Mother's Day Gifts of Beauty

One of the things I love about gifting with beauty is it truly is a gift that keeps on giving.  And each time the recipient uses that item, it reminds them of the one who gave it.  I find that's especially true when the giver takes the likes and desires of the recipient in mind.  What I mean by that, for instance, is if your mom has been complaining about itchy, dry, rough skin on her upper arms and you know she also enjoys citrus, a verbena scented body scrub would make such a special gift. Right? Of course, right.

With that in mind, here are a few products I can recommend to you for gifting, each with its own special properties.

POMEGA5 ROSE SYSTEM
Have a mom who loves flowers, perhaps even the traditional and lovely fragrance of roses?  I promise you, you cannot go wrong with Pomega5's Rose System.  Readers already know Pomega5 is one of my absolute most favorite skincare brand out there.  Based on using the highly coveted pomegranate seed oil, this is a family run company that takes time to create high quality, gorgeous, effective products, often receiving inspiration for their products from their extensive home garden.  There's not been a single item I've been even the slightest bit disappointed in. Everything I've tried I've loved, cherished and delighted in. Each product contains its very own special properties and each smells so delicious you can't wait to use them. I truly believe in this brand!

While 60% of us buy flowers for our moms every year, this year we can give her roses through the sure-to-make-her-feel-good Rose System that’s actually good for her. Pomega5’s Rose System makes you feel calm and refreshed, and the pure, organic ingredients will help regenerate skin to its youthful and bright complexion. Available exclusively direct from Pomega5.  $135 for the set.

Includes:

Bulgarian Rose Moisturizing Beauty Bar (120 g)

Daily Revitalizing Concentrate (30 ampoules)

Bois de Rose Velvet Hydrating Cream (50 ml)

AMALA HYDRATE SPA VALISE
Amala Hydrate Spa Valise Set replenishes and sustains skin'­s moisture level with organic Egyptian Jasmine, renowned for its nourishing, smoothing and antioxidant benefits for skin. Amala's certified organic Jasmine is cultivated and custom distilled in Egypt by their own fair trade farm partner.  Your skin feels so refreshed, soothed and pampered. This is the gift of responsible, results-driven skincare. Rich in organic whole plants, the conveniently packaged, proven-effective treatments beautify the skin and benefit the earth.  Eco-luxe organic hemp and woven paper valise.  Available at Spirit Beauty Lounge.   $102 for the set.

Includes:

Hydrating cream cleanser 1.7 oz.

Hydrating toner 1.7 oz.

Hydrating face cream 1 oz.

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY D.I.Y. FACIAL RITUAL GIFT SET
Offering innovative prescriptive skincare, Elemental Herbology products address the changes that occur in the skin as a result of seasonal, lifestyle and hormonal change. Formulated to help restore equilibrium, the brand is committed to helping their customers achieve healthy and radiant skin. They are performance focused, yielding that ‘feel good factor’, their products combine clinically-tested bio-actives with over one hundred unique plant, mineral and marine extracts and pure delicately scented flower oils.

This is the perfect introduction kit to give you a wonderful discovery of this fabulous skincare brand. Love, love, love Elemental Herbology.  I can't believe this kit is only $55.  Available at Beauty Bar.

Includes:

Facial Glow Radiance Peel - Vitamin C/Papaya/Manuka Honey

This radiance peel is infused with a tropical cocktail of vitamins, enzymes and skin-brightening botanicals, to help exfoliate dead surface cells, stimulate cell metabolism and harmonise the skin tone to create a radiant and glowing complexion.

Facial Detox Puifying Mask - Malachite/Kaolin/Manuka Honey

Mineral rich organic Amazonian Clay helps eliminate toxins from the surface of the skin while gently exfoliating and softening. Although it has astringent properties it is not as dehydrating as conventional clays, leaving the skin soft, humidified and glowing.

Biodynamic Facial Souffle' - Rose Damask/Marine Collagen/Calendula

Rich in amino acids, collagen and reparative botanicals, this luxurious treatment mask helps soothe, plump, hydrate and repair parched skin to reveal a dewy, fresh and vibrant complexion.

CLARISONIC MIA
If your mom doesn't own a Clarisonic yet, this is the p-e-r-f-e-c-t occasion to treat her to one. From the Clarisonic family of sonic skin-cleansing products, the one-button, one-speed, one-minute Mia is perfect for those wanting a convenient, less costly (from the traditional Clarisonic system), yet effective way to cleanse while traveling--or anytime. This award-winning waterproof, rechargeable, professional-caliber brush uses gentle sonic micro-massage action to cleanse deeply. It works so well, it helps other skin-care products absorb better. It cleans pores--loosening dirt, makeup, and oil as it reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It's proven to remove six times more makeup than traditional superficial cleansing, allowing serums and moisturizers to absorb better. Skin is left soft, pampered, radiant, and younger-looking--without harsh abrasion or chemicals. It's so gentle, you can use it twice a day.

Clarisonic Mia Systems retail between $124 - $150 and are available worldwide.  I recommend purchasing from b-glowing (looove them! great customer service and they include fabulous samples) and QVC (sometimes available with easy pay options).

JABONERIA MARIANELLA SOAPS
Handmade soaps, each with its own distinctive artistic flair and a childhood memory attached.  That's what Venezuelan-born Marianella Febres-Cordero has created with her gorgeous and luxurious line of soaps.  This is one of my very favorite places to shop when I have a gift to buy!  Each bar smells luscious and creates such a beautiful focal point, wherever you place it.  You just can't help but be transported to another place and time through the stories Marianella tells for each soap inspiration. Each bar is infused with its own special essential and fragrance oils. It's a sensual experience through and through. Truly lovely!

Current bars include:

Aranciata (my favorite) - Orange, Teakwood and Rosemary

Aura Elena (close 2nd) - Oak Moss, Coconut and Mulberry

Coqueta - Baby Powder, Vanilla and Grapefruit

Dama de la Noche - Lemon, Apple and the exotic Dama de la Noche flower

Desert Gardenia - Gardenia, Honey and Oak Moss

Lemonwood - Bois de Rose, Litsea Cubeba and Bergamot

Parchita - Passion Fruit, Polyantha Rose and Litsea Cubeba

Poncha Crema - Vanilla, Fig and Cinnamon

Sugar Cane Tea - Sugar Cane, Plum and Litsea Cubeba

Violet Fields - Violet, Bergamot and a hint of Menthol

Jaboneria Marianella bars (there's a men's line too) are available directly through them. $14

THIS WORKS "CRACKERS"
I love these ... and so unique. Love Lip Cracker contains a nourishing preservative-free balm that's been designed to melt at body temperature so it is easily absorbed into skin. With a rich formula packed with the earth's most moisturizing ingredients and an exotic blend of Monoi Oil, Rose Oil and Cocoa Butter, the balm hydrates lips, soothes and protects skin. Peace Eye Cracker contains a lovely little eye serum/cream that has garnered rave reviews for dark circle reduction and improvement in lines and undereye bags. The soothing blend of serum brightens and refreshes eyes using a fusion of regenerating and moisturizing glycerin, arnica, aloe vera and cucumber. Both are available at Beautyhabit. $14 each.

TALLULAH JANE NATURAL PERFUMES
Blended with botanical essences, resins and balsams, Tallulah Jane scents are an ever-evolving olfactory experience. No two vintages are exactly alike so your Tallulah Jane scent is always unique; designed my nature - especially for you. Tallulah, their signature scent, is the most fabulous jasmine scent I've ever tried. Creamy jasmine notes and heady tuberose combine for a scent that is timeless yet so ultra cool! And be on the look out soon for a feature on their newest creation, Hope. I can't wait to tell you more about it and the company's generous collaboration with the American Cancer Society for their Pink & Black Tie Gala. Tallulah Jane perfumes are available at Spirit Beauty Lounge. $48 - $58

LOVE + TOAST and TOKYO MILK CURIOSITIES
Such whimsical packaging, gorgeous formulas and sweet, decadent aromas are yours with a little purchase of Love + Toast or Tokyo Milk products. They feature an assortment of perfumes, soaps, lip balms and hand creams that are unlike any you've tried before. Experience scent combinations like mandarin tea, honey coconut, lemon mint, citrus gin blossom, or tantalize with a sophisticated blend of fresh greens, cassis, white iris and bronzed musk crushed and distilled to perfection. Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk and Tokyo Milk Dark are by beauty entrepreneur Margot Elena Wells, who also brought us Lollia. Her natural beauty line will be released soon, nectar + pollen - can't wait! Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk products are available at b-glowing and Beautyhabit. $6 - $28


Candles & Home Fragrance
Continue the heavenly scents experience for mom with a beautifully packaged candle or unique home fragrance idea.  Nothing warms the mood of a room or the essence of a soul quite like the candlelight.

AEDES DE VENUSTAS GLOW BOX
Presented in their signature black Aedes gift box the Glow Box contains their popular Lime Coconut Sea Salt Exfoliator, Claus Porto's Tuberose soap and a L'Artisan Parfumeur votive candle.  Available at Aedes. $80

L'ARTISAN PARFUMEUR PARIS VOTIVES COFFRETS
The exclusive and limited edition gift coffret contains three L'Artisan Parfumeur votives.  Les Best is composed of Orangers en Fleurs, Intérieur Figuier and Mûre Sauvage; Les Orientales is composed of Ambre, Thé et Pain d’Epices and Ile Bourbon. Available at Aedes. $60 (each set)

SLATKIN & CO.
Flower Shop is a delightful scent of fresh-cut spring flowers - sweet lilac, pink freesia and hyacinth layered with cooling greens.  This 14.5 oz, 3-wick candle has a burn life of 40 - 65 hours and is available at Bath & Body Works. Fresh Bamboo is another fabulous scent - very clean smelling. Special Sale Price: 2 candles for $30 any assortment of scents (reg. $19.95 each).

AVENUE CANDLE COLLECTION
Years of traversing the globe searching for extraordinary fragrances is the inspiration for Avenue Candle Collection; each unique candle brings the characteristics and mood of some of the most famous streets in Avenue's favorite cities into our homes.  Avenue's Regent Street highlights notes of Earl Grey Tea and Violet.  Bergamot Citrus and Black Tea leaves are married with a hint of honey and neroli for a deeply rich fragrance.  Available  at LAFCO New York. Burn time: 75 - 85 hours.  $48

SANTA MARIA NOVELLA SCENTED TABLETS
Here's a divinely unique idea.  Santa Maria Novella Scented Tablets are 100% organic and natural essential oils mixed with beeswax from the fertile Tuscan fields and bee farms of Santa Maria Novella. Too beautiful to be hidden, tablets can be placed in drawers, hung in closets (ribbon is already attached) or simply left out in the open on a tray to freshen and scent the surrounding space. Tablets are completely safe and organic and will not stain clothing or fabrics, however wax will become malleable at very high room temperatures (85+ degrees F).  Lavender and rose oils, lavender blossoms and rose buds for a fresh romantic scent. Available at LAFCO New York, and also available in the scents of Orange/Cinnamon and Potpourri. $30

Wishing you and your mothers a most fabulous Mother's Day weekend!  xo

REVIEW: Clarisonic Cleansing Systems

It's been a long time in the coming; yes, I know.  Thanks to b-glowing.com, old skincare diva here herself finally got hold of a Clarisonic Cleansing System.  b-glowing.com ran a contest not too long ago and I was the lucky and very appreciative winner! Yay ... good things do happen for those who wait - ok, well sometimes they do. LOL

Anyway, the point here is to share with you my experience with this award winning system.  And as you might expect, I'm blown away by the results the Clarisonic produces for my skin.  Having already put the cart before the horse, though, allow me to share with you just how the Clarisonic accomplishes the results it does.

Clarisonic developed the sonic technology proven to gently yet effectively loosen dirt and oil to clear pores. The Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth skin. In just 60 seconds a day, the micro-massage action cleans more than twice as effectively as manual cleansing.  This is why spas, dermatologists and celebrities rely on this technology for ageless skin!  Local dermatologists here in my area have taken to the radio in interviews raving about why this is a must-have item in a skincare regimen.  They use the Clarisonic in their treatment preparations with their clients in their offices and, even more telling, they use it on themselves as well!

The Benefits

• Removes 6x more makeup than manual cleansing (clinical trials performed)
• Leaves skin feeling and looking smoother
• Cleanses so well that products absorb better
• Gentle enough for twice daily use
• Helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes
• Helps reduce the appearance of visible pores

 
Visit sites via the internet and you'll find 5 star reviews pretty much across the board for the system.  It's just that good.  I admit I expected this system to perform miracles for my skin with all the hype out there.  I was afraid I might be disappointed; that I probably had unattainable expectations.
 
I have the Clarisonic Classic in Pink and it performed well past my expectations. So many things to say about it.  The ease of use is phenomenal.  Simply apply a little of your favorite non-abrasive cleanser (I'm using Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel and Philosophy Purity mainly) onto your face, press the power button on the Clarisonic brush, then let the system work its magic. You swirl the brush around your skin in circular motions. The brush signals you with a little beeping sound to alert you to move to different areas of your face - one side of face, other side of face, forehead, chin and neck ... it's truly idiot-proof.
 
Rinse your face with cool water and you'll be amazed at how fresh and clean your skin feels. I am.  I've had the system for a couple of months now and I cannot get over how improved the texture of my skin is, how smooth it is, my pores are smaller, the lines on my forehead are less pronounced and my skin just has a healthier appearance, a glow really.  I'm completely loving this system.  I can't imagine being without it now.  It's amazing how clean the skin feels after using it. The sonic action gently clarifies and revitalizes the skin without the harsh chemicals or abrasion found in some microdermabrasion treatments. The exfoliation and cleansing factors alone make this a must-have item. The long-term results received outweigh the cost investment many times over.
 
What's better my treatment serums and other products absorb much better now.  They don't sit on top my skin, they penetrate for more effective results there as well. It's wonderful!
 

More information for you

 

 

B-glowing has a vast assortment of Clarisonic Systems to choose from. They come in many colors, configurations and price ranges.  They also carry the Clarisonic cleansers, body products and replacement heads.  With their famous scarlet goodie bags filled with samples and trials of products and fantastic personalized customer service, this is a shopping experience one will savor for a long time.  Visit b-glowing for more information and to purchase your Clarisonic system today.


UPDATE: Throughout the whole month of August, receive 25% off any Clarisonic product at b-glowing.com with the code: AUG. Cheers, everyone! xo

Paul & Joe Beaute Now at B-Glowing!

The lusted after line of fun, sophisticated products with inspired designs that range from cleverly modern to vintage chic is now available on b-glowing.com!

My readers already know my love for b-glowing, but here's more reason to enjoy them with the introduction of PAUL & JOE Beaute. B-glowing is an online beauty destination that has grown out of a life-long passion for beauty products.They feature only distinctive independent and forward-thinking beauty brands from across the world. Founder Lisa James is known for her discriminating buying taste and her ability to bring progressive and underground beauty brands to her customers. Lisa is credited with taking many of her brands from under the radar to beauty top picks.  I might point out she was one of the very first to pick up, what has become a cult favorite, PurpleLab with its launch of Huge Lips Skinny Hips when Karen Robinovitz first introduced her brand of beauty (um, which is quickly growing into an empire of uniquely created beauty products everyone - read: high end brands - seem to be imitating!).

lippies: Paul & Joe Autumn 2010 collection; eye shadows: L-R Butter & Sugar 91, Vintage 94 and Sakura 09

PAUL & JOE’s gorgeous makeup collections promise a translucent finish and give complexions a beautiful glow. With everything needed for your eyes, lips and face in subtle colors to match any skin tone that last for hours, PAUL & JOE’s uniquely formulated products are just as creative and unique on the outside as they are beautiful on the inside. A large collection of PAUL & JOE’s packaging is inspired by what’s on the runway, for a stylish look that brings out the beauty in every girl.

"It's about having fun. I don't ask for advice, I just have things I love."
Sophie Albou, Founder PAUL & JOE
 
Who is the PAUL & JOE Woman? Women who are totally self aware and fueled by an inner confidence. Women who are brimming with so much determination to enjoy life that they may seem a little hedonistic. She is savvy, stylish, and not afraid to address her needs and desires. Women who have these qualities, and at the same time project charm, passion and compassion. Does that sound like you?  I'd like to think it sounds like me, on a very good day! lol
 
PAUL & JOE Beaute really is a line you'll want to acquaint yourselves with.  Just the sheer fun and high quality of the products make them a sought after brand of beauty.  Check out more about them at b-glowing.com now.

Pampering Karuna Facial Treatment Masks

Inspired to impart her East-meets-West beauty knowledge with compassion and care, founder Linda Wang created Karuna – "Wisdom for the Skin."

KARUNA is a major evolution in the concept of beauty rituals, an innovative item-driven product line targeting specific skin concerns. Karuna launches with the latest evolution of the face mask, a no-mess, do-it-yourself facial that pampers as it treats each individual skin care needs.

Blending unique and sought-after ingredients, Karuna products combine science and nature to solve the most common skin concerns in a fresh, modern way. Karuna's highly specialized ingredients are custom-blended with care and expertise to deliver specific results through innovative delivery systems.
 
 

These are cloth treatment masks for any skin type. Plant extracts, peptides and anti-oxidants help renew, hydrate and nourish skin.  All-natural fiber cloths retain 50% more moisture than synthetic, helping pores fully dilate and drink in the paraben-free beneficial ingredients.  Available in six unique formulas: anti-aging, anti-blemish, anti-oxidant, brightening, hydrating, exfoliating. Just reading the list of botanical ingredients and extracts in these formulas is enough to seduce one to must-try these delightful skincare treats.
 
Each box contains four masks, which is a month's supply.  They retail for $28 a box and are available at b-glowing.

REVIEW: Lady Vengeance by Juliette Has a Gun

The Juliette Has a Gun line of fragrance creates perfumes made out of rose. Fragile but thorny, the romantic flower comes in different versions. Its ambition? To lead a new rock & elegant trend in the perfumery world, by creating romantic and original creations. And while I'd agree the line does succeed in creating romantic fragrances, they fall a bit short in the original category - more on that in a bit.

Offbeat dandy of the perfume world (he's known to wear fedoras), Romano Ricci has quite a background. A great grandmother in haute couture, a grandfather perfumer, he is definitely into creation. After years of quiet training with some of the greatest, he convinced Francis Kurkdjian (the nose behind Indult fragrances), the untouchable master of perfumery, to work with him, and launched Juliette Has a Gun.

For purposes of this review, I'm concentrating on Lady Vengeance. 'Tis an elegant fragrance with a bit of mysterious rose, sultry vanilla and seductive patchouli, which offers a bit of edge, a bit of earthy-woodiness to it, though not overpowering. It's a sweet fragrance, though not too, and I think may best be worn in fall or autumn when the coolness of the air may summon the warmth of the fragrance. I'd also wear this to bed at night as sultry, sexy dreams are sure to abound with the lovely blending of Bulgarian Rose, vanilla and patchouli Lady Vengeance exudes.

The packaging with its black opaque bottle, yet feminine style works to support the theme of Juliette Has a Gun - Shakesperian heroine goes wild - and assists in focusing on the trendiness of the line as well. Edgy yet girly, sexy yet subtle, it works. The fragrance also comes in refillable purse bullets; again, the rocker chic vibe is hard to miss.

Lady Vengeance is one of those fragrances that changes over time. Spray it on your wrist and enjoy the headiness of the aroma, then sniff again after an hour and indulge in another variety, another dimension of the notes.

The rose is by far the focal point of the fragrance. Having said that, there are a number of other fragrances on the market with a very similar scent. I've heard it be compared to Agent Provocateur (though not as complex), Midnight Poison (though fresher, lighter), L'Artisan Voleur de Rose (though not as gutsy and a bit sweeter). So although this isn't the most original rose fragrance available, it is quite delicious and definitely worth grabbing whether you're wanting to indulge your own olfactory sense, or drive another to want to eat you up!

Lady Vengeance is available in 50 ml and 100 ml bottles retailing for $85/$110 respectively.  The purse bullet set with refillable vibes retails at $75. You'll find Lady Vengeance, along with other Juliette Has a Gun fragrances, at the beautifully modern, always illuminating, niche beauty boutique b-glowing.com. Enjoy! xo

images: b-glowing, BeautyNewsNYC, stylehive

Win a $195 Clarisonic Classic Brush in Pink‏: One More Reason to Love b-glowing

b-glowing, the ultimate in niche beauty, is giving away a free Pink Clarisonic Classic worth $195!

They'd like your help in spreading the word about b-glowing.com. In order to enter they need your help with the following:

*Follow b-glowing on Twitter (bglowingcom)

*RT to one of their messages on Twitter

*Follow them on Facebook (b-glowing)

*Re-Post this message on your Facebook

*Send them a b-glowing product review to use on their blog (approximately 200 words)

b-glowing will pick a winner on Friday, 6/7/10. Good luck and thank you for helping to spread the b-glowing love! xo

Like Shopping in Heaven ~ Illuminate Inside & Out with b-glowing

So where do you go when you want to pick up a little something special for yourself, a friend or a loved one? Somewhere brimming with luxurious treasures where each item comes to you beautifully packaged in scarlet red tissue and is meticulously created to rejuvenate, renew, revive? There's no question, really.  It's online niche boutique b-glowing.

adara Organic Virgin Coconut Oil - 2 oz travel size $12 each
Nature's Multi-Tasker! Skin: Gently soothe onto skin daily or as needed when skin feels thirsty and needs comfort. Rough Patches: Helps to lock in moisture which is essential to keep skin soft and smooth. Ideal relief for dry rough patches. Aids in the removal of dead skin cells to promote growth of smooth and supple skin. Pimple Healer: Apply adara as a pimple treatment overnight. The cleansing properities of the lauric acid will help remove bacteria so that redness will fade and inflamation will subside. Hair Treatment: Massage into hair and cover with shower cap for 30 minutes prior to normal wash for a intensive deep conditioning treatment. Apply on dry split ends for smooth flowing locks. Coating hair with a thin layer prior to going for a swim protects hair from damages caused by chlorine or salty seawater. Scents: green tea, lavender, peach, unscented, rose, jasmine.

b.e. becker.eshaya - Eau De Parfum Fragrance Pen - .28 oz $45
This is truly one of my favorite fragrances as so light, fresh, clean, shlightly floral and not at all overpowering! Italian Mandarin, Pink Peony, Lily of the Valley, and Rose Damascena. A classic fragrance for the ages! Celebrity fans include Julia Roberts, Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Cameron Diaz and many other women with fabulous taste, just like you!

butter LONDON Nail Lacquers - $14 each
butter LONDON is a 3 Free company. No Formaldehyde, No Toluene, and No DBP. As well as providing the safest nail products on the market, butter LONDON is devoted to bringing high fashion to your nails. We boast a unique and fashion-forward colour palette created by our Creative Director, Nonie Creme, backstage at the world’s top catwalk shows.

• Chimney Sweep: Smudgy, sexy, and just a little dirty. A proper charcoal grey with a touch of a metallic finish.
• Cream Tea: Barely there and ever so sweet. Pale and creamy, an alternative to your standard clear or sheer pink.
• Fash Pack: One of the hottest shades of the season with its "greige" coloring! An edgy and unusual colour. Putty meets mushroom. Sounds strange and wrong, but somehow it works, like deep fried Mars bars. (an actual English delicacy).
• HRH ("Her Royal Highness"): A proper purple. Even the Queen would agree, and she never agrees.
• Yummy Mummy: Their magic lacquer. This medium beige colour is simply stunning on EVERY skin colour. If you can’t decide on a lacquer, then we will for you. It’s this.
• Chuffed-Jelly: Juicy, sheer colour that looks and feels like slick, wet “lipgloss” for your nails. These are designed to be layered, so you can wear just one coat for a hint/blush of colour and healthy glow, or two for better coverage of little nail problems and more colour, or three for juicy, barely sheer summer colours that are good enough to eat.

foreverlily eau de parfum - 3.4 oz bottle $125
For those who seek what is good, true and beautiful comes a fragrance that calls you to your higher self. The result is an enveloping Oriental blend with a top note dominated by clove and sweet accents of lemon and fresh lychee. The fresh green crispness of fig and the feminine presence of stargazer lily are equally balanced in the middle note. The base note is comprised of cedarwood, vanilla, amber and sandalwood. An fragrance that evokes a deeper experience of life and a profound feeling of hope. Protective and meditative, foreverlily is an olfactory bridge to another world, one in which eternal love and beauty surround you.

Infusion Organique Sands of Morocco - 1.7 oz bottle $35
Close your eyes, and wander through the fresh flower and food stalls of the local Moroccan Souk. Inhale the spices drifting on the desert winds of North Africa. Ride the train from Marrakech to Casablanca to Tangier. Smell the fresh vanilla first brought to Morocco by tne French in the time of the Berber Kings. Add a touch of aromatic sandalwood and warm oak moss to a blend of certified organic lemongrass oil and ylang-ylang for a scent as warm as the Mediterranean sun.

Lisa Hoffman Japanese Argarwood - Limited Edition 2 vial set $43
TOP FIVE FRAGRANCE OF THE YEAR!!! During the Fragrance of the Year Awards, this fragrance was selected as one of the Top Five Fragrances in 2009. Inspired by the lush, natural oils from the rainforest with subtle hints of Italian Bergamot, Spiced Ginger Accord, and Warm Amber. Within this complex, one also discovers mysterious earth nuances that are a delight to explore.

Love & Toast Gin Blossom Handcreme - 1.2 oz tube $9
Happy hydration. Natural super-softeners Shea Butter, Macadamia Nut & Olive Fruits team up with pore pleasing Avocado & Sunflower Oils. Add to the mix a botanical perfume blend and now you've got your perfect dream cream: a lightweight & luxurious lotion.

PurepleLab Huge Lips Skinny Hips - $25 each
Yes, no secret I adore these plumping glosses! Wildly popular (This is the product that started the whole PurpleLab phenomenon with Karen Robinovitz, Creatrix Extraordinaire, at the helm)! The answer to every girl's beauty dream - sophisticated lip color, plumping performance and a natural way to curb those cravings with the infusion of Hoodia, extract from a cactus-like plant that has been used in South Africa for centuries for its appetite suppressing qualities. Sheer, soft colors that flatter any skintone ...

• Kitty Poledancer - Nudish Pink Sheer
• Red Sole - Sultra Sexy Fierce Red Very Very Sheer...a bee stung look
• No Panty Lines - Clear as Crystal
• Love Your Thighs - Exotic Coral, but still translucent
• Worship Kate - slightly darker pink with hints of mauve & shimmer

New arrival!  b-glowing now carries Kinerase.  To celebrate, they're offering a complimentary, full-size Kinerase Lotion ($63 value) with your purchase of $100 or more. Enter code: kinerase at checkout to request your free gift. Offer good thru 5/10/10.

All purchases from b-glowing come beautifully packaged and include an array of gorgeous free samples. It's ALWAYS a pleasurable experience shopping with them!  Enjoy free shipping within the contiguous United States with your order of $75 or more.

The Subtle Sanctity of Royal Apothic The Extracts Collection

The story behind the creation of Royal Apothic is as intriguing as the fragrances themselves, and thus I must share it.  As the tale goes, Creative Director Sean O'Mara spent the early part of his career as a beauty insider working with an array of beauty industry giants (Estee Lauder, Murad, et al). But it was while on sabbatical in London that he came upon what would be the impetus for the next course of his life.

Tucked high on a shelf in a forgotten Notting Hill antique stall this hidden treasure revealed itself to be an apothecary manual from the 18th century.  Formulas for concoctions created for many of the great monarchies of Europe were listed within its pages. Knowing he could tie his own expertise into the formulas, O'Mara returned to the U.S. and began duplicating the fragrances listed within the manual - Royal Apothic was born.

Having infused the world with his now famous home fragrances, interior perfumes and candles, O'Mara gives into requests of his devotees with the creation of The Extracts Collection - personal, perfumed fragrance oils infused with natural plant extracts that can be worn individually or blended to create one's own signature scent.

These roll-on bottled fragrances are perfect for summer in that they are light, refreshing and subtle in scent.  The packaging is gift-worthy with each glass fragrance bottle placed in its own colorful, striped box and labeled with old-world themed markings.  That the labels are affixed slightly askew on both the outer box and the roll-on bottles adds to the feeling that these treasures were personally hand-made and formulated just for you.

The Extracts Collections consists of seven one-note elixirs:

Green Tea (fresh)

Violette Pastille (floral)

Fig (fruit)

Orange Blossom (fruit)

Marigold (floral)

Iris (floral)

Hydrangea (floral)

I've experienced two from the collection, Green Tea and Iris, and am hard pressed to say which is my favorite.  Very distinct in character, both evoke happy memories of childhood, when there wasn't a care in the world, and the outdoor summer air was fresh and inviting.  I had my daughter (15 yr old beauty, fashion and fragrance diva in her own right) try them as well to see which she preferred.  She loved them both.  There we sat, two fragrance-obsessed women, atop my overstuffed white duvet covered bed blending and rolling fragrance on our wrists.  One would think I'd have learned my lesson by now about sharing these great little finds with my baby girl, as it ultimately always results in her stealing them away and tucking them in a secret box in her closet or under linen in her drawers (shhhhh ... she thinks I don't  know where she stashes them). Mmmmmm, even as I write this post I'm enjoying the fresh, light scent of Green Tea on my wrists.  You can't roll on too much ... they're that subtle.  Oh my gosh this smells so good!

The convenience of a slim roll-on bottle makes it safe (leakproof) and perfect to throw into your beach bag this summer, your gym bag as extra refreshment from a rigorous workout and warm shower, or your duffle before boarding your next international flight (TSA approved).

Currently, only five of the extracts are available for purchase - Green Tea, Violette Pastille, Orange Blossom, Marigold and Fig - with the others though soon to follow.  Royal Apothic The Extracts Collection is available at Anthropologie and b-glowing, each .33 fl oz roll-on bottle retails for $16, which means you can buy a couple or several to wear each on its own merit or blended for a uniquely created scent. Enjoy!

Valentine's Ideas from My Fave "Scentoriums"

SPIRIT BEAUTY LOUNGE - where gorgeousness with an eco flair reigns in abundance



BEAUTYHABIT - where gifts of luxury are always found in delicious varieties



B-GLOWING - where independent brands reign supreme and little gifts of lusciousness draw a crowd



Shop Spirit Beauty Lounge, Beautyhabit and b-glowing for more fantastic gifting options!

Butter London Nail Polishes Fall 2009 Collection

butter LONDON is a 3 Free company – No Formaldehyde, No Toluene, and No DBP. As well as providing the safest nail products on the market, butter LONDON is devoted to bringing high fashion to your nails. They boast a unique and fashion-forward colour palette created by their Creative Director, Nonie Creme, backstage at the world’s top catwalk shows.

As seen in Vogue, W, Lucky and People Stylewatch magazines. The international motor racing colour of Great Britain. This green used to be the standard paint colour on all Formula One racecars in the days before sponsorship. AND, dark, “hunter green” was the backstage darling when used at this season’s shows.

For more information on butter LONDON, check them out at b-glowing. They have a great little special for you right now:

Purchase $50 at b-glowing.com & receive their Deluxe Fall Fragrance Sampler Set. These fragrances feature notes of Amber, Vanilla, Cocoa, Chocolate, Spicy Carnation & other warm sensual scents ideal to become your Fall Signature Scent!

*Voluspa Cocoa Tamarind
*Sarah Horowitz Perfect Bliss
*Mistral Balinese Vanilla
*Lily Lambert Pavo
*Zorica of Malibu's Gratitude
*Filles des Iles Solaire

Enter promo code: sensual at checkout for the offer. Offer ends 9/21/09.

REVIEW: Diana B. Green Tea Desert Grapefruit Sugar Scrub

Mmmm ... the fresh, juicy decadence of Diana B. Sugar Scrubs

Imagine being able to mix and create textures to bathe with, as you would combine fragrances to personalize them. Sugar Scrub with a little Bath Gel for more slip and bubbles. Body Lotion and Sugar Scrub to shave. Add a scoop of scrub to soften and sweeten the bath water when you don’t feel like scrubbing. Straight scrub on pure wet skin for optimal effect followed by drying off and putting on lotion with a fabulous candle lit in the bathroom and nearby bedroom to scent your environment while you play with your products, refine your skin, tone and hydrate your skin and feel and smell wonderful. No rules, totally safe interchangeable products use fragrances all created to enliven your daily routine with playful intuitive choices that delight the senses and lift your spirits. That's what Diana B. gives you through her gorgeous, luxurious products.

Diana B. sugar scrubs are all natural, totally oil free, wax free, chemical free and are safe for the most sensitive skin.

Green Tea Desert Grapefruit contains powerful antioxidant Green Tea essence that helps to fight against free radical damage that ages skin prematurely. This formula contains sugar and salt with cane sugar syrup. Soothing Grapefruit essence helps to heal surface impurities with its high concentration of Vitamin C, also creating balanced PH for your skin.

REVIEW: More than twice the size of the average sugar scrub on the market, you'll want a jar of this scrumptious Diana B. Sugar Scrub in your bathroom for these hot summer months. I'm completely in love with her Green Tea Desert Grapefruit variety. Gentle on skin, light and refined in scent with an air of fresh green notes and juicy grapefruit, one can't help but be hooked on this scrub after just one use. Skin emerges from the bath smooth, hydrated, glowing and very lightly fragranced. Oh my gosh, this scrub is so lovely. It's a wonderful exfoliant to use before applying self-tanning products. (She also makes an award winning self-tanner - and it's fabulous.) The fact that it's oil free allows us to use this delight in the shower and tub without the aggravation of having to clean out a residue. There's nothing to clean up. Don't let the fact that it contains no oil fool you into thinking it's a dry scrub, though, as this is a juicy (not just moist) scrub in every sense. The sophisticated citrusy-green tea scent enlivens the whole room without being too sweet and definitely not over-powering. It's really more of a fresh, leafy scent than a sweet citrus scent. Yet the experience of ripe, juicy grapefruit is definitely present. This is a fragrance even the most particular of noses will enjoy. As the jar is so big, this will last you forever. It's definitely more than a three month supply. Diana B. Sugar Scrubs come in these inspired scents: Green Tea Desert Grapefruit, Maple Sugar Lychee Nut, Peach Frangipani Flower, Black Fig and Chocolate.

Diana B. products are available through a number of fine beauty boutiques, including b-glowing, one of my favorites (as you know). At b-glowing you'll always experience fantastic customer service, fast shipment, knowledgeable assistance with any questions you may have about their products, and delightful complimentary goodies with each purchase. They're just wonderful! x