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Prom Prep On FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

After a little break last week, I’m back on Great Day Green Country this morning and it is all about prom season. I attended prom twice and loved the pomp and circumstance of prepping as much as the actual event. My fashion was always just a little bit edgy, but like these days, makeup was neutral and easy. My picks for favorite prom prep reflects that same aesthetic.

I’ve filed bliss fatgirlslim arm candy under “Why didn’t I think of that?”. I’ve been using this caffeine powered gel to tighten and firm my arms in anticipation of this evenings fundraising event (I am finally getting to wear my new favorite dress). Much like the Bliss Fatgirl Six Pack, the applicator massages. Aside from the tightening effect, you’ll find your skin is less red and soother – huge when you suffer from keratosis polaris like I do.

Talk about something perfect to throw in your clutch. The FLOWER Eye to Eye Double Take Eye Marker & Crème Eyeshadow has one end with an inky marker, perfect for lining eyes. The marker shades are specifically paired to the accompanying shadow on the other end but all are fairly close to black. The cream shadow has excellent staying power and blends well. Poolside Kiss offers a fun twist on a green but I am equally smitten by Lovely Lilac and Steel a Kiss. Available at Walmart.

Another FLOWER Beauty favorite is the Glisten Up! Highlighter Chubby – perfectly suited for a teenager, this sheer illuminating stick can be used on cheeks and eyes. The sheen gives the perfect natural glow. At under $10, you’ll want all three shades: Pearl Shimmer, Gold Coaster, Honey Bronze. Also available at Walmart.

I might be the last person on earth to have not tried Proactiv. Not only am I ashamed as a beauty blogger, but the founding physicians come from my alma mater, Stanford University. I have heard over and over again how the entire line of treatments have been a godsend to those who suffer from acne. My skin lately has been acting like an angst-y teenager, so I was thrilled to have Proactiv+ Emergency Blemish Relief land on my desk. The formula contains prescription-quality benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria but also soothe and calm skin. Even my sensitive skin doesn’t get angry or red using this on those pesky pimples.

Another “Why didn’t I think of that?” is PRIME TIME SMILE Smile Fresh Pen in Sparkling Mint – I’m not sure I will ever not have this in my purse. It does double duty: removing surface stains and also freshening breath in a handy twist up pen. Just apply to the suface of teeth and enjoy minty breath. Available at Walmart.

Last but not least: Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray. Like my friend Amber says, “why didn’t this exist when I went to Prom?”. This spray locks in makeup, ensuring it will last through hours on the dance floor (or tears over a terrible date). Formulated with SKINDINÄVIA, it actually lowers the temperature of makeup keeping it in place. Not to mention keeping shades vibrant. Suitable for all skin types and expect a full 16 hours of fool-proof makeup with a soft focus finish. Available at Sephora.

AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.

NEW NARS 413 BLKR Collection Blush and Illuminator

I have a soft spot for NARS’ 413 BLKR collection. Inspired by their flagship store in New York, the collection is filled with rich and sophisticated shades. Wearing them is like a little virtual visit to the big city. On my first visit to New York as a blogger, I vividly remember making my pilgrimage to the then new 413 Bleeker store. You guys know I am a huge NARS fan and my heart sung when I stepped into this oasis. Needless to say, there was quite the shopping spree… then and every time I have visited since.

Just in time for summer, NARS has added two new products to the collection. I’ve been test driving the 413 BLKR Blush and Illuminator the last couple weeks. I can confirm they are awesome. But beyond that, I think the Illuminator is a nimble, multitasking must-have.

First a little about the blush: Rosebud is a serious pop of pink. But while intense, it still manages to look natural. I usually go for a more neutral blush, but I love having this option for statement look or as my skin gets a little darker in the summer. Right now, on me, it looks like I just took a brisk walk or chased after a New York taxi. A fan favorite, the blush formula is micronized and blendable.

The Illuminator is sheer and balanced – not too warm and not too cool. At first, I was using as a highlighter – on my cheekbones and brow bone. Then I read the NARS artist tip to mix with moisturizer or foundation. I am hooked. The Illuminator gives my skin a luminous shimmer without looking sweaty or greasy. Also try wearing it under a tinted moisturizer – you will look literally radiant!

Available exclusively at NARS boutiques and on narscosmetics.com.

AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.

Yves Saint Laurent Kiss & Blush

YSL has upped their beauty game the last couple years. Always known as a luxury cosmetics line, their product launches in recent seasons have basically become iconic products (like this gem). Kiss and Blush is no different – a nimble product that does it all. By “does it all”, I mean the perfect lip and cheek duo to throw into your clutch. I’ve been wearing Fuchsia Desinvolte (01) for a flirtatious and springy pop of color.

The feel of the formula is lightweight. I’m able to blend out the shade on my cheeks with a smooth and even coverage. The mousse-like finish is matte and buildable. The doe-foot applicator has a unique roller ball center allowing for the perfect deposit of product.

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Bronzers on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

Can you believe we are already halfway through April? This year is flying by. Before you know it, pool season will be here and its accompanying sun-kissed look. But instead of achieving the look with damaging sun rays, fake a glow with the crop of new bronzers that are better than ever. This morning, I am on Great Day Green Country chatting about the best products and how to use them. I’ll post my segment tomorrow, but for now… here is a summary of what I’ll be chatting about.

This season’s formulas are better performing than ever with lasting power and a natural look. The first rule of thumb is use creams on top of creams and powders on top of powders. If you prefer a liquid tinted moisturizer of foundation, try a cream formula like the new NARS Matte Multiple in Vientiane for darker skin tones or Altai for a softer and rosier glow. CoverGirl truMagic bronzer is a killer cream formula at drugstore prices. Also from the drugstore aisles, Revlon Photoready Skinlights in Peach offers a more subtle and luminous glow.

If you prefer powder foundation, reach for MAC Bronzing Powder in Matte Bronze. Not totally matte, there is just a hint of luminous glow with a depth of color that still looks natural. Those with darker skin tones will love bareMinerals READY Bronzer in The High Dive.

There are two techniques to applying bronzer. The first, well known as the “3” method is to sweep color in the shape of a three around the temples, below cheekbones and below the jaw. Reverse the three shape for the other side. This approach lends to a contoured look. Alternatively, apply bronzer to where sun would naturally hit the skin: cheekbones, bridge of the nose and forehead. The outcome is a “just finished a day at the pool” look with a healthy and youthful glow.

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AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.

Three Perfecting Primers

It wasn’t but just a short couple of years ago that I dismissed primers as an extra unnecessary step. So often they felt like spackle or were full of hard-to-work-with silicon. But today’s primers are a totally different story. Not only do they perfect skin as a canvas for foundation. They can be worn along for ultra-light coverage. Many contain all important sunscreen. And can enhance or alter the look of a tinted moisturizer. My three recent favorites are:

MAKE Face Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

I’ve been super enthusiastic about this amazing brand. Now carried in Barneys, MAKE donates 10% of retail sales to We See Beauty Foundation, which benefits women-run, worker-owned cooperative businesses – a true “look good, feel good” brand. While I love a couple of their primers, this SPF powered version has been the one I reach for most. The formula contains light-diffusing micro-spheres that can perfect fine lines. Squalane adds nourishing moisture while the SPF disappears into the skin with no whitish cast. I’d recommend this for all skin types. Also note that it is cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.

Sunday Riley Effortless Breathable Tinted Primer

A long time favorite, this primer is a star on its own. I use medium along for a “barely there” coverage. But it also is my pick under foundation for when I need fuller coverage for my TV appearances. The thin liquid has the perfect balance of radiance and texture. The oxygen-packed formula plumps skin. And other ingredients work over long term with anti-aging benefits. While all skin types would love this primer, I think it is particularly well-suited for those with oily to normal skin.

Dior Glow Maximizer Light Boosting Primer

There is a reason that women have preferred rose colored light for decades. Red-based light is the most flattering around. Glow Maximizer has a luminous, rose gold base to add a youthful radiance. This also can be worn alone or mixed with foundation for a more luminous look. Plus, it smells amazing – no wonder since it is made in France. This rich formula is perfect for those with drier skin.

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AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.

Three Must-See Favorites

Hey… because it is almost Friday – three superstars I had to share with you. Click on the items in the image for more shopping information.

BeautyADDICTS Face2Face Cream to Powder Foundation

This indie brand isn’t widely available but it should be. While I usually don’t care for cream foundations, this one works to improve skin while it covers flaws. The formula contains vitamins A and E and green tea to heal and protect skin. Special ingredients work to hydrate so the powder finish looks luminious and flawless, not cakey or overly matte. This is my pick to throw in my purse for on-the-go. I recently learned those plastic covers that I previously thought were part of packaging and threw away actually help protect and preserve product. This version has a flip lid attached so no need to keep track of a translucent (elusive) slip of plastic.

Nest Vanilla Orchid & Almond Scented Candle

I can’t really say there is a NEST fragrance I don’t love. But their newest marries my beloved oriental with a rich and sultry gourmand vanilla/almond mix. Patchouli and musk keep it from being overly sweet while Mediterranean almond and white orchid soften the scent into a romantic deliciousness. Orchid and Almond is the perfect fragrance to bridge seasons and usher in warmer months.

Kanebo Sensai Collection Silky Bronze Self Tanning Gel for Face

Before this gem, I had not found a self-tanner for the face that I love. Finally, just in time for spring, this gel from Japan provides both hydration and a bronzy glow. The smoothing gel works beautifully under makeup and other skin care. I’ve been using 1-2 times a week for a subtle glow but plan to up my frequency to every other day so I can skip makeup and bronzer and still look sun-kissed.

AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.