Vix Fix: How to Get Your Pout and Smile 3D Ready

Have you had a chance to try the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal ($45)? If not, you should if you want to be smooched this Valentine’s Day! Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal have raised the bar for teeth whitening!

I know in the past, whenever you wanted to whiten your teeth, the task demanded that you didn’t eat, drink, talk and definitely not kiss if you wanted a pearly white smile, right? Don’t even get me started on how messy and gooey it can get! Not cool at all!

Luckily for us, there’s Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. These perfectly designed strips fit neatly around your teeth and no one will ever know you’re wearing them. Not even your fling! They allow you to do everything you normally would without interfering with your daily routine. Removing these strips are a breeze as well; not only do they mold and adhere to your teeth but peeling off the strip is clean and painless. Imagine how surprise your lover will be that you’ve been whitening your teeth while giving him some hands-on appreciation! He’ll be so in to you!

Even if you’re single this time of year, don’t fret because if you visit KissMein3D, you can experience a trio of 3D smooches from suave Fernando or sassy Olivia. However, you won’t experience just any kind of kiss – you can choose three types of kisses. I picked Fernando and he planted three lavish kisses on me: a steamy one, one that took me around the world, and a heart-to-heart smooch. But seriously, it would have been better if I had a pair of blue and amber 3D glasses and if I could cop a feel. I have needs!

You can get your own 3D glasses at 28,000 nationwide retailers, including A&P, Coburns, CVS (select stores only), Dollar General, Fairway, Food Lion, Fresh Brands, Frys, Hess (select stores only), Hy Vee, K-Mart, Kroger, Meijer, Nash Finch, Patchmark, Ralphs, Roundy’s, Safeway/Vons, Supervalu, Target and Winn Dixie. Maybe your experience will be a little more interactive, eh?

The best part is still yet to come because Blaq Vixen Beauty is teaming up with Crest to host a Crest Whitestrips giveaway! Isn’t that pretty?

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

FOTD: Illusions Cosmetics Foundation Stix in IC10

So here is my first FOTD for the year, in honor of Valentine’s Day. How I achieved this look:

I recently watched a video of Collier Strong apply L’Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup with a sponge. Since I haven’t bought the True Match foundation in a while (not sure if I’m still C7 or not), I did have a sample of Illusions Cosmetics Foundation Stix in IC10, courtesy of the Tunnell sisters. I primed my face with Motives Foundation Primer and I used sponges that I bought from the Lackland AFB BX to apply the foundation. I needed more coverage on my forehead, sides of my face and chin area. With cream foundations, it’s so easy to apply too much product in one area so you have to work fast. Also, I’ve read that you should pat on the foundation instead of rubbing it on. Well, I did some patting and rubbing but I think it came out all right. Don’t you agree?

I had already shaped my brows with my fabulous pair of  LaVaque Tweezers and then I filled them in (slightly) with Elke Day Brow Shadow in Dark Brunette. I decided to try my newest mascara, CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe in Black Platinum. I applied Black Radiance Sheer Blush in Spiced Ginger on my lids and cheeks. Then I set everything with Black Opal Invisible Oil Blocking Powder in Invisible. I used a powder puff. I’m wearing a combo of Maybelline Shiny-Licious Gloss in Sugar Plum and CoverGirl WetSlicks AmazeMint in Everything’s Rosy on my lips. Tell me what you think!

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

BVB Wants to Try: Prescriptives All Skins

I’ve been curious about Prescriptives for a while now. As you all know, one of New Year’s resolutions is to find my perfect match at the drugstore and department store. Prescriptives has a new campaign by the name of All Skins.

Boasting a range of over 170 shades and nine formulas for you to choose from, your search for the perfect shade and formula stops here. To my knowledge, Prescriptives is the only cosmetic brand that has an unique and complementary technology that helps determine your skin undertones. This special service is called Colorprint SM. From there, your perfect match is either already available or waiting to be custom blended right before your eyes!

With Custom Blend Makeup, a blender identifies your skin’s undertone and creates shades and formulas that are perfect for you by allowing you to personalize everything from the shade to the amount of coverage. I’d aim for full coverage. As for undertones, I still can’t identify if mine are green, blue or yellow. I might not even be cool-toned as I originally thought! You can even add anti-aging or brightening ingredients! Since anti-aging products are huge this year, I’d definitely ask for ingredients that’ll keep me looking young. And a little brightening is all I need to combat my dark under eye circles and hyperpigmentation. Many women struggle with finding their perfect foundation, but at Prescriptives 100% of women leave the counter with the perfect foundation in hand. Usually when things sound too good to be true, they usually are. However, I have a feeling that Prescriptives delivers on their claims.

Prescriptives Director of Artistry, Jillian Veran, was kind enough to answer some questions about foundation, as I’m still a makeup newbie and have yet to master “beating” my face to perfection:

Blaq Vixen Beauty: Do different skin types need different foundation formulas?
Jillian Veran: Absolutely – the environment can affect how our skin behaves so the same skin can even need different types of foundation during the year. In today’s beauty world there are so many options, the best thing to do is to address what you want and need from your foundation. Do you like a sheer, luminous, satin or matte finish? Do you like liquid, cream or powder formulas? And of course what is your skin type – normal, dry, oily, combination?

Blaq Vixen Beauty: What is the best way to apply foundation? Should I use a sponge, a brush or my fingertips?
Jillian Veran: Applying foundation is a personal preference and each method creates a different finish. Using your fingers will allow for a sheerer finish; a sponge is a little tricky for a non-makeup artist as it can place a lot of foundation in one spot so be sure to move quickly across the areas you are applying to; a brush is always great as it helps you create a very smooth even finish. Also, I always recommend using the Px Buff Brush after your foundation is dry to soften the look of the makeup and create a sheer air brushed effect.

Blaq Vixen Beauty: If I’m testing foundation in a department store, is it okay to do a swatch on my hand? Or should I always test the foundation on my face?
Jillian Veran: The best and most accurate way to test foundation is on the side of the face along the jaw line. Stick to this method for fool proof matching.

Blaq Vixen Beauty: If my skin tone is between foundation shades, what’s the best solution?
Jillian Veran: Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation is ideal for this. Your foundation can be blended not only to exactly match your skin’s own unique undertones, but also to create whatever finish and skin care needs you desire.

Blaq Vixen Beauty: What foundations are best for acne prone skin? For dry skin? For mature skin?
Jillian Veran: All skin types should start with a foundation primer like Px Flawless Face Primer. This will allow the makeup to wear longer and for a seamless finish. Dry skin should wear a moisture based formula and should steer away from powder formulas. But if you prefer powder, use a soft cream-to-powder formula like Px Photochrome Light-Adjusting Compact Makeup SPF 15. Normal skin can wear whatever they like, it’s all about preference. Oily or acne prone skin should wear an oil-free formula. Powder foundation is great for this type of skin. Mature skin must be hydrated before applying any foundation. The foundation shouldn’t be too matte or heavy as this can accentuate the age of the skin.

Blaq Vixen Beauty: Do foundations with sunscreen provide enough protection? Should I wear extra sunscreen?
Jillian Veran: Sun damage is the leading cause of aging. So no, using foundation as sunscreen isn’t the best idea. Foundation doesn’t provide a full mask on the skin so the sun will get through. Always use an SPF under your foundation for that extra layer of protection. I highly recommend Prescriptives All Weather Friend SPF 40 as it’s incredibly lightweight and feels great under foundation.

Here is a short video featuring all of the models in the above image:

What would your perfect foundation contain?

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

Vix Fix: Jennifer Hudson at the 2009 NFL Superbowl

Jennifer Hudson was a glowing, graceful goddess at the 2009 NFL Superbowl on Sunday, February 1st. After a string of tragic events, Hudson’s stirring rendition of the Star Spangled Banner was off-the-chain!! Guess who did her makeup? The magnificent Sam Fine! Here how Fine created Hudson’s ethereal glow:

Get that Confident Glow, Girl!

“On a field seen by millions of people, it’s important to have beautiful skin,” advises Sam. “I like to start with a perfect canvas – that is a priority.” To fake glowing, perfect skin, start by layering a bronzer like MAC Mineralized Skinfinish Degrade in Brunette. Next, apply a vibrant blush such as Thevi Cosmetics Sheer Matte Blush in Whisper Apricot on top to add a pop of color.

Neutral is the New Classic
“I wanted to play up the gold buttons on her jacket,” says Sam. “So I used a golden brown eye shadow on the eyelid.” Apply a light brown eye shadow like L’Oreal HiP High Intensity Pigments Bright Shadow Duo in Bustling across the lid. Then use Avon’s Ultra Luxury Eye Liner in Black on the inside rim of the eye to add depth and definition. Or if you’re not too crazy about liquid eyeliner, there’s always Urban Decay 24/7 Eye Pencil in Zero or Jane Be Pure Mineral Gel Eyeliner in Black.

Dashing Lashes

“You can’t do a performance without false lashes,” states Sam. “They give the eyes sparkle in a naturally glamorous way.” If you recall Sam used lashes from Ricky’s for Queen Latifah. For this look, you can just hit the drugstore and pick up a pair of Ardell lashes. Apply the false lashes and then fuse them with your own lashes using a great mascara like Avon’s SuperSHOCK Mascara.

Bare Obsession

“I created a nude lip for Jennifer because I knew that a microphone would be in its way for the performance,” says Sam. “I didn’t want to call too much attention to the mouth.” To get your own perfect nude pout, use a dark brown liner that is two shades darker than your lip color. L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner is a prime pick for the task! Then add a nude color to the middle of the lip – try Avon’s Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Rose Mauve. Dab on a bit of gloss like Milani Minerals Glitzy Gloss in the center to finish.

The overall look was natural, beautiful and confident. “Jennifer was so excited – I think her team was more nervous than she was,” admits Sam. “We knew how important this was to her. But she was so clam and focused, listening to the song throughout the session to perfect the timing.”

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

Vix Fix: Ambi Love Times Three

The Ambi namesake is one of those brands that I’ve managed to “inherit” if that makes any sense. To help my combat my acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, my mom, (also a devout Ambi user) recommended that I try the Ambi Fade Cream, which boasts Vitamin E, Alpha Hydroxy Acid and sunscreen among its ingredients. I bet you any kind of money that if I were as consistent with my skincare as I am with writing and editing this blog, all of my dark spots would be faded nearly to nothing. The Ambi Fade Cream actually works; several small and medium spots have vanished right before my eyes. I am grateful that the Powers-That-Be formulated it with sunscreen. I don’t always remember to apply sunscreen so this makes my skincare regimen more streamlined. Thank God!

I know I put Ambi’s Even and Clear Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 on blast last year in this post, but I have reconsidered this product, thanks to Robyn of Purely Cosmetics. I mean, my mama didn’t raise no fool! We chatted a bit on Twitter and by email. She told me that the chemicals that are present in this moisturizer (and other products deemed hazardous by the Cosmetic Database) would actually be more harmful to the workers exposed to it on a regular basis then consumers like you and me. However, the workers are usually properly attired so they are protected against coming in contact with large amounts of the ingredients. After pondering this exchange for half a minute, I felt a little guilty, as if I had turned my back on an old friend. Don’t worry Ambi Even and Clear, I heart you more than ever. Furthermore, just the fact that you have soy extract, vitamin C, vitamin E and a SPF of 30 makes my tummy go warm!

If I’m not mistaken, Ambi released its Soft and Even Skin Enhancing Moisture Cream last year. I have been using this off and on for the past few months and my knees have actually lightened considerably. I wish I had taken before and after pictures but I’m sure you already know how effective Ambi’s products are, right? This cream smooths wrinkled, dehydrated skin with the moisture-rich duo of shea butter and natural soy. I rarely wear shorts or skirts so I’ve been able to shield my knees from the unforgiving San Antonio sun. Now the only task left to do is to try making my knees look smoother. When I start buying stilettos again, I want to be able to strut with smooth, sexy knees. You feel me?

Which Ambi products are your favorites?

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

Vix Fix: Be a Lady in Red for National Wear Red Day

Thanks to Pretty City, not only did I learn that February is National Heart Month, but tomorrow is National Wear Red Day. Please wear red to show your support for women’s heart disease awareness! I know you have sparkly little number hanging in your closet somewhere! Break out the red stilettos as well!

It doesn’t matter what ethnicity or race you are – it doesn’t discriminate. Remember, “Heart Disease Doesn’t Care What You Wear – It’s the #1 Killer of Women. One in four women dies from heart disease.

Furthermore, Pretty City has teamed up with The Heart Truth, which is a national awareness campaign campaign for women about heart disease, top spas, salons, medspas, and wellness destinations across the US to present their 4th annual “Love You♥” campaign.

Wait, it gets yummier. I promise! The “Love You♥” campaign allows beauty-conscious consumers like you to take advantage of various beauty treatments for the discounted price of $59!  This is for the entire month of February! You can click here to print your Love You♥ Booking Invitation. But before you do, make sure that the facilites in your area are participating.

For more information, visit The Heart Truth and Pretty City.

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

Vixen Volumes: Confessions of a Beauty Addict

As a new, independent beauty editor of six blogs, I found Confessions of a Beauty Addict to be an addictive, entertaining read. Soon after I received it in the mail, I had finished it in one sitting and was a little sad that there was no part two to look forward to. (Hint, hint!) Penned by Nadine Haobsh, the “Jolie in NYC” as well as the refreshingly honest “Beauty Confidential,” I realized after reading and re-reading certain parts that Confessions of a Beauty Addict is actually one huge love story. I don’t know about you but I heart romance novels. My mom had a small collection of Silhouette romance novels that I used to sneak out of the basement. From there, I ventured out towards Harlequin and Kimani Press Arabesque. Just the fact that beauty is woven throughout the novel is an added bonus.

“When Bella Hunter, beauty expert and magazine editor wunderkind, loses her job at chic style-bible Enchante for spilling top industry secrets to The Post she thinks her life is over. And, to top it all off, she’s managed to dye her hair bright orange. At her wits’ end and desperate not to return home with her tail between her legs, Bella accepts a job at Womanly World, a magazine her mom reads. (The shame!) But how can she face her glamorous ex-coworkers now that she works in an office where khaki (not Cavalli) is the way of life? Armed with her Marc Jacobs, three meddling best friends, and her flighty supermodel boyfriend, Bella is out to wage war on the beauty world one bad makeover at a time. At odds with her stuffy (and undeniably gorgeous) publisher, Bella begins to realize that she may be fighting the wrong battle.”

Bella Hunter is one interesting character. Like her, I went through my own phase of being a tomboy. Beauty was not a priority for me for years…until now. Hello Blaq Vixen Beauty! And I wouldn’t dare dye my own hair before an interview! I’ve sworn off of hair color until I nurse my damaged strands back to health. However, reading about Bella adventures from Enchante to Womanly World had me fantasizing about working at a ultra-chic woman’s magazine and falling in love with the publisher. Then of course, there was the beauty closet. If I had access to a fabulous beauty closet like the one at Enchante, I’d live in there. Seriously! 

But real talk: Bella is the aspiring beauty editor’s champ. From being the It-girl in the beauty industry, to sordid outcast, to a sort of prodigal daughter, she proves that you can survive career suicide and come out on top!

Besides being based loosely on Nadine’s own beauty-obsessed life, she offers some enlightening bits of education. For example, the only position I was familiar with was beauty editor. Thanks to Nadine’s “Beauty Hierarchy,” there are four positions: beauty assistant, beauty associate, beauty editor and then beauty director. Learning about what the beauty director at Condé Nast and Vogue actually does was a little mind-blowing. Actually, I was wondering what the job description entailed for the beauty director at Vogue but alas, Nadine omitted the juicy details. Still, it was a small source of inspiration to set goals for myself as an independent beauty editor. For further reading, check out the posts “Yes, I Actually Get Paid for This,” “Pink is the New Black,” “Rules for PR People to Live By,” “Bare Obsession” and “The Beauty Editor Conundrum” on Jolie in NYC. If you want to read the first chapter, click here!

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

VIXENista: PZI Jeans

Shortly after my PZI Jeans giveaway, I received my own pair of PZI Jeans. I wear a size 4 with a 31″ inseam. They fit really well and I don’t even have to pull out my isABelt because they fit in the waist and help to accentuate the small curves that I have. They are the Classic Jean Dark Wash. Now the pair that really caught my eye were the dark wash skinny jeans. Those are so sexy. I swear!! Of course, my own pair of sexy as well.

If you are not familiar with this brand of jeans, allow me to introduce you! Based in Atlanta, Perazzi Apparel Company was born in 2002. The mission of PZI Jeans is to provide vixens (like you and me) quality trend conscious apparel to fit our streamlined waists, our full hips and curvy bottoms. Don’t worry; PZI Jeans are stylish, comfortable, and trendy. They also reflect the maturity that a PZI woman is known for. A firm believer in modesty, I think PZI Jeans allow you to be confident and sexy without baring your assets. Nowadays I live in jeans and some of the brands that I have are ill-fitting, due to the fact that I have lost some weight. I’m sure you can relate as well. PZI Jeans almost remind me of Nelly’s Applebottoms jeans but I think PZI Jeans offer a greater appeal to women. There’s no Tip Drilling here!

Based on press releases that I have read, PZI Jeans is fast becoming a company dedicated to providing “Jeans that Fit!” If you won my PZI Jeans giveaway, how did you like your pair? And if you didn’t win, would you consider buying these jeans? Should Blaq Vixen Beauty team up with PZI Jeans again? Let me know in the comments!

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

The Heart Truth: Bobbi Brown Heart Truth Lip Gloss Trio

Did you know that February is National Heart Month? To commemorate The Heart Truth campaign and their Red Dress Fashion Show, Bobbi Brown have created an exclusive Lip Gloss Trio in a specifically designed package to raise awareness about women and heart disease!

Only 500 of these limited-edition sets will be available until Friday, February 6, 2009 at midnight ET or until supplied last. From left: Pink Sugar Shimmer Lip Gloss, Slopes Shimmer Lip Gloss and Buff Lip Gloss. The Slopes Shimmer Lip Gloss is new and is only available in this set. Each sheer, high-shine shade offers a different effect for a variety of looks.

For supporting The Heart Truth Campaign by including the Heart Truth Lip Gloss Trio, you will receive free standard shipping. Enter HEART9 at checkout! This set is available for $40.

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!

Sampling Girly: My Pretty Pink Box

If your beauty closet is looking a little bare, there’s hope for you yet! In addition to Beautyfix, there’s also My Pretty Pink Box! My Pretty Pink Box was started by Linda Granillo, a Meet Mark Beauty representative. This sampling program is perfect for those of you on a budget, are looking to try inexpensive or niche beauty products or just love being a product junkie!

Just so you are aware, starting today, February’s Pretty Pink Box is available. The participating retailers are as follows: La Belle Femme Cosmetics, Adorned with Grace Minerals, Freeze 24-7, Terra Firma Cosmetics, Spa Girls Parties, Caboodles, mark, Wild Natural Beauty, Baudelaire, Plum Hill, Votre Vu, Mary Kay, DianJane, Spa Girl Emily, Katie B, Hayah Cosmetics, Likisma, Zalan and Billy Jealousy. This month’s box will contain samples and products from seven (7) of the above retailers. The only companies that I have heard of from this list are Freeze 24-7, Caboodles, mark, and Mary Kay! Still, I am curious about the other companies and the products that they have to offer. Aren’t you? February’s box is $11.99 plus shipping. You can expect to receive 1-3 full size products in your box this month.

If you’re not ready to try a full box, Linda has put together mini samples bags. These bags contain samples from two or three participants. They cost $3.50 plus shipping.

Have you ordered from My Pretty Pink Box? If so, how did you like your goodies? Which products did you like the most?

Stay True to the Vixen in You! ♥

See recommendations and more @ http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com!