Beauty Editor's Pick of the Week: H20 Plus Eye Oasis Moisture Replenishing Treatment

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Recommended by Oprah Magazine!  H20 Plus Eye Oasis Moisture Replenishing Treatment is an oil-free, intensive, hydrating eye treatment that floods skin with moisture helping to diminish fine lines while revitalizing texture and appearance.  A fast-absorbing, oil-free, intensive hydrating treatment formulated to target the delicate eye area with phopholipids, multivitamin complex and moisturizing marine botanicals.

•Nutrient-rich marine botanicals cool and soothe the skin with moisture, diminishing fine lines and revitalizing texture so eyes appear bright and well-rested.

•Penetrating liposomes transmit Provitamin B and vitamins A, C, and E to help protect skin from environmental exposure and accelerate cellular renewal.

•Sea-derived essential minerals work synergistically with Sea Mineral Complex, a patented, scientifically advanced delivery system to ensure vital nutrients are rapidly absorbed at the cellular level.

So, put a stop to dry, tight complexions and flood the delicate skin around your eyes with botanically-derived, oil-free hydration.  H20 Plus Eye Oasis Moisture Replenishing Treatment is your ticket to a healthy, glowing, well-moisturized eye area!

HANDS DOWN: Our Top 5 Hand-y Tips for Gorgeous, Age-Defying Hands

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Ladies, your hands are the first thing to show your age.  The days of spending hundreds of dollars attending to your face and completely ignoring your hands are over...  It's time to start paying attention to those paws!  Your hands, like the rest of your body, require exfoliation, cleansing, nourishment and protection to remain in good health.  Fortunately, there are 5 easy things you can do now to maintain the health and beauty of your hands...and here they are!

1. Don't forget the sunscreen. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS apply sunscreen before going outside, especially to your hands. This step is crucial to keeping hands looking their beautiful best and preventing age spots. For long-lasting, waterproof protection, try Murad Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30. This is a great product for both face and body!

2.  Start using a scrub on your hands.  You cannot beat the exfoliating power of a good scrub!  Exfoliating removes dead skin cells to uncover softer, fresher skin.  This important step also aids in absorption of other skin care products like lotions and creams.  You will want to apply approximately 1 teaspoon of a good body scrub to wet hands and massage thoroughly for about 1 minute before rinsing.  Garden Botanika Fresh Mint Whipped Body Buffer is a great one to try as it uses two gentle, natural exfoliants (Colloidal Oatmeal and Walnut Shell Powder) to remove dry/dead skin cells while gentle Shea and Mango butters melt into the skin for rich moisture. 

3.  Moisturize hands frequently, particularly after washing.  An effective hand cream or lotion should be applied several times a day to avoid dryness and keep hands looking healthy.  It is of the utmost importance that you ALWAYS moisturize your hands IMMEDIATELY after washing them (while they are still damp.)  This helps offset the drying effects of your soap while locking in essential moisture.  I like Jean-Michelle Creme Protecteur Pour Les Mains - Hand Creme.  It works wonders and smells like a dream!

4.  Give your hands a nighttime treatment.  For extra pampering and rejuvenation, use a rich, body treatment cream at night and then slip on a pair of gloves.  This trick gives the cream time to penetrate for maximum benefit.  Try H20 Plus Sea Marine Triple Butter Body Cream (an intensive, triple butter moisture cream with anti-aging marine botanicals to deeply moisturize and smooth skin for a youthful appearance) on hands with clean, cotton gloves. 

5.  Protect those paws!  Always wear gloves when cleaning, gardening, doing the dishes or coloring your hair.  This quick and easy step protects hands from a host of damaging elements and irritants.  When possible, apply moisturizer prior to putting on gloves. 

Follow these 5 easy steps and enjoy beautiful, well-preserved hands for years to come.  It only takes a few minutes a day, and your hands will love you forever!

Beauty Editor's Pick of the Week: Princess Livia Nectar Face Cream with Bee Pollen

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And, now for our fabulous face cream, its skin-saving ingredients, and why our customers love it so...

Bee Pollen has long had the power to help skin look and feel softer and younger. Its high concentration of essential nutrients and enzymes helps to stimulate circulation, nourish skin cells and encourage the growth of new skin tissue. In fact, bee pollen is one of the richest known sources of vitamins, minerals, protein, amino acids, hormones, enzymes and fats. It is the perfect natural skin treatment for all ages.

Formulated with precious Bee Pollen Extract, Princess Livia Nectar Face Cream with Bee Pollen is true to the ancient beauty secrets from which it is derived. It helps improve your skin's texture and tone, while it nourishes and moisturizes. For maximum results and moisture retention, apply sparingly to clean, damp skin (face and neck), morning and night. Use gentle upward motions to help keep skin firm and minimize fine lines.

Happy (Slightly Belated:) Birthday Madonna! A Retrospective on the Material Girl's Most Memorable Looks

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Happy 53rd Birthday Madonna!  The original "Material Girl" has proven to be one of the most chameleon-like, enigmatic fashion plates to ever hit pop music (or even pop culture, for that matter).  To celebrate her birthday, we're running down some of her hottest, most memorable looks.  Enjoy!

THE LOOK - Sultry Sex-Pot

Why it's Memorable:  Those eyes!  Those eyes!  THOSE EYES!  Did we mention those eyes?!?!  We're speechless...  When are we EVER speechless?  Nothing like soft, heavy-lidded bedroom eyes and a matte nude lip to get that heart a-racin'.  Oh, and don't forget the ultra-dramatic brows - Va va va VOOM!

THE LOOK - Dramatic Deneuve

Why it's Memorable:  WE.  LOVE.  HER.  HAIR.  OMG!  Don't you?  Channeling the gorgeous, timelessly-appealing elegance of French film star Catherine Deneuve is a sure-fire way to look absolutely fabulous.  May we suggest a hair stylist?!?!  Even our beauty experts are bewildered here....  Looks like extensions or a hairpiece?  Super-smooth blowout anyone?  One thing we do know: The end result is a KNOCKOUT!

THE LOOK - Disco Diva

Why it's Memorable:  We do love us some retro-style around this place (see last week's blog post for more retro-inspired looks), and 70's-style disco divas always OWN the dance floor.  Her soft waves (braid your slightly damp hair before going to bed - wake up as Madonna - actually, just with her hairstyle :), and heavy lashes (Can you say falsies?!?! - Half-strip starting at the midpoint of your lash line should do the trick) make us want to get our groove on!  Seriously, though.

THE LOOK - Geisha Glam

Why it's Memorable:  Because you should never, ever, EVER try to imitate it.  EVER....  Unless, that is, you are going to a costume party.  Then...  perfect.  Otherwise, this is not a look we want to see our beauty buddies sporting around.  As master hairstylist Vidal Sassoon once said:  "If YOU don't look good, WE don't look good."  Such a good quote...  Do you think he was referring to this hairstyle?

THE LOOK - Classic. Period. 

Why it's Memorable:  Please refer to above text.  'Nuff said.  ONE MORE THING: Did we mention she just turned 53?!?!

"Get into the Groove" for fall by taking a tip from one of our favorite style icons.  With her constantly evolving look and killer "Blonde Ambition," she's a power-gal with glam to spare!   

(PHOTOS OF MADONNA COURTESY OF ONE OF OUR AB-FAVE MAGS - See more @ INSTYLE.COM)

Beauty Editor's Pick of the Week: Madeleine Mono Act 1 Fresh Start Gentle Exfoliator for All Skins

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It's typically right around this time of year that I notice my skin becomes a bit dry, tight and not-as-smooth as I'd like it to be. As fall approaches and the humidity begins to subside, it is more important than ever to exfoliate your skin regularly. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and other pore-cloggers to reveal the newer, fresher skin underneath. Not only does this help to make your skin feel smoother, it enhances the effectiveness and penetration of moisturizers and other treatment products.  Not to mention, after a good scrub (gently, gently), you'll notice your foundation and concealer go on like a dream! This makes exfoliation one of the most important steps in your beauty routine.

For a smooth-as-silk complexion, try Madeleine Mono Act 1 Fresh Start Gentle Exfoliator for All Skins - a gentle exfoliator that helps purify and renew skin with moisturizing Jojoba beads. Enriched with Aloe Vera, skin-soothing Oat and Calendula Extracts, it gently sloughs off dead skin cells and clears pores so skin can breathe.

Madeleine Mono Act 1 Fresh Start also contains skin-toning, balancing and energizing extracts of Apricot, Avocado, Peach, Carrot, and Lily of the Valley to give you smoother, fresher, and more vibrant skin.

You’ll love its clean, fresh scent and the smooth feeling it leaves behind!  Find this and more great skin-savers all at Cosmetique!

Get a Jump on Fall's Hottest Makeup With a Look at the Stellar Styles of Decades Past...

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Isn't it ironic that in our never-ending quest to look current, we often need only look to the past?  That's right, some of fall and winter's hottest trends are inspired by the glamorous looks of yesteryear.  I've done a little sleuthing and narrowed it down to 5 iconic makeup trends from decades past -  To inspire your look...  TODAY!

The FIERY '50's

Photo Courtesy of Eyeshadowlipstick.com

This is a trend we've talked about over and over again.  The bold lip is most notably seen on 50's screen sirens, but NEVER truly goes out of fashion.  There are two things about this particular trend that really appeal to me...  One, the right shade of red brightens up even the dullest complexion in the most magical way, and can even make your eye color appear more vibrant.  Two, it is the EASIEST makeup look in the world to execute!  All you need is a little concealer and mascara, and you're ready to walk out the door.  Of all the looks for fall, this one requires the least amount of products (and steps) which makes it one of my favorites!  Besides, who doesn't want to look like a 50's femme fatale?



The SMOLDERING '60's

Photo Courtesy of Glamour.com

This look always works because it positively OOZES sex appeal.  Many expert studies have been conducted on which makeup looks men find most attractive, and this one is always a winner!  Dark, sultry eyes draw others in and bring attention to one of a woman's most beautiful features.  Although, it is a look that requires a little finesse, it is well worth the time spent to create it.  The payoff is huge.  Just look at Sienna Miller!



The SHIMMERING '70's

Photo Courtesy of Blog-tique.com

Think Studio 54 with a modern twist - More shimmer, less glitter is key.  This universally-flattering look can be used on the entire body, as well as the face.  Today's shimmers are much more subtle than those of the disco-era and provide a beautiful incandescent glow to the skin (this "glow" mimics the radiance of very young complexions... SOLD!).  A nice bronze, gold or soft rose are the most flattering shades with which to experiment.



The BLUSHING '80's

Photo Courtesy of Totalbeauty.com

It is truly amazing what a pop of cheek color can do for your look!  The right shade applied correctly can take years off and even make you look happier and healthier.  The key to making this trend work for present-day is to apply blush directly to the apples of your cheeks and blend up and out towards your hairline.  To avoid looking dated, skip the racing stripe variety made popular in the 80's.

The SCULPTURAL '90's

Photo Courtesy of Instyle.com

Just as a beautiful frame can bring out the very best in the artwork it surrounds, a strong, well-shaped brow can bring out the very best in you!  Brows frame your face and create structure and interest.  They also draw attention to your eyes, which is a HUGE plus.  Today's brows, much like those of the 90's, are full, sculptural and well-defined.  If you can swing it, have your brows shaped regularly by a professional.  It is SO WORTH IT!

Keep your look current this season by embracing your past.  With these 5 killer trends from days of yore, you'll be looking "so right now" in no time - FLAT!

Beauty Editor's Pick of the Week: Garden Botanika Rejuvenating Eye Treatment

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An ultra-effective antidote to the signs of aging around the eyes, Garden Botanika Rejuvenating Eye Treatment combines Vitamin K and three forms of Vitamins C and E to target the delicate area around the eyes and reveal firmer, younger-looking skin.

Fortified with this super-potent dose of triple Vitamins C and E, Garden Botanika's revolutionary revitalizer eases the appearance of fine lines and inhibits the natural loss of firmness. Light diffusing Boron Nitride helps lessen the appearance of dark under-eye circles. Can I get a "WHOO-HOO!!!??" - (Clearly, that's my problem area :)What's more, this eye-enhancing treatment can be used on even the most sensitive skin - no added fragrance and no artificial dyes!  Guess, they don't call themselves Garden Botanika for nothin'!

Fall's just around the corner...  Don't forget, decreased humidity can intensify the appearance of sagging, fine lines AND wrinkles.  Get a jump start on getting gorgeous for fall with one of our absolute FAVORITE eye treatments.

PLUS, stop by our website to find more great stuff from the botanical masterminds at Garden Botanika!

The Fountain of Youth: 5 Age-Defying Makeup Tips to Try NOW!

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Photo of my favorite age-defying beauty - Demi Moore, Courtesy of Thejay.com

And with out further ado... Here they are!

1.  ACHIEVE COMPLEXION-PERFECTION (crease-free!)

Because skin tends to lose moisture and wrinkle as we age, you don't want to use too much powder on aging skin.  For a younger look, begin by mixing a primer created for mature skin with your foundation -  This will sheer it out a bit so it doesn't settle into fine lines.  Then, lightly powder with a large brush just to set the makeup. Looking for the perfect age-defying primer?  Try Too Faced Wrinkle Injection.

2. KEEP IT SIMPLE

Choose a feature to spotlight - either eyes or lips, but not both.  If you're experimenting with a red lip, a little undereye concealer and mascara should be enough for the eyes.  If it's a sexy, smoky eye you're going for, pair it with a subdued, neutral lip that has just a touch of color.  I like Sara St. James Easy Color Lipstick in Sugar Berry.



3. BANISH DROOPY-LOOKING EYES

If you're experiencing drooping in the eye area, minimize it by drawing the focus to your lash line with a nice, soft-edged eyeliner on top only.  Pur Minerals Mineral Eye Defining Pencil with Smudger does a great job of defining eyes without looking harsh.  The smudger allows you to soften the line for a beautiful, well-blended look.



4. GIVE YOUR FACE A LIFT - NO SURGERY NEEDED!

Well-shaped, defined brows are very important - but be sure they're not too harsh.  Brows should be just strong enough to create a frame for the eye.  A nice, soft taupe works best for almost every hair color. Try Pur Minerals Mineral Brow Perfection for a great, universal brow color accompanied by an awesome shaping wax.



5. GIVE LIP SERVICE

Lips should be well-defined.  For the most youthful lip look, begin with a liner that is a close match to the lip color you're planning to wear.  To avoid the dreaded "ring around the mouth," fill in lips thoroughly with the lip liner before applying lipstick or gloss.  Madeleine Mono Viva Diva Duo Lipliner has a neutral warm shade on one end, and a neutral cool shade on the other.  One of these two shades should work well with any lip color you choose to wear.

And there you have it.  No matter what your age, these 5 simple tips will work wonders toward creating a fresher, more youthful appearance.  Leave a comment and let us know how it goes!

Beauty Editor's Pick of the Week: LipFusion Micro-Injected Collagen Lip Plumping Pencils AND Glosses AND Treatments - OH MY!

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FusionBeauty has pioneered the needle-free lip injection with their revolutionary Micro-Injected Collagen delivery system. In fact, they created the first topical product to boast penetrating collagen!  The tiny, dehydrated collagen microspheres penetrate the surface of the skin and then use the body’s natural water to re-plump.  This means full, pouty lips without the sting!


Now, there's LipFusion Micro-Injected Collagen Color Shine, for those who want all the plumping qualities of the original with a sheer pop of color - We carry this lip-maximizing gloss in 4 scintillating shades!

For a seriously full pout, LipFusion XL-2X Micro-Injected Collagen + HA Advanced Lip Plumping Therapy is a powerful nighttime treatment for maximum plumping and long-lasting effects.

Using the same science behind the best-selling lip plumpers, FusionBeauty has created the first ever Micro-Injected Collagen Lip Plumping Pencil, available on our website in 2 neutral, lip-enhancing shades.

Since its inception, LipFusion has had a huge celebrity following. These are just a few of the stars who swear by it:


Christina Aguilera, Alyssa Milano, Jessica Simpson, Natasha Henstridge, Brooke Burns, Carmen Electra, Felicity Huffman, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jenny McCarthy, Juliette Lewis, Kristen Bell, Nicollette Sheridan, Shannon Doherty, Joan Rivers, Shannon Elizabeth, Sophia Bush, Taryn Manning, Mena Suvari, Emily Procter, Rebecca Romijn, Jane Leeves, Patricia Arquette, Debra Messing, Nicole Richie, Ashlee Simpson, Marcia Cross, and Jennifer Garner.

In addition to its many other celeb fans, FusionBeauty has a sexy, A-list spokesmodel…  the one and only, Kim Kardashian!

Photo Courtesy of Fashionbombdaily.com

We are beyond thrilled to be able to offer you this line of highly effective, lip plumping products. Check ‘em all out for yourself at Cosmetique.com!