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Women’s Health Magazine Hosts 5th Annual Beauty Awards

Women’s Health Magazine’s June issue, which is now available on newsstands, features the winners of their 5th annual beauty awards. Combining readers, experts, and editor’s picks, the recipients span 28 categories across hair, makeup and skincare. For any of you that follow me on twitter (@PCbeauty), I gave you a sneak peak into the winners a few weeks ago at a special event Women’s Health hosted in celebration. The winners are also available on their website.

Regardless of my agreement on the products selected, it’s a really great opportunity to chat with their editors and my fellow bloggers about which products are our favorites and why. I love the ‘I would have chosen…’ or the ‘that is a great product but have you tried…’ and especially the ‘you liked the…? It did not work at all for me’ conversations. It really imprints the magic of beauty products and how impossible it is to pick a product that’s perfect for everyone. The best part about these awards is sparking that conversation and curiosity. As consumers, it inspires us to try something different or introduces us to a product we may have otherwise never have thought to purchase.

On a tactical level, I liked a lot of the Reader’s Picks. Many we’re no surprise –NARS Orgasm blush (also an Experts’ Pick), CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara (it’s always between this mascara, Maybelline Great Lash, Dior Show, and Lancome Definicils)… Others have been on my list due to their outstanding reputation (I’m looking at you Best Lipstick winner Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey) and

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Curel Launches Itch Defense Lotion for Dry, Itchy Skin

Eczema-prone individuals and itchy skin victims take note! Curel wants to help you fight the battle with the launch of their newly reformulated Itch Defense Lotion for Dry, Itchy Skin ($7.99/13 fl oz).

I met with members of the Curel team, as well as dermatologist Dr. Sapna Westley, and Julie Block, a representative from the National Eczema Association to learn more about the formula; but before I can even get into the product, I just need to take a moment to say how effected I was by their presentation. I don’t have eczema, but I remember being a kid and having dry, itchy skin on the inside of my thighs. It was so agonizing and would keep me up at night so I can sympathize. I was fortunate enough to grow out of it, but so many are not as lucky. I watch this video on some real-life patients talking about how this condition has impacted their life and I kept thinking about what it would be like to be at a job interview or just suddenly out in public and feeling like your skin was on fire. What these kids (and adults) and their families go through is so much. My heart completely sank.

However, on a more optimistic note, I was delighted to learn about the National Eczema Association (NEA). They are an incredible resource for anyone with Eczema and their families and are

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James Vincent Presents The Makeup Show 2011 in NYC

If you’re in the beauty world or aspire to be a makeup artist you by now you should know about The Makeup Show. And if you don’t, visit their website right now! Now in their 6th year, The Makeup Show is a two-day exhibition that takes place in NY, LA, Chicago and Europe, and exposes guests to some of the top artists, brands, workshops, seminars and is the best go-to resource for how to get started in this industry. It’s also one of the only times top brands, including NARS Cosmetics, MAKE UP FOR EVER, YSL, Stila… will offer their products at a discount (it’s a good time to stock up).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbqgPCE9FCU

Last night, James Vincent, the Director of Education and Artist Relations for The Makeup Show hosted a blogger preview party, and gave us bloggers some fun goodies to try. He also introduced The Makeup Show and it’s importance to makeup artists everywhere (watch the video above). The only item in the gift bag I’ve tried thus far is MAKE UP FOR EVER’s Aqua Liner, which I’m currently having a love affair with. I received a few samples from them last week and all I can say is if you’re  a liquid liner fan this is a must-try! It’s so easy to use and waterproof. This liner got me through all the beaches and pools in Acapulco. And now that I’m back in NY, and it’s raining buckets, but my eyeliner is staying put!

Following the blogger preview party, The Makeup Show hosted a makeup art exhibition, “New York Groove, A Gallery of Makeup Art”. MAKE UP FOR EVER’s Creative & Artistic Director Dany Sanz took the cake in the performance and live art she developed. Sanz created three different looks (in human marionette form); a Ballerina, a Rockette and a Chorus Line dancer. Now much more NY can you get? Check out the performance!

The Make Up Show NYC – May 15 – May 16th at the Metropolitan Pavilion – 125 West 18th Street

For more information visit themakeupshow.com

Mom’s Beauty Favorites

Family picture

Being an incredibly stubborn child the saying, ‘Mom knows best’ was something I would rarely admit to (even when she was right), with the exception of when it came to beauty products. She used brown liners on her lips back when the only options were eye pencils, traveled to the middle-eastern markets for those black eye pencils before Carrie made us want to try them in Sex and the City 2, and she has a keen ability to feel a formula and within seconds tell if it’s worth trying. Frankly, when it comes to my love for this industry, she’s where I get it from. So in honor of Mother’s Day (sure I’m a little late –but then again I’m writing from Mexico where Mother’s Day isn’t until tomorrow, so you can cut me some slack), here are Mom’s favorites and why!

  • Dr Hauschka Creme de Jour (daily moisturizing lotion) and Rose Day Cream – “I’ve been using these products for years and no matter what new products I try I always go back. It quickly absorbs into my skin and leaves it hydrated all day. The smell is clean and Divine. It’s been my absolute favorite for a long, long time.”
  • Living Proof Full Shampoo and Full Conditioner – “I have very thin hair so this combo helps give me a little lift without stripping my hair and makes a great base for my styling products. Plus it has a great lather and distributes nicely. I recommend it for  curly hair too! My daughter used it in a recent visit and it tightened up her curls and gave them great lift and volume without any frizz”
  • Hashmi Kajal Black Khol Eye Pencil – “Yes, the kind you buy in the Indian or middle eastern markets.  As much as I buy other name brands, I always go back to this one. It’s great for high pigment on the inside of your eyelids along your lashes.”
  • MAC Cosmetics Eye Shadow in shade Cork – “I use this shade of brown because it has some yellow in it just like my eyes.  This brings out the yellow.”
  • Maybelline FIT ME Foundation in 220 –  “It use to be Shiesado (before it became consistency became too thick), Armani before the texture changed, and now it’s Mabelline – not too thin, not too thick, just the right coverage
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Sleep No More

A few weeks ago while I was at Katie Holmes’ John Frieda event, I ran into a group of friends I hadn’t seen in a while. Amidst our departure one of them mumbled something about how we should go to this play, Sleep No More, where you wear a mask and it’s totally ‘Eye’s Wide Shut’ like. I didn’t really know what that meant at the time –was I going to watch a play and be seduced while wearing a mask? Especially since it was at a hotel I had never heard of –the McKittrick. I was intrigued.

The emails circulated, tickets we’re bought and next thing I know I’m entering a set of large unmarked black doors and being asked to check everything. When in Rome… I gave them my purse, coat, cell phone –it felt kind of liberating. I then walked to the 2nd floor bar and joined my friends. And that’s where the journey began. You walk through this maze of darkness feeling your way through and come out in something set out of the 1940s. Live entertainment with tables and a bar. The hosts all dress to a tee as if we’re all at a masquerade ball –only at this point we weren’t required to wear masks. The ticket alone was worth hanging out at the bar all night.

You’re given a card as your ticket (I had a jack), which designates your group. And call different cards up to enter the hotel. Once yours is called you follow the seductress into a small room where

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Kiehl’s Partners with Michael C. Hall and Chloë Sevigny

It seems like skincare brand, Kiehl’s Since 1851 is always up to some cool, philanthropic initiative –probably because they generally are! This year in celebration of their 160th anniversary (go Kiehl’s!), they are collaborating with Michael C. Hall and Chloë Sevigny to help clean up both our waterways and our skin!

In their latest charitable and environmental endeavor, Michael C. Hall and Chloë Sevigny have designed a special limited edition label for one of my favorite Kiehl’s products, their Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque ($23). Kiehl’s will be donating 100% of the net proceeds (up to $100k) of this Limited Edition Label Art Series to the Waterkeeper Alliance, a grassroots advocacy organization that works to protect and preserve our waterways.

I am addicted to this mask—err masque! It’s formulated with fairly traded Amazonian White Clay that helps detoxify skin and extract all of the dirt and oils out of pores and helps minimize their appearance. I use it after the shower on days I have big events and it evens out my complexion and makes my skin glow. My makeup even goes on better after using it.

For more information visit Kiehls.com

Lara’s Latest Skincare Obsessions

Woowzer! There are some great new skincare products on the market. I’m constantly amazed by all of the new technology and natural resources brands are discovering (and testing!) to keep our skin looking vibrant and youthful. Here’s what I’m currently obsessing over!

1. KORRES Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Antiwrinkle Eye Cream – $42

An instant-lift eye cream that is clinically proven to fights wrinkles, increase elasticity, and reduce puffiness and dark circles. I feel much more awake after application and love the texture and feel –it soaks right into my skin! Plus it’s rich in antioxidants and free of parabens and sulfates.

2. Kiehl’s Rosa Arctica Youth Regenerating Cream – $60

This hydrating cream is formulated with a rare “Resurrection Flower” which re-awakens cellular activity and reduces lines and wrinkles while improving firmness. At first I didn’t understand what all the hype was all about, the unusual texture (it’s a little waxy) through me off. Then I got a tip to rub the product in between my finger prior to patting it only skin and now I’m loving the absorption and results.

3. La Mer The Regenerating Serum – $250

This anti-aging, lightweight elixir harnesses skins natural production of collagen, elastin and reduces the appearance of pores, lines and wrinkles. It smells divine, quickly absorbs onto skin and is not the least bit tacky. My skin

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Jo Malone Collector’s Edition David Hicks Candles

David Hicks for Jo Malone Decorated Home Candles

How AMAZING are these candles? I’m already a Jo Malone fiend (especially for her candles); but now I’m positively obsessing over their partnership with David Hicks to create the Decorated Home Candles collection.

Known for his eclectic mix of old and new, David Hicks was one of the most influential British designers of the late twentieth century. His son, Ashley Hicks (also a designer), explored his father’s archive to reinterpret three classic geo-patterns, each reflecting a modern scent of Jo Malone.

The three scents chosen for the Decorated Home Candles are some of my favorites from the Jo Malone collection; Lime Basil & Mandarin, Pomegranate Noir, and Red Roses. The patterns paired for each candle are reminiscent of David Hicks work through his son’s eyes.

“The lively Riviera pattern, matched with Lime Basil & Mandarin, transports me to summers spent in the Mediterranean, while the shade for Hicksonian, pared with Red Roses, is

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Inside Angelo David Salon

Angelo David, Lara Eurdolian (post-styled hair!)

Celebrity hairstylist Angelo David, needs very little introduction. Notorious for his Couture Hair extensions and additions, the man can transform any type of hair –short, damaged, thinning, and create length and volume. Extensions, fillers, wigs…his salon, does it all using 100% human hair perfectly matched with your hair type, color, texture and wave pattern.

As someone with long, full hair (don’t hate me), I haven’t explored extensions, although they fascinate me. They have been such an ongoing trend, and their ability to serve as a decoy to transform a head of hair (when done properly) is amazing. While Angelo David salon does specialize in hair extensions, they also offers a full menu of hair styling, beauty and nail services.

Inside Angelo David Salon

There’s something to be said about a salon that from the street level has no storefront or signage, yet still manages to be busy. The environment was very warm and friendly and from the moment I stepped off the elevator it felt like I was walking into a family establishment. While sitting in the waiting room, Angelo David, came out and asked if I wanted a tour (of course I did). I perused

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Susan G. Komen Launches First Fragrance ‘Promise Me’

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation has partnered with TPR Holding to create their first signature fragrance ‘Promise Me’, to honor those who have been touched by breast cancer. While we’ve seen many beauty products donate proceeds to the Susan G. Komen fund, this is the first and only proprietary fragrance for the cause.

When I first heard about the fragrance launch, I was perplexed by what it would smell like. How do you bottle bravery or strength? Let alone a tribute to all that have been touched by breast cancer? That curiosity turned to excitement when I found out one of my favorite perfumers, Jean Claude Delville of Drom fragrances developed it.  When speaking with him I got the sense that he was completely immersed in the identity of the fragrance and how that would translate into the fragrance notes. Promise Me contains top notes of mandarin, bergamout. Blood orange,

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