Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #6

Happy Friday Beautiful People! I hope this week has been Fabulous for all of you. Since I moved to LA, I have struggled with my skin getting acclimated (as you all know), and finding a hair stylist who is comparable to my DC stylist Mahadeo. After being referred to a couple of salons in the area, I visited one that gave me an enjoyable experience that left me satisfied. While being serviced, the stylist's assistant used a product on my hair that I absolutely fell in love with, Organic Root Stimulator Edge Control. After interrogating her about the uses and ingredients of the product I immediately went to Wal-Mart and purchased it. This product is extremely effective on my natural hair in its wet and/or dry state. My favorite feature(s) is that it is neither oily or dry, and leaves hair smooth and polished, with a good amount of moisture and shine. It retails on average for $4.99 and can be purchased at most Wal-Mart and Walgreens locations, as well as Beauty Supply Stores.

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #5

Happy Monday Dolls! If you follow me on Twitter you have been subjected to my frequent complaints about the current condition of my skin. Well in pursuit of the perfect remedy for my skin woes, I have recently attempted a plethora of products. One of those products was AMBI EVEN & CLEAR Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30. I was extremely excited to try this product after reading some of the reviews, and researching the ingredients and there effects on the skin. However, after using it for a few weeks my skin condition worsened and my overall experience was disappointing. The oily moisturizer sits directly on top of the skin and doesn't permeate through, leaving an unwanted layer of product. This not only makes the skin feel slick, but doesn't provide the appropriate canvas for a makeup application. I definitely wouldn't recommend this product for people with oily, combination, or congested skin.

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #4

Greetings Dolls! I hope that everyone had a Fabulous Valentine's Day and celebrated with someone that you Die For! As many of you know, I recently relocated to Los Angeles, and while the west coast is a DREAM, the smog in the air has been a total and absolute nightmare for my skin. While I struggled from time to time with the occasional congestion on my cheeks due to blush and weave (yes I said it!), it wasn't until I arrived in sunny LA that I experienced forehead, nose & chin break-outs. Being the self-proclaimed Product Junky that I am, I immediately began testing various popular and recommended cleansers determined to eradicate myself of this new issue. After receiving no luck from the products, I perused the aisles at CVS until deciding upon Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub, and man oh man am I elated that I did. This scrub is phenomenal providing my skin with the correct balance of moisture, exfoliant, cleanser and medication. Best of all it retails for under $10.00 and is more effective than comparable pricier products. Have any of you tried this product and if so, how was your experience?

Flawless Finish: Dior DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation

As we all know I'm a SLAVE to the MAC brand and am pretty much as Loyal as it gets, however while perusing the various makeup counters at Bloomingdales, I was magnetically drawn to the Dior counter, and more specifically the DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation. The initial attraction was based on the similarities between this product and MAC's Studio Mist Foundation. Both were foundations, in a spray can, that were comparable to airbrush makeup, however after experiencing the DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation it became clear to me that the technology and quality of this product far surpassed that of MAC's discontinued version. This ultra fluid mist spray delivers a smooth and natural finish that is both flawless and fresh. The foundation can be used in conjunction with a sheer concealer but works well at diminishing fine lines and camouflaging uneven skin on its own. Be sure to apply to skin that is clean, moisturized and primed to achieve the maximum effect. Spray a small amount of the product directly onto skin and immediately buff in with a stippling brush. This product retails for $60 and can be purchased online via http://www.sephora.com/, http://www.dior.com/, and http://www.bloomingdales.com/. Also, visit any Sephora, Bloomingdales or Dior stand alone store to experience and/or purchase the product. I promise you will DIE FOR IT!

Fabulous Stocking Stuffers

Happy Thanksgiving Dolls! Can you believe that 2010 is almost over, CRAZY RIGHT? Well you know what that means.....it's gift giving time. This process is exciting for those of us who are great gift givers, however I am a horrible at selecting gifts for people and ALWAYS wait until the very last minute to shop. For those of you who fall into the same category as me I have created a list of "Fabulous Stocking Stuffers" for the Ladies in your life. The list consists of products that I either have or want so I figured that other Divas would appreciate them as well. Enjoy :)

1. MAC Cosmetics - She's Got it All Apply, Line & Define Brush Collection


This brush set is PERF for the lady who loves to dress up her eyes and try different eye looks, but doesn't have the proper tools. I cannot stress enough how essential it is to utilize the correct brushes when applying eye makeup. In addition to the fabulous brushes, the collection comes with a fabulous tartan plaid bag to carry them in which fits into any purse. This kit retails at $49.50 and can be purchased at all MAC locations (stores and counters) and online - http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/2221/12890/Shes-Got-it-All-Apply-Define-Line-Brush-Collection/index.tmpl

2. Clarisonic Skincare Brush


Estheticians utilize this brush when performing facials on virtually every skin type. It removes makeup six times better than traditional methods, Clears pores and reduces the appearance of pore size, Cleanses so thoroughly that skincare products absorb better, and Creates noticeably healthier looking skin. If your skin is problematic in any way I guarantee that using this product will drastically improve its appearance. It retails for $195, however it prevents you from ever needing a facial again making it well worth the price!! I suggest making the brush a part of your everyday skincare regimen, however using it once daily (at night) is extremely effective as well. The Clarisonic Skincare Brush can be purchased at Nordstrom, Sephora, or online - http://www.clarisonic.com/

3. Lancome Cils Booster XL Super Enhancing Mascara Base


One main trend among my clients is that many of them don't own or use a mascara primer or base, but can't seem to understand why their mascara isn't providing the affect they desire. HELLO LADIES.........you need a base! While mascaras are designed to either create volume, length, curl or a combination of the three, depending upon the consistency of the product and the shape of the wand, they can be difficult to apply smoothly. However all mascaras work effortlessly with a base or primer and this particular one by far is my favorite. Lancome’s Mascara Base separates and defines lashes, creating exceptional length and volume. This product retails at $22.00 and can be purchased at Nordstrom, Sephora and all other retail locations where Lancome products are sold.

4. Deborah Lippmann 'Layer Cake' Nail Color Trio


While working at the MAC counter in Nordstrom, I stumbled across the most FABULOUS nail color trio that I absolutely die for. The Nordstrom website describes it as: An uber-chic polish trio featuring Wicked Game (swirling lavender grey), Happy Birthday (party in a bottle) and Dark Side of the Moon (absolutely aubergine). I like to paint the nails on one hand with Wicked Game and the opposite hand with Dark Side of the Moon, then top both hands off with Happy Birthday (it really is a party in a bottle). For the less flashy lady alternate manicures with Wicked Game and Dark Side of the Moon. Also, not only are the colors Fab but they are in trend for the season so you can't loose. This trio retails at $25.00 and can be purchased at Nordstrom locations or online - http://shop.nordstrom.com/

5. Amazing Grace


These chilly wintry months cause our skin to become dry and tight. Philosphy's Amazing Grace perfumed hot salt, tub and shower scrub works fabulously to soften and smooth the skin. In addition to the supple skin that is left after using the scrub, a feminine and clean smell remains that lingers throughout the day. This scrub retails are $25.00 for 23 oz and is available wherever Philosophy products are sold, or online - http://www.philosophy.com/

I hope that my list of items inspired you and provided ideas for your own personal lists (LOL) or gifts to buy for your loved ones. Other gift ideas include mani/pedi giftcards, MAC's 5 Sassy Neutral Lassies Lipglass set, and a subscription to Vogue or InStyle magazines.

Also Ladies, take a moment to think about those less fortunate and lend a helping hand this holiday season :) Happy Holidays

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #3

With the plethora of mascaras on the market today, it's difficult to decipher which brand truly makes the best product. Being a makeup artist and certified product junky, I can honestly say that I've easily tried at least 20 types of mascaras, and my best experience was with Lancome's Hypnôse Drama. The full contact S-shaped curved brush grasps and loads lashes for a fanned out, eye-popping, full body fringe. It is the best quality mascara at its price point and definitely worth the expense. This mascara is literally drama in a bottle. It retails for $24.50 and can be purchased at Sephora locations nationwide.

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #2

Long time no see Dolls! I know I know, I’ve been slacking on the posts, but I am back in full effect and so happy to share with you an amazing product that I die for. AMBI EVEN & CLEAR Exfoliating Wash is virtually the most effective cleanser I’ve come across this year, and we all know that I am extremely critical of cleansers. I have been religiously using it twice per day and have noticed a dramatic (positive) change in both the texture and clarity of my face. It is my opinion that it has the capacity to work best on normal skin, however with the seasons changing my oily-skin Dolls can benefit from the consistency of this great product as well. This unique cleanser consists of microbeads that gently exfoliates skin by removing dead skin cells. Also, it is specially formulated with salicylic acid, and a combination of soy extract and Vitamins C & E to help clear skin of pimples and breakouts while keeping skin even toned. With daily use, this creamy exfoliating cleanser rejuvenates skin, leaving it more radiant and smooth. I wholeheartedly recommend this product and give it the “ADJ Approval”.

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #1

Raise your hand if you are a Product Junky (or PJ for short). I am a CERTIFIED, hands down PJ who has come to grips with the severity of my situation. I will purchase and try virtually any beauty product that appeals to me from makeup to skincare to nailcare and beyond. While my makeup kit is completely to capacity for obvious reasons, if you were to take a look in my linen closet or beneath my bathroom sink, the PJ in me would be TOTALLY exposed! To provide assistance to my readers (my PJs in particular) when selecting products to purchase I decided to share my experiences with ones I have tried in order to promote the fabulous ones and stop you from wasting your money on the not-so-greats! For this post in particular I have selected a makeup product - Maybelline XXL PRO Extensions Mascare and a skincare product - Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser. So here we go................


Maybelline XXL PRO Extensions Mascara

While I have always been a strong advocate for Maybelline Great Lash mascara for an everyday mascara, up until a few months ago I was a ride or die MAC Zoom Lash Girl for a dramatic eye or night out. Around that time, the consistency of MAC Zoom Lash appeared to be different and I noticed that my application would constantly be lumpy, and once the product dried I would have God awful flaking. This was a SERIOUS problem for me and fed the PJ in me fuel to go a quest for an amazing dramatic mascara. I decided that since Maybelline Great Lash had never let me down, I would attempt an option from the Maybelline brand and ended up purchasing the Maybelline XXL PRO Extensions mascara is black for approximately $8.99. This mascara was initially appealing because it incorporated both the primer and actual mascara into the same product. Normally I would purchase both the primer and Zoom Lash separately from MAC so I was TOO excited about the 2 for 1 deal, however you receive more product when they are purchased from MAC, BUT spend approximately three times more money (so ultimately the Maybelline XXL PRO Extensions mascara is the better deal!). After applying two layers of the XXL PRO to my naked lashes and allowing them to dry I was instantly satisfied. This product separates, elongates and adds volume simultaneously creating a superb level of drama and elegance to the eyes. I have only used the product a handful of time, but I would strongly recommend it to all of you Fabs! Maybelline XXL PRO Extensions mascara is reasonably priced and is of a level of quality comparable to much pricier competitors.



Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser

For some reason when I reached the ripe old age of 25 my skin started to literally spazz out, so the PJ in me immediately went into action going on a serious mission to find the perfect cleanser that would cease the bad activity occurring on my face. After trying Neutrogena's Oil Free Acne wash and having the opposite reaction then that of what I expected I decided to select a product from a different brand entirely. I remembered one of my cousin's telling me that she loved this fabulous cleanser by Aveeno, and judging from her radiant skin, the cleanser was to die for. I excitedly purchased Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and begin using it consistently for a few weeks. I'm disappointed to report that my experience with this product was not a positive one. It completely dried my skin and neglected to provide any noticeable positive changes with the condition of my skin, although I can say that my skin didn't worsen when using this product. I have combination skin and this product isn't marketed specifically to any single skin-type, however it's obvious after using it that it is made for people with oily skin. While I wouldn't recommend this product to my readers, I wouldn't totally bash its abilities simply because my experience wasn't completely negative.