Moody Maria: June 2010

Certain Dri Review and Giveaway

With the summer here, sweating is a major issue for some people. One way to beat the heat or those noticeable sweat stains, is with an antiperspirant that can curb the waterworks.

One way to combat noticeable sweat is with Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant, the number one over-the-counter antiperspirant recommended by doctors for treating excessive perspiration. While other over-the-counter antiperspirants claim to be "clinical strength" and "waterproof", the Certain Dri formulations - 12% aluminum chloride -Roll-On and 25% aluminum sesquichlorohydrate - New Solid - are the strongest available without a prescription, providing 72-hours of protection with each application. Retail price is $5.50-$6, almost 40% less than the other clinical strength antiperspirant products.

Certain Dri is a great product to safeguard yourself from noticeable sweat whether you're doing physical activities or if you're in a situation that makes you nervous causing you to sweat (wedding, job interview, first date, etc.).

I recently tested the Certain Dri Solid and have to say, this stuff really works! It goes on clear and really helps subside sweating. In fact, I liked it so much that I used the entire container before posting this review. Certain Dri gave me the insurance that I could wear a form fitting top or a dark dress shirt and I wouldn't have sweat showing through my blouse. I also liked the fact that it is fragrance-free so it didn't interfere with my perfume. If you have a problem with sweating or sweat stains, I would definitely give Certain Dri Solid a try! Now here is your chance to win a bottle of Certain Dri......

Here is how to enter:
Leave a comment with your name and an email address to contact you (if you win). For one additional entry, become a fan of Moody Maria on Facebook here. US residents only. Comments will be excepted until July 3rd at 11:59pm PST. Good luck!

For more information, visit www.certaindri.com or their Facebook page.

*This review was made possible by a sample.

Eucerin Daily Skin Balance Review

In an earlier post, I discussed how Eucerin is taking skin seriously these days. They have created the Eucerin Skin First Council. It is aimed at educating the public about skin health. The Eucerin Skin First Council was formed to bolster public dialogue about skin health and devise new ways to educate and empower consumer health awareness. This expert panel includes dermatologist Deborah Sarnoff, MD, pharmacoeconomist, Rajesh Balkrishnan, PhD, and supermodel Veronica Webb.

I was fortunate enough to test two of their new products, Eucerin Daily Skin Balance Skin-Fortifying Body Lotion and Hand Creme.

Daily Skin Balance Skin-Fortifying Body Lotion : You won't miss this one at Target. Just remember red! I just love the new bottle and packaging. The body lotion comes with a pump too which made it easy to use after the shower. The actual lotion is light - not thick and creamy at all. It goes on smoothly and easily and kept my skin smooth. I did not itch after using this product. Some of the lighter lotions on the market don't moisturize properly or protect and this one did. It is lightly fragranced, but nothing noteworthy. I would definitely buy it again!

Daily Skin Balance Skin-Fortifying Hand Creme:
The hand creme is thicker and also has a very light fragrance. The fragrance is nothing I personally noticed at night and would not prevent a man from using this product. The hand creme was perfect to use before bed and my hands did not get sticky or greasy. They also felt great the next morning after washing my hands- smooth and healthy.

Feeling like a rebel, I used this hand creme on my feet and wore socks to bed - it worked like a charm! So, yes, Eucerin can officially change their labels and call this hand and foot creme.

For more information on Eucerin products, click here. If you want to take the pledge today, click here: http://www.eucerinus.com/skinfirst/pledge.php You will receive updates and special offers right to your email.

*This review was made possible by a sample.

Butternut Boutique Giveaway Winner.....

First off, thank you to Lora at Butternut Boutique for sponsoring this awesome giveaway!

Here are the winners:

1) Bridgett - you have won the Amy Butler Pony Tail Trio

2) Kim D. - you have won the Chickadee Bow Clip

Congratulations! Please email me your mailing address to moodymaria (a) live.com so we can get your prize to you.

Don't forget to visit Butternut Boutique here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ButternutBoutique

Check out the latest items and keep up on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Butternut-Boutique-on-Etsycom/

Summer Hair Products for You

Summer Hairstyling Tools: the Duds and the Winners

Find out which hair care products are the best and worst ones to use as temperatures rise

This is a TotalBeauty.com hair care article

Total Beauty readers let us know which products help de-frizz and add sexy summer waves and which ones just make hair look greasy and gross.

See products

Worst: No. 4: Frederic Fekkai Summer Hair Beach Waves, $23 

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.1

"This product definitely did not work …"

No. 3: Charles Worthington London Big Hair Full Volume Texturizing Salt Spray, $5.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.9 

"Makes your hair look dirty …"

Best: No. 8: Frederic Fekkai Summer Hair Zero-Humidity Frizz Control, $23

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 7.8 

"This product helps keep my flyaways under control …"

Want to see what other products made the list? Click here!

Dad's Day Finds at Sephora

Pamper your pop this Father's Day! From fresh colognes to luxe shaving tools and expert travel kits, Sephora offers all the men's must-haves to make his day a memorable one.

Spoil dad with these great gifts:

· NEW! Sephora Favorites Eau Boy Deluxe Fragrance Sampler ($80 Value), $40 - Can't choose what cologne to get dad? Give him selection of scents with this one-of-a-kind kit featuring eight deluxe samples of Sephora's most wanted men's fragrances and a voucher for the full size of his choice.

· NEW! Clinique Essentials of Shave Gift Set, $41.50 (a $61 Value!) - This fragrance-free set comforts even the most sensitive skin with six grooming essentials - from a face scrub to a cream shave and post-shave healer.

· NEW! Burberry Burberry Sport For Men, $57 - $72 - Give him a new everyday scent with this unique, naturally sparkling combination of frozen ginger, grapefruit and wheatgrass.

· NEW! Jack Black Performance RemedyT Turbo WashT Energizing Cleanser for Hair & Body, $22 - An energizing two-in-one cleanser that jump-starts the body, awakens the mind, and helps revitalize the immune system.

· NEW! John Varvatos Artisan Black Edition, $78 - a 2010 FiFi award winner, this limited-edition dark and woodsy cologne comes in a distinctly masculine flask housed in a hand-woven, black rattan.

· Billy Jealousy Travel Kit, $42 - An on-the-go grooming kit featuring all he needs to keep his complexion and hair in pinnacle condition-wherever he goes. Available only at Sephora.

Skip the traditional tie and show dad your appreciation with these fresh Father's Day finds - available at Sephora stores, by calling 1-877-Sephora or by logging onto Sephora.com.

Salon Etiquette

Test Your Salon Etiquette

Take this true/false quiz to see how good your hair manners are

This is a TotalBeauty.com hairstyles article

Should you tell your stylist if you don't like your haircut? How much should you tip? Can you expect to get a free bang trim? Take this quiz to get all these burning questions and more answered.

Take quiz

Living Proof's Refer-A-Friend Program

Now that you know all about Living Proof and their great products, I have great news for you! Living Proof is introducing a Refer-A-Friend program - rewarding customers for sharing their love of Living Proof with friends and family!

Every Living Proof fan that invites three people to make a purchase on LivingProof.com before July 5th gets a $48 credit. That is the equivalent of a full size No Frizz shampoo and conditioner or two full size No Frizz styling products, no purchase necessary. In addition, every person referred gets 20% off their first order.

A win-win situation!

So how do you sign up? Go to http://www.livingproof.com/

Register to get a new account. It's easy! Once you are at livingproof.com, click "Log in" in the top left corner. Register as a "New User" - fill out the simple form with all necessary contact information. Once registered, click on "My Account" find a special link that invites customers to share the 20% discount with all friends and family.

If you already have a Living Proof account: Click on "My Account" find a special link that invites customers to share the 20% discount with all friends and family.

Another great reason to buy online at http://www.livingproof.com/ - free shipping on any orders of $48 or more. Much easier than going to the store and a great deal! Happy Shopping!

A Smashbox Contest at Best Things in Beauty

Want the chance to win a Smashbox Naked Beauty Mini Lip Gloss Collection?

Head on over to Best Things in Beauty: http://bestthingsinbeauty.blogspot.com/2010/06/smashbox-naked-beauty-mini-lip-gloss.html

Hurry, the contest ends June 19th!

Father's Day Gift Ideas

Grooming Goodies for Dad

Find a Father's Day gift in this roundup of the best shaving creams, colognes and such

This is a TotalBeauty.com men's skin care products article

Put together a Dad's Day care package from this list of best male skin care products.

See products

No. 9: Redken for Men Go Clean Daily Care Shampoo for Normal Hair, $12

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.3

"The smell is intoxicating for the women around me …"

No. 8: The Body Shop for Men Maca Root Deodorant Stick, $6

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.4

"This deodorant did control the odor all day …"

No. 7: Gillette Mach 3 Power, $9.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.5

"My husband uses it on his face and it always turns out silky and smooth …"

Want to see what other products made the list? Click here!

Living Proof Hold Flexible Hairspray

Living Proof just keeps adding to their selection of amazing hair products using scientific technology. The newest product is Hold Flexible Hairspray.

Hold is an aerosol hairspray featuring flexible, buildable hold and No Frizz technology. It is also paraben-free.

Hold Flexible Hairspray modernizes hairspray and allows you to maintain your style without fear of collapsing. Featuring the revolutionary No Frizz technology, Hold is perfect for all hair types. It effectively blocks humidity, adds shine, and protects style. Hold technology is buildable—the more you spray the firmer the hold—but without flaking and dullness.

I tried Hold Flexible hairspray in two different cities (one being very humid and one being very dry). I was pleased with the results of Hold because my hair was not sticky but still held throughout the day. I hate that sticky, crunchy feeling that some hairsprays can give you. Don't get me wrong, I used Aqua Net when I was in a Broadway show back in high school. I loved it because it was SOLID and STICKY. So considering that I won't be doing theatre anytime soon, flexibility and smoothness is what I yearn.

I am really loving the Living Proof products because they allow me to get the best control with my hair but not have it weighed down with product. My hair also feels so healthy and soft when I use their products. For my other two Living Proof reviews see here and here.

You can purchase Hold and other Living Proof products at Sephora: http://www.sephora.com/ Living Proof is also on Facebook so "like" them today!

*Disclaimer: This review made possible by a sample.

Spalena Microfiber Sheets Review

My husband and I finally bought a new bed. It is so dreamy and huge. The only problem with it, deep fit. Very deep fit and we had a hard time finding sheets for it! I hit Facebook to ask my friends where they got their sheets. They all responded with various answers, such as Costco, Kohls, The Great Outdoors, and even QVC. I tried a few and returned a few. I soon realized that this was not going to be an easy task. My husband was starting to think I was crazy too and a tad too picky.

After searching online one day, I found something about microfiber sheets and how soft and expensive they were. My comforter has a microfiber material and it's really soft, but I couldn't imagine sheets in the same material. After googling, it turned out Costco.com had Spalena microfiber sheets and they got wonderful reviews. I just love shopping at Costco because their return policy is so great and their costs online usually include shipping. What the hell, let's give it a try. I hit the "add to cart" button and checked out. For the next 4 days, I sat at my window sill waiting for the UPS man. The wait was soooo worth it! Because I got these:

I ripped them out of the package, threw them in the washer faster than you can say, Kirkland brand Tide. I was so excited! It was like finding the perfect prom dress and waiting to get it home and try it on with your favorite high heels. I read a review that said not to use a dryer sheet or do, whatever....I did. The sheets didn't take very long to dry because of the material. Let me just say, heaven!

My kids were so jealous of our new sheets too. They took turns laying in the bed, rolling around, and begging us to let them sleep there just for one night. Unfortunately, we cannot afford a super-sized King bed like the Jolie-Pitts, so off to their room they ran.

The next week after I was absolutely sure these sheets were perfect, I ordered them each a set for their room. It was like Christmas in June! The color choice isn't the best, but comfort first as my Aunt Maryann says.

Let me make one point clear, I do not use the pillow case. I still stay loyal to The Company Store and use my microfleece pillow case. I am serious when I say, I sleep better than I have in years!!

Try these today, you won't be disappointed. And if you are, Costco has a money-back guarantee.

Hurry before they are gone! ****Note: They are only online and not available in the stores.******

Here is the official scoop on these sheets: Spalena has married the extremely high standards of the luxury spa industry with the traditional specifications of domestic bed sizes, thus producing the spa experience at home. These sheets are constructed from our industry-proven, engineered, incredibly fine microfiber, a fabric with the hand of the finest 600 thread count cotton. The Spalena line of sheets is remarkably soft and truly unique. With its enveloping fabric and supple hand you’ll know what it is to be cuddled, be at one with your surroundings and unable to distinguish the physical from the ethereal.

http://www.costco.com/

Smashbox Primer Reviews

I was introduced to Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer by my friend Carol. She suggested I use the green color-correcting because I sometimes complained of redness or uneven tones in my pictures.

The first time I used it, I thought to myself, "How could I have not know about this?" This stuff is amazing! A little goes a long way and it really does make your foundation easier to apply and smoother. Plus, it feels so good on your face! I have yet to try the other two colors or clear, but I am sure they are just as great!

ADJUST (green-toned to reduce redness):
This lightweight, oil-free, skin-perfecting primer reduces redness as it creates the perfect canvas for foundation application. Worn alone or under foundation to increase its longevity, this silky blend of antioxidants, vitamins A & E, and soothing botanicals, like soy, lemongrass, and orchid complex, rejuvenates and refines.

BLEND (apricot-toned to even out skintone and specifically counteract dark spots):
This lightweight, oil-free, skin-perfecting primer evens out skintone and specifically counteracts dark spots as it creates the perfect canvas for foundation application. Worn alone or under foundation to increase its longevity, this silky blend of antioxidants, vitamins A & E, and soothing botanicals, like soy, lemongrass, and orchid complex, rejuvenates and refines.

BALANCE (lavender-toned to brighten dull or sallow skin):
This lightweight, oil-free, skin-perfecting primer brightens and evens out skintone as it creates the perfect canvas for foundation application. Worn alone or under foundation to increase its longevity, this silky blend of antioxidants, vitamins A & E, and soothing botanicals, like soy, lemongrass, and orchid complex, rejuvenates and refines.

Recently, Smashbox came out with another version of their primer:

Photo Finish Targeted Pore & Line Primer

What it is:
An ultra-concentrated primer that works to erase fine lines, stubborn pores, and other complexion imperfections—all while absorbing shine for a flawless finish.

What it does:
Exclusively developed to target problem areas like the nose, forehead, crow's feet, and around the mouth, this advanced formula helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles via the Qusome delivery system, complete with anti-wrinkle peptides. It also features Chinese mushroom extract for moisture and anti-oxidation, and silicone elastomer to reduce shine on skin. The unique tip allows for targeted application every time, exactly where you need it. Photo Finish mattifies the skin and absorbs shine, while filling in pores and lines for a natural, more youthful look.

This primer didn't actually work as well as the original. I used it only on the eye area and I tried it before and after my makeup (different methods). It was too thick, made my makeup cake, and did not help with fine lines.

I was unhappy with it and actually exchanged it at Sephora. At $32 for .75 oz, I could not justify keeping a product I was unhappy with .

Sometimes, it is best to stick with what you know and what works. That doesn't mean I won't be testing out the drugstore versions that recently hit the stores....let the moodiness begin!

You can view all the Smashbox items at http://sephora.com/

Four-Minute Makeup Looks

Total Beauty editors take one for the team to put these quickie looks to the test and get their mug shots, er, photos taken

This is a TotalBeauty.com celebrity makeup article

Celeb makeup artist created six four-minute makeup looks -- can they realistically be done? Our editors prove it.

See looks

Butternut Boutique Giveaway

Butternut Boutique is an Etsy shop with the most adorable barrettes, clips, bobby pins, and more! Butternut Boutique has been kind enough to host a summer giveaway! Here are the bright and fun prizes just in time for summer:

The Chickadee Bow Clip for little girls (or Mamas)

Amy Butler Pony Tail Trio-

Great for Mom working out, running, errands, and playgroups

Or for a little girl!

So how do you win? Here is how you Enter:

1. Visit Butternut Boutique and leave a comment here on which item is your favorite!

Extra Entries (You can leave one comment with all the extras you did):

2. Blog about this giveaway and leave a comment with the link to it. (one extra entry)

3. Follow Butternut Boutique on Facebook. (one extra entry)

4. Follow Moody Maria on Facebook. (one extra entry)

5. Make a purchase on Butternut Boutique for 5 extra entries!

Make sure to leave an email address to contact you at if you win. Two winners will be chosen randomly, contest ends Sunday June 20, 11:59 PST and the winner will be announced June 21st. If the winner cannot be notified or the winner does not respond by June 25th, another winner will be chosen. US residents only. Good Luck!

Endlessbeauty.com - A Healthier Approach to Beauty

I just discovered a new website that is a great resource for health and beauty news. They also have product reviews and videos. You can join for free and add ratings and comments. They also have a Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/EndlessBeautyFB and Twitter: http://twitter.com/_endlessbeauty

Moody Maria is now part of their blogging community too. Check it out today at: http://endlessbeauty.com/ or their Beauty 911 blog at: http://endlessbeauty.com/blog

Another Drugstore Find..Rimmel The Max Voume Flash

After reading about Rimmel's The Max Volume Flash I decided to give it a try. I found it at Walmart and got it in Extreme Black. So far, I love it. It goes on smoothly, didn't clump, stayed on great, and washed off nicely with baby oil.

I got mine for $6.59 which doesn't sound too bad until I saw it listed on Walgreens' website for $3.49. Of course, you have to factor in shipping costs and the fact that it might be dried out or old. I prefer to buy my cosmetics locally so I can return them if there is an issue and to help the local economy. I guess I better start looking for coupons. I just joined their Facebook page too! I love that so many cosmetic companies are online and offering coupons and contests.

I have never tried other Rimmel products but will have to give them a test. Have you?

Overview:

•Coats each lash perfectly for volume

•Dries fast for mess-free application

•Enriched with collagen & keratin

Check out their website here: http://www.rimmellondon.com/US/home.aspx