Poppin' and Lockin' with Clearasil


This morning I attended one of the most exciting events I've ever gone to. Michelle Tractenberg hosted Clearasil's Pimple Blocker Battle, in celebration of the launch of their Ultra Pimple Blocker Pen, $9.99. Five teenage dance crews competed at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square to become Clearasil's first ever dance crew. (Think America's Best Dance Crew teenage style). I've posted about this upcoming competition before, but didn't expect it to be so big.


I got to meet all of the celebrity judges which included Drew Lachey, Alyson Stoner (the white chick who's in all of the Missy Elliot videos, she rocks) and choreographer to the stars, GEO. Hundreds of people watched as the crews gave it their all for the $10,000 prize pack that was up for grabs.


Two were chosen off the bat to move onto the final round, but it took an intense freestyle battle between the remaining three crews to determine their fate. I've never seen anyone bring it harder than a crew from Boston called "Spot Stompers." The judges agreed and they joined the "Ultra Cru" and "CompleXion" in the finals.


Now it's up to you. Check out the videos of the crews performances from today's event online here between April 9th and May 9th to vote for the crew that you think deserves the title!

Watch Those Expiration Dates

Just like skim milk, your over-used and abused Visa card and your gym membership, beauty products expire. Most brands have been clearly labeling their products with expiration dates right on the packaging.

Cargo stepped it up a notched with their latest lip gloss that incorporates Timestrip technology. It's a tiny strip that's embedded in the cap of the lip gloss and automatically keeps track of how long it's been open. After nine months, the window displaying the strip turns red and alerts you that it's time to toss it. Cargo blue_ray High Definition Gloss is available here for $24.

Just an FYI: You should replace your mascaras and liquid liners every three to four months and foundations every two years.


Kinky Beauty

The trend of vibrating beauty products is becoming increasingly popular. I believe it started in the personal care market and remember when toothbrushes began to vibrate, promising a just-left-the-dentist clean.

The latest must-have vibes on the market now are mascaras. Estee Lauder TurboLash All Effects Motion Mascara, $32, and Lancome Oscillation, $34, have stepped up their wands with battery operated brushes that help to better separate lashes and avoid clumping.

To provide a "sensual shaving experience," (you can interpret that how ever you'd like), the Gillette Venus Vibrance Soothing Vibrations Razor, $12.23, is battery operated and the vibrations are said to minimize nicks and cuts and help with exfoliation. Many brands are also making vibrating face massagers for deeper cleans. I've been using the Neutrogena Wave, $15.99.

To my surprise, I also found a vibrating straightening iron, Hair Tools Pink Vibe Straightener, about $150. The vibrations keep your hair from getting stuck and allow for an easier glide while straightening.

They're all vibrators you can add to your daily routine and you wouldn't be embarrassed to brag about! I can't wait to see what they come out with next.

Investigation: Benefit Face Powders

I heard about Benefit's new face powder, CORALista, and being that I've been a fan of the brands older face powder, Dallas, I decided to head to the Benefit cosmetic counter at Bloomingdale's to check it out.

The sales rep was wearing it on her cheeks and it popped beautifully against her olive complexion.  She offered to put it on for me, but I'm always afraid of those testers so I decided to pass.  I did however swipe it across the back of my hand to see how it would look on my skin tone and it was a pinky-coral with pretty sheen. Bought it.

The conclusion: CORALista is a great spring/summer buy, but my fave, Dallas, is wearable all year long.

Benefit CORALista, $28 is available here.

Sikest Nails Ever

I met this awesome chick named Lucia who was rocking the best mani/pedi ever. I was shocked when I caught a glimpse of her metallic leopard print fingertips! Then when she showed me that her toes were coated in silver metallic too. I had to ask questions.

The answer: Minx Nails. She got them done by Beyonce's manicurist, Lisa Logan, who hooked her up with Minx for her "Single Ladies" video. She's also been B's regular manicurist for the past four years. I got the scoop from Lisa...

Minx are flexible polymers that are heated up by a 250 watt lamp and applied directly onto your nails (natural or tips) like stickers. They're presized, pressed, heated and rubbed on, then filed down with a glass file to fit the size and shape of your nail. The average cost is $50 per set and as long as you take care of them they can last longer than regular polish. (Beyonce's lasted about two weeks). I think they're perfect for a special occasion and can't wait to get them done.

"Adding fun to your manicure should come first and foremost," commented Logan. In case you're not into leopard print like Lucia and I, they have multiple designs to choose from to fit every personality. Click here to find out where you can get Minxed by you.

*If you're in the New York area and would like to get hooked up by manicurist to the stars, Miss Lisa Logan herself, comment below and I'll make it happen.


What's Up with Men and Their Brows?

I'm super picky when it comes to men and even pickier when it comes to brows. Being a single NYer who pays particular attention to grooming (yes, even at happy hour after a few Michelob Ultras), I'm having a serious issue with men and their brows.

For me, finding the right balance in a guy is like finding a guy with brows that are done just right.... well, almost. In New York, it seems they're slickly waxed to perfection (better than mine), not maintained at all, way too bushy, ones that are begging to be trimmed and I've even caught glimpses of a few uni-brows wandering the subways.

Maybe it's because most of my friends would say I tend to be attracted to "guidos." Don't even get me started on their brow situation, but they're not the only ones with the problem.

Have you ever been turned on or OFF by a man's brows?

Lipstick Effect

It's been reported back in 2008 by the New York Times and other outlets that during recessions lipstick sales sky rocket and it makes complete sense.


During this time of economic troubles, it's wise to purchase small, comfort items rather than splurge on designer clothing and other types of luxury items. Therefore, why not invest in a beauty product that will last and make you feel luxiourious and feminine each time you wear it for a very affordable cost? Red lipstick. Genius.


Here are some vivid finds for every budget:

Topshop Opens in NYC


The highly anticipated moment has arrived! Kate Moss was in town to cut the red ribbon and celebrate the NYC grand opening of British retail chain, Topshop, with Sir Philip Green. How stunning does she look?

The store opened its doors promptly at 11 this morning and the Soho streets were lined with anxious shoppers. I'm going to check it out after work tomorrow, but heard I missed out on some great giveaways today including Topshop gift certificates and Pink Berry! There was even a van driving around NYC handing out $500 gift cards to promote the new store.


The Kate Moss collection owns 700 sq. ft. of the store and Jonathan Saunders and Preen are said to be starting collections there as well. Even if you don't live in NYC, you can still look chic with Topshop by shopping online.


A Day with Tyra

Tyra Banks... love her or hate her, she's an extremely successful woman. I spent my whole day backstage during the taping of one of her beauty segments thanks to my friend Jessica who brought me along because she was going on the show to model her lusciuos lashes.
She uses RapidLash, a lash and brow renewal serum that normally takes about 30 days to show results, but Jessica told Tyra her lashes were hitting the lens' of her glasses in just two weeks.

We arrived at the filiming at 12pm and the producers were all very friendly and accommodating. Jessica seemed more excited than nervous for her national TV debut and I was excited to get a sneak peak. Right away we were taken into hair and makeup and to accentuate her lashes even more, the makeup artist layered DiorShow, $24 and Max Factor 2000 Calorie,$5.89 mascaras.

The segment began taping around 1:30pm and in front of a live studio audience of 160 people Tyra did her thing and Jessica looked fab as she batted her red carpet worthy lashes and gave a few winks.

Besides the rush and excitement of enjoying the segment's success, my biggest highlight was meeting the Editor-At-Large of one of my favorite go-to sites, DailyCandy. She was very sweet.

I'm using RapidLash regularly once a day and am dying to have lashes like Jessica's! You can find it at drugstores or Dermstore.com for $49.99.

Finally, A Non-Greasy SPF


I didn't realize how pale I was until I spent the past four days in sunny Orlando, FL and am now left with the most incredible tan lines, which I'm very proud of. Being that I'm a reformed fake and baker (big time), I used my beauty smarts and slathered on the SPF daily.


I owe my new found golden glow to DERMAdoctor Ain't Misbehavin' Skin Clarifying & Mattifying Sunscreen SPF 30. Not only did it protect my skin from UVA and UVB rays, but because it contains ingredients such as witch hazel and willow bark it kept my complexion clear so I was able to use it on my face and body. The best part... it mattifies so I didn't feel or look like I had a greasy substance on.


DERMAdoctor Ain't Misbehavin' Skin Clarifying & Mattifying Sunscreen SPF 30 is available at Sephora for $30.

Facial Debate

I often hear people discussing how they're in dire need a facial, but I never bothered to explore the reasons behind why they felt that way. Wasn't it obvious? Extractions? Maybe not.

The New York Times recently reported a debate between aestheticians and dermatologists on the effectiveness of facials. Doctors are suggesting that people have "unrealistic expectations" of what a facial can do for their skin and say that since they lack scientific evidence, they're a waste of money. However, considering the fact that facials make up $10.9 billion in the spa industry, aestheticians must be doing something right.

In all reality, no, a facial will not erase your wrinkles and make you look ten years younger. But if your expectations are managed and you get them for the right reasons, you will be pleased. A typical facial exfoliates, extracts and cleanses, leaving your skin feeling clean and moisturized.

Personally, I'm a big fan of facials, (especially the Mario Badescu European Facial) but definitely agree with The Times that if you have bigger skin issues, you should consult your derm.

Swipe It On and Strip 'Em Down

During my latest Sephora trip I came across a lip gloss like no other. It wasn't the vast variety of shades, not-too sticky texture, or the brush applicator that caught my attention. It was much, much more than that. A naked man to be exact!

The Urban Decay Pocket Rocket Lip Gloss, $19, comes with a man on the top of the tube and when you tilt it over the man strips down into his boxer briefs. Hot! It reminds me of those pens I used to get as vacation souvenirs with cruise ships floating back and forth in the water.
There are eight men to choose from depending on your type. My type is a cross between Timothy and Julio (without the kid). I'll take two! The formula contains Hyaluronic Spheres that fill in fine lines and wrinkles around your pout and all of the glosses taste like creme brulee. Check out the rest of the men on the market here.

Ban the Brazilian!?

The Garden State may soon be full of bushes! On April 14th the state Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling will meet to decide whether they should ban Brazilian waxing in New Jersey. This whole controversy stems out of two separate incidents in which women were injured and hospitalized from the risque waxing procedure. Regular bikini waxes will still be permitted.

Ladies, be careful of where you get waxed, and let the Brazilian live on!

Sports Fan or Beauty Guru in Disguise?

Last night a few of my single girlfriends and I decided it would be a good idea to go to our favorite bar to catch the college basketball games and possibly hook a cute sports fan. Caught by surprise, we ended up being very entertained by a group of guys who were very well educated on everything beauty.

Quote of the night: "I love your hair, those are called 'sweeping side bangs' right?" He even used the word 'sweeping.' Of course I laughed, but was immediately turned off.

A Heineken later he says, "You ladies look younger. You must be using really expensive moisturizer." (Little does he know I use Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Blemish Cream for $12.)

It's nice to be with a man who "gets it," but how much is too much?

Headband Hunger

Starlets such as your fave Gossip Girl character, Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), Nicole Richie and Katherine Heigl have all been spotted wearing headbands in all sorts of fashions. Whether your style is hippie chic, prep, trendy or you want to dress up a sophisticated updo there's a headband out there for everyone.

My personal favorite are those by Jennifer Behr. Her new Spring collection debuts the most gorgeous crystals. They're almost as special as wearing a tiara, which definitely fits my style! Katie Perry, Miley Cyrus and Paris Hilton are also huge fans of her hair accessories.



Luscious Locks

Before the Zac Posen show during New York Fashion Week I stopped by the Tresemme booth in the tent at Bryant Park to check out their latest launches. I was so excited when I learned about their 24 Hour Body line, because I have very thin hair that needs all the help it can get.

The line consists of everything from shampoo and conditioner to styling products, but my favorite is the 24 Hour Body Finishing Spray. It keeps my blowouts in check and adds volume and bounce without making my hair too stiff or sticky.


*Expert tip from the Tresemme stylist team:

To add voluptuous body, use a large round brush when blow drying to simultaneously smooth and add lift. First, place the brush at the roots and wrap a section of hair around it. Then, pull the brush down through your strands following with the dryer. Repeat a few times over each section as necessary and woo-la!, a salon-like blow out.


Chic Cheeks


I have a weakness for packaging and when I saw this new bronzing powder from Yves Saint Laurent I had to have it regardless of what it could do for my look. YSL teamed up with famed makeup artist, Val Garland, when creating this springs Palette D'Artiste, $62.


At first, I didn't want to mess it up by using it, but it wasn't long before I got over it and gently swiped a big brush across the whole palette. The combination of colors gave me a healthy pick-me-up. You can also separately use the brown stripe for contouring and sculpting and the pink for highlighting.

Click here to get your glow on.


Clearasil Searches for First Dance Crew


When I was young, Clearasil used to be my go-to line for everything skincare. Every once in a while I still get a zit here and there and I recently came across their Ultra Pimple Blocker Pen, $9.99, which you put on right as you feel a pimple forming. I decided to test it out, and sure enough, it stopped my zit from ever fully developing.

In conjunction with this new product launch, Clearasil is holding their first ever Pimple Blocker Battle in search of their First Dance Crew. Teenagers from all over the East coast auditioned for five spots to compete in front of a panel of celebrity judges including celebrity choreographer GEO, Drew Lachey and Alyson Stoner at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, NYC on April 7th. Michelle Tractenberg is hosting.


Three crews will move on and America will vote online. The winning crew receives a $10,000 prize pack! Check out some of the auditions on You Tube and stay tuned for a battle update!


Purchase the Clearasil Ultra Pimple Blocker Pen here.

Paris Fashion Week

Fashion Week is my favorite time of the year and one of the many reasons why I love being a New Yorker. Paris Fashion Week has just wrapped up, which featured Fall '09 collections of designers such as Chloe, Dior, Givenchy, Chanel and Miu Miu just to name a few.


There were a ton of updos. Many shows featured matte red lips on porcelain skin, while others drew attention to the eyes with thick black liner and false lashes.

Compared to New York Fashion Week, the Parisians tend to experiment a little more with color and creativity. I'm anxious to see how the looks will translate from catwalk to sidewalk. (photo from Christian Lacroix)


Subscribe

Sign up for yoga schedule updates, beauty product giveaways, and recipes.

Cart (0)