December 2009 Archives

We like to save money in every way possible these days, but don’t want to skimp on results. Thankfully, drugstore brands have been stepping up their game and we are more than willing to give these products their fair chance. Neutrogena Ageless Restoratives 5 Minute Facial is a product we had to try as soon as we discovered it. This at-home peel is formulated with exclusive enzymes and micro-exfoliants to gently stimulate surface skin, improving cell renewal. Over the course of a few weeks, this 1-step wonder delivered the improvement to our skin’s texture and clarity, at a fraction of the cost of a visit to a professional’s chair. $25, cvs.com

 

Just as hot temperatures can be harsh on skin, the same is true of the intense chill of winter. When cold, dry air leaves our skin feeling thirsty, a product that contains essential fatty acids and moisturizing oils is the perfect choice to give it the hydration that it needs. Our new favorite, Elemental Herbology Body Souffle Winter Body Hydrator ($37, spacenk.com), is an intense moisurizer that soothes and protects our skin from the elements and is suitable for those with sensitive skin and eczema.

The holiday season is exciting and fun, but unfortunately it’s also very stressful. Now that it’s over, we want nothing more than to take the time to calm our thoughts and put ourselves in a time out. We find that products infused with relaxing ingredients like lavender, green tea, vanilla and Shea butter work wonders to soothe not only this time of year, but anytime we need to unwind.

Rachel McAdams appeared at the London premiere of her new film, Sherlock Holmes, looking nothing short of glamorous with a texturized braid to compliment her Grecian-inspired gown. We found out how to create this look from the hairstylist behind this look, Sebastian Stylist Design Team Member Thomas Dunkin.

Dunkin shares his styling tips for recreating a look like Rachel’s at home:

1. Start by applying a volumizing product to wet hair.

2. Blow dry in sections, and pin each section in medium and large sized velcro rollers throughout whole head and allow to set for 5-10 minutes.

3. Allow to cool then take down rollers, and spray hair with a dry shampoo for added texture.

4. Emulsify a small dab of Sebastian Professional Microweb Fiber ($16, amazon.com) between palms and run through top of hair. Backcomb front section and manipulate for height and volume. Secure with pins.

5. French braid bottom half of hair starting behind left ear and pin random remaining pieces into braid for haphazard, playful positioning.

6. Finish the look with a medium-hold hairspray for tousled movement and controlled hold.

Pantone recently announced their pick for color of the year, setting off a flurry of tweets on Twitter and excited reaction from the beauty and fashion-loving set. The color creating the buzz is 15-559 Turquoise. Turquoise was chosen because it is bold yet soothing; it produces thoughts of exotic locations, and is universally flattering on both men and women. Because of its versatility, Turquoise also makes a gorgeous accent color in the form of jewelry, purses, shoes, hair accessories and even nail polish.