Beauty Profile w/ Melissa Croland of Youngblood Cosmetics

Courtesy of MRC
 

Melissa Croland comes from a very eclectic background. After graduating from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Communications and Marketing, she began her professional career in the music industry. She landed a position with recording artist Kid Rock, where she learned the tricks of the trade and led her to Los Angeles. Once she arrived in the City of Angels, she left music’s line of business and started dabbling in other ventures. Melissa found her niche working in various areas of Public Relations. These areas include food & beverage, fashion, beauty, sports entertainment and celebrity high-profile clientele. No matter the genre, Melissa can gain brand exposure. Currently she is planting the “seed” for Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics. Melissa jumped on board this astonishing company a little over a year ago and is enjoying every minute of it. No matter what the PR task is, she is using her skills and 10 years of marketing experience to make sure everyone hears about how extraordinary Youngblood is and why everyone should be using it.

Melissa is one of the very first who believed in my talent as a beauty reviewer and has continued to support me in my endeavour.  Taking time out of a busy schedule she graciously agreed to share some of her many beauty secrets with us.

Anita: What are your top 5 beauty products & Why?

Melissa:  1.) Youngblood Mineral Primer – Best primer I have ever experienced. Smoothes the appearance of fine lines, rejuvenates skin tissue with the YB signature mineral blend and contains vitamins A and E.

2.) Latisse – I had little tiny eyelashes and now I have long thick ones. I get people thinking they are falsies!!

3.) Bliss Body Butter: Blood Orange-White Pepper – Jeepers Creepers!! True completion to my post shower routine.

4.) Shu Uemura Satin Design White Tea Polishing Milk– Yes, it’s a mouthful and not cheap, but worth the deep breath and every penny. I apply while my hair is damp before blow drying. It is left soft, with body and fly-away hairs smoothed out. XO Shu.

5.) Youngblood Mineral Radiance Moisture Tint – Of course I have to end with a YB product! Lightweight and leaves my skin with a dewy, natural finish. Always glowing with Youngblood!

Anita: What are your top Favorite Non-Brand beauty products?

Melissa:  Sandpaper – My grandmother sandpapers her feet every night and then moisturizes. She has the softest feet…NO gross calluses that you see even on the prettiest of women. It’s all about the dedication to maintenance!

Dental Floss – Oral hygiene is vital. Healthy gums equal a healthy body.

Lipgloss and Mascara – Two brilliant inventions. While I could live without them, I just don’t want to.

Anita: My favorite Question, What’s your favorite shade of Red Lipstick?

Melissa:  I have to go with Youngblood’s Spicy. It is garnet red with gold flecks…really pretty and works with a wide range of skin tones

Anita: If you only had 5 minutes in the morning, what’s your beauty routine?

Melissa:  Without out a doubt, brush and floss. Quick brush thru my hair, pony tail holder for a sloppy bun with wispy bangs. Spritz of Agent Provocateur, YB moisture tint, few strokes of mascara and apply Youngblood Coy lipgloss (natural, pale shade) as I walk out the door.

Sound like I have done this before??

Anita:  Last minute pearls of wisdom?

Melissa:  While we all love looking our best, beauty comes from the inside. Take care of yourself, stay true to who you are and what you believe in. We all have bad days…so when you do, do your hair, put on your makeup and favorite shoes, and shine like the star you are!

Anita: Beautiful words to live by! Thank you Melissa and I’m looking forward to our future conversations!

Rejuvenate with Cocoa Bean by Amala Skincare

Courtesy of Amala Skincare
Having a radiant and refreshed healthy glow can be achieved with Amala’s Rejuvenating Collagen Mask.  I love that this mask can be left on overnight, practically performing a miracle.  Everytime I use this mask I wake up with luminous, radiant skin.  The cocoa bean stimulates microcirculation and provides protection against free radicals while enriching the skin with antioxidants.
The powerful whole plant ingredients help with production of our natural collagen, renewing elasticity.
Amala – Radiant skin, responsible skincare
For that radiant, refreshed healthy glow – Rejuvenation Collagen Mask by Amala gets a TEN!
$144
Available at Barneys New York

Brilliant Brunette w/ John Frieda

Courtesy of Google Images
My hair was lacking  luster and needed  boosts of shine.  I was in-between Salon appointments and remembered John Frieda.  Walking into my neighborhood  Walgreens I picked up John Frieda’s Luminous Color Glaze – Brilliant Brunette.

After one application three days ago my hair is still shiny and vibrant.  I love the multi-dimensional shine and natural healthy color.  The Satiny texture made my hair feel and look luxurious.

 
Luminous Color Glaze by John Frieda reawakens lackluster hair with hints of glossy shine and dimension.  It also helps blend away gray and leaves your hair shiny, soft and gorgeous!

 
Luminous Color Glaze is for all shades of  Brunette – I love having healthy, shiny hair!

 
Isn’t it time you gave your hair a dose of healthy shine?
Brilliant Brunette Luminous Color Glaze by John Frieda gets a TEN!
 
$9.99
Available at Walgreens & Target

Golden Evenings w/ Cargo Cosmetics

Courtesy of Cargo Cosmetics
Cargo’s Eyebronzer is perfect for adding that touch of summer to your eyelids or creating a Golden Glow.  It looks chic and sophisticated applied to the inner corners of your eyes or layering it as gold eyeliner over your favorite eyeshadow.

I love the luxurious color housed in a convenient inkwell.  The sponge applicator makes it easy to blend and apply.

The infusion of Mica helps illuminate your eyes while the light reflecting properties create that soft-focus effect.  Great camouflage for hiding imperfections you don’t want the camera to see.

Gold eyeliner or eyeshadow is perfect for a soft daytime ladylike look or for a more dramatic sultry evening look.  Both look equally stunning paired with coral lipstick.

I love the golden effect of being instantly pretty with Cargo Cosmetics.
Eyebronzer by Cargo Cosmetics gets a TEN!
$22
Available at Macy’s

Makeup Tips: Achieving the Perfect Red Lip this Holiday w/ Arbonne

Just when I didn’t think I’d fall in love with another shade of Red – Strawberry by Arbonne is a deeper shade, a more classic shade of red that would make the Duchess of Windsor and Babe Paley proud. 

Here is a Lipstick guide that will help us achieve the perfect Red Lip this Holiday Season with Chris Colbeck.  I love the fact that Chris believes there is a shade of Red Lipstick out there for everyone!

Discovering Arbonne Cosmetics proved to be a pleasant surprise.  I love their unique Optlight Technology that works by diffusing light and creating a soft focus effect.  The ingredients in the makeup allow for the skin to breathe, and give that light-as-air feeling.
Nothing more than loving Red Lipstick is the feeling of not wearing any.  For that smudge-proof kissable pout with ultra hydration,
 
Strawberry by Arbonne gets a TEN!
 

Blemish Drying Lotion by Veronica of Malibu

Courtesy of Veronica Skincare

Sometimes no matter how much we take care of our skin we are still going to experience acne.

I mask on a regular basis and use skincare with salicylic acid, but I have no control over stress and hormones.

I’ve tried all kinds of blemish treatments, and many of them have worked, but nothing has worked as quickly and efficiently as Veronica of Malibu’s Blemish Drying Lotion.

I experienced one of my many breakouts and Veronica’s drying lotion not only dried out the acne, but reduced redness, irritation and prevented new blemish growth.

The ingredients like Tea Tree Oil and Sulfur encouraged the sloughing of  dead skin cells and bacteria.

Blemish Drying Lotion by Veronica of Malibu gets a TEN!

$24

Veronica Skin & Body Care Center

24955 Pacific Coast Hwy Ste B101

(310) 456–8883

Malibu, CA 90265

Q&A w/ Dawn Patrice of the Dawn Patrice Skincare Studio

Courtesy of Jim Vetter

 

Dawn Patrice is a licensed esthetician and massage therapist.  She studied at the San Francisco Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology, and acquired advanced training in Brazilian Waxing, Eyebrow Design and my favorite Hairline Resculping.  She studied Massage Therapy at the renowned Wat Po medicine school in Bangkok, Thailand.
 
In-between appointments and the Holiday Season approaching Dawn graciously took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few beauty questions – the subject being Skincare. 
 
I believe that most people don’t focus on the importance of skincare, and that most women focus more on makeup – ladies I hate to break it to you but makeup is not the solution, skincare is.  I hope you find the interview with Dawn informative as I did.
  
Anita: What type of skincare treatments do you specialize in?
  
Dawn: I specialize in preventative and correction skincare treatments, such as resurfacing peels and Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments. 
  
Anita: Why should someone have Professional Skincare Treatments on a regular basis?
  
Dawn:  Regular professional skincare treatments can slow down and prevent the visible signs of aging as well as correct a variety  of common conditions such as acne and uneven pigmentation.  Having regular treatments monthly will improve overall skin tone, promote and stimulate collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkle and manage acne breakouts.
  
Anita: Does it help to use professional grade products at home?
  
Dawn: Using professional grade skincare products at home will help maintain results in-between treatments and professionally managed skincare means you are using the appropriate products for your skin type and getting the most for your money.
  
Anita: What is age appropriate skincare?
  
Dawn: Skin requires different care at different ages and for different skin conditions.  The skin of a teenager requires different considerations than that of someone in their 30’s.  Age Appropriate skincare will address the skincare needs based not only on skin type but current skin conditions that can be affected by environmental factors, lifestyle and age.
  
Anita: How does someone determine their skin condition?
  
Dawn: There are 3 main skin types which are determined by pore size.  Normal/Combination – visible pores along the forehead, nose and chin.  Dry – visible pores on the sides of the nose and chin.  Oily –  visible pores along the forehead, nose, chin and cheeks. Your skin type is determined by your genes and stays the same throughout your life.  There are 5 main skin conditions – which can be applied to all skin types.  Dehydration – loss of elasticity, wrinkles, sensitivity and acne.  Often there are several different conditions that need to be addressed, working with an experienced Esthetician will help address your needs and make the most out of your regimen.
  
 
Anita:  What is managed skincare?
  
Dawn: Professionally managed skincare can help dertermine the appropriate skincare treatments and home care products for your skin type and condition.  Managed skincare can help you achieve more dramatic results and slow down the aging process as well as correct skin conditions.  Lifestyle and budget are taken into consideration and following a few simple steps everyday can help you achieve younger, healthier skin.
  
 
Anita: Can Acne be prevented?
  
 
Dawn: Acne can be prevented, treated and managed.  An experienced esthetician can help determine the causes of the individuals acne and recommend appropriate treatments and home care products.  Regular professional peels can help by properly exfoliating the skin, delivering high-grade antibacterials and ani-inflammatories, and reducing acne bacteria. 
  
 
Anita: Why is it important to be on a skincare regimen?
  
 
Dawn: Following a consistent skincare regimen at home daily will help maintain results in-between treatments.  An appropriate daily regimen is essential for those battling with acne and usually includes at home maintenance using a combination of alpha-hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide and antioxidants. 
  
Anita: If I am on a budget, what skincare products would you recommend?
  
Dawn: Being on a budget does not mean you have to sacrifice having healthy skincare habits.  A basic regimen should include a cleanser, moisturizer, and a daily SPF.  Antioxidants are essential and should be minimally included in your moisturizer and ideally in your sunscreen during the day.  I like Jan Marini Skin Research because the collection is reasonably priced and very antioxidant focused.  Additional products can be added if your budget allows for more dramatic results.  My favorite products are the Jan Marini Bioglycolic Cleanser, Bioclear lotion and Antioxidant SPF – they are gently and effective and I’ve used them for over 5 years and wouldn’t use anything else on my skin.
  
Anita: Any last-minute pearls of wisdom?
 
Dawn: Consistancy is key with any skincare regimen.  Skincare is a process, not a product and what you do at home everyday is going to have the biggest impact on your skin’s health, both short-term and long-term.  Using high quality professional grade products will ensure that the ingredients you are using are active and will actually deliver results.
 
Anita:  Thank you Dawn!  I’ve learned so much and I hope our readers are paying attention, it’s not the makeup that makes the difference in how we look and feel, but our skin!  I feel that people in general don’t pay enough attention to skincare, and it’s a big part of aging gracefully.  I look forward to our future conversations!
 
*For those of you that want to begin the year with Healthy Skin, mention this interview and receive $25 dollars off your first appointment with Dawn Patrice.
 
Dawn Patrice Skincare Studio
 
The Flood Building

870 Market Street #1188

San Francisco, CA 94101

 415-839-8184

Crimson for the Holidays w/ Youngblood Cosmetics

Courtesy of Youngblood Cosmetics

My favorite shades, and just in time for the Holidays.  The gorgeous colors remind me of cherries, grapes and luscious plums.

From metallic reds, deep garnets and lively rubies there is a shade of red for everyone.

From left to right: Mystere, Vixen, Bistro and Spicy Kranberry – all equally my favorite.  Although I have a soft spot for Vixen.

Youngblood is a Mineral Based Cosmetic company that creates Luxurious, Moisturizing and Lanolin Free Lipsticks!

The lipsticks have a superior blend of Natural Oils, Minerals and Candela Wax for super hydration that lasts all day, even after morning coffee.

These Gorgeous colors come in 6 color families with 22 colors to choose from.  So go ahead and Glow, Pout, and Wink with Youngblood Cosmetics!

Youngblood Cosmetics get’s a TEN!

$17

Beauty Profile w/ Laura Carson Miller – Beauty Expert

Courtesy of LCM
 
Laura’s been in the Salon/Spa business for years before becoming a full-time freelance lifestyle writer and beauty expert.  She covers all aspects of living a glamorous lifestyle of good taste and beauty. She has graciously agreed to share with us a few of her beauty tips and secrets.  And as usual I’ll be taking notes.
 
Anita: What are your top 5 favorite beauty products and why?
 
Laura: 1) Lip Gloss – it gives me a little boost without looking totally ‘Made Up’.  I’m not a big lipstick person.  I like very few lipsticks.  My favorites are CoverGirl LipSlicks in Princess and Chanel Glossomer in Blizzard.  2) Cuticle Care – You can have a beautiful polish job and if you have ragged, dry or cracked cuticles, it totally detracts from your hands.  Moisturize your cuticles daily!  I love Duri Herbatherpy or Elizabeth Arden’s 8 Hour Cream.  3)  Sunscreen with an SPF or higher – this is the most important beauty product – bar none.  I am a fan of Aveeno positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30. 4) Foot File – Using a foot file on dry or wet feet is the best way to prevent callouses.  I like the Flowery Swedish Clover foot file. 5) Mascara – You can go over the top with 3 coats of black or much more subtle with one coat of brown mascara on top lashes only.  My current favorites are Revlon Grow Luscious and Maybelline Falsies. 
Anita: Favorite Non-Brand beauty products and why?
Laura: 1) I love Olive Oil – it can be used to moisturize dry elbows, knees, cuticles, hands and hair etc. 2) I have dark brown hair and do a coffee rinse, then condition.  This gives my hair loads of shine! 3) Avocado makes a wonderful mask for face or hair – check the internet for recipes.
 
Anita: My favorite question, what’s your favorite shade of Red Lipstick?
 
Laura: I’m not a big fan of Red Lipstick on myself – I love Juice Beauty SPF 8 Lip Moisturizer in Playful, a strawberry shade.  Personally I think Red Lipstick is often a beauty blunder!  You must have just the right of shade of red for your skin tone and you must know how to apply it and most important you need the right attitude to pull it off. 
 
Anita: If you only had 5 minutes in the morning to get ready, which beauty products would you use?
 
Laura: I never spend more than 5 minutes anyway! I curl my lashes and apply mascara, maybe a little mineral powder, and a bit of eye pencil with lip gloss and I’m out the door!
 
Anita: Last minute pearls of wisdom?
 
Laura: I think the downfall of makeup is that women can use too much, subtle makeup is alluring and shows off your features, not the makeup itself.  Tread lightly in the makeup department.  A very important aspect of makeup is that it can make you look older.  Frosty or sparkly makeup can easily settle into fine lines and the worst culprit for aging is dark lipstick.  A dark shade of plum or brown can add 20 years!

Dry Texturizing Spray by Oribe

Courtesy of Oribe
Another hairspray that has sent me into rapture, Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray.  My hair was volumized with gorgeous texture. 
 
I love that this amazing spray can be used as a dry shampoo that can leave your hair styled for days and nights.
 
Oribe hair care has a complete hair care collection for every hair care need.  The dry texturizing spray is paraben-free, protects color and offers UV protection.
 
A few key ingredients:
 
Mango Extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins that hydrate and nourish the hair.
 
Sunflower Seed Extract: Delivers incredible shine while providing color protection.
 
Pro Vitamin B5: Thickens, Moisturizes and Strengthens your hair.
  
These are only a few of the ingredients, as if we need more reasons to love Oribe hair care?
 
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray gets a TEN!
 
$39
 
Available at Neiman Marcus & Barneys New York