Behind the Look: Napoleon Perdis

Welcome to “Behind the Look” – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.

When I first met Makeup Artist, Napoleon Perdis, I couldn't stop smiling.  His positive energy lights up a room and his knowledge of painting faces surpasses many.  Trust me, you want to get to know this guy.  Here's his beauty advice, must-haves and use of donkey milk.

Describe the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately.

My latest Masterclass tour in Australia! I shared my personal makeup tips and tricks with my amazing partners across and taught them how I prepare a face for the everyday customer, runway, trend, and more.

What’s your beauty philosophy?

Beauty is about confidence and empowerment. You are in control of the image you project to others. Be the very best version of yourself you can be, and do it every day.

What are the top five must-haves in your kit and why? 

Optrex Eyedew Dazzling Eye Drops - These drops make the whites of your eyes pop immediately, helping to diminish any signs of fatigue.

Hand Sanitizer - Clean hands are a MUST when you are a makeup artist! Always store some in your kit and use before beginning makeup application.

Breath Mints - You have to get up close and personal with clients as a makeup artist and nothing can ruin a makeover experience quite like bad breath.

Glycerin - I mix this with water and put the combination in a spray bottle to create radiant, glowing skin all over the body on photo shoots. To really amp up the glow factor, I also mix in a bit of my Auto Pilot Radiance-Boosting Primer. The result is gorgeous, super shiny skin.

Brush Cleaner - It is imperative to clean your brushes after each use to keep them in top condition and for hygienic purposes. Always keep a bottle in your kit and spray on brushes after each client.

Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive?

Donkey Milk! Cleopatra was known to bathe in the youth-enhancing milk, and I took her ancient beauty secret and made it modern with my Auto Pilot Hydrating Milk Cleanser. It leaves skin soft, supple, and cleansed. It’s especially amazing for dry or mature skin. I personally use it on my face and body – and I’ll never turn back.

Spill your best beauty advice.

Never forget to bring out your inner celebrity! Treat every day like you’re stepping out on a red carpet. It sounds cliché, but when you look good, you feel good, and that translates to every aspect of your life.

What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?

Always use a primer! I can’t say it enough - not to prime IS a crime! One of the makeup mistakes women make is not allowing their foundation to become one with their skin, and primer is an easy but effective solution. It ensures a smooth landing for your base and keeps skin looking fresh all day long. My Auto Pilot Pre- Foundation Primer is gentle on skin and soothes the complexion for a flawless finish. If your skin needs an extra boost of radiance, my Auto Pilot Radiance-Boosting primer will lift and flatter the face thanks to its glow-giving properties.

Beauty Products that Last on BetterTV

I'm sure you've been skeptical about beauty product claims like "lasts 72 hours," so of course, I put them to the test and went on BetterTV to share my results.  Here are the lip, nail and hair products that really last.

New Year, New Fitness Goals

I wonder how many of you have new fitness goals for the new year?  I think it's safe to say 99%.  Whether you're making the commitment to join a new fitness studio or just to be healthier in general, this post is for you.  I was inspired to write it after having dinner with my best friends, Michele and Jarrett Hahn, who own M.O.V.E NJ Fitness & Performance in Hoboken.  The day after our double date (and indulging in a few bottles of wine), I was sprinting for the first time in years.  Here are my new fitness goals (effective immediately) that I'm sure will inspire you, too.

Change it up.  It's been one year since I moved to Hoboken, which makes it one year that I've been doing Local Barre classes about five times a week.  While I dabble in trying new fitness classes all over NYC, my main workout is barre.  "In order to cause change to your body composition you must constantly change up your workout regime," stated Jarrett Hahn, trainer and the owner of M.O.V.E NJ Fitness and Performance.  "The body will only adapt to new stimulus, meaning if you keep doing the same thing, your body will remain the same. Changing up your routine every 4-6 weeks would be ideal." I'm going to begin incorporating sprints and more cardio into my routine.  What are you going to do?

Push past your comfort zone.  It seems like common knowledge, but we don't always go for the extra challenge.  If you're doing something that feels somewhat comfortable, push yourself to the next level.  For example, I used to be able to plank for 20 seconds (comfortably).  Now, I'm proud to say that I can hold a proper plank for a minute and 30 seconds and am trying to get stronger each day.

Track your movement.  I've never worn a device that tracks my steps or how much I sleep, but out of curiosity I'm starting to wear the Tom Tom Runner Cardio GPS.  The heart rate monitor will help me stay on track when sprinting and help me keep my overall fitness goals.

Make a new playlist.  Music drives my movements.  How about you?  Creating a new playlist is just as good, if not better than buying new workout gear.  I love NYC DJ and my friend, David Hamburg's, mixes on Spotify.

Forget excuses.  This is my biggest problem!  I don't like to sweat, I like to glisten, which has kept me from cardio for a while.  Also, if I have a blowout... forget about it.  If we want results, there are no excuses.

Now it's your turn to inspire me!  Share your fitness goals for the new year below. 

*This post is sponsored by Tom Tom, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

5 Styling Products No Short-Hair Girl Should be Without

When you decide to cut your hair short, you're deciding not to allow yourself the option of up-dos anymore, which means in order to create different looks, you need to get creative.  As a former long hair to short hair girl myself, I can tell you styling different ‘dos is tricky, but that’s where these products come in. Here are our favorite styling products for short hair.

Jonathan Product Dirt, $26

Calling on all pixie cut ladies out there, this texturizing paste separates hair with great control and hold. Not only does it allow you to control the texture of your hair, but it also provides a luxurious shiny finish.

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil, $69

Serums like this are important in any hair routine due to their nutrients and moisturizing benefits. But those of us with short hair can't risk the stringy effect some of these products provide. It can weigh down the style and hide those layers, angles and fringe that make short hairstyles so desirable. That’s why we love Shu Uemura’s serum so much. Its formula absorbs into hair so quickly that it does not allow for the oil to create lanky undesirable hair.

Toni & Guy Texturising Glue, $14.99

Providing similar results as Dirt, this texturising glue works best for those longer-short- haired-girls for separating layers and fringe. While it provides hold, it looks soft within the hair. Just rub it in your palms and message up through the ends of hair to make those gorgeous layers in your bob pop.

Living Proof Instant Texture Mist, $26

This product is great for girls with hair from chin-length bob to a lob and anywhere in between. It sprays lighter than other more powerful texturizing sprays dispense, allowing you to build to the desired amount of product. Not only does it separate hair to give you gorgeous tousled look, but it also adds volume. And major plus, it works on damp hair or dry, so you don’t have to worry about showering before using it.

Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray, $23.80

No one likes when the hairspray hardens in your hair. But us girls with shorter hair simply just don’t have enough hair to counter the hardening effects (actually, does anybody?). Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray makes it easy to brush through hair without frizzing and damaging hair. In fact, the infused argan oil makes it healthy for hair, especially during the dry winter months.

3 Ways to Protect Your Skin this Winter

Is the heat on full blast in your home yet?  No matter where you live, winter will affect your beauty regimen in many different ways and not always for the better.  Take your skin for example.  The heat dries it out and cold weather chaps it.  (#winning)  Unless you stay ahead of the game, you could be in for a brutal beauty beating.  Here are some tips to ensure your skin beats the winter beauty blues.

1. Stay hydrated.  Yes, how you treat your body has a direct correlation on how you look on the outside.  I'm not telling you to make sure you drink eight glasses of water a day, but keep up with whatever works for you water, tea, hot chocolate.  Pick your poison.

2. Moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower.  Applying moisturizer to damp skin locks it in.  I'm currently using Curel Rough Skin Rescue Smoothing Lotion.  It makes my skin feel instantly soft, and is ideal for even the driest, flaky skin (my feet are bad!).

3. Plug in a humidifier.  It'll pull more moisturizer into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.  I sleep with one on nightly.

*This post is sponsored by Curél, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

Follow Dr. Neal Schultz's Advice For Better Skin

Since visiting Dr. Neal Schultz's new Peel Bar last month, I've seen him in office three times.  Seem a little extreme?  Maybe it is, but I'm anal about my skin and apparently, addicted to glycolic peels.  As one of the most intelligent men I know, Dr. Schultz hosts DermTV webisodes where you can get his advice without paying a visit to his NYC office.  Have a question about your skin? You def want to check it out.  Personally, I was battling dark spots from acne.  Gross!  Oh, you too? Here's the advice I got...

Live in NYC?  You can find Dr. Neal Schultz at 1130 Park Ave.

Behind the Look: Ammon Carver

Welcome to “Behind the Look” – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.  

In his downtime, NYC hairstylist, Ammon Carver, coifs stars like Kate Beckinsale, Molly Sims, Amanda Seyfried, Kirsten Dunst and Leighton Meester, but his most recent project has taken his career to the next level.  He just opened his own salon, with a twist – it's part photography studio.  Pretty cool, huh?  And his five must haves are essential enough for us all to take note of.

Describe the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately.

Aside from opening the Ammon Carver Studio, I am currently working on a project that involves providing a day of beauty to women in shelters for abuse. We will put together a team of hairstylists and done our time to make sure these women feel their most beautiful.

What’s your beauty philosophy?

Beauty begins within…if you want to look your best, it begins with being selective about what ingredients (food, and products) that you put in and on your body

What are the top five must-haves in your kit and why? 

Mason Pearson cushion bush….gives the best polish possible.

Fine tooth tail comb….perfect for backcoming and detailing.

Working hairspray, my go-to is Keratin Healing Oil Lustrous Finishing Spray…..buildable hold without any mattifying or flaking.

Hair bungee ties….ponytail and bun perfection.

Duckbill sectioning clips….keeping my work organized is the only way to create certain hairstyles….need to be able to cleanly separate the hair without leaving marks.

Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive?

Lately I love the aerosol Texture Sprays…Dry Texture Spray from L'ANZA is seriously amazing because it not only gives sexy, second-day texture, but it acts like a dry shampoo as well.

 Spill your best beauty advice.

Eat well, get good exercise…you would be surprised how good fitness and nutrition can affect your overall hair/skin/nails beauty.

What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?

I think all women with long hair should learn how to do at least a simple braid.  Braids are  a trend that cycles in and out more than any other.  They are a great way to secure annoying bangs, they serve perfectly for when your hair is under a hood during the winter, or when you want a fresh look at the beach…..learn how to braid your hair. You will open a ton of style options by doing so. Short haired women should learn to play with hair accessories to mix up their look.

Bridal Hairstyles for Any Occasion

We saw all kinds of low buns on during Fall 2015 Bridal Fashion Week. While it may seem like a very simple, standard hairstyle, the runways proved that stereotype wrong. With small braids, sleek twists and knots, the intricate details of these low buns are appealing in so many ways.  Of course, you don't need to be a bride to rock these chic updos.  See one you like? We’ve got the bridal hairstyle how-to’s so you can recreate them at home for any affair.

Sleek Twisted Bun at Carolina Herrera

We absolutely love this twisted delicate bun seen on Carolina Herrera’s runway. If you want to recreate it’s clean details, stylist Stephanie Belly says it’s all about keeping the hair straight and slick.

1. Start by applying a heat protectant on dry hair from roots to ends and rough blow-dry into the hair.
2. Next, slick back the hair using a generous amount of Kerastase Forme Fatale before pulling it back into a ponytail in the middle back of the head.
3. Then, flat ironed the ponytail until it's completely straight and apply a shine serum to the end of the ponytail.
4. Finally, create loop details. To do so, wrap the hair around three fingers, place an elastic over the loop for support and smooth the ends as you wrap and pin around the hair tie as to hide it.

Braided Bun at Marchesa

This braided bun, created by hairstylist Akemi Tamaribuchi, has just the perfect bit of a peek-a-boo braid effect.

1. Start by dividing your hair into two sections at the top and bottom and clip the top.
2. Next, create a classic braid on a 2” section on the right side of the occipital bone and secure it with an elastic.
3. Add subtle texture using Kerastase VIP on the lengths of the remaining hair.
4. Divide the remaining hair into two sections to create a soft side part.
5. Tie the sections into two knots, creating a large chain-type knot and secure with bobby pins.
6. Finish off by wrapping and tucking the remaining lengths into the knot using pins.

Knotted Chignon at Monique Lhuilier

Nina Dimachki created one of the more simplistic low buns seen, at Monique Lhuilier.

1. Start by applying a mousse like Kerstase Mousse Bouffante  to the roots and Ciment Thérmique from mid-length through the ends onto clean dry hair.
2. After blowing dry hair away from the face, create a center part and gather hair at the nape of the neck and secure into a ponytail.
3. Next, curl the ends of the hair and lightly sprayed a hairspray for hold.
4. To finish it off, create a tight, slightly asymmetric knot, tucking in the accessible curls underneath and securing with bobby pins.

What Beauty Editors Are Giving this Season

There has to be at least one person on your holiday gift list that you'll be buying a beauty gift set for!  Good luck stepping into a Sephora.  You're going to want everything!  Since my beauty writer friends and I have seen them all, I called on the troops to dish on what beauty gifts they're gifting this season to help you cut through the clutter.  Here are some of the hottest ones out there this season all under $50.

I'll be gifting the Urban Decay Black Magic 24/7 Glide-On Double-Ended Eye Pencil Set to a few people this year. It comes with four double sided liners in all wearable shades.  I think it makes a great gift, not only because I love Urban Decay liners, but also because people tend to purchase black or brown liner for themselves and this encourages them to play.  – yours truly Aromatherapy Associates Bath Jewels - This London-based brand makes the BEST bath oils, and every time I use mine, I feel like all of my cares drift away. The blends smell wonderful, and you need only a few drops to create a wonderful escape, so these little bottles will last a while. This is an especially good gift for people who are always taking care of others—it pretty much forces them to slow down and pamper themselves for once. - Annie Tomlin, TheGlowHow.com

I love the Benefit 3 Scoops O's Sexy, which boasts three tinted lip balms in their stunning, wearable shades for a sheer, pretty look. Benefit does festive packaging right; any gal would love to be on the receiving end of this set. - Amber Katz, Rouge18.com

Boscia Tsubaki Secrets is a pretty fabulous gift for just about anyone. I'm a personal believer in one, cleansing oil and two, a konjac sponge- it's the beauty item you never knew you'd love. - Jamie Stone, HonestlyJamie

I happen to extra super duper love this herbal tea from David's Tea, because it tastes like drinking a homemade caramel cake, smells even better, and magically has no calories. I'm giving it to all the gals in my family this year, and even though it comes in a chic stainless tin it's super affordable. - Bryce Gruber, LuxurySpot

I'm all about giving this season is a glamsquad gift card. I mean, seriously -- for $50 (10% off if you join their mailing list - and i mean, duh, obviously anyone would) - a stylist will come to your home or office (or anywhere you want, really) and give you a runway-ready blowout. I've had them come as early as 7 am, as late as 10 pm, and they are always amazing - that's useful for everything from job interview to booty call, which I think makes it the best gift of all. – Aly Walansky, ALittleAlyTude

I'm bringing every host a Givenchy's Les Mini Prismes this season. The packaging looks like those vintage steamer trunks that people used to bring on the Orient Express. Each drawer looks impossibly dainty but houses every makeup essential you need, from shimmery blush to saturated shadows to tools and a mirror. It's $39 at Sephora. Not bad, considering that a Givenchy Antigona bag will run you about $3,000. - Polly Blitzer, BeautyBlitz

I am obsessed with these mini Sugar Lip Treatments from Fresh! Not only do they keep lips hydrated (a must for the winter!), but they also leave just the amount of color and can be used under or over lipsticks. They also smell delicious and who wouldn't want yummy smelling lips for the holiday season?! - Andrea Arterbery, TheArtofBerry

I love spreading the gospel of lipstick, so this year I'll be giving the Lipstick Queen Discovery Set at Space NK, $48, which includes my all time favorite lipstick Medieval. It's the best translucent red in the world, and it looks good on every skintone. Plus, you get a classic nude and sheer, shimmery pink. So basically a lipstick for every occasion. One Lipstick Queen lipstick on its own is about $22, making this trio a really good deal. - Courtney Dunlop, youlookgreatingreen

Philosophy's Sparkly Time of Year - It's Philosophy- so obviously obsessed. Lip glosses are always fun to give because there's no such thing as having too many. While they may be stocking-sized products, it allows you to try out so many of their different delicious scents. It may give them a new favorite one!  – Emily Rekstis, BeautySweetSpot contributor

When it comes to beauty gifts, I love giving people gift sets from brands I adore so they can discover it for themselves too. Ole Henriksen is up there on my list of must haves, and this Unwrap Your Radiance set has my can't-live-without Truth Serum in it. – Sheyma Azam, BeautyandtheFeastBlog

Alexis Bittar for Sephora Liquid Gold Compact - This compact is a little sculpture you can keep in your purse. The size and shape make it easy to find in your bag. Also, it's  24-karat gold-plated, which is kind of ridiculous and amazing in a Wolf of Wall Street way. – Liesa Goins, freelance beauty editor

In the freezing winter with dry heat pumping through the vents, it’s important to hydrate your skin as much as possible. Kiehl’s Crème de Corps is so nourishing, and 100% of the proceeds from their limited edition holiday versions support Feeding America—that’s a win-win in my book. I love cute Normal Rockwell packaging this year, and the convenience of a pump. I think this jumbo bottle would put a smile on anyone’s face. – Joanna Douglas, Yahoo! Beauty

Multitasking Beauty Buys on New York Live

Want to know what my favorite multitasking beauty products are? Sure you do!  These days, with our busy schedules, if a beauty product doesn't have more than one use, it shouldn't exist.  On Wednesday I had the pleasure of doing a segment showcasing some of my favorites on New York Live with Lilliana Vasquez.  Check out the segment!

with gratitude...

Happy Thanksgiving BeautySweetSpot readers!  I love Thanksgiving Day simply because it's another excuse to get together with my family, but to be honest, I think highlighting the celebration of gratitude one day out of the year is BS.  I want to let you know that I'm grateful for all of you, as without you, I wouldn't be blessed with this career.  I encourage you to remember the feeling you have on Thanksgiving and carry it with you daily – practice gratitude, it's a lifestyle.  We all get so caught up in the grind that we often tend to forget about all that we have.  Live for today, in the present and be grateful for each moment, each encounter and each opportunity.  Have a great day!

7 Holiday Stocking Stuffers Under $20

Who doesn’t love seeing all of the cute holiday beauty collections and packages while shopping through Sephora? It’s almost as vital a part of the season as eggnog and caroling. With so many to choose from we totally understand how you can end up at the check out counter with more products than you have girlfriends. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best stocking stuffers on the market all for under $20.

L’Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats

One of L’Occitane’s most popular products is now compact into the perfect stocking size gift. And this deliciously smelling hand and foot cream is available at an affordable price of $20. Hard to beat, we know.

Tarte Ladies Who Lash Limited-Edition Picture Perfect Eyelash Curler

We’re a little bit in love with this limited edition pearl-decorated eyelash curler and mascara set. Not only will it help achieve gorgeous lashes, but the pearl handle on the curler makes it so easy to find in your mess of a makeup bag.

Bite Beauty Mix n’ Mingle Lip Minis

Another limited-edition, these lip gloss minis come in 13 different colors, making it easy to give to anymore. Not to mention they make seriously cute ornament-packaged

Essie 2014 holiday kit

What a treat this five mini bottle set of Essie polishes make for any beauty-lover. Five colors include Butler Please, Bahama Mama, Smokin’ Hot, Mademoiselle, and a little extra pop with the glitter-filled Jazzy Jubilant polish.

Bliss Mistletoe Gems

A two for one deal is as good as it get with stocking stuffers. And this mini high intensity hand cream and fabulips lip balm set gives anyone just about all they’ll need to keep moisturized during the bitter cold months.

Philosophy Snow Angel Ornament

We love this amazing seasonal scent and now you can have it seasonal packaging too? Perfect. While it may be a smaller size, the good thing about this product is that you don’t need to use a lot of it. It’s all about quality with this gift.

Fresh Verbena Oval Soup

Give a great mini gift with this gorgeous soup that not only smells great with a green citrus scent but also feels amazing on your skin thanks to the shea butter. Plus how chic and luxurious do these look?

Indulging on the Quantum of the Seas, Our Way

Did you see my Instagram pics from last weekend?  I was on a cruise!  That's right, Royal Caribbean launched a new ship, Quantum of the Seas, and invited Joe and I to set sail for two nights to check it out.  Let me tell you, I've been on Royal Caribbean cruises before with my family, but this ship is a game changer – especially for people like us – who like to indulge on vacation sans the calories.  Here's what I mean...

It's the first smart ship – ever!  I had wifi the entire time out to sea so I was able to Instagram my journey.  While that's a huge plus, one thing that I always loathe about cruises is the inevitable weight gain.  Twenty-four hour buffets, ice cream bars and bathing suits.  Not my style.  The new Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas however, was a place Joe and I were able to indulge in relaxing and staying fit.

Morning FlyWheel classes were followed by hours at the spa.  Yes, the ship actually had a FlyWheel studio, which was one of my favorite parts.  Overlooking the ocean, the gym had many fitness classes you could sign up for like TRX and more.  We didn't miss a beat.

The Vitality Spa offered everything from Botox to massages.  I indulged in a facial and massage, because with two days at sea, what else is a girl to do?  The massage was wonderful.

When it came to eating, of course being that it was all inclusive, we could have been disgusting.  However, we found a juice bar and really enjoyed the restaurants the cruise had to offer.   One of them, Devinly Decadence, is run by "Biggest Loser" winner and chef, Devin Alexander.  She tailored the menu to ensure nothing is over 500 calories.

Of course, the wine was flowing and deserts were abundant, but a healthy lifestyle didn't have to be sacrificed on this ship.  The Quantum of the Seas is our kind of cruise.

3 Makeup Tips we Learned from Georgia May Jagger

While talking with British model Georgia May Jagger at the Rimmel London Spring 2015 preview, we of course, knew she was going to be beautiful and charismatic, but it was a pleasant surprise to hear all the fantastic beauty tips she had. It was while talking about her beauty role models (Veronica Lake and Audrey Hepburn) and first makeup experience (Tinkerbell nail polish and Hello Kitty eye shadow) that Jagger also gave us some great insight on beauty tips and tricks she lives by. 

Take off your makeup

Think achieving model-perfect skin is difficult? Well according to Jagger, it’s not. It’s as simple as taking off your makeup before you go to bed, something we all fall guilty of skipping every now and again. “I know that it’s boring, but it’s one of the most important things I think you can do.” We have to say, we 100 percent agree with her.

Break the Rules

After explaining to us that her model mom, Jerry Hall, would just “show up to shoots with her makeup already done and they would just kind of pretend to do it,” she let us in on her favorite makeup tip she learned from her mom.

“I learned from her you can do a lip and an eye and a red lip in any situation and it doesn’t have to be tacky,” she explains. “I think there is a way to do everything so you don’t feel like your trapped.” Follow Jagger’s advice and go for that bold pink lip and metallic eye shadow. Just because they’re both bold doesn’t mean it won’t work.

Use Brow Mascara on Your Lashes

When showing off her favorite products from the new Rimmel London Spring 2015 collection, she even popped in a tip using the brow mascara in a way other than for grooming your brows. She suggested that after curling your lashes, apply the clear colored brow mascara to your eyelashes to separate and keep them from clumping.

Dying to give that last tip a try? The brow gel along with other new Rimmel products in the Spring 2015 collection will be available in January.

How to Create A Dutch Headband Braid

In honor of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, we must discuss braids.  Obvi.  I'm loving headband braids as they're "as practical as they are chic."  I turned to Jackson Simmonds, the Lead Stylist at the Julien Farel Salon at the Langham Place on Fifth Avenue, to get the step-by-step on how to create the look.  Turns out, it's easier than you think and makes for a great holiday hairstyle.

1. Prep the hair. Damp or dry hair works for this braid, just make sure it's well brushed. Remove all tangles and if fly-aways are present mist with water. Brush hair straight back with no part.
2. Gather your hair, starting with a piece from the top front. To include bangs, begin your section directly above forehead, otherwise start behind the bangs. Gather a piece ranging from 3-5  inches wide, and 1 inch thick.
3. Cross the right strand under the center strand.
4. Cross the left strand under the center strand.
5. Repeat the pattern and cross the right strand, then the left strand, under the center strand.
6. Cross the right strand under the center and pick up another small section from the right side of your head.
7. Cross the left strand under the center, and pick up another small section from the left side of your head.
8. Add more hair to your braid by picking up small strands every time you cross pieces under the center strand.
9. Continue the Dutch braid to the nape of the neck.
10. Finish your braid with a regular under braid when you run out of hair to add. Either secure with a small elastic or, to avoid the damage of a hair elastic, use my special trick - tease all the way around the end to lock in place.

Behind the Look: Joanna Vargas

Welcome to "Behind the Look" – a new feature that showcases the talent behind the looks we love – the real celebrities in my eyes.  

First up, Celebrity Facialist and Founder of the Joanna Vargas Salon in NYC, Joanna Vargas!  Known for perfecting the skin of A-listers like Maggie Gyllenhaal, Rachel Weisz, Naomi Watts and Julianne Moore to name a few, she has more than a few tricks up her sleeve, especially when it comes to getting celebs red carpet ready.  Ready to meet Joanna?  Read on!

What is the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately?

I've been working with three actors recently on their skin for specific movies they were all working on. It was fun to work towards creating the image of the character in the movie.

What’s your beauty philosophy?

I feel strongly that anyone can have great skin with the right tools.  The key is to use organic products based on what the skin needs to perform at its best.  Good nutrition for the skin will always yield the best skin you could ever imagine because the body assimilates natural ingredients so much better than products with chemicals.

What are your top five must-haves and why? 

Well, sunscreen is key for all women, all skin types, all skin tones. I love Eminence Organics mineral powder sunscreen SPF 30 in translucent. It is great because you can wear it with or without makeup, and it really helps protect the skin against sun damage and hyper pigmentation.

I always carry a packet of Dr. Frank Lipmans Recharge Shake because it contains a ton of amazing greens for the skin. If I don't have time to order a juice or if I'm just running around all day it's a great pick me up and a great way to keep on my program.

Bite Beauty makes an awesome lip primer. They are an organic company (of course) and the primer is great at erasing the dry lip line before you put on your lip color.

My own Rejuvenating Serum is something I keep in tow because if I'm feeling tired or like my skin is starting to reflect low energy I put a little on my cheeks and eyes- instant glow again from the neroli oil, which stimulates the circulation in the skin.

A hat! It's a non-negotiable for anyone who cares about their skin. Goorin Bros is my favorite of late- I have a beautiful collection!

Have you discovered any new products lately that you find impressive? 

I love African Botanicals Marula Oil for body- it smells incredible and it feels so good on the skin. I love it as a cure for dry winter skin!

Spill your best beauty advice.

Beauty is about what makes us unique and we should be trying to achieve uniformity. The reason I use non-invasive treatments in my salon is that I truly believe it's the right path to real beauty. And every woman I know will tell you that real beauty comes from how we feel about ourselves, not from what people tell us. My focus has been and will always remain on restoring confidence! But I preach to people every day: there is no magic solution- anyone can achieve the skin they want by doing the steps every day.

What’s the one tip or trick that you think all women should know?

Chamomile and green teas are not only great for you internally, but they are awesome for bathing or rinsing the skin in. If the skin feels stressed, dry and dull, putting them in your bath water or simply washing your face in the tea water will immediately calm the skin and brighten it. It's a great tip before you go to sleep!

Want to keep up with Joanna?  Follow her on Twitter.  You can also make an appointment with  Joanna Vargas at her 5th Ave. salon in NYC or try her skincare.

Get Inspired: Jenna Dewan-Tatum's New Cut

Looks like Khloe Kardashian gave her favorite hairstylist, Jen Atkin, a break this week. Jen instagramed a pic of Jenna Dewan-Tatum debuting a shorter style (pic above) with the caption, a "blunt ends long layered-straight out the salon" cut earlier this week.  Have a similar length?  Here's a step-by-step on how to style it from stylist, Derek-Peter Williams, who experimented with the fresh cut this weekend at the Hollywood Film Awards.  It may even inspire you to make the chop.

"Jenna had just cut her hair short and we were so excited to style it for The Hollywood Film Awards. We wanted it to be sophisticated, but still a little edgy and undone, " says Williams.

1. Apply volumizing products like Oscar Blandi's Volumizing Spray and Hair Lift Mousse to your roots and blow out your hair with a round brush for lots of fullness and body. Once dry, use a large curling iron and wave your hair, leaving the ends straight.

2. Go over random pieces with a flat iron to keep the waves undone and not so uniform. Set a side part and rubbed a dime-sized amount of texturizing paste in between your hands and run it through your hair to break up the waves and keep one side sleek behind your ear.

3. Finished with a texturizing spray like Pronto Texture and Volume Spray from Oscar Blandi to add lots of long lasting texture.

5 Lip Plumping Tricks

Who doesn't want full, plump lips?  Since Kylie Jenner may have a perfect pout, rumors sparked about lip injections, however the truth lies in makeup tricks. It's all about creating the illusion of bigger lips. With just a little makeup and use of lines and textures, you can make your lips look as full and voluptuous as the starlette.  Here are five tips:

Avoid dark colors

We love a plum lip color as much as the next person, but dark hue lipsticks make your lips look thinner and flatter. If you’re already self-conscious about having thin lips, you’ll want to avoid these deep hues.

Use A Dab of Gloss

Add just a little dab of high-shine gloss in the middle of your top and bottom lip. This draws attention to the plumpest part of your lip, making it the main focus. Using a color slightly darker than the color you’re wearing will deliver the best plumping effect.

Highlight the Cupid’s Bow

Using a nude or white pencil, draw a light “M” in the cupids bow and lightly blend. The light will reflect off this, making it seem deeper and more accentuated. This simple and easy trick makes a surprising difference on how full your lips look.

Create A Shadow

You can either take light brown eyeliner or a little bit of brown eye shadow onto an angle brush, and apply to the underside on the bottom of your bottom lip. This effect will make it actually look like you’re lips are creating a shadow underneath your lip.

Try the Right Products

You don’t need to have serious surgery, but it can go a little bit past illusions. Try using a lip plumper, which penetrates skin to support the natural collagen production while also providing a glossy finish to the lips. We particularly love this one by Laura Mercier, which comes in four gorgeous shades.

Finding Peace in the City that Never Sleeps

When I first met Gabby Bernstein back in April, I had no idea my life would be forever changed – for the better.  As a freelance journalist who thrives off of the energy of the hustle and bustle of NYC, I've found the time and interest to begin following a spiritual path.  Through meditation, Hatha yoga and workshops I'm more present and centered than ever before.  And this is only the beginning.

Years ago I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne and began practicing the law of attraction – if you think it and believe it, it will come – and it has.  Little did I know, that this was the first step in my spiritual journey.  When living The Secret, you are taught to retrain your thoughts of negativity and weakness (I'm so broke.) to positive, empowering ones (The check's in the mail.).  The positivity you project through your thoughts starts to become your reality.  Today, I credit The Secret for much of my success in business.

Then, I met Gabby Bernstein.  At a press event for Philosophy, Gabby began talking about her life as a spiritual teacher and educating us on practical ways to meditate in today's world, and I immediately wanted more.  One example of a practice she gave was about taking a "mental shower," in which you practice a breathing exercise during your morning shower to set the tone for your day.  (Breathe in for five seconds, hold for five seconds, release for five seconds.  Repeat.)  I went on to read all of her books, attend her workshops and now, practice meditation at the Integral Yoga Institute in NYC. The same place, she learned to meditate.

"Our mind is like a drunken monkey stung by a scorpion," Jyothi, my meditation teacher explained.

The breathing, chanting and vibration of meditation allows for a togetherness with complete strangers who I have zero attachment to.  I'm addicted.  I feel alive and present when I'm at the IYI and find myself craving the next time I can go back.  While I'm still trying to dedicate myself to meditating twice a day at home, the group meditation really works for me.

Now, not only am I practicing The Secret, but I've enhanced my life with Gabby's spiritual practices as well – to try to always be in the light by trying to bring forth my highest energy and elevate my state of joy.  Through forgiveness and willingness, I'm trying to vibrate at a frequency of positivity and hoping to spread the love in order to make a radical impact on others. With this shift in energy, I am at peace, allowing myself to be present and see the world through eyes of love.

Through my mind and body, I've started to find peace in the city that never sleeps. Interested? Then start reading The Secret and then read Gabby Bernstein's books.  The practices learned lead to living an optimal lifestyle.  And if you think you don't have time to read or try meditation, then ask yourself (in Gabby's words), "Do you have time to feel like shit?"

The Progressive Peel That's Changing My Skin

The strangest thing has been happening lately.  I've actually been waking up and eagerly running to my bathroom vanity to check out my skin in the mirror.  No lie.  I've put my skin through what seems like hell – IPL lasers, Fraxel and have used an abundance of lotions and potions that claim to be the best around.  However, I was introduced to a product about a month ago that has made the most drastic changes in the least invasive way.

Don't worry I'm obviously not keeping this all to myself!  It's the BeautyRX Progressive Peel by Dr. Neal Schultz, who I recently wrote about.  Don't let the "peel" part make you nervous.  Consisting of three products (that you use one at a time) – a serum, pads and a cream – it's a six week glycolic peel that builds in strength as your weeks of use go on.

So why am I raving?  My main concerns are fine lines, large pores and hyperpigmentation. (Lucky me.)  Almost immediately my skin began to look brighter and my pores,  minimized.  Now that I'm four weeks in, I'm alternating the serum with the pads nightly. As of now, my skin is brighter and I've even noticed that my hyperpigmentation looks lighter.  If you suffer from dark spots, you'll understand how excited I am.  I've been following the instructions and using it nightly, which is essential.  The results speak for themselves and using the peel at night actually makes me excited about washing my face before bed.

You can find the BeautyRX peel  for $69.95 at BeautyRX.com.