photo courtesy of aol.com

The Shammy Cloth is my MUST HAVE facial accessory...I absolutely love this product!  When I first bought it I was sooooo confused on how it was used.  I heard about it from a subbie on youtube and she never gave instructions on how to use it, only that she loved it!  So, when I went to purchase it (I bought it at an AVEDA salon) the sales associate had no clue how to use it either (tsk tsk) AND it didn't come with instructions.  Anyhoo, when I took it out the plastic it felt like an egg carton, but once I wet it, it felt like a wet suit.  So you still may be wondering what the hay hay is it for.  Well, I use it to remove my cleanser, exfoliant, and masque.  What I love about it is that it is not as abrasive as a washcloth, yet more effective at removing product residue than plain water.  After use, just hang to dry and YES it dries like an egg carton after each use! It still kinda weirds me out, but hey what's important is IT WORKS!

So, are you (like many) an Apricot Scrub junkie?  Well, anyone I've consulted with knows my take on the infamous St. Ive's Apricot Scrub.....two thumbs down!  No recommendations from me....I don't care how inexpensive it is.  I know, I know, some people swear by this product and that's fine, but before you tell me about myself (or even trash it), hear me out.

I've studied the anatomy and physiology of the skin and know how fragile this delicate organ is (yes the skin is an organ...the largest one at that)!  I digress, while I am proud of you who take the time to exfoliate, I want to make you aware of how the gritty composition of this scrub could induce more problems as oppose to preventing them.  The secret to purchasing an exfoliant, in scrub form, is to make sure that the texture is not abrasive.  Many people are under the impression that the coarser the scrub the deeper or better the exfoliation.  The problem is that while you may be removing dead skin cells, you may also be creating micro tears on the skin, which makes you more susceptible to breakout.  You have now left the skin open to free radicals, bacteria, or anything else that can induce or agitate the bacteria that causes acne.

So when you begin shopping for your exfoliant, make sure it has a fine almost undetectable consistency to touch.  Like myself, you could opt for a masque like exfoliant which sits on the face for a period of time and then removed.  Ready to start shopping for a new product or will you remain loyal to old faithful?

Ok, so colored liner may have made it's debut last year, but this S/S it is taking the world by storm.  Many celebrities, including myself (yes I'm a celebrity in my head) have indulged in this pretty, yet daring look.  While it may be a little bold for some it is the necessary change needed to spice up our look.  I mean come on, black will always be a staple in all of our kits, but I challenge you to open your mind to change and a little fun.

I posted last week about nude/neutral make-up being the "it look" for this season and while it is still so, this is the perfect pick me upper for that clean canvas.  The picture shown above of one of my besties (yes in my head again, don't judge me...lol) is the perfect example of this look.  Best of all, you can rock this ANYTIME of the day, for any occasion, and for an exciting night out on the town.  Blues, purples, greens, and even shades of pinks will be gracing the faces of many fashionistas.  Me personally, I love purples and blues on women of color, but I say rock whatever fits your fancy!

photo courtesy of Sephora.com

At first glance, I was a bit befuddled as to what hidden treasure was nestled in this cute little package.  Before I popped the cap and squeezed the small tube the packaging alone sold me.  I guess it is safe to say that this is marketing 101 at its finest.  Needless to say, I found Hourglass Cosmetics' Prodigy Hydrating Lipgloss to be absolutely phenomenal.  This water resistant, moisturizing lip gloss is the perfect accessory to any fresh face and comes in a wide variety of shades.  Prodigy's non-sticky formula is infused with vitamin E which makes it extremely hydrating.  Best of all, it can EASILY hide in your clutch or purse.  I am a little disappointed in its price point ($26), but who said beauty was cheap? What do you think? Isn't it cute!?!?

So, many of you may not know (or maybe you do) that I am currently in the process of developing my own skin care line and I am UBER excited.  I just received my first set of prototypes and have sent them out for testing and I have to admit I have a bit of anxiety.  I mean it's not that I don't believe in my product, it's more like people sometimes have unrealistic expectations.  My products are for maintenance not necessarily corrective purposes....to an extent.

As an esthetician, I believe that frequenting a salon or spa for facials is important.  Just as you would see your hairstylist 1-2 times a month to fine tune, you should see an esthetician at least once a month to do the same.  During this time you get a better understanding of your skin's condition(s), products, ingredients, or treatments that are beneficial to your skin.  As with the first time you meet your stylist you have a consultation to discuss concerns, expectations, and questions you would do the same thing with your skin care therapist.  When you leave the hair salon, your stylist may recommend products to "maintain" or duplicate your look.  I want herSKINe to be the recommended line to "maintain" or duplicate the work of your esthetician.

My hopes for this line is to bring about awareness of skin health.  While I hope that it reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation (dark spots), evens out the skin's tone, and creates the perfect moisture balance, I want my clients to be educated about their skin.  As I stated before, these are only my first set of protos so improvements may need to be made, but I am looking forward to this journey of entrepreneurship!  Are you willing to follow me?

Being the sweet, carmel complected sister that I am, I have never been a fan of tanning.


1. I am already "tan"
2. I never get that beautifully, bronzed appearance
3. I am not a fan of the heat.


My girlfriends always laugh when I say I look dirty and muddy after getting torched by the sun.  I know, it sounds quite gross, but that's what it looks like to me.  Anyhoo, enough about me and my woes.  I found a God sent product that allows me to achieve that PERFECT summer complexion.  Noted make-up artist Scott Barnes, donned the guru of bronzed skin, is responsible for J. Lo's impeccably, flawless, sun-kissed glow.  Finished with sleek packaging and easy to use tube for flawless application, Body Bling is a "radiant, tinted body moisturizer with color that leaves the skin with a supple and even tone".  

To my sisters who love to soak up the sun's rays, this is a safer, healthier alternative for preserving healthy, beautiful skin.  For those of you that frequent the tanning salon, here is the perfect alternative not only for health reasons but the for your pockets as well.  So, I dare you to make your Body Bling!

I remember in high school when airbrushed, blinged out, multi-colored designed nails were the sign of (what some thought) a true DIVA.  Soon there after, the west coast storm of posh french manicures and OPI nudes/neutrals shut the lights off on the world of color.  It has taken some time to recover, but with the help of the pop Baijan princess Rihanna, color reemerged onto the nail scene about 2.5 years ago.  Ever since, even the mature fashionistas have been experimenting with vibrant hues which bring about a sense of excitement and youth.  Don't get it twisted, neutrals and nudes have firmly planted their seeds in the soil of nail fashion.  Remember, practical neutrals provide a safety net for cautious consumers that worry about matching their fashions to their nails or following corporate protocol that don't allow for such creativity.


If you are anything like yours truly, keeping up with your manis and pedis is a must for the sandal slinging months.  Now that spring is in full bloom and summer is scorching its way in, it is imperative that I keep the gang in tuned with the S/S '10 nail trends.  So, here's the skinny....Matte finishes, moon manicures, metallics, and nudes make up the exciting nail scene among the many fabulous designs! 

Now don't get your panties all in a ruffle, designers and fashionistas have not gone mad, clothes are still in this season.  Remember that is how they keep us spending (and broke), however the world of make-up has taken on a cleaner, more natural look for the warmer months.

Spring/Summer has always been thought of as the time of year when color reemerges after being in hibernation during the cooler seasons.  However,  one of the biggest make-up trends transcending this upcoming summer is the appearance of a nude, barely there face.  While some may be thinking "this is easy" (because they don't wear much make-up), the "look" is that of a well concealed, set, natural appearance.  All this really means is that you have an even canvas achieved by the use of foundation, concealer, or powder. Additionally, the eyes are done up with "nude" pigments, mascara for mile high, voluminous lashes, lips are perfected with flesh toned balms, and cheeks highlighted with a light, warm blush if used at all.

I can definitely get down with this look.  Sometimes we get so caught up in getting "done up" that we forget that make-up can be used simply to enhance.  If you are guilty of startling yourself after removing your make-up (because even YOU forget what you really look like) you may not be willing to jump on this bandwagon, but I encourage you to try something new.  You may be surprised at the compliments you receive or attention you attract.  FOOD FOR THOUGHT!

To many of us the coconut is a tropical fruit that is home to refreshing coconut water, creamy coconut milk, and appetizing coconut jelly.  While I am not a fan of consuming coconut in any form, unless the taste is undetected, I have a deep appreciation for its many benefits.  Coconut oil should be kept under EVERYONE's bathroom sink as it does wonders for the skin and hair and can come in useful at any moment.  


Pure virgin coconut oil is the best and most effective natural skin moisturizer, antiseptic and anti-oxidant.  While it is excellent as a treatment for dry skin it is also a great solution for preventing flaking and dehydration.  Now for those of us who don't suffer from dry skin, body or face, we can still benefit from this natural wonder.  While I use it as a night time moisturizer for my face, I also use it as a lotion because it gives my skin a nice healthy glow without leaving a greasy film.  Coconut oil's antiseptic fatty acids helps to prevent and treat fungal and bacterial infections such as psoriasis and eczema when it is consumed and to some extent, when it is applied directly to the skin.  Additionally, as we age the skin loses its natural ability to produce moisture so coconut oil helps to delay and prevent the signs of premature aging due to its anti-oxidant properties. 

It is also important to know that coconut oil has the same effects on the hair as it does with the skin.  The women of the Middle East are known for their vast consumption of coconut oil as a hair moisturizer and conditioner.  While it softens the hair and conditions the scalp, it promotes healthy hair growth and provides a shiny finish. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing dry, brittle, and damaged hair.  As with the skin, there is no greasy film left behind when used on the hair.

Now I don't know about you, but this is a MUST have.  So I advise all women, no matter your skin shade or hair texture not to sleep on coconut oil.  You will be surprised at the results after consistent use.  Oh and how could I forget about the delightful scent exuded from this beautiful fruit? 

Have you ever walked through the Health & Beauty aisles and spotted that big brush shown to the right and wondered what in the world is that for?  Crazy enough, I didn't know what it was for, but bought it as a way to scrub my back during showering.  During body treatment week in school, I was introduced to this 'apparatus' and soon learned of all the wonderful benefits that can be acquired through its use.

First, a question for thought.  Did you know that the skin is the one of the most important organs that is responsible in the elimination of daily toxins, yet the last to receive nutrients and first to show deficiencies?  Well, dry body brushing is a technique that detoxifies the skin and stimulates all the other organs of the body by providing gentle internal massaging.

9 Benefits to Dry Body Brushing are:

1. Tightens skin
2. Helps with digestion
3. Removes Cellulite
4. Stimulates Cell Renewal
5. Lightly Exfoliates
6. Strengthens Immune System
7. Stimulates Circulation
8. Stimulates Lymph Flow
9. Cleans Lymphatic System

While there is a special technique to body brushing, this may be something that you or someone close to you could benefit from.  If you know anyone who suffers from diabetes, it could be used to stimulate circulation.  Also, since our lymphatic system doesn't have it's own pump, whereas the circulatory system has the heart, maybe you could use it to release toxins from illness.  Maybe you simply want to reduce the appearance of cellulite on the back of the thighs and butt.  Whatever the reason, while it presents some of the same benefits as massaging, it is not an alternative just a cheaper supplement.

On your quest for healthy, glowing skin (which can be expensive), you may still fall prey to the misleading labeling allowed by the FDA.  Technically, the labels are truthful, but only to those who understand how they are regulated.  For example, if a product states that it contains shea butter, but it only makes up 1% of the product, using it to market the product is misleading because it isn't the key working ingredient in the product.

With all that said, it is important to know how to read labels and know what to avoid when buying skin care products.  Something to keep in mind is that the first 5 ingredients on the label make up majority of the product.  Be mindful that if you can't pronounce them or don't know what they are, it doesn't mean that they are bad.  On the other hand, listed below are some ingredients to avoid.  While a few are natural or are derivatives of natural elements, they can have adverse effects on the face.  These products are said to be comedogenic, which means it tends to produce clogged pores that prohibits the excretion of oils and dead skin cells from the follicle (pore).  Additionally, it can aggravate those with acne prone skin.

1. Mineral Oil
2. Lanolin
3. Isopropyl Myristate
4. Formaldehyde
5. SD Alcohol
6. Artificial Color
7. Artificial Fragrance

Now don't be hasty and throw away everything in your bathroom (you may be left with nothing) please note that this pertains to the face.  While you should avoid these ingredients all together, the effects to the rest of the body are minute.  It may take some time and research to find products with out these ingredients, but note, the compromise may be price.  FOOD FOR THOUGHT!

No need to clean your glasses or rub your eyes, you read it correctly, Advanced Home Actives has introduced an at home medical-grade peel.  The Brazilian Peel is slated to provide similar results to that of professional clinical peels in as little as four weeks.  Glycolic acid and Acai are the two active ingredients found in this at home modern miracle.  Anyone who knows me knows that I believe exfoliation is THE MOST ESSENTIAL step to having healthy, beautiful, and well toned skin.  Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface either mechanically or chemically. (i.e. scrubs, microdermabrasion)  I tend to be leery of over the counter products that profess such promising results, but I may have to indulge.  After all, I could save tons of money?!?!  Click here for more information

As the temperature continues to rise, it is exceedingly important that we protect ourselves from the sun and it's harsh effects.  Like most of us know, sun protection is vital to maintaining healthy, beautiful skin and most (if not all) skin care and make-up lines have integrated SPF into their products.  By now, it has been beaten into our heads that indecent sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, skin cancer, pre-mature aging, sagging....the list goes on and on.  However, most of us don't understand how to properly use it.

If you are only exposed to the sun incidentally, a light lotion or moisturizer will suffice.  However, if you work in the sun, sun bathe, or enjoy the outdoors, full spectrum protection is imperative.  Full spectrum refers to a sunscreen that protects from UVA AND UVB rays.  UVA rays are short and cause tanning, while UVB rays are longer and cause sunburns.  You may be thinking, "I want to tan why do I need protection"?  Well, you will tan with sunscreen however you open the door to potential skin damage if you do not use protection.

QUESTION OF THE DAY: Do you know what the numbers after the term SPF stand for or refer to?  This number helps to determine the amount of protection by MINUTES that you are exposed.  Multiply your SPF by 10 to find out how many minutes you can stay out in the sun with out burning.  For example, an SPF of 30 should protect for appr. 300 minutes (5 hours).  However, keep in mind you may sweat or take a dip in the water, so this reduces the coverage (even if you get sport or water-resistance).  It is important to reapply protection if you are exposed for an extensive time.

One more thing, YES people of color can and will experience the negative effects of sun exposure if we do not protect ourselves.  While our "extra dose" of melanin is our special protection against the sun, the damaging effects is the same and hyperpigmentation worsens.

Dermalogica's Soothing Protection Toner or (as I like to refer to it as) SUMMER RAIN, has become a staple in my medicine cabinet.  I was introduced to the Dermalogica line while attending Paul Mitchell the School for Skin Therapy.  As stated on Dermalogica's website, "active botanicals are formulated to calm irritation and reduce redness for "environmentally sensitized" skin."  So you may be wondering why exactly would I need this....I am a brown-skinned sista, I don't get redness nor do I burn!  Well if you live in a warmer region like myself, you may be exposed daily to what almost feels like inhumane conditions or you could simply love to bask in the sun.  I dub this as SUMMER RAIN because it refreshes, cools, and calms down the negative effects felt by the sun.  However if you do burn, it definitely reduces irritation and discomfort by 41% within 24 hours! The best part is you can use it from head to toe!  Did I forget to mention that if you suffer from cystic acne it helps soothe the soreness as well!  Best part is EVERYONE can use it, even the kiddies! It's definitely something to check out if you are planning a vacay this summer or plan on spending some time out doors!  


Dermalogica can be found at select salon and spas as well as ULTA cosmetic store!

I have recently fallen in love AGAIN and I am ready to tell the world! A few years back, Iman Cosmetics had a line called "I" that was marketed for a younger audience and was sold exclusively to Sephora. It was the ONLY line that carried a powder and foundation that matched my skin tone to perfection, but like all things good, our relationship succumbed due to its discontinuation. I was forced to begin my search again to find that ONE product that would make me believe again, but nothing measured up. LIke some, I was under the impression that IMAN by IMAN Cosmetics was only for a "mature" audience (if you wish) and didn't appeal to "our" market. Little did I know that if I only gave it a chance my yearning for my perfect match would have come sooner. Fast forwarding about 6 years, I took the advice from one of my mentors, Mr. Sam Fine, the make-up gawd to many women of color and I have finally settled down with the love of my life. IMAN Cosmetics has reinvented itself and has gone above and beyond for the women of color.......so tell me, what do you think? Have you ever tried any of her products?