Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence

I’ve been Tata-obsessed since meeting the luminous Ms. Harper herself last year at Gee Beauty. My dewy skin secret lately has been to soak (literally 6 sprays) my face, post cleanse with this brilliant mist before layering on my oils and serums. The bio-identical hyaluronic acid in this formula actually communicates with our skin cells to promote healing and regenerating, retaining moisture and plumping fine lines and wrinkles for the healthiest skin and most luminous glow. Also a great step after any acid exfoliant to neutralize and hydrate and anytime during the day to refresh and calm (rose flower and lavender in the formula smell amazing). Great for setting makeup too!  Must have!!! 

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Face Powder

So the Charlotte Tilbury launch at Holt Renfrew Bloor was big news in Toronto- and for good reason. The makeup artist to the stars is quickly taking the world by storm with her makeup revolution- showing us regular women that, with a few easy tips and tricks and a couple of key products- it's easy to feel like the most beautiful version of ourselves. The Airbrush Flawless Finish Face Powder is one of my faves- a super chic micro-fine translucent powder compact (in the most stunning rose gold) that miraculously blurs away lines, pores and imperfections without a powdery or chalky finish- leaving you with the most effortlessly flawless skin you've ever experienced. Contains Rose wax and almond oil to keep skin hydrated all day, never feeling dry, dull or cakey; and light reflecting particles to leave you luminous and even-toned. You actually have to see it to believe it but this new technology will change your mind about pressed powders. A must have in my books. 

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow

My search for the perfect bronzer ended when I discovered Charlotte’s Filmstar Bronze & Glow. Not only is this contour and highlight duo gorgeous to look at (inspired by a 1920s gold Art Deco cigarette case) the finely-milled powders are absolutely divine on the skin. Using light flex technology, Charlotte makes it easy to "slim, sculpt, shorten, trim and highlight" your features!  Bronze & Glow creates the most believable beachy flush-  as an all over bronzer or contour shade- and stunningly gossamer highlight- that magically lights up the skin. Run, don't walk, to the Charlotte counter at Holts Bloor to pick this baby up. While you're there you may want to snap up the Powder and Sculpt brush which literally does all the work for you. 

Charlotte Tilbury Beach Sticks

Charlotte Tilbury has captured the coveted holiday glow with her incredible multi-tasking Beach Sticks.  These pretty little rose gold sticks are all you need to create perfect bronzy, dewy skin with a pop of colour to truly make you look lit from within. So easy to use, and impossible to overdo- I use Ibiza (a universal bronzy shade), straight from the tube, across my cheeks and wherever the sun would naturally hit me- blend with my fingers- and top with moon beach (glowy peach) or las salinas (luminous pink) on the apples of my cheeks to fake a sunny vacation any day of the week. Charlotte says: The gorgeous texture is due to a genius ingredient called Ceramidone that acts like a poly-filler to refill and plump up the skin, giving a youthful, flawless surface. Without this, cream products can have a tendency to sit in any skin surface imperfections, such as pores, lines or scars. Can be used on cheeks and lips. Perfect for summer, or anytime u are in the mood to have everyone tell you how gorgeous you look. 😍😍😍 

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel

Lately a lot of people have been asking me why, no matter how many expensive serums, moisturizers and eye creams they slather on their skin, their reflection in the mirror is still an ashen, dull and lackluster complexion. Listen up ladies. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… The reason that none of your products are working is because you’re not EXFOLIATING your skin, allowing for your lotions and potions to penetrate and get to work on solving your aging issues. Exfoliation is KEY to radiant and bright skin, but you have to be careful how you go about it.   Those of us who are blessed with uber sensitive skin, need to steer clear of abrasive scrubs and peels. My skin used to flush just looking at the ‘St Ives’ Apricot Facial Scrub that all my friends were using. So I needed to find something gentler.

I discovered Dr Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Peel while reading the now defunct Lucky Magazine over 10 years ago and have been a convert to acid exfoliation ever since.  This life-changing, at-home peel transformed my dull, lifeless, ridiculously sensitive skin into glowing, bright and luminous, practically overnight.  Magically, my pores were tightened, my skin tone improved and my adult acne was eradicated.  Long story short, it gave me the skin I wish I was born with.

The beauty of the Alpha Beta peel is that it tackles any skin woe you may have: fine lines and wrinkles, large pores, acne and dark spots, texture and tone.

It takes 2.5 minutes and the results are so worth it.  Simply wipe the face with a ‘Step 1’ pad, wait two minutes, then repeat with ‘Step 2’.  As the website states, This product combines five alpha and beta hydroxyy acids with retinol, ubigquinone, resveratrol and a host of other antioxidants and soothing botanicals. Depending on your skin type, It’s gentle enough for daily use; or use as often as you like to get your glow on!!!  Available in Ultra Gentle, Original or Extra Strength.

Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Wrinkle Overnight Serum

Talk about getting your beauty sleep. This powerhouse overnight retinol serum by my fave Dr Dennis Gross does not disappoint. Wake up to seriously smooth (fine lines be gone) and firmer skin (tighter pores too!); plus an overall look of brightness resulting in serious glow. This product is strong so if you're a retinol rookie, start by using 2 pumps at night once weekly on clean skin, followed by your fave hydrating serums and creams. Depending on your skin type, you can work your way up slowly to using this gem nightly. Beware: retinol ALWAYS makes your skin more sun-sensitive so, don't forget your sunblock of SPF 30 or higher for daytime. 

Dr. Dennis Gross Instant Radiance Sun Defence

K you guys.. This is BEYOND.  in my opinion, Dr Gross never disappoints and the new Instant Radiance Sun Defence is no exception. A serious multi-tasker, This ticks off so many boxes for me, making my summer morning routine so much quicker.  It's like a moisturizer, radiance-booster, foundation, and chemical free SPF 40 all wrapped up in one. Note: due to the high uva/uvb protection - when you first apply this, it may appear a bit pale. But, fear not friends, massage this beauty in and, within seconds, the genius color correcting technology matches it perfectly to your skintone and all you see is even, gorgeous skin. Available in 2 shades. The only downer is that this gem isn't available in Canada yet- SO if you plan to be travelling in the States, snap one up at Sephora, Barneys, Nordstrom or BEG your friends to pick one up for you. You won't be sorry. ❤️❤️

May Lindstrom Blue Cocoon

So I just finished my third huge jar of May Linsdstrom Blue Cocoon. As many of you know, I try so many products that it's rare for me to finish one jar of anything, let alone 3. Blue Cocoon is my holy grail, jack-of-all-trades CLEAN beauty product that brings instant calm-to the skin and to the senses. Ideal for stressed or 'easily offended' skin types, this all-natural beauty balm quickly corrects irritation, dryness, redness, acne, eczema,  itchiness- you name it. This is a luxury investment but you only need a tiny amount for your whole face (rub between your hands first to liquify). Smells like a dream, feels even better and your skin will be left nourished and balanced. Great for kids too as its totally natural.

Glossier 

LOVE!!! Emily Weiss's GENIUS Glossier line of products are taking the world by storm. The Milky Jelly Cleanser is a perfect hybrid of a gel and a milk- so gentle and soothing- yet leaves my face feeling fresh and clean; Priming Moisturizer is a not too light, not too heavy, dream of a cream that hydrates and primes in one step (think Embryolise but a bit lighter); Perfecting Skin Tint is a barely there tint that just looks like beautiful skin (evening, NOT concealing the skin and leaving a beautiful dewy finish- who doesn't want that?); and Balm Dot Com is a thick Vaseline-but-better lip balm that multitasks like crazy (use on tops of cheekbones for a touch of extra glow or to moisturize your cuticles, smooth your hair in a pinch and more). And, can we talk about the packaging???? Perfection.  Beautiful simple skincare for your teens and you. 

Givenchy Hydra Sparkling Magic Lip and Cheek Balm

I picked up this gem from Givenchy over a year ago after seeing it on one of Lisa Eldridge’s makeup vids. As usual, I tried it once, tossed it in the abyss of my makeup drawer and forgot about it. Anyways, I pulled it out the other day and haven't been without it since.  According to Givenchy, This magic pot contains a lip & cheek balm that instinctively harmonizes with every skin tone for a customized, radiant and fresh flush of color! This pink potion feels smooth and hydrating like a regular lip balm but with the addition of a gorgeous self adjusting pink stain.  I use it on my cheeks too by tapping a tiny amount on for the perfect just pinched dewy look. SO PRETTY!! 

Paula's Choice Resist BHA 9

You know those times when you have a big event coming up and all of a sudden your face starts erupting with blackheads, a weird rash or a huge zit?? 🙀🙀🙀 I recently faced this very challenge and as I was rifling through my overstuffed drawers for that perfect product that would make it all go away, out this fell.  I purchased this Paula's Choice product (with low expectations) a few months back and used it a few times on some stubborn milia (those bumps under the skin that never seem to disappear) and- to my surprise-it worked like a charm at shrinking them. Anyway, I dispensed one pump of this silky smooth salicylic serum and rubbed it on my 'problem areas' and hit the sack. The next morning, my breakout was so visibly reduced, I couldn't believe it.  Moreover, unlike a traditional drying acne treatment, my skin was left hydrated and balanced and after one more application, my spots were mostly  gone! This skin- soothing BHA treatment is truly a game changer for reducing breakouts and purports to fade angry dark spots following a breakout and unclog and minimize pores.   Make sure you have some on hand for your next skin emergency. You can thank me later. 

Sunday Riley Good Genes

I discovered the much hyped Sunday Riley line a few years ago while wandering the Barney’s cosmetics department and have been using their products ever since. One of the hero’s of the line is called Good Genes. Even the name got me excited. After testing this dreamy chemical exfoliant (no harsh scrubbing here!) for a mere 5 days, I knew the hype was true and that Sunday Riley Good Genes is an easy to use, at home treatment akin to perfect, glowy skin in a bottle.

This ‘holy grail status’ serum transformed my dull and crazy sensitive skin into glowing and bright, right before my very eyes. Suddenly, my pores were tighter, my skin tone more even and, a miracle to behold, no more PMS face! Long story short, it gave me the skin I wish was in ‘my genes’.

For a luminous glow, I apply one pump of Good Genes on my freshly cleansed skin at night, and top with my favorite skin oil (Sunday’s Juno is ideal) or cream moisturizer to really lock in the ‘goodness’. It can also be used as an intensive 5 day treatment before a big event to perfect, brighten and even your skin; or, for those with sensitive skin, try mixing one pump of Good Genes with your cream or gel cleanser and applying as a mask for 5 minutes. You will be thrilled with the results!

One pump of this lactic-acid infused wonder works to plump up fine lines, eradicate hyper pigmentation and redness, eliminate sun damage and reveal the brighter and newer skin you knew was under there somewhere! Good Genes delivers results that will make you jump up and down with joy (I know I did!). You will also be happy to know the entire Sunday Riley line is made without yucky sulfates or synthetics. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

Sunday Riley Juno Transformative Lipid Serum

In year’s past, the thought of adding more oil to my already slick complexion used to freak me out beyond.  But, over the past year or two, thanks in large part to Linda Rodin’s groundbreaking ‘Olio Lusso’ facial oil, the idea of trading in my traditional cream moisturizers for gorgeous scented oils has become more mainstream.

My oil obsession has been going strong for several years now, and I find them so nourishing and revitalizing…I am a convert for life.

One of my FAVES is Sunday Riley JUNO… which has been described as an intoxicating ‘rare dry oil that gives skin an obsession-worthy glow’.  According to Sunday herself, ‘this serum is a blend of lightweight, fast absorbing oils extremely high in natural retinol, vitamin C, essential amino acids, omega-3,6 and 9, UV shields, and natural anti-inflammatory agents for luminous skin.’  This facial oil really packs a punch!

Juno is designed to be used on all skin types, so fear not friends… it will not break you out.  I use it morning and night, in many different combinations, and my skin has gone from greasy to glowing in one fall swoop!  Juno mixes well with any moisturizer or serum, turning your ordinary skincare into an anti-aging powerhouse!  Or try mixing one pump with your sunscreen, for a velvety application, extra luminosity and to seal in your sun protection.  Juno has multiple uses, feel free to message me for more tips.  

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Oil

Every time there is a new major skincare launch, I get positively giddy with excitement. My heart starts to beat a bit faster, my palms get all sweaty and I can’t wait to get my hands on the latest and greatest product that will ‘change my life’ forever. Maybe I’m being a bit dramatic, but I wasn’t the only one. There has been a TON of buzz surrounding the launch of Sunday Riley’s newest oil ‘Luna’, and rightfully so. Her other three oils, Juno, Artemis and Flora (formerly Isis) shot to stardom practically overnight. So, could Sunday Riley really do it again? The answer to that my friend is.. damn right she can!

Luna Sleeping Night Oil is written up on the Sephora website as a “next-generation retinoid oil to reduce pore size, improve the appearance of sun damaged skin, and help fight wrinkles.”  It contains a kind of retinol called ‘trans-retinol ester’ which works the same way as regular retinol does, but without all the nasty peeling, redness and itching that have always given retinol a bad wrap. Sunday has also thrown in an essential oil complex including cold-pressed avocado, chia, and concord grape seed oils to soothe the skin and boost radiance, all while building new collagen as you sleep. One of the things that makes Luna unique (and super fun) is its shocking blue hue. This is because of the addition of my new favourite skincare staple called Blue Tansy, which is a natural antihistamine boasting strong anti-redness qualities and known to heal damaged skin, including dermatitis and eczema- again reducing any risk of irritation.

Recommended for use only at night, Luna is perfect for first-time retinol users and veterans alike. You only need a few drops, massaged onto clean skin. Wait for it to absorb… in like 2 seconds flat.. and follow with Juno (perfection) or any other hydrating oil or moisturizer to seal in the goodness. Get your 8 hours of beauty sleep (or less- it really doesn’t matter with this product adorning your face) and you will wake up with more youthful, healthy skin with, wait for it… visibly reduced pores and the brightness of a newborn baby (maybe ‘newborn baby’ is an exaggeration… but this stuff is VERY good). Luna is gentle enough for use every night, but first time retinol users should start slowly- as you would with any new product.  Lately, Ive been bringing out the big guns and topping my Luna oil with Good Genes serum, a combo recommended by Sunday Riley herself. Can you hear the heavens opening up and the angels singing?????? Yes, my beauty lovers… Sunday Riley has knocked it out of the park, once again.

Kiehl’s Sun Free Self Tanning Formula

I’ve been a fan of self tanners since they first came on the scene, during my very awkward teenage years in the mid 1980’s.  I used to slather them on blindly, over my sun-burnt and peeling face during Christmas break (remember this was the 80’s, before I became obsessive about skincare), praying that I would return to school a bronzed goddess after my 2 week family vacations.  Well, sadly that was not to be, and I often returned from holiday a revolting shade of oompa-loompa orange (including my palms, which were a shade darker even), making me the laughing stock of my junior high class.

Well, my lovelies… I am happy to say that ‘fake and bakes’ have come a long way since then and my persistent hunt for the perfect, most natural one has led me to the holy grail…

Kiehl’s Sun Free Self Tanning formula is lightweight and non-greasy, gliding on easily for a gorgeous (and super-believable) long-lasting golden tan.  Instantly absorbed, this lotion is formulated with Apricot Kernel Oil, Cocoa Seed Butter, and Vitamin E to bathe your skin in moisture.  Feel free to slather it on, head to toe (perfect for face too) and in 3-4 hours you will be the bronzed goddess I wish I were in junior high.

A few tips to fool-proof your application- prior to applying, first rub a touch of your regular body lotion into elbows, knees and ankles to ensure those areas don’t ‘over-bake’ or darken.  Also, after face application, make sure to take a damp washcloth and rub any excess off your eyebrow area to remove the evidence.  Make sure to wash hands thoroughly when you’re finished, and friends will think you just returned from a weeklong holiday in the tropics.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine

Everyone who knows me knows I practically hyperventilate over a great lip stick/gloss/balm.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine is all 3 of the above rolled into one perfect lip confection.  Described on the Chanel website as a ‘Hydrating Color Lipshine’, Coco Shine boasts an innovative formula with great color pay-off and moisture beyond, thanks to its patented ‘Hydratendre Complex’.

The perfect hybrid of lipstick and gloss, the Rouge Coco Shine formula is buttery soft, offering a sheer wash of gorgeous color with the ideal amount of shine every time.  The color range is impressive with loads of beautiful shades to choose from.   It’s no surprise that I immediately honed in on ‘Chance’, the perfect baby pink with a hint of coral as the first of many pretty colors I’ve since picked up.  Other gorgeous shades I love are Boy- a classic ‘my lips only better’ shade,  Fétiche for a mauve pink pout with subtle shimmer or Canotier for the quintessential sexy nude lip.

So flawless, this gem has earned a permanent spot in my (already massive) rotation of lip products…will it make it into yours?  Let me know. 

Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer

Just hearing the word ‘glowy’ makes me giddy with excitement, so it will come as no surprise that I’m giving a special shout out to the holy grail of highlighting perfection- Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer.

The best of the best, Fluid Sheer ‘dresses skin in an illuminating veil of radiance’.   And what, my friends, could be better than that?  These unique, translucent multi-taskers have quickly become a go-to in my cosmetics line-up.   Plus, Armani have just revamped the packaging, and added some new shades (gorgeous blush and bronzing colors), so now is the perfect time to jump on the bandwagon.  With endless uses, from highlighting, blusher or even a sheer wash of shadow on the lids, there’s much to love about this product.

For luminous skin (without a trace of disco-ball shine), mix one pump of fluid sheer with a pump of your regular foundation or tinted moisturizer and apply all over the face; or for spot highlighting, take ½ pump and use over foundation on the high points of cheeks, brow bones and even a touch on the cupids bow. Use a foundation brush or beauty blender for perfect results.  For reference, I love #10, a gorgeous golden shade to mix with foundation; #7 a pearly pink as a spot highlight; and check out #9, for the perfect pink flush. 

Skinceuticals AOX + Eye Gel

Skinceuticals AOX + Eye Gel is my beauty secret (on my forth or fifth bottle of this gem) that packs a huge punch in a tiny little pump.  This Triple antioxidant treatment to combat photo aging and signs of fatigue- brightens, lifts and firms with effects that are obvious even after the first use!

You already know how brightening and firming Vitamin C serum is for your face, and now that same miracle is available for the baby-sensitive eye area. Trust me, you need this!

Skinceuticals says:

This breakthrough serum-in-a-gel contains a synergistic antioxidant combination to help protect the delicate eye area from oxidative stress, while targeted actives revive under-eye skin and reduce the appearance of puffiness.  Powerful ingredients prevent signs of aging; corrects signs of photo damage; helps reduce the appearance of puffiness; and combats signs of fatigue to restore a fresh, vibrant appearance.

I have been using this product for a few years, and I can personally attest to all these benefits.  Pick up this dream eye gel and say goodbye to that unsightly under-eye luggage and those pesky lines and wrinkles for good.  One pump is enough for use on both eyes.  Use mornings, by patting gently around clean eye area and refrigerate for that added ‘wake-me-up’ bonus effect.  May be layered under any eye cream of your choice for added moisture.

Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer

Let’s face it… we all need a little concealer in our life.  Too many late nights… a few too many… we all have things to conceal.  And, why not treat yourself to the best?

Winner of the InStyle Best Beauty Award for the past 8 years in a row, Clé de Peau Beauté concealer has been blogged to death for good reason… Often described as the holy grail.. a perennial makeup artist favorite… iconic. 

A staple in my makeup bag basically forever, Clé de Peau Beauté concealer is highly editorialized and continues to win major awards year after year.  Both creamy and light reflecting, this cover up fixes everything; banishing under eye circles like a dream and obliterating blemishes in a flash, without leaving any trace of it’s hard work behind.  Just clear beautiful skin.

According to the company, this beauty stick is enhanced with Revitalizing Moisture Complex to lock in moisture and smooth out texture.  It blends sublimely to expertly conceal dark circles, spots and imperfections.  In addition, High-performance powders ensure flawless skin in any light, providing maximum coverage with a smooth, even finish that does not crease.

From my perspective, this makeup artist fave is your secret weapon to perfection.  I use it after or instead of foundation to banish dark circles (don’t blend right up to your lash line… it will make you look puffy), a touch blended down my nose and on my brow bone for a natural highlight, and to make any unsightly redness disappear in two shakes of a lambs tail.  Keep it in your purse at all times for quick touch ups.

Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer may be a bit pricey but one stick will last you a very long time. And, I promise, you’re worth it.

Beauty Blender

Makeup artists and Celebrities alike have been raving about the Beauty Blender makeup sponge since it launched so, you can imagine my delight when I first spotted this hot pink, egg-shaped wonder at my local Sephora.

This multiple, award-winning genius cosmetic applicator lets you blend, blend, blend your way to perfectly airbrushed skin! To use, hold the sponge under the tap to fill with water. It will expand to more than double it’s original size…then squeeze out excess water until you are left with a damp sponge. Now, use the sponge to dab, bounce and blend product (liquid/cream foundation/concealer etc) onto the skin.

The unique shape makes application foolproof and allows you access to hard to reach areas (including under the eyes), making it a breeze to apply your products. Its suede-like texture feels super luxe on your skin and will leave your makeup flawless and undetectable. When you’re finished using, simply wash with soap and water (or Blender Cleanser- sold separately) and set on top of the container ‘pedestal’ to dry. With proper care, your sponge can last for months and months. Available in a rainbow of colors and sizes. Check out the Beauty Blender website for a quick, how-to video.

Stila Stay all Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

There’s something about a ‘perfectly lined’ eye that gets my attention every time.  I adore the simplicity of a neutral (usually matte) shadow and that perfect swipe of black liquid liner with a touch of kitten ‘flick’ at the outer corner.  It’s subtle and sexy and NEVER goes out of style.

Stila has made the look easier than ever to pull off with their Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

According to Sephora, this easy-glide, quick-dry precision liner stays in place until you say when—no smudges, feathering, or running. The thin, marker-like tip is easy to use, even for the beauty beginner, and delivers any look (from a thin line to a bold, dramatic stroke). It goes on smoothly without skipping, smudging, or pulling, and lasts all day!   With the risk of sounding overly dramatic, This eyeliner ROCKS MY WORLD. It’s felt-tip pen makes application practically foolproof, and the pigment is super rich and dark and stays on forever- what more could you ask for?  To use, start at the inner corner and work your way outward with gentle controlled strokes, staying as close to the lashes as possible.  If colouring ‘in the lines’ is difficult for you, try making a series of small dots and connect them afterwards to make a perfect line. It works like a charm!

Comes in a variety of basic and vibrant colors. I think I own about 6, from basic black to a bright, sparkly teal!!

Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner- Gel Crayon

I’ve been on the hunt for an easy-to-use, stay-all-day pencil eyeliner for like, ever.  Although I adore the prim and perfected look of a liquid liner (especially Stila’s ‘Stay All Day’), there’s something really rock chick about lining your eyes with a soft pigment-rich pencil formula.  Unfortunately, for me, most pencil liners tug on my eyes and will inevitably smudge, fade and flake by mid-day- leaving me looking more like a hot mess than a hot mama.

For the sheer obliteration factor of pencil liners, not to mention the pulling and skipping… I’ve always stuck to gel or liquid liners, where a perfectly smooth application is guaranteed and many have the added bonus of a long-wearing formula.

Leave it to uber-designer Marc Jacobs and the king of ‘guy liner’ himself to come up with a great solution.  Like a gel pot eyeliner encased in a pencil, this gorgeous product features the silky smooth glide of a liquid or gel liner, with the soft, blendable result of a pencil.  Best of all, once you’re done lining with ease, it sets in place within seconds for all-day waterproof wear that doesn’t budge.  Even in the waterline!  This genius product also features a built in sharpener for a perfectly sharp line every time, and intense color payoff available in the most gorgeous richly pigmented shades including ‘Blacquer’, the perfect ‘go big or go home’ black.

So channel your inner rock chick with easy, sexy, amped-up eyes in an instant that stay put all day and night.

OGX Kukui Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

You know how sometimes the shampoo you've been using for months and months with perfect results just all of a sudden stops working? Like, one day you look like you just walked out of an Herbal Essences commercial and the next your hair is like a bad 80s flashback? This scenario was me a few weeks ago which sent me on a massive hunt for a new miracle shampoo. Little did I know it was right under my nose in the shampoo aisle at Shoppers Drug Mart. This unlikely find is my new go-to for crazy shiny, squeaky clean, ultra manageable hair.  Containing an exotic blend of Kukui Nut Oil, which is apparently the secret in Hawaii for frizz free hair, this gem creates a shimmering veil to smooth my naturally frizzy texture and repel humidity like a charm. Paired with the Kukui Oil conditioner, let's just say that lately there have been a lot more good hair days! 

Nars Smudgeproof Eye Shadow Base

How many times have you carefully crafted your eye makeup just to have it disappear and fade within just a few hours? Whether you’re a ‘smoky eye’ girl or natural is more your speed, spending time and effort on ‘the windows to your soul’ will be tossed to the wind unless you have a good base underneath to keep it ‘freshly applied’ looking all day long.

For me, the perfect primer has been hard to come by… until now.  I’m now several tubes in of this lightweight, colorless NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, and I officially cannot live without it.

As paraphrased from the Nars website, This creamy, lightweight eye primer is an insider ‘trick of the trade’, creating a seamless canvas that keeps cream and powder eye color looking brilliant and fresh all day. A polymer and mineral-powder blend establishes a firm grip on color, ensuring hours and hours of gorgeous wear.  Fortified with a special deep-sea extract and an antioxidant rice extract, Nars Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base takes just seconds to dry and keeps the delicate eyelid smooth and prepared for color application.

HOW TO: After applying your skincare, use the applicator to dot some product on each eyelid (a little goes a long way) and pat it in up to your brow bone.  Allow a few minutes to dry and you are ready to roll.   Your powder/cream shadows and liners will apply like a dream without any budging, smudging, creasing, or moving- even during the most sweltering of summer days.  Its truly a miracle to behold!!

Bottom line, my friends… After years of experimenting with different primer products, including Laura Mercier Eye Basics, Mac Paint Pots and Urban Decay’s famous Primer Potions, Nars Smudge Proof has blown them all out of the water, winning it a permanent spot in my makeup bag.

Hourglass No. 28 Lip Treatment Oil

In the last few years, oils have literally exploded in the beauty world.   I already love them for my face, body and hair… so when I first caught wind of the Hourglass No. 28 Lip Treatment Oil, I knew I had to get my hands on it.

This gem is no ordinary lip balm, its like the Rolls Royce of lip balms. The packaging is stunning, housed in a shiny brown tube with a 24-karat gold tip for dispensing the super-luxe treatment.  Yes, you read that correctly… A 24-karat gold tip, for applying this super-hydrating, anti-aging treat for the lips.

Recently added to the company’s permanent line for summer, Hourglass Lip Treatment contains a blend of vitamins and 28 cool plant compounds and essential oils.  And… did I mention the 24-karat gold tip?   Sure, it’s gimmicky… but the minute I tried it I was hooked.  It feels like a dream on my lips… all cool, soothing and ultra-hydrating.  In a word… totally addictive.

Straight from the horses mouth, AKA The Hourglass website…This uber-luxurious lip oil is, “An advanced anti-aging treatment for lips that combines botanicals, vitamins and three powerful active ingredients in a supremely luxurious oil blend. No. 28 Lip Treatment Oil hydrates, rejuvenates and regenerates the delicate lip area by boosting moisture levels, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and improving lip shape, volume and softness. Equipped with an opulent 24-karat gold-plated anti-bacterial tip—it’s the gold standard for lips. Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic dyes and petroleum derivatives”.

I love Hourglass Products… they are innovative, super-high quality and the packaging is beautiful.  If you’re looking for a rich emollient, anti-aging balm that will hydrate like nobody’s business; provide volume you didn’t know you had; and over time, smooth lines and wrinkles, then this product is for you. At $40-ish dollars, it’s a splurge. But, you’re worth it.