Once You Go MAC Style Black, You Never Go Back

Haven't you heard? Black is the new black.

For the past six months, I was anxiously counting down the days until September 24th. Not because it was my birthday, but because I had insider information that MAC was re-releasing its Volcanic Ash Exfoliator as part of the Style Black Collection. If you're a Spoiled Pretty regular, you've probably heard me mention it once or twice...or, possibly, a million times. That's how much I adore this scrub.

I’ve tested an excessive amount of exfoliants, so it takes a serious scrub to even get my attention...and the Volcanic Ash Exfoliator is, hands down, the best EVER. Yes, I said ever - as in since primordial soup 'til today.

Originally released as part of MAC's Future Earth collection last summer, it became a cult classic. Those who missed out were singing the shoulda woulda coulda's. And those who got a taste were wishing they could jump in a DeLorean, rev up the Flux Capacitor and go back to June 2008 and snag a lifetime supply. I fell into the second category, rationing my Volcanic Ash Exfoliator like it was a bag of beans on a season of Survivor.

Now that MAC has answered my prayers (and even packaged it in a convenient tube), I've stocked up and I suggest you do the same. It's already sold out on maccosmetics.com, so I suggest you do your best Sherlock Holmes impression and sleuth that sh*t out (hint: Macys.com and Nordstrom.com still have it in stock).

And don't just buy one lonely tube. Ah, naw. by the time you buy one, try it, and realize you can't live without it, exfoliating fools will have wiped out the supply. So just trust me on this one, act like you're at Costco, and buy in bulk.

The Style Black collection also includes these other gems:

Volcanic Ash Thermal Mask, $19.50
Formulated with volcanic ash and natural oils, this ash-black facial mask simultaneously deep-cleanses and treats the skin. When water is added, the mask heats up and the oils instantly lubricate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and clean. Helps keep skin moist, clean, soft and evenly textured.

Mineralize Eye Shadow, $19.50
Cinderfella: Mineralize black with silver pearl (frost)
Gilt By Association: Mineralize black with gold bronze pearl (frost)
Blue Flame: Mineralize black with blue pearl (frost)
Young Punk: Mineralize black with pinkish purple pearl (frost)

Cream Colour Base, $16.50
Black: Creamy true black
Bat Black: Blackened burgundy with pink pearl

Penultimate Eye Liner, $16.50
Rapidblack: True black

Greasepaint Stick, $17.50
Intense black

Eye Kohl, $14.50
Smolder: Intense black

Cremesheen Lipstick, $14
Black Knight: Creamy true black

Mattene Lipstick, $14.50
Night Violet: Deep purple grape
Midnight Media: Dense matte black

Glimmerglass Lip Gloss, $18
Bling Black: Sheer black with gold pearl (as seen at NYFW Fall 2009)
Blackfire: Sheer black with pinkish purple pearl
Blackware: Creamy true black

Nail Lacquer, $12
Seriously Hip: Black with gold particle pearl
Baby Goth Girl: Black with pinkish purple pearl
Nocturnelle: Black as night black

214 Short Shader Brush, $23


The Style Black collection is now available at MAC counters, stores and maccosmetics.com.

The Face Masque That Makes You A Mouth Breather

Biologique Recherche's Masque Vivant is absolutely amazing, if you can get past the odor (it looks and smells like fermented soy sauce).

You're supposed to apply it and then let it do its thing for 10 to 20 minutes - which, in Daneen time, translates to a half hour. I always leave products on longer than instructed for optimum results, because I'm crazy like that. But the smell was so godawful that I could only bear 9.5 minutes before rushing to wash it off.

But let me tell you...once I removed the masque from my face, it was like there was new skin underneath. My complexion was radiant and my skin felt baby smooth. And I had this rosy glow - as if Kevyn Aucoin, himself, had expertly applied some rouge to my cheeks.

In closing, Biologique Recherche's Masque Vivant may smell like death. But it gave my drab visage new life. And for the results it delivers, I'll gladly breathe out of my mouth. Hopefully next time, I can make it to 10 minutes...maybe more!

Phone A Friend About REN Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask

You know you've hit the beauty jackpot when you can't wait to call your mom/sister/BFF and tell her to put said product on her shopping list...which is exactly what I did after trying REN Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask, a facial treatment formulated to dramatically remove dead cells, smooth lines, and help prevent the appearance of spots and blackheads.

On Saturday, after Amber gushed about her blonde bombshell transformation (at the hands of master colorist, Jason Backe), I dished about my fab new skincare find.

After I slathered the citrus-scented mask on my mug and waited the requisite 10 minutes, I was a bit disappointed. Surely the fact that the peel wasn't tingling, burning, or sizzling my skin meant that I would soon add this product to my 'beauty busts' list, right? Wrong.

After rinsing it off, my skin was soft, decongested and remarkably radiant; while Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask may gentle on the skin, it does a phenomenal job of bustin' up stubborn blackheads. Post-peel, my complexion was so A-list celeb dewy, I didn't recognize my own skin.

So if you suffer from dullness, fine lines and/or clogged pores, run out and get you some REN. And once you've used it and are thoroughly impressed (which I know you will be), spread the word and phone a friend.

Coming Soon: MAC Hello Kitty Collection

Hello Kitty Color Collection

All that’s girly and sparkly.

This sophisticated color story takes its cue from both the fantastical world of Hello Kitty and the glamour of the spring fashion shows. It will feature plush pinks, rich purples, turquoise for extra pop, three-dimensional lickable lips and lashes that were made to bat, all packaged in a sophisticated yet adorable graphic black design to give the line that baaaaaad kitty edge.

MAC paired six playful Lipstick shades with six sparkling Lipglass glosses, two Tinted Lip Conditioners that will have your kisser covered, and two bright and punchy eye quads that can be accented with reflective eye Glitter and Glitter Eye Liners, all of which are perfectly framed by the thickest, most decadent Plush Lash Mascara. Beauty Powder Blush in shades of pink and peach will give the MAC Hello Kitty woman a demure, rosy flush and nails are decorated in fabulous shades of pepto-pink, modern grey and creamy white Nail Lacquer.

MAC Hello Kitty Accessories

To Kitty-fy your life.

Finally, we know how devoted Hello Kitty collectors are, and with that in mind we’ve designed an accessory collection like no other. Hello Kitty was created with the idea that everyone should be able to snap up a gift for a friend (or yourself!), and there’s literally something for everyone.

Of course makeup lovers will adore the Criss Cross Half Lashes, Makeup Bags and Vanity Case with the exclusive pink and white collaboration logo. We’re rolling out a Brush Collection, adorable Purse Mirror, Mirrored Key Clip, Beaded Bracelet with darling charms, and the sure to be cult classic 14” MAC Hello Kitty Plush Doll. Snatch up these playful, yet practical graphic Makeup Bags at any MAC location.


LIPSTICK
Cute-ster: Sheer peachy pink with pearl
Big Bow: Sheer bright intense blue pink
Fresh Brew: Creamed coffee
Fashion Mews: Sheer pale lavender
Strayin ’: Frosty midtone mint
Most Popular: Sheer deep berry
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00


LIPGLASS
Sweet Strawberry: Sheer berry with blue pearl
Mimmy: Light creamy pink with pink and gold pearl
Nice to be Nice: Sheer bright intense orange with pearl
Nice Kitty: Sheer neon pink with blue pearl
She Loves Candy: Pale blue pink with gold pearl
Fast Friends: Sheer bright intense purple with pearl
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00


TINTED LIP CONDITIONER
Popster Lively: Coral Pink
Pink Fish: Soft Neutral Pink
Suggested Retail Price: $14.50


EYE SHADOW x 4: LUCKY TOM
Stylin ’: Midtone violet blue with multi-dimensional pearl
Lucky Tom: Dark charcoal brown with gold pearl
Crème Royale: Yellow wheat gold
Paradisco: Soft bright pinky-coral with golden shimmer
Suggested Retail Price: $38.00


EYE SHADOW x 4: TOO DOLLY
Too Dolly: Frosty midtone mint
Stately Black: Rich blue with silver sparkle
Yogurt: Soft pale pink
Romping: Rich magenta with pink pearl
Suggested Retail Price: $38.00


PIGMENT
Milk: Frosty pale silvery pink
Deep Blue Green: Rich, deep bluish green
Suggested Retail Price: $19.50


REFLECTS GLITTER
Reflects Blue: Sparkling Blue
Reflects Very Pink: Sparkling fuchsia pink
Suggested Retail Price: $19.50


GLITTER EYE LINER
Her Glitz: Blackened gold with multi-dimensional glitter
Glitterpuss: Orangey bronze with multi-dimensional glitter
Kitty Power: Pink with multi-dimensional glitter
Girl Groove: Clear/white teal reflects and multi-dimensional glitter
Suggested Retail Price: $16.50


PLUSH LASH
Plushblack: Black
Suggested Retail Price: $12.00


BEAUTY POWDER BLUSH
Fun & Games: Soft orange peach
Tippy: Midtone blue pink
Suggested Retail Price: $18.00


BEAUTY POWDER
Tahitian Sand: Soft coral peach
Pretty Baby: Soft sunny pink with gold
Suggested Retail Price: $22.00


LASH
Hello Kitty Lash: Half lash with overlapping hairs to emphasize outer corner of eyes.
Suggested Retail Price: $12.00


NAIL LACQUER
Something About Pink: Blue pink fuchsia
On the Prowl: Light creamy grey
Vestral White: Creamy white
Suggested Retail Price: $11.00


MAC HELLO KITTY TOTE
Rectangular tote bag with collaboration inspired graphics and logo.
Suggested Retail Price: $45.00
Available exclusively at maccosmetics.com.


MAC HELLO KITTY PETITE MAKEUP BAG
Small soft train case silhouette with full zip closure.
Suggested Retail Price: $22.00
Available at all MAC locations.


MAC HELLO KITTY MAKEUP BAG
Medium soft train case silhouette with full zip closure.
Suggested Retail Price: $35.00
Available at all MAC locations.


MAC HELLO KITTY SOFT VANITY CASE
Large soft train case silhouette with full zip closure. Fabric is black vinyl with pink and white collaboration logo.
Suggested Retail Price: $55.00
Available exclusively at maccosmetics.com.


MAC HELLO KITTY PURSE MIRROR
Compact inspired by collaboration; interior contains standard mirror on one side and magnifying mirror on alternate side.
Suggested Retail Price: $22.00
Available at MAC retail stores, Nordstrom and maccosmetics.com only.


MAC HELLO KITTY BRUSH COLLECTION
Round plastic jar inspired by collaboration that holds 3 SE brushes with blank handles.
187SE Duo Fibre Brush
109SE Small Contour Brush
239SE Eye Shade Brush
Suggested Retail Price: $49.50
Available at MAC retail stores, Nordstrom and maccosmetics.com only.


MAC HELLO KITTY MIRRORED KEY CLIP
Bag zipper clip with 2 charms inspired by collaboration; key chain and mini mirror.
Suggested Retail Price: $16.00
Available at MAC retail stores and maccosmetics.com only.


MAC HELLO KITTY BEADED BRACELET
Black beaded bracelet with 3 charms; inspired by collaboration.
Suggested Retail Price: $34.00
Available at MAC retail stores and maccosmetics.com only.


MAC HELLO KITTY PLUSH DOLL
14” plush doll in black, pink and white nylon.
Suggested Retail Price: $42.00
Available at MAC retail stores, Nordstrom and maccosmetics.com only.

Available North America February 12, 2009 at all MAC locations and maccosmetics.com; International March 2009.

Amino, What A Mask-o!

There was a blogger, had clogged pores
Amino – what a mask-o!
A-M-I-N-O
A-M-I-N-O
A-M-I-N-O
Amino – what a mask-o!



For the past month, I have been walking around with the most clogged pores ever. I'm not talking about a blackhead here and there. I'm talking about pores so congested that I can actually feel how engorged with gunk they are.

I tried just about everything to purge my pores. In my bathroom, I was channeling TI...chanting "bring em out" while slathering my face with every cleanser, toner, and treatment in my beauty arsenal. And while these products left my complexion looking a bit better, my face still felt full.

Enter Bioelements Amino Mask - the answer to my proverbial prayers. This medicated acne treatment coaxes dead skin and sebum from pores, destroys acne bacteria, controls overactive oil production and helps to hear existing blemishes. The creamy and airy texture was a welcome surprise - and after just one use, my face felt like it could breathe again. Amino Mask is like Vicks VapoRub for stuffy pores.

Kate Somerville Coming To A Store Near You

Kate Somerville’s skin care products will soon be available at a store near you. This summer, the line will be popping up at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Henri Bendel.

Never tried Kate Somerville, but looking for a 1st product recommendation? Look no further than ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment. This clinical-strength exfoliant decongests stubborn skin and improves a blah complexion. The active fruit enzymes eliminate dead skin cells, diminish bacteria and reveal a healthy, rosy glow.

According to Kate, it’s the next best thing to visiting her Los Angeles clinic – and it’s especially effective in combating acne and discoloration.

ExfoliKate comes in the most genius jar; it dispenses out the ExfoliKate without letting air in. Which means the product stays fresh, for effective exfoliation use after use. And ExfoliKate isn’t a time or labor intensive treatment. Use 1 to 2 times per week, apply in an even layer, leave on for 20-30 seconds, and wash off. You will notice a dramatically softer and smoother skin after just one treatment! I always use ExfoliKate a few hours before a date with Mr. Spoiled Pretty or a special event.


So be on the lookout for Kate Somerville in your neck of the woods. Having Kate this close has its pros and cons. On the one hand, your face has never looked better. On the other hand, this line has so many winners, your credit card will surely get a workout.

Kate Somerville is always available at katesomerville.com.

The 9!! Kit By Kate Somerville - Plus A Giveaway!!!

It’s 3am, and you’re tossing and turning in your bed. You’re having nightmares about problem skin. Then you wake up to learn that your nightmare is indeed a reality. There’s nasty acne erupting on your face.

All over the world, there are women out there just like you…dreaming about solutions to their skin disasters. But there’s a phone ringing at Kate Somerville’s house - and, luckily, she’s awake whipping up clinical-strength treatments to send your skin into recovery mode.

Sorry. I couldn't resist.

For over 15 years, Kate Somerville’s dedication to research and development has kept her at the forefront of skin wellness, and her intuitive approach has set her apart. Whatever your concern, whatever your skin type, it is her goal to give clients and retail customers the tools necessary for a healthy complexion.


My skin is problematic and sensitive - but I have yet to meet a Kate Somerville product I didn’t like, and the following is no exception. The 9!! Kit contains four absolutely fabulous products for acne-prone skin, like mine. The kits contains:

Detox Daily Wash: Every acne treatment performed in Kate Somerville’s clinic begins with Detox Daily Cleanser. This detoxifying cleanser restores clarity to your complexion.

Clarifying Treatment Toner: Result-oriented and alcohol-free, this refreshing toner clarifies and balances oily/problematic skin. Witch hazel, a natural antiseptic, aggressively fights acne-causing bacteria. Phytic acid, a naturally delivered antioxidant, exfoliator and lightening agent, helps to reduce post-acne scars. This toner leaves skin feeling clean and calm while reducing oil production.

Anti-Bac Clearing Lotion: This product is a prescription quality, intensive acne treatment that has been extensively tried and tested at Kate Somerville’s clinic. This advanced formulation has delivered life-changing results to Kate’s personal clients. Anti-Bac Clearing Lotion contains encapsulated Benzoyl Peroxide 5%, the most advanced and successful acne-fighting ingredient on the market. The controlled-release formula works around the clock without over-drying skin, like traditional Benzoyl Peroxide formulations. It kills bacteria and treats inflamed breakouts, while helping to prevent future acne.

Clearing Mask: This intensive mask treatment helps heal blemishes, prevent future breakouts and achieve clear, radiant skin.

The 9!! Kit also includes trial sizes of Kate’s Line Release (my Mom’s favorite eye treatment) and ExfoliKate.

Jessica Alba, Katherine Heigl, Debra Messing, Molly Sims, and Sharon Stone all depend on Kate for healthy skin and ageless beauty. So why shouldn’t you?

This set of products retails for $116. But lucky for you, there’s a blogger in Philly who loves spoiling her readers pretty. This week, you can enter the Kate Somerville Giveaway to win The 9!! Kit.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com - be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Kate Somerville Giveaway.” The contest ends at 9pm EST on Sunday, April 20th. A winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, April 21st, I’ll announce the winner’s name. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

Bonne chance!

Glacial Facial

A few days ago, when I blogged about my Aquis Microfiber Headband, I mentioned that I was trying a new facial mask. Well, the time has come to tell you about that new product.


The Glacial Facial Purifying Mineral Mud Masque, by Alaska Glacial Mud Co, contains the most mineral-rich and pure glacial clay in the world - harvested from the remote waters of the Copper River Delta in Alaska. It detoxifies, exfoliates, and softens skin while more than 60 nourishing major and trace elements promote healthy skin cell renewal. The mud is further enriched with a special combination of botanical extracts from the Pacific Northwest, chosen for their moisturizing, softening, and anti-aging properties.

So I used the lavender-peppermint variety of the masque (also available in vanilla-lavender and unscented) for the first time this past weekend. I applied the product with the mud masque application brush; which, I must say is such a great idea…it helps you apply a thin layer so that you don’t waste any of the masque, and there’s no messy fingers! Anyway, I brushed the mud all over, and once my entire face was covered, I started to feel it working. A first, I was a little afraid of the tingle – but it dissipated almost immediately. After letting it dry, I washed the masque off with a washcloth and warm water – revealing touchably soft skin. Seriously, I couldn’t keep my hands off of my face! And unlike most masks, it doesn’t leave your face tight and dry.

After a not so great experience with DDF’s Sulfur Therapeutic Mask (it didn’t do anything for my skin, the stinky smell lingered long after the product was washed off, and it made my eyes sting for two days), I am thrilled to have found a face mask that delivers on its promises.

Bottom line: the Glacial Facial Purifying Mineral Mud Masque offers both tradition and innovation for the spa-loving and eco-conscious goddess who wants to self-indulge at home.

Do It Yourself

Pampering yourself doesn’t have to put a strain on your pocketbook. The next time you’re longing for the spa or the salon, head to your kitchen instead. You don’t have to be a top chef to master the following DIY beauty recipes. All you need is a few minutes and some everyday ingredients. And, voila…a more beautiful you!*


Eliut Rivera's Cucumber & Olive Oil Shine-Boosting Hair Treat
Heat, sun, and sweat can do a number on your hair. This rich mask, from the celeb stylist who counts Penélope Cruz among his fans, helps return your mane to its former soft and shiny self.

1 cucumber
1 or 2 tablespoons olive oil (depending on length of hair)

Puree cucumber and olive oil in blender or food processor. Comb mixture evenly through hair, concentrating on ends. Let set for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly, shampoo twice, and condition as usual.


Naturopathica's Skin-Softening Avocado Mask
This quick-fix moisturizer from the famed East Hampton spa thwarts dry skin fast.

1/2 avocado
1 egg
1 tablespoon plain yogurt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional; adds extra moisture)

Blend all ingredients together. Apply to face. Leave on five to ten minutes and rinse well.


Raechel Cunningham's Mojito Scrub for Rough Hands
This cocktail-inspired scrub, from aesthetician Raechel Cunningham of New York Laser & Aesthetics, leaves hands smooth enough to raise a glass confidently in public.

1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 small lime
3 to 5 mint leaves

Chop mint leaves and squeeze 1/2 lime into bowl. Combine remaining ingredients. Massage into palm of hand, working the product around. Also makes a great cuticle treatment.


Sweet Lily's Grapefruit Vodka Pedicure
This grapefruit-vodka foot treatment from the Tribeca-based natural nail spa sounds good enough to drink, but we suggest you whip up a second batch for your drinking pleasure.

1 gallon grapefruit juice (no pulp)
1 sliced grapefruit (pink or yellow)
2 limes (1 sliced in wheels, the other halved)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 shot glass of vodka

Pour 1/4 cup sugar into small bowl and place lime half on top. Heat grapefruit juice on stove or in microwave until warm (not hot). Pour heated juice into a large basin, add shot of vodka, and garnish with sliced grapefruit and lime. Soak feet for a few minutes. Then, dip a lime half into the sugar and squeeze out a bit of the juice. Use lime to gently apply sugar to feet in a circular motion to exfoliate rough skin. Repeat with remaining sugar and the other lime half. Rinse well. Follow with foot lotion and polish.

*Before you start: do a patch test to make sure you aren’t allergic to any ingredients.

Recipes courtesy of Style.com.

Good Gourd

October is right around the corner. And when I think of the tenth month of the year, pumpkins always come to mind. Although the fruit (you thought it was a vegetable, didn’t ya?) is most commonly used in pies and bread, pumpkin’s health benefits make it a beneficial beauty product ingredient.

Pumpkin contains more than 100 nutrients, which may be used to help reverse signs of aging. Pumpkin enzymes have the highest source of beta carotene and vitamins to combat oxidation and free radical damage.

Fall is officially here…and to celebrate the change of season, here are my top picks of the pumpkin patch. Trust me - these products will leave you glowing and grinning like a jack-o-lantern.


Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Peel
A detoxifying peel for the face and neck. Utilizing pumpkin enzymes to easily and gently dissolve dead surface skin cells, this deep exfoliator stimulates cellular turnover, to reveal radiant skin that is supple and naturally hydrated. Age-fighting anti-oxidants and Vitamin A help protect, nourish, and repair skin. Plus it has a delicious, irresistible pumpkin scent.


Molton Brown Skinbalance Toning Lotion
Naturally exfoliate and brighten the complexion with this non-drying, rebalancing preparation. American pumpkin enzymes, pink grapefruit, lime and yeast extract combine to strengthen the skin and reduce moisture loss. Skin is revitalized, softened and smoothed. Gentle enough to use around the eye area, this is suitable for all skin types.


Bath & Body Works Pure Simplicity Pumpkin Purifying Mask
It's like putting holiday dessert right on your body! But this purifying mask does more than just smell great—it exfoliates and moisturizes, leaving your skin smooth as silk. Oprah touted this product as one of her 'favorite things' back in 2003. (Bath & Body Works recently discontinued their Pure Simplicity line, but you can still find this magnificent mask on eBay).


Burt's Bees Miracle Salve
Save yourself from dry hair and skin, miraculously. Moisturize and nourish hair, hands, and body with this super-enriched, emollient formula. Pumpkin seed oil, which is rich in fatty acids, combines with olive oil and wheat germ extract to hydrate and protect dry hair and skin. Meanwhile, protein-rich bee pollen nourishes and rejuvenates, while emollient beeswax holds in moisture.


Yes To Carrots C is for Hair Care - Hair and Scalp Mud Mask
Experience gorgeous hair like never before with C is for Hair Care. C is for Hair Care moisturizes, softens, detangles, shines, and volumizes...and contains extracts of carrot, pumpkin, orange & honey, rich with Beta-Carotene, Alpha-Carotene, Vitamin E and other enzymes that keep your locks in tip-top condition.


Bella Lucce Pumpkin Glow Body Scrub
The enzymes in pumpkin pulp combine with pumpkin seed oil to dissolve dull, dead cells, revealing the healthy radiant skin underneath. Pure cane sugar is enveloped in this creamy blend of nourishing oils and butters, spiked with warm, aromatic essential oils for a soothing treat. As with all Bella Luccè scrubs, their Pumpkin Glow emulsifies into a creamy lotion when applied, then rinses clean for delectably soft skin without oily residue. Bella Lucce also carries a Warming Pumpkin Masque.

PS (Pumpkin Secret) – In the late 90’s, the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago conducted a study that concluded one third of American men are turned on by the smell pumpkin pie. Intrigued? Click here to learn more.

Laying It On Thick

A few weeks ago, I was in C.O. Bigelow - zipping through the aisles like a Whirling Dervish. A helpful salesgirl, seeing I was overwhelmed by the plethora of products, approached me and asked if I needed help finding anything in particular. Usually I coyly answer, "Just looking" - hoping that the salesperson backs up and leaves me to my own devices (eg- testing 20+ shades of lipgloss on the back of my hand).

But this time, I actually needed some assistance. I explained that I turn into an oil slick during the summer and I'm sick of looking shiny all of the time. So she patiently guided me around the store, suggesting cleansers, toners, and other oil-obsorbing products. I purchased a few, and when she rang me up, she threw a good amount of samples in my bag as well. Now that's what I call customer service (shout out to my local C.O. Bigelow store in the King of Prussia Mall)!

When I returned home, I ripped open my bag to see what beauty booty this girl had bestowed upon me. I was excited to see that she had included DDF's Daily Matte SPF 15, which I had heard such wonderful things about. Sephora describes the product as, "Ideal daily care for oil and combination skin, this lightweight, shine reducing fluid is oil-free and boasts a powerful SPF 15." Well, when Sephora says it's powerful - they ain't just whistlin' dixie.

I applied the Daily Matte immediately after washing my face, and I had planned to follow with a lightweight foundation. As I started smoothing the product onto my face, I couldn't help but be a bit turned off my how thick it felt. I then became more annoyed that it kind of sat on top of my skin, rather than melting into it - the way I thought it would. In fact, to be perfectly honest, it was like slathering sunblock onto my face. Now I realize that the product contains sunscreen, but so do plenty of other facial mositurizers and treatments...and they don't leave me with a Coppertone complexion.

My skin hated this product so much that I couldn't bear it on my face for more than 5 minutes. I had to wash it off and start all over. Don't you just hate when that happens?

Hence, I'm going to have to give Daily Matte SPF 15 two (manicured and Essie-polished) thumbs down. But don't think I'm hating on DDF products...I absolutely love their Sulfur Therapeutic Mask, which helps to clear blemishes, clogged pores, acne, and seborrhea.