Shu Uemura Art Of Hair: Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil

My hair cannot thank me enough for introducing it to the new elixir recently launched by Shu Uemura's Art of Hair line (around since 2007). Coming onto the scene this past November and already flying off of shelves, this multi-purpose elixir, the Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil has been an absolute godsend as of late. The product is designed to nourish and "quench the thirst" of dry hair, while also working to eliminate frizz and protect against UV damage (wonderful to help your hair from getting fried by styling tools).

I have been applying 1.5-2 pumps of the oil mostly to the ends of my tresses where I need the hydration the most, while smoothing a bit over the top of my head (trying to avoid my roots). I have definitely noticed a difference in the way my hair has been looking, and more importantly, feeling. My hair has been touchably soft and healthier with the addition of the Essence Absolue oil and my frizz, while admittedly not completely eliminated (I think I would need a miracle for that!), has been significantly reduced. I have been using this especially when I want to keep my hair curly, and I am very happy with the results. I'm generally a no-fuss "throw my hair in a ponytail" type of girl, but I now find myself thinking twice about reaching for a clip. My curls have been looking so shiny and pretty! The product can either be used as a leave-in treatment (as I have been doing) or before shampooing.

Right now the Essence Absolue is sold out in salons internationally (it's that good!), but you can sign up at www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com to be informed when the product is available to order on the website.

Jennifer Aniston's stylist, Chris McMillian, swears by this oil to help him achieve the actress' signature sleek coif, and I think I have been converted as well. Next up...tackling a blow-out!

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

Dermalogica Free Gift With Purchase!

Just a heads up, lovelies! Order online at the Dermalogica website until December 31st, and receive a FREE Stress Relief Candle with your purchase ($28 value).

While an incentive to indulge in Dermalogica products really is not necessary, a stress-relieving candle sure sounds wonderful right about now! Anyone else feeling overwhelmed by the Holiday madness??

(seed) Grape Seed Enriched Body Lotion: An All-Natural Way To Wake Up Tired Skin

I have been plagued with dry, itchy, irritated skin, notably on my arms and legs, that gets especially bad with the sudden drops in temperature. I have tried a host of body lotions, but I have found that some just can't properly quench my thirsty skin, while others leave my skin feeling a little bit too greasy (this is not to say that I haven't found some that have worked for me!)

I am always up for trying new products (especially beauty and skincare that are all-natural), so of course I was excited to see how a lotion from (seed) Body Care would perform on my sensitive skin. (seed) is a brand with which I had previously had no experience. Well, ever since it appeared on my radar screen, I have been really intrigued by it. The line's range of skin and hair care - body lotions, soaps, and shampoo/conditioner - is 100% free of parabens, preservatives, and artificial colors, and are not tested on animals. The premise behind (seed)'s products is the notion that the grape seed contains powerful and potent antioxidant properties as well as vitamins and essential fatty acids. These features help to enrich the body and maintain its health. All of their products contain grape seed oil.

For the past few days I have been using the brand's Nourishing Body Lotion Invigorating Citrus Blend every night, post-shower. I have honestly been amazed at how my skin has been responding. The lotion is very light and seeps into the skin almost immediately. I found that I didn't have to apply much effort to work the cream into my skin. My skin has been feeling invigorated and refreshed. Along with grape seed oil, this lotion also contains sunflower seed oil, shea butter (to condition and soothe), as well as citrus oils and rosemary. The scent is very pleasant and clean. With continued use, I am confident that my dry skin will continue to improve!

(seed)'s line of products can be found online at www.seedpowerbodycare.com. The body lotion retails for about $20, and it, along with the rest of the product offerings can be purchased through Amazon.com.

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

YSL Beauty Friends And Family Sale!!

I have some fantastic news that just might make some of you very happy this Holiday season! Until December 20th, beauty orders made online at the YSL website will receive a discount of 20% off!! If you have been eyeing anything, this is definitely your opportunity to indulge (we all know, ladies, that YSL does not come cheap!) Enter FF2009 at checkout to redeem the offer. In addition, you'll also get FREE 3-day shipping.

Say it ain't so! Is there anything you have been drooling over?

FACEatelier Lip Glaze: There Is Nothing Sticky About This Situation

Impossibly smooth and moisturizing, FACEatelier's Lip Glaze is like luxury in a squeeze tube! I recently tested out my first product from this cruelty-free beauty brand, and you all know my initial foray had to begin with a lip product! I was very impressed with the texture of this Lip Glaze. It is completely devoid of any stickiness or tackiness and the formula is one of the most hydrating I have experienced. The consistency of the gloss is not too thick, and I have no "lip gunk" or lip flaking whatsoever as the gloss wore down. The gloss has no detectable scent.

The Lip Glaze is available in ten gorgeous and flattering shades - Ice, Arctic Gold, Flamingo, Peach, Dianthus, Primrose, Cameo, Plum, Shiraz, and Clear. The colors seem to span the gamut. There are pinks, berries, and nudes. I tested out Primrose, a beautiful hue that is a my "lips but better" color, that has a slight shimmer to it. My lips are naturally very rosy, and this color enhances this feature very nicely. I have especially been finding myself grabbing for this gloss on those days where I just find that I can't be bothered putting on a full face of makeup. It is the perfect shiny pick-me-up!

Primrose Lip Glaze on my lips

I love that the Lip Glaze applies effortlessly from a slant-tip tube. I find that this applicator helps to provide the perfect amount of the product to my lips. I was also pleasantly surprised by the amount of gloss that comes in the tube. For $22 you get a healthy .5 fl. oz. of gloss.

Like glass for your lips, this product is just wonderful! You can shop online at www.faceatelier.com as well as at a variety of retailers around this country and others.


NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

And The Winner Is.....

Shawnta!!!! Congrats, you have won the Lierac Paris Jet Set Beaute Travel Kit! Please email your mailing address to askthebeautychick@gmail.com. I want to thank everyone who participated in my first giveaway. Don't worry, it will not be the last!

LORAC Sale On HauteLook.com!!

So it kind of feels like I have been posting frequently on LORAC as of late, but they keep exploding onto the scene with some incredible deals on their amazing product line! I wanted to apprise you all of the exclusive sale that is going to be taking place on HauteLook.com. From Wednesday December 9, at 8 AM PST, until Thursday December 10, at 11 PM PST, check out HauteLook.com to receive great discounts of 50-75% off select LORAC products. Items that will be included in the sale are eyeshadow trios, lip polishes, lipsticks, and a variety of value sets.

Don't miss out on this event! Register at www.hautelook.com and shop away!

Holiday Gift Idea #8: The Shaker Infinity Scarf From The Limited

Functionality meets fashion with the Shaker Infinity Scarf from The Limited. I have been loving the trend lately, and with the weather really getting cold in the NYC area, The Limited's version is particularly appealing. Constructed of a chunky knit, this scarf is bound to keep you warm on the chilliest of days. The versatility of this scarf is a great, too. It is formed as a big circle, and can be worn a number of different ways (hence the "infinity" part of its name!) You can wrap it around for the double-layered look, you can wear it as a multi-length scarf, and you could even wear it pulled around your shoulders as a shrug. Whether they be beauty products or fashion pieces, you all should know by now that I love multi-purpose, multi-functional items!

I could see this being a great gift for a variety of women in your lives - mothers, sisters, and friends. Everyone wants to look cute while dressing for the cold temperatures!

The Limited Shaker Infinity Scarf comes in a variety of beautiful colors. You can find them at The Limited stores as well as online at www.thelimited.com. It is currently on sale for $23.70 as well (down from $39.50). What a great deal!

Styling Tip: Dress the scarf up and add a little character by attaching a brooch of your choice!

It's Time For A Giveaway!!

As promised, I am bringing you The Beauty Chick's first ever giveaway (and I have to say, I am very excited!!) The rules for the giveaway will be quite simple. Firstly, in order to be eligible to win the prize, you must be a registered follower of The Beauty Chick blog. Secondly, you must leave a comment on this post naming something that is on your holiday wish list this year. I will randomly select a winner from among those who have left comments.

The prize for this giveaway will be a fantastic travel skincare set from Lierac Paris, the Jet Set Beaute Kit (valued at $60). Inside a large white makeup bag adorned with the Lierac logo, you will receive five mini and full-size products: Repair Mains hand lotion, Concentre Mesolift (a toning radiance serum), Diopticalm Eye Cream (for fatigued or irritated eyes), Cleansing Water, and Coherence Jour (an age-defense firming day cream). All of the products are also part of the permanent Lierac line.

The giveaway will be closed on Friday, December 11th at 12:00 AM EST. Those who are under 18 must receive parental consent to send me their address to claim the prize should they win.

Be sure to check out www.lierac-usa.com to see the full range of products in the Lierac skincare line. Lierac products are also available in select CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade, and Longs Drugs locations. I also wanted to let you know that until December 6th, Lierac is holding their Friends and Family sale. Customers will receive a 30% discount on all orders made online at the website!

Good luck everyone!!

Holiday Gift Idea #7: LORAC 3's A Crowd Makeup Collection

Ever find yourself standing in front of a makeup counter unable to decide which colors to purchase? Well, LORAC has made our lives a little bit simpler with their new VIP set, 3's A Crowd, exclusive to the LORAC website. The collection features three shades each of lipstick, lip polish, and loose pigments. The colors are all beautiful and wearable. The metallic pigments and the gorgeous red lipstick particularly intrigue me. They are the perfect choices to dress up your look for a holiday bash!

The Shades:

Lipsticks:

Imagine (matte)
Explore (matte)
Tango (cream)


Lip Polishes:

Bliss
Delicious
Sizzle


Glam Rock Metallic Loose Pigment Eyeshadows:

Metallic Pearl
Metallic Gold
Metallic Copper

Not only has LORAC taken some of the guess work out of the selection process, but they're also offering this set for a super affordable $19.50!! That is a serious deal!

The only bad part is that this set will only be available for a limited time at www.loraccosmetics.com, while supplies last, so snatch this set up while you can!

Get Your Shoe On At The Nine West Friends And Family Event!

Have you been waiting to pick up a new pair of boots or a cute pair of heels to wear to this year's holiday parties? Now's your opportunity! From December 3-December 7, shop at Nine West locations or online at http://www.ninewest.com/ and receive 30% off of your entire purchase. No code is necessary to redeem the offer online. The discount will be computed automatically.

Bath And Body Works Intoxicates With Twilight Woods

I'm going to preface my short anecdote by saying that I'm generally one of those girls who walks by the salesperson urging you to try the latest and greatest fragrance, knowing very well that she (or he) is going to try to push the product on you (and I know I don't generally have self-control!) However, one day a few weeks ago, I walked into my local Bath and Body Works store and for once stopped to test out the new scent that the saleswoman was sampling. I smiled and nodded along in agreement with everything she was telling me about the new addition to their Signature Collection, and told her I would walk around and browse and think it over. I actually found myself pleasantly surprised! I traipsed around the store for a good ten minutes sniffing the card upon which the fragrance had been sprayed. Though I left the store empty handed, I caught myself inhaling the sweet-smelling fumes all the way to my next destination. I was smitten!!

A new addition to the Bath and Body Works line, the Twilight Woods collection boasts a variety of products for the skin and bath - an eau de toilette, a hand lotion, a body butter, and a shower gel, to name a few. The scent is so light and pretty, refreshing, feminine, and romantic. It is beautiful and comforting, and plays harmoniously with the senses, enveloping you in its midst. The fragrance is definitely one that I can see being very popular with a range of customers. While it is not a novel scent per se, it does have a very "hypnotic" quality to it. You won't be able to turn away! The notes include juicy berry, soft mimosa, apricot nectar, and warm woods. I particularly love the mix of the fruity (my favorite!) with the "heavier" woody tones. The result is pure bliss for the olfactory system!

Needless to say, I headed back to the store about a week later and picked up the Twilight Woods Fragrance Mist ($12) for myself! I guess I couldn't resist for too long (and no, the word "twilight" in the scent's moniker played zero role in my decision to buy it!)

I highly recommend checking out the Twilight Woods selections in your local Bath and Body Works locale or online at www.bathandbodyworks.com. Simply intoxicating!

They Say It's Your Birthday! Happy Birthday To You! The Beauty Chick Celebrates Its Six Month Milestone!!

I am so excited to share with you all that today marks six months that I have been blogging on The Beauty Chick. It has been an amazing journey thus far, and I only hope that things continue on this path. I have enjoyed sharing with you my thoughts on different products and news of the the latest beauty sales. Interacting with you has been most rewarding (keep commenting!)

In celebration of reaching this milestone (a big accomplishment in the world of beauty blogging), I am going to be holding my first giveaway. Details of that will follow shortly, but I am going to require that you are an official "follower" of The Beauty Chick in order to be eligible to win.

I want to write about things that interest you, so I want to urge you to comment and let me know what you would like to see here in the future. I am more than open to hearing your suggestions!! If there are certain products for which you would be interested in seeing a review, please do not hesitate to make me aware of them!

I am beyond appreciative to those of you who take the time to read my beauty musings and hope that you will all continue to stop by!

xoxo
The Beauty Chick