Women's Health Magazine's Top 65 Beauty Products

The July/August issue of Women's Health Magazine has lots of articles about how to stay fit, boost your metabolism, and even how to get rid of too much stuff, recycle everything, and take control of your life. But the magazine is really good at providing a holistic look at a woman's life, and that includes my favorite subject--beauty!

The July/August 2008 issue of Women's Health Magazine provides a list of the 65 beauty items that "the pros" simply can't live without. Women's Health editors asked a panel of 48 professionals from hairstylists to dermatologists, makeup artists, and manicurists. They asked: "What is your favorite product?" in a variety of categories that were relevant to each area of expertise. The result was a group of 65 "must-haves" including the best items in Facial Skin Care, Body Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup and "Green Giants" (in a special, eco category). You can see the article starting on Page 149 of the magazine, or get the list online.

I have to admit, the grouping was impressive--and dermatologists, for example, know a great deal about what is good for skin, and what isn't. I didn't agree with all of the winners, but I did like most of them. One product that seems to have caused a bit of a buzz is RevaleSkin Night Cream $100.00 1 oz. Coffee Berry, a powerful antioxidant, is the hot beautifier in this one. Will you get brighter, smoother skin in just three weeks? I haven't tried it (although I will try to get a sample to review in the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column). Like any product, if it's the right type for you, and it's used as directed, and regularly, it will make a difference. Stay tuned for more!

I asked Women's Health's beauty editor what she can't live without. "Maybelline's Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara $7.47" was one of her faves. I'll be reviewing this in the September/October What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column (up the first week in September) along with dozens and dozens of other new and nifty products. The Assistant Beauty Editor loves Phyto Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm $26.00 3.3oz.

I have always wondered how it would be possible to pick just one winner in every category of beauty product. There are so many I personally love, from DiorShow Thickening Mascara $24.00 to Chanel's foundations (not a bad one in the bunch) to Boots inexpensive but yummy smelling (and effective) bath and body products. What's in my makeup bag right now?.....that's got to be the subject of another post, another time.

Visit Women's Health online at: http://www.womenshealthmag.com/

Correction on Holiday Preview Post

NOTE: In the Post "Ho Ho Ho --a Glimpse of Christmas/Holiday, Future" http://www.advicesisters.net/2008/07/ho-ho-ho-glimpse-of-christmasholidayThere is a typo in the original post. The line from Hat Attack's web site for the adorable tweed earmuffs is BUJI Baha, not "Biki" I am sorry for the error. ALISON

Creating Your Own, Signature Scent is Easy!

I have smelled literally hundreds of new fragrances in my work as a beauty expert, and by now, I'm pretty good at discerning specific "notes" in most fragrances. To me, scent is like wine--highly personal and there's something for everyone at every price point. But often when I sniff something I can't help but think: "if only it had a little more of...and a little less of..."


Thanks to the Do It Yourself Perfume Kit $24.95 by Bramble Berry I can now satisfy my urge to dabble in the art of mixing scent and be my own perfumer!


This little kit lets you create not just one unique scent, but up to a dozen different variations. Inside square, cardboard box are nestled three 1 /2 ounce of bottles of pure fragrance oil. There are quite a few different varieties of scent mixes from fruits and florals to spices. My kit featured the latest and greatest for Fall and Winter 2008: a sparkling and fruity oil called" "Moonlight Pomegranate" (a mix of sparkling citrus, dewberry and cassis, plus musk, sandalwood and vanilla); a light green floral called "Kentish Rain" (blending notes of basil, green leaf and ozone with muguet lily, rose and jasmine, with a touch of violet and bottom notes of sandalwood and tonka) and a slightly weightier blend called "red Lychee Tea" (a blend of sweet lychee with dew fruit, and white florals of geranium and lily). You also get two one ounce bottles of Perfume base, 4 droppers (to add the ingredients), 4 re-useable glass mini bottles with caps, and 12 rollerball tops, plus a Custom Perfume Guide Booklet with general instructions (it's not at all difficult to blend the essential oils, but the trick is to do it to your liking which might take a bit of trial and error--but fun trial and error. You get a few blank labels as well, but I'd rather be creative and make attractive labels of my own.

What's great about this little kit is that you can make each mini-batch of scent different or the same. Use one note, two notes, all three notes, or more or less of them together as you want. My first try was ok, but as I began to appreciate how the notes blended together, the results were even better. Once you have a scent you can't live without, be sure to save the formula so you can create your special "recipe" over and over again --or make a dozen different blends and use each to suit your moods, the seasons--whatever!

Real "noses" tend to run in families for generations, but you don't have to come from Eze, France to create a scent that will be nice to wear. And it doesn't take all day either. It's really fast and easy---just the kind of DIY project I love. You don't have to use a hammer, a paintbrush, or wear overalls....all you have to do is sniff the essential oils, fill some droppers and dispense as many drops as you wish into the mini-bottle, add a cap, and pop it in your purse. The small size fits in the tiniest handbag for freshening up, anytime.

This is a treat for a rainy weekend, or just to take your mind off of other matters for a short while. And it makes such a great gift --stock up now for the holidays .


www.brambleberry.com or call Toll Free: 877-627-7883

Toki--a new kind of beauty booster

Collagen is a protein that comprises about 25% of proteins in our bodies. Approximately 80% of your skin is made from collagen--and it gives your skin it's basic structure. This amazing thing could be called the real fountain of youth, since it not only helps to hold our bodies together, but it makes skin stronger, thicker and more supple, which also makes it look "young." Alas, nothing that good lasts forever. Our bodies don't do as good a job of retaining collagen as we age, and that leads to the one thing no one wants: wrinkles.



In the old days, those with maturing skin simply had to live with it, but not there are creams and other potions that help to stimulate the production of collagen in skins cells --mostly from the outside, but TOKI $175.00 30-day supply by Lane Labs. works from the inside, out! It is a natural collagen drink that works to reduce fine lines and age spots. In Japan, TOKI was used to support the joints, but soon after it was introduced, clients began to report an overall improvement in the texture and appearance of their skin, too. Naturally, this was good news! TOKI was introduced to the United States (in 2002), but there is still not a lot of information or reviews of this product, online. As with all skin care reviews, this one is subjective. My experience with the product may not be the same as yours, but perhaps you're wondering: Can a drink really help you have a more radiant, porcelain-like, youthful complexion?

TOKI contains three essential nutrients for the skin: Active Collagen, Calcium and Mucopolysaccharide, which is a group of polysaccharides that are a constituent of bone and other connective tissues. Mucopolysaccharides include hyaluronic acid which is normally produced by the body and gives the skin its volume, fullness and elasticity. When you drink TOKI, these essential nutrients are delivered to the dermis layer of the skin through the body’s own blood supply. The dermis is a layer of skin beneath the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) that consists of connective tissue, and cushions the body from stress and strain. According to Dr. Irwin Kantor, M.D., the supervising doctor involved in the clinical trials for TOKI a dermatological review found "statistically significant" improvements (in 45 days) in the soft tissue of the eyes, sagging, puffiness, wrinkling, and aging over the course of eight weeks. Patients saw improvements in their appearance and on average, blood collagen indicators increased by 114%.



But with most skincare, be it treatment from the outside or the inside, the true results can only be tested on an individual basis. So I opened the can and scooped out a "serving" of TOKI with the included, cute little scoop (there are packets, too). It's easy to use. All you have to do is mix one serving into an 8 o. hot or cold drink, three times a day for the first 30 days. Then drink one packet in an 8 oz. glass of something, twice a day. It's lemon flavored, and not unpleasant (unless you dislike lemon).



As a reviewer, it's nearly impossible for me to test one item long enough or in just one part of my skin, to say for sure whether or not it's the new fountain of youth, but I like the idea. Nutraceuticals like TOKI are a fairly new concept, and the products are costly, but they're gaining quickly in popularity, people realize that they are easier and less expensive ways to combat aging skin other surgery. The results will never be as dramatic, but to quote an Elle Magazine article review: "Those turned off by the idea of [collagen] injections might be interested to know that it is sold in other forms."



Interested, indeed! For anyone with the money and motivation to try it, the natural, skin-revitalizing nutrients in TOKI could possibly be a painless, easy way to combat aging skin.



To get TOKI visit: http://www.888ageless.com/

Posietint is Benefit's Youth-Enhancing Blush

Benetint is BeneFit's original, much-loved, rose-tinted lip & cheek stain that adds a deep pink, sheer flush to your face, thanks to a blend-able liquid formula. It was introduced way back in 1977, but now BeneFit has introduced Posietint $28.00 -- a poppy-pink tint that makes your complexion actually look younger, with a subtle hit of color. It's really a better way to blush. BeneFit, what took you so long?

Open the white cap of the pretty, metallic pink bottle and add three strokes of this new, sheer, pink, liqui-gel blush on the apples of your cheeks (or use it s a flattering lip stain) with the brush applicator. Now blend with your fingertips, and see yourself looking perky, healthy, pretty.

TIPS: If your skin tends to be dry, moisturize lightly , first.

You can also add another layer of color for more intensity.

This Posietint blush looks incredibly natural and blends with your own skin coloring, to give you that "I'm in love" glow you haven't been able to get from a bottle -- until now! I liked Benetint, but the new, Posietint pink blush is a much more flattering and up-to-date color. Even better, this multi-tasking pink stain/blush feels like you have on nothing at all -- that's a big plus whether you apply it on bare skin, or over a foundation or tinted moisturizer. Unlike creams, this gel formula stays true to color, and lasts for hours.

Had a bad night? Feeling a bit under the weather? Look sallow in your office's horrible lighting? Need a youthful fix? Posietint has come to the rescue! This product is really pretty--and it's really pretty amazing-- and you'll definitely want it!

Visit www.benefitcosmetics.com or Sephora.com

Ho Ho Ho --a Glimpse of Christmas/Holiday, Future

The All Star Parade really has nothing to do with this post, other than I was trying to cross the street to attend a holiday preview, and it took me 10 minutes to do so! A car with David Ortiz is slowly making it's way down 6th Avenue in the left hand photo, amidst a sea of "boos" (which i didn't think was very nice even if this is a Yankees town) and the crowd in the right hand photo is rushing to get a glimpse of A-Rod (who hasn't been behaving very nicely either, lately).

It may seem like a long way off until the holidays, but they'll be here before you know it. We're already seeing "back to school" items, and wishing Summer would last a little longer. Holiday gifts will always run the gamut from "dollar store" to "champagne dreams" but with higher prices on just about everything, more modestly-priced items will be "what's hot" this year. Here are some of the items I've loved so far for the holidays (or for now):

These colorful items from Lodis are a perfect example of chic, but not over-the-top pricey. The pink, purple, blue and green Credit Card Case with Zipper Pocket from the Lodis "Very Hot Collection" are only $48.00, and there's a magnetic closure credit card/business card case in the same four sizzling, metallic leather, for just $42.00 The clutches on the left, also from Lodis,



I just loved these adorable, tweed earmuffs from Hat Attack Biki Baja. Earmuffs look cute, hold your hair in place without flattening it, and keep your head warm, but they're usually in boring leather, velvet or plastic. These come in black, chocolate or grey! Other tweed items in the collection include full hats, tote bags, and slippers.

Amrita Singh's accessories are sold at Amrita's sold at some of North America's top stores such as:Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Intermix, and Holt Renfrew, but you can also buy them online. They will add color to your holidays, or right now, for that matter. Her bamboo-textured, substantial enamel bangles come in a variety of bright, resort-worthy colors such as orange, lime and deep blue. A set of three is $100.00. Singh's Bangle Bangle bracelets are a collection of hand-made bangles from India, made from a variety of materials including wood, metal, and ‘lac’ (clay/wax material); they are embellished with several varieties of clear and colored stones, crystals, hand-enamel work, silk threading, and much more and start at just $50.00.

on the higher end of things, who could resist a fluffy down comforter from the Company Store? The St. Tropez Reversible Down Comforter has 500-550 down stuffing diamond quilted to keep the down in place. You can get this in a Down-Free version, too. The outer cover is 232-thread count cotton, an comes in seven different colors. Best of all, it's just $119.00. This is a gift that's perfect for someone that's always cold, or just because it's warm and cuddly! These can even be machine washed. The Company Store has tons of other comforters in different weights, too.

A computer is always a welcome and impressive gift This Dell Studio Notebook is under $800.00 and it's available in Staples Stores and Staples Online . It has a 15.4" display screen, 3 GB of memory and 250 GB of hard drive. Two things that make this notebook fun are the assorted colors (red, orange, pink, purple, blue and black) and also if the security protector that lets you identify the user with a thumbprint recognition (the little square on the bottom right hand side of the keyboard)-cool!

Give your fashionista friends something functional and fun, that won't go out of fashion: Joy Mangano's Huggable Hangars, available for at HSN and http://www.hsn.com/ in 12/20 and 48 packs for shirts or suits and pants. The Advice Sisters reviewed these in our June 2007 "What Works" Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column. I really love these hangars that are made of medium-impact polystyrene, with a flocked, velvety cover that grips even the slipperiest of fabrics -- I mean, they really will not fall off until you take them off, yet they're gentle to fabric. These can hold lingerie, but also anything up to 10 lbs, without breaking. This really makes a great gift for a hostess or housewarming gift, and to help organize your own closets, of course.

Also at HSN and http://www.hsn.com/ are items from supermodel Iman's Global Chic collection. Iman has traveled all over the world, and collected pieces that inspired her, from the plains of Africa to the Hollywood Hills. These look even better in person than in photos. The green Shopping Bag Tote $89.95 is large enough to be a weekender bag and also comes in red, green, black and white with natural straps, and there's also a denim version with red patent straps. The Hollywood Clutch $49.95 comes in black patent, snake skin and black matte. This one makes a great business bag, since you can put folders in it, or even a small laptop.

I love the Nike ACG (all conditions gear) clothing line that debuted last year. The innovative, sporty but fashionable line (see my review of the Summer SPF-protection clothing for men and women (and a few items for children) is exclusive to exclusive the 315 Dicks Sporting Goods Stores in 34 states, or at http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/ These pieces (available in stores and online at the end of August) are not only colorful, they're layer-able, in high-tech fabrics and range in price from pants and tops around $40.00 (this Zip Tech Top is $50.00) to a gorgeous Caledonia Systems Jacket with an outer jacket and inner liner that's like two jackets in one $250.00.


...remember that it's the thought that counts, not the size of the gift. But wrapping something in really great paper makes the gift that much better. Staples has personalized printing services that let you create paper goods that are a perfect expression of you. I particularly like the wrapping paper shown in the photo that let you design one with "Fido" dressed as Santa, or perhaps, a picture of the family! If nothing else, it makes gift wrapping, fun!

*note from alison: these products are for the holidays 2008, so some of these may not be immediately available. If you don't see them online or in the stores, please contact the companies, directly

A Bit About: MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK SWIM

I thought you might like to see some of the latest swim fashion (Summer's not over yet)--ALISON

MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK SWIM (here's a post event recap):

The sun has set on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim Monday, closing another outstanding season of resort and swimwear collections in Miami's South Beach. Veteran collections as well as fresh new faces from around the world brought international attention to the event. The week kicked off with a show and opening party by Italian favorite Diesel. Diesel models appeared on a glass runway floating over the pool, as they showed the hottest prep school-inspired swimwear looks for men, women and children. The Diesel show (this striped pair of shorts could be worn away from the beach, too) was followed by a musical performance from Pharrell's favorite Harvard Boys, Chester French. International fashion brands Custo Barcelona and tibi launched their inaugural swimwear collections making a splashing debut on the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim runway. Celebrity favorites who presented their looks on the runway included Ed Hardy Swimwear and ViX Swimwear.

The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim newcomers included Pistol Panties, Luli Fama (this pink, ruffled suit is so "girly") plus Poko Pano, SYLA by Sylvie Cachay and Tommy Bahama. The event'ss returning favorites roster featured Red Carter, this season's Mercedes-Benz Presents designer, Cia.Marítima and ANK by Mirla Sabino. Closing the week was Lifetime's How to Look Good Naked presented by XTRA LIFE LYCRA® and hosted by Carson Kressley.

In addition to the press, media corporations and retailers, the celebrities in the front row included Anna Kournikova, Carson Kressley, Billy Zane, Craig David, Dennis Rodman, Richie Rich, Thomas Jones, Megan Good, DJ Clue, America's Finest Seafarers the Top Officers of the US Coast Guard, among others! Over the course of five days, over 12,000 attendees enjoyed shows from Red Carter, this season's Mercedes-Benz Presents designer, Cia.Marítima, ANK by Mirla Sabino, tibi, Custo Barcelona, Zimmermann, XTRA LIFE LYCRA®, Diesel, ViX Swimwear, Tommy Bahama, SYLA by Sylvie Cachay, Ed Hardy Swimwear, Pistol Panties, Luli Fama and Poko Pano.

Mercedes-Benz, the event's title sponsor, was joined by American Express, DHL, LYCRA®, Smashbox Cosmetics, The Raleigh, Havaianas, Continental Airlines, Aveeno, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Scünci, Imperia Vodka, Peroni, Chambord, OLO Premium Brazilian Rum, BAWLS Guarana, smartwater, Fuze, POWERADE ZERO and Café Bustelo. Media partners include Ocean Drive Magazine, The Miami Herald, miami.com, California Apparel News Waterwear, The Swim Journal, ULTRA HD and Getty Images.

*all images courtesy of "Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week".

Create Cynthia Rowley's Fall 2008 Runway Makeup & Hair!

Cynthia Rowley (in black) backstage at her Fall 2008 show
all photos on this page by Alison Blackman

During Fall 2008 Fashion Week, I had the opportunity to go backstage and discover how we all can get the “straight off the runway” look inspired by the Cynthia Rowley Runway Show. You can check out my personal experiences, photos of backstage, the clothes, and the runway http://www.advicesisters.net/2008/02/sensational-cynthia-rowleys-pop-up-book. Now that Fall is actually coming closer, here are the actual products and "how-to" to create this "fairytale" look on your own in the coming months:

Cynthia Rowley's creative, carefree and clever shows never disappoint. To create the enchanted forest/fairytale children's pop-up book look that inspired the Fall 2008 clothes in Rowley's collection, the hair and makeup had to be perfect. Avon products made the vision a reality. This model is just waiting for the clothes to arrive and the show to begin!


The Hair: The hair look, created by Avon Global Stylist Advisors Allen Ruiz, Anthony Barrow and Chie Sugwara, was inspired by the romance of the Cynthia Rowley Collection. Ruiz and Barrow wanted to keep the girls looking beautiful with very soft romantic hair.

The look is matte in texture for movement on the runway, and shiny to keep with the romance of the collection. You can see from my photo just how stunning this was!



The team used Avon Advanced Techniques Volumizing Mousse on damp hair focusing on the roots to create a volume foundation and gave the models' hair shine throughout. You can see some of the Avon products in my photo. Hair was blow dried using the Advance Techniques Two-Sided Oval Brush. To add texture and volume to the hair the Advance Techniques Extra Hold Hair Spray was used while blow drying and back-combing the hair with the Advanced Techniques Flair Styler Brush. Finally, they applied a mist of Advance Techniques Mirror Shine Spray to create a "halo" effect at the crown adding to the contrasting of textures of smooth crown and texturized full body.



The Makeup: The makeup for Fall 2008, created by Charlotte Tilbury for Avon, was inspired by a fresh, modern storybook Victorian fairytale girl who looks like she has just come in from the cold. The skin is pale and luminous with flushed rosy cheeks using Avon Be Blushed Cheek Color in Pink Melon and Crushed Berry, also used on lips to create a natural “just ate berries” stain.

Here is a sample of the actual colors used on the models (the makeup artists were using black plastic plates as "palettes"--sometimes it's easiest to just use what you have available to make your job, easier!). Eyes are natural, yet fresh with Glazewear Liquid Lip Color in Clear on the eyelids to catch the light and give a subtle sheen. A light touch of SuperSHOCK Mascara in Black adds subtle definition to the lashes.



This look, toned down a bit for real life instead of the runway, is a perfect compliment to Fall fashions. You can re-create it at home! Visit www.avon.com!





*feel free to share this copyrighted material with your friends, or link to it on your blog, but it's not considered polite to copy and paste the entire story on your blog. Most blogs post a summary or the first paragraph,( 40 words) then post a link to the rest of the story. That helps increase click-throughs for everyone, and minimizes copyright issues. Please be considerate!

Glamour Gals Bracelet: Look Good & Do Good, Too!

The Glamour Gals is a unique, organization dedicated to fostering inter generational relationships between teens and seniors. Teen volunteers regularly visit local senior homes to give complimentary facials and makeovers, and to make compassionate connections with elderly women (and some men). These amazing, beautiful, enthusiastic, energetic, young women could be sitting at their computers on MySpace or shopping or doing something for themselves,. Instead, they are making a commitment to reach out to others and to give of themselves.

Back in May, I attended "The Glammies" the group's annual award and fun-raising event. I was so impressed with Glamour Gals that I reached out to the founder, Rachel Doyle, and asked what I could do to help. I am pleased to be associated with Glamour Gals and to help them spread the word about all the good things they are doing.

One thing I knew you'd want to know about right now is the Glamour Gals foundation GG Lace Bracelet $20.00 + shipping/handling Buy It Here: This limited edition, one-size-fits all, clear cuff bracelet captures a circle of black lace inside the bangle. This bracelet goes perfectly with the year's hottest fashion items and was featured in CosmoGIRL Magazine. The substantial, clear cuff with the surprise of black lace makes it a true conversation starter!

Each bracelet is packaged in a high gloss white box with hot pink tissue and includes a "You Inspire Me" blank card. I think this makes a universally lovely gift, and a very appropriate "thank-you" for any woman who inspires you! Buy a bunch and they'll arrive, pre-packed, and ready for giving at holiday time, for hostess gifts, for teachers, etc. Your purchase will not only help you and your lucky recipients look fashionable, the purchase price goes to fund the so-worthy endeavors of the Glamour Gals organization.

To get your bracelet, click here: and while you're on the site, check out all the wonderful things this organization does. If you are an adult, help your teens start a local chapter to reach out to the elderly in your neighborhoods. If you are a teen reading this, why not volunteer?!!

Organizations like Glamour Gals really do help the elderly feel wanted and appreciated...and that's so incredibly important (we will all be elderly some day if we live long enough...) I hope you will check out their web site http://www.glamourgals.org/ and support this worthy organization by purchasing their beautiful bangle bracelet.

Total Beauty Web tour for this week

The Makeup Divasreviews and shares photos of Mac's Sonic Chic Mineralize Blushes in Dainty and Merrily.

Tink at Casual Lavish explores other color options for Chanel Rodeo Drive nail polish.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings is having a fabulous giveaway of Marini Lash! http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=" target="_blank">Be sure to enter, and long lush lashes could be yours!

At Bare Budget Beauty, Jenn compares MAC Tendertones and the new L'Oreal HiP Jelly Balms! Which one do you think will win?

The Daily Cookie is celebrating her first reader newsletter with a GIVEAWAY! Sign up and enter for your chance to win a Kat Von D True Romance Beethoven palette for you and a friend.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy is back from her Caribbean vacation with a gorgeous Barbie-inspired makeup tutorial featuring pinks, blues, and purple hues from the latest M.A.C. collections!

Jamie of Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=" target="new">questions whether hair extensions are worth the price.

Viva Woman shares a list of where to get http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=" target="_blank"> free or inexpensive mineral makeup samples.

Is your makeup slip slidin' away in the heat? Beauty411 shares her thoughts on http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca target="_blank">Skindinavia Makeup Primers and Finishing Spray.

The Muse is diving into Fall Collections! Check out her review on Urban Decay's Hot New 24/7 Concealer Pencil!

Beauty's SPOT addresses the toxic lipstick drama with, http://beautysspot.blogspot.com/2008/07/lipstick-to-die-for.html">Lipstick, To Die For?

Alison of the Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success & Happiness Blog (that's me, of course) is loving a do-it-yourself fragrance kit by Bramble Berry that lets you create a signature scent in literally, seconds!

DMV Makeup Tip DO's for A Great Drivers License Photo

At the airport, the Security guy scrutinized my driver's license photo just a bit too long. But afterwards I realized that the photo was taken years ago and it is time for an update. But the dreaded license picture is usually taken after you've been waiting on lines for hours, your feet are hurting, and you haven't had the luxury of "hair & makeup" to glamorize the shot.

Physicians Formula has shared some makeup application tips from celebrity makeup artist Joanna Schlip, that might soften the blow every time you have to produce ID from your wallet:

TIP #1:Concealer – apply concealer on top of foundation and before you add powder. Use it to disguise broken capillaries, dark circles, pimples and blemishes and to even out skin tone. Joanna likes Physicians Formula Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Concealer Stick with SPF 15. The creamy stick blends easily and evenly. It is a talc-free formula good even for sensitive or break-out prone skin., formulated with 100% pure and gentle mineral extracts. It's available in 4 shades: Soft Yellow (guides dark, under-eye circles), Soft Green (reduces redness), Fair and Light. Price: $6.95

TIP#2:Bronzers – These will help you from being too pale in your photos, but apply it lightly, and just to the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin (all the spots where the sun naturally shines). Joanne likes the Physicians formula bronzers and blushes, because they offer sheer, natural color that looks believable, not "fake-baked."

TIP #3:Lash Curler – your fastest way to wide eyes and a well-rested look. Make sure to use on clean lashes for best results. If you already have mascara on, just comb through lashes first to remove excess product.

TIP #4:Mascara – Black mascara gives you the most definition without having to over apply product (remember, this is for a photo, not just your daily-routine makeup application). Use a lash comb to separate wet lashes.'

TIP #5:Eyeliner – match your eye color to your eyeliner. Browns, gilded bronzes, and wines are great for light eyes and dark eyes can pull off a more dramatic black. Silver and charcoals look best on green and blue eyes; rich browns for blue eyes and plums for green eyes. Pencil offers soft definition but for more precision and drama go with liquid versions. I like the Physicians Formula Eye Definer Felt-Tip Eye Marker $6.95 that makes it easy to draw on a line without making a mess, and gives you long wear (up to 24-hours) with a gentle formula that glides on in one stroke.

TIP #6:Blush – Rosy cheeks are an absolute must in a photo, as your bronzer isn't going to eradicate the devastating effects of ugly, DMV lighting. Joanne suggests Physicians Formula Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Loose Powder Blush $10.95 in an easy, gentle, talc-free formula with minerals such as Mica and Silica (gives your skin a smooth finish). The portable, flow-through brush automatically delivers just the right amount of powder in 6 shades: Pink Glow, Rosy Glow, Blushing Glow, Nude Glow, Natural Glow and Warming Glow.

TIP #7:Lip Gloss – Personally, I think a moistly-matte look is best, but if you can't live without gloss, apply it just the to middle of your lower lip and then rub your lips together so it spreads evenly. Stick to simple colors that compliment your look and go easy on sparkles and glitter. Joanne (and I) suggest Physicians Formula Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Lip Sheen $7.95. has 100% pure mineral pigments without irritating dyes, and a silky, long-lasting color and shine that feels nice, not sticky. Amethyst, Ruby and Sapphire powder offer a luxe, soft focus look to lips that help minimize the appearance of fine lines. The twist-it pen applicator has a silicone, slant-tip applicator lets you precisely place your gloss, even if you're juggling a purse and paperwork at the DMV. There are six shaes: Quartz, Pink Quartz, Rose Quartz, Moonstone, Sunstone and Pink Sapphire.

TIP #8:Powder – loose powder sets all the other products so that even if you're sweating under the less-than-wonderful conditions at the DMV, your complexion will still look shine-free (especially good if your skin is oily). Use the best quality power you can find as the finely milled powders will not settle into fine lines.

*Note from Alison: Also consider your clothing and accessories. It's amazing how "dated" you will look in that photo two years from now (I still shudder at a drivers license photo I once had that showed me with huge glasses worthy of Sir. Elton John that I insisted I had to wear, and a "Farrah-inspired" hairstyle). Avoid overly trendy. Don't overwhelm with large necklaces or overly-dangling earrings. And please, don't forget to SMILE....

Total Beauty Web tour for this week

The Total Beauty Bloggers have been busy this week. Here's what some of my TB colleagues are up to!




Musings of a Muse shares the a review of Lancome Maharani Jewels Fall Collection featuring the gorgeous Elephant Bronzer.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings has no visible cellulite...find out how she tested a cellulite-reducing gel and saw results!

Viva Woman finds out if the new Canmake Concealer Founder UV can really provide that natural finish, for skin that looks beautiful, even at point-blank range.

Get Twisted with a free giveaway at Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog

My blog, the Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success & Happiness Blog reviews Sally Hansen Lip Lab, an entire line of affordable, effective, lip products that do more than beautify.

How to get the makeup look: Keri Hilson-Talking Makeup!

Fabulous Over Forty was never a mineral makeup fan until now! See what mineral foundation has won her over.

Bare Budget Beauty tells you why she loves Olay Regenerist Night Cream so much! It's her budget secret to great beauty sleep.

Beauty Tyrant shares some of her crazy beauty tips that work! Are you game for them?

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee has a Beauty -Filled Weekend with some other Total Beauty Bloggers.

Amber at Beauty Blogging Junkie reports on David Wright, Big Papi, Blake Lively, Lauren Conrad, and Chace Crawford at the vitaminwater Best of New York party's red carpet.

Beauty411 tells you about a portable skincare system that's as on-the-go as you are. Perfect for vacay!

The Beauty Alchemist tries out professional line Nix'ie Cosmetics.

At Fifty-Cent Head, experience the amazing perfume oils of

Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab (BPAL) with an ongoing review series covering the company's Carnaval Diabolique-themed scents!

Beauty Anonymous introduces you to the smoky black colors of Exceptionnel de Chanel Collection!

The Makeup Divas tells you about a new mineral foundation that will leave your skin looking flawless!

Jenn and Christine over at Beauty in Real Life are having another giveaway, this time over $145 of Skinn Cosmetics!! Click here to enter.

Beauty Junkie in SF shows you how you can look like a superstar singer/songwriter with a few great products from MAC.

Beauty's Spot found a quick, well-designed, effective, at-home tooth whitener!

Love Gossip Girl? Glossypink tells you how to get Blake Lively's gorgeous makeup!

Happily Ever-After Comes in a Pink Bag-Minimus Wedding Day Survival Gear

The The Pink Bag Wedding Day Survival Gear Bag by Minimus may not help you find your handsome prince or ensure living happily ever-after, but it will guarantee a more stress-free wedding day. This all-in-one wedding kit features a re-useable, washable, bright pink polyester tote bag (15.5 inch L x 12 inch H, zippered main compartment) with strong web handles that make it a practical memento you can use for the honeymoon later on. Inside are a whopping 39 total products) that will cover just about any emergency a bride and her attendants (not to mention moms and dads) might need on wedding day.




The products inside are not necessarily romantic or glamorous. They're little things that you may take for granted--until you need them. Alas, without this kit you might already be at the ceremony or reception site. The items in this kit can save the day. You get:

4 Kleenex® Tissues Pocket Pack, 1 Static Guard®, 1 WrinkleSpray Wrinkle Relaxer / Reducer, 1 Evercare Lint Pic-Up, 1 Sewing Kit in case, 2 Shout® Portable Wipes, 1 Banana Boat® Sport Sunblock SPF30 (tube), 2 Tampax® Regular Tampons (single), 1 TRESemme® Hair Spray - Aerosol, 1 Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid® 8 pack, 1 Clear eyes® Handy Pocket Pal®, 1 Pop-Up Hairbrush with Mirror, 1 Shoe Shine Wipes, 1 Women Degree® Ultra Clear anti-perspirant & deodorant - Pure Satin. 1 Lubriderm® Moisture Lotion, 1 Ms Manicure Purse Size Emery Boards, 1 LA Fresh Dental Finger Mitt, 1 Tylenol® Extra Strength, 1 NoDoz®, 1 Rolaids® Peppermint Antacid, 1 Blistex® Medicated Lip Ointment, 1 OraLine® Floss & Go®, 1 Bayer® Aspirin, 1 Pepto Bismol®, 1 PDI® Nail Polish Remover Pad, 2 Nice'n Clean® Facial Make-up Remover Cloths, 1 SweetSpot Labs® on-the-go wipettes- geranium lavender, 1 Dry Hands®, 1 Alka Seltzer®, 1 Advil®, 1 Vicks® DayQuil® LiquiCaps®, 1 Benadryl®, 1 Altoids® Peppermints Sugar-free Smalls.




The cost of the Pink Bag Wedding Day Survival Gear is $45.16 *Orders within the U.S. over $20 are shipped free via FedEx Ground (Hawaii and Alaska do not qualify for free shipping). All Ground shipments go out within three business days of the order being placed. The ability to handle emergencies on the most important day of a couple's life?????Priceless! This would be a welcome gift for a shower or for the mother of the bride/groom, too.

Minimus.biz, is a company that specializes in packaging cute kits with all things "mini." We reviewed the Air Travels Essentials Kit and the Cold & Flu Care Package in our January What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/WWarchives/wwJANFEB08.html

Visit www.minimus.biz for information and ordering

Sally Hansen Lip Lab-Lovely Lip Treats for Luscious Lips

I never leave the house without at least a couple of lip glosses in my purse, because it's the easiest way to "freshen up" when my energy and image is wilting. But lip glosses aren't just beautifiers anymore, they can also pack in lots of lip-loving pampering and protectants.

Lip Lab by Sally Hansen has a variety of pampering products, some of which treat specific lip challenges, and others offer a good variety of color and shine options. Four items specifically offer treatment at just $9.95 each: Prep & Perfect Lipcare; Overnight Lip Recovery; Lip Fix Lip Repair; and PM Lip Plumper. There are also two Lip Plumping Products ($9.95 each) that offer color as well as volume: Lip Blush Plumping Balm and Gentle Plumping Lip Treatment. For simply beautiful color and shine, two fantastic Lip Glosses $6.95 each, delight: a sparkling Lipnotic Gem Gloss and a Satin Effects Lip Gloss.

Here's a rundown:

Fading & Bleeding: One of the challenges of wearing lip gloss is keeping it on your lips. Prep & Perfect Lipcare locks on lip color and helps prevent it from feathering, bleeding and fading, thanks to a botanical moisture shield that makes a "canvas" if you will, to give the color something smooth to adhere to. It also smoothes, moisturizes and conditions lips, so you have more reasons to use it. Simply stroke the wanded applicator over your bare lips and then swipe on your favorite lipstick or lip gloss. The product feels soft and moisturizing, and your investment of a few seconds before applying your lip color will pay dividends for hours, allowing you to "set it and forget it" when it comes to your lip color.

Lip Lines and Wrinkles: If your lips and the area surrounding them is dry or "maturing," you already know that keeping any lip color from running into the tiny lines and crevices is a challenge. Line Fix Lip Repair can help, with a formula that hydrates and renews lips, and instantly feels in line, so they won't plague you. A high tech marine collagen and sodium hyaluronate (youth-boosting ingredients) helps protect against moisture loss in a unique, clear, odorless gel delivered in a "dial-up" silvery pen. used regularly, the tiny lines look and feel less prominent. Keep one at your desk and "dial up" moisture, often TIP: use this before applying your lip color as well as the Prep & Perfect, for impressive results.

Dy, Cracked Lips: If your lips are very dry, you can undo some of the damage while you sleep and wake up to smoother lips by using Overnight Lip Recovery. All it takes is seconds. Simply apply the the clear, odorless treatment (dispensed from a cool-looking silvery slant-tipped tube). This intensive lip treatment (with a slight, minty scent) has oligopeptides (to boost lip fullness) Vitamins A, C and E, and yucca, to help deal with disasters such as dry and peeling lips. It hydrates and heals, then protects against future moisture loss. My dry lips felt softer, and continued to feel moist the next day.

Plumper Lips: You can also sleep your way to plumper lips with PM Lip Plumper. A 24-hour time-released retinol & peptide complex actually helps to turn back the signs of aging, while collagen boosts moisture and offers plumping benefits. The slightly vanilla-y overnight plumping formula is fragrance and irritant-free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist tested. This does help give the appearance of poutier lips, but unlike a lot of lip plumpers, it won't tingle too much, so you can sleep without disturbance. It comes in a blue squeeze tube with a pointy, silver cap. Use it every evening before you go to bed or whenever you really feel like it. You may not see instant results, but after continued use, Advice Sisters reviewers reported lips looked more youthful. You may not be able to completely turn back the hands of time, but if you're spending a lot of time in the sun this Summer, and/or you're over a certain age, every little bit helps.

Sally Hansen doesn't scrimp on the glam factor in their lip glosses, either. The Gentle Plumping Lip Treatment comes in six easy-to-wear, super-shiny, sheer colors that offer just a hint of tint: "Tender" (shimmery rose); "Serene" (sheer berry); "Happy" (shimmery light pink); "Playful" (shimmery peach) and "Tease" (shimmery nude); and "Clear." The silky, gel gloss is gorgeous! The light-reflecting properties of the gloss, plus a peptide complex and time-released hydrospheres make lips look fresh, full, and pouty-- without pain. And the packaging has a tiny oval mirror right on the tube, so you can see what you're doing without funbling for a mirror--a nice little touch.

The Sally Hansen Lip Blush Plumping Balm also help plump up lips with a slightly tingly, clear, super-shiny gel gloss that is dispensed from a soft-sided squeeze tube with a brush tip (nice touch). After the gloss is glowing on your lips, making them look pouty, the color develops to a sheer, pink gloss. Unlike some of these "mood" glosses that are activated by your unique body chemistry, this one appears to stay rosy, not garish--and that's great. But that's not all: The formula has peptides and marine-filling spheres that enhance the plumping effect, plus natural antioxidants that help condition dry and/or thin lips. Color, condition and plumping all in one easy-to-use-tube makes this a "must-have" in your purse.

The Satin Effects Lip Gloss gives you even more pampering color options. This wanded tube of gloss comes in a slim-slant-tipped squeeze tube, dispensing a silky, pearly, blendable color gloss that you can slick on almost sheer, or add more for nearly metallic and super-shiny color. There are ten colors with sexy names like "Seduction" (rosed-copper); "Pleasure" (light peachy-pink), "Romantic" (shimmery bronze); and "Intrigue" (red/rose).

I love shimmery lip glosses for their light, reflecting, lip-enhancing properties, so I've saved my favorite Sally Hansen Lip Gloss review for last: The Lipnotic Gem Gloss is a fantastic, super-shiny, super-sexy, glittery gem of a product that comes in a slim, wanded tube. These sheer glosses give your lips a wet and glassy finish that actually hydrates and softens, with sunflower seed oil, minerals, and vitamins. The effect off this super-sheer, super-shiny, gloss is dazzling. If your lips are in good shape (thanks to the Sally Hansen products I mentioned above) these glosses are "trés Jolie" (as in "pretty" and "Angelina"). If your lips aren't quite what you'd like, these glosses do what "soft touch" does for photographs...dull the rough edges so all you see is beauty. They're so inexpensive, but so amazingly great! There's "Precious" (clear) " to wear alone or enhance virtually any other lip color (I like mine with dark colors for night-time glam without glitter) and nine other color including: "Bling Bling" (berry), "Lavish" (plum-so "in" right now) and "Treasure" (a perfect, sheer pink).

What's exceptional about these Sally Hansen products is that not a thing will set you back more than the cost of a sandwich and soda, but they will help your lips look like a million. Mine were so improved after just trying these products to write this review for you, I am hooked. Value and effective products are even more welcome in these economic times.

Total Beauty Web tour for this week

Hazy, hot and humid....that's been our weather all week. But the Total Beauty Web Tour for this week showcases blog posts that help make Summer, easier.

The Muse brings you more Japanese Cosmetic Summer Collections with her review of Canmake's new eye shadow palettes!!

Viva Woman ask if facial mists will help set or disperse your makeup.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings tells you what she thinks about Benefit's newest fragrance, b spot.

Elke shows her favorite trick to getting your makeup on fast in the morning, and have fun in the process.

Come read The Makeup Divasreview and see swatches of the new Bobbi Brown Mauve Collection.

Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog shows you how to make your eyes look bigger in 4 easy
steps..

Beauty Tyrant helps you to prevent adult acne. Check out some of these simple but effective tips.

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee finds another product to encourage her mascara addiction.

Jenn at Bare Budget Beauty reviews the Aveeno Positively Ageless Lifting & Firming Eye Cream. Is it a great find or a bust?

Kari at Fabulous Over Forty discovers the Artemis Woman Personal Grommer. Is it love at first swipe?

Beauty's SPOT (previously a mineral SPF kind-of-girl) discovers the one and only lotion SPF 30 she will ever put on her face. Ever.

The Beauty Alchemist tries and loves Dr. Ci:Labo's acne/oilyskincare for adults.

Beauty Anonymous loves the summer makeup shades of Shiny Sand Beach!

I'm a fan of Advice of products that multi-task and are travel-friendly. One that's tailor-made for Summer, in case you missed the review on the Advice Sisters Blog, is the Susan Posnick ColorFlow, It does a lot of good things for your skin and your beauty routine!

Wearing one of jewelry designer Staci Caporuscio’s Famous Faces beaded bracelets from Pink Pooch Designs is really having a piece of wearable art. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but Ms. Caporuscio has managed to turn thousands of beads into a "photo" image of the likes of Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Elvis Presley and Audrey Hepburn, as well as more modern day celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Miley Cyrus.

The hand-crafted bracelets are so astounding in person, I was nearly speechless when I saw the Marilyn Monroe Bracelet $127.00 . The photos cannot possibly do it justice. The cost for one of these originals is a mere $50.00 to $150.00 (depending upon complexity) and you can get a custom design and size upon request.

Ms. Capruscio’s passion for beading images into bracelets apparently started when she had knee surgery (I just had some a few months ago and it didn't make me feel at all creative), but she was looking through a crafter’s catalogue and apparently was inspired.Just to give you a better idea of what the beaded faces really look like, here's a close-up of the Marilyn Monroe bracelet, woven in shades of black, white, gray and silver beads that shine and give it depth. The face looks like a black and white negative. Some bracelets (e.g. "I Love Lucy" are in full color). The ribbon bracelets have a sleek line, as they're held not with a bulky clasp, but with a slender, silver bar clasp that slips one side into the other (it’s a bit tricky to handle at first). The bracelet looks like an unbroken ribbon, smooth and cool against the wrist. Unlike traditional beaded pieces, this one is woven on plastic and not thread, so it's substantial, and it won't bend or roll up. Staci also offers another, snapshot bracelet with a smaller photo image and several strings of beads holding it fast to your wrist with an adjustable chain and lobster claw clasp (better for those who are not nimble). She also makes beaded earrings, pendants, and stunning, beaded rings, some with pearls and Swarovski crystal centers.

If you don't want to wear someone else’s famous face on your wrist, Staci also has adorable, beaded bracelets with other designs such as her orange, black and white tattoo flames design and one with an alarmingly vibrant lightening storm! I'd personally love to see the Advice Sisters two-headed logo on one of these charming, one-of-a-kind bracelets. I don’t know how long it really takes to make one, but I can’t think of a better treat for yourself, or for someone special. You'll also get a Certificate of Authenticity, signed by the artist, that has a registered number, making these investment pieces at modest prices that will bring you fashion dividends for a long, long time. Yours might just become a treasured family heirloom!

Robert Verdi, Beverly Johnson, and Kim Alexis celebrate ageless beauty in She's Got the Look

Celebrity judge, television personality, and super-stylist Robert Verdi has been holding informal soirees with a select group of friends, colleagues and media, to screen each episode of the reality television show "She's Got the Look" (Wednesdays on TVLand). The show follows a group of absolutely gorgeous women who are, very refreshingly, all over age 35. One lucky winner gets a a second chance for a supermodel career, a life changing contract with the world famous Wilhelmina Modeling Agency, and a spread in Self magazine .

I was invited to see the finale of "She's Got the Look" sponsored by Aveeno, featuring Robert Verdi in person. He's as great in person as on the television screen, with sparkling eyes, a genuine, wide smile, and a magnetic personality that pops off the tv sreen (in this case,a huge Panasonic television in a giant "living room"). While Verdi's adorable puppy playfully chewed the fingers of the ladies sitting next to me, we watched the final episode unfold.


The format of "She's Got the Look" is familiar to the masses from the likes of "American Idol" and "Americas Next Top Model," with celebrity judges, a coveted prize, and hopefuls vying for the winning spot by participating in a variety of challenges (one episode had the ladies ascending ladders to swing on a trapeze high above the ground--a chance to conquer fear as well as look beautiful in a photograph). "She's Got the Look" is first and foremost, still a beauty/modeling contest, but the show forces the contestants to show more than one dimension. For example, in the finale, the contestants have to design and execute their own concept for a cover for Self Magazine. The show sends positive messages along with the glam factor and it's a small but significant step in the right direction to help shift the perception that aging is unattractive. The celebrity judges (all over age 35) have proven talent and wonderful personalities. My favorite is of course, the charming Robert Verdi, and celebrity supermodels Beverly Johnson and Wilhelmina boss Sean Patterson, plus a host-with-the-most (personality that is) in former model-Kim Alexis (stunning at last night's screening in a simple, berry-colored shift dress).



What makes me really happy about "She's Got the Look" is that the beauties are not the usual blank, unsophisticated, underweight and under-age version of a woman. Despite some snarky comments on the Internet that I've seen, there's nothing lightweight about following a dream, even if it's just to be a pretty face on a magazine cover (and the money and