Posts Tagged ‘skin’

fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream ~ Review

By Melody Iafelice on March 25th, 2013   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

 

 

Hello Gorgeous,

Last week I worked with a private client’s teen daughter and needed a gentle and lightweight moisturizer to address dehydration and for better makeup application when she wore it. While cruising the shelves at a Sephora, I came across the fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream.

FRESH Rose Hydrating Gel CreamFor a young teen with good skin, any skincare or makeup application should be kept minimal. I used this product as both her moisturizer and a prep for her makeup, taking advantage of the velvety texture of it to smoothly apply a sheer foundation.

What I thought: It smells delicate of rose. Looks rich and creamy, yet lightweight and velvety on the skin. I would suggest this to oily-combination skin types, skin types not requiring anti-aging, and when you just want something light in the summer. The brand claims it to “provide 24 hrs of significant moisture…”  (I don’t think any moisturizer feels like it’s working that long) Use 2x daily to see/feel best results. I liked the results as they met the requirements for my client.

 

 

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

 

*No product was sent for trial nor was I asked to review it. I use Sephora professionally as just one location of many to discover and shop for brands/products for my clients so that I can meet their beauty needs.

 

 

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{Amazing Skin & Hair care items for year round help}

By Melody Iafelice on March 19th, 2013   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

 

Hello Gorgeous,

Just about anything can set our skin and hair into a frenzy. From seasonal changes, travel and hormones to medications, our skin and hair may just need a little extra help from time to time. No need to change up what your using, just add a ‘booster’ to what you’re already using. Check out the video below and see some amazing items that can be used year round when your regular items aren’t enough and your skin and hair need some TLC.

 

Here is more info on each item shown and where to buy.

What beauty item(s) do you keep year round for that extra TLC?

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

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{Bioré® Makeup Remover Wipes ~Review}

By Melody Iafelice on January 5th, 2013   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

 

Hello Gorgeous,

I like a good makeup wipe, they are great for quickie makeup removal when you’re not able to stand at the bathroom sink, I’m not judging LOL.  While I don’t suggest makeup removal towelettes as your main source of makeup removal, I do believe every girl should have a pack as it’s better to remove some then none! Keep them handy in the bathroom as a first step cleanser for long-wearing makeup and a pack in your night stand drawer so you can just reach over with eyes closed, lay back give a quick removal before you pass out fall asleep and toss on the floor (you can pick it up in the morning)

 

I have no idea how I got these Bioré® ones as they weren’t sent to me nor did I buy them, must have come in a gift bag from an event I attended. Most wipes I’ve tried take off makeup (not the best for eyes)  but leave a ‘moisturizing’ greasy layer residue on my face. It feels like I have to rinse my skin off, defeating the purpose of a wipe.

These Bioré® wipes were not rough, removed makeup (where I wiped) and I didn’t feel dry afterwards. Best part…they didn’t leave that “I gotta rinse it”  residue behind either. These are the best ones I have tried to date! I do use another brand in my professional makeup kit and would definitely consider switching over to this brand! Find them at your local drugstore or Wal-Mart.

 

Happy Makeup Removing : )

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

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MOD Magazine~new portfolio work

By Melody Iafelice on October 22nd, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

Check out recent published work from MOD MAGAZINE.  Love working behind the scenes of a photo-shoot, especially when all players pull together in what seems like a magical dance. Each member moves in and around the set at what they do best and we flow to some imaginary music that only we can hear. Don’t get the wrong idea as BTS (behind the scenes) can be crazy but in a good way. We chat, laugh, and share thoughts and opinions all to reach the ultimate goal of a successful shoot, and above all, trust each others professional work. While we were all lucky on this shoot except a few glitches that were not detrimental to the day or result (like false lashes that refuse to hold, running last minute packages over to location) things can happen and egos have to be set aside, we just ride through it, help each other out and go with the flow.  Enjoy our work, so proud of what we did!!

Check out the fantastic layering of textures, fabrics and prints! The hair captures natural textures and expresses simplicity, while the makeup shows up clean radiant skin paired with a dark merlot shade of lip.

Thanks to the team xo

Tina Picard Photography,

Fashion Stylist: Erica Wark,   Stylist Assistants: Caroline and Delaney Holley,

Hair:  Kirsty MacDonald of Rinaldo’s Hair Designers and Spa,     Makeup: by Me ; )

Models:  Laura of: Models International Management,  Rose of: Angie’s Models & Talent

Ciao, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

 

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$plurge or $ave ~ Cleansing Oils

By Melody Iafelice on October 11th, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

 

Hello Gorgeous,

Cleansing oils, a one step wonder, a super-duper makeup remover, a______  ok, I’m done you get the idea.  A simple, great end of the day cleanser as it easily melts even waterproof and long wear makeup.  I find them to be non drying and gentle, as in no scrubbing at the skin because the product does the work.  Oh yes, I hear the cries “there is no way I’m putting that s*&! on my face…it’s sure to make me oilier/break me out”  Cleansing oils are designed to protect and preserve your natural skin lipids, without adding extra oil.  So read a little more, then you can still cry out say your bit in the comments below ; )   As always when it comes to beauty items it’s your choice and your wallet, so $plurge or $ave as you wish.

Pur Minerals Mineral Melt

     ($20 US 4oz  / $22 CAD 120ml)

Pur Minerals Mineral Melt

 This was the first cleansing oil I tried and got me over the “ain’t putting that stuff on my face” trauma. Now there is always a cleansing oil in my rotation of cleansers.  I like the non-petroleum base and more real natural oils, but on the other hand there are parabens listed, a concern for many. It’s amazing how these work, once you add water to start rinsing it becomes milky and no longer oily to the touch. A secret: I did use a cleanser after for the first few times to ease myself into this method, now I only wipe down my face with a wet cloth when done (especially closer to eyes) so you get rid of any ‘oily’ feel.  A one ‘recipe’ for all, and often the essential oils are far more compatible with oilier skin types than you thought.

In Canada: select Shoppers Drug Mart / The Shopping Channel

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oils   

 from$31 US 5.07 oz to $90 US 15.2oz depending on the size or version)

 

shown ~ I purchased the ‘High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil’ (5 other formulas available)

 I have always heard about the Shu Uemura cleaning oils and wanted to try this luxury brand made in Japan  (omg! you should see their false lashes) Ok gotta be honest here, I did not pay full retail as I found it at a beauty warehouse sale and for only $14 CAD for 3.37 oz./100ml  a great excuse to say yes to the oil! It works just as well and in the same way as the above cleansing oil. I love that they also have super sized bottles to choose from, a pump dispenser, and several formulas for different needs. So there is one that can be used for oily skin. The version I choose (pictured) contains mineral oil which isn’t a fave of mine. I feel it’s more a filler oil and for the regular prices I’d prefer it not be in there, but that’s just me.  Glad I tried it and can now scratch this item off my beauty bucket list! : )  PS I can’t use any cleansing oil while I have lash extensions as it makes the glue/bond soft and the lashes don’t last as long.

In Canada: select Holt Renfrew locations

What item or brand is on your Beauty Bucket List?        What is your secret splurge or save item?

 

Ciao ~ Until Next time

Melody xo

 

 

 

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Back to School Part 1~Skincare & Hair Care

By Melody Iafelice on August 27th, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

Hello Gorgeous Gals & Guys,

Most of us are officially in the zone of preparing for Back to School. It’s time to take a closer look at your personal care items.  What’s not working, old, and needs to be tossed? What needs replacing, updating or changed?  It’s about products that are easy to use, offer great results and require less time so you can streamline your daily routine.

Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash

Good skin care is essential  (no amount of makeup can hide uncared for skin)  Stress, bad eating habits, lack of sleep even hormones will play a role in how your skin looks.  Blast those blemishes and prevent more from happening with great pieces from Proactiv. This brand has been around awhile now and they have added new items to the line beyond their original Starter Kit.   Acne and breakouts don’t just happen on the face, they can show up on the body in the chest and back area. Reach for the  Deep Cleansing Wash , it exfoliates, but is gentle enough to use on the face. A perfect item for in the shower,  or the gym (post sweaty workout) to help clear up acne and prevent breakouts.  Plus they have more items that can be added in to your regular routine when you need a little more targeted care.

 

 

Once you are using skin products regularly, it’s ok to use make-up to hide some of the un-eveness or redness from breakouts. You’ll want to use something that doesn’t contribute to clogged pores and possible irritation. What’s not in your make-up is important.  The Pur Minerals 4 in 1 Mineral Powder is your foundation, concealer, finishing powder and SPF in a compact.  It’s gluten, talc, alcohol and paraben free and contains vitamin E and organic shea butter.  It’s quick and so easy to use and from my own experience,  you can layer it a little bit to hide stubborn area.  (over layering too much of any foundation product can lead to a cakey look) It feels comfortable on the skin, not smothered. Just be sure to make a practice of washing your makeup off at night, don’t give any reason for your skin to misbehave on you. This is great for all skin types.

 

 

WEN Cleansing Conditioner will be your hair’s new best friend. Eliminate all those bottles, lotions and potions and trim down the time and effort of your hair care routine. This ain’t no regular shampoo, in fact its not even shampoo as the name suggests, it’s a cleansing conditioner. A unique concept of a one bottle, one step deep cleanser and conditioner that is loaded with natural botanicals and oils,  that will leave your hair soft, shiny and healthier.  This one is amazing for the gals who can’t live without the hair dryer or heat styling tools.  For you guys, the idea of one bottle that really does keep your hair in great conditon is a good one, right? WEN also has starter kits with additional products in the collection to help further treat and style your hair. Honestly, I didn’t believe it either until I tried it myself.  It’s amazing stuff!

Goody Spin Pins

Some days you just don’t have time to do your ‘do’.  No big deal, a day off from cleaning and heat styling is good once in awhile.  You can still look put together and not like you just rolled out of bed (even if you did) Goody hair accessories are amazing. They seem to have understood that not all of us are hair masters and made items to make us feel like we are. Simple to use tools that don’t require a ‘hair accessories for dummies’ book.  The Goody Spin Pins are my favourite ones for putting my hair up into a stylish messy bun and come in two colours for light and dark hair, as well as two sizes for long hair and for fine/shorter hair. Worth picking up an extra set.    

 For the shorter hair styles, the Goody Double Wear elastic hair bands are quick and easy, chic-ly pulling back your hair and adding a quick spritz of hair spray over the rest for sexy tousled look.  (They also double up as a necklace, one day I left home with one around my neck by accident and ended up wearing it on-air, did you see it?)

Ciao, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

 

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Video for $plurge or $ave? ~ Summer Beauty Essentials

By Melody Iafelice on May 31st, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

 

Hello Gorgeous Gals,

Here is the CTV Morning Live TV segment that features yesterdays blog post items.

I confessed admitted to a personal choice in the video after saying I wouldn’t (I’d squeal under a bright light in a cold interrogation room LOL)

So here’s the rest of my picks:

  • Clarins Suncare ($34 CAD)for myself  but I would take the L’Oreal Ombrelle ($13.97 CAD) for the kids, as you use way to much every summer to pay top dollar for it ; )
  • Guerlain Terracotta 4 Seasons Bronzer Blew the budget on this one ($82 CAD) but the matte finish and multi-shades truly made it an ‘adjustable’ (use light or dark shades depending on season/level of existing tan) year round item. You can always add a hi-lighter on top to give a subtle shimmer.
  • L’Oreal Voluminous waterproof, I don’t like to pay high prices for mascara and for an item that I may use a handful of times during the summer, that would be $$ down the drain! It’s was under $7 CAD.
  • Maybelline Baby Lips, feels great on, love the subtle tint and can’t beat SPF 20, the price (under $7 CAD)  made it easy to own several shades and always have one on hand.

 

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

 

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Beauty Gifts (not just) for Mother’s Day

By Melody Iafelice on May 4th, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

Hello Gorgeous Gals & Beauty Lovers,

Here are a few fantastic gift ideas for Mother’s Day. They’re also amazing for a bride-to-be, bridesmaids or any FAB woman you know, including yourself of course ; )          I found them all at Sephora.

Alterna Bamboo Color Care UV+ Fluid (75ml $27.50 CAD)

Love the idea of UVA/UVB protection for hair. This lightweight fluid helps to shield hair with a UVA/UVB barrier to fade-proof colour, while adding in vibrancy & multi-dimensional shine. As a gal who colours her hair, proctecting it from fading is important. Usage: Apply it alone or mix with your fave styling product on towel dryed hair or use after styling as a shine enhancer.

fresh  Rose Face Mask (100ml $63.00 CAD)

 Every once in awhile our facial skin needs extra hydration regardless of the season, age or skin type. This hydrating and toning treatment is made to rejuvenate and relax the skin with a much needed moisture infusion made up of crushed rose petals that just melt into the skin, among other benefits and ingredients. It looks like one of Granny’s homemade recipes. Usage: Just apply with your fingers onto cleansed skin, wait 5-10 minutes then rinse off. Seeing as it doesn’t dry, apply the mask then relax in a hot bath.

fresh SAKE BATH  (400ml $92.00  CAD)

Three words:…I want this!!!            ”Inspired by the Japanese Geisha bathing ritual of perfuming baths with real peaches, this Fresh Rice Sake Bath includes an infusion of exquisite fruit and 38% real sake for an unparalleled sensorial experience. This delicately foaming, therapeutic soak increases circulation and body temperature, inducing a purifying sweat to eliminate toxins. Sake also contains enzymes that hydrate and smooth the skin’s appearance. It is further enriched with pine extract, which promotes easy breathing and pure ginger to render muscles pliable and relaxed“

      Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub (150g $29.00CAD

Caudalie Foot Cream (75ml $15.00CAD)

While this signature, natural wine-inspired scrub is made for the body as it provides strong exfoliation, drains, softens and nourishes the skin while adding in intense hydration. It also works magic in smoothing feet.

Follow with the ultra-healing foot cream for pretty feet whenever you want. You’ll get a dozen (maybe more) foot scrubs out of this jar (only a little bit is needed) Usage: Soak feet if you can for 5-10 minutes. Apply a small amount of scrub into palms of hands, then massage onto feet. If the scrub feels ‘dry’, simply wet hands and continue massaging. Rinse, pat dry. Work in the foot cream.

Sephora Favourites Fragrance Samplers ($45.00CAD/set)

Fragrance is a wonderful and personal gift. Yet choosing for someone else can be a challenge. You can give the luxury of fragrance and still leave the choice up to her, just try either of these sets: The Fresh Florals or The Captivators. Both have five deluxe samples that give her enough to really discover a new scent and they make for great travel companions.

Happy Shopping!!!

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time, Melody xo

 

 

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Fun & Frivolous Friday’s ~ a past hair do

By Melody Iafelice on April 20th, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

Hello Gorgeous Gals & Beauty Lovers,

It’s FRIDAY…let’s have a little fun. As I was going though some past TV show segments I came across some with my pixie haircut, oh my, the ever changing hair of Melody, made me smile… That’s my Friday fun!!
Join myself and hostess extrordinaire, TL Rader as we chat skincare facial treatments at Murale. It was filmed quite awhile back, however the basic information has remained the same.

*Murale now offers online shopping

Ciao Bellas,
Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

 

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TRIA Skin Perfecting Blue Light ~ A highly effective acne treatment

By Melody Iafelice on April 19th, 2012   /   Uncategorized   /   Leave a comment

PIMPLES, ZITS, ACNE, BLEMISHES, SPOTS, BLACKHEADS, WHITEHEADS.

What a headline and not a pretty topic.  As a makeup artist, it’s the #1 skin issue I work with and it’s not just for teens, I have a high number of adult clients that deal with it too! In some cases, acne can be downright emotional, affecting confidence levels and self-esteem.

It’s my job and mission as a makeup artist,  to conceal it and disguise the scarring and discoloration. Makeup can really help restore confidence and comfort to get through the day. However, when the makeup is removed there is the same skin underneath that needs help. If you are in a constant state of frustration due to trial and experiment after another of harsh products and methods of treating acne and breakouts, then I think you should take a look at this…

This is my honest to goodness opinion of the TRIA Skin Perfecting Blue Light  $245CAD (I own their Laser Hair Removal device too that gives fantastic results.)  I have occasional breakouts, but it was my teen (who is less bothered by it than I am) with breakouts and patch of acne that could benefit from it and heck, why not guinea pig the teen right? Plus it would be easier to study, view and report my findings. Here’s how it went down…literally! Let’s start the 2 week  introduction:

1~Two weeks is the time frame that TRIA promotes you will see changes. My teen uses a well known acne skincare line, but only the exfoliating cleanser and 1x/day (anything more is very drying/irritating to the skin) Less gentle formulas didn’t help with the blemishes.

2~His skincare routine was not changed. He washes his face every night and pats dry. It’s so easy to use. I simply touched  the TRIA to the skin (it turns on) and gently glided it all over the face for the full 5 minutes (you can use 2x/day at 2.5 minutes) giving a little extra time to the patch of acne. It shuts off at 5 minutes.

3~Ah yes, busy lives means there were a couple of days missed using the TRIA during the 2 weeks. Yet the changes were noticeably better.  There were a few active blemishes at the start, and instead of continuing to flare up I could see them shrinking. The lone breakouts were not happening as much and even the ‘angry’ redness of the acne was reduced. The skin over all had a much better, fresher appearance.

4~There were considerable changes within the first 2 weeks, just as TRIA had promised. Definitely worth continuing. Life is busy and he forgets to use it sometimes, but you can pick it up right were you left off. The acne patch has never gone back to what he started with and continues to improve. In my humble opinion, this was the first acne ‘treatment’ that showed such great changes without the torture of experimenting with another skin care line or prescription.  Truly a superior product towards winning the fight against acne.

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

 

 

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