How To: Twinkle Tips

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Recreate the twinkling fingertips from Jenny Packham F/W ’13. Perfect for upcoming holiday parties or just to add a little sparkle in your life.

This look can be done with any glitter nail polish. From silver to my personal favorite, Deborah Lippmann’s Superstar (copper) – find your favorite twinkle.

FAVORITES:

Deborah Lippmann’s in Ruby Red Slippers

Essie Luxeffects Top Coat in Set in Stones

Formula X for Sephora in Holiday Ornament

China Glaze in Mosaic Madness

HOW-TO:

1. Prep the nails with base coat.

2. Starting from the middle of the nail, draw light strokes with your favorite glitter polish – brushing up towards the edge.

3. Let set, and seal with top coat.

Nail Jelly: American Apparel Sheer Nail Lacquer

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American Apparel’s “Sheer” Nail Lacquer collection offers six beautifully bold glosses named after beloved California beaches. While the shades are uber vivid, they are sheer enough to layer, mix and match.

Moonlight Beach: royal blue

Redondo Beach: sky blue

Pacific Beach: turquoise

Zuma Beach: green/chartreuse

Manhattan Beach: fiery coral

Summerland Beach: light peach

The formula is thin but very pigmented. In about three coats – you can get full coverage. However, I love the one-two coats for a sheer jelly-like effect and sheer wash of color. Drying time is quick with a glossy finish. The formula has an average lifespan… a couple days – but chips are easily corrected with a brush-over as this polish is great for layering.

The new sheer lacquers are cruelty-free and available in retail American Apparel stores or online here.

Team Glow: Dior Lip & Nail Glow

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Create a natural glow with Dior’s new Lip Glow Color Reviver Gloss and Nail Glow Enhancer . These low-maintenance products create the “your lips/nails but better” look in seconds.

Dior Lip Glow Color Reviver Gloss is modelled after the brand’s beloved Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm. In one universal shade the color-adapting formula works with your body temperature to create a unique color. The formula has a subtle vanilla scent/flavor and is very moisturizing. It works with any skin tone and makes lips look flushed yet natural.

Dior Nail Glow Enhancer is a unique nail lacquer that enhances the color of your natural nails. When applied on bare nails, the pinks of the nails become pinker and the whites become whiter for a shining finish and healthy, glowing effect. This is a great everyday polish for those who love the “buff and shine” look. Nail Glow gives that extra oomph that a shiny top coat can’t pull off.

These products are great for when you want to go au naturale but need a little something extra.

DIY: China Glaze Ombré Nail Kits

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DIY manicures just got significantly more affordable and fun. Create an “ombré” effect on your nails with China Glaze Ombré Nail Kits.

Each kit features four China Glaze nail polishes, with great colors that can also be used on their own:

Sweet Sensations (Pink)

Includes: Angel’s Breath, Something Sweet, Dance Baby and Make An Entrance

Wait Teal You See (Teal)

Includes: White on White, For Audrey, Aquadelic and Turned Up Turquoise

Grape Expectation (Purple)

Includes: Sweet Hook, Spontaneous, Grape Pop and Crimson

Also included in the kit are 10 sponges and detailed instructions to create the ombré effect. Focus the fade on all of your nails or wear one color on each nail. Fade from darkest to lightest or accent with one nail designed with the ombré tip – the options are endless.

Exclusively sold at Sally Beauty Supply, each kit retails for $12.99. China Glaze is free of DBP, toluene, added formaldehyde and never tested on animals.

 

Spring Beauty: Mint

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Minty-fresh hues are not just for fashion, apply them to your beauty routine as well. Not only is it a fun pop of color, but this pale, cool-toned color has an immediate brightening effect.

Apply it all over the lid for a sheer wash of color or try the “Thin Mint” and line just under the eyes for a bright and instantly awake look. Both drugstore and luxury brands have a wonderful selection for a “Minty Mani” but if you feel bold and daring, wear this amazing Lime Crime lipstick in “Mint To Be.”

Here are a few of my favorites:

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics ~ Cosmetic Glitters in Mint: $14.00

bareMinerals ~ Velvet Eyeshadow in Velvet Pistachio: $14.00

NYX Cosmetics ~ Jumbo Eye Pencil in Horseradish: $4.50

China Glaze ~ Nail Lacquer in Re-Fresh Mint: $7.50

NARS Cosmetics ~ Eyeliner Pencil in Parrot Cay: $22.00

Illamasqua ~ Cream Pigment in Bedaub: $26.00

Lime Crime ~ Opaque Lipstick in Mint To Be: $15.99

Stila ~ Eye Shadow in Cha Cha: $18.00

Ellis Faas ~ Creamy Eyes in E117 Mint Green: $36.00

Glow-T 2012: Best in Beauty

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Happy New Year! As 2013 begins, I want to recap on my favorite beauty products of 2012. 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 2012Beauty Products:

Best BB Cream: Dior Hydra Life BB Cream

Best Cleansing Balm: REN No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm

Best Nail Polish: HIPPxRGB Nail Foundations

Best Skin Brand: Alpha-H

Best Minerals: PRIORI CoffeeBerry Perfecting Minerals

Best Lip Product: Yves Saint Laurent’s Rouge Pur Couture Vernis À Lèvres

Best Moisturizer: Dr. Jart+ Renewalist Melting Cream

Best Tinted Moisturizers: Jouer Luminizing and Matte Moisture Tint

Best Facial Mist: Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water

Best Eye Product: Kevyn Aucoin Loose Shimmer Shadows

Best Hair Product: Kérastase Grand Crus Oils 

Best Dry Shampoo: Kenra Dry Shampoo

Tried & Tested: LAYLA Softouch Effect Nail Polish

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LAYLA Cosmetics Softouch Effect Nail Polish is a new “soft textured” nail polish that lasts up to 10-15 days. This revolutionary formula is soft to the touch which makes application virtually goof-proof.

These fast-drying nail polishes do not need a top coat or base coat and come in 12 matte and shimmer colors: Marshmallow Twinkle, Golden Touch, Stone, Neon Pink, Cherry Diva, Limoncello, Fire it Up, Queen Bordeaux, Aqua Zen, Turquois Splash, Mudhattan and Noir Touch. The formula will not stain the nail and is free of toluene, camphor, formaldehyde and DBP.

Tried & Tested: Besides a shellac or minx manicure, (which I am not a fan – Read: HERE) this is the longest-lasting polish I have ever used. It dries almost like a gel and leaves a curious cushion/soft texture that instantly conceals any goofs and/or mistakes. Incredibly easy-to-apply, the polish seems to mold to the finger nail. The formula is opaque in just one coat, but perfect in two. I would not describe these polishes as matte. Most matte nail polishes are made with a powder substance, which is what gives them that slightly chalky look. LAYLA Softouch Effect contains a wax that creates more of a demi-matte finish.

A must-have for the girl painting her nails while running out of the house (me…sigh). LAYLA Softouch Effect dries almost instantly and any bumps or dings can be “massaged” back to new.

ABOUT LAYLA COSMETICS:

LAYLA Cosmetics is an Italian company based in Milan, the capital of fashion, and was the first to introduce nail polish in Italy. Now, the company features a wide range of nail polishes and makeup products. LAYLA Cosmetics can satisfy the nail polish needs and desires of every woman, from the sophisticated business woman to the young, artsy college student.

LAYLA Cosmetics is also one of the first brands to create magnetic nail polish. Their revolutionary Magneffect Nail Polish was formulated to react to the magnet on its cap, creating instant, three-dimensional designs in seconds. The quick drying, high-shine finish requires no base coat, and is easily removed with nail-polish remover. Basically, LAYLA Cosmetics created imaginative fun in a bottle.

Not only will your nails sparkle with spectacular shine and uniquely captivating colors, but all of LAYLA’s nail polishes are formulated without formaldehyde, toluene and DBP, and they’re never tested on animals. So, whether you’re looking for unique nail polishes or a fast-drying top coat, LAYLA Cosmetics has the perfect product for you!

Countdown Calendar: Ciaté Mini Mani Set

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An Advent calendar is used to count or celebrate the days in anticipation of Christmas. The days often overlap with the Christian season of Advent. Despite the name, most commercially available Advent calendars begin on December 1, regardless of when Advent begins, which can be as early as November 27 and as late as December 3. One window is opened every day leading up to Christmas. The calendar windows can be filled with a variety of small gifts: toys, chocolate, poems… nail polish!

Behind each door of the Ciaté Mini Mani Set is one of Ciaté’s bestselling mini Paint Pot. Uncover 17 mini Paint Pots, four mini Caviar blends, and three exclusive Paint Pot glitter shades in this one-of-a-kind advent calendar.

Touted by press as “nail innovators,” Ciaté is certified as a 3 FREE brand. Which means no Dibutyl-Phthalate, Toluene or Formaldehyde. Ciaté’s Paint Pots are amazingly pigmented, long-lasting and a cinch to apply.

Fill each day of December with a colorful surprise. This unique advent calendar will keep your nails colorful all-year-round.

Four Favorites: Multi-Purpose Balm

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More concentrated than most creams or lotions, these versatile salves can tackle two or more problems at once. Great to keep on your nightstand or in your handbag/gymbag these multi-purpose balms will cure – honestly – whatever ails you… soothe cracked heels, chapped knuckles, sunburn, windburn, minor scrapes, post-peel irritation, skin irritation, chafing, chapped nose, scratches, dry elbows, rough cuticles, between toes, post-wax skin, post-shave skin, dry patches, earlobes, blisters, ring fingers, tattoos, hairline prior to coloring, stretch marks. extra dewiness, tame flyaways, rebellious eyebrows, makeup mistakes and split ends. Whew!

Here are my current four favorites:

Rodial Glam Balm MULTI: A brilliant multi-use anti-aging balm that feels luxurious and solves all manner of beauty woes from flaking skin to dry knees. This cult product has been ordained “The Swiss Army Knife of Beauty Products,” for it’s wide variety of uses. The new formula “MULTI” has added the anti-aging benefits of 3D Hyaluronic Filling Spheres to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Favorite use: In-flight moisturizing mask. FULL REVIEW OF RODIAL GLAM BALM: HERE

Egyptian Magic: Living up to it’s namesake, this olive oil and honey-based balm works magic on elbows, knees and everything in between. Formulated with all-natural ingredients this magical balm has been used for centuries to care for and nourish the skin. Favorite use: a moisturizer to help extend your summer tan. FULL REVIEW OF EGYPTIAN MAGIC: HERE

Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm for Lips: (Yes, you read that right…) Recommended by midwives, this balm was originally designed to relieve the dry, painful nipples associated with breastfeeding. Makeup artists discovered many other uses: hydrating skin and lips on the fly/highlighting cheek bones/eye gloss – and it soon became an industry secret. Formulated with 100% medical-grade lanolin, this balm reduces skin roughness by up to 40% in an hour. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any moisture from escaping or bacteria from entering. Favorite use: Eye cream.

The Balm – By Nieves:  This concentrated balm is made with all-natural ingredients that moisturize, heal and soothe the skin; softening coconut oil, antioxidant-rich sesame oil, calming virginia cedar, healing lavender and balancing ylang ylang. Orange extract releases an uplifting and zesty aroma and provides a healthy glow to the skin and hair. The buttery texture melts effortlessly into the skin restoring softness and elasticity immediately. Great for both man and woman, The Balm is safe to use anywhere on the body. Favorite use: Moisturize dry ends and fix fly-aways.

Inspiration: Olympic Gold

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Go for the gold! Inspired by the 2012 Summer Olympics, here are a few gold metals:

Estee Lauder ~ Pure Color Gelee Powder Eyeshadow in Cyber Gold: $24.00 

Dior ~ Vernis – Golden Jungle Nail Enamel: $23.00

Illamasqua ~ Liquid Metal in Solstice: $26.00

Tom Ford ~ Lip Lacquer in Gold Dust: $30.00

Bobbi Brown ~ Shimmer Brick Compact – Gold: $40.00

Stila ~ Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Koi: $8.00 (sale)

The Master List: SPACE.NK Event

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Last night I had the privilege of attending a wonderful event at SPACE.NK Costa Mesa hosted by local blogger and friend, Sarah Ollenberger of Juggling in Heels.

SPACE.NK is a luxury beauty retail (located inside Bloomingdales and stand-alone) filled with a well-edited selection of hard-to-find beauty products. Nicky Kinnaird, founder and the initials behind SPACE.NK, taught a master class revealing her must-have beauty products for summer. A weath of knowledge and experience, Nicky Kinnaird travels the world searching for the latest and greatest in beauty. The Master List is compiled of Nicky’s go-to products for protecting, enhancing and beautifying this summer.

THE MASTER LIST:

Eve Lom Treatment Cleanser: This cult favorite is your makeup remover, cleanser, toner, mild exfoliant, skin re-texturizer and brightener in a jar. (One of my favorites: review here)

Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads: A one-step exfoliator that evens out skin tone and minimizes pores.

Cane + Austin Retexturizing Body Pads: Glycolic treatment pads reveal a brighter, smoother body complexion while helping to rebuild collagen and firm the skin.

Ren Bio Retinoid Anti-Aging Concentrate: Retinol-like results without the irritation.

Bakel P-Lipic Serum: Deeply hydrating, skin strengthening serum that protects against free radical-damage.

Zelens Triple-Action Eye Cream: Hydrates, smoothes, lifts and minimized the appearance of dark circles.

37 Extreme Actives: The cream that does it all – eyes, face, neck… morning and evening.

Zelens 31 Complex Essential Anti-Aging Cream: Deeply hydrating antioxidant-loaded formula helps to minimize visible signs of aging.

By Terry Baume de Rose SPF15: Cult lip treatment that doubles as a cuticle cream.

NIA 24 Rapid Repigmentation Serum: Best to even out skin tone, addresses sun damage, freckles and age spots.

NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen: SPF 30, this oil-free formula contains 5%Pro-Niacin to strengthen skin and help repair sun damage. (One of my favorites-review here)

Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer: Keeps makeup fresh all day long.

By Terry Hyaluronic Eye Primer: Keeps eye makeup color true and fresh without caking or creasing all day.

By Terry Touche Veloutee: The perfect highlighting concealer brush. It instantly sweeps away any signs of fatigue, redness and minor imperfections. (One of my favorites: review here)

By Terry Terrybly Mascara: Lash growth boosting mascara.

Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler: The best one out there.

Kevyn Aucoin Volumizing Mascara: Never smudges, never flakes, sweat-proof yet washes off with water.

Kevyn Aucoin Lip Glosses: On trend colors with a unique chubby applicator that mimics a makeup artist’s pinky.

Rococo Nail Apparel: Fashion-forward colors for the season: Lady Lavender (on trend lavender), T-Cup (vintage baby blue), VIP Red (the perfect red), Wild Roses (hot fuchsia pink).

Oribe Apres Beach Spray: Texturizing spray for tousled, touchable waves and sun-kissed shine.

Oribe Maximista: Maximum volume with thermal protection, gives enduring lify and hold.

Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray: Conceived and tested in Miami.

Institut Esthederm Bronz Repair Anti-Wrinkle Tanning Cream: Cult French anti-aging sunscreen for face.

Institut Esthederm Adaptasun Sea & Tropics Tanning Body Lotion: For safe tanning under extreme sun.

Life NK Japanese Wash Cloth: Unique textured cloth makes all-over body exfolliation simple.

Beautannia Brighton Bath & Shower Gel: Addictively scented paraben-free hydrating body cleanser scented with grapefruit, orris, sea moss and vetiver.

Beautannia Brighton Body Lotion: Moisturize, soften and protect the skin while polypeptides encourage firmness.

Sai-Sei Mineral Revive Body Veil: Super lightweight hydrating body veil with essential minerals from Japan’s Toyama hot springs.

David Kirsch Thermo Bubbles: Thermogenic blend of vitamins, minerals and herbs to help boost metabolism, curb your appetite and promote lean muscle mass.

David Kirsch Ultimate Detox Diet: Comprehensive detox and nutrition system that helps to jumpstart your wellness routine.

Sunday Riley Liquid Diet: Helps relieve swelling, bloating and puffiness, and smooth the appearance of cellulite.

In Peace eau de parfum: A sophisticated yet serence white floral perfume that blends freesia and pimento flower blossom with French iris and mimosa in a sunsual base of sandalwood and tonka bean. Created in partner ship with Women for Women International, 10% of proceeds benefits their sponsorship program for women survivors of war to enable them to rebuild their lives.

Nude Attitude: HIPPxRGB Nail Foundations

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In the summer I love a brightly-colored nail. From trendy neons to tropical-inspired corals, warm weather feeds this need. However, there is nothing like the perfect nude nail polish. A polish that will never go out of style and will flatter and enhance your skin tone all-year-round. If you have ever searched for this unicorn, you know how difficult it is to find.

Last year, Celebrity Nail Stylist Jenna Hipp teamed up with RGB founder Gina Carney to create HIPPxRGB, the first skin tone specific, full coverage, all nude nail color collection. Similar to the concept of foundation for the face, Nail Foundation is the first nail color of its kind designed to match and compliment for a flawless even finish. Available in four shades – F1, F2, F3, & F4 -, Nail Foundation can be applied with two coats or worn under a favorite neutral for a custom blend with added coverage.

Genius. The only word to describe. I mix F1 and F2 to concoct the perfect nude for my skintone. By the end of summer, I may need to add a drop of F3. I love the alchemy involved with these polishes. Mix and match shades for warmer or cooler tones, depending on the season.

ABOUT RGB:

Stands for: The RGB color model is an additive color model in which red, green, and blue light are added together in various ways to reproduce a broad array of colors. The name of the model comes from the initials of the three additive primary colors, red, green, and blue.

RGB is a product line dedicated solely to nail color and care. RGB creates nail color as an extension of one’s wardrobe; we use color as an accessory. It started with the RGB Ten collection: ten iconic colors with a modern edge. Each shade is our sharp take on a classic with a straightforward name to match. While the classic ten will always remain the same, new colors are added seasonally. The chip-resistant and high shine formula is free of harmful chemicals. There is no Formaldehyde, Toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate), Formaldehyde Resin, or Camphor in RGB products.

Healthy Skin from Within: Nordic Naturals Complete Omega – 3.6.9

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There are a million reasons to take an omega-3 supplement everyday. One of the many is that EFAs or essential fatty acids control a large number of cellular processes in the body that directly relate to the health of your skin, hair and nails. Before I get to that, let’s look at the numerous benefits of fish oil.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are considered “essential fats” because they are required for optimal health but cannot be produced by the body. EFAs can be found in fish, flaxseeds, walnuts and canola. Fish oil supplies the most beneficial omega-3s, which are: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Eating actual fish (mostly oily, cold water fish like salmon, tuna, herring and sardines) is the best food source of EPA and DHA, but due to concerns about toxins such as mercury, a fish oil supplement is the safest source.

OMEGA-3:  EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

*Healthy heart and body*

• Maintains a healthy heart and circulatory system
• Enhances joint flexibility and movement
• Promotes healthy immune function
• Supports optimal metabolism and body composition
• Promotes balanced blood sugar levels
• Supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response

OMEGA-3:  DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

*Healthy mood, mind and memory*

• Supports learning and memory
• Promotes positive mood and well-being
• Supports and protects the brain, eyes, nervous and immune systems
• Essential for the proper development of infants and children
• Recommended by physicians for pregnant and lactating women

OMEGA-6:  GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)

*Healthy skin, hair and hormones*

• Nourishes hair and skin
• Supports healthy joints
• Enhances Hormonal Balance
• Maintains optimal body fat metabolism
• Supports positive mood
• Supports a regular menstrual cycle

OMEGA-9:  OA (Oleic Acid)

*Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels*

• Naturally occurs in fish oil
• A “good for you: omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid
• Supports healthy blood vessel function
• Promotes healthy cell membrane structure

Healthy Skin from Within:

Our skin cells need plenty of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Without these, our skin can become dry, dull, prone to premature aging and even inflamed. There are two key essential fatty acids that your skin and hair will love. Since your body doesn’t manufacture them, they must be sourced through food and/or supplements.

Omega-3s in fish oil have been shown to:

• Keep the skin hydrated thus helping to prevent dry skin and other skin conditions
• Help soothe scaly, rough skin by reducing unnecessary inflammation
• Improve blood flow and support the elasticity of red blood cells thereby providing more oxygen to nourish the skin
• Encourage the production of strong collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis making skin look younger by reducing wrinkling and sagging

GLA is an Omega-6 fatty acid that occurs naturally in evening primrose and borage oils and has shown to:

• Relieve dry skin
• Reduce hair loss
• Provide relief for eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Your skin is the largest organ in the body and allows approximately 60% of “what goes on it, to go inside it”. Anything that increases the body’s ability to maintain integrity in our highly polluted world is a plus for your beauty routine.

Nordic Naturals is the leading manufacturer of fish oil in the United States. They are committed to delivering the world’s safest, most effective omega oils. The Complete Omega – 3.6.9 is an omega-rich blend that contains all the needed ingredients to support heart health, brain function, positive mood, healthy joints, as well as healthy hair, skin and nails. It has a fresh lemon taste that ensures no fishy smell, taste or aftertaste and all research is based on third-party test results – resulting in an honest and pure product. You will not find a better fish oil than Nordic Naturals.

Tangy Trend: Orange Nails

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This summer change up your lacquer collection with unexpected vibrant hues. Accessorize your fingers and toes with zesty shades of orange. This attention-getting hue comes in many energetic forms; bright coral, firey red, neon, tangerine – a hint of orange is a hot shade for summer.

Summer is synonymous with vibrant color and tanned skin. Express your personal style with loud, fun nail shades. Orange will work on every skin tone and looks incredible on bronzed, sun-kissed skin. These four zesty hues will set tanned skin on fire.

Illamasqua ~ Whack: $21.43

RGB ~ Coral: $16.00

Chanel ~ Holiday: $26.00

Dior ~ Psychedelic Orange: $23.00

Peppermint Patty: Chanel Le Vernis – Jade

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In honor of St. Patricks Day, I bring you Chanel Le Vernis in Jade. Launched in 2009, it might be as impossible to get today, as it was at the release. I apologize and will provide dupes at the end.

I have had this color in my collection for quite some time and it seems to always make an appearance this time of year. A perfect pistachio hue with a dash of shimmer is what makes this polish so coveted.

Have a safe and wonderful weekend!

DUPES: Illamasqua: Milf, Milani: DressMaker, Sephora by OPI: Read My Palm, Essie: Mint Candy Apple

Drugstore Find: Spoiled Nail Color

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While picking up a few necessities at CVS, I stumbled upon a promotional stand for Spoiled Nail Color. Manufactured by Wet-n-Wild Cosmetics, these polishes are exclusive to CVS and retail for $1.99…

I was immediately attracted to a color called Flamingo Pink. The formula is opaque and very true to color. One coat was all that was needed, but due to the price point I thought two coats might have more staying-power. Applied on toes and fingers, one week later, my toes are unblemished and my fingers are just now beginning to chip.

The only setback is the brush. A thick brush, (similar to Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure) but with a weird tapered end. The edge of the brush can be a little awkward, but ignored, due to the $1.99 price tag.

Available in 72 colors, Spoiled Nail Color is truly a great buy. From trendy neon shades to glittery sparkles, one is bound to find a shade worthy of the $1.99 investment.

Glow-T Gift Guide: Nails

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Glow-T’s Gift Guide begins with holiday sets for the lacquer-lover in your life. Instead of purchasing a single polish, make the most of these festive deals and grab a gift set. The holiday packaging and sparkling colors will make anyone mad for manicures.

TIP: Stretch these holiday sets by divvying them up. Use the mini nail polishes as gift-toppers to add something extra. Or make each one into tiny ornaments by adding a simple bow and hand out to friends and family.

Happy Holidays!

Neiman Marcus ~ NARS Kabuki Mini Nail Polish Coffret: $35.00

Sephora ~ Sephora by OPI Glimmer Wonderland Eighteen Piece Mini Nail Color Set: $48.00

Nordstrom ~ Le Métier de Beauté ‘Rock ‘n’ Romance’ Mini Nail Lacquer Set: $25.oo

Ulta ~ Butter London Dressing Table Duo Black Knight & Tart w/Heart: $25.00

Nordstrom ~ Yves Saint Laurent Holiday Nail Trio: $45.00

Beauty Bar ~ Deborah Lippmann Get This Party Started Set: $42.00

Tuxedo Manicure – YSL Le Smoking Holiday Collection

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Yves Saint Laurent Le Smoking

Yves Saint Laurent’s Holiday Collection “Le Smoking” is arriving soon. Perfect for party season, the collection features timeless colors of blacks, whites, silvers and golds.

Available in November, the limited-edition Manicure Collection, Le Manicure Le Smoking is a tuxedo-inspired nail duo that features two deep black nail varnishes – one matte/one shiny. By using both polishes – matte base and shiny tips or shiny base and matte tips – you will be left with a modern, eye-catching french manicure for the holidays.

NYFW Spring 2012: Best in Beauty

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Glow-T’s Best in Beauty for New York Fashion Week Spring 2012 .

Best in Hair ~ Jill Stuart: Inspired by fairytales, the hair appeared feminine, youthful and bohemian. Kerastase added texture, volume and a significant side sweep part that gives the illusion of bangs.

Best in Makeup ~ Lela Rose: Inspired by sin city, this look is fresh and glamourous. Bare Escentuals transitions Fall’s metallic trend to Spring with a new pressed eyeshadow-quad used in the show. I am loving the combination of metallic-toned eyes paired with sun-kissed skin.

Best in Nails ~ Wes Gordon: Inspired by powerful women, CND nailpolish used the color Poppyfield, a nearly-neon, coral color. This shade is energetic and potent. Continuing a Fall trend of matchy-matchy makeup, a parallel lip and cheek stain is used.

Ridge Filler Benefits: Deborah Lippmann

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Deborah Lippmann Ridge Filler

Once your nails form ridges, you will unfortunately have them forever. They are caused by genetics, trauma and aging. Using a ridge filler as a base coat can help repair and make them less noticeable.

When applying a ridge filler, the silica and silk fibers fill-in ridges to create a smooth foundation for nail polish to hold on to. It creates long-lasting manicures and forms an amazing base.

When wearing dark-colored nail polish, it is a difficult task not to stain the cuticles. When applying a ridge filler, it forms a pocket for the nail polish to adhere to. This “cupping” ensures perfect application that won’t stain the cuticles.

Most ridge fillers, like the Deborah Lippmann, are an opaque, off-white matte color. When using this prior to applying any nail polish, the color will be true and more vibrant. In the past, I have used a white base coat for this reason, I have now found that using a ridge filler provides more natural benefits.

Lastly, this ridge filler by Deborah Lippmann looks great on it’s own. Deborah Lippmann, manicurist to the stars, has used this ridge filler in many fashion shows and events. It provides a modern-matte natural nail look.