Pick of the Day - Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation.

I seem to have a problem with mineral powder foundations making me get red and itchy, but I have not given up hope in finding one that works for me just yet. This is definitely one I want to try and needs to be on our mineral makeup radar. This is Elizabeth Arden's Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation with SPF 20.

This ingenious makeup takes the mess out of loose powder mineral makeup and gives you the purest, non-drying, perfect application. With its new fresh ground technology, just twist, swirl, tap and apply for pure perfection every time. Fresh ground. No waste. No mess. This powder comes in an easy grinder compact so you control just the amount of coverage you need. Turn to release a fresh layer of microlight powder with each application and grind precisely the amount you want to use. No more powder everywhere.

Bonnie Beer, Vice President of Global Color Marketing for Elizabeth Arden, describes the inspiration for the new formula: "When we developed Pure Finish, we wanted to create a new, innovative approach to minerals. Of course we wanted to provide a luxurious and non-drying formula for our consumer as well as address her concerns about mess, waste and purity. With its built-in grinder, we offer the ability to grind a single use application each day, like fresh ground coffee. That means she is getting the freshest, purest product each time with no waste or mess. It's pure perfection."

Inside the formula:
Sea Water Minerals: Sea water contains all the elements present in the human body, so it is especially compatible with skin. It’s rich in calcium and magnesium, essential elements that support skin’s own natural mineral equilibrium to strengthen skin’s appearance.
Mica: Adds luminosity and reflects light for a soft focus look.
Silica: Spherical powder gives a smooth feel and helps soften imperfections.
Squalane: Delivers moisturizing benefits.
Magnesium myristate: Creates a soft, luxurious texture.
Vitamins A, C and E: Condition skin and help protect against environmental assaults.
Aloe: Soothing and moisturizing
Titanium Dioxide: a mineral that provides natural sun protection.

Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation is available in eight Pure Finish Shades at Elizabeth Arden counters and online for $37.50.

Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation

CoverGirl and Olay Simply Ageless Foundation: Opening Instructions and Usage Tips.

I don't think I have ever received as many e-mails as I have before now than with the questions I have been receiving about Simply Ageless, the new foundation from CoverGirl and Olay. I told you about this foundation innovation just before the holidays and it seems as though many of you have purchased and have questions. The number one question I get is, "How do I open this?". So I went to CoverGirl and have the information for you right here. 

I have discovered not only how to open the compact itself, but found some great tips on how to use this as well.

First, to open the product. There are two parts to the compact. The top part, which contains the actual foundation, and the bottom part that contains the sponge.

The bottom simply flips open to obtain the sponge, and lets you keep it there when not in use.

To open the top part, you need to twist the large clear lid off of the jar. It only takes one turn and it will open. The lid might be on tight, but it will definitely open with not too much effort. Remember, righty-tighty, lefty-loosey: Turn it to the left to open, to the right to close.

To apply the foundation, simply smooth the sponge across the compact to blend the products together and apply. The white color will never ever change the color of the foundation. It is just the special process by which the products were made to work in conjunction with each other. If you want to see it in action, check out this video with CoverGirl Makeup Artist Molly Stern, as she uses a wedge sponge to apply it to a model. To get a softer more sheer finish, dampen the sponge with water before applying.

Pick of the Day - LAVANILA The Healthy Lipshine Trio.

I am in love with the LAVANILA Vanilla Coconut fragrance spray and it makes me wanting more. This Lip Shine Trio will have me licking my lips while discovering more great natural vanilla goodness.

This set, on sale for just $20 at Sephora.com, contains the following:

• Vanilla Coconut Lip Shine
• Pure Vanilla Lip Shine
• Vanilla Grapefruit Lip Shine

The lippies are made with 100% pure apricot, jojoba, and sunflower oil to keep lips healthy while delivering a gorgeous shine with a hint of color. Infused with antioxidants to nourish with Shea Butter, essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to help seal in the moisture, while protecting lips from environmental stressors and even help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

LAVANILA The Healthy Lip Shine Trio