Hey everyone! It’s time for another wild and crazy beauty-filled column of “Fridays with Felicia”. Buckle up!

I celebrated Bastille Day with Phyto Universe. If you have never visited the botanical sanctuary that is Phyto Universe, you are truly missing out on something special. The urban oasis is home to over 9,000 live tropical plants from all over the world. The 3,000 square foot vertical garden must be seen to be believed. If you are a hair care fanatic like me, a Phyto hair analysis and treatment is a must.

Now back to Phyto’s Bastille Day celebration…

I ran into fellow Beauty Writer, Kristin Booker of Fashion Style Beauty online mag.

While celebrating Bastille Day at Phyto Universe I learned of a soon to be released collection of intensive hair treatments. You all know that I do my own hair (relaxer, blow outs, trimming, etc) so I perked up during the hair mask presentation. The collection is set to launch in September but you know I would never make you wait that long! I’ve got the exclusive deets for you NOW…that’s just how I roll

Formula PHYTOKARITE is for Ultra Dry Hair and has my name written all over it. The newly re-formulated treatment is ultra-rich and intended to provide intense  hydration, nutrition, and deep-down repair. With Shea Butter, Pastel Oil, Wood Cellulose, and Castor and Colza Oils, effective repair is possible from the first application. Now that’s what I am talking about! We love immediate results, right?

Formula PHYTOCITRUS is for Color-treated Hair. It is formulated to nourish and boost radiance. Rich in citrus fruits, Phytocitrus seals cuticles to lock in color intensity and prevent fading. Sweet almond proteins and illipe butter work to deeply nourish and restructure the hair fiber.

Formula PHYTOJOBA is for Dry Hair that is in need of intense hydration and regeneration. Enriched in jojoba oil and guar gum the mask melts into a luxurious hair softener that works to instantly to moisturize and detangle. Angelica root extract and sweet orange essential oil gives hair shine and vitality. Hair is said to regain softness and elasticity.

Formula PHYTODENSIUM is ideal for fine or thinning hair. This anti-aging mask claims to thicken and strengthen hair. It is formulated with grapeseed and black currant seed oils which naturally soften and regenerate hair. The botanical protein complex increases hair’s thickness and density

The entire hair mask collection ($38) contains NO Silicones, NO Parabens, NO Phtalates.

Lastly, I have a summer time hair care tip to share from Julien Farel (Julien Farel Salon) to me, to you:

Tip from Julien Farel: If your hair is color treated and you are prepping for a day at the beach, preserve your color by wetting your hair and applying a think coating of conditioner. This process adds a layer of protection between your hair color and the sun. I am trying this the next time I hit Cape May!

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Last week I posted pictures from a wonderful charity gala for Haiti that I had the pleasure of attending. Apparently the Street Style Team for Essence.com was in the house as well. They spied me in my orange off the shoulder frock and gold sparkly shoes and included my picture in their “Grown and Sexy Nights” piece. How cool is that? Well here’s my 10 seconds of paparazzi fame…and the link to the actual post. The comments were all really sweet and made my day. One comment in particular was from a man who offered to take me out, BUT only if I wear the orange dress. Hilarious stuff! (but probably not as hilarious to Mr. Benson:))

And oh, I should probably properly quote my outfit for the record. When I was asked “who are you wearing” I think the party was too loud for the photographer to hear my complete response…so the description the website of what I am wearing is not one hundred percent accurate. The dress is Jay Godfrey. I scored it at a sample sale. I’m wearing a tiny gold JCrew waist belt that transformed the dress from a tent to a strategically cinched drop waist. The shoes are a patent sparkly gold Christian Louboutin slingback. The clutch is a nameless snakeskin vintage find. http://photos.essence.com/galleries/street_style_melkey#448051

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Here on ThisThatBeauty we discuss all sorts of products and treatments that help to keep your skin beautiful. By now you know that treatment products can take many forms…from serums, to different types of peels, to more technologically advanced tools like my beloved Clarisonic, or a device like this by TRIA Beauty.

I recently learned of (and experienced) a beautification and relaxation process that I simply had to share here as part of “Fridays with Felicia”.

HALO/AIR is the first ever U.S. Salt Rooms that are made completely out of salt mined 300 meters below ground from European salt caves.  Salt therapy treatments are touted as being effective in helping those who suffer from respiratory conditions, common colds or even skin conditions such as acne.  A while back I covered a skin care system that uses the power of salt to treat acne, so the idea of visiting a salt room doesn’t sound so far off.

It is my understanding that Salt Rooms are already popular in other parts of the world but HALO/ AIR is the first facility of its kind in the United States. That’s right yall….ThisThatBeauty brings you the exclusive scoop on whats current in beauty!

The salt that is used at HALO/ AIR is mined from European salt caves 300 meters below ground. The Halo/Air Salt Room treatment uses unique proprietary equipment and room design which creates a dry salt aerosol microclimate. The patented HaloGenerator creates humidity, filters the air, and grinds and atomizes the salt into air particles for the rooms.

Dont allow the word “particles” to frighten you as the particles are breathable.  While going in for the treatment I was not certain what to expect. Think: sauna.  You may enter the salt room fully clothed. The only wardrobe change required is a covering for your feet.While in your private little salt cave, you may relax, nap, or watch TV. I chose to catch up on ol Kathy Griffin and her “D-List” shenanigans. Oh Kathy….

Here I am after an hour in my little salt cave. I left the salt room feeling more refreshed, at ease, and my skin really did seem to glow! Is salt treatment for you? Well here’s what I have to say. Why don’t you take a moment to pop into HALO/ AIR’s minimalist chic Chelsea location and talk with the helpful staff. I am certain that they can help you figure out if the treatment is right for you. I will say that you probably need more than one visit to see significant improvement…so here’s another upside to stopping by to visit HALO/ AIR. When you stop by, you can pick up a brochure, which on the back offers you a free session with the purchase of your first. So that’s two sessions for the price of one. Sounds like a great deal to me…and a great way to try the service twice and really gauge the efficacy.  Good luck!

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Hey everyone, don’t forget to enter my contest to win one of three Rio De Keratin Treatment kits. Click here for the full contest deets.

Stay cool..this weekend is going to be a scorcher here on the east coast!

xo.

Felicia

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Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Today’s deal will get you a $10 gift certificate for just $4. Load up on cones, cups, toppings, ice cream sandwiches and other frozen goodies at a 60% discount that will make you feel cool and refreshed all summer long. (I’m so bummed I’m in New Jersey today and can not take advantage of this refreshing deal..woe is me)

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

http://tartecosmetics.com/contest.php?id=20

CLICK AWAY and WIN!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

The sweepstakes will run thru December 31, 2010

http://burtsbees.promo.eprize.com/acai/?affiliate_id=homepage

One grand prize winner will win a one-week trip for two to one of three Brazilian Rainforest destinations. The all-expense-paid trip includes all transportation, lodging, flights, food and beverages, as well as eco-tours, activities, and excursions. Discover the lush, green haven that inspired Burt’s Bees’ Rejuvenating Lip Balm in one of these exotic Brazilian Rainforest destinations:

• Tropical Manaus – A luxury Brazilian eco-resort located at the gateway to the majestic Amazon rainforest

• Ariau Amazon Towers – The largest treetop hotel in the world with luxury accommodations in the middle of the Brazilian Amazon

• Jungle Othon Palace Boat – A hotel boat in the Amazon designed to offer comfort and entertainment as it sails down the Rio Negro

To enter to win the grand prize trip and other Burt’s Bees prizes, just visit burtsbees.com to sign up through the end of the year. When you tell a friend to enter, you can gain additional contest entries—the more friends you tell, the better your chance of winning.

Good luck!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Starting May 4, customers who visit www.beauty.com/lelarose and spend $100 or more will receive a custom Lela Rose clutch along with 16 deluxe samples. The slim linen purse features the signature feather painted Lela Rose print from her spring 2010 collection. Accented with a handsome wooden closure, the clutch unfolds to reveal a bright citrine lining and two zippered compartments.

With a value of $135, this chic limited-edition clutch is perfect for carrying beauty essentials while also doubling as a stylish accessory or gift for your best girl’s upcoming birthday or bridal shower! Of the one-of-a-kind clutch, Lela Rose has this to say:

“I love incorporating elements from the collection into these bags. The linen clutch is a fresh, lightweight spin on the cosmetic travel bag that women can use whether they’re packing for a weekend away or just stepping out for the afternoon.”

Each Lela Rose Feather Painted Linen Beauty Clutch arrives with 16 deluxe samples from some of the top brands in prestige beauty including:

1. tarte™ emphasEYES High Definition Eye Pencil, Black
2. Origins Checks and Balances™ Frothy Face Wash
3. NUXE Crème Fraiche™ 24 Hour Moisture Emulsion
4. Jack Black® Supreme Cream™ Triple Cushion™ Shave Lather
5. Bliss® FatGirlSlim™
6. Caudalie Vinoperfect Night Correcting Cream
7. ARCONA™ Reozone 40
8. PHYTO Phyto 7 Daily Hydrating Botanical Cream
9. CLEAN™ Simply Soap Eau de Parfum, Roller Ball
10. Laura Geller Travel-Size Kabuki Brush
11. Jane Iredale Just Kissed™ Lip Plumper, Madrid
12. Nick Chavez Beverly Hills Amazon Infinity Mist
13. Borghese Insta-Firm Platinum
14. Urban Decay DeSlick in a Tube Mattifying Gel
15. Rene Furterer Volumea Shampoo
16. Dr. Brandt® Pores No More® Pore Refiner

Get your Beauty Booty on at BEAUTY.com/lelarose

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Just because it’s that time of the month doesn’t mean you can’t rock skinny jeans from Les Halles. Just make sure you’re carrying the right accessory, like the Tampax Compak Pearl, with its 40 percent-smaller applicator (compared to the leading plastic applicator tampon).

To prove how pocket friendly the Compak Pearl is, get free shipping (which is automatically applied) on your Les Halles purchases from Swirl through May 5, courtesy of Tampax — a doubly sweet deal considering Swirl has the retrotastic jeans for 60 percent off retail.

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Happy Friday folks! I hope you’re planning on a fun weekend. The weather man is predicting 80+ degrees for the east coast! If your toes aren’t quite sandal ready, fret not. Reach for Np2 professional nail lacquer, a unique two-in-one nail product that pairs nail treatment and color in one sleek package. Np2 consists of two bottles that click together. The top coat is formulated with a nail hardener and nourishing treatment that extends the life of your mani/pedi for up to two weeks! True story…up to two weeks!

Once your toes are sandal ready, I highly recommend checking out Faryl Robin shoes. You all know that I love a mean shoe game (hello small collection of Louboutins), but comfort scores big point in my book. Faryl Robin is known for pairing modern style with never-ending comfort. I recently scored two pairs of Faryl Robin wedges that have quickly become my go-to shoes. If you crave trend inspired style and cozy comfort, check out Faryl Robin.

I’m back on my MINX nail game! I had the opportunity to sit down with TracyLee Percival (@LuxebyTracyLee) at Ion Studio (41 Wooster Street, NYC) and try out a new MINX look. TracyLee never disappoints. As a freelance and editorial nail stylist, TracyLee brings fashion experience to clients through her diversification of techniques. Here’s my MINX by TracyLee. I’m killing it, right?

You all know that I’ve been hopelessly devoted to Kevyn Aucoin THE MASCARA for quite some time now. Its been my holy grail for years! Well Kevyn, there’s a new mascara in town that’s giving my lashes unprecedented lift! For the last week, Anastasia Lifting Mascara

has been giving my lashes life! Anastasia attributes the lifting effect to the formula which contains hard waxes to build lashes and synthetic polymers to give lashes body and volume. Well as the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Check out my picture to the right. I chose to show my left eye which has very wimpy lashes compared to my right eye, which is a bit fuller. Look at how Anastasia Lifting Mascara plumps up my wimpy left eye lashes!

All week I’ve been trotting around town sporting the most eco-friendly/ eco-chic watch I’ve ever seen! Sprout is made of bamboo, corn resin, mineral crystal, and organic cotton. The battery is mercury free and the entire watch is completely bio degradable. How about that! Sprout retails for $30, but Savvy Frugalistas can find Sprout on sites like KOHLS.com and Sears.com for slightly less. Sprout comes in a wide range of shades. Mine is army “green”…very appropriate, no?

If you’re a lot like me and recognize the need to go green but feel overwhelmed or uncertain of where to start, I would like to suggest a book. Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion and Beauty is a great education on combining style and substance. This lavishly illustrated highly informative green beauty and fashion bible explains basics like the difference between fair trade and organically grown. Style Naturally shows you how to make informed choices when shopping. Summer Rayne, the author with the most perfect name for the topic of sustainable living, highlights some of her favorite designers (Stella McCartney is one) and eco-friendly brands like Levi’s Loomstate and Aveda that have made earth-friendly materials and sustainable practices a priority. With over 300 glossy photos of products and eco-stories, I promise you will not be bored!

As I go about my daily errands, I find it particularly helpful and ecologically responsible to travel with my Oboe Bag (Oboe stands for “One Bag One Earth”). It folds up small enough to fit in the palm of my hand and can be tossed in my purse. You should see me at the cash register when its time to bag my purchases…feeling all proud and socially responsible as I tell the cashier “Oh I don’t need a bag”. Its my little way of saving the earth…one bag at a time.

Confession Time: I have formed a mild addition to Essence of Vali sleep products. For the last week the soothing blend of essences of lavender flowers, cedar wood, marjoram leaves and ylang/ylang petals have been my private night time sanctuary. A few sprays of Sleep Soothing Mist on my pillow and I’m out like a light within minutes. Such a blissful (and affordable [$7]) sensory experience…ahhhh! Sweet dreams indeed.

Happy Friday everyone!

xo,

Felicia

PS: Dont forget your chance to win tickets to the The Makeup Show and a Beauty Wardrobe from Purple Lab and Closet Couture!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Purple Lab is partnering with Closet Couture to bring you a styling contest introducing the new Purple Lab makeup collection. Your challenge? Style outfits inspired by Purple Lab’s line of fresh, chic and trend setting double-duty beauty products.

Now through May 1, 2010, members can style outfits using Purple Lab’s favorite brands on Closet Couture. The creators of the top THREE outfits that best represent Purple Lab beauty (as selected by an expert panel from Purple Lab) will win Purple Lab Swag. First prize will win Purple Lab beauty products valued at $300, second prize will win products valued at $100 and third prize will win products valued at $50.

What would you wear with your Purple Lab makeup?

To Enter:

Follow Purple Lab on Closet Couture to read more about the collection and get access to the closet.

Make an outfit featuring at least one beauty product from Purple Lab’s collection and anything else from your closet or others.

Save the outfit and include “Purple Lab” in the title of the outfit.

Enter as many times as you’d like. Purple Lab will pick the top three outfits that they like best! Winners will be announced the week of May 10. May the chicest style win!

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Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

• Contest open through May 8
• I’m giving away two tickets. Each winner may bring a guest.
• One entry per household
• Residents of anywhere on the planet may enter
• You must be a Twitter follower of @ThisThatBeauty, so when leaving a comment to enter the contest, PLEASE leave your Twitter handle and email address.

For everyone else, tickets start at $45. Click HERE for deets.

A word from The Makeup Show…..

Join beauty authorities and brands who help shape the way we look and create makeup today including: Charlie Green, Joanna Schlip, Eugenia Weston, Eve Pearl, Tegan Taylor (Avatar), Louie Zakarian (Saturday Night Live), and a rare appearance by MAKE UP FOR EVER creator Dany Sanz.

The Makeup Show NYC features more than 60 pro-makeup industry companies including: MAKE UP FOR EVER, Inglot, Temptu Pro, Crown Brush, Alcone, Smashbox, Becca Cosmetics, Dermalogica, Embryolisse, Eve Pearl Cosmetics, Face Atelier, Graftobian, Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Korres Natural Products, L’Oreal, M.A.C Cosmetics, Mai Couture, Mario Badescu Skin Care, Naked Cosmetics, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, Senna Cosmetics, Shu Uemura, Three Custom Color, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, and more.

May 16 & May 17, 2010
9am-6pm daily

Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th Street, NYC

www.themakeupshow.com

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

As the host you’ll have testers of many products featured on-air and will automatically be entered into a sweepstakes for the chance to win a gift basket valued at over three hundred dollars. Be the first to try these exciting new products!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.