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Create Stunning Oscar Hair Looks…at home with Pureology

24 Feb Christina Carathanassis

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Oscar night is upon us! Get yourself red-carpet ready to watch the show, with these amazing, hair-how-to’s from Pureology Artistic Ambassador Natasha Sunshine. Easy to achieve in the comfort of your own home…

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Oscar Hair: Boho Downstyle
by Pureology Artistic Ambassador Natasha Sunshine

Boho Downstyle: This undone style will turn heads and is quick and easy to achieve.

  1. Start with day old hair for a lived-in texture. Scrunch in Anti-Breakage Twist throughout.
  2. Using a 1 ½-2″ curling iron, wrap hair around the iron changing direction on each section until entire head is set.
  3. Once again, scrunch entire head to blend waves. Add additional Anti-Breakage Twist for silkier texture to give additional body and Cuticle Polisher for thicker hair textures to add shine.
  4. Braid the center braid down the back keeping the hair very loose at the roots. Add each side braid in to meet at the back-center of the head. Create a messy bun. Secure grips with an X shape under bun for added security and hold.
  5. Give a final spray with Strengthening Control hairspray.

Hot Tip: This style can skip the braid if need be. It looks fantastic both ways.

Undone Braided Chignon: Get that princess sophistication with a messy spin on the chignon.

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Oscar Hair: Undone Braided Chignon
by Pureology Artistic Ambassador
Natasha Sunshine

  1. Starting with wet hair, apply a dollop-size of Nourishing Nectar throughout.
  2. Rough dry hair until 100% dry.
  3. Choose a side or middle part and French-braid front portion to the ear then continue a regular braid to tips.
  4. Lace or tease hair from the middle back to ends and spray with Strengthening Control hairspray.
  5. Scrunch the back hair into a messy bun and secure using your grips in an X fashion. Continue placing hair until all hair is secured up and feels like it will last the evening. 
  6. Finish with a final dousing of Strengthening Control Hairspray.

Hot Tip: If hair is extra silky, you may set hair using steps 1-3 from the Boho Downstyle.

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Be My Valentine, Essie…

13 Feb

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

christina carathanassis

I Heart Essie…
Photo Credit: Matthew Degnan
Essie in Jelly Apply featured on toes

I’ve had a lifetime love affair with Essie nai l polish…when I think of the easiest way to make myself feel pretty, I put on my favorite gloss (Chanel Glossimer in #106  MYRIADE) and grab my Essie-du-jour and hop over to see Sam to get a pedicure.

Essie: Tiny Wine-yPhotography: Matthew Degnan

Essie: Tiny Wine-y
Photography: Matthew Degnan

In the summer, toe cleavage and show-stopping shades are on display 24/7. In the winter, however,  my toe polish acts as my covert, undercover sexy-weapon…just like my lingerie. Little secret nail-beds of sass…waiting to wow you.  What does she have on underneath?  When she slips off those Louboutins, will her toes match her soles? YES and I can assure you, it is Essie (and every shoe sales person in NY-Tri-state area can vouch for me).

In honor of tomorrow’s big celebration of love…let us all grab our favorite shade of crimson Essie polish, and paint the town red (or at least all of our digits).  With over two dozen scarlet hues to chose from, I have broken down a few of my faves…to help in all your phalange-finishing needs.

a spicy creme red
Fishnet Stockings

a daring ruby-red
Scarlet O’Hara

sweet candied red
Jelly Apple Red

BONUS…behind-the-scenes at our “Be My Valentine, Essie…” photo shoot:

matthew degnan big love christina carathanassischristina carathanassis

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#NYFW 2/11/2013: Hair How To Marc by Marc Jacobs RTW Fall 2013

12 Feb Fashion Week NY #NYFW Christina carathanassis christabelletheblog.com

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

The best of the best from #NYFW – 2/11/2013

Marc by Marc Jacobs RTW Fall 2013

Redken MMJ

Photos by Charles Sykes for Redken

Redken Creative Consultant Guido created a big, beautiful heads of curls tonight for the Fall 2013 Marc by Marc Jacobs show that was held for the first time at Lincoln Center this season. The fun, playful look held its own next to the bold prints and bright gem tones in the collection.

“The inspiration for this look was a 1940′s-era woman, an uptown girl, but then we made it more fun, and thus more Marc by Marc. We didn’t want it to feel symmetrical or too perfect, the backbrushing gives a teased effect, a little crazy.”

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Get the Hair Look by Guido for Redken

Create the Look:

1. Apply guts 10 root targeted volumizing spray foam from roots to ends to create volume and a base for styling and blow-dry hair.

2. When dry, make a deep side part and then pin curl hair in small sections, alternating with a 1-inch curling iron and 1 1/4 inch iron, pinning each curl to the the head with setting pins.

3. When finished curling the whole head, leave to set and when then when hair has cooled unpin each curl.

4. When finished unpinning each curl, run fingers lightly through curls and then gently brush out with a boar bristle brush for more volume.

5. Backbrush the top front section and then sweep the section across the forehead and secure in place with a bobby pin.

6. Finish by spraying the entire style with fashion work 12 versatile working spray to smooth the surface and hold the style.

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#NYFW 2/10/2013: Hair How To Victoria Beckham RTW Fall 2013

10 Feb Fashion Week NY #NYFW Christina carathanassis christabelletheblog.com

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

The best of the best from #NYFW – 2/10/2013

Victoria Beckham RTW Fall 2013

Photos by Charles Sykes for Redken

Photos by Charles Sykes for Redken

Redken Creative Consultant Guido created a sexy, glossy low ponytail for the Fall 2013 Victoria Beckham show at the New York Public Library this morning. The look complemented the designer’s very luxurious, designed collection, adding another dimension and “breathing a little fresh air” into the otherwise very tailored look as a whole.

“This style is meant to look very easy, almost accidental, but note the emphasis is on the texture- I wanted it to look really drenched in shine, not quite totally wet, but almost. I in fact put as much thought into creating a simple look like this as I do with more complicated ones; it’s all about the nuances, like the texture. This is the kind of glossy texture many designers want to see right now when they want shine, it’s not the super shiny blown-out red carpet look, it’s more subtle and casual. Not to say a more traditional shiny hair look isn’t also a good look, it’s just important for women to have options, and this shiny texture is another great idea to add to a low pony.”

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Redken Diamond Oil (5/2013)
used at Victoria Beckham
Styling: Guido Palau, Redken Creative Consultant

Get the Hair Look by Guido for Redken

Create the Look:

1. Start by blow-drying hair with your fingers, not a brush, dragging fingers through as you dry so that the end result is straight but not perfect and retains a natural texture.

2. When dry, apply Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine  from lengths to ends, adding a few drops into your palm (number of drops depending on hair length & thickness) and then emulsifying in your hands and applying all over.

3. For an extra glossy finish, next apply shine flash 02 glistening mist all over.

4. Finally, gather hair into a loose low pony with a messy, undefined side part. Pull out some pieces around the face and leave one ear exposed.

**Note, Guido used Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine on the models today to create extra gloss on the runway. There are two versions: Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine is for medium hair textures, and the other Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine Intense is for thicker textures – both launch in May 2013  (Note from CC: BOO! HISS! I want it now…)

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#NYFW Highlights 2/9/2013: Alexander Wang RTW Fall 2013

9 Feb Fashion Week NY #NYFW Christina carathanassis christabelletheblog.com

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

The best of the best from #NYFW – 2/9/2013

The snow must go on…#NYFW proves to be better than USPS – Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail will stop Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2013 from delivering the shows…

Alexander Wang RTW Fall 2013


Alexander Wang RTW Fall 2013
Photo by Giovanni Giannoni

Get the Hair Look by Guido for Redken

Redken hardwear 16
runway looks
Alexander Wang RTW Fall 2013

Create the Look:

  1. Start with dry hair blow-dried straight, then wet the crown and apply a generous amount of hardwear 16 super strong gel throughout the crown.
  2. After applying the gel, comb the crown straight back for a clean, sleek shape with no part and pull into a very low ponytail at the base of the neck.
  3. Pull a thick section of the ponytail and wrap around the elastic. (This was also where Guido attached hair extensions at the show, and he wrapped a section of the hair extensions around the elastic.)
  4. Flatiron entire ponytail in sections until stick straight.
  5. Emulsify Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine Intense in your palms and apply all over the crown of the head for extra shine.**Note, Guido used Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine Intense on all models to create a super wet, slick look for dramatic effect on the runway. Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine Intense is for thick hair, and Diamond Oil Shatterproof Shine is for medium hair textures and doesn’t launch until May 2013 (Note from CC: BOO! HISS! I want it now…)
WANG REDKEN

Alexander Wang RTW Fall 2013
Photos by Charles Sykes for Redken
Styling: Guido Palau, Redken Creative Consultant

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Rag & Bone Beauty: Redken’s Runway Report #NYFW

9 Feb Fashion Week NY #NYFW Christina carathanassis christabelletheblog.com

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

The snow must go on…#NYFW proves to be better than USPS – Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail will stop Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2013 from delivering the shows…

Rag & Bone F/W 2013

Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Redken Creative Consultant Guido kicked off Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2013 with a loose chignon for the Rag & Bone show this evening, and the show went on without a hitch despite the impending snowstorm.  He created a relaxed, nonchalant knot with an emphasis on texture and a nod to the sixties.

Guido/Redken creates soft chignons backstage at Rag & Bone FW 2013 show

Guido/Redken creates soft chignons backstage at Rag & Bone FW 2013 show

“This look is really very fitting for the Rag + Bone girl, it’s a little bit Edie-Sedgwick inspired but it’s not too exaggerated. It’s got a tomboy feeling, but it also has a certain softness to it… Creating the low side part and then sweeping the hair over the forehead ultimately gives it a feminine feel.”

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Quick Tease 15 from Redken Used to create runway hair at Rag & Bone
Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Create the Look:

  1. Apply Redken guts 10 root targeted volume spray foam  to damp hair from roots to ends.
  2. Create a deep, clean low side part.
  3. Rough blow dry with fingers to create a very natural texture.
  4. When fully dry, add Redken powder refresh 01 aerosol hair powder/dry shampoo throughout to add texture and a matte effect.
  5. Drag hair together into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck and secure with elastic.
  6. Apply Redken quick tease 15 backcombing finishing spray to the ponytail and twist into a loose knot, securing with pins and letting a the “wispy” ends come out.
  7. “Soften” the whole look by pulling the hair up a bit at the crown, not too exaggerated but to add a little height.

    Rag & Bone and Redken FW 2013 Show #NYFW

    Redken Products Used:
    -guts 10 root targeted volume spray foam 

    -powder refresh 01 aerosol hair powder/dry shampoo

    -quick tease 15 backcombing finishing spray

BTS and Runway Photos Courtesy of Charles Sykes for Redkenchristina carathanassis

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In The News: Christabelle Chosen as February “Spotlight On…”

7 Feb

Absolutely thrilled & honored to have been chosen as Celebrity Makeup Artist,
JoPing Keo’s February “Spotlight On…”.

Such a fun day shooting at the New York Public Library steps on Fifth Avenue in 22 degree weather…and being interviewed by JoPing Keo herself.

A HUGE thank you to the superior shutterbug skills of NYC Photographer, Matthew Degnan. It takes a small army to create THIS LOOK…lucky to have them all on my side. xox

Read the full feature by clicking the image below…

Behind the scenes at our photo shoot…all in a days work…

matthewDegnan.com, christina carathanassis, christabelletheblog.com
A little love for
NYC Photographer, Matthew Degnan

christina carathanassis

NYFW13: Get the Look Lisa Perry Fall ’13 with Revlon & Gucci Westman

7 Feb Fashion Week NY #NYFW Christina carathanassis christabelletheblog.com

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

FASHION WEEK FALL/WINTER 2013 #NYFW …NYC is bustling, PR gals are hustling,  Fashion Designers are tussling as NYFW rolls into town…stick with us to get the looks, the feel and the scoop on the shows this season.

Lisa Perry - Presentation - Fall 2013 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 06: Models pose at the Lisa Perry fall 2013 presentation during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on February 6, 2013 in New York City. (Photo by Ben Gabbe/Getty Images)

First up…Lisa Perry Fall 2013 Collection…The collection, called “mazes, twists & doodles” featured a delightful mix of classic plaids, and ladylike fabrics with playful, zig-zag and over-sized dot prints. “It’s a twist on a classic,” Perry said, referring to the fabric she used and the genus’ of the collection’s name.

“I just think [the mod period] was the most modern time in fashion where, if you look at the designers of the time, it looks like it could have been designed yesterday. They were so ahead of their time. It just feels so fresh,” Perry explained, of her obsession with designers like Cardin and Courrèges. “You can’t put a date on it–unless you’re doing go-go boots and the whole thing. But if you pair it with a modern shoe, it looks fresh.”

New York, NY - 2/06/2013 -REVLON Sponsors the Lisa Perry Presentation During Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2013PHOTO by: Kristina Bumphrey/Starpix

New York, NY – 2/06/2013 -REVLON Sponsors the Lisa Perry Presentation During Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2013
PHOTO by: Kristina Bumphrey/Starpix

How can you get the beauty look…? Revlon Global Artistic Director, Gucci Westman, captured designer Lisa Perry’s vision of a modern girl’s take on the popular mod look of the 60’s, to complement the bright and vibrant designs of the designer’s Fall ’13 collection.

“I wanted to create a look that complimented Lisa’s clothing, something playful with strong references to the 1960’s,” says Westman. “I focused on the eyes and went for something retro.  To make it a bit more contemporary and modern I opted for bright colored liners in blues and purples, rather than black and added shadow on top for an extra pop.  I kept the skin simple and natural and created subtle freckles on the nose with a nude pencil.”

REVLON PRODUCTS TO GET THE LOOK:
FACE:
PhotoReady Bronzer in Bronzed and Chic, $12.99

EYES:
ColorStay 16H Eyeshadow Quad in Free Spirit from The Spring/Summer ’13 Collection by Gucci Westman, $7.49 (available April 2013)
PhotoReady Primer and Shadow in Muse from The Fall ’13 Collection by Gucci Westman, $9.99 (available October 2013)
ColorStay Liquid Eye Pen in Blackest Black, $8.99

ColorStay Eyeliner in Brown, $7.99

PhotoReady Kajal Intense Eyeliner + Brightener in Blue Nile, $8.99 (available June 2013)
Fantasy Lengths Maximum Wear Glue-On Lashes in Intensifying and Wispy (depending on model), $5.49
PhotoReady 3D Volume Mascara in Blackest Black, $8.99

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Cupcake $7.49

LIPS:
ColorBurst Lip Butter in Sugar Frosting, $7.49
ColorBurst Lip Butter in Cupcake $7.49

NAIL:
ColorStay Longwear Nail Enamel in Provence, $7.99

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY: www.revlon.com

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High Watt-age Hair at the Globes…

14 Jan Christina Carathanassis

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

It doesn’t get more classy than Ms. Naomi Watts…and her ultra feminine, golden “do” last night at the 70th Annual Golden Globes, nails down that comment securely into the wall. “Best Actress” nominee NAOMI WATTS looked breathtaking  in an elegant side-swept bob, created using Matrix products. And now, you can take this look into your own home and replicate it in just a few simple steps (thanks to Hairstylist Giannandrea Marongiu).

Naomi Watts at 2013 Golden Globes
(Hair: Matrix)
Photo: Huffington Post


NAOMI WATTS “High Watt-age” HAIR:

INSPIRATION: Going into the night, both stylist Giannandrea Marongiu and Naomi Watts knew they wanted to create a a classic 1940′s look and turned to greats, such as Carole Lombard, for inspiration. Describing the look as “a bit more modern than old-Hollywood,” Giannandrea gently brushed out the curls for an updated edge.

STEP-BY-STEP:

STEP 1: Starting with wet hair, sprayed Matrix Total Results Blonde Care Flash Filler ($16, Available in February) evenly throughout the hair before blow drying in order to “enhance and bring out Naomi’s blonde color”

STEP 2: Applied Matrix Total Results Amplify Foam Volumizer ($15) throughout the roots and partially down the length to create volume and all-night hold

STEP 3: Using a medium round brush, blow dried hair in sections to create soft fullness

STEP 4: Created a deep side part

STEP 5: Curled hair using a ½ inch curling iron, gently spraying Matrix Total Results Amplify Hairspray ($15) on each section before curling to gently and softly hold the curls while also providing shine

STEP 6: Gently brushed out hair so waves were soft, feminine and modern

STEP 7: Put Matrix Design Pulse Mega Dust ($15) on a boar bristle brush and brushed through hair very gently in order to stretch the waves and give it texture

Biolage Exquisite Oil by Matrix

STEP 8: Taking a pea-size amount of Biolage ExquisiteOil Replenishing Treatment ($22), gently ran hands over hair to tame flyaways and provide a subtle, weightless shine

STEP 9: Tied rubber band halfway down the length and folded hair up and under in order to create a faux bob; pinned hair in place at the nape of the neck so pins did not show

STEP 10: Shaped the waves around the face in order to finish off the classic Hollywood look

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Oscar Winning Lashes…

10 Jan Christina Carathanassis

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

I have always said, if I could ONLY have three beauty products for life, one of them would most DEFINITELY be mascara (note to anyone who might be planning to drop me on a deserted island for a year or two).  A beauty junkie from birth and a beauty publicist since I took off my collegiate cap & gown, I have tried every mascara on the market. Time and time again, I come back to the big L – Lancôme.

Leaders in the mascara industry for as long as they have made mascara, Lancôme is a luxe brand with a prestige price tag but a grandiose end result. Ladies, the money you are burning testing all other brands and getting lash extensions month after month would have already bought you a lifetime supply of Lancôme mascara (as my accountant kindly pointed out to me…”Christina, STOP BUYING BEAUTY PRODUCTS!” – not gonna happen).

christina carathanassis

Lush Lancôme Lashes

My only complaint is that I can no longer wear my YSL Sunglasss…as obnoxious as it sounds, my lashes are so thick, long and curled – they hit the lenses! The price you pay for lashes that circulate wind in the room when you blink.

I truly do love the whole portfolio, but my top faves are: Virtuôse and Hypnôse Drama (featured over there on my peepers).

See for yourself – the photo below is real, it is me, no extensions attached. All real lash – all Lancôme mascara. LOVES!

What is your favorite Lancôme mascara? Post a comment below…I want your mascara scoop…

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Stop Teasing Me…

8 Jan Christina Carathanassis

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

Jennifer Aniston’s amazing “messy” pony

My latest hair obsession is the messy ponytail.  Elegant and sexy…sloppy yet refined – what isn’t to love about it? Perhaps trying to figure out how the hell to make it happen on YOUR head of hair.

So how did I make my version of Jennifer Aniston’s (one of my girl crushes and fellow Greek) perfectly imperfect pony? With a little help from my friends…at Redken.

Items needed:
teasing comb
hair elastic
Redken Powder Grip 03
Redken Quick Tease 15

  1. Redken Quick Tease 15 – a must-have for the messy, low ponytail

    Pour a generous amount of Redken Powder Grip 03 in your palms and run through the roots of  your hair and towards the ends (this will give texture to your whole head of hair)

  2. Brush your hair back from the front of your crown to the back (as if prepping it for a ponytail)
  3. Take a 1-inch section of hair towards the middle of the crown of your head and hold it up. Then tease it by taking your teasing comb and move it up and down rapidly, moving towards the scalp. The result will be a cushioned, puffy section of hair.
  4. Continue to do the same towards the back of your head, but instead of using  your teasing comb, use generous amounts of Redken Quick Tease 15.

    christina carathanassis

    My version of the low, messy pony tail
    Color: Redken Cover Fusion 6NN

  5. Gather hair into a  low ponytail, take your teasing comb and use to smooth the bump and sides; secure with an elastic.

  6. The messier and puffier it looks, the better.  Spray and separate ends of the pony tail with Redken Quick Tease 15 (to finish off the messy look)
  7. Voila! You have mastered the low, messy, bumped up pony tail…

How did I do?

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The Perfect Blush for 2013…

3 Jan Christina Carathanassis

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

The Perfect Blush on ANY Skin Tone – Cargo Blush in Laguna, SRP $29.00

It is almost as hard as finding the right man to marry.  Finding the right blush for your skin tone.  With so much to choose from, even I, a seasoned Beauty Publicist, can be overwhelmed.  So, I can imagine what the rest of you feel like.  So many brands, so many shades, so many textures.  Don’t you sometimes want a professional to step in and make the decision for you?!? Yes, even I agree with that. Which is why, I did the asking for you…to my favorite Manhattan based Makeup Artist – Joping Keo.

What you have to understand first, is Joping Keo is stunning. This woman could make any supermodel question their own beauty. She always looks flawless (as I recall, even nine+ months preggers).  There is no questioning Joping’s talent as an artist, but she has also been blessed with a face that I could stare at for days – she looks like the perfect little doll.  Yes, I have a girl crush…and she knows it.  So when asked “Jo…how can I look like you? Your face always looks gorge and your cheeks are always flushed perfectly.”  Her response was, “Girl, you have to get THIS blush. It looks amazing on EVERYONE. Don’t shy away from what the color looks like in the pan. Used sparingly, it looks sinfully delicious on every skin color. And with your light eyes, I would even say to dust some on your eyelids.”

So, dear readers, I pass along this piece of beauty knowledge to you…from the woman who made ME look the perfect blushing doll in all of the photos on this site.

Look no further – the  perfect blush for any skin tone and a must-have in 2013, compliments of NYC Makeup Artist Joping Keo – Cargo Blush in Laguna. Happy Blushing!

Got more questions for Makeup Artist, Joping Keo? Give her a shout by clicking HERE.

xo, christabelle

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Get the 411 on Sunscreen…

27 Jul

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

With droughts effecting more than 80% of the US, there’s no doubt that this summer will continue to be a scorcher. With the sun heating up, everyone can use a little extra help from SPF to keep skin hydrated and looking great. Jill Stack, founder of Gold-N-SPF, provides the following tips to find the best sunscreens to beat the heat. Gold-N-SPF is an herbal vegan sunscreen infused with gold water, lavender essential oil, and a number of other all-natural herbs and oils, all of which help protect and moisturize skin.

  • 50+ is pointless: There is no need to purchase a sunscreen above 50 SPF. The FDA has yet to find any proven facts that SPF’s above 50 provide any additional protection.
  • Mind the time: Putting on SPF 15 allows wearers to stay in the sun for about 150 minutes without having to worry about burning, but make sure to reapply if more time in the sun is on the books! Also, sunscreen does not start working on the skin until 30 minutes after application. Keep these in mind when planning any outdoor activity.
  • Look for ultimate protection: There are two types of sun rays, UVA and UVB. Most sunscreens only protect against one or the other. Broad-spectrum SPF’s offer protection from both harmful rays.
  • Make sure to moisturize: Exposure to UVA rays at any level can break down collagen in the skin so be sure to protect and moisturize skin with tinted moisturizer or SPF moisturizer like Gold-N-SPF.
  • Oil free is the way to be: Using sunscreens with petroleum and mineral oils can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing and doing its job. Be sure to only buy sunscreens that don’t contain any harmful oils.

Gold-N-SPF is available in SPF 15 in four different sizes and one bundle pack, so the product can be used anywhere from the backyard to a beach vacation with the whole family.  The Gold-N-SPF products can be purchased from the Jill Stack Naturals website, www.jillstacknaturals.com.

 

About Gold-N-SPF

Gold-N-SPF is an herbal vegan sunscreen infused with gold water, lavender essential oil, and a number of other all-natural herbs and oils.  The sunscreen is PABA and Petroleum free, and can be used as a bug repellent and or a daily moisturizer.  Gold-N-SPF is sold in four different sizes on the Jill Stacks Naturals website. For more information please visit www.jillstacknaturals.com.

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Chrome-Me Up…Redken

24 May

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

BEFORE Redken Chromatics Haircolor (can you say Morticia?!)

After a long winter, I felt the need to break up the “black” in my hair with some fun, randomly painted on highlights.  Obsessive-compulsive about my hair (in every respect of the word), I was apprehensive about putting any sort of harsh chemicals on my locks. Fear no more, as I got the opportunity to have Redken 5th Avenue transform me into a beach goddess…just in time for the summer season.  With the help of one VERY talented hair artist and NEW Chromatics Prismatic Permanent Color…my hair is healthy and I look like beach bunny (sans the suntan).

Redken’s breakthrough professional formula offers an incredible range of benefits, fortifying every strand and giving you incredible color

AFTER Redken Chromatics haircolor application – can you say “GORGE”?

results.  NEW Chromatics Prismatic Permanent Color leaves hair 2X more fortified[1], with zero ammonia, up to 100% gray coverage and a luxurious product experience. Chromatics prismatic permanent haircolor uses ODS² (Oil Delivery System) + Protein Extract Technology, a breakthrough new salon color technology exclusive to Redken.  Hair is enveloped in a layer of protective oil, while long-lasting color dyes and protein extracts are propelled deep into every strand. The result is hair that looks and feels stronger, with brilliant color.

“Redken’s NEW Chromatics Prismatic Permanent Color leaves my clients’ haircolor so vibrant – they love it!” says Tracey Cunningham, Celebrity Colorist and Redken Creative Consultant for Color.  “My clients love how shiny and conditioned their hair feels.  It takes them straight from the salon to the red carpet.”

“So many of my clients stick to a strict 4-6 week schedule for coloring their hair.  With NEW Chromatics, they leave the salon with incredible color and fortified hair,” says David Stanko, Color Consultant for Redken.  “Chromatics is great for providing 100% gray coverage, conditioned high-shine color and rich even results from root to tip.”

Maintain your beautiful color at home with Pureology for guaranteed longer lasting haircolor or with the Redken…my personal faves – Pureology Nano Works Shampoo and Conditioner and Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner.

For more information visit Redken.com, Like Redken on Facebook  or follow them on twitter @Redken5thAve

[1] Fortifies the cuticle for two times less breakage when using Chromatics permanent haircolor System with 20 volume Oil in Cream Developer and Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo vs. uncolored hair treated with a non-conditioning shampoo

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Open up and say AHHHHH…

17 May

By Christabelle…

Dr. Timothy Chase

Well…don’t open up and say “ahhhh” if you haven’t been to the dentist recently. Do us all a favor and keep your mouth closed and make an appointment STAT with Timothy Chase, DMD.  I’m calling him this week to make an appointment to have a veneer replaced (so I can bring my chompers back up to par).

According to Dr. Timothy Chase, a healthy smile, white teeth and healthy gums can take 10 years off your appearance. Ladies, hold off on the botox and give a little attention, first, to your smile!

Dr. Chase offers his recommendations for ways in which you can brighten your smile and enhance appearance:

Whitening:  Having a healthy and white smile is a significant confidence booster and a great indication of health and wellness.   Having white teeth can be achieved by home whitening kits – but a trip to your dentist guarantees you a faster better result.  And there is good news for those who have previously been discouraged from whitening because of having sensitive teeth that were painful to whiten.  There are currently advances in whitening formulas available at you dentist to reduce discomfort and sensitivity in whitening.

Straight teeth:  Invisalign remains a key and unobtrusive way for adults to attain straight teeth and a brilliant smile.  There is hope for those who have had such misaligned teeth that they weren’t formerly candidates for the Invisalign process.  There are now a new series of aligners that have been created to correct even severely rotated teeth.  Invisalign can be used on even more complex cases now.

Veneers:  Veneers are a great way to create a healthy and youthful smile. In the past people worried about the amount of tooth that needed to be removed to fit the veneers, but today’s better porcelain and Dr Chase’s 3-D model technology  allows for less tooth reduction and better lifelike looking porcelain that lasts longer.

“Brightening your appearance by creating a healthy smile is not as daunting a task as people think,” says Chase – but above all, he advocates for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.  “My first priority is to give full consideration to a patient’s existing teeth and gums, emphasizing the importance of good oral care,” he added.

More About Dr. Timothy Chase

Dr. Chase attended the State University of Albany where he studied biology.  Continuing his education at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, he earned a DMD degree in 1993.  He went on to complete a general practice residency at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital / Westchester County Veterans Administration Hospital in 1994.

Dr. Chase served as a clinical instructor at the New York University Dental School.  He stays abreast of the latest techniques and materials being utilized in his specialties by attending advanced education seminars at the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study and is a member of the faculty study group at the Scottsdale Center for Dentistry.  In addition, he attends local dental study groups including those conducted at a New York chapter of the Seattle Study Club.  He is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

 

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Blow Out Bar…Summer Lovin’ Your Locks

15 May

By Christabelle…

Frédéric Fekkai Fifth Avenue Salon

Get your tresses summer fabulous with the best of the best at the Frédéric Fekkai ‘Summer Style’ Blow Out Bar…

WHAT:
Frédéric Fekkai Fifth Avenue Salon introduces ‘Summer Style’ Blow Out Bar, a blow out atelier exclusively at Fekkai’s flagship salon.  This summer, customers will be able to book appointments with a dedicated team of Fekkai blow out specialists for only $50.00. Maintaining the highest quality and performance of the renowned full-service luxury salons, this new blow out bar delivers fast and uber chic hair for the woman on the go. Summer Style will be open Monday-Friday mornings all summer long catering to the hair obsessed woman. Customers will be able to choose from the below 5 signature blowout looks reminiscent of Fekkai’s salon cities around the world:

The New Yorker Straight and Sleek, Fekkai’s signature blowout
Dallas Chic Volume, volume, and more volume
Hollywood Glam A Cascade of loose waves
Palm Beach Polish Sleek & Supple
St. Barth’s Sexy Ocean beach hair


WHERE:
Frédéric, Fekkai Fifth Avenue Salon, Atrium balcony

Henri Bendel, 712 Fifth Avenue (at 56th Street),  New York, NY 10019


WHEN:
Thursday, May 24th- Friday, August 31st, 2012

Monday-Friday, 7:30am-11:30am (by appointment only)


PRICE:
$50.00

APPOINTMENTS CALL:
212.753.95000


About Frédéric Fekkai & Co.

Frédéric Fekkai & Co. is the leader in luxury hair care, offering a complete range of innovative products and exclusive, full-service salons. The Company is dedicated to creating a unique portrait of style for each individual. Fekkai products are distributed through the finest beauty retailers around the world and, of course, in the world-famous Frédéric Fekkai Salons.  For more information visit: www.fekkai.com or visit us on Facebook:  www.Facebook/Fekkai @hairbyfekkai

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Top Ten Tips to Get Ready for Beach…

14 May

By Christabelle…

Dr. Murad

Summer is right around the corner…get beach-ready right this year and let Dr. Murad show you how…From SPF to foods and exercise, World-renowned dermatologist Howard Murad M.D., Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at UCLA and founder of Murad Inc. suggests effective ways to reduce cellulite and protect skin throughout body-baring months.

Tip 1    Start Wearing SPF

No one is ever too young to protect themselves from the sun. The general consensus in the medical community is that the majority of sun damage

MuraSol Sunscreens

occurs before a person turns 18 years old. Younger skin is much more sensitive to sun exposure and free radical damage. And many signs of skin damage are cumulative as we age and will likely not be visible until you are much older. I recommend everyone wear SPF on a daily basis because most sun damage occurs during daily activities. This incidental exposure includes more than just direct sunlight on bare skin while you’re tanning. Light also reflects off surfaces, comes through building and car windows and penetrates through clothing. (** my personal recommendation is new MuraSol sunscreen line**).

Tip 2    Eat More Eggs

When weakened skin and connective tissue can no longer hold fat invisibly in place, it migrates up through the skin to become cellulite. To build healthy new cells with strong  membranes, your body needs lecithin, which is found in many foods – including eggs, soy, spinach, peanuts, apples, cauliflower, and potatoes.

Tip 3    Try Dry Skin Brushing

This simple technique is one of the most effective exfoliating treatments for skin with cellulite and stretch marks. Use a body brush or exfoliating gloves to remove old dead and dying cells, while simultaneously increasing the blood flow to the affected areas and stimulating the body’s ability to remove built-up toxins.

Tip 4    Add More Raw Fruits and Vegetables to Your Grocery List

Applying topical lotions containing SPF is only one way to protect skin from the sun; select raw fruits and vegetables, as well as dietary supplements, can also help defend skin from the sun and the resulting damage. Add food such as broccoli, tomatoes, cranberries and spinach to your grocery list and take a supplement containing Pomegranate Extract for maximum benefits.

Tip 5    Shape Up Your Self-Image

Since you’ll soon be spending more time showing off your arms and legs, take simple steps to reshape your body into a point of pride by doing some exercise you enjoy at least a few times a week. Getting in shape is more than just a matter of physical exercise, getting in shape will help you feel confident and comfortable as you show off more skin.

Tip 6    Get Your EFA’s (Essential Fatty Acids)

Add extra healthy fats to your diet, like flaxseed oil, olive oil, seeds and oil from cold-water fish (like black cod and salmon) to attract water to dehydrated cells and prevent future water loss. Healthy water-tight cells mean better overall skin health including a reduction in the skin damage cycle that leads to cellulite and sagging skin.

Tip 7    Discover Botanicals and Essential Oils

To reduce cellulite, check products for effective botanicals and essential oils such as Aloe Vera, Basil, Cat’s Claw, Cedarwood, Tiger’s Herb, Fennel, Ginger, Grapefruit, Grape Seed, Mint, Pine, Pomegranate, and Tea (black, red, white, and green).  

Tip 8    Stretch

In addition to helping your flexibility and enhancing your fitness routine, stretching, including yoga, can have the added benefit of stress relief – which means less cell damage. Optimizing your cellular health is key to look your best in the long and the short term.

Tip 9    Shop Smart

When purchasing a sunscreen, be sure to look for four key basic features: full spectrum sun protection for UVA and UVB radiation, antioxidants to neutralize aging free radicals,

anti-inflammatory agents to prevent redness and soothe skin, and hydrating ingredients to replace moisture loss due to sun exposure.

Tip 10   Adopt an Inclusive Health Lifestyle

A healthy body and complexion are a reflection of total wellness. Inclusive Health, a 3-prong approach to health through topical, internal and emotional self care, provides your body the opportunity to build youthful vitality at the cellular level. By optimizing these three environments, your body and spirit will have the best opportunity to thrive.

Get more information, tips, and top-of-the-line skin products at Murad.com

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Get Some Blonde Ambition for Summer…

12 May

By Christabelle…

Just in time for summer, Pureology, the pioneer in ZeroSulfate® shampoos, introduces a new promotion featuring the award-winning Perfect4Platinum system.  The summer sun can wreak havoc on fragile strands, especially those that are highlighted and highly lifted.  The Perfect4Platinum system repairs, strengthens and softens to help hair retain its fresh-from-the-salon vibrancy.  Beginning in June in salons nationwide, Pureology will offer the ‘Perfect4Platinum Brilliant Shine Kit’ and will make a $20,000 donation to support Global Green USA in conjunction with this promotion.

Perfect4Platinum Brilliant Shine Kit

Help fragile, highlighted and highly lifted hair retain its fresh-from-the-salon vibrancy with Perfect4Platinum ZeroSulfate® shampoo and the exclusive AntiFadeComplex®.  Key ingredients include: Strengthening Technology with protein-rich Keravis, softening plant extract of chamomile, brightening plant extract of lemon, nourishing plant extract of coriander.

-          Kit includes:

  • Perfect4Platinum Shampoo (8.5 oz) and Condition (8.5 oz) featuring Zero Waste Packaging :
    • Highly concentrated ZeroSulfate® 250mL shampoos offer 70+ shampoos per bottle
    • 100% recyclable bottles feature the latest FDA-approved, 50% post-consumer recycled High-density polyethylene (HDPE) materials for unparalleled safety and environmental sustainability.
  • Perfect4Platinum Shampoo (1.7 oz), Condition (1.7 oz) and MiracleFiller (0.5 oz) and ReconstructRepair (6 packettes)

-          Available June in Salons at $61

Give Back with Pureology!

-         Giving back is one of Pureology’s core values and this year, timed with the above promotion in which Pureology is donating $20,000 to Global Green USA, Pureology has launched its Crowdrise Fundraising page for Global Green USA for its community to get involved and support Global Green USA!  The power of the crowd is real, small donations really do add up to make a monumental impact on our environment.  Thanks to the donations and funds raised by Pureology and its community, Global Green USA continues to focus on greening our nation’s schools, educating on water conservation, and improving the quality of life for people and their communities by fostering environmental awareness about the health and future of our planet.  Visit Pureology’s Crowdrise Fundraising page for Global Green USA to make your donation today!

As a brand with a sustainable vision, Pureology continually works to reduce its environmental impacts through efficient production and manufacturing processes and by incorporating more environmentally preferred materials.  This year, Pureology announces that recent improvements to its Shampoo and Condition packaging, such as the NEW Zero Waste packaging, are helping reduce its environmental impacts.

NEW Zero Waste Shampoo and Condition Packaging

-         Highly concentrated ZeroSulfate® 250mL shampoos offer 70+ shampoos per bottle

-         100% recyclable bottles feature the latest FDA-approved, 50% post-consumer recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) materials for unparalleled safety and environmental sustainability.

-         For secondary packaging, Pureology decreased the amount of cardboard and uses Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard boxes made from 100% recycled fibers.  Pureology also added educational messages to these boxes, reminding purchasers to recycle the box and providing tips on how they can conserve water.

 

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Get Emma Stone’s MET Gala Look with Matrix…

9 May

By Christabelle…

Emma Stone - 2012 MET Gala Red Carpet

Emma Stone – 2012 MET Gala Red Carpet

Emma Stone rocked her look at the MET Gala…now you can replicate her stunning red carpet look with these easy steps from MATRIX haircare!

EMMA STONE

STYLIST: Mara Roszak

INSPIRATION: To complement her young and vivacious Lanvin gown, stylist Mara Roszak wanted Emma’s hair to emulate the same fun and effortless style. Describing the look as “doll-like,” Mara kept her look feminine yet playful with a flirtatious and modern, loose bun and side-swept bangs.

STEP-BY-STEP:

-          Starting with damp hair, applied MATRIX Total Results Amplify Wonder Boost Root Lifter evenly throughout hair for all-over volume without weighting it down

-          Blew-out hair with medium-sized bore bristle brush for a soft, natural finish

-          Applied MATRIX Design Pulse Mega Dust to the roots for extra texture, volume and hold

-          Gathered hair at the top of the head in a pony-tail. Secured with elastic, letting the front and side pieces around the hairline loosely fall out for a wispy, feminine look.

-          With a soft brush or comb, gently teased the roots of the pony tail to add more volume

-          Loosely pinned hair into an undone bun shape, crisscrossing bobby pins for extra hold

-          Gently swooped bangs across forehead, securing them to the side with Lanvin hair accessory

-          Sprayed MATRIX Total Results Amplify Hairspray all over for all-night hold

-          Finished off the look with Biolage colorcarethérapie Shine Shake Spray for a high-gloss, chic finish

 

Matrix Design Pulse Mega Dust

Matrix Design Pulse Mega Dust

PRODUCTS USED:

MATRIX Design Pulse Mega Dust ($15, Matrix.com for salon locations)
MATRIX Total Results Amplify Wonder Boost Root Lifter ($16, Matrix.com for salon locations)
BIOLAGE colorcarethérapie Shine Shake Spray ($14, Matrix.com for salon locations)
MATRIX Total Results Amplify Hairspray ($15, Matrix.com for salon locations)

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Get the 411 on SPF…

27 Apr

By Christabelle…

National Sunscreen Day is just one month away on  May 27th!  Get the 411 on sunscreens NOW…and get yourself prepared for the upcoming summer season!

Lavanila Healthy SPF Collection: Get the complete coverage you need with Lavanila’s Healthy SPF Collection. These 100% natural products are made with a new generation of mineral sunscreens for superior UVA/UVB protection. Free of harsh chemicals, synthetic sunscreens and nano-particles, all formulas are fragrance-fee and infused with a superior complex of skin-saving vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The collection includes The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 30 Body Cream, The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 Face Cream and The Healthy Lip Screen SPF 30. Price: $16 to $38 at www.lavanila.com.

UNITE U Luxury Argan Oil: Featuring a high concentration of pure Argan Oil this luxe formula reduces blow-drying time (especially great during warm summer months) while acting as a natural UV and Thermal protector. Suitable for all hair types and gentle enough to use everyday, U Luxury Argan Oil contains essential minerals that work to repair hair cuticles, adding weightless shine and offering incomparable frizz control. Price: $47.95 at www.unitehair.com.

L’Occitane Immortelle Brightening Hand Care SPF 15: The Immortelle Brightening Hand Care SPF 15 uses essential oils and a vegetable complex to stimulate collagen production to fill wrinkles and even the skin tone to diminish existing age spots. UV filters are added to protect hands from the harmful effects of sunrays. Price: $30 at www.usa.loccitane.com.

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