Beauty Wonkette

Cheap thrills!!! Go Down Deep...

2011-04-01T07:49:00.000-07:00

With increasing frequency, Beauty Wonkette comes across news reports that happily report that the economic downturn is over and that everything is BEE YOO TEE FUL. Ah well, Beauty Wonkette does wish somebody would explain all of this to her ever dwindling bank account and ever increasing debt. Either way, though, any true Beauty Wonkette is going to find a way to look fabulous. However, it definitely is a high priority to spend less doing it. And so, Beauty Wonkette is going to feature more - ALOT MORE - cheap thrills for recessionistas everywhere. So, my lovelies, here we go:

Beauty Wonkette has been testing products from Formula 10.0.06 (the line is available at Ulta). This one is definitely ahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif Beauty Wonkette fav.

When Beauty Wonkette was just a mini-me version of herself, much to Mama BW's dismay, she just loved making mudpies. Uh huh - Beauty Wonkette has been most fond of mud of a longggg time. Now that she's all grown up, she knows just how good a thing mud is! Now enter this face masque / mask . Besides the always-purifying mud, this mask also contains orange to hhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifelp tone the skin, bergamot for its antiseptic benefits, and sea salt to aid in banishing impurities for a clear, smooth, and balanced complexion. And, it smells sort of delicious. So, spending the extra 15 minutes, 1 to 3 times per week depending on your skin type, is a slam dunk for a brighter complexion. Beauty Wonkette would not mislead you! Your face AND everyone who looks at or touches it will notice the difference.

JUST $6.99 at Ulta, this baby definitely qualifies as a CHEAP THRILL

Go EAST my lovelies....

2011-03-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons why Beauty Wonkette loves her "real" job, but one biggie is that it affords the opportunity for lots of travel. And, in Beauty Wonkette's world, travel translates into SHOPPING. Yayyyyy shopping!!!

Any make-up artist will tell you that European pharmacies are a well-known treasure trove of otherwise elusive cosmetics. However, these days, take a close look at any face-painter’s kit and you’re bound to find something from Japan: teensy-weensy Q-tips, perfectly packaged blotting papers, or, complexion-perfecting products by Koh Gen Do.

Fashion week meant visits with a few old friends, including one well known New York-based stylist who is a recent convert to the line. Said she, “I was looking for an all-natural foundation and concealer in light of my pregnancy (HER pregnancy - Beauty Wonkette is MANY things, but PREGGO is NOT one of them, thanks be to god) —the things one reads on the internet can be so alarming! I discovered the foundation and concealer and couldn’t be more thrilled that something so good can be so good for you." She went on to explain that she dabs it on with a Trish McEvoy foundation brush and, Beauty Wonkette can bear witness to the fact that while it looks fresh and dewy, it provides great coverage.

That “dewy, fresh” coverage is made possible by Aqua Foundation’s “golden ratio” of 45% water, 35% emollients, and 20% powder. The mineral formula is based on deep-sea water from Rausu, Japan, and infused with White Birch Sap extracts to keep skin hydrated. I’ve always avoided foundation because, for lack of better words, it’s just too much. Too cake-y, too drying, too shimmery (“glow” can go very wrong)…even an overpowering eau de SPF is a deal-breaker. This foundation is just right. Beauty Wonkette doesn't generally do the foundation thing, but tried smoothing a tiny amount over her skin. Oh yessss, it gives the perfect—barely perceptible—amount of enhancement.

And, you certainly don’t need a beauty school degree to reap the benefits of “Moisture Concealer for Professional”. The compact includes two creamy, Jojoba and Shea Butter enhanced shades, plus a miniature, retractable brush for finger-free application. There’s even a built-in trough for blending the colors together. Perhaps the best news is that you don’t need to hop on a plane (although a trip to Tokyo would be nice…), Koh Gen Do is sold stateside at Barney’s and via their website. Even better is the fact that the concealer is 30% at the Koh Gen Do website, and they give lots of freebies when you order.

Beauty Wonkette is tapping her foot and wondering WHAT you are waiting for !!!

Beauty Wonkettes spies the Split Nail Polish Trend, The "V Gap"

2011-03-04T10:17:00.000-08:00

Okay, okay... Beauty Wonkette loves to look at this stuff, but her fingernails are usually bare. MMMMmmmm hmmmmm - Beauty Wonkette is a follower of the buff, buff, buff cult. Although BW DOES go all wild and funky with her toes :). ANYWAYYYY... this looks kinda cool, no?

London-based nail guru Sophy Robson is taking the lead on a new nail trend, a style she's christened the "V-Gap." An angular riff on the half-moon, the beauty of the look is its versatility: Keep it subtle with dark or neutral shades, like Robson's petrol blue-black V-Gap nails at Antonio Beradi's fall '11 show, or take it to the next level and channel Robson's own pink, studded V-Gapped talons.

Kate Somerville's Spring Skincare Secrets

2011-03-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette brings you legendary skin guru Kate Somerville's top three tips to update your spring skin and get a fresh face now.

Kate’s ultimate expert tips for getting beautiful spring skin now:

1. Sunscreen: "I recommend looking for sunscreens with ingredients that contain either physical or chemical blocks, and broad-spectrum protection, which means protection from all UV rays. One of my favorite forms of sun protection is mineral makeup. The minerals that comprise these powders protect against UV rays—they create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun and usually have an SPF of 15 to 22.”

2. Safe Tanning: "Use Somerville 360º Tanning Towelettes. These are simple-to-use, streak-free tanning towels that give your body a golden (not orange) glow. They deliver that beautiful color without the damage associated with tanning. This product is revolutionary because it’s a tanning towelette that’s clear. Just put it on and in two minutes you can put a white dress on. It’s not a cream, lotion or bronzer, so it won’t streak or rub off. It works with the proteins in your skin and gives the color you’d get in the sun. A fair-skinned person gets a different color than a darker-skinned person. You'll have a gorgeous glow in 4 hours. We also took out the parabens and added antioxidants so that it’s actually good for your skin. The tan lasts 7-10 days and you can layer it—do it two or three times and then maintain once a week.”

3. Commitment: "The most important steps to remember are exfoliate, hydrate, and moisturize. You should exfoliate one to three times a week. Look for a product that contains both physical and chemical exfoliators, but avoid natural physical exfoliants like pits or seeds—they are rough and can damage the skin; instead, look for a smooth bead. To hydrate the skin externally, look for products that contain hyaluronic acid—this ingredient can carry 1000 times its weight in water and bind it to the skin. To hydrate internally, drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in fatty acids. Avoid diuretics, like simple sugars and caffeine. Finally, moisturizing is vital to protecting and sealing in the hydration, and serves as a barrier for your skin. Look for a product that contains peptides or new stem cell technology that can really aid in healthy cell turn over and anti-aging.”

Beauty Wonkette believes that one good turn deserves another, and so, BW would be remiss if she failed to mention that Kate has added three new skin-savers to her immaculate line of products, and there’s something for everyone. ExfoliKate Acne is a revamped formulation of her best-selling exfoliator with tea tree oil and salicylic acid to help you fight breakouts, Clinic-To-Go is a fantastically packaged treatment that will rejuvenate your face and slough away any dull winter skin, and Cyto-Cell Eye Cream uses stem cell technology to help get rid of any wrinkles around the eye area.

Beauty Wonkette is really rocking the Clinic-To-Go pads! YOU should check out all Kate's new stuff. It's widely available at places like Sephora, but her site has more info. Go there first: http://www.katesomerville.com/

Get ready for Spring by getting a leg up

2011-02-22T15:52:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, there was a damsel in distress. "My thighs are too dimply," she cried into a mirror. "I would do anything to get rid of my cellulite!" No amount of exercise seemed to help.

Then, one day, her fairy godmother (aka Beauty Wonkette) arrived with a pair of magic pants. "Wear these Farmacell Milk Shorts to bed for at least two weeks," Fairy Godmother Beauty Wonkette said. "The fabric is made from milk proteins, and they're designed to moisturize your skin and smooth the appearance of cellulite while you sleep. And yes, they are supposed to be snug--compression helps trim your thighs."

The damsel was skeptical, but after just five days of testing, she was hooked. (She's still wearing them a month later.) "I noticed firmer, thinner thighs and a more toned butt," she gushed to her fairy godmother. "There's more space than usual between my thighs. They feel like bike shorts and I had no problem sleeping in them. I even wear them during the day, as shapewear under dresses and skirts." The shorts were so powerful, she purchased 3 pair so she would have them always.

They aren't cheap, but then dreams ever are. Still. Snag yourself a pair and live happily ever after. Find them here.

The end

Stressed? Depressed? PMS? Overindulged? Moody?

2011-02-22T15:17:00.000-08:00

Chances are that whatever it is that ails you, 21 Drops has an aromatherapy blend to soothe you. After extensive surveys and questionnaires, this company's founders identified 21 everyday woes that seem to plague every one of us at one time or another and came up with an aromatherapy blend to address them.

Beauty Wonkette loves the bright, rubbery, hi-tech packaging that houses each precise concoction of plant extracts AND you can tuck them neatly into even the slimmest makeup bag so you'll have 'em when you need 'em. Lucky Magazine called them LIFE CHANGING! Beauty Wonkette isn't prepared to go that far, BUT she does have a few favorites among the 21:

13 Carry On - Blended from rose flower oil, helichrysum flower oil, sandalwood wood oil, lavender flower oil and frankincense resin oil to help manage loss, ease sorrow and soothe the heart. The oils in this blend help settle the effect of emotional trauma on the nervous system. It’s intended to support the transformation from endings to new beginnings. It heals, encourages, restores and renews. Carry On helps you to persevere. You grieve. You let go. You move forward.

04 Hangover - Blended from juniper fruit oil, geranium leaf oil, lavender flower oil and cardamom seed oil to detox, refresh and revive. The oils in this blend stimulate the lymphatic system to help flush toxins from the body, dispel nausea, and ease water retention. This blend revives, soothes and purifies.

21 Inspire - Blended from cedarwood wood oil, sandalwood wood oil and black pepper dried fruit oil to release blocked energy, increase creativity and inspire action. The oils in this blend are transformative and enlivening. Inspire helps to spark productivity and crystallize vision. You inspire and are inspired. You are the driving force.

06 Passion - Blended from jasmine flower oil, rose flower oil, cardamom seed oil and sandalwood wood oil to help release inhibitions, stimulate affection and ignite passion. This blend is all about promoting playfulness, enthusiasm, exploration and an appetite for life. It is sensual. It is exhilarating.

11 De-stress - Blended from frankincense resin oil, lavender flower oil, ylang ylang flower oil and german chamomile flower oil to steady nerves, relieve tension and reduce stress on the limbic system. The oils in this blend are effective in countering situational irritation and angst. The 21 Drops De-Stress blend helps you to stay cool under fire, encouraging graciousness and diplomacy, balance and decisiveness. You are accepting. You are flexible. You are at ease.

Check them out and find your favorite....

http://www.21drops.com/

It's a TRAP !!!

2011-02-19T07:22:00.001-08:00

Eeeeeeek! It's a trap! A spin trap that is. Which is a good trap. Or so I'm told.....

It's all about free radicals. Huh? Unless you're an aging baby boomer who, thanks to Timothy Leary, has been left with synapses that don't quite fire like they should, you do KNOW that free radicals are not hairy people who stick flowers in guns when said guns are pointed at them. Fast forward to 2011 and anyone who has ever slapped moisturizer on their mug knows allllll about free radicals. Free radicals = B A D. Very bad.

Free radicals contribute to skin aging as unstable molecules that damage everything from cell walls to DNA. The good news is that now you can fight free radical damage anywhere you need it. With THIS:

YOUR BEST FACE Skincare (which is a very cool indy skincare line) has put out Antioxidants Concentrate, a new lightweight (VERY concentrated) skincare serum that helps you bring together powerful anti-aging antioxidants with fresh items at home for extremely effective and unique do-it-yourself skincare products.

One of the reasons Beauty Wonkette loves this stuff is that it is extremely versatile. Sure, you can use Antioxidants Concentrate on its own, but if you already have a regimen you aren't inclined to change, you can blend it with your favorite skincare creams, masks and serums to increase their effectiveness. It's really great to add to lotions for your neck, chest, hands, elbows and knees. Antioxidants Concentrate also makes a fantastic addition prior to or after spa services such as LED light treatments.

The stuff is based on 4 key ingredients: ferulic acid, vitamin E, lippchroman-6, and (yes!) SPIN TRAP. Most Beauty Wonkettes know all about ferulic acid and vitamin E. But, let's take a closer look at the other two key ingredients.

If they had a mascot over there at Your Best Face Skincare, it would be spin trap. This unique skin protector is like the superhero of antioxidants. Most antioxidants simply blast away at free radicals thus destroying the molecule in the process. Ahhhh but spin trap stabilizes free radical molecules without destroying them, thereby more effectively preventing damage.

Along with spin trap, Lipochroman-6 is a hallmark antioxidant used in almost every product YBF makes. Lipochroman-6 is a potent protector from two types of free radicals attributed to aging skin and damage: ROS (reactive oxygen species) and RNS (reactive nitrogen species) free radicals.

They also point out that if spin trap is an antioxidant superhero then vitamin E is its trusty sidekick! On it's own, vitamin E does a pretty good job fighting ROS free radicals. We already knew that. But, here's the bonus: it also pairs with many other antioxidants, increasing their effectiveness and recharging antioxidants such as ferulic acid. It is also well suited to naturally protect product freshness.

Now, you probably already know this, but Beauty Wonkette thought it would be just plain mean NOT to give a shout out to the ferulic acid in this quartet. Ferulic acid is a great free radical scavenger of ROS (reactive oxygen species), making it highly protective against UV-induced free radical damage that speeds the appearance of aging. It's found naturally in plants and is a compound that protects plants from UV damage during photosynthesis.

YBF Skincare is a very neat line that is definitely worth checking out. Each formula multi-tasks and is highly concentrated, saving you time and money. And, unlike other skincare lines who really sling the bull and insist that YOU SIMPLY MUST USE THEIR LINE AND ONLY THEIR LINE (god Beauty Wonkette HATES that), YBF's founders tell you that while their products work great on their own, they encourage you to layer them with other favorite products in your arsenal, which Beauty Wonkette thinks is very cool of them.

The Antioxidant Concentrate is $55 and, along with all their other stuff, is available online at the Skincare Shop.

I'll never complain about stress again!!!

2011-02-18T16:16:00.000-08:00

Okay, that's a lie. I will. Complain. About stress, enlarged pores, bad hair days, carbohydrate overload, stupid people, crappy skincare products, my boss, Congress, the President.... BUT, after being forced to do NOTHING for a week, and then being on limited duty for two more weeks, your prima Beauty Wonkette is currently craving STRESS! The stress of my "real" job, the stress of my (new, but still a pain in the ass) inlaws, the stress of my crazy family (nah, they're not new), the stress of standing on line behind an idiot at the (fill in your favorite blank)bank, supermarket, Department of Motor Vehicles... ALL of it - ANY OF IT ! BEAUTY WONKETTE WANTS IT ! BRING IT ON BAYY BEEE !

Whew. I'm so glad I got THAT out of my system! If Beauty Wonkette sounds crazy (crazier?), she has good reason. A few weeks back, Beauty Wonkette joined countless other victims of this Winter From Hell (but with snow and ice) and went FLYING across a patch of ice at a higher speed than she has ever achieved running. "Ohhhhhh poor dear. You fell!" NOOOOOOOOO. Beauty Wonkette refused to suffer the indignity of falling, so she bravely flexed her wrist and extended her arm. Oh yes, no flopping around on the ground for her (i.e. ME). But, alas, although Beauty Wonkette kept her dignity intact and gracefully broke the fall, Beauty Wonkette dislocated her shoulder. OOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! No, really...

Beauty Wonkette has a high threshold of pain. It never takes more than a couple of shots of really good tequila for Beauty Wonkette to march bravely into the waxing room for a full Brazilian. Oh, she winces a little. Ahem. But, she doesn't SCREAM. But, when Beauty Wonkette felt her shoulder separate and felt the (now out of the socket) bone hit the skin of her upper back, she did indeed SCREAM - just before passing out.

This led to a longer period of not being able to do a damn thing than Beauty Wonkette has ever experienced. EVER. There was no stress. Unfortunately, there was no anything. Hence the cravings for any kind of stress at all.

Bottom line: if you were wondering what the hell happened to Beauty Wonkette and why she wasn't posting, that's why. Bottom line postscript: do not try this at home.

Ciao, wonkettes!

Possibly the best eye firming treatment gel in the world?!?!

2011-01-19T20:54:00.000-08:00

This is one of those times that Beauty Wonkette is glad that she was too busy to sit down and post, because had Beauty Wonkette NOT been too busy and HAD posted when she was going to, then Beauty Wonkette would be correcting herself, pleading forgiveness, etc. etc.

WHAT the hell is this crazy woman going on about? you ask as you grumble under your breath that you do wish Beauty Wonkette would get to the damn point! Ok, ok - Beauty Wonkette hears ya...

Beauty Wonkette adores MLab's skincare line. In fact, the Anti Aging Serum is truly her hg, go to, just try and pry it out of my hands product. So, when the lovely folks over at MLab ran one of their 50% off specials, BW scooted over to the site, with her new hubby's amex in her hot little hand. When she arrived, she learned that MLab had come out with a new eye product (in addition to their eye cream that has been around from the start and which BW is NOT crazy about) that sounded very promising. It's called Sonic Tensor Eye Serum and it's truly supercharged, boasting that it's formulated with 72% active ingredients. That, and the fact that it sounds all space agey and reminded Beauty Wonkette that she wanted to be an astronaut when she was a mini Beauty Wonkette, AND the 50% off event (which is, sadly, over), AND the fact that the amex in her hand was her hubby's and not hers, all combined and led to a result that you have probably already guessed. Beauty Wonkette bought it.

Now, like so many of us, Beauty Wonkette seems to be on a constant quest for the perfect eye product. She's tried everything out there. EVERYTHING. For the past 18 months, she has remained (semi) faithful to Go Bare Skincare's RevitalEyez. It's lovely stuff at an unbeatable price, and also chock full of peptides, peptides, and more peptides. And, while Beauty Wonkette has strayed briefly, she always comes back to it. But, if only there was something that was just a little bit more FIRMING; something that could provide just a teeny bit more LIFT (short of duct tape, of course).

When the MLab package arrived, Beauty Wonkette raced up stairs, leaping over the dogs, and almost broke her neck because her bathroom isn't that big and, given her speed, she had trouble braking and almost slammed into a wall. And then she tried the magical new elixir. And, she exclaimed EWWWW YUCKY !!! At first blush, it felt kind of icky sticky. Admittedly, BW thought she felt some very definite tightening around her eyes, but when she looked in the mirror, she didn't see anything significant. She didn't expect to. After all, doesn't Beauty Wonkette always tell you that you have to give a product several weeks before you arrive at any conclusion? So, despite the yuck factor, which frankly isn't all that yucky in any case and which is no longer yucky about 10 minutes after you put it on, Beauty Wonkette soldiered on. Truth be told, she WAS going to post something less than complimentary about the stuff, though. She didn't though. Fast forward to today.

It has now been about 11 days since this stuff arrived. Although the bottle says to use it am AND pm, BW has been using it in the am and using her RevitalEyez stuff at night. When BW looked in the mirror today, she did a double-take! Even though BW was out partying last night and only got about 5 hrs sleep, her eyes looked incredibly OPEN. In fact, BW eyes looked so very open, due to the tightening of the skin from eyelash to eyebrow, that one just might think that some outside laser or scalpel yielding power had intervened!!! The stuff is that good. Now, Beauty Wonkette must warn you in advance - the stuff is NOT moisturizing. If moisture is an issue for you, you probably will have to use another product on top of this. It isn't an issue for Beauty Wonkette, so she's perfectly content using this alone in the morning and her RevitalEyez alone at night.

And, they all lived happily ever after. The end.

Sonic Tensor Eye Serum 95.00 USD

GBS RevitalEyez 19.99 USD

Tar Baby !!!

2011-01-13T21:42:00.000-08:00

TAR BABY?!?!?!? WTF?

No, no - not at all. You see, Beauty Wonkette recently discovered Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (Beauty Wonkette would have loved this line for its name alone!)and has been playing with their products. Now, as some of you have probably figured out, BW is really not all that big on make-up, but their are a few things that EVERY self-respecting Beauty Wonkette covets - great lip products, stupendous mascara, tinted moisturizers, fine powders that make you look air-brushed.... Hehe - good thing Beauty Wonkette is NOT that into makeup, eh? But, BW does digress.

The OCC product that is BW's current obsession is called Lip Tar. It's such an unlikely name for a truly innovative and awesome product. TAR BABY - at best, it connotes a sticky situation. At its worst - well, nevermind - who wants to go to that uglee place. However, having thought it through, maybe it isn't such an icky name after all.

What are some of the words that spring to mind when you think of tar? Permanent, heavy duty, thick, a glossy surface. Are you following? Ultimately, who doesn’t want a lip product that has a glossy shine and a long lasting formula that stays put? Well, my lovelies, Beauty Wonkette introduce you to Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics and their Lip Tar! This stuff is truly a beauty lover's dream.

A stunning new innovation in lip color, OCC Lip Tar combines the longevity of a lipstick, with the ease of application of a gloss. It goes on slick and moist, and dries down to a satin finish. Ultra-saturated in color, OCC Lip Tar contains an unprecedented amount of pigment, so a little goes a very, very long way. What you end up with is an intense, yet featherweight, layer of color that even stands up to the scrutiny of Hi-Def Video and Digital Photography, without ever looking (or feeling!) heavy. Meant to be mixed, OCC Lip Tars come in a range of colors (and black and white!) for a limitless selection of shades made by you! (Think makeup artist meets mad scientist). Just DO remember: a little bit of this stuff goes a very long way.

At $12.50 a tube, you can afford to mix madly....

Oh, yes, lest Beauty Wonkette forgets: OCC Lip Tar is 100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free, and is also free of parabens and other harsh preservatives. It is a simple, elegant formula that contains Hemp Oil, Peppermint Oil and Vitamin E. The result? OCC Lip Tar feels as good on the lips as it looks!

BOOM! chicka BOOM! chicka BOOM!

2011-01-11T18:16:00.000-08:00

OoOoOooooppps... sorry! Beauty Wonkette got carried away for a moment. But, the truth is, finding a cosmetic line that stresses a simple "one color fits all" approach to beauty AND attaches it to an insistence that there isn't anything wrong with being over 40 EXCEPT trying to look 18, makes Beauty Wonkette WANNA DANCE! BOOM! chicka BOOM!

Ok - here's the poop (so to speak). Cindy Joseph started out as a makeup artist, then launched a successful modelling career when she decided to stop camoflaging her gray hair (uh, yeah, her long, lovely locks are gray, but I think the modelling thing worked because the woman is SERIOUSLY gorgeous), and now, she has come out with an interesting and very simple beauty line that consists of just three pocket-sized twist-up sticks, perfect for tossing in your gym bag and dabbing on-the-go:

* Boomstick Glo: A deliciously hydrating olive oil and beeswax balm formulated by Cindy’s beekeeper friend in Hawaii that can be used on cuticles, lips or face. This one deserves a spot in even the most crowded stash!

* Boomstick Color: A berry hue for lips, cheeks and eyes that flatters all skin tones. Apparently, it’s based on a shade Cindy mixed at photo shoots and used on the full spectrum of celebs and models, from Uma Thurman to Naomi Campbell.

* Boomstick Glimmer: A subtle shimmer highlighter that can be used to accentuate cheekbones, brighten up the inner corners of eyes or layer on lips for a more dressed-up look.

Talk about a streamlined routine! Listen up my fellow wonkettes! These 3 little chubby stick have proved to be Beauty Wonkette's life savers on more that one occasion. They make you look good instantly – adding color and shimmer and softening lines on the spot.

I could go on, BUT Cindy Joseph does an awesome job of explaining her line, complete with video demos of her using each of the products on her own, clean face. If you, like Beauty Wonkette, are determined to embrace the simple AND look fabulous while doing it, visit the BOOM! by Cindy Joseph site and decide for yourself.

Beauty Wonkette makes her exit, happily dancing to her singing BOOM! chicka BOOM!

Look Ma, No Water!

2011-01-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

Even though Beauty Wonkette isn't a big sleeper, mornings around Beauty Wonkette's household can be a bit errrrrrr HECTIC (ok - BW confesses: some mornings, this place is a loony bin), and (BW confession numero dos) Beauty Wonkette doesn't always have time to wash, dry and style her hair. BESIDES, (excuse alert - but actually a true one)it's really not good to wash your hair EVERY day. And, (another excuse alert) with the time you save you could be doing something really important - like sitting down and having something that resembles a healthy breakfast (with hubby even!). Okay - time to cut the crap.

In reasonably warm weather, Beauty Wonkette has zero problems leaving the house with wet hair and letting it air dry. Yeah, sure, it looks a little "undone", but ain't that secksy??? Besides, if something more "adult" is in order, BW can always do a ponytail or a loose chignon or something. But in this freaking cold? Unless you want your head to turn into an ice cube, there is no way any of us are going out there with wet hair.

That's why we jumped at this product from Brooklyn's soon to be famous boutique skinnyskinny: organic dry shampoo. This vegan hair care product promised to leave our hair looking fresh in a matter of minutes, sans shower.

Beauty Wonkette tried the stuff (which is handmade at the Williamsburg shop btw) and was very impressed. Twas easy. Just sprinkle (or dust with a powder brush) along the roots of your hair, wait a few minutes, and then comb through. That's it, my lovelies! Done! One caveat - especially if the bulk of your wardrobe tends towards black - do this before getting dressed to avoid any loose powder falling alllllll over your Armani clad self. (ask Beauty Wonkette how she knows :( ).

This stuff is amazing. Beauty Wonkette didn't think it possible, but as promised, she was able to go three days without washing and avoided the dreaded oily yucky hair syndrome, even on days she worked out. The all-natural formula left her scalp clean and toxin-free. As an added benefit, if you're a hair tosser (yes, BW loves to toss her hair around), you'll be treated to a delightful fragrance with each and every toss. And the fragrances ARE lovely: Organic Rose and Black Pepper, Organic Grapefruit and Cardamon (Beauty Wonkette's personal fav), Organic Jasmine, Organic Lavendar and Rosemary. And, if that's not enough, these shampoos actually give your hair an awesome texture that doesn't require as much styling products to have volume. In case you haven't guessed, Beauty Wonkette is in LOVE with this stuff.

4.5 ounces will set you back $32, but it's enough to use for 3 months or more, even if you have lots and lots of long tresses like BW. Check out some of the other stuff on skinnyskinny's website. Great stuff.

Like White on Rice ! DIY haircare from Peter Lamas

2011-01-06T10:05:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette can tolerate very few products in her hair. A couple of drops of Moroccan Oil is pretty much the limit. However, recent holiday hoopla reminded Beauty Wonkette that sometimes you really do need a little more body and hold.

BW is sure you've been there. We all have. But, before you start loading gunk into your hair, here's a neat little DIY tip from Peter Lamas. If you've tried (and loved) his Rice Protein sulfate free volumizing products - and if you have tried them, chances are you love them - you'll know at least a little about why this works so very well...

To build body and create hold: Bring 2 cups water to a boil. Throw in a fistful of rice - about half a cup should do it. After just a few minutes, long before the rice has absorbed all the water, turn off and let cool. Then drain and reserve the water. Transfer the water into a spray bottle and leave in the fridge. Mist on towel-dry hair before styling.

The starch from the rice creates volume and hold that will last an entire day without leaving sticky residue. Beauty Wonkette swears. Really.

WHATTA WHITE OUT?!?!?!?!

2011-01-04T08:09:00.000-08:00

There was a time, way back in the olden days, when Beauty Wonkette thought that pale lipstick - yeah yeah almost WWWWHITE - was just the most bitchin' thing. Beauty Wonkette makes this admission here even though she once went to great pains to destroy all evidence (read photos) of this unfortunate predeliction. So, you can imagine her shock when she encountered what appeared to be a blast from the past - a WHITE lipstick!!!!

Oh my! Would Beauty Wonkette become a victim of recidivism even after years of rehab and good grooming? Well, fortunately (or not), we'll never know.

You see, although at first glance, YSL's Rouge Pur Couture lipstick in Blanc looks like an intense opaque white, it turns out the shade is more a tribute to sheer shimmer than to '80s, frosted ice queen. When worn alone, Blanc gives a hint of slivery glimmer to lips and when layered, it mellows out super-saturated shades while also adding an extra boost of shine. Plus, the entire Rouge Pur Couture collection — sixteen shades in all — protects with SPF 15 and contains a fade-resistant base to help keep you prettied up throughout all your (ahem) winter activities.

It's carried everywhere the YSL line is carried and will set you back $30. Beauty Wonkette went for it - you might want to check it out....

Exfoliators: The Unsung Heroes of Skin Care

2010-12-31T10:23:00.000-08:00

Hopefully, by now, Beauty Wonkette has convinced beauty wonkettes everywhere that if you’re not regularly buffing your skin, it’s not living up to its total hot potential. Indeed, almost all dermatologists agree that exfoliators are the unsung heroes of skin care. It’s easy enough to understand.

As teens, our skin cells flake off and reveal a more luminous layer ever 14 days. But for every year past the age of 20, that rate increases by a day. Put your shoes back on! Calculations are NOT necessary. If you’re old enough to be reading Beauty Wonkette, you should be exfoliating ! Now, although there are loads of exfoliators out there – some of ‘em gritty, others packed with acids in the form of fruit enzymes – the fact is that Beauty Wonkette doesn’t want you to slap just any crap on your kisser. Furthermore, please remember that truly seeing results that last more than an hour or so after exfoliating, you need to do it consistently. Hence, you have to find what’s right for you. Anything that’s irritating isn’t something you are likely to use consistently.

For those of you with skin that is normal, or oil (Beauty Wonkette is from the land of olive oil and her skin literally reflects it… ), you can likely withstand all types of exfoliators. But, my lovelies, Beauty Wonkette has discovered what is without a doubt the best of all possible worlds when it comes to exfoliation.

David Colbert, MD – dermatologist to the stars – has come out with a lovely line of skincare products. The Colbert MD line is based on the idea that healthy, beautiful skin can and should be effortlessly realized by every one of us. Since the skin has its own healing mechanism that will prompt it to regenerate, he argues, we can create the environment in which it can repair and restore itself. Sooooo, Colbert MD’s system initiates the skin’s own natural healing and repair processes through the use of 3 key products each day every day. Beauty Wonkette likes the fact that it’s easy peasy AND effective AND, while it ain’t cheap, you won’t have to give up feeding your body to feed your skin.

The ColbertMD Daily System

Stimulate: The Serum
Enhances skin´s quality and structure, and refines texture. Increases collagen production. Restores skin´s natural radiance.

Nutrify and Protect: Day
Delivers key nutrients to the dermis. Defends skin against internal and environmental challenges.

Heal and Sooth: Night
Initiates skin´s natural repair processes. Helps reverse inflammation and environmental damage while providing essential hydration.

Now, all of this brings Beauty Wonkette to what she intended to talk about oh so many words ago. This IS a nice line, but honesty must prevail. Beauty Wonkette isn’t ready to part with her M Lab regimen. However, this line has one absolutely standout rockstar product that will intensify ANY skin care routine: Facial Discs ! For use one to three times per week (Beauty Wonkette has been using them 2-3 times per week), these enzyme-soaked discs exfoliate the skin, prepping it for the other Colbert MD (or any other) products and helping the system achieve full effectiveness.

Consider this Exfoliating 201: By now, most of us know that fruit acid can ramp up skin’s radiance. But, using both a physical slougher and a chemical one offers a facial like luminosity that you will LOVE. The combo breaks the bonds between surface cells and dissolves them evenly.

Now, Beauty Wonkette warns you that this is somewhat aggressive and you should do it only if your skin is normal or oily. Start slow – once a week perhaps – and work your way up. Even if your skin tends to the sensitive, you can still probably use this a few times per month.

A jar of 20 discs will set you back $48. Trust Beauty Wonkette. It’s hard to imagine how the money could be better spent. And, Beauty Wonkette is guessing that by sometime tomorrow, your skin is going to be needing a "pick me up."

Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy New Year.

Peace

New Year's Guide 2011

2010-12-29T21:01:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve is most definitely NOT Beauty Wonkette's favorite holiday. In fact, it's probably below Flag Day on Beauty Wonkette's list of favorite holidays. But, since it's unavoidable, here are thirteen sparkling-cocktail recipes from some favorite NY drink dens to help you ring in the New Year with a pop.

Aperol Spritz (View Recipe)
From The Mermaid Inn
This simple cocktail has just two ingredients: the tart, rhubarb-infused spirit Aperol, and the wallet-friendly prosecco. Finish with a twist.

Aviators Tipple (View Recipe)
From Martim Ake Smith-Mattsson at Double Crown
This drink gets a pop of color from maraschino syrup and a swirl of creme de violette.

The Bianco Royale (View Recipe)
From BLT Bar & Grill
VeeV acai liqueur, honey syrup, lemon juice, and rose water mingle with chilled prosecco in this floral cocktail.

Black Mission Fig Mimosa (View Recipe)
From Marc Forgione
For a dose of farm-to-table in a glass: This drink marries homemade fig syrup with walnut liqueur in a Champagne flute that's been rimmed in honey and crushed hazelnuts.

Calvados 75 (View Recipe)
From The Lambs Club
This Spanish twist on a classic blends apple brandy with fresh lemon juice and budget-friendly cava.

East Side Spirit (View Recipe)
From The National
The National's take on the Champagne cocktail features a Grand Marnier–rimmed flute filled with sherry and sparkling rosé, finished with a candied orange twist.

Hearts of Oak (View Recipe)
From Damon Boelte at Prime Meats
The Hearts of Oak cocktail packs a punch, with bourbon, sparkling rosé, and the on-trend cynar making time with cozy winter flavors like cinnamon and orange bitters.

Pomegranate Peach Bellini (View Recipe)
From Stanton Social
Peach purée and pomegranate liqueur amp up the traditional Bellini, making it the perfect beverage for a New Year's celebration or a recovery breakfast the next morning.

Red Velvet Champagne Cocktail (View Recipe)
From Plein Sud
This cocktail combines strawberry purée, vanilla, and sugar in an ode to the universally adored cupcake.

Russian Court (View Recipe)
From Dushan Zaric at Employees Only
This prosecco-based cocktail marries orange bitters with a helping of acacia honey and gets an extra kick from a serving of vodka. Garnish with an orange twist for a festive touch.

Spiced Pear Sgroppino (View Recipe)
From Ai Fiori
A drink made of pear sorbet and sparkling wine—chilly, easy to make, and lightly indulgent. Make as a punch to share with friends.

French 75 (View Recipe)
From Summit Bar
Start the New Year off with a twist on the traditional Soixante Quinze.

Vuelve a la Vida (View Recipe)
From Toloache
Show off your exotic side with a drink containing dragon fruit purée, lime, and mezcal ... just don't forget about the Champagne.

5 quick fixes using stuff you probably DO have

2010-12-27T13:35:00.000-08:00

Holy Guacamole!!! Beauty Wonkette was NOT ready for yesterday's storm. Fortunately, the holidays left BW well-stocked with food and spirits. But, it always seems to be the case that even a hoarder like Beauty Wonkette finds herself without certain essentials - and there needn't be a snowstorm to cause it. Anyway, anyway, here are a few gems we've collected for what happens when you just are OUT of something...

Shampoo as makeup remover: It's not ideal, but this will do until you can make it to your beauty supply store to pick up makeup remover. Baby shampoo with water will help remove thick layers of makeup from your face, and it won't irritate your eyes.

Conditioner as shaving cream: You may have forgotten to put shaving cream on your shopping list, but no worries. You probably have conditioner, which will do the job for now. Its moisturizing ingredients should help the razor glide over your skin smoothly and help avoid razor burn. In fact, Beauty Wonkette uses up all of her "less than fav conditioners" this way. Body wash is also a common emergency remedy.

Clear nail polish to ward off eczema: Ever have eczema outbreaks on your stomach when you wear your favorite jeans? (Yes, yes, Beauty Wonkette spyed you scratching your belly like a cute little chimp) Dr. Jeanine Downie, a dermatologist in Montclair, NJ, says that painting clear nail polish onto the back of the buttons on your denim gear can keep your skin from being irritated. "People have an allergy to nickel," she says.

Petroleum jelly as a soothing agent: Washing your hands with rings on your fingers can cause soap to build up under the jewelry, which leads to skin irritation. A quick fix for this is applying petroleum jelly at night to the affected area. To get to the root of the problem, Dr. Downie says, "Take off your rings when you wash your hands!"

Toothpaste as acne medication: It's the night before a momentous occasion, you've noticed an evil mountain of oil forming on your face, and you don't have time to run to the drugstore to pick up a zit-zapping cream. Fear not: A home remedy is right at your fingertips. First, wash your face with a mild soap and pat it dry with a towel. Then, dab a bit of toothpaste on the pimple and wait for it to dry. By morning the toothpaste will have dried the sucker out. Only plain toothpaste that is low in fluoride should be used for these emergency situations, because whitening toothpastes contain hydrogen peroxide, which will irritate the skin, and gels aren't as effective. But this home remedy is not for everyone, says Downie. People with dry or sensitive skin should stay away from this quick fix because it could dry them out too much.

Claire's lashes ?!?!?!

2010-12-20T09:29:00.000-08:00

Are Claire Danes' luscious lashes giving her hell? The Emmy Award-winning actress joined Brooke Shields this summer as a celebrity spokesperson for Latisse, the eyelash growth treatment from the makers of Botox -- but she seems to have suffered one of the product's side effects.

Danes, in a flouncy dress, touts, "When Your Lashes Grow, Your Lashes Show," while showing off longer, darker lashes in a TV and online commercial with the list of possible adverse reactions.

In a video diary on the Latisse Web site documenting her 16-week journey, Danes admitted, "When I first started using Latisse, I did actually have a side effect, the skin around my eyes was a little bit red that lasted for about a week. But since then, no, I haven't had any side effects."

However, a highly reliable source claims that Danes' makeup artist has to plaster on concealer to cover the purplish and yellowish shade. "It is hard to cover it up," the source said.

Beauty Wonkette first read about this whole affair in the NY Post when they ran this story in their uber famous gossip column Page Six. Apparently, a Latisse spokesperson told Page Six, "We can only speak to what Claire has shared with us regarding her experience with Latisse, which is that she has been pleased with her results and continues to use the product. "Claire's team has shared with us that she has not experienced skin hyperpigmentation following use of Latisse," the spokesperson told us.

"Skin-darkening is a less common side effect . . . and typically occurs close to where Latisse is applied on the skin. This has been reported to be reversible in most patients upon discontinuation of Latisse."

A rep for Danes insisted to us, "Your claims are entirely false. We will pursue legal action if you print anything to the contrary. This story should be killed." Well, not only was the story NOT killed, but Page Six has continued to run variations and updates. No legal action in sight.

Who are you gonna believe? Beauty Wonkette is perplexed. It's your call really. Is the promise of long lashes were taking a chance with increased pigmentation around the eye when dark circles is probably the number one complaint Beauty Wonkette sees? Yup. It's your call.

les perles de chanel.....spring 2011

2010-12-19T16:08:00.000-08:00

Although Beauty Wonkette generally doesn't shrink away from the cold, (IN FACT, she likes the winter), for some reason she was longing for a little bit of Spring. Guess what? The ghost of Coco Chanel responded!

TAAAA DAAAAAA! (drum roll....)
Chanel's Spring 2011 nail polish lineup! Les Vernis in Pearl Drop, Black Pearl and Peche Nacree.

Coco Chanel believed the light-reflecting property of pearls enhanced a woman’s natural beauty by bringing a delicate luminosity to her skin. Peter Philips, Global Creative Director of CHANEL Makeup, captures this quality in a radiant Spring 2011 Collection, LES PERLES DE CHANEL. Pearlized shades of black and white are accented with pinks and corals, brightening the complexion and creating a natural glow."

Ohhh that Coco! The polish will be available in January on Chanel.com and Chanel counters for $23.

Beauty Wonkette needs a mani/pedi way before then.

A Model of Enduring Beauty....

2010-12-19T15:29:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette has always thought Iman was amazingly gorgeous, with her regal body and perfect skin. And — after 35 years as a beauty and fashion icon, she's still recognized as an enduring beauty by both the public and the industry (she received a Fashion Icon Lifetime achievement award this year from the Council of Fashion Designers of America.)

So how has she managed to keep her spectacular body and looks after 35 years in the public eye?

Iman told Allure that she credits her radiance in middle age to things that many of us could do better (like sunscreen everyday), and to things that some of us consider a luxury - like professional facials. And, of course, it doesn't hurt that she has her own makeup artist who uses things like mink false lashes to create her gorgeous looks.

But not all of her beauty secrets are highbrow. For instance, the former supermodel admits that she doesn't know how she ever lived without Moroccan Oil (neither can Beauty Wonkette, actually). More notably, though, Iman's successful, 15-year-old company, Iman Cosmetics, was founded when she saw a need for cosmetics – with an emphasis on foundation – for women with of color. One of the things that BW loves about her line is that it's really affordable AND available (as in every supermarket and drugstore Beauty Wonkette has been in lately).

Part of Iman's lasting appeal is that, while she's exceptionally beautiful, her beauty philosophy is accessible. "Makeup should just enhance who you are," she's often been quoted as saying. And, by her own account, even though she looks much younger than 55 (YES, I SAID 55), Iman still faces some of the same aging problems that the other mortals do, i.e. she had something called "frozen shoulder" which sidelined her from working out for awhile. She may not have been able to work out regularly, but she's known for her striking figure, which stays model-thin even after giving birth in middle age (at 45.)

Beauty Wonkette tried to find out just how Iman manages to stay so slim. According to the Mail Online, Iman is a devotee of "clean eating", but that's contradicted by reports in People magazine, which say Iman eats what her family eats. The magazine then gives an example of her whipping up a shepherd's pie (Beauty Wonkette is no nutritionist, but is pretty sure that doesn't qualify as "clean eating.") Whatever her diet secrets are, they seem to be working...

BW has a ways to go before hitting 55, but if getting there means looking like this gal, BW ain't skeered at all. You shouldn't be either!

Beauty Wonkette wishes you a Merry Merry....

2010-12-19T15:22:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh I know. Beauty Wonkette has been a bad girl. She hasn't posted for so long. Indeed, some would argue that all Beauty Wonkette deserves in HER stocking is a big, old, dirty lump of coal (that's right, you say, COAL not KOHL).

But, Beauty Wonkette has an excellent excuse. First, Beauty Wonkette is now MRS. Beauty Wonkette. No, no - I didn't marry somebody named Beauty Wonkette BUT I did marry. Yep. Again. Hehe.

AND, one of the perks of BW's real job is international travel. And travel BW did...

Okay - enough! Bottom line: BEAUTY WONKETTE IS BACK!

And, she's wishing you and yours a very MERRY MERRY...

Beauty Wonkette likes her tresses shiny BUT if you want to rock the matte trend....

2010-08-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

Fashion swings like a pendulum, and these days, it’s describing an arc away from super-shiny hair of dubious provenance, toward matte tresses as messy as an unmade bed. The look began on the Paris runways this spring and summer, where models wearing shimmering, reflective fabrics sported hair that was the opposite of the glossy clothes: flat in texture, full of body and deliberately dulled down.

Surprisingly, the look of two-day-old hair seemed fresh, and the trend has taken off, appealing to women who want a bad-girl edge that says “I’m not trying too hard.” For its star practitioner, look no further than Twilight’s Kristen Stewart, an actress who rocks the matte look both on and off camera.

Careful readers of fashion magazines will notice that the “no product look” can be seen on models in both articles and ads, with bed-head hair that is neither shiny nor stick-straight. It’s as if they all “just said no” to silicone (products, that is).

Get the Matte Look
Summer is the perfect time to try this trend, because it’s warm enough to let hair dry naturally without a blow-dryer, which uses heat to add shine. To get the look of unwashed hair without having to wait for it to happen in real time, we asked Fabrice Gili, the national creative director of Frederic Fekkai salons, for tips.

* Hair washing: Wash your hair with your regular shampoo, but for the second shampoo, take a plain bar of all-natural olive oil soap. “I like the traditional cube soap that my grandmother used on us when I was growing up in France, but any olive oil soap that’s pure, gentle and unscented will do,” he says. Lather up and massage the foam starting halfway down your hair all the way to the ends, carefully avoiding the roots. Rinse thoroughly. “The soap will leave a matte finish wherever it was applied, and add depth and texture,” says Gili. It’s best to air-dry your hair, but if that’s not possible, try attaching a diffuser to the blow-dryer. “Any other tools, like a straight iron or a flatiron, will only add shine and negate the effect you’re trying to achieve,” he says.

* An even quicker way to get matte hair is by styling it dry and using a powder. Sprinkle or spray dry shampoo on the roots, working it through the scalp, and then bend over to brush it out. “The powder surrounds the shaft of the hair, almost doubling its circumference, which makes it look and feel a lot thicker,” explains Gili. “On all the fashion shoots I’ve been doing lately, I’ve been using dry shampoo, and it adds a lot of body and gives a really big result,” he says. If you’re all out of dry shampoo, baby powder will work in a pinch, he adds.

* Another way to tamp down the shine while adding texture is to braid your hair while it’s still wet. “A few hours later, take out the braid, and you will find a nice matte soft wave,” he says.

If ever there was a low-maintenance but avant-garde hairstyle, the matte-and-mussed look is it. Gili invites you to try it. “This is being worn by young, contemporary women who are thoroughly trendy and ‘get’ what’s happening,” he says. And it may be happening throughout the fall season, if the hairstyles at the recent fall/winter ready-to-wear shows are any indication. Talk about putting out the “welcome matte.”

Purdy tootsies CAN be achieved

2010-08-27T07:49:00.000-07:00

SOME PEOPLE are convinced that Beauty Wonkette has a foot fetish. WEG.... Nah, she doesn't really. BUT, Beauty Wonkette does believe that good grooming includes keeping her tootsies soft and purdy. It ain't hard. Really. Read on!

For stunning tootsies all year round, follow this nourishing routine:

The 6-step Professional Pedicure
At least twice a year (once before the summer season and once before the winter holidays), treat yourself to an intensive professional pedicure. Beauty Wonkette indulges far more frequently. Costly? Nah. Beauty Wonkette does it herself. But, whether the pampering will be done in the privacy of your home or at your favorite spa or salon, choose a treatment that includes the following steps:

1. A salt bath to soften feet.

2. Callus removal, which therapists usually carry out by first brushing a special softening solution onto the affected area and then using a brand-new or properly sanitized tool.

3. A sugar scrub to exfoliate the whole foot.

4. A foot massage, using a natural oil such as grapeseed, which deeply penetrates your skin, returning feet to supple form.

5. A hot paraffin wrap, which seals in moisture.

6. And finally, the fun part: the classic pedicure, during which your toenails are cut and filed, cuticles are softened and nails are painted.

Do-it-yourself Daily Maintenance
1. Sit at the edge of your bathtub and apply a foot scrub. Choose one that contains your favorite essential oils or make your own by combining 1 tablespoon olive oil with 1 tablespoon raw sugar, oatmeal or chickpea flour. Massage the scrub into your feet and leave it on for five minutes. If time permits, soak hand towels in warm or hot water, and wrap them around your feet. This seals in moisture and works in the same way as a paraffin wax treatment.

2. Keep a foot brush or designated washcloth in the shower. Pour liquid soap onto your chosen scrubber and rub until your heels and toes are thoroughly clean. Three times a week while showering, run a foot file vigorously across your heels and soles. Be sure to replace your file once a month to avoid bacteria buildup.

3. Immediately after your bath or shower, slather your feet with a thick body butter, taking care to massage the lotion into your heels and soles.

4. For an added moisture boost, twice a week before you go to bed, rub olive oil all over your feet and soles, and sleep with socks on.

Now, WIGGLE YOUR TOES !!!

Go ahead! FEED YOUR FACE

2010-08-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

Take raspberry seed oil, add a splash of apricot, honeysuckle and lavender, shake well with gingko leaf and carrot root, and top with a dash of rye seed.

Beauty Wonkette licked her lips (yes, yes 'tis no secret that Beauty Wonkette loves things that taste good :D )But, Beauty Wonkette snapped out of it cause she knows this isn't the recipe for a super antioxidant smoothie. It's what's in the new protective serum from luxury organic skincare line Om Aroma & Co.

Launching today, the all-natural, paraben-free Red Raspberry Serum ($58 for 1 oz.) has everything necessary to deliciously fight fine lines, restore natural glow and provide natural UVA and UVB protection. Just massage in the serum twice a day after cleansing.

Are you a NYC Beauty Wonkette? Need your daily serving of fruit? Join Om Aroma tonight to celebrate the launch at their storefront in Limelight Marketplace from 6-8PM, and enjoy red raspberry mocktails and special offers.

Sweet.

Om Aroma & Co. at Limelight Marketplace, 656 Avenue of the Americas, (212) 359-5557

AND, FROM OUR FRIENDS AT VITAL JUICE NYC:
Receive 20% off your Red Raspberry Serum purchase by entering the code VITALJUICE (offer is good until Sept 1) here

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU: New creams harness the power of natural electricity

2010-07-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette is no stranger to the use of microcurrents in skincare. In fact, she is quite fond of her NuFace device. And, yes, it has long been understood that skin cells naturally communicate and stimulate repair and regeneration via tiny electrical currents. These currents are stronger in young skin, and weaken as we age.

This knowledge inspired U.S. scientists at Johnson & Johnson, parent company of the skincare giants RoC and Neutrogena, to discover a way to harness the power of natural bio-electricity in a pot. And this year, both companies launched new high-tech skin creams which claim to do just this.

Described as a 'true revolution in skincare' RoC's Brillance range contains E-Pulse Skin Electro-Stimulation Technology, which is protected by no less than ten U.S. patents, while Neutrogena's Clinical Skin Care also contains a patented ion2 complex.

Both claim to rejuvenate in a similar way - by producing low level micro-currents to boost collagen, making skin appear firmer, smoother and less wrinkled.

Dermatologist Jane Khoury, who worked with Neutrogena on its Clinical range says: 'Diminished bio-electrical signalling has been observed in older skin. These changes may affect the balance of healthy turnover in the skin, resulting in visible signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging skin.'

UK anti-aging consultant Tina Richards, who developed the Tua Viso anti-aging device, adds: 'We know electronic micro-current stimulation works. It has been used in medicine for wound healing, physiotherapy rehabilitation and even orthopaedics and bone growth.'

The new miracle creams are actually two products designed to work together. The first is a grayish, silicone-based serum containing vitamin E and powdered copper and zinc (the elements of the 'battery') and the second is a water-based moisturizing cream that, applied over the serum, activates a weak ten micro amp electrical charge in the top layers of the skin.

You cannot feel it, but it's claimed this will trigger the skin to produce both collagen and elastin - proteins in skin that diminish as we get older.

Collagen gives skin its smooth structure and prevents wrinkles, while elastin gives skin its youthful bounce and resilience.

Certainly the new creams are generating excitement. The before and after pictures Beauty Wonkette saw before testing the products herself were impressive, and in RoC's clinical studies, 97 per cent of women said they saw positive results.

The company says results can be seen in just two days. But not everyone is convinced that these new bio-electricity creams can live up to their promises.

Tina Richards warns: 'The micro-currents generated by these creams are a watered down version of professional grade machines and I doubt they will have the same results.

'Also, they cannot give the same improvements in facial muscle tone and firmness that have a powerful anti-aging effect.'

Consultant dermatologist Dr Russell Emerson of the Hove Skin Clinic in England is even more sceptical. 'Skin cells do communicate using electricity, but I don't think a topical cream can work at cellular level in the way these companies claim.'

Well, Beauty Wonkette had to find out for herself. Reluctantly, she set aside her beloved RevitalEYEZ Double Peptide Emulsion (19.99 from Go Bare Skincare) to try the Neutrogena Clinical Eye Lift Contouring Treatment.

Beauty Wonkette's verdict? DAYUM THIS STUFF WORKS !!!

Yup - and Beauty Wonkette was amazed how just how quickly she saw results. BW has deepset eyes and was sort of craving a bit of a lift beginning at the tender age of 4 3/4. It was the beginning of a lifelong quest and a long string of eye products. She had finally settled on a combo regimen that consisted of the oh-so-pricey Zelens Triple Action Eye Treatment by day and the far more reasonable (but remarkably lovely and effective) Go Bare Skincare product by night. Well, that regimen has changed once again. BW has replaced the Zelens product with the Neutrogena combo in the morning and is still using RevitalEYEZ (because BW lovesssssssss peptides) at night. The firming of her upper eyelids is more than just a little noticeable and has provided more of a lift than botox! At about $40 for a combo pack that will last about a month using it once a day, it's not dirt cheap, but alot more reasonable than the Zelens. More importantly, though, IT WORKS !!!!

Beauty Wonkette Plays Frugalista with a Fabulous Foundation

2010-07-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

Although Beauty Wonkette doesn't wear foundation herself, L’Oreal True Match foundation ($9 at just about any drugstore) caught her eye when burlesque star Dita Von Teese recommended it on Twitter. It turned out that Beauty Wonkette's 3 testers also loved the light, buildable coverage. And, with 24 different shades in three undertones (cool, warm, and neutral), you’re sure to find a perfect match for your skin. BW's tip: Apply foundation with your fingertips and then follow by buffing your skin with a powder brush for a flawless finish.

Woo Hoo - Beauty Wonkette Loves This Full Body Facelift!

2010-07-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette seriously loves spa days, but has trouble finding the time. So, when she finds an at-home treatment that is truly worthy, she becomes a true devotee. Well, this little jar of magic isn't just spa WORTHY, the fact is it yields better results than just about any spa treatment Beauty Wonkette can recall.

Yes, indeedy, masques/masks aren't just for faces anymore -- to give your body a full tune-up for swimsuit season, try Ole Henriksen's African Red Tea Indulgent Body Mask. Algae firms up areas where skin is loosing elasticity, Bentonite and kaolin clay detoxify, honey inhibits bacterial growth, yogurt and vitamin C hydrate and improve skin tone. Either incorporate the mask into your daily routine -- midway through your shower, after cleansing and exfoliating the entire body, work the mask with your fingertips into every inch of your skin, from the toes to the neck. Wash off after 30 seconds. For a deeper firming treatment, Henriksen suggests applying the mask to trouble spots and resting on a warm bath towel for 20. Then rinse with cold water. "It may be a little uncomfortable," says Henriksen. "But it really helps to firm and tone the body." (Beauty Wonkette nods vigorously)

24.5 oz will run you about $65 at Ole Henriksen

The RETURN of Beauty Wonkette !!!

2010-07-16T10:06:00.000-07:00

Yup - this time I'm back for good (more or less. Yes, my lovelies, Beauty Wonkette missed you....sorta. BW cannot tell a lie. We spent 3 months in Tuscany renovating our dream house. BW loves you, but did NOT miss you - or anybody else for that matter... xoxo

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK! my hormones!

2010-04-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

No, no - it's NOT that time of the month.... NO, no - it's not a zit..... Well, then, what provoked that shriek, you ask? Well, last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration acknowledged that triclosan--the ingredient in everything from your cutest skivvies to cosmetics to toothpaste and antibacterial soaps--may pose a health risk. Specifically it may mess with your hormones, contributing to endocrine disorders (which impacts everything from fertility to metabolism) and may be the cause of increased resistance to lifesaving antibiotics. Disturbing fact of the day: Triclosan is so ubiquitous, in fact, that it's found in the urine of 75 percent of the population. So, it has taken Beauty Wonkette a bit of time to calm down as Beauty Wonkette is very sensitive about anybody messing with her hormones and / or endocrine glands!

Of course, the FDA is not telling us to ditch our triclosan-laced products just yet. They emphasize that they are reviewing the existing science--mainly animal studies--and will report back in spring 2011. That's a year away!

Beauty Wonkette is not going to be a freak about it (at least not any more of a freak than usual). AND, Beauty Wonkette loves her current lip gloss so much that the FDA will have to pry it from her cold, dead hands. But, Beauty Wonkette now considers herself officially done with antibacterial products and is going to make an effort to look at labels.

We live in a relatively germophobic society, but lathering up with antibacterial soaps isn't necessary--a solid 20 to 30 seconds of hand-washing with good old-fashioned soap is just as effective (and, as a bonus, it won't give you dry granny hands the way anti-bac products do).

Beauty Wonkette loves that The Body Shop, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's sell only triclosan-free products.

Beauty Wonkette Celebrates Spring with a Zingy Peppermint Facial

2010-04-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette adores Spring. Maybe it's the bright sunshine, the cherry blossoms, the azaleas.... Whatever the reason, Spring is a time when everything feels new and energized and it is a fabulous time to give yourself an at home facial. Facials at home can be SUCH a relaxing experience, and something to look forward to after a day of Spring cleaning (you guessed it - Beauty Wonkette HATES housecleaning :( ). Once thought of as indulgences, today, facials are largely considered to be an essential part of a healthy skincare regime.

And why not? Facials can increase natural cellular regeneration by aiding in faster skin cell renewal and help make your skin healthy and vibrant. The use of exfoliating, extracting and hydrating helps remove daily impurities to reveal the skin’s natural state. Not only will you look better, you'll FEEL better.

And, as their popularity has increased, facials have evolved from the dull, old steaming and extracting routine to experiences where science, technology and even exotic foods (not to mention BIRD POOP.....lol) are combined to give your skin the ultimate clean-up.

While researching facials Beauty Wonkette came across an interesting peppermint facial scrub that she just had to try. It's easy to do, and requires a few simple ingredients. What caught BW's eye was the fact that this uses peppermint leaves, a leaf known for its medicinal properties. Chock full of Vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, inositol, niacin, and iron, this leaf is great for the helping the complexion. Usually associated with trying to naturally remedy acne, it has been used for more than 200 years for treating all kinds of skin diseases. And, even if you don't grow your own (just so happens that Beauty Wonkette does), peppermint leaves are very easy to find.

Soooo my fellow Beauty Wonkettes, here goes - just follow these easy peasy steps:

* Blend 1/4 cup dried peppermint leaves with 1 cup oatmeal (REAL oatmeal - NOT instant).
* Mix in a food processor or blender to form a coarse, dry mix.
* Put into a well-sealed jar and use a handful to rub onto wet, cleansed face and neck for a quick facial scrub.
* Add just enough water to make a thin paste.
* Stay away from the eye area. Rinse with cool water.

Enjoy!

Raising the bar (of soap, that is..... :D )

2010-03-22T16:30:00.001-07:00

Being a bonafide product junkie, Beauty Wonkette has tried ALOT of products (ah, haven't we all???). That said, there are certain products that are etched in Beauty Wonkette's memory forever.

First up was some ungodly creation that was called something like Phisohex or Phisoderm?!?!? It came in a big green plastic bottle and was supposed to guarantee that my pubescent face remained zit-free. Unpleasant as the stuff was, I think it worked.

Next up was Noxema. The smell still makes me nostalgic. Then, I went the Clinique route. Everybody probably did at one time or another. But, then, Beauty Wonkette grew up and got a fancy shmancy job in fancy shmancy NYC and it was time for a real skin routine. That was when Beauty Wonkette became an Erno Laszlo girl (12:00 she was if the feeble memory still works). There was no product that made the impact that Laszlo's black soap made on Beauty Wonkette. ADORED it !

How can somebody get excited about soap (a question only the uninitiated would ask btw)? True, soap has been around for almost 5000 years. One would think it would have evolved a bit more since the Bronze Age, but there have been few advancements in its technology - at least, few for the better. It's one of the reasons Beauty Wonkette has a permanent place in her heart for all those artisan soapmakers out there. The soap they make may not be greatly innovated technology wise. But it's GOOD soap. It smells good, feels good, and is undoubtedly better for you than the dreaded Irish Spring BW's hubby refuses to part with.

For this reason, among others, Beauty Wonkette cannot help but get inordinately excited when someone comes up with truly inspired, innovative soap, like Erno Laszlo has done.

More than just a cleansing slab, Laszlo Blue Firmarine Treatment Bar is a wonder-chunk of skin-improving ingredients. As expected, it gently washes away impurities; but long after you've sudsed up, it's still working.

Like some of our favorite high-performance serums, the Firmarine Treatment Bar (which smells exactly how you'd expect the color blue to smell) features an encapsulated delivery system—a quality essentially unheard of in soap—that ensures the distribution of firming, smoothing, hydrating and antioxidant benefits from the likes of spirulina, algae, shea butter and vitamins C and E.

More anti-aging formula than cleanser (though entirely efficient as the latter), this brilliant bar is uniquely sophisticated in a sea of antiquated soaps.

At least that is what Erno promises.... ;- )

Visit the OPI website and have some fun!

2010-03-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette admits it; she has tested out a polish or two (or eight) while standing in the cosmetics aisle of her local Duane Reade. Perhaps you've seen Beauty Wonkette, standing there, not looking the wee bit guilty, with muli-colored tips, testing out the seasons hottest new shades, stinking up the store, and earning some serious dirty looks from many a passerby.

Yes, indeed, Beauty Wonkette is guilty as charged. But, now, OPI has created the perfect, non-offensive way to try out colors against your skin tone and nail length. My fellow aisle 3 testers, we’ve been saved by OPI’s Try it On Application. Conveniently located on their website, you can test over 200 colors and choose exactly what suits your occasion.

No more standing in front of shelves filled with lacquers while your poor manicurist waits impatiently at her station. You’ll know what to look for going in or can head to your local drugstore before your appointment and pick up a bottle, knowing whether or not it works for you.

On the site, you can filter colors by shade (pinks, purples, brights, etc.) or by collection. Which is way more organized than what your local Walgreens is offering up.

And, if you’ve had your heart set on a shade and (gasp!) it’s not at the drugstore when you get there, have no fear! Just download the free OPI app for your iPhone and you can test out the options from your phone, without resorting back to your aisle 3 tester ways.

Visit http://www.opi.com and click the “Try On This Color” tab or download the application at itunes.

Are you shampooing your hair the RIGHT way???

2010-03-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, now, STOP ROLLING YOUR EYES THIS INSTANT! How does Beauty Wonkette know that you are rolling your eyes? Wellllll, because when Beauty Wonkette first read this SHE rolled HER eyes. After all, we've been washing our hair for an awfully long time. One assumes that one is doing it RIGHT. Si?

Well, maybe you are. But Beauty Wonkette still thinks this is a useful read....

Say goodbye to "bad hair days" with the right shampoo. Learn what to look for in a shampoo and which shampoos are right for your specific hair type. Beautiful, healthy hair is just a shampoo away!

Is your hair frizzy and out of control? Maybe it has no body and will never hold a style. If you’re not happy with the way your hair looks, your shampoo could be the problem. Even if you love your current look, the right shampoo can cut down on those hours spent blowing, teasing, and spraying in front of the mirror each day.

Choose the right shampoo. One of the biggest mistakes women make is choosing a shampoo based on price or smell. There is a real science behind all the ingredients that go into your shampoo. You need to read shampoo labels to identify those formulated for your specific hair type. The companies that produce hair care products conduct intensive research to develop shampoos that will bring out the best in your hair. Using a product that is not made for your hair could result in damage, increased risk of breakage, and a very unhappy customer — you!

Shampoo for oily hair. If limp, greasy hair is your gripe, your shampoo solution is simple: wash and go. That’s right, skip conditioner and use a clear shampoo (no creamy shampoos for you) at least once a day — twice when you’ve spent a good deal of time outside on an especially hot, sticky day. Leave shampoo on for at least five minutes and rub your scalp well — gently of course — while shampooing to remove as much oil as possible.

If you must condition after your shampoo, apply conditioner only to the middle and ends of your hair. And when you’re through, hands off! Avoid touching hair whenever possible and brush only when necessary.

Ingredients to look for:

* Panthenol which adds body by increasing the thickness of the hair shaft.
* Acidic ingredients such as citrus fruits to cut through layers of oil and dirt.
* Astringents such as tea tree oil, chamomile, rosemary, or sage which also break down oil.

Shampoo for dry hair. Restore dry or cracked hair (think split ends) with thick, creamy shampoos that contain natural oils and fats. You can even add a drop or two of safflower or olive oil to your hair to add shine and cut frizz. But even creamy shampoos contain detergents which dry out hair if used too often. Shampoo every other day to retain your hair’s natural shine, and be sure to follow with conditioner each time. Tight curls common among African American women may need a shampoo just once every two weeks. Dry shampoos (powders that absorb oil) can be used in between washes.

Colored or other chemical-treated hair is highly susceptible to dryness and breakage. Use shampoos specially formulated for color-treated hair, and wash your hair no more than once a day.

Ingredients to look for:

* Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and oleol alcohol which moisturize and soften.
* Jojoba oil, another great moisturizer.
* Vitamin E, which has bonus antioxidant power to protect hair from damage as well as natural moisturizing action.

Shampoo for dandruff-prone hair. If you struggle with dandruff, you’re not alone; in one study, almost three-quarters of participants reported having dandruff. Dandruff can be the result of poor hygiene and infrequent washing, but it may also be caused by overgrowth of yeast that normally lives on the scalp or other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

The key to controlling dandruff is seeing a dermatologist to get to the root of your dandruff. He or she can recommend a medicated shampoo which will provide relief from scratching and reduce flaking.

Ingredients to look for:

* Antimicrobials like selenium disulfide, zinc pyrithione, and piroctone olamine, which inhibit yeast growth.
* Salicylic acid which breaks up clumps of skin cells on the scalp.

Shampoo the right way. Regardless of your hair type, follow these steps to ensure you’re making the most of your shampoo:

* Wet hair thoroughly using warm water to free trapped oils and dirt within the hair shaft.
* Squirt a quarter-sized mound of shampoo onto your hand, lather, and rub gently into your scalp. Do not pull your hair on top of your head to shampoo; that will lead to knots and breakage. Apply the shampoo at your hair roots and work it gradually towards the tips.
* Rinse hair with warm water to remove all shampoo.

If you do not shampoo every day, you may need to repeat the whole process to ensure all the built-up grime has been removed.

So, what say you? Have YOU been shampooing the right way for your hair type?

A Must Have Beauty Palette from NARS

2010-03-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

As far as Beauty Wonkette is concerned, beauty palettes are generally good for two things: taking up space in your makeup bag, and wasting your money on pairings of colors you end up never using. NARS Wild At Heart 15 Yr Anniversary Palette is NOT one of those palettes. Featuring 4 you-will-wear-them eyeshadow shades, Orgasm blush (Beauty Wonkette's all-time favorite blush, and in the beauty Hall of Fame), The Multiple in South Beach (a classic shimmer cream), 4 gorgeous lip glosses ranging from nearly-sheer to look-at-me red, and a huge, hugely convenient mirror, this palette now goes everywhere with BW. It's a limited edition, so grab one while you can.

The set contains:
- 0.03 oz Eyeshadow in Abyssinia (delicate pearl sheen)
- 0.03 oz Eyeshadow in Alhambra (golden champagne)
- 0.03 oz Eyeshadow in Ashes To Ashes (violet brown with shimmer)
- 0.03 oz Eyeshadow in Pandora (matte black)
- 0.15 oz Blush in Orgasm (peachy pink with shimmer)
- 0.12 oz The Multiple in South Beach (shimmering apricot)
- 0.03 oz Lip Lacquer in Baby Doll (cotton candy pink)
- 0.02 oz Lipstick in Red Lizard (semi matte full powered red)
- 0.02 oz Lipstick in Manhunt (sheer poppy red)
- 0.02 oz Lipstick in Fire Down Below (semi matte pure blood red)

Available ONLINE ONLY at Sephora

Great workout gear that avoids the "ugh I STINK"

2010-03-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

Since Beauty Wonkette is something of an exercise fanatic, we're always interested in products designed to help athletes perform at their best. And, as a wife and working woman, I love finding things that make my life easier. Heh.... Who doesn't?

Well, Beauty Wonkette has discovered a line of workout wear that does both: Icebreaker, made from New Zealand merino wool. Wool for running, stepping, etc.? Yup, but this stuff is a far cry from that itchy sweater you bought but never wear. Merino wool is soft, breathes better than cotton, wicks sweat beautifully and keeps Beauty Wonkette cool, even on hot days! That's all great but here's what Beauty Wonkette really love about Icebreaker gear: unlike synthetic fabrics, it doesn't get stinky after just one workout. In fact, you can wear the same top for a week before it even starts to ripen.

Icebreaker clothes come in several weights (Beauty Wonkette wears a couple of layers for cold-weather runs) and tons of styles, some cute enough to wear anytime. Check it out at www.icebreaker.com.

Skincare doesn't end at your chin !

2010-03-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Ever look at someone with a clear bight face, and then as your eyes travel down to the chest the skin revealed just where a couple of buttons are undone, you can see an area that’s freckled, wrinkled and darker than the face? Beauty Wonkette sees it all too often. It’s not pretty or youthful. What it IS is years of sun damage. Fortunately, Obagi Medical has come out with a system to treat it. The Elastiderm Decolletage System does a remarkable job of reversing some of that photo-aging damage.

Part one is a skin lightening complex that uses 4% hydroquinone (pleeeez DON'T start with BW about hydroquinone - NOTHING else is as effective) which reduces discoloration and age spots.

Part two is a wrinkle reducer that is a blend of minerals, copper, zinc and malonic acid which helps to restore collagen and help the skin produce healthy new skin cells. Start now and Beauty Wonkette promises that you'll see results in one month – just when you’ll want to be getting rid of that turtleneck! Gobble, gobble.

Available at www.lovelyskin.com

Beauty that knows no borders....

2010-03-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

One of the most buzzed about ingredients in beauty right now is argan oil. Ah, but my fellow Beauty Wonkettes already know that. Long before BW set foot in Morocco, she was blogging about the wonders of argan oil. It truly is amazing stuff. Beauty Wonkette still loves her MoroccanOil hair stuff, even if argan oil isn't the only thing - or even the primary thing, in there. But, when we're talking argan oil, a little bit goes a long way.

Found in Morocco, it is pressed from the nut of local argan tree fruit, where it has been used for centuries by Berber women as a skin and hair care cure-all for everything from acne and wrinkles to split ends and scar tissue. It is called the “gold of Morocco” for good reason. Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, loaded with potent antioxidant polyphenols and packed with hydrating essential fatty acids like lineolic acid which deeply moisturizes the skin (or hair!) while protecting it from free radical damage.

Argan oil can be used on its all over your body, literally from head to toe. Starting at the top, it not only nourishes the scalp and hair, but leaves locks looking shiny without feeling heavy or greasy. You can use it on your skin instead of a traditional facial or body moisturizer, on your nails as a strengthener and on your cuticles to prevent cracks. Here in the US, it's a precious (read EXPENSIVO) elixir, but in Morocco.... Well, let's just say that Beauty Wonkette got into the habit of slathering the stuff everywhere. As great as the stuff is all by itself, BW has learned that when argan oil is blended into skin care, body and hair care products the results can be even more amazing.

One example is Mama Mio O-Mega Oil. This soothing oil is the miracle product for dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin. Formulated with three omega-rich oils, it improves elasticity while deeply nourishing and moisturizing the skin. Jojoba seed oil soothes and prevents premature skin aging, argan oil nourishes and helps the skin to stretch with increased comfort and safflower seed oil strengthens cell membranes. Apply this stuff once a day to shower damp skin, and you'll be amazed!

Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcus (Sweet Almond) Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower Seed) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Citronellol, Evernia Furfuracea (Treemoss) Extract, Benzyl Benzoate (from Ylang Oil).

It isn't cheap. 7 ounces will run about $35. But, since a little bit goes a long way, the bottle will last.

Beauty Wonkette is back !

2010-03-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true! Beauty Wonkette is back. One of the perks of my REAL job means the occasional overseas posting in an exotic spot. :D Oh, okay - most of the time the postings aren't all that exotic, but this one truly was. If you ever have an opportunity to visit Morocco, don't think twice. It is, without question, one of the loveliest places on earth.

That said, it's very good to be home and really, while I've been places that I've loved, I still maintain that there isn't anyplace, at least on THIS planet, like New York. Yep - it's good to be home!

Now that we're back and unpacked and all settled in, Beauty Wonkette is ready to pick up where she left off. Soooo, let the posting begin!

From highlights to twilights.....

2009-12-05T17:53:00.000-08:00

Well, tousle my tresses!

Beauty Wonkette knows that young girls line up to see Rob Pattison in the Twilight films. Not only has the film spawned a love for vampires, but Pattison's highlights have started a new trend. That is, all thanks to Beverly Hills colorist and salon-owner, Stuart Gavert, who coined the word for Pattison’s hair “twilights.” It’s something Beauty Wonkette thinks we should all know about since it can save money
and time with fewer trips to the hairdresser.

Beauty Wonkette: This all came about because you needed Robert Pattison’s hair to look the same through out the movie.

SG: Exactly. Since consistency is so important in filming, we designed Rob’s highlights to last the whole shoot (7-8 weeks).

BW: You called them twilights. What are “twilights”?

SG: Since many clients are concerned with their color lasting longer in our economically stressed age, I developed “Twilights.”. When we highlight the hair, we keep the light pieces about ¼-inch off the part and face line. They are visible throughout the body of the hair, but show much less re-growth than previous techniques.Since I couldn’t be on the set everyday I put the highlights under the top of the hair. No putting highlights on the exterior of the hair.

BW: That discovery will also save women money.

SG: This way you don’t have to go to the salon every other month. Women can come in every quarter to do highlights since you won’t see them growing out.

BW: Any other money-saving tips you can share with our readers?

SG: We offer free bang trims to keep the scissors out of our client’s hands. Ask your hairdresser for tips on how to manage hair your hair if you need to go longer between haircuts (something most high-end salons are now hearing). Employing a good conditioning regime with good products keeps hair looking good for extended times. We love Rene Furterer Karite Intense Nourishing Conditioning Cream. Where hair begins to look frayed and in need of a haircut is usually at the ends. Pay attention to conditioning this part of your hair and keep up hair color, as well. Faded hair might not need a haircut, but can look like it does.

Gavert Atelier
9666 BrightonWay/Beverly Hills, 90212
310-858-7898

Tricks of the Trade: Holiday Hair

2009-12-05T17:34:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette's first choice is to let her locks air dry - undoubtedly, it's good for the hair and, with the right products, air dried hair is just a little tousled and very sexy. For days when Beauty Wonkette wants to look all polished and serious, she reaches for the blow dryer or some other hot tool. But, on very special occasions, 'do's with hot curlers are fun. Beauty Wonkette brings you the tricks of the trade:

THE BEST HOT CURLERS

HIGH

BaByliss PRO Ceramic and Ionic Hair Setter $79.95 Heats up in 3 minutes with ceramic technology for even heat distribution while eliminating damaging hot spots and frizz.

MID

Conair Instant Heat Jumbo and Super Jumbo Rollers $34.99 These jumbo rollers create big bouncy curls or sexy waves while adding shine and reducing frizz.

LOW

Conair Hot Sticks Hairsetter

Conair Hotsticks – $20.99 That’s right! The eighties are back and so are these fab rubber sticks.

Pricey but interesting......

2009-11-18T05:59:00.000-08:00

Recently, Le Métier de Beauté’s new Peau de Vierge Anti-Aging Collection caught Beauty Wonkette's eye. The line includes a concealer and foundation-like treatment fluid, makes getting your dose of clock-stopping retinol even easier. Clinicals found that the line’s vitamin E-encapsulated retinol reduced wrinkles and discoloration in just a week.

Now, Beauty Wonkette may have born at night, but she wasn't worn LAST NIGHT...lol. A week is a very short period of time for any product to work. Nevertheless, the stuff looks interesting. On a recent trip to Neiman Marcus, BW had the opportunity to try out the Treatment Fluid. No doubt about it, the stuff is really LOVELY. We didn't purchase it, but we now are using and generous sample. Read more about it below.

Peau de Vierge Anti-Aging Complex Tinted Treatment Fluid
As seen in InStyle magazine (November 2009 issue, p174) and Harper's Bazaar magazine (November 2009 issue, p182).

A luxurious tinted treatment fluid that stimulates collagen production, increases blood flow, lessens dark circles, smoothes fine lines, blurs blemishes and tightens pores within a week of once-daily use.

Offering sheer, lightweight coverage, Peau de Vierge Anti-Aging Complexe provides a sheer wash of flawless, luminous finish. The formula feels like second skin with a gossamer-like texture. Light-diffusing pigments help fade away lines and instantly impart a renewed radiance and healthy appearance to skin. With SPF 20, Peau de Vierge helps guard against the damaging effects of the sun.

• Contains anti-aging powerhouse Retinol, known for its ability to smooth and plump wrinkles from deep below the skin's surface, stimulating collagen cell rejuvenation and bringing elasticity back to skin.
• Retinol is delivered through a unique deliver technology called TPM—Tocopheryl Phosphate Mechanism—which encapsulates the Retinol and allows it to safely and effectively penetrate the skin.
• Traditional over-the-counter products have very poor penetration—less than 2% of active ingredients are actually absorbed. In comparison, with TPM, 20 times more Retinoic Acid is absorbed into the deeper skin layers, making it the most effective cosmetic Retinoid treatment on the market.
• Paraben, Talc, Fragrance and Dye-Free.

TPM's unique advantage over other delivery systems is that it is a form Vitamin E that has been combined with phosphates. Phosphates are a naturally occurring property in the body, making this form of Vitamin E, TPM, highly compatible with the skin and easy to metabolize. TPM delivers actives so efficiently because it completely encapsulates the active ingredient, such as Retinol, so the active never comes in contact with the stratum corneum. This allows the TPM to penetrate deepest layer of the skin where the all the action is and deliver Retinol where it is most effective.

Key ingredients: Retinol, which smoothes and plumps wrinkles and restores elasticity to the skin. TPM, exclusive to Le Metier de Beaute, which maximizes the effectiveness of the Retinol and delivers it safely to the dermal layer of the skin, eliminating the negative effects seen in the use of topical Retinol treatments (inflammation, skin thinning, redness and sensitivity to the sun).

How to use: Apply once daily to face, neck and decolletage areas and see results within seven days..

NB: THE PHOTO IS NOT THE TREATMENT FLUID, IT IS THE CONCEALER :)

Strong nails, matte finish

2009-11-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

Matte nails are ALL the rage these days, and Beauty Wonkette loves some of the new matte nail laquers. And, when Beauty Wonkette is "mattefying" a favorite old standby shade, she relies on Opi's Nail Envy (the matte finish one, of course ;-) ). Well, kudos to Bella Sugar, who discovered a similar look for less!

"OPI Nail Envy ($12) is a nail-strengthening treatment that helps to prevent cracking, peeling, and splitting. However, if you'd like to save a few bucks, hit up the Wet 'n' Wild aisle at the drugstore and look for the brand's MegaLast Lengthener Strengthener, which does pretty much the same thing for a whole lot less."

When you're feeling thrifty.....

2009-11-13T17:37:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette doesn't skimp when it comes to products for her skin and hair. BUT, she doesn't spend when she doesn't have to either. You all have heard me rave about Moroccan Oil, and I do indeed love the stuff.

Well, Beauty Wonkette's beloved Moroccan Oil, which helps create instant shine on hair without leaving behind oiliness, IS a fabulous multitasking product - no going back on that! But, at $41, it's a bit harsh on the wallet. Well, my fellow Beauty Wonkettes, ead over to Sally's and try out One 'n Only Argan Oil Treatment, a VERY similar product, with identical ingredients, which costs just $9.

Moroccan Oil ingredients:
Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Butylphenyl, MethylPropional, Argania Spinoza Kernal Oil (Aragan Oil), Linseed (Linum Usitatissimum) Extract, Fragrance Supplement, D&C Yellow-11, D&C Red-17, Coumarin, Benzyl Benzoate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone

One 'n Only Argan Oil Treatment ingredients:
Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Linseed Extract, Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Red 17 (CI 26100)

http://www.sallybeauty.com/moroccan-oil/ONEONL16,default,pd.html

You sleep wit da fishes......NOT ANYMORE

2009-11-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkette has never heard of a fish pedicure, but is betting it tickles :D

NY State Senator Jeffrey Klein drafted legislation to ban fish pedicures — a treatment that uses small fish to eat away dead skin on the feet — in New York State on the grounds that they are "dirty and dangerous and a serious risk to one’s health," Klein said in a statement. "Women may think it’s the latest in luxury nail treatment but it’s not." If legislation passes, New York will be the fifteenth state to ban it.

Beauty Wonkette is speechless.

Healthy Beauty

2009-11-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

Beauty Wonkettes may not be familiar with the makeup brand W3ll People (pronounced Well People) just yet, but when they make their debut in one of the biggest department stores come spring, you will be. Cosmetic dermatologist Renée Snyder, former NARS makeup artist Shirley Pinkson, and self-proclaimed tree hugger James Walker banded together to create a line of organic cosmetics that not only come in amazing shades and have great texture, but also happen to be toxin-free. One of the superstars of the line is the Universalist ($33), a richly pigmented stick (available in eight colors) that can work on the eyes, cheeks, as well as lips. Anyone with acne or oil-prone skin can attest that most multipurpose sticks cause breakouts reminiscent of your awkward high-school years, while mineral makeup seems to slide off after about five minutes and is extremely messy. But this dynamic trio managed to balance form and function perfectly, so even cynical divas like Beauty Wonkette falls in love.

$33 http://www.w3llpeople.com/shop/cosmetics/multi_use_color/

Pssssst....save $$$$$$

2009-11-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

Wanna glow like the stars. Beauty Wonkette hears that Demi Moore and Sarah Jessica Parker love The Organic Pharmacy's line of healthy beauty products. Pamper yourself and save 25% with the code VITAL.

http://www.theorganicpharmacy.com/?setcurrency=usd

Just like a well-oiled machine....

2009-11-02T13:12:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like Beauty Wonkette, visiting the spa is a rare occurrence. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to make time for that kind of thing. Still, it never hurts to pamper yourself from home with some spa-like essentials. One of Beauty Wonkette's new favorites? Kiehl’s Superbly Restorative Argan Dry Oil.

No matter what the situation, Beauty Wonkette has been depending on this delicate oil to give her skin a radiant, never-greasy sheen. BW has been a longtime, avid fan of Kiehl’s ever since she was just a wee wonkette. The subtle vintage packaging is cool, but it is truly the quality of their products that keeps them at the top of their game. The aforementioned Argan Oil is a personal fave, but for those of you who aren’t into the oil thing, Beauty Wonkette also puts her stamp of approval on the Argan Body Lotion. Throw on either product any time, any place to create your own spa moment.

http://www.kiehls.com/_us/_en/body/body-moisturizers/superbly-restorative-dry-oil.htm

You're never too old for an all nighter ;- )

2009-11-02T13:04:00.000-08:00

Let’s be honest—who wants to wash their hair every day? Beauty Wonkette certainly does not. For years, Beauty Wonkette's friends observed the old trick of dousing their locks in baby powder to absorb oil and add volume. Beauty Wonkette never did - too much hair AND hair that was just too dark for this trick to work, or at least for it to work well. Well, my sweeties, there is a newer and cooler way of extending your blow dry. Yes,you heard me right! It is time to leave the baby powder for the babies and reach for a bottle of The All Nighter Styling Powder.

Made with real silk particles, this magic dust is the best way to soak up dirt, build volume and add a satiny texture to your hair without shampooing. BW is addicted. Whenever you are in a bind for time or want to get the most out of your salon blowout, just sprinkle it on your roots and work it into your hair. There is no need to be delicate — the messier, the better — go crazy! The All Nighter is available in six shades and pocket-sized to perfection, so you can revive your hair on-the-go. Consider yourself enabled...

http://www.theall-nighter.com/buy_hair_powder.html

Combat fat.....

2009-10-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette is LOVING her super skinny jeans. Seems like this season, the skinnier your jeans, the better. Get them a little bit too long and let them bunch at the ankle and don a pair of high heel booties. Woooo hooooo!

Now if you want them to look really good, you may have to drop a couple of those extra lbs. The best way? EAT!!! At least, that's what Self Magazine says. Is it true? Beauty Wonkette isn't sure, but she likes anybody and anything that tells her to eat. :D

Here's what Self has to say:

Swiss cheese

Holy cow: "Calcium-rich foods reduce fat-producing enzymes and increase fat breakdown," says Michael B. Zemel, Ph.D., director of the Nutrition Institute at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Put toe to toe with some of its cheesy counterparts, Swiss is a heavy hitter in the calcium department; layer a slice on a lunchtime sandwich, or stack some on high-fiber crackers.

Sweet potatoes

Trade up to sweet taters. They're high in fiber, which means no drastic insulin jumps and thus less fat packed onto your hips. Bake a small sweet potato—think of two bars of soap as a portion size—and top with a dollop of lowfat or nonfat cottage cheese.

Soybeans

These green gems are rich in choline, a compound that blocks fat absorption and breaks down fatty deposits. Add 1/2 cup edamame to a salad.

Oranges

Prevent pound creep with this citrus star: It contains fat-torching compounds called flavones. Women who ate the most flavones had a significantly lower increase in body fat over a 14-year period, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds. Snack on slices or drink freshly squeezed OJ (with pulp!) for the biggest payback.

Mustard

Hello, yellow. The spice that gives mustard its color, turmeric, may slow the growth of fat tissues, a study in the journal Endocrinology notes. Eighty-six mayo in favor of any mustard; sprinkle turmeric on cauliflower and roast for a tangy side.

Cinnamon

This spice could make your waistline nice. Sprinkling 1/4 teaspoon on your food may prevent a postmeal insulin spike—this increase normally occurs after you eat and "signals the body that it should store fat rather than burn it," explains Lauren Slayton, R.D., of New York City. Add a dash to your oatmeal, yogurt or coffee.

Berries

Vitamin C–loaded fruit such as strawberries and raspberries can help you sizzle up to 30 percent more fat during exercise, suggests research from Arizona State University at Mesa. Blend a vinaigrette of 1 cup berries and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar.

Almonds

Almond joy! Dieters who ate 3 ounces of these nuts every day reduced their weight and body-mass index by a solid 18 percent compared with an 11 percent drop in the no-nut group, a study in the International Journal of Obesity found. Almonds are high in alpha-linolenic acid, which can speed the metabolism of fats. Stick to 12 per serving.

a little diy spa action from Beauty Wonkette ;-)

2009-10-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

It's been unseasonably cold and wet and yucky. Beauty Wonkette plans on lighting the fire, opening some good wine, and treating herself to a little bit of homemade spa action before Mr. BW gets some tonite. Want to treat yourself to a little handmade spa action, too? Check out these facial scrub recipes for dry, normal, and oily skin! Beauty Wonkette has seen other recipes that might be more interesting, but these are all made of things you probably have in the kitchen, so no special prep is required....

Now, first off, regardless of skin type, the best way to apply your scrub is to gently massage it on with a damp washcloth, and make sure you rinse your face thoroughly when you’re done. Also, don’t miss the easy toner recipe at the very bottom!

A word of caution about these scrubs: you don’t want to exfoliate every day. Once or twice a week is just perfect for maintaining healthy, glowing skin! More than that can cause oiliness, dryness or breakouts as your skin compensates for the “lost” moisture. You’ll want to mix up very small batches- enough for just one or two uses - since these recipes are food-based and won’t keep for too long on the shelf.

Dry Skin
To help ease dry skin, you’ll want to gently exfoliate while also moisturizing. Try Annie’s sugar scrub recipe or ehow’s olive oil and avocado moisturizer. If your skin is exceptionally dry, follow this up with a little bit of olive oil to moisturize even more. You might also try drinking more water to treat your skin right from the inside out!

Normal Skin
To gently moisturize and exfoliate normal skin, try mixing a bit of sugar and baking soda with enough sesame oil to form a paste. If this feels a bit too oily for your skin, you can also try half oil and half honey in the mix.

Oily Skin
We knew oatmeal was good for your insides… who knew it was great for your face? You can make a simple oatmeal scrub by combining equal parts ground oatmeal and deeply steeped, cooled chamomile tea. Add a little bit of honey and a drop of tea tree oil, and you’re ready to scrub. This recipe also works with spent coffee grounds in place of the oatmeal. Invigorating!

No matter what your skin type, you might enjoy following this up with a soothing green tea toner. Just steep the tea for about ten minutes and let it cool. Put it in a spray bottle and spritz on or apply with a clean cloth. Voila!

Smoaking hot....

2009-10-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

The former Miss USA, actress, TV personality, and generally pretty hot mother of 3, Shanna Moakler, has just launched a new cosmetic line called Smoak which is smokin’…She created the line with the assistance of her personal makeup artist Daniel McFadden.

Her launch party was held just the other day at Cafe Wes in Hollywood, a fabulous & quaint little French Bistro on Vine Street with Brett Young singing live and press flashing away. Her makeup line ranges from shadows, lip plumpers, face & eye primers to sinfully soft brushes made of goat hair. There are no chemicals, dyes, artificial fillers, preservatives or synthetic ingredients. Smoak is fragrance free, oil free, and used no animal testing in the creation of the line.

After touring the country and making appearances, Shanna realized the importance of having quality makeup and knowing how to use it. So, she put together a small cosmetic line that truly reflects what all women need. Krissy Gimenez photographed the “Smoak” line and her husband created the website. Beauty Wonkette thinks it’s most definitely worth checking out!

Smoak Cosmetics

OMG SHE'S CODING !!!

2009-10-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

If you're like Beauty Wonkette, you've seen enough episodes of Gray's Anatomy to know that a code blue is bad. Very, very bad.

But Beauty Wonkette has discovered a Code Blue that's actually good for you. The relaunched recovery drink is now completely natural with electrolytes to rehydrate and antioxidants to help detoxify.

Even doctors are downing the drink--it's a fave of the staff at Cleveland Clinic. (Paging Dr. McDreamy. We see a product placement opportunity!)

The 60-calorie can of Code Blue is sweetened with agave nectar and gets its hue from blueberries.

So how's it taste? Suffice it to say that Beauty Wonkette isn't sharing her samples with the rest of the office. (tip: Mix Code Blue with H20 to get twice the drink and a subtler sweetness.)

Try two and call us in the morning.

Code Blue - $3

Calling all Beauty Wonkettes who suffer breakouts!!! This Suds For You!

2009-10-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

Do you suffer breakouts? You've tried every blemish potion on the market. You've endured painful facials. You even changed your diet. You aren't alone. Beauty Wonkette gets more email about this problem than almost any other.

Beauty Wonkette went to work and may have found the real culprit - or at least ONE of them - behind your breakouts.

Hint: Look up. No, not your forehead. Higher.

It's your hair. Shampoo, conditioner and styling products can contain pore-clogging ingredients that may worsen acne. Enter Kairos Acne Care, the first hair care line that treats and prevents breakouts. The products are designed to purge pores and curb oil production. (And make hair silky and shiny.)

Get splashing with balancing shampoo and conditioner to detox strands and wash away product buildup. As you rinse, let the later wash down your face (eyes closed!) so the potent salicylic acid can banish blemish-causing bacteria. Finally, polish your look with the noncomedogenic styling aid of your choice. Bonus: Some users have told Beauty Wonkette that these products even cleared up acne on their backs and chests, too.

This sud's for you. ; )

Chic relief.....

2009-10-07T22:05:00.000-07:00

As the first blast of fall sets in, Beauty Wonkette is guessing that for some of you, your dewy summer glow is starting to morph into a dry, irritated, cracked mess. A new line debuted on Tuesday and vows to keep skin in its moisturized glory so winters aren't always so dreadful. First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream is an intense all-purpose cream loaded with ingredients like eucalyptus oil (to heal and soothe), colloidal oatmeal (to protect), and shea butter (to moisturize) to calm everything from eczema to post-cosmetic treatments. Instead of being a thick, greasy balm with an odd medicinal smell like all those other multipurpose potions that Beauty Wonkette finds uber gross, First Aid Beauty is fragrance-free with a lightweight frothy texture that still manages to deeply hydrate. Rub it everywhere from your face to feet, and even on your new tattoo (guaranteed to the itch away BW is told), for ultimate relief and moisture.

$28.50 at Sephora.com

Tips for Creating Sultry, Smoky Eyes For Fall

2009-10-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette has always been rather fond of Cleopatra. Why? Ah, well, for many reasons. And, there is no doubt that Cleopatra was definitely onto something when she would use kohl to smudge around her eyes paying homage to her sun god, and thus paving the way for goddesses like Giselle to hit the runway in the now very popular smoky eye.

Honestly, Beauty Wonkette isn't all that into makeup, but, there is nothing sexier than a smoky eye. However, layers of black eye shadow will just not do. And, going goth, or rocker girl is really not Beauty Wonkette's thing. “The best way to achieve the perfect smoky eye is to start with softer colors like a shimmery or matte gray in place of a charcoal matte, or a taupe shimmer or matte taupe instead of a dark brown”, says make-up artist Beth Bender.

To get the look Beth recommends using a creamy eyeliner pencil with an eye shadow. “Powders work best and last much long than a cream shadow”. Start first by lining your eyes with a creamy black eyeliner pencil. I love, love, love, benefit’s BADgal Waterproof eyeliner in black. It stays put, smudges easily, and looks great. Place your finger at the outer corner of your eye and gently lift the skin up and out slightly. Holding the pencil as close to the upper lash line as possible, draw short strokes from the outer lashes inward, creating a thick line and tapering as you get closer to the inner eye.

If your eyes are close set, or smaller, make sure to taper the line closer to the center of your eye. Line your bottom lashes as well and smudge with a Q-tip or smudge applicator. Next take your eyeshadow brush and dip into the gray shadow. Tap off excess before applying to eye. The color should be darkest by your lashes so start at the outer corner and brush across your lid using feathery strokes, staying as close to the lash line as possible. Use the brush to blend the color up to the crease. For perfect placement, Beth suggests using a smoky eyeliner stencil and holding over the eyelid while filling in with color. It leaves out the guess work of how high or low depending on the shape of your eye. Reload the brush with shadow and sweep into crease, and underneath the eye.

To finish, blend everything into a soft haze by sweeping your brush over any edges of color. Clean up any stray shadow with an eye makeup remover, or eye cream.

Finally, BW passes along few side notes from Beth for the absolutely perfect smoky eyes.

With smoky eyes it usually looks best to wear foundation. If you are not a fan, try a foundation stick like Bobbi Brown’s and apply only where you need to even out the skin. A medium coverage semimatte formula that doesn’t feel too heavy works well too. CoverFx is fabulous and can be mixed with your moisturizer to cut the heaviness, while still providing great coverage. It can also be used as a concealer as well.

Foundation should always be done after you have finished your eyes, otherwise you’ll spend extra time cleaning up the shadow and re-applying.

To off set the black eyeliner which has a tendency to make the eyes seem smaller, you can rim your lower eyelid with a cream-colored pencil.

The best smoky eyes are the ones that are blended, blended, blended.

And last but not least have fun! ;)

A Must Buy for Recessionistas.....

2009-10-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, Beauty Wonkette loves to splurge. But when something thoroughly affordable (read CHEAP)comes along, you can count on BW for a shout out...

So, my pretties, you have just got to check out these hot new eyeliners by Styli-Style. They are flat! Flat you say? Yes, flat. What makes them so unique is that the flat shape of the pencil gives you the option to create a thick or thin line above your lashes. Colors include shades of black, brown, blue and purples (8 shades in all).

When using the “Blendable Innovations Flat Eye Pencil” your end result can be subtle or dramatic depending on your mood! Plus Styli-Style has a sharpener specifically made just for their flat pencil.

They're available for a song at CVS, Rite Aid, and your finer beauty supply stores.

How to get ridiculously perfect looking skin.....

2009-09-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette always picks up some great tips during Fashion Week!

Makeup artist Hung Vanngo has secret weapon: MAC Strobe Cream. It’s loaded with green tea and other antioxidants to perk up dull skin and contains all kinds of iridescent particles that reflect the light in a way that’s glowy—as opposed to Paris Hilton glittery (ugh)—and blinds anyone gazing upon your beautiful mug to any and all imperfections. In short, it’s the easiest way to fake perfect skin ever. Just use it as a primer, dab a bit of concealer around your nose and any problem areas, and you’re done. That’s it. Now get outta here. :D

Beauty Wonkette explores the world of yoga pants

2009-09-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

LET'S HEAR IT FOR YOGA PANTS!!! We all have them, and we all wear them for a million things in addition to yoga, Pilates, and generally working out. But, if you want a really good pair of yoga pants that will actually work for, you know, yoga, there are a few things to look for.

Beauty Wonkette is a big fan of Lucy (capris and pants range around $60 to $90). They've recently come out with a new material called lucy powermaxTMv, which is used in their newest styles, the Vinyasa Pant and Vinyasa Capri. They offer: Compression to reduce muscle fatigue, moisture-wicking properties, anti-chafe flat locked seams, four-way stretch that retains its shape, plus, a flattering crossover waistband.

But don't just rely on Beauty Wonkette's favs. BW has scoured the 'net for the opinions of well-known yoga instructors about what brands and styles they like best, as well as how pricey is too pricey.

Jenny Gammello, the instructor leading NY Yoga's Yoga for Runners classes, prefers pants with less fabric. "This way there's nothing in the way and you (and your teacher) can see the placement of your knees and ankles in order to keep your joints safe," she explains. She avoids shorts as well, particularly when she's doing a sweaty class, to avoid slipping in arm balances.

Gammello has a few favorites, with her top pick being Shakti Activewear's pants and shorts (prices range from around $60 to $75), but she also likes Lululemon (approximate prices are $70 to $110), saying, "They've just come out with a pant with a soft waist that is a little more flattering and doesn't dig into the hips as much as their regular low rise pants do." Specifically, she leans toward her Wonder Under tights.

She recommends Be Present (prices go from about $70 to $80) pants for folks who shy away from form-fitting pants. The trademark slits in the calf offer plenty of movement, which Gammello finds to be a bit much, but has students "who swear by them."

Sage Rountree, yoga instructor, coach and author of "The Athlete's Guide to Yoga," is a little impartial, as she is sponsored by Athleta ($30 to $80). However, the woman knows what she likes.

"I live in yoga pants; I refuse to wear jeans anymore," she says. She especially loves her Athleta Inhale pants and Remedy pants, and says she gets tons of compliments on her Lotus capris. There are five things she looks for when it comes to yoga pants:

* smooth waistband,
* gusseted crotch (infinitely more comfortable, lies smoother and provides the option of going panty-less, which is nice for those of us used to bike shorts or compression running shorts),
* stretch, which is a big part of ...
* comfort (you don't want to be distracted and fussing with your pants during your practice) and
* durability, since they will be washed many times over.

Now, you're probably noticing that most of these options aren't super cheap. And I feel your pain -- it's hard to spend close to $100 on something you're planning to wear while you sweat! As Rountree says, "Here, you often get what you pay for. I think $80 isn't unreasonable if it means the pants' fabric is thick or opaque enough for you to be in downward-facing dog without showing off the print in your underwear."

Fortunately, Gammello knows a good bit about sniffing out a bargain. First of all, she recommends trying out the pants in the dressing room. After all, even if they're on sale, you're only getting a deal if you'll wear them. "Try out your favorite poses and if the pants don't enhance your practice, don't buy them!" she says.

Then, if you learn your favorite brands and know your size, shop Ebay. "You can find a really great 'with tags, never been worn' steal," she says, explaining that she just got a name brand yoga outfit for $20, "but only if you've tried them on somewhere!"

Additionally, you'll want to make them last, especially if you spend top dollar on them. Gammello warns against pants with too much cotton -- "They'll start to carry that lovely, sweaty mildew smell and then you might as well chuck 'em," -- and suggests washing your pants gently. "If you can get a away with it, soak them in the sink and wring them out to dry on a drying rack," says Gammello.

Finally, be sure to watch your favorite sites for deals. Once you know the styles and sizes you like, watch for colors to be discontinued. Some manufacturers, like Shakti Activewear, sometimes offer discounted "second quality" items that are a slightly darker dye or have a somewhat shorter inseam, but are still totally wearable.

Oh, yeah, before Beauty Wonkette forgets..... DO ACTUALLY WORKOUT ! ;-D

Get Orlando Pita’s “really cool girl walking down the street” hair

2009-09-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

Over the past week, Beauty Wonkette has seen the top hairstylists from around the world create amazing looks for various designers’ fashion shows. At Doo.Ri, however, Beauty Wonkette fell in love. Orlando Pita’s “really cool girl walking down the street” hair, as he called it, was beautiful. Lucky for you and me, it’s super easy to replicate and truly perfect if you're growing out your bangs!

You see, Pita WANTED the models to look as though they had grown tired of their bangs and were in the midst of growing them out (even if they weren't). He described the style as “real people hair,” but not all of the models were growing out bangs, so extensions had to be added. “The look is natural and normal, but it takes time,” he told me. Beauty Wonkette, however, IS in the process of growing out her bangs (sorta), which means no extensions are required!

To start, Pita flat-ironed the bangs and hair, applying Moroccanoil Treatment since the models’ hair was fried from all the styling that’s been done to it during Fashion Week. Then, after pushing the bangs off to the side, Pita pulled the rest of the hair into a low ponytail. Finally, he twisted the hair under and off to the side and pinned it into place.

The result is a casual ‘do that reminds BW of a chic, Eurogal; you know what I mean - someone who has great personal style but doesn’t look overly put-together. It’s gotten major compliments around the office, and I love having a new way to pull my hair back that’s a little more dressed-up looking than a regular ole ponytail.

buzzworthy........ buzzzzzzzzzz

2009-09-01T17:16:00.000-07:00

You know by now that wherever there is beauty buzz, there is also likely to be Beauty Wonkette, oui?

Well, as a follow up to last year’s skin product sensation “h” Serum, comes 3LAB’s new Super “h” Serum. This new serum is causing quite a stir amongst Hollywood celebs, as well as being sold out and wait-listed in Selfridges in London. Erica Chung, co-founder of 3LAB, and adds some meat to all the buzz…

Question: What’s the difference between ‘h’ Serium and Super ‘h’ Serum”?

Erica Chung: Super “h” Serum contains Nano-Claire GY (our bio-engineered growth hormone), plant stem cell technology from a rare Swiss Apple and EUK-134, a powerful antioxidant. It is a super powered anti-aging booster that gives an immediate and long-term effect. “h” Serum is wonderful for prevention and Super “h” Serum contains the most technologically advanced ingredients. It utilizes the newest technology to fight the signs of aging. When I use it, my skin glows! “h” Serum is hydrating and anti-aging but the Super “h” Serum is firming, anti-aging and preventative aging.

We sell both formulas. “h” formula is for younger skin seeking preventative solutions, while Super “h” Serum targets wrinkles, evens out skin tone, and repairs UV damage,

Question: We know of another company that uses the green apple from Switzerland in their products. Is this a skin care trend of an ingredient that is newly discovered?

Erica Chung: Actually, people have been studying stem cells in cosmetics for a while but up until now, it has been too new to use. Through our third party clinical trials, we’ve found that the results are really significant...

Hmmm... Interesting, eh?

Currently available at: Barneys, Bliss and http://www.blissworld.com

HAIR TRAVELS: Amazon Beauty secrets

2009-09-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

YES, YES, YES !!! Beauty Wonkette vacationed in Brazil. But, alas, she didn't make it to the rain forest. Now, apparently, in the Amazon rainforest, you may not have the luxury of an everyday shampoo session. But no matter - bringing the Amazon to use is easier than bringing us to it. With Amazon Beauty Rahua, your shampoo and conditioner will transport you there instantly by way of the unique Rahua nut ingredient that fortifies hair. It's 100 percent natural and will definitely help you channel the beauty of tribal Amazonian women.

WAIT !!! There's more! The Brazilian wonderland has another native hair product for dry hair sufferers: Amazonia Preciosa Brazil Nut Nutritive Hair Mask from Surya Brasil. Named after the Preciosa tree, the products have essential oils that emit an exotic and ohhhhh so seductive fragrance. Beauty Wonkette doesn't have dry hair, but this stuff smells so incredibly good that she had to try it. Only you're a truly oily haired girl, this WILL work for you. And that fragrance - OMG OMG OMG - this stuff will stimulate your senses as well as your hair follicles.

HAIR TRAVELS: go east young Beauty Wonkette...

2009-09-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette has had her eye on this for QUITE some time! While the Japanese surely have a hold on sushi and eyelash curlers (Shu Uemura, of course), they also have a few hair tricks up their sleeve that - fortunately - they are sharing with the rest of us. New Japanese hair care system OOKISA incorporates natural botanicals like white peony tea and lily as well as Japanese lime and camellia oil. The Nighttime Follicle Renewing Serum is Beauty Wonkette's favorite product in the line. It contains a blend of bioflavonoids, vitamins, and patented Procapil, proven to nourish the hair shaft and thicken hair. It is LOVELY stuff.....

check out the line at http://www.ookisa.com

HAIR TRAVELS: calling Casablanca...

2009-09-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Next up in the Beauty Wonkette travelogue...

Yes, Beauty Wonkette has sung the praises of the line before. With a well deserved cult following, Moroccanoil products have become a must for any exotic-ingredient-loving wonkette. The products use Argan oil harvested under a free trade program to strengthen and recondition each individual strand. If you can't get to Casablanca, slap some of this on your hair, grab the popcorn, and watch Bogie navigate the city...

HAIR TRAVELS: reinvigorate in the Caribbean

2009-09-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette is back from her international travels.... 'Twas great and although I love the good ole USA, the fact that the only traveling Beauty Wonkette is going to be doing for the next few months is INSIDE the United States, she's a little bit bummed atm. In any case, to help escape the doldrums of a mundane schedule with little or no time for exotic escapes, Beauty Wonkette has decided to bring you some bringing globally-inspired hair products. Cleanse, condition, treat and style your hair with these and both of us may feel just a teensy bit better about not traveling any exotic locales for a little while. Just wait till next year though...

Okay - first up!

Launched last year, and inspired by Caribbean notes of zesty citrus, clean florals and warms spices, Hair Rules is a line of products developed for all textured hair, designed to be easy to use and effective. The line's Wavy Mouse bares the brand's wavy logo that will remind you of your college spring break ;-)

Make-up for your alter ego....

2009-08-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

From across the pond comes Illamasqua, an edgy line of makeup with a heart of gold. (The never-tested-on-animals brand also supports worthy causes.) Known for their intense colors and dramatic makeup, Illamasqua is your go-to brand for nighttime makeup—whether it's an evening out at the opera or the dance club. Conceived amidst the dark drama of Berlin in the 20s, Illamasqua was developed by professional makeup artists and launched in 2008 in the U.K. Embraced by celebs and alternative cultures alike, their colors allow you to express your most daring, boldest, and most intense sides with professional nighttime makeup that's richly pigmented and long lasting. Are you ready to release your night-vixen alter ego?

Currently, it's sold only at Sephora and you simply have got to check it out!

• Eye-catching Nail Varnishes ($14) help you make a bold statement. Try the daring hues on your tootsies if you just want to dip your toe in the trend.

• Eye Liner Cake ($21), a pressed-powder product, lets you create a dramatic look.

• Lightweight Liquid Metal (Beauty Wonkette's personal favorite) ($24; pictured) adds shimmer wherever you need it: on your eyes, cheekbones, or body. Go for the gold!

Everybody MUST get STONED....

2009-08-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Is Beauty Wonkette celebrating the 40th anniversary of Woodstock? Nahhhhhhh..... This is about getting a spa-worthy massage for $25!

Regular massages fight colds, PMS and the blues--plus they feel blissful, to boot. But who has the time (and cash) to see a masseuse every week?

So when Beauty Wonkette stumbled on JimmyJane's Contour M ceramic massage stone, our tense shoulders and stiff neck practically yelped at the chance to get some much-kneaded attention. Use these tricks and you'll be addicted, too:

Rub the right way.
The domed side of the stone serves as an all-over muscle relaxer; the flip side features four small nodes that go deep into muscle tissue to iron out serious kinks.

Turn up the heat.
Dunk the stone in a bowl of hot water for a soothing rubdown. Just add a drizzle of your favorite massage oil and you'll turn your tight muscles to jelly.

Take a chill pill.
One morning, our A/C wasn't working fast enough, so we stuck the stone in the fridge for a few minutes. Rubbing the cool ceramic on our overheated neck and shoulder muscles jolted us awake.

Beauty Wonkette is sure your guy would like to get stoned too! Hell, it wouldn't hurt your mom and dad to get stoned either. :D

Beauty Wonkette's Plea to Guys Everywhere: DON'T SHAVE YOUR JUNK

2009-08-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back, Gillette launched this giant campaign encouraging guys to manscape. It really grossed Beauty Wonkette out, even more so than their women's "mow the lawn" ads, which were just dumb (and this from a gal dedicated to brazilians).

After a few conversations with guy friends drunk on hairless-ball kool-aid, Beauty Wonkette realized that, holy cow, these ads were indeed making men think they should be shaving their balls. Guys. Please. Take it from us, the ones on the, uh, receiving end of this grooming trend. A shorn coinpurse is about as sexy as a raw cornish game hen. Seriously.

Suffering a Summergency? Read this before calling 911

2009-08-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Summer isn't all scoping out hot lifeguards and ditching work early on Fridays. Oh, no. The season is rife with nasty surprises -- sunburns, bikini lines gone wrong, and shaving mishaps. Here, Beauty Wonkette helps you treat some of these common summertime snafus.

The Summergency: A painful sunburn in a lovely shade of Carrot Top red.
The Remedy: For starters, try wearing sunblock next time, genius. Until then, ease the pain of the burn by popping a couple of aspirin, bathing in cool water (adding oatmeal to the bath can help soothe skin), and applying a healing aloe gel and/or after-sun treatment to the affected areas. Drinking lots of water will help you feel less dehydrated. You can also try applying honey or white vinegar to the damaged skin to help it heal.

The Summergency: Your skin is peeling off in big sheets.
The Remedy: For some, peeling skin is like bubble wrap -- you just can't get enough. For the rest of us, it's gross, unsightly, and makes us think of Buffalo Bill's fleshwear (shudder). To avoid the dreaded Saran Wrap-skin syndrome, take a cold shower or bath, which will slow down the peeling process. Post-shower, apply a hydrating aloe vera lotion, which will soothe the skin, fight dryness and help you avoid infections. Do your best to avoid picking and peeling at the skin, even if it itches. Scratching can lead to scars and infections, so simply trim excess skin with a small pair of scissors and apply an antibacterial cream over the area. The bright side: It will all be over in a few days.

The Summergency: Your sweaty pits are leaking onto your clothes.
The Remedy: Sweat stains are the pits, aren't they? Showering daily and wearing a strong, effective deodorant is the first step to avoiding this pitfall. You should also avoid synthetic fabrics in favor of something breathable like cotton; also wear loose garments rather than tight tops that hug the armpit. If you do sweat through a shirt, try to remove the sweat soon as you can, because sweat is acidic and can cause a permanent stain if left untreated. A trick to try: Apply shampoo to the sweaty area, then rinse in cold water. Many also swear by white vinegar and aspirin mixed with water to treat pit stains.

The Summergency: You were too broke for the Brazilian so you went for the recessionista bikini shave ... and have the rash to prove it.
The Remedy: Using a razor to keep our bikini lines tidy is cheaper than a wax or hair removal cream, but it increases the risk of inflammation and ingrown hairs. For the latter, use tweezers to pick out any rogue hairs. As for those painful red bumps, hydrocortisone cream, witch hazel, aloe vera and apple cider vinegar can all help soothe the burn. You can apply lotion to the area, but be sure that it is free from perfumes or dyes, which will further irritate the area. Try to stay out of the water until the rash goes away, as salt water can make the area sting. And to avoid this pesky problem next time you shave, be sure to use shaving gel, shave with the grain, and use a new, sharp razor blade.

Pucker up!

2009-08-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you like to brighten your teeth, freshen breath and prettify your pout with just one swipe? Beauty Wonkette surely would! Well, my sweet wonkettes, read on...

They say the pen is mightier than the sword.

And when it comes to getting a brighter, more beautiful smile, using IntelliWhite's Pout & Polish pen regularly might keep you from ever needing a harsh laser or bleaching kit.

The dual-sided pen packs a gentle stain remover on one end, and a vitamin-packed lip-plumping gloss (in clear or sheer pink) that freshens your breath on the other. And thanks to a breakthrough peroxide-free formula, it's the first stain remover that's safe to use all day long (and on dental work). Whip it out after a cup of tea, coffee or a glass of red wine to polish your pearly whites before stains set.

Pencil us in for a stellar smile.

Have you got Moxie?

2009-08-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette is grateful to Australia for Eric Bana, Russell Crowe, and shrimp on the barbie. Now, we can add Moxie to the list.

The down under import for down there just arrived at Duane Reade stores. And they ain't your mama's pads. The super-slim and sleek feminine hygiene goods come in cute candy-striped containers that just beg to be toted around. Besides being adorable, the tins mean gone are the days of fishing out your wallet, only to have a crumb-crusted, ink-stained panty liner fall out instead.

The 100% recyclable products include Slenders Pads ($6.50 for 12), Sleepover Pads ($6.50 for 10) so you can snooze through the night without worry, and the Slenders Panty Liners ($6 for 24) for light days.

Your white pants--and your handbag--have never looked so good.

A new cult is about to be born!

2009-08-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

If you're not familiar with Yu-Be, its cult following (which includes almost the entire population of Japan) and Beauty Wonkette collectively pities you. Around for half a century, this pharmacist-founded brand is best-known for its medicated Moisturizing Skin Cream; and for years, it's all they made. Recently, however, they launched a few new products, one of which is decidedly not a moisturizer.

When Beauty Wonkette saw that Yu-Be had stepped outside of their specialty to create a Foaming Skin Polish, we were initially skeptical. "Stick to what you know," is common advice. But ultimately, we're sooo glad Yu-Be expanded their horizons with this face-and-body cleansing scrub because it has rocked Beauty Wonkette's world.

Rice bran, walnut and bamboo are used for exfoliation, ginger and ginseng provide toning benefits, and camphor, geranium and green tea simultaneously calm and energize your skin. The paraben- and sulfate-free formula washes without harsh consequences.

And while this may not be a moisturizer, per se, it does, indeed, moisturize. The glycerin found in Yu-Be creams is also in Foaming Skin Polish, so your now-smoother skin feels softer and healthier, too.

a 7oz tube is $18 at Sephora - online only !

Arm yourself!!!

2009-08-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

No matter the body type, one particular part of the female physique seems to garner the most complaints from its owners: the upper arm. (And almost all of us have two of them! Alas!) Whether you feel they're too thick or unforgivably flabby, their current condition may have you moving sleeveless tops to the back of your closet.

Now Beauty Wonkette thinks the ultimate solution to this problem is fairly easily solved with lots and lots of bicep curls, tricep extensions, dips, (pant, pant, sweat, sweat....), but Beauty Wonkette's lovely Aunt Suzy is, shall we say, not from the sweat set.

Well, there are lots of firming body creams out there, but Beauty Wonkette has to give Orlane kudos for recognizing the unique changes our arms go through with age—loss of density and elasticity, slowed circulation, fat accumulation—and formulating a cream specifically for this area. The ingredients of Refining Arm Cream were meticulously selected for the impact they can have up our sleeves.

Specifically, Orlane has chosen shiitake mushroom due to its ability to codify collagen; Peruvian golden chamomile, for its draining and preventative effects on fatty masses; and an almond protein compound that can hold onto tissues in such a way that it seemingly redefines your arms.

If you commit yourself to twice-a-day application, Orlane says you'll see firmer, more toned arms in less than two months. In fact, everyone will see firmer, more toned arms, because you'll finally start going sleeveless again! Beauty Wonkette's Aunt Suzy is very happy with the stuff and you can pick it up in just about any fine department store....

Cross the Bklyn Bridge for Skinny Skinny :D

2009-08-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

It's easy to get stuck in a beauty rut, but trust Beauty Wonkette, it's just as easy to break out of one. Typically use a body lotion to moisturize? Try switching to an oil. Never pay attention to what's in your products? Give organic ingredients a shot. And it just so happens that today, Beauty Wonkette can recommend something that fits both bills.

Wind-powered, Brooklyn-based brand skinnyskinny — there are multiple meanings behind its name, none of which involve weight — offers a host of certified-organic goods, of which Beauty Wonkette's current favorite is the Botanically-Infused Jasmine & Green Tea Body Oil.

Packaged in a recyclable glass pump with a biodegradable label, this vegan recipe infuses skin with the soothing, nourishing benefits of oils from its title ingredients, jojoba, chamomile, rose, lavender, calendula, hemp seed, coconut, and borage. Almost magical in so many ways, it absorbs instantly, leaving behind only soft, subtly scented skin—and that scent is sublime.

We love the indie-chic feel of skinnyskinny's eco-friendly presentation just as much as the product itself. But it's how Botanically-Infused Jasmine & Green Tea Body Oil leaves our skin (and conscience) feeling that we appreciate most.

If you buy it now, they'll also throw in a free lip balm, and we allllll love freebies!

Happy happy feet :D

2009-07-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Woof woof!

Your dogs are barking.

You put your toesies through a lot: Unsupportive flip flops, impossible high heels and the occasional running blister.

Now you can get the body benefits of yoga--for your feet. Pamper your tootsies with the new Flex-Tastic foot exerciser.

It looks like the toe separators you use while your pedicure dries, but this little gizmo makes your feet feel pretty, too. Just wriggle your toes through the Flex-Tastic to stretch, straighten and realign your tootsies. The company claims regular use will help ease tension in your feet and legs and boost flexibility and circulation. You're supposed to get results with as little as 5 minutes a day, but Beauty Wonkette likes to flex her feet while watching her favorite trashy TV show.

And unlike other similar gadgets, the Flex-Tastic costs less than $10.

Calling all NYC Wonkettes!!!

2009-07-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

They say that the most beautiful women in the world reside in New York City and well who is Beauty Wonkette to argue? Sure, alot of it is due to the innate confidence of NYC gals, but we can’t turn a blind eye to the salons, spas and beauty events on every corner and at our disposal 24/7. So in celebration of NYC beauty, here’s an event sure to keep you as fabulous as ever.

One of Beauty Wonkette's favorite natural beauty brands is offering up a serious deal for you. The Aveda Institute New York is offering complimentary mini-facials chock full of Aveda’s botanically-derived skincare. All treatments last 30 minutes, are customized to your specific skincare needs and are performed by senior Aveda Institute students under the guidance of experienced instructors. After each treatment, students will recommend a regimen of Aveda products best suited for your skin type and if you purchase $50 in Aveda products, you’ll receive $20 off of any Institute service. Be sure to schedule your appointment right away, as space is limited.

The Aveda Institute New York, 233 Spring Street between 6th Avenue and Varick, Appointments and information: 212.807.1492, ext. 4

You've been a VERY bad girl !!!

2009-07-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

You've got a secret, and you're desperate to keep it under wraps. You surely don't want Beauty Wonkette to find out now, do ya?

Maybe you played hooky to hit the beach. Or perhaps you threw caution to the wind and sauntered outside sans sunscreen. Either way, you got burned.

Beekman 1802 After-the-Sun soap hides the evidence--no questions asked. The bars are made with goat's milk to remove chemical residue from sunscreen and keep skin soft and moisturized. Ingredients like organic green tea extract, olive oil, lavender and aloe vera help jump start the healing process. And because the soaps are free of chemicals and artificial fragrances, they won't irritate scorched skin. Each package contains 10 mini bars, so you can sneak one in your bag and discretely lather up after a beach tryst or an afternoon romp. Yes, you have been BAAAD! But being a kind and forgiving Beauty Wonkette, I'm gonna help you out... You can grab this magic soap here :D

Grin and Bare it When in NYC

2009-07-27T06:01:00.000-07:00

Always in search of a better--and more affordable--bikini wax, Beauty Wonkette's intrepid New York big sis ventured to Boom Boom Beauty Bar where prices have been reduced to a mere $39 for the whole shebang. Here's the scoop:

Having owner Malynda Vigliotti (aka Boom Boom) de-fuzz down there is sort of like having a pal do the job, which sounds weird but it's not. Malynda puts you totally at ease and gets the job done swiftly and efficiently.

No double-dipping. This is Malynda's motto. You can trust that she'll use a fresh stick with every swipe. (For coarse patches, she also uses dry wax--it pulls off hair in one quick tug.)

Take a brow. Congratulate yourself on a bikini wax well done and enjoy some expert brow grooming for only $18. Malynda gently tidies up rogue strands and creates a natural shape.

Looks like smooth sailing from here on out.

Boom Boom Beauty Bar, 35 7th Ave., (212) 229-BOOM,

Eye spy

2009-07-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

Although Beauty Wonkette is not all that big on makeup, the one product that she DOES use with moderate fanaticism is mascara. Seriously, Beauty Wonkette is happy when her lashes are sufficiently blackened, lengthened, and separated before she hits the road.

And with all of the random oscillating and polymer-coating mascaras out there, BW is frankly shocked that it took so long for someone to come up with this awesome one-handed mascara applicator.

We haven’t tried it yet, but we’re totally loving its pen-like structure.

The cap can be put onto the end of the wand, and the brush appears when you move a tiny slider. Plus, it’s designed so that air can’t get into the container so your mascara stays clump free and fresh for a super long time.

And really, no one wants to search the floor of their bathroom for their mascara cap that always manages to roll away the second it hits a flat surface.

Mascara Noir is made by Belvada and will retail for $25 when it hits salons later this month. Keep an eye out for it (no pun intended ;-)

Another reason to love NY (AND Andy Cuomo....

2009-07-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette remembers when a couple of years ago, there was a bit of a stir in the film industry about manufactured critic quotes being used in trailers and DVD releases to deceive audiences. And while the studios took some flack, no major legal battles ensued that Beauty Wonkette is aware of.

Now, fake reviews of a different sort are the focus of an initiative by New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo - and the beauty industry is up first. The AG’s office has recently been going after websites that post phony consumer reviews and comments about their products and procedures. It’s referred to as “astroturfing”, referencing the fake surface used on sporting fields.

A settlement has now been reached in the first case against a company called Lifestyle Lift which offers a “face-firming” procedure where they’ve agreed to pay $300,000 to the state of New York.

Like with any website that allows reader input and interaction, it can be difficult to discern which reviews/comments are legit and honest and which are bogus. But you know something’s up when the company sends an email out to its staff that reads “Friday is going to be a slow day - I need you to devote the day to doing more postings on the web as a satisfied client.” We’re guessing this was a key email in getting that settlement.

Cuomo’s crew is not stopping anytime soon. So fakers beware.

How do you guys judge what you trust and what you don’t? Beauty Wonkette is NOT A CYNIC, but usually is of the mentality that if something sounds way too good to be true, it often is.

Brush stroke....

2009-07-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

A well-made makeup brush doesn't come cheap; you can easily spend $50 on a single foundation brush, or three figures on a ritzy set. However, to celebrate Nordstrom's annual anniversary sale, Beauty Wonkette's good friends (ahem, ok, ok - I don't know those people from Adam but still....) at Lancôme have created a four-piece set that's running for a paltry $52 ($119.50 value). "Declaring Indigo" comes with a high-gloss patent case, brushes for foundation, blending, blush, and a dual-tip one for eyes — all in chic indigo and black. Take it from Beauty Wonkette: makeup utensils never looked so fabulous.

$52 at Nordstrom.com

Dr. Look Good is making free mouse calls....

2009-07-16T06:04:00.000-07:00

Ok my fellow Beauty Wonkettes, this is too good to pass up!

Nab some free face time with a Beverly Hills dermatologist.

The doctor is in...your inbox.

Suffering from skin that's itchy? Sun damaged? Acne-prone? Are you buried under jars of face potions?

Whatever ails you, Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi is here to help--and he won't charge you a penny for his expertise. Just surf over to his site and ask for a "Mouse Call." Instead of making an appointment and shelling out $300 for an office visit, you just fill out a fast questionnaire about your skin issues and the products you currently use. In about a day, you'll receive a detailed response directly from Obagi or his team. Online consultations are free until August, when the price goes back to the usual $75.

Beauty Wonkette was VERY pleasantly surprised that Obagi didn't try to push products on us when we told him our sensitive skin woes. Check out a sample consultation here.

Drop Dr. 90201 a line and stop playing cat and mouse with your skin care routine.

tip toe.... or TOE TIP :D

2009-07-14T07:02:00.000-07:00

Ack! Tip toe, toe tip WHATEVAH! Bottom line (no pun intended here), Beauty Wonkette's (aka LOVER OF STILETTOS)feet are under ALOT of pressure. Yours too? Then it's time to some sole-searching and give your treasured tootsies some much-needed TLC. After all, you can’t get very far without them. Choose a scrub that’s developed particularly for feet, with granules for physical exfoliation and alpha hydroxy acids to chemically peel away dead skin. Beauty Wonkette is currently obsessed with Creative Nail Design’s Earth Warming Scrub because it becomes a moisturizing oil post-rinse, leaving your feet ready for your next step. Here's what CND says about it:

WHAT IT IS:

Warming, raw-sugar A.H.A. foot scrub that exfoliates, polishes, smooths and refines.

WHAT IT DOES:

• Provides instant warmth when activated by water.
• Provides triple-action exfoliation:
– micro-abrasion with raw sugar.
– once dissolved, the citric acid can penetrate the skin.
– warming action opens pores allowing deeper penetration of A.H.A.’s.

WHY YOU NEED IT:

• Water-activated warming effect provides comfort and adds an element of surprise.
• Provides progressive smoothing and polishing to reveal silky, beautiful skin.
• Soothes the senses with aromatherapeutic ylang ylang, lavender and geranium.

P.S. If you are really in the mood to pamper yourself, Beauty Wonkette HIGHLY recommends CND's Spa Pedicure Earth Moisture Masque too!

Body beautiful....

2009-07-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

In Beauty Wonkette's perfect world, we all would (and COULD) be spending copious amounts of time and money on spa treatments every week. Alas, that may not be feasible for everyone (errrr ANYONE), so Beauty Wonkette urges you to take time out for yourself, even if only once in a while. If it’s in your budget, do what BW recently did, and go for a full-body overhaul, like the African Red Tea Body Cocktail purifying treatment at a Ole Henriksen spa. It will exfoliate and allow your skin to detox while someone rubs you down (moannnn). If you can’t splurge for the on-site real deal, fork over some dough for an at-home DIY version. The African Red Tea Body Collection ($65; www.sephora.com), which includes a body scrub, mask, and soufflé, nourishes your skin from head to toe. The rejuvenating powers of African Red Tea are Ole's secret to beautiful skin thanks to the tea's skin-strengthening minerals and free-radical-fighting antioxidants that help slow down the signs of aging. Beauty Wonkette's verdict: most definitely worth the time spent.

Bring on the humidity! Beauty Wonkette ain't skeered...

2009-07-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

The weather had gotten truly gotten to Beauty Wonkette and, more importantly, to Beauty Wonkette's locks. A couple of weeks ago, work took me to a city on the Gulf at the height of absolutely gross, soupy, swampy weather. As usual, Beauty Wonkette was in a hurry when packing and failed to bring her beloved Moroccan Cream. Nor did she remember the No Frizz. Soooooo, without a decent beauty supply store in sight (or on site), she did what she could with what was at hand. She oiled, sprayed, puttied, and even gelled ( do NOT ask ) her tresses in hopes of taming the frizz. All to no avail.

Then, roaming around a mall that did NOT have a Sephora, in low spirits (read utter despair), Beauty Wonkette happened upon a Lush store (in the most unlike place, it seemed)! Although no fan of Lush, BW was desperate, and so, on a whim, bought the Jasmine and Henna Fluff Eaze treatment. Skeptical at the saleswoman's claims that this would cure BW's puffball hair, she purchased it anyway and trudged back to her hotel and piled a dollop on her locks. (Note: Use a lot less than the jar says.) After letting it sit for twenty minutes and shampooing (twice), previously puffy hair was silky smooth, not greasy, and smelled amazing. And it was shockingly knot free. Humidity, do your worst- BRING IT ON! :D

7.8oz - $20.45

SUGAR SHOCK

2009-07-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette warns you that you will NEVER look at soda (or condiments, or salad dressing) the same way after seeing this.

Beauty Wonkette believes we may all have a problem. A sugar problem.

Now, now, hear Beauty Wonkette out.

You try reading nutrition labels. But who the hell knows just how much a gram of sugar actually is, anyway? Luckily, a spanking-new site called Sugar Stacks does all the work for you. It uses photos of sugar cubes to show you just how the sugar in your favorite foods stack up, literally (there's 4 grams of sugar in each cube).

Are you sitting down? That bottle of orange juice in your hand? It contains about 11 cubes of the sweet stuff. That translates to 192 calories from sugar alone!

That energy bar in your purse? That's like gobbling 5.5 sugar cubes in one sitting.

Beauty Wonkette is only doing this because she loves you. The first step is admitting you have a problem. Soon, you'll kick your sugar habit (and cut empty calories) for good. Remember, O N E D A Y A T A T I M E ;-)

Saving face.......AND 25%

2009-07-09T06:42:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette knows that recessionistas everywhere are on the lookout for savings. Well, save your face (and your body and your hands and your lips...) with Juara.

JUARA is a unique fusion of natural Indonesian skincare treatments of ancient royalty and modern science. Utilizing high concentrations of pure and powerful active botanicals native to this lush tropical archipelago, JUARA's effective yet safe and gentle skincare line focuses on maintaining skin wellness, while feeling luxurious, elegant, and sensual to the touch.

For instance, Beauty Wonkette lovessss Juara's SPF20 Candlenut lip balm. It protects your pucker from UVA and UVB rays, is chicly packaged, odorless, paraben free, and loaded with linoleic rich candlenut oil and rich anti-oxidants.

Now, fellow Beauty Wonkettes, you can get 25% all Juara products AND shipping is gratis on orders over $75. Just enter code LUXEJUARA at checkout.

Unfortunately, zits are NOT just for kids :(

2009-07-01T15:35:00.001-07:00

And because they are not, Beauty Wonkette brings you Sonya Dakar's Zit Zapping Recipe....

When you graduated from high school, you were probably looking forward to a life free of catty gossip, unrequited crushes, and ACNE.

Talk about a letdown. Turns out grown-up life is plagued with all the same problems. And the worst of it all? Breakouts. Clearly the most horrific reminder of adolescence this side of the yearbook photo. Still, adult acne calls for adult measures. Well, Beauty Wonkette is here to tell you to trade in those Stridex pads for this simple at-home zit-zapping recipe from L.A.’s skin guru Sonya Dakar.

Goods: one package of dry yeast, water (opt for the Evian), and fresh lemon juice.

Method: Pour yeast into a bowl and add water one drop at a time (approximately two tablespoons of water). Mix well after each drop until the mixture turns to a medium paste. Add a drop or two of lemon juice once the yeast has been mixed with the water, and keep stirring until the juice is blended in. Dab the stuff on your dots (but be sure to give it time to dry before hiding under the covers).

Worth a try. It’s cost-effective and a good alternative to throwing a tantrum and calling in sick.

Because you really are too grown-up to be making a mountain out of a molehill.

For more information about Sonya Dakar’s products, go to sonyadakar.com.

Maybe you CAN catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, buttttt......

2009-06-30T17:07:00.001-07:00

What Beauty Wonkette wants to know is why would you want to (catch yucky flies, that is)?

Besides, Beauty Wonkette likes vinegar. Apple cider vinegar makes BW's hair all purdy and shiney and it makes a damn good skin toner. Now, there is new evidence that vinegar may truly be a natural fat fighter!

Researchers in Japan are reporting new evidence that the ordinary vinegar - a staple in oil-and-vinegar salad dressings, pickles, and other foods - may live up to its age-old reputation in folk medicine as a health promoter. They are reporting new evidence that vinegar can help prevent accumulation of body fat and weight gain. Their study is scheduled for the July 8 issue of ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, a bi-weekly publication.

Tomoo Kondo and colleagues note in the new study that vinegar has also been used as a folk medicine since ancient times. People have used it for a range of ills. Modern scientific research suggests that acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, may help control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and fat accumulation.

Their new study showed that laboratory mice fed a high-fat diet and given acetic acid developed significantly less body fat (up to 10 percent less) than other mice. Importantly, the new research adds evidence to the belief that acetic acid fights fat by turning on genes for fatty acid oxidation enzymes. The genes churn out proteins involved in breaking down fats, thus suppressing body fat accumulation in the body.

Beauty Wonkette wonders if this is also true with 40 year old balsamic vinegar. Yummmmmmmmmy. :D

Source
American Chemical Society

Assume the uhhhh POSITION....

2009-06-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Banish sunburns forever with the flick of your wrist.

Beauty Wonkette hears that ou've been a bad, bad girl. You've been criminally lax when it comes to your sunscreen routine.

Ohhhhhh sure, you stock up on the best lotions and potions, but somehow, you always forget to re-apply. The punishment? Sunburns (ouchies).

Luckily, Beauty Wonkette has found one accessory that doubles as your "get out of jail free" card. Just slip on the UVSunSense bracelet before you hit the beach or the pool!

Here's how it works: While you're applying sunscreen, use a dab of lotion to coat the wristband where it says "Apply sunscreen to this side." The band will turn purple, indicating it's been activated. When you've absorbed too many harmful UV rays, the band morphs to brown signaling it's time to reapply. And when the words dissappear altogether, it's time to abort your tanning mission and run for cover.

Beauty Wonkette is sooooo good to you :D. Grab these for $5.57 for a pack of 7 right here

Put away that Dust Buster !!!

2009-06-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been so frustrated by blackheads that you want to take a Dust Buster to your face and just suck them all out? Beauty Wonkette doesn't recommend doing that ( has Beauty Wonkette ever told you about the time she took a Dust Buster to her dog's ever shedding triple coat....), but BW DOES recommend a new symbolic solution from Dr. Brandt.

Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner is a 10-minute mask that helps loosen up clogged pores and extract those heinous blackheads. It uses silicone dioxide to essentially pull out debris and extra sebum, while alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids — salicylic and glycolic acids to be precise — soften and smooth. A special rose-sourced ingredient tightens pores back up when the cleansing is complete.

Beauty Wonkette loves the cooling feeling Vacuum Cleaner creates as it does its duty, not to mention the bottle-matching blue it turns while you wear it. (And, yes, Beauty Wonkette is willing to look like a Smurf for a few minutes if it means no blackheads!)

Smooth operator....

2009-06-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

You can call Beauty Wonkette demanding, but we don't want our pores to be just unclogged - we want them to be tiny, eensy-weensy, virtually invisible to the naked eye. Is that so much to ask?

Well, if you're asking Renee Rouleau, then no.

This spa-owning aesthetician has created a resurfacing cream that looks and feels more like a cream, but works more like a super-scrubbing resurfacer. Micro Crystal Cream is a gentle, dreamy exfoliator that uses super-small crystal particles to reduce pores while helping to keep them clear. As it refines, it smoothes skin into a younger-looking state, complete with less discoloration.

Beauty Wonkette loves that it nourishes and soothes as it sloughs, leaving behind vitamins and botanical extracts like ginseng, horse chestnut, lavender and comfrey.

$37.50 at Renee Rouleau

Look! Over there... It's a cream; NO, it's a concealer.....

2009-06-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

It's Jemma Kidd's I-Rescue Bio-Complex Cover!!!

Beauty Wonkette happened upon this little gem when a bff complained that she thought she had a malfunctioning synapse in the beauty-routine section of her brain, specifically when it comes to the eye area. Apparently, when she remembers to apply eye cream, she forgets to apply concealer. When she remembers to apply concealer, she forgets to apply eye cream. She wept that she definitely needs both, so it's a rather inconvenient glitch.

Beauty Wonkette to the rescue! Fortunately for my friend and her flawed synapses, BW discovered a two-in-one wonder by Jemma Kidd, called I-Rescue Bio-Complex Cover. This tinted treatment is sheer genius! As it lightens up dark circles and sets a stable canvas for eye shadow, it also works to smooth fine lines, diminish puffiness and banish bags—not just conceal them for a little while.

It's more than makeup because of ingredients like palmitoyl oligopeptide (AKA Matrixyl) and beneficial botanical extracts such as butcher's broom, marigold, gotu kola and algae. But it's way more than an eye cream thanks to the flawless finish it leaves.

Thanks to I-Rescue (and Beauty Wonkette :D ), now you don't have to worry about forgetting one or the other—because they're one and the same! It comes in light, medium and dark shades and is available at DermStore for $52

A sad day ....

2009-06-25T20:42:00.000-07:00

Wading through a sea of skincare...

2009-06-16T16:43:00.000-07:00

Even though this skincare stuff is sort of Beauty Wonkette's gig, sometimes Beauty Wonkette just don’t know where to start. With products, that is; specifically, with the tidal wave of skin care that seems to arrive on the scene each month!

Each cream, serum and corrector is a little different from the next, yet they all promise something equally wonderful. But if you don’t take those promises at face value – and Beauty Wonkette absolutely does NOT – you need at least a few weeks to see if they actually work. So, how in the name of plump skin do you know what’s what?
I hooked up with two of my favorite dermatologists - one in D.C. and one in the Big Apple - to see what they had to say:

Beauty Wonkette: What advice would you give someone who is overwhelmed by the choice of moisturisers out there?
The Docs: Feel good about your choices and choose a product that’s right for right now. If your skin’s very dry at the moment, choose a thicker cream. When the weather warms up, you might go for a lighter gel-based moisturiser. But whatever you choose, stick with it and use it up. With so many products out there, it’s easy to feel the grass is always greener, but you need to give your chosen moisturiser a chance.

BW: But every cream promises something different – wrinkle-fighting, radiance-boosting, tone-correcting…. I want all those things but can’t go layering every product on the market. How do I whittle it down?
The Docs: Focus on three things in the morning and three things at night. For example, in the morning you could cleanse, apply a vitamin C-rich serum (vitamin C is a brilliant ingredient that helps lots of problems, including wrinkles and photo-aging], then layer over a moisturiser containing SPF. Skip the toner.

BW: What if I want to target a specific problem, for example uneven skin tone?
The Docs: Incorporate a targeted product in to your regimen, but choose one that’s multi-faceted and does more than its main function. For you, Use it at night instead of a serum, and follow with your favorite non-SPF moisturiser or night cream. Pick the right products and you can expect a lot.

BW: If you use a serum and a moisturiser at the same time, how do you know which one is working?
The Docs: Try the de-challenge, re-challenge technique: remove one product for a couple of weeks and see if you continue to get good results. If not, reintroduce it and see what happens. If so, you can consider substituting the ‘de-challenged’ product for something else.

God, they make it sound easy!

Fatal Extraction

2009-06-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette always thought one of the golden rules of skin care was that you should never do your own extractions. But according to skincare guru Liz Earle, it’s fine to DIY as long as you follow some basic guidelines:

1. Give skin a good cleanse first and only extract after a shower, bath or steam so skin is soft and easier to work.

2. Make sure your hands are scrupulously clean.

3. Always use a tissue – it’s kinder (and cleaner) on skin than bare nails.

4. Use a little plant-based oil on the area before you extract (extra virgin olive oil is a good one). It protects the skin and makes extractions easier.

5. Use a magnifying mirror or at least make sure you have plenty of light.

6. Don’t over-poke. If a black head or spot doesn’t budge after a bit of massaging around, leave it. (Think of extractions as an on-going part of your cleansing routine – you don’t have to get them all out every time but removing the worst will keep skin looking clear.)

7. Use a little antiseptic afterwards – diluted witch hazel or a few drops of tea tree oil on a damp cotton pad works fine.

8. Help eliminate black heads by always cleansing with a muslin cloth. "Within six weeks, your blackheads should have disappeared," says Liz. Use an oil based cleanser to loosen make-up and dirt, soak your muslin cloth in warm water and use it in firm strokes to clean up. If you’re prone to break-outs, shake a few drops of tea tree oil on to your damp cloth first.

Happy zapping from Liz Earle and Beauty Wonkette

Hey all you NYC gals (and guys). Join Beauty Wonkette on a SoHo stroll....

2009-06-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Walk, shop and unwind all for a worthy cause? Beauty Wonkette is in! How about 'choo?

No arm-twisting needed to get Beauty Wonkette on board for the SoHo Stroll (June 11-13). With the purchase of a $20 bracelet, you'll get discounts at shops and restaurants around the neighborhood--all proceeds go to The Association of Community Employment Programs for the Homeless. There's a slew of participating businesses, but we're sold on these deals:

• Stop by Delicatessen this week between 11AM and 4PM and pick up your official bracelet along with a free Deli cocktail. Cheers! 54 Prince St., (212) 226-0211

• Coiff it up at Aveda where you can pre-book to receive 30% off any hair service. 456 W. Broadway, (212) 473-0280

• Visit the iconic tennis brand Tretorn and score 20% off all shoes and clothes. (We love their old-school classic kicks.) 150 Spring St., (646) 454-9680

• Pamper yourself with hand and arm massages and mini-facials at Molton Brown. On Saturday afternoon, the store will also be serving sparkling wine and light bites. 128 Spring St., (212) 965-1740

• Satisfy a sweet craving without sabotaging your diet. Try a bite-sized cupcake from Baked By Melissa. (Buy 6 and get one free--a different flavor for all your friends.) 529 Broadway, (212) 842-0220

• End your trek at the new YogaWorks Soho for a free pass to a yoga class, plus a raffle to win an annual membership and 20% off all yoga gear. 459 Broadway, (212) 965-0801

Making up, breaking up.....Beauty Wonkette says SCR** the tabloids!

2009-06-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

For the most part, Beauty Wonkette enjoys food shopping....EXCEPT when she makes the mistake of thumbing thru the tabloids at checkout. Beauty Wonkette cannot believe that the tabloids (as well as some blogs that will go unnamed .... GRRRR) are still
bitching about female celebrities venturing
outdoors without makeup. They're so sensational
about it, that catching Pamela Anderson without
her face paint seems to rival the fright of a Sasquatch
sighting. And it's also one of the lamest, laziest ways
to hack at female self-esteem; implying that a
woman without makeup is committing some sort of
societal crime. The endless "Stars without Makeup"
tabloid rants are a constant reminder of the
not-so-subtle sexism in Hollywood: that female star
power is only skin deep. But for heaven's sake--if
Penélope Cruz can't go to the beach without her
"face on," then there’s no hope for the rest of us. Beauty Wonkette's guess is that the editors of those rags look like crap with or without makeup.

(Beauty Wonkette climbs down off her soapbox....)

Strange/Beautiful indeed.....

2009-06-08T19:48:00.000-07:00

Beauty Wonkette is slightly obsessed with nail polish these days. Pedicures are a year round indulgence for BW, but once the warm weather comes around, that indulgence seems to become an obsession - but it's a fun one. And while Beauty Wonkette can always fall back on a few of her all time classic favs, it's always fun to find new and unusual colors. Enter Strange/Beautiful....

STRANGEBEAUTIFUL™ was inspired by the vibrant red typewriter designed by ETTORE SOTTSASS and his work with the MEMPHIS group of designers, who rejected the rules of "good taste" and functionalism, and regarded design as fashion, with outrageous style appearing for a season and quickly disappearing. Willful and provocative, STRANGEBEAUTIFUL™ library of color changes each season so you have to grab it while you can.

The first collection for included a rainbow of vibrantly beautiful colors including A Midcentury Modern Orange and An Art Nouveau Blue teal - inspired by the depths of a lake at night. The collection, according to Jane Schub, the illustrator and now beauty entrepreneur who created the line, “is like a Josef Albers painting. Another plus is that the collection is free of traditional chemicals that some of us aren't too happy with, like Formaldehyde, Toluene, and DBP (dibutyl phthalate).

Volume 2, the limited edition collection launched for Spring 2009, which is the one Beauty Wonkette has pictured for you, takes inspiration from a variety of objects: the dull red color of a lobster shell; the dark dense saturated black purple inspired by the venerable J. Herbin ink company founded in 1670; the slate blue color of a uniform in an 1846 Currier print; an interesting color palette of camouflage called Tan and Water; Oscar Wilde; the exuberant colors of the Federalist period. These inspirations are what came to Jane Schub's mind when creating StrangeBeautiful’s richly perverse color saturated Volume 2.

Beauty Wonkette is loving these colors. What Beauty Wonkette is NOT loving as much is that you have to purchase the entire volume for $79. Originally sold exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman, it is now available online at Lucky Scent and several other online suppliers.e

Cool Beans

2009-06-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

Magic Under Eye Lightener Soup !!!

Don’t you just love it when someone says “You look so tired”? Really makes you feel good about yourself. Especially when it’s your mother. Or, better yet, your facialist. (Like you pay her for that crap?)

So you can imagine the giddy thrill Beauty Wonkette got when, on a recent trip to the ever-swank Susan Ciminelli Day Spa, Susan revealed her trick. No, it wasn’t a miracle cream. No kooky facial exercises. A pill? Nope.

Adzuki bean soup.

Sound like this belongs on the shelf next to the wonder zit salve or the make-you-skinny B-12? Beauty Wonkette was skeptical too. Till one recent Sunday afternoon when Beauty Wonkette donned her toque (and little else) and made Ciminelli’s legendary stew. (Part chili, part soup — all delish!)

Three hours later, Beauty Wonkette forgot all about the dark circles.

Beauty Wonkette wonders if fava bean pate could do something for crow’s-feet?

Adzuki Bean Soup Recipe:

This special Japanese bean helps to diminish the appearance of dark circles around the eyes by cleansing the body from within. Adzuki beans are wonderful for the kidneys and when the kidneys are dirty the result is dark skin under the eyes.

Adzuki beans are growing in popularity. They can be found at health food stores and a growing number of gourmet food markets.

Serves 4:
- Soak 3 cups of beans in a large pot of cold water for 24 hours or overnight. Drain.
- Add 2 quarts of cold water with the beans to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Drain the beans, then add 2 quarts of fresh cold water again.
- Simmer for 30 minutes, then add 2 Tbsp. of cumin and 1 tsp. white pepper.

- In a frying pan, sauté the following ingredients in 1 Tbsp. of olive oil until tender:
- 2 diced carrots
- 2 Tbsp. of finely chopped fresh ginger
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large, finely chopped sweet onion

- Add the ingredients to the soup, then cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until beans are cooked through.
- During the last 15 minutes only, add sea salt to taste. (Adding the salt any earlier will harden the beans.)
- Just before serving, add juice of 1 fresh lime and 3 Tbsp. of fresh cilantro.

Bon appetit!

Eat this soup at least once a week for best results. This is also a great diuretic and women need this at least once a month.

Suck on this, sweetie.....

2009-06-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

Over the years, Beauty Wonkette has come to the firm conclusion that sucking then swallowing is usually a true recipe for success.

Except, alas, when it comes to your breath.

For that, Beauty Wonkette recommends that you reverse the order with EatWhatever, a new product that truly fights halitosis in a one-two punch.

The packs come with two components: jellies and mints. After a garlicky or otherwise malodorous meal, swallow two or three jellies containing organic peppermint and parsley seed oils to fight bad breath from the inside out. Then suck on one of the mints to expedite the freshening process.

For guidance on how many jellies to pop, refer to the website’s handy menu, which indicates dosage according to the type of meal you’ve ingested.

Your mouth will be so sweet, you’ll have no trouble attracting suitors.

At that point, Beauty Wonkette thinks you’ll want to reverse the order again. (Just sayin' ;-) )