Belle Belle Beauty

Here We Go! Nutrisystem Starts NOW.

The one nice thing about a tube of lipstick is it will always fit…. the color might be wrong, but you aren’t going to have to squeeze into it. And honestly, that is part of the reason I love being a beauty junkie. But those of you that know me, also know I am just as much of a fashion junkie. I can troll the pages of shopbop.com for hours. And I pride myself on looking on trend and polished. But…. at my size (which isn’t huge but definitely not sample), I find some trends/cuts/peices just don’t work. And I can’t have that anymore. I want to embrace everything from high waisted trousers to leather shorts to… well… a bikini. Not to mention be healthy and active.

So here begins my journey on Nutrisystem. I’m excited about having a healthy, doctor-approved framework to re-learn portion size and solidify an eating schedule (did you know I never eat breakfast? – bad girl). And I am not alone! My father and uncle were inspired by my commitment and are actually one week ahead of me. Their feedback has me eager and comforted that the food is delicious and it is an easy program. I’ll be sure to keep you posted on the male point of view throughout the journey.

So, here is the scary part. My goal is to lose 30 pounds. It sounds like a terrifyingly high number. But after consulting with a doctor and reading up on the BMI business, it is where I need to be. Now, the good news! Since I found out I would be part of the Nutrisystem Blogger Program, I have already made some changes to my routine. As of today, I am already down 5 pounds and I haven’t even started! All this with Thanksgiving smack in the middle.

Can’t wait to have you guys on this journey with me. Here We Go!!!!

Want to lose weight and get healthy on Nutrisystem? Join today by calling 1-888-853-4689 or by visiting http://www.nutrisystem.com/nsblog.

Disclosure: As part of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem has provided me with complementary meals in exchange for my honest thoughts on the Nutrisystem plan. The opinions expressed in my posts are strictly my own. No other compensation is being given.

image: fitintothosejeans.tumblr.com/

It’s All About The Brows

I can’t believe there was a time when I didn’t use any brow products. A well-groomed, full brow can frame the face, making you look younger, more awake and polished. Who wouldn’t want that? Here are some of my favorite brow products – if one isn’t in your rotation, pick one up now!

1. Benefit Brow Zings
2. Jouer ‘Brow Fix’ Grooming Gel
3. smashbox Brow Tech To Go
4. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel
5. Josie Maran Magic Brows Argan Brow Marker Plus Argan Brow Powder
6. MAC Brow Set
7. hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil
8. Le Metier de Beaute Brow Bound Eyebrow Pencil

image: modernhepburn.tumblr.com/

Advanced Mineral Makeup

I used to think mineral makeup was chalky and heavy feeling. Now I know better… with one of my all time favorite foundations being bareMinerals READY SPF 20 Foundation. For those wanting a more glowy, liquid option, look no further than Advanced Mineral Makeup.

Advanced Mineral Makeup is a 100% natural mineral makeup line created by Annie Mayo. With its lightweight and high definition properties, the foundation has been a hit on the set of NCIS and Grey’s Anatomy. If it is good enough for them, then I had to try it.

I’ve been using the liquid foundation in Ginger Snap for a couple weeks. What has me most pleased is the way the foundation lets my skin breathe. While the formula is oil free, my dry skin doesn’t feel dehydrated. I’m plagued by redness and the anti-inflammatory properties help calm down angry skin. Not to mention the foundation is free of talc, perfumes, parabens, dyes or preservatives, minimizing irritation.

I’ve been on a bit of a kick applying foundation with my fingers. Make sure to wash your hands. Apply a little on the back of your hand, pick up a little bit at a time with your fingers and work from the nose outward. This “hands-on” approach seems to allow for greater blending and a lighter application. The result is medium coverage with a glowy (but not shiny) finish. I’ve been wearing Chantecaille HD Perfecting Powder over the foundation and getting a full 8 hours of wear.

Note: this foundation is cruelty-free. Please see this post for other cruelty-free options.

You can buy Advanced Mineral Makeup on advancedmineralmakeup.com or click here for locations.

AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE WAS 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.

Kiehl’s Rosa Arctica

Being the customer service superstars that they are, Kiehl’s listened to their clientele and recently released a lighter weight version of my beloved Rosa Arctica. Eighteen months after trying the original version, I am sold on the straight forward, nature-proven collection for (now) any skin type. So… onto the details.

Here is the bad news… As we age, we have:

Decreased Cell Energy: slower cell turnover can lead to oxidative stress and skin aging
Decreased Barrier Function and Integrity: the outer layer of skin weakens as we age, compromising functionality of the skin
Increased Dryness: skin barrier doesn’t function as well when we age

And here is the good news: Rosa Arctica formulas feature the rare “Resurrection Flower” – a regenerating flower that can survive up to 31 months of dehydration and return to life when moisture returns. These “resurrection plants” have a protection system that makes it possible for the plant to survive the drying out process still maintaining its cell structure. This translates on your skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles and adding firmness through a protective and vitality-stimulating effect. In addition to this super plant, Rosa Arctica contains Vitamin E, Glycerin (this isn’t a bad word – it’s great for more supple skin!), Adenosine (helps with lines) and White Birch (retains moisture).

Both versions of Rosa Arctica address all three of the above concerns. The Lightweight version does it without the heaviness. The consistency almost feels like a gel. In addition to those with oilier skin, this new formula is great for those who live in warmer climates or for warmer months. The cream has a slight fragrance – to my nose, it is a pleasant spa-like marine with very little floral. The Rosa Arctica Eye is a balm – love that consistency for the eye area. You warm it with your finger in the pot and gently tap on the orbital bone.

I’ve been using both the Rosa Arctica Eye and Rosa Arctica Lightweight Cream day and night for a couple of weeks. My skin seems plumper and more even. Even with my dry skin, I find plenty of hydration with the lighter formula. Kudos, Kiehl’s!

Lipstick Queen Dancing Queen Set

I’m feeling pretty festive this year – my tree is trimmed and decorations abound in my home. The resounding theme is that magical, fluttering shimmer that screams holiday. Legendary lipstick maven, Poppy King feels the same way. “This season I was so inspired by the magical glamour and exuberance of the dance floor! When I think dance floor, I think Studio 54” says Poppy. I’m not much of a dancer, but I like the way she thinks.

The Dancing Queen Set is perfect for the holiday season with her exclusive ‘sheer matte shimmer’ formula. The texture and look is balanced and translucent, reflecting one of fashion’s biggest trends: iridescence. The formula is hydrating and comfortable to wear. And no need for precision – I apply these just like a balm.

Set includes:

CHA CHA shimmering, sheer wine
ELECTRIC SLIDE shimmering, deep rose
THE HUSTLE shimmering nude

Lipstick Queen Dancing Queen Set Swatches on Belle Belle Beauty

While they are all sheer, there is something perfectly nude and understated festive about The Hustle. Cha Cha and Electric Slide just give a wash of color. I’d say this would make a great gift, but you’ll want this for yourself to wear to all your holiday festivities.

Benefit Holiday

Benefit Cosmetics has cheerfully packaged some of their classic products into the cutest holiday gift sets. Check out this slide show for my favorites and more details.

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