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Nov 7, 2010

TEMPTU + Dereon = Beyonce Tattoos

Beyonce and Tina Knowles announce today that Beyond Productions has partnered with TEMPTU to produce a limited edition collection of temporary tattoos under the Dereon label. The collection of body art was commissioned by Tina Knowles and is inspired by Beyonce. The collectible kit of temporary tattoos includes the exclusive designs and tattoo essentials used on set to achieve the "real tattoo" looks featured on Beyonce in the Dereon Fall 2010 campaign.



Company founder, creative director and designer Tina Knowles said, "With a 60's pin-up girl meets futuristic biker chick theme, Beyonce and I really wanted to give our Dereon Fall 2010 campaign a tough, edginess and we decided to invite TEMPTU to help us create custom body art for her to model with our fashions. The resulting images were so incredibly strong that we realized consumers might want to re-create the tattoos themselves. We are thrilled to partner with TEMPTU to bring this limited edition collection of temporary tattoos to the market this holiday season."
Available in 3 distinctive cases, each Collector's Edition Kit features a unique set of coveted Beyonce photographs. This exclusive assortment of signature TEMPTU temporary tattoo ink transfers, contains a variety of designs including signature Dereon fleur icons, rocker bolts and chains, monochromatic jewel baubles, and seductive spider designs. With proper application and care, each waterproof tattoo will last 2 to 5 days so you can wear your new body art until you want to take it off or switch it out for a new one.


TEMPTU Deréon Temporary Tattoos - Collector's Editions, $16.00 Sephora.com


6:00 AM by Joi 0 Cents , .



Nov 6, 2010

Bobbi Brown Illuminating Finish Powder Compact Foundation


“It’s taken me more than five years to create this foundation. I tested it at shoots, on models, friends and my team until I got it just right. Applied wet or dry, it evens out your skin and gives it a brightness that lasts all day—in any kind of lighting. And because it’s so finely milled, it looks incredibly natural.” - Bobbi Brown


A foundation that cuts shine while creating a radiant, diffused look. Creamy and soft to the touch yet light and airy, this buildable powder formula can be applied wet or dry. Reflective pigments optically diffuse skin imperfections and minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles for a flawless, even glow.

The Feel - A unique combination of emollient Coco-Glyceride and spherical powders give the formula its soft, weightless and cushiony feel and help it glide on easily and blend seamlessly.
The Benefits - Coated pigments provide a matte, velvety texture while reflective pigments deliver a fresh, healthy glow.


Customize your level of coverage:

For high coverage, smooth it on with a damp sponge.

For medium coverage, apply it with a puff or dry sponge.

For sheer coverage, dust it on with a powder brush.


Available in 20 skin tone-correct shades.

Suggested Retail Price: $40.00

Available October 2010 at Bobbi Brown counters and http://www.bobbibrown.com/


6:00 AM by Joi 0 Cents .



Nov 5, 2010

Movado Bold


Movado launched the Bold Collection which is eye-popping compared to the relatively plain jane designs of other Movado collections. I'm a fan of the Pink and Black look, how about you? The design featured retails at $350.00


12:00 PM by Joi 1 Cents , .



Nov 4, 2010

Bubble Bath Bliss



I'm a fan on taking baths, unfortunately I don't have a huge soaker tub with jets but I can dream right? Anyway, I love soaking in a warm bath with candles flickering in the background and a glass of wine on deck. What makes the bath is the additives, like bubbles, salts, oils, or fizzies. I actually prefer salts and oils but occasionally I'll drop in a fizzie and giggle like a little kid as it fizzles away. Calgon makes great bath items and they also recently revamped their look, along with the new look they launched new products like the Bubbly Bath Fizzy Set and the Relaxing Bath Salts.








The new products can be found were Calgon products are sold.









7:05 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



Essie Winter 2010 Collection




The Essie Winter 2010 Collection is amazing! The advertisements feature a masquerade mask that goes perfectly with the theme of the collection. Essie says, "Intriguing color is the new sexy." The collection features deep mysterious shades, such as smokin' hot, masqueade belle, hot coco, and luxedo and as usual a pop of color in the shade silken cord, the wild card of this collection is going incognito a shade of green.

What do you think? Are you in love with this collection or what?!?


12:59 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



Spanx Sale


The holidays are coming and November is notorious for being the month of High School Reunions so this year wow everyone! The label that all the celebs wear on the red carpets but never mention, Spanx is now on sale at Gilt Group. Hurry and buy because I know this is a sale that's going to sell out quickly!


12:00 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



Glamour + L'Oreal = Limited Edition Nail Polish



In honor of the twentieth anniversary of Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards, L’Oréal Paris and Glamour have teamed up for the first time to create an exclusive, limited edition nail polish shade called Glamour Woman of the Year. For four consecutive years, Glamour has raised money for extraordinary philanthropic organizations through the Glamour Women of the Year Fund initiative; this year the initiative supports the humanitarian efforts of Dr. Hawa Abdi of Somalia. Three dollars of every bottle sold will go to support her efforts.

The Glamour Woman of the Year nail polish is available exclusively on shopglamour.com. The limited edition polish will retail for $6.50, with nearly half of the purchase price going to benefit the philanthropic efforts of Dr. Abdi. To learn more about Dr. Abdi’s inspiring story, visit glamour.com/woty or dhaf.org


11:02 AM by Joi 0 Cents .



New Mag Alert: Today's Black Woman Style Report


There's a new style magazine hitting the stands for women of color, Today's Black Woman Style Report. The magazine focuses on wonderful style options for women of color including celebrity style, fabulous clothing, accessories, designer and affordable fashions. Where to buy Black products, hair and beauty, boosting personal growth, home interiors, food, entertainment, and a variety of other smart shopping finds and more are included. Editor-in-Chief Adrienne Moore has welcomed the renowned fashion expert Ionia Dunn Lee to the team who will serve as Fashion Director. Ionia brings her many years of outstanding knowledge of the fashion industry to Today's Black Woman.
Will you be picking up the issue?


8:57 AM by Joi 0 Cents .



Clarisonic Cleansing System Purchase Guide

If you are anything like me you've been eyeing the Clarisonic for a while now. You've been hearing amazing reviews popping up left and right and you're dying to get your hands on one but the steep price tag is keeping you at bay.

That was me, I even turned to my dermatologist for some answers and when she told me that with my skin type a Clarisonic would be a waste of money I was taken back. Could she have misunderstood my question? Maybe she didn't know exactly what I was talking about? But alas, she knew exactly which product I was asking about and warned me not to fall prey to the hype. Still, I researched and kept on reading glowing reviews but with all the different models available I was confused. You might be in the same boat so here's a handy guide to help you determine which Clarisonic is right for you.



The Clarisonic Classic Sonic Skin Cleansing System is the original skin cleansing device—it utilizes sonic technology to lift dirt and oil from the skin 2x better than and makeup 6x better than manual cleansing.





The Clarisonic PLUS Sonic Skin Cleansing System is the same as the Classic except that it comes with three speeds and a separate brush for use on the body. Best for those with body issues as well as facial issues, but has a heftier price tag.







The Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System is the travel-sized version of the Classic, and it comes in fun colors such as pink (benefits Look Good…Feel Better), yellow, blue and lavender, in addition to white. This is perfect for those who are on a budget because you get the same benefits as the Classic, with a smaller price tag. Notice that there is no charging base instead it plugs in.






The Opal Sonic Infusion System combines sonic micro-massage with a proprietary Anti-Aging Serum that starts to work immediately on the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Best for aging skin.

I decided to go with the Classic and I'll be reviewing it shortly.


6:00 AM by Joi 0 Cents , .



Nov 3, 2010

Man-tastic: Soft Man Hands

(Davines Hammam Hand Ritual Kit, $28 Davines.com)

Men should have nice hands. Hands often make the top list of things that women look at first in a potential mate. Man hands don't necessarily have to be soft, but they should be clean and well groomed. The Davines Hammam Hand Ritual Kit contains the Hammam Hand Scrub and Hammam Hand Cream. The luxurious cream-gel formula of the hand scrub removes dead skin cells with gentle exfoliating jojoba spheres and hydrating rice germ oils. This skin-quenching hand cream protects and nourishes hands and cuticles with moisture-rich rice bran oil. The packaging is man friendly and relatively wallet friendly as well.



4:44 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



Fashion on the Blvd. - Is Rihanna Falling Off?

48865, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - Sunday October 31, 2010. Rihanna hides behind her red bangs as she is helped out of Wembley Studios after performing on The X Factor . Later on in the evening, Rihanna arrived back at her London hotel under the cover of a large fur coat. Photograph: PacificCoastNews.com


Rihanna was recently spotted over the pond in London (where rumor has it, she's moving) wearing a fur jacket with a sweater, leggings, and white Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte Sandals.

48865, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - Sunday October 31, 2010. Rihanna hides behind her red bangs as she is helped out of Wembley Studios after performing on The X Factor . Later on in the evening, Rihanna arrived back at her London hotel under the cover of a large fur coat. Photograph: PacificCoastNews.com

Lately her outfits have been uninspiring and drab, what do you think?



Oct. 27, 2010 - New York, New York, U.S. - RIHANNA .signs copies of her new book at Barnes & Noble in New York City 10-27-2010. I14982KBA. © Red Carpet Pictures

PARIS - OCTOBER 06: Rihanna attends the Miu Miu Ready to Wear Spring/Summer 2011 show during Paris Fashion Week on October 6, 2010 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
45704, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - October 10, 2010. Rihanna looks a bit tired as she is seen returning back to her London hotel after an all day shopping spree at TopShop on Oxford Street. The fiery red haired singer was assisted by a personal shopper as she picked all her favorites from the Autumn collection. Rihanna was a t-shirt with the phrase 'She Died Of Perfection' t-shirt. Photograph: Smart Pictures, PacificCoastNews.com


4:31 PM by Joi 1 Cents .



Black Opal Maximum Strength Plus


Did you know that Black Opal has more than just cosmetic? Black Opal makes skin care products too. I guess I was living under a rock because I had no idea, but their newest collection is for ladies with dark spots from acne. One of the most common skin problems for us ladies with beautiful brown skin.


The Black Opal Maximum Strength Plus is a unique formula containing the highest concentration level of hydroquinone in a non-prescription. The system results in a more rejuvenated complexion. The conditioning citrus and lotus extracts work in tandem to smooth and calm skin during the fading process, resulting in even-tone beautiful skin.

Delivering the same results as the maximum strength formula, the Black Opal Sensitive Skin system cares for reactive skin. Formulated with Sepi-White, a gentle yet effective fading agent, it targets the root of hyperpigmentations and fades dark spots and discolorations. The natural citrus and lotus extracts soothe, calm, and protect sensitive skin while maintaining the overall health of the skin.

Please note these products are not designed to lighten your overall skin tone, they are just designed to fade unsightly marks and scars. I've been testing out the products and so far I'm really liking them. I've noticed no irritation, no breakouts, and a more even looking complexion.
Black Opal Skin Care products are available at your local drugstores, except I haven't been able to find them at mine unfortunately.


6:00 AM by Joi 0 Cents .



Nov 2, 2010

Fresher Air - Vermont Soap Company


Cleaning is not one of my favorite things to do, but it's an essential part of living on your own. Once everything is clean and tidy I love to spritz air freshener on my curtains, bed, and just around in the air. My latest favorite is from the Vermont Soap company. The new Aromatherapy Air Fresheners are free of artificial colors and fragrances, chemical preservatives, and animal by-products. They are also not tested on animals. Artificial fragrances in some deodorizing products on the market can cause nausea, headaches, irritated skin, respiratory reactions and other allergic conditions. The new natural air fresheners from Vermont Soap contain only pure essential oil aromas that provide aromatherapy benefits for the mind, but don’t irritate the skin or nose.

The only downside is that it the scent doesn't last as long as other non-natural brands.


6:00 AM by Joi 0 Cents .



Nov 1, 2010

Beauty from a Pumpkin

First on the pumpkin front, sure they can be frightfully enjoyable to carve, and are phenomenal in pie, but here's a fact: they're good for our health and our skin! Thanks to loads of potassium, zinc and fiber, pumpkins are thought to improve eye health (macular degeneration), lower the risk of hypertension, boost the immune system and improve bone density. Science also suggests pumpkins have the ability to enhance our skin's natural radiance and boost hydration!



Products featuring PUMPKIN:

Arbonne FC 5™ collection - Swiss skincare line features a first-of-its-kind fresh cell technology where vital cell phytonutrients are encapsulated to keep them fresh, pure, and potent. Why? Because plant metabolisms are very similar to those of humans, which make them extremely compatible with human skin.

This exclusive fresh science, coupled with the nutrients from five fruits and vegetables (including pumpkin!), helps preserve the youthful radiance of skin by delivering beneficial hydration, necessary cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturization. Plus the added benefit of UVA and UVB protection helps pause the signs of aging.

FC 5 incorporates five key ingredients, which benefit skin:

Pumpkin – moisturizing properties and bursting with B-carotene
Kiwi – extraordinary source of antioxidants
Strawberry – known for its purifying and toning properties
Carrot – to soothe and calm, ripe with B-carotene
Mango – nurturing and hydrating

(Pumpkin Enzyme Mask, $32 Sanitas-skincare.com)


Sanítas Skincare Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is only made once a year with organic pumpkin. Who knew that pumpkins have great exfoliating enzymes to lighten and brighten your face for a more refreshed look? Along with the pumpkin, this active mask has hyaluronic acid, vitamins and squalene. Use it in the shower so that the steam activates the mask or apply a generous amount to clean, damp skin and leave on for up to 15 minutes. Pumpkin Enzyme Mask may be used 1-2 times a week. The Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is a stimulating enzyme mask is formulated with naturally exfoliating enzymes from fresh pumpkin that helps improve skin texture and tone. The mask nourishes and moisturizes with vitamins and essential fatty acids while improving circulation, accelerating skin tissue regeneration and stimulating collagen production.


5:02 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



Sweet Day Dreams

When you work nights, it's hard to get the same type of rest during the day as you would normally get at night. This leads to irritability and severe crankiness, all my night time workers know exactly what I'm talking about. All night while you are working you might find yourself sleepy and ready for bed, but then once the sun comes up and you drive home it's like you get a second wind. Once you hit your home, you're not as tired and it's a bit of a struggle to fall asleep most nights. I've found that I really have to wind down thoroughly or I don't sleep well during the day. Here are a few things that help me out:


(Earth Therapeutics Holistic Stress Management Kit, $19.99 earththerapeutics.com)

This kit includes four items to help you relieve stress before heading to bed. The Anti-Stress Massage Soap, is a great way to begin to unwind in a warm bath or shower. The essential aromatic blend soothes the mind just as the special elevated massage nodes of the soap bar soothe the body. After my shower I like to rub the Anti-Stress Massage Lotion into my hands for a total sensory relaxation. The kit also includes an Anti-Stress Silk Eye Pillow, and Herba-Gel Eyelid Compress.


Dream Water is the first water that helps you relax and fall asleep. Safe as a warm glass of milk and more effective than counting sheep, Dream Water contains three natural relaxation ingredients that will transport you to a sound and restful sleep, including GABA, melatonin and 5-htp (tryptophan). Plus it comes in a convenient 2.5 oz bottle, small enough to stick into your purse or carry on, or to stash at your nightstand. I've tried it and I must say that it really didn't do much for me the first time I tried it, but the second time it worked a little bit. I was able to relax a little bit faster than usual, but I think I'll stick with a benadryl for the rough mornings.


4:42 PM by Joi 0 Cents .



New Obsession: EOS Lip Balm


I absolutely love lip gloss, super shiny lips are my favorite but as a nurse I don't wear super shiny sticky lip gloss to work. I've convinced myself that all the germs floating around will stick to my super duper sticky lips and then I'll be full of coodies! Thankfully, eos (evolution of smooth) launched their new Anti-Bacterial Tangerine Lip Balm Smooth Sphere just in time for flu season! This 95% natural, petrolatum and paraben-free, daily-use lip balm provides anti-bacterial protection with the use of Phenol and offers medicated relief to help sooth dry lips and alleviate symptoms of cold sores. Its revolutionary smooth sphere packaging provides a direct, hygienic application and is packed with antioxidants, zinc, vitamins C and E, shea butter and jojoba oil to keep your lips healthy and germ-free this flu season. Can you image? An anti-bacterial lip balm! Totally unnecessary for the general population, but needed by all nurses and school teachers! I'm a huge fan!
Visit the EOS site for purchase info


6:00 AM by Joi 1 Cents .