NARS Fall 2012: Let’s Get Sparkly

You don’t really expect to see loads of shimmer this time of year. Maybe that is why I love it so in NARS recent Fall collection. And maybe the fact that we haven’t been under 100 degrees here in weeks. So an eyeshadow that evokes “icy wind” and a glittery versatile stick? Bring it. I just can’t wait for fall.

I must admit, when I got my paws on the newest Multiple, I slathered it on my eyes, face and lips. NARS Multiple Stick in Undress Me does have some substantial glitter and essentially nude base. But it WORKS. The powder finish makes it long lasting. It is slightly noticeable and flirty without being overdone. Other Multiple favorites include G-Spot (if you want more rosy gold) and Cococabana (click on the links for previous reviews). I love these for highlighters and cheek color.

Now, for the “icy wind” aka NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Vent Glace. I think the smokey eye might be a bit overplayed. This summer, the combination of platinum and silver smoke with defined liquid liner just hits the right note. It is most certainly frosted, but makes you look a little bit more awake. If you don’t wish to go full-bore frosty, this duo makes a great highlighter for the inner corners of the eyes or along the brow bone. And if you want a full on metallic lid, layer this on with Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base.

Summer Hair Gems

1. Serge Normant MetaSilk Shampoo and MetaVelour Conditioner make up my new special occasion routine. This duo makes my hair unbelievably soft, bouncy and shining. Somehow they manage to nourish my hair, but still make it feel clean. Cedar bark from Morocco works to clarify the scalp and hair. Natural botanical oils, rice and essential fatty acids in the conditioner make hair silky.

2. Shu Uemura Essential Drops Purifying Blend: I am really into scalp health lately. I have been using the Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil Shampoo and my hair is performing better and looking healthier. With the addition of the Essential Drops, flakiness and itching is basically eradicated. I am hooked especially since I learned a healthy scalp can make your hair look better, longer, with anti-aging effects.

3. blowPro ‘faux dry™’ dry shampoo: Hands down, my favorite dry shampoo this summer is from blowPro. The formula contains a micronized corn starch that volumizes without getting sticky or weighing hair down. It isn’t a spray bottle, but rather you squeeze to release the formula, giving more control over the application.

4. Bumble and bumble Styling Creme: This formula is somewhere between a mousse and gel that works great on wet hair. My blow outs tend to last just a little longer, waves tend to hold up a little longer, when I use this stuff before blow drying. Just use a little bit and it will never become stiff or sticky.

5. Oscar Blandi Jasmine Oil Serum: The ends of my hair have become a little dry this summer. And they drink up this hair serum like crazy. Not to mention this stuff smells amazingly good. I love it before bedtime. And it doesn’t make my hair greasy in the least bit.

6. Goody Doublewear Elastic: These make a great addition to any arm party, and make a polished looking pony. I also love the headband version that turns into a necklace.

Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Mighty Shiny Lip Gel

Nothing gets me quite as giddy as a newfound favorite lip gloss. Youngblood Cosmetics is a brand that is recently on my radar as a cruelty-free company committed to environmentally friendly packaging. And I am seriously impressed with their recently launched Lip Gel.

These juicy and non-sticky lip gels come in a squishy (sorry… but it is the best word!) tube. The formula is long-lasting and shiny while moisturizing and natural looking. Jojoba Seed Oil, Meadowfoam Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil soften and condition dry lips. Momordica Grosvenorii Fruit Extract workds to fight free radicals with an anti-aging effect.

The angled tip is small enough for precise application of both the translucent and vibrant colors. I am loving Stripped (clear with iridescent shimmer) for a neutral summer look. Unveiled, my other favorite, is a sheer and cheerful pink.

You can find Youngblood cosmetics at Fred Segal in Santa Monica, Henry Bendel in New York or select spas. Check the locator here. Pauline Youngblood, founder of Youngblood Cosmetics, built her brand on exceptional mineral cosmetics. She developed the line after seeing a need while performing as a paramedical aesthetician to dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

RevitaLash ‘Spotlight’ Highlighting Pencil and ‘Raven 12 Hour’ Eyeliner

RevitaLash is a line that was on my radar, but only as a treatment for fuller lashes. So imagine my surprise when I found out they make my newest, favorite highlighter. This genius “pencil”, which is really more like a crayon, is perfect to swipe and blend. You can use it below your brows, on your cheeks or even right on the cupid’s bow of your lips. I’ve found the ‘Spotlight’ Highlighting Pencil is surprising versatile across all skin tones, but it does have a slight pinkish undertone. The shade corrects dark pigmentation. But has a balanced shimmer keeping it sophisticated and subtle.

RevitaLash also makes a great eyeliner: ‘Raven 12 Hour’ Eyeliner. I’m impressed with its staying power. The consistency is creamy, but at the same time precise. Both of these products are available at Nordstrom and are the perfect treat to pick up during their annual Anniversary sale that begins tomorrow!

Shiseido Suncare and Gift With Purchase

Having access to a pool this summer, my hunt for the perfect sunscreen has become serious business. This weekend, I gave Shiseido suncare a whirl and was seriously impressed. I was using both the Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 (for my face) and the Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60 (for body). The distinction I found with these gems is that they are both long-lasting, blendable and not greasy. They persisted through many dips in the pool. And while I reapplied every 60 minutes or so, I was protected.

Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 is ultra-light weight and actually mattifies the skin. It contains mineral powders and herbs to prevent over-production of sebum. And while I don’t have oily skin, I appreciated the finish of this sunscreen. It wasn’t glossy or overly dewy. Did I mention my pool is kind of a social scene? I’ve found this sunscreen also works well under makeup.

Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60 has that high-factor protection I am looking for. It is also “very water resistant” which eases my mind – constantly fretting about the water and sweat washing away my SPF. Remember to liberally reapply, but this stuff did a great job with my near contant pool activity. Both of these come in fairly tiny vessels, but I am sold on their efficacy and fashionable packaging – so I think they are worth every penny.

Plus… Shiseido is offering a suncare special offer, now available online at www.Shiseido.com and at select retailers nationwide, including Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, Dillard’s, Lord & Taylor, and more. Purchase any two sun products and receive a custom Shiseido sun tote with a free 75 ml Ultimate Cleansing Oil. The tote is adorable – metallic canvas with long straps and a subtle Shiseido logo. And the cleansing oil has quickly become a favorite for removing persistant sunscreen and even longwear foundation and eye makeup. No better excuse to upgrade your suncare.

Sisley-Paris Sisleya Firming Body Care

Sisley-Paris has recently added to their exceptional skin care line to include body care. Perfect timing – summer times makes most of us (I think) more aware of aging and flaws below the neckline. The formula uses 19 plant-based active ingredients to combat slackening, cellulite, fine lines and dehydration. The effect is a cool tightening but not uncomfortable. The finish is silky but not matte and definitely hydrated. And while Sisley-Paris Sisleya Firming Body Care is a treatment, it certainly works as a moisturizer as well. I’m keeping it by my bed to use every night on my décolleté, stomach and upper legs. But I also like it right before a night out.

I feel I should delve into some of the technology behind this concentrate. It is a serious powerhouse product with scientific goods to back it up.

Skin slackening is caused by action on three major players of firmness: Elastin, Collagen and Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Dill seed extract boots elastin function. Extracts of Alkekengi Calyx and Soya boost the production of collagen fibers. Extract of Padina pavonica stimulates the synthesis of Glycosaminoglycans. These actions help long-term appearance of the skin.

The formula’s major active ingredient is extract of Spirulina, a blue microalgae rich in trace elements and minerals – calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc – vitamins and amino acids, which helps revitalize skin. Caffeine helps slenderize. And Vegetable Glycerine, Plum and Andiroba Oils along with Shea Butter help in hydration.

Oat extract forms the natural feeling elastic mesh on the skin’s surface, hence the instant smoothing and contouring action. Rhattany also helps tighten with astringent properties.

The scent is subtle and clean. Essential oils of Lavender and Marjoram provide calming and balancing properties, although I can’t strongly detect either. I enjoy that the overall effect won’t interfere with any fragrance, and still works great before bed. If you’re like me, I’m not up for any strong scents right before sleep.

Overall, this product really impresses me with efficacy and quality ingredients. While it is an investment, I think you can expect to see results and it is a pleasure to use. Not to mention, the packaging is beautiful.