The Friday Forum - November 30

The birds aren't hungry yet. They will be when it gets cold. The robins will come along and strip the hollies bare of berries. I wish people would always consider feeding and sheltering wildlife when they select trees and shrubs. Hollies are a great choice because of the winter sustenance they provide. They shelter too; the cardinals hang out in my hollies.

Discounts! Do discounts entice you to spend money to save money? I'll admit that I'm a sucker for a discount. Friend & Family, Cyber Monday - you name it - offer me a discount, and I'm likely to purchase something I wouldn't have otherwise. Budget? What budget?

When NARS had its Friends & Family sale, I went through the site like an athlete on steroids. I filled my cart. I even got out of bed shortly after midnight shortly after the sale started to checkout and pay. Is that crazy? Probably. Yesterday I got my box, after it was held hostage by FedEx for a day, and opened it with glee. I'm glad NARS enticed me with a discount.

I do differentiate discounts offers me real value vs perceived value. I hit the stop button in my head this week when a discount simply gave me free shipping. This week, I closed my shopping cart when I realized that the 25% discount simply cut the shipping charge in half. Suddenly, that cart didn't look like such a good deal. What did I realize? A discount must be significant, and it has to come along with free shipping. Otherwise, it's not what it seems.

How about you? Do discount offers entice you to buy things you might not have purchased at full price? I'd love to take an informal poll in the comments. Do we represent the "average" customer?

Let's talk about your week of beauty. It's time for the Friday Forum, our open chat. I love this part of our week. Have you selected your favorite holiday collection - and purchased a few new treasures? What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.

Don't forget there are two giveaway contests this week.

• The Sephora Favorites Glitz & Glam Party Sampler here; and
• The Laura Mercier Flawless Facebook here.

The deadline for both contests is midnight tomorrow, Saturday, December 1. Don't forget to enter.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Bobbi Brown Kohl Cake Liner

I went to Nordstrom to get help from Diron Carr, Bobbi Brown counter manager. I couldn't decide whether to purchase Bobbi Brown's new Kohl Eyeliner Pencil or her Kohl Cake Liner ($22). They are both limited editions, but I only wanted one. How many black eyeliners can I use?

Kohl Cake Liner was inspired by old-school cake eyeliner. This rich powder formula can be applied dry or damp to create different takes on the smoky eye. Intensely pigmented and long-lasting, it goes on silky-smooth without flaking. Created just for Bobbi's Choose Your Black Collection, this limited-edition shade is yet another way to create dark and sexy eyes - or in my case, perfectly office-friendly eyes.

I asked Diron which of the two new liners he preferred. I wasn't at all surprised when he recommended the cake liner. It's a makeup artist's dream. I use it dry, and it provides a beautiful charcoal line that's perfect for a fair-skinned blonde. Dampen your brush, and you can create a intense black line. It's your choice.

I wondered where that little clear plastic protector went. If you look at my photo directly above, you can see that it's stuck to the mirror in the little compact.

Kohl Cake Liner can be used wet or dry. For a dry application, use the Smokey Eye Liner Brush (sold separately). Apply along the upper or lower lash lines for a beautiful, smoky look. For a wet application, use a damp Eye Liner Brush, Eye Definer Brush, or Cream Shadow Brush. Apply all over the eyelid as eye shadow or just along the lash line. I used one of Bobbi's liner brushes to apply the liner to my arm, drawing a thick line to show you the color when applied dry. I took my photo in afternoon sun.

As you can see, this liner when used dry is a fabulous charcoal grey liner for palefaces like me. I drew a thick lines at the top of my arm and a thinner line below for this photo, but you can draw a very thin line at the base of your lashes (as I like to do) very easily with this liner. You can also use it dry on the lower lash line for a bit of definition. The control is in your hands.

I didn't have time to take photos of a damp (wet) application, but I assure you the color intensifies depending on how much water you use. This liner gives you choices. I love it. Diron was right. Bobbi Brown's Kohl Cake Liner is a keeper. Even though the compact is relatively small, this liner will last forever. It's a great buy.

You can find it wherever you buy Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. I purchased mine at Nordstrom

Photo at top courtesy of Bobbi Brown; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Hanae Mori Eau de Collection No. 7

Think delectable, and you'll have a mental image of No. 7, the latest member of Hanae Mori's Eau de Collection ($95). Like her distinct designs that merge Eastern and Western elements, fashion designer Hanae Mori's signature scents are exceptional.

Mori's first scent, and her most well-known, was Butterfly, created in the 1990s. It is a complex blend of florals, fruits, and woods. I do not own it, but I plan to rectify that soon. Butterfly arrives in a jubilant flutter of wild strawberries, sweet blackberries, blackcurrant, and bilberries. Its heart opens in a melange of lush Bulgarian rose, ylang-ylang, lilting jasmine, and French peony. Butterfly's lasting impression is the deep warmth of rosewood, gentle almond wood, rich sandalwood, and French cedar. Since the debut of Butterfly, every elegant fragrance in Mori's collection has been a work of art - from the bottle to the scent. I got distracted by Butterfly. Today I want you to know how enticing No. 7 is.

The Hanae Mori Eau de Collection series of limited-edition, numbered fragrances started with Hanae Mori No. 1 and skipped No. 5 (which has left me with all kinds of theories, some of which lead to Brad Pitt). These fragrances have all been produced in France is from alternative energy sources, including sun and wind power. Their harmony with the natural world makes them special to me. Although I've never written about them, I have two: No. 3 (a fruity floral) and No. 6 (a green floral). No. 7 was introduced in 2012, and it's a fragrance you must experience.

This luscious creation was inspired by Paris desserts and confections and the pleasing, indulgent satisfaction they provide. Think macaroon. Think fruit tarte. Think eclair. The aroma of fresh fruit, a daring hint of French pastry, and the charm of exotic flowers comprise Hanae Mori Eau de Collection No. 7, the last in her Collection series, and a guilt-free gourmand indulgence every woman will savor. Délicieux!

The notes will leave you salivating. If you are anything like me, you won't be able to resist.

• The top note is Pomelo, a lively citrus dessert fruit native to south Asia, topped with a bright burst of raspberry and just a hint of orange marmalade.
• The middle notes are pink peony; soothing Sambac jasmine from India; and the exotic plumeria, a flowering plant from Tahiti.
• The base notes are heavenly musk, rich sandalwood from India, and a light-touch of vanilla frosting, as enticing as the frosting on a cupcake or a champagne glass of vanilla ice cream.

In addition to its fragrance, Hanae Mori Eau de Collection No. 7 is delightfully pink and pretty with a beautiful mission. It honors breast cancer awareness with a swatch of pink organza inside its crystal cap. Part of proceeds from United States sales of the fragrance will benefit the National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund - another reason to check it out.

I have a vision of all of Hanae Mori's fragrances displayed together on a shelf in my dark closet - the chilly one where I keep coveted perfume bottles. Open it, turn on the light, and voila! A colored confection of elegant bottles and irresistible fragrances, beckoning me each morning, "Wear me!"

Hanae Mori Parfums are available at www.hanaemoriparfums.com, Nordstrom,  Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sephora, Macy's, select Lord & Taylor stores, and regional chains Dillard's, Von Maur, and Halls. In Canada, Hanae Mori Perfumes can be found at Holt Renfrew. I remember one weekend not too long ago when No. 7 was the featured giveaway scent at Nordstrom. Did you get a sample?

Photos courtesy of Hanae Mori Parfums

Chantecaille Le Must Have Set

Forget its whimsical, somewhat silly Frenglish name. Chantecaille's Le Must Have Set ($98, but worth $117) deserves serious consideration.

This limited-edition kit of Chantecaille's best-selling products will instantly enhance your natural beauty. What's in it? The chic metallic faux-croc bag includes full-sizes of these products.

• Faux Cils Mascara, the ultra-conditioning formula that instantly lengthens, thickens, and plumps lashes for a super-dynamic, eye-opening effect.
• Gel Liner in Hermatite, the first long-wearing gel eyeliner housed in a wooden pencil. the dual-effect brush can be used to create a precisely defined eye or a sultry, smoky look. You can see swatches here.
• Lucky Brilliant Gloss hydrates the lips, leaving them soft, supple, and shiny. Chantecaille's never-sticky formula contains microspheres of vegetal polysaccharides to gently plump the lips.
• Rose Eye Makeup Remover gently dissolves all types of makeup while protecting, brightening, and hydrating the eye area. Its ingredients are 82% botanical.

Here's a swatch of Lucky Brilliant Gloss.This pastel peachy pink lip gloss is infused with tiny gold sparkles that warm it and give it a liveliness that's seriously stunning.

If you could bare to give this set away, it would make a gorgeous holiday gift. I'm keeping mine.

You can purchase Le Must Have Set at Chantecaille's Web site and all Chantecaille counters, including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, and their Web sites.

Photo at top courtesy of Chantecaille; other photo by Best Things in Beauty

Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quad in Cosmic Bliss

Cosmic Bliss is the second of the two Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quads ($68) I ordered. The photo of Cosmic Bliss at Sephora was no better than that of Sun and Stars. I almost skipped these basics based on the promotional photos.

I'm happy to have Cosmic Bliss. Eileen selected well when she chose it - probably about the same time I ordered my palettes sight unseen.

My photo directly above was taken in full sun, and there's a considerable difference between it, which is slightly too light, and Sephora's photo, which is way too dark. I won't be surprised if neither inspire you.

As I mentioned earlier today, these new eye shadow quads are described as rich prisms of multidimensional color. "With four perfectly paired shades, this collection of textures ranging from soft matte to high pearl deliver the ultimate depth and dimension" Knowing that Edward Bess has created gorgeous eye colors in the past, colors that provide an elegant, ladylike, look, I had faith.

I took my swatch photos in full, morning sun. I think the swatch photos are accurate in showing the colors on my skin. I applied the shades to my arm using a sponge-tipped applicator, and I swatched from left to right in the palette in top to bottom order on my arm.

The matte base shade shown at the top of my arm is similar to the shade in Sun and Stars, but it's cooler. I like it the best of the two. The other three shades in Cosmic Bliss are stunning neutrals. I'm very pleased with the shimmering taupe, the mauve-toned taupe, and the shimmering chocolate brown. This palette excites me.

I have a bias toward shadows with shimmer. I like the Edward Bess shimmer because it's age-appropriate for me. It imparts an elegant eye look - one that compliments my eyes, rather than drawing compliments for my makeup. I'd recommend this palette over Sun and Stars. The third, Over the Moon, looks too lavender for my tastes. Still, who knows given the poor color renditions in the promotional photos?

You can find the new Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quads at Sephora and at Edward Bess counters at Bergdorf Goodman and select (very select) Neiman Marcus stores.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quad in Sun and Stars

When I first saw the photos of the three new Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quads ($68), I was uninspired. Not knowing whether the photos were bad or the palette were boring, I timidly ordered two. I'm pleased to report that the Sephora photos were  "off."

These new eye shadow quads are described as rich prisms of multidimensional color. "With four perfectly paired shades, this collection of textures ranging from soft matte to high pearl deliver the ultimate depth and dimension" Knowing that Edward Bess has created gorgeous eye colors in the past, colors that provide an elegant, ladylike, look, I had faith.

In this feature, we'll look at Sun and Stars (#01). With luck and continued sunshine, I'll feature Cosmic Bliss this afternoon.

My photos aren't much better than Sephora's. I took them in full, morning sun, which washed out some of the life of the shades in the compact. At least the swatch photos are accurate in showing the colors on my skin. I applied the shades to my arm using a sponge-tipped applicator, and I swatched from left to right in the palette in top to bottom order on my arm.

The base shade at the top of my arm coordinates well with the other shades. It's a very warm beige and much darker on my skin than it looks in the compact. The bronze offers a subtle shimmer that has that slight orange hue that makes blue eyes pop. The grey-tauple also shimmers. It's my favorite shade in the palette.

The charcoal is charcoal. It had a medium intensity that makes it dark enough to use as an eyeliner. On my skin, that's about its only use since I'm not big on the smoky eye look.

Will Sun and Stars set the world on fire for its originality, fabulousness, or glam factor? In my opinion, no. It's a workhorse quad, but hardly one that makes me draw in my breath and think of the wonders of makeup. Is it nice? Yes. Am I glad I ordered it? A qualified yes - only because it duplicates many shades I already have. Is it my favorite of the two I ordered? No.

You can find the new Edward Bess Prismette Eyeshadow Quads at Sephora and at Edward Bess counters at Bergdorf Goodman and select (very select) Neiman Marcus stores.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Barrett Beauty Collection Kaleidoscope Face Kit

While Dustin Lujan was unearthing buried treasure at the John Barrett Salon last week, he found some unsold Le Métier de Beauté Barrett Beauty Collection Kaleidoscope Face Kits ($95). Although the Barrett Beauty Collection is predominantly composed with classics from Le Métier de Beauté, it's a perfect Kaleidoscope for someone who wants a kit made of customer favorites.

You know I had to order one! The top level is the world-famous Refresh Eye Brightening and Setting Powder - something everyone should own and use. Refresh is a versatile product that gives a clean start to any eye look. It provides a healthy, bright canvass for any look you wish to create.

• Lightweight powder sets concealer and illuminates the eye area for a radiant, smooth, matte finish.
• Creates perfect upper lid canvas for eye shadow. Brightens area under the eyes.
• Micronized pigments will not settle in fine lines or accentuate shadows.
• Absorbs excess oils to create perfect canvas for makeup application.
• Provides crease resistant, long-wearing coverage.
• Suitable for all skin types.

The brown True Color Eye Shadow is Jojo. Everyone likes Jojo. As The Non-Blonde said, "Jojo is a perfect goes-with-everything neutral, so it might be time to give it the stage. Jojo is a warm sand color of medium intensity and a shimmery finish. It has a beautiful almost rosy cast that changes with the light and gives life and brightness to the eye area."

The Radiance Powder Rouge is Echo, a universally flattering blush shade with a hint of warmth. The Lip Crème on the bottom level is Barrett Beauty Peaches, clearly an exclusive to the salon.

This palette reminds me of the Flawless Kaleidoscope Face Kit because it offers colors everyone can wear. I took swatch photos in full, but very late afternoon sun - not ideal because it gives a very warm, sunset glow to everything, including my skin. I swatched all shades with a sponge-tipped applicator, presenting them top to bottom on my arm in the same order of the Kaleidoscope levels.

Refresh, as you can see, is flesh-toned. Jojo is a beautiful, shimmering bronze-brown that will light up anyone's look. Echo, applied very heavily here, is a beautiful warm shade that works on all skin tones. The light golden peach Barrett Beauty Peaches Lip Crème, perfects the look.

The Barrett Beauty Collection is perfect for travelers who don't want to carry a whole makeup bag. Just add foundation, mascara, and possibly eyeliner, and you'll have the essentials for an everyday look. It's also nice for those of us who stay put. It's a reach-for Kaleidoscope, one that could become a staple of your out-the-door, off-to-work look.

There may be a few of these Kaleidoscopes left at the John Barrett Salon. Give them a call at (212) 872-2714 to see if Dustin's found treasures are still available.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Laura Mercier Mini Lip Glacé Collection for Holiday 2012

Every year, Laura Mercier creates a limited-edition Mini Lip Glacé Collection ($38) for the holidays, and every year I purchase one - sometimes two. They are a nice buy, possibly a $64 value as described at Sephora. I'm never sure how they calculate those values. No matter. The set is fabulous.

This year's set of four high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip glosses offers rich, long-lasting color and brilliant shine for creating the appearance of fuller lips.

This set features a sampler of four bestselling shades to give your lips some extra holiday sparkle, gloss, and shine - a bit of lip luxury. Wear the shades solo for a soft-shimmer tint, mix them together to create your own personal shade, or layer one with with your favorite lipstick. You'll find these little wonders very satisfactory.

The set contains four mini Lip Glacés in Blush, Baby Doll, Rose, and Bare Beige. Here's a close-up taken at my house in full sun. The swatch photos were taken at the same time in the same order.

I tried to get one full-on sunshine photo (below) and one turned slightly at an angle to the sun to show how shiny these lovely colors are without help from the sun (above).

There isn't a discardable shade in this set. From peach to warm pink, rose pink to golden beige, these are every-woman shades in a set that was carefully edited to appeal to all of us.

I purchased my set at Sephora, where it is said to be exclusive. You can also find other Mini Lip Glacé Collections at Laura Mercier's Web site and store counters. Make sure to give them a look-see.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Barrett Beauty Lip Crème

The John Barrett Salon is located at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City. Last week, my wonderful friend Dustin Lujan was at the salon representing Le Métier de Beauté. Dustin is always looking for buried treasure. Sure enough, he found a stash of exclusive products that hadn't sold. He posted a few photos on Facebook, and I called him faster than you can say "Dustin."

One was this pretty Lip Crème named for John Barrett, world-famous hair stylist who knows quality makeup when he sees it. Some of you may know his connection to Le Métier de Beauté through the exclusive Nail Lacquer shades sold at his salon. I had no idea he had an exclusive Lip Crème.

Dustin described it for me, and I ordered it right away, along with a Kaleidoscope I'll show you as soon as I can get decent swatch photos. Yesterday was a washout for sunshine, even though we had been promised all-day full sun.

I was able to sneak in gloss photos, which I took in almost full sun. Late morning, I noticed sunshine and darted outside. The sun was peeking from behind the rolling clouds, and I got three momentary opportunities to snap photos. That was all it took.

Barrett Beauty is a very light peach. It has sparkles galore, giving it more punch than it has from its color. Le Métier de Beauté's Lip Crème is a hybrid between lip gloss and lipstick, combining chic color, intense emollients, and antioxidants to soothe and nourish. The long-lasting color offers plenty of shine, with a lacquer-sheen finish. The creamy texture glides on easily and stays put for a decent duration.

While Barrett Beauty won't set the world on fire for originality (few lip colors can), it's a beautiful shade that all Le Métier de Beauté collectors should consider. Dustin found other treasures as he checked out what was available at John Barrett. Give the salon a call at (212) 872-2714 for more information on Kaleidoscopes, lip kits (the credit-card-sized ones), and other finds.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sephora Favorites Glitz & Glam Party Sampler Giveaway Contest

This contest has ended. Congratulations to MamaVal!

Another dazzling makeup collection, Sephora's Glitz & Glam Party Sampler ($45) features nine of Sephora’s most glittering products, along with a chic metallic clutch. I have one to give away, so I made it the Best Things in Beauty Cyber Monday contest.

Perfect for the holidays, this kit has a gorgeous assortment of festive products to create any party-ready look, including three full-size products. Take it all anywhere you go in the included distressed metallic zippered clutch.

What comes in the set?

• 0.09 oz Stila Duo Shimmer Powder in Kitten
• 0.018 oz Laura Mercier Baked Eye Color - Wet/Dry in Black Karat
• 0.02 oz bareMinerals Eyecolor in Good Fortune
• 0.125 oz SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour in Looks Like Rain Dear
• 0.11 oz Josie Maran GOGO Instant Natural Volume Argan Mascara in Black
• 1 oz NARS Body Glow
• 0.17 oz Lorac 3D Liquid Lustre Gold
• 0.15 oz Bare Escentuals Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Trail Blazer
• 0.01 oz Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Starfish 

This contest will run along with the Laura Mercier Flawless Face Book posted earlier. How can you enter to win this giveaway contest (technically a sweepstakes)? Just leave a comment on this feature (not in another BTiB post). After you comment here, feel free to send me an e-mail at bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com (the contest address, not my "personal" e-mail) and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing an e-mail address you care about on a blog, so feel free to follow this step (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment). Please make sure I have your e-mail. If I can't notify you, you can't win - even if your number is drawn. I can't believe the number of winners I haven't been able to find in the past.

You can earn extra entries. Follow this blog (through an e-mail subscription, GFC, or though one of the many Google readers - see sidebar at right) to earn a second entry. If you are a follower, it would help me tally entries if you tell me in your comment how you follow. You don't have to follow to enter. I want everyone to have a chance, but I also want to reward my followers. I must be able to track this entry.

You can earn a third entry by tweeting this contest. You must include "@BTiBeauty" (without the quotes) and the contest title in your tweet. Remember, tweet the contest title - if you don't, that entry won't count. I will tweet the contest early this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry - if that's easier.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, December 1, at midnight. The next morning, I will use a random number generator (random.org) to select the winner. I will e-mail the winner on Sunday morning. The winner will have 48 hours to reply to my message and provide a shipping address. After 48 hours, the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. Make sure to check your e-mail - and look in your spam folder - when the contest ends.

This contest is open to anyone anywhere. Here are the terms. I will carefully pack and ship the prize (as I always do). I cannot insure the prize for overseas shipment - it's amazingly expensive to do so because of the way I have to send insured mail. If it's lost or stolen in transit, I may not be able to replace it with another prize just like it. I'll do my best on this end; let's see if your mail service does right by you on the other end if we have an overseas winner.

The winner must be able to provide me with a "mailable address," meaning the U.S. Post Office recognizes it or its street, province, and other "elements" the way the winner provides them. I've had some trouble with both U.S. and international addresses lately.

For all the legalese related to this contest, please see the Contests/Sweepstakes page at the top of the blog. Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

BECCA Mineral Blush in Flowerchild

It had been a very long time since I had used a BECCA product. I was quite a fan at one point in my life. Then I purchased something - now I don't remember what - that  smelled like a raccoon in heat. I returned it to Sephora. That one product soured me on BECCA.

Now, after reading about BECCA's new business plan and marketing strategy (think skin), I was game for trying again, assuming that the smelly product had to be history by now. During Sephora's recent V.I.B. sale, I browsed for pretties and settled on BECCA's new Mineral  Blush ($32) in Flowerchild. I was shopping online, and even though other shades looked like they might be equally nice, I went with the safe warm pink. I could not be more pleased. Plus, it has no detectable scent!

Mineral Blush is a delicate powder blush infused with micro-fine minerals that deliver a soft glow. Impart a soft halo of color onto the apples of your cheeks with this delicate powder that subtly reflects the light and casts a luminous glow. Formulated with a natural mineral complex and infused with antioxidant vitamins A, E, and C, this blush nourishes and conditions skin for a smooth, illuminated complexion. 

Add to BECCA's description the fact that the finish this blush leaves on the skin is darn near perfect - a sheen that perks up your cheeks and makes you look happy. BECCA says it's fun to layer Mineral Blush over Beach Tint, so there may be another BECCA purchase in my immediate future.

I took my swatch photos in full sun, swatching heavily at the top of my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator and applying the larger swatch below with a kabuki brush. Isn't the color beautiful?

The beautiful sheen provides no hint of sparkles, so it's great for office wear/daytime. Did I mention the color? This blush is so flattering, I started wearing it to work the moment I photographed it. Perhaps someone thought of me as a flower child. I belong to the right era.

I did notice when I ordered, remembering that raccoon, that BECCA uses no parabens or synthetic fragrances in this blush, and it's also free of alcohol, oil, chemical dyes, and talc. You can see the ingredients at this link.

I think I need to try Sweetpea next. I'm having trouble choosing a shade of Beach Tint using the online swatches, and I know I love the Mineral Blush.You can purchase BECCA Mineral Blush at Sephora, where I purchased mine, or at BECCA's Web site.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Laura Mercier The Flawless Face Book Giveaway Contest

Laura Mercier's The Flawless Face Book Portable Complexion Palette ($58) is a portable complexion palette for a flawless face. For the first time, Laura Mercier has provided her Flawless Face essentials in one portable, take-everywhere complexion palette.

This chic, slim-line compact features Tinted Moisturizer Crème Compact SPF 20, plus two targeted concealers, Secret Concealer for undereye coverage/brightening and Secret Camouflage to cover blemishes and imperfections, along with Mineral Pressed Powder to finish and set the look. For flawless application, this palette comes with a travel-friendly Secret Camouflage brush, a double-sided sponge, and tips and techniques in a step-by-step instructional insert. The one I have to give away is Nude. It says it's for fair to light skin tones. I'd say fair to light-medium.

The Flawless Face Book Portable Complexion Palette In Nude comes with these products in the case.

• Tinted Moisturizer Crème Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen in Nude Secret Concealer #2
• Secret Camouflage SC-2
• Mineral Pressed Powder in Real Sand
• Travel-size Secret Camouflage brush
• Double-sided sponge
• Instructions

I can't guarantee, but I suspect that if Sand or Tan is the better kit for you, you might be able to swap it out at Sephora. That's where I purchased this giveaway prize.

How can you enter to win this giveaway contest (technically a sweepstakes)? Just leave a comment on this feature (not in another BTiB post). After you comment here, feel free to send me an e-mail at bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com (the contest address, not my "personal" e-mail) and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing an e-mail address you care about on a blog, so feel free to follow this step (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment). Please make sure I have your e-mail. If I can't notify you, you can't win - even if your number is drawn. I can't believe the number of winners I haven't been able to find in the past.

You can earn extra entries. Follow this blog (through an e-mail subscription, GFC, or though one of the many Google readers - see sidebar at right) to earn a second entry. If you are a follower, it would help me tally entries if you tell me in your comment how you follow. You don't have to follow to enter. I want everyone to have a chance, but I also want to reward my followers. I must be able to track this entry.

You can earn a third entry by tweeting this contest. You must include "@BTiBeauty" (without the quotes) and the contest title in your tweet. Remember, tweet the contest title - if you don't, that entry won't count. I will tweet the contest early this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry - if that's easier.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, December 1, at midnight. The next morning, I will use a random number generator (random.org) to select the winner. I will e-mail the winner on Sunday morning. The winner will have 48 hours to reply to my message and provide a shipping address. After 48 hours, the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. Make sure to check your e-mail - and look in your spam folder - when the contest ends.

This contest is open to anyone anywhere. Here are the terms. I will carefully pack and ship the prize (as I always do). I cannot insure the prize for overseas shipment - it's amazingly expensive to do so because of the way I have to send insured mail. If it's lost or stolen in transit, I may not be able to replace it with another prize just like it. I'll do my best on this end; let's see if your mail service does right by you on the other end if we have an overseas winner.

The winner must be able to provide me with a "mailable address," meaning the U.S. Post Office recognizes it or its street, province, and other "elements" the way the winner provides them. I've had some trouble with both U.S. and international addresses lately.

For all the legalese related to this contest, please see the Contests/Sweepstakes page at the top of the blog. Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

M·A·C Glamour Daze Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb

Seriously? This is sold out? Now you know why I seldom feature M·A·C Cosmetics. I received this a few weeks ago, forgot to feature it, and now it's sold out online at Nordstrom and M·A·C. I'll bet you can find one in one of the stores if you're persistent. You'll have to be fast too. I found Superb available at Belk. Go!

As a necessary aside, there are other reasons I don't usually feature M·A·C. By the time the bloggers who feature M·A·C everything are finished, you seem to find the features boring. That's what my numbers tell me. Additionally, a lot of the makeup is too too for me. Anyone over 40 will understand what I mean by too too. Even so, now and then, M·A·C introduces one of those "to die for" products, and I jump.

I ordered M·A·C's Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb ($29) from the Glamour DazeCollection because I absolutely love M·A·C's Skinfinish products. I've never purchased one that disappointed me. In this case, Superb gave me a buyer's high when it arrived - ordered sight unseen.

Did I know it was going to be rose gold? Nope. I knew it would be a liquid-powder highlighter with prismatic reflections that sculpts, highlights, and models the face. The cool, creamy near-fluid formula creates a luminous, well-defined finish. Wears 10 hours. In limited-edition Glamour Daze packaging. That was its description.

I took swatch photos outside in the windy cold today. It's a good thing I didn't have goosebumps. I saw every hair on my arm sticking straight out. I swatched at the top of my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator, and I used a kabuki brush for the larger swatch below.

This illuminating powder is stunning in color, and it applies beautifully. I don't really get the near-fluid formula description - it's a creamy powder that adheres nicely. What makes it spectacular is its color.

I'm a rose gold addict, and I'm thrilled to have this new one in my collection. I hope you can find M·A·C's Glamour Daze Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb. It's worth the hunt.

Photo at top courtesy of M·A·C; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Marc Anthony Oil Of Morocco Argan Oil Shampoo

Knowing how popular argan oil is, I've tried and tried to find argan oil products to use on my hair. Given how fine my hair is, something has always been wrong with them. They would be too heavy, or the in the case of one hair spray, too fragranced. Then, out of the blue, Marc Anthony sent me his Aragan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner. I'm smitten! It took Marc Anthony to unwrap argan oil's secrets for me.

“We often look to beauty secrets of the past as inspiration for today. One of the greatest ancestral beauty secrets comes from Morocco - Argan Oil. It is really a 'super oil’ because it has so many benefits: strengthening, moisturizing, shine, damage relief, and the list goes on. When you buy Argan Oil for your hair you’re getting one of the best natural resources for healthy looking hair,” says Marc Anthony's team.

Argan oil is the foundation for Anthony's Oil of Morocco Collection. The powerful Moroccan oil, with an added boost of strengthening keratin, has been infused into each product to create a full system for high moisture and unbeatable strength. It starts with your wash to rid hair of impurities while gently moisturizing; then to your condition for super hydration, shine, and restoration. Finally a daily lightweight oil treatment to impart strength, add shine, and control frizz. 

Everything claimed is true, but there's more. Argan Oil Shampoo ($7.99) is contains the argan oil and keratin, but also grape seed oil. The sulfate-free shampoo lathers nicely and cleans thoroughly. It smells fresh and nice without any overt perfume scent.

The Arman Oil Conditioner ($7.99), containing the same treatment ingredients, seals the deal. I have a hard time finding conditioners that condition my hair well, leaving it shiny and bouncy, without weighing it down. Any hair products that are heavy leave my hair limp. If I try lightweight conditioners, I find they won't detangle my hair after a vigorous wash. I can rely on this duo to leave my with clean hair, and easy comb out, and two full days of life and volume. How great is that?

Check out this link for retailers. Supposedly, Marc Anthony's hair products are available at CVS, but I've never seen them here. I will look more thoroughly, particularly at Ulta. If they aren't there, I will most likely restock at drugstore.com, one of my favorites.

Photo courtesy of Marc Anthony

The Friday Forum - November 23

Holy moly! It's Friday, and I completely forgot about it. How could I? After all, I can't count the number of times I've heard the day named "Black Friday" over the last few days.

Did you go shopping at midnight? Crack of dawn? Before the regular store openings? I was safely doing normal things, like reading the paper, having a Sunday breakfast out on Friday, napping with Charlie - all my usual luxuries. Now, in just a few minutes, I must leave for my annual physical exam. What fun.

The sun is shining. I'd much rather be taking photos of makeup outdoors. When I get back, if I want photos, I won't have much sun time left in the day. The photos may have to wait until tomorrow.

I'm bummed that UPS is not delivering today. Those hard-working guys (and gals) are getting a much-deserved day off, so I'm glad for them. They will more than make up for the day off over the next month when they work extra hard to deliver all those holiday orders.

Thanksgiving dinner yesterday was nice. Trader Joe's was responsible for most of the cooking, and they did an excellent job. I had to go to sleep very early. The turkey and Cakebread coma got the best of me.

How about you? If you celebrated Thanksgiving, what did you do? Were you out bargain shopping this morning? Let us know what's up in your life.

Let's talk about your week of beauty. It's time for the Friday Forum, our open chat. I love this part of our week. Have you selected your favorite holiday collection - and purchased a few new treasures? What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.

This week's giveaway contest is drawing lots of entries. It's a nice one: Sephora Favorites Super Stars Beauty Essentials. Make sure to put your name in the hat by commenting before midnight tomorrow, Sunday, November 24.

Photo courtesy of Forbes.com

Happy Thanksgiving Redux

This has been shared all over Facebook today. It's so cute I wanted to share it with you. Courtesy of Positively Toolbox. Figure out that name.

Can you imagine getting four cats to do this?

Enjoy your day! I'm watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Silly, mindless pleasure - a tradition.

Photo courtesy of Positively Toolbox

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This year we have a lot to celebrate. Most of us. As we celebrate our holiday tomorrow, I'll be thinking about my blessings. I'm not as excited about a big meal as I am about having a Mom who is hanging in there (quite well lately), my 11-year-old baby Charlie, and a job. Yes, I think that those of us who have jobs should feel fortunate. I'm also grateful to have wonderful friends.

I'll be thinking about all of the people who lost their family members, homes, and possessions - basically everything - during Superstorm Sandy. I wish I could do more than just give money. If I were in the devastated areas, you can bet I'd be volunteering at the shelters for pets and giving away all the clothing I never wear. Kudos to Rachael Ray, who donated $500,000 to the ASPCA to open an emergency boarding facility for New York City pets displaced by Sandy - and to the many volunteers who continue to pour into the hard-hit areas to donate labor, materials, and the basics of life.

I'm also thankful for my wonderful readers - you. I hope you have a wonderful day and a safe weekend. 

Photo source at top lost; bottom photo courtesy of xrlq.com - click on it to enlarge and see that cat's gaze!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

It's the time again - the day when the brave venture out to mingle with (I call it get crushed by) other shoppers to find the deals. I get press releases every day and, unfortunately, don't have time to pass along the information. There aren't enough hours in my day. Black Friday is special, though, so I wanted to share just a few of the deals with you - in case you'll be armchair shopping along with me.

Bobbi Brown has a nice online offer. Beginning today, Wednesday, November 21, enjoy a beauty trio of deluxe-sized samples, free shipping, AND a specially sized lip gloss with every purchase through Sunday, November 25.  Then, on Monday, November 26, Bobbi Brown will celebrate Cyber Monday by offering five samples of your choice and free shipping with any order. I've got everything, but that kind of offer inspires me to buy more.

Between Thanksgiving Day and November 26, Votre Vu is offering free shipping with every purchase and a free Eiffel Powder Mascara is purchases of $100 or more. I'd like to have a Vu-On Rouge sheer, moisturizing cream blush.

New London Pharmacy, a great source for fragrance and all things beauty, is offering free shipping on all orders from November 22 to 26. Check out the Web site for other specials.

Like free money? If you shop at Beautyhabit between now and November 25, you will earn $20 in Beauty Bucks for every $50 you spend. I now wish to kick myself for placing two large orders in the last week or so. Your Beauty Bucks will be mailed after your order ships. When you shop at Beautyhabit over the weekend, you'll enjoy free ground shipping if you use the code THANKFUL. Just make sure to order before November 25 ends. If you haven't purchased Chantecaille's holiday collection, you can order it now and earn Beauty Bucks to spend later.

I can't being to sort through all the offers in my inbox. These are great. When I receive more that are noteworthy, I'll append them to this feature.

Just got an e-mail from Chantecaille. Click on the photo to see the deal. I guess I'll have four - not the current three - Les Pétales de Rose.

Update Black Friday: There are so many offers in my inbox, I cannot even begin to list them all here. I hope you are registered at your favorite beauty sites. If not, go browse anyhow. Most of the offers are open to everyone.

Photos courtesy of the brands

IT Cosmetics Hello Light Powder Illuminizer

My love affair with IT continues. Hello Light Powder Illuminizer ($24) grabbed my attention with its description, which left me with a "wow." Then I applied it. That elicited a double wow.

Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder With Hydrolyzed Collagen, Peptides, and Drops of Light Technology

How could something so pretty offer my skin such a bounty?  Even though IT Cosmetics says Hello Light is a colorless, translucent powder, on my skin it's a subtle golden illuminating sheen - much more exciting than colorless powder.

Natural radiance and a youthful, vitality-filled glow are just an airbrush away. An anti-aging powerhouse for naturally pretty, lit-from-within skin, this innovative formula is all about the look of vitality, radiance, and illumination without glitter or shimmer. The formula is infused with micronized pigments of light, plus skin-loving ingredients including peptides, hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, silk, and vitamins A, C, & E. It's free of all of the ingredients that make skin appear older or caked, such as talc.

Antioxidants hydrate, condition, and nourish your skin while warding off free radicals all day long. Even better for anyone who has combo or oily skin, the Hello Light Illuminating Powder absorbs oil and shine while blurring away the look of pores, and fine lines without settling in them. This powder is a perfect finishing step for the look of lift and illumination. The convenient compact makes it easy for you to brighten, hydrate, and awaken your skin all day long. You know how we get the drabs around 3:00.

I took photos of the powder in full sunlight. I swatched heavily at the top of my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator,and then I applied the larger swatch with a kabuki brush (the larger swatch wasn't particularly heavy). With all due respect to my friends at IT Cosmetics, you'll see that Hello Light is anything but colorless. Check out my arm and you'll see the kind of divine glow this power provides.

Without any shimmer or glitter - as advertised - it lights up my face. The gold gives me warmth at a perfect time of year. I imagine it will do the same for those with warm-toned complexions, adding its golden glow.

It is translucent. You can see the always-clear veins in my skinny arms, but you can see the sheen it adds. No offense to the lovely reader who suggested in an e-mail that I might use the part of my arm closer to my elbow, like Karla Sugar used for swatches, to hide my veins. My arms look like this all the way to my elbow - a nurse's dream. They look like toothpicks. Sorry, gals, I just don't have enough flesh. I try to eat enough so that I don't look skeletal. Actually, I need to do some exercise for my abs, but I have no energy after dragging my bad knee and back around all day.

Enough about me. I love this illuminating powder! I have tested three of the products IT Cosmetics sent me, and I love all three. How on earth did I overlook IT for so long? I know you think, as I do, that beauty bloggers should be intimately familiar with all brands, so how could I have been "aware" of IT without realizing that the company makes fabulous makeup at an equally fabulous price point. I hear something new is in the mail to me, and I can't wait to show you.

Did I tell you about IT?  IT Cosmetics works with leading plastic surgeons to infuse cutting-edge anti-aging technology into innovative, high-performance color cosmetics. A favorite line of both celebrities and beauty editors, IT Cosmetics has several award-winning products and has been featured in hundreds of leading magazines and television shows. Also, IT Cosmetics was honored with the much coveted 2011 Cosmetic Innovator of the Year Award for "Most Innovative Company" by ICMAD, along with several other prestigious awards and Editor's Pick honors at leading prestige beauty magazines. Even more exciting, IT has partnered with the American Cancer Society’s Look Good, Feel Better program, and for every Brow Power pencil sold, one is donated to the LGFB program, to help women face the effects of Cancer with confidence. Their philanthropy makes me even more excited to explore their brand.

I don't usually assign scores to makeup - opinions are so subjective - but if I were to give Hello Light Powder Illuminizer a score, it would be an A+. Now, if you will excuse me, I have to go outside and convince a woodpecker that the trim on my house is not fair game.

Photo at top courtesy of IT Cosmetics; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Tarte Gifts From The Lipstick Tree Achiote Color Collection

Tarte's Gifts From The Lipstick Tree Achiote Color Collection ($42) caught my eye during Sephora's V.I.B. sale. It caught my credit card too. The achiote-infused blush and lip tint trio arrived and rewarded me for ordering it.

Get a healthy dose of color with this blush and lip trio infused with pigments and ingredients derived from the Amazon. Tarte’s most recent finding from their rain forest travels is achiote, a secret amongst Brazil’s beautiful women, is known for the honeysuckle shade produced from the seeds of the fruit it bears. With natural pigments derived from this “lipstick tree,” the warm, shimmering golden pink shade is universally flattering.

This three-piece set of beautifully coordinated includes:

• 0.10 oz LipSurgence Natural Lip Luster in Achiote (shimmering golden pink),
• 0.2 oz Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Achiote, and
• 0.12 oz Maracuja Divine Shine Lip Gloss in Achiote.

I took swatch photos in full sun. I used a sponge-tipped applicator to apply the blush heavily at the top of my arm. I applied the two lip products straight from their tubes. The Maracuja Divine Shine Lip Gloss must be primed by clicking to drive the product up into the blush. I was afraid my thumb muscle would be irritated from all the clicking. It took way over 50 clicks to prime the brush. I think that's extreme. Of course, it has nothing to do with the gorgeous color.

The pink-peach Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Achiote at the top of my arm will add warmth - a much needed addition for many of us in the winter months. The LipSurgence Natural Lip Luster in Achiote, shown in the middle, is drop-dead gorgeous. More pink than peach, it adds a shiny warmth that's lip luscious.

My delight continued when I finally forced the Maracuja Divine Shine Lip Gloss in Achiote into the brush so that I could try it. The coral shade, the bottom swatch, looks great with my cool-toned skin. This coral has enough pink in it that it's extremely flattering. Gals with warm-toned skin will find it a natural.

I'd recommend this set to anyone. If you weren't scouring Sephora for bargains during the sale, you'll have to pay full price now. I think it's worth it.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty