Is Your Skin Dehydrated? Take This Test...

Your skin is probably dehydrated... really dehydrated, actually. Your skin needs water, vitamins, and nutrients to retain that healthy, young, and glowing look, but how can you tell if it's dehydrated and if it is dehydrated, how do you fix it? Don't worry, we got you!

The snap, pinch, and pout test, created by Dr. Terry Loong, is a great way to check the hydration levels and elasticity of your skin, which decrease as we age. It's also a great way to tell if the products you're using are working as well as you would like them to.

Snap Test: Using you your thumb and forefinger, gently pinch the skin underneath your eyes.  Depending on how quickly it "snaps" back will indicate how hydrated and how much elasticity your skin has.

Pinch Test: "Pinch" the apples of your cheeks to feel how much collagen your skin has by seeing if there are fine lines on the surface of the skin when you pinch it.  If there are fine lines, your skin may be dehydrated or have reduced elasticity, which needs to be addressed through internal and external care to maintain youthful skin.   

Pout Test: "Pout" to check area around your mouth.  As you release the pout, you'll want to see if fine lines remain.  It is so important to apply an extra layer of skincare around your mouth, as we often wipe it off as we continue our skincare routines, after we brush our teeth or drink and eat food.

So you tested your skin and it's dehydrated. How do you fix it?

According to Dr. Terry Loong, "it is so important to keep skin properly hydrated to regulate oily and dry skin.  I recommend drinking at least 8 glasses per day to quench the thirst of your skin cells from the inside out. Topical hydration is also key to avoid transepidermal water loss from the inside out." She recommends the Body Shop Drops of Youth Concentrate and The Body Shop Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask to help keep skin healthy and flawless!

She also recommends a good amount of beauty sleep every night! "In terms of skin, sleep time is the golden time for skin renewal because the body is at rest and skin has more energy to regenerate itself and repair daytime damage."

The Next Big Thing: Express Facial Peels

Blowout bars, brow bars, makeup bars... aren't we lucky ladies? Having the convenience of quick, specialized services at affordable prices is a luxury we've been getting used to (at least here in NYC). There's a new bar in town that's perhaps the most exciting since the launch of DryBar – The Peel Bar by Dr. Neal Schultz.  The first of it's kind, you can get a 40% glycolic peel for under $40 in just two minutes.  Here's why it'll be the next big rage in beauty.

Dr. Neal Schultz, a NYC derm who is know for his peels, put it on the map. At home, you can try his Progressive Peel, but if your skin craves something a bit more intense, a professional peel is the way to go.  While I frequent my derm for them or even add one on to my facial, the time and money is always a factor.  At The Peel Bar, you can literally stop in, get a two minute glycolic peel (the same strength used at the derms office) for $39 and be on your way.  No wait time and it won't break the bank.

Of course, I analyzed the whole situation during my visit (the first of many) and am confident that with quality control this is a great idea that will quickly spread as fast as the Dry Bar.

You can book a glycolic peel at The Peel Bar at Butterfly Salon, which is located at 149 5th Ave., NYC.  They're being offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays by Dr. Schultz's medical staff.

Bridal Beauty Countdown: 1 Year

Get engaged over the holidays?  Congrats!  So many people I know did, but if you're not the one rocking the new bling this year, chances are you know someone who is. With less than five months until my wedding (yay!) all of my beauty ducks are in a row.  When I started planning, I spoke with some of my favorite beauty experts to map out my regimen.  Of course, it's only right I share it with you.  I'll be posting a series, but here's what you should be thinking about at one year.

Skin: Visit your dermatologist.  “Brides-to-be come to me all the time with concerns of getting that perfect glow for the day, clearing up any existing acne and evening out the skin tone/pigmentation,” explains Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz.  When it comes to skincare it’s best to begin addressing any concerns when you first get engaged so your dermatologist can put you on a plan. “I like patients to be on a routine specific to their skin type for at least two months, so they can clean up as much as possible, and then we can use some office-based procedures in conjunction,” says Dr. Lefkowicz.

Smile: If you’re looking to get any dental work done beyond whitening, now’s the time to go see your dentist or orthodontist.  “When women get engaged, they’re motivated to look their best for their wedding, and just like women wanting to get into shape, I see a lot of women wanting to straighten their teeth,” says Dr. Joseph Hung, a NYC-based orthodontist.  He recommends Invisalign, because the clear aligners effectively straighten teeth without impeding your social life.

Hair: Unwanted hair.  How nice would it be to not have to worry about hairy legs, underarms, bikini line (the list goes on) on your honeymoon? This is the time to consult with a dermatologist or laser specialist about laser hair removal services.

Makeup: Take a makeup class.  I thought about doing this, but instead asked for a makeup lesson during my makeup trial, which I booked early. Even if you don't plan on doing your makeup on your wedding day, you still want to make sure you really know what you're doing for all of the parties up to the it – engagement, bridal, bachelorette, rehearsal dinner, etc.

5 Favorites

I don't know where to start.  My whole regimen has taken a turn for the better lately and with each new launch and product mailing I'm falling in love all over again with the latest lotions and potions.  Allow me to present my five favorites of the moment.  You can thank me later!

Rodial Glam Balm Multi, $59, has been a staple in my bag.  I've been traveling a ton lately and this non-greasy balm is loaded with stem cells so it has plumping benefits and is super moisturizing.  You can use it as a day or night cream on your face for extra hydration, on your hands, cuticles, lips, elbows.  The options are endless.

StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Eye Treatment, $75, has my favorite anti-aging key word, retinol, as it's main ingredient.  My biggest paranoia lately has been fine lines on the sides of and underneath my eyes.  They make me look old and tired!  I trust StriVectin and the combination of Retinol and Niacin is a perfect blend to help diminish them quickly.

Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder, $45, offers lightweight coverage in a variety of shades.  I'm not one to wear foundation daily, but when I go on TV, it becomes my best friend.  Hello HD!  This powder blends seamlessly into my skin without feeling caky.  Plus, it's easy to carry around for last minute touch ups.

Toni & Guy Volume Plumping Mousse, $14.99, puts an end to the search.  The search for volume that is.  The famed UK brand just landed state side and after trying a variety of their products, I couldn't be happier.  Since my strands live for mousse, this is by far my favorite product in the line.  It's lightweight and not only offers volume, but it also gives bounce.  That's the difference.  Who doesn't want bounce?

 Gelish Mini Soak Off Gel Polish, $10 ea., come in a variety of fashion forward shades for fall.  My favorite being 'A Touch of Sass' and soak off easily without ruining your own nails.  Hey, a girl needs a gel mani every once in a while!

Tan Skin is Damaged Skin, The Shocking Truth that I Swear By & You Should Too

Tan skin is damaged skin.  There's almost nothing I crave more than a "healthy" bronzed glow.  Especially during this time of year.  The way I used to feel, warm and relaxed inside the tanning bed day after day throughout college... those days are long gone.  Tan skin is damaged skin.  Damaged.  I can't stress it enough and feel many people hear it but don't actually comprehend it.  The "it won't happen to me" mentality is far too common.  But guess what, it will. As a BeautySweetSpot reader, you know how passionate I am about skin cancer awareness.  Last year's "Confessions of A Former Tanorexic" blog post lead to a Good Morning America feature and much more.  This week, as I prepare to vacation in Puerto Rico with my fiance, I'll be getting spray tanned before we go and of course, taking all precautions to practice safe sun while there.

“Skin cancer isn’t formed from just severe burns, continual tanning can play a role as well,” advises Dr. Marina Peredo.  Trust me, and if you don't believe me, trust the dermatologist.  Especially as the weather warms up and you begin to desire some color, remember tanned skin is damaged skin.  If you are at a higher risk for skin cancers, Dr. Peredo recommends her patients receive a full body check every six months to monitor any suspicious spots.

Oscar Beauty Must-Haves: What the Pros Used

After being glued to red carpet coverage and speaking with publicists, makeup artists and hairstylists all day yesterday, I am beyond over the Oscars!  Truth.  However, there's so much to talk about.  Here's a round up of some of the beauty loot the pros used on celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Hudson, Adele and more before they hit the carpet.  Believe it or not, a lot of it is from the drugstore!

For an added shine boost, Jennifer Hudson's stylist, Kiyah Wright used Clairol Professional Jazzing in Coffee Bean, let it sit for five minutes and washed it out before shampooing.

To enhance her spray tan (which she got the day before the Oscars) Salma Hayek's makeup artist, Jo Strettell, applied St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus Firming Body Lotion to her body before she hit the red carpet.

To mimic her soft pink dress, Anne Hathaway's manicurist, Tom Bachik, first used L'Oréal Paris’ new limited-editionVersailles Romance Colour Riche Nail Collection (coming out in March) called "The Palace Life."  Then added a personal touch by painting her grandmother's initials on her ring fingers.

To get just the right amount of smolder, Stacy Keibler's makeup artist, Matthew VanLeeuwen glided and smudged Elizabeth Arden's Beautiful Color Smoky Eyes Pencil in Smoky across her lids.

To straighten her hair without it falling flat, Kerry Washington's stylist, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew used Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse on her damp strands before blowdrying.

To leave a little bit of sheen on her skin, Jenna Dewan-Tatum's makeup artist, Kayleen McAdams, used Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil on her body.

To ensure bounciness in Adele's bouffant, her stylist Michael Ashton finished her look John Frieda Luxurious Volume All-Day Hold Hairspray.

For a lasting style with texture, Jennifer Aniston's stylist, Chris McMillan, used Living Proof's Prime Style Extender, which also allowed for touchable hair.

To protect her hair and extensions from the heat of the curling iron, Jessica Chastain's stylist, Renato Campora, spritzed it with Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Heat Protectant & Shine Spray.

On her lashes, Charlize Theron's makeup artist, Pati Dubroff, used Diorshow Mascara in #090 Catwalk Black.

Introducing My New Intern, Plus the 3 Products She Can't Live Without

A little help goes a long way, especially when you're an entrepreneur and feel the need to be in five places at once.  Often times I hire interns to help me be in two places at once (well, kind of...) and help organize my projects like SJP did with J Hud in SATC.  That being said, I'm excited to introduce you to my spring intern, Stephanie.  I'll admit, like my former intern Emily, I was a little partial when it came to hiring her.  She's a senior at Wagner College in Staten Island, NY (where I went), English major (just like I was) and journalism minor (just like I was).  Without further ado, I'll allow Steph to introduce her three must have beauty products so you can get to know her a bit better. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzing Powder

This bronzer is my absolute favorite. While it's matte, it still gives you a luminous look. With real cocoa as a main ingredient, it smells like powdered hot chocolate and gives you a natural post-Bahamas trip glow. It never gives me a “muddy” look so I never have to worry about looking like the tanning mom. The color's buildable so looks great on all skin tones and can be worn through all seasons. The best part: a little goes a long way so I usually only have to purchase a new one once a year.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture - Combination Skin

I have textbook combination skin: kind of oily in the T-zone area with occasionally dry cheeks. My skin also happens to be really sensitive so I look for anything that says “alcohol-free” and “fragrance-free.” This moisturizer is super lightweight so I use it before bed and under my makeup for a perfect base. It controls the shine in my T-zone and hydrates the dryer parts and leaves my face really smooth. One pump is more than enough to cover your entire face and neck. 

KMS California Hair Play Sea Salt Spray

This is my go-to summer product on the days when it's just too hot to even think about putting a blow dryer on. I even use it in the winter to give my hair a break from the straightener and curling iron. Even though my hair is naturally pretty wavy, this sea salt spray gives it that extra boost. I simply spray a little in my towel-dried hair and let it air dry. It gives me the perfect Colbie Caillat, tousled, beach waves without drying my hair out.

The Benefits of Being A "Well-Groomed" Man, Plus New Product Suggestions for Your Man

Recently, I came across a Schick Skin-dex survey that stated well-groomed men are more confident, twice as likely to be employed and have twice as much sex, which didn't surprise me.  I mean, did you see Ben Affleck at the SAG awards?  I'm a huge fan of "formal facial hair" and Damian Lewis's messy, done yet undone hair worked well with his modern, black Burberry tux.  Well groomed?  I'd say so.  Here's the latest crop of men's grooming products that survived Joe's test, who, may I add, is super handsome. Mario Badescu Peppermint Shaving Cream, the slight tingling and cooling sensation the mint was something Joe was drawn to.  It also has a light, whipped texture allowing for a clean, moisturized shave. Axe Apollo 2 in 1 Shampoo & Conditioner, I'll never get it, but men love the combination of shampoo and conditioner and when Joe saw the new AXE Apollo collection included one it became his go-to.  

Sexy Hair Short Sexy Hair Slept In Texture Creme, the light texture of this pomade helps keep hairs in place without leaving them looking too sticky or waxy helping Joe achieve an undone, done look.

Life Outside the Tents as A NYFW VIP: Lounges, Swag Suites & Dinner Parties

When you think of Fashion Week you may think of the backstage scene that I've been tweeting about all week, or the runway shows themselves, but truth is, there's so much more when you're a NYFW VIP.  Since all editors, bloggers and influencers end up in NYC for the shows with the same goals, brands take full advantage and host dinner parties, pampering lounges and after parties all for a little face time.  Here's some of my fashion week extracurriculars... I know, it looks like a lot of work (wink).

Birchbox Lounge

Set up conveniently across from Milk Studios where a variety of shows took place this season, I popped in before attending Christian Siriano near by on Saturday.  First things first, I got down to business by creating my own Birchbox.  Next, I indulged in a little pampering with a mani (shade: Color Club in Status Update), grabbed a snack from WichCraft and caught up with some friends.

Style Coalition Lounge

I popped in the Style Coalition Lounge at the Empire Hotel before going backstage to Zac Posen on Sunday night to catch up with my friend Yuli, who runs the organization. They partnered with Microsoft and my fave stylist, Ted Gibson.  The best part?  It was exclusive so there weren't a thousand people running around and it really was a break from the hustle and bustle.  While there, I had my hair touched up by Ted Gibson's stylists and left looking glam!

Dinner with NARS

Each season NARS rents out parts of restaurants in the West Village and throws a dinner party.  This is what I was most excited for this season.  Between all the running around and waving hello to friends backstage I got to catch up with my media friends over wine, cheese plates and chocolate covered strawberries in the garden of Palma.

Allure Beauty Lounge

After going backstage to interview Reem Acra before her show (see post here), I headed to the Empire Hotel to stop by a few suites.  Allure had SkinMedica preforming facials, Maybelline giving makeup touch ups and manis and a whole fragrance bar set up with samples from different brands along with Sephora pulled up on iPads for easy purchasing.  Smart.  I would have loved a SkinMedica facial, but my makeup was set for the day and I didn't have the time.

Clarins Lounge

The brand just launched their Beauty Flash Blog so I was eager to see my PR friends and learn more about it.  The Courtin-Clarins girls were there (the granddaughters of the founder of Clarins) so I filmed a video interview with them, which will be live soon!  I'm so glad they're getting involved with the brand.  They're super chic and approchable.  Other editors were getting makeup touch ups and mini massages in the suite as well.

Everything You Need to Know About Sunscreen Including the New FDA Regulations

I'm completely obsessed with knowing everything there is to know about my skin, aging, sun damage and SPF.  My derm, Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz, can back me up on that as I'm constantly picking her brain and bugging her for more and more info.  My days basking the sunshine are over and I now understand everything there is to know about protection  – sun protection to ensure I don't age any quicker and never welcome skin cancer.  Of course, I had to share her knowledge with you, because it's beyond interesting and helpful. Incidental sun exposure received during everyday activities accounts for approximately 80% of an individual’s lifetime exposure," states Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz.  "Therefore, I always recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis in order to help prevent skin cancer and aging."

When shopping for SPF you want to look for three things:

• Broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays)
• Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or greater
• Water resistance

Broad spectrum is super important (UVA and UVB coverage) because the different types of rays do different types of damage that can both lead to skin cancer.  UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots and can pass through window glass.  UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and are blocked by window glass.

"Because most people don’t apply sunscreen the way they are supposed to (most apply less than 1/4 of the amount they should, , I always advise my patients to use a higher SPF," Dr. Lefkowicz comments.  The proper dosage is about a shot glass full, or an ounce, to cover your entire body.

To break it down, Lefkowicz explains that SPF not only indicates how much longer protected skin can resist getting red than unprotected skin, but also what percentage of UV rays are screened.  An SPF 15 screens 93% of UV rays whereas an SPF 50 protects against 98% UV rays.  Her thoughts on an SPF 100?  Well, doubtful it can do much better than 50.

Beginning in 2013, you’ll see several changes to sunscreen labels required by the FDA.

• For a sunscreen to carry the claim that it can prevent skin cancer and sunburn, it must offer both: 1) broad-spectrum coverage 2) an SPF of 15 or higher.

• The FDA will ban companies from claiming that a sunscreen is “waterproof” or “sweat proof.” This is simply not possible. You’ll now see the term “water resistant.” The label also must state how long the water resistance lasts, either 40 or 80 minutes.

Confessions of A Former Tanning Bed Addict in Honor of Melanoma Monday

Yep, that's me in the pic above.  As a former tanning bed addict, I cannot stress enough how important it is to protect your skin from the sun.  Before my first job at Cosmopolitan I laid in a tanning bed every single day.  Everyday for years.  My job in the beauty department probably saved my life.  Now, I'm still practicing what I preach, because it's no joke – it's a life or death situation.  As a matter of fact, according to the AAD, one person dies of melanoma every hour in the US.  Shocking?  Read on, because as a former addict, if you're still baking, I get it, but it's time to get it through your head.  Better late than never.  Here's my story... Not only is Melanoma the most serious type of skin cancer, but believe it or not, it will account for more than 75,000 cases of skin cancer this year.  Not me.  Not this year, or ever.  Can you say that?  For me it started with junior proms, I along with all of my friends would go tanning the week before prom.  I wouldn't do it again until the senior prom, but it really got bad in college.  I went to school on Staten Island and having a dark tan was part of my look.  I'm not talking about a healthy glow, I'm talking about having skin the shade of burnt toast that constantly smelled baked.  Yes, I thought it was attractive and was never dark enough.  I was addicted.

I didn't need to wear as much makeup as my skin looked better, my black eyeliner popped against the whites of my eyes and my smile always looked white too.  On top of that I appeared more toned, skinnier.  The perks of being tan seemed to outweigh any risks that may come later.  After all, I always thought I was invincible.  Until I landed my dream job as the Beauty Assistant for Cosmopolitan magazine.

I was told by the department I couldn't tan any longer if I was going to work there as it's an oxymoron for beauty writers to go tanning.  Cosmo was all about safe sun, SPF 15 or higher and they just launched a campaign against indoor tanning.  I quit cold turkey and it sucked.  I felt ugly and fat.  Immediately!  Of course I had a plethora of self tanners at my finger tips to test out, but it wasn't the same. I missed the bake and burnt color I would get from the beds.  Nothing compared.  However, the more invested and passionate I became about my job, the more I began to face the facts and wanted to practice what I preached.

Today, I'm an avid SPF 30 wearer and preach, preach, preach.  I can't believe tanning beds are still in existence and go to my derm for yearly skin checks to make sure I'm safe.  I'm obsessed with self tanners and can't believe I thought what I was doing looked attractive.  I looked like a raisin!  While I have been lucky so far, I am paying for my sun damage in other ways – hyperpigmentation and crows feet.  My skin looks older than I am so thank God for great products, because the situation I'm dealing with at 29 is not cool.

I'll leave you with the new FDA guidelines for SPF.  Next time you think about spritzing tanning oil all over yourself and baking in the sun, think about the facts.  Like me, you're not invincible.

Dissecting the Perfect Skin Care Dose

How often do you squeeze out your face wash or moisturizer and end up using just a bit too much, or way too much?  I normally just judge by what feels right, but truth is there is a formula and overuse can cause irritating side effects where as underuse can make your products seem like they're not effective.  I'm really impressed by a new Clearasil product that embraces technology to give you the perfect dose of face wash and spoke with Dr. Dendy Engelman to find out just how much of our skincare products we should be using. Clearasil's PerfectaWash distributes the perfect dose of salicylic acid face wash for each use so it takes out the guess work. When it comes to treating acne or using a face wash with salicylic acid in it, over use is the biggest problem.  But when you use too much, you dry out your skin causing it to produce more oil and therefore, more breakouts.  That's why dosage control is imperative.  All you do is run your hand under the dispenser and it acts like an automatic sink by distributing the perfect dose of face wash.  Genius!  You can get it now on Amazon and check out their FB page for other offers.  It launches in drugstores in a few months.

When it comes to the rest of your skin care, here's a break down of how much you should be using:

• Serum - four drops
• Eye cream - an orange seed sized amount between both eyes
• Moisturizer - a grape sized amount depending on how oily your skin is
• Retin A -  a green pea sized amount and dot it all over your face before rubbing it in
• Daily SPF for face - a grape sized amount if it's not included in your moisturizer

The Product that Transformed My Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross' Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel

When I rave about a beauty product I really love it.  Everyday I get sent about twelve bags of beauty loot and about 100 emails from beauty PR firms introducing me to new products that are hitting the market so I can test them out and keep them in mind for upcoming blog posts and freelance work.  Well, when I find something that wow's me, I let you know right away. Hence, this blog post on Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel that has changed my skin care regimen for life. Last month I attended an event at Dr. Dennis Gross' office and was introduced to a few new products.  Since then, I've been using his Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel Pads every day after I cleanse each morning and swear to you that I constantly look like I just got a facial.  Now that's a strong testimonial.

It's a two-step alpha hydroxy acid treatment that works as an at-home facial peel to help exfoliate your skin and improves texture and overall appearance over time.  Now it's been just over a month that I've incorporated the towelettes into my morning skincare routine and I've noticed any winter dullness is gone, smaller pores and overall a brighter, more refreshed complexion.  I did not get any irritation or redness from this daily peel, but if you think you may, I'd recommend using it every other day or trying his original Alpha Beta Peel first.

After cleansing, you simply rub one towelette across your face in a circular motion (for exfoliating purposes) until it's dry.  I normally do it about three times.  Then, wait two minutes and do the same with the second towelette to neutralize the ingredients in the first.  Once finished, apply your serums and moisturizers as you normally do and watch what happens.

New App Detects Skin Cancer, Does It Really Work?

Earlier this month I received an email from a publicist about SpotCheck, a new application available on iTunes and invented by Dr. Bobby Buka that allows you to upload an image of a potentially dangerous mole with your smartphone, send it into a board of dermatologists for review with no co-pay.  Sounds genius right?  Of course, but as a skeptical journalist I spoke with Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz to get another opinion before you spend the $4.99 submitting a photo. "While this sounds like a wonderful app for those who can't get in to see a derm or who can't afford it, I have many issues with it," remarks Dr. Lefkowicz.

Top Concerns:

1. The quality of the photo

If a user logs onto the website, they'll see photo instructions that advise to choose a room with lots of light, not to zoom in on the mole and not to use flash.  However, I doubt most users would log on to review the tutorial.  "I would not feel comfortable making a diagnosis based on a picture taken by an ameteur," Dr. Lefkowicz comments.  The FDA recently approved of Melafind after years of research, which is a hand held scanner and computer program that dermatologists are using in office now to analyze images of moles.  This app doesn't compare.

2. History matters

"When diagnosing a skin lesion I need to know the whole story when forming conclusions," states Dr. Lefkowicz.  While SpotCheck doesn't actually diagnose, it does let you know if your mole is potentially dangerous and recommend whether or not you visit a derm.

3. It's not always cancer

When being told by an app that you have a potentially dangerous mole, you're automatically going to think the worst – melanoma?  However, that may not be the case. It's important for dermatologists to perform a full body scan, because often times many people have several abnormal moles, which is OK.  "It's comforting when I see a patient has more than one abnormal lesion," comments Dr. Lefkowitz.  "Even though they may appear suspicious, it's typical and they don't always have to come off."

As I suspected, the app is beneficial for those who don't regularly visit a derm or those who are on a budget.  I can only hope that those who are using it are sending in clear enough photos and taking action by following up with an in office visit if they get a negative response.  In the end, when it comes to potentially life threatening moles, the choice is yours.  Ask yourself... is relying on your smart phone worth it?

3 Grooming Commandments from Hollywood's Leading Male Primper

While Hollywood's leading ladies have a whole glam squad on hand for any red carpet event, the men are known for their long term monogamous relationships with their groomers.  Last week I had the chance to grab a cup of tea with the one trusted groomer to all of the funny guys, Cheri Keating.  I'm talking men like Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill... and oh yea, she also primps one of Hollywood's finest, Robert Pattison.  She gave me the three top grooming commandments your boyfriend should follow to make sure his image is always on point.

1. He Shall Have Matte Skin

"Whether men are on camera or not, no man wants their skin to look dewey," Keating remarked.  She uses Lab Series Oil Control Daily Hydrator on Jonah Hill and some of her other clients before touching up their makeup for films.  "I like it because there's no break through shine."  While some men act like they don't care about skincare, if you introduce your man to a mattifying moisturizer and compliment his lack of shine, he'll thank you (and continue using it).

2. He Shall Maintain His Sprouting Hairs

The best way to prolong a haircut is to help him do at-home shape ups.  "His image can really be bumped up by simply removing the hair around his neck," Keating said.  Is your man 30 or older?  Be on the lookout! Keating wouldn't tell me which clients she does this for (to spare them embarrassment), but he has to start ridding random ear, nose and brow hairs.  You don't have to remove them, but you may have to kindly point them out.  It's all about maintenance.

3. He Shall Shop Sophisticatedly (and Tailor)

Even the funny guys mature.  Seth Rogen started his career wearing baggy jeans and a t-shirt on the red carpet and landing summer time comedys and since he's tightened his image and his suits, he's being cast in fall indie dramas.  Of course, this change is about his total image, but his clothing alone gives off a different message.  "Every man should own well cut T's and perfect fitting pair of jeans," Keating commented.  I agree.  Any man can wear a suit, but a well tailored suit gives off the message of sophistication.

2011 Emmys Best of Beauty

I love awards shows, but the Emmys holds a special place in my heart because my very first national TV segment was two years ago on the E! red carpet live from the Emmys breaking down how the A-listers prepped for the red carpet.  Now, I'm bringing you the BeautySweetSpot Emmy Beauty Awards – the top 5 looks and how to get 'em Christina Hendrix

I give props to any red head who can pull off a daring shade of red lipstick.  As soon as I saw her on the red carpet, I knew she'd be my favorite look of the night.  Makeup artist, Vanessa Scali used Dior Beauty to create an "effortless chic" look.  Her champagne eyes were complimented by siren red, Rouge Dior Lipcolor in Blazing Red #638.

Nina Dobrev

The Vampire Diaries actress looked stunning in Donna Karan, but I loved 40's inspired her hair done by Andy Lecompte of Wella Professionals.  A dramatic side part is key to this retro look.  He curled her hair in 2" sections with a 1" barrel iron and used a dollop of Wella Professionals Pearl Styler to keep it in place.  Bobby pins kept loose strands over one shoulder for the night.

Sofia Vergara

She's so sexy she never fails to impress.  I love how her lipstick matched her dress and her lashes were like wow!  Makeup artist, Kayleen McAdams used CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara in Very Black with Liquiline Eyeliner in Black Fire along the top of her lashes to create definition.  On her lips, McAdams used LipPerfection Lipcolor in Rapture #280.

Julianna Margulies

While I wasn't crazy about her Armani Prive grown, I did love her coif. Inspired by old Hollywood, stylist, Matthew Monzon worked his magic by first creating tons of volume with Lenor Greyl's Mousse au Lotus Volumatrice,  blow drying with a 2" round brush and then setting with velcro rollers.  A deep part was key to the retro feel and using a 1 1/2" barrel curling iron, Monzon curled the bottom sections in rotating directions.  To hold, he used Lenor Greyl's Laque Souple Light Styling Spray.

Olivia Munn

"We were channeling Olivia's inner 1940's siren," commented her makeup artist, Uzo for NARS.  I like how Olivia looked like a more glamorous version of herself for the red carpet.  Highlighted skin, filled in brows and a pretty lip was all it took to get her ready for the big day. The key product – NARS Orgasm Illuminator.  It took three lip products to achieve this feminine, flirty lip all by NARS: Rosebud Lip Liner Pencil, Montego Bay Pure Matte Lipstick and Piree Larger Than Life Lip Gloss (new for fall).