Oscillation Powder Foundation Review - Two Thumbs Down

Hello Beautiful,

I hope everyone is all geared up for the holiday season and that all of you enjoy this precious time with friends and family (unless of course you're visiting my "in-laws").

I just wanted to give you a quick product review, so that all of you can save your money. I was jumping with joy, excited when I saw that Lancome launched their innovative Oscillation Powder Foundation. I tend to pride myself on being a savvy shopper when it comes to cosmetics, especially because it's so easy to "buy" into marketing and promos for beauty junkies like myself. Because I've spent way too much money on products throughout my life, I have no problem asking for samples of anything before I commit to a purchase. However, Oscillation Powder Foundation is not available in a sample form, due to it's advanced technology.

I was originally drawn to the foundation because I love their innovative Oscillating Mascara and Mascara Primer. It's one of the best on the market. I tried their foundation on my hand, gave it a quick vibrating swirl, and was amazed at how smooth my hand looked. However, when I went to purchase it for my face, I was quite disappointed.

It's a very light texture, which is great if you have flawless skin and don't like to wear medium to heavy coverage. However, I think most of us have some flaws in our skin, otherwise we wouldn't be using coverage in the first place.

It's not bad if you're using it for basic coverage, but if you're a make-up artist, you will probably want something a little heavier if your doing a more dramatic eye.

Also, their patented oscillating technology is nothing to write home about (unless of course you're writing to tell friends and family to save their money, in which case you should write). Personally, I like to take my big powder brush with my preferred mineral foundation by Senna Cosmetics and make a quick sweep around my face. Lancome's Oscillating Face Powder takes more time to apply; I do a five minute face most days, this technology is cutting into that time, thus making my five minute face more like 6-7 minutes plus the additional time it takes to add more spot treatments to the darker spots on my skin.

Overall, save your $58.00 and spend on one of my other top ten favorite products listed in my earlier blog post. If you have questions on other great foundations, whether you have mature or younger looking skin, don't hesitate to write in. Also, never be afraid to ask the cosmetics associate for samples to try before buying. Don't let them pressure you or make you feel bad; the cost of cosmetics is drastically over priced, but when it comes to anything for my skin, I'm willing to break the bank.

Until next time, stay beautiful!

Get Your Sexy on and Feel More Beautiful with Pole Dancing

Hello You Sexy Goddess You,

I bet my students will be surprised to hear that Ms. D actually took pole dancing classes and loved every moment of it. Recently I was debating between getting my fiance a stripper pole or a Wii entertainment system for the holidays. At first I thought he would enjoy the Wii better than watching me dance, but then I realized, I ROCK on that pole. Today, I can't wait to tell you about my experience with learning how to pole dance and why I think every woman should do it.

I grew up as a dancer, so when I began hearing about the rage of pole dancing, I researched places and prices to begin my new adventure. I signed up several years ago at the SFactor dance studio in Encino, CA. The owner, Sheila Kelley has been featured on Oprah, as well as many other notable talk shows discussing the benefits of pole dancing. The studio has many locations across the country, including: Northern and Southern California, Texas, and New York.

I would be lying to tell you that I wasn't nervous, but the teachers at SFactor made me feel very comfortable from the minute I walked through the doors. The concept isn't just about learning to pole dance, but rather getting in touch with your inner Goddess, feeling more beautiful, and more confident.

The experience was like yoga, pilates, and stripping in one. I think most women have had a fantasy about being a stripper, but not necessarily in a club with old drooling men gawking at you. This experience made that fantasy become a reality, but in a healthy outlet.

I've never had more fun and was in the best shape of my life. My confidence went through the roof and I never felt more beautiful while learning how to pole dance. I must have started walking sexier or taller, because I had a complete stranger come up to me at the grocery store and tell me I was THE most adorable, sexiest woman he had ever seen. I was in my pj shorts, a tank top, and no make-up on. I wasn't walking around like I owned the place, I was simply doing my shopping like any other Sunday, but something in me was different and I was flattered to know that someone else noticed it.

I encourage EVERY woman, younger or older, to take these classes. The classes are typically met and purchased through 6-8 week sessions and they can be fairly expensive. However, don't be discouraged, as they offer scholarships and a work program that you can do while taking the classes. Also, I get specials in my email on a regular basis about different specials they have, such as lap dances, basic pole moves, and learning a strip tease. All of these things you will learn if you sign up for a session, but it's nice to know you can go with a girl-friend on a Friday night and come up to your man with some new tricks in your bag.

So, when all is said and done, I'm going with the stripper pole for my man. Not only can I dance for him, but the gift comes with a more fit girlfriend and more confidence for no additional charge. If I bought the Wii, I'd pay the same price as the stripper pole, plus I have to buy the games and other attachments to make it all work.

So, invest in your beauty today and check-out a class session or workshop at SFactor.com today.

Bliss - Sign up Today for Special Discounts and Coupons

Hello YOU gorgeous Beast! As many of you know I am a huge fan of Bliss Spa products. My students and esthetician have introduced me to some fabulous Bliss picks and I've been addicted ever since. Bliss is a world-renowned spa that first opened their doors in New York city. Due to their popularity in specialty facials and products, they have expanded their product line for those of us who can't make it to their world famous spas. I recently joined their on-line mailing list and I receive excellent deals and coupons on all of their most popular items. You can't find these deals at Sephora or Nordstrom's stores and I've found the on-line specials to be the best bang for my buck even with shipping and handling. Also, since I'm a self admitted Sephora Addict and I find it difficult to abstain from buying products that are not a necessity, I find that my on-line purchase at Bliss World to be more helpful in combating my impulsive purchases. Register TODAY at http://www.blissworld.com/ and receive immediate specials and coupons in time for Christmas. I highly suggest some of their gift packs, as they are a great introduction to the line if you're new to them. Email me with questions or comments on my blog if you need suggestions on products. You know, I'm always happy to help a gal stay beautiful!

Healthy Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake - With Regenerative Skin Care Benefits

That's right Gorgeous, here is a delicious cake recipe that will have you begging for seconds and help regenerate stressed and damaged tissue at the same time. My BFF, Cassie (aka Liscious) gave me this recipe yesterday and I can't stop raving about it.

Cassie's husband was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. That's right, I said rectal. Get over it and start bringing some attention to this very real form of cancer. As a result of the diagnosis, Cassie and her husband have made significant life changes to their diet, especially trying to eliminate as much refined sugar, dairy, and white flour as possible. She has educated me more than I could ever imagine about the dangers of sugar and dairy and the effects it can have on our bodies.

Also, I've recently discovered the benefits of using Grape seed Oil as opposed to other forms of oil for baking and cooking. Guess what ladies, the benefits of this oil are astounding. This oil is actually great for reducing LDL- cholesterol levels (those are the bad ones) and increasing HDL levels (those would be the good ones). Yeah, yeah, I know who cares if you're still young, right? Well, check this out:

"Grape seed oil is a preferred cosmetic ingredient for damaged and stressed tissues, possessing regenerative and restructuring qualities which allow for strong control of skin moisturization. It can help skin retain the normal structure of epithelium cells and nerve cells via supporting the cell membranes". (You can even use it around your eyes to help reduce and prevent fine lines).

(Nash, DT (2004). "Cardiovascular risk beyond LDL-C levels: Other lipids are performers in cholesterol story". Postgraduate Medicine 116 (3): 11–5.)

Alright ladies, take out your booty shorts and grab your apron (my man LOVES that) and let's get baking! Here's what you'll need:

Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe

2 2/3 cup Brown Rice Flower

1 cup Agave Nectar

2 teaspoons Baking Powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup low-fat vanilla soy milk

1/2 cup water

3/4 cup Grape seed Oil (**warning: not to be used if family or friend is undergoing chemotherapy)

1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract

2 Eggs

1 cup of mini chocolate chips **(these aren't too high in sugar, so we throw them in as a treat, you can eliminate them and the cake is still super yummy)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prep your cake pan(s) for baking. I have heart shaped silicone ones that don't stick, but if you don't have those, you may want to grease and flour your pan.

Mix the flour, agave, baking powder, and salt. Combine soy milk, water, grape seed oil, eggs and vanilla in separate bowl and whisk until mixed. Then combine all ingredients, mix until smooth. Add chocolate chips.

Pour into cake pan(s) and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Let cool and serve for IMMEDIATE yumminess! We had it for breakfast with mixed berries for added fiber and antioxidants.

Let me know what you think and until then, stay GORGEOUS!

A little SEXY Inspiration from the Movie Trailer, Nine

If this doesn't inspire you to feel beautiful then I don't know what will. Check out the preview for Bob Marshall's film Nine at http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1810053986/video.

Environmental Beauty for the Holidays

My favorite beauty pick of the day is the Sage and Citrus Candle by Yankee Candle. Some of you may be saying to yourself, "But that isn't beauty related." On the contrary my friend; environmental beauty is quickly becoming a top grossing category in this beautiful industry. Candles, diffusers, room sprays, etc. all are considered products that make us feel more beautiful. Your home is an extension of yourself, it is your castle my dear. Making your home look and feel beautiful is equally as important as making yourself look and feel beautiful.

I search high and low for new candles, but I must admit that I don't like buying cheap candles. Yankee Candles gives you the most candle for your buck, not to mention they have an array of colors and scents that will leave your house smelling anywhere from fresh baked cookies to an island get-away. No matter what your taste, Yankee Candles will be sure to delight. I love the Sage and Citrus because it's light smelling, it's not too feminine for my honey, and gives our home a welcoming touch.

For all you beauty snobs out there who are saying, "But, I don't like the packaging," I have a secret for you too. I'm not a country style kind of girl and these candle holders aren't as sophisticated as some of their edgier competitors, but I just turn the label around to face the back of the room and I get a candle that doesn't have Martha Stewart's name written all over it (hypothetically speaking that is). Yankee Candles also offers a newer, more savvy glass candle, but it is a little more expensive and has about 20 hours less burning time as they're other candles. So, you do the math. I may be a snob, but I'm a thrifty snob!

Yankee Candles can be bought on-line at http://www.yankeecandle.com/ or go on-line to find the location nearest you. Last time I was at the mall (like two days ago) they were having a buy one get the second for half off deal on all of their candles in any size. These are great gift ideas for men and women or the host of your next Christmas gathering.

Here's to keeping your home looking just as GORGEOUS as you! Enjoy!

Ciao Bella,

Farrah

xoxo...

Become a Model This Holiday Season

This holiday season indulge in a professional modeling shoot with acclaimed photographer, Cherie Carlson. Cherie is a friend that I met a couple of years ago when I booked my first photo shoot with her. She has a fun, outgoing personality that makes you very comfortable in front of the camera. I believe what makes her so great is that she is a model herself. She began modeling as a young child and she's a natural in front of and behind the camera. She knows exactly what the camera loves and she will put you in every which position to get you the sexiest shot possible. I am not just pimping this girl out because she is a friend; I'm getting her name out there because I believe she is truly gifted in what she does. Cherie is not only one of the most beautiful women I know, but she will inspire you to be the most beautiful YOU! Please check out her website at http://www.cheriecarlson.com/ to set up a shoot today. It's a great gift for yourself or for someone you love.

SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

I don't think there's any one of us who has not been affected by today's economy. Times are challenging for all of us, but I hope you will join me in staying positive. We may not be able to afford the Tori Burch shoes we dote over as we pass them by in Nordstroms, however, I come home everyday and dote over my amazing husband to be our four kitties. Life is full of blessings, you just have to be open to receiving them. Although I am blessed with a wonderful home, I still like to indulge in some of my favorite beauty products that keep me looking gorgeous, even when things seem bleak. Won't you join me in reading through my first annual favorite things list.

1. Osacar Blandi's dry shampoo: Voted one of Allure magazine's editors choice awards, this product will simplify your daily hair routine and leave you feeling like a million dollars even when you didn't have time to wash. If I were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring one thing with me, Osacar Blandi's dry shampoo would forever remain my keepsake. Sephora sells this product for approximately $20.00 and one bottle lasts me about two or three months.

2. Bliss's Triple Oxygen - Instant Energizing Mask: This is another personal favorite. Because our skin begins to lose oxygen up to 70% after the age of 30 years, our skin often times looks dull and tired. I've been using this product for nearly three years and it has changed my skin for the long haul. Every time I use this mask, people ask me why my skin is glowing. Bliss's Triple Oxygen - Instant Energizing Mask will give you the skin you've always dreamed of. I guarantee will you see instant results! Sold in all Sephora stores, some Nordstroms, and On-line at Bliss.com.

3. Philosophy's Help Me: This is a retinol night time treatment that helps eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, reduces dark spots, and evens out skin tones. This is also great to help fight some forms of acne. Remember when our mom's used to use Retin-A for wrinkles and doctor's prescribed it for acne? No prescription necessary. This product is great for any age and skin care specialists suggest using a retinol product in your twenties to help prevent skin damage and aging. Sold in Sephora and Nordstroms department stores.

4. Clarisonic MD: Okay, so it would be a toss up to leave this behind on my deserted island. I have been using this product for two years and it's been an absolute savior to my acne prone skin. 80-90% of skin problems are from incorrect cleansing. This product was created by the company what brought you the Sonicare, an eclectic toothbrush that helped clean teeth where regular brushes couldn't reach, deep within the surface. This is a similar device. This dynamic tool comes with a 1.5 inch brush head that rotates and vibrates while cleansing your skin. This also helps to even out skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and help combat pimples.

Sold at Sephora for $195.00. Totally worth the investment for gorgeous skin!

5. Ardell Accents False Lashes: This is one of make-up artists best kept secrets. Why spend $15.00 on false lashes when you can get buy these at select drug stores for a quarter of the price. These lashes are easy to use, come in an array of styles and are CHEAP-A-RA-MO! My favorites are the #305's as they are the most natural looking in my opinion. I always receive compliments when I wear these bad boys. Sold at many drug stores in your area.

6. Bliss the youth as we know it moisturizer: "This incredibly effective anti-aging skin care formula contains many simultaneously high-performance ingredients that will produce a regenerative effect like no other. Be prepared for some unforeseen sensations like incredible results, radical wrinkle reduction, and constant receipt of compliments." (Blissworld.com) This product is a little expensive for a moisturizer and is primarily good for normal/combination skin types. It's been very hydrating for my winter skin.

7. Bigelow Rose Salve: This is another inexpensive indulgence. Rose salve can be used on lips, nails, dry spots, and even to help heal wounds. I love it during the dry winter months for my lips and cuticles. I keep it in my purse and use it on my nails when I'm waiting in line at the grocery store, getting the car washed, etc. It's cheap, easy, and best of all it's effective! This product can be found at Bath and Body Works, Sephora and other local beauty stores. The cost for this product is around $6.00.

8. Wish by Lollia/Eau de Parfum: For a romantic and sophisticated fragrance you must try Wish by Lollia. I know fragrances are personal to everyone and not everyone will love this, but I just think it's precious. Wish by Lollia is an Oriental Vanilla favorite with notes such as woods, resins, flowers and spices; along with sweet notes like cinnamon and vanilla. Trust me when I tell you that your man will want to take a bite out of your neck. This product is found exclusively on-line at Lollialife.com.

9. Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray: The description is in the title. This is a weightless mist that you spray on your face after finishing your make-up. Skindnavia makeup finishing spray keeps your face hydrated and your makeup fresh throughout the day. This product even keeps my smokey eyes in tact after a long day at the office or in the classroom. I LOVE it and have added it to my daily make-regimen. I feel naked without it. Purchase it at Skindinavia.com.

10. Cherie Carlson Photography: Get your sexy on this holiday season and have a keepsake item that will last a lifetime. I had my pictures done with Cherie over a year ago and nothing made me feel sexier. She is an amazing photographer that knows how to capture the beauty in everyone. Take a look at her portfolio at cheriecarlson.com. A photo shoot starts at $200.00. I believe this is one of the greatest gifts I've ever received. Get in quick before she realizes how amazing she is and raises her prices. Cherie spealizes in sexy photos primarily for modeling, but she takes amazing photos for any occasion. She is an amazing model herself and has recently done the advertisment photo layouts for the Tapout clothing line, popular amongst MMA fighters. (Photo at top of post is taken by Cherie Carlson).

I hope you've found my list helpful and you will send me feedback after your purchases. Happy Holidays to all and to all a good night!

Ciao Bella,

Farrah

xoxo...

Look Your Sun Kissed Best (**Warning: Skin Cancer Not Included)

Mystic tan booths are a day of the past my friend. Say "Good-bye!" to orange hands, a ring around your head from the shower cap, and the green light that never quite turns on in the booth until you're just about to call for help. Say "Hello!" to a gorgeous sun kissed glow without the drama. Today I will rate my favorite faux tans, based on price, convenience and most natural appearance. Before we get started, let's take a little trip down memory lane with Ross's spray-tan experience from Friends:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqSc1f0NlpA

Faux Spray Reviews

1. Airbrush Tan: An airbrush tan is by far the best and most natural looking faux tan you can get! The only downfall to them is that they can be on the more expensive side compared to at home tanning sprays. I save these tans for my special occasions, such as vacations or special events. You can get a beautiful airbrush tan at many tanning salons for about $35.00 per tan. They usually vary on price depending on the number of tans you purchase at any one time. Don't be afraid to bargain with your tanning salon associate, as the price it actually costs per tan is well under the cost they charge. A couple of tanning salons I love in Los Angeles and Ventura County are:
Insatiable Sun (Encino & Woodland Hills) http://www.istanning.com/
Tan LA (Thousand Oaks & Agoura) http://www.tanla.la/

2. Bliss -A Tan For All Seasons: This is my new FAVORITE at-home tanning spray. This product can be found at Sephora, on-line at http://www.blissworld.com/, and select Nordstrom's stores. The cost is $36.00 for a 4.4 oz tin bottle. It has a 360 degree spray nozzle to reach those hard to reach areas, like your back and tush. My favorite part about this product is that it smells like grapefruit. Most tanning sprays have an odd odor for the first several hours, Bliss' product smells blissful. The most innovative feature about this product is that it won't leave you orange. While most tanning sprays come out brown or orange in color, Bliss'- A Tan For All Seasons sprays on purple. That's right, purple!! The R&D team at Bliss discovered that purple is the furthest color from orange on the color wheel, leaving your skin a beautiful bronzed look once it dries. Don't worry, you don't look like a grape when you first spray it on, as you rub it in for a natural bronzed glow.

3. Body Drench - Quick Tan: This is a great bang for your buck, with the darkest bronzed effect you can get. The bottle can be purchased at participating tanning salons, like the one's mentioned above for about $30.00 for a 6 0z bottle. I also found this product on Amazon.com at a fraction of the price. The best feature about this product is that it goes on bronzed right away, so I will often spray my chest and arms if I'm in a hurry for a quick glow. It comes out dark, like you've been in the Carri bean for days. The scent is also fun, as it comes out like a caramel apple; just don't lick your self in public.

4. L'oreal Sublime Glow Spray: This is the best mass market product available at your local drug stores. A 4.2 oz can will cost about $11.99. It's affordable and convenient. The tan is an amazing bronzed look with an easy to apply 360 degree spray top. The only down side, is that it flies off the shelves, so you'll often be left begging it for it drug-store to drug-store like a tanning spray addict. When you do find it, buy several cans at one time. The smell is less than desirable and it can often leave you with orange streaks. Once you learn to apply properly, this is the BEST bang for your buck!

5. L'oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion: I love to mix this product in with my daily lotion and apply it in the morning. I don't have to worry about streaks or making sure my tan is perfectly even. This gives me a subtle tan to build upon day after day. L'oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion can also be found at local drug stores for about $11.99 for a 6.7 fluid oz bottle.

Faux Tanning How-To:

1. Always shower and exfoliate with a non-oil based body exfoliator. A dry brush works best.
2. Do not shave your legs before you tan! Your legs will never pick up the color you're looking for once you've shaved.
3. Wait 6-8 hours before showering once you have applied your faux tan.
4. Wash your hands after every application.
5. Moisturize twice daily with a water based lotion.

I hope you've enjoyed today's blog. Go get your tan on and grab a Pina Colada, so you can enjoy your island get-away while you stay cool and skin-cancer free!

Until next time, stay cool, but look HOT!!

Ciao Bella,
Farrah
xoxo...

Learn your ABCDs

With the summer months upon us we are all subject to the danger of the sun. Living in Southern California, I know all too well the importance of protecting myself from skin cancer and melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) . We are exposed more often than we think to the damage that UVA and UVB rays can cause. Maybe you're one of those people who thinks that skin cancer or melanoma will never happen to you (maybe you're right), but wrinkles and skin damage due to the sun WILL happen. You'll be crinkled up and ugly before you know it. Especially on those parts we don't think about like our decollete (the delicate skin on our chest) and hands.

We rarely think about the ways in which we are constantly exposed to the sun. How many of you even consider wearing sunscreen on your hands? You can always tell the true age of a woman by her hands. Our hands are exposed to the sun everyday, especially while we're sitting in traffic. It's never okay to skip your SPF. Even going for a brisk walk when it isn't hot out yet or it's over cast isn't reason to skip your SPF. While your exposed to the sun for longer amounts of time, you should double up on protection with a BIG hat and SPF.

Speaking of SPF, how many of us are actually using the correct sunscreen that is indeed protecting us from those dangerous rays? I'll wait here while you grab your SPF, assuming you have some in your house....doo dah, doo dah. Did you get it yet? I'll keep waiting...doo, dah, doo, dah. Don't worry, I've got all day to help save lives and wrinkles.

Your SPF must contain one of these three ingredients in order to protect you from the harmful affects of UVA rays, the rays responsible for causing Melanoma,the ingredients are: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and Parsol (avobenzone). If one of these three ingredients are not in your SPF, then you are not protected. I'll wait while you throw it out now. A great mass market brand that you can find at your local drug store is, Neutragena Chemical Free Sunblocker. For my face, I love Clinique City Block with a bronzed tint to it; that's what I use on hikes, walks, and all day activities, such as the zoo.

Now that we've discussed what to use, let me tell you a little more about the dangers of the sun.

Each year there are nearly a million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed. In the 1950's and 1960's melanoma was rare, but today we are seeing a rise in this deadly disease. Women between the ages of 25-35, who are blonds or redheads, with fair skin tones are more at risk for melanoma. (Berg; The New Beauty Basics; 101)

While I spat about statistics to you from a book, I should also tell you that I have a dear friend who had to have over 100 stitches across her entire face in order to remove a VERY small piece of melanoma. Because this piece had gone undetected and was close to her eye, they had to carefully remove this without losing her eye. Once she recovered from that surgery, she had to go in for plastic surgery, as she had been left with a large scar across the middle of her beautiful face. While plastic surgery could remove her external scars, the emotional scars she is left with will remain with her forever.

As I mentioned, this lovely friend had waited far too long to have this "sore" on her face looked at. Had she been checked sooner, it could have been a much easier procedure. The melanoma on her face looked much like a small scab that wouldn't heal. She had it for months. This is why it is important for YOU to learn about the ABCDs of melanoma.

(A) Asymmetry: Melanomas are asymmetrical and odd-shaped. One half is often marked different than the other half. Normal moles are mostly round.

(B) Border: Normal moles have smooth edges. Melanomas are jagged, irregular, or scalloped shaped.

(C) Color: Normal moles are brown. Black, blue, pink, or multi-colored are signs of abnormality.

(D) Diameter: Get a mole checked if it larger than a quarter of an inch.

If you have any other abnormal growth or sores that won't heal, it is best to be checked by a dermatologist. Please don't freak about this article! The majority of you reading this are fine, but be aware of your body and its changes. If you are one of the few that I mentioned who are more likely to be a candidate for melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) then get a full body check by your dermatologist once a year.

Stay tuned for tomorrow's review of the best and most affordable tanning sprays. Just because I don't want you to get skin cancer, doesn't mean I don't want you to still look HOT!!!

Ciao

xoxo...

Light Up Your Life With Highlights

I consider this a very important message today! Listen carefully ladies; if you do not own a highlighter pencil, it is imperative that you pick one up today! Run, don't walk to your nearest, CVS pharmacy, Sephora, or department store for this must have item. If you do not know what a highlighter is, let me explain.
A highlighter pencil usually comes in a cream or off-white color, either matte or shimmery. The majority of make-up lines carry it, including: MAC, Anastasia, and Bobby Brown. This pencil should be used everyday, as a part of your "five minute face". Your five minute face includes, cleansing, moisturizing, foundation, blush/bronzer/, concealer, filling in your browns, mascara, and highlighting.
You use the highlighter under the arches of your brows, inside corner of your eyes, and inside your lower lid. Adding this simple adjustment to your face everyday, will make your eyes pop out, make you look younger and more vibrant.
This blog was inspired by a middle-aged woman I saw at Sephora today. She was offered a FREE highlighting pencil as a part of her "beauty rewards" points. She wasn't sure what to do with it and the beauty advisor briefly explained what it was for. I was mortified when the woman said, "Oh, I don't need anything like that." I wanted to shake her! This key make-up piece should be in every woman's tool box.
The moral of the story, aside from using a highlighter; is don't be afraid to try something new. Make-up can be scary when you're new to it. If you ask questions of the ladies at the counter or email me your concerns, I assure you we will work through it and be much more beautiful in the end.

Ciao,
Farrah
xoxo...

The Beauty of Letting Go

I am a self-identified perfectionist and by nature it is difficult for me to give up control and let life unfold in the way that it is meant to. Many of us struggle with "letting go" every day. We find it difficult to give up creative control of a project, let others do their own lives according to their own will, and worst of all, it's most difficult to allow difficult times to unfold as they may.

We are facing the most challenging financial times of our lives and many people are in fear of what tomorrow will bring. We often try to ease our fears and anxieties by using outside solutions. We often reach for food, purchase a new pair of shoes we may not need, or we react hastily to someone in traffic. None of these solutions make us look or feel more beautiful. In fact, it's quite the contrary; when we find ourselves reacting hastily to challenges that are out of our control, we look angry, uptight, and unapproachable.

The solution to the struggles we face today are in "letting go" and learning from the lessons we have been given today. The reality is that we may not be able to live the lap of luxury we once lived. We may be in fear about losing our homes, car, and/or many luxuries that once seemed like a necessity. The beauty of life is not found in things, but rather the beauty of life is found in our friends, our family, and our times shared with one another.

You may not be able to afford a movie, a Starbucks coffee, or a nice dinner out. But, I've found more beauty in reading a book at the library, making my own coffee, and cooking dinner with my fiance and family.

We become more beautiful inside and out, when we can "let go" of our expectations of the world and adjust ourselves to the world that is. The problems we face today are more complex than ever, but the solutions are simple. I find great beauty in letting go.

Beautiful thought for today: "God grand me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

Ciao,

Farrah

xoxo...

Good Morning Sleepy Head!

Good morning ladies! I'm sure we've all had those nights when we simply can't get our 8-9 hours of beauty sleep in; deadlines need to be met, babies need to be fed, or margaritas were calling our names late last night. No matter what your reason is for a less than average night of rest, I have a few simple solutions to help you look and feel more awake with these simple tips:

1. 
   LOOK more awake with a cream highlighter below the arches of your brows and inside the lower lids of your eyes. This highlighter will make your eyes appear whiter, diminishing the redness associated with little sleep.


2. BLUE mascara will also help to brighten your eyes and reduce the appearance of redness. I like to use my black mascara first and then put a second coat on using the blue mascara.
   


3. Drink a minimum of 10 glasses of water today.


4. 
   Resist the temptation for diet soda, energy drinks, or other sugary sodas. They will only give you a boost first, then make you feel worse. Not to mention, too much of these caffinated drinks will elevate your adrenaline hormones, thus throwing off your endocrine system. If you must drink caffeine, have your morning cup of Joe/Starbucks and green tea throughout the day.
   


5. Fight the urge for sugary snacks and high starchy foods, like chips.
   Stay energized with a balanced diet full of a protein, complex carbs, good fat (like Avocado, almonds, or olive oil), and fruits/veggies.
   


6. TLC: Treat yourself with some extra tender love and care today. Women are so busy taking care of others, that we often put our own well-being last. Do something special for yourself today: take a bath with candles, meditate for 15 minutes, or take a yoga class. If you can't fit those thing in today, be sure to take extreme care for yourself today, by forgiving yourself for not being perfect!

Big Hugs,

Farrah

xoxo...

Questions and Comments

Should you have any beauty related questions or comments, please become a member of my website. Once you join, you can post comments and/or questions. If I don't know the answer right away, I will research it and get back to you. Thanks for your support!

Farrah
xoxo...

Bonjour!

Welcome everyone to my first official blog post! Let me start out by saying, that I am just a normal girl, living one day at a time. I do not believe that I was born with some innate beauty quality with perfect skin and flawless features. In fact, a little secret between you and I....lean a little closer, so everyone doesn't hear; I actually fell asleep with my make-up on last night. Shhh, please don't tell my esthetician.

My job on this blog is to tell you ALL of my tips and secrets, so that you can always feel beautiful, even when you've gotten little sleep, you're feeling bitchy due to that time of the month, or you're skin is between seasonal changes.

So, let's start today about faking good skin care even when you've fallen asleep with your make-up on.

1. Get up off your tush and go to the bathroom sink!

2. Grab your favorite cleanser: I like to use one with salicylic acid on mornings like today, because it helps soak up that excess oil lurking from the night before. I'm currently using Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser because it's a specialty brand ,but it's fairly inexpensive compared to similar brands. This bottle was $15.50 and will last me about 6-8 months; you can find it at local beauty stores, such as Planet Beauty.

3. CLEANSE: You must wash your face for a minimum of 2 minutes in order to get all of the make-up off from the day before. I am going to wash twice today for a total of 4 minutes. I have very oily skin.

4. EXFOLIATE: This is the key, when you didn't wash the night before. Many women don't exfoliate and it's a must! This is the key to unlocking your true beauty, especially during the hot summer months when sweat makes your dead skin stick to your face, making you look dull, dry, and tired. Today, I'm using an the "Appleseed Brightening Exfoliant" by Fresh. The alpha-hydroxy-acid helps to penetrate the deeper part of your skin, your dermis.

5. Spray or swab on a light layer of toner and your favorite moisturiser. Do not forget to moisturize even if you have oily skin.

6. SPF: Don't forget your SPF!! If you already have it in your moisturiser or make-up, you're probably fine. If you'll be in the sun all day find a higher level of protection and wear a cute floppy hat.

7. Apply a light layer of foundation or minerals, bronzer, a little blush for color, and you're simply looking more beautiful already!

I will post more on skin care basics on another day. Tune in for more...

Thought of the day: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill

Farrah

xoxo...