NYC New York Color, New Products Part 1 - Focus on Lips & Eyes @nycnewyorkcolor

Everyone enjoys the feeling of being pampered by expensive beauty and cosmetics products, but there are some very inexpensive beauty products can help you look just as good, for very little "gold."  For example, NYC New York Color is a fashionistas’ “find.” The line can be found in drugstores, and the packaging is simple, but the colors and formulas are trendy and wearable and the "lift" you get from treating yourself, is a big payoff. While most of the products cost less than a simple sandwich, that doesn't mean they're not any good.  NYC New York Color products are good, and they're trend, too.  The company tapped a leading makeup artist, Mathew Niagra, to be their lead creative person, and the collections he has designed the past few seasons have all the hallmarks of fashion.



Here are some of the products and new colors that will help you look and feel good all Spring and Summer (and beyond):





The 16 Hr Lip-Stain ($4.99) is a felt-tipped “lip marker” that dispenses a long-wearing, matte color that honestly, truly, stays put for hours. Ten shades offer intense color that won’t transfer onto clothing, napkins, cups…your lover?.....The fine tip makes precise application easy. What I love about these, besides the intense color, is the fact that unlike a regular lipstick, these lip stains won’t run into the fine lines that a lot of us have around our lips. You can even use a shiny lip gloss over them without fear. The downside is that they are feel a bit sticky and look slightly dull without an over-gloss, but they do their duty when you can’t find the time to re-apply. Brides, hikers, even surfers will covet these. Most of the shades are in the red to berry categories, and fairly bright, but there are also some “sweeter” colors including a very pretty light pink “Persistent Pink,” that adds just a hint of “I’ve just finished a cherry ice” look to lips. On the opposite site of the spectrum, “Rock on Ruby” is a bright, warm red that gives you bold lips without the worry of the color fading or running. Add a slick of clear shine (or shimmery gold) for a party-perfect pout and “Forever Mine Wine” is a trendy, deep wine that will make a statement, whether it’s worn on a pale complexion, or a deep one.

Traditionalists who love wanded lip glosses will find NYC Liquid Lipshine ($1.99) to be an easy alternative to the newer, "marker” type long wear lip product. It arrives in a traditional lip gloss tube with sponge-tipped wand, but the sponge is longer and thinner than most, making it much easier to apply the product, precisely. The “shine” is less patent-leather than pearly. While there are some intense color such as “Fashion Avenue Fuschia” deeply berried “Midtown Mulberry” and the nearly black/plum “Wine n Dine,” the rest of the colors are nudes, peaches and wearable pinks, plus “Citys Clear,” a clear gloss. A universally flattering color for Summer is “Big Apple Spice,” a shimmering copper. For the very pale, the light and pearly “Prospect Pink” will charm you.

If eyes are your focus, feast your vision on bargain palettes from NYC New York Color ($4.99)  with everything you need to make your eyes look trendy and pretty, with a unique twist: each palette is color coordinated with products that are created particularly to enhance blue, brown, or green eyes. While you can certainly use any of the palettes and look pretty, the idea is that the four eye shadow shades, plus a primer and illuminator (the same in all three palettes) will produce the best results for your special eye color. Although the compact is plain, I like the slim, shape and clear plastic cover featuring a clear, plastic overlay that shows you what the products are. Update for this season, the colors reflect runway trends in an easy to use, manner. For example, “942 Smokey Blues” for blue eyes has a surprising collection of taupe, shimmery brown and deep lid colors coupled with a golden peach highlighter.” While “943 Smokey Greens” has similar color choices, but in slightly bolder and deeper intensity, while the #941 Smokey Browns” palette provides an overall color choice of greyed tones. The color look very intense, but they apply with a light touch, so you can layer more, or just use a wash of color. These versatile palettes also benefit your skin with green tea extract, and Vitamins A & E. If you want to try just one intense color that is ripped right from the runway looks, NYC New York Color’s latest, available in June and July 2011, are single-pan Eye Love New York Mono Eye Shadows, $2.99 . Ten single pan, limited edition eye shadows in bold colors give you crease resistant, bold color that make it fun to try something new and fun, without too much of an investment. For example, “Buzz List” is a bright, rose-red that works as an accent, or go all-out and color your lids with a swath of color, and “High Street” is a clear, bright sea blue, for the look that made it onto many designer’s runways. The deep purple, lime green, or intense blue in this collection makes a fantastic shadow liner that lets you try color without going crazy. They’re just a lot of fun! TIP: Don’t be afraid to mix and match.



Finish your eye look with a fringe of great lashes. NYC New York Color has six to seriously consider, starting with perhaps the least expensive mascara on the market: Sky Rise Lengthening Mascara at just $1.99. Yes, it's crazy-cheap, but a “lift and stretch” technology offers lash-lengthening benefits. City Curls Mascara $2.99 gets a bit of a curl into even stick-straight lashes, thanks to a curved brush that helps eliminate clumping. Two mascaras for just $3.99 offer volume in both regular and waterproof formulas. Show Time Volumizing Mascara claims to boost lash thickness up to 8X and has a strengthening, “DuoPlay complex” and a softening 3D AquaWeb System. While the 8X thicker lashes isn’t something I can actually quantify, it makes a great, all-around mascara that colors well, and that you really can afford to replace regularly, as you should. For $4.99 NYC New York Color has a High Definition Separating Mascara and a High Definition Volumizing mascara. The Separating Mascara comes in a bright yellow tube and claims to lift lashes up to 70% with the help of the plastic, precision brush. It definitely makes lashes and your eyes, look alive. The Volumizing mascara arrives in a bright orange tube. It is supposed to lengthen and lifts with a claim of up to 10X with the help of a plastic precision brush. While there is no way to quantify the amount of lift or volume precisely, for under $5.00 either of these mascaras will lift, color, and separate lashes well, without a major outlay of cash. Any one of the NYC New York Color Mascaras will please you with flattering results.

Visit your favorite drugstore or mass market retailer or http://www.newyorkcolor.com/

For more amazing, affordable, new, NYC New York Color Makeup, Check Out What's New For Face and Nails in Part II, coming June 9th!  Don't miss it!!!!


Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.

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Johnny Rockets Celebrates 25 Years With A New Restaurant in NYC

the new, South Street Seaport Johnny Rockets showcases updated decor that will be rolled out in other JR's as well

Who hasn't been to a Johnny Rockets restaurant?  Well, me, actually.  That is, until yesterday, when I stopped by to take a peek at the newest franchise in this family-friendly hamburger fries and milkshake chain in the historic landmark, South Street Seaport, in New York City. As part of their 25th birthday celebration, Johnny Rockets is hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new restaurant, which visitors and locals can find located between Pier 16 and 17, right on the corner lot.  According to Johnny Rockets CEO John Fuller, Franchise Owner Bill White has had his eye on this very location since 2001!  For Mr. White, and for thousands of people who love Johnny Rockets food, the wait is over.

I had a chance to sit down and chat personally with the affabale, John Fullerr (he's the man on the right, in the blue shirt and grey jacket). Before I tell you more about the new restaurant, I just want to mention that Mr. Fuller was on the popular television program "Undercover Boss," where this finance-oriented CEO had to serve up the shakes, and even participate in the signature dance moves of the wait staff, done every half hour to amuse patrons and keep spirits, high.  What did the CEO take away from the experience?  He told me that for starters, cooking and serving is a lot harder than he thought it would be, and as a shy man, he found the dancing to be pretty daunting (but he did it).  But the thing he found most important had to do with hiring the right people with the right attitude. "It may seem simple, obvious perhaps, but make people smile," he said (and the proverbial whole world smiles with you).  Having people with the right attitude is the key to customer satisfaction, first and foremost."   To this reporter, it makes sense . After all, who wants to be around grumpy, irritated people? Mr. Fuller's episode of Undercover Boss will air again on June 26th.  I will definitely be watching.

part of any Johnny Rockets are dancing staff!

what ribbon cutting would be complete without a big, ceremonial scissor?

Several hundred Johnny Rockets can be found in 16 countries and 30 states, on cruise ships and in amusement parks. Each year, the restaurants serve more than 13 million hamburgers, plus their famous, hand dipped shakes and malts, and freshly baked apple pie. Alas, I wasn't able to test the famous food, but maybe next time I'm at the Seaport, I'll get the chance!

What classic malt/burger shop would be complete without juke boxes?

Part of the success of Johnny Rockets is that it is a trip down memory lane for some, retro fun, for the younger set.  And, Johnny Rockets is "wholesome" says Mr. Fuller. It has that retro diner look and feel, with tabletop jukeboxes and of course, the added surprise of dancing staff every half hour.  But there is something for everyone.  At the South Street Seaport location, there's also a full bar (I tasted one of the frozen margaritas and it was delicious, alas, I didn't get a chance to sample the signature food).  The South Street Seaport restaurant is open seven days a week; from 8 a.m. to midnight on Sunday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. There's also a large, outdoor patio, perfect for hanging out after a hard day at work, or sight-seeing. That is going to be great news for locals, as well as tourists,  who are happy to see something affordable, tasty, and familiar while they're checking out lower Manhattan.

...have you been to a Johnny Rockets? Share your thoughts!  . For more information about Johnny Rockets, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.

*all photos by Alison Blackman

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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The Essence Csometics of Color

I'm a color cosmetics junkie.  Although I've been reviewing makeup for more than a dozen years, you might think I'd get tired of makeup, but honestly, it gets more interesting by the day.  I can't help but get pumped about the latest makeup collections, colors and formulas. No lipstick is just a lipstick to me. Each product has something that makes it different and special, even if it's just a tad lighter or darker, more intense, shimmery or matte, than the last one. I can never get enough!

Essence lip products

Essence is a makeup line I didn't know much about until I spied it in Europe a few weeks ago, but if you are a color cosmetics junkie like me, you will just about die when you read this post, because Essence is a line not just full of fun, fabulous color cosmetics,most of the lipsticks, eye shadows, pencils and glosses are under $5.00 with many starting at just 99 cents!  The photo above shows just part of an extensive display that I got a chance to check out at a recent Essence Cosmetics event. There is a lot more below these top tiers that I just couldn't get into the lens of my Blackberry's camera. There is a core line, and new limited edition collections that are trendy and fun to try.

"Blossoms" an Essence limited edition collection at ULTA

The thing about color is that trying new ones should be fun, and easy, Alas, many trendy cosmetics are so pricey, you might not take a risk because it costs a lot of money, and you can't justify wearing it a couple of times and then stashing it in a drawer. Essence Cosmetics are so inexpensive it is all about having fun and trying new things. Go for that bright orange lipstick or glittery pink eye shadow that you really want to try. 

Inexpensive products don't necessarily mean poor quality. The Essence makeup I've been testing stays true to color, lasts a long time, and is easy to apply. The intended audience is definitely chic yougn women, and the packaging and advertising is veyr cute, young and girly. But the colors and products are going to wow moms as well as daughters.  I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love Essence!

I tried a lot of individual products, from lipsticks, glosses and balms, eye shadows, makeup brushes (good ones at insanely cheap prices), powders, mascaras, glitter pencils, gel liner, and much more. It would be nearly impossible for me to list them all, although you can visit your favorite ULTA Store or the Essence Web Site to check them out. 

Well..ok...you twisted my arm!  What did I really like?  Honestly, everything I tried. However, at just $2.99 the Essence Quattro Eye Shadow palettes with perfectly matched, trendy colors in different textures from matte to shimmer, are one of my top picks. There are six different color combos. I particularly like "Vamp It Up" featuring a two mattes colors of soft yellow and a stunning, intense teal, plus two shimmers in a deep purple and medium grey. At $3.99 Essence Stays On and On and On Mascara is a true winner! It's one of those mascaras that adds little tube like pieces to your lashes (sounds gross, but you can't really see them) to make them longer, lusher, and nicer. It stays on and on and on -- really!  If you want to easily remove it, use warm water (and yes, it's ophthalmologically approved). For $1.99 you can get a mini nail polish in so many dazzlingly amazing shades, you'll want a handful.  For example, I might not normally spent a lot of money on a bright, lime colored cream nail polish, but for $1.99 I can get an Essence Colour & Go Nail Polish in "Lime Up!" and love it for a few weeks or a month.  I adore 'Lets Get Lost" a bold, creamy turquoise, and "Irreplaceable," a sheer, beige shimmer that looks modern and different. If you want to treat yourself to something new and tiny, cute and squeal worthy, at $2.99 you can get the Essence Mini Lipgloss Set. It comes in a tiny cardboard box (really cute) with three mini glosses in two color combos: nude/glitter/clear or gilttery silver/shimmery peach/shimmery pink. Give one of these little sets to a friend who needs to vent about her troubles, watch her frown become a smile--all for less than the cost of a beer! 

Now that you know about Essence Cosmetics and what a treasure they are, you'll want to run, not walk, to the nearest ULTA Store. If you don't have one near you, know that Essence is hopefully going to be in other mass market retail stores, soon (and don't forget about the Essence website).

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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Victorias Secret Attractions Fragrant Body Indulgences

When your company is Victorias Secret, your products must exude supermodel sexiness. After all, most women (and a lot of men purchasing gifts for women) feel that wearing items from Victorias Secret will automatically amp up their desirability.  Victorias Secret Attractions, that launched in Victorias Secret Stores and www.victoriassecret.com in April 2011, give Victorias Secret fans a chance to find their own tempting fragrance vibe, and slather it on in the form of  a Fragrance Mist (8.4 fl. oz); Nourishing Body Lotion (9.6 fl. os.); Indulgent Body Cream (6.7 fl. oz.) and Daily Body Wash (10.1 fl. oz). 

What kind of temptress are you?  Glam Goddess?  Love Bitten? Wild One? or do you have  Sweet Craving?  Each of these four different, leopard and lace-packaged collections (Wild One is pink, Sweet Cravings is a golden cream, Glam Goddess is lavender, and Love Bitten is bright baby blue),  give you a chance to explore your inner desires, and transmit your personality through scent.  And, each has Victorias Secret's exclusive "EverTempt" fragrance cocktail that adds an almost pheremone-like benefit.  I won't go into the technicalities, but pheromones are chemicals that bypass conscious systems to trigger specific, often sexual, responses. Each of us has our own, unique pheromone molecule that carries a one of a kind, chemical signature. Although it would be difficult to quantify, the addition of scent attractors really does have some validity. A scent should be something you just really love to smell, but if it attracts someone special, that is an added bonus. Since Victorias Secret products seem to last longer than many, especially if the products are layered, you may find yourself walking home from work with a new friend, or perhaps, even a new lover?!

SWEET CRAVING:  Victorias Secret describes it as: "Let the decadence of warm vanilla and tempting praline satisfy your sweet craving."  This is truly the sexiest scent (actually, the only truly seductive scent) of the four. You can really smell the gourmand notes including what seemed to me to be a burnt almond, and these notes work nicely, especially on an elevated body temperature, to lure you (or someone else) to sniff the decadent scent, more deeply.

LOVE BITTEN: Victorias Secret describes it as: "Be a little naughty. Have a little fun. Get Love Bitten by the intoxicating blend of forbidden apple and sultry woods."  Maybe my nose is off as I write this review, but I didn't smell any sultry woods, and just a hint of what I might categorize as apple juice. The only thing that might make this light, softly sweet scent feel naughty is the additional of Victorias Secret's exclusive "Ever Tempt" blend of notes that might just get a guy to open a door, or turn his head to check you out.

GLAM GODDESS: Victorias Secret describes it as: "Steal the spotlight. Make heads turn. Embrace your inner Glam Goddess with sensual musk and naked freesia."  Soft musk and a floral like freesia is an unusual pairing, but it's a mild flirty vibe, not a head-turning, spotlight-stealing scent.





WILD ONE: Victorias Secret describes it as: "Inspire desire with the power of scent. Let loose with midnight raspberry and sexy lily and feel the exhilarating rush of Wild One™."  It is a pleasant berry fragrance that younger women will really love. But there's nothing wild about Wild One unless the smell of berries drives you to distraction. This "very berried" fragrance is a cheerful alternative for those who don't really like florals or spice.


Are you attracted? There is no need to wait!  Get Victorias Secret Attractions at Victorias Secret stores and online at www.victoriassecret.com

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  
 
 
THE ADVICE SISTERS BLOG AND WEB SITES WILL SOON BE MERGING INTO A NEW PORTAL WITH DAILY REVIEWS, ARTICLES AND MORE, AT http://www.advicesisters.net/  AT THAT TIME, THIS BLOG WILL END.  FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER @ADVICESISTERS  OR ON FACEBOOK FOR FURTHER NEWS
 

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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Women's Health 2011 5th Annual Beauty Awards

 

One of my favorite events each year is the showcase of winners of the Women's Health Beauty Awards.  The Editors of Women’s Health, along with a panel of 16 experts, and also the votes of readers, create make a list of "must-have" beauty products culled from companies catering to every budget. After the votes are tallied, the winners are listed in Women's Health Magazine. Then,  Beauty Editors (including The Advice Sisters) are invited to view the products, and take some of them home to try and recommend. 


Each year I wonder who the "experts" really are.  So I asked Jill Percia, the Associate Beauty Editor for Women's Health. She said that the panel of experts includes dermatologists, nine hair stylists, two colorists and seven makeup artists (the list is included in the magazine if you want to know precisely who was asked to judge).  But it's not just beauty experts that vote. Readers votes by filling out a ballot consisting of 28 categories focusing on  hair, makeup, facial skin and body. The ballot, for future reference if you want to vote next year, is at WomensHealthMag.com. But in the end, it's the Women’s Health editors who get to recommend the winner.  For this year, products under consideration were launched between January and June 2011.


As someone who has reviewed beauty products for more than a dozen years and tried literally hundreds (and in some cases, thousands)  of products in every category, I agreed with about half the expert's suggestions, and quite a bit fewer of the readers suggestions. For example, "Orgasm" blush by NARS is an all-time favorite in the "luxury" category that no one would argue with (certainly not me, I'm a huge fan). When it comes to fragrance, Chloe  And when it comes to lip products "Black Honey" from Clinique is another undisputed favorite. In the hair, body and skincare categories however, there is such a wide range of choice, and what works for one person won't necessarily be as satisfying to someone else.  While I'm not a dermatologist or a hair stylist, and perhaps these professionals are the best judges of whether or product is beneficial, or the best, I would wager a guess that I've personally tried even more products than the average dermatologist or hair stylist. And Women's Health readers are probably pretty savvy, but they can only suggest a winner from the products that they may have experienced, and that is clearly reflected in their choices.

Do you want to know what the experts, the editors, and beauty fans/readers of Women's Health think?  It is tempting for me to share the entire list with you, but I'm not going to do that, because If you see it here, you might not check out the 68 winning products in the June issue of Women’s Health that is on news stands, now.  You can also see them (and even print out a shopping list of them ) at Women's Health online   But my Blackberry photos from the event will give you a tempting peek. 


Do you recognize any of your favorites in these winners?  Please leave your comments about what your favorite products are, and whether you agree with the list!

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  *I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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Teriffic Tanda Zap Trashes Zits

The Tända Zap

Whether it is  from stress, heredity, hormonal changes, environmental pollutants, something you ate that just didn’t agree with your skin, or something else, zits happen. You can squeeze them (not recommended) or dry them out with various types of drying agents, but if you’re really in a hurry and have just one or two pimples that are marring your mirror view, modern machines can help you pursue and banish them, quickly and effectively. 

For example, there is the Tända Zap. The Advice Sisters have reviewed a couple of terrific, Tända complexion tools over the past couple of years. And most recently, the Tända  Clear, (upon which you can also place an anti-aging tool as well as a acne-fighting one). Tända Clear works with ultra violet (UV) free blue light that doesn’t contain the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. The Tända Zap also uses light, along with  mild heat to open pores so that the 414nm blue LED light (same as in the larger, Tända  Clear) can work to reach more of the P.acnes bacteria that can cause mild to moderate acne. Scientific studies by the Canadian University Health Network showed that after just three minutes of treatment with Tända Clear, there was a 74% decrease in p.acnes colonies.


It just so happened that horror of horrors, I was trying some new moisturizers and the melange of emollients produced a deep, red, swollen, yukky looking zit on the side of my face. The Tända Zap reduced it so much in just one treatment, I didn’t even bother with another treatment. It was nearly gone entirely I woke up the next morning. That’s impressive!

The Tända  Zap is programmed for 1,000 uses and yet it costs just $49.00. It even comes with it;s own 3 AAA batteries. For five cents a treatment for something pleasant to use that won’t dry out or scar your skin, and that works, it[‘s a near miracle. You will want one just in case, eve if you rarely break out.  Visit www.tandazap.com or Blooomingdales, Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman and other prestige retailers and web sites to get your own. 
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Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham.

The Disney Store Wows Adults and Kids Alike With Three New Fragrances

When I was very small, someone gave me a tiny bottle of something called "Tinkerbell" fragrance.  If I remember correctly, it smelled like fruity chemicals, and wasn't very pretty, but it was my first "perfume" ever.  Obviously it was meant to enchant little girls who loved the pretty little pixie of Disney fame (but the cosmetics line wasn't created by Disney--copyright issues ensued). 


Fast forward to 2011.  This year, The Disney Store announced the launch of its new fragrance collection, inspired by some of Disney’s most timeless and beloved characters and stories. There is something for everyone from toddlers to seniors with two home scents, and a fragrance for young girls. The premium personal fragrances, home scents, candles and unique gifts were created in conjunction with some of the world’s leading fragrance houses, perfumers and an award-winning design team.


“The power of fragrance is truly magical - it can evoke memories and convey dreams and aspirations. Disney’s rich heritage and most beloved characters also have that same allure”, says Jim Fielding, President of Disney Stores Worldwide. “With the launch of Disney Store’s own fragrance collection, we’re touching all of the senses for the first time in a uniquely Disney way.”


The first fragrance in the collection will be available in Disney Store locations nationwide beginning from June 2011 with other fragrances introduced throughout the rest of 2011, including an eagerly-awaited holiday collection.  

Disney is a much-loved brand and nearly anything with Disney characters on it will probably sell like hot cakes, but the real test of a fragrance is whether or not it smells good.  I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but to my surprise, I discovered that all three of these new Disney Store fragrances are quite sophisticated and lovely. Alas, my personal recollections of the individual fragrances have faded a bit from my memory, and my notes are now gone *see my notice at the end of this review, but here's how The Disney Store describes, each:  

Imagination:  This is the signature fragrance used throughout the newly designed Disney Store.  It is described as: " an enchanted forest of sequoia trees, cool moss and green leaves."  The scent is actually inspired by the trees that line the route of the "magical path" within the new stores. The trees, and the new scent, are supposed to give you the sense of being in an enchanted forest. I like the lime green carton with metallic gold ccents, featuring pops of hot pink and bright pink color on the Disney Trees. Inside the carton you get a surprise of a hot hit of bold orange color!  If you're getting the idea that the all this meant to make you feel good, and to spark your imagination, you are correct.  The Imagination fragrance is mossy and green, light and fresh, reminding me of the smell of green leaves and freshly mowed grass. The fragrance smells luxurious, but the products are modestly priced.  There is a large, scented candle ($19.50)  in a clear glass votive with a graphic of the Disney Trees (this time in lime greens) and with "Imagination" is elegant, gold script. This would make a lovely gift for a weekend hostess.  There is also a nice room spray ($16.50) in a glass spray bottle with the same graphics as the candle. Spritz a bit before your guests arrive, and they will feel calm and relaxed before the drinks are even served.  Rounding out this home scent collection are a 8.4 fl. oz pump bottle of scented hand wash, and a matching hand and body lotion ($12.50 each).  These are available in Disney Store locations nationwide starting in June 2011, so that means get them now! 


Discover a new world of…..Magic

Magic, an unforgettable blend of icy blue mint, rich chocolate and invigorating sea spray, epitomizes the adventure of Disney and all that is Mickey Mouse. Along with Imagination, its inspiration comes from the outside world to give it a refreshing sense of nature. Magic is the freedom of children playing outdoors; it’s a breeze of fresh, cool, minty air, green grass, clean woods and a surprise of chocolate.  *what I remember of this lovely fragrance is that it makes you feel good the minute you smell it. In fact, it has an uplifting "happy" molecule in it.  My recollection was mostly a green scent, with a hint of salt and chocolate.  If that sounds yummy, trust me, it is!   Magic home fragrances, candles and room scents will launch in stores in July 2011.


Discover a new world…… Pixie Dust

Pixie Dust, a shimmering scent of citrus sorbet, candied fruits and summer rain, is the fragrance inspired by Tinker Bell. It’s the fragrance one could imagine floating through the air as Tinker Bell showers the earth with her Pixie Dust, causing nature to blossom. Pixie Dust captures Tinker Bell’s personality perfectly – it charms with a shimmering sweetness yet it also has a subtle hint of sassiness.  *Pixie Dust is a pretty, light, fruity floral that obviously will appeal (and be appropriate) for very young ladies, but  it isn't your usual, cloying and overly sweet concoction that manufacturers seem to think will appeal to very young girls. This one is tempered so it's still fruity and slightly sweet and light, but it has depth--like an expense bowl of sorbet.  It's quite a special fragrance to be a young girl's first!   It doesn't smell like a cheap scent in a cheap bottle. Speaking of which, this lovely presentation features a pretty flacon with a blue flower on the top, and will also be available in a rollerball, and in bath and body items.  Pixie Dust comes as a range of personal products including Eau deEau de Toilette and lip gloss will also be available.


To find a local Disney Store, visit www.DisneyStore.com/storelocator or call (866) 902-2798. You can also sign up for email alerts at www.DisneyStore.com/Updates, become a fan on Facebook www.facebook.com/DisneyStore or follow Disney Store on Twitter www.twitter.com/DisneyStore to stay connected.


ABOUT DISNEY STORE The Disney Store retail chain, which debuted in 1987, is owned and operated by Disney in North America, Europe, and Japan. Disney Store is the retail merchandising arm of Disney Consumer Products, the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) and its affiliates that extends the Disney brand to merchandise. Disney Store carries high-quality products, including exclusive product lines that support and promote Disney's key entertainment initiatives and characters. Disney Store opened its first store in Glendale, California and, in doing so, originated the themed retail business model. There are currently more than 200 Disney Store locations in North America; more than 40 Disney Store locations in Japan; and more than 100 Disney Store locations in the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Ireland, Italy and Portugal, plus online stores www.DisneyStore.com and www.disneystore.co.uk.  Each Disney Store location offers a magical shopping experience that can only be delivered by Disney, one of the world's largest and most successful entertainment companies.



IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT THIS REVIEW: *this review was created long ago, with my initial, personal impressions of the fragrances, along with press notes, right after the initial launch.  The information was embargoed, so I pre-scheduled it for June. Then Blogger had a major incident and removed (or lost) everyone's posts.   So this review has been written three times and may not be as detailed as the first version.  Although it is Blogger who is at fault, I apologize.  (Alison Blackman Dunham)

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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Skincare Advice from a Dermatologist -- and the Advice Sisters

  I don't usually post advice from dermatologists, but I thought these tips from Dermatologist Dr. Paul Friedman of Houston Texas, were important.  To choose the right products for your skin, you need careful consideration. To get the results you want, you must use them as directed, and apply them regularly. The following tips from Dr. Friedman (plus some additional comments from beauty expert, Alison Blackman of the Advice Sisters) will help you become a more savvy skincare consumer:

·        If you have acne-prone skin, avoid buying lotions that come in a jar or pot, says Dr. Friedman. Dipping your fingers into lotions every day introduces bacteria to the entire jar, and that can translate onto your skin, causing breakouts or infections.

·       Ask for recommendations, but proceed with caution. Keep in mind skin care is a unique experience: what works for some does not work for all.  *Alison's Tip:  The Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review columns have more than a decade's worth of archived products reviews, along with my philosophy and disclosure for reviwing products. 

·       If you are buying environmentally friendly products, watch out for those that are “paraben free.” Parabens have been singled out as potentially dangerous chemicals, but what most consumers don’t know is they are included in skincare items for a reason – to help them last longer. Most paraben-free products will spoil after a certain timeframe, which is usually listed on the package. Pay attention to this date and treat it almost like a food item, says Dr. Friedman. Alisons' Tip * don't just look at expiration dates. If a product has changed in consistency, or color, or smell, or if it has tiny bubbles that look like something might be happening to the formula, ditch it!

·        You don’t need an “arsenal” of products to look your best. Many skin care companies sell their products in a series or grouping. According to Dr. Friedman, most women only need a gentle cleanser, daily moisturizer with SPF of 15 or higher, and a moisture-rich night cream to maintain a healthy complexion.  * Alison's Tip:  although a daily moisturizer with SPF of 15 or preferably, higher, will give you some protection from the sun's damaging rays, it won't last forever. Make sure it is a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection, and be sure to re-apply it a few times during the day, especially if you tend to rub or touch your face.

·       Read the (back of the) labels. Many products contain irritants like added fragrances or alcohols that can dry the skin. No matter what a package promises on the front, read the back carefully to ensure you are getting what’s advertised. If you have skin sensitivities towards certain foods, it is also important to look for essential oils, which are often derived from foods that can cause allergies in some people. *Alison's Tip:  if you don't know what an ingredient is, don't assume that it is something bad just because it has a clinical or scary-sounding name.  Do some research and assure yourself that what you're getting in that jar, tube or pump bottle is safe.

·       Don’t be fooled by clever marketing terminology. Product packaging is usually designed to do one thing: sell the product. Dr. Friedman says the last thing you should look for in a product is an appealing design. Be wary of claims like “dermatologist tested” or “allergy tested.” These phrases often carry little meaning. *Alison's Tip:  this is good advice, and it is from a dermatologist!

·       Watch where you store your skin care. Different types of products, such as gels, may have temperature requirements in order to stay effective, notes Dr. Friedman. Leaving products in direct sunlight, in extreme heat or cold could also affect their performance. If there are no directions, Dr. Friedman notes products should be kept in cool, dry areas. Alison's Tip * if you are traveling, consider putting your potions in plastic bags.  Heat, and cold, and pressure or lack therof in an airplane hold, can make a product, seep.

About Dr. Paul Friedman

Paul M. Friedman, M.D. is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology, specializing in dermatologic laser surgery and Mohs micrographic surgery. He is also the director of the DermSurgery Laser Center in Houston, Texas and also practices at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in Manhattan.  

Copyright ©Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No content may be used or copied without written permission. If you want to use my work, please obtain it legally. For more information, Email Me.  You can show your interest and support by subscribing, leaving comments on my posts,  and by following me on Facebook and Twitter  (@advicesisters).  You can also read and subscribe to my National Luxury Lifestyles Column  and NY Cosmetics column on the Examiner.com.  

*I use provided samples for most of my reviews. Learn more in the "A Note About Compensation" section of the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review column

 I LOVE YOUR COMMENTS!  Please leave your comments on my posts. You can find the "comments" section (in green) at the bottom of each post next to: "Posted by Alison"  If Comments has a (0) next to it, I would especially appreciate yours being the first! Thanks in advance for interacting with me.
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