At-Home Hair Color

Revlon Color Silk: $3.99 (drugstores)
Click here to be directed to the Revlon color match chart

I generally get my hair colored and highlighted professionally, but there are those times when I just can't get to my hairdresser! When I'm in desperate need of a quick hair color fix, Revlon ColorSilk is awesome...and, boy is it cheap! I've found that brunette's generally have a harder time finding the right color to match when out of a box. Often times, it can be too severe or dark or a lot of red is added to your overall color, even if you started with brown or black hair. The cool thing about this particular brand is that it just gives you a subtle color change without being too dramatic. Even for women with really dark black hair, one application of this will gently highlight your hair. You might not notice the results immediately, but you definitely will over several washes and when out in the sun. It's semi-permanent, ammonia-free and is pretty good at covering stubborn grey hairs. I have naturally dark brown hair and use "Light Ash Brown" which gives me that perfect medium, golden-brown color.

elf Studio HD Powder

Elf High Definition Powder: $6.00

High-definition makeup isn't only for celebs on TV and the big screen anymore. With everything becoming HD these days, many makeup brands have followed suit by making the necessary changes to their products to ensure every person can achieve a flawless look...even more affordable brands! You don't have to spend a ridiculous amount of money to get HD quality products. Although I love elf cosmetics for being so friendly to my pocket, I haven't always been a fan of their products--that was until they launched their Studio line, which caters to the more "professional" consumer. This HD powder is made with Silica, which is known to help diffuse any fine lines or wrinkles that other powders may actually bring more attention to. It has a very silky, smooth texture that feels great on your skin. Just be careful not to be too heavy-handed with your application. It's stark white powder, so use it sparingly and you'll notice the effects within minutes of putting it on and even moreso with every use.

Here's what all the HD hype is about: When working with HD cameras, every wrinkle, crease and imperfection become visible and the makeup you try to cake on to hide this becomes even more visible than the blemish itself! To avoid this, HD makeup is formulated to be more sheer, but it still hides all your problem areas.

Beauty tip: I highly recommend using a large powder or kabuki brush to apply this. Don't use the little powder puff it comes with..it's too messy and won't give you an even finish. Use a small eyeshadow brush or applicator sponge for small areas like under your eyes or around your mouth where laugh lines form.

*IMPORTANT NOTE (taken from thebeautybrains.com): Some argue that silica based products aren't safe, but the kind of silica powder used in cosmetics is not a problem. Hydrated silica (aka silicone dioxide) is a mineral used in many mineral makeup products.This type of silica doesn’t react with lung tissue like the crystalline form does so these products are safe to use. Additional information on hydrated silica can be found at Cosmeticsinfo.org. (Cosmeticsinfo.org includes factual, scientific information on ingredients most commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products in the United States)

At-Home Facial Peel

Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Acne Mark Fading Peel: $29.99 (Amazon.com)

I'm always on the lookout for great "at home" products because I feel like I never have the time to actually go to a spa or salon and get facials or treatments done! Also, I've noticed since my skin is pretty sensitive, I sometimes like doing facials myself because if I feel it's too abrasive or irritating, I can stop right after starting. This peel by Neutrogena is a quiet, but powerful product. It's been on the scene for several years, but you don't hear too much chatter about it. I really, really like it. It wakes my skin up and provides an even skin tone when used regularly (2-3 times a week). Also, if you're a zit picker like me (I know..so bad), blemishes can leave marks. This peel really does lighten post-acne marks and skin discoloration such as rosacea. Also, I only could find the product online for $29.00, but I purchase it at Target for around $15.00, so check your local drugstore before buying online if you're interested!

Here's a little product description off the Neutrogena website: Use regularly and experience clearer, smoother, more even-toned skin.Inspired by dermatologist facial peels, this breakthrough formula is the first at-home peel of its kind containing a unique combination Neutrogena-exclusive CelluZyme® technology and Salicylic Acid. It treats acne and reduces the appearance of post-acne marks while working to help prevent new breakouts from forming and discouraging future marks. Use 1-3 times per week regularly for clearer, fresher, more even-toned skin.

Friday Fun Fact: Eyebrow Extensions

Click Here to read Marie Claire's Article on Bold Brows

Most women have heard of eyelash extensions, but did you know there's a new craze for eyebrow extensions? It's costly and pretty new, but it could save women a ton of time when trying to fill in their brows on a daily basis. Not all women need more hair on their brows, I'm constantly trimming mine! But, for those of us that are interested in bolder brows, here's a semi-permanent option. And, I'm sure it's only time until this procedure is seen all around the country and offered in your local salon, so keep your eyes open if you're interested!

Here's how it works: the extensions are individual hairs that are meticulously attached to your real ones with surgical-grade superglue — like false lashes but for brows. The only downside is that the results only last 14 days. But, with today's technology this is bound to change!

Adorable Dress for Less

Lulus.com: $48.00

This is a super cute dress that is very reminiscent of a dress that has recently been worn by many celebs on the red carpet.

Shadow Shields

Shadow Shields: $9.99 (www.dermstore.com)

Ever tried to do a really cool smokey eye and realized that you ended up getting just as much shadow below your eye than you did on your lid?! It's so frustrating, especially after you apply your foundation and concealer. Some people prefer putting on their eyeshadow first for this very reason- to prevent eyeshadow fall-out. But, if you're like me, you like to create a clean canvas before starting on your eyes. Well, have no fear ladies, Shadow Shields is here. This is a little secret tool I use with most of my clients when doing a dramatic eye. These disposable self-adhesives gently stick under eyes to catch falling pigment during eye makeup application. And, they won't pull at your skin or remove makeup you've already applied.

UPDATE: Ladies that Love the Lakers

Forever 21: $13.80

Forever 21: $14.80

Forever 21 has 2 more adorable Laker tanks featured on their site in addition to the purple one I posted yesterday:

Flowers for Your Hair

Single Cream Moon Orchid Silk Flower: $26.00
*Click on image to visit website

Many brides love accessoring their wedding day hairstyles with flowers. They make any hairstyle romantic and etheral. One common question is whether or not to use real or fake flowers. Ideally, we would be able to wear real flowers in our hair, but it's always a big risk--flowers can wilt, turn brown and fall out. No one wants their wedding portraits to feature a dull, lifeless flower. Silk, clip in flowers are a fantastic alternative to the real thing, and wow, do they look real! They stay in all day and night because they're clip-ons and they won't lose life or color.

Ladies that Love the Lakers!

Forever 21: $14.80

This tank is just too cute! I got a vintage Magic Johnson tee from Forever 21 a few years back and received so many compliments on it, so I jumped at the opportunity to add to my collection. For all of those that love the Lakers, or have husbands/boyfriends that love them, this Laker Nation racer tank is definitely worth the $15 bucks! Plus it's adorable =)

No More Concealer Creases!

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder: $22

It's happened to all of us at one time or another- you put on your under eye concealer and it looks perfect when you leave the house, and just a few hours later, it's smudged or creases have formed. This truly is a secret weapon at preventing any creasing under your eyes. After applying your concealer, dab a small brush into the powder and lightly tap of any excess. Then swipe right under your lash line down and across your entire eye.

*Alternative tip: If you don't want to spend this much on a powder just for your undereyes, Sonia Kashuk has a great loose powder that can also help set your concealer. Just match the closest color to your skin tone.

Sonia Kashuk Barely There Loose Powder: $8.99 (at Target)

The J-Lo Glow

Cargo Multi-Mix Bronzer: $28.00 ($18.99 on Ebay)

I think every woman has tried or at least wanted to achieve that golden glow Jennifer Lopez has become famous for ever since she graduated from being a Fly Girl back in the day. I've tried everything from powder bronzers to self-tanners, but nothing seems to really bring out that golden goddess look out. I received this Cargo Mulit-Mix Bronzer in an industry goody bag a few months back and have since fell in love. The multi-mix bronzer is paraben and oil free and also has vitamin E which provides great moisture.

It's in liquid form and very easy to use. You can wear it alone to get that sun-kissed, dewy look or, what I like to do is mix it into my foundation to provide an all over glow. Don't put on too much though because it's pretty dark. I'd say a quarter of what you put on in place of your foundation. It gives you a golden goddess look..you know the one where people ask, "did you do something different?" Or, "You look really rested and refreshed!"

Like other bronzers, it does have a little shimmer, but it's not what you think. It's so subtle and hardly noticeable and literally just makes you glow, like our girl JLo! Also, I've noticed that some powder bronzers can actually magnify wrinkles and imperfections, this definitely just makes you golden!

*Beauty tip: Use a brush like the one below from Sigma (Sigma SS188) or theMAC 188 to apply your liquid foundation. It's great when mixing different colors and helps you apply your foundation evenly. Start by dabbing all over your face then use circular motions to blend the foundation.

Mary Kay? No Way!

Mary Kay Signature Concealer: $10.00

I was a skeptic when someone introduced me to Mary Kay's Signature Concealer, not because I didn't think it would work, but just because I always associated Mary Kay with my mother's generation of makeup. So I thought it would be dated and not something I'd like. Boy, was I wrong. This concealer is so creamy and light--a little goes a long way. It comes in 7 different colors to choose from so there's something for everyone. The color "yellow" is great to brighten the undereye area, but if you have darker skin or dark under eye circles, you will want to mix this in with a darker concealer so it matches your skin tone. *Beauty tip: When applying creamy liquid concealers like this, squeeze a pin-size amount on your index finger and dot it under your eyes from the inner corner of your eye to the outermost part. Then blend with your finger in a patting motion. Your finger provides natural heat which will allow the concealer to be applied more evenly. If you're not comfortable with using your finger, a sponge or foundation brush will do the trick as well, just make sure you pat so you're not removing or wiping off the concealer you just applied.

Lashes for Less

Ardell Invisibands Eyelashes: $3.99

If you like the look of full, lush lashes but don't want to break the bank while doing so, try Ardell's Invisibands. These are amazing lashes that not only cost a fraction of MAC eyelashes, but I actually prefer the "Beauties" to any other brand when applying lashes to my brides. They're natural looking but provide that extra oomph and glamour every bride wants. They come in all different styles, but the beauties are the most natural looking for me. Also, the Invisiband allows the lashes to be easy to remove without pulling or tugging at your real lashes.

Everything Eyebrows

Cost: $4.99

Clear mascara is a fantastic alternative to more expensive eyebrow gel. Cover Girl makes one that doesn't get flaky or leave a sticky residue once dry. It helps keep stubborn stray eyebrow hairs in place all day long.

*Beauty tip: Instead of penciling in eyebrows or filling them in with a pencil try using a little bit of brown or black eyeshadow on top of the clear mascara. This will help better define your brows without getting that harsh, fake eyebrow look. Plus the mascara will help keep the color from running or smearing.

Sigma Makeup Brushes- As Good as MAC but Cheaper!

Sigma Makeup Face & Eyes Kit: $49

Where to buy: http://www.sigmamakeup.com/

Every girl probably has at least one MAC makeup brush, but they can definitely get pricey. These hand-made brushes by Sigma Makeup are fantastic in quality and provide the same if not even better results than some MAC brushes (in my opinion). The Face & Eyes kit provides the 6 most essential brushes to complete any makeup look, and they're professional! The packaging is super cute too which is an added bonus.

*My favorite brushes are the small angle brush used to apply gel or cream eyeliner and the pencil brush which is used to blend dark colors in your crease

The Yummiest Snack Ever! Kashi TLC Fruit & Grain Bars

I know this isn't a beauty product, but I had to share the tastiest, low-calorie treat ever. Kashi's TLC Fruit & Grain bars are delicious and only 120 calories each with 4g of protein. The Dark Chocolate Coconut is rich and truly satisfying for all you chocolate lovers. The Chocolate Rasberry is also a favorite of mine that serves as the perfect snack!

Keep Your Curls..All Day Long!

Cost: $26.99 (cheaper at Bed, Bath & Beyond and Drugstore.com)

The number one thing I'm told by my clients when doing their hair is that curls just don't last for them. I found this little gem a few years back when I was traveling and needed a cheap curling iron for the duration of my trip. Little did I know that this 1" Conair Infiniti curling iron would turn out to be my favorite styling tool to date. Not only does it keep curls in all day but it works on almost every hair type- super curly, super straight, frizzy or wavy. It's also ceramic, so safe to use frequently, or even daily. I have tested out many different curling irons ranging from every price range, and this is truly my favorite. It also comes with a protective heat cover and automatic power (for those of us that forget to turn off our electornics!).

*Styling tip: If you try the Conair Infiniti and still find it difficult to keep lasting curls, try pinning curls to your head after curling. Let them set for about 10-15 minutes while you apply your makeup or do something else, then let them out. Use your fingers to separate curls and even go over super tight curls with the curling iron. It may take a few minutes for the curls to loosen up, but they'll last all day!

My Mom's Secret Weapon- Vitamin E

Cost: $1.99

Many people already know that Vitamin E is a great product to help promote healthy, even-toned skin. But, most people I talk to take the supplements or squeeze the ointment from the little tablets to use as topically. Since I was very little, my mom always made me wear Vitamin E ointment, not lotion or cream, but ointment to bed. I didn't get it back then, but now I see it's benefits. It not only leaves my skin softer and my complexion clearer, but it gets rid of scars! Back when I was a tom boy, it would gradually lighten scars left from playing bumper bikes. Today, it helps get rid of scarring from picking zits, waxing, and even cuts from threading my eyebrows. And, it can be used anywhere.

One thing is that the consistency is almost like Vaseline, so it's best used sparingly and also most practical to use at night when you won't be wearing any makeup. But it's not for everyone..if you have very oily skin, it's worth a try, but your skin may not agree with it. Either way, it's worth a shot at $1.99 a pop and can be found at your local GNC.

*This is just my personal point of view and everyone's skin is different so people may react differently to this and any other product I list

A Perfect Primer on a Budget

Cost: $12.99 (at drugstores)

I read about Loreal's new, more professional "Studio Secrets" line awhile back and was eager to test out some of their products. Some people may not even think primers are necessary, and they truly aren't for everyone. But, they have been all the rage recently, so I've been doing a lot of research and testing on them.

For some background, most primers are made with silicone ingredients, which are mainly used to help makeup go on more evenly, and most importantly, help makeup last longer. If your skin tends to be normal (lucky you!) and not too dry or not too oily, you're probably ok without a primer. But for the rest of us, this is a perfect solution to help even out your face, or base, as I like to call it before applying the rest of your makeup.

Now, on to the product. Loreal's Studio Secrets Smoothing Resurfacing Primer is really great. The description statest that the primer "masks wrinkles and uneven textures in the skin, making the complexion feel smooth and soft, with a remarkable velvety touch." This holds up to be true on all fronts. I tend to have more dry than oily skin so a moisturizer is always required to hydrate my skin. I decided to test the primer without putting anything else on my face and it was so soft. It's foamy consistency glided on really smoothly and it really did offer a nice, even base for me to start with.

One con that I would point out is that because it comes in a little jar which requires you to touch the product with your finger each time you apply, perhaps a brush or little scooper would help keep the product hygienical and prevent any bacteria from forming. If only this came in a pump...it would be perfect!

Other Studio Secret Primers that are available (I haven't tried these yet). One offers Anti-dullness while the other 2 are Anti-Dull Skin for different skin tones: