Q&A w/the Queen of Beauty: Jean Godfrey-June of Lucky Magazine

Courtesy of Jean Godfrey-June
 
Jean Godfrey-June has come a long way since her days at Elle Magazine – the Queen of Beauty carved out a successful, improbable career in the world of glamour as the world-famous beauty editor of Lucky Magazine.  I recently read her acclaimed novel: Free Gift with Purchase and loved it!  I’ve been a beauty junkie and a fan of Godfrey-June since I can remember.  My sister Wendy and I spent our adolescence pouring over her beauty reviews and articles at Elle and are avid readers of Lucky, with the Beauty Closet being our favorite part of the magazine.  I was thrilled when Jean agreed to an interview, she graciously made time to answer a few beauty questions, I couldn’t help get a little personal and as usual I was taking notes.

 
Anita: I am so thrilled to have this opportunity, Thank you!

 
Jean: You are very welcome, it’s my pleasure!

 
Anita: I know you’re very busy, I’m going to try to move these questions right along.  I know you have various beauty products, but which beauty products did you use this morning?

 
Jean: Let’s see…(1) Laura Mercier Concealer(2) Bobbi Brown Extra SPF Tinted Moisturizing Balm(3)Kiehl’s Mascara– its paraben Free(4)Lancome Flash Bronzer, tinted self-tanner leg gel, I know it’s for your legs but I use it on my face, I love that stuff!

 
Anita: What’s the hardest part about being a beauty editor?

 
Jean: I attend so many events but afterwards I still have to go back and finish my work.  I also hear the same information over and over, the epidermis is the first layer of skin etc….

 
Anita: What piece of beauty product would you most love to receive?

 
Jean: If I had a 100 of them I would want 101 – Brown Sugar Body Polish by Fresh. I love it! I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t, it’s a gift anyone would love!

 
Anita: What is your signature look/style?

 
Jean: The No Makeup – Makeup Look.  People always ask me why I’m not wearing makeup, (Laughs) you can look polished without wearing a lot of makeup.  I spend  a lot of time to look the way I do.  Would you rather have people tell you – Your makeup looks pretty or you look pretty? I also like Bed-head; I didn’t comb my hair today!

 
Anita: (Laughing) Still?

 
Jean: (Laughs) Ok, well I comb it once after the shower.

 
Anita: How do you decide which beauty products make it into Lucky?

 
Jean: It’s very much like shopping.  I choose products that are really new, different, creative, and innovative.  The packaging and presentation are important.  I also love it if the promise of the product is intriguing.  We also interview a lot of people; we want a lot of feedback – tried&true.  Also if the smell is amazing or if the color is really pretty.

 
Anita: What is your favorite resturant in New York?

 
Jean: It’s a new and glamorous restaurant, which happens to be downstairs next to the office.  The Lambs Club – I love their iced tea! The ice cubes are made out of ice tea, the restaurant is glamorous and very New York.

 
Anita: What three words best describe you?

 
Jean: 1) Happy – I’m always content 2) Enthusiastic – I’m just generally..Pro 3) Silly –  I think that you have to go through life with a sense of humor; it makes life bearable and interesting.

 
Anita: Guilty Pleasures?

 
Jean: I love True Blood! I love Food – I’m a big eater!

 
Anita: Favorite shade of Red Lipstick? Or are you still searching for one?

 
Jean: YSL’s Gloss Volupte in Frozen Cherry – the color is so sheer and pretty it’s practically invisible.

 
Anita: What’s something most people don’t know about you?

 
Jean: I love the Howard Stern show!

 
Anita: I do too! Howard Stern is a big fan of the Vampire Diaries! ( I love the Vampire Diaries)

 
Jean: Yes, he is ( Laughing)

 
Anita: Which three lip balms would we find at the bottom of your handbag today?

 
Jean: I have 4 – 1) Quince lip butter glaze by Korres I love the new collection, it’s very colorful and pretty. 2) The New Coco Chanel Shine (It’s not out yet) 3) Perfek’s Organic Vanilla 4) YSL’s Gloss Volupte in Frozen Cherry

 
Anita: What are your favorite fashion magazines?

 
Jean: I am a fiend for magazines.  I love them! I read all of them.  Especially World of Interiors, I also love Vogue.

 
Anita: What is the last book you’ve read?

 
Jean: Two of them are autobiographies of Russell Brand.  He’s very funny and a good writer.

 
Anita: Last minute pearls of wisdom?

 
Jean: Pat your concealer, don’t rub! When you rub you move the concealer to a different part of your face.  Apply the concealer to the part that needs it and pat lightly – it will blend and conceal I promise!

 
Anita: I’ve enjoyed our conversation so much, thank you! I’m looking forward to all future issues of Lucky Magazine!

 
Jean: You’re welcome, it was my pleasure!

 
After the interview I went home and tested several of Lucky’s 10th anniversary special: Essential Beauty Tips.  I made sure my hair was soaking wet before the shampoo and I did get an amazing lather!  I also patted my concealer and it worked! My new blemish was concealed! I’m going to pour over the current issue of Lucky and make sure I don’t miss any of Jean Godfrey-June’s beauty tips!
 
All beauty products mentioned in this Q&A are Available:

Macy’s
685 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94105

 
Neiman Marcus
150 Stockton Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

 
Barneys New York
777 O’Farrell Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
 
 
 
 
 
 

Natural Looking Fuller Lashes w/ Wet in Wild

Courtesy of Google Images
 
Mascara only has a shelf life of 3 months, and with the economy being what it is, it’s not always wise to spend a mini fortune on mascara.  I’m usually a makeup snob, but now that I have a beauty blog find myself testing the waters and investing more time and energy with discovering new products and products that have been around for a long time.
 
I’ve used MegaVolume by Wet in Wild and it’s one of the best drugstore mascaras out on the market.  Wet in Wild is an unlikely choice for me, one because I am a makeup snob and two I have eye allergies.  I have also purchased drugstore mascara in the past on recommendations from magazines and friends and have always been disappointed.
 
I’m not disappointed with MegaVolume by Wet in Wild – I recommend it and plan on buying it again. 
 
MegaVolume by Wet in Wild is a beauty steal at $3.99 and it gets a TEN!
 
Available at Walgreens
 

Age Intervention gentle cleanser by Jan Marini

Courtesy of Jan Marini
I’m usually a fan of cleansers that deliver a frothy lather, however I love Jan Marini Skincare – especially the Age Intervention collection.  I admit it, I’m after the fountain of youth. 
 
Jan Marini skincare is for all skin types, and offers a range of solutions for problematic skin and helps maintain skin for optimal health.
I’ve used Age Intervention Gentle Cleanser and love it! The smell is divine, reminds me of oranges.  I love that my adult acne is kept under control and that my skin is left hydrated, healthy and luminous.
 
The Gentle Cleanser can be used as eye makeup remover, it’s non-irritating and gentle enough for multiple uses throughout the day. 
 
You’re going to love the effective, hydrating creamy base that leaves behind healthy, resurfaced skin.  So if you’re after the fountain of youth, Jan Marini is the place to start.
 
Age Intervention Gentle Cleanser gets a TEN!
 
$23
 
Dawn Patrice Skincare Studio
870 Market Street Suite 1188
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-839-8184
 

Firm & gorgeous skin with Amala

Courtesy of Amala Skincare
I’m obsessed with Amala’s detoxifying firming body lotion.  I used it as a decollete treatment, my results were firmer, smoother skin.  I was in love! My bust line had the appearance of wearing an invisible bra.
 
Using Amala’s detoxifying firming body lotion leaves the skin smooth, firm and hydrated.  The apricot kernal oil helps protect the skin against pollutants and harsh weather
 
The energizing detoxifying ingredients help stimulate cell metabolism and promote healthy cell turnover.  Dry skin with Amala is a thing of the past!
 
Amala Skincare is made with whole plant ingredients that are certified natural.  The organic formulations uphold the standards that safeguard the planet, while helping transform the skin.
 
Amala means “Most Pure” in Sanskrit and is certified by NaTrue, the authority in global natural and organic cosmetic standards.
 
Detoxifying Firming Body Lotion for healthier, firmer and supple skin.
 
 
$44
Barneys New York
77 O’Farrell Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
415- 268-3500

Amazing Volume w/ Volumista by Oribe

Courtesy of Oribe
I have fine thin hair, and it seems like it keeps getting thinner.  Recently I’ve been using Volumista by Oribe.  Let’s just say that combining the Royal Blowout and Volumista I now have gorgeous luxurious hair.
 
Taking your hair to new heights is easy with Volumista.  It’s a weightless mane-pluming mist that combines innovative technology, UV Ray protection, and antioxidants for surperior Volume and Shine.  Each hair shaft is coated with New Age Polymers for incredible lushness and managable hold.
 
Oribe is a hair care line for the hair obsessed and has a huge celebrity following. 
 
Volumista also provides hair strengthing properties and conditioning.  My hair feels soft, silky and completely luxurious. 
 
Volumista by Oribe gets a TEN!
 
$29
Available at Neiman Marcus & Barneys New York
 

Velvet Matte Lips by Nars

Courtesy of Google Images
Nars Cosmetics creates gorgeous color with avant guard and provocative names.  Red is a color Nars Cosmetics does with aplomb.  Wandering through the cosmetic department at Neiman’s I came across the Nars counter and was compelled to stop.
I’ve always been a Chanel or Yves Saint Laurent girl, but recently gave in to my curiosity and explored the world of Nars.  Every girl should explore the world of Nars, pure seduction in glorious color.
I’m in love – the reds I discovered covered all spectrums of gorgeous beautiful color that compliments all skin tones.  The rich pigment leaves behind gorgeous color for a seamless application.
Cruella: A Passionate Red
Pop Life: Shimmering True Red
Dragon Girl: Vivid Siren Red
Red Square: Bright Orange Red
Forbidden Red: Brick Red
A beauty spurge at $24 – but worth every penny.  The velvet matte color is long-wearing and long-lasting.  Your lips are drenched in Vitamin E and other rich emollients for healthy soft and kissable lips.
Lately my current flame and I agreed that Red Lipstick suits me better than any other color – it is more vibrant, alluring and inspires passion.  Naturally I chose Cruella, the passionate red suits my current frame of mind.
Velvet Matte Lip Pencils by Nars gets a TEN!
$24
Neiman Marcus
150 Stockton Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
415-362-3900
ask for Jennifer Nars Specialist

Un-Wrinkle Neck by Peter Thomas Roth

Courtesy of Peter Thomas Roth
Un-Wrinkle Neck by Peter Thomas Roth is formulated with peptides, antioxidants and vitamin A,C and E –  it’s an intensive treatment that improves the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines around the neck and decolette area.
I’ve used it for the past 6 weeks and can see improvement in the area around my decolette and neck.  My skin was firmer and I could see the elasticity returning – I love that the tiny lines around my neck were minimized.  At my age it’s all about prevention and maintenance.
Using pieces from the Un-Wrinkle Peter Thomas Roth collection aid in stopping and turning back the clock.
I love how the serum absobed easly into my skin, and over a period of weeks my skin had the appearance of being brighter and my skin tone was more even.
Isn’t it time you stopped and turned back the clock?
Un-Wrinkle Neck by Peter Thomas Roth gets a TEN!
$100
Available at Sephora and Pure Beauty

Skincare 101: w/ Veronica of Malibu

Courtesy of Veronica of Malibu

*Veronica Barton-Schwartz is an aesthetician with over three decades of experience and one of the leading experts in skincare in California and beyond. Whether she is discussing skincare on national television, in magazines or doing facials at her spa in Malibu, Veronica is dedicated to her beauty business on a daily basis. Veronica has treated literally thousands of clients, including Hollywood celebrities, First Ladies and many more. With the knowledge acquired from many years of skincare study and her relentless pursuit of the very finest products available, Veronica worked with dermatologists and plastic surgeons to create her own line of advanced formulas to help everyone achieve beautiful, healthy, glowing skin.*

Taking time out of a busy schedule and with the Holidays looming and passing Veronica graciously agreed to share her skincare secrets that will aid us in the pursuit of Prevention, maintenance and Correction.

Anita: What is Prevention, Maintenance and Correction?

Veronica: First, your skin reflects your health.  Developing healthy habits that protect and nourish your skin is important.  A good diet, exercise, sleep and a good skincare routine is a way of life.  It starts from the inside out.  With Skincare, prevention starts at teaching proper skincare at an early age.  maintenance is about proper cleansing, balancing, hydrating and nourishing the skin.  Correction is using products and services that make the complexion smooth, blemish free, hydrated, healthy and beautiful!

Anita: How old should a person be when starting with Prevention?

Veronica: It starts as a young child.  Encourage an enjoyable bath time by making it an integral part of every day life.  Giving children encouragement to maintain their own hygiene is a life long habit.  Educating teens about acne and why you shouldn’t squeeze spots on your face is important ( Causes scarring and hyperpigmentation).  Acne can significantly affect a teenagers quality of life and confidence.  It’s important to help them with their prevention process.

Anita: What is age appropriate skincare?

Veronica: Skin requires different skincare at different ages, for different skin conditions.  A baby does not require the same care as a teen or an adult.  Chronological age is not the only factor to consider when determining the age of skin and the care that it needs.  The real age of skin that determines the care it needs is based on other factors.  For example, a woman in her twenties who suffered from acne is different then a woman who is the same age that suffers from dry skin and sun damage.

Anita: What type of skincare do you specialize in?

Veronica: I specialize in every type of skincare.  From acne, to preventive and aging skin.

Anita: What is a basic skincare routine?

Veronica: Cleansing, exfoliation, toning, hydration and protection for your particular skin type.

Anita: Why is it important that people have a skincare regimen?

Veronica: To keep your skin in optimal health.  Keeping your skin clear, beautiful and rejuvenated starts with a balanced diet, exercise, sleep and a good skincare routine.  Everyone’s skin is different when it comes to skincare routines.

Anita: What skincare products do you recommend for a person on a budget – anything from the drugstore?

Veronica: Good skincare products will penetrate deeper and give a better result, but there are many high quality drugstore products that I recommend to my clients everyday.  Olay Pro-X is a good line that I recommend if you have dry skin.  I make products for my clients on a budget, like Facial in a Bag has four products for any type of skin.  It has a cleanser, scrub, masque and soothing moisturizer that comes out to $22 each.

Anita: How old should a person be when considering plastic surgery or fillers?

Veronica: Different kinds of surgery requires a different minimum age.  Using cosmetic dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvederm can be a good option to improve your appearance and should be reserved for those entering middle age or older.

Anita: Tell us about your skincare collection – what makes it unique?

Veronica: The Veronica Skincare line is fortified with effective concentrations of clinically proven ingredients such as Matryxil 3000 and Argerline that penetrate skin to stimulate collagen synthesis and rebuild skin by pushing up wrinkles from within and relaxing expression lines.  This combination of ingredients rejuvenates skin and are unparalleled in quaility and effectiveness.  Because I spent many years in search for a treatment to clear my acne, I am especially sensitive to the frustration many of you experience in dealing with this disease.  The products in my skincare line are tested and were developed to treat problem skin.

Anita: If a person could only afford to purchase one item from your skincare collection, which would you recommend?

Veronica:  The Veronica Alpha Lipoic Antioxidant Cream.  It’s an all-in-one super antioxidant cream formula.  This multi-action moisturizer is infused with Alpha Lipoic, DMAE, Copper, Co-Enzyme Q10, Vitamin E and retinol to provide vibrant, healthy skin at any age.

Anita: I took note and learned a lot – Thank you Veronica and I’m looking forward to our future conversations!

Veronica Skin & Body Care Center

24955 Pacific Coast Hwy # B101
Malibu, CA 90265-4748
(310) 456-8883

Oil of Olay Pro-X is available at Walgreens and Target

Lucky Magazine’s – top ten best of beauty: Pssssst! by Freeman Beauty

Courtesy of Freeman Beauty
 
I never thought I would be raving about Dry Shampoo, but I am.  I’ve seen a professional colorist and need to preserve my hair color. My colorist recommended I use a dry shampoo, and gave me all the reasons why I should. What made me sit up and listen is that I sometimes have a heavy hand with product, I tend to use too much. 
 
Dry shampoo can refresh, remove product buildup and create volume!  I couldn’t wait till morning, so I could test it on my fine thin hair.
  
My results were thicker, fuller and shinier hair! 
  
If you’re looking for an affordable dry shampoo that delivers, try Pssssst! by Freeman Beauty – it helps keep hair color, protects against heat and styling tools and keeps your hair fresh in-between shampoos.
 
I see why it was voted top ten in Lucky Magazine’s Best of the Past Decade!
 
$7
 
Available at Molly Stones
Check out their online store as you will find special deals and promotions.

Anti-Aging Moisture w/ Intelligent Nutrients

Courtesy of Intelligent Nutrients
One of my favorite moisturizers – Anti-Aging Moisture by Intelligent Nutrients.  The clean healthy smell sends me into relaxation mode, the moisturizer hydrates and gives my skin that inner radiant glow.
 
The light-weight moisturizer absorbs easily – leaving behind soft and supple skin. I loved that I visibly saw improvement in my skins tone and elasticity. 
Anti-Aging Moisture is free of parabens, silicone and artificial fragrances – rich in emollients and antioxidants, it’s healthy food for your skin!
 
All Intelligent Nutrient products are Certified Organic – aging gracefully has never been so healthy!
For intense nourishment, hydration and that inner glow Anti-Aging Moisture by Intelligent Nutrients gets a TEN!
 
$50
 
Available at Barneys New York