Brigid's Beauty Blog

my nails are growing !!! Just finished getting them done with OPI Axxium "black cherry chutney"

2011-11-11T11:17:00.001-05:00

Trend Watch - Capes!

2011-11-10T20:09:00.001-05:00

From round lens sunglasses to wide leg bell bottoms, seventies boho chic is back with a vengeance!

My favorite throw back to reemerge this season is the cape. Effortless and versatile, a cape is the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon coffee date or late night cocktails. Ditch those stiff, boring overcoats this winter and opt for a cape!

Remember, capes aren't just for super heroes! Make this trend your signature look and fly!

Check out the Morrine Cape by DVF (and it's on sale!)

Kim Kardashian -Kween of the Klassless

2011-11-10T18:39:00.001-05:00

I have always had mixed emotions when it comes to Kim Kardashian. Sure she's beautiful, but how much of her beauty is real? If you look at pictures of her over the years (roughly 2007 onward) you can't help but notice a dramatic change in her facial features. She openly admits to regular Botox treatments (before the age of 30!) and it was revealed in the leaked divorce papers from her first marriage that she had liposuction and breast augmentation in her early 20's. However, she adamantly denies any plastic surgery beyond the Botox (really now?!?!?!)

F A K E!

Yeah, maybe she has some cellulite and maybe she isn't a size 0 but that doesn't mean she's authentic.

Her multi million dollar "fairy tale" wedding was nothing more than a sham ... an obnoxious waste of money during one of the worst recessions in our nation's history only to end in divorce 72 days later! And I don't believe for a minute that she didn't make money off of the fiasco. Just like her "natural" nose, it's not believable.

It's time society starts valuing BRAINS, REAL beauty (in varied forms, not just "cookie cutter" ideals) and CLASS. Unfortunately Kim falls short in all of those areas.

What do you all think of Kim Kardashian? Will you continue watching her shows and buying her products? I know I won't ...

Many media outlets are predicting her [inevitable] downfall in the wake of her divorce drama. Do you agree?

Nail Biters ... No Problem

2011-11-10T18:11:00.000-05:00

I have been a lifelong nail biter. Naturally, this nasty habit is not very healthy nor aesthetically pleasing. I have tried everything over the years to curb the biting. For a long time I maintained acrylic nails. However, I noticed that after a few days acryclic nails start to lose their shape and appear dull and just plain fake. However, they were a better than having gnawed down, bloody, stubby nails. Not very professional looking at all!

After my wedding I removed my acrylic nails. They were breaking and I just didn't have the time to be running back and forth to the nail salon for repairs. My natural nails were too weak and brittle to even put polish on but I decided to let them grow out a bit so I could try the OPI AXXIUM gel nail polish. I had heard and read nothing but positive things about OPI's gel nail color line and I was ready for a natural yet durable look while I attempted to kick my habit.

Two weeks ago I had my nails done with OPI AXXIUM and they still look great. They feel stronger and they are growing fast. I am getting a fill tomorrow and will post pictures of my progress. Unlike regular nail polish, gel nail color last 2-3 weeks with minimal chipping (if at all). Your natural nails stay protected from everyday wear and tear and there are no drills involved. More and more color options are being released as well.

Best Nails II in Somerset does a fantastic job with OPI AXXIUM. Like any other beauty service, the product is only as good as the technician applying it and the nail techs at Best Nails are well trained in gel nail color application.

A full set runs between $25-30 but worth every penny!

Eyelash Extensions ... Effortless Beauty for Everyone!

2011-11-10T17:55:00.000-05:00

Ladies,

As you know I was frustrated with my less than lavish lashes. I've tried just about every mascara there is and I just couldnt get the desired look I wanted without a lot of fuss. I just don't have the the time in the morning to spend an hour on my make up and pretty much resigned myself to the fact that I'd never have great lashes without a ton of effort... until...

Twist of fate!
After complimenting a fellow attorney's envy worthy, Hollywood perfect lashes, she let me in on a little secret - EYELASH EXTENSIONS. I was skeptical at first because I have seen firsthand how bad poorly done extensions can look but her's were practically flawless and deceivingly natural...

More about my lash extensions later ... I'll let the suspense build and I'll tell you where you can get them done ... You will not believe how AFFORDABLE they are too!

I'm baccccccckkkkkkkkk!

2011-11-10T17:51:00.000-05:00

Hello faithful readers! After repeated requests to get back on here and blog, I'm back and I have a ton to share! So much has happened since my last post and I cannot wait to get this dialogue going again.

I've had eyelash extensions for almost a year now ... More about that later.

I got married (my wedding day look was simple, elegant and so easy!).

I finally found a hair style that works for me and my hair type. Let's find yours!

I've found drugstore makeup that actually isn't crap! Who knew?!?!?!

Deals, steals and products I love ... I love being your human guinea pig!

Please let me know if there is anything you want me to write about, test, try, etc.

Here we goooo!

Terrifying Truth Behind Tanning Beds

2010-01-27T21:47:00.002-05:00

Winter is well underway and many of us are feeling the harsh affects of cold weather. Dry skin, dull hair, cracked lips and pasty skin are just a few of the beauty woes brought on by the cold. Perhaps our biggest complaint about the winter months is the lack of a tan or that dewy glow that only summer sun can bring. This drives many women to seek out the instant gratification of tanning beds. I myself used tanning beds for many years, beginning in high school.

Tanning beds are a quick and easy way to maintain a tan yearround. The allure of tanning beds is so powerful that many people frequent them on a weekly basis, including during the summer. The popularity of the reality television show, "Jersey Shore", exposes America's obsession with being tan -- an obsession which extends beyond the "guido" subculture. For example, there is a tanning salon on every block in the tiny town of Amherst where I went to college. There was always a long wait at any given time at one of these many tanning salons. I myself went tanning regularly in college, sometimes using my only spending money for the week on a few tanning sessions. The desire to look tan was overwhelming, not only for me but also for my friends and acquaintances.

Tanning to me was just another part of my beauty routine. It cleared my skin and eased the symptoms of my eczema. I was also under the misconception that my olive complexion decreased the my risk for skin cancer. Although I didn't use tanning beds constantly, I used them enough. I would go months without using them but would then jump right back into a regular tanning routine. This continued into law school.

Wake-up Call

During exams during the second semester of my first year of law school, one of my classmates was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma -- the most deadly type of skin cancer. He lost his battle with cancer two years later. It was after his death that I gave up tanning beds for good.

Around the same time of my classmate's untimely death, I was browsing a local magazine and came across an article about a young woman, Glenna Kohl, who also lost her battle with melanoma. Glenna was a Salve Regina graduate. She was born and raised on Cape Cod and worked as a lifeguard at a Barnstable beach during high school and college. She too loved looking tan year round and used tanning beds regularly. She discovered a lump in her groin during her senior year of college which lead to a diagnosis of stage III melanoma. The cancer continued to spread through her body and she died several years later. Her story was a true wake up call for me and should be for everyone reading who uses tanning beds. You can read more about Glenna's story here http://www.glennasfund.org/.

An explosive study was released in 2009 which found that using tanning beds before the age of 30 increases your risk for melanoma by 75%. This study was released in July around the same time I learned of Glenna's story. Not to mention that tanning leads to premature aging, unsightly sun spots and splotches. No one want to be a leather face (remember that neighbor in "There's Something about Mary??)!

I gave up tanning beds for good in July 2009. Although I tanned less and less over recent years, I pledged to never again expose my body to tanning bulbs. I made an appointment with a dermatologist to have my body examined for skin cancer. Although the appointment was a terrifying experience for me, I knew that it was necessary. Like Glenna I was also a lifeguard, and my body has been exposed to a lot of UV radiation. I also needed the peace of mind. After an extensive examination using a special light I was given a clean bill of health. I will now be getting yearly skin exams. Melanoma is 100% curable if found early and removed properly. If you have used tanning beds, even sporadically, I encourage you to get your skin examined. It painless and easy and could save your life.

There are other ways to safely stay tan year round and can easily be added to your beauty routine.

During law school I discovered spray tanning. I found a great salon specializing in spray tanning, and I loved the instant and safe results I achieved with spray tanning. Even if you are fair skinned, a good bronzing specialist can use a formula to give you a natural look. Although there are some drawbacks to spray tanning -- it doesn't last as long as a natural tan and when the formula mixes with sweat it can produce a funky odor -- it is still 100% safe and natural (a good formula will use only natural plan extracts). A good spray tan will give you a very deep and dark tan.

I spray tan at home when I don't need a full body spray. I use Quick Tan which is a at-home spray tan system that is affordable and it produces salon-like results. I purchase it through Ultimate Body Bronzing in Fall River where I get my spray tans done. It is a great tool for getting an instant tan before a night out. It is an instant bronzer which makes for easy application. Simply spray and blend with a cosmetic sponge and set with a blowdryer. A can retails for $25.00 and lasts approximately 3 months.

As I have mentioned earlier I also LOVE the Dior sunless tanner and bronzer for daily use. It is available at Sephora.

Spring Fashion Preview

2010-01-19T21:27:00.003-05:00

This is spring is all about vibrant, bold colors and prints. Bright, colorful animal prints abound this season. I am just wild over all things animal print (it's a bit of an obsession), so I am going to have SO much fun with my spring wardrobe. The trend is being carried over from the fall runways, but the smooth transition into spring brings a wider color pallette and a bit more edge. I also saw a lot of peacock inspired prints and color schemes as well.

Nautical inspired ensembles will also making a big impact this spring and summer as seen in the resort collections (most notably Chanel). Expect striped boatneck 3/4 length tees in ivory/red and white/navy. Pair your sailor tee with a pair of crisp white or khaki shorts or slacks and a bold tote. A classic trench paired with a relaxed look (think skinnies or jeggings with ballet flats and a striped tee) will keep you in step with this trend as we transition into spring weather. The yacht club meets the runway creates a very interesting juxtaposition.

If you are looking to accessorize your spring wardrobe, flashy, chunky costume jewelry is the way to go. My favorite piece from the spring fashion shows are these amazing Cavalli earrings with brightly colored crystal parrots swinging from a dangling hoop. These are definitely pricey, but I will be hunting for a cheaper alternative!!!

Forever21 is currently offering their take on the spring trends at incredibly affordable prices. I suggest heading down there to start mapping out your spring wardrobe. I love Forever21 for spring and summer fashions. This wildly popular retailer is always on the cutting edge, and it is easier to get away with lower quality fabrics in the spring and summer.

I will be writing a more detailed spring fashion report once I get back from NYC, because I will then have actually tried on and scrutinized the fashions. For now enjoy my favorite DVF dress from the Spring Cruise Line (can't wait for it to go on sale!!!!).

Ecstatic about Extase

2010-01-19T21:07:00.000-05:00

As you are all aware, I am a mascara junkie. I love big, bold, long lashes. I am always searching for that perfect formula that can really deliver results. I recommended Fiberwig in my Top 10 Beauty Buys, and I still love that product but I found something even BETTER!!!

I had received an email about Dior Extase some time ago. It is Dior's newest mascara. I was a Dior devotee in college, going through tubes and tubes of Dior Show. However, the thick forumla was too clumpy for me, causing spidery lashes. As a result, I was reluctant to try Extase, but it boasted some major benefits that are lacking in many other mascaras. For one, it uses fibers to build and sculpt lashes just like fiberwig. The use of fibers creates a faux lash look by literally painting on extensions. Fibers also make for easier removal -- no streaking and racoon eyes as the fibers easily wash off with warm water. In addition, Extase contains a lash conditioner which nourishes lashes and enhances growth. Daily mascara application can dry lashes out and result in more lash loss. Extase works to prevent the drying effects of mascara while promoting growth!!!! It is a bit pricey, retailing at $28 a tube, but SO worth the expense. I highly recommend this mascara, and you will not be disappointed.

Happy Saturday!!!!

2010-01-16T08:11:00.000-05:00

Good morning!! I am about to leave for hot yoga ... it's a great de-stresser and it really opens up the mind and body. It allows you to sweat out toxins and impurities while building lean muscle. I go to Divine Yoga in Fall River ... great prices and classes offered 7 days a week!!!

I am heading to Sephora today to use my Christmas gift cards. I am SO excited to pick up some new products to try out and share with you!!! I am also going to grab another pair of jeggings at Nordstrom because I am SO addicted! I will report my findings at Sephora to you all later.

In the meantime, I am going to be giving away a travel sized bottle of Moroccan Oil. The 17th person to email me will win! Email me @ brigid.elizabeth@gmail.com for your chance to snag a bottle of this potent potion!!! XO

Ladies -- Let's Unite in 2010!!!!

2010-01-14T17:52:00.004-05:00

I had the unique opportunity of having a lengthy conversation with a female celebrity recently. She was a media fixture in 2009, and she was often portrayed in a negative light. During our conversation I learned that she was quite the opposite of what you would have expected -- she is witty, articulate, interesting and brutally honest. It was a fluke thing how we go to talking but our conversation made me realize how ruthless and evil women can be to one another. Here is this young woman who lived in relative obscurity before 2009 but was suddenly thrust into the limelight and instantly judged -- mostly by other women (we are the ones that read the tabloids). This young woman's experience is a microcosm for the female condition.

Perhaps it's a vestige of some primal mating ritual, but women down right hate one another. We instantly judge and criticize other women and our jealousy towards one another can become all-consuming. Close friendships are often difficult to maintain, as even our closest confidant can instantly turn into a threat. The vicious reality of female relationships causes many of us to feel insecure and inadequate. We obsessively compare ourselves to one another. We find it difficult to trust people causing us to easily discard our female companions; we have made ourselves dispensible to one another! This is not the way it should be!!!!! We can learn so much from one another, even from our worst enemy. We must learn to better cultivate empathy for our fellow females and stop being judgmental. We have all been both the victim and perpetrator of a rush to judgment.

I decided to write this blog so I could reach out and connect with other women. I invite you into my world so you can learn from me and I can learn from you. We are all a lot more alike than we think, and I hope my posts and thoughts can illustrate that. Let's unite in 2010 ladies - stop judging, stop hating and start sharing!!!

Bloomie's House Brand

2010-01-13T20:51:00.002-05:00

Bloomingdale's house brand "Aqua" offers highend department store quality clothing and accessories at extremely reasonable prices. I love their blazers and dresses ... if you are looking for something a bit nicer than your average mall store fashions I suggest browsing the Aqua line on Bloomingdales.com :)

Giveaways????

2010-01-13T20:32:00.000-05:00

I am considering starting a monthly giveaway of one of my favorite beauty products. If this is something you may be interested in, please let me know. I want to give my readers an opportunity to experience what I write about firsthand. Any feedback on this idea would be greatly appreciated.

Stylist/Salon Loyalty

2010-01-13T20:02:00.002-05:00

I have been asked about salon loyalty. I am EXTREMELY loyal to my local salon, and I am constantly sending new clients to the stylists. However, it took me some time to find the right fit. Having lived away during college it was hard to maintain a monogamous relationship with a stylist. It wasn't until I started law school that I was able to forge an exclusive relationship with a salon.

I went to the same salon for nearly 3 years after college and I absolutely loved my stylist and still do. However, I did not like the venue of the salon. It was noisy and the lighting was terrible (fluorescent nand strobe lighting = not very flattering). Additionally that salon was not full service, which I craved because of my busy schedule. I began gravitating towards a new spa-like full service salon for waxing, facials and massages. I held off on my hair until it became way too hectic to be bouncing back and forth. I have been getting all of my services done at the same place for two years now and I couldn't be happier. My hair stylist even convinced me to chop off my long, long locks last year because I trust her that much. She knows what works for me and what doesn't and listens to me despite my tendency to be a bit demanding (love you, Nikki). My aesthetician, who owns the salon, knows my skin better than I do and she has transformed my once lifeless brows into arched wonders. My massage therapist knows all of my tough spots and takes the time to work out my knots even if we run off schedule. I am so lucky to have found such a jewel.

If you find a stylist AND a venue that works for you, stick with it. I cannot stress enough the importance of a good venue. You should be able to feel totally relaxed and have all of your needs met by the stylist AND the salon.

Try not to let guilt get in the way of your "me" time. It can be difficult "breaking up" with your stylist, but if you aren't 100% happy then you need to be somewhere else. You don't have the money to waste to be unhappy. The beauty (no pun intended) of getting your hair done or getting a facial or getting a massage is that it is all about YOU!!!! You deserve to look and feel good, so if you aren't satisfied then move on. It's that simple.

Faux Hair, Faux Pas?

2010-01-13T19:42:00.002-05:00

A reader asked about weaves -- should she or shouldn't she? Since I have never personally had a weave, I cannot offer firsthand knowledge on the topic. However, I know people that have/had extensions, and I have witnessed firsthand the aftermath of a bad weave. In recent years Hollywood has glamorized the use of hair extensions and weaves. Celebrities like Jessica Simpson and Paris Hilton actually hawk their own line of fake hair. The allure of full, thick, long hair has women running to the nearest salon to get their hometown version of lucious, celebrity-inspired locks. However, ladies beware of the dangers of this too-good-to-be-true quick fix.

Weaves and extensions can be extremely expensive not to mention extremely damaging to your natural hair. A good wave can range in the thousands. To achieve the most natural look you will need to use real human hair which can be very costly. There is also maintenance which requires an additional expense. Sure you can go out and get a cheap weave, but cheap looking faux hair just looks tacky and trashy.

Weaves can also destroy your natural hair. Many weaves are sewn or glued into your existing hair. This can cause breaking, splitting and drying of your natural hair. There are plenty of photos of celebrities out there caught with bald spots and thinning areas becaue of their weaves. Lindsay Lohan is a great example!!! Remember when Britney Spears shaved her head because her weave was damaging her hair so badly??? Her current weave is even worse than before she shaved her head, and it's just sickening to watch a young woman sabotage their natural beauty!!!

I was on a flight to Los Angeles with Paris Hilton and I took a picture of the back of her head because her weave was so matted and she had noticeable bald spots. She had an obvious weave despite her short style which is probably because her natural hair is so thin from years of overstyling ( See picture below).

In my opinion, you are better off saving your money by getting regular trims to keep your healthy and to promote strong growth (less split ends = better hair growth) and getting deep conditioning treatments. With the proper upkeep and products you can have gorgeous hair.

If you are really craving longer, fuller hair for a special occasion then I suggest finding human hair clip-on extensions. They are easy to use and with proper styling they blend well with your natural hair. Your hair stylist should be able to assist you in putting them in if you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself. Clip-ons shouldn't damage your hair and you can spare yourself the expense and committment of a weave!!!

One Last Thing ...

2010-01-12T20:33:00.006-05:00

I recently ordered the "American Fashion Cookbook" -- a cookbook full of designers' fav recipes. My love of cooking and my passion for fashion in one place!!! Fab!!! I cannot wait for it to come in! Stay tuned!

P.S. My idol, Diane von Furstenberg is featured in the book as she is the current President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America --- ooo la la !!!

http://tinyurl.com/yks6sc7

Random Thoughts

2010-01-12T20:21:00.000-05:00

Tonight's post will showcase my most random thoughts ... here goes ...

So, a few weeks ago I was sitting in court waiting for my case to be called and I was talking to one of the court officers. She was telling me how another court employee (who is from Hong Kong and thin as a toothpick!!!) lives on green tea. She went on to tell me that it just flushes out your body of toxins and excess water. I had also read this myself, and immediately went back to the office and started chugging. I did my own research and learned that you can burn 70 calories a day drinking 3-5 cups of green tea. I have been drinking about 3-5 cups a day for 2 weeks and I am retaining less water and experiencing less digestive discomfort than in the past. The unique, natural properties of green detoxify the body and boost the immune system. The ancient practice of using teas to cleanse the digestive system really does work! I recommended drinking a de-caf blend after 5:00 pm to avoid sleep disruption. I take my tea with a bit of honey and Splenda. Green tea is best without milk or cream. Enjoy!

I have received a lot of feedback about my post on Moroccan oil so I wanted to elaborate on my thoughts on this miracle product to ensure that you can get the most out it and see results quicker. Don't waste your money on the Moroccan oil mask. You can use the traditional oil to make a mask which produces the same results. Here's how to do it -- wet hair in the shower or tub. Generously apply the oil from the ends to midway up your scalp (do not put on or near your roots). Take a towel and wrap around your head, tucking all of your hair into the towel. Let the oil set in your hair under the towel for 15-20 minutes. Comb out and put it in a clip. Sleep on it and wash your hair thoroughly in the morning. Do this at night before bed, otherwise you will look like a hot mess with super oily hair!!! This is an overnight treatment, intensive repair treatment.

Tonight is night 5 of my lash serum test run. I am definitely noticing a difference in length and I am eager to see how far this stuff takes my lashes!!! I apply the serum in the morning and at night. I am also using the primer (which contains the serum) under my mascara in the morning. This routine seems to be working without any irritation or side effects.

Lastly, I have been asked about dry shampoo -- do I use it and if so, what kind do I use? The answer is "yes" I do in fact use dry shampoo in between shampoos. I've tried several brands, but my favorite by far is the Ojon aerosol spray. It is super easy to apply and blends nicely. It gives your hair an instant boost by lifting oil away from the roots. Amazing! Ojon hair products are available at Sephora.

Comments

2010-01-11T22:50:00.000-05:00

I have opened up comments to everyone. Please share your thoughts, questions and ideas in the comment sections at the bottom of each post. I look forward to your feedback. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams! X

90 Cal Margarita -- Who Knew?!?!?!

2010-01-11T18:45:00.000-05:00

Every women knows that cocktails pack major empty calories. I am always searching for a new, fun, delicious low-cal cocktail ideas but have yet to really find one that actually tastes good. One of my favorite drinks is a classic margarita, however margaritas are loaded with sugar and calories -- one margarita can contain as many as 800 calories!!!!! Well ladies your prayers have been answered - Bethenny Frankel of Real Housewives fame (she is also a natural food chef) concocted a margarita that is not short on taste (and not overly sweet) and contains only 90 calories per cocktail!!!! I was a bit skeptical upon hearing about the drink because frankly it sounded too good to be true. However, I asked myself how bad could it really be. So, I found a local retailer and bought it. I was instantly hooked and proceeded to drink an entire bottle -- this stuff is amazing!!!! It contains all natural ingredients without heavy sugar additives with blue agave tequila. It is only available select retailers but the website provides a convenient store tracker. Simply enter your zipcode and a list of participating retailers will pop up. I hope all you margarita lovers out there try this -- you will not be disappointed!!!!

Jeggings!!!!

2010-01-10T19:33:00.000-05:00

My absolute favorite new trend is Joe's Jeggings ... The comfort and fit of leggings with the look of skinny jeans -- sheer genius!!!!! Joe's Jeans has always been on the cutting edge of denim -- they were one of the first premium denim brands to bring you boyfriend jeans. They offer over 70 different washes and styles of jeggings and they are all priced under $100!!!! Now anyone can own a pair of premium denim without breaking the bank.

These fit incredily well, creating a very streamlined look that not everyone can achieve with skinny jeans. They fit under tall boots without looking bunchy (I love pairing mine with thigh high boots for an ultra sexy look). They will transition well from season to season -- wear them right now with boots or Uggs and in the spring they will look fab with flats or pumps. Come summer, they will amp up a wifebeater and flip flops ensemble.

Nordstrom has the largest selection of Joe's Jeggings that I have come across. Many of the styles have a convenient inside zipper at the ankle which just enhances their versatility -- you can adjust how skinny you'd like to make them. They run from XS-XL ... they run true to size and do shrink a bit in the wash.

Hudson also does a jeggings line, but I am not a fan of Hudson jeans. I really just do not like how Hudson jeans fit.

Trial and Error

2010-01-10T16:47:00.001-05:00

Beauty really is a science, and finding new and innovative ways to enhance your beauty require trial and error. As I mentioned earlier, I have very short lashes. I have been intrigued by the lashing growing serums currently available. Many of them are expensive and I am not willing to waste $100+ on a new trend that may or may not work. I bought the L'Oreal lash boosting serum and the lash boosting primer. It boasts results in as little as two weeks by helping extend the lifetime of your lashes, causing them to grow longer. I've been using it for three days now and I can actually see a subtle change in the length of my lashes. I will keep you all posted on my progress. You can purchase the primer and serum in a special promotional package for $25. Here's hoping that the cheaper, drug store product can deliver the same results as the expensive spa brands!!!!

Let the trial and error begin on the latest lash growing products! Stay tuned!

My 10 Best Beauty Buys

2010-01-10T15:46:00.000-05:00

1. Moroccan Oil -- I was introduced to this product by Gisele's (yes, Gisele Bundchen) stylist. I booked an appointment with famed stylist, Pini Swissa, at his Newbury Street salon and upon examining my hair he immediately recommended that his assistant use Moroccan oil on me. The results after that first time use were amazing. My hair was bursting with shine and was soft to the touch. I have very wavy, fairly coarse hair. I have spent thousands of dollars on hair products over the years and this is truly the most amazing thing I've ever used. Clinically proven to actually mend split ends, this antioxidant packed potion is all natural and AFFORDABLE. One travel sized bottle (which last 3-4 months) costs around $14.00. I recommend using a dime to quarter sized amount (depending on how long/thick your hair is) as soon as you get out of the shower when your hair is dripping wet. Start at the roots and works your way mid-way up your scalp. Avoid using near your roots. If you have bangs or long front layers works the oil through the ends of those front pieces. My hair has never looked and felt better and this is the ONLY styling product I use. Moroccan oil is available at authorized retailers (generally upscale salons) or online.

2. NARS Bronzer in Laguna - Bronzer is a must have for every women, regardless of skin tone. A good bronzer will highlight your bone structure and enhance your features. It will also give you a healthy, tawny glow year round. I have tried many bronzers over the years and this is my tried and true favorite. NARS products have long been a staple among makeup artists, models and celebrities. Their bronzers boast unparalleled staying power and provide a deep brown, bronzed look instead of the orange-y hue that many other bronzers leave behind. I recommend the Laguna shade because it works with most skin colors. You can control the depth of your bronzed look by contouring and playing with the amount of product that works for you. NARS cosmetics are available at Sephora, Bloomingdales, Saks and Nordstrom. They are also available online.

3. MAC Cream Blush in Fabulush - MAC is the go-to brand for the world's best makeup artists. Offering a seemingly limitless palette of color and sparkle, MAC cosmetics are very affordable and user friendly. MAC offers are range of blush choices but I prefer the cream blushes. They give a more natural look and are more malleable in terms of application. A cream blush gives a dewy, fresh glow. Blush is an instant cheekbone maker. Proper application of a good blush will create or enhance high cheekbones. To achieve this effect, I recommend applying the cream blush with clean fingers starting at the apples of your cheeks and moving upwards towards your temples. Remember a little goes a longgggg way. Less is more when it comes to blush. I recommend the Fabulush shade because its a universal shade that works well with any skin tone. It definitely packs staying power as well. A good translucent powder will also take your blush the extra distance.

4. Buxom Lips - This is truly a miracle worker!!!! I received a sample of this amazing lip boosting gloss at Sephora and was instantly hooked. Made by Bare Escentuals, Buxom lips comes in gloss or full color. I prefer the gloss because the line offers a myriad of color choices. i like to mix up my lip color depending on my mood, outfit or the time of the year. What makes this product truly amazing, is its ability to INSTANTLY plump your lips. I have naturally plump lips and this just makes them REALLY pop. If you are thin-lipped then this is definitely for you. You will feel a slight tingle upon application but it is not uncomfortable like other products that can really sting. Buxom lips are available exclusively at Sephora and they offer a sampler which is a great bargain and offers a great variety of hues.

5. Tom's Natural Deodorant - Recent studies have linked the aluminum in antiperspirants to breast cancer. However tenuous that link may be, the thought of chemicals seeping into my lymph nodes just doesn't sit well with me. I use Tom's Natural deodorant because it contains 100% all natural ingredients and does not contain aluminum. It provides great protection all day long and smells of sweet lavender. I have been using it for years and I absolutely love it. Tom's Natural products are sold at most drug stores.

6. Fiberwig Mascara - Japan's #1 selling mascara is now available in the US exclusively at Sephora. I have tried every kind of mascara out there. I have very short eyelashes and I crave that long, lush lashed look. This mascara literally paints on false lashes without the goopy mess that traditional mascaras usually create. The formula is made of a fiber-like pigment that goes on easily and it allows you to build your desired length. This increases the length of my eyelashes by about 200%. This will not create a lot of volume, so I recommend using your favorite volumizing mascara over it. Fiberwig retails at Sephora for aorund $22.00 and it is worth every penny!!!!!!

7. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler - The Japanese powerhouse cosmetic company never ceases to amaze its loyal followers. The Shu Uemura lash curler is THE lash curler on the market. It create beautifully lifted and curled lashes in seconds without the dreaded pinching. It is also gentler than other lash curlers and you will notice less lash loss. This must-have tool is available at Sephora, Nordstrom, Saks, etc. You will never use another curler again!

8. Christian Dior Bronze Self-Tanners for Body and Face - This mild but eye popping formula from one of the world's leading fashion and cosmetic houses will be sure to amaze. Unlike other self-tanners, this product does not have that terrible after-smell (my boyfriend refuses to let me use anything else because he hates the smell that much!). It goes on smoothly and evenly providing instant bronzing and shimmer. The face formula is not oily or heavy and will not clog pores. It also provides a healthy does of moisture and collagen elastin to enhance the suppleness of your skin. You can find Dior self-tanner bronzers at Sephora.

9. Yves St. Laurent Touche Eclat - this is an absolute must have. This revolutionary product instantly highlights and conceals shadows and dark spots. The patented formula highlights your natural beauty while blurring stubborn imperfections. I recommend going one shade lighter with this product, especially when using around the brow line and eye areas. This really makes your eyes pop and is a great pick-me-up after a late night. You look rested and refreshed when applied properly. This product is available at high-end makeup counters and Sephora. This is a staple for ALL makeup artists. I kid you not.

10. MAC Angled Brow Brush #208 - this is perhaps one of the most versatile beauty tools you can buy. This brush is cut at the perfect angle, allowing you to easily line your eyes with a shadow or potted paint. It also works as fantastic brow brush, allowing great precision when filling in brows or creating a deep, full dramatic brow look (think Kim Kardashian). This little tool, which retails around $25.00, can instantly transform your face by allowing you to create a multitude of different looks with your eyes and brows. This is one brush you can't go without.

It was very difficult narrowing down my favorite items to just 10, but this list will help you create a flawless, natural look. Less is always more and the right products will allow you to achieve that effortless look of real, radiant beauty.