Friday, November 30, 2007

Iny, Miny, Miney...Forest


My first kiss of the week belonged to Dylan. But by Monday, I had my lips all over Chris. On Tuesday, I let Tyler steal a smooch before meeting up with Johnny for some serious lip action. Thursday was pretty busy, as I puckered up with Eric and David – at the same time! Today, I’m all about Forest, who gave me some sugar on my way to work.

Before your imagination starts running wild – allow me to explain. This post is a kiss and tell, but it’s not what you’re thinking. I am still very happily married, but my lips are having a love affair with Kissable Couture, a new lip gloss collection created by Keisha Nash-Whitaker and celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson (whose clients include Fergie, Keyshia Cole, Christina Milian, Missy Elliot, and Alec Wek).

The fall collection, titled First Kiss, is comprised of seven shades; my favorite is Forest, a beautiful bordeaux, named after Keisha’s husband (the amazingly talented writer/director/and Academy Award-winning actor – yes, that Forest).

In the tube, some may find the ombre hues a bit daunting. But be not afraid - each gloss dresses lips in sumptuous color that is surprisingly wearable.

Kissable Couture is a must-have addition to every woman’s winter (makeup) wardrobe. And for only $22, everyone can afford to wear couture!

To dress your lips in luxury, visit kissablecouture.com.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Extra, Extra


Mrs. Jordan Bratman strikes a pose on the cover of January’s Glamour UK. The Xtina-filled issue hits newsstands on December 17.

Oh, yeah…and I think she might be pregnant.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Buyer Beware

After reading that FragranceX.com sells discount skin care, body products, and cosmetics – in addition to fragrances – at up to 80% off, I couldn’t wait to log on and fill up my online shopping cart. So imagine my surprise when I found that not only are the discount claims highly exaggerated, but in many cases, their prices are higher than the retail value. Case in point:

Product: Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup
Retail Price: $22.50
Fragrance X Price: $30 (and they have the nerve to say that you’re saving 17%)


Product: MAC Clear Lip Glass
Retail Price: $13.50
Fragrance X Price: $17 (they say you’re saving 26%)

Product: Frederic Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo
Retail Price: $19.50
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (they claim this is a savings of 18%)


Product: Philosophy Strawberry Milkshake Ultra-Rich Shampoo, Bath, & Shower Gel
Retail Price: $16
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (you’re supposedly saving 21%)

Don’t get me wrong – there are many products on FragranceX.com that will actually save you a couple of dollars. But can you really trust an online merchant that would so blatantly jack up prices, making you believe that you’re getting a deal?

The bottom line is that if you choose to purchase from FragranceX.com, or similar discount websites, take precautions. All it takes is a few extra minutes to check prices and make sure that it’s you, and not them, who is making out like a bandit.

Can You Solve The Mystery?


In advance of the launch of a new hair care product, a leading company is allowing Americans to try the shampoo/conditioner system for free and to guess the brand of the mystery sample. If your great hair days are few and far between, the answer to beautiful, healthy hair may be just a click away. This unique hair care system’s true identity will be revealed on December 17 on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

For a free sample of the mystery product, more information, video testimonials, and a chance to win a free vacation at a luxury resort in Arizona, log on to HairMystery.com.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Philadelphia Phocus: Erik Robinson

Friends and strangers often compliment me on my hair, especially on the rare occasions when I sport something other than my trademark ponytail. But to be fair, the condition of my hair has less to do with the products I keep in my bathroom, and more to do with the company I have kept for the past thirteen years.

Erik Robinson is my mane man; that's him (to the left, with his wife) at my wedding reception. He is the only person I would even let think about touching my hair. And for good reason – he’s been in the business for 20 years, he holds a state examiner’s license (which means he tests other who are seeking their cosmetology, esthetician, and managers license), and he knows hair.

Usually, when I’m in Erik’s chair, we gab about pop culture and the latest antics of my crazy family (Erik is also my mom and sister’s hairstylist, and my dad’s barber). But when I stopped in a few weeks ago, Erik and I talked (beauty) shop – and he had some tips for touchable tresses that I’m excited to share with all of you.

Erik says that it’s normal to lose 50-100 strands of hair per day. So if you notice a clump of hair in the shower drain – don’t break out the Propecia just yet. “Typically, your hair will tell you what’s wrong. The key is learning how to interpret the signs,” he said.

“Women are going flat-iron crazy right now, and they wonder why they’ve got broken tips and split ends. When you regularly use thermal styling tools, you need to coat hair with a light oil or serum to protect it from the damaging effects of heat,” Erik explained. One of my personal favorites is Fantasia Heat Protector Straightening Serum. It moisturizes, repairs, and smooths the cuticle – leaving hair shiny and frizz-free. It’s brilliant for preventing breakage, and at less than $8, it won’t break the bank.

When you start noticing half-stands on your pillowcase or collar, over-processing is usually the culprit. “Overlapping chemical processes, such as relaxers, perms, and permanent color, can take a toll hair – especially if hair isn’t strong to begin with.” So if you insist on altering the chemical structure of hair and its hue, you might want to consider a more gentle hair color (one without ammonia or peroxide). Look for products with the words “temporary” or “semi-permanent” – fortunately, there are plenty of great products out there, at every price point. And when in doubt, go to a salon; it beats wrecking your hair and having to see a professional anyway to repair the damage.

Finally, Erik warned that “losing whole strands is an indication that a person requires a major change in lifestyle. Diet, stress, hormones, and medication could be factors when your hair falls out at the root.” In such a case, a trip to the doctor is often necessary to get to the root of the problem (no pun intended).

At the end of our pow-wow, my final question to Erik was this: if he had to narrow it down to just one thing, what would he say is the secret to beautiful hair? “Beautiful hair is healthy hair,” he stated simply. “And the key to healthy hair is maintaining a stable pH level, which ranges between 4.5 and 5.5. Keeping hair in this range involves using balance of moisturizing and protein products.” So, in laymans terms - if you’re only using products that hydrate, you’re not adding enough strength to strands; conversely, if you go overboard with protein products, hair becomes so strong that it can literally snap. Try following a moisturizing shampoo, like Technician Shampoo For Dry, Damaged, Color-Treated Hair, with a protein treatment like Protein Rx Reparative Treatment Mask – both by Frederic Fekkai.

Erik Robinson’s wealth of hair knowledge is inspiring; if I wrote half of what he told me, we’d be here all day. But what is even more remarkable is his innate, creative talent. Erik is the best hairdresser I’ve ever had, and he’s also one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. So if you live in - or are passing through - the Philadelphia area, I highly recommend that you make an appointment. Erik is skilled in women’s and men’s hairstyling, hair cutting, and hair coloring – and if you mention Spoiled Pretty, he’ll knock 30% off all services over $20*!

Erik Robinson
Salon DuBose
107 South 22nd Street (between Chestnut and Sansom)
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215.564.5340

*For Erik’s price list, contact me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com.

I'm "It"


I’ve been tagged by Diva In A Carry On. Now that I’m “it,” I have to write 7 random facts about myself, then tag 7 other bloggers. So without further pomp and circumstance, here’s a lil’ sumthin’ sumthin’ you probably didn’t know about your resident beauty know-it-all:

1) Besides Philly, my favorite city is Madrid, Spain. I had my purse stolen there, but who can hold a grudge against a place with such fantastic shopping, architecture, food, and culture? Sometimes, during an especially tiring day, I take a mental siesta and imagine that I’m at a tapas bar eating gambas al ajillo and red wine sangria.

2) My favorite television show is Project Runway (I’ve seen every episode at least 10 times). My favorite movie? It’s a tie between The Sound of Music and Pulp Fiction…yes, I know I’m weird.

3) I memorized the Hail Mary, in French, when I was in the first grade – and I can still recite it to this day.

4) My dream job would be to perform on Broadway. In undergrad, I majored in Communications and Theater – and I wrote my senior thesis on the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Rent.

5) My favorite musicians are Jeff Buckley and Otis Redding.

6) Although I work in marketing and public relations, I attended law school – where I met my husband, on the first day of orientation.

7) My favorite word is facetious (did you know that facetiously is one of only two English words with all five vowels and the semivowel y in alphabetical order?)

I’ve tagged the following blogs; check them out and learn a little more about the divas behind some of your fav daily diaries.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic
Yummy 411
Beauty Banter
Makeup Loves Me
Southern Sugar
Miss M Does Fashion
Hot and Cheap

Monday, November 26, 2007

Bling Blang

Got some extra room in your $18,000 Goyard/Lancome train case? Good news – La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream now comes in a refillable jar, be-dazzled with 2,400 handset Swarovski crystals. This dramatic firming treatment provides skin with vital nutrients, including a Caviar Firming Complex to hydrate, nourish and pamper skin. Only 610 pieces were produced worldwide – and one of those babies can be yours for the low, low price of $2,000.

Got some more disposable income – like $62,000 worth? Earlier this month, Guerlain introduced KissKiss Gold and Diamonds, a lipstick custom-designed in France, adorned with 18-carat yellow gold and paved with 199 diamonds, weighing in at 2.2 carats. Housed in a black lacquered wooden case, KissKiss Gold and Diamonds is refillable and accompanied by its own lip brush and protective black suede pouch. The gold encasing can be customized with a name or message engraving and the lipstick is available in 15 customizable shades hand selected by Guerlain’s Artistic Director, Olivier Echaudemaison.

If you're thinking that $62,000 is a bit steep, but $56,808 is more up your alley, The New York Post has a great idea for pinching some pennies - have the store ship it to you for a $12.75 fee, and save $5,192.50 in sales tax. What a steal!

The KissKiss Gold and Diamonds lipstick is available at Guerlain Boutiques at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus San Francisco, The Breakers West Palm Beach and Epcot through private appointment only.

Breakup Makeup

When we get our hearts broken, emotions run the gamut. We heal ourselves through tears, fill our iPods with sad love songs, and use Häagen-Dazs as an analgesic. But when things are going bad, sometimes the best revenge is looking good.


Newly single gals can paint the town (and their nails) red with Orly’s Divorcée 6-Pix. The collection includes 50/50, Pawn the Ring, It's Not Me, It's You, One Night Stand, See Yah, and Take Him To The Cleaners.


Got a friend going through a breakup? Buy her Hard Candy's Mix Tape in Breakup Mix. It takes a lot less effort than making a real one, and she’ll look cute to boot. The palette feature three eye shadows and three lip glosses, so you can create a mix of color to match your mood. All the shades are made to coordinate, so it’s impossible to come up with a bad combination.


Benefit’s dear john lustrous facial cream is like a 'moisture magnet' for your skin. Use day or night to moisturize and put lustre back into your complexion. Voted "best face cream" by Elle magazine in 2006.


MakeUp-BreakUp Cool Cleansing Oil from Boscia is a miraculously different and extremely gentle way to deep cleanse, by breaking up all makeup, dissolving impurities and refreshing congested skin without leaving an oily residue.

Give The Gift Of Spa


Do you know someone who deserves to be pampered, and would just be overjoyed by the idea of going to a spa? SpaFinder Gift Certificates make the ideal gifts for anyone.

Accepted at more than 4,000 spas worldwide, SpaFinder Gift Certificates can be used by the people on your list for everything from massages to manicures, and pedicures to products…and much, much more. SpaFinder GiftCertificates range from $50 to $1000, in increments of $25 to fit every budget.

If only all holiday shopping could be this easy!

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Beauty-licious Giveaway Sponsored By Jaqua

Spoiled Pretty and our friends at Jaqua Beauty have teamed up to bring you a giftastic giveaway! If you’re unfamiliar with Jaqua, this contest is the perfect introduction to this brand.

One winner will receive a Guilt Free Treats kit, the ultimate Jaqua experience – with three great treats formulated to enrich your skin and your senses. These products are for all those times you can resist the cake, but not the frosting. This kit lets you indulge without a single calorie! Guilt Free Body Treats contain: Shower Crème, Hand Crème, and Body Butter. The winner will have choice of Buttercream Frosting or Cocoa Buttercream Frosting scents. ($30 value)

One runner up will win a Pink Palace Trio kit– filled with all things feminine and indulgent. Step inside the Pink Palace and let the magic put a spell on you! Runner up will have choice of Shower Crème Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne) or Body Butter Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne). ($24 value)

All entrants will receive a special coupon for 15% off your next purchase at Jaqua.com. Everybody wins - I love it! And I know you’ll love Jaqua, so enter today!

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment in the comments section below by 9 pm EST on Tuesday, December 4th - be sure to include your name and email address. Or email me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com if you're uncomfortable posting your email address below.

A winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, December 5th, I’ll announce the winners’ names (all entrants will receive an email with the coupon code for 15% off at Jaqua.com). Please, only one comment per person; duplicate comments will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents. Good luck!

Got Problem Skin? No Problem!


Worried that your makeup brushes may have something to do with your plugged-up pores? Sephora’s Deluxe Antibacterial Brush Set may offer a solution. This seven-piece, professional-quality brush set is treated with a non-toxic, hypoallergenic compound that attacks and destroys harmful bacteria. The soft, synthetic fibers distribute just the right amount of pigment and the set comes packaged in a chic, silver, tri-fold brush case.

Set includes a foundation brush, concealer brush, powder brush, angled eye shadow brush, eye blender brush, lip/eyeliner brush, and a brow brush/lash comb.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Kathy Griffin Is Going Straight To Hell

By the looks of promos for Kathy Griffin’s new special, she took my advice and ditched the blunt bangs. Was I right, or was I right? Kathy looks great! The preview is pretty brief, so I can’t tell whether she’s had help from hair extensions, a great blowout, or Botox. Whichever it is, I could really care less. Good for her…it takes ten years off the Emmy-winning comedienne.

I love Kathy and have been a die-hard devotee for years (I mean, only a superfan could appreciate her hilarity on Celebrity Mole: Hawaii). I can’t wait to see what she has to say about the Hollywood hapless on her sixth stand-up original for Bravo.

Kathy Griffin: Straight To Hell” airs Thursday, November 29 at 9 PM ET/PT. Watch what happens.

Smells Just Like It Should


Sometimes the easiest way to spoil yourself is to light a fragrant candle. My favorites are from Yankee Candle, the largest U.S. manufacturer of scented candles. Renowned for its true-to-life scents, the candle-making giant offers a wide assortment of fragrances and colors; so it’s a breeze to find a candle to match your décor and disposition.

My everyday favorites include Vanilla Lime and Lemon Lavender. For a festive fragrance, it doesn’t get any better than Christmas Wreath – it’s perfect for getting into the ho-ho-holiday spirit!

For $10 off your next purchase of $25 or more, click here. To request a scratch-and-sniff catalogue, follow this link.

This Line Takes The Cupcake!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard about Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2007 list. Though Oprah made some fine choices, I have one recommendation for the media mogul.


If I had a list, I’d call it ‘The D-List’ (original, I know) - and everything on it would be from Jaqua’s Buttercream Frosting line of products. I’ve been using the Buttercream Frosting Exfoliating Body Polish, Shower Crème, and Hand Crème for a couple of weeks, and my enthusiasm has not waned. In fact, my fondness grows stronger every day. Not only do the Buttercream Frosting products pamper my parched skin, they smell like heaven - a sweet tooth’s version of heaven, anyway.


Like vanilla frosting with a hint of fresh strawberries, Jaqua's Buttercream Frosting products smell so much like the real thing, I have to remind myself that they're not edibile. I can only hope that Jaqua is developing hair care, shaving cream, toothpaste, antiperspirant, and contact lens solution…so that every square inch of me can smell saccharinely sweet.

Spoiled Pretty tip: while you’re on the Jaqua website, sign up to become a Jaqua VIP (no purchase necessary, and it’s free). Be the first to find out about new Jaqua products, special discounts and best of all, freebie offers only available to Jaqua VIP members.

Mamma Mia / Hot Mama


Christina Aguilera is no longer keeping her pregnancy on the DL. At recent events, the songstress has been proudly showing off her growing baby bump. Too bad she’s still keeping that maternity glow hidden under layers of theatrical makeup. Although Aguilera has made (baby) steps in the right direction by trading red lips for pretty pink ones, she has a ways to go. Is it wishful thinking that the onetime dirrty girl will fully come clean?


On the other end of the spectrum is Keri Russell, who is looking resplendent on the cover (and inside the pages) of Lucky Magazine’s November issue. 2007 was a good year for the actress - as she married her longtime love, gave birth to son River, and became the new face of Cover Girl. “I don’t spend a lot of time on my makeup, but throwing on black mascara and nude lipstick is enough to make me feel glamorous,” she says. Her low-maintenance makeup includes Lash Blast Mascara in Very Black and Tru Shine Lipcolor in Blushberry Shine - both by Cover Girl.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Shining Star For You To See...

For my birthday, my sister gave me a makeup bag chock-full of travel-sized Molton Brown goodies. Nothing of the bunch disappoints, but there are a few superstars.

Molton Brown's Shining Starbloom Haircondition & Detangle is a lightweight leave-in conditioner that brings vitality to lifeless hair, providing superior detangling. After washing and conditioning my hair, all I need is a few mists; it hydrates my dry stands, and my wide-toothed comb glides through like butta.

Shining star for you to see...what your hair can truly be!

Real Sponges Have Curves


Want an airbrushed makeup look, without the complicated airbrush part? Try Beautyblender, the ultimate makeup sponge applicator. Invented by Hollywood makeup artists, this sponge leaves you with a professional finish and a flawless complexion. Applying makeup with fingers or sharp-edged triangular sponges can waste makeup and can leave visible streaks.

Beautyblender’s egg shape makes application foolproof by allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas with ease. Its suede-like texture repels product, so your foundation/concealer/cream blush actually ends up on your face (rather than absorbed by the sponge). And its unique curves fit the contours of your face, leaving your makeup dazzling and undetectable.

Beautyblender is reusable (perfect for those green gals), latex-free, non-allergenic, and odor free...and makes a great holiday gift! Available online or at a retailer near you.


Thursday, November 22, 2007

Cornucopia of Cosmetics

Greetings from Spokane, Washington - where I am celebrating my first Thanksgiving away from home, with my hubby and in-laws. Thanksgiving is the ultimate celebration of family, friends, and food...and as a bonus, you get a day off from work, football is on TV three days early, and overindulgence is encouraged! Doesn't it seem unfair that it only lasts one day?

The following products simulate the scents of the season, and will have you giving thanks well into the new year.


Indulge your feet and your senses with The Body Shop's Cranberry Heatable Booties. To use, simply remove the cranberry-scented sachet and heat in the microwave for one minute.


Treat your lips to Philosophy's Kiss Me Lip Trio. There's a flavor for every kiss—Melting Chocolate Lip Shine for a decadent kiss, Cinnamon Buns Lip Shine for a sugary, sweet kiss, and Cranberry Lip Shine for a red, juicy kiss. Spread holiday cheer with these luscious high-gloss Lip Shines. Only at Sephora.


Korres Vanilla Cinnamon Moisturising Body Milk has an exceptionally light, powdery texture that goes on matte, and keeps you fresh and soft, all day.


The Pumpkin Classic Candle from Paddywax shows its bounty with scents of fresh carrot, spicy pumpkin and vanilla bean.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Ever Had That Not So Fresh Feeling?

If you've never had the pleasure of experiencing Fresh's luxury line of cosmetics, toiletries, and home goods - well, what are you waiting for? With the holiday season upon us, there's no better time to take that wonderous journey. While you're out and about, picking up a little something for everyone on your list - make sure to give yourself the gift of Fresh.

A recent addition to Fresh's skin care selection is the Sugar Acai Age-Delay Body Cream, an innovative moisturizer proven to improve firmness, tone, and smoothness after just 4 weeks. The formula taps into the skin-restoring properties of açaí, an antioxidant-rich “super berry” found deep in the Amazon rainforest. This cream not only is extremely hydrating, but also improves the overall appearance of the body. The addictive scent of bergamot, caramel, and exotic açaí fruit laced with undertones of white and green tea make Sugar Açaí Age-Delay Body Cream a true daily indulgence!

For any purchase made before December 4: simply enter HAPPY HOLIDAYS as your coupon code at checkout.

*Receive a complimentary travel-size Sugar Blossom Hand Treatment with a purchase of $125 or more.

*Receive a complimentary Fragrance Quartet ($75 value) with a purchase of $250 or more.

*Enjoy a complimentary Sugar Eau de Parfum sample with every purchase.

Oprah's Favorite Things 2007


Yesterday, America watched as Oprah unveiled her Favorite Things of 2007 list on an unsuspecting audience in Macon, Georgia. Three hundred golden ticket holders left the convention center pushing shopping carts filled with the (now) most coveted products in the country.

This year, Oprah took her show on the road because Macon consistently has the nation's highest percentage of viewers tuned into her talk show. Filming the "Favorite Things" episode in Macon was a thank-you to the fans, she explained. Audience members left the local convention hall pushing shopping carts toppled with loot – including camcorders, apparel, refrigerators with an LCD TV built into the door – and, of course, beauty products!

When the ‘Queen of All Media’ wants to spoil herself pretty, she reaches for…



Claus Porto Soaps From Lafco New York
These all-natural, bath-sized bars distributed by Lafco New York are a labor of love. They have been created by the Claus Porto's family-run factory in Portugal for the past 117 years. Each bar starts with top quality 100% vegetable soap base and pure, skin softening shea butter. Next, the finest fragrances from the South of France are mixed in so that the scent lasts until the very end of the bar. All of these ingredients are then milled seven times in the traditional European way for a hard, dense soap that has an ultra luxurious and creamy lather.

The jumbo-sized soaps appeal to the senses with beautiful wrappers and 17 magnificent scents, from honeysuckle to grapefruit fig. "They make great hostess gifts," Oprah says.

Cost: $42 (set of 3)
lafcony.com


Kai Body Butter and Body Buffer

"Bathing is an art form and nobody enjoys it more than I do," Oprah says. Kai customized their signature scent into a moisturizing body butter in a tub just for Oprah. Kai body lotion contains safflower seed oil, shea butter, apricot kernel oil, and cucumber a silky whipped soufflé with a moisturizing shea butter base blended with safflower seed oil, vitamins A, C, and E, aloe leaf extract, chamomile flower extract, cucumber fruit extract, apricot kernel oil, and the original kai perfume oil. "It's clean and fresh," she says.

She also loves the Body Buffer by Kai, a hypo-allergenic loofah infused with a light blend of exotic perfumes and natural essences to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the skin. Just wet and squeeze to release foaming bubbles that smell like an exotic garden.

Cost: Body Buffer $28; Body Butter $55
kaifragrance.com
Also available at embraceyourstyle.com and eluxury.com


Clarisonic Skin Care System

Developed by the people who created the Sonicare Toothbrush, the Clarisonic Skin Care System helps remove six times more makeup than soap and water alone. The bristles vibrate 300 times per second and massage your face to squeaky clean perfection. The Clarisonic system cleanses so well that products absorb better; reduces oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes; visibly shrinks pores; minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; and leaves skin feeling and looking younger and smoother. "It's a miracle massage for your face," Oprah says.

Cost: $195 (includes Cordless Clarisonic, charging cradle, two brush heads, and 2 oz. trial size Gentle Hydro Cleanser)
clarisonic.com

Seeing Double


Last month, Beauty.com launched new industry-leading features to its recently redesigned web store. Visitors to the site now have direct online access to personalized, comprehensive recommendations for skin and hair care regimens across multiple brands and price points.

"These innovative tools are bringing the traditional makeup counter experience closer to our online beauty customers by showing them products specifically selected for their individual needs and concerns," said Dawn Lepore Chairman and CEO of drugstore.com. "This compelling and informative shopping experience makes is easier for customers to make choices that are right for them."

The individually designed plans recommend products from more than 200 prestige beauty brands now available on beauty.com, which is owned by drugstore.com, a leading online provider of health, beauty, vision and pharmacy products.

With it’s revamped look, “Fragrance Finder” function, and free samples with purchase, Beauty.com is looking a lot like another online beauty retailer. Here’s a hint: S_PHORA

Would you like to solve the puzzle, or do you need to buy a vowel?

Let It Snow

Spongeables Snowflake is a new foam-release system with aromatherapy that has a week’s (or more) worth of luxurious, skin-pampering cleansing and moisturizing, from neck to toe. The sponge is already infused with shower gel, shea butter, olive oil, and antioxidant Vitamins A & E. With a just-right massaging/exfoliating texture and blizzard of rich, thick suds, the Spongeables Snowflake is the perfect portable shower companion.

For frequent fliers, tuck one into a carry-on or in your checked luggage with no fear of leaks, spills, or the TSA making you put it in a Ziplock bag.

Available in cucumber melon, spicy mango, marine sunrise, sweet jasmine, and tangy grapefruit. Catch a snowflake today at Drugstore.com.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Sweet Feet



The time has come to reveal the winner of Spoiled Pretty's giveaway, sponsored by Dr. Smith's Foot Care. So without further ado...congratulations to Gee Winand! Gee is the winner of Dr. Smith's four-part foot care system, which includes:

*Mineral Foot Soak
*Soy, Aloe, & Vitamin E Foot Cream
*Deodorizing Foot Wash
*Tea Tree Oil Anti-Fungal Treatment

Special thanks to Dr. Maasi J. Smith, founder and director of Rittenhouse Foot and Ankle Associates, for graciously sponoring this contest.

To learn more about Dr. Smith's services, book an appointment, or purchase his foot care products online - click here.

Thanks to everyone who entered. Check back for another giveaway real soon...

Milestone For MAC

On November 15th, Eve and Dita Von Teese were on hand at the MAC store in NYC to mark a momentous milestone for the MAC Aids Fund - $100 million raised to help fight HIV and AIDS around the world! The money represents the sale, over the past 13 years, of more than 7.1 million VIVA GLAM lip products – of which 100% of the sale price has gone to the work of the Fund.

Helping to drive fundraising for the MAC AIDS Fund have been a host of celebrity spokespeople; each connected with a specific shade of VIVA GLAM Lipstick, these 16 spokespeople have made public appearances and appeared in advertisements to raise money and awareness for the fight against HIV and AIDS. The inaugural VIVA GLAM spokesperson was performer, RuPaul. Since then, others have joined the ranks, including Mary J. Blige, Sir Elton John, Missy Elliott, Boy George, Linda Evangelista, Chloë Sevigny, Christina Aguilera, Pamela Anderson, and Debbie Harry. Currently the faces of the MAC AIDS Fund are R&B artist, Eve and burlesque star, Dita Von Teese.

“The celebrities who have joined us over the years embody the spirit of MAC and the MAC AIDS Fund – Every Race, Every Sex, Every Age,” said MAC AIDS Fund Chairman and MAC President, John Demsey. “By bringing these new faces to VIVA GLAM, we have been able to keep not only the brand but the cause fresh for consumers, helping to drive the MAC AIDS Fund to new levels.”

Congrats, MAC!

Last Day To Enter Dr. Smith's Giveaway!


Today is the last day to enter Dr. Smith’s Foot Care Giveaway! One winner will recieve Dr. Smith's four-part foot care system, which includes:

*Mineral Foot Soak
*Soy, Aloe, & Vitamin E Foot Cream
*Deodorizing Foot Wash
*Tea Tree Oil Anti-Fungal Treatment

Click here for more information, and to enter the contest. Good luck!

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Philadelphia Phocus: Ursula Augustine

When I visited Ursula Augustine in her Rittenhouse studio, I patiently waited while she finished the makeup of a customer. As she was leaving, the woman warmly hugged Ursula and said, “See you on Saturday” before walking out of the door. Being that it was Thursday, I asked, “Is she a regular?” Ursula explained that the woman isn’t just a regular; she does her makeup 20 days out of every month. The moral of this story? Ursula Augustine has skills, and she takes care of her customers.

Ursula is a board-certified cosmetologist with an impressive career that spans over two decades. Earlier this year, she opened Philadelphia’s only makeup studio, About pHace – and since then, has been very busy, thanks to features in The Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Magazine (she was voted Best of Philly 2007, Makeup Application). Ursula’s creative talent is no news to me, as we have been acquainted for years. So for my first Philadelphia Phocus, I decided to pay her a visit and find out how the new business is doing.

The first thing I noticed while touring Ursula’s studio was the organic tea bar; depending on the day, Ursula’s customers can choose blends such as Blueberry Echinacea or Exotic Chai. And while they sip tea, customers can leaf through some of the books in her library. Ursula prefers non-fiction, particularly biographies – from Marlon Brando to Chuck D, and everyone in between. Ursula’s space, is a calm retreat in the midst of bustling downtown Philadelphia; with its waterfall wall sconces and meditation area, it’s easy to understand why Ursula’s customers come back again and again. But, naturally, talent is her ace in the hole.

In addition to her makeup artistry, Ursula recently unveiled her own line of cosmetics and skin care products that blend natural products with beautiful packaging. Her makeup line is mineral based, but this is no Bare Minerals knockoff. The foundation is liquid powder – so it’s minerals without the mess. The foundations and powders come in a variety of shades to compliment every skin tone.

Ursula’s eye shadows and blushes are gorgeous, yet very wearable – and her lipsticks are available in three finishes: matte, lip shine, and micro-bubble (which release oxygen to the lips throughout the day, keeping them hydrated). The item that blew me away, however, was the Retexturizing Face Primer – which, literally, melts into skin and leaves an invisible layer of silk on the face. Amazing is the only word to describe it.

Ursula’s own line of skin care is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and natural preservatives. When asked to name her favorite product, she couldn’t decide. “It’s like picking your favorite child,” she complained. Finally, she narrowed it down to two – her Oolong Tea and Carrot Oil Eye Cream (which smells like she poured it straight out of the teapot into the jar) and the Pumpkin Apricot Walnut Facial Scrub that she kindly gave to me as a gift. The scrub, which Ursula created years ago with her Cuisinart, is unlike any I have ever tried. It uses ground walnuts (not walnut shells) because they are gentler on skin. And the product can be used without water - just apply and tissue off, which means that you can pamper your skin anywhere, anytime.

It gets better…Ursula offers “pHace Lift Parties” - so you and a group of your friends can enjoy wine and hors d'oeuvres while taking a “Smoky Eye Class” or learning how to get that “J.Lo Glow”. She divulged that she’ll soon be adding karaoke to the menu!

Ursula’s About pHace Rittenhouse Makeup Studio is located at 1700 Sansom Street, Suite 201. For more information and to contact Ursula, visit her website.

Spoiled Pretty Tip: If you visit Ursula’s studio, ask her about the TGBIW brush. The acronym stands for “The Greatest Brush In the World”, which was shortened to fit on the brush’s handle. Created with a blend of sable, mink, and inner-thigh goat hair, the brush's name doesn’t exaggerate.

Photos courtesy of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Polished, But A Bit Rough Around The Edges

I’m a woman who likes to look polished, but never seems to have the time to pull it off. So on a trip to Sephora last week, I picked up their Professionnel Electrical Buffer. This battery-operated, nail buffer promises professional, salon quality results at home. It includes three detachable buffing pads: a heavier grit for shaping, a super-fine grit for smoothing, and a foam pad for adding luster.

This gadget is ideal for smoothing nails in preparation for polish, and for creating a natural buffed shine. Unfortunately, the filing attachment leaves much to be desired; with this tool, it might take you all day to file down a snagged nail – so don’t throw out your trusty emery board just yet.

All things considered, it was $20 well spent…and used in tandem with my OPI Ridge Filler, my nail routine is going to be smooth sailing.

Friday, November 16, 2007

Hola From Orlando


By the time you read this, I’ll probably be back in Philadelphia – but I had to report on my fabulous beauty finds in Florida. I’m here on business, but I had some downtime – which I chose to fill with a trip to the Orlando Premium Outlets. I visited the Philadelphia Premium Outlets on Monday, so I guess you could say that I’m addicted.

Anyway, I stopped by The Cosmetics Company Store, and it didn’t disappoint. Like the one in Philadelphia, the outlet carried Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Estee Lauder, MAC, Origins, and Prescriptives. But they also sell select products from Stila (including some discontinued, yet gorgeous, shades of Lip Glaze).

I picked up three MAC Eye Shadows for $10 each (normally $14) and two MAC Tendertone Lip Balms for $11.25 each (usually $14.50). Tendertone is a lipcolor that combines the shine of a gloss with the soft emollient feel of a lip conditioner. Moisturizing and non-sticky in wear, they smell like a candy apple. I highly recommend Deep Sigh (sheer bronze pearl) and Pucker (sheer raspberry).

Feed Your Face

Did you know that our skin absorbs up to 64% of what we put on it? It’s a scary statistic, considering the ingredients found in most cosmetic products. Juice Beauty prefers to do things the natural way, using certified organic ingredients in their paraben-, fragrance-, and petroleum-free formulas. This line of cleansers, moisturizers, masks, and treatments uses freshly-squeezed organic juice concentrates as its base, not water – so products are rich in potent antioxidants, essential vitamins, phytonutrients and hydroxy acids. Juice Beauty gets your skin glowing while leaving you with peace of mind.

My favorite Juice Beauty product is the Green Apple Peel – Sensitive Skin. This powerful (yet gentle) hydroxy acid complex of certified organic apple, lemon, grape juices, and raw cane sugar exfoliates and brightens for visibly improved skin tone and texture – and it smells good enough to eat!

If you’re a bit hesitant to spend $39 for 2 ounces of the Green Apple Peel, go to juicebeauty.com and pick up a sample for $4.75. Trust me, you’ll be back for more.

Their motto is: “Try it because it’s organic. Use it because it works.” I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Juice Beauty is available at Sephora, hsn.com, and juicebeauty.com.