Glow & Go: Scott Barnes Body Bling

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Achieve glowing skin instantly with this shimmering body lotion that lasts all day. The bronzer to the stars, Scott Barnes Body Bling, is a no-commitment illuminator, that washes off with soap and water. Glow & Go.

Scott Barnes is a celebrated makeup artist credited for creating gorgeous looks for his numerous celebrity clients. His most popular look coined “the glow” was created on Jennifer Lopez. This monochromatic look features bronze glowing skin and pale lips. His signature look became known as “lit from within” and launched the world famous shimmering bronzer, Body Bling.

Use Body Bling on your shoulders, arms, legs, décolletage for a flawless look from head to toe. It’s great for masking self-tanning streaks or mistakes, covering flaws and instantly toning and slimming arms and legs. It is easy to apply and feels moisturizing on the skin.

Scott Barnes Body Bling is a must-have for summer. This lotion looks amazing on-top of already tanned (fake or real) skin. It is not dark enough to replace your other self-tanning products, but will look incredible in conjunction with. With specks of gold shimmer that reflect light beautifully, everyone can create Scott Barnes signature “lit from within” look.

Perfect Prep: Molton Brown-Warming Eucalyptus & Ginger Body Scrub

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Slough-off winter with Molton Brown’s Warming Eucalyptus & Ginger Body Scrub. This high performance body treatment feels pampering but gets the job done. Designed to boost circulation, soothe muscles and reveal a clearer, brighter skin tone, this body scrub is the perfect prep for summer skin.

I am currently testing the best sunless tanning products on the market. To do this, exfoliation is essential. With Molton Brown’s Warming Eucalyptus & Ginger Body Scrub, exfoliation is a treat. The fresh scent instantly lifts the spirits. The “warming” sensation, caused by ginger root (a powerful natural stimulant) feels comforting and invigorating. Eucalyptus oil, soothes muscle strain, relieves fatigue and tones as sea salts improve skin conditions, relax the muscles and detoxify the body. I told you… high performance.

Molton Brown’s Warming Eucalyptus & Ginger Body Scrub leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed, revealing baby-soft skin in seconds. Prep your skin for summer with a high performance body scrub.

Festival Beauty Essentials

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Be prepared for hot and sticky situations with Glow-T’s Festival Beauty Essentials:

Tory Burch Double Zip Train Case: A great travel case with cool ikat design.

Supergoop! Sunscreen Swipes SPF 30 (21 count): These sunscreen wipes are individually packed, perfect for throwing in your bag. The pre-moistened towelettes are formulated to calm and soothe the skin while providing complete UV protection. Great for sensitive skin, these wipes can be used all over the body.

Coola SPF 30 Unscented Matte Finish Tint: This lightly tinted moisturizer delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection. Infused with antioxidants, shea butter, plankton, borage seed oil and evening primrose extract, this lotion will rejuvinate, hydrate and protect. The water-resistant formula and matte finish is great for long days in the sun.

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25: My favorite lip balm to date, this product is incrediably soothing and moisturizing – provides SPF 25 and lasts. Enriched with superior skin conditioners and antioxidants, this emollient balm relieves dry, chapped and irritated lips.

Donna Karen Cashmere Mist Deodorant: Keep dry and odor-free with Donna Karen’s Cashmere Mist Deodorant. Delicately scented with perfume, this advanced formula controls wetness and perspiration.

CleanWell All Natural Hand Sanitizing Spray: Thousands of people and porta-potties… hand sanitizer is a must. This all-natural formula is made with thyme oil that kills all germs and the portable spray makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo (Travel Size): Extend time between washes with a dry shampoo. This gentle formula smells nice and absorbs oil and dirt – an instant refresher. Infused with oat milk, it also nourishes the hair while creating volume and texture.

Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes: Remove makeup, dirt and oil quickly with these all-natural wipes. Formulated with aloe vera, cucumber, chamomile and vitamin E, the easy-access wipes cleanse and refresh the face and body. Bonus: When purchased, these biodegradable wipes support to protect the endangered Polar Bear.

RMS Cream Eyeshadow – Solar: Perfect for the desert princess, this cream eyeshadow reflects a sheer wash of gold. A great all-in-one eye product, it doubles as an eye cream to nourish and moisturize the eye area.

NARS Cream Blush – Cactus Flower: The name alone implies desert beauty. This bright coral/spicy pink cream blush can be used on both the cheeks and lips. A very subtle gold shimmer leaves the skin flushed, dewy and healthy.

Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes Waterproof Mascara: Waterproof mascara is a must-have. I assure you Givenchy’s will not budge or smudge. The spiked-ball wand takes a little to get used to but defines, separates and lengthens exquisitely. Tip: With your finger, smudge on the lashline for an instant liner effect that will last.

Laura Geller Balance-n-Bronze: A genius design, adding bronzer and foundation, all-in-one. The color-correcting foundation is sheer but never looks powdery. The baked bronzer is infused with layers of color to achieve the perfect sun-kissed shade. Swipe separately or swirl together to get a glowing, sun-goddess look.

Holy Grail: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil

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Say good-bye to itchy skin and razor burn with L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil. This ultra-nourishing body wash gently cleanses while doubling as a moisturizing shaving foam.

When mixed with water,  L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil transforms from a soothing oil into lavish foam. The unique texture leaves a satin-like softness all over the body keeping moisture locked into the skin. Rich in almond oil, grape vine, rosemary and nourishing lipids, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for both men and women.

This shower oil is unique and like nothing I have ever tried. It is by far better than any shaving cream/gel available. A pea-sized amount is enough to use on the entire leg. It permits the closest shave possible and keeps skin soft and hydrated. It cleanses the skin without stripping it dry and the sweet almond scent will blanket the entire bathroom. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil has graduated to my Holy Grail list of products.

Summer in a Bottle: Bobbi Brown beach

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Nothing gets me more excited for summer than Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance. Layered with notes of jasmine, sea spray and mandarin, it is truly summer in a bottle.

An intoxicating combination of suntan lotion, salty sea and sand, the scent is comforting and nostalgic. The full line of Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance include: Body Lotion, Body Oil, Body Scrub, Shower Gel and Fragrance. The products are designed to keep skin glowing and hydrated all summer long. When layered, these products will also keep the fragrance locked-in for hours.

Use these products on a particularly gloomy day when you need a little pick-me-up. The refreshing scent will instantly recall memories of warm sunny days and a calm sea breeze.

LUSH Product Review: Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner

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LUSH is a store that I can play in for hours. The all-natural varieties and the amazingly fragrant atmosphere almost hypnotize me to purchase.

Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner is an in-shower moisturizer that leaves skin insanely hydrated. Infused with argan oil, brazil nut oil, cocoa butter, almond oil and rose extract, this product replaces the need for après body lotion.

The creator of this product,”Ro,” loved the silky feel of her hair after applying conditioner and envisioned a similar conditioning product for the body. In the shower, smooth the Argan Body Conditioner all over the body. Let the cream sit on the skin for a minute or two, then rinse. When washed away, a layer of oils and moisterizers are left on the body, keeping it protected and hydrated. The sweet vanilla/rose-scented cream lingers on the skin for hours.

I would suggest to sample this product before purchase. The layer of film left on the skin is a different sensation to those who prefer a squeaky-clean feeling.

Natural Detox: Elemental Herbology Detox Bathing Infusion

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Detox Bathing Infusion

After a long weekend away, nothing is better than coming home and diving into a bath. Since the weekend was filled with long nights, food and drink – the Detox Bathing Infusion by Elemental Herbology is what I reach for.

Simply add 2-3 capfuls of this magical elixir to your bath and your body is instantly revived. This detoxifying botanical bath oil helps stimulate circulation, reduce fluid retention, increase lymphatic drainage and eliminate toxins that can manifest in cellulite. Free from parabens, sulfates, preservatives and synthetic fragrances this natural detox will leave your skin soft and nourished and your body energized and “back-to-normal.”

Key Ingredients:

• Grapefruit has a powerful astringent, diuretic and thermogenic action which helps stimulate circulation, fight fatigue, detoxify the blood, shift fluid retention and eliminate cellulite.
• Juniper Berry helps tone the skin and stimulate circulation, aqua-drainage and cell renewal.
• Rosemary helps stimulate circulation and invigorate body and mind. Great oil for helping alleviate depression and improve concentration and focus.
• Geranium has a wonderful ability to harmonise the body while stimulating circulation and encouraging aqua-drainage.
• Sweet Almond, Jojoba and Peach Kernel combine to soften and nourish the skin.

Dabbling in Depilatories: Veet In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

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VEET In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

Depilatory creams are topical solutions designed to remove unwanted hair from practically any area of the body. The #1 disadvantage of using these types of creams is the fragrant smell of rotten eggs. The odor is caused from the chemical ingredients in the creams. Most depilatories contain sulfur and  thioglycoate, when oxygen is added, the chemical reaction releases an unpleasant scent. When shopping for depilatory products, marketing gurus promote their products as: “unscented,” “smells like roses,” “lemon-scented.” LIES! I have tried many different brands and have yet to find one that does not leave a trace of odor. Yes, they have done a great job to cover-up the scent, but it is still invariably apparent.

Advantages to using depilatory creams are… they work. A lotion that reveals smooth, hairless legs for days is the lazy-girl’s best (and cheaper) alternative to shaving.

My current favorite depilatory cream is Veet Suprem’Essence In-Shower Hair Removal Cream. The water-resistent formula lets you step into the shower while it works it’s magic and 3-5 minutes later, simply wash off. Veet products contain essential oils from plants and flowers to leave skin soft and mask the unpleasant odor. The scent is still evident but endurable. Also, using a depilatory in a warm shower will make results last longer. Hairs will be softer and more readily removed. Results can last three to five days depending on your hair-growth rate.

I use these creams in the colder months of the year for a couple reasons. After shaving, the “day-after stubble” seems to pop-up quicker when cold and during the warmer months, self-tanning products react strangely with these creams.

In conclusion, depilatories/hair removal creams have come a long way. If you want smooth skin for 3-5 days and can suffer the smell – dabble in depilatories.

Glow-T 2011: Best in Beauty

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Happy New Year! As 2012 begins, I want to recap on my favorite beauty products of 2011. These are items that I constantly reach for and will continue to use in the new year. From skincare to cosmetics, here are Glow-T’s Best of 2011 Beauty Products:

Body Lotion: Kiehls Creme de Corps

Face Cleanser: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

Face Moisturizer: Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre

Face Moisturizer/Foundation: Origins VitaZing SPF 15

Sunscreen: NIA24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen

Eyeshadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked Palette

Foundation: Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua

Mascara: Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara

Bottom Lash Mascara: Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara

Concealer/Corrector: Giorgio Armani Master Corrector

Blush: By Terry Rose De Rose Blush Fluide

Powder: Becca Fine Loose Finishing Powder

Hair Mask: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask

Makeup Sponge: Beauty Blender

Hair Product: Bumble & Bumble Texture

Lip Product: Smashbox Limitless Lip Stain & Color Seal Balm

Glow-T Gift Guide: Bath & Body

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Glow-T’s Gift Guide continues with bath & body. Give the gift of relaxation with creamy, bubbly bath products. Pamper loved ones with luxurious holiday bath sets that aid in relaxation. From mood-changing natural oils to decadent bath bubbles and balms, here are a few gift ideas for an at-home spa experience.

Space NK ~ Rodial REHAB Bath & Body Gift Set: $60.00

BeautyHabit ~ Kai Bubbles & Light Gift Set: $49.00

BeautyBar ~ Elemental Herbology Botanical Bathing Infusions Gift Set: $42.00

Sephora ~ L’Occitane Best of L’Occitane Set: $75.00

Nordstrom ~ Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Milk Body & Bath Trio: $60.00

Holy Grail: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps

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Kiehls Creme de Corps

Kiehl’s was founded as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village over 150 years ago. Their products are made with the finest ingredients in unique formulations to assure high quality skincare products. Currently a subsidiary of French cosmetics giant L’Oreal, Kiehl’s can be found in department and flagship stores worldwide.

Creme de Corps body lotion is the brand’s best-selling product. Kiehl’s produces over 1,000,000 ounces of Creme de Corps each year. Used incessantly on models backstage to create glowing skin, this body lotion leaves skin soft, smooth and beautifully moisturized. The ultra-rich formula glides on seamlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft – not greasy. The unscented body lotion is formulated with rich butters, oils and beta carotene to provide all-day hydration.

By far, the best body lotion I have ever used. No matter how many products I try and test, Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is what I reach for the most.

Tip: Purchase Kiehl’s products at flagship stores, if possible. These stores are known for their generous sample supply. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Skin Savior: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is a versatile skin conditioning balm used for dry patches, sore skin and much much more.

The formula is almost unchanged since it first appeared in the 1930s. Rumor has it, Eight Hour Cream was originally used as an emollient for Miss Arden’s racehorses’ hooves.

This deep moisturizing balm can be used on the body, face and lips. Hailed backstage, top makeup artists slick it on models lips for instant hydration, apply to the lids for a dewy sheen and use as a face mask for ultimate illumination.

The thick apricot-colored salve is similar to petroleum jelly in texture but slightly more thick and sticky. The only downfall to this product is the smell. A strong medicinal aroma that lasts even after application. The smell is not appealing but Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is worth purchasing for it’s effectiveness.

Known for it’s incredible moisturizing properties, Eight Hour Cream has been labeled as a skin-saver, after-sun soother, shine factor, eye opener, treat for feet and the holy grail product for maintaining glowing, nourished skin.

Dry Brushing: Body Shop Round Body Brush

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Body Shop Round Body Brush

In past posts, I have discussed the importance and benefits of body brushing. It helps shed dead skin cells, improve skin texture, increase circulation, eliminate toxins and assist in absorbing nutrients.

The Round Body Brush by Body Shop is my current favorite. It has dense soft bristles that are tough and sturdy. The round shape provides easy control and fits comfortably in the hand.

Dry brush regularly for radiant and healthy skin. Find a brush that works for you, making sure it is not too harsh (may break tiny blood vessels or capillaries).

Gardenia Bath: Kai Bathing Bubbles

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Kai Bathing Bubbles

As a bath fanatic, I am always on the hunt for luxurious bath products that nourish the skin and indulge the senses. Kai Bathing Bubbles satisfy all of my bath criteria with it’s intoxicating scent and moisturizing properties.

Kai is a fragrance created by Gaye Straza Rappaport who wanted to capture the aroma of her vacations in Hawaii. The scent is a blend of gardenia, jasmine, tuberose and lilly with gardenia being the prominent note.

When added to a hot bath, this product creates foaming bubbles that perfume the entire room. The bathing bubbles formula blend moisturizing argan oil with coconut and sugar to leave the skin hydrated, supple and glowing.

When drawing a bath, I tend to add a lot of product to produce a sufficient amount of bubbles. However, Kai Bathing Bubbles is very concentrated and a small squirt will engulf the entire tub.

Simple Sponge: Konjac Sponge

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Konjac Sponge

Konjac is a natural food source that has been used in Japanese cuisine for over 1500 years. Ninety seven percent of Konjac is water and three percent is a dietary fiber. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the Japanese have been using Konjac sponges as beauty treatments for centuries.

The unique net like structure of the Konjac sponge, gently massages and stimulates blood flow and new growth of skin cells.  A naturally moisture-rich plant fibre in the sponge balances the acidity of the skin and leaves it extremely clean and refreshed with no need for additional cleansers or soap.

Available in diferent ranges, according to skin type, the Konjac sponge can be infused with clays and charcoal for added benefits. Pink clay has been used for tired, devitalized skin, green clay for normal to oily skin and red clay for dry and sensitive skin. Also, available in bamboo charcoal for very oily or acne-prone skin.

To use, gently massage sponge over the face and body in a circular motion. A cleansing solution can be added, but is not necessary. If added, the smallest amount is needed as the sponge will create an immense lather. Splash with warm water to reveal squeaky clean and refreshed skin.

Each sponge lasts for around one to three months and can be found at any health-food stores. Can be used on the most delicate, sensitive skin and is even recommended for newborn babies. The Konjac sponge is simple yet effective and works on every skintype.

Benefits of Coconut Oil: Organic Fiji Virgin Coconut Oil

Organic Figi Pineapple Coconut Organic Cold Pressed Coconut Oil

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Coconut has an abundance of benefits and uses. Enriched in vitamins A, B, C and E, Coconut oil is a natural anti-oxidant that nourishes and repairs the skin and hair.

Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It can easily penetrate into your hair restoring it’s protein content and provide incredible antioxidant properties. Coconut oil also contains a powerful antimicrobial called Lauric acid. Lauric Acid is a saturated fatty acid that fights bacteria and infection and has been used in the treatment of acne.

On the long list of benefits, Coconut oil is an amazing moisturizer. Organic Fiji Pineapple Coconut Organic Cold Press Coconut Oil for Face, Body & Hair is my favorite. This product is extremely nourishing and smells amazing. The tropical aroma of pineapple and coconut is relaxing and intoxicating. Slather it all over your hair and/or body and you will instantly be dreaming of your next vacation.

Bronzing Oil: Terracotta Huile De Voyageur

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Terracotta Huile De Voyageur

Summer is all about healthy-looking skin. The quickest way to fake this is with Terracotta Hulle De Voyageur Nourishing Dry Oil. This luxurious bronzing oil hydrates the skin and imparts a short-term glow.

The non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula is made primarily of Argan oil to hydrate the skin. Tiny specks of gold and mother-of-pearl provide subtle color and shimmer. Skin is left nourished, smooth and luminous.

The scent is a hypnotic blend of Tiare flower that perfumes the skin of jasmine. It smells rich and exotic, coating the skin for hours.

Guerlain’s Terracotta line uses a Tan Booster technology that prolongs a tan. It also uses Roucou, a reddish-brown vegetable pigment that has been used throughout the ages to intensify color day after day.

This is a great quick-fix bronzing oil, as it washes off with simple soap and water. Tip: Let the product dry completely, as some color will transfer.

Easy Exfoliating: Origins Ginger Body Scrub

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Origins Ginger Body Scrub

Want softer, healthy-looking skin…Exfoliate!

Your body is covered by a layer of dead skin cells. No matter how often you moisturize, these creams and lotions will not be able to penetrate the epidermis of the skin without sloughing away these dead skin cells.

A body scrub is made up of granulated particles that deeply clean the skin and unclog pores. These products single-handedly remove dead skin cells, dirt and oil. They also stimulate the skin and promote blood circulation which has been used to help with cellulite and even boost immunity.

Once you have removed the barrier of dead skin cells creams and lotions will be readily absorbed by the skin.

Origins Ginger Body Scrub is made with dead sea salts and ginger zest. This invigorating scrub smells delicious and removes all traces of roughness on the skin. It also contains moisterizing properties like Macadamia Oil, Soybean Oil, Jujui Nut Oil and Sweet Almond Oil.

When using a body scrub, gently rub all over body in circular motion and rinse off. The amount of pressure used is up to you. When having a scrub procedure done at a day-spa, they use an immense amount of pressure that can be slightly painful – but totally worth it. Don’t be afraid to work up a little sweat when applying. Make sure to moisturize immediately after to reveal your new skin, healthy and glowing.

Supple Skin: L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate

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L'OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate

L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate is a whipped body moisturizer that smells divine and banishes dry skin. Rich in almond oil this creamy butter melts into the skin leaving it soft and supple.

The Almond Milk Concentrate uses almond proteins, enriched with vitamin E, to firm and nourish the skin. It also contains silicium, similar to collagen, to restore skin’s support tissue.

The sweet smell of almonds, brown sugar and whipped marshmallows lingers on the skin all day. If applied before bed, the delicious aroma clings to the sheets faintly.

The retro packaging of this body cream, heavy glass jar with silver-tin lid, is just one more reason to continue purchasing the Almond Milk Concentrate.

Blissful Bath: LUSH Serenity Set

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LUSH Serenity Gift Set

LUSH’s Serenity box is a lavish set of soothing and calming bath products. Perfect pampering gift, this box is all that is needed for the ultimate bubble bath.

LUSH bath products are truly unique. From bubble bars to bath bombs and melts, each item can be used alone or combined for an exceptional bath experience. Each of the items in this box smell of a sweet floral aroma that lasts on the skin and in the air for hours.

All LUSH products are made fresh by hand, organic and vegetarian. Sounds good enough to eat!

Recipe for the perfect bubble bath: Butterball Bath Bomb, Figs & Leaves Soap, A Ring Of Roses Buttercream, Ceridwen’s Cauldron Bath Melt, Bathos Bubble Bar