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...