Urban Decay De-Slick Setting Spray

Welcome to Miami...bienvenito a Miami!

I've gotta hand it to my Miami mamacitas. Summer in your city is no joke. No wonder y'all walk around half dressed in the middle of the day.

While covering Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim as a correspondent for Mary Kay, I must have lost 10 lbs. in water weight just sweating my ass off. That kind of heat and humidity typically turn my face into an oil slick of BP proportions. Luckily, I came prepared.

Two days before departure, I visited my local Sephora store and picked up a bottle of Urban Decay De-Slick Setting Spray, which controls shine and keeps your makeup as you applied it all day long.

De-Slick absorbs excess sebum and deflects surface shine with state-of-the-art light dispersing particles. The problem-solving, hypoallergenic formula mists on, feels weightless, and sets makeup so it endures all day! The patent pending Temperature Control Technology actually lowers the temperature of your makeup to hold foundation, eyeshadow, blush and concealer in place. The sprayer, unlike others on the market, delivers a micro-fine mist that distributes product evenly over the skin.

While in Miami, De-Slick Spray was the only thing that kept me from looking like you could fry some chicken on my mug. Muchas gracias, Urban Decay!

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

Dermalogica's Special Gel Cleanser is a concentrated, soap-free, foaming gel designed to thoroughly remove impurities without disturbing the skin's natural moisture balance. It contains no artificial fragrance or color and is ideal for all skin types. In a word, it's perfect. If you've ever wished for soft skin and a clear complexion, this is your genie in a bottle (no rubbing required).

It's very gentle on the skin, yet super effective at removing dirt, grime and even makeup. Special Gel Cleanser feels like a dream when you apply it to your skin - like silk, or something equally smooth and luxurious. If I had to compare it so something you might be familiar with, I'd say it's akin to a high-end Cetaphil. I loved this product from the day I started using it, back in late 2010. But I didn't realize how much my skin loved this cleanser until I started testing other cleansers last month and my skin straight up rebelled. Breakouts re-appeared and it completely dried out. Since then, my skin has been on a strict Dermalogica diet and I've seen improvement every day.

An 8.4 oz bottle of this good stuff costs $33, which sounds like a lot for a face cleanser. But - believe me - it's worth every penny. Special Cleansing Gel is special, indeed.

Makeup Mondays With Mario: Summer Smokey Eye and Meltproof Makeup

Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is answering your burning beauty questions!!! Every Monday, he will answer a beauty/skin care question as part of a weekly column on Spoiled Pretty, Makeup Mondays with Mario.


Hi Mario!

I want you to know I'm a HUGE fan and your work is PHENOMENAL!! Always flawless!! Well, it's that time of the year again - it's so hot and humid. Is a smokey eye or eyeliner too much for the heat? I don't even know what to do with my face because I feel like it all melts off or smudges, or I may look overdone. Can you share some tips/do's and dont's for summer makeup, and an appropriate summer smokey eye?

Thank you so much!

xoxo,
Lauren

Lauren,

Smokey, sultry eyes are great for summer! If you're having issues with your makeup melting or smudging in the summer heat, try using less products that contain oils - such as eyeliner. Smoke up your eyes using shadows. I love a shimmery copper or bronze on the top lids and smudged along the bottom lashes. A couple coats of mascara will finish the eye. Remember that for a smudge-free, long lasting eye makeup, prime your lids with concealer or foundation first, then set with a bit of loose powder. This trick also allows for flawless blending. Don't cover your whole face with makeup in the summer months. Instead, try to even out your skin tone with a sheer tinted moisturizer and if needed, follow with a concealer on blemishes. Lip stains are great in hot weather too! Apply once to lips and you literally don't have to worry about retouching all day.

Thanks for visiting Makeup Mondays with Mario!

xo,
Mario

Got a question for Mario? Email your makeup and skin care queries to spoiledprettyquestions@gmail.com, and check back next Monday to read Mario's expert advice!

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base Is Great For Greasy Gals

And the award for Best New Primer for Greasy Gals goes to L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base. I received a sample last month, and it was love at first swipe.

Don't be fooled by its putty-like texture. It applies like a dream, leaving skin so satiny soft that you'll wonder exactly how you lived your life before this product came into existence. The primer easily disguises pores and wrinkles, and imparts a matte finish. So if the summer heat and humidity turns your mug into an oil slick, you'd be a brainy beauty to invest in a jar of this pink magic.

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base is intended to be worn in tandem with your favorite tinted moisturizer or foundation. But if you're having a low-maintenance kind of day, just apply a little to bare skin and it gives you a you-but-better look.

The formula is 100% oil- and fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic - so even the most sensitive skins should tolerate this product.

Just proof, once again, that it doesn't take a million bucks to look like, well, a million bucks. L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base is this Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week.

Makeup Mondays With Mario: Hold The Oil

Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is answering your burning beauty questions!!! Every Monday, he will answer a beauty/skin care question as part of a weekly column on Spoiled Pretty, Makeup Mondays with Mario.

Hi Mario,

My problem is that when the weather gets warmer, my face gets very oily. It seems that no matter what I do, my face always looks shiny/greasy - which embarasses me. Can you recommend any products or makeup tips that might help me keep my shine under control?

Thanks!!!!!
Scarlett


Hi Scarlett,

You can control your naturally dewy skin's shine using a few products and/techniques. Start out with an oil-free, light moisturizer (Daneen recommends Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel) all over, prior to makeup application. Let that set in a couple of minutes, then apply Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light by Smashbox. If your skin doesn't need much coverage, I'd skip the foundation altogether and instead use a concealer on spots. Try Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage concealers. Use a loose powder to set the face, making sure that it's free of shimmer and sparkle, of course. Try Priori loose powder. For touch ups throughout the day, use Tatcha Blotting Papers to absorb shine. I once learned a tip from a brilliant beauty blogger who's spoiled pretty - she uses a Starbucks napkin to absorb oils on the skin. It truly works! All the more reason to go to Starbucks! Oh and one more thing- don't feel embarrassed for having oily skin – it's the most effective anti- aging product and it's all yours!

Thanks for visiting Makeup Mondays with Mario!

xo,
Mario

Got a question for Mario? Email your makeup and skin care queries to spoiledprettyquestions@gmail.com, and check back next Monday to read Mario's expert advice!

Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway Winner

Drumroll please...the winner of Spoiled Pretty's Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway is Andrea Lurie. Yay!

Andrea will receive Clinique Sun with SolarSmart line of sunscreens, ModelCo Body Meringue and Shimmer Airbrush Illuminiser, Philosophy's Never Let Them See You Shine oil-control products, Secret Clinical Waterproof Antiperspirant and Deodorant, and Fresh Citron de Vigne Eau de Parfum. Whew...that was a mouthful.

Many, many thanks to Clinique, ModelCo, Philosophy, Secret and Fresh for providing products for my latest NBC 10! Show appearance - and for generously donating an extra set of everything to offer this giveaway to Spoiled Pretty readers!

This was one of the most highly coveted prizes yet - but, alas, there could be only one winner (lucky Andrea). But if you didn't win, don't despair. Every week, there's another amazing weekly giveaway...so there's always another chance to get spoiled pretty.

Summer Beauty Staples on the NBC 10! Show

Watch my latest NBC 10! Show appearance to hear about my favorite summer beauty staples!

Every member of the studio audience went home with a few product samples. But before you get all "where can I get me a 10! show ticket?" - just relax. How could you think I would forget about my online amigas?

If you don't know me by now, you will never never never know me...

This week, I'm gifting one of you with a plethora of products that will help you beat the heat and keep you looking hot all summer long!

Clinique Sun with SolarSmart is a new line of sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is non-greasy, oil-free, water and sweat resistant, yet appropriate for sensitive skin. The range includes: SPF 30 Face Cream, SPF 50 Face Cream, SPF 30 Body Cream, SPF 50 Body Cream, SPF 15 Face/Body Cream, SPF 25 Body Spray, SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick, and Rescue Balm with Aloe.

ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow is an instant bronze shimmer and gradual self-tanner, in a mousse formula. This weightless foam firms the skin while offering a light buildable, natural tan. After smoothing the foam on, a light instant bronze appears so you can see exactly where you've applied. And over the next few hours, your tan gradually deepens. The best thing about Body Meringue, IMO, is it's skin firming properties; it contains an ingredient that helps minimize the appearance of cellulite. Can you even? And if you want to kick your tan up a notch, mist on ModelCo’s Shimmer Airbrush Illuminiser over tanned skin for a sparkly effect. My little secret tip is to spray it in your hair, which looks beyond amazing on all hair colors!

If the Philadelphia heat and humidity turn your face into an oil slick, I feel you. I get shiny too, and it’s very embarrassing and it’s a high-maintenance situation. Philosophy’s Never Let Them See You Shine line of skincare products are specifically designed to control oil. The Cleanser deep cleans pores and the Scrub gently exfoliates. The Primer creates a matte finish, and can be applied on bare skin or mixed with foundation.

Secret Clinical Waterproof Antiperspirant and Deodorant offers all-day protection through heat and humidity, or after being in the water. So it’s ideal in the city, at the pool, or at the shore. The formula is skin soothing, and Secret Clinical Waterproof is designed with two-click applicator to ensure that the right amount of product is delivered to the underarm area with each use.

In the summertime, you want to choose a lighter fragrance because heavier winter scents can become cloying in the warmer months. I’ve found the perfect summer scent: Citron de Vigne Eau de Parfum by Fresh. Inspired by France’s Champagne region, the fragrance has crisp, lemony top notes, a heart of pinot noir and an earthy base. Citron de Vigne is unisex, so buy a bottle and your entire household can share!

This prize is worth over $360!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Monday, June 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Tuesday, June 2nd, 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. and Canadian residents.

Good luck!

Do The Dew: DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15

I was very excited to try DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15, considering it was recently named a finalist in the CEW 2009 Beauty Awards. And after testing the moisturizer, I agreed with CEW's assessment, as I found that the product did - indeed - deliver on all of its promises.

The ultra-lightweight formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t clog pores. It protects skin from UVA and UVB rays without that telltale white finish that many SPF-infused products leave behind. Since it’s oil-free and fragrance free, Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15 is ideal for those with sensitive skin and acne. It’s man-friendly too. And with warmer weather just around the bend, I’ll definitely be using this product when I move my heavier winter formula to the back of my bathroom cabinet for its summer hibernation.

But despite this ringing endorsement, there is one minor caveat. With a name like Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15, you might expect that the moisturizer would give your skin a dewy effect. At least, that’s what I assumed. It doesn’t. This moisturizer is going to quench your skin’s thirst, but the finish is definitely matte...which is great for shiny sistas like me.

DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15 is $38-$40 and is available at Beauty.com, BlueMercury, DermStore, Sephora, Ulta and ddfskincare.com.

Fierce, Fabulous and Flawless With Help From Cargo Cosmetics

Last week, Mr. Spoiled Pretty abandoned his loving wife in favor of a camping/fly-fishing excursion to Idaho. Now you know I wasn’t about to go hiking up mountains and trek through the wilderness to chill with rattlesnakes, horse flies and mosquitoes. So I stayed my ass at home and caught up on some reading, writing, and arithmetic (I took inventory of my makeup stockpile, and I’m slightly embarrassed by my excessive collection of lipglosses).

By the time the weekend came around, I had developed such a case of cabin fever that it didn’t take long for my BFF, Kristen, to lure your resident recluse out of the house. After some indecision, we opted to meet at a low-key bar and catch up over cheap, domestic beer. It’s been crazy hot in Philly lately, so I didn’t put too much thought or effort into my outfit, hair, or makeup; I threw on some jeans, quickly flat ironed my hair, and swiped on some Cargo blu_ray™ High Definition Mattifier before finishing my face off with mascara and gloss.

Around midnight, after drinking probably a little too much (pitchers are dangerous cuz I can never keep count), I took a bathroom break. I perched my handbag on the sink, rummaged for my blotting papers, and prepared to sop up the grease. But when I looked in the mirror, I was absolutely astonished. My face was flawless (well, flawless as in shine-free…not flawless as in resembling Liya Kebede).

And my face remained that way until I washed it off before bed. In fact, the only oil-related incident that night was a basket of greasy fries that Kristen and I couldn’t resist ordering just before last call.

Cargo blu_ray™ High Definition Mattifier is available at cargocosmetics.com and Sephora.

Hello, QVC? Yes…It’s Spoiled Pretty Calling For Kate Somerville

Last night, I did something I’ve never done before. I called QVC. Not to buy anything…just to tell Kate Somerville that she’s a rock star. The woman is so unpretentious and glowy, what beauty addict wouldn’t wanna chitchat and pick her brain a bit?

So after two rings, a friendly customer service rep answered the phone and asked what item number I’d like to purchase. I explained that I didn’t want to purchase anything - I just wanted to talk to Kate. All the while, I was unconsciously disguising my voice. Why? I have absolutely no idea. It’s just one of those stupid things you do without rhyme or reason…as if the woman on the other end of the line is gonna say, “Daneen…is that you?”

Anyway, the representative told me that – at that time – they weren’t taking testimonials, but kindly thanked me for calling QVC before ending the call.

I would have loved to converse with Kate. We could have bonded over our mutual fondness for exfoliation. I wanted to tell her that ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment is pure genius…that my mom thinks her Line Release Under Eye Repair is worth its weight in gold…and that I can’t wait to get my mitts on her new Oil-Free Moisturizer.

But who do they patch through to Ms. Somerville? Two crazy ladies who rambled on so long that they forgot what they were talking about. Typical. It’s just like the TV news – the on-the-scene reporter always interviews the eccentric woman with curlers in her hair or the man with the missing teeth who has nothing particularly relevant to say.

Gotta get me some of that moisturizer. I’ll report back when I do.

L'Oréal Skin Genesis Daily Moisturizer Oil-Free Lotion

L’Oreal says...

This unique, lightweight hydrator creates a more flawless complexion. The oil-free formula instantly smoothes skin’s surface and evens tone.

Strength building benefits:
* Builds strength deep within skin’s surface
* Reinforces skin’s matrix to add fullness, improve elasticity, and renew skin’s eveness from within
* Strengthens from between skin’s layers
* Helps promote healthy collagen production to fortify skin’s structure and support
* Smoothes the surface layer
* Boosts cellular renewal to help erase fine lines, and instantly hydrates for more even, light-reflective skin

Spoiled Pretty says…

As part of their 2007 Best of Beauty Awards, Allure Magazine honored L'Oréal Paris Skin Genesis line with the Breakthrough Award. Here’s why…the products are formulated with patented Pro-Xylane, an exclusive L'Oréal molecule seven years in the making that strengthens skin and reignites cell activity layers.

I’m no chemist, so I can’t really speak to the science behind Skin Genesis. But as a beauty addict, I can safely say that the Skin Genesis Daily Moisturizer Oil-Free Lotion ranks up there with the best facial moisturizers I’ve ever tried.

First, I love how my skin literally drinks it in. When I apply the lotion after exfoliating, better shield your eyes because my skin is positively luminescent. It also does an excellent job of keeping the greasies at bay - so if your face is on the shinier side, I would absolutely recommend this lotion. And in the few weeks that I’ve been using it, I have noticed an improvement in my skin’s firmness and tone. I’m not the best at using skin treatments consistently – I’m forgetful and easily distracted. But I never leave the house without moisturizer, so I love that this one has multiple benefits.

There’s just one caveat. Skin Genesis Daily Moisturizer Oil-Free Lotion doesn’t contain sunscreen. It just seems a little odd that a product aims to prevent and reverse signs of aging, yet doesn’t offer sun protection.

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Weekender

Tis the for weekend getaways. But when you're packing for your summer sojourn, remember that you're going aways a weekend, not a lifetime. Yours truly has a penchant for overpacking... and as a repeat offender, I've picked up a few tips over the years. Here are a few to help lighten your load and travel like a pro:

* Don't choose a big bag for a trip that will only last a few short days. If you pick one that's too large, you'll be tempted to fill it up. Instead, select a small to mid-sized overnight bag and edit your list of trip essentials.

* Weekend getaways are all about breaking routines and doing something different and fun. When you think of your trip in these terms, you'll see that it's not necessary to bring all of the beauty products you typically use on a daily basis.

* When packing, consider your destination, the weather forecast, your planned activities, and the outfits that you'll be wearing. These factors will help to guide your beauty products choices.

* When it comes to products, think compact and efficient.

Today is day six of Spoiled Pretty's In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week. And - boy oh BOYY - do I have the bag for you!


The BOYY Pablo Summer Weekender is so chic that it makes you wanna schedule a trip every weekend, just so that you have more opportunities to show it off. The bag features a sand stripe linen body, whiskey leather box compartment and trim, waterproof lining, adjustable matching handles and shoulder strap, one inner zip pocket and two pouches. And the hand-painted dust bag can also be used as a tote!

One lucky winner will receive the Summer Weekender, filled with the following essentials:


Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.


Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.


Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: These sheets absorb oil from the skin, effectively reducing shine - but without disrupting your makeup. They come in a slim, pop-up package for convenient access.


Clean & Clear SOFT In-Shower Facial: Provides a deep cleansing treatment to detoxify, smooth and soften young skin. The In-Shower Facial treatment is applied to skin while steam produced by the hot water allows the ingredients to deep cleanse pores while infusing moisture into the skin. The product is left on skin for one minute, then gently massaged into skin to exfoliate dead skin cells and extract impurities from pores. Skin is left feeling smooth and soft after just one minute.


Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes: These gentle, ultra soft cloths contain superior cleansing technology so effective it removes even waterproof mascara. With one step, it effectively dissolves all traces of dirt, oil and make-up. And it's gentle enough to use around the sensitive eye area, even for contact lens wearers.


Ojon mini TUNU Flexible Finishing Hairspray: This one-of-a-kind flexible hold finishing spray is formulated to add incredible fullness, control, and shine with a hold that allows the hair to still move naturally. It contains 100% pure wildcrafted Ojon oil, supported by clinical studies to instantly strengthen, hydrate and restore a healthy look and feel to dry, damaged hair. Plus a unique UV-inhibiting antioxidant complex stays in the hair to help protect color longer.


Tarte Lips Ahoy Lipgloss Set: For healthy, chic, on-the-go beauty, Lips Ahoy is the perfect little treasure. Packaged in a nautical pouch, these 4 mini double-ended, t5™ super fruit infused lipglosses with a water resistant formula leave you ready for smooth sailing!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "BOYY Weekender Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Friday, July 4th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Saturday, July 5th, I'll announce the winner. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Clutch

On a summer night, you don’t want to be schlepping a heavy handbag. A clutch is the perfect accessory to carry your beauty booty. But with a smaller bag, you must be careful not to cram. Your cell, keys, wallet and other basic necessities will take up a majority of your clutch’s empty space. So you need to be efficient with the cosmetics you add to your bag. What to carry in the clutch? Travel sized tools and multi-purpose products, of course!

It’s Friday. Thank heavens for that, right? And you know what that means - day five of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week!!! Spoiled Pretty is giving away Felix Rey’s deliciously chic Michelle Clutch. This bag is the ideal combination of elegant and earthy. It is crafted of oven straw with mirrored-leather bow detail and has a magnetic-snap closure front flap. And leave it to Felix Rey to put a surprise inside…the interior is lined in leopard print fabric! The bag also features a detachable wrist strap.


One reader will receive the Michelle Clutch, chock full of the following:

Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: My holy grail mascara gives you a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look.

Tarte Lock & Roll Creaseless Eyeshadow Duo: Say goodbye to cream shadows that crease & smudge. Whether it’s a hot day or you’re on a steamy date, this waterproof-shadow is sure to last! We’ve brought you one of our favorite makeup artist tricks for creaseproof cream shadow—two simple steps in one little wand.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: These sheets soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind a residue. Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day.

Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Felix Rey Clutch Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Thursday, July 3rd. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Friday, July 4th, I’m going to make some lucky lady’s Independence Day by proclaiming her the winner! Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Eco-Friendly Bag

Just because you care about the earth doesn’t mean that you should neglect your appearance. I am a firm believer that being an eco-friendly fashionista isn’t an oxymoron.

Take, for example, Elezar handbags. This summer, Elezar is expanding its collection of handbags to include a new vegan line, Vivi. Vivi bags match the beauty, sophistication and functionality of Elezar’s leather collection while providing stylish women with another fabulous form of expression. Vivi’s lush Ecouture materials mirror the luxury provided by Elezar’s leather bags, but is made from a unique, high-end biodegradable material found in Italy. The look and feel is not only luxurious, but the great functional shapes with a slight edge exude passion – from the old world feel of weaved fencing to the modern day ultra-chic chain handles. Elezar bags keep you organized, polished and always chic.


Today is day four of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week. So all of you haute hippies out there, here’s your chance to get spoiled pretty. Elezar’s Vivi Barrel Bag (which retails for $375) will be filled with the following summer essentials:


Burt's Bees Chemical-Free Sunscreen SPF 15: This non-greasy formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and helps keep skin hydrated without using chemical sunscreen actives like octinoxate and oxybenzone. Instead, titanium dioxide, a naturally-occuring mineral creates a micro-fine barrier on your skin to reflect the sun's harmful rays. The natural sunscreen is effective immediately upon application and safe for kids.


Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Soother: Help overexposed skin chill out with this intensely hydrating, quick-absorbing face and body lotion. It’s packed with natural aloe vera and linden extract to soothe. Coconut oil, bee pollen and glycerin nourish your skin and help replenish its natural moisture. Your sun-kissed skin will feel revived, soft and healthy, naturally.


Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30+: This broad spectrum sun lotion is formulated to give extra protection against sun exposure. Suitable for all skin types.


Jurlique Citrus Silk Finishing Powder: A silky translucent facial powder that refines the complexion and helps absorb excess facial oil to reduce shine. Leaves the skin fresh and radiant.


Jurlique Citrus Purifying Mist: This clarifying mist is infused with the living energy of witch hazel and marshmallow combined with essential oils of tangerine and lemon to enliven and purify. Leaves the skin hydrated and refreshed. Ideal for rebalancing summer-induced oiliness.


Tarte Double Dose Berry Boost & Gloss in acai boost, acerola rush, go go goji, and pomegranate punch: Get a double dose of beauty and treatment. The inner berry boost is a t5 super fruit complex™ concentrated pigment that mixes with the outer high shine gloss. The result is a rich color that helps rejuvenate your lips. The formula is infused with vitamin C, peppermint oil, and shea butter – and is paraben-free, mineral-oil free, and phthalate free. With the purchase of every gloss, you’ll be helping to preserve the Amazon Rainforest through forest conservation, improved living conditions and educational opportunities for communities in Brazil. Tarte supports Sambazon’s Sustainable Acai Project (SAP), a member of the Organic Trade Association and the Fair Trade Federation.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Elezar Handbag Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, July 2nd. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, July 3rd, 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.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Everyday Bag

The average weight of the contents of a woman’s purse has skyrocketed over the past five years. Exactly how much does the typical gal lug around? More than five pounds of crap – that’s how much! Researchers predict that by 2018, the average handbag will weigh more than 6.6 pounds. High-tech gadgets have been blamed for the 38 percent increase…but lets be real, ladies. Those eight lip products add up.

If you’re anything like me, your purse is chock-full of nonsense…old shopping receipts, gum wrappers, enough Starbucks napkins to last a lifetime, and seven dollars in coins lining the bottom of the bag. I’m not going to be a hypocrite and tell you to throw that mess out. But I do have some suggestions for how you can pare down your beauty stash this summer, and lighten your load by at least a couple of ounces. Summer heat is oppressive enough…and let’s face it – Scoliosis isn’t sexy.

* Instead of tossing your regular hairbrush and comb into your purse, opt for a purse-sized set. But make sure that you invest in quality products…I don’t know about you, but those “nifty” pop-up purse brushes never work for me. And if it doesn’t work, you might as well not carry it. Right?

* Palettes and multi-purpose products are great options…they offer innumerable options without sacrificing space.

* If you’re prone to t-zone oiliness, you could carry around a translucent powder compact. But powder tends to cake in the heat, so you’re better off carrying some blotting papers. Plus you’ll shed some weight.

Today is day three of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week, and to get you over the hump, I'm spoiling you pretty with this handbag from Creations By Kage.


The "Stormy" tote is, in two words, effortlessly sumptuous. The bag is like buttah - all Kage creations are made of the finest Italian leathers. The line is geared towards the girl with very sophisticated taste who wants a really unique bag made of finest materials and the highest quality, but doesn't necessarily have to own a "name" brand. Designer Kristin Holstein says her bags have a certain elegance to them, as they are clean in design, with simple pleats and the Kage signature horseshoe detail. "The symbol of the horseshoe means so much to me. Not only does it represent good luck, but it reminds me of my mother and her love of horses. They constantly give me inspiration, and will always be a significant theme in my design process."

For the winner, this bag will be accompanied by the following goodies:


Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: Get a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look. This happens to be my Holy Grail mascara.

Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.

Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.

Tarte Infinite Glow Bestsellers Palette: Get a natural, radiant glow with this chic palette that has everything you need to tan, glow and pout in minutes flat! This bestsellers palette includes Park Ave Princess Mineral Powder Bronzer, award-winning Gel Cheek Stain in Tipsy and a moisturizing 24.7 Lip Sheer in a new shade May Flowers. This luxe faux-croc, compact with mirror is perfect for on-the-go application!

MAX Factor Vivid Impact Eyeshadow Duos in Domino Effect, Emerald Coast, and Peach Basket: Sweep on these loose powder eye shadows for a subtle shimmer or lay it on thick for a metallic effect. The couture-color combinations let you create vibrant shadow effects with the brilliant artistry of a pro.

DentaBurst “Be Ready To Shine” Kit: DentaBurst Freshening Teeth Cleaners are an effective way to clean teeth and freshen breath on-the-go. Unlike mints or gum, they remove plaque from the surfaces of teeth, leaving them feeling smooth and clean. The kit contains 72 individually-wrapped Dentaburst, a business card case, and a calendar/planner.

RoC Retinol Correxion Hand Repair Cream SPF15: This revolutionary formula not only moisturizes but has been scientifically shown to fortify the outer layer of skin and is clinically shown to even out the look of discolorations and age spots for more youthful looking hands. In addition, its SPF 15 UVA/UVB sunscreen protects hands from damaging UVA rays that may contribute to skin damage and premature aging of the skin. Allure Magazine Best of Beauty winner.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: Oil-Absorbing Sheets soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind a residue. Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day.

Aveeno Essential Moisture Lip Conditioner SPF 15: This unique lip treatment provides essential long-lasting moisturization to help condition and protect dry, chapped lips. With an exclusive combination of natural oatmeal and natural skin conditioners, including jojoba oil and shea butter, it restores moisture and locks it in long after applying. It contains UVA/UVB sunscreens to protect lips from the sun and is good for daily use.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Creations By Kage Handbag Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Tuesday, July 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, July 2nd, 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.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Gym Bag

If you read my last post, you know that, this afternoon, I took a trip to TJ Maxx. What you probably don't know is that I went there on a mission to find new athletic attire.

You see, I recently joined a gym. After a long hiatus, I'm back on the scene - and I have to admit that I'm feeling a little zafdig next to all of the resident hard bodies. So until I slim and trim my body, I've resorted to hiding underneath some sporty outfits. Trying on the gear was a workout in and of itself cuz I'm majorly sore from my personal training sesh yesterday. But I found some cute separates, so I'm ready to head back tomorrow.

What I didn't need to buy, however, was a stylish gym bag. More on that in a minute...

So what are the necessities for your gym bag this summer? Obviously, you'll want to pack items like a towel and an mp3 player. But I also recommend that you also include a few key beauty essentials...so that, post-gym, you won't have to take your sweaty, smelly self straight home. Give your credit card a little workout and stock up on the following:

* If your hair is normal to oily, I'd recommend taking along travel-sized shampoo and conditioner. If your hair is dry/damaged/color-treated, then you might want to carry a dry shampoo or a product that revives your style.

* If you shower at the gym, you'll need some sort body wash and facial cleanser. Many gyms have those basic amenities. But if you're reading this, you're a beauty junkie...and you don't want no generic toiletries. You're better off bringing along some deep-cleaning products that will clear your pores of dirt, oil, and sweat.

* Odor may be a sign of an effective workout, but I think you'll agree that it's far from fetching. Deodorant is a no brainer. No?

*Spritzing on a light, fresh fragrance is also a nice precautionary measure - especially if you forgo a splish splash in the gym shower.

* A reusable water bottle is an excellent idea. I advocate aluminum (like those from SIGG) over plastic. But whatever you choose - you might want to pour your agua into a cup. Recent reports have shown that quenching your thirst straight from the bottle leads to "water bottle lips" - which are fine wrinkles around the mouth. Quel horror!

Today is day two of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week, so I'm spoiling you pretty with this lovely Lug gym bag.


The Puddle Jumper Gym Bag was featured on Oprahs "O List" and is a must-have for any active individual. Stuff it solid with items galore! From your ipod, glasses, pens, papers, clothing, bottles, cosmetics, etc., even throw your stinky sneakers in the back separated ventilated pocket! This bag represents functionality at its best while not compromising your sense of style!

For the winner, this bag will be accompanied by the following goodies:


Ojon Revitalizing Mist: This alcohol-free, leave-in conditioner detangles, refreshes and reactivate your style without washing. With a revitalizing fragrance, it neutralizes odor as it moisturizes and preps the hair for restyling. It's also a great moisturizer for the skin!


Neutrogena Rainbath Shower & Shave: As a body wash, this fresh, marine-scented gel is enriched with ingredients that clean and moisturize your skin without leaving behind a heavy residue. As a shave gel, the silky lubrication helps your razor glide smoothly over your skin while soothing aloe helps prevent dryness and irritation. This clean-rinsing formula won't build up on your razor—or your skin.


Clean & Clear Deep Action Refreshing Gel Cleanser: The icy gel turns into a foaming lather that instantly cools and invigorates your skin as it dissolves dirt and oil trapped deep in your pores.
After washing, it leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revived, with the unmistakable tingle of a really deep clean. Completely oil-free, rinses clean, and won't clog pores.


Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: Softer than paper, these silky sheets leave your skin feeling refreshed by instantly removing excess oil and shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind powder.


Bath & Body Works Body Splash in Enchanted Orchid: This lighter, casual fragrance is perfect for fragrance layering or enhancing the fragrance effect of previously applied products, such as body lotion. Notes include Calypso Orchid, Pink Grapefruit, Waterlily, Crisp Apple, Fresh Gardenia, Vanilla Orchid, Heliotrope, and Creamy Amber.


Goody Ouchless Detangling Comb: Flexible teeth slide through wet or dry hair without snags or pulls. Easy does it with this gentle approach to soft, manageable hair.


Secret Flawless Antiperspirant/Deodorant: Performs in more ways than any other anti-perspirant. It has strong protection, goes on clear, has self-renewing fragrances, it's smooth and lightweight, and has skin-nurturing conditioners.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Lug Gym Bag Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Monday, June 30th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Tuesday, July 1st, 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.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!