My WPIX Segment: Holiday Beauty Bargain Buys

This morning I did a segment on WPIX on Holiday Beauty Bargain Buys. One of the great things about holiday shopping is that not only are we in the holiday spirit, but so are beauty brands and retailers.  They're packaging some of their best selling items into affordable giftables so you can give without breaking the bank.  It doesn't hurt to pick up some beauty loot for yourself either while the deals are going on!  Check out the segment here and shopping guide after the jump.Lorac Bejeweled Day & Night Jewelry Box, $56 at Sephora, a $415 value Philosophy Amazing Grace Fragrance Layering Collection, $49.50 at Philosophy.com, a $72 value

Smashbox Snap You’re Fab Holiday Lip Gloss Set, $30 at Smashbox.com, a $96 value

Violet Clarisonic Mia, $119 at Nordstrom.com, a $134 value

Sonia Kashuk All Out Glam Six-Piece Brush Set, $24.99 at Target, a $54 value

The Body Shop Coconut 4-Piece Gift Collection, $30 at Sephora, a $48 value

Sephora Makeup Studio Blockbuster, $49.50 at Sephora, a $440 value

Review: Origins Plantscription Eye Treatment

Since the skin around your eyes is three times thinner than your facial skin, it's the first area you'll notice signs of aging.  Crows feet anyone?  Of course I have a bit of crows feet, but what really bothers me are the horizontal lines that are starting to appear underneath my eyes. Before I started getting them I didn't even know they could potentially exist on my face!  For the past seven weeks I've been testing Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Eye Treatment and have seen improvement. Made with a combination of tree bark, kombucha (fermented black tea) and rosemary, it helps to repair fine lines and wrinkles, improve the skin's elasticity and has collagen boosting benefits that work over time.

When it comes to skincare, I've tried a slew of natural products in the past and normally resort back to good 'ole chemicals.  What can I say?  My skin likes toxins.  However, I've never tried an all natural eye cream before and not only has my skin reacted nicely to it, but since I'm seeing improvement, I plan on sticking with it.

Every morning and night I dab a bit of the eye treatment around my whole entire eye with my ring finger (it's the finger with the least amount of strength and God knows I don't want to damage the area anymore) before applying my facial moisturizer.  It's a super moisturizing, light texture so when applied, the moisturizing properties help to plump and smooth my fine lines right away. Overtime though, it will help to firm the delicate skin and so far so good so I'm a believer!

Origins Plantscription Eye is available at Origins.com for $42.

*This is a sponsored post, but all of my comments are true.

Become A Real Life Sleeping Beauty, Thanks Daylight Savings!

Fall is my favorite season for many reasons, but perhaps the biggest is because we get to 'fall back' – an extra hour of sleep!  That's right, don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour on Saturday night.  Make sure you're getting the most out of your snooze with beauty loot that works best while you're at rest.  Check out my favorite finds. Bliss FatGirlSleep, $38 at blissworld.com

I've been a fan of the original cellulite fighter, FatGirlSlim, for years, but this jar of booty whip added a soothing lavender scent to their tightening complex to help you relax and sleep well as it works.  Lotus flower helps to fight the four causes of cellulite: fat storage, fat burning, water retention and slackened skin.  With continued use, I've seen an improvement on my thighs, but must note that when I stopped using it, the horror came back.

Algenist Overnight Restorative Cream, $90 at Sephora

As you sleep your skin cells turnover, which makes nighttime the ideal time to really take care of your skin and use the right ingredients.  I was introduced to this face cream about a month ago and love, love, love it.  I'm a fan of the light, creamy texture as it feels heavy enough for nighttime, but not like I'm wearing a mask.  Made with alguronic acid, which was extracted from a microalgae cell, it works overnight to even out skin tone and fight fine lines and wrinkles.

Fekkai Protein Rx PM Repair Strengthener, $65 at fekkai.com

I'm obsessed with hair treatments of all types and normally do masks in the shower.  This one is an overnight treatment that I sometimes use (you should use nightly if you have really damaged hair).  Proteins help to rebuild your strands (and let's be honest, we all can use a bit of help).  I find that after I wash it out in the morning my hair is super soft and shiny. Tip: After putting it in your hair, comb it through with for even distribution and then braid your hair or wrap it in a bun to keep the product out of your face while you sleep.

C.O. Bigelow My Favorite Night Balm, $7.50 at bigelowchemists.com

You need to coat your pucker!  Your lips are an extension of the skin on your face so the skin cells are turning over during the nighttime, making it the best time to moisturize and take care of them.  This isn't just another small tube of chap stick.  For $7.50 you better be getting something good and I promise, you are.  I love my cherry chap stick sometimes, but I feel like it just coats the top of my lips protecting them from the wind and outside elements.  This stuff actually penetrates them and moisturizes all night long.  Trust me.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand & Foot Cream Duo, $16 at usa.loccitane.com

This is the best stuff.  I've been addicted to the hand cream ever since I've been introduced to it about five years ago when I worked at Cosmo and no matter how many different kinds I try in between tubes, I'm constantly going back to it.  Don't forget to moisturize your hands and feet before getting in between the sheets.  Loaded with shea butter, this duo is a steal!  Tip: Wear socks to bed and wake up with super soft toes!

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.

Guilty Pleasures of the Web

Anthropologie Does Wedding Garb? (theluxuryspot) Urban Outfitters Sale (collegecandy)

How to Straighten Really Curly Hair (makeupdotcom)

How to Get Model Off Duty Hair (bellasugar)

JPG Designed a Bar of Gold (fashionista)

Fall Demin: What to Buy (refinery29)

Olivia Palermo Launches A Blog (huffingtonpost)

Skinceuticals New Gel Based Serums Impress

Despite the fact that I mostly write about the pretty things, at heart I'm a true science nerd and skincare junkie.  Learning about ingredients, upgrades in product technology and delivery systems excite me more than finding out how much the newest Chanel polish is going for on eBay. Therefore, I feel it's only right to dish about a new two products I'm using – Skinceuticals Phloretin CF Gel and AOX Eye Gel.  Why?  Because I know a thing or two about effective products and I want good skin. I've always used a form of a Vitamin C serum and if you don't yet, you should.  It's a powerful antioxidant that helps promote collagen while fighting free radicals.  The Skinceuticals Phloretin CF Gel includes Vitamin C and also Frulic Acid and Phloretin, which are antioxidants as well, you just don't recognize the names because they don't sound as sexy as "gogiberry" and "pomegranate" so the media doesn't really talk about them.  Truth is, these three ingredients are super potent and penetrate deeper into the skin than most.

The AOX Eye Gel is technically the same formulation at a lower concentration (since the skin around your eye area is more delicate) with added caffeine and an ingredient called ruscus aculeatus, a super fancy name for evergreen shrub that helps to reduce puffiness under the eyes.

When it comes to skincare I use a combination of drugstore and more expensive products because I'm super picky about what I put on my face so I'll use what works for me.  While these are a bit expensive, I believe in them because I believe in the science behind them and can say so far, so good.  I use them once a day in the morning under my moisturizer and SPF. I also like that they have a gel base so the serum doesn't get runny on my face.  You can find them at skinceuticals.com.

Survival of the Sexiest: Tom Ford Launches New Line

Tom Ford exudes sexy.  Not only is the man himself lust-worthy, but his luxorious clothing line, richly pigmented lipsticks, and steamy ads are a dangerous trifecta.

Now, Ford is launching a brand new makeup collection to complete the one-off Private Blend Lip Color he launched last year, which retailed at $45 a pop.  Yes, for one tube.  Mr. Sexy is also launching a full skincare collection at the same time.

“My brain works in the same way whatever I do," Ford said in Womens Wear Daily. "The approach is practical, architectural, and I use the same vocabulary whether I’m designing clothing or color cosmetics.”

What ever your doing Tom, it's working, and like all women in America – I'm turned on.

clomid, synthroid, zithromax, accutane, celebrex

How To Keep Your Rosacea Under Control

Last week I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Jeanine Downie to discuss rosacea and apparently there was a lot I didn't know!  Since the sun is one of the biggest causes of rosacea and the heat can also trigger it, I felt now, as we ease our way into summer, would be a good time to share how you can control it.

Rosacea affects about 16 million Americans regardless of their ethnicity and while the sun is one of the main triggers, stress is right up there as well and although it can't be cured, it can be controlled.

"There are three things people with rosacea need to do to keep it at bay – know their triggers, exercise and start treating it early,"  remarked Dr. Downie.  As soon as you start to notice signs of rosacea (redness, raised red bumps) seek help from your dermatologist.  It gets progressive with age if left untreated.

For many, triggers are the sun, heat, red wine, spicy food, caffeine, certain cosmetics or spa products and hormonal fluctuations.  Of course, triggers vary from person to person, but understanding what affects you is important.  And the three things that are known to reduce stress, which enhances rosacea are exercise, vacation and massages.  Exercising daily will significantly decrease your stress level, but since you heat up during exercise, be sure to drink ice cold water through out your work out.

People with rosacea often start with trying to use products like Mario Badescu Control Cream.  However, if keeping your rosacea under control on your own isn't working out, you may need a prescription.  Many dermatologists are beginning to prescribe Oracea, the first FDA approved oral medication that helps reduce inflammation.  Patients have been noticing better controlled rosacea in just three weeks.

Prom Prep 101

Today I'll be doing a Satellite Media Tour appearing on 27 TV stations across the country talking about preparing for the prom. I'm really excited because I know how important prom season is and love the fact that I have the opportunity to share some beauty secrets for all of the ladies and gents who will be attending!  By far, the best accessories for prom are clear skin, a bright smile and kissable lips. Since skin care is a main concern for most teens, it's important to start taking care of it now and not wait for the night before the prom.  God forbid you get a pimple!  I recommend using the new Clearasil Ultra Acne + Marks line.  The face wash doubles as a mask and contains 2% salicylic acid in it to remove dirt and oil from your pores and help clear and prevent break outs. Leave it on for 10 minutes once or twice a week for a deep clean.  If you get a pimple or see a mark starting to form from a pimple, use the spot treatment.  The salicylic acid will clear it quickly and it also has licorice root and Vitamin B3, which helps to diminish the mark.  I like it because it's a lotion, so it doesn't dry your skin out.

Then, from pre-prom photos through to the after party, your smile is your best asset!  Start prepping it with Crest 3D White Advanced Vivid Enamel Renewal Toothpaste.  It removes up to 90% of surface stains in just two weeks.  I use this whole collection, which you can learn more about here.

Finally, I recommend accentuating your natural features.  It's your prom so you don't want to over do it with makeup.  Nivea Lip Care came out with a line called "A Kiss Of..," which features A Kiss of Shine, A Kiss of Color and A Kiss of Moisture.  Each one is available in a variety of shades.

All products are available at drugstores.  Want to know more?  Comment below with your questions and I'll answer them!

*This post was sponsored.

Demi Moore's Skincare Secret: Stemulation

In the very beginning of the year I met with the women who created a new skincare line, Stemulation for dinner.  Being that I learn about new skincare lines almost everyday when I first sat down I didn't have major expectations.  However, when they told me their age, I was in shock.  After hearing there was no Botox or injections involved in their youthful looking skin I was intrigued to say the least to learn more about the line. I learned that the line is made out of human stem cells.  The first of its kind.  You may have heard of skincare made out of stem cells before, but they're always plant or animal based.  This is brand new technology.  The way it works is the growth factors in human stem cells are captured from donors bone marrow.  The line consists of a serum, boost creme and micro derm scrub.  An eye cream is on its way.

I've been consistently using the serum and eye cream (yes, I got a sneak peek). I use the serum before I apply my moisturizer and am looking at it as my anti-aging must have.  It's the secret behind the founders skin!  It's lightweight and I believe in it, because after about eight weeks of use, my skins texture has improved.  I pat the eye cream all the way around the orbit of my eye with my ring finger and am ridding my crows feet and keeping my eyes lifted (I did just turn 28)!

Holiday Gift Idea & Giveaway: KohGenDo Holiday Face Powder Gift Set

I've written about them probably a dozen times, but there's a reason – I really love this brand! KohGenDo created a Holiday Face Powders Set, $58 that's a great gift for any woman on your list.  I particularly like it because it includes three of the silkiest face powders in the best colors to ensure your skin looks flawless in any light.  They're such a cute stocking stuffer! It includes:

• Translucent Face Powder, 4 g
• Snowy Pink Face Powder, 4 g
• Natural Lighting Powder
• 3 powder puffs

Want one?  Happy Holidays from BeautySweetSpot!  I'm giving away a set to one lucky reader.  Follow me on twitter at @beautysweetspot and RT for a chance to win.

A winner will be chosen at random at the end of the day!  Good luck!

Holiday Gift Idea & Giveaway: Philosophy Holiday Greetings Set

When thinking of the holidays I think of baking with my mom – powdered sugar cookies, macaroons, warm apple pie.  That sums up the Philosophy Holiday Greetings set, $22. Each product smells just as delicious as the baking tastes.  Think Brown Butter Cookie Shampoo, Coconut Macaroon Body Butter and Pink Frosted Cookie Lip Shine.  Mmmm!  What a sweet holiday treat sans the calories!

Want one?  Happy Holidays to you from BeautySweetSpot!  I'm giving away a full set to a lucky reader.  Comment below by telling me about your favorite holiday baking memory.

A winner will be chosen at random on Sunday, December 5th.

Body Care Done Right

You can apply all the creams and serums you want to your face to try to maintain your youth, but what about the skin on the rest of your body?  It could be a dead giveaway of how old you really are or make you look even older if you don't pay attention to it.  I always say you should look at your neck and chest as an extension to your face.  There's nothing worse than seeing a woman with a fresh face and turkey neck. A recent study showed that if you maintain the skin on your body as well as the skin on your face people perceive you to be 10 years younger.  If you haven't already, start now.  I'm obsessed with total-body skin care and can only hope it continues to pay off.

I recommend starting right in the shower with Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Advanced Anti-Aging Body Wash, $5.99.

It has tackles body skin care... issues just like a good face wash does from brightening dull skin, improving elasticity and smoothing roughness to helping to even out your skin tone.  It's rich and creamy and feels super moisturizing.

Follow up with a good moisturizer and get into the routine.  I know you live by your facial routine each morning and night.  Trust me, treat your body the same way and it will pay off in the long run.

*Note: This is a sponsored post.

Celebrity Summer Trends

Nicole Richie is absolute favorite A-Lister to date because I love her style, but then there's Kate Hudson who always looks effortlessly chic.  I always look to the runways and celebs to seek out the latest trends and am lucky enough to get the inside scoop for BeautySweetSpot. Allow me to fill you in on some of the latest celebrity inspired trends for the summer season. The Smokey Eye

I've seen this look backstage at New York Fashion Week and on celebs at red carpet events all over the world.  I like to rock it on Friday nights out in the city and finally conquered it with CoverGirl's Smokey ShadowBlast. On one end it has a color for your base shadow and the other has a matching shade for your liner and crease.  I simply apply it and smudge it with my fingers.

Dewy Skin

Glowing, bronzed skin is definitely in (as long as you achieve it the safe way), but you need to get the natural dewy look, which can be hard for those with skin care problems like acne. Starletts like Katy Perry and Avril Lavigne love Proactiv because it's been the number one acne treatment system for the past 15 years.  The three-step system targets, clears and prevents acne.  Once you have clear skin, you can achieve that dewy complexion!

Tight Body

Those white skinny jeans don't look good on everyone!  If you want to rock this summer's latest trends, but are feeling a little less than body confident you can use every celebrities secret weapon, Hanes Smooth Illusions. The Waist Smoother automatically sucks in your stomach, hips and thighs (where we need help most) and are only $15 in the hosiery section of any department store.  Compared to other shape wear I've seen, that's a bargain!

*Note: This is a sponsored post.