BeautySweetSpot — Jeannine Morris

grooming

Man of the Moment: Ryan

Ladies, meet my new "Man of the Moment," Ryan from Brooklyn, NY. He's a 24 year old musician who's also into drawing, fitness and "reading from time to time" and loves a girl with a full head of curly hair, which I think is awesome.  Read on to find out more... What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Crest toothpaste, whitestrips and the most expensive non-electric toothbrush I can find.  That’s one thing I've always splurged on. Old Spice "Playmaker" deodorant and Burberry cologne (that’s been my staple for a while now, might switch it up soon though).  I've always got some kind of sauce to throw in my hair too but that switches up a lot too.

 What product can’t you live without and why?

That's gotta be the toothbrush.  I’m an avid brusher and always try to have a dope one in the cabinet, can't stand the dollar store style brushes.  We do so much everyday with our mouths, gotta keep it clean.

How would you describe your grooming habits?             

About as good as they can be.  I've always made time to keep up on my grooming, it's definitely a big part of my day to day.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?             

I'm gonna stand by this one... having good hygiene is something that only I have control over, so I always find the time.  Plus, being fresh and clean just makes for a better more confident day.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do? 

All the bathroom stuff: Shower, Brush Teeth, Cologne.  Hands down.  Make sure my debit cards in my wallet (I know it's 2011 but I still like to pay).  Plan something fun... dinner and a movie bores the hell out of me, gotta keep it interesting.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do? 

It would be easy for me to throw out a crush like Meagan Good and say the obvious... but if I could have one night to hang out with a celebrity it would probably be Kanye West.  I just want to pick his brain and try to absorb some of the passion he has for what he does.  I'm definitely passionate about my craft but someday I want to be as committed, to the things I believe in, as he is.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman? 

Hair.  I love big curly hair.  It can make me look twice at someone I normally might not find attractive just cause they've got a big mess of hair going on.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Physically, it would be legs... gets me every time.  But I love a woman with a big heart, that's the most beautiful thing about a woman for me.  Someone who roots for the underdog, someone who truly cares about other people and put's others needs ahead of her own.

Man of the Moment: Sean

Ladies, meet Sean, a 29-year-old financial advisor who just moved out of NYC to PA and seems to have a really good sense of humor!  Besides sports (duh) he lists literature and music as some of his favorite things.  Sweet.  Read on to find out more about how he preps before dates, what he thinks of his grooming routine and more. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

You mean besides incredibly life-like hair dolls from all of the girls I have dated? I have a lot of Nivea products.  There is really no reason for that.  I mean, it’s not like I set out one day and said, “Sean, Nivea is the right product for you.”  It just kinda happened.  I’m talking Nivea shaving cream (or is it gel? Maybe foam? Not entirely sure), after shave, and body/face wash.  I use Garnier shampoo, because once in college this super hot chick told me my hair smelled nice and, well, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? I was also turned on to Tom’s toothpaste.  I used to stick to Colgate toothpaste, since I went to college at Colgate at all, but I think that Tom’s Wintergreen toothpaste is just the bees knees and brand loyalty only goes so far for me.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Air is definitely one product I cannot live without.  I mean, I could live without it for like, 37 seconds maybe, but after that things start to get pretty dicey.  I also think toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and other stuff that will prevent me from looking and smelling like I live under the Queensborough Bridge are pretty important.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Three words: Consistent, thorough, animated.  Merciless.  Insatiable.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Literally just asked this random chick sitting beside me in Starbucks.  She gave me a disgusted look, got up, and walked away.  I’ll take that as a tacit endorsement of my grooming habits.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Inflate the doll, dress her up in a real cute dress or appropriate seasonal attire, and try to make sure she stays away from all sharp objects until we reach our destination.  Oh, and I also like to make sure my breath smells good, my facial hair has been properly groomed, and I like to make sure my hair is comfortably styled somewhere between “I was at an Animal Collective concert at BAM last night I just got out of bed even though it’s 7pm” and “I’m a soulless Goldman Sachs drone”

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Clooney.  And I would do whatever leftover chick he didn’t sleep with that night.  Seriously.  I mean, Do you think George Clooney ever sits up at night and worries about what is going to happen to him in his next life? I mean Christ! How can anybody have this awesome of an existence? Oh I just dumped Elisabetta Canalis so now I’m just going to plow Stacy Keibler for a couple months for fun. No biggie. Nothing serious. Just a little flingy poo. He must have signed a deal with the devil or something. No other way to explain it. Here is a question for you: If somebody told you that you could have George Clooney’s life but you’d die at age 40 would you do it? I’d do it in a heartbeat. All I need is 29 years of his life and I’d happily call it a day.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Personality.  Ha, no, but seriously, I’m not really a “tits” man or an “ass” man or one of those weird fetish guys who like feet or hair or anything like that.  I like the whole package and I don’t discriminate against race, creed, or height.  Equal opportunity: It’s not just a hiring practice at McDonald’s, it’s also my dating philosophy.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Besides the 9 year old Filipino boy tied up in my basement?  I guess I’d have to say that being a die-hard fan of the Emmy award winning (note: I have done no actual research to determine if any Emmy awards were in fact won by this franchise, but I have to assume that many were) television series The Bachelor and, it’s ugly step-sister, The Bachelorette.

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Kyoku Sake Infused Shave Creme for Him

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This Japanese skincare company seems to know a thing or two about marketing to men – just add alcohol.  Kyoku, a men's skincare line made out of all natural ingredients from Japan, highlights sake as a key moisturizing ingredient in their shaving cream. Of course, I had Joe (the BF) put it to the test against his stubble.  He was an immediate fan of the cooling feeling and familiar menthol-like scent, but the directions annoyed him.  "Apply to wet skin with fingertips and let rest for two minutes."  Since he shaves daily, Joe's not the type of guy who has an extra two minutes to add onto his grooming routine. If your mans into really pampering himself, this stuff is essential.

A combination of silicones and yes, pure sake are to thank for the smooth shave. Available in normal and sensitive skin formulas for $34.  You can find it at Barneys or online.

Man of the Moment: Benjamin

Ladies meet Benjamin, a 26 year old New Yorker who works as an editor at a publishing house.  Read on and you'll see he's quite the character!  And every time I feature a new Man of the Moment someone always asks, "Is he single?"  So yes, he is! What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Probably a lock of hair from the girl who last slept over, a picture of my mother, and my emergency stash of Alizé. Actually, though? Looks like some Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and deodorant, some type of hair gel for curly haired people (currently it appears to be made by Garnier Fructis), Kiehl’s face lotion, Vaseline for Men body lotion. Oh, and I hate cologne. It’s for people with crispy hair who use the word “classy.”

What product can’t you live without and why?

Hmmm is whisky a product? Because I’m pretty should that would be hard to live without. Also, I have a miniature Biggie Smalls figure that sits on my bookshelf, and he would be hard to part with. Can’t live without? I don’t know… soap? Toothpaste? Can anyone now live without that?

How would you describe your grooming habits?

“Grooming habits?” Am I cat? That brings me to a more important issue. Cats are awful. I’m a dog person. Particularly lazy, fat, all-white English Bulldogs.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

She’d probably say that I’m eerily similar to the Old Spice guy. In both looks and scent.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Brush my teeth, shower, and make sure I’ve queued up enough Taio Cruz, Waka Flocka Flame, and Usher feat. Pitbull for a late night DP at my apartment, which I try to always keep stocked with a variety of drinks…you never know. [Note: DP = DanceParty.]

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do?

Myself. Next question. No, but this is so tricky because who knows how shallow and awful they’d actually be. I’m basing my choice of Mila Kunis off of how down to earth she seems in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. But then what if she turns out to drug me and drive me to kill myself like poor Natalie Portman. Okay, so scratch that. Let’s do a dead celebrity. I’m thinking Teddy Roosevelt. That guy took a bullet straight to his chest, didn’t flinch, then stood up and gave an hour long speech. Plus I heard he could do a sick Dougie.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

It may sound crazy, but I always notice girls shoes. A sweet pair goes a long way. Doesn’t have to be heels, but just make sure they’re dope. Old Uggs in public make it look like you have two broken ankles. I get it, I know they’re super comfortable. But I don’t wear my old ass slippers out of the house. You shouldn’t either.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

I don’t really have a type, but ambition (both intellectually and physically), humor, and adaptation are key. The last one may seem strange, but here’s what I mean: you should be able to schmooze at some cocktail party with me, and, say, Mike Bloomberg, one second, then be in high-top sneaks, rocking out to Lil Weezy the next.

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Undateable: The Grooming Edition

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There are so many things that make a man undatable.  I'm sure you can create an indepth list, but take it from me, a girl who finally found love after being single in NYC for years.  Ladies let me tell you, it all begins with grooming. Here's my list of what makes a guy undateable from head to toe and yes, everywhere in between if you know what I mean. If the subject has a uni-brow or brows waxed to perfection he is undateable. There is no excuse for a uni-brow. If there was a woman in his life at some point, she would have helped him take care of this situation. So chances are, he looks stupid and has no clue about dating to begin with. Or maybe he actually likes it. Don't barbers normally do something about those? And Guido brows... don't get me started.  They're a strict no, no. This normally signifies that he'll always be more prim and proper than you are in every way. Undateable.

If the subject has dirty fingernails he is undateable. Dirt underneath the nails, bitten cuticles and uneven (ouch) bitten nails equals unsanitary conditions. I'm not saying all men should be lining up for weekly manicures, but the way they take care of their hands often signifies how they like to represent themselves.  And he wants to touch you?  Forget about it.

If the subject takes longer than you to get ready he is undateable. Ladies, do you really want to sit around and wait to go out while Romeo primps? Ew, no. Undateable. Shit, shower and shave.  After all, he is a man.

If the subject doesn't understand how to maintain the land down under he is undateable. You know what I'm talking about. Trim? Shave? They need to do what they have to do, but neatness is necessary. This is 2011 and you know you're keeping it up so why shouldn't he?  No one wants to get lost in the forest while trying to find the goods.

If the subject wears a "wool sweater" year long (or ever) he is undateable. Yes, they're out there... men with hairy chests, shoulders and backs. Their body surrenders to the hair and they accept it! Not OK. There is no excuse for anyone to be that hairy or close to it. Men, I'm not saying to go wax your body, but severe maintenance is necessary. Do you really think a girl wants to run her hand on your chest and get tangles in your nappy hair?

If the subject's toe nails scratch you between the sheets he is undateable. It's as simple as a toe nail clipper. Please.

So ladies, watch out for these types of men. For some you may be able to tell if they're undateable right away. Others may surprise you as you get more intimate, but hey, it's all part of the dating game.  Right?

What other grooming habits make men undateable?

More Men Seeking Plastic Surgery

When I hear people talking about someone getting plastic surgery nine times out of ten I automatically assume they're talking about a woman.  A nip and tuck here and there is so common these days it's almost like going for a cut and color.  Almost... However, it's not so safe to assume all of the nips and tucks are being done on women.  According to recent statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgery, facelifts for men increased a whopping 14% in 2010. Liposuction, too, is on the rise with men, increasing a respectable 7%.

Reason for the spike?  Competition in the workplace.  So it's not just us women who have to look the part to play the part.  Interesting.  Instead of focusing on their youth and detailing every line and wrinkle, men have been looking to their jawlines for a quick fix.

Man of the Moment, Jeremy

Hi BeautySweetSpot readers!  I have a new 'Man of the Moment' for you this week, Jeremy, 33, from  Boston but lives in NYC.  He's in Digital Marketing and loves to swim, fish, boat and lift weights... yes, he's single.  He's the type of guy who chooses Angelina Jolie over Jennifer Aniston, but if he were to take any celeb out on a date he'd choose Teresa Palmer.  Check him out: What's in your medicine cabinet?

A wide assortment of Chanel men’s products: Platinum Egoiste deodorant, Platinum Egoiste bath and shower gel, Allure Homme Sport hair and body wash, Pour Monsieur after shave moisturizer, Men’s Lab products: Mulit-action face wash, Invigorating face scrub, Power wash, Power protector SPF 50, and Tend Skin.

I’ve been a big Chanel products fan since receiving a gift set in college for the holidays. As a guy, I get told I smell often, so it’s worth it. Men’s Lab makes quality products; I especially like using the face scrub before shaving and use the Power protector w/SPF 50 daily including as a sunscreen during the summer.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Chanel Platinum Egoiste deodorant. I have these hidden away all over the place (gym bag, bedroom, medicine cabinet. etc) and buy several at one time. I’ve used this product for so long I can’t imagine not having it. I’m a creature of habit.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Despite the long list of fancy metro sexual products, I consider myself to be a low maintenance guy. On a typical day, I jump in the shower, slather myself up with one of the body wash’s from head to toe, floss, brush my teeth, rub some moisturizer on my face and I’m off 5 min later.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Kind of impressed. I’ve had some help along the way from past girlfriends. The Chanel products seem to be a crowd pleaser.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Shave, mouthwash, and get a little more diligent with the body wash.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Teresa Palmer. She’s incredibly beautiful, she has an Australian accent, and in the trailer for “I am Number 4” she’s kicking ass in a black leather jump suit and walking away from explosions without looking behind. I would spend a day with her on Cape Cod, boating to the Vineyard, biking around the island, eating lobster rolls, and lying on the beach until the sun went down.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Am I seeing her for the first time from the back or front? Nothing trumps a pretty face.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Good skin and toned arms.

AXE is Tempting Me Again with Excite, Plus A Giveaway

You all know I'm a huge fan of AXE scents and it just so happens that my boyfriend, Joe, is too. Therefore, when I first heard that they were coming out with a new scent called Excite, he was the first person I called and we put the new collection to the test. Being a dedicated user of AXE in Leather, Joe's open to experimenting with new products from brands that are familiar to him.  I'm a lucky girl! So were the results as dramatic as the commercials?  Did he spritz it and find me running over to him from the other room to tackle him?  No, but as AXE says, it did "make the nice girl sin when tempted."

This new collection is more woody than the rest and blends notes of coconut, hazelnut and caramel.  It's not out on drugstore shelves until June, but I'm giving away 3 sets of the collection to 3 BeautySweetSpot readers!  Read on for deets on how to win:

Comment below by telling me what tempts you about your man and RT the givewaway on Twitter.  My handle is @BeautySweetSpot.

I'll announce the winner under the comments section here on April 30th.  Good Luck!

*Note: This is a sponsored post, but my actions and opinions are true.

Introducing the Man-i-Cure

Last week I received a press release for a Man-i-cure from the first OPI Concept Salon called the Rob|B Salon in Studio City, CA.  It caught my attention not only because I love writing about men and grooming, but because I've been wanting my boyfriend, Joe to get a man-i-cure and pedi with me for quite some time and he wants nothing to do with it. The man-i-cure break down:

  • Cleansing – the first step to any manicure (male or female) is soaking and cleaning the nails. This is important because dirt, bacteria and illness causing germs can live underneath the nail and this is a great way to rid your fingers of this.
  • Shaping – ideal for keeping each nail looking uniform and a great way to rid the nails of rough edges, hangnails, rips and tears.  A must have step for men who want their nails to look even.
  • Cuticle work – cuticle care and maintenance help build the overall health of the fingers and nails but is very often overlooked by men. The cuticle needs to be hydrated and properly nourished so that it can promote a healthy nail bed.
  • Hand care – exfoliation treatments such as sugar scrubs are an effective and easy way to get rid of rough skin leaving behind a much smoother hand.  Hydrating lotions are also applied to moisturize the hands so that they become much softer.
  • Nail Buffing – designed to completely smooth out the nail and offer a low shine, this step leaves the nail looking extremely healthy.

I think it's important for men to keep up their hands!  What do you think of men getting manis?

Man of the Moment: Tim

Ladies, meet Tim, a 27 year old cutie from Hoboken, NJ.  He's a VP Portfolio Manager and loves to play ice hockey, go to the gym and snowboard.  And yes – he's single! What’s in your medicine cabinet?

  1. Gillette Mach 3 Razor- no cuts, no crying, smooth every time…. Just like me, lol.
  2. Neutrogena After Shave Balm
  3. Neutrogena Face Lotion with SPF 15- Look Young, Live YOUNG!
  4. Degree for Men Deodorant- keeps you cool in the hottest of situations
  5. John Varvatos Cologne- My little secret (not so much anymore I guess) but remember smell is the #1 sense tied to memory… the ladies love it and they always come back for more.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Most products I can go without, but a toothbrush is a must have. Your breath can turn south at any moment  (food, coffee, morning breath, etc.) and who knows when your lady wants to get intimate or if you are going to meet your next big client. The last thing you need is your breath barking something nasty.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I’m a clean cut guy… clean shave, clean cut hair and well dressed (clean those shoes). A shape up (haircut) normally happens every 2-3 weeks and I try for a straight razor shave (if you can find a barber in NJ with the license). Keep those lines tight, just like your game.

My people at The Hoboken Man (www.hobokenman.com) take care of the basics for me, even a clean up between haircuts. I think the ladies appreciate and see effort in a well-kept man. It shows discipline and self-worth.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

All the ladies in my life, past and present, I think would agree, that I always smell good and I keep it fresh!

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

1. Shower up!

2. The secret weapon- a dash of cologne--- A little Johnnie V. to get lucky!

3. A RESERVATION- you need to have a good game plan. Don’t even tell her, make it a surprise, but make it good and make it count!

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Male Celeb: Some guys may think Tom Brady, because lets be honest, he is the man (Super Bowls and Supermodels), but I would like to spend a day with Leo DeCaprio. The lady-killer himself, hasn’t had a boring day in his life. We’d probably just hop on a jet to some crazy island party and rock out… Talk about a wingman, this dude nails down the women in his sleep haha.

Female Celeb: Mila Kunis….for obvious reasons. This woman is a complete smoke show. I’d like to shop-hop with this one. Close down a few stores and let her get her fashion on. Seriously, what chick wouldn’t like that? She seems like she is a good time no matter what. Later on our date, we would get those endorphins and adrenaline pumping at the gun range (www.westsidepistolrange.com), Now that’s something to get her excited in all sorts of ways! Now that the momentum has been built the night is only going to get better from there…  Hopefully she sees this and I get a call next week to implement the plan!

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

I’m going to be honest. I look at 4 things right off the bat. Top to bottom-

1. Eyes- The gateway to the soul. Evil or Angel?

2. Smile- I’m a funny guy so the smile comes out a lot.

3. Boobs- Big isn’t always better, but no one is going to complain about some big bombs.

4. Bootie- A girl’s bootie can tell me a lot. Good in bed, yes or no? Healthy, yes or no? Athletic, yes or no? That’s why boobs aren’t such a big item in my book.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

All women are beautiful in their own way, but it’s a combination of book and streets smarts that hits my sweetspot. Intelligent, confident and ambitious women are what I look for. I know one day she is going to manage her own business or even our awesome family.

Man of the Moment: Dan

Ladies, let me introduce you to Dan, a 26 year-old accountant from Long Branch, NJ who describes his relationship status as "in it for the long haul."  What a guy!  And I know his girlfriend, lucky lady!  He loves sports, fantasy football, exercise, outdoor activities, going to the beach and hanging out with buddies.  Here's a sneak peek inside his medicine cabinet and mind:

What’s in your medicine cabinet?

I don’t have a medicine cabinet, but if I did this is what would be put in it:  Old Spice High Endurance Deodorant, Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Lotion, Gillette Shaving Gel, Colgate Toothpaste, Burberry Cologne and after shave

What product can’t you live without and why?

Old Spice High Endurance Deodorant – for a guy that’s constantly moving, I need a deodorant that will last and Old Spice is the best there is.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I’m very simple when it comes to grooming. I’m definitely only a soap, deodorant and cologne kind of guy. But I always like to keep it neat and clean shaven.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Well, I’m always told by my girlfriend that I smell good, so I would say I’m doing okay in the grooming/hygiene department.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Shower, shave and brush my teeth!

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Model, Marissa Miller, because she is smoking hot and the Spokesperson for Captain Morgan. That’s a winning combination in my book! Not to sound cliché, but I would take her out to dinner overlooking the beach and then maybe just stroll along the water with hopefully some good conversation.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Facial features, especially hair and eyes.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Personality, good skin and…her butt!

Now for your preferences:

On her…

Heels or flats: heels, im 6’3”

Au naturel or all done up: Au naturel

Lingerie or in the nude: hmmmm, lingerie then nude

Boobs or butt: butt

Angelina Jolie or Jennifer Aniston: Jennifer Aniston

For you…

City guy or country type: Beach guy

Beer or wine: Depends on the scenery and occasion, but typically beer

New York or Boston: New York (Giants and Yankees all the way!)

Beer belly or six pack: Six pack (ish)

Boxers or briefs: boxer briefs?

Man of the Moment: My Boyfriend, Joe!

I'm so excited to kick off the "Man of the Moment" feature by introducing you to my boyfriend.  You may recall the feature "Man of the Week" that I retired, but due to popular demand, I'm bringing it back with "Man of the Moment," giving you a peek into the medicine cabinets and minds of real men a few times a month. Of course, what a better way to begin than to start with my boyfriend, Joe.  I thought it's about time you heard about him, especially since I tweet about him regularly and he so generously agrees to test out some of the men's products I feature.  (Yes, that's what you get for dating a beauty editor)!  Many of the men's posts I write are thanks to Joe.  He inspires them.  Have you ever heard of collar stays?  You will soon!

Joe's 30, from my hometown in Jersey, and ladies let me tell you, much, much more than a "Man of the Moment" (wink)  so I'm going to give you a little more detail.  He's in real estate and loves to work out, watch sports (Giants...ew, Yankees...score), looks amazingly handsome in a crisp suit, always has to match his socks, has a talent for cooking (especially Italian dishes) and is very family oriented.  His guiltiest pleasures... red wine, Neapolitan pizza, running, me (ha!), martinis, nice dinners and romantic comedies (for real)!

Meet my boyfriend:

What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Axe, Gillette, Cetaphil, Dove for men soap, GNC men's multivitamins

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Wash my hair, shave, rinse, wash my face... in that order.  I have a fogless mirror in my shower so I don't have to shave when I get out.  It's my favorite thing.  I like to be fresh.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Jeannine thinks I'm neat and loves the smell of AXE so she prefers... that to cologne.  She also hates that it takes me a total of ten minutes to get ready so I have to wait for her to finish.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

shower, make sure my clothes are nicely pressed and take a shot of tequila

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

The way she walks says a lot.  There's nothing sexier than a confident walk.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Well kept feet.  If a girl takes care of her feet she takes care of everything else.

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The New Year Brings the Best for BeautySweetSpot

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Happy New Year!  Just yesterday I began kicking off the year back in my NYC apartment after spending two weeks relaxing at home in Jersey.  It feels good to be back!  Time to grind!  Of course, I'm going to hit on some of my New Year's resolutions in this post, but trust me, they affect you too! How you ask?  Because I write about my interests and passions and one of them is working out... this is my year for toning the booty (and the whole lower half for that matter)!  So of course you should expect to find some tips and tricks on how to get in the best shape for your body time from some top personal trainers on BeautySweetSpot.

Two very popular features from the past that will be reappearing in 2011 are "Man of the Week" and "VIP Pass to the Industry."  For those of you who aren't familiar, I used to feature a different man each week and give you a peek into their medicine cabinets and fantasies.  This year, I'm going to be featuring a "Man of the Moment" and featuring them one or two times per month instead.  Know a man who may be good for the site?  Write in and nominate one!  These are regular guys off the street.  There are two qualifications:  they have to be sexy and successful.

"VIP Pass to the Industry" gives you a sneak peek behind the scenes of what it's really like to be a blogger, editor at a magazine or publicist in beauty or fashion.  I feel like there are so many movies made and books written on the industry that don't really give a fair glimpse.  Here, you can hear from the girls who are doing the jobs every day on what their days are like, perks and advice on how to get in.

Also on the site I'll be doing a lot more YouTube product reviews and such.  Of course, everything else you love will stay the same or just keep getting better with the opportunities I'm given.  I wish you all a happy, healthy and successful year.  Cheers!

An AXE Giveaway That'll Turn You (and Him) On

Last week I was talking about flirting with Flirt! cosmetics and besides mascara being a flirting secret weapon (wink) I have to say a sexy scent is an ultimate flirting must have.  Better yet, forget flirting. One whiff of an intoxicating blend can create  a complete throw-me-down-on-the-kitchen-counter reaction.  Ladies, you know what I mean. As a matter of fact, according to a study done by AXE, two out of three women admitted they would be more likely to make out with a guy on a first date if his scent was right.  I'm asking what's wrong with the rest of them?  There's something so captivating about a good fragrance, but a difference between a good scent and an I-want-you scent.  If men were smart, they'd all use scent as their secret weapon. Hey, I do.

I will admit that I have one scent (out of about seven that I rotate between) that's my signature sexy scent. Ladies, it turns guys on.  Everyone asks what it is, but I won't tell them!  Like I said, it's a secret weapon.

I strongly advise you to find your secret weapon and but better yet, help your guy out too.  AXE not only has their signature body sprays (which are intoxicating) but also hair care that smells sexy too.  I'm giving away full sets of shampoos to four different BeautySweetSpot readers so you can hook your men up!

The full giveaway includes one of each of their new scents: Downpour Refreshing Mint Shampoo, Heat Igniting Citrus 2 in 1 Shampoo + Conditioner, Zen Soothing Tea Tree Shampoo. Each scent is perfect for different times of day and your mans different moods and needs.  Trust me, he'll thank you.

To win...

Comment below and dish on what turns you on!...

Four winners will be selected at random on Sunday, October 3rd.  Good luck!

Only Real Men Laser Down There, Or Do They?

When the Brazilian revolution hit America, women stormed out to their nearest salon to get waxed. Now men are joining the hairless movement and getting their bodies lasered – even down there. What a relief for 99.9% of American women whose boyfriends suffer from looking like a wooly mammoth (do women actually date those guys?). When I was on the swim team in college, a male diver had chest hair was like Austin Power’s.  My teammate whispered to me, “If he has that much hair on his chest, imagine how much hair he has under his speedo.” From that day on hairless men has become the new rave. Most men want to be stylish and according to AskMen.com, their appearance is top priority. Men will do anything to impress women and that means removing their wool sweater.

"The latest male grooming trend is pointing the laser to the unmentionables –in addition to their brows, back of necks, backs, chests, and even knuckles," remarked Jennifer Kandemir of Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc.  So why remove the pubic hair?  Well, ladies you all know this.  Men are getting an ego boost from it because removing the hair around their shaft creates an illusion of a longer you-know-what.

Read more after the jump...

Men believe that having a hairless body is more appealing than having abs of steel.  Men are opting for laser hair removal over other methods to avoid cuts and ingrown hairs in such a delicate area, which is a perk for the both of you.

Each year the male clientele for laser hair removal gets younger and younger. Well if women are judged for having one tiny hair on her leg, I think it’s about time men are catching on!

Spring Clean Your Brows

Ah yes... you've heard it before, but I'm going to say it again.  Your eyes are the windows to the soul, but did you know that your brows can frame your whole face?   In between appointments it's important to keep them groomed.  I got the 411 from makeup artist and brow guru Robyn Cosio of Sally Hershberger NY and LA on how to keep them in tip top shape.  Here's how her clients Kate Bosworth, Nicole Kidman and Christina Applegate have been keeping their peepers in check:

  • Give Yourself Guidance - Don't just start plucking away.  Instead, use a pencil to fill in your desired shape so you don't end up overtweezing.
  • Add Color - Fill them in to give them an extra pop.  You want your brows to look noticeable.  If you're blonde, make them one shade darker than your natural color and if you're brunette they should be one to two shades lighter than your hair color.  Try products from Brow Diva.  They make the ultimate brow grooming kit and you can also purchase products individually.
  • Maximize Your Lashes - Of course you can add tons of mascara to compliment your newly shaped brows, but enhance your natural lashes with RapidLash, $50.  It's perfect for the summer because your natural lashes will be so long, you won't have to use mascara and worry about it running down your face on the beach.

Undateable: The Grooming Version

Lately I've been hooked on VHI1's Undateable.  It's so amusing that I've watched it fully once this week and since they've been showing it over and over, I have it on in the background when I'm blogging or getting ready to go out.  It lays out what makes a man undateable such as: pinkie rings, snakeskin shoes, bandannas, cell phone belt clips and types of flair that men rock (Neil Strauss calls this peacocking in his book The Game) to get attention or make them feel important.

I think being undateable goes way beyond peacocking.  It all starts with grooming.  Here's my list of what makes a guy undateable from head to toe and yes, everywhere in between if you know what I mean.

  1. If the subject has a uni-brow or brows waxed to perfection he is undateable. There is no excuse for a uni-brow.  If there was a woman in his life at some point, she would have helped him take care of this situation.  So chances are, he looks stupid and  has no clue about women.  Or maybe he actually likes it.  Don't barbers normally do something about those?  Guido brows are a no, no.  This normally signifies that he'll always be more prim and proper than you are in every way.  Undateable.
  2. If the subject has dirty fingernails he is undateable. Dirt underneath the nails, bitten cuticles and uneven (ouch) bitten nails equals unsanitary.   I'm not saying all men should be lining up for weekly manicures, but the way they take care of their hands often signifies how they like to represent themselves.
  3. If the subject takes longer than you to get ready he is undateable. Ladies, do you really want to sit around and wait to go out while Romeo primps?  Ew, no.  Undateable.  Shit, shower and shave.  He's a man.
  4. If the subject doesn't understand how to maintain the land down under he is undateable. You know what I'm talking about.  Trim?  Shave?  They need to do what they have to do, but neatness is necessary.  This is 2010 and you know you're keeping it up so why shouldn't he?  No one wants to get lost in the forest while trying to find the goods.
  5. If the subject wears a "wool sweater" year long he is undateable. Yes, they're out there... men with hairy chests, shoulders and backs.  Their body surrenders to the hair and they accept it!  Not OK. There is no excuse for anyone to be that hairy or close to it.  Men, I'm not saying to go wax your body, but severe maintenance is necessary.  Do you really think a girl wants to run her hand on your chest and get tangles in your nappy hair?
  6. If the subject's toe nails scratch you between the sheets he is undateable. It's as simple as a toe nail clipper.  Please.

So ladies, watch out for these types of men.  For some you may be able to tell if they're undateable right away. Others may surprise you as you get more intimate, but hey, it's all part of the dating game. Right? I'd love to hear your thoughts... what else makes a man undateable?

Axe Twist Giveaway

Women get bored easily.  This is new inspiration behind the new fragrance AXE Twist, which changes as it's worn. Starting off smelling fresh with hints of citrus and lime (to make a good first impression), then settling into deep earthy notes of cedar and sandal wood, which are more sexy, masculine scents (hello, what's your name again?) the fragrance keeps you interested.

I'm giving away 10 prize packs that include a Swiss Army toiletry bag filled with the deodorant body spray, deodorant stick, and antiperspirant stick so you can put them to test on your man!

Here's how to win:

1. Fan Beauty Sweet Spot on Facebook

2. Comment below by telling me what keeps you interested in a man

The ten winners will be announced Sunday, April 25th so be sure to check back on the below comments and Facebook.  Good Luck!

Man of the Week

Ladies, meet Michael, a 25 year New Yorker who works in bond sales.  His grooming habits consists of a cold beer, head massage and a hair cut.  Sounds like this guy likes to be pampered as much as he likes to party. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Well, not medicine.  Pretty simple stuff… Old Spice shaving cream & deodorant, Listerine, hair gel.  I also have two colognes: Burberry Brit and Chrome Azzaro.  I get next to no compliments when I wear the Brit, but Chrome has attracted any and all types of women from friends to randoms to even college professors.  It’s great.

What product can’t you live without and why?

That’s pretty easy.  Gel would be tough, but if a guy didn’t have shaving cream we’d all look pretty dirty.  Except for my friends that are still growing peach fuzz.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I shower regularly if that’s what you mean.  (Irish Spring soap for those wondering.)  If you mean down there, no more than once or twice a week.  Once regularly, but if there’s a party at a bar or something I’ll probably do it twice just to make sure.

I get my haircut about once a month (free plug: Esquires of Wall St. – 14 Wall St. NY, NY).  It sounds gaudy and over-the-top I know, but it’s the best barber shop out there.  Free cold beer, hot towel, and a head massage (don’t knock it till you try it fellas) at a cheap price.  For me, keeping your hair clean-cut goes a long way.

Have you ever gotten a manicure or pedicure?

No I haven’t.  I’m not really sure why any guy would, but maybe I just don’t know.  If there was a girl that I thought was cute that wanted to take me I wouldn’t say no.  I’d like to think I’ll try everything once.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Well that depends on what you mean by “night”.  A “night” would probably be with Bar Refaeli.  Prettiest girl in the game.  I would take her on a private jet and fly west, time zone to time zone, so the night lasted twice as long.  And if I were awarded this night, my product I can’t live without (from question #2) would change to Trojan Extended Pleasure Condoms.  Because let’s be honest.  Bar Refaeli.

Other than that, I want to have dinner with Barack Obama.  He’s a guy that really knows how to hone his talents.  I could probably learn a lot from him.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Her style.  A pretty girl is a dime a dozen in New York.  We all have our type and I notice a girl’s style right away.  If I like it, I’m interested.  If not, I move on to the next one.

Do you prefer a woman au naturel or all made up?

I think the right answer is au naturel.  I personally like it when girls get all done up.  There is a difference between a girl who is pretty and a girl who is hot.  Girls who are hot can get all made up and make you look twice.  And you gotta love that.

How about down there?

If I’m doing it at least once a week, she better be too.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

A girl’s smile.  I’m not elaborating on that because I can’t really describe what it is that I like about a girl’s smile.  I just know there are very few things that can make a guy weak and for me, that is one of them.

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