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Must Haves In May

5 Jun

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I hate May.

How is that for an opening remark? I really don’t think any month tears me up more than May. I have lost several close relatives in the month of May, the weather is so unpredictable, allergies are brutal and… oh, let’s not forget the best of the best… my birthday is in May. Getting another year older always puts a smile on my face….NOT! I hate getting old and will fight ANY signs of it as much as possible–mind, body & soul. Which is probably why most of my fab finds this month will help me stay 29…again!

So what are my new favorite makeup and skin care items I found this month? Read on and find out:

image1. Lancôme Visionnaire – A few of the tell-tale signs of your real age is what begins happening to the skin on your face and neck. Fine lines appear, pores look larger, face takes on an uneven skin tone. Everything that screams old. Since cosmetic procedures are not an option to me (don’t know if I would even if I could), I always read about the latest products to fight the signs of aging. My friend Lisa who is a manager at the local Macy’s said I HAD to try this product for a couple of weeks and gave me a few samples of the Visionnaire serum. My current night cream was getting low so I thought it would be a good time to try it out. I had been using a night gel so this Lancôme Serum felt really nice to put on. It absorbed quickly with no tight or sticky feeling. I already notice my skin tone is evening out, and my pores and fine lines seem less noticeable. Boo-Yah! Just what I am looking for. The only down side it’s pretty expensive, but a little goes a long way and I believe the bottle I got will last at least six months to a year. That’s a good investment in younger looking skin. I top it with my favorite moisturizing night cream and let nature do the rest! ($89 [1oz], Macy’s stores & online)

image2. L’Oreal RevitaLift® Miracle Blur – Okay, true story: I was asked to be a product tester for this product early in the month. I read all the info, used it as directed, but I personally didn’t think I saw the results I was supposed to get, so I tossed it aside after a week. Blur is not a moisturizer, Blur is not a foundation, and it is supposed to do more than just a primer does. But it just didn’t seem to give me what i wanted. Then, like only NY can do, the weather did a complete 180, turning not just warmer but flat out HOT! I realized I needed something to keep away the makeup melt-aways and nasty shine. A product that did that PLUS help me with a broad spectrum SPF would be really great. Hmmmm. Funny–those are things that the new product Blur promised. Okay, lets try this again. Now, the directions say you should apply Blur after your moisturizer and before your foundation. When I did that, I didn’t really get the look I wanted. But when I used a little less and applied it OVER my foundation, I got the look I loved with lasting results I wanted. Sometimes I even blend a bit of my mineral foundation into it in the palm of my hand with the Blur which gives me a nice, all-day matte look. Sometimes things just need another chance and a little adjusting. We hope our serums will work fast, but if they don’t do the job 100%, this will hide that little percentage it missed! ($24.99, most drug stores)

image3. Yes to Grapefruit Brightening Facial Towelettes – Obviously I have an OCD issue with the evenness and tone of my skin. I don’t want blotchy-ness and I don’t want scars from my teen years. If I could get my skin to brighten and even-out where I would need minimal to no foundation, I’d be thrilled. These towelettes take off all my makeup with a gentle textured no-rinse wipe. I was worried my sensitive skin might find it contained a bit too much acid from the grapefruit, but my skin tolerated the wipes just fine. I do feel some tingling after using them, but nothing that irritates or breaks out my face, more like a clean feeling. Oh and I love the scent! These are awesome for those “I’m too tired to take my face off” nights. Just leave a pack in the bed stand for just that! Congrats to Yes To for another fabulous line of products!!($5.99, most retail stores)

image4. Jimmy Choo’s “Flash” Parfum – Okay, so a new scent may not make you look younger, but it can definitely make you feel younger. And isn’t that what counts? This second fragrance from shoe expert, Jimmy Choo, has a pop to it that just takes the wearer’s charisma to a whole new level. The perfume caught my attention on a scratch & sniff page in one of my favorite magazines. (“Samples sell!!”) I INSTANTLY fell in love with it and the search was on. I was able to snag a mini bottle on EBay till I could get a regular sized bottle. This is truly one of those WOW! scents. Notes of pink pepper, strawberry and tangerine open you senses to a rush of power, allure and sexiness that you can even see within the person wearing it. It is very new, so watch for it. I think you hear more about it in the months to follow. ($55.00 [1.3 oz], Nordstrom’s and Nordstrom’s online)

image5. benefit’s They’re Real! Mascara – I am embarrassed to say how many mascaras I have featured on my blog as the greatest, best, advanced, favorite new product I’ve ever tried. Especially since I’m going to do it again. Ok, Sassinistas…. what do I always say about samples? (Look above, silly!). The sample of this mascara was actually the birthday gift to Sephora Insiders, so I picked mine up when I stopped in the store a few weeks ago. Okay, nice, a cute mascara, I’ll try it someday. Well, that day came while my husband was out of town recently and I had nothing to do with my free time except try makeup looks out of my glam mags. I grabbed a few of my fave products from the bathroom including “little” items that were easy to carry. I grabbed this mascara since the mini tube was easy to handle. I knew as soon as I put the mascara on a few of my lashes that is was really different. The “brush” coated each lash more like a comb, separating and plumping each lash. Seriously, they chose a great name for the product because it makes your lashes so lush, they almost look fake. As full as they were, removal wasn’t that difficult at bedtime either. I cringe to think about adding another mascara to my beauty drawer, but dang! I have GOT to get this one!! ($23.00, Sephora stores and online)

And there we have it! It may not be my favorite month of the year but trying new products kept my mind and writing hand busy. Phew, no doubt…. May was BUSY!! Soon, I’ll be talking about hot summer items that you’ll want to have on hand (and feet), so keep reading to learn about “summer must have’s” in your closet, beach bag, makeup drawer and on your bathroom counter. Is there anything YOU want to know about: Hot nail colors? Must-have hair products? Stylish shorts? Summer accessories? Skin tamers? Ask me! I’d love to do a blog post where I can help my readers with their fashion & glamour questions. Don’t wait… send them in!!!!

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Drug Store Items Tattoo Owners Must Have

25 May

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Ok, you’ve heard it all about tattoos this month. The who’s, the what’s, the where’s and the why’s. So now it’s the time where I do a little product recommendation. Usually, after you get your ink, your artist will give you enough ointment (A&D usually) to get you through its healing time. Always remember, a packet of ointment goes a long way–“you don’t have to save the world with the stuff.” But soon after, you will need some basic drugstore necessities to keep your ink at its best. Here are the top items you should get even before you get the art:

image1. Antibacterial Soap. Sounds like a given but you need to put a little thought into this. Bath and Body Works lovers, you’re going to need to slow it down for a while. When it comes to a good antibacterial soap, less is best. In fact, less is NECESSARY. No dyes, no perfumes, no foo foo flowers. Soap, people. Just. Plain. Soap. Save the grapefruit and sweet peas for after you’re healed. Now? Just the basics. Sassy suggests:
Dial Original Antibacterial Foaming Hand Wash or Colgate-Palmolive Antibacterial Soap

image2. A Good Lotion. Once you’ve healed, it’s imperative you keep the skin soft. The softer it is, the truer the color and design will stay. Again, perfumes and dyes are drying and you want to avoid anything that’s going to tighten up the skin. Sure, there is nothing wrong with wearing your favorite lotion, fragrance or glitter where it makes you feel sexy. But if where you feel sexy is now covered with a big, plasma-draining rose (sorry so graphic), you are going to want to avoid to avoid putting it there for at least a few months. Definitely put the moisturizer on before bed too. That’s when skin cell turnover is usually at its fastest. Sassy suggests: Eucerin Original Moisturizing Creme and Curel Fragrance Free – Original Lotion for Dry & Sensitive Skin

image3. A damn good sunscreen. This is where things get a little tricky. Because your skin is essentially burned when it is tattooed, it can easily burn more when it is exposed to direct sunlight. Wearing a good sunscreen over your ink is essential, especially if you cant cover it with clothes. Again, you really want to avoid dyes, fragrances and any alcohol-containing product. You want to get at least an SPF50 for the best coverage nowadays. Remember when you thought a 15 was high? Yeah… ummm… like SO yesterday. Between the protection of your tattoo and the prevention of skin cancer, most people will tell you to get an SPF of 50 or higher in a broad-spectrum sunscreen. You need to reapply it frequently especially when in water or are sweating (read here http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/beauty/sun-care/how-often-apply-sunscreen.htm for great sun care info). Don’t cheap out on your sunscreen–and use it like you ARE trying to save the world with it. You should apply a shotglass worth all over, whether it be oil or cream! Sassy suggests: Neutrogena® Pure & Free® Baby Sunscreeen Lotion SPF 60+ and Coppertone® Tattoo GUARD™ Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen

See? There is no need to worry that you wont be able to find the items you will need to keep your new art looking fresh and new for a long time. Your neighborhood drugstore should have all of these things you will need. Make sure of one thing: when you open your products, write the date on them. All skin care products–especially sunscreens–begin losing their main properties and begin breaking down from bacteria in about a year. Instead of using more and hoping for the best just go out and restock! Your skin and your tattoo will thank you.
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Inking Up May!…

10 May

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For the month of May, I am going to be doing most of my writing about tattoos. I was invited to the Saratoa Tattoo Expo, Friday through Sunday as a VIP. Jeff at Spaulding & Rogers Mfg. and Spaulding’s Tattoo World (the sponsors) hooked me up great to allow me to see what “this side” of the color and design phenom was all about. Plus I thought this would be an odd but necessary connection between the skin care, fashion and art lines. So why did I decide to do this? Many reasons. For one, I love getting new ink! A lot of people who have tats say the pain is almost addicting. Since the weather is getting warmer, tats come out in full force too. More skin is exposed, so people are happy and proud to show off their works of art. As a child, I thought tattoos were these things that guys got when they had a girlfriend, loved their mom, or joined the service. But now tattoos are a pure, raw, unique expression of a person’s interest, desire, accomplishment, or the love of someone here or gone. Everyone has different reasons. Every tat has a different story. Each tattoo I have (and I have a few!) represents a different milestone in my life. Women are now showing off their colors, in both a statement sense as well as a fashion sense. Women’s tats are almost always beautiful. And I think this month, I will show how the world of tattooing has gone beyond just the needle & black ink.

As I talk to women of all ages who have or are getting a tattoo, their stories are never the same. Theresa, a young 20-something girl doesn’t just wear ink, she draws it. The pieces on her arms are bright, gorgeous and original, and you can almost read her personal story with each one. When I asked her why she thought just as many women were getting ink then men, she smiled. “I think it’s a power thing.” She felt that females have the ability to do, say, express whatever they want and tattoos are a great way to do that. I completely understand. Then there was Nora. What a peach! Nora didn’t get her first tattoo till she was 40. She didn’t think women should have tattoos. “Tats were for drunken men,” she told me with a grin. But on her 40th birthday she treated herself to her first tattoo. The only thing is… her son, only a 10 year-old boy at the time, insisted he go with her. An art prodigy since the age of 2, he wanted to make sure his mom’s ink was perfect. And, according to them both, it was. Her son decided that day that he was going to be a tattoo artist. That was it. Nothing else mattered. And she couldn’t be prouder. Years later, she is still getting tats on a regular basis. And her son is getting awards for his talent. She thinks it’s a great way to open up the doors of conversation that the internet, cell phones and texting have taken away. “People notice tattoos. They ask about them. They tell a story. They tell YOUR story. They start a conversation that may never have taken place.” I asked her if she was comfortable telling everything about herself when someone asked about her tats. “Absolutely. I have nothing to hide and everything to share.” She made me laugh when she said, “One day, when I’m in a nursing home, someone is going ask me ‘So tell me about yourself’ and I will start with this tattoo and show them my entire life.” I thought that was awesome.

I asked one girl who really didn’t seem like she wanted to talk too much about any thing, and especially not her tattoos. I thought I had struck some nerve when I asked if women got tattoos because it was “in” and fashionable. Suddenly, the quiet girl had a voice. “NO!,” she sternly said. “It represents who you are.” I said that fashion, in a sense, was the same–showing it off in certain way to show the kind of person you are. “NO! Fashion shows who you want to be. Tattoos ARE who you are. There’s no turning back.” Definitely a different perspective. You can’t take tattoos off like a pair of pair of GUESS jeans or a pair of Manolo Blanik shoes. It’s not just on you, it is you. And that’s way deeper than just carrying a Michael Kors bag. Way, way deeper!

So get ready for a month of tattoo talk. And PLEASE chime in. I’d love to hear your tat stories and pictures if you have any. Keep posting people. This is going to get fun!

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Sassy’s latest ink with more to come!<

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Sassy’s April Six

1 May

imageCan you be serious…. April is over? It’s MAY? I am the first to say that I have been waiting patiently for longer days and warmer temps for a while now. But wow, April sure flew by. I guess when you are stuck inside during cold, cruddy, wet weather, time flies. At least that’s what I’m trying to tell myself. Work with me.

Even with April flying by, I was still able to find my six monthly gotta-love-’em items. Some came in right under the wire too! So what did Sassy fall in love with last month? Lets take a look:

image1. Kate Spade’s “Live Colorfully” – Samples sell, people…samples sell. This was a scratch and sniff flap sample in one of my glam mags last month. I probably would have purchased a full sized bottle I liked it so much, but I’ve been falling for so many scents with this new season upon us so I decided to get the rollerball. This worked out perfect too because I can just throw it in my purse when I have a long day out of the house. With top notes of mandarin & pink water lily, a heart of golden gardenia & coconut water and nice lingering notes of sheer amber & tahitian vanilla, this light perfume stays with me all day. kate spade nailed this new scent for the season, in a bright crystal bottle with a light, refreshing scent. It combines fun, sexy, flirty and seductive all in one easy-to-wear, easy-to-carry scent. A Nordstrom exclusive! ($24.00)

image2. OPI’s Nail Lacquer in “Pussy Galore” – Go ahead, get the giggles out now. Heck, I did it too. Done? Okay. OPI created a fabulous collection based on fab girls from the James Bond movies. What’s so cool about this line is it is known as “liquid sand”. The polish, when dry, actually feels like you painted your nails then rolled them in…umm…sand! It’s different, it’s funky, and that’s what we love about OPI. The color “Pussy Galore” is a shimmery, sparkly baby pink. It is THE perfect polish if your nails are at an in between stage like mine are now. I broke a few so I had to cut them all down and start over. This color is muted enough to not stand out and scream, “My nails look like baahh!” but gives it enough color AND texture to still look neat. Right now I’m REALLY impressed that I’ve had it on for four days and do not have one chip. I might have to look further into the other colors in this collection! (Available at select beauty stores, $8.50)

image3. Lancôme Paris CILS BOOSTER XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base – Primers are not just hot sellers, but are becoming almost requirements to get the look you want with your makeup, plus get it to stay fresh looking all day. A sweetheart of a girl who works the fragrance counter at my local Macy’s is gorgeous, and one of her best features is her eyes. I asked her what exactly did she used and she showed me. Although I was familiar with the Hypnolash mascara she wore, I wasn’t familiar with this mascara primer. It’s really easy to use…basically goes on with a white base using a regular mascara brush. This pre-lengthens and pre-plumps your lashes, prepping them for whatever mascara you use, helping it to give your mascara its full potential. To combine it with Lancôme’s Hypnose Star Mascara gives you long, lush, full, fluffy lashes that STAY just like the instant you put it on and keeps going ALL DAY. Am I thrilled with adding another step to my routine?…not completely. But the fact that the Super-Enhancing Mascara Base mascara gives my eyes the look of wearing false lashes is totally FAB! Totally worth it—thanks, girlfriend! (Macy’s, $24.00)

image4. Yes To Blueberries Age Refresh Overnight Hydrating Cream – I’ve always been a fan of the Yes To brand. It targets specific concerns while keeping true to its promise of a natural, cruelty-free products. I am a big fan of the Yes To Cucumbers makeup remover wipes, so when I won this night cream from a website drawing, I was excited. I won’t lie: I have a nighttime serum that I use faithfully to help cell turnover, exposing younger firmer skin. But it’s a serum and serums target problem areas you want to fix. No matter whether it be day or night, you need a serum to do the dirty work, but you still need a daytime moisturizer with an SPF and a night cream that hydrates and combats aging. I have a lot of moisturizers that I’ve collected over the years, but nothing specifically for night. Yes To Blueberries Overnight Hydrating Cream was exactly what I needed. It is 97% natural, hydrates my skin without making it feel greasy, refreshing scent, and keeps my face smooth. Now the bad news–this specific YTB night cream is no longer available to the public. (*sniff sniff*-tissue please). But the good news it has been replaced by Yes To Blueberries Deep Wrinkle Night Cream. This product is 99% natural and works hard to fight deep wrinkles as well as to hydrate skin. You actually get more benefits with the newer product! I can personally say I have noticed a BIG difference in my skin with this cream. Plus the quantity for the price is AH-MA-ZING! Keeping me looking young is what I want and that is what YTB Night Cream does for for me. (Retail outlets & drug stores, $13.99)

image5. Nuance Cucumber & Rosewater Dual Phase Makeup Remover – Ever since I can remember, I’ve only used two eye makeup removers. After all these years, I now have a conundrum: one of them has gone up in price significantly and the other has been discontinued. Figures. I was given a sample of a high-end solution which I absolutely loved, but the price was really steep. So I headed to CVS to check out other options since they were having a fab skin care sale this week. I happened to stumble upon Salma Hayek’s Makeup Remover. It caught my eye instantly because it had the dual layer formula which is very important when removing waterproof makeup. I did a bit of online research and everyone who had tried it gave it five stars. Good testimonial right there. The regular price for a 4.3 oz. bottle is $7.99, but this week it was BOGO half price. AND I had a $1.50 off coupon. The deal was made. And I’m glad… because its awesome! It’s not greasy at all, has no scent, is very lightweight, and gets off even the toughest waterproof makeup (with glitter too!) I grabbed two bottles which should last for some time. I may even have to check out Salma Hayek’s other beauty items when I go back to the store! (CVS, $7.99)

image6. GUESS Kate Skinny Black Jeans with Side Lace Up – Okay, I’m sure the description alone sounds like something out of a Harley Biker Wear catalog. But it’s not. In fact, these jeans scream “Rockstar!” Low rise, true black denim pants with a crisis-cross lace design down on each outer side. They look hot, they make you feel sexy, they fit in all the right places and they are to die for. Nothing cutting, creasing, or wedging in the wrong places. I swear these jeans were made for me! In fact, so did Ian, my sales associate at GUESS! I’d LOVE for you to see an actual picture of them but they are SO NEW that they haven’t made it to the advertising phase yet. (I love being the new girl on the block.) The picture shown is the same pants in brown faux suede, so you get an idea. I have to say, without a smile, that these were the most expensive pair of jeans I have ever bought. And if I didn’t think they’d get worn or didn’t fit that good, I would not have bought them. But oh baby….. I WILL get my money’s worth and then some. And then some more! (GUESS retail stores, $148)

I have to say, I was worried early in the month. I wasn’t buying a lot of things and was pretty content with what I was using. Plus the weather is getting warmer so digging out the Spring clothes was like getting a whole new wardrobe! But these fab six managed to make their way into my life, and for that I’m thankful. As always, I encourage you to try one or more of these great products if you are looking for something specific or if you just want to try something new. Sassy likes them. I hope you do too! And of course, if you do?… LET ME KNOW!!

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SO Not Your Mother’s Hair….

23 Apr

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About a month ago, I started noticing a lot of Tweets about, to and from some company known only as “NYM”. Being a New Yorker, I just figured it had something to do with my state. But after a bit of research, I realized “NYM” stood for Not Your Mother’s, a brand of hair styling products that gives you salon-looking glam with an easy on the wallet price. Okay, no offense? But just about EVERY styling product claims that. So I’m like….okay, whatever. NEXT!

But the rave reviews kept coming in, through Facebook, through Twitter, through blogs everywhere. What was it that NYM’s products had that people loved? I had to find out the scoop. And the fabulous people at Not Your Mother’s were excited to tell me all about them, and to let me try a couple too!

not_your_mothers_kinkymovesThe first product I sampled was NYM’s “Kinky Moves” Curl Defining Hair Cream. Now, granted, it wasn’t easy for my daughter to handle a product named that to be on our vanity counter. (Even I had a thought or two when I looked at the label.–Shudders). But we moved along. I naturally have wavy hair, but it easily gets flat, frizzy or… just… bleh, sometimes for no reason. I’ve tried setting gels, mousses, curl enhancers–you name it–without much luck and not doing what the product promised. This Curl Defining Hair Cream not only said it would define and enhance naturally curly or wavy hair, but it also would de-frizz and detangle frazzled hair. Plus, thanks to the fabulous benefits of grape seed oil (love that stuff, read more about it here) that had been added to the product, the cream would add gloss, shine and UV protection benefits as well.

When I first used it after a regular shower, I immediately noticed its fabulous scent. I am a fanatic about the smell of hair products. I can’t stand it when hair styling products reeks of alcohol or artificial fragrances. If a product has natural, healthy ingredients in it, it should smell natural and healthy! This NYM’s product smelled of fresh grapes with a hint of jasmine. Yummy. It’s not a heavy or fake scent and I loved it. Okay, so like most people with, thick long hair, I figured I would need a substantial amount of the product to get the result I wanted, right? Ummm…..WRONG! Live and learn. A little more than a quarter-sized dollop is all I needed to rub into my hands and coat my damp hair, from roots to ends. After a comb through with a wide tooth comb, I messed my hair a bit with my fingertips and blew it dry upside down. The look I got was FABULOUS! My natural waves were full and bouncy, and not sticky and gooey. It felt soft and smelled good! I just used my fingers to style the full, wavy look I loved. Now I was ready to lock it in. But with what?….

not_your_mothers_shesatease…. with a Not Your Mother’s “She’s A Tease” Volumizing Hairspray, that’s what! Unlike my daughter, I love…LOOOOOOOVE…..the big hair rocker look. I grew up with it, I think it’s fun, and it is sooooo me! Back in the day, we used a can of alcohol/bug spray-smelling Aqua Net, freezing each spray with a hairbrush, curling iron and hair dryer giving us a look of full hair that would make any 80’s girl proud. Now, I like that full look still, but I don’t want the stickiness, the crazy-glue stiffness, the frizz and that chemical smell that reminded me of 9th grade science class. (“Stay away from the Bunsen burners, ladies!”) For years, I’ve been sniff testing hair sprays to find one that didn’t smell like moonshine, but still had good hold. “She’s A Tease” gives me everything I want in a hairspray: a firm hold, lift and volume and humidity resistance keeping the frizzies in check. In addition, NYM’s Volumizing Hairspray contains apple blossom and bamboo extract to strengthen your hair and give you extra volume with a nice scent. The hold is STRONG! You don’t have look for the formula that’s right for you…. there is one formula which works for everyone. A no brainier! This, by far, is my favorite hair spray on the market right now. An all-day manageable hold with a smell I love!

I am so glad I discovered this great brand. It’s not a line of products that will flood your TV with commercials or jam your magazines with luke-warm ads. But it is out in stores where you can get it and with salon results at drug store prices! Seriously, that is amazing. I think word of mouth is great advertising–honest and convincing–and I will certainly do my part to get the information about NYM’s products to fashionistas everywhere… they’re that good. You can find Not Your Mother’s “Kinky Moves” Curl Defining Hair Cream and “She’s A Tease” Volumizing Hairspray as well as other fabulous products in their line at stores in your area such as CVS, Target, Walmart and ULTA Beauty. To order online, you can find Not Your Mother’s products at cvs.com, ULTA.com and drugstore.com. The price for the items I tried is an extremely reasonable $6 each.

This Sassinista is telling you to run–not walk–to get Not Your Mother’s products to treat yourself and your hair to some fabulous styling and pampering. Don’t forget to follow them on Twitter and Facebook too! They often have deals and contests which is FAB! I love the products, my hair loves them, and I have found a way to keep my auburn tresses smelling and looking fab all day long. A salon look without the salon price? One word–awesome!

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Sassy’s Spring Six

8 Apr

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Happy April, spring seekers!  Are you ready for the snow to be gone? Ready for some warmer days? Dying to get some of your warmer clothes out from hiding? Can you hear your sandals yelling, “Let me out! Let me out!”  Well, Sassinistas, that time is just about here! Granted, you will get a cold day and night once in a while, but for the most part you can feel the sun getting warmer each day and that is a fabulous, FABULOUS thing. Even though the seasons have changed, that hasn’t changed the fact that I can still find some great Sassy items for ALL seasons!  What six did I find during March?  Let’s see:

LorealCode1. L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Dark Spot Correcting & Illuminating Serum Corrector: Fact or fiction: An uneven facial skin tone effects how old you look. Fact! Oh, and not just a little… uneven skin tone can make you look as much as 10 years older!  It is important to help keep your skin looking young as long as you can however you can. L’Oreal’s Serum can help to correct and revitalize skin tone by lightening dark spots, age spots, sun damage and post acne marks. I noticed a difference in my skin tone in just two weeks. I never had major damage to my skin tone, but this product even brightened my dull skin to make it look younger. What I love to do? Mix two pumps of the L’Oreal Serum with a shake of my favorite mineral powder and I have a nice, light, creamy foundation that is keeping me young! (Available at most drug and retail stores, $24.99)

FriedaRed2. John Frieda Radiant Red Colour Protecting Shampoo & Conditioner: Most of us “gingers” (I actually don’t like that term, so that will be the only time you’ll see me use it here) try anything to keep our red locks looking bright & fresh. And it’s not easy. Last month I wrote how I’m hooked on using cranberry juice as a rinse to keep my red hair nourished and bright, but now I also found a daily shampoo and conditioner to help as well.  It nice knowing I’m using a hair product specifically for my hair color, to enhance its tones and prevents fading. Leave it to John Frieda–a hair genius–to develop daily use products to help not just specific hair concerns but also specific hair colors. The results I’ve had with this line is great. My bright red is staying bright even longer!! (Available at most drug and retail stores, $6.99 each)

RocketMascara3. Maybelline Volum’ Express ‘The Rocket’ Waterproof Mascara: Good lord, my middle make up drawer is starting to look a mascara graveyard. I could write a college paper on what mascaras don’t cut it, aren’t that great, haven’t got what it takes, or just plain suck. My list of mascaras I like is definitely a short one. The promotional hype on Maybelline’s new Rocket mascara is certainly eye-catching…probably because it is in every magazine, is seen frequently in TV ads, and is surround you at every corner when you are in the cosmetic department of every drug store. So, like, YEAH, I’m going to buy it because I’m still in search of the “ultimate” mascara. Fact is, this isn’t it. But don’t let that discourage you from buying it.  It actually has incredible stay power, with absolutely no smudging or flaking all day. Its small mini comb brush help to coat each lash while separating them. I would like it a bit more if I got more length from it, but for an everyday stay put mascara, it is worthy of being on the vanity! (Available at most drug and retail stores, $7.49)

JCHeart4. Juicy Couture’s Pave Heart & Toggle Luxe Necklace: Listen, being a sassinista goes way beyond just having your makeup and shoes looking good. Fashion and glamour starts on the inside and works its way out, from head to toe. Now, listen up here because this is very important. When you visit brand or company websites, most of them want you to sign up for their emails or e-newsletters. Your inner voice says, “Hellz to the no! I don’t want an inbox full of crap.” Let me say that maybe a good percentage is just blah-blah-blah, but every once in a while a contest, a coupon or a deal will come through that will make it all worth those repetitive deletes. And I landed one of those last month. Juicy Couture followers received an email stating they were having a Facebook Fan sale on one item at a ridiculously low price. So, wanting to see what it was, I ventured over to Facebook and checked out their page. Sure enough, there it was: they were having a sale for just Facebook fans on their pave heart and toggle necklace. It was available in three shades–gold, silver and rose gold. AND they were offering free shipping. This gorgeous necklace, regularly $70, was available FOR ONE DAY ONLY for $38. I was on it like a moth on a lightbulb. It was delivered in four days, beautifully packaged, and was accompanied with a tester perfume. Marketing emails can overrun your inbox, but sometimes it’s worth it’s weight in rosé gold! Seriously, create a gmail account for just fashion and beauty sites to keep them separate from the pictures of your Aunt Betty’s birthday party. You never know what surprises may come your way. (Sold out, but other great pieces available at juicycouture.com)

Vaseline5. Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturizer:  I’ll be honest: I really didn’t think a spray-on quick drying moisturizer would a) work; b) be useful; or c) work. (Did I say that already? Sorry.)  The thought behind it was remarkable. Spray on an all over moisturizer that would dry fast so you could get ready faster. Now, given, there are days when I like to take some time after a shower when I can really pamper myself with a nicely scented body butter, maybe with a bit of shimmer. Those are days I can allow the moisturizer to slowly soak in giving me time to relax and enjoy the experience. Then there are the days I hit the snooze button way too many times and I have to FLY! No time for a long relaxing shower, no time to select a soothing scented moisturizer to put on. No way, to-day! I gotta go!! That’s when I first tried the Vaseline® Spray & Go™ Moisturizer. Okay, gotta say, it was nice. Of course my skin didn’t have that luxurious creamy feel to it, but it was soft, smooth, and I was able to dress fast. I like that the moisturizer scents don’t collide with my perfumes too.  It’s a great way to give your skin the moisture it needs when time is of the essence! (Available at most drug and retail stores, $7.99)

Beer6. Beer  If you asked someone what they do with their left over beer, almost everyone will say, “What’s that?” Beer is a readily available drink which is a necessity during football games and college parties. But did you know it has a formula that is great for your hair? Do you care that you can put it on your head and not throw a ping-pong ball in it? If you do, then it will be helpful to know that there is protein in the malt and the hops in beer. These will coat, repair and replenish your hair making it soft and shiny. These natural ingredients are a great way to give your hair a shiny, full bounce. You can open a new can or use some leftovers…. it’s up to you. I do suggest, however, that you don’t use the beer in Uncle Larry’s red Solo Cup. You might lose a body part if you try that.  (Available at… well, hell, you know where to get beer.)

I couldn’t be happier to wish my blog lovers and Twitter followers a Happy Spring!  Remember, the sun is getting brighter and warmer so don’t forget your sunscreen and use this as a reason to go out and get yourself a pair a flashy, hawt sunglasses! Start fading in those great, bright spring colors into your closet and just enjoy the days we’ve been patiently waiting for!!

spring

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Butter up, Buttercup!…

30 Mar

imageI‘ll be honest, when I hear the word butter, two things come to mind:

  • Cholesterol
  • Homemade sugar cookies

Since my medical numbers are good and I’m pretty fit, I thought I should look beyond these butters and research some of the “butters” that are on the market for us glamour junkies. A “butter” in the beauty field usually refers to a rich, emollient cream that is very thick–almost solid–to help moisturize some of the driest parts of your body. Oh and trust me, there are quite a few that don’t just work good but smell good too. Maybe not warm sugar cookie good, but pretty close.

Over the years, here are a few “butters” that I have found are a must in my beauty routine….not in your kitchen. You may want to get a batch for yourself:

imageKorres Lip Butters – Oh, as soon as cooler weather rolls in, I start stocking up. When I first tried Korres Lip Butter about 3 years ago, I found it purely by accident while waiting I’m line to pay for a Christmas purchase at Sephora. They had a display of inexpensive items that would be good stocking stuffers. This was one of them. It was Guava (clear) scented which was great because I was mainly planning to use it at night. Since then, they have expanded their colors and “flavors” to include shades such as pomegranate (sheer coral), quince (sheer rose), and plum (sheer lavender berry). I like the fact that the lip butters now come in a variety of tints so I can just smooth on some moisturizer AND color without a big mirror/makeup ensemble. Natural oils and extracts help to soothe and condition lips. Shea butter and rice wax provide lasting hydration and softness for a long time. Seriously?…. Get one in every flavor/color! (Available exclusively at Sephora, $12 each)

imageBliss Lemon+Sage Body Butter Maximum Moisture Cream – Voted best scented and body moisturizer by Sephora regulars several years in a row, it’s easy to know why. This rich cream is packed with things like coconut oil which softens skin and soybean oil which protects the skin with a moisturizing barrier, enabling the skin to get back its soft smooth texture. And the scent is perfect… for men and women alike! This body butter goes on like silk and leaves the skin soft, smooth and moist–not greasy at all. Great for hands, feet or all over! (Available at Sephora, $29 for a large tube)

imageAlmond Hand & Nail Butter – No matter what the season is, your hands are always out there taking a beating. Chapped from winter winds, dry from spring cleaning, rough from summer gardening, you name it. You need a cream specifically for hands, nails & cuticles because they take on abuse the rest of you body doesn’t get involved in. This fabulous butter restores moisture to dry skin for up to 24 hours. Not only that, it takes care to prevent dry, brittle nails and rough, cracked cuticles. It contains sweet almond oil and has a silky-smooth, non-greasy finish. This long-lasting moisturizer is topped off with a delish sweet almond scent! (Available at The Body Shop, $15)

So, if your doctor allows, put yummy butter all over your popcorn, your warm muffins and your tasty crab legs…. dig in!! But if you want to limit your fat intake, enjoy it on the outside instead of the inside. These fabulous “butters” with keep your skin soft, smooth, rich and moisturized from head to toe!

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Sassy’s Sexy Six…

5 Mar

Six

Each month, I try to list six new things that I have found, tried, and liked. They may be something I will include in my daily routine, or they may just be something that I think is a good product but just not for me. Here are my six favorite things that I found in February that I think are pretty awesome and you might like as well:

Towelettes1) Garnier Sensitive Skin Towelettes – I am a fan of many Garnier products, but when I saw this one, it really caught my eye. Not because it just removed waterproof mascara (which is very important to me) but also because that it was dye free, fragrance free AND made for sensitive skin! I like that they offer two different towelettes for different skin types. Heaven knows we ALL don’t have the same skin type, and the more specific the products I use on mine, the better. Keeping my fingers crossed that these will be a nice choice for a “clean face on the fly” situation. (Walmart, $4.97)

LeGloss2) L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Le Gloss Lip Gloss – I am a lip gloss whore. I admit it. I will try anything new, and the shinier the better. I got a sample as a perk one month from L’Oreal and didn’t think too much of it. I just added it to the collection. But one day, I was in a bind for a nude gloss so I grabbed the L’Oreal sample of Nude Illusion. OMG, fell in love immediately! Yup, samples sell. I went out, coupons and deals in hand, and I got three more shades to cover just about every color scheme I own. The gloss is shiny, it’s consistency is thick, and it screams runway ready. And it has just a hint of butter cream scent/flavor which is fab. Just what I love–my kind of gloss! (CVS, $7.99)

BCBG3) BCBGMAXAZRIA Bon Chic Perfume – I was really in the mood for a new scent to welcome in the new season that is quickly approaching, so I wanted something bold, sassy, fresh, sexy and alluring. I found all that and more from BCBG. Not only that, but for a limited time, Macy’s is offering a complete fragrance set with medium sized bottle of the perfume, a purse sized bottle, a shower gel and a body lotion, all for one low price. I always stress that layering your scent will help it last longer and keep the scent true. This set gives you everything to do just that. Oh and did I mention you just happen to get a large gold overnight bag as a free gift with purchase? Ah, yah…cha ching! Freebies=good! (Macy’s, $75)

BlackDiamonds4) Sally Hansen Diamond Strength No Chip Nail Color in Black Diamonds – The black polish thing is really growing on me. When done neat and precise, it’s very stunning. But I have to admit I’m a sparkly/frost polish kind of girl and most black polishes are just shiny black. When I found Sally Hansen’s diamond polish, it was exactly what I had been looking for. Straight up black with bling. I think it’s going to be perfect for pretty designs and funky looks, plus make people take a second look at my jazzy nails! (CVS, $4.99)

JuicyPants5) Juicy Couture Velour Track Pants – Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a brand chaser. If it fits and looks nice, then it is for me. That goes from thrift store jeans right through to couture gowns. With that being said, I never was a huge fan of Juicy track attire because I actually thought you were just paying for the name and you could get something comparable at a less expensive retail store. Okay, that was until I got a scream of a coupon deal with Juicy that I couldn’t pass up. I had a code for an additional 70% off all sale merchandise. My first thought was to check out the velour pants since they are so known and chic. I found two pair, less than $30 each on sale with the code. I got them and they are awesome! The fit is great, they wash like a dream, hold their softness, and look fab. I doubt I’ll ever pay full price for a pair, but on a sale like that, I had to follow the trend! (JuicyCouture.com, $23)

CranberryJuice6) Cranberry Juice – Nope, it’s not just for bladder infections anymore! (Sorry, bad female joke) As a redhead it is important for me to do whatever I need to in order to keep my hair its sexy shade of red and prevent premature fading. Cranberry juice does just that. Now remember, you can’t just buy a cheap store brand of some juice blend. You need to be specific here. You have to find 100% cranberry juice, unsweetened and not in a blend. Ingredients should be: cranberry juice, water. THAT’S IT! After I condition my hair in the shower, I let it set for a minute or two then take a small mist bottle full of the cranberry juice and cover the hair, lifting and spritzing. Massage the juice in with the conditioner and make sure all your hair is coated. Let sit a few more minutes then rinse THOROUGHLY! The natural color of the cranberries plus its abundance of vitamin C helps to brighten your hair, prevent breakage, and protect it from harsh environmental elements. Keeping those auburn locks shiny is major plus in my book! (R.W. Knudsen Just Cranberry Juice 32 oz., Walmart, $5.75)

So these are my six sexy finds in the past month. How about you? Have anything new you have bought or sampled that you weren’t expecting to like or buy? Show and tell, ladies! We want to know! Us females are always dying to dish about some new goodie or tricks that we just love to love. So share away!!

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New Season…New Scent!

26 Feb

SassyPerfume

It’s about that time of year. The calendar is showing that spring is getting closer even if the weather isn’t. Fall and winter merchandise is on clearance, but seeing shorts and swimsuits in the store gives me goose bumps. This is a “mixed emotions” time of year. You know that better days are coming but it seems like it takes every last ounce of energy to get through the ones that are here. Ugh.

I think one of the best things to do when the winter funk gets me down is to get myself a new perfume. It lifts my mood, brings a smile to my face, and helps remind me that spring days will soon be here. Even when it is snowing or sleeting outside, or there is a winter weather advisory scrolling along the bottom of my TV screen (like right this very second), smelling a new, uplifting, fresh fragrance can give me that little bit of “oomph” to get through the day and daydream about better days to come.

Yesterday I set out–clear nose and coffee beans in pocket—to my local high-end department store to search out a new fragrance. I have to say, the scratch n sniff samples that have come in my magazines lately just haven’t jazzed me. I’m pretty particular. I don’t like overly mature scents. I’m not huge into heavy florals. And I certainly do not like musky perfumes since they smell like a locker room when I wear them. I like fruity scents with a light touch of bright florals and with a lingering scent, like vanilla, that sticks around for a while.

After several samples on cards, sniffing, whiffing, fanning and running through different spritzes in the air at the store (looking like a total goofball I’m sure”, I narrowed down my choices to my four favorite scents right now. Here is what I liked:

GuessGUESS – I am a huge Guess brand fan. I have it all: shoes, boots, jeans, tops, handbags, jewelry, you name it. When I saw the stunning, feminine bottle of the Guess perfume, a part of me gasped just a bit since it just seemed like a natural choice for me. I have to say, it didn’t disappoint me. It screams everything I like when I wear a scent: exciting, bold, sexy, and playful. It makes an entrance with notes of raspberry nectar, melon and bergamot, followed up by tinges of orchid, acacia flower and lily. All that gets wrapped up with sandalwood and bourbon vanilla for a scent that stays. This scent leaves a bit of a “heavy” impression which doesn’t always translates well on me, but it is still one that I’d love to have in my collection.

DOTDOT by Marc Jacobs – I’m a die-hard fan of “Daisy” so I did not expect this fragrance to let me down. And it didn’t. The scent alone says bubbly, giggly, energetic and alive. Just like the name only has three letters, it can be described in three letters as well—F U N. This upbeat fragrance has top notes of red berries, dragon fruit, honeysuckle, middle notes of jasmine, coconut water and orange blossom, all tied together with the warmth of vanilla. DOT by Marc Jacobs gives you a simple, straight-forward, sophisticated scent with a balance of sheer elegance. This is without a doubt an anytime, anywhere with anything scent!

BieberGirlfriendGIRLFRIEND by Justin Bieber – Yeah, I said it… don’t hate! You don’t have to be a screaming girl with Bieber Fever to appreciate the scents that Justin puts his name on. I certainly was not disappointed with SOMEDAY and I wasn’t disappointed with GIRLFRIEND either. Top scents of mandarin, blackberry, pear and strawberry with dreams of pink freesia, star jasmine, apricot nectar and orange blossom keep this scent light and young. Hints of vanilla orchid and light musk kisses your senses to keep the scent lingering even after the scent begins to die down. Of course, its target market if the young Beetle-mania type girls who will buy anything with JB’s name on it. But I have to say, it is young, it’s flirty, it takes your breath away, and it makes you feel like a teen again (without all the heartache!)

BCBGBCBGMAXAZRIA Bon Chic – Out of all the fragrances I tested, I think this one is my fave. I liked BCBGMAXAZRIA’s original scent, so to see one with a different edge really caught my eye. It has all the notes that I love in a perfume: Asian pear, black raspberry, mango, pink peony, orange blossom and violet. These light tones are all enveloped in sandalwood, cashmere musk and vanilla to keep it forward but light. I like this refined scent with persuasive accents. It makes a huge entrance and drips with extravagant textures that keeps your senses enticed and other people’s senses allured. This is such a Sassy scent. SO me! It hits you with a sexy “Wow!”, followed by a “What a confident, enchanting, sexy woman!”. Then, as the girl passes by, her memory lingers, and you can’t help but say, “Who WAS that girl?” THAT is the impression I like to leave, and this great scent will help.

So have I tempted you? In the mood to go find yourself a new perfume to help you transition into a new season? Now is time! Simple things to remember: don’t spray them all on you—spray a tester card, then label it so you remember what it was; don’t sniff too many—it will confuse your sense of smell and if that happens, that’s when a wiff of coffee beans can help; don’t go sniffing if you have a cold or allergies—n thing will smell right or even smell at all!;, and most of all—be open minded. You might not like a name or brand, but that doesn’t mean you won’t like the fragrance. Lightly sniff the bottle without spraying, if you like it, spritz a test card, wave it to give it time to breathe, then smell it again. If you are still liking it, try it on your clean wrists next time you go into the store and see how it stays with you make sure it doesn’t react to your skin. If it’s goood, then go for it! That new scent might just be what Old Man Winter needs to get him out of town and rush in the warmer weather that’s right on the horizon!!

All products in this post are available at your local Macy’s or Macy’s online at macys.com

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Happy Hair…AND a Fab Contest!

19 Feb

Parn1
PARNEVU is a company that prides itself on making salon-quality hair products to help restore, condition, repair and prevent damaged hair. Their two lines are their T-Tree hair products and their Extra Dry hair products. Both of these lines are fabulous for those who, like many of us, like to over-process, over-style, or use a LOT of products on our locks that can damage them so much, it can stall the growth of new, healthy hair.

Parn2Tea Tree oil is THE perfect ingredient for hair care products if your hair is slow to grow, damaged, or if you have scalp issues. It helps remove product build up, stop itchy scalp, strengthens hair, prevents breakage and helps repair split ends. This is great to know if you process your hair by either chemically straightening or curling; bleaching or coloring; or over-style with excessive products and/or appliances. Tea Tree oil restores and prevents further damage to hair that has been over processed and over worked. The other ingredients in PARNEVU’s T-Tree product line also help to protect and condition your hair as well.

Parn3PARNEVU’s Extra Dry products are salon-quality products to help people with VERY dry hair, packed with ingredients to help extremely damaged hair and dry scalp. I think we know exactly what that type of hair that is. I remember it vividly: the days of perming, sitting in the sun with a pint of Sun In on it, blowing it completely dry and finishing it with a can of hair spray. THAT hair would be worthy of PARNEVU’s Extra Dry products. Ah, to know then what I know now….

Although my hair isn’t as bad as it was when I was in 20’s (mainly because I smartened up!), I still have to say I am guilty of dry hair due to coloring it every four weeks, blowing it dry often, flat ironing it occasionally, using too much styling products on a frequent basis, as well as dealing with environmental issues on a daily basis (pollution, weather, air quality, etc). Not to mention there are times I do a bun or an up-do which can really break or damage hair as well. I probably never pick up hair products with that much thought as to whether they would help the specific problems that I have with my tresses or prevent ones on a daily basis. But after reading how PARNEVU’s could help the problems I DO have, and prevent ones I DON’T, I thought it might be good to give them a try.

Parn4Since my hair and scalp can be exceptionally dry (especially in the colder months!), I decided to try their Extra Dry Salon Shampoo and After-Shampoo Conditioner. I’ve always said good hair starts right from step one, and that is with washing! I immediately liked the scent of the product which is always important to me. I also notice it wasn’t…. how do I say… heavy? It wasn’t loaded down with extra additives. It looked and smelled clean. The shampoo CLEANSED my hair and scalp. It didn’t coat it, leave it sticky, or left it feeling weighed down. It felt—and smelled—clean! The directions suggest you “lather, rinse and repeat” which I did. You don’t need a ton of shampoo to get the job done either. When washing it twice, a quarter-sized drop will do the job with great results. After shampooing, I used the conditioner. Again, I really liked the scent and even that wasn’t heavy and gooey. It was a lightweight cream that coated and conditioned my locks. I let it set a few minutes then rinsed out with luke-warm water. I don’t know how many different ways I can say it…my hair and scalp felt clean! REALLY clean! Not only did I feel like the products removed all the product build-up without leaving my hair stripped and dry, but I felt like it really condition and repaired my hair. It was a really good feeling! It was even a better feeling when I used it consistently for several months. Even if I “fussed” with my hair with styling or products, the PARNEVU Extra Dry line actually prevented damage from occurring. It was like giving my luscious auburn locks a suit of armour without feeling like they were loaded with unnecessary fragrances, oils, additives and bulk. It was a natural, squeaky clean that I really liked every day.

Parn5I think the frosting on the cake was PARNEVU’s Extra Dry Shining Gel. Because I always use something to help hold in my loose natural waves, I wanted a product that wouldn’t leave my hair feeling gummy but would let my natural curls shine though. OMG, this was better than I hoped! I have to say, the product felt really funny—almost like old school Dippity Do. (If you are too young to know what I am talking about, please keep me in your thoughts but refrain from sending me AARP membership applications, thank you.) You really need VERY little of this product. Although it looks and feels thick, it practically melts into your hands and smoothes into your hair without the stickiness or heaviness you might expect. The jar is large and since you use so little, it will last you a long time! I usually just scoop out a soda-cap sized dollop and let rub it with my hands till it “melts”. (I have pretty long hair.) Then I run my hands and fingers through my hair, paying special attention to the top layer (for shine) and the ends (for hold). Even if you decide to go two days without washing your hair, the Shining Gel does not make your hair tacky or knotted, which is nice to allow you to give your hair a styling break.

Although PARNEVU can be found in some retail outlets, I think it is just as easy to get it from their website. (And they are having a sale till March 13th when you use the coupon code FANCY25) Plus they often have other deals going on for their customers so it’s best to check out their website first. Even though their products are salon quality, they are not salon priced! The entire set that I have been using– Dry Extra Dry Salon Shampoo, After-Shampoo Conditioner, and Shining Gel—is only $15 ($5 each piece). To get your hair and scalp in healthy, happy condition, that is a fabulous price for these products. Drugstore products are almost the same price and we know that salon products are more than TWICE that much!

Kudos on your line, PARNEVU! It’s nice to see a great array of items to keep our tresses clean and healthy. I am sure my glamour-istas will be glad to know they can have happy hair too! Want to try PARNEVU products? They can be purchased at your local beauty supply store or online at http://www.parnevu.com. For current giveaways and coupon codes, connect with them on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/parnevu and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/parnevu.

As a perk for our fans, PARNEVU and I will be giving away a set of the products that I fell in love with–
PARNEVU’s Dry Extra Dry Salon Shampoo, After-Shampoo Conditioner, and Extra Dry Shining Gel. To enter, you must do ALL of the following:

1) Follow @PARNEVU on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/parnevu)
2) Like PARNEVU on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/parnevu)
3) Follow @SassyAuburn on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/sassyauburn) and
4) Leave a comment below on this blog post as to what you would like to change about your hair. Make sure you leave your Twitter ID in your response.

All four things must be done to be entered for the prize. Contest begins February 20th at 12:01pm est and will end at March 7th at 11:59pm est. Winner will be chosen at random from entries that have completed all requirements and will be notified via private message on Twitter. Good luck!!

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