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Beautiful Blossoms from Barielle's Wildflower Collection Nail Polish

Shades by Barielle Wildflower Collection Nail Polish

It’s Spring! Stash those berries, plums and blackened everything colors, and make nails look blooming new, with colors that take their cue from nature. The Shades by Barielle Wildflower Collection Nail Colors $8.00 feature six Springtime shades that look like a bouquet in, and for, your hands.

I think of the four blue and two pink/peach shades as blossoms and stems.

"Blossom" is a creamy, opaque peach. "Daring Dahlia" is a clear, bright, not-quite-neon, with tons of shine and a hint of silver metallic. "Snap Dragon" is a super shimmery,, dreamy, sea foam green with lots of pearle.

Even better, three of these beautiful shades will give 100% of their proceeds to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, if you purchase them at http://www.ocrf.org./

"June Bug" is a medium soft blue with fuchsia glitter adding just a hint of glamour. It isn’t dark, as in the blackened navy blues of Fall and Winter. It's a medium blue, subtle enough to embrace for work, as well as for fun. "

A Bouquet for Ava" is a Caribbean blue, the turquoise-ish color you see when you’re approaching a Caribbean island from the air. The clear, opaque color makes a bold statement that’s fresh and modern.

My favorite is "Myzra’s Meadiow." This color is a light lime green with silver glitter that actually reminds me of celery. When I was reviewing this collection, it was the first color I used,a few months ago. Although it is a far cry from the usual, ladylike pink or nude, there’s something so compelling about it. I tried this color now, , and got tons (and I mean, tons) of compliments.



As you can see from the photo, these colors are unique enough to shake up your look, but not blow your boss (or your mother, or your boyfriend) away! New shades like green, blue and teal are a little leap, not a huge one!


The polishes all have Barielle’s signature 3-free formula (free of toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl-phthlate). These are safe enough to use throughout a pregnancy! They are also chip resistant (my personal DIY manicure lasted for 5 days without a case or top coat). http://www.barielle.com/. Barielle's collection is hard to beat!


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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Whish Body Wash, and Sugar Scrub

If you had three wishes, would one of them be a beautifully scented bath and body line? Well, maybe not, but Whish does have a Body Butter Body Wash and Sugar Scrub collection called: "Three Whishes" that is hard not to love! The products are in lemongrass, almond, or pomegranate. These are scents that both men and women will love.

The Advice Sisters have previously reviewed Wish Shave Crave (the first non foaming shaving cream for women) and Shave Savour (the first "after shave" product for women) in previous What Works column. All of these deliciously scented products make you feel pampered, and contain products that are paraben, sulfate, TEA & DEA, and petrochemical Free.

But there is so much more! Whish Three Whishes Body Wash $22.00 13 oz. is full of moisturizing and calming, natural ingredients. Organic shea butter, organic raspberry butter and organic aloe moisturize, while a combination of wheat, sugar, and corn derived ingredients cleanse. Organic cucumber and organic marigold, smoothe. The pearly pink liquid is dispensed from a clear, plastic pump bottle, allowing the fruity scent to waft through your shower.

While you’re at it, you can slough away some of those dead, dull, itchy, dry, and generally icky skin cells on legs and arms with Three Whishes Sugar Scrub. The large, plastic jar is so mild you can even use it before you shave your legs, but the product is slightly gritty–not so much it irritates you skin, but just enough to be effective. Even better, it isn’t the usual, runny, greasy, messy stuff that falls off your body the minute you try to apply it. The consistency of Three Whishes Sugar Scrub $38.00 12 oz. features a moisturizing base of organic beeswax and shea butter., whipped to become a soft solid. Scoop out just the amount you need and it will stay put as you exfoliate. Brown sugar, raspberry seed, and bamboo powder do the heavy lifting, to exfoliate, while organic shea butter, organic, antioxidant raspberry butter and organic aloe moisturize, and Vitamin E extract, and organic avocado oil, renew your skin, The product has no preservatives, but it is supposed to hold it’s consistency for up to a year. If It starts to get "Runny" you haven’t exfoliated often enough.That won’t be a problem though–this exfoliator is a pleasure to use so you will reach for it, often. The Whish products are a bit pricier than some, but the exceptional essential oil "flavors" and natural and organic, body-pampering formulas are worth the little splurge.

There's also a Body Butter $25.00 5 fl. oz. with organic shea butter, organic raspberry butter, organic aloe, organic seaweed and organic bran oil in all three "flavors" to soothe and smooth and moisturize. the perfect triple play to make skin wonderful, and a pleasing experience for all.

Visit the Whish Web Site for more information, and to order

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Maybelline New York's Sweet Thing Collection is a Treat!

Maybelline New York's Sweet Thing Collection

Spring is a time to lighten up, literally and figuratively. That includes your color palettes for body and face. Maybelline New York has come up with a limited edition collection called the "Sweet Thing Collection." that is a delightful bunch pastels for eyes, lips and nails. You can see the entire collection in the photo I took, above,

This collection has all the hallmarks of a ladylike, Winter-to-warmer-weather, collection: sherbet and cupcake colors that are a soft but modern take on days gone by, when women and girls shopped for "Spring" coats that rivalled Easter Eggs for their innocent, girly, happy, pastel, hues.

The Express Finish Nail Color $4.25 dries in 45 seconds. The longest you'll have to invest time-wise is deciding which colors you can't live without: Sweetie Pie, Minty, Bubble Pink, Pink Sophisticatiohn, Candy Coated, Sweet Clementine, Pie in the Sky, and Goody Plum Drop . My favorites are the unexpected colors: the soft, smooth green called "Minty," and the velvety but light plum of Goody Plum Drop. There's also a soft blue "Pie in the Sky." These are all fun to wear, although maybe not to the most corporate offices. The pinks, peaches and soft orange ("Sweet Clementine") are all appropriate for anyone, anywhere. You can't go wrong no matter what colors you choose!

Maybelline also has four new Expert Wear duo Eye Shadow $4.50 that coordinate with some of the nail polish colors (you can see that I paired them up in the photo above): Pie in the Sky, Goody Plum Drop, Excite-Mint, and Just Peachy. There's something for everyohne, featuring softly shimmered shadows paired as light and medium. The shadows are sheer, but you can layer them if you wish. Pie in the Sky pairs a soft blue with a soft grey. Excite-Mint pairs up two soft greens. Goody Plum Drop pairs a medium purple with a soft, light plum, and Just Peachy pairs a whisper-soft lemon with a sheer peach. For those who like the portability and blend-ability of pencils, there are six different Eye Express Cream Shadow Sticks $6.95: Oh my Meringue, Touch of Toffee, A La Mauve, Lovely Lilac, Frosted, and Minty (*my photo only shows two: Minty and Lovely Lilac). These slim, short cream sticks are frosty and easy to blend. They're ideal for a makeup bag when you travel. TIP: Layer Maybelline's Expert Wear Duo Eye Shadow over the Eye Express Cream Shadow stick. The color will intensify, and wear hours longer.

Let's not ignore your lips! Maybelline's Color Sensational Lip Gloss $6.49 is available in Sweet Caramel (light copper), Sweet & Sassy (warm, light pink), Sweet Tooth (light pink), Triple Yum (coral pink), and Strawberry Glaze. The darkest is Strawberry Glaze, but it isn't bold or dark. All of these colors are very natural. This one is a clear, bright pink with just a hint of shimmer, to tint your lips with a very sheer coating of strawberry. You can layer one color on another just for fun, and still won't get too much intensity, but you wil get lots of shine. This gloss is inexpensive, but it feels silky, not sticky. A must-have in your makeup bag.

You can get pieces (or all) of Maybeline New York's Sweet Thing collection at mass retailers nationwide, but like the early spring blooms, the collection will fade away in a few months...so hurry!

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved.All photos by Alison Blackman. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html )

TJ MAXX & Marshalls Outfit you for Spring, For MUCH MUCH Less

These two sets of Spring outfits are exactly the same, but in each set, one has a fabulous secret? Can you guess what it is?

A: One of the outfits in each pair costs much, much less than the other!

How could that be?

The answer is simple: one set in each pair is from a department store. The other set is from one of the famous off-price stores: TJ Maxx or Marshalls!


Fall 2010 Fashion week just ended in NYC, but in the real world, we're all thinking about what we're going to get for Spring, 2010. So this is a perfect time to tell you a little bit about TJ Maxx and Marshalls, and how "off-price" stores like these can help you get the brand new, brand-new items you want, without going broke.

I really don't like the term "off-price" it sounds negative. But there's nothing "off" about shopping at stores that offer discounts "off" the retails prices. TJ Maxx and Marshalls offer many of the same, trendy items that are seen in big department stores and retails outlets and in some cases, you can take home the exact, same item at more than 60% off the suggested, retail prices. You can see the actual tags on the garments and know this to be a fact. And TJ Maxx and Marshalls don't just have women's clothing, they carry items for every member of the family, and also housewares, beauty, decor, hobby, and gourmet items. These are not damaged or seconds, or from last season (85% of items are current season). And the items are exactly the same, not low-quality outlet items, or knock-offs.

Even better, the merchandise changes constantly so it's always fresh, and always a "treasure hunt."

How do they do it? Off-price stores like TJMaxx and Marshalls buy merchandise directly from designers, but much closer to the season than department stores do. That means that they can purchase whatever "overage" is available. The designers want to sell all of their merchandise, so they negotiate a good deal. The savings get passed on to you, the consumer.

I've been a fan of TJ Maxx and Marshalls, for years. While there is some pleasure in bringing home a dress in a high end retailer's shopping bag, once the item is in your closet, no one knows where you got it. They just know you look great! There is some difference of opinion about which off-price store is trendier: TJ Maxx or Marshalls. But it's really a matter of taste. I've shopped at so many of both of these stores, I think it has more to do with when you're there (so go often) and what area you are in (different parts of the country appear to have items that would be most appealing to the local population, but not always). In any case, I have rarely been at either one of these stores where I haven't found something I wanted (or didn't know I wanted until I saw it--and a great price). When I go to TJ Maxx or Marshalls, I know I'll be spending money...but I'll be happy about it because I got what I wanted for less!

No matter what time or in what town you visit one of these stores, you'll see different merchandise that reflects what's trendy and current. If you like to shop, the idea that you can get true bargains every single time you visit, is exciting. But even if you're the "I just want to get what I need and leave" type of shopper, if you like to save money (and who doesn't?) , you will find that the stores are easy to access, clean, and pleasant to shop in.

Here are a few photos I took at a recent TJ Maxx/Marshalls Spring preview showcasing some Spring trends you might want to consider. These items are representative of what's in the stores, right now:


bright prints make for a happy Spring!



subtle nudes are always easy to wear



carry a colorful handbag and feel upbeat, all day!


decorated flats are a must-have for every urban fashionista




I hope these photos make you want to get off the net, and go shopping. Visit: http://www.tjmaxx.com/index.asp and http://www.marshallsonline.com/ to get customer updates, information, and find stores near you!

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters
or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Gilty Pleasures Weekly Blog Read for the week of February 28, 2009

Alison of the Advice Sistersloves the Spring 2010 collection of gorgeous cosmeticsfrom FACE Stockholm! NEWS: CHECK OUT THE BRAND NEW, UP THIS WEEK, WHAT WORKS BEAUTY, COSMETICS & FASHION REVIEW COLUMN AT http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html -HERE IS WHAT OTHER Gilty Pleasures Bloggers are up to this week:

Dao from My Makeup Blog shows you how to trim and style your side-sweep bangs without going to the salon.

Nicole Pearl, The Beauty Girl reveals her favorite body cream and is offering 3 readers the chance to win one for themselves

Missy of LuxutyBeautyProducts.blogspot.com would like to share a wonderful company that will help you protect your precious skin and feel good at the same time.

The Informed Makeup Maven spills her secret for maintaining her skin's warmth during winter.

Nicole Pearl, The Beauty Girl reveals her favorite body cream and is offering 3 readers the chance to win one for themselves

Missy of LuxutyBeautyProducts.blogspot.com would like to share a wonderful company that will help you protect your precious skin and feel good at the same time.

Gio from Beautiful With Brains reveals theBeauty History: Cosmetics in Ancient Greece" target="_blank">cosmetic secrets of teh Ancient Greeks.

Ageless Elaine points out that summer is coming but the living may not be easy because of shaving and waxing" so take a tip from Kelly Ripa and get laser hair removal.

Jacket Dresses can really dress up your look, be it professional, for church, a special occasion or even a formal occasion. Trendy Plus Size Clothes picks this season's best Plus Size Jacket Dresses.

Do you need eye makeup tricks? A lot of people have no idea how to apply eye makeup to get the exact look they want! Here are the best Eye Makeup Tricks from The Beauty Blog.

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Laser Cosmetica, the "Star Wars" of Spas for Skin

Recently, I had a chance to visit a unique spa called Laser Cosmetica with nine locations in New York, Philadelphia, and Miami. For more than eight years, Laser Cosmetica has been offering laser aesthetic services. I went to the Flagship Location in Chelsea (18 West 23rd Street, 2nd Floor, NYC) to see what they're all about. Laser Cosmetica offers all sorts of treatments (including Botox & cosmetic fillers), but they're not for relaxation alone. As the name implies, they focus on laser treatments for your skin, ranging from hair removal, to photo facials.

What is a Laser? The name LASER is an acronym for "Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation." The first laser was built by Theodore Maiman in 1960 at Hughes Research Labs, although light therapy has been around much, much longer. I'm not going to go into the details of how lasers work, because you'd be reading this blog all day, but there are two types of laser: Cold, and hot. Cold laser treatments treat the surface of the skin, while hot laser treatments affect deeper tissues. Cold laser treatment uses a lower grade of light that, rather than “cutting” or “burning”, simply encourages the natural healing properties of your cells through stimulation. It may seem very futuristic, but lasers have been used for war and for peace, and for a variety of uses, depending upon the type of laser. As new laser technology is developed and refined, new uses are being found for them (e.g. The Zerona Laser from which I recently lost 11.1 inches in two weeks).


A view of the front desk and treatment rooms on the first floor of Laser Cosmetica


At Laser Cosmetica, one of the treatments popular with models (who must endure tons of goop on their faces, but still be ready for a close up) , as well as women and men who want their skin to look more luminous, is the Photo Facial. A Photo Facial uses a laser to remove discoloration (e.g. age spots) and textural irregularities. It also boosts collagen production and causes a bit of a tightening effect on skin, while reducing fine lines. If you are someone with sun damage, or other environmental damage. This treatment, I was told, works especially well on people with fair skin and blue eyes, but if you have sun damage, it is never too late to protect your skin and mitigate whatever damage you can see. I was also told that for those who have flushing, redness and/or rosacea, studies have shown that these symptoms can improve more than 75% on average. Generally, Laser Cosmetica suggests that clients do this treatment in five sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart. I had one session to see what it was like.




Unlike the zerona laser, that you can't feel penetrating your skin at all, the laser for the photo facial does have a sensation on your skin, although it isn't at all unpleasant. It feels a little like a gentle breeze, and once once or twice did I feel a "snap!" as the laser zapped a burst capilary (a good thing, because it also removed the redness, there). One other thing you will notice is the smell of burning hair as the laser goes over tiny facial hairs (also a good thing, because who really wants those on their face, anyway?). The treatment took about 45 minutes and was actually, quite relaxing. The results are immediate and long lasting (obviously, if you do this five times plus perhaps monthly maintenance, you'll get an even better result than I did). On the Laser Cosmetica web site, you are warned that with the photo facial, brown spots and freckles temporarily become darker before they lighten and particularly sensitive areas may crust. But immediately, my skin looked brighter, smoother, and definitely less red. I have really sensitive skin, and as far as I could tell, there wasn't even any irritation (with a regular facial, I would look like a lobster). I didn't wear makeup into the spa, and left wearing tinted moisturizer with SPF, but when I washed it off at home, my skin still looked amazing! I am not a physician, but I have been told that in general, these lasers are safe, and there are no long term health hazards from the t or thermal energy used in these treatments. If you are unsure or worried, please consult with your doctor. That's always a safe bet.

Whether you are waiting for your treatment, or just want to relax for a moment, afterwards, you can enjoy the privacy of Laser Cosmetica's 23rd Street locations's "urban garden."

Laser Cosmetica's slogan is simple and direct: "We obsess so you won’t have to." It is even on the labels of the Skin Cosmetica skin care products that Laser Cosmetica offers to clients pre and popst-treatments. I haven't had a chance to review any of these yet, because of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week but I soon will, and you'll find my review here on the Advice Sisters Blog and an upcoming What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column on the Advice Sisters Web Site. In case you are wondering, all treatments are performed under medical supervision by licensed estheticians and electrologists. Laser Cosmetica’s 12-member consultation board includes physicians Dr. Alan Gold, Dr. Joshua Fink and Dr. Sam Beran.

The downside (if it really is one) is that high-tech treatments don't come at bargain prices. When I asked for a rate card, I was told that there really isn't one, because each person receives a specialized plan for optimal results. But when I pressed, a bit, suggesting that my readers would probably need to know what they were in for, cost-wise, I was told that, for example, the one treatment I had (out of a suggested, five) was approximately $500.00 That may be a small price to pay for gorgeous skin, but if you need a justification for the cost, consider that many of these treatments offer immediate and semi-to-permanent results. You might also feel better knowing that the company, founded by enterpreneur, Ryan Bloch, also has charitable partnerships with very worthy organizations such as the Children's Miracle Network, Learning Leaders in New York, and Covenant House.

There are five Laser Cosmetica locations in Manhattan, one each in Westchester, Great Neck, Philadelphia, and Miami. Check "Locations" on the Laser Cosmetica Web Site to find the one closest to you and to book your appointment, Calll 888-459-5793.

copyright 2010 Alison Blackman. Nothing on the blog may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters

or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman . I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

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版权所有©艾莉森布莱克曼邓纳姆。保留所有权利。姐妹的意见是注册美国商标。没有内容可以使用或复制的书面permission.If您要使用我的工作，请，在- advicesisters，获得它在法律上：电子邮箱：advicesisters点网。我用我的评论提供了样本。学习中的“阿注更多关于补偿”一节中，如果你喜欢这个博客我的作品是什么美容，化妆品和时装评论专栏：http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html，同意通过电子邮件或在读者（见选项右侧栏）

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Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. Tous droits réservés. Les Sœurs Advice est une marque déposée des États-Unis. Aucun contenu mai être utilisés ou copiés avec écrit permission.If vous voulez utiliser mon travail, s'il vous plaît obtenez-le en toute légalité: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net. J'utilise fourni des échantillons pour mes commentaires. En savoir plus dans la "Note sur la rémunération" section de mon What Works beauté, Cosmétiques & Fashion Column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html Si vous aimez ce blog, vous y abonner par email ou dans une lecteur (voir colonne de droite pour les options)

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Bobbi Brown's Cabana Corals Collection Spring 2010

Coral is a beautiful, warm color. As a person with freckles and red hair and warm skin, coral is one of my most flattering colors. But for some, coral looks too bright, too orange, too "warm" to wear without looking gaudy.





Bobbi Brown has just created a collection called "Cabana Corals" for Spring 2010 that lets everyone wear coral. She has re-imagined them with modern formulas and modern tones that range from pink-ish coral, to nude coral, to true coral (so there's at least one you'll love).





I got a chance to try a few of the products from this collection, which includes:





Two new Shimmer Bricks featuring five stripes of super-perle pigments to wear separately on cheeks, eyes and even dotted on lips, or swiped together for one glowing shade. shades The new shades are: Pink Quartz and Nectar, $38.00 each





For cheeks, there's a new Pot Rouge called California Coral that you can dab on lips as well as on your cheeks, for a pretty, multi-tasking product, $22.00





For lips, Bobbi Brown introduces three semi-opaque, Metallic Lip Colors: Coral Reef; Coral Glaze – Limited Edition and Calypso Glaze, $22.00





... two moistly-matte, full coverage, Classic Lipsticks: Cape Coral – Limited Edition and Guava, $22.00





.... and three Shimmer Lip Glosses : Sunset Beach – Limited Edition, Coral Sand, and
Golden Nectar, $20.00





I tried "Coral Reef," a metallic lip color that has moisturizing, high-shine, and light-reflective pearls, in a medium coverage lip product. The color is pink with a nod to coral, so cool toned complexions still can wear it, easily. It's not a heavy metallic like the ones from Winter. This one is shimmery, and elegant, but light enough for daytime wear even when the weather warms up.





I also got a chance to test of the "Coral Sand" Shimmer Lip Gloss. These glosses not only look good for a casual day, you can wear them layered over other lip colors for more shine and dimension. Even better, they have aloe extract to soothe, Vitamins C and E for anti-oxidant protection, and jojoba and avocado oils to keep your lips soft, even when the air is dry.






Coral was seen all over the Fall 2010 runways, too. It is a nice change from red and pink, and if you get it now, you'll be way ahead of the curve, come Fall. Coral looks great with a tan, and warms up even sallow skin. Way to go, Bobbi!

Visit your favorite Bobbi Brown Makeup Counter, or visit the Bobbi Brown Web Site

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters
or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Bobble Your Water. Help Save Money & the Planet

These days, even the health conscious are wondering what expenses they can cut. But for many, pure, bottled water is a necessity, not a luxury. If you drink a lot of bottled water, or like to carry bottled water with you when you're "out and about," it can cost you quite a bundle.

Enter the Bobble bottle. The lightweight, clear plastic, colorful topped bottle is not any old bottle. This one has it's own filtration system that filters water as you drink. The Bobble bottle will filter the equivalent of at least 300 water bottles, with a carbon filter that is a proven, powerful chemical absorbent. As water passes over the filter, the negative ions of contaminants are drawn to the carbon granules, where they remain. The filtered water has a cleaner, crisper taste and meets or exceeds NSF International Standard 42, the standard that governs public and private drinking water. To make things more fun, the filter top comes in six different colors ( photo above) so everyone in the family can have their own.

Instead of paying for individual bottles of Spring water, you can use water from the tap, as the filter is designed to remove chlorine and organic contaminants from municipal tap water. The result is clean, budget minded, portable water that not only tastes good, it is good for you, and the planet. And a Bobble bottle costs just $9.95!

According to the press literature I read, Americans spend over $15 billion every year to satisfy their thirst for bottled water. But most plastic bottles are discarded, ending up in landfills, in oceans and on sidewalks. Bobble is re-useable, so less plastic ends up in being trashed, and less plastic needs to be created. In fact, the Bobble bottle is made from recycled plastic and is free of BPA, Phthalates and PVC.

There seems to be absolutely no downside to the Bobble. Fill it before you leave home, and re-fill it the next time you are near a sink, saving the need to buy bottled water on the run when you're thirsty. It's also the perfect travel companion in the airport these days (bring it empty through security, then fill it with drinking fountain water, and the impurities will be filtered out).

The only thing that I didn't like (and this is true of all water bottles with filtration during the first few uses) is that initially, it takes a while to get the water through the carbon filter. At first use, you need to fill the Bobble with water and squeeze it through one time; this gets rid of any loose carbon. But you'll have to work a little harder to get the water through the filter than a bottle without a filter. However, the longer you Bobble, the easier it is to get the water through the filter and into your mouth. The filter should be replaced every two months or after filtering approximately 40 gallons, or 150 liters, of water.

This is a great gift idea (mother's day and father's day is coming up and a Bobble makes an unusual gift. It's also a fun way to get the rest of your family to drink more water. Little things like this can make a big difference in your health and well being. I love Bobble!

Bobble launched March 1st, in multiple retail outlets, including Bed Bath & Beyond, JC Penney, Barnes & Noble, Wegmans, and Whole Foods. There will be other outlets in the months ahead, but you can also purchase it online, on the Bobble Web Site..

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters
or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

HerCut Has HairCare Just Right for You

Recently, I had a chance to try a trio of hair care & styling products that made me really think about my hair in an entirely different way. HerCut is the first hair care collection developed to help you keep your hair cut looking the way it was meant to be, from the first day at the salon, to the next time you're ready to get it cut again.

Kyan Douglas, Photo by Alison Blackman

Brand Ambassador and Emmy Award-winner Kyan Douglas met with me and some other beauty editors to explain how the products work, and why they're different. Kyan told us that hair stylists learn five basic, essential hair styles during their training: : the bob, the pixi, long layers, the blunt cut, and the shag. “No matter what your hair type, your stylist uses the same techniques to create your signature style. Maintaining that look is about using products tailored to the cut, not the hair itself. For the first time, HerCut offers products that bring out the best in every cut, giving you flawless style long after you leave the salon," explained Kyan.

What makes HerCut different is that there are five different (heat activated) “catalysts” that work on a molecular level to help your hair behave as it was meant to, conformimng to the cut. The catalysts are customized to meet the specific needs of every cut (i.e., weighted, forward motion for bobs and controlled separation for shags) to maximize every style regardless of hair type.Each of the five fundamental styles has its own customized heat-activated catalyst that promotes the right behavior for the corresponding cut. Here's a basic breakdown:

THE BOB: This is an angular style that has forward-flowing, clean geometric lines that help to delicately define the shape of the face. The Bob Catalyst utilizes patent-pending Tumbling Polymer Technology to anchor the ends of the cut, weighting hair to encourage forward momentum and showcasing the clean, precise exterior of the bob.

THE PIXIE: This is the most versatile cut, according to Kayan, because you can wear it spiked, smooth, or touseled. The Pixie Catalyst utilizes patent-pending D3 Polymer Technology to create a strong yet flexible mesh that loosely connects hair, providing versatile hold that allows you to shape, contour and texture with total control. Although there is no "HisCut yet, guys are most likely to use The Pixie catalyst for their hair right now.

THE SHAG: The shag is a heavily layered cut with multi-dimensional texture and playful movement. The Shag Catalyst utilizes patent-pending Ionicon Polymer Technology that creates separation and weight dispersion through negatively charged macromolecules that repel each other and create controlled separation. It sounds technical, but the results can be remarkable!

THE BLUNT CUT: Like the bob, this is a precision cut is typified by an even, unified length from root to end. You've got to get it right if you want those beautiful, clean lines and blunt edges that give the blunt cut a sleek silhouette. Blunt Catalyst employs patent-pending Compress-Ion Polymer Technology to form a crystal-clear matrix around each hair fiber and compress it, while forming bridges between hair fibers to ensure that they move in unison and always appear freshly cut.

LONG LAYERS: This is such a popular cut, but it can be tricky to maintain at home. In order to help the layers stay connected with falling flat, and creating body at the crown, a girl needs a little help! It arrrives in the form of the Long Layers Catalyst, utilizing patent-pending Spring Polymer Technology that creates flexible connections between layers via coil shaped molecules, fostering delicately bouncy hair that moves together.

To maximize the effects of the catalysts in catering to each fundamental style, HerCut also has a collection of sulfate- and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners. They are:

Shampoos:

Normal-Oily Shampoo: Designed for straight to wavy cuts, this daily shampoo maximizes true color vibrancy while strengthening the roots to support the weight of the cut and maintain its intended cut.

Normal-Dry Shampoo: Developed to make all cuts look their best with use every other day, this shampoo protects color while supporting the shape of every cut.

Dry Hair Shampoo: Designed for twice-a-week use, this shampoo for all cuts nourishes and protects color to bring out the best in every cut.

Conditioners:

Light Conditioner: Developed for fine hair and/or single-processed hair, this color-protecting conditioner weightlessly improves fiber elasticity to support every haircut shape, absorbing immediately and rinsing without leaving residue.

Medium Conditioner: Developed for medium hair texture that’s single processed and medium hair textures with highlights or lowlights, this nourishing, smoothing conditioner infuses hair with healthy moisture, absorbing instantly and protecting color.

Deep Conditioner: Developed for coarse, damaged or chemically treated hair, this deep conditioner instantly softens, smoothes and repairs, weightlessly improving elasticity and absorbing instantly to protect color and support hair shape.

This is a personalized line of products, but it's not too difficult to know what kind of cut you have, and what kind of shampoo and conditioner suits your hair. They are also safe for colored hair (thank heavens)! I tried the Normal to Oily Shampoo and Deep Conditioner, since my hair is dry on the ends, oily at the roots. The Shampoo was lovely, with lots of lather and a clean rinse. The conditioner felt rich and thick on my hair, leaving it silky when I rinsed it out.

But the real magic is in the catalysts. Instead of my usual heat styling products, I used the herCut Long Layers catalyst. After a few pushes of the dual-chambered pump bottle, I got a little bit of both parts of the catalyst, warmed them together in the palms of my hands, and then smoothed the mixture on my hair from ends to roots (usually it's from roots to ends, but this product is the other way around). You are supposed to comb the product through for best results. Then, I simply styled my hair as usual. But, as luck would have it, I realized that I was late for an event, and in order to get there on time I'd have to rush my usual, more careful blow-out. I figured my hair would look horrible, but to my surprise, it looked good. I didn't even really need to finish the style with a flat iron as I'd normally do. Three days later, my hair looks almost perfect and there is still "lift" at the roots. That's pretty amazing!

I was still dubious. So I did an experiment. I asked the PR company to send me a different catalyst, this time, the one for blunt cut hair, just to see if it would make a difference. I used the HerCut shampoo and conditioner as before. My hair looked ok, but not as swing-y and smooth as when I used the long layers catalyst. So I tried the long layers catalyst without the shampoo and conditioner. My hair wasn't as soft and shiny, but it still looked great. I learned that the right catalyst makes all the difference, and a good shampoo and conditioner is always a wonderful thing.

The down side, if you consider it as such, is that this new technology doesn't come at a bargain price. The catalysts are $28.00 each, and the 10 fl. oz. plastic flip-top bottles of the Shampoos and Conditioners, are $22.00 each. But when you figure how much you've invested in a great cut, or if you generally have to have a pro handle your blow-outs, you may decide that doing it yourself with HerCut is well, well worth the investment. You may also find that you have to wash and style your hair a little bit less frequently...and that is priceless!

WHERE TO FIND IT: These products are available now at Sephora stores nationwide, sephora.com and on QVC. For more information be sure to visit the HerCut Web Site.

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html
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版权所有©艾莉森布莱克曼邓纳姆。保留所有权利。姐妹的意见是注册美国商标。没有内容可以使用或复制的书面permission.If您要使用我的工作，请，在- advicesisters，获得它在法律上：电子邮箱：advicesisters点网。我用我的评论提供了样本。学习中的“阿注更多关于补偿”一节中，如果你喜欢这个博客我的作品是什么美容，化妆品和时装评论专栏：http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html，同意通过电子邮件或在读者（见选项右侧栏）

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. Todos los derechos reservados. Las Hermanas de Asesoramiento es una marca registrada Estados Unidos. Ningún contenido puede ser usado o copiado con el escrito permission.If desea utilizar mi trabajo, por favor obtener legalmente: Email: advicesisters-en-advicesisters-punto-net. Yo uso siempre muestras para mis comentarios. Obtenga más información en la nota "Una acerca de la compensación" de mi lo que funciona Belleza, Cosméticos y columna de opinión de moda: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html Si te gusta este blog, suscribirse a él por correo electrónico o en un lector (véase la columna de la derecha para las opciones)

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Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. Tous droits réservés. Les Sœurs Advice est une marque déposée des États-Unis. Aucun contenu mai être utilisés ou copiés avec écrit permission.If vous voulez utiliser mon travail, s'il vous plaît obtenez-le en toute légalité: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net. J'utilise fourni des échantillons pour mes commentaires. En savoir plus dans la "Note sur la rémunération" section de mon What Works beauté, Cosmétiques & Fashion Column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html Si vous aimez ce blog, vous y abonner par email ou dans une lecteur (voir colonne de droite pour les options)

حقوق النشر محفوظة © أليسون بلاكمان دنهام. جميع الحقوق محفوظة. راهبات مشورة هي علامة تجارية مسجلة للولايات المتحدة. قد لا يكون مضمون استخدام أو نسخ خطية مع permission.If كنت تريد استخدام عملي ، يرجى الحصول عليها من الناحية القانونية : البريد الإلكتروني : advicesisters المعرضات للadvicesisters - دوت صافي. أنا استخدم قدمت عينات لمشاركاتي. تعلم المزيد في "ملاحظة حول التعويضات" مقطع من بلدي ما يعمل الجمال ومستحضرات التجميل موضة واستعراض العمود : http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html إذا كنت مثل هذا بلوق ، والاشتراك بها عن طريق البريد الإلكتروني أو في القارئ (انظر العمود الأيمن لخيارات)

New and Definitely Nifty: Colgate® Pro Clinical Toothpaste

Not long ago I attended a launch for a trio of new toothpastes from Colgate called Colgate® Pro Clinical Toothpaste. The public relations people were there, but they also brought along three experts who worked on the products. What was really great about this is that they were able to really answer my questions in technical detail as well as explain how these products are different.

So, What Makes Colgate® Pro Clinical Toothpastes, different?

For starters, they are for an audience that is often ignored when it comes to specific beauty needs: the over-40 woman. She's a consumer who very much cares about health and beauty, and she will spend a little more to get products that help her not just combat the signs of aging on her face or hair, but also on her body, and her teeth.

When Colgate was thinking about the development of toothpaste that would be directed to this audience, they actually went to dentists, and asked: "what do you hear from your patients about their dental concerns? What are they saying?"

Based on that, Colgate® scientists began to create this new line of toothpastes that are specially designed to meet the diverse needs of these health and beauty seekers. The end result of all their work are three toothpastes that utilize ingredients to provide consumers with targeted benefits — such as removing surface
stains, polishing teeth, and fortifying enamel. The products they created are good for daily use. you can choose the one that targets the issue of most concern to you: Daily Whitening, Daily Cleaning or Daily Renewal for Enamel, but you can also use more than one in a rotation.

What's in the tubes? The soft-sided tubes stand on their caps, which are also the way to open the tube (keeping the ingredients fresh). Each of the products have specific ingredients and functions. We learned that due to the chemistry of the various ingredients, they couldn't put all of the attributes into one single product.

Colgate® PROCLINICAL™ removes surface stains. This Daily Whitening contains ProLuminex™ crystals — Colgate's® highest level of high-performance whitening silica that is clinically proven to whiten teeth by removing surface stains and help keep them off. We were shown a chart showing the improvement the test subjects saw from the ingredients in the Daily Whitening formula after just three weeks, and even more significantly, in six weeks.

Colgate® PROCLINICAL™ Daily Renewal for Enamel helps to protect the enamel of your teeth, which can get weaker (or have small dents or fissures) as you age or if just from grinding teeth or daily wear. It contains a ProMinerals™ complex, comprised of
1,500 ppm of fluoride, the highest level of fluoride available in a daily toothpaste without a prescription. While this product can't undo damage, it can help to fortify enamel, and helps protect your teeth from food acids.

The final product, Colgate® PROCLINICAL™ Daily Cleaning, isn't quite reaady for the shelves yet, but we got a sneak peek at this one, too. It is designed to give your teeth that "smooth & clean" feeling you have when your dentist has just cleaned your teeth. This toothpaste contains Prophy Silica™ micro-buffers — an ingredient similar to what dentists use when they're polishing your teeth. While it is a gentle abrasive, it also has stain fighting technology, too.


If this sounds good to you (and it certainly sounded pretty cool to me), the good news is that the first two products are already available at mass retailers , grocery and drug stores nationwide and in some online outlets as well. The PROCLINICAL™ toothpastes have have a suggested retail price of $3.99 (Mass) and $4.49 (Food/Drug).


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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Is It True What You Read in the Tabloids? Tabloid Beauty by M.A.C. Cosmetics

It is true what you read in the tabloids? There's always a little grain of truth. But there's more than just a grain in the new, M·A·C Cosmetics Tabloid Beauty collection! Anyone can make a claim, but not everyone can back it up. These products are a collection of M·A·C faves, each with claims that the company has clinically tested and proven. And each claim is displayed proudly on each package. These are high performance products that are "must-haves" for your makeup bag. Here's a quick rundown on this collection:









PRO LONGWEAR LIPCOLOUR - A dual-ended wand with opaque lip color on one end, shimmery clear gloss that shines and hydrates on the other. Non-transfer fixed, with no feathering for a full 8 hour day. Bet you can't choose just one!
Suggested Retail Price $21.00 U.S./$25.00 CDN



clingpeach - Shimmering peach
commitment - Rich reddened-brown
durashell - Soft pink with gold pearl
For Keeps Rose-plum with iridescence
lasting lust - Smouldering red
loyal - Warm beige-brown
Passion- Preserved Subdued brick red
Perennial Rose Dusty pink with gold pearl
Stuck on You Berry-red with gold pearl
Unchanging - Soft, neutral lilac-pink

PRO LONGWEAR LUSTRE LIPCOLOUR - bascially the same deal as the one above, but with a sexy, clear, shimmery top coat
Suggested Retail Price $21.00 U.S./$25.00 CDN


Jazz-Y-razz - Dirty plum with pearl
Lishious - Soft peach with gold pearl
Night rose - Rich plum with gold pearl
Boss Brown - Chocolate bronze with pearl
Betwixt - Rich copper-red with pearl
Sappho - Fine wine



PLUSH LASH MASCARA - 12% increase in fullness, 125% increase in curl!
Suggested retail Price $13.00 U.S./$15.50 CDN
M.A.C. makes great mascaras. This one has a large brush and a formula that offers an 112% increase in fullness, 125% increase in curl!
Plushblack --true black , Brownette - chocolate brown


PENULTIMATE EYE LINER - Extremely long-wearing – 12 hours! This liner lasts like a magic marker--until you take it off. Get True Black
Suggested retail Price $16.50 U.S./$20.00 CDN


PREP + PRIME LINE FILLER - Improves firmness, visible lifting, visibly diminishes lines in eight weeks! I didn't try it for eight weeks, but it did make my foundation look even smoother.
Suggested retail Price $19.50 U.S./$23.50 CDN


PREP + PRIME SKIN REFINED ZONE - Immediately reduces the appearance of visible pores over time, reduces clogged pores by 25%, shrinking the appearance of pore size by almost two-thirds! 26% improvement in smoothness and skintone, 24% reduction in sebum, 32% reduction in the appearance of pore size! This is an excellent product that keeps skin matte--I saw it used backstage more than once during Fashion Week.
Suggested retail Price $19.50 U.S./$23.50 CDN

I love the outer packaging: bright colors with "Tabloid" lettering.You don't have to wait to get these- they're in M.A.C.'s permanent collection (yay!) and available now at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 - http://www.maccosmetics.com/

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

New Today- Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Column for Spring 2010

It was definitely Winter outside, while I was writing most of the reviews in the BRAND NEW, ADVICE SISTERS WHAT WORKS BEAUTY, COSMETICS & FASHION REVIEW COLUMN: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html But recently, I saw the green tips of crocuses coming up, even as the snow fell on them. It reminded me that Spring is almost here. This early Spring (March/April) What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column gives you an idea of the colors and trends you'll find right now, or very soon, in all your favorite stores. When the seasons change, it gives you a new opportunity to refresh you mind, spirit, and body.

Some of these reviews have links to a larger review (many with photos and videos) that appeared first on the Advice Sisters Blog http://www.advicesisters.net/advicesistersblog.html .

Please share your favorites on Twitter and other social networking media. You can find me on Twitter @advicesisters and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman

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Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied with written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally: Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Subscribe to this blog by email or in a feed reader (See the right hand column of this blog). Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/advicesisters or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/alisonblackman
I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column: http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html

Love Me Compacts and Love Potion Present Great Gift Opportunities

Back at holiday time in 2008, The Advice Sisters reviewed a unique product called Poo-Pourri that eliminated odors in the toilet not by spraying the air, but by deodorizing the water in the toilet bowl before you "do your business." The odor neutralizer in Poo Pourri dissolves smells, so the next person using the toilet won't be experience what you left behind (bad pun intended).


Now Suzy Batiz of Poo-Pourri fame has come up with a sister company that creates scents in an entirely different frame of reference: Love Me Compacts. These are lovely, solid perfume scents that you wear on your body. They are presented in beautifully illustrated, slim, cardboard compacts. Inside each compact are three round pots of solid scent to use individually, or in combinations to create your very own signature fragrance. The idea of combining fragrances isn't new, but it's the first time I've seen the concept taken to a portable level with three scents packaged together. All of the fragrances are unique, and there are four different compacts (so 12 scents in all) representing the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water. Each compact is $24.95. What's great about these is that they're so lightweight, and pretty to look at, and of course, solid scents are not going to leak or spill in your purse or luggage. What makes these compacts more unusual is that they're not the usual, commercial, fruity florals. There are a lot of white florals like jasmine and honeysuckle, and incense-y notes like patchouli, vanilla, and coconut. These are not to my personal liking, but they're plenty popular. And, once you rub just a tiny bit of any one of these into your skin, or layer them, they'll last a long while.

Love Me In the Garden features the "Earth scents" named: Earth, Whisper & Sweetness. What they’re made of is night blooming jasmine, spicy and woody notes of vanilla musk, and floral notes of honeysuckle, jasmine and clean, fresh-cut grass. Together, they have the smell of a head shop in the 1960's, but when you rub them into your skin they take on a creamy sweetness of a bride’s bouquet.

Love Me in the Rain is a compact featuring a large lotus flower in the middle, flowing onto either side. These are "Water scents" named: Inspiration, Rain & Fun. The three actual fragrances have notes of blue lotus, rich tuberose, fresh rain, earthy patchouli, and sweet honey, plus candy, citrus and caramelized vanillas. Patchouli on it's own is not so pleasing, but blended with these other notes, it makes a smoky, incense-y blend that is sexy and empowering.

Love me On A Hot Tin Roof contains the "Fire Scents" named: Wild, Radiant & Sun. The actual notes including tropical blends of ginger, lavendaceous pikake, sage, splashes of mandarin, lemon, grapefruit, and minty vanilla, and amber notes. This trio is much fruitier than the other three, and I think I like this one the best because it's an all-season for all reasons, grouping of scents.

Love Me Under the Stars contains "Air Scents" named: Midnight, Coconut Moon & Laughter. If These are notes of ginger, melon, citrus, coconut, amber, woody, white musks, and warm floral sandalwoods with red rose, violet and freesia. It smells like a spicy fruit cocktail!

All of the compacts use beautiful, jewel-toned illustrations with gold accents that remind me of the illustrated fairy tale books I loved as a child. Inside, there's a little booklet telling you how to use the scents. Any or all of these would make a lovely gift perfect (Mother's Day is coming) or great gifts for your bridal party. And for yourself, of course.

But for those who are fans of tote-able rollerballs, (and I’m definitely in that category, too), there is Love, Me....Potion $16.95. This pretty roller ball with gorgeously decorated hard-sided cardboard packaging tube, is a perfume oil inspired by Pusanga, the famed love potion of the Amazon (Pusanga is made from flowers and plants renowned to attract to the people who wear it, things they really want). Inside each tube is a glass roller ball bottle, containing a 1/3 oz. fragrance with notes of rose, floral, amber, and sandalwood, blended into 100% jojoba oil. The packaging also includes a "secret" parchment scroll that describes the inspiration for the love potion, as well as a description of what what the magic of a love potion, is.

The scent is very significant (think: strong) and the key note is a pretty rose. If you love romantic, rose scents, this is definitely the one for you! I think it would be a lovely gift for Mother's Day or for a bridal shower. I dabbed one fingertip on the top of the rollerball--and the scent remained strong for hours. Just use a little, so you don't blow everyone away with the scent! Your "magic" should be subtle! The product uses a 100% natural base including beeswax and shea butter. There are no coloring agents, no parabens, no alcohol, no preservatives.

Visit the Love Me Scents Web Site for more information, and to order

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