Tag: Great Day Green Country

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.

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.

Shop The Post:

Go Go Gadget Beauty on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

After a little break last week, I’m back on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country this AM. This time – being a gadget nerd myself – I am so excited to be talking about all the new tools out there to ensure summer beauty. One reason I love this industry so much is all of the technological innovation, so this subject really gets me excited. Four favorite new gadgets on the market:

Clarisonic Pedi Sonic Foot Transformation

I’ll be honest… my feet are not ready for summer. And I have had my eye on this device for months. As a fan of the original Clarisonic (hope everyone reading this already is on the bandwagon), I knew Clarisonic would do well with a foot version. The handle comes with two heads, a Pedi Smoothing Disc and a Wet/Dry Buffing Brush Head. While you can use this in the shower, I find this works best on dry skin. The exception is the Pedi-Buff, perfect for gentle removal of dead skin. The Pedi Balm is super hydrating. And the Pedi-Boost amps up the process of getting rid of dry skin. Every day, my feet are more and more pool ready.

GO SMiLE Sonic Blue Teeth Whitening System

GO SMiLE has long been my choice to whiten teeth and their latest and greatest is really taking it a step further. The brush has a LED sonic action that can increase whitening efficiency, kill bacteria and reduce plaque. You can use the brush with your regular toothbrush or new GO SMiLE Teeth Whitening Gel. The best part? This replaces your regular brushing so you don’t have that annoying second step. Huge when you are lazy like me in the evenings.

bliss fabulips ‘pout’-o-matic

Has been in my shower for a month or so. At first, I was nervous if the rotation was going to be too rough on delicate lips. But the soft massaging head actually buffs away without irritation. Also helpful is using it with bliss’ fabulips sugar lip scrub which has a huge nourishing effect. Bottom line: my bold lip colors look better and I am more apt to care for my lips during shower time.

illuMask Anti-Acne Light Therapy Mask

One of the best ways to fight acne is to use LED light therapy. Usually used during facials, the blue and red light fights inflammation and kills bacteria. But now available for at home use, this tool uses a combo of wavelengths to clear skin. Just use once daily for thirty days. Yeah, you look kinda silly. But clearer, smoother skin is worth it right? Say goodbye to those breakouts!

Shop the post:

image here

Spring Prep Skin Care On FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

We can now officially say spring has sprung and with that comes the reality that swimsuit/shorts/tank top season is just weeks away. Not only am I hitting the gym a little harder, but I am also changing up my skin care game. With a couple tweaks, we can have clear, radiant skin and sandal-ready feet.

First up, make sure to extend your regular skin care routine to hands, neck and decolletage. This goes for year-round but is even more important as the sun rays intensify. My favorite summertime SPF is Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Moisturizer. It is lightweight and works well from the hairline down the chest. Because it is only SPF 20, make sure to amp up protection if you are spending large amounts of time outside.

Step back on products that are heavy or full of emollients. That rich cream might soothe dry winter skin but isn’t best for warmer months. Perricone MD Chia Serum (covered yesterday here) actually works for light hydration. And it can be used over makeup for that warm, dewy glow.

All those pore clogging sunscreens and sweaty weather don’t only encourage acne on the face. Breakouts on the back and chest can be the worst during pool season. Mario Badescu Special Cleansing Lotion “O” is alcohol-free and soothes sensitive skin. Mild witch hazel formula removes pore clogging debris. Just swipe on post-shower with a cotton ball. The cooling effect is especially pleasant on a hot day.

Not only will exfoliation help with pore-clogging and other breakout causing congestion, but they will also reveal radiant and even skin. For those who look to organic solutions, check out Avalon Organics Exfoliating Enzyme Scrub that uses both fruit enzymes and finely ground walnut shell for a calming exfoliation. New from St. Ives, Even & Bright Pink Lemon & Mandarin Orange Scrub smells like summer and doesn’t cause redness. I use this as a body wash for a deep clean.

Don’t neglect the tootsies. AmLactin Foot Cream is like regular foot cream on steroids. AHAs help smooth and repair callused and dry skin. Just make sure to use sunscreen on the oft-neglected feet because the active ingredients can make them more susceptible to sun damage. The lotion is quickly absorbed but I still like to apply at night and wear socks to get a deep treatment. There is a very slight medicinal scent.

Shop your spring essentials here:

image here (I can’t seem to find the exact source – if you come across it, please let me know)

Beauty From The Inside Out on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

This week on Great Day Green Country, I am talking about something a little different. Here on Belle Belle there is lots of discussion of creams and serums we slather on to keep us looking young. Today, I am discussing some things we can do from the inside out to keep skin radiant, young and clear.

Supplementing our diet with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants is one of the most obvious ways we can improve our skin from the inside out. One of my favorite skin care brands offers supplements specifically targeted to skin. And bonus points that it is backed by one of the most recognizable names in dermatology, Dr. Perricone. Perricone MD Nutriceuticals Skin & Total Body Dietary Supplements is three-tier daily program of nutrients to boost immune system and encourage beautiful skin. While joint and bone function is boosted, antioxidants fights free radicals. Fine lines and wrinkles are replaced with radiant skin. And supplements also offer protection against future damage.

Second up, the always important water. Water is the most basic way we can make our skin radiant and healthy. I notice that when I skip my morning guzzling of water, my skin looks dull and splotchy. But if I keep that bottle at my desk, filled all day long, I get a supple glow. While I try to use a recyclable water bottle, I full admit to splurging on Glaceau Smart Water Electrolyte Enhanced Water. I used to love FIJI but now (if water can really have a flavor) I prefer Smart Water.

I’m on my third month of Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements for Women (you can find my amazing round 1 results from 2012 here). My hair grew 3.5 inches in three months last time and I am seeing the same results this time around. This supplement, adored by models (like Karlie Kloss) and actresses (like Reese Witherspoon), promotes hair growth and nourishes thinning hair. 100% natural ingredients and drug-free, the formula works for men and women, all ages and all ethnicities. Fish proteins, horsetail extract and Vitamin C help ramp up production of keratin (which also boosts nail growth!). My lashes and brows are fuller and longer. My hair seems healthier despite an increase in heat styling lately. And my scalp health is even improved. My body hair did grow a little faster, but the trade off was worth it.

Last but not least, pick up some of the trendy Organic Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil. You won’t regret swaping this kitchen staple and get a second jar to keep in your bathroom. The past week, oil pulling has been all over the internet. This practice of swishing coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes daily is said to improve tooth and gum health. While I haven’t made it longer than three minutes, I can say my gum line does appear soothed and my teeth feel cleaner than usual after a couple nights of trying it. If this practice is just too gross for you (I don’t blame you), don’t worry – there are lots of other ways coconut oil can be used to improve skin health. Replace butter and other oils with coconut in your cooking. Coconut oil’s medium-chain-length fatty acids is an antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial agent which can help with shiny hair and clearer skin. Bonus points that it boosts metabolism. And don’t forget to slather it on as a cuticle cream, moisturizer, eye makeup remover and hair conditioner.

Shop The Post:

Spring Color on FOX23’s Great Day Green Country

It is Friday and you know what that means… I’m back on Great Day Green Country and it is time to ring in spring. After a frigid and icy weekend, we have 60s and 70s for the next four or five days (yes, there is a patio in my near future – likely around happy hour today). And what better way to celebrate the warmer weather than some spring shades. Today, I am rounding up the six products to warm things up on your vanity: