Sephora Collection Perfecting Ultra-Smoothing Primer Review

Sephora Collection Perfecting Ultra-Smoothing Primer

If you are looking for a reliable and somewhat inexpensive primer, choose the Sephora brand labeled as the Sephora Collection.  My friend Carol recommended it to me and I simply love it.  It has an airless pump so it is easy to distribute and I simply apply it with my fingers.  This primer preps your face so your foundation goes on smoothly and easily.  It claims to extend the wear of your foundation and I would have to agree.  I also think it makes my skin look smoother and more even toned.  It can be applied to the eye area.

*One note: I do wear this primer over my day cream with SPF.

There are several listed on the website but this one is the Perfecting Ultra-Smoothing primer. It sells for $15.00. This product is dermatologist tested, non-comedogenic, and free of parabens.

* I purchased this product.

Fall Shopping 2013

Steals & Splurges: The Ultimate Fall Shopping List

Check out this season's fashion essentials on both ends of the price spectrum

This is a TotalBeauty.com Fashion article By the time fall rolls around, we can't wait to replenish our wardrobe with all of the essentials: leather jackets, slouchy sweaters, and knee-high boots are just a few of the items on our fall wish list. But more often than not, a whole new seasonal wardrobe is just not in our budget. That's why we rounded up this season's hottest trends on two different price points. Check out these splurge-worthy items at a price that'll make you feel like you stole it. See fall shopping list

Nuance Salma Hayek Dual Phase Makeup Remover Review

As many of my friends know, I just love browsing the aisles at CVS.  I especially love being a member of the Beauty Club and earning rewards.  Recently, I found this amazing makeup remover.  It is called Nuance Salma Hayek Cucumber & Rosewater Dual Phase Makeup Remover. 

The bottle contains a watery liquid and a more oily substance which you must shake to make perform.  It is similar to a salad dressing that separates. 

I love this particular makeup remover for a few reasons:

• It can be used all over the face and not make me break out
•  It smells good and is pleasant to use
•  It is strong enough to remove my long wear lipstick
•  It is sort of fun to use!

I am already on my second bottle and it lasts a few months.  I will be definitely giving this as gifts to my besties for the holidays. 

*Listed as $7.99 on the CVS website but I got it on sale.

* I paid for this item myself.

Caudalie Divine Oil Review

The first post of 2013...how exciting! I am using my husband's IPad, sitting by the fire, and watching my kids play with Legos and watch Disney channel. The show, "Shake it Up" is actually pretty good! Anyhow, back to beauty!

I purchased my first Caudalie product from Sephora in December. I have been using the Divine Oil for a few weeks now. My skin is really dry and is craving moisture. I did a quick search on Sephora's website for facial oils. You would be amazed at how many exist! I decided to go with Caudalie because I remember Gwyneth Paltrow recommended this brand. I have a few idols and Gwynnie is among them.

I mentioned my dry skin. Well it was at the point of peeling when I applied foundation. I first used a cleansing powder in the shower and then quickly applied the Caudalie Divine Oil on my face, neck, and chest. It comes in a glass jar with a spray pump. I was worried I would drop it but thankfully haven't yet.

The oil is oh so divine. It smells great, feels great, and didn't make me break out at all. I admit I could use a bit more moisture but this stuff is wonderful. I just noticed the travel size is in sale so I might get another. I purchased mine in a travel kit that is now sold out. The large size is $48 which I would never buy. It does seem to last though. Despite the grooves in the bottle- be cautious and never store this standing upright in case it falls out of your cabinet onto a tile floor.  You may find yourself sopping it up with tears in your eyes.  I have mine in a drawer at an angle so it won't seep out and is easily accessible.

I am excited to now try some other Caudalie products. I am sure Gwynnie would be proud. I think her brother lives in my town so you never know when I might run into her!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!  Here's to a great new year with happiness, good health, and happy memories. 

Wine Stained Lips

Trend Alert: Wine-Stained Lips

Afraid to venture into vampy, dark lipsticks? No Worries. This guide's got all you need to master the mulberry hues

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup tips article It's official: Wine-stained lips are this season's must-have look. But if diving into the world of gothic glamour seems completely foreign, take this crash course. It's got everything a dark lipstick newbie needs to feel comfortable flaunting a wine-colored pout. Take crash course

Anastasia Beverly Hills 2012 Holiday Kits

I cannot believe that October is almost over and you know what that means, holiday shopping is almost here! It is never too early to start thinking about what to get the beauty lover in your life. And it is never too early to start a wish list! Make sure to add Anastasia Beverly Hills Holiday kits to your list.

I had the chance to preview the two kits: Want you to Want Me Eye Kit and the Kisses on My List Vol. 2 Lip Gloss set.

Here is a sneak peak:

Want You To Want Me Eye Shadow Palette

I just love this elegant and hip 70s inspired box set.

Look at all the gorgeous colors!

The kit contains: - 9 x 0.025 oz Eye Shadow in Platform Wedge, Members Only, Graphic T's, Iron on, Front Row Center, Ziggy, Brass in Pocket, Power Ballad, Jellies

- 0.085 oz Mini Clear Brow Gel

- 0.17 oz Liquid Eye Liner

To purchase it:
http://www.sephora.com/want-you-to-want-me-eye-shadow-palette-P375788


Kisses on my List Vol. 2


This set is limited edition so you might want to snag it early! The 2011 set sold out! It contains three sheer and three new Hypercolor glosses.

My favorite part of Anastasia glosses- the applicator.

  It is not a brush but a flat applicator which gives me more control.

To purchase this set:
http://www.sephora.com/kisses-on-my-list-volume-2-hydrafull-gloss-set-P375790

And here is some behind the scenes footage on these products in action.




*I received a sample for review.

Spa for Health?

6 Beauty Treatments That Can Save Your Life

Want to add years to your life? These six treatments will give you long-term benefits. Keep reading to see how

This is a TotalBeauty.com Health & beauty article If getting pampered wasn’t appealing enough, here's another reason you should have regular spa days: Getting these six health and beauty treatments regularly can help you live a longer and happier life. See how adding these treatments to your routine can save your life now See lifesavers

Mama of the Month at This Little Mama

I am so excited and honored to be Mama of the Month over at This Little Mama.  I have been reading this blog ever since I met the amazing Elizabeth.  I am so happy she came into my life as I have learned so much about blogging, being a mama, Hollywood gossip, working out, party planning, monogramming, and so much more from her.  She is a creative and fun writer too so check out her blog.  I know you will love it as much as I do!

Here is the link to Mama of the Month:  http://www.thislittlemama.com/2012/08/30/jean-di-maria/

Thanks Elizabeth!

Fall 2012 Trends

7 Fall Trends You Can Achieve on The Cheap

Look fabulous this fall without splurging. See the seven fall looks you can DIY with amazing drugstore finds

This is a TotalBeauty.com face makeup article YSL, Chanel, and Prada may rule the runway -- but you don't need these luxe labels' products to get the hottest fall looks. Recreate all the major fall trends --and save big -- by stocking up at your local drugstore. Mulberry lips, here we come! Get fall trends

ROC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream Review

I have been using lots of RoC products lately.  I am pretty amazed I didn't use them earlier in life.  I guess I wasn't convinced by the commercials, ads, awards, etc?  I guess I was just late to the game.

Not too late now.  I am still in my 40s.  I can still help correct some damage, right?  This new eye cream is one place to start since I have major issues with eye puffiness and fine lines.  I love this stuff!  I have been using it daily.  I can use it under my makeup too and it doesn't goop my foundation.  It gives just the right amount of moisture and it is sensitive. 

Anyhow, seriously ladies, go buy some!  It's a great eye cream and I hope they never stop making it.

http://www.rocskincare.com/



* I received a sample for review.

nuNAAT Silicon Collection Review

I just tried a great line called nuNAAT hair products.  I tested the Silicon collection because of the condition my hair is in - colored and dry.  This line heals damaged hair from the inside out.  It uses natural strengtheners like Ceramides and Keratin, plus shine enhancers like Silk and Pearl Proteins, in addition to the taming powers of Silicone combine to restore even the dullest, driest, most damaged hair.

I used the NAAT Silicon Healthy Restoration Moisturizing Shampoo first in the shower.  It really cleansed my hair and added a lot of moisture.  I followed it up with the NAAT Silicon Moisturizing Hair Mask.  I left this in while I shaved my legs and it was just about the right time to rinse it out.  My hair felt so thick and revitalized after using this mask.  I loved it! 

After my shower I added the NAAT Silicon Protective Leave-In conditioner.  It made my hair soft and easy to comb through with a wide tooth comb.  The instructions state to rinse it out but I tried it both ways and my hair could handle leaving it in all night.  I would suggest following the instructions for the best results. 

The next day I added some NAAT Silicon Hair Polishing Serum to style my hair with my curling iron.  I made sure to use just a little and then added some after I was done styling my hair and before using my final spritz of hairspray. 

After using the nuNAAT Silicon line I have noticed my hair is much smoother and easier to style in a straight hairstyle (not all crazy and frizzy).  It also helps my curls stay more conformed and smooth. 

Overall, it is a great line! For your convenience, nuNAAT® products can be purchased through a variety of retailers, including Walgreens, Walmart, Sally Beauty Supplies, Navarro Discount Pharmacy or online at Walgreens.com, drugstore.com and sallybeauty.com.


You can learn more at the website: http://www.nunaat.com/ or visit them on Facebook or Twitter. 



*I received a sample for review

Introducing Koral Jeans

I am a great fan of jeans as my name is Jean!  I am like most women trying to always find the right pair that fits well and enhances one's figure. 

*Source: Koral Instagram Photo

Just wanted to let you know about a new brand named Koral.  It is the highly anticipated brainchild of David Koral and his father Peter Koral and partner Rick Crane, who built the premium denim market as we know it today with the launch of 7 For All Mankind. It is a collection of crafted denim with impeccable style and attention to detail, bringing back the true essence of a great pair of jeans: simple, but refined; stylish and sexy, but real. It is available in fine boutiques nationwide.

Koral is the first project from these denim industry icons since they sold 7FAM in 2007. The brand is making its debut with a women's denim collection for fall 2012, featuring its signature "Lived in Length" line and an assortment of fashion pieces. A men's line will launch for Spring 2013.

How exciting!  You can check out their website at: http://www.korallosangeles.com/

You can also find Koral on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Anastasia She Wears It Well Eye Shadow Palette Review

Anastasia has done it again!  Their latest makeup creation is a 20's and 30's Old Hollywood Glamour inspired makeup palette called SHE WEARS IT WELL.  The colors are divine and gorgeous.  The pictures do not do them justice.  I have included an instructional video as well if you would like to see the product in action and the amazing results. 

The SHE WEARS IT WELL palette is sold at Sephora for 34.00 (a $90.00 value).  It would make a great holiday gift for that makeup enthusiast in your life! 

For more information on Anastasia products visit their website at: http://www.anastasia.net/

*I received a sample for review.

Yes To Carrots, Cucumbers, and Blueberries Review

I recently tried some new products and would love to share my results.  I am really loving all these Yes to.. Products.  They all smell great too!

Yes to Blueberries Age Refresh Softening Facial Exfoliator.  This is a great product to use in the shower.  It works especially great after wearing sunscreen all day, doing yard work and getting the grime off your face.  It is gentle enough to use everyday but I use it every other day.  I like that is left a nice moisture to my face and did not leave it feeling dry and cracked.  It smells great too!

Yes To Blueberries Deep Wrinkle Night Cream.  It is formulated with Wild Acacia, to smooth wrinkles, and Cupuacu Seed Butter to 'plump' skin, leaving it with a smooth, youthful appearance.  I use this right after the shower and it is so soothing and works overnight to repair my skin.  It did not make me break out and my skin felt supple in the morning. 

99% Natural, Free of Parabens, Phthalates and SLS

Yes To Blueberries Deep Wrinkle Filler:  This product is great for those who have a few trouble areas on their face.  I added a little of this right before I applied my makeup.  That way it could work all day!

Yes to Cucumbers Yes to Cucumbers Eye Makeup Removing Pads are the perfect thing to come home to after a long day of work (or fun).  These pads are gentle and they are hypoallergenic so you can say yes to clean and not yes to burning eyes!  I enjoyed using these each night and even cheated using a second one to remove my lipstick.  They actually exfoliated my lips and made them tingly and fresh.   They contain Calendula, Chamomile, and Organic Cucumbers.  These are a must have and I think I will buy them for all my girlfriends for their holiday makeup bags. 
99% Natural, Dermatologist Tested, Opthamologist Tested, Hypoallergenic, Non-irritating, Free of Parabens, Phthalates and SLS

Yes to Carrots Leave-In Conditioner:  My review is here.  I just wanted you all to know I am on my second bottle!  Love it.

For more information visit the website at: http://www.yestocarrots.com

* I received samples for my review.