Top 5 Count Down of 2015 Best Products!

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Whoa!
The final day of 2015! Can you believe it? Where did the year go? 
Personally, I feel like the  year went by in a day. So much happened. Some good. Some not so good.

Going forward, I'm ready for the best year ever. Though I usually feel that way, this time, there is something extra special about it. I hope you will join me as Makeup University and I go boldly into our tenth year together!

Now, here is my Top 5 Count Down of my all time favorite products that I met this year and why I love them!

#5: Rituals Sakura Spring Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom foaming shower oil 

OMG. This is the product that smells amazing, goes on like silk, hydrates skin, absorbs into the skin and lasts. I love this. It's a blog sample that I continue to buy! Full story here:

http://makeupuniversity.blogspot.com/2015/04/rituals-sakura-spring-organic-rice-milk.html

#4 Mastey Shampoo & Conditioner

When I had the bright idea to highlight my  dark hair, mind you, my colored dark hair, at home, this is the product that took my bleached and damaged cuticle back to health. Love this hair care line!
Full story here: http://makeupuniversity.blogspot.com/2015/08/mastey-paris-color-protection.html

 
#3 Smashbox Shape Matters Palette

I have never done an "official" review of this product that I received as a gift from an Ipsy Thirsty Thursday event with Smashbox. Though, I love it. It's primarily the only thing I travel with now for my personal color when on set and I've done several videos and looks using it. It's the best $55 you will spend! For gals who travel or do a lot of ' home- to work- to events after-and travel' this is the beauty tool for you!
 Read more here:

 http://makeupuniversity.blogspot.com/2015/11/beautyview-with-leslie-kies-how-to-get.html

#2 Versace Bright Crystal

Ok, it's no secret. I am a fragrance lover! Perfume junkie! Give me the french florals and some spicey orientals!  This was a new fragrance to me this year and it is now a staple and favorite. I have a dupe video on it here... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jObkYPQ7xaw   and a lil story including it here...
http://makeupuniversity.blogspot.com/2015/05/top-ten-beauty-items-in-my-generation.html

Basically, it's a staple in my travel vanity!

Finally...drum roll please...I'm a huge fan of Murad and after visiting the spa in El Segundo I'm a triple fan! For me, it's effective and easily accessible skincare with a system that works interchangeably. This year they released a new anti-aging acne line and it's perfect for using when you want to address fine lines at the same time you heal a hormonal break out.

#1 Murad Anti-aging acne skincare line

 
 Oh ladies who travel...this product is your friend! I find when I travel  between Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, abroad and home, this is the product that lets me address the pimple brought on by the stress of travel and smoggy air mixed with lack of sleep and poor food choices!

I love it! Read more here: http://makeupuniversity.blogspot.com/2015/06/murad-monday-new-anti-aging-acne-line.html

So, those are my top 5 beauty products of 2015. What are yours?

From Makeup University and myself to you, a very Happy New Year!
2016 is going to be the year of restoration and repayment of things lost and forgotten. Believe it!
 

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

Whole Foods and You: NYE adventures await!

Hi ya Gorgeous!

Woo hoo! There are less than 2 days left in 2016...and Whole foods has you covered for going into the new year.

 I've got some fun samples from Whole Foods that are going to be just what you need for your NYE adventures!

How to chalk ombre your hair for NYE parties

Hi ya Gorgeous!
This fun look for New Year's Eve is simple and affordable to acquire and just a few steps to get the look!
 I'm going to show you how to get a chalk ombre look for your 2016 NYE party!
Enjoy this video!


I bought the Splat Mint Candy hair chalk at Target for $5!
What are you doing for NewYear's Eve?
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

NYE 2016 party look with Rimmel London cosmetics

Happy Monday Beautiful!

I have a Rimmel London New Year's Eve party look for you!   I've said it before and I'll say it again, whoa, where did this year go?

Ok, now let's talk Rimmel and a fun, simple to apply New Year's Eve party look.

 Thank you Rimmel London and Tartan+Twine for the beauty samples!

Review: Jeffrey James face wash

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Woop! The last Sunday of 2015...how did you spend it?
 I've been wrapping up blog details and planning for 2016! I'm so excited for the new year!
In my "tbc" mode of blogging I tried this organic face wash from Jeffrey James.

Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Recapture 360 creme review

Hi ya Gorgeous!

There are just days left in 2016. Where did the year go?
 So I got to try a bunch of new products to close out this year and one of them is the Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Recapture 360.

A very Merry Christmas to you! Murad Award Season unboxing edition

 Hi ya Gorgeous!
A very Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones from myself and Makeup University!

I have a wee Christmas video and in my humble opinion, miracle. Enjoy the video!







This unboxing video of Murad and the Awards Season set was such a blessing and miracle to me!

Murad products in Award Season Digest:
Murad Hydro-Dynamic Quenching Essence
Murad Hydro-dynamic Ultimate Moisture
Murad Invisiblur Perfecting Shield
Murad Hydrating Toner
Murad Oil control Mattifier
Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion for Lips

Thank you for watching!
A very merry Christmas to you!




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

1907 Copper Core Brush review

Hi ya Gorgeous,

So I tried these and love these copper core brushes-see the video for the demonstration.

 The final blow out is smooth! If you need a last minute stocking stuffer, get one of these!

AUTHENTIC DESIGN AND MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP

Fromm takes pride in our in-depth knowledge of tools and rigorous standards of service. 1907 products are created with premium craftsmanship, high quality materials and next generation design. After 100 years of tradition, 1907 introduces visionary tools which are engineered to provide a stylist with the tools to create beauty. 1907 tools are beautifully crafted with natural materials and reliable designs.

To get your hands on these Copper Core brushes and more at  Beauty Brands stores.



Learn more at http://www.frommbeauty.com






I love this brush and it's boar bristle strip, get  one for yourself at www.beautybrands.com
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Mally H3 Lip Gloss- the must have for a beauty lover and NYE look

Hi ya Gorgeous!
 It's almost Christmas time! I'm so stinkin' excited! I got my son some really fun toys this year and I can hardly wait to see him open them!

 Lucky me, I got to open these lip gloss samples from Mally a week ago. These accompanied me to Desert Hot Springs, Newport, Scottsdale, Phoenix and Glendale then home!

 It's no secret I am a huge Mally fan. Her talent as an artist is inspiring and her joy and commitment to the beauty community is a much needed light!

(This is Orchid Berry)

All of the colors available are: 
Shimmering Nude, Sweet Peach, Tea Rose, Perfect Nude and Orchid Berry
 

 (This is Shimmering Nude)

 The latest launch from Mally Beauty – the H3 Lip Glosses. Obtain triple the hydration and gorgois, luscious lips with this pout-perfecting gloss.

 

Get enviable, fierce coverage with this ultra-moisturizing high-shine gloss that is formulated with antioxidants and plenty of moisture,  leaving your lips full and sparkling.

Get these for 

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

Veil Cosmetics Sunset Light Primer: pure perfection

Hi ya Gorgeous!
I'm en route to home from the Phoenix area after a blitz of Christmas family memory making at the Phoenix Zoo Lights and Glendale Glitters and rah rah rah!

(This photo is from the Rey "how to video" for Star Wars The Force Awakens..

see it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hb2BqR06MjU )

This lil gem of a product really aided keeping tired skin at bay! I've used the concealer  from Veil and I wasn't wowed. Oh, but this tube o'licious stuff is amazing.

Meet, Veil Cosmetics Sunset Light Primer!

I have used it for a few days and traveled with it and used in some makeup videos. I love the light dewy texture that absorbs quickly and blends easily. My long wearing, mineral powder and airbrush foundations went on beautifully and stayed-no streaking or funkiness whatsoever!

This gem is a keeper!Get your Veil Sunset Light Primer on Amazon or the Veil website.

Primer: Unique water based formula: Use to prime complexion to provide makeup longevity and glow Feather light, no heavy silicone mask texture - ultimate comfort No sparkle, or flash feed back - light reflective optics give the appearance of healthy, glowing skin

Serum: Serum strength actives brighten, defend, plump, soothe and hydrate: Brighten-white water lily extract Defend-anti-aging peptides & ubiquinone Plump & soothe - cinnamon bark extract Hydrate - sodium hyaluronate

Mixing Base: Mix a small amount: Into Veil Complexion Fix to create your customer blend BB Cream Into your favourite concealer/foundation to give perfect guide and pigment spread Into cream/liquid based products to smooth and refine product texture

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

December Ipsy Glam Bag reveal video....wee!

 Hi ya Gorgeous!
Oh these lil' glam bags are so much fun!
 I was a very, slow adopter of the whole beauty subscription thing though now I am so glad I joined in on the Ipsy Glam Bag subscription.

This is my third one and I'm thoroughly thrilled!

Thank you for watching the video. Please comment what you would like in your glam bag?

Or better yet...if you get the Ipsy Glam Bag, what was in yours?

In my December Ipsy Glam Bag, I received:
Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum
http://amzn.to/1Nwh1bd
Tarte Smooth Operator powder http://amzn.to/1Nwh3zO
Pacifica Power of Love Natural Lipstick http://amzn.to/1Nwh6vz
Peter Lamas Spa Sensuals http://amzn.to/1NwhbQ7
Beaugachis concealer brush http://amzn.to/1Qo9YaH

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

Gliteratzi by Hard Candy: how to glitter up for holiday parties

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Who wants to wear some glittery glitter make up for an upcoming holiday party or New Year's Eve celebration?

Check these out from Hard Candy!

Oops! Merry Christmas to you from Makeup University & Pur Minerals

Hi ya Gorgeous,
I am a huge fan of the brand Pur Minerals for their commitment to healthy cosmetics that are effective and beautiful at the same time...while being affordable and honoring efforts to recycle and give back in the beauty community.

So let's do some giving!

How to get Rey's style from Star Wars The Force Awakens

Hi ya Gorgeous!
TGIF and a soon to be Shabbat Shalom!
Yesterday, my family went to see a sneak preview of the new movie, Star Wars The Force Awakens.
It was so epic. So awesome. So everything I had hoped for and more. It feels dream like. The experience was so good, so surreal, that I woke up wondering, "Was that real? Did I really just see that?". Oh yeah. I did.

 And that, is what brings me to today's blog post: "How To Get Rey's Style"!




Thank you for watching!

Products used:
Murad Resurgence moisturizer http://amzn.to/1OxfJwv
Veil Sunset Light primer http://amzn.to/1UC1LhY
Smashbox Cosmetics Studio Skin 15 hour Foundation  http://amzn.to/1OxfMbG
Smashbox Cosmetics Photo Light Primer http://amzn.to/1UC2cbT
Laura Mercier bronzer http://amzn.to/1OxfYb6
Neutrogena eye shadows Cocoa Mauve http://amzn.to/1Oxg0j0
Chop Saver lip balm http://amzn.to/1UC2G1G
Make Up For Ever Smokey Extravagant mascara http://amzn.to/1Oxg8z6
Wella Eimi Dry Shampoo http://amzn.to/1OxggP4
Wella Eimi Sugar Spray http://amzn.to/1Oxgp59
Real Techniques powder brush http://amzn.to/1Oxgt4V
Morphe foundation brush http://amzn.to/1Oxgy8C


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

What Finn needs: A Chella Eyebrow tool kit Star Wars The Force Awakens

Hi ya Gorgeous
So I saw Star Wars The Force Awakens last night. Let's just say it's more awesome than awesome!

The new characters are well developed, and someone you can relate to and want to cheer for. Meet FN 2187, otherwise known as Finn. The brow game is strong with this one!

Chella Beautiful Eyebrow Tools are a perfect gift for the stormtrooper on the lam, traveling scavengers or a modern day man or woman looking to have grooming tools on hand!

Tweezers
To create your ideal brow look, remove any unwanted hairs with this perfect-grip tweezer. To use: grip an individual hair and utilize a quick upward motion to lift and remove hairs as desired.
Razor w/ Brush & Comb
For a quick touch-up or when hairs are too short to tweeze, this unique grooming tool fine tunes your brows. For closest results, stroke razor lightly against the grain of the hair's directional growth.
Scissors
While grooming your new brows, these will be needed to trim hairs that grow too long. You'll love Chella's easy-to-handle styling which will make quick work of this occasional task.

Chella's Beautiful Eyebrow Tools In Case contains all the tools you will need to groom and shape your eyebrows into beautiful frames for your eyes as well as room for the Chella Eyebrow Color Pencils and/or Chella Eyeliner Pens. This tool case contains our Chella scissors, unique eyebrow razor with brush and comb and our specially designed tweezers along with Chella‘s Eyebrow Shaping Guide, all inserted into our beautiful Chella Tool Case.
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Revive hair mask: how I kept my hair sanity during high desert travel

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Oh my goodness, I'm so glad I received this sample a few weeks ago from Hair Le Vie called Revive.

I bet Rey from Jakku in the movie that I am seeing today, Star Wars The Force Awakens needs a hair conditioner like this!

What it does: Strengthen and nourish your hair naturally. Hair La Vie "Revive" Deep Hydration Masque is an all-natural moisturizing and strengthening treatment that is infused with vitamins and essential oils to repair damaged hair while deep conditioning the scalp.

• 11 vitamins & essential oils
• Deep cleans and conditions

• Contains Keratin protein
• NO Parabens, no phthalates, no dyes, no alcohol

So I was in the high desert of Palm Springs, then the Desert Hot Springs and then Newport and home to Arizona. Between the travel, bad eating, lack of sleep, weather and stress, my hair needed an intense mask, twice a week!

I'm loving the results I get from this product and I used it as an intense mask under a cap and let it set for 30 minutes with a hot towel wrapped around it as well as I use a quarter size dollop on my dry ends that I braid before going to bed.

Get some for yourself and the hair care fanatic in your family or friends!
Visit the Hair Le Vie website here!





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

Star Wars: The Force Awakens...How Rey stays in shape

 Hi ya Gorgeous!
As I continue the Makeup University week of Star Wars fandom to celebrate the opening of the movie The Force Awakens on December 18th, here is a guest post on getting in shape either the hard way or the costly way for a fabulous LBD on NYE!

If it were Rey, she would be spending her day scavenging and fighting while helping an uprising along side her trusty droid BB-8.

Now for your plan for NYE:

THE LAZY GIRL’S HIGH TECH TRICK FOR LOSING INCHES BY NEW YEAR’S AND FITNESS HACKS

With just one month left until New Year’s Eve, it’s time to squeeze into a little black dress and stay up ‘til midnight, it’s time to prep. The good news is, if you don’t  want to squeeze into your outfit, there’s still four weeks left to tone up and loose those few pounds or inches that make the difference between, “You look great!” and jaw-dropping silence. Here are some fitness hacks and one high tech “lazy girl’s trick for achieving your ideal NYE look.   

THE HIGH TECH WAY- STRAWBERRY LASER LIPO

www.strawberry-laser.us

First introduced in London, the Strawberry Laser’s cold laser technology is now available in the United States. Already, over 5 million people worldwide have lost instant inches with Strawberry.  There are now Strawberry systems installed in over 30 countries.

The Strawberry Laser is an FDA cleared, painless alternative to liposuction that achieves non-invasive inch-loss and body contouring by shrinking fat cells. With each 10-20 minute treatment, unwanted fat is naturally released from the body via the lymphatic system.  The results are instant. Clients can lose up to 8 inches in 1 treatment and two areas of the body can be treated at once.

So how does it work?

Prior to each treatment, precise measurements are taken at multiple levels around a patient’s specific target area(s). During the treatment, low-level (cold) laser technology is used to painlessly melt fat within the fat cells. The process is similar to exercise. When a person exercises, triglycerides are released from the fat cells. With these being released, the fat cells reduce in size (adipocytes). The Strawberry Laser works in a similar way, pulling the triglycerides from the fat cells. This results in millions of fat cells becoming smaller, so inches are reduced off the waist, hips, thighs, arms, buttocks and male breasts. Exercising in conjunction with Strawberry Laser treatments further stimulates the fat reduction process. Surrounding tissues, such as blood vessels, nerves and skin cells are unaffected by the procedure.

Cost: Between $1,500 and $2,000 for a course of 8, 20 minute treatments.

THE TRADITIONAL WAY – FITNESS HACKS

www.franicohen.com

Franci Cohen is a NYC certified fitness trainer, nutritionist and exercise physiologist. Here she provides tips on how to hack your way to better fitness before New Year’s.

Strength with Cardio

For most, weight-training and cardio exercise are two separate events. However, mixing strength exercises with a cardio interval, like a 30 second sprint, will boost the metabolism and growth hormones.

 Go Compound

Try multi-joint or compound exercises that engage multiple muscle groups at the same time. Replace isolated exercises, which only focus on one muscle group at a time, with movements like the squat or deadlift to burn more calories and increase your metabolic rate.

 Train Like an Athlete

Huge biceps look great, but are unlikely to contribute to overall health. Instead of training like a bodybuilder try exercising like an athlete. Include plyometrics, kettlebell swings and sprints in your training plan to add intensity and variety to workouts while improving overall fitness.

 Go Heavy

Lifting heavier weights for less repetitions helps to build strength and shed fat. Start with a weight that is manageable for 15 reps. Then add weight over time to find a weight that is doable for eight to ten repetitions. Remember, always practice perfect form, and try to work for an extra rep before calling it quits.
 Bring a Friend

Working out with a partner improves results and makes the going-to-the-gym experience a more enjoyable one. Having a partner to provide encouragement during workouts can help you get the most out of a workout. And when you have someone relying on you to do the same, it makes you accountable and more likely to show up for workouts.

 Don't Train, Compete

Turn workouts into a competition with yourself of a workout partner. Join a sports league, play pick-up basketball or sign-up for a 5K. Or create your own challenges in the gym by completing a circuit workout as fast as possible, pushing the pace and intensity.

 Write it Down

Record the exercises, sets and repetitions performed during workouts. Keeping track of goals and progress will reveal what you have accomplished and where you can improve. With that knowledge on hand, it's then possible to structure workouts that play to your strengths and improve weaknesses.

 Hydrate

Be sure to drink plenty of water during workouts and throughout the day. Heading into a workout dehydrated takes its toll on muscles, motivation and energy levels. Drink up and train hard, then don't forget to refuel with food and water after workouts to promote recovery.

 



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

Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Wookie hair with Smooth n Shine Polishing Pomade

Hi ya Gorgeous,
Oh the joy continues with Star Wars: The Force Awakens here on Makeup University.
In the galaxy, hair style and control is a concern just as if it were here in Arizona.

Whether you are a Wookie-

a droid ...

or Han Solo himself!

Healthy looking hair and control is easy with Smooth n Shine Hair Polisher and Edge Smoothing Pomade in any galaxy!

Now you can get these at Walmart, Beauty Brands, drugstores and Ulta or online and no Republic credits are needed!

Smooth'n'Shine Revivoil Edge Smoothing Pomade:

• Controls and keeps fine hairs in place
• For moisture, shine and stimulating feel
• Sleeker, non-waxy feel

Smooth'n'Shine Hair Polisher:

 Advanced polishing formula instantly creates intense shine while it detangles and smoothes frizzies, split ends and fly aways.

 Ok friends, just a few more days til the movie! I'm so excited! How about you? Are you a Star Wars fan? Are you going to show? If yes, when? Preview night or first showing on the 18th?

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

Star Wars: The Force Awakens premiere in Los Angeles today...and Green Goo

Hi ya Gorgeous,
So, today is the premiere in Los Angeles for the Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie. I'm the biggest Star Wars fan ever and this week, shall be Star Wars week on Makeup University!

Now, if I was living somewhere on Tattooine or Jakku, skin would get dirty due to the harsh climate and conditions.

A scavenger or Jedi would need something to clean and protect skin. Something like, Green Goo 100% natural face wash! I've used this a few times and I love the scent and the tingly action, and I'm so surprised that it removes my long wearing makeup.

Awesome'sauce!

 Sierra Sage formulas are created using timeless herbal wisdom with Organic ingredients to produce Food for Your Skin™. Free of petroleum, chemicals and other harmful ingredients. We strive to bring the farm into the pharmacy by carefully selecting only the purest, most sustainable herbs and essential oils to create medicinal everyday products.

Experience the surprising miracle of Calendula infused Olive Oil and Vitamin E. Gently dissolve harmful dirt and makeup without the harsh drying chemicals found in soap. Rich in antioxidants. The unique combination of antioxidant rich oils and healing herbs nurtures the skin leaving it clean and radiant without clogging pores. Replenish essential nutrients your skin will love!
4.5 oz Bottle: $16.95


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

Korean Skincare: Everything you need to know in The Little Book of Skin Care by Charlotte Cho

Hi ya Gorgeous,
I love to read and I am a voracious reader. I received a sample of the book "The Little Book of Skin Care by Charlotte Cho".

Whoa! It's a fun read that is part testimony of her time in Korea as a transplant from southern California to a step by step "how to" routine and what products are best and where to get them.

I must admit, I learned something new from her when it comes to skincare. I love the routine and ritual she speaks of in her book.

Now, I must visit a Korean spa. I have been to the spa in Japan and loved it!

I'll let you know when I visit the Korean spa how deep the exfoliation really is!

Get your copy of this book on Amazon:

Here's a bit more about the book:

The secrets behind the world's most beautiful skin!
In Korea, healthy, glowing skin is the ideal form of beauty. It's considered achievable by all, men and women, young and old—and it begins with adopting a skin-first mentality. Now, this Korean beauty philosophy has taken the world by storm!
As the founder of Soko Glam, a leading Korean beauty and lifestyle website, esthetician and beauty expert Charlotte Cho guides you through the world-renowned Korean ten-step skin-care routine—and far beyond—to help you achieve the clearest and most radiant skin of your life With Charlotte's step-by-step tutorials, skin-care tips, and advice on what to look for in products at all price levels, you'll learn how to pamper and care for your skin at home with Korean-approved techniques and pull off the "no makeup" makeup look we've seen and admired on women in the streets of Seoul. And you'll get access to beauty secrets from Charlotte's favorite beauty gurus from around the world, including supermodels, YouTube sensations, top makeup artists, magazine editors, actresses, and leading Korean skincare researchers.
With the knowledge of an expert and voice of a trusted friend, Charlotte's personal tour through Korean beauty culture will help you find joy in the everyday beauty routines that will transform your skin.

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

Holiday Travel Tips Everyone Should Know

 Hi ya Gorgeous,
I'm in full swing of holiday travel and found this article helpful! Read below if you need some travel tips too!

Holiday Travel Tips Everyone Should Know
 

LOS ANGELES, CA - (December 7, 2015) – According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the holiday season surrounding Christmas and New Year’s Day tends to be one of the busiest times of the year for traveling. In fact, travel during that time of the year increases 23 percent, compared to the rest of the year. As many people take to the highways and skies, there are some tips they should keep in mind in order to help keep them safer and healthier along the way. 

“It’s a big mistake to just pack and go and not put much thought into your travel wellness,” explains Tina Aldatz, chief executive officer of travel wellness company, Savvy Travelers. “You want to make sure that you pack smart, keep toiletries simple, and be safe and healthy and try to avoid getting sick. That’s the best way to get the most out of your traveling and enjoy it more.” 

Your vacation starts when you board the plane, so indulge in a decadent chocolate and a glass of red wine, then relax with a great new album or a inspiring book. Cozy up in a luxurious wrap and noise cancelling headphones, maybe even bring some socks to keep your feet warm. Wipe off your makeup and slather on a rich moisturizer for hands, face, and a good lip balm, so upon touch down you arrive fabulously.

Here are some holiday travel tips that everyone should know:

·       

Stay clean. Germs abound when traveling, especially if you are on an airplane or cruise ship. Consider taking a Savvy Travelers kit (available at Nordstrom.com) along, which will help eliminate the germs and reduce the risks. The kits are lightweight and offer sanitizing luxe sheets for hands, counters, airplane trays and seats, hotel remote controls, and more.

·     

 Leave early. Lots of people will be traveling on the same days and to many of the same places. Leave early so there’s extra time and nobody will feel stressed by being in a time crunch. It’s better to arrive at the airport early, for example, than to be rushing through security and to the gate to make it on time.

·       

Pack lightly. Get past the urge to pack more than what is needed, as extra items will just slow everyone down. Pack just those things that are needed for the trip and can be mixed and matched for multiple uses. Less packing will usually also mean less to stress about. Also, if you do a lot of shopping at your holiday destination (or receive a lot of gifts), consider shipping them home. The small fee will be worth alleviating any stress that trying to lug them back would create.

·     

 Have patience. Holiday travel can test your patience, because you are often dealing with large crowds and weather delays. Find ways to keep occupied if you are stuck in an airport, for example. Take a deck of cards, ear plugs with calming music, and a book to read, such as the new autobiography by Tina Aldatz, “From Stilettos to the Stock Exchange,” a compelling and heartwarming story of success against all odds. Be sure to also pack some snacks in case there’s a delay in reaching the next meal.

·      

Pick your days wisely. If possible, choose to travel on the non-peak days during the holiday season. This will help ensure things are a little less busy, which should make for a more enjoyable travel experience.

·     

 Keep it unwrapped. Those taking presents along with them should avoid wrapping them ahead of time if they are flying. Wrapped gifts may be unwrapped by security. Rather, take flat packed gift bags and tissue and wrap them when you arrive at your destination. 

“Being prepared is half the battle of any travel that you will do this holiday season,” says Margie Floris, co-founder of Savvy Travelers, a marketing expert who also helped Foot Petals to become globally successful. “Also, take a carry-on and you won't suffer when you arrive at your destination and find your luggage lost or delayed. If you are prepared then you are going to find it less stressful and you will end up a savvy traveler!”
Savvy Travelers offers a line of products that help to keep travelers healthy and comfortable. The company offers a line of pre-packaged individual sanitizing personal and surface luxe sheets, antiperspirant deodorant sheets, mouth cleansing sheets, and more. Savvy Travelers travel wellness products are available for only $10 a box, with 6 individually wrapped sheets per box, at all Nordstrom locations around the country. Making a great stocking stuffer, they include the following: “Take Offz” hyper hydrating facial cleanser and moisturizer sheets, “In The Klear” lens & screen cleaner sheets, “No Sweat” deodorant sheets, and “Speak Easy” mouth cleansing sheets.

For more information, visit the site at: www.savvytravelers.com or shop Nordstrom at: http://shop.nordstrom.com/.

About Savvy Travelers (SavvyTravelers.com):  Dedicated to overall travel wellness while offering lifestyle components for both personal and surface use. Savvy Travelers high performance products are individually packed in a disposable sheet form that removes 99 percent of surface contamination. Proudly made in California, Savvy Travelers' line of convenient, single-use, eco-friendly, disposable products help consumers carry all of their must-haves while they travel for a healthy, easy, on-the-go experience. Keeping travelers healthy for all their destinations! Follow @Savvy_Travelers on social media and like us on Facebook.

 

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

How to pack a beauty bag London SOHO style: Cinderella version

Hi ya Gorgeous!

TGIF to you! Whoa-where does the time go? Shocking, but I am surprised at how fast the time goes and I feel like I don't have enough time to accomplish what I need or want to! Ahh!

Ok, enough of that. Onto the new Cinderella makeup bag set from London SOHO New York.

 I'm such a Disney fan and these bags do not dissapoint!

Cookie Monster gets a tat: Toys for Tots toy drive with Urban Art Tattoo (#tbt)

Hi ya Gorgeous!
I have a #throwbackthursday video for you today. It's one of my top 10 favorite videos that I have made.

 For information on the current toy drive with Urban Art Tattoo, please call
480-844-7429 or 480-829-7226



You do not have to get a tattoo to donate, but if you do donate, you get a discount!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Mally Beauty: new lipgloss colors perfect for the Christmas stocking of a beauty enthusiast

Hi ya Gorgeous!
It's no secret. I love lipgloss. Lipstick is nice and has it's place in the world. Though when it comes to my choice of lippie, it's gloss baby.

Mally Beauty has a new set of lip gloss available just in time for the Christmas stocking stuffer a beauty enthusiasts dreams of!

How to revitalize stressed skin with 7th Heaven Manuka Honey Peel Off Mask

 Oh hello Gorgeous,
I love these easy to use and affordable masks from 7th Heaven.

This is the Manuka Honey Peel Off mask and true story, I'm not a big fan of a peel off mask, though this one really did apply easy and pull off completely without any weird bits being stuck or gummy on my face.

I think these masks are a perfect stocking stuffer for  the beaut enthusiast in your life.

As you can see in the photo below, they really do peel off easily!
My skin was soft, refreshed and besides looking better, it felt better.

Get your favorite 7th Heaven masks online here or at your favorite Walmart!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Word of Encouragement for your Monday

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Happy Monday to you!
The week has taken an interesting turn. My family is now en route to Mission Viejo to help another family member during a time of health challenge. So it's time to look again and adapt perspective to what God is doing.

The plan is to get there and assess the situation, and then, make a second plan for how to honor the virtual hot chocolate party and Christmas tree photo contest!

Now, enjoy this short video with a word of encouragement for you!


More from the road and sunny Southern California!

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

How to Stay Warm and Stylish in Cold Weather without Bulk: SLANKY

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Oh this is a must for your snow bound weather gals!
The Slanky is sleek, mild compression, smoothing and comfortable. Most importantly, it's warm!

The video shows you the review and the link for getting one for yourself if below!



http://www.slanky.com Ok- I'm off and running to church, then getting ready to celebrate Hanukkah and then, leaving for a week in Mission Viejo in a last minute trip!

Jesus help me get all of this done, and done well!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!

Infusium 23 Repair+Renew shampoo and conditioner

 Hi ya Gorgeous!
Oh the winter weather is upon us and it's chilly and dry in the desert!

I have dry skin and hair! I've just started using the Infusium 23 Repair+ Renew with argan oil & keratin.

 Repair and strengthen stressed hair with the damage-defying powers of Infusium 23 Repair & Renew with keratin proteins and argan oil. Protein-rich keratin fortifies hair while argan oil prevents future damage. Scientifically formulated to accelerate the renewal process, Repair & Renew delivers brilliantly transformed, healthier hair.

So I've begun using this as part of a regimen to heal my bleached and toned and dry, tired hair! I loved having the light hair but it was very difficult to maintain and hard on my hair.

I am back to my normal dark hair but it's dry!

Stay tuned to the two week report of how the Infusium 23 Repair+Renew is helping my hair!

The collection has 3 parts: shampoo, conditioner, and leave in repair spray.

It's available at mass retailers nationwide and averages under $10 per bottle.
As holiday hairstyles and travel, stress and indulgent eating habits take hold, consider the hair help that Infusium 23 can provide!


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

Fragrancenet and Carmen Electra: the how to video review

Hi ya Gorgeous
Happy Saturday!
It's a busy one here. Mancub and I are getting ready to see the Nutcracker ballet, eat prime rib and enjoy some some Christmas tradition fun!

Today I have a perfume gift idea from Fragrancenet.com! It's the new celebrity scent from Carmen Electra!

 
Now on to the video review!

How to Stuff a Christmas Stocking! Video for your TGiF!

 Oh Beauty,
Today is a sweet juxtaposition of life. On one hand, about to go out for a birthday celebration, on the other, I woke up to see Scott Weiland of the Stone Temple Pilots band has died, and then, it's time for Shabbat, and Hanukkah and for life to be celebrated in so many ways.

In the meantime, here's a Friday #TGiF video for you-it's the ever fun and spunky "How to Stuff a Christmas Stocking: Beauty Edition"

Enjoy.  Let me know what is the one beauty item that I missed in this stocking?




Here are the products in the video:
Cross C3P0 pen http://amzn.to/1TnHxau
Chella Beautiful Eyebrow Tools http://amzn.to/1IGChsH
Burt's Bees Hand Creme http://amzn.to/1TnI7VJ
Burt's Bees squeezable lip balm http://amzn.to/1IGCPip
7th Heaven masks http://amzn.to/1TnImzX
Soap & Paper Factory http://amzn.to/1TnIy2h
Mally Lip Gloss http://amzn.to/1IGDjVH
Shiseido Benefiance Lip Treatment http://amzn.to/1IGDr7z
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel polish http://amzn.to/1IGDyQs


So, God speed healing to the Weiland family. Life goes on.



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

Savannah Bee Royal Jelly Body Butter: gift giving ready

Hi ya Gorgeous!
Tgif!
Oh the holiday season has my family busy and buzzing about like honey bees! We did a Christmas light walk last night and now we have a cookie bake off for a cookie trade with friends.

Stay tuned for the upcoming Christmas stocking stuffer video, and for now, take a closer look at the Savannah Bee Royal Jelly Body Butter made with tupelo honey.

This creme smells amazing and is super rich, luxurious and perfect for winter skin needs and holiday gift giving!

L.A. Color Eyeshadow Sticks: Christmas Stocking Perfect!

Hi ya Gorgeous! Wee! There is something fun and magical about the holiday season!

Today I have a review of the L.A. Color Eyeshadow Sticks, which, in my humble opinion are Christmas Stocking and Hanukkah perfect!

Here's a video of the "how I came by these" story...



Now for the individual color swatches:

and last but not least, the royal blue color...

These are super affordable, easy to use and fun. For $5 it's a win win!
Join me on Bloglovin here:
https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/makeup-university-2500023
Thanks for watching the video!
Tomorrow, stay tuned for the stocking stuffer video!
Remember: you are beautiful! Thank you for visiting the blog and check back for promotions and beauty giveaways!