Sunday, May 5th, 2013

Beauty, Bodylicious, Haute Press, Luxury, New York

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    LaserTouch Aesthetics | Say Goodbye to Stubble, Stings & All It Brings

    LaserTouch Aesthetics LaserTouch Aesthetics | Say Goodbye to Stubble, Stings & All It Brings

    With three locations in New York City, stretching from Soho to Midtown, LaserTouch Aesthetics offers a diverse and varied range of medi-spa services. Treatments include botox, dermal fillers, microdermabrasion and tattoo removal. Their myriad of innovative laser techniques has been praised by many of the industry’s top experts and are commonly revered as the clinics’ most widely requested services.

    The battle to remove unwanted body hair is often a cyclical trist, at the very least an unpleasant and time-consuming chore. From dull razors to messy shave gels followed by ingrowns, stubble and rapid re-growth, most find this daily annoyance to be a hopeful thing of the past.

    With some of the most experienced technicians in NYC, their team of experts helmed by medical director and founder, Dr. Ali Vafa, ensure that any and all services are executed both safely and professionally according to FDA standards. To this end, the loyal clientele are at ease when frequenting the spaces.

    Whether your body hair is fine or coarse, your skin tone pale or dark, they offer personalized laser removal services to address your specific removal needs. Each session is carefully customized for the individual client, through preliminary steps of using spot testing in order to assess hair and skin type. Before selection of appropriate treatment path, patented cooling devices are also incorporated into the procedure for painless implementation. To stop in for hair removal, learn more at www.lasertouchsoho.com.

    LaserTouch Aesthetics Soho LaserTouch Aesthetics | Say Goodbye to Stubble, Stings & All It Brings

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    Thursday, March 21st, 2013

    Beauty, Celebs, Haute Press, International, Shades of Beauti

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      Originally Dated Jan 5. 2011 #Throwback Beauty | Inclusion Evolution, Or No? How far has the industry truly come?

      JoanSmalls Originally Dated Jan 5. 2011 #Throwback Beauty | Inclusion Evolution, Or No? How far has the industry truly come?liyakebede Originally Dated Jan 5. 2011 #Throwback Beauty | Inclusion Evolution, Or No? How far has the industry truly come?
      JessicaWhite Originally Dated Jan 5. 2011 #Throwback Beauty | Inclusion Evolution, Or No? How far has the industry truly come?

      Estee Lauder adding Joan Smalls to its beautiful roster in December helped end 2010 on a hopeful note for the beauty and fashion industry. It’s no secret that diversity has long been a challenge on the runways and within magazine pages. Although make-up campaigns became increasingly more diverse in the last decade, celebrity faces like Halle Berry and Beyonce dominated for black women. Black models, including Jessica White for Maybelline, were not nearly as prominent. On the other side of the counter, Caucasian models were not overwhelmingly outnumbered by celebrities.

      The true exception, when it comes to prominently featuring models of color in a context in which the mainstream industry actually pays attention, has been Iman Cosmetics. In 1994, she launched Iman Cosmetics precisely because she spent so many years of her top model days mixing foundations to match her rich complexion. She has since featured a bevy of ethnic beauties that are still pleasantly arresting in the make-up aisles. I was quite excited to see the gorgeous face of my friend, model Nichole (Robinson) Galicia, in the early campaigns. Of course Fashion Fair, Flori Roberts and Posner, among others, were always ahead of the game but Iman’s impact was greater because she was an honorary member of the industry elite. For her to make such a statement turned heads and made headlines.

      But, to its credit, Estee Lauder has long stood out from its mainstream peers precisely because it has always favored models over celebrities. And, in regards to its spokesmodels of color, Joan Smalls was very much preceded by Liya Kebede. Even still, the Joan Smalls addition is wonderful news, especially on the heels of Estee Lauder signing its first Asian model Liu Wen. The face of beauty has long been multicultural but the mainstream fashion and beauty industry just began waking up to this in the 21st century in a major way and they are still moving at a snail’s pace for too many.

      This struck me quite strongly when I visited Dakar, Senegal over the holidays to attend the Africa Fashion Awards. Although cultivating the fashion industry on the Continent, particularly in regards to designers, was very much the topic, I could not help but notice the beautiful Senegalese women who represented all that the industry says they want everywhere I went.  Tall and thin is the norm in Senegal for both women and men. Needless to say, flawless skin is also common.

      Yes I know it takes more than height, proper weight and flawless skin to make a model. Personality is also a huge factor. Aerin Lauder, senior vice president and creative director of Estee Lauder, told Vogue.com “When we pick someone to represent the brand, it’s about her personality, too. It’s not just the face.”

      But personality is very tricky because it’s very subjective as well. Like beauty, personality can also be in the eye of the beholder. Suppose someone makes a culturally insensitive statement or gesture and a model points it out, does she become less personable?  Is she now difficult to work with?

      Sometimes we really don’t know. This industry is so not an exact science but one thing is certain: diversifying the faces of beauty that we see will help bridge the gaps. The more we see reflections of the world and not just one idea of beauty, the more comfortable we all become with the world of hues that’s our reality.

      As we nestle into 2011, the fall shows are just around the corner.  Of course we never know if the message is getting across until we see the runways and the pages of our favorite magazines. In 2009, French Vogue disappointed greatly with its blackface spread with Dutch model Lara Stone and, last year, blackface photos of Claudia Schiffer shot by Karl Lagerfeld surfaced. And, of course, the runways were not nearly diverse enough. Hopefully 2011 will not unleash similar disappointments.

      I know that I am not the only one ready to celebrate the beauty of all women and not just a European standard of beauty that hasn’t quite mastered its disappearing act. It’s a new year and we have plenty of reason to believe that, in 2011, we will continue to see the beauty and fashion industry move even closer to embracing us all.

      Pop culture critic Ronda Racha Penrice is a veteran freelance writer and the author of African American History For Dummies. Her work about race, history and culture appears regularly on theGrio.com plus she serves as the Atlanta Editor for UPTOWN Magazine, which targets affluent African Americans.

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      Saturday, March 16th, 2013

      Beauty, Face Time, Shades of Beauti

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        Niché Beauty | RX for Brown Skin Provides TLC for Women Of Color

        RX for Brown Skin 721x632 Niché Beauty | RX for Brown Skin Provides TLC for Women Of Color
        Though we are all created equal, lucky for us, we’re not all created the same. Every facet of divine design calls for different maintenance and the specificity of one’s skincare regimen is to be determined by season, reason or cause. As we age, following the mantra “Black don’t Crack” can be rather self-fulfilling; however, just because it isn’t cracking, doesn’t mean our skin doesn’t have a need for nourishment and health.

        With advancements in preventative chemistry and technology, there’s no wonder these products have emerged. Present day innovation and mother nature have provided our largest organ the luxury of being catered to with every waking need in mind.

        The determinant for SPF doesn’t rely on the amount of melanin, rather environmental factors due to global warming and must be merged with a free-radical prevention plan comprised of an anti-oxidant balance from fruits such as pomegranate. RX for Brown Skin is a full-spectrum skincare program taking your day-to-night routine from A-to-Z.

        Their gentle cleanser for normal skin types, gently lifts away dirt, makeup and impurities to reduce surface oils and unclog pores. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula is gentle and won’t irritate skin. Hydrating ingredients formulated into the cleanser replenish moisture leaving the face feeling clean, soft and refreshed.

        • Bright Skin Complex – A blend of Soy, Pomegranate and Hyaluronic Acid. Soy to specifically target uneven skin tone. Pomegranate is a powerful antioxidant to help protect against free radicals. And, Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate skin for a softer, smoother texture.

        • Green Tea – An antioxidant to help protect against environmental toxins that can age the skin. Their lightweight, oil-free cream provides continuous skin hydration throughout the day for skin that’s luxuriously smooth and soft to the touch. The hydrating formula draws in and absorbs moisture from the air for all-day hydration while also calming skin and  promoting a softer and smoother texture.

        RX’s alcohol, fragrance & oil-free toner combines skin-soothing antioxidants with hydrating and exfoliating ingredients to help control skin oils and bring skin’s pH balance back to its natural state. It also hosts a glycolic acid component that gently exfoliates to lift away dead skin cells and keep pores clear. Witch hazel and willow bark help detoxify skin and regulate skin oils, while bright skin complex delivers antioxidant soy and pomegranate to help calm and soothe irritated skin.

        As a third step: hydration, dynamic moisturizing complex incorporates a number of key components to maintain the skin’s hydration and deliver powerful humectants attracting water and restore the skin’s natural moisturizing ability.

        DayMoist CLR is a complex of plant derived ingredients that improves the hydration level of the skin for at least 24 hours after a single application.

        Shea Butter, harvested from the karate tree in Africa, is a natural source of Vitamins A, E and F, and is ideal for drier skin types as it helps revitalize, soften and maintain skin moisture. Cocoa Butter, extracted from cacao beans and used for centuries in Africa for its moisturizing and healing properties, is naturally rich in antioxidants to help soothe, hydrate and replenish the skin.

        Advanced SPF 15 sunscreen plus anti-aging formula not only protects against sun-related hyper-pigmentation, uneven skin tone and dark spots, but also helps skin look years younger by enhancing texture, elasticity and hydration.

        • Powerful UVA/UVB sunscreen protects against harmful effects of sun
        exposure
        • Proven botanicals such as goji, açai and green tea help slow the signs of skin
        aging
        • Red seaweed helps to deeply hydrate for firmer, more youthful-looking skin

        RX for Brown Skin Essential Hydration 766x632 Niché Beauty | RX for Brown Skin Provides TLC for Women Of Color

         

        *Sample was provided

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        Friday, March 1st, 2013

        Beauty, Bodylicious, Celebs, Fragrance, Haute Press, Luxury, Touché

        By

          Billionaire Boyfriend, Get One! by Kate Walsh

          Billionaire Boyfriend1 Billionaire Boyfriend, Get One! by Kate Walsh

          The only cure for a closet recession is–tada, that billionaire you should be dating. The job boards are fully populated with people but if you are smart, I mean a quick wit, you already know where to find the money. This fragrance says it all: class, sass, sauce and boss–that’s right, if you are going to wrangle a billionaire this year, why not have the perfect fragrance to irresistibly woo him in. Though many can wrestle and others can win, if you get your hands on one, suggestion: nail him to the floor, cause SHAWTY, competition is FIERCE.

          Start with this wonderful fragrance and you will be one of the apples of his eye in no time–if you’re good (at what you do), hopefully he’ll make you number one. If not, hey–he’s a billionaire, there’s plenty of his money to go around. The fragrance is described as “a lavish, decadent expression of seduction and opulence. Live the fantasy and let him spoil you.” Living the fantasy, i.e. the good life is fun, but embodying it is a different story.

          The brilliant and seductive note of black jasmine amber is at the heart of this desirable fragrance, making it unforgettable and charmingly extravagant. Succulent fruits of bergamot and tangerine wrapped in lush green leaves intoxicate as the scent blooms into a provocative blend of black jasmine, velvet orchid, gardenia and a touch of patchouli flower. Vetiver, cistus, sandalwood, and golden amber notes finish the alluring experience as it exudes an addictive wealth of warm woods.

          When you meet that uber rich prince charming with billions to blow…intoxicate him with your scent, and if you really want to rock his world get the roll on to keep in your purse at Sephora.com!

          * A sample was provided

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          Friday, February 8th, 2013

          Beauty, Buy Now, Haute Press, Luxe for Less, New York

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            The Best of Physicians Formula, Packed to the Brim at C Wonder | #Thanks @PFCosmetics

            Physicians Formula 785x497 The Best of Physicians Formula, Packed to the Brim at C Wonder | #Thanks @PFCosmetics

            We got a sneak peak into the new Physicians Formula Spring cosmetics line up at C Wonder in Soho recently. Let me preface by saying when I first started to wear makeup about 6 years ago, I was also into organic products. This is when I was first introduced to Physicians Formula, the lone product in supermarket and convenience stores at the time that offered both the organic ingredients that I wanted and the multi-functionality I needed in makeup. I was hooked then, and if you try their new and improved products now, you will be too.

            Physicians Formula CEO Ingrid Jackel was on hand to showcase all the new products for spring and summer. The lineup includes pH balanced powder and eyeliner, baked bronzer, and makeup simulating the effects pheromone to make women feel sexy and to boost their mood. We asked Ingrid why it’s so important to balance natural ingredients with high performance for Physicians Formula.

            “Women want to buy makeup to look better and ultimately feel better. We strive to create a product that is not only good for you but good for the environment as well,” Ingrid said. “Our products are created by doctors with the expectation of natural, organic products in mind. So the challenge is how to take that natural foundation and make it glamorous while simultaneously highly functional.”

            Well, Ingrid said challenge accepted and here’s what she has in store for Spring/Summer 2013.

            SUPER BB – $12.95-$14.95

            Super BB (“beauty balm”) is now offering the BB products in a foundation, concealer, powder, and cream. It has more than ten benefits including SPF 30, anti-aging, brightening, and moisturizing effects. The foundation is infused with Vitamins C & E, white willow bark extract, and covabead glass.

            Our Review:

            Super BB cream is very light and gives my face a soft matte focus. I used to only wear powder but I tried the foundation after the launch of the line last week and now I wear it everyday without breaking out like I used to with other heavy concealing creams. It’s wonderful, just a small amount diminishes dark circles, acne, scars and discoloration without heaviness or the feeling of layered makeup.

            pH Matchmaker – $9.95-$14.95

            The pH matchmaker is the first ever blendable face powder that is designed to match your skin tone in 60 seconds. It actually changes color based on your own pH and the light that you’re in, adapting to each persons individual skin and the environment. The powder complex is infused with fluorescein based dye and photochromic powders. This product is simply ingenious. It comes in both a powder and a lipstick. The products are more than just makeup; the packaging is what makes them stand out. Both have LED-powered lights and a mirror to aid you in your makeup application wherever you are.

            Our review:

            There is one thing I can’t live without now, my pH Matchmaker lip gloss with the LED lights. Whenever I use this when I’m out, I immediately become the center of attention. Everyone, including men, and people across the room are in awe; they come over to me to ask where I they can also buy the product. Even though it’s a peach color, it becomes darker when I apply it, which means the pH color changer is working. One negative thing about the powder is that it is only available in light and medium shades. Luckily, Ingrid says she’s extending their shades to deeper colors so darker skin tones will also be able to enjoy the product.

            Sexy Booster & Happy Booster – $9.95-$13.95

            Want to feel happy? Check out the Sexy Booster and Happy Booster line in bronzer, lip lacquer, and blush that when applied simulates the affects of pheromone making her feel happy and confident. “Women’s number one objective is to look and feel more attractive. Our sexy booster fragrance has coco extract to induce a feeling of euphoria and excitement,” Ingrid said. “It also has the ingredient Horny Goatweed, an ancient Chinese medicine that restores sexiness and influences her mood and how she feels.”

            Our Review:

            I’m not sure if I felt sexier after putting the lip lacquer on but the color was definitely something I felt sexy about. The Sexy Booster Glow Glossy Satin comes in voluptuous red, which is sultry and inviting. Combine that with the gloss/stain hybrid formula making this product a home run.

            Shimmer Strips – $11.95

            Their new metallic eyeliners have been in development for two years in the Physician Formula labs. Their glamorous, high pearlescent, ultra-fine micro glitter eyeliners can truly dress up an occasion. It features reflective prisms of color to make the eyes stand out. Each set features three shades is long lasting, water resistant, and smudge proof.

            Our review:

            I normally don’t wear liquid eyeliner but I did want to test the product. It’s long wearing and precise (thanks to the ultra-fine brush applicator) and doesn’t smudge around the edges of my eye crease as the day goes on like pencil eyeliners. I apply it to my top lid for work and just add a tiny bit to my bottom lids for drinks and dinner after work. You can go from day to night seamlessly without having to worrying about reapplying.

            Organic Wear FakeOut Mascara – $9.95

            Another product that’s not new but revamped this season is the Organic wear. Organics seem to be a new trend hitting the cosmetics industry, says Ingrid. This line is all natural, including their FakeOut Mascara, which is free of synthetic preservatives, Parabens, GMO’s and is 100% cruelty free for all the PETA lovers out there. It amplifies lash volume, length, and curl for a 3D false lash effect for 24 hours.

            Our Review:

            This product has organic orange water to hydrate, organic aloe and cucumber extracts, natural rice protein to boost volume and natural color pigments… What’s not to love? When applied, it’s simple, clean and does what it says. My lashes look fuller but without huge clumps to deter from my natural lash. Makeup created earth’s natural ingredients that also makes me look better is the ultimate makeup optimization.

            Endless Color – $10.95

            Ingrid says the ultimate accessory in every woman’s wardrobe is not on her face but on her nails. Physicians Formula is now experimenting with nail polishes and of course they’re free of harsh chemicals like DBP, Camphor, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Parabens, Gluten, Sulfates, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, GMOs and Triclosan. Each set comes with three colors in a high-performance salon formula.

            Our Review:

            I’ve only tried one color out of the 8 sets of 3 colors (24 in all). The best thing about these is the variety in color. They have nude, bright, earthy, grey, and glitter colors…. you name it. The polish goes on light so you’ll need two coats but it’s pretty durable. You get three colors for only $10.95.

            Ingrid Jackel’s Makeup Trends for S/S 13’

            Bronzer

            Physicians Formula produces the #1 bronzer in the market. Ingrid says many women are afraid to look orange when thinking about applying bronzer. “American consumers should learn from the Italian and French women who use bronzer everyday,” Ingrid said. So she found a solution. Ingrid added an education panel on the back of the packaging (How to Wear Bronzer, Happy Booster Bronzer, and Bronze Booster) so women can always remember how to properly apply.

            Blank Canvas

            This trend is all about the minimalist face that’s clean, pure, and innocent. Use the Super BB to achieve this look. The Super BB All-in-one Beauty Balm Cream has brightening antioxidants, moisturizing cream, firming botanicals and optical diffusers for high performance wear.

            New sensuality

            Ingrid says sexy is back and it’s full on. “Think 50 Shades of Grey,” she said when describing this trend. Use the Sexy Booster products to achieve this feeling. Each product has a seductive scent (vanilla and musk) that comes in bronzer, blush, and gloss that will have you feeling more sensual. The products are infused with Androstadienone to enhance your sexy side and Muricine Aglycone, a pheromone-like ingredient that is naturally derived from coral.

            Pursuit of youth

            “This trend doesn’t really ever die and will be a permanent fixture in every time period. Women are looking for anti-aging products as early as 25,” says Ingrid. Utilize the Youthful Wear to achieve this look. Physicians Formula claims it’ll make you look up to ten years younger instantly. Combine the Dark Circle corrector and concealer that have both a light and yellow tint application. The yellow tint is specifically for under eye circles.

            – Alexis K Morgan

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