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Bundle up, beauties! Winter is officially here. As temperatures plummeted last week, I was forced to break out my puffy down coat, scarf, gloves, and earmuffs on my daily trek to the office. And if the cold wasn't harsh enough, static cling is on the attack!
Some days, I walk into work looking like I stuck my finger in an electric socket. That was until I knew how to combat it properly. Don't let the cold weather get you (or your hair) in tangles. Without a good seasonal hair care guideline, dry, brittle, and staticky winter hair is inevitable. Learn how to sport healthy, vibrant tresses with these tips from the Pirri Hair Group.
Don't Overwash Your Hair
Limit your hair washing regimen to every other day to retain natural oils, and be sure to condition each time. Avoid rinsing with hot water — lukewarm water is best. End your shower with a cold rinse on hair to lock in moisture.
Trim Away
A trim at your favorite hair salon can really transform your 'do. Don't let the winter cold interfere with your maintenance routine. Trim off those split ends to avoid dry and damaged hair. Have some extra time? Ask your stylist to deep condition your hair to restore brittle, winter locks.
Avoid Static & Wind Struck Hair
The right product is the answer to static cling. Smooth fly-aways and protect your hair with a detangler or leave-in conditioner. With the wind at its peak this season, a good leave-in conditioning product will help combat tangling and breakage. Put on a hat to avoid tangling from windy weather and always avoid leaving the house with wet strands.
Dry Your Tresses Properly
Drying hair properly will eliminate the need for overusing additional styling tools that ultimately damage the hair. Here's how to get a great blow dry: Gently pat hair dry with a towel after showering to remove excess water. Brush and detangle hair by gently brushing with a wide-tooth comb. When blow drying, point the nozzle down from scalp to ends of the hair. The nozzle should steadily follow your brush at a 90 degree angle, leaving you with smooth, shiny hair.
Hat Head Solutions
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I don't want to stress anyone out, but guess what time it is, beauties? Time to head to the mall (or computer) for holiday gift shopping!
As always, PARADE editors help streamline the process by inspiring readers with a ton of great holiday gifts ideas in our gift guides.
And for all of the makeup mavens and beauty aficionados on your holiday list, be sure to check out some of my favorite offerings of the season for all the beautiful people in your life.
Start 'em young with the most adorable grooming kit for kids.
Gift the fanciest of friends the most amazing color collection you've ever laid your eyes on — and laid on your eyes, lips, and cheeks.
Pamper a pal with a wash and blow dry at her local bar — nope, not what you're thinking! Or keep her tresses in check with a luxurious flat iron set.
Having trouble figuring out what presents to stuff in mom or dad's stockings? I've made your list and checked it twice.
See the Beauty Mark gift guide >>
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Trendy haircolors are on the rise this fall and winter. From brilliant brunettes to rich redheads to bright blondes, there's a stunning hue for everyone.
Tracey Cunningham, Redken Creative Consultant for Color, shares the latest in fall haircolor trends with celeb-inspired ideas.
Bright Blondes
Remember when Emma Stone went blonde and sent the media abuzz? Emma received highlights and lowlights throughout the hair and an ultra blonde base. "This look is the result of a few visits to the salon to get it just right. The most important aspect to this look is keeping your locks hydrated to reduce breakage from the lightener," Tracey adds.
Brilliant Brunettes
"The look of the upcoming season will continue to be the 'Illumination' effect," Tracey says. "It is the hottest haircolor trend in Hollywood right now and it can be seen on every red carpet! It is a fun look that welcomes the winter months going brunette around the base and gradually going lighter down to the ends of the hair. Time is always of the essence and with the 'Illumination' look. You don't have to visit your colorist as often as you would for regular highlights since color isn't applied on the roots." Emily Blunt has been spotted showing off this hot trend.
Rich Redheads
Actress Isla Fisher's
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When I found out that PARADE was planning a cover story featuring Disney's new movie The Muppets, I had some major flashbacks to the 1980s when (as a little girl) I watched The Great Muppet Caper and The Muppets Take Manhattan over and over again.
I was so infatuated with those flicks that I'm certain I could recite all the song lyrics, even two decades later. Truth be told: I was (and still am) mad for The Muppets. Kermit the Frog summed it up nicely in PARADE: "We are still innocent and fun and accepting. I think people find that refreshing, especially today." Preach it, Kermit.
Now that my love for The Muppets is out there, clearly I was thrilled to attend "The Muppets Mani Monday" screening hosted by Bliss Spa this week. Manicures, Muppets, and an advance screening of the new movie! What could possibly be more fun?
I brought along Parade.com Style Me blogger Andrea as my date, and we had such a blast. The movie was clever, creative, funny, and had a little something for theater-goers of all ages. From the blink-and-you'll-miss-him Dave Grohl cameo to the barbershop quartet belting out Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit," I was dancing in my chair and humming "Mahna Mahna" long after the credits rolled.
And here's where the manicures fit in perfectly: Nail company OPI is paying homage to The Muppets movie with a new nail color line inspired by the very lively, very colorful characters. With shade names like Warm and Fozzie, Animal-istic and Gone Gonzo, how could you not smile?
When it came time for our manicures, Andrea chose Pepe's Purple Passion, a deep eggplant shade with a sprinkling of microglitter, while I picked Wocka Wocka, a festive, shimmery red hue that's perfect for the holidays.
Andrea and I agreed that the Bliss nail technicians must have hands like surgeons — the ladies did such a great paint job in a matter of minutes, with plenty of time to sit back and enjoy the show!
Pictured left: Parade.com bloggers Andrea Wytish and Alexis Collado at Muppets Mani Monday hosted by Bliss Spa.
Muppet Movie Sweepstakes: Enter for a chance to win prizes from The Muppets. Enter now!
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I've always been one of those I-love-Twilight-and-I'm-not-afraid-to-admit-it kind of gals, so it's not really a surprise that 11/18/11 (the release date of Breaking Dawn) has been on my calendar for the past few months.
And I was even more excited to score an invite to an early screening Wednesday night, where I brought along my friend Chrissy to root for Team Edward. In a nutshell, we both really enjoyed Breaking Dawn and agreed it was by far the best of the Twilight franchise. (And a bonus: R-Patz has never looked so good!)
The entire Twilight gang is looking so grown up these days, especially on the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere earlier this week.
The best beauty look of the night definitely goes to Ashley Greene, who stunned in a gorgeous red Donna Karan frock and a perfect bold, red lip to match.
Makeup artist Vanessa Scali shared her makeup tricks for creating the look. "The statement was the fun, bold lip so I kept the rest simple. Not too much on the eye, a softy flushed cheek and a bright, bold slash of color on the lip."
To get the same fresh and vibrant look, try mark Lipclick Full Color Lipstick in Cha Cha mixed with mark Lipclick SPF 15 Color Shine Lipstick in Hot Stuff.
And speaking of hot stuff, let's take a look at the some more of the Twilight-ers at the Breaking Dawn premiere:
Nikki Reed
The newlywed's (she recently tied the knot with American Idol alum Paul McDonald) radiant skin and wavy hair tucked to the side complimented her gorgeous light green Grecian-style dress by Marchesa.
Kristen Stewart
No one may have been paying attention to Kristen Stewart's gorgeous eye makeup since her J. Mendel dress with a slit-up-to-there took center stage.But the typical low-key Kristen rocked the carpet with a sultry, smoky look, making her eyes really pop.
Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner
The vamps and wolves were simply dazzling at the premiere. Pattinson wowed in a slim grey suit, while Lautner suited up nicely in a shiny navy number. Both boys looked terrific in the film, leaving me in major anticipation for the conclusion next year.
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"Repair 3 Years of Hair Damage in Just 3 Days," the advertisement claimed. So you mean to tell me that all of the over-styling from curling irons, flat irons, hot rollers and blow dryers is - poof - gone in 72 hours? REALLY?
I do love a bold statement and a good hair challenge, so I decided to put Avon Advance Techniques 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment and its audacious claim to reverse the effects hair damage to the test at a recent event at Cutler salon in New York City.
Here's the potion's promise: The treatment seeks out damage and goes below the surface to infuse moisture and strengthen hair from within, repairing split ends. The nutrients in the treatment target all three types of damage: mechanical, chemical, or thermal styling. And after only three days of use, it will repair three years of hair damage. I was suspicious, but intrigued enough to try it!
Here's how it all went down: Avon Global Hair Stylist Anthony Barrow was on-hand at the salon to answer any and all questions about the treatment and also dished out some great hair tips.
Anthony distributed about a quarter-size of the product throughout my extra long locks, working it through from roots to ends, while explaining exactly how it would repair my split ends and overstyled hair. And P.S.: Did you know that in the course of one year, the average woman devotes ten whole days (240 hours!) to her styling routine? I don't even want to think about all of the things I could have done in those ten days while I was drying my hair!
Next, I received an expert blowout that left my naturally curly hair perfectly straight, with a little height on top and waves at the ends (just the way I like it).
So, how did it work? I left the salon with a smooth, straight, gorgeous blowout and my hair felt softer than usual after trying the Avon 3D treatment. But I decided the real test would be after using the product a few more times on my own.
I incorporated it into my hair routine for the next few consecutive wash and blow dries and my hair definitely looked shinier, appeared smoother, and had fewer split ends. Did I repair a full three years worth of damage? We'll never truly know, but for only $9.99, it's undoubtedly worth conducting your own hair experiment to find out.
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Fun Hair Tips From Avon Global Hair Stylist Anthony Barrow:
*For gals on the go: If you only have five minutes to do your hair, what can you to make it always look great? Anthony suggests: "Focus on details like the bangs and concentrate on areas that make the difference."
*What about bad weather? Can you still have cute hair even when it's pouring rain? Anthony suggests creating chignons or braids and accessorize by using barrettes and clips.
*Hottest hair trend for winter 2011: "Shorter and sharper haircuts, with emphasis on textures," Anthony explains.
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My fingers and toes haven't seen this many shades of red, gray, blue, plum (even animal prints) in a very long time!
I've been polishing away and testing all the latest nail products out there for the upcoming fall and winter season. And as always, a perfectly polished set of fingernails is one of the hottest accessories around. Nails are a great way to get creative and experiment with some of the latest trends that reflect your own personal style.
Move over mainstay red and opt for something with a little shimmer. Try a magnetic polish that creates one-of-a-kind special effects. Get a long-lasting at-home gel mani with a rock hard shiny finish in minutes, and try one of my particular new favorite fads: 3-D crocodile nails!
Check out a dozen favorite nail polish shades and trends for fall and winter 2011 >>
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Ghosts and ghouls, vampires and witches, pirates and punk rockers. Oh, my!
Halloween is right around the corner — is your costume ready yet? It may be easy to throw on some mouse ears and call yourself Mickey, but if you want to go all out and get creative, October 31 is the best day to do it.
Check out some of these spook-tacular Halloween ideas, beauty how-tos and makeup tips, all inspired by some of today's hottest celebrities and fictional characters that will leave you looking anything but scary this Halloween. Unless, of course, that's the look you're going for.
Dazzle as a Twilighter, fist pump like you're from the Jersey Shore, or rock out like a superstar!
Check out our Top 8 costume ideas >>
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of early breast cancer detection.
Throughout the month, many beauty brands are uniting to support the cause and donating to breast cancer research, treatment, and education programs around the country.
Support those who have been affected by breast cancer with some of these cause-conscious beauty products.
See our Top 12 picks >>
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September 23 marks the official first day of fall, as well as my utter disbelief that crisp, cool weather, changing leaves, and the holidays will be here before we know it. Where exactly did the year go?
On the bright side, autumn does happen to be my favorite season, and I've been waiting for weeks to trade in my sandals and French manicures for leather boots, plum polish, pumpkin spice lattes, and the rest of my favorite fall trimmings. Although the summer was terrific, many trips to the beach and too much trotting around in flip flops have left me with cracked heels, scorched hair, and in need of an overall moisture overdose.
Start off autumn on the right foot. Undo summer damage and fall into the season beautifully with some of these products and tips.
Banish flaky summer skin, stat
Did basting in summer sun and swimming in salt water leave your body with some serious flakes? Try Mama Mio's Omega Body Buff Exfoliator for an effective post-summer polish. Apply Body Buff to dry skin before the shower, rub vigorously, and rinse. Dead skin cells are instantly removed and new cells are encouraged, leaving skin shiny, fresh and soft.
Quench thirsty locks
Say goodbye to dry, sun-soaked hair and restore softness and elasticity with Bumble and Bumble Deeep Masque. This intensive moisture and protein mask is a cure-all for chemically treated, sun-damaged, and undernourished tresses. For an extreme dose of moisture, apply mask to wet hair for a few hours and rinse out.
Give a heel of approval
One of the best things about summer is cute, comfy sandals, but by September, no one wants to play footsie with dry, cracked tootsies. True Blue Spa Cracked Heel Treatment from Bath and Body Works is a miracle worker for rough heels and feet. Glycolic Acid sloughs away dry skin, while the skin-loving Shea Butter helps to hydrate and smooth feet.
Get a fresh facial canvas
We all know one big cause of wrinkles and age spots (ahem, no sunblock), but with daily use of the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System, you can help reduce the signs of aging without a trip to the dermatologist. This at-home device (for under $20 a pop!) gently exfoliates the face to reveal softer, more luminous skin and anti-aging results begin from the first use.
Hydrate skin before the cold begins
Stay one step ahead of cold weather with Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream and get 24-hour moisture with this light-texture facial treat. A perfect skin prep for the chilly fall, this daily hydrator leaves skin comfortable and well-balanced with no shine or greasy feeling.
Stop back soon for all the latest in fall makeup. From trends and tips to products and best-buys, The Beauty Mark has been road testing all the hottest new looks for the season.
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While I patiently count down the days until the season three premiere of The Good Wife (Sept. 25 can't get here fast enough!), I was so excited to see one of my favorite TV wives, Julianna Margulies, take home a statue for Best Actress in a Drama Series at the 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday. As always, Julianna glowed on the red carpet in an ethereal sort of way, with her gorgeous dark locks, porcelain skin, and full mauve lips.
Wondering how to get Julianna's Emmy look for yourself? The Beauty Mark is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to win all of the beauty products used for Julianna's red carpet Emmy appearance. Check out below to enter to win all of these L'Oreal Paris goodies:
L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Smooth Souffle
Achieve a professionally flawless finish with a naturally matte effect that lasts all day, without any dullness.
L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional The One Sweep Sculpting Blush in Poppy
This innovative duo takes the guesswork out of enhancing and defining cheeks, delivering instant cheekbone definition thanks to its fishtail-shaped brush.
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara in Carbon Black
A Beauty Mark all-time favorite, Voluminous Million Lashes provides exquisitely defined lashes, minus any clumping or flaking.
L'Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge in Opulent Organza
Get long-wear lip color without the dry, cakey look. Available in a wide range of color families — from reds, pinks and plums to mauves, corals and browns.
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Clinical Repair 10 Laser Corrector Day Treatment
This targeted treatment, inspired by in-office dermatological procedures, helps increase cell turnover while exfoliating and hydrating skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and radiant.
L'Oreal Paris Feria Midnight Collection in shade M33, Natural Soft Black
Feria reinvents black with the new Midnight Collection. Each shade shimmers with its own unique highlights and combines delicate tones and tints, even on the darkest hair.
HOW TO ENTER: Send an email by September 23, 2011 (5 pm E.S.T.) to Alexis_Collado@parade.com and tell me who your favorite character is on The Good Wife. Please be sure to include your mailing address. One lucky reader will be randomly selected to win the L'Oreal Paris makeup used to get Julianna's Emmy look.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, send an email to Alexis_Collado@parade.com. Starts 1:00 PM E.S.T., 09/20/11 and ends 5:00 PM E.S.T., 09/23/11. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.) 13 years and older, except employees of Sponsor, and affiliated partners and their immediate families and those living in the same household. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Winner will be notified by email. Void outside the 50 United States (D.C.) and where prohibited. A.R.V. of the grand prize is $85. Sponsor: Parade Publications, 711 Third Ave., NY, NY 10017
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New York Fashion Week featured some of the most creative minds in fashion and beauty. Even if you weren't in the Big Apple for the runway shows, catch a glimpse of some of the spring season's hottest trends. Makeup expert and President and CEO of FACES Beautiful, Gail Sagel, helps the everyday woman make the upcoming season's trends work for them.
RED LIPSTICK
Whether it's a strong, orange-tinted color or a deep, cranberry hue, red lipstick made a big splash at New York Fashion Week. It's clear that this classic look hasn't gone out of style. Gail notes: "It's important to choose the right shade of red for you, and there is one for everyone! Take your time testing out your favorite shades and settle on one go-to product for the most flattering results."
Quick Tips: - For cool skin tones, opt for a bluish red. Warm skin tones should stick to orange or yellow-based reds. Don't be afraid to blend since sometimes, the best color is the result of a perfect mix.
- To keep the color in place, apply lip liner around the outer rim of lips.
- Don't overdo the rest of your makeup. Bold lips call for all of the attention.
BOLD BROWS
Strong, bold brows are where it's at. "There are few things that can transform a face as much as the perfect eyebrow. With this particular look, you'll need to be careful, as it can be too dramatic for everyday wear if it's not done correctly," says Gail.
Quick Tips: - To achieve this look, go a few shades darker than your original eyebrow color. For example, if you're blonde, don't go for a black brow. Stick with the same color family.
- Instead of using an eyeliner pencil, use a shadow that is almost matches the shade of your eyebrow color. Create a line at the base of the eyebrow and blend upward, using an eyebrow brush.
- Keep other makeup minimal and make brows the star of the show.
BRIGHT EYES
Although it was all over the runways, it can look like a paint-by-number project gone awry if you don't take the right approach. But who can resist this vibrant, fun look? Gail adds: "Choose colors that work with your skin tone. Reserve this look for night, and have fun with it!"
Quick Tips: - Applying dramatic colors is just like applying any other shade, but be mindful of layering and blending. Draw attention to the eye, but don't drown out the rest of your features.
- Choose matte shadow as opposed to metallic. With an already intense look, shimmer isn't necessary.
- Use black eyeliner and mascara to contrast the brightness of the hue. Keep other makeup to a minimum.
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"Alexis, look at my eyebrows! Did they mess them up? Do they look uneven? What do you think?" my coworker exclaimed as she returned from the salon after an eyebrow shaping last week. I assured her they were perfectly symmetrical and she looked terrific -- no post-brow shaping panic necessary! But unfortunately, I've been there before and it's not fun. I recounted the tale from a few years back when after trying out a new salon, I was left with brows that were uneven, too short, botched at the ends — basically a total mess. Seinfeld fans: Remember Uncle Leo? 
OK, OK it wasn't that bad, but I think many women would agree that a set of well-shaped eyebrows can really change your overall look. Whether you pay a visit to the waxing or threading salon or take matters into your own hands with tweezers, it's essential to achieve the perfect shape. Makeup artist Susmta Patel suggests these great tips:
Determine eye set
Work with your own eyebrow shape and frame--not against it. Be sure to take into consideration bone structure and eye set when trying to achieve shapely brows. Patel recommends this trick to determine your eye set: Measure your eye from the inner to outer corner. If your measurement is 7 cm and the distance between your two eyes is also the same, this means you have normal set eyes. If it is greater, you have wide set eyes and if it is less, you have close set eyes.
Spacing
Recognizing your eye set will help determine the best fit eyebrow shape. If you have close set eyes, shaping will require more space between your eyebrows. The brows should begin a little past the inner eye to give the illusion of a normal eye set. If you have wide set eyes, then you should not over pluck in between your brows -- less space will better suit your face.
Shaping
The eyebrow arch starts from your pupil and gradually goes up and then down towards the end. The arch shape depends on your bone structure. Opt for rounded shaped eyebrows to soften features. Soft angle eyebrows, look arched and feminine, and usually go well with a petite face. Angled eyebrows have a high arch and work well to mask droopy eyelids, giving a more youthful look. Straight eyebrows work best for those with a longer shaped face, making the face appear shorter and oval.
Designing
Once you understand what shape fits your face best, you can use the following tip to complete your new shape like a pro: Apply a little foundation on the eyebrows, and draw the desired shape with any colored make-up pencil. Look at yourself from a 3 feet distance in the mirror. If the sketch best complements your face, only remove the hair outside of the guideline you have created by tweezing or threading.
See photos of the best brows in the biz >>
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"I will never be the woman with the perfect hair, who can wear white and not spill on it."
--Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City
One of my all-time favorite actresses, Sarah Jessica Parker, graces the cover of PARADE this weekend, and opens up about what her life is really like. She certainly isn't the Manolo-wearing, Cosmo-swilling, free-spirited Carrie Bradshaw that she played on Sex and the City. But for an A-list actress with multiple Emmys, her own fragrance line, and a hefty paycheck (the actress took home $30 million last year!), it's refreshing to see Parker come across so warm, friendly, and genuine.
She gushes to PARADE about her three beautiful children and actor hubby Matthew Broderick. She's one of those stars who truly does have it all -- including some of the best hair in Hollywood!
From pin straight locks to corkscrew curls to platinum bobs and brunette tresses, Parker is an ever-changing hair chameleon. One thing I loved about her Sex and the City character was her ability to truly own all of the different - and sometimes unusual - looks.
And speaking of Sex and the City, PARADE asked Parker if there was any chance for a third movie and it looks like there's something brewing!
She tells us, "There is. I know what the story is. It's a small story, but I think it should be told. The question is, what's the right time to tell it?"
One thing is for sure, whenever that time comes along, millions of women will be watching. I know I will.
In the meantime, here's a look at the many styles of SJP's hair through the years: from her short blonde bob to glamorous wavy extensions.
SEE THE PHOTOS >>
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Enjoying summer activities in the great outdoors often comes with annoying beauty dilemmas, including itchy bug bites and extra-colossal frizz.
Whether you're relaxing at the beach, partying at a BBQ, or traveling to a fun-filled destination, here's how to manage some of the most common summer beauty predicaments in a flash
. Check out the simple solutions below...
Revive Pale, Dimpled Skin
For firm skin with an added boost of color, try Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer. It helps reduce the appearance of cellulite and imparts a gorgeous, golden glow at the same time. Available for Fair to Medium, and Medium to Tan skin tones, the multi-tasking collagen- and elastin-infused formula provides a healthy radiance as it visibly tones and firms skin.
Repel Pesky Bugs
Tell bugs to buzz off with Burt's Bees Herbal Insect Repellent. This natural blend of bug-fighting oils repel even the most stubborn pests in your path. Rosemary, Lemongrass, and Citronella oils create an all-natural solution for keeping bugs away.
Soothe Parched Skin and Hair
Next time your skin is feeling parched from too much fun in the sun, treat it with Josie Maran Argan Oil. This all-natural beauty oil nourishes and protects, giving skin a youthful, dewy glow. A terrific multi-tasker, it's great for split ends on hair, too.
Unclog Pores
The combination of sunscreen, makeup, and sweat tends to leave pores extra clogged during summer months. Bliss Steep Clean Mask helps to unclog pores and clear up skin in just 15 minutes flat. The at-home facial mask also exfoliates dead skin cells for brighter looking skin, while minimizing breakouts and large pores.
Control Frizzy Hair
Don't let the humidity get the best of you--or your hair. Keep frizz under control with Living Proof No Frizz Styling Cream. Available in formulas for curly or straight hair, it provides a thin humidity barrier on hair, leaving it sleek and manageable without feeling greasy or heavy. No Frizz also repels dirt and oil so you can go longer between shampoos.
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It’s no secret that many of us get our hair, makeup, and fashion inspiration from Tinseltown beauties who hit high notes on and off the red carpet.
Whether your tresses are Kardashian-long or pixie-short, try some of these styles out on your own mane for summer and beyond. From sexy, tousled beach waves to a sleek high pony, look like an A-lister with some of these hot looks.
Check out some of the hottest celebrity
hair trends of the season.
View the slideshow >>
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Summer is in full effect and you know what that means - color, color and more color! Want to add a touch of playfulness to your makeup bag but don't want to break the bank? Pay a visit to your local drugstore to add some vivid hues to your look without spending a bunch.
Celebrity makeup artist, Brett Freedman, is a huge fan of drugstore beauty brands and uses an arsenal of budget-friendly products on country superstars, TV actresses, and other celebrity clients. Brett took a stroll down the aisles of his favorite drugstore and shared some of his favorite budget beauty brands -- most under $10 -- and others even under $5!
Maybelline's ColorSensational Lipstick in Disco Pink, $5.49
The fun, pink shade is right on trend for summer. "It's a true salmon that feels just a touch more interesting than the run-of-the-mill pink," Brett says. It's perfect for gals too hesitant to ride the coral wave that's all the rage right now. "Color aside, the formula is a great combo of gloss and pigmented lipstick, close to a glaze," he adds. Brett used this shade on actress Brittany Snow and had some terrific results!
Wet 'n Wild Eyeshadow Trio in Sweet As Candy, $2.99
This trio is a great change from typical neutrals. "I always like a pop of color in shadows, so the soft cherry shade to sweeten the look gets a rave review from me," Brett says. "My tip would be to use the champagne hue on the lid and brow bone and use the pink on the outer corner to add a bit more subtle drama." Brett used the trio on Patricia Heaton for a neutral eye look with a bit of a twist.
Physician's Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Powder in Natural, $11.95
This blush, which Brett used on The Vampire Diaries star Candace Accola, imparts a nice glow of natural summer radiance. Swirl the brush to combine all the sweet pink shades together and sweep on apples of cheeks for a lit-from-within glow.
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in Green, $4.99
Milani's line is colorful, full of bling and priced right! Metallic shades are great in the summer since they tend to catch the light and work well paired with a tan. Brett's tip: Use colored eye pencils with neutral shadows. Apply the pencil very close to lash line and soften/blend with fingers or a cotton swab. Line the entire eye, around the tear duct and on the inner shelf. Brett used this shade on actress/singer Kat Graham to liven up her already gorgeous eyes.
Freeze It Hair Spray, $6.29
Bright, shiny hair is a must for all seasons, but especially in sun-soaked summer. Brett uses this spray on Reba McEntyre's flame-colored locks for a great hold, sans flakiness. The optical brighteners in the spray leave hair with a gorgeous shine, all for a terrific price.
Check out some more of Brett's drugstore beauty finds for body, skin and hair. View the slideshow.
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Now more than ever, it's time to get smart about avoiding skin cancer and protecting ourselves from the sun. Dr. Michael Gold of Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN says, "I have melanoma patients now in their young twenties. When I first started in practice 20 some years ago, if you were 60-years-old and I saw melanoma, I would be surprised."
Scary stuff! Dr. Gold reminds us that the best defense for preventing skin cancer is to stay out of the sun completely and to avoid tanning beds at all costs. Since most of us will find ourselves outdoors at some point, especially during the summer months, always be sure to lather up with SPF from head to toe.
With so many brands on the market and so many parts to protect, the choices can become overwhelming. Check out the best of the best:
SPF for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Neutrogena Wet Skin Sun Block Spray SPF 50
Attention beach volleyball fanatics: Neutrogena came out with the first-ever waterproof sun block, specially designed for wet skin application. Get major sun protection -- even in wet or sweaty conditions -- with its clinically effective shielding barrier on skin. Perfect for people who live active outdoor lifestyles — or those who just like to take frequent dips in the pool!
Beach "makeup" with SPF
Bare Escentuals bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen
The beauty geniuses at Bare Escentuals heard my plea for beach makeup with SPF! I've been loving this mineral powder sunscreen for the face (and body, too!) that comes in a portable, leak-proof brush. The sunscreen, which doubles as light beach "makeup," comes in light, medium and tan — a shade for everyone. Plus, its weightless, breathable formula won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Baby-Friendly Sunscreen
Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion SPF 55
Several of my favorite mamas out there trust Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion SPF 55 for their babies in the summertime. Formulated to provide long-lasting sun protection from the sun's rays, it's waterproof, non-greasy and gentle enough for a baby's delicate skin.
SPF on-the-go
Tocca SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelettes
Safe sunning is a piece of cake with these easy-to-use, individually wrapped, portable towelettes, complete with the decadent aroma of Tocca's classic blood orange Stella fragrance. Carry one with you at all times and never get caught without protection in the sun.
Lip Protection
Dr T's Supergoop! Lip Balm SPF 30
The lip balm with a silly name that means business! The balm's SPF 30 protects against broad-spectrum UV rays, spearmint leaf oil freshens breath and shea butter provides instant hydration. Slick a coat under your favorite lipstick for extra moisture and protection on the beach and off.
SPF with Anti-Aging Properties
StriVectin-SH Age Protect SPF 30
Super sheer and highly potent -- just the way I like my sunscreen! This daily oil-free treatment sunscreen not only protects, but it helps prevent free radical damage and wrinkle formation. Use it while at the beach -- or everyday -- as a moisturizer under makeup. A little goes a long way. Just a dime-sized amount under foundation is plenty to protect skin and prevent sun damage and aging.
Tinted Moisturizer with SPF
Kiehls Ultra Facial Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
One of BM's favorite tinted moisturizers with SPF that protects, hydrates and imparts a natural-looking hint of coverage. It's the perfect, light consistency to use as foundation during the summer months.
After-Sun Protection
Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender
This tropical-scented lotion for both face and body is packed with moisture and nutrients and great for achieving soft, smooth extending the life of your tan. Terrific for the dry and peeling effects of a sunburn (tisk, tisk!). Use it all year long as a moisturizer -- the coconut scent is even more intoxicating in the winter!
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Filling your beach bag with sunscreen may put you at ease for a day spent outdoors. But it's truly important to protect your entire body from your ears to your toes. Sunburn does not only affect common areas--it burns its mark where you least expect it.
Dr. Sandra Lee, a board certified dermatologist, warns us not to ignore these top six areas people tend to neglect when prepping for the sun. Click here to check out the list >>
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Did we even have a spring this year? I'm pretty sure we skipped a season and went straight from winter to summer in the blink of an eye...at least on my side of the map.
The humidity has begun its annual terror attack on my hair and my usually-matte face has been taken over by the God of Shine. Help! What's a frizzy-haired, shiny-faced girl to do?
First thing's first: Arm yourself with all the summer beauty tools you'll need to beat the heat.
Here's a roundup of The Beauty Mark's summer 2011 must-haves.
ghd Flat Iron
With humidity at a high, my flat iron has been coming in handy to keep my curly hair smooth and straight. I've tried them all, and my favorite flat iron by far comes from the ghd line. The stylers have a super sleek design and professional finish, protective styler guards, and they heat up in mere seconds. Plus, their new Limited Edition collections allow you to reinvent iconic looks from the most stylish eras: Glamour, New Wave and Boho Chic. Plus, they come with professional styling clips and a cute clutch. Tre chic!
Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray
Ever wake up in the morning and think to yourself: "If I have to wash my hair right now, I'm going to weep?" Welcome to my world. The introduction of dry shampoo into my life has changed my hair routine -- especially during the summer months when hair tends to become extra filled with dirt and oil. Gone are the days of powdery dry shampoo that leaves a white residue. Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo sprays on clear, which means it's completely undetectable in hair. It boosts volume, cleanses hair without water, and the light lemon verbena fragrance gives it a clean, freshly shampooed scent. (And remember BM when you get that extra hour of sleep!)
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
Before I discovered this little genie in a bottle, I'd leave my house with impeccable eye makeup and by midday, my eyes would inevitably turn into something out of the movie Whatever Happened To Baby Jane? Not anymore. Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer Potion is an ultra-sheer base that disappears on lids instantly. Want no creasing? All-day wear? Perfect eyes from 9-5? Poof -- your wish is granted.
Sephora Matte Blotting Film
I was recently at an outdoor party with Style Me blogger Andrea, complete with gorgeous views of Manhattan, delicious cocktails, great music...and EXTREME heat and humidity. Twenty minutes after I arrived, my shiny face had entered the building. Andrea to the rescue. She slipped me the best de-slick product I've ever tried. After about 30 seconds, all was well with the world (and my slick forehead). Sephora Matte Blotting Film is unlike any blotting paper. They're made from a unique, absorbent film - a paper-thin rubbery substance -- that erases shine without disturbing makeup. Best ten bucks you'll spend this summer to stay matte.
Mama Mio Lucky Legs
I love beauty products with cooling agents to combat the summer heat, and nothing beats a burst of minty-fresh relief after a long day on your feet. Mama Mio Lucky Legs delivers instant tingly refreshment when applied on your legs or anywhere on the body - taking you from overheated to cucumber-cool in a matter of seconds. Ingredients like menthol, chamomile, and spearmint provide a great 'lightening' feeling for tired feet and legs.
If you're looking for more products and techniques for summer beauty, celeb makeup artist Brett Freedman offers some tips and tricks for melt-proof makeup that lasts. Beat the heat and stay gorgeous all season long, beauties! View the slideshow >>
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What do you buy a dad who has everything? This year, opt for one of these terrific grooming gifts. (Moms aren't the only ones who could use a little pampering, right?)
Whether he is a classic dad or a modern man, a sport-loving adventurer or a frequent traveler, celebrate Dad with these man-friendly grooming gifts. With everything from luxury fragrances to budget-friendly travel sets, pamper the most important men in your life.
Click here to view the gift guide >>
