tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-191506842024-03-06T22:27:23.787-08:00The Frugal Duchess of BeautyFrugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-27823537369725666592007-11-14T12:22:00.000-08:002007-11-14T12:30:40.629-08:00Why Stress Increases Beauty & Health Costs<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/1600/beach1.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/320/beach1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Stress is expensive in terms of beauty care costs and our health. This release (with stress-busting tips) offers insights about the bottom-line impact of stress on our appearance:<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">"</span>Pending job cuts at the office. Back-to-back final exams. A messy divorce. An unexpected surgery. What do they all have in common? In a word -- stress. While everyone knows that stress can take a toll on a person physically and psychologically, it also can lead to dermatologic problems, such as acne, brittle nails or even hair loss.<br /><br /><br />"In treating hundreds of patients over the years with skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, acne and psoriasis, I have seen firsthand how stress can aggravate the skin and trigger unexpected flare-ups that, in effect, create more stress for patients," said Dr. Mayoral. "Learning how to manage the effects of stress on your skin can help alleviate some of the anxiety and symptoms."<br /><br /><strong>Stress and the Skin</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />When a person becomes stressed, the level of the body's stress hormone (cortisol) rises. This in turn causes an increase in oil production, which can lead to oily skin, acne and other related skin problems. Dr. Mayoral noted that even patients with skin that is not affected by acne tend to develop temporary stress-related acne due to increased oil production.<br /><br />In fact, a study in the January 2001 issue of the Archives of Dermatology entitled "Psychological Stress Perturbs Epidermal Permeability Barrier Homeostasis," found that stress has a negative effect on the barrier function of the skin, resulting in water loss that inhibits the skin's ability to repair itself after an injury.<br /><br />Specifically, the study involving 27 medical, dental and pharmacy students examined how periods of higher stress (in this case, during final examinations) impacted the skin's response to repeated stripping of cellophane tape on the subjects' forearms vs. periods of lower stress (such as after returning from winter vacation). Researchers found that it took longer for the skin to recover from the minimally invasive tape stripping during periods of perceived higher stress than during less stressful periods.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Stressed-Out Hair</strong><br /><br />There are many reasons why men and women lose their hair, but Dr. Mayoral believes that stress may be the primary reason for unexplained hair loss. When someone is under stress, hair can go into the telogen (fall-out) phase. Telogen effluvium is a very common hair loss problem that can occur up to three months after a stressful event. After the initial hair loss, hair usually grows back in six to nine months.<br />Life-changing events such as childbirth or surgery also can cause hair loss. Dr. Mayoral explained that during these times, the body takes a "time-out" from growing hair to concentrate on recovery and healing. As such, hair does not grow as much and some could shed and not grow back right away.<br />"Stress affects people differently -- some may develop an ulcer, or have a heart attack, or lose their hair," said Dr. Mayoral. "Hair loss is a normal response to stress, but patients should see a dermatologist for a proper evaluation to rule out other medical causes. I also advise patients to avoid any strange diets where only one or two foods are allowed, as improper nutrition and extreme or rapid weight loss can result in hair loss."<br /><br /><strong>Effects of Stress on Nails</strong><br />Nails are not immune to showing outward signs of stress, and some people develop the nervous habit of biting their nails or picking at them when they feel stressed. Another stress-related nail habit that Dr. Mayoral discussed is people who rub their fingers over their thumb nail, which can create a ridge across the nail. This rubbing causes a distortion of the nail plate, and when the nail grows, a raised ridge forms in the middle of the nail. In addition, physical or emotional stress, certain diseases, and chemotherapy can cause white horizontal lines to appear across the nails. Brittle, peeling nails also are a common side effect of stress.<br />"Sometimes patients with nail problems are not aware that their habits or tics from being stressed out or nervous are at the root of their problem," said Dr. Mayoral. "There are instances where patients self-inflict skin, hair or nail problems that go beyond what we normally expect from stress, and these patients often need psychological help to modify their behavior."<br /><br />In her practice, Dr. Mayoral finds it beneficial to give patients the tools to help themselves cope with stress-related skin flares, particularly patients with eczema, acne, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis where outward symptoms are obvious. For example, Dr. Mayoral teaches her acne patients how to modify their treatment regimen to deal with flare-ups from stress -- which gives them control to help themselves during stressful periods.<br /><br />"Being in control of your situation can help relieve stress," said Dr. Mayoral. "For instance, I teach my acne patients who use a topical acne medication once a day how to safely use the medication more frequently to counter the effects of stress. If this doesn't work, they know to call me or come in to the office so we can make further adjustments in their treatment. I find that initially giving them the power to fix the problem is very empowering to them."<br /><br />In addition, Dr. Mayoral offered tips to curb the effects of stress both internally and externally:<br /><br />-- Learn to recognize the underlying problem that is triggering your<br />symptoms and develop skills to help minimize the stress.<br />-- Exercise helps release endorphins in the body that can reduce stress.<br />-- Avoid very hot showers or baths and use detergent-free soaps.<br />Moisturize as soon as possible after bathing.<br />-- Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher daily to<br />protect your skin from sun exposure.<br /><br />For more information on skin, hair and nail conditions that can be affected by stress, visit <a class="release-link" href="http://www.skincarephysicians.com/" target="_newbrowser">http://www.skincarephysicians.com/</a>, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.<br /><br />Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or <a class="release-link" href="http://www.aad.org/" target="_newbrowser">http://www.aad.org/</a>.<br />Source: American Academy of Dermatology <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;">"</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/clipfrugalbeauty-20">The Frugal Duchess of Beauty Store</a>Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-14994093528616286682007-01-27T20:01:00.000-08:002007-11-14T12:31:21.648-08:00Free Diet Plan: WalkingStay in shape without dieting or an expensive gym. That's the word from <strong>Woman's World Magazine, </strong>which quotes a Swiss study featured in the <em>American Journal of Public Health.</em> According to that study, a daily 30-minute walk at a brisk pace will help you maintain your current weight <em>without</em> dieting.<br /><br />But if you're in the mood for a slower stroll you'll have to walk for 60 minutes, the study says.<br /><br />In addition to a steady diet of yoga stretches, I am also a walker. I try to go on long walks at least several times a week. Long walks reduce stress, massage the heart and keep me in shape.<br /><br />_______<br /><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/clipfrugalbeauty-20">The Frugal Duchess of Beauty Store</a><br />________Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-23447839550240669012006-11-12T20:45:00.000-08:002006-11-12T21:01:07.937-08:00Asian Beuaty SecretsI was stunned to find out that one of the lead actresses from the movie version of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Memoirs of Geisha</span> was 40 years old. She looks half her age.<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/1600/beach1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/320/beach1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />I'm not alone in my amazement. In the November issue of <span style="font-weight:bold;">More,</span> Sandy Thompson, a 43-year-old marketeing executive, makes a similar observation based on a trip to Hong Kong<br /><br /><blockquote>"I turned 40 in Hong Kong and was surprised to find that mature Asian women didn't look nearly their age." --Sandy Thompson, More magazine (Nov. 2006)</blockquote><br /><br /><br />Here are a few of the Asian beauty secrets that she discovered:<br /><br />1) Drinking Bird's Nest---a beverage made from bird's saliva. <span style="font-style:italic;">(No, thanks!)</span><br /><br />2) Consume lots of green tea <span style="font-style:italic;">(There's a cup of green tea steeping on the table as I write this)</span><br /><br />3) Facials!!!<br /><br />4) Heels!<br /><br />5) Makeup<br /><br />6) No blazers!Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-52934255165119958912006-11-05T22:14:00.000-08:002006-11-12T20:55:43.423-08:00My New LookHere's my frugal makeover, courtesy of Beta Blogger.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1160486300809263152006-10-10T06:16:00.000-07:002006-10-29T08:56:10.091-08:00Baking Soda: Beauty in a Box 101Great for the skin, the teeth and the pedicure. That's the word on baking soda. Arm & Hammer will take you on a <a href="http://www.armandhammer.com/myhome/tour.asp">baking soda tour</a> of your home with recipes and unusual uses for the product, which is cheap. (Generic is even cheaper.)<br /><br /><br />Here's an example of baking soda uses for beauty routines:<br /><br />* "<span style="font-weight:bold;">Facial Scrub and Body Exfoliant<br /></span> <br />Removing dead skin cells will leave your skin soft and smooth, perfect before application. Make a paste of 3 parts ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda to 1 part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate the skin. Rinse clean. Gentle enough for daily use!"<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Hair Care</span><br /> <br />For locks that rock, remember to shake it. Sprinkle a small amount (quarter-size) of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly. The ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Refreshing Bath Soak</span><br /><br />Taking a bath is so last year…until now! Add 1/2 cup of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. Your skin will feel silky smooth, and it’s a great way to get away from it all.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Soothing Foot Soak</span><br /><br />Here’s a great way to start your home pedicure. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda in a basin of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub with a paste of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda. The hardest part is deciding which color nail polish you’ll use this week!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Mouth Cleaning</span><br /><br />Clean up your mouth! * Use ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda to help keep teeth clean and white! Sprinkle some ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda into your palm, dip in your damp brush, and clean those pearly whites. For a smile that’s Cleaner, Whiter, Fresher™ try ARM & HAMMER® Oral Care products with the proven cleaning power of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda.<br /><br />*ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda does not contain the anti-cavity ingredient fluoride. Use it where water is fluorinated or when a non-fluoride toothpaste is desired for adult use or as directed by your dentist or physician.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Mouth Freshening</span><br /><br />Bad breath keeping you tight-lipped? Open up for ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda. Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water, swish, spit and rinse. Odors are neutralized – not just covered up- so get ready to pucker up!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Deodorize Retainers</span><br /><br />Minimize the "oh gross" factor by cleaning and freshening retainers and mouth-guards with ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda. Soak after every use in a solution of 2 teaspoons ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda and warm water. Every so often, brush them clean with a paste of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda. That’ll keep everyone smiling!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Antacid</span><br /><br />Spicy food is yummy until it bothers the tummy. ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda is a safe and effective antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach and/or acid indigestion, when used as directed. Always refer to the ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda package for instructions. Learn more about how ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda works as an antacid.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Hand Cleanser</span><br /><br />Give yourself a hand with ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda. Forget the harsh soaps and gently scrub away ground-in dirt and neutralize odors on hands with a paste of 3 parts ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda to 1 part water, or 3 parts ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda to your liquid hand soap. Then rinse clean. Your skin will feel softer too!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Clean Brushes and Combs</span><br /><br />For lustrous hair with more shine, keep brushes and combs clean. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of 1 teaspoon of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Deodorant</span><br /><br />A quick pit stop. Dust ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda under arms as needed to feel fresh all day. The magic of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda actually absorbs odors instead of just covering them up. For wetness and deodorization protection, try ARM & HAMMER® ULTRAMAX Deodorant Antiperspirant.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1154885132703971792006-08-06T10:19:00.000-07:002006-11-11T22:11:32.394-08:00Yoga: My new BotoxYoga is great for my skin. It diminishes the parenthesis ( 0 ) around my mouth. <br /><br />I've noticed this on several occassions. Here's the drill: When I do a yoga routine before bed, my face looks so unlined in the morning. So rested. <br /><br />Who needs botox when relaxation exercises and deep breathing take the tension out of your face?<br /><br />I take a few yoga classes a week and I work out with a tape sometimes before bedtime.<br /><br />Then I sleep well.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1148651785636849892006-05-26T06:45:00.000-07:002006-10-29T08:56:09.972-08:00How I Aged 20 Years in One Day.<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/1600/beach1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/320/beach1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />I know about sun damage and because of a horrible, <span style="font-style:italic;">fry-your-face</span>//peel-you-back itchy sunburn, I now always use sunscreen.<br /><br />Here's the scenario. I went to the St. Martin for my honeymoon (15 years ago). Weeks before my trip, I was constantly carded in New York City clubs and Atlantic City casinos. Everyone thought I was in my late teens. (I was much older)<br /><br />But in the hot sub-tropical sun, I stubbornly refused to use sunscreen. I was having one of my macho moments and thought my skin was strong enough to take the punishment. UGH! I fried; I burned; I peeled. It was not the best day of my honeymoon.<br /><br />And my poor face!!! I had deep, deep wrinkles in the inner and outer corners of my eyes. No one asked for my proof of age. People started calling me <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ma'am</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">madame</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I aged decades in one afternoon of hot sun.</span><br /><br />I reversed some of that damage with an expensive sunscreen, but my skin has never been the same and I've learned my lesson: USE SUNSCREEN.<br /><br /><br /><br />Forget Botox, facelifts, collagen, acupuncture treatments and expensive skin creams!!!!<br /><br />Millions of dollars are spent annually on cosmetic procedures and expensive anti-aging treatments.<br /><br />But for far less money ($5 and under), we can buy cheap but effective preventive facial/skin care. <span style="font-style:italic;">THINK SUNSCREEN<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span>. <br /><br />On a personal level, I know the power of sunscreen. For the last few weeks, I've been out of my favorite anti-aging skin creams. I use inexpensive; but effective drugstore potions. I've been too busy to clip coupons and pick up more. But I've slapped on some sunscreen --important in Miami--and my skin has been looking great. Less is more, especially if you remember the sunscreen. <br /><br /><br />The latest crop of women's magazines -- Real Simple, First, For Me -- have written some interesting pieces about the frugal and effective power of sunscreen. On the low end, decent coverage can cost $5 (or less). Here's one cheapie that's gotten rave reviews:<br /><br />Hawaiian Tropic Baby Faces & Tender Places SPF 50 $5 (rated best stick protection by Real Simple)<br /><br /><br />On the higher end: Lancome Soleil Ultra Expert Sun Care SPF 50 Sunscreen Face and Body Lotion $32.50....rated best cream by Real Simple.<br /><br /><br />Real Simple offers these <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/sunscreen">sunscreen tips</a>Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1138756593158323702006-01-31T17:13:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.914-08:00Beauty & Skin Experts Say....My makeup bag is downwardly mobile. Before parenthood, I was well-stocked with cosmetics and skin-care treats from expensive beauty spas and high-end department stores. But after parenthood, I gradually traded down the commodities chain and my makeup table is now stocked with goodies from national pharmacy chains. <br /><br />And quite, frankly my skin has actually thrived on this discount diet. But based on the you-get-what-you-pay-for doctrine, I’ve been puzzled by my skin’s positive response. But the experts have ready answers, namely: when it comes to cosmetics, high cost does not always equal high-quality care. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">ADVICE FROM SKIN DOCTOR</span><br /><br />“There are very good products at CVS and Walgreen’s that are very effective and very affordable,” says Dr. Helena Igra, a cosmetic surgeon and board-certified dermatologist based on Miami Beach. “The most expensive products are not necessarily the best.” <br /><br />So there’s no need to feel deprived, if you can’t afford to spend hundreds of dollars a month on skincare products. Nor should, you feel compelled to purchase the high-end over-the-counter skincare products that some dermatologists directly market, says Igra, who does not sell skin care products in her office. Indeed, she’s happy to suggest a number of “very good, very dependable,” drugstore products –from publicly traded household names — that will pamper your skin at a fraction of the costs. <br /><br />Of course, if you have serious skin problems, prescription-only pharmaceutical intervention may be necessary. But many of the inexpensive, over the counter products work just fine for the every-day nuisances wrought by sun and stress (fine lines, small eruptions and brown spots), Igra says.<br /><br /><br />And while, some expensive skin-care products live up to their billing, packaging, research/development costs and marketing budgets can also boost lofty price tags, the doctor says.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">LESSONS FROM TV PERSONALITY</span><br /><br />That same lesson was personally delivered to me, by a local television personality, who discovered the beauty of pharmacy cosmetics after losing her luggage — including a bag of expensive cosmetics — while traveling. In a pinch, she purchased inexpensive cosmetics at a pharmacy counter and was pleased with the results. Other women in corporate circles have shared similar discoveries with me. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">MAKEUP ARTIST: GOOD STUFF FOR LESS</span><br /><br />Stephen Farrar, a television and video makeup artist, agrees with their insights. As a beauty industry professional, he has peeked into the makeup kits of peers from around the country. Their tools of the trade typically include many inexpensive cosmetic products, including Max Factor, Almay, Covergirl and Maybelline, Farrar says. In fact, when it comes to mascara, the old pink-and-green Maybelline mascara wand ($4.99) ranks as an industry staple. <br /><br />“It doesn’t have to cost a lot to look good,” says Farrar, who provides makeup services to WPBT (Channel 2), the local PBS station. <br /><br />And if you’re addicted to one of the expensive department store or designer brands, Enjoy. But learn to streamline and shop for value, the makeup artist says.<br /><br />“There are some good products at the high-end of the market, but you don’t have to buy the whole line,” Farrar says.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1136255401462493542006-01-02T18:14:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.858-08:00Rich & Cheap Skin CreamsIf better skin care is one of your 2006 New Year resolutions, check out the Feb. issue of <span style="font-style:italic;">Real Simple</span>. That magazine has a great article on frugal, but effective skin creams for $15 or less.<br /><br /><br />The piece is called "More Balm for you Buck," by <span style="font-weight:bold;">Sue Chung</span>. <br /><br /><br />Here'a rundown of the some of the top picks from Real Simple. In this post, I'll just target the selections for "Super Dry" or "Mature Skin." Later this week, I'll feature products for other skin types. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">(For Super Dry, Aging Skin)</span><br /><br />For the face:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Pond's Mend & Defend</span> $9 (with grapeseed extracts and SPF15 protection)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer</span> SPF 15 (lightweight cream and a favorite of some dermatologists) $10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Burt's Bees Carrot Nutritive Night Creme</span> (features avocados, almonds and other rich goodies.)$12<br /><br /><br />For the body:<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Vaseline Intensive Care </span>Firming & Radiance Age-Defying Lotion $6.50<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cerave</span> Moisturizing Cream $15<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Nivea </span>Body Extra Enriched Lotion $5Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1134107565559508072005-12-08T21:41:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.804-08:00Mega Beauty Sale at Walgreen'sWow. I lucked out this week. Physicians Formula products are now 75 percent off at my local Walgreen's. This is an unusual "Mega-Savings Sale" until Dec. 29.<br /><br />The timing is perfect: The December issue of Harper's Bazaar ranked the Magic Cube Concealer from Physicians Formula as one of the best concealers. Normally, this little cube -- which is a compact square with a small mirror -- costs $5.89, but with the 75 percent discount sale, the price dropped to $1.47.<br /><br /><br />Here's a rundown of other sale items from Physicians Formula, which is an excellent, excellent line of makeup.<br /><br /><br />1. Matte Eyeshadow Quartet $1.62 (sale price) $6.49 (original)<br /><br />2. Instant Makeup Pencil (use wet as a foundation or dry as a concealer) $1.99 down from $7.99<br /><br />3. Lash in a Tube (that hot new mascara in a tube a la Bobbi Brown) $1.47 down from $5.89<br /><br />4. Eye Liner Pencil (with automatic swivel top) $1.37 down from $5.49<br /><br />5. Loose To Go Powder $2.97 (sale price) $11.99 (original)Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1133472173359135522005-12-01T13:18:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.747-08:00Supermodel Beauty Tips<span style="font-weight:bold;">Tips from Gisele and Makeup Artist Pat McGrath</span><br /><br />Y'all know the deal: Beauty magazines are pushing products. Plain & Simple: They want us to buy more stuff for our faces.<br /><br />But despite the product-pushing propaganda, there are lots of nuggets out there.<br /><br />For example, I clipped out page 162 from the Oct. issue of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Harper's Bazaar</span>. And if you can't find it in the library, here is my lip-line summary:<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Lip Brushes</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gisele Says</span>: Lip brushes are great for dotting on concealer. <span style="font-style:italic;">"The narrow point allows you to be very precise--much better than using your fingers."<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gisele Recommends</span>: A $14.50 Retractable Lip Brush from <span style="font-weight:bold;">Victoria's Secrets.<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Frugal Duchess Commentary</span>: Great tip! Precision is everything when you're trying to cover an ugly pimple or scar. <span style="font-style:italic;">HOWEVER</span>, at Shopzilla.com, I found a <span style="font-weight:bold;">Revlon</span> lip brush for $8.50 and I'm sure that if I shopped around just a little bit more, I could beat that price. I have also spotted lip brushes for as much as $36, so Gisele's selection is fairly frugal, but not the best bargain out there. <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">FACE PRIMER</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gisele Says</span>: <span style="font-style:italic;">"Nothing controls shine better than makeup primer."</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gisele Recommends</span>: Aura Science Airbrush Primer: $22<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Frugal Duchess Commentary</span>: She is so right about primer. (Controls shine and makes your pores look smaller.) However, I have a cheaper product pick. On that same page of Harper's Bazaar, maven makeup artist Pat McGrath raves about the two-step foundation offered by <span style="font-weight:bold;">CoverGirl </span>Outlast Liquid Makeup ($8.99). This two step-product includes a wonderful moisturizing primer, with a built-in sunscreen. (Several products for the price of one.) <br /><br />I have not tried the Aura Science Airbrush Primer, but I have tried the CoverGirl product. It works great; it's cheap and it's highly recommended by a celebrity makeup artist. McGrath says the CoverGirl product provides up to 10 hours of face time without that icky pancake look.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1133308398953866762005-11-29T15:32:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.689-08:00Cheap Mascara in a TupeHow much for mascara? Really?!? You can spend over $20 to make your lashes look thicker or you can whip out the cheap stuff and bat your eyes with the best of them.<br /><br />My personal favorite is <span style="font-weight:bold;">Maybelline Great Lash </span>[in the pink container], which usually costs under $5 and is the magic wand of choice for many makeup artists. This weekend (Black Friday weekend), I scored a double pack of Maybelline Great lash for $4.76 at Target's. That's less than $2.50 a unit.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the December issue of <span style="font-weight:bold;">For Me</span> magazine has a great feature (<span style="font-style:italic;">Cha-ching vs. Cheap</span>) comparing two containers of mascara that are packaged in tubes. On the high end, <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bobbi Brown</span> launched the concept of mascara in a tube for $19. And on the low-end, <span style="font-weight:bold;">Physicians Formula</span> -- which has a line of really great beauty products -- has its own version of mascara in a tube for $5.95.<br /><br />Here's the verdict from <span style="font-weight:bold;">For Me</span>:<br /><br />Physicians Formula creates a "fuller, more lashes look."<br /><br />Bobbi Brown Lash Glamour Lengthening Mascara produces "the illusion of super-long lashes." <br /><br />But don't be taken in by "innovative packaging...the mascaras inside [the tubes] are no different formulation-wise than those found in [standard] plastic cylinders," the article states (page 25).Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1132950271401767802005-11-25T12:08:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.634-08:00More on Washcloths and ExfoliationI'm obsessed with washcloths. The rough surface of terry cloth really works wonder for the skin. What a cheap and safe way to remove dead, dull, flaky cells from your face! I'm so loving this tip, which I've picked up from an old anti-aging book and a recent issue of <strong>First</strong> magazine.<br /><br /><em>For more details about how to exfoliate your face with a wash cloth, please go to my 11/21/05 post entitled: Outside the Box Beauty Tips.</em><br /><br />And now, last night, I picked up the December issue of <strong>Allure</strong> magazine and there was yet another piece about washcloths and exfoliation:<br /><br />In <strong>Beauty 101</strong> (p. 68) Allure offers this tip. <strong>STEP ONE</strong> for a great mouth: "Exofliate [lips] with a damp, soft washcloth before applying color."<br /><br />And then again on in the beauty "Cheat Sheet," the magazine editors offer the same advice: "Gently massage lips with a damp, soft washcloth for several secords to sweep away flakes."<br /><br />Rough terry cloth edges are keeping my face looking fresh and I'm collecting more evidence about this cheap exfoliating process. I'll ask a dermatologist for the 411.<br /><br /><br />Watch this space!Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1132699801105791022005-11-22T14:49:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.575-08:00Frugal Zit Zappers & Baby Wipes<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/1600/beach1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/320/beach1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong>Cheap Zit Zapper</strong><br /><br />Anyway: Weeks ago I came across this pimple-zapping tip in a women’s magazine called <strong>First</strong>. The Oct. 17th issue featured this somewhat bizarre recipe for zapping ugly red blemishes<br /><br />1. Apply an ice cube to the pimple. Hold ice on zit for 30 seconds.<br /><br />2. Press cotton ball soaked in eye drops liquid onto blemish. Hold in place for three (LONG) minutes.<br /><br />It really works! I tried it on a red (ugh!) blemish on my nose. Gone, Gone. The procedure also tested successfully on a teenager. <br /><br />Rationale: According to <span style="font-weight:bold;">First</span>, the 1-2 punch of ice and eye drops makes the blood vessels contract. This below the surface action reduces the size and redness of a pimple.<br /><br />Hey! It’s cheaper and more effective than other blemish solutions that I’ve tried.<br /><br /><br />Also: <strong>Baby Wipes are Awesome</strong><br /><br />Beauty industry insiders use wipes for many tasks during fashion photo shoots and I know why! Baby wipes are great for taking off makeup and they leave your skin soooo smooth.<br /><br />Consider the evidence: Baby wipes have to be strong enough to clean up diaper mess, but yet the cloth and solution have to be gentle enough for newborn and toddler skin. Bingo! Wipes are perfect for treating the faces of aging beauty queens, hormone-crazy teenagers and everyone in between.<br /><br />They're great on low-level acne as well. During Hurricane Wilma, my household was temporarily out of our favorite pimple pads, which cost about $3 to $5 a jar for a small container of circular pads.<br /><br />So, we used baby wipes. Our assorted acne issues cleared up pretty good! And the wipes were cheap and large. (Rip 'em in half for more mileage.) We used Pampers, but I'm sure the other brands and generic wipes will work just as well.<br /><br />I'll experiment. Hey, I'm fearless and frugal with my face.Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1132629815309669942005-11-21T19:04:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.516-08:00Outside the Box Beauty Tips<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/1600/beach1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6678/1653/320/beach1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Okay...here are some of the stranger beauty tips that I've collected and actually tried.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Weird Tip #1.</span> Exfoliating your skin with a clean towel. I actually read about this tip years ago in some anti-aging skin book. And then in a recent issue of <span style="font-weight:bold;">First</span> magazine, I stumbled on that same tip: The rough surface of a towel can help you shed rough skin.<br /><br />It works like this: Wash your face. Let it dry. Then using an UPWARD stroke, rub a wash cloth or towel against your face. It's important to stroke upwards because, according to the magazine, that upward motion lifts off the dead, dry skin patches that sit like roof shingles on your face. Be gentle. You're not sanding down rough wood.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Outcome</span>: I've been trying it for the last few days and it really works. My face actually feels softer and not so dry. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Weird Tip #2</span>: Why buy expensive Aloe-based skin treatments? Just buy an Aloe plant and cut off (small) snippets of the leaves. Open up the fat, juicy pulpy leaves. There's a gooey, slimy coating inside that really tightens, softens and moisturizes the skin. Let the gooey stuff dry and harden on your face. Then wash it off. A much older woman told me about this trick.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Outcome</span>: Wow! A friend who had not seen me for awhile asked what I was doing. I explained. I bet she went to the nursery to pick up her own Aloe plant. <br /><br />Of course, in sub-tropical Florida, Aloe plants are in abundance. But if you can't find one, count your blessings. Sure, fresh Aloe is great for pimples and as a face- tightening mask. But honey, the gooey pulp stuff smells like <span style="font-style:italic;">body odor</span>. My husband hates it when I give myself Aloe treatments. So, I apply the Aloe when I'm home alone.<br /><br />Well, I have lots of other tips:<br /><br />But, hey, nothing beats elbow grease. My skin looks best when I regularly exercise (and gets lots of rest and water.)Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19150684.post-1132510020650448942005-11-20T09:15:00.000-08:002006-10-29T08:56:09.447-08:00Frugal Beauty Product PicksSo vain, yet so thrifty!<br />That's the story of my face!<br /><br />For years, I threw thrift out the window. I was strictly a high-end girl. I purchased beauty products at luxurious day spas, upscale department stores and specialty shops.<br /><br />I did not blink my mascara-dipped lashes at the thought of a triple-digit price tag ($100 and higher) for a beauty item.<br /><br />Then one day in the face of higher debt and tight finances, I stared down my reflection with this tough question: <span style="font-style:italic;">Your money or Your Face</span>?<br /><br />Fortunately, we don't have to make that tough call. My very-downwardly mobile makeup bag and beauty bin are proof. You don't have to create (horrible, horrible) new money-worry wrinkles while smoothing out your face. <br /><br />Really. It doesn't have to cost a lot to feel beautiful. Besides real beauty comes from inside, the rest is just makeup and fiction.<br /><br />So on a regular basis, I will post <span style="font-weight:bold;">Frugal Beauty Tips</span> from makeup artists, magazines, books and real-women, who look great. I will also post info on sales, product reviews and other beauty nonsense that I love so much. I’m such a girly, girly.<br /><br /><br />With that in mind, I bring you a fabulous list from a summer issue of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Celebrity Living Weekly:</span><br /><br />"Big Buck$ vs. Little Buck$"<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Skin Hydration/Restoration</span><br />Big-Ticket Pick: $400 for AmorePacific Time Response Crème<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Low-Ticket Option: $13 Pond’s Time Rewind<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Skin Protection/Healing</span><br />Big-Ticket Pick: $1,200 Crème de la Mer<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Low-Ticket Option: $23 Good Skin All Firm Moisture<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Skin that Glows</span><br />Big-Ticket Pick: $500 Kanebo Sensai Ex La Creme <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Low-Ticket Option: $11 Dove Fresh Radiance Moisturizer</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Renew/De-stress<br /></span>Big-Ticket Pick: $470 Orlane Hypnotherapy<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Low-Ticket Option: $14 Palmer’s Skin Success Stress Cream<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Skin Smoother</span><br /> Big-Ticket Pick: $379 Dermagenetics DNA Night Cream<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Low-Ticket Option: $20 L’Oreal Wrinkle De-Crease SPF Lotion</span><br /><br />source: June 27, 2005 <span style="font-weight:bold;">Celebrity Living</span><br /><br /><br />That's enough for now. I have a few other other blogs to maintain:<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Frugal Duchess </span>(www.sharonhr.blogspot.com)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Driving Phobia</span> (www.drivingphobia.blogspot.com and<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Homeless in Miami</span> (www.homelessmiami.blogspot.com).<br /><br /><br />Thanks for reading my blog!Frugal Duchesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00505138013388396364noreply@blogger.com3