TheShadesOfU.com

Gone For A Few...

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Yes, I will be missing in action for a few days here on The Shades Of U. I don't know if I will be able to blog during that time frame, but I will be back with lots more reviews, looks, and most importantly, Holiday giveaways for y'all! In the meantime, do browse the blog; you can use the Search function located on the right side bar, or check out the labels (or tags) also located on the right side bar. I am pretty sure you will find some article, review, or look that you have not read or seen before.

So sit back, relax, browse the blog and enjoy the pics, and I will be back before you know it!

Hanksin Control BB Cream Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:17:00 +0000

I was able to try another brand of BB (or blemish balm) cream, Hanskin Control Skin. I've heard a lot of good reviews about this product, so I snagged one on eBay.

Disclaimer:I will not be doing a review on its skincare claims because I have not used this product long enough to make a conclusion on this. I will be doing a review simply based on the finish, texture, coverage and staying power of the BB cream as a tinted moisturizer/foundation.

I liked the consistency of this bb cream. It's neither too runny nor too thick, and it is has a slight sheen even unblended on the skin.

On the package, it says that it "is made from natural material and is gentle to the skin. Continued use will smooth and moisturize your skin revealing bright and firm, healthy skin."

When blended, it morphs into this beautiful radiant finish that gives skin a dewy look. I am particularly happy with the fact that it is neither too yellow, too light, nor too dark, unlike other BB creams I've tried. This brand is one of the better matches for my skintone.

As with my other BB creams, I apply this as follows: I place a small amount on the back of my hand, take my Coastal Scents's kabuki-on-a-stick brush, and apply the product on my face in circular, buffing motions till it is blended seamlessly. I apply another light layer as needed. I top off with a very light layer of mineral foundation, just enough to set the BB cream, then a light dusting of translucent powder to help in oil control.

(A look using Hanskin BB cream and the rest of the review after the jump)

I used a small amount of DreamWorld mineral foundation in Theia over Hanskin Control Skin BB cream.

Upside:

1. Very affordable compared to high end or department store tinted moisturizers; I bought it on Ebay for $35 including shipping for a 43.5 g of product, and you only need to use a dime size amount for each application. You can apply more if needed, but in light layers.

2. Makes skin look luminous and radiant.

3. Can be used as a tinted moisturizer or a makeup base.

4. Perfect shade for my skintone.

Downside:

1. As with most BB creams, if you have sensitive skin, you might break out using this product. This didn't break me out, though, and this is one of the few ones that didn't.

2. Only comes in one shade.

This product also earns a thumbs up from The Shades Of U. I love the radiant finish it gives, and the supposed skin benefits ain't that bad as well.

Banish Beauty Blunders Care Of Ms. Manicure Products

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:55:00 +0000

We’ve all been guilty of having a major beauty blunder at least once or twice in our lives. We leave the house with too much blush on, deodorant stains on our black t-shirts, fake eyelashes dangling from our perfectly made-up faces – the list goes on and on. Forgo common disasters and refine your inner recessionista by thinking outside the box with your beauty products. Let Ms. Manicure give you a lesson in how to fix fashion fiascos with these multi-functional nail products.

Knit-Pick Your Sweaters

Don’t worry about hand washing your favorite sweaters anymore. Solve your pilling problems with Ms. Pedicure’s Rock ‘n Sole ($1.99). By rubbing this dry pumice stone over sweaters, the little fuzzies that cause so much distress will be gone. Make sure to lay the clothing on a flat surface before gently stroking the fabric with the stone. Keep the stone clean and dry for future use!

Loose Lashes

Scared your eyelashes might fall off into your dinner plate a la the last date you went on? Give them extra security by applying them with the tweezers from Ms. Manicure‘s Handy Dandy Mani kit ($9.99). First, let lash glue sit for 30 to 60 seconds prior to using. Then, pick up individual lashes with tweezers, dip the ends in glue and securely apply them to the base of the eyelid. Make sure to coat them with mascara afterwards for extra protection!

Save Suede

Spill something on your new suede boots? You might not have to head for the shoe store for another pair just yet. Grab an emery board, like Ms. Manicure’s Call Your Buff ($2.99), and lightly rub the stain. Use the soft, buffer side of this four-sided board to ensure that your boots don’t get damaged in the process. Then, hold the shoe over steam from a boiling pot (or teakettle) on the stove to completely remove it. This works for suede clothing as well!

For a list of retailers and to check out other recession-friendly products, visit www.msmanicure.com and www.mspedicure.com.

The Cure for Dry Winter Skin

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:32:00 +0000

The Cure for Dry Winter Skin

Find out which top hand hydrators our testers found desk drawer-worthy

We spend hundreds on youth-enhancing face lotions -- but when's the last time your hands got some love? "Hands show aging more than the face," says Los Angeles-based dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad. Good point. So we had 10 testers review hand creams for two weeks. Which ones offered the best hydration -- and which were just greasy? Find out in the ratings.

See products

The 12 Best Foundations Under $15

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:50:00 +0000

The 12 Best Foundations Under $15

Get flawless-looking skin with these beauties from L'Oreal, CoverGirl and more

When it comes to foundation, it really pays to find the perfect product for you. After all, all the eye makeup and lip products in the world won't make you look gorgeous if your skin looks blah. On the bright side, TotalBeauty.com readers have found that you don't have to spend a fortune to get flawless-looking skin. In fact, there are plenty of cheapie products that will give you just that! Read on to see what they are.

See foundations

No. 12: Almay Line Smoothing Compact Makeup for Dry Skin, $14.78

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8

"It actually does improve the appearance of lines ..."

No. 11: Maybelline New York Pure Stay Powder Foundation, $7.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8

"First time in my life, someone commented on my 'beautiful skin' ..."

No. 10: CoverGirl Advanced Radiance Age-Defying Liquid Makeup, $10.13

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8

"I recently saw a friend I hadn't seen for a while and she asked if I had something done ..."

Want to see what's No. 1? Click here!

Brush Love 40% Off Coupon

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:24:00 +0000

Brush Love is offering our readers a special 40% discount. Just type in “blog40” during checkout for the discount. Please note that this offer expires on 11-25-09 and does not apply to the Mason Pearson brand.

Have fun shopping and enjoy the discount!

Brush Lab and Satina Brushes Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:23:00 +0000

Styling hair requires more than just using whatever brush you can find on the counter and a blowdryer. There is actually a science to lush, gorgeous locks. I received some media samples of new tools that will help achieve the kind of professional-looking blow dried hair that I crave. These hair tools were actually designed to create professional salon-style blow-dried hair. They are Brush Lab and Satina brushes from www.brushlove.com. What is good about the site is that there is an explanation as to why the brush was designed that way and how the brush improves hair condition and all-over blow-drying experience:

Brushlab ceramic flow hair brush helps reduce frizz. Its round aerated barrel allows air to flow through the brush instead of bouncing off and blowing hair away from the brush. The entire barrel is ceramic and produces uniform heat quickly. The short, stiff bristles are treated with tourmaline to help break up moisture molecules and help destroy odor-causing bacteria.

My Take: I have flat, baby-fine hair and I need to blow-dry my hair to achieve the volume and body that I crave. I tried this hair brush while blow-drying and I loved how it made my hair all poufy and big, which is what I ever really wanted my hair to be. My hair had body after a whole day at work, which is amazing because my hair turns limp after only a few hours. Of course, I used this brush with the help of other volumizing products, and the results were pretty good.

Satina Bubble Grip Black Tourmaline Round Boar Jumbo Hair Brush

SATINA hairbrush gives you smooth styled hair that is full of body and shine with our professional quality hairbrush. TOURMALINE infused boar bristle brushes produce infra-red negative ions when heated with your blow dryer, restoring shine, eliminating static, and conditioning the hair from the inside-out as you curl or straighten.

My Take: This boar bristle brush is best to use on hair with a lot of frizz because it restores shine on the locks while elimating static, which I utterly loathe. I also use this when blow-drying my hair, and for those particular times when my hair seems dull and lifeless. The boar bristles make the hair shinier without the annoying static.

Brushlab Pretty Pink Dual Mirror Brush Combo Hair Brush 61161
Ultra-fashionable dual purpose hand mirror plus nylon ball-tipped styling/detangling brush. Great size for travel.

My Take: I like to use this brush to detangle my hair. I also like to bring it with me for travel because the size is pretty convenient. Also, love the girly-girl pink color.

Brush Lab and Satina have many different kinds of brushes to suit every individual's hair needs. I have short hair so it's pretty low-maintenance, but for you ladies (and gents) out there with longer locks, you can find brushes that suit your hair's styling demands on the Brush Love site.

13 Most Outrageous Celebrity Updos

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:23:00 +0000

13 Most Outrageous Celebrity Updos

Check out these gravity-defying hairstyles on celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Fergie and more

Most celebrity hairstyles garner praise and admiration, but these horrible hairstyles left us scratching our heads. Why on earth would any A-list celebrity take such a crazy risk by sporting one of these over-the-top styles? Probably because they wanted to stand out in the crowd, right? Well, we guess it worked -- just not in a good way!

See updos

Dermatologists Launch New Web Site and Game to Teach Kids About Healthy Skin, Hair and Nail Habits

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:56:00 +0000

"Sammy The Skin Cell"

Dermatologists Launch New Web Site and Game
to Teach Kids about Healthy Skin, Hair and Nail Habits
Sammy the Skin Cell is the Star Avatar at KidsSkinHealth.org

SCHAUMBURG, ILL (Nov 2, 2009) – A unique new Web site created by dermatologists lets kids learn how to practice good skin care virtually, or risk the consequences of pimples, greasy hair, a poison ivy rash and sunburn. The interactive game, “It’s a Skin Cell’s Life,” is just one of the many features on the American Academy of Dermatology’s (Academy) new Web site www.KidsSkinHealth.org, which provides information about caring for skin, hair and nails to kids ages 8-12 and their parents.

“The Academy is committed to teaching children and their parents about skin, hair and nail care, and an interactive and engaging Web site is the perfect way to do that,” said dermatologist David M. Pariser, MD, FAAD, president of the Academy. “The Web site, which was created with feedback from children and their parents, helps us encourage the development of lifelong habits that ensure good health, such as using sunscreen for protection against the harmful rays of the sun.”

The KidsSkinHealth.org home page features two portals: For Kids and For Grown Ups.

Kids Portal – Sammy the Skin Cell guides kids through the site, which explains how skin, hair and nails work, and how to take care of them. There’s information on conditions that can affect them as well as fun facts, answers to common questions and a dictionary that includes audio pronunciations courtesy of Sammy. Kids can play “It’s a Skin Cell’s Life” as the avatar Sammy or Suzy the Skin Cell and earn points by using their new-found knowledge to take care of their avatars, search for words, test skin knowledge, catch bugs, explore mazes and zap ultraviolet rays.

Grown Ups Portal – Paralleling the information on the Kids Portal, the site guides parents in helping their children care for their skin, hair and nails, and provides information about adult conditions, such as rosacea and psoriasis, and how to care for aging skin. The site also includes activities for parents to do with their children and answers to common questions.

To develop the Web site, the Academy surveyed kids and moms about what they’d like to see on a site about skin, hair and nails. The top-rated response for the kids was games (86 percent) but they also wanted information about:

-what to do if your nail gets hurt or bruised (60 percent)
-what makes hair grow (54 percent) and
-information about bug bites (49 percent)

Moms wanted to know that the site is run by a respected health organization (92 percent), for their kids to learn proper hygiene for skin, hair and nails (49 percent) and to have an area where they could interact with their child while learning about health issues (39 percent). It’s all there on KidsSkinHealth.org.

The Academy solely developed the Web site’s content. The following industry supporters helped underwrite the cost of the Web site’s creation: Beiersdorf, Inc., Dermik Laboratories, a business of sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC, Galderma Laboratories, L.P., Graceway Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Intendis, Inc., Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Ortho Dermatologics, PharmaDerm, a division of Nycomed US, Inc., Procter & Gamble, and Stiefel Laboratories, Inc.

About American Academy of Dermatology
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.

=======
My Take: As a mom, I welcome these kinds of websites to inform the youth about how to take care of their bodies. A website focused on skin and nails for kids is a very fresh concept, and I love how they make the topics kid-friendly and at the same time informative. There are a lot of tips on how to stay healthy and how to care for skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. If you are a mom or a concerned sister or aunt or even grandma, check out this cool new website.

Holiday Stocking Stuffer Ideas From Hard Candy

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:43:00 +0000

During the holiday season, girls everywhere will be thrilled to unwrap Hard Candy cosmetics. Rather than the expected fragrances, CD’s or themed socks, Hard Candy is a colorful, addictive and tempting collection that keeps on giving.

Since its launch, the Hard Candy brand has been scooped up by consumers, loved by editors and respected by beauty industry leaders. Recommended to showcase the holidays beautifully.

-Lash Tinsel Glitter Mascara the ultimate holiday accessory. Santa’s helper never looked so gorgeous!
-Just Nails – festive fingers in stunning shades
-Curl Up & Dye – Long lasting curl and a twinkle of glitter and all eyes will be on you
-Painted Lady – A work of art in a perfect little package. Kiss boring stocking stuffers goodbye
-Eye Candy Cream Glitter Shadows, the perfect accessory to a dazzling dress

Easy to find exclusively at Walmart and easier on your holiday budget (everything priced $10 or less), Hard Candy should be on everyone’s holiday list. And why not pick up a gift for Santa’s helper while you’re there? You deserve it!

Happy holidays from Hard Candy!

Purple and Pink Eye Look Using Aromaleigh Mineral Eye Shadows

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:22:00 +0000

Belated Happy Halloween! To celebrate it, I wore a predominantly purple eye look using Aromaleigh shadows. I honestly love Aromaleigh shadows because they are very pigmented and are a dream to apply and blend on the skin. They are not just mini mica explosions with all sparkle and no color pay-off. There are also over 300 eyeshadow colors and textures to choose from. I also don't need to wait weeks just to receive my online order; I get them almost always within three business days.

Anyways, I used mostly shadows from the Les Papillons collection. I also used a Rocks! Sonic eyeshadow in blueorchid, I believe. I am not sure because the label is peeled off.

For the lid color, I used Soulmate from the Valentine 2009 collection.

I also used Baby Petals to highlight from the MAC Heatherette Trio 2 palette.

Anyhoo, here is a step-by-step. All eye products are Aromaleigh unless otherwise stated.

Apply MAC Bare Canvas paint all over lid. Apply MAC Fresco Rose paint pot on lid. Foil Soulmate on lid using the Loew Cornell Maxine's Mop 3/8" (MAC 239 dupe) using MAC Charged Water.

Using the same brush, apply Ephemeral Violet dry on outer lid and crease.

Using the same brush, apply a little Dormant Dream to mix with Ephemeral Violet. Blend with MAC 224 brush.

Using the same brush, add blueorchid. Blend carefully using the 224.

Using the same brush, apply Emergent Beauty foiled on the outer lid using MAC Charged Water. Wait to dry and blend with 224.

To retain the purple tones, add a little bit of Vigil of Change dry using the same brush.

Using the same brush, apply Soul Takes Flight dry on outer lid. Blend with the 224.

Using Stila No. 5 brush, apply MAC Baby Petals to highlight the browbone.

Line upper lashline with L'Oreal Lineur Intense liquid liner (my favorite liner of late).

Rim eyes (waterline and tightline) using Urban Decay 24/7 glide on kohl pencil in Zero. Apply Red Cherry false lashes #903. Apply mascara.

FACE:
Dr. Denese SPF30 Tinted Defense Day Cream
Buff'd mineral foundation in Almond
Aromaleigh ultra resolution finishing powder in Translucent
MAC Sculpt powder to contour
MAC The Perfect Cheek blush
MAC Perfect Topping mineralize skinfinish on top of blush

LIPS:
MAC lipliner in Whirl
MAC lipstick in Masque
MAC lipglass (I forget the name; check back tonight to find out!)

Winner of Sothys Hydroptimale THI3 Hydrating Cream and Hydrating Mask

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:50:00 +0000

Finally, we have a winner! All entries are in, and one winner was randomly chosen by the Contest Machine to win Sothys Hydroptimale THI3 Hydrating Cream and Hydroptimale THI3 Hydrating Mask .

And the winner is...

(*Drumroll*)

(Name of winner announced below the cut)

Katie in NC

Congratulations!! Please check your e-mail inbox (and your spam box too just in case) for notification e-mail from and The Shades Of U. Please reply within 72 hours to the e-mail with your mailing address so the prize can be sent to you expeditiously. Your mailing address shall be provided to the sponsor, which shall then mail the prize to you.

Thank you very much to all the U.S.-based readers who participated. Stay tuned for more giveaways!

Best and Worst Medium-Length Cuts for Your Face Shape

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:43:00 +0000

Best and Worst Medium-Length Cuts for Your Face Shape

Match your face shape with one of these celebrities', then see the best (and worst!) cut for you

Medium-length hair is the most popular length among women for good reasons. It's flattering, low-maintenance, sexy and versatile. Finding the right cut for your face shape, and avoiding the worst, is essential.

See hair cuts

Celebrity Hair Color Hall of Fame: Best Brunettes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 06:48:00 +0000

Celebrity Hair Color Hall of Fame: Best Brunettes

Considering a color change? Peruse these photos of Megan Fox, Jennifer Lopez and more to inspire your new look

Joel Warren, L'Oreal Professionnel Hair Color Ambassador shares expert advice on how to get these standout brunette shades in the comfort of your own bathroom, for less than 20 bucks.

See photos

Last Chance To Join Sothys Hydroptimale Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 06:28:00 +0000

To all The Shades Of U subscribers and followers in the U.S.: this is your last chance to participate in this blog's Sothys Hydroptimale THI3 Light & Comfort Hydrating Cream and Hydrating Mask Giveaway. One lucky winner in the U.S. will win amazing prizes from Sothys U.S.A. All you need to do is subscribe to The Shades Of U via RSS feed, e-mail, Twitter, Facebook or Google/Blogger, and follow the contest rules set forth in the blog entry via the link above. Deadline for submission of entries is Sunday, November 1, 2009 at 11:55 p.m. EDT.

Goodluck!

Easy Makeover Tricks You Should Try

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:57:00 +0000

Easy Makeover Tricks You Should Try

See how day-to-night makeup and sexy face-framing layers can update your look

Makeover dream team -- American Idol lead makeup-artist Mezhgan, and stylists Paul Perez and Leland Ferrell and colorist Adam Scheib from the Sally Hershberger salon in Los Angeles -- give Web designer Dana a pretty-yet-easy-to-maintain beauty update. See how you too can transform your look without adding minutes to your routine. Photographs: Andrew Stiles

See tips

YSL Parisienne Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:11:00 +0000

I was given a media sample of YSL Parisienne, the latest fragrance offering from Yves Saint Laurent. YSL launches the new fragrance in the United States this month, complete with a sensuous new commercial featuring Kate Moss:

First of all, the packaging is pretty simple but is a delight to the eyes- it reminds of a glass liquor bottle containing an alluring rose-colored liquid. Very simple lines, sleek, but attractive.

YSL Parisienne is obviously a modern take on the classic YSL Paris. I am fond of floral scents so this fragrance is up my alley. I like that the scent is not purely rose as pure rose scents sometimes have the cloying effect on me. The top notes are vinyl accord evoking metal gloss and varnish, followed by the tartness of cranberry, but softened by the fruity scent of blackberry. Its heart notes are definitely the unmistakable sensuality of damask rose, mixed with the powdery violet. It is this powdery violet that I don't really care very much for. However, the drydown is amazing on my skin. Its base notes are a cornucopia of patchouli, sandalwood and musk.

Imagine the sensuality of roses mixed with the mysterious, woodsy scent of sandalwood and musk, but uplifting the somewhat dark elements are the fruity notes of blackberry and cranberry. It evokes mystery, sensuality, confidence, with a touch of playfulness. This is not your high school or college fragrance, but it's also not your grandmother's perfume. This is definitely for a woman in her prime, not too young, but not too old either. A woman in her thirties perfectly captures the fragrance, and I believe Kate Moss in the commercial depicts the kind of woman who wears this fragrance.

At first spritz, I found myself attracted to the alluring rose notes, but I was kinda disappointed at the powdery violet notes. Amazingly, though, the powdery violet scent disappears as the product stays longer on my skin, and as I said, the drydown is pleasant - a wonderful mix of woodsy floral with the tiniest hint of fruit notes.

The fragrance was created by Sophia Grojsman and Sophie Labbé for YSL, and the Eau de Parfum is available in 1 oz., 1.6 oz., and 3.0 oz. bottles.

13 Best Celebrity Side-Swept Hairstyles

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:24:00 +0000

13 Best Celebrity Side-Swept Hairstyles

All it takes to transform a blah hairstyle into a hot trend is a different position

Take a nod from celebrities on the red carpet by sporting a side-swept style. The hottest looks right now, whether they're updos, left down, or adorned with a jeweled accessory, are sexy side-swept looks. See how these celebrities successfully pulled off the trend!

See hairstyles

My MAC Green Eyeshadow Swatches

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:05:00 +0000

I can't believe that I haven't posted my green MAC eyeshadow swatches yet, considering that green is my favorite color. I did these swatches way back in July, and I guess I just got sidetracked from posting it. Anyways, here are some of them. I have mostly limited edition ones, but it wouldn't hurt to see them anyway, because sooner or later, some of these will be repromoted in a future collection.

Metamorph is a limited edition eyeshadow from the Madame B. collection from way back. It is a highly-coveted shadow because it's been discontinued and the color is gorgeous. It is the perfect, springy light green for me that works great on the inner or lower lid area. The finish is amazing and it glides like butter on the skin and gives a pretty, low sheen. I also have Meadowland and Pink Papillion from the same collection and these three are gems from the Madame B. collection.

Pagan is a matte yellow-green from the Alexander McQueen collection. Like a lot of others, I wasn't too impressed with its color pay-off. You really have to pack it on and have a really good colored base underneath to make it pop. If you do get it to work for you, though, it is a pretty lime green that would also work great as a lid color.

Ah, Lustreleaf. Many hated it because it is in lustre formula, the most-loathed MAC shadow formula in my opinion, because of the lack of color pay-off. What is actually a point against Lustreleaf turned out to be its strongest trait. It applied sheerly so that you can actually use this green shadow to highlight your browbones when you do green-based eye looks. It's also great for the inner corners of the eyes.

Aquavert is a limited edition from the Lure collection in 2006, and it got repromoted in this year's Sugar Sweet collection. It is a light, frosty mint green that is very springy in look and feel. This would look great paired with darker greens or olives.

Warm Chill is another limited edition from the Cool Heat collection. It is a frosty sea foam green with gold pearl that I hardly use, but it is pretty nonetheless. The color would show up better over a green paint pot or other green base.

Meadowland is such a highly coveted LE shadow. It is also from the Madame B. collection. It is also a seafoam green but it is darker than Warm Chill and Meadowland has a lot better color pay-off. It is such a beautiful shade that would work great as an inner corner or lower lid color.

Guacamole is one of my very prized eyeshadows. It is such a highly-coveted shadow because it is a limited edition one from the Salsabelle collection, and whenever I see it being sold online, the prices were downright exorbitant and outrageous. I think Guacamole is worth the hype, though. It is a beautiful mid-green with gold flecks, a grass green with superior color pay-off.

Wondergrass is a limited edition shadow from the C-Shock collection. It is a bright grass green, perhaps the same depth as Guacamole but a lot brighter. It's quite bold, has a grittier texture than most MAC shadows, but the color pay-off is decent and if you like greens, you will probably like this one too.

Swimming is another lustre and is probably a few shades deeper than Lustreleaf, but more or less the same texture. This is a popular permanent shade, a mix of lime green and grass green. Lovely color, but it is a lustre so the color payoff is not as excellent.

Lucky Green - I was indeed lucky when I chanced upon Lucky Green on an online sale. A limited edition from the Belle Azure collection. It is another coveted green, a beautiful one at that. It is a gorgeous moss-lime green with heavy gold shimmer, with a rich and buttery texture typical of Veluxe Pearl formulas. Amazingly beautiful, in my opinion. This would look great with darker greens, olives and even with greys and blacks for a beautiful smokey eye. I hope this gets repromoted soon.

(Read the rest of reviews and descriptions after the jump)

Waternymph is also from the Lure collection. This is more teal to my eyes, but texture is a frost yet glides like veluxe pearl. Another gem in my collection.

Newly Minted is a matte offering from the Matte2 (Matte Squared) collection. It is horrible in color pay-off if you don't apply a good, preferably green or black base underneath. However, if you take time to layer it over a good base, it is a pretty minty matte that would work as a lid color. Beautifully contrasts with black, greys, browns, taupes.

Humid, from the permanent collection, is my all-time favorite green crease color. Whenever I use greens or golds, Humid is almost always my crease color, unless I use Grand Entrance from the Holiday 2008 Warm Eyes palette. It is a beautiful deep dark emerald green; great paired with any shade of gold, green, olive, and black. It would also work with beiges and other neutral colors.

Greensmoke is a permanent color, a nice dark olive green that is another good crease color. This looks great with Sumptous Olive and other light greens. Would also work great for smokey eyes.

Lastly, Flourishing is also from the Matte2 collection, a nice dark olive-grey-green. Wonderful as an outer lid color, as I love to use mattes to deepen the crease or create depth in the eye look. Another favorite of mine.

There you go, my MAC green eyeshadow swatches!

Check out my other MAC swatch posts:

MAC Neutral Eyeshadows
MAC Pink and Purple Eyeshadows
MAC Blue and Teal Eyeshadows

Glam Halloween Looks and Tips From Celeb Makeup Artist

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:56:00 +0000

Halloween is a time to break out humorous or gory costumes, but for the single ladies out there, it’s an excuse to dress up and look ultra glam. Learn how to get the most from your makeup, and the rest of the costume comes easy!

Here are simple beauty and costume tips from celeb makeup artist Brett Freedman that will guarantee all eyes on you:

BARBIE – Perfect Cat Eyes: Give a silver dusting to the whole lid from lash line to brow line and into the tear duct. Add a sweep of a purple-gray hue to the crease of the eyelid to add depth. Then use a felt tip liquid eyeliner (Brett loves Sephora's version) and lightly dot on the lid, staying as close as possible to the lash line. Go back over and this time press the felt tip firmly into skin and 'connect the dots' to smooth the line, fanning it up and out toward the temples on the ends. Finish off your makeup look with pretty pink cheeks and lips!
· Pair with a pink form-fitting dress, pearls, pumps and the perfect clutch!

MARILYN MONROE – Bombshell Makeup: Start with a foundation that's a shade lighter than you usually use (try Revlon’s Custom Creations foundation). This sets the stage for the crisp, retro look. Shade the crease of your eye with a soft beige-y taupe shadow. With a sponge-tipped applicator, apply a matte, bone colored shadow (or pale face powder) all over lids and add a silvery shimmer along the brow bone to highlight. The black liquid liner is very important. Run from tear duct to outer corner very close to the lash line. Extend liner up and out. Corner false lashes finish this alluring eye look. Fill out lips with a true blue-red lip liner and fill in with a deep red lipstick. Use very minimal blush in a soft pink. Ice the cake with Marilyn's iconic mole aka your black liquid liner!
· Pair with a white halter dress...don’t forget the windy subway grate!

40’S PINUP GAL - For the brunette and redhead beauties that can’t pull off the Marilyn look without a wig, try the same makeup as above, but pair with voluminous hair, cherry red nails, maillot bathing suit, and pumps!

TWIGGY – Pop Art Eyes: You'll need two sets of false eyelashes for this monochromatic mod look - one very full, dark pair for the top and a second sparser, spikier pair for the bottom (try Andrea Perma-Lash). Sculpt lid out from the tear duct to outer corner with matte gray shadow - be very exaggerated and rounded and arc it like a rainbow. Take a near-white silver shimmer eye shadow and apply boldly to lid and brow bone. Use a liquid liner on top and bottom, extending on the outer corners horizontally (toward the mid ear, not the temple). Apply false lashes to top and bottom lash lines. Steer clear of blush and go for a very pale, fleshy lipstick or gloss.
· Pair with a short cropped coif, mini printed shift dress and white boots made for walkin’.

HELEN OF TROY – Gold Dewy Makeup: Start with an all over tan and shimmery glow (Vanitymark’s Shimmerskin is great!). Gold and peach tones are your friends. Give you cheeks a sweep of warm apricot blush and work it up around eyes. Get an eye shadow quad in browns – use the palest shade to highlight under the brow bone and layer the shades from lightest to darkest. The darker the shade, the closer it should be to the lash line. Use a deep brown eyeliner pencil on the inner shelf of the eye for extra pop. Apply small, corner lashes to the top outer lash line to amp up lashes. Apply a peachy/golden gloss to lips. For the finishing touch, take a loose, sheer gold powder and dust over eye make up and along the tops of the cheekbones.
· Pair with a homemade draped toga or your fave little white dress, gladiator sandals and lots of gold bangles.

JOAN JETT – Smoky Eyes: It's all about the eyes. Too much is never enough. There will be little other make up so it's best to get your pow from really working your black eyeliner. Apply base as usual. Use a very neutral lip - clear gloss is best. Blush should be a fleshy, barely there pink. Using a soft black eyeliner, fill in your lid and under eye in quick strokes. Don't worry about getting it smooth and perfect because (in true rocker style) you're gonna smudge and blend with your finger. Curl your lashes and apply multiple layers of blue-black mascara (try L’Oreal Voluminous). Once mascara dries, take a small dab of clear lip gloss and rub into lid and lash line. This will give the liner a wet, naughty look. Rock on!
· Pair with a cropped motorcycle jacket, white tank, skinny jeans and boots...and an air guitar if you’re feeling festive!

Brett Freedman is an LA-based makeup artist that works with celebs such as Vanessa Hudgens, Emily Blunt, Jessica Biel, Jessica Lucas, Reba McEntire, and more.

Konad Nail Stamp Art: Flowers and OPI Get Me To The Taj On Time

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:22:00 +0000

Just a quick post about the Konad art I did recently. I wasn't too happy with the outcome because some of the images were blurred out by acetone I was using to clean up my work. However, I love the color combination. Take Me To The Taj on Time is not the kind of shade I would wear by itself (seems to be too dirty a white on me), but the contrast of the black image and the light background is nice. All in all, it looks clean but definitely not boring.

The 10 Most Vain Cities

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:26:00 +0000

The 10 Most Vain Cities

Mirror, mirror on the wall, which cities in the U.S. are the vainest of them all?

We're all for wanting to look good -- heck, we spend our days telling you about the latest, greatest (and not so stellar) in the world of beauty. But then there's vanity -- being obsessed with looks to the point of spending major bucks on stuff that's supposed to make you pretty. We compiled data on the vanity industry -- plastic surgeons, tanning salons and businesses that cater to your hair, nails and skin -- to find out which cities are more obsessed than the rest. Find out if you live in a me-me-me city.

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Origins Launches Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:26:00 +0000

Origins Introduces NEW Drink Up™ Intensive Overnight mask to quench skin’s thirst. The company claims that when you apply this creamy, ultra-hydrating facial mask before bedtime, you will fall asleep confident that your skin will appear hydrated and refreshed with the morning’s first light.

The company gives an in-depth profile of this new product below:

Mega moisturizers including Orange Peel Wax, Avocado Oil and Mango Butter work with Sodium Hyaluronate and Apricot Kernel Oil to quench parched skin. Drink Up™ Intensive works while you sleep to repair and reinforce skin’s moisture barrier, helping to seal in valuable hydration long into the following day.

NEED: Skin temperature rises during the night causing precious moisture to be lost. Skin is also more permeable while we sleep, allowing products to absorb better and penetrate deeper, providing the perfect opportunity to counteract overnight dehydration.

PRODUCT: This intensely hydrating overnight mask utilizes the natural power of plants to quickly quench skin’s thirst and combat overnight moisture loss while boosting vital hydration levels. Within minutes of applying, skin’s moisture levels are clinically proven to surge to 75%.

BENEFITS: This rich, creamy mask utilizes a powerful combination of Orange Peel Wax, Avocado Oil and Mango Butter along with Sodium Hyaluronate and Apricot Kernel Oil to quench parched skin. Wheat Bran and Olive Extract fortify and seal skin’s vital moisture barrier with the help of Japanese Seaweed, ensuring replenished skin by daybreak. Pomegranate adds a natural boost of antioxidants while Oat Kernel Extract and Purple Rice help calm and soothe. By morning, a brimming reservoir of hydration amplifies skin’s ability to retain optimal moisture levels throughout the day. In a Sensory/Consumer study, 88% of women tested reported their skin was moisturized upon waking.

APPLICATION: Squeeze into palms to warm, and gently massage a liberal amount onto clean skin whenever skin feels thirsty. Tissue off excess.

PRICE: Suggested Retail Price is $21.00 for 3.4 oz/100ml tube

Key Ingredients include:

Orange Peel Wax- Helps maintain skin’s moisture levels.

Avocado Oil- Helps hydrate, condition and heal dry, damaged skin.

Mango Butter- Known for its nourishing properties, Mango Butter is used to heal and rejuvenate damaged skin.

Sodium Hyaluronate- Immediately provides skin with much needed moisture.

Apricot Kernel Oil A gentle, extremely nourishing emollient.

Wheat Bran- Helps fix and seal skin’s moisture barrier to prevent moisture loss.

Oat Kernel Extract- Helps soothe skin.

Pomegranate- A powerful antioxidant that also encourages the healing of skin cells.

AVAILABILITY: Drink Up™ Intensive Overnight mask to quench skin’s thirst will be available November 2009 at Origins Retail Stores, select Department Stores and via www.ORIGINS.com

MAC Holiday '09 Magic Mirth and Mischief Colour Collection Review and Swatches

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:07:00 +0000

I've had the chance to play with the colors in this collection and I was able to swatch them since early last week, but I've been caught up in many different things so I apologize for the delay. For some reason, I'd totally forgotten to swatch the lipsticks (maybe because I got sidetracked by the eyeshadow palettes). Anyways, will post the lippie swatches later this week, so come back to this post for those.

Anyways, I'd been really, really excited about the counterparts of this collection in previous years, namely Antiquitease in 2007, and "Red" She Said in 2008. Sad to say, however, this new holiday colour collection didn't really pique that much interest in me, although I find the dazzleglass lovely but not must-haves. I also prefer the mineralize trios of Red She Said compared to this year's duos. Maybe it's just me, but I really didn't find anything that made me say, "I have to get this!".

No flash

Anyways, the mineralize eyeshadows have pretty colors, but as always, the glittery crescents are a bit chunky to apply, and are better applied wet in my experience. My favorite is It's A Miracle, a base of deep blue blurgundy with a gold crescent. I don't know if I'm getting this, though, because I already have a lot of similar shades in my stash. Mayhem is another pretty one, a dirty brown gold with a silver crescent. The base of Midnight Madness is gorgeous: a dirty grey brown, and its crescent is a gold frost. I would have loved to get this one just for the dirty grey brown shade, but I am iffy about the gold one. Under Your Spell is a light yellow peach pink with a rich copper crescent. Blue Sorcery is another pretty color if you like blues, a base of bright turquoise with a silver crescent.

The dazzleglasses are pretty nifty. Jingle Jangle is a yellow pink gloss with red and sapphire pearl. I think this is the prettiest of the bunch because it is not super duper sheer; it has some pigment in it. The other two would make for beautiful, shiny, luscious lips, but I didn't see much color pay-off in them. She-Zam is a sheer silver with silver and red pearl, while Phiff!is a sheer yellow peach. I would love to have She-Zam though because it looks quite festive. This would probably give a pretty frosty ice maiden look, but it would be quite wearable because it's sheer.

Cremesheen Glasses

Boy Bait and Ever So Rich are repromotes from early this year's Creme Team collection. Boy Bait is a light neutral beige with pearl, and Ever So Rich is a sheer lilac. I used to not like the formula of the cremesheen glass, but surprisingly, it's growing on me. It is not as glittery as the dazzleglasses, but they give out this nice, luscious sheen on the lips that is gorgeous. Of the two repromotes, I'd go with Ever So Rich. It is wonderfully creamy, both in feel and in look.

(See swatches and the rest of the review after the jump)
Mineralize Blushes

I LOVE the colors of the blushes in this collection, if only I didn't have similar colors in my stash. Superdupernatural is a beautiful mid-tone coral which I believe would suit my warm undertones. Conjure Up is a dirty, mid-tone plum that is right up my alley. These are the colors I wear almost everyday, and I can see myself reaching for these every single day.

Softsparkle Eye Pencil

I've never been impressed with these softsparkle pencils, and it's no different this time. I honestly don't like tiny shards of glitter or pearl or whatever you call them in my eye pencils because I mainly use these for the waterline and to tightline, and it is dangerous to have those shards near the sensitive areas of the eye as it can scratch the cornea. Therefore, do not use these to tightline and to waterline, but limit them to the upper lashline. Iris Accents is a pale violet with silver pearl and Nightsky is a true black with silver pearl. Both are pretty, but I just don't use them.

All in all, I am a bit underwhelmed by this collection. However, if you are new to these colors and shades, I would recommend both mineralize blushes, mineralize eyeshadow duos in Midnight Madness, Mayhem and It's A Miracle, and dazzleglasses in She-Zam and Phiff!. As for the lipsticks, Total Wow! (blue pink berry) and Utter Fun (Fuchsia pink berry) would be fun colors for the holiday. As for the cremesheen glass, Ever So Rich is my fave.

12 Major Hair and Skin Issues -- Solved!

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:06:00 +0000

12 Major Hair and Skin Issues -- Solved!

Get help for everything from cystic acne, hair breakage, psoriasis and more

Sure, we all get the occasional breakout or dry patch of skin, but if you're suffering from a more serious hair or skin issue then you need serious help. That's why we asked Dr. Heidi Waldorf, director of Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, Arielle N. B. Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care, Jerry Teuschler, Principal Scientist for Proctor and Gamble Beauty and Grooming Science, and Head & Shoulders hairstylist Ryan Trygstad to weigh in. They gave advice for the big issues facing TotalBeauty.com readers, so read on for relief from your hair and skin woes.

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