Protect yourself from skin's #1 enemy {dermaglow® 70 SPF Cream review}

Protect your skin today and it will thank you tomorrow! Fellow Canadians, did you know that skin cancer is the most common cancer in Canada. What does this tell us? Well for starters, considering we don't live in tropical weather conditions overexposure to the Sun is a cause for concern. Regardless, of geographic locations (most believe that colder climates=less sun exposure) protection is key to prevention of skin cancer and other skin related issues (i.e aging). Health Canada recommends:
If possible, avoid being in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Look for shade, stay under a tree, or use an umbrella.
During outdoor activities, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. When the UV index is three or higher, you should also wear protective clothing and a large-brimmed hat.
Remember to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin. (Health Canada)

Since last month I've been testing out dermaglow® 70 SPF Cream. Not only do I use sunscreen as a preventative against skin cancer but also as an anti-aging treatment. Dermaglow® 70 SPF Cream is a non-greasy, light cream (don't let the cream in the title fool you, its acually lightweight) that's recommended for all skin types. For reference I have combination skin & didn't feel overly oily as a result of using this product. I also do not burn or turn pink while wearing this and I don't get that "white mask" face, key is to blend well into the skin. No strong fragrance and no breakouts (as some other sunscreens have done in the past). If your planning on buying a new sunscreen this season I highly suggest you give this a try.

For more info visit dermaglow.ca, as of May'09 can be found at major drug retailers across Canada.

(image courtesy of VitalScienceCorp, dermaglow.ca)

time for a pedicure {a look at my favourite pedicure products}

pedicure by beautyparler on Polyvore.com

There's nothing that screams Summer is here than a good pedicure. Make your feet happy and looking fabulous by using just a few products. Of course the best feeling is getting a professional pedicure but that's not always possible and can get pricey. With a little practice and the right tools your feet can look as sexy as mine:)
A few faves:
OPI nail polishes {my favourite, other good choices are Essie & Avon}
Tweezerman tools
Burt's Bees Peppermint Foot Lotion
LUSH Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter
LUSH Ocean Salt Cleanser {makes a great foot scrub}
Nail Polish remover {no preference}
Nail File {no preference}
foot bath {no preference, any tub will work if you don't want to spend $ on a messaging one)
What are your favourite pedicure products?

the Politics of Blogging {recap of the last few days in the beauty blogging community}

In the blogging world there is drama and politics, unfortunately. That being true in any realm and we all see it a work. However, the net is an open book and within the blogging community "drama" was/is expected. I'm not going to repeat what my fellow bloggers have written so well. So grab a latte and get comfortable:

Blogger Product Review Uproar

Should Beauty Brands work with Bloggers?

Fashion Blogs + Free Samples: The PR Community Speaks

Should Beauty Brands work with Bloggers? {eye4style's article}

Responding to Total Beauty's suggestion that Companies Should Not Work Directly with Bloggers

Total Beauty's Blogger Blunder

For myself, blogging was a result of being a member on a couple of beauty communities such as makeupalley, Specktra, and makeuptalk. I enjoy & continue to be member of those sites because of my obvious love for beauty & skincare items. Blogging for me is a hobby! Its not a "money making machine" and I don't do it to receive free products. Yes, I have received generous samples & full -size products however my philosophy is if I'm not pleased with the products than I don't review them. Also, if I feel that the products being offered are products that I would never personally purchase than why would I want to review them. My philosophy is to write honest reviews based on my own personal experiences with beauty products and hope that others can make their own purchasing decisions based on those experiences (or prevent others from spending money on products that will sit on their shelves). I try to write in a conversational manner because quite frankly I'm not writing a thesis and rather write the way I speak. At the end of the day I write this blog because I have fun with it & love meeting others who have the same interest. That's the most important thing...to do what you love and enjoy:)

What are your thoughts on the above post links? Why do you read blogs? Or any other comments.

(comic: willwriteforchocolate)

Don't forget to wear your sunglasses...

Sunglasses should be worn all year round however not all sunglasses are created equal therefore its not enough to just wear any kind. Here's the rundown:
Sunglasses should be worn anytime you are outdoors, particularly under these circumstances:
during the summer, when the level of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is at least three times higher than during the winter; when at the beach or in the water; when participating in winter sports, especially at high altitudes; when using medications that can cause photosentivity
You should always buy sunglasses with this feature. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight is linked to eye disease. UVB radiation is considered more dangerous to the eyes and skin than UVA radiation.
Both plastic and glass lenses absorb some UV light, but UV absorption can be improved by adding chemicals to the lens material during manufacturing or by applying special lens coatings.
Look for sunglasses that block 99% or 100% of all UV light. Some manufacturers’ labels say “UV absorption up to 400nm.” This is the same thing as 100% UV absorption. (eyecareamerica.org)

remember to wear sunglasses by beautyparler

Giveaway time! {Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara}

Who wants a little action in their makeup kit? Well this vibrating mascara is all you need. One lucky reader will get the chance to try out Maybelline's new Pulse Perfection Vibrating Mascara.

Rules:

One entry per person

Add me under "Follow Moi" & let me know what your favourite mascara is in the comments section, that's it! (If for some reason you don't have that follow me feature you can just leave a comment)

Contest ends July 2nd!

I'll be personally mailing the mascara myself from the generous batch I received so this giveaway is open to all international readers of my blog:)

Goodluck!

More info: if you'd like to save $ click livethepulse for a $5 off savings for Maybelline Pulse Perfection.

(image:pulseperfection.ca)

home skincare 101 {Dermalogica}

Yesterday I attended my first ever event for bloggers which was held at The International Dermal Institute (Dermalogica). I guess you can say my cherry was popped and I even left with a goody bag full of skincare items, now that's a date. Having used Dermalogica products in the past I was thrilled to have been invited. Psst! You must try the Special Cleansing Gel cleanser, Daily Microfoliant and on my shopping list the Precleanse. Reviews to follow in the next few weeks! It was an educational and hands-on workshop that involved us removing all our makeup (yikes...it wasn't so bad) and learning about using skincare products properly. Overall, a wonderful night and I finally met a few bloggers in person. Check out their lovely blogs here:

beautygeek

IHeartBeauty

finalfashion

TorontoStyles

CasieStewart

Lastly, the Dermalogica goody bag pic...

(a big thank you to Dermalogica & the Marquis Group)

under the Sea {Lise Watier Sea Belle review}

Under the sea! I love the shades of blue from Lise Watier's Sea Belle makeup collection. I tend to shy away from alot of colour on my eyes because I'm afraid I can't pull it off. But these blues were irresistible and easy to work with. I used all the shades from the Sea Blue Quartuor in Lagoon harmony, Eye Shine in Bleu Lagoon as the base, and Metal Liner in Deep Ocean as liner on the upper lid. Voila! The finished product... reminds me of the makeup look from Gucci's Spring'09 show.

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Overall Lise Watier offers great quality makeup products that are very popular here in Canada. A worthy stop if you can find Lise Watier in your area, check link below for locations.

Prices range from $16-$35 CDN (for the above products) & are available at these locations.

(credit & a big thank you: lisewatier.com)

using primer on your canvas {CoverFx BritePrep Primer review}

Just like a canvas needs primer so does your face, atleast on those special occasions. In the past I had never tried face primers but when the opportunity arose to try out CoverFx's BritePrep FX I couldn't pass. Using a primer on your face makes sense, foundation goes on smoother & lasts longer. Also, BritePrep FX has many other excellent additives such as SPF 50 and vitamins.

"The latest in skin brightening technology, this complex has the ability to lighten dark spots, minimize brown spots and reduce the degree of tanning after UV exposure. Briteprep FX also includes Cover FX’s exclusive peptide complex and Vitamins F.A.C.E. reduce fine lines and wrinkles, boost collagen production and protects with anti-oxidants. With continued use, skin has less variance in pigmentation, appears more radiant and has fewer fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother, more youthful look. " (CoverFX BritePrepFX press release)

I use BritePrep FX on those days that I wear a bit more make-up than normal,
such as functions or long work days. I find that my skin looks glowy without the oily effect & t-zone doesn't get shiny. Skin looks radiant and best of all it has sun protection therefore no need for extra sunscreen, which means less products on the skin. BritePrep FX is also paraban-free, fragrance-free & great for those with sensitive skin.

BritePrep FX is available at Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix, Jean Coutu, The Bay, Sephora, Sephora.com and select Nordstrom stores $45 for each 30 ml tube (image courtesy of coverfx.com)

have a Happy Father's Day!

Have a great day with your Dad today or that significant man in your life! Its a gorgeous day here in Toronto (finally!) and I just got back from taking my Dad out for breakfast. I'm off to my friend's wedding and sure to be dancing the night away.

(image: photobucket.com)

are you missing something? {I Miss You Vintage Sale}

For those that love vintage wear I Miss You Vintage is having a sidewalk sale, sorry only for those in the Toronto area. You don't want to miss this as this store has some really great items. Here's the info I received via email:

EDIT: Its been cancelled due to expected rain for the weekend!! However, the store itself is opened but no SIDEWALK SALE.

Please visit us this Saturday for our first Summer sidewalk sale!
We will be setting up a table in front of the store loaded with vintage purses, belts, and shoes. Our theme this week will be the 1980's. And everything is $3 to $15. WOW. Cheap.

We have selected some fun pieces from our overstock and items that might not be as shiny perfect as those that make it into the store.....BUT those of you who have shopped with us at the various vintage clothing shows that we do, know that there are some fabulous bargains to be found.

Everything is priced for quick sale. Cash and carry only. No debit or credit for sidewalk sale items.

Where: In front of our store - 63 Ossington Avenue (north of Queen St) Toronto
When: 1pm - 5 pm only, Saturday June 20

In addition, the store is open 11am to 8pm this Saturday with a large selection of fantastic vintage clothing, accessories, and jewelry. Come in and see the new spring/summer dresses we've put out this week.

(images: IMissYouVintage photos via their facebook.com page)

re-work it girl! {bridesmaid dresses}

Ladies, do you have old bridesmaid dresses hanging in your closet? You know those awful dresses taking up space in a rainbow of colours. The ones that cost a pretty penny and have never been worn again. Basically because lilacs, baby blue, mint green, peach, and soft pink are not actual shades that look good on everyone. Well pick out that one dress that can be re-worked and wear it to your next event. A few of those dresses can actually be fabulous. With the right adjustments, alterations, and/or accessories you no longer have to look at those eye-sores taking up space. I'm fortunate enough that I only have four bridesmaid dresses hanging in the back of the closet but for those like Katherine Heigl's character in 27 Dresses, who devoted a whole closet to her bridesmaid dresses its time to do something about it. Thankfully in my case a couple of these dresses are worthy of wear time again and being that I'm trying to recycle what I own here's my interpretation of a re-worked bridesmaid dress.


bridesmaid dress reworked by beautyparler featuring Bvlgari jewelry

The key here is to keep the attention away from the dress (if its really ugly) and draw attention to other areas. As I mentioned, fortunate for me two of the four dresses are wearable and similar to the one in the pic. I could've added a belt to dress it down but instead I opted to wear modern killer* heels, a big cocktail ring, a big clutch (no need to match the clutch to the shoes, its not the 90's anymore), and simple earrings. Lastly, since I have an upcoming wedding to attend this look is for that event. Therefore, I wanted a smokey eye paired with a nude lip.

Share any bridesmaid stories you might have in my comments section!

*killer as in f-ing fabulous

What's vibrating in your makeup bag? {Maybelline Sale}

Be the first to purchase Maybelline New York's Pulse Perfecting Mascara, click here! Maybelline NY's Pulse Perfecting Mascara will be launched June 23rd however by clicking on the above link you can purchase it before it hits stores. My review of Maybelline's new mascara will be posted soon so come back to my site & look for it.
Has anyone actually used vibrating mascaras? There are a few on the market, just wanted to know everyone's thoughts. I for one LOVE mascara & its one of the few beauty items I don't leave home without applying. At the moment I have countless mascaras in rotation, although I have my faves I always love to try new ones. I guess that's why I'm a beauty addict:)

For mascara reviews I've posted click the below links:
Mascara on Trial

Get Glam Lashes...

Mascara on Trial (part2)

Also for more mascara posts just type "mascara" in the search box on my blog.

(credits: pulseperfection.ca , matchstick.ca)

Summer lips with a Punch {makeup review}

Red lips for the Summer? Most women tend to wear red lips in the Fall and Winter seasons however it is a wearable shade for the Summer. Not only is red wearable but pair it with a light swipe of bronzer on the cheeks and your ready to go, plus the red adds a punch of color. You'll also be the most glamourous belle, think Mad Men (ok enough about that show).

THE LOOK:

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The perfect Summer red lip with Lise Watier's Rouge Sublime lipstick in shade Rouge Star. This lipstick is an orangey-red shade that's super creamy (see pic-the above is a snapshot of the shade in the tube). Glides on smooth and moisturizes the lips. Retails $18 CDN

Pair these lips with Lise Watier's Havana Bronzing Powder and you'll be as caliente as a Cuban latina. The Havana Bronzing powder is light enough that you won't look muddy, adds the perfect amount of shimmer and sunkissed shade. Retails $26 CDN

(credits: lisewatier.com, Greg Kessler for style.com-Michael Kors Spring'09 RTW)

Burberry's New Girl {Fall'09 campaign}

At 19 years old Emma Watson sure has alot on her plate. Watson is all grown-up (almost), with the success of the Harry Potter movies, which I will admit have never seen, Watson has been able to keep out of the paps lenses and has avoided any big drama (no panty-less shots yet). She has now signed on as the new girl for Burberry's Fall campaign, "Having known and admired the lovely Emma Watson for quite some time, she was the obvious choice for this campaign who like the images she fronts, has a classic beauty a great character and a modern edge," Burberry's creative director, Christopher Bailey, said in a press release for the advertising campaign."(nydailynews.com) And who photographed Burberry's Fall campaign? No other than the fabulous Mario Testino.

I'm loving that trench! The fit, the pleating on the shoulders, the collar, its a must have for Fall & this might be one of my biggest fashion splurges yet. A Burberry trench is a classic and in my opinion a good investment piece, I better start saving.

(credits: nydailynews.com, flickr.com)

Uma as the new face of Givenchy

Actress Uma Thurman is the new face of Parfums Givenchy, the new perfume will be released in September'09. The name of the new perfume is still underwraps and Givenchy is being hush hush about any of the details. Modelling is nothing new to Uma who used to model as a teen. Lookout for Givenchy's new perfume on this side of the pond in early 2010, with an earlier release date of Fall'09 in Europe.

(credit: wwd.com)

mad about Mad Men

No beauty and fashion blog is complete without having blogged about Mad Men. I'm in love with that show! The makeup, fashion, set design, props and Don Draper. My recent new love with this show only developed within the last month. I hardly ever watch television and when I do it usually consists of TLC, HGTV and sometimes the Slice network. But I stumbled upon Mad Men and started watching it because it was set in the 1960's and since I adore the fashion & makeup from that time period my love affair began...Well here are a few pics and a clip about the fashion & makeup.

I was hoping to find a breakdown of the makeup and have given up after searching the net for more than an hour. I'm pretty sure that the makeup is either custom blend or has been specifically developed for the show, if anyone has any info please feel free to pass it along in the comments section. Merci! Thank you!

(photo & video credits: amctv.com)

Who made the list? {Forbes Top Earning Models}

A little over a month ago Forbes released The World's 15 Top-Earning Models. Who made the list?

1-Gisele Bundchen $35 million

2-Heidi Klum $14 million

3-Kate Moss $7.5 million

4-Adriana Lima $7 million

5-Doutzen Kroes $6 million

6-Karolina Kurkova $5 million

7-Natalia Vodianova $4.8 million

8-Carolyn Murphy $4.5 million

9-Daria Werbowy $3.8 million

10-Miranda Kerr $3.5 million

11-Isabeli Fontana $3 million

{tie}

11-Gemma Ward $3 million

12-Selita Ebanks $2.7 million

13-Valentina Zelyaeva $2.3 million

14- Hilary Rhoda $2 million

15-Liya Kebede $1.5 million

I would be as excited as Gisele Bundchen is in that pic if I made that much moola! I guess I'll just settle for my little mediocre salary:)

(credit: forbes.com, style.com for the pic)

Get Moisturized with LUSH {reviews}

Who wants dry, scaly skin in the Summer? Not me. Especially flaky skin on the legs & heels of your feet. Summer is the season that we can finally show some skin and because I live in the "Great White North", that means two full months of warm, sunny weather. Therefore, you can bet that these legs and arms are out in full swing. Thankfully, LUSH offers some really great moisturizers:

Sympathy for the Skin-this vanilla/almond custard scented lotion is a real treat for the skin. Don't let this light lotion fool you because its very moisturizing. Thick lotions are not always the most moisturizing & this one proves that. Ingredients such as vanilla, sweet almond oil, cocoa, and banana (to name a few) are found in this lovely moisturizer. Best to use once out of the shower & let it sink in. Your skin will love you for it!

Retails $23.95 CDN 240g

Vanilla Delite-this is the latest addition to their moisturizer family. This lovely cream moisturizer comes in a bottle instead of a tub, why? Because this "delite" moisturizer is exactly that, "lite" as in light. LUSH creams that come in the black pots are thicker & the ones in bottles are lighter creams. Although its a lighter consistency than other LUSH creams its packed with moisturizing ingredients; such as coconut, Hawaiian tamanu & monoi oils. The best part is the vanilla bean/coconut scent, pure heaven!

Retails $24.95 CDN 250g

Dream Cream-one of LUSH's top sellers, this is the thickest of the above two moisturizers. This is an excellent product for those really dry areas such as elbows, knees, heels, OK basically anywhere. The scent is a mix of herbal, oatmeal, rose water. For those that are familiar with LUSH, this scent reminds me of the Angels on Bare Skin Cleanser. I love putting this on before I go to bed, I wake up with soft, hydrated skin.

Retails $24.95 CDN 240g

For more info on LUSH check out their website, you won't be disappointed! And YES you can smell this store from a mile away but that's because of the combo of all their products under one roof. I find that their products are lightly scented once applied & do fade a bit, so step into LUSH & discover a few of my faves.

(credit: lush.ca)