Moving This Blog

I'm moving this blog to a new location. I keep several blogs and want to incorporate them all into one site. Check it out at http://livewithbeauty.info

Get A FREE Manicure OR Pedicure!!

With the purchase of any TWO specially marked Herbal Essences Shampoos and/or Conditioners, or ONE Herbal Essences Hair Color, receive a voucher good for a FREE manicure OR pedicure (at a participating location).

Note: They do not tell you where the participating locations are prior to you submitting your UPC codes for a voucher. If your nearest location is more than 30 miles from your home, you can call them and make arrangements. See their FAQ for more info.

Hottest New Nail Colour For Spring

This spring, the hottest colour for nails is a deep shade of midnight blue. Several companies have put out their own versions, and here are a few I really like:



OPI nail colours last a long time, don't contain harmful chemicals like dibutyl phthalate or toluene, and come with a wide salon-quality brush for ease of application.



Although much more expensive, Chanel does make a great nail polish formula that lasts a long time. This colour is particularly hard to find and is a limited edition.

Dior Vernis Long-Wearing Nail Lacquer in Poison Blue
A fantastic shade of blue at a reasonable price from one of my favourite fashion houses!

Treating Keratosis Pilaris

I have a moderate to severe case of Keratosis Pilaris. If you have dry, red "chicken skin" bumps on the backs of your arms or legs, that's what it is. It is the most prevalent on my arms, and has been something I've been struggling to fix for years. I've tried many different products on it, and although a lot of them didn't do much good, there are a few that I would highly recommend.

1. DERMAdoctor KP Duty Dermatologist Moisturizing Therapy For Dry Skin
This super-emollient cream contains both Glycolic Acid for exfoliation and Urea, a dermatologist recommended moisturizer. I loved how easy it went on, and while I could feel it super-hydrating my skin, it didn't feel overly heavy or greasy. A little expensive at $36, but if you can spend it, it's definitely worth it.

2. DERMAdoctor KP Duty Dermatologist Body Scrub with Chemical + Physical Medi-Exfoliation
This scrub is a MUST if you are going to treat your KP properly. It acts as both a chemical peel and a microdermabrasion treatment. Use this before the cream above for unbelievable results! It can also be used on in-grown hairs and prior to using sunless tanning cream.

3. AmLactin Moisturizing Cream
This is a more budget-friendly option for treating KP. It is 12% lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, neutralized with ammonium hydroxide to make it a more skin-friendly pH. Applied to the skin twice a day, this is a very effective moisturizer.

The exfoliation process is critical to treating KP, but you do not want to over-exfoliate, or you may end up making it worse. Gently scrub the areas with a body brush or a loofa, but do not use pumice or any other sloughing tools, usually meant for pedicures. I have even had success with using an alpha hydroxy facial cleanser on my arms prior to applying a treatment cream.

Have any other questions about KP? Leave them for me!

More Beauty Samples!

Here are more samples I've found - enjoy!

Aveeno Firming Face Cream - call 1-866 2 AVEENO (228 3366)

Redken for Curly Hair

One Month Supply of Rogaine for Men

Maybelline New York Mineral Power Natural Perfecting Liquid Foundation

FREE Two Week Supply of Clinique Lash Power Mascara

Free Beauty Samples Available NOW!

Here is what I have found today. Get them while they are still available! If you have any samples you don't see here that you'd like me to try, feel free to add them to the comments!

Jergens Natural Glow Express Moisturizers

Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra Lift Deep Wrinkle Treatment

Dove Hair Care

Curel Life's Stages Moisturizers

Gilden Tree Nourishing Foot Cream

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub
(this is the cleanser I use every day - I love it!)

L'Oreal Skin Genesis

Laderma Samples
(click the free samples button on the left)

NV Perricone Ceramic Eye Smoother
(You get to choose two more samples with your order as well!)

Splurge or Save? The Smartest Beauty Buys

I just found this fantastic article from Real Simple that covers which beauty products you should spend lavishly on, and which ones you can save your dollars with. Enjoy!