The spring exhibit of the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Last night the stars shined for the 2012 Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute Gala. Each year this spectacular event, known as the “Fashion Oscars” celebrates the Costume Institute’s spring exhibit honoring fashion icons. Past exhibits have included Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty, the American Woman, Models as Muses, and Superheroes. This year’s exhibit juxtaposes the similarities of Italian designers Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada, despite being from different eras, in “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations.”

Celebrities, designers, stylists and socialites cascaded up the red carpet stairs at The Met, with many of the modeling and acting muses being escorted by couture designers. Some of my favorite beauty and fashion trends of the night included gold sequins, couture color blocking, and bold makeup. Check out my top looks:

Gold Sequins and Intricate Beading

L to R: Karolina Kurvova in Rachel Zoe, Scarlett Johansson in Dolce & Gabbana (My Best Dressed Nominee!), Jessica Pare in L’Wren Scott. Images via Styleite and Getty

Popped Peplums

L to R: Solange Knowles in Rachel Roy, Amy Poehler in Fotini, Elizabeth Banks in Mary Katrantzou. Images via Styleite and Getty

Peekaboo Sheer

L to R: Rooney Mara in Givenchy, Beyonce in Givenchy, Marion Cotillard in Christian Dior. Images via Styleite and USA Today

Mocha Lips on Metallic Hips

L to R: Jessica Alba in Michael Kors, Camilla Belle in Ralph Lauren, Lana del Rey in Altuzarra. Images via Styleite and Getty

And it wouldn’t be complete without fashion’s fearless leader:

Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour (in Prada) and her daughter Bee Shaffer (in Erdem). Image via Getty

 What was your favorite look from the Met Gala?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

This weekend, I celebrated Cinco de Mayo with over one hundred fragrance lovers at the 16^th Sniffapalooza! Started by Karen Dubin and Karen Adams, Sniffapalooza is the ultimate perfume lover’s festival celebrating and exploring fragrances and scented oils. Twice a year “Team Karen” hosts a two-day tour de sniff, the Spring Fling and the Fall Ball, where hundreds of scent lovers tour the top fragrance houses and sniff their way through thousands of samples. Some brands even create special editions and provide early releases for the dedicated tours which take place in the U.S. and internationally.

Having allergy-prone and reactive skin has always made me nervous about trying new perfumes and formulas, both natural and synthetic. So I couldn’t think of a better way to experiment than with members of the industry and fragrance devotees. I learned so much and met some amazing people whose passion for perfume is unrivaled. And one of the best parts of Sniffapalooza is the infamous gift bags filled with samples, so look out for more product reviews soon.

Below is a recap and pictures of day one – I wasn’t able to attend day two. View the full set of pictures on the Champagne Beauty Facebook page!

Bergdorf Goodman

Saturday morning started with the legendary Bergdorf Breakfast in the Bergdorf Goodman store’s café. I sat with the hilarious Yolanda Shoshanda of Luscious Lifestyle (who makes her own natural scented oils!) and the chic Kimberly Waters of ReminiSCENT. Representatives (and even a few founders) from fragrance houses presented newly released editions and provided samples like Chanel, Tom Ford, Atelier Cologne, Prada, Balenciaga, Valentino and Chloé. I also learned about Oud, a rare Arabic resin released by the Aquilaria tree species, that is the latest star of the fragrance world. In pure form it has an earthy rain scent, and high-end brands like Robert Piguet, Kilian and Maison infuse it with rose, jasmine and spices to give it a unique flair.

Arielle of Scents of Self, her dress is a pattern of perfume bottles!

After breakfast and presentations, the sniffas were off, stopping by over 50 makeup and fragrance counters on the Bergdorf beauty level. I sampled hundreds of scents from the likes of Guerlain, Jo Malone, Caron, Francis Kurkdjian, and A Dozen Roses. This was a great opportunity to test across the scent scale, from fruits to florals to spices. Another trend was with more brands expanding into highly scented candles that directly mirror the body fragrances.

Lunch at Opia

 Author Alyssa Harad of “Coming To My Senses”

Author M.J. Rose of The Book of Lost Fragrances

Next up was a luncheon at Opia with unique presentations from The Fragrance Foundation, Department of Olfactory Art at the Museum of Arts and Design, and a variety of fragrance houses. Givaudan presented the iPerfumer mobile app, which uses an algorithm and research from over 80,000 users around the world to make fragrance recommendations. Megan McIntyre of fashion and beauty site Refinery 29 spoke about how their beauty readers are quite sophisticated and demand more than celebrity fragrances. Veronika Bartosch, introduced us to Naked-Scent, a website and service that uses unbranded samples to help members discover new fragrances, including independent and niche. Authors Alyssa Harad and M.J. Rose sat at my table and described their novels and memoirs infused with the love of fragrance.

Henri Bendel

Jacomo’s “It’s Me” men’s and women’s scents

After lunch we went to the remodeled fragrance floor of the famous specialty luxury store Henri Bendel. The store’s eponymous brand has a great selection of fragrances, and I also perused the trunk shows of Jacomo’s “It’s Me“ men and women’s fragrance shaped like iPhones, and Illuminum’s debut of White Gardenia Petals Anniversary Edition that Kate Middleton wore during the royal wedding.

Krigler at The Plaza Hotel

A few blocks uptown we stopped by Krigler Perfumerie at the Plaza Hotel. They treated us to wine and macaroons while debuting the new Oud Azur 75 (told you oud was big!), which will be released publicly in June. I fell in love with iconic 209, Jackie O, and Grace Kelly scents.

Bond No. 9

The last stop on the olfactory Sniffapalooza train was the Madison Avenue location of New York’s own Bond No. 9 boutique. They feature unique scents named after New York landmarks like Washington Square Park, Central Park West, and I Love NY. There were also new releases like Andy Warhol which has a sultry seductive scent.

After over 9 hours of walking, sniffing and sampling, my feet were as exhausted as my nose was tantalized! I highly recommend all perfume and fragrance lovers or those interested in learning more about the industry to sign up for the Sniffapalooza Fall Ball or next year’s Spring Fling. Team Karen puts on a great event, and there are so many industry experts and enthusiasts to guide you…not to mention the gift bags are a beauty girl’s dream!

Check out more pics on the Champagne Beauty Facebook page!

What is your favorite fragrance?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

For April’s Birchbox, our favorite monthly beauty sample subscription service provided products with Mother Earth’s stamp of approval. Eco friendly and non-toxic beauty and lifestyle products to celebrate Earth Week.

Let’s take a look at this compilation of natural ingredients that even includes laundry detergent!

Juice Beauty Oil-free Moisturizer

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

This oil-free moisturizer is part of Juice Beauty’s Blemish Clearing Collection that uses naturally derived ingredients to combat uneven skin, blemishes and acne, even for sensitive skin and allergies. I could feel the rich difference of it being loaded with high levels of fruit juice rather than water. The moisture lasted all day without extra touch-ups for my dry skin, and my skin felt flexible without any shine.

Ingredients: Organic juices of pyrus malus (organic apple juice)*, vitis vinifera (organic white grape juice)*, punica granatum (organic pomegranate juice)*, aloe barbadensis (organic aloe leaf juice)*, organic botanical extracts of cucumis sativus (organic cucumber extract)*, taraxacum officinale (organic dandelion leaf extract)*, salvia officinalis (organic sage leaf extract)*, melissa officinalis (lemon balm leaf extract), vegetable glycerin, caprylic/capric triglyceride, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, panthenol (Vitamin B5), tocopherol (Vitamin E), algae extract, ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C), ethylhexyl (octyl) palmitate, cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl glucoside, sodium PCA, hyaluronic acid, xanthan gum, sodium hydroxide, phenethyl alcohol (sage derived), citrus aurantium (sweet orange & petitgrain) and cinnamomum camphora (ho wood) pure essential oils *certified organic by a USDA approved agency

Zoya TRUE Spring Collection Nail Polish in Tru

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

This metallic light grape red-toned purple is bold enough to wear year-round. The gold shimmer gives color-changing red and orange effects in the light. Zoya is a great non-toxic brand free of formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, and camphor which can easily irritate skin. With 2 coats and top coat, this color lasted 9 days before serious chipping.

Ingredients: N/A

Wonderstruck Taylor Swift Perfume

Champagne Rating: 3 out of 5 bottles

Similar to Taylor Swift, this is a fun, light and girly scent. It has an aura of flowers and fruit, perfect for daytime and weekend flair, but I wouldn’t recommend for evening or date night.

Ingredients: N/A

amika Obliphica Nourishing Mask

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

I love this deep conditioner! A creamy sensation made with natural ingredients that left my scalp clear and each hair strand fully hydrated. The Moroccan argan olil and obliphica oil nourish strands in this sulfate and paraben free formula. After using this as a deep conditioning treatment I was able to go three days without added water or product, and it kept its moisture without added frizz.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetyl alcohol, Cetearyl alcohol, Cetrimonium chloride, Panthenol, Behentrimonium chloride, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) seed oil, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene glycol, Argania spinosa kernel oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Hippophae rhamnoides (Obliphica) oil, Ascorbic acid, Citric acid

Dropps Laundry Detergent

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

These eco-friendly individual laundry detergent packs are easy to toss in the washer. The ingredients are fabric friendly, excluding the enzymes used in typical detergents that can damage colors and fabrics. They also make dye and scent free for sensitive skin.

Ingredients:
Fresh Scent
Laureth (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Polxoxyethylene Oleyl Ether (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Propylene Carbonate (Progessing Agent), Hexylene Glycol (Processing Agent), Agua (Water)
Scent + Dye Free
Laureth – 7 (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Polyoxyethylene Oleyl Ether (Plant Derived + Biodegradable Cleaning Agent), Ipa (Progessing Agent), Hexylene Glycol (Processing Agent), Agua (Water)

What are your favorite eco-friendly products?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

As much as I love wearing makeup and playing with colors and styles, it is so refreshing to see…a fresh face. In People Magazine’s 2012 “Most Beautiful Women” issue, many celebs opted for raw skin and no makeup for their photo shoots. I was so excited to see Beyoncé making the cover as People’s 2012 Most Beautiful Woman, but even more inspired to see the following celebs in the rough, reminding our inner little girl that natural is beautiful!

Take a look at these beauties who still shine sans makeup:

Lily Collins

The “Mirror Mirror” movie actress glows in her fair Snow White skin.

Paula Patton

This “Mission Impossible” actress kicks *ss with a clear complexion she attributes to living life in moderation.

Zooey Deschanel

“New Girl” Zooey shows off her piercing aqua eyes.

Jessica Pare

Don Draper’s “Mad Men” wife is a classic beauty.

Go behind the scenes with an inside peek of the photo shoots:

Video: Beyoncé

Video: Jessica Pare

When’s the last time you bared it all makeup free?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

*All images via People Magazine

The Man Code series features topics and news in men’s grooming and lifestyle
recommended by male tastemakers

Ladies, forward this post to your favorite guy…this session is for the men! Some of my loyal male readers reached out asking for products and advice made specifically for their masculine needs. Since this site is dedicated to all types of unique skin, I was more than happy to strike up the conversation. To ensure the very best, I reached out to some male bloggers, editors, brand managers, and good ol’ product junkies to offer their opinions on men’s grooming.

Up first is Martin Jean of Flawless Crowns, a site dedicated to “Luxury Fit For A King.” Let’s see what he recommends for the royal gents:

Tell us about Flawless Crowns

Flawlesscrowns.com is an online gentleman’s luxury destination dedicated to celebrating the king in all of us. We cover cigars, wines & spirits, fashion, travel, and more.

Flawless Crowns speaks to the modern male who shares a goal in excellence and can appreciate quality throughout all sectors of the living the good life.

Flawlesscrowns.com showcases the products and services available from the most prestigious luxury brands around the globe, but also provides its sophisticated readership with detailed insight into a range of these subjects, which include luxury automobiles, yachts, travel, fashion, fine watches, art, wine, state-of-the-art home electronics and much more.

For connoisseurs seeking the very best that life has to offer, Flawlesscrowns.com remains the essential luxury resource.

Tell us about yourself

Martin Jean is a true gentleman of leisure who fancies unique style, cigars, wines & spirits, travel and more. He is the founder of gentleman’s lifestyle site www.FlawlessCrowns.com that caters to the tailored and well groomed.

Do you have any skin concerns or allergies?

Sensitive skin and razor bumps. Allergic to heavily artificially scented products.

What product do you recommend for men?

Spencer & Devon Shea Butter Premium Shaving Cream (Unscented)

Spencer & Devon Shaving Cream is a product that is perfect for me due to the texture and main ingredients. This unscented version has a nice body to it as when I apply it to my face, I feel the weight of it is sufficient to protect my skin but it isn’t too heavy. The main ingredient is Aloe Vera which is a natural substance that is great for your skin. Additionally the razor glide motioned with ease against this product.

Purchase Price: $27.50
Purchase Location: www.spencerdevon.com

What are your tips for a clean shave?

The best way to open up your pores is with a hot shower or hot towel. Utilize a pre-shave oil on your face that will form a protective barrier between the blade and the skin. Apply the shaving cream in a circular motion to move your facial hair around and lift it up which will help your blade be more effective. Shave downwards to lower the hair and then lather again with shaving cream and shave upwards for a closer finish. Clean your face off with cold water and use some after shave balm to hydrate your face. Smile.

What’s the one product you can’t live without?

Frederick Benjamin Hair Care For Men

Get more luxury lifestyle tips and trends from Flawless Crowns:
www.FlawlessCrowns.com
Twitter: @FlawlessCrowns
Tumblr: www.FlawlessCrowns.tumblr.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Flawless-Crowns

Cognacs, what are your favorite men’s grooming products?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

*All images via Flawless Crowns

You are cordially invited to join my blogger buddy Natasha of Asili Glam and Antoinette & Shanti of Around The Way Curls for the must attend spring curly hair soiree:

Curl Daze: A Curly Girl Collabo!

On May 17th, from 8-11pm at Stash Lounge in NYC you can enjoy complimentary Ciroc cocktails, hair demos, product advice, and hear from top natural hair bloggers and hair stylists. You don’t want to miss the raffles and prizes like the Huetiful Steamer – what is it… be there to find out!

Essence Magazine street style photographers will be on deck for photos and Mane Moves will film all the action. After you mix, mingle, swap and dance, you’ll be sent home with Gift Bags stocked with your favorite curly hair products like Karen’s Body Beautiful, Kinky Curly, JessiCurl & more!

Whether you are natural or transitioning, expert or confused, black, white, purple or orange, this natural hair celebration is for you!

After 11pm the party continues for guys, gals and all of your friends. Tell them to come dance and toast the good life!

Event Details:

Curl Daze – A Curly Girl Collabo
Date: Thursday May 17th
Time: 8-11pm
After Party 11pm – until
Location: Stash Lounge, 214 West 14th Street, Manhattan, NY

RSVP for the FREE Wait List: www.curldaze.eventbrite.com

Questions? Email: thechampagnebeauty@gmail.com or asiliglam@gmail.com. See you there!

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

In honor of Earth Day and Earth Week, I want to explore two of the biggest buzz words in beauty, health and nutrition… “natural” and “organic.” Many vow to only eat organic and natural products, or only use beauty products with those labels. Not that I’m opposed to being selective and attempting a healthier lifestyle, but I do feel those on the natural and organic snob train should understand the meanings and regulations (or lack thereof) behind the labels.

Many of your favorite foods and products labeled organic and natural are only partially derived of certified ingredients, and even those are not heavily regulated. Marketing jargon also allows producers and manufacturers to incorporate language that can be misleading.

Take a look and form your own opinion:

FOOD

Summary

From the Food Marketing Institute

In food regulation, organic and natural have two different definitions, both in what they mean and how they are derived. Organic production and handling is certified by 3^rd party organizations that are accredited but not regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Beyond typical food regulations and health codes, foods and ingredients labeled natural are not regulated by the FDA.

Definitions

From the Food Marketing Institute

Organic – Refers to the food or ingredient itself and how it was produced. Foods labeled organic must be certified under the National Organic Program (NOP), which regulates the growing and farming methods. They must be grown without synthetic pesticides, bioengineered genes, petroleum-based fertilizers and sewage based fertilizers.

Natural – Applies broadly to food or ingredients that are minimally processed and free of synthetic preservatives, artificial additives, and growth hormones.

Key Facts

From the Food Marketing Institute and the FDA

• The term “organic” is not defined by law or regulations FDA enforces
• The USDA states that the lack of pesticides can make organic food vulnerable to bacteria and parasites, and also have a shorter shelf life
• Products labeled “100 percent organic” must contain only organically produced materials
• Products labeled “organic” must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients
• Products that contain between 70 and 95 percent organic ingredients may use the phrase “made with organic ingredients” on the label and may list up to three of the organic ingredients (e.g., carrots) or food groups (e.g., vegetables) on the principal display area
• Products with less than 70 percent organic ingredients may not use the term organic other than to identify specific organic ingredients

COSMETICS

Summary

From the FDA

Certification requirements for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients are similar to the certifications for food, as a majority of ingredients are edible food and plant derived. Cosmetic products are regulated by FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN).

Key Facts

From the FDA

Does FDA have a definition for the term “organic”?

No. FDA regulates cosmetics under the authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). The term “organic” is not defined in either of these laws or the regulations that FDA enforces under their authority.

How is the term “organic” regulated?

The Agricultural Marketing Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the National Organic Program (NOP). The NOP regulations include a definition of “organic” and provide for certification that agricultural ingredients have been produced under conditions that would meet the definition. They also include labeling standards based on the percentage of organic ingredients in a product. For more information on “organic” labeling for cosmetics, see the NOP publication, “Cosmetics, Body Care Products, and Personal Care Products.”

If a cosmetic is labeled “organic” according to the USDA, is it still subject to the laws and regulations enforced by FDA?

Yes. The USDA requirements for the use of the term “organic” are separate from the laws and regulations that FDA enforces for cosmetics. Cosmetic products labeled with organic claims must comply with both USDA regulations for the organic claim and FDA regulations for labeling and safety requirements for cosmetics. Information on FDA’s regulation of cosmetics is available on our Cosmetics Web site.

Image via VanityRich.com

Has FDA set limits for lead in cosmetics?

No, FDA has not set limits for lead in cosmetics. FDA has set specifications for lead in color additives used in cosmetics. FDA approval of color additives is based on safety evaluations that consider the color additives’ intended uses and estimated consumer exposure resulting from those uses. FDA-approved color additives are listed in Title 21 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). To learn more about FDA-approved color additives, see Color Additives.

What are FDA’s next steps for lead in lipstick?

Although we do not believe that the lead content found in our recent lipstick analyses poses a safety concern, we are evaluating whether there may be a need to recommend an upper limit for lead in lipstick in order to further protect the health and welfare of consumers.

USDA offers organic certification programs

To be safe and as accurate as possible, check for the USDA Organic certified logo on products, ingredients and foods. Organic and natural products are great alternatives for sensitive skin and allergies. It’s important to scrutinize what you put in and on your body, but remember the Champagne Beauty saying “not all organic is good, and not all synthetic is bad.”

Knowledge is POWER! Happy Earth Day!

References:
Food & Drug Administration
Food Marketing Institute
National Organic Program (NOP)

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

Event invitation via BeautySweetSpot.com

Last night, the French all-natural botanical luxury hair care line Phyto Universe, teamed up with The Nature Conservancy and Jeannine Morris, TV host and beauty editor of BeautySweetSpot.com, to celebrate Earth Week.

The oasis and private lounges at the Phyto Salon & Spa

Held at the luxurious Phyto Universe salon and spa in midtown NYC, which resembles a tropical oasis, the event spread awareness about the Nature Conservancy’s mission for land and water protection, and showcased Phyto’s green ingredients and recyclable containers.

Products include (L) The Nature Conservancy limited-edition Phytopolléine scalp elixir, and (R) PhytoSpecific shampoo and conditioner for curls, relaxed, and frizzy hair

Although I am a fond friend of the Phyto and PhytoSpecific hair care lines, this was my first time receiving a blowout in their salon. Their collection has a product for every need and sensitivity including dry hair, ultra dry hair, frizz, color treated, and even normal healthy hair. The ingredients are derived of pure plant extracts, 100% essential oils, and contain no silicones, parabens or synthetics, perfect for sensitive skin and allergies, and incorporates sustainable ingredients.

Treated to a relaxing scalp massage with Phytopolléine elixir
Image via David Bowers

At the event, Jeannine Morris greeted me with her signature smile, and introduced me to the Nature Conservancy’s cause and a variety of Phyto products. Then I was whisked away for a pre-wash oil scalp treatment massage with Phytopolléine elixir oil that works to stabilize moisture and PH, clear build up, and also protects ends from splitting.

Ron Williams washing and conditioning my hair with the Phytolisse collection
Image via David Bowers

Celebrity hair stylist Ron Williams then took me on a hair safari into my own private cabana. He shampooed and conditioned with Phytolisse smoothing shampoo and Phytolisse mask, and sealed in moisture with the Phytodéfrisant balm and Phytolisse serum, both heat protectants. All products from the Anti-Frizz collection.

 The finished product post blowout!

Ron blow dryed my curly poof into soft flowing tresses, and then gently bumped the ends with a flat iron to polish the look. I hardly recognized myself with straight hair, and I loved how soft, light and clear it felt!

Get your hair appointment with Ron Williams today, get customized products for your hair needs, or schedule a luxurious spa appointment, tell them Alicia from Champagne Beauty sent you!

Phyto Universe Salon & Spa
715 Lexington Avenue  New York, NY 10155
(212) 308-0270
www.phytouniverse.com

How are you celebrating Earth Week?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

Black Girls Run! NYC chapter at the More-Fitness Magazine Half Marathon
Image via Megan White

As a long time fitness enthusiast, I frequent the gym and love to try the newest quirkiest classes out there. Yet, at this past Sunday’s More Magazine-Fitness Magazine Half Marathon my body was shocked, pushed and stretched to lengths I never knew I could achieve! With the help of my friends, family and my intoxicatingly supportive running group, the New York City chapter of Black Girls Run!, I made it through the 13.1 miles and steep hills of Central Park, inspiring others and myself in my biggest physical and mental challenge yet.

I finished! 13.1 miles!

Too often the beauty industry highlights outer beauty while the fashion industry (though much improved) still paints unrealistic portraits of body image. At Champagne Beauty, I truly believe in “Sparkling beauty for unique skin,” but more importantly, sparkling beauty for unique and healthy lives.

Let’s take a look at 3 ways to jump start your spring/summer health and fitness plans, because healthy has always been the new beauty:

SoulCycle offers upbeat and unique spin classes

1. Fitness Is The New Happy Hour

Skip the drinks and heavy appetizers, instead invite a friend, date, or even a client to a fitness party in the evening. Try something fun like a dance class like Zumba, a cult spin class like Soul Cycle nationwide, or simply enjoy the warm weather with a 30 minute jog in the park. Black Girls Run! is a nationwide supportive running group for women of all ages, ethnicities and skill levels, membership is open to all women.

Image via Getty

2. Fitness Is The New Commute

Next time you go to work, an event or the store, park your car a little further or get off the subway one stop earlier and walk. In NYC, if you get on one station later (about 10 city blocks) and get off one station earlier (about 10 city blocks) right there in your morning commute you’ve already walked one mile (20 city blocks)!

Image via Getty

3. Whole Foods Are The New Beauty

At an event last week, I met a woman who swore by only organic beauty products as she stuffed a larger than life Cheeto in her mouth followed by a huge swig of Coke. I’m no nutritionist, but uh…perhaps she should focus some of that organic willpower to what she puts IN her body, not just on it. Organic and all-natural foods aren’t for everyone but this season take advantage of nature’s summertime gift of fresh fruit and veggies, and lay off the processed foods.

“Teamwork makes the dreamwork” with my friends, family and Black Girls Run teammates:
Kalia, Mikelle, Chenelle, Jade and Stacey
Main Image via Megan White

BONUS: Fitness Buddies Are The New Independent Women!

Yeah you can do it by yourself, but having a partner is proven for better results and staying on track with your goals, and in my case above, literally helping you cross that finish line. Plus they might actually need you more than you need them, be someone’s inspiration today!

What are your fitness goals for this season?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

A few weeks ago I attended the launch party for mybody’s newest product, NECK-CESSITY at Dr. Pearlman’s. This at home anti-aging treatment works to revitalize dark spots and signs of aging specifically on your neck and décolletage. It minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and creasing, while also smoothing uneven textures and firming skin. Launched in April 2012 it is now available through select dermatologists and skincare professionals featured on the website.

L to R: Founders Therese Clark, David Watson, Christine Watson

mybody was founded by makeup artist Therese Clark, Harrods executive Christine Watson, and skincare pioneer David Watson (co-founder of Philosophy, so you know it’s good stuff!). They have a full collection of products that can be mixed and match to create a customized regimen to treat acne, sensitive skin and anti-aging. These hidden treasures are dispensed by skincare professionals only, but you can find authorized retailers on their website www.lovemybody.com

While at the party I had my first chemical peel ever! The “myProbiotic Peel” is a trademarked non-invasive chemical peel that essentially tricks the body into thinking it’s injured so it will produce natural wound healing defense peptides. As someone whose face has fallen off from many products, I was certainly hesitant, but this peel was even gentle enough for my eczema and reaction-prone skin. It did not burn, sting or leave any redness or peeling that day, or the next, or even the day after next! In fact, its nickname is “The Lunchtime Peel” because you can literally get it done in 15 minutes then go back to work, no hiding and no intensive recovery time needed.

Along with the myProbiotic peel and NECK-CESSITY is the full collection of paraben-free cruelty free at home treatments. Below, my review is for the sensitive skin line, which I highly recommend for all seasons, skin types and ages.

Step 1: Clean Routine Revitalizing Foaming Cleanser

Champagne Rating: 5 out of 5 bottles!

First of all, I appreciate when a large collection has clearly labeled the steps in order (and time of day) and named the products for what they actually do! This creamy cleanser serves as a makeup remover, cleanser and toner all in one, even removing eye makeup and foundation.

Step 2: Beat the Rush – Anti-Redness Treatment

Champagne Rating: 4 out of 5 bottles

Rosacea and acne sufferers rejoice! A hydrocortisone free (reduces risk of irritation) serum that soothes inflammation from blemishes, sunburn, and heat rash. It also reduces redness and the appearance of rosacea triggered flushing and blotchiness. This will be my go-to during summer’s unforgiving heat blasts.

Step 3: Safety Blanket – Gentle Hydrating Lotion

Champagne Rating: 5 out of 5 bottles!

One pump of this cross between a light cream and rich lotion will actually wrap your face in a calming blanket. It was a great layer of protection without being too heavy, and did not irritate when directly applied to my eczema. I would recommend full application at night, and a lighter pump or spot treatments for daytime use.

Step 4: Protect & Serve – Tinted SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

Champagne Rating: 3 out of 5 bottles

This oil-free silicone based moisturizer is lightweight and non-reactive for all skin types. The tint only comes in one color, which left a gray shadow on my face. I was able to use it as a primer but had to layer on warm-toned powder to even my skin out.

All products are distributed by physicians and skincare specialists, you can can easily locate participating partners through their physician: www.lovemybody.com/physician

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia

*All images via mybody

*Ingredients not available at time of post