Archive for the ‘Fabulous Finds’ Category

Product Review: Lily Organics Skincare

Tuesday, September 14th, 2010

A few weeks ago, I featured Lily Morgan as our Queen City Pretty. Lily is the Head Farm Hand and CEO of Lily Organics Skincare based in Colorado. I had the opportunity to test the products from Lily’s farm and they are AMAZING. 

Coming from a background of six generation farmers, Lily has the knowledge and experience to provide individuals a true natural beauty experience. Lily Organics Skincare is the first and only skincare company to become a USDA certified organic grower. 

It’s absolutely refreshing to know the products that are touching your face haven’t been sitting on shelves for months. They are 100% FRESH off the farm! There are never any synthetic chemicals added and the line is cruelty-free. All full size products are presented in GLASS bottles.   

This line is one of the most fabulous lines I’ve discovered recently.  I have really dry skin and I found that Lily Organics Moisturizing Cream solves this problem. Lily was right when she said this cream was formulated to end all dry skin problems. Love it!  

Organic_moisturizing_cream-tn 


  

   

Lily Organics and it’s founder, Lily Morgan, stand behind the product line by offering a 100% refund if you do not see skin improvements in 30 days. 

Lily Organics Skincare receives Pretty in the Queen City’s stamp of approval.  

“Quality comes from dew fresh ingredients from organic farms. Quality comes from the head, hearts and hands of people, like me and you. Quality is developed over several decades of love, heart, and hard work. Quality is classic. Quality is purity. Quality is honest. Quality is a gift from Mother Nature. ” ~Lily Morgan 

There is no denying, this line is definitely QUALITY.  

(click photo to learn more about Lily Morgan & Lily Organics Skincare) 

organic skin care 

(Editor’s Note: Compensation was not received for this review. These are my own opinions based on product samples provided by Lily Organics Skincare)

Crème Smooth Foundation:Laura Mercier

Tuesday, September 7th, 2010

The fabulous Laura Mercier has added a new foundation to her cosmetic line, Crème Smooth Foundation.

Creme_smooth_foundation 

(Photo by provided by Laura Mercier PR)

  

Known for best selling foundations, this is Laura’s first foundation in five years. She created this lightweight foundation to give you flawless skin without settling in for a caked-on finish.The formula works to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Crème Smooth Foundation is perfect for all skin types and is available in 12 shades so that each and every one of my Pretties can find the right shade for your skin tone.

Models_creme_smooth


(Photo provided by Laura Mercier PR)

Foundation Tip: As always, Laura recommends applying the foundation to your face with your fingertips or a cosmetics sponge.

I am a huge Laura Mercier fan so this will definitely be a new item in my make up bag!

Interested in this product or other Laura Mercier products?

Visit the Laura Mercier counter at Belk Cosmetics at Southpark Mall located at 4400 Sharon Rd.  Charlotte, NC

Are you a Pretty reader located in another state? That’s ok! Visit http://www.lauramercier.com

kaplanMD:Beautiful, Healthy, Radiant Skin~For Life

Thursday, September 2nd, 2010

Hello my Pretties!

I have found another fabulous skincare line that I am so excited to share with you, kaplanMD, created by Beverly Hills Dermatologist, Dr. Stuart Kaplan. I had the privilege of recently testing this line and I must say, no wonder stars such as Kate Beckinsale, Sienna Miller, Mariska Hargity, Minnie Driver, Anne Heche, Emmy Rossum and Aisha Tyler trust Dr. Kaplan and the kaplanMD brand. It is FABULOUS.

kaplanMD is the only skincare line formulated to focus on three types of anti-aging: time, environmental damage and natural hormonal progression. Each product includes kaplanMD‘s exclusive Phytogenic Triactive Complex.  This combination of Soy Isoflavones, Grapeseed Extract and Black Cohosh promises to firm your skin, protect against free-radicals and help reverse the sign of skin aging.

I tried the core skincare items as well as additional products from thekaplanMD line. It’s all fantastic but I want to focus on three specific products.

*kaplanMD Revitalizing Toner*

Revittonerkap

Dr. Kaplan created the Revitalizing Toner as part of the daily skincare routine. I am currently on medication that gives me menopausal symptoms so I definitely understand the frustrations of Hot Flashes among menopausal women. With that said,what I love about this product is you can spritz your face with this toner during a Hot Flash! The toner instantly cools and minimizes redness thanks to Licorice, Chamomile and Aloe Vera concentration. Not only will you revive your skin with this toner but it is great to have on hand during those unexpected and embarrassing Hot Flashes.

*kaplanMD Perfecting Serum*

Kaplanserum
 

According to Dr. Kaplan, his Perfecting Serum firms skin up to 60% in as little as two weeks. I have not used this product for that length of time but I will say within a couple of days, I noticed a more even skin tone and my skin felt so smooth after application. I would suggest using this serum right before your make up application. It’s a fabulous primer!

*kaplanMD Cell Renewing Microfoliant*

Kaplanmicrofoliant

This exfoliant immediately restores the glow to your face. The key ingredients of pineapple & papaya enzymes, Jojoba Beads and Date Seed Flower are combined to provide your skin nourishment. My skin is luminous thanks to Dr. Kaplan’s Cell Renewing Microfoliant.

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Dr. Stuart Kaplan is a Beverly Hills dermatologist and has been in private practice for over 25 years. After graduating New York University after only two and a half years, he went on to graduate from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, with honors. Dr. Kaplan has been recognized for his achievements by many organizations over the years and has been presented awards from the U.S. Congress, American Cancer Society, American Medical Association among many others.

After years of researching the cause of aging skin, Dr. Kaplan identified three types of skin aging. Rather than focus on one type, he created a line that treats all three.

Every kaplanMD product contains no less than 10 key ingredients that delivers a balanced diet to your skin with each application.

Pretty in the Queen City can be added to the list of kaplanMD followers. kaplanMD receives our stamp of approval!

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Interested in learning more about Dr. Kaplan and kaplanMD?

Visit their website at -> http://www.kaplanmd.com

(Editor’s Note: Compensation was not received for this review. These are my own opinions based on product samples provided by kaplanMD)

HydroPeptide:Scientific Beauty Made Simple

Sunday, August 29th, 2010

I have a FABULOUS new product line to introduce to you. As you know, I review many skincare lines and it’s very rare to try an anti-aging product and receive immediate results. I  am absolutely thrilled to say, it exists!

I know, I know…..you are saying to yourself “she’s not old enough for anti aging products” Well…I HOPE that’s what you are saying to yourself. haha. In any case, I do have dry and uneven skin tones and feel it’s important to take care of your skin no matter how old you are and I have found a product that WORKS. 

HydroPeptide was created in 2004 by Louise Peck, PhD. It became one of the first skin care companies to incorporate peptides into every product. I feel the need to go into further detail on exactly what a “peptide” is. (Hey, even I had to research it further!)  According to Justin Dotterweich, PR director of Hydropeptide, Peptides are small protein fragments that nourish, repair and send neural messages. Layman’s terms:it helps relax deep wrinkles. For those of you who love injectables, say good bye to the needles and hello to a product line that is based around science AND nature.

Hydropeptide

As I have only used sample size products thus far, I do not know the long term effects. Less than a week ago, I began using HydroPeptide’s Anti-Wrinkle Exfoliating Cleanser and Anti-Wrinkle Brightening Toner. Upon the first use, I immediately saw a more clear complexion. My face was glowing! (in a good way) My skin was smooth, beautiful and refreshed. I also used the Eye Anti-Wrinkle Dark Circle Concentrate. Since a young age, I have always had visible dark circles under my eyes. I noticed a slight difference immediately and expect even more improvement as I continue to use the product.  There are other products in the HydroPeptide line that I look forward to trying, especially the Anti-Wrinkle Polish & Plump Peel and the Instant Peptide Miracle Mask. 

HydroPeptide recently has been seen in publications such as Fitness Magazine, Life & Style Magazine, American Spa, DaySpa, Skin Inc and is the winner of many 2009 and 2010 beauty awards from DaySpa, Fitness and Prevention.

Interested in learning more about HydroPeptide?

Visit their website at -> http://www.hydropeptide.com

(Editor’s Note: Compensation was not received for this review. These are my own opinions based on product samples provided by HydroPeptide.)

FusionSouth

Sunday, August 29th, 2010

(This is the final post featuring our fabulous vendors that will be present at our Beauty Benefit for the Gulf. Each vendor has been hand selected by PrettyCity, has a love for overall wellness among our community and best of all ARE ALL LOCALS. A big shout out to Belk Cosmetics at Southpark Mall for allowing these three locals businesses to join with them to raise awareness and funds for what is now the worst environmental disaster in America’s history. )

FusionSouth is the premier mobile fitness firm in Charlotte. No matter your health and fitness needs, FusionSouth works one on one with each client to determine their specific goals. So, whether you are a 15 year old athlete or a 55 year old individual seeking to improve overall wellness, FusionSouth will never turn away someone wanting to improve their lifestyle. 

Are you uncomfortable attending fitness classes? Do you often feel everyone is staring and judging you at the gym yet you want to take a stand and finally get in shape? If you answered yes, then FusionSouth is definitely for you. You will be trained where YOU feel comfortable. If you prefer the park, a trail, stadium stairs, pool or even your own home; FusionSouth is committed to being a convenient yet effective option for changing your life!

$1.00 from every single training session in 2010 goes to the Ada Jenkins Center.

“For more than a decade in its current form, the Ada Jenkins Center has been on a mission to improve the quality of life for the residents of Lake Norman-area communities through the integrated delivery of health, education, and human services. For more information on the Ada Jenkins Center, check out their website.”

Bobbydemuro
( Bobby Demuro:Founder of FusionSouth)

Founder,Bobby Demuro, is no stranger to the world of fitness. As a former professional baseball player, he understands what it takes to reach your desired level of fitness. During the offseason, Bobby gained experience as a personal trainer. It was at that point, he realized he wanted to make fitness his life.

A graduate of Davidson College, Bobby has a degree in Religion with a concentration in Education. In addition, he is a member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) .

Bobby is a regular contributor to many local media outlets including Carolina Health & Fitness Magazine, CLTBuzz.com,  and WBTV News. Bobby is also the Executive Director of No Fizz Charlotte, a local non profit organization that encourages and educates the importance of healthy hydration.

FusionSouth (and Bobby Demuro) will be present at our Sept 1st Beauty Bash, to offer encouragement, fitness and wellness advice.

You may learn more about FusionSouth at http://www.fusionsouth.com

Additional Contact Info:

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Healing Hands Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic

Saturday, August 28th, 2010

(This is the second of three posts featuring our fabulous vendors that will be present at our Beauty Benefit for the Gulf. Each vendor has been hand selected by PrettyCity, has a love for overall wellness among our community and best of all ARE ALL LOCALS. A big shout out to Belk Cosmetics at Southpark Mall for allowing these three locals businesses to join with them to raise awareness and funds for what is now the worst environmental disaster in America’s history. )

After receiving benefits of Chinese Medicine as a teenager, Andi Perullo made it her goal to make a life long career out of sharing what she experienced with the world. A graduate of the College of Charleston and the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, Andi is Board Certified in Acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine.

Her academic success led to multiple trips worldwide to locations such as China and South Africa. With these trips, she was presented as a United States Medical Delegate. Andi chooses to focus on auto immune disorders and strives towards helping as many as she can thru the power of Chinese Medicine. In addition to the above successes, Andi is also fluent in Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, and German.

Andiperullo
(Andi Perullo:Owner of Healing Hands Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic)

Andi now resides in Charlotte, NC and is the owner if Healing Hands Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic located at The EAST|WEST Center for Wellness.

Andi will be on hand at our Sept 1st Beauty Bash , to offer her insight on the Benefits of Chinese Medicine and how it can improve your overall wellness.

You may learn more about Andi and her Charlotte practice at http://www.theeastwestcenter.com

Additional Contact Info:

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The EAST|WEST Center for Wellness
218 East Tremont Avenue, Suite C
Charlotte, North Carolina 28203

Fabulous Friday:ProWhite Teeth

Friday, August 27th, 2010

Happy Friday to all of my Pretty readers!!!

As you all know, I absolutely love ProWhite Teeth (note:I am not paid to say that. I REALLY DO love their products.lol)  

PW_Titanium

I have been using ProWhite for four years now! I always see immediate AND longer lasting results than over the counter whitening systems. Not to mention, ProWhite is approximately $300 less than what you’ll spend at the dentist!

Read the rest of my recent review here.

The FABULOUS people over at ProWhite are offering MY readers a FANTASTIC discount on their products!!!!!

Visit http://www.prowhiteteeth.com , choose any product you desire , use the code “PrettyCity” and receive 30% OFF!!!!!!!!

Finally, I will be offering an instructional video blog in the coming weeks and will teach you HOW to use ProWhite so that you may get the most effective results. 

Love coffee and wine? That’s ok! I’m gonna help you keep a bright smile and best of all, you don’t have to pay full prices! Take advantage of this offer while you still can!!!

Excited yet?? I am!

Natural Luxe

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

(This is the first of three posts featuring our fabulous vendors that will be present at our Beauty Benefit for the Gulf. Each vendor has been hand selected by PrettyCity, has a love for overall wellness among our community and best of all ARE ALL LOCALS. A big shout out to Belk Cosmetics at Southpark Mall for allowing these three locals businesses to join with them to raise awareness and funds for what is now the worst environmental disaster in America’s history. )

Natural Luxe is an eco-chic boutique located in NoDa (For those unfamiliar with Charlotte, NoDa is Charlotte’s historic arts district and home to many music venues, art galleries and fabulous boutiques such as Natural Luxe)

Jen Branham, founder of Natural Luxe, truly cares about our community and the environment . Specializing in “gifts that are good to give, good for you and good for the environment”, Jen carries a fabulous selection of jewelry, natural body care, handbags, soy candles and more! Best of all, EVERYTHING is eco-friendly. Natural Luxe is the ONLY certified Green retail store in Charlotte, certified by Green America

Jenbranham
( Jen Branham:Owner of Natural Luxe)

Natural Luxe (and Jen) will be present at our Sept 1st Beauty Benefit. I am SO excited that she will be providing guests immediate access to Yogoco Yoga Bags AND Eco-Cuffs (a beautiful piece of wood jewelry that is eco-friendly AND is made right here in Charlotte!!) Natural Luxe will be donating a portion of their sales at our Benefit to Earthshare’s Gulf Coast Restoration Fund.

 

Come see Natural Luxe on Sept 1st at our Beauty Bash and also stop by their FABULOUS boutique.

The Boulevard at NoDa
453 E 36th Street, Charlotte, NC
http://www.blvdnoda.com
877-290-1596

I also encourage all of my Pretty readers to take a moment and vote for Natural Luxe  :  2010 Startup Nation (Leading Moms in Business Competition)

Don’t live in Charlotte?? THAT’S OK.

Visit Natural Luxe on the WEB :

http://www.naturalluxe.com

And of course find them on Twitter AND FACEBOOK!

 Twitter_followFacebook_join

 
 
 

Clinique:Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Forget spending thousands on laser treatments, there is a new laser in town!

Clinique’s Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector is a cocktail of peptides, vitamins, and antioxidant pomegranate that offers the same results as an in-office treatment. This serum should be used twice a day. Two-three drops of this serum is more than enough to cover your face AND eye area.

One bottle typically lasts about four weeks. Most clients notice an improved radiance and texture in the skin after one month of use. After the third month of use, a significant decrease in lines will be noticed. Ok, ladies…who DOESN’T want to see a decrease in lines. I’ll take a bottle, thank you!

Clinique_Repairwear

Repairwear Laser Focus is priced at $44.50 per 1 oz and should last approximately four weeks. Clients will receive 63% of the benefits of a fraxel laser procedure performed by a dermatologist. These procedures are usually priced around $2,300. How’s that for a beauty saver? Then you have a few extra dollars to spend on a nice pair of shoes! Right?!

Repairwear Laser Focus has recently been recognized by many mainstream beauty outlets including O, The Oprah Magazine , Glamour , Lucky , Redbook as well as a 2-page piece in Cosmetic World , a trade publication. SHE, a British magazine, also presented a full page feature on Repairwear in the September 2010 issue.

Start the de-aging process TODAY.

Interested in purchasing this hot new product???

Visit the Clinique counter at Belk Cosmetics at Southpark Mall located at 4400 Sharon Rd.  Charlotte, NC

Not located in Charlotte? Visit http://www.clinique.com

Exciting Things to Come!

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010

I hope all of my Pretty readers are having a fabulous week thus far. I have some exciting things happening with Pretty in the Queen City and I just wanted to give you a sneak peak of what’s to come!

In the weeks and months to come, I am bringing you reviews of brand new and hard-to-find product lines! Within the past week, I have spoken to at least 10 companies nationwide that are so excited to share their lines with my readers! I will be reviewing each line and recommending my favorites and will also provide you access to purchase these products as they are not available at your local beauty store. I will NOT recommend a product that I do not believe in 100%. I receive no compensation for my reviews other than products to sample. If I am ever paid for a review, I will make you aware of that post.

I am on a mission to find the best of the best products and during my research, I have come across so many product lines that are absolutely AMAZING and deserve a little attention ;)

Finally, I have landed an interview with Lead Farm Hand and CEO of Lily Organics Skincare, Lily Morgan. The first and ONLY skincare company to be a U.S.D.A certified organic grower (IN THE WORLD!) She grows her own ingredients, products are made fresh WEEKLY, no synthetic chemicals and full size bottles of her product are all in glass bottles! Lily says this on her website

Quality is Ingredients! There is nothing else in that little bottle that can actually improve your skin tone. Not the packaging, not the latest fad, and certainly not the 14 year old models designed to sell 40- 50 year old women products.

Quality comes from dew fresh ingredients from organic farms. Quality comes from the head, hearts and hands of people, like me and you. Quality is developed over several decades of love, heart, and hard work. Quality is classic. Quality is purity. Quality is honest. Quality is a gift from Mother Nature.

That is why we call our products, “Dew Fresh” – Skin Care products. Just like nature creates morning dew, our products are crafted to make your skin fresh and healthy as the morning dew.

No synthetic chemicals – Ever!”

I am SO impressed by her. So stay tuned for a review of Lily Organics Skincare AND an interview with the founder of this fabulous business.

xoxo