May 1, 2018

Shilpi Agarwal, M.D. & Belli Beauty Tips For Choosing The Right Ingredients

Shilpi Agarwal, M.D

Shilpi Agarwal, M.D

Shilpi Agarwal, M.D. is a medical advisor to Belli Beauty, a line of skin care products specifically formulated to exclude ingredients that studies show to have even remote connections to birth defects, miscarriage, etc. The board-certified family medicine practitioner is also a self-described beauty junkie and ingredients nerd.

According to Dr. Agarwal, you don’t have to give up premium, luxurious skin care products. It’s just a matter of choosing the right ingredients and excluding others.  Here are a few of her tips:

  • Be picky for a purpose. Look for products with no phthalates, paraben preservatives, artificial dyes and fragrances.
  • Avoid retinoids. Oral retinoids have been associated with birth defects, and while there’s no hard proof that topical ones are harmful, most doctors agree it is best to err on the side of caution.
  • Re-think your acne products. Common acne fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are no-no’s during pregnancy and lactation. The irony, of course, is that pregnancy causes many women (even those who have never had acne) to break out. Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash uses lactic acid, an ingredient that occurs naturally in the body.
  • Don’t forget the sunscreen, but avoid chemical-based versions. Look for one that offers mineral-based broad spectrum UVB and UVA protection, like Belli’s Pure Radiance Facial Sunscreen. It also hydrates the skin, so it helps you downsize your beauty regimen.
  • A mani/pedi is a great way to pamper yourself during pregnancy, but insist on polishes that are “triple-free,” or that contain no DBP, toluene, or formaldehyde.
  • When in doubt, consult your ob/gyn as to which skin care and cosmetic ingredients are safe for you and baby during this important time.

 

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November 27, 2017

It’s a Glam Thing “Beauty’s Best” Holiday 2017 Civilized Cosmetics Liquid Lip Suede

Enya Flack It's a Glam Thing

Enya Flack, It’s a Glam Thing with Civilized Cosmetics Liquid Lip Suede

 

It's a Glam Thing Beauty's Best Holiday 2017award-winner-holiday-2017

It’s a Glam Thing “Beauty’s Best” Holiday 2017

Civilized Cosmetics Liquid Lip Suede

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October 2, 2017

Donna’s on-the-go beauty kit

These are miniature versions of roller lash mascara & Nars orgasm blush

I need an easy way to keep myself fresh with small amounts of products that I need at any given time

Donna Spangler Actress & Producer

As an actress, producer & business woman, I am often on the go.  Weather it is on a formal trip or just a day trip, I need to have my beauty items handy to look & feel my best.  When we are on the road or going places where we may need to primp or completely do our makeup or freshen up, it is great to be prepared with a little beauty kit with all the essentials needed to look your best. The problem is taking everything you need in normal size containers you may need a suitcase. I have come up with a solution for this!
Donna’s on-the-go beauty kit made with samples

Beauty kit

ON THE GO BEAUTY KIT

In today’s world, we want to look our best at all times with the least amount of effort. I have come up with essentials every girl should have on hand, so you will be able to look fresh whether you are on the go, staying overnight with your boyfriend or simply need a touch up. Stash these necessities in your purse, and you will always be prepared.

I love samples. It gives me a chance to try high-end products of all sorts. Since you receive ample amounts in small packaging, you can make a full-on beauty kit to haul along in your purse. This can be very effective, especially when you may be out somewhere away from your packed arsenal of at home products.

First, you need a case for your makeshift beauty kit. It should be something you can fit easily into your purse. I used a handy foldable holder that I had received from a business flight, but you can also get a makeup holder at the 99 cents store or any drugstore. Just make sure it is somewhat flat and can be comfortably stowed in your purse.

Next comes the fun part. You need to get the ingredients to put into your kit. Take a trip to the department store and get samples of makeup base that fits your color, creams, perfumes, liner, mascara, gloss or whatever useful items you can find. I like the samples that are in flat packets because they are easy to fit into the kit. The other alternative is to have the salesperson make samples for you. High-end lines usually have tiny plastic containers the size of a quarter with tightly sealed lids that will work for your kit as well. Gather all the essentials possible in one visit.

You can also gather the beauty freebies attained through larger makeup purchases. These items tend to be smaller and can be easily stored in your kit. Figure out when makeup lines are offering free gifts, and keep track any ‘points’ you’ve accumulated (Sephora’s point system gives spectacular yet small gifts). Sephora also sells small beauty items as you are standing in line which are great for your beauty kit as there is everything from small hairspray and mascara to pint size foundation.

Add a sample perfume of your choice. I recommend a black or brown eye pencil, earth tone shadow, sample mascara (I like ARMANI – and they are small!). If desired, throw in a couple of packages of Advil for those emergency days. Remember one feminine product (tampon), and put in a flat comb and hair band so that you can tie back your hair when you wash your face. A few Q tips and cotton balls are a must – store them in a tiny sealable baggy.

Pick up some shine eraser sheets (Elf Brand makes a great one). Get a pocket-sized toothpaste and
toothbrush. I have

Dental Floss

gotten these items in hotels as well as in airline kits, or you may already have a few saved. Also add a small dental floss or put two or three dental claws into the kit.

You can also add any samples or small packed products that you think you may need. Go to the section in the drug store where they have the samples. Other items to consider are razors, baby wipe samples, mouthwash, face wash, etc

I also like collecting hotel items because they can be used in your kit. When it is put together, it should supply you with what you need for one day or night out. It is great if you are spending the night at a friend’s house and want to appear fresh without bringing a suitcase.

You can keep your kit in your purse or car so you will be prepared to look, smell and feel your best at all times. This inexpensive condensed beauty kit is incredibly handy, and you will be glad you took the time to have it constantly within your reach. Knowing you are prepared to wow in any situation will give you a priceless piece of mind.


ON-THE-GO BEAUTY KIT

6 Q tips, 2 cotton balls, samples of eye makeup remover or cream to remove makeup, and tissues (there is nothing worse than running eyes at the end of a night. These essentials can fix this pesky problem)

Put the cotton balls, Q tips and tissues into a small sealable plastic baggie

One black liner to re-apply for later

One black or brown mascara

Brown or earth toned eye shadow

Blush in your favorite color (I like NARS orgasm), brush for application

Your favorite color lip liner

Lighter lip gloss to go over liner

Add a few samples of foundation in your color and bolting powder paper

Get some perfume samples perfect for your kit

Small tube toothpaste, toothbrush, floss and gargle (Remember, these should all be sample sizes)

1 feminine product, small comb, ponytail holder and package of Advil

With this kit, you will be ready for your on-the-go life and always look your best!

There are also mini flat irons & curling that are as tiny as a few inches long.

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September 18, 2017

Rhyme time work out by Elizabeth Colen

Your Carolina with Jack & Mega

As seen on Your Carolina with Jack & Megan

 

VIDEO

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September 17, 2017

Elizabeth Colen “Nursery Rhyme” Work out on Your Carolina with Jack and Megan

Mom and baby

Use a Round restriction band

 

(Workouts dedicated to Moms to be and new moms.)

 

“Pat-a-Cake” Workout

 

Cross band, hold band between thumb and forefinger start with hands together and push right hand outcross to the left side and back to center, left hand across to right side and back to center.  Do it to the rhythm of:

 

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man.

Bake me a cake as fast as you can

Roll it, pat it, mark it with a “B”

And put it in the oven for baby and me!

 

Repeat 3-5 times

 

The ” Wheels on the Bus” Workout

 

Place band just above elbows hold arms straight out shoulder width apart.

Bring fist together then roll them to the rhythm of:

 

The wheels on the bus go round and round,

round and round,

round and round.

The wheels on the bus go round and round,

all day long

 

Move right into the next exercise:

 

Place band just above elbows hold arms straight out shoulder width apart.

Bring hands together like in prayer then bring elbows up shoulder height.

Bring elbows together then lift elbows like opening a book.  (You can do this the the rhythm of:

 

The wipers on the bus go Swish, swish, swish;

Swish, swish, swish;

Swish, swish, swish.

The wipers on the bus go Swish, swish, swish,

all day long

 

Repeat 3-5 times

 

You can do this workout standing, seated in a chair or seated on the wall (working those legs)

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September 17, 2017

Enya’s Timeless beauty products

Heather Marianna

Heather Marianna, Beauty Kitchen

 

Recently a top beauty magazine took the phrase “anti-aging” off of its pages, forever!

After all, what is so wrong with aging?! We all do it. We don’t have a choice and just ask us – we mature women feel better and look better than ever!

We are all about Pro aging and we have brought along products that you’ll find in your teens beauty drawer and Moms and Grandma’s too!

 

Product 1:

Beauty Kitchen’s Charcoal Sheet Face Mask by Heather Marianna a popular YouTube beauty blogger.

It is perfect for women of all ages who want to detoxify their skin from pore-clogging environmental toxins, dirt, makeup and debris.  The activated charcoal in the mask acts like a magnet and draws out impurities for a brighter complexion.

Leave it on for 20-30 minutes once a week you can even fall asleep in it!  $14.50 www.HeatherMarianna.TV

 

Product 2: Petal Fresh Lavender Bath & Shower Gel

Look in the bathroom or shower of women of any age and you will most certainly find a shower gel! This lavender Shower Gel is made with 100% pure natural ingredients and has a lovely aroma. $8.25 www.petalfresh.com

 

Product 3:

BCL Spa 100% Pure Grape Seed Oil. (Oils are all the rage right now). Women of all ages have sensitive skin and this is a great nourishing Oil for the sensitive skin type. You can use it on your face, body, it won’t clog pores or cause break outs. You can even use it on your hair. www.bclspa.com

 

Product 4: Judith August “The Everything Pencil Deluxe”

Every female needs a concealer pencil for whenever they feel a need to hide small imperfections such as under eye circles, broken capillaries, bruises, pimples and more.  Judith August has recently introduced a bigger pencil with Vitamin C added! $16 www.judithaugustcosmetics.com

 


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July 18, 2017

WBTV with John, Christine, me and some Summer Cool products!

 

 

Enya Flack WBTV christine sperow

hansderma.com

2minuteclub.com

osmosisskincare.com

bclspa.com (Available at select Beauty Supply stores, spas ans salons)

dove.com

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June 26, 2017

GET THE JULY 4TH FESTIVITIES STARTED WITH LAUREN B. BEAUTY

LAUREN B. BEAUTY POLO LOUNGE PUNCH

When red seems too expected, this clear, deep burgundy rises to the occasion. Paint it on your nails for a flattering, youthful, classic-with-a-twist effect.

LAUREN B. BEAUTY HOLLYWOODLAND

Pure white has a beautiful simplicity. But what’s best about this crisp-as-a-cotton-sheet hue is its wonderful versatility. It makes a great primer so colors pop, yet it can stand alone for a cool, punk-rock effect. It’s also brilliant on fingertips or for almost any kind of nail art.

Lauren B. Beauty PCH

This stunning freshness of opaque cobalt blue hue is tinged with purple undertones, festive, on-trend and instantly lifts your mood.

 

Available at Laurenbbeauty.com for $18

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June 2, 2017

Check out Freebeautyevents.com for free gifts and prizes.

Don’t forget to check out freebeautyevents.com for free makeovers, free samples and a chance to win beauty products in their monthly contest.

Details on the June Beauty Basket Giveaway:
This month our basket includes products from Cantu, Rimmel, TRESemme, Nexxus, Maybelline, Neutrogena, Clean & Clear, Hawaiian Tropic and more! The Contest runs from now through 6/30/17, winners will be chosen on 7/10/2017 and notified by 7/15/2017. We want to encourage readers to go to our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FreeBeautyEvents/app/355270434639042/) and like us, then enter to win on our page. They can also enter on our website at http://www.freebeautyevents.com/contest
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May 28, 2017

Donna’s Beauty Check List

I am a mature woman and have dealt with many of the things that can make one appear less beautiful and older if they are not addressed. That being said, I put together a list of beauty items that can help a woman look both youthful and healthy, no matter her age.  In my next articles I will address how to achieve the below list in detail.

Donna Spangler actress/ Producer

  • Donna’s Beauty Checklist
    Face
    How is your skin? Examine it. Is it smooth? Acne? Hydrated? Evenly toned? Dry? Flaky? Sun damage? If your skin is heavily damaged, you might want to consider a light chemical peel.
    How are your eyes? Red? Clear? Puffy? Circles?
    How are your brows? Are they bushy or trimmed well? Coloring?
    Are your lips plump and even? Chapped?
    Any facial hair? A simple laser treatment will take care of this evil.  Also, plucking or buying an inexpensive facial hair remover is an option as there are many on the market today.
    Lashes – Are they lush and healthy or sparse and short?
    Makeup – wearing too much can be extremely off-putting. Learn the perfect amount to highlight your face. Enlist the help of a friend or professional if you need guidance. There are also some great makeup videos on YouTube.
    Hair
    Is your hair healthy? Thick? Well-groomed?
    Is the color rich and flattering to your complexion? Do you have roots?
    Is the style up-to-date and becoming? Split ends? Frizz?
    Is it shiny or dull?

    Thick healthy hair or the appearance of is important

    This is my body at 54 years old! I am quite prod as I work out 3 to 4 days a week for about 1 hour in the morning!

Body
Is your body fit? Too heavy or too thin?
Is your muscle tone lacking?
Is your body skin sagging?
Do you have discolorations on your body?
Are your fingernails and toe nails groomed?
Are you in proportion? Top and bottom?
Skin color – way too tan/pale?
Is your skin dry and flaky?
Body hair?

Hygiene
Are your teeth clean, brushed and smelling good?

Are your teeth yellow? Missing? Stained? In need of orthodontics? Teeth are crucial to a beautiful face.
Have you showered?
Is your hair clean, groomed well?
Are your clothes pressed, well thought out and appropriate for where you will be going?
Next take a look at your overall package. Look at yourself honestly and write down the things you like and the things that you would like to work on. This may be painful as no one wants to face their flaws, but in order to change something you don’t like, it is essential to address it first.

After your candid evaluation, you need to make a list of your goals and objectives both physically and mentally. Set realistic goals, and give yourself a timeframe. I like to make both short and long-term goals and reward myself for each accomplishment as I make it. Great satisfaction comes from achieving these goals and you will feel so much better about yourself as progress is made.

“I plan on being bikini ready even into my 80’s”  – Donna Spangler

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