.:: CybeleSays ::.

It's All In The Stick

We’re pretty fascinated with packaging and always pay special attention to it when trying out a product as presentation is everything. A few years ago, I remember being quite taken with this kind of self-dispensing brush that SUSAN POSNiCK’s Colorflo Mineral Foundation ($64 @ beauty.com) comes in. I can’t recall the first one I used but it is great for on the go. And this one is also refillable, which I never knew they could be. Or maybe just hers is? At first, I couldn’t quite figure out how to refill it but I found it. The bottom unscrews and it’s easy to get powder inside. Halleluiah! It comes in 15 different shades (even those with a really dark skin tones) and even a shimmer and a bronzer. So at least pick one of these up and you can change the powder out as needed. Now if they just sold refills for the brush part, I could use this for the rest of my makeup wearing life.

Make Time To Smile More

It’s nice to treat yourself when you are out of town on a trip. One way is to take a toothpaste from GoSMiLE’s 5 Senses Toothpaste Kit ($25 @ sephora.com) on the plane. Each box contains 5 different 1oz flavors of whitening fluoride toothpaste (and a travel toothbrush) that contain aromatherapy essential oils. So which will you be in the mood for? Mango Paradise Smile, Ginger Cookie Smile, Lemonade Smile, Peppermint Smile, which we love last Christmas, and Aloha Tropical Smile.

Another suggestion - next time you have company in town, put a few of these in the guest’s bathroom.

The 6" Powerhouse

Let’s talk tools. This is a topic I like and know quite well. I recently tried T-PRO’s Slik Stik Mini ($19.99 @ amazon.com) with tourmaline nano ceramic technology. This little straightening iron heats up to 400 degrees in three minutes. It even comes with a glove to protect your hand from the heat and a storage pouch. How does it work? Flawlessly. It straightens just as well as its big sister but what I like most about is that it’s really light and easy to maneuver. I love this baby! As far as hair types it will work well on, it gets pretty hot so those with thick or curly hair will probably fair well with this one. Since there is no way to control how hot it gets, you might want to opt out of this one if you have fine hair.

Quick Pick Face

A favorite new face finisher-offer this spring is CLiNiQUE’s Blended Face Powder and Brush ($18.50 @ nordstrom.com) in new Invisible Blend. It helps set makeup and the travel brush is totally totable. And because the brush has a cap on it, they even recommend loading one application into the brush and take it with you in your evening purse for a "out on the town" touch up.

Waiting For The Sun

Another reason I am totally cut out for the job of Cybelesays is that I can pretty much put anything on my face without adverse reactions. The only time I was given a problem was with a MAC Face Mask. Remember when they had one in their collection a few years ago? It turned my face red as in burned it! In the trash that one went. When it comes to any other product, I am usually fine when it comes to trying them, except sunscreens. The area around my eyes seems very sensitive to sunscreens so when I test them out, no burning is part of what makes a good one. One in this totally non-irritating category is AZUR Moisturizer and Anti-Aging Crème for Face & Eyes ($30/1.7oz for SPF 30 and $34/1.7oz for SPF 40 @  azurskin.com). This one has a long list of haves and have nots: tearless, natural zinc oxide, titanium dionxide, aloe vera, PABA-free, paraben-free, vitamins E, A and C, oil-free, and overall hypoallergenic. And the overall look? Non-cakey or white (from the zinc oxide). And they even sell travel sizes! Big recommendation.

In The Eyes Of Nature

It’s true. Packaging is so important when it comes to any beauty product. That’s why I don’t understand why some companies skimp on this part. There are many lines, especially in makeup, that I’m sure I’m missing simply because the packaging isn’t appealing or their line comes in the same containers we’ve seen over and over again. You certainly won’t find that to be the case when it comes to fragrances. I think it’s a major faux pas for a company to use the same container as another. It probably hasn’t even happened before! So it was my delighted surprise when TSI~LA ORGANiCS (pronounced chee-la) Eau de Parfum Mini Collection ($75 @ tsilaorganics.com) came across my desk. Each 3.5ml roll-on bottle is made of glass and so it makes these little guys so fun to apply. I know, I know, I have to get out of the house more…

My favorite this past week has been the Fleur Sauvage and here’s a breakdown of all four of the scents:

• Kizes – Sicilian bergamot, elderflower, tuberose, jasmine, orange flower
• Fleur Sauvage – tuberose, jasmine
• Kesu – jasmine, davana (Indian blossom), lime, amber, wood
• Ilang Ilang – floral tree blossoms

What makes this line tre unique is that these are pure perfume oils in a moisturizing base of coconut oil and orchid flower extract, so they are very concentrated. They don’t contain any alcohol, preservatives or colors. One thing I can’t figure out, if you rub you wrists together like I’ve heard NOT to do as it bruises the scent, does this also apply to fragrances that are made with pure ingredients like these from Tsi-LA? Or is the whole bruising thing a myth?

I'll Take That To-Go, Please

This is a genius makeup accessory! And of course it’s from SEPHORA. Here’s the dilemma: have you often loved the effect loose powder give your face? And for those touch ups during the day or eve, want to recreate that effect? Toting that big round container and bulky brush is not an option so invest in their Professional Refillable Powder Brush #54 ($22 @ sephora.com). It’s one of those tubes with the brush on the end and it’s refillable. Use the scoop that comes with it to fill your favorite powder inside, close it and you’re ready to hit the road, Jack!

You Read It Here First ...

I have not seen this line anywhere else so I am guessing it is safe to say you are reading it here first! File this one is under the headline of “a totally fun product to use.” The N8B (pronounced Nate B) line has three products – 2GETHER, a men’s moisturizer and post-shave healer, 3SOME, a shaving foam/face cleanser/body wash for men, and our pick, Stick ($22/1.5oz @ n8b.com). It’s a unisex face wash that’s totally portable and the Clean scent smells divine. Inside the stick is aloe vera and algae extract, among others. The formula kind of looks like glycerin soap and you just wet your face, rub some of the hard stick over your skin and then use your fingertips to work up a light lather. This one will be great for my next trip. 

Max Meds

I’ve been curious about this next line for quite some time and finally got the chance to try it out. We all know what great brands Sephora carries and this COSMEDiCiNE was created especially for the outlet. They claim to have the highest grade of ingredients just short of a prescription. The products also have what they call Instant Recognition Technology, which is a way for the ingredients to deeply penetrate the surface so they can do their thing.
One of the most interesting traits is one that the Medi-morphosis Self-Adjusting Exfoliator ($42/4.2oz). This face scrub is made with stop-action crystals that won't let you overdue it. That's a first!
And as with any line you want to try, if they have some kind of sample kit, I say go for it. This Spa-It-Yourself At Home Facial Kit ($95) contains nice sizes of all the essentials – The Facialist Deep Exfoliator (2oz), 1.35 oz Medi-Mask Intensive Clay Treatment (3.35oz), Hydra Stat Intensive Moisture Mask (2oz), Mega Dose Skin Fortifying Serum Ampoules (6 x 0.5 oz - these are my favorite items in the line), an adjustable white terry cloth head band, all packed in a white terry cloth travel pouch. All @ @ sephora.com

Get Ta Packing

For a week long trip or a weekend, here are two take with you on the go kits that cover all your needs.

For Body - GOLDEN EARTH Travel Kit ($30 @ goldenearth.net) – Soothe Lip Balm, Desire Body Lotion, Nourish Hand Cream, Trek Foot Cream, Tranquility Bath/Hand Gel, Revive.

For Hair - VON NATUR Travel Pack ($15 @ vonnatur.com) – Crown to Sole Shampoo, Crown to Sole Conditoner, Complete Body Lotion.

Holiday Pick - Bath Luxury

ELiZABETH W San Francisco Luxuries Set ($40 @ elizabethw.com) is the perfect gift for anyone on your list who loves to pamper themselves. There are three blue boxes: Bath Pouch (6oz), Travel Eau de Parfum (.5oz) and Perfumed Soap (3.5oz). And each set is available in eight difference scents like Lilac, Rose and Sweet Tea.

Holiday Pick - Bathing Beauty

From the SPACE NK 2007 Bath and Body Holiday Collection is our pick, the Ultimate Experience ($70 @ spacenk.com). This is for the categorical diva in your life. Each keepsake box was inspired by colorful Japanese kimonos and contains an Eau de Toilette Spray (.5oz), Body Wash (1.69oz), Body Balm (1.69oz), Bath Oil (1.69oz), Travel Candle, 2/1oz Bath Tablets and Soap (1.75oz). Each kit comes in their five different scents and our pick is the Enrapture. Peach Kernal, coconut blended with tuberose, ylang ylang, black currant and orange blossom. So soothing and unique.

Pick A Card, Any Card

What a great way to try out eye shadows from CARGO! This cute ColorCards ($24 @ sephora.com) invention is like a deck of cards in a tin. Each deck has 28 of their shadows, one on each card. Tuck the whole tin in your bag or slide a few cards in your purse to spruce up your lids before dinner. Application brush not included.

Travel Friendly

I am really loving these BOOTS No7 Quick-Thinking 4-in1-Wipes ($6.99/30 pack @ target.com). I recently went on a motorcycle trip through Albuquerque and back to Los Angeles and these were my saving grace as I could only pack a backpack on the bike. Each thick wipe cleanses, tones, removes makeup and moisturizes. What does the work? The pro B5, natural witch hazel and fennel. Perfect for any traveling you have to do this season!

Metallic-A

Any cosmetic colors in the metallic family seem to automatically get my attention. THE BODY SHOP’s Special Edition Autumn Color Collection Fabulous Metallics is all things shimmering and seductive. From eyes to cheeks to lips, they’ve got shades for them.

Precious Rouge in Lavish Pink – flirty medium pink ($14.50)

Special Edition Shimmer Smudgers in Etched Brown - a rusty bronze with iridescent pink pearls ($18.50)

Innovative Shimmer Squares in Cashmere Pink - deep rose pink, smoky grey and intense purple ($18)

Brilliance Powder in Lustrous Rose - rich pink shimmer with iridescent multi-colored glitter ($18.50)

All @ thebodyshop.com

For The Cause

This limited edition Pink Paddle Brush from SPORNETTE features ball tipped nylon bristles that are offset on a flexible pad so styling products are distributed thoroughly when brushing out hair. You also get a dynamite scalp massage with this one! For each brush purchased, they will make a donation to Breast Cancer Research Centers. ($10.79 @ beautydeals.net). Also available in Opera Travel Brush #5200 ($5) and Pink Banana #2031 ($4.50) ~Lisa

!Bon Voyage!

Not only do we love travel kits because you can get on the plane but they’re a great way to try more than one product in the line to see what you like. PHiLiP B Travel Kit ($30 @ philipb.com) is 4-2oz bottles of their best sellers in one cute zippered case. The two shampoos have SLS’s in them so if you color your hair, you may not want to use them.
African Shea Butter Shampoo (for all hair types – contains vitamin B5 – no fragrance), Scent of Sante Fe Shampoo (very gentle – 10% pure plant extracts of sage, Pinon, and Juniper Berry), Deep-Conditioning Crème Rinse (contains African Shea Butter, Wheat germ and soy protein), Peppermint Avocado Shampoo (contains extracts of peppermint, avocado and 16 plant extracts).

Summertime Hair Savers

After watching many shows on the QVC channel on this next line, I finally was able to try it out. The main ingredient in all of OJON’s products is the Honduran Ojan nut, which the locals call a tress transformer. They just came out with these three kits, which make it not only easier to sample more of the line but you're also getting the best bang for your buck. There’s a Fortifying Hair Ritual, Nurturing Hair Ritual, and my pick, the Shine and Protect Hair Ritual Kit ($50 @ sephora.com), made for those of us who color our hair. The set includes a Restorative Hair Treatment (1.35oz), Shine and Protect Shampoo (2oz), Shine and Protect Conditioner (2oz), Shine and Protect Glossing Mist (.85oz), and a Leave-In Glossing Cream (2oz).

A Traveling Treat

I never go out of town without a travel candle. THiS WORKS made beautiful golden candles with the perfect travel container. Deep Calm Travel Candles are stored in a cute yet functional airtight squ-oval metal container. There are four tea candles inside with a ceramic candleholder. The scent blend of Vetivert, Chamomile and Lavender is great for winding down at the end of the day. Don’t leave home without them! $46/4 candles @ barneys.com ~Lisa

Earth Angel

I have been a fan of THiERRY MUGLER’s Angel perfume for many, many years.  It’s proven itself to be a timeless fragrance. The signature silver star top and crystal bottle makes a statement on your dresser, but was always hard to hide in a small purse. Now they’ve made it easier to make this dreamy fragrance portable. In case you’ve never tried it, let me tempt you with the ingredients: Honey, Vanilla, Chocolate and Caramel with a top note of Patchouli. Fab!

To commemorate the 15-year anniversary of Angel, check out the new limited edition Eau de Parfum Purse Spray. More good news – just like the larger sizes, this bottle is refillable. How could it be easier? $45/.33oz @ sephora.com ~Lisa

'Tis the Season - Makeup

MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Essentials Kit ($45 @ sephora.com) contains all the makeup prerequisites for summer. The Lengthening Waterproof Mascara not only resists all conditions (try swimming with it on), but it also contains D-Panthenol and Ceramides to nourish lashes. The Aqua Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil No. 7L is a highly pigments blue that glides on easily and really enhances peepers. If blue isn’t your thing, then try the black of Waterproof Eyeliner No. 1 and do up eyes a la Amy Winehouse. Also included in the kit is .40oz Eye Seal that will waterproof any shadow, pencil or glitter. And to get it all off at the end of the day? Use some of the .84oz of the Sens’Eyes. It will gently clean every feature and is mineral oil and perfume free.

Give Good Face

Leave it to LUSH to come out with a purse-friendly way to try their skin care. The new Fresh-Face Starter Kits ($19.95 @ lush.com) come with three of their top selling products to help Normal to Oily, Combination Skin or Normal to Dry Skin. The Cleanser is .7oz, Moisturizer .4oz and the Facial Toner is 3.5oz so you have a bit to give them a few go arounds.
And since Lush is earth friendly, they have a lot of suggestions on how you can re-use the tray that the three products come in. How fun!