Jo Malone Master Class at Neiman Marcus Tyson's Galleria on March 1st 6-9PM

 

 

The wonderful people at Jo Malone and Neiman Marcus are holding a Jo Malone Master Class at the Neiman Marcus in Tysons Galleria in Northern Virginia

The Jo Malone Master Class will be held in the Neiman Marcus Cafe from 6 to 9 PM on Thursday, March 1, 2012.

Come learn about the London Blooms collection, Fragrance Layering,  and get an exciting Jo Malone Sneak Peek for the Spring Season...even I don't know what it is!

To sign up call David MaCray at the Jo Malone counter at Neiman Marcus at 703-761-1600 to get on the list. 

 

 

Enjoy some fine company, hors d' oeuvres and drinks with me!  There will be goodies and treats and Gifts with purchase!

Will I see you there?

Have you had a chance to sniff the new London Blooms Collection?

All images from http://www.jomalone.com/

Highlighters You Can't Have #2 - Guerlain Cruel Gardenia Meteorites - Review Pictures Swatches

 

Two years ago you were tortured with Taupe Eyeshadows You Couldn't Have.  Last year, Blushes You Can't Have   This year, In 2012, I intend to make you shout "Stop The World! I Wanna Get Off!" because it would put an end to seeing all the Highlighters You Can't Have!  Yes. In have summoned all my powers from The Dark Side and have amassed a collection of 12 highlighters that are Very Hard to Find and/or Discontinued, hence the "You Can't Have" part of the series.  At the end of each month I reveal another highlighter from the past, which will, in turn, validate my cosmetic hoarding dysfunction.  Granted, there will inevitably be some of you that will already own a few of the highlighters I will feature in this series.  To them I say "Good for you!".  To those that don't I say "Muwhahahahahahah!" [insert maniacal laugh here]. As always, your curses and cries of agony over not owning any of the highlighters I feature this year taste like delicious candy!  Last month I started the series with a highlighter that was sitting untouched for 4 years until I swatched it for this series, the Dior Flower Blossom Floral Illuminating Powder.  The feeling of using that highlighter was liberating. I now plan to swatch every highlighter I have been stowing away. It's nice to actually USE the makeup I purchase!

 

 

2012 is a leap year. I'm actually writing this post on February 29th!  Since we only see February 29th every 4 years I figured I might do something a little different with the Highlighters You Can't Have series. I decided to do a Highlighter You "Might Be Able To Have" if you a) pay 5X over retail on evilbay, b) Inherit it from a dead relative or c) already own it.  Basically I'm saying...I'm not doing anything different than I already do.  HA!  Tricked You!  I confirmed with Guerlain PR that the Guerlain Cruel Gardenia Meteorites is SOLD OUT and not being re-released.  That makes this the first ever item from a "____ You Can't Have." series that I have purchased and then featured in the series all in the same year! All within a matter of months!  Not that you care.

 

 

Guerlain Cruel Gardenia Meteorites, released in January 2012 as part of the Guerlain 2012 Spring Color Collection, Les Roses et le Noir (The Pinks and the Blacks), was, in my opinion one of the most exquisite items from any of the spring makeup collections and one of the most beautiful Meteorites from Guerlain in a while.

Packaged within the legendary rosette of the Meteorites Perles, a stunning pink flower is found. It was named after one of the exclusive fragrances from the House of Guerlain, Cruel Gardenia.  By the way, this does not smell like the perfume.  Although, it would be nice if it did.  I know not everyone likes Gardenia scents but I do, and it's all about me...remember?

 

Cruel Gardenia Meteorites is a beautiful frosty delicate pink color. In fact it looks sooo frosty and pink in the pan I was hesitant to use it on my face in the daytime.  However, my inner Drag Queen overruled me and I applied it using a fluffy brush to the cheekbones, bridge of the nose and above my eyebrows.  My skin literally lit up.  The powder, for all its panache in the pan, is reserved on the skin. A subtle iridescent veil lay over my cheekbones.  The powder seemed to melt into my skin and form a beautiful lit from within effect.  My face looked...well...radiant!

 

No glitter, no harsh frost, no garish metallic, just demure effulgence emanated from my skin.  I have been using this almost every day since January (when I purchased it) and I must say that the powder wears down slowly.  The flower design is still very much present and the powder is not disintegrating when I run my face brush over it.

Getting a swatch of the Guerlain Cruel Gardenia Meteorites was difficult, as the powder only provide a slight highlight.  Here are three shots: One with flash, one without and one on my fingertips.

 

With Flash

Without Flash

 

Do you already own this treasure?  If not, are you now plotting to sneak into my home and steal it?  Well don't bother.  From now on I'm keeping it in a safe, under lock & key.

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer in Finland - Review, Pictures, Swatches

You know why it is so difficult for me to do a review of a tinted moisturizer or foundation?  Because everyone's skin is different and we all react differently to foundations.  So that being said. Let me explain my skin type, then explain the product, then explain my experience with the product and then YOU can determine if this product would be right for you.

Skin Type:

I have oily skin.  Like oily by 10:30 on a good day with powder, oily.  My face gets oily all over. not just in the T-Zone, but yes. the T-Zone is the most oily of all of my face.  I have very few wrinkles (YAY!) even though I am 40.  I have acne, but it's mostly under control due to prescription medications.  My skin is sensitive. It will turn red quickly and it will breakout if I used cosmetics or skin care with certain ingredient in it.  I am pale. I'm not saying I'm fair. I'm FREAKIN lily ass white, Casper the ghost, sheet of paper pale.  I would have probably been albino if I had one less freckle on my skin. Seriously. I'm white.  What's even better my neck is whiter than my face!  Finding a color match is difficult!

The Product:

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF30/PA+++ is a tinted moisturizer that borers on being a BB cream.  It comes in 9 different shades (YAY!) and is a new product from NARS. 

1 Finland, 2 Alaska, 3 St. Moritz, 4 Annapurna, 5 Cuba, 6 Malaga, 7 Seychelles, 8 Martinique, 9 Polynesia

I posted a press release about the product HERE.  The tinted moisturizer is infused with naturally derived ingredients that instantly hydrate and even skin tone. The oil-free formula obscures the appearance of lines, wrinkles, pores and other imperfections while providing a translucent veil of broad-spectrum sun protection.  NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer has a smooth lightweight consistency, buildable formula can be used as an alternative to foundation — or in combination with Powder Foundation for those who want more coverage and added hydration. The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is super sheer and translucent. As a result, skin is soft and smooth to the touch. It looks natural and glowing. Almost bare, but better.  Clinical studies have shown that the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer has been shown to reduce the appearance of discoloration and dark spots within just 4 weeks of regular use.  Special ingredients in this product include:

Kopara - natural polysaccharides that hydrate, condition and help encourage natural cell renewal

Oceana Saffron - a plant known for its antioxidant and soothing properties

and

Galaxaura - a red deep-sea algae found in the islands’ lagoons that is known to be rich in calcium, vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene.

 Also included in the formula: sea water and Ascorbyl Glucoside, a vitamin-C derivative that brightens and protects the skin against free-radical damage, to revitalize and re-mineralize the skin.

It also offers a high level and broad spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from those harmful sun rays.

My Experience with the Product:

that's supposed to represent "Heavenly"

1st off. the color match in Finland, (the lightest shade available) while it looks positively yellow against my arm is a fairly decent match for my skin.  Since  have a lot of red in my face the yellow base helps neutralize it.   The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is sheer, so I can blend it into my skin for almost seamless coverage.   

But I'm oily, remember. Tinted Moisturizer and oily skin don't really get along very well.  This was also the case here.  I was just as oily with the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer as I was with any foundation I own.  However. I wasn't more oily, nor did my face get oilier faster when using the NARS.  I just had to remember to blot....often  As I descend into decrepitude I realize that having oily skin is a blessing. I don't have as many wrinkles as those my age with dry skin.  That's a plus...because I can always blot away shine, but I can't blot away wrinkles.  

Using proper blotting linens will remove the oil and not much of the makeup so I must say that the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer did last a decently long time on my oily skin.  Those with drier skin or more normal skin will find that the NARS will last all day on you!

I did not break out.  Not one pimple, red mark, blemish, nothing.  It was almost soothing for my face.

I have been using this product for almost 4 weeks I swear my skin looks better!  My old acne marks are fading faster and my skin looks smoother over all.  Now that could be a result of other facial treatments...however, at least I know that the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer did not make my skin worse or add to any problems I may have been having.  That my darlings is a total and complete WIN!

Lastly the coverage provided by the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is amazing.  You can really build it for a more opaque look.  I applied this using my Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush, but I also found excellent results using my fingertips and a damp sponge.  This has some versatile application techniques.  I like that.

Last but not least, the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is a time saver. It has my moisturizer, treatment, sunscreen, and "foundation" all in one.  That's 4 steps right there and it doesn't need a primer!

Do You NEED this?  YES!  This product is a great tinted moisturizer/BB Cream.  It won't treat blemishes, per se, but it will not make them worse and it will, with repeated and consistent use, make the tone of your skin better!  The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is best suited for those with normal to dry skin, however those with combination skin can also wear it.  Those with oily skin, well you know the drill.  Your Results May Vary depending on the oil control primer you use, setting powder you use on top, and how often you blot.  The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer retails for $42 and is sold at Nordstrom and on the NARS website.

image from narscosmetics.com

I would also like to say Rest In Peace Marcel Nars.  Marcel was François Nars' French Bulldog.  He passed away on Wednesday the 22nd. Marcel was 15 years old.  He lived a very long time, for being a French Bulldog, but never long enough for us.  Goodbye sweet doggie. We will miss seeing you all dressed up.

This post contains an affiliate link for NARScosmetics.com but NOT for Nordstrom.com. Affilate links gives the Pink Sith Blog a commission when you click and purchase something from that link. It's just like a retail associate who works on a commission basis. When you shop through an affiliate link on Pink Sith you help support the site!

Beauty Box 5 Inaugural Launch February Sample Box - Review, Pictures

Yes. There is yet ANOTHER beauty Box subscription for me to prattle on about.  My motto: "I spend MY money so you don't have to spend yours."  Actually that's not my motto, but it is fast becoming the case with each and every beauty sample subscription I review here.

Allow me to introduce the Beauty Box 5 (BB5) Sample Service.

BB5 is a monthly beauty sample subscription service. For a monthly fee of $12 you will receive 4 to 5 beauty samples in a variety of makeup, skin care, fragrances and other beauty related items.  BB5 says it will carry a variety of products to include: Makeup, Skin care, Fragrances, Hair Care, Nail products, Oral/Dental care, Body Care and Beauty Tools.  The company is incredibly vague about what brands it will offer. In fact, they didn't list ANY brands until after the boxes shipped.  The brands they list currently are:  Comodynes Convenient Cosmetics, Priti NYC, Rosebud Perfume Company, and Weleda.  When asked, on their Facebook page, if they carry other brands, the BB5 answer was "yes"...but they did not volunteer any names or examples.  According to the BB5 FAQ:

"What brands can I expect in my box? 

Finding the right product means knowing that it’s the best product out there. From department store brands to the best-kept secrets, we'll give you the opportunity to try products at any scale so that you can find the products that best suit your lifestyle."

That could not be any more vague.  Seriously!

This is the incredibly cute package shown on the website.

This is what I actually received.

Not the Tiffany blue box with white ribbon I was expecting.  In fact. I was sort of let down.  At least sample services like Beauty Army, MyGlam, and Birchbox present their samples in packaging that can be re-used and looks slightly luxurious.  This sheer fabric bag stuffed between shredded black packing papers pales in comparison to the other beauty subscription services.

BB5 Has you fill out a beauty Profile when you sign up for the service.  The samples I received seemed to have no bearing on my beauty profile at all.  This is my beauty profile on BB5 (which by the way you cannot change once you create it...or at least I can't find a way to change it.)

click to enbiggen

These are the samples I received

1. Weleda Iris Hydrating Day Cream and Weleda Iris Hydrating Night Cream - Umm. My profile says I have OILY skin.  This cream is for DRY skin.  So yeah.  This becomes another impromptu hand cream for me.  At least it smells nice.
2. Comodynes Convenient Cosmetics Self Tanning Towelette - I don't self tan. Period.
3. Rosebud Perfume Company FULL SIZE Rosebud Salve - That's decent. I can always use another one.
4. Priti NYC Soy Nail Polish Remover Wipes - I always like nail products.  They are a nail care and skincare company that does not use synthetic fragrances or colors, and rely only on organic essential oils and botanicals to treat the skin.  I like that. Plus it's always nice to have nail polish wipes in case you need to remove your polish while on the move.

Why do these companies placate us by having us fill out a beauty profile that seems to make NO DIFFERENCE AT ALL on the samples we receive?  Seriously.  If they aren't going to take our answers in to account when selecting samples for the box, I would just as soon not fill one out.  It's insulting.  I have no interest in self tanning or skin care, let alone skin care for DRY SKIN!  Ugh.  What a waste.  (Sorry. Little rant there)

So all in all, BB5 initial offering was underwhelming, and just OK.  Well....maybe less than OK.

Currently there is no way to purchase the products you receive in your BB5 sample box via the BB5 website. I'm sure this is an oversight and it will be fixed soon.  I hope.  They also claim that you can leave feedback on their website about each of the samples, but as of 2/27/2012 that does not seem to be possible either.  Another oversight, I hope.

So, what was GOOD about BB5?

a) The launch was waaay more coordinated than the Beauty Army launch because people were allowed to sign up for the service any time, and not on a specific day at a specific time.  This method worked, because it didn't cause a strain on the servers and the company would know in advance how many subscriptions it had.

b) The Company offered discount coupon codes so people could get a discount of their first box or get 2 months for one month or something like that.  It's rare that Subscription Services offer discount codes. So that's nice.

c) They did send a full size product.  The Rosebud Perfume Company, Rosebud salve is a nice product and it was nice to receive a full tin.  Now don't get me wrong. I'm not falling all over myself about this product. I have seen other comments about how "thrilled" people are to receive this so I won't rain on their parade.  But this is a $6 item that most people have already purchased once before, if not many times over (That's Me!) but whatever. A full size product is a full size product.

d) I was introduced to a brand I have never heard of and I do like that.  I like when "new to me" brands are actually good, and the Priti NYC Soy Nail Polish remover was decent. I like having little polish remover packets for those unexpected nail polish emergencies when you are away from your bottle of remover.

Until I receive 2 more boxes I am going to reserve judgment as to if YOU should sign up for this service.  However, I will say that so far, not bowled over by the sample selection, sizes or lack of customization.  Hopefully that will change as they BB5 company grows.  We'll see.  My next BB5 box will ship on March 15th. I'll let you know what I get when that happens.

Did you sign up for this service?  If so, did you get the same items?  What are your thoughts?

As a FYI, BB5 does offer a link to its subscribers to allow them to get "credit" if they refer people to sign up for the service.  Since I have yet to determine if this service is worth signing up for, I have NOT included that link. All links to BB5 in this post will NOT give me credit if you subscribe.  I post this just a word of advice if you read other reviews and they don't indicate if their link is tied to that "referral credit" or not.  As always, I will tell you if there is an affiliate link in any post I have.  If there is a referral link I will also inform you and I will also provide a link that will NOT give me referral credit in that same post.

Beautifully Addicted To.... shows you how to create Galaxy Nails.

Musicalhouses takes a look at Benefit's latest boxed blush offering, Benefit Hervana!

Tigers get frisky on Valentine's Day as Addicted to Beauty enjoys London Zoo's viral campaign.

At Musing on Beauty, Mariella tries two of the Edward Bess Quad Royale and is positively surprised!

Dry skin got you down? Kajal Couture lets you in on an AMAZING new body moisturizer collection from Burts Bees.

Beautywoome's response to the Kate Upton's Sports Illustrated cover is that real boobs have rights too!

Valentine's Day may be over, but here at My Funny Valentine, we love pink lippies all year round!

The Pink Sith has found yet another TAUPE eyeshadow to drool over. This time it's Rouge Bunny Rouge Loose Glitter Pigment in Caress Of Mink!

Curious about the new NARS Cosmetics Spring Collection? Check out Krasey Beauty's swatches and review!

Lisamarie from Beauty Crazed would like to escape the cold weather for a resort. But, since that's not happening, she's brought it to her fingers with the essie Resort Collection! Check it out and see if it brings you warm thoughts too!

Looking for the ultimate baby pink lipstick? Amy Antoinette reviews Clarins Joli Rouge Baby Pink Lipstick.

At theNotice, Rae takes you through The BB Cream Breakdown, with bare-faced (!) and full-face swatch comparisons of Garnier and Marcelle's BB Cream offerings.

Tracy at Beauty Reflections shares her secret beauty habit and wants to know yours!

Has Pammy Blogs Beauty discovered a new Holy Grail eye shadow? Check out her review of L'Oreal's new 24 hour Infallible Eye Shadow in Iced Latte.

Phyrra debuts her first video tutorial of the year, a vibrant sapphire blue look with Makeup Geek & Sugarpill.

---Every woman wants soft, luscious, plump lips. Win a tube of 3Lab Perfect Lips from Prime Beauty and perfect YOUR pout!

The Lipstick League - week of 2.20.12

Question of the Week: - If you weren't blogging about beauty, what would you be blogging about?

Answer: - Nothing. I count I would be as passionate writing about crafts or cake decorating.

we heart this - Glam.com just sent their latest package to Beauty Board members. Take a look at what they're excited about for spring, from L’Eau de Chloé to mascara with a flexible wand!

Beauty Junkies Unite - We tried out six shades of the new L'Oreal Infallible 24HR Eyeshadows, and couldn't believe the long wear we got out of a shadow that isn't a cream!

Clumps of Mascara - is head over heels in love with OPI's Holland collection. Some of the polishes are just so so and others are just amazing!

EauMG - Inspired by a Gauguin art exhibit, Victoria shares which perfumes that she believes could fit in with these Polynesian paradises.

Gouldylox Reviews - You can mix this little miracle into everything. This huile is that good!

Lipglossiping - Gets on board with the latest beauty trend straight from London Fashion Week... Face Lace. Intricate stick-on designs for the visage!

Nouveau Cheap - If you haven't heard, Payless Shoe Source sells cosmetics now. And guess what? There's some awesomeness to be found in their newest collection.

Pink Sith - Loves her Barry M Dazzle Dust in Oyster Grey so much, she went a Absolutely Ape with Alliteration.

Prime Beauty - continues her series on “Brands You Need To Know About But Probably Don’t” with GlamNatural and their outstanding hydrating foundation.

Phyrra - Flirts with the Make Up For Ever La Bohème Rouge Artist Natural lipsticks, which are perfect for spring.

Vampy Varnish - Loves the new NYX Roll On Shimmers and they come in 16 shades!

My Natura Bisse The Bubble Facial at Tyson's Galleria Neiman Marcus

Wow.  How do I even begin this post?  I had one of the most amazing facials in my entire life.  Now granted I don't really get facials all that often.  I do a lot of at home masks but a real facial?  Well, it's been years!  This is going to be a fairly long post. I'll include tons of pictures to amuse you but if you want the "Cliff's Notes" version of my Natura Bisse "The Bubble" Facial at my local Tyson's Galleria Neiman Marcus, I can sum it up for you in three words:

AH-FREAKIN-MAZING!

Yes. It was that good.  I told you all about "The Bubble" in an earlier post. So if you want all the details please look there. (I don't want to make this post any longer than it has to be)  As you can see, this space aged looking dome of skincare goodness, was situated on the first floor of the Neiman Marcus Store.  "The Bubble" goes on tour and if you are interested in booking a Natura Bisse facial in "The Bubble" you can contact your Natura Bisse counter specialist or check out the website.  Regardless, it is an amazing experience that I am so thrilled to tell you about.

click to enbiggen!

Here is the little sign that explained what was happening at my Neiman Marcus.

And here are the wonderful women that helped make this experience possible.  Michael Ann, on the left, is the Natura Bisse National Sales Director.  Not only is she charming as all heck she really knows what she is talking about with skin care.  By the way, her skin looks amazing! Seriously. She's older than I thought, and honestly, she glows.  This is a woman that spent years on tanning beds and in the sun. Now, she has wisely stopped that practice and look what Natura Bisse has done for her!  Oh and we also connected by regaling stories about the greed and excess of the 1980's. Good times.  (By the way, for those readers that were born in the 1980's and beyond, The original Wall Street movie does not even do the 1980's justice; but watch it to get a better idea of what it was like, my little new born fawns)  On the right is Alexis the esthetician that preformed my amazing facial.  Her hands are like butter and she told me exactly what she was doing during the entire facial and made me feel completely relaxed.

Because the air in the bubble is 99.5% pure oxygen, which means it is scrubbed clean of pollens, pollutions, fragrances, irritants, you "feel" so much better having spent time in it.  Alexis also told me that because of the high concentration of the oxygen, your skin receives the serums and treatments better in this environment.  The air filter looked like this:

OK.  Pretty basic, but I'll tell you, it made a huge difference.  I am terminally "stuffy" all winter long and going into "The Bubble" I was able to breathe better than I have all winter.  Of course the effect is not immediate but by the end of the facial, my lungs felt years younger!

The facial lasted an entire hour.  During that hour Alexis pampered my from head to toe with the finest Natura Bisse products.  The end result was Amazing Skin. I looked like a new woman. I'm not going to say I looked 8 years younger or any such nonsense, but I did look incredibly rested, glowy and pretty.  Isn't that what it's all about? Looking pretty?  Well that's how this amazing facial made me feel and look!

Now, for a play-by-play of all the products used, read the following:

image from naturabisse.com

Since I just arrived from work, Alexis cleansed my skin with The Cure All in One Cleanser.  This is a gentle cleansing cream that works for all skin types.  It thoroughly removed all of my makeup, even the waterproof eyeliner and concealer without stripping the moisture from my skin.

image from naturabisse.com

Then she used The Cure Hydro-Gel Toner on my skin.  There are essential oils, native to the Mediterranean, in this toner. (Olive Leaf, Orange, Mandarin, Lemon, Lavender, Rosemary, Cypress and Sage). The toner eliminates any impurities left behind after cleansing and soothes the skin with Green Tea Extract. Oh and it smells fantastic!

image from naturabisse.com

Then came the Glycolic Peel! The Glyco Extreme Peel is a Pro-Enzyme peptide exfoliant.  This triple exfoliating system is formulated with a 50% buffered complex of Glycolic Acid and other AHA's. Also  included in this peel is Prickly Pear Extract which is supposed to help with the natural cell renewal mechanisms and stimulates the exfoliation process, Exfoliactyl Mimetic Peptide, an exfoliating peptide, and Beta Lipoacid which is supposed to stimulate the exfoliating process from within and contains anti-aging properties.  

Now I know what you all are thinking: "Elvira! You have sensitive skin!  What the heck are you doing putting a 50% Glycolic Acid peel on your face?"  I was thinking the same thing. Trust me.  Alexis did a small patch test before applying the peel to make sure my skin could tolerate it.  Once she saw that there was no adverse reaction to the peel, she went ahead an applied it all over my face.  My skin turns red VERY quickly, so you can imagine my surprise when I did not turn beet red when the peel was on my face or when it was rinsed off my face.  

image from naturabisse.com

Speaking of rinsing off.  Alexis used the Natura Bisse Round Cleansing Sponges to help cleanse my skin. Oooh were they soft!  Natura Bisse’s sponges are unique in that they do not allow bacteria to produce between uses. Once the sponge is moistened after use it quickly dries, preventing bacteria formation. This keeps your sponges sanitary and allows for re-use. The sponges can be cleaned in the wash machine after several uses, if necessary and they last an average of 6-8 months before replacement is advised.

image from naturabisse.com

After the Glyco Peel, Alexis applied the Oxygen Mask. This mask is supposed to help with congested skin (like mine) and hyper pigmented skin (which I have from sun exposure in my ill spent youth)  This gel mask is supposed to infuse the skin with Oxygen, decongest, soothe, hydrate and soften. Alexis said it is ideal for use after a long flight or particularly sleepless night.  What is also nice about this mask is that it prevents the proliferation of bacteria, which as we all know is the culprit for the cause of acne.  The Natura Bisse Oxygen Mask is a dream come true!

image from naturabisse.com

After the Oxygen mask was cleansed off and some more The Cure Hydro-Gel Toner was applied, Alexis used Natura Bisse Diamond Gel Cream on my skin  This is an Anti-aging and bio-regenerative  treatment cream.  The light gel formula was perfect for my oily skin.  Alexis recommends the Diamond Extreme cream for those with very dry skin.  The Diamond Gel Cream has a lifting effect on the skin. It firms the skin and helps with repairing and adding elastin and collagen to you skin.  There are some powerful anti-oxidants in the cream and with repeated use the Diamond Gel Cream is supposed to diminish expression lines and wrinkles.

image from naturabisse.com

Speaking of expression lines...One of my FAVORITE Natura Bisse products was used during this facial.  The Natura Bisse Inhibit-Tensolift.  This is called Botox in a bottle!  The product is a bio-emulsion with 71% highly active ingredients that is supposed to be an effective cosmetic alternative to micro-injections and other aesthetic medical procedures. Inhibit-Tensolift is formulated with What Natura Bisse calls a three-dimensional, 3D Lifting Technology. It has a cumulative lifting effect, providing visible results. Having used this product in the past I will tell you it works.  It is worth every penny.  Oh, and if you currently get Botox injections, The Natura Bisse Inhibit-Tensolift used in between injections will make your Botox effect last longer, which means fewer injections!

image from naturabisse.com

Let us not forget about the delicate eye area.  Alexis used Diamond Extreme Eye, which is described as an energizing lift for eyes.  This intensely moisturizing eye cream has an almost balm like texture to it.  It is supposed to provide firmness and luminosity and is also supposed to diminish fine lines and wrinkles as well as have an upper lid lifting effect. 

image from naturabisse.com

As the final facial treatment Alexis applied a sheet mask that was infused with Natura Bisse Diamond Drops.  It's described as a DNA Shield.  This sheet mask is exclusive to the facial procedure but you can purchase Diamond Drops to use every day without the sheet mask.  According to Natura Bisse this product is supposed to hydrate and soften the skin while restoring elasticity. It's a serum that you apply OVER your day cream, "...creating a transepidermal membrane that protects the skin by ensuring the absorption of previously applied treatments."  It is also supposed to have an immediate lifting effect and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.  Diamond Drops contain Marine DNA which is supposed to act as a protective barrier against environmental aggressors.

image from naturabisse.com

LAST but not least Alexis provided a neck and arm massage with Natura Bisse Diamond Body Cream.  This anti-aging body cream smells slightly like lavender and is supposed to nourish the skin and help prevent skin aging in areas such as the arms and thighs.  She also gave me a light massage of my legs and feet too. Ahhhh.

When the facial was over I felt like a new woman.  I was almost in a dream like state when I realized it was time for me to get dressed and go home.  Looking in the mirror my skin looked soft and smooth and happy. It wasn't red or angry as it is wont to look after any facial.  But the real amazing part was the next morning.  My skin actually looked BETTER than it did when I left the facial the night before. BETTER!  My skin as soft and hydrated and GLOWED! I only needed a sheer tinted moisturizer and a little concealer under my eyes and I was ready to go. Even little Darthypie told me I looked beautiful when I was getting him dressed the next morning.  How awesome is that?

Now, like I mentioned above the Natura Bisse "Bubble" facial is "on tour" but you can always contact your local Neiman Marcus to see if it coming to your town.  I also suggest that if you are seriously into skin care and want to make a change to your skin WITHOUT resorting to medical procedures (Hi! That's me) invest in some time and some money Natura Bisse.  Your local Product Specialist can do an analysis of your skin and determine which products will work best for you.

I would like to thank Neiman Marcus, Natura Bisse, Michael Ann and Alexis for this amazing experience.  I cannot tell you what a difference it has made for me...well actually I can. I just did. 

I also want to thank Denise Thomas, the Product Specialist for Natura Bisse at Neiman Marcus Tyson's Galleria. If you have any questions about the products she will be able to help you out.  Her number is 703-761-1600 X-3305 She is sweet and knowledgeable and not pushy!

Last, but not least, I want to thank Kathy Shoreman for introducing me to Denise and for helping facilitate getting "The Bubble" Facial for me.  If you want to purchase any of the Natura Bisse products I mentioned in this post or anything else for that matter, Kathy is the woman to call. Not only is she helpful she is also a sci-fi geek and can tell you more than you need to know about Star Trek.  How awesome is that?  You can reach Kathy by phone at 703-761-1600 X-3282.

P.S. Wanna know how good I looked after the facial?

I came in looking like THIS:

And left Looking like THIS:

*photos of me may not be 100% accurate.

P.P.S.
During the Neiman Marcus Spring Beauty Event (2/23/2012 - 3/4/2012) you can get this deluxe gift with purchase from Natura Bisse with your $250 Natura Bisse purchase.

Set includes:
Intensive Tolerance Booster, 6mL.
Diamond White, 6mL.
Cure Sheer Cream, 7mL.
SPF 30 Daily Defense Fluid, 10mL.
Natura Bisse pique bag.

Thursday Poll

If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all.

That saying applies in a lot of circumstances.

Say you see an ugly baby. (Is there such a thing as an ugly baby?) You aren't going to tell the parents that their kid looks like a troll doll.  Or how about when stranger posts a picture of their makeup on a website. You wouldn't tell them they look hideous...well some cowards find courage on the internet and will say something nasty.  In that case. the "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all" still applies but some jerks will ignore that.  What if you are in a restaurant and the cook sends out something that doesn't taste good?  Does the "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all" motto still apply?  Of course not. You let the waiter know and they fix the problem. (hopefully not by spitting in your food) What about buying a product from a company and you aren't satisfied with it  does the "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all" motto still apply?  Of course not! You let the company know you are not satisfied with the item YOU purchased.  Right?  So why was it when people were complaining about the pathetic My Glam Bag for February on the My Glam Facebook page were these "cheerleaders" for My Glam  spouting off the "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all" motto?  I have no idea.  Maybe these women don't like conflict.  Maybe they were part of the VERY small minority that was actually pleased with the bag.  Regardless of their personal feelings about the My Glam bag, it should not dictate what OTHERS can say about their experience with the bag.  Scolding other Facebook fans who expressed displeasure, in a non confrontational way, about the contents of February's bag is just as obnoxious as telling a stranger that her makeup application looks like crap. (In my opinion) Oh. That shouldn't be in parenthesis.  OPINION is the key here.  It is my opinion that the February My Glam Bag was below my expectations and was extremely unsatisfying.  Since when are we not allowed to voice a negative opinion on the Facebook page of a brand?  It really annoyed me that these "Polly Purebreds" were all offended that people were expressing displeasure with the February Bag.  One of these women even went to far as to say that those that were upset with the contents of the bag were being "UNGRATEFUL".  Really?  I should be grateful when I PAY for a product that does not meet my expectations?  Am I grateful to the hairdresser that gives me a crappy hair cut, because well, after all, he took the time to cut my hair?  HELL NO! Let me make it as simple as I can for those that thought people shouldn't complain about the product they received.

A) I signed up for a service based on examples of what sort of product the company would deliver.

B) I PAID for the service with the same expectations that I too would receive the same if not similar products.

C) When the service delivered products that were well below REASONABLE expectations, I am allowed to be unhappy with the service I paid for.

Plain and simple.

Yes. The internet has created a whole new breed of bullies.  People that never would say nasty things to a person's face, now have this false courage to do so over the internet. That behavior is deplorable.  HOWEVER, voicing your opinion about a poor service over the internet with REASONABLE methods (such as leaving a comment on the company's Facebook wall, especially when said company is unresponsive to e-mail. ) is acceptable. (No swearing please) In short. Let's leave the cliche "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all" to the bullies that bash people's looks or kids or whatever.  But don't get your panties in a twist because you don't like to hear that your favorite company may not be pleasing all of their customers.

On To The Poll!

1.  Blush Of The Day? - Chanel Joues Contrast in Espiegle.  A loverly orange/coral/salmon/peach color.  One of these days I'm going to figure out the difference between these colors.

2.  What is your favorite quote by someone else? - Well I have a favorite quote from Coco Chanel, but I think Olympia Dukasis' line from the Steel Magnolia's movie is more appropriate for today's poll. "I always say, If you don't have anything nice to say, come sit by me.".

3. Most overrated and underrated beauty products? - Overrated = Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. It's not the miracle mascara that magazines claim it is.  Underrated = Lancome Dual Finish Powder Foundation. Every time I use it I get compliments on how smooth and airbrushed my skin looks.

4.  What is one of your pet peeves? - Chewing gum or eating with your mouth open. I have some cow-workers (intentional typo) that eat with their mouths open and it makes my skin crawl They also chew gum in the same fashion and snap it too. It's all I can d not to throttle them and duct tape their moth shut.

5.  What is your current beauty lemming? - The Chantecaille Coral Reefs Palette. I on every Chantecaille 4 pan palette. I must own this one too.  Wanna know why?  Because they put a taupe shadow in every palette and they all look beautiful!

P.S. If you disagree with my little rant above. That's OK. I'm happy to hear another side to the discussion.

Beauty Army February Beauty Box

I recently told you about the disastrous launch of the Beauty Army Beauty Box for January.  I'm happy to say that the Beauty Army February Box was MUCH easier to order! The server didn't go down. I was sent an e-mail that my time to pick samples was ready. My order was shipped in a timely fashion and I didn't grow old waiting by the mail box for it to arrive.  A very nice improvement!

Eyeshadow from January box.

The products in Last month's box were so good I actually ordered two of them!  I picked up a full size Shea Terra Organics Black Soap and a full Size JOICO K-Pak RevitaLuxe Hair Conditioner. I have also used the MyFace Cosmetics Blingtone Eyeshadow in Sp"ice"y a few times too!  All in All a decent sample box that introduced me to some new brands that I am enjoying quite a lot.

OK. So what is in THIS month's box?

Well as you may know, with Beauty Army you get to pick your 6 samples from a list of 9 products.  Changing your answers to the profile survey will slightly change up the items that are offered to you for selection.  I noticed that if I selected a younger age group I was offered sunscreen while the older, and much more decrepit age group to which I actually belong, was offered Neck and Boob lifting cream.  *sigh*  Since I have more sunscreen than people on a space trip to the sun might use, I opted for the neck cream.  I mean I am getting older and well, maybe I could benefit from it...right?

So this is how my Beauty Army Box arrived.

Everything was packaged perfectly and all the items came in a sweet cardboard box, which I have been told is great for lipstick storage!

The Items I received were:

Pssssst! Dry Shampoo

Indie Lee The Shampoo

Weleda Iris Hydrating Facial Lotion

MyFace Cosmetics Blingtone Eyeshadow in Bell Bottom Blues

StriVectin SD Stretch Mark and Wrinkle Cream

and

Mama Mio Boob Tube Bust and Neck Firmer

OK.  So this month's box was not a home run but it wasn't a total fail either.

WIN) I love Dry Shampoo. My hair goes flat easily and dry shampoo helps keep the volume in my hair. Pssssst! is a drugstore brand  am familiar with and wile that's nice and all it would have been cool to get a different brand or a higher end brand to see what all the fuss is about with the higher end brands.  Either way, I'm happy with the dry shampoo and it's a nice small size to carry in my purse.

FAIL) The Indie Lee Shampoo smells pretty awful. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it.  I think this may go to an unsuspecting future ex friend because after I give them this smelly shampoo I doubt they will be friends with me much longer.  Another smelly item from this box is that Mama Mio Boob Tube cream.  It smells TERRIBLE.  I put a little on the back of my hand, to test it out and it was overpowering. I'm not sure if it is the Fenugreek in the ingredients but whatever it is, it's offensive.  I can't imagine putting that on my neck & chest and have to smell that for hour and hours.  Nope. This one goes in the trash. I don't hate my friends THAT much.

WIN) MyFace Cosmetics Blingtone Eyeshadow in Bell Bottom Blues is an decent color. I can totally see myself wearing this as a smoky and sparkly navy eye.  I might use it to layer over another navy shadow I have, in order to make it sparkle.

FAIL) The Weleda Iris Hydrating Facial Lotion and Strivectin Cream will go into the sample bag for giveaways. I have too many face creams right now and I'm really NOT focused on skin care.  Which I made VERY CLEAR in my Beauty Army profile, but I guess they only had skin care samples this month.

So only 2 things I liked from the 6 items in this month's box. I guess that's better than nothing.  A full sized eyeshadow in a decent color is nothing to sneeze at and the scents of the other products weren't something that Beauty Army could have known I wouldn't like, so no fault there.  I do plan to do one more box with them.  If the majority of samples are skin care again I think I might unsubscribe from this service.  Skin Care samples are just not my thing right now. It might work for you tho. So far, Beauty Army has delivered some decent samples for brands that I never would have tried if not for them.

What about you?  Did you sign up for Beauty Army?  What did you get in your box this month?