Q: I have very thin eyelashes and barely their eyebrows is there anything I can do them to make them fuller? You can go the fake route. For the lashes you can learn how to apply false lashes or get lash extensions. For the brows buy brow filler and pencils. But I came across another option recently. Dea Bella Eyelash Conditioner ($150, http://deabella.com) a thickening, lengthening serum designed for application to skimpy lashes and brows once daily. They guarantee that you will have naturally beautiful eyelashes in as few as 2-8 weeks. So why spend money on fake lashes, lash extensions and eyebrow fillers when you can grow your own lashes and brows.

Q: I have dry color treated hair. Should I be using products geared towards color treated hair? Yes. If you have hair that has been colored your hair has special needs and has to be treated with products that address these issues. Harsh sulfates, harsh surfactants and salts found in traditional hair products dull color and damage already fragile hair. You need a product that doesn’t contain these and that works to moisturize hair strands.

Products like those found in L’Oreal Paris New EverPure Color Care System ($6.99-$8.99, lorealparis.com and chain, drug and food stores nationwide). EverPure brings advanced technology and incredible color care together. Because it doesn’t use the harsh ingredients of other products on the market, EverPure is able to deliver long-lasting color purity with their Anti-Fad System shampoos and conditioners. You will be impressed with the way the ultra-creamy shampoo softens hair and the conditioner doesn’t weigh hair down. Choose from Extra Nourishment, Frizz Fighting, Volumizing, and Extra Protection. All designed to keep your color and hair looking its best.

Q: With all the straightening, blow drying and styling I do to my hair it is really starting to look flat and lifeless. Any suggestions how to get some body back into my hair? Even if you spend all day trying to get your hair straight and smooth you still want to have a little bit of body in it. What happens is with repeated straightening and moisture loss your hair can dry out and look lifeless. I would first suggest you use a product like P2 InCrease Volumizze Conditioner ($29.95, philippelusi.com). This shampoo dramatically increases volume of fine limp hair. InCrease Shampoo has 15 phyto-essential ingredients that provide protein and strength and maximum volume. Lo-softening formula produces a gleaming soft finish without weighing down hair.

Once your hair feels clean and has more life. Use a product that helps create volume and shine. My favorite by far is Ted Gibson’s Build It Blow-Drying Agent ($28, target.com). It builds ultimate body and volume for hair no matter what the texture by using a Merlot complex. The complex is inspired by the secrets of red wine and it creates luscious body, bold movement and intense shine to your hair. Perfect for hair that is thin, flat or dry. Hair instantly has body.

4. Due to the recession I need to buy some hair products that give me more bang for my buck. Do you have a few recommendations of products that are low on price but high on results? The recession has hit a lot of us hard and all indicators are saying that it’s going to get worse before it gets better. So looking for budget friendly beauty products is a good way to save money every month. If your look for hair products your in luck because they are a number of excellent products out there that won’t break your bank.

If you go to your local drug or beauty supply store you can find two product lines that contain every product you need all for $3.99. The first is Optimum Oil Therapy by Softsheen Carson is full line of hair care, which utilizes an innovative blend of natural micro-oils that soothes dry scalps without leaving a buildup. The formula contains essential oils like jojoba, olive and coconut to help promote hair growth. The line includes products such as an Ultimate Recovery Shampoo and Conditioner, an Over-Nite Strengthener and 3-in-1 Oil Moisturizer. These products all feel and act like products 3x the price.

The second line is Let’s Jam Style Control products. These new products work hard to give you styling options that moisturize and shine. The line of products includes: Styling Spritz, Hair Polish and Sculpting Liquid Wax. Sometimes with less expensive lines they dry your hair out and leave your hair dull. But this line keeps hair looking vibrant and smooth with ingredients like glycerin, vitamins A and B complex and wheat protein. Your hair and wallet will thank you.

Q: What is the healthiest and fastest way to blow-dry my hair?
Anytime you blast heat on to the hair shaft you run the risk of damage and breakage. But with new technology and the right products you reduce this risk significantly. First you need to coat the hair with a heat and humidity gel like Ouidad’s Climate Control Gel ($22, ouidad.com). This humidity resistant gel is excellent at protecting hair from blow-dryer heat. The ingredients in the gel evaporate when the heat hits your hair, therefore saving the strand from direct heat damage. Nothing ruins a good blow dry like your roots frizzing, and Climate Control helps to prevent that while protecting hair.

Then you want to get a salon quality blow dryer with Ion Technology. Ionic Technology produces positive energy and infuses moisture into the hair shaft that way reducing dryness and protecting against breakage. Try Prosilk Ceramic Far Infrared Dryer 3000PD ($129.95, prosilk.com). This dryer not only provides Ion Technology but Ceramic Heat that will help maintain an even temperature during blow drying ensuring the penetration of silk molecules to the hair. Prosilk Ceramic Dryer dries hair 50 percent faster than normal hair dryers. Which cuts down on how long heat will be on your hair, which is another tool against breakage.

Q: If I smell one more holiday candle I am going to scream. What candle can you recommend that will have me thinking of the summer and not the snowy winter? I will admit I love a good Sugar Cookie or Holiday Spice candle during the holidays. But like you, once we take down the tree I am ready for it to be summer time. And that’s when I pull out my LAVANILA The Healthy Candle in Vanilla Coconut ($32, sephora.com). This pure beeswax candle will naturally lift your spirits and have you dreaming of sandy beaches and drinks with umbrellas. The scent is soft and gentle like a breeze and will provide the room with the warm fragrance of a vanilla and coconuts.

But this candle just doesn’t transport you it also makes the environment you are in a little healthier. LAVANILA The Healthy Candle is infused with pure essential oils. It uses the highest quality ingredients and exotic essential oils from around the world. All natural, non-allergenic, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, these beeswax-blend candles burn clean to create a safe and healthy environment without releasing harmful smoke, pollutants, toxins, or soot into the air you breathe.

Q: How do I get thick and full eyelashes like the stars? One of the quickest ways to star get superstar eyes is to create long thick eyelashes. And there are a variety of ways you can do that. Eyelash extensions are one way. This process involves gluing extensions on to your individual lashes. Like a weave for your lashes. The draw back is that it requires maintenance, lashes may break and isn’t cheap.

Another way is to glue false lashes on. You can buy a strip of lashes like M.A.C. Cosmetics Lash 3 ($12, maccosmetics.com) and apply glue to the top part of the lash. Then with skill that you will have to learn by practicing you glue the lash to the very top part of your natural lash. While they are affordable you have to know what you’re doing to achieve the perfect look.

But if you don’t want fake eyelashes and instead you want your own lashes to look like false ones then try this last option the LiLash ($139.97, lilash.com). Used daily, LiLash will grow the appearance of the longest, fullest lashes you have ever had. You just apply it daily like a liquid eyeliner and in just a few short weeks you will notice LiLash begin to change your lashes right in front of your eyes. It is the world’s most powerful and fastest-acting eyelash conditioner. LiLash is a favorite of eyelash extension wearers who notice better support and less lash breakage. I was skeptical at first but this product really delivers. No more false lashes for me. I just apply some mascara and I am good to go.

Q: What is the latest buzz worthy hair product? It seems as if there is an endless stream of hair products filling the shelves. So it’s hard to really know which product works and which doesn’t. Well this season there is one product that is creating waves in the hair care industry. B the Product Deep Conditioned ($57.50, btheproduct.com) is a conditioner that not only protects the hair but also works to protect the hair. Created by Brandon Martinez the star of Blow Out and Salon Diaries, this conditioner goes where other conditioners don’t. The formula contains soy, eucalyptus and rose hip oil, to coat and protect each strand. Perfect for all hair types and it smells amazing. It definitely deserves the buzz it’s been getting.

Q: My office manager keeps the heat in our office on full blast in the winter and as a result my skin feels like leather by the end of the December. What products can I use to keep my skin hydrated in indoor heat?
Nothing dries your skin faster then a tanning bed or indoor heat. It’s like blow-drying your skin with the heat on high. Plus offices tend to have low humidity, which leaves skin chapped, dry and irritated. The trick is replenishing the moisture in your skin with a nourishing crème. Goat Milk Facial Crème by Chivas Skin Care is the perfect product for all day hydration ($16, chivasskincare.com). This fragrance free goat milk crème is 82% Organic and fragrance free making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. It is super light but ultra hydrating. The crème goes on smooth and uses natural ingredients like goat’s milk, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil and organic aloe juice to moisturize skin throughout the day. A perfect solution for indoor heating dryness.

Q: Is there any anti-wrinkle product that really works?
The market is flooded with products that claim that they will have your skin looking like a newborn babies in two weeks. And if their claims were true I would buy enough of those creams to fill my living room. But there are creams on the market that do what they say and really deliver. The trouble is trying to find which creams work and which are selling you dreams. Let me help you just a little bit. I recently heard about two new products that help increase skins elasticity and firmness. Relastin makes a skin crème called the Skin Revitalizer ($69, relastin.com). It is a skin firming lotion that works through all seasons, for all skin types, day or night, for all skin types. Using Relastin’s Skin Firming Complex, Skin Revitlzaer helps skin’s cells to produce elastin and restore elasticity on their own. Skin is left looking firmer, smoother and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The other product is Borba Age Defying Concentrate Açaí Elastin Fiber Treatment Serum ($45, borba.com). It is enriched with a highly concentrated dose of skin-rejuvenating nutrients plus Heptapeptide-1. Gentle enough for even sensitive skin. BORBA Age-Defying Concentrate Açaí Elastin Fiber Treatment Serum is an innovative antioxidant facial serum that provides moisture, elasticity and firmness to the skin. Reduces signs of fine lines and wrinkles resulting in newer looking skin.

Q: I have a huge holiday party at work and I want to look like a knockout. I have no idea how to do eye makeup. Help?
No need to worry. Well maybe about your promotion but not about your eye makeup. ColorOn’s EyeEnvy Tinsel Kit ($25, sephora.com) will make getting your face ready for the holiday party an cinch. Really the hardest part will be deciding what color to wear. This revolutionary, one-size-fits-all mineral cream eye shadow appliqués kit does the rest.

The Tinsel Kit features five pairs of peel-off mineral cream eye shadows. They are 100% hypoallergenic, longwearing, crease proof and can be put on in minutes. . With stunning colors and avant-garde designs, these appliqués fit every eye size and shape and can be applied in minutes. And the Tinsel Kit is packed with festive shadows and fun shapes (like a star). The kit also comes with GetSet application powder and brush. You will be party ready in no time.

Q: I am traveling to visit my family for the holidays. I don’t want to carry a bunch of products for my hair. What should I pack?
A: Now that most airlines charge you at least $15 for each checked bag and you can’t bring any of your beauty products over 4 oz in your carry-on it is absolutely crucial to find a good travel kit for your hair. You want to look for a set that is not only small enough to travel with but also that is top quality so that you aren’t sacrificing any quality in order to fit it into your bag. A great set that merges quality and convenience is The Jane Carter Solution Travel Pack ($22, janecartersolution.com).

There our six 2 oz essential Jane Carter Solution products zipped inside a durable make up sized bag that you can throw in your carry-on. The luxurious products include Moisture Nourishing Shampoo, Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner, Wrap & Roll, Nourish & Shine balm, Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner and Condition & Sculpt. This set will have you looking great from the moment you land till the moment you take off.

Q: My lips always dry out in the winter and I would love to find a cute lip-gloss that also moisturizes my lips. Any suggestions?
A: Bad weather and dry indoor heat really does dry up even the most moisturized of lips. You need to find a gloss hat moisturizes and protects lips. Prescriptives New LipShine ($17.50, prescriptives.com) does just that. It improves lip moisture while protecting and softening lips. The high shine gloss comes in 12 colors that include Vanilla Latte, Iced Coffee, Pink Smoothie, Passionfruit and Boysenberry. And it contains antioxidants Vitamin C & E helping to nourish and protect the lips from harsh conditions.

Q: How do you keep your hair healthy throughout the winter?
A: Hair usually takes a beating during the winter. People tend to pull heir hair back in ponytails more, don’t condition enough and allow dry indoor heat to suck out the moisture. These factors add up to leave us with dehydrated lifeless hair by the end of winter. But it doesn’t have to be like this. You can fight back by keeping your hair out of your everyday winter ponytail, washing hair with moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and coating strands with a leave in conditioner. Charles Worthington London makes a great moisture seal line that helps to bring the beauty, vitality an bounce back to dry, damaged hair with super-hydrating an protective products. The Moisture Seal Shampoo helps to transform damaged hair from within boosts hair’s natural ability to absorb and retain moisture and gently cleanses already-fragile hair (All products are $5.99 and can be found at greater drugstores nationwide).

The Moisture Seal Conditioner infuses dry hair with active rehydration and smoothers. And the moisture Seal Hair Healer Leave-In Conditioner is a deep-acting cream that coats your hair with a moisturizing shield against external drying factors, like heat styling and bad weather.

Q: I need some beautiful candles for my bathroom. I spend a lot of time in there doing my makeup, hair and taking bubble baths and I want something that will great a relaxing atmosphere. Any suggestions?
I think its wonderful that you are trying to create a beautiful relaxing space to do your beauty routine in. I truly think our atmosphere effects the way we look. So if your in a hectic messy, unorganized environment your look will reflect that. I think the lighting a few smell good candles and slowing you’re your routine down can help you relax and help you create a more put together look.

I suggest Altru Artistry Aromatic Soy Blend Candle ($55, gamillahboutique.com). The soy blend wax candle comes beautifully packaged in a hammered copper vessel with a delicate golden lining. After lighting this in your bathroom you will be left with a medley of rich, warm spices and creamy vanilla with hints of black tea. And its beautiful enough to leave out at all times.

And you can always leave out fragrance like a diffuser in order for your bathroom to smell good at all times which helps create a more relaxed environment. Try Melange Apothecary Grenade Home Ambiance Diffuser ($30, melangeapothecary.com) a fruity and sweet Pomegranate with notes of Nectarine and Bergmaount citrus. The scent is gentle and comforting but with a nice twist.

Q: I recently accepted a new position in my company and will be traveling a lot more. What are the best beauty products to travel with?
When you are traveling you want to pack as light as possible. Nothing is worse then packing a ton of full size products only to have them either bust open in your luggage or be taken out of your carry on by the gate agents.Trust me. So you need to get a set of travel size products that will help you continue your beauty routine no matter where you are at. I recently got my hands on an adorable set that will be perfect for travel. Lalicious Travel Set ($50, lalicious.com) contains everything you need to clean, exfoliate, moisturize all in airplane approved sizes. The set comes is a beautiful, canvas clutch with a handle and latch and 4 2oz Travel Size LaLicious products. You get a Whipped Soap, Sugar Soufflé Scrub, Body Butter and Body Oil all in your favorite scent. Pick from scents like Coconut Cream, Passionfruit Lime or Tahitian Flower among others. I liked the Lalciious Travel Set so much I almost booked myself a trip just so that I could have an excuse to use it.

Q: I love the look of the models and celebrities with cool headbands and hair accessories but I don’t know how to wear them. What are some tips?
The runways last month were filled with beautiful models wearing beautiful hair accessories. From feather headbands to skinny headbands and scarfs. Accessories are an easy way to turn the volume up on your look and keep thinks looking fresh. If you don’t feel like doing much more then pulling your hair back then why not slip on a cool headband or sparkly hair clip? It can turn a boring pony into a work of art. The trick is to find accessories that suit your look. If you are going for a cool laid back vibe try a cool patterned head scarf. If you are going for something more put together try a simple head band in basic color.

Goody has a ton of fun and sophisticated hair accessories. There Precious Metals collection sold exclusively at Target, is full of femmine sophisticated accessories that unite modern metallics with classic lines. The metal hair clips and berets are amazing. If your looking for a fun retro look check out Goody’s Paisleydelic Collection at Target as well. The collection fuses organic shapes with bright, vivid colors. Paisleydelic reinvents an iconic pattern in a sassy, playful way in every headband and hair accessory.

Q: My body wash is great but I want a new fun scent. Something that won’t leaving smelling like flowers. What do you suggest I try?
I am a firm believer that a a body wash can make or break your shower. If you have a boring or overpowering body wash the shower is worthless. If you have a fun great smelling body wash then you leave the shower in a great mood. Philosophy makes the best selling body washes on the planet. Each body wash is also a shampoo and bubble bath too. I would recommend one of their latest and greatest, The Soda Fountain ($30, philosophy.com). The set contains three scents that will take you right back to the days of the soda fountain, rootbeer float, cherry cola and fruit punch. These ultra-rich formulas leave skin clean and silky soft. The deliciously sweet and refreshing scents of a creamy rootbeer float, syrupy cherry cola and red fruit punch, are a great start to any morning.

Q: My boyfriends birthday is next month and he loves fragrances. Do you have any suggestions for something that will knock his socks off?
Aren’t you a wonderful girlfriend. He is lucky to have you because my boyfriend gets a pair of white tube socks each birthday. Anyways because your such a good girl friend you should get him a scent that is totally unexpected and fresh. Something that will remind him each time he puts it on just how amazing and unique you are. Kenzo Power Eau de Toilette ($55-$75, kenzopower.com) is fragrance created for men that will do just that. Described as a fragrance of opposites, that is simple and surprising, sensitive and masculine, Kenzo is guaranteed to quietly surprise each time you smell it. Now you might be familiar with the flowery soft fragrance and bottle of the Kenzo fragrance for women but it only takes one long at the sleek flask like bottle of the mens fragrance to know that this is a much different Kenzo then your used too. The scent is a mixture of spice with woody amber notes. The deep fragrance is a mixture of spices with a woody and amber note. It’s mixed with bergamot, coriander and cardamon, as well as cedar wood to create a flowery yet purely masculine scent. This is a fragrance that you can’t go wrong giving to your man for his birthday.

Q: Will taking vitamins and supplements really help my skin and hair?
Your hair, skin and nails reflect your general health. If you are lacking in vitamins and minerals or are in poor health, your hair and skin will suffer. Skin may look dry, dehydrated and lose radiance. Your hair may break off, become damaged, start to thin and may stop growing. Making sure you have a balanced diet is one that you can you make sure that your hair and skin are at their optimum health. But if you feel as if your diet is lacking taking a supplement with essential vitamins and minerals will help to keep both healthy. In general taking a vitamin supplement with B-vitamins and lots of amino acids can help your skin and hair be their healthiest. Realfood Organics Your Daily Nutrition is a perfect way to get your vitamins and minerals and it is equal to 1 serving of fruits and vegetables (Health Food Stores Nationwide). This high-energy, one-a-day multi is for everyone and was created by using organic fruits and vegetables. And don’t forget to make sure you drink plenty of water to keep from being dehydrated inside and out.

Q: I just want one product to throw into my beauty routine to change it for the fall. What do you suggest?
To get your beauty routine ready for this fall I would inject some unexpected color. Maybe deep shimmering charcoal or peach. Smashbox’s Wicked Lovely Eyeshadow’s Duo in Sexy Demure ($24, smashbox.com) gives you the chance to create a smoldering look for the fall. Or go for the color of the fall, deep plum. Try Diorshow Plum Mascara ($24, sephora.com). This limited edition version of Dior’s cult-favorite mascara takes the beloved bestselling formula and makes it a gorgeous shade of deep plum for the fall. The jumbo brush crates impossibly long, thick , dramatic lashes for an ultra-glam, lase eyelash look.

Q: I want my teeth white but can’t afford the expensive teeth bleaching process. Is there an at home kit that really works?
There are tons of at home whitening kits available but the kit that I personally love is the iWHITE Teeth Whitening Kit ($44.99, iwhitesmile.com). The kit delivers fast and effective results with their breakthrough at home teeth whitening technology. IWHITE Teeth Whitening kit contains several bleaching foam strips and mouth tray that activates the strips with pulses of neon Electroluminescent energy. This energy is directed through the molecules of matter of the whitening gel. Now it is really high tech but all you have to know is that after a few safe treatments you are left with impossibly white teeth.

Q: Fragrances are all starting to smell the same to me. Is there any new fragrance out that is breaking out of the pack?

I agree. It seems like most of the new fragrances out now really don’t smell so new. They are all starting to blend together with the same notes. Which doesn’t leave your average perfume shopper that excited about the fall fragrance line up.

No need to fret. There is a new fragrance by Diesel that is taking chances and mixing things up. Diesel Fuel For Life Fragrance for Women ($52 - $68, diesel-fragrances.com) is a new scent that is said to be inspired by the passion, emotion and sensuality that flows through each of our veins. The fragrance puts a twist on classical codes of fragrance by mixing and matching to create a unique fragrance construction. The Women Fuel for Life has notes of jasmine, patchouli, blackcurrant and crème de cassis. You are left with an innocent feminine fragrance that is backed up with a strong sexual sensuality. Truly a stand out fragrance that will help you stand out from the pack.

Q: What are some fun new lip glosses out now that I can try? I am tired of my same old gloss.

Then end of summer is definitely the time to switch up a little and nothing is easier to switch then your lip gloss. There are three super fun lip gloss products to try that will have you wishing you switched earlier. The first one is Tropez Ultra Glaze Lip gloss ($1.99, drugstores nationwide). This gloss is ultra-shinny but also rich and creamy. The color stays on for a long time but it never looks matte or dull. Plus with 10 fun shades that include names like Catz Meow, In the Nude and Spring Fling and a price point of $1.99, you seriously can’t go wrong.

The second is Desert Essence Organics Lip Rescue Lip Tints ($5.99, Whole Foods Market and Health Food Stores Nationwide). Each one of the deliciously yummy organic Lip Tints work to heal and moisturize dry, chapped lips. The Rescue Lip Tints contain Jojoba oil and sunflower oil to protect and offer long lasting moisture. And vitamin E to shield skin cells on your lips from UV rays, pollutants and other environmental damage. So while providing just enough sheer color they are actually helping to heal and protect your lips and you can’t beat that.

Finally I recommend the Sheer Tint and Lip Plumper by Kimiko ($37, kimikobeauty.com). To get your sexiest lips yet use this sheer tint lip gloss and lip plumper. On one end of the product you have a sheer color that uses berry and pomegranate extracts to provide the color and antioxidant protection. On the other end you have the plumper that contains dehydrated collagen molecules to re-hydrate and instantly plump and smooth lips and has a cool refreshing feel. This gloss is so amazing it almost feels like a special treat for your lips.

Q: My skin is super dry from a summer of sand and sun. What can I do to make my skin supple and soft?

Relieving dry skin is one of the most common inquires I get after each summer. People spend a ton of time in the summer outdoors having fun and soaking up sun rays (hopefully with SPF30 or higher slathered all over). And with more time spent outdoors it usually means less time spent indoors on your beauty routine. These factors create a recipe for really dry, dehydrated skin.

The best way to relieve and moisturize your skin is with a two step process. Step one involves using an exfoliator to scrub off dead dehydrated skin. This is important so that in the second step the moisturizer will be able to fully penetrate. I suggest using Soap & Paper Factory Body Scrubs ($44, soapandpaperfactory.com). Each scrub is green, paraben, phthalate and petroleum free, so that after an energizing scrub all you are left with is beautifully clean skin. The handmade scrubs perfectly buff off rough dry skin and leave you with nothing but the glistening vibrant skin underneath. They come in a variety of great smelling fragrances like Orange Blossom, Green Tea and Fig.

In the second step you want to use an ultra hydrating moisture that will penetrate the skin and provides long lasting moisture. M LAB Body treatment Cream ($185, mlabonline.com) does just that. It works by using a fusion of peptides, exfoliants and hydrators to help promote collagen and elastin production. It also works to smooth and brighten dull skin tone. The cream is super rich and a little goes along way. Immediately skin will look and feel better and will be softer to the touch. It uses a combination of emollients to help restore the natural moisture barrier and provides comfort to stressed skin states with soothing agents.

Q: I love straightening my hair but don’t love the damage it causes. Do you have any suggestions for a flat iron that isn’t so damaging?

If your hair is already dry and frizzy you don’t want to use heat tools that will continue to add to the problem. That’s where the IZUNAMI flat iron comes in ($199, izunami.com). This amazing iron employs superior gliding ceramic plates that prevents frizz, seal in natural moisture and create a brighter sheen. The combination of the Tourmaline, Ionic and Ceramic Plates create an iron that has super gliding capabilities resulting in shiny and smooth hair without creating the damage other flat irons cause. Finally a flat iron that not only doesn’t harm the hair but through revolutionary technology, actually adds shine to hair and seals in moisture. Plus it allows you to create curls, twists, flicks and waves or straighten hair in minutes. Perfect.

Q: Can I use my anti-aging face cream on my neck?

Using your face cream for your delicate neck and décolletage area is not a great idea. Although using face cream is better then not using anything because this area is extremely sensitive and prone to dryness and sagging. But ideally you want to purchase a cream that specifically works to treat that area. StriVectin Neck Cream is a multi-functional concentrate for the neck and décolletage ($90, strvectin.com).It contains a proprietary combination of ingredients that are designed to visibly firm and tighten the neck area to reduce the appearance of sagging skin, improve the look of the neckline and décolletage and even skin tone. StriVectin Neck Cream using botanical extracts and other natural ingredients to target this area and tone and firm skin. You are left with a neck and décolletage that not only look younger but also make your face appear younger.

1. In the summer my skin gets darker and my foundation ends up being to light. So I need a new foundation. What foundations do you recommend?
You bring up a common problem for those whose skin gets more color in the sun and walk around sporting mismatch foundation during the summer. The solution for me has been to find a lightweight foundation half way through the summer that matches my average summer skin. Not the lightest or the darkest color your skin will be in the summer. I pick a color in the middle to buy for my foundation. Then in the winter I have a different color that I use. For the spring and fall transitions I then mix the two to get close to the shade I am. Iman’s Second to None Cream to Powder Foundation is perfect no matter what the season ($13.99, walgreens.com). It gives you a truly flawless look and the powder glides on like silk. And all though it provides you the coverage of a cream foundation it leaves you with a velvety powder finish. Plus, they have a ton of colors so you are sure to find one that matches your skin tone throughout the year.

2. They discontinued my favorite fragrance. And now I am lost because I wore it everyday. Help!!!!
I feel your pain. Trust me, I have been there and it’s hard — especially when it was your signature scent. But instead of spending all my time trying to see if anybody posted an old bottle on eBay, I used it as an opportunity to find a new fragrance, a new signature.

Let me help you find your new scent. The freshest most unexpected scent that has passed under my nose this summer is Estee Lauder Sensuous Eau de Parfum ($39.50 - $69.50, esteelauder.com). Sensuous is a warm, inviting, woody amber fragrance that is complex and risky. The fragrance notes are a harmonious blend of woody, spicy, and floral that melt into your skin once it is applied. It truly is a new way to define your sensuous self.

3. Eye shadows always look really different on me then they do in their packages. It drives me crazy and I waste a lot of money on colors that I can’t wear. What can I do? Bobbi Brown creates eye shadows and blushes that go on the closest I have seen to the color you see in the package. The Shimmer Wash Eye Shadows( $20, bobbibrowncosmetics.com) are sheer, lightly pearlized shadows that softly illuminate lids or can be used as a highlighter shade under the brow bone. The color is soft but provides a shot of true shimmery color. My favorites include Seashell and Copper Sand. And with 8 new shades you will want more then one so buy a Bobbi Brown 4 Pan palette ($10) and pick your favorite blushes and shadows to fill it. You won’t waste money with these great products.

4. I have a big date first date with a guy I am really interested in. What are some beauty items I should invest in to make sure this isn’t the first and LAST date?
Ahh, nothing like a first date with someone you actually like. The butterflies, the week spent getting ready, the awkward first kiss. Nothing like it. Well you will have to look your best. The one product that is a must is Nars Body Oil because it makes your skin irresistible ($59, saksfifthavenue.com). If you wear this from head to toe your date will be powerless against you. It is created with a unique blend of Monoi de Tahiti coconut oil, the delicate fragrance of the Tiare flower and a rich chocolate shimmer that will leave your skin glowing. And you can use it in your hair. Or during your pre-date bubble bath.

And don’t forget the most important factor on whether that first kiss will be your only kiss, your breath. Make sure you have your breath is minty fresh before you even pucker your lips. Try rinsing with Dentyne Ice™ Mouth Rinse ($3.49, drfresh.com or Target stores). This alcohol-free cool mouth wash leaves your mouth kissably clean without the “burn” associated with alcohol-based mouthwashes. Kills odor causing bacteria with flavors such as Arctic Chill or Shiver Mint. Swish this around a couple times and you will be ready for the first kiss when you open the door.

Q: With Summer coming I need a new fragrance. Do you have any suggestions?
I think it’s wonderful that you are looking for a new fragrance for the shift in seasons. I believe a women’s fragrance is the first way she can make an impression. And that impression is lasting so you always want to find a defining fragrance that really captures who you are. This summer there are two recommendations for you. The first is Kathy Hilton’s My Secret Eau De Parfum ($31.95, fragranceshop.com). This is a light, clean, floral fragrance that really captures the essence of summer with notes of mandarin, white freesia, peony flower, roses, star jasmine and apricot leaf. It is warm, intimate yet crisp and fresh. You can’t go wrong with this scent. And the heart shape bottle is super cute.

The second one is Alien Eau Luminescente by Thierry Mugler ($75, bloomingdales.com). This limited edition fragrance concentrates all the benefits of sunlight for an energizing , illuminating and comforting aura. The warm scent combines sparkling mandarin blends with exotic Ti -are flower and white amber. Together these scents form a hypnotic and magnetic fragrance experience. And this bottle is another one of my favorites. It looks like it was cut from raw stone and is a flamboyant, golden Orange color. Beautiful.

Q: The warm weather has rolled in and it’s time to break out the strappy heels. I love the look of super high sexy heels but they always hurt my feet or make them look terrible. Do you have any suggestions on what I could do to spare myself the pain? I don’t know anyone who hasn’t suffered to wear a fabulous pair of shoes. For a while I was to a point where I believed a shoe wasn’t fabulous unless it hurt my feet. No pain, no shoe gain right? Wrong. There are some great products on the market that will now keep you looking fabulous in your hottest show by making you feel fabulous in your shoes.

Dainty Footings ($6.95-$12.95, daintyfootings.com) are a dream for those of us who love the look of designer heels but can’t stand the the pressure on joints and the pain that those heels cause us. Dainty Footings are designer shoe Cushions that uses a special material called PORON to help provide maximum shock absorption. PORON is an open cell material that allows heat and moisture to dissipate quickly and keeps feet comfortable.They have a selection of different products that include Heel Liners, Ball-of-Foot Cushions, Heel Cushions and Revie Insoles.

Airplus for Her is a comprehensive line of foot care products designed just for women. They give you the chance to feel comfortable in your luxurious shoes, which up until now you might of thought was impossible to do. The line contains everything you can think of to revitalize your feet from toes to ankle. Including Gel Heel Cups, Love My Straps, Orthodox Arch Support, Apara Slingies and Steppies. ($2.80-$7.99, Major chain and drugstores nationwide). You will never walk in your heels, strappy sandals, pumps or boots the same. In fact you will wonder how you walked in them for that long with out these products.

Q: I have used every toothpaste or beauty product that promises “White Teeth”. I am wondering with all this stuff on the market if there are any products that really work to whiten teeth? A white smile does a lot of things. It can make you look younger. Make your skin appear brighter. It can help you get a job. It can help you get that second date. So it’s no surprise that the market is flooded with teeth whiteners and bleachers. But with so many products consumers can get overwhelmed. I have helped by narrowing your search down for you to two products that really work.

The first is the iWHITE Teeth Whitening Kit ($44.99, iwhitesmile.com). The kit delivers fast and effective results with their breaktrough at home teeth whitening technology. IWHITE Teeth Whitening kit contains several bleaching foam strips and mouth tray that activates the strips with pulses of neon Electroluminescent energy. This energy is directed through the molecules of matter of the whitening gel. Now it is really high tech but all you have to know is that after a few safe treatments you are left with impossibly white teeth.

The second is Arm & Hammer Whitening Booster ($4.99, Mass Food and Drug chains nationwide). This product brightens your smile quickly and without any extra steps. You just put some of this peroxide gel on top of your toothbrush every time you brush and your left a noticeably whiter smile. It actually contains 2X more whitening than than the leading whitening strip and is enamel safe. It’s the easiest, cheapest and most convenient way to really whiten your teeth.

Q: Summer racks havoc on my skin. What moisturizers, cleansers and potions can I use to keep my healthy spring skin?
The summer heat and humidity can do a real number on your skin. Not to mention the suns harmful UV rays. The first thing is that you want to make sure your always protected with a protective SPF lotion. Hawaiian Tropic makes a great line, including a Ozone Ultimate SPF 80that is oil free and non greasy ($10.99, drugstore.com).

But when you are in the comfort of your living room and your trying to renew that tired skin use Darphin Aromatic Renewing Balm ($75, darphin.com). This overnight solution for dry skin, soothes, relieves tightness and improves skins suppleness stolen by the humidity and the sun. Vitamin E works to protect the complexion from environmental factors and the essential oils blend revitalizes skin. Leaving skin protected, nourished and glowing. Can use as a spot treatment, a weekly deep condition treatment for the skin or as a over night treatment during the summer.

To brighten and revitalize dehydrated skin use La Prairie Advanced Marine Biology Tonic ($95, laprairie.com). It is a treatment lotion that maximizes the biological activity of the active ingredients, vitamins and oxygen carrier layers, preventing premature oxidation. It contains Vitamins E,A and C to fight against skin damage caused by free radicals. The tonic also relieves and helps inhibit the appearance of redness and information as it soothes and calms. And it is formulated with Sea Water, naturally rich in minerals, to improve hydration. A great soothing tonic that will keep your skin healthy all the way through summer.

Q: I am super excited about my annual summer trip. But not excited about how dry my hair ends looks by the time I make it home. Do you have products that will help get it looking healthy during my trip? During the summer our hair usually takes a beating. Between chlorinated pools, salt water, the sun, humidity and lots of pulled back styles your hair is prone to dryness and breaking. The trick is to keep hair conditioned and protected with a penetrating product. Dr. Miracles created a prefect ready-to-go anywhere Tingling Intensive Deep Conditioning Treatment ($1.59, drmiracles.com). This simple, one step product combats breakage and slow growth wile revitalizing hair’s natural shine and beauty. The conditioner has a special formula that tingles as it penetrates deep into the hair follicle and treats the scalp. Just throw the portable package of conditioner in your luggage and your ready to go.

Q: I am tired of my go to lip-gloss. I want something fresh and new. What lip gloss would your recommend to me to get out of my lipgloss rut?
I love lip gloss so you have came to the right place. Two of my favorite glosses to join the ranks in my makeup bag are Tarte Double Dose Berry Boost & Gloss and Napoleon Perdis DeVine Goddess Lipgloss. Tarte’s Double Dose Berry Boost & Gloss ($21, sephora.com) is a high shine color packed gloss with and added t5 super fruit complex. The fruit complex is a proprietary blend of the five most active super fruits. With each swipe of the gloss you get both beauty and treatment. The inner part of the gloss is a concentrated pigment that mixes with the outer high shine gloss. You are left with a shiny rich color that helps rejuvenate and moisturize your lips. Comes in 4 great colors. Beautiful.

Napoleon Perdis DeVine Goddess Lipgloss ($25, napoleonperdis.com) is another favorite. The lush gloss comes in two seductive shades that live you looking like a real movie star. Marilyn is a head turning iridescent pearl that has va-va-voom. And Muse is a soft, coral colored gloss that screams classic beauty. They both contain Vitamin E to heal lips and marine Collagen to repair lips. I love the light texture and sparkly color.

Q: Last summer I got bumps on my bikini line and underarms when I shaved. How do I avoid the bumps this summer? First make sure you are shaving skin that it’s not dry or irritated. You want to shave soft, wet, fully moisturized skin. Use a sharp clean razor every time you shave. And finally try one of the several anti bump products on the market now. I came across a great one not to long ago. Whish Beauty Flawless Bump Fighter ($22.50, whishbody.com). It ensures a smooth bump free shave and can be used on legs, bikini line and underarm areas. Flawless Bump Fighter combines clinically-proven, natural active ingredients that not only prevent bumps and ingrown hair but also inhibit future hair growth. The result is soft, touchable skin for longer periods of time than any shave you have ever had before. Plus it smells fresh and clean.

Q: There are a ton of makeup palettes out now and I find it overwhelming. Which one would you recommend for the summer? Women are busier then ever and we want are favorite must have items in a convenient easy to use and carry makeup palette. Cosmetic companies have taken note and almost every line has a palette out. But not all palettes are created equally. My favorite this summer is Sugar Cosmetics Round the Clock ($42, sugarcosmetics.com). This makeup palette combines the best hues that work in both in the sunlight and moonlight. The palette has an extra-large mirror and six must have beauty products that include a concealer, brightener, shadows bronzer and a moisturizing lip gloss. The colors work really well together and just with the six products you can create several looks for day and for evening. Round the clock.

Q: What fragrances are hot right now? I have two fragrances to recommend and they couldn’t be any different. One evokes fields of magical flowers and the other is a wild fruity floral. Bath and Body Works Enchanted Orchid ($19, bathandbodyworks.com) is the first fragrance and it is the essence of spring with its delicate scent. With every spritz you are transported to a exotic field of Orchids. The smell is silky, smooth, creamy and sensual. With notes of pink grapefruit, water lily, crisp apple, vanilla Orchid, Violet petals and creamy amber, this fragrance is warm, lush and tropical at the same time. Not overpowering yet not timid it strikes just the right balance.

The other is Ed Hardy Perfume for Women ($55, amazon.com). Created by the famous designer Christian Audigier this fragrance comes in a rock n roll package that lets you know that this is a different type of fragrance. And once you smell this delicious scent your realize just how original it is. The fragrance is a fruity floral scent with notes of apple soufflé, mango, wild strawberry, rudy red grapefruit, freesia petals, watery muguet, linden blossom, warm amber, musk, tonka bean and vanilla pudding. Truly unique and utterly surprising.

Sets:
bareMinerals Get Started: Eyes, Cheeks, Lips - Tan-To-Deep ($49, bareescentuals.com) An eight-piece bareMinerals color collection customized for tan to deep complexions. The kit comes complete with shades perfect for the spring. It also includes expert brushes designed to help you achieve a flawless look. The colors will perfectly complement your complexion and bring out the natural beauty of eyes, cheeks and lips. The collection includes bareMinerals Brilliant Eyecolor in two shades, Onyx Liner Shadow, Crushed Velvet Blush, Brandi Mini Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish, Double-Ended Quick Color and Crease Brush, Heavenly Liner Brush, and Tapered Blush Brush. A great deal for a fabulous collection.

Eyes:
Traceur Design Illuminating Long-Lasting Eyeliner Ray of Purple Light Soft Brush ($20, lancome-usa.com) An eyeliner like you have never seen before. The photonic shade is a new technology pigment. The eyeliners iridescent color, like that found on a butterfly’s wing, is the result of an optical phenomenon where hues of an object change color based on light interference and viewing angles. Your eyes will sparkle and gleam at every angle. Absolutely beautiful. And it comes complete with a precise lining brush for natural, mistake-proof application.

Clarins Double Fix Mascara ($20, clarins.com) If Spring showers worry you since your favorite mascara isn’t waterproof this product is a must have. This transparent fixing gel creates a waterproof seal for lashes. And if that wasn’t enough — it doubles as a brow fixer styling and holding them in place.

theBalm Overshadow ($14, sephora.com) 100% pure mineral pigments in wearable colors that you layer over your daytime shadow to amp it up for nighttime fun. And with cute names like Work is Overrated (pink champagne), No Money, No Honey (gold), You Buy, I’ll Fly (copper) and If You’re Rich, I’m Single (mauve/pewter) you are sure to find a color to suit your personality.

M.A.C. Heatherette Glitter ($19.50, maccosmetics.com) This shimmery glitter will transform you in an instant. M·A·C Glitter can be applied directly to the skin or combined with your winter makeup to create high-level glitter and sparkle effects on all areas of the face, skin and hair. Choose from a 3-D Silver or Reflects Gold perfect for springs metallic looks.

Benefit Cosmetics Erase Paste ($26, benefitcosmetics.com) No one can argue that it was a long winter and for some of us this winter took its toll. Well don’t let signs of stress and fatigue ruin your spring. Use the innovative Erase Paste to instantly brighten and camouflage imperfections on your face. Super concentrated, very creamy and exceptionally blendable. Comes in three neutral shades.

Bed Head Cyberoptics Eyeshadow Duo ($14 for one, $28 for both, tigihaircare.com) Take a spring break without ever living your bathroom with this beautiful duo of eyeshadows. Transform your boring land locked look to a sexy beachy look. This set of two shadow create eyes thatshimmer with beachy warm tones. Leaves lids looking bronzey and shimmery. Beautiful.

Maestro Giorgio Armani Eyeshadow ($26.00, www.giorgioarmanibeauty.com) This silky eyeshadow goes on smooth and delivers sophisticated beautiful color. Bold and sheer at the same time, this formula contains pure silk-like powders that go on smooth. The texture is lightweight and it glides easily across eyelids. Choose between three texture’s: silk, satin and matte. And with nineteen color options to mix and match you are sure to find the perfect color for your new spring look.

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Eyeshadow ($22, bobbibrown.com) Spring should be about being out and having a great time with great people. Who has time to worry about makeup when the weather is nice. This beautiful shadow can be applied with your fingers. And the long-wearing shadow will stay on all day without creasing. Just put it on and forgot about it. Effortless beauty.

Lips:
Prescriptives Lip Strips Techno Cool/Warm ($29.50, prescriptives.com) This slick compact comes packed with five complementary gloss shades. Each compact contains shades in cream, shimmer and sparkle finishes so that you can mix and match the colors. Goes on really smooth and creamy. Leaves lips feeling moisturized and conditioned. Perfect for spring lips as you head outside to enjoy the weather.

Nars Greek Holiday Lip gloss ($24, nars.com) If you need a holiday after a long winter but don’t have the money to leave home. Here is the next best thing. Buy this fabulous lip gloss from Nars. This extremely wearable shimmering pink shade packs some serious shine and just enough sexy color. Wear it alone or put on over your favorite lipstick. Great for all skin tones.

Wet N’ Wild Beauty Benefits Dual Effects Lip Pencil ($5.99, Wal-Mart) Lips are going to be a big focus this spring. Get your lips looking their best with this double sided lip pencil that has conditioning lumping balm on one side and a creamy-rich liner pencil on the other. Lips will be left fuller and softer with great long lasting color. All in one convenient slick lip pencil.

Pop Beauty Lid Neon ($22, sephora.com) Color is back and at its best this spring. Follow the trend with this super bright and funky palette of eyeshadows. Bright lid shades come with an applicator and how to instructions in this fun compact. Mix and match and create a look that is all your own. Super funky.

Duwop Lip Lingo Palette ($32, duwop.com) Do you ever wish your lipstick had a little more sparkle? Or your gloss had a little more shine? Well with this sleek lip palette you no longer have to wish. That’s because it comes with a base color lipstick and four different ways to top it, each crating a different effect. You can mix and match or wear each color by itself allowing to create the perfect shade to fit the day or to fit the season..

The Rest of the Face:
Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Bronzing Pearls ($35, esteelauder.com) Bring an instant veil of warm brilliance to skin with these new limited edition Bronzing Pearls. They combine air0light silky powder technology with a special blend of film formers and lightweight oils to create an emollient powder that is both creamy and satin-like. They leave a natural-looking, sheer, buildable bronze color to any skin that you apply it to.

Cargo Blu_Ray High Definition Mattifier ($24, sephora.com) This mattifier was created for use with high-definition film. But even if your not going to be on set of your favorite tv show anytime soon it is still perfect to use every day to create flawless skin. Blu_Ray is a luxurious, silky liquid skin mattifier that can be applied either over or under makeup to refine pores, minimize lines, and conditions skin for a polished look. Plus the oil-free formula refines the appearance of the pores and helps control oil and shine throughout the day. All you need now is a camera to follow you around all day.

Max Factor Colorgenius Pressed Powder($8.49, Drugstores Nationwide) During the spring and summer you don’t want your makeup to way you down. Yet you still crave full coverage from your foundation. ColorGenius has the solution. This ingenious pressed powder uses mineral ingredients to help give skin a polished finish. The ultra-fine pigments of the tri-colored pressed powder allow skin to breathe while helping create flawless complexions, ideal for most skin types. And perfect for spring.

Lauren Hutton Aqua Elements Water Mineral Foundation ($30, laurenhutton.com) Mineral makeup is a hot trend again this spring. With that in mind Lauren Hutton brings you this unique water-mineral based formula that not only provides you coverage but also hydrates skin with healthy stone mineral elements. It doesn’t clog pores, is suitable for all skin types and provides natural sunscreen protection. Plus it is housed in a convienent push-style brush which makes applications effortless and mess free. Perfect to throw in your spring clutch.

La Mer SPF 18 Fluid Tint ($65, lamer.com) For spring you want to keep your skin healthy and your foundation light. Nothing does this better then La Mer’s amazing Fluid Tint. The formula combines La Mer’s famous skincare with sunscreen and a subtle tint. With SPF 18 it gives skin protection from the sun while providing it with a sun-kissed glow. This light weight formula absorbs into skin right away leaving skin instantly hydrated and glowing. A must have product.

Lorac Breakthrough Performance Foundation ($38, lorac.com)- An Oil-Free Anti-Aging Foundation with SPF 14 that combines pre-aging, anti-aging, hydrating, and smoothing ingredients along with antioxidants to help skin appear youthful, rejuvenated and radiant. Will have your skin looking and feeling fabulous for the spring. Perfect for all ages and skin types and comes in 7 Breakthrough Shades, so go ahead and find your pefect shade.

Mally Perfecting Blush ($25, qvc.com) Warm your cheeks this spring with this glowing soft blush. Just a sweep of this blush will leave cheeks with natural flush of color and radiance. The self-dispensing dabber– that is built in applies just the right amount of powder so that the look is never overdone.

Hair:
Metropolis S-Nano Ionic Ceramic Brushes ($9.95-$19.95, metropolistechnology.com). This line of brushes will truly revitalize your hair just in time for spring. Each brush is coated with a Silver Nano Ionic coating that helps them provide better performance and infuses them with anti-bacterial sanitizing properties. The line includes Thermal and Boar Brushes and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Got2b Smooth Operator Smoothing Lustre Lotion ($7.99, Drugstores Nationwide) Time to undo your tired winter ponytail and let your hair down.This decadent hair lotions shapes, smooths, controls fly aways and imparts an amazing weightless luster and softness without weighting hair down. It also shields your precious locks from heat styling and harmful UV rays.

im Unruly Hair Beware ($30, studioim.com) Nothing can ruin your day faster then your hair which looked great when you left the house turning unruly by the time you get to your destination. And you know with unpredictable spring weather you have to be prepared for such situations. This set is the perfect solution for unruly hair. It contains a ToughTread Head Wrap - hidden tread holds hair back and gives a sleek finish, Active Hold Hair Elastics - never adjust a ponytail again, Flex Hold Shoe Laces - stay tied, stretch and flex with your foot, Medium Sport Clips - fashionable in the hair and holds a firm grip and Secure Hold Head Wraps - holds back fly aways, wispies and bangs. All in a cute complimentary I|m gift bag. Perfect for your car, computer bag or your clutch.

Citre Shine Highly Laminating Anti-Frizz Serum ($3.99, Drug, Mass and Food Stores Nationwide) With all the rain and thunder storms in the spring there is bound to be some really bad frizzy hair days. Well that doesn’t have to be the case if you use this serum. With a blend of vitamins, silicon’s and UV Protection this serum effectively protects hair from thermal styling damage and environmental stress. It leaves the frizz tamed and it treats split ends.

Cristophe Beverly Hills Curl Defining Hair Care Line ($2.99-$8.99, cvs.com) Between the spring shower storms and muggy weather those with curls have a hard time in the spring. Well that was until Cristophe, the wold renowned celebrity hairstylist and salon owner introduced his new Curl Defining line exclusively to CVS customers. His unique line of products improves the natural texture of curly or wavy hair, infusing the hair with shine and definition. The perfect solution for curly hair in stormy weather. The line includes a Curl Defining Shampoo, Conditioner and Contour Crème and is available exclusively at CVS.

Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme ($7.99, walgreens.com) If this spring you are itching to change the color of your hair or if you just want to add some highlights make sure you grab this super nourishing hair color creme. It provides rich, long-lasting color while nourishing the hair with avocado conditioner. The avocado nourishes hair and protects against dryness, locking in color and moisture to keep your color rich and health-looking and leaves it feeling unbelievably soft. Color penetrates deep and delivers rich true color. And there is a range of colors making it easy to find a color that suits your style.

Q: I bought my first home and I plan to move in at the beginning of Spring. They are remodeling it now and I want my house to smell like a home the day I move in and not a work zone. What is the perfect candle I should buy to do this? You want a light scent that is fresh and clean, not overpowering or heavy. Verde Candle by Apothia Aromatics ($46, apothia.com) might just be the perfect candle for you this spring. The Verde candle embraces bright cilantro, earthy tomato leaf, a zesty squeeze of lime and a hint of chili peeper. When the candle is burning, the sparkling freshness energizes the senses as the sexy fragrance entices both mind and body. Long after you blow the candle out the pure fragrance will linger around delighting your senses. Great fragrance for the Spring.

Q: It gets pretty hot in the Spring where I live and by the end of the day my makeup looks terrible. Is there anything I can do to keep it looking fresh? Humidity and heat can ruin makeup in an instant. A perfect fix to avoid a spring time melt down is Clarins Fix’ Make-Up ($25, clarins.com). This light pink mist sets make-up in place and leaves it looking fresh in any climate. You just spray onto skin after you have done your makeup and it leaves an invisible, ultra-resistant veil. And you can spray the mist throughout the day to boost your make-up and mood when needed. Truly refreshing and revitalizing. A must have for the spring and summer.

Q: In the spring I usually can’t wait to put on my miniskirt and show off my legs. In the last few years I have started to develop some stretch marks and I am really self conscious about them. Is there anything I can use to cover them up?
Most women I know have some imperfection whether it be blemishes, keloids or stretch marks they want to cover up. And you can find countless number of products that will conceal imperfections if they are on your face. The problem is what if your trying to cover an imperfection on your body. In the past unless you wanted to use a whole stick of concealer and have it smudged off 20 minutes later then you were out of luck. But Covermark, the global leader in concealment cosmetics created a product specifically made to conceal imperfections on your leg and body. Covermark Leg Magic SPF 16 ($16,covermarkusa.com) legendary flaw-fighting formula conceals unsightly imperfections such as varicose veins, sudden stretch marks, blemishes, bruises, keloids and uneven skin tone. The company just updated their shade range so there is a color to suit all skin tones. Plus it protects the skin on the legs with SPF16. So go ahead grab a tube and grab your mini skirt.

Q: It was a long Winter and my feet aren’t ready for Spring sandals and flip flops. Is there any product that will get my feet ready fast? Spring is definitely the start of the pedicure season. To wear Spring’s sexiest sandals and heels your feet have to look fabulous. Unfortunately, during the winter heels and toes can lose moisture and leave you with severely dry skin. The secret to getting feet babysoft in an instant is PedEgg ($10, pedegg.com). The Pedegg is the ultimate foot file. It has precision micro-files that gently remove calluses and dead skin to reveal healthy soft skin. Two high quality emery buffing pads are included for the ultimate finishing touch for your feet. And PedEgg has been designed to collect all the skin shavings in a convenient storage compartment. Perfect to throw in a bag and travel with so that your never left without the smooth feet.

If you would like to ask Nicole a beauty question please email her at nmitsch@clutchmagazine.com.

Nails
Shimmery Shades Lippman Collection ($15, lippmanncollection.com) Winter was all about dark dramatic nails. Now that spring is rolling around its time to peel that heavy nail polish off and step out with soft pretty, yet punky pink nails. Manicurist to the stars, Deborah Lippmann brings two hot polishes for the spring. The new shades are sheer yet vibrant and leave nails with a shimmery finish. Choose between “Dream a Little dream of Me”, a shimmery cupcake frosting pink or “Don’t Call Me Baby” - a sparkling watermelon pink.

Jillian Dempsey for Avon Nailwear Nail Enamel ($4.50, avon.com) Your spring look is not complete without a fresh stunning manicure. Punch up your normal manicure with some fresh new shades from Avon’s long-lasting nail enamel. Shades include Cloud 9, Cantaloupe, Nude Attitude and Punch. Perfect for a spring time look.

Fragrances:
Bath and Body Works Luxuries Enchanted Orchid Eau De Toilette ($19, bathandbodyworks.com) The scent of spring! This crisp, alluring and exotic scent was inspired by the believable, dynamic texture of fresh calypso orchid petals. Enchanted Orchid has notes of crisp apple, pink grapefruit, calypso orchid, vanilla orchid and fresh gardenia. Just one scent and you will see why this fragrance is so special. The fragrance is purely spring magic.

Burberry Burberry The Beat Perfume ($50, bloomingdales.com) A fun and unexpected scent that will redefine your idea of what a signature fragrance is supposed to be. Sexy, feminine and vibrant all describe this sparkling floral woody fragrance. Perfect for spring with notes of mandarin, Ceylon tea, bluebell and iris. This fresh new fragrance from Burberry combines true style, sensuality and energy. This spring find a new outlook with this new fragrance.

Skin Care:
Darphin 8 Flower Nectar ($150, darphin.com) Darphin uses the latest discoveries in modern aromatherapy to provide the skin with added vital energy, light and harmony with this amazing product. It reveals a youthful radiance and leaves skin looking revived. A skin experience like no other.

Peter Thomas Roth Mega Rich Intensive Anti-Aging Cellular Moisture Masque ($60, peterthomasroth.com) A deep penetrating masque that smooths and hydrates skin for a more youthful appearance instantly. The masques technically advanced formulation boosts radiance and moisture levels, reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, renews and repairs dry, damaged skin and soothes and clams the skin. Packed with nourishing ingredients like sweet almond oil, konjac mannan, aloe vera and vitamins A, C and E, the masque will leave skin soft, smooth and hydrated. Perfect for a fresh new spring look.

AminoGenesis Cocoon Total Body Emollient ($44, aminogenesis.com) Nourish and hydrate dry winter skin from head to toe with this powerful 17 amino acid base formula. The amino acids were purified and blended to create a stable, cohesive, non-greasy formula that won’t break down over time. The lotion penetrates deeply and rapidly leaving behind nothing but soft, touchable, hydrated skin.

Skinceuticals AOX BODY TREATMENT ($85, skinceuticals.com) After one use of this body treatment you will be totally hooked. This rich treatment is formulated to moisturize hydrated areas, protect against damaging free radicals and lightly exfoliate dead skin cells. It leaves tired, dull skin invigorated, rejuvenated and hydrated. All you have to do is massage the treatment into any dehydrated areas of your skin from head to toe and let it do its magic. Works great for all skin types.

Solerra Sunless Tanning Mitt ($3.99, solerratan.com) The perfect way to quickly exfoliate your body from top to bottom and everything in between. Use the mit as an all over Body-Buff to exfoliate dead skin and replenish vital moisture. Get radiant skin by sliding the mitt and exfoliate any spot that might be rough or dry. Leaves skin glowing and polished.

Bath Products:
Klean Bath + Body Peppermint Pattie Pedi Kit ($55, kleanbathandbody.com) If you truly want to treat yourself this spring then you will get this yummy pedicure kit for your feet. Packed full with decadent chocolaty, peppermint treats for your feet that will have your feet feeling downright sinful. The kit includes a Devil Made Me Do It chocolate sugar polish, a Peppermint Dream Whipped Shea Body Butter,a Peppermint Bath Syrup, a Peppermint Dream KLEAN Mist, a pumice stone, toe separators and a pair of socks to put on after you have applied our super moisturizing body butter. Trust me your feet will thank you. Also great as a gift.

Dial Yogurt Body Wash ($4.99, Drugstores Nationwide) Yogurt based skincare products and body washes are already a popular trend in Europe. The U.S. catches up with this yummy body wash. Dial Yogurt Body Wash contains yogurt protein to help nourish skin and keep it feeling soft, smooth and healthy. The natural yogurt protein also helps to soothe and protect skin from dehydration. Skin will be left smelling delicious and feeling silky-smooth.

LaLicious Sugar Souffle Scrub ($32, lalicious.com) This spring brighten your dull winter skin with this all natural eco-friendly scrub. This heavenly scrub combines ingredients that sound like they come straight out of a cookbook. Yummy ingredients like Coconut, Almond and Pure Cane Sugar. The scrub exfoliates, conditions and moisturizes skin. Leaving skin absolutely glowing!!

Ricky’s Care All Natural Bamboo Collection ($7.99-$15.99, rickys.com) This spring it is all about natural, green, environmentally friendly products. Ricky’s didn’t just jump on this trend they have been supporting some of the best natural brands since 1989. Some of the great natural products they carry are included in this collection. It includes a Bamboo Bath Sponge, Hair & Body Towel, Bath Strap and Bath Mitt. All natural bamboo is known for its soft feel and its natural antibiotic proprieties.Bamboo is good for you and good for the planet.

True Blue Spa Self Meditating Body Butter with Rice Bran Oil & Green Tea ($15.00, bathandbodyworks.com) Treat your skin this season with a healthy dose of this heavenly therapeutic body butter that hydrates extremely dry skin and protects against environmental damage. A deeply hydrating butter that leaves you in a state of peace. Use it to massage into skin everyday after a shower or bath. Your skin will never look or feel better.

Sunscreens:
Zia Natural Skin Basics Daily Moisture Screen SPF 15 ($20.95, zianatural.com) After a long winter you probably want to head out in the sun this spring. Make sure you slather on some of this moisturizer to protect skin from UVA an UVB damage. Daily Moisture’s Screen also rejuvenates and soothes dry skin while defending against environmental distress and irritation. As a plus the packaging is created with windmill power,50% post-consumer waste and printed with soy ink.

SkinCeuticals Active UV Defense Sunscreen Cream SPF 15 ($29, skinceuticals.com) Keep skin protected in all situations with this water sweat resistant daily sunscreen cream. This cream provides advanced UVA protection in a lightweight weight formula that works well for active individuals. Will protect skin even after exposure to water or sweat. Protects against photoaging and is perfect to wear under makeup.

Q: I have lost some weight since the New Year and all of a sudden I have cheekbones! I have no idea what to do with them, being that it’s been so long since I have seen them. Help?
Congrats on the weight loss! In honor of your hard work you deserve to look your very best so you should definitely highlight those fabulous cheekbones. But you have to be careful with how you apply makeup to your cheeks so that you don’t end up looking overdone. One of the best product for cheeks that I have come across is Bare Escentuals Tutorials - Lesson 1: Get Cheeky ($34, bareescentuals.com). This amazing kit has everything you need to achieve perfectly sculpted and flawless cheeks. And best of all it comes with instructions on how to achieve the perfect cheek for your face shape. Included in the set is Lovely Blush and Pure Radiance All Over Face Color perfect for every skin tone and complexion. Honestly achieving movie star worthy cheeks has never been this easy.

Q: My ten year high school reunion is three months away and I want to look better than everyone else. What can I do in that short amount of time to look ten years younger?
Well you have two options. One option involves a lot of money, pain and considerable downtime. The other option is painless, relatively inexpensive and takes about five seconds every morning. Option one is a face lift. Option two is Clarins Younger Longer Balm ($98, bloomingdales.com). With neurocosmetic technology and rare concentrated botanicals this balm leaves skin feeling and acting years younger. Each day the balm works to help skin regain the tone, density and resistance of its youth. And it protects it from further damage from the environment and free radicals. Personally I would go with the Younger Longer Balm, but that’s just me.

Q: The harsh weather this winter season has left my lips dry and chapped. What is the best product to get my lips soft as the weather warms up?
Protecting your lips from the worst weather throws is an important step in your daily beauty routine throughout the year. But in the dry cold weather of the winter months protecting your lips becomes even more crucial. And La Roche-Posay Nutritic Lips is a great way to help you do that ($12, laroche-posay.com) Nutritic Lips is a new intensive lip treatment formulated to heal severely dry, dehydrated lips and restore moisture. It goes on smooth and returns lips back to their optimal health in no time. Before you know it you will have soft moisturized lips and it will be time to pull out your shorts.

Q: I find it hard to give a beauty product as a gift because you never know what color in makeup or scent in fragrance people are going to like. Is there any beauty item that is a sure bet for a gift?
I wish my Aunt Shelia would ask this question because every year for Christmas I get the same bright red lipstick. While I appreciate the thought behind the gift there is no way that waxy lipstick will touch my lips. So I now have eight bright red new unused lipsticks sitting under my vanity in the bathroom.

I would go with a simple gift that could be used by most people. Something that everyone could love, like a great lotion or body wash. Philosophy makes the best 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath on the market. They have a sweet gift set that will let someone special know you care. The Just Because set is the perfect gift for everyone ($30, sephora.com). Philosophy captured the decadent scent of white chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate and stored them in this adorable gift box. A decedent treat for someone you love. And much more user friendly than a bright red lipstick.

In this season of hot political debates and crucial primaries. We figured we should hold a primary of our own. A primary for the ultimate skincare candidate. We have some strong candidates all vying to come out on top. The race is heated, the issues are being debated and now it’s every skincare product and face cream for itself. Here we have broken down the candidates, now it’s up to you. Who will win your vote?

Candidate One: Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth Crème ($250, esteelauder.com)
Party: Estee Lauder
Issues that it stands on: Runs the campaign on the believe that skin deserves to look as good as it did in it’s youth.
Global Minded: Combines cutting edge science with rare, precious ingredients from all over the world.
Three Core Benefits: Helps prolong youthful vitality, Helps preserve youthful smoothness and helps promote youthful tone. Looks toward the future with its exclusively engineered Youth Molecule that helps skin appear ageless.

Candidate Two: Lisa Hoffman Night and Day Skincare ($120 for 7 day pack, hsn.com)
Party: Lisa Hoffman
Issues that it stands on: (1) Reconceptualizing the idea of skincare by creating a collection with a week’s worth of ten cleansing, toning and moisturizing formulas. (2) Five for day and five for night, each in a disposable, resealable and ampule. (3) Believes people should be free of clutter and have a simplified daily routine. It’s a not just a skincare it’s a lifestyle choice.
Four Primary Attributes: The four P’s- Performance, Purity, Potency and Portability. The products in the collection work together to help rejuvenate and refresh the skin protect if from environmental damage and reduce the effects of aging.

Candidate Three: Hydra-Pure Radiance Renewal Serum ($95, mdskincare.com)
Party: MD Skincare
Issues that it stands on: (1) Believes heavy metals and impurities should be removed from skin. (2) Feels like it’s a skincare products duty to address and prevent skin discoloration due to both photo-aging and genetic aging caused by excessive melanin which dulls the skin. (3) Will use its Hydra-Pure Chelating Complex to remove impurities in tap water to help detoxify skin!

Candidate Four: Kinerase Brightening Anti-Aging System ($140, kinerase.com)
Party: Kinerase
Issues that it stands on: (1) Two-step system that includes Brightening Facial Serum and a
Concentrated Spot Treatment. (2) Both steps include the Brightening Complex that scientifically blends
seven active ingredients that work synergistically to brighten the skin for more radiant and perfectly even complexion. (3) Will leave all voters skin looking instantly energized, radiant, more youthful and beautiful.

Candidate Five: Lancôme Absolue Premium Replenishing Lotion ($110, lancome.com)
Party: Lancôme
Issues that it stands on: (1) Three Words: repair. intense moisture and clarity (2) Patented Lancôme innovation: Pro-Sylane helps restore essential moisture deep in skin’s surface, plumps skin, adds firmness and radiance.
Healthcare Issues: (1) Comes with SPF 15, great for all skin types, oil-free, non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic and dermatologist -tested. (2) Promises that within four weeks voters will see fine lines and wrinkles visibly reduced. Feel renewed firmness and elasticity. See revived clarity and even skin one.

Q: I have a big date night coming up. Are there some essential makeup products I should carry in my clutch?
I always tell women to carry versatile and multi-functional products in their purses. That way you have less to carry and you don’t have to dig through a bunch of products in your purse. Stila Cosmetics has two great new products that would be perfect for your date night.

First up is Stila’s Cherry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24, sephora.com). Housed in a berry red click pen the delicious cherry scented product could be applied to cheeks and lips. Providing an amazing burst of natural color. For the eyes Stila brings you the Contouring Trio ($38, sephora.com). This trio comes packed with a highlighting powder, a low-lighting powder and a neutral shimmer. Plus step-by-step instructions on how to contour cheeks, nose and eyes with the powders and six small LED lights around the mirror in the compact. Perfect for those quick touch ups in the dimly lit bathroom on your date.

Q: I am growing my hair out from a really damaging hairstyle I was wearing for years. Right now I am left with dry, course damaged hair. What products can I use to style my hair as I grow it out? Anybody who has ever had a really bad style or damaging color knows exactly how you feel. There are fortunately a lot of products on the market to help style dry or damaged hair while you work on getting your hair healthy. Not so much when I got that bad early 90’s cut back in the day. So consider yourself lucky.

L’Oreal Professionnel has a collection of products that provide texture transformation. The Texture Expert line has three products that work to tame coarse/rebellious textures. ($21-23, lorealprofessionnel.com). These products are tailored to calm and control distressed hair so that your styles radiate with elegance and refinement.

The Fluid Intense is a straitening serum with cuticle collapsing conditioners and straightening silicone to control defiant frizz. The Spirale Extreme is a curl defining crème that transforms frizzy hair
into buoyant curls with humidity defense and intense shine. And the Gelee Riche is an anti-frizz styling gel that leaves hair sleek and managed with dazzling shimmer and ultimate style flexibility. With choices like this there is no excuse not to have beautiful hair even after a hair disaster.

Q: I need a great gift for my boyfriend for Valentine’s Day. Any suggestions?
The easiest gift you can get a guy for Valentine’s Day is a gift set. Something that will leave them feeling and looking better but it doesn’t take a lot of time and effort to get. Carols Daughter has some great
looking sets that will make your man a happy guy. The Big Kahuna Gift Set For Men comes with a Big Kahuna Bar soap, a delicious Shea Soufflé for the body and The Big Kahuna Eau de Toilette, that leaves the body smelling cool and fresh, like a man should ($39.95, carolsdaughter.com). Or try the Fit for a King Set for Men which includes a Eucalyptus & Tea Tree Soap, Gordon’s Shaving Lotion, an unscented Hand & Body Jelly and Peppermint Foot Lotion, all set in a cigar box ($49.95, carolsdaughter.com). Either one will make for a perfect Valentines Day gift.

Q: I need a great scrub to flake off dry winter skin, but every scrub I get is either too harsh or to gentle. It seems like as some scrubs were made to scrub the tub you bath in and not the skin your trying to clean. They leave your skin irritated and sensitive. Other scrubs are so gentle they aren’t really effective. Well, Nyakio Kenyan Coffee & Sugar Body Scrub is a perfect scrub that is right in the middle ($42.50, honeyfig.com). The fine grinds of the Kenyan Coffee will gently exfoliates your skin. While the texture of the scrub allows for effective cleaning. It removes lifeless, dull skin and leaves it glowing and healthy. Perfect to give dry, flaky winter skin an instant perk.

Q: One of my resolutions this year is to lose weight. Are there beauty products that can help me look thinner before I get to my goal weight?

Good luck on your resolution. Remember the trick to looking your best is to feel your best. And self-love is not attached to a number on a scale. So no matter what size you are, invest in the idea that you’re beautiful. Now if you want to create the illusion of a slimmer, more beautiful you, there are a couple tricks. The first is to keep skin moisturized. Moisturized skin looks healthy. Then use a tinted moisturizer to even out the skin tone all over your body. Finally, use a bronzer to highlight your best features that you want others to focus on. Whether it’s the curve of your chest, you’re calf muscles or your fabulous cheekbones. And with everybody focused on how great your cheekbones are they might not notice you cheating on your resolution with a cupcake.

Q: What’s the best way to get my skin looking tiptop by the spring?

While we are in the grips of old man winter, now is the perfect time to think about beautiful spring skin. Get ready for spring skin by drinking lots of water, eating right and taking vitamins. You also want to invest in some serious skin care products like SkinFusion Micro-Technology Bio Active Mineral Power Brightening Lotion ($70, fusionbeauty.com) This brightening lotion delivers powerful skin rejuvenation, correcting complexion imperfections to rescue, renew, and dramatically improve skin. Leaving you with radiant healthy skin. Start now and your skin should be fabulous by the time it’s time to move your winter coat to the back of the closet.

Q: I recently broke up with my boyfriend of three years. I am done mourning for that relationship and am ready to start going out after work. Do you have some makeup that I can do at work after I am done for the day and headed out for the night?

Almost every cosmetics line out today has a palette of some sort. Makeup palettes are much easier than carrying a bunch of makeup around. One of the best palettes I have come across is the pop Beauty Day to Play Kit ($42, sephora.com). This adorable kit contains a brush and 24 vibrant eye colors that are perfect from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Now, you have no excuse to go out there and have a good time!

Q: I made some positive changes in my life last year, and I am feeling really good about myself. I want my inner glow to show on the outside. What are some products that will leave me glowing?

Congratulations on the changes you have made! Nothing is more beautiful than letting happiness shine through. But, if you want a little added glow on the outside nothing beats Artificial Light Luminizing Lotion ($30, smashbox.com). This all over face powder gives your skin a brilliant glow without looking overdone. You could also use Smashbox’s Smashing Skin Tint ($28, smashbox.com), which provides subtle color that makes you appear to be lit from within. Either option should give a great glow that will help you and the world see your inner glow.