I gotta keep it 100 with y’all…I’m kind of tripping. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of beauty greats who have appeared on Afrobella Radio (i.e. Sam Fine, Maybeline Model Tomiko Fraser, Danessa Myricks, Lisa Price – Creator  of Carol’s Daughter…)

Tune in and and show me love!..help me ease my jitters:)

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/afrobellaradio

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.

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My hair is dry and chemically straightened, so, after washing and deep conditioning, I usually add a leave-in conditioner and a bit of oil to my scalp and ends. I also use a water based moisturizer every two to three days. This is my summer routine – in the winter it gets crazy. All of the moisture that I add to my hair makes humidity the enemy, so, I was intrigued when I read about Avon’s Lotus Shield Anti-Frizz Treatment.

A few bloggers were recently invited to Avon’s research facility in Suffern, NY, to learn about Lotus Shield. We first saw the test of the technology on a regular piece of printed paper. One side was treated with the Lotus Shield technology and the other was not. When water was dropped on the side of the paper treated with Lotus Shield, it beaded up, on the other side of the paper the water soaked in.

My intrigue quickly turned to excitement. I wanted to see how Lotus Shield would perform on actual hair. Enter the lovely volunteer below. She has naturally curly hair that was washed and blow-dried. One side was treated with Lotus Shield before drying.

I detected a slight difference in the two sides of the hair even before the lovely volunteer was subjected to humidity chamber that had about 97% humidity. Once the volunteer emerged from the humidity chamber, it was clear which side had been treated with Lotus Shield and which side had not. Dramatic…is it not?

The main ingredient in Lotus Shield is cyclopentasiloxane, a light weight silicone that is used as a conditioner, delivery agent, solvent and lubricant. Other ingredients include ethyhexyl methoxycinnamate, commonly used to reflect and scatter UV rays, acrylates/dimethicone copolymer, a silicone enhanced coating agent that allows product to stick to hair. This formula is based on the water repelling properties of the lotus plant but does not seem to contain any part of the plant itself. Avon’s mix of silicones, polymers and other ingredients, successfully forms a moisture proof barrier over hair.

My Results

On my first test of Lotus Shield, I applied it to half of my hair. I washed, conditioned, added Lotus Shield, then my leave-in conditioner and my oil (side note: Lotus Shield has tremendous detangling power.) I blow-dried my hair, then hit it with the flat iron. That day I went out into mild to moderate humidity (according to the weather report). At the end of the day the Lotus Shield protected section of my hair was noticeably smoother than the other side. On day two I noticed that the side of my hair that had the Lotus Shield was quite a bit drier than the other. This makes sense because if it’s locking out moisture (humidity) it is also locking out any other moisture product I put in my hair after the Lotus Shield has been applied.

On my second application I used the Lotus Shield after I added all of my other products. This didn’t work as well as when I followed the usage directions but my hair wasn’t as dry.

Lotus Shield does work to reduce frizz and flyaways caused by humidity. However, if you have dry hair and you use moisture enhancing products, try playing around with how you use the product until you find a product combination and application routine that works for you. Please also note that this product is a difficult to get off the hair and it may take several trips to the shampoo basin to completely remove it from your hair. Avon’s Lotus Shield Anti-Frizz Treatment is being introduced for $9.99 but the regular price is $12.00 for a two-ounce bottle.

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.

ThisThatBeauty Editor In Chief, Felicia, assigned me to cover ELF’s Fall 2010 and holiday collection launch. Recalling my earlier exposure to the one dollar brand at my local Tarjay, I eagerly (read sarcasm in “eagerly”) accepted the assignment. Thanks Felicia! However, my sarcasm regarding ELF pretty much ends here! At a recent press event I had the opportunity to go beyond the price tag (and beyond my personal snooty thoughts about one dollar makeup)….and boy was I surprised!

The holiday themed event was decked out with a white Christmas tree and the frozen hot chocolate flowed freely.

Andrea Dunaway, creative director at E.L.F., started off by giving a little background information on the company and the brand. E.L.F. was started by Joseph Shamah, who had the “belief that innovative technology, quality ingredients and superb delivery systems should not be limited to prestige retailers and every woman should have the opportunity to experience luxury cosmetics without sacrificing her budget.” This mantra, if you will, led to the one dollar price point. E.L.F. has a full line of cosmetics for eyes, lips face and more recently — a line of products for bath, body and nails.

Declaring that products are one dollar but then delivering a lackluster product would not be a very good business plan, so, I set out to test some of E.L.F’s signature one dollar products, as well as some of the other moderately priced cosmetics included in their 2010 Holiday and Fall collections.

Shimmer Pencil

My favorite thing about this pencil, apart from the $1 price tag, is that the sharpener is in the cap – a genius move. The pencil glided on effortlessly and added just the right amount of shimmer to make my eyes pop. After about two hours I had a bit of eyeliner migration, which led me to use a primer on my upper lid the next time I used the pencil. On my second application with the primer, the liner held up well and I even got a few compliments. Woot woot!

Natural Matte Shadow

The shadow comes as loose powder and has richer pigments than I expected for $3. I generally add primer to my lid before I apply loose eye shadow, I think that’s because when I first started using loose pigment shadows I got it everywhere. I used E.L.F’s eyeshadow brush for application and it worked really well. More details on the brushes below.

Holiday Collection Eyeshadow Palette

If you are a newbie to make-up and want to experiment without going broke, you can go bananas with E.L.F’s shadow palettes from their holiday collection. I tried several shades and I loved them, a few of my favorites are shown here.

Not all the colors are highly pigmented. Some will definitely require the use of primer and you may have to do some layering to get the desired result. The palettes come in three sizes:

• 100 piece ($10)
• 32 piece ($5)
• 6 piece ($3)

The best value is the 100 piece because you get each color for ten cents. How can you beat that?

Brushes

E.L.F’s brushes are made from synthetic fiber but they are extremely soft. They were designed and tested by professional makeup artists. While I have been into makeup for a long time, I never really got into using brushes (Editor butting in: Christene, how is this possible? You’re into makeup, but not brushes? Girl, we have to talk). I had one brush that I wiped and used for everything, except eyeshadow (Felicia again: I’m breaking out in hives editing this!). With E.L.F’s $30 holiday brush set, I get 11 brushes, one for every stage of my makeup application. The brushes come in a nifty waterproof case. My favorite so far is the powder brush. The set also includes a fan brush, angled foundation brush, and small smudge brush.

Nail Polish

The holiday nail polish collection is all about shimmer. The six shades, Metal Madness, Party Purple, Golden Goddess, Twinkle and Glitter Glam, all have glitter in them. I tried Twinkle on my bare nail as well as over another color. I liked it better when applied over another color. All nail polishes are $1.

Mini Palette

So, I saved the best from the holiday collection for last. If you have never tried E.L.F and you are curious about how far you can stretch your beauty buck and the quality of the products you can get for that dollar, the holiday Mini Palette is perfect for you. It includes eye shadows, blush, bronzer, lip gloss, brow powder, eyeshadow applicator, face brush and lip brush. This is also a great gift idea for someone who wants their “pretty” in sleek ultra-portable packaging. The palette retails for $15….a mere bag of shells (RIP Jackie Gleason)

Other Product Favorites

In the past I have tried a several drugstore mineral powders but that always seem to leave me looking a bit ashen or gray. I used E.L.F’s mineral booster and was in awe of the results. Coverage is minimal so it is perfect for application over my tinted moisturizer. It retails for $5 and is available at E.L.F. The lip glosses are great and they provide high gloss without being too heavy on the lips. I have oily skin and the shine eraser blotting sheets work well. According to the manufacturer they are also supposed to minimize pores, I did not notice any change in the size of my pores. Blotting sheets retail for $1.

Overall, I give E.L.F a passing grade. They offer a wide range of products and tools that are of good quality. If you try something and you don’t like it, chances are you will be out no more than a buck, plus tax.

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This post is written by ThisThatBeauty Contributor, Christene Carr. For more from Christene visit her blog www.christenecarr.com or her business website www.hairandskinjunc.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.

Well if reading fresh ThisThatBeauty once a day fails to satisfy your beauty beast within, I have a suggestion… Get all up in my bidnaz via Twitter!

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.

Lately I’ve been keeping up with the Joneses. No, not my highfalutin luxury car driving neighbors…oh no, not those Joneses…These Joneses:

I am referring to JONES magazine, the “insider’s shopping guide for women who know better.” As a woman who obviously knows better, I quickly replied “YES” to JONES magazine’s invitation to visit their NYC digs and learn more about the publication.

JONES magazine caters to fashion enthusiasts like moi, who share a penchant for what’s next! The shopping and lifestyle publication strives to be a resource for multicultural women who crave luxury, glamour, and trends.

JONESMAG.com (an incredibly robust web presence that’s managed by the Glamazon we all love to stalk – Jessica Andrews) offers a daily dose of fashion, beauty, shopping, events and travel advice.

Here is the delightful and beautiful Editor-in-Chief Tracey Ferguson as she walks a very lucky group of bloggers through the Fall preview of JONES

And here’s yours truly participating in the discussion…I’m likely talking up a storm about a recent beauty discovery.

For the complete scoop on the blogger mixer at JONES mag and exclusive pics of your favorite bloggers  in attendance, CLICK HERE

PS: Shouts to my Twitter boo @The GorgeousBlog — I bumped into her in the hall as I was leaving the JONES mag event…

With Fashion’s Night Out just ’round the corner, I want to share with you some of the spectacular events going on all around this great city of ours. Get ready for  complimentary make-up applications galore, stick straight blow outs, and lots of raffles and contests…Oh my!

Who: Thierry Mugler – Where: Sake Fifth Avenue

Thierry Mugler invites you to Saks Fifth Avenue in NYC during Fashion’s Night Out on September 10^th from 6-11pm to view the famous Motorcycle Bustier as worn by Beyoncé for her I AM.Sasha Fierce album.  This legendary couture piece was first shown in the designer’s Prêt-á-Porter Spring/Summer 1992 Collection, worn by model Niki Taylor.  The same year, it appeared in George Michael’s iconic fashion-centric, supermodel-filled, music video for his hit song “Too Funky.”  In 2008 the Motorcycle Bustier was selected for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s “Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy” exhibit in New York.  It was here that Beyoncé fell in love with the piece and Thierry Mugler. Come see this true couture display of fashion and music history while receiving a special sample of Thierry Mugler’s legendary ANGEL fragrance.  Drops of gourmand scented heaven will be dispensed from a special sculpture designed by artist Ron Arad exclusively for Thierry Mugler. The sculpture is Arad’s interpretation of Mugler’s innovative Source concept which allows you to refill your precious ANGEL star bottle without discarding, and have a more minimal environmental impact.

For all the latest news and updates follow Thierry Mugler:

Twitter: @Thierry_Mugler

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ThierryMugler

Who: Warren-Tricomi Salon – Where: The Plaza Hotel

Join the Warren-Tricomi Salon at The Plaza Hotel for complimentary hair styles and updo’s to start your Friday night off from 6-8pm. While you are at The Plaza, you can also view the CFDA Incubator Project designs throughout the Shops. Musician, Corinne Bailey Rae, will be performing an intimate concert at The Plaza’s Palm Court. Following the concert, Joel Warren, Edward Tricomi, Douglas Hannant and Frederick Anderson, co-hosted with the CFDA and Shops at the Plaza, invite you to an after party in the Terrace Room from 9 – 11pm to celebrate this night of Fashion.

Who: Votre Vu – Where: Votre Vu’s customized Airstream in the Meatpacking
District

Visit the VuBAR, Votre Vu’s customized Airstream, in the Meatpacking District on Fashion’s Night Out! After testing Vu’s French-made, botanically based skin care with a Party Primer beauty regimen, have your photograph taken on the VuBAR’s red carpet and download them for free online. To finish off your VIP Vu experience, sample refreshing Votre Vu SnapDragon from an ice luge, enjoy custom Votre Vu pastries from an on-site pastry chef and much, much more!

Who: The Plaza Beauty – Where: The Plaza Hotel (New York City)

The Plaza Beauty will offer complimentary mini-facials, hand treatments and makeup touch ups to get you ready for your Friday night out! Meet the creators of top beauty companies such as Alison Raffaele and Kimiko and receive insider tips on how to create the perfect look for fall! Enter to win a custom-made hair accessory from Lucia Tristao Hair Designs and look out for exclusive offers that night from Miriam Mirani and Diego Della Palma. Afterwards, show off your new look at a concert performed by Grammy nominated EMI artist Corinne Bailey Rae hosted in The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel

Who: Pur Minerals – Where: Duane Reade The Look Boutique (Soho) (233 Lafayette St. New York, NY)

Join celebrity makeup artist to the stars, Jackie Gomez, for complimentary makeup touch ups from 6:00pm – 8:00pm with Pur Minerals. Gifts with purchase will also be available throughout the night from 6pm-11pm.

Who: Completely Bare – Where: Completely Bare (25 Bond Street, b/w Lafayette & Bowery New York, NY)

CONNECT THE Dots
This Fashion’s Night Out, participate in a scavenger hunt-themed styling contest in multiple Soho New York-based locations called “Dots SPOTS.” Follow the clues and choose your favorite Dots pieces to create your own personalized look!

Meet back at Completely Bare and get a free Richie Rich vatoo, enjoy refreshments and have your photos taken on the pink carpet. Celebrity stylist Mia Morgan and fashion legend Richie Rich will co-host and judge your personalized looks! Winning looks will have a day of beauty and styling with Mia Morgan, a new Dots wardrobe and a trip for two to a tropical location! Proceeds will benefit the Family Justice Center, which helps victims of domestic violence put their lives back together.

Follow @Dotsfashions @completelybare @kingcollective on FaceBook and Twitter for more details.

The FNO list of retailers, designers, fashion and beauty brands is still growing! See below for a list of newly registered participants and visit www.fashionsnightout.com for more information.

• A Little Wicked
• A Man and a Woman
• ADAM
• ALDO (new locations
• AllSaints Spitalfields
• Andrew Yang & The Kouklitas at Barneys New York
• Alton Lane
• Ann Taylor
• Atelier Minyon
• Bara Boux
• Barbie
• Beyond 7
• Bio
• Black Fleece by Brooks Brothers
• Bottega Veneta
• Bump Brooklyn
• Callalilai Atlantic
• China Doll
• Chloe
• Chouchounette
• Crate + Barre
• Derek Lam
• Diptyque Bleeker street
• Donna Distefano Ltd.
• Dots (location change)
• Downtown Doghouse
• Eponymy
• Ernest & Olivia
• Fisch for the Hip
• Flight Club
• Flourish Accessories
• Forever 21
• GANT Rugger
• Generra
• Genuine Motorworks
• George Esquivel at Fratelli Rossetti Store
• Hayden-Harnett
• Helianthus
• Helmut Lang
• Henri Bendel
• In God We Trust
• In&Out Different Beauty
• Indique Hair International, Georgia’s, Polish Bar Brooklyn
• Intermix
• IRIS
• Journelle
• Kenneth Cole
• Kingdom
• Kotur at Saks Fifth Avenue
• La Petite Coquette
• Lauren Merkin
• Legacy
• Lululemon Athletica
• Lululemon Athletica Brooklyn Showroom
• Lululemon Athletica Lincoln Square
• Lululemon Athletica Soho
• Malawi
• Meatpacking District Initiative
• Meg
• Michael Angelo’s Wonderland Beauty Parlor
• Modo Eyewear
• Movado
• Nasty Pig
• Naturalizer
• Nexus
• Nigel Barker at Lord and Taylor
• Ochre
• Only Hearts
• Original Penguin
• Per-fekt Beauty at Henri Bendel
• Petit Boudoir
• Pink Slip at Grand Central Terminal
• PomPom
• POP Lounge/Burger (Ninth ave store)
• Prabal Gurang at Saks Fifth Avenue
• Prabal Gurung at The Shops at the Plaza
• Rapha Cycle Club
• Rizzoli Bookstore
• Rony Tennenbaum 1964
• SACHIN + BABI for ANKASA
• Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired by Camrindy
• Singer22
• Sphatika
• Staley Wise Gallery
• Stella McCartney
• Steven Alan
• Subversive Jewelry at the Shops at the Plaza
• Sugar Cookies
• Tadashi Shoji at Bloomingdales
• Teen Vogue and ASOS.com
• The Brownstone
• The Parlour Brooklyn
• The Sao Store
• The Touring Company
• The Track and Field Store
• The VIllage Scandal
• Thomas Pink
• Trunckshow
• Trunckshow at Tea and Things of That Kind
• Union Square / Grand Central Pop Up
• Vagabondnyc.com
• Victorinox Swiss Army
• Votre vu
• Wendy Mink Jewelry
• Yael Sonia
• Yigal Azrouel

Fashion’s Night Out 2010 PSA from Fashion’s Night Out on Vimeo.

PS: Yes I am still rocking my extensions. Last weekend I took on the task of washing them and I think I did a pretty good job. I used (and highly recommend) Ovation’s complete line of hair care products for extensions.

Here are the products and here are my results…watch out now;)

This past weekend I re-up’d on my OPI Axiuum Soak-Off Gel Lacquer.  I have to tell you…prior to taking the plunge about a month ago, I was sooo apprehensive. My biggest fear was that I would end up with dry, brittle, weak nails. I researched Axiuum for months before deciding to get it done. I even talked with professional friends of mine like @LuxebyTracyLee, manicurist to the stars. Once TracyLee told me it was safe, I decided to give it a go…AND I AM NOT LOOKING BACK.

For my first time time I went with Russian Navy. The manicure lasted nearly three weeks without chipping. The color and intense shine stayed true.

My current OPI gel mani is Big Apple Red

OPI Axiuum Soak-Off Gel Lacquer is, as Martha would say, a good thing! I am addicted. In Kearny NJ near me, the mani runs $35….chump change for a perfect manicure that lasts nearly three weeks!

Have a lovely weekend…xoxo!

Felicia

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.

Urban Decay is in a New York State of mind! Join Urban Decay for a special one day only preview sale! This will be a limited edition 1,000 piece run exclusive for Sephora!

Stop in to Sephora to get the ultimate New York City makeover!  There’s no better way to say “I  New York” than with Urban Decay’s brand new limited-edition pop-up palette, Book of Shadows Vol. 111. 

This palette is not only full of sixteen gorgeous eye shadows, two Glide-on Eye Pencils and a travel size Eyeshadow Primer Potion, but pays tribute to the city that never sleeps through its revolutionary LED-lit palette designed with a pop-up scene of NYC landmarks.

Be the first to sample this extensive eye palette with a complimentary makeover at the heart of New York City – Sephora Times Square. This coveted 16 shade palette doesn’t even launch on Urbandecay.com until after Labor Day, and will not be available in-store at Macy’s, Sephora, and Ulta, until October 1^st!  Seriously, BE THE FIRST!

(Palettes can be purchased beginning at 1:00 PM with a three piece purchasing limit per customer.)

August 28th 1:00pm – 9:00pm Sephora Times Square

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 on HSN, Celebrity dermatologist Susan Evans, M.D., will launch her new skincare line, The Papaya Renewal Collection by Dr. Evans Cosmeceuticals. The product line launches TODAY on HSN and be available online at DrEvans.com and HSN.com

More about the good doctor:
Dr. Evans is a highly sought after health and beauty medical expert regularly featured on popular television shows including Oprah, Today Show, GMA Health and Dr Oz Show. She is also Chief of Dermatology at Skincare Physicians of Beverly Hills, a skincare and cosmetic surgery medical center based in Beverly Hills, Calif.

Packed with multiple antioxidants including Papaya extract, an intensive fruit enzyme, the Papaya Renewal Collection by Dr. Evans Cosmeceuticals is designed to help support natural skin turnover, for a smoother, firmer, and suppler appearance. According to Dr. Evans, “While we can’t prevent aging, you can help offset the visible signs of premature aging by adopting a skincare regimen that is rich in antioxidants.”

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 popular ingredient is produced from the kernels of the argan tree and is endemic to Morocco. Argan oil is said to possess both medicinal and cosmetic properties because it is rich in Vitamin E, Omega-6, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants and has great restorative properties.

Argan oil has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, strengthen elasticity and improve skin’s overall health and vitality. Extremely rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, Argan oil has also been shown to fight free radicals, help reduce inflammation, minimize the appearance of wrinkles and assist in protecting the skin from environmental factors.

Whether browsing Sephora or your local Target, there’s no shortage of skin care, hair care, and cosmetic products containing Argan oil.

By now savvy makeup wearers have embraced the concept of primer, the key to flawless foundation application. Prep your skin with Josie Maran Argan Primer Mist. The stem-cell infused primer is all natural and somewhat revolutionary in its delivery system. The Argan Primer Mist, yes I said “mist”, sprays evenly onto the skin to naturally firm, nourish, and prep skin for foundation. The mist also works as a setting spray after makeup has been applied. ThisThatBeauty loves double duty beauty products!

Creme of Nature recently announced the launch of their Argan oil collection, the first line of mass retail products with Argan oil for multicultural hair. Creme of Nature with Argan oil boasts an innovative line of five, moisture-enriched shine products infused with Certified Organic Argan oil. The new products include:

• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment Pack that strengthens, deeply infuses moisture, and prevents hair breakage
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Gloss & Shine Polisher to instantly impart radiant shine, seal in moisture, control frizz and leave hair silky smooth
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Foaming Wrap, a unique shine-enhancing foam that nourishes hair, and provides long-lasting hold while giving it a soft, silky feel
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Gloss & Shine Mist, a weightless mist that instantly shines, conditions and controls frizz and fly-aways
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Replenishing Sheen Spray, a high-gloss sheen with advanced moisturizing properties and a light-weight, soft finish.

Of the newly launched mass market hair care line, Shawn Tollerson, VP of Marketing says this:

“We are very excited to bring Creme of Nature with Argan oil with its shine and nutrient rich benefits to the multicultural marketplace. Finally, this new line offers Argan oil which is typically found in prestige products to the masses at an affordable price.”

If your hair is damaged, chemically-treated or excessively-curly, the Crème of Nature Argan Oil collection provides the hydration and radiant shine your hair deserves!

Kahina Giving Beauty is an organic skincare line that incorporates 100% organic Argan oil sourced from the women’s cooperatives of Morocco. Kahina products are formulated with organic ingredients whenever possible then manufactured in an eco-friendly, carbon neutral facility and packaged in recycled and recyclable materials. There are four products in the core line –

• Facial Cleanser
• Serum
• Facial Lotion
• 100% Organic Argan Oil
• Eye Cream – A ThisThatBeauty fave! (more info below)
• Travel Basics kit – Includes mini versions of the Argan oil, cleanser and lotion

While the entire line is impressive, in my opinion the hero product of the line is the eye cream. Kahina Giving Beauty Eye Cream is a high performance eye cream that is formulated to firm and nourish the delicate eye contour area.

The cream contains 79% organic content and is richly textured with essential ingredients like natural botanicals, collagen-boosting peptides and soothing aloe vera leaf juice. Additionally, Kahina Eye Cream contains:

• Organic White and Green Tea Extracts – Studies have shown these anti-oxidant substances restore and build skin’s immune response at the cellular level, protecting skin from sun damage, wrinkling and discoloration.
• Sea Fennel Extract – Sourced from the North Atlantic rocky coastal cliffs, this hydrating and vitamin rich ingredient calms and protects skin with powerful antiseptic properties.
• Organic Acerola Extract – This potent, natural source of vitamin C inhibits melanin production, effectively brightening the skin and preventing mottling.
• Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract – This legendary Siberian herb has been linked with longevity and shown to reduce fat deposits, stimulate and boost cell metabolism.
• Maritime Pine Extract – This Mediterranean tree’s bark provides a natural defense system, protecting the skin from oxidative damage, fighting the degenerative process of aging and stimulating the biosynthesis and regenerative processes of skin tissue.
• Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract – This strain of yeast increases cellular oxygen consumption and energizes skin. Combined with Rhodiola Root Extract, it reduces the appearance of puffiness, strengthens and firms the skin and improves microcirculation.

Kahina’s social entrepreneur founder, Katharine L’Heureux, donates 25% of the profits back to the women of the Moroccan co-op who work to provide the Argan oil for Kahina.

After the successful launch of Bois D’Orange Reinvigorating Fresh Fragrant Water, Roger & Gallet have recently added a new product to its portfolio – Huile Sublime. If double duty beauty products float your boat, read on….This lightly textured dry oil is a multi-tasking product which is suitable for use on the face, body and in the hair. The zesty blend of mandarin, orange, bitter-orange essential oils, orange blossom, jasmine and Atlas cedar is certain to invigorate the senses.

Huile Sublime is made up of six active vegetable oils, including: Argan oil, known for its nourishing properties; almond oil, to soften the skin; camellia oil, to restore suppleness; macadamia oil, a nourishing ingredient; evening-primrose oil, to protect the skin; and sesame oil. The product also incorporates antioxidant vitamin E and orange essential oils.

Arganics hair care system is designed to help repair damaged hair. The new line of hair products feature an advanced blend of Moroccan Argan oil and extra virgin olive oil. The collection officially launches in the fall and will include:

• OutGel This! Styling Gel: A water-based, alcohol-free gel to give hair firm hold, control and shine
• OutMoist This! Oil Moisturizer Treatment: This lightweight treatment can be used daily to give hair body and shine
• OutTreat This! Hair & Scalp Gro Treatment: A protecting treatment product which can be applied before heat styling or used to protect against breakage and chemicals
• OutCleanse This! Infinite Moisturizing Shampoo: A cleansing and conditioning shampoo that promises to leave hair looking healthy
• OutReplenish This! Infinite Moisturizing Conditioner: This conditioner is said to penetrate deep into the hair shaft to reduce hair breakage
• OutPolish This! Polishing Hair Serum: Multifunctioning serum designed to protect, repair and give shine
• OutShine This! Sheen Conditioning Hair Spray: A lightweight, protecting spray for all hair types
• Double Conditioning & Moisturizing No-Lye Relaxer Kit: This product offers conditioning and moisturizing benefits during hair relaxing, and contains chelating rinse to reduce breakage
• OutStop This! Neutralizing & Clarifying Shampoo: Washes away all relaxer and caustic residue after relaxing

Don’t put away your SPF after Labor Day. Sun protection is a year round job. Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Day Crème SPF 15 utilizes the power of Argan oil with Deep Sea Water to boost skin’s hydration and improve moisture retention. Keep your skin protected from damaging UVA and UVB 365 days a year!

Argan Hair Serum from SulaNYC uses Argan oil to restore shine and add softness to hair. The product is recommended for hair that is dull and lifeless. Argan Hair Serum (which is safe for use on the body) restructures, heals and repairs hair that has been damaged by heat, coloring or aggressive styling. The powerful serum also protects against UV damage and helps to tame unruly frizz. Are your locks in need of a little SulaNYC TLC?

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.

Fridays with Felicia: An intimate look behind the curtain as I share my favorite style/ beauty discoveries and ThisThatBeauty shenanigans from previous week.

(I visited HSN last week ======> full deets soon)

Let’s kick off “Fridays with Felicia” with you. Yes, YOU!

Hey girl! How you doin? How’s your skin? As you all know, I am absolutely positively obsessed with good skin care habits. I love pretty makeup as much as the next product hoarding Beauty Blogger but a solid skincare regiment is EVERYTHING. Six months ago, my passion and never ending holy grail quest for perfect skin prompted me to pen an epic post on my personal skincare philosophy.

While the article was a little long in the tooth (nearly 3000 words long to be exact) I think it did a lot of good. The post garnered 59 comments – a ThisThatBeauty record. In fact, your responses were so heartfelt and extensive that it lead to the creation of my current ongoing series on Hyperpigmentation which currently has nine articles.

So six months later, I am compelled to check in  with you. Yes YOU!  So many of you commented to say:

• “Thank you”
• “I’m going to take better care of my skin”
• “I’ll try committing to a solid skincare regiment”
• Etc.

It’s six months later and I am curious to hear where you are with yours! Have you stepped up your skin care game? Has you skin improved? Are you taking care of YOU?

Please do me a favor – If you commented when I originally posted the Hyperpigmentation/ skin care piece, please comment today and fill me in on how you’re doing. When I wrote that article six months ago, your comments really meant EVERYTHING to me. I want to know how you are progressing.  Also, your comments help me tailor content to meet your needs.

And because I practice what I preach….and pride myself on “don’t talk about it, be about it”…I will lead by example and provide an update since writing the post six months ago:

So to recap…here’s what my skin looked like about 8 months ago (no makeup):

Here’s what my skin looked like after about 2 months of following the regiment outlined in my ThisThatBeauty vs Hyperpigmentation post (no makeup):

And here’s what my skin looks like today…6 months after writing that epic post on skincare (no makeup…or maybe I’m pulling a Jessica Simpson — I think there’s a little stray smeared eye liner that I didn’t completely remove…but there is absolutely NO foundation in these pics).

Let me start by saying this….WOW! Those original pics are still so hard to look at. I cannot believe my skin was that bad. On top of that, I was astounded at how much my skin had improved in just 2 months on my regiment. Those products really kicked butt!!!

In looking at my skin today, its hard to believe I ever had any issues at all . As re-read  the regiment I posted back in March, while the principles remain the same, the actual products have changed since then. I currently use different cleansers, toners, serums, and masks. I still use the Evoclin foam to keep my acne at bay. I’ve rotated a few different hyperpigmentation treatment products in and out of my regiment over the last few months. Again, the products may have changed but my skin care principles remain the same…and that, in my opinion, is the most important take-away. Commit to a skin care regiment that is rooted in the fundamentals…and be consistent day to day. If your products work stick with them…naturally, as a beauty writer, I am constantly trying out new stuff. But I definitely recommend that you practice product loyalty…let ME be the guinea pig!

Please leave a comment and update me on how your skin is progressing!

PS: Look out for an equally EPIC hair story that’s in the works…

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This week I was invited to tour the soon to be completed, state of the art, new and improved beauty level at Lord & Taylor – 39th Street.  The space is still a bit raw so I had to wear a brightly colored hard hat that’s certain to protect me from falling debris

The event consisted of a guided tour of the finished and unfinished space. Beauty brands like Clinique, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Nars, Mario Badescu, Bobbi Brown, Clarins, and more presented some of the amazing new beauty innovations that we can expect from L&T once the beauty level is completely renovated. I hope I have the opportunity to get more one-on-one time with the brands but here are a few highlights:

Mario Badescu will have a counter at L&T. I am as pleased as punch to see the brand expand their retail outlets and get more exposure. A simple search of this site using the key words “Mario Badescu” will yield countless product reviews. Be on the look out for an upcoming piece from ThisThatBeauty Contributor Christene Carr. She recently visited Mario Badescu for her first facial EVER. If you’re a facial virgin, you will want to hear all about Christene’s experience.

Clinique’s skincare computer marries technology and beauty

Estee Lauder promises to help you find your perfect foundation match in two minutes in six different lights. Wondering what that crimson lip will look like in daylight vs office light vs candlelight?…Estee Lauder can help!

Lancome boasts that their new state of the art “Diagnos” machine will survey your skin’s texture, pore size, hydration level, and firmness and recommend the perfect products for your skin. I would love to give this a try and report back!

Lancome is also pleased to offer 10-day supplies of their foundation, which comes in 117 shades and 6 formulas. I’m no numbers cruncher but I like those figures!

Lastly for Lancome, the beauty counter at Lord & Taylor features a mascara bar that lets you try out various mascara wands. This is incredibly innovative…no more one size fits all disposable wands. Is the mascara performance not all about the BRUSH? Kudos Lancome!

Want more info on L&T’s new beauty department? Check the Twitter timeline for  #LTFACELIFT and see what your fav beauty bloggers are saying.

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In Fashion’s Night Out News, check out this Three Custom Color Specialists and Talbots collaboration…

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Beauty360.com is the online shopping destination for CVS/pharmacy’s prestige beauty retailer and carries coveted cosmetic brands including Vincent Longo, Paula Dorf, Laura Geller, Cargo and many more.  Through August 23^rd Beauty 360 is promoting an exclusive online makeup sale.  Save 20% on your favorite prestige makeup brands by entering the special code SIZZLE at checkout!  Click the following link for additional details and to start shopping: http://tinyurl.com/29n9rum

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“Find Your Fall Style” with Style Coach, Kim Johnson Gross of Chic Simple.

Sign up to receive daily style tips on how to revamp your wardrobes for fall. When signing up, members are entered to win $100 gift cards to Target to start fall shopping. Check out the campaign http://challenges.ivillage.com/fall-style

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If you love beauty apps as much as I do, iPhone users listen up! Give yourself a virtual makeover with Pur Minerals IPur Beauty iPhone application!

Pür Minerals now offers a commitment-free way to experiment with new looks..and who doesn’t love a good “try before you buy?”

Trying out a new look on the Pür Minerals app is simple and fun:

• TAKE: upload or use a model photo to start your makeover.
• APPLY: Click a product, select a shade and experience a Pür transformation. The customized algorithm will identify the facial co-ordinates for precise application. Don’t like your new look? You have the option of adjusting the facial co-ordinates, undo or start again.
• SHARE: Once the makeover is complete, the finished look can be shared through Facebook for a polished profile picture or send to a friend via email.
• BUY: Love your new look? iPür Beauty offers a direct link to Ulta.com to order products online or to find a location near you for an in-store purchase.

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Up and coming designer Eliza Starbuck of Bright Young Things pays tribute to Coco Chanel by offering a week long sale on her versatile take of the little black dress. You will recall that I participated in the Bright Young Things Style Challenge and modeled the dress of a thousand looks.

In honor of Gabrielle “CoCo” Chanel’s Birthday, The Bright Young Things LBD will be on sale for $150 (reg $185) through Wednesday, August 25  online at www.youbrightyoungthings.com.

Of the iconic CoCo Chanel, Eliza Starbuck says this:

“Coco Chanel was the most innovative designer of the 20th Century. She dared to wear and design clothes that challenged the social standards and gender roles of the times. She broke every rule and always looked amazing doing it. She was living proof that it’s not what you wear, but how you wear it that defines style. Fabulous, determined, and outspoken, Coco Chanel made an enormous impact on society and the way people dress. Happy Birthday, Mademoiselle Chanel”

Eliza Starbuck recently experienced an opportunity that most only dream of…and by “most” I mean “me”.

Find your sacred quiet place and savor this — Eliza Starbuck’s exclusive interview with CoCo Chanel. Here is the intro:

To celebrate, I thought I’d give her a ring. She doesn’t get out much these days, and most people seem to think she’s dead, but like Tupac and Elvis, she’s virtually immortal.

Read the complete interview here: http://www.youbrightyoungthings.com/2010/08/18/eliza-starbuck-celebrates-128-years-of-style-with-coco-chanel/

I love you all for reading my lil ol blog week after week!

xo,

Felicia

PS: Happy Birthday two of my bestest friends. We partied hard. Friendship is golden and I thank God for these gals!

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.

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August 19th 3:00pm – 8:00pm

• Sephora Times Square
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August 20th 3:00pm – 8:00pm

• Sephora 42nd & Madison
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August 21st 12:00pm – 6:00PM

• Sephora 5th Ave
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• Sephora Times Square

August 22nd 12:00pm – 6:00pm

• Sephora Times Square
• Sephora Union Square

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.