Lip Gloss and Laptops

Podcasting into the Sunset

Kerry Anne — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:45:29 +0000

Sadly, I announced on this week’s podcast (#138) that I will not be continuing on Lip Gloss and Laptops beyond September 2009, due to my busy academic schedule, and some other professional commitments I will be taking on. It’s decision I did not take lightly, and frankly, it makes me sad.

I’ve had a great run doing that show for the past two and a half years from the little basement studio, my living room, the road, hotel rooms, Vegas, Lynnwood, (heh heh) the list goes on. As Air says, it’s a great body of work that I should feel proud of, and I do. I’m also proud to have shared the mic with such a wonderful co-host, and made so many amazing and wonderful connections from our listeners all over the world, and right here in our backyard. Many of you I will continue to keep in touch with via email and these lovely little social networking sites. I’m sorry if my departure disappoints you guys.

Airdrie and I will continue to record this summer, bringing some kick ass shows to ya’ll, and the blog will go on…providing our readers with product reviews and all the other interesting things Air can cook up. I am hoping that Airdrie continues the podcast in some shape or form, even though one of the greatest things about it was our collaboration on it. I know she’ll have people lining up to be on the show with her, and there is so much wonderful west coast talent here. Maybe I can do the odd guest spot, like the Christmas Special, wearing a special Christmas sweater, but for now, I need to concentrate on some life balance and getting my ass into grad school.

As we discussed on the podcast this week, we’d love to hear any feedback from our listeners as to how you’d like to see the show go if Air does continue. I know how much she enjoys doing the show and values our community of listeners. Brainstorming welcome. When a door closes, a window opens, and there is much potential for L&L. I just don’t have the time to give it the attention it deserves.

Thank you so much to all of you who have supported our show. It’s been a slice.

Episode #138 Loads of great reviews for summer, and some changes coming. . . hold on to your hats, ladies.

Kerry Anne — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 04:47:18 +0000

Chi Silk Infusion Reconstructing Complex

EOS Organic Lip Balm Sphere and Tube

MAC Style Warrior

Aveda Smooth Infusion Glossing Straightener

Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil

Links

Shag, Marry, Kill from The Hangover movie
Canadian Beauty – Check out this great Canadian Beauty Blog!

Reality Check: Retinol VS Retin-A, buyer beware!

Song of the Week
Fugato
“I’m Sorry You Feel That Way” (mp3)
from “The Stash”
(Sandbar Music)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
Buy at Amazon MP3
Buy at appliedSB / Groupietunes
Buy at mTraks
More On This Album

Always Infinity now available in Canada

Airdrie — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 03:59:57 +0000

Always is giving away an advance sample box of their new product, Always Infinity, to a lucky Lip Gloss and Laptops listener/reader. Simply fill out the box below for your chance to win one box of Heavy Absorbancy Pads. Always Infinity hits Canadian store shelves on July 24, 2009. Good luck!

Episode #137 Dr. Denese Glow Younger Self Tanner, Naked Honey from MAC, Vichy, FatGirlSlim, Tassimo Coffee Machine and more!

Kerry Anne — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 06:25:25 +0000

Show Notes

Listen to our Podcast here, or subscribe in iTunes and load us on your MP3 player.

Airdrie’s Reviews:

Dr. Denese Glow Younger Clear Self Tanner for Face & Body

(watch for Dr. Denese on QVC in the USA)

MAC Naked Honey Skin Salve: A must have! Go buy it before it disappears.

Formulated from organic beeswax, sunflower oil and other natural ingredients, this rich honey-scented and flavoured salve instantly moisturizes and helps recondition dry skin. Multi-purpose. Use everywhere. Limited edition.($22.50 CDN)

Avène Trixéra+ Sélectiose® Emollient Cream: Daily skin care cream for very dry, atopic skin conditions that nourishes, restores the skin barrier, soothes irritation and reduces skin hypersensitivity.

Maybelline Define-A-Lash® Washable Lengthening Mascara (Green Tube!) – A great day-wear drugstore mascara. Airdrie loves it.

This zero clump mascara creates stunning length with clean definition.

* Ophthalmologist tested, Contact lens safe
* Washable; also available in waterproof formula

Tassimo: The Art of the Perfect Cup Derek and I love our Tassimo Coffee Machine. Consider this as a great purchase for your dad or husband this Father’s Day!

Kerry Anne’s Reviews:

Vichy Lumineuse Sheer Tinted Moisturizer

bliss fatgirlslim

Links:

ShopSmart Magazine
Cuchini

Music:

Theme music: “Pour elles qui sont belles” by 3 of cups (used by permission)
Song of the week: “The Car Song” by The Cat Empire (used by permission of Indica Records)

Episode #137 delayed

Derek — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:01:31 +0000

Sorry everyone, but Airdrie and Kerry Anne are postponing episode #137 an extra week until next Wednesday, June 17. The end of the school year and everything else have us all extra-busy and we simply didn’t have time to put a show together this week. Our apologies.

Botox: the final results are in

Airdrie — Fri, 29 May 2009 05:17:35 +0000

Today marks three weeks since I had the Botox Cosmetic injections in my forehead. I had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Frame at the Vancouver AntiAging Clinic. We both agreed that the results are successful. I am no longer able to make deep frowning gestures with my eyes, and the permanent wrinkles will stop developing with continued treatment. I know there are people who don’t think I need this, but I’m telling you that on more than one level I *really* needed a little pick-me-up at this time in my life. My husband’s cancer diagnosis has given me many days of tears and worry. I feel like I’m all cried-out, and that it’s time to start tapping-in to my inner beauty again. I felt the same happy feeling when I had my two front teeth capped and veneered to match each other. I had had a traumatic tooth injury as a child which left one front tooth dead, and the other one healthy. For years they did not match, and I felt like I was missing-out. I felt ugly. Ever since I had them fixed, I’ve never looked back. I feel that Botox has given me a similar outlook. As I mentioned on last week’s show, I’m now planning to factor Botox into my beauty budget.

Here are some photos, taken in chronological order.

Angry Face: before

Angry Face: one week after botox

Angry Face: is gone at 3 weeks after botox

Eyebrow lift: achieved with botox

One last shot: I’m in love with my eye-brows

If you have any questions about my Botox treatment, please leave a comment or send me an email.

Please note that I did not receive any payment for this review. I had to cough-up the whole $370 myself, and my motivations for getting Botox are purely personal. I just wanted to share the experience with my Lip Gloss and Laptops community because we talk about cosmetic procedures so often in our Reality Check segment of the show.

Episode #136 Smashbox, Coppertone NutraShield, L’Oreal Double Extend Mascara and much more!

Kerry Anne — Wed, 27 May 2009 03:17:49 +0000

Show Notes

Listen to our Podcast here, or subscribe in iTunes and load us on your MP3 player.

Kerry Anne’s Reviews

bliss super minty soap n’ scrub is amazing!

Smashbox

KA has been testing a few products from Sephora’s Smashbox Master’s Class Vol. 4 Rescue Beauty, including the Illuminating Serum, Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light (oil-free), Photo Op Undereye Brightener and the O-Glow Intuitive Cheek Color. The Illuminating Serum is really the standout in this collection for me, and it is only available in this kit. Here’s hoping that Smashbox eventually offers this product for individual sale.

Airdrie Reviews:

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty inspired by Carmindy Truly Translucent Loose Powder

L’Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Technology Mascara

Coppertone NutraShield Sunscreen Lotion with Dual Defense

Lise Watier SUN SMART Universal UV Shield with “Sensational Touch”, SPF 30.

Song of the Week

Derek Miller
(No, not Airdrie’s husband—this is a different Derek Miller, but he’s also Canadian.)
“Stormy Eyes” (mp3)
from “The Dirty Looks”
(Arbor Records Ltd.)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
Buy at Amazon MP3
Buy at appliedSB / Groupietunes
Buy at mTraks
More On This Album

A Rose Romance

Airdrie — Sat, 16 May 2009 17:03:57 +0000

Yesterday I had a chance to sample the new scent from MAC Cosmetics: A Rose Romance. Part of their limited edition spring line of the same name, A Rose Romance is intriguingly romantic. Notes: Bulgarian, Turkish and Tea Roses, orchid, lily, jasmine and peony, light and dark woods, patchouli and amber crystal (20 ml / .68 us fl oz CA$28.50.)

If you like the fresh scent of Tea Rose, you will love this scent! Go try it before you buy it. See how it lingers on your body. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, and that is why it is crucial that you wear a scent for a few hours before you buy it. “A Rose Romance” is a fresh morning scent, and would be a great addition to any scent wardrobe. It would also make a great gift for a teenage girl.

Botox: Before and After

Airdrie — Fri, 15 May 2009 20:43:33 +0000

Angry Face: before

Angry Face: after

It is one week after my Botox cosmetic treatment. I received 31 units of botox between my eye brows, and three on either side of my outer brow. As you can see, the furrows in my brow are slightly improved. I am making an “angry face” in both pictures… I look less angry in the “after” photo.

Was this worth $370? I’m not sure yet. I will go back in two weeks for a follow-up. I may need a few extra units to help further ease the tough muscles. Time will tell. I’ll keep you posted.

Episode #135 – Guest host Raul Pacheco (aka Hummingbird604.com), Airdrie got Botox, and loads of reviews.

Kerry Anne — Wed, 13 May 2009 01:59:25 +0000

Airdrie’s Reviews and Links:

LipFusion XL Advanced Lip Plumping Therapy duo – a great way to try two products in one.

Daisy Fuentes Style Pro Voluminous Curls & Waves Shampoo and Conditioner – Available in the USA at drugstores.

Flora by Gucci

Crazylibellule and the Poppies Shanghaijava Musc & Patchouli – Solid Perfume, exclusively at Sephora

Airdrie incorporated Botox into her mid-life crisis this week. Don’t tell anyone! Just kidding. Listen to the show for all the details about her experience with botox. Next show she’ll have an update, too. Botox takes a few weeks to have full effect…. Vancouver Anti-Aging Clinic

Kerry Anne reviews:

Sephora Professionnel Platinum Air Brush #55. I love it. It’s great for applying liquid foundation.

Sephora FACE 30 Waterproof Eye Makeup Removing Pads

Josie Maran Cosmetics Mascara

Our guest host, Raul Pacheco, Social Media Enthusiast and Chief Content Creator of hummingbird604.com, reviews 3 colognes and a concealer by Billie cosmetics.

Raul reviews:

La Nuit de L’Homme by Yves St. Laurent – find his excellent review here

Kenzo Power

Kenzo Tokyo

Book Recommendation: A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick
Blog of note: Monique Trottier “So Misguided”

Song of the Week

“Badman” by Homespun, from the Podsafe Music Network.

Episode #134 – Nude Skincare, Aveda Sun Care, MAC “A Rose Romance” and much more

Airdrie — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 05:15:45 +0000

Links to products we review this week:

1. MAC Cosmetics “A Rose Romance” collection. Pictured is one of our favourites from their new Summer line, See Thru Lip Colour, a sheer, lightweight gel lipstain.

2. Nude Skin Care

3. Ole Henriksen Micro Mini Peel System (about Ole)

4. Aveda Sun Care Line reviewed by Casual Lavish

5. La Mer Body Refiner

6. Biosculpture Gel Nails

7. Halle Berry scent by Coty Prestige – we preview this new scent and talk about the notes.

8. Products from Urban Decay – Kerry Anne especially likes the 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil, 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, and the Eyeshadow Primer Potion

Other Links:

Spa at the Madison – Day Spa in Burnaby, BC.
Movies: State of Play
I Love You, Man
Beauty Night

Song of the Week

Coltrane Motion
“They Can’t Mic The Deep End” (mp3)
from “Songs About Music”
(Datawaslost)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
Buy at Amazon MP3
Buy at appliedSB / Groupietunes
Buy at mTraks
More On This Album

AVEDA draw winners!

Airdrie — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:25:15 +0000

Congratulations to our Earth Day draw winners: Caroline (Vancouver, BC) and Sara (Lethbridge, AB).

Thanks to everyone for entering!

Our friend Henna over at the Canadian Beauty blog is hosting her very own AVEDA draw this week. She will be taking entries for the next week, so go on over there and enter her contest, too!

Thanks so much to our friends at AVEDA for providing us with such great prizes for Earth Day.

AVEDA Earth Day Draw: get your entries in by midnight Earth Day

Airdrie — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:32:28 +0000

Wednesday April 22 is Earth Day. To celebrate, we are running a draw for one of two AVEDA gift packs.

Each prize contains the following full-sized products:

Aveda Limited Edition Light the Way Earth Month Candle
Aveda Calming Body Cleanser 250 ml
Aveda Replenishing Body Moisturizer 250 ml
Aveda Tourmaline Charged Radiance Masque 125 ml
Aveda Pure Abundance™ Volumizing Shampoo 500 ml
Aveda Pure Abundance™ Volumizing Clay Conditioner 200 ml
Packaged in the new Aveda Tote Bag (made from 80% recycled cotton/20% recycled PET)

This contest is for CANADIAN RESIDENTS ONLY.

Enter before MIDNIGHT on Earth Day (Pacific Time)
Tell your friends!

Aveda turns 30! Celebrates with a special fundraiser for Earth Month

Airdrie — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:15:27 +0000

Aveda Light the Way™ 2009 Earth Month Candle

Keep your eyes open for the limited edition Aveda soy wax candle sold during the month of April in honor of Earth Month to raise funds and awareness for clean water rights across the globe. This year’s candle, timed for Aveda’s 30th anniversary, features a new, French-inspired stress-relieving aroma exclusively comprised of EcoCert certified organic ingredients, including lavender, lavandin and clary sage. The candle provides a meaningful way to support clean water rights for only $12.

100% of proceeds support Aveda’s Earth Month partner, Global Greengrants Fund, who provides grants for community-based water projects around the world
By purchasing a Light the Way™ candle, consumers will help Aveda donate a total of $1,000,000 for clean water projects around the globe
All aroma ingredients are EcoCert certified organic.
Burn time: up to 30 hours.

Sephora is coming to British Columbia!

Airdrie — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 04:35:45 +0000

Today I had the pleasure of meeting the vice-president of Sephora Canada, Marie-Christine Marchives. She and her team have flown-in from Montreal to set-up three Sephora stores in Metro Vancouver. We learned all about it at an intimate media-only event: a four course lunch in the Velvet Room at Elixir, located in the Opus Hotel in Yaletown.

I had a chance to make some great connections with other Vancouver beauty editors, and the loot bags were full of great products that will be available at Sephora! We will be reviewing them in the months to come.

It will be like Christmas in July when the first stores open in Pacific Centre and Coquitlam Centre simultaneously on July 10, 2009. The third location will open in October, 2009, at Metropolis at Metrotown Centre. Hello!

I’m just a little excited. Can you tell?

Episode #133 – Always Infinity, MAC eye shadow fav.’s, Clean and Clear, and much more!

Airdrie — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:09:02 +0000

This week we present our show from Kerry Anne’s living room.

Our reviews:

New Always Infinity Pads — hold up to 10X their weight, and that’s a good thing. Check them out online, and sign up to get a free sample!

Airdrie’s favourite eye shadow quad from MAC was sold under the name “Smoking Eyes 4″ and is now discontinued, but you can build your own collection using similar colours to match your skin tone. Smoking Eyes 4 contained these four colours, some of which are still available — ask your MAC salesperson:

Next To Nothing

Satin Taupe (Frost) – apply with MAC brush # 219 to eyelid **still available online

Smoking (Velvet) – dark black to add for a night time look

Showstopper (Matte) – apply with MAC brush # 266 (angled eyeliner)

Shadows in above list appear clockwise from top left corner in image here:

New** Clean and Clear Soothing Eye Make-up Remover, Make-up Dissolving Foaming Cleanser, and Make-up Dissolving Facial Cleansing Wipes. Airdrie will be taking the wipes on her trip to Virginia next month — they are great for traveling as you can pack them in your carry-on bag without a hassle from security.

The Body Shop Wild Cherry Line

Staying Alive Campaign, “Yes Yes Yes to Safe Sex” Berry Lip Butter from the Body Shop ($5 of each $8 purchase price goes to support the Staying Alive Campaign.

Links:

Our friend Raul – hummingbird604

Song of the Week

Bob Marley & The Wailers
“Soul Shakedown Party” (mp3)
from “Roots, Rock, Remixed”
(rockr / Quango / Tuff Gong)

Buy at Quango
Buy at Amazon.com
More On This Album

Pantene Beautiful Lengths

Airdrie — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:27:48 +0000

Press Release: Pantene Beautiful Lengths is thrilled to announce that it has reached its most impressive milestone since the program began nearly three years ago. This week marks the receipt of more than 1 million inches of hair donated to make free, real-hair wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment.

That’s a lot of hair! In fact, it’s enough to:

Stretch beyond the height of 66 Empire State Buildings!

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge nearly 10 times!

And most importantly…it’s enough to help thousands of women get back something that cancer has taken from them and help them fight this devastating illness.

Pantene would like to thank the survivors, communities, families, schools and you for supporting this wonderful cause.

Episode #132 – Simply Ageless Foundation, L’Oreal Pore Minimizing Skin Re-Smoother, Tarte, Benefit and Barry M (UK).

Kerry Anne — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:04:39 +0000

Airdrie’s Reviews

Simply Ageless Foundation by CoverGirl and Olay – creamy, wonderful, I love this product.

L’Oreal Skin Genesis Pore Minimizing Skin Re-Smoother – save your money: clinical smell, bad under make-up, and I think it’s time to make peace with my pores. I’m OK, my pores are OK!

Kerry Anne’s Reviews

Benefit Smokin’ Eyes Sexy Eye & Brow Makeover Kit

Tarte Rest Assured Brightening Wand

Tarte Rejuvelash Natural Declumping Lash Exhilarator
Tarte Bottoms Up Lower Lash Mascara

Barry M Cosmetics Nail Paints (UK only)

Links

Yes to Cucumbers
Brazilian cosmetic companies O Boticario and Natura

Song of the Week
“Weighty Ghost” by Wintersleep, courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network

Avril Lavigne launches her first scent!

Airdrie — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 17:04:37 +0000

Press release: Avril Lavigne launched her first name brand scent “Black Star” last week in London, UK.
The event was held at PUNK in Oxford Circus, London, where Avril gave a preview of her first signature scent.
The scent is set to launch in the US in Fall 2009 and includes these notes: Pink Hibiscus, delicious Black Plum and rich Dark Chocolate. We will hopefully review some samples on Lip Gloss and Laptops in the months to come. But for now, here is an image of the lovely Avril with her new scent… enjoy.
Tue 17th March 2009.© Eamonn McCormack

Episode #131 – Venus by Gillette, Yes to Carrots, MAC Unisex products and Viva Glam VI Special Edition, plus your letters!

Airdrie — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 20:40:16 +0000

This week we review:

The Venus by Gillette Spring 2009 Product Line -

Venus® Embrace™ is a 5-blade shaving system with a
Protective Ribbon of Moisture that shaves women’s legs
closer than ever leaving them smoother than ever. Now
available in vibrant purple and turquoise!
Venus® Spa Breeze™ System and Spa Breeze Disposables,
the newest versions of the 2-in-1 razor with built-in shave
gel bars and a soothing white-tea scent, make shaving
easy and indulgent – reminiscent of a premium spa expe-
rience.
Venus® Breeze™ the original 2-in-1 razor with built-in
shave gel bars, makes shaving easy by eliminating the
need for separate shave cream.
Venus® Vibrance™ uses Soothing Vibrations to gently
exfoliate and instantly reveal more radiant skin.
Venus® Divine™ incorporates Intensive Moisture Strips
for divinely smooth skin.
Venus® Disposables Tropical™ razors offer the perfor-
mance of Venus in three tropical-inspired bright colors
with a fresh scented handle.
Venus® is the original 3-blade razor that offers a close
shave and smooth skin in just one stroke.

Yes to Carrots: Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Lotion. Airdrie LOVES these paraben-free products, made in Isreal. All are priced under $10, and give salon quality results. Look for them at Shopper’s Drugmart in Canada, and other retailers world-wide.

Deserving Thyme Green Tea Shampoo and Conditioner.

Prescriptives Super Line Preventor Xtreme Lifting Concentrate A high-priced product that feels great going on, but we are not sure it’s going to fight genetics when it comes to preventing fine-lines.

MAC Unisex Products (for men or women!)

Moisture Lush Eye Cream – smoke-and-mirrors are created by the illuminators in this eye cream ($36.50 CDN)
Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15 – a great cream that can be worn alone or under make-up. ($38.00CDN)
Lip Conditioner SPF15 ($16CDN)
Moisture Lush Cream – deeply hydrating for very dry skin; used in moderation, this cream provides a nice base for make-up. ($38.50CDN)

MAC Viva Glam VI line – Airdrie loves the Viva Glam VI “Special Edition” lipstick, which is a blue-pink colour; gorgeous!

Reality Check: In Style Belly Luxe maternity clothes for the fashionable mom-to-be.

Song of the Week

Willie Nelson, Asleep at the Wheel
“Hesitation Blues” (mp3)
from “Willie and the Wheel”
(BISMEAUX RECORDS)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Bobbi Brown Makeup Maunual

Airdrie — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:58:46 +0000

Bobbie Brown guests on the Barnes and Noble vlog “Tagged.”

Episode #130 – Budget happy cosmetics, unisex scents, and much more.

Airdrie — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 04:17:37 +0000

Congratulations to the winners of our Kiss Nail draw: Diane and Amber. Thanks to Kiss USA for providing us with so many great samples over the years. Artificial nails are an easy way to get a great French Manicure without damaging your nails. Gel and Acrylic nails last longer, but they do damage the nail underneath. Salon nails are also expensive, and we all need to keep an eye on our budget during this economic downturn. For a special event, or just a pick-me-up, try glue-on nails. I strongly recommend purchasing a nail remover tub like Kiss “All or One” — it makes the removal process much easier.

This week we review the Milani Cosmetic line. Milani is available in the USA at Target, CVS, Walgreens, and Winn Dixie. International orders, including Canada, are available at Drugstore.com. Milani has quality products, great pigments, and a huge selection for all skin colours. The prices are all very low. We highly recommend this line, and review a number of their products in this episode. If you are reading this, and do not realize we are a podcast, look above to the link where you can listen to our bi-monthly one hour show. We are also available for free download in iTunes.

We also review a beauty classic this week: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. There are so many different products available today, and Airdrie discovered the pure joy of this simple and classic face lotion on a recent holiday. The price is just slightly above drugstore prices, and the quality is very high. This product is also unisex, and is available in an oil-free gel formulation also.(CDN $31 125ml)

We give a full review to two classic unisex scents by Calvin Klein: CK One and CK be. Both have been released in a special edition bottle and MP3 Player Speaker Case that would come in handy for a trip to the beach with friends. Speaker edition sests available ~~where CK scents are sold~~ in Canada only at Shopper’s Drugmart. The fragrances alone are available world-wide.

Press Release: This week marks a very exciting launch for Boots, UK’s #1 beauty retailer, available in the US at Target stores nationwide and Target.com!

Boots Original Beauty Formula is a range of indulgent and luxurious skincare, based on traditional formulas resurrected from Boots archives dated back to 1800s. Boots has been developing affordable skincare and toiletries while using pure ingredients – these classic formulations have been rediscovered and brought up to date to give effective results within the modern world of beauty. Each product is infused with essential oils such as rose, geranium and lavender which have been traditionally used in the apothecary. The traditionally crafted packaging and elegant glass bottles capture the tradition and heritage of the brand. Better yet – the packaging is recyclable!
Products like Cold Cream, Lip Salve, Vanishing Day Cream, Skin Balm, Skin Tonic, Bath Foam and Cuticle Oil embrace the authenticity of this collection.

Links:

Aquafina Lipcare
Weird product: NSFW BlowGuard
Vancouver Fashion Blogger Victoria Potter (demicouture.ca)

Music:

“Please Stop Leaving” by Mike Errico, via the Podsafe Music Network

Episode #129 – Benefit, Tarte, Clinique and a Green Reality Check!

Airdrie — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 06:55:53 +0000

This week we have a long show for you! Sit back and enjoy.

We announce our new draw for a set of nails from Kiss (fingers and toes!)

Reviews:

1. Classic products from Benefit, as well as some products from their new Spring09 collection:

ooh la lift
lip plump
coralista powder blusher
full-finish lipstick
creaseless cream shadow/liner
badGal Waterproof liner

2. Tarte “A Perfect Whirled” Cheek Stain — LOVE IT!

3. Clinique Redness Solutions Instant Relief Mineral Powder — SAVE YOUR MONEY INSTEAD…

Photo by Kris Krug, taken at NYFW 2009, Barbie 50th Anniversary Show:

Song of the Week: Ikea by Jonathan Coulton (courtesy Podsafe Music Network)

Adele

Airdrie — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:40:18 +0000

I am absolutely falling in love with Adele.

She got some great exposure this week, winning two Grammy Awards: Best New Artist, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Her voice is beautiful; her style is edgy yet classy. I love her cover of Bob Dylan’s “To Make You Feel My Love.”

Here is Youtube-famous make-up instructor Panacea81 to help you achieve the Adele “Chasing Pavements” make-up look –

MAC Hello Kitty!

Airdrie — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:28:39 +0000

Today is the first day of the Hello Kitty Line from MAC Cosmetics. The line has three parts: Hello Kitty Mild, Hello Kitty Wild, and Accessories. My favourites are the Tote Bag and brush sets.

Check it out!

Episode #128 Panty-By-Post, ~H20+ Bali Breeze, MAC Creme Team and Well-Defined Lines plus more!

Airdrie — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 05:41:30 +0000

We have a great show for you. If you have not subscribed to us in iTunes yet, be sure to click the iTunes button to your right. Listen to us on your mp3 player.

Reviews this week:

Panty By Post – Buy a pair of beautiful ladies panties for you or a friend online; have them delivered by mail! Send the link to your significant other, too — these sexy panties make a great Valentines Day gift.

~H2O+ Bali Breeze body care line: Rejuvenating Shower Cream, Renewing Sugar Scrub, Soothing Body Butter, and Luminous Moisture Gloss (a dry oil spray!) We especially love the sugar scrub!

We review two lines from MAC:
Creme Team
Well-Defined

Kerry Anne reviews two Neutrogena products:
Healthy Skin Anti-wrinkle Creme with Retinol
Oil Free Makeup Remover

Airdrie reviews two craptacular products so bad we don’t even want to link up to them. Listen to the show find out what they are.

Links:

Forty Flirty and Fabulous Beauty Blog
Start your own blog: we love Wordpress.com
Plastic Surgeon uses liposuction fat waste as fuel for his car.
More Magazine: Celebrating Women 40+ Canada (US)

Song of the week: “The Weather Machine” by Signal to Noise, via the Podsafe Music Network.

Episode #127 – Clinique Instant Facial, Aveda Enbrightenment, Maybelline Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara

Airdrie — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 06:42:07 +0000

This week Airdrie reviews:

1. Clinique’s new Turnaround Instant Facial

This high-performance facial delivers all the radiance and smoothness of microdermabrasion-with significantly less irritation and stress to skin. Promotes surface cell turnover on multiple levels to instantly unveil skin that’s fresher, more vibrant. Oil free. Use 2-3 times a week for an instant brightness boost.

2. Two products from NUXE

3. We both have recently tried Aveda’s new Enbrightenment Face Care line (available February 14, 2009).
Listen to the show for a full review of this multi-step face-care line from Aveda.

Kerry Anne reviews:

Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara

This mascara is very good for a drugstore product. No clumps, and while I’m not sure my lashes are, in fact, 9x as voluminized, as Maybelline claims, they do look pretty great, without a hint of Tammy Faye tackiness.

Sweet Anthem Handmade Perfumes

One of our listeners, Valerie, turned us onto to this Seattle company, which makes handmade, alcohol-free perfumes. According to the website:

Unlike mass-produced, commercial perfumes, Sweet Anthem creates perfume oils using 80-85% concentration rates and dilutes most of the perfumes in jojoba, evening primrose, or pomegranate oil. This formulation creates a silky texture, a long-lasting fragrance, and a skin-safe perfume experience.

All of the perfume blends are named after women the company’s founder, Meredith, admires. KA is partial to Vicky, a blend of Almond, Cinnamon and Sweet Orange, and Anita, a blend of Coffee, Moroccan Mint, Peppermint, Pink sugar, Turkish mocha, and Vanilla.

Links

Listener Theresa sends in a great review for Avon’s Moisture Therapy Intensive Body Lotion
Airdrie recommends The Wrestler
Kerry Anne recommends Gran Torino
Reality Check - A cosmetic lift for your funeral? Get a hold of yourself, people!

Music: a wonderful version of Caro Mio Ben (composed by Giuseppe Giordani) by our friend Simon James.

New MAC Widget – check it!

Airdrie — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:33:46 +0000

I look like Dame Edna, but this is not for the Dame Edna collection. It is for the new Brunette Blonde Redhead Collection. And I think Hello Kitty is coming soon FTW!

Episode #126 Happy New Year! We have a huge show for you to welcome-in 2009!

Kerry Anne — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 05:59:17 +0000

Happy New Year! We are now in our fourth year of the Lip Gloss and Laptops Podcast and we have loads of new products to review in this week’s show!

CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain

Dame Edna has her very own line at MAC Cosmetics

MAC Cosmetics Chill Collection features a very cool new addition to their permanent collection, the Penultimate Eyeliner

GOSH Cosmetics

GOSH is available worldwide, and we’re both impressed with the creaminess and staying power of their kohl eyeliners.

Kerry Anne Reviews:

KMS AddVolume Shampoo

Innersense Organic Beauty Smooth Embrace Body Lotion

Airdrie Reviews:

MAC Mineralize Satin Finish Foundation
Aromatherapy Neroli Water by Kerstin Florian
Click Heat Neck & Shoulder Warmer
Oral B Triumph Toothbrush with Smart Guide

Links

Tiki Bar TV
Holy Mo! (email if you want tix, I have two!)
Slumdog Millionaire
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Marley & Me
Burger King Flame Body Spray
Willow Stream Spa The Empress Hotel, Victoria, BC, Canada

Song of the Week

“Hard Case” by Newfoundland’s rather famous Great Big Sea, courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network

Snow Day!

Airdrie — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 23:17:42 +0000

Happy Holidays! We were going to record a show today, but it snowed about 30 cm last night, and we decided to both stay at home and nest.

Christmas is fast approaching, and I want to share with you some ideas for creative and last-minute gift ideas.

1. ModelCo Disco Lights. It’s like a party in your purse! This fun lip gloss has a multi-coloured LED light in the handle. I gave this to my kids’ piano teacher for Christmas this year. Fun!

2. A great last-minute gift for a friend or brother/sister is an electric toothbursh. OralB has a few to offer at different price-points.

3. Murad has a Holiday Collection. I will be giving a special friend the Gogi-Berry Body Set – yum!

It’s a little late to be ordering products online. If you don’t want to go to the crazy-busy mall, I suggest shopping at your local drugstore or hair salon. Most carry products for everyone on your list.

Merry Christmas!

Lip Gloss wins best podcast in Vancouver!

Derek — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 18:50:38 +0000

Last night at a ceremony the Cellar nightclub downtown, Lip Gloss and Laptops won in the favourite audio/video podcast category at Vancouver’s Best of 604 awards, which were voted for by readers and listeners over the past few weeks.

The show was up against some pretty hefty competition, including the internationally known Tiki Bar TV, but the LGL win was something a landslide, with 35% of the vote in the category.

Second place went to our friend Dave Olson. Tiki Bar came a surprising third. Unfortunately, Kerry Anne couldn’t make it to the event, but Airdrie was there to accept the prize pack from awards organizer and mistress of ceremonies Rebecca “Miss 604” Bollwitt. So thanks to all our listeners and fans—quite a cheer went up in the crowd of a couple of hundred people when our win was announced!

Episode #125 – Holiday Best Buys and More!

Airdrie — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 05:05:47 +0000

Holiday Best Buys:

1. Tarte “The Vanity” is a limited edition palette that contains $495 worth of products, all for only $52.

This set features:
- 16 brand-new eyeshadows
- 16 brand-new lipglosses
- Deluxe Lights, Camera, Lashes! mascara
- Deluxe Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess
- Deluxe luminizer
- Four powder blushes
- Deluxe eyeshadow
- Eyelining brushes

Available only at Sephora Stores and Sephora.com.

2. smashbox “On In 5 Beauty Kit” I got my kit at Shoppers Drug Mart beautyBoutique for $52 CDN. It is a $141 US value, and contains the following fabulous full-size smashbox products:

- Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15
- Bionic Mascara in “Jet black”
- Cream Eye Liner Pencil in “Midnight Brown”
- Lip Enhancing Gloss in “Illume”
- Photo Op Under Eye Brightener
- Fusion Eye and Cheek in “On in 5″

3. MAC Fascinating Ruby: 6 Smokey Eyes ($44.50 CDN) This Holiday-collection palette could serve as any woman’s only eye-shadow compact all-year round. The colours include black, silver, two browns and a taupe base. Perfect for contouring and playing with the smokey-eye look.

Consider investing in superfine MAC Brush #210 to help apply black powder to the lash-line, creating a professional result.

Gorgeous Gifts Under $35

1. Bathina Body So Fine – velvet body balm by Benefit(~$30).

This flirtatiously scented body balm is pure body seduction. Slip some on to arms, legs, decollete, anywhere you want luminescent luxury. The silky velvet finish is slightly naughty and totally irresistible…its all you will want to wear!

2. Balmshell Lip Gloss ($20) Available at Shoppers Drugmart beautyBoutique and Sephora, this $20 lipgloss converts into a fashionable key-chain when the gloss is gone. It comes in ten great colours, my favourite is the ultra-sexy “Shopaholic”, a neutral ballet pink.

This fashion-forward Canadian company even has a blog for their products: Balm Squad!

Show Links:

Vaj-j Visor — we got to try these on for size
Mad Men

Mr. Clean with Febreze wipes
Murale

Song: “Don’t” by the Adam Woodall Band (also check them out at Facebook)

Save 25% at H2O+

Airdrie — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 02:09:20 +0000

We are thrilled to share with you details of H20 Plus’ “Friends and Family Sale”.
Starting December 11, everyone will receive 25% off their purchases online
and in stores (Canada and USA). Click this link for in store coupon and/or online promo-code.

h20plusfriendsfamily_holidaypostcard2

What a great time to stock-up Sea Salt Scrub!

Enjoy!

Vote for Us: Best Audio/Video Blog or Podcast in Vancouver

Airdrie — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:51:27 +0000

Lip Gloss and Laptops has been nominated for a “Best of 604: Metro Vancouver Web Awards” in the category “Best Audio/Video Blog or Podcast.”

Click HERE, scroll down, and vote for us!

While you are there, vote for Airdrie in the category of Best Blog.

Voting ends Dec. 11, 2008.

Thanks for your support!

The “Best of 604″ awards event is a fundraiser for the Vancouver Food Bank. Thanks Miss604, Rebecca Bollwitt, for organizing such a meaningful and fun event.

No Show This Week!

Airdrie — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:15:26 +0000

Sorry people! We are busy getting ready for the holidays, taking exams, and writing report cards.

We will be back soon with lots of last-minute shopping ideas!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Episode #124 – Guest host Raul Pacheco, ChapStick True Shimmer, and lots of face-care products reviewed.

Airdrie — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 03:52:13 +0000

This week we have a guest-host, Raul Pacheco (a.k.a. Hummingbird604). Raul is a local Vancouver blogger, and a friend of ours. He will help listeners figure out what type of cologne they might want to buy for the man in their lives this holiday season.

Please note that our latest draw ends Friday November 21, so get your entry in to win one of two bottles of Calvin Klein Secret Obsession.

____________________________________________________________________
Reviews:

ChapStick True Shimmer : This season’s newest addition to ChapStick lip balm, ChapStick True Shimmer™ offers the moisturizing benefits of a lip balm with the added bonus of a subtle, radiant shine, providing just the right accent for your lips on any occasion.
An everyday essential, ChapStick True Shimmer contains moisturizing ingredients and shimmering highlights for beautiful, healthy-looking lips that are sure to get noticed.
Just glide it on and let ChapStick True Shimmer smooth and moisturize lips before applying your favorite lipstick or wear it solo for a natural, attractive daytime look. Available in Botanical Berry and Tropical flavours. ($2.79 US)

Prestige LightShine Sheer Gloss Liner for lips. This unique liner provides a subtle line that mixes well with sheer lip glosses. Can be worn alone, or mix it up with any lip gloss or lipstick. Available at London Drugs, or wherever Prestige Cosmetics are sold. We love these (~$7 CDN)!

NeoStrata Skin Brightener: Kerry Anne gives a full review of this product from NeoStrata.

Because aging is more than wrinkle deep, NeoStrata launches Skin Brightener with 20% Vitamin C.
Clinical study results up to 88% improvement in the uniformity of the skin.
What will it do for you:
• Even out skin tone
• Inhibit and target discolorations
• Restore youthful glow
• Reveal flawless complexion

(Available at Shopper’s Drugmart, or wherever NeoStrata is sold.)

Lush Brazened Honey Fresh Face Mask: This amazing face mask is made from fresh ingredients and therefore is only available in stores, not online. Ingredients include: ginger root, parsley, rosemary, fennel, lime, and free-range eggs. Seven Ayurvedic herbs are used for their inherent cleansing properties, kaolin soaks up excess oil and chlorophyll helps heal irritated and red skin. (Bella Sugar has a great review!)

Pure Radiant Energy (”PRE”) This local Vancouver company has some exceptional products at very affordable prices. We review Revitalize Skin Therapy Cream and the Hydra Therapy Masque. Sadly, these products are not available online yet, so you have to come to the Vancouver shop to get them! (Read the Company’s Story here.)

Links:
Vancouver Bloggers Meetup
The 21st Floor — the Play Raul mentions in the show (read his review.)

Song of the Week:
+/- {Plus/Minus}
“Snowblind” (mp3)
from “Xs On Your Eyes”
(Absolutely Kosher)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
Buy at GroupieTunes
More On This Album

Episode #123 – MAC, ANSR for Acne, Tarte Primer, Drugstore Buys, Our Next DRAW

Kerry Anne — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 04:50:10 +0000

Enter our draw for one of two bottles of Secret Obsession from Calvin Klein. We absolutely love this deep dark fragrance for fall and winter months.

Kerry Anne Reviews:

Tarte Clean Slate Primer

ANSR Acne Treatment

‘Tis almost the season…so here comes MAC’s Holiday Collections

Airdrie Reviews:

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Gift Set is a great gift for you or someone else. Priced at $30CDN, this gift is a great deal.
It contains:
-Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant 50ml
Referred to as “The Miracle Cream” for its healing and protecting benefits since its launch, Elizabeth Arden’s best selling product helps protect, soothe and moisturise skin.
-Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick SPF15 3.7g
-Eight Hour Intensive Treatment Moisturising Hand Treatment 30ml
(Available wherever Elizabeth Arden is sold.)

L’Oreal Colour Riche lipstick Star Secrets — Penelope Red

Maybelline New York Mineral Power™ Natural Perfecting Powder Foundation

Links

Dry: A Memoir and Running With Scissors: A Memoir by Augusten Burroughs
Rachel Getting Married
Va J-J Visor
P-Mate USA
Strange New Products Blog

Song

“The Presidents” by Jonathan Coulton, from the Podsafe Music Network.

Episode #122 New products from MAC, beauty news, and an online shopping round-up.

Kerry Anne — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:14:05 +0000

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — There are lots of products available to support this cause in various ways. One great product for Canadian gals is the Lise Watier’s Pink Tribute Lip Palette (Proceeds going to the Canadian Cancer Society):

(Price: $29 CAD)

New MAC Collections Available Now:

Cremesheen
Emanuel Ungaro
Sheer Minerals
Suite Array Eyeshadow Duos and Eyeliners

MAC AIDS Fund — We love to support and promote MAC cosmetics, not only because they are fun and unique, but because they do so much to support people with AIDS, and help reduce the stigma of HIV/AIDS.

Links:
Banana Diet
Blue Lagoon Spa — Iceland
Lou Lou Magazine
Marie Claire Magazine
Fashion Magazine
Pinky’s Steakhouse and Cocktail Lounge (Vancouver, 2 Locations)
Queen Spa Shenzhen China
Operation Fabulous
Geisha Facial at Shizuka New York Day Spa

Reality Check

ShopSmart, from the publisher of Consumer Reports, checked out more than two dozen beauty sites to find the best ones, screening out sites with bad Better Business Bureau records, no contact information, poor return policies, or high shipping fees and ones where items were bundled (Amazon’s best cosmetic deals were in multipacks). They’ll appear in the November 2008 issue of the magazine. Here are some of the results:

Best Overall Selection: Beauty.com
Shipping Free if you spend $49 or more.
Return policy 30 days on unopened products or, for certain items, if you don’t like the color. Returns cost $4.99 unless a product is damaged or incorrect or the color is wrong.

Great for Hard-to-Find Products: Beautyhabit.com
Shipping Free on orders of $100 or more; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy 14 days on most items. No returns on opened or used products.

Best Prices: Buymebeauty.com
Shipping Free on orders of $35 or more; $4.95 on orders of less than $35.
Return policy 30 days. Products must be unused and unopened, unless they are defective. You have to call or e-mail before returning products; you will also have to pay the costs of return shipping.

Great Drugstore Makeup Section: Drugstore.com
Shipping Free on your first nonprescription order of $25 or more; free on orders of $49 or more after that.
Return policy 30 days. Returns are free if a product is damaged, defective, or incorrect. Returns are free on certain products if you don’t like the color. Otherwise, products must be unopened and unused.

Great for Freebies: Sephora.com
Shipping Free on orders over $50; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy 60 days. Free return shipping. Store credit after 60 days.

Great for Organic Products: Skinbotanica.com
Shipping Free on orders over $49; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy 60 days.

Best Online Version of a Walk-In Store: Walgreens.com
Shipping Many items qualify for free shipping of purchases of $50 or more; otherwise $5.49 for 10 pounds or less.
Return policy 30 days.

Sad Site: BeautyDepot.com
This site didn’t have a wide selection of products. You have to buy $99 worth of stuff to get free shipping; otherwise you could end up paying $7.95 or more for UPS ground. Cosmetics (and many other products) were not returnable, and there’s no toll-free customer-service number.

Pick up their November issue for more info.

Kat Fader
“Come With Me” (mp3)
from “Halloween Bloody Night”
(Tobacco Music)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
More On This Album

Episode #121 Special Edition: Ecofriendly Cosmetics

Kerry Anne — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 04:19:51 +0000

Kerry Anne’s Reviews:

Kerry Anne and Airdrie give a full review of the Care by Stella McCartney line. For more information on Care, check out our earlier post. Care is available at sephora.com.

Cargo Plant Love

Cargo Cosmetics, came out with the very successful botanical-formula PlantLove lipstick, have now released an entire line of eco-cosmetics.

The PlantLove™ Natural Origin Cosmetics Collection is indeed, 100% natural, and includes:

For the face: 100% Natural Origin Loose Powder Foundation, Pressed Powder, Baked Illuminator, Bronzer and Blush.

For lips: 100% Natural Origin Lipstick, Lip Gloss, Lip Balm and Lipliner. The PlantLove lipstick is available in 20 sheer shades, 11 of which have been designed by celebrities, and 9 that have been inspired by places of ecological beauty. I like Muir Woods, a “sheer spiced mauve”.

For eyes: 100% Natural Origin Eye Shadow and Eye Liner. I’ve tested the Midnight Blue Eye Liner, which is really more midnight than blue. It’s a soft pencil that goes on with no tugging, and stays put.

PlantLove™ has been given the highest eco-distinction of ECOCERT™, a global designation ensuring that all product, process and packaging meet the strictest standards for natural, organic and environmentally friendly content.

PureOlogy PureVolume ThickeningMist

This stuff is amazing for my fine hair. I’ve tried lots of different thickening products, but they always make my hair crunchy, or stiff or dull. This gives my hair great volume from the root, doesn’t weigh my hair down halfway through the day. Best of all, it adds shine and texture to my hair. I love it. Smells nice too, without taking over. It’s also vegan, never tested on animals, contains some organic ingredients, and offers UVA/UVB protection.

Airdrie Reviews:

L’Occitane 5 Essential Oils Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner

Experience Aromachologie’s Authenticity & Effectiveness. Discover it’s natural origin foaming bases. Rest easy with its tested and proven benefits. Free from synthetic colorants & parabens and limited use of silicones.

Aromachologie products make washing hair pleasurable and relaxing.
Hair

This product makes my hair smell AMAZING! I love it!!

__________________________________________________________________

Concerned about the amount of packaging in the cosmetic industry?
You are not alone.
Recently, Linda Wells, Editor in Chief of Allure magazine, criticized the
beauty industry’s excessive product packaging in her October editor’s
letter. In her letter, she calls for beauty companies to reduce their
packaging in an effort to become more ‘green’ and environmentally friendly.
Linda’s editor letters are different from other major magazines because she
takes the time to write them herself and she chooses important social topics
that will reach a wide audience. Here is a copy of October letter:

More Is Less

Every spring, I turn over my bathroom and my pores to Allure’s Best of Beauty testing.
I expect no pity: I get to try $200 firming creams, scrubs of every flavor on each limb,
and more perfumes than you’d find in an entire Moroccan souk. It’s work; it’s fun. Even the tedium of washing my face (a.k.a. cleansing) becomes an adventure. This year, though, as I opened box after box of anti-aging creams, I became uneasy. Off came the cellophane wrapping, the outer sleeve, and the thick, embossed top. Into the garbage went the cardboard base, the flocked pedestal, the golden spatula, and the little plastic lid that covers the cream like a skin. (If I throw that away, I wonder, will it immediately become contaminated?) By the time I’d unwrapped three products, my wastebasket was filled. All that cardboard and plastic, all that vulgar excess—it made me feel guilty.
The packaging of expensive beauty products has gotten out of control. Some cosmetics companies
seem to believe that all these layers create a sense of luxury, that they make the product look precious,
like a Valentine’s present from Harry Winston. But that idea is passé. Diana Vreeland, the fashion editor, once said, “Elegance is refusal.” Mies Van der Rohe applied the words “less is more” to architecture. As much as everyone rattles off these mottoes, it seems that few of us really live by them. Magazines are clogged with articles about stylish women who catalog their shoes in vast mirrored closets and buy a new dress for every party. Whatever happened to the ideal of the French woman who wore the same Yves Saint Laurent jacket for 20 years? Recycled materials and understated packaging occupy an important place in the market. But the prevailing trend still seems to be the cosmetic equivalent of a pimped-out Hummer. The beauty industry has to move away from the Kimora Lee Simmons approach to luxury. “All that shiny cellophane and metal is not sophisticated,” says Frank Mueller, creative director of Wolff Olins, which specializes in corporate branding. “Luxury can be the absence of this and a focus instead on the ingredients. That’s a more primal idea of luxury.” Imagine what Mies would have done with one of those $200 moisturizers. I doubt it would have involved flocked plastic. My recent experience testing products has given me a new appreciation for the laboratory sample. Cosmetics companies often send these to beauty editors before the final packaging is completed. The fragrances and creams come in tiny bottles with plain typed labels. They’re beautiful objects, simple and pared down to their essence. To my mind, they’re pure luxury.
Linda Wells, Editor in Chief

Links

Dusk Candles
Sarah Palin Lipstick at Pitbull Mom
America’s Next Top Model video game
Palin Wig
Does Palin have a tattoo lip liner?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate FREE Toothpaste helps prevent Canker Sores, so says one listener:
Biotene
Dentist.net

Song of the Week

Buena Vista Social Club
“De Camino a la Vereda” (mp3)
from “Buena Vista Social Club At Carnegie Hall”
(World Circuit)

More On This Album

Care by Stella McCartney

Kerry Anne — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 02:47:38 +0000

I swooned when the people at Matchstick offered to send us the entire Care by Stella McCartney line, to which we replied a resounding, “yes!”. I’m a huge fan of Stella, and was very excited to try this line. I’ve only been using this for a week, but here are my impressions so far.

The first thing I noticed about the products is the amazing smell. All of the scents in her products are derived from 100% natural and organic essential oils, and were blended by an essential oil perfumer. The fragrance of the products remind me a bit of the Aveda products, in that they have a plantlike, herbal smell, without being too flowery. They tone down nicely, too, so they’re not up your nostrils all day. The scent of the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Fluid is absolutely dee-lish.

I’ve been on a routine using the Purifying Foaming Cleanser, the Toning Floral Water, and the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Fluid. I’ve also been using either the Calming & Soothing Elixir, or the Radiance & Youth Elixir. I have oily skin, with a tendency to break out. So far, so good. Airdrie will be testing some of the more moisturizing products.

Almost all the bottles in the Care line are an easy-peasy airtight, pump dispenser, with the exception of the Nourishing Elixir, which is a light moisturizing oil that comes in a dropper.

Every product in the Care skin care line is 100% natural, and contain between 50-100% organic ingredients. There are no chemical preservatives, and they are certified by ECOCERT.

She also has a Care by Stella McCartney recycle program, where you can ship all your old bottles back to the company. The products are packaged and presented beautifully, but I have to say I was surprised to see how much packaging was used. Each bottle comes in a plastic wrapped tube, containing a paper insert containing product information. Stella is committed to the environment, and has many messages on her website reiterating this, so I’m assuming that all the packaging that went into the product has been produced through sustainable methods.

With products retailing from $35-$80, Care by Stella McCartney is available at a rather high price point, certainly out of my range. I’d say it’s being marketed as an eco-luxury line, and the price certainly reflects the name behind the product and the effort that has gone into natural/organic formulation. Keep in mind that there are plenty of organic products out there for less, and that it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to invest in products that are earth and body friendly.

We’ll keep you posted via the blog and podcast about how the products are working for us.

The full product line consists of:

Nourishing Elixir – $64
5 Benefits Moisturising Cream – $76
5 Benefits Moisturising Fluid – $76
Gentle Cleansing Milk - $35
Toning Floral Water – $35
Calming+Soothing Elixir – $64
Radiance+Youth Elixir – $64
Nourishing Night & Day Cream – $80

The full line is available at sephora.com.

Episode #120 – Redken, Pantene Beautiful Lengths Collection, Volumelash, Lise Watier and Clinique Bonus Time

Kerry Anne — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:28:17 +0000

[Download the show]

Airdrie’s Reviews

Lise Watier Les Cachemires fall collection.

It’s a soft and candid collection, inspired by the tranquil beauty of the autumn season. Soft blues, greyed taupes, and warm plums: a palette of cocooning shades and subtle nuances as easy to mix and match as they are to wear!

Pantene Beautiful Lengths Collection

Shampoo, Conditioner and 2-IN-1 formulation available.
Listen to the podcast for a full review and tips for growing-out your hair from the professionals.

Airdrie always gets excited at Clinique Bonus Time. This month she reviews: Quickliner for Eyes (Roast Coffee) & Brow Keeper (03 Honey). Love these products!

Kerry Anne’s Reviews

Redken Extreme Iron Repair

Annabelle Volumelash Mascara

Links
Costco
Borghese

News
The New Face of CoverGirl: Ellen DeGeneres

Beauty giant CoverGirl cosmetics confirms that the Brand is partnering with Ellen DeGeneres as its newest face. This will be the first beauty campaign for the comedienne and Emmy award winning talk show host whose famous face will be the focus of new advertisements in January 2009.

“Ellen is the quintessential CoverGirl. She is smart, confident, natural, and beautiful from the inside out. Her beauty and down-to-earth personality fit perfectly with what CoverGirl represents. We look forward to our partnership – stay tuned for more news,” said Esi Eggleston Bracey, vice president and general manager, Global Cosmetics, Procter & Gamble Beauty.

Visit www.covergirl.ca or www.covergirl.com for more information.

Nina Garcia’s The One Hundred and The Little Black Book of Style
Blo
40 Words for Every Situation

Reality Check

A-Listers and the IV Diet Craze?

Juliana Hatfield, Richard Butler
“This Lonely Love (feat. Richard Butler)” (mp3)
from “How to Walk Away”
(Ye Olde Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Buy at mTraks
More On This Album

We have a winner!

Airdrie — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 18:23:21 +0000

Check out our Listener Page to see a picture of Heidi with her new toothbrush.

Don’t forget to enter our current draw for a set of travel cosmetic brushes.

We will be back next week with a new show .

Our Fall Draw: Travel Mini Cosmetic Brush Set!

Airdrie — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:11:34 +0000

Please enter our fall draw for a travel mini cosmetic brush set from A Design Brushes.

This brush set has a value of $45US. Check-out this product online here.

Contest closes Oct. 1, 2008. One entry per email address. Good Luck!!

Mental Health Notes

Airdrie — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:49:26 +0000

This week I am guest-blogging a four part series about my experiences with depression. Alicia Sparks writes the Mental Health Notes blog over at B5Media, and was kind enough to let me share my experiences with her readers. (Read Part One and Part two) Part 3 and Part 4 will be published later this week.

Why write about my mental illness? The main reason is to combat the powerful personal-stigma I put upon myself for having depression. I spent years hiding my problems. I tried all the obvious remedies like “just suck it up!”, and “just get out more!” But things got worse. Now I have to face things head-on, and in the open. My life has bloomed since I came out of my anxiety/depression closet.

Another reason I like to write about it is so that I can connect with like-minded people. Everyone needs a network of friends, family and professionals to keep them healthy throughout life.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoy my series.

Episode #119 – Boob Tube, Nutritioniste, Perfumes

Airdrie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:03:15 +0000

Airdrie’s Reviews:

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-puff Eye Roller
H20+ spa Sea Marine Shower Scent (also available in other scents!!)
Mama Mio Boob Tube
Alberto European Shampoo and Conditioner

Kerry Anne’s Reviews:

Calvin Klein Secret Obsession

The fragrance has top notes of exotic plum, mace and rose de damas; a heart of Egyptian jasmine, French orange flower and tuberose, and base notes of cashmere woods, burnt amber, Madagascan vanilla and Australian sandalwood – deeelish!
The Secret Obsession campaign has been a bit controversial. You can leave a question for Eva Mendes at the Secret Obsession Facebook page. Eva will select 5 of the questions, and then the answers will be posted on Bellasugar. They’ve used the controversy in their favour for sure. They’ve marketed this one brilliantly. I’ll back it up because I love this scent!

Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Lovers Collection

Gwen has come out with 5 new fragrances, inspired by the Harajuku shopping district in Tokyo. Each bottle of perfume is contained in a supercute doll bottle.
“Love” is a sensuous flora scent that comes in a super cute and frilly bottle.
“Lil Angel” is a fruity floral scent that comes in a sassy and sexy bottle.
“Music” is a delicate floral scent that comes in a bottle that’s tough, with an attitude!
“Baby” is a powdery musk scent that comes in a girlie and sweet bottle.
“G” is a modern gourmand that comes in a bottle that’s clearly the leader of the pack!

Harajuki Lovers MySpace page

Intimately Beckham for Her

It came out in 2006. I just recently tried it and admittedly didn’t have high hopes for this one. I thought it would be cheap smelling. It is a nice perfume for the price. I’ve been wearing it quite a bit this summer, and think it’s worth checking out if you like a light floral. Which I usually don’t. Go figure.

Quick correction: the member of Led Zeppelin that KA’s husband saw in Toronto was Jimmy Page, not John Bonham (who died in 1980). Whoops!

Links:

Absolument Absinthe
Palin Panties
Toronto International Film Festival

Reaity Check:

Buyer Beware One Vancouver blogger’s experience with black-market haircare products found at the local drugstore.

Promo:

Those Darn Cats is a wacky Disney fan podcast featuring our longtime listener Lisa Farry, and it’s available at iTunes too.

Song:

“Hop Scotch” by RHHSII.

Win an Oral-B Pulsonic Toothbrush

Airdrie — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 17:42:50 +0000

One entry per person, please.
Contest Ends Sept. 14, 2008

Special thanks to our friends at Oral-B for making this contest possible.

Rachel Papo’s Serial No. 3817173

Kerry Anne — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:18:05 +0000

In Israel, many females are conscripted to serve in the Army at age 18.

Rachel Papo is a Brooklyn based, American-born photographer, raised in Israel, who served mandatory duty in the Israeli army. Rachel has done a stunning photo essay on the young females on the Israeli army, Serial No. 3817131, which was her military-assigned ID number.

A quote from Rachel’s website:

At an age when social, sexual, and educational explorations are at their highest point, the life of an eighteen-year-old Israeli girl is interrupted. She is plucked from her home surroundings and placed in a rigorous institution where her individuality is temporarily forced aside in the name of nationalism. During the next two years, immersed in a regimented and masculine environment, she will be transformed from a girl to a woman, within the framework of an army that is engaged in daily war and conflict. She is now a soldier serving her country, in a military camp amidst hundreds like her, yet beneath the uniform there is someone wishing to be noticed, listened to, and understood.

from boingboing.net

Fun Up-do’s your thing? Try “knotheads”

Airdrie — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 02:46:16 +0000

Barrettes, pins, clips, hair bands and chop-sticks: you’ll do anything to play with your hair. If you are one of those ladies who likes to have fun with your hair you must try new knotheads. They are bendable wires with soft satin washable covers. They come in two sizes, short and long, and do not damage hair like some hair bands can.

I found them a little too slippery to hold my silky hair in place, but when used in conjunction with a clear plastic ponytail holder, you can achieve some really funky looks.

Product Release: “everyday Lip Gloss”

Airdrie — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 02:18:10 +0000

There is a new lip gloss on the market and it’s designed for the everyday woman. New everyday Lip gloss is priced right, has natural ingredients and part of the proceeds go to breast cancer research.

Experience an all natural gloss that comforts and moisturizes your lips while providing a brilliant shine and shimmer.

Crafted from the finest natural ingredients, this lip gloss will seal in moisture without making your lips feel sticky.

Choose from eight beautiful colors that are designed to wear alone or over your favorite lip stick.

Our no-mess application is designed for everyday use.

.15 oz. Tube – $5.00

Opportunities exist to sell everyday Lip Gloss. Click here for wholesale information.

We will be giving this new lip gloss a full review on an upcoming episode of Lip Gloss and Laptops.

Episode #118 – Airdrie’s Seattle Finds, Secret Flawless and the Oral-B Pulsonic Toothbrush

Airdrie — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:32:57 +0000

Airdrie’s Reviews

1. L’Occitane Aromachologie Discipline Mist:

A delicate hair mist, to tame the hair with the lightest touch.
A natural complex of 5 essential oils – Angelica, Lavender, Geranium, Ylang-ylang and Patchouli – plus honey and corn extracts. This leave-on mist helps control hair. It softly holds hair in place, leaving it feeling supple and light. This non-sticky texture preserves the shine of hair and protects against the damaging effects of environmental stresses. Product plus: spray on hair to remove unpleasant odors (cigarette smoke, cooking odors…). (link)

I love this product. The price point is high at $20, but the scent and product is fabulous.

2. REN Clean Skincare Line from London available online or at Barneys New York

3. By TERRY cosmetics from France available to purchase (in stores and online) at Barney’s New York

Kerry Anne’s Reviews

1. Oral B Pulsonic Toothbrush

The rechargeable Oral-B Pulsonic has 27,000 gentle sonic vibrations per minute, super thin bristles for precision cleaning and gentle whitening. It also has two “speeds”; clean, and sensitive.

The product will become available in September and can be pre-ordered until then on Drugstore.com and Amazon.com.

2. Secret Flawless Anti-Perspirant

It’s a good product, and claims that it has “Five Facets” of flawless performance: goes on clear, strong wetness and odor protection, skin-nourishing conditioners (also available in an Olay formula), smooth, lightweight formula, and self-renewing fragrances. I actually think it’s a better product than the Secret Clinical. The downside, apparently it has such an annoying commercial that women are being turned off the product.

Links:

Daiso
Gnomedex Conference
Wine Bra. Thanks to Arieanna of Cooking Gadgets (just one of her blogs) for the link

Blush: The Search for America’s Greatest Makeup Artist
Isis Tsunami of America’s Next Top Model

Reality Check:

Miss Sister 2008 Canceled!

Song of the Week:

“Never Got Her Number” by Alistair Christl from the Podsafe Music Network.

Delicious

Kerry Anne — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 22:13:51 +0000

MAC Cosmetics has officially released their Cult of Cherry line, which has a cherries and chocolate colour scheme. The colours are bold and rich and dramatic; perfect for Fall.
From the MAC site:

The new forbidden fruit. Deep, dark, dramatic. Lips ripened with juicy cerises and intoxicating kirsches while eyes smoulder in luscious spiced chocolate. With its sense of way-to-go dark, this is how we separate the bitter from the sweet…Fall drama just got more delicious.

I tried the Illegal Purple Nail Laquer and Bing Mattene Lipstick, and they are opaque and super dark. New shades of Lipstick, Lipglass, Powder Blush, and Eyeshadow are also featured in the collection. Check out Cult of Cherry online, or at your local MAC store.

MAC has been releasing promotional videos to accompany some of their new lines. The Cult of Cherry movie stars, and is directed by, Floria Sigismondi, a Canadian photographer/director who has worked with the likes of Interpol, Christina Aguilera, David Bowie, The Raconteurs, and Marilyn Manson.

MAC Cult of Cherry

Maggie Ruggiero, food editor and stylist for Gourmet magazine was asked to be a part of the making of the Cult of Cherry video, (she’s what I’ve deemed the “cherry whisperer” toward the end) and gives us a glimpse behind the scenes.
Inside the Cherry Cult

Some special finds in Seattle

Airdrie — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 17:58:45 +0000

1. I purchased a set of five of these fabulous door knobs at Anthropologie. They have clothes there, but I could not afford them. The knobs will look fabulous on my closet doors.

2.
I found a fan of Lip Gloss and Laptops at Nordstrom Rack. She recognized me and made me feel like Angelina Jolie; internetfamous! She is a huge fan of the podcast, but has never left a comment. It was great to meet her!

3. Daiso! w00t!

We are packing up and heading home now. It was a great trip. I love Seattle. I wish I could stay another week, but alas, reality calls.

Summer Recap

Kerry Anne — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 07:51:10 +0000

As the summer draws to a close, I thought I’d share with you some of the things that have made this summer memorable for me.

Book

In the Skin of a Lion by Michael Ondaatje.
I’ve lived on the West Coast for fourteen years now, but I still get homesick for Toronto. (I can hear the collective groans of my Vancouver friends now). It’s a love story that precedes another of Ondaatje’s famous novels, later made into a film, The English Patient. In the Skin of a Lion depicts the building of some of Toronto’s most notable structures, including the Prince Edward Viaduct, and the **R.C. Harris Water Filtration Plant, in my old neighbourhood, the Beaches. It also weaves in the untold story of new Canadian immigrants in Toronto, and the integral, yet unrecognized role they played in building that city’s history.

**A little know fact about the R.C. Harris Water Filtration Plant is that it served as the Melonville Maximum Security Prison in an episode of SCTV where they visit the prison on Mrs. Falbo’s Tiny Town.

Drink

Strongbow Cider – Sweet Jesus, this stuff is good. Not all sweet and fruity. It’s crisp, and the perfect beverage for a hot summer afternoon. Drink it cold.

Getaway – The Sunshine Coast, BC

Fun Website

Style Rookie. Now I’m not much of fashionista, but twelve-year-old Tavi sure makes looking at fashion fun. She’s got an interesting site, and I get to see what the kids are wearing these days, plus she makes me feel nostalgic for my childhood because she reminds me of my old friend, Chase. When we were twelve, we’d dress up all crazy, put on the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and let loose. Where were our parents when we were proclaiming that we were “Sweet Transvestites from Transexual, Translyvania“? Anyways, Tavi is an original. She’s quirky and fun, and has taken the fashion blogging world by storm, though not without controversy. Some doubt that she’s doing her site on her own. Indeed, her sharp wit, and writing style may seem wise beyond her years, but really, people, lay off. She’s twelve.

Music

In Rainbows by Radiohead. If you ever get a chance to see them, go for it. If I was 20 years younger and devoid of responsibility, I might drop everything and follow them around a bit. Not like a stalker, like a Deadhead, but I’d be a Radioheadhead.

House of Cards by Radiohead

Actor

Robert Downey Jr. Le sigh. Great in Iron Man and Tropic Thunder.

An Uncomplicated Kindness @ Gnomedex today

Airdrie — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:12:43 +0000

While I spent the morning walking around Seattle, shopping for back to school clothes, the vibe down the street at Gnomedex this year has taken-on a less materialistic theme. While I know it is unrealistic to think that people just like me will forgo spending money on clothes and cosmetics, and instead donate 100% of that money to needy groups (NGO’s helping with child prostitution and AIDS orphans, or scientific research into cancer or diabetes, to name a few), I can see that there is a balance that can be achieved.

I’m spending this afternoon watching the conference via USTREAMtv, and am extremely impressesed with two of the presenters I’ve seen.

1. Beth Kanter:

Beth Kanter has a great story about tapping her social network in service of a good cause. At Gnomedex 8.0, she’ll tell us how she poked, prodded, tweeted, blogged and mobilized a networked army of supporters to rally their friends and personal networks and raise over $90,000 for Cambodian Orphans, winning the #1 spot for Global Causes for America’s Giving Challenge in January 2008. Come hear the story and the learn the secrets of success for socially-networked, person-to-person fundraising. Hopefully, you will leave the room inspired and ready to use social media for good!

(source)

Beth spoke passionately about her cause. I am inspired by her because she holds so much hope for the future of fund-raising and helping others. We all know what it feels like to suffer from “donor burn-out” (too many causes to donate to, all the while keeping the kids in piano lessons and mom in designer jeans, you know?) and Beth loses sleep over it. She remains positive and makes me think that the next big idea could be just around the corner, in my mind or someone else’s. For example, during her 30 minute talk she inspired the audience and viewers online to raise money for one of her causes. It was amazing. And yes, it did make me re-think how many pairs of jeans I really need; but also made me want to write this blogpost and share her enthusiasm with you –my friends, readers and podcast audience. Do you have an idea, inspiration, concept for raising money for a particular cause that is outside-the-box, different, new? Look at how Beth uses social media to attain her fund-raising goals, and perhaps take a lesson from her in order to attain your goal. Simple. Uncomplicated.

2. Amanda Koster

Amanda is an internationally acclaimed photographer who has made it her mission to raise awareness by documenting some of the world’s more compelling issues. For over a decade she has combined her anthropology background with photographic and media-making skills to create inspiring media content as a means for powerful communication, storytelling and learning.

Her project is called Salaam Garage. Please check it out here.

Chris Pirillo, Gnomedex’s organizer, has told me that he will put all the Gnomedex08 presentation up on YouTube. This may take a few weeks, but when they do become available, try to view Amanda’s presentation.

________________________________

While Beth and Amanda are trying to raise awareness of issues in the Third World, Vancouver blogger Tanya (aka NetChick) is trying to raise money for Diabetes research. I had a chance to talk at length with her at the Gnomedex pre-registration party last night. She needs to raise $4500 in pledges, and will be running a half-marathon as part of Buzz Bishop & 95Crave’s Team Diabetes. Hoping for a viral promotion, she is offering entries into a $500 draw in exchange for blogging about her efforts, and one entry for each $25 donation. Check out her post about the draw. $500 can buy a lot of jeans. Or would make a great donation to a different charity.

I’m sitting here in the bar at the Red Lion, drinking margaritas, watching Gnomedex, trying to write to inspire you all to feel as excited about life as I feel right now. But I’m not sure it it’s working? Are you inspired yet? If not, maybe you should have a margarita and re-read the post.
Or plan to go to Gnomedex next year, or just watch it live at home.

Wish you were here . . .

Airdrie — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:43:34 +0000

You can check-out the Gnomedex conference live!

We had a great shopping day yesterday, and a great party last night.
Today I’m hitting the SAM to see the Impressionists show.

Gnomedex (Shopping update #1):

Airdrie — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:28:54 +0000

So Derek and I are down in Seattle for a few days. He is attending the Gnomedex conference, and I am going shopping (yay!) I need a few back-to school clothing pieces as I’m working five days a week this year — at least that’s my excuse. I love shopping “cross-border”. There is such a better selection in the USA. I also get to check-out some stores we don’t have in Canada.

L’Occitane has a new Hair Care line. Each product in the collection contains five essential oils designed to strengthen, repair, regenerate, and soften the hair: Angelica, Lavender, Geranium, Ylang-ylang and Patchouli. I’m thinking of buying the Aromachologie Discipline Mist ($20). I tried it out yesterday, and while it did not leave my hair smelling as good as I’d hoped, it did do a great job to re-invigorate my curls after the long drive from Vancouver to Lynwood, where I went shopping at Alderwood Mall.

Today we are going to head-up to one of my favourite Seattle neighbourhoods: Capitol Hill. Home of my first taste of Urban Outfitters, Capitol Hill (aka “Broadway”) is also the colourful gay district, and it has loads of great shops and restaurants.

To change the topic, have you seen the site YearbookYourself yet? You can take a picture of your face and morph it into a yearbook-style photo. The best part is that you can pick dates starting from 1950! The photo below is me, circa 1952. (Thanks to Mace for the idea.)

And here’s Kerry Anne, also 1952.

Episode #117 – Jane Iredale, Tarte, Big Sexy Hair, Garnier Nutritioniste & Who’s Shagging Who?

Kerry Anne — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:43:31 +0000

This week we review:

Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics Dream Tint

(Big) Sexy Hair Root Pump Voluminizing Spray Mousse

Tarte provocateur pressed mineral powder (spf 8)

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew anti-sun-damage daily moisture lotion

Pureology DryShine Styler

Books

Airdrie recommends:

“Nights In Rodanthe” by Nicholas Sparks. Soon to be a movie with Richard Gere and Diane Lane.
trailer:

Kerry Anne recommends:

The Gum Thief by Douglas Coupland

Movies

Airdrie recommends: “The Other Boleyn Girl”
trailer:

Links

Pin Up hair how-to’s on YouTube

America the Beautiful
Booty Boosters at LoveMyBubbles.com (via Styledash)
Brad Pitt hooks up with Kiehl’s for an ecofriendly aloe bodywash
Russell Brand and his podcast

We all know that Air has been quite the activist for the Original Tampax, but KA has been using o.b. for years, so was totally on board when we were contacted by the people at Matchstick, sent a free trial kit, and asked to spread the word about them.
Not only are o.b. tampons tiny and discreet, but they’re better for the environment than other brands. Did you know that o.b. tampons create 58% less waste than brands with applicators?

Get your own free trial case of o.b. mighty.small. tampons, and if you’ve got a couple minutes, fill out the Blog Reader Survey.

Song

Granfaloon Bus
“Petty” (mp3)
from “Exploded View”
(reapandsow, Inc.)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Puretracks
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks
More On This Album

My new home in cyberspace!

Airdrie — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 04:22:31 +0000

I used to blog privately at another location, but have decided to meld my personal blog to the Lip Gloss and Laptops Podcast Blog. I will not only be talking about beauty, but all sorts of things. Welcome new and old readers. Please leave comments and feedback.

You don’t have to listen to my podcast to enjoy this blog. Just wait and see!

You will notice my friend Kerry Anne will also be blogging here. Look under the title of the post for her name or my name so you know wrote it.

Today’s tip is a great free e-card service called Someecards.com. I absolutely love them.

VinoCamp08

Airdrie — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:05:23 +0000

Yesterday I attended the first ever VinoCamp, organized by some Vancouver Social Media people and in celebration of the local wine industry here in BC. It was a fantastic day. I got to taste wine from all over BC, and also sipped a few expensive wines that I otherwise could not afford.

I did not live-blog the event, but the lovely ladies over at the Full-Bodied wine blog did. Check them out for a full report of all the wine stuff we experienced. My favourite talk was on wine glasses by the people at Riedel. We each got a Riedel wine glass to take home as a gift. I also enjoyed a talk by Chef Bal Arneson on healthy Indian cooking for the modern woman!

Great photos of the event were taken by Megan Cole, available on Flickr.

Extra special thanks to my husband for driving me too and from the event, which was held at the UBC Botanical Gardens.

Episode #116 – Tips for Curly and Wavy Hair

Airdrie — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:05:57 +0000

Curly Hair Product Recommendations & Links

Listener Picks:

Jessicurl An independent line for curly hair exclusively.
NaturallyCurly.com A website devoted to everything curly! Discover what “curl-type” you are.
DevaCurl “One Condition”
Bumble and Bumble Tonic
PureOlogy Nanoworks Luxury Hair Mask
Biolage Gelee hair gel
Infusium Repairologie Shampoo & Conditioner
Mixed Chicks product line for curly hair

Airdrie’s Product Picks:
Kerastase Elasto Curl ($30)

Pantene Style Curl Shaper aka Curls Anti-frizz Creme (< $10)

Sebastian Whipped Creme Light Conditioning Style Whip ($18)

Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel
Joico K-PAK Protect & Shine Serum
Pantene Style Always Smooth Anti-Frizz Serum

MAC Lustre Twins

MAC has released nine shades of Longwear Lustre Lipcolour. The double sided tube features a rich lip colour, and a sheerly shaded topcoat. Airdrie tried it in Pink Air/White Top and found it long-wearing and still comfortable. Also in the collection are three nailpolishes.

Links

Urbanella specializes products for curly, kinky and wavy hair Calvin Klein’s Secret Obsession Perfume ad, starring the very hot Eva Mendes, garners the product way more publicity for not being shown on TV. Check it out at Superficial Diva.

Song

It’s “Falling Down” by Duran Duran, baby!

Episode #115: Murad, Matrix, Sunsilk Sea Mist and lots more summer fun

Kerry Anne — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 07:15:23 +0000

[Download the show now]

Podcast Puppy via Air’s Flickr

Murad Age Reform Intensives with Durian Cell Reform

Rimmel Wear Maxx Nail Polish

Sunsilk Waves of Envy Sea Mist

Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara
Matrix Sleek.Look Shampoo and Conditioner

Links

Free Stuff at Allure mag!
Feist
J Brand Jeans is making jeans for curvy women under their new Blue Label. Skinny jeans and regular jeans that have more thigh room and they won’t gape at the waist. Hallelujah! Now if I could only justify spending $160 on jeans instead of groceries.
Harvey’s Original Seatbelt Bags at Hipundies

Apple Bottoms Jeans

Broken Social Scene
“Love And Mathematics” (mp3)
from “Noise Factory Sampler Vol. 02″
(Noise Factory)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Episode #114 – MAC Sonic Chic and New View, Aussie Hair Care, Heidi Klum Skin Care, Pacifica Perfume and Cover Girl Eye Enhancers

Kerry Anne — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 06:36:41 +0000

[Download the show]

MAC Sonic Chic Mineralize Blush

MAC New View Mineralize SkinFinish Duo

Heidi Klum’s In An Instant

Aussie “Opposites Attract” line of hair-care products.

CoverGirl “Eye Enhancers” - This new shade collection from CoverGirl was designed by P&G Creative Director and world-famous make-up maven, Pat McGrath. It includes bright, bold, trendy colours called “Blast” colours and pairs these with sheer layerable “Enhance” colours. Available in 1, 3, and 4-colour kits, these products are priced-right for those wanting a runway look at a drugstore price.

Pacifica “Nerola Orange Blossom” Perfume

Links

Eat Pray Love
The Secret Life of a Slummy Mummy
Last Comic Standing
Sean Cullen
Britain’s Missing Top Model
e-mancipate (a project to accelerate the acceptance of male pantyhose as a regular clothing item)

Reality Check

You’d think it’d be enough to have to sport an ugly bridesmaids dress. Nuh-uh. Some demanding brides are asking their maids of honour enhance their appearance with spray-on tans, teeth whitening, botox and breast augmentation. (hat tips to BoingBoing and The New York Times)

Tommy Tutone
“867-5309/Jenny” (mp3)
from “The Singles”
(Spectra Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Pure Tracks
Buy at Amazon
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Episode #113 – Lip Balms, Bath Bombs

Kerry Anne — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:01:46 +0000

Rosebud Perfume Co. Brambleberry Rose Lip Balm

on10 Schweppes Sparkling Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm SPF 15

Pin Up Lip Balms

Lush Bath Bombs in Sex Bomb and Geo Fizz

ElizabethW Bath Fizz

Not Martha tells us how to make Bath Bombs at home!

Olay Clarify and Cleanse Pore Refining Mousse Cleanser

Links

TINte Cosmetics Flavored Lip Color

Hey, remember the 80s? And the Vintage Village Lip Lickers?

Reality Check: tanning beds are to be avoided

The skin cancer rates in women are climbing yearly. Why not tan the safe way: self-tanners. They can look real and are a great partner for holiday sun-tanning. We recommend the
Tan Towel.

Episode #112 – Sephora Finds, Sunscreen and a Social Networking Site for “Beautiful People” Only!

Kerry Anne — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 04:28:43 +0000

We are back from holiday, and have lots of new products to talk about.

Reviews:
The Balm Balms Away

Benefit PosieTint

Benefit erase paste

Revlon COLORSTAY Mineral Eye Shadow

Artemis Woman Personal Groomer

Links

Camel Toe Undies
Roc Minesol Protect Suncare

Reality Check

A new social networking site for good looking people only. Warning: skank-alert.

Beautiful People
National Post “An Open Letter to Beautiful People.net”
Mike’s Bloggity Blog Blob

Song of the Week: “Apologies” by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

Summer Vacation!

Airdrie — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:16:16 +0000

Airdrie and Kerry Anne are just back from a week in Disneyland with the kids. There will be no show this week, however, please keep those entries for our MAC giveaway coming in. We will announce the winner next show.

We have some exciting reviews and more crazy internet finds coming your way next week.

Episode #111 – Dry Oils, Favourite Brushes, Summer Makeup

Derek — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:57:25 +0000

Kerry Anne and Airdrie are off to Disneyland this week with their geek spawn, so the links are going to be short and sweet this week.

Reviews

Dry Oil

While dry oils generally aren’t as moisturizing as cream moisturizers or standard body oils, they do have their merits. Dry oils absorb into the skin more quickly, and feel lighter on the skin. They’re nice for summer because they’re not greasy or sticky, are lightly fragranced, and leave the skin with a nice sheen (beware, some are rather sparkly).

Fresh Rice Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse

Lise Watier Havana Dry Oil Body Glow

The Body Shop Olive Dry Oil Mist
Kiehl’s Superbly Restorative Body Oil

Brushes

MAC Cosmetic Brushes
Bobbi Brown Cosmetic Brushes

Links

Blue Jeans Perfume Ad from Stuck in the ’70s

Facts of Life “I don’t like to look a giftbong in the mouth” clip (from Cityrag)
In-N-Out Burger

Reality Check

We talk about internet privacy, backyard Googling via satellite images, and the personal information people release about themselves on the internet. How much is too much, and will they eventually regret it?

mc chris
“nrrrd grrrl” (mp3)
from “mc chris is dead”
(Whoa Oh Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Episode #110 – Neutrogena Helioplex, L’Oreal Carbon Black and Envirosax

Kerry Anne — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 05:00:54 +0000

Neutrogena Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock and Color Boosting Sunblock with Helioplex

L’Oreal Carbon Black Voluminous Mascara

Envirosax reusable shopping bags

Check out the Breast Cancer Awareness limited edition pink Envirosax fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society.

Links

Bio-Oil
Estee Lauder’s TurboLash All Effects Motion Mascara vibrates (via Styledash)
Air is Rollin’
Budget Beauty Love Blog check it out!

Reality Check

One of our listeners, Flor, a Mexican citizen currently living in the UK, writes us to take issue with the fact that the Sex and the City movie majorly disses Mexico.

Cake
“Rock ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle” (mp3)
from “Motorcade of Generosity”
(Upbeat Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Pure Tracks
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Episode #109 – Jo Malone Vitamin E Scrub, tarte enbrightenmint and Spring/Summer MAC lines

Kerry Anne — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 04:01:24 +0000

This week we announce a new draw for products from the new MAC lines, and review:

Jo Malone Vitamin E Body Treatment Scrub

tarte enbrightenmint: BriteSmile® whitener & tarte lipgloss

New MAC lines for Spring/Summer 2008

Tendertones

Naughty Nauticals
Neo Sci-Fi
Solar Field
Cool Heat
Skinsheen

Links

Married couple have sex 101 days straight (and somehow find the time to write a book about it)
Hydrogen Peroxide as a mouthwash
We’re going to have to go ahead and pass on both the CString and the Strapless G String.

Celebrity Crush News: Vicky B., a faithful listener from Detroit, got to meet her celebrity crush, actor and musician Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords. Talk about two minutes in Heaven! Here is a photo she sent us of the two of them together.

Flight of the Conchords sing Business Time

Reality Check

Are there any benefits to detox diets? One doctor speaks out against the onslaught of celebrity-endorsed detoxes. Are they really beneficial? Or, are they simply a quick fix for those who want to lose a few inches? (via New York Daily News)

Song of the Week:
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band
“Penny Waiting On Change” (mp3)
from “Pay Me No Mind”
(Northern Blues)

Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
More On This Album

Episode #108 – Lips, Cheeks, Big Toes and Volcanic Ashes

Airdrie — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:17:01 +0000

Reviews:

CoverGirl Wetslicks AmazeMint Lip Gloss (Available July 2008) This new version of an old favourite is back, this time infused with Crest Peppermint Oil, giving you a just brushed freshness. Available in 13 shades, three of which have blue undertones, noted for giving teeth a whiter appearance. Airdrie loves, loves, loves this product. And it’s a great price. (MSRP $6.99 CDN)

Tarte Natural Cheekstain

Prescriptives Colorscope Lip Gloss

MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator (Love it!)

“Big Toes” Artificial toe-nails for bruised or missing big toenails. These artificial nails have a natural look, without polish or shine. Derek’s before and after pictures (below) do not do them justice. From a few feet away they really do look like real toenails. We think these would be great for men or women who have a special event, but don’t want to wear a coloured or French polished nail.
Derek lost his big toe years ago. He had surgery to remove the nail bed, and has a lot of scar tissue there.The artificial nail looks better in real life, and if it were me I would put one on the healthy big toe to make them match.
(Store Locator for this product by Kiss USA)

Links:
Crocs introduces a high-heel sandal called Cyprus

Heelarious: Her first high heels (for babies 0-6 months old, wtf?)

Reality Check: We discuss the British TV show called “Look Good Naked.” Also, re-branded as “life-style wear”, some maternity clothes look good at any stage of life. It’s OK ladies, just tell the saleslady that you had surgery recently, and go to town at the maternity store. We’ll tell you how to wear it right.
Look Good Naked
Hazel and Co.
Darren Barefoot
Cassette From My Ex
Hidden Pleasures

Song of the Week: “How To Find a Decent Sushi Bar” by Brainpool.

Episode #107 – Aveda Hair Care, MAC Paints and Ola Hawai’i Cane Sugar Scrub

Kerry Anne — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:57:45 +0000

Aveda Color Conserve Shampoo and Color Conserve Conditioner

Aveda Dry Remedy

MAC Paint

Ola Hawai’i Coconut Lemongrass Cane Sugar Scrub

Links

Jo Malone Vitamin E Body Treatment Scrub
Quo Cosmetics
Brunettes and Billionaires
ShapeFX
KnickerPicker

Reality Check

Why do some companies use thin models to show fashions for fuller figures?

Tokyo Police Club
“Nature Of The Experiment” (mp3)
from “A Lesson In Crime”
(Paper Bag Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
Buy at mTraks Download
Buy at Insound
More On This Album

Episode #107 Delayed!

Airdrie — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 16:18:33 +0000

Sorry people, but Episode #107 is going to be a few days late this week. We recorded it, but it is stuck in a series of tubes and may not come down your pipe until the weekend.

Episode #106 – Aveda’s Nourish-Mint, Jo Malone Body Creme, Nivea Body Sun-Kissed Moisturizer and Air’s Home Scents

Airdrie — Wed, 28 May 2008 05:15:57 +0000

Reviews:

Aveda Nourish-Mint Renewing Lip Treatment and Nourish-Mint Smoothing Lip Color

Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Body Creme

Nivea Body Sun-Kissed Firming Body Lotion

Airdrie’s favourite products to scent the home

1. Shampure Candle by Aveda

2. Madagascar Spice Candle by Pacifica Candles

3. L’Occitane Honey Scented Candle (Available in USA, not Canada)

4. Tantra Blend Diffuser Oil for burning by Saje

Links:
WhizBiz — Lets women pee standing up

R.E.M.’s set list – Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, BC
Holla Back New York City – the ladies a fighting back against street harassers and cat callers by posting their pics
Nag Champa Incense
Madonna’s Four Minutes video

Reality Check:
Approaching the uncanny valley from the other direction via Kottke.org

YouTube is full of videos about beauty re-touching and Photoshop. These two are just a couple of examples. Listen to the whole show for our discussion on beauty touch-ups, Madonna, and real beauty.

The Beauty of Life

Airdrie — Thu, 22 May 2008 17:39:16 +0000

Check-out “The Beauty of Life” blog. Written by fellow beauty junkie Jamie Allison Sanders, The Beauty of Life blog has lots of great reviews. She is giving away $824 worth of product to one lucky reader this month. Enter Draw Here!!

Episode #105 – Lush Karma, Bio-Oil and The Body Shop Almond Cuticle Oil

Kerry Anne — Wed, 21 May 2008 06:53:28 +0000

This week we announce the winner of our Bumble & bumble Spray de Mode draw and review:

Lush Karma Solid Perfume and Dusting Powder

Bio-Oil

The Body Shop Almond Oil and Nail & Cuticle Treatment

Links

Inspa World
Kat Von D for Sephora
Nundies by Miss Oops

Reality Check

The Dove Campaign for Real Beauty comes under fire, as Pascal Dangin admits to retouching photos in an interview with New Yorker magazine. He was quoted as saying,

“Do you know how much retouching was on that?” he asked. “But it was great to do, a challenge, to keep everyone’s skin and faces showing the mileage but not looking unattractive.”

He has since retracted his statements, and the folks at Dove also claim that there was no retouching. (via Gawker)

Song of the Week

Kassin+2
“O Seu Lugar” (mp3)
from “Futurismo”
(Luaka Bop)

Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
More On This Album

Episode #104 – Braun Silk-épil Xpressive, Nivea Good-bye Cellulite and Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Spray

Kerry Anne — Wed, 14 May 2008 04:51:48 +0000

In this week’s show, Kerry Anne and Airdrie discuss some of the joys of womanhood; epilation, cellulite and fake tans, and review:

Braun Silk-épil Xpressive hurts so good

Nivea Body Good-bye Cellulite Body Beauty Program

Rimmel London Sunshimmer Bronzing Spray

Links

muxtape (Kerry Anne’s muxtape)
What is carnitine?
Florida high school teacher fired for putting bikini shot on the interwebs
Secretary film trailer
Moxy Fruvous

Reality Check: MoFash

MoFash was a fashion show that took place in California on May 3, 2008. It’s mission:

To unite organizations, faiths and individuals in the community at a fashion show that demonstrates commitment to virtue and class through chic and modest clothing choices.

Check out MoFash.org, and look at more photos from the event here.

Song of the Week: Sweet Sorrow by The Complements

Episode #103 – Bb Spray de Mode, Smashbox O-Gloss, and Clinique Superbalanced Compact

Kerry Anne — Wed, 07 May 2008 04:46:52 +0000

This week we announce the winners of our Lise Watier and Nivea draws and review:

Bumble & bumble Spray de Mode

Smashbox O-Gloss Intuitive Lip Gloss

Clinique Superbalanced Compact Makeup SPF 20

Rimmel SunShimmer Instant Tan Mousse

Links

No See’ems Fashion Tape
Renew Life First Cleanse
Wild Rose Herbal D-Tox

mark Glossblossom Ripening Lip Tint
BlackBerry Pearl 8100 Smartphone
Schick Intuition Razor
What Not to Wear : TLC

Reality Check

Gonzalo Otalora, an author in Argentina who describes himself as “downright ugly”, proposes a tax on beautiful people in that country. (BBC News)

Song of the Week

Zimbabwe Legit
“Rock to the Drums” (mp3)
from “Brothers From The Mother”
(Glow In The Dark Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Episode #102 Drugstore Brands, Celebrity Crushes, and Madonna!

Airdrie — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:40:47 +0000

Drugstore brands can be just as good, if not better, than those expensive designer brands. This week we feature a bunch of drugstore products that will give you just the pick-me-up you might need this spring!

Drugstore Product Reviews:

Olay Clarify and Cleanse Lathering Cloths
Rimmel Waterproof Magnifier Mascara

Max Factor Vivid Impact Eye Shadow
Max Factor ColorGenius Pressed Powder
Red by Kiss Tweezer sets

Links:
Bottoms Up
Vogue Italia Black Beauty issue.
Bill Vigars
Robert Irvine: Dinner Impossible

Reality Check

“Mommy makeovers” are becoming a trend among the age 20-39 set. Women are going under the knife, sometimes for multiple plastic surgery procedures, such as tummy tucks, breast augmentation and vaginal reconstruction surgery to regain their pre-childbirth bodies. (via HealthZone.ca)

A plastic surgeon from Florida, Dr. Michael Salzhauer, has released My Beautiful Mommy, a book for children to help mommies explain to their children why they are having plastic surgery. Twisted. (via Newsweek)

Song of the Week: The Beat Goes On by Madonna, Featuring Precise (courtesy PMN)

Episode #101 Tips for Women of Colour; Lise Watier’s “Le Gloss Plumpissimo”, “La Base”, and “Mascara Wow” give-aways!

Airdrie — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:55:33 +0000

Special Feature: Tips for women of colour.

In this week’s show, Airdrie passes along some great tips for women of colour.

From Henna at Canadian Beauty

. . . the main one being to trust your own instinct rather than a makeup artist who is trying to sell you something (obviously, if they work at a counter they are likely biased).

Also, when in doubt go a shade darker. I know there’s sometimes two shades that seem similar but you can’t decide which one to get – in that case get the darker (or warmer) one because that way you’ll be covered if your skin gets a little tanned. It’s also a good idea to match your neck instead of your face, since usually your neck is a little darker.

I have found that the Estee Lauder, MAC and Bobbi Brown brands have the best colour matches. The one exception is Clinique because their formulations run a little pink or ashy. CoverGirl is also very good and affordable!

Also, if you’re going to get a new foundation or concealer, take your digital camera along. Once the makeup artist has done your face, ask them to snap a picture of you and see how you look. Is the colour off? Do you still look like you? Does the colour on your face match the rest of your body (especially your neck)? Can you see a line of foundation at the hairline? I think that this can be even better than taking a friend with you because nobody is more critical than yourself.

Last tip: the darker your skin is, the more colour it can handle, so don’t be scared to try corals and bright pinks if you’re darker. They look so pretty and vibrant and can really wake up a complexion. This goes for eyeshadow too! Try those bright blues and greens because they will contrast with your skin and highlight your eyes.

From Keri B, Senior Artist for MAC Cosmetics.

For years it seems that there has been a misunderstanding that women who have a deeper skin tone need to specifically stay within a certain color palette, and although some colors will read truer or more intense on a darker skin tone the best option is to start with these basics. First start with a light weight moisturizer like MAC Studio Moisture Fix, it’s water based and contains Shea Butter and Vitamin E in a time release liposome that nourishes the skin all day long, it’s great for all skin types especially Normal to Dry. Even if you feel you are oily in the T-zone, this is totally normal and still requires some moisture so that the skin can stay in balance.
Your best investment is a great looking foundation that can even out the skin tone and texture, at MAC we have some great options for all skin tones and types, some suggestions would be the MAC Mineralized Satinfinish SPF Foundation for a dewy or satin looking finish or MAC Select SPF 15 for a natural Matte finish.
Eyes: Choose colors that have enough depth to create dimension on the eyes. Mixing textures on the eyes such as a frost texture for your eyelid, and a more matte shade in the crease will give you a truly polished look. Pair these shadows with great brushes and even a beginner can create a perfected look.
If you are a more natural beauty choose colors that are rich, bronze browns or burgundies, remembering that colors that are closest to your skin tone are going to appear more natural because they will have less contrast on the skin. Some suggestions would be MAC eye shadows in Mulch, Mythology or Trax for the lid of the eye. Apply these shades on the entire lid of the eye with a #239 brush. For the crease I would suggest Saddle or Cork eye shadow using the #224 brush starting near the inner corner of your crease and blend out. You can also use eye shadow as eye liner as well! Colors like Sketch, Embark or Carbon make great liners…utilizing the #266 brush you can create a long wearing line that gives great definition to the eye and lash line. Add two coats of black mascara to the top and bottom lashes to finish your look.
Cheeks: An absolute must have is MAC Peaches Sheertone blush it’s a soft kiss of color that looks beautiful on the apple of the cheek. Using a soft domed shaped brush like MAC’s #129 or #109 in a circular motion on the apple of the cheek will help give just the right application.
Lips: There are so many options for lips, especially when the eyes are soft and defined. In order to keep things soft try sheer, glossy or frosted shades of burgundies, browns or soft reds. Some options are Oh Baby or C-thru lipglass or Spice it Up lipstick. To make a statement without even saying a word try a bolder shade of lipstick… some options would be “O”, X-S or Underworld lipstick. Remember that lipsticks offer a more opaque finish where a gloss gives a softer sheerer finish.

For those of you who are looking for a great drugstore brand, check-out the special line for women of colour from Cover Girl: The Queen Latifah Collection. The website Every Woman Is a Queen is a great resource for women of all colours. If your local drugstore does not carry this collection, as mine does not, you can shop online. At these low prices it might be worth the online risks, like wrong colour match.

This Week we also review new products from Lise Watier:

Mascara Wow

Le Gloss Plumpissimo

La Base

We also review:

Boots No7 Restore and Renew Beauty Serum

Song of the Week:
Presidents Of The United States Of America
“So Lo So Hi” (mp3)
from “These Are The Good Times People”
(Cooking Vinyl)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

Win a Saturn Vue Hybrid Car for Earth-Day!

Airdrie — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 23:42:59 +0000

TotalBeauty.com Celebrates Earth-Day with “Totally Green Sweepstakes”

Starting April 17th through June 5th 2008

In celebration of Earth-Day on April 22nd, TotalBeauty.com, the first online beauty product library, is set to launch an eco-awareness campaign and their biggest sweepstakes to date, the “Totally Green Sweepstakes.” Starting April 17th through June 5th 2008, TotalBeauty.com will launch the eco-beauty feature and sweepstakes, benefitting HealthChild.org, while educating women on making eco-conscious beauty choices. One lucky winner will be driving away with a new 2008 Saturn Vue Hybrid car filled with a year’s supply of luxurious green and organic beauty products.

To enter, all Earth-Day supporters just go to TotalBeauty.com and search for their favorite (or not so favorite) beauty products, then write and submit a review. That’s it. From April 17th through June 5th, TotalBeauty.com will be giving away hundreds of Earth-Day inspired daily prizes, including conflict-free diamond from Brilliant Earth, eco-spa trips from Spas of America, and more. And, each time a review is written, TotalBeauty.com will automatically enter the reviewer in the Totally Green Sweepstakes that will give them the chance to win the ultimate prize of a 2008 Saturn Vue Hybrid car filled with beauty products from Origins Organics, Sephora, Raw Natural Minerals, Suki Skincare, and Tela.

Within just one month of its official launch date in December 2007, TotalBeauty.com is already the most comprehensive online beauty library for women generating a million monthly unique visitors to its community. With over 60,000 product reviews of prestige, mass market, niche and spa brands, this innovative beauty resource has skyrocketed to the top 5 beauty destinations on the internet for women.

Founded in 2007 and venture backed, TotalBeauty.com is the first and largest unbiased product review directory that spans all aspects of the beauty industry. Its unique ‘Beauty Scout’ tool acts as a personal beauty consultant, giving members the option to customize the site and generate recommendations to match their individual needs and preferences. ‘TotalBeauty.com TV’ is filled with hours of helpful and entertaining how-to videos that offer easy to achieve beauty solutions. Finally, its ‘community’ resource is where women can share their opinions and connect with other women who have similar beauty issues and questions.

Break Week

Airdrie — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 21:30:02 +0000

Hi listeners! We are on a break this week. Kerry Anne has finals for her University courses so we will take this week off.

For fun, why don’t you listen to our first show.

Episode One of Lip Gloss and Laptops.

All our old episodes can be downloaded from our website. Just go back into the archives!

And check-out our friend Henna’s blog Canadian Beauty. She has a great give-away this week!

See you next week!

Sorry if our website is slow

Derek — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 06:22:47 +0000

Lip Gloss and Laptops recently updated the WordPress software that runs our website here, and ever since, things have been running a little slow. You might not notice if you simply subscribe to the podcast, but if you do come to the site from time to time, things may be rather more pokey than you’d like.

We know about the problem, but we’re having trouble figuring out why it’s happening. So thanks for your patience—the pages you want do load eventually!

Episode #100 – PureOlogy NanoWorks Luxury Hair Masque, Bronze Goddess and our Draw Winners!

Airdrie — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 02:09:55 +0000

Airdrie and Kerry Anne have made it to their 100th episode! Our sincere thanks to all of our listeners, blog readers and everyone who has supported us over the past two years.

Download the show

This week we review:

PureOlogy NanoWorks Luxury Hair Masque
The Body Shop Vitamin E Sink-In Moisture Mask
Sarah Jessica Parker Lovely Body Lotion

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent
Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Luminous Liquid Bronzer

Links

Restorative Yoga
West Coast College of Massage Therapy
Thomas Beatie, the pregnant transgendered man, on Oprah
Booty Pop Panties

Reality Check

Sarah Jessica Parker is unhappy with Maxim magazine’s “unsexiest” title. (via contactmusic.com)

Congratulations to the winner or our MAC Heatherette/Lise Watier Désirable Draw, and the winner of our bonus draw.

Music for this podcast is generously provided by artists through the Podsafe Music Network, and IODA Promonet. Special thanks to these websites for helping us get to our 100th show in style with music!

Our song this week is “Time To Dance” by Panic at the Disco. iTunes/iPod artwork is courtesy of xxxtoff at Flickr.com.

This blog is written with the help of Wordpress, and the podcast is produced with the help of GarageBand. We both use MAC iBook G4 computers. (Air wants a MacBookAir.)

Special thanks to our production manager, Derek K. Miller.

Episode #99 – Skin Care with Nivea, Aveeno and Clean & Clear

Kerry Anne — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:13:42 +0000

Download the show

Download audio file (20080402-lipglossandlaptops-99.mp3)

This week we review:

Nivea Smooth Sensation Daily Lotion for Dry Skin
Aveeno Positively Ageless Lifting & Firming Eye Cream
Clean & Clear Soft Skincare In-Shower Facial and Purifying Cleanser
Lovely Perfume
Sex and the City Movie/Lovely Cross Promotion in department stores April. 1, 2008.

Links:

How Not To Look Old: Fast and Effortless Ways to Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better by Charla Krupp
Time Q&A with How Not to Look Old author Charla Krupp

Weil for Origins

Labor of Love article from The Advocate
Documentary: For The Bible Tells Me So

glominerals
gloProtective Liquid Foundation
everyday minerals Mineral Makeup

Carole Pope of Rough Trade

Reality Check:
Via StyleDash, the “Vogue Diet” Controversy. Original NY Times article.

Don’t forget to enter our current draw for a MAC Heatherette eyeshadow Trio and an full size bottle of Lise Watier Désirable. Listen to the show for details on how to enter.

Song of the Week:

Download this song for free by clicking the orange button below, and rock-out to this Canadian classic, courtesy IODA Promonet.

Rough Trade
“High School Confidential” (mp3)
from “The Best Of Rough Trade- Birds Of A Feather”
(True North Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

SJP “Lovely” Gift Box for Mother’s Day Available April 1st!

Airdrie — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 05:29:37 +0000

This Mother’s Day, Sarah Jessica Parker Fragrances has something twice as Lovely… A chance to win a trip of a lifetime to New York City and attend the red carpet premiere of Sex and the City.

The Lovely Sarah Jessica Parker Mother’s Day Gift Set features the indulgent Lovely collection with a special surprise. Included on each set is a sleeve with a unique code that grants you two free tickets to “Sex and the City: The Movie” in your area. Tickets are redeemable by going to the website listed on the sleeve, entering the code, and printing off your tickets at home. And, if you redeem your tickets before May 1st you will automatically be entered for a chance to win tickets for you and a friend to attend the red carpet premiere in New York City.

The Lovely Sarah Jessica Parker Mother’s Day Gift Set will be available April 1st in fine department stores nationwide. Suggested retail price $69.50.

The gift set includes:
3.4 fl oz Lovely eau de parfum
2.5 fl oz Lovely soft body lotion
Deluxe mini eau de parfum

We will review the scent Lovely on next week’s show!

Episode #98 MAC Heatherette, Strobe, and Beauty Powder Blush, and our next Give-Away!

Airdrie — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 07:29:54 +0000

Reviews

Face Washes for Men:

Nivea For Men Double Action Face Wash
Neutrogena Men Skin Clearing Face Wash
Clean & Clear Morning Burst
Body Shop Vitamin C Cleansing Face Polish

Other Products:

MAC Heatherette
MAC Strobe
MAC Beauty Powder Blush
Beyond the Zone Last Call Leave-in Hair Conditioner

Links

Listen for details on how to win a full size bottle of Lise Watier Désirable perfume and a MAC Heatherette eyeshadow trio!

Reality Check

Miss Bimbo is a virtual fashion gaming site (200,000 members strong) from the UK targeting tweens and teens, and British medical experts and parents are up in arms about it. For good reason. From FOXNews:

Players keep a constant watch on the weight, wardrobe, wealth and happiness of their character to create “the coolest, richest and most famous bimbo in the world.”

Competing against other children, they earn “bimbo dollars” to buy plastic surgery, diet pills, facelifts, lingerie and fashionable nightclub outfits.

Yuck.

Song

“I Love You” by 37hz from the Podsafe Music Network.

Thanks also to Miss604 for the iPod artwork photo for this episode.

Désirable: The New Fragrance from Lise Watier

Airdrie — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 18:48:19 +0000

Lise Watier launched a new fragrance this week called Désirable. We will be reviewing it on next week’s show.

Here is a little sneak peek of the bottle and notes.

Desire springs to life in a sparkling, spontaneous ﬂight of sweet apple, honeyed osmanthus, and tart wild berries. The
emotion unfurls gently, revealing a subtle nose of freesia, lily of the valley, and magnolia. Like the lingering memory of
a kiss, the ﬁnal note leaves a velvety, reﬁned impression of musk and sandalwood.

It is available now, so go give it a try and see if it suits you!

Episode #97 – Two Cover Girl Products, Ultrabland Facial Cleanser by Lush, Dove Energy Glow, and Nude French Nails

Kerry Anne — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 05:20:03 +0000

Download the show

Download audio file (20080319-lipglossandlaptops-97.mp3)

This week we review:

Dove Energy Glow Daily Face Moisturizer
“That Old Devil Love” bubble bath from Old Navy
CoverGirl LineExact Liquid Liner
Lush Ultrabland Face Cleanser
CoverGirl TRUblend Minerals Powder Foundation
Kiss New Nude French Nails

Links

In The Valley of Elah
Dan In Real Life
Rent yourself the movie Once. And then go ahead and grab yourself the soundtrack.

Reality Check
Spain introduces a new way of sizing women’s clothing; the Design Piracy Prohibition Act.

Song of the Week: Falling Slowly from the Soundtrack to Once. Courtesy PMN.

Episode #96 – Clinique Lips, Benefit BADgal Lash, Burberry Beat and Deserving Thyme

Airdrie — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:31:06 +0000

Download the show

Download audio file (20080312-lipglossandlaptops-96.mp3)

This Week We Review:

Clinique Different Lipstick (Bronze Leaf)
Clinique Quickliner for Lips (Honey Stick)
Clinique Glosswear (Summershine)
Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss (Apricot)
Clinique Lash Power Mascara re-visited (Kerry Anne likes it!)
Benefit BADgal Lash Mascara
Deserving Thyme Aromatherapy and Spa Products. Wonderful!
Burberry The Beat (reviewed at Now Smell This, a great site)

Links:
Suki’s Hair Salon and Spa (in Vancouver)
Flaming June Day Spa (in Vancouver)
Alex Waterhouse-Hayward (Photographer)
Betty “Color for the hair down there”

Reality Check:
Adbusters article: The Conquest of Cool
And, Airdrie reads an article called “Bare Bones” by Emily Wierenga. (Available in Adbusters V16#2)

*** sign the online petition: Bring Back the Old Tampax Tampons***

Song of the Week:

Jimmy & The Rackets
“Baby Baby I Should Have Known” (mp3)
from “The Complete Sixties Collection”
(PInk DoGG)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Napster
Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon
Buy at GroupieTunes
Buy at mTraks Download
More On This Album

Help bring back the ‘old Tampax’

Airdrie — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:46:47 +0000

Sign the online petition.

Let’s get together, ladies, and put pressure on the company to switch back to the classic design of the Tampax Tampon.

Episode #95: Neutrogena Wave, Pantene Pro-V Extra Straight Hair and a “How-To” about False Eyelashes

Kerry Anne — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 06:02:38 +0000

Download the show

Download audio file (20080305-lipglossandlaptops-95.mp3)

This week we review:

Neutrogena Deep Clean Wave
Pantene Pro-V Extra Straight Hair Care Collection
Airdrie talks about applying false eyelashes using Ardell DuraLash and Duo Eyelash Adhesive (Dark Tone)
Lancome Star Bronzer

Air’s false lash look.
Links

Styledash
Burlesque Beauties
American International Industries (purveyors of many beauty products)
Gene Simmons Family Jewels on A&E

Reality Check

We talk about our friend Rebecca Bolwitt’s (aka Miss604) post, Censored. Rebecca writes about being called out by a fellow blogger for posting a sexy shot of herself with her iPhone. Rebecca has loads of geek cred, and was nominated this year as one of Wired’s Sexy Geeks of 2007. She muses about why some people have such a problem women being intellectual and sexy.

Song of the Week: A Laptop Like You by Jonathan Coulton

BBC Radio 4 Podcast talks about Sanitary Protection

Airdrie — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 05:31:36 +0000

Liz, a loyal listener from West Sussex, UK, has sent along this link to a “Women’s Hour” excerpt from BBC Radio 4. It appears that the new Tampax, complete with it’s bizarre skirt, has hit the shelves in the UK. Listen to this snippet, it’s great. Two women debate the need for various female sanitary products, and their wonderful British accents make “vaginal discharge” sound rather elegant.

Episode #94 – Nicole by OPI, Lash Power and Shag-Marry-Kill.

Kerry Anne — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 06:19:43 +0000

This week we review:

Clinique Lash Power Mascara
The claim:

One stroke and these pretty lashes last through rain, sweat, humidity, tears. Yet the formula removes easily with warm water. Unique brush reaches and beautifully lengthens even the tiniest lashes.

*Since this show was recorded, Airdrie has had failing results with this mascara. She wore it for a massage therapy appointment, and when she got up off the table, where she had been lying face down for an hour, her lashes were totally wrecked. The product does not smudge, as much as it does “flake.” Please do not buy this product. Flaking was also noted at work. It is not a miracle product that lasts 24hours. Overwhelmingly craptacular.

OPI Nicole Nail Polish (Nic’s Sticks)
Covergirl TruBlend Liquid Makeup (again)

Links

Benefit Cosmetics thrrrob – a “turned on” face powder
SparkPeople.com
Pure Nail Bar
MAC Pro Store NYC

Reality Check

We revisit Airdrie’s August 2007 post about the new “improved” Tampax, which we’ve been getting mail and comments about it since. As Kristin says, “It’s the devil’s handywork”.

Retraction:
The day after this show was recorded the Gene Simmons sex-tape scandal erupted, leaving Airdrie shocked and confused about her choice to Shag Gene in last week’s round of Shag-Marry-Kill. She would like to retract her choice: Marry Dr. House, Shag Chris Angel, and KILL Gene. So sad.

Music is “Woodstock” by Alice Smith, from the Podsafe Music Network.

Episode #93 – Deseo by Jennifer Lopez and MAC’s “Fafi” line

Kerry Anne — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:50:54 +0000

Download the show

Download audio file (20080220-lipglossandlaptops-93.mp3)

Congratulations to our MAC N Line winner, announced on this show!

This week we review:

Deseo

Jennifer Lopez has a stylish, more mature, new scent called Deseo. The bottle is designed to resemble a “diamond in the rough” and is beautiful. About the scent:

A floral woody scent.
Inspired by the smell and feel of the air during a midnight walk in
Jennifer’s flower garden — moments before a thunderstorm. The
scent of orange blossom, jasmine and mimosa mingles with cedar
wood and wet earth radiating energy and warmth.

A Radiant Top:
Watery Bamboo Leaves, Garden Yuzu, Sicilian Bergamot, Freesia

A Voluptuous Heart:
Star Jasmine, Pink Geranium Flower, Orange Blossom, French
Mimosa

A Natural Base:
Warm Amber, Oak moss, Sensual Musks, Creamy Sandalwood,
Atlas Cedar wood, Patchouli, Mineral Accord

On store shelves February 2008. Manufactured by Coty Prestige

Eau de Parfum spray 1.7 fl oz/50 mL $46.00
Eau de Parfum spray 3.4 fl oz/100 mL $56.00
Desirable Body Lotion 6.7 fl oz/200 mL $27.50
______________________________________________________________

What the heck is Azulene oil? Parissa Azulene Oil After Care
MAC Strobe Cream
MAC Fafi

Links

Gigi Azulene Wax
Shag, Marry, Kill
Hardy’s wine

Reality Check

Why aren’t more video games marketed toward women? Alice Taylor from Wonderland sounds off in her post about Ubisoft’s Imagine series for girls.
Do all games for girls have to be about shopping, babies, animals, fashion and Barbie dolls?

Song of the Week: “Carousel” by our friend Adam Woodall

Episode #92 Happy Valentine’s Day

Kerry Anne — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 04:34:35 +0000

Download the show
Download audio file (20080213-lipglossandlaptops-92.mp3)

This week we review:

Necco Sweethearts Fragrance Collection from Demeter Fragrance Library
Pure Divine Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
Dior Midnight Poison
Mitchum Smart Solid

Links

This American Life Podcast
Sex Drive Podcast also available in iTunes by subscription.
The Hawaii Chair:

Reality Check

Drug That Lengthens Lashes Sets Off Flutter from The Wall Street Journal

Song by Kimya Dawson

PostSecret-Valentine’s Day Edition

Kerry Anne — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 20:34:02 +0000

We’re both big fans of PostSecret, a site where thousands of people (180,000 so far) send in their secrets anonymously on postcards. Frank Warren, the creator of PostSecret, receives about 1000 postcards a week, and has published four PostSecret books. There is even a PostSecret art exhibition, currently at The Winnipeg Art Gallery until March 23, 2008.

If you want to send in your own secret, here’s how to mail in your own secrets.

Episode #91– The hot look for spring: nude!

Kerry Anne — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 06:21:58 +0000

Download the show
Download audio file (20080206-lipglossandlaptops-91.mp3)

This week we review:

Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect
MAC Cremestick Liner
Prescriptives The Illuminator
Covergirl Outlast All day Lipcolor

MAC N Collection

Enter our draw for a prize from MAC’s N Collection, including two Eye Shadows (Nanogold and Remotely Grey), two Tinted Lip Glass (3N and 4N) and a Cremestick Liner (Creamola).

Reality Check
This week’s reality check is a book review. Airdrie reads exerpts from the book Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of The Beauty Industry (copyright 2007) by Stacy Malkin. Stacy is the communications director of Health Care Without Harm and co-founder of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. We also talk about the Skin Deep Database. Listen to the show for and learn a little about Nanotechnology.

This week’s song is “Move On Up (Remastered)” by Curtis Mayfield

Going, going, gone!

Airdrie — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 01:33:15 +0000

If you listened to Episode #90, you heard that we gave away to the first five listeners who emailed us a full sized Cover Girl Outlast longlasting lip colour. Congratulations to the winners: Gina, Melissa, Sara, Lorena and Valerie!