TANSXL-the results photo

8 Worst Drugstore Hair Products

Whether you spent 30 bucks or 99 cents on that shampoo or conditioner, it stinks when it doesn't work as well as it should. See the worst drugstore hair products now

This is a TotalBeauty.com hair care products article There's no better feeling than finding a hair care product that works like magic. But when a product doesn't deliver on its promises, we want to cry out "false advertising!" and hide our frizzy, unkempt hair under a paper bag. See what our readers think are the absolute worst drugstore hair products here. See reviews

No. 8: Garnier Fructis Style Fiber Gum Putty, $3.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.3

"If I use too much [of the putty] it will actually flatten my hair."

No. 7: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Defining Lotion, $7.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6

"It made my hair feel disgusting -- not soft at all. I threw it away after the second use."

No. 6: Frizz-Ease Straight Answer Straightening Spray, $9.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.6

"This spray weighed my hair down. Plus, my friend and I both agreed that it smelled like pencil shavings."

Want to see what was the worst? Click here!

Hey Gorgeous,
Quick update on my testing of the new spray self tanner with hyaluronic acid by TansXL. But first, a wee lesson in self tanners from Laura Bramble, author at eHow.
"Sunless tanners work because they contain an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA for short. DHA is a nontoxic simple sugar. It interacts with the amino acids in the skin, turning it brown in the process. Adding chemicals like glycine, histidine and lysine can add different tones to the base color achieved by DHA. This helps to give a more natural golden brown effect."
So, I got a great golden brown color after applying two spray coats of TansXL. Only challenge-is the smell. On day 2 after a heavy run and lots of sweating the smell coming off of me was fairly tart. Even after my shower I smelled like Paris Amour by Bath and Body Works and DHA. Great.
Alas, my tan looks good.
Get yours at http://www.tansxl.com/">www.tansxl.com

Read more: Why Do Self Tanners Make You Smell? eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_5566836_do-self-tanners-make-smell.html#ixzz1WdrWRqWM Special thanks to Laura Bramble who authored the article on eHow.
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Labor Day travel? Nature's Gate herbal blend hand cream in rose for the road!

6 Workouts for a Tighter Booty

Turns out you can turn that junk in your trunk into the toned, tight butt of your dreams without taking drastic measures

This is a TotalBeauty.com workouts for women article Did you know that your butt is actually the largest muscle in your body? It only makes sense to exercise it as much, if not more, than the other muscles you pay attention to. With these moves, you can get a tighter, more toned butt in no time. See workouts

Hey there Gorgeous!
Here I am on the set of the new web series for Makeup University. I am not travelling this holiday weekend as I continue to work on the episodes for the upcoming production dates.
But-what I do have in my purse that is so sumptuous and luxurious feeling is the new Nature's Gate herbal blend hand cream in rose.

It's paraben free, and 3 oz-so TSA approved for those of you who are jetting away on an airplane, pocket ready for train riders, will fit in the glove compartment on a boat, in the side pocket of a back pack for the hikers or in a purse of a web series producer like me!



Here are a few favorite reasons to try Nature's Gate products:
1. paraben free
2. cruelty free
3. phthalates free
4. synthetic fragrance fee
5. animal derived ingredients and animal testing free = VEGAN approved!
(I"m not a vegan and in fact I'm having an In'n'Out burger right now...)
Finally-the Nature's Gate products are high quality and easy to access for affordable prices-so head on down to the Walmarts and get you some for this Labor Day weekend pool party! Your skin will thank you!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Maya Water, Coola sunscreen plus AVON Extra Lasting makeups for Labor Day looks that last

Kim Kardashian's "Regal" Makeup -- Love It?

Did you love or hate Kim K's smoky wedding makeup? Weigh in now

This is a TotalBeauty.com wedding makeup article With all the comparisons between the reality star's wedding and the royal one in the UK, the question must be asked: Did you think her wedding makeup was "regal"? See Kim K's other makeup looks and tell us which one's your favorite. See looks

Hey Gorgeous!
Are you getting ready for the long Labor Day weekend?
There is still time to plan your beauty for good looks that last all day through the fun in the sun! http://www.avon.com
Try these products:
Such as the Avon Extra Lasting eye shadow, lipstick, lipgloss and foundation! I created a beachy look and wore it at the Mesa Sunsplash waterpark-and it survived several hours of chlorine!

Next-you are going to want to pack a sunscreen so why not pack one of the best for your body? Coola is broad spectrum and certified organic-which makes it good for you and good for the planet! Get yours at http://www.coolasuncare.com




Now this is the real skin saver, super hydrater and secret weapon for all ladies who take their anti-aging skin regime serious! This pure, refreshing white tea infused Norwegian thermal spa water is the must have item in your LABOR day weekend beauty bag. Whether you have too much sun, sand, or pina coladas-this refreshing mist that can help set makeup as well as plump dehydrated skin can keep you looking great! http://www.facebook.com/mayawater to learn more!

Enjoy this episode of the new Makeup University web series.

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Dixie bits because Grandma said so!

How to Treat Rosacea

Turns out you may have rosacea and not realize it. Find out how to treat and get rid of it for good

This is a TotalBeauty.com rosacea article Surprising stat of the day: Rosacea affects 14 million Americans -- not a small figure by any means. And the National Rosacea Society says that most people who suffer from the skin condition don't even know it. Find out if you have the signs of rosacea and see how to treat it with these expert tips. See tips

Hey there Gorgeous!
I love it when I find a good thing, and this hand made Grandma's recipe inspired line of soothing,
natural, body and beauty products by Dixie Lincoln-Nichols is just that!
I have been enjoying the coconut oil infused "skintoxicating" brown sugar scrub for the past week and it's perfect for sun dehydrated skin! Best of all, watch this short video of Dixie and her Grandma and the life lessons learned in the kitchen as a mentor passes down her secrets to the next generation. I'm looking forward to seeing more from Dixie Bits!

How to Extract Coconut Oil from Dixie Lincoln Nichols on Vimeo.

YBF of HSN, Obagie Medical Elastilash & more on episode 3 of Makeup University web series

How to Get the Wavy Hair You've Always Wanted

Perfect the tousled look just in time for the last few weeks of summer

This is a TotalBeauty.com wavy hair article The grass is always greener on the other side of the hair spectrum -- which means those of us with fine, pin-straight hair crave beach-y waves that look effortlessly gorgeous. So we went to the experts to give us a fool-proof tutorial on how to get beach-y waves. Now you don't have a reason not to try the look before summer ends. See how-tos

Hello Gorgeous!I hope you are enjoying the new format of the web series for the videos. Makeup University is now showing a 3 segment video focusing on beauty/health/positive self esteem versus the one segment on one particular item.Now, as of yesterday I have started the before and after photos for my 3 week test of the eyelash growing serum from Obagi Medical.

This eyelash rejuvenating serum is to grow in sparse lashes and thicken, then lengthen the ones that you already have. So enjoy this rather haunting and garish photo of my nose and look past it to see my eyelashes. Those are washed clean, free of makeup and ready for a 'before photo'! Another photo in a week, then again on the second and final on the third week of using the serum. Why so much? Because 21 days is
a cycle of the skin and hair.
Oooh...now here is the fun stunner of the story! These 3 lipglosses are the current color story from YBF of HSN.com. Oh these are so perfect for your 'Back to School' or Labor Day weekend travel. Snap 'em up quick because you know how fast things sell on HSN.com and if you love pink lip gloss like I do, you'll want to get these for right now looks as well as segueing into the Fall trend. Now, here is the current episode of the Makeup University web series. Watch, enjoy and comment if you like! Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

MTV VMA's Jessie J fashion/style for the show

I Tried a One-Day Detox -- Would You?

One beauty editor was assigned to follow a one-day detox plan. Read about her experience and find out if it's right for you

This is a TotalBeauty.com diet article Our bodies are exposed to toxins every day thanks to the polluted air we breathe, the hormone-injected foods we eat, and even the chemical-filled products we slather on our bodies. So it's logical that we should periodically cleanse our bodies from the inside out. But the question is: Which detox diet is right for you? We followed one editor as she tried a one-day plan. Read about her experience here. Read her diary

Hey Gorgeous! I love the style and musicality of Jessie J. Enjoy this short video of her and get ready to see some fashion on tonight's MTV VMA show! I have how to video's planned for this coming week to show you how to get the makeup looks-just in case you need to wear it out on your Labor Day weekend staycation! Enjoy~

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, Jessie J

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Paris Amour by Bath & Body Works for super Saturday fun

How to Get the Wavy Hair You've Always Wanted

Perfect the tousled look just in time for the last few weeks of summer

This is a TotalBeauty.com wavy hair article The grass is always greener on the other side of the hair spectrum -- which means those of us with fine, pin-straight hair crave beach-y waves that look effortlessly gorgeous. So we went to the experts to give us a fool-proof tutorial on how to get beach-y waves. Now you don't have a reason not to try the look before summer ends. See how-tos

Happy Saturday Gorgeous!
The new scent in the Signature collection for Bath and Body Works is called Paris Amour. Key fragrance notes are: French Tulips, Apple Blossoms and Pink Champagne. Maybe your are jet setting to the Eiffel Tower for your Labor Day weekend-or just hitting a staycation at a local resort; either way define the event with a new scent! The Paris Amour has a special limited edition "to go bag" and is also on special for buy 3 get 2 free. Shop online or at your local mall!
I liked the light floral scent, and in the Arizona heat-I'm keeping the body spray in the refrigerator so when I need a blast of cool I can also mix it with a sweet scent. Hey-don't take my word for it, go find out for yourself by testing it in store. Enjoy and Happy Saturday!

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Thank God it's Friday! Time for episode 2 of Makeup University web series

Summer Trend to Try: White Makeup

Make sure to try this hot trend before summer ends

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup trends article It may sound crazy, but using white makeup can bring depth to your dimensions and make your features pop -- that is, if you use the color correctly. Carmindy of "What Not to Wear" gives how-to tips that will help you see how wearable this color can be. Get her tips

Hey all! I hope you are enjoying the new format for the 'how to videos' on YouTube in our new web series layout. Enjoy this short video and be encouraged for the amazing weekend ahead of you!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Amika: oil treatment with sea buckthorn berry-just what Dr. Oz approved!

9 Hot New Fall Hairstyles

Want people to stop and stare at your new 'do this season? Check out fall 2011's hottest styles and get how-tos for them now

This is a TotalBeauty.com hairstyles article So you don't have a celebrity hairstylist at your beck and call to get the latest styles seen on the red carpet? No problem! With these tips you can try all of fall's prettiest looks right at home. Get how-tos

Hi Gorgeous!
I love finding a new product that is amazing and getting to share it with you! I especially love products made in the United States or in Israel and this is one of those products!
Amika argan oil for hair and everywhere is made in Israel. It's a sea buckthorn berry base with moega 7 and viatmin c then topped off and enriched with argan oil. It's for anti-friss and shine, pous hair nourishemnt -it's ffree of parabens and artifical colors making it safe for color treated hair. How about this-the box and bottle are beautiful plus the scent is Heavenly! I'm rubbing mine on the Mancub, myself and used the left overs on my hands to rub down my 2 fat dusty cats. Get yours and learn more at www.loveamika.com
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Vermont Organics, Gseries & then some in Makeup University webseries

13 Bad Habits That Make You Break Out

Can't figure out why you keep getting zits? The reason could be something you do every day

This is a TotalBeauty.com acne article Habits are hard to break, but if that habit is causing your acne, it's certainly worth trying. Check out these 13 everyday habits that can be contributing to your uninvited face guests -- and start changing things up now. Break habits

Hello Gorgeous and thanks for joining me!
The web series format for Makeup University
is launched!
Enjoy the video-before you go-here are the product details that you may be interested in.
The Vermont Organics Toothbrush Sanitizer is a
family dental hygiene must have! Learn more and find near you at www.vermontorganics.com



Saddle up your tri-bike or lace up your sneakers
because it is time for you to take charge of your
health! If you want more energy for everyday living it starts with fueling your body with good foods. For this season's competitions I am using
this affordable and easily accessable Gatorade made G Series for before/during/after workout nutrition. Try it today! Look for it in the drink section of your grocer or at Hi Health stores.


Finally-I love and live to encourage you! Watch the short video to get your wee daily dose of positive encouragement for you day!

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Makeup Designory makes a perfect Jada Pinkett Smith look

Get Sexy Legs in 4 Moves

We went to celebrity fitness consultant Ashley Borden to find out the 4 moves you need to get toned, lean, sexy legs now

This is a TotalBeauty.com workouts for women article Want Jennifer Aniston's legs -- but don't have her unlimited funds to spend on private yoga, pilates, spin classes, and personal trainers? These four moves are the only ones you need to get sexier legs -- fast. See routines

Hey Gorgeous!
See all the goodies in the picture to the right? That's the new Fall palette from Makeup Designory called Dr. Watson-and it is a rich textured and sumptuous color line up.
I used it recently to create a Jada Pinkett Smith look to send some positive encouragement her way as the tabloids have over stepped some boundaries and are gossipping wild stories about her marriage. Uncool! So enjoy this wee video and simple eye makeup style!

Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Jemma Kidd Pro-at Target for your budget and your beauty

11 Best (and Worst) Lip and Cheek Stains for Summer

You'd be surprised to find out which stains from high-end brands turned out to be doozies -- see them now

This is a TotalBeauty.com best and worst makeup products article Lip and cheek stains are the perfect solution if your makeup tends to melt off in the hot summer months -- but only if they're amazing. Readers say some finds from Benefit, Tarte, and CoverGirl left them glowing and rosy -- while others were big disappointments. Check out our best and worst lists now. See reviews

The Worst: No. 3: Laura Mercier Lip Stain, $20

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6.1

"OUCH! Please use this stuff if you like the sensation of your lips slowly trying to escape to your gum lines."

No. 2: CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain, $7.29

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 6

"I kept hearing great things about the lasting power of this product, but I got it in two different colors and it didn't last very long at all."

No. 1: Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain, $6.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 4.7

"Although this stain wasn't drying to my lips, the color didn't last long. Within the hour, it was already gone. A big disappointment."

Want to see the best stains now? Click here!

Hello Gorgeous!
This Jemma Kidd Pro eye concealer/brightener duo is amazing! I love the smooth, silky full coverage it gives-and as for me and another Arizona 116 degree day, it held up beautifully.

I've got a short video for you to demonstrate the effectiveness of Jemma Kidd products! Pick up yours at your local Target or visit her website for great free tutorials in makeup! Go to: http://www.jemmakidd.com


Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Lesters NYC-Back to School Fashion for Fall

The Worst Beauty Advice Your Mom Gave You

We trust mom with a lot of stuff -- but is she the best beauty guru? See the worst tips from moms now

This is a TotalBeauty.com beauty tips article Mother may know best when it comes to your playboy neighbor not being hubby material or how you'll feel differently about your love of pizza when you hit your 30s. But we've all had those precious moments in our formative years when mother passed on a beauty "tip" that you later realized was so, so wrong. Here are the biggest doozies. Read on

Hey Gorgeous! Back to School fashion is fun in the Fall weather of New York City. Now, prayers of peace and safety to those affected (scared out of their wits!!!) when the earthquake happened today. I've been in some earthquakes-and it's a feeling you never get used to. Now, Lesters is opening the internet store version of Lesters and you best get over their real quick to sign up for the $500 shopping spree! http://www.lesters.com/
Now...here's a lil story the New York Post ran on Lesters...go see, go sign up for the shopping spree and have some fun!
http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/fashion/shop_of_the_class_6EatYQv8cn7kVQ6DM48CfJ