Friday, May 31, 2013

Will Beauty Wonders Ever Cease? Review of IT Cosmetics NEW Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Full Coverage Cream


**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

 IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Full Coverage Cream.jpeg
 IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Full Coverage Cream


Are you intrigued by BB creams and love the skin perfecting ability while it gives you the coverage you need?  If so, then get ready for something even more exciting from those beauty miracle workers at IT Cosmetics with their newest must have Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Full Coverage Cream!

Perhaps, you're confused about the difference between BB creams and CC creams.  Whereas those marvelous BB Creams give you more lighter coverage while concealing and correcting, CC creams take skin beauty to a higher level with better coverage, brightening power, and host of beneficial ingredients to treat your complexion simultaneously.

As you might guess, I couldn't wait to get my hands on IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, especially for summer and my desire to lighten up from the products I normally wear in colder weather.  To know that I could get full coverage that would also help mask any skin problems in a non-chemical physical only sunscreen with  SPF 50 and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection along with repairing my skin even from dark spots, serving as a primer, moisturizer, age-fighting serum, and brightener was everything I could ask for in a beauty product.

This CC+ Cream comes in five shades in a tube. Since I am light with yellow undertones,  I went with the Light instead of Fair since I don't consider my complexion the palest on the spectrum.  Once I removed the cap, I was surprised at finding an attached pump to dispense this cream.
  
Anyway, I am glad of my choice because it was a nice warm shade for me without being too dark.  Furthermore, it felt lightweight  and yet wonderfully hydrating on my dry skin.  In the process, this smoothed my complexion so exquisitely that my pores hardly showed for an incredible luminous look. 

However, the best part of wearing this through the day was how beautifully it held up without oxidizing or settling into fine lines or wrinkles as foundations can so often do!  

Developed alongside plastic surgeons for high-performance skin care with the benefits of color-correcting makeup, this CC+ Cream does deliver with a bounty of anti-aging peptides, niacin, algae, vitamins A, C, E, B, and Hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, antioxidants, exotic natural botanical and extracts such as vitamin C, licorice root, avocado, grapefruit, lime and lemon peel oils. 

I can't tell you how fabulous this product is, but if you want real help in beautifying your skin and looking younger if you some wrinkles to deal with especially, then I recommend IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream strongly.

The 1.08 fl. oz. size tube of IT CosmeticsYour Skin But Better CC+ Cream  retails for $38.  However, you can buy on QVC now for $34.68.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Experience Aromatherapy and Untold Bathing Bliss! Apotheke M: Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
 Apotheke M: Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler.jpeg
 Apotheke M: Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler

Recently, I indulged in a delicious bath of tempting coconut and jasmine when a new brand known as Apotheke: M appeared on my horizon and showed up at my door for this review. These exotic fragrant products in their Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler were full of lush botanical ingredients that moisturized and softened my skin in a pampering formula by way of this heavenly scent with aromatherapy benefits.

This exquisite bath treat consisted of three dreamy products of exceptional quality.  The Apotheke:  M Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler came with a rich and creamy Nourishing Body Cleanser, an Enriched Body Creme, and a Perfumed After-Bath Tonic to continue and then prolong that spa like experience through each of the 1.75 fl. oz. products. 

Even through the box, this yummy scent manages to come through the packaging and was off to a good start because it made me smile.  Soon you feel yourself relaxing, breathing in that enticing fruity-floral aroma, and suddenly forgetting all that you have left to do.  Instead, I just wanted to linger in my tub with this bath kit with that tempting jasmine for toning, chamomile for soothing, argan oil for its emollient properties, and Shea butter and avocado oil for moisturizing. 

However, once I followed up the Enriched Body Creme and Perfumed After-Bath Tonic, I felt sensational as well as beautiful trailing this blissful Coconut Jasmine scent with me.  I was impressed because you hardly expect something this fantastic to retail for $14.99, but it does--and you can buy Apotheke: M Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler  at Target! 

If you need a pleasant lift, I suggest checking out Apotheke M: Soothing Coconut Jasmine Sampler and let its magic work for you.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Do You Know the Proper Way to Test and Determine Your Skin Type?

Knowing with certainty the type of skin you have is definitely helpful when buying beauty products.  Otherwise, you might be neglecting or over using ingredients that could spoil your complexion from too heavy a formulation for oily skin, not heavy enough for dry, or left wondering what is the best, if you fall in between with combination skin.  After all, you need those products to work for you and not against.  

Though you probably have a good idea as to where your skin fits in when it comes to determining type, there is a simple test to take the guesswork out of figuring skin type.  This is with the tissue test.

The proper way to perform the test is to wash your face and then wait 15 minutes before pressing the tissue over your skin.  Hold the tissue in place for about 10 seconds.

After that allotted time goes by, you need to check the tissue and examine it.  If you see a lot of dark spots, your complexion is oily. 

On the other hand, if you see just a few dark spots, then you have combination skin.  In fact, you probably found those dark spots in your T-zone (chin, forehead, and chin area).

However, you might find your tissue has light spots in places.  This result means you have normal skin.

Those that have a clean tissue after doing this test have dry skin.

Once you have made a determination, the better your chances are for keeping your complexion as beautiful as possible.  In addition, you'll be saving money on accumulating products that you will need to buy again since they were wrong for you in the first place.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Recipe: Be Cook-Out Ready With My Special Overnight Sauerkraut Salad!


Summer weather always means picnic and barbecue time.  One of my favorite make ahead dishes are great marinated salads like this overnight sauerkraut salad that I want to share, being simplicity at its best. 

Just remember, you must not pull that salad out from the refrigerator too soon because it needs hours of time to allow those combined flavors to come into their own. Otherwise, you are cheating yourself from truly experiencing a taste sensation with how each ingredient seems to enhance the other just right as they merge their unique goodness together.

This salad is more on the order of coleslaw than sauerkraut. However, feel free to chop your vegetables according to your preference of how fine or thick.

I hope you do make this recipe because it honestly is so delicious!

My Special Overnight Sauerkraut Salad

1 cup of canned sauerkraut, drained
1/4 cup of celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup of onion,  finely chopped
1/4 cup of green pepper, chopped
1/4 cup of white vinegar
1/4 cup of sugar
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Once everything is finally measured, you mix the ingredients and let marinate overnight in a covered glass dish  in the refrigerator until serving the next day.  

This will serve four.

ENJOY!

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Recipe: Impress Your Guests and Serve My Spectacular Walnut-Chip Pie!


My Spectacular Walnut-Chip Pie is a high calorie indulgence that gets you racing to sample it.  Imagine a rich pecan pie (only you will be using walnuts) with added awesomeness of semi-sweet chocolate chips and further complimented with vanilla and bourbon or rum extracts to turn it beyond extraordinary.  

If this is sounding divine, then you are right.  This pie never lags behind when it comes to cleaning plates or begging for the recipe.  Therefore, I hope you try this recipe sometime.

Readers, please do make my fail-proof oil pie crust.  Honestly, this is the only crust I make now because it is the best ever. 

My Spectacular Walnut-Chip Pie

3/4 cup of firmly packed brown sugar, light or dark
1/4 cup of sugar
3/4 cup of light corn syrup
1 tablespoon of molasses (light or dark)
3 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup of chopped toasted walnuts
1/4 cup of melted butter or margarine (not spread)
2 teaspoons of bourbon or rum extract
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
whipped cream, optional
unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Make your pie crust and fit it into your greased 9-inch pie pan. 

Mix all the remaining ingredients into your mixing bowl until well combined.  Pour into your unbaked shell.

Bake in a 375-degree oven for about 40-50 minutes or until you see a golden crust.  Insert a thin knife to see if the filling is set.

Cool for at least two hours first before attempting to cut.  Otherwise, your pie will ooze.

Top with a dollop of whipped cream is optional, but sinfully delicious.

ENJOY!

Friday, May 24, 2013

Happiness Is Comfy Feet and Total Bliss Is California Footwear Company's Beach/Spa Sandals and VIP Summer Sale (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
California Footwear Company logo.jpeg
California Footwear Co


Like a lot of women, I have a passion for shoes.  When I find a great pair like the ones below, I am in my element.  I am especially excited about saving on shoes I need like the Del Mar White Grey Floral sandals I received from California Footwear Company, which is one of the eight models currently on sale.
California Footwear Company's Beach/Spa Sandal.jpeg
California Footwear Company Del Mar White Grey Floral sandal

I hate anything wedged between my toes when walking, which was just as important as pretty style when I made my selection.  These comfortable sandals also have lightweight ergonomic construction with reflexology bubbles designed to cushion feet as you step.  

You don't have to worry about tipping the scales at the airport when weighing your bag with a pair inside for vacation.  So if you're getting ready to travel, I really recommend checking out this sale because from now until June 5, the company is slashing prices on last year's popular beach sandals for up to 60% off.

Here's how the VIP Summer Sale works on those featured eight models.   Buy one pair of their sale Beach/Spa sandals and save 30%, two pairs 45% and three or more pairs are 60% off!  (Savings for that sale price show up in your shopping cart). 

Even if you're homebound and not planning any vacation, the tootsies will appreciate the open exposure being cradled and gently massaged in these sandals so take advantage of this sale while it lasts.  Remember June 5, 2013 is the date this sale ends!


California Footwear Company's Del Mar White Grey Floral Sandal.jpeg
California Footwear Company Del Mar sandals feature ergonomic construction.
*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Stir Your Senses With Mineral Fusion Earthstone Scented Body Wash and Lotion (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
Mineral Fusion Earthstone Scented Body Wash and Lotion.jpeg
Mineral Fusion Earthstone Scented Body Wash and Lotion


Although Mineral Fusion has been around since 2007, I must admit this brand is new to me.  However, I am thrilled to be working with this environmentally responsible beauty company.  They take an interesting approach to beauty and the health of the consumer and planet in what and how they manufacture.  Their intent is to enhance as well as leave skin and hair in better condition after using their line. 

Today, I will be sharing my feelings with you about two of their Earthstone scented Body Wash and Body Lotion products.  In addition, I will be covering more of the line in future reviews so stay alert because I was quite pleased with what I have tried of the line as of now.

Earthstone, one of the three scents of their Body Wash, is just what you need to wake up in the morning with its earthy, herbal aroma.  In fact, I  consider  this scent unisex.  Guys would appreciate this bolder fragrance because it is not too girly if you like to have one bottle in your shower. 

Pour a little onto your sponge or mitt and you'll love how quickly this product lathers up into a great foam.  Using mineral-rich clay and organic aloe, cocoa butter, sunflower seed oil, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins, this is gentle, but deep cleansing type of wash that moisturizes and nourishes for optimum skin health.

Next, I layered more Earthstone Body Lotion over myself.  This is a lightweight scented lotion that comes in four varieties and is perfect for summer.  I discovered this is a nicely absorbing formula that didn't leave any greasy residue behind.  It was a delightful way to keep my skin fragrant since it softens in scent through the day to follow you while moisturizing without being too heavy to clog pores in the heat. 

With revitalizing minerals, cocoa butter, sunflower seed oil, hyaluronic acid, myrtle extract and vitamins, my dry skin responded wonderfully to the gentle hydrating lotion without any reactions or sensitivity issues.

Those individuals that are sensitive to products like I can be at times with my allergies should know that Mineral Fusion contains no paraben, SLS,  phthalate, gluten, or artificial colors. 

Both the Body Lotion (8-fl. oz) and Body Wash (8.5 fl. oz.) retail for $9.99 at Mineral Fusion or Whole Foods or plug in your zip code on their website for other places to buy.  

Looking for healthier alternatives for beauty products?  Then, I recommend checking out Mineral Fusion and both of these, especially if need something lighter for the warm weather.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Two Simple Secrets to Help Save Your Face From Wrinkles!


Besides surgical procedures or injections, you may think only expensive creams and serums can help you defy aging.  However, there is even more that you can do starting now so that maybe you won't even need to consider any drastic measures later. 

Sleeping on your back is definitely a good way to try to sleep.  If you have a tendency to roll in bed and change positions, you are tugging and creasing facial skin in places that in time deepen and wrinkle.  The sooner you start training yourself into this different sleeping position on your back, the better off your face will be.  Your breathing will also likely improve since rolling around in your sleep at night can block your airways. 

Side position sleepers will also be prone to those wrinkles near the mouth from long term pulling cheek skin.  Allergies are also made worse when you sleep this way due to mucous as it drains.  

Those puffy pockets under your eyes are the result from this type of sleeping.  In fact, check your mirror because one of those swollen pockets is probably bigger than the other.  This should give you even more incentive to consider sleeping on your back instead of on the side and remedy three problems at once with protecting from wrinkles, helping your allergies, and keeping your eyes beautiful and less likely to puff.

The second secret is the wonder of what a satin pillowcase can do.  Touch it and notice how easy it is for your hand to glide across.  Think of replacing your cotton or cotton blend pillowcases because if you happen to screw up sleeping in a bad position, your face will be less abused since it also slips away from the fabric instead of sticking to it.

Remaining ageless is what we are all striving for.  Sometimes, the simplest approach to the problem can surprise you.  I do hope you put this advice to use because it helps keep you younger a lot longer while improving your health so that you can feel younger too! 

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Want to Learn Which Foods Are the Best Fat-Busters to Get Your Bikini Body Back?


Did you often wonder why some of us can eat practically anything and never seem to gain weight?  The reason could be explained by their leptin levels that regulate metabolism and control appetite.
  
Foods send messages to the brain like the leptin proteins for energy.  However, the wrong choices of what we eat can confuse the signal when body fat increases and are more likely to store it.

Still, you don't have to feel defeated.  All you need to do is think about adding the following foods to your diet.   Every one of these will help fight fat instead of keeping it in your problem area.

Nuts and seeds are extremely beneficial, raw or unsalted.  Almonds, sesame seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are the best forms.  Avoid those salty ones because they will make your body retain water--and that means extra poundage on the scale. 

Flaxseeds can help keep your system regulated.  Did you know that being constipated can add from 7 to up to 14 extra pounds?  You have lots and lots of intestines so don't be surprised of all that extra weight you can be packing!

Fish is another top food.  Flounder, Salmon, Sole, and Tilapia are the ones that will do your body the most good.

Eating more fruit is important in this equation and metabolism.  Apples, blueberries, cherries, oranges, and pomegranates are tops when it comes to weight loss.  

Besides a wealth of vitamins and other nutrients, fruits have fiber.  Apples for one have lots of it to help get things moving as they should and even help with inflammation.  

Fruits also aid in curbing that urge for sweets.  Therefore, when you feel your willpower weakening because you spot a bag of cookies in your cupboard that you forgot to hide or that commercial with something delicious to tempt you, reach for a piece of fruit.

In fact, you may want to give up your morning orange juice and replace it with eating an orange itself.  You will get more fiber and fewer calories.  At the same time, you will be more satisfied.  

Though I am getting slightly off track, you might want to keep your pantry free of tempting foods while trying to change your eating habits.  

Another suggestion is keeping a fruit bowl in sight so it's within your line of vision.  Of course, you need to hide more perishable berries and cherries in the refrigerator, but what you see before you are more likely what you grab and eat than if it remains buried in the refrigerator.

Berries are expensive.  Here's a tip to double their life.  Wash them in a bath of one part white vinegar to three parts of water and store in a covered container in your refrigerator will save them from spoiling a lot longer than you can imagine.
  
Last of all, vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, leeks, romaine lettuce, scallions, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and arugula should be eaten more.  If you forget this list when shopping for those veggies,  look for the darkest green or the deepest yellow to red because they are chalked full of the ideal nutrition that you need to help your body in slimming.

Just like fruits, you need to eat more servings of vegetables.  They will fill you up and work with your body's chemistry better to make weight loss  possible.
  
I advise measuring what a portion is first when placing your serving of vegetables on your plate.  Guessing often shortchanges you once you measure those vegetables.  They will fill your stomach more and is critical for tuning up your body while making it healthier.

Believe it or not, the herbs and spices you use to season your food can even help you out.  Basil, black pepper, chives, cardamom, cilantro, cinnamon (can also regulate blood sugar), cloves, garlic (a natural antibiotic that you can't get immune to either), ginger, parsley, and turmeric are awesome in this quest to eat better in the battle against fat and staying healthier.

Yogurt, especially Greek yogurt or plain, nonfat, is yet another food to take a second look at.  Try Greek yogurt instead of creamy white  dressing on your salad is delicious and full of protein.  Substitute it over mayonnaise if you make your own dressing slashes the calories.

Coffee and tea addicts like myself need to trade those beverages for more water, but also something to try is  unsweetened blueberry juice, cherry juice, green tea, or vegetable juice over caffeine or sodas at mealtime.

Gaining weight is always the easy part.  Losing that weight that came so easily is the hard part, but hopefully these super foods will help you not only with the cause but also to feel better!

Monday, May 20, 2013

Create Some Eye Excitement for Less Than You Think! NEW From NYC New York Color HD Trios (Review)--Photos + SWATCHES!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
NYC New York Color logo.jpeg
NYC New York Color Cosmetics


The way to impress for less was made available to me from NYC New York Color when I got to review their new line of HD Trio Eye Shadows.  There are twelve compacts of incredible eye-catching combinations that deserve your attention.  They are priced at a fraction of what you would expect to pay for what you can also do with these.

You can count on wonderful pigmentation in this coordinated palette of highlight, lid, and crease color.  This collection has lots of very wearable neutral trios and a few dramatic ones to satisfy your variety of moods and occasions for daytime business to nighttime glam or fun.  Some have sparkle and others are more matte in this powder formula with green tea extract and vitamins A and E.  

Another bonus is this compact still come with an applicator, which is welcome news since many companies are failing to spend a few extra pennies to provide one these days or even provide enough room to store your own tool inside! 

These shadows do come on rather sheer and work best if you use primer first to keep them intact longer.  However, the look of a softer eye comes in handy for summer.  If you want the shade deepened, I found giving it another sweep of shadow over the primer helped a bit. 

Here is a group shoot in the photo below.  Starting at the top row going from left to right is:  #791 Urban Spice (beige, forest green, and pale rust), #786 Skyrise Steel (bone, charcoal gray, and silver), and  #781 Long Beach Sands (peach, beige, and warm medium brown). 


NYC New York Color HD Trios eye shadow compacts.jpeg
NYC New York Color HD Trios

The second row underneath  from left to right consist of #782 Bronzed in Brooklyn (golden beige, deep cool brown, and gold-bronze), #790 Concrete Jungle (off-white, navy, and silver), and #789 West Vintage (grass green, violet, and pale green). 

In the third row going from left to right is: #785 Central Park Plum (peach, a brown-beige, and red plum), #784 Blues Cafe (sky blue, a cool light brown, and midnight blue), and #788 Late Night Latte (golden brown beige, lavender, and medium brown). 

The fourth row from left to right has:  #783 Oh SoHo Sweet (beige, a cool medium brown, and soft pink), #792 Streets Paved In Gold (yellow gold, medium brown, and burnished gold), and ending with #787 The Liberty Lilacs (lilac, pink, and mauve) on the right.

Today, I will concentrate on six that I swatched and will show you the others in another post.  Take a look at the next photo starting from the left are the three shades in #792 Streets Paved In Gold followed by #782 Oh SoHo Sweet and finishing with #783 The Liberty Lilacs on the right.


NYC New York Color HD Trios swatches.jpeg
The shades are so basic and perfect for every day.

#783 Oh SoHo Sweet is on the left, #792 Streets Paved in Gold (middle) and #783 The Liberty Lilacs on the right in the following photo.


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Look at these lovely HD Trio shades.

In the next shot, #791 Urban Spice is on the left with #781 Long Beach Sands in the middle and ending with #786 Skyrise Steel on the right.


NYC New York Color HD Trio Second set of swatches.jpeg
These are quite neutral shades.

#781 Long Beach Sands in on the left, #786 Skyrise Steel (middle) and #791 Urban Spice on the right in the photo below.


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Here is the last of the  HD Trios to show you.  If you're like me, then you'll be tempted to want them all. 

I did think these NYC New York Color HD Trio Eye Shadows were great to experiment with.  I only wish the compact was sturdier to protect the shadow more.  These do crumble if dropped like anything else so be careful of throwing them in your bag without cradling them in a cosmetic case.  Regardless, at less than $5, you can afford to replace it easily enough!

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  Free products were provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Tone Up and Beautify Your Body for Summer With Prana SpaCeuticals Attar Firming Body Milk! (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
Prana SpaCeuticals Attar Firming Body Milk.jpeg
Prana SpaCeuticals Attar Firming Body Milk

With bathing suit season just around the corner, I think it's important to be as proud of your body as you can.  Whether you have a perfect shape or have figure flaws like many of us, you could still be carrying around some lumpy cellulite.  Unless you firm up those problem spots, if you intend to show a lot of skin with a new skimpy bikini, you could spoil the look with that unflattering, orange peel type skin.  

Fear not, ladies, I'm already on it because firming up that cellulite is a problem for me. My particular curse is thighs, making me the ideal candidate to see how well a firming product would work like the one Prana SpaCeuticals sent to me for review with their Attar Firming Body Milk.

The star ingredient in this body lotion is the glaucine.  According to some research, when it comes to helping with anti-cellulite, glaucine is better equipped to empty cells and secret cellulite instead of storing it in the skin with that lumpy grapefruit texture.  Glaucine  in stimulating lipolysis to drain those pockets of toxins and fat sounded promising along with Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract to increase circulation and more blood flow to help in the process made sense to me. In addition, this lotion has lots of antioxidants, highly refined oils such as grape seed oil, almond oil, sunflower seed oil, vitamins, and several natural anti-inflammatory ingredients for more benefits. 

I was immediately drawn to its lovely scent once I pumped this lightweight lotion out.  There was no sticky feeling left on my skin either just what I rubbed felt silkier and more supple.  It took about ten days for me to see improvement with more firmer, and less jello-looking thighs. 

You won't find all your other humps and bumps gone if you have them, but you will see a wonderful difference in pulling the area together while giving your skin more elasticity and softness.  If you're like me and need to fix the look of your problem area, then I recommend trying Prana SpaCeuticals Attar Firming Body Milk and see how well it works firsthand because I know you will appreciate what it can do. 

The 8-fl. oz. bottle retails for $28. 

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Recipe: You'll Feel Like Smiling Once You Splurge on My Luscious Lemon Cups for Dessert!


Imagine how delicious a cup of creamy lemon custard would taste right about now?  Anyone that loves lemon and pudding type of desserts will really enjoy this recipe.  This yummy delight has a cloudlike texture bursting with tangy sweet lemon flavor so it is sure to bring on a sunny attitude. 

It is relatively easy to make once you assemble all the ingredients.  The most complicated part is separating the egg yolks from the whites and then beating the whites to fold in.

Using milk is fine, but if you want the texture even creamier, then substitute evaporated milk.  The richness is increased and the finished custard is as smooth as velvet against your tongue. 

You will bake this in the oven in four custard cups that need to be surrounded by hot water once in your baking pan.   

Feel free to top with whipped cream or frozen whipped topping later or just serve plain. Either choice is delicious!

My Luscious Lemon Cups

2 tablespoons of melted margarine or butter (not spread)
3/4 cup of sugar
1/4 teaspoon of salt
2 eggs, separated
3 tablespoons of flour
3 tablespoons of lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon of finely grated lemon rind or 1 teaspoon of lemon extract
1 cup of milk or evaporated milk (to make it creamier)


To Prepare:

Leave your eggs at room temperature while you assemble your ingredients.  They will separate better. 

Set the yolks aside. 

You will beat the egg whites with the salt until stiff peaks form.

After melting the margarine, mix it along with the sugar, yolks, flour, lemon juice, rind or extract, and milk into a mixing bowl.

Fold in the egg whites.

Grease and fill four custard cups and place in a 9-inch square baking pan.   Put this pan in the oven before pouring some hot water around them.

Bake these custards at 350-degrees for about 45 minutes or until a slim knife inserted comes out clean.

Chill thoroughly.  

Top with fluffy whipped cream or enjoy as is!

Friday, May 17, 2013

IT Cosmetics Can Help YOU Hide Imperfections Like a Charm--Review of Bye Bye Under Eye + Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer.jpeg
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer


As one with year round allergies, I can tell you that it takes a serious concealing product to hide dark allergic shiners.  Sometimes,  the same products I use to cover my black circles just don't cut it when they act up even when taking antihistamines.  Therefore, I have accumulated quite a collection because concealing is important to me.  Otherwise, I could be mistaken as a human raccoon with the size of those rings around my ends.

Luckily, I found IT Cosmetics, a brand of innovative cosmetics developed along with plastic surgeons to treat skin with an anti-aging formula and beneficial ingredients while delivering beautiful color.   The products that I have tried from them already have been winners so I was eager to see how well their Bye Bye Under Eye and Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush would work on an awful allergy day to keep me from scaring people.

The company was very generous to send me two shades of the Bye Bye Under Eye in Light and Neutral Medium.  I am not fair but consider my skin more light with warm undertones.  On me, the Light shade was a better match.  The Neutral Medium is little dark for that eye area, but I can use it on the rest of my face or probably once I get into the sun.

This thick cream is waterproof and a moisturizing formula with vitamins K, A, C, E and hydrolyzed collagen to even help reduce eye puffiness because it was developed as a way to conceal facial bruising after plastic surgery. 

Unlike what you normally would use when applying concealer, you only want to squeeze out an extremely tiny amount.  Although you can use your finger, I really liked using that Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush with this product.  

First, I applied my eye cream and then I focused that loaded brush toward the inner corners of my eyes.  I spaced a few dots from the inner and outer corners and across the lower eye socket line before using my finger.  Instead of rubbing, I tapped the concealer in.  You might be surprised at well this method worked to distribute the concealer without thinning it out in places from your fingers.  Trust me on this, you will have more success with concealer if used this way.


IT Cosmetics Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush.jpeg
IT Cosmetics Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush

I liked the amount of coverage obtained while it brightened the under eye as well though it did have a slight shine.  Though once you finish with foundation and the rest of your makeup, it is perfectly fine. 

I can't say if it was the concealer that helped my saucer eyes that day shrink or my new antihistamine, but my eye swelling also went down later that morning.  This was not drying or did it cake up for me and seemed to last a long time without ending up into my fine creases, which also impressed me. 

If you  have imperfections like yours truly and are looking for a great concealer and brush, I do recommend IT Cosmetics and their Bye Bye Under Eye (retails for $24) and Dual Airbrush Foundation/Concealer Brush (retails for $48)!  These products are also available at QVC, QVC.com, Beauty.com, Beauty 360, and the shopping channel.com in Canada.

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Eleven Makeup Tricks to Keep You Looking Younger

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This woman takes her beauty seriously.


Keeping your real age hidden from the world is more likely if you make a few simple changes to your makeup bag and routine.  After all, we as women are entitled to our secrets!  

The following little tweaks to what you are doing or using can help you maintain a younger appearance.

1.  Try a moisturizing foundation that has light-reflecting pigments instead of ones that are heavy, dry and matte.  This choice can help add radiance and distract the eye with light more so from wrinkles than a thicker, non-reflective formula that can exaggerate them.
 
2.   You may want to experiment with gray-violet or taupe-mauve eyeshadow.  These universal shades seem to work wonders on everyone to enhance their lids and make the most of their eyes.  However, if you are at the stage with droopy lids, you need to take a different route with brightening the area to give the illusion of lifting the lid.   Pick a shade like golden vanilla or peachy beige shadow that either is  matte or has a soft gleam to it.

3.  As far as eyeliners, I suggest switching to  long-wearing gel eyeliner.   This type won't tug on delicate skin and stays put more.  Pencils, on the other hand, especially the creamier the formula, can smudge over time and end in fine lines.  Look into a slightly softer color than pitch black such as deep grays, browns or even taupes, which is a subtler way to define aging eyes.

4.  When lining your inner rims, you may want to look for bone-color eyeliner instead of a bolder white.  This color is just as effective as calling attention away from redness in a more natural way so you look well rested.

5.   Lashes thin as we age.  Therefore, you might want to consider trying lengthening formulas of mascara over volumizing ones.  Also, you probably should opt for waterproof formulas since they won't smudge to settle in fine lines and creases like the non-waterproof varieties. 

6.  Discover what an eyelash curler can do to open up your eyes.  You need to make friends with this tool since it can prevent over clumping on thinning older lashes for an ugly, spikey look. 

7.   Cream blush is another product you might think of switching to since it leaves skin with a dewy sheen.  A powder blush can look flat on older complexions and settle into any fine lines.

8.   In regard to concealers, you should start learning to use a brush with a thick, creamy formula.  If you begin at the inner corner of the eye, you place a small amount of the concealer and dot across the eye hollow before blending.  You will find this method works better on a more serious dark circle problem in those thinner hollows of your eyes than a thinner liquid concealer.

9.  Lighten up your lip color choices.   Equally important, you need to avoid overly dark and matte lipsticks.   Looking into softer well pigmented glosses can give you color and definition in a more flattering way.

10.  Make sure to use a clear or neutral color of lip liner to keep your lip gloss or lipstick from bleeding. 

11.  Last of all, you would best be served investing in a highlighter with a soft gleam.  A little highlighting powder on the cheekbones, temples, under the brows, or on the inner corners of the eyes, helps a face glow. 

Though you can't buy the next thing I want to suggest, I do recommend it as a stunning finish to complete your transformation.  Be sure to smile more because nothing is more attractive or approachable than a beautiful woman with a smile!

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Simplify Summer Beauty: Hydroxatone Anti-Aging BB Cream With Broad Spectrum SPF 40 (Medium) Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**



If you ask me, I think one of the most amazing products you can put on your face is a BB Cream.  Such a multi-tasking product can hydrate, conceal, protect, and serve as makeup to saves you time, but also is a great choice to add to your summer beauty ritual.

Thanks to iFabbo, I had the opportunity to try Hydroxatone Anti-Aging BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40 in Medium.  

The first thing you will notice is how this citrus scented product will even out your skin tone and do wonders to improve the texture of your complexion.  It does come out a bit thick so you only need a little to do your face.  The feel of this cream is lightweight against your skin with reliable light to nearly medium coverage, depending on how much you apply.

This cream needs a few minutes to adjust once on your skin before you notice how it adapts to match your coloring.  Being light but not fair, I had concerns about what the medium shade would look like; however, this suited my coloring without any problems.  In fact, I think light would have been too pale for me.  Therefore, I suggest you may want one shade darker than normal in this line.

With their peptides, vitamin C, plant stem cells, and SPF 40 broad spectrum sun protection, this BB Cream really did benefit my skin from anti-aging because it didn't seem to settle into any creases, insured the face protection from sun damage being a sunblock, and gave me a better-looking complexion the more I used it. 

As far as staying power, I thought this cream held up nicely without turning greasy either.  The gorgeous soft matte finish won't disappoint you.

Unlike a tinted moisturizer, I also want to point out that  this BB Cream is wonderfully pigmented.  Some people may feel they need more coverage if they have lots of skin issues and apply their foundation on top, but I thought the coverage smoothed and perfected my complexion just fine alone.  I intend on replacing my normal foundation with this one for summer. 

The 1.5 oz. Hydroxatone Anti-Aging BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40 retails for $39 at ULTA.  If you haven't tried a BB Cream yet, you definitely need to look into one.  I honestly believe you'll love what this can do for you!

Monday, May 13, 2013

L'Occitane's Newest Achievement: Jasmin & Bergamote Eau de Toilette Spray From Recently Launched La Collection de Grasse (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
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L'Occitane's Jasmin & Bergamote Eau de Toilette Spray


When I learned what L'Occitane en Provence envisioned with the Grasse Collection, I eagerly anticipated what those new divine creations would smell like once founder, Olivier Baussan and perfumer, Karine Dubreuil brought historic essences that distinguished Grasse for perfumery and paired them for this recently launched line of April 2013. 

Simply put, this collection is a celebration of the ceaseless beauty from nature, landscapes, and the exciting atmosphere of Southern France brought to you in the purest form.  

Take Jasmin & Bergamote, the first of the four fragrances that I will be sharing with you in future reviews, that is truly magnificent for complimenting two notes in such a balanced way that the white floral against the fresher bergamot, gracefully float like a soft breeze against a blooming field.  

This romantic fragrance is so delicate and yet refined with how the almost transparent notes of rare petals and green leaves mesh against the uplifting, but an equally sheer layer of bergamot in perfect harmony between freshness and sensuality.  

Wearing this fruity-floral fragrance can be compared to living a beautiful dream that leaves you wondering if that bliss you are experiencing is real or a product of your subconscious because of how the scent lingers to haunt you with its innocent simplicity.

The longevity of this eau de toilette will surprise you as well.  I was thrilled at how many hours this fragrance lasted without fading.
 
If you are drawn to floral fragrances with jasmine, I urge you to try Jasmin & Bergamote products from this collection.  However, I do need to point out if you are expecting the scent to be overly sweet and overflowing with jasmine, you will not find it.  Instead, this scent sways like the perfect partner matching your every move to a slow romantic dance with how exquisitely the notes unfold and glide.

The 2.5 oz. Jasmin & Bergamote Eau de Toilette retails for $75.  Also, available is a matching  6-oz. body milk and shower gel for $20 each, and a perfumed soap for $8.

I honestly fell in love with this scent and can't wait to test the other remaining scents in this Grasse collection because they are something truly to behold and bask in.  

Do visit L'Occitane and pick this fragrance up.  Trust me on this, you too will helplessly slip into the same lovely dream with certainty because this is the magical component that is a part of this fragrance.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Secret of Weight Loss and Better Health Revealed--The Fast Metabolism Diet by Haylie Pomroy Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
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The Fast Metabolism Diet by Haylie Pomroy 

The premise behind The Fast Metabolism Diet- Eat  More & Lose More Weight by celebrity nutritionist and author, Haylie Pomroy,  to reset and speed up the body metabolism and how it was developed grabbed my attention.  

This increased weight loss plan was a direct result of her work with clients with health related problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, etc. and how changing their diet improved  conditions, while without effort, enabled them to drop pounds. 

What she is saying seems to make sense about how most people eat and why our bodies and health can be aided through food.

The idea is to reset your metabolism through three different stages of eating for 28 days.
  
Phase 1--This is the unwind stress period that will jump-start your system to better absorbing nutrients through this stage of high glycemic foods, low fats, and moderate amounts of protein.  

Phase 2--This is the unlock fat stores stage limited to high protein foods and vegetable choices while restricting carbs and fats.

Phase 3--This is the hormones, heart, and heat stage of high healthy fat, moderate carb and protein intakes, and a low-glycemic fruit.

Regardless of the phase, you also need to drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day.

Refined sugars, wheat, dairy, soy, corn, and caffeine are not permitted.  However, the idea that coffee is a no-no on this plan scared me because I am addicted to my java.

Though Pomroy prefers giving caffeine up for this 28-day period, she also understands withdrawal and recommends coffee can be had if the required food is eaten first. 

Another thing to aid cutting caffeine is her trick to beat withdrawal through certain herbs and spices.  She gives other examples how to customize the plan to accommodate potential stumbling blocks as well.

Besides a chart of allowed foods, there is a recipe section in the back.  

This plan is not intended as how you need to eat for the rest of your life.  It is more of a method to get your body back on track with faster metabolism and functioning healthier overall.  

Nonetheless, it has been a fascinating read that I intend on experimenting with next.  Now that I have finished reading, I will be revising my grocery list accordingly!

*Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks/Fast Metabolism Diet.  The views expressed here are strictly my own.*

Friday, May 10, 2013

Review: Recapture Your Skin's Radiance With My Latest Find! Jurlique's Purely Age-Defying Refining Treatment

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
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Jurlique's Purely Age-Defying Refining Treatment

I am a firm believer in the power of skin refining products to renew the beauty of your complexion.  After all, you can't expect more luminous and younger looking skin if you allow old cells to dull the surface.  With the help of products like exfoliating scrubs, masks, and peels, you pave the way to healthier skin by generating new cells with better texture, clarity, and smoothness.  

When a new box of Jurlique natural skin care arrived, I was thrilled to see one product was a refining scrub. Their Purely Age-Defying Refining Treatment is unlike some others I have used in the past.  Instead of being a heavily grainy consistency with coarse polishing beads that can sometimes tear up your skin in spots if you work it too much, this product is gentler with more finely milled beads in a creamier base.   

Furthermore, it has a pleasant, but light herbal smell from apricot seed powder, willow bark extract, natural bisabolol and calendula that come sealed to best preserve the integrity of those ingredients.

According to the directions, you only need to use a pearl-size amount on your washed and still damp face.   Honestly, I didn't think such a tiny bit could work, but it was enough to give me an overall glow without any tightness or discomfort.  

What I really liked in addition to the kinder buffing  about Jurlique's version was how much moisture this product also brought to my skin in the process.  This made my face so soft and hydrated while it even toned and made my pores look smaller as well.

I really the results I got with this product and will continue using it once a week. Those that have sensitive skin and had trouble with exfoliating scrubs can rest assured that this one is a safe bet.   

Despite how gentle a formula is, I advise no more than twice a week using exfoliation products because skin needs time to rebuild.

Jurlique's Purely Age-Defying Refining Treatment retails for $35 for the 1.4 oz. tube.  Take it from me, you are going to love the way this product will treat and leave your skin!

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Review: Bye Bye Pores Anti-Aging Airbrush Silk HD Illuminizer From IT Cosmetics--A Must Have!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
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Bye Bye Pores Anti-Aging Airbrush Silk HD Illuminizer

Like all their anti-aging line designed with plastic surgeons, IT Cosmetics taps into the latest technology and beneficial ingredients to help your face turn back the clock.  Their Bye Bye Pores Anti-Aging Airbrush Silk HD Illuminizer that I had the chance to test was amazing for giving my complexion a genuine radiant glow that looked natural and much younger.

I am not a scientist, but the reason this gorgeous transformation was possible can be explained because of the illuminizer's spherical technology that uses silica, a rounded particle that seems to float so imperfections are less visible.  Along with real silk, plenty of vitamin power from A, C, E, K, and hydrolyzed collagen, this talc-free formula perfected my skin and made it flawless with a fine silk luminosity that didn't look powdery or shimmery in the least. 

Furthermore, this beauty didn't leave me wanting when it came to dealing with a shine or settle into fine creases.  My face looked good throughout most of my day without needing to touch anything up. 

No joke, I am hooked on this company because their cosmetics do more than simply color.  From the products I tried and reviewed, their formulations give your aging face an edge for what this stuff can do to hide how many birthdays you had.

This illuminizer retails for $24.00 at IT Cosmetics, QVC and QVC.com, and The Shopping Channel in Canada.

I can tell you what I think, but it is up to you to try this Bye Bye Pores Anti-Aging Airbrush Silk HD Illuminizer for yourself because  then you will be able to compare this to what you have been using.  What do you have to lose?  You only have something to gain--and that is a more dazzling complexion!