Merry Christmas!

Hello my lovelies! Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad and Bom Natal!

Stay beautiful!

Nikki

Before and After Hair

The difference a hair cut makes. Especially when it's done by someone who works so naturally on hair like Tree Vaello. I met Tree at a braid bar at a beauty event in Neiman Marcus and I think we immediately clicked because she is pure positive energy and happiness, bottled up and ready to go!

This is the braid I got from Tree at the beauty event. I think it took her 5 minutes!

She will make you laugh, keep the conversation lively but most importantly: your hair will look amazing! Check out the big difference with the subtle cut she gave me.

Thank you Tree!

Dear Teacher: I'm sorry for being a beauty junkie

I never struggle with college and I'm that rare breed of student that highly enjoys giving out a presentation in front of the class: I practice beforehand, I get giddy and full of adrenaline because I enjoy it so much. And shouldn't everybody?

So, when I got a "B" this semester I totally flipped. I looked for my professor immediately because I desperately needed to know why after being an enthusiastic presenter, turning in all my assignments and excelling in my last portfolio I got such undeserving grade (I am getting a degree in a Digital Photography Specialization).

When the professor gives me an answer I am in utter shock and awe, " "You got a "B" because you're always putting make-up on in my class and that is so rude." I think to myself: that is so unfair, considering I don't apply my make-up chanting or giving my less beauty savvy classmates tips.

Worst words after that: "You are an "A" student, you do "A" work but even if you have the best photos and work in the class, you get a "B".

I'll be honest: I have no clue how one thing affects another because they don't. I never compromised the quality of my work with a little bit of corrective make-up application at 9:00am.

As of right now, I'm writing a letter to my teacher apologizing for being a beauty junkie.

My Philosophy: Love Your Face!

Philosophy brand has by far the cutest and best feel-good thoughts on their prepackaged gifts like their 3-in-1 body washes, shower gels, and shampoos for all your girlfriends this year but, did you know they also have an amazing oxygen peel for your face?

I had an appointment at a Philosophy event and am blown away but how radiant and soft my skin feels after this 5 minute facial which started with their uber-delicious Purity facewash (a spa in a bottle like Philosophy consultant Jennifer Martinez described it)!
I had never tried Philosophy skincare products in the past so I was surprised about how gentle yet brightening this oxygen peel was.

I'll keep you all updated on how my skin does during a 10 week oxygen peel treatment which will get rid of dark spots, brighten my skin and basically make me look younger!

High End Beauty at a Wholesale Price

Andrea Pomerantz-Lustig (beauty editor at Glamour mag) recently talked about getting quality products at places like COSTCO and Sam's. I couldn't resist (it sounded like an urban myth!) and went on the hunt and found products from Philosophy, Moroccan Argan Oil from Organix, Cinique and Bliss!

So maybe they won't have the cute packaging like at the department store but you will pay a fraction of the cost for more product! They also make for great stocking stuffers and gifts.

Pantone 2013 Color Revealed

PANTONE has named the official color of 2013: Emerald!


Photo: SEPHORA

Cocktailing (Part I)

Cocktailing (verb) The act of mixing cosmetics to create exciting, customized beauty products.

On a recent visit to an Estee Lauder counter my eyes were tired from staying up late the night before (blame it on SANTACON!). They offer Signature Services (free mini make-overs on the spot!). One of them is a Fatigue Fighter for eyes. At the end of the service my eyes looked rested, brighter and just much better!

DD, the consultant explained everything she was doing step by step. (Apply concealer after applying foundation, you will apply less concealer if you do it in this order.)

1) Using the Cooling Eye Illuminator' s (an awesome depuffing and highlighting creation) unique ergonomic applicator, apply around both eyes. Avoid your tear ducts and the inside of your eyes. (Tip: Don't overdo it with the amount of product. The cooling applicator feels so nice and cold under eyes though, this you can overdo!)

2) Next, put two pearl size amounts of the Cooling Eye illuminator and same amounts for the Double Wear Stay-in-Place Concelear on the front part of your hand and mix!

3) Using a concealer brush, dab this concoction around all your eye area. Don't be scared to extend this over your upper cheek and side of your nose. Just remember to blend it well into your skin. You don't have to use all the product mixed on your hand, use what you need.

4) Using a big powder brush, seal with mineral or translucent powder. Avoid using pressed powder because it may come on too heavy and make your eyes look wrinkly.

There! Our first lesson of cocktailing and beautiful eyes!

QUICK TIP!

Often times when you rub serum or a defrizzing oil on your hair you're left with greasy hands. Don't wash your hands! Rub your elbows with the remaining product and moisturize those often neglected rough spots.

QUICK TIP

Wash your make-up brushes once every 2 or 3 weeks to make them last longer and eliminate any icky, germy residue caused by cosmetics residue. Use a little bit of shampoo or brush cleaner (bareMinerals has a good one) under warm, running water and very important: lay flat to dry (on a double layer of paper towel) while giving them back their shape.

Brushes: Sonia Kashuk available at Target