Archive for the ‘hair&beauty’ Category

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New L.A. Spa to Check Out

Friday, May 28th, 2010

I’m always on the lookout for new spas to recommend and I found one this weekend! It’s called Carasoin and it’s owned by the two most charming imports I’ve met in a long time! The couple, Lena and Tom  (from Switzerland and the UK, respectively) relocated to L.A. from London and brought an eye for detail that I love. Upon entering the space on Robertson Blvd., behind the Newsroom Café and across from the Ivy, I immediately loved the design. It felt one part French and feminine, one part sophisticated and one part serene. And that’s even before I stepped foot in the treatment room. Tom and Lena meticulously chose beds that gently contour to a woman’s body; beautifully luscious linens; and products from Elemis, including blends to add to your massage oil that can target stretch marks or help detoxify.  After spending the weekend moving, I was VERY excited to have a signature massage. The massage therapist informed me that I would feel sound reverberations in the bed from the music (which she could turn off or up if I preferred). She started by dry brushing my body (which helps circulation) and then proceeded with the utterly divine and relaxing massage. They really have managed to create an urban oasis with this spa, the only one of its kind on the busy stretch of boutiques that line Robertson.  Stop in while you can still nab an appointment.

Carasoin

120 N. Robertson Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90048

310-855-0105

Carasoin.com

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Help Times Square Break in the Brand Spankin’ New MAC Store

Thursday, May 27th, 2010


Party in Times Square! Wanna play a part in decorating the brand new Times Square MAC store? You can, starting today, May 27th,  until Saturday May 29th, from Noon to Midnite, when you’re  invited to break in the new store by actually decorating it! Using a pencil or pot of gloss you can write a message, draw and color on a larger-than-life coloring book backdrop. For even more eye candy, models will be outfitted as living dolls in couture paper designs by New York fashion icon Zaldy.  The models will be showcasing the freshest makeup looks, which will be demonstrated for customers by MAC makeup artists throughout the event. International DJs, including DJs Flo, Jesse Felluss, JVC, Lexey and Vida Ventura will be spinning tunes as you draw and mingle.

Go! Draw! Be Fabulous!

See ya there:

WHERE: M•A•C Times Square
1540 Broadway at 46th Street
NYC

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Should You Go Under the Knife?

Friday, May 21st, 2010

by Lorelei Marfil

Looking for your next interesting read? Dr. Robert M. Tornambe, M.D. wrote The Beauty Quotient Formula when he realized he turned away nearly 20% of patients eager to receive cosmetic surgery.  As a conservative surgeon, his main reason for his refusal to operate was simply the patient’s lack of realistic expectations, or because they wanted surgery for all the wrong reasons. “A very common scenario would be a young lady requesting breast augmentation because her boyfriend likes big breasts and was going to pay for the operation, or the woman requesting a facelift because she found out that her husband was cheating on him with a younger woman,” said Dr. Tornambe. “After many years in this business, I realized that no matter how good my surgical technique or magnificent result would be, these people will never be happy because plastic surgery is NOT always the answer.  It always irked me that I could not offer them an alternative, and I was certain that they would easily find someone else to do their surgery, integrity notwithstanding.”

Tornambe believes that young women considering plastic surgery should stop, think, be cautious, and consider all options. Many television shows trivialize cosmetic surgery. Surgery is serious business and is not always the answer to your problems. Before considering surgery, Tornambe prefers that you ask yourself this question: “Is there another way to reach my goal without a scalpel?” My advice to patients who come to me for liposuction is the following: “Work out and diet as hard as you can first, and if that doesn’t work come back and we can talk about surgery,” says Tornambe.  “I emphasize this important fact to my patients who come to me for breast augmentation.  “You are signing up for at least two operations, the first one, which is obvious and at least one more, as breast implants are not permanent and require replacement every 10 years at best!” (more…)

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Spray Tan Transformation at SunStyle LA

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010

SunStyle LA

Before today I was a spray tanning virgin so when Blush was invited to an event at Sun Style LA salon in West Hollywood, I decided to give it a try.

I’ll admit that I was a little nervous about this whole spray tanning thing as I was afraid of looking like an Oompa-Loompa. I also didn’t want to look like a completely different person and when you are as fair as I am, it’s a distinct possibility. Luckily while I was waiting my nerves were soothed with mimosas and a manicure, compliments of Recess.

Then it was time for the spray. I’ll admit that I was closely monitoring those that went before me and watched fellow fair-skinned ladies turn into bronzed beauties. My personal tanner, Alex, was amazing to work with and really catered to me by giving me clear direction and was also so excited that it was my first time.  At first I had qualms about going completely bare and having someone getting so up close and personal but after a few minutes I relaxed as we laughed and chatted.

The spray that they use at SunStyle is called Infinity Sun and is a multi-treatment system that is all natural and chemical free. Translation: you know how you can smell when your friends tan or put on sunless tanner? Infinity Sun has no scent (and trust me, I keep sniffing myself) thanks to the absence of all those nasty chemicals. Even better, it also normalizes the Ph balance of the skin and nourishes it with essential vitamins and nutrients. Infinity Sun also has acelebrity following as founder Veronique Munro sprays Jessica Alba, Mandy Moore and the ladies from the “Girls Next Door.”

My Before and After

Though I’m still getting used to seeing myself this tan, it certainly ups your confidence level as I find myself struttingrather than walking just to show off my tan legs. Another benefit? The tan does have slimming effects and hides imperfections so you can be bikini ready in no time. Just don’t forget to lather on the sunscreen because although you look tan, you still will burn!

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Celeb Stylist Ric Pipino’s In Person Appearances and Free (with Purchase) Cuts

Wednesday, May 12th, 2010

Here at Blush, we love telling you about the best beauty deals, so when we found out that celebrity stylist Ric Pipino was going to be touring  California to promote his new Revolution in Cut hair care line, we just had to share. With a client list that includes Ali Larter, Jaime Pressly and Naomi Watts, his haircuts usually cost upwards of $300. But this week, he is stopping at four Beauty 360 locations in California and personally offering his services.

You know that song “Wash that Man Right Out Of  My Hair?” well with Ric it’s the opposite– you definitely want this gorgeous man personally washing his products straight into your hair. By purchasing $60 or more of his Revolution In Cut Hair products, which we love for the way they make our hair bounce, move, shine, and smell, you will receive a free haircut with personality, shape, and style. Call Beauty 360 today to schedule your appointment at the location closest to you! And for you non- Californians, don’t forget to pick up some Revolution in Cut products!

May 13

1039 El Camino Real

Redwood City, CA 94063

(650) 780-9155

May 14

1720 South Bascom Ave.

Campbell, CA 95008

(408) 371-7852

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Zoe Kravitz is a Princess

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

Zoe Kravitz, daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonnet, is the new face of Vera Wang Princess fragrance. Here Zoe talks about what it was like to shoot the campaign and a little about her fashion sense.

How does it feel to be picked as the face for the Vera Wang Princess new ad campaign?

I am honored to be chosen by Vera Wang. Her style is classic and timeless. I think “the princess” concept is a great way to celebrate young empowered femininity.

Why did you decide to do this campaign?

Vera Wang is a legend! How could I turn it down?

What is it about Vera that you love?

She is so driven and created this amazing empire! Her style is consistently modern and portrays easy elegance. Everything she creates is romantic and luxurious and something that all women can relate to.

Tell us about the Vera Wang Princess advertising campaign.

It is an evolution from a classic fairytale princess to a modern day princess…The concept is being your own unique individual and letting your own spirit and confidence be seen.

How was it working with [famed fashion photographer] Bruce Weber?

Fantastic! He is not only an amazing photographer, but an extremely nice person. It’s important to feel comfortable in front of camera, and he helped me do that. (more…)

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My Beauty Must-Haves

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

I get asked all the time what my favorite beauty products are since I’ve tried about a gajillion and four. When it comes to a lot of items, I don’t have something I can’t live without, but there are some that I swear by for many reasons but bottom line, they help me look my best.

Moisturizer: Crème de la Mer

Why: I have dry skin (and combination in the T-Zone) and this moisturizer helps my skin look fresh and hydrated. Many people don’t know that it doubles as an eye cream.


Zit Concealer: Neutrogena SkinClearing Blemish Concealer

Why: This two-in-one covers zits without looking cake-y but also helps them clear up thanks to salicylic acid.

Foundation: Chantecaille Future Skin

Why: I have never worn a foundation that goes on as evenly, looks as natural and covers as well.

Eye Concealer: YSL Touche Eclat

Why: It’s the perfect balance of concealer and brightener for the eye area. I sweep it all over the eye and then blend it in. If you find you’re in between shades, try mixing them together.

Cosmetic Sponge: The Beauty Blender

Why: It’s not just that it helps makeup blend so well; it also comes with a solution for cleaning the little pink sponge so it literally lasts forever.

Blush: Nars Orgasm

Why: This is one of the most universally wearable shades and it works on me whether I’m pale or a little tan.

Eyeshadow: Kevyn Aucoin

Why: I have used the essential palette for YEARS, but it’s not only long-lasting in the package, it stays on the eyes all day without budging or creasing. Plus, every color is wearable, from the pale white, which helps to open the eye up to the black, which is great for a smoky eye.

Eyeliner: mark Eyeliner

Why: This is the best $6 you can spend. It glides on so easily and washes off with any cleanser. I go through it rather quickly, for good reason.

Mascara: Dior DiorShow

Why: If I were allowed one makeup product in life, it would be this. My lashes look amazing when I wear this, it lasts a long time and washes off easily. Skip all the incarnations of this and go with the traditional formula in black.

Hair Styling Product: Bumble & Bumble Thickening Spray

Why: It gives roots a little oomph and volume but isn’t sticky or gunky like mousse can be. Plus, a bottle lasts for ages.

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I Get Inclusive

Monday, April 19th, 2010

The Murad Inclusive Health Clinic

I recently had the pleasure of spending some time with Dr. Howard Murad, the famed doctor behind the Murad skincare line, and his team of brilliant technicians. Did I go in to get my face dealt with? Sorta, but there’s more to a visit to the Murad Inclusive Health Medical Spa. Dr. Murad has a program that’s called “Inclusive health” where he or one of his Inclusive Health Practitioners sits down with you to discuss your emotional health, your cellular health and also your skincare concerns. Dr. Murad believes, and I highly agree, that external beauty stems from internal health. So if your cells aren’t well-hydrated, your skin will reflect that. Or if you’re stressed or unhappy at work, that will also take a toll on external beauty.

After taking a series of tests, you get an MIHI (Murad Inclusive Health Index) – mine was 76, which I was told was the highest of the day! Hurrah! I’m healthy and happy! (I asked if I get my photo on the wall – the doctor laughed, so I guess not.) I also learned that drinking water is not the best way to rehydrate cells – the molecules in drinking water are too big to penetrate cells. What you need to do is get water from food – mostly fruits and vegetables.

After the consultation, patients have the option of starting a 10-week plan to address their concerns, be it weight loss, cellulite reduction, acne relief or aging skin restoration. My specialist, Julietta, had an amazing, warm energy about her. She was very supportive and professional (so if you’re in the L.A.-area, I recommend booking an appointment with her!).  She gave me some supplements to take daily to help my cells build up their walls and rehydrate. (more…)

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Win a Free “Meet Dermalogica Kit”

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

by Sarah

Anyone who knows anything about skin care knows Dermalogica is a seriously A-List line. There’s no smoke and mirrors with their skincare, no fancy slogans or glitzy blingy ad campaigns– they just rely on their simple gray and white packaging and their excellent, trust worthy, time-tested word of mouth. Personally,  I had an AMAZING facial in the Soho store last week, and I’m not kidding when I say everyone in my life has noticed a difference in my skin– and that definitely doesn’t happen every time I get a facial. My face is looking more vibrant and fresh than ever.

So, in a streak of giddy spring spirit, we’ve partnered with the brand to offer five lucky Blush readers a Meet Dermalogica Kit which contains travel sizes of four of Dermalogica’s top sellers including the much-loved Daily Microfoliant. This kit also contains a $20 coupon to be used for a future Dermalogica webshop purchase of $75 or more.

Enter by adding your comment below– Five readers will win. Tell us why you deserve the free kit most of all. We can’t wait for your feedback!


Also, right now, both of Dermalogica‘s flagship locations (Soho and Santa Monica) are currently featuring a brand new limited time only Spring Cleaning Treatment. This 50-minute treatment is available only in April and it’s a jam -packed value for your valuable skin. The treatment right now is only $65 in SoHo, and just $45 in Santa Monica. The 50-minute facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, adult acne treatment and optional mask. (You don’t wanna start spring with tired, dead wintery skin).

OK, so don’t forget to comment to win a Meet Dermalogica Kit, and definitely don’t forget– if you’re in the area, to hit up a flagship store and make yourself gorgeous at a majorly discounted price.

***(Five winners will be chosen at random. Post a comment and tell us why you deserve it! Giveaway starts on 4/07/10 and ends 4/20/10 at 11:59pm PST. If any winners do not reply within 5 business days of being contacted, another winner will be chosen.)

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Look Radiant Instantly

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010

by Annet King

Need to look radiant for something this weekend? No worries. King gives us a few easy steps for glowing, gorgeous skin.

1-Exfoliate for glow. There are many options, including cleansers for mature skin which contain gentle exfoliants. In all cases, “gentle” is the key word. Choose a product which loosens cell debris so that treatment products will penetrate easily. Aggressive exfoliation causes inflammation, so be sure to not overdo it. Try Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant!

2-Use a Mask to deliver nutrients deep into newly exfoliated skin. Choose one which addresses your current skin condition and provides vitamin enriched hydration. Be sure to discuss the options with your skin therapist. Try Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque!

3- Spray skin with a vitamin-rich, free radical-fighting spritzer to get the most benefit out of active ingredients in moisturizers and treatment products, and to penetrate key botanicals to the skin. Try Dermalogica AGE Smart Antioxidant HydraMist!

More of Annet’s Skin Healthy Tips:

- Good nutrition is always key. Start by eliminating sodas, including diet carbonated beverages. A daily pop habit can make skin a bit sluggish.

- Skip fabric softener on laundry day. We find that when used in the dryer with bed linens, these waxy products may aggravate adult acne.

- Wash your face four times a day. That’s right, four – twice each morning, twice before bed. This double-cleanse method ensures dirt is thoroughly removed and skin is clean.

Annet King is the Director of Global Education at the International Dermal Institute

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