Lash Genius Review

Anastasia Beverly Hills is full of new surprises this summer.  One of them is a brand new product that just came out this May.  It is called Lash Genius.  Lash Genius really is genius and brilliant!  This new topcoat can be applied to any mascara to make it waterproof!

This product is revolutionary because it now allows you to decide which mascara you would like to use as waterproof on any given day.  No more buying waterproof mascara for a wedding, reunions, or a day at the beach.  I don't know about you but I have wasted so much money on buying waterproof versions of my mascara only to find I lose them or forget I have them.  Lash Genius can also be used on false lashes to give them a more realistic appearance.   

I used Lash Genius this weekend and it was so nice not to have raccoon eyes while in the pool!  I also liked that it didn't make my lashes clumpy or brittle.  To use, simply apply your mascara, wait a few minutes and apply Lash Genius.  After use, simply remove with waterproof eye makeup remover.  It's that easy!

Lash Genius can be purchased at Sephora or at http://www.anastasia.net/home.php  You can follow Anastasia Beverly Hills on Twitter or use #lashgenius to tweet about this great new product. 


*I received a sample.

Before you Scrub your Face

15 Best and Worst Face Scrubs

Don't waste money on a scrub that doesn't deliver. See the scrubs you should try -- and the ones you should avoid

This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care products article Scrubs can rid your skin of dead skin cells and deep clean your pores -- a good one that is. Our readers say the worst ones will leave your skin feeling raw and your wallet empty. Don't waste any more of your time and money on a bad scrub by checking out this list. Our readers separated the winners from the losers to bring you the best and worst face scrubs. See list

The Worst No. 6: Burt's Bees Peach & Willowbark Deep Pore Scrub, $8

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.9

"This product leaves an oily, greasy residue on my face. It feels like I rubbed a thin layer of Crisco on my skin."

The Worst No. 5: Mario Badescu Strawberry Face Scrub, $15

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.7

"This is the messiest face scrub ever. After washing my face, I find little bits of strawberry seeds in my hair and nails."

The Worst No. 4: St. Ives Naturally Clear Green Tea Scrub, $9.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.4

"I'm glad I bought this on sale because it has done nothing for my skin."

Want to see what was No. 1? Click here!

Anastasia See and Be Seen...A Sephora Limited Exclusive‏

I have an exciting review for you! Anastasia has teamed up with Sephora to offer a makeup kit with four Anastasia products and it is a great deal!  The See and Be Seen Kit has an $80 value for only $44.  It is limited though so read below and see if you will love it as much as I do!

The See and Be Seen kit includes:

Two new HydraFull Gloss colors in Heiress and Plastic. These limited edition colors were created specifically for the theme of “Make It Happen” and are not available anywhere except in the See and Be Seen Kit. Anastasia’s Hydrafull Gloss contains lip tint to maintain longer lasting color while maximizing lip hydration and fullness.

The new caramel tinted Brow Gel. Anastasia’s brow gel sets your perfect brow look with a hint of tint and is fortified with botanical hair conditioners and essential oils to keep brows feeling as great as they look.

The soft pink and golden hues of the ILLUMIN8 Shadow duo in On Set. ILLUMIN8 Eye Shadow Duos are designed to illuminate, firm, and smooth the appearance of skin while also soothing, softening and hydrating.

So what did I think?

The HydraFull glosses were amazing! The colors are so pigmented and really stand out. It is perfect for a summer party to show your fun side. It fits in with all the bright colored clothing in fashion right now too. These can also be worn over your favorite lipstick color to jazz it up a bit! It stays on really well too. I had to reapply it only after meals.

The caramel tinted brow gel was perfect for me. I have thick brows that need to be tamed and also a few stray parts that can also use a brow gel that has a hint of tint.  This brow gel also has a bit of sparkle to it but not too much.  I really like Anastasia's brow gel because it doesn't bleed or flake during the day so you don't have to worry about little brown specks falling onto your cheeks.

The ILLUMIN8 shadow set was so pretty. The soft pink matched well with the glosses and the golden color added a little sparkle to show summer is here and I am ready to have fun! When is the next pool party or BBQ?

The kit is available exclusively at Sephora and http://www.anastasia.net/. This kit will only be available for the next 3-4 weeks so you hurry to Sephora this weekend so you don't miss out!

*I received a sample for review.

Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream Review

Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream Review

I purchased this on a whim right before my recent vacation.  I guess I was hoping for the product to live up to it's promise of "for the look of a mini-lift each morning". 

This was my nightly routine, wash face, remove color-stay lipstick, brush teeth and put on my mini lift cream AKA Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream.  I have to admit...it was wonderful.  This product goes on so smoothly that it is hard to resist not adding a bit more here and there.  It is practically fragrance-free and it light purple.  The texture is so smooth.  Ahhhh, it felt so wonderful. 

As for results, my skin did not break out as it has in the past with other Olay products.  I don't know if my skin really looked any better but it didn't look worse.  I think this is a good staple cream to have in the house.  I will definitely buy it again!

Key Ingredients:

AMINO-PEPTIDE, GLYCERIN, NIACINAMIDE, PANTHENOL (PRO-VITAMIN B5), PETROLATUM, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, VITAMIN B3, VITAMIN E
 
*I purchased this myself.

Olay Regenerist SPF 50 Review

Olay Regenerist UV Defense regenerating lotion in SPF 50.

On my recent camping trip I took along this simple sunscreen in hopes of finding a new favorite.  Here's what I thought:

When I first tried this sunscreen I was surprised that it seemed gritty.  I read some other reviews and someone else commented on this as well.  After you get over the gritty feel, the sunscreen works fairly well under makeup.  I have used sunscreen before that seemed to not hold under foundation and literally turned it into goop.  This one worked great. Oh and it doesn't smell bad.  Actually, I think it's scent-free.

As for protection, I am happy to report it worked great.  I was not in intense heat except for two days of my trip but I have to admit, I did work. 

The pump is okay.  There is nothing more annoying than waiting for a pump to work itself back up so you can pump more.  I needed about 5 pumps for my face and neck and maybe a tad more.  I kind of over do it with all lotions. 

Overall, this is a great basic sunscreen with the benefits of anti-aging but it didn't over WOW me.  I would only buy it again if it was on sale. 

*I purchased this myself.

Neova Sunscreen

Oh it's so hot here!  The worst part of the beginning of summer in Arizona is that we have a dry heat that is very similar to a blow dryer.  Add some wind and dust and we become miserable.  Soon enough relief comes when our afternoon monsoons begin to cool us down.  No matter how hot or miserable I am though,  I never forget to do wear sunscreen.  It doesn't mater how tired I am or if I am in a hurry, I always apply sunscreen to my face and body.  Oh and don't forget the kiddos! I have had a few family members with skin cancer and there is no messing around when it comes to my family's skin health. 

One brand that I would trust in a heartbeat in NEOVA.  I have used their products in the past and they are such high quality and really work.  The new NEOVA® DNA Damage Control sunscreens not only meet the highest standards for UVA/UVB photoprotection, they use breakthrough DNA repair technology to reduce visible signs of aging caused by UV rays. All three sunscreens are formulated with DNA repair enzymes that have shown to increase UV protection by 300% in one hour.

Here is the lineup:

DNA Damage Control SILC SHEER 2.0 [Broad Spectrum SPF 40] combines UVA/UVB photoprotection with the cosmetic benefit of a skin-perfecting sheer tint that evens out skin tone and works as an under-makeup primer or as a substitute foundation. Retail price: $45

DNA Damage Control EVERYDAY [Broad Spectrum SPF 44] is designed for daily protection of the face and uses transparent Zinc Oxide and advanced DNA repair technology to deliver optimal sun protection and significant anti-aging benefits. Retail price: $39

NEOVA® DNA Damage Control ACTIVE [Broad Spectrum SPF 43] is ideal for year-round, active, outdoor lifestyles; this 80-minute water-resistant formula includes zinc oxide and Vitamin C. Retail price: $46

All Neova sunscreens can be purchased at http://www.neova.com/index.aspx

4 Ways to Stop Getting Shaving Nicks

Cuts from shaving in the shower can be (really) annoying. Here's how to put an end to pain and scars for good

This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care tips article Anyone who has ever shaved knows what it feels like to accidently cut herself -- slight shock, pain, and frustration. That's why we talked to Venus scientist Claire Girdler for the four tips that'll help you get a nick-free shave every time. Get tips

Anti-Aging Secrets from some Experts

Beauty Bloggers Spill Their Anti-Aging Secrets

It's never too early to start preserving your assets. See how these beauty bloggers do it

This is a TotalBeauty.com anti-aging skin care article From putting down that cigarette to making annual appointments with a dermatologist, there are plenty of ways you can start slowing down the aging process. We got insider tips from beauty bloggers around the country, who shared their secrets for staying gorgeous at every age. Get their secrets now

Udderly Smooth Review and Giveaway

I have always seen Udderly Smooth products in the store and wanted to try them. I just love the packaging and I am all for cute cow print!

I recently tried the Vitamin E Cream and Shea Butter Foot Cream. The Vitamin E Cream comes in a nice
3-oz tube so it’s the perfect size to store in your purse, desk at work, or nightstand. I ended up using it on my legs after shaving and my legs felt smooth and “udderly” soft. Seriously, this stuff is great. The cream is not too thick and the perfect consistency to use on your entire body.

And don’t forget those feet! It is now time to get them ready for flip flop season. The Udderly Smooth Shea Butter Foot Cream is amazing.  I wore it to bed (usually with socks) and woke up with baby soft feet. In the summer, it really is important to pamper your feet and keep them moisturized. This foot cream was awarded Best Foot Cream by Woman’s Day magazine (and professionally recommended for diabetic patient use!). Udderly Smooth Shea Butter Foot Cream quenches extremely dry and thirsty skin of the feet – rough heels, in particular. Since it’s water based, this light moisture therapy absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue.

Would you like to win the Vitamin E Cream? Enter today by leaving a comment with an email address. US Residents only and the contest ends May 23, 2012 at midnight. Good luck!

Check out the complete line of Udderly Smooth products at www.udderlysmooth.com and connect with Udderly Smooth on Facebook at www.facebook.com/udderlysmoothusa or Twitter (www.twitter.com/udderlysmooth) for great tips and fun giveaways.

THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED

*I received a sample for review.

Spring Cleaning Time!

Admit it, have you ever gone to put one product away in your beauty closet or cabinet and about 3 fall out?  Have you promised yourself you will clean it out soon or this weekend and forgotten about it?  Of course you have because there is always something more fun to do than clean!

Well, here are two good reasons to clean out some old products and make room for some fresher, milder options! 

Enjoy the floral feel of spring with the new Lubriderm Daily Moisture Shea + Calming Lavender Jasmine Lotion. I tried this lotion after a shower and after shaving my legs.  It felt soothing and the fragrance was quite relaxing before bed.  I was pretty surprised it was Lubriderm because I was used to the non-scented version.  This one is much more my style.  It did not leave a greasy feeling either.  I could definitely see using this lotion daily as my new go-to lotion. 

$6.99 for 16 fl. oz., drugstores nationwide

Another great product that you won't be disappointed in is Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash.  It is 100% oil and soap-free.  This product is really great for those who use retinol products because it is so gentle.  I love using this as my daily cleanser because my skin is sensitive and I can break out if I use anything with oil or too many additives.  I promise you will love it!

$6.99 for 6 fl. oz., Drugstore.com

 

*I received a sample.

Beauty Bioscience RetinoSyn-45 Review

I am excited to tell you about my review of RetinoSyn-45 by Beauty Bioscience.  This was by far the longest research I did for a product and it was well worth the time.  I used it for 45 days exclusively.

This product is really great because it comes in an easy to use kit which is easy to open and keep your products organized.  The adorable kit comes with 1A/1B, 2A/2B, and 3A/3B and you are to use it for 45 days at night. This allows you to slowly step up to a higher potency of retinol cream. Your skin can see maximum results with minimal side effects through this process. RetinoSyn 45 even allows for you to skip a night if you are sensitive or experience too much redness.

I did read the directions that stated to use sunscreen during the day while using RetinoSyn-45 because your skin will be ultra sensitive to the sun. I made the mistake of not using an spf one morning when I was trimming trees and yes, I did experience redness and itchiness but it was completely my fault. After that incident, I made sure to wash my face completely in the morning and use an spf lotion before leaving the house. I use an spf everyday ordinarily but especially now!

Results:
The results from RetinoSyn-45 have been smoother skin and less acne. I haven’t had any breakouts and it seems to be because my skin has had cell turnover and also because this product allows you to build up to the higher potency. I also think the wrinkles around my forehead and neck have improved. I did not use this product directly near my eyes but did use it near my crow’s feet and that seems to show improvements.

I do recommend RetinoSyn-45 for those that feel their skin is dull or have been thinking of getting a facial peel. This product restores your skin and gives a great result.  This product can be found online at http://www.beautybioscience/ or at HSN. 


*I received a sample for testing purposes. 

Flora by Gucci Review

I recently got to sample The Flora Garden Collection by Gucci. It’s newly available at Macy’s department stores and Sephora nationwide in three distinct floral fragrances:

Gorgeous Gardenia: A sparkling prelude of succulent red berries and juicy pear gives way to an opulent floral heart.

Gracious Tuberose: A verdant overture of violet leaves and peach softens into the plant’s silken blossom.

Glamorous Magnolia: A brilliant opening of buoyant freesia, zest and green leaves yields to a tactile fusion of peony and magnolia.

Truly all three scents were delicious smelling and fun to wear. I spent so long taking in the scents and decided overall that the Gardenia is my favorite. This doesn't surprise me at all since I have always been a fan of fruity scents and pear flavored ANYTHING!

So the next time you are at Macy's or Sephora, check out this line and tell me which one you like!

*I received this sample as part of a BzzAgent Campaign sponsored by Gucci.

Check out these Mom Haircuts

12 Best and Worst Mom Cuts

It's absolutely possible to have children without getting the bad "mom cut." Grab some inspiration from the best celeb mom styles here -- just make sure to avoid the worst

This is a TotalBeauty.com celebrity hairstyles article What do Kris Jenner, Kate Gosselin, and Hillary Clinton have in common? They've all sported the infamous short (and cringe-worthy) mom cut. But having a short 'do does not have to equate to "soccer mom." To prove it, we found these gorgeous celeb moms and their equally pretty hairstyles. See which chic moms got it right. See haircuts

Brushlove Mother's Day Contest

Just in time for Mother's Day, Brushlove is having a contest and you can win!

The winner will receive $250.00 to spend towards a day at the Spa (of your choice) as well as $50.00 to use at Brushlove.com. The contest can be entered one of three ways, through Brushlove.com, Facebook or Twitter. To enter the contest via Brushlove.com, simply select “click here to enter” on the Spa photo and answer one simple question; “What is the first word that comes to mind when you think of your Mother?” If you would rather enter the contact on Facebook, all you have to do is comment on the Spa Giveaway Photo with your one word response and Twitter, just retweet your response!

What a great way to show mom you love her and win a great prize at the same time.  Enter now until May 15th!

Replens Review and Giveaway

Giveaway Time!  Replens is sponsoring a giveaway for Moody Maria readers.

Rediscover yourself. Reconnect with your partner. Rekindle a relationship. And, most of all, wave goodbye to discomfort!

So what is Replens?  Replens is an over-the-counter/non-hormonal moisturizer to help to alleviate vaginal dryness symptoms and replenish vaginal moisture for long-lasting results. When used regularly, Replens helps to replenish vaginal moisture making for comfortable, enjoyable intimacy.

Unfortunately, as we age our skin becomes dry and less elastic. We can easily see the effects on our face and hands, but may not realize that this also affects other delicate areas of our body. While menopause is the most common cause for feminine dryness, other factors, such as medications, excessive exercise, stress, childbirth/nursing or tampon use can also be the culprit. However, there is no reason pain and discomfort from feminine dryness should stand in the way of you having a satisfying intimate relationship. That is where Replens comes into play.

How does it work?  Replens comes with easy-to-use applicators and contains a bioadhesive that attaches to dry, compacted cells and delivers continuous moisture until those cells are naturally regenerated (about every 3 to 5 days). Use it approximately every three days for long-lasting hydration of dry vaginal tissues and feel more like yourself again.

A little information about Replens:
- Clinically tested
- Goes to work immediately and lasts for days
- Gynecologist recommended
- Estrogen and fragrance free
- Readily available at stores nationwide, such as CVS, Walmart, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, Target, Walgreens and more.

So make the commitment – to use Replens and alleviate vaginal dryness, Rediscover. Reconnect. Rekindle. Replens.  Join their Facebook page for more information at  – Facebook.com/Replens, or http://www.replens.com/.

If you would like to try Replens, please enter the giveaway by leaving a comment here with a name and email address.  US Residents only please.  Contest ends at midnight on 5/11/12.  Good Luck!