BellaSugar

Beauty Marked! A Shimmery Body Cream

BellaSugar — Tue, 01 May 2007 14:39:22 -0700

Last week I told you about my old time favorite Nivea Silky Shimmer Body Lotion, $9, that I've been using for about five years now. Although I adore the way it glistens perfectly in the light, I think it's time to try something new. I mean let's face it: they've made so many shimmery body creams within the last five years that I'm bound to be missing out on something fab if I don't start experimenting ASAP!

You guys were asked to go beauty marking to help me find a new awesome shimmer body lotion. I've checked your finds and I really like what I see. Here are a few that I've chosen to feature!

Beauty Mark #1 found by GirlInPink, is called Jergens Soft Shimmer Skin Radiance Moisturizer, $6. If this cream is anything like Jergen's original formula, I am sure it's great. Jergen's products have an awesome fragrance, they moisturize deeply and leave your skin feeling soft and supple. This one is infused with light reflectors for subtle radiance. I can't wait to try it.

To see a couple more shimmer body lotions, read more

Beauty Mark #2 found by swwonder, is called Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Body Gloss, $6. It is a super rich body cream that illuminates skin with a soft shimmer. It is made from pure cocoa butter and Vitamin E to ensure that your skin is left hydrated and smooth. Thanks for this suggestion, sswonder, you certainly can't beat this price!

Beauty Mark #3 found by foreverdizzy, is called Cranberry Shimmer Body Lotion from The Body Shop, $16. Just the sound of this is exciting. I love cranberry anything! This is a light and creamy moisturizer that absorbs quickly into the skin. It deeply conditions and leaves your skin feeling silky, smelling great and glowing.

How-To: Wear Shimmer Without Going Overboard

BellaSugar — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:00:51 -0800

This New Year's Eve, I'm planning on doing a super low-key gathering with some friends since I have to I have to catch a flight the next day. Plane ride plus hangover? No thanks. It is the new year after all, and that means it's a shimmer celebration.

Just like you'll be sure to "know when to say when" when it comes to boozy drinks tonight, you'll know "when to say when" when it comes to the sparkly goodness of shimmer with my tips below. Keep in mind that rules are meant to be broken, and makeup should always be expressive. But, for the most flattering look - pick one (two, tops) feature to add shimmer to, such as lips, eyes, cheeks, body, and/or complexion, and roll with it.

Shimmer or glitter?: Glitter is the more amped-up version of shimmer. While glitter is OK in small, small doses - like a sweep of Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner ($18) paired with a soft eyeshadow - it can look too Hot Topic when heavily applied.
Family jewels: When wearing sparkly cosmetics, keep your jewelry to a minimum. You don't want your fabulous face competing with your ginormous sparkly earrings.
Body glow: For some overall brightening, apply a shimmering lotion to your arms, legs, and/or décolleté. Try Jergens Soft Shimmer Skin Radiance Moisturizer ($5.12). You can also make your own by mixing a shimmery product with your body cream.

To see the rest, read more.

Bronzed goddess: Sweep a shimmering bronzer on your forehead, cheeks, and jawline in a "3" motion for a sexy, healthy glow. Try Jane Shimmering Powder ($4.19), and then add a pop of blush on the apples of your cheeks.
Highlight: To brighten up your face, apply a highlighter on the inner corners of the eyes, the upper cheekbones, and the brow bone. I like Aveda Shimmer Accents ($21.50), which are light enough to mix with your foundation or moisturizer.
Nail it: Butter London's Lacquer Duo Holiday Set ($20) has just the right amount of holiday pizazz.
Shiny lips: If you're not feeling shimmer on the body or face, why not apply a some sparkly gloss on top of your lipstick? Try Stila Silk Shimmer Gloss ($22), which is inspired by its famous eyeshadow shade, Kitten. Me-ow.

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Five Easy Ways to Fake a Sun-Kissed Glow

BellaSugar — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:00:19 -0700

If you make frequent stops on the Bella train, then you'll know that I'm all about safe sunning - which means no tanning at all. But that doesn't mean you have to lose the look of a day at the beach. While I love the benefits of a self-tanner, sometimes I don't want to deal with the smell of DHA combining with my skin's chemistry or the affliction of streak-mania all over my body. So, I've come up with a few tricks to fake a tan, all without the sunburn or chemical reaction. Check them out when you read more.

Insta-perk: For an instant perk-me-up, a creamy bronzer gives the best fresh-faced glow. These days, I've been very into Maybelline Dream Mousse Bronzer in Sun Glow ($6), a slightly shimmering warm rosy brown. Just apply where the sun would hit by making an "E" shape along the hairline, into the cheeks, and over the jawline. A small amount on the brow bones and down the nose complete the luminous effect.
Orange you looking tan: All I am saying is give orange a chance - or at least peach. I'm digging Revolution Organics Beauty Balm in Sunkissed ($32), an eco-friendly peachy-toned stick that gives lips, cheeks, and eyes a natural, dewy glow.
Triple the fun: Another multitasker but in a different way. To fake a suntan, go with a blush/bronzer/eye shadow combo that has at least three tones: a light tan, rosy pink, and warm brown. Swirl all of the colors together and apply to the in an "E" motion. Next, apply the lightest shade as a base on your lids, up to the brow bone. Use the rosy shade on the lids and seamlessly blend the darkest shade on the crease. This creates a natural, kissed-by-the-sun look. Try Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips in Malibu Strip Pink Sand Bronzer ($8) or Aveda Face Accents in Bronze Glow ($20).
Hot pink gloss: Mimic the look of sunned lips with a bright raspberry-toned gloss, such as MAC Tricolor Lip Glass in Tasty ($17.50).
Make a mix: Blend a bronze accent cream with your favorite lotion for an easy wash-away tan. I also like to lightly dunk these type of bronzers on their own on the tips of a complexion brush, stippling onto the "E" zone. Try Bonne Bell Gel Bronze Sheer Translucent Color in Golden Tan ($4) or Aveda Shimmer Accents in Terrastone ($21.50). You'll be a bronzed babe in a flash.

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Reader Review of the Day: Olay Body Quench Ultra Moisture

BellaSugar — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:00:23 -0700

When it comes to body creams, seeing the words "quench" and "ultra moisture" on the label is a hefty promise. What did reader Legallyblonde36 think about Olay Body Quench Ultra Moisture ($6), then? Find out below:

This is my favorite lotion. I usually use the formula for extra-dry skin in the Winter and it really works on all my areas of dry skin. I apply in the morning after I shower and don't need to worry about reapplying until the next day. It also adds a touch of shimmer, which I love!

Don't forget that from now until March 23, for every three quality reviews you write, you'll be eligible to win a $500 gift certificate from Benefit Cosmetics! All you have to do is go to our Product Reviews website and submit your opinion. Plus, you might just have the chance to be featured on this daily post.

Coming Soon: Donna Karan's New Cashmere Mist Accoutrements

BellaSugar — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:49 -0700

Why mess with a good thing when you can capitalize on a classic? In this case, Donna Karan has decided to maximize the success of her 1994 Cashmere Mist fragrance by introducing this year's additions to the existing empire. Beginning in September, four new limited-edition zesty scented bath and body products will be available for purchase at department stores nationwide.

The Cashmere Mist product range includes an oversized body powder compact, a silky body oil, a luxuriously thick body cream, and a candle that burns for up to 36 hours. My favorite product is the compact because it oozes old, 1940s glamour. The powder is shimmery, silky, and pale gold. It adds a warm radiance to your skin and ensures that your essence lingers as you go about your business.

For pricing information, a detailed description and a close-up peek at each of the products, read more.

Cashmere Mist Fragrance Body Silk Body Oil ($70) is an off-white, warm aromatic candle that comes in a classic cylinder glass votive and burns for up to 36 hours.
Cashmere Mist Silk Body Crème ($55) is back by popular demand. This body lotion was actually available last year and was an international best-seller. The cream is silky, decadent, and leaves behind a powdery shimmer finish.
Cashmere Mist Candle ($25) is a silky and completely nongreasy body oil that absorbs instantly into the skin leaving behind a slight luster and strong scent. Since the formula is so unique, this makes for a terrific gift for any Cashmere Mist fan.
Cashmere Mist Fragrance Body Powder Compact ($48) is a unique way to wear a fragrance. This pale-golden powder gets applied with a fluffy brush and contains shimmer flecks and softening agents to leave skin with a velvety, soft glow.

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Model of the Week: Marisa Miller

BellaSugar — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:00:22 -0700

As the new face of Victoria's Secret Very Sexy Dare fragrance, Marisa Miller is on the road to being a one-namer (think Heidi, Cindy, Naomi). I caught up with her recently in New York and got her to spill some beauty secrets. Most surprising, however, was that the California native has eschewed suntanning over the last few years and believes it has saved her skin. "I was just talking to Linda Hay, the head makeup artist for Victoria's Secret, and she said my skin looks better now than when I started five years ago. It's because I‘ve stayed out of the sun the last two years."

To find out how she fakes it and get one of Hay's Australian beauty secrets, read more.

So how do you stay tan?
Marisa Miller:
It’s not hard to find good self tanner that’s not orange anymore. There are so many products in the Bare Bronze line - shimmer makes a big difference on the skin for hiding imperfections. It’s all about the way the light hits your skin. This sheen in the Shimmering Body Oil reflects the light differently. [All the Victoria's Secret Angels] were like "more, more, more!" When you’re on that runway it’s all you, there’s no retouching. It’s live. That was definitely the big secret of the [Victoria's Secret Fashion] show.

That’s Victoria’s Secret! What are your other beauty secrets?
Marisa Miller: Linda just used this product from Australia -she’s Australian- called Lucas’ Papaw Ointment. It has papaya extract, which is great for cracked skin and insect bites. She puts it on my lips or anywhere that’s dry, like under your eyes, or even to get a little sheen. It’s a Vaseline-type texture.

How do you take care of yourself with all the traveling you do?
Marisa Miller: I probably travel three weeks out of every month. You try to sleep whenever you can. When I first started it was hard to sleep on a plane, but now I can sleep anytime anywhere. Whenever I can, I’ll leave a little conditioner on my ends or just have a really good moisturizer and eye cream on the plane. Drink a lot of water.

How do you keep your skin in shape?
Marisa Miller: Good skin is really important, so I make sure I go to the dermatologist. My doctor, Dr. [Harold A.] Lancer, has some really great products in his line. I make sure he checks out my freckles, it’s important to be on top of that with my skin. Staying out of the sun has made a world of difference. Not that you have to hide from the sun by any means, but it’s important to use sunscreen and do it in moderation. I get facials in L.A. I’ve been going to Rita Csizmadia for probably ten years. Basically it’s maintenance, like clogged pores and things like that from all the makeup. I try to squeeze in my appointments every month.

What are your makeup essentials?
Marisa Miller: Curling your lashes instantly makes you look more awake, so if I only have a couple of minutes that's what I do, followed by mascara. Mascara and bronzer, that’s the biggest thing. My favorite bronzer is Victoria's Secret Mosaic Bronzer in Goddess. It’s easy because you can use it on all skin types. And I love High Definition Mascara, I have it on right now. It’s lengthening and not clumpy and you get good volume. I’m definitely a low-maintenance beauty person.

Well, at least in your line of work you get people to do the maintaining for you!
Marisa Miller: I know! That's the best part - you get a mini makeover every time you work!

To read more Model of the Week posts, click here for the archive.

Buh-Bye Dry: Fruity Body Moisturizers

BellaSugar — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 10:04:54 -0800

With winter beginning to rear its ugly head, the temperature is dropping and you know what that means: All of your body's extra moisture is now being sucked right out of you. If you've been noticing some unsightly scaling on your arms, legs, and elbows, these fruity limited-edition body moisturizers have come to the rescue.

Kiehl's Limited-Edition Hand and Body Pear Tree Corner Lotion ($19.50) is a fast-absorbing cream that leaves skin smelling like fresh pears. Don't let the lightweight texture fool you; this lotion is made with aloe vera and oatmeal to ensure that your dry skin gets all the nourishment and moisture it needs. (And if you're wondering, Pear Tree Corner is the corner where their flagship store is located in New York. )

For two more fruity, limited-edition body lotions, read more

Bath & Body Works Couture Limited-Edition Japanese Cherry Blossom Swirling Shimmer Body Crème ($19.50) is a delightful body cream infused with a Japanese Cherry Blossom eau de parfum. It also contains aloe vera, shea butter and mango butter.

The Body Shop Limited-Edition Pomegranate Body Puree ($19) is a light-feeling lotion that absorbs quickly and hydrates deeply. It's got an amazing pomegranate-berry scent and it leaves skin feeling smooth.

December Must-Haves

BellaSugar — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:55:41 -0800

Even though stores are filled with people seeking gifts for friends and family, let's be realistic: Most people pick up a little something for themselves, too. And why not? It's been a long year, and a bit of pampering won't hurt.

For this month's must-haves, I've found items that will help you primp and prepare for end-of-year festivities-along with a few that'll help you decompress from the stress of the holidays. To see my picks, read more

If there's any time to have shiny, shimmering hair, it's in December. I'm planning to pick up Fekkai Sparkling Shimmer Spray ($13.50), a mist that has microscopic diamond crystals to lend a subtle golden glimmer to your hair. Paired with good tools like this T3 mini flat iron ($119), it would provide a professional-quality hairstyle for New Year's and beyond.
Urban Decay's holiday kit is worth considering. Midnight Cowboy Rides Again ($32) is spot-on with the metallic trend. It includes a golden, shimmery beige eye shadow, Eyeshadow Primer Potion (so your color will stay put), an eye pencil in a deep coppery shade, and glittery gold eyeliner. Worn all at once, these items would be too much. But adding just one item to your regular look will be a gild-y pleasure.
If you're visiting family during the holiday season, you'll need portable, flight-friendly body care supplies. You may also need to de-stress. (Just sayin'.) This gorgeous Red Flower Hammam Set ($56) lets you do both. It contains travel sizes of these 100% natural goodies: Moroccan mint tea silt purifier, lemon coffee blossom olive stone scrub, jasmine rose rhassoul clay polish, orange quince steam room mist, cardamom amber oil, tangerine fig butter cream. Just reading about them makes me want to relax and unwind with a cup of tea.
Bonne Belle Smackers ($2.95) are a favorite from my childhood, and since 'tis the season for chapped lips, I figure it can't hurt to have a few extra lip balms on hand. I'm a fan of the Dr. Pepper flavor, which takes me way back to junior high.

Summer 2007 Giorgio Armani Bronze Mania Collection

BellaSugar — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:00:39 -0700

The 2007 summer collection from Giorgio Armani Beauty is called Bronze Mania. It was inspired by the colors of the glorious beaches, vast sands and bright prominent flowers of the Mediterranean. Comprised of golds, chocolates, reds and mauves, everything has a metallic sheen to make your summer skin glisten.

The limited edition collection includes a new Shine Lipstick ($25) two new Lip Shimmers ($26), a redding brown Maestro Mascara ($26), three new Golden Eye Shadows ($24), Bronze Mania Face and Body Gel ($80), a double cream blush compact called Bronzing Face Duo ($65) and two shades of cream to powder Summer Foundation ($55).

The last product in the collection is the Gold Mediterranean Palette ($85). The top level includes four eye shadows formulated with mother-of-pearl in gold copper brown, orange gold, nude gold beige and sparkling gold earth and the bottom level houses a sheer powder bronzer. All of the products are an absolutely stunning and worthwhile summer indulgence!

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Brand-New Brand: Take 5 Cosmetics

BellaSugar — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 16:23:33 -0800

Take 5 Cosmetics recognizes the importance of first impressions. Celebrity makeup artist and founder Judy Twine believes that women today are high profile and are constantly judged on appearance in just three minutes or less.

Like celebrities, women are often placed in the spotlight at work, events, etc. Because she has been searching for a full line of cosmetics that is practical for the busy modern woman who must look her best at all times, she decided to develop her own - and might I add - quite impressive brand.

Her line is extremely vast, full of both practical and innovative products such as: color phase eye shadows, cream eyeshadow quads, indelible gel eyeliners, luminous lips clear shine, blush glows, body bronzers and multi glow multipurpose shimmers for just about anywhere you want to add some creamy shine.

Her line consists of anything and everything you would ever need to make a great first impression including custom palettes, brushes and accessories.

Prices range from from $10 for matte eye shadows to $170 for a complete gift set (shown). Judy also offers various tips and tricks on her website that are extremely helpful. Use her experience and expertise to bring out the inner celebrity in you!

Read about more new makeup alerts here.