BellaSugar

Bella Bargain: Free Butter London Nail Polish

BellaSugar — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:00:09 -0700

If you're concerned about carcinogens in nail polish, you'll be excited about this news. From now until May 15, when you turn in three polishes that contain formaldehyde, toluene, or DBP, you'll receive a Butter London "three-free" polish in exchange - no strings attached. Butter London is one of many companies that have ditched those three chemicals, and their colors are always on-trend.

To get your freebie, go to a Butter London boutique or a participating boutique and turn in three toxic polishes. (They don't have to be new - they can be the crusty bottles you've had for years.) You'll then receive a coupon for a free Butter London polish of your choice. It's a pretty good deal for your budget, and an excellent way to protect your health.

Bella Brand: Butter London

BellaSugar — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 07:00:28 -0800

I'm usually not convinced that fancy nail polish is much better than drugstore polish, but some brands provide an incentive to spend a few dollars more. Butter London is one of them. Although it's based in Seattle, the nail-care brand is an Anglophile's dream, offering a thoroughly British experience. (Well, there's no tea, but it's pretty close.)

Butter London operates three nail salons in Washington state, one in California, and soon one will open at Dulles International Airport. I haven't visited any of them, but after trying a few nail polishes, I now know that I want to. Nonie Creme, the creative director, has loaned her nail creativity to clients including Kate Moss, Vogue, H&M, and Jimmy Choo. It's no surprise, then, that the polish colors ($12) are completely on-trend. (Check out some of my favorite colors below.)

Along with the color variety, the other big draw of Butter London is its commitment to making nontoxic polishes. All of the polishes are free of the "big three" - toluene, DBP, and formaldehyde - and so I feel safer wearing them. I've now switched to using Nail Foundation ($18), which has helped my manicure stay chip free. If you're looking for fashionable colors and are cautious with your cosmetics safety, you might want to check it out.

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Try Out a Matte Taupe For Fall

BellaSugar — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:00:00 -0700

I've always liked taupe makeup because it's a color with a little bit of everything. Sometimes it takes on silver qualities, while other times it looks a little gold. From a tone perspective, it's got brown, gray, and sometimes even purple essences. We've seen stars rocking a metallic-taupe nail throughout the warmer-weathered months, and I'm sure we'll be seeing a less blinged-out version of the shade now that a change of season is looming. Take Gwyneth Paltrow, for instance. At the Adolfo Dominguez 2010 Spring/Summer show in Spain, the actress wore this lovely super-wearable, soft raisin-toned color on her nails. I love me some sparkle, but after seeing Gwyneth wearing this matte version, I'm ready to make the seasonal switch myself. To get a similar look, try Essie Mink Muffs ($8), Sephora by OPI Nail Colour in On Stage ($9), or Butter London's Tramp Stamp or Fash Pack ($14 each).

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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Model of the Week: Teiko Dornor

BellaSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 07:00:24 -0700

My friend Frank is an uber-talented designer, and when he showed me the look of this Nicolay and Kay release, I had to know who the gorgeous woman on the cover was. Turns out that she's a London-based model named Teiko Dornor - and she's much more than just a pretty face. She's a working model, a law student (who's on a break), a television presenter with OBE-TV, and the organizer of a pageant called Miss Plus Africa. The Ghanaian-British beauty took a few minutes to talk about being a plus-size model, learning to appreciate herself, and, of course, her best beauty tips.

Did you struggle with your appearance while growing up? How has modeling changed the way you see yourself, if at all?
While I was growing up I was rather on the skinny side (little did I know I would become a plus-size model) so my parents where concerned which then made me a little paranoid. Modeling has changed the way I interact with others. I’m naturally introverted and rather shy, so it's really forced me come out of my shell; it has changed how I see myself and made me a stronger woman. I’ve really come to terms that it's what I think about Teiko that’s most important.

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For the full interview, read more.
You’ve said that you’ve felt pressure to lose weight. I think most women feel that same kind of pressure because of the bizarre cult of thinness that reigns in fashion/beauty. Any advice for regular women as far as self-acceptance is concerned?
It's so strange: The fashion and beauty industry celebrates us and inspires us but sometimes it creates the opposite effect. Self-acceptance is something I’ve unfortunately struggled with. I would know exactly what I wanted to change about myself to an obsessive point, and all I can really say is start from the inside and ask yourself what really determines your happiness and inner peace. I’m happy now - not because I’ve dramatically changed my appearance, but because I committed time and energy into accepting myself, my relationship with God has brought me a long way, and I’m making better choices and happier now.

Anybody who’s been paying attention to the fashion shows knows that women of color and plus-sized (read: average and normal!) women are few and far between. What do you think it will take to make the industry more diverse?
Gosh, truth hurts, huh. Those are unfortunately two very valid points. Slowly but surely, I'm seeing changes. Jourdan Dunn being featured in the Prada show was encouraging. I would love to see plus-size models front mainstream campaigns, doing high-fashion, not just commercial work. I wish I knew exactly what it will take, but with most issues around equality and representation, once the problem is identified, a solution is not far away. Let's hope it’s the same here!

Tell me about Miss Plus Africa. How did that come to be?
Miss Plus Africa was borne out of passion and frustration! In 2006 myself and Joi Onyeukwu decided to establish a pageant that celebrated women with curves, and the African culture which has almost become synonymous with poverty and disease but is so much more than that. Joi and I also wanted a way to give back to our continent, with a percentage of funds generated going to organisations that support development in Africa.

I love being part of this because I know firsthand that it's not the easiest thing when you see the same type of woman being the prototype for beauty all day, every day. The women who have come forward are plus size and proud! I love seeing that because its so easy to light up when someone asks if you’ve lost weight and slum into depression when someone suggests you’ve put on weight, No one is promoting obesity, but as long as you stay healthy there is nothing wrong with being a bigger woman. Miss Plus Africa is an organization that celebrates this fact, encouraging women to embrace themselves.

How do you take care of your skin and hair?
My skin? It's been said a zillion times but drinking loads of water is a simple way of keeping my skin hydrated and healthy. There is a lot of pollution in London, which can leave my skin congested, so I have a deep cleansing facial at least once a month and exfoliate on a weekly basis with Japanese cleansing grains, leaving me radiant. My hands can get really dry, so I stock up on shea butter when I go to Ghana - I love its texture. I'm studying holistic massage at the moment, so I massage my face every evening for around 30 seconds to stimulate circulation and I’m certain it leaves me glowing!

I always seems to be adding or taking away from my hair. I change styles regularly; whatever hairstyle I have, I ensure that my hair is always well-conditioned, whether this means hair masks, hot oil treatments or steam treatments.

What are some of your best beauty secrets?

Always wear SPF. I’m Ghanaian-British, and also dark-skinned, but I have made it a rule not to think that’s any excuse to not cover up!
Blushers are great. Blush can really alter your look and lift the colors and life in your face.
Always carry lip balm!
When you are happy its almost like an instant beauty treatment. So stay happy, people!

And what are some of your favorite beauty products?
I have loads. Australian company Aesop has some great products; when I’m flying I use their Ginger flight therapy. I just roll it onto my pulse points and I’m good. Aveda does a great lip glaze in Mango Juice, and Carol's Daughter’s hair smoothie Khoret Amen, is a great conditioner. Iman has some great products, and her blush in Freesia is an instant lift. MAC have a good range of glosses; Wet Wild and Wonderful is a personal favorite. I’ve just discovered i.d. mineral makeup. It's light and flawless and lasts a while.

Finally: When do you feel the most beautiful?
I feel most beautiful when I’m surrounded by love, surrounded by positivity and enjoying the endless possibilities life has to offer.

How To Strengthen Your Nails

BellaSugar — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 07:00:14 -0700

With my nail polish collection rapidly growing, I've been switching polish colors as often as possible - which, of course, causes problems with my nails. So I thought it would be a good idea to give you some tips on how to protect your nails from damage, as well as help fix already-damaged ones. Vertical ridges, white marks, spots, peeling and brittleness are normal signs of neglected nails. Anything else strange going on with your nails could be an indication of a health problem. There's no need to freak out, but keep an eye on it and see a doctor if you suspect there's something funky going on there.

To see how to protect and strengthen your nails, read more.

Use a base coat: Using a base coat before applying color will protect your nails from any harmful chemicals in your polish, and also help prevent the polish from staining your nails. I like Butter London Nail Foundation, especially because it's formaldehyde-free.
Keep it short: Long nails are more likely to snag and tear. The best shape for your nail's health is square and slightly rounded on the top (some call this "squoval"). Clean under the nails regularly, and file any snags as soon as they happen.
Just say no ...to toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP, that is. These common nail polish ingredients can dry out and damage your nails, and formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. To see which nail polish brands are "three-free," check out this post.
Reduce remover: Ideally, you should limit your nail polish remover usage to twice a month. I know that sounds difficult, but try extending your manicures with a rock-solid top coat, like my personal favorite, Seche Vite. When it's time to remove your polish, use a non-acetone remover, and let nails breathe for a few days in between applications.
Soak: If, despite your best efforts, your nails end up a brittle, peeling mess, treat them to a warm oil soak. Just heat some bath or olive oil in the microwave, then dip your fingertips in for about 10-15 minutes. When you're finished, rub generous amounts of lotion or a good cuticle cream into your nails and cuticles. I'm a fan of Kiehl's Imperiale Cuticle Treatment ($19.50).

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Formaldehyde, Toluene and DBP-Free Nail Polishes

BellaSugar — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:00:58 -0700

Ask and you shall receive. I read your comments on yesterday's post about nail polishes that contain formaldehyde, and I wanted to respond by giving you a few safer suggestions. Brands such as Butter London and Priti Polish are free of formaldehyde, toluene and DBP - and here are some other options.

Some "three-free" polishes
Avon	Peacekeeper
China Glaze	Rescue Beauty Lounge
Elizabeth Arden	Revlon
L'Oreal	Rimmel
Lippmann Collection (newer formula)	Sally Hansen
Maybelline Salon Expert
Nars (newer formula)	Spa Ritual
OPI (newer polishes are safe, but some hardeners use formaldehyde)	Zoya

For a few of my favorite safe-polish picks, read more.

Nars Nail Polish ($16) has developed an improved formula. The varnishes are now enhanced with UV protection, have a glossier finish, and supposedly last longer without chipping (I haven't reached a verdict on this just yet). They are also free of formaldehyde, DBP and toluene - which I think makes the smell less severe.

The polishes in the Lippman Collection ($15) are now not only free of DBP, formaldehyde and toluene, but they also contain green tea and biotin (protein) to help your nails grow stronger. The formula dries quickly and has a really nice shine. I personally love the two new spring colors. Have you had the chance to check out Dream a Little Dream of Me yet?

Adorée Professional Nail Polish ($5) has more than 140 different nail colors in its range. While they are free of the "big three" polish no-no's, they do contain hardeners to help strengthen nails, and they claim to provide a high-shine finish.

Lovely Links, 3/20

BellaSugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:00:51 -0700

This compact makes Beauty Blogging Junkie feel like a million bucks, without spending it.
Fashionista has the scoop on the latest hair trends from across the pond.
Does she or doesn't she? Jezebel weighs in on Renée Zellweger's facial expressions.
Blogdorf Goodman and I are both obsessed this perfect shade of red polish from Butter London.
See which fragrance The Moment's Chandler Burr calls "a glow of sweet sugary fruit that blooms on your skin."
If you're looking to conceal a scar, birthmark, or severely uneven skin tone, Beauty Snob has found the cosmetics line for you.
Spoiled Pretty perfects her unruly brows with this great kit.
What is that tingling sensation in menthol, anyway? Beauty Brains clears its up (and it's not what you think).
See where Specktra had a euphoric haircut experience.
Shake Your Beauty discovers a mascara color that's surprisingly better than jet-black.
Makeup Bag gets up close and personal with the creator of the cult-classic Child Perfume.

The New York Times finds out that some makeup artists are famous. (You don't say.)

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Lovely Links, 12/28

BellaSugar — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:00:13 -0800

Beauty Snob checks out Conair's new hot rollers and likes the results.
A Girl's Gotta Spa jumps aboard the argan oil train.
Temptalia previews the Spring Shu Uemura collection.
Spoiled Pretty finds an online boutique with 150 free samples to choose from.
The Beauty Brains find out whether there's such a thing as too much exfoliation.
Louis Licari shares six steps to a better blow-dry.
Kiss and Makeup finds the cutest makeup tutorial ever.
Jezebel examines the phenomenon of pretty people making more money than less-pretty folks.
Blogdorf Goodman reviews Butter London nail polishes.