TheGlossBox

Mémoire Liquide Custom Fragrances

2012-01-20T00:39:00.001-05:00

I recently went to one of my favorite stores in NYC - Henri Bendel. I had some time to kill before meeting a friend, so I decided to head upstairs to play around with some scents. I was lucky enough to run into my handsome friend Vijay Uttam, who is a talented beauty expert and fashion stylist. He introduced me to a line of customizable fragrances from the brand - Memoire Liquide, which has a collection of 160 base scents, separated into various categories: Le Fleurist, Mélange Gourmandise, Les Ences, Bois et Espices, Les Tropiques, and Les Senteurs Musc.

Vijay asked me what my scent preferences were, in order to custom blend a scent for me. I prefer floral scents with a little fruit and spice, and something nice : ). As you can imagine, I felt like a kid in a candy store. There were so many beautiful scents to choose from - Orange Sanquine, Bisou au Chocolat, Nymphea, Tobacco Flower, Fleur des Tropiques, Black Fig, Jasmin hypnotique, Nudite Absolue, etc. We spend a good half hour testing out various custom blends. Vijay started by blending various types of vanilla, rose, neroli and musk scents. While the scents were sweet and beautiful, I reminded myself of my New Year's resolutions, one of which is to be brave an try new things. I requested that we stay away from Vanilla, Rose, and any citrus scents.

We spent a good 40 minutes testing out various blends. I don't think there is a limit to the number of base scents you can blend. Some of the base scents are so lovely, that you could be very pleased with just one. I believe there are about 4 different intoxicating rose scents to choose from. What is amazing about this line is that you can custom create your own blend... a blend that no one else has. No need to purchase fragrances by Britney, Beyonce, or Kim K. Be original and create your own!

After a great deal of testing, sniffing, and chatting, we finally chose a blend of two beautiful base scents. Now, I can't tell you what base scents I chose, as it is my secret. : ) I will tell you though that I chose an intriguing combination of a flower and a fruit. The combination would shock you, as one would never think to put the two together. It is sultry and mysterious, and I have received a few compliments and requests for it. All I can say is that it is my own custom fragrance created by a friend.

xo,
G

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil

2012-01-18T20:16:00.000-05:00

The other day I was running out of my apartment to meet a friend. I realized after about 10 minutes that I forgot my lipgloss and chapstick! It was such an uncomfortable feeling, especially for someone with dry skin and pale lips like mine. I was once asked a question... if you could only own one piece of makeup what would it be??? Lip gloss!!! Yes, hands down lip gloss. I feel and look so naked without the stuff!

So, during the winter I am constantly applying lip gloss, which obviously is not the most moisturizing thing to apply to chapped lips. It really just makes your lips even more chapped. I recently discovered a great lip balm that is moisturizing, adds a tinge of color to your lips, totally cheap, and contains good for you ingredients!!! An item I TRY to never leave home without these days is the Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil. The lip balm comes in a chapstick kind of tube, so you don't have to worry about the icky germs that may live in pots of gloss or balm. The balm is really smooth and moisturizing. The pomegranate oil is antioxidant packed and tastes so good!

Pomegranate Oil: Pomegranate fruit extract, from the tree Punica granatum, contains several polyphenols and anthocyanidins (pigment that gives certain fruits their dark red colors), which are highly antioxidant, protecting hair and skin from environmental stress.
Another thing I love about this balm is that it adds a hint of berry pink color. Perfect for pale lips like mine! The best thing about this balm is that it cost $3. You can treat yourself to a balm per handbag, so you seriously never leave home without it!

Enjoy!

G

Our favorite Lip Balms and Lip Butters!!!

2012-01-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you look through my handbags you will always find a selection of lip sticks, glosses and lip balms. These days I'm always digging through my bag for something to soothe my dry and chapped lips. It's getting getting cold and my lips are feeling it and showing it! Check out some of S and my favorite Lip Balms and Lip Butters to keep your lips hydrated throughout the cold months ahead!

Keep those lips soft, smooth and hydrated!

XO,
S&G

Creme de La Mer. A Mother of Cream.

2011-12-27T01:56:00.001-05:00

Well. I am sure some of you have heard this brou-ha-ha over Creme de la Mer Moisturizing Cream-- I certainly had. "It works!", "it's a gimmick", "it was bought over in 1996 by Estee Lauder and since then it has never been the same", " it was a sea kelp miracle invented by a burn victim and it healed him", "JLO puts it all over her body which is why she doesn't look a day over 31".

Wait! If JLO (who I know hates being called that, but I am sort of stuck in the late 90s, pop- culturally speaking)-- she of the beauty which is so creamy and cool and nude-y-- rubs this all over her bodacious bod, I had to see what all the fuss is about.

So began my foray into exploring the mystery behind Creme de la Mer. I was convinced, like I usually am about $130 for 1oz face creams-- that they are a farce. A ploy to get Asian women who still think Louis Vuitton is actually a luxury brand to buy the $1395 tubs of this stuff, because they CAN, and convince them that their perfect Asian complexions, which weren't going to crack anyway, are kept that way because they are using this cream.

However- I finally got some of this cream for myself. I am a skeptic and I think Oil of Olay is a perfectly wonderful face cream. I was instructed at the Neiman's counter about how to use this Creme de la Mer omg-it's-so-wonderful cream. I needed to emulsify it between my palms and then sort of dab it in to my skin to start seeing and feeling results. Got that? Rub until clear, and then pat pat pat into your skin.

It's been a week, and there has been a change in my skin's 'smooth' factor. Something is different-- something is creamier. I will never be like JLO-- but something is right about the way my skin is handling itself. Having packed on a few pounds over the holidays (I am way past my "Hey Baby" weight-- you know-- the perfect weight where you get hit on like all the time and all of a sudden your jeans from when you were totally off carbs look good and you and homeless AND trannies comment on you). Anyway I am waaaaay past that point, but yet somehow, I have been getting a lot of compliments. From the baggage handler to the taxi guy to the TSA security peeps-- and it's definitely not because my hips look like I could easily slip out a set of quints when I sneeze. TRUST. I think it might be the cream, and the way it makes my skin look younger.

Anyway, the bottom line is there is some truth to the hype in my experience. I don't know if the 'miracle broth' that they tout so heavily is really anything more than vaseline in an expensive jar. I am not a scientist, I am just a simple cavewoman consumer. But the point is, I don't know if I can live without this cream. I am shamefully addicted... I need my next fix.

I believe.

Kisses,

Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Hair Shampoo

2011-12-26T09:45:00.002-05:00

If you are a busy girl like me, finding time to wash your hair can sometimes a problem. The process of washing my hair takes forever! I have really dry hair, so I need to use a conditioning mask that I leave in my hair for about 5 - 8 minutes. Then I have to blow dry my hair, which takes around 20 minutes, and then use a curling brush (if I have somewhere special to go) to create some soft pretty waves. The process takes forever... almost an hour and a half! I now understand the excuse, "Sorry. Can't make it tonight. I'm washing my hair." This is a very valid excuse!

So, I was complaining to my sis how I can't stand washing my hair, and she suggested I try out the Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Hair Shampoo. I had heard about these dry shampoos in passing, but never really thought about using them. So, I always try out my sister's product recos, and decided to give this one a go. The Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Hair Shampoo is a powder shampoo that you apply to your hair when you don't have time to wash it. It really works! I know you are probably asking yourself how can a powder wash my hair!? Well, it's simple actually, powder is great for absorbing up oil and excess product gunk. When my hair starts to feel a little oily, I will separate my hair into sections, and apply the powder to my scalp. The bottle has a convenient slim pointed cap that makes it easy to apply. Just section your hair one fold at a time, as if you are trying out different ways to part your hair, and gently squeeze the power onto the scalp. Make sure you don't press the bottle too hard or too much powder will come out and make a mess! Once you have applied the powder to the various sections of your scalp, spread out your fingers and rub your scalp vigorously. If you have dark hair like mine, you will need to rub your scalp more vigorously and for a longer period of time, or else you will leave the look of powder residue is your hair. The process takes about 10 minutes. Totally worth it. This stuff really takes the oil out of your hair and actually gives your hair a bouncy and more full look!

The Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Hair Shampoo is a real life saver! I have honestly not gone out on some nights because my hair looks like crap and I know I won't have fun... well until I found this stuff! Even after a long day at work, I can now rush home, take a quick shower body wash, and get out and apply the dry hair shampoo, and I'm good to go! This powder has the clean scent of lemons and also does not contain parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes, petro-chemicals, phythalates, GMO or triclosan.

This dry shampoo retails for around $11 for a 1 oz. bottle. Not bad at all! Perfect size for traveling too! I bought mine at Sephora. I also just read that Oscar Blandi has a dry shampoo spray! I'm going to have to check this out and get back to you!

This is an absolute time saver for all you busy ladies and I know you will love it! Note: Don't freak out if you see powder residue! It just means that you have to rub it in a bit longer! Worth it!

Enjoy!

Oribe Hair Care Part Deux: The Luxurious Shampoo

2011-12-24T15:57:00.002-05:00

Very scientifically speaking (because you know like how totally awesome and way rad science is and how much I cite it)-- your hair can affect how your day goes. A Yale University study that came out in January of 2000 backed up this claim, saying both men and women suffered -- feeling less smart, less capable, more embarrassed and less sociable on bad hair days. So it wasn't just a feeling. Marianne LaFrance at Yale University has confirmed my suspicions.

Personally, for me, a person with very dried out and damaged hair thanks to years of dyes and bleaches, COLD days are usually bad hair days. I have a natural wave, but on cold days (such as the lovely 8-14 inches we are currently experiencing here in lovely New York City) -- cold days are bone dry and make my hair go static and straight if I happen to blow dry. About a month ago, I was out with my friends P. & Co. in from out of town-- and my hair in the front was sticking up like Einstein. It would escape from the bobby pin and all night, I posed for photos with these antennae. They have their own album on facebook.

Luckily, shortly after my out 'o town guests had left, I discovered the Oribe line of conditioner-- which softened up my hair considerably and has made it more manageable. I promised to update when I tried the shampoo line and here, as promised, is my sample love letter to Mr. Oribe.

Dear Mr. Oribe,

Thank you so much for developing your line of shampoos and conditioners, because I feel they were made specifically for me. No longer can my Mom tsk tsk me for my dry and damaged hair due to not taking her advice and continuing to go blonder and blonder. I will visit her more often now, so she can shift the criticism to my choice in careers and my inability to find a man with whom I can have a lasting relationship.

No longer will I bemoan the shininess of all those ladies in the streets who look like they stole a weave from a Pantene commercial, whose cascading tresses have caused the bile of envy to rise up in me. I am now in the League of Good Hair, and will knock on wood every time someone compliments my soft, shiny locks-- and share my secret (even though you are priced prohibitively for me at $44 for the shampoo and $47 for my apres-shampoo aka conditioner. )

Thank you for making a product that makes me feel like every day is a good hair day. For all the functional days you have put back in my calendar, I would like to blow you a kiss. so Kiss kiss kiss kiss kiss (you get the point. Add about 45 more).

Your fan for life,
S.

Bottom line is that I have been using the Oribe shampoos AND conditioners from the Brilliance and Shine series, and they have done wonders for my hair. I just can't get over it. It's the first time I have used a shampoo and can specifically attribute it as being the sole savior of my hair. I normally wouldn't doubly laud a product unless I was madly in love with it-- so you can imagine how strongly I feel about this shampoo. The two drawbacks for me are the price and how little I get for the dollar. But can you really put a price on good hair? (um yeah you can and IN THIS ECONOMY, you know, the one I hate so much, I feel very very bad waxing poetic over my love for this shampoo. I can't help it! I love it!)

It's the little miracles in life that make me happy. Having softer hair is definitely one of them. Now can I just say how bummed out I get when there's 8-14 inches of snow and no one is around to appreciate my good hair day! They should do a study on that. I wish someone would come on over to see it...

Oh well.

Happy, healthy, Rapunzel-ite Kisses!

Ahava® Dermud™ – Intensive Nourishing Body Cream

2011-11-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

Oprah Winfrey periodically has those shows where she features women in their 50’s who look like they are in their 20’s or early 30’s. I’m always shocked at how amazing these women really look. She asks the audience, “How old to you think Lisa is? The audience screams, 29, 31, 32, 35!!! Oprah yells in her signature voice, “54,” and the audience screams and applauds! One particularly gorgeous woman in her 50’s said that the key to beauty is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! I totally agree! I’ve been applying thick, rich, moisturizing creams to my dry skin for many years! It really makes a difference! I do get some notice! ; ) One particular body cream that I have been faithful to my many years is the Ahava Intensive Nourishing Body Cream for dry skin. This cream is truly fantastic. It contains good for you ingredients such as:

Dead Sea mud infused with Vitamin E

Pro-vitamin B5

Aloe Vera

Mineral Skin Osmoter™ - - A truly unique, concentrated extract of Dead Sea water, theMineral Skin Osmoter™ (MSO) was created using a natural evaporation process. It contains precise, scientifically balanced levels of magnesium, calcium and potassium elements to enable the skin to optimize its cell functions.

It absorbs easily and leaves a cooling effect on the skin. Seriously feels fantastic! What I love about the Ahava Dermud products is that the products contain Dead Sea mud extracts in a unique patented formulation. The products are rich in moisture-enabling minerals and other soothing, natural agents, which effectively treat all dryness and reactive skin parameters that affect your complexion (itchiness, redness, scaling, and roughness).

This cream retails for around $30. Yes, a bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it if you want young looking skin for many years to come. I have noticed in the last year that some retailers are no longer carrying the Ahava Dermud line. Years ago I used to purchase it at Nordstrom or Bath and Body Works, but some retail locations don't carry it anymore. They do carry products within the Ahava line but sometimes not Dermud. I buy my cream from CO Bigelow. You can also purchase the products on-line at the Ahava website. Personally I prefer the Dermud line of body creams to the Ahava line of body creams. I have used the Ahava Mineral Body lotion (after a woman at Nordstrom convinced me it was the same as the Dermud cream... only better. I don't think so!!!) and find the cream to be too watery (you get that uncomfortably dry feeling after about 10 minutes of applying) and the smell is absolutely nauseating! It smells like one of those cheap lotions that you sometimes find at random B&B's. The kind you only used in an absolute emergency, but if you were me you would just suffer and wait to find a Duane Reade.

Anyways, I love the Ahava DERMUD body cream. It keeps my skin looking fresh and young! Look out Oprah!

Hugs!

Chanel Glossimer glosses – Oh how loverly!!!

2011-10-10T18:16:00.002-04:00

I loooooove Chanel Glossimer glosses! They apply beautifully and look so good! I’ve been using Chanel glosses for almost 6 years! The color selection is so classy. I feel so chic when I take one of the lovely glosses out of my purse and apply it! The packaging is so simple and elegant. My favorite colors are:

Summer Plum – My first ever purchase from the Channel beauty counter! A gorgeous sugar plum color that is so chic! Looks great on its own

Sunset Gold – A gorgeous peachy gold. Your lips will look lusciously glossy with a hint of glittery gold shimmer. My lips are pretty much the same color as my skin, so the sunset gold on its own kind blends into my skin. I like to wear the sunset gold over a peachy, pink lip color.

Unity – A gorgeous bronzy, frosty gloss that always looks classy. The color looks great on its own!

Spark – A gorgeous raspberry color that I absolutely love. It is the perfect color to wear out at night. A show stopper! I have lost the gloss about three times!!! Traveling with a little bag is always asking for trouble. That is why I carry tank bags R!!!!

The glosses retail for around $29. Totally worth the price! The gloss stays on your lips without feeling too sticky. I always receive compliments when wearing these glosses.

You deserve a treat, and this is a great one!!!

Hugs,

Sabon Body Scrub: My favorite body scrub

2011-09-14T10:02:00.000-04:00

NYC weather can be brutal on your skin. Recently I found an at home solution to make your skin soft and smooth at an apothecary style shop called Sabon. The shop has a very rustic feel and smells so delicious. You can get candles, thick cakes of sweet smelling soap, lotions, oils, and scrubs. All products contain natural ingredients. The scrubs and salts are made from Dead Sea extracts, herbs and flowers from the Israeli countryside, and aromatherapy oils.

I am a huge fan of the Sabon body scrub in Coconut Vanilla. I find the other body scrubs have scents that are too strong, and you end up smelling like a strong bathroom spray. The Coconut Vanilla scent is just perfect with a light fresh smell that lingers all day.

Application:

The best way to apply it is to get into your shower (don’t turn on the water). I scrub in this order….start with my thighs, then back, and then arms. I scrub with both hands in a clockwise motion. I avoid my stomach, calves, chest, neck and face (don’t ever use this on your face!!!) These areas tend to be very sensitive. I use about 4 scoops (purchase the $1 wooden scoop). Turn on the shower and feel your new smoothness. It is amazing! When are done showering don’t dry yourself with too much rigor. Just pat your body dry. I like immediately apply a body oil (Bobby Brown Beach Oil or Vaseline body Butter Vitalizing Gel Body Oil. Believe me lady….. you will have the softest skin of your life.

I do this treatment once a week. If you have normal to oily skin you can do the scrub treatment twice a week.

You skin will start looking younger and smoother. I am addicted!

Check it out!

http://www.sabonnyc.com/

Hugs!

G

Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color in Coral Pink

2011-08-02T10:21:00.000-04:00

I have been a fan of lip color since I was in diapers! If you read TheGlossBox regularly you know about some of my childhood mishaps with lipstick. He he! So, I used to act in plays when I was younger and there were about four makeup items that we were all encouraged to wear on stage. Apparently Wet n' Wild turquoise eye shadow, bright pink blush, powder way to light for my skin, and coral lipstick were stage friendly colors. Fortunately, I did not continue to use most of these stage colors into adulthood, but I do continue to use coral shades on my lips and cheeks! Coral shades look fabulous on darker skintones! My friends are always surprised when I pull out such colors out of my hand bag. They are shocked at how the colors look in the packaging and how amazing they look on! Coral colors give those with darker skin a fresh bright healthy glow. Perfect for summer!

One color that I am absolutely in love with at the moment is the Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color in Coral Pink. The color is fabulously fresh and flattering. A light smoky eye, some bronzer, Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color in Coral Pink on your lips, and your out the door! It's the perfect summer look! The lipstick is very creamy and moisturizing. It is formulated with emollient Shea Butter and skin conditioners! As creamy as it is, it does have some staying power! I don't find myself applying it all that often. It retails for around $22.

Enjoy your new summer look!
Hugs,
G

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

2011-07-10T10:46:00.000-04:00

I'm a sucker for beauty products with a story. If it was used by Greek royalty, contains an ingredient from in a rare plant found on an island, or was a staple in Marilyn Monroe's beauty bag... I have to try it! So, I was at the airport recently looking for a rich beauty cream to give me that fresh healthy look after getting off of a flight. Btw... side note, why don't people dress up for flights anymore? When I was little my mom used to buy my sister and I a new airport outfit. So fun! I've decided to glam it up at the airport from now on. A black dress, a sheer bright scarf, a slouchy bag and some comfy boots! No more Eva Longoria, Juicy Couture lounge sets! No more old navy work out pants and bright pink stretch t's. No more!

So, I was at the airport wandering the aisles of international duty free. I noticed a gondola with a huge promo for the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. I watched a couple of pretty flight attendants grab of a few of these creams and casually toss them into their baskets. I've always been fascinated with flight attendants since I was a little girl. Not so much the American ones... but definitely the international ones! They are so glamorous and pretty. They must get some kind of beauty allowance because they go on serious airport shopping sprees! Btw... I was a flight attendant for Halloween. he he!

Believe it or not... I had never heard of the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. It's famous! The Eight Hour Cream is one of the first beauty cult classics. This cream was a staple in Marilyn Monroe's Beauty bag. Elizabeth Arden created the cream in 1930 to soothe dry, chapped, cracked skin. Although it is called a cream, it feels more like a balm. It contains a combination of petrolatum, skin soothing beta-hydroxy and vitamin E. I apply a generous amount of this apricot colored balm to my face and lips prior to takeoff. (Btw... It shows up clear on your skin) It does leave your face looking a bit oily, but totally worth it when you see your face after you get off a flight. My face looked plump and fresh, without any of those annoying little lines that appear after being mile high for so many hours. I have also started using it on my elbows and feet... and even on the scar on my leg from my tour bus accident in Rio. For dry skin like mine, this product is such a dream! It smells so good too... like a day at the spa!

Here are 8 great ways to use to the Eight Hour Cream, directly from the Elizabeth Arden website:

Alleviate dry skin
Great gloss for lips
Highlight eyelids, cheeks and shoulders
For after shaving or waxing
Shape brows into place
Soften rough, dry cuticles
Antidote for rough heels and soles
Best in-flight moisture booster

This cream retails for around $25. Totally worth the price, because the tub lasts for quite a while. The packing is so fab too! The most recent packaging is 50's vintage inspired. A perfect tub of cream to display wherever you keep your beauty products.

Give your rough, chapped and cracked skin a break. An Eight Hour Break!

Hugs,

Yes To Carrots Lip Butter

2011-07-10T10:02:00.000-04:00

As you know, S and I test a lot of products. Shampoos, Body Creams, Face Creams, Foundations, Concealers, Eyes Shadows, Blushes, Glosses, Liners... the list goes on and on! We recently received warnings from our mummy's that all this testing may not be so good for us. Read the following in an Indian Accent (this really could be either of our mothers):

"Please be vise! Don't test soooo many of these creams beems and makeups! This is all nonsense you know! You'll soon end up looking like Aunty Gulabi! Do you vant that! She tries all these samples bimples she gets from Nordstrom's, and now you know what!?! Her lips are as black as night!"

So, although we laugh when get advice like this, we do take some of it to heart. I mean, they do have a point. Testing out so many products can have some negatives effects! I do have an occasional freak out now and then. I even have weird dreams about my skin! A few weeks ago I had this dream that I applied a mud mask and that all these worms started to crawl out of it. Ahhhhhh! Ughhhhh! Ewwwww! I feel like vomiting every time I think about it. Apparently S had a similar dream when she was younger. What does it mean!?! Probably means I should be more cautious about what I put on my skin. Who wants to look like Aunty Gulabi? Not me!

Lately, I've been on the lookout for natural beauty products. You see them everywhere these days. They are sold in most drugstores and grocery stores at very reasonable prices! A beauty line that I have had my eye on for last few weeks is the Yes To Carrots beauty line! What's great about the Yes to Carrots line is that all the products are paraben free! Various products within the line contain ingredients such as Dead Sea mud and minerals, along with organic fruits and veggies, jam packed with Beta-Carotene, a natural form of Vitamin A.

I recently tried out the C Me Smile Lip Butter. Yes, you heard it... Butta!!! If you know me you know I love Butta, and any beauty products with the name butter in it, I have to try! He he! The fabulous lip balms bear the USDA Organic seal (from the US Department of Agriculture). Yeaaah! It contains all these fabulous good for you ingredients too!

Organic Carrot, Orange, Pumpkin, and Melon Extracts - Provides superior antioxidant protection. How delicious!
Coconut Oil - We Indians have been using Coconut oil on our skin and hair for ages! The coconut oil in the balm helps the formula penetrate deep into your lips.
Olive Fruit Oil - Moisturizer for your lips!
Jojoba Seed and Sunflower Oils - To nourish, condition, and protect!
Vitamin E - Antioxidant protection against environmental exposure!
Shea Butter - Soothes and hydrates dry, cracked lips. Mmmm butta.

I've been using the lip butters for about a week and a half and can't get enough of them! They really sooth my dry lips. The texture of the balm is very smooth and it glides right on! It comes in flavors like Berry, Carrot, Citrus, Melon and Mint! So far, I have tried the Berry and Mint. The smell is light and not overpowering. I do wish they tasted like their smell, but they don't. : (

The best part about this gloss is the price. You can get the C Me Smile Lip Butters for $3.69 and Walgreen's! Amazing! Get one for your bag, one for your bathroom, one for your night stand, one for your car, one for your dog (ha ha! JK).

I say give your lips a little break every now and then. A healthy nourishing break. This balm is free of parabens, petroleum and phthalates. Mamma would approve! Yeaaah!

Soft healthy lips coming your way!
Hugs,
G

Kama Rosewater

2011-02-13T10:30:00.005-05:00

On a trip to Marrakech, I went to a very luxurious (probably extremely inauthentic) hammam. We walked into a dark and balmy chamber underground, the path lit with candles. Everything was sultry, and carefully rustic-- from the warm water fountain where the woman bathed us with orange blossom water (heaven) to the slab of rock we had to lie on for the gommage treatment. My favorite part was being washed with rosewater during the facial portion of our treatment. Never have I felt more refreshed after a spa treatment than I did on that day. Memories.
I bought the gommage and the rosewater. I treasured that bottle, and it sat in my fridge for 3 years because I would save the precious liquid as an at-home treat when I was feeling especially wretched. Then one day it was gone. I still don't know who the responsible party is for throwing away my precious blue bottle from Morocco, but they're finally off the hook. I found something even better: Kama Ayurvedic Rosewater from their Les Jardins d'Inde.
Here's where advertising is key: I was reading a magazine on a plane ride between Delhi and Bombay, and I saw this really nice photo of a brown bottle, and it said "Exclusive, not available anywhere except...". Um hello, had to have it! Darnit they knew their audience. Luckily I didn't have to go too far because it's available at the hair salon in The Oberoi Hotel here in Delhi (also it's available in the States, just check out their website).
Bought it and couldn't wait to use it. Packaging is excellent considering this is a product made here in India. And inside, with the first spritz I was already in love with the smell! It's just the right kind of rose, a steady, fresh floral, with a very translucent fragrance. And best part? Ingredient: 100% pure rosewater.
It's not a perfume, it's a toner for your face because rosewater naturally balances the pH levels of your skin. I am not 100% sold on all-natural things, but this one works. I've had the worst skin since moving to Delhi- chapped cheeks and nose, acne- I look positively ruddy and old (I've had no time, and I am NOT a natural beauty). In one week, my skin is just softer! Yay.
I was going to surprise G with bottles of this stuff because she's sold on the indulgent romance of rosewater too, but I think customs is going to stop me when they see all the stuff I've been collecting for her and R...
Packaging: A, for Amazing. Performance: A for Awesome. Price:A for Are you kidding me, this miracle fluid made of pure roses is only about $15? (Sorry might be more in the States!)
Love.
Hope Everything Is Coming Up Roses Kisses!
S.

New York to New Delhi

2011-01-09T13:28:00.007-05:00

It's been too long. I've temporarily found myself based out of Delhi for 6 months, and now The Gloss Box Girls can without a doubt promise you we are the absolute authority for South Asian beauty because... I, S. am living the Indian life everyday.
Well, a version of the Indian life- the type where I have access to spas and beauty products.
But let me tell you, it wasn't easy to move to a new city and have to 'set myself up'- ie find a place to get the waxing, the nails and the (affordable) blowouts.
I'll keep you posted on my adventures in hair removal, facials, waxing, local products, the search for foreign mascara and how I highly recommend head massages as the ultimate form of relaxation.
Stay tuned for my post on the Ayurvedic and organic beauty sensation sweeping the nation Forest Essentials, a review of salons and spas in Delhi, including Asian Roots, Affinity, Kaya Skin Clinic, and the Spa at the Oberoi. Plus, the shocking availability of Chanel and MAC makeup and Kerastase shampoo have made my beauty life a lot simpler than when I used to visit in the 90s.
The passage to India isn't what it used to be, with Botox at every corner, and the popularity of laser hair removal (PS, I'm thinking about going under to get my legs done.) I am going to tell you all the beauty secrets of the women in Delhi (they are gorgeous and all have perfect hair- please note the widespread popularity of getting your hair blown out every few days!)- plus bring you genuine beauty finds.
MAC just launched their Bollywood collection, BodyShop is open, as is L'Occittaine- it's a changing landscape here in India.
Stay tuned while G holds it down in New York, and I bring you the latest from New Delhi.

We've come a long way from the days of Vicco Turmeric Ayurvedic Cream (nahi cosmetic!)
S.

Smooth Away Hair Remover

2010-12-13T07:44:00.000-05:00

Hair removal always puts me in an off mood. I am South Asian, and unfortunately the happiness I feel after a waxing appointment is short lasted. Almost two and a half days later the hair starts to creep back. That sneaky dark south Asian hair. Always there, always there... always creep creep creepin back. Well at least for now! I WILL somehow, someday get the hairs I don't want removed, and removed for good! Oh you'll see my pretty!

My hair removal process is always an extreme emergency! Is it that way for you too? Or am I just some big spaz? Before I know it, my hair is back and I need to get it removed pronto! For some reason though it I always needs to be removed on a day of some huge event, which unfortunately happens to fall on a day when I have to work late! Almost every few weeks I frantically call my waxing salon, Boom Boom Brow Bar in the West Village, pleading with Malynda or Mel to please please please stay open for me just for a few more minutes! They really are the best! I arrive out of breath, usually trip over something, cussing and complaining about everything. Malynda looks at me and says, "What is going on Lady! Are you going on a last minute trip or something?" I wish! No, it's just me, spastic me G!

So, the other day, I was in another state of massive hair removal emergency. The only problem was that I am on a major budget after some recent travels and unexpected bumps. I decided to go to CVS and see what the store had to offer in terms of hair removal. I frantically ran down all the aisle ways! Why is the hair removal section so bloody hard to spot?!?! Really, they need a big sign in front of it! It is a really important part of the store! Well, at least for me! I think I must have ran down the aisle about 5 times, till a nice lady working there looked at me, probably feeling quite bad for me, and pointed out that it was right in front of me...

I've tried almost all the hair removal products available at CVS. I've tried the wax pots, the wax strips, the creams, the gels, the foams. The one thing I had yet to try was the hair buffer. I once was walking through a street fair in the West Village, and saw a man giving one of those old fashioned sales pitches about this Smooth Away hair removal kit. This is what I think he said... mind you I have a pretty awful memory, but here goes, "Step right up young ladies. Do you have hair you don't want? You have hair in places you never expected? Do you hate all those uncomfortable messy hair removal products out there? Do you wish there was something easier, less expensive, and less messy?" I think to myself... Yes! Speak to me Mr! What have you got there old chap? He asked for a volunteer. And to the embarrassment of my friends, I yelled me me ME! He pulled out a pink pad with a what looked to be a buffer or sorts on the other side. He applied the buffer side to my arm in a quick circular motion, 4 times clockwise and then 4 time counter clock wise. I looked at the section of my arm he applied the pad and the hair was gone! My skin felt baby soft and the hair was gone. I really couldn't believe it! Skeptic me though assumed that he probably was using the only good one, and that the rest he had in boxes were the crap ones. I told him thanks but no thanks and grabbed my friends and headed for some froyo.

Anywayz, around a year and a half later, I'm at CVS, and I think, what the hell. I'm going to buy the Smooth Away hair remover! It's only $9.99. Yeah!!! I race home! You'd think I had a bag of chocolate covered canolli's the way I raced home! That is just the way I am when I have a new beauty experiment pending! I got home and ripped open the boxes. The pack contains a large pad for larger areas like your legs and arms and a smaller pad for smaller areas like your underarms and face. The pad also has a convenient loop on the back so that you have a better grip. So, I tried it, and yes... it kinda works. I have only tried it on my arms, which I get waxed when I remember, and my underarms, which I get waxed regularly. If you are right handed it is much easier to remove the hair off your left arm. The circular hand motion is really hard to achieve on your right arm. The box specifically says to move in a clockwise and counter clockwise circular motion, ensuring that you don't move up and down or left to right. I will say that it removed some of the hair, but when I looked under a brighter light of lot of the hairs still remained. It also leaves a chalky kind of residue behind, because it an exfoliator of sorts. The pad is covered with super fine micro crystals which are supposed to buff away the hair on your arms. The skin on my arms did feel quite soft immediately afterwards. I tried it on my underarms, but it absolutely did not work. My underarm hair is quite course and the pad would just have left me with a rash. It really only works on very fine hair, which I really don't have. The box says you can use it on your face, but I DO NOT recommend that at all! Almost ten minutes after buffing my arms they began to burn and itch uncomfortably. It was such an icky feeling! Mind you I do have extra dry skin and it is the winter, but the after effects are so uncomfortable that I really don't want to use Smooth Away again. Well, I might try it again, when my arms are not so dry, which is rarely ever. This product would work better for those of you who have finer hair and normal or oilyish skin. Otherwise if you are like me, you will just be left irritated, with a bunch of random patches of hair on your arms, and an uncomfortable burning itching sensation afterwards... Ouch!

My quest for a better hair removal product continues...

Hugs,

P.S. Check out the commercial. Tee hee! Notice, there are no South Asians in it, which means it is not meant for my type of hair.

My favorite new foundation!

2010-12-10T16:14:00.000-05:00

I don’t wear a lot of makeup, but when I do, I want my face to pop! I love that polished fresh face look. I had my makeup done a few weeks ago at Michael Angelo’s Wonderland Beauty Parlor, by a pretty girl named Karina, who also happens to do Catherine Malandrino’s makeup! Karina introduced me to the most amazing makeup line - Dianne Brill Cosmetics. Dianne Brill is a past model, who started the Dianne Brill beauty line a few years ago. The makeup contains high quality ingredients that apply smoothly and flawlessly. The packaging is absolutely scrumptious! I throw away most beauty packing, but I kept the pretty DB boxes!

My favorite products in the Dianne Brill cosmetic collection are the Fresh Water Pearl Foundation and the Fresh Water Pearl Concealer. I prefer foundations and concealers that apply like a moisturizer. The foundation is so soft and creamy. It gives you that flawless look without looking like you are wearing tons of Foundation. It comes with a foundation precision brush that allows you to apply the foundation more easily. I have never applied my foundation with a brush. It makes such a difference! This makeup is so light, yet it provides such amazing coverage. Another great thing about the foundation is that since it doesn’t cake up, you can apply it as much as you want. In the past if I wore makeup in the morning I would wash my face after work and reapply the makeup, so it would look fresh. This makeup is so creamy and light, that you can apply the foundation later on in the day without your looking cakey or like you are wearing too much makeup. The under eye concealer does a fabulous job of covering up those ugly dark circles. I don’t leave the house without dabbing it under my eyes. It gives your eyes a healthy fresh look.

Now about that glow… that look everyone is searching for these days! Both products contain crushed fresh water pearls that make your skin pop. I have received so many compliments lately, when I wear Dianne Brill makeup. My skin glows! I have never been so pleased with a foundation.

I have been using Dianne Brill makeup for about four weeks now. These products are a bit on the pricey side. The foundation retails for around $50 and the concealer retails for around $30. The line is relatively new and sold in a few retail locations in the US. If you want to invest in high quality makeup that is good for your skin and gives you that flawless look, try the Dianne Brill makeup. If you live in NY try the products out at Michael Angelo’s Wonderland Beauty Parlor!

Enjoy your pearls ladies!

Hugs,
G

Kerasase Nutritive Bain Oleo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo and Kerastase Masque Oleo-Relax

2010-11-20T13:48:00.000-05:00

I am obsessed with shiny smooth hair! I’m always on the lookout for a hair care system that will give me the ultimate shine. Guess what? I found one! My hair just shine, shine, shines!!! I’ve been using the Kerasase Nutritive Bain Oleo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo and Kerastase Masque Oleo-Relax for the past few months and love them! Both products are designed for Dry and Rebellious Hair like mine. I have never had such shiny sleek hair. I get compliments all the time!

The Oleo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo is fabulous for my long hair. Most shampoos tangle, mangle and dry up my hair while I am in the shower. My hair literally screams for conditioner! This gentle shampoo detangles and smoothes my hair in the shower, making it so easy to apply the hair Masque! The Masque is the most fabulous conditioner I have ever used. It smells and feels so luxurious. It applies to my hair beautifully. I leave the masque on for about 6 – 10 minutes. I like to place a shower cap over my hair after I have applied the masque so that I can ensure that the fancy product stays on my hair and does not get washed away. In the mean time you can apply a fabulous scrub like the Sabon Scrub to exfoliate your body. I just bought some for E for her b-day. Can’t wait to hear what she thinks! It’s my fav scrub! So, after applying my favorite scrub, I thoroughly wash the masque out of my hair. You will feel the difference immediately! Your hair will feel so smooth and luxurious while you are in the shower.

After lightly drying my hair with a towel (tip: don’t dry your hair vigorously with your shower. Gently squeeze out the water with your towel and pat it dry. You’ll have less breakage and your hair will feel softer and smoother) I like to apply a few pumps of my favorite serum – Kerastase Oleo Relax Serum. This is the ultimate finishing product for my hair. This serum with smooth, soften and shine up your hair! Love it! Check out my post! Using all these products in conjunction does wonders for my hair! Because my hair is so dry, I only wash it twice a week. My hair stays silky, shiny and frizz free for days.

Both products are on the pricey side. The shampoo retails for around $30 and the Masque for around $50. Ouch! I know… it’s expensive. Using these products is quite a treat for me! I don’t know what I will do when they both run out. It makes me sad to even think about it. Btw… I use a lot of conditioner and I know a lot of you do too. You seriously need two tubs of the conditioner and one shampoo. There just isn’t enough conditioner in one tub…

For those of you who are recessionistas like me, another one of my fav conditioning masks is the Neutrogena Triple Moisture Hair Mask. It retails for around 5 dollars and does wonders for my hair. Check out my review!

Shine on girl!

Hugs,
G

Old Products Can Be Bad Products.

2010-10-29T09:51:00.006-04:00

I know people who love to revel in the fact that, 'Oh haha I never wear makeup. I've had the same mascara for 3 years!" You dirty girl! Stop trying to act like you're naturally beautiful cuz you're NOT and secondly, don't go about bragging about using a petri dish o' bacteria on your eyes.

Last week while at my cousin's wedding, I put on my YSL undereye illuminator and immediately was hit with a ewwww who smells? OMG it was me! Well actually my makeup, which had gone 'off' and smelled like that towel from the locker room which you stuffed in the back and forgot to take home and now it's just too late and it cannot be salvaged so you just have to discreetly dispose of it while your chatty next-to-your-locker mate is distracted. You know the smell. Here's a little guide to help you avoid the scary "what is that SMELL" scenario. Oh and to keep you safe from scary diseases and bacteria.

This information comes to you from The Beauty Brains:

1. Does it fail the See and Sniff test?

Most cosmetics are designed to last a couple of years. A shampoo or conditioner will probably still be fine. But before you use an old product, squeeze a little bit out and look at it and sniff it. Does it still smell okay? Maybe the fragrance just faded a bit. But if any of the ingredients have gone rancid or if there’s microbial growth, you’ll smell an off odor. Also look for junk growing in the product like mold or fungus (SHIVERS!!!). If you see or smell anything funky, don’t use it! Likewise, if the product changed consistency and has become way too thick or way too thin, that’s a signal that something changed. And not for the better!

2. Is it past the expiration date?

Ok, this one’s tricky because most products don’t HAVE an expiration date. Over The Counter Drug products do, but most regular cosmetics won’t.

If you don’t see an expiration date but you do see another string of numeric or alphanumeric code on the bottle, it’s probably the lot code. The lot code tells the company when (and even where) the product was made. It’s meant to help the company track the product so if you call them, they can tell you when the product was made and they should be able to recommend how long you can keep it before it expires.

By the way, in Europe, a new law requires a PAO (Period After Opening symbol) on the package. It looks like a little jar with a number on it and it tells you how many months the product is good for after you first start using it. You’ll also see this symbol on some US products. (ie. 7M means 7months)

3. Was it stored improperly?

Some products are sensitive to heat, cold, and light. For example, enzymes. Enzymes are notoriously unstable at high temperatures. Products like this can easily go bad from heat exposure. On the other hand, emulsion products, like skin lotions, can crystallize, thicken, or turn to mush if they’re frozen. There`s no way to know what happened to a product BEFORE you bought it, but you can take care to store it properly once you get it home. Don’t leave products in the trunk of your car on a hot day or a cold day.

Then of course there’s the condition of the package. Was it stored in a tightly sealed opaque bottle? Then there’s less chance that light or air could have caused any problems. But if the lid is loose and it’s in a clear glass bottle that sat in the window for 3 months, forget it!

4. Does it contain any “special” ingredients that are fragile?

If it’s a regular product, like a shampoo, you probably don’t have much to worry about. But some active ingredients are a bit finicky, and those products can expire much sooner. Products like sunscreens are much more delicate.

Service-y. Thanks Beauty Brains!

Kisses,

S.

Murad Active Radiance Serum: Dew It

2010-10-19T22:12:00.001-04:00

Ahh cheesy headlines.

Listen up: To all the people I love, I have to share a product that works amazingly- Murad's Vitamin Active Radiance Serum, $89.

In 3 weeks, I see a difference in my dark spots, and an overall even-ing of my skin tone. Murad's Vitamin Active Radiance Serum is vitamin C based, and it is safe for the most sensitive skin tones. I know this, because... well I have the most irritable skin, and I've seen nothing but improvements.

A thin layer morning and night, a minute to dry, pleasant smell and a serum that works... DEFINITELY worth the $89.

I am so shocked that it works.

This is perfect for you if you have dark spots from acne, and like no-fuss, non-greasy skin treatments. I wear it at night, and during the day under my makeup. I don't know what else to say about something that has worked so well.

I am happy!
Kisses
S.

Scalding hot showers lead to drier skin

2010-10-15T09:05:00.002-04:00

I was a competitive swimmer from age the age of 5 till I was 17. In most of my pictures during this time period, my hair was this icky shade of brown. The chlorine seriously damaged my hair and skin, and every year I would have to get a serious hair cut to get rid of all the damage.

So, I would get out of swim practice around 7PM, and the most wonderful thing to do afterwards, was take a long HOT shower. I remember there was this girl on my team, that would turn the heat up so high that here skin would turn bright red. So we were all around 9 years old... you know the time in your life when everyone is tattling on everyone! We would run to the ladies room attendant and frantically tell the woman how bright red this girls skin was, while the girl happily continued showering. The ladies room attendant gave all of us 9 year olds a great piece of advice. Why didn't I just listen to her!!! She said that we were all destroying our already Chlorine ravaged skin by taking such long hot showers. She was right!!!

So, if you live in New York, you know it is starting to get cold! The first thing you want to do after a hard day of work is take a long hot shower. Don't do it! I mean, take a shower, but not a scalding hot one. If your skin is as dry as mine during the fall / winter, the hot water will make it even worse. You know what I am talking about... your hands become so dry they feel like a dish sponge... your face feels so dry that it might crack... your feet look like prunes... what are you doing!!! Stop it now! Take a luke warm shower. Your skin will thank you! The hot water breaks down your skins natural defenses, making it even more rough and dry!

After getting out of the shower pat your skin lightly with a towel and immediately apply your moisturizer. On especially dry days I like to apply Vaseline Gel Body Oil. Sometimes I like to mix it with a moisturizer like the Aveeno Advanced Care Moisturizin Cream. Your skin will feel so soft and moisturized!

Be easy on your skin the upcoming months. It's begging for relief!

xo
G

Kerastase Oleo Relax Serum: My Dream Serum!!!

2010-10-13T20:57:00.000-04:00

I have had very dry hair for most of my life. If I don’t condition it properly it ends up looking like a birds nest… unruly, large and frizzy. It’s awful! To keep it smooth and manageable, I have to use serums on a regular basis. I am a huge fan of Neutrogena’s Triple Moisture healing shine serum. It retails around $6! It keeps my hair looking soft, straight and shiny. It’s affordable and really works! Check out my post!

I recently discovered another fantastic serum on my last visit to the hair dresser. What I love about getting my hair cut is that the stylist always uses Kerastase products. What a treat! Kerastase makes the most luxurious array of hair care products. My hair always looks, feels and smells fantastic! And what a treat it is considering the price tag! Products range from around $25 - $55!!! That is expensive! If you’ve got dry, rebellious hair like mine… and a little extra cash lying around, I highly recommend the Kerastase Oleo-Relax Serum. This serum is fantastic. The great thing about it is that it provides long lasting frizz protection! You hair looks fantastic the entire day!

After getting out of the shower and towel drying my hair, I Iike to add about 3 pumps of the serum to my hair. I apply the serum to the mid length and ends of my hair. The serum is so light and silky, it feels like silk in my fingers. It doesn’t leave your hair feeling greasy or oily. It smells so delicious too! I have received compliments about how good my hair smells!

This is definitely a luxurious treat! It retails for around $34. I find the Neutrogena’s Triple Moisture healing shine serum and the Kerastase Oleo-Relax Serum to be quite similar in their results. The only differences I see are that the Kerastase Oleo-Relax Serum leaves my hair smoother longer and I prefer the smell. It is so intoxicating! Don’t get me wrong, the Neutrogena serum smells great, but the Oleo-Relax serum scent is stronger and lingers longer.

Enjoy your new luxurious locks!

Hugs,
G

P.S. My hair gets really dry during the winter. This serum is perfect hydrator for brittle winter hair!

Clinique High Definition Lashes Brush Then Comb Mascara

2010-05-27T14:26:00.004-04:00

If I had the honor of naming this mascara mascara, I would call it Weapon of Mass Seduction. Because this is exactly what this mascara does for me. This has become one of my all time favorites.

I am simply over the moon with Clinique's High Definition Lashes Brush Then Comb Mascara, $14. In 1 minute, I can transform my average lashes into absolutely fat, luscious, voluptuous weapons of mass seduction.

The brush (as you can see in the photo) has a regular old school mascara brush, which paints the right amount of product on your lashes. Flip it over, and the comb then deposits a little more product, while thickening and defining (but not separating into little spider legs). Sweep it from the base to the middle of your lashes et voila! Out the door, creating little flutters of wind along the way.

I actually find this mascara is so powerful, that I can forego eyeliner on days when I wear this. The comb gets straight to the base of my lashes and creates an 'eyeliner' effect. I can even smear a little on the bottom to get a fully-rimmed look.

This works for long, sparse lashes and short lashes. Asian lashes will also fare well. If you have severely curled lashes (like people with extremely curly or kinky hair tend to have)- I think this will do amazing things for your lashes too!

The one drawback is that I wore this on a delayed flight, and I did find there was a little crumbling from the mascara (ie black flecks on my cheeks). And when it comes off in the wash, it seems to come off in chunks rather than as a liquid coating. Le sigh. The effect is kind of amazing and it doesn't 'smear' off which is why it's still a 4/5 in my books. Oh and for $14? AMAZING.

Ready, set- Go get it!

Kisses!

Clinique High Lengths Mascara

2010-05-19T13:05:00.002-04:00

When I saw the brush to Clinique's High Lengths mascara, I was like, "augh another gimmicky mascara." I am so sick of the vibrating, caterpillar-y, round medieval weaponry-shaped mascara brushes. Give me a good old traditional mascara wand and I'll be happy. Ok this time I was wrong!

I actually reached mascara bliss with a weird, slightly curved, "toothy" brush from Clinique. Amazing. some genius made a wand perfectly curved to most eyes, with fine teeth that get all the way to the base line. They then filled the tube with really good mascara-- the type that thickens and lengthens without clumping, but has enough body to look good. And all of a sudden, I realized that I might just... explode with joy.

The wand pulls out just the right amount of product, you can paint your 'base' lashes and draw it all the way to the ends without 'spider lash'. The precision applicator is so perfect, that you can even coat your bottom lashes without looking freaky. I subbed mascara on the bottom for my traditional eyeliner on the bottom, and I was getting compliments all night.

One caveat: I have naturally up-turned lashes and big eyes. I don't know if this would be my first recommendation for short, downward pointing Asian lashes. This seems like it's the perfect mascara for 'scant' lashes and long lashes because it doesn't do that horrifying lash grouping nonsense. But short short lashes may only marginally benefit.

So, I've been shunning Clinique for years. It was 'my first makeup' and that's how I've always viewed it: Something you buy when you're 11.

Stop. Let's reassess. For $14, this is only a touch more expensive than a drugstore brand, and gives FAR better results. I couldn't be happier-- it's worth the price, and it's a good product. Also -- one last thing-- it comes off easily with makeup remover and is good for sensitive eyes.

Living the High Life!

Kisses,

The Uniform Project 1 Dress 365 Days

2010-05-18T19:00:00.003-04:00

So in LOVE with The Uniform Project! Sheena Matheiken decided to wear the same, short-sleeved black tunic dress for 365 days. In doing so, she hoped to accomplish a few things, like raising money for the Akanksha Foundation- a nonprofit that helps send slum children in India to school (if you watch the video, you'll see how much money she raised. Ok fine I'll tell you this: she managed to send 233 children to school for a year!). She also showed how clothing can be sustainable dressed up and eco-friendly.

With her dedicated, fun and fashionable approach, Sheena is such an inspiration. I have to admit, I actually found myself tearing up because I loved watching her 'do good' while being so adorable.

Uniform Project Picture Book from The Uniform Project on Vimeo.

Kate Sommerville 'Exfolikate Body' Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

2010-05-15T16:39:00.004-04:00

Subheading, "When luxury is confused with Stupidity."

OMG- I cannot believe that the product developers behind this exfoliators think it's OK to charge $65 for something so REGULAR.

This is a REGULAR exfoliator. In the 5oz tube, there are maybe 6-8 uses for my body. For $65 friggin dollars. I'm not cheap, but I'm not dumb either and there's no way I am going to endorse this product.

The bevy of ingredients from papaya and pumpkin enzymes and caffeine are supposed to leave your skin softer (than other exfoliants? Because it's not!). FAIL. Not that I recommend St. Ives Apricot Scrub for the face, but I DO recommend it as an affordable body scrub (way too harsh for the delicate skin on our faces). My skin is not any better than when I use less expensive drugstore brands.

The smell is nice, and the one positive thing about this product is that it doesn't leave that greasy grimy residue in the tub after use. But it's not $65 nice.

I still can't believe how much product I need. Seriously, I've been rationing this stuff because it's like liquid caviar or something-- each use is costing me about $9. I need a large strawberry-sized squeeze for EACH leg (+feet) and another 2 for the rest of me. I'm larger than the average bear, but not to the point where I need to shop for special sizes, if you know what I mean.

No more words wasted on how this is not the one to use when you want to get your exfoliation on. Get an exfoliating mitt and almost any drugstore body exfoliator and you'll be better off. TRUST. You don't have to get the oily stuff, but almost anything else will work almost as well for a lot less dinero.

Save your money, honey!

Thrifty Kisses,

Instyler

2010-05-10T14:13:00.003-04:00

How do I put this delicately...

How about I'll just be direct. Don't buy the Instyler.

There I said it. Maybe, like me, you are hypnotically drawn to infomercials. Maybe, like me, you secretly believe it's all crap, but need to try it out for yourself to verify that most things being sold on tv are indeed and indubitably crap.

Well if you're like me, then you must have one of these dust collectors.

But it costs anywhere frm $79- $99! That's a lot for a really really low quality product. See, people out there who want to steal from you think painting something silver when it's really cheap plastic makes things seem sturdier and more expensive. I shake my fist at you, Instyler!

So let's get to the functionality of it all, shall we? The Instyler is basically a two-pronged clamping iron. One side is a "rotating barrel" (think curling iron) and the other is a bristled brush attached. Put your hair between the hot, rotating barrel and the bristled side, et, voila! Your hair will be polished to a healthy shine, straight and healthy. Conceptually-speaking.

The thing is, it worked, to a degree. My hair is more or less straight/properly done, it looks like I blew it out. But it took me 45 minutes. Unacceptable! It's really a slow, tedious, LOUD, process. There are mixed reviews out there on the interwebs about the efficacy of this product. My authority only lies in my personal appearance, my successful recommendations and my ability to be prudent with my cash. Having laid that on the line, I am telling you, with no ulterior motivations, this is a waste of time and and money. Even though it will "do" your hair, it's just not professional or effective enough.

I am very skilled with the blowdryer, and usually spend about 8 minutes to blow out my hair (which is long and thick, knock-on-wood). This device is basically (very slowly) meant to recreate the whole blow-dry with one hand, twirl your brush in the other hand daily hair situation. But. It's. So. SLOW. And annoying, and really unnecessary for me in my life. And it's such a terribly poor quality product.

I tried it on myself (I have manageable hair)-- waited until my hair was damp/dry (the perfect way to get good hair) and I felt it was too tedious. I tried it on my friend who has thick thick wavy Indian hair (I did this a few weeks ago. We would still have been sitting here at the rate of output for this device). I kept going over certain sections over and over in order to smooth them out on my own hair and on her hair. Frustrating! I believe the problems lies in the gap between the barrel of the iron and the brush bristles themselves.

I am not a fan of super straight flat-ironed hair-- I prefer softer waves. This device, in theory, would have been great, but in practice makes too much noise, works too slow and is not for me.

Bottom line: Don't buy it! Get yourself like a professional blow dryer and big barreled brush. If you want straight, spend the hundred bucks on a good quality flat iron and buy good products to help protect your hair. Maybe this would be ok to take with you on a vacation, where a blow dryer would short out a building? There's a use for it in case you already bought it.

You've been warned.

Kisses.

The Gloss Box Totally Beautiful Girl: Marisa Renee Lee

2010-05-03T19:30:00.015-04:00

“Fun and philanthropy are not mutually exclusive!” announces Marisa Renee Lee, The Gloss Box's Totally Beautiful Girl— and founder of The Pink Agenda, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer care and research among young professionals.

Marisa started The Pink Agenda as a reaction to the diagnosis of her mother with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, following a nine year battle with Multiple Scelrosis. She spent the time just before she was to graduate from college managing her mother’s health situation – researching countless new medications, cancer trials, and physicians. Her light bulb moment occurred while watching an episode of Grey’s Anatomy.

“It was the episode in which George's father is battling both cancer and a serious heart condition. When they opened up his chest to operate on his heart, they discovered that the cancer had metastasized to most of his major organs. Instead of a healthy pinkish-red hue, all of his organs were covered in this black nastiness. I felt like cancer was eating him alive, and it was.

I immediately made the connection that what I was seeing on TV could just as easily have been the body of my own mother, and that was just unacceptable to me. I proceeded to have a mini-breakdown and woke up the next day having decided that I would throw a party to raise money for beast cancer research and awareness of the disease, and what is now known as The Pink Agenda was born just a few weeks later.”

The accidental beginnings of The Pink Agenda became her lifeline while she was processing her grief as her mother ultimately succumbed to the disease. Marisa’s commitment to her mother inspired her to do something to make difference in the lives of those who were currently confronting—or would eventually face a similar diagnosis

With the help of her awesome friends and co-workers, Marisa was able to get people on board with her agenda, and now throws fun star-studded events that help raise money to eradicate this disease—while having a great time. Her busy schedule doesn’t ever let up, because she also works full time in the world of finance. Her advice for busy women: engage yourself in a cause you feel strongly about, so nothing can discourage you from the hiccups along the way.

With persistence and passion, The Pink Agenda has had the opportunity to raise money in the Hamptons over cocktails, and party with the Kardashians. Coming up is The Pink Agenda’s Annual Spring Gala, being held in Manhattan on Thursday, May 20^th at The Box (Click here to get tickets and learn more ...S & G will be there!).

“Endeavor everyday to have fun while helping out.”

We had to get Marisa’s beauty secrets, because her skin, hair, smile and style are all so covetable (as you can see, she is VERY beautiful, inside and out!). So we had to ask her the pressing questions…

TGB: You go on vacation and you realize you forgot your makeup kit. What is the first thing you run out and buy? What is the brand you would search for?

MRL: The first thing I actually do is freak out for a few minutes. Once I am done freaking out, assuming that my moisturizer and favorite Chanel mini fragrances were in a different bag, the first thing I go for is foundation. I think flawless skin, or at least the appearance of flawless skin, is key. I usually go with MAC as I have found they have the best color options for darker skin tones.

TGB: Any embarrassing makeup flubs or embarrassing experiences?

In my house in addition to dance, you had to pick a sport and as a kid I grew up playing basketball. I was a pretty dedicated center and power forward even though I was twelve and totally self-conscious, I used to wear make-up especially for well-attended weekend games. My dad was one of our coaches and after a particularly painful loss; he totally called me out on spending more time on my face than my jump shot. I of course denied the whole thing and continued to wear make-up to our games. (S’s note: THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO ME! Except it was my coach who was badly in need of some mascara herself and at 5’10 in the 6^th grade, I was obviously a center.)

TGB: My first beauty purchase was…

MRL: My first beauty purchase (in my mind) was probably actually purchased by my mother as I was only six, but it is definitely one of my favorites! I had this amazing Tinkerbell nail polish that came in two shades-both had sparkles (S’s note: ME TOO! Again!). The stuff was particularly magical because it peeled off! I was positively fascinated and used to sit in the back of the bus on the way home from school showing other kids how it worked. I thought it was the most amazing thing ever!
S’s note: I am so excited because Tinkerbell peel-off nail polish from JCPenny was one of my first, and all time most thrilling makeup purchases too! Except I would just paint my nails in order to peel them and then throw the remnants all over the carpet and get in lots and lots of trouble for it…

TGB: What women inspire you? Who has inspired you in terms of your style and your beauty routine?

I have always been a huge fan of Jackie O. I feel that her style personifies Coco Chanel’s maxim that “a girl should always be two things: classy and fabulous.” I love her combination of simple and chic.

After Jackie, I would probably choose my mother. She definitely was not the MOST stylish woman I’ve ever seen, but she chose her wardrobe carefully and believed making a good first impression is one of the most important things in life. She always had impeccably tweezed eyebrows, perfect hair, and professionally manicured nails. She was getting mani-pedis at home up until a few weeks before her passing. She really believed in always looking good.

TGB: What is the hardest thing for you to find/what would be your dream beauty product?

My dream product would probably be some form of under eye concealer or eye brightener. I have two full-time jobs and therefore do not sleep as much as I should, so I need something that will make me look less tired than I actually am. Exhaustion is so unbecoming. S & G agree! Light reflectors are always a good alternative when you don't want to glop on mounds of concealer, like Smashbox's PhotoOp.

S & G are so inspired and uplifted by Marisa’s spirit and story, she is one of those women that radiates with the glow that only Totally Beautiful Girls have. We can’t wait to do our all to support The Pink Agenda! If you want more information, click on the link to learn about The Pink Agenda. Maybe we’ll even see you at the Gala!

http://www.thepinkagenda.org/

Tarte Natural Lip Stain with Lipsurgence Technology

2010-05-03T11:15:00.004-04:00

So misleading a name for a really nice product.

First of all, this is not a LIP STAIN, as much as it's a lip gloss/chapstick.

The product claims that Tarte Natural Lip Stain with Lipsurgence Technology will increase your lip moisture by 6000%. WHAT? A #1 How does one gauge a 6000% increase in lip moisture and B #2 I would imagine if my lips were 6000% more moisturized they would look weirdly full or ultra wet and drippy. It's such a cartoonish claim, since I don't feel 6000% more moisturized...

Criticisms aside, I really like this product, because I use it as a chapstick and lip gloss. When I went to Sephora, they only had 1 color in stock, Enchanted (the 2nd one from the right in the photo above), which is a light pastel pink. Since I have pink undertones and medium toasty Indian skin, this color could have been a major Crayola Carnation-level disaster. Luckily the color on me works-- it really is a Spring Pink. When my SuperBFF R tried it on, it looked absolutely neutral on her (she of the more toasted Indian skin tone). Assess your own lip color before you make a color choice. My lips are naturally pink, so this makes them look REALLY pink-- but the color is so sheer that I think it will only tint your natural lip color. R and I agreed that we liked the feeling of this product, but we applied twice during a 4 hour cocktail hour because it really comes off rather fast. I wear it for comfort over color-- meaning I like the moisturized feeling over the way I 'look.'

The tube itself comes in a thick twist- up stick (yay! sharpeners NOT required), which is completely pretty and charming. In case you're looking for it in the store, the box is so counterintuitive to the product inside. It's a total packaging misstep. The box is the Tarte signature platinum purple, but I guess they were trying to play up how 'natural' this product is and went with really bizarre drugstore level design on the box (think little icons of oranges and leaves...?) which prominently states that this increases lip moisture by 6K%.

This stick mainly consists of natural oils and smells like a lovely natural peppermint (which is totally tolerable when applied under the nose). It comes RIGHT off if you sip on a glass, and don't apply this right before your sommelier brings over that lovely Bordeaux you've been wanting to try-- because you will announce that the wine has overtones of peppermint and everyone will think you're an idiot.

Anyway-- for $24, I'm not crying over this purchase. I really like it, but it is NOT a lip stain. Think tinted chapstick. SOOOOO Much better than Fresh's Sugar line.

I give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars (which is good!). It's also a safe natural bet for a gift-- Enchanted is for your friends who like pink!!

6000% wetter kisses!

Bliss FatGirlSlim - Firming Cream

2010-04-27T22:46:00.010-04:00

Ladies... we've all got a bit of it, and for those of you who don't... I'm jealous! You know what I'm talking about. Pesky, sneaky, icky... cellulite!!! I started to notice the unsightly bumps in undergrad. I was horrified at the time, but over the years it doesn't bother me as much. I mean, I'm not happy with it, but most women have it and over time get used to it. You can be a skinny mini or slightly overweight and still have cellulite. Most women, unfortunately, are just prone to these unattractive bumps and medical professionals will tell you that there is no miracle cure for cellulite.

There are many products on the market that claim to reduce the look of cellulite. The ads sometimes contain images with dramatic before and after shots. I wonder if these are really the same women because they never show their faces! Recently I decided to try Bliss's FatGirlSlim. The package says - A lean, mean skin firming cream that visibly diminishes dimples with Qusome(R)-encapsulated caffeine. I've heard a lot lately about caffeine in cellulite creams and how it can reduce the look of cellulite. The caffeine in the cream (QuSome - encapsulated caffeine molecules) is supposed to work like a diuretic to slim out the thighs and reduce the look of those annoying dimples.

The consistency of this cream is thick and creamy and applies quite luxuriously. I noticed within a couple of days that my thighs were a lot softer to the touch. After about a week, I noticed that my legs looked a bit more toned and defined. I've been using the cream for about 4 weeks now and honestly I have not seen a reduction in the look of the cellulite. Mind you, I did not have a horrible cellulite problem to begin with, but I have not seen a visible reduction in the look of the bumps at all! My legs look prettier and firmer, but that's about it.

The FatGirlSlim Cream retails for around $29, which is quite pricey. The instructions on the jar suggest you apply the cream twice a day for 20-30 seconds. I am almost out of the cream! I'm not even sure if I am using enough. If I used as much as I would like, I would be going through almost 3 bottles a month! That is around $90!

For those of you who want to improve the look of your thighs, this will do the trick. Your thighs will feel softer and look more toned, which is great for summer, but this is by no means a miracle cure for cellulite. Unfortunately, at the moment, there is no absolute cure for cellulite. The best way to keep your legs looking healthy and toned, is to watch what you eat and keep exercising!

Hugs,

Happy Earth Day!!!

2010-04-22T12:26:00.003-04:00

TheGlossBox girls (S & G) wish you a Happy Earth Day! Check out our reviews of some Natural Beauty Products.

Please take good care of your gorgeous self and our beautiful planet earth. : )

xo,

S & G

Purpose Cleanser. LIKE.

2010-04-20T18:27:00.003-04:00

Facebook changes really mess with my day... now you will no longer be a fan, you will just 'LIKE' us.

Well I 'LIKE' Purpose Cleanser so so so much, it might even be love. For around $6, I've been getting my makeup off and my face soft and cleansed without harsh irritants. As soon as I am done washing, my skin feels fresh, cleansed but also supple. It's the perfect basic cleanser!

For me, it's better than Cetaphil. Scientifically, I can't explain it, but here's my user experience:

I use a medicated cream for acne, and I blamed it for my dry and scaly skin (it's a benzoyl peroxide based cream-- and I'm very sensitive to it.) I was given some Purpose cleanser to try out by a friend who was really concerned about my skin. I said very matter-of-factly that the source of my skin's dryness was my medicated cream. She urged me to go ahead and switch out my Cetaphil for Purpose.

The results are astounding. Even though Purpose cleanser is fragranced (ever-so-pleasantly, might I add)-- my scales disappeared. It was the only thing I changed about my routine. I don't know based on the ingredient deck why this happened, but it did and I am thus converted. Goodbye Cetaphil, I'll only use you in a jam.

Hello, Purpose. You rock.

Stoked Kisses!

Oil of Olay Regenerist SPF 15.

2010-04-20T17:47:00.004-04:00

Sing it: "Aaaaaaaat laaaaaaaaaast..."

And so it ends. My search for a daily moisturizer which is affordable, leaves my skin looking fresh, soft and dewey and gets me compliments (my favorite) has been rewarded.

Oil of Olay's Regenerist Regenerating UV (15) Protection lotion, about $21 meets all my criteria for a face lotion.

My skin is dry, oily in parts, prone to breakouts and I am just coming off of a 8 month nightmare acne ordeal. I use meds which dry out my skin, and I like in NYC which is never good for the complexion on account of all the pollution. This lotion has made everything more calm, manageable and my makeup looks less ashy when I put it on (you know when your skin is dry and your makeup looks a little more white because it grabs on to the dehydrated parts?).

I can wear this under my makeup and it provides the softest finish to my skin-- like an airbrushed look, the likes of which I can only compare to my favorable results with the Creme de La Mer Lotion.

My skin looks more even after having used it for 2 weeks.

I also feel my pores look smaller.

It's affordable. Ladies, the whole point of The Gloss Box is to help people save money on crappy products. Lord knows G and I incur countless expenses, but we pass on our findings to you. $21 for this cream is a STEAL compared to the $198 (before taxes) that I once paid for my Creme de La Mer (I feel ashamed to admit this, but I will try anything for soft-looking skin).

I feel like I look young. I have been using expensive creams, and I feel that my skin looks the most youthful after using this lotion. This is not to say that I believe it "takes away" wrinkles or anything, I just mean I have the glow that young people have. That maybe I once had, but I was too horrified by all my teenage acne to realize.

The one main drawback to this is that the cream is highly fragranced. I have sensitive skin and I have been able to tolerate it rather well, but I do avoid my eyes. On a sidenote I love creams that smell the way this one does because it reminds me of my mommy. But anyway... it would be my only suggestion: fragrance-free next time, Oil of Olay!

If you are out there looking for a good moisturizer with broad spectrum UV protection, this is the one I recommend.

I have to thank an esthetician friend of mine for literally GIVING me this bottle because she felt my skin needed it. She is right, my dry skin needed a some help, and here it is.

Relieved Kisses!

PS. The packaging keeps changing, but it always comes out of a pump. I love you Olay.

Ahava Mineral Botanic Velvet Cream Wash in Hibiscus Fig

2010-04-19T11:17:00.008-04:00

I am a huge fan of Ahava, a company well known for its natural skin care products containing Dead Sea Minerals. I especially love the Velvet Cream Washes because they are so moisturizing and leave the most wonderful lingering scent. Recently, I tried out the Velvet Cream Wash in Hibiscus & Fig, a body wash for those with very dry skin. It smells soooo good! It contains macadamia oil and organic plan extracts which help to create a more velvety foam that feels so decadent. I like to apply this body wash using a good body mitt such as the Sabon Shower Glove with Thumb. A little of this body wash goes a long way, but personally I love to apply it generously to the body mitt to build up a good lather. The scent is so delicious and invigorating, it makes you look forward to showering!

What I really like about this body wash is that it doesn't leave any icky residue behind. My skin feels so clean and fresh and moisturized afterwards. If you have dry skin like mine though, you will still need to apply a moisturizer after getting out of the shower, but you won't feel that annoying icky dry feeling that some body washes make you feel.

The Ahava Mineral Botanic Velvet Cream washes are SLS/SLES free, Paraben-free, not tested on animals, and approved for sensitive skin. The body washes retail for around $21 for a 17 fl. oz. bottle, which is not bad at all! I have also used the Grape and Avocado cream wash for normal to dry skin as well. Check out my review! I love it!

I highly recommend this body wash to all of my friends. Get ready for spring with this sweet smelling and moisturizing cream wash!

Hugs,

Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Moisture with SPF 30 and Helioplex

2010-04-15T10:46:00.006-04:00

In the last couple of years i've started to notice spots on my face. If you are a someone with darker skin you know exactly what I am talking about. Those annoying dark spots that appear about a week or two after a blemish has healed. These spots used to disappear after about a month when I was younger, but they seem to be taking much longer to disappear now! I try to convince myself that other people think they are freckles. I ask my friends, hair stylist, waxing technician... whoever will listen, about my spots. I look at them with a look of wide eyed fear and stress in voice and say, "these spots... ummm... they look more like freckles right?" They always say yes... ; )

About a year ago, I saw a Neutrogena commercial for Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Moisture, featuring Gabrielle Union who has such beautiful, even and clear skin. She talks about how this moisturizer will diminish the look of those annoying little dark spots and overall skin discoloration. I decided to give this moisturizer a try about a month ago. Due to stress and lack of sleep i've been breaking out more and noticing more pesky little dark spots! Honestly, I was so excited to use this moisturizing because I imagined that all my dark spots would disappear... unfortunately they didn't.

The Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Moisture contains:

Vitamin C - Helps to reduce the look of dark spots and even out skin tone
Retino SA - Works continuously to renew the look of skin throughout the day
Helioplex - Provides superior protection against skin aging UVA rays and helps prevent future discoloration

It all sounds great, but I want to see results! After about a month and a half of using this product I have not noticed any lightening of the dark spots on my face. That was the primary reason I decided to use this moisturizer, and it did not deliver. Also, I am not a huge fan of the consistency. It absorbs too quickly into the skin, which some might love, but it doesn't give me enough time to smooth it all over your face and neck. I find that I have to use three pumps of this moisturizer, which is just too much considering it is sold in a 1 FL OZ container.

I will say though, that this product does provide added moisture to my dry skin and has not caused my skin to break out at all. The SPF 30 does not hurt either, as I am huge proponent of never leaving the house without sunscreen. I did have high hopes for this product and am disappointed that there is no visible reduction in look of my dark spots. This product retails for around $19. Personally, this is a bit pricey for a drug store brand, and I would skip it.

For me the best thing I have found for smoothing out skin tone and reducing the look of dark spots is exfoliation. I love to exfoliate and probably do it a bit too much, but it does work for me. Check out the reviews of some exfoliators I have tested. Also, don't leave the house without applying sunblock! Hands down this is the best precaution for preventing future skin discoloration.

Sunblock.... don't leave home without it!

Hugs,

Tommy Girl: Smells Like Teen Spirit

2010-04-14T14:32:00.003-04:00

Believe it or not, I have dipped into the Mixed Up Retro Perfumery Files of Miss S. and pulled out a winner. An old bottle of Tommy Girl by Tommy Hilfiger.

I can't stop laughing or spritzing myself with this perfume. Originally debuting in 1996, the year I got my driver's license, this scent brings back SO many memories.

It smells of possibilities. At 16, you don't know what the future holds. I personally thought I was going to be an international human rights lawyer or veterinarian. Tommy Girls smells like crushes on boys at summer school and Wallflower songs.

In reality it's made up of floral, heather and sandalwood notes. It smells a little like hairspray and Target to some, but I got a compliment in the highest order when a very fashionable fashionista stopped me and asked what I was wearing. When I revealed to her (sheepishly) that it was le fancy perfume Tommy Girl, the Renaissance-- she told me it smelled very expensive on me! Yay!

Also... the amount of people who tell me I smell good has gone up exponentially since I started re-using this scent. I think it jogs teen memories, the thrill of the unknown, and maybe flirting over lunch with that cute boy from Connecticut named Charlie. The familiarity has led to copious compliments from boys and girls... there's got to be something to this. My friend SS from childhood has never abandoned this scent, and I always love it on her too!

Viva Tommy Girl!

Reunited and it smells so good.

Any retro scents you ladies have dug up and fallen back in love with? Let me know! I am a perfume obsessed gal so I could comment on this for hours... Tea Rose- 4th grade, Tribu- 5th grade, Quelques Fleurs-6th grade, 7th grade, Jessica McClintock 8th grade... Do you see the SICKNESS???

Kisses!

Maybelline Lash Stiletto Redux.

2010-04-14T11:45:00.003-04:00

It's been so long since I gave some love to drugstore mascara. Here's me showing Maybelline's Lash Stiletto a little lovin'. It's my favorite back-up mascara when I am out of Giorgio Armani's Eyes to Kill.

Yay for the new brush in Lash Stiletto! It's a slim old-school pipe cleaner style brush. GOODBYE little rubber spiky messes!

Lash Stiletto is really the best name for this mascara because it makes your lashes really long, and sort of pointed at the ends-- but keeps it lush as the base. I can get my eyes framed, use the wand for a little smear and get out the door in less than 30 seconds.

Sadly, it does not curl your lashes-- it keeps them straight. This works for me... but don't expect back bends from your cils.

The stream-lined brush gets right down to the base of my lashes to help me get the "eyeliner" effect (I am a bit adventurous with my mascaras and I really like to pack it on). I even use it on the bottom (skilled appliers only) and get a great smudgy look, that, as Mugatu would say, "is so hot right now."

I am just so happy that it works like it says it will-- no false promises. Thick base to thin ends-- it really is like the heel of your favorite stiletto's. Short, straight downward-pointing lashes will probably not have success with this mascara-- but me, with long, sparse lashes-- well it's just what I have been looking for at a super affordable $8.20. You'll never be my first string player, but you'll always be my best bench warmer.

That's not so bad!

Kisses!

Chanel's Inimitable Mascara. Save Your Money, Honey.

2010-04-14T00:04:00.003-04:00

Here is the first line of their copy, "In a single stroke it delivers it all: volume, length, curl and precise separation."

Add to that, mess, black crumbles at the end of the day under your lashes, spider lash. What it really delivers is a black hot mess. Long lashes, beware: No matter how much length you add, if they look over separated and scary, it's not very sexy.

I am convinced the best mascara is the one that makes you look woodland creature-esque (think Disney animals), not swamp thang (daddy long leg lashes). I like thick and luscious lashes that can cause a small flurry of wind with their flutter.

Don't buy this.

Hmm. I wore this mascara for over a week before returning it, hoping that it would somehow grow on me. Maybe my application was bad? Um no, application is my forte. It's been over 17 years since I fell in love with mascara, so I've got an adaptable technique.

The problem is really with the brush and my lashes. Long lashes and intense separation just look wrong. The heavy formula makes for clusters of lashes to look like distinct big, hairy, thick protrusions from your eye. It was as if I had an unskilled child artist draw lashes on me as they would on a low-production value cartoon.

Short, fine lashes: Although the brush is excellent in getting to your lash line, and yes, the formula does curl, the heaviness of the product may weigh down your precious lashes. $30? Are you mad, or what???

Mascara grade: C-

E for effort

U for Unsatisfactory and inconsistent results.

Keeping you informed!

Kisses

Queen of... (Shaves!) Bow Down.

2010-04-07T09:48:00.005-04:00

Ta-DA! It's a projected and kind of mildly gross 88 degrees today (oh but how I love Spring!) and if I chose to (which I didn't), I could have worn a skirt without leggings (GASP!).

You know why? Because my leg hair situation is under control, thanks to the new line Queen Of... from the people who brought me my previous favorite King of Shaves.

This line is cutely packaged for a girly woman, in a tube, not a nasty can (please see my previous hatred of rust rings in the shower). We were sent 2 types to try out. Ta-Da and Oooh La La! (S's note: Did I come up with these names?). I love when I can do a head-to-head trial.

Here's why I love this line: The low-to-no foam gel makes shaving less of a mess (I hate when I leave the tub and there's all that moussey icky gunk puddling around the drain!). I picked up the only razor within an arm's reach, some little disposable with a questionable blade (and possibly questionable user history... but that's really more my problem), and hacked away at the winter coat I was using for insulation apparently.

Janky razor + Queen of... Shaves gel= Smooth Gams. No joke!!

Now, I did a really super scientific experiment where I used Ta-Da on one leg and Oooh La La on the other... and truth be told they not only worked exactly the same, they also SMELL exactly the same. One of them, the Ta-Da I believe, just has a pink tint to it. They are supposed to do different things, but I guess I blew their secret that they're the same thing just different packaging. I got an awesome shave either way. Me of the 5'o clock shadows at 6pm on my legs...

Even the next day, I thought there was something 'better' about this shave than when I use my bath gel. And I've always felt this way about this product line, so I am going to make a declaration that honest-to-gosh, The Queen of... is the way to go.

PS- It only costs $3.99. WHAAAT! PPS- It's $2.69 if you google it (but you'll probably have to pay for shipping).

Kiss me on my legs, you won't get beard burned, I promise!

Laura Geller Baked Ethereal Radiance- Good to Glow

2010-04-05T23:53:00.004-04:00

The sun is out, flowers are in bloom, and all of a sudden, my foundation doesn't match as well as it did when I was living in a gloomier Gotham city.

Along came a package from Laura Geller-- in it were some really fabulous items (and I don't say that to win any favors, I hope you know). Amongst the delectable bunch came Laura Geller's Baked Ethereal Balance color corrector - a 2-sided cake with a pearlized rose side and a marbleized yellow side. Baked because the colors really are toothsome and hardened into this compact.

The goal- brighten and balance the complexion by sweeping on a mix of colors, so as to appear most naturally radiant, my dear. The result- a truly well-adjusted complexion.

My face had become ashen and is taking on a ruddier tone as I tan little by little. My foundation was like a sickening mask-- I saw it in photographs for Pete's sake. It no longer is "my" foundation, it's really for and older winter version of myself. The color corrector arrived just in time, a few strokes instantly wake me up and make me look a lot more well-adjusted.

The pink side is almost too pink if you are not careful, and if you accidentally brush a fat streak of it on your nose-- well be prepared for a rose nose. The pearlized effect is also quite strong, but you CAN use this as a stand alone eyeshadow or blush when you want just a hint of a shimmery flush. I have been quite conscious of picking up as much of the yellow as possible. My dream version of this cake would be mostly yellow with just a quarter-sized pink presence on the palette. Say it 3 times fast.

The yellow side is heavenly- I brushed some on under my eyes and felt the camoflauging effects of the yellow over my grey dark circles.

This will be perfect for us Indian ladies because it really takes out that gessoed canvas or ash look and helps put SKIN COLOR back in the mix. I actually am able to spot treat my problem areas, and then go back over my face with this powder and still have an even skin look (I have a lot of SPOTS!).

What I find, is that I look forward to using this product and rely on it as an integral step of my makeup process. I put it on AFTER blush, in order to tone it down a little bit... and ladies... all I can say is that I've been getting nothing but compliments on how "pretty" my skin looks. It's because I don't look like I have makeup on because this palette helps me look more even.

Have I loved it enough?? $31 and I believe it will love you long time because it's a liquid that is baked and hardened into this marbleized formula.

Ethereal Kisses!
S.

Cindy Crawford's Meaningful Beauty

2010-03-17T11:45:00.003-04:00

Last week, G and I were at the CEW beauty awards and the line endorsed by Cindy Crawford, Meaningful Beauty was being featured. Being mesmerized by the informercial, we asked for the line to try out and review for The Gloss Box. We were sent the latest iteration of the skin care line (some reviews go all the way back to 2006, so this review is for the 2010 version of this product).

To thine own self be true.

SO I used it and I have an opinion and an outcome. Before you spend $29.95, know some facts, and know your skin.

Quick note: In August of 2009, I had a facial that made me break out in a terrible case of acne (the woman used a too-heavy oil to moisturize my skin, and caused me to get thousands of little pimples all over my face). To help me heal, I got an Retin A-- but when I did that I RESEARCHED product compatibility. There are a lot of rules to using products which change your skin.

Retin A, vitamin A and other retinoids (which are available even in over the counter products)-- although effective and clinically proven to help fight wrinkles, are also exfoliant accelerators. This means you cannot wax. You cannot be out in the sun without sunscreen (everyday even in the winter). You cannot use any other products which are exfoliants because your skin will become red, itchy, burn and flake off. For this reason, I always read the ingredient deck before I use a product on my skin, and cross reference it with my existing skin care regimen.

Additionally, the molecules in certain oils will also clog your pores, because large molecules cannot be absorbed by our skin. Stay away from products that you leave on like night creams with mineral oil as an ingredient. Most people cannot handle these oils. You need to be cautious, and try and find out your skin type. Then you can figure out what will work for you because most products use the same ingredients!!

Perfect example: Clinque's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. I HATE this product because it makes me breakout, but it's been a best seller since it's debut. It's just not for me, because the mineral oil content will give me a case of the acnes (sic) in 2 weeks. G on the other hand, who has milky skin can handle a whole range of products on her skin because she has a very different skin type than mine. I know me.

Now on to Meaningful Beauty.

Yes, I want to be Cindy Crawford, and always have since I got my first issue of Vogue and she was on the cover in some nautically themed outfit. The infomercial is so powerful, and from what I saw on the internet, this commercial has convinced a lot of people to buy the line. GOOD MARKETING.

I did my homework, and I read the ingredient lists, and I read about other people's experiences with this product. I avoided the eye cream because a lot of people complained about getting redness, itching, flaking and burning. I proceeded with caution, but within 2 days, I was already getting compliments on my skin (from my biggest skin critics, my esti friends).

The accompanying literature does tell you to take it easy with the skin care routine, i.e. use it every other day. So I haven't been using it day and night. Here's how I used the products, and my results.

Cleanser: I normally use Cetaphil, and I find this to be just as gentle. Word to the wise-- read the ingredients. There might be something in there you find unsavory (parabens!). However, it's ultra gentle and it gets off all my makeup. Would I buy it on it's own... No (because of the parabens). Only use it at night.

Protect: The day cream- a light SPF 20 formulation, that leaves my skin feeling non greasy and light, but hydrated. Nice. Would I buy it on it's own... Maybe! It's a nice formulation that doesn't overcompensate with greasiness to make your skin feel hydrated. Only use it after the shower in the daytime.

Decollete: I love that there are so many creams on the market right now for the decollete. It's my favorite part of my body, actually. This cream is light and is instantly absorbed. I test a lot of creams on my neck and chest when I don't want to put them on my face, and I generally don't have a reaction to them. So I would say this product is neutral? Hard to review when the results are going to remain to be seen over time... Would I buy this on it's own? Probably. Only use it at night.

RESTORE: LISTEN UP! For all the women who have complained that their skin is ripped off when waxing, that they have developed reactions to this line over time, this is going to be your culprit. I only used this cream once, because I could sense there was a familiar ingredient in this cream. I missed it the first time I skimmed the ingredient deck, but I found it on the second day. Yes, my skin was nice and soft when I woke up, but it also had the same texture after I use Retin A (which I only use every 2 days because it is such a powerful ingredient). This product contains Retinyl Palmitate, aka a Vitamin A derivative which turns to retinol when applied to the skin. Read above: Retinoids make your skin thinner, and they accelerate the exfoliation of your skin. We don't know the percentage used, but over time as retinol will turn into retinoic acid, your skin will become softer, but you may experience all the adverse effects of using a retinoid. You have been warned, please feel free to use the magical tool which is the internet to continue doing your research on products that contain retinoids. All I will say is that I feel good that I protected myself and my skin by doing my research.

Eyes: I didn't use the eye cream on my eyes, but I did use it on my lips (lips are just as thin as the undereye area, but they exfoliate more rapidly and are overall a little stronger because the skin on them should always be turning over). This product is fine on my lips, but it does contain a lot of weird things I don't necessarily want to be ingesting... so I skip it. Sucks that you have to buy the kit if you can't handle retinoids or this eye cream. Mine is promotional so I feel less bad about skipping the product.

However, if you can find out how to order the kit piecemeal, you have to have to have to get these 2 things:

Purify and the Glowing Serum.

I love these 2 products! Purify is a mask. I instantly had smaller pores, and my skin really looked awesome after I used it. It's a light mask that gets tight and washes off easily. Don't ask what made it work, but I did feel 'soft focused' after I used it. Would I buy it on it's own? YES!

Glowing Serum: J'adore! This could be sold as a cosmeceutical. I don't know if it improves the skin per se, but it makes it LOOK amazing, tight, luminous and the compliments wouldn't stop. I actually keep it in my purse and put it on when I am going out right under my eyes and on my temples. There is some glow you get from it and it really does flatter the skin. And yes, I would buy it on it's own.

Overall, I can understand people's frustrations being expressed online about Meaningful Beauty. For $30 though... it's a GOOD DEAL. Imagine if you only spent $30 on your beauty care every month. That would be amazing for me, because Buddha knows I've wasted so much time and money on products that are way more expensive (like just 1 product) that disappoint. Apparently, you can either buy 1 mask and 1 serum for $92, or get auto delivery every month for about $63 + S. &H. Hmm. If I was a rich girl na na na na na na na NA na na NA. Maybe I would. Or maybe if they were sold in stores, I would buy these 2 products...

It's not a bad line though-- considering you're buying it off of TV. Take it for what it is.

Honest-to-Gosh Kisses!

Good Deo, Bad Deo

2010-03-13T05:21:00.004-05:00

Deodorant, I am obsessed.

Well, not with the products themselves, but with smelling clean and fresh.

I've been through 4 deodorants in the last few months, and I feel very comfortable saying one of the worst deodorants on the market for my body chemistry is Secret. Currently, the one I loathe is Fresh Effects in Wild Orchid. I seriously smell so funky- like a camping trip gone awry. Once again, I was fooled by the packaging. I have tried everything- from the original to the clinical strength and I cannot ever vouch for the efficacy of this product. Everyone's chemistry is different, but I will never buy Secret and expect it to work for me. I want my $5 back.

I ran into L'Occitane one day and picked up (in a clearly Secret-induced emergency) the Eau de Baux men's deodorant (I thought it would work better because it was made for the intense male chemistry). I soon came to find this was not an antiperspirant, because I was sweating large pools through my coat. Very personally, I believe sweating is good for us, and if I could sweat without an odor, I would choose that route. However, this formula doesn't work well in intense situations, like yoga class. I kept getting faint whiffs of what smelled like onions being microwaved in a neighboring room, only to discover the scent was wafting from my own underarms. The one plus was the spicy scent, and sometimes I wear this deodorant on non-yoga days just because it appeals to me. Not a complete fail, but definitely not worth the $16 I spent on it, even if it is alcohol free.

Desperation also led me to try Dove's Go Fresh in their Grapefruit and Lemongrass scent. Terrible. Leaves an awful residue all over my clothes even though it's supposed to be clear. And the smell of the body is somehow exacerbated by the awful scent of this ick stick. Yeah, I called this deodorant an ick stick. I hate this stuff. And lest you think I am anti-drugstore-deodorants...

The winner of my deo challenge is the Vaseline Intensive Care Roll On Fresh Deodorant. You don't understand! This stuff actually works. No weird smell, it's an antiperspirant and deodorant. It staves off anxiety and adrenaline induced sweat sessions, and can comfortably raise my arms because I'm SURE I smell fine. Here's the catch: I think it's only available in the UK and Ireland because that's where I bought it. And I biked about 18 miles and smelled good. In long sleeves. Plus I use it every time I know I am going to be in intimate situations. Take your mind out of the gutter, I meant whenever I would even be raising my arms to apply makeup. WINNER. Sorry about the unavailability in the US situation. Next time you're at my petite paradise, BOOTS, pick this stuff up! The best use of $5, ever.

Freshness counts.

Kiss Kiss

Perricone MD's Cold Plasma.

2010-03-13T04:34:00.003-05:00

The best thing about this product is the name. And the color which is a soft sea foam green.

I immediately saw a deterioration in my skin in just 2 days.

Girls, my pores look huge, like I can make extra income subletting space in them.

Online, there are so many mixed reviews about this product, I am just so confused. I often forego testing skin care products, because of a terrible facial last August that has left me scarred and scerred (dirty South style). But as I slowly let down my guard, I thought I would try out the 'exceptional' neuropeptide delivery cream that is supposed to help reduce the top 10 signs of aging like redness, firmness, wrinkles, enlarged pores--- errrrrrrrrrrrrrk!! The record stops. Does it means it ENLARGES pores? Because, like I said, I am so confused.

Here's the review that I think this cream needs to have: a runny, non-moisturizing cream that makes your skin look like a flesh colored strawberry. Or at least, that's what it did to my skin. I believe there are several iterations of this cream floating out there because online, at QVC and at Dr. Perricone's own site, the feedback is so mixed. Some people complain about the smell (normally I would complain about this too, especially since people say it smells 'fishy', but my version of the cream doesn't reek. And my nose knows). Some people complain about the messy, unnecessary packaging (mine came in a small box, properly sealed with standard packaging plastic) and some people say it makes their 68 year old skin look like that of a 40 year old. Well... I think I must have gotten the batch that is pore enlarging, making my 30 year old skin look like that of a giant-pored 68 year old.

Fortunately, I received this as a gift (not a promotional one, but in a gift bag), so I did not have to go out and spend $150 on this exceptionally petite jar of pore-expander.

As a disclaimer, my skin is super sensitive and I always have to beware of what I put on my face because I will break out very easily. I did a test on my neck and chest for a week to make sure my skin could handle this cream. Even though there wasn't much "to do" i.e. no wrinkles quite yet, I didn't see any improvements.

Caveat Emptor indeed!

Hmmm.

Kiss kiss.

Revlon ColorStay™ Liquid Lipstick

2010-03-12T13:00:00.003-05:00

I must eat a lot of lipstick and lip gloss on a daily basis. The moment I put it on, about 5 minutes later it is off. It is really frustrating actually. My lips are quite pale, and a little lip color goes a long way for me. I need the stuff… badly! Whenever I get asked that silly question – If you could only have one make-up item what would it be… I say lip gloss!!! I’ve got loads of lip gloss in my apartment, in every hand bag and in every coat pocket. I’m truly addicted to the stuff! So, recently I’ve been on the look out for a long lasting lip color. I’m usually weary of these long wear lip colors because they make my lips really dry and chapped looking. I end up looking like I’ve rubbed Crayola markers on my lips. Very unattractive!

I recently tried out the Revlon ColorStay™ Liquid Lipstick in color #1 Nude (075). It’s that pinky mauve type of color that looks excellent on South Asian skin tones. I must say that when I first applied it to my lips, it glided on quite smoothly… like butta. The consistency is a little watered down for my taste, so when you pull out the wand you will need to rub some of the lip color back into the container because a little goes a long way! The color is quite saturated, so seriously… a little does go a long way! I’ve been using it everyday for the past week. It is one of the longest lasting lip colors I have ever used. I am a chatterbox and a snackerbox (my invented word for a person who snacks a lot) and the color last for hours! Mind you, after a few hours it is not as saturated as when you first apply it, but your lips will have color for hours! I will say though, that this liquid lipstick is by no means moisturizing. Wearing it alone will make you lips feel very dry and uncomfortable. This morning I applied it and layered it with a coat of Yes To Carrots Lip Butter. It looks fantastic and natural! I find it to be super annoying to constantly apply lip color all day long… and oftentimes wonder how unhealthy that might actually be! The Revlon ColorStay™ Liquid Lipstick is a good alternative to constant lip color application. This lip color retails for around $10. There are 20 shades available, which can be purchased at any major drugstore.

So, my honest opinion of the lip color is that I like how it adds a lovely long lasting color to my very pale lips, but it quite drying! The Revlon website says the following:

• Food-proof lipcolor with a built-in, ultra-conditioning topcoat
• One-step application- No topcoat required for comfortable wear
• Stays comfortable and wears beautifully for up to 12 hours
• Does not feather or fade; no touch-ups required, even after meals
• Available in 20 full-coverage, soft satin shades

This lip color is by no means ultra-conditioning! You absolutely need to wear something moisturizing on top! For now, I will wear it as a base color, because at the moment I have not found a better alternative. But don’t worry ladies… I am still on the look out for a long lasting lip color, and by gosh I will find one, or maybe invent one of my own!

Hugs,

G

DO It! Revlon's Run/Walk for Cancer

2010-03-06T08:32:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the past fundraising efforts, Entertainment Industry Foundation and Revlon have been able to help fund women's cancers research (say that fast 3 times). The money being raised is finding new treatments and saving lives.

The Gloss Box Girls would like to give our fundraising support to The South Asian Women's Leadership Forum, headed by team captain Arti Dua. Click anywhere on this post to give your support to them through a donation of your choosing. For the The Gloss Boxer who donates the most, we will send you a lovely little gift (we have ways of finding out).

Kisses and Hugs from The Gloss Box Girls!

S & G

Everything That Goes On You, Goes In You...

2010-03-05T07:47:00.004-05:00

Everything that goes on you, goes in you. All of our lovely lotions and potions are getting into our systems and causing Buddha-only-knows what type of problems. I have been taking a serious effort to minimize my exposure to food-carried garbage as of late (and hopefully it's not too late). Here's another article to add to my Fear List. Bromine, an iodine obstructor, is found in our food, from the uber toxic Mountain Dew (I just thought it tasted bad, I didn't realize how bad it was FOR YOU) to commercial bread and pastries to *GASP* our makeup and lotion.

Here's a long-ish article, but something that I didn't know before: the prevalence of bromine in all we eat, do, breathe... Click here and read it (and try not to weep... or slowly sob).

Read it and get informed.

After all Joe's...

Knowing is half the Battle.

Cautious Kisses

Can You be Somebody, Even if Nobody Loves You?

2010-03-03T08:34:00.004-05:00

YES!

Tip of the day comes to us via Michael Leviton and The New Jerk Times and his video You're Somebody, Even If Nobody Loves You. (further props on this amazing video because it's directed by our darling Shruti Rya Ganguly).

I love this video!!

Kisses!

Le Labo Rose 31. Officially Obsessed.

2010-02-27T17:49:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I forget things. Like the fact that my SuperBFF R has been telling me forever to myself to Le Labo in Los Angeles (and New York), assuring me how much I am going to love it. Or like the fact that this other very stylish friend of ours always smells divine, and she smells the way I have always thought suited me, and she told me to go to Le Labo.

I forget. But today, on a slushy, sunny late winter afternoon, I found the little lab that I have been urged to visit for 3 years. Le Labo is on Elizabeth Street between Prince and Spring in NoLita -- and inside I found a bottle of ME (as in moi, me, S.). Well, it's not really that unique.
What it is really: a 12 Scent store, full of perfumes which are comprised of lovely ingredients, that wear down uniquely on every individual. It has this fun gimmicky twist that every bottle is "made" for you by a lab-coated person, and your name is put on the label. Love.

The packaging is super simple- bottles with stoppers made to appear like potions in a modern apothecary.
The store itself has a warm, industrial feel, with dark walls and off kilter signs indicating the intended wearer of the fragrances. Ignore those signs.

There are unisex, femme and homme scents -- but I found one femme scent and one homme scent that I can't get off my mind. My perfume taste ranges from heavy and dry florals (my first perfume and eternal love will always be Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant) to the romantic cinnamon notes of Tocca's Brigitte.

Rose 31 is the one I have been searching for my whole life that mixes the two worlds. I imagine that the man of my dreams, this 6ft + Unknown who I fantasize will share my love of all things good-smelling will also fall in love with me because I smell like him. It is, afterall, a man's scent. The top note of rose wears down to a toasty wood finish that is deep and sensual. It's just so soft and important at the same time. I will spend the $130 for this little 1.7 fl. oz bottle, if it means I can feel sexy all day long. (PS- apparently there are notes of CUMIN, olbanum, cedar and amber in this scent in addition to rose. Hilarious if you know me because I consume loads of cumin. In everything. Which is why all my cooking tastes the same... it must be some animal instinct in me to be so drawn to this fragrance...). I can't get Rose 31 off my mind. It's gentle and delicate and doesn't overpower the senses.

And then there is the femme scene Labdanum, which has a scent trail dating back to Egyptian times. It is the resin of the rockrose shrub, and the resulting aroma is filled with robust, deep, mysterious notes that resemble amber, but have their own feral and musky qualities. I can't stop smelling the little paper sprayed with the scent. It evokes so many episodes at once- a room warmed by a fireplace, crisp nights, and lots of other things that are too R rated to discuss on a blog which my mother frequents. This scent would probably not translate well onto a man... or would it? Because I am so attracted to the smell of this little strip of paper which has been sprayed for my sniffing pleasure.

Enough already. I am in heaven because of these lovely smells. I am my own walking aromatherapy! Le Labo had also come out with signature scents per city. R was super lucky to get the Paris-exclusive (apparently the store in LA defied convention and carried it- the NYC store doesn't have it). Vanille 44 was simply divine on R- her scent for the ages, the epitome of what she stands for. Scent-wise, of course. The New York perfume, Tubereuse 40, smelled a little thin and citrusy for my liking. (Apparently this rebel Le Labo in LA also sold the Dallas scent, which R said smelled like hairspray and gasoline. hee hee And R is almost ALWAYS right!!).

I will be saving my milk money and getting myself a bottle of Le Labo without fail. Maybe then my Unknown 6'+ love of my life man will use his good taste to find me because he will recognize that we would be scent-sational together. I'll keep all y'all posted if this pie in the sky fantasy comes true.

Until then, Love Le Labo.
Romantic, dreamy, kisses...
S.

(PS they have a full selection of home scents, candles, lotions and other riff raff but I only have eyes for the perfume. Check out their website to get a fuller overview of what Le Labo is all about. And they sell the lovely things at Barney's) S.

Please vote: My nomination for the first Lufthansa A380

2010-02-17T20:24:00.001-05:00

SO I am totally the biggest geek and I want to win a contest to name the new Lufthansa A380 Plane. My name is Platinum Jet, on page 90, near the tail section.

Kisses!
S.

My nomination for the first Lufthansa A380: "The A380 the new Lufthansa flagship, a special experience, the Lufthansa A380. Find out more about the fascination of a new era in air travel. Take part, Raffles, Downloads, Photos, Video, Gallery, First Flight in 2010."

Bad Gal Lash in Plum- Misleading Because It's really just Brown

2010-02-15T11:13:00.005-05:00

Mascara. Love it, live it, and it's the question I get asked the most. What is my favorite. I think depending on my answer, the girls decide whether or not to become a GlossBoxer. It depends on your lash-type, my darlings.

Benefit's Bad Gal $19 is definitely for a certain lash type. I would NOT recommend it to women who have short curly lashes. The brush is full and thick, and formula is rich and deposits itself best on longer lashes.

I went with the Plum (yes, purple, again. I'm sorry, but I have a natural affinity for it). Here's the deal with the plum mascara from Benefit: It goes on like a red-cast brown. The exact color of my not-so-natural hair, actually. So my lashes are defined, but not darkened. For this reason, I feel that I can't give this mascara my highest commendations, because it's essentially fattening but not flattering.

The part I DO love about this mascara: I feel it makes my eyes look less muddy, with more of the glassy sparkle (the same look people have when they are starving or high. Yes I know this makes me sound twisted, but I feel models always have that lusty sparkle in their eyes during fashion week presentations, as the macarons get passed up and around during the shows, and they have to stand there giving good face, desperately low on blood sugar). That about-to-pass out sheen in the eyes is what I'm after. I know I could give up eating (oh how I've flirted with that idea for hours, only to indulge in a porky bowl of ramen, or the sugary chewy pillow donuts I bought yesterday...)-- anyway enough of my porno thoughts about food. I feel this particular shade of purple makes my brown eyes more nuanced than a black mascara. That is the bottom line. I will keep it, and use it as my backup-in-my-purse mascara, to be smudged about in one of those inevitable after work cocktails scenarios.

My advice about buying it: If you feel black mascara is too obvious and vulgar for your looks, this plum shade will be perfect for you. It really does nothing but thicken my lashes (ie, it doesn't frame my eyes like black mascara does) but I feel it makes my brown eyes look somewhat less boring. Subtly. It's demure, despite the exciting name, and it starts to clump at the 3rd coat.

Only buy it if you're looking for a mascara adventure. If you want a real purple, try YSL Faux Cils in Violet, which is much more exciting.

Overall: M-E-H, ladyfriends.

Kisses!

MAC Spring Colour Forecast 3 Vintage Grape Ombre Blush

2010-02-15T10:35:00.006-05:00

As I write this, I don't know if the excitement and adrenaline running through my veins is the result of my third cuppa tea or the sheer giddy thrill I get when I talk about or look at my latest acquisition: MAC's Blush Ombre in Vintage Grape, $25, as part of their Spring Colour Forecast series. Yes, my darlings, purple blush that comes in a shaded palette ranging from mid tone pink/violet to a plummy cabernet.

Sometimes, I worry that my like for the color purple gets a little cheesy (I just bought a plum mascara... Oops). But the moment I used this palette, I was squealing, like someone had just sent me flowers for Anna Howard Shaw Day (aka Feb 14th).

Ok so here's the deal: Went to a daytime fashion show yesterday and decided to use my purple blush. Just the slightest tap pulls up enough color from the lighter end of the spectrum-- the finely jet milled pigments are far superior to the average MAC blushes, but require a light and skilled hand when applying. The result was almost a deep bitten fuchsia blush. Take care to use the right brush, because the color deposit will resemble rosacea if you are not careful.

My rosy cheek made my eyes pale in comparison, so I tapped my ring finger into the deep end of the blush and used it as an eyeshadow. The result: perfectly blendable and highly pigmented rich red grape shadow for my eyes, which I built it up into a suitable daytime smoky eye (the purple right over my lid, and then blending it out into a believable rose towards the brow made the look seamless and not too girl-up-in-da-club).

I did not look like a clown, the name "grape" is misleading-- turns out to be a thick juicy plum shade when swept lightly onto the cheeks. The blush is really suitable for brunettes, especially yellow/olive, and deep mocha to blue-black skin. I personally have a yellow/pale look and love pastel pinks and peaches-- so a purple palette as a blush was a departure from the safety dance I usually do with rouge. But it's strikingly gorgeous when correctly applied. (I would say, Redheads stay away).

The other delicious ombre palettes from MAC looked wonderful, but I know the Vintage Grape is so unique, it's going to sell out (speaking of, can someone- anyone! alert me if you come across the Nars Shadow Pencil in Goddess. 3 Month waiting list. Can you believe!?)

I feel I will own this forever (or until I drop it and shatter it like ALL my other blush cakes. Klutz-o).

So bottomline: Get this thing FAST. It's a blush, it's a shadow it's the kookiest, most beautiful utilitarian palette in the history of my makeup buying and using.

J'adore.

Kisses!

Kush Support and Beyond.

2010-02-04T08:41:00.002-05:00

I was over on Bonnie's hilarious site, Peculiar Beauty (check out it when you have some time, vintage beauty advice which she takes "seriously"), when I came across this about AWESOME beauty contraptions. I was once the sad purchaser of an at-home hair-removal system that cost $100 in 1998 (add inflation, carry the 0... that's about $500 in today's currency!). Anyway it was an Igia (Igia, you may not know this, is Eurogarble for crappy product) and I overspent and guess what? It was nothing but a set of plastic tweezer attached to some plastic box which was said to be delivering radio frequencies to kill my hair at the root. It didn't do that, and to get my revenge on spending all the money I had at the time on a plastic box, I started this blog. Here are some more Igia-esque products to look out for. Snark and all.

Bedazzle Your Talons

2010-01-31T14:16:00.005-05:00

G and I are suckers for borough-approved Nail Art. Here is a video shot at our favorite beuty parlor in the world, Michael Angelo's Wonderland Parlor (yes they do calgels and nail art).

Boycott FAKE Organic Products

2010-01-16T00:20:00.003-05:00

An article by www.dailykos.com

Hate to break it to you, but there are some so-called "organic" personal care products out there that aren't really organic and actually contain hazardous ingredients that would never be allowed in products certified to USDA organic standards.

OrganicConsumer's diary :: ::

Do you use "Jason Pure, Natural & Organic," "Avalon Organics," "Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic," "Nature's Gate Organics," "Stella McCartney 100% Organic Active Ingredients," "Giovanni Organic," "Head Organics," "Eminence Organic," "Physicians Formula Organic," or "Good Stuff Organics," "Desert Essence Organics" or any "organic cosmetic" certified by Ecocert?

They're all fakers!

The Organic Consumers Association's Coming Clean campaign has launched a boycott of cosmetics that claim to be organic, but aren't certified to organic standards as required by law. Here are letters from consumers explaining why they've joined the boycott. If you'd like to tell your own story, click here.

(Why is the USDA allowing products that aren't certified to call themselves organic? We don't know, but we're trying to get them to enforce the law for cosmetics, as they already do for food. You can help us keep the pressure on the USDA's National Organic Program by taking action here.)

There is so much more!! Click Clock don't Stop... Click here!!

Helping the Survivors in Haiti

2010-01-14T08:24:00.005-05:00

A serious call to action:

I can't look at the pictures, but just the little I have read about the destruction in Haiti sends crippling waves of sorrow through my body.

Act: We can't undo the damage, but we can immediately provide resources aka cash for those who are in need. We can't rebuild their lives overnight but we can help send doctors to Haiti to deal with those that have been wounded. Right now, sending money the those that CAN help is the best course of action.

$10 is not a lot of money to us, but tell a friend so we can get up to $100, $1000-- these things add up. Please tell your friends and family to put the $10 or more into the pot to make good things happen for others.

You can be assured that your money is going to the right places because the charities listed below have been highly rated by ChAarityNavigator.Com which is an independent non-profit organization that evaluates charity groups based on their effectiveness and financial security.

American Red Cross
The American Red Cross' primary focus during the initial response of an emergency is feeding, sheltering and supplying any other basic needs. To donate: Go to RedCross.org, hit donate now button at top and then International Response Fund. You also can text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the International Response Fund. The money will go directly to relief efforts in Haiti. Or call 1-800-Red-Cross.
AmeriCares
This nonprofit disaster relief organization delivers medicine, medical supplies and aid to people in crisis around the world. To donate, call 1-800-486-HELP or go to AmeriCares.org. Donations will go toward medicine and medical supplies and for expenses for providing that medical aid.
Care This humanitarian organization's main focus is to fight global poverty, specifically by empowering marginalized women and girls. To donate to the Haiti relief fund effort, go to Care.org or call 1-800-521-CARE. Money will go toward food, water and sanitation, shelter and emergency health response.
Direct Relief International
Direct Relief provides medical attention to those in need on an ongoing basis and in emergencies. Monetary donations go toward medical aid, supplies and equipment in Haiti. To donate, go todirectrelief.org or call 805-964-4767 and 800-676-1638, or go through Google Checkout.
Medecins sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders)
The humanitarian organization delivers medical care to people caught in crisis. Donations to its Haiti relief efforts will go toward repairing the obstetrics and trauma hospitals in Haiti that were damaged in the earthquake. They also will go to transporting an additional 70 doctors and medical supplies to the island in an effort to set up makeshift emergency medical response centers. To donate, go to doctorswithoutborders.org or call 1-888-392-0392.
International Medical Corps
This emergency response agency focuses on health in emergency situations. Monetary donations go toward purchasing medical supplies, medicine and emergency kits and transporting these supplies. 1-800-481-4462 or go to imcworldwide.org
Medical Teams International
The Christian global health organization sends volunteer medical teams and supplies to those in the midst of disaster or poverty. Monetary donations will go to supporting the medical teams being sent to Haiti and to the cost of shipping the medical supplies donated by corporations. Donate by going to medicalteams.org and clicking on the "Donate Now" button, or call 1-800-959-HEAL (4325) or send a check to Medical Teams International, P.O. Box 10, Portland, OR 97207.
Mercy Corps
The organization provides humanitarian assistance and economic opportunities in the world's toughest places, specifically those dealing with poverty, conflict and instability. To donate, go toMercyCorps.org. Money will go toward immediate humanitarian needs in Haiti, which may include, food, water and temporary shelter.
Operation USA
The international relief agency provides funding for reconstruction and development aid to communities that have experienced disasters, disease and poverty. For its Haiti relief efforts, the agency plans to use donations for health care materials, water purification supplies and food supplements. To donate, go to opusa.org or call 1-800-678-7255, or mail a check to Operation USA, 3617 Hayden Ave., Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232.
Save the Children
The independent organization focuses on children in need in the U.S. and globally through programs for health and nutrition, child protection and education. To donate, go to savethechildren.org, or call 1-800-728-3843 or 203-221-4030. Donations will go toward purchasing relief items, such as hygiene kits, family kits (pots, pans, food preparation items) and tarps.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army's mission is to provide food, shelter, clothing and spiritual comfort during disasters. To donate money, go tosalvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Make sure you designate the donation for "Haiti Earthquake." Money will go to the Salvation Army in Haiti, which will determine the country's immediate needs, including water, food, medicine and transportation.
Shelterbox
The nonprofit delivers boxes of supplies to families of up to 10 people. The boxes contain a tent and essential equipment to use while individuals are displaced or homeless. To donate, call 941-907-6036 or go to shelterbox.org.
U.S. Fund for UNICEF
The national committee for UNICEF is responsible for the organization's fundraising. UNICEF uses the money for health care, clean water, nutrition, education and emergency relief. To donate, go to Unicefusa.org or 1-800-4-UNICEF.
World Food Programme
The food assistance agency's main focus is to fight hunger worldwide. The organization is working to bring food to Haiti. To donate, go to wfp.org.

King of Shaves! Pamper and Moisturise Yourself

2009-12-28T15:43:00.006-05:00

I am sort of totally irresponsible about keeping the hair on my legs ... removed. When I get the urge, I just grab whatever lubricant like soap, hair conditioner-- anything-- and just hack away. Only to be left with a 5 o clock shadow at around 6pm (It's healthy to have hair growth).

Anyway the other day, I used a real deal shave gel, King of ShaveS Women Shave and Moisturise [sic- it's from the UK] Gel, about $6. It's a light gel, scented oh-so-nicely with roses and peonies and filled with Vitamin E. And it's Low to no foam-- I find this important so that shaving is just not such a mess.

The advantage of using this gel is cleaner, closer shave on the legs. And for me, it left my legs smoother. I always feel like I shaved yesterday-- even if it was this morning. Shave gels actually contain an ingredient that raises your hair, so you can actually get a closer shave. Much better than just soap.

And just so you know why I like and recommend this shave gel, I used a jankified razor that has been sitting in my shower since October, and I STILL got amazingly smooth legs. Normally, my shower would have looked like a Psycho-inspired murder scene, but instead, I have smooth gams under my leggin's!

Ok here's the scoop: I really hate the cans that Smooth Shave or Skin So Soft comes in because it RUINS my showers with their rusting. This comes in a bottle, smells awesome, gives you smooth legs, what more could you want or NEED from a shave gel??? GET it.

Kisses!

Lonely Eyes: Bare Escentuals Flawless Mascara. HAW!

2009-11-30T23:26:00.004-05:00

HAW as in, are you kidding me? Are we meant to live like this? THIS as in with spiky, drying, spidery lashes, which leave a fine black crumble under your eyes after dinner? Can this really be a concern for a modern mascara? Was there zero testing done. I mean, I know we're not testing on animals (yay), but please, get some human subjects to know how embarrassing it is to walk away from a lovely dinner, happy on a couple glasses of wine, to get home and see a panda bear with black and gray flocking under the eyes. Thank Buddha for dimly lit Lower East Side restaurants is all I have to say.

Bare Escentuals Flawless Mascara (HAW! Again!), $15 comes with an intensely separating spiky little rubber brush. The brush makes it easy to get to the base of lashes, but leaves the long ones crusted over in a hard-looking manner. The ends become sharp and militant-looking. Excellent for the Gothic and aggressively dramatic looks. I have nothing more to say, it basically looks awful until you comb out the lashes (with a dry mascara brush). Boo! I normally love Bare Escentual products, but this mascara doesn't give the full, flirty lash I crave. Definitely not a beautifying beauty product. Does that make sense? It doesn't make you prettier, just gives you really harsh-looking lashes. It definitely darkens, and coats every lash, but it just doesn't make you seem like the most beautiful gal at the party. It just makes you look like you got your first mascara and applied it without a hint of technique.

Don't buy it. You've been warned.

Kisses

Lean Like a Chola

2009-11-19T22:11:00.002-05:00

Let Baby Smiley guide you to perfect Chola-dom. G and I both know how HELLA important this is because it takes us back to our roots. Enjoy!

The Gloss Box's Totally Beautiful Girl: SUPHALA!

2009-10-25T21:31:00.012-04:00

Several years ago, I started hearing the collective rumblings of an Indian-American girl who was infiltrating the male-dominated pantheon of the Indian percussionist world. Suphala (pronounced SOO-fah-la) has been masterfully playing her tablas, the distinctive sounding hand drums which lend Eastern melodies and rhythms their particular pace alongside some of the most recognizable names in music since she put out Instru Mental in 2000, her first of 3 albums. In 2005, Suphala made history when she became the first female to perform publicly in a post-Taliban Afghanistan. GUTS!

This past July, I was lucky enough to (through happenstance, as it were) turn up at her house to drop off some joo-ree for a photo shoot. Here's the kicker: Suphala happens to be about the prettiest tabla player you can ever imagine. Her photos barely do justice to capture what can only be described and the most tamed wild beauty. And to top it all off? She's as nice as pumpkin pie (which is the best type of pie. mmmmmm).

She is not only extremely talented, fun and a great musician who, according to the St. Petersburg Times, plays the tabla like Bruce Lee, "... with fast hands and a furious beauty"-- but she was nice enough to agree to be The Gloss Box's Totally Beautiful Girl as someone who is out there breaking barriers, never handicapped by the daunting weight and title of being the most famous female tabla player in the world (seriously, she is known everywhere-- from Moscow to Minnesota where she's from).

Suphala's personal look is all about her signature hair-- which is long and curly-- and has a quality to it that matches her petite frame. Her features -- from eyes to lips-- seem as if they were drawn to perfection (but all without makeup, just genetic gifts). The lashes are unreal. She keeps her makeup simple, fresh, and doesn't need to much to go from genuine natural beauty to glamorous Tabla Goddess.

The Gloss Box asked her a couple of questions about what it was like to be Suphala and here's what she shares with us.

You go on vacation and you realize you forgot your makeup kit. What is the first thing you run out and buy. What is the brand you would search for?

Make Up Forever's mascara and lipstick.

Oooh- I have been hearing so many good things about Make Up Forever-- Try out the Lacquered Transparent Lipstick in Mandarin for a super natural look and wear.

What was your first beauty purchase.

Hair product which i no longer use-- Both G and I have sisters with curly hair. We know how challenging this can be! Check out G's sister post on Suave Herbal Mousse for curly-haired ladies.

Tell us more about your music, how you got started, your gurus, your influences etc. What drove you to start in this field. What advice would you give to women who want to pursue a non traditional field?

I love music, and tabla became the instrument I zoned in on. I was fortunate to find and be accepted by two of the greatest masters of this instrument, Ustad Allarakha and his son, Ustad Zakir Hussain. Their guidance and inspiration is unparallel, and with this, I became hooked. The advice that I would give is that if you know you love something, you must pursue it without doubt, and with determination. There is something we are all good at, and if we are fortunate to know what that is, nothing should be allowed to get in the way. We need all types of art and people in this world.

Is there any old at-home beauty remedy that you do?

About once a week, I put Brahmi - Amla oil in my hair for about 20 minutes before washing it. Brahmi is good for the brian/ memory and Amla is rich in vitamins and minerals. Putting nutritious oil in the hair is an age-old regimen for Indian women, who are known for their hair around the world.

The Gloss Box loves Global Goddesses Coconut Amla oil. Check out the review here.

What woman inspires you and/or who has inspired you in terms of your style and your beauty routine.

A combination of confidence, intelligence, strength, softness, and femininity are traits which I think make a woman beautiful, and when combined with humility and the ability to show love to all kinds of people - these are traits which make every human inspiring and beautiful.

Suphala is going to be performing to promote her new songs that are out. She'll be with her trio at Le Poisson Rouge on November 9th with doors opening at 10, performance at 1030. I've been to her performances, and they're awesome-- very cool!

Le Poisson Rouge

158 Bleecker Street

New York, NY 10012

$15 at the door

Kisses and Hugs!

S & G

Lipstick Queen – Fifteen Minutes of Fame – Pop Art Gloss

2009-10-25T21:15:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I had a much needed day of beauty. I started off with an amazing manicure from Sakura Nail Spa, a Japanese nail salon in LES (35 E 1st Street, 212-722-1334) that offers Calgel Manicures. S always has the most beautiful clean looking nails, so I knew I had to give this place a shot. Apparently her manicures last three weeks without a chip. Calgel is a nail gel that is actually good for your nails. It comes in so many gorgeous colors. Many glam girls, including S, like to get the Calgel nail design. You can literally get any design you or your nail technician can dream up, from images of Hello Kitty, rhinestone design work, lovely little 3-D hair bows. I’ve had my manicure for over a week and it still looks great. This is a really big deal for me! I am the girl who ruins her manicure the moment she walks out of the salon. I don’t know what I do differently from other women, but my nails always seem to get messed up. I love Calgel! My nails are so much stronger and so glam. I can’t stop looking at them. I am looking at them now. They look so pretty while I type! He he!

So, after my manicure I headed over to my fav hair salon, Michael Angelo's Wonderland Beauty Parlour to get a haircut from the fabulous Tiffani. If you know me, you know I am so paranoid about cutting my hair. I’ve had one too many bad haircuts, and have become oh too conservative when it comes to changing my hair style. Tiffani always gives me the best haircuts, and is always encouraging me to cut a bit more off. During the last few weeks, I’ve started to notice that my hair was getting waaaay too long, and starting to resemble that of a lions wild mane. You know your hair is getting too long when it gets stuck in your arm pits, zippers and hand bags. My hair was literally making me late for appointments! Getting angry at your hair is never and good thing so I decided to let Tiffani take off a few inches. Of course as always, she did an amazing job, and my hair looks fabulous!

As usual, when I go to visit Tiffani, I always end up perusing the lovely beauty section after my haircut. S and I love Lipstick Queen, and I noticed that the owner Poppy King just came out with a new lip gloss collection called Fifteen Minutes of Fame. The line is inspired by the pop art style of Andy Warhol, who in 1968 predicted that “in future everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.” How true is that! The line of glosses is absolutely splendid and comes in 15 delectable, lip popping shades, each of which represent a minute of fame. It is the perfect pop of color and applies like butter! The gloss is neither sticky nor shimmery. A very professional, modern yet fabulously fun gloss to wear. I absolutely love shades 3 Min and 4 Min. 4 min is a lovely pinky mauve, a color that I am known to wear often, and 3 min is a gorgeous pinky watermelon like color, that looks oh so loverly, giving your lips that oh so precious pouty perrrrrrfect look! I am addicted to 3 min, and know I will run out of it very soon! The tubes are too small! Poppy is a smart business woman, my little dears. The gloss retails for around $15. Certainly not a bad price, but a lot less gloss than I am used to getting. While the color and consistency are quite appealing, the staying power is lacking. I am constantly applying the stuff! Poppy, if you or any of your people are reading this from your lovely office or home down under... please offer larger tubes of this lovely gloss!!!

Hugs,
G

Professional Photos and Makeover at Estee Lauder

2009-10-23T11:52:00.005-04:00

click the title link to read the article...

This was sent it in by one of our most beautiful readers JC in SF.

In order to make themselves relevant to a younger audience, Estee Lauder (in a genius move) is offering up makeovers complete with a professional pic at the end of (!) it. It's great because you can post it to your profile, because they send it straight to your inbox. I am so smitten with this contemporary and timely move on their part, and ability to reach out to a new audience.

In the article, the woman who writes it says she is now aware of the pore cream. She sort of focuses on how she feels too made-up, but really, how often do we get to have professional photos with professional makeup taken? Not very! And if you need it for a bio, just photoshop the background out. I'll see if G and I can get to Bloomie's this weekend to try it all out.

Kisses!

Ryan Darius Salon

2009-10-20T20:54:00.004-04:00

I want to go back to the girly clubhouse in the Village. Just below Union Square, on the south east corner of 12th St at 6th Avenue sits this charming little salon.

Tastefully decorated withe French doors and mirrored furniture, the intimate salon is run by the extremely cute and smiley Ryan Nickulas. I walked in the other day in a total stressed out about the frizzy mangey mess on my head. I just could not get it to look healthy. I wanted a Keratin straightening treatment. Ryan was super honest, told me with the volume of the mange, it was going to run me around $500. Sorry hun, not iTe (in THIS economy-- yeah I'm still hurting). Instead he suggested I get a blow out and try out the Keratin maintenance serum ($45 for the serum).

I did the blow out, and appreciated his honesty as to my options for my hair (PS the stuff really did make my hair feel better and has been helping me with my blowouts, not the same results as the actual Keratin treatment, but it's still WAY better than anything I have been using off the shelf).

I read that Ryan does his cuts dry-- and apparently he is excellent with coloring, too.I need to schedule this there, ASAP.

While I was there, I also got a manicure by their in-house nail tech TJ. So good! Especially after my totally disastrous Chinatown emergency manicure, having TJ treat me like a princess with his firm and confident manicure (yes, it does make a difference who does the mani). They use all Butter London formulations which are 3-free: Formaldehyde, Toluene, and DBP (all the things that are especially harmful if you is preggers). And not to mention, gorgeous and chic. I went with a muddy clay/gray mushroom color called Fash Pack (sounds ugly, but I've been getting nothing buy compliments ALL week). The best part of the mani is that they honor chips for up to a week. I really appreciated that the manicure was executed perfectly, and has lasted me almost all week.

I loved just being in the salon, it was just the way I would want my house to be decorated. It was orchids, and wallpaper and Louis Vuitton trunks as coffee tables. Insouciant little touches which I L-O-V-E.

It's not less expensive here, but it's a wonderful, very personal experience. It's hard to find salons where you trust the stylist, and feel welcome-- especially when you first move somewhere. I really really liked the energy and people at this salon, and the services which I had performed on me. I want you guys to check out this salon!

Check out the website, and give them a call. I can't even tell you how nice and how cozy this salon is. I won't call it cute, because it's way too tasteful and elegant.

Have fun and let me know what you think once you visit.

Kisses!

Ryan Darius Salon

82 West 12th St.

New York, NY 10010

Mally 24-7 Professional Eye-Lining System. Get it!

2009-10-20T20:16:00.003-04:00

I want to be fresh-faced, but this is not the card I was handed in life. Why, without eyeliner, sources confirm to me that I look truly sick, sad or ill. Can you believe it?? It's because no one is used to seeing me without all the black rimming my eyes.

Having said that, I am also a raccoon with the type of eye area that smudges and runs because I have such an oily eye area.

I went to Bendel's and saw the Mally counter. Mally Roncal sells on QVC and at Bendel's (odd, but a smart business move, perhaps?). She happens to be a Kimora Lee look-alike, and I was hoping she made a line of ethnic makeup. Alas, not so much, although she was Beyonce's makeup artist for a while (and we know how I love me some Queen B!).

I went ahead and bought her waterproof eyeliner, which the artist at the counter assured me was her favorite product in the line. I need something where I can rim the inside and the outside of the eyes.

It is a 3-step eye lining process (which in theory I hate, but in practice, it's not so bad).

1. Put on the eyeliner-- which is like a color stay, slightly dry pencil. But it's not bad!

2. Tap on the white "waterproofing" powder (comes in splitpan with the color booster).

3. Apply the black shadow "color booster" to counteract the effects of the white "waterproofing" powder.

It sound like a whole lot of effort, and to tell you the truth it does add a substantial amount of time to makeup application process.

The good part is that on the top of my eyes, the color does actually stay on. In the rims, it usually will slip off by midday, but it still is one of the better waterproof lining systems I have tried. When I line my bottom lashes, the color actually will stay on (not the inner rims, but the bottom lashes).

I dislike the packaging it is so ugly (sorry Mally!) but the product is really pretty good. And guess how much is costs? A super affordable $25. I've had this since August, and I really do like it, and I carry it with me for touch ups.

So you go girl (I feel Mally would say that). I forgot that I had actually met her earlier this year at the CEW Beauty Awards events, and she was really nice and I truly believe she really cares about her products. These things matter to me.

So go out and buy it, it really is better than the Smashbox Waterproof Jet Liner.

Cat-eyed Kisses!

Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Eye Cream

2009-10-20T12:24:00.004-04:00

Augh. All of a sudden, I have been thinking... that I SHOULD be thinking about getting older. Step 1: Sunscreen (check!) step 2: eye cream. (Get on it, S!).

As I was dabbing on concealer a few weeks ago, I noticed that I had dry and rough skin under my eyes. I don't know if this is the result of using a new waterproof eyeliner -- which can be drying-- or if this was a result of my skin losing moisture as a result of aging (breathe, S, breathe). I immediately marched over to Bloomingdale's in the morning, prepared to spend whatever it took to help sort out my undereye situation.

I had tried out the Creme de la Mer undereye serum months ago-- and, even as a sample, I remember it being good. But I didn't want to go that route. On a whim and with 5 minutes to buy the cream and get out of there, I took an executive decision to try out the new-ish Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Eye $150.

I had tried a little sample over the summer, and remembered that it was good-- I wanted more, but I didn't have enough to really get the 'effects' of it. I bought it and here's what I've found:

I use this cream everyday and have been using it for about 6 weeks. Even though I am pretty sure that this should last me at least 150 days (so it's really like I just paid a dollar a day)-- aside from hydration, I haven't experienced amazing results. The good thing is sometimes I tap it on over my makeup too, and it really gives me a dewy fresher look.

Here's the official claim, " Obsidian minerals with specific anti-aging ingredients reduces dark circles and puffiness."

YES - my undereye region is no longer dry and it's more hydrated.

YES- it wears well with my makeup.

YES it brightens my eye area through the use of it's micro-particles.

I still have dark circles, and I haven't noticed that it tones down puffiness on the morning when I have goldfish eyes.

Oh the packaging is way too fancy. I know, I know, everyone loves a beautiful jar or bottle (me too) but they should've just made this cream $50 less expensive so I could justify buying it rather than feeling a touch guilty even writing about how much it cost.

DO I regret buying this cream? NO. I don't believe in underye miracles, and this cream allows me to have brighter under eyes that are hydrated and it mixes well with my makeup. It's OK-- I believe the word would be M-E-H, ladyfriends. If you have $150 burning a hole in your pockets and don't now where else to turn, here's an option. It's not great, but it's better than bad, but it's not good. Get it? Got it? Good.

Kisses!

Lipstick Queen Big Bang Illusion Lip Gloss by Poppy King (and Why I think it's the Single Best Gloss on the Planet)

2009-10-18T09:23:00.007-04:00

I thought it would be too lazy to headline this post, "All Hail the (Lipstick) Queen" -- speaking of lazy, where have I been all this time? Who knows, product testing, gallivanting, pouting my lips somewhere, slathered in Illusion Gloss...

Poppy King's Lipstick Queen Big Bang Illusion Gloss in Creation, $20 has changed the whole lip slip game for me.

Ratings are based on texture, stickiness, smell, longevity and compliments and color.

As a devotee of rosy lips, and possessor of sort of a long mange of a mane, the sticky factor on any gloss has to be low. Witness my hatred for MAC's Lip Glass. Illusion Gloss doesn't stick, it passes the hair test.

As a person who isn't as hydrated as one should be, especially in the long winter months ahead, I need a luscious gloss which leaves my lips feeling the sweet, slippery release of hydration for hours on end. Score 10,000 points on this front for The Queen, her glosses leave just enough product on for hours on end to make me feel un-dry.

As a woman who cannot stand cloying scents right under her nose-- and is especially averse to heavy, fruity or artificial coffee and toffee smells, score more points for this completely UNSCENTED lip gloss.

As for the color itself, Illusion is simply the prettiest most flattering neutral rosy shimmering pink on the market. And the ultimate test-- the one where people come up to you and ask you what you are wearing and where they can get it... well it passes with all the colors of the rainbow.

My friend, MS wears all the products from this line and she is the one who turned me on the The Queen. I can't wait to spread the glossy word from The Gloss Box. I can't love a lip product or shade more-- my day is not complete until I get this on my lips. Ack! It's my Creamy Crack. My Glossy Addiction. The best part of my day is reaching into my bag and retrieving the slim gloss.

OH MY Glossy Kisses!

I am bestowing upon it The Gloss Box seal of Most Awesome Things on Earth.

It's Spa Week!

2009-10-12T22:40:00.002-04:00

Facials, massages, hair removal.... oh my! It's spa week! Sign yourself up for amazing discounts on spa treatments in the following major cities: Denver, D.C., Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Boston, Detroit, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Nashville, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Virginia Beach and Toronto, Canada. Participating spas offers treatments for only $50!!!

Spa week is from October 12th through October 18th. Sign yourself up!

Hugs,

Guest Post: Give Me Volume or Give me Death!

2009-09-21T14:36:00.003-04:00

The Gloss Box Girls would like to present, the wonderful, wacky-- and will you believe, GORGEOUS Miss H.D. In her inaugural review of Kerastase's Spray Volumactive Volume Expansion Spray for Fine Vulnerable Hair, $34. HD has thick, fine hair, and beautiful features. Read on, and enjoy.

GIVE ME VOLUME OR GIVE ME DEATH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I yell out to the heavens while standing in the bathroom holding my latest acquisition in my right hand above my head like Excalibur. I bend over flipping my hair forward and begin spritzing the roots of my “undercoat” as I refer to it. I have thick, strong, straight, long, layered hair. A very heavy load of stubborn locks. I layer my hair in order to lighten the load. I do like the natural volume my hair has from layering. But if some volume is good…more has GOT to be better!! Just as those with long eyelashes will try out a lengthening fiber mascara (guilty) After all, I am American, and it is all about how much bigger and obnoxious can we make it.

As I spritz, careful to follow the directions…root to tip…I am sectioning off my hair…want to get full coverage. I have towel dried my hair, as instructed. However, as usual, the “undercoat” is a tiny but damp. I consider this…but don’t think it will make a difference. I spritz away at my hair with visions of being mistaken for a cast member of Hair Spray. Soon a whole new HD will be released upon New York! This, yes, this, Kertase, this could be the answer. Finally! My heavy stubborn hair will for the first time bow to my command! YES!! Sadly enough I did cackle…out loud… just a little bit though. But in my defense…this has been a long hard road and I have yet to WIN just 1 battle!

I decided that I had spritzed enough. Got the undercoat, the interior, then topcoat. I had done root to tip running my fingers through. I had just been upside down, so I had volume I would expect from doing a flip. But so far, nothing out of the ordinary. So I wait…and wait. I busy myself to get my mind off of it. I avoid the mirrors as I think that maybe it is a slow process and if I see every tiny millimeter, I won’t actually see a huge difference when it finally grows to the full bouffant. Much like weight gain. One day you realize that you have put on 5-7lbs without really noticing. Then wonder how you DIDN’T notice during the first 3lbs that something was going on! If I just strapped a 5lb dumbbell to my ass I would def notice it all day and feel weird. Even a 3lb….I would notice. But it is the slow trickle that goes unnoticed til it is a huge puddle. I recently had an “OMG! I have gained weight and lost muscle tone!” I didn’t realize the destructive path I was on til I hit rock bottom! Bat wings. The proof was right there…flappin away at me, and everyone in Giants Stadium, as I waved to some friends. The smile turned to a combo of horror, panic, disgust, and embarrassment as I saw this blob hanging down off of my upper arm just flapping away for all it was worth. I am ssssooo glad the camera was not on me at that time. I was mortified enough that everyone around me saw it. “Somebody grab a broom! There is a BAT in the stadium!! We have to ground it!!” (As I flap above the crowd looking for a rafter to go hang upside down from.) How did my bat wings get out? Here there are again! Loud and proud! So excited to show their stuff to the crowd. I think my bat wings secretly aspire to be famous. They were blowing kisses to the crowd and flapping with all of their might like they were Grand Marshal in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Which in the bat wing world, would be the highest honor! The talk of every Thanksgiving table. “Did you see those bat wings just flapping all the way down the parade route??” (mental note to self, ask The Gloss Box for tips on exterminating the BATS!!)

Anyhoo, the directions say to style as you normally would after spritzing. But like I said, my hair pretty much does it’s own thing so I don’t do anything other than wash and condition my hair. From time to time I will add mouse or a leave in conditioner if the ends are dry.

I walked around the streets of New York all day checking my hair in anything that would reflect. There was no visible difference. Foiled again. But perhaps I didn’t’ towel dry correctly. Yes! That could be it! My hair was a tiny damp…just a skoonch. Well then, I smell a DO OVER!

I plan my do over for the day I leave to fly home. My family lets me have it every time. If I have ridiculous volume, my mother will probably say something like “is this the new “in” thing in New York? Looks like you stuck your finger in a light socket.” My brother never misses a beat. He will do a little improv skit of me getting ready and styling my hair by electrocution. Nobody tells it to ya like your family.

I again do the old wash, towel dry, but this time make sure it is BONE dry before I spritz. I hop on the plane for my 1hour flight. I have a calm about me. No more checking every reflective surface. Ok, so I noticed the person beside me had picked up my reflection in their glasses. I did look at myself, using the persons glasses…that were on his face at the time. Yes I know… I weirded the guy out. We were situating things, had a tiny chat, I don’t remember noticing my reflection, that wasn’t my intention. I just remember the outcome. Awkward silence. Which broke the spell I had fallen under. I only wonder how long I was voguing in the dudes glasses before I noticed that he had noticed! It is a bad habit I developed when I was very young. My mom would wear mirrored sunglasses. I loved to make funny faces in mirrors. But the difference between the gentleman on the plane and my mom, is my mom would say “you are only talking to me cause you want to see your reflection, don’t you.” In mid nostril flare (one of my fav faces to make as a child, and as an adult, I am not gonna lie) I would say some cheesy line, something like, “Nnnoooo mom, I just wanna chat! Cause you are my mom, and we should….chat.” (during that sentence I would a different face contortions for every single word…not just the nostril flare alone)

The plane lands. I am hopping out of the seat I had moved to. It wasn’t a full flight so I thought it best to move after letting a total stranger, in on the weirdnesses that I think I hide…like the bat wings. But never notice that they are out until I have just made a total ass of myself. The least I could do was move. However my earlier embarrassment is no longer on my mind. Can’t wait to get to baggage claim and get ridiculed by my mother!! I am off!! I zip through the airport. Getting giddy!! I see her!! Any minute now she is going to lean forward and squint….any minute….ok….go….come on. DO IT! CCRRAAPPP!!! Nothing! We are on our way to the car and still nothing. One last attempt. We stopped by my brothers house and he didn’t do the electrocution dance he used to when I had sky scraper bangs in junior high. My dreams of grandeur dashed. Just like the bottle of Kertase will be when I get back to NYC. No volume here for the stubborn straight long think layered hair. My hair has beat yet another EXPENSIVE opponent. Save your cash and just go for the light socket treatment!

Parachute Hair Oil Wideo

2009-09-09T06:13:00.005-04:00

Click on the title to see the video!

This is a commercial for Parachute Hair Oil from South India. I have no clue what the exact dialogue is except for, "HI NRI boy". It' clearly an Indian setup, when the young handsome American Indian boy (check out his NYU shirt) goes back to India to fall in love with a spirited girls with lovely hair. The basis for life in India, where weddings are the central event of one's existence. What? I don't speak with utter and complete awe at the inanity of the situation. I don't I swear. I just want to show you how mainstream coconut hair oil is in India. It's big business. You can also pop over to Whole Foods and pick up virgin coconut cooking oil and put it in your hair. It's totally the same thing and probably doesn't smell as bad as Parachute! (They definitely don't show him dry-heaving when they hook up, which is what will happen if you don't wash this stuff out properly).

Let's just assume the girl gets her "NRI" boy by enchanting him with her hypnotic hair. It's a message we can all get behind.

Global Goddess Amla and Coconut Hair Oil Treatment

2009-09-09T05:03:00.005-04:00

I have so much to say about hair and coconut oil, so these posts may be multi-parters.

Nothing could incite more fear in me growing up than seeing my mom pull out a brilliant blue bottle of stinky gross Parachute brand coconut oil from India to massage into my hair. I would fight and throw a tantrum, but she insisted for shiny beautiful hair, I had to have this oil on for hours. It was a total punishment. One time, I was even mortified because I had to go to school with oil in my hair! In India, this would unremarkable. There, girls have to wear the same hairstyle to public school (I am not kidding!)-- and to go with a hair full of oil is just normal. eeeeyuck! Think of the social torture in our American society.

Fast forward 20+ years, and I look back at my gorgeous hair from childhood, which shines brilliantly, even in those old faded photographs. I guess there was something to be said for all the coconut oil torture that I went through.

I recently got the urge to massage my head with oil, (probably hoping to recapture those days of healthy hair before I decided that I needed to be a light brunette), when I came across a bottle of Global Goddess Amla and Coconut Hair Oil Treatment, $45.

Global Goddess is a line put out by Shalini Vadhera, a South Asian makeup artist-- who is bringing back the traditional beauty ritual of oiling up the hair to make it stronger, thicker and richer. Her hair oil is a blend of coconut and Amla extract (Amla is the Gooseberry, BTW)-- which is rich in vitmain C. She also made an effort to cover up what I think is the offensive smell of coconut oil.

Quick facts on coconut oil: Coconut oil is the only natural oil that can actually penetrate the hair follicle and improve it. It has so many healthy benefits, from being one of the only oils that can boost energy when used in it's unprocessed form to being an excellent hydrator for the skin -- ok end of quick facts-- you can start your own coconut oil appreciation society if you're so inclined.

Anyway-- I used the Global Goddess hair oil on myself-- I used almost 1/4 of the bottle on my long hair, combed it through with a wide-toothed comb and set my hair in a turban for a couple of hours. In fact, I watched the whole Sex and the City movie (Part 2 of which they were filming all weekend on Perry Street, FYI if you are an insane SaTC fan) and a few episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm (I just found out we had HBO). Afterwards I shampooed and conditioned per usual. I think I should have rinsed and repeated, because I don't think I throughly washed out all the oil-- but it was OK for me o have slightly greasy hair today because I felt my hair was in fact softer and shinier.

This product is a blend of so many different things, but it was nice to have a pleasant-smelling coconut oil experience. The ingredients list sunflower oil, grape seed and Neem oils, along with fragrance and other stabilizers. I find that I can tolerate the impurity because it's a tradeoff between that and the evocative smell of my everlasting repulsion to coconut hair oil. I plan to use this every time I have a whole day off (like Labor Day)-- to sit around and just pamper myself with these treatments. I am also going to try and use this as a skin moisturizer, and I'll let you know how it goes.

All in all, I will recommend this product, especially to first-time oilers. I see a difference in my hair (and I hope it last through a couple of washings).

Although... I may have to try a bottle of Parachute again! I just watched the most convincing commercial... more on that soon!

For now, beautiful, luxurious kisses!

Fresh Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15

2009-09-01T08:32:00.006-04:00

A rose by any name should be sweet. I love anything with rose. I went so far as to think I had the skillz necessary to make a rose flavored cake with rose icing for G's birthday. Master Fail.

Anyway-- I am still attracted to anything pink and rosy-- and I was so excited when I walked by the Fresh store and saw that they were now offering a rose tinted version of their best-seller lemony Sugar Lip Treatment. I am always told this is THE MOST AMAZING thing in the world. And I seem to buy it over and over thinking I am missing something by not thinking it's wonderful beyond belief. And I am always underwhelmed.

I will go against the grain and say I had never been a fan of the sugar lip treatment because I always found it to waxy and a little boring for my lips. It's like it just sits there. Well guess what ladies? The rose tinted one does the exact same thing. It goes away because it's not a treatment, it's a coating. And it's soothing and all, but neither this nor the original make me feel like my lips are being healed.

The one good thing about this is the SPF 15 and the slightly heightened lip-color effect. Texture and consistency are so heavy though-- I feel it never really soaks into my lips.

A rose-tinted coat of beeswax for your lips. It's like a $22.50 petroleum-free chapstick in better packaging (and I do love the RECYCLABLE packaging on this).

So this rose disappoints, I would NOT recommend this product to anyone because it's just nothing special. Don't be hypnotized by the amazing packaging and cool steel twisty lip bullet.

Benefit's Benetint Rose Gloss is MUCH MUCH MUCH better. If you're a rose addict like me, get that one instead.

Forewarned kisses.

Giorgio Armani's Eyes to Kill

2009-08-23T09:22:00.005-04:00

Who doesn't want a mascara with a James Bond name. Marketing genius. Stealthy lashes? NOT exactly. Honeys, you wear this and people will notice your lashes-- but it's not gross or thick at all. Does it look awesome? YES!

Here's an instance of something that looks and works great that was recognized by those around me before me myself and I. Check out this anecdote and see why I went ahead and bought this gorgeous not-so-secret weapon.

Scenario 1.

I was sitting and coating my lashes in a sample of Eyes to Kill by Giorgio Armani, $28 in Steel Black in front of MS, and she immediately called her husband to go and pick some up for her before the stores closed. She wore it the next day and I couldn't get over how open her eyes looked, even though I could see she wasn't wearing any eye liner. She looked great in her new mascara. I tossed my sample back in my purse and went on with life. She has looked amazing every day since.

And yet, I was unmoved and went on to try the Exceptionel de Chanel mascara with disappointing results.

Scenario 2.

I ran out in a rush to meet my friend BC for her birthday noodle celebrations (don't ask). And I wanted to to tell her I was so sorry for being late. But instead-- she stopped me and told me my eyes looked amazing-- my lashes to be specific. I had pulled out the sample that I had all but forgotten about in the cab on the way over. I finally felt that I needed to run, not walk to return the Chanel mascara and buy Eyes to Kill instead.

For $28, it is almost the exact same price as Chanel, with a no-fuss brush. It's beautiful and volumizing and lush-ifying and it doesn't stress me out if I need to put it on in a cab (unlike the Exceptionel de Chanel, which would require a suregeon's steady hand to apply in a NY cab).

Anyway, now I am armed with one of the top mascaras on the market -- the perfect little oomph for my makeup arsenal. A lot of places have samples of it because it is still new, so you should definitely go and check it out.

Oh and one last thing to go with the marketing genius of my new favorite mascara: The tube itself is metal and feels like the cold steel of high-grade weapon in your hands. The experience in total is so sexy...

From New York, with Love.

Sebastian Light- Excuse me? Do you love me only because you're having a good hair day?

2009-08-22T07:29:00.004-04:00

One of the coolest things about my new-ish living situation is my utter adoration of my roommates. I have always been in the camp of "don't live with friends"-- but I've had luck on my side and gotten on swimmingly with roomies, new and old, like JC in LA and RJ in NY-- and they are among my favorite people in the whole wide world.

I think my in-love-with-life attitude, even at this lovely early hour on a Saturday, is the result of getting up to um, wash my face-- and seeing how GREAT my hair looks this morning. It's hot, sticky and humid, and I don't like to sleep with the AC on... I didn't exactly style or blow dry, and yet my mane looks wild and soft-- just the way I like it! So one of the great things about living with RJ is that she had so many products to try-- one of them being the Sebastian Light Shampoo & Conditioner- and although prices vary-- it's safe to say an 8.5oz bottle is going to run you about $13 each.

I remember in the 80s and 90s that Sebastian products were everywhere-- and I used them and always thought they were too heavy for me. This new formulation is so weightless, smells amazing and leaves your hair with a soft, touchable shine. Some days I don't blow dry (because I have this combination of color-treated, dry wavy hair)-- and I can almost guarantee that my hair is going to look bad-- it gets fritzed, crunchy and just plain unappealing. Whenever I have used the Sebastian Light products-- even just the conditioner for that matter-- my hair has a quiet energy with a distinct softness and touchability. These are all words you would hear in a Pantene commercial, I know-- but Sebastian Light helps my hair be the hair that I want to have. It's natural, it's not heavy and it has that soft factor that's hard to achieve when you've gone blonde and back so.many.times. Even when I've styled it, it always turns out to be my 'good hair day.'

And I've said it before-- when my hair looks good, it's impossible not to feel like you're so happy and in love with life and living.

Happy, Shiny Kisses!

A Lifetime Burning

2009-08-21T13:19:00.005-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of doing the makeup for a wonderfully witty playwright, Cusi Cram. She was being photographed for her new play running at the prestigious 59 E. 59th Primary Stages Theater called A Lifetime Burning through September 5th.

Meeting Ms. Cram was so wonderful, and she gave me tickets to her play. I took my lovely friend AW, and we were thrilled to 1) See an amazing 90 minutes of theater. Her play featured a wardrobe from Saks, an amazing set (decorated just the way I want my Mulberry Street apartment decorated) and most importantly, a funny dark and contemporary comedy. AW is a writer and I am picky about what I find entertaining-- so let me tell you how much we laughed and enjoyed the play. We walked back to China(town) from the Upper East Side and spent the whole time praising the acting skills, the wit and charm of the play. I don't go to the theater often, but this is one of those great experiences that has whetted my appetite for more. 2) We sat behind Jon Hamm-- he of MadMen fame and the boyfriend of the play's star, Jennifer Westfeld.

Cusi came in with beautiful cheekbones, playful freckles and a sophisticated ponytail. She wanted to maintain the look of a serious playwright, but there was no hiding how pretty she was. We kept everything very simple for her: a light moisturizer, such as Oil of Olay's Olay Complete SPF30 sunscreen, a light dusting of Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals in medium beige (the pink tones in the medium beige complemented her pink-gold complexion). The beautiful thing about freckles is that they should be seen, not covered up because they add so much character to the face. We dusted her lids with Bare Escentuals Sheer Radiance-- a very subtle shimmer that you can use anywhere on the face. On the lids and under the brow, they sculpt the eyes and actually highlight the cheekbones. Keeping it more or less natural, we softly rimmed the tops and bottoms of her eyes with a richly pigmented dark shadow-- to give a soft eyeliner effect. Topping it all off with some mascara, and coloring her lips in with a pink lip liner which was the same color as the inside of her lip. The finishing touch was a light glaze of lipstick.

She looked pulled together and so pretty-- I felt good that she looked so good!

She was off to be photographed for the New York Times. The set of her new play (which is sophisticatedly modern, feminine and funny) features a oft-referenced piece by her furniture-maker idol, Eva Zeisel (the designer of the coffee table peeking out in the foreground in the shot above).

The play is about 2 sisters, one of whom has re-written her past and sold it as a memoir (for a fabulous advance) to a publishing house, only to be confronted by her sister-- who demands an explanation.

Here's the best part: If you're under 35, it's only $20! Trust me, it feels better than going to the movies. Click here to get all the details.

Go see the play!

Kisses!

Exceptionnel de Chanel Mascara.

2009-08-17T07:54:00.003-04:00

The power of the eyes, a good brow and some fabulous lashes cannot be overstated. Nothing speaks volumes about one's taste level without money or manners than a well maintained and enhanced eye area.

I have the brows down (haha to anyone who knows me)-- and the lashes (merci a DiorShow) were doing fine... Until I went out and decided to get a new mascara.

My choice happened to be Exceptionnel de Chanel in Smoky Noir, $28. What makes it exceptional (feel the disdain dripping off my words) is the brush and application method. The brush is this 6-sided (6 is the devil's number. Not a coincidence). Three little rubbery-spiky sides and 3 textured flat sides which still create an overall thin brush head. I was instructed to paint my lashes from the top and then go back from the bottom and paint them up.

I tried it in the store and it was ok, so I went ahead and bought it (they have a 6-sided trail brush at the counter, and it worked ok THAT DAY).

I took it home and have been having nothing but problems with it.

First of all, there is too much product on the brush. I believe my in-store trial worked because I had very little product on the brush (it was just a little trial brush). The actual product : Once you coat your lashes, they automatically separate into 14 very distinct points, and you spend about 3 minutes trying to comb them out. I have very long, very sparse lashes, and I would NOT recommend this product for anyone else who is similarly blessed. If you wipe off the product with every use, you could potentially get nice lashes (you rich little witch, you.) Who has the time and dinero for this, I ask.

Secondly, I have noticed that even if you do manage to comb out your lashes, if there is humidity in the air, this mascara changes and separates! Because of the ridiculous design, I have to take the utmost care to make sure my lashes are combed out--- SO! The other hot, sticky, August day I was looking in a mirror--- and I saw my mascara had turned on me! What a jerk. It's not called clumping, it's more like dissent. All the lashes start huddling together after I combed them into separated submission, and I could only blame the humidity (through a highly effective process I call "Placing the Blame").

Thirdly, the brush makes a MESS. You can't use it as a smudging tool (which I sometimes do in a rush) because it is leaves distinct grid marks on your face on account of being so spiky and stylized. Give me a good old pipe cleaner, I say.

And you can easily mess up your eyeshadow etc. because it sneaks it's way in between my lashes while I am applying it to the base and touches my lids. That perverted little piece.

I will say I get length and I get curling-- but it's all too much. It's a hassle. I have exactly 45 seconds to apply mascara in the morning, not 3 minutes. I am going to try and break up with this mascara and see if I can get back with DiorShow.

Goodbye!

Thevi Eyeshadow Giveaway

2009-08-10T08:45:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday! The winner of our Thevi eyeshadow giveaway is KIMBERLY. Thank you for all your comments and email submissions. We loved how popular the giveaway became. Lots more coming up. For now KIMBERLY gets to enjoy her beautiful chocolate shadow for smoky eyes and as an eyeliner. Loves!

Kisses and Hugs

S & G

Divine Super Glitter Nails! (They're Art)

2009-08-09T16:04:00.004-04:00

Hey Laaaaaaaadies! Guess what I love aside from Hello Kitty, cupcakes, puppies and boys. Crazy nail art! No, seriously, I am so down with the Japan-y fabulousness super cool kawaii sexy fun crazy cool things. My latest obsession is CalGel and Japanese Nail Art.

I met a girly who had a super cool gradient ombre manicure, and I couldn't get over how unique, yet wonderfully clean and healthy her nails looked. She said she had had her manicure for over a month and it looked great. She told us that it was the result of a technology perfected by the Japanese called CalGel-- layer after layer of a gel is applied to your nails, then set with a UV-B light in whatever color, glittery fabulousness and with whatever art your heart desires.

Ms. MS (my cutie pie and super stylish and totally experimental friend) and I scheduled an appointment at Sakura Nail Spa in the Lower East Side as soon as we could. When you descend into the gloriously zen and refreshing environment, you are instantly met with a friendly hello and led to your appointment. I was offered hot or cold tea, and then the treatment began. I had a lovely nail artist, who listened to all my concerns, answered all my questions and was totally patient with me while I endlessly debated between, bows, hearts, stars or HELLO KITTY!!

In the end, I went with a graded violet tip which blends into clear polish (imagine a french manicure with ombre tips) with a coat of pink glitter (it's all very subtle. Subtley awesome!)-- and then-- for the grand finale (!) I topped off my ring fingers on both hands with iridescent purple star confetti. I kid you not, the entire look is tacky wonderful. You don't need jewelry, my crazy nails are my jewels.

I loved Sakura Nail Spa. MS and I had the best time. Know that you MUST book ahead of time because it's a 4 hour service. I will tell you it's the cleanest, nicest, most affordable spot I have been to (even for regular manicures and pedicures, which are very well-priced at $12 and $26 respectively). More and more people are warming to the idea of Japanese nail art. I am definitely emboldened by the fact that I went out and got these slightly wild nails-- so much better than my boring neutral manicures that I keep to maintain a polished (no pun intended) look in between regular visits.

My service was a little pricey at close to $65 (the price depends on the intricacy of your designs-- and starts at $40)-- but I hope it's worth it. If you think about it, I spend about $14/every 2 weeks for a manicure that chips within days. The CalGel is supposed to last for at least 3 weeks and even more if you maintain it. Plus! The best part is you only have to go for touch ups-- which are about $20. I believe I've cut down on my overall nail-care budget, and I've totally gotten to dip into a little more funky look. I can't wait to get crazy argyle nails in October. Oooooh or Cheetah nails... or a full set of ANYTHING YOUR HEART DESIRES (I kid you not, there are thick magazines straight from Japan of all types of nail art ideas, including 3-D fruits, houndstooth patterns, crystals, script-- your imagination is the limit).

Sakura Nail Spa in NYC has another location uptown in the Upper East Side. This is going to be such an indulgent experience. I can't wait to show off my new brassy and sassy nails all over town and the gauge reactions. My artistically inclined friends love them, and my more conservative friends think they're outrageous. I swear, it's hot.

Kisses to Sakura and Nail Art.

Super Kawaii Kisses!

Spend the day at Exhale Spa...

2009-08-06T16:54:00.005-04:00

I love a good day at the spa... especially at a fancy luxurious spa! If you book any treatment at the Exhale Spa at the Gansevort Hotel (18 Ninth Ave., at 13th St.; 212-660-6733), you get an all access pass to the fabulous spa, which includes hot and cold soaking pools at the dimly lit, red-lacquered "water lounge," the co-ed steam room, and the very nice products in the locker room's showers. Is this expensive you ask? Not really! You can get a eye de-puffing treatment for $20 and a light manicure for $15, and then spend the rest of day luxuriating...

The only catch is that you need to make the appointment the same day you go, meaning call the spa between 7:30AM and 8:30AM to ensure that you get a spot. In addition, all Exhale Spas in the city and Bridgehampton are offering a coupon for 25% off any treatment and complimentary mind body class! I have taken the core fusion class, and it is fantastic! You will get the work out of your life. I was sore for 3 days! Anyways, I'll be at the spa this weekend. ; )

Hugs,

L'Oreal Infallible Lip Color

2009-08-06T05:00:00.001-04:00

Being Infallible can be tough. I try to do as many right things as possible-- like the taped-up fortune I see everyday, "Do as much right as possible and you will please some and astonish others." I love wise sayings from cookies. I know the right thing to do right now is to tell you how much I don't like L'Oreal's Infallible lip color in #400 Coral.

The very sleek and slim packaging will make you look like a chic 1950's Manhattanite lighting up a ciggie; It's shaped like a lighter, the chrome-gleamed outer layer doubles as a mirror, while the Infallible lip color itself is applied in 2 stages by twist up bullets which flank the 2 sides. One side contains that actual coral lipstick, which you apply to dry lips and allow a gap of a minute to let it 'set'. The second bullet contains a 'sealant' which is supposed to moisturize your lips. You are allowed to reapply this second coat as much as you like throughout the day. All in all, the packaging is very clever, functional and chic. Hip Hip Huzzah to the packaging team and their large budgets.

Now. The product itself. First, let me say that I would rather go to a department store and pay $5 more for a lipstick rather than guess at a color at the drugstore and be stuck with something that I don't really want to use. The Coral color is essentially an orangish-red. Unflattering on even the supreme-est of super models. The formulation in the first coat is so drying, that my luscious big lips started to shrivel as the longwear portion of the lipstick began to set. The moisturizer does indeed wet the pucker, but it still was such an overdone look--- perhaps just the color mixed with the intense formulation turned me off of it all... And don't even get me started on what I consider the unacceptable taste and smell of all these drugstore lipsticks. Instantly, I am transported to junior high when I would spend hours at Long's Drugs figuring out how I was going to get my mom to buy me Glints for my hair (preferred shade: Garnet) AND Toast of New York. Stick me in a Hole T shirt and drop me off at a Nine Inch Nails concert, why don't you.

Anyway here's the deal: I won't slam this product off my list forever, because it definitely has staying power. I couldn't get it off without some serious oil-based remover. So maybe, if we can get some testers up in these drugstores, and if can stand the taste and smell-- then maybe, just maybe it would be worth dropping $9.99 on this thing and slathering it all over your lips. I may never walk down that road because I don't know when I would need insanely intense infallible coverage (ever) because I believe it beautiful but approachable lips... but who knows! Maybe one day, I'll decide to clown it out and want a stay-put red pout that lasts 16 hours. Weirder things have happened.

Bobbi Brown Glitter Gloss. It's Better Than Bad. It's Good.

2009-08-05T23:23:00.002-04:00

No way would you ever call me conservative! Ok except for my sort-of inflexible attitude towards the importance of Thank You notes. And the way it bothers me when people don't know how to eat soup. And perhaps the fact that I bought my sister the book called Tiffany's Table Manners for Teens and I used to quiz her on it so she could have a leg up on politeness which can never be too overrated in society.

So maybe my resistance to Bobbi Brown's Glitter Lip Gloss in Rave, $19 was rooted in this internalized conservatism. It is, after all, a very glitter-flecked merlot gloss-- looking like something that should accompany Punk Revival Barbie instead of a girl staring 30 6 months off into the future.

I finally built up the courage to stick my finger in the palette and apply the glitter gloss to the often-referenced big mouth. To my surprise, the glitter was not offensive and didn't make me feel like I should be surreptitiously drinking Jaeger shots before a night where I was destined to end up grasping for the cold tile in the bathroom. Instead, I had a sophisticated grape-y color on my lips, giving me a darker look than I am used to-- but I can't say I didn't like it. I did, however notice I was leaving behind a subtle glitter trail on every glass I sipped and I had to reapply a couple of times. Dab on, I should say.

A quick lesson the difference between glitter, shimmer and shine. Glitter is little flecks of sparkly particles, usually mica, and you can clearly see that there are millions of individual little pieces in your gloss. Shimmer is a pearlescent finish which glimmers -- often iridescent. Shimmer is when you see different colors in different lighting and at different angles-- such as a pink dead on and then white-ish finish in the light. Frosted lipsticks which were popular in the 1980s are a predecessor to the modern shimmer gloss. Shine is just straight up lacquer! The bright reflective surface is just the light bouncing back at a highly reflective surface. I shouldn't be able to break this down so clinically. We'll launch into a comment on "this is one of the reasons I don't have a boyfriend" in 3... 2... 1...

Anyway let's go back to the matter at hand. Bobbi Brown did not do us wrong with her glitter gloss. Yes it's a silly thing, and not an essential, but definitely a playful and slim little square case that's OK if you aren't afraid to stick your finger in it. Your Fun time friend. Now... I can't wait to wear it to the next glam event and maybe, just maybe, trick a boy into kissing me with it on. I'll be marking my territory with glitter and no one else will want him for the night. Excellent plan, S. EXCELLENT plan!

GLITTERY delight Kisses!

Thevi Cosmetics Giveaway!!!

2009-08-05T09:11:00.006-04:00

S and I are huge fans of Thevi Cosmetics! We had the pleasure of meeting Thevaki a few months ago to learn more about her line. Finally a line of cosmetics made specifically for women with darker skin tones! Her collection boasts an impressive range of colors and products, from mineral pressed powders to eyeliners, shadows, foundations, and lipstick. I have been using her line for the past couple months and love it!

For a chance to win this week's Thevi Cosmetics giveaway - Matte Shadow - Dark Brown (#216) - the perfect color to give you that sexy smoky eye, post a comment below (i.e., I would like to enter the Thevi Matt Shadow - Dark Brown (#216) Giveaway). We will announce the winner next Monday! To learn more about Thevi Cosmetics visit thevicosmetics.com/ and check out her fantastic blog!

XO,

S & G

Pacifica Perfume in Malibu Lemon Blossom Scent

2009-07-30T10:36:00.007-04:00

If you grew up in the 80's you definitely owned a bottle of Malibu Musk! It was absolutely totally the coolest fragrance to wear! Ooooo, Ooooo, Malibu! You're looking like super star! ha ha! Check out the video! I've been obsessed with fragrances since I was a little girl. My mom, sis and I have a huge stash of scents! It must be an Indian thing, because every other indian girl, mom, grandma has a large collection of scents. These days I'm really getting into solid perfumes. I am always on the go in NYC, and need a scent that won't accidently spill all over my pretty handbags. I was recently in San Jo, with my sis J, and we popped into the Sephora at Oakridge Mall. While wandering the aisles, I discovered a line of fabulous solid scents from Pacifica. I love scents that transport me to a tropical beach getaway, and these scents definitely do the trick! Pacifica was started by a couple in Cali, who came up with the idea after driving home from a surfing trip. Love it! Their products are made from the finest, consumer safe and sustainable raw materials, including natural ingredients and essential oils. The products are free of parabens, propylene glycol, phthalates and lead wicks.

I love the Pacifica Malibu Lemon Blossom solid perfume. It smells dreamy beachy delicious! Sweet lemon blossoms, lemon peel, flowering Angel's Trumpet, fresh herbs and dry grass drift in the salty ocean air... How lovely is that! The solid perfumes are made with organic soy and coconut wax. The packaging is very small so you can throw it in your handbag, back pocket or keep it at your desk at work. The solid scents come in other dreamy scents like Hawaiian Ruby Guava, Brazilian Mango Grapefruit, Lotus Garden, Egyptian Bergamot Rose, Bali Lime Papaya, French Lilac, Madagascar Spice, and Avalon Juniper. These scents are so fresh and uplifting. Rub a little on your wrists, on your decollete and behind your ears and you are good to go! It will surely bring a smile to your face or someone else's. ; )

The scents retail for $9! Fantastic! A perfect mini gift for yourself or for a friend. I can't wait to try out more of the scents. I love everything about these solid perfumes except the staying power. After about 45 minutes you will feel like you need to reapply. You can still smell it, but the scent has less intensity. It may just be my body makeup, because scent don't tend to stay on me for too long. Has anyone tried the the Pacifica solid scents? Let me know about your experience. : )

Treat yourself to a mini solid perfume treat!

Hugs,

Nail Lacquer Resource: Polish Addict!

2009-07-29T08:36:00.006-04:00

Aside from makeup that is colorful, I love perfume and NAIL POLISH. Weirdly, I have been attracted to really outrageous colors and styles. Think polka dots and 3D bow-covered nails. Sounds tacky but there's something kind of cool and kawai about it all. Anyway --- here's one of my favorite polish-hunting sites-- complete with a (competent) writer and well-taken photos of different nail lacquers on the nails themselves, cool brands. Stephanie categorizes by color and brand-- a total go-to site for when you're seeking out something totally outrageous!

PS: I am currently wearing a matte version of Bermuda Shorts by Essie with a shiny topcoat on my toes and it looks spectacular. I would best describe it as the shade of purple magenta you would only find in Bali or the early 1990s. Like Kool Aid purple drank. Or frangipanis.

Think Tan Slimshine Lip Color. 5 Star Color.

2009-07-27T10:34:00.003-04:00

Ok Brown Girls-- you know who you are. Admit it: You love a little of that reddish brown lipstick. Who amongst us hasn't used A Toast of New York, Blackberry from Revlon, or picked up a shade of the darker maroon glosses from Chanel. And don't get me started on Vamp.
Those colors are often not the most flattering, but for some reason we just can't seem to quit them. Mac had a great color released for the 2008 Fall season called Think Tan. The only problem is that it's discontinued. You can still hunt online for some new bullets of this awesome sheer reddish-brown lipstick. I can't quote you price because you might have to get it on eBay. But don't pay more than $18.
I like light colors, but I as soon as I slipped this color on my lips, I saw the potential color could bring to my makeup wardrobe. I really feel this is the perfect 'dark' lipstick for my makeup arsenal. Get it before it's all gone...

Bigelow Protein Enriched Conditioner. No.

2009-07-27T09:16:00.003-04:00

Oh this weekend has been filled with excitement! G met her precious Gerry on the street and I... well I had a pretty decently happy weekend. A huge part of me having fun, and I am not ashamed to say this--- is having a great hair and makeup. Look at my style idol J to the L-O. She shows up for her surprise 40th birthday party in full Oscar's regalia. Surprise my foot! Who just, "goes out for dinner" looking like you're accepting your lifetime achievement award for being a fly girl. Google it, you'll see what I mean.

Anyway great hair and makeup are directly proportional to the amount of fun I have on any given night. My hair this weekend was just OK! And I blame it on this new conditioner. So in an effort to get the most bang for my buck, I moved away from my absolute fave Oribe conditioner and went for a $12 bottle of C.O Bigelow Protein Enriched Conditioner. Apparently it is good for color-treated hair-- a must for my dry and slightly damaged hair.

Here's the deal: I don't like the cheap, fruity Bath and Bodyworks grade smell, and the conditioner weighs my hair down on the second day. So disappointing. How am I supposed to stretch out my blowouts if the second day makes me feel like I am wearing a greasy weave on my head? Not having it. J LO would not accept such behavior from her wig (PS It's all natural hence the scalp oils). Perhaps in the winter, we can revisit this-- but for now, it's too greasy-- and don't get me wrong, I am not afraid of a little oil in my champu. Oils make the world go round.

I can see the soft, but not feeling the silky or the shine with thi s too-heavy formulation. I would rather pay a little more and have better hair!!!

The quest for the shiny, soft luxurious and AFFORDABLE conditioner continues.

Kisses!

G and Gerard Butler...

2009-07-26T20:19:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, P and I were brunching at Tea and Sympathy in Greenwich Village. Later we went for a stroll in the West Village to burn off some of the English Breakfast. I was wearing my lovely new green Hunter Dixon top, darling little lucite green rose ring from Darling, and mac liner in Pearlglide Eye Liner in Bankroll (a rich shimmery green with a pearl-metal look). P and I are were talking a bunch of nonsense like usual, when who should walk right in front of us???? Gerard Butler! Ahhhhhh!

I looked at P, and she looked back at me and we screamed silently! I decided this was my opportunity to meet my dream man! We had brief chat and P took our picture! Ladies... if you think he is handsome on screen, he is even more handsome in person! P's exact quote, "your life will be divided in two parts... your life before you met Gerard Butler and your life after you met Gerard Butler." Love it! Ha ha! ; )