BellaSugar

How-To: Instant Shimmer Lotion

BellaSugar — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:59:35 -0700

So let's say you are clumsy - not that I'd know anything about that. (Nope, not at all.) Perhaps you've knocked an eye shadow over and it's all crumbly. While you may be able to repair it with these instructions, you could always keep it on hand to create a shimmery lotion. Just take a tiny pinch of eye shadow - obviously, it's best if it's a champagne, bronze, or pink shade - and mix it into a few dollops of plain body lotion. Spread it on your shoulders, collarbone, and shins to create a light-capturing glow quickly and inexpensively. Easy!

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Why You Don't Necessarily Need to Feel Bad About Your Neck

BellaSugar — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 10:08:41 -0700

Remember Nora Ephron, the screenwriter of When Harry Met Sally...? Lately, it seems like all she wants to talk about is how she feels bad about her aging neck. "The neck is a dead giveaway," she writes. "Our faces are lies and our necks are the truth. You have to cut open a redwood tree to see how old it is, but you wouldn't have to do that if it had a neck."

Maybe so, but your neck doesn't have to be any less gorgeous and healthy than your face. The key to avoiding "turkey neck" in your golden years is to stop it before it starts, and fortunately, doing so is easy. Wear sunscreen every day (even on cloudy days and in winter). When you apply your moisturizer each morning, cover your entire face, then apply lotion on your neck and decolletage, too. With vigilant use, the book you write in your 60s will be I Feel Great About My Neck. As for writing hit romantic comedies, well, you're on your own with that.

New Product Alert: C.O. Bigelow Mentha Body Collection

BellaSugar — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 12:27:35 -0700

One of C.O. Bigelow's most popular products is its Mentha Lip Shine (and since Fab is a fan, you know it's good stuff). This week, the apothecary is introducing Mentha Body, a collection of mint-infused soaps, creams and lotions. I got a sneak peek at the products and I like them quite a bit. The fresh, invigorating scent is reminiscent of a candy cane, but it's not so overwhelming that you'll walk around smelling like one of Santa's little helpers. For a rundown of my favorite products, and to find out why guys will like them too, read more

I tried a few items from this line, and I would recommend them for anyone who likes to "wake up" in the shower rather than wind down. My favorite was the exfoliating soap ($7.50), a bar soap with crushed walnut shells to exfoliate dead skin. (If you're not a fan of bar soaps, you might like the Smoothing Body Buffer ($14), which uses sugar crystals to slough away flakes and dull skin.) I also liked Vitamin Body Lotion ($14). It's a good moisturizer for average skin; I keep it at my desk so I can keep my paws soft throughout the day. And then there's the Vitamin Body Wash. I had mixed feelings on this one. The scent is wonderful and it's a big pick-me-up when I'm sleepily showering in the morning. But, like so many minty products, you really don't want to use this stuff on the, er, sensitive body parts. So just be careful with it around your nether regions.

Overall, the Mentha Body line is great to stock in the shower-especially if you live with a guy roommate, a boyfriend or a husband. The fragrance is minty, and in my completely unscientific test, it pleases the male beast. After I quietly put this in the shower, a freshly washed Mr. Bella specifically mentioned that he liked the body wash. The body wash is launching with a special promotional price of $5, which is reasonable, so why not give it a whirl?

Beauty Mark It! A Shimmer Body Lotion

BellaSugar — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 11:30:34 -0700

I’ve been using Nivea Silky Shimmer Body Lotion, $9, for about five years now. What’s great about it is it’s the same formula as classic Nivea Body Lotion, only it's enhanced with shimmer that catches the light and gives you a little extra glow when you are going to a party or out at night.

I feel like it’s a bit much to wear everyday, but when I am putting on something new or special, it makes me feel great. I have about two more uses of it and then I’ll be ready for a new bottle. Perfect timing for all of you to go on a Beauty Marking mission to help me find a new, subtle yet sexy body shimmer lotion.

Let me know when your Beauty Marks are up, and remember to tag your choices with shimmer body lotion. To learn what a Beauty Mark is and how to make one, click here.

To see some of my favorite online beauty stores, read more

Saks Beauty Place
Victoria's Secret Beauty
Sephora
Drugstore.com
Fred Segal Beauty
Folica
Strawberrynet.com
Nordstrom
Bergdorf Goodman
Beauty.com

Back to Basics: The Best Body Lotions

BellaSugar — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 04:33:33 -0800

Welcome to this installment of Back to Basics. These amazing moisturizing body lotions are my all time favorites. I have used them for years and have never had any kind of allergic reactions or dry skin. What are some of your favorite body lotions?

Kiehl's Creme de Corps, $26, is a treat for your skin when it is feeling just a little too dry or you've recently been in the sun. Just a little of this super rich moisturizer goes a long way.

I received a bottle of this as a gift about seven years ago and have never looked back. Beta-carotene gives it a natural deep yellow color. It is recommended to use for ten straight days to achieve optimum results.

It is available in three sizes: a 4.2 oz travel bottle is $16, an 8.4 oz bottle sells is $26, and a 16.9 oz bottle is $42. If you buy the larger size it comes with a pump for easy dispensing, it costs $44 (shown).

To see more of my favorite body lotions of all time, read more

Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion For Normal to Dry Skin, $7.99, has been in my house every since I was a wee little tot. Owned by Pfizer, it was developed by dermatologists to promote more supple, smooth and healthier skin.

It has a very clean, non-greasy feel and it quickly penetrates your skin so that there is no residue left on your body as you are getting dressed. It won't clog your pores and is available in two sizes: 6 oz and 16 oz at most drugstores and pharmacies.

Biotherm Lait Corporel Anti-Drying Body Milk, $20, is the lightest of the bunch - but don't let that fool you. Just because it has a thin texture, it still helps to repair dry skin, restore your skin’s protective barrier and protect its natural elasticity. It is available in two sizes: a 6.7 oz bottle costs $20 and a 13.5 oz bottle costs $35.

Reader Review of the Day: Kai Body Lotion

BellaSugar — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 07:00:00 -0700

The much-buzzed-about Kai products, like most other scents, are definitely a love-it-or-hate-it kind of deal. While I remain a bit on the fence with the popular scent, others love it, like reader GLB67. Here's what she had to say about the Kai Body Lotion ($33):

I bought this about a year ago and was a bit put off by the gardenia scent. [But then,] I ran out of lotion and thought I should just use this, and I am glad I did. It is very moisturizing, and the scent is so pretty especially after it has been on me for about 20 minutes. The scent lasts a long time. I will definitely repurchase.

Is there a perfume you've recently revisited with amazing results? It's time to tell us all about it on our Product Reviews section. We have well over 6,000 fragrances from which to choose. Who knows? Perhaps you'll be chosen as the next featured reviewer.

Reader Review of the Day: Gold Bond Medicated Body Lotion

BellaSugar — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 09:00:12 -0700

When I saw that Superstar2780 had reviewed Gold Bond Medicated Body Lotion ($10) I had to chuckle. Mainly because Mr. Bella loves his Gold Bond Medicated Powder a lot. That, and the commercials make me laugh for some reason. Curious to learn more about what Superstar2780 has to say about this lotion? Here you go:

"Gold Bond makes some serious products, and this lotion is not for the faint of heart! My skin is like the desert - super dry, sensitive, itchy, flaky. During the winter, this is the only lotion that works for me. It has a thick, creamy consistency that absorbs without feeling greasy, and because it's medicated, it has a nice cooling effect that really soothes and hydrates itchy, dry skin. The only reason I'm giving it four stars is because of the scent, which I can only describe as 'medicinal mint', kind of like Vapo-Rub. I can only use this lotion before bedtime, so it doesn't compete with the fragrance I wear during the day. But it really works and it's long-lasting, so I'd recommend giving it a try."

If you like reviewing products, I've got the perfect place for you to go. Our Product Reviews feature more than 50,000 items that are just waiting for your feedback. Plus, for every three quality reviews you submit, you'll be entered for a chance to win a $500 gift certificate from Benefit Cosmetics! So get typing.

Reader Review of the Day: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion With SPF 15

BellaSugar — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:00:11 -0700

I don't know about you, but I don't like my moisturizers to be overly scented. And that's one of the reasons why reader Stef42678 thinks Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 15 ($10) is a great moisturizer. Take it away, Stef:

I really love using this moisturizer when I have dry and cracked skin because it is instant relief. It has a light smell and really makes my skin feel soft and hydrated. I like that it is made with natural ingredients and doesn't feel heavy or greasy.

Do you have a favorite lotion you'd like to tell us all about? How about a pimple cream or a flat iron? Then it's time to head to the Product Reviews website to share. While you're at it, check out the wide array of reader reviews here.

Smoothing Strawberry Body Lotions

BellaSugar — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 09:00:22 -0800

Welcome to my third installment on strawberry beauty products. These body lotions are refreshing and sweet fruit treats for your skin. I've found that even with the wide assortment of orange, lemon and pomegranate body creams, there's nothing quite as wonderful as strawberry. Judging from your comments about strawberry facial scrubs and cleansers I think you'll like these juicy treats too.

Kama Sutra Strawberry Creme Body Soufflé ($17.09) is more of a massage cream than a body lotion. I haven't tried it, but a friend has, and she claims it's even edible (tastes sweet, but good). The timing sure is perfect considering that Valentine's Day is next week. I think it's funny that there's a warning saying that you must be 18 and over to even buy the cream. So, let me get this straight: Anyone can buy condoms, but you can't buy massage cream unless you're 18. Hmm, tawk amongst yourselves.

For two more smoothing and soothing strawberry body lotions, read more.

Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Body Drink Lotion (any two products in the range sell for $18) is a sugary, sweet and sexy body moisturizer that leaves your skin smooth and scented. I've had this product for a few months and always feel the urge to put it on when the sun is shining, even if it's cold outside. It's a boost to your senses and a great way to celebrate the scent of summer all year round.

Estee Lauder Pleasures Delight Body Lotion ($38.50) smells just like the fragrance only it's a little bit less intense. You'd never guess that it's made from strawberries, but that mixture (along with the scent of sugary confections) is what makes it so good. I was afraid that it would feel kind of sticky on my skin based on all of the sugar, but actually it feels very smooth and it absorbs into the skin quickly.

How to Make Lotion 100 Times Better

BellaSugar — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:39 -0800

Make lotion better? I know what you're thinking: "Oh, but how could lotion ever become better than it already is? Why, it's already at the zenith of moisturizing properties!" In just a minute, you'll understand. About a week ago, I headed to Bliss for a pedicure. What a treat! The best part isn't the luxury of sitting back while somebody rubs your feet; it's how that person does it. And at Bliss, they heat the lotion before slathering it on your worn-out feet and legs. Let me tell you, it's one of the most amazing feelings your legs will ever experience. So warm, so soothing.

Now, until Milo learns how to give a proper pedicure, I'm on my own as far as re-creating this warm goodness at home. I fiddled around with the microwave and different containers, so to find out the sweet spot for heating your moisturizer, read more.

Here's how to make the magic happen. First, find a small microwave-safe bowl. I used these bowls, a gift from Geek, but a nonmetallic shot glass would work, too. Put just a tiny bit of your moisturizer in the container and microwave it for 10 seconds. If all goes well, your lotion will be intact. If the oils separate, use a different one. (I first tried Kai, but the formula separated. I used Bliss body butter and all went well.) When you're sure that your moisturizer can handle the heat, squirt a little more in the container, then let 'er heat for 10 to 15 seconds. The lotion should be warm but not hot. Apply it to your skin and enjoy the sensation. Seriously, this is such a simple trick, but it transforms even the most quotidian thing into a little luxury. If you try it out, let me know what you think.

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