant it, flowers grow!

Well, Cargo recently debuted an entire colorline with the same principles... Cargo Cosmetics Plantlove is eco-friendly, all natural, casings made of corn, boxes made of flower seeds, and, like the lippies, a portion of the proceeds goes to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital!!! To add a nice sprinkle to the fabulous frosting, Cargo's Plantlove is the first high end cosmetic line to be recognized by ECOCERT (Physician's Formula is the only other cosmetic line with ECOCERT recognition, and they're a mass brand).

Here are the products:

Natural Origin Loose Powder Foundation ($30)
Available in 5 shades

Natural Origin Pressed Powder ($30)

100% Natural Origin Baked Illuminator ($28)
Earth – Gold, copper and bronze combination
Wind – Terracotta, champagne and bronze combination
Fire – Pink, pearl and bronze combination

100% Natural Origin Bronzer ($28)

100% Natural Origin Blush ($28)
Tulip – Cotton candy peach
Peony – Shimmering apricot
Rose – Matte rose
Begonia – Electric rose
Cherry Blossom – Shimmering petal pink
Delphinium – Shimmering dusty pink


100% Natural Origin Lipstick ($20)
Available in 20 shades (click HERE)

100% Natural Origin Lip Gloss ($20)
Sunflower – Sheer gold
Dahlia – Opalescent pink
Geranium – Sunny rose
Magnolia – Icy pink
Poppy – Sheer, sparkling poppy
Geranium – Sheer plum
Bonsai – Shimmering sand
Jasmine – Nude quartz


100% Natural Origin Lipliner ($16)
Rose
Pink

100% Natural Origin Lip Balm ($20)

100% Natural Origin Eye Shadow ($20)
Available in 18 shades


100% Natural Origin Eye Liner ($16)
Black
Dark Brown
Light Brown
Khaki
Bronze
Midnight Blue



*Available September 22 at www.cargocosmetics.com.*

Any products you're just dying to try? Any favorites already? Let us know! Leave a comment below!

P.S. We HEART the girly, psychedelic packaging - hippie meets sass!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to kick it off, we've got a great product that'll make your hair shine with happiness and your heart burst with love, all the while giving back to the cause.

Ojon's Revitalizing Mist is a fabulous lightweight spray that leaves hair detangled, rehydrated, refreshed and smelling purrrty. I like to think of it as the "everything spray" because it literally does EVERYTHING! It can be used for a myriad of needs such as reactivating lifeless hair post work out or pre work day (especially if you skipped a shower). It also replenishes vitamins, seals the cuticles, protects color-treated tresses, aids in combating frizz and adds lustre to bland hair! Whew.... that's a lot for one little spray to accomplish... but Ojon's Revitalizing mist does it all (and you get a nice mildly sweet scent to cover-up annoying everyday odors).


So, now you have beautiful hair... and thanks to Ojon, you can give the gift of research to the beautiful people suffering from breast cancer. Ojon will donate 20 percent from the sale of the Mist to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, "a not-for-profit organization founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder, that funds innovative clinical and translational research."

Thank-you, Ojon! We love a company that gives back!

PRICE TAG: $26.00 for 5.07 oz (that's $5.20 that goes straight to breast cancer research)!

For additional information on breast cancer, and to perform an individual breast cancer exam, click HERE!

The Sephora Project

Being a beauty whore means indulging in lavish products, dreaming of MAC lip glosses and Tarte cheek stains, having a bathroom stocked with everything from body butters to Anastasia tweezers. Being a beauty whore means having the nearest Sephora on speed-dial because, after all, in a beauty bind, you can always count on Sephora to get you out of a jam.

I've had a loving relationship with Sephora for many, many years and nothing makes me happier then walking through those massive glass doors, into a room filled with beautiful things that, in turn, make me a more beautiful person - on the outside, of course.

Well, Sephora is about to make us more beautiful on the inside too! The Sephora Project is a "new initiative created to educate and empower women and girls whose mission, like Sephora’s, is to make the world a more beauty-full place."

Launching just in time for the Holiday Season, Sephora's new change purse and tote bag are gifts that give back. One hundred percent (that's right - all of it) of the profits from both items will be donated to Girls For A Change: a national organization that empowers girls to create social change. That’s $6 ($12.00 to purchase) from each bag, and $3 ($5.00 to purchase) from each change purse that goes toward the cause.

change purse

tote bag

The fashionable tote bag is made from recycled bottles that have been crushed and spun into fibers - so not only does the money go to a good cause, but you're helping to save the environment as well! This is a win-win-win!!!

Help the company that has helped you stay beautiful on the outside to give back and, by doing so, you'll be helping yourself stay beautiful on the inside too.

Buy in bulk (like you do those Lancome mascaras) - these goodies are the perfect Holiday gift!

Do YOU Want To Take A Shower With Brad Pitt

How amazing is this board in front of the Kiehl's store on Robertson Boulevard in West Hollywood???

(click image to enlarge)

I literally stopped dead in my tracks and did some quick back-peddling.
My answer: YES!!!! Duhh...

The product being advertised is the Aloe Vera Liquid Body Cleanser - the first 100 % biodegradable formula and fragrance from Kiehl's.

From Kiehl's: "A liquid body cleanser, made from 100% biodegradable ingredients. All of Kiehl's net profits from the sale of this product will support the work of JPF ECO SYSTEMS, a charitable partnership created by Kiehl’s and Brad Pitt to maximize awareness of environmental sustainability."

From the sexiness that is Bradley Pitt: "Kiehl's formulated this product to minimize the impact we have on our environment. All proceeds will go to benefit green initiatives around the globe."

This is some serious sustainable beauty! Although we haven't tried the body wash yet, we definitely will (if not solely to help the environment, then to bathe with the same wash as Brad)!

P.S. We hear that some of the writing on the bottle is actually Brad's penmanship! AHHHHH, Mr. Pitt is such a do-gooder!

PRICE TAG: $16.50 for 6.8 oz

Green By Nature Keeps the Green in YOUR Pocket (Where it Belongs!)

I haven't been this excited about a new line of bath products since hearing that Cleo was leaving the land of da Vinci for the great shores (and bodies) of our country!

Green by Nature is a magnificent new bath and skin line available at Target. It that uses 91-98.6 % natural ingredients. They're so environmentally conscious, they've joined 1% For The Planet, an alliance of businesses that donate 1% of their annual sales to environmental causes (hence the "green" part of the brand name). And you know how much we love a company that gives back!

Green by Nature offers up a delicious blend of vitamins, extracts, oils and antioxidants and they're 100 % Paraben, DEA, Petroleum, Propylene Glycol, Sulfates, Sacchrine, Dioxin and Phthalates FREE! Not quite sure what all of those bad ingredients are but we know we feel much safer (and smoother) without them!

The line divies up a vast array of affordable products from Body Lotions and Butters, Body Scrubs, Hand Creams and Body Washs to Lip Butters, Scrubs, Polishes and Body Sprays! And they come in 3 awesome scents - Mint Green Tea, Almond Cocoa (**Beauty Banter Fave**) and Bannana Shea.

We tried the Body Scrub and Body Butter and have nothing but rave reviews!

The Body Scrub is a legit, down and dirty scrubbie that uses natural and finely grounded exfoliators (we're guessing seeds) to rid the body of dry and flaky skin. The combo of exfoliation and healthy aroma makes for an intoxicating bathing experience. The result is smooth, glowing and sexy smelling skin! $9.99 for 5 oz

The Body Butter is wonderfully rich and soothing - moisturizing the skin with whipped Shea Butter and essential oils (and it absorbs rather quickly for such a thick butter!). Again, the scent is incredibly warm without being overbearing. Your body is left feeling soft, refreshed and utterly hydrated. $11.99 for 4.4 oz

Give back while caressing your fabulously soft and supple skin!

Getting Beautiful For A Cause...

I just returned from a fabulous event honoring the 60th anniversary of the Emmy's AND Breast Cancer Awareness (October is the official month of Breast Cancer Awareness).

The event was hosted by The Silver Spoon and it paid homage to the people who suffer from breast cancer. All of the companies involved were helping to increase awareness and find a cure (you know how we love a company that gives back)! With that in mind, products being gifted were "pink" themed (the official color of Breast Cancer Awareness).


The event was all about health and beauty! The companies included Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, M.B. York, The Face Shop, New Balance, The Andy Lecompte Salon (where I visited with my new colorist, George... getting the roots beautified tomorrow and, of course, I will have before and after pics.... AHHHHH) and Yakult Cultured Drink (tastes like Pink Berry in a bottle!), among others.

I decided to take some pics and do some deeper exploration on the phenomenal products.

First up was Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics. Their claim to fame: a Mineral Rice Setting Powder meant to absorb oil, mattify shine and cover pores. I was given a trial and I LOVED IT! It made my skin so soft and it really sucked up all the excess oil. The products are extremely gentle, great for sensitive skin like mine (and they can even be used post peel or facial - and I JUST had a peel so I was ecstatic to be using a healthy powder on my red and irritated mug). It's a full color line and I hope to test out more of the products asap - so check back!



Next was M.B. York. Their tag line is "survival of the prettiest" - I just love the vanity! Founder Mary Beth York demonstrated how easy her line is to use. The shadows and colors come in pre-numbered kits that correspond with the appropriate brushes. This line is idiot-proof! But their claim to fame is a 3 step kit aptly called the Beauty Ammo Kit, used to camouflage wrinkles and under-eye bags and dark circles (Hollywood A-listers are obsessed with the kit - it's said to take years off of any woman... DIE!). We took home a kit and can't wait to test it out - check back for our review!




Next, it was over to The Face Shop for some exquisite masks like aloe vera, lemon and pomegranate. The masks come individually wrapped and are actually sheets of a gauze-like material pre-soaked in the natural fruit juices! The Korean-based company just launched their mask line in the US of A. I've never tried such a mask so I'm interested to see its outcome! But hey, Koreans have good skin... don't they?

New Balance was our next stop and they gifted us with a wonderful baby pink workout suit, embossed with the Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon. We also scored some fabulous pink and silver sneakers (I guess this means we should probably start working out...).

Yakult Cultured Drink was next up and this is such an amazing product, I'm literally floored. It's a Probiotic cultured dairy drink that is meant to infuse your body with good bacterias for a healthy lifestyle. It tastes delicious and just one tiny bottle a day does the trick. A pack of five sells for a mesely $2.99!!! There is no excuse - a healthy inside equals a healthy outside! Drink up, girlies!

Over at the spa, generously donated by YSharis Spa of Monrovia, massages were underway. Although we didn't stick around for a relaxing rub down, we did pick up a special-edition OPI Nail Polish in Pink of Hearts. Emblazoned with the pink Breast Cancer ribbon, the polish is a gorgeous hue of barely-there pink - very au natural!



Finally, we ventured to the hula-hoop section (yes, those things you used to shake around your waste in junior high school). Hoop Delite is not only a new and improved form of the hula-hoop, it also folds to half its size for easy storage!!! A great mid-section work out (and come on, who can't stand to shed a few pounds in the love handle arena?) and convenient storage? Say it ain't so! Again, no excuses for a healthy lifestyle! They also offer special hoop classes and hoop work-out dvds (like pilates or yoga, only more fun!). Click HERE for additional info. and a look at the video!




Thanks to all of the aforementioned companies for their part in helping to find a cure, and thank to The Silver Spoon for putting together such a special soiree... now it's YOUR turn! Throughout the months of September and October we will be featuring other incredible companies that are aiding in the fight against breast cancer.

Giving back makes you feel beautiful - and when you feel beautiful, chances are you're looking beautiful, too!

For more information on breast cancer, or to give yourself a personal breast exam, click HERE.

Care For Your Hair AND The Environment.. David Babaii For WildAid

I've been promising this post for quite some time - David Babaii For WildAid's Sulfate-Free Hair Products. Well, girlies, I like these products - the Amplifying Shampoo and Conditioner thoroughly cleanses without stripping my hair color or overdrying; the Bohemian Beach Spray creates that lovely "just rolled out of bed" look while still maintaining moisture - but what I really love is the initiative that this company is taking to preserve the our wildlife.

As we mentioned a couple of months ago, Kate Hudson is the spokeschick for the company. She teamed up with celebrity stylist, David Babaii to create a line of hair products that preserve our hair... and the wildlife. WildAid is "a non-profit organization that works with governments and communities of the world to reverse the devastation of our planet’s wildlife." A percentage of the money made from sales of the hair care line go to WildAid, the global wildlife conservation organization.

So, just think. When you purchase a great shampoo that protects YOUR hair you are actually protecting wild animals too! And, all of the products are made with healthy, pro-environment ingredients like volcanic ash and blue algae extract!

Now, a few thoughts on the products:

Amplifying Shampoo and Conditioner - Since the products don't contain sulfates, the shampoos don't sud as much (because sulfates are what cause shampoos to lather). But don't fret, you're still getting one thorough cleanse! I love how soft and full my hair is after using the combo. My only complaint is the scent - it's very masculine and overly-fragrant. But hey, I can't really complain! I'd rather live with a manly scent and have healthy, volumized hair (while protecting the environment), then a sweet-smelling scent and stripped hair. The Amplifying Shampoo and Conditioner contains volcanic ash for volume, white ginger for shine and coconut oil for lather (much better then those sucky sulfates!). $13.95

Bohemian Beach Spray - This is my favorite product that I've tried from the line. I love the name... "Bohemian"... because that's exactly how I feel after I spritz it on my mop. It smells delish - tropical refreshing - without being overwhelming. And it gives my hair an edge! Body and shine and sexy bed head sans sulfates, parabens and petrochemicals! Instead, the spray contains sea salt from the Dead Sea for texture, volcanic ash for volume, blue algae, mango and kiwi for hydration, AND shea butter, jojoba oil, hemp oil and cupuacu butter for added moisture! $11.95

David Babaii for WildAid proves that you don't need to use harsh chemicals and environmentally devastating ingredients to create sexy, celebrity hair! You can achieve beautiful hair without harming the environment!

Do your part to keep our world beauty-full!

For more info on the line, click HERE.

HAPPY EARTH DAY!!!!

What a beautiful earth we have... now lets keep it that way!

Today is Earth Day... and for this special day, we here at Beauty Banter, think it would be a fabulous idea to be conscious of our precious planet. Recycle, bring your own bag to the grocery store, unplug ALL electronics before bed, try walking instead of driving, and if you must drive, buy a hybrid!

For tips on recycling and conserving energy, click HERE.

And onto some beauty news....

Physicians Formula is giving away 1,000 Organic Wear bronzers in order to help make our world a little greener with makeup that’s good for the earth and for us too!
Click HERE for the give-away... Contest starts at 12pm (noon)!

Origins is giving away a Free Peace of Mind® On-the-spot-relief sample, plus free Standard Shipping with any order while supplies last.
Click HERE for the give-away... Contest is only today.

Tarte Cosmetics is offering 20% off of all orders from now until May 2, 2008.
Promotional code is: EARTH08
Click HERE for some sulfates, phthalates and synthetic fragrance free shopping!


Thanks to these incredible companies that are helping to make our Earth a more beautiful and healthy place for all!

A Lipstick A Day Keeps The Earth Okay

Earth Day is just around the corner (April 22) and in preparation for the celebration of our great earth, Cargo cosmetics has launched 3 new PlantLove lip shades, created by 3 celebrity moms: Kim Raver, Angie Harmon and Denise Richards (let's just forget for a moment that the latter mom is a fame hungry, wannabe "reality" star... and let's focus on the current project at hand).

A word (or several...) from the company:
"CARGO PlantLove is a revolutionary lipstick containing a lipstick tube made entirely out of corn - a renewable and abundant resource. The outer carton is also made of flower paper embedded with real flower seeds, which are plantable, so they allow you to give more green back to the earth. $2.00 from each tube sold is donated to St. Jude’s Pediatrics Research Hospital."

The new shades are: Cherry Bliss by Kim Raver, Grace and Faith by Angie Harmon and Sam and Lola by Denise Richards.
Sam by Denise Richards

Grace by Angie Harmon

I have yet to try these colors but I do love the red hue, Sam by Denise Richards. It's a sexy red for a sultry pout!

So make the Earth a better... and more beautiful place!

Organic Blush Give-Away!!!

Starting Wednesday, March 26, at 12:00pm EST, Physicians Formula is giving away coupons to redeem a free Organic Wear Blush at any MAJOR retailer that sells the products to the first 1,000 participants who sign up.

I've actually tried this blush and it's pretty amazing, great consistency, nice colors... and to think, it's PF's Organic Wear is  the first ever ECOCERT certified makeup line available in the US, the only organic certification for color cosmetics in the US (USDA does not certify for makeup), and it's the first ever all paper compacts made from recycled paper and fully recyclable – when you’re done with your makeup, simply toss into the recycling bin with your newspaper. 

Way to go Physician's Formula... we love us some sustainable beauty!!!

Click HERE to redeem your coupon... but remember, contest starts tomorrow, wednesday, at 12:00pm EST!!!

Good Luck!

Bamboo Brushes - Good For Your Skin, Good For the Environment

Going green takes time and patience... and a lot of trial and error. New shampoos, conditioners, skin and face products, make-up... and even new brushes! That's right... do you know that the bristles of most brushes are made from animal hair (like goat and pony)?!? AND, the plastic handles only clutter our already overcrowded land fills! So, even if you are using synthetic brushes (i.e. taklon or nylon), you're still debasing our planet with the aluminum and plastic used on the handle of the brushes... but this can ALL change!

Here is an affordable and easy solution to eco-friendly make-up brushes: ECOTOOLS, a line of earth-friendly brushes. EcoTools uses cruelty-free hair on the bristles and all natural and recyclable materials.

What you get:

A bamboo handle

Animal-free taklon bristles

Metallic ferrule made from recycled aluminum cans

Reusable pouches printed with plant-based ink

Besides doing my part to save the environment (I drive a Hybrid as well), I love how light-weight these brushes are. They practically feel like air! And they deliver just as stellar results as those other, non environmentally-friendly brushes. Make-up glides on smoothly and evenly.

EcoTools offers 6 brushes for all your make-up needs...

Powder Brush - $7.99

Blush Brush - $6.99

Angled Eyeliner Brush

Foundation Brush

Eye Shading Brush - $3.99

Lash & Brow Groomer

There really is NO excuse NOT to use eco-friendly brushes! But just in case you needed yet another reason, EcoTools has also partnered with 1% For the Planet, an organization that provides financial support to environmental initiatives. This means that by buying the brushes, 1% of all annual sales per item will be donated to this terrific cause! Sustainable beauty!!!

Looking beautiful is important, but looking beautiful while saving the environment is vital!

To learn more about ECOTOOLS, Click HERE!

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!!!)

Smashbox Spring 08... Sustainable Beauty

So as any of my loyal readers know, I am an ardent believer in sustainable beauty. Helping the environment stay beautiful while helping ourselves look beautiful is a win-win for everyone.

The new Smashbox Green Room Products deliver just this.

So, how do the greenroom products actually help the environment???

"With the purchase of every GREEN ROOM product, a Moringa tree will be planted in a developing country by Trees for the Future. The Moringa or “Miracle Tree” is a powerhouse of nutritional value and provides a self-renewing food source for people in need. More trees also mean less soil erosion and cleaner air and water for a greener future...

All GREEN ROOM packaging is biodegradable or recyclable and all products are made with environmentally-friendly formulas."

I actually had the chance to check out these products at L.A. Fall Fashion Week. I love the idea of them (environmentally friendly, biodegradable and recyclable)... just not sure if I love the actual delivery of the products... but you decide!

The Products:

HYBRID 2 IN 1 LUMINIZING PRIMER - Artificial light ion the inner tube and cult favorite, photo finish (primer) in the outer tube. Love this for barely there coverage and a fresh, dewy complexion. AND, the tube is recyclable!



GREEN ROOM BRONZER (with Moringa Seed Extract) - Bronzer on golden glow (light) or deep bronzer. Personally, I found the bronzer to be a little streaky, as it just seemed to shy away from a real "sun-kissed" effect. Although the compact is biodegradable and I'm digging that.



HYBRID 2 IN 1 COLOR & SHINE LIP GLOSS (with Moringa Seed Extract)- Color on this inside, gloss on the outside. Perfect for the no-fuss woman who likes to carry around just one lippy. When I tried this product, it totally confused me. I wasn't able to navigate between the color and the gloss as it all sort of sprouted out at the same time. But, the pink lily color is divine - a kissable baby pink hue for the pout - if only the tube was more accessible (although it is recyclable!).



GREEN ROOM EYE SHADOW QUAD (with Moringa Seed Extract) - 4 blendable shadows in a leaf pattern for contouring, highlighting and defining eyes. Blossom are pale pinks and mauves, bamboo are bronzes and greens. I was particularly impressed with the shape of the shadows... they aren't separated like most quad compacts, but rather intertwined. And in a way, this makes blending and shading that much easier. I've always loved Smashbox shadows... my last favorite, the Head Shot trio, shattered into a million little pieces while en route to Colombia. That made me terribly sad. :(



Are YOU feeling the Green Room products?

Congrats To MAC...

The M.A.C. Cosmetics A.I.D.S. Fund has reached a milestone - they have raised $100 million dollars for HIV and AIDS!!!!

"The money represents the sale, over the past 13 years, of more than 7.1 million VIVA GLAM lip products – of which 100 per cent of the sale price has gone to the work of the Fund."

That's a lot of lipsticks!

We sincerely congratulate MAC on their incredible philanthropic endeavor. May other companies follow in their giant footsteps...