Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: TotalBeauty.com

More beautiful reads from the Total Beauty world!

Are you ready for a Warm Chill? Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy™ is raving about the latest limited edition collection from MAC Cosmetics. Here she gives us a fabulous makeup tutorial featuring the http://www.makeupmakesmehappy.com/home/2008/6/24/fotd-mac-cool-heat.html"target="_blank"> cool blue hues from MAC's Cool Heat.

Who is the THEVI Woman? Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog introduces you to the new line of cosmetics for the http://www.girl-woman-beauty-brains-blog.com/2008/06/beauty-product-review-thevi-cosmetics.html."target="_blank">NEW ethnic woman.

Does the http://www.makeupbag.net/2008/06/23/t3-plump-heat-seeking-liquid-hair-plumper/"target="_blank">T3 Plump Heat-Seeking Liquid Hair Plumper give Makeup Bag hair like Serena Van der Woodsen?

Alison of the Advice Sisters Guide To Life, Success & Happiness Blog visits with Redken's color consultant, David Stanko at the Angelo David Salon in New York, and answers the question: Are http://www.advicesisters.net/2008/06/are-salon-treaments-worth-it-my-visit_20">In-Salon Treatments Really Worth it?

Viva Woman http://www.vivawoman.net/2008/06/26/compact-mineral-or-loose-powder/"> compares compact, mineral and loose powder foundation and finds out which is better based on coverage, skin type, formulation, convenience and affordability.

The Muse saws open her Urban Decay Potion Primer and finds out http://www.musingsofamuse.com/2008/06/making-most-of-urban-decay-primer.html "> how to make the most of it!

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee finally checks out http://dailydosecoffee.blogspot.com/2008/06/macs-tendertones.html">MAC's Tendertones and thinks that it's a product worth keeping in your makeup bag.

Beauty's Spot is tangled up in shades of orange this summer as http://beautysspot.blogspot.com/2008/06/nars-lip-lacquer-in-capucine-it-was.html">Nars Lip Lacquer in Capucine has stolen her heart.

Beauty Anonymous reviews Corioliss http://beautyanonymous.blogspot.com/2008/06/product-review-corioliss-pro-ceramic.html"> Pro Black Flat Iron!

Tink at Casual Lavish provides a step by step http://www.casuallavish.com/2008/06/hair-tutorial-for-beach-waves.html">Beach Waves hair tutorial. Get your summer groove on with some fun waves and have fun!!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings has discovered a http://beautygirlmusings.blogspot.com/2008/06/fragrance-review-john-varvatos-for.html">new, more grown-up scent that she adores!

http://talkingmakeup.com/haircare/top-10-celebrity-hair-stylist-tips/">Top 10 Celebrity Hair Stylists Hair Tips by Talking Makeup.

The girls over at Beauty in Real Life got a chance to interview celebrity makeup artist Fatima Olive, http://http://beautyinreallife.blogspot.com/search/label/fatima%20olive">click here to read her fabulous makeup tips.

Come join The Life of a Ladybug's http://lifeofaladybug.typepad.com/the_life_of_a_ladybug/2008/06/no-no-giveaway.html"> no!no! giveaway! All you have to do is enter your name and e-mail address and you have a chance to win a brand new no!no! hair removal device!

Jeanne at Periodic Style is dealing with a http://periodicstyle.blogspot.com/2008/06/misadventures-in-self-tanning.html">self-tanning mishap...

Summer heat doing a number on your skin? Beauty411 shares how the new http://beauty411.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/06/june-jacobs-cooling-masque-beat-the-heat.html">June Jacobs Cooling and Soothing Masque can help you beat the heat and improve your skin!

Makeup Junkie shares a new Makeup Obsession and it's not lip gloss!

Beauty Tyrant is virtually poreless now, thanks to her http://beauty-tyrant.blogspot.com/2008/06/my-pore-fect-idealist-monday.html"> Pore-fect Idealist. Find out how this product makes it to her Holy Grail

Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: The Beauty Blog Network

This is a few days late but it's been a busy weekend! I'm off to Ottawa to celebrate Canada Day with the hubby and boy and then stopping in Quebec City for the 400th anniversary! I love road trips and hopefully this one will be a smooth ride. Here are some beautiful reads from around The Beauty Blog Network!


Melissa from The Makeup Divas reviews and shares photos of eye shadows and slimshines from the Mac Cool Heat Collection.


A Touch of Blusher looks at Dior's fall 2008 makeup collection.



Still confused about products that use the words NATURAL, ORGANIC and PURE on their packaging? Cybelesays discovers an organization that's setting a standard with their seal and some big indy brands are joining up.



Beauty Banter uncovers the most important sweatproof beauty products of the summer - a sweaty face is SO 2007!!!



Are you ready for a Warm Chill? Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy™ is also raving about the latest collection from MAC Cosmetics. Here she gives us another wonderful makeup tutorial featuring the cool blue hues from MAC's Cool Heat.



Beauty Anonymous reviews La Mer The SPF 18 Fluid Tint.



Get your summer beauty fix with The Daily Cookie's coverage of Nordstrom's Beauty Trend Show in 3 parts - Summer in the City, Get the Look, and All About the Tan!



15 Minute Beauty Fanatic finds her new favorite hot weather fragrance, Elizabeth Arden's Green Tea Lotus!



The Muse decides to saw her Urban Decay Primer Potion in half and make the most of it!.



Beyond Beauty Basics is having a Burt's Bees Radiance Kit Giveaway in honor of National Pollinator Week June 22-28. Comment and win an assortment of natural personal care products!


Makeup Moxie dishes on her favorite way to practice safe sun in this face sunscreen review.


Beauty Blogging Junkie tells you how to channel Gossip Girl's Serena van der Woodsen here.


The Fragrance Fanatic tells you some great ways to Wear Your Fragrance.


Beautiful Makeup Search picks out some products from the Shu Uemura 25th Boutique Birthday collection.



Come join The Life of a Ladybug's no!no! giveaway! All you have to do is enter your name and e-mail address and you have a chance to win a brand new no!no! hair removal device!


The fabulous ladies of Beauty in Real Life, have the details on the N.Y.C. Color Big Apple Bronze Summer Collection.



Have you tried Yes To Carrots Lip Balm? Face Candy tells you what she thinks of it.

Every day this week, Spoiled Pretty is giving away a chic summer bag, filled with beauty booty to help you beat the heat. This series of giveaways is all that and a bag of products! Enter today!



Summer heat doing a number on your skin? Beauty411 shares how the new June Jacobs Cooling and Soothing Masque can help you beat the heat and improve your skin!



Makeup Junkie shares a new Makeup Obsession!



Pursebuzz.com reviews her favorite tinted moisturizer. Clinique Moisture Tint :) See why I love it so much here.



Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog shows you how to create a light purple and blue eye with MAC Cosmetics.



The Beauty of Life is giving away over $100 worth of Lisa Hoffman products! Click here to enter!

Beauty Review: L'Oreal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Air Brush Self-Tanning Mist

Don't hate me because I tan easily. Ten minutes in the sun and I'm toasty and golden all over - well, almost all over. My legs rarely see the light of day! Skirts and shorts are not usually apart of my wardrobe for good reason - just trust me on this. It's just not natural to see pale legs when the rest of my body is tan. On occasion I'll break out into a skirt or shorts so those are the times when I need a little help in the tanning department. I'm not into fake 'n bake, have never tried a professional mist tan, and I'm easily scared off by self-tanners that leave a streaky mess. My inexpensive solution is usually drugstore brand bronze enhancing moisturizers.

When I received L'Oreal's innovative Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Air Brush Self-Tanning Mist in Medium (one shade fits all) I was intrigued. A professionally inspired airbrush mist delivery system that dries within minutes and gives you an even, 100 % natural-looking, streak-free tan, no rubbing required. With 360 degree application to help reach even the hardest spots, this little bottle delivers a professional tan right in the comfort of your own home. Plus, it helps disguise veins, scars and stretch marks! Sound too good to be true? Then it usually is.

I showered and exfoliated just like the instructions indicated. I applied the mist at arm's length and made sure not to rub in. I made the mistake of misting myself on my bedroom carpet. I realized the carpet was starting to feel damp underneath my feet so I frantically threw a towel onto the floor. Besides that, everything seemed to be going good. After a few minutes of drying, I noticed my skin taking on a natural glowy tan. I was so excited I ran downstairs to show my husband. He thought I didn't need it because I was tan already and said I would regret it the next day. What did he know?? I couldn't believe how easy it was to get my legs matching the rest of my body with just a few easy sprays.

The next morning I was mortified! That natural glowy tan I thought I had turned 5 shades darker and was a streaky, uneven mess! Not only that - my feet were a muddy orange disaster and were 10 shades darker than the rest of my body! I guess every mist sprayed ended up falling onto my feet. The soles of my feet were also the same colour which was disturbing especially since the colour did not reach the back of my ankle. I jumped into the shower and scrubbed my skin to death with every body scrub I owned until I was raw and red (apparently rubbing lemon juice gets rid of it but I had no clue at the time).

The over-scrubbing helped a bit but not nearly enough. Thank goodness I was able to use the PedEgg (love!) on the soles of my feet to bring it back to its normal pale state. As for the rest of my body, I had to unwillingly accept that the quickest fix would be to give my body another spray to hopefully even it out. It helped somewhat but there were still spots on my legs that were uneven. It was hard to spray it only on the lighter parts without getting the darker parts darker. To maintain the tan, you're supposed to spray 1 to 2 times per week but I was too traumatized. My sister-in-law, who is naturally fair and doesn't tan as easily, wanted to try it despite what had happened to me. I figured, maybe it was just me and the way I applied it. She was as excited as I was when I first started seeing results. But I warned her that she would be much darker the next morning.

When she came down for breakfast in jeans and a sweatshirt I burst out laughing. I couldn't blame her for taking a beauty risk because that's what real beauty junkies do! We came to the conclusion that it is definitely a two-person job. However, I think I'll be going back to my bronze enhancing moisturizers. No streaks, no mess, and you get naturally bronzey skin! Anything that promises to give you professional results plus more in a can is probably too good to be true.

*Note: The formula contains alpha hydroxy acids, which can make skin more sun-sensitive; wear a sunscreen.

Have you tried this product? What was your experience with it?

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Air Brush Self-Tanning Mist is sold are available at chain, drug, food and mass market retailers nationwide.

For more information, visit www.lorealparis.com.

To read my TotalBeauty.com review click here.

Adventures of a Makeup Junkie: When Packing Your Entire Stash is not an Option (Part Three)

This is the final installment of the three part beauty trilogy about my quest to bring only one medium sized makeup bag full of product with me on a five week trip away from home (and away from my makeup stash!) The quest was not an easy one, but I managed to slay my indecisiveness and select my makeup must-haves for the next five weeks. You already know my picks for eyes and lips, here are my necessities for the face.

1 Blush and 1 Bronzer Mascaraholic picks: Cargo Bronzer in Medium ($26 CAD) and Cargo Blush in The Big Easy ($26 CAD) The idea of using the same colour blush everyday will be a hard one to get accustomed to, but I only have so much space! The Big Easy is a flattering peachy pink that gives you the right amount of glow and Cargo's famed Bronzer in Medium provides a sun-kissed look without being muddy or orange like most bronzers. Hate shimmer? Cargo offers a matte version that looks just as great!

Foundation, Concealers & Face Powders Mascaraholic picks: Everyday Minerals Foundation ($12 US), Everyday Minerals Mint Concealer ($8 US) & MUFE High Definition Microfinish Powder ($32 CAD) Everyday Minerals Intensive Foundation in Light Neutral is my perfect summer foundation. Liquid foundations either melt off or clog my pores in the summer and Bare Escentuals Mineral Makeup was way too shiny and made me itchy. Everyday Minerals provides me with great coverage, lasts pretty well on my oily summer skin and best of all, doesn't break me out! Plus, mineral makeup has built-in sun protection because the titanium dioxide defends skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Still, that's no excuse to skip your daily sunscreen, especially if you're going to be out in the sun all day! The Mint concealer, worn under the foundation, masks the redness on my nose and cheeks without making me look like a martian. MUFE's Microfinish Powder keeps shine at bay and provides a lovely, soft focus finish!

Primers & Etc. Mascaraholic picks: Urban Decay Primer Potion ($18 CAD), Tarte Clean Slate ($38 CAD) and Korres Watermelon Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 30 ($40 CAD) Does the eyeshadow you apply every morning fall victim to oily lids and crease like no tomorrow within an hour? Then you and I have something in common, my friend. Urban Decay Primer Potion saved my eyes from looking like an oily, gross mess! It keeps my eyeshadow from creasing, makes the colours more vibrant and helps eyeshadow last all day! Tarte Clean Slate does the same thing for my face (almost). The clear primer smooths out my skin and makes my pores less noticeable, plus it helps with mattifying and making my mineral makeup last longer. And the most important product of all, sunscreen. I wear it religiously and refuse to leave the house without it. I tried a sample of Korres' sunscreen in Sephora's Sun Safety kit last year and loved it so much that I bought a full size tube. It doesn't make me too shiny and it doesn't break me out. Smells great too! (If you don't want to spend $40 on the sunscreen, I just noticed that the Summer Essentials Kit has a full size sunscreen plus a cooling gel and body scrub for $28.21 CAD! Seems like a way better deal, huh?)

Now that I've shared my picks for eyes, lips and face, what do you think? Am I overdoing it? Am I underdoing it?

Beauty Icon of the Month: Ms. Good Girl Gone Bad Rihanna

I’m totally loving Ri-Ri right now, her music, style and ability to pull off the most vibrant looks makes her the Beauty Icon of the month.

From her smoldering eyes and flawless skin to her neon nails and intense lips, Ms. Rihanna is no stranger to the world of beauty. Not only is she constantly playing with makeup, she’s always sporting the latest trends in funky clothing and chic styled locks. One day short hair another day shorter hair. Sometimes she’s a glamorous diva, other times she’s a punk rock chickie.

Her sexy vocals and catchy tunes keep her listeners jamming to her oh-so fun music. The pop sensation made her first debut on the music scene in 2005 and has since risen to the top, working with talented artists like Jay-Z, Sean Paul, Ne-Yo, Timbaland and Maroon 5, just to name a few. I have vague memories of dancing with the girls to Break it Off by Ri-Ri and Sean Paul, it’s definitely one of my faves!

Oh yes, and we can’t forget she’s also a pretty Cover Girl gal and an H&M diva helping to promote the Fashion Against AIDS collection.

She manages to carry her multitude of looks flawlessly, making her a definite fashion forward feline. I mean, who else can pull off tight leather leggings like Rihanna?

Images from: People.com, ETonline.com

Adventures of a Makeup Junkie: When Packing Your Entire Stash isn't an Option (Part Two)

In my last post, I detailed how hard it can be for a makeup junkie to pack for a long trip away from her stash. My goal was to pick what I consider to be absolute necessities for a five week trip and have them all fit in a medium sized makeup bag. I already shared my picks for eye makeup, now on to the lips!

3 Lipglosses: Sheer, Nude and Tangerine
Mascaraholic picks: MAC Pink Grapefruit (Limited Edition!, $16.50 CAD), MAC Tendertone in Tread Gently (Limited Edition!, $17.50 CAD) and Nars Lip Lacquer in Chelsea Girls ($28 CAD)
Orange lips are one of the hottest trends for this summer. Full on orange may not be for everyone, but have no fear! MAC's gorgeous Pink Grapefruit Lipglass from the Neo Sci-Fi collection is a shimmery sheer tangerine that is perfect day or night. It may be hard to track down but it's definitely worth the hunt (note to Canadian readers: Pink Grapefruit is still available at maccosmetics.com). MAC's Tendertones are love. They're glossy, make your lips feel soft and luscious and have an SPF of 12! Tread Gently is a bright, shimmery light lime in the pot but on lips it's sheer with golden shimmers. It looks great alone or on top of another colour. I keep it on me with a retractable lip brush so I can reapply throughout the day. Chelsea Girls is a nude beige gloss that can be layered for intensity. It's one of those products that I frequently fall in love with all over again every time I use it. Pat on a light layer to wear during the day or layer on for a pretty nude lip!

4 Lipsticks: Pinks, Rose and Nude
Mascaraholic picks: MAC Slimshine in Gentle Simmer ($17.50 CAD), MAC Lipstick in Jubilee ($16.50 CAD), MAC Lipstick in Party Mate ($16.50 CAD) and Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dolce Vita ($30 CAD).
Gentle Simmer is a perfect everyday sheer pink and I love Jubilee as a nude that's not too beige and not too pink. It looks great with a smokey eye. Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencils are my latest obsession, I love a matte lip but I hate how drying most matte formulas can be. Not the Nars Velvet Mattes! Dolce Vita is a lovely dusty rose that seems to flatter everyone who tries it! Finally, Party Mate, from MAC's Naughty Nauticals collection is a fun, bright shimmery pink that I'll be saving for nights out.

1 Lipliner: Clear
Mascaraholic picks: DuWop Reverse Lipliner ($21 CAD)
I'm not a big fan of coloured lipliner, but I love clear lipliner, especially when wearing gloss. I find that it helps the gloss stay on much longer and of course, keeps it from migrating outside the lip line, all without having to worry if the colour matches or not.

What are your vacation necessities? Which products would you bring along? What would you leave at home?

Visual Fix: Cool Heat

When I first saw this image in Elle, the eyeshadows from MAC's recently released Cool Heat collection came to mind. I love how the dark colours accented with blues, greens and aqua contrast with the warm and sandy beach. The summer months are typically about bright colours or variations of bronze which makes this photo an interesting change from what we're used to seeing. You can view the rest of the photoshoot at elle.com.

Adventures of a Makeup Junkie: When Packing Your Entire Stash isn't an Option (Part One)

There comes a point in every makeup junkie's life where they have to spend some time away from their beauty arsenal. Packing for a vacation or an extended trip away from home is never an easy task. Most women have a hard time deciding what clothes to bring. Me? I can't decide which products to bring! Next week, I'll be hopping on a plane and flying away to study in another glorious part of Canada for five whole weeks. Picking out a handful of products for a one or two week trip, while difficult, is manageable. But how am I supposed to know what I'll be in the mood for three weeks from now? Four weeks from now? Looking through my stash, I'm met with a plethora of options, with each lipstick, shadow and blush screaming "Take me! Take me with you!" and while I hate for any of my makeup products to feel unloved and ignored, taking them all with me simply isn't possible (unless my airline changes their policy to allow three checked suitcases).

My challenge? Fitting everything I need into one, medium sized makeup bag. There are numerous things I need to take into account - I'll need to have appropriate colours for both day and night-time looks, items must be summer-friendly and be able to stand up to hot, humid weather (products with SPF are plus) and lastly, I want to incorporate some fun, summer trends into my everyday look. I went deep into my beauty closet and after an hour of deliberation, I emerged with my final choices for my trip. I only picked what I considered to be absolute necessities (and every makeup junkie has quite a few!)

This adventure in beauty will be a trilogy. Up first are my picks for eye makeup. Coming soon to this very blog will be the lip products followed by cheek and face products that made the cut.

2 Eyeshadow Palettes: Colours and Neutrals
Mascaraholic picks: Urban Decay Deluxe Shadow Box ($43 CAD) and MAC Eyeshadows in Ricepaper, Goldmine, Woodwinked and Mulch ($16.50 CAD each)
The Urban Decay palette is chock full of beautiful, pigmented colours. If you bring an eyeliner brush, the brighter shades double as eyeliner which is perfect for giving a neutral eye a pop of colour. The MAC shadows (which I keep in a quad) work together to make a beautiful gold or bronze neutral eye. Increase the intensity of Mulch in the crease and outer corner of the eyes for a smokey eye that you can wear in the evening. Ricepaper and Scratch (from the Urban Decay Palette) look great on the inner corners of the eye, especially on mornings after a late night of studying (or partying).

3 Eyeliners: Black and Peachy-Nude
Mascaraholic picks: Stila Smudge Pot in Black ($25 CAD), MUFE Aqua Eyes in Mat Black 0L ($18.50 CAD) and Tarte Rest Assured Brightening Wand ($25 CAD)
I love colourful eyeliner as much as the next beauty junkie, but on this trip, my Urban Decay palette has me covered. I use the Smudge Pot, which is a gel liner similar to MAC's Fluidliners to line my eyes and MUFE's Aqua Eyes is the only liner I have encountered that stays put on my lower and upper waterline. Tarte's Brightening Wand is my secret to looking wide awake at early morning lectures. On one end is a peachy nude eyeliner that looks much more natural than white eyeliner for lining your lower waterline. The other end holds a creamy pink highlighter for dabbing on the inner corner of your eyes. I prefer to use it on my cheeks for a well-rested glow.

1 Mascara: Black
Mascaraholic picks: Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes! ($26 CAD)
I cannot rave enough about this mascara. It provides me with lush, thick, glossy lashes and it never clumps or flakes. Last year, Tarte had a waterproof version of this and I really wish I bought more than one tube because it was fantastic and perfect for the summer. However, the original is still fabulous. I tend to alternate between two to three mascaras at any given time (after all, I am a mascaraholic) and Light, Camera, Lashes is the sole mascara that I always have in rotation. That's how much I love it.

What are your vacation necessities? Would you bring more eye products? Less?

Celebrity Beauty Style: Sun-Kissed Beauty Hayden Panettiere!

Hayden Panettiere, actress and singer, has graced the cover of many magazines this year. Not only does she star in the popular series Heroes she is also the current face of fashion brand Candie's. She always looks gorgeous no matter what she’s up to and she’s definitely following the summer trend of natural, glowing makeup. Here’s how you can achieve a look like hers:


1. Face: Skip the foundation and go for something a little lighter like a tinted moisturizer. There are tons on the market but my fave right now is Dior’s HydrAction Deep Hydration Skin Tint. Not only does it even out skin tone and correct imperfections, it contains SPF 20 to help protect against the sun. Only problem, it comes in 4 shades which may make it difficult to find your perfect match. In that case, try Stila’s Sheer Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 Oil Free, which is slightly sheerer but has a higher SPF, perfect for those of you who are sensitive to the sun.

2. Cheeks: For a pretty glow try NARS blush in Torrid, it’s very similar to the ever popular Orgasm but is a little more on the coral side and the gold flecks really stand out. Apply to the apples of your cheeks for that fresh, sun-kissed look.

3. Eyes: Using the new Lancome Brazilian Earth Colors palette, designed by top model Daria Werbowy (who is from Mississauga!), you can achieve a natural but defined eye. Apply the taupe shadow to the full lid and contour with the darkest brown in the crease, don’t go too high on the brow bone as this look is meant to be as natural as possible. Highlight the eyes with the shimmery yellow on the inner corners and on the bottom lash line for extra sparkle. Line the eyes with a dark liner, Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes Liner in Star Black or Pearly Brown are great options because they are water and sweat resistant. Last step is to apply a few coats of your fave mascara, Dior Diorshow Mascara always does the trick.

4. Lips: Finish off the look with a glossy gloss, try a champagne nude colour like Sephora Ultra-Shine Lip Gloss in Silver Toupe 17.

by Shiv

Makeup Obsession: Hourglass Veil Fluid Makeup Oil Free SPF 15

It never fails, you read every beauty article on the next best foundation only to run to the nearest store to purchase it, use it, and be disappointed by it. Foundation is the number one key makeup product that determines just how fantastic the rest of your makeup will look. Picking a great foundation is like picking out the finest wine. You can’t rush into it and you can’t just go for the cheapest thing. After all, we spend so much money on our clothes, our hair, our shoes, yet when looking for foundations we gasp at anything over 20 dollars.

I have recently become obsessed with a foundation by Hourglass called Veil Fluid Foundation. Never before has a foundation done what it’s actually been set out to do-make your skin look absolutely flawless! Now before I tell you the price of the foundation you need to know how amazing it is. I know many of you reading this are notorious for doing what we’re told never do-you pick your face. I too am guilty of this and therefore need a good foundation to make me look picture perfect (post picking). This foundation covers so well and does not look thick and mask like at all! It comes in 7 shades with good colour tones however does not go dark enough for a much deeper skin tone. Tyra Banks could wear it but Naomi Campbell may not find her shade. Nonetheless, for those who do find their shade they will be completely hooked!! It lasts all day and gives a natural slightly dewy look to the skin. Its best applied with a brush however don’t get sold on buying the specified brush, it’s not the greatest. This foundation is best applied with the MAC #187 Brush or MAC #190 brush. And now, to drop the bomb- its $60. This may seem like a lot of money but just think about the new shoes you just bought that probably only go with one outfit, which you can only wear once because everyone will remember that outfit! In other words, you will use it more than those shoes which probably cost ten times the price!! Here are the quick facts about the foundation:

• Formulated with Matrixyl to stimulate the production of collagen and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
• Skin Tightener ST improves skin's texture and promotes younger looking skin.
• Advanced silicone creates a flawless finish.
• Oil, fragrance and paraben free, SPF 15.

Its sold at Sephora and before purchasing it I strongly recommend you get a few samples. You definitely want to make sure that you’re getting the right shade. Wear it for a few days and wait for the compliments to roll in. It will just confirm that $60 is a small price to pay for flawless skin.

Beauty Review: Week 2: no! no! Still A No-No?

It's week 2 and I still have hair on my legs. Yes, I know it's not going to be that easy, but I was just hoping. If you read Week 1, then you know I wasn't totally sold on the product. Well, this week my experience wasn't that much better. I'm still not sure if I'm really sold on it. The smell of burning flesh and hair is still there and my hair is still growing back the same day. It doesn't take 4 hours to complete both legs but 2 hours out of my day is frankly time I just don't have. If the results would last more than a few hours then maybe it would be worth it, but you might as well get your legs waxed. Yes, it's painful but if you get it done professionally it's done in minutes and you're hair-free for at least 4 days (in my case that is). If you're in a rush and need smooth legs in a jiffy, this is definitely not the product to use. A simple razor and some shaving cream will do the same job in less time. I get the same results using a razor as I do using the no! no!.

Why keep torturing myself you ask? I'm holding onto the promise that I will no longer have to wax or shave for the rest of my life! In order for me to rule out the no! no! as a waste of time and money, I have to give it a fair run. I'll give it 4 weeks and after that we'll see! Stay tuned for Week 3! Have you tried the no! no!? Hate it? Love it?

Meet The Writers!

I'm excited to announce three new writers to the Makeup Junkie team! All three are as equally obsessed with makeup as I am so it was the perfect fit. I owe it to the readers to have fresh new content everyday. We hope you enjoy the new additions and keep coming back for more!

Ell began her makeup career at a young age, being surrounded by it through years of dancing competitively. She immersed herself in makeup becoming fascinated by its endless possibilities. After learning as much as she could on her own, Ell enrolled into the makeup program at Seneca College in Toronto to build on her skills and truly hone her art. Immediately following that she worked with numerous freelance artists and was a resident makeup artist for salons. Ell has worked in the makeup industry for over 6 years, providing her skill and talent to one of the biggest makeup companies in the world. Ell has worked on numerous fashion shows including Fashion Cares, Brown Shoes, and others throughout the city. Ell also provides her services for photo shoots and weddings working with fine talent and creative geniuses. Ell continues to work in the industry and draws her ideas and inspiration from everything around her. You can never stop learning and growing when it comes to makeup. The minute you think you have mastered everything is when you truly haven’t learned a thing at all.

Fun Facts:

I’m a makeup junkie because... makeup doesn’t judge you! It never gets too tight on you and it doesn’t matter how much you’ve indulged in that chocolate cheesecake, it will still fit!!!

Gloss Girl or Lipstick Lady?

I’m a gloss girl but not just one gloss, it must be at least two for optimal shine and patent leather lips!

One beauty product you absolutely can not live without?

I can't live without my foundation- what else is out there that will even out my skin and make me look flawless! I know you were all assuming I would say mascara or bronzer- but come on, really, can you really live without your foundation?!!? I know I can’t.

If you could be a muse who would it be for?

I would be both Billy B’s and Roberto Cavalli’s muse- Great clothes and a great face.

Chocolate or sex?

Definitely sex, however it must be immediately followed by chocolate- immediately.

What makes you smile?

Women who have their makeup on before entering their vehicle make me smile. Sunshine. Women who wear blush; they are the ones who truly understand the power of the cheeks. And of course sunshine…. Did I mention sunshine? And great shoes on sale.

Shiv enjoys socializing with her girlfriends, spending time with her family and trying out different cuisines with her wonderful boyfriend. She currently works full time for a TV network in marketing/advertising and part-time at Sephora. Shiv is also a freelance makeup artist for weddings and fashion shows.

Fun Facts:

I'm a makeup junkie because... I love all things to do with beauty. I started my makeup obsession when I was 10, spending hours at Shoppers trying on different products. My first makeup purchase was Revlon lipstick in Coffee Bean (don't ask how I remember that!). I love how makeup can take you from drab to fab in a matter of minutes.

Gloss girl or lipstick lady?

I'm definitely a gloss girl, I carry 6 in my purse, leave 2 on my desk at work and have a gazillion in my drawers at home.

One beauty product you absolutely can not live without?

I absolutely cannot live without my Carmex lip balm, it does wonders for dry, chapped lips.

If you could be a muse who would it be for?

Definitely Jay Manual. He's got a great personality and I love his style. He always does a fabulous job enhancing a woman's beauty and it's even better that he's from the GTA!

Chocolate or sex?

Hmm, this is a tough one but I think I would choose chocolate because I can get it whenever I want it, lol.

What makes you smile?

Lots of things make me smile, but as an artist the biggest satisfaction I get is seeing a bride completely happy with the way she looks. I love being part of her big day.

Mascaraholic is a 22-year-old university student living in the beautiful city of Toronto, Ontario with a love for books and all things beauty. While she is always busy with classes, essays and work, she refuses to subscribe to the belief that all work and no play make her a dull girl! A touch of highlighter on the cheeks, some peachy-pink liner on the lower waterline and a tiny bit of shimmer on the inner corners of my eyes and she looks rather radiant while working, thank you very much! Mascaraholic loves trying new products and experimenting with the newest beauty tips and trends. Most importantly, she loves giving recommendations and writing reviews!

Fun Facts:

I'm a makeup junkie because... makeup is my creative outlet. With different shades, textures and finishes, the combinations you can come up with are endless. I love playing up neutral, daytime looks with a tiny splash of colour just to keep things interesting. It's one of the things that makes being a girl fun and some days, all you need is the right shade of lipstick to make you feel like you can take on the world.

Gloss girl or lipstick lady?

Both! I wear lipstick more often during the fall and winter and I prefer gloss during the spring and summer seasons, but my new favourite thing to do is layer them together.

One beauty product you can't live without?

Mascara! It's the one product I never leave the house without. Two coats and I look bright-eyed and awake!

If you could be a muse who would it be for?

Maureen Kelly of Tarte Cosmetics. I'm a huge fan of her line and I would love to inspire some products that are both practical and pretty.
Chocolate or sex?

Chocolate. More specifically, Lindt 85% Cacao dark chocolate. It's indulgence #2 (after makeup!).

What makes you smile?

Autumn in Toronto. I love everything about the season! My favourite thing to do is walk through local parks toward the end of September and the first week of October. The scenery is stunning.

Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: The Beauty Blog Network

More beautiful reads from around The Beauty Blog Network! Happy weekend!

Raging Rouge kicks off the summer season with an introduction to the current sun protection debate: should you use physical or chemical sunscreen?

A Touch of Blusher loves YSL's fall 2008 makeup collection.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy™ is this week's lady in red! In this lovely makeup tutorial, she'll show you the best way to strut sexy red lips this summer!.

Beauty Anonymous thinks Anna Sui Fall 2008 Makeup Collection is adorable!

Bionic Beauty shares her 7 tips for summer hair.

The Makeup Divas reviews and shares pics of Mac Tendertones in Hot 'N' Saucy and Honey Bare.

StyleBell reports from the floor of the 62nd Annual Tony Awards Official Presenter Gift Lounge. See what hair products Whoopi, Brooke Shields, and Mary Louise Parker chose!

The Muse reviews Bourjois Paris Hi-Tech Rouge before it even hits US shores!

Girl Gloss polls a few fellow beauty addicts and finds out Beauty Bloggers' Favorite Lip Products

Cybelesays suggests a new to the states nail polish line for Britney Spears. She needs to clean up her nails, dontcha think?

Beth from Beauty Junkie in SF is giving away 5 sets of BEE-utiful products from Burt's Bees in celebration of National Pollinator Week. Check it out and win!

The girls from Beauty in Real Life have some fabulous summer makeup tips from Fatima Olive...check them out!

Summer skin got you down? Beauty411 reviews a new product from REN that will jumpstart your skin and leave it looking like you just had a facial!

Beauty Blogging Junkie takes you backstage to the Tony Awards Gift Suite. Find out which stars got which gifts here .

Karen of Makeup and Beauty Blog shows you how to create a summery blue eye with the new Cool Heat eyeshadows from MAC Cosmetics.

Beauty Banter discovers the amazing brow kit by Anastasia ... brow specialist to J. Lo, Penelope Cruz, and Sharon Stone!!!

There's a new feature this summer at makeup loves me - bright lights, big color helps you stay up to date on the current bold color trend.

Kitiya from Mischo Beauty discusses her perfect home pedicure achieved using Nailtiques in her “Mischo Beauty Pick: Nailtiques Oil Therapy post.

Face Candy goes over the latest Marc Jacobs Daisy accessories.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has a great new way to clear up your acne!

The Beauty Bug urges you to look at these fierce Shu Uemura lashes that a knock-out drag queen rocked at a local Shu Uemura party.

Joy from the Makeup Junkie dishes on her night out with Cover Girl!

Pursebuzz.com shows you a quick and easy way to wear barely there makeup, a look that is all over Hollywood.

Ready for a vibrating mascara brush? Makeup Moxie is buzzing over Lancome Oscillation.

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug proves brown girls can and should wear orange in her Electro FOTD!

MAC’s new Volcanic Ash Exfoliator cost $19, but Spoiled Pretty would gladly pay twice as much. Click here to find out why.

Michelle from All Lacquered Up reviews Chanel's Fall Collection Nail Colours, including the polish that everyone's been buzzing about, Gold Fiction.

Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: TotalBeauty.com

How's everyone's weekend been so far? My little guy has a mixture of a stomach flu and a cold but he's a trooper. The last two days I've been catching puke in a bowl or getting puked on and wiping off runny snot from his nose. Not such a glamorous job this whole motherhood thing, but puke and runny noses aside I still love it! If you're looking for an escape this weekend check out some beautiful reads from the lovely bloggers of TotalBeauty.com! Enjoy!

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee attempts to stop the ravages of time on her face with L'Oreal's Skin Genesis line. Find out how it works and what she thinks.

Viva Woman invites you to check out her updated tips on sunscreen protection and application this summer.

Advice Sister Alison at The Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success and Happiness Blog discovers a luxe, multi-tasking face treatment by Chanel :a luxe, multi-tasking face treatment by Chanel called HYDRAMAX + ACTIVE TEINTE Active Moisture Tinted Lotion SPF 15. It's truly a Skin Saving Wonder and it's Advice Sisters Product of the Week!

Tink at Casual Lavish explores the nail polish watercoloring technique.

The Muse reviews Bourjois Paris Hi-Tech Rouge before it even hits US shores!

If you never try anything else Beauty's Spot recommends (which would be incredibly foolish) you must try this Honey Heel Balm by Farmhouse Fresh. It will change your feet!

Beauty Anonymous thinks Anna Sui Fall 2008 Makeup Collection is adorable!

Summer skin got you down? Beauty411 reviews a new product from REN that will jumpstart your skin and leave it looking like you just had a facial!

Beauty in Real Life has great summer makeup tips from a celebrity makeup artist.

Jeanne at Periodic Style wants to get buff this summer...

Talking Makeup: How To Give Your Skin A Natural Glow by Celebrity Nutritionist Oz Garcia.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings shares a new product to help control those fly-aways!

The Jet Set Girls try out L'Oreal's latest self tanner.

Joy from the Makeup Junkie dishes on her night out with Cover Girl!

Discover which skincare line is loved by celebrity moms andA Mom in Red High Heels alike!

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug proves brown girls can and should wear orange in her Electro FOTD!

Beauty News: P&G Cover Girl Event!

The best part about being a blogger is getting to meet the people behind some of the biggest brands in the cosmetic industry. Last night, I attended the P&G Cover Girl "Gotta Have It" Summer Beauty Trends evening for bloggers. It is the first blogger's-only event I have attended. The quaint, intimate setting allowed us to get to know everyone; PR reps, P&G brand reps, and THE Paul Venoit, Cover Girl's Make-up Pro and TV personality for the popular show Look-A-Like! It was also great to connect with other Canadian beauty bloggers for the first time (Beauty Geek, My Beauty Match, She Does The City) and hang out with some familiar bloggers (Ali from Chick Advisor and Ellen from Lipstick, Powder, n' Paint).

It was wonderful to meet everyone but I was ecstatic to meet international makeup artist Paul Venoit! I get more excited meeting makeup artists than I do a Hollywood actor. He was just so down-to-earth and hilarious! Paul spoke about the summer trends and the new products Cover Girl will be launching for summer. There are lots of goodies so stay tuned as I dish on the summer trends and new products from Cover Girl! All I have to say is "Bring on the colour!"

The night was fantastic and I'm really happy I went. P&G has really gone out of their way to understand this whole new world of beauty blogging by listening to the needs of us bloggers. To end the night, they handed us our lovely swag bags which included a pair of Havanas flip flops - oh the perks!

Summer launches:

CG Boundless Nails Rose Coral

CG Eye Enhancers Tropical Fusion (I don't know why the colour of the palette turned red when I uploaded it but it's really blue)













CG LashBlast Mascara














CG Outlast Single













CG TruBlend Naturally Luminous Blush













CG TruBlend Naturally Luminous Bronzer













CG Wetslicks Fruit Spritzers














CG Wetslicks Amazemint (again the colour uploaded to a different colour)

Stay tuned for beauty reviews and Cover Girl summer trends!

Makeup Junkie Seeks Freelance Writers!

Are you a makeup junkie who has a passion for all things beauty and has the need to share it with the world? Do you have a unique, creative, and cheeky writing style, able to meet deadlines, and live in Toronto or the GTA? You must be able to contribute at least one article a week. If you're a makeup artist then it's even better, but it's not required. It's not a paid gig, but I can offer you great exposure, experience, and free products to test out. You'll also have the chance to attend some exclusive beauty events!

Makeup Junkie is also looking for a writer who is also a makeup artist (GTA) to primarily focus on makeup tutorials. You must have at least 2 years experience as a working artist and a portfolio (online or book). Access to a camera or photographer, models (tutorials can be done on yourself as well), and good lighting are a plus. This is a great way to showcase your work and gain exposure.

If this is right up your alley, email me at joy@makeupjunkie.ca with a sample of your work and why you think you'd be perfect for Makeup Junkie!

Beauty Review: Bronze Me Up With Lise Watier Havana Bronzing Collection

Looking at past photos from the icy cold months, I realized this ol' chick looks better with some colour! Now that there are many bronzing products on the market there's no excuse to look pasty white! Thanks to Lise Watier's Havana Bronzing Collection I can look sun-kissed and luminous all summer long. The collection includes Havana Dry Oil Body Glow, Havana Precious Bronzing Pearls, and Havana Sun Dust Bronzing Powder.


Havana Dry Oil Body Glow ($38 CAD): If you want gorgeous bronzed looking skin, this bottle of sparkling bronze oil will not only enhance but highlight that summer glow. This beautiful body oil is easy to apply and melts right into the skin with no greasy residue. It is formulated with a light sunscreen and enriched with emollients and Vitamin E, leaving your skin lusciously smooth. Great for all over the body especially on your legs! A summer must-have!


Havana Precious Bronzing Pearls ($38 CAD): These pretty little pearls in matte and pearl finishes are a combo of pink, white, and brown giving you the perfect tan! Buff it onto all over your face in a circular motion or apply only where the sun naturally hits you. I also love brushing it over the lids for a shimmery finish and for a little sparkle on the decollete. This works beautifully on all skin tones.


Havana Sun Dust Bronzing Powder ($30 CAD): This duo bronzing powder has become a staple in my makeup bag. On one side you have a matte bronzer (although it doesn't stay matte for two long and on the other side you have a shimmery bronze powder that can be used for colour on the cheeks or eyes or as an overall glowy finish to your face and body. I thought the sparkling powder would be too much for me but it looks really beautiful on the skin. Ever since I've started wearing it, I've been getting lots of compliments! I like to contour with the matte side and add the shimmery side to my cheeks and eyes. You can also mix the two together for an all-over even finish. It comes in a chic bronze compact with a decent size mirror for touch-ups. My kind of bronzer!

For more information visit www.lisewatier.com

Happy shopping!

Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: TotalBeauty.com

More beautiful reads from the Total Beauty world!

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee gets a makeover and checks out the new Stila summer collection eye shadow palette.

Fifty-Cent Head reviews the 2008 Readers' Choice Awards in two posts, because there are so many (and so much to say!): Part One and Part Two.

Viva Woman takes a close look at ingredients in mineral makeup that can cause irritation to your face.

Who couldn't use a little stress relief? Beauty411 raves about Johnson's Melt Away Stress line; check it out and enter the contest to win a free assortment of Melt Away Stress products!

Beauty Anonymous loves Chanel Levres Scintillantes Glossimer for lips!

Talking Makeup loves Smooth
Indulgence Concealer by Dermablend.

Alison (aka. "Advice Sister Alison") of The Advice Sisters de-mystifies beauty product labels.

Kitiya from Mischo Beauty invites you to enter her “Mischo Beauty Johnson & Johnson Melt Away Stress Giveway!”

The Beauty of Life welcomes in the dog days of summer with an assortment of cocktail-inspired beauty products!

Bare Escentuals' Warm Radiance has passed muster with Toya of "The Life of A Ladybug!" Come check this out and the rest of her "Bronzers for Brown Girls" series!

Hair Therapy continues for Monique at Beauty Girl Musings!

Jeanne from Periodic Style is back from her Vegas vacation and wonders what to do with her winnings...

Beauty in Real Life has the scoop on the soon-to-be-released, fab new colors for CoverGirl Eye Enhancers.

Joy from Makeup Junkie is wondering if no! no! is A No-No? Check out Week 1 of her review!

Henna from Canadian Beauty found a gloss that really lasts - find out which one she's using!

Laurie at Beauty's Spot sacrifices her perfect tan to bring you the skinny on L'Oreal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Airbrush Self Tanning Mist.

Looking for a new summer haircut? Check out this great style found on !

Beauty Fix Weekend Reads: The Beauty Blog Network

I am baking up a storm and I haven't done this since high school. My husband thanked my son for turning 2 today lol. When I think back on the first day he was born, I was in such a different place. Scared, excited, scared and definitely not a homemaker! I was an urban mom living downtown and here I am two years later living in a house in the suburbs cooking and baking! Ahhh! My son turning 1 was definitely special but there's just something about turning 2 that makes it even more special. He's this little person, talking, laughing, making jokes, dancing, and saying "no" a little more than I'd like to hear. We turned his crib into a "big boy" bed today; I was nearly close to tears! Sigh. lol Tomorrow we take the boy to the water festival down by the lake to meet Max and Ruby and Dora. After, is his basketball themed birthday bash! Then Sunday is Father's Day! Busy weekend! What is everyone else up to this weekend? Whatever you're doing, don't forget to check out some beautiful reads from The Beauty Blog Network!


The Daily Cookie shows you how to get stick-straight hair with the Corioliss Pro Flat Iron - complete with before and after photos!

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy™ tries out the new Physician's Formula Talc-Free Mineral Wear™ Loose Powder. Check out what her thoughts were!

StyleBell reviews the new line of hair care products by Kate Hudson and David Babaii, David Babaii for Wild Aid. Check out how it rates!

A Touch of Blusher adores this face wash!

The Makeup Divas reviews the new Bobbi Brown Pink Collection along with pictures and swatches.

Who couldn't use a little stress relief? Beauty411 raves about Johnson's Melt Away Stress line; check it out and enter the contest to win a free assortment of Melt Away Stress products!

Beauty Anonymous loves Chanel Levres Scintillantes Glossimer for lips!

Bionic Beauty packs up her makeup and skincare and moves half-way across the country. Check out her packing techniques and products.

The Beauty Blog Network welcomes newest member, "Makeup Loves Me to the network. Her blog is an absolute must see.

Elke shows how to contour cheekbones, for an updated version of the newest beauty trend for this summer and fall.

Beauty Blogging Junkie discusses her favorite Three Custom Color Cosmetics.

Kitiya from Mischo Beauty invites you to enter her “Mischo Beauty Johnson & Johnson Melt Away Stress Giveway!”

Beauty Banter gives you A-list Summer Hair Therapy... summer do's, must-have products, and celebrity cutter beauty secrets!

The Beauty of Life welcomes in the dog days of summer with an assortment of cocktail-inspired beauty products!

Bare Escentuals' Warm Radiance has passed muster with Toya of "The Life of A Ladybug!" Come check this out and the rest of her "Bronzers for Brown Girls" series!

makeup loves me is giving away 5 sets of sally hansen lip lab products!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic gets some great anti-aging tips from Dr. Patricia Wexler!

Beauty in Real Life has the scoop on the, soon-to-be-released, fab new colors for CoverGirl Eye Enhancers.

Glossypink is a believer in bronzer again thanks to this gem!

Canadian Beauty has figured out the way to get seriously radiant skin!

Joy from Makeup Junkie is wondering if no! no! is A No-No? Check out Week 1 of her review!

Headed to Hawaii this summer? Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gets a manicure and pedicure in paradise when she visits The Lippmann Collection Nail Studio on Oahu.

Beauty companies are slapping the word "natural" and "organic" on every product these days. How do you know what to use? Cybelesays investigates and comes up with a winning skin care line.

Calling all M.A.C. fans!!! Scandalous Beauty has your guide to exclusive M.A.C. Gift Sets, Discounts and the Top M.A.C. Eye Shadows ever!!!

Makeup Moxie has beauty lust for L’Occitane Rice Ultra-Matte Face Fluid.

Growing out your bangs/fringes? let Pursebuzz.com show you a cute superfast way to get it out of your face.

This week, Spoiled Pretty is hosting two fantastic giveaways...one for you, and one for dear old dad. Enter today!

Who doesn't need tips for a perfect long-lasting pedicure this summer? Beth from Beauty Junkie in SF has exactly what you need!

Beauty Review: Week 1: no! no! A No-No?

No pain, less hair and eventually no hair, no mess, no stubble the next day, no cuts or nicks, and in-home hair removal? Sounds like a dream right? The no! no!, a revolutionary concept in hair removal, promises to do all these things! It uses Thermicon technology to remove the hair which is broken down in 3 processes (to read about it click here). You can expect the same professional results as doing laser hair removal but in the comfort of your own home no appointments required. Sweet right?

Well, like professional laser hair removal, it is a step-by-step process that you must be committed to. I received this a couple of months ago and gave up pretty easily. Don't expect to see results right away. I decided to give it a try again now that hot summer weather is calling for frequent shaving (that never really gives me a close enough shave!). I let my hair grow to an obscene amount (my poor husband lol) and gave the no! no! another whirl.

The time it takes to remove the hair depends on the area of hair removal, the density and coarseness of the hair. I removed hair from my legs and I have a lot and it's very coarse. The no! no! is simple enough to use; just run it steadily along your legs with the arrow pointing up. If the green light is steady and consistent then you are doing it correctly. There is a blade for long hair and for short hair.

In the beginning, you don't feel any pain but because my hair is coarse I had to go over it in the same spot a few times. After a while, I started to feel a slight stinging, burning sensation. The stinging was manageable but it's supposed to be painless! A weird odor, like hair and flesh burning (yum!), also occurs. It says it'll only last in the beginning but I notice it every time. After each section is done, you have to buff it with a buffer that gets rid of the old hair and smooths out the area. Four hours later with a sore back and my day half gone, my legs were done! I was annoyed it took 2 hours to complete each leg and my legs still looked like I had stubble! They were somewhat smooth but within an hour parts of my legs started to grow stubble. There is supposed to be no irritation but a few hours later and into the next day my legs were unbelievably itchy! On the 3rd time, my short hair blade broke and only after 5 hrs of use altogether! I was taking it out of the no! no! and it popped open on its own (the box is supposed to come with 5 blades to start but I only received 2 short blades and 1 long one)! I tried to put it back together but the wire inside was completely bent.

To see true results you must no! no! your legs 2-3 times a week. As painful as the first 4 hours were, the 2nd and 3rd were still a little painful but I was able to do both legs in 2 hours (woohoo!). Gradually your hair will grow less and become less coarse, but this is still to be determined. I'm not totally sold on the no! no! yet, but I'm going to be a trooper and give it a fair run! Hairless legs forever is worth it right? Stay tuned for Week 2!

Tag! You're It! Thanks To The Beauty of Life!

If it weren't for the fabulous Jamie at The Beauty of Life, you probably wouldn't know as much about me as you already do! The topic this time is to answer six questions about myself. If you care, read on! :)

What were you doing 10 years ago?
Wow, either I've got a really bad memory or 10 years is a really long time ago. It was the summer before my first year of college and moving away from home! This time 10 years ago I was probably dressing like a hooch and hitting all the clubs.

What are 5 things on your to-do list today?
1. To make a to-do list
2. To update my blog!
3. Do more laundry
4. Test more products
5. Buy party stuff for my son's 2nd B-day this weekend!

Snacks You Enjoy?
Chips (Old Mill Sour Cream chips remind me of my childhood), popcorn, turkey sticks, cheese with Melba Toast, raw veggies with dip, ice cream, chocolate, and trail mix!

Places You've Lived?
Vancouver, BC and Toronto, ON

What Are 5 Things You Would Do If You Were A Billionaire?
1. I'm with Jamie - pay off all our debts!
2. Buy a whole new wardrobe filled with Christian Lacroix shoes and Manolo's, Citizen jeans, Chanel and Dior couture, Marc Jacob sunglasses and purses, and something dazzling and sparkly from Tiffany's!
3. Buy my mom and bro's the car and house of their dreams
4. Travel the world
5. Give to charity

People You Want To Know More About?
My son! You'd be surprised the things that come out of this almost-2-year-old's mouth! I always wonder what goes through his head when he discovers something new. I can't wait to know more about the person he will become!
Thanks Jamie for the tag! It was fun! Tag! You're It Tink from Casual Lavish, Agostina from Makeup2Beauty, Toya from The Life of A Lady Bug, and Ali from Chick Advisor!

Beauty Review: Father's Day Gift Ideas

Father's Day is just around the corner and thoughts of digital cameras, watches, plasma tv's, and golf clubs are milling about in your head. As a kid, I never used to panic about what to get my father because he was always happy with a cute drawing and lots of hugs. Now that I'm a wife of a husband that is a father, I'm thinking an amateur drawing of us and lots of hugs would be a nice thought but wouldn't cut it lol. If high-tech gadgets are a little out of your budget, cologne and men's skin care is always the next best gift! Here are some gift ideas that will keep him smelling good and his skin looking great!

Tommy Bahama Set Sail South Seas Cologne ($52.50): It's a light, refreshing scent perfect for summer. With a fusion of watery nuances, violets, rum, and citrus blends it's crisp and woodsy scent is fresh but masculine. The scent and the packaging remind me of a beautiful island escape. Every time I smell it on my husband I'm whisked away!


YSL L'Homme Limited Edition Design by Jean Nouvel ($79.50): For the modern man that appreciates style and architecture. The bottle, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, was inspired from the shape of a test tube or rather a symbol of a man's virility. A fresh, woody fragrance that is both sparkling and sensual!

HydraMen Shave Gel and After-Shave Balm: If your father is an eco-friendly/organic kind of guy, then load him up with HydraMen Shave Gel and After-Shave Balm! Every man has to shave so why not give him something that is nutritious for his skin and environmentally friendly? My husband appreciated the clear shave gel because you can see exactly where you're shaving which means no ugly razor nicks! He also didn't mind the sweet almond scent. The after-shave balm was soothing and didn't leave any residue on the skin. Sounds like a winner!


Lancome Men Energizer Total Gift Set ($65): Most guys tend to neglect their skin and figure that those dark circles and wrinkles will disappear on its own. The problem is men just don't know what to buy so why not make it easier and buy the gift of energized, revitalized and supple skin! This gift set includes 1 Energizer Total, 1 Ultimate Cleansing Gel, 1 Trial Size of of High Definition Shave Foam all packaged in a sleek black pouch.

Happy shopping! Wishing all the father's a Happy Father's Day!